Cup Of Jo

$500 Giveaway!!

2014-05-28T21:08:00.001-07:00

I know I've been on the down low (or totally absent) lately, but I've still been able to contribute over at Ask Anna! I'd like to think that's o.k., because I need some time to get other things in order and unfortunately, blogging has to take a back seat! I've still been cooking and taking pictures of everything, so when I do get back to the bloggy world, I'll have a lot of belly rubbing recipes to share!

Today, I'd like to invite you to an informational, yet fun EVENT (Public on Facebook) that I'm putting on with an amazing business partner of mine, Emily! Yes, one of the things I've been getting in order! I'm building my business to ensure I can stay home, craft, cook and continue to be a stay at home mom with my daughter!

We'll be giving away $500 worth of Rodan+Fields products! Maybe you've heard of them, maybe you haven't, but these products, from the doctors that created ProActive, are nothing to miss out on! They pack a powerful punch with results! I've continued to be thrilled with my skin and I'm 43 now!!

This is after using a regiment for aprx. 8 months....but I'd be happy to share my 1 month results if you'd like!!

This is my one year picture!! I'm no Cameron Diaz, but I'm feeling pretty darn good for my age! Plus, it feels pretty darn good to help others feel good as well!

These products work for brown spots, dullness, sun damage, redness, sensitive skin, fine lines, wrinkles and so much more!!! What would you change??

I'd love for you to jump over and join the fun! {Remember, Kristy sent ya!}
If you're not on Facebook or have problems joining the event, feel free to email me @
kristyscupofjo@gmail.com !! I'll get ya hooked up and answer any questions you may have!!

Hope to see you there! AND....I hope to be back blogging, my happy place, when the Summer gets in full swing!!

Enjoy!!

Kristy

Kid Friendly New Year's Eve~

2013-12-31T12:41:00.002-08:00

It's New Year's Eve!!

Looking for a little kid friendly fun?? Jump over to Ask Anna to see what we're up to!! Stay safe and get those New Year's Resolutions ready!

Cheers to an amazing 2014!

Hardy White Chili~

2013-11-04T12:32:00.001-08:00

This is an amazing Fall favorite in our house!

My husband loves spicy, but my daughter and I aren't fans of the heat, so this is the perfect happy medium for our household!

This is another one that I got from my good 'ol BFF, Peggy from Las Vegas!

{Used to be Salt Lake City, but she's married now, woo hoo and moved!}

What you'll need:

1 Medium Onion

1# of boneless skinless chicken breast

2 cans Great Northern Beans

1 Can chicken broth

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 cup of water

1 can chopped green chili's

1 can mexi corn

1 tsp salt

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp oregano

What you'll do:

Saute 1 lb of chicken cut up in chunks and 1 medium onion in 1-1/2 TBS of oil - {You can also use canned chicken from Costco and it works.... my girlfriend calls it the lazy way, I say for those without any extra time!}

Seriously, this is SO DARN GOOD!

Word of caution because everyone's taste buds have a mind of their own!...Although there's not a ton of "heat" added, the chopped green chili's do add a bit of "zip" to it when simmering! I've put it into separate pots for the "heat" sensitive, because it adds just enough to be considered spicy for some!

Enjoy!!

Kristy

Halloween party ideas~ on a budget!

2013-10-25T11:26:00.000-07:00

With Halloween right around the corner...what are you planning??

We had a bit of fun last week! Jump over to Ask Anna and check out our budget friendly party fun!

The twist on spaghetti was my favorite!

Upcycled Thrift Store side table~

2013-09-24T11:00:00.003-07:00

My Mother-In-Law has an obsession with clocks! I haven't even tried to count the crazy amount of them in her house, so when I stumbled across this little guy, I KNEW it was meant to be!

I was at the thrift store trying to find something of a "vintage" nature for a friend to wear for a Victorian show. On my way out, I walked passed this little table!

Immediately I saw sanding and paint for the perfect birthday present!

The process looked like this!

Now' I've ready many things out using different paint and not having to sand, but I've got it embedded in my head to sand, so therefore I do!

It turned out perfect and looks SO MUCH better black!!

Annnnnd....I'm back on the hunt for the perfect gift...

I liked it so much I kept it for our house!!

Cheetah Baby Shower

2013-09-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

Recently I helped a sweet friend of mine with her daughter's baby shower! I think it turned out pretty darn cute! Jump over and check it out at ask anna! Get ready to stay awhile too if you're in the mood to get ORGANIZED!! She's got some amazing ideas over there!!

Co-Hosting The Inspirational Gallery link party!!!

2013-09-19T16:00:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon ya'll!!

I'm thrilled to be Co-hosting with these Ahh-MAZING ladies today!!

I'd love to see what you've been up to and what you've created!

Grab a Cup Of Jo, tea or beverage of choice and enjoy the beautiful projects at

The Inspiration Gallery!

Decorating with nature

One mantel four ways

FREE shipping on Society 6

Simple fall decor

Keep in touch with me via

Please help us welcome this week's co host Kristy from A cup of Jo - love that name!

Picture ladder / Home Sweet Home Wreath/

Ghost Pretzels / Fall Burlap Wreath

Connect with Kristy: Blog, Pinterest

Rustic Industrial desk

Fall vignette by Golden Sycamore
Corn Husk table setting
Stamped tea towels by Love Grows Wild

Keep in touch with Taryn via: Blog, FB, Pinterest, Bloglovin, Twitter

Dollar Store DIY Lampshade

2013-09-18T12:07:00.001-07:00

Looking for a inexpensive way to add bright light and a cheery feel to the room? Jump over and check out my lamp at

Thrify and Thriving!

Old Ladder Picture Collage

2013-09-17T20:07:00.000-07:00

It seems like when I FINALLY have time to fit some well needed crafting in, that everything goes KABOOM and I don't have time to share it! Well, I've been lucky enough to Co-host and be a regular contributor at some pretty amazing blogs, so I better step up my game! This ladder has been collecting dust in my bedroom for years! Then, one night while getting my nightly "Pin" on, I found my inspiration here. It's a different ladder, but they all have space between the steps! I thought about painting it black, but quickly changed my mind and left it in it's natural state! It's warm, country and fits in perfectly with my "new room"! I'll be sharing all the little details of that soon! Not to mention, this was a super easy project, but makes a big statement! I used 2 tiny hooks under each step and 2 on the top of each frame, then hooked them together! I used three 4 x 6 frames for the top three steps and 5 x 7's for the bottom three. With a little paint, they all match! LOVE IT!

Creating the Naked Egg~

2013-08-10T13:43:00.001-07:00

Make sure to jump over to Thrifty & Thriving to see this fun project I shared that the kids will LOVE!

I have to say, I was pretty impressed as well!

Hope you're having a fabulous weekend!

Crack Weenies~

2013-08-05T12:05:00.002-07:00

It seems like we're always having little get togethers or being invited to some little shin-dig throughout the year and I'm not one to go empty handed.

I have my traditional salads and chips 'n dips, but this is a new fav!!

I've seen it flying around "Pinterestphere" many times, but I found mine here.

Now, it's not on the most healthy, fat conscience treat,

but we have to splurge every once in awhile right?!? {I'm sure I splurge a bit more than I should!}

It's another quick, easy and taste bud teasing mix!

At a little ladies night at my house, the plate was empty and I was asked it there were any more!

I think one gal was ready to lick the plate! Ha ha!

What you need:

1 pound of bacon {Cut into 1/3rd or 1/4th}

1 pound of little smokies

1 stick of butter melted

2 cups of brown sugar

What you'll do:

Preheat the oven to 375

Take each little smokie and wrap it in a piece of bacon

Put them in a baking dish (9 x 13)

Take the stick of butter and 1 cup of brown sugar and mix it together

Pour the mixture all over the pan of smokies

Take the last cup of sugar and sprinkle it all over the top

Bake for aprx. 20 minutes and then turn the oven on broil for about 5 min. to crisp the bacon!

You don't need to move it up to a higher wrack, just leave it in the middle!

When they were done I stuck a fancy toothpick in each one and placed it on a serving tray!

That's it, but it will be a huge hit!

With football season kickin in, this is a must have!!

Enjoy your

Living Room ~ Before & After

2013-08-02T08:56:00.000-07:00

It's truly amazing what a simple coat of paint will do for an object or a room!

I'm an open addict about my obsession with paint!

I dabble with paint all the time, but it's always a larger canvas when my husband goes away on his yearly golf trip!

Last year it was our bathroom, laundry room and our daughters room!

This year it was our living room and our daughters room. Yes, Kiley's room got yet another coat of paint! After all, she is a year older! {SMILE!} Did I mention I'm a Paint-A-holic??

My husband had an idea that I was thinking of slapping some paint in the living room before he left and of course, he hemmed n' hawed about it and didn't think it needed to be done.

Well, how wrong he was and believe it or not, I think he'll even admit it! Not straight out, but he has said more than a handful of times how great it looks and what a difference in the warmth of the room it makes!

Yes honey, I was right and you're welcome!! {Happy Dance-Happy Dance!}

Here's what it looked like before...

And to be totally honest, my "before" was blurred, so I had to photo shop this one back to the "before"!

Tah`dah....

The nice cozy warmth of a new coat of paint!!

I LOVE IT and love how the decor stands out now!!

What Before and Afters have you done with paint?

Feel free to leave a link of your masterpiece in the comments! I'd love to check it out and share!

Enjoy your

Kristy

Jalapeno Poppers~

2013-07-30T17:35:00.000-07:00

When planning a get together a spicy, hot or zippy appetizer is not usually on my menu.

I usually go for the more traditional treats, but I'll definitely be branching out after tasting this!

When we were in Texas my dad whipped up this little bit of zip! Now I'm not crazy about spicy things. I can do a salsa or peanut sauce, but I don't go for the heat like my husband!

This Jalapeno Popper is the perfect combination of flavor and spice! The "Popper" itself isn't all that hot once you clean and remove the seeds from the pepper, but the sauce...now that's a different story! I liked it exactly like the recipe I'm sharing, but you can turn it up or down to your liking!

For the peppers you simply need:

Jalapenos cut in half, cleaned with seeds and pulp removed

Small slices of Monterrey Jack Cheese

Bacon, cut into aprx. 1 1/2 - 2 inch pieces

Shrimp, cut in half down the middle

*Take 1/2 of pepper, place 1/2 pc of shrimp in it, top with slice of cheese and top with a small slice of bacon.

Place in oven on broil for long enough for the bacon to sizzle and you should see the shrimp turning pink on the outside.

For the Sauce: {Captain Morgan Sauce}

1 Cup of Captain Morgan Spiced Rum

1 Cup brown sugar

2 Tablespoons Franks hot sauce

Pat of butter

*Mix Captain Morgans and Brown sugar together in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer until the alcohol is gone.

Melt butter and mix in Franks hot sauce~ then pour into CM & brown sugar mixture.

Ready for drizzling over the Poppers and to eat!

These are seriously REALLY crazy good!

Enjoy!

Kristy

Homemade Heart Flag~

2013-07-12T10:22:00.002-07:00

Years later and I still LOVE my cricut!!

I can hear my hubby asking, "Do you really need that? Won't it just end up in the closet?"

No, no and absolutely NOT! I'm surprised at how much I've used it! It was more than worth it to get up at 3a.m to hit the Black Friday Sale! Heck, I would have paid full price knowing what I know now! {But glad I didn't have too!}

I don't have every cartridge under the sun, like some, but I have a good handful. My go to favorites are Plantin Schoolbook (letters, hearts, shapes, gift bags) and

Serenade (trees, fruits, butterflies, flowers, bird cages).

For this little project I clearly needed hearts, which can be used on almost anything!

I started with this paper backing...

and quickly decided that it wasn't "rustic" enough to leave out for longer than the month of July.

So, I went to another love of mine, burlap! It warms anything up!

I cut a piece big enough to cover the back side,inked it up a bit to "weather" it and used spray adhesive to attach it.

Being addicted to inking, I inked all the edges of the hearts as well. It takes them from sticking out like a sore thumb, to warming into the project. I simply stuck those down with a glue stick!

This is where this little baby resides and I think it fits into my warm country decor year round if I so choose!

Don't you think a flag can stay out year round?

I think it wold have looked really cute with the blue being cut into stars as well...that was an after thought once it was completed! (;

Enjoy your

Kristy

Perscription for Change

2013-06-27T09:23:00.000-07:00

What would you change?...

Months ago I posted about taking a leap of faith and joined a Network Marketing group{I can almost hear the gasps...it's ok, let your breath out!} I didn't pick just any old company...I recognized the value of leveraging the global brand name of Proactive -with their fresh company Rodan+Fields! They're doing for aging what they've done for acne! After 6 months, I have to say, "THANK GOODNESS" I did!

It's formerly the #1 selling clinical brand in Nordstrom and other high end department stores! ~BUT they realized that by word of mouth they could reach SO many more people! Sooo, they took their leap of faith , pulled out of department stores and well, ...here I am!

Their Mission: to bring dermatology-based skin products to everyone without the appointments!
These producst are seriously just under the radar of needing a perscription!

I love having my own home based business! I'm home with my daughter, I'm helping others and I'm making a monthly income!

I absolutely LOVE that the products I share, I absolutely LOVE! They've done wonders for so many, including me! Yep, here's my before and afters again!

Now don't get me wrong, I realize network markeing isn't for everyone, but it's definitely for me! With Quizno's, my busy little bean, her school, fundraising and everything else I try to squeeze in, this fits perfectly into my life style!

If there's one thing you'd change about your skin, what would it be? I'd love to help find what works for you! {For aprx. $2.45/day wouldn't it be worth it to look and feel your best?!}
Check out the products here!

Maybe you've been thinking of ways to stay at home with the kids, have more free time, travel more, make a little {or a lot} of extra fun money, have extra funds to support a cause near and dear to your heart...MAYBE this might be a good fit for you? I'd love to chat and let you pick my brain! Heck, a conversations free! And if you know this isn't for you personally, I totally repsect that, but maybe you can connect me to some dynamite people in your market! I give cash money for new business partners! (:
See the business scoop here!

Imagine if you jumped on board with these 2 ladies when they created Proactive!?!?!

I'm not pushing my business on you and there's no pressure, I'm simply sharing what's working for me!

I'd be most appreciative if you'd check out and support by liking/ sharing my Facebook business page here!

I support small business...have one you want me to share??

Have a great day! And stay tunned for a fun little 4th

of July craft coming up next!!

Confetti Popcorn Recipe

2013-06-25T08:45:00.002-07:00

Want a winning Popcorn Recipe in your pocket to make, share and enjoy over and over again?!?

Jump over Thrifty & Thriving to see what I whipped up!!

You won't be disappointed!

Warning: Easy to eat waaaay more than you should!!

Enjoy!

Kristy

French Toast Bake~

2013-05-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

With Summer QUICKLY approaching and the chances of having family and friends to visit high, this is an amazing "go to" dish for breakfast! What's even better is that you make it the night before! In the morning all you have to do is preheat the oven before you sit to enjoy a cup of coffee {or beverage of choice} with your company!

It's sure to be crowd pleaser and you'll definitely get asked to make it again and again! Oh, and ya might as well make copies of the recipe because they'll be asking!

Plus, if you've been around here long enough, you know I like quick & easy!!! So, here it goes...

Grocery List:

1 loaf French bread cut into 1" slices
6 eggs
1 1/2 C. milk
8 TBS. sugar (divided 5 and 3)
1 tsp. vanilla
1/8 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
4 Granny Smith apples
3 TBS. butter or margarine

What to do:

Spray 9X13 pan.
Arrange the bread in a single layer
Beat eggs and whisk in milk, 3 TBS sugar, vanilla and salt.
Pour over bread
Combine the remaining sugar with cinnamon (set aside)
Peel, core and slice the apples into half moons or rings
Put 1/2 the apples on top of the bread, sprinkle with 1/2 the sugar/cinnamon mix
Put remaining apples on top of that and sprinkle with remaining sugar/cinnamon mix
Take the 3 TBS of butter and cut into little sticks and place all over the top of the apples
Cover and refrigerate overnight. (I've been told you can let it sit for an hour and it works too)
Ready to bake: Preheat oven to 400, bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until apples are tender.
Let stand 5 minutes before serving

One way to tell if it's getting close to being done is the apples will be tender, but the bread swells up nice and puffy! Once out of the oven it falls back down!

Grab your syrup and get ready to ooohhh and awwwww.....
You can add extra, but usually what you cook it with is plenty!

Enjoy!!

Kristy

Make sure to jump over to Thrifty & Thriving to
get all kinds of savings and check out a Fabulous Fun Summer Idea!

Reese's Smore Bars~

2013-04-02T09:39:00.001-07:00

This time of year feels like I put 10,000 pounds of sweets in my mouth....{maybe I do!}...it's like the bulk up in Spring before living on fresh fruits and veggies for the Summer! I'm not complaining by any means!

We have so many birthdays in March n' April along with holidays, that I'm always looking for new recipes! This one my husband said, "This is Devil's Food!...It keeps pulling you back to eat more!" Seriously, it is sinfully good!

Not only am I an addict for Snickers, but Reese's Cups come at an amazingly close second! For some reason the peanut butter eggs at Easter taste even better! I stock up and put them in the freezer! When I "need" one, I pull it out, let it thaw for 15 min and then eat it quickly so that my daughter doesn't see me!...Only because I'm always telling her to "make a healthy choice!" {It's for her own good, as I scarf chocolate down my mouth in privacy!..There must be something wrong with me, but I'm not ready to fix it quite yet!}

Anyhoo, onto what you'll need to make these delicious bars!~

Cookie dough~ right off of the Nestle Toll House Semi-Sweet Morsels bag! {Chocolate chips!}

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 cup butter softened (2 sticks)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 large eggs
(Leaving out the chocolate chips!!)
1 big bag of regular size Reese's Peanut butter cups
1 jar of marshmellow fluff

Preheat oven to 375
Lightly spray your 9X13 with non stick spray
Line the bottom of a 9X13 baking dish with half of your cookie dough {press it down but don't compact it!}
On top of the cookie dough, line it with Reese's cups, top side facing down
Cover entire surface with marshmellow fluff

Cover the top with the remaining 1/2 of your cookie dough! It's a little tricky, but even if you have some clumps they cook out flat!
Bake for aprx. 20 minutes (cooking time varies on your own oven!)

I tasted something similar at a party and after asking about it, she make the dough differently, but this tasted almost the same! I also googled it...I'm not the best at breaking down a recipe on my own to make it... I found this one here!

With an ice cold glass of milk....Heavenly....ahhhhhh....

Enjoy!! Kristy

Want another super quick and amazing tasting little cookie?...Jump over to Thrifty and Thriving to check out these little bites of goodness!

Fresh Orozo Salad~

2013-03-06T16:28:00.001-08:00

Ok, I know it's a little cold out yet to be bustin' out the fun chilled Summer salads, but this is going to be an all year round little number! When it's hot outside it will double in yumminess! {That's a word right?!?HA!}

Here's what ya need:
Salad fixins
1 1/2 little cartons of cherry toms {cut into 3rds}
1/2 English cucumber {cut into fourths and thinly sliced}
1 small carton of Feta cheese
1 cup Orozo pasta {cooked as directed on box and rinsed with cold water when done}
1 large carrot shredded {or a big handful of preshredded}
1 teaspoon of finely chopped basil
1 teaspoon of finely chopped oregano
Dressing
2 Lemons {squeeze every dip of juice out ya can in a separate bowl}
1 Lime {Squeezing every dip of juice out in the same lemon juice bowl}
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 Cup Veg Oil
Salt and pepper....I seriously couldn't tell ya how much here...At least a teaspoon of each and then some shakes! {smile!}

First mix your dressing and set it aside.
Then, take all the above ingredients and mix together, except the feta cheese!
Now pour the dressing all over it and toss!! When your ready to eat, sprinkle with the Feta!

I found this to be even better the next day after all the goods had time to soak up the dressing. It made the citrus much more mild!
I found the original recipe here and it called for Garbanzo beans {yuck for me!} and avocado at the end. I would have added that if I would have had it on hand! Next time!!

Enjoy!

Kristy

Turning Back Father Time~REAL RESULTS!

2013-02-22T13:29:00.000-08:00

Yep, that's me kickin' Father Time in the Keester!!

I absolutely LOVE my skin "now" and want to share it with anyone and everyone that has skin!!

A little over a month ago, that wouldn't have been the case!

Back in December a sweet friend brought a new skin product to my attention.

To be honest the initial thought in my head was,

"Great, MORE SKIN CRAP that promises the world!!"

I had an arsenal of 6 different brands under my bathroom sink as she spoke, which all did diddly squat, but waste my money!!

Then she said something thing that caught my attention...

"It's from the doctors that created ProActive".

Ok., I know 4 gals off the top of my head that use that and it works for them...

Hmmm...I'm open to hear a bit more...

She proceeds to tell me how it used to be one of the number one sellers in Dillards, Neiman Marcus and Nordstroms.

{I love Nordie!!.. I'm sure she knew that would keep my attention!}

After the doctors realized it was spreading like wildfire by word of mouth because of ecstatic, happy consumers, they stepped out of the box and went into direct sales!

Now my thought went to, "Oh crap!, She's started a new business, now I HAVE to buy to support her new venture!"

So, I did...

THANK GOODNESS!!

The two wonderful doctors that created ProActive are doing for aging what they've done for Acne! It's a medicinal approach and IT WORKS!!

The proof is in my pictures!

Real person, REAL Results!!

I grew up in Texas. I would lay on a rock like a lizard in the sun with the only sunscreen being coconut baby oil! I've never been a huge moisturizing person and after my full hysterectomy {July 2012} my face n' entire body was feeling it and I'm 2 yrs past the 40yr old marker!

I was aging and feelin' it!!

This will sound like an info commercial, but truly and for real, I noticed a difference in one week. My tone was more even, spots were lighter {some were gone!} and there was an all over smooth feel to my skin!

My "ah-ha" moment was 4 1/2 weeks in though.

It was like a true transformation of my skin!

I'm on week 6 now and still have 2 weeks to see more changes!!

It's a big joke with my husband because I'll text him out of the blue about my "stinkin' amazing skin" or he'll text me something and say, "hey, at least you have great skin!"

I didn't realize how negative I had gotten about my looks, but I did. I was feeling old and frumpy!

Now I don't!! I'm no Cameron Diaz or Heidi Klum, but I'm Rockin' in my own skin and it feels fabulous!!!

So, what did I do????? I jumped on board to sell it!

AGAIN, THANK GOODNESS!!

With using the product and sharing my results first hand, it's opened the door for so many who want real results as well!

Within my first month I was able to pay for all my little ones extra curricular activities {Including my craft habit!}.

It's become my plan B, that I so desperately needed! Something I love and believe in that will help myself and others! WIN=WIN!

What would you change about your skin????....
Acne? Redness? Sun Damage? Wrinkles?

Use this little tool to see what's good for you!!

https://kreopelle.myrandf.com/Pages/OurProducts/GetAdvice/SolutionsTool

All products are 60 day supplies {looks like mines going to last a bit longer!} and they all have a 60 day Money back guarantee! No questions asked!!

This is 42 ~ Redefined!!

I use mineral peptides, mascara and lip gloss now~ THAT'S IT!!!

What are you waiting for??? If we're breathing, we're aging!!!

Don't hesitate to email me or call me with any questions you might have! { kristyscupofjo@gmail.com }

I'm looking for those that want to change their skin and if you're in the market to start your own business, new business partners as well!!

Want to browse around??...
http://kreopelle.myrandf.com/ {products}
http://kreopelle.myrandf.biz/ {business side of things}

I'm SOOO excited to see your results!!

Maybe I should give away a full regiment?!?!?

Hugs!

Kristy

Goulash~

2013-02-19T09:07:00.000-08:00

Although I've been planning ahead for meals and trying to keep "my game on", there's going to be days like yesterday {and today} that I can't escape the winter bug and feel like a truck ran me over at least 15 times!! BUT if your a mom and a wife {a woman!}, you're well aware~we usually don't have the luxury of down time!, We pull up our big girl pants and keep movin' on!
Although I have to say, last night I only moved from the couch to the the pantry, pulled out what I thought would go together and went with it! I may feel nasty, but this goulash did not!

Here's what I pulled out:
1 package ground beef {1.62#}
1 small yellow onion
1 can V8 Juice (pop can size)
1 Can Tomato sauce
2 cans small dices toms
1 can corn
1 1/2 cups elbow mac.
2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 Tbsp Italian seasoning
2 Tbsp Seasoning salt (Johnny's)
4 cups water
2 Tbsp minced garlic
3 shakes of salt and pepper each...you know what you like here!

I browned the ground beef with 1Tbsp of seasoning salt and the onion chopped in small chunks.
While that was browning I took all of the other ingredients except the macaroni and brought it to a low boil in a big pot.
I started a small pan of hot water and cooked the macaroni (I wonder if you could toss it in uncooked??).
After the big pot low boiled for ~20min. I tossed in the cooked macaroni, let it simmer for 15 and served!
Toss hot rolls with it and your good to go!! {My hubby ate 2 big 'ol bowls!}

This will be kept as a "go to meal" when I need something quick, easy, good and flavorful!!

Enjoy!

Kristy

Post Valentine's Day~

2013-02-15T09:04:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Sweethearts Day! We had a busy day as usual, but enjoyed it all the same!

For the first time I had a Valentine Wreath on our door! I'm aiming for 11 this month! One to represent each holiday! What would I have done for January?? Maybe stars or something for the "New Year"?? I didn't purposely miss it, but maybe it's a good thing I did! {Smile!}

With my continuing love of fabric {no I haven't gotten over burlap yet} I found some with personality! Not to mention not the traditional pink, white and red! I think it turned out pretty cute!

I started with that green "scratchy" wreath with the flat backside! I think I like that better than the complete round ones...today anyway! What else do ya need?...
*Main fabric cut into 3-4 inch strips
*Felt in multiple colors
*Secondary fabric with accents to tie it all together {clearly the fabric is all your own choice!}
I busted out the sewing machine, but you could do stitching by hand as well!!

That's it! I didn't permanently attached the felt, so I could change it later! Do a little mix n' matching!

Besides the wreath we did a little project for Kiley Jo's class! It was quite simple!
After browsing Ben Franklin we had everything we needed!

Long little plastic bags & sixletts {they get a great color for every holiday!}

We used the cricut to cut the hearts and attached with bakers twine!

Simple!!! & DONE!

We gave the teachers these little bags with misc. goodies inside. {erasers, candy, stickers...}

I found these at the dollar store!

My hubby and my daughter got these little boxes!

Kiley's had hair ties, candy, lip gloss and other little trinkets in it.

I fit quite a bit in these little boxes I snagged from Pick Your Plum!

{Add washi tape, paper...craft it up however you choose!!}

After a full day at school with a party and Girl Scouts directly after with another party... we indulged in take out Mexican food and a movie at home to top off our night!

The movie was Journey 2. I wasn't quite sure about it at first because it was PG and being the mom I am, if it's not G, Kiley doesn't watch it, but 3 moms told me it was appropriate...which it ended up being. It's actually a great movie and pretty darn funny! We give it 2 thumbs up!

I hope everyone had a great day as well! From browsing blogs and checking out Pinterest, it appears you did!!

Hugs!!!

Kristy

Happy New Year~

2012-12-31T23:14:00.001-08:00

This past year was a bit crazy and I was feeling transparently stretched thin!

I DID NOT want to repeat that process for the

second year in a row!!

So, in order to get ready for a brand New Year, I made some changes!

I've organized, planned and have done some "reprogramming" of the brain!

This will be an ongoing process, but I've finally put several of those "Pins" into action!

{As much as I "Pin" I should be a size 0 and in great shape,

One heck of a gourmet cook,

my house picture perfect n' spotless and be crazy organized!!}

Yep, I'm Sooo not any of those!! But...

Baby steps!!...I've pulled out many of the cleaning and organizational pins, smooshed them together to make what works for me and we'll see...

It's in the beginning phase, but I'll let you know how it goes!

It's more of little tasks done each day, to add up to a lot at the end of the week, therefore when the weekend comes you don't spend it bogged down with chores!

The reprogramming part was not doctors and big needles {smile}, but a way of thinking.

#1. My house doesn't need to always be clean! I can sit and enjoy family time without vacuuming or doing another load of laundry!

#2. We can eat leftovers!!! I don't need to make a new meal every single night!!

I did need to simplify my process though to save time, so back onto Pinterest I went!

In "Cooking ahead" I pulled together what I felt was a good menu for my family and went shopping!

Tomorrow will be another day of cooking, bagging and freezing!

I used to do this in the past and it was amazing the time and money it saved!!

{It will save even more for those that are couponers and shop around a bit! I've never been that disciplined...

maybe next year! {ha!}

If all goes as planned, I'll have a month of meals with only a couple trips to the grocery for fresh produce and little items!

Again, I'll share when all goes well!

#3. It's OK to have down time to craft, read, blog or

get coffee with friends.

Have a little "personal down time!" I always feel so guilty because my hubby is workin' his hiney off at a "real job"! But ya know what???...I don't work a solid 9 to 5 job, but I do work and I work hard at everything I'm doing! It's so nice that he has already tried to tell me that {many times!}, but I simply couldn't digest it! Until now...I think this will be my hardest one to overcome!

#4. I've had to let go a bit and trust in someone else!

This refers to our Quzino's!

I've got a manager now!

{Actually our old manager from years ago!}

By the end of January, my goal is to be a pretty absent owner.

Spend more time working on it than in it!!

SO, I'm excited for the New Year!!

I'm excited for changes in our lives...

I'm excited for building more memories with my family...

I'm excited for new friendships...

I'm excited for New Ventures...

I'm excited for whatever is to come...

BRING ON 2013!!

Best wishes for a healthy, happy and prosperous year!!!

Fall Burlap Wreath n' Giveaway~

2012-12-14T09:42:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, this is a bit late, but still worth sharing!

This project takes almost a full yard of burlap (in one color),
1/2 yard in another color and

1 1/2 yards of ribbon {for a pop of color}!
I used two types of ribbon, one was sheer and the other with texture to blend a bit with the burlap!

When I first started I didn't think it was going to be as full as I wanted it, but with each strip you tie gets fuller and fuller! I cut each strip anywhere from 2 to 3 inches wide and the lengths varied, but the majority was 10 inches.

I think you could add some kind of embellishment too, but I kept it super simple! The next one has a bit more pop with 3 colors and jingle bells! {hint~hint}

I grabbed a simple wire wreath at Ben Franklin ($4), fabric at JoAnn's ($2.40/yd with 40% off coupon) and I had the orange ribbon (under $2), so for just over $10 you have a super cute wreath for your house or like me, the front door!

Thanks for visiting!!

Here's a little something I'm giving away over at One Artsy Mama!!

(Along with a gift card!!)

Go join the fun!! Good luck!!

Kristy

Caramel Ghosts~

2012-11-20T10:35:00.000-08:00

O.K, these little guys were fun to make and so good! Did I say SOOOO GOOD??!

These would be good for any holiday, party or get together since the little melty chocolates come in such a variety of colors these days!

I think the ghosts turned out super cute! Love the little candy eyes!

Not only are the melts different colors, but there's a world of sprinkles out there!

We had our little Halloween/Fall theme going on, but I'm going to whip up some of these for Christmas for the neighbors {and us of course!} dipped in green with red, green and white sprinkles! Hopefully, it will give the effect of a Christmas tree! We'll see!

I'd never made my own caramel before, but Peggy {the sweet friend I referred to yesterday} has a gazillion times, so this was my time to learn!

It might take a few times to get when it's boiled for too short of time, just right or too stinkin' long!

Use your candy thermometer once you've mixed everything and brought it to a boil: bring to "thread". Or if you don't have a candy thermometer you can take a drip of caramel and drop it into cold water. You should be able to form it into a soft ball if it's ready!

When it's to "thread", pour it out onto lightly sprayed sheets and let it cool. When it's boiled "just right" it doesn't harden up and you can cut it into any size strip ya need!

You can see the little size strip that we cut. Then you take the pretzel stick and wrap it around

like so...

Melt whatever color you choose and get to dippin'!

They even have mint flavored melts!!

Lay on wax paper, let set a few and EAT UP!

They're like a potato chip~ you can't eat just one!!

Time to make your own!

What you'll need:

1 cup butter or margarine

2 cups brown sugar

1 cup light corn syrup

1 can sweetened condensed milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 bag big long stick pretzels

In a saucepan combine butter, sugar and corn syrup. Stir well and bring to boiling over medium heat. Stir in condensed milk; simmer, stirring constantly, till mixture comes to thread on candy thermometer. Stir in vanilla. Pour onto lightly sprayed sheets to cool.

This is great for Caramel popcorn too!!

Only let the caramel boil for a skosh...you want it runny!!

Then drop in Christmas M&M's!!

This is belly rubbin' good!! {Remember, that's the highest rating!}

{Wink!~Wink!}