Four Marrs and One Venus

Log-In, Help - What's my password?

2016-12-14T19:30:00.001-08:00

3rd time is a charm, I should really write down my passwords. Aka: It's been way too long since you have logged in to Blogger Marrs. And no, I still didn't write it down, pshhh that writing stuff is for the birds. Speaking of bluejays, can you tell I haven't written in for like ever? Life folks, but MAN do I miss it and you, yes You! If any of you are still out there-- I do hope all is well and I'm::: Warning, Warning, click off if you don't want to get bored with family photos, they are about to over take your entire screen.. Hey, I warned ya!

Repeat, you will not find a finger lickin' good recipe(only a pin drop to Little Caesars) or cute cozy blanket to create today(they sell those at Costco) Nope. just a Big o Marrs Photo dump, because man does a lot happen in 6 months and this kid growing up crap and not staying little is seriously pulling at my Mom heart these days.

So enough. Let's get this dump started.

Meet Marvin. "Oh Marvin" like "alvinnnn, but Marvvvin" get it? Ok.

This is Marvin Marrs the newest member to the crew!

I saw Marvin on my friends FB page. Her daughter was fostering him and he was looking for his forever home. He was a Marrs.

Marvin meet Minnie, and the rest... is history really.

So much history that they have their own IG account. Because with ears like these two, that was a given. @MinnieMarvinAdventures #minniemarvinadventures
Side Note: I can't remember my log-in for their account/go figure. So it hasn't been updated for awhile, but still loads of pics of cute ears.

Up Next, School is Back in Session

(again, taking it back to August peeps)

If you are still reading, fist bump.

Are you kidding me? 12th, 8th and 4th? Dang does time fly!

..... and

just when I thought I dried up all my tears from the school drop offs.. Aaron decided to get his Senior pictures taken.

Just put a fork in me!

Look at this man, yes M.A.N!

- - - - - - - - - - - -

We interrupt this post for a special message:

Happy 14th Birthday Mason!

What in the sam heck is going on around here?

Pizza + Brownies is this kids jam!

And back to the new Marrs Man in the house(yes he is shaving, Man I tell you)

Aaron tested and earned his Third Degree Black Belt in November!

Why Did the Turkey Cross the Road Twice?

To Prove He wasn't a Chicken!

Thanksgiving 2016 was a hit and spent up in Idyllwild!

Last but not least, Bryan and I celebrated our 18th Wedding Anniversary!

Thankful and blessed to enjoy everyday life with these loves above.

Until next time friends, wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!

Love, The Marrs

ps. follow along our everyday on instagram

5 Things to do and see in June Lake

2016-06-11T12:00:00.001-07:00

June Lake is one of our favorite places to visit. There are so many different things to do and see in and around June Lake, so sit back... enjoy the views as we share them with you!

To start, we reserved our campsite online and were lucky back in March to find a space open for the span of 5 days. Book as soon as you can as June Lake is a high demand area and campsites go quickly!

Our spot was perfect, it was nestled snug among trees, private and just steps away from June Lake. We wasted no time at all setting camp up quick and grabbing fishing poles to string!

Let's cut the chatter and dive right into the 5 Things (we did and you should too!) on your next visit to June Lake:

#1 FISHING

Bring those poles you guys.. because you will want to cast, cast and cast some more! Within 5 minutes, I kid you not - Derek hooked a rainbow trout! There are many places to fish: June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake.. to name a few. All within 5 minutes of each other!

#2 Hike

I mean, stop and stare. Because that is all I do when I am in this area. The views are out of this world, ones you have to see for yourself to appreciate. There are so many trailheads and different hikes you can do while in June Lake. We decided to hike up to Fern Lake. This hike was all uphill, we took our time and made sure to bring lots of water. There is plenty of shady areas to stop and catch your breath.. the uphill battle was well worth it. A beautiful, quiet lake that you can only get to on foot.. score baby score!!

#3 GEOCACHING

This activity is a family favorite of ours! While you are hiking or just want to find some, get after it! We actually found a geocache back on our trip in 2010.. and wanted to see this year if it was still there. Holla.. it was!! We had to sign the little booklet again this year and we added a fun "prize" to the bucket along with many others! We can't wait to see if it's there in the years to come!

#4 VISIT LOCAL HOTSPOTS

June Lake is a small little town with some great hotspots you won't want to miss! From our campsite, we walked into town many times! The Tiger Bar opens at 8am and is known to serve a killer bloody mary.(you are welcome) Also, if you love a good beer.. you must check out the June Lake Brewery! Bryan and I hopped on our bikes and pedaled over for some great beer, good convo and killer views!

#5 CANOE/PADDLE BOAT IT

Get off the shore and rent a boat! We decided to head over to Gull Lake for some Canoe and Paddle Boat action. They are about $20 for an hour, which for us- an hour out was perfect! Enough time to get across the lake, enjoy the views and head back to the dock!

We stayed for 5 days and it was just the perfect amount of time to get out and really enjoy this gorgeous area. Clear water, snow-capped mountains and blue skies.. now that is living.

Thank you for swinging by and we hope you plan a trip to June Lake and enjoy it as much as we do every year! Is there anything we should add to our list next time we visit? Let us know, we are always down for new adventures!

My Mom

2015-05-08T16:38:00.001-07:00

It's not everyday I get all gushy and introduce you to someone who means the world to me, my Mom.

Moms are a pretty big deal. When you were little they picked the lice out of your hair, cleaned your toothpaste out of the bathroom sink and made you breakfast, lunch, after school snacks and dinner! They encouraged you to do your best and were always there if you needed an ear or just a hug. Moms are marvelous super power incredible beings!

Disclaimer: I am a spoiled lucky girl. My Super Power Mom lives 5 minutes from me.

This Mother's Day I wanted to find a way to show my mom how much I love her and how thankful I am of our friendship. I couldn't find a better way then to show up with some simply irresistible oh-so-dang-yummy Shari's Berries and enjoy them with her over some laughs.

While all the boys were at school, I snuck over to my sweet Mom's House, and surprised her with a yummy treat and visit.

At first my Mom didn't want to share. I couldn't blame her... just look at those babies!

Then I convinced her to "bring them over here, let's catch up on life over on the couch mom... and hey, bring that plate of berries with ya" - Sold. Hook, line, sinker (she likes to chat) We then got our laughs and berry grubbing on. Oh was it ON! These strawberries you guys are so so good. Sweet with the perfect combo of chocolate coated.. I felt all fancy eating them! They made for the prefect treat to share with my Mom!

After we grubbed and figured out who was taking Derek to his soccer game tomorrow as Bryan and I are both busy with the other 2 kids of ours... again- spoiled girl, right? I just sat there for a minute thinking how lucky and blessed I was to share this moment with my Mom. My Mom is a wonderful example and someone I strive to be daily.

Happy Mother's Day Mom, I love you!

I want to thank Shari's Berries for sending us these amazing strawberries that I was able to share with my Mom. Of course all opinions are my own, but I'm telling you, these babies will make that special person in your life smile from ear to ear. Wishing you all a very Happy Mother's Day!

Let's Play Ketchup, I mean Catch up

2015-04-30T13:38:00.003-07:00

HELLO

My name is still Jen Marrs. Still married to my love.

Still have only 3 boys. No I am not going for the girl.

After 8 years we have a updated family photo in the house!

Still have not found time to blog. Oh snap, I am writing a post now. ~~Scratch~~ that.

I love my job! Working at Pollinate Media and with amazing bloggers make me smile!

My DIY counters in my kitchen are finally giving up on life. I will be hiring someone.

My happy spot is still spitting seeds on the sideline of my middle man's baseball games.

I purchased my first bottle of root consealer to cover the greys. Thanks Mom.

It snowed in Southern California the day before New Years. That will never happen again.

I had a crazy throw the crap out session and pitched all my Yearbooks. It will be ok, I have Facebook.

I sent my husband out for Carne Asada. He came home with a new dog and Carne. #minniemarrs

Dinner conversations hot topics are still poop and farts. That will never change.

Making some big decor changes in the master bedroom dept. Bring on the Romance! (p.s. I went with #1 chair)

I found that Mitchum Dry Powder (not clear/invisible) Rocks My Arm Pit Socks. It works guys!!

Freak out moment- oldest child driving. I can't be this old.

I turned 36 last month. oh Shoot that was 2 months ago, wait, am I 36 or 35?

Dang.

It.

Quick Cinnamon Swirl Bread

2015-03-01T12:11:00.001-08:00

If you are new here, Welcome! If you are a regular, I promise this blog has not been hijacked. It's really me you guys! It's been awhile, I know I know (hangs the head in a little shame) Life has been a bit crazy, good crazy..but crazy! Enough about all that I know why you are here- you saw, or had a little glimpse of some ooey-gooey oh so get in my belly Cinnamon Swirl Bread. AND you want the recipe - duh!

Move it or lose it sista, let's get on with it!

Alright you guys, on the count of three I want a big Mmmmmmmm. 1, 2, 3

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

The "How-To" make this grub:

Quick Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Printable Version
2 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups sugar, divided
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 cup buttermilk (I made my own using 4 1/2 t. white vinegar mixed w/ 1 cup milk. Let stand for 10 minutes)
1 egg
1/4 cup canola oil
3 tsp. ground cinnamon

GLAZE:
1/4 c. confectioners' sugar
1- 1/2 to 2 tsp. milk

Preheat oven to 350. Combine flour, 1 c. sugar, baking soda and salt. Add in buttermilk, egg and oil. In a small bowl combine cinnamon and remaining sugar.

Grease the bottom of a 9x5in. loaf pan. Pour half of the batter into pan and sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar. Pour the remaining batter and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar. Cut batter with a knife to swirl.

Bake 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes. Gently remove from pan to wire rack to cool completely. Combine confectioner' sugar and enough milk to reach desired consistency. Drizzle over loaf.

What I learned?
Double this recipe!
It was G.O.N.E., A.T.E, D.E.M.O.L.I.S.H.E.D

in 5 minutes folks.

Even the cute little "butts" of the Cinnamon Swirl Bread got some grubbin' on. I honestly don't know what's cuter, the little chipmunk nibbling or his freckles?.

Looking for more quick n' easy crowd pleasing? Check out these Quick Blueberry Muffins made with Ice Cream!

STOK Grill, A Camping Essential!

2014-11-19T16:21:00.001-08:00

We are big on camping over here in the Marrs house. This past summer we took a week long trip up to Lake Cachuma! We had an absolute blast playing games, fishing and eating all that fantastic "camping food". This time we brought along a new fun Camping Essential.... A STOK Grill!

This portable gas Gridiron STOK grill is the best camping companion! It is also great for tailgating, picnics and so much more! Our food was perfected on this grill and I honestly could not have been more pleased with the quality and performance this baby delivered! So enough with me and all my talking, because I could go on for days about this STOK grill. I will let the photos take you away to Steak and Bacon STOK Pleasure Town!

THE SET-UP

One quick pull up from the handle, slip the latch in place. Done!

Easy propane hook-up (we also use the little propane tanks for tailgating use)

THE STEAK

We cooked the Steaks on low, we also cut up red potatoes and wrapped them in foil with sliced butter. Dinner was delicious!

THE SHOWING OFF

Our friends had to come check the bad boy out, and they were very impressed!

THE SUNRISE

Good Morning! Did someone say Bacon? How about straight from the grill?

No mess and cooked to perfection!

THE SAY GOOD-BYE

Release the latch

Lower it down

Roll out

The week flew by.

Many memories were made, fish caught and loads of laughs were shared this Summer 2014 at Lake Cachuma. Until next time...

Be Brave and Be Beautiful

2014-09-29T05:52:00.002-07:00

I am Brave and Beautiful - a beauty movement that is sweeping the globe. Colbie Caillat started it with her recent song and video called TRY. My blogging friend Megan of Brassy Apple wanted to push this movement along and invited women from all over to share what they looked like without make up and I joined in!! Colbie's song says, "Take your make up off. Let your hair down... Look into the mirror at yourself, Do you like you? Cause I like you... "

Megan and her friend Cobi of Peacefrom6pieces have been the team behind this whole project. Their worldwide vision included creating their own video inspired by the song TRY. The talent of Robbins Creative made it possible for them to pull it off. You have to click play and see the beauty and bravery displayed and you might even recognize a few faces in there.

Me along with 101+ other blogging women from different backgrounds, religions, ethnicities, ages, shapes and sizes have decided to be Brave and Beautiful! You can join in this movement too by sharing what you look like without makeup on. You don't need a blog either! Just tag your photo with #IamBraveAndBeautiful on Instgram and search the hashtag to see who else has joined in. ALSO, if you tag it with a second hashtag - #ColbieTRY we just might be able to get Colbie Caillat's attention since she was the inspiration behind it all!

Are you brave and beautiful? I am, here I go!

Be You. Be Brave. Live Well. Laugh Much. Love Life. Be Beautiful

Don't stop here. Get clicking around - its a blog hop! Below are more brave and beautiful women bearing more than their natural beauty. They each have a little bit of their heart to share with you. Some get very personal. Some share stories. For some this was very hard to do yet they gathered their courage and did it anyway. We hope as you click around (and YES pin these different posts!) you will feel the importance of it, the empowering effect it has and that it encourages you in some way.

>>>>>>>Important info! Blog Hops often have glitches the first day. If the link has an ERROR, simply click on the HOME button for each site, or google the blog name next to the link, and you should see their brave and beautiful post there. Links will be updated as soon as possible.<<<<<<<<<<<<

1. BrassyApple 2. Peace from 6 Pieces 3. Is this Really My Life 4. Among the Young 5. Love Me Dani Marie 6. Sweet Charli 7. Kim Orlandini 8. XO, Ashton Tilton 9. She Calls Me Mama Leisha 10. Raising Memories - Canada 11. A Little Tipsy 12. Amy Cornwell 13. A girl and a glue gun 14. My Craftily Ever After 15. Maybe I Will 16. WhipperBerry 17. Paging SuperMom 18. All Things Thrifty 19. Ashlee Marie 20. The Project Girl

21. One Little Momma 22. Entirely Eventful Day 23. Diary of a Brown Eyed Girl 24. Tips from a Typical Mom 25. Utah Sweet Savings 26. Flats to Flip Flops 27. One Krieger Chick 28. What Meegan Makes 29. Simply Kierste 30. Live to be Inspired 31. HoneyBear Lane 32. Pretty Providence 33. Ma Nouvelle Mode - in FRANCE 34. MomEntity 35. Serger Pepper - in ITALY 36. Kiki and Company 37. Girl Loves Glam 38. Thrive

39. The Potters Place 40. Crafting in the Rain 41. Cooking With Ruthie 42. Delineate Your Dwelling 43. The Pennington Point 44. Bakerette 45. The Happy Scraps 46. Shannon Baird Photography 47. Tried and Tasty 48. Lionesses at the Gate 49. Fry Sauce and Grits 50. Lolly Jane 51. That's What Che Said 52. Sugar Bee Crafts 53. Your HomeBased Mom 54. Happiness is Homemade 55. The Crafted Sparrow 56. R&R Workshop 57. I Should Be Mopping the Floor 58. Sassy Steals

59. Let's Eat Grandpa 60. Being Spiffy 61. Sumo's Sweet Stuff 62. Ginger Snap Crafts 63. Bless This Mess 64. Apronista 65. Dreaming About Someday 66. Frenchie 67. Tastefully Frugal 68. Four Marrs and One Venus 69. Your Sister Circle 70. Over the Big Moon 71. See Vanessa Craft 72. Infarrantly Creative 73. Family StoryTelling

74. Albion Gould 75. Life as Mrs. Larson 76. Tried and True 77. Play.Party.Pin. 78. Bite of Delight 79. Ink Happi 80. ObSEUSSed 81. U Create 82. My Mommy Style 83. Find it Make it Love it 84. The Contractor Chronicles 85. Novae Clothing 86. Mommy Makes Things 87. At Home with Sweet T 88. We Like to Learn As We Go 89. House for Five 90. Organize and Decorate Everything 91. Sassy Southern Gurl 92. The Creative Mom 93. Keep Moving Forward with Me

94. The Benson Street 95. Mom 4 Real 96. Sowdering About 97. illistyle 98. The Crafty Blog Stalker 99. A Fiery Red Life 100. Cupcakes & Crowbars 101. One Sweet Appetite 102. My DayLights 103. Restless Risa

104. Sypsie Designs 105. Vintage Mother 106. Like Mother Like Daughter 107. 30 Handmade Days 108. Queen B and Me 109. Apples by Ashley 110. Boutique Cafe - in CANADA 111. Just My Little Mess 112. Bombshell Bling 113. Sarah Tyau 114. Taradara Make it 115. Capturing Joy 116. Ivory Lime Photography 117. Jenkin Kids Farm 118. Free Time Frolics 119. Bella Storia 120. Dana Ohlsen Photography

Ready in join in?Snap, hashtag and share! Tag @BrassyApple and @Peacefrom6Pieces if you can too!

Also follow our Bravery and Beauty PINTEREST board for more inspiration!

Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

2014-07-02T03:00:00.000-07:00

It's Grill time baby! That's right, this month my girls and I are rounding up some yummy grilling' picnic-ing pinterest worthy so get pinning recipes for you all!

I scoured Pinterest and pinned so many great looking shrimp recipes. I decided I wanted simple, not too much prep. So I went with these super easy and delicious shrimp and veggie kabobs.

With the weather kicking 80 degrees here in California.. the grill just screams "use me" - So I had to! These shrimp and veggie kabobs were the perfect "winter" {in socal} meal - you can slap me later..first let's get on with the grub!

Shrimp & Veggie Kabobs

1-2 lbs shrimp raw peeled and deveined

whole mushrooms

cherry tomatoes

onion

bell peppers

Italian dressing

1st Ziploc Bag: Shrimp and 1/2 cup Italian dressing

2nd Ziploc Bag: All the veggies and 1 cup Italian dressing

Refrigerate for 2 hours.

*If using bamboo skewers, soak in water 2-3 hours before using

Start stacking up the shrimp and veggies!

Yum

Grill on medium heat for about 6 minutes or until shrimp is pink. Turning every 2-3 minutes.

Serve with white rice, fresh fruit and sourdough bread.

Enjoy

Now here it is... TADA

Our yummy round up so make sure you pin and check all these yummy recipes out for your next Summer BBQ!

Personalized "Big Bling" Cell Phone Case

2014-06-13T06:50:00.000-07:00

Bling Bling, can I get an H to the ELLO! I had no clue you could bust out a personalized cell phone case for under $5 and dare I say 5 minutes! It's true folks, true as can be! I am super excited to share with you how you can make one today. Are you ready? I said...are you ready? Let's roll!

First you will need to make a trip to Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores to pick up all the supplies.

BLING CELL PHONE COVER CLEAR

HAMMERED GOLD PAPER

COBALT STUDS BLING GEMS

Step 1:

Trace the Cell Phone Cover on the paper/cut out

Step 2:

Push paper in the case flat. Insert your phone into the case

Step 3:

Create a fun design using the stick on gems

Well? What do you think? I love the added cobalt blue bling bling to this clear case making it all mine and one of a kind! Make sure you hit up Jo-Ann's for that Blingity Bling Bling ..ok!

Now for some fun..you ready?

Right NOW you have a chance to win $200 to Jo-Ann's. It is very easy to enter, all you have to do is participate in the weekly Instagram sweepstakes. You can find all the information over at Jo-Ann's. Show us your personalized crafts and creations on Instagram and use the hashtag #TheBigBling and you will be entered to win in their weekly drawings! Good Luck!

I almost forgot, the Big Bling is all set up over at your Jo-Ann's so head on in and get ready to be wow-ed!

Backyard Beverage Station

2014-06-04T06:57:00.001-07:00

It's June! When I think of June I think of two very important things:

1. BBQ-ing out back 2. Father's Day

So with that said, I created a fun backyard beverage station just in time for Father's Day..and our Summer full of BBQ-ing days! I can't wait to show you how easy and cheap it was to create a fun little space like this out in your backyard.

I have a crush on World Market, we all know that. They have amazing different items..and just unique stuff. I grabbed this Stationary Bottle Opener there as it was exactly what I was looking for.

Another thing World Market has loads of is great bottled beverages! I grabbed some of our favorite beers and of course some Dad's Root Beers in honor of Father's Day approaching (and something fun for the kids to drink)

Placing these in a Galvanized Party Tub found at World Market was just the last thing I needed for my little backyard space.

I set up camp right next to the "Q" .. because that is were it should be. Right next to my man, the grill master. Ice cold beverages within arms reach ... Happy Father's Day Babe!

Are you on the hunt for more fun Father's Day Ideas? Well my friends, you are in luck..take a look at all my friends ideas... enjoy!
Design, Dining and Diapers �| �Bombshell Bling �| �Crazy Little Projects That's What {Che} Said... �| �52 Mantels �| �Girl Loves Glam The Happy Housie �| �Cherished Bliss �| � Classy Clutter The Cards We Drew �| �Giggles Galore �| �Four Marrs One Venus

Light Fixture for Boys Bedroom

2014-05-30T06:18:00.002-07:00

Holy Heckers, I have a blog post up! Can I get a what what? I am thrilled to share with you all my boys new light fixture in their bedroom that I received from National Builder Supply! First, love this company they are just amazing, super awesome customer service, fast shipping and quality items for all your needs in your home- so be sure to check them out!

Once upon a time, we had a ceiling fan.

Ceiling Fan and Bunk Beds don't really go with each other...unless you want to chop off your head.

National Builder Supply saves the day!

We are beyond thrilled with the new flush mount light fixture made by ET2 Lighting Elements as it goes awesome with the boys decor. Simple and stylish..thats what I love! It provides excellent light to the bedroom as well! Check out the before and after.... go ahead on the count of three..1, 2, 3 -- say WOW!

I want to thank National Builder Supply for saving my boys heads and for supplying us a stylish new light fixture! Do you Remember my rad Delta Pilar Touch 2o Kitchen sink? If not, that baby is still rocking and we are loving it as well. Take a look at it if you want to stick around a bit!

DIY Fake Corsage

2014-05-07T05:44:00.000-07:00

It's not everyday I get all dressed up for Prom. However, if you followed along my 80's Prom fun on Instagram, you will know I even busted out a fake corsage for the event. I can't keep this goodness to myself so I decided to share it with you all. Everyone should have a fake corsage in their drawers, you know ..in case you get asked to Prom. Let's get down to the knitty-gritty!

DIY FAKE CORSAGE SUPPLIES:

Fake Flowers

Tulle

Elastic Sequin

Floral Wire

Hot Glue

Step 1: Cut your flowers, arrange them

Step 2: Wrap the floral wire around the stems

Step 3: Use a little bit of the elastic sequin and glue it over the wire

Step 4: Cut a strip of tulle, glue it around the stem area

Step 5: Tuck the tulle into the flowers...gluing in place

Step 6: Measure the elastic sequin for your wrist (remember you want it to fit tight/snug)

Step 7: Glue the elastic sequin creating a circle

Step 8: Glue the elastic sequin onto your corsage

Step 9: ROCK IT (see below)

Too much fun... but wait! I have more fun below.. because my awesome Blog-Hopping Girls are rocking this MAY with loads of flower ideas! May Flowers are in the House:

Loaded Chilaquiles Recipe

2014-05-05T05:46:00.000-07:00

Good Monday Morning..and HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO! I am so beyond excited to be here with you all this May 5th day and busting out a new recipe which oh my goodness is a for sure hit with the family!

First I have to tell you, we love eggs in this family. Oh man do we! I never knew there was a difference in eggs, truly... just give me an egg. My eyes have been opened to a whole new world you guys! EGG-LAND'S BEST put the bomb diggity in the egg department. Holy smokes!

Let's talk about my dish I decided to create for you all. Being that it's Cinco De Mayo and all...how about some Loaded Chilaquiles, hey now! Take a look at this:

I know you are all drooling, as you should be. This baby is the brunch wham bam you guys. Add some fruit and hello you got yourselves a great party in your mouth! So you want the recipe...well that's just awesome because I got it for you!

Recipe Title: Loaded Chilaquiles

Total Servings: 8-10

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Cook Time: 40 Minutes

Ingredients:

2 cups oil for frying

1/3 cup chopped onion

1/3 cup chopped red bell peppers

30 corn tortillas, cut into strips

6 Eggsland’s Best Eggs, lightly beaten

2 teaspoons salt

1 (7.75 ounce) can Mexican style hot tomato sauce

1 can black beans

1/2 cups water

1/2 cup shredded cheese

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat oil to 350 degrees. Stir in chopped onion and cut tortilla strips. When the tortilla strips are almost golden brown, add in the red bell pepper and continue cooking until tortilla strips are crisp. Remove from heat, drain on paper towels. Drain the skillet leaving a thin residue of oil.

2. Next, over medium heat, return the crispy tortillas to the skillet, add in the beaten eggs. Season with salt and cook/stir until eggs are firm.

3. Mix the Mexican style hot tomato sauce and water into the skillet. Add in the can of black beans and reduce heat. Simmer until thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Top with cheese. Continue cooking until the cheese has melted.

Additional Notes:

Garnish with sour cream and green onions. Serve with fresh fruit, enjoy!

For reals, you will make that brunch pop with flavor adding these Loaded Chilaquiles to the table! Now for some off the charts information that you all need in your life!

2014 EGG-LAND'S BEST is hosting a very awesome "Your Best Recipe" Contest! Of course I will be adding my main man above in it! Will you be joining me? I sure hope so!
Here are the details:

-Starting today, May 5th EGG-LAND'S BEST is accepting original recipes through their website until July 31st.

-One grand Prize Winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize and a year supply of EB eggs - HOLLA! Category winners will receive a cash prize of $1,000 and a six-month supply of EB eggs!

-This year, EGG-LAND'S BEST is adding two new cash prize awards to their contest- the Kid Friendly Award and the Fan Favorite Award! Awesomeness!

Now for a EGG-LAND'S BEST Fun Fact: Did you know that the majority of vitamins and nutrients of an egg are found in the yolk? Compared to ordinary eggs, EB eggs have: 4 times more vitamin D, more than double the omega-3s, 10 times more vitamin E and 25% less saturated fat.

Have I sold you yet? Because I am just blown away at how much better EB eggs really are compared to your ordinary eggs. I had No Idea.

I leave you with one last question my friends: What dish would you make with EGG-LAND'S BEST eggs? I challenge you to create a dish of some sort and upload it to their website -- Good Luck!

"The Eggland's Best coupons, information, and two gift cards have been provided by Eggland's Best."

Weave Made Twitter Chat: Motherhood and Lifeway Kefir

2014-05-01T07:33:00.001-07:00

COME PARTY WITH US!

We know that some of the hardest workers often go unnoticed, underpaid, or underappreciated. And we know that most Moms especially, have probably felt that way at least once in their lives. For all the amazing moms out there, Lifeway Kefir wants to celebrate you this Mother’s Day. They want to celebrate your strengths, your tough days and your incredible accomplishments. Whether it be potty training your youngest, helping your oldest with his first day of homework or reflecting on all the creative strategies you had to use to get your rowdy bunch to sit down and try a new dinner recipe, we want to hear all about you and your Super Mom secrets! Because, let’s face it, we know every good mom has a super hero inside of her! So come join us next week as we celebrate you and other awesome moms and enter to win some amazing prizes that are sure to make your Mother’s Day extra special this year!

Here are the details:

When: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 from 8-9 pm EST (5-6:00 PST)

Where: On Twitter, using the hashtag #MotherCulture

Who: Be sure to follow our hosts @weavemade, @jenmarrs, @growingupthomas, and guest of honor @Lifeway_kefir

TweetDeck: We recommend following along using TweetDeck for the party. Search for our #MotherCulture hashtag + add a column to follow along

Prizes: During the party we will be giving away 1 gift suite of Lifeway frozen kefir, 1 gift suite of Lifeway drinkable kefir, 1 gift suite of Lifeway kids products, and 1 Lifeway chef’s gift bag (includes hand blender, apron, recipe cards, VIP coupons and cooler bag)

We’ve also made it easy for you to let your followers know about this twitter party. Just copy and paste the tweet below.

Join us as we celebrate moms & all that motherhood brings with it on 5/7/2014 8pm EST RSVP http://bit.ly/PLZNiw #MotherCulture

Please RSVP using the link below (enter the URL to your Twitter profile) to be eligible for a prize. All winners will be chosen randomly from the RSVP list. Winners must be present and participating during the party to be eligible to win a prize. Be sure to follow the Party Hosts, along with using the hashtag in every tweet about the party.

Spring Bunny Pillow

2014-04-15T07:38:00.001-07:00

Who is ready for Spring? Yes please! I am so excited to share this fun sassy little cutie pie with you today. Oh and for the record, I made my first pom pom. Yep. Check out that sweet green little pom pom, get outta bunny town!

You guys, this pillow took me about 10 hopping minutes to pop out. Shall we?

Then you place her out on your couch, along with some other pillows and a fun throw.

Instant Spring Fling is now kickin' in full force mode: Gotta love it.

Just look at it. It's like I want to make 8 more! Ok, not..but kind of right? You get me!

While we are on the bunny/rabbit trail, here is a fun, quick project I did last year.

DIY Rascally Rabbit

Wishing you and your cute bunnies a Happy Easter!

Carrot Treat Bag

2014-04-02T04:44:00.000-07:00

Hippity Hoppity Easters on it's way! Today this post is full of Easter goodies!

My blog-hoppin' girls and I have brought you loads of Easter DIY easy ideas!

I will start with my little guy.. carrot treat bags!

These are perfect for school goodies, at table settings…really easy and fun to create. Your kids would have a blast painting these up!

I had some natural colored fabric laying around, and cut out a square.

Then with a simple diagonal fold, sew one side and you have a cone shaped carrot.

Paint it up, fill it, ribbon it…and poof! Done!

Now for the rest of my Easter Gang's Goodies:

GYCO Potato Winner

2014-04-01T10:06:00.000-07:00

Finally it's feature and winner time here at Get Your Chef On! Sorry for the delay…but we are rolling now! So yes, we all had to whip up something mighty tasty with Potatoes as our star ingredient! Boy did these ladies rock.

I am not going to even type anymore and bore you!

On with the recipes!

Roll

Out

Baby Potatoes in Aioli

by white lights on wednesday

Dublin Coddle with a Twist

by: YUM eating

Paleo Sweet Potato Brownies

by: cooking with curls

Potato Leek Soup

by: amy's cooking adventures

And the Winner of the Potato Round of

is:

Congrats to Nicole over at 365ish days of Pinterest!

You won this round with your amazing grubbing Fries Quatro Queso Dos Fritos!

Please email Julie and I and we will hook it up with your ad space!

Thank you to everyone who came out, grabbed an apron and cooked this fun potato round with us! Hope to see you back next time…stay tuned into Facebook or Instagram to find out which ingredient we will be throwing your way soon!

Until then, keep cooking!

Me, March, 35

2014-03-28T06:24:00.001-07:00

Hello Hello! It's Friday, can we do the Friday dance? You go first..you know I will follow. I woke up today and just feel a bit chatty, so I thought heck with it. Let's write a blog post. So heck with it, here I am! I feel like I have so much to tell you, I know…crazy stuff right?! My life at the moment is more then awesome and I am so lucky and very thankful. I am just going to spill all my happiness all over this keyboard while I gulp down my coffee and dance, because it's Friday.

My happiness these days:

First up, it's March. well crap, March is almost gone, but dang it I love me a good March Month.

My daily coffee and 4-6 pieces of sourdough toast with butter- oh golly gee willy-kers!

age 35: Good garsh is that right? 35? when, how what? I am taking it and rocking it out…gotta accept.

Studs x's 4 enough said . they rock

new threads! Ok guys, this is a biggie for me. Confession: I don't shop much, and lately I can't stop! It's like a problem, but a good problem right? I mean I feel better, look better, etc. etc. totally- that's what I thought, I am good. So me ordering 2 maxi skirts from jane.com at 5:34am this morning is totally normal. Ok, good, just wanted to check with the pros.

exciting new opportunity and working gig! Eeeekkk…!!!! I am a real working girl now and I adore it and feel so crazy lucky to have joined an amazing company and team! I am working over at Pollinate Media as a Project Manager and hello love it!

baseball season! That's right, 1-2-3 strikes your out… peanuts, cracker jacks here! shaabam, spitting seeds is back!

So as you can clearly see, life is rolling good for the Jen these days. I can't complain, really I can't. Well I could use a lemon bar with my coffee this morning. Oh I do have one last thing to say. Thank YOU my awesome friends and readers for always supporting me in this blog adventure! Without you all… I would just be a 35 year old eating sourdough bread. Mmmmm sourdough bread.

Alright- and that's a wrap. Me, March, 35 - shaaabam! Next Jen update will be when I am 36 - HA! Crap that's old.

Chore Cootie Catcher

2014-03-25T09:28:00.001-07:00

Today we are going to talk about the dreaded chore list that every kid hides from.

Not.

Any.

More.

Nope, we created the fun way to do chores: a Chore Cootie Catcher!

Bring the fun factor back into the chores by taking a piece of paper and folding it into a standard cootie catcher. You will then write the numbers 1-8 on the top flaps. Then put your chores on the underside of the numbers. Turn your cootie catcher over, color each flap a different color.

Then let them at it! Take a look at my boys playing the chore cootie catcher:

Are you looking for more fun boy projects?Check out this recycled Capri-Sun iPod holder:

GYCO: Fiesta Ranch Potato Bites

2014-03-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

Back with another challenge of Get Your Chef On…and Potato being our secret ingredient. This was a simple yet amazing little recipe I whipped up! Fiesta Ranch Potato Bites, dipped in some sour cream..oh my good!

So if you wanted to make these bad boys, you really should, I am not going to twist your arm or anything, but DANG it they are good. You won't be sorry! Ok, here we go….

Shopping List

Brown Potatoes

Packet of Fiesta Ranch Dip {powdered}

Olive Oil

Sour Cream

Dice up your potatoes and put them into a ziplock baggie. Next pour a little bit of olive oil into the baggie with the potatoes. You want just enough to coat them. Now add in the packet of fiesta ranch dip {again, totally your call on how much of the packet you want to use} Again, coat the potatoes.

On a cookie sheet pour a little bit of olive oil down, now add your potatoes and make sure they are all evened out, only 1 layer on the cookie sheet. Bake at 425 for 15-20 minutes. I didn't turn mine, but just keep checking them and test for doneness. Serve em up with some sour cream, and my oh my..enjoy!

Chocolate Milky Way Simply Caramel Bundt Cake

2014-03-17T08:48:00.002-07:00

"I am a member of the Collective Bias® Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper amplification for Collective Bias and its advertiser."

Holy smacks. Have you seen the new Milky Way Simply Caramel BITES?

So beyond fabulous, mix them into a moist Chocolate Bunt Cake and you my friends have a delicious decadent dessert!
#EatMoreBites #CollectiveBias

I know you didn't just come over here to drool over this right? You would love to learn how to make your very own party in your mouth..ok. ok… let's get on with the recipe then!

First let's talk coupons, because hello- who doesn't love saving some cash-o-laaa?! Click the photo and you will grab instant savings on this key ingredient to our bundt cake!

So you have headed to Walmart shopped in the candy section and with your HOT Coupon for the goods up there, now we are ready to roll with creating an amazing easy Bundt Cake! Can we talk about this chocolate cake really quick. I wish I could tell you folks that I came with with this amazing moist sour cream bundt cake recipe all on my own..but that would be lying. I owe this cake recipe amazingness to Two Peas and Their Pod Blog. So head over and check out their rocking recipe to make the cake part to our creation.

Sour Cream Chocolate Bundt Cake Recipe

Now that we have the cake mixture, pour half of it into your buttered/floured Bundt pan.

Fun Part::::Ready? Grab your Milky Way Simply Caramel BITES (note: I did chop mine up into smaller BITES so that they wouldn't sink to the bottom. I wanted them to stay in the middle of my cake)

Now go ahead and cover the BITES with the rest of your cake mixture! Bake that baby at 350 for about 40-45 minutes! Once it is completely cooled, you are ready for the glaze!

Let's talk Chocolate Glaze, can we? Why I love a good glaze…not as sweet as frosting and adds the perfect touch, PLUS looks so stink in' pretty drizzled over cakes! So I have to tell you something, this Chocolate Glaze recipe is kind of special. It happens to come from my best friends mother. Now this mother just isn't any mother, she is a darn good-root-tootin' mother and granny. On with the Glaze!

Granny's Glaze

1/4 cup cocoa

3 tblsp water

2 tblsp shortening

2 tblsp corn syrup

1 1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/4 tsp vanilla

Cook first ingredients until melted. Remove from heat. Beat in sugar and vanilla, blend well. Pour over cake.

And over the cake it went, just.like.that.

WOW

P.S. This pairs fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream - enjoy!

Teacher Appreciation Gift: Mohawk Rug #ilovemymohawkrug PLUS Giveaway

2014-03-11T09:10:00.001-07:00

Confession: I am so excited to share this fun with you! Creating a fun new space in Classrooms across the world can be done with Mohawk Rugs. They work instant wonders, cozy corners and bring smiles to both the Teacher and the Students. Don't believe me? Oh….just wait and read on.

Meet Mrs. Mason's brown rug. It serves it's purpose, gets the job done, houses 34 bums and 68 feet daily. The kids sit here everyday doing calendar, presenting about me posters and of course when Mrs. Mason reads to them they cozy up on this.

It was time. Time to bring in some Mohawk Rug-ness. I LOVE the varieties of styles that Mohawk offers. We went with something more on the neutral side in color, not too bold…just right. Are you ready to see her new space?

Will you take a look at that? I am in love. Fluffy, soft and oh my word so dang cozy! This Mohawk rug creates a fun space for learning, reading and teaching! It's a win win area for students and the teacher!

So we decided to give this rug to Mrs. Mason as a "Teacher Appreciation" gift. Of course I had to come up with a funny sign to incorporate it all together…because I am a nut like that. While Mrs. Mason was out at P.E. one afternoon, we set up her new Mohawk Rug and put the "You have been Rugged" sign in place. With my camera ready, I couldn't wait to see her reaction!

But wait: Look who really loves the rug…Mrs. Mason AND

The KIDS! Rolling around on all the softness..and caught saying:

"I love this rug"

"Look Mrs. Mason, I get to sit on 2 different colors in my spot"

"I could just lay here all day"

"Can someone hand me a book"

"It's so soft"

Perfect for relaxin' with buds..

and reading books!

You can clearly see how this Mohawk Rug brightened up this classroom. Will you look at those smiles?! Awesome stuff right there, just makes me happy!

Guess what? Surprise! It's your turn to win a free Mohawk Rug for a deserving Teacher today! That's right, let's help bring these fabulous rugs into every classroom…ready? GO! Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Did you ever see my family room get it's POP of color with a Mohawk Rug? You gotta check it out..amazing makeover!

Recipe for Fruit Dip

2014-03-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

It's Friday, Friday's are just rad. Friday's mean I get 2 full days of having all my boys home. Man is that the best! Guess what else Friday's mean … yep, Grandma Shirley is in the house! Now we have been munching on lots of fruit up in here lately! It's a great thing, don't get me wrong. But every now and then I would like a companion, say a dip dip or something. After finding this here Fruit Dip in my Grandmas Recipe Box… I am addicted! Bring on the fruit!

Now as for the recipe, it's a bit kind of like: Use your own judgements on the measurements. I didn't use a 32 oz. size yogurt, that's a lot of yogurt. I went with like 3 reg. size lime yogurts, 1 jar of Marshmallow Cream and some flaked coconut. That seemed to be good for my taste, but really just play with the recipe to your liking! It's a great tropical refreshing, great tasting fruit dip! Hope you give it a try!

Go ahead and print this Fruit Dip Recipe.. and enjoy! Enough said, have a great weekend!

Did you miss my last week Grandma Shirley's Recipe Box Recipe?
Here you go: Congo Bars!

As always, you can find ALL my tested and tried Grandma's recipes over on pinterest!

St. Patrick's Day Wreath & GOLD Blog Hop!

2014-03-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Green and Gold, what a powerful combo! I am in lucky love with my St. Patrick's Day Wreath. Creating this was very easy, very affordable and takes no time at all. A great quick craft that adds amazing door bedazzle flair!

What you need:

A straw wreath

natural colored fabric

green fabric

gold fabric

burlap

multi color yarn

shamrock template

glue gun/glue

*I purchased everything at Walmart. I would say the entire wreath cost me about $6-7.

Following the steps above you will create a super simple yet stunning Lucky St. Patricks Day Wreath!

It's your LUCKY day! We are rich in the GOLD project department. My girls and I put together an awesome collection: "all that GLITTERS" -- Click on any Glittering Photo and it will take you right to the awesome source! Also, clickable links found below ...

Girl Loves Glam -- Mint Spring Poka Dot Nail Art
Giggles Galore -- Shamrock Coaster
Smart Schoolhouse -- Pot Gold Telescope
52 Mantels -- DIY Home State Art
Crazy Little Projects -- Lucky Friend Printable Treat Tag
Classy Clutter -- Gold Shoe and Accessory Organizer
Four Marrs & One Venus -- Lucky Shamrock Wreath
The Cards We Drew -- Green and Gold Willow Wreath
The Happy Housie -- Ombre Spring Sign
That's What Che Said -- Chunky Gold Chain Bracelet

Get Your Chef On Challenge MARCH Sign Ups!

2014-03-04T07:24:00.004-08:00

Back in action with yet another round of Get Your Chef On! Step right up and see if YOU have what it takes to be the Next GYCO Winner! Don't let the challenge scare ya, it's a fun one I promise, so join in will ya?!

If this is your first GYCO cooking challenge, WELCOME!! Check out the Get Your Chef On to get all the details and see what you are missing out on! So as the challenge goes, we give you a "secret ingredient" and you cook/work your magic! Easy as pie!

What
are
we
cooking
with
for
the
month
of
March
?
?
?

We're cooking with potatoes!

Gotta love those potatoes, so get that thinking cap on and get cooking! And, just so you don't forget who you're competing against to take the Get Your Chef On title from, let's take a look at Jam's Hands winning post from the last GYCO shrimp round.

Spicy Creole Shrimp Dip. WOW

You can check out all the GYCO fun on Pinterest on our Get Your Chef On pin board and on Twitter and Instagram by following the #GYCOcookingchallenge hashtag. We'd love for you to follow your hosts so you can get ingredient inspiration and make sure to keep up on all future challenges.

Jen at Four Marrs & One Venus

Julie at White Lights on Wednesday

How to Join:

Link your blog's home page to the linky list below.
Create a NEW recipe showing off this month's secret ingredient - potatoes.
Post your recipe to your blog on March 18th st by 8am. Please do not post before this day.
The winner will be announced March 25th, and will receive coveted sidebar space on both co-hosts blogs.