Let The Christmas Shopping Begin!

Have I ever mentioned how much I love Target clearance?!?! :) Ok, yes - I know I have several times! But, today was yet another great day on the clearance racks.

As mentioned, we are going to use our Discover bonus for gift shopping throughout the year, so here is how I spent the first $20 of our bonus!

Playskool Talking Tool Bench: reg. price: $34.99 marked down to $8.74

Little Tikes Microwave with batteries: reg. price: $14.99 marked down to $3.74

Little Tikes Blender: reg. price: $7.99 marked down to $1.98

My Little Pony: reg price: $5.00 marked down to $1.24

Angelina Ballerina poseable doll and DVD: reg price: $14.99 marked down to $3.74

Angelina Ballerina "Learn To Dance" set including ballet outfit, shoes, tiara, DVD, etc...: reg. price: $19.98 marked down to $4.98

Total original prices: $97.94

Total paid: $24.42

I guess it goes without saying that I paid with our Discover card so that I earned a bonus on this also! Some of these gifts will be for other people and some I will keep for Emily. I also thought of putting aside one or two for the Shoebox gifts as quality gifts were discussed on Megan's blog last holiday season.

Painting Timesaver

I cannot remember where I once read this idea, but I decided to try it and it seems to work great! When you are painting and using a paint roller, and know you'll be using it multiple times in a week or so - you can put the paint roller in the freezer between uses and it won't have to be cleaned out each time. Just wrap in plastic wrap - put the whole thing in a gallon size ziploc and pop in the freezer. Then, set out about one hour before you want to paint to let it "thaw" - it has saved me a lot of time in painting and clean-up this week!

P.S. Check out this blog for lots of other great time-saving tips from other Moms and look forward to Works-For-Me-Wednesday ideas! Thanks to Megan and Michelle for participating and passing on the info!

Water Girl!

Free Oak Trees!

Several months ago, we raked leaves and gathered a large pile of acorns. A few days ago, David noticed a big green patch in the acorn pile, what do you know...they are growing into little oak trees! I don't particularly want all these zillion trees in our yard. But, I do think it is really neat to see the tree and the roots coming out of the acorn with zero effort on our part! Any suggestions on what to do with all these little trees? It seems a shame to scoop them up into a black trash bag...

It Pays To Call (Literally!)

I spent a lot of today making phone calls on lots of over-charges or mixed up dr. bills. The combined total would have cost us more than $1000 if I had not called, but most of it may be taken care of with money back even! Just because the dr. says that the insurance denied my claim, does not mean I can't call and find out why! (Turns out it was because they thought I went to an out-of-network-provider: when we got that straightened out, they are going to re-submit my claim!) Anyway, just an encouragement to not just accept what these papers that come in the mail tell you without a little investigation!

On another money-note: The latest 5% Discover card rebate is for gas and auto-related purchases (through 6/30).

Here's to spending a little time on the phone to save a lot of money!

We're Home!

Our week in Florida was beautiful and relaxing. The weather could not have been better and Emily enjoyed playing in the sand this time instead of screaming!

I have wanted to visit this Holy Land in Florida since I don't know when or if I'll actually get to Israel. David's aunt found half-price tickets for us, so we went last Monday. I would not go again with a little toddler - but it is really neat if you ever get the chance to go.

Home projects are now in the front of my mind: painting the spare room, dresser hardware, etc...

I've missed being in touch with all of you and am glad to be back!

North and South

David is headed north for a work conference for the week, so Emily and I are going with his mom to the family condo in Florida! Here's looking forward to a restful week at the ocean!

Fun Finds and Feeling Old...

David and I agreed that we had a great day together yesterday! I enjoyed my trip to Hobby Lobby and found the above goodies! Planter for the porch (50% off), egg basket with six wire cups - great organizer or planter (50% off), pair of scissors to replace the ones I lost during VBS last year (40% off) and a package of rusty tin stars (40% off)! Yeah!

We also enjoyed the concert, though - I must say I felt much older than I usually do. I did not really enjoy the opening band at all, and we had great seats on the floor - but ended up moving to higher seats so we could just sit down and enjoy. The Third Day part of the concert was great and very enjoyable. The encore was the best part of the whole show, I thought!

I guess one reason I felt old was the average age of those attending was probably 15-18! Though there were parents and obvious "chaperones". Maybe I've just out-grown the whole concert idea? Either way, we really enjoyed our day together!

Fun Friday!

We have Grandmum (David's Mom) scheduled to come over this afternoon, so we can enjoy a fun Friday together!

For our anniversary, I surprised David with tickets to a Third Day concert (he missed the last one because Emily was born two days previously!).

Since this involves travelling to another part of South Carolina, we also have stops planned for:

- a new DVD player since our died recently, with a stop to this store
- preschool games on sale here
- and, a much-anticipated trip to one of my all time favorite stores

The only thing that would make this trip better is if they had one of these where we were going!

The Great Dresser Makeover!

As I prepare the spare room to become Emily's new room, I wanted to paint this dresser. (Thank you, Mom for encouraging me to paint it!) I had considered getting rid of it because I disliked it so much, but am really pleased with the small investment of a quart of yellow paint! And, now I realize how silly it was to consider getting rid of it, because a new dresser would have been much more costly.

Ok, now to the next problem - I wanted to get some new hardware for it and just naively assumed that all drawer pulls are the same size. Not so! I bought two different kinds today and neither of them fit.

So, what are your tricks for matching drawer-pull sizes? Or, does anyone have any ideas on how I could re-purpose the existing ones by updating them somehow?

The holes are 2 1/2 inches apart on the dresser and both sets of drawer pulls I purchased today (and now need to return) are 3 inches apart. I have done some basic internet research and this seems to be an unusual size for handles as most come in 3 inches at the smallest. Thanks for any suggestions!

Finding Time

I have learned an important lesson in mothering recently. Finding the time for certain important things is difficult, but the payoff is huge. Here is what I mean:

I began noticing that on the days when I set aside time before Emily got up to have a quiet time and read my Bible, and I mean really read it - think about what I was reading and take the time to understand what I was reading, our day together went so much better. I was more patient, she was more agreeable, just all around it was a better day.

Then this week, I noticed another thing. That when I was lax about reading her a Bible story at breakfast, our days together were harder. When I took the less-than-five-minutes to read her a story, it made such a difference in our day.

All this to say, I have learned the hard way that pushing aside the most important thing - time with the Lord, just invites a more chaotic day. Putting Him first invites Him into my day to be the controller and guide of my day. I want to choose the latter, knowing there will be mornings when I will fail, yet, I will strive to start my day right and start Emily's day right.

It's worth finding the time!

Sweet Surprise!

Yesterday when I opened my mail box, I saw this beautiful box! Who has ever gotten a box in the mail with a flower glued to the front?! So cute! Inside was the little clear business card holder filled with personalized cards of God's promises and His Word using my name whenever applicable. What a sweet and thoughtful gift from my sweet friend, Rebecca! Thank You!

Deals of the Week!

Here are some great deals I found in this week's ads - hope some of you can get the great deals too! :)

Walgreens:
Listerine: 1 liter size on sale for $3.99 (this one came with a free smaller size bottle making the value $7.98)
Colgate Toothpaste: on sale for $1.99 (regularly $2.99) plus a 0.75 coupon in Sunday's paper
Colgate Toothbrush: on sale for $1.99 (regularly $3.99)

Total: $7.62 ($14.96 value)
Mail-In rebate for purchasing all three items - $5.00
Final Cost: $2.62 including tax

Eckerd's Pharmacy:
Herbal Essence Shampoo or Conditioner: on sale for $2.49 (regularly $3.99)
Windex: on sale for $1.99 with a 0.50 in-ad coupon making it $1.49 (regularly $3.69)

Total: $3.98 ($7.68 value)
Mail-In rebate for purchase of H.E. Shampoo or Conditioner: $2.49
Final Cost: $1.71 including tax

Other deals I saw but haven't gotten yet:

Toys R Us: Milton Bradley pre-school games are on sale for $4.99 and there were two $1.00 coupons in the Sunday paper.

Walgreens: Three 12-packs of Dr. Pepper, 7 Up, A&W, Canada Dry or Sunkist for $8 with a $5 mail-in rebate making the total $1 per 12/pk. (Our Walgreens was out of Dr. Pepper - so I have a rain check.) Thanks, Mom, for the tip on this great deal!

Anyone else want to share a great deal?

VBS Craft Ideas

Our VBS this year is focusing on the country of Latin America. And, I'm helping to come up with some craft ideas. I have found a lot of info through Google and through my Aunt! So, am just putting out a plea here for any of you who have ideas that you have tried in the past with children in a VBS or similar format. Thanks!

My Craft Shop!

Over the past few months, I have been making some crafty items to sell! So, my craft shop is now open here. Please stop by and let me know what you think!

Plumbing 102

Our tub drain was running a little slow and I had recently used a commercial drain cleaner only to have this repeat. So, I decided to try a homemade remedy and see how it compared.

Pour 1/2 c. baking soda in drain. Follow with 1/2 c. white vinegar. Cover with rag (will foam) and let sit for 5 minutes. Flush with boiling water.

So far, this seems to be very effective as this morning during my shower, there was no extra water waiting to drain. It is also a very natural cleaner and my favorite part is that it costs about 0.20 per application as compared to bottle of commercial cleaner. The commercial bottle costs at least $3 and they tell you to use 1/4-1/2 of the bottle per application. So, you can see the savings.

Time will really tell if this is effective, though after nearly 48 hours, I am very pleased with the results!

For You, Mom!

Still A Mystery

I was able to get in for an ultra-sound this morning while already at the doctor and the little darlin' is all curled up and doesn't want us to know if they are a boy or a girl! So, a few more weeks, and try again!

Vanilla Wafers

Since our little darling seems to think that vanilla wafers are one of the only foods she can munch on, I decided to try to make them from scratch instead of who-knows-what-is-in-them from the store! Here are the results:

1/2 c. powdered sugar

1/3 c. sugar

1/3 c. shortening

1 egg

1 tsp. vanilla

1 1/2 c. cake flour (I used all-purpose)

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 Tbsp. water

1. Preheat oven to 325.

2. Cream together first five ingredients

3. Add the flour and baking powder. Add water and continue mixing until dough forms a ball.

4. Roll dough into 3/4" balls and flatten slightly onto a cookie sheet.

5. Bake 15-18 minutes or until cookies are light brown.

Makes about 50 cookies.

* David and I both agreed these were yummy and tasted like the "store-bought" kind. Emily likes them, but doesn't eat as many as she did when they came from a box - a benefit in and of itself! :)

PS: I did not change any settings on my blog, but noticed that everything is double spaced - does anyone know how I can correct this?

What's The Deal With Maternity Pants?!

When I was pregnant with Emily, I had a cute pair of capri pants that had elastic in the back waistband but were straight (normal looking) in front. The button to the elastic came off and my pants were falling down, in FRANCE, no less!

Yesterday, a similar thing happened to a pair of jeans - thankfully, I was at home this time. But, it made me wonder what is going on with maternity clothes!? Anyone else have an interesting experience with maternity clothes?! :)

Spring!

We had a lovely afternoon in Savannah on Saturday! The weather was gorgeous and the azaleas are in their prime! We took the Trolley Tour of downtown Savannah which enabled us to see all of the squares, old homes, neat architecture, and provided us with transportation through all of the traffic!

We stopped for lunch at the Gryphon Tea Room which was neat - very European feeling. And, it had a beautiful view as it faced Madison Square.

Continuing our tour, we stopped at the Juliette Gordon Lowe house, she was the founder of the Girl Scouts.

Savannah is a neat place to visit - and I can easily recommend all of the things we did, they were fun and worth the stop!

Easter Grass

One week ago today, I planted this Easter grass! Oh my, needless to say I seem to have started it a bit too early! I think I'll give it a trim and see if I can keep it going until Easter! Next year I'll know that to plant it one week before will be plenty of time! But in spite of how fast it is growing, I am thrilled with the results!

Update

Well, today is day five since starting to feel bad - and I'm finally up and around feeling better. The good news is that everything is ok with the coming baby and although I had multiple symptoms and other junk, God is good and I think I'm on the other side of all of this now! Praise the Lord! Thanks to all of you for your kind words.

My Grandma is arriving this afternoon from St. Louis! I am so excited to see her - she hasn't been here before and has never seen where we live. So, we are really pleased to have this time together! I may be posting sporadically while she is here - but will try to pop in once in a while!

Under The Weather...

Me, that is - I've been feeling very crummy since Saturday night. Which is why you haven't seen anything new here - today involved a trip to the dr. and pharmacy which tired me out so much that I felt almost worse. Hopefully all this will pass quickly with medicine and rest, I'll post something interesting soon!

PS: The Easter Grass is doing great! Can't wait to post an update photo of that!

Growing Easter Grass

In keeping with the new life theme, I cannot bear the thought of using plastic Easter grass in Emily's basket. And, I have always wanted to grow real grass just for Easter - so here goes nothing.

I found wheat grass berries at our health food store for $1/pound. The owner told me that this is what people use to grow Easter grass.

I selected a recycled lunch meat container from my plastic cabinet and cut the rim off with a razor blade that it would fit into the basket. Then I almost filled the container with potting soil. And, sprinkled a generous amount of seeds over the top of that. I covered the seeds with a thin layer of potting soil, watered and put in a sunny window. I read somewhere after the fact, that I should have soaked the seeds for 6-12 hours first, so hopefully they will still sprout, since it is a bit too late for me to dig them out of the soil successfully!

I'll be posting the progress...here is a photo from the planting, minus the top layer of soil to cover the seeds.

Creamy Ranch Chicken

This recipe seems kind of similar to the Spaghetti Carbonara I recently posted, but we liked this much more and it doesn't have the egg-issue. Yummy! this recipe was a $400 prize winner in the Better Homes and Gardens Kid-Pleasing Chicken Entrees Category for March 2006.

Creamy Ranch Chicken

6 slices bacon
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into bite-size pieces
2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
2 Tbsp. ranch dry salad dressing mix
1 1/4 c. whole milk (I used half and half because I had some left from another recipe)
3 c. dried medium noodles (egg noodles)
1 Tbsp. finely shredded Parmesan cheese

1. Cut bacon into narrow strips. In a large skillet cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Drain bacon on paper towels; discard all but 2 tablespoons drippings.

2. In the same skillet cook chicken in reserved drippings until tender and no longer pink, turning to brown evenly. Sprinkle flour and salad dressing mix over the chicken in the skillet; stir well. Stir in milk. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 1 minute more. Stir in bacon. Meanwhile, cook noodles according to package directions. Serve chicken with noodles; sprinkle with Parmesan.

Makes 4 servings.

On Becoming More Thrifty

While I am thrifty in comparison with a majority of Americans, I still feel that I could do better. And, recently am convicted to make the effort to work harder at it. So, I'll be posting regularly on what I'm going to change (this motivates me amazingly!) and how it works.

* First of all, I'm going to reinstate something I used to do and got lazy about when we had a little baby in the house and that is washing out ziplocs and minimizing the use of disposables like plastic wrap, aluminum foil, etc... If I can put it in something washable to save or freeze, that is a savings. Or, if I wash out the ziploc and re-use it, that is also a savings.

* The next thing I am going to do is switch all of our aut0-pay bills to be paid on our Discover Card. I know, you are wondering how this will save us money - here's how:

- We are absolutely committed to pay off our credit card every month, so we will not pay a penny in interest on any of these bills. We simply deduct the amount from our check book and then know the money is spent, when I write one check for the Discover card, I don't have to deduct it from the balance left. I am in no way encouraging the misuse of a credit card to pay bills!

- We get a bonus from our Discover Card that will allow us to receive cash back. So, my plan is to save this all year and use the money to do Christmas and gift shopping throughout the year. This will not only make gift giving more fun, it will also essentially make the gifts free.

- We will watch for special bonuses available from our Discover card. For example, through the end of March, they were offering a special 5% rebate on any medical expenses or health related expenses. So, I paid our entire global payment for the coming baby and we got a great bonus on that.

I know that there are tons of ways I could become more thrifty - but I'm going to start with these. When we were first married, I had just finished reading The Tightwad Gazette books and was extremely motivated to try lots of new ideas. I thought I would try a new idea each month. However, then I found out I was pregnant and did not feel like doing much of anything. So, now I am hoping to get back to this and try to implement at least one new money-saving idea each month.

Please feel free to join in or pass on ideas you have implemented in your home for making the money stretch further!

Update: Well, as nice as the idea was to put our bills on the Discover, it is not working out. The electric and mortgage companies do not accept credit cards for auto pay and the water company does not accept Discover. The only one that is going to work is the phone/internet bill, so I'll just be satisfied with that and keep using the card for everything else that I can.

Easter Basket

I will be adding posts about Easter as I figure out what we are going to do for Emily this year. However, I figured a good place to start was with finding this smallish Easter basket that I mentioned previously.

While in the Easter basket aisle of Wal-Mart, I was getting pretty disgusted with the cartoon characters, sports ball shapes, and just ridiculously huge baskets that they had. Then, I had an inspiration! I saw this pretty basket with the butterflies and it came in two sizes - small and large. So, I looked through the smaller ones and chose this one.

Now, here is the exciting part to me: I can use this basket without regret because it will be so easy to tie in the theme of "new life" with the butterflies! So, perhaps this begins a trend for our Easter celebrating ~ choosing items that can have symbolic meaning and can be used as a teaching tool of the true meaning of Easter.

Keep the ideas coming if you have any!

Plumbing 101

I can now add minor plumbing repair to my home work experience! Our toilet has had a slow drip (inside) that I've been able to hear lately. So, after consulting David's brother - I went to Lowe's to find the part I needed.

I bought the part for less than $7 and spent one hour this morning installing a new Fill Valve Assembly! I wanted to take a picture - because I was so proud of it - but realized you might not all want to see the inside of my toilet tank! Hee Hee

Anyway, the project was successful and I no longer hear a drip!

My next project is to try a homemade remedy on a couple of our drains that are seeming a bit slow. I'll post on that in the future.

Follow Up

I've had some great responses to a couple of previous posts and wanted to share those as well as thank the ladies who sent them!

Mary Ann sent some yummy bread recipes!

The Common Room sent some great tips for entertaining toddlers!

Thank you!

Celebrating Easter

Yes, I'm thinking ahead...but, I've had Easter on my mind the last couple of days. This morning at breakfast, I asked David if we were going to give our kids Easter baskets as they are growing up. He said that he thought we would but that it should clearly include something meaningful and pointing to the true meaning of Easter and the Gospel. I agree. I want to do a small-ish Easter basket for Emily this year. I do want her to experience some of the "fun" of Easter, but I also want her to grow up learning why we celebrate Easter!

I always had an Easter basket growing up, and I think it all comes down to what the attitude is in giving it. If my Mom had never told us the true meaning along with the basket - I might have thought Easter was all about candy and bunnies. A tradition I have kept up is making "bunny biscuits" on Easter morning.

So, I'm just wondering what any of you do to communicate the meaning of Easter to your children. Do you have any traditions? I read somewhere about doing the eggs/bunnies part of Easter on the Saturday before and then keeping Sunday for the celebration of Jesus resurrection. I'm just gathering ideas and wonder if any of you would share what has worked for you and your family? Thanks!

Yard Sale

Our yard sale was this morning - I've been working on this for over a month. Sorting, pricing, organizing, etc... Yard sales are A LOT of work and I always seem to forget this until I'm in the midst/end of one. We made about $70 which was ok, but we had a ton of stuff left at the end which is now going to a thrift store - the best part of this whole deal is that the cleaning out and sorting out is done!

Milk vs. Solid Food

As I was reading in Hebrews this morning, I came across this:

Hebrews 5:11-14, "We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's Word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teachings about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil."

I kept thinking back to last summer when it was such a struggle to get Emily to eat solid food - to teach her how to eat it and to be thankful when she ate one or two bites at a time. I remember her arching her back and crying over the whole ordeal of being fed this food and desiring only milk. It took daily effort, discipline, and perseverance. Now, she loves solid food.

How often is this true of me? Isn't it so much easier to just think over the things I already understand and believe than to dig deeper into God's Word for new things to learn? The learning of the new takes study, thought, effort, and discipline - much like training a baby to eat solid food.

I love the reminder in verse 14, "who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." It is daily. It is discipline - think of the word 'trained'. I picture my Dad - a great runner of marathons, who without training, would not be able to complete the race. But, because of discipline, desire, and goals along the way is able to run with perseverance and finish the race!

Today, I want it to be in the front of my mind to desire solid food ~ in spite of and because of the work it will require. And, to train myself by constant use to distinguish good and evil.

Spaghetti Carbonara

Another new recipe I tried this past weekend from Everyday Food. It was very yummy even leftover and David liked it too! So, this one is a keeper!

Serves 4
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

1 pound spaghetti (we prefer fettucini)
8 ounces bacon (8 slices) cut 1 inch thick crosswise
Coarse salt and ground pepper
3 large eggs
3/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/2 c. half and half

1. Set a large pot of water to boil (for pasta). In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp, 8-12 minutes; transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate.

2. Salt boiling water generously; add pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.

3. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan, and half-and-half. Set aside.

4. Drain pasta, leaving some water clinging to it. Working quickly, add hot pasta to egg mixture. Add bacon; season with salt and pepper, and toss all to combine (heat from pasta will cook eggs). Serve immediatlely, sprinkled with additional Parmesan cheese.

Note: After following all of these directions, I was very skeptical that the eggs were cooked, so put the whole bowl in the microwave for a minute or two. I felt better and knew I was not eating raw eggs in the process.

French Bread

Here is the French Bread recipe we love, from the Betty Crocker cookbook.

Prep: 25 minutes; Proof: 3 hours; Bake: 30 minutes
Makes 2 loaves, 12 slices each

3 to 3 1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 Tbsp. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 package regular of quick active dry yeast
1 c. very warm water (120-130 degrees)
2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
Cornmeal
1 large egg white
1 Tbsp. cold water
Poppy seed or sesame seed

1. Mix 2 cups of the flour, the sugar, salt and yeast in a large bowl. Add warm water and oil. Beat with electric mixer on low speed 1 minute, scraping bowl frequently. Beat on medium speed 1 minute, scraping bowl frequently. Stir in enough remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, to make dough easy to handle (dough will be soft). Turn dough onto lightly floured surface. Knead about 5 minutes or until smooth and elastic.

2. Place dough in greased bowl and turn greased side up. Cover and let rise in warm place 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until double. Rising time is longer than times for traditional breads, which gives the typical French bread texture. Dough is ready if indentation remains when touched.

3. Grease large cookie sheet with shortening; sprinkle with cornmeal.

4. Punch dough down and divide in half. Roll each half into a rectangle, 15x8 inches, on lightly floured surface. Roll up tightly, beginning at 15-inch side, to form a loaf. Pinch edge of dough into roll to seal. Roll gently back and forth to taper ends. Place both loaves on cookie sheet.

5. Cut 1/4-inch-deep slashes across loaves at 2-inch intervals with sharp knife. Brush loaves with cold water. Let rise uncovered in warm place about 1 hour or until double.

6. Heat oven to 375. Mix egg white and 1 Tbsp. cold water; brush over loaves. Sprinkle with poppy or sesame seed.

7. Bake 25-30 minutes or until loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

Ok, now for a few things I do differently: (just to simplify)
- I put all of the ingredients listed in step one into the Kitchen Aid mixer using the paddle attachment, just mix together. Then switch to the dough hook for adding the rest of the flour and this also takes care of the kneading.
- I do not grease the cookie sheet or the bowl the dough is rising in. I just mix the dough in the mixer bowl and place a plate over the top to let it rise.
- I do not use the egg wash or sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds.

Mysterious and Modest Babies

I had been looking forward to posting the results of our ultrasound today where I would be so excited to announce whether we are expecting a boy or a girl!

And, in true-Wilkinson-baby fashion, the ultrasound tech was not able to tell. However, I am excited to say that the baby seems to be healthy and everything looks good on that account which is really the more important thing anyway!

I'm glad that I was prepared for the possibility of not finding out since we didn't last time either! I'll make sure to post again when we do find out!

Bread Recipes?

I make French Bread regularly using the Betty Crocker recipe - it is so easy using the Kitchen Aid dough hook and I love the simplicity of the recipe and it always turns out great!

So, I'm wondering if any of you have a recipe that is really great for basic bread that we could use for toast, sandwiches, french toast, etc...

I don't have a wheat grinder and am not able to invest in one at this point, though I'm sure that would make amazing bread! If you use a mixer or food processor in making the recipe, please let me know that too!

Thanks for sharing your recipes!

Spring Cleaning: Car

Today was the LAST DAY of Spring Cleaning! I am so excited!

I took the easy way out and only cleaned the inside of the car: windows, vacuum, clean out trash and toys, etc... And, plan to go through a car wash for the outside in the next few days.

Thanks for putting up with all of these posts, I'm certainly as ready as you are to move on to something else!

Bright Spots

A couple of great things happened Friday afternoon that were just bright spots in my day:

* Going outside to get the mail, I walked across our porch and just felt like it was such a peaceful place. There was a calm breeze on this warm day and the freshly planted flowers looked so cheery and happy. The whole scene made me smile!

* While I was sitting on the floor of my closet looking through craft supplies, Emily walks up to me and leans her face close telling me she wants a kiss on the forehead. I gladly plant the kiss on her forehead and, satisfied, she toddles away. Precious!

* David's brother wanted to get together for dinner tonight and suggested ordering pizza. So, I found a coupon, called ahead, and decided to pick it up to save lots of extra time waiting for the delivery person. When I got there, they did not have our order ready and I had to wait for them to make it again (not sure what happened here). While I was waiting, I heard a siren go by outside and was thankful to be delayed and not outside in the midst of whatever was going on. When they told me it was ready, no one was at the cash register, so I just waited to pay for our pizza. The cashier finally came back and let me know our dinner was free because of the mix-up and long wait! Now, that was worth the wait!

My Favorite Room in the House

I was tagged by Megan to do this kitchen questionnaire and thought it looked really fun...

1. How many meals does most of your family eat at home each week? How many are in your family? It is pretty rare for us to go out to eat unless I'm running errands in Savannah or something and it happens to be over lunch time. There are three of us, one who eats crackers and fruit mostly!

2. How many cookbooks do you own? Hmmm, I'll have to go count...about 25. There are 3 or 4 that are my favorites and, like Megan, I have pared down many of the cookbooks I did not use and passed them on to someone else.

3. How often do you refer to a cookbook each week? Probably 3 times, if you count referring to the recipe box where my faithful few reside, then probably more often.

4. Do you collect recipes from other sources? If so, what are some of your favorite sources (relatives, friends, magazines, advertisements, packages, the internet, etc.)? Yes, I am a recipe collector, but have tried to pare that down to cut the clutter. I have a photo album with plastic sheets that I can slide the recipes into to try and then I can purge those easily. My favorite sources are Kraft Food & Family, friends, and lately Martha Stewart's Everyday Food magazine.

5. How do you store those recipes? As I mentioned above, I use a photo album with plastic sleeves. Another thing I do is stuff them in between cookbooks until I get around to cutting out the part I'll actually use.

6. When you cook, do you follow the recipe pretty closely, or do you use recipes primarily to give you ideas? I usually follow it very closely. The two exceptions to that are if I want to leave something out or if it says to use multiple separate bowls to mix things - I skip that and mix in one bowl.

7. Is there a particular ethnic style or flavor that predominates in your cooking? If so, what is it? I think of and describe our eating style as homey and farmhouse-like. We don't do gourmet at all and I'm getting to the point where I'm choosing simpler and quicker recipes.

8. What’s your favorite kitchen task related to meal planning and preparation? (eating the finished product does not count) Planning ahead and doing what I can ahead of time to simplify dinner time, it just makes the whole experience more enjoyable.

9. What’s your least favorite part? Aside from this, probably the clean up.

10. Do you plan menus before you shop? Usually.

11. What are your three favorite kitchen tools or appliances? Kitchen Aid mixer, enamelware tea kettle from an antique store, and dishwasher!

12. If you could buy one new thing for your kitchen, money was no object, and space not an issue, what would you most like to have? I'm not sure...but I know David would enjoy this!

13. Since money and space are probably objects, what are you most likely to buy next? Salad tongs - I know this sounds silly, but it is always tricky for me to figure out how to serve salad!

14. Do you have a separate freezer for storage? Yes.

15. Grocery shop alone or with others? Almost always with Emily.

16. How many meatless main dish meals do you fix in a week? Dinners? Probably zero. Breakfasts are almost always meatless and I eat leftovers for lunch.

17. If you have a decorating theme in your kitchen, what is it? Favorite kitchen colors? Our kitchen is sage green. I guess I would say the theme is, "Things I Like". This is one of my favorite rooms in the house and where I spend so much time, I think of it as my "office" and since I am a homemaker - it technically is! Really though, probably a cottage theme would best fit.

18. What’s the first thing you ever learned to cook, and how old were you? Hmmm, the first thing? (Mom, do you remember?) I remember helping my Mom grind nuts, and watching her can tomatoes and her allowing me to help, thought I can't say I remember what the first thing was.

19. How did you learn to cook? From my Mom! She would encourage us to be the chef for the night sometimes and we could pick whatever we wanted to fix: Chef's Choice! My sister was the adventurous one who would check out a library book on food from a different country and prepare us a meal from that. Remember the peanut butter drink? :) For canning, I remember watching my Mom - but re-learned from a book she gave me with great step by step directions and photos.

20. Tagging… I’m tagging Mary Ann, Kathryn and Stacy if you're interested in joining in!

Emily's Busy Week

Emily has seemed kind of bored lately, so I've been earnestly seeking new ideas of things for her to do! And, I decided I would try something new with her every day this week. So, what she has done each day this week is:

Monday: Play outside with new ball
Tuesday: Paint-with-water book
Wednesday: Play with bucket of water, paintbrush, and cups outside. Thanks, Meredith for the tip! She also used the opportunity to taste dirt!




This is what I did while she was tasting dirt! (Thanks, Grace for the planters! The pansies did not survive the cold weather we had last week!)

The plans for the rest of the week are:
Thursday: Bubbles
Friday: Playdough

So far, they have all been great fun and successful new ideas for her to enjoy! Now, I'm exploring the books Baby Days and Baby Play & Learn. So, I'll keep you updated on Emily's new adventures!

Spring Cleaning: Porches

Front Porch:
* Sweep off all leaves
* Plant fresh flowers in planters
* Wipe down rocking chairs

Back Porch:
* Sweep
* Put tools in shed
* Tidy
* Plant fresh flowers in planters

I won't have a specific time completed on this because I have already done a lot of it and have to get some more flowers for the back porch - but I would estimate an hour and a half or so total.

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

Another recipe to share from Everyday Food. I chose this one because I already had all the ingredients on hand. I loved the way the cheese made a crispy crust around the chicken. Enjoy!

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
Serves 4
Prep Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes

4 slices firm white sandwich bread, torn into large pieces
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 Tbsp. coarsely chopped fresh parsley
coarse salt and ground pepper
1 large egg, lightly beaten
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets (4-6 ounces each)
2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
2 Tbsp. cold butter, cut into small pieces

1. In a food processor, pulse bread, Parmesan, parsely, and 1/4 tsp. each salt and pepper until fine crumbs form. Transfer mixture to one shallow bol; place egg in another. (Note: I simply mixed seasoned bread crumbs and cheese in a shallow bowl and skipped the food processor all together.)

2. One at a time, dip each chicken cutlet into egg; let excess drip off, then dip into breadcrumb mixture. Press on crumbs firmly.

3. Heat 1 Tbsp. oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook cutlets, two at a time, adding remaining tablespoon oil for second batch, until cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes per side.

4. Wipe skillet clean. Add lemon juice and 1/4 c. water; cook over low heat until steaming, 1 minute. Add mustard. Remove pan from heat, and stir in butter until combined. Serve cutlets with sauce. (I did not make this sauce, and just served them plain.)

Entertaining a Toddler

Calling on all mommy-wisdom! I am searching for ideas on new ways to entertain our little Emily! She is almost 16 months old and is inquisitive and interested, but not yet able to ride a tricycle or color. Any suggestions on new things we can play, try, learn, etc...? I have a couple of books requested at the library which have not come in yet - so am hoping between all of these things to glean some new ideas. I did get her a ball yesterday so we could play with that outside, and she was thrilled with that, so there is a success!

Things she currently loves (but not for an entire day!)
* Books! Looking at the pictures, hearing the stories, turning the pages, etc...
* Playing outside!
* Blocks: stacking, putting in a box, dumping out, etc...
* Dollies and stuffed animals
* Taking sippy cups out of the basket and emptying the Tupperware cabinet
* And, a few other misc toys
* Sitting in the dryer (when not in use obviously and with complete supervision)

Thanks for your suggestions!

Spring Cleaning: Den/Family Room

* Dust ceiling fan
* Dust blinds
* Wash windows inside and out
* Dust windowsills
* Vacuum out couch
* Dust off back and arms of couch with lint roller
* Rotate couch cushions
* Wash rugs (done last week during another load of rugs)
* Brush off quilt hanging on wall
* Vacuum under computer desk
* Clean keyboard and mouse with alcohol
* Thoroughly Dust
* Vacuum

Update: Completed in just over an hour.

Next: Porches (front and back) Thursday, March 2

Figuring Out Food

Reading the Comics yesterday, I loved Cathy. With all the varying diets and food fads out there - it does feel hard to surprise someone with a batch of cookies or a pie ~ not to mention what to serve for lunch when people come over! Will she think I eat poorly if I serve that? Maybe we should have a big salad for lunch so she will think that is what I eat all the time! I'm sure you would all think this funny that I am sitting here eating a Pecan Pie Bar while typing this! Ha! Anyone want to join me?

Spring Cleaning: Emily's Room

This room went very differently because the little Emily was in there with me while we were cleaning! She seemed to think it was fun that we were spending so much time in her room!

Here is what we did:
* Dust the blinds (Good grief did I find some cobwebs!)
* Wash windows inside and out
* Vacuum window tracks
* Dust windowsills
* Change sheets and cover on changing table
* Rotate rocking chair cushions
* Vacuum out rocking chair
* Use lint roller on arms and back of rocking chair
* Clean lamp shade with lint roller
* Dust changing table, book shelf, and edges of crib
* Vacuum
* Clean out trash can and diaper pails

Update: This was completed in about 1 1/2 hours. We stopped to read several stories, get Cheerios, and change a diaper. The pails/trash can are still soaking. But all the rest is done!

Next: Den/Family Room 2/28 Tuesday

Spring Cleaning: Hall Bath

* Wash shower curtain and liner (with curtains from other bathroom)
* Wash rug (already washed in a load of rugs last week)
* Dust light fixture
* Wipe out shower
* Clean tub
* Clean toilet
* Clean mirror
* Clean sink
* Sweep floor
* Wash out trash can

Update: I finally finished this on Saturday and it only took me about 15 minutes because this bathroom is only used for company and to bathe Emily.

Next: Emily's room: Monday, 2/27

The Budget Busting Broom!

Emily has lately become enamored with the broom while I am trying to sweep the floor. So, I thought I'd do a little research on finding a child-size broom that she could play sweep with while I actually got to do the sweeping! I found tons of sites that were praising the use of a toy broom for toddlers, but not many options to purchase one.

The first one I found was just a tad out of our budget especially considering that the broom I use is a one dollar broom from the Dollar Tree! I did find this one also, but am wondering if anyone knows of a store that carries toy brooms where I would not have to pay shipping? Also, David was wondering about just cutting down the handle of a larger broom, though that makes me nervous because of possibilites of splinters no matter how carefully we sand it.

Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

This was my first recipe I made from the new Martha Stewart Everyday Foods magazine. Need I even say how delicious it is?! It was also easy to make!

Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
Makes 32
Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature, plus 2 Tbsp. melted (I used margarine)
1/4 c. packed light-brown sugar
1 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt (I never put salt in desserts)

3 large eggs
3/4 c. light corn syrup (I only had dark)
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1 package (11.5 oz.) semisweet chocolate chips (2 cups)
2 c. coarsely chopped pecans

1. Preheat oven to 350. Line the bottom and sides of a 9x13 baking pan with aluminum foil. (I would suggest lightly spraying the foil to make them easier to remove.) In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat 1 stick room-temperature butter, brown sugar, flour, and salt until coarse crumbs form. Pour mixture into prepared pan; press firmly into bottom.

2. Bake until lightly browned, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool, 10 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, in the same large bowl, mix eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Add chocolate chips and pecans; spread over crust. Bake until set, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool completely in pan before lifting out (using foil to life). Cut into 32 bars (8 rows by 4 rows).

I put them back into the 9x13 pan after cutting and removing the foil, just for simpler storage.

Enjoy!

A Quick Meal

Since my dinner plans for last night were foiled by my forgetting my wallet...I fell back on this favorite which is incredibly easy and we always really enjoy it! I'm not usually a fan of mixes or jarred sauces, but after trying so many recipes - we've found we like this the best! This is ready in less than 30 minutes and I decided to submit to Gooseberry Patch for the Super-Speedy Supper ideas:

Broccoli Chicken Fettucini Alfredo

* I have tried many homemade alfredo recipes and this mix has turned out to be our favorite. It is quick, easy, and yummy!

1 sm. bunch broccoli cut off of stem (or 1 1/2 c. frozen)
1 large chicken breast
4 oz. uncooked fettucini noodles
1 package alfredo sauce mix and ingredients as directed on back of package
1 Tbsp. oil
Salt, Pepper, and Garlic to taste

Pour 1 Tbsp. oil into a skillet and add chicken cut into chunks. Add seasonings. Cook over medium heat until lightly browned all over. Meanwhile, cook fettucini according to package directions. Cut broccoli flowerets into bite size pieces and steam in microwave for about 3 minutes. When chicken is done, remove from skillet. Make alfredo sauce according to package directions in skillet. When thickened as desired, add chicken, broccoli (with water drained off), and pasta. Heat through. Serves 2 with leftovers.

Taking It Personally

This morning in an attempt to simplify - I decided not to take my purse to Bible Study - one less bag. So, I put my wallet in with my study materials and was off. Worked great.

I've been trying for three days to get to the grocery store. Between what was on the calendar and Emily's nap time - today was the first afternoon I had to go.

So, off to Wal-Mart we went. Um, anyone see where this is going yet? Yep, you guessed it - I did all my shopping, appeased Emily with graham crackers (which were not the Cheerios she wanted) and got what we needed and even a special treat for dinner.

Off to the self-check-out line. Everything scanned, coupon deducted, groceries bagged in canvas bags from home to cut down on plastic bags, and my check written out.

Oops - forgot my wallet - must be in other bag (yes - simplifying). Oh well, they'll probably still take my check right? Wrong. The girl made me feel like a speck when she told me they did not accept checks without ID.

So, after one hour I came home with no groceries, a change in dinner plans, injured pride, tears in my eyes (yes, the girl made me cry) and after all that I lost my coupon on the cereal I was buying.

Sigh...maybe I'll try again tonight when David is home to stay with Emily. Yes, as the title suggests I DO take everything personally. If anyone wants to suggest that this is just pregnant emotions - please feel free to with-hold your comment, because you know I might take it personally. :)

Confession...

Instead of doing today's assigned spring cleaning, I sat on the porch swing and read my brand new edition (first issue I've rec'd) of Everyday Food. Yum, yum, yum. I can't wait to start cooking! If Emily is cooperative when she wakes up - I still may try to finish the Hall Bath today - we'll see.

Spring Cleaning: Master Bedroom and Bathroom

* Dust bathroom light fixtures
* Wash shower curtain and liner (with shower curtain and liner from hall bath)
* Wipe out shower
* Clean tub
* Clean toilet
* Wash rug (already washed with other rugs last week)
* Wash out trash can
* Sweep floor
* Clean mirror
* Clean sinks
* Sweep floor
* Dust ceiling fan/light fixture (with a sheet over the bed)
* I would usually wash the quilt on our bed but it was washed recently and I want to avoid too much wear from washing too frequently, so it is getting skipped this time around.
* Take down curtains and shake outside
* Dust blinds
* Wash window inside/out
* Vacuum out window track
* Dust thoroughly
* Lampshades and bed skirt - use lint roller (I would also normally wash the bed skirt - our bed is extremely heavy and I cannot lift it, so this will have to do)
* Vacuum

Update: Completed in 1 hr and 25 minutes. Trash can is still soaking and shower curtains will be washed tomorrow as the washer is already in use for today!

Two Years!

Photo Credit: Stacy Richardson

Distracted...

It seems that since becoming a mom, having a conversation where I can really focus on what someone is telling me is harder and harder. I don't notice this on the phone as much as when I'm talking with someone in person. Is it because my mind is re-training to think of someone else (Emily) more than myself and wondering where she is and what she is doing? Or, is it a choice that I must make to choose to concentrate and focus on the conversation? Sigh...

Perspective

Lately I've been reading the Little House books again as it has been a while. But, somehow this time around my perspective seems to be so different. Perhaps because I'm married, or perhaps because I have a daughter, I'm not sure.

But, I look at how Pa is always wanting to move. They move, get settled, and hmm, something isn't the way he thought it would be here and they move again. Ma seems patient enough with all of this, but I probably would not be. Especially because the way Pa picks a place to live is by how it seems at the time he sees it - he does think through what the provisions would be for his family and I appreciate that - but, I'm feeling weary for them and I'm only in the 4th book!

It seemed like their life in the Big Woods was great - near family, plenty of food, home, neighbors, not far from town, but I guess there was no school for the girls. Then it just seems like move after move.

Ok, enough whining - there are many great lessons I can learn from this family and much I can learn and appreciate about both their way of life and the conveniences I have available to me on a daily basis.

Spring Cleaning: Living Room

Note: David usually cleans out the fireplace...so I'm saving that and the firewood box for him to do this weekend, which he agreed to do so it won't be on my list of cleaning today. Thanks, David!

* Dust light fixture and ceiling fan
* Take down curtains and shake outside
* Dust blinds
* Wash windows inside and out
* Dust mantle
* Dust plants
* Dust lamp shades with lint roller
* Dust top edges and arms of couches with lint roller
* Vacuum out underneath couch/chair cushions
* Rotate cushions
* Vacuum behind couches
* Dust everything
* Shake rugs outside (washed last week with other rugs)
* Vacuum
* Re-hang curtains
* Change furnace/air conditioner filter

Update: I was extremely unmotivated to do this room today and even considered pushing it to another day - but I am glad that it is done! Posting this stuff is helping to keep me accountable to do it! Also, the entry way was scheduled for tomorrow - but being so small and knowing I would not want to get all the cleaning supplies/ladder out again tomorrow, I did that today as well. I finished both rooms in 1 hr. 34 minutes. Is anyone else spring cleaning with me?

Entry Way:
* Dust light fixture
* Wash window inside/out
* Wash window in door inside/out
* Dust
* Shake Rug (already washed last week)
* Sweep Floor

Next: Master Bedroom/Bath Feb. 21

Happy Valentine's Day!

Here I am with my Valentine! :)

We started our morning off with an early breakfast of heart shaped pancakes and ham. It was a fun start to the day which Emily slept through!

I made these brownies yesterday so I could put a fun dessert in David's lunch today and we'll also have them for dessert tonight. I got the idea here, though used my own brownie recipe.

I'm planning to make creamy chicken and green beans with heart shaped biscuits on top for dinner and these scones in heart shapes for a friend who is coming this afternoon for tea!

Spring Cleaning: Laundry Room

Ok, here we go on room number three!

- Dust light fixture
- Dust off top of cabinets
- Wash window inside/out
- Wipe off top of freezer
- Clean inside washer (around lid)
- Clean lint screen (rinse and dry)
- Dust off top of washer, dryer, hot water heater
- Dust off ironing board (with lint roller)
- Shred all papers and empty paper shredder
- Wash dog food/water bowls
- Wash rug and towel under dog bowls (combine with other rugs)
- Sweep and mop floor
- Run 1 gallon white vinegar through washer to clean any soap residue
- Wash out trash can

Update: I had done the washing of the rugs this morning and put the dog bowls in the dishwasher. So, completed the room in 56 minutes.

Next: Living Room on Wednesday 2/15

Word Cloud

Following a link from Tulip Girl's blog...it creates a word cloud for you after scanning your blog...things you write about, common words/themes. I thought it was really fun and interesting to see the outcome!

Good To Know...

I learned a couple of things kind of by accident this week that were very helpful! Maybe you will find them helpful too:

- After an unsuccessful trip to the Library for certain tax forms, I learned you can download them here.

- Noticing my glass candle holders were covered inside with black from smoke and flame, I decided to see what would happen if I put them in the dishwasher. They came out sparkling and good as new! (This would not be for was removal!)

Tied Down?

by Edgar Guest

"They tie you down," a woman said,
Whose cheeks should have been flaming red
With shame to speak of children so.
"When babies come you cannot go
In search of pleasure with your friends,
And all your happy wandering ends.
The things you like you cannot do,
For babies make a slave of you."

I looked at her and said: "Tis true
That Children make a slave of you,
And tie you down with many a knot,
But have you never thought to what
It is of happiness and pride
That little babies have you tied?
Do you not miss the greater joys
That come with little girls and boys?

They tie you down to laughter rare,
To hours of smiles and hours of care,
To nights of watching and to fears;
Sometimes they tie you down to tears
And then repay you with a smile,
And make your trouble all worth while.
They tie you fast to chubby feet
And cheeks of pink and kisses sweet.

They fasten you with cords of love
To God divine, who reigns above.
They tie you, whereso'er you roam,
Unto the little place called home;
And over sea or railroad track
They tug at you to bring you back.
The happiest people in the town
Are those the babies have tied down.

Oh, go your selfish way and free
But hampered I would rather be,
Yes rather than a kingly crown
I would be, what you term, tied down;
Tied down to dancing eyes and charms,
Held fast by chubby, dimpled arms,
The fettered slave of girl and boy,
And win from them earth's finest joy."

Spring Cleaning: Dining Room

Today I have less energy and less motivation - but am determined to stick with this cleaning schedule. So, here's what I'm planning to do:

- Dust light fixture
- Remove everything from shelf and dust
- Take curtains down and shake outside
- Dust blinds
- Wash window inside and out
- Vacuum window track
- Dust windowsill
- Clean all crumbs out of highchair
- Wipe off table and chairs
- Sweep and mop floor

Update: The above was completed in one hour and seventeen minutes (with one phone call interruption). I'm glad I started in the Kitchen last time, because this room was easier and if I had done them the other way around, I'd probably be a bit discouraged.

Next: Laundry Room 2/13

Valentine Cards!

I was inspired by the February Better Homes and Gardens to make these cute cards. They are very simple! Use a small cookie cutter as a pattern and cut out small hearts from various shades or patterns of papers. Use small silver brads to attach to cards in desired pattern. Use thin red ribbon for "stem" or to dangle hearts. Cute!

Spring Cleaning: Kitchen

Ok, Emily is down for her nap and room number one is upon me. Here's what I'm planning to do working from top to bottom:

- Dust ceiling fan and light fixture
- Dust upper walls
- Vacuum light openings and window tracks
- Clean top and inside of exhaust fan and light
- Clean top of fridge
- Wipe off cabinet fronts
- Clean fridge front and inside
- Clean inside of microwave
- Wash windows inside and out
- Wipe all counters down
- Run Oven Clean cycle and wipe out afterwards
- Wipe front of oven and dishwasher
- Clean stove top
- Soak and clean out trash can/recycling bin
- Vacuum under stove and behind fridge
- Wash Rug: Combine with other rugs for one load
- Sweep and Mop Floor

I'll update this post when I'm done on how long it took.

Update: The dryer is still going with the rugs and the oven cycle is still going, the trash cans are draining in the bathtub - but all the rest is completed and it took 1 hour and 45 minutes. Looks great! Here's an "after" photo:



Next: Dining Room Wednesday 2/8

Tradition

A family tradition is a gift from generation to generation. It is a way to preserve the past for the future. It requires someone being intentional about keeping the tradition alive. I would like to honor the generations before me who have kept this family tradition alive in our family by sharing a special family recipe!

This recipe is wonderfully versatile because with one dough you can make bread, rolls, and cinnamon rolls. The rolls are traditional at Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter. The cinnamon rolls are always served on Christmas morning. My husband’s favorite is the bread, which makes great sandwiches from leftover holiday fare!

My mom remembers her mom making these rolls in a yellow Pyrex mixing bowl. I remember her telling me how she and her sisters would “fight” over who got the middle cinnamon roll because it had the most goodies!

I remember my mom making this recipe in a yellow bowl as well and seeing the dough rise over the top in the refrigerator. Now the tradition includes making this recipe in the yellow bowl and we each have one.

We have been able to trace this recipe back for four generations. My Grandma got the recipe from her Aunt Louise who found the recipe in a newspaper. And, I intend to pass it on to my daughter for a fifth generation. I think it is so special to carry on this tradition and I am thankful for those before me who were intentional about keeping it alive.

Homemade Rolls and Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
2 pkgs. Yeast
2 beaten eggs
4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. sugar
2/3 c. melted Crisco (I use oil)
3/4 c. sugar
1 c. lukewarm water
10-11 c. flour
2 c. scalded milk

Soften yeast and dissolve 1 tsp. sugar in water; add milk (cooled to lukewarm), salt, ¾ c. sugar, and shortening. Add eggs and beat well. Add flour to make soft dough; let stand 10 minutes. Knead until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl (yellow one of course!); turn dough once, cover and refrigerate. Shape rolls into cloverleaf shapes and place in greased muffin tins, cover, and let rise until doubled. Bake at 400-425 for 15-20 minutes. Punch down unused dough and refrigerate.

For Cinnamon Rolls:
Make above dough. Then roll out dough to approximately 12”wide by 18-24” long. Spread butter over the dough, leaving a ½-1” edge with no toppings. Layer brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts generously over dough. Roll dough finishing with the bare edge. Cut slices about ¾-1” in width using dental floss. Place in round greased pan. Bake at 400-425 for 15-20 minutes.

Glaze: Mix powdered sugar and milk until of drizzling consistency. Drizzle and serve warm!

Rolls, cinnamon rolls, and bread can be frozen after baking. Reheat and serve. Add glaze to cinnamon rolls after thawing from the freezer and re-heating.

Anyone else have a special tradition or person you want to honor by sharing how they kept a tradition alive in your family?

Spring Cleaning

I have the spring cleaning bug! Our calendar starts getting busier in March and later, so I thought I'd better go ahead and tackle this now! I have assigned a date to each room and am going to try to get the entire portion done during Emily's nap time. I will be posting what I do in each room and updates along the way just in case any of you want to spring clean along with me! This will not be a time for me to organize, just do a deep cleaning. Also, I have worked around busy days on our schedule and allowed for days to have no rooms since I don't want to get burned out or way behind-feeling. Some of these things I do more regularly than once a year, but just want to do them again while I am at a big cleaning. Here is the schedule I have set:

Feb. 6: Kitchen
Feb. 8: Dining Room
Feb. 13: Laundry Room
Feb. 15: Living Room
Feb. 16: Entry Way
Feb. 21: Master Bedroom/Bath
Feb. 22: Hall Bath
Feb. 27: Emily's Room
Feb. 28: Den
Mar. 2: Porch Front/Back; Sidewalks and Driveway
Mar. 4: Yard: weeds, leaves, etc...
Mar. 6: Car

I have scheduled a yard sale for March 11 and after that will do the spare room as it is full of priced items at the moment! :)

The Journey

My Mom received a recent edition of the Mitford Grapevine and following is a portion of the letter from the author, Jan Karon.

"Gentle Reader:

Thanks for your warm embrace of Light From Heaven. Though 'Light' is the series' final novel, it has excited great interest in the first, At Home in Mitford, resulting in legions of new Mitford readers.

My sincerest welcome to any of you who're visiting this website for the first time. Writing the Mitford series was, for me, a richly rewarding and many-layered journey, and I hope it has been thus for you. I remember my great-aunt Maude who, when I was seven or eight years old, embarked on a journey to California. In those days, no one I knew traveled so far; indeed, my clan kept close to home (had to feed the chickens and horses, and, of course, slop the hogs). This trip of hers was so wondrous that she talked about it for years. Each time she came to visit us on the farm, she would tell us again about California. Who needed radio when we could listen to the indefatigable Aunt Maude?

So. Why don't we talk about our journey through the nine Mitford novels? Be assured we needn't go on and on for years. Just a couple of weeks will do, don't you think?

What did you learn, if anything, from this body of work? Many readers say they've read through the series several times. Did you ever do this? Why? Some critics say that Mitford isn't real, that people don't really live like that, or behave like that. What do you think? If you were encouraging someone to read the series, what would you say? In this series, you've 'seen' God at work in the lives of the characters. What is your take on the God you found in Mitford?

Please toss in any and all comments you feel moved to share, and thank you.

As we all launch out into a new year, I pray that it will be a bright one; indeed, the best year yet--for you and all those whom you cherish. I never got the hang of making serious resolutions, so let's just leave it at this: Draw close. Hold hands. Life is short. God is good.

Jan"

I have been wanting to respond in some way to this "Journey" and what I have so enjoyed about reading the Mitford books. But, time has gotten away and I just haven't done it and today when I followed the links to do so on her website - found it was a big bulletin board where I was basically lost.

So, I humbly submit my thoughts and memories from the journey here for the readers of the homespun heart. Thank you for indulging me!

My Journey to Mitford

I don't remember when I read the first book, what I initially thought, or where I even got the book. But, I will never forget so many things that I have learned from the wonderful and sometimes aggravating friends in Mitford.

Those in Mitford know how to appreciate the simple things in life. They create beautiful circumstances around themselves not only for themselves, but for others. They take a pot of flowers to a friend, surprise each other with a picnic, pop through the hedge with a pot of soup, or just sit in a favorite chair and read a comfortable book. These are the joys in life that so often go overlooked.

Reading and re-reading the Mitford books always draws me deeper into my faith and relationship with God. And, into a small community of people where simplicity and peacefulness of life seem to reign. The descriptions are so beautiful and inspiring - such as the candle-light midnight Christmas Eve service at Lord's Chapel or the ceiling at Fernbank.

In our family, we have adopted several quotes that are often repeated such as, "Consider it done!" And, I often think of the prayer that never fails and, "Philippians 4:13 for pete's sake."

Overall, when I think of Mitford - I think of a place that my heart yearns to live and experience. So, my Mom and I have a saying to each other of creating Mitford-like experiences where we are. How can I make choices that make life simpler and sweeter? How can I make someone else's day better by cheering them up, as so many do in Mitford?

I will continue to read these books again and again, because I am always drawn in, always encouraged, always inspired, and always feel At Home In Mitford.

Convenience!

I have discovered two wonderful conveniences that are FREE courtesy of the US Postal Service! Yes - each saves a trip and waiting in line...

When you are getting ready to go on vacation or be away, you can put your mail on hold from your home computer. Fill out this form at least 24 hours in advance and voila! They will also deliver all the collected mail on the date specified. When I'm getting ready to leave, it seems I never quite have time to make it to the Post Office so this is a great alternative.

The second thing is ordering stamps by mail. You can do this two ways: one is free, the other isn't. If you order them from their website, you have to pay shipping and handling. However, next time you are at the post office, ask for an envelope to order stamps by mail. This goes in your mail box with no stamp and the order is filled by your mail carrier and returned the next business day. They have a 24 hour turn around if it is during the week. If you put your order in on Friday, you will receive it on Monday. And, they always provide a new envelope with your order so you are ready to go next time!

These two things have saved me lots of time and trips to the Post Office - hope they help you too!

Cloth Diapers

I'm sorry to have another post about this - but I am so frustrated and getting discouraged with the whole cloth diaper thing after over a year of no problems.

Now, the diapers do not really smell in the pail - I washed them seven times to "strip" them and cleaned out the pail really good to start everything fresh. So that seems to be working.

The problem I am now having is that when I go to change Emily - the diaper smells so strong (when just wet) that I can hardly breathe. This is not an exaggeration.

The other problem is that after being back in cloth for less than 48 hours since I did all of the above - she is starting to get a little bit of rash. We have never had a problem with this and I am wondering what is starting this now?

I have not changed detergents, added anything different to the diaper pail (I don't add anything right now), or changed anything about my routine of washing them. The only different thing is that they were washed so many times recently.

Does anyone have any suggestions on what the problem is? Thanks for any help you can provide - my budget thanks you too because if this keeps up - I may consider switching to disposables (and I don't really want to).

My Weekend

It was a very nice weekend where I felt like I got a lot accomplished!

I helped at church with a New Mom's Brunch - by doing some decorating - which was a fun way to start my Saturday! And then did a bunch of chores at home.

A friend called with extra seats to our Women's Center (like a crisis pregnancy center) Fundraising Banquet - and I'd been interested in going, but it was pretty expensive. So, it worked out in the end that I was able to go! It was really great and I am glad I went.

The key note speaker was Janet Parshall and she did an excellent job presenting information about several issues in Washington DC right now relating to the sanctity of life. I learned a lot and was reminded again that our country as a whole does not value life.

Sunday brought church and a relaxing afternoon...hope you all had a nice weekend too!

From the Archives

Scanning through some photo files yesterday afternoon, I found some favorites I have never shared. Hope you enjoy the random sampling of photos!

Once in a while our neighbor brings us flowers that her florist friend cannot sell ~ I really enjoyed these pretty pink roses!

Ocean waves and foam - taken at Ormond Beach, Florida last Fall.

Taken at sunset one evening from a boat landing near our house.

An adorable little pumpkin from my Mom's garden!

Stairs inside the Hunting Island Beach Lighthouse.

At our Thanksgiving table - a simple votive.

"Blah"gging

Blah is what I feel about my blog this week - I can't seem to think of anything even remotely interesting to post here. Hmmm, blah is kind of how I've felt this week - maybe there is a connection. All I can say is that I am anxiously awaiting the end of the first trimester sickness! And, should be almost there.

As for blog inspiration, I have some Valentine's Day ideas swimming around that I want to share but am forcing myself to wait until Feb 1st hits the calendar.

I apologize to those of you who actually read this that it has been so boring this week!

Cookies and Milk for Emily

Enjoying a cookie!

Asking for "more".

Yummy, I like milk and cookies!

Humble Pie

I recently had a post regarding the price of tortillas at Wal-Mart. They did not raise the price of the name brand tortillas - I was apparently looking at the price for a different size package.

Regardless of my sometimes less than loving thoughts toward Wal-Mart - I should not have believed the worst about their business practices and especially wanted to correct my error.

Sizes

Ok, I've just figured out the 0-12 month clothing sizes and now I am curious about the "T" sizes for kids clothes. Since I shop ahead and clearances, I am looking at the bigger sizes for Emily now. So, here is what I can't figure out:

- Is a 2T the same as 24 months? Or does 2T come after that?
- Is a 4T the same as a 4? Or do the single numbers pick up after the "T" sizes?

Thanks for helping!

In My Oven

It is Saturday morning and everyone in my house is still sleeping! I love getting up and making something yummy for breakfast that is ready when others get up!

Here is what is in my oven right now:

New York Crumb Cake

Mix together:
1 1/2 c. flour
1/2 c. sugar
2 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 egg
1/2 c. milk
2 Tbsp. oil
2 tsp. vanilla

Mix and press into a greased 9x13 baking dish.

In a separate bowl mix together:
2 1/2 c. flour
1 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
2 sticks cold butter or margarine

Cut together until mixture resembles crumbs. Crumble over the top of the batter. Bake at 325 for 20-30 minutes or until cooked all the way through. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Recipe from: Martha Stewart

Apple Tree

I have always wanted to grow apples. I love canning apples: apple pie filling, applesauce, apple butter, I even made my own apple juice one year.

Anyway, I finally decided to try growing them. The Coastal South is not an ideal location for trying this. But, I had a coupon for a plant company and they have a lifetime guarantee to either give you a new plant or your money back if things do not work according to your satisfaction.

So, I decided - it really isn't that much of a risk. It is a tree that has five kinds of apples on one tree so that it self-pollinates the other types. Big help if you don't want to buy five apple trees!

I am not counting on getting any apples for the first several years - but it will be so hard to wait! I just hope that it survives and produces apples!

This article will be a big help - any other tips?

Homemade Staples

No, I haven't resorted to bending and forming my own staples for holding papers together! I'm talking about food staples!

Aside from the usual tips for saving on your grocery bill: clipping coupons, shopping sales, not buying convenience foods, etc... I also like to make some things from scratch. I know others of you do too, as I've been reading such posts on your blogs lately!

Two of my favorite recipes for these homemade food items are for Cream Soup Mix and Maple Syrup. I store both in the refrigerator in glass canning jars. Enjoy!

Maple Syrup

Combine in saucepan:
1 3/4 c. white sugar
1/4 c. brown sugar
1 c. water

Bring to a boil, cover, and cook one minute. Cool slightly.

Add:
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. maple flavoring

Cover saucepan for a few minutes as syrup cooks to melt down crystals; helps prevent syrup from crystallizing later in storage.

From: More With Less Cookbook


Cream Soup Mix

2 c. powdered milk
3/4 c. cornstarch
1/4 c. chicken bouillon
2 Tbsp. onion flakes
1 tsp. basil leaves
1 tsp. thyme, ground
1/2 tsp. pepper

Mix all ingredients in an airtight container. When you have a recipe that calls for cream of chicken soup, blend 1/3 c. of dry mixture with 1 1/4 c. cold water. Cook, stirring until thickened. Use as recipe requires.

From: Joan Nusbaum

From My Garden

I think Pansies are the happiest flowers! I wish I could personally deliver some to each of you today ~ hope you can enjoy them from here!

Diaper Cake!

I made this "cake" of diapers for my friend's baby shower scheduled for this Saturday! She is expecting her third baby and therefore has many of the items she already needs, so practical is the way to go for her!

But, I didn't want to just give her a gift bag with two packages of diapers in it. I wanted it to look cute and more fun! So, remembered receiving one of these myself and decided to try my hand at making one. It did take a little time, but wasn't too hard. The one I received had little rattles, spoons, etc... tied on, but I chose to tie on little cards with Bible verses about the blessings of children on them.

When I looked for directions on-line, I found that they were very different looking than the cake I had received, so I made this one from memory as best I could. Start with a cardboard tube or piece of a cardboard box taped into a circle. Layer diapers inside each other and go around and around. Tie the first diaper onto the cardboard base with ribbon and then tie around the entire layer with ribbon.

On this cake, I used two packages (48 each) of diapers and a little less than 6 yards of ribbon. I hope she likes it!

A Great Gift!

My Mom gave me this book for Christmas! It is so very good. Sunday afternoon, David built a fire in the fireplace for me, moved the rocking chair in front of it and while Emily was napping, I spent about an hour and a half of uninterrupted reading time! It was heavenly!

I have only read the first two chapters - but can tell this will be a book I'll enjoy for many years to come. It is part storybook, part cookbook, part how-to book, and lots of inspiration.

MaryJane Butters is an organic farmer, homemaker, and lover of all things simple and pure. There are sections in this book on sewing, gardening, cooking, friends, etc...

You can visit her web site (which is also full of info) by clicking here.

Can You Help?

Two questions for all you moms out there!

1. How do you teach a 14 month old to respect books and not tear them? I want her to be able to play with them because she loves books and likes to look at the pictures, feel the textures, etc... but, I do not want her to think it is acceptable to rip them to shreds.

2. Any suggestions for keeping the cloth diapers waiting to be washed from smelling? I have two bins (both with lids) that I keep for the diapers. The wet ones go into the larger bin and the dirty ones soak in water in the smaller bin. I wash them twice a week. Here is the problem, the wet ones really start to smell after about 24-36 hours. I've tried water to soak, bleach/water to soak (ruined two diapers and one cover that way) and am willing to try any other suggestions. I've even tried washing every other day. None of these options seems to be THE answer. I don't mind the cloth diapers and it is really working out very well - except for this problem.

Thanks for any help you can provide!

Submit A Name!

As we enter 2006, I am pleased to say that our family will be growing! We are expecting a baby in early August!

With Emily, we kept the name a secret and came up with an "alternate" and gender-neutral name to call her in the meantime so we had something to call the poor child! We called her "Moonbeam".

Well, the time is upon us to come up with another such name to call this baby and we are having a hard time thinking of something. So, can you help? Please submit any ideas! Thanks!

Broccoli Chicken Fettucini Alfredo

I have tried tons of homemade alfredo recipes - and not one has ever really turned out very well. I have finally found a mix made by McCormick that is very yummy and easy! I love making this for dinner!

1 bunch broccoli flowerets, cut into bites and steamed
1 pkg. McCormick Alfredo mix
1 c. milk and 3 T. butter for mix
1 chicken breast cut into chunks
Fettucini noodles

In a skillet, place a small amount of oil. Brown chunks of chicken and remove from pan. Meanwhile, boil water for pasta and prepare according to package directions. In the skillet, melt butter and stir in milk and alfredo mix. Stir well with whisk. Cook until thickened. Stir in broccoli, chicken, and drained fettucini. Serve!

Sneaky

Yesterday I did my monthly grocery shopping at Wal-Mart. One item I buy nearly every visit is tortillas. And this trip was no different.

But, what I found in the tortilla aisle was a bit different and, if you ask me, sneaky of Wal-Mart. I used to always buy the "Mission" tortillas for $1.56 for a package of 10. I noticed that they have come out with their own store brand of tortillas so I was checking the prices. They have raised the price of the "Mission" tortillas to $2.44 and made theirs 2/$3!

I did not want to buy the store brand merely on principle of them doing this, but why would I pay almost $1 more? And, *that* my friends, is why Wal-Mart has the reputation with me that they do.

Going to the doctor...

Somewhere I read about a mom who took her daughter to the doctor and took along her robe, so that when she needed to undress, she could be more comfortable waiting in her own robe.

I decided to give it a try myself - hating the paper covers they give you to "wear". It was great! My dr. did not mind and I was much more comfortable waiting. A little planning ahead can make the visit (or at least the waiting) more pleasant!

A Cute Little One!

Happy New Year from Emily!

Enjoying her red wagon - a

loving and special gift from Daddy for

the whole family!

A Thrill!

Oh, how I love Target clearance racks! Especially at our closest Target!

Now, those of you who have been with me very much know that I have been highly disappointed in the customer service I receive at this particular Target and though today was a good experience, overall they are still very lacking. But, here is the diamond in the rough. If you are willing to be the thorny customer who asks how much something is that is not marked, has no bar code, was on a clearance rack, and seems to be the only one in the store - you can usually get a good deal!

Today, my deals included a play grocery cart for Emily which I am planning to save for her birthday. I think I'll fill it with play food and dishes I got at a thrift store last summer! And, two boxes of "Making Memories" brand card making kits regularly hideously priced, purchased today for just $1 each because they were probably ready to get rid of me (and the clearance merchandise) ! By the way, if anyone reading this receives one of these card kits as a gift - try to forget you've read all of this! :)

I left excited about my deals and even though it is a pain to ask and I hate to be one of "those" customers, it is worth the effort and time to do it.

If you've ever been around my Mom or I for even a short time, you've probably overheard, "I just love Target clearance!".

Cookbook Arrival!

My free cookbook arrived this week! I wasn't expecting it until March! If you're interested, check out page 55 for my Broccoli Chicken Lasagna recipe! Fun!

Update: The ladies at Gooseberry Patch are always requesting new recipes and ideas. If you are interested in getting a free cookbook, submit your ideas and recipes and if chosen - you'll receive one!

Happy New Year!

Well, I am finally back after a two week absence! It gets so busy around the holidays - blogging is one thing that gets put aside.

But, we had a wonderful time in Colorado celebrating Christmas (no snow though) and all our travels went smoothly.

Now, I feel like I'm in a super clean mode after the holidays (usually am) and I keep telling myself it is too early for Spring Cleaning. But, I'd like to work on a few organizing projects anyway.

January is such a month of fresh starts it feels like - what is January to you?