Busy Mom in the Kitchen

Melissa and Doug Castle for over 50% off on AMAZON!

2013-01-28T02:38:00.000-09:00

Check out AMAZON for the Melissa and Doug Deluxe Folding Medieval Castle. On sale for $47.50 (regular price $100) and qualifying for free shipping! We purchased the Melissa and Doug Deluxe Folding Princess Castle (pictured below) for our daughter, and she LOVES it!

Check out the sale on this super cute castle HERE!

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Questions and Answers

2013-01-17T03:30:00.000-09:00

My yard this fall.

If you've been following Busy Mom in the Kitchen for a while, you may have noticed there haven't been any new posts in the last few months. I am still here, and still monitoring the blog, and am amazed and loving all the recent explosion in hits and comments. I took a step back from the blog, in recent months, to focus on my family. I found myself stretched just a little bit too thin, with Homeschooling kicking into high gear, along with fighting the flu, surgery for one family member and most recently rehabilitating one of our dearly loved horses. This last one has caused us the greatest struggle, as we deal with 40 below zero temps.

Beginning of winter, what a difference a few months make.

So for that reason, I will be opening up a question and answer session and blogging on topics which are important to you! I will answer each question with a link up post, answering your questions.

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Northern Lights in Alaska

2012-10-17T03:30:00.000-08:00

Since I have been ill and completely down for the count this week, I thought it was a fantastic opportunity to share some photos I recently took of the Northern Lights. Enjoy!

I shared is top one to the Facebook page.

Not a follower? Check it out and join in the conversations today!

It is also my favorite shot from the night!

This night, they were blowing quickly from West to East directly over head.

You can see a corner of my home, with the Auroras quickly moving off into the distance.

If you look closely you can see some red mixed in too!

This is what is called a curtain effect. See how it looks as if it is folding over itself?

They showed up early this night.

This shot was taken at the beginning of the show, when the sky was just darkening,

which is why the sky appears so much lighter than the other photographs.

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Adventures in Odyssey SALE!

2012-10-11T03:30:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: Source

We LOVE Adventures in Odyssey and now they are

ON SALE!!!

I grew up listening to this wonderful stories, and have now passed down my love for them to my own children. We tried the expensive DVD player in the car for trips, but found we ALL enjoy listening to Adventures in Odyssey even more. Everyone from our littlest ones to my teenagers enjoy listening to these heart warming and life lesson teaching adventures!

Best of all, it creates the perfect opening to talk about about some not so easy discussions, which are a must for all ages.

ON SALE until October 15th!

Click on the image below or click HERE to order your CD's TODAY!!!

Photo Credit: Source

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Book Review: Cut it Out!

2012-10-09T03:30:00.000-08:00

This month's advertising winner, Kate Megill, wrote a fantastic book entitled "Cut it Out!"

I had the opportunity to get my hands on a copy of this fantastic book, courtesy of the author, Kate Megill, and I am THRILLED to announce, that this book encompasses everything Busy Mom in the Kitchen teaches!

As another Stay at Home Mom to a large family, Kate teaches her secrets on how she feeds her crew of 10 for a grand total of only $500 a month!

After reading her book, I can comfortably say, if you are looking for step by step instructions, all in one place, on how to cut your family's grocery costs, WITHOUT cutting coupons, this is a MUST READ!

She teaches you how to create a price book for shopping, how to create a well stocked pantry, how to create a master meals list, to recipes to create your favorite items in your very own kitchen!

Now Available on Kindle, Nook or as a PDF download!

Click on the photo below to download your copy today!

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Win One Month of FREE Advertising!

2012-10-08T03:30:00.001-08:00

Here at Busy Mom in the Kitchen, we want to support our Work From Home Moms & Bloggers!

To show our support, each and every month, we will be offering up 1 month of FREE advertising to one lucky
Work From Home Mom or Blogger!

Each winner will have a featured spot of PRIME advertising space on our side bar for an ENTIRE MONTH!

Who May Enter:
All Work From Home Moms
Businesses and all Blogs must be owned and operated by a woman.

(examples: bloggers, home based businesses owners, network marketing business owners (link to your personal business page, not main company page) and all others owned and operated out of their home.)
If you have a question regarding eligibility for this drawing, please e-mail us at busymominthekitchen@yahoo.com.

Enter by submitting your information below!
Don't forget, you can enter EVERYDAY to increase your chances!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Want to share this giveaway? Just copy and paste this link!

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/NGFmNzk1NDI3ZGFjYjFmNzIzZDhiODNhNDI5ZWNmOjM=/

RULES: Family friendly ads and products only. By entering this giveaway, all parties agree to all rules of the giveaway. Busy Mom in the Kitchen retains the right to revoke award if terms of agreement are violated.

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. We hereby release Facebook of any liability. Winner(s) will be contacted by email 48 hours after the giveaway ends. If you have any additional questions - feel free to send us an email at busymominthekitchen@yahoo.com!

By entering this contest, you testify you are a Blog or Work From Home Business, owned and operated by a woman.

Winner agrees to submit an advertising picture of their choosing with a link or blog button with link to post to www.busymominthekitchen.com no later than the 24th of September. Failure to do so will allow Busy Mom in the Kitchen to draw a second name from this raffle and award said prize this this second named person.

Winner will receive prime advertising space on the right hand side with a tag, "VISIT THIS MONTHS AD WINNER!" or similar statement. Busy Mom in the Kitchen retains the right to change this tag line at any time.

Busy Mom in the Kitchen is not responsible for designing or instructing on how to create the needed picture, link or advertising ad. Winner assumes all responsibility for design of their ad and creating a proper and working link to their store, site or blog.

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Whirlpool Reverse Osmosis Filtration System GIVEAWAY!

2012-10-01T03:30:00.000-08:00

I am thrilled to announce Busy Mom in the Kitchen has teamed up with Whirlpool to offer up our October giveaway, a Whirlpool Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System (WHER25)!!!!

Why buy bottled water when you can make better than bottled in your own home, for a fraction of the cost?

This giveaway is EXCLUSIVELY offered by
Busy Mom in the Kitchen!

Photo Credit: Whirlpool

Enter today for your chance to win a FREE
Whirlpool Reverse Osmosis Filtration System (WHER25)!

Don't forget to come back each day to increase your chances of winning!

Why Whirlpool? Check out my review on this AWESOME filtration system HERE!

Did you miss the entire series on our well water troubles and how we solved them with Whirlpool products? Check out "The Water From Well" Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4

Don't forget to enter today for your chance to WIN this
AMAZING Filtration System AND come back each day to
increase your chances of winning!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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The Water From Well Part 4

2012-09-24T02:58:00.000-08:00

I am in LOVE....

With my WATER!!!

We did it! The water softener from Whirlpool came in, we got it installed and my water is now FABULOUS!!!

But first things first, did you miss The Water From Well Part 1, Part 2 or Part 3? Catch up on how we turned HORRIBLE well water into the Best Stuff On Earth!

We installed the 48,000 grain water softener, which is not carried in stores. But we were able to order it at Lowe's and impatiently await it's arrival 4 weeks later. Installation only took a few hours, but was SO worth the effort. For information on how to install your own water softener, contact your plumbing department at your local Lowe's or plumbing store, for their recommendations.

We began by filling our new water softener with Morton's Green Bag softener salt for Iron reduction and recharging the system. This took approximately 2 hours.

Photo Credit: Source

We then drained our hot water storage tank, and were surprised to see the sludge that had built up at the bottom of the tank. (Remember from The Water From Well Part 1, we only had a small cartridge filtration on the well when it was first installed.) The water, which was removed from the tanks maintained its orange color, throughout the entire draining process. No Wonder my shower, toilets, sinks and dishwasher had a horrible orange coating over them!

The control panel, shown below, is super easy to operate. My favorite feature is that once it's programmed, you never need to mess with it again!

(note: still not sure if I will need to reprogram the system if the power goes out, but will update this posting when I find out.)

Once the tank was drained, we refilled it with the now softened water.

All bathrooms and kitchen where thoroughly cleaned to remove any remains of rust stains, and away we went. We initially lost some water pressure in the kitchen sink, due to loosening particles in the line, but once the faucet filter was cleaned out, water pressure returned to normal.

THE RESULTS: WE LOVE IT! Our dishes are again rust and hard water free, our showers are remaining rust and hard water stain free, our sinks no longer have rust stains and the toilets no longer turn red or brown where the water sits. BONUS: Our hair is much softer, our skin is less dry, clothes get cleaner in the wash AND I use 1/2 the soap and cleaning products I was using!!!!

Did I mention I LOVE this system?

Now I should mention that, according to some, we should have purchased a more expensive unit from a company that works directly with water filtration and softening systems, which I am sure are phenomenal. This choice I will leave up to you, to decide on what's best for your family. But for our family, it just wasn't in the budget. I have come to the conclusion that Whirlpool not only makes fantastic kitchen and laundry appliances (which I also own) also makes phenomenal water products. And for the average DIYer who needs to get the job done while fitting it into a smaller family budget, I will not hesitate my endorsement of Whirlpool's Whole Home Water Filtration System, Whirlpool's Reverse Osmosis Under The Sink Water Filtration System or Whirlpool's 48,000 Grain Water Softener for the large family.

Did you miss The Water From Well Part 1, Part 2,or Part 3, head on over and see what you missed!

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Disclosure: I was not compensated by Whirlpool, Lowe's or any other company for my review of this or any other associated product. This review is my own, personal, and honest opinion.

Homemade Rice Milk!

2012-09-20T03:30:00.000-08:00

Homemade Rice Milk, a delicious alternative to the store bought Rice Milks with all the additives thrown in.

Start with 8 cups of cold water.

I ALWAYS start with Whirlpool Reverse Osmosis Water Filter, it's like getting bottled water each and every time I use it.

Add in 2 cups of pre-cooked rice.

Here I used white rice, but can also be used with brown rice.

Blend on high for 2-3 minutes

If you are not using a turbo blender, like the Vitamix, you will need to strain out the larger bits, not liquefied.

If you own a Vitamix you can skip this step!!!

To do this, you can purchase a straining bag, or a nut bag, or just use a cotton cloth or old clean cotton t-shirt as shown below.

Pour your mixture into the cloth and squeeze the milk into a pitcher or bowl.

You will need to do this a few times, as you will not be able to strain all the milk at once.

This next step can be done by mixing the the pitcher, or back in your blender,

add 2 tsp of vanilla and 2-4 Tbsp of brown sugar or other sweetener to sweeten to taste.

That's it! Wonderful, homemade rice milk!

Click the picture below to order your Vitamix today!

And don't forget to receive FREE SHIPPING

by using Coupon Code: 06-007803 at check out!

We are a Vitamix Affiliate!!!!

Rice Milk

by Busy Mom in the Kitchen

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 3 minutes

Ingredients (8 - 8 oz servings)

2 Cups Water
1/2 Cup Pre-Cooked Rice
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
1/2-1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar or other sweetener

Instructions

Rice Milk

Add 2 cups of cold water to your blender.

Add 1/2 cup of cooked white or brown rice.

Turn blender on and quickly increase speed to 10, and then to High (if using a Vitamix).

Blend for 2-3 minutes or until desired consistency is reached.

Store in the refrigerator.

Shake well before using.

Sweeten

Sweeten with 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1/2-1 Tablespoon brown sugar or other sweetener, to taste.

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Homemade Chicken Broth Using a Pressure Cooker

2012-09-19T03:30:00.000-08:00

Making Homemade Chicken Broth is as easy as it gets. All it takes is water and left over bones and bits from a chicken! Typically, you would simmer your bones in a big pot of water for about 4-8 hours on your stove top. But I found the easier and more flavorful way to make Homemade Chicken Broth is by using the pressure caner, or pressure cooker.

I prefer to save bones and bits from whole chickens in the freezer, until I am ready to make my broth.

Here are the remains of two chickens. Not very appealing now, but will do the job nicely.

Pour all the left over chicken into the pot, along with enough water to cover the bones. (about 2-3 quarts per set of chicken bones.)

(Please use the instructions included with your pressure cooker/caner)

Turn your burner onto high, and bring the contents to a boil.

I pull up on the pressure release valve to start gaining pressure in the pot.

One the pressure reaches 15, I turn the heat down a bit, to help maintain that pressure for 5-15 minutes.

When the cooker reaches the 15 lbs of pressure the regulator will begin to rock back and forth to help maintain that pressure for you.

When you have held the pressure for your 5-15 minutes, turn off the burn and allow the pot to cool completely.

DO NOT try to open your cooker!!!!

DO NOT release the pressure from the cooker!!!!

Once your cooker has cooled completely, strain your broth by pouring the contents into a strainer over a large bowl or pot.

WARNING: Contents may still be hot! Do this with care!

And that's it! A beautiful pot of homemade Chicken broth.

You will notice the broth is pretty bland, and like meat, needs to be seasoned up a bit.

I prefer to season my broth as I use it up in recipes, not before.

The largest amount of seasoning required, like meat, will be salt.

Homemade Chicken Broth using the Pressure Cooker

by Busy Mom in the Kitchen

Prep Time: 0 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

Water
Chicken bones, skin and other left over bits

Instructions

Add water (about 2 quarts per set of chicken bones) to pot

secure lid

place rocker on spout

Turn burner onto high

When contents have come to a boil, careful pull up release valve and build pressure

When pressure builds to 15 lbs, turn heat down to maintain that pressure to 5-15 minutes.

Turn burner off and let pressure cooker cool completely.

Stain contents into a colander, over a large bowl or pot to catch broth

season broth to your liking using salt and pepper.

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Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

2012-09-18T03:30:00.000-08:00

Delicious Homemade Spaghetti Sauce is super simple if you start with pre-made Tomato Sauce. To help cut costs, I like to purchase the #10 cans from Sam's Club. I then freeze or can what I don't use for future meals, including smaller servings for Pizza Night.

Pour sauce into a large pot, and turn on high, to heat through.

As Sauce heats, add your spices. (fresh or dry)

3 Tablespoons minced garlic

3 Tablespoons minced onion

1 Tablespoon salt

1/2 tsp pepper

3 Tablespoons oregano

2Tablespoons Italian seasonings.

Stir until well mixed.

Bring to a boil, and turn down to low and simmer for 30 minutes.

You may adjust your seasoning to your taste, including adding more salt if you wish.

That's it! Super easy and delicious!

For a quick freezer cooking session, double the recipe and freeze flat in proper serving size freezer bags.

Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

by Busy Mom in the Kitchen

Prep Time: 2 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Keywords: stove top entree vegetarian tomato Budget Friendly Italian fall spring summer winter

Ingredients (Serves 24)

#10 Can Tomato Sauce
3 Tablespoons minced garlic
3 Tablespoons minced onion
1 Tablespoon salt
1/2 tsp pepper
3 Tablespoons oregano
2Tablespoons Italian seasonings.

Instructions

Stir until well mixed.

Bring to a boil, and turn down to low and simmer for 30 minutes.

You may adjust your seasoning to your taste, including adding more salt if you wish.

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We are a Vitamix Affiliate!

2012-09-17T03:30:00.000-08:00

GREAT NEWS!

We are now a Vitamix Affiliate!

Have you ever thought about getting a Vitamix? Now is the perfect time to order one and receive FREE SHIPPING!

I LOVE my Vitamix! In fact I love it so much, I refuse to leave home without it! When we go camping, so does my Vitamix! I even pack it in my suitcase when I fly out for a trip!

Features on the Vitamix 5200 include:

• Two Speed Settings and Variable Speed Dial

Creates every texture with culinary precision

• Available in Five Color Finishes

Black, Red, White, Platinum, Brushed Stainless

• Precision Crafted Stainless-Steel Blades

Laser-cut, one-piece blade assembly

Sealed ball bearings prevent food and water penetration

• Seven-Year Performance Warranty -Industry’s best

Guarantees performance and parts for seven years

• “Whole Foods Recipes” Cookbook

Includes hundreds of delicious, chef-tested recipes

You will be able to not only grind your own flour, but mix your bread dough in the same container!

Photo Credit: Vitamix

You will be able to chop, mix, dice, blend, puree and whip all your ingredients in one container, to make meal preparations a breeze!

Photo Credit: Vitamix

Check out the Brochure!

Discover Vitamix and What You Can Make HERE with FREE Tutorial Videos!

Looking for a great deal on your very own Vitamix?

Click the image below to start shopping!

For FREE Shipping, use Coupon Code: 06-007803!

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Mom's Heart Friday: Hurt and Forgiveness

2012-09-14T03:30:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: Source

We've all been there, hurt or offended by another person. Could have been a family member, a friend or just an acquaintance that did the damage, but it's there and it's very real. I recently when through a situation in which I was deeply hurt, not by one person, but by multiple people back to back, within days, hours and minutes of each other. I was patient at first, thinking only that I would act appropriately, no matter what. But then the "attacks" got stronger, harsher and then a final blow from out of the blue, in a completely different direction. Multiple people, some close to me, some not, chose that exact moment to take their anger, resentment, and irritations out on me all that the exact same moment. I became angry, for a moment, but that was truly short lived. More than anything I was hurt. I really didn't like those people anymore. THEY HURT ME! I was wounded. How do we handle forgiveness when we hurt?

First, I feel it is extremely important to clarify that forgiveness is a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. The fact that you are hurt or offended may remain for a time, or even for the rest of your life, but forgiveness will lessen its grip on you. It can help you focus on other wonderful parts of your life. And forgiveness may even lead to feelings of understanding, empathy and compassion for the one or ones who hurt you.

You see, God loves us unconditionally, so much so, that he sent us Jesus. Jesus loves us unconditionally, so much so, that he died for us on the cross. As most know, the scriptures teach us, "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." But the Bible clearly takes a different stand when it comes to forgiveness. If we fail to forgive others, we too will be unforgiven.

Jesus gave us two metaphors to impress upon us the importance of forgiveness. When asked, "Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him As many as seven time?" Jesus answered, "I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven time." (Matthew 18:22) Could you imagine having to forgive the same hurtful offense seventy-seven times? But to drive his point home, in Matthew 18:23, Jesus begins to tell the story of the unforgiving creditor who refused to forgive a debt, despite the fact that he himself had been forgiven a much larger debt.

"His master summoned him and said to him, "You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?" (Matthew 18:32-33)

You see, we have been forgiven much, therefore we must forgive much. But Forgiveness doesn't mean that you deny the other person's responsibility for hurting you, and doesn't minimize or justify the wrong. You can forgive the person without excusing the behavior. But true forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life. It doesn't change history, but it makes living with it easier.

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Easy Chicken Flavored Rice

2012-09-13T10:15:00.000-08:00

Flavored Rice mixes are a delicious addition to add to most meals. But for the sake of the grocery budget, I opt for an easy homemade version instead. For the price of 1 box of pre-made mix, I can make 4-5 mixes at home.

This is my secret weapon of choice, McCormick Chicken Base.

I purchase this large container at Sam's Club. It is the perfect substitution for expensive prepackaged chicken broth. Just mix into water.

If you were wondering what it is, well here is a shot of what it looks like inside the jar.

It smells like a combination of strong chicken broth and bullion.

I add one scoop per 2 cups of water.

I love my McCormicks Montreal Chicken Seasonings.

I put it on EVERYTHING, including in the rice.

I add 1 Tablespoon per 2 cups of water

Heat your water and mix well.

After your water comes to a boil, add your rice.

Return you water to a boil, cover and turn on low.

Simmer on low for 20 minutes.

Remove from heat and let sit for 5 additional minutes covered.

There you have it, super simple, Chicken Flavored Rice, on a budget.

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Nissan NV 3500 Passenger Van Review

2012-09-12T03:30:00.000-08:00

The Ultimate Large Family Vehicle

Gone are the days of "Mom Bus". You know the typical 12 passenger full blown van by Ford and Chevy as the only option for those of us with larger than average families. I want to show you around the newest creation by Nissan. The NV 3500 Passenger Van.

Many of you may be thinking, why the heck would she want to give us a review on a van? Well, it hit me, every time I go to town, people do a double take. They do that stare as long as possible and get a kink in your neck, cause your head doesn't turn that far, look. I actually have people stop me, from getting in, getting out, loading groceries, or what have you, and want to look inside! So here it is. This is the most fantastic, most comfortable, and quite honestly the safest vehicle, for ALL of our kids, I believe we have ever owned.

With 5 kids, and 2 of them teens, we were quickly out growing our Chevy Suburban, which we have loved. I had resigned myself that I would be driving an ugly van, and I was going to be "That Mom". I really didn't like it, so was kinda putting off car shopping. Then my hubby, after doing a little research showed me this YouTube video.

Take a look.

I admit it. It was love at first watch. I imagined myself driving to town in this AWESOME looking van. Kids and their friends could go camping with us. We could all ride together, sugar plums dancing in my head, and live happily ever after. Yeah, you get the point. I was in hooked.

Long story short, we looked at it when the dealer was closed, (cause that's what sane people do when they don't want any salesmen pressure) came back the next day and test drove it, (without the kids of course), and that's when we fell in love. Yep, I used the one word I thought I would never use when talking about a vehicle. LOVE.

Through the course of test driving, we dealt with a WONDERFUL salesman. Salesman? Wonderful? Yeah, I know, kinda ironic. But this was no ordinary salesman; he was the commercial salesman and guess what?! He is SALARY! He got paid whether we bought the car or not! No pressure, just here it is, here's the best price we can do, (yep, he went there without us haggling!) and told us to come back when ever we made our decision. HUH? My hubby and I walked out of there scratching our heads thinking, "Is this guy for real?" Needless to say, we went home, thought about it, and made the call. We wanted the one in black (hubby's call).

This vehicle is beautiful, nothing like what you would expect a van to look like. To us, it looks like a Nissan Cube was combined with the Nissan Titan. It's really a cool looking vehicle, and obviously we aren't the only ones who think so, considering the amount of looks we get and people approaching us. BTW, the dealership said they had 3 people in to look at them, after seeing us around town, the first week alone!

When we drove it, one of the first things we noticed (besides how much room each kids had, or we had up front) was how quiet it was. We expected a lot more road noise, or engine noise, cause that how vans are supposed to sound. We also chose the V8 over the V6. We lose a little in fuel economy 13.5-17 mpg by going bigger, but we needed it to pull our RV comfortably. We live in Alaska after all.

Nissan claims there are 324 ways to configure the seats. But it only took us a few minutes to decide to keep all the seats in the vehicle, at least for now. You never know, we may change our minds down the road.

Besides the looks, here is what sold us on the Nissan NV 3500 Passenger Van.

Safety Features that Set the NV 3500 apart:

Side curtain air bags all the way down to the very last row!

Headrests for every seat!

Shoulder belts for every seat!

Shoulder belts integrated into individual seats, instead of from the ceiling!

As of today, none of the competitors offer these safety features.

One of my favorite features of the van is that it has both AC & DC plug ins. Kids can use their laptops for school work, watching movies or charging phones in the back, while I can do the same up front.

The kids favorite feature is all the leg room. That, and they don't have to have someone right up on them. They have a little room to spread out.

Hubby's favorite feature is a toss up between the heated towing mirrors, (For anyone who has forgotten to strap on or hook up towing mirrors after pulling out of the driveway, I think you understand why. lol) and the back doors swinging all the way open.

The rear view mirror works as a great way to monitor the kids, but because of the high seats, it isn't much use for backing up. But between the standard rear sonar and the double (large and small) side mirrors, backing up and maneuvering the van safely in traffic is simple.

The sliding side door is super easy to open, and slides and locks back extremely smoothly.

The center console is extremely large. It was created to hold a lap top, and charge it at the same time, and hold hanging file folders.

Front Passenger Seat folds forward to create an even surface for a writing desk! Talk about office on the go!

AC/Heating Vents, besides front and rear zones, each row has it's own set to vents. This allows for quick heating and cooling of the van for an extremely comfortable "cabin".

Overhead Lights, the longer we own this van it reminds me of an airplane. lol The overhead lighting was extremely well thought out, unless you have a 4 year old who likes to play with the switches, turning them all on. :) But the amount of light they put out is fantastic.

Driving and Parking is actually simple. It is wider than the typical vehicle, but with a nice turning radius, I have found that I can park the van in any normal space, without the need of parking way out in the middle of nowhere.

Inside Running Boards, okay they are more like steps, but by integrating the steps inside the vehicle and not having running boards, I don't have to worry about snow building up on them and slipping and falling while trying to climb in or out of the vehicle. (Yep, don't ask how how many times me or the kids fell climbing in or out of the suburban during the winter. Remember we live in Alaska.)

The one feature I'm a little disappointed in, is that it does not allow for an entertainment, DVD player to be installed from the roof. Because we live a ways out of town, this option would have been nice. But because the side curtain air bags are in that ceiling, I willingly take that safety feature over the luxury of the entertainment system.

Interested in learning more? Check out the specifications at Nissan HERE!

This review was my own, and received no compensation by a dealership or Nissan. But that's okay, we LOVE our van anyways!

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Easy Grilled Pork Steaks

2012-09-11T03:30:00.000-08:00

Nothing means warm weather food than being able to grill. And since there is no snow on the ground here, that means there is still time to grill! (It's the Alaskan way. lol)

I SCORED some Boneless Pork Sirloin Chops the other day for $2.03 / lb!

Great price for a large family like ours!

Here's what I did with them.

Look familiar? I LOVE this stuff!

Lightly salt both sides of your pork steaks, then generously sprinkle Montreal Chicken Seasoning on the top of your steaks and grill thoroughly

Skipped the grilling here (sorry hubby did the grilling tonight and I forgot to run out with the camera).

But Tada!!!!

Here it is in it's delicious glory.

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2012-09-10T03:30:00.000-08:00

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Mom's Heart Friday: Gearing up for another Alaska Winter

2012-09-07T02:13:00.000-08:00

Source: AK Photography
Please check out the work of Mike Criss! It's AMAZING!!!!

There is a saying that goes "when the fireweed blossoms turn to cotton, summer days will soon be forgotten." The cotton signals the end of summer. And when the cottons gone, well.....

Photo Credit: Source

Winter is coming. I see all the signs. Are we ready?

All over Facebook, I see friends, and friends of friends complaining already. Snow is a four letter word here, didn't you know? You see, although it happens every year, we have accustomed ourselves to bright sunny days, and nights. The shifting of the sun, in our sky southward, brings the unfamiliar night sky. And darkness here, means cold. And with the dropping temps, the changes of the season begins. Personally I LOVE fall and all it's yellow, orange and red displays.

Photo credit: source

Reports of Termination Dust, has speckled conversations all over the state. For those unaccustomed to the term, Termination Dust marks the end of summer and the beginning of winter (yes it does feel like we skip right over fall). It is the snow level slowly making it way down the mountain, until the entire state is covered in a blanket of beautiful, fluffy, white snow.

Photo Credit: Source

We live in an extraordinary place. Beauty abounds, here in Alaska, but Mother Nature is extreme. With temps, here in North Pole, Alaska, dropping as low at -65* F, yes that's below zero, winter isn't fun any more.

READY OR NOT, HERE WE GO!

Photo Credit: source

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Zucchini Vegetable Pizza

2012-09-06T03:30:00.000-08:00

Zucchini Vegetable Pizza with onion, tomato and zucchini.

We love Pizza night, but I get a little tired of the same old pepperoni pizza every Friday night. I created my Zucchini Pizza out of a need to use up my summer zucchini and a stronger desire to avoid pepperoni. Looking for a great recipe for pizza dough? Check out our Pizza Dough Recipe.

Skipping the early steps found on our Pizza Dough Recipe, we will just pick up at the toppings.

Slice onion in half and into half rings. Toss all over the top

Roma Tomatoes are my favorite. I used 5 tomatoes cut into THICK slices, and tossed over the onions.

Last but not least, cover the top with thick slices of zucchini, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake your pizza at 425* F for approximately 30 minutes,

or until cheese is fully melted and zucchini is tender.

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Apologies and Changes

2012-09-05T03:30:00.000-08:00

So many things have happened with Busy Mom in the Kitchen this summer. Some changes were for the good, and some not so much. For my devoted followers, I want to offer my deepest apologies for getting off track.

For those who don't already know, blogging is not something that is done with half a heart. You pour your heart into each post you put up. It takes time, creativity and heart, no matter how simple the post may seem to be. If the author felt it was worth the time to create and share with their readers, it has heart.

I began with this intent as well. But over this summer, I lost that focus, and for that I truly apologize. I may never have a huge readership, and I may never make a full time income off Busy Mom in the Kitchen, and I'm truly okay with that. No matter how much I know, I am constantly growing and learning; but it is mine. It is my voice.

The most recent and largest change, is we have said goodbye to Jenna, who was a recent member to the Busy Mom team. The parting, although necessary, was very sad. We wish her all the best on her current and future ambitions. You can still see her cleaning group on Facebook So You Like to Play the Cleaning Game as well as her newest page Lose the Judgement.

Join me in wishing Jenna the best of luck, and fulfillment in her endeavors.

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REVIEW: Beginner Dinner Games

2012-09-04T03:30:00.000-08:00

Make dinner time fun with Beginner Dinner Games! This is a family favorite in our home, and is sure to gather everyone to the table fast! No one wants to miss a turn! We have found it is a great conversation starter, and helps our family connect after a long hectic day.

There are 51 different games to choose from. You can work your way through the cards, one by one, randomly pick out your games or only play your family favorites. It makes for a guaranteed fun, relaxing evening in with the family.

By boys N and D, as D reads his card.

We generally play 3-4 different games each night during dinner,

with everyone getting at least one turn during each game.

(this picture reminds me how desperately I need to get some color up on these kitchen walls. lol)

Included in your set is a How to Play card...

and Benefits of playing card.

Take a look at card number 1

and card number 2

We love these games, and truly think our family is better off for them.

Disclaimer: I was not paid for this review, nor did I receive any form of compensation for my time or opinion. As always, my opinion is my full and honest opinion of this product.

Want to give this game a try in your home, you can purchase it at Walmart, Toys R Us, or Amazon!

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Mom's Heart Friday: Mommyhood Discontentment?

2012-08-30T13:35:00.000-08:00

I've been a Mom for over 15 years now; I became a mom when I was 20. I'm now 36, I have 5 children ranging in age from 2 to 15, and I homeschool. As I sit at home, taking care of kids, wiping booty's, helping kids with school work, and making meals, I watch posts on Facebook drift by from family members and other friends. I see posts and pictures of romantic getaways, exotic vacations, always clean houses, romantic dinners, time to grab coffee with the girls, or a quick pedicure with a friend. Sometimes, I find myself with the tiniest twinges of jealousy.

I recently posted what I originally thought was a really funny video to our Facebook page. Check it out!

What I found so funny was how much it followed real parenthood! Being a parent isn't so glamorous. I pick up toys off the living room floor at least 50 times a day. I vacuum crumbs of the same floor and furniture at least 5 times a day, fingerprints cover everything. I change multiple diapers everyday while fighting a 2 year old on potty training. I give spelling and vocabulary words times 3 kids, teach the fine art of writing, history, science and math.... well let's just say this mom has had a refresher in everything Math and it wasn't my favorite subject when I was in school.

I day dream of a life where I can follow my own dreams, get my hair done when I want, and go shopping for the FUN of it. I would love to have a perfect home. Everything neat, and in it's place. Everything organized and uncluttered. To not have piles of laundry if I miss a single day, to be able to light some candles and turn on gentle relaxing music and enjoy a glass of wine in the evening, or to be able to go for a romantic weekend without major planning or having to pack tons of stuff and a ton of kids to go with us.

But then I stop and think... what are my family-less friends missing? Hugs that come out of the blue, little faces that think the world revolves around you. Little chubby arms that they throw around your neck and repeatedly tell you that they love you. Tiny butterfly kisses on the cheek, or eskimo kisses, cause boys think rubbing noses are so much cooler that his sisters butterfly kisses. And little bodies who sneak into your bed in the middle of the night, cause sleeping with you is so much more comfortable than sleeping in their own bed. Teenagers girls who still think you are their best friend, and pre-teen sons who still think it's cool to be seen with mom when shopping. They miss someone jumping at the chance to go grocery shopping with you, just to grab the extra opportunity to have one on one with you. They miss great family games nights, where you don't need to invite friends over for a good time. They miss the love that has multiplied over the years, to a depth you never thought possible. They miss the idea of having your kids move away for college or starting their own adult life, is an idea that breaks your heart; cause their childhood is really going by way to quickly.

I will have plenty of time for a perfect home, uncluttered, unfingerprinted, where everything is in it's perfect place. I will have plenty of evenings to enjoy candle lit ambiances, slow romantic music and glasses of wine. I will even have plenty of time to enjoy coffee with the girls and quick pedicures with a friend. But I will only have my kids home for a short time. And truthfully, I don't want to miss a single second of it, even if sometimes, find myself with the tiniest twinges of jealousy. I love my family and I love my life.

The Water From Well Part 3

2012-08-29T02:18:00.000-08:00

I am IN LOVE! For the first time, since getting our well installed, we have drinkable water!!! I forgot how delicious, cold and refreshing, good, clean water could taste! So here is what we installed under our kitchen sink, and did I mention I am IN LOVE?

If you missed our earlier posts on our well water situation, check out Part 1 and Part 2.

Photo Credit: www.whirlpool.com

My sweet girl, M2, cleaned out our messy under cabinet. We got it clean, and wiped out, so Hubby could get to work.

He began by pulling out all the pieces and

installing the new drain pipe the filtration unit uses as an overflow.

He then mounted the filtration housing to the inside cabinet wall, installed the faucet and finally connected all the tubes to their proper connections, with the addition of 3 ml of house hold bleach to the final line leading to the pressure tank.

The whole installation was really very simple. We completed the two hour pressure test, and found no leaks. HURRAY!

We then disinfected and purged the whole system by letting it run for 24 hours just as described in the installation directions. I must admit, this was the hardest part of the whole process. I REALLY wanted to try out this ultra filtered water!

Once the disinfection and purging was complete, we couldn't wait to try it out, and....

IT WAS WORTH EVERY PENNY!

It tastes like bottled water, but BETTER!

The filters on this unit will need to be replaced every six months, but the battery timer in the faucet will let us know when it's time! With filters running about $84, it is still much cheaper than bottled water for my family of 7.

You can check out the Whirlpool Reverse Osmosis Under Sink Water Filtration System at Lowe's HERE!

Need to catch up? Check out Part 1 and Part 2 of this complete DIY water filtration process!

Ready for Part 4? Check out the difference a Water Softener makes!!!

This review was my own personal and honest opinion. This product was purchased with my own money and I received no compensation by the makers of this product.

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Easy Chicken & Dumplings

2012-08-27T02:45:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again when kids are back in school and the temperatures begin to drop. Since cooler temps are right around the corner, I thought now would be a great time to introduce a new, hearty chicken dish. What could be heartier that a big plate of Chicken & Dumplings?

This version doesn't require much prep time, nor the typical bowl it is usually served in.

We begin by searing our chicken in a large pan.

I've chosen chicken thighs here since they are a little cheaper to purchase by the bag in the frozen meats section of the grocery story, but any cut or cuts will work.

Once your chicken is cooked mostly through, add a family size bag of frozen mixed vegetables.

Then add your Chicken Broth, and bring to a simmer.

Add in your seasonings now, this will give you vegetables and meat tons of flavor.

To cut that cost, I use frozen homemade Chicken Broth.

If I happen to be out of my Homemade Chicken Broth, choose to use Chicken Base mixed with water (purchased at Sam's Club), because canned or boxed chicken broth can be expensive.

Gently drop your dumplings in by the spoonful.

Cover your pan with a tight fitting lid.

This will allow your dumplings to steam and cook completely through.

Uncover and test your dumplings by gently pricking the center of a dumpling with a fork.

If the fork comes out clean, they are done.

You will notice that as the dumplings cooked they absorbed most if not all of the broth,

leaving them full of the wonderful flavor.

Busy Mom in the Kitchen's Easy Chicken & Dumplings

Easy Chicken & Dumplings

by Busy Mom in the Kitchen

Prep Time: 5 Minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients (Serves 8)

For Main Chicken Dish

8 chicken pieces (thighs pictures)
1 large bag, frozen mixed vegetables
4 cups chicken broth
2 Tablespoons onion powder
2 Tablespoons garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste

For Dumplings

2 cups flour
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup shortening
1 cup milk

Instructions

Heat large skillet over Medium to Medium High heat.

Spray skillet with cooking oil, to help prevent sticking.

Gently brown thawed chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides and cooked 3/4 of the way through.

Add Mixed vegetables over the cooking chicken pieces.

Add Chicken broth and spices to pan, and bring to a simmer.

In a medium bowl mix flour, baking powder and salt. Cut in shortening thoroughly, until mixture looks like meal. Stir in milk until just mixed.

Drop by 1 - 2 Tablespoon fulls into the simmering pan.

Reduce heat to Medium Low and cover. Allow to simmer until dumplings have cooked through. To test, insert a fork into the sent of a dumpling. When it pulls out clean they are cooked. Approximately 15 minutes.

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Treatment Options for LICE!

2012-08-26T03:30:00.000-08:00

Photo source

With school starting back up, I thought it would be a great time to remind us how to treat the dreaded head lice. I know, my scalp is itching too. Ugh! Even the thought of it, gives me goosebumps. So I'd like to send you over to Holistic Homemaking and let her explain the ins, the outs, and all the nastiness that comes along with treating head lice. She even had NATURAL CURES! Check out Holistic Homemaking!!!