We went to the Home Depot last Saturday for their Kids Workshop and it turned out to be a success! Totally Free and Totally Fun!
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ContentView?catalogId&langId=-1&pn=Kids_Workshops&storeId=10051
The Home Depot's Kids Workshops offer useful projects including the creation of toolboxes, fire trucks and mail organizers, as well as more educational projects, such as a window birdhouse, bughouse or Declaration of Independence frame kit.The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, this fun time allows for quality one-on-one time between adults and children.In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates' aprons, and an achievement pin.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Saturday, November 14, 2009
New Recipes for Laundry Soap and Fabric Softener
I have an obsession with homemade laundry soap and here's a new version from my friend Tiffany...with a fabric softener to try...
Thanks, Tiffany!!
Here's what she had to say about it all: "So lately I've been making my own laundry soap and I've decided that I really, really like it. I wanted to share the recipe with ya'll in case anyone is interested. The last batch I made lasted a little over a month and cost me under $2.00. There are alot of different recipe versions out there and I'm guessing they all work about the same."
Here is her recipe:
Laundry Soap
Makes 2 Gallons
1/3 bar Fels Naptha, grated
1/2 cup Borax
1/2 cup Washing Soda (Arm and Hammer not baking soda)
Hot Water
1. Mix 6 cups of water in a large pot with grated soap. Heat and stir until melted. Turn off heat, add Borax and washing soda. Mix until dissolved. Pour all into big bucket or bowl. Add enough additional water to make 2 gallons (1 more gallon plus 10 more cups of water equals 2 gallons). You can also add essential oil to your detergent if you'd like more scent. Make sure it's pure though because heavy oils can stain clothes.
2. At this point you can put it in whatever container you'd like to store it. I used two empty, clean milk jugs for easy storage and pouring.
3. Before using each time shake the jug. Use 3/4 - 1 cup for every wash.
4. BTW - all of the above ingredients can be purchased at most grocery stores and Walmart on the laundry soap aisle.
Really Great Fabric Softener
3 C vinegar
2 C hair conditioner (any kind)
6 C water
Step 1
in a seal able container (if you have a couple old liquid fabric softener containers, those work well), combine 2 cups hair conditioner (I use a regular sized bottle- a little less than 2 cups), 3 cups vinegar, and 6 cups water.
Step 2
mix all ingredients together
Step 3
store in air tight container.
Step 4
use same amount you would use with regular liquid fabric softener
Thanks, Tiffany!!
Here's what she had to say about it all: "So lately I've been making my own laundry soap and I've decided that I really, really like it. I wanted to share the recipe with ya'll in case anyone is interested. The last batch I made lasted a little over a month and cost me under $2.00. There are alot of different recipe versions out there and I'm guessing they all work about the same."
Here is her recipe:
Laundry Soap
Makes 2 Gallons
1/3 bar Fels Naptha, grated
1/2 cup Borax
1/2 cup Washing Soda (Arm and Hammer not baking soda)
Hot Water
1. Mix 6 cups of water in a large pot with grated soap. Heat and stir until melted. Turn off heat, add Borax and washing soda. Mix until dissolved. Pour all into big bucket or bowl. Add enough additional water to make 2 gallons (1 more gallon plus 10 more cups of water equals 2 gallons). You can also add essential oil to your detergent if you'd like more scent. Make sure it's pure though because heavy oils can stain clothes.
2. At this point you can put it in whatever container you'd like to store it. I used two empty, clean milk jugs for easy storage and pouring.
3. Before using each time shake the jug. Use 3/4 - 1 cup for every wash.
4. BTW - all of the above ingredients can be purchased at most grocery stores and Walmart on the laundry soap aisle.
Really Great Fabric Softener
3 C vinegar
2 C hair conditioner (any kind)
6 C water
Step 1
in a seal able container (if you have a couple old liquid fabric softener containers, those work well), combine 2 cups hair conditioner (I use a regular sized bottle- a little less than 2 cups), 3 cups vinegar, and 6 cups water.
Step 2
mix all ingredients together
Step 3
store in air tight container.
Step 4
use same amount you would use with regular liquid fabric softener
Friday, August 21, 2009
Stay-cation!!
I wish I'd found this sooner...looks like fun!!
http://www.visitsaltlake.com/visit/activities/connect_pass/
Buy one day, get the second day FREE! The Visit Salt Lake Connect Pass is the best way to gain access to Salt Lake's most famous and fascinating attractions. Get it now! This summer the Connect Pass is even better — when you buy your first day, you get your 2nd day FREE! These special Visit Salt Lake Connect Passes are good for the rest of the year, but you have to get them before summer* is over, so Book your Salt Lake Package online now.
http://www.visitsaltlake.com/visit/activities/connect_pass/
Buy one day, get the second day FREE! The Visit Salt Lake Connect Pass is the best way to gain access to Salt Lake's most famous and fascinating attractions. Get it now! This summer the Connect Pass is even better — when you buy your first day, you get your 2nd day FREE! These special Visit Salt Lake Connect Passes are good for the rest of the year, but you have to get them before summer* is over, so Book your Salt Lake Package online now.
*Packages and passes must be purchased from June 20, 2009 to August 31, 2009 and must be used by December 31, 2009.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Kid's Cooking Activities
I just found an awesome website that I wanted to share with you.
I'm putting together some summer activities for my children and want to have some cooking lessons for them.
This website has some great ideas: http://www.kids-cooking-activities.com/
I'm putting together some summer activities for my children and want to have some cooking lessons for them.
This website has some great ideas: http://www.kids-cooking-activities.com/
Creamy Banana Bread
I just got this recipe from a friend...it is so good, I had to share!
Creamy Banana Bread
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1¼ cups sugar
2 large eggs
1½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium)
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2¼ cups flour
1½ tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1¼ cups finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
4 tsp. cinnamon
Directions
Prep time: 20 minutes, Cook time: about 1 hour 15 minutes
Preheat oven to 325°F and spray two 8½x4½x2½-inch loaf pans with nonstick cooking spray. Cream butter and cream cheese in a large bowl with an electric mixer. Gradually add sugar; continue beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in mashed bananas and vanilla. Add flour, baking powder and baking soda, stirring just until moistened. Combine remaining ingredients in a small bowl. Pour half of batter into prepared pans; sprinkle with half of nut mixture. Repeat layers and bake for 45 minutes. Tent loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes more or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Makes 2 loaves.
Nutritional Information:Nutrition per serving (140 g, based on 12 slices): 460 calories, 7 g protein, 24 g total fat (10 g sat., 0 g trans), 55 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 31 g sugar, 80 mg cholesterol, 230 mg sodium, 10 points
Shopping List:1/2 cup butter or margarine, 1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, 1¼ cups sugar, 2 large eggs, 1½ cups mashed ripe bananas , 1 tsp. vanilla extract, 2¼ cups flour, 1½ tsp. baking powder, 1/2 tsp. baking soda, 1¼ cups finely chopped pecans, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 4 tsp. cinnamon
Creamy Banana Bread
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1¼ cups sugar
2 large eggs
1½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium)
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2¼ cups flour
1½ tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1¼ cups finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
4 tsp. cinnamon
Directions
Prep time: 20 minutes, Cook time: about 1 hour 15 minutes
Preheat oven to 325°F and spray two 8½x4½x2½-inch loaf pans with nonstick cooking spray. Cream butter and cream cheese in a large bowl with an electric mixer. Gradually add sugar; continue beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in mashed bananas and vanilla. Add flour, baking powder and baking soda, stirring just until moistened. Combine remaining ingredients in a small bowl. Pour half of batter into prepared pans; sprinkle with half of nut mixture. Repeat layers and bake for 45 minutes. Tent loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes more or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Makes 2 loaves.
Nutritional Information:Nutrition per serving (140 g, based on 12 slices): 460 calories, 7 g protein, 24 g total fat (10 g sat., 0 g trans), 55 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 31 g sugar, 80 mg cholesterol, 230 mg sodium, 10 points
Shopping List:1/2 cup butter or margarine, 1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, 1¼ cups sugar, 2 large eggs, 1½ cups mashed ripe bananas , 1 tsp. vanilla extract, 2¼ cups flour, 1½ tsp. baking powder, 1/2 tsp. baking soda, 1¼ cups finely chopped pecans, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 4 tsp. cinnamon
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Prayer Pretzels
This was a neat family night for us:
Prayer Pretzels
You'll need:
1 package of dry yeast1-1/2 cups lukewarm water (not hot)2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon salt 4 cups of flour 1 beaten eggsalt
Dissolve yeast in warm water and let rise a few minutes. Add sugar and salt and blend in 4 cups flour. Turn dough out on floured table or breadboard and knead until smooth. Refrigerate until you are ready to use at your table. Preheat oven to 325 . Lightly grease cookie sheet or toaster oven tray. Cut off 4" piece of dough roll into ropes about six to eight inches, or a length you can easily twist. Twist into shape with loop at top and two arms folded over. Arrange on lightly greased toaster oven tray or cookie sheet allowing space between pretzels for expansion. Brush with beaten egg -- those places you miss will not brown. Sprinkle with salt. Bake 12-15 minutes. Ovens may vary so check after 7-8 minutes.
Talk about prayer with your family:
There are many types of prayers. Ask the children if they can think of any:.
Prayers of Gratitude (food - family - home - health - earth)
Peace (giving talk or performing so nerves will be calm)
Safety (travel, etc.)
Someone's health - friend family member facing surgery or medical problem
Strength / Priesthood Blessings (to get through a tough situation)
Sacrament Prayers
Review prayer language
Tell the story of the Pretzel - In about 610 A.D. a very creative Alpine Monk decided to make use of the dough left over from baking bread. The Monk formed them into thin strips folded into a looped twist to represent the folded arms of children in prayer. This scrumptious treat was given to the children as they learned their prayers. They began calling the treat "Pretiola", which is Latin for "little reward". Soon it was known to the world as pretzel. The secret of making great pretzels is not only in the baking but also in the shaping. We, like pretzels, are made from the best ingredients, by the best hands available, the hands of our Father in Heaven. Have you ever seen a broken pretzel, or one that has lost it's shape? We too, can lose our shape when we don't pray always to keep our spirituality in place. The simple shape of the pretzel, arms folded in prayer, reminds us to pray each day. Our "Pretiola" or "little rewards" are the blessings we receive. During this twisting time, it may be possible to talk about what happens when we pray for others. Francis of Assisi said, "The gift of prayer is no small gift, to whomever it is given." It is a gift implying love, thoughtfulness, and often action on the part of the person who says the prayer.
While the children are making their pretzels, ask them to think of one person they can pray for and to challenge them to remember them throughout the day and in their prayers. (Before starting family prayers at night, review the names of those you want to remember so that you can pray for them as a family too.)
Prayer Pretzels
You'll need:
1 package of dry yeast1-1/2 cups lukewarm water (not hot)2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon salt 4 cups of flour 1 beaten eggsalt
Dissolve yeast in warm water and let rise a few minutes. Add sugar and salt and blend in 4 cups flour. Turn dough out on floured table or breadboard and knead until smooth. Refrigerate until you are ready to use at your table. Preheat oven to 325 . Lightly grease cookie sheet or toaster oven tray. Cut off 4" piece of dough roll into ropes about six to eight inches, or a length you can easily twist. Twist into shape with loop at top and two arms folded over. Arrange on lightly greased toaster oven tray or cookie sheet allowing space between pretzels for expansion. Brush with beaten egg -- those places you miss will not brown. Sprinkle with salt. Bake 12-15 minutes. Ovens may vary so check after 7-8 minutes.
Talk about prayer with your family:
There are many types of prayers. Ask the children if they can think of any:.
Prayers of Gratitude (food - family - home - health - earth)
Peace (giving talk or performing so nerves will be calm)
Safety (travel, etc.)
Someone's health - friend family member facing surgery or medical problem
Strength / Priesthood Blessings (to get through a tough situation)
Sacrament Prayers
Review prayer language
Tell the story of the Pretzel - In about 610 A.D. a very creative Alpine Monk decided to make use of the dough left over from baking bread. The Monk formed them into thin strips folded into a looped twist to represent the folded arms of children in prayer. This scrumptious treat was given to the children as they learned their prayers. They began calling the treat "Pretiola", which is Latin for "little reward". Soon it was known to the world as pretzel. The secret of making great pretzels is not only in the baking but also in the shaping. We, like pretzels, are made from the best ingredients, by the best hands available, the hands of our Father in Heaven. Have you ever seen a broken pretzel, or one that has lost it's shape? We too, can lose our shape when we don't pray always to keep our spirituality in place. The simple shape of the pretzel, arms folded in prayer, reminds us to pray each day. Our "Pretiola" or "little rewards" are the blessings we receive. During this twisting time, it may be possible to talk about what happens when we pray for others. Francis of Assisi said, "The gift of prayer is no small gift, to whomever it is given." It is a gift implying love, thoughtfulness, and often action on the part of the person who says the prayer.
While the children are making their pretzels, ask them to think of one person they can pray for and to challenge them to remember them throughout the day and in their prayers. (Before starting family prayers at night, review the names of those you want to remember so that you can pray for them as a family too.)
Easy Santa Fe Chicken (crockpot)
I love my crockpot! I'd use it everyday if I could!
Here's one of our favorite crockpot recipes:
CROCKPOT EASY SANTA FE CHICKEN
1 15 oz can black beans -- rinsed and drained
2 15.25 oz cans whole kernel corn -- drained
1 cup bottled thick and chunky salsa
5 or 6 skinless boneless chicken breasts -- (can use frozen)
1 8 oz brick cream cheese -- low fat is fine
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
In a 3.5 or 4 quart electric slow cooker, mix together the beans, corn, and 1/2 cup salsa. Top with the chicken breasts, then pour the remaining salsa over the chicken. Cover and cook on the high heat setting 2.5-3 hours, or until the chicken is tender and white throughout; do not overcook or the chicken will toughen. Remove the chicken and cut into bite sized pieces. Add back to the slow cooker. Add the cream cheese (cut into cubes to melt faster), and turn slow cooker to high heat. Heat until cream cheese melts and blends into sauce. Serve over rice. Top with shredded cheese.
Here's one of our favorite crockpot recipes:
CROCKPOT EASY SANTA FE CHICKEN
1 15 oz can black beans -- rinsed and drained
2 15.25 oz cans whole kernel corn -- drained
1 cup bottled thick and chunky salsa
5 or 6 skinless boneless chicken breasts -- (can use frozen)
1 8 oz brick cream cheese -- low fat is fine
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
In a 3.5 or 4 quart electric slow cooker, mix together the beans, corn, and 1/2 cup salsa. Top with the chicken breasts, then pour the remaining salsa over the chicken. Cover and cook on the high heat setting 2.5-3 hours, or until the chicken is tender and white throughout; do not overcook or the chicken will toughen. Remove the chicken and cut into bite sized pieces. Add back to the slow cooker. Add the cream cheese (cut into cubes to melt faster), and turn slow cooker to high heat. Heat until cream cheese melts and blends into sauce. Serve over rice. Top with shredded cheese.
Here's a List of Family Favorite Recipes...Yum!
CAFE RIO SALAD DRESSING
3 FRESH TOMATILLOS (PEEL OFF PAPER SKIN AND QUARTER)
1 PACKAGE BUTTERMILK RANCH
1 CUP MAYO
1/2 CUP BUTTERMILK
1 CUP CILANTRO
2 GARLIC CLOVES, CRUSHED
1/4 TSP. CRUSHED CAYENNE PEPPER
BLEND ALL INGREDIENTS IN BLENDER AND CHILL FOR AT LEAST ONE HOUR BEFORE SERVING. ENJOY!
Lime Rice
6 cups minute rice
6 cups water
9 bouillon chicken cubes
1 1/2 tsp. dried onion
3/4 bunch cilantro
3 TBS oil
2 limes
Bring water, bouillon, dried onion, cilantro, and oil to boil (I just do it on the stove in a big pot) Add rice. Add juice of 2 limes. Mix well - and then dump it all into a crockpot on low and it will stay warm and cook the minute rice - you can make it a couple of hours ahead because of the crockpot - The cilantro I blend up in my baby food grinder - but I suppose you could do it in any kind of grinder - maybe even the blender –
Here is the recipe for the sweet pork:
1 Pork Roast (some butchers call it the Boston Butt)
1 Cup Italian Dressing
1 Cup French Dressing
1 Cup Brown Sugar
3/4 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
If you have a huge roast then I would double the sauce. Put in crock pot on low for at least 7 hours. About 1-2 hours before you are going to eat, shred the pork really well. Serve with limes, too, because the lime juice really makes it great!
For the salad, we just did romaine lettuce, crushed tortilla chips, black beans, corn, salsa, cheese, and ranch dressing. For mexican haystacks, I do crushed chips, white rice with a little cilantro and lime juice, the pork, cheese, sour cream, and then the following salsa.
Super Bowl Artichoke Dip
1 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 can (14 oz) Artichoke hearts, finely chopped
1/2 cup Mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sliced almonds
Wheat thins
Mix cream cheese, artichokes, mayo, and parmesan cheese. Spoon into 9 inch pie plate. Sprinkle with almonds.
Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned and bubbly
Serve warm as a dip with crackers. Makes about 2 1/2 cups.
Enjoy!
Rice bowls are always a big hit here at the house. The kids love em, and you can do sweet and sour, teriyaki, or everyone's favorite, with peanut sauce! Plus, it's a great way to get the veggies in! Just stir fry for a few minutes and you're done (too much stir frying and you'll get limp veggies that no one will eat!)
Peanut Sauce Recipe:
1 Tablespoon Peanut Oil
2 Garlic Cloves, minced
1 teaspoon chili paste (more if you like it spicier!)
1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 1/2 Tablespoons Chunky Peanut Butter (Jif is best)
1/4 cup Hoisin Sauce
Heat the oil, then add the garlic, chili paste and tomato paste. Fry until fragrant (about 1 min.). Add water, sugar, peanut butter and hoisin sauce. Boil for about 5 minutes. Mmmm Mmmm Good! I usually have to at least double (if not triple) the recipe to keep everyone happy!
Teriyaki sauce:
1 cup Kikoman Soy Sauce
1 1/2 cups brown sugar - make sure you stir until the sugar has dissolved in the soy sauce
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger root (or 2 teaspoons powdered ginger)
P.F. CHANG’S LETTUCE WRAPS
1 head iceberg lettuce
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts
2 chicken breast halves
2 teaspoons bottled minced ginger
1 bunch green onions
1 large onion, diced
1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 T. bottled minced garlic
1/8 t. cayenne pepper
1 Tablespoon soy sauce
1. Separate lettuce leaves, wash and refrigerate for a few hours (or overnight) until cold and crisp.
2. Dice chicken into small pieces. (This is easier if it's partially frozen.)
3. Stir fry on high heat in a small amount of oil until done. Add diced onion and stir fry for a minute or two.
4. Lower heat to medium. Stir in minced garlic, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger, vinegar, and cayenne pepper.
5. Stir to blend and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
6. Add chopped water chestnuts.
7. Rinse the green onions, trim away the roots. Slice thin and use the white bulb plus some of the green tops to equal 3/4 cup.
8. Add the green onion to the skillet with the sesame oil. Cook and stir until onions begin to wilt. Remove from heat.
To serve, Arrange lettuce leaves around the outer edge of a platter. Place meat mixture in the center.
Does P.F. Chang's sell their own red pepper sauce? If not, you can find some good stuff in the Asian stores, or the Oriental section of the grocery store. Anybody have a favorite you can recommend?
Won Ton Salad
2-4 chicken breasts-boiled and shredded
1 Head of lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
1 Bunch of green onions-diced
15 won ton skins-cut in strips and fried in vegetable oil
Dressing:
2T sugar
1/2 t. accent
1/2 t. pepper
1 t. salt
1/4 c. oil
1 T. sesame oil
3 T. rice vinegar
Toss lettuce, shredded chicken, fried won tons and diced green onions together. Add dressing just before serving.
Winger's Buffalo Wings Sauce
2 1/2 cups firmly packed brown sugar3 tablespoons light corn syrup1/3 cup Franks Red Hot pepper sauce (or any other brand of Louisiana hot sauce - but not Tabasco)1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar1/2 cup hot water
Place brown sugar and corn syrup in medium saucepan and melt over medium heat until boiling. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly or it will burn. Add hot water, pepper sauce and vinegar. Stir all ingredients together well and continue cooking at a low boil, stirring often until mixture has reduced to a syrupy consistency (about 15 minutes). The sauce will thicken considerably as it cools.
Perfectly Glazed Carrots
1 pound baby carrots
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 Tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 Tablespoon butter, cut into pieces
2 teaspoons lemon juice, or less
pepper, optional
Bring carrots, salt, 1 T. sugar, and chicken broth to a boil, covered, in 12 inch skillet over medium high heat. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer until carrots are almost tender - 5 or 10 minutes. Uncover. Increase heat to high and continue cooking and stirring until the liquid is reduced to about 2 Tablespoons. (1-2 minutes) Add butter and remaining 2 T. sugar.
Toss carrots to coat and cook, stirring often, until carrots are completely tender and glaze is a light gold color, about 3 minutes. Turn off the heat, stir in lemon juice. Transfer carrots to serving dish. Season with pepper if desired. Serve hot.
Better Than Anything Cake
1 pkg. German Chocolate Cake
1 can sweetened condensed milk
20 melted caramels mixed with ¼ cup milk
whipping cream
2-3 crushed Heath Bars
Make cake according to directions. Poke holes into cake with a straw or wooden spoon handle. Pour condensed milk and Carmel into holes and over entire cake. Let completely cool. Top with whipping cream and crushed Heath bar.
White Bean Chili
3 cans Great Northern White Beans (total about 48 oz)4 cups cooked and cubed chicken breasts1 T olive oil1 medium onions, chopped4 garlic cloves minced1-2 4oz cans chopped mild green chilies2 t ground cumin1 1/2 t dried oregano1/4 t cayenne pepper6 cups chicken stock or canned chicken brother3 cups grated Monterey jack cheese In crockpot - combine ALL the ingredients except the cheese (don't drain the beans). After chili comes to a boil, turn the crockpot to low - Stir in the cheese 1/2 hour before or leave it on the side for people to do it themselves. You can serve it with salt/pepper, Lime chips and sour cream on the side as well - If you really have a lot of time - BBQ the chicken outside, then cut it up and put it in the soup - but not worth the work unless you're in that cooking mood!
Crock pot Lasagna
12 lasagna noodles, uncooked 1 jar spaghetti sauce ¼ c water
1 lb ground beef, browned and drained 1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 carton (16 oz) cottage cheese 2 c mozzarella cheese
Break noodles in half. Place half of the noodles in the bottom of greased crockpot. Stir Italian seasoning into meat and spread half over the noodles already in crockpot. Layer half of the sauce and water, half of the cottage cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese over beef.
Repeat layers. Cover and cook on low heat 4-5 hours. Do not cook more than 5 hours.
Chicken Cordon Blue Casserole
INGREDIENTS:
2 pounds skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
8 oz Swiss cheese, cubed
8 oz ham, diced
1 can (10 3/4 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1 box of stuffing
1-2 T. butter
PREPARATION:
Brown chicken and place chunks in baking dish, add cubes of swiss cheese and small pieces of ham. Mix cream of chicken soup with 1 cup of milk; mix well and pour over all. In a separate pan, melt butter, pour in dry stuffing, mix. Pour stuffing over casserole. Bake about 30 minutes at 350° or until tender and bubbly.
Café Rio Pork Roast #2
3-4 lb. pork sirloin roast1 C. Pace salsa1 1/3 C. brown sugar1 C. 7-up
Place roast in crockpot. Mix salsa, brown sugar and 7-up together. Pour over roast. Cook on low all day (8 hrs). Shred with forks before serving.
*Serve on top of salad, or use to make burritos. Then we add warm black beans, cooked rice, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, and ranch dressing. The below dressing is also really yummy if you want to make it instead of using plain ranch.
1 1/3 C sour cream3/4 C. mayo1 bunch cilantro4 TBS. salsa verde1 pkg. ranch dressing mix2 cloves garlic1/8 tsp. tabasco saucejuice of 1 lime
*Or you can get some really fancy-schmancy rolls and serve them as sandwiches - any way you make it, it’s to die for!
Chicken Enchiladas (the easy version)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 4oz. can chopped Ortega Chili
8 oz. sour cream
1 doz. corn tortillas
1 med. onion, chopped
1 1/2 - 2 cups cooked, cubed chicken…(canned works well also)
Jack Cheese, grated.
In a bowl combine chicken soup, sour cream, ortega chili, 1/2 c jack cheese 1/4 c. chopped onion and set aside.
Cut tortillas into bite size pieces and add to soup mixture, mix. Add chicken and combine well. Spray an 8×8 baking dish with cooking spray. Add mixture and top with Jack Cheese.
Bake approx. 30 min. uncovered until bubbly and cheese starts to brown a bit.
I’m a big make and freeze ahead girl and this casserole freezes and bakes well!
3 FRESH TOMATILLOS (PEEL OFF PAPER SKIN AND QUARTER)
1 PACKAGE BUTTERMILK RANCH
1 CUP MAYO
1/2 CUP BUTTERMILK
1 CUP CILANTRO
2 GARLIC CLOVES, CRUSHED
1/4 TSP. CRUSHED CAYENNE PEPPER
BLEND ALL INGREDIENTS IN BLENDER AND CHILL FOR AT LEAST ONE HOUR BEFORE SERVING. ENJOY!
Lime Rice
6 cups minute rice
6 cups water
9 bouillon chicken cubes
1 1/2 tsp. dried onion
3/4 bunch cilantro
3 TBS oil
2 limes
Bring water, bouillon, dried onion, cilantro, and oil to boil (I just do it on the stove in a big pot) Add rice. Add juice of 2 limes. Mix well - and then dump it all into a crockpot on low and it will stay warm and cook the minute rice - you can make it a couple of hours ahead because of the crockpot - The cilantro I blend up in my baby food grinder - but I suppose you could do it in any kind of grinder - maybe even the blender –
Here is the recipe for the sweet pork:
1 Pork Roast (some butchers call it the Boston Butt)
1 Cup Italian Dressing
1 Cup French Dressing
1 Cup Brown Sugar
3/4 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
If you have a huge roast then I would double the sauce. Put in crock pot on low for at least 7 hours. About 1-2 hours before you are going to eat, shred the pork really well. Serve with limes, too, because the lime juice really makes it great!
For the salad, we just did romaine lettuce, crushed tortilla chips, black beans, corn, salsa, cheese, and ranch dressing. For mexican haystacks, I do crushed chips, white rice with a little cilantro and lime juice, the pork, cheese, sour cream, and then the following salsa.
Super Bowl Artichoke Dip
1 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 can (14 oz) Artichoke hearts, finely chopped
1/2 cup Mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sliced almonds
Wheat thins
Mix cream cheese, artichokes, mayo, and parmesan cheese. Spoon into 9 inch pie plate. Sprinkle with almonds.
Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned and bubbly
Serve warm as a dip with crackers. Makes about 2 1/2 cups.
Enjoy!
Rice bowls are always a big hit here at the house. The kids love em, and you can do sweet and sour, teriyaki, or everyone's favorite, with peanut sauce! Plus, it's a great way to get the veggies in! Just stir fry for a few minutes and you're done (too much stir frying and you'll get limp veggies that no one will eat!)
Peanut Sauce Recipe:
1 Tablespoon Peanut Oil
2 Garlic Cloves, minced
1 teaspoon chili paste (more if you like it spicier!)
1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 1/2 Tablespoons Chunky Peanut Butter (Jif is best)
1/4 cup Hoisin Sauce
Heat the oil, then add the garlic, chili paste and tomato paste. Fry until fragrant (about 1 min.). Add water, sugar, peanut butter and hoisin sauce. Boil for about 5 minutes. Mmmm Mmmm Good! I usually have to at least double (if not triple) the recipe to keep everyone happy!
Teriyaki sauce:
1 cup Kikoman Soy Sauce
1 1/2 cups brown sugar - make sure you stir until the sugar has dissolved in the soy sauce
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger root (or 2 teaspoons powdered ginger)
P.F. CHANG’S LETTUCE WRAPS
1 head iceberg lettuce
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts
2 chicken breast halves
2 teaspoons bottled minced ginger
1 bunch green onions
1 large onion, diced
1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 T. bottled minced garlic
1/8 t. cayenne pepper
1 Tablespoon soy sauce
1. Separate lettuce leaves, wash and refrigerate for a few hours (or overnight) until cold and crisp.
2. Dice chicken into small pieces. (This is easier if it's partially frozen.)
3. Stir fry on high heat in a small amount of oil until done. Add diced onion and stir fry for a minute or two.
4. Lower heat to medium. Stir in minced garlic, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger, vinegar, and cayenne pepper.
5. Stir to blend and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
6. Add chopped water chestnuts.
7. Rinse the green onions, trim away the roots. Slice thin and use the white bulb plus some of the green tops to equal 3/4 cup.
8. Add the green onion to the skillet with the sesame oil. Cook and stir until onions begin to wilt. Remove from heat.
To serve, Arrange lettuce leaves around the outer edge of a platter. Place meat mixture in the center.
Does P.F. Chang's sell their own red pepper sauce? If not, you can find some good stuff in the Asian stores, or the Oriental section of the grocery store. Anybody have a favorite you can recommend?
Won Ton Salad
2-4 chicken breasts-boiled and shredded
1 Head of lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
1 Bunch of green onions-diced
15 won ton skins-cut in strips and fried in vegetable oil
Dressing:
2T sugar
1/2 t. accent
1/2 t. pepper
1 t. salt
1/4 c. oil
1 T. sesame oil
3 T. rice vinegar
Toss lettuce, shredded chicken, fried won tons and diced green onions together. Add dressing just before serving.
Winger's Buffalo Wings Sauce
2 1/2 cups firmly packed brown sugar3 tablespoons light corn syrup1/3 cup Franks Red Hot pepper sauce (or any other brand of Louisiana hot sauce - but not Tabasco)1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar1/2 cup hot water
Place brown sugar and corn syrup in medium saucepan and melt over medium heat until boiling. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly or it will burn. Add hot water, pepper sauce and vinegar. Stir all ingredients together well and continue cooking at a low boil, stirring often until mixture has reduced to a syrupy consistency (about 15 minutes). The sauce will thicken considerably as it cools.
Perfectly Glazed Carrots
1 pound baby carrots
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 Tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 Tablespoon butter, cut into pieces
2 teaspoons lemon juice, or less
pepper, optional
Bring carrots, salt, 1 T. sugar, and chicken broth to a boil, covered, in 12 inch skillet over medium high heat. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer until carrots are almost tender - 5 or 10 minutes. Uncover. Increase heat to high and continue cooking and stirring until the liquid is reduced to about 2 Tablespoons. (1-2 minutes) Add butter and remaining 2 T. sugar.
Toss carrots to coat and cook, stirring often, until carrots are completely tender and glaze is a light gold color, about 3 minutes. Turn off the heat, stir in lemon juice. Transfer carrots to serving dish. Season with pepper if desired. Serve hot.
Better Than Anything Cake
1 pkg. German Chocolate Cake
1 can sweetened condensed milk
20 melted caramels mixed with ¼ cup milk
whipping cream
2-3 crushed Heath Bars
Make cake according to directions. Poke holes into cake with a straw or wooden spoon handle. Pour condensed milk and Carmel into holes and over entire cake. Let completely cool. Top with whipping cream and crushed Heath bar.
White Bean Chili
3 cans Great Northern White Beans (total about 48 oz)4 cups cooked and cubed chicken breasts1 T olive oil1 medium onions, chopped4 garlic cloves minced1-2 4oz cans chopped mild green chilies2 t ground cumin1 1/2 t dried oregano1/4 t cayenne pepper6 cups chicken stock or canned chicken brother3 cups grated Monterey jack cheese In crockpot - combine ALL the ingredients except the cheese (don't drain the beans). After chili comes to a boil, turn the crockpot to low - Stir in the cheese 1/2 hour before or leave it on the side for people to do it themselves. You can serve it with salt/pepper, Lime chips and sour cream on the side as well - If you really have a lot of time - BBQ the chicken outside, then cut it up and put it in the soup - but not worth the work unless you're in that cooking mood!
Crock pot Lasagna
12 lasagna noodles, uncooked 1 jar spaghetti sauce ¼ c water
1 lb ground beef, browned and drained 1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 carton (16 oz) cottage cheese 2 c mozzarella cheese
Break noodles in half. Place half of the noodles in the bottom of greased crockpot. Stir Italian seasoning into meat and spread half over the noodles already in crockpot. Layer half of the sauce and water, half of the cottage cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese over beef.
Repeat layers. Cover and cook on low heat 4-5 hours. Do not cook more than 5 hours.
Chicken Cordon Blue Casserole
INGREDIENTS:
2 pounds skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
8 oz Swiss cheese, cubed
8 oz ham, diced
1 can (10 3/4 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1 box of stuffing
1-2 T. butter
PREPARATION:
Brown chicken and place chunks in baking dish, add cubes of swiss cheese and small pieces of ham. Mix cream of chicken soup with 1 cup of milk; mix well and pour over all. In a separate pan, melt butter, pour in dry stuffing, mix. Pour stuffing over casserole. Bake about 30 minutes at 350° or until tender and bubbly.
Café Rio Pork Roast #2
3-4 lb. pork sirloin roast1 C. Pace salsa1 1/3 C. brown sugar1 C. 7-up
Place roast in crockpot. Mix salsa, brown sugar and 7-up together. Pour over roast. Cook on low all day (8 hrs). Shred with forks before serving.
*Serve on top of salad, or use to make burritos. Then we add warm black beans, cooked rice, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, and ranch dressing. The below dressing is also really yummy if you want to make it instead of using plain ranch.
1 1/3 C sour cream3/4 C. mayo1 bunch cilantro4 TBS. salsa verde1 pkg. ranch dressing mix2 cloves garlic1/8 tsp. tabasco saucejuice of 1 lime
*Or you can get some really fancy-schmancy rolls and serve them as sandwiches - any way you make it, it’s to die for!
Chicken Enchiladas (the easy version)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 4oz. can chopped Ortega Chili
8 oz. sour cream
1 doz. corn tortillas
1 med. onion, chopped
1 1/2 - 2 cups cooked, cubed chicken…(canned works well also)
Jack Cheese, grated.
In a bowl combine chicken soup, sour cream, ortega chili, 1/2 c jack cheese 1/4 c. chopped onion and set aside.
Cut tortillas into bite size pieces and add to soup mixture, mix. Add chicken and combine well. Spray an 8×8 baking dish with cooking spray. Add mixture and top with Jack Cheese.
Bake approx. 30 min. uncovered until bubbly and cheese starts to brown a bit.
I’m a big make and freeze ahead girl and this casserole freezes and bakes well!
Baby-Sitting...Puttin' in your time, saves the dime.
Here are some ideas for qualitiy baby-sitting for free!
* Start a baby-sitting exchange with a friend.
Here's how it works: On a weekend night, once your friend's kids are in bed, go over and baby-sit until 11:30p.m. while your husband stays home with your kids. Then, on the following weekend, put your kids to bed around 7:30-8 p.m., call your friend to come over, and then go out until 11:30. Here are some advantages for the exchage: the kids keep their normal bedtime routines, no payment is made for baby-sitting, each couple enjoys some alone time and even the mom doing the baby-sitting has a relaxing evening!
*Start your own Baby-Sitting Co-op.
Here's some ideas for rules. Both parent and sitter must report hours to the coordiator; time is rounded off to the nearest fifteen minutes. Sick children are not to be left at a sitter's house, nor are you allowed to watch other children if your child is ill. Do not discuss problems with co-op children with anyone else but the parent, and report children's behavior honestly with the parents. Parents provide all meals and snacks needed.
* Start a baby-sitting exchange with a friend.
Here's how it works: On a weekend night, once your friend's kids are in bed, go over and baby-sit until 11:30p.m. while your husband stays home with your kids. Then, on the following weekend, put your kids to bed around 7:30-8 p.m., call your friend to come over, and then go out until 11:30. Here are some advantages for the exchage: the kids keep their normal bedtime routines, no payment is made for baby-sitting, each couple enjoys some alone time and even the mom doing the baby-sitting has a relaxing evening!
*Start your own Baby-Sitting Co-op.
Here's some ideas for rules. Both parent and sitter must report hours to the coordiator; time is rounded off to the nearest fifteen minutes. Sick children are not to be left at a sitter's house, nor are you allowed to watch other children if your child is ill. Do not discuss problems with co-op children with anyone else but the parent, and report children's behavior honestly with the parents. Parents provide all meals and snacks needed.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Keeping Those Cavities Away!
A few months ago I went to the dentist. I found a coupon and thought, "this is a good deal." So, I packed up the kids, and away we went. Upon a quick examination, the dentist declared that I had FIVE cavities. I'd never had a cavity before and now I had FIVE! "No Way!" I thought. I waited a few months and finally decided that I'd better get a second opinion. Well...guess what! I didn't have any cavities! Zip! Zero!
Moral of the story: buyer beware out there and if something seems out of sorts, get a second opinion. I saved hundreds of dollars by getting that second opinion and now I'm more determined than ever to have good dental hygiene!
The dentist that I now go to recommends a few things to help keep those cavities at bay. Here's his suggestions:
* Floss at night with Glide Floss:
* Rinse in the morning and at night with Act Restoring Mouthwash:
*Brush at least morning and night with Colgate Total Toothpaste:
Moral of the story: buyer beware out there and if something seems out of sorts, get a second opinion. I saved hundreds of dollars by getting that second opinion and now I'm more determined than ever to have good dental hygiene!
The dentist that I now go to recommends a few things to help keep those cavities at bay. Here's his suggestions:
* Floss at night with Glide Floss:
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* Rinse in the morning and at night with Act Restoring Mouthwash:
Only One Type of Mouthwash Won’t Rinse Fluoride Away
When you use a mouthwash after you brush and floss, you might think you're completing your daily oral care routine the best way possible. But, you’re not. When you use an ordinary, non-fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing you may actually negate the fluoride efficacy of toothpaste. ACT Fluoride Rinses and Restoring Mouthwashes contain the highest amounts of fluoride available in rinse form without a prescription.
Get the Facts
Regular use of ACT Anticavity Fluoride Rinse can:
- Help prevent cavities in children over six as their teeth are developing
- Strengthen tooth enamel
- Prevent white spot lesions in teens with braces
- Help protect the roots of adult teeth as their gums begin to recede
ACT Restoring™ Anticavity Mouthwash adds the additional benefit of killing bad breath germs. That’s why we call it 3 ACTs in 1 bottle.
*Brush at least morning and night with Colgate Total Toothpaste:
Colgate Total® toothpaste is #1 recommended most often by dentists and the first to be approved by the FDA and accepted by the ADA to fight plaque and gingivitis.
- Complete 12-hour protection fighting a full range of oral health problems.
- It helps prevent plaque and gingivitis — even after meals
- Fights tartar build-up, bad breath and helps prevent cavities.
Available in a variety of flavors and forms. Choose the one that is right for you. Total Advanced Whitening Paste, Total Advanced Clean, Total Advanced Fresh Gel, Total Clean Mint Paste, Total Whitening Paste, Total Whitening Gel, Total Plus Whitening Liquid and Total Mint Stripe Gel.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
I Love Foam Soap!
I love Bath and Body Works Hand Soap. But I consider it a luxury and I pride myself in being economical so I always buy the big refill soap at Walmart and use and reuse the dispensers. I stumbled upon this recipe for foam soap...and I love it. It fulfills my need to use and reuse, and lets me have my Bath and Body Works Soap at the same time! I bought the foam soap on sale at Bath and Body and now I refill the foam dispensers with my favorite regular Bath and Body hand soap. However, this will work with anything! It's my new favorite frugal trick!
Foam Soap Refill
Don't throw away your foam soap dispenser or spend extra on the refills when you run out. It's easy to make your own! This also works with shampoo.
1 bottleIngredients
- 3 tablespoons liquid hand soap or Joy dishwashing soap
- 2/3 cup warm water
Directions
- Gently mix soap with water.
- Do not shake.
- Pour into foam soap dispenser.
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