Cookie Frog

Cookie Frog

Prep Time:
5 minTotal Time:
15 min
Makes:
1 serving

2 miniature pretzel twists
1 OREO Chocolate Sandwich Cookie
1/4 tsp. ready-to-spread vanilla frosting
2 candy-coated chocolate pieces ATTACH pretzels to bottom of cookie with some of the frosting for the frog's feet.

PLACE, pretzel-side down, on plate.

USE remaining frosting to attach candies to top of cookie for the eyes. Let stand until frosting is firm.
Kraft Kitchens Tips
Size-WiseHave fun with your kids by making this fun treat together. Then, use it to teach them about portion control.SubstituteSubstitute nonpareils for the chocolate pieces. SubstitutePrepare as directed, using a CHIPS AHOY! Real Chocolate Chip Cookie.

Crunchy Poppyseed Chicken Salad

Crunchy Poppyseed Chicken Salad

Prep Time:
15 minTotal Time:
15 minMakes:
4 servings

4 cups broccoli slaw
2 large red peppers, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
4 carrots, shredded (about 2 cups)
1 can (8 oz.) pineapple tidbits, drained
1 pkg. (6 oz.) OSCAR MAYER Oven Roasted Chicken Breast Cuts
1/2 cup KRAFT Creamy Poppyseed Dressing
1/4 cup PLANTERS Cashews

COMBINE all ingredients except dressing and cashews in large bowl.

ADD dressing; toss to coat.

SPRINKLE with cashews just before serving.

Kraft Kitchens Tips
Special ExtraThis main-dish salad provides 1-1/2 cups of the recommended 2-1/2 cups of vegetables per day.SubstitutePrepare as directed, substituting 1 cup chopped cooked chicken for the packaged chicken breast cuts.SubstitutePrepare as directed, substituting PLANTERS Sliced Almonds or PLANTERS COCKTAIL Peanuts for the cashews.

Chocolate Sings

"CHOCOLATE SINGS...."

One day I had a date for lunch with friends.
Mae, a little old "blue hair" about 80 years old,
came along with them---all in all, a pleasant bunch.

When the menus were presented, we ordered salads, sandwiches, and soups,
except for Mae who said, "Ice Cream, please. Two scoops, chocolate."

I wasn't sure my ears heard right, and the others were aghast.

"Along with heated apple pie," Mae added, completely unabashed.

We tried to act quite nonchalant, as if people did this all the time.

But when our orders were brought out, I didn't enjoy mine.

I couldn't take my eyes off Mae as her pie a-la-mode went down.

The other ladies showed dismay. They ate their lunches silently and frowned.


The next time I went out to eat, I called and invited Mae.
I lunched on white meat tuna. She ordered a parfait.
I smiled. She asked if she amused me.
I answered, "Yes, you do, but also you confuse me.
How come you order rich desserts, while I feel I must be sensible?
She laughed and said, with wanton mirth, "I'm tasting all that is
Possible.

I try to eat the food I need, and do the things I should.

But life's so short, my friend, I hate missing out on something good.

This year I realized how old I was. (She grinned)
I haven't been this old before."

"So, before I die, I've got to try those things that for years I had
ignored.

I haven't smelled all the flowers yet. There are too many books I
haven't read. There's more fudge sundaes to wolf down and kites to be flown
overhead.

There are many malls I haven't shopped. I've not laughed at all the
jokes.

I've missed a lot of Broadway hits and potato chips and cokes.

I want to wade again in water and feel ocean spray on my face.

I want to sit in a country church once more and thank God for His grace.

I want peanut butter every day spread on my morning toast.

I want un-timed long distance calls to the folks I love the most.

I haven't cried at all the movies yet, or walked in the morning rain.

I need to feel wind in my hair. I want to fall in love again.

So, if I choose to have dessert, instead of having dinner,
then should I die before night fall, I'd say I died a winner,
because I missed out on nothing. I filled my heart's desire.
I had that final chocolate mousse before my life expired."

With that, I called the waitress over.. "I've changed my mind, "
I said. "I want what she is having, only add some more whipped cream!"

This is my gift to you - We need an annual Friends Day!
If you get this twice, then you have more than one friend.

Live well, love much & laugh often - Be happy.

SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS, IF YOU WANT TO, including me,
if I'm lucky enough to be counted among them.

Be mindful that happiness isn't based on possessions, power, or prestige,
but on relationships with people we love and respect.

Remember that while money talks, CHOCOLATE SINGS!

Layered Summer Salad

Layered Summer Salad

Prep Time:
30 minTotal Time:
5 hr 30 minMakes:
12 servings,
1 cup each

4 cups torn spinach
1-1/2 cups KRAFT Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese, divided
2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
1 small red onion, sliced, separated into rings
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen green peas, thawed, drained
1/2 cup KRAFT Mayonnaise
1/2 cup BREAKSTONE'S or KNUDSEN Sour Cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
4 slices OSCAR MAYER Bacon, crisply cooked, drained and crumbled

LAYER spinach, 1 cup of the cheese, the mushrooms, onions, tomatoes and peas in 3-qt. serving bowl.

MIX mayo, sour cream and basil. Spread over salad, completely covering top of salad. Cover. Refrigerate at least 5 hours.

SPRINKLE with remaining 1/2 cup cheese and the bacon just before serving.
Kraft Kitchens TipsSubstitutePrepare as directed, using KRAFT 2% Milk Shredded Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese, KRAFT Light Mayonnaise and BREAKSTONE'S Reduced Fat or KNUDSEN Light Sour Cream.

Quote For The Day

Dreaming permits each and every one of us to be quietly and safely insane every night of our lives.
William Dement,

Fresh Blueberries for Luscious Salads

Fresh Blueberries for Luscious Salads





Try these ideas for making quick, delicious salads that are enjoyable any time:



* Toss blueberries, chopped pineapple, jalapeno pepper and cilantro with lime juice and serve beside grilled chicken breasts.



* Stir blueberries into your favorite tuna salad and scoop onto baby spinach.



* Whirl vinaigrette salad dressing and blueberries in the blender until smooth and toss with green salads.



Blueberries are not only convenient, they also provide nutrients our bodies need every day. You can find more blueberry recipes and information at www.blueberrycouncil.org.



“Blueberry-Mango Colada Salad” is cool and fresh, boasting bright colors and sweet fruit flavors. With just three ingredients, this delicious salad is a snap to make. Spoon it into stemmed glasses and enjoy as a light fruit dessert. Another option is to serve with meat sizzling from the grill or with simple chicken sandwiches.



Blueberry-Mango Colada Salad



2 cups fresh blueberries

2 mangos, peeled, seeded and chopped (about 1-3/4 cups)

1/4 cup frozen pina colada mix, thawed



In a large bowl, toss blueberries, mangos and pina colada mix. Into four martini glasses or dessert dishes, spoon fruit mixture, dividing evenly. Garnish with blueberries, mango slices and thin lime slices threaded onto long toothpicks, if desired.



YIELD: 4 portions



Courtesy of ARAcontent

Make Mushrooms Your Pick of the Season

Make Mushrooms Your Pick of the Season


– Long overlooked, mushrooms are nature’s hidden treasure for helping those focusing on living a healthful life. To promote the nutritional benefits of fresh produce this back-to-school season, Weight Watchers continues Pick of the Season, a public health initiative spotlighting seasonal fruit and vegetables, with recipes this quarter for mushrooms, a produce selection so versatile it can add flare to any every day meal.



Did you know? Mushrooms are the only fresh fruit or vegetable that has four percent of the Daily Value of vitamin D (per serving of 4-5 white button mushrooms specifically).



Mushrooms are also nutrient rich, providing a similar number of nutrients as many brightly colored fruits and vegetables. For instance, mushrooms provide the B vitamins riboflavin, niacin and pantothenic acid. White, Portabella and crimini mushrooms have natural antioxidants and in fact, are the leading source of the antioxidant selenium in the fruit and vegetable category. Mushrooms are also fat-free, cholesterol-free and very low in sodium.



In addition, mushrooms have umami. Also known as the “fifth taste,” umami foods are described as hearty or savory. The high water content and very low energy (calorie) density of mushrooms help to satisfy hunger.



In the kitchen, nothing beats the versatility of mushrooms; they work in everything from soups and salads to main dishes and appetizers and are easy to prepare. Simply sauté and in fewer than 10 minutes you can add flavor and texture to any favorite family meal. Just toss in a handful of mushrooms to enjoy a boost of delicious flavor and nutrition.



Below are four recipes that highlight the savory taste of mushrooms: Mini Mushroom Burgers; Tilapia with Mushrooms, Olives and Tomatoes; Turkey Mushroom Soup; and Mushroom Chicken Piccata.



Pick of the Season – Mushroom Recipes:



* Mini Mushroom Burgers

Makes 4 servings



Ingredients

2 Portabella mushrooms, stem removed

1/4 cup light balsamic vinaigrette

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

8 small high-fiber whole grain dinner rolls

8 slices red onion

8 slices tomato



Preparation

1. Place Portabellas and vinaigrette in a large zip top bag. Zip and lightly rub the vinaigrette into the mushrooms. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.



2. Remove mushrooms from bag, drain and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Place the mushrooms on the grill gill side down and cook for 4 minutes. Turn and continue to grill until mushroom is almost cooked through, about 4 more minutes.



3. Remove from pan and drain mushrooms on paper towel, gill side down. Cut each mushroom into quarters and place on buns. Top with onion and tomato and serve.



POINTS value per serving: 2, 144 calories, 5g fat, 5g fiber



* Tilapia with Mushrooms, Olives and Tomatoes

Makes 4 servings



Ingredients

4 teaspoons olive oil, divided

1 tablespoon finely minced garlic (about 3 cloves)

1 pound (16 ounces) button mushrooms, quartered

1/4 cup pitted green olives with juice, halved

2 cups halved grape tomatoes

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, removed from stem and chopped

1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped

4 skinless tilapia filets

Salt and freshly ground black pepper



Preparation

1. Heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and a single layer of mushrooms and cook, without stirring, for about 5 minutes or until mushrooms become red-brown on one side. Flip and cook about 5 minutes more, until other side is same color. Add olives, tomatoes and herbs and heat for another 2 minutes, until juice is evaporated. Remove from heat, place in a bowl and cover with foil to keep warm.



2. In the same sauté pan, heat remaining 2 teaspoons olive oil over medium heat. Season the filets with salt and pepper on both sides and place in the pan. Cook for 3 minutes until nicely browned, gently turn and cook another 3 minutes. Return vegetables and herbs to skillet briefly to warm, then serve.



POINTS value per serving: 4, 196 calories, 7.5g fat, 2g fiber



* Turkey Mushroom Soup

Makes 8 servings



Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

8 ounces white button mushrooms, quartered

1 cup chopped onion (about 1 large onion)

1 tablespoon finely minced garlic (about 3 cloves)

1/4 cup chopped celery (about 3 stalks)

8 cups low-sodium turkey stock (or store bought chicken broth)

2 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped

8 ounces (about 2 cups) cooked turkey (or chicken), removed from the bone and shredded

1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

2 cups packed fresh baby spinach (a large handful)

1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper



Preparation

1. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a single layer of mushrooms and cook, without stirring, for about 5 minutes or until mushrooms become red-brown on one side. Add onions, garlic and celery and sauté until translucent, about 5 more minutes. Add turkey stock (see recipe below) or chicken broth, turkey and sage. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 20 minutes.



2. Add rinsed beans, spinach, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil to wilt spinach and serve hot.



3. To make turkey stock: Place turkey bones in a large stock pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 quartered onion, 2 coarsely chopped stalks of celery, 1 coarsely chopped carrot, 1 bay leaf and 2 sage leaves. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a low simmer and cook 2 or more hours. Strain and skim fat from top and store stock for future use.



POINTS value per serving: 2, 120 calories, 3g fat, 3g fiber



* Mushroom Chicken Piccata

Makes 4 servings



Ingredients

4 chicken cutlets (4 oz each)

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

4 teaspoons olive oil, divided

12 ounces crimini mushrooms, quartered

1/2 cup dry white wine

1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 lemon

2 tablespoons capers, with juice

2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic



Preparation

1. Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides and heat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons olive oil and warm briefly, then add chicken and cook until nicely browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove to a plate and cover.



2. In the same pan, warm the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add a single layer of mushrooms and cook, without stirring, for about 5 minutes or until mushrooms become red-brown on one side. Flip mushrooms, add garlic and cook another 2 minutes. Add wine and scrape up any browned bits in the pan. Bring to a boil and add stock, then return heat until it is bubbling nicely. Slice 4 very thin slices of lemon and add to the pan along with the juice from half of the lemon. Add capers and continue cooking sauce till it becomes a glaze, about 2 more minutes. Add the chicken to the sauce and heat through, then serve.



POINTS value per serving: 4, 199 calories, 6g fat, 2g fiber



These recipes reflect the food values inherent to the Weight Watchers philosophy that eating should be satisfying as well as healthy. In fact, learning and sharing innovative ideas about healthy cooking and eating are part of the experience at weekly Weight Watchers meetings, where members help and support each other.



To learn more about Weight Watchers, visit www.weightwatchers.com. To find the nearest Weight Watchers meeting location, call (800) 651-6000, or click on the Find a Meeting link at the top of the homepage.



For more information about mushrooms, visit the Mushroom Council at mushroominfo.com.



All recipes courtesy of the Mushroom Council and mushroominfo.com.



Courtesy of ARAcontent

Clean Quotes

Do you know what you call those who use towels and never wash them, eat meals and never do the dishes, sit in rooms they never clean, and are entertained till they drop? If you have just answered, "A house guest," you're wrong because I have just described my kids.”
Erma Bombeck

Clean Quotes

“I believe you should live each day as if it is your last, which is why I don't have any clean laundry, because, come on, who wants to wash clothes on the last day of their life?”

Mom's Potato Salad

MOM'S POTATO SALAD

3 lbs. potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 eggs
1/4 c. sweet pickle relish
1 T. chopped olives
1/2 med. onion, chopped fine

Dressing:
1-1/2 c. mayonnaise
1 T. prepared mustard
2 T. sugar
2 tsp. cider vinegar
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. olive juice (from the olive jar)

Place potatoes and eggs (in shell) in a large pot of cold water. Salt generously. Bring to a boil, lower heat slightly, and simmer until potatoes test fork tender (15 min. or so). Remove from heat and drain in a colander. Remove eggs and place in cold water. Return potatoes to pot.

Add the pickle relish, olives, and onion. Peel and chop the eggs; add to potato mixture.

Whisk together dressing ingredients. Add 1 c. to potato mixture; toss gently. Taste, and add more dressing if desired. Can be served warm or cold. Room temperature is my favorite.

Use any leftover dressing for deviled eggs

Favorite Quotes

Every generation laughs at the old fashions,
but religiously follows the new.
Henry David Thoreau

Cooking Quotes,

Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all.
Harriet Van Horne

Caramel Pecan Pumpkin Pie

Caramel Pecan Pumpkin Pie

1 single crust pie shell
2 slightly beaten eggs
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin
1/4 cup half-and-half or milk
3/4 cup sugar
1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
Topping:
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
2 Tablespoons butter, room temperature

Prepare pastry and line pie plate. Preheat oven to 375
degrees F. In a large bowl, stir together eggs, pumpkin
and half-and-half or milk. Stir in sugar, flour, lemon
peel, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice.
Pour mixture into pastry-lined pie plate. To prevent
overbrowning, cover edge of pie with foil. Bake for 25
minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, stir together
brown sugar, pecans and butter until combined. After
25 minutes, remove foil. Sprinkle brown sugar mixture
over top of pie. Bake for 20 minutes more or until a
knife inserted near the center comes out clean and
topping is golden and bubbly. Cool on a wire rack.
Cover and refrigerate within 2 hours. Makes about 8
servings.

Cooking Quotes

Savory seasonings stimulate the appetite.
Latin Proverb

Cooking Quotes

Hunger is the best sauce in the world.
Cervantes

Lazy Man's Pie (Key Lime)

Lazy Man's Pie (Key Lime)

1 regular size tub cool whip
1 6oz. can frozen limeaid
1tsp. vanilla extract
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 graham cracker pie shell

mix all ingredients in a bowl, pour into shell, refrigerate over night. Garnish with limes sliced it you wish.

Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy

Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy
List of Ingredients
1 c. sugar
1 c. corn syrup
1 1/2 c. peanut butter
5 c. cornflakes

RecipeBring sugar and corn syrup to a boil. Remove from heat immediately and stir in peanut butter. Stir until peanut butter has melted. Add cornflakes and stir. Mixture will be stiff. Drop on waxed paper to cool.

How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies in Your Kitchen the Frugal Way

Get Rid of Fruit Flies in Your Kitchen the Frugal Way

By Bailey Landon,
Those pesky little fruit flies arrive in your home, unnoticed as they grab a free ride in on the bananas or other fresh fruit. Within a couple of days, a couple have multiplied into a tiny swarm. Soon you have your own village of fruit flies. But how do you get rid of them without spending a load of money on pesticides that will only smell up your house?

Some homeowners pour vinegar or bleach down their kitchen sink drains. Unfortunately this tactic doesn't get rid of the fruit flies. It might drown a few, bleach a few, or make a few smell like a pickled fruit fly. Otherwise, the fruit flies are still in your home.

There is an easy and very inexpensive way to rid of your home of fruit flies. Simply build a fruit fly trap and trap the fruit flies in the traps. All you need to build a fruit fly trap is a banana or two, a knife, some cling wrap or similar plastic wrap, a few rubber bands, and old plastic jars or bowls that can be thrown away after use. Using an empty mayonnaise jar, plastic butter bowl, or plastic lunch meat container will work. Don't use any container that you want to keep. Be sure the container is deep enough to hold a few slices of banana.

After you have your necessary supplies together, simply slice up the bananas and divide the slices into several containers. Place the cling wrap or other plastic wrapping tightly over the opening of the jar or bowl, and place a rubber band around it to hold it snuggly in place. Using the knife's point, poke a few tiny holes into the plastic wrap. Make them very tiny. The fruit flies can get in, but once in, they can't get out. You now have fruit fly traps that will trap the fruit flies and remove them from your home.

The more fruit flies you have, the more fruit fly trap containers you might wish to make. If the fruit flies have journeyed to other parts of the house, you will want to place a container in each room they are in. Don't remove the plastic covering from the trapping containers! Allow the fruit fly traps to sit for about three days or so, then simply toss the trapping containers into the trash. Remove the trash the same day.

Chuck Wagon Casserole

Chuck Wagon Casserole

1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 lb lean ground beef
1 can (15 1/2 oz) mild chili beans in sauce
3/4 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 tsp salt
1 pkg (8 1/2 oz) corn muffin mix
1 can (11 oz) Mexican style corn, drained
Preheat oven to 400.
In skillet cook and stir ground beef, onion and bell pepper over medium heat 8 - 10 min or until beef is no longer pink, drain. Stir in chili beans, barbecue sauce and salt. Bring to a boil, spoon into 8 or 9" baking dish. In bowl, prepare corn muffin mix according to package directions, stir in corn. Spoon over meat mixture. Bake 30 min or until golden brown.

Leni - Mother to Anthony & Liliana, Wife to David

Celebrate July 4th with Blueberry Cupcakes

Celebrate July 4th with Blueberry Cupcakes

Top off your Independence Day celebration this year with Wave the Flag Cupcakes for everyone.

These cupcakes look adorable and will be a hit with your family and guests. With their patriotic colors, they’re perfect for a Fourth of July picnic, or anytime you feel like “waving the flag.” The secret in these sweet delights is that there are more blueberries baked inside -- and thanks to a quick trick or two, they’re lower in fat and calories than cupcakes made the traditional way.

Need another reason to celebrate? July is National Blueberry Month! Blueberries are most abundant and least expensive in mid-summer, making it an ideal time to get your fill of these little blue gems. Stock the fridge and freezer with blueberries to make meals, snacks and desserts that are easy on the cook. Blueberries never need to be peeled, pitted, stemmed or chopped -- just a quick rinse and they’re ready to eat or add to recipes.

Try these ideas for making quick, delicious desserts and snacks that are enjoyable any time:

* Layer fresh blueberries with yogurt and crushed cereal in tall glasses for tasty breakfast parfaits.
* Toss fresh blueberries, chopped pineapple, melon and mint in a bowl; drizzle with thawed apple juice concentrate to serve as a fruit salad or a light dessert.
* Whirl frozen blueberries, cranberry juice, yogurt and ice cubes in a blender; pour into cold glasses and serve for breakfast or snack.

Recipe for “Wave the Flag” Cupcakes

Ingredients:
1 package (18- to 19-ounces) yellow cake mix
1/3 cup applesauce
3 egg whites
3 cups fresh blueberries, divided
1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 red fruit-roll snack (from a 4.5 ounce box)

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, beat cake mix with applesauce, egg whites and 1 1/4 cups water for 30 seconds on low speed, then 2 minutes on medium speed. Spoon batter into 24 (2 ½-inch) aluminum or paper lined muffin cups. Evenly divide 1 cup of blueberries onto tops of batter; do not stir. Bake cupcakes following package directions; remove to a wire rack and cool completely. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spoon onto cooled cupcakes; spread to the edges. Unroll fruit snack and, with a sharp knife, cut into strips 1/8-inch wide by 2-inches long. On half of each cupcake, arrange strips, trimming each to fit. Arrange remaining 2 cups blueberries on the frosting on other halves of the cupcakes, about 10 blueberries per cupcake.

Makes 24 cupcakes

Per cupcake, including frosting and toppings: 135 calories; 3 g protein; 24 g carbohydrate; 3 g total fat (1.8 g saturated fat).

Blueberries are not only convenient, they provide nutrients our bodies need every day. You can find more blueberry recipes and information at

Chicken Quesedilas

I usually have boneless skinless chicken breasts and / or tenderloins in the freezer, and quesedilas are my "go to" meal for something easy!

You can put anything you want in them, this is my "kicked up" version, you could add any veggies you want, and take out those that you don't. I like to add chopped spinach when I have it. Chop the chicken into bite size pieces.
Chop 1 medium white or yellow onion
Chop 1 red pepper, 1 yellow pepper, and 1 green pepper
Drizzle a large skillet with some olive oil, and add a pad of margarine or butter
Add the chicken, onion, and peppers(Add sliced jalepenos if you like them...I serve them as a garnish, because I don't like them, but Bryan does)
Sprinkle with some taco seasoning, and/or, 1/2 t cumin, 1 T chili powder, seasoned salt, and garlic pepperAdd 1 small can of green chiles (can be mild or hot)
When chicken is done and veggies are soft, remove from heat
Put a flour tortilla on the George Foreman Grill
Spread chicken mixture over tortilla
Top with a handful of shredded cheese
Add another tortilla

Close lid, and cook 2 or 3 minutes

Serve with Spanish Rice, Refried Beans topped with shredded monterrey jack cheese, chips, salsa and garnishes. (Same garnishes as tacos: chopped tomatoes, black olives, sour cream, etc.).

Hosting the Perfect Summer-savvy Picnic

Hosting the Perfect Summer-savvy Picnic

– Summer is the perfect time to bring together family and friends to enjoy the outdoors. Dust off the grill, lay out a fresh blanket and enjoy delicious food while soaking up the sun with the ones you love.

That’s the advice of cleaning expert, author and television personality, Laura Dellutri, the “Healthy Housekeeper,” who outlines four simple steps to help you plan the perfect summer-savvy picnic. Armed with tried-and-true secrets she learned as a hostess and mother of five, Dellutri offers these tips:

Planning Ahead
The first step to a great summer picnic is the food selection. Picnic food is some of the most delicious yet simple food around thanks to the abundance of seasonal produce. Plan the menu before making a trip to the grocery store. One of Dellutri’s favorite menus is grilled chicken and ribs smothered in a sweet barbecue sauce with fresh corn and tomatoes. Choose cool treats that don’t melt in the sun, such as fresh watermelon. Finally, purchase paper plates, cups, utensils and large trash bags for an easy clean-up.

Activities for All
Once you have your menu planned, be sure there are activities for guests of all ages. If young children are invited, purchase easy and inexpensive toys such as bubbles, a hula-hoop or sidewalk chalk for hours of fun. If your party is mostly adults, Frisbees, horseshoes or a vintage game like bocce are great activities to keep guests entertained while food is on the grill.

Dress Appropriately
Before the party, make sure guests know how to dress for the location you choose. If your party is near a pool, let guests know that they are welcome to bring their swimsuits. For guests who forget their towels, be sure to have extras on hand. If your picnic is at a park or on the lawn, bring large sheets or blankets so guests can avoid grass stains while sitting.

Remember the Fun, Not the Mess
With disposable plates and cutlery, clean-up time should be minimal. However, greasy foods like barbeque, hamburgers and hot dogs often end up on guests’ clothing or even picnic sheets and table cloths. For the spills and splashes that might occur, Dellutri recommends using Tide with Dawn StainScrubbers, a new detergent that helps remove tough stains -- including greasy food stains -- better than the next leading competitive detergent plus pre-treater combined.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Crafty Ways to Keep the Kids Busy This Summer

Crafty Ways to Keep the Kids Busy This Summer


– While all children eagerly anticipate the lazy days of summer, most parents know that early anticipation can quickly turn into the dreaded “there’s nothing to do” attitude. While keeping boredom at bay for up to three months can be a challenge, a little advance planning and a handy list of projects and activities can inspire a summer that’s educational and entertaining.

Keeping kids busy not only makes the summer special, it makes educational sense. Activities encourage imagination and exploration, while keeping kids’ brains working and ready to learn during the next school year.

The experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores offer the following ideas for activities and crafts to keep kids of all ages busy over the summer:

Activities
* Start a family garden. Let young children make holes for seeds—or plants for more immediate results--and pull weeds. Older kids can plant, prune and harvest. Holey Soles shoes are perfect for gardening. Kids can personalize them with paint, and mud and dirt rinse off with a garden hose.

* Have a picnic at the local park or pool. Kids can help prepare the food, pack the basket and can even make and decorate placemats to bring along.

* Plan a show or play. Consider a puppet show. Choose a favorite story, or help kids write one of their own. Follow the simple directions for Fun Stick Puppets from Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores to make foam puppet characters, and then invite neighbors and friends to the show.

Crafts
* String beads to form necklaces and bracelets. Add wooden hearts personalized and painted, or found objects like small shells, sea glass or stones. Homemade jewelry is a favorite gift of grandmothers, babysitters and teachers.

* Create a scrapbook to highlight the school year or a summer family vacation. Glue in mementos such as tickets, trinkets and photos.

* Use colored chalk to create art on sidewalks and driveways, the rain will do the clean up for you. Very small children will enjoy “painting” the driveway with water. This is a long-term project because the water keeps drying.

* Make bookmarks for library books.

* Create and decorate stepping stones for the yard and garden.

* Embellish tank tops, t-shirts and flip flops in summer colors and designs.

* Make your own games, like a glow-in-the-dark toss for hours of evening enjoyment.

* Plan for the inevitable end of summer by picking up a canvas messenger bag. Kids of all ages will enjoy personalizing their bags with iron-on appliqués, studs, and jewels, and they’ll proudly use them throughout the school year.

For more instructions and to spark ideas for kids of all ages, visit http://www.joann.com/.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Farmers Market Freshness All Year Long

Farmer's Market Freshness All Year Long
Summer brings a welcome change in temperature, extra hours of sunshine and the fresh fruits and vegetables from the farmer’s market we’ve been craving all year.

Before heading out to your local farmer’s market, consider the following tips from the Reynolds Kitchens to help you pick the best produce and keep it tasting just-picked fresh all year.

Explore your options
Don’t purchase everything from the first stand you visit, as the variety and quality of produce will likely differ from stand to stand. Take a lap around the entire market for a better idea of where the freshest produce is and you’ll walk away more satisfied with your purchases. It’s not uncommon to get all of your produce from different vendors.

What to look for
Look for produce that is free from unusual odors or colors and signs of spoilage such as mold and bruising. Remember that sometimes buying under ripe produce is a good option. Peaches, cantaloupe and nectarines are examples of fruits that will continue to ripen at room temperature after they are picked. Also, don’t be shy about talking with the vendors. They know which products are the freshest and most delicious.

If you like it, buy it
If you come across the sweetest strawberries or the most succulent squash at the market, don’t be afraid to buy in bulk. Most of the food you’ll find at the farmer’s market will last for months if frozen. Storing foods using the Reynolds Handi-Vac Vacuum Sealing System virtually eliminates freezer burn and will help protect your produce.

Buy realistically
Certain foods fare poorly in the freezer no matter how well they’re packaged. Tomatoes, celery and potatoes lose their crispness and get watery. Avocados are only recommended to be frozen when mashed (not whole or sliced).

Many people avoid buying fresh fruits and vegetables - healthy meal staples - out of the fear that a large portion will go to waste. This summer, take advantage of fresh produce at the markets and simply vacuum freeze whatever won’t be used in a week. Doing so will save you money and ensure that your favorite summer fruits and vegetables are always available.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Get Inspired by Bold and Natural Flavors

Get Inspired by Bold and Natural Flavors

(ARA) - Peruse the dishes featured in America’s top restaurants and epicurean magazines and it’s easy to see that culinary trends this year are focusing on refreshingly bold flavors and natural ways to sweeten dishes. This movement has motivated home chefs to experiment in the kitchen with innovative ways to enhance the flavor and nutrition of their favorite recipes.

Recently, the Florida Department of Citrus called upon amateur chefs to put their culinary creativity to the test in the “Back to the Grove” recipe contest for a chance to win a grand prize trip to the Sunshine State. Citrus enthusiasts from across the country submitted original recipes containing at least one 8-ounce serving of 100 percent Florida orange juice, which contributes almost 25 percent of the UDSA daily recommended amount of fruit and vegetables when consumed in a single serving. The bold and sweet taste of Florida orange juice makes it an ideal ingredient to perk up everyday recipes by providing a splash of flavor to dishes from breakfast to dessert.

Contest winner Kelly Boe was inspired by the zesty flavor of citrus and Florida-style cuisine. Her Orange Couscous with Cinnamon Vinaigrette earned top honors from a panel of expert judges at the highly acclaimed Johnson and Wales College of Culinary Arts for taking a fresh approach to the common side dish.

Those looking to bring sunshine into their kitchen can easily recreate Boe's contest-winning recipe:

Orange Couscous with Cinnamon Vinaigrette
Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:
1 cup 100 percent Florida orange juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup couscous
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/3 cup golden raisins
1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
1/2 cup chopped green onion

Directions:
In a saucepan, bring orange juice and salt to a boil. Add couscous; stir. Remove saucepan from heat and cover; let stand 5 minutes. Remove lid and fluff with a fork. Place couscous in medium mixing bowl and set aside.

Meanwhile, in small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar and cinnamon until emulsified. Set aside.

Add golden raisins, macadamia nuts and green onion to couscous. Pour vinaigrette over couscous mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until combined. Serve at room temperature.

To view more Florida-inspired recipes and get tips for cooking with orange juice, visit www.FloridaJuice.com/BackToTheGrove.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Dance While You Still Can

First I was dying to finish high school and start college.
And then I was dying to finish college and start working.
And then Iwas dying to marry and have children.
And then I ws dying for my children to grow old enough so I could get back to my career.
And then I was drying to retire.
And now I am dying........... and suddenly realize that I forgot to live.

Dance While You Can

I will quite my soul.......
slience the noise in my head and heart
and ask myself
what I really want out of life.

To Dance

I WILL TAKE RESPONSIBILITY
for my reactions to people
and stop blaming others for how I am feeling.

I WILL KEEP SILENT
when the opportunity comes
to talk behind someone else's back..

While I Still Can Dance

I will hold my loved ones right
and hope to never let them go.
How could I dance without them?

Dance While You Can

I will make a commitment to fulfilling my dreams.....
no matter what i may be feeling.......
and I will dare to move forward
in the face of life's challenges

I will belive that what God
has placed inside me
is superior to the mountians
that stand in my way.

Grandparents Parenting the Second Time Around

Grandparents Parenting the Second Time Around

Grandparents have raised their own children, worked hard throughout their lives, survived many hardships and have more than earned the right to relax in a golden glow of retirement. However there is an increasing trend of grandparents becoming parents again, raising their children's children, or in some cases, even their great-grandchildren. In fact, there are currently 4.5 million children being raised by grandparents in the United States alone, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. That is more children being raised by grandparents than there are children in the entire foster care system.

Whether due to financial problems, lack of stability, non-interest, or other problems on behalf of the parents, many grandparents find themselves in the unique position of raising small children in the golden years of their lives. This can prove to bring its own set of unique challenges and rewards, some more unexpected than others.

Some grandparents may feel embarrassed or hesitant to seek custody of their grandchildren in court, not wanting to go up against their own children legally. It is never an easy situation, and even though the parents of the child are seldom around, the grandparents may not wish to cause further trouble in an already troubled situation. For this reason, some grandparents may even be raising their grandchildren without full or even temporary custody rights.

Many times, this situation is unexpected and unplanned, leading to financial difficulties as well as frustration and anxiety. Many second-time parents are on a limited income or social security, which makes the situation more difficult, as there is also a tendency to want to overspend on your grandchildren. Be sure that you have a proper budget planned out and that you don't overspend in unnecessary areas such as toys, games and activities.

Another important part of being a second-time parent is to make certain that you have a solid support system behind you. In many towns, there are special support group meetings especially for your situation. There are also many different resources available on the internet. A few of these are:
http://www.raisingyourgrandchildren.com/
http://www.faithfulgrannies.com//
http://www.grandparentinggreat.com/
http://www.wahmchoices.com/

On the surface, being a grandparent raising a grandchild isn't very much different from being a parent the first time. As with your own children, being a parent the second time requires love and caring, a firm attitude and nearly endless patience. However, raising children for the second (or third) time can also be one of the most rewarding experiences in your life.

A firm hand and discipline are also a necessity when it comes to raising grandchildren. Too many grandparents are more lenient on their grandchildren, either because the feel badly about the situation that the grandchild is in, or because they wish to correct mistakes they made with their own children. It is important to remember that all children need guidance and discipline, and that if you approach it from the standpoint of providing the best care possible, which includes being firm yet loving, you will be not only making the child's life better but your own life easier.
It is also important to take some time to relax and enjoy the time you have with your grandchildren. Especially since most grandparents do not have a full-time job as they had with their own children, you now have plenty of time to have fun with and spend time with, your grandchildren. You are now free to enjoy spending time with them, listening to them, and helping them with homework, problem-solving, reading, or other activities.

But it is also important to realize that even grandparents need a break at times. Be sure to take time for yourself each day, away from the child/children, even if it is just a warm bath at the end of the day, or a book before bed. Make sure you have time to relax and unwind from the stresses of the day, and you may even need a few days vacation every now and then. If possible, see if there is someone trustworthy and reliable you can leave the grandchildren with for a day or two every once in a while for you to be able to re-energize and relax.If you take things in stride, and have fun spending time with and caring for your grandchildren, you will find that being a second-time parent can be immensely enjoyable, and not just a stressful situation.

Article Source: http://www.faithfulgrannies.com

THE CLOTHES LINE -- Remember when.....

THE CLOTHES LINE - BASIC RULES Remember when???

1. You had to wash the clothes line before hanging my clothes.
Walk the length of each line with a damp cloth around the line to clean it off..

2. You had to hang the clothes in a certain order and always hang whites with whites and hang them first.

3. You never hung a shirt by the shoulders, always by the tail.
What would the neighbors think?

4. Wash day on a Monday........never hang clothes on the weekend or Sunday for heaven's sake!

5. Hang the sheets and towels on the outside lines so you could hide your 'unmentionables' in the middle.

6. It didn't matter if it was sub-zero weather.............clothes would 'freeze dry.'

7. Always gather the clothes pins when taking down dry clothes.
Pins left on the line were 'tacky'.

8. If you were efficient, you would line the clothes up so that each item did not need two clothes pins, but shared one of the clothes pins with the next washed item.

9. Clothes off of the line before dinner time, neatly folded in the clothes basket and ready to be ironed.

10. IRONED?????????? Well, that's a whole other subject.


A POEM

A clothes line was a news forecast
To neighbors passing by.
There were no secrets you could keep
When clothes were hung to dry.

It also was a friendly link
For neighbors always knew
If company had stopped on by
To spend a night or two.

For then you'd see the 'fancy sheets'
And towels upon the line;
You'd see the 'company table cloths'
With intricate design.

The line announced a baby's birth
To folks who lived inside
As brand new infant clothes were hung
So carefully with pride.

The ages of the children could
So readily be known
By watching how the sizes changed
You'd know how much they'd grown.

It also told when illness struck,
As extra sheets were hung;
Then nightclothes, and a bathrobe, too,
Haphazardly were strung.

It said, 'Gone on vacation now'
When lines hung limp and bare.
It told, 'We're back!' when full lines sagged
With not an inch to spare.

New folks in town were scorned upon
If wash was dingy gray,
As neighbors carefully raised their brows,
And looked the other way..

But clotheslines now are of the past
For dryers make work less.
Now what goes on inside a home
Is anybody's guess.

I really miss that way of life.
It was a friendly sign
When neighbors knew each other best
By what hung on the line!

Marcia Chumbley

A native of the Midwest farm country in Iowa, Marcia Chumbley has lived in a number of locations. She has resided in Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis, Minnesota., Living in rural and metropolitan areas taught Marcia to always look for the best opportunities each community could offer. She now lives in a rural area of Minnesota that has a small city flare and closeness to the land. Marcia’s work experiences outside the home include over 30 years in the medical and insurance field in manager, investigator and administrative roles. She has also worked as a contract administrator for a world wide security company. Marcia has work in the corporate world outside of her home and has various home based businesses over the years. She holds a degree in business management and is CMOM certified. Marcia is the founder and publisher of " Christian Work From Moms and Grandparents" web site, Faithful Grannies.com "Work At Home Divas Online for Boomers, Crafters and Stay At Home Moms, www.workathomedivasonline.com and Work At Home Moms Choices www.wahmchoices.com Marcia Chumbley: Specializing in Cooking Recipes http://grannieskitchen.blogspot.com/ She is a well known published and
featured author through out the internet and public speaker on domestic violence and a breast cancer surivor. She was choosen as a WAHM and SAHM of the 1st quarter of 2009 by Stay At Home Moms Online. http://stayathomemomsonline.com/momofmonth.html

Christian Topic Of The Day,

Topic for Today: Assurance

Whom God legally saves, He experimentally saves; whom He justifies, them He also sanctifies. Where the righteousness of Christ is imputed to an individual, a principle of holiness is imparted to him; the former can only be ascertained by the latter. It is impossible to obtain a Scriptural knowledge that the merits of Christ's finished work are reckoned to my account, except by proving that the efficacy of the Holy Spirit's work is evident in my soul.
Pink, A. W.

Kid Times Garden

Kid Times Garden

Kid Times Garden

Give your child some space; literally! Kids loving having spaces that are all their own, whether it's their own desk area in the house, or the tent they've created with chairs and blankets in the family room. The same is true for gardening. Dedicate a small plot of the garden just for them. Put a fancy border around it, perhaps purchase one of the stepping stone making kits found at crafts stores in which they can mold their name and make their handprint.

Let them join you at the nursery. Let your kids know you value their opinion. Ask them which kinds of plants, flowers, and vegetables they like. Explain what will work well in your garden and what won't.
Give them (limited) choices. While you're at the nursery, ask them if they'd like pansies or petunias, marigolds or zinnias. This will give them the feeling of power without letting it get out of control.
Remind them money doesn't grow on trees. With older children discuss the budget. Let them help select seeds and blossoming plants at the nursery - and turn it into a math lesson. Let your child do the money calculations; they can tell you when the money runs out.

Let your child do what he will (especially if you have a preschooler). Let him dig, explore, play with bugs. You may be tempted to steer your child in another direction (like actually watering or weeding his garden), but this is a great way for your child to explore this exciting new universe.

Plan, plan, plan. If you have older children, say 8 or 9 or older, let them plot out their own garden on paper. Provide him or her with graph paper, pencils and seed catalogs. Give them a group of flowers and vegetables from which to choose, and then let them draw out their garden.

Get them their own gardening tools. Nothing will motivate your little gardener more than having her own little shovel, her own gardening gloves, and her own watering pail. And don't forget those bright colored rubber boots.
Marcia Chumbley is a work at home mom and grandmother in Minnesota. She is the owner of a Christian Work at home Moms and Grandparents web site at http://www.faithfulgrannies.com/. A place for Christian Work From Home Grandparents. We are the true pioneers bringing generations of Christian Work From Home Moms, Grandmothers, Parents and Families together while providing you with resources, inspiration and affordable advertising to make a positive difference while balancing the work at home experience. We are nurturing the youth who will change the world.



A native of the Midwest farm country in Iowa, Marcia Chumbley has lived in a number of locations. She has resided in Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis, Minnesota., Living in rural and metropolitan areas taught Marcia to always look for the best opportunities each community could offer. She now lives in a rural area of Minnesota that has a small city flare and closeness to the land.
Marcia’s work experiences outside the home include over 30 years in the medical and insurance field in manager, investigator and administrative roles. She has also worked as a contract administrator for a world wide security company. Marcia has work in the corporate world outside of her home and has various home based businesses over the years. She holds a degree in business management and is CMOM certified.
Marcia is the founder and publisher of a Christian Work From Moms and Grandparents web site “Faithful Grannies.com”, Work At Home Divas Online for Boomers, Crafters and Stay At Home Moms, and Work At Home Moms Choices-WAHM Choices.com . She is a well known published and featured author through out the internet.
Marcia’s successful home based businesses now allow her time and freedom to pursue her personal and professional interests. Marcia’s vast knowledge of the cottage industry, internet, and marketing has created success in the business world both on and off the internet.

Quotable Quote

Quotable Quote
Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.
Thomas Edison

Christian Topic Of The Day

Topic for Today: Pride

The more godly a man is, and the more graces and blessings of God are upon him, the more need he hath to pray, because Satan is busiest against him, and because he is readiest to be puffed up with a conceited holiness.
Greenham, Richard

Color Coding and Organization

Color Coding and Organization

As we enter the New Year, our thoughts often turn towards organization of home and office. The key to developing an organized home is to develop a series of systems that work within your home, making it easier to find the things you need. Color coding is one great way to streamline your home and make it easier to access items quickly.

There are many areas of your home that can be color coded. Adding a touch of color can help you organize papers, laundry, clothing, and so much more. Here are a few simple tips to get you started on the right track to organization.

Papers
Paper clutter is one of the worst offenders – it seems to breed when you look away. Mail, bills, letters, and papers to be filed pile up in the office, on the front table, and beside the reading chair. Corral the paper clutter once and for all by developing an organized, color coded filing system.

Pick a basket that will hold file folders, and place it near where you open your mail. Now, add colored folders for each type of mail you receive – To Read, To Pay, To Do, and To File. Keep a small trash can in this area, as well. As you open the mail, place each item in the appropriate folder, or throw it away if its junk. Your mail is organized, ready for the next time you file or pay bills – all you have to do is grab the appropriate folder!

Laundry
Whether you live in a home with children, or an empty nest, laundry is a major obstacle to overcome. Color coded bins can be a huge help, as even the smallest child (or the most housework impaired spouse) can recognize a bin by color.

Pick a color for each member of the family, and place it in the area where they change clothes. On laundry day, have them bring their bins to the laundry room. As clothes are washed, dried, and folded, place them in the bin of the owner, to be returned to their room and put away. This system allows you to sort clothing as you fold, eliminating an extra step in the laundry process.

Clothing
In homes with children or adults of similar sizes, color coding can help keep clothing sorted by owner. Use the same colors that you've put into place for the laundry system, and simply mark a colored dot on the tag of each item of clothing. Use the dots to determine whose pants are whose, saving time and energy tracking down each person individually.

Holiday Decorations
Tired of spending time before each holiday sorting through a sea of poorly labeled boxes? Color coding to the rescue, again! After each holiday this year, take time to purchase brightly colored plastic totes. These totes are often available in seasonal colors – red and green for Christmas, orange for Fall holidays. Store your decorations accordingly, and you'll never again have to sort through the Easter decorations looking for your Christmas angel.

Color coding is a quick and easy way to add organization to your daily life. By making small changes, you can be well on your way to a simpler, less stressful life. Take the time to add some color coded organizational tools to your home today – you'll be amazed at the difference that they make.


A native of the Midwest farm country in Iowa, Marcia Chumbley has lived in a number of locations. She has resided in Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis, Minnesota., Living in rural and metropolitan areas taught Marcia to always look for the best opportunities each community could offer. She now lives in a rural area of Minnesota that has a small city flare and closeness to the land.
Marcia’s work experiences outside the home include over 30 years in the medical and insurance field in manager, investigator and administrative roles. She has also worked as a contract administrator for a world wide security company. Marcia has work in the corporate world outside of her home and has various home based businesses over the years. She holds a degree in business management and is CMOM certified.
Marcia is the founder and publisher of a Christian Work From Moms and Grandparents web site “Faithful Grannies.com”, Work At Home Divas Online for Boomers, Crafters and Stay At Home Moms, and Work At Home Moms Choices-WAHM Choices.com . She is a well known published and featured author through out the internet.
Marcia’s successful home based businesses now allow her time and freedom to pursue her personal and professional interests. Marcia’s vast knowledge of the cottage industry, internet, and marketing has created success in the business world both on and off the internet.

Christian Topic of The Day,

Topic for Today: Knowledge

Modern mankind can go anywhere, do everything and be completely curious about the universe. But only a rare person now and then is curious enough to want to know God.
Tozer, A. W.

Earth Day Go Green Free Web Cast

Check out this Free Web Cast and receive a Free E Book on how to GO GREEN www.gogreenwebcast.com/choices

Christian Topic of The Day,

Topic for Today: Lord's Day,
TheWhat fitter day to ascend to heaven, than that on which He arose from earth, and fully triumphed over death and hell. Use your Sabbaths as steps to glory, till you have passed them all, and are there arrived.
Baxter, Richard

Christian Topic of The Day

Topic for Today: Discipline

God has no pleasure in afflicting us, but He will not keep back even the most painful chastisement if He can but thereby guide His beloved child to come home and abide in the beloved Son.
Murray, Andrew

Christian Topic of The Day,

Topic for Today: Holiness

True holiness does not consist merely of believing and feeling, but of doing and bearing, and a practical exhibition of active and passive grace. Our tongues, our tempers, our natural passions and inclinations - our conduct as parents and children, masters and servants, husbands and wives, rulers , and subjects - our dress, our employment of time, our behavior in business, our demeanor in sickness and health, in riches and poverty - all, all these are matters which are fully treated by inspired writers.
Ryle, J. C.

Tip Of The Day

Sock Hats

Children's mismatched socks make perfect snow hats for your favorite snowman and winter craft projects. Simply cut at the ankle, place the sock cuff on the craft's head, tie the end with yarn or ribbon for a perfect winter hat.

Earth Day Crafts

Tin Can Herb Pots

What you'll need:

Empty aluminum can

Screwdriver and hammer

Liquitex Basics

GessoAcrylic craft paints in colors of your choice

Flower stickers (optional)

Acrylic sealer spray, matte finish

Craft or popsicle stick

Thin cardboard

Pinking shears

Black Sharpie marker

5-10 small rocks, stones or pebbles

1.5 cups Potting soil

4-inch potted herb plant

White craft glueWater

How to make it:
1.Completely wash and dry aluminum can. If necessary, sand off any rough edges from opening of can.

2. Turn can upside down. Parent should use screwdriver or other pointed object to poke holes in the bottom of the can. Use a hammer to tap the end of the screwdriver to make the holes.
3. Paint outside of can with one coat of Gesso. Let dry completely.
Paint can desired color, repeat coats if needed.
4. Decorate however you like. Use a thin paint brush for long lines, dip the end of the paint brush into paint for polka dots.
5. Decorate with stickers if desired.
6. Spray the outside of the completed can with acrylic sealer spray. Let dry.
7. Place enough rocks or pebbles in the bottom of the can to form a single layer.
8. Add enough potting soil to fill the can two-thirds full.
8. Remove potted herb from its container and transplant into the can.
9. Fill edges with remaining potting soil, gently pat down so that plant is firmly in the can but not compacted so much that it’s too tight.
10. Place can on a plate (to catch any water drainage) and add some water to the newly planted herbs.
11. Paint craft stick whatever color you like. Allow to dry.
12. Cut a piece of thin cardboard into a small rectangle (about 1.5 x 3 inches) using pinking shears.
12. Paint both side of the cardboard with Gesso, let dry.
13. Glue the rectangle to the top of the craft stick.
14. Use a black Sharpie marker to write the herb name onto the rectangle.
15. Insert your plant marker into the soil, being careful not to crush any roots along the way.
17. Place your new garden in a sunny window and remember to water them!

Tip Of The Day

No Clog Spray Cans


To keep your spray can adhesives and paints from clogging, when finished using them turn upside down and spray until it won't spray any lo

April Recipies

Spring Recipes

Spring means more fresh fruits and vegetables are available in the market, especially strawberries and asparagus, two foods particularly associated with spring.

Fresh Strawberry FoolSource: Better Homes and Gardens

Ingredients:1/2 cup whipping cream1/3 cup powdered sugar1/2 teaspoon vanilla1 - 8-ounce carton lemon yogurt3 cups sliced fresh strawberries or 2 cups fresh blueberries1/2 cup coarsely crumbled shortbread cookies (5 cookies)
Directions:1. Beat whipping cream, powdered sugar and vanilla in a medium mixing bowl with an electric mixer or rotary beater until soft peaks form. By hand, fold in yogurt and half of the berries. 2. Spoon some of the whipped mixture into the bottom of 10-ounce individual glasses. 3. Top each with some of the remaining berries, the rest of the whipped cream mixture, and then the rest of the berries. If you wish, cover and chill up to 2 hours. Before serving, sprinkle with the crumbled cookies. Makes 4 servings.

Earth Day Crafts

Rainstick

Supplies needed:

A paper towel tube or other long cardboard tube

Aluminum foil

Small dried beans (like lentils), unpopped popcorn, dry rice, or tiny pasta.

Brown paper (from a grocery bag) or construction paper

Glue

Scissors

Crayons or markers

How to make It:

*Trace around the end of your tube onto a piece of brown paper (or construction paper).Draw a bigger circle around that circle and then draw a lot of spokes between the two circles.

*Cut along the spokes.

Put glue on the spokes and glue the cap onto one end of your tube.

Cut a piece of aluminum foil that is about one and half times the length of your tube and about 6 inches wide.

Crunch the aluminum foil into two long, thin, snake-like shapes.

Then twist each one into a spring shape.

*Put the aluminum foil springs into your tube.

Pour some dry beans, dry rice, or unpopped popcorn into your tube. The tube should only be about 1/10 full. You can experiment to see how different amounts and different types of seeds and beans change the sound.

*Make another cap from brown paper (the same as the first three steps) and cap your tube.

Optional: Decorate the tube by covering it with brown paper or construction paper, and then making designs with crayons or markers (or cut-out paper or stickers).Rainforest designs are nice, especially brightly-colored butterflies, frogs, and flowers. Tiny construction paper butterflies (like the one on the right) are nice glued onto the rainstick.

April Recipies

Chicken-Fruit Salad

Source: Better Homes and Gardens

Ingredients:4 ounces dried rotini or radiatore1 medium apple, chopped1-1/2 cups shredded roasted chicken1 cup seedless red grapes, halved1 stalk celery, sliced (1/2 cup)1/4 cup plain fat-free yogurt1/4 cup light mayonnaise dressing or salad dressing3 tablespoons fat-free milk4 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard1 tablespoon snipped fresh marjoram or 3/4 teaspoon dried marjoram, crushed

Directions:

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain again. Combine pasta, chopped apple, chicken, grapes, and celery in a large mixing bowl. For dressing, combine yogurt, mayonnaise, milk, mustard, and marjoram in a small bowl. Drizzle dressing over pasta mixture; toss gently to coat. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate up to 2 hours. Makes 4 servings.

April Fools Day

April Fool's Day is quite an appropriate way to begin National Humor Month. Here is some background information plus a few activities for you to enjoy.

Did you know that April Fool's Day began in France in 1564? Before then, the new year was celebrated on April 1! As some Europeans continued celebrating the new year on that day, they were called April fools and their friends would play silly tricks on them.The harmless pranks of April Fool's Day take place in the US, Germany, France, Great Britain, and other countries. In France, an April fool is a poisson d'Avril, an April fish, and chocolate fish are a special treat. In Scotland, people call you an April cuckoo.

Be sure not to play a joke after 12 noon or you will be the fool!

Tip Of The Day

A corner cut from a used envelope and slipped over the last page you read makes an excellent bookmark.

Things to Pack For a Kid-Friendly Picnic

Things to Pack For a Kid-Friendly Picnic
By Christine Steendahl

Things to Pack For a Kid-Friendly Picnic-----Planning a picnic is an event that the whole family should join in on. Because you want the day to be successful, all ideas are vital. If you have children, don?t forget to pack items for entertainment and in case of emergencies.

Let's start with safety. No matter what the venue for the picnic, kids will be kids and accidents can always be a reality. Take along a first aid kit for any bumps, scrapes, or bug bites. A first aid kit can come in handy for the rest of the group.

If the picnic is late enough that it could run into evening, flashlights are a good idea. They keep older kids from wandering off and can be used by the younger ones to play a variety of games. Some extra illumination will keep you from forgetting any of your stuff when packing up to go home.

If you are near the woods or at the beach, take along sun and bug protection along. Everyone should protect themselves from sun damage no matter what their age. Waterproof sun block won't wash off even when kids sweat during play. Bug spray keeps mosquitoes at bay in the late evening. When possible, take sun visors or ball caps to keep the sun off of small faces. You can purchase inexpensive visors and caps at your local craft store and decorate them prior to you family picnics.Sticky hands are a way of life with children. To keep their hands clean between eating and play, buy some moist towelettes. A box of cleansing wipes will work wonders to keep hands and fingernails free of dirt and germs in the absence of soap and water. Check the box to see if the wipes are gentle enough to be used on the face.

Remember blankets and toys. Kids may want to sit in the grass and play. A waterproof blanket gives them a comfortable place to sit and play with their toys where you can monitor them. Sitting directly in the grass may make the skin itchy. If you frequent an area where ticks are a nusance, playing in the grass is not a good idea.Since children can get bored rather easy, bring a variety of things for them to do. Kids who don't want to run around may enjoy board games. You?d be amazed at how a game of Scrabble? or Monopoly? can pass the time. Older kids can ride bikes or roller skate if you are in a park or an area with trails. Kids love to picnic. Good food and good times can occupy a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. Packing a few ultimate supplies can keep your picnic an enjoyable family event.

For more excellent child friendly picnic ideas from Christine Steendahl, "The Menu Mom", check out http://www.dinewithoutwhine.com/article-picnic-idea.htm

Tip Of The Day

Place bay leaves in kitchen drawers and in flour and sugar sacks to keep crawling insects away.

Tip For The Day

Vinegar and water will remove salt stains from shoes and boots.

Tip Of The Day

Perk up soggy lettuce by soaking in cold water with some lemon juice. To store place in a zip lock bag with paper towel to absorb moisture.

Tip Of The Day

Before you wear a new garment, put a little clear nail polish on the front and back of each button. Buttons will stay on longer when their threads are sealed.

The Cheese Stands Alone

Humor

The Cheese Stands Alone by © Lisa Barker

Have you ever really paid attention to children's nursery rhymes and songs? They can be downright twisted and scary, if not plain dumb.

Recently, my husband and I had to take our three-year-old Becca Boo in for an EEG. In order to calm and distract her from the electrodes they were attaching to her head, they played some kiddie music.

A verse from one of the songs went: The old man never said his prayers, so they grabbed him by the left leg and threw him down the stairs!

Holy cow! With verses like that, it's no wonder our daughter had some serious concerns about the procedure she was undergoing. Like, "Mom, do you REALLY think this nurse is a safe person for me to be around? Just listen to her taste in music!"

And then there is The Farmer in the Dell. It starts out with the farmer taking a wife, then the wife taking a nurse and the nurse taking a baby and so on until you go through a string of animals, ending with the mouse taking the cheese and then.the cheese stands alone.
What does this really mean?

Is the cheese the hero in this song? Is it striking a heroic pose atop the wheat silo, red cape flowing, to protect the innocent farm people?

Or was it stinky cheese? Couldn't the cheese take a cracker? And if it did, what would the cracker take? Milk?

What if the cheese decided to take wine instead? Did they leave that part out because they thought encouraging children to drink alcohol is inappropriate.but encouraging homicide (like with the old man who didn't say prayers) is okay?

Maybe the cheese takes the wine and then goes on a tear around the farm, running the Farmer's wife's panties up the silo. Maybe the cheese is a code name for the family uncle.the one nobody likes to talk about. Maybe that's why he stands alone.

You know, one of the nursery songs that always concerned me as a kid was the so called lullaby Rock-a-bye Baby. Just when the song gets you all settled and drowsy, the bough breaks and down comes baby cradle and all. What is this?? What mom really thinks singing about dangerous situations is going to reassure a child that all is well with the world and she can fall asleep in complete trust?

Was this the song mothers invented when they'd plain had ENOUGH of their children and wanted some peace and quiet OR ELSE?

Was it one of those subliminal message songs? Kid, you better get some shut-eye or I'm gonna shut those eyes good and fine myself!

That's about as reassuring as this bedtime prayer we all know so well. "Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take." Die??? I'm gonna die??? While I'm sleeping??? Does that mean I'll never wake up again? Is this what my parents hoped for?

It's no surprise to me that children don't like this prayer. I'm thinking that Grimm and many others had it in for kids. But what amazes me is that even today, with everyone armed with pop psychology, so many of these cruel rhymes, songs and stories are repeated for children. It's GOT to be acceptable because it remains one of the perks for parents. How else are you going to get even with the little darlings and not get arrested by the Parenting Police?
Meanwhile, kiddies, let me tell you about this little girl with a red cape and a basket of goodies that she's taking to Grandma's house.

About the Author: Lisa Barker writes amid the chaos and confusion of a busy household. Mom to five kiddos and nine cats, she finds plenty of material to keep the grins and laughs coming. You can read more fun, contact Lisa and sign up for a free subscription at http://www.jellymom.com

Daughters Driving

Daughters Driving - My daughters are driving. Let me explain what this means. It means that two teenage girls whose primary method of observation is "distraction" are out there aiming tons of metal at everything moving. When you see one of my daughters approaching, do not panic. You should (a) pull your vehicle over to the side of the road, and (b) lie face-down in a ditch.

Tip Of The Day

Ant Control: Spread some ground cinnamon where you think the ants are coming in to the house.

Tip Of The Day

For longer lasting pantyhose, try freezing them before you wear them. Just wet, wring out and toss in a plastic bag to freeze. Thaw and hang to dry.

Laundry Day

Laundry Day - As usual, I'm the one who was blamed for the recent family crisis, even though, as readers of this column well know, I am a sensitive and humble wife who is right pretty much 100 percent of the time.

Mother's Meatloaf

Mother's Meatloaf

2 lbs. ground beef
1 onion chopped
1/2 c. ketchup
1 clove garlic minced
1 1/4 c. crushed Ritz crackers
salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients and bake in a loaf pan for 1 hour at 350 degrees. Yummy! Serve with mashed potatoes and a large green salad.

On The Light Side With Humor

On the Light side with Humor

As soon as you pass the last rest-stop for the next 90 miles, someone will need to stop.

At birthday parties, parents are usually early to drop off their kids, and late to pick them up.

The child you are currently dealing with is always treated more unfairly than his siblings.

The child you are currently dealing with is always required to do more work than his siblings.

You no longer have to lock up your favorite candy stash. Just put it on the stairs under the folded laundry and no one will touch it.

If a kid suddenly offers to do dishes or clean the house, it is either for money or credit for a school project.

I don't have to use a road map-- I can just use the veins on my legs.

If I had to choose one voice in the world to have instead of my own, it would be Daddy's.

Your teens get more enjoyment out of watching you cry at the sad parts of the video than they do in watching the video.

Hearing your three teens singing their way through the hymnbook "just for fun" is more gratifying than any CD you will ever buy.

"An object at rest tends to stay at rest" is a law written to describe the contents of your child's bedroom.

"An object in motion tends to stay in motion" is a law written by a parent with toddlers.

I've learned to quickly tell the difference between a good disposable diaper and a bad one.

If you say, "It looks like I'll get to bed early tonight," you won't.

A child's thank-you letter takes 25 times as long to formulate as a Christmas/birthday wish list.
There is no use crying over spilled baby cereal on a wicker chair.

The people that know best how you should be raising your kids are never free to baby-sit.

An Emmy is never more deserved than by a child just asked to clean her room.

Fridges were designed because children needed a cardboard box big enough to make a slide or playhouse.

Every parent possesses many valuable pieces of artwork that didn't cost them a thing.

Your child driving at 50 miles an hour is suddenly much faster than when you drive at 50 miles an hour.

When you help your children with their math homework, you suddenly realize how little you learned in math.

The bags under your eyes do not disappear until at least three years after the birth of your last child.

Mothers alone hold the secret recipe for refilling ice-cube trays.

Tip Of The Day

Wax paper is endlessly useful. Use it: To catch grated cheese, to place under seasoned flour for breading or spices for blackening, to tear into strips to slip under a cake you are icing, to cover a dish you are microwaving.

Easy Bunny Cake

Easy Bunny Cake

SUBMITTED BY: Joni Ehman PHOTO BY: HoschPosch

"A simple version of a coconut white cake shaped like a bunny head! "

PREP TIME 45 Min
COOK TIME 40 Min
READY IN 1 Hr 25 Min

INGREDIENTS
1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
3 3/4 cups flaked coconut
1 (16 ounce) package vanilla frosting
30 small jellybeans
4 red licorice

DIRECTIONS
Heat oven and prepare two 9 inch round baking pans as directed on cake box. Prepare cake batter with as directed on package adding in 1/2 cup of coconut. Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake and cool cake as directed on package.

When cooled, place one whole 9 inch cake layer on serving tray, forming the bunny's head. Cut 2 convex shaped ears from each side of the second layer, place on each side of head to form ears. Use concave shaped piece for the bowtie, place about 1/2 inch below head.

Frost entire bunny covering top and sides of bunny. Pat remaining 3 1/4 cup coconut evenly over top and sides. Decorate the bunny face and bowtie with jellybeans and use the licorice to make whiskers

Creating a Healthy Easter Basket for your Child

Creating a Healthy Easter Basket for your Child

With childhood obesity rates on the rise, this may be the year to try something new for your child's Easter basket. This year, consider buying healthy snacks instead of only candy. Low-calorie or low-fat options don't have to taste bad, and your child may just find a new favorite snack.

Consider Toys for Treats
Keep in mind that you don't just have to stick to edible treats. According to my kids, you can never have too many toys. An Easter basket is about getting a special treat. No one said those treats had to be in the form of candy. Small hand-held electronic games are available at many stores for a reasonable price. For the younger set, try dolls or action figures for great Easter options.

Jelly Beans vs Dried Fruit
Jelly beans taste great, but are packed with sugar. Dried fruit offers nutrition and taste in the same bite-sized portions as jelly beans. Ocean Spray® makes a snack called Craisins®. They are dried sweet cranberry snacks, and come in a variety of different flavors. Also, Sun-Maid®, best known for their raisins, makes dried fruit treats, as well as yogurt- and chocolate-covered raisins. My personal favorite is chopped dates. Try replacing your child's jelly beans with dried fruit this year. Your kids won’t believe that they’re eating something that’s good for them, and you'll have the satisfaction of feeding them a healthy treat.

Snack Size vs Regular Size
If you do choose to add candy to your child's basket, smaller is better. Choose snack-sized morsels like mini sized candy bars or Peppermint Patties®. These candy treats are lower in calories than other, larger, choices. Add three or four for a sweet treat in your child's basket instead of chocolate bunnies or large cream eggs.

Store Bought vs Homemade Treats
We all enjoy going to the store and sweets and snacks, but do you really know what’s in the foods you're eating? Many marketable treats started in someone’s kitchen, and were homemade at one time. Rice Krispy treats®, for example, used to always be homemade. The recipe was on the cereal box long before they became a pre-packaged snack item in the store. Take the time to make healthy low-fat treats for your child's basket. When you know ingredients are in your food, you feel better about serving it to your kids.

Easter baskets don’t have to be chock full of sugar to be enjoyable. Healthy additions provide holiday fun without sacrificing taste.

Article Source: Christian Work From Home Moms- Faithful Grannies