Two Maids a Milking

Stitching for the Kitchen Review and Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 31 Jul 2013 00:48:00 +0000

Check out the latest book from Gooseberry Patch!

This book is full of 30 easy projects for the heart of your home! It even has some recipes sprinkled through out!

Not only does it have projects it also has tips, techniques and the full size patterns you need to complete the projects!

Three projects jumped out to me!

The Cupcakes Oven Mitt

Mug Cozy with Pocket

The Casserole Carrier

Check back later this week to see which one I made!

You can buy the book Here.

Giveaway:
I have one copy of this cookbook to giveaway!

To Enter:

Leave a comment!
Leave an email address you can be reached at.

The Rules:

One entry per person.
Giveaway ends at noon on August 9th.
Winner will be picked by random and announced August 10th.
Winner will be announced by email and must respond with 48 hours.
Cookbooks will only be shipped within the continental US.

Checkout other bloggers who have reviewed this book:
Gooseberry Patch

Smashed Peas and Carrots

The Crafty Princess Diaries

Gramma's in the Kitchen

Two Maids A Milking

Vicki O'Dell

Homesteader's Heart A Creative Being

Delightful Country Cookin

A Colorful Birthday Party!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 21:17:00 +0000

The Wild One recently turned 7 and she requested a COLORFUL Birthday party! She wanted lots of bright colors, painting, games and tons of CANDY!

This was a really fun party to put together and thanks to Pinterest, it was quick and easy to find plenty of ideas! Check it out:

She picked out 4 different types of CANDY to decorate her cake with!

We made to sure to have lots and lots of colorful snacks and CANDY!

We set up for our little artists!

And had plenty of time for yard games and a full fledge silly string war!

Here's to another year of laughs, giggles, silliness, and most importantly the quirkiness that our Wild One brings to our family!

Strawberry Marshmallow Pie

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 17:41:00 +0000

It is strawberry season around here and that means plenty of fresh strawberries waiting to be made it to something delicious!

This pie is sure to please!

Start by cooking your crust. I used pie weights to get an even crust, you can use beans, push foil down, or don't worry about it! You are going to fill it with yummy filling and no one will ever see the bottom! I used store bought crust (gasp!). I was making the pie during the little ones nap time and I didn't want to press my luck! If you want to make your own crust, here is my go to recipe.

Remove weights halfway during cooking.

Cut up your strawberries and add the glaze. I would use less glaze next time, just enough to coat the strawberries.

Whip up your marshmallow creme and cream cheese.

Start layering your filling and strawberry mixture.

Decorate with pie dough shapes and chill.

This pie was super yummy but it was a little runny. I didn't chill it for as long as mentioned (ran out of time) so that could have been part of the problem and when I make it again I will use less glaze. It might also help to chill the strawberry and marshmallow mixtures before you make the pie. My pie eaters didn't even notice it didn't serve the perfect slice, they gobbled it up right away!

Strawberry Marshmallow Pie:
1 box Pillsbury® refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on box
2 packages (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened
1 jar (13 oz.) marshmallow creme
4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
1 container (12 to 14 oz.) strawberry pie glaze

Heat oven to 450°. Bake bottom 9-inch pie crust for 9-11 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely.

Unroll remaining pie crust on work surface. Cut shapes from crust. Bake on cookie sheet for 6 to 8 minutes or until light brown. Cool.

In bowl, beat cream cheese with electric mixer on high speed until light and fluffy. Stir in marshmallow creme.

In large bowl, mix strawberries and pie glaze. Reserve 1 cup strawberry mixture; set aside. Spoon about 1/3 of the marshmallow mixture into pie crust; top with remaining strawberry mixture, and the remaining 2/3 marshmallow mixture. Top with 1 cup reserved strawberry mixture. Arrange cut outs over filling. Cover; refrigerate at least 8 hours or until set but not firm. Store covered in refrigerator.

Whiskey Barrel Herb Garden How To

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 18:48:00 +0000

We had an old whiskey barrel laying around so I decided to make it my herb garden! It was super easy and we will have fresh herbs all summer long!

Start by drilling a couple holes in the bottom of the barrel for draining purposes.

Pour a small layer of rock on the bottom. This will also help drain your container.

You could also use mulch if you wanted too.

Next add your soil.

Fill the barrel almost full with soil.

Pick out and plant the herbs of your liking. We choose rosemary, basil, cilantro, chives and parsley.

Water every couple days.

There you have it! Simple as that! Did i mention they smell so good?

Imagination Station - Save the Toy Store!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 19:35:00 +0000

We have a local Toy Store in downtown Franklin that we just love!!! This store was 'born' the same year as Miss Bug so it has meant a lot to us over the years! We have shopped, celebrated, partied, and PLAYED at this store for the past 9 years! We love the owners and really enjoy every visit we make to this quaint little store! They are unique in that they allow the kids (and adults) to play with the toys in their store prior to purchasing them! They are super helpful when looking for special gifts and they even gift wrap them in the coolest of papers and bows!

We had the chance to visit our Toy Store in the last week for 2 different events. The Wild One is having her big 7th BD this week so we got to celebrate with her friends at the store. They planned a terrific themed party complete with games, crafts, activities and of course snacks!

Check out this "Teacher" themed party:

(Note - even though school is out of session for the summer - the Wild One LOVES to 'teach' so she wanted a teacher themed party!)

Her little 1st grade buddies! (Well, 2nd graders now!)

Last week, our Little Man got to enjoy a Construction Event at the store and he absolutely loved it!

We thought it was most appropriate to eat lunch that day on this awesome construction set that he received a couple of years ago from this very Toy Store - lunch included rocks, logs, mud and gravel!!

And we spent the afternoon playing construction!!

Speaking of construction, this Toy Store has been surrounded by construction for over a year now which has made it a little difficult to get to the store. Their sales have been down and we are sad to say that they are going through a tough time right now. They started a Save the Toy Store campaign a few weeks ago and are wrapping it up this week. We have done our part to try to Save the Toy Store! We have many great memories at this little local store and hope to see it around for years to come! So, here's to Saving OUR Toy Store!!

Vintage Indiana Ticket Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:37:00 +0000

I have been to Vintage Indiana, Indiana's largest wine festival, multiple times and every year has been a blast, even in the rain!

The day is spent trying new wines from various Indiana wineries, munching on fruit and cheese, listening to music and hanging out with friends and family. Sounds perfect, doesn't it!

This year's festival is on June 1, 2013 in Military Park, downtown Indianapolis from 11 am - 7 pm.

Nearly 30 Indiana wineries will offer samples of over 300 wines. Glasses and bottles of wine can also be purchased.

The music will begin at noon with Cari Ray (12-2), crowd favorite Jennie DeVoe (2:30-4:30) and round the night off with Josh Gracin past American Idol contestant (5-6:45)!

Adult tickets are $22 in advance at Marsh Supermarkets or online at www.vintageindiana.com $25 at the gate.

If wine isn't your thing Designated Driver tickets are $10 and include unlimited soft drinks and water.

Kids ages 6-20 are $5. Under 5 years old are free.

Feel free to bring your picnic blanket or favorite lawn chair!

Indiana Wine Facts:

Indiana has 69 wineries.

They produce over 1.25 million gallons of wine a year and attract over 2 million visitors

Traminette is Indiana's signature wine!

Ticket Giveaway:

Now for the fun part! We have a set (2) of tickets to giveaway!

To Enter:
Leave a comment with your favorite type of wine!
Leave an email address you can be reached at.

The Rules:
One entry per person
Giveaway ends at 5 pm on May 24th.
Winner will be picked at random and announced on the 24th.
Winner will be announced by email and must respond within 48 hours.

GIVEAWAY CLOSED

This post is a sponsored post, but my love for wine and opinions expressed are all mine!

Father Daughter Dance

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Tue, 07 May 2013 14:41:00 +0000

"She's pulling at me saying, 'Dad, I need you

There's a ball at the castle and I've been invited

And I need to practice my dancing, oh please, daddy, please'

So I will dance with Cinderella while she is here in my arms

'Cause I know something the prince never knew

Oh, I will dance with Cinderella, I don't want to miss even one song

'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight and she'll be gone..."

Steven Curtis Chapman

This song was the theme of our recent Father Daughter dance - if you haven't heard it before - I highly recommend that you take a listen - Cinderella by Steven Curtis Chapman! Awesome song!!

Who doesn't love to watch little girls all dressed up spinning, twirling, swaying, dancing with their daddies and grandpas - and did I mention twirling?!?

I had the true pleasure of helping with our Father Daughter dance last weekend! Our church MOPS group sponsored this event and we had a fantastic time. It was royal, magical, special and hopefully memorable for all who attended!

The Wild One and Miss Bug got the royal treatment by their daddy! What a special evening for them!

Say "OshKosh B'gosh" Video Contest AND $50 Giveaway from Two Maids!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:30:00 +0000

Disclosure: Post and giveaway sponsored by OshKosh B'gosh, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

CONGRATULATIONS TO HOOSIER FARM BABE FOR WINNING THE $50 GIFT CARD!

OshKosh B'gosh, OshKosh B'gosh, OshKosh B'gosh! How many of you remember this famous saying and the adorable commercials that went along with it in the 80's?!

Our family loves OshKosh B'gosh clothing - especially the bibs! My Little Man has had a few pair over the years and my girls even had the pink and white striped bibs when they were little! My Grandpa has worn striped OshKosh bibs for as long as I can remember - so, when our kids were born, we knew that they needed the same striped bibs to match Great Gramps!

Check out Little Man sporting his:

He's a cool dude (in case you didn't notice!) And, not only do they have bibs, but they also have the cutest clothes for boys and girls! Check out these adorable OshKosh skirts on my girls:

They even have built-in shorts which is one of my favorite features for girls' skirts! You know that OshKosh B'gosh has been around since 1895 and was started in OshKosh, WI. It is now a subsidiary of Carter's - another great children's clothing company!

So, this is your lucky day because we are partnering with OshKosh B'gosh on their video contest and sweepstakes AND we are giving away a $50 gift card right here on our own blog to one of our readers!

If you would like to enter the video contest, you can submit a video entry of your b'gosh kid saying "OshKosh B'gosh" for a chance to win the grand prize - a $5000 OshKosh B'gosh gift card.

Entering is quick and easy. You can take a video (30 seconds or less) with your mobile phone and upload it directly to the contest page here!

Check out the short video that my kiddos did:

There's nothing OshKosh B'gosh loves more than the sight (and sound) of real kids saying "OshKosh B'gosh!" Say it six times fast, say it with a silly dance, say it slow or fast.... have fun with it!

Once you enter, you're eligible for a chance to win!
One Grand Prize Winner: $5000 OKBG gift card
Four Runner's up: $500 OKBG gift cards (total $2000)
Fifty Random Winners: $50 OKBG gift cards (total $2500)

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. The Say "Oshkosh B'Gosh!" Video Contest and Sweepstakes ends 5/7/13. 18+, 50 U.S./D.C./P.R. only. Go to www.facebook.com/oshkoshbgosh for Official Rules and complete details.

If you would like to enter to win a $50 gift card to OshKosh B'gosh - all you need to do is leave a comment below and tell us your favorite style on the OshKoshBgosh website.

Please also leave an email address you can be reached at.

THIS GIVE-A-WAY IS NOW CLOSED - MAY, 6, 2013.

(This giveaway ends at midnight EST on Sunday, May 5th and the contest winner will be picked at random and be announced on Monday, May 6th.)

OshKosh B'gosh partnered with bloggers such as me to help promote the Say "OshKosh B'gosh Video Contest and Sweepstakes. As part of the program, I received product or gift cards. OshKosh B'gosh believes that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words, and therefore did not tell me what to purchase or what to say about the products I used. OshKosh B'gosh policies align with WOMMA Ethich COde, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations. The winner of any prize in this program will be chose in accordance with the program's Official Rules and gift card fulfillment will be handled by a third party.

Gretta's Ham, Potato & Cheddar Quiche

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:31:00 +0000

My mom was staying with us for a couple days and we were both drawn to the quiche recipes in the Kick-Off Brunches section of the new Gooseberry Patch cookbook Game-Day Fan Fare. When I saw Gretta's Ham, Potato & Cheddar Quiche I knew my meat and potato loving husband would approve!

Start by piercing the sides and bottom of a pie crust with a fork. You can use a store bought crust or here is my recipe for Never Fail Pie Crust. Bake the crust for 5 minutes.

Cook your potatoes and ham in a skillet until brown.

Whisk together your eggs and half-and-half.

Add your seasonings.

Toss the potatoes and ham in your cooked pie shell.

Add your egg mixture.

Top with cheese and bake!

Serve warm with your favorite salad and a cup of fresh fruit!

Gretta's Ham, Potato & Cheddar Quiche:
9-inch pie crust
1 cup potato, boiled, peeled and diced
1 cup cooked ham, diced
2 teaspoons oil
4 eggs beaten
1/2 cup half-and-half
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
salt and pepper to taste
1 - 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Pierce the sides and bottom of pie crust with a fork. Bake crust for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook potato and ham in oil for 5 to 10 minutes, until golden. Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer potato mixture to pie crust. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half and seasonings. Pour egg mixture over potato mixture in crust. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes. If edges of crust brown too quickly, cover with strips of aluminum foil. Cut into wedges. Serves 8.

Peanut Butter Fudge Pie

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 14:14:00 +0000

This recipe caught my attention as soon as I saw it in the latest Gooseberry Patch cookbook Game-Day Fan Fare! I took it took a friends house and it was a hit! Best part is the recipe makes two pies, so I had one waiting on me when I got home!

Start with a store bought graham cracker crust or make your own with crushed graham crackers, sugar and butter.

Press into pie plate and bake.

Start on the filling by creaming your cream cheese, butter and peanut butter.

Add the sugar and vanilla and set aside.

Beat your whipping cream until stiff peaks form.

Fold the whipping cream into the peanut butter mixture, divide evenly between crusts and chill.

Combine remaining whipping cream and chocolate chips in a small sauce pan over low heat. Stir until chocolate chips are melted.

Pour over pies and chill.

Yum!

Peanut Butter Fudge Pie:
1-1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1-1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
2 Tablespoons butter, softened
3 cup powdered sugar
1-1/2 Tablespoons vanilla extract
1-1/2 cup whipping cream, divided
2 9-inch graham cracker crustd
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

In a bowl, beat cream cheese, peanut butter and butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Stir in the sugar and vanilla; set aside. In a seperate bowl, beat 3/4 cup whipping cream with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Fold whipping cream into cream cheese mixture. Evenly divide filling between crusts; chill for two hours. Combine remaining whipped cream and chocolate chips in a saucepan over low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until chips melt. Remove from heat; let cool slightly. Pour evenly over pies. Refridgerate again until set, about one hour. Makes 2 pies, each serves 8.

Graham Cracker Crust:
1-1/2 cups fine graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted butter

Press into a pie plate. Chill for 20 minutes or bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

Affiliate links were used in this post

Gooseberry Patch Game Day Fan Fare Cookbook Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 13:51:00 +0000

Congratulations Tara! You are the winner of the Game Day Fan Fare Cookbook!

#13 Tara
7 Layer Dip!

Check out the latest Gooseberry Patch Cookbook to hit the shelves! Game-Day Fan Fare is packed full of crowd pleasing recipes and tips perfect for any tailgating or game day celebrations! But don't let the title fool you there are tons of recipes that are perfect for every day cooking, a chapter dedicated to cooking for a crowd and tons of recipes to make any gathering a home run!

The cookbook is broken down in to six different chapters

Kick-Off Brunches:

My mom was staying with us for a couple days and we were both drawn to the quiche recipes in this section. When I saw Gretta's Ham, Potato & Cheddar Quiche I knew my meat and potato loving husband would approve! Recipe coming soon!

Major League Munchies:
I can't wait to try the Slow-Cooker Buffalo Chicken Nachos! The Pizza Muffins would make the perfect afternoon snack, the kids could even make their own!

Souper-Bowl Soups, Salads & Sandwiches:
This section is packed full soups, stews, sandwiches and salads. A couple that stood out to me were the White Cheddar Ale Soup, Italian Beef Dip Sandwiches and the Caprese Pasta Salad.

Slam Dunk Mains & Sides:
Fajitas, Enchilada Lasagna and Junkyard Joes all on my list of recipes to make soon!

Touchdown Treats:
This section is where I found the Peanut Butter Fudge Pie, oh my! There is a reason this recipe makes two pies. One to take to your party and one to eat at home! Click HERE for the recipe!

Stadium Size Recipes for a Crowd:
Every now and then I make lunch and take it to the farm for the guys. To say they have a big appetite would be an under statement! I can't wait to try some of these stadium sized recipes!

Giveaway:
The awesome people at Gooseberry Patch sent a copy of this cookbook for me to giveaway!

To Enter:

Leave a comment letting us know your favorite game day recipe!
Leave an email address you can be reached at.

The Rules:

One entry per person.
Giveaway ends at noon on April 23th.
Winner will be picked by random and announced April 24th.
Winner will be announced by email and must respond with 48 hours.
Cookbooks will only be shipped within the continental US.

GIVEAWAY CLOSSED.

For more recipes and chances to win visit:

A Well Seasoned Life
Girl With Blog

Affilate links were used in this post.

Amish Country

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 02:36:00 +0000

My mom and I got to take a few days last week and enjoy Amish Country - one of our favorite things to do together! I have a few posts that I will be writing about our trip but I wanted to share some photos as I was downloading them tonight. I hope you enjoy the view as much as we did!

Turkey Tetrazzini

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 15:19:00 +0000

This recipe is perfect for a busy mom! It makes two different casseroles, one to eat and one to freeze for a quick meal on a busy night. Oh, and it is yummy!

Start by sauteing your onions, garlic and mushrooms.

Stir in the broth.

Add the turkey, soup and sherry.

Mix.

Add the Italian seasoning, pepper and Parmesan cheese.

Fold in the cooked spaghetti.

Sprinkle with remaining cheese.

And on the one to freeze.

Bake and enjoy!

Turkey Tetrazzini:
1 lb. uncooked spaghetti
1/2 lb. sliced fresh mushrooms
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 tsp. minced garlic
2 Tbs. olive oil
3 cans (10-3/4 oz. each) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
3 cups cubed cooked turkey
1 cup chicken broth
1/3 cup sherry or additional chicken broth
1 tsp. pepper
2 cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Cook spaghetti according to package directions

Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven, saute the mushrooms, onions and garlic in oil until tender. Stir in the soup, turkey, broth, sherry, Italian seasoning, pepper and 1 cup of cheese. Drain spaghetti; stir into turkey mixture.

Transfer to two greased 8 in square baking dishes or one 9x13. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Cover and freeze one casserole up to 3 months. Cover and bake the remaining casserole at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until heated through.

To use frozen casserole: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Uncover; bake 5-10 minutes longer or until bubbly:

Corn Dog Casserole

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:57:00 +0000

I don't know about you but I am craving a good fair corn dog! I can spot a good corn dog from a mile away! I even have a favorite food stand where I buy them at during our state fair!

Of course I had to try this casserole and I can tell you I will be making it again!

Start by sauteing your celery.

Add onions and then set aside.

Saute your dogs add to veggies and set aside 1 cup.

Whip up your batter.

Add your seasonings. If you don't have sage use poultry seasoning.

Stir in your cornbread mixes.

Add your veggies, remaining hot dogs and cheese.

Spread into a shallow dish. Mine took forever to get done in the middle, so be sure to use a shallow dish or a 9x13 pan.

Add your remaining hot dog mixture and cheese.

Bake and enjoy!

Corn Dog Casserole:
2 cups thinly sliced celery
2 Tablespoons butter
1-1/2 cups sliced green onions
1-1/2 pounds hot dogs
2 eggs
1-1/2 cups 2% milk
2 teaspoons rubbed sage
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 packages (8-1/2 ounces each) corn bread/muffin mix
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar chesse

In a small skillet, saute celery in butter for 5 minutes. Add onions; saute for 5 minutes longer or until vegetables are tender. Place in a large bowl and set aside.

Cut hot dogs lengthwise into quarters, then cut into thirds. In same skillet, saute hot dogs for 5 minutes or until lightly browned; add to vegetables. Set aside 1 cup.

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, sage and pepper. Add remaining hot dog mixture. Stir in the corn bread mixes. Add 1-1/2 cups of cheese. Spread into a shallow 3 qt. baking dish. Top with the reserved hot dog mixture and remaining cheese.

Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Little House on the Prairie Birthday Party

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 15:33:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, I was talking to Miss Bug about her upcoming 9th Birthday (ugh!) and she had been thinking about a "Little House" or a pioneer themed party. I was surprised by this idea but absolutely loved all of the possibilities! She read the entire Little House series last year and we rent the TV series from the library quite often - so we talked it over and thought why not?!

She LOVES to sew and to craft, so we decided to make this the theme of the party! We looked through some books and made a visit to Conner Prairie and came up with some really fun ideas. She definitely wanted to create a Mercantile for the kids to 'shop' at! She helped me sew satchels for each one of them and she made the prices so that everyone would be able to purchase one of everything! They each started with $.10. The funny part (and probably not want we anticipated) was that throughout the party, the kids were running around asking adults for pennies so they could 'shop' for more things! It turned in to quite the hit and the kids just loved being able to buy special things!

In order to save some money, my girls wore dresses or skirts that they already had, but we did purchase bonnets for them and I made them each an apron. We also made pennants to decorate with and LOTS of cornbread and lemonade for snacks!

Little Man and his cousin! Doesn't she remind you of Carrie?!

I had big plans for a 'quilted' cake but Miss Bug quickly reminded me that the cake would've been much simpler back then - so we decided just to ice it and add a few blueberries to the top!

Another big hit was making the rag dolls and bead necklaces. In the books, Laura Ingalls loved to play with her rag doll. Her older sister, Mary, would sew her dresses for her doll for her birthday. I found a no-sew pattern for a rag doll and we decided that this could be a quick and easy craft for the kids but lots of fun! Laura also like to hunt for Indian beads and would make beautiful necklaces out of them so, we had beads for sell in our Mercantile and the kids could make necklaces or bracelets!

When visiting Conner Prairie, we found copies of the McGuffey reader and speller - the SAME books that Laura would've used in school! We wrapped them in a brown sack and gave them to Miss Bug before the party. Needless to say - she LOVED them and has already spent hours reading them!!

To top off the party, we downloaded some fiddle music along with the theme song from "Little House on the Prairie." This was so much fun! Simple, home-made and certainly affordable! The best part came at the end of the day when Miss Bug gave me a big hug and told me it was her best birthday party ever!!!

Happy 9th Birthday to our 'half-pint' Miss Bug!!

Easter Traditions

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 19:38:00 +0000

I normally bring the cake or cupcakes to most family gatherings including Easter. Last year I decided to be a little sneaky! We had just found out we were having a little boy and I decided to reveal the gender via a cupcake!

I whipped up some blue buttercream frosting and filled some cupcakes.

I then finished icing the cupcakes and added some sprinkles in multiple colors to throw everyone off!

The best part was I didn't tell anyone what was going on! For those of you that personally know me you know I am not good at keeping a secret. So, the whole dinner I was giggling to myself waiting for the first person to grab dessert! I am pretty sure Amy (my sis-in-law and blogging partner) even asked me what was up and I tried to play it cool, so unsuccessful that my husband kept giving me the eye! I even had my camera on my lap so I could catch reactions! Needless to say everyone was really confused until they saw blue!

While I can assure you we don't have anything nearly as exciting planned for this year we have a lot of fun things and traditions to look forward to including, Easter crafts, Easter story cookies and egg hunts!

What is your favorite Easter tradition?

A big thanks to Hershey's for the basket filled with all of my favorite Hershey Easter Candy!

Peeps Sunflower Cake

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:18:00 +0000

I saw this picture in a cookbook and knew I had to make this cake! It is so cute! It is perfect for Easter, a birthday party or a beginning of spring celebration!

The recipe calls for a yellow cake mix, I grabbed one out of the pantry and followed according to the directions on the package. I made a double layer cake but a single layer would look just as great!

Prep your pans, I love baking spray!

Level and frost your cakes. I like to add a border to the bottom but you wouldn't have to (I always use a #1 tip for borders). Add the peeps around the edge for the petals. I forgot to take picture so if you would like to see how to frost and stack the cake, check out this post.

Place the chocolate chips in circles for the sunflower seeds. If you want to be an over achiever use the mini chocolate chips in the center and then the regular for the rest.

Best part is that when you cut the cake everyone gets a Peep!

Peeps Sunflower Cake:
Recipe from:Taste of Home Best Loved Recipes
1 package (18-1/4 ounces) yellow cake mix
2 cans (16 ounces each) chocolate frosting
19 yellow chick Peeps candies
1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Prepare and bake cake according to package directions, using two greased and waxed paper-lined 9-in. round baking pans. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire wracks. Gently peel off waxed paper; cool completely.

Level tops of cakes. Spread frosting between layers and over the top and sides of cake.

Place Peeps on cake curving slightly to fit, arrange chicks around edge of cake for sunflower petals. For sunflower seeds, arrange chocolate chips in center of cake.

A New Chapter - The 4-H Years!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:53:00 +0000

As we celebrate National Ag Day today, I couldn't be more proud than to watch our little Miss Bug begin a new chapter in her life! AND in ours (as parents!) She has become a 4-H member! This is a year that I have been anxiously awaiting - well, for almost 9 years now!

I LOVE the 4-H Youth program more than any youth organization in the world! My hub and I were both 10-year members. I grew up in a strong 4-H family - our 'family' time typically revolved around some type of 4-H activity. Not only was I a 10-year member, I was also a county 4-H Intern, a State 4-H Intern, a 4-H Youth Extension Educator (for those of you not familiar - I worked for 4-H), and now I serve as a 4-H volunteer. Even though I feel like I have held almost every 4-H position possible -- now I get to be a 4-H MOM!!!

So, Miss Bug will begin her own 4-H experiences this year. She has signed up to take projects in Sewing, Arts/Crafts, Cake Decorating, Fashion Revue and in showing Dairy cattle! This 7th generation future dairy farmer has been working with the 4-H Dairy Judging team since January, helped her daddy build a small barn out back for her calves, and has picked out a couple of heifers to take to this year's county fair. Here's a look:

Stay tuned for many more pictures of the kids and calves and this New Chapter in our lives!

Hot Cocoa Cookies

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 22:04:00 +0000

Hot cocoa and hot cocoa cookies, the perfect way to warm up after being out in the cold! I found this recipe on the back of the Mallow Bits package and it is originally from Christi at Love from the Oven.

I randomly came across the mallow bits during a trip to Target. So, I know you can find them there! I also used the hot cocoa with the mini marshmallows because that was what I had!

Start by beating the butter, sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs and vanilla, mix.

Mix the dry ingredients.

Gradually beat into butter mixture.

Stir in mallow bits and chocolate chips.

Scoop and bake.

Enjoy!

Hot Cocoa Cookies
1-1/4 cups butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoons vanilla
3-1/4 cups flour
4 packets instant hot cocoa mix (Do not use sugar-free mix)
1-1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup vanilla mallow bits

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Beat butter and sugars in large bowl with standing mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well. Combine next 4 ingredients. Gradually beat into butter mixture until blended. Stir in chocolate chips and mallow bits. Drop 2 tablespoons dough, 2 inches apart, onto baking sheet. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool on baking sheets 5 min; remove to wire racks and cool.

March is Agriculture Appreciation Month

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 18:29:00 +0000

While our nation will be celebrating National Agriculture Day on March 19th, our state and local counties and communities will be celebrating agriculture this entire month!

What a great time of year to celebrate Ag - the weather will be getting warmer soon, the days will be getting longer, and hopefully we will all start to smell fresh tilled soil (one of my favorites!) this month! While we have calves born at our farm every day - there is still something about springtime and baby calves! They often get a little 'frisky' and tend to jump and kick in the sunshine! AND with the onset of Easter weekend - it's baby chick time! We always make a trip to see them when it's Chick Days at our local TSC or Rural King! Keep in mind that our Little Man is obsessed with chickens and ducks!

So in celebration of March and Agriculture Appreciation Month - I thought I would share a few of my favorite photos taken around our farm!

Homemade Pancakes

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 20:23:00 +0000

It's that time of year again when we celebrate Maple Syrup in Indiana! The National Maple Syrup Festival will be the first two weekends in March and as you know, our family loves it! So, I thought I would share one of my FAVORITE foods!

I love to eat pancakes anywhere and anytime! My favorite meal to eat out at a restaurent is usually breakfast / brunch and much of this has to do with great big, yummy, plate-sized pancakes!

At our house - we have pancakes for dinner quite often! Miss Bug definitely has her momma's genes on this one - she is up for pancakes any time of the day too! Last year, she even requested pancakes for her Birthday dinner!

This is my favorite recipe for homemade pancakes! I grew up on these pancakes and my momma used to serve them for dinner too!! The BEST thing about this recipe is that you should have these 7 ingredients in your kitchen at any given time - they are all basic BUT put together - they make fabulous pancakes!

Here we go:

Combine egg, milk and oil.

Add dry ingredients to this and stir JUST until moistened. This is key - do NOT over-mix!

Make sure your griddle is nice and HOT - I usually spray with non-stick spray or add a little oil to it to keep that first batch from sticking.

The key to a great pancake is knowing when to flip! How do you know...? When they look like this!!!

Fry up some ham, warm the maple syrup and it doesn't get much better than this - if you ask me!!

Homemade Pancakes
1 1/4 c. flour
3 t. baking powder
1 T. sugar
1/2 t. salt
1 egg, beaten
1 C. milk
2 T. vegetable oil

Combine egg, milk and oil. Add dry ingredients. Stir JUST until moistened. Bake on a hot griddle. Makes 8-12 pancakes.

Remember that we are giving away 2 tickets to the National Maple Syrup Festival right here on our blog! Tomorrow is your last chance to sign up!!

Giveaway: Tickets to the National Maple Syrup Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 21:26:00 +0000

UPDATE: The winner of the tickets is Jamie!

#4 I love french toast casserole served with syrup!

This giveaway has ended and comments are now closed.

It's that time of year again!

Maple syrup time!

Some of you may remember that Amy and her family attended the festival last year.

We are excited to be giving away two tickets to this year's festival!

Just leave a comment stating what your favorite thing to cook or bake is using maple syrup.

There are a number of things to do at the festival including learning about maple syrup, tasting syrup, eating pancakes, many demonstrations including candle and soap making, did I mention pancakes and the Sweet Victory Challenge sponsored by King Arthur Flour!

Do you have an awesome original recipe that includes flour and maple syrup? Then you need to sign up!

More details on the contest can be found here.

There is an adult division and youth division and the prices are cash and King Arthur gift cards! There are three categories: savory (main dish), dessert and breakfast.

Here are more details on the Festival!

The 2013 National Maple Syrup Festival will take place during the first two weekends in March:

Saturday, March 2nd and Sunday, March 3rd
Saturday, March 9th and Sunday, March 10th

The festival is located at:
Burton’s Maplewood Farm
8121 W. County Rd. 75 South
Medora, IN 47260

Donate (1) canned good for a $2.00 discount off of (1) shuttle bracelet. All donated food will be given to area food pantries. Thank you for your donation!

To Enter:

Leave a comment letting us know your favorite recipe to make with maple syrup.

Be sure to leave your name and or email so we can get a hold of you if you win!

The Rules:

One entry per person.

Giveaway ends at 5 p.m. on February 23

Winner will be picked by random and announced February 24

The Blizzard of 1978

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 20:31:00 +0000

If you have watched the weather in the last week or so you know the east coast has been pounded with snow and blizzard like conditions. About a month ago we were in the midst of a "blizzard." We got around 9 inches of snow but the wind ended up being the problem and drifted our road shut. At one point 4 trucks were stuck! Men, they all kept thinking their trucks were bigger and tougher and they could pull the other one out and ended up getting themselves stuck! Our county was on emergency travel only...but you know boys and their toys!

I loved snow days as a child, making snowmen or playing cards with the family made the perfect winter day. But, believe it or not, cows don't take snow days! They still need to be fed and milked.

My hubby was getting really nervous that he wouldn't be able to get around the trucks to the farm. So, he called one of the guys that works for us and he brought one of our bigger tractors and cleared the road. He also ended up having a slumber party with us a.k.a. he couldn't get home. To top it off, it was his birthday!

My husband also wanted to get a picture of our little guy with the snow.

It was important for him to get a picture because his whole life he has heard stories about the blizzard of 1978. I am dating my husband here but he was only three weeks old during that blizzard. Of course during our recent blizzard we got to hear the story from my Father-in-law all over again!

My Father-in-law lived just shy of a 1/2 mile from the farm and needed to make his way to the farm to check on everything. He had a new 78 Chevy 4 wheel drive (he could have just said a new pickup, remember boys and their toys!). He made it about half way to the farm when he hit a drift and was stuck. He walked the remainder of the way in snow drifts up to his rump, those of you who personally know him know he didn't say rump, I had to clean it up! He isn't the tallest man on the planet either!

There were 60 mile per hour winds and it was all he could do to get to the farm. He said his eyebrows were frozen from the snow! He ended up staying at the farm for 2 full days. My Mother-in-law was snowed in at the house by herself with a newborn, a 15-month old and two older kids. Could you imagine...?

So, do you have any good blizzard stories?

President's Day School Project

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 00:21:00 +0000

A few weeks ago Miss Bug came home and informed us that she had 2 weeks to complete her 3rd grade President's Day project! She was to choose a President, do some research, write a report, make a puppet and give an oral report to the class --- pretty big assignment if you ask me!!

Anyway, we have had some GREAT conversations over the past few weeks about past Presidents in our house! Since my hub absolutely LOVES this type of thing - he was all about discussing numerous Presidents with her - strategies, votes, decisions, politics, parties... And we also decided to check out a few books from the library including:

Three Presidents Died on the Fourth of July ---- Great book for elementary students! It is full of interesting and quirky facts about our first 25 Presidents!! Do you know which 3 died on July 4th??

So, long story short - Miss Bug decided that she wanted to do her project on President Martin Van Buren. Who???? Yes, he was the 8th President of the United States and in Miss Bug's own words "He did something special for our family!"

We learned that President Van Buren was the first President born in the US - the seven before him were born before the US was separate from Great Britian. He was born in Kinderhook, NY and many of his friends called him "Old Kinderhook." Over time, they formed an "OK" club (for Old Kinderhook) which is where the term OK came from. He served as a US Senator from New York, Governor of New York and then as Vice President with Andrew Jackson. Later he served as President from 1837-1841.

So, you may be wondering what he did for our family that was so special! Here is Miss Bug's last paragraph from her written report:

In the early years of the United States, people moved west because if they farmed land they could own it. The land was given to them from the government. My ancestors moved to our farm and President Van Buren land granted us 80 acres of land in 1837 that we still farm today. I am the 7^th generation on our Kelsay family dairy farm. I think he was a good President because he made good decisions and helped to start our farm. I think President Martin Van Buren was OK!

There you have it! Although many people don't know much about President Van Buren - he was very important to our family and what an awesome experience this school project has been with our 3rd grader!!

Oh, and the answer to the question above... The 3 Presidents that died on July 4th were Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and James Monroe!

Happy President's Day!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ Two Maids a Milking) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0000

It's beginning to look a lot like V-day - Everywhere we go,

We have plenty of red and pink - candy bags and great crafts we think,

And lots of games and heart-shaped cookies to show...

My Little Man gave me a Valentine today...

It just melts my heart!!! (Truth is - I love this more than anything!)