Almost Perfect Parent

Inexpensive ways to clean

2010-06-29T08:46:00.000-07:00

Found this on my yahoo site, thought it tied in to my post a last week. Great stuff!
Clothing

1. Remove red wine stains. Saturate the stain with table salt ASAP and let it sit for a couple of hours, then wash in cold water. Another trick is to pour some white wine on the stain and wash accordingly.
2. Remove coffee stains. Scrub the stain with baking soda paste. To make baking soda paste, just mix baking soda and water.
3. Remove grease/oil stains. Blot the stain with dishwashing detergent. If the stain has soaked in, mix one part vinegar with two parts water to make an all-natural cleaner. Apply to the stain and wash. By the way, did you know vinegar can replace 30 household products?
4. Remove ink stains. Spray the stain with hairspray or rubbing alcohol and blot the area. Repeat until most of the stain is gone, then wash.
5. Remove lipstick stains. Treat lipstick stains the same way as ink stains (spray-blot-repeat), but follow up by scrubbing with dishwashing soap. FYI, your top of the line lipstick will be more difficult to remove because of the greater depth of pigments.
6. Remove blood stains. First, make sure your stained item doesn’t bleach out. Then, pour some regular, drugstore hydrogen peroxide and let it soak before washing it in cold water.
7. Remove body odor. Spray the problem area (usually the armpits) with a 50/50 dilution of alcohol and water, and then hang it up to line dry. You want to kill the bacteria without damaging the garment.
8. Remove moth ball odor. Try dry-hanging your clothes out in the sun first. If the moth ball smell doesn’t dissipate, seal your clothes in a plastic bag with some dryer sheets or dry lavender, a natural moth repellant. So the next time you put your clothes into storage, use dry lavender instead of moth balls. These methods are safe to use on 100 percent cotton or cotton/synthetic blends, but not all of them are applicable to all fabrics. For more comprehensive tips, check out Cornell's stain removal guide and 16 ways to make your clothes last longer.
[See 20 Things You Should Never Buy Used]
Carpets and Floors
9. Clean mud off carpet. Let the mud dry completely, then remove as much as possible with a knife. Mix one quart of water with one-quarter teaspoon of hand or dish soap. (Make sure the soap doesn’t contain bleach of lanolin.) Pour the solution into a spray bottle: spray, rub, blot.
10. Remove rust stains off carpet. Mix vinegar and water in a spray bottle, spray the solution onto the stain, and let it sit for a few minutes. Clean the area with a brush or sponge using warm, soapy water. For really tough stains, spray on a good amount of lemon juice (but don’t wet the padding underneath), let it sit for five to six minutes, and blot with a paper towel.
11. Remove grease/oil stains off carpet. Remove as much as possible with a knife and blotting. Pour rubbing alcohol onto a clean white cloth (or white paper towels). Blot until the stain is removed. If the stain is small, be sure to blot in one direction only so the stain doesn’t spread.
12. Clean wood laminate floors. Sweep up the loose stuff first. Then, add two to four tablespoons of vinegar to a small bucket of warm water. Wet two terry cloths in the solution, wring them out, and lay them flat on the floor. Step on the cloths and walk across the floor in sweeping motions and scrubbing with your toes where necessary. Let it air dry or walk on microfiber towels.
More Cleaning Tips
13. Clean the stovetop. Boil water in a kettle. Dribble a very shallow layer of water over the entire stovetop and it sit for about five minutes. Scrub, wipe with soap, and rinse. This method may not work for all stoves. If you own a ceramic or induction stove, be sure to check the instruction manual and other documents.
14. Clean grill racks. Heat up the grill until it’s super hot to make it easier to scrap off the clumps. Cut an onion in half and attach the round end of a half-onion to a fork. Point the flat side of the onion facedown and rub the grate.
15. Clean windows. Make a cleaner by mixing three teaspoons of vinegar to one quart of warm water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and spray onto the glass, wiping it dry with crumpled newspapers. To prevent streaking, don’t clean while the sun is on the window.
16. Remove crayon marks off painted walls. Apply baking soda paste onto the crayon mark, rub gently with a clean cloth, and wipe clean. If that doesn’t work, you can also rinse the area with a sponge soaked in liquid dish soap and water, then scrub in a circular motion. Be sure to first test the cleaner on an inconspicuous spot (like near a corner or behind a door).
17. Remove mildew smell from towels. Put the towels into a washing machine and add one or two cups of white vinegar. (Don’t add any other products at this time.) Run the washer using the hottest water setting available. When it’s done, leave the towels inside and wash them again at the hottest water setting -- this time with laundry soap (but no fabric softener or other products). Dry the towels in a dryer using the high heat setting. If the towels aren’t completely dry, run the dryer again, or hang them up outside in the sunlight.
18. Clean vinyl or plastic shower curtains. Take off the rings and put the curtains in a washing machine. Add one cup of bleach, one cup of detergent, and a few dirty towels to help scrub off the soap scum. Run the washer on the gentle cycle with either warm or hot water. Right after the spin cycle, take the curtains of the washer, shake it out gently, and let it drip dry. Don’t worry about the wrinkles: Hot steam from a couple of showers (plus gravity) will smooth out your curtains in a day.
19. Clean soap scum. For the soap scum buildup in your bath and shower area, spray it with vinegar and wipe off with a damp sponge. You can also sprinkle baking soda, borax, or powder laundry detergent onto a damp sponge and scrub.
20. Clean cloudy glassware. To remove hard water deposits, scrub cheap, white toothpaste all over the glass and rinse thoroughly.

Fourth of July Bubble Wands

2010-06-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

Great Idea From Better Homes and Gardens!

Display in a pot with flags until ready to use.

What You Need:

Star-shape cookie cutter
40-inch piece of 20-gauge wire
Wire cutters
Electric drill
Spray paint in desired color

Use different sized cookie cutters
for variety.

Instructions:

1. Fold a 40-inch piece of wire in half. Starting at one point of the star, bend the wire around the cookie cutter to form the star outline. When the wire meets, twist to secure.
2. Straighten the ends of the wire and trim them with wire cutters to make them an even length.
3. Insert the trimmed ends into the chuck on an electric drill and tighten the chuck. Hold the wire taut and rotate the drill until the wire is twisted to the desired tightness.
4. Loosen the chuck and remove the wire. Trim the ends again.
5. Carefully remove the star from the cookie cutter. Spray-paint the star. Let the paint dry.

More Ideas:

Decorate your deck for the Fourth of July with the wands.
Transform the bubble wands into napkin holders by wrapping the handle around an empty paper towel tube to make a ring.
Wrap the containers of bubble liquid in red and blue construction paper to complete the holiday atmosphere.

2010-06-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you to my very good friend Kristen at her Blog for this info!

White Cane Glimmer Sugar Scrub

1 cup - Domino® Granulated Sugar
1 cup - vegetable oil
Oil from 1 vitamin E capsule
1 or 2 drops - of essential oil, lavender or orange
1 16oz. - glass container with lid

Combine all of the ingredients in a medium bowl until well blended. Using a spatula, transfer mix into the container and secure lid. Contents will settle, mix before using. Scoop a teaspoon or two of the scrub on your hands and gently massage in circular motions onto your skin. Leave on for 3 to 4 minutes before thoroughly rinsing. The scrub will tighten on your skin.

Home Made Houshold and Beauty Products!

2010-06-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Tara and her Blog! She has some GREAT Ideas for home made cleaning and household products!

Health & Beauty

Face Wash: I have this split between two small bottles. One stays in the shower, one stays on my counter. I also just bought regular unsalted almonds and put them through my food processor.
-3 oz honey (cleanses) -4 oz finely ground almonds (gentle exfoliant) -2 oz apple cider vinegar (toner) -2 oz water -6 drops Lavender Essential Oils (anti-aging and anti-acne)

Face Lotion: Apricot Kernel Oil after washing my face. Extra Virgin Coconut Oil any other time.

Body Lotion: EV Coconut Oil. I've never really been a regular body lotion user, because I hate the feel of lotion, but I love how coconut oil makes my skin feel!

Deodorant: Instructions from this blog. Super easy, though is quite the work out, haha. Works really well.

Toothpaste: Currently not crunchy! Thinking about using just plain baking soda once the tube I have runs out. I'm open to suggestions, lol. Prefer homemade and simple, over organic store bought products.

Hair spray: I use the water and sugar recipe from this blog. And, yes, it really does work!

Household

All Purpose Cleaner: The bigger the spray bottle, the more EO you need to use.

-1 part water

-1 part white vinegar

-20-30 drops of EO (I used lemon)

Disinfectant: Smells great! Love using it.

-2 cups water

-1/4 cup white vinegar

-1/4 tsp Lavender EO

-1/4 tsp Tea Tree Oil

Carpet cleaner(spot cleaning): Spray the following combo, let sit for a few minutes. Follow up with a sponge or brush and soapy water. Works every time:). This spray can also be used when cleaning your veggies.

-1 part water

-1 part white vinegar

Toilet bowl cleaner: I sprinkle 1/4 cup of baking soda all over the inside of the toilet, and follow with 1 cup of vinegar. Let fizz for awhile and follow with just the toilet brush.

Dishwasher detergent: Love this one! Have it in a container and just scoop it in. Recipe says to use 1 tbsp per load, but I fill my detergent cup.

-1 cup Borax (find in laundry aisle)

-1 cup baking soda

-1/4 cup salt (I used sea salt)

-1/4 cup citric acid (2 unsweetened lemonade kool aid packets work)

Home Made Laundry Soap!

2010-04-23T09:35:00.000-07:00

Hello All! Long time no post! SORRY! It has been a little crazy here in the Deno household! I am hoping to get on here a bit more regular.

I have had some requests lately about what recipe we use to make our own laundry detergent. We literally spend about $8.00 a YEAR on our laundry detergent, so it is very worth sharing! I get our recipe from The Grocery Chart Challenge, a GREAT blog!

Homemade Laundry Detergent

I double this recipe and make it in a 5 gallon bucket but I'm going to post the original recipe and you are welcome to double it on your own if you like.

What you'll need...

1/3 bar of Fels Naptha soap
1/2 cup Borax powder
1/2 cup Arm and Hammer Washing Soda
a bucket
water

(If you live in my area, the ONLY place I've been able to find all the ingredients is at Meijer.)First, grate 1/3 of the soap and put it into a saucepan. (I use my food processor to grate it finely so it melts quicker.)

Add 6 cups of water and heat until the soap melts.
Add the washing soda and borax, stirring until it is dissolved.

Pour 4 cups hot tap water into your bucket.

Add your soap mixture and stir it together.

Add another 22 cups of water and stir to combine.

Let the soap cool and set up for about 12-24 hours. The finished product jells up. It won't have a normal consistency. Part of it will be like jello and part will remain liquid. It's all the same thing and dissolves in the laundry tub. No need to try and break it up.
Each load takes about 1/2 cup of laundry soap.
And to let you know the purpose of each ingredient....
Borax cleans, deodorizes, disinfects and softens the water.
Washing soda cuts grease and neutralizes odors.
Fels Naptha is a stain remover.

Make Your Own Reusable Produce Bags!

2010-01-12T17:27:00.000-08:00

What a simple idea! I believe we all need to try to make little steps to try to save the world. Because all those little steps make a big difference! Check out Smashed Peas and Carrots, she has a great tutorial on how to make you own reusable produce bags!

-Mary

I need to find my camera!

2010-01-12T07:54:00.000-08:00

Am I the only person who loses there camera as much as I lose my mind? I mean seriously, I have 3 kids a big family, activities and a blog site. I REALLY need to keep track of the thing. I have a whole bunch of tutorials on there and ones I need to create, and my lack of equipment is keeping me back! AArrrgghh!

Tutorials you will be seeing once I find my camera:
-Making Stock
-Kneading Bread
-My Story Stones
-Turning an old sweater into a scarf
-Making leg warmers for the home

So that's the plan! It will be Chris and my mission tomorrow to find it. Woke up with a killer sinus infection today, so not sure if much will get done.
Have an awesome day!
-Mary

Baking Bread

2010-01-11T13:23:00.000-08:00

IN my attempt to eat cleaner and saving a buck, I have tried to take on the task of making my own multi grain bread....

Seriously...

Crazy right?! Well, it IS super easy and yummy, but I never thought I would ever become this frugal! We will be using the bread for morning toast, sandwiches, and dinner. I have made 2 batches so far (4 loaves) and a couple things I have discovered:

1) Kneading bread and hitting it is an AWESOME feeling!
2) I REALLY need to get more bread pans, so I don't have to start all over to make another batch.

Well, here the recipe I use, it is from my absolute favorite cook book, Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook. And lucky me, its not found online, so for YOU, I will type it!

Mixed Grain Bread

3 1/2 to 4 Cups All purpose Flour
2 Packages Active Dry Yeast
1 1/2 Cups Milk
3/4 Cup water
1/2 cup cracked wheat (check you farmers market for this, you can get it pretty darn cheap)
1/2 Cup Cornmeal
1/2 Cup Packed Brown Sugar
3 Tablespoons cooking oil
1 1/2 Teaspoon salt
1 1/2 Cups Whole Wheat Flour
1/2 Cup Rolled Oats (Side note here: you can use ANY oatmeal from the large tubular container...I didn't know that! I looked it up.)

In a large mixing bowl put in 2 of the cups of flour and the yeast. In a pot add: Milk, water, cracked wheat, cornmeal, brown sugar, oil and salt. Bring to warm, NOT even close to boiling, you just need it pretty warm to activate the yeast. Pour contents in the mixing bowl, mix on low 30 seconds, use wood or plastic spoon to scrape side (did you know you should NOT use metal spoons on metal pans?!? It gives a metallic taste, just learned this). Then turn on high speed for three minutes. After stir in whole wheat flour, oats and another cup of flour. Transfer mixer on to a lightly floured surface.

What I do when kneading bread:
I lay on lightly floured surface, sprinkle flour on top, then massage the bread (ooo lala!). You will keep adding flour until the dough stops sticking to your hands, that's when you know its done! Just be sure the dough is an even consistency. (EASY huh?) Them slap the dough a couple of times (ok, maybe not nessasary, but so fun!).

Put the dough in a ball and put it into a lightly oiled bowl, flip dough around and cover with towel (the point here is to let the ball get oil on top and bottom). Put in warm place for about an hour, should double-ish in size.

Punch the dough down with fists, and flip onto floured surface, divide in half, cover with towel and let rest for 10 minutes. Lightly grease 2 8x4x2 inch loaf pans.

Shape the dough in a cylinder shape and make fit in loaf pans. Cover. let rise in warm place for another 30 minutes.

Spray or sprinkle tops of loaves with water, sprinkle with oats, and put in 375 degree oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until they sound hollow when tapped on. I also spray about 2 more time quickly during baking time, I find it makes the crust crunchy.

Enjoy!

On a side note, whole wheat bread with grains will be a bit more dense and will not rise as much due to the lack of gluten. Just FYI
-Mary

Julie/Julia Project

2010-01-10T18:47:00.000-08:00

Tonight I watched Julie and Julia. And as I sat there watching the awesome movie, the story about a gal cooking and blogging through Julia Childs' Cookbook," Mastering the Art of French Cooking ", I have become thankful of my blog here. Sometimes I wonder to myself, "Does anyone read this stuff?" or "Am I even helping anyone" or "Does anyone CARE?" Well, as much as I hope you do, I just love the info I am getting from this. I pay more attention to fashion, cooking, crafts, and my kids and husband much more. I try to learn things about them, look things up, and I blog about them. Sometimes I am sure I may come across as a hoity-toity know it all, (or maybe I just FEEL like that!) but chances are, I probably JUST read it or saw it somewhere and then blogged about it. And BOY does writing this stuff such a destresser! I really think this blog is helping my stress level and keeping me calm and stationary. And THAT in itself is amazing since, well, I'm a pretty darn busy gal! So, if you have read this far, I would really like to encourage you to a) watch the movie, and b) START a blog! Or a paint a picture, cook a meal, hit a ball. What ever floats your boat, and do it not for them, but for yourself!

Also, I found the blog which the movie is based off of, check it out! The Julie/Juliet Project.

Thanks All!
-Mary

Spring 2010 Fashion Trends

2010-01-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

Yes, I just Copy and pasted this from here, and it was really fun to see these! Thought they would bring a good laugh! Will I follow most of them? No, probably not. Seriously...who is going to leave the house with bunny ears on? Not this gal! But more power to ya if you can pull it off! Also, please check out a previous post HERE about great, CLASSIC fashion for any body type!

Spring/Summer 2010 Clothes: Key Looks

Hot pants & boy shorts

If ever there was a time to hit the gym, it's this Spring. Hemlines have crept up to shorter than short; in fact reaching the negative. Hot pants, boy shorts, and tap pants are all variations on this shorter-than-short style, which in many cases reveal more than just one's legs. Click to read more about the hot pants trend.

Knee high & over the knee socks

Knee high socks - as well as over-the-knee and thigh high socks - are back as a trend, and the options on how to wear them are many. From the sporty to the sparkly, to layerings of socks over tights; a great pair of socks can add volumes to an outfit. Click to read more about the knee high socks trend and how to wear it.

Future warrior

The military and tribal trends collide to become this fierce fashion trend. Ancient civilisations come to life in leather tunics, metal plating, and war paint. Unequivocally fearless and with room for endless creativity, the main criteria for the modern warrior is confidence. Click to read more about the warrior trend.

High dress splits

How to pull off the ultimate in sexy without reaching for the micro-mini? Add a long dress with a high split to your Spring wardrobe. From Versace's knock-out gowns to Lanvin's elegantly draping numbers, we look at numerous ways to rock a high dress split. Click to read more about the high dress splits trend.

2010 Bikinis and swimwear

Find out what swimwear you'll be wearing when you hit the beach this Summer with our Bikinis 2009/2010 trends guide. Which monikinis should you be wearing? And what style of bikinis? And which designer is making the sexiest, must-have pieces? Click to read more about the hottest swimwear and bikini styles.

Sportswear: sporty clothing

Sportswear takes on a whole new level of cool when it hits trend status in 2010. Football inspirations turn tomboy chic to sexy yet effortless looks; while Bond girl scuba inspired clothing is the pinnacle of sporty bombshell. Dance and 20s inspired tennis looks also feature in our comprehensive look at sporty clothing in 2010. Click for more on sportswear fashion.

Jumpsuits & playsuits

Every so often, one-piece styles of clothing have a revival. What started with bodysuits and leotards is now becoming a fully-fledged trend towards jumpsuits, playsuits, and rompers. As a unique style for Spring 2010, they won't be for everyone, but they will offer more options than you'd think. Click to read more about the jumpsuits and playsuits trend.

Patterned & printed pants

No longer must we stick to boring block colours on our lower half, for all varieties of printed pants have made their way onto the Spring runways. Whether floral, striped, abstract, bold or subdued... patterns on pants are giving us new bold wardrobe options for the warmer months. Click to read more about the printed pants trend.

See-through and sheer fabrics trend

In Spring and Summer fashion tends to get a little more revealing; we blame it on the heat, and one's desire to show off. So in 2009 turn to the sheer / see-through trend to keep you cool yet sexy. 2009/2010's sheer pieces are a mixture of the soft and feminine, to the opposite extremes of the hardcore sex-kitten. Click for more on the see-through/sheer/nude fashion trend.

Boyfriend blazers

Continuing to be a wardrobe staple for Spring/Summer 2010, the "boyfriend" blazer is a simple way to look chic whether on a fresh Spring day or mild a Summer's night. A slightly oversized jacket or blazer, sleeves rolled up, is the pinnacle of relaxed cool. Click to read more about the boyfriend blazer trend and how to wear it.

Bunny ears

Headbands take a quirky turn with this unique micro-trend. Bunny ears, Mickey Mouse ears, and oversized bows are all styles which fit this vintage-sex-kitten meets sugar sweet girl-next-door look. This trend is a definite favourite for editorials and shoots; but that doesn't mean it can't work on the streets. Click to read more about the bunny ears trend.

Women's Denim Jean Fashion Trends for Spring/Summer 2010

Ripped jeans and torn denim trend

Just when you thought they would never return... ripped jeans are back. Starting in 2008 with a horde of sexed-up editorial shoots and celebrity sightings, those torn denim shorts and shredded jeans are hitting the streets. Ripped denim in 2009 is certainly sexy and revealing - possibly more than ever. Click here to read more on the 2009 take on ripped denim.

Patched jeans

We've seen jeans go from ripped to torn to downright shredded; so what can you possibly do next? Patch them of course! It's not for everyone, but its an option that's gaining traction. Patched jeans work well as skinnies, or try patched denim flares for a revival of 70s chic. Click to read more about the patched jeans trend.

Updated my blog!

2010-01-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

So it only took me HOURS! But I figured out how to add buttons and links. Turns out I was making it much harder than it should be! BIG surprise! I tend to over think things.

I won!

2010-01-09T12:19:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it?!? I am so happy! My Mama Made it had a giveaway and I entered and posted it on the blog as well, and I WON!! Thank You Alexis!

Snow Ice Cream

2010-01-08T17:21:00.000-08:00

Snow is driving me crazy...but what a fun way to make SOMETHING good out of it! Haha, check out the link to Lark Song Knits, Snow Ice Cream!

BEANS!

2010-01-08T16:59:00.000-08:00

"Beans, beans, the magical fruit...." remember that song, so inappropriate, yet so fun to sing! I want to talk a little bit about them, and how inexpensive they can be! I read awhile back about how much cheaper it is to buy dried beans than it is to buy them canned, and it makes them much healthier too, no preservatives, salt, or other additives. Really easy to do, I is soak the beans overnight, the next day I bring them up to boil then simmer and let them cook for about 40-90 minutes (depending on the bean) or until tender, like the consistency of the canned beans, not mushy. Be sure to stir often, to keep them from sticking. Don't cook them too long, or they will become too soft and you will be forced to make bean soup! I then drain and rinse them with cold water. I put them in freezer bags in 2 cup measurements, which is about the same amount as 2 cans of beans. I make sure to get as much as the air out as possible (I use Reynolds Handi Vac bags), mark what they are and the date, then freeze them flat. I then can pull them out to use whenever I want! The price difference? A can of kidney beans costs about 98 cents. A bag of dry kidney beans is about $1.47, it makes about 6 cans worth of beans! BIG price difference, and peace of mind of knowing whats in them!

Best Granola Bars EVER!

2010-01-07T08:15:00.000-08:00

So in my attempt to make my life simpler and cleaner, I am making a triple batch of granola bars and wheat bread. I have made the granola bars a couple of times, and oh my goodness, I can devour an entire pan! You SO cannot tell they are a good for you! Which is why I am making so much, I want to keep them in the house! I get the recipe from one of my favorite chefs, Alton Brown. Here it is!!

Ingredients

8 ounces old-fashioned rolled oats, approximately 2 cups
1 1/2 ounces raw sunflower seeds, approximately 1/2 cup
3 ounces sliced almonds, approximately 1 cup
1 1/2 ounces wheat germ, approximately 1/2 cup
6 ounces honey, approximately 1/2 cup
1 3/4 ounces dark brown sugar, approximately 1/4 cup packed
1-ounce unsalted butter, plus extra for pan
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
6 1/2 ounces chopped dried fruit, any combination of apricots, cherries or blueberries

Directions

Butter a 9 by 9-inch glass baking dish and set aside. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Spread the oats, sunflower seeds, almonds, and wheat germ onto a half-sheet pan. Place in the oven and toast for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

In the meantime, combine the honey, brown sugar, butter, extract and salt in a medium saucepan and place over medium heat. Cook until the brown sugar has completely dissolved.

Once the oat mixture is done, remove it from the oven and reduce the heat to 300 degrees F. Immediately add the oat mixture to the liquid mixture, add the dried fruit, and stir to combine. Turn mixture out into the prepared baking dish and press down, evenly distributing the mixture in the dish and place in the oven to bake for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely. Cut into squares and store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Another Giveaway, FREE Modge Podge Starter Set!

2010-01-03T08:05:00.000-08:00

So, one of my newest obsessions is Modge Podge, you can make ANYTHING with this stuff! I am working on Story Rocks from a previous post, and having so much fun! Want to win this starter set? Go Here!

Meal Planner

2010-01-03T07:42:00.000-08:00

(This is not my pantry, I WISH...)

So I am doing a pantry challenge and will be trying to clear my shelves and freezer. Today I cleaned my pantry and this week I MIGHT clean out my freezer, but I doubt it. Just not feelin' it! But I do need to go to the store to get some vegtables and fruit.

Sunday: Bean Soup and homemade bread, leftovers will be used on Tuesday

Monday: Pasta Bake and salad

Tuesday: Bean Burritos

Wednesday: Chili with enough for Friday's dinner, and homemade cornbread

Thursday: Tuna Noodle Cassorole

Friday: Taco Skillet (recipe below)

Taco Skillet:

Ingredients:

2 cups(ish) Leftover chili

2 cups (ish) noodles (I use whole wheat elbow usually)

2 1/2 - 3 TBS taco seasoning (or you can use packaged)

2 1/2-3 Cups Water

1-2 cups chedder cheese

Instructions:

In large pan, put chili, noodles, seasoning and water. Mix and bring to boil, cover, let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until noodles are tender, stir often to prevent sticking. Finish with cheese on top, enjoy!

Giveaway!!

2010-01-02T10:05:00.000-08:00

Wanna Win this Cape? I DO! Go check out My Mama Made It site and put in for her giveaway!

Easy Soup

2010-01-01T13:08:00.000-08:00

Well, today is the first day of 2010, and we have like 2 feet of snow outside! So today is a cuddle bunny-a-thon with Chris and the girls. I LOVE these days! I think tonight I will make some nice hot soup made out of whatever I have in the refridgerator and freezer. I love soup, I could live off just soup every meal. Chris, not so much, he is definatly a meat and potatoes guy, so is my middle daughter. But my eldest and the baby will eat up whatever soup, stew, or gumbo I mix up. Besides it being super yummy and satisfying, soup is super cheap! I had 6 kids in my family growing up, so my mom was a master of stretching a buck. She would make it often for dinner. I used to wonder how she worked her magic in the kitchen, but after a lot of practice and trial and error, I learned the ways of the stew pot! So here are some easy tips for make cheap and easy soup!

1) First, you need a base for the broth. You have a few different options here. You can make your own stock (recommended), you can use broth from a can or box, or you can use water and bouionne. Heat this up on medium while you prepare the other ingredients.

2) Next, you need a meat if you are makiing it with meat. If you are useing leftovers, just trim it and throw it in the broth. If you are useing fresh, chop it, then brown it in the pot with olive oil and salt and pepper. Then put inbroth.

3) All great and cheap soup needs a filler, so this is the grain you will be putting in. Macaroni, barley,potato and rice are all great. Or, you can put dumplings in at the end. You can either put the cooked grain in the broth, or you can cook it in the broth before you add the meat. To do this, put in number 5 below, bring the broth to boil then add the grain and cover. Cook about 20 minutes, depending on the grain.

4) Next is vegtable, a great basis for most soups is onion, carrots and celery. This trio is called a mirepoix (thats french!). I will saute the onion (and I add garlic) with the meat. I then put the chopped celery and carrot in broth to cook, depending on the size of the chop, it take about 45 minutes to get them soft. I also use frozenmixed vegtables often, becuase it is quite affordable and easy. It does not take long to cook, usually just needs warmed up.

5) Add salt and pepper and herbs. If it is chicken base, I add parsley and oregano. For beef base, I add bay leaf anf oregano. I also put in garlic and onion powder to either. I believe that herbs need at least 20 minutes to meld in a soup, and I bring it to boil first then bring to simmer.

Put lid on the pot and let the soup meld and warm. The meat is fine in the broth for awhile, just keep in mind that the grain and the vegetables might get mushy if they are cooked too long. So, if you want the broth to pick up the herbs more, cook the broth, meat and herbs before you add this stuff.

And that's it! Super yummy soup! There are so many different inventions you can make, and they (usually) always turn out still edible! have fun!

HAPPY NEW YEARS!

2009-12-31T07:52:00.000-08:00

Today is the day to do ALL the bad stuff you did you did in 2009 so you can start FRESH in 2010 RIGHT?!?! Blah! Man, if that truly was a tradition, could you imagine? People would have to lock their doors and hide! That is of course, if they didn't follow the tradition! You following me here? I'm glad someone is. Well, our family goals for 2010 are pretty normal and boring, but they work for us!

-Become debt free
-Build our Business
-Become more Homemade
-Become more Simple!

We want to keep our family strong, and our worries weak! Heres to hoping! What are some of your goals for 2010?

New Years Eve Ideas!

Check out these super Sassy ideas from Cathie Filan! Oh my goodness, SO CUTE!

New Years Eve Party Sign

New Years Party Hats

HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL!

-Mary

Story Stones

2009-12-28T12:19:00.000-08:00

Oh! I forgot to mention another craft I am working on in my sit down time. I got the idea for these story stones and I am so excited to make some for my girls at home! I think these will really help them create stories and explore their imagination. She did such a great job getting my ideas-a-rolin'! I am working on the 3 little pigs right now! Check out her etsy shop if you would like to purchase some of hers!

Creative week!

2009-12-28T08:49:00.000-08:00

I saw this color mobile and I just LOVE the simplicity of it! It is a great way to talk about colors with your kids and make your front or back porch look sophistcated at the same time! She mentions and I agree that this would look awesome with different shades of the same color, like blue or red. So simple!

I still need to go grocery shopping this week and get some things done for our business, but my head is just spinning! I might have to end up just getting creative with my meals. I have a book, 5 ingredients or less that really helps me to make simple meals. Plus I like to play my own version of chopped in my kitchen, which usually ends up with something edible. My husband is such a good sport about it! Anyone have any good recipes? Comment below!

Marshmallow Guns

2009-12-27T07:57:00.000-08:00

Making a Marshmallow Gun

Merry Christmas all! I hope all is well! We had a great time here, and we have more fun times coming this week!

My nephew is having his 12th birthday party today, and with all the costs of Christmas and my daughter's birthday (she is a Christmas Eve baby), the thought of spending a ton is daunting! So I came across this blog, that led to this blog that had info about making a marshmallow gun! How cool is that? It only requires a quick trip to the hardware store for pvc piping and accessories and a hand saw or pvc pipe cutter. Oh, and a bag of mini marshmallows. I made him 2 of them, so he can play with someone else or his brother, and they were VERY easy to make. Chris and I had a blast playing with them when we made them! (Sorry Joe). They do not come out too fast, so no injuries, and we made a rule that you must aim below the belt. The awesome news? Making 2 guns and 1 bag of mini marshmallows cost only...drum roll please...(cover your eyes Jen and Joey)...$4.38!!. I am so proud of myself! It is so hard to find a craft for boys, and this one was so cool! I will defiantly keep it on my list of quick and easy gifts!

Ideas to make Holiday cooking easier

2009-12-22T08:18:00.000-08:00

So Christmas is at my house this year, which is actually easier for us. This way, we don't have to track 3 young kids and their new "favorite" toys (all of them) to someones house, then do it again later that evening. But with that comes the dinner, which I am in charge of. Both my Chris and I come from big families, so we are quite used to entertaining the masses. So I came up with some ways to make it a bit easier on yourself and well, the loved ones around you too. Cause lets face it, no one likes a frazzled, stressed out maniac on the holidays.

1. Ask your loved ones to bring a dish to the event. This will take a ton off of your list. Even if it is someone who is not known as the "cook" (not calling anyone out here) can bring chips and dip or soda for the party.

2. Do as much done ahead of time as possible. This also includeds prep such as chopped onions and celery, and measurments of things in containers. So when you make the dish the day of, it is super easy. You also feel like a t.v. cook who has everything perfectly measured for the camera! Also, you can do the turkey or ham the day before and warm it in the crockpot the day of. This keeps your oven free!

3. Don't over do it. I am NOT Martha Stewart, and I do not want to be. I would rather cuddle with my hubby and kids or play a game with my family than slave over the stove or stress about a new recipe coming out. I really recommend you not do a ton (like, MAYBE one) brand new recipes for the day of. You can do more if you can get a "practice run" before then. Also, try to stick to about a max of 5 ingredients per dish. This will keep it simple.

4. Write down a plan of what needs done. The days before, and the day of. Write down temps and minutes of cooking, and make sure you have enough stove tops and oven space to get it done. Also make sure that you know where all of your recipes are.

6. Accept and even request help. This include set up and clean up.

These tips really help me to enjoy the holidays, and the people around me! Do you have some helpful tips? Comment below!

Hot drinks for a cold day

2009-12-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

So anyone who really knows me knows I really am not the biggest fan of snow. Is it beautiful? Oh yes, spectacular...but see, I can't enjoy it because I know that it is cold, sludgy, dirty, has the ability to be wet and dry at the same time, and did I mention COLD??? I live here in Michigan for 2 reasons only, Chris loves it, and my family lives here. So I have to suffer through the season and try to keep a positive attitude. But one thing that I really do love is all the soups and hot drinks we can consume! I absolutely LOVE to hold my coffee cup full of either coffee, cider, or hot chocolate. So I was thinking while drinking my coffee and watching the snow fall (YUCK!) how I should post some of my favorite hot drink recipes. Enjoy!

Caramel Apple Cider

I use this recipe:

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups apple cider
1 1/2 tablespoons caramel sauce or caramels, dip
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Directions

Combine apple cider, caramel and vanilla into a sauce pan.
Heat over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until apple cider is hot and caramel has melted.
Pour into a mug and enjoy.

Ginger and Lemon Tea

Ingredients:

1 medium piece fresh Ginger, peeled (a spoon is great for this) and chopped
2-3 fresh lemons
3 quarts water

Directions:

1. Fill pot with water.

2. Put in ginger and lemons zest from 2 lemons, squeeze in one of those lemons juice (more if you like flavor).

3. Bring to boil then simmer about 45 minutes.

4. Put through a colander to get out the pieces.

5. Pour tea into cup, then but lemon slice on top to float, enjoy!

Russian Friendship Tea

This is also great as a gift, just put the mixture in an air tight container

Ingredients:

2 cups instant orange drink (like Tang)
1/2 cup sweetened iced tea mix powder
1 envelope sweetened lemonade mix
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:

Fill a mug with boiling water and stir in 2-3 teaspoons of mix, to taste.

Homemade Hot Chocolate

Ingredients

1 tbsp. cocoa powder
1 tbsp of chocolate (about a square of Hersheys) (totally optional, I like the chocolate taste)
2 tbsp. sugar
2 tbsp. water
1 c. milk
a bit of vanilla, if desired

Directions:

1. Combine cocoa, sugar, and water in a small saucepan.

2. Heat it on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the paste from sticking to the pan.

3. After about 1 to 2 minutes, add milk vanilla and Hersheys if you want.

4. Mix it all together until it reaches your preferred temperature. I add Cinnamon at the end, yum!

These are so yummy to make, give them a try! And as a side note to you moms with little ones, please be careful when cooling the drinks on the counter or table. I have a close friend who set her hot chocolate on the counter to cool, turned around to get a glass, and her two year old somehow grabbed it off of the counter. She ended up getting 2nd degree burns! Poor baby!