tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80065831093682981582024-03-05T12:00:27.115-08:00A Frugal Adventure and MoreA way to share about my small attempts to live a more frugal life and to learn from others. The "more" will include a variety of things like recipes, pictures, funny stories, home schooling ideas, and whatever else I might want to add.Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-1487330666008924532012-03-19T18:37:00.000-07:002012-03-19T18:37:31.147-07:00Free Regular Water Ice at Rita's Tomorrow (March 20th)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.jannorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/ritasitalianice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" id="il_fi" src="http://www.jannorris.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/ritasitalianice.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="200" /></a></div>Tomorrow (March 20th), is the first day of spring! Rita's is celebrating by offering a <a href="http://ritas.com/">FREE regular water ice to their customers.</a><br />
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Go out with your family and friends and enjoy this beautiful weather!!! I know we will. My oldest son has been reminding me since Saturday that Tuesday is <a href="http://ritas.com/">Rita's Day!</a>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-19261856408049473312012-03-13T18:24:00.001-07:002012-03-13T18:30:46.431-07:00Dr. Seuss Homeschool Co-Op and PartyTwo weeks ago, I hosted a very fun homeschool co-op (for kids 7 and under) with two other families to celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday. I found so many great ideas online that helped make it such a fun event for the kids. We read three Dr. Seuss' books and did some lessons and activities to go along with the books.<br />
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After welcoming the students and talking about the date (March 2nd) and the significance of it (his birthday) we did a brief history lesson about Dr. Seuss. I found an <a href="http://www.seussville.com/#/author">excellent biography</a> at Seussville.com, a site by Random House, dedicated to everything Dr. Seuss. We talked about when he was born (how many years ago that was), his first book, how he got his name, when his most popular books were published, etc. It was really interesting. <br />
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We then did our Bible lesson/devotional using the book, "Oh, The Places You'll Go."<br />
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<table cellspacing="5" class="infobox" style="background-color: #f9f9f9; border-bottom-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(170, 170, 170); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; clear: right; color: black; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.5em; padding-bottom: 0.2em; padding-left: 0.2em; padding-right: 0.2em; padding-top: 0.2em; text-align: center; width: 20em;"><tbody>
<tr class=""><td class="" colspan="2" style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"><a class="image" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Oh,_the_Places_You%27ll_Go.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #0645ad; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="Oh, the Places You'll Go.jpg" height="277" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/0/07/Oh%2C_the_Places_You%27ll_Go.jpg/200px-Oh%2C_the_Places_You%27ll_Go.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; vertical-align: middle;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>And, I used an idea from, <a href="http://www.2teachingmommies.com/2011/02/oh-plans-i-have-for-you.html">2 Teaching Mommies</a>, to use this book to go along with the verse, Jeremiah 29:11,<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.esvbible.org/Jeremiah+29.11/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="verse-num" id="v24029011-1" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.7em; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 0.15em; vertical-align: top;">11 </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="cursor: pointer; font-size: 0.6em; line-height: 1.5em; outline-color: initial; outline-width: initial; padding-left: 0.1em; vertical-align: top;"><b>w</b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">For I know the plans I have for you, declares the</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">, plans for welfare</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="footnote" style="font-size: 0.7em; padding-left: 0.1em; padding-right: 0.3em; vertical-align: top;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="outline-color: initial; outline-width: initial; vertical-align: top;"><b>1</b></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">and not for evil,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="cursor: pointer; font-size: 0.6em; line-height: 1.5em; outline-color: initial; outline-width: initial; padding-left: 0.1em; vertical-align: top;"><b>x</b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">to give you a future and a hope." (ESV)</span></a><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">We read the Bible verse and had the children practice memorizing it. You could also use the verse and do some copy work with it for them to practice their handwriting/printing. We had a discussion about how the little boy didn't always know where he was going and how he was sometimes scared. Thankfully, those who follow Jesus, are safe, and we can find comfort in the fact that He will guide our paths. He promises us good and not harm. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">We then read,"One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish," and did some math activities and a craft to go along with that book. We used colored gold fish as our manipulatives and our snack.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><a class="confluence-thumbnail-link 367x500" href="https://carmenwiki.osu.edu/download/attachments/23134388/dr-seuss-one-fish-two-fish-red-fish-blue-fish.jpg" style="color: blue;"><img height="314" src="https://carmenwiki.osu.edu/download/thumbnails/23134388/dr-seuss-one-fish-two-fish-red-fish-blue-fish.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: black; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: black; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0px; border-width: initial;" width="239" /></a></span><br />
I found the math worksheets from <a href="http://whattheteacherwants.blogspot.com/">What the Teacher Wants</a>. There was a <a href="http://whattheteacherwants.blogspot.com/2011/02/dr-suess-is-on-loose.html">free unit download </a>with great activities and lesson plan ideas for several of Dr. Seuss' books. THANK YOU! I printed out the fish with numbers and word numbers on card stock, laminated them, and cut them out. Then I had the kids work in pairs (siblings together) to match the words to the numbers. After that, the older kids spent some time writing out the number words for practice. We then did a graphing activity with gold fish. The kids sorted the rainbow goldfish and then graphed them according to color. They talked about what colors they had the most of, least of, etc. The younger kids work on putting together different patterns with the fish. It was so much fun! As our craft, I gave each child a piece of 12x12 card stock and ask them to draw a variety of fish (or use some of the fish clip art) and decorate them with glitter, sequins, markers, etc. They were all so clever and creative!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQA2frfCpzHlp7okQSss3AhG8zkuYqDiAcsDvXK8EEpRj5EU5oz3YJwhhXHoy35e2byOyVtpZbrHnB4lji34eHCFNskxkU-Le01iP4hO3ro87oyes18nVOOLeQfOMt7ndZ6dXYLRj7t-I/s1600/IMG_5061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQA2frfCpzHlp7okQSss3AhG8zkuYqDiAcsDvXK8EEpRj5EU5oz3YJwhhXHoy35e2byOyVtpZbrHnB4lji34eHCFNskxkU-Le01iP4hO3ro87oyes18nVOOLeQfOMt7ndZ6dXYLRj7t-I/s320/IMG_5061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUV2YJTxVlUnp6CRWptEBxZIO3HFKqpDABRlvCkPVvxU-Izt-GnjTDIdgJrOlGdN9j3p19cx8BVLWCPV3inj7_XdzoNYndjh8UfcTCxb2RiIcj6Gnx5YQYBo58BV5VkcDglhIRXWK1ereM/s1600/IMG_5064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUV2YJTxVlUnp6CRWptEBxZIO3HFKqpDABRlvCkPVvxU-Izt-GnjTDIdgJrOlGdN9j3p19cx8BVLWCPV3inj7_XdzoNYndjh8UfcTCxb2RiIcj6Gnx5YQYBo58BV5VkcDglhIRXWK1ereM/s320/IMG_5064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Nathan's masterpiece!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-kQcUqXiIhpAFYy4FMMCRaUKcuecXiVK93ZZsj420pBYy2V3Pfa2yTo9mDt2dgnt0D7UuSv9bIBUQk_XAgmu1ZvTKmQkkgzzWQK4P9mIa7cjw1VVwkPI4Yw0kKspPoveuAJEvAA-YAi2r/s1600/IMG_5065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-kQcUqXiIhpAFYy4FMMCRaUKcuecXiVK93ZZsj420pBYy2V3Pfa2yTo9mDt2dgnt0D7UuSv9bIBUQk_XAgmu1ZvTKmQkkgzzWQK4P9mIa7cjw1VVwkPI4Yw0kKspPoveuAJEvAA-YAi2r/s320/IMG_5065.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">SNACK TIME!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For our snacks, as if the goldfish weren't enough, we had Cat in the Hat-Hat Cake Pops that I made, Thing One and Thing Two cupcakes (blue cotton candy for the hair), and Cat in the Hat parfaits (thanks Shelly!).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cat in the Hat Parfaits (made with jello, cool whip, and strawberries--yum!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOa35rSCGCFP0gsZraSPtpjrkUjT61br7dUwIKo71Hzguwhm9MGSeKgvC7l175EcLF5L9t6-6seK1gjuGuDESEC9bDesSoHxKg95oQ84S7PvFt4nYhQmAjdTxwOtqkUXIsg1iwC1Z2Zk0o/s1600/IMG_5069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOa35rSCGCFP0gsZraSPtpjrkUjT61br7dUwIKo71Hzguwhm9MGSeKgvC7l175EcLF5L9t6-6seK1gjuGuDESEC9bDesSoHxKg95oQ84S7PvFt4nYhQmAjdTxwOtqkUXIsg1iwC1Z2Zk0o/s320/IMG_5069.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Hat Cake Pops! These were so fun to make. I can't wait to perfect them. It was my first time attempting this type of cake pop, so I need a little more practice. For my cake pop general instructions go <a href="http://frugaladventure.blogspot.com/2012/02/diy-cake-pops.html">here</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTgUckBgJ10RoTw8jv2yedT9mTvu_PLqb67yfZzaxSmt10fZRtF8cbprGSxP-W5_FKi6ndzCiGpnimuWoAJlNhUFflKCtOtlbN64Yd4GQhtVs3v2LazvKreMPgTHV051g4wPscqLijKB7l/s1600/IMG_5046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTgUckBgJ10RoTw8jv2yedT9mTvu_PLqb67yfZzaxSmt10fZRtF8cbprGSxP-W5_FKi6ndzCiGpnimuWoAJlNhUFflKCtOtlbN64Yd4GQhtVs3v2LazvKreMPgTHV051g4wPscqLijKB7l/s320/IMG_5046.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCQff7kZrxD07YCQ-oxsbKY4LhaOczEgFouX4nKY6MSqn5eWw7oCeoADfzIC5dFNXWGBhg5tH7MwqOV9pCRDkDNfC4sfZczGUQDdUJefgoIDMVhkQjOWw24OjGtcjy5T9nfg9TJRhDD3Z/s1600/IMG_5050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCQff7kZrxD07YCQ-oxsbKY4LhaOczEgFouX4nKY6MSqn5eWw7oCeoADfzIC5dFNXWGBhg5tH7MwqOV9pCRDkDNfC4sfZczGUQDdUJefgoIDMVhkQjOWw24OjGtcjy5T9nfg9TJRhDD3Z/s320/IMG_5050.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These were a hit with all the kids!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjNrXAZOI-OOhw8pcHDmXDY6gX74xrBUzgUbxSNtY4x6jx4IY6WA1G_tiPlztfqZok1c8AmlT0f9U67vA3rObz3WUDYbycq6yzmyoZyVMzyXb8OB-pCP-SclZ3FcndfYgbntWg2lO4hqS/s1600/IMG_5071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjNrXAZOI-OOhw8pcHDmXDY6gX74xrBUzgUbxSNtY4x6jx4IY6WA1G_tiPlztfqZok1c8AmlT0f9U67vA3rObz3WUDYbycq6yzmyoZyVMzyXb8OB-pCP-SclZ3FcndfYgbntWg2lO4hqS/s320/IMG_5071.jpg" width="253" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thing One and Thing Two Cupcakes! (FYI-you can find cotton candy at the Dollar Tree). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thank you Katie!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EtSZn1s0Arq03NMH-StU0P2gxua9doIs2iIrMZBOkqc73xgnC3xy1SU_ranxJD46fVPwoRhi2v5NdMfycd-lmoABxXdMkhm9t5SvmhfXZ6zNhojyrbWZds-TkmLLp_sk-Nh2TnyHJbeh/s1600/IMG_5058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EtSZn1s0Arq03NMH-StU0P2gxua9doIs2iIrMZBOkqc73xgnC3xy1SU_ranxJD46fVPwoRhi2v5NdMfycd-lmoABxXdMkhm9t5SvmhfXZ6zNhojyrbWZds-TkmLLp_sk-Nh2TnyHJbeh/s320/IMG_5058.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our Thing One and Thing Two for the day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2bGymtAFC-5PtUNEpwQvDteybFqPx8kbW0tec-h_GjnVruALOQAVZX52f0lOKhSiLR916-rju0gnbDLQjFjeLQk499UBC3pvBgxh7lblwWUTILUslwwTg4j8FAueGmaSVTeuOkMhy9hh/s1600/IMG_5063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2bGymtAFC-5PtUNEpwQvDteybFqPx8kbW0tec-h_GjnVruALOQAVZX52f0lOKhSiLR916-rju0gnbDLQjFjeLQk499UBC3pvBgxh7lblwWUTILUslwwTg4j8FAueGmaSVTeuOkMhy9hh/s320/IMG_5063.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our last book we read was the classic, "The Cat and the Hat." After we read it we discussed, "Now what would you do, if your mother asked you?" You know, the last line of the book. We talked about the importance of always telling the truth. God does not want us to lie, even if we think we may get in trouble. We also talked to the children about safety and how we shouldn't open the door for strangers, even if it is the Cat in the Hat. We did <a href="http://stuff-by-ash.blogspot.com/2011/03/cat-in-hat-hats-from-tp-rolls.html">this super cute and clever craft made from toilet paper rolls</a> that I found from the site called, <a href="http://stuff-by-ash.blogspot.com/">Stuff by Ash</a>. All of the detailed instructions can be found <a href="http://stuff-by-ash.blogspot.com/2011/03/cat-in-hat-hats-from-tp-rolls.html">here</a>. The kids really enjoyed making them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYISDgHiCdLtGKeNlB0yUF-KtdlejOo1kgTYS2Re1mlby9UWB3TCXAomOpCwvpqTrLQ7HmBPTdR1gx-fWjKj_K19OnueA2tuxXJ2WRnbgWZH_vh8wVjH1Zqt79zM5PiLjywSIaWiJSiQbS/s1600/IMG_5078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYISDgHiCdLtGKeNlB0yUF-KtdlejOo1kgTYS2Re1mlby9UWB3TCXAomOpCwvpqTrLQ7HmBPTdR1gx-fWjKj_K19OnueA2tuxXJ2WRnbgWZH_vh8wVjH1Zqt79zM5PiLjywSIaWiJSiQbS/s320/IMG_5078.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggChlmcCs2r-6aavbRkdT5eOy9w5njVSl9RwVbz6KjkI1jAovh5jlsgWUSWIYrwb2bgu1cd33FFb93rW32BZJBHBkU_qKGrdpRKhXfoVXKvygETh2A9qXeiKUGCGAkEXi1W6N3Jw13CL-_/s1600/IMG_5079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggChlmcCs2r-6aavbRkdT5eOy9w5njVSl9RwVbz6KjkI1jAovh5jlsgWUSWIYrwb2bgu1cd33FFb93rW32BZJBHBkU_qKGrdpRKhXfoVXKvygETh2A9qXeiKUGCGAkEXi1W6N3Jw13CL-_/s320/IMG_5079.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was a really great co-op and the kids had so much fun. I was so impressed by how attentive they were throughout all the stories and activities. I highly recommend doing a Dr. Seuss party every year on, or around, March 2nd. And you can even make a <a href="http://frostmeblog.blogspot.com/2010/03/happy-bday-dr-suess.html">Cat in the Hat pizza</a> for dinner like we did.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgCnEkc7AzJ4Y8y2eOyU_gJ1Aeueb9Sy5tkifZfGnidWf798PmX2l3aoFWXsIDlrf5UEdMAycJ2hdromoVH2yU6nRm8iSGrPxaON-8GnX20xO0FE0rCT-Tuic4FscRR1MVZhnyyUKXbnV8/s1600/IMG_5045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgCnEkc7AzJ4Y8y2eOyU_gJ1Aeueb9Sy5tkifZfGnidWf798PmX2l3aoFWXsIDlrf5UEdMAycJ2hdromoVH2yU6nRm8iSGrPxaON-8GnX20xO0FE0rCT-Tuic4FscRR1MVZhnyyUKXbnV8/s320/IMG_5045.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I just made my <a href="http://frugaladventure.blogspot.com/2011/02/homemade-pizza-perfected.html">usual pizza dough</a> (all white flour this time) and shaped it into a hat. I then did layers of olive oil and cheese (white) and sauce and pepperoni (red). What do you think?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And you can also make your own <a href="http://www.icanteachmychild.com/2012/02/easy-cat-in-the-hat-hat/">special paper plate "Hat</a>" for when you read the book:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Inspiration for this idea from <a href="http://www.icanteachmychild.com/">I Can Teach My Child</a>, one of my favorite homeschool blogs).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7K2yBPik_DfApHWfxPFoc2DyaoaC1Un78bm0Ngd9ue3BFVdoUHtM3X6GtHrFcgzZBmYQ_OnL-iryMvD8enCS2sc9p0e7RGdIpOQkTrqmhfac_x7X6DS6WVh6AF9qyg0k7wJAAZy0yQkq/s1600/IMG_5030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzL2ih7ZOduM8MOrhPTX4izi43Odkt_By3E2Q8cmMKbLVUvXkSJXvWXUFCu25wt4ytPeDU1-7YkGAeBLNRwlQRTyR1zaCv0tYOlWK57-EvEhsxwD9r7oQL3rjylPt3qnphd6i4hCC1oyHt/s1600/IMG_5034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzL2ih7ZOduM8MOrhPTX4izi43Odkt_By3E2Q8cmMKbLVUvXkSJXvWXUFCu25wt4ytPeDU1-7YkGAeBLNRwlQRTyR1zaCv0tYOlWK57-EvEhsxwD9r7oQL3rjylPt3qnphd6i4hCC1oyHt/s320/IMG_5034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7K2yBPik_DfApHWfxPFoc2DyaoaC1Un78bm0Ngd9ue3BFVdoUHtM3X6GtHrFcgzZBmYQ_OnL-iryMvD8enCS2sc9p0e7RGdIpOQkTrqmhfac_x7X6DS6WVh6AF9qyg0k7wJAAZy0yQkq/s1600/IMG_5030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7K2yBPik_DfApHWfxPFoc2DyaoaC1Un78bm0Ngd9ue3BFVdoUHtM3X6GtHrFcgzZBmYQ_OnL-iryMvD8enCS2sc9p0e7RGdIpOQkTrqmhfac_x7X6DS6WVh6AF9qyg0k7wJAAZy0yQkq/s320/IMG_5030.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYtGHI7fq6UeFJKKx_ICES75exFzUyuq4Iuy9Z82cz628nwPQ0Kv5QK46AucqONFjI53v43emsLBpBsCSoY1hDz_AF8rTLrsqctH9C87U0CyHI4s-srenlDIVuJlS4dBdtMhwP5Ub569P/s1600/IMG_5035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYtGHI7fq6UeFJKKx_ICES75exFzUyuq4Iuy9Z82cz628nwPQ0Kv5QK46AucqONFjI53v43emsLBpBsCSoY1hDz_AF8rTLrsqctH9C87U0CyHI4s-srenlDIVuJlS4dBdtMhwP5Ub569P/s320/IMG_5035.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOLfPh8D2yCmFUa7FFO3I0FZdMp1jQrT-cYEI4gNllSAkDPb3ceOzxykmm1Bm6-DcI8EQsOJLm7gx42g18dgtuSGvDs0F_E4g05gzkyYQARP2HZ5mJgt09Wjbl6qjfDcUUXbFuRPMVCPM/s1600/IMG_5039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOLfPh8D2yCmFUa7FFO3I0FZdMp1jQrT-cYEI4gNllSAkDPb3ceOzxykmm1Bm6-DcI8EQsOJLm7gx42g18dgtuSGvDs0F_E4g05gzkyYQARP2HZ5mJgt09Wjbl6qjfDcUUXbFuRPMVCPM/s320/IMG_5039.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thank you, Dr. Seuss, for all of your wonderful books. We love them and love how they teach our children how to read. What fun memories too!</div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-35717594828429638822012-03-06T13:04:00.000-08:002012-03-06T13:04:48.031-08:00Free Redbox Game Rental this week! (through 3/8)<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1px;"><img height="242" id="il_fi" src="http://3.thekrazycouponlady.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/RedboxLogo.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="400" /></span></div>Every day, through March 8th, you can <a href="http://www.redbox.com/games">rent a free video game through Redbox</a> for the first night. You just have to reserve it online, pick it up the same day you reserve it, and make sure to return it by 9:00 on the following day. We took advantage of this yesterday and got a Wii game that my boys are enjoying. I just reserved another game that I will pick up today. It is a great way to try out some games before deciding whether you should buy them or not.Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-76230641461172648502012-02-29T12:43:00.000-08:002012-02-29T12:43:34.008-08:00DIY: Cake Pops!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkThmVLTOoolNVTQWwNf4F_CYXKYaqXEJ8Az61NWiN_itMjOpKmJMK5Msn1Me5swHqyy6qTboGTIiRHGC0zGqb6ThCLZJzph6MxKJuyMlt9lRI_MerpEX97DmwqQMHdSNbEn6ULr42_j_X/s1600/IMG_4967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkThmVLTOoolNVTQWwNf4F_CYXKYaqXEJ8Az61NWiN_itMjOpKmJMK5Msn1Me5swHqyy6qTboGTIiRHGC0zGqb6ThCLZJzph6MxKJuyMlt9lRI_MerpEX97DmwqQMHdSNbEn6ULr42_j_X/s320/IMG_4967.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was so excited to finally be able to try to make my own cake pops for a recent Valentine's Day Party I hosted. I got my inspiration from here on <a href="http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/my_weblog/2012/02/how-to-make-cake-pops.html">A Beautiful Mess</a>. She has excellent <a href="http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/my_weblog/2012/02/how-to-make-cake-pops.html">directions with great pictures.</a> I am still working on getting better pictures on here. My boys helped me the first time I did it, which made it a little bit more difficult and messy, but fun, none-the-less. What you need:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. A box of your favorite cake mix and the ingredients to make the cake (I used Red Velvet).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. A container of frosting (2 cups worth) or make your own butter cream frosting. (I used cream cheese flavored frosting).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. 2-3 bags of candy melts in a variety of colors.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. 50 lollipop sticks (the longer ones work better).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. A Styrofoam holder of sorts (I used a piece from inside our TV box and my boys decorated it). You can also find foam rectangles at a craft store.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First make and bake the cake according to the box directions.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAQENXUC1dYIMhYURaBCRsJgCPlIhtisyn7pju_jUdOrnJhrDXAYN5uDED3hcAyOuDzTKU0-pMM1cfAnywFK1DGVkmx40riKYVx2xY0Ro7QLOhrV-q1VDEDfg1_kZQRjJgOJDkJhSjppp4/s1600/IMG_4951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAQENXUC1dYIMhYURaBCRsJgCPlIhtisyn7pju_jUdOrnJhrDXAYN5uDED3hcAyOuDzTKU0-pMM1cfAnywFK1DGVkmx40riKYVx2xY0Ro7QLOhrV-q1VDEDfg1_kZQRjJgOJDkJhSjppp4/s320/IMG_4951.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Next, the messy step....once the cake is cool, break it up into a big mess and dump in the frosting. With your fingers, blend it very well.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5jYkbxgrNpGGTRd12b3aRIUsQfdEqMGfPzgst_sqL9nxqYFReQfuQNYckkHmnhLO5MS5uJzElC3C_MxhpY3NRvLd8g0seZ2f82v9cNL7lX4s9VJNlNFKSdFGS51zFyYgYMwunoHJAnth/s1600/IMG_4953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5jYkbxgrNpGGTRd12b3aRIUsQfdEqMGfPzgst_sqL9nxqYFReQfuQNYckkHmnhLO5MS5uJzElC3C_MxhpY3NRvLd8g0seZ2f82v9cNL7lX4s9VJNlNFKSdFGS51zFyYgYMwunoHJAnth/s320/IMG_4953.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Next, use your hands to roll the cake/frosting mixture into about 50 balls--the size of golf balls. (No picture of this, but you can see the balls below). Freeze them for 30-60 minutes or put in refrigerator for two hours. While waiting, have your children decorate the Styrofoam. Great job boys!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiryEDaANHZWWLEst70VEAd7U9UZaCUSlHloDHnFcSpHHEZP8Ku65hVWN7uI9Ad3TMwbqCLJEFbIPsPq1iZhdCq4WQbH-4W6bTdZtvlh_ctY3u3v5erknTGKNbQnVofNfYIBsddu7hsxl97/s1600/IMG_4954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiryEDaANHZWWLEst70VEAd7U9UZaCUSlHloDHnFcSpHHEZP8Ku65hVWN7uI9Ad3TMwbqCLJEFbIPsPq1iZhdCq4WQbH-4W6bTdZtvlh_ctY3u3v5erknTGKNbQnVofNfYIBsddu7hsxl97/s320/IMG_4954.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Next, place the candy melts in a microwave safe bowl with about 1 tablespoon of vegetable/canola oil. Melt them and stir (try 60-90 seconds). Next, dip your lollipop stick into the melted candy and then push it about 2/3 of the way into the cold cake balls. Next, carefully dip into melted candy, being careful the ball doesn't fall off. We also used a spoon to help spread some more candy over the ball. This step is tricky as the melted candies cool very fast and sets quickly too. The temperature of the melted candy is key to easy dipping. You may have to put it in the microwave again. Let the excess drip back into the bowl and then stick the lollipop stick into the Styrofoam to set. You can then add more decorations, sprinkles, other colors of melted candies, etc. The possibilities are endless! Have<br />
fun and get creative!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnCLBh4L3yYme74Dke1fHwB0blSwD_CMLQ9HgChXprPvICYeI0yoL_MAcX6r7lU59cQRTtpmiKkxpeIU6O-472ICnQoPqU3kdg8BRZw8OCgS0FJ3ubun1flWYL4sQvbNKEA-ptmV90YIQ/s1600/IMG_4959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnCLBh4L3yYme74Dke1fHwB0blSwD_CMLQ9HgChXprPvICYeI0yoL_MAcX6r7lU59cQRTtpmiKkxpeIU6O-472ICnQoPqU3kdg8BRZw8OCgS0FJ3ubun1flWYL4sQvbNKEA-ptmV90YIQ/s320/IMG_4959.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
In the picture above, you can see the balls as well as the spoon technique. My boys were such great helpers!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQWu46MgJCpYANK0Y2BClWuNzaoEJ7AxXnE2yqVodDkutUXGrLYP4J6upUCgg4Sz3_dvC89WWhPvmosu4q_QlqOzelyyrls-EAuMuN4QBr6WA3vFNfU4p8U4jOJG9DyeGznr7wEwHOtz9c/s1600/IMG_4960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQWu46MgJCpYANK0Y2BClWuNzaoEJ7AxXnE2yqVodDkutUXGrLYP4J6upUCgg4Sz3_dvC89WWhPvmosu4q_QlqOzelyyrls-EAuMuN4QBr6WA3vFNfU4p8U4jOJG9DyeGznr7wEwHOtz9c/s320/IMG_4960.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Our lovely cake pops! I was very pleased with how they turned out for it being our first time making them. Can't wait to do it again!<br />
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</a></div> I had some extra candy bags and placed them over the pops t keep them fresh. Oh, don't refrigerate them as the candy may crack. These cost me less than $5 to make 50 cake pops (well, probably more like 42 since there were some casualties). Can you believe Starbucks charges $1.50 each?!?!? Maybe I should start a business?!?!? <br />
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</div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-30210212442995239612012-02-15T04:54:00.000-08:002012-02-15T04:54:07.695-08:00DIY: Bulletin Board Re-DoSorry I have been MIA for a very, very long time. But good news, I have several fun posts coming up over the next few days and weeks of DIY projects, homeschooling fun, and yummy recipes. The first one is this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nf0bfiTJ4pS_oJF7MpHgyDCnqCgeAQmBbyeVmB-9DHLPMk_pNhpTokQVLZ7QnkzsKj2QHaRvqR7KynFs4gOfn-PGDy_13h6LvRTlmVhM7scu6MjKwv1LiF5ggDVYDjN3bvdFWfXGg3ef/s1600/IMG_4915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nf0bfiTJ4pS_oJF7MpHgyDCnqCgeAQmBbyeVmB-9DHLPMk_pNhpTokQVLZ7QnkzsKj2QHaRvqR7KynFs4gOfn-PGDy_13h6LvRTlmVhM7scu6MjKwv1LiF5ggDVYDjN3bvdFWfXGg3ef/s320/IMG_4915.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Is that not one of the ugliest bulletin boards you have even seen? This was a trash pick from 4 months ago and it actually says "Trash Please" on the back! It smelled of smoke, has that terrible stain, and was in, over all, bad shape. I thought, "I could use a bulletin board for my classroom, I'll take it home." It has been sitting for months in the garage, so thankfully the smell is gone. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next, I pulled out my scrapbooking supplies and found some really cute and brightly colored 12 x 12 paper that was probably 5-6 years old. I arranged 12 pieces and stapled them down and had a great new cover for my board. I found a cute border in the education section at Joann Fabrics for $1.60 and added that around the ugly edge. My sweet boys stood on my desk while I hammered the nails in, and....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There you have it a brightly colored, fun bulletin board for my classroom that was FREE and only took about 15-20 minutes to redo! I took someone else's trash and made into something useful and beautiful for us. Now I am excited to put stuff on it! (Don't mind my messy desk). What do you think?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkS3otdTLdGrLN1Jtema6G4eg_WOQABINkJ93ZqZkF1LuyD_ULIgLpwXJP8H5orj1p-WfECJA8DqFG-PWaDuFm17s1eu22PY78I1Lxz4dVu1JJRUDwygjqajNpIK_aaCfED156YnQm_WyK/s1600/IMG_4999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkS3otdTLdGrLN1Jtema6G4eg_WOQABINkJ93ZqZkF1LuyD_ULIgLpwXJP8H5orj1p-WfECJA8DqFG-PWaDuFm17s1eu22PY78I1Lxz4dVu1JJRUDwygjqajNpIK_aaCfED156YnQm_WyK/s320/IMG_4999.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-89843095315091070562011-11-12T19:22:00.000-08:002011-11-12T19:22:13.100-08:00Shutterfly Christmas Cards!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Once again, I am here to rave about and give ten thumbs up to <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/">Shutterfly</a> and their awesome holiday card collection. And, of course, all the other fun stuff like <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars">calendars</a>, photo books, <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/photo-gifts">photo gifts</a>, and more. I must say again, I love their<a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/photo-books"> photo books</a>. People rave about them when they come over and see them on display. The <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/photo-books">custom path options</a>, allow you to customize every aspect of each page. It is incredible! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Now back to the cards....I was at a Shutterfly HouseParty today (thank you Meredith) and got to see, first hand, real samples of some of </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards?lid=christmas&lpos=cardscat_marq">cards in the new collection</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. I love all the beautiful, clever, cute, fancy (all of the above) designs. There has to be a perfect card for everyone out there. And, you can customize them too, with options like changing the amount of pictures, the text, and the layouts. I discovered last year, that they offer "story" cards, where you can actually write your Christmas letter in them. I am hoping to find another one like that this year! I browsed the website recently and have come across some fun ones...the problem will be narrowing it down to one (or two)! Here is a look at a few that caught my eye...now, if I could only get my pictures to look this good too! </span><br />
<a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards?filterOptions=atcard_format_2%7Catcard_size_1&selectFilterOption=atcard_size_1&clearFilterOption=">Hearts and Home 5x7 Folded Card</a> (this could be a "story" card for those letters you like to write)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="320" id="pipLargePreview" src="http://www.shutterfly.com/img_/publishing/styleSwatches/ssc/stationerycard_folded_5x7/STATIONERYCARD_FOLDED_5x7-27137-4746-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v131500197400084262.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="231" /></span></div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Here is a religious one that has a nice design:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px;"><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards?filterOptions=atcard_format_2%7Catcard_size_1&selectFilterOption=atcard_size_1&clearFilterOption=">Blessing of Chris</a>t</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="320" id="pipLargePreview" src="http://www.shutterfly.com/img_/publishing/styleSwatches/ssc/stationerycard_folded_5x7/STATIONERYCARD_FOLDED_5x7-27142-3674-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v131312331200093582.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="231" /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">And the flat cards are really nice and are available in a variety of sizes, styles, and designs. You can even put pictures on the back!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards?filterOptions=atcard_format_1%7Cattheme_2&selectFilterOption=attheme_2&clearFilterOption=">Top Ten Reasons Card</a></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="320" id="pipLargePreview" src="http://www.shutterfly.com/img_/publishing/styleSwatches/ssc/stationerycard_5x7/STATIONERYCARD_5x7-23046-4450-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1313119876000110770.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="231" /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">And here is another option for those who like the Christmas letter idea, but don't want to include an extra piece of paper...do it all on the card!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards?filterOptions=atcard_format_1%7Cattheme_2&selectFilterOption=attheme_2&clearFilterOption=">Holiday Letter Christmas Card</a></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #464646; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="320" id="pipLargePreview" src="http://www.shutterfly.com/img_/publishing/styleSwatches/ssc/stationerycard_5x7/STATIONERYCARD_5x7-23046-4749-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1315419143000140628.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="231" /></span></div><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I hope you enjoy browsing the website too and can find the perfect holiday card for 2011. Check out Shutterfly for all your holiday photo wants and needs. You will not be disappointed! Oh, and right now, the cards are 40% when you use the code CARD40 (not sure when it expires).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I must also let you know that Shutterfy's customer service is top-notch. I tell you that from experience. I have called them at least a dozen times for as long as I have been a customer and they have always been very friendly and have taken care of my issues promptly and to my satisfaction.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(By the way, these opinions are all my own. I am entering a promotion to see if Shutterfly likes my blog review of their holiday cards. If I am chosen, I will get 25 free cards. I was not otherwise compensated for this review).</span><br />
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</span></span>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-51285924964326337842011-10-30T18:38:00.001-07:002011-10-30T18:42:40.815-07:00Photo Cards from Shutterfly<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidget" style="height: 494px; width: 425px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetTop" style="background-image: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/top.gif); height: 6px;"><br />
</div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetCenter" style="background-image: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bg.gif); background-repeat: repeat-y; height: 482px; padding: 0 6px 0 6px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewLogo" style="height: 34px; padding: 14px 0 0 14px; width: 105px;"><img src="http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/logo.gif" style="background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none; padding: 0;" /></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewContainer" style="height: 350px; padding: 0; text-align: center;"><a href="http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0QZt2LZo4cMX-w&cid=SFLYOCWIDGET&eid=115"><img src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/0QZt2LZo4cMT/0QZt2LZo4cMTYSU/p/67b0de21b3127d902548/JPEG/1320025103000/0/" style="background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewMessageContainer" style="background-color: #f4f4e9; height: 55px; line-height: 19px; padding: 15px 0 15px 0; text-align: center;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewTitle" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;">Faith Love Family Religious</div><div class="sflyProductPreviewSEOText" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px;">Unique designs that are as unique as you. <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">Shutterfly</a>.</div><div class="sflyProductPreviewViewCollection" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px;">View the entire <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">collection</a> of cards.</div><img border="0" height="1" src="https://os.shutterfly.com/b/ss/sflyshareprod/1/H.15/111?pageName=sharekey&c1=msc&c2=blogger" style="background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none; padding: 0;" width="1" /><br />
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</div></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetBottom" style="background-image: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bottom.gif); height: 6px;"></div></div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-83896179226713786562011-10-12T07:28:00.000-07:002011-10-12T07:28:56.344-07:00Free Chick-Fil-A Breakfast Entree on Saturdays in October if you wear PJ's<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #696a6a; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;"><a href="http://www.newsmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Chick-fil-A-script-red-sm.jpg" style="color: #d92d30; text-decoration: none;" title="Chick-fil-A-script-red-sm"><img alt="Chick fil A script red sm 300x170 Chick fil A script red sm" class="attachment-medium" height="170" src="http://www.newsmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Chick-fil-A-script-red-sm-300x170.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; max-width: 100%; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 1px; padding-right: 1px; padding-top: 1px;" title="Chick-fil-A-script-red-sm" width="300" /></a></span></div>Every Saturday this month, wear your pajamas, and stop by your local Chick-Fil-A for a free breakfast entree! I went this past Saturday with my boys and we got $10 worth of food for free! Gotta love Chick-Fil-A for their great food and excellent customer service!Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-17466712516484518032011-07-06T14:06:00.000-07:002011-07-06T14:20:22.014-07:00How does your garden grow?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBEznu5ps5XMkjAq8KvYEp6Bd39nVciPWPVLIu5G8ucdTTLPJbJRkPyHQZkQ7kXAVIjoX2jQo390am3eA0sgBlbAPekxkHbMwVplK67vpegweZpK4oJhCHhqNnSeacDi8PoghcdrLG2Fb3/s1600/IMG_1048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBEznu5ps5XMkjAq8KvYEp6Bd39nVciPWPVLIu5G8ucdTTLPJbJRkPyHQZkQ7kXAVIjoX2jQo390am3eA0sgBlbAPekxkHbMwVplK67vpegweZpK4oJhCHhqNnSeacDi8PoghcdrLG2Fb3/s400/IMG_1048.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>It has been so long since I have posted anything on here, but I am very excited to say that we have another wonderful garden this year! My boys have been very excited about the garden and actually enjoy going our with me to check on our fruits and veggies and to help me pick them. We always are amazed at how big some or our zucchini get. My zucchini and yellow squash have exploded even more so than last year. I realized this year that they don't need much water and I definitely don't water at night or on top of the leaves. This was a big mistake last year. I have already harvested at least 4 dozen and have given many away. We have made several loaves of bread, 4 dozen muffins, <a href="http://whatscookingamerica.net/Vegetables/OvenFriedZucchini.htm">over fried zucchini</a>, and <a href="http://frugaladventure.blogspot.com/2010/06/poor-mans-crab-cakes.html">Poor Man's Crab Cakes</a> (I posted about these last year...they are delicious and very easy). I have also shredded some and froze it for future use in breads and muffins.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJaiawfqfiEEMHibmOUYKIJ6e23IP0Me2SbZgfQWoFap5xtz9AbFH6BUHVZPxdaiIjYei3pC2hiq7H2qQHfp2ivGEIGnROyCWXnvtg972eK5PXVUG4szMjcKsX2UG8zwPzx3rhRkgP5Fs/s1600/IMG_1049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJaiawfqfiEEMHibmOUYKIJ6e23IP0Me2SbZgfQWoFap5xtz9AbFH6BUHVZPxdaiIjYei3pC2hiq7H2qQHfp2ivGEIGnROyCWXnvtg972eK5PXVUG4szMjcKsX2UG8zwPzx3rhRkgP5Fs/s320/IMG_1049.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX9O6IoTSf95TIjHdBUPl6QluE0V75DY6KWVH0d1704JRSyGdRqEOtRWL96OcDgYtOcYMeF3OVrAjpa2q5yQVIIDprIVVZQ9-LqglrZPVtxrpF_4sA2pOlg4DOZEXOVSLDUK_P_-Zr5ZAh/s1600/IMG_1044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX9O6IoTSf95TIjHdBUPl6QluE0V75DY6KWVH0d1704JRSyGdRqEOtRWL96OcDgYtOcYMeF3OVrAjpa2q5yQVIIDprIVVZQ9-LqglrZPVtxrpF_4sA2pOlg4DOZEXOVSLDUK_P_-Zr5ZAh/s320/IMG_1044.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
My tomatoes and peppers are doing well too. Last year, my peppers never made it, so I am happy that all four of my plants are doing fabulous. New this year...cantaloupe...and we have one that should be ready by the weekend! My boys are very excited about it. I planted a small strawberry plant that was on clearance for only $2 at Lowes. I got a couple strawberries from it, but look forward to it doing better next year. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNl_fWYSJmrWi-RdY7CfmxrPRspOQMKzckBjWbOkPtHUTXQMz3ZexE2DsPGPPPVD0-8HdLcGJs7GKH0Bj7T7f2jZv15O7i8HRXPmHUFJD-HVP-2lrA1PPJz4-aqsRHc3fbO3g9bFAjwr8/s1600/IMG_1046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNl_fWYSJmrWi-RdY7CfmxrPRspOQMKzckBjWbOkPtHUTXQMz3ZexE2DsPGPPPVD0-8HdLcGJs7GKH0Bj7T7f2jZv15O7i8HRXPmHUFJD-HVP-2lrA1PPJz4-aqsRHc3fbO3g9bFAjwr8/s320/IMG_1046.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
And I am super excited to report that my raspberries are AMAZING!!!! I have probably triple the plants I had last year (they spread like crazy and I must give some away) and half of them have already started harvesting. I have picked a small container of raspberries everyday for about the past two weeks already....and we still have the rest of the summer and fall to enjoy them! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsW19HrlAzjSazWFFQq47hrNUpilccqKVI4l7ZxDdWw_y0bXaqG6ltdrI67_HM6uoqchRmDFFQ8JNVTLH-dzfk6qe8yahnqAgxK4pVrJcF81s6zLPJLmj2qGru86jtzIozsqs0AYn1B8_x/s1600/IMG_1055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsW19HrlAzjSazWFFQq47hrNUpilccqKVI4l7ZxDdWw_y0bXaqG6ltdrI67_HM6uoqchRmDFFQ8JNVTLH-dzfk6qe8yahnqAgxK4pVrJcF81s6zLPJLmj2qGru86jtzIozsqs0AYn1B8_x/s320/IMG_1055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This year's garden was very simple to put in since I did all the prep work last year when we started. My neighbor picked up all my plants for me (except the raspberries since they were already there) for only $7! Another friend gave me her left over manure, so I used that along with the soil from last year. All in all, everything is going well. I just need to make sure the tomatoes and peppers stay watered since they seem the most sensitive to all this heat. How is your garden growing? What are you most excited about? If any of my local friends would like to swap crops I would be very up for that! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi81iz7WaI9lKLiYpaDluqIwrGUGkHdbndcg45wr3xzSOJ7qvrdeeh_CTESr9Mz4-VXcKcFldIu4l4IsNoEfNk3GC8yy82XHvm6v59AmP_zyqz3UTIXXL2grdRwVCH34bRnzM6cSwlRZcjA/s1600/IMG_1037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi81iz7WaI9lKLiYpaDluqIwrGUGkHdbndcg45wr3xzSOJ7qvrdeeh_CTESr9Mz4-VXcKcFldIu4l4IsNoEfNk3GC8yy82XHvm6v59AmP_zyqz3UTIXXL2grdRwVCH34bRnzM6cSwlRZcjA/s320/IMG_1037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-71690940601750292032011-06-01T22:03:00.000-07:002011-06-01T22:03:00.417-07:00Shutterfly: Free Cards for Father's Day!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I love <a href="http://shutterfly.com/">Shutterfly</a> so much...I think most of you know that by now. They have the best deals/discounts, best quality for prints, books, and gifts, and great customer service. I just got done making several photo gifts, cards, and collage prints to give out to our family members for Mother's Day (very late) and Father's Day. Right now, you can also get 5 free photo cards just in time for Father's Day (or any other occasion you may need them for). Use the code DADCARD at the checkout to get your free cards. Shipping and handling will be extra, unless of course you spend $30 or more at use the copse SHIP30 to get free shipping! Both of these codes expire on June 9, 2011. (I just posted a sample of the card I made). </span></span>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-68787820495479348442011-06-01T21:54:00.000-07:002011-06-01T22:00:25.735-07:00I just love Shutterfly to pieces!!! Free Cards!<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidget" style="height: 494px; width: 425px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetTop" style="background-image: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/top.gif); height: 6px;"><br />
</div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetCenter" style="background-image: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bg.gif); background-repeat: repeat-y; height: 482px; padding: 0 6px 0 6px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewLogo" style="height: 34px; padding: 14px 0 0 14px; width: 105px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/logo.gif" /></div></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewContainer" style="height: 350px; padding: 0; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0QZt2LZo4cMX6g&cid=SFLYOCWIDGET&eid=118" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="320" src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/0QZt2LZo4cMT/0QZt2LZo4cMTYQc/p/67b0de21b3127d902548/JPEG/1306989901000/0/" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewMessageContainer" style="background-color: #f4f4e9; height: 55px; line-height: 19px; padding: 15px 0 15px 0; text-align: center;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewTitle" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;">5x7 Folded Card</div><div class="sflyProductPreviewViewCollection" style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px;">View the entire <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">collection</a> of cards.<br />
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</div><div>If you want a copy too, just Twitter, Facebook, or blog about this new ebook by tonight at midnight and let <a href="http://www.likeawarmcupofcoffee.com/home/2011/04/free-copy-of-31-days-to-clean/">Sarah Mae</a> know you did through email with your link.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Thanks, <a href="http://www.moneysavingmom.com/">Money Saving Mom!</a></div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-50138452958778440632011-04-10T14:04:00.000-07:002011-04-10T14:04:24.747-07:00Frugal Birthday Cakes: Part 3-The best frosting!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbn0DMjjtk9yXBpKBVLrNJgasVm8unLiD1jc2cFni2UIfA4OaG6qW0Hs_-GcrD63j0ZURYdhswufSVc1gUX4XKvtl9uR84673qzJ__sNL1G9bCV22iPylI_ATWZi_o6KQycTSdEDkIe_q9/s1600/IMG_7717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbn0DMjjtk9yXBpKBVLrNJgasVm8unLiD1jc2cFni2UIfA4OaG6qW0Hs_-GcrD63j0ZURYdhswufSVc1gUX4XKvtl9uR84673qzJ__sNL1G9bCV22iPylI_ATWZi_o6KQycTSdEDkIe_q9/s320/IMG_7717.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSk9E9d7Z7ejWQzRdu0l1rXg-x5j38CxvBZjj4f0KSkCx_Jrr26f5Nj7PoN2Prz3fh4guPxJZjSceBGsEnLg6EEhUeLZ6mqmLORW69Cx99Q9cM5pMaehgylBvVZ4mTsVEYz207CjcNYEih/s1600/IMG_7720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSk9E9d7Z7ejWQzRdu0l1rXg-x5j38CxvBZjj4f0KSkCx_Jrr26f5Nj7PoN2Prz3fh4guPxJZjSceBGsEnLg6EEhUeLZ6mqmLORW69Cx99Q9cM5pMaehgylBvVZ4mTsVEYz207CjcNYEih/s320/IMG_7720.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I started this series on frugal birthday cakes a long time ago. You can read <a href="http://frugaladventure.blogspot.com/2010/09/frugal-birthday-cakes-part-1.html">Part 1</a> and <a href="http://frugaladventure.blogspot.com/2010/10/frugal-birthday-cakes-part-2-free-1st.html">Part 2</a> if you would like. Part 1 shows you some of the cake I have made in the past. The most recent one, is the Spaceship cake you see above that was for my oldest son's 5th birthday, Toy Story party. Isn't it great? More details on that one later.<br />
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I have been meaning to post this recipe for frosting for a long time. Sorry. This is a recipe my family has been using for years and we even know the baker who invented it. She is the one who made many of our cakes for various birthdays, showers, and even rehearsal dinners for our family's weddings. This frosting is very smooth and creamy and not too sweet. It works great for decorating cakes. The key to this recipe is to make sure that the evaporated milk is very cold and that you beat the frosting for a good 10 minutes (or even more). I also put the frosting in the refrigerator at various times while I am decorating a cake to make sure it doesn't get too runny. It freezes well too and tastes great with animal crackers! I don't know about you, but our family loves to dip animal crackers in frosting! Yummy! Let me know if you try it and what you think.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Butter Cream Frosting</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 cup Crisco</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 cup (2 sticks) Blue Bonnet or Parkay margarine (cold)</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 1/2 cups powdered sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp. vanilla</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup very cold canned evaporated milk</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Blend Crisco and margarine together. Add powdered sugar. Add vanilla. Gradually add the 1/2 cup of evaporated milk and beat on high for at least 10 minutes. </div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-90690733628812326122011-04-06T12:30:00.000-07:002011-04-06T12:30:48.552-07:00ACME deals get even better!I just wanted to post real quick that the cereal and milk deals at ACME just got even sweeter. Now, you can get fee, or really cheap fruit too! I was there yesterday picking up my <a href="http://frugaladventure.blogspot.com/2011/03/cereal-deals-and-free-milk.html">Kellogg's cereal and free milk</a> and discovered that some of the boxes of cereal had "peelies" (sticker coupons on the boxes) on them for $1.00 off fresh fruit purchase when you buy two participating boxes of Kellogg's cereal. So I picked up 4 boxes of Pops and 2 boxes of Froot Loops since they were are included in the deal. I got four of the peelies, but only used three yesterday.<b> SO, for only $7.97, I walked away with 6 boxes of cereal, 2 FREE gallons of milk, a 4 pound bag of navel oranges (sale price $1.99) and 3 bananas with all the sales, deals, and coupons.</b> It was like getting the fruit for free too! Yeah for ACME!Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-18746301236175733132011-04-04T12:38:00.000-07:002011-04-05T19:11:58.307-07:00DIY: Family Handprints Wall Hanging (final picture)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPFz5IjZaWLiiRiB7L1nG0dIFsgXZLqxO0nqpcknohXHZzz7jtDptyt5NVqvr7Gyzpjj3MOHBwy-pxtaNgscbtxJKj-JDYaw9BnVZ_Clnb_mQUdKq2L3MmKeQD73ckKK5M8TqJVd4G2pjy/s1600/IMG_9335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPFz5IjZaWLiiRiB7L1nG0dIFsgXZLqxO0nqpcknohXHZzz7jtDptyt5NVqvr7Gyzpjj3MOHBwy-pxtaNgscbtxJKj-JDYaw9BnVZ_Clnb_mQUdKq2L3MmKeQD73ckKK5M8TqJVd4G2pjy/s320/IMG_9335.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This is a picture of my family handprints wall hanging I showed you how to make last year. I got them hung up about two months ago...finally! They are hung in my homeschooling classroom. Don't you love the green walls too! I love it! It was a great upgrade to the room and makes it so cozy!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><a href="http://frugaladventure.blogspot.com/2010/03/diy-family-handprints-wall-hanging.html">Check out my post from last year</a> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">on how to do this easy, creative, inexpensive, family handprints wall hanging. It will make for a great decoration and a great keepsake!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Well, I just copied my post from last year to make it easier for you all to read (from March 2010):</span><br />
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<div style="line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I am super excited to share this "Do It Yourself" project that I just finished last night. Well, almost finished. Now, they just need to be hung on the wall. I take no credit for this idea though. Back in November, I was at a friend's house (she did it herself too) and that is where I got the idea. And she found the idea from </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1856985327">here</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://gifts.redenvelope.com/baby/handprint-canvas-kits-27747025?viewpos=2&trackingpgroup=productsearch&ref=REDSRCHovrtkwd_red+envelope_s_BRND&prid=SRCHribbon5">.</a> So, what is it? You take blank, framed canvases, paint them a solid color-use acrylic paint, and then do a handprint of each of your family members on each one. My boys were so excited to help me with this project. Over the past couple of weeks, I have been painting the 5 canvases with 2-4 coats of paint, depending on the color. I picked bold, bright colors, since I will be hanging them in our classroom. Last night, we had a great family evening together, painting out hands and then doing our handprints. And if we messed up, baby wipes worked great to repair them. I must say, I think they turned out awesome. What do you think? So you're probably wondering the cost...well, here it is...$2.79 for each 8 x 10" canvas (about $14.00 total) at Michaels and about $0.75 per small (not the smallest) bottle of paint and I have a lot left over. I did get the canvases in a 3-pack that was on sale and during a sale when I could use an additional coupon. So under $20 for a beautiful wall display and great family memory! It would have been $39.99 for the kit from the site I referenced above and that's only for four. I am so thrilled about it! Hopefully we will get them hung up soon for all to see. Even our cute little 6 month old got to participate.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6dxwPJkBCaj8DIvYekpIWkxSXps7mgQbO4X1ykImMK0Gst95x8F3xgxTmlZ8km420iwyVOgD-RPPHK-HuDvp6HM-02pKMgkdzdo8ieZNfG_RsyPXYOT17UXxkK94w8uC1P-kTfXwLu3vF/s1600-h/IMG_3491.JPG" style="color: #f38c1c; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448913692107675842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6dxwPJkBCaj8DIvYekpIWkxSXps7mgQbO4X1ykImMK0Gst95x8F3xgxTmlZ8km420iwyVOgD-RPPHK-HuDvp6HM-02pKMgkdzdo8ieZNfG_RsyPXYOT17UXxkK94w8uC1P-kTfXwLu3vF/s320/IMG_3491.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: transparent; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: transparent; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: transparent; border-top-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; position: relative; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSn2QLe1PBzGMwowCb2MOXRumZ6ZhToo69xgRGRD__CoZGRxqonSn35kh_0_WpIL6_kwW18x9DSiQOXQkJ8KCULzWL7arQc_RxJ9SijOmVeEEJ6-ZjxWw8ly68eCL_pg1mlq7LgLl2rkW/s1600-h/IMG_3483.JPG" style="color: #f38c1c; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448913689576937746" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSn2QLe1PBzGMwowCb2MOXRumZ6ZhToo69xgRGRD__CoZGRxqonSn35kh_0_WpIL6_kwW18x9DSiQOXQkJ8KCULzWL7arQc_RxJ9SijOmVeEEJ6-ZjxWw8ly68eCL_pg1mlq7LgLl2rkW/s320/IMG_3483.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: transparent; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: transparent; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: transparent; border-top-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; position: relative; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9BQXaVn69oVZD0FqHL67z1TvQxVrvdfdOYFnJnpVSpsEtJ2U9wkzn8Q-OwA1Q1kZwxVJl_cYnC1vnKUXXAzauUl7n60scQX0k7qzx2ClrHku2xJQGel9Hel9T_Oi5HAyPzBA4HiNbbZS9/s1600-h/IMG_3486.JPG" style="color: #f38c1c; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448913678902610066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9BQXaVn69oVZD0FqHL67z1TvQxVrvdfdOYFnJnpVSpsEtJ2U9wkzn8Q-OwA1Q1kZwxVJl_cYnC1vnKUXXAzauUl7n60scQX0k7qzx2ClrHku2xJQGel9Hel9T_Oi5HAyPzBA4HiNbbZS9/s320/IMG_3486.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: transparent; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: transparent; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: transparent; border-top-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; position: relative; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXJtI9dZo6haX18v6qEaQRx77T-EiF_jD26WkXiRrPvmj4t24YkDaN_hPrvO6kyJ2S0gRfThwhBllUqspLrEl0gUFJbdogDHDvWpvnwvzSOWdZ1UqKNIWvDC1YZcO5oR5NRs7YB8pLk0_/s1600-h/IMG_3475.JPG" style="color: #f38c1c; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448913040408927250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXJtI9dZo6haX18v6qEaQRx77T-EiF_jD26WkXiRrPvmj4t24YkDaN_hPrvO6kyJ2S0gRfThwhBllUqspLrEl0gUFJbdogDHDvWpvnwvzSOWdZ1UqKNIWvDC1YZcO5oR5NRs7YB8pLk0_/s320/IMG_3475.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: transparent; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: transparent; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: transparent; border-top-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; position: relative; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-0pfNIHmTjkIzUg5RFKhsvbD_UviBgRDdWvmxh-LFblvlfBulnqOaQAIVm6rscrVbWZgxHzCn0fz7w-vhHdUfYo4p0JS2OdZOoA0nG6BQ4EURR80Qag6hTTYVC2nKaqaZkHfIob9Fm05/s1600-h/IMG_3499.JPG" style="color: #f38c1c; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448913035092515218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-0pfNIHmTjkIzUg5RFKhsvbD_UviBgRDdWvmxh-LFblvlfBulnqOaQAIVm6rscrVbWZgxHzCn0fz7w-vhHdUfYo4p0JS2OdZOoA0nG6BQ4EURR80Qag6hTTYVC2nKaqaZkHfIob9Fm05/s320/IMG_3499.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: transparent; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: transparent; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: transparent; border-top-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; position: relative; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07rDZH76TwllSxi0t3SpIJZGX7d33E0vUU5zgLSd6aJksrFgC79ozSAoeZimA7a5Xc7DMb_6ScJLc6KYtxT6MZvIQ-oCm_GkMxBBOE4i2eyWyHi1jS14iycoFkqRMpgLH6Lmc4rgR13_k/s1600-h/IMG_3500.JPG" style="color: #f38c1c; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448913025459882562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07rDZH76TwllSxi0t3SpIJZGX7d33E0vUU5zgLSd6aJksrFgC79ozSAoeZimA7a5Xc7DMb_6ScJLc6KYtxT6MZvIQ-oCm_GkMxBBOE4i2eyWyHi1jS14iycoFkqRMpgLH6Lmc4rgR13_k/s320/IMG_3500.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: transparent; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: transparent; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: transparent; border-top-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; position: relative; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNp_kodO1AQyAbYTD6WxZSduO0TlRTMymB18iHAe6LCO2v1zdp5yGoaF94AWgACZsbejMWU71oI1JwaVyKhHFDilA7IX3Li-ilMyhC2Q5oKaHE4IrUKXaGXzvYax2YcJDcWxBoxcaWtju/s1600-h/IMG_3506.JPG" style="color: #f38c1c; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448913010448144210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNp_kodO1AQyAbYTD6WxZSduO0TlRTMymB18iHAe6LCO2v1zdp5yGoaF94AWgACZsbejMWU71oI1JwaVyKhHFDilA7IX3Li-ilMyhC2Q5oKaHE4IrUKXaGXzvYax2YcJDcWxBoxcaWtju/s320/IMG_3506.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: transparent; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: transparent; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: transparent; border-top-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; position: relative; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e2800; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mjlFLBVxYlrV96hNrzM7_XpavfW3E5vI2gacAYfVhoK0dUHkKD533y7EPRDvwQrCr55o3WOsDycisJojtiQfWu0ETS7WjG-w3da8IUudubroj-CGW-N8Uoogtg1lMv1qMzzuCugy00Oe/s1600-h/IMG_3512.JPG" style="color: #f38c1c; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448913006590952962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mjlFLBVxYlrV96hNrzM7_XpavfW3E5vI2gacAYfVhoK0dUHkKD533y7EPRDvwQrCr55o3WOsDycisJojtiQfWu0ETS7WjG-w3da8IUudubroj-CGW-N8Uoogtg1lMv1qMzzuCugy00Oe/s320/IMG_3512.JPG" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: transparent; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: transparent; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: transparent; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-top-color: transparent; border-top-left-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-width: initial; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; position: relative; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><br />
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</div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-23563565750820382822011-03-31T11:47:00.000-07:002011-03-31T12:45:29.567-07:00Cereal Deals and FREE Milk!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8TKNHcmUXMmBE9DvLzNWc8jOKt995OQ3kG1Oz9gKhhal2s-fjUNjkSjOOvMoNHLBR0ILuqWAi9T31YoWnf0e9TkfK5-5qc3XxDdmt4uO83PstV8_Q-9qgjtIvcP_Zlu7ZXJPncF37hBx/s1600/IMG_9657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8TKNHcmUXMmBE9DvLzNWc8jOKt995OQ3kG1Oz9gKhhal2s-fjUNjkSjOOvMoNHLBR0ILuqWAi9T31YoWnf0e9TkfK5-5qc3XxDdmt4uO83PstV8_Q-9qgjtIvcP_Zlu7ZXJPncF37hBx/s320/IMG_9657.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Our local grocery stores here in the Delaware Valley have been having some great deals on cereal and offers for free milk when you buy a certain number of boxes. Today, I just got back from Giant with 4 boxes of General Mills cereal and a gallon of milk for only <b>$4.36 total</b>! Here was the deal: <br />
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Purchase 4 boxes of GM cereal, any variety/size and get $6 off instantly at checkout.<br />
I had 4 coupons (one per box) from online (coupons.com) and from the Smart Source section (or smartsource.com) of the Sunday paper (it was either this past Sunday or the one before), that were all doubled, giving me another $4.20 off. I tried to pick the best coupons for the least expensive cereals.<br />
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It was like getting each box of name brand cereal for <b>$1.09/box and a free gallon of milk</b>. In case you can't make it to Giant tonight before the sale ends, no worries, the deals continue this week at Acme, starting tomorrow, April 1.<br />
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Select Kellogg's cereals (and Pop Tarts) are on sale, 3 boxes for $5, and on top of that you can get a FREE gallon of milk with every three boxes purchased (note: any variety of Kellogg's works for the milk deal, but only a select few are on sale). Kellogg's coupons are a little bit harder to find than General Mills ones, but I just signed up today on the <a href="http://www2.kelloggs.com/">Kellogg's website</a> and found some coupons on there. I printed two of the ones for $1.00/3 boxes because it looks like that coupon includes the same ones on the Acme deal (3 boxes for $5). So, starting tomorrow you should be able to get 3 boxes of cereal for $4 and a free gallon of milk (or 6 boxes and 2 gallons of milk for $8 if you print two coupons). This deal will make each box only $1.25 and you will get free milk! <br />
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In case you didn't know this trick, just click the back button after you print one coupon and then you can print your second one. There are other coupons available on the website too for other Kellogg's varieties. Anybody know where there are any other Kellogg's coupons floating around?Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-32955536972825081722011-03-24T12:05:00.000-07:002011-03-24T12:05:49.878-07:00Parents Magazine for only $1!Barnes and Noble (bn.com) has PARENTS Magazine on sale for only $4.97. Use this code: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2b2b; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px;">K4M8W9D </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2b2b; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">and get it for only $1. This magazine has had some hot coupons for Amazon.com lately, so it is well worth the $1 investment. And don't forget to order through <a href="http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=cq7xQ8XCAETA7RbIUlq%2Ffg%3D%3D">Ebates.com </a>and get 4% cash back. Thanks to <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/2011/03/one-year-subscription-to-parents-magazine-for-1-available-again.html">Money Saving Mom</a> for the heads-up!</span>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-10502358183452388472011-03-14T19:39:00.000-07:002011-03-14T19:42:53.541-07:00Homeschool Freebie of the Day!Are you homeschooling your children? Do you plan to homeschool in the future? Do you love free stuff? Well, I have a site I want to tell you about. I recently discovered <a href="http://www.homeschoolfreebie.wholesomechildhood.com/">Homeschool Freebie</a>, a site that offers free homeschool resources to homeschooling families. They offer a "Freebie of the Day" each and every day of the week, Monday-Friday. The best way to find out about the upcoming freebies is to be on their email list. I get an email every Sunday with the upcoming freebies. You can read more about this site <a href="http://www.homeschoolfreebie.wholesomechildhood.com/about/">here</a> and join the email list <a href="http://www.homeschoolfreebie.wholesomechildhood.com/join-list/">here</a>. If it is something you are interested in, you need to download the PDF that day, as it may not be offered as a freebie again. I have already downloaded some great resources to add to my own collection. I am excited about this week's freebies of the day, <u>The Big Handbook of Nature Study</u> by Anna Botsford Comstock (Part II--bird study and fish study is also available for download today). And I am pretty sure that each day this week will be a new freebie in this series. This looks like it will be very helpful for future science lessons with my boys! Happy homeschooling!<br />
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</span></span>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-69765036176491847972011-03-08T10:25:00.000-08:002011-03-09T17:41:33.171-08:00Black Bean and Quinoa Burritos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As promised, I wanted to share this recipe that I made up a few weeks ago with Quinoa with all of you. You can read more about this nutritious stuff <a href="http://frugaladventure.blogspot.com/2011/03/quinoa-gluten-free-and-very-nutritious.html">here</a>. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Here's what you need:</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 cup Quinoa</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 cups of water</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 beef bouillon cube</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 Tbsp. oil</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 red pepper, finely chopped</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 onion, minced</div><div style="text-align: left;">approx. 1 Tbsp. chili powder</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 Tbsp. cumin (give or take a little)</div><div style="text-align: left;">salt and pepper to taste</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 can black beans, rinsed and drained</div><div style="text-align: left;">6-8 tortillas</div><div style="text-align: left;">Cheddar cheese </div><div style="text-align: left;">Salsa (optional)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Sour cream (optional)</div><br />
Soften the veggies in the oil. Add water, Quinoa and bouillon cube. Bring to boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes until the Quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat.<br />
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Mix in spices and beans. Heat the tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a large frying pan with cooking spray over medium heat for a couple of minutes until warm, turning once. Fill each tortilla with about 1/2 cup of Quinoa/bean mixture (give or take) and add desired toppings. Wrap it up and enjoy!!! (This mixture can also be combined with ground beef or turkey to stretch your meat, but it if very filling without the meat). We actually prefer it without meat.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And I am very happy to report that you can freeze them and use them for later meals. They are great for lunches too. After you fill the tortillas, wrap them in a paper towel and then a piece of aluminum foil. Place in the freezer. When you are ready to eat them, unwrap the foil, but leave it in the paper towel. Microwave on High for about 60-90 seconds. Enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Let me know if you try them and what you think!Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-7190455746704994492011-03-05T12:52:00.000-08:002011-03-05T12:52:28.262-08:00New Rite Aid Surveys: $3 off/$15 purchase<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7araWjyJvC7dMtZGio9SiJ_b_04xFwWUqwO3V1cvzPoSXuKtYKGfAmW4QlFyA2YOpCF9l4Yr2toO68KxiXsMjIGLV1NVMirTEmSmcv6eGeYTlan8Y4ijWGGnj2vp5asAunCEGxP-1Vllz/s1600/IMG_9193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7araWjyJvC7dMtZGio9SiJ_b_04xFwWUqwO3V1cvzPoSXuKtYKGfAmW4QlFyA2YOpCF9l4Yr2toO68KxiXsMjIGLV1NVMirTEmSmcv6eGeYTlan8Y4ijWGGnj2vp5asAunCEGxP-1Vllz/s400/IMG_9193.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
If you are a Rite Aid shopper you will be happy to know that there is a new customer satisfaction survey that prints on the bottom of some of your receipts. When you complete this new survey online, you will be eligible for a coupon for $3 off a $15 or more purchase. Usually at the bottom of the receipt there is a code for a phone survey that enters you into a contest to win $10,000, but occasionally you may get this new code for the online survey. Honestly, I rather do the online survey and get the coupon. In my last three visits to the store, I got two opportunities for the coupon survey. You must complete it within 14 days and use your coupon within fourteen days of completing the survey. I don't know for sure, but I think you are only eligible for the coupon up to 3 times per month. Have you gotten any yet?Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-47693473503662746092011-03-03T13:17:00.000-08:002011-03-03T13:19:20.152-08:00Quinoa-Gluten Free and Very Nutritious!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhejjXC5Xcx7JsqGVfJd81KKodAD9qvDbbpzQBowE-p6qEbgkDjA6pPmypWqseLThqrlyBFmSGqveBaMjgWAA5_ObXhmGurMO4qCInO1ftIpSqxnZ4sAULYcVVjII9K5O2Y-PPW55MSi2oc/s1600/IMG_8800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhejjXC5Xcx7JsqGVfJd81KKodAD9qvDbbpzQBowE-p6qEbgkDjA6pPmypWqseLThqrlyBFmSGqveBaMjgWAA5_ObXhmGurMO4qCInO1ftIpSqxnZ4sAULYcVVjII9K5O2Y-PPW55MSi2oc/s320/IMG_8800.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Have you ever heard of it? Well, it is our family's new favorite side dish and is a great alternative to rice, pasta, and couscous. My husband has had to make some significant dietary changes lately due to some health issues and we were very excited to find Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) at our local Costco. We were hesitant to buy this highly nutritious, gluten free seed because of the price, about $9.50 for a 4 pound bag. (The are 42 1/4 cup dry servings per bag making it about $0.22/serving). But after trying it for the first time back in January, we are hooked. We are big fans of this yummy stuff. Yes, you can probably get a 1 pound bag of non-instant brown rice (instant stuff is quite a bit more) at Walmart for about $1.50 (about 7 cents a serving), but it probably doesn't expand as much as this Quinoa does nor can you say that it is a great source of protein (5.5 grams per 1/4 dry serving), contains all 8 amino acids which is very good for you vegetarians out there, fiber, B vitamins, and iron (18%). I couldn't believe how much the one cup expanded the first time I made it. I made it into a pilaf with some veggies and walnuts and there was probably enough to serve 6 adults a nice size serving. You get a lot of bang for your buck! It is well worth the investment for a healthier alternative to rice and such. And the taste....so good! It is very filling and has a "nutty" kind of flavor. My husband actually frowns now when I make rice instead of Quinoa. You can serve it as a side dish with veggies, with soup, add it to chili, and mix up for a filling for your burritos and tacos. I am so excited to say that I actually have made up my own recipe for Black Bean and Quinoa Burritos that I will be sharing soon. Have you ever heard of Quinoa? Do you like it?Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-85035098074936000252011-02-23T11:26:00.000-08:002011-02-23T11:26:45.236-08:00Homemade Ice cream/Snow cream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL5mxXdbMWF-FWioD1ngjTq6ihPTO_zPKAGdPsqIuroQhbOVeeVzqRUd7RiRGOTU4QbPR4jXI-1mI35Rt1u1u8pi_22IVR6kH0qvQdoZFinIIFEPT7JD_Cx35BFvTtsxF0aQaTTTKq89Wd/s1600/IMG_9048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL5mxXdbMWF-FWioD1ngjTq6ihPTO_zPKAGdPsqIuroQhbOVeeVzqRUd7RiRGOTU4QbPR4jXI-1mI35Rt1u1u8pi_22IVR6kH0qvQdoZFinIIFEPT7JD_Cx35BFvTtsxF0aQaTTTKq89Wd/s320/IMG_9048.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Last night, we finally made homemade ice cream out of snow. It was super easy, fun, frugal, and quite tasty. It was a great thing to do as a family as well. My boys loved it! Here's the recipe:<br />
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1 large bowl/pan of fresh, clean snow<br />
1 can of evaporated milk<br />
1 cup of sugar<br />
2 tsp. of vanilla<br />
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Mix everything together (pour milk in last) and eat immediately. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHytuyiMDZfkNWweXWkcbEmXK2Y5JeHgdC0Y90supLnRuMw9okwQmkN45LQ5hkRQ31QJEOZWmc7iCbhLomdUMFegZ6-2Z9sw1U8_uClHOVL046-hzQvikRZ71DbPl756HNECS9BFZ87UdZ/s1600/IMG_9075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHytuyiMDZfkNWweXWkcbEmXK2Y5JeHgdC0Y90supLnRuMw9okwQmkN45LQ5hkRQ31QJEOZWmc7iCbhLomdUMFegZ6-2Z9sw1U8_uClHOVL046-hzQvikRZ71DbPl756HNECS9BFZ87UdZ/s320/IMG_9075.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-26172152137029051122011-02-19T13:45:00.000-08:002011-02-19T13:45:43.493-08:00Walgreen's Diapers $1.50/Jumbo Pack!!!!Get them while you can! I just got back from Walgreen's and I couldn't wait to post about a deal going on right now (today is the last day) on diapers. You can get jumbo packs of diapers for only $1.50/pack. That's 5 cents/diaper for size 5 and about 4 cents/diaper for size 4. It would be even less per diaper if you get the smaller sizes. So here's what you do...go and pick up two jumbo packs of the Walgreen's diapers, they are on sale for $6.99 <b>AND are but one get one free</b>. Next, go to the pharmacy counter (that's where to go at the Main St. Walgreen's in Middletown) and get the "Infant Care" coupon booklet. Inside you find a coupon for $2/pack of Walgreen's diapers. Give it to the cashier with your diapers and you will actually get $4 off because you have two packs. Yeah! $2.99 out of pocket for at least 54 diapers (size 5). I got four packs today (did two transactions) and only paid about $6. And, by the way, if they are out of the size you need, get a rain check and save your coupons. They don't expire until 12/2011. I ended up getting a rain check too, so I can go back and buy some more size 5's soon. If you can't find the "Infant Care" coupon booklet ask an associate/manager for help. Even though I use cloth diapers most of the time, this deal was well worth it for me for the times I do use disposables (i.e. at night, trips, etc.). And I don't know much about Walgreen's diapers, but again, at that price, if I use more than usual, I am fine with that!Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-76876908324521634852011-02-16T14:38:00.000-08:002011-02-17T08:35:22.658-08:00My Favorite Sugar Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJo-nYeRYcF87kkZJ8TUn8hLWG9gElUnXzIxuBUaVPihtVqXz6_t9r_JUgMflcbPlXE8319n7CAI2dHmZrCGg9Yj3HqA9TuQk7z1kpVNVVVo6Qes_8ewLmCkFP-cVOmG0jrkVk7p1Wvb7y/s1600/IMG_8928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJo-nYeRYcF87kkZJ8TUn8hLWG9gElUnXzIxuBUaVPihtVqXz6_t9r_JUgMflcbPlXE8319n7CAI2dHmZrCGg9Yj3HqA9TuQk7z1kpVNVVVo6Qes_8ewLmCkFP-cVOmG0jrkVk7p1Wvb7y/s320/IMG_8928.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Cookies are one of my weaknesses, especially delicious sugar cookies. Well, after several years of trying different recipes, I think I have a favorite and<a href="http://www.recipelink.com/mf/14/15274"> I want to share it</a>. I found it last summer on a recipe forum website from a fellow "Yinzer". It didn't call for vanilla though, so I changed it, because other recipes that I have tried have vanilla in it. They actually remind me of Eat 'n Park Smiley Face Cookies. Some of you may not know what those are, but they are some of the best sugar cookies in the world from a restaurant chain in Western PA. I had so much fun making Valentine's Day cookies with my boys on Monday and then giving them away to a bunch of people at our local YMCA. Sugar cookies are great year-round, not just for Christmas. I prefer them with icing too, but you can leave that off and just decorate them before you bake them. And do you know the secret to shiny icing? Corn syrup! Enjoy! Save yourself some money and make cookies and give them away as gifts (or to cheer someone up) instead of buying something. Your kids will love having some special treats around too!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Yummy Sugar Cookies</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 cup sugar</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 cup shortening (I used butter flavored Crisco)</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 cup milk (I used whole this time, but any is fine)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 eggs, beaten</div><div style="text-align: left;">4-5 cups of flour (I started with 4 and then added more since the dough was still sticky)<br />
6 teaspoons baking powder<br />
3 teaspoons vanilla<br />
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Cream sugar, shortening, milk, vanilla, and eggs. Add flour and baking powder. Chill dough for 30-60 minutes to make it easier to work with. Roll out the dough onto a floured surface and use cookie cutters for desired shapes. Place on un-greased (they work with greased too) cookie sheet and bake at 400 for 13-15 minutes, don't over-bake. Let cool completely on wire rack before icing and decorating.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Icing</div></div><div style="text-align: left;">1 cup powdered sugar<br />
2 tsp. milk (I tend to use a little extra, if it seems to thick)<br />
2 tsp. light corn syrup<br />
1/4 tsp.vanilla<br />
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Stir powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Beat in corn syrup and vanilla until smooth and glossy. (I usually double it).</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimt9x2wGw0dkskC4ItCWgi66YlbmzxF0LAI4GgXfDM7hxu62ftlHKIzelCKm6sVpZgQWZj2UJexSXG8k-xEUfGxkBhonJ0raeVY6C7eeubfdb1nUHNhBlCUrbT0z8eQMpmacXNVEO23nm/s1600/IMG_8931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimt9x2wGw0dkskC4ItCWgi66YlbmzxF0LAI4GgXfDM7hxu62ftlHKIzelCKm6sVpZgQWZj2UJexSXG8k-xEUfGxkBhonJ0raeVY6C7eeubfdb1nUHNhBlCUrbT0z8eQMpmacXNVEO23nm/s320/IMG_8931.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006583109368298158.post-92073217824951746492011-02-11T17:54:00.000-08:002011-02-16T18:12:39.921-08:00Homemade Pizza Perfected<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhywucwZ7mmhgLPoZKI8_easGBqLSIH-d2KrIkutBe4iy9NbsjKruSe-DtPC_ufFOnJ-OTlOKf9Foye0aJLY-L_Aw-Dc4-jsFvKbC6CPR7fJZ_M_EhDeXY0AcfWscli9RlIx0HQ8j_jSdut/s1600/IMG_8811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhywucwZ7mmhgLPoZKI8_easGBqLSIH-d2KrIkutBe4iy9NbsjKruSe-DtPC_ufFOnJ-OTlOKf9Foye0aJLY-L_Aw-Dc4-jsFvKbC6CPR7fJZ_M_EhDeXY0AcfWscli9RlIx0HQ8j_jSdut/s400/IMG_8811.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I am so sorry it has been awhile since I have posted. Not so sure anyone even stops by, but if you do, thank you! Life with three young boys is really keeping me busy! Anyway, a long time ago, I think back when I started this blog, I wrote a post about homemade whole wheat (not entirely whole wheat) pizza. Oh, <a href="http://frugaladventure.blogspot.com/2009/03/homemade-pizza.html">here's the link for you to check out</a>, in case you missed it before. I am happy to say that after over two years of making this pizza, I have some tips to make it even more delicious. We eat it almost every Friday night and we never seem to get enough of it. Seriously, <a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=10000001036306">try the recipe</a> from Cooking Light .<br />
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Tips for a perfect pizza:<br />
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1. The recipe says to have the "warm water" be between 100-110 degrees. Yes, I actually use my candy thermometer to measure the temperature and make sure it falls within the range. That is the best temperature to activate the yeast properly, at least I think so! My friend laughed at me when she found out I did that, but then she tasted our pizza and agreed it tastes quite good.<br />
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</div> 2. If using a pizza stone, heat the stone in the oven before baking the pizza. I usually leave it in the oven for at least 5 minutes. I don't heat up my cookie sheets though, just the stone, since it seems to take a little longer to get hot.<br />
3. Sprinkle some corn meal on your pizza stone and/or cookie sheet, before putting the crust on it.<br />
4. Try to roll out (or do the fancy hand thing like they do in the pizza shops) the dough as thin as possible for a crisper crust--that's what we prefer.<br />
5. Be careful not to use too much sauce as it will make the crust mushy...just a light/thin layer.<br />
6. I bake the crust first for about 7-9 minutes and then I take it out, put the toppings on, and place it back in the oven for another 8 minutes, until the cheese is melted completely.<br />
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Enjoy! I really hope you enjoy this pizza as much as we do. If you get in the habit of making homemade pizza you can save so much money and you realized it tastes so much better. <br />
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I recently made my own version of a white veggie pizza and I thought I would share that with you too! I follow the same recipe for the crust. For the sauce I used about 4 small cloves of garlic (minced), 3-4 Tbsp. olive oil (give or take a little), 3-4 tsp. Italian seasoning, and a few dashes of salt and pepper. Mix together in a small bowl and brush over the pre-baked crust. Add any veggies you like. I used steamed broccoli and spinach. Next, I sprinkled with some mozzarella and feta and baked it for an additional 7-8 minutes, or until cheese is melted. I just made another tonight and it was great!<br />
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Do you have a pizza recipe you prefer? Any tips for a great pizza?<br />
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<span id="goog_458786842"></span>Maurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08423289449163029472noreply@blogger.com2