Momma Hen's Frugal Life

I need your help again- You will be rewarded for your great-ness!

2012-05-31T10:03:00.000-07:00

These are just a few of the family fun , down home, comfort food recipes you will find in my column in FOLK magazine:

edible birds nest recipe

poor mans donut recipe

iced coffee recipe will be in issue V - coming soon!

Only one problem. My column doesn't have a name. That's where you come in ! You have one day , today , to help me come up with a name for my column. Leave a comment telling me what you think the name of my column in FOLK magazine should be . If I choose the name you suggested you will win a FULL YEARS SUBSCRIPTION  to FOLK for FREE as a big , giant  , " Thank You!!" 

Enter into the giveaway:

Leave a comment - What should my column in FOLK magazine be called ?(feel free to leave more than one)

Winner will be announced tomorrow June 1st - Hurry and tell your friends too!

If you would like to see some of my other recipes click HERE or visit my food blog HERE

By the way- I have a living room make-over reveal coming next week!!!

Be sure to join me on Facebook to see what's going on between posts.

pepsi crates to the rescue!

2012-05-24T05:54:00.000-07:00

Earlier in the week I shared with you my crate wall storage and got a really good reaction. 

I love crates as storage. They are slim line and the perfect size for so many occasions. I've used them quite a bit .

I use them as extra storage under a coffee table, to hide toys or unsightly extras.

They are the perfect size as dvd/game storage. In this project I removed the stubborn drawers that didn't open and replaced them with easy access crates. 

In my sons room I used them to stow away his book collection. 

and I even use them as photo props!

I lucked out and found all of my pepsi crates for a little over $1 a piece because we bought so many of them. Otherwise, they can be pretty pricey. Keep an eye out for the "off brand" soda crates, they tend to be cheaper. 

What would you use a soda crate for?

an update from the Springfield antique show/FOLKbarn

2012-05-23T07:08:00.001-07:00

 When we pulled up to the Springfield antique show and I saw this....I knew this was going to be an amazing experience. 

I put my blinders on and ventured off to the FOLKbarn. I wasn't going to be there long. So, no time to shop. I was there to help out all my FOLK's in the FOLKbarn. So, off I went . I couldn't help but notice out of the corner of my eye all the spectacular junkie finds occupying all of the vendor spaces along the way. Mark my words, I will be there next year to shop!

I finally made it to the FOLKbarn and was blown away by the talent of the FOLK staff. This was just an empty barn just days before and they made it look so comfy, cozy, and as if it were straight out of the pages of FOLKmagazine. 

 the barn was packed full of the most talented vendors.

 I wish I would have taken more pictures. I didn't even get any pictures of me with the FOLK's of FOLK! 

oops. 

 bye bye Springfield, see you next year!

I also want to give my husband a big ,gargantuan THANK YOU for taking off work for a couple days,hauling me and the family hours away from home, occupying the kids in a town where there's nothing much to do, all so I can go help out at the FOLKbarn for a few hours. Sorry ladies, I have taken the best man in the world and I'm never letting him go! 

Whatever Wednesday link party has been canceled due to technical problems with Linky tools ....See you next week!!

Pepsi crates and a ladder to good use

2012-05-22T09:12:00.000-07:00

My most popular post to date. This bathroom was a horrible, nasty place to visit. I did a quick freebie make-over and made it so much more bearable.

To see more about the make-over click one of the photos or click HERE.

I have much more intended for this space . But , there is so many more important projects to work on throughout our entire house.

Our gigantic make-over in the living room has been put on hold, once again. We are waiting for carpet and it will be complete. yay!

Until the carpet arrives I've been piddling around the rest of the house doing some "re-design." I love to go in and switch some things around to give a space a whole new life. Just by swapping a few items around the house , a room can feel like a whole new space and that definitely puts a smile on my face. I love a fresh new feel!

I have super-de-duper special guest coming to stay with us in a couple weeks.My mommy!! I haven't seen her in TWO years! We chat daily , of course. But, I can't wait to actually be able to sit down with her and talk face to face and watch her with her grandkids . Since she will be traveling by plane she wont be able to bring a lot of her personal things and I want to be able to make her feel at home . So, I decided to add some storage , extra linens , and some comfort items to our guest bathroom. 

I didn't go out and spend a bunch of money on a storage unit. You know better than that! 

I simply snatched up some junk from my storage building and put them to good use. 

This has been the most effective use of space and usable storage I've had yet in my home. By easily attaching these pepsi crates the wall added a rustic look, slim line storage without taking up any space and keeps everything right at reach . That way guests don't feel like they are digging through your personal things just to grab a roll of toilet paper or a hand towel. 

I also propped up a ladder to aid in a relaxing bath and to keep a few things just in reach while relaxing in a bubble bath.

This bathroom appears larger than it actually is in photos. A hutch, table, or any other type of storage just doesn't work in this small space. 

What kind of junk do you have laying around that you can utilize as storage?

A blast from the past

2012-05-21T16:37:00.000-07:00

I was updating my "furniture" tab and realized a few pieces were missing from my blog. When I switched from WordPress back to Blogger I ended up losing a lot of my posts.

A couple years back While I was searching through Craigslist I saw this:

"old metal dresser" and it  intrigued my interest . The only place I've seen metal furniture is in Anthropology.

or Restoration Hardware

Which, I CAN NOT afford!

I clicked on the listing , immediately called the seller and marked it sold! 

I wish I could find the before picture to show you what it looked like! 

Here is a photo I found online that sort of shows what it looked like before. 

source

Except mine was faux painted to look like wood grain. Anyone actually know why dressers were made from metal and made to look like wood? I would love to know! I have heard they were made in the 40's . But, that's all I know.

I wanted an industrial look . So, I begged and pleaded my husband to remove every square inch of paint with his grinder and he even gave it a good clear coat. 

I added some glass knobs to make sure it wasn't too masculine .

These are all old pictures and doesn't really show how amazing this piece is.

no smiles for momma

2012-05-17T14:05:00.001-07:00

Today was a gorgeous day out side, not too hot and not too cold. My oldest son was at school so me and my youngest were outside strolling around and finding something to get into . 

Against his will I started snapping photos of him. He wasn't thrilled. But, little did he know they still made the cutest pictures. With or without a smile. 

I'll be headed out to the Springfield antique show and flea market tomorrow. If you are out and about be sure to stop by and say , "hello!"

Have a good weekend!

WhateverWednesday link party

2012-05-16T05:12:00.000-07:00

This is probably one of my favorite link-ups on WhateverWednesday so far

Anythingology created this light fixture out of the unthinkable So creative!

Anythingology

That doesn't mean there weren't some other great links. I loved this arrangement Pressing on created. I want a ladder shelf . So cute!

Pressing On

I love doors crafts and aqua is my favorite color . So this project that Life We Live 4 created is right up my alley. A variation of this would make a perfect potting bench. hhmm....I think I may have to come up with something. I have just the spot!

Life we Live 4

Before we start the link up I wanted to remind you about the Springfield OH antique show and flea market. Will you be there?

Mark your calendars May 18,19,20th

Hope to see you there! 

source

Whatever Wednesday link party :

Link up anything and everything (within reason-use your best judgement)

have fun and visit some friends !

Are you ready?!

2012-05-15T05:52:00.000-07:00

It's almost here!! After a change of plans, I will be headed to Springfield , OH to visit the Springfield antique show bright and early Saturday morning. I can't wait to see all of the amazing vintage and antique finds and to finally meet the editor and staff of FOLK magazine.

Will you be there?

Get your coupon HERE

On May 18th, at 7 AM,
'the doors of FOLKbarn at the Springfield Antique Show will open, 
and you'll be transported into the pages of our magazine brought to life...
we've assembled a selection of vendors of antique, vintage, and artisan goods
that will delight and inspire you! '

source

 For more information on the FOLKbarn visit the event information on FB

See all of the AMAZING vendors that will be in FOLKbarn.

source

For more information about the Springfield ,OH antique show & flea market visit their official site HERE.

source

I hope to see you there!!

Indulge in this sweet treat

2012-05-14T06:08:00.002-07:00

Hop on over to my food blog to see how to make these scrumptious banana beauties !

click here to be magically transported

Happy Happy Happy

2012-05-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

Mothers day to all the momma's out there!

I hope you all have a fabulous day.

I want to wish the very best mother a very special Happy Mothers Day!! I love you momma!

and here is your virtual Mothers Day gift *wink*

an unlimited amount of hours in the day to Pin all the crazy , most unheard of, bazaar, yet hilarious pins that you want

source

A closet to hang up all your "clothes"


source

A big giant box of Lucky Charms (yum!)

source

a zombie survival kit (just in case)

source

last but not least : 
A one way plane ticket ,for you and Mike ,bound for Kentucky so you can NEVER leave!! 

 I love you mom! Happy Mothers Day. I hope your day is full of unlimited giggles!

Mine-What's yours?

2012-05-10T07:29:00.000-07:00

My favorite furniture make-over 

 before:

After: 

aahhh...the power of a good make-over.

What's your favorite furniture make-over?

WhateverWednesday link party

2012-05-09T08:01:00.001-07:00

Lately I've been missing my furniture make-over adventures. This piece from Dirt stains & paint has me wanting to paint a piece really soon. I am in love with the beachy feeling of this piece.

These lil' cuties are hiding a couple big secrets. Stop over and visit Life on Walnut street to see !

Since Spring hit I've been looking for some indoor plant ideas. This one (and the one above) is super cute and easy to achieve. I need to make a shopping trip to recreate these!

Visit lechateaudesfleurs to see how this one is made.

What have you been working on?

Whatever Wednesday link party :

Link up anything and everything (within reason-use your best judgement)

have fun and visit some friends !

By the way- Do you like the new look here on the blog? 

iheartfaces photo challenge

2012-05-08T13:17:00.002-07:00

Do you remember the cute couple that I did my first pregnancy photo shoot for? They are having baby #2 and I got the chance to do it again! This weeks photo challenge over at iheartfaces is "Hey girl!" I wanted to start entering their contests again . So, this is the lucky entry from the pregnancy shoot.

Wish me luck! Hop over and see all the amazing photos that were entered in this weeks challenge

rambling update on things to come

2012-05-04T11:03:00.001-07:00

Are you totally bored with my blog the last couple of months? Aside from all the super creative links on WhateverWednesday I haven't had any completed projects featured here. I have so many projects going on right now. But, I just can't seem to get any of them finished!!

This weekend should (should!) be full of finished projects. 

I woke up this morning and made myself a scrumptious breakfast

Then photographed it , of course. I am trying to work on my photography and I've always hear practice makes perfect. Since working with FOLK magazine  , I've realized how much I love food photography. Figures, considering I've never heard of anyone NEEDing a food photographer. I suppose when the opportunity rises, I'll be ready. 

Back on topic, I ate breakfast , cleaned house, and prepared a check list of things I need to get done this weekend. 

First and foremost : The livingroom! I have kept you guys waiting for a reveal for how long now? Seems like a year!

Also, I started an outdoors project: fish pond. Not your average fish pond of course. I'm creating a fish pond out of a claw foot tub. A few years ago I scored not only one, but two claw foot tubs on craigslist for FREE! I don't really need them both in my home. So, I decided to put it to good use.

I have the water conditioning (has to wait 24 hours) before I can add the fish. This little garden space is far from done. However, I can already imagine how fabulous it's going to be!! 

I would also like to finish off this cobble stone path this weekend

oh , and as if I don't have enough to finish, we purchased this really great cottage style door (for only $25!!)  I hope to get it on the house and working too.

So, what are you going to do this weekend?

come over and visit and get a scrumptious pineapple upside down cake recipe

2012-05-03T05:58:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite desserts is pineapple upside down cake . However, I usually steer clear of making this sweet treat because of the amount of time you have to put into creating it. Baking is such a relaxing , therapeutic task. However, it does take time, precision, and makes quite the mess! I like to find short cut ways to bake and get an almost exact outcome. That way I'm not spending all day in the kitchen and still get the sweet treat I'm craving. 

Over on my food blog 'Around the Rustic Table' I shared my quick and easy pineapple upside down cake recipe that can be prepared in 5 minutes , bake in around 20 and then it's time to indulge !

Stop over and visit my newest blog and maybe gain some new followers? It's quite lonely over there. Don't forget to "pin" your favorite recipes for later use.

WhateverWednesday link party

2012-05-02T10:42:00.000-07:00

You guys are the best. Any time I need help you are all there to give me your advice . With over whelming results , your favorite was #3

Keep an eye out for my bio and recipes in FOLK magazine, now available in Barnes & Noble everywhere!

Last week on WhateverWednesday you all were super stars and linked up the best projects!

FolkHaven linked up the most adorable chair that is not only cute as a button, but makes me laugh at the thought of nesting the babies while sitting in the chair! I may steal this idea.

Re-invent Re-imagine REPOSHTURE linked up a tripod skipole lamp . Can you believe how creative? This looks like it came straight out of the pages of Pottery Barn!

The last couple weeks Cooking with Blondie has had me drooling over her beautiful food creations

mmmm....

Whatever Wednesday link party :

Link up anything and everything (within reason-use your best judgement)

have fun and visit some friends !

I need your help

2012-04-26T05:37:00.002-07:00

I'm working on a bio for an upcoming article in FOLK magazine. You would think that would be easy, it's about me. I guess I worry too much.

I think I have that part under wraps (thanks mom!)

However, I also need to add a photo of myself. I think a lot of people can relate when I say , " I hate taking pictures of myself."

So, here's where you come in.

Help me choose which photo is magazine worthy. Pretty please.

1,2,or 3?

Make sure you get your copy of FOLK magazine . Also, have your heard about FOLKbarn in Springfield , OH ? I'll be there! I hope to meet you there too . They are still accepting vendors for this show, stop over FOLK blog if you think you may be interested.

WhateverWednesday link party

2012-04-25T05:48:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday!! Like I mentioned yesterday , I haven't been getting much of anything done lately. It's Spring so that means lots of this

and this

source

and enjoying lots of this

What have you been doing on these beautiful Spring days? 

Whatever Wednesday link party :

Link up anything and everything (within reason-use your best judgement)

have fun and visit some friends !

Just a hello

2012-04-24T10:02:00.000-07:00

Hey there! I haven't written a post in quite a while. I don't really have any updates or projects. I have, however, been cleaning my house . Which is a huge accomplishment here lately. I can't seem to get anything done! I'm sure you all can relate , right?

I've been trying to work on my photography skills and figure out different settings on my camera. So, I went out today with one of my cute little "subjects" and did a quick photo shoot. 

Enjoy some pure cuteness: 

Have you been getting anything accomplished lately?

See you tomorrow for WhateverWednesday link party!

Mary Mary quite contrary how does your garden grow?

2012-04-19T14:01:00.001-07:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Whitney Farms. All opinions are 100% mine.

"Spring" came so early this year. The trees were blooming and turned green before Spring was actually here. After the first day of Spring hit my bushes started to bloom the most beautiful flowers and then a frost hit....It figures. Thank goodness a few days later I went out to check on the most beautiful arrangement of pink blooms.

Click HERE for entire post and for a special coupon!

calling all bloggers and Etsy shop owners!

2012-04-13T06:58:00.002-07:00

APRIL MADNESS !!

Usually I giveaway a FREE AD SPACE on FACEBOOK.

 But,  I didn't give away a free ad space this month 

That's okay!
 you're in luck! Buy an adspace between NOW and the end of April and get
 your first month FREE!! 

Don't like you space after one month? No 
problem! Cancel at no charge. HURRY!! Get your space NOW!!

E-mail me at mommahenscoop@hotmail.com for questions, more information, or to reserve your space now!! 

:: Ad space information :: 

Broken down details: 

E-mail me , tell me your interested. You will get a free 125x125 ad space for the entire month of May (ad will be posted May 1,2012) 

On June 1st if you are satisfied then, and only then, will you continue with your purchase of an ad space (for one month, three months, or a year, or more!)

If you aren't satisfied...you walk away with your free month and are not obligated to purchase. 

Hope to hear from you soon!!

Apple pie for one

2012-04-11T16:27:00.001-07:00

Being the only one in my house that likes adores apple pie . I rarely get the chance to indulge the classic sweet treat. 

After writing the apple dumpling recipe I had one apple and 1/4 sheet of
 puff pastry. I wasn't going to allow that to go to waste. Especially 
when I had these super duper cute bunt dishes that used to be my moms. 
Some how miraculously I've managed to hold on to two of these and have 
never used them!

...until today.

I  love more than just apples in my apple pie. I love apple pieces with a
 little bit of a bite and I also love when they turn to a mush. So, when
 I make my apple pie I add apple sauce . This not only gives me my two 
favorite textures , it replaces the sugar!

If you have kids you probably have these little apple sauce cups. These are what we'll use in this mini pie.

Quick combined apple sauce, cinnamon, cloves ...that's it!

stretch puff pastry over the top, brush with egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top (optional)

bake for 30 min. or until golden brown and tada!!

Apple pie for one:

Ingredients -
1/4 sheet of puff pastry
1 granny smith apple peeled and sliced
1 small cup of apple sauce
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 small pinch of ground cloves
optional: egg wash and sugar for dusting

directions-
Preheat oven to 350 deg. F
spray dish with cooking spray (It's not necessary to use a bundt pan)
In a bowl combined apple slices, cinnamon, cloves and apple sauce
pour mixture in baking dish
stretch puff pastry over the top of the baking dish filled with apple mixture , making sure sides are secure.
brush with egg wash and dust with sugar
using a knife make three small slits in pastry to allow heat to escape

April MADNESS ad space deal!! FREE!!

2012-04-11T06:26:00.001-07:00

APRIL MADNESS !!

Usually I giveaway a FREE AD SPACE on FACEBOOK.

 But,  I didn't give away a free ad space this month 

That's okay!
 you're in luck! Buy an adspace between NOW and the end of April and get
 your first month FREE!! 

Don't like you space after one month? No 
problem! Cancel at no charge. HURRY!! Get your space NOW!!

E-mail me at mommahenscoop@hotmail.com for questions, more information, or to reserve your space now!! 

:: Ad space information :: 

WhateverWednesday link party

2012-04-10T12:49:00.001-07:00

Last week on WhateverWednesday

 21 Rosemary Lane  shared how to make homemade chalk paint. I really need to write this one down for future use!

Cookin' up good times 

shared a 'kool way to dye eggs' I can't wait to try this next year! The colors are so much more fun than the dye kits we normally buy. 

I had to share Take Six 's table scape

Her photography is so pretty!

Thank you all for the great links!

What did YOU work on this week? 

Whatever Wednesday link party :

Link up anything and everything (within reason-use your best judgement)

have fun and visit some friends !

If you were featured feel free to grab a featured button on the left side bar! 

After linking up I would love to invite you all over to my FOOD BLOG! I would love if you all decide to follow me there too and hopfully get some yummy recipes for yourself!

click to be transported

Happy Easter!

2012-04-08T03:57:00.002-07:00