Sunday, October 17, 2010
Sopapilla Cheesecake Pie- Delicious and Easy!
One of our newest members of the ward.... Amie Ivie..... shared this amazing recipe with us at our recent Card making for soldiers event. We were all raving over it! So delicious!Sopapilla Cheesecake Pie-
It is has a crunchy cinamony top and creamy cheesecake filling and a bottom crust.Try this you will love it.
You can go to Allrecipes and read the rave reviews on this recipe as well.Sopapilla Cheesecake Pie
Ingredients
Directions
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Green Apple Salad and Dressing
This was the most delicious salad that we all were raving over from our card making for soldiers potluck lunch.Jesscia Quenzer brought this salad.
Salad:One head red leaf lettuce (sometimes I throw in a head of butter lettuce as well)6-8 green onions, chopped2 green apples, thinly sliced into bite sized piecesfeta cheese, to tastecraisins, to tastetoasted almonds, to taste (place almonds on cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 6-8 minutes)
Combine all salad ingredients in large bowl and toss thoroughly. Drizzle dressing (recipe below) over the salad just before serving. Mix until all greens are coated. Enjoy!
Dressing:2 Tablespoons white wine vinegar1/4 cup salad oil2 Tablespoons sugar1/2 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon pepper
I usually double the dressing recipe, to have on hand just in case. If doubled, be careful not to over saturate the greens prior to serving. I usually pour half the doubled recipe over the salad and add more if needed.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Parenting Workshop and Swap Til you Drop
Girl's Night OutParenting Workshop and SWAP Til You Drop!September 7th @ 7pmJan Williams will be hosting a fabulous Parenting Workshop to recharge your parenting battery!Swap Til You DropStart cleaning out your closets, drawers, garages and attics and bring all your items to the swap!Remember: One friends junk is another friends treasure!Bring your items to the church on September 7th between 9am and 11amor before 7pm that night.Monday, June 28, 2010
Cooking Group Salad Recipes
I am finally getting around to posting some of the recipes from our cooking group... It has been really enjoyable getting together and sharing recipes with one another. I am still missing recipes from a few people so once I get them I will post those too.
From our Salad Cooking night-Panzanella Salad
3 tablespoons good olive oil1 small French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (6 cups)1 teaspoon kosher salt2 large, ripe tomatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes1 hothouse cucumber,unpeeled, seeded, and sliced 1/2-inch thick1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes1/2 red onion, cut in 1/2 and thinly sliced20 large basil leaves,Optional coarsely chopped 3 tablespoons capers, drained
For the vinaigrette: (Or use your favorite Italian dressing to save time)1 teaspoon finely minced garlic1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard3 tablespoons Champagne vinegar1/2 cup good olive oil1/2 teaspoon kosher salt1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Heat the oil in a large saute pan. Add the bread and salt; cook over low to medium heat, tossing frequently, for 10 minutes, or until nicely browned. Add more oil as needed.
For the vinaigrette, whisk all the ingredients together.
In a large bowl, mix the tomatoes, cucumber, red pepper, yellow pepper, red onion, basil, and capers. Add the bread cubes and toss with the vinaigrette. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Serve, or allow the salad to sit for about half an hour for the flavors to blend.
Karin Brosnan- Poppyseed Fruit salad with lime dressing
Dressing:
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup frozen limeade concentrate, thawed
2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Salad:
1 cup strawberries, cut in half
1 cup cubed pineapple
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup cubed watermelon
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted, if desired
Dressing: Mix honey, limeade concentrate and poppy seeds in medium bowl.Salad: Carefully toss fruit with honey mixture. Sprinkle with almonds
Marsha Dalton- Ambrosia Chicken salad2 Oranges peeled1/2 c pineapple bits (in light syrup)2 T sweetened coconut flakes1/2 c cooked chicken (cubed)Remove pith from the oranges. Slice each section in half. Toss with canned pineapple bits. (syrup added) Add coconut, chicken and mix well. Top with a Tablespoon of sliced almonds.
Marsha Dalton- Strawberry Chicken Caesar SaladStart with a Caesar Salad kit. Open pkg put in bowl. Add deli chicken on top (from any grocery deli) Surround with 1/2 cut strawberries. Can add diced apples gives it a nice crunch.
Sarah Ortiz - Rice Salad1/2 c Italian dressing1/2 tsp salt1/2 c water1 c frozen peas1 c minute rice3 T chopped green onion1 small cucumber1/2 c mayonaise1 small bottle stuffed olives (diced)4 oz can mushrooms1 small can water chestnuts (diced)
Combine Italian dressing, salt and water bring to a boil. Pour in 1 cup of minute rice, then let cook. Add 1 cup frozen peas, barely cook the peas. Drain, Add rest of ingredients. Chill for 1 hour.
Judy Sundell - Broccoli Salad1 bunch broccoli florets10 pices cooked bacon - crumbled1 - 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese- shreddedCombine the following and mix well. Pour over above ingredients and chill.4 T mayonaise4 T sour cream2 T sugar2 T vinegarScallions - OptionalMonday, May 24, 2010
Mother's Hope Walk for Allie
The Mother's Hope Walk for Allie was a wonderful success! Many friends and ward members turned out to support this special walk for Allie Arnett and family.Here are just a few photos I took of the event.
Jocelyn Bills did a fabulous job of organizing this event and really made it special!
So many supporters...moms and dads, grandmas and grandpas, teens, kids
and even little ones in strollers :)
It was perfect temperature with the cloud cover and nice cool breeze.
So much love and support!
Friends with smiles all dressed in their shirts with pink bags!
Walkers coming in from their walk
Sisters and Friends putting their best foot forward to serve one another :)
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Popcorn Recipes!!
Here are the yummy popcorn recipes that we served at our Friendshipping activity.Robin Hunters Amazing Popcorn Recipe2 Cubes butter1/2 C Karo Syrup1 1/3 Cup SugarCook over med high heat in a small pot until it is incorporated and stir often. Once it comes to a boil ...boil for 1 min exactly. Pour over popcorn and mix it to coat. Let cool and store in covered container or serve immediately.
Italian Cheese Popcorn - Recipe
Zesty Italian flavors transform popcorn into a delicious, savory snack.
view recipe online: http://www.recipetips.com/recipe-cards/t--2425/italian-cheese-popcorn.asp
1 1/2 ounces Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese, finely grated
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon parsley flakes
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup popcorn, unpopped
3 tablespoons butter, melted
In a small bowl, combine cheese, oregano, basil, parsley flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, nd salt. Set aside.
In a large saucepan, heat oil. Add popcorn and cover pan to cook, shaking pan occasionally to ensure that the corn doesn't burn. Pour popped corn into a large shallow bowl. Drizzle popcorn with the melted butter and sprinkle on cheese mixture. Toss until coated evenly.
Serve immediately.
Chocolate PopcornMakes: 14 cups
Ready in : 1-2 hrsIngredients:12 cups popped popcorn12 ounces salted peanuts (optional)1 cup corn syrup1/4 cup butter12 ounces semisweet chocolate chipsDirections:In a large, greased, roasting pan, combine popcorn and nuts. In a large, heavy saucepan combine chocolate chips, corn syrup and butter. Cook over medium heat until mixture boils, stirring constantly. Pour over popcorn toss well to coat.Bake in a preheated 300F degree oven for 45 minutes stirring frequently.Cool completely.Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Emergency Notebooks
Here is the list of things to keep in your binders.As an extra caution we suggest you keep originals in a safety deposity box and keep your notebook at home in a safe place to protect your Identity
copies of soc. security cards,
birth cert.,
passports,
immunization records,
homeowners insurance,
life insurance,
car insurance info.,
Bank acct information-acct numbers,
mortgage information,
auto information,
titles,
deeds,
any important medical information,
college accounts info.,
health insurance info.,
copies of patriarchal blessings,
church information-records,
living will ,
and regular will,
power of attorney.
People can put either originals or copies of these in the notebook and put the originals in a safe deposit box.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Caprese Salad Recipe (Tomato Mozzarella Basil)
3 large tomatoes, sliced1 pkg. (9 oz.) Fresh Mozzarella Cheese , drained, sliced1/3 cup fresh basil3 Tbsp. olive oil2 Tbsp. Balsamic vinegar1/4 tsp. each: kosher salt and freshly ground black peppermake it
ARRANGE tomatoes, cheese and basil alternately on platter. YOu can cut basil into tiny pieces and sprinkle over the top as well.
BEAT oil and vinegar with wire whisk until well blended. Drizzle over tomatoes.
SPRINKLE with salt and pepper.
Tomato Bruschetta Recipe
Bruschetta
Great recipe to use up your fresh grown tomatoes from the garden or use up some or your food storage canned tomatoes
Simple, elegant and so flavorful, this appetizer is ready to serve in about 10 minutes!• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (use a good quality)• 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil leaves (I used 1 generous Tbsp. Gourmet Garden BasilHerb Blend from the tube)• 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped (I added a dash or two of garlic powder)16 (1/2 inch thick) slices baguette, toasted (Slice the baguette on the diagonal for largerpieces)Stir together drained tomatoes, basil, olive oil and garlic.Spoon mixture onto toasted bread slices. Serve immediately
By- Janice Pascoe from the internet at Cooks.comGrowing Tomatoes in Texas Tips
Growing Tomatoes by Marilyn Jensen
Ten Steps to Terrific Tomatoes:- Prepare the garden spot. Remove weeds. Break up clods.
- Amend the soil. Add compost and peat moss to loosen up the clay and add nutrients.
- Put down weed block.
- Plant the tomato plants deep. You can bury some of the leaves, and roots will form along the stem.
- Place tomato cages over the plants to provide support as the tomatoes grow.
- Water regularly to prevent blossom end rot. However, over watering can cause root rot and fungus.
- You may pinch off bottom leaves if they begin to yellow or spot.
- Watch for horn worms and other pests. Horn worms can be removed by hand. Sevin can be used on smaller bugs, but it must be reapplied after rain or sprinkling.
- If you have problems with birds eating your tomatoes, you can cover the cages with nets or inexpensive tulle from the fabric store.
- Pick, wash and enjoy!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Canned Tomato and Corn Salad!
This is one of the yummy things we had at our Relief Society Meeting the other night!Delish!
Recipe3 (11ounce) cans whole kernal corn (drain a little bit off)2 (14ounce) cans of petite diced tomatoes (do not drain)
1 large sweet onion cut into thin strips (I did not use any)4 green onions chopped1 cucumber (seeded and chopped)1 bunch cilantro minced into tiny pieces2 limes, juiced1/3 cup rice vinegarkosher salt to tasteIn a large bowl, combine corn, tomatoes, sweet onion, green onion and cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over mixure adn mix in. Stir in rice vinegar to taste; the amount you use depends on the sweetness of the corn. and the acidity of the lime. Season with kosher salt. Cover and chill for 45 min to an hour before serving.You could add olives, or avocado or anything you like. It is kind of like a salsa and a salad all in one.Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Preparedness Easier Than You Think!
Mark your calendar for Tues. April 13th at 7PM! at Penny Hawkins HomeA fun evening on Preparedness!
Penny Hawkins will teach us what to put in an emergency notebook so you can grab it in an emergency and go! In it will be important papers..like insurance info, phone numbers, copies of important documents! We will have a sign up that evening for those that would like to purchase the notebook and the plastic covers.
Jessica Quenzer has converted many of her families favorite recipes into recipes that use only canned foods! She will show how to do it and share her recipes with us!
Marilyn Jensen and Sandi Arnold will share their secrets on how to grow tomatoes in our own backyards!
Plus sample some delicious salsas, salads and appetizers all made with tomatoes! We will have the recipes available that nightand we will post them here on the blog as well.
Come and bring a friend...it will be well worth your time.Friday, April 2, 2010
Adorbale Easter Centerpiece Idea from Allie!
This is a fabulous idea for an Easter Centerpiece using what you have!Allie found some branches out on the path by the creek, and got out some hydrangea silk flowers--that she already had.
Allie picked the individual flowers off the stems, and hot glued one to the branch, then another one to the back of it to "hide" the little plastic hole in the back of the flower.
Then Allie recieved the cute decoreative Easter eggs from her sister who got them at Tia Pan. (You could use real Dyed Eggs) The price tag was still on them, they were $3.95, as well as the little rabbit.
Allie used some leftover jute that was originally used to tie a little bag closed for the grass in the vase.
She just looped it into a circle and pushed it into the bottom of the vase, and put the eggs in then stuck the branches in between.
She got the table runner from Kohl's after Easter one year on clearance, and the candle holders she pulled out of the cupboard and stuck an egg on each one, then used a "door knocker" wreath that I picked up last year at Target's Easter clearance for 75% off.
How cute is this idea! I love it! Great job Allie!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sabbath "Can-Do" Box
I was reading in the September 2009 Ensign this morning and came across a fun idea to do with your kids on Sunday.
Put together a Sabbath "Can-Do" box.
It is a box brimming with appropriate activites for Sabbath worship.
Our family has a “can-do” box that’s brimming with appropriate activities for Sabbath worship. Over time, we’ve added or rotated many things, but we started with just a few dress-up items. It all began when we saw a Sunday dress-up box that one of our ward members had. The children absolutely loved it because they could reenact scripture stories in costume. Simple props like a bathrobe; an old dress; a child’s plastic sword, shield, and armor; and many other inexpensive or recycled items are possibilities.
We also wanted to encourage letter writing, so we added a container of writing supplies. We included addressed envelopes, stickers, and colored markers and pens.
Even our youngest child loved sending letters to ward missionaries and family members.
Of course, we had to have a variety of wholesome games, including word searches and crossword puzzles. We even recycled leftover Primary lesson materials and old singing time props.
The children were delighted to play with these appealing teaching materials.
Be creative and customize your Sunday box with a
variety of things.
Church magazines, audiovisual materials, wholesome books—there’s so much to enjoy. If everyone in the family is invited to contribute something, your “can-do” box will be filled with wonderful activities for a Sabbath day.Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Set The Table!
Set The Table! Invite the kids to help, get out some of your fancy dishes once in awhile and enjoy family time at the dinner table. All these place settings were put together using things I had around the house.(For this centerpiece I grabbed a wreath that I usually hang on the front door and plopped it in the center with a White chicken I had in the kitchen. White plates are from Ikea $2.99 each!Cut crystal glasses are from my grandmother handed down to me.)
Does it matter whether today’s families eat dinner together?
Yes, it does. The family as an institution is under attack, and the adversary is working overtime to destroy individual families. President Gordon B. Hinckleyhas said, “All across the world families are falling apart.The place to begin to improve society is in the home.”Indeed, recent statistics reveal alarming trends in the United States and other countries of high divorce rates, children born out of wedlock, drug use and anti-social behaviors among teens and children.
(Plastic yellow pink, yellow and orange plates are from Target years ago on clearance.A white water jug holds Wal-mart flowers for the centerpiece!)
Church leaders have long counseled members to strengthen their families through family home evening, family prayer, family scripture study, and through wholesome recreational activities.(Brown placemats .25cents at Garden Ridge, a piece of fabric smooshed in the center and lantern from my mantel for the centerpiece.Knick nacks from around the house decorate the table.)
.
Because dinnertime occurs every twenty-four hours and eating together is a social activity, time spent at the dinner table also can be a significant way to strengthen family bonds.
(This centerpiece is one of the glass jars I found at a thrift store filled with fake green apples and a white candle! White Ikea plates again with lime green salad plates make them look so springy!)
Families, no matter their size or makeup, must be fed. A good dinner never just magically appears on the table. Cooking dinner does take some time and energy in planning, shopping, preparing, and cleaning up. Nevertheless, the benefits of families regularly eating dinner together in the surroundings of their own homes are significant. Counted among the benefits are economy, higher quality of food, better nutrition and portion control, more variety as well as emotional nurturing, sense of belonging, and family unity. Indeed, the cumulative effects are compelling reasons to make dinner a family event. Habitual dining practices of eating out, ordering in, skipping, or snacking may satisfy the needs of the moment but, in the long run, are detrimental to families as a whole and to their individual members.(White Chicken with an Easter wreath that I usually hang on the door.
I got out my grandmothers crystal glasses that she gave me to make the table sparkle! White Ikeaplates and lime green plates used once again)
Elder Bruce C. Hafen of the Seventy said, “A family dinner table surrounded by parents and children who share their laughter and their lives is a sacred setting, not just a place setting.”Shop your house and find things you can use to set the table.Send the kids on a scouting mission around the house to find things to use to set the table with!
(Granted it may be a star wars table but hey that could be very cool!!)Information about dining together as family is from Meridian Magazine click here
Basic Flaky Pastry Dough
This is Williams-Sonoma Pie Crust Recipe -
Joann Squires Uses this recipe for all her pies.
This makes ample crust for a 9" to 11" regulr or deep dish pie or tart. Leftover pastry may be rolled out and cut into shapes to garnish the pie, or brushed with milk, sprinkled with sugar or cinnamon and sugar and baked until lightly browned.
For A One Crust Pie:
1-1/2 c flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp baking powder
8 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut in 1/2" pieces, well chilled
2 Tbsp Shortening (Crisco), cut into 1/2" pieces well chilled
2-4 Tbsp Ice Water
For A Two Crust Pie:
3 C flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking powder
16 Tbsp Unsalted butter, cut in 1/2" pieces, well chilled
4 Tbsp shortening (Crisco), cut in 1/2" pieces well chilled
5-8 Tbsp Ice Water
Made in Food Processor:
Insert metal blade. Process flour, salt and bakin powder to quick sift, 10 seconds. Add the well chilled butter and shortening. Use short rapid pulses until the mixture resembles coarse corn meal and no pieces of butter larger than a "pea" remain visible, 15 to 20 pulses. Sprinkle half the maximum ice water on the flour and butter mixture, then pulse 5 or 6 times. The dough will be crumbly, but should begin to hold together when a small amount is picked up and pressed together. Sprinkle with more water, just enough water to hold together easily when pressed into a ball. (do not allow the dough to form a ball in the processor). Add the liquid sparingly so tha the dough is not sticky. Do not over process or the pastry will be tough, not tender and flaky.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Press together into a ball, then flattern into a disk about 6 inches in diameter. (two disks for the two crust recipe) roll dough on its sides, like a wheel so the edges are smooth. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 1 hour before continuing to allow the glutens in the flour to rest. The dough will keep refrigerated for up to 3 days, or may be frozen (double wrapped) for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature for an hour before using. Use as directed in recipe.
To prebake the pastry for a single crust filled pie or tart, roll out pastry 1/8" thick to fit pan; crimp and seal edges. Prick bottom all over with a fork. Chill for 30 min. Preheat oven to 400. Line with a sheet of aluminum foil or parchmment paper and fill with pie weights or dry rice or beans. Bake for 15 min, then remove the foil and weights and bake for another 5 min. Remove and cool on rack.Thursday, February 25, 2010
REPURPOSE- Baby jeans turned into skirt Tutorial
Baby Jeans turned into skirt - tutorial
Items needed:A pair of baby jeans (I used 3-6 mos)approx. 1/4yd of fabricsewing machineThreadDirections1. Take your jeans and check the back to see where the pockets end. Cut below the pockets all the way through so have 2 pieces (see next photo)
2. You now have two separate pieces.
Save the bottom half to make some baby booties! (see baby shoe tutorial)
Here you can see that I did cut off below the pockets.
(I cut right through the pockets so that is why I caution you)
the next photo is correct!
Measure around the total circumference of the skirt. this measured approx. 21" . Double this measurement to (42"). This new measurement will be the length you need for the skirt fabric so it will have a ruffle to it.
I cut this skirt fabric piece 5 1/2" wide and 42" length.
( I used two pieces 21" long each to get the full length)
Iron one side about 1/4" to 1/2"...This will be the side that attaches to the skirt.
On the other side make a small hem.
I turned it twice about 1/4" each time and sewed it up to make a nice hem.
Attach the two pieces together to make one long piece using your sewing machine. Then sew a gathering stitch (big stitches not tight ones) all around the ironed side and pull up all the gathers. (Pull thread so it gathers the fabric)
Pin the gathered piece of fabric to the cut off part of the jeans and sew onto the jeanss with your machine. (This is your skirt)
I added a little embellishment by making a little flower out of some scraps of burlap and skirt fabric and added a button. I hand sewed this on.
(I am not sure if the burlap will wash up ...I may have to add some no fray to the edges to protect it from unraveling)
Here is your new skirt!Great for repurposing a pair of ripped jeans or stained jeans or changing winter pants to a spring skirt. I made this for my granddaughter in this size 3-6 mos and she is still wearing it and she just turned 1!I think because of the elastic sized waist it grows with her.Plus don't forget you can make baby booties from the leg scraps(Directions are HERE)
REPURPOSE- Make baby booties out of scrap fabric -Tutorial!
Here are a few photos of some of the booties I recently made using using this pattern that you can find with all the directions HERE
Here is another site for a similar baby bootie with full instructions.
http://www.michaelmillerfabrics.com/blog/cloth_shoe.pdf
REPURPOSE- Use twigs to make a Holiday Tree for any occasion
Gather some twigs from the yard and create a fun Holiday decoration!Sandi Arnold created the fun Halloween tree for her son and got the idea and pattern from Martha Stewart's Website.http://www.marthastewart.com/article/bewitching-tree-decoration?&backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/halloween-decorating?#slide_26
Or how about an Easter tree or a Valentine's Tree.
I found this Easter Egg tree idea from Martha Stewarthttp://www.marthastewart.com/article/decorating-easter-eggsand I saw this easter egg tree here on this blog
What fun your kids can have decorating the twigs from your yard for any holiday celebration!
REPURPOSE- Use macaroni to create art with the kids!
Let your kids play with their food!
Using dried macaroni they can create all kinds of art!
This skeleton is so fun to do with the kids at Halloween time. You can see the idea on Martha Stewart's site.click below
How about colored macaroni! I found this on someone else's blog and thought is was the perfect idea to do with kids on a rainy day. Instructions for how to color your macaroni are below.
To color Macaroni
Ingredients: Macaroni, food coloring, small ziploc baggies
An easy, fun non-messy method of coloring macaroni. In a small baggie add 2 handfuls of macaroni and food coloring.
Seal the baggie and have a child shake the baggie until the macaroni is colored. Lay out on paper towels to dry.
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)Monday, February 22, 2010
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Sopapilla Cheesecake Pie- Delicious and Easy!
One of our newest members of the ward.... Amie Ivie..... shared this amazing recipe with us at our recent Card making for soldiers event. We were all raving over it! So delicious!
Sopapilla Cheesecake Pie-
It is has a crunchy cinamony top and creamy cheesecake filling and a bottom crust.
Try this you will love it.
You can go to Allrecipes and read the rave reviews on this recipe as well.
Sopapilla Cheesecake Pie
Ingredients
Directions
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Green Apple Salad and Dressing
This was the most delicious salad that we all were raving over from our card making for soldiers potluck lunch.
Jesscia Quenzer brought this salad.
Salad:
One head red leaf lettuce (sometimes I throw in a head of butter lettuce as well)
6-8 green onions, chopped
2 green apples, thinly sliced into bite sized pieces
feta cheese, to taste
craisins, to taste
toasted almonds, to taste (place almonds on cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 6-8 minutes)
Combine all salad ingredients in large bowl and toss thoroughly. Drizzle dressing (recipe below) over the salad just before serving. Mix until all greens are coated. Enjoy!
Dressing:
2 Tablespoons white wine vinegar
1/4 cup salad oil
2 Tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
I usually double the dressing recipe, to have on hand just in case. If doubled, be careful not to over saturate the greens prior to serving. I usually pour half the doubled recipe over the salad and add more if needed.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Parenting Workshop and Swap Til you Drop
Girl's Night Out
Parenting Workshop and SWAP Til You Drop!
September 7th @ 7pm
Jan Williams will be hosting a fabulous Parenting Workshop to recharge your parenting battery!
Swap Til You Drop
Start cleaning out your closets, drawers, garages and attics and bring all your items to the swap!
Remember: One friends junk is another friends treasure!
Bring your items to the church on September 7th between 9am and 11am
or before 7pm that night.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Cooking Group Salad Recipes
I am finally getting around to posting some of the recipes from our cooking group... It has been really enjoyable getting together and sharing recipes with one another. I am still missing recipes from a few people so once I get them I will post those too.
3 tablespoons good olive oil
From our Salad Cooking night-
Panzanella Salad
3 tablespoons good olive oil1 small French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (6 cups)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 large, ripe tomatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 hothouse cucumber,unpeeled, seeded, and sliced 1/2-inch thick
1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 red onion, cut in 1/2 and thinly sliced
20 large basil leaves,
Optional coarsely chopped 3 tablespoons capers, drained
For the vinaigrette: (Or use your favorite Italian dressing to save time)
For the vinaigrette: (Or use your favorite Italian dressing to save time)
1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons Champagne vinegar
1/2 cup good olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Heat the oil in a large saute pan. Add the bread and salt; cook over low to medium heat, tossing frequently, for 10 minutes, or until nicely browned. Add more oil as needed.
For the vinaigrette, whisk all the ingredients together.
In a large bowl, mix the tomatoes, cucumber, red pepper, yellow pepper, red onion, basil, and capers. Add the bread cubes and toss with the vinaigrette. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Serve, or allow the salad to sit for about half an hour for the flavors to blend.
Heat the oil in a large saute pan. Add the bread and salt; cook over low to medium heat, tossing frequently, for 10 minutes, or until nicely browned. Add more oil as needed.
For the vinaigrette, whisk all the ingredients together.
In a large bowl, mix the tomatoes, cucumber, red pepper, yellow pepper, red onion, basil, and capers. Add the bread cubes and toss with the vinaigrette. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Serve, or allow the salad to sit for about half an hour for the flavors to blend.
Karin Brosnan- Poppyseed Fruit salad with lime dressing
Dressing:
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup frozen limeade concentrate, thawed
2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Salad:
1 cup strawberries, cut in half
1 cup cubed pineapple
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup cubed watermelon
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted, if desired
Dressing: Mix honey, limeade concentrate and poppy seeds in medium bowl.Salad: Carefully toss fruit with honey mixture. Sprinkle with almonds
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup frozen limeade concentrate, thawed
2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Salad:
1 cup strawberries, cut in half
1 cup cubed pineapple
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup cubed watermelon
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted, if desired
Dressing: Mix honey, limeade concentrate and poppy seeds in medium bowl.Salad: Carefully toss fruit with honey mixture. Sprinkle with almonds
Marsha Dalton- Ambrosia Chicken salad
2 Oranges peeled
1/2 c pineapple bits (in light syrup)
2 T sweetened coconut flakes
1/2 c cooked chicken (cubed)
Remove pith from the oranges. Slice each section in half. Toss with canned pineapple bits. (syrup added) Add coconut, chicken and mix well. Top with a Tablespoon of sliced almonds.
Marsha Dalton- Strawberry Chicken Caesar Salad
Start with a Caesar Salad kit. Open pkg put in bowl. Add deli chicken on top (from any grocery deli) Surround with 1/2 cut strawberries. Can add diced apples gives it a nice crunch.Sarah Ortiz - Rice Salad
1/2 c Italian dressing
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 c water
1 c frozen peas
1 c minute rice
3 T chopped green onion
1 small cucumber
1/2 c mayonaise
1 small bottle stuffed olives (diced)
4 oz can mushrooms
1 small can water chestnuts (diced)
Combine Italian dressing, salt and water bring to a boil. Pour in 1 cup of minute rice, then let cook. Add 1 cup frozen peas, barely cook the peas. Drain, Add rest of ingredients. Chill for 1 hour.
Judy Sundell - Broccoli Salad
1 bunch broccoli florets
10 pices cooked bacon - crumbled
1 - 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese- shredded
Combine the following and mix well. Pour over above ingredients and chill.
4 T mayonaise
4 T sour cream
2 T sugar
2 T vinegar
Scallions - Optional
Monday, May 24, 2010
Mother's Hope Walk for Allie
The Mother's Hope Walk for Allie was a wonderful success! Many friends and ward members turned out to support this special walk for Allie Arnett and family.
Here are just a few photos I took of the event.
Jocelyn Bills did a fabulous job of organizing this event and really made it special!So many supporters...moms and dads, grandmas and grandpas, teens, kids
and even little ones in strollers :)It was perfect temperature with the cloud cover and nice cool breeze.
So much love and support!Friends with smiles all dressed in their shirts with pink bags!Walkers coming in from their walkSisters and Friends putting their best foot forward to serve one another :)
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Popcorn Recipes!!
Here are the yummy popcorn recipes that we served at our Friendshipping activity.
Robin Hunters Amazing Popcorn Recipe
2 Cubes butter
1/2 C Karo Syrup
1 1/3 Cup Sugar
Cook over med high heat in a small pot until it is incorporated and stir often. Once it comes to a boil ...boil for 1 min exactly. Pour over popcorn and mix it to coat. Let cool and store in covered container or serve immediately.
Italian Cheese Popcorn - Recipe
Zesty Italian flavors transform popcorn into a delicious, savory snack.
view recipe online: http://www.recipetips.com/recipe-cards/t--2425/italian-cheese-popcorn.asp
1 1/2 ounces Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese, finely grated
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon parsley flakes
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup popcorn, unpopped
3 tablespoons butter, melted
In a small bowl, combine cheese, oregano, basil, parsley flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, nd salt. Set aside.
In a large saucepan, heat oil. Add popcorn and cover pan to cook, shaking pan occasionally to ensure that the corn doesn't burn. Pour popped corn into a large shallow bowl. Drizzle popcorn with the melted butter and sprinkle on cheese mixture. Toss until coated evenly.
Serve immediately.
Chocolate Popcorn
Makes: 14 cups
Ready in : 1-2 hrs
Ready in : 1-2 hrs
Ingredients:
12 cups popped popcorn12 ounces salted peanuts (optional)
1 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup butter
12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
Directions:In a large, greased, roasting pan, combine popcorn and nuts. In a large, heavy saucepan combine chocolate chips, corn syrup and butter. Cook over medium heat until mixture boils, stirring constantly. Pour over popcorn toss well to coat.
Bake in a preheated 300F degree oven for 45 minutes stirring frequently.
Cool completely.
Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Emergency Notebooks
Here is the list of things to keep in your binders.
As an extra caution we suggest you keep originals in a safety deposity box and keep your notebook at home in a safe place to protect your Identity
copies of soc. security cards,
birth cert.,
passports,
immunization records,
homeowners insurance,
life insurance,
car insurance info.,
Bank acct information-acct numbers,
mortgage information,
auto information,
titles,
deeds,
any important medical information,
college accounts info.,
health insurance info.,
copies of patriarchal blessings,
church information-records,
living will ,
and regular will,
power of attorney.
People can put either originals or copies of these in the notebook and put the originals in a safe deposit box.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Caprese Salad Recipe (Tomato Mozzarella Basil)
3 large tomatoes, sliced
1 pkg. (9 oz.) Fresh Mozzarella Cheese , drained, sliced
1/3 cup fresh basil
3 Tbsp. olive oil
2 Tbsp. Balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp. each: kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
make it
ARRANGE tomatoes, cheese and basil alternately on platter. YOu can cut basil into tiny pieces and sprinkle over the top as well.
BEAT oil and vinegar with wire whisk until well blended. Drizzle over tomatoes.
SPRINKLE with salt and pepper.
Tomato Bruschetta Recipe
Bruschetta
Great recipe to use up your fresh grown tomatoes from the garden or use up some or your food storage canned tomatoes
Simple, elegant and so flavorful, this appetizer is ready to serve in about 10 minutes!
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (use a good quality)
• 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil leaves (I used 1 generous Tbsp. Gourmet Garden Basil
Herb Blend from the tube)
• 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped (I added a dash or two of garlic powder)
16 (1/2 inch thick) slices baguette, toasted (Slice the baguette on the diagonal for larger
pieces)
Stir together drained tomatoes, basil, olive oil and garlic.
Spoon mixture onto toasted bread slices. Serve immediately
By- Janice Pascoe from the internet at Cooks.com
Growing Tomatoes in Texas Tips
Growing Tomatoes by Marilyn Jensen
Ten Steps to Terrific Tomatoes:
- Prepare the garden spot. Remove weeds. Break up clods.
- Amend the soil. Add compost and peat moss to loosen up the clay and add nutrients.
- Put down weed block.
- Plant the tomato plants deep. You can bury some of the leaves, and roots will form along the stem.
- Place tomato cages over the plants to provide support as the tomatoes grow.
- Water regularly to prevent blossom end rot. However, over watering can cause root rot and fungus.
- You may pinch off bottom leaves if they begin to yellow or spot.
- Watch for horn worms and other pests. Horn worms can be removed by hand. Sevin can be used on smaller bugs, but it must be reapplied after rain or sprinkling.
- If you have problems with birds eating your tomatoes, you can cover the cages with nets or inexpensive tulle from the fabric store.
- Pick, wash and enjoy!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Canned Tomato and Corn Salad!
This is one of the yummy things we had at our Relief Society Meeting the other night!
Delish!Recipe
Recipe3 (11ounce) cans whole kernal corn (drain a little bit off)
2 (14ounce) cans of petite diced tomatoes (do not drain)
1 large sweet onion cut into thin strips (I did not use any)
1 large sweet onion cut into thin strips (I did not use any)
4 green onions chopped
1 cucumber (seeded and chopped)
1 bunch cilantro minced into tiny pieces
2 limes, juiced
1/3 cup rice vinegar
kosher salt to taste
In a large bowl, combine corn, tomatoes, sweet onion, green onion and cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over mixure adn mix in. Stir in rice vinegar to taste; the amount you use depends on the sweetness of the corn. and the acidity of the lime. Season with kosher salt. Cover and chill for 45 min to an hour before serving.
You could add olives, or avocado or anything you like. It is kind of like a salsa and a salad all in one.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Preparedness Easier Than You Think!
Mark your calendar for Tues. April 13th at 7PM! at Penny Hawkins Home
A fun evening on Preparedness!Penny Hawkins will teach us what to put in an emergency notebook so you can grab it in an emergency and go! In it will be important papers..like insurance info, phone numbers, copies of important documents! We will have a sign up that evening for those that would like to purchase the notebook and the plastic covers.
Jessica Quenzer has converted many of her families favorite recipes into recipes that use only canned foods! She will show how to do it and share her recipes with us!
Marilyn Jensen and Sandi Arnold will share their secrets on how to grow tomatoes in our own backyards!
Plus sample some delicious salsas, salads and appetizers all made with tomatoes! We will have the recipes available that nightand we will post them here on the blog as well.
Come and bring a friend...it will be well worth your time.
Penny Hawkins will teach us what to put in an emergency notebook so you can grab it in an emergency and go! In it will be important papers..like insurance info, phone numbers, copies of important documents! We will have a sign up that evening for those that would like to purchase the notebook and the plastic covers.Jessica Quenzer has converted many of her families favorite recipes into recipes that use only canned foods! She will show how to do it and share her recipes with us!
Marilyn Jensen and Sandi Arnold will share their secrets on how to grow tomatoes in our own backyards!
Plus sample some delicious salsas, salads and appetizers all made with tomatoes! We will have the recipes available that nightand we will post them here on the blog as well.
Come and bring a friend...it will be well worth your time.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Adorbale Easter Centerpiece Idea from Allie!
This is a fabulous idea for an Easter Centerpiece using what you have!
Allie found some branches out on the path by the creek, and got out some hydrangea silk flowers--that she already had.Allie picked the individual flowers off the stems, and hot glued one to the branch, then another one to the back of it to "hide" the little plastic hole in the back of the flower.Then Allie recieved the cute decoreative Easter eggs from her sister who got them at Tia Pan. (You could use real Dyed Eggs) The price tag was still on them, they were $3.95, as well as the little rabbit.
Allie picked the individual flowers off the stems, and hot glued one to the branch, then another one to the back of it to "hide" the little plastic hole in the back of the flower.Then Allie recieved the cute decoreative Easter eggs from her sister who got them at Tia Pan. (You could use real Dyed Eggs) The price tag was still on them, they were $3.95, as well as the little rabbit.Allie used some leftover jute that was originally used to tie a little bag closed for the grass in the vase.She just looped it into a circle and pushed it into the bottom of the vase, and put the eggs in then stuck the branches in between.
She just looped it into a circle and pushed it into the bottom of the vase, and put the eggs in then stuck the branches in between.She got the table runner from Kohl's after Easter one year on clearance, and the candle holders she pulled out of the cupboard and stuck an egg on each one, then used a "door knocker" wreath that I picked up last year at Target's Easter clearance for 75% off.
How cute is this idea! I love it! Great job Allie!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sabbath "Can-Do" Box
I was reading in the September 2009 Ensign this morning and came across a fun idea to do with your kids on Sunday.
Put together a Sabbath "Can-Do" box.
It is a box brimming with appropriate activites for Sabbath worship.
Our family has a “can-do” box that’s brimming with appropriate activities for Sabbath worship. Over time, we’ve added or rotated many things, but we started with just a few dress-up items. It all began when we saw a Sunday dress-up box that one of our ward members had. The children absolutely loved it because they could reenact scripture stories in costume. Simple props like a bathrobe; an old dress; a child’s plastic sword, shield, and armor; and many other inexpensive or recycled items are possibilities.
We also wanted to encourage letter writing, so we added a container of writing supplies. We included addressed envelopes, stickers, and colored markers and pens.
We also wanted to encourage letter writing, so we added a container of writing supplies. We included addressed envelopes, stickers, and colored markers and pens.
Even our youngest child loved sending letters to ward missionaries and family members.
Of course, we had to have a variety of wholesome games, including word searches and crossword puzzles. We even recycled leftover Primary lesson materials and old singing time props.
Of course, we had to have a variety of wholesome games, including word searches and crossword puzzles. We even recycled leftover Primary lesson materials and old singing time props.
The children were delighted to play with these appealing teaching materials.
Be creative and customize your Sunday box with a
Be creative and customize your Sunday box with a
variety of things.
Church magazines, audiovisual materials, wholesome books—there’s so much to enjoy. If everyone in the family is invited to contribute something, your “can-do” box will be filled with wonderful activities for a Sabbath day.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Set The Table!
Set The Table! Invite the kids to help, get out some of your fancy dishes once in awhile and enjoy family time at the dinner table. All these place settings were put together using things I had around the house.
(For this centerpiece I grabbed a wreath that I usually hang on the front door and plopped it in the center with a White chicken I had in the kitchen. White plates are from Ikea $2.99 each!
Cut crystal glasses are from my grandmother handed down to me.)
Does it matter whether today’s families eat dinner together?
Yes, it does. The family as an institution is under attack, and the adversary is working overtime to destroy individual families. President Gordon B. Hinckleyhas said, “All across the world families are falling apart.
Does it matter whether today’s families eat dinner together?
Yes, it does. The family as an institution is under attack, and the adversary is working overtime to destroy individual families. President Gordon B. Hinckleyhas said, “All across the world families are falling apart.
The place to begin to improve society is in the home.”Indeed, recent statistics reveal alarming trends in the United States and other countries of high divorce rates, children born out of wedlock, drug use and anti-social behaviors among teens and children.
(Plastic yellow pink, yellow and orange plates are from Target years ago on clearance.
A white water jug holds Wal-mart flowers for the centerpiece!)
Church leaders have long counseled members to strengthen their families through family home evening, family prayer, family scripture study, and through wholesome recreational activities.(Brown placemats .25cents at Garden Ridge, a piece of fabric smooshed in the center and lantern from my mantel for the centerpiece.
Knick nacks from around the house decorate the table.)
.Because dinnertime occurs every twenty-four hours and eating together is a social activity, time spent at the dinner table also can be a significant way to strengthen family bonds.
(This centerpiece is one of the glass jars I found at a thrift store filled with fake green apples and a white candle! White Ikea plates again with lime green salad plates make them look so springy!)
Because dinnertime occurs every twenty-four hours and eating together is a social activity, time spent at the dinner table also can be a significant way to strengthen family bonds. (This centerpiece is one of the glass jars I found at a thrift store filled with fake green apples and a white candle! White Ikea plates again with lime green salad plates make them look so springy!)
Families, no matter their size or makeup, must be fed. A good dinner never just magically appears on the table. Cooking dinner does take some time and energy in planning, shopping, preparing, and cleaning up. Nevertheless, the benefits of families regularly eating dinner together in the surroundings of their own homes are significant. Counted among the benefits are economy, higher quality of food, better nutrition and portion control, more variety as well as emotional nurturing, sense of belonging, and family unity. Indeed, the cumulative effects are compelling reasons to make dinner a family event. Habitual dining practices of eating out, ordering in, skipping, or snacking may satisfy the needs of the moment but, in the long run, are detrimental to families as a whole and to their individual members.
(White Chicken with an Easter wreath that I usually hang on the door.
I got out my grandmothers crystal glasses that she gave me to make the table sparkle! White Ikeaplates and lime green plates used once again)
Elder Bruce C. Hafen of the Seventy said, “A family dinner table surrounded by parents and children who share their laughter and their lives is a sacred setting, not just a place setting.”
I got out my grandmothers crystal glasses that she gave me to make the table sparkle! White Ikeaplates and lime green plates used once again)
Elder Bruce C. Hafen of the Seventy said, “A family dinner table surrounded by parents and children who share their laughter and their lives is a sacred setting, not just a place setting.”Shop your house and find things you can use to set the table.
Send the kids on a scouting mission around the house to find things to use to set the table with!
(Granted it may be a star wars table but hey that could be very cool!!)
(Granted it may be a star wars table but hey that could be very cool!!)
Information about dining together as family is from Meridian Magazine click here
Basic Flaky Pastry Dough
This is Williams-Sonoma Pie Crust Recipe -
Joann Squires Uses this recipe for all her pies.
This makes ample crust for a 9" to 11" regulr or deep dish pie or tart. Leftover pastry may be rolled out and cut into shapes to garnish the pie, or brushed with milk, sprinkled with sugar or cinnamon and sugar and baked until lightly browned.
For A One Crust Pie:
1-1/2 c flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp baking powder
8 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut in 1/2" pieces, well chilled
2 Tbsp Shortening (Crisco), cut into 1/2" pieces well chilled
2-4 Tbsp Ice Water
For A Two Crust Pie:
3 C flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking powder
16 Tbsp Unsalted butter, cut in 1/2" pieces, well chilled
4 Tbsp shortening (Crisco), cut in 1/2" pieces well chilled
5-8 Tbsp Ice Water
Made in Food Processor:
Insert metal blade. Process flour, salt and bakin powder to quick sift, 10 seconds. Add the well chilled butter and shortening. Use short rapid pulses until the mixture resembles coarse corn meal and no pieces of butter larger than a "pea" remain visible, 15 to 20 pulses. Sprinkle half the maximum ice water on the flour and butter mixture, then pulse 5 or 6 times. The dough will be crumbly, but should begin to hold together when a small amount is picked up and pressed together. Sprinkle with more water, just enough water to hold together easily when pressed into a ball. (do not allow the dough to form a ball in the processor). Add the liquid sparingly so tha the dough is not sticky. Do not over process or the pastry will be tough, not tender and flaky.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Press together into a ball, then flattern into a disk about 6 inches in diameter. (two disks for the two crust recipe) roll dough on its sides, like a wheel so the edges are smooth. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 1 hour before continuing to allow the glutens in the flour to rest. The dough will keep refrigerated for up to 3 days, or may be frozen (double wrapped) for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature for an hour before using. Use as directed in recipe.
To prebake the pastry for a single crust filled pie or tart, roll out pastry 1/8" thick to fit pan; crimp and seal edges. Prick bottom all over with a fork. Chill for 30 min. Preheat oven to 400. Line with a sheet of aluminum foil or parchmment paper and fill with pie weights or dry rice or beans. Bake for 15 min, then remove the foil and weights and bake for another 5 min. Remove and cool on rack.
Joann Squires Uses this recipe for all her pies.
This makes ample crust for a 9" to 11" regulr or deep dish pie or tart. Leftover pastry may be rolled out and cut into shapes to garnish the pie, or brushed with milk, sprinkled with sugar or cinnamon and sugar and baked until lightly browned.
For A One Crust Pie:
1-1/2 c flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp baking powder
8 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut in 1/2" pieces, well chilled
2 Tbsp Shortening (Crisco), cut into 1/2" pieces well chilled
2-4 Tbsp Ice Water
For A Two Crust Pie:
3 C flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking powder
16 Tbsp Unsalted butter, cut in 1/2" pieces, well chilled
4 Tbsp shortening (Crisco), cut in 1/2" pieces well chilled
5-8 Tbsp Ice Water
Made in Food Processor:
Insert metal blade. Process flour, salt and bakin powder to quick sift, 10 seconds. Add the well chilled butter and shortening. Use short rapid pulses until the mixture resembles coarse corn meal and no pieces of butter larger than a "pea" remain visible, 15 to 20 pulses. Sprinkle half the maximum ice water on the flour and butter mixture, then pulse 5 or 6 times. The dough will be crumbly, but should begin to hold together when a small amount is picked up and pressed together. Sprinkle with more water, just enough water to hold together easily when pressed into a ball. (do not allow the dough to form a ball in the processor). Add the liquid sparingly so tha the dough is not sticky. Do not over process or the pastry will be tough, not tender and flaky.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Press together into a ball, then flattern into a disk about 6 inches in diameter. (two disks for the two crust recipe) roll dough on its sides, like a wheel so the edges are smooth. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 1 hour before continuing to allow the glutens in the flour to rest. The dough will keep refrigerated for up to 3 days, or may be frozen (double wrapped) for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature for an hour before using. Use as directed in recipe.
To prebake the pastry for a single crust filled pie or tart, roll out pastry 1/8" thick to fit pan; crimp and seal edges. Prick bottom all over with a fork. Chill for 30 min. Preheat oven to 400. Line with a sheet of aluminum foil or parchmment paper and fill with pie weights or dry rice or beans. Bake for 15 min, then remove the foil and weights and bake for another 5 min. Remove and cool on rack.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
REPURPOSE- Baby jeans turned into skirt Tutorial
Baby Jeans turned into skirt - tutorial
Items needed:A pair of baby jeans (I used 3-6 mos)
approx. 1/4yd of fabric
sewing machine
Thread
Directions
1. Take your jeans and check the back to see where the pockets end. Cut below the pockets all the way through so have 2 pieces (see next photo)
2. You now have two separate pieces.
Save the bottom half to make some baby booties! (see baby shoe tutorial)
Here you can see that I did cut off below the pockets.
(I cut right through the pockets so that is why I caution you)
the next photo is correct!
Measure around the total circumference of the skirt. this measured approx. 21" . Double this measurement to (42"). This new measurement will be the length you need for the skirt fabric so it will have a ruffle to it.
I cut this skirt fabric piece 5 1/2" wide and 42" length.
( I used two pieces 21" long each to get the full length)
Iron one side about 1/4" to 1/2"...This will be the side that attaches to the skirt.
On the other side make a small hem.
I turned it twice about 1/4" each time and sewed it up to make a nice hem.
Attach the two pieces together to make one long piece using your sewing machine. Then sew a gathering stitch (big stitches not tight ones) all around the ironed side and pull up all the gathers. (Pull thread so it gathers the fabric)
Pin the gathered piece of fabric to the cut off part of the jeans and sew onto the jeanss with your machine. (This is your skirt)
I added a little embellishment by making a little flower out of some scraps of burlap and skirt fabric and added a button. I hand sewed this on.
(I am not sure if the burlap will wash up ...I may have to add some no fray to the edges to protect it from unraveling)
Here is your new skirt!
Great for repurposing a pair of ripped jeans or stained jeans or changing winter pants to a spring skirt. I made this for my granddaughter in this size 3-6 mos and she is still wearing it and she just turned 1!
I think because of the elastic sized waist it grows with her.
Plus don't forget you can make baby booties from the leg scraps
(Directions are HERE)
REPURPOSE- Make baby booties out of scrap fabric -Tutorial!
Here are a few photos of some of the booties I recently made using using this pattern that you can find with all the directions HERE
Here is another site for a similar baby bootie with full instructions.
http://www.michaelmillerfabrics.com/blog/cloth_shoe.pdf
Here is another site for a similar baby bootie with full instructions.
http://www.michaelmillerfabrics.com/blog/cloth_shoe.pdf
REPURPOSE- Use twigs to make a Holiday Tree for any occasion
Gather some twigs from the yard and create a fun Holiday decoration!
Sandi Arnold created the fun Halloween tree for her son and got the idea and pattern from Martha Stewart's Website.
http://www.marthastewart.com/article/bewitching-tree-decoration?&backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/halloween-decorating?#slide_26Or how about an Easter tree or a Valentine's Tree.I found this Easter Egg tree idea from Martha Stewarthttp://www.marthastewart.com/article/decorating-easter-eggs
Or how about an Easter tree or a Valentine's Tree.I found this Easter Egg tree idea from Martha Stewarthttp://www.marthastewart.com/article/decorating-easter-eggsand I saw this easter egg tree here on this blog
What fun your kids can have decorating the twigs from your yard for any holiday celebration!
REPURPOSE- Use macaroni to create art with the kids!
Let your kids play with their food!
Using dried macaroni they can create all kinds of art!
This skeleton is so fun to do with the kids at Halloween time. You can see the idea on Martha Stewart's site.
click below
How about colored macaroni! I found this on someone else's blog and thought is was the perfect idea to do with kids on a rainy day. Instructions for how to color your macaroni are below.
To color Macaroni
Ingredients: Macaroni, food coloring, small ziploc baggies
An easy, fun non-messy method of coloring macaroni. In a small baggie add 2 handfuls of macaroni and food coloring.
Seal the baggie and have a child shake the baggie until the macaroni is colored. Lay out on paper towels to dry.
REPURPOSE - Turn T-shirts into Cardigans
Take a long sleeved T-shirt and turn it into a cardigan with 3/4 sleeves with hardly any sewing!
Lay your long sleeved T-shirt flat and measure from side to side to find the exact middle (or eyeball it like I did)
Draw a line up the center with a piece of chalk
Cut down the center to open up the front. Then cut off some of the sleeves to your desired length for a 3/4 sleeve or even a short sleeve cardigan! I did not sew anything! I left the edges raw because T-shirt fabric does not ravel. How simple is that.
I decided to use the extra sleeve fabric and make a simple little flower to add to the cardian and sewed it on with a button! It does not get any easier than that!
I love the fact that the cardigan is so light weight and can even be worn in the summer.This little cardigan idea is so great to wear over a tank top for modesty.
You can do this for little girls, teen girls and women! I Love it.
REPURPOSE- Make Bunnies out of washcloths
Here is a very cute idea for Easter! Make little bunnies out of washcloths to put in your childs Easter basket or use for decoration around the house and hide Easter Eggs in them for your child to find.
Here you will find a great tutorial on how to make them
http://elisabeth-dixiedoodles.blogspot.com/2009/04/bunny-washcloth-tutorial.html
You can even make them into Reindeer for Christmas! Just by adding some pipe cleaners for antlers.
http://elisabeth-dixiedoodles.blogspot.com/2009/04/bunny-washcloth-tutorial.html
You can even make them into Reindeer for Christmas! Just by adding some pipe cleaners for antlers.REPURPOSE- Make a quilt out of baby clothes or T-shirts
Make a baby quilt out of onsies as a keepsake for a child
Or
Use your childs favorite T-shirts when they out grow them and turn them into a Quilt
Vicki Key made this quilt for her niece out of her old onsies. It is so cute and so soft. For the backing Vicki used one of her receiving blankets!
This is a great way to use old baby clothing and make a beautiful keepsake that can be passed down from generation to generation.
This is such a great idea esepecially if these onsies had stains on them or rips and were ready to be thrown out.
This is such a great idea esepecially if these onsies had stains on them or rips and were ready to be thrown out.Cut out the best parts and turn it into something special!
Save even the little pockets off of a sleeper to use in your quilt
Vicki also created the huge quilt out of favorite old T-shirts and pajama pants!
It is a way to preserve a favorite T-shirt for a long time!
Another idea is to turn them into Pillows for their beds or just to lay on to watch T.V.
Vicki also created the huge quilt out of favorite old T-shirts and pajama pants!It is a way to preserve a favorite T-shirt for a long time!Another idea is to turn them into Pillows for their beds or just to lay on to watch T.V.REPURPOSE SWEATERS- Add ruffles to a sweater
Take a plain sweater and make it more feminine by
adding some ruffles around the collar!
I used the same process as this tutorial from
These photos are from her site so you can see the three circles better.
You cut out 3 circles.... large, med and small
Hand sew them together with just a few stitches
Hand sew them together with just a few stitchesto make a little rosette.
Then you hand stitch them around the collar
Then you hand stitch them around the collarand when they are all together it creates a beautiful ruffle.
I purchased approx. 1/4 yrd crinkled chiffon from
Joann Fabrics and had plenty of left overs.
Please go check out TEA ROSE Tutorial to see the beautiful T-shirt she created as well as all the other amazing things she has created.
REPURPOSE AN OLD BOOK - Wreath made from Old Paperback Book
Here is the wreath that I made from an old paperback book. I found the directions on how to make one here on
I made this one for my sister and she decided to keep it up all year long.
This is another one I made at Christmas time and added small colorful ball ornaments.
I had this one hanging from my mirror in the dining room and I used plastic gold ball ornaments (in case it dropped it wouldn't shatter the balls)
Use your own creativity and add all kinds of extra things to your wreath or just leave it plain for a fun look.
I had this one hanging from my mirror in the dining room and I used plastic gold ball ornaments (in case it dropped it wouldn't shatter the balls)
Use your own creativity and add all kinds of extra things to your wreath or just leave it plain for a fun look.REPURPOSING!! Use it up, Wear it out, Make it do, or do without!
Use it up, Wear it out, Make it do, or Do without!! For the next little while we will be focusing on
Repurposing things and being Thrify.
Coming up on Saturday Feb. 27th at the Stake Relief Society Workshop our ward will be displaying items in our booth on the topic of REPURPOSING AND THRIFTYNESS
We hope to have all the directions and links here on this blog to everything that will have been displayed.
Stay tuned for many posts fun posts about repurposing!
Burlap Heart Shaped Wreath
Burlap Heart Shaped Wreath Tutorial
Items needed:
One wire hanger or other wire
approx. 1/4 yd or so of burlap
scraps of Painters drop cloth fabric or soft canvas fabric
glue gun and glue sticks
Directions:
1. Untwist the wire hanger so that it is open.
2. Shape it into desired shape- Heart, Square or Circle
3. Cut your burlap into long strips about 3" to 4" wide.4. Start threading them onto the open ends of the hanger wire
5. Keep threading the strips on to the wire until it is the desired tightness.(I did mine fairly tight) I think I did 3 to 4 strips per side.
6. Once all the strips are on...reconnect the wires at the bottom of the wreath by using pliers to tighten it up and push the end towards the back.(No one will see this because you will attach the burlap over it with hot glue)
This is how it should look.
This is how it should look.The burlap kind of wiggles around a little bit but I think it looks better that way instead of lined perfectly lined up together.
7. With the Painters Drop cloth fabric or canvas...cut long strips about 1" to 1 1/2" wide and start rolling them and twisting them into roses. (This is hard to describe but hopefully you will get it) Use hot glue to attach it along the way as you twist and roll.
8. Attach the roses to the wreath with hot glue in desired places.
9. Then take two more long strips of the canvas fabric and wind around the wreath to add a ribbon like decoration.
Add a Tie to the top with another wider piece of the canvas to hang the wreath.
Voila there you have it. Hope you have fun making one for your home.
7. With the Painters Drop cloth fabric or canvas...cut long strips about 1" to 1 1/2" wide and start rolling them and twisting them into roses. (This is hard to describe but hopefully you will get it) Use hot glue to attach it along the way as you twist and roll.8. Attach the roses to the wreath with hot glue in desired places.9. Then take two more long strips of the canvas fabric and wind around the wreath to add a ribbon like decoration.Add a Tie to the top with another wider piece of the canvas to hang the wreath.
Voila there you have it. Hope you have fun making one for your home.Monday, February 22, 2010
REPURPOSE- Use leftover fabric scraps to make American Doll Cloths
Directions for making simple doll skirts from the hems of adult skirts, dresses or shirts (for 18" American Girl Doll size dolls):
Cut off the bottom 7" inches of your skirt or dress. The hem of your skirt will become the hem of the doll skirt. Measure and cut a strip of the material 17" long. Fold under 1/4" of the unhemmed edge and iron. Fold under another 1/2" of the unhemmed edge and stitch close to the folded edge to create a casing for the elastic. Cut an 11" piece of narrow elastic.
Pin a small safety pin on one end of the elastic and use the safety pin to pull the elastic through the casing. (Make sure you don't pull it all the way through. When the unpinned edge reaches the front of the casing, stitch across the end of the casing to hold the elastic in place.)
Finish threading the elastic through the casing, remove safety pin, and stitch across the other end of the casing to hold elastic. Right sides together, stitch center back seam.
The little Jackets were made from tiny Christmas tree skirts! They already had the velcro sewed inside.
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Sunday, January 24, 2010
Canned Corn Recipes
In a medium bowl, combine black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, onion, green bell pepper, jalapeno peppers and tomatoes. Season with Italian-style salad dressing and garlic salt; mix well. Cover, and refrigerate overnight to blend flavors.
Corn chowderIngredients:
- 3 slices bacon, diced
- 3 tablespoon minced onion
- 2 1/2 cups diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 can (15 ounces) cream-style corn
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
- 2 cups milk
Preparation:
Fry diced bacon until it begins to brown; add onion and saute until onion is tender. Add potatoes, celery, carrot, and boiling water. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally. Add salt, pepper, corn, and milk. Bring just to the boil. Serve immediately.
Serves 4 to 6.
In a medium bowl, combine black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, onion, green bell pepper, jalapeno peppers and tomatoes. Season with Italian-style salad dressing and garlic salt; mix well. Cover, and refrigerate overnight to blend flavors.
Serves 4 to 6.
Visiting Teaching Conference Camp
Sisters we just wanted to make sure you are all aware of our
V.T.C. (Visiting Teaching Conference) CAMP on
Tues. Feb 2nd at 7PM
Come casual, bring a flashlight and a campchair if you have one.
Don't forget to bring gently used clothing, home decor, toys for for the SWAP.
You can drop things off at the church Tues. morning from 9:30am to 12Noon or 5pm to 6pm Tues evening before our Camp.
Come for a fun evening all about Visiting Teaching and a SWAP!
Childcare will be available and refreshments will be served.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Pumpkin Ginger Waffles and Other Delicious Pumpkin Recipes
I love anything pumpkin!
I found this delicious Pumpkin Ginger Waffle recipe in the October 2009 issue of Country Living Magazine 
I made some this morning.
Scrumptious!
A great way to use some of your canned pumpkin from your food storage.
Here is the recipe:
Pumpkin Ginger Waffles
Country Living 2009 Oct. Issue
1 ¼ cup flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ C finely chopped crystallized ginger (I didn’t have this so I grated 1 orange peel into the mixture)
2 large eggs
¾ C buttermilk (I didn’t have this either so I added mixed with some lemon juice)
½ C sugar
1 tsp Vanilla
3 Tbsp melted butter
Combine flour, baking powder, soda, salt, ginger and cinnamon in a bowl. (If using the crtystalized ginger remove 2 Tbsp of flour mixture and toss it together and then set aside. Whisk eggs, buttermilk, pumpkin, sugar and vanilla in another bowl.
Combine flour with pumpkin mixture. Stir in butter and fold in crystallized ginger mixture (if using). Do not overmix. Heat waffle iron and drop about ½ cup batter per each one.
Makes 5 -five inch round waffles.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
USE A CAN OF CHILI IN MANY FUN WAYS!!
Stock up on cans of chili in your food storage and you can make some of these great meals/appetizers in minutes.
Cheesey Chili Cups
1 15 oz can Chili
8 oz can refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1/2 cup shredded cheese
1 15 oz can Chili8 oz can refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1/2 cup shredded cheese
Guacamole, Sour Cream (If Desired)
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Separate biscuits; press each into an ungreased muffin cup so that dough goes up to the top edge of the cup on all sides.
Divide the chili equally among the 8 dough cups.
Sprinkle each with an equal amount of cheese.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cups are golden brown.
Serves 8.
Serve with Guacamole and sour cream (if desired)
Tip: Use a mini muffin pan and seperate the biscuit dough in smaller sized portions and make mini Chili puffs for appetizers. Great football watching food!
Kids Chili in a Bag
1 can of favorite chili or homemade
Small 1 1/4 ounce bags of corn chips
Let guests serve themselves by opening 1 bag of corn chips and topping with generous 1/3 cup chili, some cheese, lettuce and sour cream.
Fun for the kids!
or
Piccadilli Pizzas
1 15 oz can Chili
1/2 tsp oregano
4 split English muffins
8 pats butter
8 tomato slices
1/2 cup chopped green onion
Heat together the chili and oregano. Toast and spread English muffins with butter, top with tomato slices, chili and green onion.
1 15 oz can Chili
1/2 tsp oregano
4 split English muffins
8 pats butter
8 tomato slices
1/2 cup chopped green onion
Heat together the chili and oregano. Toast and spread English muffins with butter, top with tomato slices, chili and green onion.
Mexican Chili Cheese Dip
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
1 can Hormel chili with no beans (or home-made chili)
1 sm. yellow onion
(1/2 c.)3 green chili peppers, chopped into rings
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheeseChips
Mash and break up cream cheese into bottom of glass pie dish with a fork.
Top with chili, then a layer of onions and chili peppers.
Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Cover and refrigerate.
When ready to serve, microwave on High for 5 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips, salsa, and a side dish of sour cream garnished with a sprig of cilantro or parsley.
Top with chili, then a layer of onions and chili peppers.
Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Cover and refrigerate.
When ready to serve, microwave on High for 5 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips, salsa, and a side dish of sour cream garnished with a sprig of cilantro or parsley.
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