tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81260494613874882842024-03-05T10:53:32.248-08:00KRavenAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-32838246971361961822013-06-15T15:59:00.001-07:002013-06-15T16:07:24.075-07:00Recipe Box RedoToday I went to Goodwill and found this little box on the back corner of a shelf.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtCupw_TeeQwB41rLgiAlrHbZLlYspQCNEhxuBfFTn54J417tKGWlvwkNdeyT0Yk_ayQpovn9e8mRsTmiqK1UTJ5CpZgAceHQyvUAmPHMdHdEtODh_MMNlB2yuzfvVXIaxiVWvKmWsAw/s1600/SDC15151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtCupw_TeeQwB41rLgiAlrHbZLlYspQCNEhxuBfFTn54J417tKGWlvwkNdeyT0Yk_ayQpovn9e8mRsTmiqK1UTJ5CpZgAceHQyvUAmPHMdHdEtODh_MMNlB2yuzfvVXIaxiVWvKmWsAw/s320/SDC15151.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I immediately snatched it up because I'd never seen anything like it. After studying it for a couple of minutes, I decided it definitely had some potential, so I purchased it for $2.99. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgEEew0lCHru0l6G5WPNxGK8hLU6pE0TwXoHih-BCkHIIK87L6M_Hl3026AluynJ92SMO_hG2Tn_30eN4Qhp1aXu6oGdOSPddyUYfPbCTC9syTkMnqvJJV4oT8bo25evXTs28Yf1-YZak/s1600/SDC15152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgEEew0lCHru0l6G5WPNxGK8hLU6pE0TwXoHih-BCkHIIK87L6M_Hl3026AluynJ92SMO_hG2Tn_30eN4Qhp1aXu6oGdOSPddyUYfPbCTC9syTkMnqvJJV4oT8bo25evXTs28Yf1-YZak/s320/SDC15152.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After sanding, priming, painting, and distressing it, I'm in love with the final result...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWpyAFUgDc8SXqLHp_gSpgfeBE5lHJ7dQpGf1iTuRbZGEsqgzHmJmmlnMYL2fLonh692GcQwYjlYVD_riV5vjbCNnP3bbyfgx9Oy44ABDCw2DgJTnf-Uq3ma7T8kwGN3NVyLm1lQAcBOs/s1600/SDC15153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWpyAFUgDc8SXqLHp_gSpgfeBE5lHJ7dQpGf1iTuRbZGEsqgzHmJmmlnMYL2fLonh692GcQwYjlYVD_riV5vjbCNnP3bbyfgx9Oy44ABDCw2DgJTnf-Uq3ma7T8kwGN3NVyLm1lQAcBOs/s320/SDC15153.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Isn't it great?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-S5MtKt6RvfbQoo9ES3UqTvR_9I8pD9iwj5HMQrG6Qea9ZV1acj7C6HJcz_It3et0Bh52Ntx6zWxyRf8OiDhFavJPYBxNW-eShL_0GBUXy4zUaM_UwInJl-T0w-Qq14FCTANQXqa-ME/s1600/SDC15155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-S5MtKt6RvfbQoo9ES3UqTvR_9I8pD9iwj5HMQrG6Qea9ZV1acj7C6HJcz_It3et0Bh52Ntx6zWxyRf8OiDhFavJPYBxNW-eShL_0GBUXy4zUaM_UwInJl-T0w-Qq14FCTANQXqa-ME/s320/SDC15155.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I lightly sanded the finish with a block sander to "rough it up" and used Krylon primer and black satin spray paint.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMi8bNTPGEA1h_4EgaR3fwyQ0xJpWUhIRlMqXlSxdrbiKwI0JIOgZG4SxLehyphenhyphen6x6I1FpEZw3dus0OZgJ4f7feSpDT1m28cfBIWjhuUSsteTkv3rw3EDEvIT-cI0ikuCBtajWD_4MvxFXo/s1600/SDC15157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMi8bNTPGEA1h_4EgaR3fwyQ0xJpWUhIRlMqXlSxdrbiKwI0JIOgZG4SxLehyphenhyphen6x6I1FpEZw3dus0OZgJ4f7feSpDT1m28cfBIWjhuUSsteTkv3rw3EDEvIT-cI0ikuCBtajWD_4MvxFXo/s320/SDC15157.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My husband distressed the corners by lightly sanding them when the paint was completely dry.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApBTVtUVb5LagPK2vyEAeeDm7RYfrUI2ljJzBovBcZ6csuJJGe4X2QUcw8Hnh7TL3RSSJ56vPmFjtBMDA1Ug5Aju0hB0FLHrcg6-EOWB0nEWLhlN5G57JNevRyjrLXWVIc4ryntDShqE/s1600/SDC15156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApBTVtUVb5LagPK2vyEAeeDm7RYfrUI2ljJzBovBcZ6csuJJGe4X2QUcw8Hnh7TL3RSSJ56vPmFjtBMDA1Ug5Aju0hB0FLHrcg6-EOWB0nEWLhlN5G57JNevRyjrLXWVIc4ryntDShqE/s320/SDC15156.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Plenty of room in there for yummy recipes :) One last before and after shot.....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg792IRR1uBtDAyufA0kUphg7_6uFgWEI0wri3wWV-ybuHv8AAh7TcLYJxgAZ0AnO7WSBirQ1l2UNdIN00mjjP19rChTggUgKC8rtIL_tMWjtHlBj6FQF-Eq59q1d6SAV5a5z7yHS-uj2s/s1600/Fotor0615190436.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg792IRR1uBtDAyufA0kUphg7_6uFgWEI0wri3wWV-ybuHv8AAh7TcLYJxgAZ0AnO7WSBirQ1l2UNdIN00mjjP19rChTggUgKC8rtIL_tMWjtHlBj6FQF-Eq59q1d6SAV5a5z7yHS-uj2s/s320/Fotor0615190436.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i1321.photobucket.com/albums/u555/Kati_Raven/0543ae1b-d00a-469a-a1bf-558f7d71e1ec_zps00b1cf81.jpg" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-52090780849652289452013-05-10T08:10:00.000-07:002013-05-10T08:13:34.520-07:00Special Dates SignIn the last couple of weeks, our tiny apartment has seen quite a bit of reformation! Let me just say--hallelujah the paneling is gone! But more to come on that later.<br />
<br />
As a result of the changes and the Spring cleaning I tackled, I've felt inspired to finally decorate my living room incorporating colors and ideas that I've been thinking about for quite awhile now. You've already seen t<a href="http://kravenit.blogspot.com/2013/04/diy-decorative-pillows-on-cheap.html">he pillows I made for my couch</a>. I also bought some new curtains (pictures soon!). However, there was the issue of this big blank wall behind our couch and what to put there! <br />
<br />
For awhile now, I've been loving date signs such as these:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://img0.etsystatic.com/009/3/6725453/il_570xN.416724496_rqub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/009/3/6725453/il_570xN.416724496_rqub.jpg" width="275" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img0.etsystatic.com/011/0/7293378/il_fullxfull.418859764_iuuo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/011/0/7293378/il_fullxfull.418859764_iuuo.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://geezees.com/newsite/wp-content/uploads/important-dates-love-family-sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://geezees.com/newsite/wp-content/uploads/important-dates-love-family-sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, I've already chosen what I want to hang on this big, blank wall--and I thought a sign like this would definitely compliment the look. But let me show you what I've chosen:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://shop.hobbylobby.com/assets/1/14/DimRegular/109660_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://shop.hobbylobby.com/assets/1/14/DimRegular/109660_1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Isn't this bronze/brown letter R sweet? I loved it as soon as I saw it at Hobby Lobby. Thanks to a 40% off coupon, I was able to get it for $4.99!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexXeNazrLJ4-D0Fz8bt2Fw2ycYvoSqUp6zRfXUg7HL_McMNRVzFsW_FssRfFTREazmRdDgUUzXPHxsChcwV_ngcOQKPtDWoPDhpNtND3O_xHfyP_4x9hn6SLw6AGWw9l0cdAb_OLxRjI/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexXeNazrLJ4-D0Fz8bt2Fw2ycYvoSqUp6zRfXUg7HL_McMNRVzFsW_FssRfFTREazmRdDgUUzXPHxsChcwV_ngcOQKPtDWoPDhpNtND3O_xHfyP_4x9hn6SLw6AGWw9l0cdAb_OLxRjI/s400/Picture1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Secondly, I ordered a photo canvas to hang alongside the R. Can I just say I'm in love with photo canvases and have dreamed of getting one for a long time? I had some walmart gift cards saved from Christmas time, holding out for the perfect thing to spend them on. When we got our wedding photos, I priced canvases and found out I can get this 16x20 size for only $4 out of pocket (after giftcards). Um, yes please! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So anyways, back to the dates. Don't you think it will look good hanging with the R and the Canvas above my couch? I thought so too. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I played around on <a href="http://www.picmonkey.com/">picmonkey</a> (my new favorite site) and came up with this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6lcSLYem6XM_3eFWqM5C6P70ssfthpEpSGjzDWQ_1iSwsU2CFd80xCvFSjEspzo6zVuAO5X-TsQs2jyh0Ct-KAjugFhUVMErDSAwmFoptwHwQPS9lWCuY04RkqDZHRq_haJRd2q1dLmU/s1600/DSCN4708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6lcSLYem6XM_3eFWqM5C6P70ssfthpEpSGjzDWQ_1iSwsU2CFd80xCvFSjEspzo6zVuAO5X-TsQs2jyh0Ct-KAjugFhUVMErDSAwmFoptwHwQPS9lWCuY04RkqDZHRq_haJRd2q1dLmU/s400/DSCN4708.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm so pleased with the design. Although, I must say I had to print it three different times. Ahem..first I got Devin's birthday and our engagement dates wrong. The second time, I got our wedding date wrong. Yeah... But anyways, the third time's a charm, right?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To keep everything symmetrical, I wanted to fit this into a 5x7 frame. I know its a little on the small side, but I didn't want it overpowering anything else. Here's what it looks like after I popped it in the frame:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlg-q1qTpn08IybnYfK9Ai8j088fwAf7ArU1Zs-lrkdZ0Ei-45ZFHDy3rtKac4mIdOgCuexkl9yqt-o9nZStcmT2F_8JKyFJyg67g4t-JACjaMNr0TjBbgtunB2ESCnCmsmalEVhBm_Zo/s1600/SDC15118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlg-q1qTpn08IybnYfK9Ai8j088fwAf7ArU1Zs-lrkdZ0Ei-45ZFHDy3rtKac4mIdOgCuexkl9yqt-o9nZStcmT2F_8JKyFJyg67g4t-JACjaMNr0TjBbgtunB2ESCnCmsmalEVhBm_Zo/s320/SDC15118.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What do you think? I'm picking up my canvas this afternoon so stay tuned for the finished look!</div>
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i1321.photobucket.com/albums/u555/Kati_Raven/0543ae1b-d00a-469a-a1bf-558f7d71e1ec_zps00b1cf81.jpg" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-59812754919050816352013-05-09T14:31:00.005-07:002013-05-09T14:31:57.237-07:00Tea, Honey, & The BeaverBeing sick is no fun! I woke up today with a scratchy throat, headache, and slight fever. This noon I decided to call it quits at my office and came back home to work from my couch (don't be jealous). These three items became my best friends for the remainder of the afternoon until I fell asleep and took an hour long nap...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://typophile.com/files/Lipton-Green-Tea_6366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://typophile.com/files/Lipton-Green-Tea_6366.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://storyofhoney.com/gallery/Bear-Honey-Bottle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://storyofhoney.com/gallery/Bear-Honey-Bottle.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/graphics/news3/LeaveItToBeaver_S3_e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/graphics/news3/LeaveItToBeaver_S3_e.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Pretty lousy afternoon--except for Leave it to Beaver :) Thankfully I'm feeling much better. I suppose that means I should get up and do something now!<br />
<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i1321.photobucket.com/albums/u555/Kati_Raven/0543ae1b-d00a-469a-a1bf-558f7d71e1ec_zps00b1cf81.jpg" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-67203142795386562112013-05-08T16:29:00.000-07:002013-05-08T16:31:36.717-07:00My Top Ten Favorite Things About Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqn1qGaa04Au6kPupeOzH_QDKlTqFFUzyDeGhkve1ZPvsDyhZdDmn_E9yEdexNJFtRpi3gcWrmvjSOUGsMjZ5rstimc29qPwM2LL3pbO35GCbcEtXJPJnazO5Bl9FJfDJW9NqVyW0Cps/s1600/DSC01754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqn1qGaa04Au6kPupeOzH_QDKlTqFFUzyDeGhkve1ZPvsDyhZdDmn_E9yEdexNJFtRpi3gcWrmvjSOUGsMjZ5rstimc29qPwM2LL3pbO35GCbcEtXJPJnazO5Bl9FJfDJW9NqVyW0Cps/s320/DSC01754.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Let's be honest...<br />
<br />
Spring is one of the best seasons out there! There is something so refreshing about all the greenness and new life after a long, cold winter. Especially when you think about having the whole summer still stretching before you. Love!<br />
<br />
Here are my top 10 favorite things about Spring in no particular order:<br />
<br />
1. Birds singing<br />
<br />
2. Bright green baby leaves<br />
<br />
3. Flowering trees--probably my all time favorite thing<br />
<br />
4. Thunderstorms<br />
<br />
5. Taking walks on warm evenings<br />
<br />
6. Tulips<br />
<br />
7. Open windows (before it gets too hot and the AC goes in!)<br />
<br />
8. End of all things school<br />
<br />
9. Sitting in the sun<br />
<br />
10. Longer days<br />
<br />
What are some of your favorite things about Spring?<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i1321.photobucket.com/albums/u555/Kati_Raven/0543ae1b-d00a-469a-a1bf-558f7d71e1ec_zps00b1cf81.jpg" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-41564700540828798602013-04-26T04:08:00.001-07:002013-04-26T04:15:12.799-07:00DIY Decorative Pillows--on the cheap!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1lsPNDyb5CljhMZUKF6bg8NLNOhZiTZZfzXiybbzRM7Kd7uOjthV7gk6qPj0e6p_VI2Ov9965Vth7AMlIb4U0MSPuvbmFPkdysjsuauvcl1xwye3MkDDdBdNHFR_Dn8BoMbtQTkI6Kw/s1600/SDC15103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1lsPNDyb5CljhMZUKF6bg8NLNOhZiTZZfzXiybbzRM7Kd7uOjthV7gk6qPj0e6p_VI2Ov9965Vth7AMlIb4U0MSPuvbmFPkdysjsuauvcl1xwye3MkDDdBdNHFR_Dn8BoMbtQTkI6Kw/s400/SDC15103.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Materials Needed:<br />
<br />
1 standard bed pillow ($2.50 at Walmart)<br />
Fabric (45x13 inches for one pillow)<br />
Sewing machine<br />
<br />
Start by cutting your standard bed pillow in half. Look at all the batting in there! I love thinking outside the box for materials.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFzii8y6qi0kAJua_O-fvMYQBdUYDzl1RFMT6MF_2ah2YIBj3tFeakScl_J7Sw9oSO1yq3GxOc-QJn9iPJ9CuyUglGZOo2oWdELLWC0A8NCMN2Hr0f-drX9VML2wmwCi1sohFOHKM0ZNU/s1600/SDC15094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFzii8y6qi0kAJua_O-fvMYQBdUYDzl1RFMT6MF_2ah2YIBj3tFeakScl_J7Sw9oSO1yq3GxOc-QJn9iPJ9CuyUglGZOo2oWdELLWC0A8NCMN2Hr0f-drX9VML2wmwCi1sohFOHKM0ZNU/s400/SDC15094.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Next, sew the open end of the pillow shut. You'll need to stuff and squish the batting into the lining to do this. Take your time and be sure to hold it shut with pins before you begin to sew.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumtltL_0LzzeN2SiK5w0zCS3ekXIMI7VijaYqMJjPICWej2Tjysq9IosHo1VVTABUm0CS584GyX2dzzJM7GrZqN4VBLypNyFXK8LXnS_7e-pzB1h3z0ewPT_qS44eIPFwVv3ZbOp_mnw/s1600/SDC15095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumtltL_0LzzeN2SiK5w0zCS3ekXIMI7VijaYqMJjPICWej2Tjysq9IosHo1VVTABUm0CS584GyX2dzzJM7GrZqN4VBLypNyFXK8LXnS_7e-pzB1h3z0ewPT_qS44eIPFwVv3ZbOp_mnw/s400/SDC15095.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Now you have two nice little pillows! <br />
<br />
On to the fabric cover. If you are using a half of a standard pillow like I did, cut a fabric rectangle that is 13x45 inches long. Fold each short end over twice and sew to create a 1/2 inch hem. This finished end will be visible when the pillow case is finished.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzaUeg8TyovRXLLQzvkCxMY5OQEAXQM0YYXlgSzzmZ1l007dY2joMA9vlmCy2QiUl5svd-MzQhdqz9vGWVlsSdmiZCZpjmzOrLrkSA3kmrkCOssBbcRftF9jV4PW-RBhPr-It06Uam0g/s1600/SDC15098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzaUeg8TyovRXLLQzvkCxMY5OQEAXQM0YYXlgSzzmZ1l007dY2joMA9vlmCy2QiUl5svd-MzQhdqz9vGWVlsSdmiZCZpjmzOrLrkSA3kmrkCOssBbcRftF9jV4PW-RBhPr-It06Uam0g/s400/SDC15098.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Take the hemmed ends of the pillowcase and bring them together to overlap over each other in the middle. Be sure that right sides are together. It should measure 19 inches from end to end. If it does not, adjust it until it does. Also, be sure the hemmed ends are overlapping at least 2-3 inches.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRcXbYIb2kQTeXpNAza1hyW0tRmecqUhgv-myzA5KNkSpOQErQ2UQz4osqGF4pLBEhtQNeCmsqJPVEc-JxHgCLPEX2-0UCfKKPy-gLOak08ijKt9t6mhaDv3d4IRMrEQdEAyPL5RW_pNw/s1600/SDC15099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRcXbYIb2kQTeXpNAza1hyW0tRmecqUhgv-myzA5KNkSpOQErQ2UQz4osqGF4pLBEhtQNeCmsqJPVEc-JxHgCLPEX2-0UCfKKPy-gLOak08ijKt9t6mhaDv3d4IRMrEQdEAyPL5RW_pNw/s400/SDC15099.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Pin the unfinished edges together and sew. DO NOT SEW the hemmed, overlapped edges together. This is how you will get your pillow in and out of the case.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9U3XWa4Q0C5HZlzq7VkjEAWr3BjGfXnupvQTOkQYidbYSY3oUPFRSUPCpia-iba7ViUQS2rte683Dqx5gfMSZitDIoqIu2R3ULGbnLpIa0YTf3dD_3ZQDoxvTyn8o-jtuS1btlF-Gjqw/s1600/SDC15101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9U3XWa4Q0C5HZlzq7VkjEAWr3BjGfXnupvQTOkQYidbYSY3oUPFRSUPCpia-iba7ViUQS2rte683Dqx5gfMSZitDIoqIu2R3ULGbnLpIa0YTf3dD_3ZQDoxvTyn8o-jtuS1btlF-Gjqw/s400/SDC15101.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Turn the pillow case inside out and iron flat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXAk8dTSw4uXrLNxbQ6Plzttak8o3r3UDbhkRDgxb4EQiTdtP64SYnK7JSE3nrg66NTJQOMYuekTdTZmOdaELg1MGv09mtlFXyF_MrAW2s687Ww4Yr_9eJAwSWGglS9hZUgCnEr_-pYo/s1600/SDC15102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXAk8dTSw4uXrLNxbQ6Plzttak8o3r3UDbhkRDgxb4EQiTdtP64SYnK7JSE3nrg66NTJQOMYuekTdTZmOdaELg1MGv09mtlFXyF_MrAW2s687Ww4Yr_9eJAwSWGglS9hZUgCnEr_-pYo/s400/SDC15102.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Insert the pillow into the case through the opening in the back...and tada! You have a pillow with a handy removable case for easy washing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHrjWDdI0rtayTkD4NmBIGS8Z2IwuBvhdii0QciPZPQeqVb-KzaNP-lFeeCWzAIRPLfSY8eKbsjN26tl4abFiJtdFjTu1uDJfBOwKT6VxrHgCwm5UTkak9g7xuOopQJ_oJINRGX98Xf8/s1600/SDC15103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHrjWDdI0rtayTkD4NmBIGS8Z2IwuBvhdii0QciPZPQeqVb-KzaNP-lFeeCWzAIRPLfSY8eKbsjN26tl4abFiJtdFjTu1uDJfBOwKT6VxrHgCwm5UTkak9g7xuOopQJ_oJINRGX98Xf8/s400/SDC15103.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The total cost for one of these pillows was about $3.50 if you include the fabric. Compare this price to the following throw pillows I found at Target:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/room-essentials-ombre-stripe-toss-pillow-12x20/-/A-14407780#?lnk=sc_qi_detailbutton">Ombre Striped Toss Pillow</a>: $16.99</b> </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="height: 294px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; width: 332px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img1.targetimg1.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/14/40/14407780_121228083000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img1.targetimg1.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/14/40/14407780_121228083000.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/rodrigo-toss-pillow-collection-graphite/-/A-14296368#prodSlot=large_4_11">Rodrigo Toss Pillow</a>: $30.60</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img1.targetimg1.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/14/29/14296368_121016083000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img1.targetimg1.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/14/29/14296368_121016083000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
That's a whole lot of savings for pretty much the same results :). I'm also planning on making some larger square pillows to go with these smaller ones on the couch. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b> </b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
That's all for today! And now I'm off to enjoy my new pillows on the couch...</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-63124534668990153112013-04-16T16:43:00.000-07:002013-04-16T16:46:48.631-07:00Smoothie, Anyone?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtomXUnCft7xBffZ-A-u65kRsyofx4WIOf6YTFtRBcDtZilvdTdwG87OmDkRzSsFchCVNmDeCsBxsQnxSK3aoScBicI2mtEOw8g2NkGa7XWXKoy1FKzxRHAzEQ2CSywL07JRGLtMqv08w/s1600/SDC15070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtomXUnCft7xBffZ-A-u65kRsyofx4WIOf6YTFtRBcDtZilvdTdwG87OmDkRzSsFchCVNmDeCsBxsQnxSK3aoScBicI2mtEOw8g2NkGa7XWXKoy1FKzxRHAzEQ2CSywL07JRGLtMqv08w/s320/SDC15070.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Aaah! I love when Spring & Summer roll around and fruits and veggies are plentiful and lower priced. During this time of year, I am trying to allocate about 30% of our grocery budget to buying fresh fruits and veggies.<br />
<br />
One of our favorite things to use fruit for are smoothies. Super refreshing and full of healthy vitamins! I've tried several different methods and recipes for making smoothies, and I've finally settled on a method that works well for me.<br />
<br />
The first step is to get your hands on fresh fruit. Keep an eye out for sales and stock up when you can. For example, this week blackberries were on sale for 99 cents at Aldi. Since the normal price is around $3.00, I obviously stocked up!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihljX-GyThZ8truiyk9xHmPuGoyWcBjZKp8ngXHIYoQlSnvnTvCdLErU-hF3lSGIbDIuzCkbXy9evWdUxAY3_R9LV76Su67p-_G79qzg5tddCAEsjdk6-e-EsBqTtMx9xUmsdyrempbZc/s1600/SDC15058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihljX-GyThZ8truiyk9xHmPuGoyWcBjZKp8ngXHIYoQlSnvnTvCdLErU-hF3lSGIbDIuzCkbXy9evWdUxAY3_R9LV76Su67p-_G79qzg5tddCAEsjdk6-e-EsBqTtMx9xUmsdyrempbZc/s320/SDC15058.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Sometimes, if I'm not able to get decently priced fruit, I'll also check the frozen fruit selection. A lot of times you can get your hands on reasonably priced frozen strawberries and raspberries. However, my experience has been that it is usually cheaper to buy them fresh when they are on sale and freeze them yourself.<br />
<br />
After rinsing the fruit and slicing the strawberries, I package them in freezer bags. Normally, I'll divide each of the strawberries packages into two separate bags. If you use freezer bags to store your fruit, make sure to remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsA5LiLa8WcolJDfdAXcBFdYxoM-2bngXWxFhfbvmdH39TCWJV5M27dNv0BkZ7ihiF3NemRQ4QBLBxytN67AuHCwSoiUnOoPQ-Jrffu_BZhedzuIbQirXJmMpT838BdkerTSyU9K4u30/s1600/SDC15059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsA5LiLa8WcolJDfdAXcBFdYxoM-2bngXWxFhfbvmdH39TCWJV5M27dNv0BkZ7ihiF3NemRQ4QBLBxytN67AuHCwSoiUnOoPQ-Jrffu_BZhedzuIbQirXJmMpT838BdkerTSyU9K4u30/s320/SDC15059.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Now, whenever we feel like having a smoothie, I have my fruit all prepped!<br />
<br />
To make a smoothie for two, I grab one of my fruit bags straight from the freezer and pop it into out awesome ninja blender.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNKJx6y2dFRPuXodQYHRw0tNlJ3Ac0_ITg3zioStDvQqTRaiH857Ft9v7c-X5IPVZhtVGOHNiNXT0bI5pQzMFI8Nw7C5Q0ajhnZL379Jw_KI8ONWdBbFg1SzTXjrvxuWzlVJKKu62Orc/s1600/SDC15066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNKJx6y2dFRPuXodQYHRw0tNlJ3Ac0_ITg3zioStDvQqTRaiH857Ft9v7c-X5IPVZhtVGOHNiNXT0bI5pQzMFI8Nw7C5Q0ajhnZL379Jw_KI8ONWdBbFg1SzTXjrvxuWzlVJKKu62Orc/s320/SDC15066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Next, I blend the fruit by itself for a few seconds to break it down.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgB_K39duKsOkKYHzSSyLEVHW6Pdd_IhFY8BPFC1CUluHm7ZWerhcDJIKvy34w7sa3T5Tr2VVJTDE-9k-glNZA9lAFFKAfxdghOxEhsbCoYhwgeEVHoDNplkx4rdOHQLEKBE5_gYnHsc/s1600/SDC15067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgB_K39duKsOkKYHzSSyLEVHW6Pdd_IhFY8BPFC1CUluHm7ZWerhcDJIKvy34w7sa3T5Tr2VVJTDE-9k-glNZA9lAFFKAfxdghOxEhsbCoYhwgeEVHoDNplkx4rdOHQLEKBE5_gYnHsc/s320/SDC15067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I add a couple tablespoons of sugar to the fruit, but any sweetener or honey would work as well. Finally, add about 2 cups of milk and blend...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUTJLksRffR6ckBqPsD1iu6VVLMonGnmduqCv0FMYTxNDhRxRuM263eZtsFuHR_xWTZXkZ3q1b2tc1P4ZUwvG1BB_VTxi0hNVrB_epOqULyLuxgmiSJQH1g_1g7FcKwTCTTmIZzBJ1MM/s1600/SDC15068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUTJLksRffR6ckBqPsD1iu6VVLMonGnmduqCv0FMYTxNDhRxRuM263eZtsFuHR_xWTZXkZ3q1b2tc1P4ZUwvG1BB_VTxi0hNVrB_epOqULyLuxgmiSJQH1g_1g7FcKwTCTTmIZzBJ1MM/s320/SDC15068.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
If the smoothie is too thick, add more milk until it's the consistency that you like.<br />
<br />
And that's all! Serve and enjoy...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJsrThyJ-XjS7q4-craVbH7gc2BgH9jvd2cbIngnG6hiyz1mJMEqxhO4L_gkRFFunVFY_YSNaawF_dx52hNb2XP_3_ey5edW7GMRVHEDq3DMNaHudbOTi6Xb4LPuHU6A4s79sTMD5rSk/s1600/SDC15069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJsrThyJ-XjS7q4-craVbH7gc2BgH9jvd2cbIngnG6hiyz1mJMEqxhO4L_gkRFFunVFY_YSNaawF_dx52hNb2XP_3_ey5edW7GMRVHEDq3DMNaHudbOTi6Xb4LPuHU6A4s79sTMD5rSk/s320/SDC15069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's like drinking ice cream! What kind of smoothies do you like?<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-26225384768710010882013-03-27T06:14:00.002-07:002013-03-27T06:19:17.288-07:00Successful Attempt at Homemade Chicken Ravioli!Ravioli is so yummy! Because of the strong Italian influence in Argentina, I grew up eating it quite a bit. But this man is the one who inspired me to try my hand at making it myself:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.tradeshowlifestyles.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Gordon-Ramsay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.tradeshowlifestyles.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Gordon-Ramsay.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
Chef Gordon Ramsay!!<br />
<br />
Devin and I have been watching through all the seasons of Hell's Kitchen on Hulu. A couple of days ago, we watched an episode where the chefs were challenged to create unique ravioli. They seriously looked so good that I decided to try making some with whatever I had on hand--chicken of course :).<br />
<br />
Here is my version of Homemade Chicken Ravioli...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrHIvPGBPvVvpXPWQrMRi8PIUsYIqPGjmTsS-0IDTCBmMe3ZWsSuHPytLhTvtf8riX4xJtYTCJhedCqlZ-d9rb07aImHto2D_DENkkE57JLOKgpeZC9NEItEX1TqTTFIRTSEB_4-ZGeo/s1600/sdc15025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrHIvPGBPvVvpXPWQrMRi8PIUsYIqPGjmTsS-0IDTCBmMe3ZWsSuHPytLhTvtf8riX4xJtYTCJhedCqlZ-d9rb07aImHto2D_DENkkE57JLOKgpeZC9NEItEX1TqTTFIRTSEB_4-ZGeo/s400/sdc15025.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Filling</h3>
<div>
2 chicken breasts</div>
<div>
2 garlic cloves, minced</div>
<div>
1 tsp basil</div>
<div>
1 tsp parsley</div>
<div>
salt & pepper to taste</div>
<div>
2 Tbsp bread crumbs</div>
<div>
2 Tbsp parmesan</div>
<div>
1 Tbsp olive oil</div>
<div>
1/4 c cream or milk</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Dice the chicken and saute over medium heat in some olive or vegetable oil with the garlic.Once the chicken is cooked, season with basil, parsley, salt, & pepper. Remove from heat and add bread crumbs, parmesan, olive oil, and cream. Place chicken mixture in a food processor and grind it all up. Chill filling in the refrigerator until ready to use.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjokTboTUtxvbpOSw1PqfY0V9usZ4BGaLCd3XmE6KmguHBOpseP1NgaZ2TwuIFlwnxx2bnCSqrf3LephMcbFnITyr0SeV75gwq5k8jQJuAhsK5_Yu_USavmcPqWLM9FLCYQ5CX3_K5m-NY/s1600/sdc15014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjokTboTUtxvbpOSw1PqfY0V9usZ4BGaLCd3XmE6KmguHBOpseP1NgaZ2TwuIFlwnxx2bnCSqrf3LephMcbFnITyr0SeV75gwq5k8jQJuAhsK5_Yu_USavmcPqWLM9FLCYQ5CX3_K5m-NY/s400/sdc15014.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJKODXi-vuBzuA5SJJMFu5vY_KXzdDprCHxkx2YeLER665AktxNRuVInhXKVovD4rBs1Jxfsqr3SyAeUFGxXfdRkWmYgAU00m50qAkMxXQ_sJXA9G1d3DDgomuw9454BTCO4Mxl4cF2xQ/s1600/sdc15015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJKODXi-vuBzuA5SJJMFu5vY_KXzdDprCHxkx2YeLER665AktxNRuVInhXKVovD4rBs1Jxfsqr3SyAeUFGxXfdRkWmYgAU00m50qAkMxXQ_sJXA9G1d3DDgomuw9454BTCO4Mxl4cF2xQ/s400/sdc15015.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Pasta Dough</h3>
<div>
2 c flour</div>
<div>
1 egg</div>
<div>
1/2 c milk</div>
<div>
1 tsp salt</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Mix together ingredients until combined. You may need to add a couple additional drops of milk if it is too dry. However, the dough shouldn't be sticky at all. Turn onto floured surface and knead a few times until dough is smooth. Divide dough in half. Wrap one half in plastic wrap to keep it from drying out. Roll out the other half as thin as you can (about 1/8 inch). Using a cup or some other round object, cut dough into disks. Repeat with other half of dough. Collect dough scraps and continue to roll out and cut until you have used it all.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8yh-n8e6HtBRv1S7ezDOr4NjT73obj6hMF6-waQGcKBZ0AEzHyyXLu5xG8hrR73sV1RoMYgU3mjpKSkWzfTy4yBhB49KLFAnPJHsCPdU2nUCYKFHin23L7jJCvcoNYYTSp58JoGCAZ4/s1600/sdc15017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8yh-n8e6HtBRv1S7ezDOr4NjT73obj6hMF6-waQGcKBZ0AEzHyyXLu5xG8hrR73sV1RoMYgU3mjpKSkWzfTy4yBhB49KLFAnPJHsCPdU2nUCYKFHin23L7jJCvcoNYYTSp58JoGCAZ4/s400/sdc15017.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhPNlq4nIDrOS4qBCwkbDIXzPAICNYNIpJVqLpVbis0e3JJf0rtABywDJREZVbidfktMTg0fy30USZthfdYosKuReUfsUZsuQz9DnP1HVFK0zwBt7IJ4azRW9XXkelytEwLvSVTIt5gk/s1600/sdc15018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhPNlq4nIDrOS4qBCwkbDIXzPAICNYNIpJVqLpVbis0e3JJf0rtABywDJREZVbidfktMTg0fy30USZthfdYosKuReUfsUZsuQz9DnP1HVFK0zwBt7IJ4azRW9XXkelytEwLvSVTIt5gk/s400/sdc15018.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
Assembly</h3>
<div>
Place a spoonful of filling in the middle of one of the dough circles. Top with another dough circle and pinch edges shut. Moisten the edges with a little water if they aren't sticking. Place finished ravioli on generously floured tray. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsmslahFoxObkQ8ZzSEMc2L8h8F4XNuz1bdsFWBk3bepqNp2OrZTsKGH6rQL_ydKGb0F1RhMG2WkAI7QB9vlLn868LqxDHNzm6aECKAP4spNHCHgVyiBSTD0TjYPs8JUjIKMrRlhY3-Q/s1600/sdc15019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsmslahFoxObkQ8ZzSEMc2L8h8F4XNuz1bdsFWBk3bepqNp2OrZTsKGH6rQL_ydKGb0F1RhMG2WkAI7QB9vlLn868LqxDHNzm6aECKAP4spNHCHgVyiBSTD0TjYPs8JUjIKMrRlhY3-Q/s400/sdc15019.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-xvvapuosBhMhakihksYoZhpwEeSmulxebckWKdY01x3-rcMmPpPLvdr5-tcc9Yv51lzXMejebW15vg9Tq2OOzT_urg3bbZZmgZ3lWrQey8ewEnHP4C-amTwxtaQp03kw5x5PjxYRQqw/s1600/sdc15020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-xvvapuosBhMhakihksYoZhpwEeSmulxebckWKdY01x3-rcMmPpPLvdr5-tcc9Yv51lzXMejebW15vg9Tq2OOzT_urg3bbZZmgZ3lWrQey8ewEnHP4C-amTwxtaQp03kw5x5PjxYRQqw/s400/sdc15020.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Cooking</h3>
<div>
Boil a large pot of water. Just before putting ravioli in, drizzle some olive oil in the water. Drop ravioli into water and gently move pot back and forth a couple of times so that they don't stick together. I only cooked 6 or 7 at a time. Boil for 2-3 minutes then remove with a slotted spoon into a gently oiled dish. Serve with your favorite tomato pasta sauce or creamy white sauce.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG_41ofOmF_90lmMZ3Gy9Y7ml0iIg4yzQ88AVkXziaBLsXuh6rfOMOr1g7KbRe-0kaIOBXfcI6e9WUvBMYqJvKbLOyU1KUIk7HGhTYa4-QPlKliQB5YOFg8ahXCyF96InDGzK-1YEP7RA/s1600/sdc15024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG_41ofOmF_90lmMZ3Gy9Y7ml0iIg4yzQ88AVkXziaBLsXuh6rfOMOr1g7KbRe-0kaIOBXfcI6e9WUvBMYqJvKbLOyU1KUIk7HGhTYa4-QPlKliQB5YOFg8ahXCyF96InDGzK-1YEP7RA/s400/sdc15024.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqUTEz4SBC278i3Ab80E60UDNd67p7ZuD3TrS-ZbOfKAykCYBZ2VtJ_e6eDomauywHA7PJJlvRvzbi4cq4KRty9Q3Yyy2NumGjvaHkirU31elN82MZ0WNIYwwE_ZkePqxd8ZrU6td71rU/s1600/sdc15023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqUTEz4SBC278i3Ab80E60UDNd67p7ZuD3TrS-ZbOfKAykCYBZ2VtJ_e6eDomauywHA7PJJlvRvzbi4cq4KRty9Q3Yyy2NumGjvaHkirU31elN82MZ0WNIYwwE_ZkePqxd8ZrU6td71rU/s400/sdc15023.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are several steps involved in making these...but trust me, they are so worth it!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Enjoy!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-81724063603514639242013-03-22T16:52:00.001-07:002013-03-22T16:52:49.158-07:00Crispy & Golden Oven Roasted Potatoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqr2_Q11OITzfx-f8JKNnTNsRfcn0XhaficaCPTe4lfNbxNANW-gkpPvV4ViwtQgrkqWekEFdVbIx3UPbmCyN5CEwO84h01R0ziBmsrm0_gvk_M5MptB2n_WpNwLz9nyS9LJF3W23B_k/s1600/SDC15003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqr2_Q11OITzfx-f8JKNnTNsRfcn0XhaficaCPTe4lfNbxNANW-gkpPvV4ViwtQgrkqWekEFdVbIx3UPbmCyN5CEwO84h01R0ziBmsrm0_gvk_M5MptB2n_WpNwLz9nyS9LJF3W23B_k/s400/SDC15003.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These potatoes are very yummy and quite the crowd pleaser! Seasoned well and cooked to golden perfection, they provide a great side dish for a bunch of different meals. Here's how I cook them:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<h3>
Ingredients:</h3>
Potatoes (We love red potatoes!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Olive Oil</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Salt</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pepper</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Garlic Powder</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oregano</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Preheat the oven to 425 F. Chop a bunch of potatoes into half inch cubes. I personally like leaving the skin on them, but you can peel them first if you'd like. Place the cubed potatoes into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and add seasonings to taste. Toss ingredients together and spread them out evenly in a single layer on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Turn off the oven and set your broiler to high. Turn the potatoes over with a spatula and broil for 10 min. Turn the potatoes over once more and broil for 10 more minutes or until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Enjoy!</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-30947299747878860172013-03-20T08:44:00.003-07:002013-03-20T08:44:42.897-07:00Sewing with ScrapsI love making tiny little clothes with leftover scraps of cloth. Here's a little dress I sewed this week for my husband's little cousin A that I babysit three mornings a week. In case you can't tell, she's a ham in front of the camera :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkKaNx28I3MIVs7fCMgjATiD10veavlWFMnKhVOyoKPVrjRrAhyphenhyphenENm9cvgw7GBEdVe5zcRUnENjAdtC43TbfPW6nGcpcWwlzFYvN4GKyP0TrfXDGCVtfGk5bbDkQMrB3Rm20fsDQVABs/s1600/sdc14995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkKaNx28I3MIVs7fCMgjATiD10veavlWFMnKhVOyoKPVrjRrAhyphenhyphenENm9cvgw7GBEdVe5zcRUnENjAdtC43TbfPW6nGcpcWwlzFYvN4GKyP0TrfXDGCVtfGk5bbDkQMrB3Rm20fsDQVABs/s640/sdc14995.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FmmZEcUXeotEQcrjTM_g88_GOvlnDsldYUL3T05S8FSQQdmQ4G4W_tcO7XiDT7cvuS73X9W1Vm79CRjTnNoWEldu0oX-QAs2PHGMIUZhsUmgLFe9ur6y9TF8Wy6pDGLFtg3S34xQ218/s1600/sdc14997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FmmZEcUXeotEQcrjTM_g88_GOvlnDsldYUL3T05S8FSQQdmQ4G4W_tcO7XiDT7cvuS73X9W1Vm79CRjTnNoWEldu0oX-QAs2PHGMIUZhsUmgLFe9ur6y9TF8Wy6pDGLFtg3S34xQ218/s640/sdc14997.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9n1KsGvxOorV8alX8QGQrFc1NRzYmaVNqW_Li1OLAXR0Yhr0ap-GFPjYs1o6io-NGRbj7wtIDztxhKG7a9gXsDTUGBF8QP4XhWmNQ8X1ggMfWPBlHLYYVV0b0rW2BGHEpXt0lwisg2C8/s1600/sdc14998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9n1KsGvxOorV8alX8QGQrFc1NRzYmaVNqW_Li1OLAXR0Yhr0ap-GFPjYs1o6io-NGRbj7wtIDztxhKG7a9gXsDTUGBF8QP4XhWmNQ8X1ggMfWPBlHLYYVV0b0rW2BGHEpXt0lwisg2C8/s640/sdc14998.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOL5C3WNYRAMuNWqvEHh3SQlOPx_aehSjxI0C9MUq9p4suJk9LR7Gsi3xELNNg1ziMVr4-E8BuqIdvYhl3ihNC817LT4IrVVcWjvlAHBhW-nNqsKcEk2hPnEMyPMseR8i7iolN-rY-lFk/s1600/sdc14999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOL5C3WNYRAMuNWqvEHh3SQlOPx_aehSjxI0C9MUq9p4suJk9LR7Gsi3xELNNg1ziMVr4-E8BuqIdvYhl3ihNC817LT4IrVVcWjvlAHBhW-nNqsKcEk2hPnEMyPMseR8i7iolN-rY-lFk/s640/sdc14999.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This dress is a simple tube top with a gathered skirt and strap sleeves. i made the skirt part by sewing together all kinds of little squares I had left over. You can't really tell because the pattern is so busy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I followed <a href="http://littlelivingstone.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-to-make-fabric-flower-yoyo.html">this tutorial</a> to make the fabric flower yoyo.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A loves her dress and already tried it on three times this morning :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What do you do with leftover fabric scraps?</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-22826895396704794892013-03-18T07:28:00.000-07:002013-03-18T07:28:01.984-07:00Easy Refashion: Maxi Dress to Maxi SkirtSome of you may have seen that my husband bought me A SEWING MACHINE FOR MY BIRTHDAY!! In case you can't tell, I'm really excited!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/859897_10152647321110013_1263801715_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/859897_10152647321110013_1263801715_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Man..now that I have sewing equipment...the possibilities are endless! <br />
<br />
There are a few things in my closet that I am planning to repurpose/refashion. My first garment to attack was this semi ugly maxi dress that I bought 4 years ago at Forever 21 for $10. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7OAIg69BbHJt7LtB9Fzt3lyaOs6iWyd4Fw6Bl-00yRlPTOZmnvtDmLZ2EAwK9hGarCszODmWqhHMJ2ASnRZaRQc-X4rFGHwxl1l2QoDOPbcQTcM6__zRnoq3UPfG0SRuRa7mZduDnkuI/s1600/sdc14983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7OAIg69BbHJt7LtB9Fzt3lyaOs6iWyd4Fw6Bl-00yRlPTOZmnvtDmLZ2EAwK9hGarCszODmWqhHMJ2ASnRZaRQc-X4rFGHwxl1l2QoDOPbcQTcM6__zRnoq3UPfG0SRuRa7mZduDnkuI/s400/sdc14983.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It served its purpose for awhile, but it hung really weird and was a tad short. Not too mention it was just way too much green. I decided to scrap it and turn it into a cute maxi skirt instead.<br />
<br />
I started off by chopping off the top.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4xRjMeKM-Y4O2EVS3blefn_B92PyL2JfAMeP3f5qvgXWNkOg09h7k05psouTiHy1A_UIVYNd4VofLwfy6yos5vGVp0zoZuSwJRiBYTQ1gdTEU1NKOE-OjosSDrOA3xYlKcGJXl8i47Y/s1600/sdc14984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4xRjMeKM-Y4O2EVS3blefn_B92PyL2JfAMeP3f5qvgXWNkOg09h7k05psouTiHy1A_UIVYNd4VofLwfy6yos5vGVp0zoZuSwJRiBYTQ1gdTEU1NKOE-OjosSDrOA3xYlKcGJXl8i47Y/s400/sdc14984.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then I measured around my waist where I wanted the skirt to sit. I subtracted 3 or 4 inches from that measurement, giving me the length of my waistband. The reason I took 3 or 4 inches off is because this fabric is very stretchy and I wanted it to fit snugly around my waist.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I cut the waistband from the top of the material. Since the material is folded in half, I just measured half the length of the waistband from one of the sides. I wanted my waistband to be about 3 inches wide when finished, so doubled that to allow for folding it over (you'll see this later.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdkXR4EMWcf7Hr4QpdqMGk-Wk3q9ee4Kjsk7X3MOm___8xajITCwfjgkOwP8t6qC3Sx8lCFdFhE9m12BoparDnVAk098Inv2pwQTaawzdmaSYH90Y7PSefGsnvbDgsUtARagXpYbDcd0/s1600/sdc14987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdkXR4EMWcf7Hr4QpdqMGk-Wk3q9ee4Kjsk7X3MOm___8xajITCwfjgkOwP8t6qC3Sx8lCFdFhE9m12BoparDnVAk098Inv2pwQTaawzdmaSYH90Y7PSefGsnvbDgsUtARagXpYbDcd0/s400/sdc14987.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I quickly sewed up the open side (short end) of the waistband and then folded it in half lengthwise.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1IEgqHLHfKuzqHoao3abSykb7WpqwGNSuYlyaEdBu3rnexGMJDHE9nnnqmpN3PtAHIA4zdlQq2rtFZf1bX76SO3mRRph_WS1NLpd2viFfAbynUOB1Yn1dkCb-bEP44wt6nul_MMOA54/s1600/sdc14988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1IEgqHLHfKuzqHoao3abSykb7WpqwGNSuYlyaEdBu3rnexGMJDHE9nnnqmpN3PtAHIA4zdlQq2rtFZf1bX76SO3mRRph_WS1NLpd2viFfAbynUOB1Yn1dkCb-bEP44wt6nul_MMOA54/s400/sdc14988.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ta da..WAISTBAND! :) This is essentially going to function as an elastic. The actual skirt will be much wider. I had to stretch the waist band as I sewed it to the skirt. The result was a gathered skirt. And here's how you do that:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cut the remaining part of the dress to the appropriate length. I simply evened off the top of it that way I could keep the original side seams and hem. Next, pin the waistband to the top of the skirt, right sides together. Start by pinning the side seams of the waistband to the side seams of the skirt. Stretch the waistband and pin in several other spots to keep it roughly in place. This part is tricky. You want it to have an even amount of stretch all the way around, or else your skirt will be more gathered in certain places than in others.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxsxGmrbbyn2Xi-sv1rC6Zn3jJPBp_Vg7sLJu7eZL9Tjzq4l2_LjNsE9axxTGNchhzuwkcAaUY8jX1gybbU1OtEo9MiyCE6v2QxxGM5haXPvbMi83tNL6FvU7DP2uUmU1qMNzybuM15zU/s1600/sdc14989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxsxGmrbbyn2Xi-sv1rC6Zn3jJPBp_Vg7sLJu7eZL9Tjzq4l2_LjNsE9axxTGNchhzuwkcAaUY8jX1gybbU1OtEo9MiyCE6v2QxxGM5haXPvbMi83tNL6FvU7DP2uUmU1qMNzybuM15zU/s400/sdc14989.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sew the waistband to the skirt. Start at one of your pins. Stretch the waistband between pins as you sew so that it fits the skirt. I used a stretch zig zag stitch for this. When you are finished sewing the waistband in place, flip it up and admire your work :) The entire project only took me like 15 minutes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITGGOOhl33wmSwUkuhIqUYLFlXauh0vpRT7GU1saCDMdfrSsKR9zH-82TjA2_Bmj39LB2J3bXqtE1q5ayXOHvvSXLsBMqu3Mhn0ZCugaGgNvqQjIAgGtz_JkXrlEHjqcFg6SoXGrsffc/s1600/sdc14991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITGGOOhl33wmSwUkuhIqUYLFlXauh0vpRT7GU1saCDMdfrSsKR9zH-82TjA2_Bmj39LB2J3bXqtE1q5ayXOHvvSXLsBMqu3Mhn0ZCugaGgNvqQjIAgGtz_JkXrlEHjqcFg6SoXGrsffc/s400/sdc14991.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My waistband ended up stretching a little more than I had planned on. In the future if I do this again, I will cut the waistband even smaller to allow for it to stretch out a little. However, I am please with the results and know I will use this skirt much more often than I wore the ugly dress version. Can't wait for spring!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzq1a98fWQSC7Vgj6E0KlWPN2iHKP2KVRDvjoT5HBgoC5RFJ2i1VfhHqIeFEu6gH0Hi9Ksj5omsV2JkCVUh4D04UEPn4JRzwQZ4NJKiXj6ZAR8VnE_7p_xLVgQ3Y5gyQr9NRGm979iVx4/s1600/sdc14993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzq1a98fWQSC7Vgj6E0KlWPN2iHKP2KVRDvjoT5HBgoC5RFJ2i1VfhHqIeFEu6gH0Hi9Ksj5omsV2JkCVUh4D04UEPn4JRzwQZ4NJKiXj6ZAR8VnE_7p_xLVgQ3Y5gyQr9NRGm979iVx4/s640/sdc14993.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eDvNpkPD2qAhorR_ZpbCR_pcKUI86mEoICyaY-5p9uK7q92QfVWBrubRF6n57Nt7Tqyuh2o33-pMtklVj8aDSnXBO5US99fUP500e9ZCXGb9mJhdqaveOGnCNFYLjnmZnSLr2TuyByk/s1600/sdc14994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eDvNpkPD2qAhorR_ZpbCR_pcKUI86mEoICyaY-5p9uK7q92QfVWBrubRF6n57Nt7Tqyuh2o33-pMtklVj8aDSnXBO5US99fUP500e9ZCXGb9mJhdqaveOGnCNFYLjnmZnSLr2TuyByk/s640/sdc14994.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Try to ignore my bright green socks peeking out :)</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-32172229120965012352013-03-06T07:10:00.002-08:002013-03-06T07:13:15.229-08:00Home Improvement Project: The Little Things...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" height="200" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8086/8409077430_3a1ffbf3e4.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today I am joining the <a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.com/2013/03/home-improvement-diy-homemakers-edition.html">Home Improvement Linky Party</a> over at <a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.com/">A Living Sacrifice</a> to show you a couple of very small things I have accomplished in my home.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You've already read a few different posts on this blog regarding my <a href="http://kravenit.blogspot.com/2013/01/budget-and-meal-planning-goals-for-new.html">new grocery shopping goals for this year</a>, my <a href="http://kravenit.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-finer-points-of-grocery-shopping_27.html">system for grocery shopping</a>, and my <a href="http://kravenit.blogspot.com/2013/03/whats-for-dinner.html">two week meal plan</a>. Continuing on with this theme, I came up with two things that make me smile every time I use them--which is quite often!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First of all, I wanted to have something attractive to write my two week menu plan out on. I had tried<a href="http://kravenit.blogspot.com/2013/01/budget-and-meal-planning-goals-for-new.html"> this system</a> before, but didn't really like how it worked. I prefer just writing out my meal ideas without assigning them to a specific day. That way I can just pick whichever one sounds good on any given day :). Here's what I came up with:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<center>
</center>
<div style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 12px auto 6px auto;">
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/128885344/Menu" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Menu on Scribd">Menu</a> by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/undefined" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View 's profile on Scribd"></a> </div>
<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="undefined" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_3333" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/128885344/content?start_page=1&view_mode=scroll" width="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
After printing it, I simply popped it into a plastic page protector and wrote my meals on it with a marker. Simple and easy to use!<br />
<br />
This project led to the inspiration of my second project. I decided to update my grocery staples list and format it to match my new menu sheet. Here's what it looks like:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 12px auto 6px auto;">
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/128886188/Grocery-Staples" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Grocery Staples on Scribd">Grocery Staples</a> by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/undefined" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View 's profile on Scribd"></a> </div>
<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="undefined" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_15978" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/128886188/content?start_page=1&view_mode=scroll" width="100%"></iframe><br />
<br />
This list got popped into a plastic sleeve as well and then I hung both on my refrigerator. I'm loving the colors and the functionality!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeEB8WbasYFQU49t5gAOXD3z1e-i3YK8_MpkRS8mO5mtY18BwZmOLo3E9e4NTyBwcyFkf0aR3tpH4rGsfSoFfKPfk04FKiVR6NG8-cmpdbkZB424XwY0h1npx0EJbQodu_37Z1qxLgp5M/s1600/sdc14967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeEB8WbasYFQU49t5gAOXD3z1e-i3YK8_MpkRS8mO5mtY18BwZmOLo3E9e4NTyBwcyFkf0aR3tpH4rGsfSoFfKPfk04FKiVR6NG8-cmpdbkZB424XwY0h1npx0EJbQodu_37Z1qxLgp5M/s400/sdc14967.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZH_ZoAtqbSvGlIi_JrpsLTL85WvqT8Wu7Lb-n80feOUnc-JlejU4RcxDnhs1Arc8IV5pPzwL2QnbCn2lnGS4zF2z384IctAw3SyFyt1FfJ-IOx7E1z-3t7wZnKRU1EsUGnkOFfUWUts/s1600/sdc14968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZH_ZoAtqbSvGlIi_JrpsLTL85WvqT8Wu7Lb-n80feOUnc-JlejU4RcxDnhs1Arc8IV5pPzwL2QnbCn2lnGS4zF2z384IctAw3SyFyt1FfJ-IOx7E1z-3t7wZnKRU1EsUGnkOFfUWUts/s400/sdc14968.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6JMgMyN5bADZVnc25u1kR1u4fdMnW50aHbImIxPKw7bYvPHMfROJG12sRcRCqV3glW82uIyWtpBstfJ0MFL0ueKVPvHYRtn7ojLYiC-_bfkEsIyD7sDHGs9kufgZW9iJtuZl7xNwvjOw/s1600/sdc14969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6JMgMyN5bADZVnc25u1kR1u4fdMnW50aHbImIxPKw7bYvPHMfROJG12sRcRCqV3glW82uIyWtpBstfJ0MFL0ueKVPvHYRtn7ojLYiC-_bfkEsIyD7sDHGs9kufgZW9iJtuZl7xNwvjOw/s400/sdc14969.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What home improvement projects have you been working on lately? </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-30017164084439746072013-03-04T08:51:00.004-08:002013-03-04T08:52:05.706-08:00What's for Dinner?Today is shopping day! And with shopping day comes my meal plan for the next two weeks. Here's a peek at what we might be eating over the next few days:<br />
<br />
<i><b>Ranch Chicken & Rice with Tossed Salad</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Crispy Oven Fried Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Carrots</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Chicken & Broccoli Casserole</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Stir Fry</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Lemon Baked Chicken & Veggies</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Braised Paprika Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Green Beans</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Tacos</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b><a href="http://kravenit.blogspot.com/2013/01/cheesy-vegetable-chowder.html">Cheesy Vegetable Chowder</a> with Rolls</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Lipton Soup Chicken with Tossed Salad</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Spaghetti with Tossed Salad & Garlic Rolls</b></i><br />
<br />
<br />
Notice a chicken theme going on here? That's because its the healthiest, most versatile, and least expensive meat we can get! I try to mix it up and create as many different dishes as I can. We actually don't get tired of it!<br />
<br />
Here are a couple of our new favorites from the list above:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/global/recipes/big/216309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.media-allrecipes.com/global/recipes/big/216309.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<h3>
Ranch Chicken & Rice</h3>
<div>
1 T vegetable oil</div>
<div>
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast</div>
<div>
1 cup rice</div>
<div>
1 can cream of chicken soup</div>
<div>
3/4 cup chicken broth or milk</div>
<div>
1 packet ranch seasoning</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Heat the oil in a nonstick skillet. Add the chicken and cook for 10 min, until browned on both sides. Whisk together broth/milk, chicken soup, and 1/2 packet of ranch seasoning. Add to skillet and heat to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until chicken is cooked through. Sprinkle with paprika and serve with the ranch style rice.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ranch style rice: heat 2 1/3 cups of water and the remaining ranch seasoning in 3 quart sauce pan to a boil. Stir in 1 cup of uncooked rice and cook according to directions.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://assets.eatingwell.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/standard/recipes/MP6753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://assets.eatingwell.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/standard/recipes/MP6753.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<h3>
Braised Paprika Chicken</h3>
<div>
3 lb bone-in chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks)</div>
<div>
3/4 t coarse salt</div>
<div>
1/2 t ground pepper</div>
<div>
2 T canola oil</div>
<div>
1 t butter</div>
<div>
1 large diced onion</div>
<div>
pinch of sugar</div>
<div>
1 c diced red bell pepper</div>
<div>
2 T tomato paste</div>
<div>
2 T sweet paprika</div>
<div>
1 t crushed red pepper</div>
<div>
1 t dried marjoram</div>
<div>
1 c chicken broth</div>
<div>
1/2 c sour cream</div>
<div>
1 T flour</div>
<div>
2 T parsley, dill, or chives</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Pat chicken pieces dry and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper. Heat oil and butter in a large pot or dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and sprinkle with sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are very soft and light brown. Stir in bell peppers, tomato paste, paprika, and crushed red pepper. Add the chicken and stir it gently into the onion mixture. Sprinkle with marjoram and add broth. Cover the pot and simmer over medium-low heat until the chicken is very tender, about 50 min.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just before the chicken is done, whisk sour cream, flour, and the remaining 1/4 t of salt in a small bowl until smooth. When the chicken is done, remove it to a plate. Stir the sour cream mixture into the sauce; return to a simmer and cook, stirring, until the sauce coats the spoon. Reduce heat to low, return the chicken to the sauce and reheat, about 1 min. Serve garnished with parsley, dill, and/or chives, if desired.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-90116953606975838862013-02-27T07:48:00.002-08:002013-02-27T07:48:49.874-08:00The Finer Points of Grocery Shopping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://groceryshoppingfromhome.com/images/lots-of-groceries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://groceryshoppingfromhome.com/images/lots-of-groceries.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Not too long ago,<a href="http://kravenit.blogspot.com/2013/01/budget-and-meal-planning-goals-for-new.html"> I shared some goals with you</a> that I have set out to accomplish during 2013. I'm so excited to report that I have been able to stick to these goals pretty faithfully and have seen some amazing results!<br />
<div>
<br />
Probably the area in which I've seen the most progress is our grocery budget. If you've kept up with my blog, you know that my goal was to switch over from grocery shopping every week to going every two weeks. Friends, let me just say, this has resulted in some wonderful financial changes! We have been able to save 30%-40% just by carefully planning and going to the store fewer times. I don't know why, but staying away from stores keeps you from spending money (shocker, right?)! You eventually just get into the habit of going without if it's not in your cupboards. </div>
<div>
<br />
In order to keep this pattern of savings up, I've really had to work on a system to carefully plan out my grocery shopping trips. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
1. Create a Staples List</h3>
I believe I've briefly mentioned this before--but having a staples list has drastically changed my grocery shopping strategy for the good! Honestly, it cuts down on the amount of time I spend making out a grocery list and helps me quickly identify what I am lacking in my cupboards. <br />
<br />
To create a staples list, I simply searched for some good pantry lists online and then compiled my own making sure to include all of our "regular" items that I feel I MUST have available. I grouped the items into logical categories to make sure I didn't leave anything out. Once I was sure I had everything on it and I liked how it looked, I printed it off and currently have it hanging on my refrigerator. <br />
<br />
When it is time to make out my grocery list, I take the list and read through it while checking my cupboards to make sure I have each item in stock. If I find something is missing or about to run out, I add it to my shopping list. Easy peasy! <br />
<br />
Here is a copy of my personal list. Feel free to download it and use it, or let me know if you want me to personalize the title with your name. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 12px auto 6px auto;">
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/126413186/Pantry-Items" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Pantry Items on Scribd">Pantry Items</a> by <a href="http://www.scribd.com/katig" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Kati Gibbons's profile on Scribd">Kati Gibbons</a> </div>
<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.772727272727273" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_56147" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/126413186/content?start_page=1&view_mode=scroll&access_key=key-dx04lq1a2jb3a3d7iyx" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
2. Look for the Best Deals</h3>
I have three different stores that I do my grocery shopping. The reason being that they are the stores that I have found the best deals at for the items I normally buy. <br />
<br />
<b>Aldi </b><br />
If you don't have an Aldi in your area, I am so sorry! This store is hands down my favorite. I buy pretty much everything I can here. The prices are wonderful and usually end up being cheaper than using coupons at another store. Aldi has gorgeous produce that is fresh and of good quality. The downside is that they don't carry every single item I usually need. However, I am usually able to buy about 90% of our groceries here. Aldi has been a huge help in maintaining a low grocery budget! <br />
<br />
<b>Wegmans</b> <br />
Wegmans typically chooses several items to set at a sale price which is locked in for a period of 6 months or so. This is great because it makes for dependable savings. I find that Wegmans is pretty expensive on most everything, but we use their locked in savings for purchasing our meat. While their prices are pretty much the same as Walmarts, the quality is no comparison whatsoever! Everything is fresh, and my favorite part is that they individually package chicken breasts making it super easy to store them in my freezer! I've also been taking advantage of their frozen veggies which are currently locked in at 99 cents a bag. <br />
<br />
<b>Walmart</b> <br />
Let's face it...we have to en up at Walmart at some point! Basically Walmart ends up being our catch all for whatever we couldn't find at Aldi or Wegmans. <br />
<br />
By doing some research and finding these stores that can offer me consistently low prices on items I use every week, I've been able to save week after week without going crazy with hopping around from store to store and spending hours pouring over ads. Simple dependablity works wonders for me! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
3. Count the Cost</h3>
Once I have a completed grocery shopping list, I figure out how much I'm going to spend. Normally, I can remember approximately how much each item costs at the store that I buy it. If I can't remember, I use the store's website or flyer to joggle my memory. If for some reason I can only find a ball park figure, I shoot high and round up the cost. It's way more fun to be pleasantly surprised when you spend LESS than anticipated rather than finding out you are going OVER what you had planned. <br />
<br />
I add up everything up so I know exactly how much money to plan on. I have a budgeted amount that I like to stay around or under. If I find I have gone over that amount after adding everything up, I start pruning my grocery list to get rid of things I think I can do without. There are always little extras I find I can discard until next time. When I'm all done, my grocery list usually looks something like this: </div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 12px auto 6px auto;">
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/127550692/Shopping-List" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Shopping List on Scribd">Shopping List</a> by <a href="http://www.scribd.com/katig" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Kati Gibbons's profile on Scribd">Kati Gibbons</a> </div>
<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.772300469483568" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_21402" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/127550692/content?start_page=1&view_mode=scroll&access_key=key-1ajtm7a3dehfkruytjhw" width="100%"></iframe>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
4. Stick to It</h3>
This is the most important part of the plan! Unless I absolutely stay focused on getting what is on my list, I tend to wander around and see things that I talk myself into "needing." This is so dangerous and leads to the biggest budget crasher ever! Don't let yourself fall into that trap. I like to hold my list and cross each item off as I place it in my cart. If I stick to my list and buy only what I've planned for, shopping really goes much faster as well! Saving time and money all in one shebang! <br />
<br />
Obviously there are times when you will have to improvise. For example, if you forget to add something crucial to your list. <br />
<br />
<i><br />Planning like this has the potential of leading you down a miserly, worry wart path. Choose not to take that direction either. It is almost as bad as being a money waster. Seriously, no one likes someone who is cheap and never does anything special! I've learned that if I've done my part in planning out my meals and grocery shopping list, we usually have some buffer room to allow for "special" things like ice cream, or breakfast at McDonalds, or a coffee date at Dunkin' Donuts. Don't let your zeal for saving rob you of the joy of doing small spontaneous things with people you love. Trust me, it's a lesson I had to learn :). </i><br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-65656603496801180012013-02-25T07:26:00.000-08:002013-02-25T07:32:17.890-08:00Pretzels..YUM!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHxddUW7yrI4HQbbDaXMfcLbOKzw6TxYe2frHUeSn7zV1oxQY21Xa35Ztwx16hPyqxJ0dw3gpsewuIE1X3aiIP-ZfVRPs8z7GKrZ5WXuMl-nv_55eFC5iw93mcma78Y-OgQwGtJvgutM/s1600/SDC14951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHxddUW7yrI4HQbbDaXMfcLbOKzw6TxYe2frHUeSn7zV1oxQY21Xa35Ztwx16hPyqxJ0dw3gpsewuIE1X3aiIP-ZfVRPs8z7GKrZ5WXuMl-nv_55eFC5iw93mcma78Y-OgQwGtJvgutM/s400/SDC14951.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This weekend I made soft pretzels for the first time. I was on pinterest, saw a picture of a pretzel, and BAM that's all it took! It sounded SO GOOD! <br />
<br />
The recipe I used was meant to mimic Auntie Annie's Pretzels--which we all know are the best thing in the world since apple pie. They obviously didn't come out exactly like Annie's, but they were so soft and yummy that they were totally worth it!<br />
<br />
To make these pretzels, start by warming two cups of milk in the microwave for 2 minutes. Dump the milk into the bowl of an electric mixer and sprinkle two packets of dry yeast into it. Let stand for 5 minutes or until the yeast is bubbly.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMeav2nfkjGRu-H_U86ujF-3qtdHXazu5y_3QFukIQCpShmn3hVkQGTPuRWta3GTXGKfGhNpgYsbXXl2YTvbSshcTHvblWeQxsAIaatqH73nuMDKynTPwSIG7T0brHMYZNzOsiwuCCJQ/s1600/SDC14938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMeav2nfkjGRu-H_U86ujF-3qtdHXazu5y_3QFukIQCpShmn3hVkQGTPuRWta3GTXGKfGhNpgYsbXXl2YTvbSshcTHvblWeQxsAIaatqH73nuMDKynTPwSIG7T0brHMYZNzOsiwuCCJQ/s400/SDC14938.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Add 6 Tbl of brown sugar, 4 Tbs butter (softened), 2 tsp of salt, and 1 cup of flour. Mix together using the whisk attachment until blended.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5UrShfQDO6MQFhyphenhyphenn2ms_2fsfYro551vRrzjrzI-f7e-cMCSqTz9hAebSJv2J-wJdKryYpdVCvLlRjhE03kAyGE7QPxyIoSWxnSRHO_9lt-iPLZkEplkwYSVSyp_U0roO_-fEpBUN8ZQ/s1600/SDC14939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5UrShfQDO6MQFhyphenhyphenn2ms_2fsfYro551vRrzjrzI-f7e-cMCSqTz9hAebSJv2J-wJdKryYpdVCvLlRjhE03kAyGE7QPxyIoSWxnSRHO_9lt-iPLZkEplkwYSVSyp_U0roO_-fEpBUN8ZQ/s400/SDC14939.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Add 3 1/2 more cups of flour. Switch to the hook attachment and knead until the dough is elastic and pulls away from the edges of the bowl. You may need to add a little bit of extra flour if the dough seems too sticky. However, keep in mind that this dough will be stickier than bread dough as it is meant to be very soft.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bHdtAC0RlO4MCrbag4FhP9MGgNhbAC2w1HDqvJwsfM_5DwV-dCYbQQFk6dENS7m33N4sIGDACxRZNtivuRlEofBZtEPEJWL0AQdLNbpuKFcV5QtxmqAdi7Ib9QqmaMfXx3qmcJNpJ2s/s1600/SDC14942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bHdtAC0RlO4MCrbag4FhP9MGgNhbAC2w1HDqvJwsfM_5DwV-dCYbQQFk6dENS7m33N4sIGDACxRZNtivuRlEofBZtEPEJWL0AQdLNbpuKFcV5QtxmqAdi7Ib9QqmaMfXx3qmcJNpJ2s/s400/SDC14942.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPAET56LFihphJzZ096kgGvqIC9GXbZSX6KVZA5oKB-wxRlUr40GAk_6op2fRSIpBP7ZmG5yyI-8BCknm0T-Uii9M6y6MxXl5VVo4nHMxpQOFc6sQucp9D_n9xtrYYsNg9ntGfAQ4J6Co/s1600/SDC14943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPAET56LFihphJzZ096kgGvqIC9GXbZSX6KVZA5oKB-wxRlUr40GAk_6op2fRSIpBP7ZmG5yyI-8BCknm0T-Uii9M6y6MxXl5VVo4nHMxpQOFc6sQucp9D_n9xtrYYsNg9ntGfAQ4J6Co/s400/SDC14943.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a towel and set aside until doubled (approximately 1 hour). During this time, preheat the oven to 450 degrees.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAO5on-qEszKBdRJi68q2zRN5VGtej59QLi0HbkyySHhNVfNJrTx0g0Gd1AH6vxwseS2jX9LkfM60R21JC_T25u7SEhBFUBxZaKbDQaRIwaH9OBrL-P1fHRjD3x_8tHDDg9BujXR8avl0/s1600/SDC14946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAO5on-qEszKBdRJi68q2zRN5VGtej59QLi0HbkyySHhNVfNJrTx0g0Gd1AH6vxwseS2jX9LkfM60R21JC_T25u7SEhBFUBxZaKbDQaRIwaH9OBrL-P1fHRjD3x_8tHDDg9BujXR8avl0/s400/SDC14946.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once the dough has doubled, uncover it and punch it down. Lightly flour the surface of your counter. Divide the dough into twelve equal parts, placing each piece on the floured surface. Cover the dough with plastic wrap to keep it from forming a dry crust.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixqaAQcCgV_HM6jJCJtbwFv0ImU90rxAez6rxewxX5eZF5QoUAxxZzs9bxGqoh-Dk9WXPN5xFNQLOokd2ysf0QXAra7T_U2M0OE7JmxZKBpvictk8973yH_jfKtagbql-XRWWkVy2bklQ/s1600/SDC14949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixqaAQcCgV_HM6jJCJtbwFv0ImU90rxAez6rxewxX5eZF5QoUAxxZzs9bxGqoh-Dk9WXPN5xFNQLOokd2ysf0QXAra7T_U2M0OE7JmxZKBpvictk8973yH_jfKtagbql-XRWWkVy2bklQ/s400/SDC14949.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of water and 1/3 cup of baking soda. Take one of your pieces of dough and roll it between your hands until you have a very long and skinny "snake". This part was fun and reminded me of playing with play dough when I was little :). The longer and skinnier you make the snake, the thinner and more pretzel-like your pretzel will come out. I actually made mine a little too thick. Keep in mind that the dough is going to rise again while its baking. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Take your snake and fold it in half, then dip it in the baking soda water. Transfer the snake onto a greased cookie sheet and form it into a pretzel. The baking soda water is going to make the dough brown and crispy and give it the characteristic pretzel "taste".</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JiK3lcctCgCl46d43giz3yiGLAI5BwiftlJjKQX7FcDVWYV9Un-yKANSWHRETnhd_9HChvvw9Wb3nWmaVcKujSQKnsC85Sg5EWRDu3OtbGKFaETR9BhHpMQEB_oJUybQ0x-X8z03dqo/s1600/SDC14948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JiK3lcctCgCl46d43giz3yiGLAI5BwiftlJjKQX7FcDVWYV9Un-yKANSWHRETnhd_9HChvvw9Wb3nWmaVcKujSQKnsC85Sg5EWRDu3OtbGKFaETR9BhHpMQEB_oJUybQ0x-X8z03dqo/s400/SDC14948.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Continue until your baking sheet is full. I was only able to do 4-6 at a time, depending on the size of the cookie sheet. Pop your the pretzels into the oven for 7-8 minutes. If your pretzels come out fat like mine, you might need a little extra time for the centers to cook through. You DO NOT want to overcook them or they will not be soft.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie04aBse6JTqEa506MptBO6Q1usn6CNovSgUWgroLeayz1eEuSzJ2jZ1Xojf0vJduanQ4aezGpVh1amKrNx-rUfWPz7xkSBmEx54DnFqyrNV7XREKnDV_GyfVGQ1yfPkJkbRYDGw1B6l0/s1600/SDC14950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie04aBse6JTqEa506MptBO6Q1usn6CNovSgUWgroLeayz1eEuSzJ2jZ1Xojf0vJduanQ4aezGpVh1amKrNx-rUfWPz7xkSBmEx54DnFqyrNV7XREKnDV_GyfVGQ1yfPkJkbRYDGw1B6l0/s400/SDC14950.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Immediately brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with rock salt or cinnamon and sugar. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAEYCEy3jpcP6wKXhg-AAXwJK9_UXADPbIQDQZ4GDozbFAHvK_Nx8YLonbivAECaaoCxsvwPFKgY-hEfZvE7XL99ALr6jRLqDluxk_2HIFXMjt1Ee1nzs9hyyWGaznzZOno6N3-J2xFAI/s1600/SDC14951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAEYCEy3jpcP6wKXhg-AAXwJK9_UXADPbIQDQZ4GDozbFAHvK_Nx8YLonbivAECaaoCxsvwPFKgY-hEfZvE7XL99ALr6jRLqDluxk_2HIFXMjt1Ee1nzs9hyyWGaznzZOno6N3-J2xFAI/s400/SDC14951.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Seriously try not to eat them all in one sitting!! FYI: They reheat fabulously if you pop them into the microwave for 20 seconds...almost as good as the first time around.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This recipe would be fun to do with children as they would LOVE rolling out the "snakes"!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-75449799019209710622013-02-15T07:24:00.000-08:002013-02-15T07:24:22.586-08:00Book Review: Created to Be His Help Meet<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Created-Be-His-Help-Meet/dp/1892112604/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1360940504&sr=8-1&keywords=created+to+be+his+help+meet+by+debi+pearl">Created to Be His Helpmeet</a> (by Debi Pearl), which<a href="http://kravenit.blogspot.com/2013/01/what-im-reading-this-month.html"> I started reading back in January</a> has been such a blessing to my life. I have learned so many valuable lessons for my role as a wife and homemaker. I highly recommend reading this book if you are married or planning to get married in the near future!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51nYtxSXrnL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51nYtxSXrnL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The book is divided into two large sections:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><b>The Helpmeet: </b>Explains what a helpmeet is</li>
<li><b>Titus 2:</b> 8 practical ways to be a helpmeet taken from Titus 2:3-5</li>
</ol>
<div>
In the first section of the book, Debi Pearl goes into detail on the role that God created for the woman and how it relates to the role God created for the man. A woman has no greater joy that to live within the boundaries of the divine calling that God has placed upon her life. Here is a quote from the first chapter:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>"If you are a wife, you were created to fill a need, and in that capacity you are a "good thing," a helper suited to the needs of a man. This is how God created you and it is your purpose for existing. You are, by nature, equipped in every way to be your man's helper. You are inferior to none as long as you function within your created nature, for no man can do your job, and no man is complete without his wife. You were created to make him complete, not to seek personal fulfillment parallel to him. A woman trying to function like a man is as ridiculous as a man trying to be like a woman. When you are a help meet to your husband, you are a helper to Christ."</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
In the next chapters she goes on to describe the character and attributes of a godly help meet. One of my favorite things that she did in this section of the book was to describe three different types of men. According to her they are Mr. Command, Mr. Visionary, and Mr. Steady. She then described what kind of help meet each of these men need in order to complete them and set them free to be the men God wants them to be. I enjoyed figuring out which kind of man my husband is, and it really help me analyze if I was treating him the way he would like to be treated.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In the second section of the book, Debi gives some very practical ways to be a help meet in every day life. The basis of this section is Titus 2:3-5, a clear passage for wives:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>"That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She takes each of the eight things listed above and writes an entire chapter on how to live that out. She shows how when wives neglect to do one or more of these things, they blaspheme God's Word. I loved this part of the book because it gave me real life ideas that I could implement now. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The entire book is riddled with letters and examples from people's lives, making it fun and enjoyable (and at times humorous) to read! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The conclusion of the whole book is that as wives, we have the influence to change the entire course of our marriage--whether it is for good or for bad. God has given us the ability to persuade and influence our husbands to love us, to hate us, to be a leader, to be a loser, to become what God wants him to be, or to tear him down and manipulate him to be what we want him to be. It was very sobering and convicting to see ways in which we take leadership from our husbands without realizing it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Those are my thoughts on this book. I honestly had a hard time putting it down when I was reading it! I hope you will considering purchasing or borrowing a copy to read for yourself! </div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-50902705002866281792013-02-14T18:48:00.000-08:002013-02-14T18:48:02.621-08:00DIY Coupon OrganizerSince getting into this new CVS couponing craze, I've struggled with keeping my coupons organized in a manner that allows me to view, categorize, and access them easily. I tried a couple of methods--putting them into different envelopes by category and storing them in a binder. Neither one of them worked for me. So here's what I came up with one night when I was bored.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I started with these plastic tab separators which I had laying around.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VwfL5kF2gOJmXyQ3wCXGHd2BKm9DlsoVhlvXR9m_3q3i33jVAL8TQgaNJ31D1ICJzI3vKe6IEgs_mHlYLGgWkzWOLcNvX6pDLb0Y7t5tMXLC9GwRvelS-4wINniGIgFlEkYHRtkBjIo/s1600/SDC14863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VwfL5kF2gOJmXyQ3wCXGHd2BKm9DlsoVhlvXR9m_3q3i33jVAL8TQgaNJ31D1ICJzI3vKe6IEgs_mHlYLGgWkzWOLcNvX6pDLb0Y7t5tMXLC9GwRvelS-4wINniGIgFlEkYHRtkBjIo/s400/SDC14863.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Next I emptied a box of maccaroni and cut the edges to the same height as the tab separators. To get nice even edges, I simply laid one of the tab separators on the box and traced it on each edge with a pen. This gave me a straight line to cut on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaLEtzPOpBMlthhNVCvu2wH1F4-4oCwJp68F-D7WKPzZmgBpOIUiDourO_N6dNDr68PBWZRmS_SEotNYRSWzDruPZHA7GigC-H8Az1Oc2ospFRwD2ZtRhB8_uIRGoJ1o_-7gaBKxkyB7I/s1600/SDC14862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaLEtzPOpBMlthhNVCvu2wH1F4-4oCwJp68F-D7WKPzZmgBpOIUiDourO_N6dNDr68PBWZRmS_SEotNYRSWzDruPZHA7GigC-H8Az1Oc2ospFRwD2ZtRhB8_uIRGoJ1o_-7gaBKxkyB7I/s400/SDC14862.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I went through my scrapbook paper and picked out a couple of coordinating pieces to pretty up this box with.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_CGe-Oz_qR7rjc1lzZq5P4NGsSS4gN64vL3Wr3sl563hgn8gBoJGGvRs6JclF8HomZdLgsSfc-2dpQ0L9L0s5LAHmKXmx2HgfkYWhyphenhyphenKUzSIkUh9BOW4DFZrIthXl0tsG07wsNY2Se7I/s1600/SDC14864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_CGe-Oz_qR7rjc1lzZq5P4NGsSS4gN64vL3Wr3sl563hgn8gBoJGGvRs6JclF8HomZdLgsSfc-2dpQ0L9L0s5LAHmKXmx2HgfkYWhyphenhyphenKUzSIkUh9BOW4DFZrIthXl0tsG07wsNY2Se7I/s400/SDC14864.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Using the box as a guide, I cut strips of paper to wrap the exterior with. I started with the wide edges--simply gluing the paper to the cardboard.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOj9kCg6Pv4W2A5SpiIQGxNxk_Ymo28lndqD2_tBjYQHx1D43a9gXzS3_YftvLwb0qVzIdzWHuWSTMMh0Gc3BYAVzUhW1MjaMCl4Ju4zzUecas4lKyEr9IRskY5lESc2o9bfOoC_q11fI/s1600/SDC14865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOj9kCg6Pv4W2A5SpiIQGxNxk_Ymo28lndqD2_tBjYQHx1D43a9gXzS3_YftvLwb0qVzIdzWHuWSTMMh0Gc3BYAVzUhW1MjaMCl4Ju4zzUecas4lKyEr9IRskY5lESc2o9bfOoC_q11fI/s400/SDC14865.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Next, I cut a narrower piece to finish it off.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8qEJHBzRBblV7bxBOtlnc4pOS5DdOtmmr3cmif8o0eZPYzDthTlwKPxjp-q2SLRgs6wb0_OBMzgb0NoLOXsrWdUOn9yEXAGTSXLZLjXSaTP9cIwzRV-ZlZof246MoaqsqbEPhpGdgZes/s1600/SDC14866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8qEJHBzRBblV7bxBOtlnc4pOS5DdOtmmr3cmif8o0eZPYzDthTlwKPxjp-q2SLRgs6wb0_OBMzgb0NoLOXsrWdUOn9yEXAGTSXLZLjXSaTP9cIwzRV-ZlZof246MoaqsqbEPhpGdgZes/s400/SDC14866.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lastly, I did some embellishing with the coordinating paper and some stickers I had on hand.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5Uxrfq8xjobvFvfyM4W1t_660mQBpdURr3x4SUr6ipOnFJSI5NpHPwMf71W2xi2QeSYjJLwJ-GZbXLnAmVaJCZ_FHayCPAS0CW5tMzWwEP0orzRgpt_SE-IIQ66ayJUjJi0fC2QAukw/s1600/SDC14868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5Uxrfq8xjobvFvfyM4W1t_660mQBpdURr3x4SUr6ipOnFJSI5NpHPwMf71W2xi2QeSYjJLwJ-GZbXLnAmVaJCZ_FHayCPAS0CW5tMzWwEP0orzRgpt_SE-IIQ66ayJUjJi0fC2QAukw/s400/SDC14868.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All I had left to do was label the tab separators and pop them in the box. I ended up having to cut them a little shorter widthwise so that they would fit in the box. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ta-da! (sorry about the blurry picture)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KxXjP3w3pkc1-HHRH5sC3Qfv9ScZ3KLReZm5juJygLh3jeEUQmb5QXzubnqvHtqoE8OEBkDGyrGEfw7GsL9Gwgf6aZsz44Ja976Zdiq4fPPEU0nJ50xfyL6kJs5PSr_8UGkuFXt-D7U/s1600/SDC14877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KxXjP3w3pkc1-HHRH5sC3Qfv9ScZ3KLReZm5juJygLh3jeEUQmb5QXzubnqvHtqoE8OEBkDGyrGEfw7GsL9Gwgf6aZsz44Ja976Zdiq4fPPEU0nJ50xfyL6kJs5PSr_8UGkuFXt-D7U/s400/SDC14877.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Coupon organizing problem solved-and for free!! Now all I have to do is clip my coupons and stick them in the right category. Makes it super easy to look through them and see what I have available. Yay!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How do you organize your coupons?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For more ideas on home organizing, head on over to <a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.com/2013_01_01_archive.html">A Living Sacrifice</a> for the January Linky Party.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8221/8407982223_1538d7d890_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8221/8407982223_1538d7d890_m.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-91765109392005350332013-01-26T12:39:00.000-08:002013-01-26T13:52:23.712-08:003 Steps to Cleaning Your Kitchen in Under 30 MinutesI blame my mom for how ocd I am about keeping my house clean. I blame her and I am thankful all at once! She kept our house spotless, and she took the time to teach me how to do it as well. Now that I have my own house, I do things pretty much the same as she does. <br />
<br />
One of the habits that I carried over was once a week deep house cleaning. I love this method because it keeps my house consistently clean--without buildup. If I'm faithful at this cleaning and work to maintain it during the week, cleaning each week doesn't take me very long at all. Today let me show you how I deep clean my kitchen once a week in three simple steps.<br />
<br />
<h3>
1. Take it apart.</h3>
<div>
The first thing I do is get rid of everything on my counters and shelves and dump it all on my kitchen table. I prefer cleaning nice clear open spaces. So seriously....pull everything off...even the things you keep hanging on your fridge. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbkp63Q6i1pmEdFlcrLJUaA073T5kZyRV_ZSbtbVijY0y_UvAl3a2MFoOzHtZIm9zV3jYw_9vcIwDHE04SKYfLSHjeD7W0jhKA38YjLob-h5eoQw7AWXQzV-YHSUg6ftDJzwAJuCBymk/s1600/SDC14829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbkp63Q6i1pmEdFlcrLJUaA073T5kZyRV_ZSbtbVijY0y_UvAl3a2MFoOzHtZIm9zV3jYw_9vcIwDHE04SKYfLSHjeD7W0jhKA38YjLob-h5eoQw7AWXQzV-YHSUg6ftDJzwAJuCBymk/s320/SDC14829.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Your kitchen should be bare and ready to clean now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp5XGlq53PcgOkhyphenhyphensQwzrJT_jnxetnferCXyuXvNcWPfLhKliYuEEsLU3i8QpcgSpp1BdNmI8-j7q4zHZHGcD3g6-xE71dGQnT7ztlML9bX1-kQ0vNQKPKeglqyQ_-kOkc-tjokhy8_jM/s1600/SDC14830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp5XGlq53PcgOkhyphenhyphensQwzrJT_jnxetnferCXyuXvNcWPfLhKliYuEEsLU3i8QpcgSpp1BdNmI8-j7q4zHZHGcD3g6-xE71dGQnT7ztlML9bX1-kQ0vNQKPKeglqyQ_-kOkc-tjokhy8_jM/s320/SDC14830.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAU8BLsyvRms5FEVErk7wxCrMkuXq0QeeZ0rt8h4UiutOK-r7b9g9tJZIncAY-OzEisDb7rcgwBOGM-BTE2Ag2U8iufJappImB2Rx1wy3a6m2yeuQrA8CpwcKF8j_QpSIWFecjinP8Wk/s1600/SDC14831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAU8BLsyvRms5FEVErk7wxCrMkuXq0QeeZ0rt8h4UiutOK-r7b9g9tJZIncAY-OzEisDb7rcgwBOGM-BTE2Ag2U8iufJappImB2Rx1wy3a6m2yeuQrA8CpwcKF8j_QpSIWFecjinP8Wk/s320/SDC14831.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I also pull apart my stove and prep it for cleaning by sprinkling it with Comet. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2idE__G4CyoT-gJY_6k1TR5OS-6z9SWNVD59W2xmbXkp-Hjk4EcWGpraa7CJ-xP0MMCyZZFuBe_iwwm-07kQexU-GIxzQcqwMjfkAo7m73FIYn1fRk-Tceq4b2bOREbMgI_DqPpWwZI/s1600/SDC14832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2idE__G4CyoT-gJY_6k1TR5OS-6z9SWNVD59W2xmbXkp-Hjk4EcWGpraa7CJ-xP0MMCyZZFuBe_iwwm-07kQexU-GIxzQcqwMjfkAo7m73FIYn1fRk-Tceq4b2bOREbMgI_DqPpWwZI/s320/SDC14832.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lastly, I fill up my sink with nice hot soapy water and stick the stove burner pans (is that what they're called?) in there to soak. These are my two best friends when cleaning the kitchen. I usually throw a little of each in my sink full of water:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-zK8VkbPo0HnRK0bseZV2Ce2_9rP4y3RWnR1N2rq33nQ_kKu08cn4IZfTwjevKIiJaf6r9c_NUB2KA9PAeSCqMAPN-eNipAXi3nhgZ-M4kOQBmWq5pFdNaHrCKVH11HIxaFJ3xI0GMw/s1600/SDC14828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-zK8VkbPo0HnRK0bseZV2Ce2_9rP4y3RWnR1N2rq33nQ_kKu08cn4IZfTwjevKIiJaf6r9c_NUB2KA9PAeSCqMAPN-eNipAXi3nhgZ-M4kOQBmWq5pFdNaHrCKVH11HIxaFJ3xI0GMw/s320/SDC14828.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
2. Wipe it down.</h3>
<div>
Once everything is pulled apart and my cleaning water is prepped, I'm ready to quickly wipe everything down. To me, thoroughly wiping down my kitchen each week is important because it keeps grease and dust from building up. I consider it a "preventative" measure. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I seriously wipe EVERYTHING down--all surfaces on every side! I also make sure to frequently rinse my cleaning rag in my hot soapy water.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwS0uYUL1KJllmR-zDzybednna4axTvhYloltB82huFMu5KBx7n8nrRA-cKlksTDMOF0RhSq5LiCv3AxhjFOE2v0NE2ydhl3p5-dQQtW6gvrhbjIErEzVMKQPu1i61CJjVhU-iUp9xAY/s1600/SDC14833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwS0uYUL1KJllmR-zDzybednna4axTvhYloltB82huFMu5KBx7n8nrRA-cKlksTDMOF0RhSq5LiCv3AxhjFOE2v0NE2ydhl3p5-dQQtW6gvrhbjIErEzVMKQPu1i61CJjVhU-iUp9xAY/s320/SDC14833.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dirty microwaves are one of my pet peeves, so I'm always careful to wipe through mine. Tip: if you have lots of gross stuff stuck to the inside of yours, microwave a mug with equal parts water and vinegar on high for 2-3 minutes. I guarantee you everything will wipe right off...it's like magic!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXqBE4_bJoayub8GKlt6b3tsaVKhf5KyM_4G0dP73PfCc76H4LiUwjau8OY_UR3YA-YO7iOb4G3Ihf8GZzX6w85EG1_ZT6JG6PWP4l1QOuwSYs1rpLfEGUOoYZa8kGwhjduK8eaEqJ0FQ/s1600/SDC14834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXqBE4_bJoayub8GKlt6b3tsaVKhf5KyM_4G0dP73PfCc76H4LiUwjau8OY_UR3YA-YO7iOb4G3Ihf8GZzX6w85EG1_ZT6JG6PWP4l1QOuwSYs1rpLfEGUOoYZa8kGwhjduK8eaEqJ0FQ/s320/SDC14834.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh..don't forget to wipe off your garbage can and the top of your refrigerator :) I usually take a peek inside of my refrigerator and wipe off obvious spills if there are any.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCnmgDeiIXWJp2Ge-S51mSKbNeJG9Hq4eXOSTMpkIioI7UBUJlvHD4HLf7qHtACq7wSy7Ru2AsJqR-aVEV10GsNqbecb-uPN5qP43QmN7TRwvuIuQ2JKgm33FW_qu51fN5rKYyw5oiPnM/s1600/SDC14836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCnmgDeiIXWJp2Ge-S51mSKbNeJG9Hq4eXOSTMpkIioI7UBUJlvHD4HLf7qHtACq7wSy7Ru2AsJqR-aVEV10GsNqbecb-uPN5qP43QmN7TRwvuIuQ2JKgm33FW_qu51fN5rKYyw5oiPnM/s320/SDC14836.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbvIQcpZ39IolEoBICAQDa6nhCPrkxy2S2LGrEsleYj9VeLanojg49AXHn4XhKg0V5pI91cFy7vx-OZFVV97W_jtJ9t9p4ABRj-mlx-gtpXxBjvMYzy6XRFwBEmgVDHo99V7lFQdVMXNg/s1600/SDC14837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbvIQcpZ39IolEoBICAQDa6nhCPrkxy2S2LGrEsleYj9VeLanojg49AXHn4XhKg0V5pI91cFy7vx-OZFVV97W_jtJ9t9p4ABRj-mlx-gtpXxBjvMYzy6XRFwBEmgVDHo99V7lFQdVMXNg/s320/SDC14837.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I also like to wipe down all of my cupboard doors and drawers before tackling the stove. They tend to get greasy and stained if you don't. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For my stove, I take my sponge and scrub the surface using the Comet that I previously sprinkled on. I find that since the Comet is somewhat abrasive, it helps remove anything that's stuck on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIcxOT82xFGNqKZvxaCvGGG0eCewZ4ToKN9J_4F0F1PkTFVOyDAhJfS7NRGRcr-rAKKRhHLmiPpgDk8T1USNZCVpQjXmj1TvuseQpClHXvbBC3o1MQPjYM6jpEdw_RSdxc-IBgr9a7ONk/s1600/SDC14839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIcxOT82xFGNqKZvxaCvGGG0eCewZ4ToKN9J_4F0F1PkTFVOyDAhJfS7NRGRcr-rAKKRhHLmiPpgDk8T1USNZCVpQjXmj1TvuseQpClHXvbBC3o1MQPjYM6jpEdw_RSdxc-IBgr9a7ONk/s320/SDC14839.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you can, lift the top of your stove and clean under there as well. This is also a great way to clean the edges of your counters--you know that place where stuff falls between the edge of your stove and the counter?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJXOSLJmXFPJ2ZxfbZeKXETC7uP2Jrt6IRRoup-TIPd3KGDk7ho2Gh7rVwgEq1KBBlHpvxj8U_mbeA0uXjitM4L4hly7Jxxm_vNitJXSMQLWTgVYzIh205yS95_nsBRbqYJXWi0zrJNU/s1600/SDC14840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJXOSLJmXFPJ2ZxfbZeKXETC7uP2Jrt6IRRoup-TIPd3KGDk7ho2Gh7rVwgEq1KBBlHpvxj8U_mbeA0uXjitM4L4hly7Jxxm_vNitJXSMQLWTgVYzIh205yS95_nsBRbqYJXWi0zrJNU/s320/SDC14840.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once I've scrubbed everything with the sponge, I wipe it all down and then shine it up with windex and paper towels. I love how the windex makes my stove gleam and sparkle!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiT1es_BFzQUJDOLT-6uHCPx1fHqvIlhkSCwzXvCb-zJw4Isq_Uon0HdedMIkHnqCLq3YGcPtzvHeW4ZuhVwUCzXfUOnkVjQJOjWuf19qa3WVlKU3-4RFrzFjCiP8yWl0anqEOSmowe2U/s1600/SDC14846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiT1es_BFzQUJDOLT-6uHCPx1fHqvIlhkSCwzXvCb-zJw4Isq_Uon0HdedMIkHnqCLq3YGcPtzvHeW4ZuhVwUCzXfUOnkVjQJOjWuf19qa3WVlKU3-4RFrzFjCiP8yWl0anqEOSmowe2U/s320/SDC14846.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To wrap things up, I wipe down my counters and back splashes, and then drain and wipe down the sink. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At this point...I'm usually feeling wonderful because everything is sparkly and smelling great!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
3. Reassemble it.</h3>
Now all I have left to do is to put everything back where it goes--remember all that stuff I dumped on my kitchen table?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbkp63Q6i1pmEdFlcrLJUaA073T5kZyRV_ZSbtbVijY0y_UvAl3a2MFoOzHtZIm9zV3jYw_9vcIwDHE04SKYfLSHjeD7W0jhKA38YjLob-h5eoQw7AWXQzV-YHSUg6ftDJzwAJuCBymk/s1600/SDC14829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbkp63Q6i1pmEdFlcrLJUaA073T5kZyRV_ZSbtbVijY0y_UvAl3a2MFoOzHtZIm9zV3jYw_9vcIwDHE04SKYfLSHjeD7W0jhKA38YjLob-h5eoQw7AWXQzV-YHSUg6ftDJzwAJuCBymk/s320/SDC14829.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If your floors need cleaning, you should do that last. Unfortunately, I have a carpeted kitchen so I have to drag out my vacuum cleaner for this part.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2SyMSGrR7QiRbQSh2WsXJ-mPnTqMBe2lFn7q5nJjqu3wP0IB16ulPJctMU9Ng4vYFKQHBrLX_7EU0PU1uGc3RO1V-127XC8U5kLTRIKgK4Y8_qcTBsClrYP69MBi7ltq2jdNQ7oxarY/s1600/SDC14855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2SyMSGrR7QiRbQSh2WsXJ-mPnTqMBe2lFn7q5nJjqu3wP0IB16ulPJctMU9Ng4vYFKQHBrLX_7EU0PU1uGc3RO1V-127XC8U5kLTRIKgK4Y8_qcTBsClrYP69MBi7ltq2jdNQ7oxarY/s320/SDC14855.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These three steps to cleaning my kitchen take me less than 30 minutes when I faithfully stick to them each week. That's not very much time! And seriously--don't you just love having a delightfully clean kitchen?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjUvDRli7mV3lkZbS6M3essTgT-FOb-ZytxmObv0OeXWdvdFtLgoYJTwy9Iu5LZcWwACGzqDE9SylccRFXolLzOFsiF8YZu7omXPOu3wzFmzL37Lw-vWwktQKdSFZx2iCPDCxUmYBMRg/s1600/SDC14848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjUvDRli7mV3lkZbS6M3essTgT-FOb-ZytxmObv0OeXWdvdFtLgoYJTwy9Iu5LZcWwACGzqDE9SylccRFXolLzOFsiF8YZu7omXPOu3wzFmzL37Lw-vWwktQKdSFZx2iCPDCxUmYBMRg/s320/SDC14848.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtGm5rx19FhTKa13q6GkGTwRYiPsKDXyxjglSC9Np9yd9igTKk1EFKqRDZZ-1H9rfNgZmwVfDwIxlrmQHbjytAD1ZvALGpogV3hyphenhyphen1K34TN2tbLIj2_UXo-3oUxTXueK69bwcCBvO9PR4/s1600/SDC14847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtGm5rx19FhTKa13q6GkGTwRYiPsKDXyxjglSC9Np9yd9igTKk1EFKqRDZZ-1H9rfNgZmwVfDwIxlrmQHbjytAD1ZvALGpogV3hyphenhyphen1K34TN2tbLIj2_UXo-3oUxTXueK69bwcCBvO9PR4/s320/SDC14847.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTe_OXxb9s8eTPQr5WiiuETtRYPVpQ5cYx4zbdqPDuPcv7GijebqGy2rVEFEeATUbXxXRON2VQaHO-qe6FeVtFEhHso4QDD4R_8z_fcCbv6e_XCKyI1h2sRUwxxcVEoO32ZcXYI7c0vpU/s1600/SDC14852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTe_OXxb9s8eTPQr5WiiuETtRYPVpQ5cYx4zbdqPDuPcv7GijebqGy2rVEFEeATUbXxXRON2VQaHO-qe6FeVtFEhHso4QDD4R_8z_fcCbv6e_XCKyI1h2sRUwxxcVEoO32ZcXYI7c0vpU/s320/SDC14852.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmEn82RSVsOAHyQcpr1cxHaAv928FVZPw_4guIA7-V34f6kmkkYedxrO-d0WUIFF5aAOkzVJfpZH9WXrgC9OKww2EMckbILfNWR_zwLFaECqnkJxOvmYE8n9mUcCoCfFO8f5TDPLt_LA0/s1600/SDC14849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmEn82RSVsOAHyQcpr1cxHaAv928FVZPw_4guIA7-V34f6kmkkYedxrO-d0WUIFF5aAOkzVJfpZH9WXrgC9OKww2EMckbILfNWR_zwLFaECqnkJxOvmYE8n9mUcCoCfFO8f5TDPLt_LA0/s320/SDC14849.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One last tip:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For me, the key to making my kitchen stay clean between cleaning days is maintenance. These are my best friends:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRB_Am9Vay0PEkC9cZuGhbETtTk8DfSZVsa7pITnNA0IG-a0oWNHMxiOsrHCoT-K8sHfSsmN75P2EMhaP2wcF3ZFLh6DKF704lsv3kpNIn1B-JmXqZ_ulV8nEbqoaG9SKNnlrjbGl_ws0/s1600/SDC14856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRB_Am9Vay0PEkC9cZuGhbETtTk8DfSZVsa7pITnNA0IG-a0oWNHMxiOsrHCoT-K8sHfSsmN75P2EMhaP2wcF3ZFLh6DKF704lsv3kpNIn1B-JmXqZ_ulV8nEbqoaG9SKNnlrjbGl_ws0/s320/SDC14856.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I keep these wipes in a handy spot under my kitchen sink and use them to wipe off my stove and counters after meals.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>So what cleaning habits to you have? How do you keep your kitchen clean?</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-34952183073825420952013-01-18T09:04:00.001-08:002013-01-18T09:12:05.949-08:00DIY Twig Wreath<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_H_9-ZQlD5ajyneejDfMaeyt3blr7pc8fnm-VogtO62uJaePdKKLs7rctnWp_sRRwtvil2D6KKHzq8tBhrkf6EzwlaTyU0FzrF5t2L9P2TIEJH4QpNDMRDdrZ04kKEfFoDX4sBOF4yXI/s1600/SDC14781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_H_9-ZQlD5ajyneejDfMaeyt3blr7pc8fnm-VogtO62uJaePdKKLs7rctnWp_sRRwtvil2D6KKHzq8tBhrkf6EzwlaTyU0FzrF5t2L9P2TIEJH4QpNDMRDdrZ04kKEfFoDX4sBOF4yXI/s400/SDC14781.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The time has come to share with you one of my favorite diy projects that I've made for my home. I started this project back in December, but didn't officially finish it until last Saturday--which is why you haven't seen it until now :). Unfortunately, I don't have pictures of the step by step creation of the project, but the concept is simple.<br />
<br />
So for awhile, I have been trying to find ways to spice up the look of our bathroom. While it was clean and neat, it kind of looked drab and boring. I had been keeping my eye out for an inexpensive project that would make it look "homier" (is that ok to say for a bathroom?).<br />
<br />
I originally got my project idea from a fall wreath that caught my eye on Pinterest. Isn't it just gorgeous?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-g8HM8rQJ2h9pfhdHwDQDJQ7NDbyYLb0hsREk9v5qFoXcyiRSUBhnfz9pjTogZkY5sMYr4MKTVVFtDdgCDDzgotUT3zUfDvjmJbN1xVlqmrukV9PcXuhLcywhQNfHoeygMJVYD5OV40M/s640/IMG_5863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-g8HM8rQJ2h9pfhdHwDQDJQ7NDbyYLb0hsREk9v5qFoXcyiRSUBhnfz9pjTogZkY5sMYr4MKTVVFtDdgCDDzgotUT3zUfDvjmJbN1xVlqmrukV9PcXuhLcywhQNfHoeygMJVYD5OV40M/s320/IMG_5863.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you go over to <a href="http://yellowmums.blogspot.com/2011/09/sunshine-wreath.html">Yellow Mums</a>, you can read a full tutorial (with beautiful step by step pictures) on how to create the twig base--and rolled flowers if you want to go that route! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Like I said earlier, the idea is simple:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><b>Go on a walk and collect lots and lots of branches</b>. Devin was a great sport and trekked out to the woods with me to help carry them back.</li>
<li><b>Snip your branches so that they are all approximately the same length. </b>WARNING: this part can be messy :). My living room floor was a testimony to that! You can play around with the lengths. I like the look of having some shorter than others. </li>
<li><b>Cut a circular ring out of cardboard. </b>I used a heavy piece of cardboard from a box that I had lying around. Mine was probably 8-9 inches in diameter from the outside edges. The ring was probably 2-3 inches wide.</li>
<li><b>Using a glue gun, glue the branches to the cardboard ring. </b>This part is fun! I had a blast fitting the branches together for the best look. Almost like doing a puzzle!</li>
<li><b>Embelish! </b>Okay, so you want something to go around the middle of those branches--otherwise you'll have some ugly cardboard peeking through. Not to mention it just looks...well, unfinished. Back in December, when I completed the twig portion of this project, I wasn't sure what to put around the middle. I considered fabric flowers like the ones above, but I didn't have any fabric on hand. I did have some stems with tiny blue and white flowers on them that I had picked up at the dollar store awhile back. The colors were perfect for our bathroom, so I glued them between some of the branches and called it good until I could come up with an alternate idea for those rolled fabric flowers.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Enter coffee filters. Who knew they were GREAT for crafting flowers? Being that we are coffee drinkers, I had plenty on hand! So last Saturday while we sat around relaxing and basically doing nothing but watching crime shows all afternoon, I perused the internet and to find a style of flower I liked. Let me tell you--there are so many different kinds of coffee filter flowers! I finally settled on these:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickaNVqcdYsbXoLcWPPpGGy62bFpnlSomyUPpJXWnTPwW-iqFC_nAO2guV3i7L7_cF8HleHQKtPWUtjE6eRVmCpIXe_FcQ7uAo1Q4PaUPnbTkJgTUCVmDi2kxqravPBHEEwbZQ584HoUJ7/s640/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickaNVqcdYsbXoLcWPPpGGy62bFpnlSomyUPpJXWnTPwW-iqFC_nAO2guV3i7L7_cF8HleHQKtPWUtjE6eRVmCpIXe_FcQ7uAo1Q4PaUPnbTkJgTUCVmDi2kxqravPBHEEwbZQ584HoUJ7/s400/016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pretty, right? <a href="http://twoshadesofpink.blogspot.com/2012/04/coffee-filter-flowers-and-video.html">Two Shades of Pink</a> has an excellent tutorial (video included) on how to make these. I chose to keep my flowers white--partly because I was too lazy to try dying them, and partly because white really does match our bathroom. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
An hour and 45 coffee filters later.....ta da!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHBhRNTC6Fbm0gFM1k9MRYN_RYPbP16FgN7sVoBeTyM5U1fE027UDJCiyR8FrmlNU4I4DS3LbcKCzY-jQ9C5XGhsLuBmf2pThUoqwAvsnMqkcREEkRSCfH02tp1l5p44X6llNKegn0mOY/s1600/SDC14778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHBhRNTC6Fbm0gFM1k9MRYN_RYPbP16FgN7sVoBeTyM5U1fE027UDJCiyR8FrmlNU4I4DS3LbcKCzY-jQ9C5XGhsLuBmf2pThUoqwAvsnMqkcREEkRSCfH02tp1l5p44X6llNKegn0mOY/s320/SDC14778.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My only regret is gluing on the smaller flowers before I made the large ones. I tried pulling them off, but alas I used too much glue. If I could do it over again, I would put the large ones on first and then arrange the small ones so that they stick out further. But anyways, overall I love it! It matches my blue and brown bathroom decor, and helps add some color and interest to my stark bathroom walls!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cost of the entire project: $1 (what I paid for those small blue and white flowers)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Folks, its a winner!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0h06vHR8osrkmGZcfjExGdVoJk0yDvPhxbN1XSGi_alDKgjykRqbha7x_5NeF5jcgXy04fr8dmGHYrXLPfUFChtKH_wN-v_BFm5Vq_0c-8-ze2Yy6b-sdXa24Q2CGoyu_C4CGHlzcjBM/s1600/SDC14780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0h06vHR8osrkmGZcfjExGdVoJk0yDvPhxbN1XSGi_alDKgjykRqbha7x_5NeF5jcgXy04fr8dmGHYrXLPfUFChtKH_wN-v_BFm5Vq_0c-8-ze2Yy6b-sdXa24Q2CGoyu_C4CGHlzcjBM/s320/SDC14780.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzn3A2YqVie3LzwKdGSX1VE6prH88NR5GjYa47YpxLAx6XehPf0-49n6pNFvAAX8CeRG-7ceT3gLvYKyptpHb2MM7msqt_h7hprQ5isPavoTv0OhLRT9D8Tg4kwuVhnAlpd7tq6iynDS8/s1600/SDC14782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzn3A2YqVie3LzwKdGSX1VE6prH88NR5GjYa47YpxLAx6XehPf0-49n6pNFvAAX8CeRG-7ceT3gLvYKyptpHb2MM7msqt_h7hprQ5isPavoTv0OhLRT9D8Tg4kwuVhnAlpd7tq6iynDS8/s320/SDC14782.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.blissfulanddomestic.com/" title="Blissful and Domestic"><img alt="Blissful and Domestic" src="http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc500/Blissful_and_Domestic/blogger%20buttons%20and%20banner/featurefridaylinkypartybutton.png" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-8927633909760339402013-01-16T06:33:00.002-08:002013-01-16T11:31:21.412-08:00Cheesy Vegetable ChowderLast night was my "going meatless" experiment night. I personally think it was a huge success! I tried a new recipe which I'm going to share with you shortly. We got lots of vitamins from nutritious veggies in a "comfort" soup packed with flavour. I also made some homemade rolls to accompany it. Yum!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmkV4kftvC9vZXIdmuj5Q03BbK1p-iX6zz8qjt-jAJ-DLBrMjf51-kc2ksLSqewhtzSjtH2sMQacIUs9DaVJP6NQr73Mr7g55ZusyQxnVigWe-2GuF-GCmG3EsidMOvp4BvpIPW1uhBB3/s1600/IMG_3660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmkV4kftvC9vZXIdmuj5Q03BbK1p-iX6zz8qjt-jAJ-DLBrMjf51-kc2ksLSqewhtzSjtH2sMQacIUs9DaVJP6NQr73Mr7g55ZusyQxnVigWe-2GuF-GCmG3EsidMOvp4BvpIPW1uhBB3/s400/IMG_3660.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
I originally found this recipe through pinterest over at <a href="http://luluthebaker.blogspot.com/2011/09/cheesy-vegetable-chowder.html">Lulu the Baker</a>. Credit for this recipe goes completely to her! I simply tweeked it and added some personal flair :)<br />
<br />
<h3>
Cheesy Vegetable Chowder</h3>
<strong>Ingredients</strong><br />
2 T butter<br />
1 medium onion, chopped<br />
3 carrots, sliced<br />
2 celery stalks, sliced<br />
3-4 fresh garlic cloves, minced<br />
4 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)<br />
4 cups water<br />
3 potatoes, diced<br />
3 T cornstarch<br />
1/2 cup water<br />
2 cups cut broccoli<br />
other frozen veggies<br />
2 cups milk<br />
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese<br />
<br />
<strong>Directions</strong><br />
In a large soup pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery and heat until tender. Add fresh garlic and continue to sautee for 1 or 2 more minutes. Pour in broth & water <em>(note--if you want a stronger flavour, you could add more broth and less water--whatever works! I used veggie broth because it's what I had on hand, but I think in the future I'll use chicken broth instead) </em>Add diced potatoes. Heat until broth is boiling and potatoes are tender. In a separate bowl, whisk together water and cornstarch. Pour into soup and simmer for a couple minutes until slightly thickened. Add broccoli, any other frozen veggies you want <em>(I used corn and green beans) </em>and milk. Simmer until veggies are heated through and tender. Stir in shredded cheese. Allow to melt & serve!<br />
<br />
<br />
I'm telling you folks, the cheese makes this recipe! This soup is perfect for staying warm and cozy on a cold winter night. <br />
<br />
We have lots of leftovers (my fave!) to warm up for lunch today. <br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-42237853687033989652013-01-11T07:53:00.001-08:002013-01-11T07:56:06.924-08:00What I'm Reading This Month<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKrrSUxL5QvcNvoCaJWpjnkeTYRWNmYxfTjw5m6WuTpbZ444_4dRecfOqs0CUIscnrveFJ-6beRBHX2YjcHbZ07411rIgN8_1HCNFIz8CMegqTg-ZapyoxpTWR44QDpdnApfuQljlVpo/s1600/SDC14770+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKrrSUxL5QvcNvoCaJWpjnkeTYRWNmYxfTjw5m6WuTpbZ444_4dRecfOqs0CUIscnrveFJ-6beRBHX2YjcHbZ07411rIgN8_1HCNFIz8CMegqTg-ZapyoxpTWR44QDpdnApfuQljlVpo/s400/SDC14770+(1).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Reading has been one of my favorite things to do ever since I can remember. Books were valued birthday and Christmas gifts. I remember spending whole days engrossed in a book I couldn't put down (whole nights too!! :) ). I pretty much read whatever I could get my hands on--even the encyclopedia...nerdy, I know.<br />
<br />
My time schedule drastically changed in college, and since I spent all of my time reading books for classes, I had little time left for pleasure reading. Unfortunately, I haven't gotten back into the habit since graduation. This year, I'm making an effort to dedicate more time to reading books that will help me grow--and books that are just "for fun"! <br />
<br />
Here is what I am currently taking up:<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Changed Into His Image</span> </b>by Jim Berg<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51AQH8AX4BL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51AQH8AX4BL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm going through this book with the ladies from my ladies' Bible study at church. We typically study one chapter and meet on a monthly basis to discuss it. This book is so challenging and cuts to the chase on so many issues. I'm currently working through Chapter 5 which deals with mortifying the flesh. It is thought provoking and calls for practical action and change in my life. This is a great book, and I would highly recommend it!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Created to Be His Help Meet</span></b> by Debi Pearl<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51nYtxSXrnL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51nYtxSXrnL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
My grandmother gave me this book shortly before I got married. I've heard others mention that this is a good book, so I was excited to receive it! I just started reading it today, and so far it looks promising. I'll have to update you more once I've read further.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">A Voice in the Wind</span> </b>by Francine Rivers<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Z1LSzhGhL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Z1LSzhGhL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This book is going to be my "for fun" reading. I love Francine Rivers as an author. She is inspiring because she writes stories around moral issues(divorce, abortion, etc.). She's written a series "Lineage of Grace" that was phenomenal! Each book in the series portrayed a woman of the Bible who became a part of the lineage of Christ. But back to this book, it's part of a threesome and appears to take place in ancient Rome. I'll let you know more about this one once I actually start reading it. I can already tell it's going to be hard to put down though!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Bible </span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61u0os6vEdL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61u0os6vEdL.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I love my Scofield Study Bible. It was given to me as a graduation gift from my parents when I completed high school. This month I'm going to be working my way through the book of Romans--one of my favorite books of the Bible. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
What are you reading right now? I'd love suggestions for good books I should read next!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-38011295911810369772013-01-10T10:14:00.002-08:002013-01-11T08:16:53.551-08:00Quick & Easy Chicken & Rice Soup5 Things I LOVE about soups:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>They're easy</li>
<li>They're tasty</li>
<li>They stretch</li>
<li>They're inexpensive</li>
<li>They're healthy (for the most part :) )</li>
</ol>
<div>
Here's a soup I made for dinner last night. We had our fill for dinner, ate it again for lunch today, and still have one or two rounds left of it! Seriously...how can you not love soup? When you make soup, remember that it's just as easy to make a huge soup as it is to make a small one. Make more than you need for your meal. You can freeze the extra for a later meal, or simply refrigerate them to serve as lunches throughout the week. Yum!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXP5XyUVuLfLxhj5QV4hY6ULMhibxmqMU5dLtyycvXMKY8u8sX7h29-6DkG_d2XrSe-8Oal2IsxB_aIulaWWFGWcok6RM0HZomA4C172O0AeHTmh5kklFZpHMw8QHHE8T_YZ-wcTJ5gA/s1600/SDC14757+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXP5XyUVuLfLxhj5QV4hY6ULMhibxmqMU5dLtyycvXMKY8u8sX7h29-6DkG_d2XrSe-8Oal2IsxB_aIulaWWFGWcok6RM0HZomA4C172O0AeHTmh5kklFZpHMw8QHHE8T_YZ-wcTJ5gA/s400/SDC14757+(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
1 T extra virgin olive oil</div>
<div>
1 medium onion, chopped</div>
<div>
2 garlic cloves, minced</div>
<div>
3-4 medium carrots, divided in half the long way and sliced</div>
<div>
2 celery stalks, divided in half the long way and sliced</div>
<div>
8 oz frozen peas</div>
<div>
dried parsley</div>
<div>
celery seed or salt</div>
<div>
24 oz chicken stock</div>
<div>
2-3 c water</div>
<div>
2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded</div>
<div>
2 cups cooked rice</div>
<div>
salt & pepper</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Directions:</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
Place oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, & celery. Cook and stir for about 6 minutes until veggies are soft but not browned. Add frozen peas, parsley, and celery seed. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring the liquid to a boil. Stir in shredded chicken and cooked rice. Season with salt & pepper to taste. Simmer on low until ready to serve.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
*Note: for the shredded chicken, I just throw the chicken breasts in a pot with 2 cups of water and boil until they're cooked through (30 min. or so). Once they're cooled, I shred them with a fork. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.blissfulanddomestic.com/" title="Blissful and Domestic"><img alt="Blissful and Domestic" src="http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc500/Blissful_and_Domestic/blogger%20buttons%20and%20banner/featurefridaylinkypartybutton.png" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-50374691786886941712013-01-10T08:05:00.000-08:002013-01-10T08:17:47.590-08:00Budget and Meal Planning Goals for the New YearHappy (late) New Year to all! I am back in the world of blogger after a 3 week sabbatical. We had a wonderful time in Maine celebrating Christmas and the New Year with friends and family! Good times were had and memories were made. All of that being said, it is nice to be back home and settled back into the routine of "normal" life!<br />
<br />
Over the holidays I had quite a bit of time to do some blog reading and perusing. I was encouraged and challenged by several different blogging women in the area of planning and budgeting--namely, <a href="http://www.moneysavingmom.com/">Money Saving Mom</a> and <a href="http://www.blissfulanddomestic.com/">Blissful and Domestic</a>. As a result, I've set some goals for implementing some new, budget-friendly and organizational ideas.<br />
<br />
I'm always looking for ways that I can save money and lower expenses when it comes to meal planning and buying groceries. Devin and I have done well so far--shopping once a week, looking for sales, using coupons, and buying food items that will stretch and be useful for different kinds of meals. Even though we didn't do to bad last year, I think we can do better. Here are some of the goals I've set to improve myself in this area during 2013:<br />
<br />
<h3>
Have a Meal Plan</h3>
<div>
Having a meal plan works wonders in so many ways. I hate it when four o'clock rolls around and I still have no idea what's for supper! And I'm sure you'll all be familiar with this one if you're married: "Honey, what do you want for supper tonight?"...."Oh, I don't care; anything sounds good." Yeah...not so helpful, right? Another pet peeve of mine is people who go to the store and browse when they don't know what to make for supper. Usually, these kinds of people end up spending $30-$40 because they impulse buy items that they see but don't need while browsing for supper.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Having a simple meal plan to stick to will help you avoid all of the above scenarios while helping you use what you have in your cupboards and stay withing a budget. When I first started planning meals for the week, I used this method:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXZ7PNGOCfZzuMOeQRRNJnjhLTCeKx7A3bmG-2oHf08AyGqkZHrL8fsa059RgjPj3RJU9agySdktSacexRb5CKzG3EUxTbhAjCrmCTZMyoA8-QmmL7FWWlCtuuN1vBJK_EMgSBe3vmT0/s1600/menu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXZ7PNGOCfZzuMOeQRRNJnjhLTCeKx7A3bmG-2oHf08AyGqkZHrL8fsa059RgjPj3RJU9agySdktSacexRb5CKzG3EUxTbhAjCrmCTZMyoA8-QmmL7FWWlCtuuN1vBJK_EMgSBe3vmT0/s320/menu.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This menu board was a pinterest-inspired project that was supposed to work GREAT! The idea is to have cards with meals printed on them sitting in the little box to the right. I could then pin up a meal for each day on the clothespins to the left. The only problem was, I never did it. I found that it was hard to stick to such a specific meal plan. While this might work for some, I prefer more flexibility.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm currently using a "themed night" meal plan, which I like much better. The idea is to assign a theme to each night of the week. You then make a meal that fits the category for that day. Here are mine:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Monday: </b>Burgers</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Tuesday: </b>Chicken</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Wednesday: </b>Soup</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Thursday: </b>Beef</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Friday: </b>Homemade Pizza</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Saturday: </b>Leftovers/Spontaneous</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So far this has worked really well for me! I'm also having fun trying new recipes for each category. My personal favorite is soup night. Devin and I both love soups, and they are so versatile and inexpensive to make. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To sum it up, find a meal planning strategy that works for you...and use it! This is a huge time and money saver!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Stick to a Budgeted Amount</h3>
<div>
This one is really important! With Devin in college and both us working part time, we can't afford to not have a budgeted amount to spend on groceries. It's crazy how much money you can spend when you don't have a plan, isn't it? There are several things to keep in mind when setting a budget goal for yourself:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><u>Be realistic</u>--Don't set a goal that is so low you won't be able to keep it. You don't want to constantly be discouraged! </li>
<li><u>Analyze your current spending</u>--Figure out how much you're currently spending on groceries, and average it out to a weekly amount. </li>
<li><u>Take small steps</u>--If you've realized you need to lower your spending, don't do it all at once. Instead, see if you can lower your budget a $2-$3 at a time each week. It might not look like much at first, but after a few months, you will start to see a big difference.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Money Saving Mom recommends the cash method for those who struggle with sticking to a budget. To use this system, withdraw the amount you've budgeted for grocery in cash, and don't allow yourself to even THINK about plastic when you go shopping! </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Devin and I find that we do find staying within our budget even though we don't use the cash system. We have a rewards system for groceries on our credit card, so we use it--wisely! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To sum it up, figure out how much you should be spending on groceries each week and find a way to stick to that amount.<br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
Shop Every Two Weeks</h3>
<div>
This is going to be a big one for me this year! It's a challenge, and I'm loving it so far. Like I mentioned before, Devin and I have been doing our grocery shopping once a week for the past months. It works well, but going to the store that often has its setbacks. I don't care how wise you are with your money, the more often you go to the store, the more likely you are to spend more money. <a href="http://www.blissfulanddomestic.com/">Blissful and Domestic</a> shares how she shops only once a month--wow! Unfortunately, I don't have the freezer space for that, but I knew I could easily switch to every other week. Here are some tips I've been using to make this work:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><u>Utilize your freezer</u>--There are so many things you can freeze that I wasn't aware of! Bread and meat are to biggies for me. You can also freeze things like chopped fruit and veggies, milk, butter, and so much more.</li>
<li><u>Keep a list of staples</u>--With the help of my friend Google, I compiled a list of things that I think should be in my pantry at all times. I printed off the list and have it hanging on my refrigerator. The items listed are staples that can be used for multiple meals--pasta, rice, seasonings, canned goods, freezer/fridge items, etc. I use this as a checklist when I before I go shopping to make sure I have everything stocked. This keeps me from forgetting to buy anything. </li>
<li><u>Meal Plan</u>--Well..we already talked about this one! But seriously, use your meal plan to help you fill in your shopping list.</li>
</ol>
<div>
By shopping every two weeks, I'm hoping to cut my budget by at least 30%.<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<h3>
Think Outside the Box</h3>
<div>
Don't limit yourself! Try new things--you might surprise yourself and like them! One of the things I'm challenging myself with this year is going meatless once a week. The easiest way I see myself doing this right now is in the form of soups. I've already found some that sound delicious and use...yep--zero meat! For me, this is a way I can cut spending while still having a nutritional and delicious meal. Homemade pizza night is another way of doing this.<br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
Keep In Touch With Like-Minded People</h3>
Talk to friends who have similar goals and encourage each other. Share ideas, recipes, deals, and whatever else. Keep yourselves accountable to sticking to your goals. Also, read blogs and books to glean ideas from others who have already implemented goals like these. Like I mentioned before, <a href="http://www.moneysavingmom.com/">Money Saving Mom</a> and <a href="http://www.blissfulanddomestic.com/">Blissful and Domestic</a> have really challenged me in these areas. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thank you for bearing with me in this long and detailed post. I hope it has challenged you! I would love to hear your ideas for budgeting and meal planning. Do you have goals similar to mine? Have I missed anything that I should be doing? <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-57651532441596312602012-12-17T08:11:00.001-08:002012-12-17T08:11:52.227-08:0025 Days of Christmas: Day 17--Genealogy of Christ<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6eWXWfy-wPgrqlmF6A5qOIuZ4yNUFzjCgGBtcqSY9yK3H6RimrcObNSttSKFlCuz37SWOry79-effBPH-nie7vt6uVsa_JkTbRaSrIW-TJFhCcIqmZl7G-4Oq4DgFNg4q8FHJuvBrMI/s400/25+days+of+Christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6eWXWfy-wPgrqlmF6A5qOIuZ4yNUFzjCgGBtcqSY9yK3H6RimrcObNSttSKFlCuz37SWOry79-effBPH-nie7vt6uVsa_JkTbRaSrIW-TJFhCcIqmZl7G-4Oq4DgFNg4q8FHJuvBrMI/s400/25+days+of+Christmas.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Good morning readers! I'm excited about today's post, and I hope you will take the time to read and enjoy it as well. I've invited my long time friend and fellow-blogger, Nicole, from <a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.com/">A Living Sacrifice</a> to share one of her posts from the series <a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.com/2012/11/christmas-character-spotlight-joseph.html">Christmas Character Spotlights</a> that she is running on her blog. In this series, Nicole invites us to put aside our holiday hustle and bustle and take time to reflect on the characters involved in the Christmas story. This is what Christmas is all about, folks. </b><br />
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>So, take a couple of minutes, grab a cup of coffee, and sit down to relax and take in these thoughts. Thank you, Nicole, for being with us today!</b></div>
<div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Character Spotlight: Genealogy of Christ</b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/90605184@N06/8279827972/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="genealogy by nico-lynn, on Flickr"><img alt="genealogy" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8355/8279827972_448c41aa28.jpg" /></a>I know what you are thinking.
Genealogy?? Are you for real? It is Christmas, and you want to talk about <i>Genealogies</i>??
‘Fraid so.
But this isn’t just any genealogy. It is the genealogy of Christ. And <b>He</b> is the One this season is centered around, right?
Over the last few weeks I’ve been taking a look into <a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.ca/search/label/Christmas%20story" target="_blank">the details of various characters from the Christmas story</a>. And I nearly forgot to include the lives of 5 of the most unique characters that are included in this story.
<b>
And that is where the genealogy comes in.</b>
You’ll find this genealogy in Matthew 1. Woven into this long list of names no one can pronounce are the lives of 5 women that God saw fit to include in Christ’s lineage. 5 women that would never have been looked at as worthy of this honor. 5 women who’s lives may not look so different from yours or mine.
Lets take a quick look at them.
First, we find <b>Thamar</b> in verse 3, which is another spelling for the name Tamar, found in Genesis 38. She was the daughter-in-law of Judah, brother of Joseph and the man from which came the tribe of Judah. <b>Her story is not a very pretty one.</b> The despicable and degrading story told in this chapter reveals the sin in Tamar’s life, who was willing to sell her body to get what was rightfully hers. Nothing good is ever said about Tamar, no blessing was promised to her during her life, and we likely would never have heard of her, had God not seen fit to use her to fulfill the promise of the Messiah.
The second lady worth of mention in Matthew 1 is Rachab, or <b>Rahab</b> as we know her in the Old Testament. Her story is found in Joshua 2 and 6, intermingled with the popular “wall of Jericho” story. Rahab is known throughout scripture for one thing: being a harlot. Not the legacy you’d like to be known for, is it? Up until this time in Joshua 2, <b>there is no indication that she had left her sinful lifestyle.</b> But after the spies came, and she, by faith, trusted Christ to save her and her family, her life was different. She was accepted by the Israelites into their communities and lifestyle. She left her old life, and was given a new one by God’s grace. Not only does she appear in the line of Christ, but also in the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11:31.
Next we have <b>Ruth</b>, whom I am sure is no stranger to any of you. With a whole book dedicated to her story, she is perhaps the most well-known of them all. But she was still an unlikely candidate for being in the Messianic line. She was not an Israelite, not one of God’s chosen people. <b>She grew up practicing idol worship and other abominable acts.</b> Her mother-in-law Naomi gave Ruth her first glimpse of the God of the Israelites, even though Naomi was a bitter woman. Yet despite this, Ruth left her pagan religion and chose to follow Christ by faith, little knowing that by doing so she was placing herself in his Kingly line.
The fourth lady is not mentioned by name in Matthew 1, but simply known as David’s wife, “her that had been the wife of Urias.” This is speaking of <b>Bathsheba</b>, who was taken by David in a moment of sin and weakness, and then widowed by that same man. (II Samuel 11 tells the story.) I am sure hers was a life of tears and sorrow at that point! <b>I can not imagine the deep trials she had to endure, little knowing that it served a purpose in bringing the Saviour of the world to earth in human flesh.</b> If Bathsheba could but have seen the future, I am sure she would have gloried in her tribulations!
Lastly, <b>Mary</b> is mentioned in verse 18. I’ve already <a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.ca/2012/12/christmas-character-spotlight-mary.html" target="_blank">spent time talking about her,</a> and certainly her story is well known, especially at this time of year. But of all women to be most unlikely, this poor, humble, virgin girl was not looking for the public attention nor for the years of honor this event would bring her. <b>She was nothing...but she was willing to be used by God, and that made all the difference. </b>
<b>Each of these women was an unlikely candidate for the royal line.</b> Yet God saw fit to take them out of their lives of sin, despair, and lowliness, and give them this place in a Godly heritage. None were suspecting of it, none knew it at the time, but each was still used. Why? Because God chooses the humble, willing people to accomplish His will. He is not asking for us to be rich, famous, or even “best in show”...He uses the willing. <b>And if we would submit ourselves to His will and simply be willing, we too could see our lives used to accomplish great things. </b>
No matter where we’ve been, or what we’ve done; no matter our station or position (or lack of!); no matter how many times we’ve failed or fallen short, God is willing to use us if we’ll let Him.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/482084_275699712507884_2006853502_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/482084_275699712507884_2006853502_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<i>Nicole is an avid reader and coffee drinker, who loves her Saviour, her sewing machine, and fleece sheets. She blogs at <a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Living Sacrifice</a> and runs <a href="http://etsy.com/shop/nicolerisinger" target="_blank">a small online shop</a>. Between sewing and blogging she can be found playing the piano, reading a good book, or chatting with friends.</i>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-24351277533757518242012-12-14T12:15:00.000-08:002012-12-14T12:17:33.513-08:00Giveaway ResultsCongratulations on the winners of today's Christmas Giveaway!!! <br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">The winner from my blog's entries is: Kristy Legg! </span></b><br />
Congratulations Kristy on winning this warm, winter headband:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxDXdYULJIrUyTA1MGNZzx_JaFkEE7-BSEz3xrvZevzcTB2J-A93wb_3zA2GDeJnTGjbYRFoZtORAGfIGBK1MwoIUOfVl8du8sPkNZc06RHssJ7d20VnkznC5XX-16IJqT4Q86KIT3S7Q/s400/headband.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxDXdYULJIrUyTA1MGNZzx_JaFkEE7-BSEz3xrvZevzcTB2J-A93wb_3zA2GDeJnTGjbYRFoZtORAGfIGBK1MwoIUOfVl8du8sPkNZc06RHssJ7d20VnkznC5XX-16IJqT4Q86KIT3S7Q/s400/headband.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">The winner from A<a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.com/"> Living Sacrifice's</a> blog entries is: Rita Chamberlain!</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Congratulations Rita on winning this cute, toddler hat:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fIzF3tq7Xt7jDMVsK1okh6JT8A4I4cWTjuYMLoPAAImpl8BbKkWEtK0fVCUN0KSu4xMJysl2IUo9NrmeLCrlemiLGelZpkgNYt4M9qcmP9V0qxw-inoO-3bn6kw7KiThJDp9dK6oyI8/s400/Presentation1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fIzF3tq7Xt7jDMVsK1okh6JT8A4I4cWTjuYMLoPAAImpl8BbKkWEtK0fVCUN0KSu4xMJysl2IUo9NrmeLCrlemiLGelZpkgNYt4M9qcmP9V0qxw-inoO-3bn6kw7KiThJDp9dK6oyI8/s320/Presentation1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Winners were chosen randomly by random.org. If you are a winner, please contact me with your mailing address!<br />
<br />
Thank you to all of you who participated! If you didn't win, but you would like to order one of these items, please contact me! You can also <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/KravenIt">visit my etsy shop</a> to check out some of the other things I have for sale.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8126049461387488284.post-32876892571884361712012-12-14T10:51:00.003-08:002012-12-14T10:51:59.074-08:00ONE MORE HOUR TO ENTER!Yikes! One more hour to enter my Christmas giveaway!! <a href="http://kravenit.blogspot.com/2012/12/25-days-of-christmas-day-11-giveaway.html">Head on over here to enter</a>, or visit <a href="http://nicoleslifeafter20.blogspot.com/2012/12/how-about-christmas-giveaway.html">A Living Sacrifice!</a> Be sure to come back later today to find out who has won!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fIzF3tq7Xt7jDMVsK1okh6JT8A4I4cWTjuYMLoPAAImpl8BbKkWEtK0fVCUN0KSu4xMJysl2IUo9NrmeLCrlemiLGelZpkgNYt4M9qcmP9V0qxw-inoO-3bn6kw7KiThJDp9dK6oyI8/s640/Presentation1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fIzF3tq7Xt7jDMVsK1okh6JT8A4I4cWTjuYMLoPAAImpl8BbKkWEtK0fVCUN0KSu4xMJysl2IUo9NrmeLCrlemiLGelZpkgNYt4M9qcmP9V0qxw-inoO-3bn6kw7KiThJDp9dK6oyI8/s400/Presentation1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxDXdYULJIrUyTA1MGNZzx_JaFkEE7-BSEz3xrvZevzcTB2J-A93wb_3zA2GDeJnTGjbYRFoZtORAGfIGBK1MwoIUOfVl8du8sPkNZc06RHssJ7d20VnkznC5XX-16IJqT4Q86KIT3S7Q/s640/headband.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxDXdYULJIrUyTA1MGNZzx_JaFkEE7-BSEz3xrvZevzcTB2J-A93wb_3zA2GDeJnTGjbYRFoZtORAGfIGBK1MwoIUOfVl8du8sPkNZc06RHssJ7d20VnkznC5XX-16IJqT4Q86KIT3S7Q/s400/headband.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05950243061868412277noreply@blogger.com0