Dabblings

Big Boy Belt

2012-02-01T12:34:00.000-08:00

I saw this belt tutorial several months ago and I finally made Jake a belt. I let him pick out the belt material and he loves wearing it.

I Spy Bags

2011-12-19T14:28:00.000-08:00

I made the boys some I Spy Bags as stocking stuffers this year. These measure 6 X 6 and I used buttons that the boys picked out at Joanns as the filler items. I told them I was making them a special present and they seemed excited about it. I took pictures of the items and I'm going to print them and attach them to the bag.

David Walker Rocket fabric:

Jonah's picks:

Jake's picks:

Reading Nook

2011-09-14T08:38:00.001-07:00

Our little reading nook in the gameroom is coming along. Dan and I made some more flat wall book holders found here. After Dan assembled them last night, I couldn't wait to finish them so I was painting outside by lantern light. I'll be doing one more coat of paint today. I was too excited to wait for them to dry that I had Dan hang them late last night.

Kitchen Curtain

2011-09-12T14:18:00.000-07:00

For nine months I had a piece of Amy Butler fabric hanging over my kitchen sink just waiting for me to make it into a curtain. Today I finally did it.

Flat Wall Bookholder

2011-09-07T19:57:00.000-07:00

I have been eyeing some bookholders at a certain store for awhile but I just couldn't bring myself to pay the going price for them. I found this tutorial Flat Wall Bookholder of the exact bookholder that I wanted and talked Dan into helping me build it. I'm so happy with how it turned out and the materials only cost us around $6 because we had nails and paint. We are making a few more for the reading nook in our gameroom.

High Chair Redo

2011-08-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

I finally refinished the wooden highchair that Dan bought me for Mother's Day a few years ago when I was pregnant with Jacob. I originally stained it. It was really yucky from stuck on food and I didn't do a great job staining it. I sanded, primed, painted and put a polyurethane on it. It looks so cheery in my yellow kitchen. I love it again.

Supper Club Food

2011-05-22T18:28:00.000-07:00

As guests arrived we had them fill up their mason jars with rasperry lemonade and served them sweet potato fries hot from the oven. Once all arrived we dined on Spinach strawberry salad, pork tenderloin, cheesy grits, warm biscuits and jam and watermelon. Following dinner we played a few rounds of bingo and finished the night off with rich creamy banana pudding. Then we sent our guests home with a jar of strawberry freezer jam. It was a fun night.

Supper Club Setup

2011-05-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for Supper Club at my home tomorrow. Our theme is Southern Comfort Food. Should be a good time. (Mom here's some pictures as you requested.)

Party Favor, strawberry freezer jam.

Cowboy Cupcake Toppers

2011-03-14T09:51:00.000-07:00

We're headed to Utah this week and celebrating Jonah's 1st birthday there. The theme has been based on these darling cowboy cupcake toppers that I found here. I just printed them and put them together. I can't wait to put them on the cupcakes. So fun.

Prepping for Jonah's 1st Birthday Party

2011-02-22T12:29:00.000-08:00

My mom and I are having fun prepping for Jonah's 1st birthday party. Today I made this fabric bunting banner. I used yellow biased tape and I had oilcloth from this project. I found a template here. Super Easy.

Valentine Letter Chairback

2011-02-01T16:14:00.000-08:00

I attempted to make a chairback last Valentine's but it didn't fit on the chair when I was done. This year I tried again and I really like how it turned out. I was inspired by this tutorial. We have been having fun putting Valentines, love notes and candy in this for each other. I'll eventually make one for each of us. (I may pull these out for Christmas too.) Here's the first...

Chore Chart

2011-02-01T14:31:00.000-08:00

I found a really cute magnetic chore chart on Etsy and wanted to make something similiar for my three year old. I found a magnetic board in the clearance section at Hobby Lobby and ordered chore chart rubber stamps off Ebay. My friend let me use her Cricket to print the vinyl lettering. I didn't really save any money but it gave me a project to do.

Second basket of produce

2011-01-25T06:47:00.000-08:00

Here's the second basket of produce we got from Bountiful Basket food co-op. We are loving the variety of fruits and veggies we get.

Bountiful Baskets

2011-01-08T09:23:00.001-08:00

We joined a food co-op called Bountiful Baskets. Today was our first pick up and here's what we got for $16.50:

We are quite pleased and looking forward to using them again. Check out to see if they have one in your area. They told us most of our food came from local Texas growers.

Blueberry - Lemon Pancakes

2010-11-14T08:29:00.000-08:00

A recipe found in San Bernardino 4th ward cookbook Cooking With Love from 1989.

Blueberry - Lemon Pancakes from Marilyn Willis
1 cup flour
2 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda

Combine above, then add:
1 beaten egg
1/2c. milk
1/2c. yogurt
1 tsp. lemon juice
2 tbsp. oil
Use 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons blueberries on each.

Dan and I used Fage greek yogurt for the yogurt and used the blueberry compote that comes with the Fage yogurt on top of our pancakes. These pancakes were so fluffy and tasted so good.

We even subsituted soy milk for milk and raspberry soy yogurt for yogurt in the recipe for Jake who has a milk allergy and they were just as yummy.

Monster Party Preview

2010-11-13T12:09:00.001-08:00

Jake's 3rd birthday party. Jake requested a monster party weeks ago before we knew we were buying a house and moving. We thought about not doing it since we just moved two weeks ago but we didn't want to disappoint him. Here's a preview of the party.

Moving box - we cut a hole in the mouth for a Monster bean bag toss. (Drawing done by Grandma Black while visiting a few weeks ago. Painted by Jake and mom)

Oriental trading - Monster Mask Kits
Michael's - Monster 3D puzzles. Party favor with note Thanks for coming.

Storytime - Tickle Monster and Go Away Big Green Monster

Oriental trading - cheapy pinata with monster taped on front.
Firehouse Subs, chips, Oreo's, Red vines, and apple juice boxes for lunch
Diary free cupcakes made for Jake by a good friend, Tiffany Hodson.

"Mustn't Spoil Your Frock Smock" Pattern

2010-09-19T20:08:00.000-07:00

How could I pass up a toddler smock pattern when I have two little boys that love to eat and seriously the name itself drew me in - "Mustn't Spoil Your Frock Smock"?

Danielle of "mysparkle" was kind enough to e-mail me a pdf copy of the pattern. I quickly scanned the pattern for needed supplies. I had heard of oilcloth but never seen or used it before. I picked some up at a quaint fabric shop in Dallas called City Craft. They have a variety of types and prints. The "boyish" options were very limited. I asked Jake to pick which color and he chose the blue check.

The pdf pattern was easy to print off and assembled perfectly. The instructions are well written and extremely easy to follow. I decided to just make the pattern in the original sizing. My little guy is almost three and he is tall for his age and the smock still covered his torso. The sleeves were a tad short. I'll lengthen it next time as the instructions recommended for older children. I deviated slightly from the pattern in that I used cotton double fold biased tape instead of creating my own from the oilcloth. I have only used biased tape three times in my short sewing career and I find it extremely difficult to keep the tape smooth around curved edges. I had to unpick it several times and redo it. In the end I really liked the way the biased tape gave the smock a nice finished look. Next time I will try using the oilcloth for the trim because I fear the cotton will stain easily.

This smock is very versatile. I imagine we will use the smock for painting and other such art projects as well as for messy spaghetti dinners. Looking forward to less laundry with this full coverage smock. Thanks Danielle!

To get your own copy of the pattern shop Danielle's Etsy shop here.

Fried Zucchini

2010-08-24T08:56:00.001-07:00

The other night we had a summer vegetable dinner. One of the items on the menu was fried zucchini. The recipe is found here. It was easy and delicious. We dipped them in homemade Ranch Dressing. Hmmm

A few favorite baby items

2010-07-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

Miracle Blanket
Aden + Anais
Sophie Giraffe

Pom Poms

2010-07-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

Helping out with a bridal shower. These cute pom poms plus many more will be used over the food table, etc. Thanks Martha...

Blankets for Baby Boy

2010-03-12T14:06:00.000-08:00

I've been sewing like crazy to get some things made for our "Baby Boy" due within the next month. Here are two blankets. I used this tutorial here to learn how to do Satin binding for the first blanket and the idea of the second blanket pattern.

I Spy Bags

2010-03-10T18:27:00.000-08:00

I jumped on the band wagon and made some "I Spy" bags. There are a lot of tutorials on the internet. I found this one helpful. I modified the measurements a bit and used cotton fabric instead of fleece. I am still trying to figure out bias tape...tricky stuff.

Random notions from around the house to fill the first bag.

This one has only the letters of the alphabet in it.

Quilt Top for Baby Boy

2010-02-26T21:50:00.001-08:00

I love being married to a math wiz. He did all the measurements for this quilt top. He busted out the trig to make sure the seam allowances would be correct. (The triangles had his brain humming.) Who knew that baby boy#2 would have his quilt done before Jacob's. I never did finish Jake's and now I hate the fabric I chose. Someday I might pull it out and finish it. I've learned my lesson... use large squares and a simple pattern design. (Blanket made from leftover scrap pieces.)

Seat Cushion

2010-02-26T10:56:00.000-08:00

Why I ever thought this project was a good one... it was very difficult. It took me three days because I kept stopping in fits of frustration. I measured very carefully and made templates but still had issues. First the side band was too short for the seat top and bottom pieces. I let out the band but it was still too shortl. So, I cut some fabric off the top and bottom cushion pieces and redid the band piece but then the band was too long. By this point I didn't care anymore so there is a ripple in the back of the cushion because the band was still slightly too long. I'm hoping the next three cushions turn out better than the first.

Hobo Sack

2010-02-11T16:34:00.000-08:00

There is a great tutorial here for this hobo sack. I changed it up a bit by using two fabrics and stenciling on the front. I plan to make other bags for other toys. It should be a great way to help Jake learn to spell words and organize his toys. Don't look to close at the top stitch at the top of the bag, my bobbin was giving me fits and I had already picked the stitch out once and I wasn't going to do it again today. Maybe tomorrow I'll fix it so it looks better. Until then here it is...

Giraffe Book Tote

2010-01-28T11:39:00.001-08:00

I decided to make Jake a library book bag. I whipped up a canvas tote and stenciled a giraffe on it using the freezer paper technique. Super easy and fun to pass the time when Jake sleeps.

Freezer Paper Stencil

2010-01-27T10:13:00.000-08:00

Months ago my sister-in-law posted about freezer paper stencils. I've been wanting to try it and I finally did. This was a fun and easy project. There is a great tutorial here.

In Preparation for Valentine's Day

2010-01-20T06:58:00.000-08:00

While eating my cereal this morning I saw this cute card idea here. I had all the materials so I decided to make cards that Jake could color and send out to family. He was very excited to color.

Zipper Pouch

2010-01-11T12:08:00.000-08:00

In my quest to learn to sew better and add more variety to my projects I attempted to make a zipper pouch. Zippers have always intimidated me. I found this tutorial here very helpful. I am happy to report I did it! Now I have a place to put wipes, diapers and a changing pad for our little guy coming.

Dan built me a sewing station in our family room so I don't have to use the kitchen table anymore. Yay!

Neglecto Swing

2010-01-06T21:32:00.000-08:00

One baby item that we did not get when Jake was born was a swing or better know as the "neglecto" swing by my older brother Mike. We have since been given a nice swing however, the cover was pretty gross and lets be honest, ugly. So, I decided to try my hand at making a new cover. I was inspired by two tutorials. One on making a highchair cover here and one on sewing with biased tape here.

Boy Burp Cloths

2010-01-06T09:28:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I made my sister some decorative edged handtowels from Amy Butler's sewing book. Later I saw my friend Danielle had used this same concept on cloth diapers for burp cloths... ingenious!

More Christmas Goodies

2009-12-21T11:03:00.001-08:00

Cake Balls as seen on Bakerella:
Red Velvet Cake Balls
1 box red velvet cake mix (cook as directed on box for 13 X 9 cake)
1 can cream cheese frosting (16 oz.)
1 package chocolate bark (regular or white chocolate)
wax paper

1. After cake is cooked and cooled completely, crumble into large bowl.
2. Mix thoroughly with 1 can cream cheese frosting. (It may be easier to use fingers to mix together, but be warned it will get messy.)
3. Roll mixture into quarter size balls and lay on cookie sheet. (Should make 45-50. You can get even more if you use a mini ice cream scooper, but I like to hand roll them.)
4. Chill for several hours. (You can speed this up by putting in the freezer.)
5. Melt chocolate in microwave per directions on package.
6. Roll balls in chocolate and lay on wax paper until firm. (Use a spoon to dip and roll in chocolate and then tap off extra.)

I also only melt a few pieces of chocolate bark at a time because it starts to cool and thicken. It’s easier to work with when it’s hot.

Dairy-free Sugar Cookies
From Unknown
1 1/2c Shortening
2c granulated sugar
4 eggs
2tsp vanilla
2tsp baking powder
1tsp salt
5c flour
Cream shortening, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Add dry ingredients. Place on greased cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes at 350 degrees, just until they are barely done.

Best Gingersnaps Ever
Leslie Moss
2 1/4 cups Margarine, softened
3 cups sugar
3 eggs
3/4 cup molasses
6 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
2 1/2 tsp ground cloves
3 tsp ginger
3 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
melted white chocolate
Mix margarine, sugar, eggs and molassess.
Cream together then add the rest of the
ingredients.
Roll into balls and roll balls in sugar.
Bake 8-10 minutes at 350 °F.
Cool cookies on wax paper.
Dip half of cookie into melted white
chocolate.

Peppermint Meltaways

2009-12-08T06:45:00.000-08:00

1c butter, softened
1/2c. powdered sugar
1/2tsp. peppermint extract
1 1/4c. flour
1/2c. cornstarch

Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in extract. Combine flour and cornstarch; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
Shape into 1 inch balls. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350degrees for 10-12 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Frosting:

2 Tbsp butter, softened
1 1/2c. powdered sugar
2 Tbsp milk
1/4tsp. peppermint extract
1/2 c. crushed peppermint candies or canes

Beat butter until fluffy. Add the sugar, milk, peppermint extract. Beat until smooth. Spread over cooled cookies; sprinkle with crushed candies.

Christmas Gift One Complete

2009-11-02T19:30:00.001-08:00

I have several nieces that are into pretending right now. I decided that it would be fun to make some of their gifts this year. There are several websites with great felt food ideas here and here. The cheese crackers were my little addition along with changing the Lays chip bag to a Ruffels chip bag.

Maternity Pants

2009-10-17T05:46:00.000-07:00

So, this second pregnancy has been a bit different. My clothes are not fitting well and I'm only 15 weeks along. I decided to attempt to make some maternity pants from this tutorial. I took two pairs of jeans that I haven't worn since Dan and I were dating (I was skinner back then). The first pair I did were already low-rise and when I followed the tutorial to cut below the zipper I wished I had not cut that low. On the second pair I cut mid zipper and liked how they fit better. Also, the first pair I didn't make the waist band tight enough, it's a bit lose. I'll be ripping that band out and re-doing it. Overall I'm very please with my homemade cheap maternity jeans. Comfy. I also did 12 inch bands folded in half. I might make the band 14 inches next time. It really just depends on the jeans and where they fit to begin with around the waist/hip area.

Craft Fair

2009-10-13T09:39:00.001-07:00

A woman from my church asked me if I wanted to make some bibs for a craft fair she is holding at her home. I was a little reluctant because I've never sold anything I've made. I decided it was a good reason to use up fabric scraps I have just sitting around. Plus, I can just use whatever bibs don't sell for my next little one or give them as gifts. It's a win win situation and I may just make a few bucks. I'm not sure what price I should charge per bib. I got on etsy and most are between $6-$10. I thought I'd charge $6 per bib or 2 for $10. Is that high, any suggestions???

Here are a few bibs I've made so far and a changing pad.

Bottling

2009-09-20T18:56:00.001-07:00

There is just something pretty about fresh produce bottled sitting on a pantry shelf. A friend came over and helped bottle salsa. My sister came to town and helped bottle peached. Dan helped me bottle pears and peach jam. We are feeling very productive around here. I love walking into my pantry and seeing our hard work sitting their. It won't last long around here. We are eating it fast. Dan's going to help me bottle more salsa this week. How many men are willing to spend time in the kitchen bottling salsa with their wives? I'm quite lucky and I like it.

My sister got sick of me calling her about waterbath times that she bought me Blue Book 100th Anniversary Edition - guide to preserving. Thanks Candice!

1st Attempt at Decorative Edge on a Burp Cloth

2009-09-03T08:58:00.000-07:00

I may eventually get to adding the measurements and instructions for this but for now...only pics. I have more important things to do. Like hanging with my little one.

Cheesecake Attempt

2009-08-27T09:49:00.000-07:00

I've made several goodies in my life but somehow I've never made cheesecake. I called my good friend Suzanne and told her that I needed her recipe. (She used to own a bakery in DC and they specialized in cheesecakes.) She spouted the recipe off the top of her head. I think she has made it a few times. The best advice she gave me was when adding the eggs one at a time not to beat them too much, otherwise the cheesecake will be more cake-like than creamy. Just incorporate the egg.

I decided to make muffin sized cheesecakes and then mini-muffin sized cheesecakes. Dan and I agree the mini are perfect for popping. Cheesecake is rich and the mini was a perfect size to appease our sweet tooth's.

Market Bag

2009-08-27T09:34:00.000-07:00

I started this project a couple of weeks ago and I finally pulled it out and finished it. One more incomplete project done. I have never made a reversible bag so I thought I'd start with this simple market bag.

Bird Onesie

2009-07-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

I found a cute bird on a shirt and wanted to try duplicate it on a onesie. I think I picked a design with too many curves. I am tempted to pick out the stitching and try again but... that would be stupid. Who cares if the stitching isn't even right? Hmmm... I may redo this one. The pattern is too cute not to get the edging perfect. It sure took a while to do it the first time though.

My friend did a great tutorial on appliques here.

Hobo Bag

2009-07-09T06:35:00.000-07:00

I was needing a creative outlet the other day and the best fix is usually sewing an easy bag. I like bags because they are something I actually use and can be completed within a few hours.

Fabric Book Marks

2009-07-03T21:28:00.000-07:00

I'm teaching a lesson in RS on scripture study this Sunday. I decided to copy my friend Danielle's idea for fabric book marks here.

Measurements: Roughly 2 1/8" X 6 1/8"

Rocket Pops

2009-07-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

I attempted to make Cupcake pops, as seen on Bakerella. However, my cookie cutter was not small enough so I just made cake pops. Check out cake pops here.

We're invited to a Fourth of July BBQ and these are going with us.

Last Pay It Forward Bag

2009-06-30T19:31:00.000-07:00

I finally finished my last "pay it forward" project. I chose a cute clutch bag. To learn about the Buttercup Bag go here.

This bag is headed to Denver. Enjoy Rach!

Little Black Dress...Shade Clothing

2009-06-24T13:07:00.001-07:00

I just found a cute black dress on sale here. Can't wait for mine in the mail. You can never have too many black dresses.

Cake Slice Boxes

2009-06-11T20:53:00.000-07:00

People are so creative. I found this cute cake slice box here.

I wanted to make the largest pattern slice but our printer doesn't hold 12X12 sheets of paper so Dan did some make shift printing and taped the pattern together for me. How would I survive without my cute hubby doing all my measurements for my projects? He's such a good guy, he even went to Michael's Craft store the other day for me. Seriously, I am so lucky.

Baby Jane Sun Bonnet

2009-06-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

My former neighbor and friend Danielle Wilson has created the most adorable bonnet ever. Check out her Etsy shop here to purchase the pattern for this bonnet.(I just bought mine!)
http://mysparkle.blogspot.com/2009/06/bonnet-give-away.html

Jake's Spot

2009-06-06T18:41:00.000-07:00

Dan and I created a fun place to put Jake's artwork. We used a TV wood crate lid from our move, two pieces of scrapbook paper, Mod podge, two pieces of cork board and some paint. Dan did all the measurements and cutting and I painted and assembled. We're going to hang it above Jake's table to display all his creations.

Felt Play Food

2009-05-29T05:58:00.000-07:00

I was lurking blogs and found some darling felt food. I decided that I wanted to try to make some too for Jake and I to pretend with together. So far, sugar cookies, glazed donuts, bacon and eggs are done. I am going to making a bologne sandwich with chips next. So fun.

Michelle-style Baked Macaroni

2009-05-28T05:52:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, I sat down to the computer to figure out what I could make with limited ingredients. I hadn't been grocery shopping and needed to find a recipe that I could spice up regular pasta with. This recipe was originally American-style Baked Ziti. I didn't have Ziti so I substituted macaroni. I also substituted Parmigiano with Parmesan, Italian flavored bread crumbs for plain, fresh tomatoes with canned, etc. If I were to make this again I would double the white sauce recipe because I thought the pasta was a little dry after baking it in the oven. I would also shorten the bake time from 30 to 15 minutes.
Michelle-style Baked Macaroni

1 box (1lb) Elbow pasta
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 cups milk
1 can diced tomatoes
1/2 c Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 c bread crumbs
1 tbsp olive oil
dried basil

Cook elbow pasta as directed; drain and set aside
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour, salt, pepper and oregano; cook 1 minute or until bubbly. Gradually stir in milk. Cook 2-3 minutes or until thickened, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; set aside.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Combine bread crumbs and olive oil in a small bowl and set aside.
Stir together pasta, white sauce, chopped can of tomatoes, cheese in a large bowl. Place pasta mixture in a baking dish; sprinkle with bread crumbs and dried basil.
Bake for 15 minutes.

If interested in the original recipe:
http://www.barillaus.com/recipes/Americanstyle_Baked_Ziti.aspx

2nd Attempt

2009-05-22T11:26:00.000-07:00

So, I gathered more fabric remnants and made a 2nd diaper wipe carrier. This one is slightly different - quilted top, squared flap, thinner fusible fleece and I finished the edges differently. Overall, I'm enjoying just being creative. It's fun to see something and make it from scratch. Now, I just need to finish a zillion other projects that I started and never finished. I sometimes lose interest in something I'm working on and never return. Anyone else like that?

Diaper and Wipes Carrier

2009-05-21T12:16:00.000-07:00

Without fail Jake always needs a diaper change during Sacrament meeting at church. Dan usually takes Jake out and has been carrying a diaper and wipes with him for everyone to see what he's going to do. So, I decided to make a diaper and wipes sack. I've seen several versions on Etsy and I decided to make one myself. This is what I ended up with. Not bad for my first attempt.

Notebook Holder

2009-05-20T09:05:00.000-07:00

Our next door neighbor girl turns 10 tomorrow. She loves to write songs so I made her a place to put her notebook and pen. Her favorite color is yellow. Is this a lame gift?

Green Chili Pork

2009-05-04T18:38:00.001-07:00

Green Chili Pork

1 lb. Pork Loin
1/2 Onion - finely diced
7 oz. Can diced green chilies
1/2 c. water
1 Tbsp Jalapenos - finely diced
Salt and Pepper

Place water, pork loin, finely diced onion, green chilies, and jalapenos in crock pot. Cook low for 6 hours. Shred pork when done. Great filling for tacos, enchiladas, burritos or tamales.

We'll be using this for our Cinco De Mayo tacos tomorrow night.

All Rolled Up Cinnamon French Toast

2009-05-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

All Rolled Up Cinnamon French Toast

Make Candice's White Bread With A Twist - sliced

Eggs

Milk

Cinnamon

Sugar and Cinnamon Mixture

Beat eggs with milk and lots of cinnamon in a shallow dish. Coat sliced bread on both sides with egg mixture. Place 2-3 Tbsp butter and several spoonfuls of the cinnamon and sugar mixture in a frying pan. Mix and let caramelize. Place coated bread in hot frying pan and fry until golden brown on both sides.

ps. I will write down exact measurements next time I make this.

Candice's White Bread Recipe With A Twist

2009-05-03T19:24:00.000-07:00

Candice's White Bread Recipe With A Twist
Makes 2 Loaves

2 cups hot water
4 tsp yeast
6 tbsp butter
1/2 c sugar
2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
5-6 cups flour, add more flour as needed

Combine water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until bubbly. Add salt, butter, cinnamon and flour. Knead for 10 minutes or until it cleans the sides of the bowl. Cover and let rise 1 hour. Divide dough into two. Roll out each piece of dough onto lightly floured surface in a large rectangle. Spread each dough piece with 1Tbsp butter and sprinkle with 3-4 Tbsp sugar and 2 tsp cinnamon. Beginning at one short edge of rectangle roll up dough. Place dough in greased loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.

Dustin' off the ol' machine

2009-04-17T14:56:00.001-07:00

I pulled out and dusted off my sewing machine today. I wanted to dabble in making appliques. I've decided that they're not too hard to make and apply but finishing the edges isn't easy.

Chicken Taco Mixture

2009-04-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

Chicken Taco Mixture
6-8 Chicken Tenders
1 7oz can chopped green chilies
1/2 Onion - chopped
1 can diced tomatoes - drained
1 can beans of choice - drained
1/2 tsp salt and pepper
1/2 c water

Combine ingredients in a crockpot. Cook low 6 hrs. Shred chicken when fully cooked. Salt and pepper to taste. Spoon a big glob onto a tortilla top with cheese, lettuce, guacamole, salsa and sour cream.

Sunburst Cake

2009-04-17T14:22:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make Pig Lickin' Good Cake for Easter but I didn't have all the ingredients so I changed the recipe and named it Sunburst Cake.

Sunburst Cake

1 Lemon cake mix

1/4 cup sugar

4 eggs

3/4 cup oil

1-10 oz. can of mandarin oranges with juice

Combine all ingredients.

Pour into 9X13 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until done. Let cool and top with frosting.

Frosting:

Fresh whipped cream

Top with strawberry

Second Pay it Forward Bag

2009-02-26T10:58:00.000-08:00

Leslie I finally finished your bag this morning during Jake's nap. I'll bring it over later. Enjoy.

Pay it Forward Bag

2009-02-25T07:35:00.001-08:00

I just made my first pay it forward bag. This one is going to my cousin Jenny in Texas. It's a large clutch bag. Enjoy Jenny! (Leslie yours is next, however, I'm changing it a bit.)

Cream Puffs

2009-01-25T13:29:00.000-08:00

Better Homes and Gardens, Aniversary Edition
Cream Puffs

1 cup Water
1/2 cup Butter
1/8 tsp Salt
1 cup All-purpose Flour
4 Eggs
3 cups whipped Cream, Pudding or Ice Cream

In a medium saucepan combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to boiling. Add flour all at once, stirring vigorously. Cook and stir until mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat for 10 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well with a wooden spoon after each addition.

Drop 12 heaping tablespoons of dough onto a greased baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 25-35 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer cream puffs to a wire rack; cool.

Cut tops from puffs. Fill with pudding, whipped cream, ice cream.

Easy Navajo Tacos

2009-01-22T19:56:00.001-08:00

Easy Navajo Tacos

Onion - chopped
1/2 - 1 lb Hamburger meat
2 cans Chili Beans in sauce
Shredded Cheese
Lettuce
Sour Cream
Olives
Salsa
Guacamole
Rhodes Roll Dough

Saute onions with hamburger meat. Add two cans of chili beans with sauce. Bake or deep fry Rhodes rolls. (Follow the instructions on the package for scones or pizza.) If you're feeling ambitious make homemade bread dough. Top bread with chili and favorite toppings.

Breakfast Casserole

2008-12-27T10:49:00.000-08:00

For Christmas morning brunch I made a breakfast casserole. It was so nice to make it the day before and just pop it in the oven Christmas morning. Delicious!

Sally's Breakfast Casserole
1 lb. sausage
8-10 slices of white bread - cubed
1 cup milk
6 eggs
1/2 - 1 cube butter - melted
salt and pepper to taste
Grated Cheddar cheese
1 can Evaporated milk
1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup

Brown sausage, cube bread, combine milk, eggs, butter, and salt pepper in a bowl. In a 9X13 baking dish layer cubed bread, sausage, and egg mixture. Cover and set overnight in refrigerator. Next morning combine evaporated milk and mushroom soup. Pour mixture over top of casserole and grate cheese on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes.

Candice's Sticky Bun Bites

2008-12-26T14:38:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve I decided to make my sisters recipe for Sticky Bun Bites, however, I put them in a bundt pan to make it more festive. It was delicious! We will be doing this every Christmas Eve. We enjoyed these tasty treats while watching A Christmas Carol. (I only made half the recipe.)

Candice’s Sticky Bun Bites
12 Rhodes rolls, microwave thaw for 1 min. 15 sec. (turn halfway through), cut into 48 pieces
6 Tbsp. butter, melted
¾ c. brown sugar, unpacked
2 tsp. cinnamon
Melt butter, set aside. Combine brown sugar and cinnamon, set aside.
Prepare caramel sauce.
Caramel Sauce:
1 c. brown sugar, packed
½ c. butter
¼ c. Karo syrup
1 c. pecans, chopped (optional)
Bring sugar and butter to a boil. Immediately remove from heat and add Karo syrup. Pour into an ungreased 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle on pecans. Set aside.
Dip each piece of roll dough in melted butter and roll in cinnamon/sugar mixture. Place in baking dish on top of caramel. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. Remove plastic wrap and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Invert onto a serving platter and let sit for a minute to let the caramel sauce drip over rolls. Serve warm.

Fluffy French Toast

2008-12-23T11:31:00.000-08:00

Mine didn't turn out so fluffy because I didn't use Texas toast...

4 Eggs
2 cups Milk
2 tsp. Vanilla
3 cups Bisquick
4 tsp. Sugar
Cinnamon (optional)
1 Loaf Texas Toast
Crisco for frying

Beat together eggs, milk, and vanilla. Add Bisquick, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth. Melt Crisco in a heavy frying pan until at least ½ inch deep. Dip toast slices in batter and deep fry until golden brown on both sides. Place on a rack or paper towels to drain. Serve with powdered sugar, syrup, fruit, etc. Enjoy!

Christmas Goodie Making

2008-12-01T14:01:00.000-08:00

My sister and I baked all morning and put together our Christmas goodie plates. I know it's early but it was the only day we could get together this month to do it. It is nice to have it done and it just means everyone will get to start early on eating yummy Christmas goodies.

Decorating for the holidays...

2008-11-25T10:01:00.000-08:00

This morning Jake and I started our Christmas decorating while listening to Bing Crosby's White Christmas. Yes, I'm one of those people that listen to Christmas music way before Thanksgiving. Dan teases me but I know he loves watching me get excited for the holidays. I love the hunt to find or make the perfect gift for someone. It is so hard for me to keep a secret once I've found the gift. Poor Dan he knows most of his gifts already. I love to wrap the perfect gift in beautiful wrapping paper with beautiful wired ribbon. Half the fun of giving a gift is the wrapping of it. I love the scent of a real pine tree decorated with Christmas balls grouped together with white tinkle lights. I always look forward to buttery sugar cookies decorated with frosting and sprinkles. (I'm already feeling fat just thinking of all the goodies I'm going to enjoy this season!) Every year I have to get my fix of Christmas movies - White Christmas, The Bishop's Wife, Miracle of 34th Street, The Grinch, It's a Wonderful Life, etc. Each year Dan has given me a Christmas themed movie in my stocking and I'm hoping he keeps the tradition going. We'll be getting our tree after Thanksgiving and I can't wait to decorate it. (We're debating on whether to get an artificial or real tree this year with Jake around. We're worried he's going to eat the pine needles and pull the decorations off. So we'll see...)

Stocking Stuffer's

2008-11-20T13:44:00.000-08:00

Stocking stuffer's for Jake's stocking this Christmas. shhhh, don't tell...
Here's a great website with a pattern and instructions: http://www.purlbee.com/fabric-beach-balls/

Jammie Pants

2008-11-10T16:36:00.001-08:00

JoAnn's Fabric had their Simplicity patterns 5 for $5, so I bought a few patterns. One of them was a pattern for infant jammies. I found some fun Christmas fannel and made Jake some jammie pants. They turned out so cute and it was so easy I think I'll make him some more.

Caramel Apples

2008-10-27T20:02:00.001-07:00

Apple of choice - Granny Smith is a good tart one.
Sticks
Caramel
Toppings of choice - ie. white chocolate with cinnamon and sugar, heath bits, nuts, etc.

Caramel: Grandma Carver's recipe

2 cups sugar

Pinch of salt

2 cups light corn syrup

1/2 cup butter - sliced in bits

1 2/3 cup canned milk

1 tsp vanilla or 2 Tbsp rum flavoring

Boil together in a pot sugar, salt, and corn syrup, stirring, until it reaches 238 degrees. Add butter and milk gradually so that mixture doesn't stop boiling at any time. Cook to soft ball stage. Stir constantly because mixture sticks easily. Add flavoring. Dip apples and top with favorite toppings or just leave plain. Delicious! (This is a great recipe for caramel corn too.)

Black Bean Salsa

2008-10-27T07:22:00.000-07:00

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
2-3 tomatoes, chopped
2 limes, juiced
1 pkt. Italian dressing mix
2 Tbsp water
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1/2 onion, chopped
cilantro, chopped to taste
1/4 cup oil
1/4 cup vinegar

Combine all ingredients. Serve with tortilla chips.

Kitchen Towels

2008-10-24T10:13:00.000-07:00

I'm lovin' my Amy Butler sewing books. There are so many cool projects and they are pretty simply. Here are some fun decorative kitchen towels I just made for my sister as a house warming gift. (Surprise Candice, I hope they match your new kitchen.)

Mock Turkey Pomodoro

2008-10-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite sandwiches from Hagermann's Bakehouse. I wanted to see if I could duplicate it. I purchased their cranberry jalepeno jelly and a loaf of bread. Everything else I was able to find at the grocery store.
Mock Turkey Pomodoro
"Hagermann's Bakehouse"

Bread of choice
Cranberry jalepeno jelly
Thinly sliced Turkey Deli Meat
Thinly sliced cucumbers
Havarti Cheese slices
Roman Lettuce
Roasted tomatoes - found in grocery store deli's, ie. Harmon's.

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

2008-10-20T08:25:00.000-07:00

Dan made this potato casserole dish to take to his parent's family Sunday dinner. It was really good and loaded with lots of yummy fatty foods. Enjoy!

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

"SouthernLiving - easy entertaining"

8 medium-size baking potatoes (4 pounds)

2 cups shredded Cheddar Cheese, divided

1 (16 oz) container of sour cream

1 (8oz) package cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup butter, melted

2 cloves garlic minced - (we used 1/2 tsp minced garlic and thought it strong. Use 1/4tsp)

1 tbsp chopped fresh chives

1 1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

6 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled

4 green onions, chopped

Bake potatoes. Peel potatoes, and coarsely mash pulp with a potato masher. Stir in 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, sour cream, and next 7 ingredients. Spoon into a lightly greased 13 X 9 baking dish.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese, bacon and green onions. Yield: 8 servings.

Pasta Salad

2008-10-19T19:41:00.000-07:00

Pasta Salad

12 oz Small Shell Pasta

1-1 1/2 cups ranch dressing - I prefer Hidden Valley Ranch, made from a packet

1 cup frozen peas

1/2 cup shredded carrots

1 cup diced tomatoes

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Real Bacon Bits

Combine all ingredients.

Mock Cafe Rio Salad

2008-10-19T10:41:00.001-07:00

Uncooked tortillas
Cheese
Black Beans
Tomatoes
Onions
Lettuce

Fry tortilla and melt cheese on one side. Top with warm black beans, lettuce, and pico de gallo. Drizzle creamy cilantro dressing on top.

Candice's Creamy Cilantro Dressing:
1 C. Mayonnaise
1 pkt. Hidden Valley Ranch dressing
1 c. cilantro, loosely packed
1/4-1/2 fresh jalapeno, chopped
1/2 c. Herdez Salsa Verde
1/4 tsp. crushed garlic
Combine all ingredients and puree. Chill.

Gingersnaps

2008-10-16T22:00:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love the smell of ginger and cloves? It just smells like fall to me.

Gingersnaps
3/4 cup shortening
1 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup molasses
2 1/4 cup flour
2 tsp soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp cloves
1/4 tsp salt
Granulated sugar

Mix shortening, brown sugar, egg and molasses. Blend in remaining ingredients except the granulated sugar. Cover and chill for 1 hour.

Heat oven to 375. Shape dough into round balls. Dip tops in granulated sugar. Place balls, sugared side up, on lightly greased baking sheet. Bake 10-12 minutes.

Easy Chicken Parmesan

2008-10-16T21:46:00.001-07:00

Chicken Tenders

Marinara of choice - fresh or bottled, if bottled spice it up with onions, garlic, basil, etc.

Pasta of choice

Mozerella cheese

Egg, beated

Seasoned Bread crumbs - Progresso Bread Crumbs Italian Style

Oil

Coat chicken with egg wash and dip both sides of chicken in bread crumbs. Fry chicken tender on both sides until chicken is completely cooked through. Place chicken on cookie sheet and sprinkle mozeralla cheese on top and broil until melted. Serve over pasta of choice and spoon on marinara.

Old Fashioned Oatmeal

2008-10-12T08:28:00.000-07:00

We woke up to a layer of snow on our neighborhood. To warm our insides we each had a bowl of oatmeal topped with our favorite toppings. Enjoy!

Oats
Water
Salt

Boil water and salt. Stir in oats. Cook about 5 minutes over medium heat. Just follow the instructions on the back of the Quaker Oats box.

Toppings:
Dan's favorite - ice cream and maple syrup
Michelle's favorite - brown sugar
Jake's favorite - peaches and cinnamon

Homemade Doughnuts

2008-10-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

Seriously, what could be better than homemade doughnuts and Stephen's Mint Truffle hot chocolate on a cool October night?

Homemade Doughnuts

"the I Do cookbook for the Bride & Groom"

1 Tbsp yeast

1 Tbsp sugar

1/4 cup warm water

2 eggs, beaten

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 cup shortening

1 cup hot tap water

3 1/2 cups flour

Glaze

In small bowl, sprinkle yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar over 1/4 cup warm water. Let sit until dissolved, about 5 minutes.

In mixing bowl, combine eggs, sugar, salt, shortening, and hot tap water. Cool to lukewarm.

Add yeast mixture and 2 cups flour. Beat 1 minute. Gradually add remaining 1 1/2 cups flour and mix well. Dough will be sticky. Flour hand and scoop dough into greased bowl. Cover with clean kitchen towel and let rise until double in size, about 1 hour.

Place dough on floured surface. Sprinkle top lightly with flour and gently pat to 1/2" thick. Cut with doughnut cutter (dip in flour with each cut).

Place doughnuts on greased and floured cookie sheets. Cover and let rise until very light, about 1 hour.

In fryer or saucepan, heat oil to 350 degrees. Place each doughnut carefully in the oil and fry each side until brown. Drain on paper towels.

While still hot, dip in glaze of choice and set on rack. Allow to stand until glaze is dry.

Makes 1 dozen.

Glaze:

2 cups powdered sugar

1/3 cup milk

1 tsp vanilla exract

Combine ingredients and mix until smooth. Dip each side of doughnut.

Chocolate Glaze:

1/2 cup butter

1/4 cup whole milk

1 Tbsp light corn syrup

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup chocolate chips

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

In saucepan, combine butter, milk, corn syrup and vanilla. Heat to melt butter. Add chocolate chips and whisk until melted. Turn off heat and add powdered sugar. Whisk until smooth. Keep warm. Dip top of warm doughnut in glaze.

Sugar Cookies

2008-10-07T21:01:00.000-07:00

We're feeling festive around here, so I used a pumpkin cookie cutter.

Elaine's Famous Sugar Cookies

1 cup butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1 cup salad oil

2 tsp. vanilla

4 1/2 cups flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. cream of tartar

1 tsp. salt

Cream butter and sugars; beat in eggs one at a time until light and fluffy. Beat in oil and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients and gradually add to sugar mixture, beating till well blended. Cover and chill several hours.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Roll out dough on lightly floured surface. Use your favorite cookie cutters. Refrigerate dough not being used. Place cookies on cookie sheets. Bake for 10 minutes till lightly browned. Frost with vanilla frosting.

New Conference Traditions

2008-10-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

We decided to bottle fresh salsa Saturday morning as we listened to General Conference. Dan has a greater appreciation for my salsa now after working along side me for 3 hours to make it. We enjoyed several plates of nachos with our delicious salsa piled on top.

Before the first session Dan made breakfast for us. One of his own creations, Pumpkin eye and Cat eye or better known to most as Camel's eye.

Doesn't it just feel like fall, I love this time of year.

Banana Nut Bread

2008-10-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

Banana Nut Bread

The Best of Williams-Sonoma Kitchen Library: Baking

2 1/2 cups white or wheat flour

2 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

2 cups sugar

2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 large)

4 eggs

1 cups chopped walnuts or pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease two medium loaf pans and dust with flour.

In a bowl mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until well blended. Beat in bananas and then eggs until completely mixed. (Mixture will be lumpy.) Stir in nuts. Add the flour mixture and stir until well blended.

Pour batter into loaf pans and bake for 40-60 minutes or until a toothpick that is inserted in the center of loaf comes out clean. Turn loafs onto a wire rack for cooling.

Lettuce Wraps

2008-10-02T14:53:00.001-07:00

4-6 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless, dice into very small pieces

Iceberg or Romaine Lettuce

1 8oz. can slice water chestnuts, diced into small pieces

1 cup onion, diced

2 Tbsp. bottled minced garlic

1 Tbsp. soy sauce

1/4 cup Hoisin Sauce

2 tsp. bottled minced ginger or 1/2 tsp. gound ginger

1 Tbsp. rice wine vinegar or red wine vinegar

2 tsp. Asian chili pepper sauce or 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

3/4 cup green onion, thinly sliced

2 tsp. Asian Sesame Oil

Combine garlic, soy sauce, Hoisin suace, ginger, vinegar and chili pepper sauce. Set aside. In a large skillet, stir fry chicken at high heat in a small amount of oil until done. Add chopped onion and continue to stir fry for a couple of minutes. Lower heat to medium high heat and add sauce mixture. Stir to blend and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes. Add chopped chestnuts and reduce heat to medium heat. Add green onion and sesame oil. Cook and stir untion the onions begin to wilt. Remove from heat and serve with crisp lettuce leaves.

*Beware your house will smell of garlic for a while.

One Costume Finished

2008-10-02T06:41:00.000-07:00

Growing up I don't remember putting much effort into my Halloween costumes. We use to buy the pastic masks and little plastic costumes from the grocery store. I'm not sure why I decided to do a family theme this year. Maybe it's because I have a little more time on my hands these days to be creative. My sister came to help me work on my Halloween Costume on Tuesday. I finally finished yesterday during one of Jake's naps. Now I just need to find some old overalls for Dan's costume as a scarecrow.

Grandma Carver's Potato Salad

2008-09-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

12 White potatoes, boiled with skins on until tender when poked with a fork, then peeled and chopped small
9 eggs, hard boiled and chopped small
1 bunch green onion, chopped
1 c. mayo, thinned with milk (or more if needed)
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients.

Halloween stuff

2008-09-25T19:38:00.000-07:00

I felt crafty so I started on my Halloween decorations and costume today. Can you guess who I'm going to be for Halloween?

For Christmas last year, Dan got me a subscription to Martha Stewart Living. I love it. There is always something fun and totally mindless to do from it. This cute pumpkin and other creatures were displayed hanging over a table of food for a party. I think I'll try hanging mine in my windows.

One Hour Dinner Rolls

2008-09-22T09:25:00.001-07:00

1 1/2 Cup Hot Water
1/4 Cup Powdered Milk
1/4 Cup Butter
3 Tbsp Sugar
1 Tbsp Yeast
1 Tsp Salt
4 Cup Flour
2 Tbsp Butter, Softened

Combine hot water, powdered milk, sugar, and 1/4 cup butter. Stir until butter melts and mixture is warm. Add yeast and salt, let dissolve until yeast reacts. Add flour and mix until combined. Let rise for 15 minutes. Grease muffin tins (12) with cooking spray. Roll out dough on floured surface into a rectangle and spread with softened 2 Tbsp butter. (If dough is sticky knead a little flour into it.) Fold dough in half lengthwise. Cut into strips and tie dough into a knot, tucking ends under and place in muffin tin. Let rise 15 minutes and bake at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

Cinnaburst French Toast

2008-09-19T18:22:00.001-07:00

Great Harvest Cinnaburst Loaf of Bread
Milk
Eggs
Cinnamon

Mix Milk, eggs, and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Dip sliced bread in egg mixture. Fry over medium heat. Drizzle warm homemade syrup on top.

Parenting

2008-09-16T14:29:00.000-07:00

If they only knew what they were in for...

This morning I had a short conversation with my mother about parenting. As I was in the shower I had an idea to create a blog about my parents and memories I have of them. I asked my siblings to post as well so we can get a good perspective on how our parents have impacted our lives. We owe so much to them. It will be fun to see how our relationships have changed over the years through stories. Each stage of life they are and have been there for us. We love you mom and dad... http://veaterkids.blogspot.com/

Scalloped Potatoes

2008-09-15T19:20:00.000-07:00

Tonight I made scalloped potatoes for part of Dan's birthday dinner. It's my great grandma Carver's recipe and I love them. I'm not sure if they are better than other recipes but they have a sentimental value for me.

10-12 medium sized potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
1 onion, diced small
Whipping cream or milk
Salt and Pepper
Flour

In a 9X13 pan layer potatoes, onions, salt and pepper, and sprinkle flour over entire layer. Repeat layering until potatoes are gone. Pour cream or milk into pan until it is just about to cover the top layer of potatoes. Place strips of bacon on the top layer of potatoes. Bake at 375 for about an 1 hour or until potatoes are soft. (Place 9X13 dish on a cookie sheet in oven for any spillage.) Let stand for 30 minutes. It will thicken as it cools.

Mint and Chip Ice Cream Cake

2008-09-15T09:55:00.000-07:00

Today's Dan's 29th birthday and he wanted an ice cream cake. I found a picture of a mint and chip ice cream cake that Cold Stone does for my inspiration.

Box of Devil's Food Cake

1 Gallon Mint and Chip Ice Cream (Smith's Premium Select Brand)

1 Pint of Whipping Cream - Beat cream, vanilla, and powdered sugar

Oreos

I baked two 9 inch round Devil's Food Cakes. Let them cool, wrapped them in plastic wrap and froze them. Take one 9 inch round and turned it top side down. Cut ice cream into 1-2 inches strips for layering on top of cake. (I pulled the gallon of ice cream out to thaw a little.) Placed second 9 inch round cake top side down on top of ice cream layer. Wrapped cake in plastic wrap and put back into freezer overnight. Frosted cake with whipped cream and decorated with crushed oreos.

Breakfast Burritos

2008-09-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

For breakfast Dan requested breakfast burritos.

Cook uncooked torillas in a frying pan until golden brown.

Saute onions

Beat eggs, water, salt and pepper in small bowl.

Add onions to egg mixture and cook over medium heat.

Pile egg mixture, cheese, salsa, sour cream, sausage, bacon, etc onto a torilla.

Pig Lickin' Good Cake

2008-09-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

I have a sweet tooth.

Yellow cake mix
1/4 cup sugar
4 eggs
3/4 cup oil
1 10oz can of mandarin oranges and juice
Combine all ingredients. Pour into 9X13 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until done. Let cool and top with frosting.

Frosting:
1 8oz can of crushed pineapple (drained)
1 8oz tub of cool whip
1 3oz box of instant vanilla pudding

Quiche

2008-09-13T18:58:00.000-07:00

I love quiche. It's one of my comfort foods. It's easy to make too, especially if you buy the crust like I did. It's better with a homemade crust but if you're short on time a store bought one will do.

Broccoli Quiche
9 inch Flaky Pie Crust - bake at 375 for 7 minutes, set aside
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup chopped onion - saute onion
1 1/2 cups steamed and chopped broccoli
4 eggs
2 cups of shredded cheese
1 cup whipping cream or half and half
Salt and pepper

Combine all ingredients minus 1 cup of cheese. Put one cup of cheese in the bottom of the pie crust and pour the remaining ingredients in pie crust. Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes. Let cool before serving.

Fabric Toy Ball

2008-09-11T12:08:00.001-07:00

Jacob was given three fabric toy balls. I wanted to make him some more because he loves them. I found a pattern on-line (http://www.pjb.com.au/jug/pdf/two_piece_65mm.pdf) which I enlarged to make a larger ball.

Bottled Salsa

2008-09-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

I went to my favorite local farm (The Rasmussen Farm in Draper) and picked up half a bushel of tomatoes to bottle fresh salsa.

50-60 tomatoes, peeled, seeded, chopped

3-4 green peppers, seeded - finely chop 2 and chop the other 1 or 2 in a processor

10 oz. canned mild green chilies

1 1/2 yellow onions, chopped fine in a processor

1 1/2 large sweet white onions, finely chopped

1/2 c. bottled jalapenos, chopped fine in a processor

5 Tbsp. salt

3 Tbsp. cider vinegar

1 Tbsp. crushed garlic

1 Tbsp. ground coriander seed

1 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

Combine all ingredients in a large stock pot. Bring to a boil and simmer for 35-45 minutes. Place in hot pint jars. Seal and process in a hot water bath for 20 minutes. Makes 12-15 pints.This is really good fresh salsa. Save some in the fridge before cooking to eat right away.

Peach Crisp

2008-09-07T09:49:00.000-07:00

1 cup flour
1 cup sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 egg
3/4 cup melted butter
1-2 quarts of fruit (add sugar to fruit if not naturally sweet)
*Add cinnamon to fruit if desired

Mix flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Add egg and mix. In 9x13 pan or ramekin pour fruit and top with flour/sugar mixture. Pour melted butter evenly over the top. Bake 375 for about 35-45 minutes till golden brown.