Supermommies

2011-12-13T18:57:00.000-08:00

I'm having a baby girl, and I am so excited!! What are some of your favorite baby girl crafts! I want to go all out because I'm pretty sure this is my last. Although at the ultrasound Jaren said, "are you sure it's a girl? What percentage could it still be a boy?" Sorry honey it's for sure a girl to which he said....we'll just have another! What....I'm not convinced. 4 girls and a boy will have to do!

God's Work

2010-07-02T08:47:00.000-07:00

My favorite Boxed Brownies

2010-05-23T09:44:00.001-07:00

Well, this little box has never let me down! Ghirardelli Chocolate Triple Chocolate Semi-Sweet Milk, ... You can buy it a costco and it comes with I think 4 mixes inside!!! Try it, love it, crave it... because I do!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T20:23:00.000-07:00

Brownie Mix Improvements

2010-03-29T16:03:00.001-07:00

All right, friends. I have a box of brownie mix in my cupboard. I so rarely get to eat treats at my house [insert snort] that I want to make this brownie mix really count. Every time I make brownies, they never meet my expectations. I want them to look and taste like they do in the picture on the box, dang it! I want them to be fudgelicious, but they're not. I want them to be moist, but they're not. I want them to be tall, but they're not. I want them to be rich, but they're not. When I make them, they're rather bland, crusty and hard around the edges, and lame. I've experimented in the past with adding chocolate chips to the batter. The brownies tend to end up looking like chocolate sludge, which, of course, I'll eat straight out of the pan with a fork if someone twists my arm [pffsh!], but I'm not inclined to serve it to my friends like that. I've had brownies before that had, I think, a chocolate bar baked on the bottom of the pan. It was amazing. I've had brownies with frostings on the top that were delicious. I've heard of brownies that have candy bars chopped up and thrown in, but I've only ever dreamed of eating one. What do you supermommies do to make boring brownies super? I'm in need of a major brownie makeover.

the way to a man's heart

2010-01-14T15:35:00.000-08:00

This is the recipe for the salad:

SPINACH SALAD

2 bunches of spinach or spring green mix (torn into bite size pieces)
1 head of lettuce (torn into bite size pieces)
1 purple onion (sliced)
3/4 lb. fresh mushrooms (sliced)
3/4 lb. Swiss cheese (grated)
1 C drained cottage cheese
1/2 C crumbled bacon
sugared almonds
mandarin oranges
crasins
sliced strawberries
croutons

Toss all ingredients together (except onions and strawberries). Use sliced onions and strawberries as a garnish. Top with following dressing immediately before serving.

DRESSING

3/4 tsp poppy seeds
3/4 C oil
3/4 tsp grated onion
1/3 tsp mustard
1/2 C white vinegar
1/3 CThis is the recipe for the salad:

Awesome Valentine's Gift Idea

2010-01-13T20:28:00.000-08:00

So I think this is such a great idea for a Valentine's gift for our husbands.

Check out this link.

I'm actually giving one to each of my kids instead of my husband, but only because I am working on a different book to celebrate our upcoming ten year anniversary. There are lots of cute templates that you can use as is or customize them or you can design your own from scratch. Email me if you are interested at alysia@publishyourlegacy.com and you can check out my website to see more cool products. www.publishyourlegacy.com

Ode to Peanut Butter and Chocolate: The Scotcheroo!

2010-01-06T15:48:00.000-08:00

Melt together on the stove:
1 cup Karo syrup
1 cup sugar
1 cup peanut butter
Pour and mix into:
6 cups Rice Crispies
Place in greased dish.
Melt together:
1 bag milk chocolate chips
1 bag butterscotch chips
Spread over Rice Crispies. Cool, then cut.

Great gift idea

2009-12-08T15:28:00.000-08:00

Britney got me one of these adorable pendants and I love it. My mom loved it too so I got her one for Christmas. I just think it's a fun, unique and inexpensive gift. Check out her blog with pictures of all her cute products.

Free Christmas Cards

2009-11-13T10:52:00.001-08:00

You know how much I love a good deal and it doesn't get better than free.

Here's a deal for 50 free photo cards with free shipping!

http://www.pinchingyourpennies.com/forums/showthread.php?t=135382

I just ordered mine...

School Halloween Party Ideas?

2009-10-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

I'm one of the parents helping plan Kendall's school Halloween Party. We're supposed to come up with 4 games or activities and I can't think of any.

Any ideas or suggestions? I know you ladies are creative!!

THANKS!!

This is a great kids learning site!

2009-09-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

Sevrie and Coral LOVE playing on this web site. I like it too because they can work through it with out my help, leaving me time to clean;-).

Enjoy!

www.starfall.com/

Halloween deals

2009-09-08T05:59:00.001-07:00

Every day buycostumes.com has a 5 under 5 deal where they offer 5 different things for less than 5 dollars each. Some of them are really good deals. I doubt I'll get any to use as halloween costumes but I'm always looking for cheap dress up clothes for the kids. Here's the link.

http://www.buycostumes.com/pages/productgridview/5Under5.aspx?REF=AFC-5under5&AID=10548936&PID=1495814

Baby Steals

2009-08-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

For anyone who does not regularly check the site babysteals.com, you should start now. Each morning at 9 am MST a new item is available at a great discount. It's good baby and maternity stuff, but it sells out fast. Check it out!

Oreo Truffles

2009-08-12T08:26:00.000-07:00

Easy and yummy and fun for kids to help with. I got the recipe from Bakerella and mine are on my blog here.

ENJOY!

Back to school traditions?

2009-07-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

Even though she's getting more used to the idea of homeschooling, Kendall is still a little bummed that come fall she won't be going to the school near us for kindergarten. I am looking for ideas of fun things we could do on the first day of school to make it really special for her. Do any of you have traditions for the first day school? I want to do something when the public school starts, like go see a movie or go to the park, things we wouldn't be able to do if she were in school then. And then I want her first official day of homeschool to be special too.

I saw a few things on a message board like making a schultute and taking pictures.

My favorite idea was to get doughnuts on the morning that public school starts and then drive by the school, roll down the windows, and yell, "Suckas!!!" :) I'm so going to do that one. :)

Summer Schedule

2009-07-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

I wish I had this doormat.

Only mine would say "last month" instead.

We just got back in town, the house is a mess and the kids are driving each other crazy. Do any of you stick to a schedule for the kids to keep peace and order in your home? It's way to hot to play outside here so that limits us to mostly indoor activities. I would like to keep TV watching to a minimum but sometimes it seems to be the only way to stop the bugging/screaming cycle. Any suggestions?

Spain

2009-06-29T08:50:00.000-07:00

If anyone wants to keep up with what we will be doing for the next six months in Spain, here's our Spain Blog. I am going to post some recipes I want to try while we are living there.

Doll pillow and quilt

2009-06-25T16:16:00.000-07:00

This is a cute "how to" project to go with your little sewn apple doll, for your special little girl! I made some for my Clara & Vivy & they love them! Happy sewing!

follow this link for step by step instructions!!

http://crazymomquilts.blogspot.com/2008/12/doll-bedding-tutorial.html

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEPHANIE!!

2009-06-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone took care of your today, I don't know anyone who deserves some pampering more than you. We are so excited to see you all and I hope you know how much we all love you.

Happy 30th!!! I hope it was a happy day.

Black Apple Dolls

2009-06-10T15:54:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine introduced me to these dolls, and since I've been wanting to make dolls for my girls, I had to give them a try. The template and instructions are found on Martha Stewart, and you can see various styles and such on the Black Apple website.

I thought they were pretty easy to make, especially since I have so many calico prints to use from various quilting projects. I just had to pick up some muslin and felt. It probably took me 90 minutes to make one doll. I've been thinking that if I were crazy, it would be fun to make enough dolls to decorate a Christmas tree with. We'll see how crafty I'm feeling!

Almost one year

2009-06-01T14:21:00.001-07:00

I can't believe my baby is growing so fast, he will be 1 on the 29th...AGHHHH! I just wanted to say thanks to all who post, I love all the past advise and look forward to the future posts!

Family schedules and routines

2009-05-18T07:09:00.000-07:00

I thrive on routine. I was wondering what everyone's cleaning, errand, life schedules and routines were. We used to do a big clean every saturday and then just keep the house picked up the rest of the week and do dishes and laundry as needed. When Kendall was born and I became an official stay at home mom I would deep clean one section of the house each day- laundry monday, dust on tuesday, bathrooms on wed. etc.- and still try to keep things picked up. I've fallen off the deep clean each week bandwagon lately and want to get back on in a way that meshes well with taking care of two kids.

So what are your schedules like? Does anyone do the fly lady route? Any tips or suggestions?

Really, are you sure?

2009-05-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

OK here it goes, this a vent about myself.....

so after a long day of not showering, trying to clean my house, taking a nap and then a trip to the grocery store, I was waiting in line at "the Walmart", as my nephew says, in the pharmacy department to get some allergy medicine... yes I had allergies too that day, and the line was taking for-ev-er. I was getting super impatient, and started just looking around and getting irritated that only one register was open. Then, it became my turn, YEAH!!, and of course the medicine I needed had to be put in by a pharmacist, of course, anyways, so here I am, ready to scream..... and then the lady next to me says " excuse me, you have the best complexion". I think I said thank you, but I was TOO in shock to even blink.... I convinced myself she had to be joking... I mean here I am having a normal day with no makeup and hair slapped in a pony( a very small one) and she had the nerve to compliment me... yeah right....

So here's my vent:

why couldn't I have just taken the compliment and honestly say "thanks!!" and then possibly say something nice back? Why did I get defensive and convince myself she was insane?

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T12:35:00.001-07:00

Just want to say Happy Mother's Day to all you spectacular mother's out there! Thanks for all the great advice and comments!

A New Treat

2009-05-09T13:54:00.000-07:00

Has anyone heard of Bakerella? Maybe everyone has and I'm way out of the loop! But I tried these cakes pops/bites last night and they were awesome! If you use a good cake recipe and a good homemade cream cheese frosting ... delicious! There's a store called Sweet Tooth Fairy here in Utah that sells cake bites and I always wanted to know how she did it. Well look no further ladies... Great for any occasion.

Good Morning Mommy, I love you!

2009-05-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

My son is 10 months old and maybe it's because I'm his mom, the cutest baby ever. This morning is my example of why! We had a rough night last night, (he still doesn't sleep all the way through the night, but I have been getting 6 hours in a row) He was up 3 times between 12 and 6 am.... yuck! Then this morning I hear him making the cutest noises in his crib, so I peek to see this cute little boy. He is all smiles and reaches up for his mom with Blankey in one hand and Paci in mouth, you could see the big grin past the paci, I give him a good morning squeeze which usually make my horrible nights sleep all worth it,

WHEN......

I smell it, I feel it, and it stinks! That's right ladies BLOW OUT! Up the back, out the legs, you name it! He was so proud of himself, I was trying to not get it everywhere, it was almost up to mid back, so as I was trying to not make him swim in it, but he was kicking and twisting, and of course his new favorite, love to check with his hand to make sure all privates are there and accounted for!

AAHHHH!!!

Well, that's how my morning started, and yet I love him still! Hope you have a great day!

Swine Flu Paranoia!

2009-04-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

So, I officially hate pigs. What is your take on the Swine Flu Outbreak that is taking over our media outlets and our minds? My daughter has a weak immune system (as some of you know or don't know we were in the hospital for 3 weeks in Dec.08 and Jan 09, she had a MRSA pneumonia). She gets whatever is out there first. I am really worried that she will contract this virus if it isn't contained. I know that viruses can't be treated by antibiotics, I do know that the Tamiflu is what they are using to fight this and that there is no vaccine yet. What I am interested in is this...

#1 Should I be as worried as I am?

#2 Is the hype justified?

Maybe I just need reassurance from my peers!

Happy Earth Day

2009-04-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

I would like to live a little greener. Who has some easy tips to get started?

Princess Party

2009-04-04T16:16:00.000-07:00

The party was fun and Kendall's all ready to plan next year's big event. Daddy took her to the salon this morning for an official princess updo and then I did her makeup when she got home. When each girl arrived I did their makeup too. For games we played Kiss the Frog Prince (like pin the tail on the donkey but with lips and a big picture of a frog with a crown), pass the parcel, and we slayed a dragon pinata. Actually Dave slayed it and about slayed the kitchen in the process.

The kids were all really cute and I think they had fun.

Ideas for a Cry Baby

2009-03-28T18:48:00.000-07:00

So my second oldest daughter, who is two-and-a-half, is a big cry baby. Her solution to everything is to cry. Cry, cry, cry. I tell her to sit at the table; she cries. She can't get her sock off; she cries. Her baby sister takes her toy; she cries. I tell her the milk is all gone; she cries. Her older sister tells her to do anything; she cries. It's not her turn yet; she cries. It's time to pick up toys; she cries. I remove a fork from her hand; she cries. She has to take one bite of her food; she cries. You get the idea. She cries, she cries, she cries. And it's not like she whimpers. She cries like someone chewed off her arm. I have tried a variety of tactics to get her to stop this behavior. I've ignored it. I've had her stand in the corner. I've tried to teach her to use her words. I've had her repeat whatever it was that made her cry until she does it without crying. I've cried with her. I've encouraged her to cry louder (as if she could!), for reverse psychology's sake. I've sprayed water on her face. This one is by far the most effective because it's startling and she immediately forgets what all the fuss was about, but it's hard for me to carry the spray bottle everywhere. And I'm mildly opposed to treating her like a cat. Any other ideas? I'm afraid of what she'll end up like at school, or at a music lesson, or on a sports team, when someone asks her to do something, she struggles, and then the tears flow, as if that's the solution. Any ideas on how to teach her to stop this behavior?

Fairytale party ideas?

2009-03-20T15:21:00.000-07:00

We're doing a fairytale party for Kendall's birthday in two weeks and I need some ideas. If everyone comes that's invited plus Kendall and Gage- we'll have 5 boys and 5 girls altogether. Any thoughts on food, time of day, length of party, games, prizes?

I want all the kids to come dressed as some kind of fairytale character- princess, knight, fairy, dragon- that sort of thing. I'm going to do some face painting for any kids that want to and we'll do cupcakes for cake. I wanted to do some kind of crafty thing- like make ribbon wands, but am having a hard time finding something gender neutral.

Oh Tara, how do you play pass the parcel? I remember that from Emma's birthday and Kendall talked about it forever afterward so we want to play that.

Ideas? Thanks much!

Pancakes

2009-03-13T22:49:00.000-07:00

These pancakes are easy and really yummy. I think I'll make them for breakfast tomorrow. I love to eat my pancakes with peanut butter and syrup on top. If you've never tried it, you should.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon white sugar
1 1/4 cups milk
1 egg
3 tablespoons butter, melted

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk, egg and melted butter; mix until smooth.

Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Brown on both sides and serve hot.

HAPPY (early) BIRTHDAY TARA!!!

2009-03-06T14:53:00.000-08:00

I know you and Collin are disappearing and will be gone on your actual birthday so I'm hoping you see this before you go. I hope your trip is amazing and that you guys manage to make your birthday special no matter what you're up to. We'll all be thinking of you and wishing you a very

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

I can't make pretty cakes but if you were here I'd make you some yummy cupcakes.

We love you and miss you guys. I hope we don't have to go too much longer with seeing you guys.

Here You Go...

2009-03-05T19:48:00.000-08:00

Thai Salad

1lb. Angel Hair Pasta ¾ cup soy sauce
¼ cup peanut oil ¾ to 1 cup mayo
1 to 2 tsp. Dijon ¼ cup sesame oil
¼ cup chili oil 2 whole chicken breast or a rotisserie chicken
6 green onions 2 carrots peeled and grated
1 red bell pepper chopped 1 can water chestnuts chopped
½ cup cilantro no stems ½ lb. snow peas
toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Cook chicken (grill or shred a rotisserie chicken). Cook noodles, drain and toss with ½ cup soy sauce and peanut oil. Set aside.
Combine mayo, Dijon, sesame oil, remaining soy sauce and chili oil. Refrigerate. Add chicken to noodles, then add dressing and toss well. Refrigerate. Before serving add all veggies. Garnish with extra cilantro and sesame seeds.

Julie's Thai Noodles

2009-03-05T08:44:00.000-08:00

Julie Larsen, can you please post your Thai Noodle recipe that you brought to the cooking group? I wanted to make it for an Asian themed potluck I am going to tomorrow and I can't find the recipe. Or Katy or Kirsten could you post it? Thanks!

H-uppy Boit-day (said by Gus Gus from Cinderella) Kirsten

2009-02-23T17:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Kirsten! You are a pretty pretty princess and we all love you. Hope you had a great day today. If I was in Utah I would make you a beautiful cake, but since I am stuck in central Pennsylvania, this will have to do. Treat yourself today, you deserve it!

Eat Your Veggies

2009-02-21T14:53:00.000-08:00

I tried a new recipe that is really simple and yummy. My friend from my cooking group gave it to me and it is originally for broccoli, but tonight I used it for cauliflower and Collin (and he usually hates cauliflower), Ian and I loved it. My friend's family full of super picky kids loves it too.

Roasted Broccoli or Cauliflower

1 head broccoli (1 3/4 pounds) or cauliflower

2 T oil

1/2 t salt

1/2 t sugar

Adjust oven oven rack to lowest position, place large rimmed baking sheet on rack and heat oven to 500 degrees. Cut broccoli or cauliflower at juncture of florets and stems. Cut crowns into 4 wedges so that each piece has a flat side. Place broccoli or cauliflower in a bowl and drizzle with oil, tossing to coat. Sprinkle with salt and sugar and toss to combine. Working quickly, remove baking sheet from oven. Carefully transfer broccoli or cauliflower to baking sheet and spread out in an even layer, placing flat sides down. Return baking sheet to oven and roast until florets are lightly browned, 9-11 minutes.

Here's another one I am going to try next time, but I don't know if kids will like the garlic.

Roasted Broccoli with Garlic

1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets, stems peeled and sliced

1-2 T extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

salt and freshly ground pepper

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, salt and lots of black pepper on a baking sheet. Spread out in a single layer and then roast, without stirring until edges are crispy and the stems are crisp-tender, about 20 minutes.

No Fail French Bread

2009-02-16T16:52:00.000-08:00

This recipe comes from my grandmother's ward's cookbook from a million years ago (which is probably more like 1977, but that might as well be a million years ago). I like to use this recipe for sandwich loaves because the crumb and the sponginess make for easy slicing. It makes two large, delicious, versatile loaves.

Combine and set aside:
1/2 cup warm water
2 Tbs yeast

Combine and add to water/yeast mixture:
2 cups warm water
1/3 cup melted shortening (or oil, or butter)
3 Tbs sugar

1 Tbs salt

Add:
3 cups flour

Mix until smooth. Let it rest for 10 minutes and then stir again. Continue resting/stirring for one hour.

Add:
3 cups more flour, or just enough flour to be able to knead it.

After kneading, divide the dough in half and shape it. Place it on a greased baking sheet or bread pan. (Optional: Glaze top with one egg white and slice the top three times diagonally.) Let it rise until doubled. Bake for 35 minutes at 400 degrees. Remove it from the bread pan to cool.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROBYN!!!!

2009-02-15T08:15:00.000-08:00

I wish I had a scanner so I could include some of the super fantastic pictures I've got of you in my possession but I don't so you're off the hook. For now! I hope you have the best day ever today and that the world in general spoils you rotten. Have a fabulous 28th and know that people all over the country are wishing you the best. I wish we lived closer, I'd bake you some cookies or babysit your kids or something for you. I don't, though, so this birthday wish will have to do.

I think you're great and I'm glad that 18+ years ago your family baked mine a pie. Have a great birthday.

Valentine's Day plans?

2009-02-11T07:36:00.000-08:00

So what is everyone going to do for Valentine's Day this year? Anything special? I think I spent too many years telling myself that Valentine's Day was dumb and a fake holiday (to comfort myself over the lack of any attention I received on Valentine's Day) that even now that I'm married I just don't really care about it. I don't want a present and I don't care if we don't go out. I'd like a card or love letter and for Dave to be extra sweet but that's about it.

On Saturday morning we have a primary V-day activity we have to go to, we're valiant 11 teachers, and then we'll have a small family party/dinner together that night. I got some festive paper plates and decorations, more for Kendall's benefit than anything else. We'll make treats for neighbors to show them how much we love them and we're going to make a chocolate dessert for us. At home and low key which is right up my alley. Gage and I both have birthdays about a week later, I'll leave the real celebrating for then.

Moby Wrap

2009-02-10T17:03:00.000-08:00

With a new baby that wants to be held all the time, it can be hard to get anything done. Kirsten let me borrow her Moby Wrap and it is a life saver. Today I carried Charlotte around in it at the grocery store and at home while I made dinner. She falls right to sleep in it and I have two free hands to work with. It is also way more comfortable than other baby carriers I have tried. There are tons of different ways to wrap your child depending on their age. The website even shows how to wrap up twins Stephanie. Anyway, just thought I'd share for those who may need to free up their hands.

Valentine's Day

2009-02-09T14:41:00.000-08:00

Ladies Valentines Day is approaching so I wanted to include this in here, here are some cute ideas for some treats. Check out Bakerella's blog site at www.bakerella.blogspot.com. She has some cute Red Velvet Valentine cookies plus some giveaways. I love this site, she is so clever!

Peanut Recall

2009-02-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

Just in case some of you Supermommies want to check, this site has a list of companies not affected by the peanut recall -
http://www.peanutsusa.com/USA/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.page&pid=262

Best Brush

2009-01-30T09:11:00.000-08:00

Please excuse this grodie looking picture. I love this brush. Emma (my 7-year-old daughter) left her brush at Stephanie's house over the break and so I bought this one for a dollar at the Food Surplus Outlet. It has changed our mother-daughter relationship for the better. It used to be that Emma would scream or cry when I would do her hair in the morning before school. I have curly hair and a tender head and so I have always brushed her hair really gently while holding it so it doesn't pull right from the scalp, but she would still always make a fuss. Since I got this brush she has actually asked me to brush her hair at night because it doesn't pull. I can brush my own hair which is full of tangles without crying as well. I love this brush! If you have daughters that cry at hairdo time I really recommend you get it. I think it is less than $6 at Walgreens. Happy styling!

Free Cosmetics!!

2009-01-20T11:40:00.000-08:00

Hey girls -- free makeup at department stores. Macy's, Saks, Lord and Taylor, Dillards... if you bought makeup at one of these stores in the last few years they are settling a 56 million dollar suit by giving out free stuff. One item per person per store. I got some Lancome mascara at Saks and some Clinique day cream at Macy's. Pretty sweet!! Only lasts while supplies last, starts today.

Introducing Royal and Ruby McKinney

2009-01-09T16:20:00.000-08:00

Royal and Ruby

Royal Sumner and Ruby Tresler (my maiden name) were born on December 29th around 8:15 in the evening. Royal weighed 5 lbs 14 oz and was 18 inches long and Ruby weighed 5 lbs 11 oz and was 19 inches long. Both were born very healthy and strong.

I ended up having a c-section after the ultrasound showed both little ones were transverse. Though I wish I could've delivered vaginally, the labor and delivery part of it was way easier.....the recovery, not so much. I'm just glad it's getting better everyday. I feel great, though a little sleepy.

I'm SO grateful for my little ones and I think it's such a blessing to have twins. They are beautiful in every way.

Schools

2008-12-30T15:05:00.000-08:00

Anybody know how to find out which schools in an area are the best?

The Nativity

2008-12-15T19:25:00.000-08:00

We watched this for part of FHE tonight. It's about 5 minutes long if you have some spare time. The video is to the song "Breath of Heaven" by Amy Grant. I have always loved this song. If you listen to the words, try to imagine how Mary must have felt at this time.

Give oh give, give oh give

2008-12-08T07:36:00.000-08:00

With the times the way they are and the holidays here we've been reflecting a lot on how blessed we are. We've been trying to teach Kendall about blessings and how fortunate we are and that with so much, we should try to help people who aren't as fortunate. I'm trying to give her little chances to give like having her put all our change into the 'bell piggybank' at the grocery store while explaining that the money goes to help people, and having her come to our tithing settlement which gave us a great opportunity to explain about tithing and offerings.

So, this morning we were watching Postcards from Buster and he was in China visiting kids who did things to help others. One girl raised money to give to sick kids. Kendall was all over it. (I think she liked that girl because she was a figure skater.) Anyway, she wants to earn money to give to sick kids and who am I to say no. I think it's great but I need ideas- what types of things can a 4 year old (with our help of course) do to earn money? You are all so creative so I thought I'd ask you.

Any ideas?

What's On Your Bookshelf?

2008-12-04T12:30:00.000-08:00

I've really been enjoying Charles Martin's books lately. He's a christian writer so there isn't bad language or nasty talk. Really feel-good books. I'm finished with all his books and was wondering what you all are reading.

Gumdrop Wreath

2008-12-01T15:31:00.003-08:00

Saw this on MarthaStewart.com

I think I'll try a small, multi-colored version with the kiddos.

Tools and Materials:
Styrofoam wreath form
Florist's wire
Gumdrops
Toothpicks
Decorative ribbon

Gumdrop Wreath How-To:
1. Wrap enough florist's wire around wreath form to leave a large loop for hanging. Break toothpicks in half. Lay wreath form flat.

2. Begin a short row: Place pointed end of a few toothpick halves into Styrofoam, following the form's curve from inside to outside; push one gumdrop onto broken end of each toothpick. After row is a few inches long, make a parallel row on each side until section is covered. Repeat until wreath is complete. (Note: If you try to complete an entire ring of gumdrops before moving to next row, it will be very difficult to create a uniform pattern.)

3. Suspend wreath from wire hanger, disguised with a wide satin bow.

snowflakes

2008-11-26T09:28:00.000-08:00

I made these snowflake ornaments with my 3 year old the other day and she loved it. I got the idea from a magazine and I think they turned out pretty cute, I still need to find something to hang them with but it was super easy and fast so I thought I'd share with all of you!

What you need:

popsicle sticks

glue

buttons

I heart Etsy.

2008-11-24T10:35:00.000-08:00

I'm not a big shopper and most of the shopping I do is online. I have a few favorite online stores that I regularly shop at like old navy and amazon but one of my very favorites is Etsy. It's where people can buy and sell homemade products and there are such unique things to choose from. You can find anything there I swear.

Here's the link...

http://www.etsy.com/

It's also a great place to sell all sorts of things. You pay a small fee to list things but don't have to pay a percentage like on ebay.

I'm buying these Christmas gift tags from there (minus the blue)...

Twilight Reviews

2008-11-24T08:40:00.000-08:00

So ladies, it is here! What did you think about Twilight? IF you didn't see it you DON'T READ THIS PLEASE!

Reminder

2008-11-21T07:09:00.000-08:00

I love this talk by Elder M. Russell Ballard in April 2008 conference. I've been feeling frustrated with my lack of energy lately. I feel like there's always so much to do and not enough time/energy to do it all. I remembered this talk and it is very encouraging and uplifting. I really like the quote from Anna Quindlen. I need an occasional reminder to stop and enjoy the moment instead of rushing to the next task.

"What can you do, as a young mother, to reduce the pressure and enjoy your family more?

First, recognize that the joy of motherhood comes in moments. There will be hard times and frustrating times. But amid the challenges, there are shining moments of joy and satisfaction.

Author Anna Quindlen reminds us not to rush past the fleeting moments. She said: 'The biggest mistake I made [as a parent] is the one that most of us make. … I did not live in the moment enough. This is particularly clear now that the moment is gone, captured only in photographs. There is one picture of [my three children] sitting in the grass on a quilt in the shadow of the swing set on a summer day, ages six, four, and one. And I wish I could remember what we ate, and what we talked about, and how they sounded, and how they looked when they slept that night. I wish I had not been in such a hurry to get on to the next thing: dinner, bath, book, bed. I wish I had treasured the doing a little more and the getting it done a little less' (Loud and Clear [2004], 10–11)."

Ornament wreath

2008-11-19T19:56:00.000-08:00

I made this today and people seem to like it so I thought I'd post a link to some basic directions on here too in case anyone is interested. It was very easy, not too time consuming, and turned out really cute.

Here's mine...

http://www.deepfriedkudzu.com/2008/01/mardi-gras-wreath-ornament-wreath.html

intro: Misty

2008-11-18T21:50:00.000-08:00

hey everyone, I'm Misty and Katy invited me to be part of your great group! I know the McKinney's from when they lived out here in Modesto, Ca, we went to church together and it's been fun finding them again!

A little about me: My husband Ryan and I have been married for 6 years, we met while we were at school in San Diego and we were married a short 7 months later. We lived in San Diego for 4 years and moved back up to Modesto right before we had our daughter. So now we have 2 kids, Dylen who is 3 and Max who is 18 months. My husband is a Paramedic and also in the National Guard and I work a couple mornings at my Dad's office and get to spend the rest of the time with my two cute kiddos. I love being a mom and I look forward to getting advice and great ideas from all of you! Thanks for inviting me Katy.

Who is ready for Twilight?

2008-11-18T17:43:00.000-08:00

Opening in Theatres near you November 21st!

Need ideas

2008-11-16T14:38:00.001-08:00

I'm going to wrap a bunch of boxes and use them as outdoor decorations. I need advice/ideas on what I can wrap them in so they will be snow and rain proof. Any ideas ladies??

Free Photobook from Snapfish

2008-11-14T11:31:00.000-08:00

You can make a free custom Snapfish photobook through the link on Oprah's website (click here). The offer ends at midnight so hurry and check it out. Thanks Britney for the info. I'm gonna go work on mine.

Pumpkin Bread

2008-11-02T10:34:00.000-08:00

I've been making this a lot lately. It's so yummy, especially when you add chocolate chips to the batter.

1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
4 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2/3 cup water
3 cups white sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
chocolate chips, optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour three 7x3 inch loaf pans. *I use two standard bread loaf pans (not sure the measurements) and cook about 60 minutes.*

In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water and sugar until well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger. Stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until just blended. Pour into the prepared pans.

Bake for about 50 minutes in the preheated oven. Loaves are done when toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Dates

2008-10-28T18:23:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to survey how many of you regularly go on dates with your husbands.

For no good reason we rarely do and I've been thinking for awhile that that needs to change.

Sleeping Woes

2008-10-23T19:17:00.000-07:00

As you may or may not know I had a tiny guy back in August. This is my third time around and it really has been the easiest. He is a great eater, is only up twice in the night and goes right back down after eating, he is a mild mannered little guy too. At night I lay him down in his crib when he is drowsy and he usually wiggles for a few minutes then falls to sleep.

My only hiccup has now been naps. For the first weeks he of coarse slept most of the time and I would just tote him around the house where ever I was and he would sleep in his bouncer or swing. But the past few weeks (he is 9 weeks now) I have been trying to get him to sleep in his crib for naps and it hasn't gone well. Like at night, I will lay him down when I know he is sleepy and he will wiggle in there for a few minutes, no crying, then will then fall asleep. But the problem is he doesn't stay asleep. He always wakes up after about 10-20 min. Sometimes I can go stick his binky back in and he will go back to sleep, but again only for about 10 min. Today I thought I would just leave him alone and let him cry a little and see if he would go back to sleep. He cried for 30 min straight and didn't fall back asleep. So usually after about an hour of the battle I just get him out bring him around the house with me. Although the past few days he doesn't really sleep well in his swing either.

I am at a loss. So what do I do? Am I going about it all wrong? He doesn't really have any issues falling asleep its just staying asleep. None of the books that I have address this. They only talk about getting them to sleep, not staying. Please help if you can.

Women Helping Women

2008-10-19T18:24:00.001-07:00

So while I was doing some research for food storage (specifically what kinds of sanitary supplies to store) I came across something that just blew me away. In developing countries, girls only have rags or newspapers to use when they have their periods, or even worse they have nothing at all! This makes it difficult for them to go to school on the days that they are menstruating.

Some companies are providing disposable sanitary supplies to some areas which is good, but has a downside. There are no public waste facilities and so the pads, tampons and covers end up being burned which releases harmful toxins into the environment. They also would have to depend on an outside source for their sanitary supplies instead of being self-reliant once they had the reusable pads.

I thought it would be neat to challenge each member of the blog to make 6 reusable cloth pads to donate to Goods 4 Girls (and if you are feeling ambitious, 3 zippered wet bags to carry wet or dry pads in). There are a variety of patterns to choose from and they don't look too hard to make. If you feel too intimidated by sewing to make them yourself, you might also consider donating money to the cause or buying cloth pads from an online store and they will mail them to Goods 4 Girls for you.

I am so grateful that I can drive to the drugstore and buy myself sanitary supplies whenever I want. After reading about these girls, I felt like a spoiled brat because I complain a lot about my period. I have sanitary supplies, hot running water, soap, wipes, Midol and Ben and Jerry's to help me get through my period. I can't imagine having to sit in a hut on a pile of newspaper for days while I wait for my period to end. I feel so fortunate that I live where I live in the pleasant circumstances that I live in!

I think we could do a lot of good with a little effort. You can use fabric you already have as long as it is clean. You might have to buy some waterproof fabric and snaps or velcro and zippers, but the cost should be minimal. If you don't have fabric on hand, many fabric stores sell remnants for much cheaper. Some of the recommended fabrics are flannel, cotton T-shirt material and PUL.

I think this would also be a wonderful humanitarian aid project to suggest to your Relief Society Enrichment Supervisor (my calling in my ward) if you are LDS.

Are you gals in? I think a good deadline would be the end of January after the holidays are over. Does that sound reasonable?

Complete information and instructions can be found at Goods 4 Girls.

Middle Names

2008-10-15T15:22:00.000-07:00

It's been a family tradition (for many generations) to not give girls middle names. It bothered me for a time when I was younger that everyone had a middle name but me. Then it became a cool thing, because most people hated their middle names and luckily, I wasn't plagued with one. Now that I'm married, I'm really glad that I only have three names, that I didn't feel like I had to choose one name over another, and that I've been able to retain all my names without being cumbersome. I've been wondering where this tradition began. Is it a Mormon/Utah thing? My husband's family is from Utah, and they have the same tradition. How many of us don't have middle names? Are you happy about that, or do you feel gypped? If you don't have a middle name, did you carry on the tradition for your daughters, or did you break tradition? If you broke tradition, what was your reason? I've heard some people complain that they feel like not giving girls middle names is sexist, since the boys merited three names. What do you think? If you do have a middle name, did you legally keep your first, middle, maiden, and married names, or did you leave something out? What made you choose to include or exclude certain names? And April, you have a middle name, right? But you didn't give your daughters middle names. How did you make that decision?

Halloween Ideas

2008-10-13T23:13:00.000-07:00

I need help with some ideas for Fall or Halloween activities to do with a group of kids. It can be a craft, game, treats or anything else the kids would enjoy.

Tooth Fairy???

2008-10-11T22:42:00.001-07:00

My daughter lost another tooth today. She put it under her pillow with a letter to the tooth fairy asking very politely for a picture of her. She explained that her friend at school doesn't believe in tooth fairies,Santa Claus or the Easter bunny. Sp she wants a picture to show her. Yeah, what do I do here? I hate to ruin childhood innocence, but do I need to tell her the truth? I seriously thought about finding a picture of someone in a fairy costume under her pillow, but that seems a little too much to me. Well, I guess asking for advice on this at 11:30 at night doesn't help when I'll have to do something by morning. Oh well. What would you do?

twilight trailer

2008-10-09T18:07:00.001-07:00

How to peel an egg

2008-10-07T10:58:00.000-07:00

Here is a video demonstrating how to peel an egg without peeling the egg. This guy is Tim Ferris, author of The 4-Hour Work Week (never read it, but it sounds interesting) and master of efficiency. Pretty cool.

A fun conference weekend idea

2008-10-04T11:29:00.000-07:00

6 months ago my friend posted this on her blog and I loved it. We are doing it tonight.

"The King Benjamin Tent...
In one of my institute classes, I learned that a fun way to get children excited for conference is to read in the Book of Mormon about King Benjamin's address to his people. We explain that the people came from far and wide to listen to their prophet and leader at that time and pitched their tents with the door toward the prophet. So we reinact this idea by putting up a tent, and if room permits, face it towards the TV for conference. Talon LOVES this. He looks forward to it and we let him sleep in the tent those two nights of conference. It's so much fun. Whoever thought of the idea was very inspired."

I thought I'd share the idea with all of you and see if anyone else has some ideas about how to help kids listen to conference.

Potential Nightmare

2008-09-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

My oldest daughter (3.5 years old) hates to see the doctor. She doesn't want strangers touching her. She remembers the shots. She doesn't want someone looking in her eyes and ears and mouth. It's almost too much to even ask her to stand on the scale, but she will, reluctantly with a bribe. But that's about the limit of her cooperation. The last time she needed a vaccine, she pulled the needle out of her leg and threw it at the nurse (it was impressive, but not shocking, although the nurse sure didn't see it coming). To say that she makes a scene is a huge understatement. This is just the way she is and she's always been that way. I would like her to see the dentist (I think she needs it, given that she makes it extremely difficult for ME to brush her teeth), but I fear things will be even worse than the well baby visits. I have a friend who is a dental hygienist for a pediatric dentist and she has tried to convince me that these people are really good at what they do, and they would know how to handle my daughter (hmm...). She says that kids who are three years and older leave their parents in the waiting room and see the dentist by themselves. I'm pretty against that idea, not just because it would be traumatic for her (they'd have to drag her), but also for safety reasons. But even if I'm with her, what would they do for a child like mine? There's no way she'd be cooperative even for an x-ray. I'm thinking they'd have to knock her out completely just to get a glimpse at her teeth. Does anybody have experience with difficult children at the dentist? What can they do? And if they have to dope her up, is that safe?

Crazy 8

2008-09-27T07:40:00.000-07:00

A friend had information about this store, Crazy 8, on her blog. It is owned by the same company as Gymboree, but has better prices. Cute stuff too. There are not many physical locations, but of course you can shop online.

Meltdown Prevention

2008-09-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

I mostly only have major meltdown problems with my 5 year old (and sometimes myself). I actually had my son wait an extra year before kindergarten because he seems to have meltdowns often. He has gotten better about it since he started pre-school again this year. The first day he came home from school and said, "My day wasn't so good. I threw five fits." As the month has gone by he has thrown fewer and fewer fits, probably because his new more business-like teacher won't put up with it. I thought this article listed some great ideas for meltdown prevention.

heart hurt.

2008-09-23T18:35:00.001-07:00

My little Sam started Kindergarten this year. It's been a pretty smooth transition so far, but lately he has been telling all of us that we "have BAD breath"... including our little baby. So of course, that made me suspect that someone has been telling him that. So I asked him tonight if someone at school was telling him that. He says, "yeah, they tell me that everyday." Come to find that it's several of the boys in his class that he speaks about admiringly everyday and really wants to be friends with them. I asked him if they are mean to him and he said, "only sometimes". Of course then we talked about the importance of brushing teeth 2x a day, etc.

You know, he really seems pretty unaffected by it-- when he told me about it there were no tears or anything. But tonight my heart feels really heavy. He's my first off to School-- he's away from me everyday for the full day- and I can't protect him anymore--I can't fight his battles. And it just hurts my heart.

Ellen with Stephenie Meyer today!!!

2008-09-17T08:15:00.000-07:00

Stephenie Meyer will be on The Ellen show today talking about Twilight.

Thought you'd all like to know. I know I'm excited!

Guilty Pleasures: MOVIES

2008-09-12T13:42:00.000-07:00

The other day I was blog hopping and on one blog a song from Moulin Rouge was playing. Instantly I felt happy because I had flashes of my life back when I saw the movie and what a great time it was. Now, I keep wanting to sit down and watch it. It is remarkable how sights, sounds, smells and music can transport you/your mind to a different time that you experienced.

My question: What movies from your past do you love because it brings back exciting/happy/positive feelings? Maybe it was just the soundtrack you loved. Tell why please.

My guilty pleasure is Moulin Rouge. I saw it at the dollar theater in Provo when I still lived there. I heard from some women that it was good. I went with my girlfriend, Meghan. At first we didn't get it, it was too in your face. A day later we both kept talking about it and then we went and saw it again. The weirdness made it unique (ie. Napoleon Dynamite). I admit it is not for every taste. Anyway, we burned the soundtrack and then became huge fans of the music, movie and actors (especially Ewan McGregor). When I think of that time, it was a fun, young, kid free, mortgage free, poor married student time in my life. :0)

9/11/08

2008-09-11T07:55:00.000-07:00

As you all know today is September 11th, I was just wondering...... Are you guys going to talk to your kids about today and why it is important? I was watching the news this morning and they were having a memorial service which made me think.... They are trying to have a Gay Day in our schools, but are they going to have a day to remember what our country is fighting for? Or the men and women that die to protect it?

Paper crafts

2008-09-10T19:22:00.000-07:00

I think paper crafts can be very cool. My favorite part of my Real Simple magazine are the section intros that have a picture made out of paper.

I checked this book out from the library today and it's awesome! I tried to make the tiny gift box and it turned out pretty good for doing it with kid scissors and dealing with a crazy toddler clawing at my legs. It looks like a tiny doughnut box because it's pink but that's okay, it was still cute. I'm excited to make holiday decorations from here. They seem easy enough for Kendall to help with and they're very cute. Clean and not too country which is how I prefer my crafts.

http://www.amazon.com/Paper-All-Seasons-Projects-Presents/dp/0823038920/ref=pd_bbs_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1221099518&sr=8-2

Monkey See Monkey Do

2008-09-09T08:10:00.000-07:00

So, I wanted your opinion on this item. I recently purchased this Backpack/Harness, but lets be honest, it is really a leash. I got it because when I set Elianna down to grab something in the truck she takes off and I would be mortified if she ran out into the street or road. I also bought it because, we are taking our family vacation at the end of September to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. This would be perfect, I can keep her in range and not be totally stressed trying to keep her right next to me at all times. This would let her get tired too, sitting in the stroller doesn't have the same effect. She isn't physically doing anything. She is a busy body. This would allow her to roam but safely. What do you think about it? Am I seriously sick minded?

Dream House

2008-09-04T16:02:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in the last post, it is so fun getting to know a little bit more about everyone. Here's the next question.....

What would be you're ideal dream house..... That is what style and where would you want it to be. The reason I came up with this one is because my parents have just finished building a house this year and it is more of the Spanish type, and that got me thinking.... if I could build my own dream house, what would it be, and where would I live?

OK girls go for it, let's say money's no object, any place in the world, and any style of house... this does not have to be realistic. Have Fun!!

Dream Job

2008-09-02T20:51:00.000-07:00

If you could do any job in the world, what would it be.... and I mean in a perfect world where you can have kids and still get everything done that you want to in the day. Maybe even have a cook or house keeper, in your most perfect situation, what would you do?

I'll give you a few examples.....

doctor, lawyer, zoo keeper, dentist, school teacher, librarian, lunch lady at school, the walmart guy that hands out the carts and says hello, nurse, artist, photographer, just to name a few....
now remember, you can be as creative as you like, as for me.....

I would be a CSI.... Crime scene investigator.... I love that kinda of stuff, it's kinda like a puzzle and you get to figure it all out.

Baby Blues....

2008-08-30T14:24:00.000-07:00

I just needed to know, of all the women who read this blog, how many got "the baby blues" and for how long? With my first child, I went into a depression so bad the Dr. medicated and counseled me... that lasted over a year. Now with my son turning two months I'm finding it harder and harder to get out of bed and shower. I'm nervous, does this happen to all moms, is it just me? Am I horrible for feeling this way when the people close to me (my sister) are struggling with a loss, and I can't even deal with my issues? HELP

Midnight Sun

2008-08-29T12:04:00.000-07:00

Someone leaked on the internet a partial draft of Stephenie Meyer's Midnight Sun manuscript (which, as you probably know, is Twilight retold from Edward's perspective) and now Stephenie has offered the partial draft (12 chapters, non-contraband this time) on her website. I read the leaked version and I loved it, so I really hope she publishes Midnight Sun in the future (when she's not so angry about the leak).
http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/midnightsun.html

Let the guilt go!

2008-08-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

"Their physical brain develops through play"

Forever my friends and I have been worried, that as young moms, we didn't know enough or do enough extra activities with our kids in their first years. Many of us didn't have the budget to sign-up for art classes when our baby was 18mo. or buy the expensive electronic learning system toys for Christmas. We all just tried to make ourselves feel like what we were doing was going to be good enough.

Recently, I been feeling guilty because I didn't put my second son, who just turned 3, into preschool this year. My first son went to preschool when he was two, mostly because he needed to the social interaction. So, he ended up going for three years and now, in Kindergarten, it's not like he is any smarter then the kids who only went for one year. Well, I saw this Today Show segment and it made me feel like, OK, my child will grow-up to be just (if not more) innovative then the child who had violin/art/chorus lessons and a personal computer when he was two. Let the children play!

Enrichment Ideas

2008-08-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

So I am the new Enrichment Supervisor in my ward. I am excited about it from the learning and crafts side, but a little daunted by the spiritual stuff. Can everyone please share some ideas of Enrichment meetings they have attended that had cool spiritual themes? I have the entire year to plan coming up, no committee yet and an Enrichment counselor who has a very slow and indirect way of doing things (completely opposite from me).

Our next activity is RS Broadcast and I thought it would be fun and easier to do a potluck fancy dessert with another ward since we will both be in the building at the same time and since here the Broadcast starts at 8 pm.

Also, if you have any cute and cheap Christmas gift ideas to pass along that would be great. So far we are doing cookie mixes in jars, painted wooden signs with vinyl lettering (love at home, etc.,) and hair bows.

School Snacks

2008-08-21T20:06:00.000-07:00

I came across some fun ideas for snacks and other back-to-school ideas at FamilyFun.com

Potty Training

2008-08-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

I need help with training my daughter. The only time she goes is when she is really relaxed (naptime and night sleeping). I have her sit on the "potty" after she gets up, before nap, before bed at night and anytime she wants to but there has been nothing. Does it take along time for them to get the hang of it or is she still too young?

Twilight News

2008-08-18T07:57:00.000-07:00

Ladies, I just read on Stephenie Meyer's blog that due to circumstances regarding the Harry Potter movie being delayed, Twilight will be released in theatres on November 21st now! Check it out!

http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/index.html

School Time Snack Ideas

2008-08-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

Does anyone have any great school snack ideas? Claire's first grade class is asking for people to just randomly bring snacks in that the teacher can pass out before they go to recess. They need to be something easy and fast and preferably, not sugar. It all sounds great, but I think that the kids are gonna end up with a lot of pretzles and grahm crackers. Anyone have any other great ideas?

Love it!

2008-08-06T12:07:00.001-07:00

Almost done reading it, if I could just hide from my kids for 2 seconds uggh! This book is Crazy!! My plan is to set the kids in front of the t.v. with lots of junk food so I won't have anymore interruptions except from my nursing baby Dallin! I hope this neglect towards my children will be successful! :)

Yummy Toffe Bark!!!!

2008-08-05T10:36:00.001-07:00

Last night I hosted a recipe exchange and this is what I made. It doesn't take long and it's pretty easy to make. Also, you can make it a day or two before and just refrigerate or freeze it. I've made it before and everyone LOVED it. It's deadly because once you have just one bight, you'll want to eat it all. So here's the recipe:

1 c. brown sugar (packed)

1 c. melted butter

1 pkg. Trader Joe’s semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips

Nabisco’s salted tops soda crackers

Trader Joe’s dry roasted unsalted almonds (chopped)

Preheat oven to 350. Put foil over cookie sheet and spray with Pam butter flavor. Place crackers salt side up on foil. Melt butter then add brown sugar and stir over med. heat until it boils. After sugar mixture has boiled for 3 minutes, pour over crackers and put in oven. When it stars getting bubbly on top, turn oven down to 325 and let bubble for another 5 minutes. Turn off oven and sprinkle choc. chips over mixture (crackers). Leave in oven for 3 minutes. They should be soft enough to spread evenly thereafter. Sprinkle with chopped almonds and freeze for 45 minutes, or you may refrigerate. Crack into pieces and enjoy!

Breaking Dawn

2008-08-05T08:58:00.001-07:00

Who's read it and what did you think?

Don't read the comments if you haven't read or finished it and don't want to be spoiled.

Cheap Dates

2008-08-02T05:35:00.000-07:00

I don't know how many of you have already read this article, but I thought it had some good ideas for inexpensive dates. We get most of our babysitting for free through a co-op, but when no one in the co-op can take a sit our dates are really costly. Once when we had a sorority girl babysit for us, the babysitting cost twice as much as what we spent on the date, which didn't seem right. With gas so expensive and the economy so bad, we've all got to cut corners where we can.

French Toast Kabobs

2008-07-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

I haven't tried these, but I thought Martha had a fun idea.

Serves 4
Ingredients
8 large eggs, lightly beaten
2/3 cup nonfat buttermilk
pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 loaf (one-pound) unsliced dense white bread (such as pullman), crusts removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 pint fresh blueberries
1/2 pint fresh raspberries
2 bananas, sliced
Maple syrup (optional

Directions
Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Place a rimmed baking sheet in the oven to warm. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, salt, and vanilla. Stir in bread.

In a large saute pan set over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Place half of the bread mixture in pan; cook, turning occasionally with a spatula, until browned on all sides. To keep warm, transfer to the oven. Cook remaining bread in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter as before.

Thread bread cubes onto skewers alternating with blueberries, raspberries, and banana slices. Serve immediately with maple syrup, if desired.

Use the Force

2008-07-26T20:19:00.001-07:00

A had his b-day party on Friday and I made these cupcakes and some star wars goodie bags. If you like, you can read about how they were created.

Let us Discuss

2008-07-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

The Twi-hards at church are getting ready for the big release of the last Twilight book. I found this magazine photo and I thought you ladies might want to comment on it. I think that it looks like Edward ate a cherry Otter-pop before the photo shoot. And what about the chest hair?

Here is the lastest movie trailer too.

3 Hours in a Row!

2008-07-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

Our Little Wyatt actually slept for 3 hours in a row last night. I know that's not amazing for some of you, but he had been getting up every hour to two hours to eat, and let me tell you I have been sooooooo tired! He is only 3 weeks old now, and hopefully the older he gets the more he will sleep. I feel like a new woman today, it's amazing what a little extra sleep can do!

In the delivery room,

One Day Old,

Wyatt's First bath,

First Fo-Hawk!

Soft Pretzels

2008-07-16T19:10:00.001-07:00

After seeing these pretzels made on Good Eats I decided it was something that Kendall and I could tackle during one of Gage's naps. I was really surprised at how yummy and easy they were. I gave Kendall a ball of dough to form at the end when I was rolling the rest into pretzels and she had so much fun. In the end she said hers was a dinosaur but it was just a big lump of small dough balls stuck together. I brushed hers with melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar and did the rest like it says in the recipe. They were WAY good, soft and chewy.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/homemade-soft-pretzels-recipe/index.html

My secret food weapon

2008-07-16T11:11:00.001-07:00

Kendall is a picky eater and it can be hard to get her to eat things besides cereal, string cheese, pancakes, and pb&j sandwiches. Unless it's junk and then it's never a problem. So lately I've been putting a tiny bit of sprinkles on top of things like yogurt and fruit and my word she will gobble it up.

Here's her lunch, grilled cheese and fresh pineapple. She was so excited to see sprinkles on the pineapple and she asked me to put some on her sandwich too. Nasty but whatever gets the job done.

She's such a princess I swear.