Burlap Wreath

This year was full of crafts and home improvement projects for me.  That was actually my New Year's resolution.  I would say I went above and beyond...

Burlap Wreath

This was my first time making one of these.  I think it turned out really nice.  Nice enough to give away as a gift.  I won't say to whom I will be giving it just in case she reads this...

Supplies:
1 roll of burlap
1 wire wreath frame
2 sheets of red felt
3 decorative beads
Thin wire to assemble the flowers

First weave the burlap in and out of the wire frame.  I looked up some tutorials on YouTube until I found the one that I liked the best.  There are tons of them to choose from...

Next I cut 6 pedals for the flowers. Thread the pedals together and pull them tight.  Twist the wire to keep it together.  Once you have that finished, cut a piece of wire and thread the bead.  Stick the threaded bead in the center of the flower and attach the flower to the wreath.

There are different size wreath frames that you can buy.  This is the smaller one.  You may need to use 2 rolls of burlap if you decide to go with the larger frame.

I plan to do a few more posts before Christmas so keep checking...

Gingerbread Cookie Money Gift...

Last year I was trying to be creative and made this gift for my nephew.  He loved it!!!


I do not like giving gift cards because it limits where the gift can be spent.  I also do not like to just give money because that isn't very creative.  This was the perfect solution...
It ended up turning out so good that I posted it on Pinterest.  Since it got a lot of repins I thought I would share it on here too.  Just in time for Christmas...

If my little one will cooperate with me I will be posting a few more Christmas related items.
Time seems to be limited for me these days...

Pallet American Flag

I have so many projects that I have done that I would love to share with everyone but since I have very little time I have to share one at a time.  This is one project that I had wanted to do for a long time but just kept putting it off.  I thought it would have been slightly on the difficult level but was more toward the beginner level.  I did enlist my husband's help to remove the boards from the pallet but it is something that just about anyone can do themselves.  This is how I let him contribute to my projects even if he would rather not. lol

American Flag made from an old pallet...

There are a few things that I would have done differently.  Hind sight is 20/20...
First I would have made the blue section larger with bigger stars.  The other thing I would have done differently was go with a deeper red.  The red I used was more of an apple red.

The picture is pretty much self explanatory but I will give you a step by step to help out a little.
First remove the boards of the pallet and place them on a flat surface and connect them with a 1x4 on the two sides.  Leave a little space between the boards...
Next prime the entire surface (at least the entire front and edges).
Then take a pencil and mark where you want the stripes and the blue section.
I used stickers for the stars that I cut out with my cricut but you can also buy stars, stencil, or free hand them on.  Put the stars on first and then paint the blue area.  I used masking tape to mark the stripes so that they ran fairly straight.  The white area is just the primer.  I did not paint over that...
When you have finished painting the entire thing, take a piece of sandpaper and rough it up a little so that it looks aged.
You will need to seal it with some type of sealant.  I used clear Thompson's Water seal.  It is the one with the red label.
I suppose I should add that to hang it I attached a 1x4 to the top.  I screwed it on both ends to the other 1x4s.  That way you hang it without screwing directly to the house.
I decided to leave it on the house for the winter so we will see how it looks come spring.  Only time will tell...

Wreath Ornament

As mentioned in my previous post, I am sharing the wreath ornament that I made for the ornament exchange that I participated in.

I thought it turned out really cute but I am not sure it went over well.  Most all of the ornaments were store bought (which to me wasn't very special).  There were only two or three out of 27 that were homemade.  Though one store bought one I did like (which thankfully I got).  That was a metal star with bells hanging from it...

Wreath Ornament

Supplies:
1 solid round bangle bracelet (or something round and about that size)
Red and White tulle (I used what I had left over from the large wreath that I made.)
3 small red bells

Cut the tulle to the desired length.  Tie double knots around the bracelet.  When you have gone all the way around, take three equal lengths of tulle (2 red and 1 white) and braid them together.  I used a little ribbon to attach the bells to the braid but you could use thin wire or something similar.  I put the braid through the bracelet and tied it together at the end.  The top has a nice little poof at the end where the tulle isn't braided.  Sorry that isn't in the picture.  Sometimes I have a hard time getting just the right view.
These projects are a lot of fun!  I hope this encourages you to make some too.

Christmas Wreath

This project was a lot of fun.  It took a few hours but I think the finished product was well worth it.
Red and White Christmas Wreath

Supplies:
2 rolls of red tulle
2 rolls of while tulle
1 14" Styrofoam wreath
2 bells of your choice

The total cost of this project was around $18.00.
$3.00 for each roll of tulle (2.99 x 4)
$5.00 for the Styrofoam wreath
$1.00 for the bells (I bought them at goodwill so the cost will vary depending on where you purchase them.)

I cut the pieces of tulle about 2 feet long.  The number of pieces will vary depending on how full you want it.  I tied each piece on the wreath with a double knot, switching from red to white.  I pushed them close to each other so that it was full looking.  You can adjust the length of the tulle to what you like.  You can also trim it after if you don't like the way it looks.  If you do this, be careful.  If you cut them too short you will have to untie them and replace the pieces.  Once the wreath is as full as you would like it, you can work on the bells.  I used the tulle as the bell holder.  Simply take three lengths of tulle (I used 2 red and 1 white) and tie one end together with a knot.  Then braid the tulle and tie another knot at the finished end.  It really helps if you can get someone to hold the tulle while you are braiding it so that it is nice and tight.  Then, tie the ends together and you are finished.  I was thinking this would look good with some plastic candy canes tied to one side of the wreath instead of the bells but was unable to find any that didn't look too cheap or tacky. 
I made a miniature version of this which I gave away at an ornament exchange.  I thought it was really cute.  I will share that in another post...

Decorative Pine Cones

It's been a while since I have been able to post so I thought I would do a quick one.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving.  I know not everyone is from the U.S.A. but I hope it was still a wonderful day for you. I know I have so much to be thankful for and Thanksgiving is a good time to put it all up front for the world to know...

Today I am sharing a simple project that didn't cost me hardly anything and looks like I bought them.

Snow/ice covered pine cones...

These are simply pine cones that I found under a tree in my front yard.  I picked them up off the ground last year and put them in a bowl for decoration.  The longer they are let to dry out the more they spread open.  When I picked them up they were all closed.

I painted the pine cones with Modge Podge and sprinkled Epsom Salt on them.  I let them dry on a few paper plates and then gently shook off the excess salt.  That's it...

To add a little extra decor you can snip a few pine boughs and mingle them amongst the pine cones.  I did this and put them in a wire basket (Sorry I don't have a picture of that to share with you.). This makes a great fall and winter decoration.

Wine Cork Christmas Wreath

I have been saving my wine corks for over a year.  Doesn't look like many does it???  That is because I had over 9 months of no drinking. lol
For those of you that don't drink wine, you can purchase the corks at places like The Home Depot.  They are in the hardware department with the hard to find items.

I used 18 corks for this but you can use more if you have them. There are also 18 bells on here too.  You can get away with only using 17 if you don't put one where the ribbon is.

What you will need:
18 corks
18 bells
2 different gauge wire
Ribbon
Drill and small drill bit
Wire cutter and needle nose pliers

Start by drilling holes through all the corks.  Two holes in each cork.  Cut two similar lengths of wire.  One from each gauge.  The lengths depend on how many corks you plan to use.  Remember it is better to have too much wire than to cut it too short.  Thread the corks on the heavier gauge wire first and then put the thinner gauge wire through the other holes.  String a bell in between the corks (this is the one you use the thinner wire with).  I messed up the first time I made this and had to tear it all apart.  It is very important to use the heavy gauge wire.  Once I got mine all assembled it sagged and was more of an oval than a circle.  Once you have it all assembled, twist the wires and trim off any excess wire.  Place the ribbon where you have the wire twisted to cover it.  That is it.  Hang and enjoy!!!

Pepperoni Pizza Subs

I think I finally made the perfect homemade pizza subs.  I normally burn the bottoms or the tops and bottoms.  These were perfect!!!

Super simple and quick...

1 package of small Italian loaves
1 jar of pizza sauce (I used walmart brand)
Pepperoni
Mozzarella cheese (block not shredded)

I cut the loaves of bread in half and put pizza sauce on both halves.  Then I cut chunks of mozzarella cheese.  I placed the pepperoni on top of the cheese.  I don't recommend using the shredded cheese because it doesn't melt as well.  You could always shred the block of cheese if you want the cheese shredded...
Bake at 400 degree F. (in a preheated oven) for 10 minutes.  Turn it to broil and broil for an additional 3 or 4 minutes.  The broiling is just to crisp up the top so that the bottom doesn't get too dark.

Simple right???  Normally I wouldn't share something so easy but I just can't get over how perfect they were...
. 

Keepsake Ornaments

My daughter and I went to a ladies craft night this past weekend and it really inspired me to do some crafting.  I had planned on doing this a long time ago but sometimes you just need a little push to get you going.

This is my oldest son's graduation tassel.  I had it hanging in my jewelry box for years...

I just purchased a large clear plastic ornament and drilled a hole in the top to slide the top string of the tassel through.  When purchasing the ornament make sure that the opening is large enough to fit the year through.  At first I had a smaller ornament and went through all the steps of drilling the hole.  It didn't fit...  I was a bit bummed because I liked the smaller ornament better.  I even purchased some clear glass ornaments but the openings were way too small.  I am saving them to make some other projects.  I will be sure to share those when I get them done.

This one is for my youngest son.  I took his first (hospital) hat and the wrist bands and put them inside the ornament.  He had two little hats from the hospital.  I chose the thinnest one because the other one didn't want to fit inside the ornament.  I think I may just do this for all the kids.  It makes a great keepsake.

I purchased these ornaments at Wal-mart because it is the store that is closest to my home.  I am sure you could get them at Michael's, Hobby Lobby, or even Target.  They were only .88 each (no matter what size you want).  They even have ones that look like Christmas lights and other shapes as well.

I hope this inspires you!!!

Storage Tins

I was going through my basement a while ago, doing a little organizing, and came across these old popcorn tins.  I really hate throwing anything that could be useful away so I decided to do something with them.  I am using them in my laundry room so I had to pick colors that went with the theme...

These are the finished product.  I actually made one more too.  The one not showing is all red but I don't know what to use it for so it sits with no writing on it yet.

All I used were some old popcorn tins that you tend to get a Christmas time, sandpaper, and spray paint.  To make the letters I used my Cricut and designed what I wanted it to say with that.  You can also stencil on what you would like it to say.

One little tip when spray painting...  Always follow directions on the can.  It was too cold when I was trying to paint them and the paint bubbled.  I sprayed them in the garage because I didn't want the house to smell and then brought them inside to dry.  The house still smelled a little but not as much as it would if I had sprayed them inside in the first place.

I hope this inspires you to reuse something old and make it like new again...

Crockpot Italian Chicken

I made this awesome meal the other day.  When I say awesome, I mean AWESOME!!!  I just couldn't believe that something so easy was so yummy...

Crockpot Italian Chicken

Ingredients:
4 Chicken breast, thawed
1 Packet of Zesty Italian dressing mix
1 8 ounce cream cheese (softened)
2 cans (10 3/4 ounce) cream of chicken soup

Directions:
Cut chicken into strips or cubes; whichever you prefer.  Combine chicken with remaining ingredients.  I added the other ingredients to the crockpot first to make sure they were mixed completely.  The cream cheese will still be in chunks but that is fine for this recipe. If you want the sauce to be a thinner add a little bit of milk.  Cover and cook for 4 hours on low.  Remember to not lift the lid because it releases heat and increases cooking time.
When ready to serve...  Boil noodles of your choice and top with Italian chicken.  I made some Cheddar Bay biscuits to accompany this meal but you can add garlic toast, dinner rolls, or nothing at all.

Homemade Pinata

We go through several pinata's every year and buying them can get really expensive (around $15 to $20 each).  I originally started making this one for our Halloween party.  Since I didn't get it done in time I decided to finish it and turn it into a balloon so we have one for the next birthday party.

This was suppose to be the head of an alien.  We were going to paint it green and put glow in the dark paint on it.  That is why the picture below has glow in the dark paint and permanent markers in it.

All you need to make your own pinata is:
1 balloon
Flour
Water
Newspaper (torn into strips)
Paint

In a small bowl combine the flour and water to create a paste.  Blow up a balloon and find a bowl or something to prop it up with.  Wet the newspaper with the paste and put it all over the balloon.  It took me several days because I let it dry between layers.  Let it completely dry to the hardness that you want it.  I put a ton of newspaper on mine because I want the pinata to last through everyone getting a chance to swing at it come party time.  When it is the way you want it, paint it.  Cut a tiny hole in the top to attach a rope and cut a hole  to put the candy in.  That's it...  Really easy...

Several years ago I made the alien head and it turned out really good.  I wish I would have taken a picture.  I think the balloon one turned out good too.

Peanut Butter Brownie Cups

This is one recipe that you should print out and hold onto forever.
I originally got this recipe off of Pinterest but the link that was connected to it disappeared so I thought I would share it on here so everyone can make it.  I still recommend printing it off so that you have a hard copy though...

Peanut Butter Brownie Cups
Ingredients:
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon water
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup peanut butter chips plus about 1/3 cup more for garnishing
1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips plus 1/3 more for garnishing
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter




Instructions:
1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Spray 12 muffin tins with cooking spray or you can use muffin liners.  I have made it both ways and they turn out good either way.
2.  In a large microwave safe bowl, combine sugar, butter (I used margarine and it still turned out super yummy), and water.  Microwave on high for 1 minute or until the butter is melted.  Stir in 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips until melted.  Stir in egg and vanilla.  Add flour and baking soda, stirring until blended.  Allow to cool to room temperature.  Then, stir in 1/2 cup each of the peanut butter chips and semi sweet chocolate chips.  Spoon batter into muffin cups.
3.  Bake for 13 - 15 minutes or until top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out slightly wet.  Place pan on wire rack.  Centers of brownies will fall upon cooling.  If they do not fall, tap centers with the back of a teaspoon to make a hole.
4.  Place peanut butter in a small microwave safe bowl.  Microwave on high for 45 seconds, then stir.  While brownies are still hot, spoon about a tablespoon of peanut butter into the center of each brownie.  Top with semi sweet chips and peanut butter chips.  Cool completely in pan before attempting to remove. I place mine in the refrigerator for a little while to get them nice and cool.  They should pop right out when you use a knife to pry them up.

I have played with this recipe adding and subtracting chips etc...  It just depended on what I had in my pantry.    I do not have a tendency to carry unsalted butter in the house but margarine is readily available so I use that instead.  I have made this recipe with peanut butter chips and without.  As you can probably see from the picture, I did not add the peanut butter chips to this batch.  I have also added milk chocolate chips as well as semi sweet.  It is good no matter what way you make it...
Enjoy!!!

Laundry Detergent Storage

Several days ago I shared with you a recipe for homemade laundry detergent and mentioned that I was going to look around for a container to store it in.  I thought with all the cute glass containers that I have in this house there was bound to be at least one that I could use.  Well,  I didn't find one.  All the containers that I had didn't seal which is very important with this detergent.  So, I went shopping...

It didn't take me long to find something that would work great and looks so cute.  The first store I went into (just happens to be my 2nd favorite store) was Target and I found it right away.  I always look on the clearance shelves first.  This cute container was there with a price of around $10.00.  I thought that was a decent price considering all the other containers like that cost quite a bit more.  Since I brought my 4 year old with me, we had to do his favorite thing there.  I am one of those patient moms that lets my kid scan anything and everything his little heart desires (as long as no one else is waiting to scan something).  He found a Skylander clock to scan ($19.99 - which I didn't buy). and I let him scan my canister.  Normally Target is really good at keeping the clearance items priced correctly but this time, much to my excitement, it was priced incorrectly.  It was only about $5.00.  Yay for me!!!  The things I get excited about... lol

 It doesn't really go with the theme that I have in my laundry room but I don't care.  This is just too cute!!!
The theme that I use in my laundry room is patriotic (red, white, and blue).  I just knew you would want to know that. lol

The canister is kind of deep so I am able to put a measuring spoon right in with the detergent.

The container that I was originally looking at wasn't very big so I was thinking about how I was going to keep the measuring spoon with it so I didn't lose it.  I was going to tie a hook onto the lid with a ribbon or twine and hang the spoon right on that.  I had it all pictured in my head.

Someday, (when I remodel my laundry room) I will share all the little organizational tips and pictures I have for that room.  Until then I will just have to share other stuff...

TV Remote Organization

Seems like with so many remotes lying around the house that it would just make sense to put them all in one spot.  I know, not that easy.  Especially when you have children.
My remotes were always coming up missing and I finally got sick of it.  I tried having a basket on the table that housed all of them but I think it was just too easily accessible.  I say that because when my boys were really little they would pull everything off the tables and the remotes would all end up under the couches, tables, and even in other rooms.  So I came up with a super simple plan that ended up working wonderfully.

I simply hung a basket on the wall with a cute hook and made sure it was up high enough that only the big people could get it.  As the kids got a little older they became smart enough to get a kitchen chair/stool and get the remotes when they need them.  It kind of seems too simple but it really works.  I found a spot on the wall that it looked good and it has stayed there for years.  I think it was really harder to "train" my husband to put it back than anyone else.  He got the hang of it though...

I hope this simple idea helps.  I am one that will spend quite a bit of time surfing Pinterest and have found many cute/functional ideas there too.  If you have a few minutes type in "remote organization" into the search bar and all sorts of ideas pop up.

Remember that every little step helps with getting organized.  Good luck!!!

Message Station

Everyone should have a location in their home that is for messages, important papers, business cards, etc...  I thought I would share with you where that spot is in my home and show you what works for me.

* I started with two framed cork boards.  I bought these ones but you can make them if you have frames that you really like or if you just have some extras lying around that you want to use.
* Next I bought a magnetic dry erase board from Sam's Club.  They were very inexpensive there (only around $16.00 or so).  Since this board is also magnetic, I put a magnetic clip on the board that I clip the kids important papers too.  I used to have extra magnets on the board too but I found that the kids liked to color on them and then drop them on the floor so I moved them to the refrigerator.
* Then I hung a basket that I had that I wasn't using.  I hung it on a cute hook (which I also already had).  The basket holds all my dry erase markers and eraser.
* I finished the area off with the word "Messages".  I ordered this one through a company called Uppercase Living but you can make the letters yourself if you have a Cricut machine.  I did this in my pre-cricut days.  You can custom order just about anything from them.  You can pick colors, font, and sizes...

This area is actually a multi-use area in our home.  My boys enjoy drawing pictures and writing letters and numbers (they are little still).  I love it because they will sit on the stools that I have in my kitchen and draw for hours.  The best part for me is that there are no messy papers lying around when they are done.

Sesame Chicken

I am always trying new recipes and came across this one.  And...  I love it!!!

Sesame Chicken
Ingredients:
3 large chicken breast, cubed
1 cup honey
1/2 cup brown sugar
4 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons garlic powder
Sesame seeds, to taste
4 cups brown rice


Directions:
1.  Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
2.  Place chicken in a shallow baking dish.  In a small bowl combine the honey, brown sugar, soy  sauce, and garlic powder.  Stir.
3.  Pour the sauce over the chicken.  Stir a little to coat the chicken. 
4.  Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
5.  After 1 hour remove foil, sprinkle the chicken with the sesame seeds, and bake for an additional 30 minutes uncovered.
6.  Prepare the rice and serve immediately.
There will be a lot of liquid in the pan with the chicken.  You can pour the liquid over the rice to give it more flavor.  It served 6 but everyone wanted more so I recommend making as much as you can.  All together it takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to make.  Most of that is baking time though.  Very easy dish to make...

Homemade Laundry Detergent

I made it!!!  Took me all of 10 minutes...

Homemade Laundry Soap
This contains the same ingredients as the liquid soap but you don't have to use the water to dissolve the soap,then add more water, stir, pour into milk jugs, and add more water.  Plus the liquid version has to set up over night.  This one is ready to go.  The only thing with the powdered is that you have to use warm/hot water when washing your clothes.  Either that or dissolve it into a 1/4 cup of warm water prior to using.  Only time will tell which one I will like better...


Ingredients:
1 cup Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda
1 cup Borax
1 bar of Ivory or Fels-Naptha (Purex) soap

Grate the bar soap into tiny pieces.  Mix with the soda and borax and it's ready to go.  For HE washers you only use 2 tablespoons per load.  Double it for regular washing machines.
I think now I will scour the house for a cute container that seals tight.  I'm sure I have one somewhere...

Buffalo Chicken Casserole

Happy Veteran's Day!!!
I would like to start out by saying thank you to all the Veterans.  I want to let everyone that has served or is still serving know that I appreciate all you have done for our country, not just today but every day.
Now, on to the recipe...
I originally pinned this recipe off Pinterest but I must say, it needed a bit of tweaking.  This casserole is great for a family that loves buffalo chicken...

Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
1 1/2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into small strips
1/3 cup Frank's Red Hot Sauce
5 cups grated potatoes
1 cup ranch dressing
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can of cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup Panko



Directions:
1.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.  Spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2.  Combine the chicken in a bowl with the hot sauce.  I recommend letting the chicken marinade in the sauce for a few hours (if you have the time).  I didn't do it and there wasn't that much flavor in the chicken.
3.  Grate the potatoes. You can also use store bought grated potatoes.  This step is a little time consuming so if you are short on time I recommend going that route.  Once the potatoes are grated, pat off as much excess moisture as you can with a paper towel.
4.  Spoon the chicken and sauce into the baking dish in a single layer.
5.  Using the same bowl, combine the potatoes with the ranch, soup, and the cheese.  Spread over the chicken.
6.  Sprinkle the Panko evenly over the potatoes.  This is another step that I would change.  Instead of using the Panko, I would just use Italian Style Bread Crumbs (unbranded is fine).  I found that the Panko was too bland.
7.  Cover tightly with aluminum foil.  Bake for 45 minutes.  Remove foil and bake for another 30-45 minutes.  Or, until potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked completely.  The bread crumbs should be a little browner than it shows in my picture.  I didn't bake mine as long and the potatoes were a little crunchy.  Let the casserole sit for a little bit before serving to absorb some of the moisture.

Keep following...
I will be making powered laundry detergent today and will post how that turns out.  I have never used the powdered kind, only the liquid.  The liquid takes up a lot of storage space so I am ready for a change.  Many of family and friends have used the powered kind and they love it.  I am sure I will too...

No Sew Tutu

Just wanted to tell everyone HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!
One of my favorite holidays ever...



Thought I would share with you the costume my daughter and I made last Friday night.  Took a few hours but it was worth it.
She is so proud of her tutu.

She added a superman shirt to it and became Super Girl.

She tried to convince me that she will wear it again. Since we used red, white, and blue she is planning on wearing it for the 4th of July. lol

This is all we used.  Well, kind of...
I did end up going back to Walmart to purchase three more rolls of tulle.  So, our project included:
2 rolls of blue
2 rolls of red
2 rolls of white
The tulle was $2.99 a roll and the elastic was about $1.50.
Ended up not being the cheapest costume but we had a lot of fun making it.
I sewed the elastic together instead of putting a knot in it because it was wider elastic.  The rest was all no-sew.  We measured how long we wanted the tutu and then doubled the tulle.  We put all three colors together and then tied it around the elastic.  If you are making it for a little girl it won't take as much tulle...

If any of you are heading out trick-or-treating tonight stay safe and have fun.

Halloween Party Ideas

This weekend I put together a Halloween party for the kids (and a few adults too).  I have to say, it was a great success!!!  I thought I would share a few picture of the food items that I had for everyone to enjoy.  I got my inspiration off of Pinterest but I am including how to make them along with the pictures.  You can add/change anything you want if you decide to make any of it.  I improvised a little...

The Puking Pumpkin

One smaller pie pumpkin in whatever shape you prefer (clean it off good, carve, and gut it out)
I used 4 avocados (double batch)
2 packets of guacamole mix
There are different brands of guacamole mix that you can buy.  I've used two different kinds and I didn't really see a difference in flavor.  When making it, don't make it too far in advance because it will start to turn color.  I made this one about a half hour before serving.

Kitty Litter Cake

1 box German Chocolate Cake mix
1 box of white cake mix
1 box of vanilla instant pudding
A handful of Tootsie Rolls
1 package of vanilla cookie (like Oreo but not chocolate flavored)
Green food coloring
Make cake mixes according to packages.  Break them both up into little pieces.  Mix pudding according to package directions and let set up.  Crush cookies into tiny pieces (reserve about 1/4 cup of cookie crumbs to mix with a few drops of food coloring).  In a NEW kitty litter tray combine the cake, cookies, and pudding.  Soften the tootsie rolls up in the microwave for a few seconds to soften.  Form into kitty "poop".  Try to stick some of the "poop" within the cake too.  Place the rest of the "Poop"  on the top with some coming over the edge for good effect.  Sprinkle the remaining cookies on top of the cake.

Eye Ball Cupcakes

1 package of cake mix
Cupcake tin and liners
2 cans of white frosting (We like lots of frosting but you can probably use just one can)
Gumballs or jawbreakers
M&M's ( I used orange and brown since I was unable to find any black)
1 tube of red frosting (fine tip)
It is pretty much self explanatory.  I let me daughter make these and I think she did a pretty great job.

Spider Eggs

1 dozen eggs

Sweet Relish and Mayo (to your taste)

1 can of small black olives (I used medium and I felt they were too big and a little hard to work with.)

Boil the eggs, peel, and divide into egg tray.  Combine the egg yolks, sweet relish, and mayonnaise together in a bowl.  Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture into the eggs.  Cut olives in half.  Use one half for the body and the the other half into small pieces for the legs.  Assemble as shown in the picture.  Even though they were really cute, I have to admit that most people took the olives off before eating them. That was okay though because I got a picture and they turned out cute!!!  Isn't that what matters. lol

I hope this inspires you...

Have a happy Halloween!!!

 

 

 

Halloween Spider Wreath

With Halloween so close I thought it was a perfect time to complete a quick little project.  I decided on making a wreath for the door.  At first I was going to make it with bats but when I saw these neat spiders, I thought that was a better choice.  This is the kind of project that anyone can do and costs less than $15.00...
All you need is:
14" foam wreath
Burlap (I used the wired ribbon type to make it easier)
Medium size spiders
Push pins
Hot glue

I purchased everything I needed at Wal-mart but I am sure you could get it cheaper somewhere else.
Foam wreath - $4.47
Burlap - $5.97
Spiders - $2.27
Wrap the foam wreath with burlap (overlapping the edges).  Continue all the way around until the ends meet.  This is where you could use the push pins if you need to.  I didn't really need them until the end.  I only used them to hold the ribbon in place until I was able to hot glue it.  Once the wreath was completely covered I cut it and glued it.  I then cut another piece of burlap and used that to hang it.  I glued it to the wreath so that it would stay in place and tied a neat little knot to add some character. Then I glued the spiders to the wreath.  I chose to only put them on part of the wreath so it looked like they were climbing up it.  When the glue was set, I hung it up.  I actually put it on my front door (not pictured there).  This is something that would even look good hanging on a wall.  I hope this gives you a fun and easy project to do.
Have a safe and fun Halloween!!!

Pantry Door Organization

I thought I would share something a little different today.
This is my pantry door.  As you can see, it is one of those louvered style ones.  That made it a little more difficult to utilize the space.  I was thinking about using those over the door organizers but I didn't want it to show when I had the door closed.
This was the perfect excuse to head to Ikea.  I love Ikea!!!  Since I tend to spend a lot of money there, I really have to find a way to justify a trip there.  Plus, it is over three hours away so it ends up being an all day trip.
This is what I did:
At the top I inserted 4 little hooks and bought some chain.  I used the small chain that you use to hang plants.  You can purchase it by the foot at some stores but I just bought a little package of it at Wal-mart.  I only used 4 of the hooks because I wanted to make sure there was room between them so that the items I hung on them would hang freely.  It has freed up so much space in my kitchen drawers.  I have cookie cutters, potato masher, crock pot spoons, grater, an apple corer/slicer, and my pancake molds.  You can hang just about anything on them...
Next is where Ikea comes in.  I purchased two of the smaller Fintorp rails ($8.99 each), three packages of the smaller hooks that go on the rail ($2.99 for a pack of 5), one wire basket with handle ($12.99), and six cutlery buckets (I bought the cheaper ones @ $3.99 each).  You can use any combination you want.  I just felt that this combination worked best for me.
Between the Fintorp rails I have two small wooden spice racks.  There is a section of wood that separates the louvers so they worked perfect.  I got the little racks from the Home Depot during one of their kids workshops.  They were free!!!  If you aren't familiar with the kids workshops, they are held the first Saturday of every month.  You just show up sometime between 9am and noon.  Fill out a little paper with your name and the kids names and ages and they give you an apron for the kids and a project.  Every month is different so it makes for a nice activity for the kids.
I am thinking I could even fit one more rail near the bottom with more buckets.  The buckets are great for holding snacks, boxtops for education, bag clips, etc...  I am thinking that another trip to Ikea may be in the near future. :)
I will be adding different organizational tips as the days go on.  That is one of my favorite things to do (organize)...

Cajun Parmesan Potatoes with Bacon

Cajun Parmesan Potatoes with Bacon

I know this doesn't look special but it tastes so good.  And, it is super easy to make...

Ingredients
3 or 4 potatoes diced (more or less depending how many you want)
Cajun seasoning
Season salt
Garlic Powder
Pepper
Parmesan cheese
Bacon


Directions
Peel and dice potatoes.  Set aside.  I put them in a bowl of cold water until I am ready for them.  In a large skillet, fry bacon.  Reserve the bacon grease to fry the potatoes in.  You can use margarine or olive oil but the bacon grease gives it more flavor and doesn't dry the potatoes out.  Crumble the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.  In the same skillet, fry the potatoes until they are the tenderness you desire.  Add all seasoning to your liking.  I found that you have to add quite a bit of the cajun seasoning if you want it to be a little hot.  When the potatoes are fully cooked add the bacon and the parmesan cheese.  That's it!!!
I told you it was super easy.  This is one of my go to meals when I don't know what else to make.  Or, when I am feeling a little lazy. lol
 

Homemade Pizza Rolls

Homemade Pizza Rolls...
I decided to use up some of the items that I already had in my home to make dinner tonight.  What a good decision!!!
This is really one of the simplest meals I have made in a long time.  At least that did not come out of a pizza box...  I only made 20 of these but should have made tons more.  Good thing several of my kids were not home tonight to help eat them.

 




Ingredients
2 rolls of buttermilk biscuits (10 count each)
40 pepperoni
20 chunks of mozzarella cheese 
Real Crumbled bacon (optional)
1 egg
Italian seasoning
Garlic Powder
Parmesan cheese
1 jar of pizza sauce (or Ranch)

Directions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Slice at least 20 chunks of mozzarella cheese (you can use a different type if you prefer).  Flatten each biscuit.  Working with one at a time.  Place two slices of pepperoni and one chunk of cheese on each biscuit.  I stacked them so that the cheese was sandwiched between the pepperoni.  This is the step that you could substitute the bacon for the pepperoni.  I made a few that contained 1 pepperoni and a little bacon together.  Fold the biscuit so that each edge over laps.
Place the biscuit so that the folded edge is facing down on the pan.  I used a baking stone to bake mine but you can also use a 9x13 greased pan.  Continue with the remaining biscuits.
In a small bowl beat the egg.  Brush the beaten egg onto the tops of the biscuits.  Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese.
Place in preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes or until tops of biscuits are golden brown.
Serve with pizza sauce (or ranch).




I personally recommend using the ranch if you put bacon in them.  There is just something about bacon and ranch together. Yum!!!
I hope everyone that makes this recipe enjoys it as much as my family and I did.

Zucchini Brownies

Today I made some super yummy brownies!!!
When I found this recipe I did not think I would like it because I really do not like chocolate cake.  I even scrape the frosting off of the cake and eat just the frosting.  That is how much I do not like chocolate cake...
But I can't seem to get enough of these.  OK, I can eat two pieces max without having chocolate overload.  But then I come back later for more. lol
I almost forgot to mention the best part.  Well maybe not the best, but a good part.
IT'S EGG FREE!!!

Doesn't it just look so moist and chocolatey???
I got this recipe off of www.allrecipes.com.  Originally posted from someone named Marian.  I wish I would have come up with this recipe but nope.  So, I had better give credit where credit is due...

Zucchini Brownies

 Ingredients
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups shredded zucchini ( I use one medium size zucchini)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts ( Optional- I left this out because I do not care for them)

6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup margarine
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).  Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.  I found a glass pan works the best.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the oil, sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla until well blended.  Combine the four, 1/2 cup cocoa, baking soda, and salt;  stir into the sugar mixture.  Fold in the zucchini and walnuts (optional).  Spread evenly into the prepared pan. 
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes in the preheated oven, until brownies spring back when gently touched.  I insert a cake tester in the center to see if it comes out clean.  To make the frosting, melt together the 6 tablespoons of cocoa and margarine; set aside to cool.  In a medium bowl, blend together the confectioners' sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Stir in the cocoa mixture.  Spread over cooled brownies before serving.

Though I am not promoting the site that I got this recipe from I do recommend it to anyone who has a few minutes to browse.  I have found so many good recipes off there...
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do...

Little steps

I thought today was going to be a super awesome crafty day for me but I was sadly mistaken...

I spent so much time sitting at the computer trying to do updates and downloads that my morning just flew by. I was able to transfer over a thousand pictures/videos onto my computer which allowed me to clear them off my phone. I have been wanting to do that for a long time so I suppose you could say it was a semi-productive day. Plus, I downloaded the most recent version of iTunes onto my computer. I was putting that off too.

Now to get the laundry folded and taken care of before the kids get off the bus. I never accomplish anything once they arrive home so I better get to it now.

It goes to show, just because you can't see what I have accomplished it does not mean that I haven't been productive.😊

First time posting...

Well, I finally did it!!!
I finally created a blog.  I can't wait to post all sorts of stuff.  Kind of like an outlet for me.  Somewhere to post all the things that I do that I want to share with those that like to see what I am up to without having to post everything on Facebook so those that don't want to see it won't.
I am sure I will get better at this as I use it more.  So, if there is anyone looking at this, please be patient with me and don't stop looking just because I am boring.