seeshellspace

A few more X's and O's

2012-02-04T10:31:00.000-08:00

I needed to re-do my kitchen window again. I change out the side pics depending on the holiday. Usually I print out vintage images from The Graphic's Fairy, but this time I decided to raid my stash and copy a little of what Mandy did Here at Little Birdie Secrets.

First I gathered some paper.

This image came from Graphics Fairy here. I resized it in Photoshop and made it fit an 8.5x11 inch paper then printed it out. You're welcome to click on this image and save as then print your own.

These are some more pages I created in Photoshop using brushes from Brusheezy. I needed both a portrait and landscape version.

Next I cut a bunch of hearts and X's and O's with my Cricut using the George basic shapes cartridge. The I Love You was also on the George cartridge.

Now start gluing the letters and hearts onto the paper.

Lastly I followed Mandy's tutorial loosely. I added stitching crosswise too. I also stitched some hearts and X's and O's to use go across the window. So simple and sweet.

The Left Side.

The Right Side.

And done. I did add some berries to the mason jars I made here.
I love it.

Sneaky Maple Apple Oatmeal Bread

2012-02-02T15:00:00.000-08:00

I've discovered a new favorite bread. The best part it that it's super sneaky. I promise you'll be amazed at all the nutritional yummy-ness packed in to these gorgeous loaves. Let's get started.

Maple Apple Oatmeal Bread

Since we will be adding in shredded apples, I found a super easy way to do it. Fill your blender with water and add cored apples.

I have a Vita-Mix.

Best purchase ever!

Pulse apples until they are the size you want.

Then pour into a strainer and let sit while you assemble the other ingredients. If I had thought of it, I would have used the apple water as the water for the bread. I didn't this time, but I will next time.

Next grind your wheat. I used equal parts Hard Red and Hard White wheat. I also threw in about a cup of 10 grain, and 1/2 cup of Quinoa. Grind it all together to get a fine flour. Again I used my Vita-Mix. Can I just say it's extremely versatile!
Here's the 3 Grains.

This one is Hard White Wheat.

This one is Hard Red Wheat or

also called Turkey Red.

The Hard Red has a higher protein content and makes for a denser bread. But for some reason, when you mix the two wheats together it makes an amazing light loaf of bread.

Lastly is Quinoa. Pronounced KEEN-WA. It is the only complete protein grain. It also adds a wonderful nutty flavor to the bread.

Grind the following:

2 cups Hard White Wheat

2 cups Hard Red Wheat

1 cup 10 Grain cereal

1/2 cup Quinoa

Place in bowl and set aside.

In a large mixer combine in order:

If you're using a Kitchen-Aid, you'll have to 1/2 the recipe.

4 cups warm water

1/2 cup Canola Oil (applesauce is an option)

1/2 cup maple syrup (Honey is an option)

1 Tbsp Maple Extract

2 beaten eggs

2 Tbsp sea salt

3 Tbsp Dough Enhancer

3 cups High Gluten bread flour or All purpose White flour

2 cups rolled oats (quick or regular)

2 cups of the freshly ground wheat flour

3 Tbsp instant Yeast

Mix for about a minute. Let rest for about 1 minute. Then turn mixer back on adding flour 1 cup at a time until dough cleans sides of bowl. I alternated between white and wheat flour, although you could do all whole wheat.

Once dough cleans sides of bowl, cover and mix for 5 minutes.

Now add in the 4 cups coarsely chopped apples. You will have to add more flour to get the dough to clean the sides again. Then mix for another 5 minutes.

Prepare bread pans by spraying with cooking spray.

Since it's mostly whole wheat, you only need to let it rise once.

Turn dough out onto counter and divide into 4 pieces.

In another pan pour about 1-2 cups quick oats.

Knead dough into loaves and roll in oats pressing to coat.

Place dough in pans and slash the tops. I made 3 X's on mine.

Cover with plastic and let rise until bread is about 1-2 inches above the top of the pan.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
When oven is preheated, remove plastic wrap and place in oven.
Drop temperature to 325 degrees.
Bake for about 40-45 minutes. It's a longer baking time due to the water content of the apples.

Let cool on racks.

Slice and enjoy. This was some of the softest bread I've made. I love it when whole wheat comes out like that.

Gone are the days of wheat bread door stops. You're smiling because you know what I mean.

Silverware Hardware part 2

2012-02-01T06:19:00.000-08:00

Here's another window, also in my bathroom where I used spoons as the drapery hardware.

Remember I used knives here?

This time I wanted spoons.

The process was the same.

Drill a hole in the handle,

bend the spoon up to make a hook,

and screw it into the wall.

Simple.

Easy.

Unique.

Another window done. A whole lot more to go.

X's and O's Tutorial

2012-01-31T07:11:00.000-08:00

How about a little X's and O's? This was a simple but elegant project. I love the results. Here's how I did it:

Supplies:
Cardboard box
Knife or scissors to cut cardboard
Paper pattern
Red Fabric
Red Ribbon (Mine came from Costco. Best deal on Ribbon EVER!)
Glue gun and glue
White sheer ribbon
Stapler
Red berries
Wire

First I got some cardboard and cut out 2 of each shape.

Now get some Red fabric and cut 2 pieces of each shape. These will wrap around the cardboard.

Hot glue the red fabric to the cardboard. First one side then the other. You may need to clip the fabric to get it to lay flat at the curves and corners.

Next, I sewed the ribbon into pleats, but just one side. You could do this with just a glue gun, but it might be kinda hard. You could also buy pre-pleated trim for this project.

Next glue the ribbon down to the letters.

Here's some close ups of the letters. For the O, I did two rows facing inward and one facing out.

The X got two rows, 2 full going one direction, then 2 half rows the other direction.

I used the sheer ribbon to connect the letters.
Tie a knot, then staple the ribbon to the
back. It's easy since it's cardboard.

Then I made a large bow and wired it together along with the sheer loop that attaches the letters. I made a large wire loop for hanging.

I tucked some berry sprigs into the ribbon to finish it off.

Hang it in place and you're done.

Happy Valentines and lots of Hugs and Kisses to you!

Bookshelf re-done

2012-01-19T13:26:00.000-08:00

Ok. So I'm in love with Pottery Barn. Who isn't really? I found this gorgeous new Tuscan finish on their furniture and had to try.

Mine only cost $15. That was for the stain and the wax. I got the bookshelf again from Freecycle.

I used Minwax stain in Ebony.

Here's the bookshelf washed and sanded.

Then with a damp cloth I wiped away all dust and anything left over from sanding.

Next I applied a thin coat of the ebony stain all over. Let sit about 15 minutes and wipe away any excess stain. Let dry overnight.

Now sand the pieces in various places to reveal the wood underneath.

I did a little extra hard sanding on the corners and edges.

Now apply a wax finish according to instructions. Wipe on with cheesecloth, let sit 15 minutes and buff with a clean dry cloth.
I seriously love this stuff. It's easy to apply and gives a great finish.

Here's some pics of the finished bookcase.

The furniture bug has bitten. I can't wait to find my next project.

Anthropologie and Silverware

2012-01-18T18:07:00.000-08:00

My living room seriously needs some fabric. I've been scouring Pinterest for ideas. Here's a few:

This came from here.

These came from here.

Of course these came from here.

Since I'm not spending $268 on drapes, I decided to make my own. Mine cost a total of $14. That was for another Queen Flat sheet. I already had a king flat and fitted. And I got the rods from Freecycle. It's a Yahoo group that is in my area. You sign up and then get emails for things people are giving away for free. I got three continental rods. I used two of them for this project.

First hem the panels to fit your window and make the rod pocket to fit your rod. My panels touch the floor, but don't puddle. The width is just about 10-12 inches wider than the window to allow for the slight gather and the return back to the wall.

Next tear up the fitted sheet. I did some small, kinda small, and large strips. The easiest way to do the strips is to cut a little then rip the fabric the rest of the way. I didn't hem any of it. Then gather up all the strips like shown. If you don't have a gathering foot, this will take FOREVER! Time consuming but well worth it. I have a gathering foot so it was a snap!

Divide up the gathered strips. I am doing 3 panels so I have 3 piles.

Next lay out the panels and place the gathered strips in a design. It was fun to play with the design. 2 of the panels are pretty much identical. The other one is a mirror image. You'll see why in the finished pics.

Pin everything down well and sew in place. It was a little awkward but just keep straightening and adjusting and you'll be fine.

I added two of the large ruffles to the bottom edge of each panel. Sorry it's upside down. That's how it ended up on my ironing board.

Now iron everything. I ironed the small ruffles too.

This one is not ironed.

This one is. Can you see the difference? I like the pressed look much better.

Now install your rods and hang the curtains.

I needed some tie-backs and thought I'd use some silverware left over from my last drapery project. This time I used spoons.

Drill the hole in the handle of the spoon and screw into the wall. Bend the spoon to create the tie-back.

Here's the closeup.

And another look.

Pretty and done. Love it! and they only cost $14. Awesome!

I got the best compliment on these the other day. A neighbor came over and said they needed to get some drapes like these for their home. I said I'd be happy to make some for them, and He said, "Oh, I thought you got them at Dillards or Macy's."

I melted.

Picnic Cake

2012-01-16T14:49:00.000-08:00

It was my husband's birthday recently and I asked him what he wanted for his birthday cake. This was it! It's a family favorite and I'm excited to share. Luckily I was fast with my camera. Usually the cake is all gone before I remember to get the Nikon out.

Picnic Cake

In a mixer combine:
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 tsp vanilla
Beat well.

In another bowl combine:
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp Baking Powder
Mix well.

In a glass container put
1 cup milk
2 Tbsp butter
Heat in microwave to melt and mix.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Prepare a 9x13 in pan with cooking spray.

Mix together all ingredients and pour into prepared pan.
Bake for about 45 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

While cake is baking prepare the topping.

Topping

In a microwave safe bowl combine:
1 cup sugar
1 Tbsp molasses
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup evaporated milk
Heat in microwave to dissolve and stir well.

Add flaked coconut to desired consistency.
Spread over hot cake.

Turn broiler on and place cake in oven to brown coconut, carmelize the topping, and make it Seriously Yummy! Be sure to watch the cake as it can burn easily.

Happy Birthday Handsome Man!

It's so Delish! plus you made it from scratch. The cake is light like angel food cake, and the topping is Heavenly!

Super Salad{s}

2012-01-12T13:47:00.000-08:00

If you're like me you are trying to eat healthy-er. I've been trying to eat a lot more fruits and vegetables. Here's 2 of my favorite salads and they're a great way to increase your veggie intake.

I'll share the base salad then give you some add-in options.

Broccoli Salad

Chop 1 bunch broccoli or about 4 cups

1 cup chopped celery

1 cup craisins or raisins

Optional add ins:

1/2 cup chopped onion, white, red, or green

1/2 cup chopped carrots

1/4 cup salted sunflower seeds

1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts

1 1/2 cup green grapes, halved

Dressing:

1/3 cup light mayonaise

1/4 cup plain fat free yogurt or greek style

3 Tbsp Sugar

1 Tbsp white vinegar

Mix the dressing well and pour over broccoli salad. Stir to coat and Chill for about 1 hour then serve.

Cabbage Salad

Chop 1/2 head cabbage

2-4 green onions diced

2 Tbsp sesame seed

(toasted is optional but yummy)

Optional add-ins:

1 pkg ramen noodles dry and broken up

2 Tbsp slivered almonds

1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts or honey roasted (either are great!)

1/2 cup chopped celery

Dressing:

2 Tbsp sugar

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup vinegar

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1 tsp seasoning blend like Lowrys

1 flavor packet from Ramen if using

Mix well to blend oil and vinegar. Pour over salad and stir to coat. Serve immediately.

I actually craved the Cabbage salad when I was pregnant with my 3rd child. I seriously made it like 2-3 times a week.

Kido #5 is 4 years old now and

I still love it.

A Dang Good Quesadilla!

2012-01-10T08:19:00.000-08:00

It's time to share my all time favorite way to use my Homemade Tortillas.

I discovered them years ago at a local restaurant. At the time they weren't even on the menu. You just had to know what to ask for. I promise they are amazing!

Shrimp Mango Quesadillas

Dice up the mango. If you've neer cut a mango, it's kind of tricky. The pit is large wide and flat. See the un-diced part. That's pretty much all the pit. You can feel it as you cut. I usually turn the mango sideways and cut on either side of the stem. It's about 1/4-1/3 inches across. Then peel the rest and dice.
Mangoes should be slightly soft to the touch. If they are hard, they aren't ready yet.
You can also use Champaign Mangoes. They are heavenly!

Get some small uncooked shrimp. Sautee in 1 Tbsp butter until bright pink. Remove from pan and drain any juices. Combine 2 Tbsp butter and 2 Tbsp honey and cook 2 min to thicken. Then add the shrimp and toss to coat. Squeeze juice from one lime over shrimp. Remove from heat.

I sauted some green peppers, button mushrooms, and onions too. It's optional.

Get 6 10 inch flour tortillas, and 1 1/2 cups shredded monterey jack cheese.

Layer the ingredients and cook slightly to melt chese, brown the tortillas, and meld the flavors together.

Remove from heat, cut and serve with sour cream (optional).

So Delish!

Silverware Drapery Hooks

2012-01-04T09:14:00.000-08:00

Did you know you can use Silverware to make drapery hooks? Yep. here's my Bathroom. It seriously needed some color and I found a bag of silverware at Goodwill for $4. I didn't even come close to using it all. Score!

First you'll need to choose the pieces you want, then using a metal drill bit, drill holes that will fit your screws in the blade of the knife, or the handle of the spoon or fork. Bend them to make the hooks. Sorry there isn't any pictures of the drilling part. Kinda hard to take pictures and drill at the same time.

Mark the corners to make sure they are placed evenly. Drill in place.

I had some super long sheers and used them to drape on my hooks.

Here's some close-up pics.

Simple and easy. I love it!
I have some more windows to do. Can't wait to share!

Eggs a la Goldenrod - A family Tradition

2011-12-29T18:12:00.000-08:00

This is a much requested family favorite. I don't make it very often because it takes some time, but if you have the time, this is a must!

Eggs a la Goldenrod

For the Sauce combine:

1 lb butter melted

2 1/2-3/4 cups flour

Mix well till it looks like this.

After the rue is made, put in large stock pot with 1 gallon of milk.

Add in 2-3 tsp pepper

1 Tbsp salt

2 tsp seasoning salt

Cook on low/medium heat stirring constantly til it thickens to desired consistency. It takes about 20 minutes.

Boil 2 dozen eggs and cut up.

Reserve about 1/3 to 1/2 of the yolks in a separate bowl.

Using a fork, shred the yolks to look like this.Cook 1 lb of sausage and add to the sauce.

Add eggs and stir to combine.

I only use this bread. I've tried using a more whole grain bread and get vetoed every time. It must be a thick homemade bread. Store bought doesn't even come close to cutting it.

Toast the bread and break up into bite size pieces.

Pour egg gravy over the top, a spoonful of yolks, and a light dusting of paprika.

OOOhhh... its heaven.

I promise!

Homemade Flour Tortillas

2011-12-27T14:12:00.000-08:00

I got this recipe from my cousin a few years ago and I've never turned back. Homemade tortillas are the only way to go. Seriously! But since I'm not an old Mexican Abuela, here's my gringo way. Still so good and way better than store bought.

Flour Tortillas

Mix together:

4 cups flour

(you can do a combination of white and wheat and still get excellent results.)

1 1/2 tsp salt

Cut in:

1/2 cup shortening

Mix together then add cold water 2-3 Tbsp at a time, enough to make a pilable dough. It's about 1 cup.

Knead 8 minutes or until

soft and stretchy.

Form dough into golfball sized balls. Place on well floured surface and cover with a dishtowel. Let rest 30 minutes. This will make rolling them out easier.

Now shape each ball into little discs. This helps the tortillas come out round.

Make sure the surface is well floured so they don't stick. Turn the tortilla as needed to keep it round. Also roll from the middle out.

Cook either in a large fry pan, or your electric griddle til lightly browned.

There you go.
Homemade tortillas.
We do burritos, enchiladas, & quesadillas.
Check these out. They are amazing!
What will you do with yours?

Gift of Self Coupon Freebie

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

My family decided to do a gift of self this year as we drew names. I designed these coupons in Photoshop and they are free to download and print.

Just hand write what you are giving in the stamp circle.

You can also create a scratch off space by combining silver paint and dishwashing soap, paint it on to contact paper, let dry and cut to fit the space. So fun.

Happy Christmas to all!

DIY Jammies Anyone?

2011-12-23T08:26:00.000-08:00

I wanted to do PJ's for Christmas for my kids this year and thought I'd try doing them myself. Here's what I did.

I found some long sleeve t-shirts at Wal-Mart for a few dollars so I got one for each of the kiddos. I also made PJ pants out of flannel using this technique.

Then I used some craft paint and some foam stamps I got from Creating Keepsakes years ago.

This one is for my girl. Of course Pink is a necessity.

Each sleeve got stamped with the year.

Boy #1 got this.

He's a big Firefly fan

and this is Jayne's mantra.

Boy #2's shirt. He's my super active one. This fit him to a T.

Boy #3's shirt. He's such a ham. This was perfect for him.

My baby boy is getting this one. The circle says Origional. Perfect.

Twisted Ribbon Necklace Tutorial

2011-12-22T06:40:00.000-08:00

I found something similar on Pinterest. But I decided to change it up a little. This project was so easy and quick. It made a perfect Christmas Present for my Sister-In-Law. I loved it so much, I had to make one for me too.

Here's the supplies:

Two Spools of ribbon. I used satin and unwired sheer about the same size.
A string of beads. I used one string per necklace. Try to keep the ribbon and the beads approximately the same size.
Upolstery thread or embroidery floss.
Large needle and scissors.

I cut the two strands about 40 inches long.

Un-string the beads and double the thread. Tie a knot at the end.

Cross the ribbon in the middle of the 2 strands like this. Double stitch in the end as shown.

Start threading the beads. After each bead bring two pieces of ribbon up and over and stitch in place. I twisted the satin ribbon each time to keep the shiny side out.

After 2 beads, stitch back through one bead to hold it together better.

I did that 3 times.
Front, middle and end.

It will start to look like this.

Use all the beads.

At the end stitch back and forth a few times to secure the end and knot the thread. Cut off long ends of thread.

Tie a knot in the end of the ribbons to hide the thread.

Hold the necklace up and decide how low you want the beads to sit. Cut another length of satin ribbon to finish the necklace, long enough to double it. Poke the ribbon through the starting point and pull ribbon through to the middle.

Tie a knot in the added ribbon like this to secure.

Tie a double knot in the ends of the ribbons and you're done!

So lovely, easy and quick! Can't wait to wear it!

Cowboy Cookies

2011-12-21T10:49:00.000-08:00

I got this recipe from my Aunt Donna. She was an amazing baker. I hope to match her abilities someday. Here's a favorite recipe from her.

Cowboy Cookies

Cream together:

1 cup melted butter

2 cups sugar

1 Tbsp Molasses

Then add:

2 eggs mixing well

In another bowl combine:

2 cups flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

Mix together and add to butter/sugar mixture. Then add:

2 cups regular oatmeal

1 cup chopped nuts

1 cup chocolate chips

Mix well and drop spoonfulls on parchment paper. Bake at 350 degrees on stone for about 11 minutes or lightly browned.

Cool slightly on baking racks.

Of course the kids love to help!

Country Christmas music playing in the background. So Perfect!

Christmas Wreath

2011-12-20T09:30:00.000-08:00

Here's my Christmas Wreath. I use the same grapevine base and change out the dressings. This time I added burlap rosettes, holly berries, a large ribbon and the C in the center.

My husband asked if it was for our last name or for Christmas. I said you decide.

Here's how I made the C.

I've been saving my dryer sheets for about a month. Here's the stack.

Then I cut them in half and then in circles.

Next cut two letters out of cardboard.

I cut some white fabric to wrap around the cardboard and hot glued it in place.

Then cut a smaller piece to cover the other side. Glue down.

I used the end of my paper piercer to shape the flowers. Place in the center of the flower and pull the sides around the tool. Add a dab of hot glue and place on the letter. I did these rather loosely. It just depends on how full you want the letter and how much dryer sheets you have.

Here it is finished. It does smell good too by the way.

Welcome home!

A Little Homemade Christmas

2011-12-19T06:41:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share a little of my Homemade Christmas.

This first one is a Nativity Puzzle I made. The cow was MIA when I took this pic.

Simple and Sweet.

I found the pattern for this set years ago. It took a long time to paint each one, but since it's wood the kids can play with them all they want.

This is the advent calendar I made. You can see the origional posts here and here.

A quilted Tree Skirt.

A Log Cabin Wreath Table Topper.

Last but not least, my quilted stockings.

I chose a few different block patterns. Then made enough blocks to make the stocking shape and added some decorative top stitching. Then assembled the stocking, added a cuff and a loop for hanging. I also embroidered each persons name on the cuff.

Happy Christmas to All!

Snickerdoodles

2011-12-08T07:44:00.001-08:00

These are my 2nd favorite cookies. My favorites are found here.

They are super yum and easy to make.

Snickerdoodles

Cream together the following until

light and fluffy:

3 cups sugar

2 cups butter melted

Now add:

4 eggs

Mix well

In another bowl combine:

5 1/2 cups flour

4 tsp Cream of Tartar

2 tsp Baking Soda

1/2 tsp salt

Sift together and gradually add to creamed mixture. Blend well.

The dough will look like this.Spoon onto parchment paper and sprinkle liberally with cinnamon sugar.

Bake at 400 degrees on a pizza stone like this one for 8-10 minutes. Let cool slightly and store in a sealed container. Makes about 6 dozen cookies.

Beautiful, yummy and ready for your Cookie Exchange!

Christmas Banner

2011-12-07T07:48:00.001-08:00

I thought I'd share my Christmas Banner and try taking pics outside for a change.

For some reason, maybe because of Harry Potter, but I like Happy Christmas better than Merry Christmas. So that's what I put on my banner. The letters were cut on my Cricut with the Storybook Font. It has these great additions to the letters that really changes the look.

The snowflakes are cut from wax paper and they back a few of the letters.

I decided to join the words with a large bow. The ribbon came from Costco.

Here's the finished banner.
Happy Christmas to all!

Super Yum No Bake Cookies!

2011-12-05T13:17:00.001-08:00

Let me just say that these cookies are dangerously addictive.

Plus they are super easy to make.

OK. Disclaimers done, here the how to:

No Bake Cookies

In a large saucepan combine the following:

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup milk

1 3/4 cups sugar

4 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa

Mix well til smooth and heat over medium until boiling.

Boil for 1 1/2 minutes. The boiling time is very specific. It ensures the cookies will hold together properly.

After mixture has boiled for 1 1/2 minutes, remove from heat and stir in:

1/2 cup crunchy or smooth peanut butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

3 cups quick cooking oats

Mix well to dissolve peanut butter and evenly distribute oats.

Drop onto wax paper covered cookie sheet.
If it's cold outside, put the pan in the garage for about an hour. Otherwise put in freezer to speed up hardening.

Remove from wax paper and

gobble them up!

Seriously! I can't eat just one!

Banana Bread

2011-12-04T16:00:00.001-08:00

I regularly make this recipe. Everytime I have a few bananas left that are starting to turn brown and spotty. The kids won't eat them if there is any brown on them, so needless to say I make Banana bread a lot! Usually I double the recipe and stick one loaf in the freezer for another day. It freezes well in a sealed plastic bag.

So here's the recipe:

Banana Bread

1/2 cup butter melted

2/3 cup sugar

1 Tbsp molasses

1 tsp vanilla

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp salt

Cream together the above ingredients in mixing bowl. Then add:

3 medium or 2 large ripe bananas broken in to about 1 inch size pieces

3 Tbsp jam - peach or apricot

1/4 cup honey

2 large eggs

Mix well again then add:

2 1/4 cups flour

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Mix just until smooth.

Spoon into greased bread loaf pan. Let rest while oven preheats to 325 degrees.

Bake for 45 minutes. Then lay a piece of aluminum foil over the top and bake for another 25 minutes.

Let cool, slice and enjoy!

Pies Pies Pies Yeah!

2011-11-30T06:20:00.001-08:00

I know. Thanksgiving was last week. I did make these before Thanksgiving but didn't get the pictures uploaded in time. Better late than never right?

The crust recipe is from King Arthur Flour. I love their site. So much good stuff. I used to use Martha Stewart's recipe all the time for crust, but I think I like KAF's better.

You will need:

2 1/2 cups unbleached pastry flour, or all purpose flour

3/4 tsp salt

Sift together or use pastry blender to combine flour and salt.

Cut in:

1/3 cup shortening (if you rinse the measuring cup with cold water first, it will help the shortening to come out easier)

1/2 cup cold unsalted butter

1/2 cup plus a few tablespoons more of

ice water

I keep a glass of ice water ready as I cut the butter into small cubes.

Blend together flour mixture, butter and shortening. Add ice water 2-3 tablespoons at a time until dough holds together but is still a little dry. I think I added a total of about 8-9 tablespoons of ice water.

Pour batter onto parchment paper. Sprinkle with water if still to dry.

Fold parchment over and press. Rotate and repeat about 7-8 times to get a nice ball of dough.

Wrap dough in plastic wrap and shape into a circle. Place in fridge for at least 30 minutes. NOTE: this is a must! It makes the dough so much easier to work with.

After dough has rested turn out onto well floured parchment paper. Turn to coat dough for easy rolling. add another sheet of parchment and roll out.

Place pie dish on crust and flip over to put crust in pan. Gently press in place and trim edges with a little extra dough on the edge.

Turn top edge under as shown. This gives a thicker nicer edge.

Flute edges as desired.

I cut little leaves and added a stem line with a knife to each leaf.

I used a 2 quart jars of apple pie filling from here, minus a little of the syrup.
Arrainge the leaves on top and brush with egg whites.

Bake at 400 degrees for about 45 minutes. Let cool slightly and enjoy!

This was a blackberry pie I had to put in a sqare pan since I ran out of round pie pans. Still super good though!

MMMMmmmmm warm Apple or Blackberry Pie. Delish!

Mason Jar Soap Dispenser

2011-11-29T15:00:00.001-08:00

Did you know you could make your own soap dispenser in a matter of minutes? Yep. I did. And with stuff you probably already have.

I used a spagetti sauce jar and the pump from a shampoo bottle.

Drill a hole in the lid. (I was a little nervous about drilling but it worked pretty well. Just be careful.) I spray painted mine before drilling, but when I do it again I'll wait until after drilling.

Cut the end off the pump to fit the jar. I used a hair band around the pump to secure it in place. A large rubber-band would work too. Fill the jar with soap and you are done. So easy!

Super cute! I love it on my counter!

I made another one for my bathroom. The cotton ball jar has a regular glass votive cup in the top. It fits perfectly! The jar in the middle is a vintage one I had. So nice and easy! Love it!

Petticoat Skirt Tutorial

2011-11-28T14:08:00.001-08:00

So it's time for family pictures again and I wanted something super cute for my daughter to wear. I've been looking for a while and still didn't find anything. I decided I needed to make the skirt I wanted for her and it only took less than an hour and a half. Here's how.

I used a twin size bedsheet in tan. Trim the seamed edges off. I used 3 strips lengthwise. Cut a little at the end and tear the rest of the way. So quick and easy. Each strip was about 4 inches wide.

I tore another strip about 3 inches wide for the flower. Fold the 3 inch strip in half and gather. I love my gathering foot for my sewing machine!

It's not one continuous strip but you could sew it that way if you wanted.

Make a simple A-line skirt to fit your little girl. Seam the sides of the front and back together.

Next I pinned the ruffles in place.

One goes all the way around the back and makes kind of a V in front. I added a small piece of ruffle under the V. Stitch the ruffles down.

After you have added all the ruffle, I used a cereal bowl to loosely mark a large circle to use as a guide for the flower.

Here's the flower loosely placed to make sure I had enough ruffle for the space.

After the flower is sewn down, cut a casing for the waistband.

Cut a piece of elastic to fit and pin the four corners.

Pin the elastic in place and serge or zig-zag.

Fold over the casing and stitch down. And Done!

It's so stinkin' cute,
I want one too!

A Fresh Bed

2011-11-22T19:41:00.001-08:00

Is there company coming?

Or do you just want to freshen up your bed as we head straight in to winter?

Here's a quick and easy way to do that.

Get 1 cup Baking soda and a few drops of essential oil. I used peppermint because it's my favorite. One blog I saw used Lavender. I think it smells like Old Lady. Not for me.

Place ingredients in a mason jar. Close and shake to distributed the essential oil.

Using the sifter, sprinkle the baking soda mix on your mattress. Let sit for about an hour. Then use your upolstery piece for your vacuum to remove all the baking soda. This will also help collect all the dust mites, and dead skin that is hiding in your mattress.

Here's to a fresh night's sleep!

Shirred Pillow Tutorial

2011-11-18T07:17:00.001-08:00

I love fabric. The way it feels, the different ways you can manipulate it to create something wonderful.

Here's a tutorial on how to make your own shirred pillow.

You will need 1 yard of fabric. I'm using a super soft chocolate brown courdoroy.

Cut two panels that are

18 inches by 42 inches.

Cut one of them in to pieces, one 18 inches by 15 inches, and the other 18 by 10 inches. That will be the envelope closure on the back side.

I am lucky enough to have a gathering foot for my sewing machine. If you don't have one, gather as you normally would. I started on one side and gathered about 1/2 inches from the edge.

Go all the way down the edge.

Turn the fabric and gather down the opposite side. It's OK that they are gathered in different directions. You won't know when it's done.

Turn it again and gather about 2 inches from the previous seam.
Repeat.

Here's the top piece finished. You could pin the edges to mark where the shirring lines will go. I just eyeballed it.

Change your stitch length to a regular stitch and top stitch each shirred line to add strength and stability.

Now get the two pieces for the back side and fold hem one side.

Lay them on top of each other to create the envelope opening. Pin in place.

Pin the top piece to the back, right sides together. I usually pin a ton to prevent shifting when sewing.

When you get to a corner, stop with the needle down, lift the foot and turn the fabric to ensure a clean corner. After it is sewn, I usually clip the corner fabric to prevent bulk in the corner.
But in this case I surged the edges. Either way is OK.

Turn the pillow right side out and stuff with an 18 inch pillow form. I always cut the pillow fabric to the same width as the pillow form. This keeps the egdes nice and full.

And you're done! Love it!

Glassware Collections

2011-11-17T12:40:00.001-08:00

I love collecting things. I collect a ton of different things. I'll share them, but for today it's glassware. I've always been intrigued by different types of glass, jars, vases, and apothecary bottles. And it's obvious if you look at my kitchen shelf.

There is a little old like the blue mason jars which are really blue, not just painted, and the apothecary large jug with the glass stopper.

There is also some new jars from Ikea and some other places I've long forgotten. I actually bought the large pitcher and basin at the state fair several years ago. I don't think it's truly vintage, but I love it anyway.

I tried to group them in a random way. Taller pieces in the back and shorter ones in front. No two like pieces next to each other.

What do you collect?

Thanksgiving Banner

2011-11-16T06:29:00.001-08:00

I finally finished my Thanksgiving decor just in time and I wanted to share.

I found these great vintage Thanksgiving art at The Graphics Fairy. There are so many great things there. I picked out my favorite ones, resized them in photoshop to fit my frames and printed them out.

Here's the right and left sides of my kitchen window.

Now for the banner. I cut the shapes on my cricut, Storybook font. Then inked the edges of the top letter and the brown base. Then I used Stickles to add the glitter to the right edge of each letter.

Next I followed the paper folding tutorial from Little Birdie Secrets found here. (I got to go to that party with Jessica and Mandy. I so miss them!)

Then I pulled apart a silk flower and put a brad through the center, gluing the whole thing together and punched holes in the corners of each letter.

For the string to connect them, I used this, picked 3-4 strands and wrapped tape around the end for easy threading. Kinda like a shoelace.

Here's a close up of part of the banner.

Here it is finished. So warm and festive!

Roasted Smashed Potatoes

2011-11-15T08:46:00.001-08:00

I discovered my new favorite way to make potatoes. It was in The Costco Magazine but I adjusted it a little.

Get 1 1/2 to 2 inch red potatoes.

Cook in microwave in covered container with about 1/2 inches water in bottom for about 10-14 minutes, or til fork tender.

Cover baking sheet with parchment paper. Evenly space potatoes and drizzle with olive oil.

Take another baking sheet and evenly smash down potatoes. Drizzle again with olive oil and season to taste. I used my favorite savory blend. The Costco recipe says use Thyme, Salt, & Pepper.

Set oven to broil and place potatoes on the next to the top rack for 5 minues, then the bottom rack for 5 minutes til nicely browned. I served mine with steamed asparagus and chicken cooked like this.

So quick, easy and super Yummm...

Gallery Walls part 2

2011-11-12T14:15:00.001-08:00

I am so loving all the gallery walls on Pinterest. I've been collecting things for a while and finally have a great space to display them.

This wall is in my kitchen. My kids favorite is the Pilsbury Dough Boy!

This wall is what you see when you come in. A few old plus a few new.

Remember the old window I posted here?

That window found a new home. I picked up the oval frame at the same time. I will eventually change out the picture to something that reflects my family a little more, but for now it works.

This was made from a metal hook from Pick Your Plum. The mirrors are from Ikea that I covered with red burlap rosettes. The frame still needs a pic but that's OK. The ribbon is free floating so I can change it if I want.

I got this frame at Michaels for 75% off. Sweet! Then I used a french script brush from Brusheezy in Photoshop. I love the brushes there!
The C is with Kings and Queen's Font. It's printed on left over packing paper. Looks vintage huh! Nope. 2 days ago.

I am also loving burlap. I had to do do some red roses for this wall. They are similar to the ones I made here. 1 inch strips coiled and glue-gunned down! Lovely!

Another view of my antique window. Love it!

Can you guess what I hid behind the star? The doorbell. It was this ugly white box that simply messed up my gallery wall. So it had to be covered up. And yes, we can still hear the doorbell. I tested it first. I promise.

Yeay! 2 walls down. Fweh.

A Quick Wall Collage

2011-11-10T08:05:00.001-08:00

So I love Pinterest. I spend way too much time on there, but I did find these wonderful wall art inspiration.

from thebirdspapaya.com

from here.

I have pictures of my babies all at about the same age. They almost look like quintuplets at this age, but they're not. There's a 10 year spread between the oldest and the youngest.

I wanted to do something that they would see everyday. Something to remind them who they are. So I did this:

Every time they come down the stairs they see this. It needs a little more but so far...

I love it!

Apple Pie in a Jar + some Crepes

2011-11-07T13:22:00.000-08:00

It's apple season. I love it! So many wonderful varieties. Honeycrisp are heavenly. Fuji are another fav. But for pie filling, Granny Smiths are the best. Plus their color is gorgeous!

Since I need to save some of this fall yummy-ness I thought I'd share my

pie filling recipe. So here goes.

One box of Granny Smith apples - 40 lbs

Canning jars, lids and rings

Cutting board

Large bowl

Pineapple Juice

Apple slicer and paring knife

Each flat of apples will do about 6 jars. There are 5 flats in a box.

Start cutting apples. I cut them with the slicer, then cut the skins off and slice each piece one more time to make them thin. Place cut apples in large bowl with Pineapple juice in it. I used most of the large can to do all the apples. The juice keeps the apples from turning brown before they are processed.

Stir occationally to coat the apples with the Pineapple Juice.

Now lets make the syrup.

In a mixing bowl combine the following:
4 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup cornstarch
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
Mix well to distribute the cornstarch.

In a thick bottomed stock pot combine:
2 1/2 quarts water
1/4 cup molasses
Dry mixture

Stir well and frequently over medium heat. Heat to boiling and sauce is thickened and carmel-y color.

Fill jars with apples then ladle hot syrup over apples.

I prep my lids by placing them in about 1/2 inch water in a sauce pan and heat almost to boiling. When jars are filled with apples and syrup, top with lids and screw on rings.

I use a steam canner. Cover and process for 20 minutes.

Once they are done place on counter to rest for at least 24 hours. Don't touch until then, test for proper seal by pushing on the lid. If it springs back, it didn't seal. If so, Perfect. Write the date and add to your pantry.

Now here's one of our favorite ways to eat apple pie filling!

Crepes

(for my family of 7 I double the recipe and it's just enough)
In a blender combine in order with blender on low:
2 eggs
1 cup flour
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup milk
1/4 tsp salt
2 Tbsp butter melted

Mix well until smooth.
Pour 1/3 cup onto small fry pan swirling the pan to distribute batter.
Cook til done, flipping half way.

Fill with your favorite filling. We like Pie filling, jam, fruit, etc. Top with chocolate sauce, or whipped cream.
So GOOD!

It's Halloween at my house!

2011-10-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

It's Halloween at my house and I thought I'd share a quick project that was free.

I used the mouse templates from Martha Stewart to cut out a bunch of mice out of construction paper and some webs and another spider like the one I used for the Bleachy Halloween project.

I just glued them to some left over packing paper cut to fit the garage door windows. Then I used packing tape to tape the paper to the inside of the windows.

Love it!

Now if I could just figure out how to animate the mice....

Happy Halloween everyone!

Bumper Pad Tutorial part 2

2011-10-27T10:10:00.000-07:00

OK let's do some construction on the bumpers. I'm so excited! Get your inside piece, the piping fabric and your piping. I'm using really small pipe that is paper constructed. You can get cotton pipe at the fabric store in numerous sizes. I've even used 1 inch pipe on bumpers before. Huge but very cute. Since these are for boys I didn't add a ruffle to the top edge but you could do that here at this stage.

Lay the pipe fabric right sides together along the top edge of the inside fabric.

Lay the pipe along the edge and fold up the pipe fabric to cover the piping. You should have enough fabric to cover the fabric with extra for seam allowance.

Stitch along top edge encasing the piping as you go. You can construct the piping before attaching to the fabric but this method saves a step.

When you get to a seam of the pipe fabric lay seam allowance open. This avoids bulk.

Now switch your foot on your sewing machine to the zipper foot. This allows for a tight seam along the piping. Lay the outside fabric, wrong sides together, along the top edge and seam keeping foot as close to the piping as you can. You can feel it with your fingers, but don't stitch over the piping.

Now that the inside and outside are attached lay out the fabric and pin it to mark where the ties will go.

This is the step where you make the length right.
I lay the fabric at zero and mark at 28 inches.
Move the pin to zero and mark at 25.5 inches.
Move to zero and again mark at 25.5 inches.
Move it to zero and mark at 28 inches.
Move to zero and mark at 25.5 inches.
Last time, zero then at 25.5 inches.
Cut off the excess leaving about 1 inch for end seam allowance.

Open the ends and cut one tie in half. Pin about 1-2 inches from the top and another on the bottom. These ties keep the ends tied together. Stitch along the end edge backstitching on the ties to secure.

Turn the bumper right side out and where the pins marked the bottom edge is were you will attach the ties. I start at the top and lay the middle of the tie on the fabric and stitch all the way down like this:

At the bottom fold the inside and outside fabric together like this:

Continue all the way around the bumper.

Now it's time to cut the foam. I cut 1 inch high density foam at 8 inches.

Get out your batting and wrap each piece of foam loosely, covering both sides.

I used to use spray adhesive to attach the batting, but it's not necessary.

Stuff each section with the batting covered foam adjusting to keep it even and not bunched anywhere.

Pin the bottom edge closed every few inches. I usually don't pin that much in my projects but this time... PIN PIN PIN! You'll thank me later.

The last step is the hardest, but it's the last so when you're done, you're done. Stitch along the bottom edge. This is really awkward and I keep the unsewn part over my left shoulder as I sew (I've never gotten a pin in my ear so don't worry) Go slow and keep the edges together and not bunched. Now clip threads and you're done! Hoorray!

The places were you attached the ties are the natural corners for the crib with an extra section on the sides to keep the sides secure to the crib. Tie the ends together, then attach them to the crib.

My cute nephew "L" in his monster shirt!

My cute nephew "J" in his monster shirt!

Now you know how to make your own bumpers! Good luck and send me a message if you get stuck. I'd be happy to help!

Bumper Pads Part 1

2011-10-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

In a previous time in my life I was a Professional Seamstress. My specialty was bumper pads. I've literally made over 100 sets in all shapes, colors, sizes, and designs. If you can dream it, I've probably made it. I even made a complete set of bumpers, dust ruffle, and drapes for the guy who patented the flatscreen TV and his partner who wrote for the show Will and Grace. (didn't know they were "partners" when I took the job but loved the results anyway.)

My cute baby sister had twins recently and desperately needed new bumper pads. This will probably be my 4th set of twin bumpers. I love making them! They are a little work, but so worth it because they are totally customizable. I am frequently asked to help make bumpers and thought I'd post my tutorial. Personally this is the best way to make them and I'm happy to share. So lets get started.

Materials:

1 1/2 yards fabric for inside of bumper

1 1/2 yards fabric for outside of bumper

1 yard for ties

1/2 yard for piping

1 sheet 1 inch firm density foam

1 twin size high loft batting

Thread to match

3 3/4 yards piping (size of your choice)

Since my sister loved stripes that's what I did. Kind of in strip quilting fashion, I cut several strips, sewed them together, ironed then cut them down to 11 inch pieces. Then sewed each piece together to make one long strip. Since the crib bed inside is 52 inches by 28 inches, you'll need 160 inches in length. I would give yourself another 3-5 inches as a cushion.

If you're not piecing the inside, or the outside, you need 4 cuts at 11 inches. Sew each piece together to make one long strip. Don't worry about excess. You'll cut it off later.

There was a time when ties were huge, like 2 inches wide and about 2 feet long so you could tie a big bow. That has changed. Now they are much smaller and simpler. I cut these as 2 inch strips.

You will need a total of 14 ties. Cut strips down to about 10-12 inches long.

Fold in half, press, open and fold sides to center, press again, then fold in half and press again.

It will look like this, kind of like bias tape. (sorry about the ghost shadow in the foreground... )

Tuck ends in and stitch along folded line. I sewed mine continuously to save time. Press and clip apart.

Last step for today is to make the piping for the top edge of the bumper. I cut strips wide enough to cover my piping plus about 1 inch for seam allowance. Sew strips together in one continuous strip. I do it in one seam to save time.

Note: I was using Chenille for part of the fabrics in the bumper that's why there are so many little white dots on the brown courdoroy. Seriously Chenille gets everywhere. I feel like I'm wearing more than actually is in the project.

Feathers are worse. Don't get me started on that one. Thank goodness they aren't popular anymore.

Now you're halfway done.

Tomorrow will be the fun part!

Homemade Ravioli

2011-10-24T10:07:00.000-07:00

I love learning new things. Especially when it comes to food. In Seattle we found this great place called Cook's World that offers all kinds of cooking classes. My friends and I tried the pasta class and loved it! I will definitely be making more pasta. The fam loved it and asked when we were going to make more. Awesome!

This was me!

This is my good friend Megan.

And my good friend Shelley.

Luckily I already had this pasta maker I bought years ago at Shars. It's a great Gilbert, AZ store that sells everything for the kitchen and then some, and teaches free classes. I missed them while in Seattle. I bought mine on sale for about $30. Amazon has the Norpro Pasta Maker here.

Anyway I've wanted to try the recipes we made in our class and thought I'd share.

Wet Pasta Dough for Filled Pasta

In a mixing bowl place 1 1/4 cups all purpose flour or 10 oz and make a well in the center. (I doubled the recipe since I'm feeding 7. It was just enough)

In another bowl whisk 2 whole eggs and pour into the flour well. Stir with a fork to combine. Drizzle 1 Tbsp cold water over flour mix and stir until it begins to form a mass. I added a bit more water to get the consistency I wanted. With your strong hand knead the dough a few times incorporating any loose flour.

Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 4-5 minutes until it is uniform in color and texture and springs back when you poke it.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let rest on the counter for at least an hour.
*don't forget this step. It makes it much easier to work with.

When the dough is done resting divide into halves, 4 if you doubled the recipe. Recover the pieces you're not using to prevent drying. Run the dough through the pasta maker at setting 1 for about 5-6 times, folding dough onto itself between rolls.

Move the setting to 2 and roll through 2-3 times.
Then setting 3 and roll 2 times.
Setting 4, roll 2 times.
Setting 5, roll 1 time.

Heavily flour counter and lay pasta down. It will seriously stick to the counter without alot of flour. I had to re-roll one of the pieces because it stuck so bad.

Make your filling. Get creative.
I used 1 1/2 cups butternut squash cooked.
3 oz goat cheese
1 heaping Tbsp parmesan cheese.
Pinch of favorite seasoning blend.

Puree mixture and spoon onto pasta.

Wet one side of the pasta with your finger an fold over pressing to seal. Cut with decorative cutter if you have one, otherwise use a pizza cutter to separate each ravioli. Drop into salted boiling water and remove when they float.

I tossed mine with melted butter and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Add a side salad and you're done!

So Yum!

My $4 King Tut Costume

2011-10-17T15:11:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again.

Halloween Costumes.

My son needed an Egyptian Pharoah costume for a class project so I got to kill 2 birds with one stone.

Plus I only spent $4. Yep. $4.

Looks pretty good if I do say so myself.

For the collar it's just tin-foil and cardboard. Cut the shapes out of cardboard and cover with tin-foil. I taped the back with Scotch-Tape to hold.

The beads were some cheap ($2.50) gold tone plastic beads that we stitched onto the plates with heavy thread and a yarn quilting needle. Then strung them together with ribbon. I cut the slits with a paring knife. Leave enough ribbon in the back to tie together. The apron was constructed the same way just longer cardboard pieces.

The top was made from a piece of packing tape folded together then wrapped in tin-foil. I used a yard of red satin that I had on hand, folded the top and used packing tape to hold in place.

The tunic was from an old bed sheet that I used one of his t-shirts as a pattern and serged together. I added a strip of silver ribbon to the hem to finish the look.

The staffs were made from old broken tent poles wrapped in tin-foil.

The tassle was $1.50 in the clearance isle. We wrapped his arm with the rope left over from the tassle tie-back.

Not too shabby for an Egyptian Pharoah!

A Bleachy Halloween Project

2011-10-06T07:27:00.000-07:00

I have been anxious to try bleach on t-shirts and thought Halloween might be the perfect time. All I used was Q-tips, Bleach, & Freezer Paper. Grab some shirts and lets get started!

I found the spider image on Google Images, printed it the size I wanted, cut it out of Freezer paper and ironed it in place on my shirt.

Put a plastic bag inside your shirt to prevent bleeding. Next outline the spider with the bleach Q-tip and create your web. It was orange-y at first but as it dried it became more white.

Remove the freezer paper and let dry. Wash as normal.

We did one with a cat face for my little girl. Cut the freezer paper to create a resist, paint inside the lines with the Bleachy Q-tip & let dry.

My son wanted a fly in the web so I found another image and followed the same process. Then I added a red hour glass on the spider to make it a black widow with craft paint.

This one is mine.

Happy Haunting!

NOTE: I love the look but you need to be careful. My shirt was pretty thin knit and the bleach ate through the fabric in one spot. Use a heavy-er knit and you should be fine.

Amazing Lotion Bar

2011-10-05T11:37:00.000-07:00

I found Majestic Mountain Sage a few years ago. I was in my make my own lotions etc. phase. I stumbled across this recipe on their site and decided to try it. It is simply amazing! I have terribly dry cracky heels and going 4 months in flip-flops doesn't help. I won't post pictures. No one wants to see that. But when I use this lotion bar on my feet at night and put socks on, in the morning they are completely TRANSFORMED! I'm not kidding. I have a friend whose husband works in construction which means his hands are like sandpaper. They tried some of this and Voila! soft nice hands again. The recipe is really easy. They post the ingredients in ounces and I do have a scale, but I'd rather use measuring cups so I weighed then measured so I'll list both amounts.

Here's the ingredients.

Lotion Bar

1.5 oz wt Beeswax or 1/3 cup
1 oz wt Regular Cocoa Butter or White Cocoa Butter or a scant 1/4 cup
1.5 oz wt Shea Butter Refined or just shy of 1/4 cup like this:

2 oz Sweet Almond oil or 1/3 cup
1/4 tsp Vitamin E Acetate

Combine all ingredients in a microwave safe bowl like this:

Heat to melt and stir until completely melted and combined.

It will be clear like this.

I found this cute metal tin at Michael's for $2. One batch fits perfectly in the tin.

Pour liquid in the tin and stick it in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes to solidify.

When it's done it will look like this and have the faint smell of Chocolate! Who doesn't love that!?! The lotion bar is a little greasy so I just hold the tin and rub it on my heels. It works great!

This would be a perfect spa gift for your BFF. Trust me, anyone you give this to will love it!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Coconut Balls

2011-10-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

A quick yummy treat. Think Reeses and Almond Joy fused together.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Coconut Balls

In a large microwave bowl combine the following:

18oz jar peanut butter - creamy or regular

5 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1 cup butter

Place in microwave and melt. About 1 minute at a time, heat and stir.

Spray 9x13 pan with cooking spray.

Spread peanut butter mix in pan.

Melt chocolate bark in microwave or in double boiler. I used chocolate chips and added a little milk to make it smooth and spreadable. Spread over peanut butter.

Place pan in fridge to firm up. About 1 hour. Remove and form into balls. Roll in coconut and put back in fridge. Let set for 1 hour and serve.

They're great treats to tuck into the lunch box! Enjoy!

German Pancakes

2011-10-04T11:56:00.000-07:00

Another family favorite we eat regularly. Just wanted to share. We call it German Pancakes, but it's also been called Puffy Oven Pancakes.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

In the blender add 1 1/4 cup milk and 7 eggs. Turn on low and let blend while getting 1 cup flour. Gradually add flour while blender is on. Keep mixing while doing the rest of the prep.

Melt 1/2 stick butter. Generously spray 9x13 pan with cooking spray. Pour melted butter in and rotate pan to spread butter all over the bottom of the pan.

When the oven is preheated, add a pinch of salt to the egg mix then pour into prepared pan. Try not to mix the butter and the egg mix.

Bake for 22-23 minutes. It will come out all huge in the pan. We love this part!

You can top it with fruit and whipped cream, regular maple syrup, or make our favorite - Buttermilk Syrup!

Did you know you can make your own buttermilk in about 1 minute? This way you can only make what you need and not waste 3/4 of a carton of store bought because you only needed 1/2 a cup.

Get 1/2 cup milk and add 1 1/2 tsp vinegar. Let sit for about 1 minute.

In a sauce pan melt:
1 cube butter
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup buttermilk

Bring to a slow boil and boil for 1 minute.
Keep stirring so it doesn't boil over.
Take off heat and add:
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp baking soda
Stir well. This will store in the fridge for up to one month.

Sooo Yummy!

Hawaiian Delight

2011-09-29T15:13:00.000-07:00

For some reason I've been in the mood for Hawaiian stuff. Call me crazy. It's OK. I don't mind. Anyway here's what I made. First,

Slow Cooker Coconut Sweet Potatoes

1/3 cup brown sugar
(I made this with white sugar and 1 Tbsp molasses. Mix well to get this)

Peel and dice 2 lbs of Sweet Potatoes. Place in crock pot.

Cover with brown sugar, 1/4 cup butter melted, 1/4 cup coconut, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4.
When finished stir in 1/4 tsp vanilla and 1/4 tsp coconut extract.

Toast 1/2 cup coconut in oven to sprinkle on top.

Second,

Hawaiian Delight
Heat your pressure cooker on the stovetop with 2 Tbsp olive oil.
Brown 6-8 chicken tenders
Add 1 cup white basmati rice
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Cover and bring to pressure. Pressure at second ring for 5 minutes. Drop pressure with cold water around rim of pot.

Add 3/4 cups sour cream
2 stalks celery chopped
1/2 bell pepper diced
1 bunch green onions chopped
2 cups canned pineapple chunks drained

Stir to mix and serve over bed of chow mein noodles, topped with toasted coconut.

A little Island Fare in the middle of the desert!

Molasses Oatmeal Bread

2011-09-28T20:56:00.000-07:00

This recipe is seriously one of my favorites! I got it from my good friend Erica who is an amazing baker. It is also a very versatile recipe. You can make it as whole grain-y as you want. I've done it multiple ways and it always turns out super yummy! Here goes:

Layer the following ingredients in your mixer.

(I use a Bosch, if you're using a Kitchen-aid you will need to 1/2 the recipe.)

5 cups hot tap water

4 cups quick oats

2 Tbsp salt

1 cup sugar or honey

2/3 cup oil or applesauce (they can be used interchangably)

2 eggs

1/3 cup molasses

It will look like this:

Next layer about 3 cups flour over the ingredients trying to cover the liquid. Then sprinkle over the top: 3 Tbsp yeast

Turn the mixer on and mix for about 30-40 seconds to combine the ingredients. Turn mixer off, cover and let sit for about 1-2 minutes. This lets the yeast develop.

Now turn on mixer and begin adding flour one cup at a time until it cleans the sides of the bowl.
See Clean Sides!

(The flour can be white, wheat, or a combination of both. If using more wheat than white, you'll need to add 2-4 Tbsp vital gluten to the dough)

Cover loosely and let rise. If using more wheat flour you don't need to let it rise twice. Go straight to the next step.

Once the dough is peeking over the bowl, remove lid and turn out on to floured surface.

Divide dough into 4 balls. (For Kitchen-aids, 2 balls.)

Knead into loaves and place in pans sprayed well with Pam or cooking spray. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise until dough is above the rim of the pan.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
When oven is ready, place loaves in oven and drop temperature to 325 degrees.
Bake for 32-33 minutes.

When bread is done, remove and brush tops with shortening. I use this little brush I got from King Arthur Flour here. Sweet!

Let cool slightly, slice and enjoy your
little piece of Heaven!

Mason jar Decor

2011-09-26T15:45:00.000-07:00

While working on this project I couldn't help thinking about Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. You remember the line from his song... "I use Antlers in all of my decorating!"

Well... I use Mason Jars.

Get 2 similar jars. I used two wide mouth pint jars. And find some cording. I may make holders out of wire someday but I like the rustic-ness of the twine.

Wrap the twine twice around the top of the jar and secure with a bread bag thingy.

Remove from jar and lay on table.
Cut 2 lengths of twine for the handle. I doubled mine.

Tie one side to loop.

Then tie the other.

Place the twine on the jar and tighten and tie the twine around the jar.

Now you're ready to hang them.

Mount your hooks to the wall.

Mine came from Rod Works.

I recently discovered them and have fallen in love. Luckily for me they opened a new store about 5 minutes from my house. I know there will be multiple trips in the forseeable future.

I still need to think about what to put in them. Maybe I need to go back to Rod Works for some ideas. But even with a few black rocks in them, I love it!

Halloween Graphics

2011-09-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

I'm so proud of myself. I finally got a Halloween thing done before October 30th. It's even still September. This is in my kitchen. Still no curtains. That will come. But for now I want to do holiday graphic each season. The jars at the top is for another post.

Gather your materials. I used Bazzil cardstock and some frames I had from IKEA.

Trim your cardstock to fit your printer. Print out images and trim to fit the frames.

My little boy loved the tarantula. He has one to match!

I use these gorilla hooks. I can put them anywhere and they are super easy to use.

Right Side

Left Side

I didn't even think about arrainging them to face the window. Luckily it turned out that way.

These came from Graphics Fairy. I love her site. So many great ideas and it's all free.

I resized them and added the frames in Photoshop. Feel free to download them. They are formatted to fit a 8.5x11in sheet of paper.

I think I may use these animal prints in my boys room when Halloween is over.

My oldest has a real snake. This would be perfect in his room.

Happy Halloween!

New Vintage Beadboard Signs

2011-09-20T14:26:00.000-07:00

New State.

New House.

New Life.

I'm sooo ready to craft again. You wouldn't believe how much time I lay in bed and think of crafting ideas. My husband says I'm an addict.

Yes. Yes I am.

I found these beadboard signs out in blog land and had to try my hand at them.

Super easy and cheap and customizable. (is that a word?)

Anyway here goes:

Supplies:

Cricut

Beadboard wainscot boards 6 per pack $11.00-ish

Can Spray paint in favorite color

$3.50-ish

Clear Contact Paper (the big roll)

$6.00-ish

The picture has stain in it, but when I used it on one of the boards, it totally ruined it. I'll have to repaint that one.

Don't use stain! A poly finish, fine, just no stain!

The wainscoat is great because it's precut for you. You can buy the big 4x8 sheet of beadboard and have your store cut it for you, but I didn't have time to wait. 4 year old in the cart. (need I say more)

Cut your contact paper to fit your cricut sheets and adhere. I cut letters with Stone Script, Billionaire, and Alphalicious. Use the lowest blade depth setting.

Remove the contact letters and place on your beadboard. This was a little tricky to get the spacing right, but luckly contact paper is easily repositionable and cheap if you mess up.

Next I took the boards outside to the back yard and laid down some plastic bed covers we had left over from moving.

Spray each board with spray paint with even strokes and don't forget the edges.

Let dry completely. (Thanks to the Arizona sun this didn't take too long)

Solar Power Rocks!

Carefully peel off the contact letters and discard. There may be some bleeding but it's OK.

Perfectly Imperfect is my mantra.

Sand the edges and face of the boards with a course grit sand paper and you're done! (You could add a clear coat of Polyurethane to protect the boards but I didn't have any on hand. I may do it later.)

Place in your home and enjoy!

It's so good to be crafting again.

Almost makes you want to go in and do some laundry...almost.

Artisian Bread

2011-05-19T05:57:00.000-07:00

My sister sent me this recipe for homemade Artisian Bread. Of course I added my secret grain blend of:

and quinoa to the mix.

Here's the Recipe:

Artisian Bread

In a 5 quart container that has a fitted lid mix the following:

3 cups lukewarm water

1 1/2 Tbsp yeast

1 1/2 Tbsp kosher salt or other course salt

6 1/2 cups flour

1 cup 11 grain blend (optional)

Mix in the flour 1 cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon. Kneading is unnecessary! You want a moist dough, but not runny. You may have to adjust the flour amount to get the right consistency.

Sorry my pictures are kinda crappy. My camera was being funny. (not ha ha...)Loosely cover the container and let sit on your counter for about 2 hours. Then tightly cover the container and place in your refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.

I wanted to try baking the bread in my dutch oven in the oven since we had great results baking it over coals in the fire pit. So I lined the dutch oven with tin-foil and sprinkled semolina flour around the bottom. Cornmeal will also work in place of the semolina.

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees with the dutch oven inside.

One batch of dough will make 2 large loaves in the dutch oven. Separate out half of the dough and gently shape in to loaf. No need to knead!

Remove the dutch oven when the oven is done preheating and place dough inside.

Replace the cover and put in oven. Bake for about 35 minutes. The recipe says to slash the top of the dough with a serrated knife. I forgot to do that so the top is, well you can see. Not terrible, but not pretty either.

Let bread cool mostly then slice and enjoy!

Our friends love dipping bread and this works wonderfully! A little Balsamic Vinegar, Olive oil, and salt and pepper and you are good to go!

Personally we love oven roasted garlic bread.

Slice up bread and butter one side. Sprinkle with garlic salt and reform loaf. Wrap with tin foil and place in a 350 oven for about 15-20 minutes.

Remove, unwrap and, mmmmm.... Garlicy Heaven!

(Sorry there are no pictures. Too busy eating!)

A Family Favorite

2011-05-18T19:24:00.000-07:00

Another signature dessert from my mom-in-law.

Plus you get to break the #1 rule in crock-pot cooking. Who-hoo! Who wants to break some rules once in a while?

Rice Pudding

In your crock-pot combine the following:

8 cups milk (any kind works, but it all depends on how creamy, I mean fattening, you want the rice pudding to be.)

1 cup rice (not brown)

Stir a little and cover. Set crock-pot tohigh for about 1-2 hours.

Now for some rule breaking!

The #1 rule in crock-pot cooking is don't lift the lid until the food is done cooking.

For rice pudding you need to stir it about every hour or so, whenever youremember to do it. I've put some on and left it while we went to church so it's OK if it isn't stirred that often.

Keep the temp at High for about 1-2 hours, then turn it down to Low.

Cook and stir for about 5-6 hours or until it gets a tapioca consistency. When it reaches this point, turn off the crock-pot and add the following:

2-3 beaten eggs (raw)

1 cup sugar

1 shake salt

1 Tbsp vanilla

Stir like crazy to cook the egg and dissolve the sugar, about 2-3 minutes.

Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, raisins, nuts, or whatever other mix-in you like.

Sooo Good!

Corsage for Mom

2011-05-05T16:21:00.000-07:00

I'm usually a day or so late getting my holiday projects done, but this time I made it with a few days to spare. Fwewh!

I saw this flower on Make it-Love it.

I thought I would make a bigger one as a corsage for my Mom and Mother-in-Law, and myself.

It was quick and super cute.

So Mom, if you are seeing this before Mother's Day, yours is coming.

Cut about a 5 inch strip of satin or similar fabric. Iron flat.

Fold in half and press.

Next, serge or zig-zag the edge, starting at the folded edge curving toward the cut edge like this.

Next gather the strip of fabric.

(I have so missed my gathering foot for my sewing machine. I finally got my industrial machine accessable again.)

Cut out 2 small circles and serge the edges. The serger doesn't want to curve very well so they ended up more like pentagons than circles. It's Ok.

Get out your bar pins and hand sew to the top edge of one of the fabric circles.

I forgot to take a picture pre-gluing but here's what the back looks like.

I used this Fabric glue to form the flower.

Next start at one end and glue and roll about 2-3 inches of the end to form the center of the flower.

Starting from the outside of the fabric circle, glue the ruffle in a spiral working toward the center. Be sure to leave a little open space in the center for the tight roll you made. When you get to the center, cover the bottom of the tight spiral with glue and press into the center of the flower to adhere in place.

I made 3 of them and they each turned out a little different, but each beautiful.

Pin in place and you are ready to go!

Happy Mother's Day!

Sneaky Pizza Night

2011-05-03T06:17:00.001-07:00

My family loves homemade pizza. They would have it every day if I'd allow it.

So since we have this often, not every day mind you, but often, I needed to make it a little more healthy so I have some secret weapons to increase the nutrition.

First is Bob's 10 Grain Cereal.

I make a batch of this at the beginning of the week. I add it to my bread, or eat it for breakfast. When I cook it up, I add Quinoa.

Quinoa is pronounced Keen-Wa. I'm not sure where that pronounciation came from but there you go. It is the most healthy grain in my opinion. It is a complete protein. No other grain can make that claim. It also adds a nutty flavor to your foods.

So good!

Next is my Garlic Powder. A must for pizza.

So here's the recipe:

Sneaky Pizza

Makes 2 large pizzas, or 2 medium pizzas and 2 bread sticks.

In your mixer combine the following, layering the ingredients:

2 1/2 cups warm water

3 Tbsp honey or sugar

1 1/2 cups cooked grain cereal or oatmeal

3 cups flour

2 Tbsp yeast

Mix well. It will be runny. Cover and let sit to "sponge" for 10-15 minutes. Then pulse to release air.

Next add the following:

4 Tbsp olive oil

1 cup flour to separate sponge from salt.

1 tsp salt

1 1/2 tsp garlic powder

(Feel free to adjust salt and garlic powder amounts to your taste. I have also used sea salt or kosher salt in place of the iodized table salt with excellent results.)

Mix adding flour until dough cleans the sides of the bowl. Add about 1/4-1/2 cup more flour. Knead for 10-15 minutes.

Separate dough into 1 3/4 to 2 lb size balls onto floured surface. Let rest for 5-10 minutes.

After it's done resting, you can shape your pizzas. It's great for the kids to help.

Be sure to add flour as needed to keep it from being too sticky.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

Next get out your parchment paper. Sprinkle semolina flour on parchment to keep pizza from sticking.

Assemble your ingredients. We recently discovered how good real bacon is on pizza. It was an accident because I forgot I didn't have any Canadian Bacon.

I must say, Real Bacon is much better!Roll out your dough and cut with a pizza cutter to make breadsticks.This batch I added a little cheese.

Bake for 8-9 minutes. I bake mine on my Pizza Stone. If you don't have one you can put the parchment directly on the wire rack in your oven. When the breadsticks are done, brush with Olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt.

Top your pizzas with sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings.

After baking, let cool slightly to make cutting easier.

Enjoy!

PS. You can use this dough to make pizza roll-ups or calzones. I've done both and they are super yummy!

Quick Up-cycled shirt

2011-04-18T15:51:00.000-07:00

I love up-cycled shirts.

A little ribbon. A little ruffle. I'm good to go.

Here's a quick one I came up with.

I pleated the ribbon kind of randomly on the sewing machine.

Pin the ribbon in place and stitch in place. Be careful not to stitch the back of the shirt to the front. I added another smaller ribbon randomly pleated around the larger loops.

I love it!

I've been up to somethin'...

2011-04-12T13:39:00.000-07:00

I've decided that I have Crafting ADD.

Nothing negative or against those who really have the disease.

I have relatives that do.

But I am constantly thinking of new projects. Usually before the one I'm currently working on is finished. And I usually have more than one project in production phase.

And I almost never ever make the exact same thing twice. I should. Some stuff turns out pretty good if I do say so myself.

I've also gotten lazy and haven't got the camera out while I'm working so here is a smattering of recent projects. Trust me, it's a real SMATTERING!

The doll bed came from Grandpa last Christmas.

I made the doll blanket for her bunny doll.

I made this ballerina for my little girl for her birthday.Shoes too.

I made this purse kind of out of my head. No pattern. I love the birdie fabric I found. Perfect spring combination.

This purse idea came from all the super cute ruffled bags out there. I thought I'd try my hand. I think I still may add a flower where the ruffles converge.

I made this "Chain's of Love" wall hanging as a gift for my parents. I saw the hand design in the Airport in Phoenix, AZ. I love how the hands make hearts. I hand stitched the names of all my sisters on each pair of hands.

I made this wreath for the Makia craft contest. Just like the other one I made.

Since I had some flowers left over, I decided to make this pillow.

Next are some beaded hair pins. I found them on the Martha Stewart craft site and made mine a little different.

These are flowers I made similar to the wreath ones only on a smaller scale. I glued a large clip on the back with felt to hold it together.

During a crafty Skype date with my sisters, I made this headband with ribbon flowers, felt and hand stitched beads.

Lastly are a couple of shirts I did. Just get two shirts, cut up one into strips, make the ruffle and sew it on.

Thanks for letting me share. I've already got a head full of new projects. I can't wait to show-and-tell.

Pressure Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

2011-04-09T10:54:00.000-07:00

I'm on a mission.

My Husband and I recently watched a YouTube video talking about the differences between the American and Japanese diets.

I'm paraphrasing, but the US diet has about 47 different things in it. The Japanese has about 113 different things. Big difference.

So I'm trying to try new things.

My sister also challenged me to provide her with some Pressure Cooker Recipes that she can use. I love my pressure cooker. SO quick and easy.

You can find them here.

I have a Kuhn Rikon which is a great pressure cooker too, but there is something to be said about an electric one. I can set it and walk away.

No babysitting.

Anyway here's a recipe I tried the other night. The goal was 2 fold.

Use the pressure cooker and incorporate more variety of foods.

It was very yummy, even my most picky-est eaters loved it.

Chicken Cacciatore

Dice up the following:

2 cups onions or leeks

1 medium green bell pepper

5 button mushrooms, or another favorite variety

I turned the Pressure Cooker on to Saute. If using a regular one, place on stovetop and turn to medium-high heat.

Add 1 Tbsp olive oil

Put the onions and peppers in and stir frequently to saute about 2 minutes.

Stir in mushrooms.

Next you can do this two ways:

One:

place 3 lbs bone-in skinned chicken breast, or thighs or a combination on top of the onion mixture.

Pour 2 cans tomato sauce over the top of the chicken.

Lock lid in place. Bring to pressure and cook for 8 minutes. Remove from heat and let pressure come down naturally.

Cook 12 oz spriral pasta according to package directions.

Or Two:

After adding mushrooms, add 1 1/2 cups chicken broth. and 12 oz spiral pasta. Cut up boneless chicken breast or thigh or a combination. Place on top of pasta and onion mixture. Then top with 2 cans tomato sauce.

Lock lid in place. Cook under high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release.

Next add:

1 can black olives sliced

2 Tbsp fresh or dried parsley

1 1/2 hands-full mozarella cheese (about 1 1/2 cups)

1/4 cup parmesean cheese

Salt and Pepper to taste

Stir well to melt cheese.

Spoon onto plates, and top each serving with additional parmesean cheese.

So quick and yummy!

Easter Breakfast Casserole

2011-04-05T18:31:00.000-07:00

My family loves this breakfast casserole. It would be perfect for Easter Brunch, or a Tuesday morning during Spring Break. Either works.

Breakfast Casserole

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cube up about 1/3 to 1/2 a loaf of bread.

(any kind works, homemade, store bought, my personal favorite it the Apple Streusel bread from Costco but I don't buy it very often. A cinnamon raisin bread would be yummy too. Whatever you have on hand.)

Spray a 9x13 inch pan with cooking spray.

Spread the cubes evenly in the pan.

In a separate bowl combine the following:

1 cup sugar

2 cups milk

4 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

Whisk together like this:

Pour milk/egg mixture over the bread trying to cover most of the bread cubes.

Sprinkle 1/2 cup chopped nuts over the bread.

Bake for 45-50 minutes.

Remove and let cool slightly before serving.

We like it with a little maple syrup drizzled over the top and some fruit on the side. Maybe a little hot chocolate too.

Sooooo Yummy!