tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80516581020630078012024-02-19T01:47:38.116-08:00Green Eggs & HammanRaehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-1732011660415054902014-07-28T15:47:00.001-07:002014-07-28T15:47:06.470-07:00Daily EO Uses<span id="goog_1666494434"></span><span id="goog_1666494435"></span><span id="goog_519202320"></span><span id="goog_519202321"></span>Hello blog world. It has been almost a year since I last wrote. :( And along with that, it has been a year since I bought my <a href="https://nettrax.myvoffice.com/doterra/ShoppingCart/Shop.cfm?pid=24966566388430852" target="_blank">essential oils</a> that started everything!<span id="goog_593566898"></span><span id="goog_593566899"></span><br />
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It has been an awesome journey in learning to use the oils and sharing them along the way.<br />
I have been trying to get my friends and acquaintances aware of essential oils and I wanted to share examples of how I use the oils in my everyday routines.<br />
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-<b>OnGuard Toothpaste</b><br />
-OnGuard is a protective blend that helps your body's immune system. I have this in a <b>roller bottle</b> diluted with almond oil to roll on the bottom of my feet every morning.<br />
-<b>OnGuard Spray:</b> I have a couple drops of OnGuard mixed in water to clean my dogs teeth. I spray this on a cotton round and wipe down her gums and teeth every couple days.<br />
-<b>Produce Spray: </b>I have a few drops of lemon oil (or OnGuard) in a spray bottle full of water. I use this to spray fresh fruits and vegetables. Spray and let it sit for a few minutes, then wash off as usual.<br />
-<b>Peppermint</b>: I have a roller bottle with a peppermint/almond oil mixture. Mine is diluted about 1:2 ratio. I keep this in my purse for headaches or minor nausea.<br />
-<b>Solace: </b>This is now sold as <b>Clary Calm</b>. It is a special blend of oils to help with balancing hormones and other issues centered menstruation.<br />
-<b>Frankincense:</b> I have a roller bottle filled with almond oil and about 10-15 drops of Frankincense. I use this on minor cuts and scrapes. Frankincense helps prevent scarring, is an anti-inflammatory, and helps the body prevent infection among many other things.<br />
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-<b>Wintergreen</b>: I dilute a couple drops of wintergreen in a squirt of almond oil and rub on my muscles before a workout. Wintergreen helps to tone and develop muscles.<br />
-<b>Eucalyptus:</b> I dilute this about 1:1 with a carrier oil and rub on sore/overworked muscles.<br />
-<b>Deep Blue</b> is great before and after workouts. I have bad knees and I put on dilutes Deep Blue before my workouts. I have this in a roller bottle also for headaches. <b>Deep Blue Rub</b> is a concentrated cream heaven on my sore muscles after a hard workout.<br />
-<b>Balance</b> is a blend I use daily. I have it in a roller bottle at work and at home. At work I rub it on my wrists when I need to relax during a crazy day. At home, I roll it on my spine at night before bed to relax. This is also nice to diffuse. I love the smell :)<br />
-<b>Serenity: </b>This blend is one I am still getting used to the scent of. It is great for insomnia, and relieving anxiety, tension, and stress, just to list a few. I have it diluted in a roller with FCO. I roll this on my feet every night before bed and massage it in for a minute. I have been sleeping much better since I started this routine.<br />
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Some of these oils I use everyday, some I use every couple days as needed. These roller bottles and oils are a staple in my household. If you are considering buying some essential oils, these are some simple ways they can benefit you and your family.Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-46013600561651206442013-08-30T19:21:00.002-07:002013-09-01T16:51:36.397-07:00Wonderful Uses for Basic OilsI hope that my past few posts have at least gotten you thinking about what essential oils can do for you and your family. In this post I want to share with you some everyday ways to use some basic and popular oils- Lemon, Lavender, and Peppermint.<br />
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If you want to start using essential oils this is the place to start.<br />
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Lavender is extremely versatile from promoting calming sleep to disinfecting cuts and scrapes. Lavender has anti-depressant, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.<br />
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Peppermint is popular not only because it is recognized from candies, but it has abilities to ease stomach discomfort and boost mood. <br />
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Lemon has anti-depressant, antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. It also works great for a natural cleaning alternative. It can be used to ease scratchy throats or de-gunk sticky messes. <br />
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Attached is a document I made with a list of great uses for the three basic essential oils. <a href="https://www.iact1.com/doterra/ShoppingCart/Shop.cfm?CurrPage=FrontPage&NextPage=CategoryDetail&CategoryID=143&pid=1058128184117036817" target="_blank">doTERRA</a> offers two packages based around these basic oils. The first is The Introductory Kit with 5ml of each oil and an Intro CD. The second is the Beginner's Trio which has each oil in a 15ml size.<br />
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I will be honest and I have only had my oil kit for about 6 weeks and I have already exhausted my 5ml Lemon oil and 5ml Lavender oil. These oils are so useful and I am excited to get my next order in the mail, containing my 15ml bottles! These will go a lot farther for our medicine cabinet!<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B2dvT8h69TyjTkZEMFByVWRaT28/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Easy Oil Uses</a><br />
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Lavender
has antidepressant, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and
anti-toxic properties - See more at:
http://doterrablog.com/101-uses-for-the-intro-kit-part-13-lavender#sthash.zrSuZms4.dpu</div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
Lavender
has antidepressant, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and
anti-toxic properties - See more at:
http://doterrablog.com/101-uses-for-the-intro-kit-part-13-lavender#sthash.zrSuZms4.dpu</div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
Lavender
has antidepressant, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and
anti-toxic properties - See more at:
http://doterrablog.com/101-uses-for-the-intro-kit-part-13-lavender#sthash.zrSuZms4.dpuf</div>
Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-81819039547040930152013-08-27T19:36:00.001-07:002013-08-27T19:36:17.727-07:00Getting Started Essential OilsI am working on getting more people introduced to using essential oils in their everyday lives. In the past few days I have given friends samples and my husband is actually asking me to fix him up with appropriate oils. I am making strides in the right direction, although still using friends and internet guidance. I am learning as I go though. Thinking about make a print-out or file with all the information I am gathering!<br />
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Well since I am getting you interested in the idea and letting you see how it works for yourself, I guess I should come out there and tell you I am a <a href="http://www.mydoterra.com/greeneggs/" target="_blank">seller</a> with doTERRA. I didn't want to lead with that and I am not into being pushy. That is the reason I have lasted not selling pampered chef, or avon etc. I feel awkward selling stuff to people.<br />
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But seeing is believing, and if you see how well the oils work for you, then they kind of sell themselves! That is how I got hooked anyway!<br />
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My husband is still trying to trust in these oils to help him, and I am honestly still the tiniest bit skeptical, but the more I use them, the more they help me. It is worth a try.<br />
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Check back with me for a list of websites to check out great uses for doTERRA essential oils. Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-46019746953329154232013-08-26T18:01:00.000-07:002013-08-26T18:17:20.900-07:00Essential Oils pt. 2I am hoping that with my first post on essential oils I got you to do some thinking. Now I want to share some of the ways the oils have helped me.<br />
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<ul>
<li>Lavender: I use lavender almost every night before bed. I like to rub a little bit on my shoulders/back and on my pillow. The scent naturally helps you relax and I get better sleep when I use it. Lavender is also good for soothing bug bites, relaxing children before bed, to remove splinters and much more.</li>
<li>Peppermint: The main thing I like this for is nausea. Hubby and I drove to Vegas when I first got oils to use. I get very carsick and that was happening. I took off the lid and just smelled the bottle a couples times as needed and it kept my upset tummy at bay. Peppermint is also good for a pick-me-up, calming headaches and keeping spiders away.</li>
<li>OnGuard: This is the name for the blend by doTERRA but it is commonly known as Thieves. In the ages of the plague, thieves would use this blend of oils to keep from getting sick when robbing plague victims. I have a special love for this blend. I have been putting on my feet every morning (give or take a few) for over a month. Not a sniffle. And I work with children that are coughing, sneezing, runny nose machines. And I am usually always caught with a cold. I believe in this stuff.</li>
<li>DigestZen: This is another doTERRA blend. It is made to help with any digestive issues. I have used this a few times with good results and also seen good results using it on a 5mo baby. </li>
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Here are some of the blends I have put into roller bottles for easy access... OnGuard: to roll on bottom of feet every morning. Lavender and Peppermint to roll on feet to relax before bed. Eucalyptus and Spearmint because I like the scent. And Digestzen for easy access. All of these are also mixed with carrier oils to make it go farther. I have also made an allergy blend in a roller, a mixture of fractionated coconut oil, lemon, peppermint, and lavender. My friend is liking it so far. </div>
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I want to keep you all updated on how the oils work for me and would love to hear your thoughts!</div>
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There is still a lot more to the whole EO thing, but I can't sum it all up in two posts. More coming.</div>
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Again is you want to try the oils or have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! :)</div>
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Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-433617081184774852013-08-26T17:58:00.001-07:002013-08-26T18:02:59.745-07:00Essential Oils pt. 1So I have been trying to get up the nerve to write this post for a few weeks now. Living here in California is a whole new thing for Hubby and I, being from the midwest. A lot of things are done differently here being in CA and on a military base. Words like home birth, home-school, organic, and farmer's markets come to mind. I have enjoyed learning about all of these things in our time here.<br />
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Anyways...Here goes, I have started using Essential Oils. (Did I mention my husband lovingly refers to it as witch magic) I am sure you have heard of essential oils in some context, whether it be cooking, bath and body products, etc. I first got introduced to the idea when a friend was hosting a doTERRA party (a company specializing in essential oils). I couldn't make it to the party but started to wonder what was the deal with these EO's. Next a friend and her husband had gotten pretty sick and the friend used some oils to clear her sickness right up. Way faster than the husband on "American" medicine. I was really intrigued. At this point, I sat down with some other friends who had been using EO's and got a little lesson about them. I got some samples a couple weeks later and here I am.<br />
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The basic run-down on EO's is as follows:</div>
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<li>There are not official grades of EO"s but here is a general outline:</li>
<ul>
<li>Perfume: such as in bath and body products</li>
<li>Food: what you might buy at local store</li>
<li> Therapeutic: The oils I use, safe for body </li>
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<li>Because of the different grades, be cautious when buying oils to use on your body. I use <a href="http://www.doterra.com/us/index.php" target="_blank">doTERRA</a> and their oils are tested to be used aromatically, topically, and internally. </li>
<li>Essential Oil's absorb quickly into the skin, especially the skin on the bottoms of your feet. You can also use a carrier oil for strong oils or with oils on younger/sensitive skin. I use coconut oil and sweet almond oil as my carriers. Olive oil also works well.</li>
<li>Most essential oils are high in antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.</li>
<li>Essential Oils work in your body at the cellular level</li>
</ul>
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If you are interested in trying some essential oils or more information please message me and I will help you the best I can or find someone who can! <br />
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<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-40766215974221091032013-02-26T19:06:00.000-08:002013-02-26T19:06:54.375-08:00Grilled Breakfast SandwichIn our house we are huge fans of grilled cheese and cheese tortillas (or what normal people call quesadillas). Super easy, but still tasty enough for us! Well this recipe is pinterest inspired, but only by a photo I winged the recipe.<br />
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<b>You will need: </b><br />
-Bread<br />
-Butter<br />
-Cream cheese<br />
-Honey (optional)<br />
-Fruit<br />
-Jam or Jelly <br />
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I would recommend cream cheese spread like for bagels, but we had a block of cream cheese and Hubby likes it anyways, so no big deal. I added a little honey for sweetness with the C.C. </div>
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Spread on the jam and the fruit. I used homemade strawberry jam and blueberries. </div>
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Cook as you would the regular grilled cheese. I finished ours in the toaster oven for 30 sec-1 minute to make sure the cream cheese was melted along with the bread being toasted. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSOrbJ5rHxA1gggPFE3_7QOK6c-Fi0ZmExsBjaBL0M3dO09zxXOFPLZ36yVVeHnhI-qxnEiE2k7yyf7A4oveTbhcEa0kuyWj0IKjQ-9JrGC0c7FGmhZnAcYRQT113tQwJHB_VGfxaWbE/s1600/IMAG2278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSOrbJ5rHxA1gggPFE3_7QOK6c-Fi0ZmExsBjaBL0M3dO09zxXOFPLZ36yVVeHnhI-qxnEiE2k7yyf7A4oveTbhcEa0kuyWj0IKjQ-9JrGC0c7FGmhZnAcYRQT113tQwJHB_VGfxaWbE/s320/IMAG2278.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now doesn't that look delicious? </div>
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<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-59809887851093973692013-01-21T21:21:00.001-08:002013-01-21T21:27:03.583-08:00Whole Wheat Apple Pie!This pie was super easy to make! Back in September, we went to Julian apple picking with some friends. We brought home lots of apples and were not in the mood to eat them all. I did some googling and found a recipe to make <a href="http://homesteepedhope.com/2006/09/14/freezing-apple-pie-filling/" target="_blank">apple pie filling</a> to freeze.<br />
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The recipe is pretty straight forward. I am sure you could sub out some of the sugar for honey and use less water. I definitely halved or quartered this recipe because I didn't have 6-7 lbs of apples, but you get the idea. The author also says this recipe will last up to a year in the freezer! I have also made <a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2012/09/apple-crisp-pizza.html" target="_blank">Apple Crisp Pizza</a> with my frozen pie filling and it was delicious!<br />
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So we were celebrating one of our friends birthdays and I decided an apple pie would be a perfect 'birthday cake'. I pulled out one of my frozen apple pie fillings that morning and let in thaw on the counter/fridge until about 3pm when I starting baking.<br />
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Adapted from: <br />
<a href="http://www.cakespy.com/blog/2011/11/30/teenys-tour-of-pie-high-5-pie-seattle.html" target="_blank">Whole Wheat Pie Crust </a><br />
<ul>
<li>2 1/2 c whole wheat flour</li>
<li>1 tsp salt</li>
<li>2 tbs sugar</li>
<li>1/2 c Coconut Oil</li>
<li>1 1/2 sticks of butter (12 tbs)</li>
<li>~1/4 c vodka</li>
<li>~1/4 c water</li>
</ul>
Don't let the vodka scare you. I did a little research and it is legitimate and makes for a flakey crust.<br />
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Mix together the dry ingredients and cut in the butter and coconut oil. I don't have a pastry cutter, so I just used my hands. Mix it in well. I will be slightly crumbly. Now add the vodka and water and stir with a spatula. I used just under 1/4 cup of each. The dough will be wet! I promise it all turns out okay. Split in half and refrigerate in baggies or container for at least a half an hour.<br />
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After it has chilled, use two pieces of plastic wrap and roll out the dough between it. You want it just bigger than the pie pan. Press into a greased pie pan. Pour the filling into the pie. Mine was still cold. Roll out the second ball into the same shape and cut into slices for the lattice top. Weave it on top and you are ready for the oven. Bake @ 350 degrees for 45-55 minutes.<br />
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Serve warm with ice cream and caramel if you are feeling adventurous!<br />
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I want to make the blueberry pie on the crust website. Has anyone ever had or made a blueberry pie? What did you think?<br />
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Enjoy!Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-59700829484964224352013-01-05T10:56:00.002-08:002013-01-05T10:58:42.017-08:00A Healthier MeI debated whether to put this post up more privately on my other Blogger, but I think since it is about food and health, it can fit in just fine here. <br />
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So anyone who knows me well, knows I don't usually watch what foods I eat and don't work out. Since my husband and I have moved to CA both of these things have been challenged a lot more than I expected. There is a huge availability of fresh fruits and vegetables here, not to mention the big introduction (to me anyways) of organic foods.<br />
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In my house, growing up, I think we had a balanced enough diet, especially being that I was growing up and it was okay to gain weight as I went. We usually had a vegetable with dinner and shoved some fruits in. I ran throughout high school and that was a savior in the way my body looked and felt. However in college the typical happened. We ran to quick and easy foods and that was definitely not what we should have been eating.<br />
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But the point is I am trying to make a change in the way I eat and live my life. I know it will be slowly and I am not looking to jump into this all at once. I have a feeling I won't ever be able to cut sugars or carbs completely out of my diet. I am from a good ole' midwest family and I am Italian. You mess with my pasta, I mess with you ;). I am not looking (yet anyways) to change the whole way I cook, bake and eat, but I want to make a start by adding in veggies, fruits and healthier recipes overall!<br />
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So I went to the grocery store yesterday and came home with lots of fruits, veggies, greek yogurt, almond milk, chicken, good snacks and yes, a bag of sugar. (I just can't do it people!) I spent a good amount of time prepping the food and will spend some more time today. I don't want any excuses for not being able to eat healthy on a time crunch!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYftLDhLH0c4nCw1wsx1TdccXRFkor1gHp1NELz57Srb5wY5Q97rHhCtT2oYQBOM8890oR1JQ7oJhWYwNm5ZwhtOUx9jTkJjml23qbSsgXrqdOR5LEFHPFehPo92MnhOi1Y_LZVaZJWX4/s1600/P1090080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYftLDhLH0c4nCw1wsx1TdccXRFkor1gHp1NELz57Srb5wY5Q97rHhCtT2oYQBOM8890oR1JQ7oJhWYwNm5ZwhtOUx9jTkJjml23qbSsgXrqdOR5LEFHPFehPo92MnhOi1Y_LZVaZJWX4/s200/P1090080.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBel5054Gmmx0JAUxf-6nDn7iIJXeDGKACGh6ORBjVAW4wgOvYY9YNcXAc35zetVBrQTT3c65ehLuAVk06P5-FfxfKcMdMYoYbPrAuzjYHyz1zZzwrMborwmtngEYWTDdr-ProAFjReQ/s1600/P1090081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBel5054Gmmx0JAUxf-6nDn7iIJXeDGKACGh6ORBjVAW4wgOvYY9YNcXAc35zetVBrQTT3c65ehLuAVk06P5-FfxfKcMdMYoYbPrAuzjYHyz1zZzwrMborwmtngEYWTDdr-ProAFjReQ/s200/P1090081.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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So I gathered my fruits and veggies for smoothies. I love my green smoothie (spinach, pineapple, banana and apple or pineapple juice).<br />
I wouldn't usually get frozen fruit, but the commissary didn't have good prices on fresh strawberries so I opted out. The frozen packs are nice though because they have a variety of fruit and also a 'smoothie' powder pack, which I wasn't going to use but it made my green smoothie so good! But yeah, I chopped up the pineapple, banana and spinach and let it individually freeze before bagging it.<br />
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I think I made 6-8 smoothies bags. I like my fruit frozen and add either juice or milk to mix it, because I hate a 'warm' or thin smoothie. I like it thick and cold!<br />
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I also pre-chopped and mixed up a salad. I bought 3 bundles of fresh spinach and a bundle of lettuce greens. This salad bowl is only a small portion. The photo is actually what I still have left of greens. In the salad I have greens, some broccoli, green pepper, and shredded carrot.</div>
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I also made some healthy, sweet snack for breakfast or anytime. <a href="http://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/2012/07/10/no-bake-mocha-chocolate-chip-cookies/" target="_blank">Mocha Chocolate Bites</a> and <a href="http://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/2012/08/27/chocolate-chip-peanut-butter-balls/" target="_blank">Chocolate Chip PB Bites</a>. Both are no back. I really love the PB ones but I love that the mocha ones have coconut oil. I bought some dates and pistachios to throw in and I think I am going to make up my own version. Since they are no bake, you just need the right consistency to hold them together and taste good :)</div>
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One last new thing I am doing is starting to train for a 5k. And you can laugh, I do a little bit. I did a 5k in November and did run most of it, but I was dying! I signed up for one at the end of March with a friend and we are both trying to actually train up to it and be prepared. Plus, what a better excuse to start getting into shape and working out again. <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml" target="_blank">This</a> is the basic plan I am following. And we have more than 8-9 weeks til the race, so I am taking it slow and tweaking it to my fitness level. (Which I don't think is fresh from the couch.) The 'training program' is 3 days a week, so I am starting every other day. Thursday=Check!, today= Check! However, I would like to eventually be running everyday.</div>
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So thanks for hanging out through that whole post (if you did read it all). I just had a lot to say and share and I want a way to hold myself accountable and share my story! :)</div>
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<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-46442225118035956572013-01-01T16:29:00.000-08:002013-01-01T16:29:11.670-08:00Freezing Cupcake BatterYes. Genius for us. Only 2 people in our household makes it pretty tough to make a full recipe of any kind, especially sweets. And I can only take so much to work before my coworkers think I am trying t fatten them up. :)<br />
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So I did a little research on the internet and found a <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/3-ways-to-freeze-cupcake-batte-126022" target="_blank">good page</a> about freezing cupcake batter. I did two of the ways they suggested with this <a href="http://cookiesandcups.com/really-yummy-chocolate-cupcakes/" target="_blank">yummy chocolate cupcake recipe</a>.<br />
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Mix up your recipe as usual. I actually make 12 of them for last night and froze the rest. But I would also see myself in the near future making yellow cupcakes just for the purpose of freezing. I have become a big fan of freezing lately. I mean who doesn't like a simple thaw and cook meal, snack, etc? I have gotten better about putting stuff in the fridge the night before. That generally helps ;) .<br />
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Anyways, mix your recipe as usual and the first way to freeze them is to
scoop them into your cupcake liners as you would normally bake them. <br />
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Cover and seal with plastic wrap. I used the sticky cling wrap that seals better than regular. Freeze the cupcakes until solid. I just did overnight. <span id="goog_881838343"></span><span id="goog_881838344"></span></div>
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Now they are ready to come out of the pan and into a freezer bag. I popped the ones out of the silicone and let them freeze a little longer individually before placing them in a bag. They can go back into a silicone or a regular tin for baking. I just didn't want my silicone tied up in the freezer.</div>
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You can let them defrost in the fridge (<b>in a cupcake tin!</b>) or just set on the counter for 10-15 minutes while you preheat the oven. I baked the pink one above in the liner 5 minutes from the freezer and it turned out great. Maybe 1-2 minutes added to cooking time. </div>
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-The next way to freeze the batter is to just pour it straight into a freezer bag or freezer safe container. It would be wise to measure out a certain number of cupcakes into a bag, but I had already filled about 20 cupcake liners (paper and silicone) You would just defrost this in the fridge and bake as normal.</div>
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<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-34274351891402964532013-01-01T14:03:00.000-08:002013-01-01T14:03:32.815-08:00Hot Chocolate Frosted Cupcakes with Marshmallow FillingThis recipe isn't mine, at all, but I combined a couple different recipes into this yummy, rich cupcake! I have been on a huge hot chocolate kick lately so this recipe is perfect!<br />
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<a href="http://cookiesandcups.com/really-yummy-chocolate-cupcakes/" target="_blank">Chocolate Cupcakes</a><br />
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" itemprop="ingredients">1 1/2 cups Hershey's Special Dark Cocoa Powder (you can also use regular cocoa powder)
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" itemprop="ingredients">3 cups all purpose flour
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" itemprop="ingredients">3 cups granulated sugar
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" itemprop="ingredients">1 Tbsp baking soda
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" itemprop="ingredients">1 1/2 tsp baking powder
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5" itemprop="ingredients">1 tsp salt
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" itemprop="ingredients">3 eggs
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-7" itemprop="ingredients">1 1/2 cups buttermilk
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-8" itemprop="ingredients">1 1/2 cups warm water
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-9" itemprop="ingredients">3/4 cup vegetable oil
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-10" itemprop="ingredients">2 tsp vanilla extract</li>
</ul>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61QZE6kc5CENSDMTaBQuXg7bNyX8_bUC06cJvxMj_EHsPSyfkbToK3EhWbh1xLq4eRNJZpHZMJDmnXCh7XQUIQ2MVdP6zZ5FfGR2C_9X6ujySGZSXo2tKpaC3MQOB-He1HthEu_2wYrE/s1600/IMAG1981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61QZE6kc5CENSDMTaBQuXg7bNyX8_bUC06cJvxMj_EHsPSyfkbToK3EhWbh1xLq4eRNJZpHZMJDmnXCh7XQUIQ2MVdP6zZ5FfGR2C_9X6ujySGZSXo2tKpaC3MQOB-He1HthEu_2wYrE/s200/IMAG1981.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love these square silicon liners David's mom got me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Mix (or sift) the dry ingredients into a large mixing bowl. It did fit in my kitchen aid, but it was close. Add the eggs one at a time and then the rest of the wet ingredients, slowly! Make sure you scrape down the bowl. Mix for two minutes on medium/low. The batter will be really thin. I was worried I messed up the recipe, but they turned out perfectly. Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake at 350 for 20 minutes. <br />
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<a href="http://lemon-sugar.com/2012/03/marshmallow-filled-chocolate-cupcakes.html/" target="_blank">Marshmallow Filling</a><br />
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5EQbsBrpf7CTgWRQyOgbb5EFy3FibpLIdM5ykG6OKS24LJJMuVeWZGnmMQjFVA42jIVRB3eJdi91UUtsBuSib-1e1LUgtJOyN1csNVK9hxE9AwK6RRqJkHliJ5ui2fTz4vxiXri5R_A/s1600/IMAG1983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVypnizcWP8GeuUwpAc2qtGQx7o5pFpLWQ9AEMKo2JdO6L-6dTn14d_mwGiaJJHdy4nHowWVpzqnVdk0h7BTmWjQnYfZ7jv0_ZZI_P2HuwrSOZo_POpuJ9tbb4G1EPecHpb3HsgHcRsw/s1600/IMAG1991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVypnizcWP8GeuUwpAc2qtGQx7o5pFpLWQ9AEMKo2JdO6L-6dTn14d_mwGiaJJHdy4nHowWVpzqnVdk0h7BTmWjQnYfZ7jv0_ZZI_P2HuwrSOZo_POpuJ9tbb4G1EPecHpb3HsgHcRsw/s200/IMAG1991.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5EQbsBrpf7CTgWRQyOgbb5EFy3FibpLIdM5ykG6OKS24LJJMuVeWZGnmMQjFVA42jIVRB3eJdi91UUtsBuSib-1e1LUgtJOyN1csNVK9hxE9AwK6RRqJkHliJ5ui2fTz4vxiXri5R_A/s1600/IMAG1983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5EQbsBrpf7CTgWRQyOgbb5EFy3FibpLIdM5ykG6OKS24LJJMuVeWZGnmMQjFVA42jIVRB3eJdi91UUtsBuSib-1e1LUgtJOyN1csNVK9hxE9AwK6RRqJkHliJ5ui2fTz4vxiXri5R_A/s200/IMAG1983.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li>1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened</li>
<li>7.5 oz Marshmallow Cream</li>
<li>3 Tablespoons heavy/whipping cream</li>
<li>2 cups powdered/confectioners sugar</li>
<li>2 teaspoons vanilla extract </li>
</ul>
I whipped this up while the cupcakes were baking. Cream the butter and add the marshmallow creme and whipping cream. Slowly add the powdered sugar and beat until combined. Finally add in the vanilla. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Z0h0YE7ZKWqftQRzKvXMpmZndYMHSPas64XxRUA57sjpaP_StD3rWCo5J_OqI6QHfa6KnLaj77_TI9URdW2f7pShSNB0KHhue2exz0P5DL15Aot8mrcAYgGDiOh9dNUwozujLElphcQ/s1600/IMAG1984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Z0h0YE7ZKWqftQRzKvXMpmZndYMHSPas64XxRUA57sjpaP_StD3rWCo5J_OqI6QHfa6KnLaj77_TI9URdW2f7pShSNB0KHhue2exz0P5DL15Aot8mrcAYgGDiOh9dNUwozujLElphcQ/s200/IMAG1984.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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After the cupcakes have cooled (some if you are impatient like me), its time to core them for the filling. I have an actual cupcake corer that my mom got me. You push in the serrated edge and twist a bit until you can pull out the core. You can also use a knife and cut out a small bit. Hubby had fun eating the core pieces. Next pipe in the filling. You can spoon it in, but a piping bag/tip would be much easier and less messy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4RTMeoBNMEXIc6TZAs1lL_DpE15ghe1oZc87m9KC61yXvT7d6itmeg0Pi_Vuki1SBB1wUHQEtt-RDR1bUNEnItilJfRPWuW1SQSMszTvjtlF5AdFnv7dQWkCjaaYgL_uOTiMhKCa9Ds/s1600/IMAG1986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4RTMeoBNMEXIc6TZAs1lL_DpE15ghe1oZc87m9KC61yXvT7d6itmeg0Pi_Vuki1SBB1wUHQEtt-RDR1bUNEnItilJfRPWuW1SQSMszTvjtlF5AdFnv7dQWkCjaaYgL_uOTiMhKCa9Ds/s200/IMAG1986.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://cookiesandcups.com/hot-chocolate-frosting/" target="_blank">Hot Chocolate Frosting</a><br />
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" itemprop="ingredients">1/2 cup butter, room temperature
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" itemprop="ingredients">1/2 cup dry hot chocolate mix (without mini marshmallows)
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" itemprop="ingredients">1/3 cup + 1 Tbsp heavy cream </li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" itemprop="ingredients">4 cups powdered sugar</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDN4fNgfEZRdPlJ-Ziwmp_mbfgyP6tDreRxildqENF65g4M7CgvcNnfoT_2OEcIESLnKL8K-hHDbLjfl6fQcYWaNrySu3PjtrhsvsAWL9lM0EfOaTwETTZGicRa3QnvnccA1gAHvPXcEA/s1600/IMAG1990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDN4fNgfEZRdPlJ-Ziwmp_mbfgyP6tDreRxildqENF65g4M7CgvcNnfoT_2OEcIESLnKL8K-hHDbLjfl6fQcYWaNrySu3PjtrhsvsAWL9lM0EfOaTwETTZGicRa3QnvnccA1gAHvPXcEA/s200/IMAG1990.jpg" width="200" /></a> Start by heating the heavy whipping cream and the hot chocolate mix on the stove over medium-high heat. Whisk it together. It needs to be steaming hot but not boiling. The whole point of heating it is to make a thick hot chocolate and have the sugars dissolve.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnr_rXhCmmsINuofK0bQ3SbCgztZjpC29Aw1tk3LKpRwcDZv-5Lu2B6aN9R5S0Ch0w5TcjjyLG0gU8Tjz2bBqstuhS1PXz-MfquuxIeIVum7A7KkawWHZPyhBB3Xuj_O4ee2tTrONav8/s1600/IMAG1992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnr_rXhCmmsINuofK0bQ3SbCgztZjpC29Aw1tk3LKpRwcDZv-5Lu2B6aN9R5S0Ch0w5TcjjyLG0gU8Tjz2bBqstuhS1PXz-MfquuxIeIVum7A7KkawWHZPyhBB3Xuj_O4ee2tTrONav8/s200/IMAG1992.jpg" width="200" /></a>While it is heating, cream the butter. Add in the chocolate mix and combine. Then, slowly add the powdered sugar and whip until fluffy. Be sure the scrape down the sides before calling it good.<br />
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Now, I did try to use a piping bag and tip to ice these, but I let the frosting cool in the fridge and it was too thick, where as my icing tip was too small. I squeezed out what I could onto the cakes and spread it with a knife so that I didn't mess up the filling in the process.<br />
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Next time I will use a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wilton-Decorating-Tip--1M-Star/dp/B001683S5O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1357077622&sr=8-1&keywords=1m+icing+tip" target="_blank">1M Star Tip</a> or my favorite a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/WILTON-LRG-ROUND-TIP-402-1001/dp/B0000VM458/ref=sr_1_6?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1357077633&sr=1-6&keywords=1m+icing+tip" target="_blank">1M Round Tip</a>. <br />
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Dip the tops in sprinkles or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jet-puffed-Mallow-Vanilla-Flavor-Marshmallows/dp/B007HS7CRW/ref=sr_1_6?s=grocery&ie=UTF8&qid=1357077758&sr=1-6&keywords=mini+marshmallows" target="_blank">Mallow Bits</a> and serve!<br />
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And I actually tried one today (2nd day) and they were still delicious. The cupcakes were super moist because of the filling!<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-63909264778105858992012-11-19T21:34:00.000-08:002012-11-19T21:34:28.684-08:00Cooking Through Pinterest: 11.19.12Sure enough I did cook today too!<br />
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Hubby informed me he needed a side dish and dessert for a work luncheon tomorrow. Of course I would love to whip a couple things up!<br />
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The first one is something I threw together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtwoG4X3kxG2BSFGrE-vbl15TLsywJCqzqf4V5LJZzXwczdvGIM-fCgyEcb7Nm-fc2srzs015U3RMrjwUhXx4rpugO4RnDtwgD2nkrRhTyPMjzJsPRZt4yDQyO7zuCNrnINYbwhjPqkk/s1600/photostrip-1353388793975.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtwoG4X3kxG2BSFGrE-vbl15TLsywJCqzqf4V5LJZzXwczdvGIM-fCgyEcb7Nm-fc2srzs015U3RMrjwUhXx4rpugO4RnDtwgD2nkrRhTyPMjzJsPRZt4yDQyO7zuCNrnINYbwhjPqkk/s320/photostrip-1353388793975.jpg" width="188" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi06poIxqgSpQZi7UvNqeZrCWhBK5hfo5zAvCo_I-i-lQl9oFFNwh3mApzHeoF_9Ouob-510Wg9MrnMgqN1DUyFwcN7VxUAUAjrYifs40igJCV02tNvvTqIg4get5sNtfRUkLwq9w6t-QE/s1600/photostrip-1353388830291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi06poIxqgSpQZi7UvNqeZrCWhBK5hfo5zAvCo_I-i-lQl9oFFNwh3mApzHeoF_9Ouob-510Wg9MrnMgqN1DUyFwcN7VxUAUAjrYifs40igJCV02tNvvTqIg4get5sNtfRUkLwq9w6t-QE/s320/photostrip-1353388830291.jpg" width="188" /> </a></div>
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I wanted to do Mexican rollups. I combined 8oz cream cheese and about 3/4 cup sour cream (can be adjusted to taste). Chop fresh cilantro, pickled jalepenos and fresh tomatoes. Add to mixture. Add an overflowing TBSP of taco seasoning. I used a can of refried beans and about 2 cups of shredded cheese.</div>
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Combine all the ingredients together and adjust the taste to your liking. Spread onto tortillas and cut. I used a bread knife and cut back and forth so I didn't squash the rolls. I think this would be perfect with black beans or shredded chicken to make it not so soft. Feel free to tweak these rollups and make them your own!</div>
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Secondly I made <a href="http://www.crunchyrock.com/2011/01/sugar-cookie-bars.html" target="_blank">Sugar Cookie Bars</a>. I have had these pinned for awhile and finally tried them. I used an 11x17 jelly roll pan to make them and it was a great size. Don't overcook them! You want them to stay soft. I want to try these again with the cream cheese sugar cookie recipe I found ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzC5ymmgiFQ0V7MGf37eaSLoo6SGa_WJMpdPftbQwgvfA5VRP0zfpH5fywS8HmkrXrSwG21Q8BfCWXbWUd78m5YPUEPUf0uFHj3BF06d8qCEOtE_zOET8_wl-wsK1JdYqJNEfW76vU9U/s1600/IMAG1745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzC5ymmgiFQ0V7MGf37eaSLoo6SGa_WJMpdPftbQwgvfA5VRP0zfpH5fywS8HmkrXrSwG21Q8BfCWXbWUd78m5YPUEPUf0uFHj3BF06d8qCEOtE_zOET8_wl-wsK1JdYqJNEfW76vU9U/s200/IMAG1745.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7kCbHecCQbY6VDdmcXYRQ76RdW5ytgma7yGstjizf-mQ0zrFUInmL5o9O6i5kmzFRFmhzzrGj4BC-lZak-twbluwJvR7xz1NA3cfo8WPBQcrXxyRuqc4cOXKHY9r9krgt6wtb1VxNJs/s1600/IMAG1746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7kCbHecCQbY6VDdmcXYRQ76RdW5ytgma7yGstjizf-mQ0zrFUInmL5o9O6i5kmzFRFmhzzrGj4BC-lZak-twbluwJvR7xz1NA3cfo8WPBQcrXxyRuqc4cOXKHY9r9krgt6wtb1VxNJs/s200/IMAG1746.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
All boxed up and ready to go to work with my hubby. Don't those look delicious? (I couldn't resist the sprinkles, even if they are for Marines)<br />
<a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/2009/07/02/baked-ziti/#" target="_blank">Baked Ziti:</a> Lastly, we reheated an extra 8x8 pan of this Baked Ziti from last week and it was better reheated than the first time! I added about 1/2 cup of pasta sauce on top to keep it moist but I don't even think I needed too. The inside was even cheesier than the first time. Next time I make this I will be freezing a pan for a second meal! :)Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-3425413429481239192012-11-18T12:05:00.003-08:002012-11-18T18:57:34.286-08:00Cooking Through Pinterest: 11.18.12So I have given up on numbering the days. I have made a few recipes over the weekend.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8rns7nztBSLHcLSKjjZITspWCGu86OsilYg1aSgfJMjmotOKJSwnczBOjpFmHu2A7_EBGvkV75cMUUBlK1VtFe8ovFb1TzZl4GbANH1g2-yWoeXmzR-ev2QUq_FFsl483n52GqfolmI/s1600/IMAG1732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8rns7nztBSLHcLSKjjZITspWCGu86OsilYg1aSgfJMjmotOKJSwnczBOjpFmHu2A7_EBGvkV75cMUUBlK1VtFe8ovFb1TzZl4GbANH1g2-yWoeXmzR-ev2QUq_FFsl483n52GqfolmI/s200/IMAG1732.jpg" width="112" /></a><br />
<a href="http://sharingmydreamsmarinewife.blogspot.com/2012/11/homemade-gift-15-vanilla-extract.html" target="_blank">Homemade Vanilla Extract</a>: This recipe is actually from a friend's blog. She is talented and you should check her blog out! <br />
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I ordered my Vanilla Beans from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Premium-Madagascar-Vanilla-Beans-beans/dp/B008J418DW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1353268020&sr=8-3&keywords=olivenation+vanilla+beans" target="_blank">the one and only Amazon</a>. I got two packs of 7 beans. I used a small bottle of Smirnoff and the little bit that was left of this absolut. I just poured the 2 1/4 cups of vodka into this Absolut bottle and used 7 beans. This photo is after about 3 days. I am storing mine in a dark closet.<br />
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<a href="http://www.justgetoffyourbuttandbake.com/?p=754" target="_blank">Krispy Kreme Glaze</a>: Yesterday morning I was craving donuts. I didn't make the actual donut recipe from this page, I just made the glaze. I reluctantly made the standby: refrigerated bisuit dough fried in oil. Even just typing that sounds horrible. They aren't the best, but hot and in the glaze, they were good.<br />
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<a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/2010/03/05/baked-southwestern-egg-rolls/" target="_blank">Baked Southwestern Egg Rolls</a>: I made these for a Murder Mystery party last night. They were gone before the end of the night, so I guess everyone liked them. I did have issues with the recipe though. I made it the way she says, with cilantro instead of spinach. Then I split it in half and did half veggie with no dairy, and the other half with cheese, a little sour cream and shredded chicken. The 'veggie' version was too moist and the rolls got soggy. The cooked, but fell apart. The chicken/cheese mixture browned and crisped perfectly. So just be careful to keep the regular mixture more on the dry side.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWC8VEKN7IHrsfNEcrsvNQyu5UiuWc2dufZl4mVI0AKiG0LC5ebdzcn4FWXhkMk2jyI_qdBrsEuEo0uJsnlDZk1vRJwDt67dD39DAeEVcB7cW_rpP4QDvk-iwCkhujgKjj6ADJHgPbz4/s1600/57210_297318747052114_832642206_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWC8VEKN7IHrsfNEcrsvNQyu5UiuWc2dufZl4mVI0AKiG0LC5ebdzcn4FWXhkMk2jyI_qdBrsEuEo0uJsnlDZk1vRJwDt67dD39DAeEVcB7cW_rpP4QDvk-iwCkhujgKjj6ADJHgPbz4/s200/57210_297318747052114_832642206_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Update: <a href="http://pinchmysalt.com/how-to-make-the-best-buttermilk-biscuits-from-scratch/#" target="_blank">Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits</a>: Hubby wanted breakfast food for dinner and I volunteered to find a recipe and make some biscuits. Oh these were so good. Scroll down and use the 'fluffy buttermilk biscuit' recipe. I used all all-purpose flour. With butter and honey..OH YES! <br />
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<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-40280541341600791512012-11-15T19:00:00.002-08:002012-11-15T19:29:16.863-08:00Cooking Through Pinterest: Day 4So technically this is day 5, but I am going by the days that I actually do conquer some recipes! Today was a two recipe day for me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdzIiGKYAnZMogZKXncnopY6FXRSYqMhnLIPI0XgvDwkq07GDSdrAMXUHO5tXN2EuugTTt-aBopkN93eg6ghiBejChdsG59OswAoguEZvsWobSIweLULiPUMF8yX8_uZPJtdt4SEg8E8/s1600/photostrip-2012-11-15-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdzIiGKYAnZMogZKXncnopY6FXRSYqMhnLIPI0XgvDwkq07GDSdrAMXUHO5tXN2EuugTTt-aBopkN93eg6ghiBejChdsG59OswAoguEZvsWobSIweLULiPUMF8yX8_uZPJtdt4SEg8E8/s1600/photostrip-2012-11-15-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdzIiGKYAnZMogZKXncnopY6FXRSYqMhnLIPI0XgvDwkq07GDSdrAMXUHO5tXN2EuugTTt-aBopkN93eg6ghiBejChdsG59OswAoguEZvsWobSIweLULiPUMF8yX8_uZPJtdt4SEg8E8/s200/photostrip-2012-11-15-3.jpg" width="117" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQxiID4-STQzDmBFUchiMGELmQk-26XlbWmDB6xJFgL_rgQs72uOy3DVNNwf6YukCZyuoyYYqjbrSRHTXFUVnuUckUtCySacAjCWvmotZZOR1EOFc1iptR2lgQeygaGcDwdzMfYRsYq0/s1600/photostrip-2012-11-15-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQxiID4-STQzDmBFUchiMGELmQk-26XlbWmDB6xJFgL_rgQs72uOy3DVNNwf6YukCZyuoyYYqjbrSRHTXFUVnuUckUtCySacAjCWvmotZZOR1EOFc1iptR2lgQeygaGcDwdzMfYRsYq0/s200/photostrip-2012-11-15-2.jpg" width="117" /></a></div>
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The first was a delicious <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/no-bake-peanut-butter-pretzel-chocolate-chip-granola-bars/comment-page-2/#comments" target="_blank">No-Bake Pretzel PB Granola Bar</a> and they were so good. I did some of my own substitutions though. I used coconut oil for butter, old-fashioned oats instead of quick, and honey bunches oats instead of rice Krispies.<br />
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Next, I have actually made this recipe before and it was really good. However, this time I tweaked it a bit and it is equally as good. <a href="http://www.mamalovesfood.com/2009/06/baked-potato-soup-slow-cooker-style.html" target="_blank">Baked Potato Soup</a>. The first time I made it correctly with bacon and all.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYWxTQ_7CMypOBQMKZe4UZkpXIT-ePrXEFm2mAM7s_R0HRTadSfqkXx1t1ROZh6kDEb0edgjNvWM_Y0ZSBBhW9rs3tNSsiccwmNKiAfF6iD0qkASOLVX0a3PZjS835cTKzvAmOgYQlhk/s1600/photostrip-1353034326108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYWxTQ_7CMypOBQMKZe4UZkpXIT-ePrXEFm2mAM7s_R0HRTadSfqkXx1t1ROZh6kDEb0edgjNvWM_Y0ZSBBhW9rs3tNSsiccwmNKiAfF6iD0qkASOLVX0a3PZjS835cTKzvAmOgYQlhk/s320/photostrip-1353034326108.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
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This time I used about 4lbs of potatoes (peeled) and about a pound of cauliflower I had one hand. I used a blender to puree it and added the cream cheese, along with sour cream and a small amount of velvetta. I didn't have bacon or green onions today, but it was still a good creamy soup! And I think kids would like it if they like mashed potatoes. The cauliflower is easy to sneak it!<br />
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The full recipe makes a large pot of soup. I plan on freezing my extra soup and will have it with good ole baked potato way when we reheat it! <br />
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Well until tomorrow, have a wonderful Friday everyone!<br />
<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-85559557543826340592012-11-13T21:10:00.000-08:002012-11-13T21:39:48.887-08:00Cooking Through Pinterest: Day 3Okay folks, I am back! And I am proud to say I made 5 new recipes today from my Pinterest boards! <br />
I was pleasantly happy with all of the recipes today!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi65eNk52GXEDtg6uQhXB0QWRaC4q8ys-g4k423crjKCX1Bn-fAPKGAsnLagSIVvsxA0Jt4xYpgyTuTA9xNSNrQ1RCe77RxAm7GKJNEIczrNXOwC5yuFisCoG2X-mFAXwCdyP8cOms53U4/s1600/P1080891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi65eNk52GXEDtg6uQhXB0QWRaC4q8ys-g4k423crjKCX1Bn-fAPKGAsnLagSIVvsxA0Jt4xYpgyTuTA9xNSNrQ1RCe77RxAm7GKJNEIczrNXOwC5yuFisCoG2X-mFAXwCdyP8cOms53U4/s200/P1080891.JPG" width="200" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi65eNk52GXEDtg6uQhXB0QWRaC4q8ys-g4k423crjKCX1Bn-fAPKGAsnLagSIVvsxA0Jt4xYpgyTuTA9xNSNrQ1RCe77RxAm7GKJNEIczrNXOwC5yuFisCoG2X-mFAXwCdyP8cOms53U4/s1600/P1080891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a>First I want to share a photo of last nights meal, <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Bandito-Chili-Dogs#" target="_blank">Bandito Chili Dogs. </a> They were pretty good. Kind of a chili frito pie, with hot dog. Next time I want to slow cook it with homemade chili.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIG2fWKXfoO-i2FWu3mQPfKNjG9SnXnFXyIMNq8TZNKeU-9H33HnmC7xbva42u7jovcFl7ikjx4oqmlnkS7xHJuUQsM-Ns2VN3Usafb7kr8l40C7JBpwReCZAB7YtvRCSdgAN8PfCOn1c/s1600/135295_295316880585634_1160503621_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIG2fWKXfoO-i2FWu3mQPfKNjG9SnXnFXyIMNq8TZNKeU-9H33HnmC7xbva42u7jovcFl7ikjx4oqmlnkS7xHJuUQsM-Ns2VN3Usafb7kr8l40C7JBpwReCZAB7YtvRCSdgAN8PfCOn1c/s200/135295_295316880585634_1160503621_o.jpg" width="112" /></a></div>
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My after-work snack: <a href="http://evel8yn.blogspot.com/2012/04/pineapple-spinach-smoothie.html" target="_blank">Pineapple Spinach Smoothie</a>. <b>Now, before I lose you, HEAR ME OUT! Give this one try. If you are a neighbor of mine, I would be happy to make you one to try!</b> David and I make smoothie at home all the time and I get halfway through and don't want anymore. They just aren't THAT good. But this smoothie... the pineapple juice, frozen pineapple and frozen banana make for a thick smoothie and covers the spinach taste!!! I've had a few <i>Jamba Juice</i> smoothies and that's what this tastes like!<br />
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Next up, I made <b>two</b> batches of cookie dough so I could freeze them in ready-to-bake form! I usually freeze my dough a bit before baking anyways, so I don't know why I hadn't done this before. Not one, but 2 flavors. <a href="http://www.thatskinnychickcanbake.com/2012/10/red-velvet-white-chocolate-chunk.html" target="_blank">Red Velvet White Chocolate Chunk</a> & <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/vanilla-pudding-chocolate-chip-cookies/" target="_blank">Vanilla Pudding Choc. Chip</a> Cookies<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggqQj0VzgJht9mMU4_7NB4xb9KjuXh1IBqfKITYbEE84wCpb0bQ6eYf2_WJPjmbIh1zIgKLZ-fkIvTqtud3uDBuKOAbc3Q49b0kksgpDE_ILxnuvZ3WRxK2fmJnbewBeCtf61y32Mzl4/s1600/P1080898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggqQj0VzgJht9mMU4_7NB4xb9KjuXh1IBqfKITYbEE84wCpb0bQ6eYf2_WJPjmbIh1zIgKLZ-fkIvTqtud3uDBuKOAbc3Q49b0kksgpDE_ILxnuvZ3WRxK2fmJnbewBeCtf61y32Mzl4/s200/P1080898.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnUYbeEs2E6LLP5REIGMIos10m-Fz8Z_zFGD-TB_rcRAf3-kZl6VRS84RjWPYgu2JVI7fZ9n4ZH2itXW4Q0Qebino-SxhxKK1DRnxo3KYquXdGFU_efrhZvG1DC0v4zbOl-GB4YkuPUE/s1600/P1080918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnUYbeEs2E6LLP5REIGMIos10m-Fz8Z_zFGD-TB_rcRAf3-kZl6VRS84RjWPYgu2JVI7fZ9n4ZH2itXW4Q0Qebino-SxhxKK1DRnxo3KYquXdGFU_efrhZvG1DC0v4zbOl-GB4YkuPUE/s200/P1080918.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9rHN6ZCKLS3iCFojowmEipYhlCoYAghEueMXFlfO3z3PDh1LkyR2KTJ_DPk-jcTbq6i7IZUWnLaVwTN0ACaHC6Ve_L-Z4G_AjiijNl9OFmZjxyKFhfNaX5P8P-dtrEWvkTuqR5L8ExA/s1600/P1080902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9rHN6ZCKLS3iCFojowmEipYhlCoYAghEueMXFlfO3z3PDh1LkyR2KTJ_DPk-jcTbq6i7IZUWnLaVwTN0ACaHC6Ve_L-Z4G_AjiijNl9OFmZjxyKFhfNaX5P8P-dtrEWvkTuqR5L8ExA/s200/P1080902.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaLjrtlIgb9rtQWzQwmS7Qt3mxeotEmIQJwzLo91EGGaDfduN7OiLxVzQl0pzrfxWt0hjxA4p28LNPaNlpiIZWjgECeODqQTYHX4HYq4GF5EDJTKXcmAxfAwYY0MB4XDGXYclHZUgGO4/s1600/P1080921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaLjrtlIgb9rtQWzQwmS7Qt3mxeotEmIQJwzLo91EGGaDfduN7OiLxVzQl0pzrfxWt0hjxA4p28LNPaNlpiIZWjgECeODqQTYHX4HYq4GF5EDJTKXcmAxfAwYY0MB4XDGXYclHZUgGO4/s200/P1080921.JPG" width="200" /> </a></div>
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Mix as usual, scoop the whole batch onto greased pans. Freeze on the pans alone. When almost solid (1-2 hours) then they can be placed into a freezer bag. I kept them from touching and will keep them on a pan so they can freeze <b>solid</b> overnight then I will lose the pan. They can 'thaw' while the oven is preheating then should be good to bake.</div>
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Next, we had friends over for dinner and I made <a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/2009/07/02/baked-ziti/" target="_blank">Baked Ziti</a> & <a href="http://tastykitchen.com/recipes/breads/basil-butter-garlic-bread/" target="_blank">Basil Butter Garlic Bread</a>. The Baked Ziti has more steps than I realized, but now that I know I can plan accordingly for next time I make it. It is pretty good. A mix between lasagna and pasta bake. The bread looked a little sketchy, because it was <b>green</b> from the basil I ran through the Magic Bullet, but it tasted very good. I used less garlic than they called for, and used garlic powder. I also used shredded parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese on top.</div>
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So that's my wrap up for today. I don't expect 5 recipes tomorrow, but hopefully I can squeeze in one! Have a great night!</div>
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<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-83611882795263223732012-11-12T16:47:00.002-08:002012-11-12T16:47:19.879-08:00'Give Thanks' Pinterest Inspired MantelTwo posts in one day! I am on a roll. I have been pouting for awhile about not having a mantel. I keep finding all these cool ideas from Pinterest of how to decorate for the holidays or anytime!<br />
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Well I decided to make my own 'mantel'. We have a small wall opposite of our dining room and between our living room and entry way. I have a large photo over a bookshelf on that wall since we first moved in and never thought of moving it. Well after looking at the bookshelf and the perfect placement of the wall, I decided I could make the top of it my makeshift mantel!<br />
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Well the timing couldn't be better, so I am starting with a Thanksgiving/Fall theme! <a href="http://adiamondinthestuff.blogspot.com/2012/01/year-of-mantels.html" target="_blank">A Diamond in the Stuff</a> has a whole post of themed mantel decorations. I was inspired by her Thanksgiving one and have wanted to make a word pennant for awhile!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnyR3A-4re_LUHq3wUXptYumeFlK-aoT-Wm3_GaPa8-Hj-fbPa2m5UzxFUjYU6UF2sUCY5Jkyto6F3MMd-iQOONa26GWCBzxaz6CgAvZs7oqM5-TEwKv_wzrxlofJPdEDKGOd8oqHF18/s1600/photostrip-2012-11-12-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnyR3A-4re_LUHq3wUXptYumeFlK-aoT-Wm3_GaPa8-Hj-fbPa2m5UzxFUjYU6UF2sUCY5Jkyto6F3MMd-iQOONa26GWCBzxaz6CgAvZs7oqM5-TEwKv_wzrxlofJPdEDKGOd8oqHF18/s320/photostrip-2012-11-12-1.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
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I had some issues originally with this. I mocked up my own pennants with letters through a Word document, however my printer wasn't liking my thick paper. So I ended up making them from templates and I liked these smaller sized ones (3in x 4in)<br />
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The cardstock I used was sticker paper, so I just stuck them on the green backing paper.<br />
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I printed letters on regular printer paper and used a pencil to trace them onto the cardstock. I filled in the imprint made from the pencil with perm. marker to write the letters.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8RZjLqfjFVnRA04j32Ylu-WJ9TeqiKFTP-IcpumSuMZ3pgq3zX8YlF_QsmoDZ-oXVEc1ZJSuXBIRhgXTMj1aZb-NlrK05nVZ92fWy6-Io28eTeXEw6_c6wdslM0wHGlMGZVjfxiPP2ZM/s1600/photostrip-2012-11-12-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8RZjLqfjFVnRA04j32Ylu-WJ9TeqiKFTP-IcpumSuMZ3pgq3zX8YlF_QsmoDZ-oXVEc1ZJSuXBIRhgXTMj1aZb-NlrK05nVZ92fWy6-Io28eTeXEw6_c6wdslM0wHGlMGZVjfxiPP2ZM/s320/photostrip-2012-11-12-2.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
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I used brown yarn to attach the letters together.<br />
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Use hot glue to attach the pennants onto the yarn.<br />
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I simply taped the yarn to the back on the frame (where it wouldn't be seen) and that is how I hung the pennants to the empty frame. I had been saving this frame for something and I like how it works here. It is rustic and faux-wood (sadly not real wood).<br />
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<b>I cannot wait to dress up my mantel for the next holiday! Hope you enjoy <i>A Diamond in the Stuff</i> and get some inspiration to decorate your own wall or mantel!</b></div>
Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-71357621566392019582012-11-12T13:48:00.001-08:002012-11-12T13:58:01.017-08:00Cooking My Way Through Pinterest: Days 1 & 2So I recently posted to my FB page how I had pinned so many good things and I just wanted to make them all. Well without even realizing it I have been doing so. I decided to keep track of it and let you know if the recipe is worth trying!<br />
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A lot of these recipes have come from <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/" target="_blank">Two Peas & Their Pod</a>. I recently pinned something from them and decided to explore the whole site. Needless to say, I came out with a LOT of recipes she either makes or links to on her site! <br />
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<a href="http://www.fifteenspatulas.com/hot-buttered-fluffy-pretzels/" target="_blank">Fluffy Pretzels with Cinnamon Sugar</a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXR4J_pvnLxoPCWshhNnm8P2qHMHYrJ7Uar9_7r0ol75sOSNYq5JRJsugQzrTcLep-do4khOJjJsCvTf8nf-JlXFCVvV1Gd6V5r7pc4mlTacbyW25ZpiBk9NfEPAZunHRHcedPY9kL0P0/s1600/IMAG1666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXR4J_pvnLxoPCWshhNnm8P2qHMHYrJ7Uar9_7r0ol75sOSNYq5JRJsugQzrTcLep-do4khOJjJsCvTf8nf-JlXFCVvV1Gd6V5r7pc4mlTacbyW25ZpiBk9NfEPAZunHRHcedPY9kL0P0/s200/IMAG1666.jpg" width="200" /></a>I actually made 90% of this on Saturday night to take to a friends. Long story short I got sick and put the baking on hold. The bites are alright, but I had enough dough to actually shape one more pretzel. I buttered it out of the oven and rolled it in cinnamon sugar. Mmm! And if you think pretzels sound too challenging to make on your own, you are <b>wrong</b>! I have used this recipe and <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/homemade-soft-pretzel-bites/comment-page-2/#comments" target="_blank">another</a> and both are easy and yummy! (Especially with cheese sauce!<br />
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<a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/strawberry-nutella-milkshake/#" target="_blank">Strawberry Nutella Milkshake</a><br />
This milkshake is pretty good! I wanted a quick treat after dinner last night. I would use less Nutella than she calls for. Maybe just a spoonful. But it was good!<br />
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<a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/chocolate-chip-muffins/" target="_blank">Chocolate Chip Muffins</a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Z4IxnU9VeMlEf2ICtHyhijX2AjircR7BdupfaVpW7fbmsBhUYdHGZ6LeHeIJLVuNpZjxaCXJfwid-iR2au4K3g2ckzWfgOaAqD6QexLU5AQAGwsKZQICARmlkube2Rh1rUtAvbfcID8/s1600/IMAG1671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Z4IxnU9VeMlEf2ICtHyhijX2AjircR7BdupfaVpW7fbmsBhUYdHGZ6LeHeIJLVuNpZjxaCXJfwid-iR2au4K3g2ckzWfgOaAqD6QexLU5AQAGwsKZQICARmlkube2Rh1rUtAvbfcID8/s200/IMAG1671.jpg" width="200" /></a>Woke up before Hubby this morning and wanted to make breakfast. Found this recipe for C.C. muffins yesterday and decided after reading the good reviews to put it to the test. It was really easy to make. The longest part for me was melting the butter (we have no microwave, yes honestly!) They could definitely make more than 12 though. Probably 16 muffins if you only filled them 3/4 full! I would <b>definitely </b>recommend these. I froze our leftovers for another morning.<br />
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<a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Bandito-Chili-Dogs" target="_blank">Bandito Chili Dogs</a><br />
I am about to put this in the Crock Pot for dinner tonight, but this is actually a recipe my mom has been making for years! I love hot dogs in any form, especially chili dogs! How can you go wrong with chili, green chilies, onions, and fritos on your dog?! I am making a double batch tonight with some hot chili/chilies and am going to freeze half for another quick meal!<br />
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*Yesterday for dinner I also made homemade Tomato Soup from stewed tomatoes a friend and I canned in September. The recipe is from no other than <a href="http://picky-palate.com/" target="_blank">Picky-Palate</a>, but the recipe is only found in her <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Picky-Palate-Cookbook-Jenny-Flake/dp/111809512X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1352757093&sr=8-1&keywords=picky+palate+cookbook" target="_blank">cookbook</a>, which I HIGHLY recommend!<br />
<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-16984733850105442702012-11-08T13:47:00.002-08:002012-11-08T13:48:55.713-08:00Cleaning ScheduleSome friends and I have been talking lately about cleaning schedules and a month or so ago I finally made up one that fits for my family and our house.<br />
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It was really easy to make. I used PhotoShop, but you could also to it on Microsoft Word. I found lots of lists online of things that need to be cleaned when and compiled it into my own. I have Weekly and Monthly on my list. I made a light chevron background on it for it to be 'pretty' but it is just words over the background printed on <b>regular printer paper</b>.<br />
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I placed it in a cute frame and voila! Ready to be checked off!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMCWKCrN1CStN6ePw6wUGMU3NUacSlztO42KS-eXGo2NoLJBRradxl1CoHk9kE1Q_Jb_lJ846TCRc98ttRRFB2gC_ZeA7HffvDX6SkuEfCopQ8l5AyDdxooAmtel1B4xdYzwFqR3_Jus/s1600/cleaning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMCWKCrN1CStN6ePw6wUGMU3NUacSlztO42KS-eXGo2NoLJBRradxl1CoHk9kE1Q_Jb_lJ846TCRc98ttRRFB2gC_ZeA7HffvDX6SkuEfCopQ8l5AyDdxooAmtel1B4xdYzwFqR3_Jus/s320/cleaning.jpg" width="247" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ngYtGxcjhuQwerlBFysI_841QmOKrxXdMxOpaLRWaIipfrDNyFqkUrZi85Ydcs8MXklnAz6mt2nOlhilOZgloaEdLJ5BGqBg490ZbfTUXKcZxZ3uNMMZrzafKARzm6d-Lup8Pmdi0B8/s1600/IMAG1621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ngYtGxcjhuQwerlBFysI_841QmOKrxXdMxOpaLRWaIipfrDNyFqkUrZi85Ydcs8MXklnAz6mt2nOlhilOZgloaEdLJ5BGqBg490ZbfTUXKcZxZ3uNMMZrzafKARzm6d-Lup8Pmdi0B8/s320/IMAG1621.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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I had no color ink, which is why I printed in black and white ;)<br />
<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-15860247465516890772012-11-08T09:57:00.000-08:002012-11-08T09:57:05.018-08:00Front Porch Christmas TreeI have seen variations of this all over Pinterest, most without tutorials. I decided to take a stab at it. Surprisingly really easy. This only cost me about<b> $10</b>. I got the cage for free from a neighbor and already had the fishing line. You could also use lights you may already have. I didn't want to dig mine out so I bought a couple shorts strands. It also only took me about <b>10-15 minutes</b> to make!<br />
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You Will Need:<br />
*Large (~3ft) Tomato Cage<br />
*2- 18ft Green garland<br />
*2-50 count lights<br />
*Clear fishing line<br />
*Scissors<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47gO2wTVd5YnapeCGY0waEkfFPeaCCJ5jXasXFOvaxKCBPOLcnRXHmtC6w-06vrrSf35hiVlxCQGaVM_nvqFfkJN98mQt4pn3gthoZosZE1fyUBLG1yBlwUUZi24GxmCT96Ivr8ovB-U/s1600/IMAG1609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47gO2wTVd5YnapeCGY0waEkfFPeaCCJ5jXasXFOvaxKCBPOLcnRXHmtC6w-06vrrSf35hiVlxCQGaVM_nvqFfkJN98mQt4pn3gthoZosZE1fyUBLG1yBlwUUZi24GxmCT96Ivr8ovB-U/s320/IMAG1609.jpg" width="320" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMozlCOD6SJvPshh1n9Su9Bz0imRdFr2Vudnq6Ip3lNdYzt2ToVv93ign67dojKdm9xBgu8wAo7tTr3qPXlQdyOWZc0U7Y7HkON9kMyzkfoHELOu9Fus5TMnERiw002l96BNCgTH0vEzo/s1600/IMAG1608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMozlCOD6SJvPshh1n9Su9Bz0imRdFr2Vudnq6Ip3lNdYzt2ToVv93ign67dojKdm9xBgu8wAo7tTr3qPXlQdyOWZc0U7Y7HkON9kMyzkfoHELOu9Fus5TMnERiw002l96BNCgTH0vEzo/s320/IMAG1608.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Here are your supplies. I actually only used 2 of the strands of lights, not 3. And you can substitute something else for the fishing line, like green thread. You just don't want to notice it.</div>
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DO NOT USE THREAD FOR THIS...Use a stronger tie (zip-tie if you have one) to close up the top of the tomato cage.</div>
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Start at the top with the garland and begin wrapping around the cage. When you run out of the first strand of garland, tie the other to the end with your line. Space the garland out and wrap the whole cage first then actually attach them. Attach at the top and on all the main 'rings' with fishing line tot he garland stays put. </div>
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Go back through and cut all the fishing line. </div>
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Start at the bottom with the plug end of the lights and wrap around the whole tree. Where the second strand of lights connect, hide the tags and plug in with the garland. </div>
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My lights came bound with twist ties so I used a couple of these to attach the lights at the bottom and top of the tree. </div>
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Love this! Makes me so excited to decorate for real! I am either going to place the tree on/in a planter on the front porch or making an impromtu 'tree skirt' so you don't see the bottom of the cage. I also want to hang a couple ornaments of candy canes on it too!</div>
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Enjoy! </div>
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<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-89109399432576140642012-10-22T16:34:00.002-07:002012-10-22T16:34:48.733-07:00DIY Halloween Costume!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So this Halloween I dropped the ball a little bit and put off deciding on Halloween costumes. Usually I like to come up with a couple costume, but I know hubby just does it to make me happy so I decided on my own this year... [Violet] Incredible! Yes, the Disney Character! And I didn't want to search for a shirt or buy a whole costume anywhere.</div>
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You will need:</div>
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-Red t-shirt (I prefer fitted)</div>
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-printed logo</div>
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-White, yellow, orange, and black Acrylic or fabric paint</div>
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-Paint brushes</div>
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-Sewing pins</div>
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-Sewing Tracing wheel</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtp9_DRXFZcl5M8FJ2iFexd-W60Xsf_4cRtz8mlLyo5PixrK8yio98z4WIS2SWBs-WkaH28siPXYCeeJI2NwYUHWJ7VqWunxA7HSP1U5PdLhmJfFmFBHx4Wmlwe7mB_VcpdyNq_rhiLk/s1600/IMAG1407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtp9_DRXFZcl5M8FJ2iFexd-W60Xsf_4cRtz8mlLyo5PixrK8yio98z4WIS2SWBs-WkaH28siPXYCeeJI2NwYUHWJ7VqWunxA7HSP1U5PdLhmJfFmFBHx4Wmlwe7mB_VcpdyNq_rhiLk/s320/IMAG1407.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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I wouldn't recommend the brushes above. I didn't want to spend more on brushes just for this and I got what I paid for :(</div>
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First, I found a logo from Google Images and printed it in grayscale. No need to waste ink. Cut around the logo and pin it on your shirt. Make sure it is centered.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eX-myYbr8RpGiqXn2iuJMu43Q5Fiyyphr8k0wfj8-_87sp7NuRXF7sc_HNCPdlrTEtWX5MpZoIT4WCKRhGhudSjc0Djzn7Yc83cxZKgbebFRdOVOZHK6eUEjKYB78UqgBphseVYpOwE/s1600/IMAG1406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_eX-myYbr8RpGiqXn2iuJMu43Q5Fiyyphr8k0wfj8-_87sp7NuRXF7sc_HNCPdlrTEtWX5MpZoIT4WCKRhGhudSjc0Djzn7Yc83cxZKgbebFRdOVOZHK6eUEjKYB78UqgBphseVYpOwE/s320/IMAG1406.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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(Sorry for the blurry photo) Use the tracing wheel to mark the edge of the logo and where the different color sections start. Press hard enough to see the marks on the shirt.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYd1aRUqZURTEclGvCRSmjxOXH_FmsPkbDk6lLleOnw5Q867WmSvcfbwuxllYGrAl6-w2E0P1QMiXi5Utkyl2alAAyXb4JO3yuM34u2vJW-wP1LCjNVCdK2Gq34yRjv8eYVmyXspOi38/s1600/IMAG1408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYd1aRUqZURTEclGvCRSmjxOXH_FmsPkbDk6lLleOnw5Q867WmSvcfbwuxllYGrAl6-w2E0P1QMiXi5Utkyl2alAAyXb4JO3yuM34u2vJW-wP1LCjNVCdK2Gq34yRjv8eYVmyXspOi38/s320/IMAG1408.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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Look closely and you can see the markings on the shirt. </div>
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Start painting! I used a small brush the stay within the lines of the logo. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPFwrfL_J2d6IMtIzikjrtRcTcQRCK4D-zh_3kj7jfc6-0BpS82i7CuzHWH9_6xi91BMWn74AgGM7RWnyodWT9ow1qNA1eeVjcXVNY9zMbWFkoO3iTN9mCqrglXeB44XfPgCC_bu4vrw/s1600/IMAG1412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPFwrfL_J2d6IMtIzikjrtRcTcQRCK4D-zh_3kj7jfc6-0BpS82i7CuzHWH9_6xi91BMWn74AgGM7RWnyodWT9ow1qNA1eeVjcXVNY9zMbWFkoO3iTN9mCqrglXeB44XfPgCC_bu4vrw/s200/IMAG1412.jpg" width="200" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4G1vccnnnMnst8du8HFrwM_LGwe1MNyTmqiehOjkCulL-iBF3Teoqw9dMqA_cql3w8QKSrlG70Vdxbo__rRuyUleAiA1ocNYySUv9gNuG8WPXbRU_JJObcDhD7Cp7TE_Tfclp2fX5VA/s1600/IMAG1413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4G1vccnnnMnst8du8HFrwM_LGwe1MNyTmqiehOjkCulL-iBF3Teoqw9dMqA_cql3w8QKSrlG70Vdxbo__rRuyUleAiA1ocNYySUv9gNuG8WPXbRU_JJObcDhD7Cp7TE_Tfclp2fX5VA/s200/IMAG1413.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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The paint brushes left a splotchy cover. I went over it with a foam brush for much better coverage.</div>
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I used a small foam brush for touch-ups.</div>
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Voila! I think it is pretty good! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXUo2gEckLib0DwL5iXOQU99DtfZIO-OIkJlkes6DO5LXEHLfH9H3Drh4WRmikoPT0paonBPt8pxgKZ8TQUpKAUoBcdhUz7jvk2xBbYY5MclACYWE9IB24tSfD9tppz_WsrR-2uMG9GQc/s1600/IMAG1428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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The whole costume includes red tights, black shorts, the shirt and black face make-up for the mask.</div>
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Hope you get inspired by this just in time for Halloween!</div>
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<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-54351678976808181822012-10-04T18:04:00.003-07:002012-10-04T18:04:38.397-07:00Quick Pumpkin Chocolate Chip BarsSo I found this <a href="http://cookiesandcups.com/2-ingredient-pumpkin-brownies/" target="_blank">recipe</a> a couple days ago and it sounds pretty good. I like most pumpkin things and since it is officially October, I am taking advantage of making them without people thinking I am a freak.<br />
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Anyways, I did some math with the measurements in her recipe. (The average cups in the oz of brownie mix and the average cups in the oz of pumpkin) I found out the it is 1 parts pumpkin to 1 1/3 parts brownie mix.<br />
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So in my cupboard I happen to have a baggie of partial cake mix and a partial can of pumpkin in my fridge. I am that person! So I whipped together some pumpkin chocolate chip bars today!<br />
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(I apologize for the mixed types of photos. I took the first with my phone, then my sister called and I used my computer for the rest)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhVhiz6dnd6QSmyuNswSLmyM0Q3sD6vWYIrrCTL9Qf-bxyIvnU7WWEhwxndPj36ZSzhlg-tVD12kbwz8cB-zAKWsldMut7BGxqOXOqBJuHW2VfwkVUTO6OjhfOcjcqb8Hc5ZxH-vYPOs/s1600/IMAG1218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhVhiz6dnd6QSmyuNswSLmyM0Q3sD6vWYIrrCTL9Qf-bxyIvnU7WWEhwxndPj36ZSzhlg-tVD12kbwz8cB-zAKWsldMut7BGxqOXOqBJuHW2VfwkVUTO6OjhfOcjcqb8Hc5ZxH-vYPOs/s320/IMAG1218.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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I started out with 1 cup of pumpkin (not positive is pumpkin pie mix would work, but it should) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5PwTCga9Qweb3X5PE8qkgfdQ0WjJVEL1RKwxeJ68zGrbTCJuy7Js1s_369vJZjxkSpmePKcAZIoTMwV1cgoqUjWSh2WhotplwLc16rc33zhQj4Gf0GU6pF8Chxfx31PcIm8mG65Cz7g/s1600/IMAG1219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5PwTCga9Qweb3X5PE8qkgfdQ0WjJVEL1RKwxeJ68zGrbTCJuy7Js1s_369vJZjxkSpmePKcAZIoTMwV1cgoqUjWSh2WhotplwLc16rc33zhQj4Gf0GU6pF8Chxfx31PcIm8mG65Cz7g/s320/IMAG1219.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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Add 1 1/3 cups of yellow cake mix. I did a heaping 1/3 cup (the actual ratio was 1:1.3333) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLRVKia9QxzwFuHDcuPgTJrYRZXHH_dLO4JZEre6Z5scH7mH45Z_NaT0BpqYgz2xX0qBaKEGmT5LexAZXCXXQP_1dFIxpMj8QyRlw3zn4tbFJVmhfaXZn2uDwOds2drxe8SJF1bklHsKg/s1600/Photo+on+10-4-12+at+2.18+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLRVKia9QxzwFuHDcuPgTJrYRZXHH_dLO4JZEre6Z5scH7mH45Z_NaT0BpqYgz2xX0qBaKEGmT5LexAZXCXXQP_1dFIxpMj8QyRlw3zn4tbFJVmhfaXZn2uDwOds2drxe8SJF1bklHsKg/s320/Photo+on+10-4-12+at+2.18+PM.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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Mix, mix mix, until the cake mix is incorporated. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRez2ct66wqITBcR2Nj-NBVyC8IR_NG0Tr8BzYuc8X7lboshAhUA1KJNd6nAzvzrBFpO7E_9PkeT27A2HaG9LwqLDxCewXvNG-3XEP1VV_SZTmNq3T37uTrLObOBMz2sOZpprJs2MRkwc/s1600/Photo+on+10-4-12+at+2.18+PM+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRez2ct66wqITBcR2Nj-NBVyC8IR_NG0Tr8BzYuc8X7lboshAhUA1KJNd6nAzvzrBFpO7E_9PkeT27A2HaG9LwqLDxCewXvNG-3XEP1VV_SZTmNq3T37uTrLObOBMz2sOZpprJs2MRkwc/s320/Photo+on+10-4-12+at+2.18+PM+%25232.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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Just for fun I added a dash of cinnamon, cloves and ginger. I also added some chocolate chips. Eyeball it to your liking. I just emptied the little bit in the bottom of the bag. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzFRzG41ZyIHZTL8J7W57BreoFPB0wkzhrSx1PbMFQ_1Qu5AiCx5VCnsQZDfD_n45OKWWhGmUb2Ceu7QqD5tMeWrwGO6pdQEiTELytp3ugoflN0gtTW1Yc6KhdI9-8VeuSpMrIq-fpDc/s1600/Photo+on+10-4-12+at+2.19+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzFRzG41ZyIHZTL8J7W57BreoFPB0wkzhrSx1PbMFQ_1Qu5AiCx5VCnsQZDfD_n45OKWWhGmUb2Ceu7QqD5tMeWrwGO6pdQEiTELytp3ugoflN0gtTW1Yc6KhdI9-8VeuSpMrIq-fpDc/s320/Photo+on+10-4-12+at+2.19+PM.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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Grease a bread pan and put the dough in.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigv05NGzv7FrW9Vbc2ZMBNsbPYOHDBxvfxJlxoTTnwjdBBU9Dy8aWpqtjUaZd0eIq-YYZzUxw1-gLDhh1P8QC1Hayv_Os8ZOFg8f7elOIzwkDBV5t_HxL8pqnC0PdWOPXvusvOWXPONIw/s1600/Photo+on+10-4-12+at+2.20+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigv05NGzv7FrW9Vbc2ZMBNsbPYOHDBxvfxJlxoTTnwjdBBU9Dy8aWpqtjUaZd0eIq-YYZzUxw1-gLDhh1P8QC1Hayv_Os8ZOFg8f7elOIzwkDBV5t_HxL8pqnC0PdWOPXvusvOWXPONIw/s320/Photo+on+10-4-12+at+2.20+PM.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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Spread it out as best you can, it will be thick and hard to spread. Bake @ 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. A knife will come out MOSTLY clean. You want it to be a tiny bit doughy. Let sit for 5 minutes in pan. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4KdxqsdRwktIXlorD1oOC6DOw9fCHV_9C1GtER1wo7HeiIcKsT2u94r5Nkz019UEhUXHzpOPfNFicCUjocY37LORVZ6uyOcuZtHXKlEdfHgAUVr0Like9UEDjaGOtoSBkFqZhq7tOVqk/s1600/IMAG1220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4KdxqsdRwktIXlorD1oOC6DOw9fCHV_9C1GtER1wo7HeiIcKsT2u94r5Nkz019UEhUXHzpOPfNFicCUjocY37LORVZ6uyOcuZtHXKlEdfHgAUVr0Like9UEDjaGOtoSBkFqZhq7tOVqk/s320/IMAG1220.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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Cut and enjoy! I love the little extra that the mini chocolate chips give it. It doesn't take anything like yellow cake, but a good 'lighter' pumpkin taste! Hubby liked them and he's not huge on pumpkin.</div>
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You can make the proportions greater based off my ratio or do as <i>Cookies and Cups</i> did and use a box of cake mix for a can of pumpkin. I just liked being able to use the random amounts in my pantry. Enjoy! </div>
<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-40088920204318998432012-10-01T16:33:00.001-07:002012-10-01T17:15:55.119-07:00Map Wall ArtA few of my friends have been really irritated that I posted about a new project but hadn't shared any details. Well loyal readers, here is that project!<br />
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As some of you already know, I am a military wife. I have always loved the artwork on Pinterest with a 'home' state or different states you have called home. This is a perfect way for us to display the places we have lived and loved!<br />
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Now, I do use a lot of Photoshop [Elements], but I think most of it can be done in Paint if you want to try your own! I am just very familiar with PS so it is my go-to for any editing. I am going to walk you through the whole process.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk11wBdqiMhPSE707o3qgNsbFde6MnClyQYvqiiSgJY3wckcElvdy9V6IOt45v0EmX4xNn_I69nnj_cclD9_kAROu56jGsoghZOIIW8RRXcP3-XJRvaWOrBEKyoiOhPiGuwm_ijuoCTT8/s1600/States1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="78" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk11wBdqiMhPSE707o3qgNsbFde6MnClyQYvqiiSgJY3wckcElvdy9V6IOt45v0EmX4xNn_I69nnj_cclD9_kAROu56jGsoghZOIIW8RRXcP3-XJRvaWOrBEKyoiOhPiGuwm_ijuoCTT8/s400/States1.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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I started out with the regular school colored state maps. I originally was going a whole different way with this and was going to keep the colored map part.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOQLh9xmZ9W14Np-dehbtvdrW0i_AZBvyqoGxijELYttfxmId6I1MTmcYwq3WUp2iNFKjuvbwH4pqf6tcaecGLxPwRmI84F4UOxKtBecctqQ7wKT0ybrlPo-YgiuWKdhdAKsn7ZtgYSk/s1600/lasso.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOQLh9xmZ9W14Np-dehbtvdrW0i_AZBvyqoGxijELYttfxmId6I1MTmcYwq3WUp2iNFKjuvbwH4pqf6tcaecGLxPwRmI84F4UOxKtBecctqQ7wKT0ybrlPo-YgiuWKdhdAKsn7ZtgYSk/s1600/lasso.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiwTr2JREciqNjTY2FJs8GFcM3OkUsNWlgQVOvZqYDZUyW80ygKYzwlaQ1RahemFxSJWFZvo6asxrxKrLiyT0s7KGBMAwTYwiuq_9CeVD7KpBT65PzFy8Jiet0I0Dtswutc4maWylLN0g/s1600/IMAG1207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiwTr2JREciqNjTY2FJs8GFcM3OkUsNWlgQVOvZqYDZUyW80ygKYzwlaQ1RahemFxSJWFZvo6asxrxKrLiyT0s7KGBMAwTYwiuq_9CeVD7KpBT65PzFy8Jiet0I0Dtswutc4maWylLN0g/s1600/IMAG1207.jpg" /></a> </div>
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I used an eraser tool and a magnetic lasso tool to take the background from around both maps. Then I made a black border around the edge of each map with the paintbrush tool.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzLCW4cIwlDxiFY-2J7Ai9C9sjyy_DulsDTMS4pywPnJrZJo_H6aiT-ZTl_SvSthgUVJ18SlJol-up_ffEujkZEFNDRW12KwqmbyUMJIgFMOQflfNFWAhHa3rA3igrwCMgjRkErrGnZxE/s1600/states2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="77" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzLCW4cIwlDxiFY-2J7Ai9C9sjyy_DulsDTMS4pywPnJrZJo_H6aiT-ZTl_SvSthgUVJ18SlJol-up_ffEujkZEFNDRW12KwqmbyUMJIgFMOQflfNFWAhHa3rA3igrwCMgjRkErrGnZxE/s400/states2.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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I was going to make the maps black on white, but then I remembered that our walls are cream colored and I wanted to reverse the colors to make them stand out more. The hearts are a Font For Peas Font, Ellie Bellie. (Available for free at <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/fonts/" target="_blank">Kevin & Amanda</a>) And the hearts are placed in the two cities David and I have lived in together. Found the quote from a google search. Love it! So fitting for us as a military family!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOWqmB3ISv2nHtup3tDYkmH8VkYuMC8hSEL6N1CiKAUZgkCdkTttIBy4hD-3Hf8cqQp-iADCqWsmm_e0-Ms0toYvt-dSye2i87XbBpLnMbkZHZNQ8RIIVM1TjRD6lrMp_tmw2Romrqi8/s1600/states3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="77" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOWqmB3ISv2nHtup3tDYkmH8VkYuMC8hSEL6N1CiKAUZgkCdkTttIBy4hD-3Hf8cqQp-iADCqWsmm_e0-Ms0toYvt-dSye2i87XbBpLnMbkZHZNQ8RIIVM1TjRD6lrMp_tmw2Romrqi8/s400/states3.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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Once I got the prints how I liked them, I ordered them from Mpix.com. I highly recommend them for photos! The shipping is quick and if you sign up for emails, they have deals all the time!</div>
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I got them in 12x12 because those were the sizes of my canvases at home. I trimmed about 1/8 inch off each side. Now grab some wax paper, a brush and your Mod Podge!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycylmemCyR_sZG0lMvkcJjNs7cKo113JT2DuDV-t-3jLrwKjOxjH8kc1nBxxi6LY0esBNiLArILcMDxlOBmM0SrDl36NGss98OUSh-1fBs3rNI0oLv10o5SwDr7HpFBLWCxpYApoJWTs/s1600/states4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="77" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycylmemCyR_sZG0lMvkcJjNs7cKo113JT2DuDV-t-3jLrwKjOxjH8kc1nBxxi6LY0esBNiLArILcMDxlOBmM0SrDl36NGss98OUSh-1fBs3rNI0oLv10o5SwDr7HpFBLWCxpYApoJWTs/s400/states4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Place your photo face down on the wax paper and cover the back with a thin layer of Mod Podge. (The <a href="http://thesassypepper.blogspot.com/2010/11/mod-podge-photos-on-canvas.html" target="_blank">The Sassy Pepper</a> did this with photos and placed Mod Podge on the canvas to dry first.) I didn't do this step.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXQMYA19XqXo5BodGNWMT6jc41u7M_pyHcz_VIIIn38whyphenhyphen9OD_HHYpsWS9U8lu-eztF6AeOEXxdBPEsRdmRLB_dDoUiqm2jXDs-ORwZ8JDBFR0XmwY5_ItqIwKDN5tj4jtfCmhjrqr2k/s1600/states5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="77" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXQMYA19XqXo5BodGNWMT6jc41u7M_pyHcz_VIIIn38whyphenhyphen9OD_HHYpsWS9U8lu-eztF6AeOEXxdBPEsRdmRLB_dDoUiqm2jXDs-ORwZ8JDBFR0XmwY5_ItqIwKDN5tj4jtfCmhjrqr2k/s400/states5.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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Use a towel to smooth out the canvas. I also flipped it over since the canvas isn't supported in the middle. Let dry for 20 minutes. When it has dried, carefully brush a thin layer of Mod Podge over the photo. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95h1Mt3fvc9aUqvfOKvBJaWsaTVU97kbpA7tXHHaKuDjVnXYK-IONsMC9Ig34XnGeWaKjEgzdsTwh4qa8on7O0Nwi0vI-SYq6Lb1x0w2TMV0U2ceA8JvKluHdoNXHJLOQX1Ch4Ns1t_A/s1600/states6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="77" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95h1Mt3fvc9aUqvfOKvBJaWsaTVU97kbpA7tXHHaKuDjVnXYK-IONsMC9Ig34XnGeWaKjEgzdsTwh4qa8on7O0Nwi0vI-SYq6Lb1x0w2TMV0U2ceA8JvKluHdoNXHJLOQX1Ch4Ns1t_A/s400/states6.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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Be sure to keep the Mod Podge thin and even over the photo. Let dry 20 minutes. I also did a second coat because my first wasn't quite even and you could tell.</div>
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Now again, originally I planned on leaving the edges white, but it didn't look finished at all. I used an acrylic black paint and foam brush to paint the edges of my photo canvases. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPA8zlrV4gdPziqfYnmENojBhcA3ULqzqVmLmxuu073POmtA1rzwy_vfyUPXf5dV6_wtit7YTGtgC3-nOuXbBpl1iG53h3yVkWS6melZ4OOo7e829en5W7wwQduEOz8CW6-XGGrW95QjM/s1600/IMAG1210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPA8zlrV4gdPziqfYnmENojBhcA3ULqzqVmLmxuu073POmtA1rzwy_vfyUPXf5dV6_wtit7YTGtgC3-nOuXbBpl1iG53h3yVkWS6melZ4OOo7e829en5W7wwQduEOz8CW6-XGGrW95QjM/s320/IMAG1210.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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This is not where I will keep them (I took down my other canvases so I could hang these for the photo) I love these and especially the quote. With moving from our home state and possible deployments, this quote hits it right on the head! <3</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<br />Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-83269992487237844662012-09-10T14:03:00.003-07:002012-09-10T14:05:57.037-07:00Black & White Cookie Dough CheesecakeI asked my husband a couple weeks ago what kind of cake he wanted for his birthday. After some thinking, he told he a cookie dough cheesecake. Okay, so I started googling and searching Pinterest for some recipes. Most of them I found were actually bars and not a real cheesecake. I decided I would actually make my own cookie dough cheesecake.<br />
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I used a general recipe for the measurements. I am not good enough to guess on eggs/sugar/cream cheese yet :/ ! However I think I rocked out this cheesecake!<br />
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You will need:<br />
-1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs<br />
-1/3 cup butter, <b>melted</b><br />
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-3, 8oz packages of cream cheese, <b>softened</b><br />
-3/4 cup brown sugar<br />
-1/2 cup greek yogurt (or sour cream)<br />
-3 tablespoons all-purpose flour<br />
-1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />
-3 eggs<br />
-1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (extra 1/4 cup for drizzle)<br />
-1 1/2 cups white chocolate<br />
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<a href="http://baskersfunfoods.blogspot.com/2009/05/cookie-dough-for-preggies.html" target="_blank">Egg-Less cookie dough</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3sBWcVPDPqRaRZP-lDIVevYISKp83TBC2p0tHLD1z5qndnPVkZcOvKdwSBrMilawWLI3o2WOPbKQPHhtNf_obIsrn5ue7fFvPq9b-lYHVG9I7Bx_MP2DsJgImVymwICLMHnLD9LvDxw/s1600/IMAG0960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3sBWcVPDPqRaRZP-lDIVevYISKp83TBC2p0tHLD1z5qndnPVkZcOvKdwSBrMilawWLI3o2WOPbKQPHhtNf_obIsrn5ue7fFvPq9b-lYHVG9I7Bx_MP2DsJgImVymwICLMHnLD9LvDxw/s200/IMAG0960.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfB_Ssa9pLgLTb9vHtY79syxedXx8LW0cWZEdPaJwTaVXlQ3-EOQH1ORCVCeZNeeMt4IsnWxrKAWONloqQ7roi9X4eIHaaPWavL8bkXWYAXWjaOqil8VWc5gJf7bFlp82McxY2r5IufZo/s1600/IMAG0961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfB_Ssa9pLgLTb9vHtY79syxedXx8LW0cWZEdPaJwTaVXlQ3-EOQH1ORCVCeZNeeMt4IsnWxrKAWONloqQ7roi9X4eIHaaPWavL8bkXWYAXWjaOqil8VWc5gJf7bFlp82McxY2r5IufZo/s200/IMAG0961.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Crush your graham crackers into fine crumbs. While you are doing this melt the butter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvLNxtyKlFy5yXCdNh4kO2K-JBIiPRFv26eQg3B8zxF1i6s1kT6vdFSW2Rye3ZQI1IKmEFlv7JmulJE5RoFCCdgfsLjU5qr7vntmdV5NCuCazUZksKMdot8m3QM2hZG6koNzBIGNcOMc/s1600/IMAG0963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvLNxtyKlFy5yXCdNh4kO2K-JBIiPRFv26eQg3B8zxF1i6s1kT6vdFSW2Rye3ZQI1IKmEFlv7JmulJE5RoFCCdgfsLjU5qr7vntmdV5NCuCazUZksKMdot8m3QM2hZG6koNzBIGNcOMc/s320/IMAG0963.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mix well to make the crust for the cheesecake. Grease your pan. I also placed a circle of parchment paper on the bottom to be extra sure it wouldn't stick. Press your crust on the bottom and up the side about an inch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-B0BSYgnUcc2QAHzcKKiWBbQ9ZhKZfLxBxoY-qezEGv8OUEXY8HKbLMguvrJhluSarTXIjcpSUZZ0khfsJ9ELrjbjbP7kKvVJ7NEuxmDuZibI5TpXkjFHdMXuQ86Yoc2zudiLmO2W4ws/s1600/IMAG0965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-B0BSYgnUcc2QAHzcKKiWBbQ9ZhKZfLxBxoY-qezEGv8OUEXY8HKbLMguvrJhluSarTXIjcpSUZZ0khfsJ9ELrjbjbP7kKvVJ7NEuxmDuZibI5TpXkjFHdMXuQ86Yoc2zudiLmO2W4ws/s200/IMAG0965.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-z-cPnMs_YitqJB1IXAdSftCtdmbOu2MVdfryiJI1OnwVjjSISDsA1Hm6VMysds2pSdjxYjc1rMmOKc9Nji4hjisjaYFcpUg17eo_thBampYSX8r2CiQjuvS-PhQ71w_MKHHkW6SFVXY/s1600/IMAG0966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-z-cPnMs_YitqJB1IXAdSftCtdmbOu2MVdfryiJI1OnwVjjSISDsA1Hm6VMysds2pSdjxYjc1rMmOKc9Nji4hjisjaYFcpUg17eo_thBampYSX8r2CiQjuvS-PhQ71w_MKHHkW6SFVXY/s200/IMAG0966.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Combine the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and flour. Mix well.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSE3Tuq3zX-QIivqRvpfwUevenP_QGcDluF1blU7ElSi3LyaQDAUDdz5jVvOdYkRDsvgn0lRl18fWs7NzJDXwIkbSMGo6OmOeRc7YmM5Vpw04qAqhsvg7A_2bl1Kv0Seq3tT5jAD3Wrs0/s1600/IMAG0967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSE3Tuq3zX-QIivqRvpfwUevenP_QGcDluF1blU7ElSi3LyaQDAUDdz5jVvOdYkRDsvgn0lRl18fWs7NzJDXwIkbSMGo6OmOeRc7YmM5Vpw04qAqhsvg7A_2bl1Kv0Seq3tT5jAD3Wrs0/s200/IMAG0967.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwrsUhxASz9mX-eO8RDPXyg1gXs2PfYm1AEqfrKSVAUsMp1s7dL1_aFoAd7fVL_eP91_F-MwX3JNVwYqrwgbC_B5M1UTlQiqti_mrGKB6aGoFwPYL7lK4Ix5Zi6swntzqS_KvEeW_I1c/s1600/IMAG0970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwrsUhxASz9mX-eO8RDPXyg1gXs2PfYm1AEqfrKSVAUsMp1s7dL1_aFoAd7fVL_eP91_F-MwX3JNVwYqrwgbC_B5M1UTlQiqti_mrGKB6aGoFwPYL7lK4Ix5Zi6swntzqS_KvEeW_I1c/s200/IMAG0970.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Take a second to scrape the sides. Add the eggs and vanilla. Mix well!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejtYSmg5nsRHFNRGYaehHFPH9IeHf-55uYU7usPaW9xCD_PO-dpkunCE7XWcoOtIcuTSdo7l2s-n9Si2lpjAFn7-P0i4H-HukvH5qZTKCSnlJ9TdBJ_qF-5FlIoBQvPhFZLIwy-WVn1s/s1600/IMAG0964.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejtYSmg5nsRHFNRGYaehHFPH9IeHf-55uYU7usPaW9xCD_PO-dpkunCE7XWcoOtIcuTSdo7l2s-n9Si2lpjAFn7-P0i4H-HukvH5qZTKCSnlJ9TdBJ_qF-5FlIoBQvPhFZLIwy-WVn1s/s200/IMAG0964.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirO_cMEaHYGjmmLGkjIGedEoyzoaG8Q3I7U3ExF9F23lOd6q-feaHmXC4MYAMwTLlaVb-nuk5jUWce5BG_urqSMlbbW5CDxMHUrM3f3Zim9K0iilTsHFwj3_09-5R7wHE0x3QzN8mphDQ/s1600/IMAG0969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirO_cMEaHYGjmmLGkjIGedEoyzoaG8Q3I7U3ExF9F23lOd6q-feaHmXC4MYAMwTLlaVb-nuk5jUWce5BG_urqSMlbbW5CDxMHUrM3f3Zim9K0iilTsHFwj3_09-5R7wHE0x3QzN8mphDQ/s200/IMAG0969.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a></div>
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Melt the chocolates on a double boiler (or in the microwave if you are very careful). Heat until almost completely melted, then take off the heat and stir until the rest is melted.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytxB7-NnSNFA2_1p87SRk9TVIiBMq7kSjv2TEZgFCn8YskqsCry94ygAmbbLcQuRePPyrLiwyhsh0nWSCk6UZqnMqY3CeOx19E4Ca3E_MvnDReN1KMyBTaokfge9bC1Y7iFW8qJ6qZOQ/s1600/IMAG0972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytxB7-NnSNFA2_1p87SRk9TVIiBMq7kSjv2TEZgFCn8YskqsCry94ygAmbbLcQuRePPyrLiwyhsh0nWSCk6UZqnMqY3CeOx19E4Ca3E_MvnDReN1KMyBTaokfge9bC1Y7iFW8qJ6qZOQ/s200/IMAG0972.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebdTE6O62Tj6NVINwnVEZdGMkxPJaddw2onrRCM78jTI9JsMA3JIHDVEdguXvw4HTpIf3I_L5eB8F5oQKD8I3Nk5xQGkdu2C20cVFXnzj46U49fMjcOH4WELw_ZS8xnpsnbijP1dO8A4/s1600/IMAG0973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebdTE6O62Tj6NVINwnVEZdGMkxPJaddw2onrRCM78jTI9JsMA3JIHDVEdguXvw4HTpIf3I_L5eB8F5oQKD8I3Nk5xQGkdu2C20cVFXnzj46U49fMjcOH4WELw_ZS8xnpsnbijP1dO8A4/s200/IMAG0973.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Now we are going to make the 'black' layer of the cheesecake. Scoop out a cup and a half of the cream cheese batter and add to the melted chocolate. Mix very well, scraping the sides.</div>
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Spoon the chocolate cream cheese mixture onto the crust. Spread it out as evenly as you can. This other layer will also help do this, so don't worry too much about it.</div>
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Stir your white chocolate and add it to the remaining cream cheese mixture.</div>
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Mix well. I also added some mini chocolate chips to this. Layer it on top the the chocolate and even the top. Bake @ 300 degrees for 1 hout and 10 minutes or until the center is <b>almost</b> set. </div>
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Let cool on wire rack for ten minutes and then run a knife around the outside. </div>
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While the cheesecake is cooling, mix your <a href="http://baskersfunfoods.blogspot.com/2009/05/cookie-dough-for-preggies.html" target="_blank">cookie dough</a>. Freeze and then chunk into small pieces. </div>
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After the cheesecake has cooled for awhile, place the cookie dough chunks on top of the cheesecake. You may need to press them into the cake a little bit. Then to make it extra pretty, I drizzled melted chocolate on the top of the cookie dough.</div>
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Check out the delicious-ness! Hope you enjoy!</div>
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Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-87812561499274131302012-09-09T19:11:00.005-07:002012-09-09T19:11:54.762-07:00Top Seven SundaysThis week I am going to be featuring the Top Seven craft 'pins' or projects I want to try! I just recently started a different shift at work and I am hoping I will have more time to start getting crafty! (Not in any order)<br />
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<a href="http://ana-white.com/sites/default/files/resize/3154804440_1326910799-470x313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://ana-white.com/sites/default/files/resize/3154804440_1326910799-470x313.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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1. <a href="http://ana-white.com/2012/03/plans/chestwick-platform-bed-queen-size#" target="_blank">Platform Bed</a>: This bed is gorgeous and you can stain the wood however you like. The wood doesn't seem to be any more expensive than buying a bed either! Plus David says it would be pretty easy to make. Hoping we get on this soon because our bed is on the floor!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTvbTlkLNn8Zg4_uo_4_cnT5OFR7SnLbZLQOowKFTi2FXOOdecBv1Z0uk4t608SF0-n-DLF6sl4dZtQgDG7JJzzQiCsv3Ln-WEdlEXZQj73hV4KMxqa-nfViqHPCvthosgEPxRYihGuXw/s1600/untitleddfftrr.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTvbTlkLNn8Zg4_uo_4_cnT5OFR7SnLbZLQOowKFTi2FXOOdecBv1Z0uk4t608SF0-n-DLF6sl4dZtQgDG7JJzzQiCsv3Ln-WEdlEXZQj73hV4KMxqa-nfViqHPCvthosgEPxRYihGuXw/s200/untitleddfftrr.png" width="133" /></a><br />
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2. <a href="http://kimboscrafts.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-08-02T10%3A17%3A00-06%3A00&max-results=20" target="_blank">Painted Pinecones</a>: I have actually started this one and can't wait to put them out in my hurricane vase!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjFXa2Fjykow_pEpv3KcrXgPpdvLhTCS-S6nu2oDFOqgsZZ0bpXue7vz8V3PJTX9_eiEgojN0hhfH3wL0T8AmJYp8PLj48-6hLIcrrrI3fjl1Sdh0G7a9vTwjSnqBi4d5IgQQ5JCiJ824/s1600/casserole+carrier+077+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjFXa2Fjykow_pEpv3KcrXgPpdvLhTCS-S6nu2oDFOqgsZZ0bpXue7vz8V3PJTX9_eiEgojN0hhfH3wL0T8AmJYp8PLj48-6hLIcrrrI3fjl1Sdh0G7a9vTwjSnqBi4d5IgQQ5JCiJ824/s200/casserole+carrier+077+copy.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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3. <a href="http://www.2littlehooligans.com/2010/10/24/casserole-carrier-tutorial/" target="_blank">Casserole Carrier</a>: The way we have been having get-togethers and the way I bake, one of these would be great! Not sure if I can handle making it or not though.<br /><br />
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<a href="http://welcometoheardmont.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://welcometoheardmont.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3287.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
4. <a href="http://welcometoheardmont.com/2011/02/tutorial-how-to-make-a-striped-shower-curtain/" target="_blank">Shower Curtain</a>: Our Master showers here were ridiculousy built and a normal shower curtain just doesn't fit! This seems pretty easy using a sheet or a fabric pattern.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmsDO3-RCQXZavMJ0U3tYZBipr8z5PWenCElQRZ0P4bHmuBbZJ3vxAg-CHvqD29nr4f82yZ3L3baFcd-mDS-TWLpf-d_oqg0h5osAwywt53-ZkPdUaCDaApKGo7QgnO0YPH-18yk-c6W8/s1600/IMG_8785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmsDO3-RCQXZavMJ0U3tYZBipr8z5PWenCElQRZ0P4bHmuBbZJ3vxAg-CHvqD29nr4f82yZ3L3baFcd-mDS-TWLpf-d_oqg0h5osAwywt53-ZkPdUaCDaApKGo7QgnO0YPH-18yk-c6W8/s1600/IMG_8785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmsDO3-RCQXZavMJ0U3tYZBipr8z5PWenCElQRZ0P4bHmuBbZJ3vxAg-CHvqD29nr4f82yZ3L3baFcd-mDS-TWLpf-d_oqg0h5osAwywt53-ZkPdUaCDaApKGo7QgnO0YPH-18yk-c6W8/s1600/IMG_8785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmsDO3-RCQXZavMJ0U3tYZBipr8z5PWenCElQRZ0P4bHmuBbZJ3vxAg-CHvqD29nr4f82yZ3L3baFcd-mDS-TWLpf-d_oqg0h5osAwywt53-ZkPdUaCDaApKGo7QgnO0YPH-18yk-c6W8/s1600/IMG_8785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmsDO3-RCQXZavMJ0U3tYZBipr8z5PWenCElQRZ0P4bHmuBbZJ3vxAg-CHvqD29nr4f82yZ3L3baFcd-mDS-TWLpf-d_oqg0h5osAwywt53-ZkPdUaCDaApKGo7QgnO0YPH-18yk-c6W8/s200/IMG_8785.jpg" width="133" /></a><br />
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5. <a href="http://doityourselfdivas.blogspot.com/2011/05/diy-baby-rag-quilt.html" target="_blank">Rag Quilt</a>: This is something that I think I can do, but would take a little bit of trial and error and maybe some youtube videos. Its probably not actual quilting, but I love the stripes!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGAG7mB3EvB3xAWzm6tGZgf2zuSlpyrRUcDudU1LP9nXArWqjM-eJyodyDCAr0spNXo9TMA1eDnkNXPep9eGL5nNc1D2-NFHuIJn4iCzVKO9-vWbiqEpzrNKwRwlx4r6Ahgxmgtm-_VY/s1600/IMG_0249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGAG7mB3EvB3xAWzm6tGZgf2zuSlpyrRUcDudU1LP9nXArWqjM-eJyodyDCAr0spNXo9TMA1eDnkNXPep9eGL5nNc1D2-NFHuIJn4iCzVKO9-vWbiqEpzrNKwRwlx4r6Ahgxmgtm-_VY/s200/IMG_0249.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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6. <a href="http://www.adventuresindressmaking.com/2012/05/button-up-refashion-swap-recylced-mens.html#.UE1FJaTKjL8" target="_blank">Refashion Men's Shirt</a>: I actually have two men's button-up shirts from GoodWill that I am going to play around with and try to make a dress or a cute women's shirt! Wish me luck!<br /><br />
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<a href="http://cottontailbabies.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://cottontailbabies.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/13.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
7. <a href="http://cottontailbabies.org/2011/01/unpaper-towel-tutorial/" target="_blank">Unpaper Towels</a>: This would take some convincing with my husband, but I love the idea of getting rid of paper towels. I would have to make sure these got washed quickly to be reused, but fabric 'paper' towels would be fun!Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-92177632558349486462012-08-27T11:38:00.000-07:002012-08-27T11:38:01.267-07:00To-Do List: California StyleA friend of mine has taken up blogging and recently posted her 'Bucket List' for their time in CA. I have a list in MS Word I made a while ago. My husband made fun of me. But I figured I would share it and having it online would be a better way to keep track of it. I hope!<br />
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<ul>
<li>Disneyland</li>
<li>Universal Studios</li>
<li>Warner Bros Studios</li>
<li>Dog Beach w/ Lilly</li>
<li>Dinner or brunch cruise</li>
<li><strike>Coronado Island</strike></li>
<li><strike>Sea World</strike></li>
<li><strike>San Diego Zoo</strike></li>
<li>San Diego Safari Park</li>
<li>Lego Land</li>
<li>Knott's Soak City</li>
<li>San Fransicso</li>
<li>Big Bear</li>
<li>Drive the Pacific Coast Highway</li>
<li>Jet Ski</li>
<li>Camp on the beach</li>
<li>Have a party on the beach</li>
<li>Catalina Island</li>
<li>Channel Islands</li>
<li>Laguna Beach/Hunington Beach</li>
<li>Los Angeles/Hollywood</li>
<li>San Diego County Fair</li>
<li>Eat @ Kansas City BBQ</li>
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There may be more to come! Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8051658102063007801.post-76345086811661730822012-08-21T13:39:00.001-07:002012-08-21T13:39:19.186-07:00Top Seven Sunday (Late Edition)I can't believe the hubby and I spent all Sunday inside the house laying around and I forgot to do my Sunday post! So here is the late edition of Top Seven Sundays brought to you today thanks to my stomach bug! :(<br />
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And since I am not feeling so good, today's post is going to be my <b>Top Seven Comfort Foods</b>!<br />
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<a href="http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/files/2010/08/MacNCheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/files/2010/08/MacNCheese.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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1. <a href="http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2010/08/30/easy-baked-mac-cheese/#" target="_blank">Baked Mac & Cheese</a>: Mac and cheese is one of my ultimate comfort foods, not too mention the food I could eat anytime and over and over! This recipe includes four different kinds of cheese, including cream cheese. I can only imagine how creamy and delicious it is! We love cheese in this house. Will be trying this recipe soon! Watch out for a follow-up post!<br />
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<a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2352/1835405272_2a14e1874a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2352/1835405272_2a14e1874a.jpg" width="200" /></a>2. <a href="http://firstadream.blogspot.com/2012/05/potatoes-in-crock-pot.html" target="_blank">Mashed Potatoes</a>: This particular recipe sounds pretty simple in the crock pot. When I make my mashed potatoes I like to use butter, milk, sour cream, dill, and CHEESE! Or if my mom is making mashed potatoes, I take them with her brown gravy! Mmm, gravy is amazing too! <br />
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<a href="http://delicious-cooks.com/data_images/recipes_01/broccoli-cheese-soup/broccoli-cheese-soup-06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://delicious-cooks.com/data_images/recipes_01/broccoli-cheese-soup/broccoli-cheese-soup-06.jpg" width="200" /></a>3. <a href="http://greeneggsnhamman.blogspot.com/2011/10/broccoli-cheese-soup-breadbowls-take-2.html" target="_blank">Broccoli Cheese Soup</a>: This is creamy, cheesy, and warm! Perfect for a dinner pick-me-up. Just thinking about it is making my mouth water. Add some bread bowls and enjoy! <br />
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<a href="http://static.thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/files/2008/01/potroast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://static.thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/files/2008/01/potroast.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
4. Pot Roast and Veggies: This one doesn't really need a recipe. Chuck round roast, potatoes, carrots, onion, roast seasoning packet and golden onion soup. Low for 6-8 hours. And pure delicious-ness. Love carrots cooked this way. This meal also can make gravy! :) <br />
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<a href="http://kevinandamanda.com/whatsnew/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/eagle-brand-milk-ice-cream-challenge-giveaway-25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://kevinandamanda.com/whatsnew/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/eagle-brand-milk-ice-cream-challenge-giveaway-25.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://kevinandamanda.com/whatsnew/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/eagle-brand-milk-ice-cream-challenge-giveaway-25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a></div>
<br />5.<a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/recipes/dessert/easy-homemade-ice-cream-without-a-machine.html" target="_blank"> No Machine Ice Cream:</a> Of Course any ice cream pretty much fits this bill, but its even better if you can just make it yourself. I do not yet own an ice cream machine and this ice cream is easy and very rich and creamy! :) <br />
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<a href="http://www.mypizzabrothers.com/pizzapic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://www.mypizzabrothers.com/pizzapic.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
6. Pizza: Be it delivery or homemade (I was never really a frozen pizza girl) this is a must! We used to make it 'homemade' with my family, but we really just used box crust mix and added our own toppings. Now, David and I make it all homemade. I have found an awesome <a href="http://www.laurenslatest.com/fail-proof-pizza-dough-and-cheesy-garlic-bread-sticks-just-like-in-restaurants/" target="_blank">crust recipe</a> that is easy and delicious! We can add anything we want on top and have the classic comfort food...or not so classic. I am wanting to try mac and cheese pizza :) <br />
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<a href="http://eatathomecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/chicken-and-dumplings-cut-1024x680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://eatathomecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/chicken-and-dumplings-cut-1024x680.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
7.Chicken Pot Pie (Chicken Dumplings): This is a recipe my mom and grandma make that is my all time favorite! It is more of a chicken dumplings, but we always called it chicken pot pie. Basically a chicken broth with dumplings, all warm and thick. I WILL be making this recipe soon! SOO GOOD! Raehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02229453931724552538noreply@blogger.com0