Money & Making Change DVD Review and Giveaway

Want to help your child get a head start in life? Many times education is the one area that you can help your child greatly. Rock & Learn Money & Making Change can help your child learn something that not only will help them in the education but also learn something that they will have to know through thier walk on life.

Characters Penny and Bill know how to shake things up when it comes to counting money and making change. I love it when fun is put into learning as I feel that it makes the lessons learned stay around. The DVD offers songs and games that help provide plenty o practice with real - world skills. After all making change is something that we all do nearly every day of our life. Buy a coke, work at a burger shop, pay bills and the list goes on and on. We make change throughout our lives when we shop, when we work and the list goes on and on. The DVD Money & Making Change offers the viewer lessons about individual coins and how they relate to one another.  Learn how to count cash through practices like "skip counting" Nearly everyone will write a check some day and will need to know how to express money in written terms this DVD will help them learn just how to do that. The DVD is recommended for children 6 and up.

Buy: you can purchase the video here

Win a copy of the DVD Money & Making Change. To enter giveaway simply share with me who in your life would benefit from this DVD

we received a copy of this DVD for review purposes. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are those of mine alone

PurpleTrail Designs

PurpleTrail Designs are your card makers for every need. I was sent a variety of cards some time back and I have shared a few of them with friends. They have really liked them and I believe you would as well. One of my favorite type of cards is a baby announcement. Now ofcourse many of you know exactly why this card would be my favorite and you would be correct. I am still reeling over the excitment of having our little prince being added to our family. With the Purple Trail baby announcement cards the card recievers would know exactly how much joy I feel. You can design your cards using the wording and even pictures that you want to . Visit PurpleTrail to see for yourself how great the card you design could look

Aloha Friday

Recently I was able to spend some time in a farm store It instantly sent me back to my childhood years and the time that I spent at my grandparents farm. I ended up buying a few plants that I can make a nice spring garden with. One thing that made my mind really go back to the past and my childhood was the baby chicks. Each spring my dad and grandmother would purchase chicks. They would be delivered and picked up at the post office and taken to the farm though rather than coming from a store. My question for this aloha friday is 

do you have any special spring memories of your child and if so I would love to hear it.

SwaddleDesigns Review and Giveaway

Recently I was introduced to the newest member of my family. This new member is a tiny little fellow but adorable and loves to be cuddled. Let me introduce you to a picture of the little guy of whom I refer to

This is a picture of my little grandson and his mama is seen cuddling him. He loves to be swaddled and when I was sent a swaddling blanket from SwaddleDesigns I was delighted. The precious gift of swaddling our little one was improved with the style and comfort of the SwaddleDesigns swaddling blanket.

Its hard for me to switch gears from the pink that I have bought so much of over the past two years to colors for little boys. Now to Papa this is the best thing ever a boy he can do manly things with. My little Prince needed a manly style of blanket and was so happy to receive the lime on brown patterned swaddling blanket.  

A Bit About SwaddleDesigns 

SwaddleDesigns is focused on offering stylish, innovative, modern and quality baby products. The CEO and Creative Director of SwaddleDesigns is Lynette Damir an RN. Along with her husband Lynette founded SwaddleDesigns in 2002. As a registered nurse Lynette would often go into homes of new babies and find that the family would struggle with swaddling their young one. I must say that swaddling is not something that comes naturally with mothering skills or at least it did not for me. I love the nurse that took the time while I was still in the hospital with my first little one that took the time to show me how to swaddle her. I in return gave my daughter a lesson in swaddling when Princess was born. There are two main areas in which Lynette found individuals struggle with swaddling their babies. First the blankets were often too small or too thick and second the steps of swaddling were not easy for some to remember.
 Lynette designed the swaddling blanket using her background knowledge of nursing as well as art designing. The Ultimate Swaddling Blanket would be large and square and the swaddling instructions would be sewn to the edge of the blanket so that parents would have the steps at their fingertips. The first customer was a major hospital that purchased 4,000 blankets because they understood how important it was to swaddle babies and could see the educational value of SwaddleDesigns.
 Importance of Swaddling
Swaddling allows babies to transition more easily from the womb to the world I can very easily see the importance of this because for over 9 months the little one is cradled inside the mothers womb and then in an instance (I know it is not really that quick) the little one is born into the big open world. Swaddling allows the little one the reassurance that they are safe and secure. Studies show that the incidence of SIDS have been reduced because of swaddling. Swaddling allows parents to get a bit of a break as well as help babies to sleep better and longer as well as decreases awakenings due to startle reflex. Some babies just can not sleep if there is noise around and others like some of mine a marching band could go through and our little one would sleep. I think it is wonderful for those that startle easy that the swaddling can help. 
 SwaddleDesigns Line of Products

SwaddleDesigns may have started out being a company that sold swaddle blankets but like all great things it has grown. Lynette is still very active selecting all SwaddleDesigns products, exclusive prints, and bases her decisions on color, texture, durability and quality. She designs with the baby's and parents best interest in mind. That is why SwaddleDesigns has become a trusted quality product. SwaddleDesigns are recommended by doctors, nurses, doulas, and parent educators.
The SwaddleDesigns line includes many layette essentials including the zzZipMe Sack™ wearable blanket, stroller blankets, bibs, hooded towels, washcloths, a luxurious home collection with adult size blankets and throws, and a luscious certified organic cotton collection.

Buy: SwaddleDesigns products make great affordable gifts for new moms and are perfect for baby shower gifts.  You can take pride in the fact that you are giving a quality American made gift. SwaddleDesigns are certified organic and domestic fabrics, sustainable fibers, recycled fibers, and recyclable packaging 

 

Win: one of Annies Home readers will be able to win a swaddling blanket of their own. To enter this giveaway Visit http://www.swaddledesigns.com/  and comment on your favorite product (mandatory entry without doing this first extra entries do not count)

 

Extra Entries:

• http://twitter.com/swaddledesigns and tweet about your favorite SwaddleDesigns print or product @SwaddleDesigns (1 entry and must include @SwaddleDesigns)
• like Swaddle Designs on facebook and share your favorite SwaddleDesigns print or product as well as that you was sent over by Annies Home. By becoming a facebook fan you will get the inside scoop, previews of new collections and Fan discounts!
• follow my blog
• follow my blog on twitter and tweet about the giveaway (1 entry per tweet unlimited include link in comment)
• share this giveaway on facebook or your giveaway (5 entries each) leave link
• enter any other current giveaway on my blog (2 entries each)
• comment on any post on my blog (2 entries each)

Giveaway starts now and ends march 24, 2011 good luck Email must be included in comment or on blog profile or entries will not count

I would like to thank SwaddleDesigns for sending me a great blanket to review as well as sponsor giveaway, The thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are those of mine alone

  

Baby Banz EarMuffs Review and Giveaway

As many of you know I am a mother of six and a grandma of two. Yes that is right Princess is not the only one now she has a brother the Prince. My job as mom and grandma is to protect them with all my abilities. I take this job very serious and love it so much so when I find products on the market that will help me to protect my family I stand up and pay attention. Baby Banz is one of the great companies that offers products that will help protect children.

A bit of information about Baby Banz

Baby Banz were first sold in Australia in 2001. An Australian mom was unable to find a proper pair of baby sunglasses for her infant son and this led her to take action. The action led her to starting a company known as Baby Banz. In 2002 Baby Banz was introduced in America. Now, Baby Banz offers baby and children's sunglasses and UV protection world wide. The Baby Banz line of products includes adjustable baby and toddler sun hats, UPF 50 swimwear and flap hats, cool looking retro banz and in the winter Baby Banz offers ski Banz. The goal of Baby Banz is to preserve the sensitive eyes and precious skin of little ones everywhere. Baby Banz will continue to develop UV protection gear such as sunglasses, hats, swimwear and accessories that not only protect little ones from the suns UV rays but also are comfortable, fun to wear and strong enough to last.

Baby Banz Eye Protection
In a previous post here on my blog Annies Home I shared with you about the UV protection that Baby Banz sunglasses and hats provide. Every one of my children have enjoyed spending time outside the only drawback are the dangerous UV rays that the sun gives off. Baby Banz has created a way to allow our children to play outside and help protect their little eyes through the glasses that they offer. 

Baby Banz protects their Ears as Well

Baby Banz can help protect your childrens ears. Children ears are often more sensitive to sound and noise and therefore need more protection for their little ears than adults do. Baby Banz hearing protectors work by blocking out harmful loud noises without shutting out other important sounds. One quality of the ear muffs is that they slip easily on and off. They remind me of padded headphones with their foam filled cushions that pad the ears and ensure that they do not squeeze the head uncomfortably making sure that the ears have plenty of room. The ear muffs are also light in weight ensuring the comfort of the person wearing them. Baby Banz ear muffs are perfect for 

•helping out to mow the yard or with workshop projects

•going to sporting events, car races or air shows

•water skiing, boating and other water sports

•music concerts or band rehearsals

•watching shooting or gun competitions and hunting

•calming young children in noisy environments


Buy: you can purchase Baby Banz protective wear on their website located at http://usa.babybanz.com 

Win: Baby Banz is offering one of Annies Home readers their own set of ear muff hearing protectors.

To Win: visit Baby Banz's and let me know your favorite color of ear muffs

Extra Entries:

• follow my blog
• subscribe to my blog Annies Home via feed or email
• follow Baby Banz on twitter
• like Baby Banz on facebook
• follow my blog on twitter 
• tweet about the giveaway (1 entry per tweet unlimited)
• share this giveaway on facebook, your blog or other giveaway list (5 entries each) leave link in comment
• comment on any post on my blog (2 entries each unlimited)

Good Luck Giveaway starts now and ends March 24, 2011. Email must be in comment or on blog profile. 

I thank Baby Banz for the product they provided for review and giveaway opportunities. The thoughts and opinions are those of mine and others may or may not agree with them 





I am Very Thankful

To God, I'm Thankful

I’m thankful for each strand of hair
That grows upon my head
I’m thankful for the clothes I wear
And for a nice warm bed.

I’m thankful for the caring friends
Who make me feel so glad
I’m thankful for a doctor’s care
When I am feeling bad.

I’m thankful for my family
Who cheer me when I’m blue
I’m thankful for the U.S.A.
And for our soldiers too.

I’m thankful for the gentle rains
That fall upon the earth
I’m thankful for the life it brings
And for a baby’s birth.

I’m thankful for a sky of red
In early morning light
I’m thankful for the setting sun
And for the stars at night.

I’m thankful for a place to pray
And for the books I read
I’m thankful for a loving God
Who meets my every need.

Author/Written By:
Marilyn Ferguson
©2005


My list of things that I am thankful for include

• my husband and family and the love that we have for each other
• my job and those that I not only work with but care for as well
• the beautiful weather that we have been able to enjoy even on gloomy days like today you know that soon the sun will shine

With those top three reasons I can also say that I am thankful for having a blessed life.



shared here

Welcome To My blog

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http://thefrugalfreegal.com/2011/03/friday-blog-hop-311-link-up-your-blogs-and-follow-others/

 

Thanks for stopping by my blog here you will find some great recipes, crafts and giveaways .

Recipes you may be interested in include:

St. Patricks Day Lucky Smoothie
Rainbow Cake
Crazy Lazy Lasagna
Chicken Cashew Stir Fry
Aunt Betty Filling Soup

Crafts you may be interested that you can find on my blog include:

lollipop shamrock
paper plate mardi gras mask
St. Patricks Day Craft
Envelope Easter Bunny
Ways To Die Easter Eggs

Top Current Post on my blog:

Eden Fantasy $50 gc giveaway
Easter Egg Cake
Bummas Review and Giveaway
Mardi Gras King Cake
Irish Dessert for St. Patricks Day

Current Giveaways on my blog

Kids n Pets cleaner giveaway ends 3/19
Bummas Baby Wipes 3/19
Eden Fantasys $50 gc giveaway ends 3/17

Stir Fry Pasta Primevera

3 cups broccoli florets


12 ounces fettuccine pasta

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 red onion, halved lengthwise and sliced 1/4 inch thick

4 carrots, sliced 1/4 inch thick

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Salt and pepper

3/4 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the broccoli until bright green, about 30 seconds. Transfer to a colander, reserving the water in the pot. Add the pasta to the pot and cook until al dente; drain, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water. Meanwhile, heat a 14-inch, flat-bottomed wok over high heat until a bead of water vaporizes upon contact. Swirl in 1 tablespoon oil. Add the onion and, using a metal spatula, stir-fry until it is fragrant, about 1 minute. Swirl in the remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Add the broccoli and carrots and stir-fry until the carrots begin to wilt, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, season with salt and pepper and stir-fry for 1 minute. Swirl in the cream, bring to a boil and remove from the heat. Stir in the parmesan and basil. Add the pasta and the reserved cooking water to the wok and toss to coat; season with salt and pepper

recipe source: racheal ray online mag

shared on

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Lollipop Shamrock

•Three green lollipops

•Twist tie



•Ribbon



•Tape or hot glue

•Large safety pin



.



Crisscross two lollipops and place one lollipop in the middle to form a shamrock. Secure lollipops with a twist tie and decorate with a ribbon. With the help of an adult, use either a strong piece of tape or hot glue to attach a large safety pin to the back of the top lollipop. Let glue dry. Pin on clothes to ward off St. Patrick's Day pinches!


source:

national geographic

Lucky Smoothie for St Patricks Day or Any Day

•2 (peeled) kiwis


•1 frozen banana

•1/2 cup (120 mL) vanilla yogurt

•Splash of milk

•Dab of honey

•Green food coloring (optional)

.

Put all of the ingredients into a blender and puree until smooth. Serve in a chilled glass.



recipe source National Geographic

Ranch Chicken & Rice Bake

3/4 cup uncooked long grain rice
3/4 cup water
3/4 cup milk
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 (16-ounce) package frozen vegetable combination (broccoli, cauliflower & carrots)
2 tablespoons Land O Lakes® Butter, melted
2 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons dried bread crumbs
1 tablespoon dried ranch dip seasoning mix*
4 (4- to 6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts

Heat oven to 400°F. Spray 13x9-inch (3-quart) baking dish with no-stick cooking spray. Combine rice, water, milk, soup and vegetables in large bowl. Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish. Combine butter and mustard in small bowl. Combine Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs and seasoning mix in pie plate; mix well. Brush each chicken breast with mustard mixture; dip in bread crumb mixture, turning and pressing to coat all sides. Place chicken on top of rice mixture. Cover tightly; bake for 40 minutes. Uncover; continue baking for 15 to 25 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink and rice is tender. Remove from oven. Let stand 10 minutes.

recipe source: landolakes

shared on

rainbow cake

find out how to make this great looking cake here

Tips saving money while on vacation

Does your family try to get away some time during the year? Our family tries to come together for a family style reunion to catch up with each other. With the price of gas going up many families may start to think that they may forgo the yearly family get away. With careful planning and a few money saving tips the plan for getting away does not have to be post-poned. Rather a family who is mindful of the circumstances and has a keen eye for being resourceful can enjoy a wonderful get away. My top 10 ideas for getting out with family and enjoying a get away from home start with Using resources such as the Alamo Insiders can help you find deals that are out there.

• Looking for hotels that cater to families. Some hotels will allow children to stay free while others offer movies and game rentals.
• Meals on the road are one place that using wise resources will come into play. Local coupon books,  newspaper coupons and eating at discount times will all save you money. It is also wise to eat at all you can eat smorgasbords that allow you to fill up and are normally not much higher in price  than fast food meals.
• Look for hotels that offer discounts at local attractions possibly theme parks or water parks for staying at their location. Again many times there are coupon books that will allow you to save money on local attractions as well
•  Hotel lobbies often have brochures that share local attractions in these same pamphlets may be coupons with $$ off or group discounts.
• Take advantage of hotels that offer free breakfast, nightly appetizers or light meals, or free beverages. These small discounts can help you save money on snacks, drinks and even meals. You can then use this money so that your family can enjoy their selves in other ways.
• Taking your own snacks on road trips where you will be driving for many yours where you will get hungry and you know your children will as children often do will save you money. Gas stations and the so forth do not offer the best snacks in the department of nutrition or price. Packing some of your own snacks will save you money, time and be better for you. If you happen to run out of snacks visit a grocery store the snacks you find there will normally be better than the ones that you find at convenience stores.
• Don't be afraid to ask for discounts. Facilities such as auto club members, AARP members, and other major groups often offer discounts that are not always advertised in travel literature. 
• As I mentioned before gas prices are often what makes families take a second look at whether they will take a vacation or not. Keep in mind that gas in cities is often lower than that found in outlying areas and small towns. If you happen to see gas at a good price it is a great idea to fill up while you can.
• Parking at major attractions is something that can often be overpriced. Be sensible about this look for parking that is cheaper or free that is located close to the attraction but may require a little walking. If you are like me you may just enjoy the extra bit of walking. Just be sure to look for signs where you park that does not deem "no parking zone" or other signs that do not allow parking. If you park in the wrong place it may cost you more to get your car back than it does to park. 
• Perhaps the best tip that I can share is enjoy your trip keep a running budget and be aware of what you are spending but enjoy the get away with your family.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Alamo blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here

Cooking With Kids Crazy Lazy Lasagna

1 large zucchini


1 15-ounce container lowfat or nonfat ricotta cheese

2 large eggs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, or 2 teaspoons dried basil

1 recipe Twice-as-Red Tomato Sauce

1/2 pound lasagna noodles, uncooked


Using a grater, shred the zucchini, discarding the knobby stem. (Be careful not to grate your fingers.) In a mixing bowl, stir together the zucchini, ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan, and basil until blended. To assemble the lasagna, spread 1-1/2 cups of sauce into a 13x9x2 inch pan. Arrange 1/3 of the uncooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, breaking the noodles to fit if necessary. (Don't worry about gaps: the noodles will expand during cooking.) Layer half the ricotta mixture on the noodles.
Layer the remaining ingredients in the following order: half of the remaining noodles, half of the remaining sauce, all of the remaining ricotta mixture. Complete the dish with a layer of noodles topped with the rest of sauce. Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly on top of the sauce. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 50 minutes. Let sit 5 minutes before removing the foil. Dust with Parmesan as desired before serving.

recipe source here

shared on

recipe Swap Meet Thursday

What Makes One Lucky

Many have their own opinion on what makes an individual lucky or unlucky. My grandmother used to always say that is the blessings that God gives one that makes them lucky. A friend of mine used to say there is no lucky in life that is up to the individual to make their own luck in life. I have heard it be said that if it were not for bad luck there would be no luck at all and in the other ear I could hear someone say that they were "feeling lucky" that day. So what makes one lucky or feel lucky?

For me life has its own challenges so when you find someone to love and you are lucky enough that they love you back then I feel that person has real luck. For me that special someone has been in my life for the past 24 years sharing in the luck of 6 children and 2 grandchildren. My grandmother would be right in the example of love, marriage, children and grand-children are all blessings that God gave and that to me makes me feel very lucky. My life has been very lucky an encouraging for me not only with the family that I was blessed with but also the job that I have been lucky enough to have and to hold one that makes me very happy. I am lucky enough to help bless others through caring for them. I am a care giver for those that are unable to do for themselves. I have been lucky enough to hear great stories of the past as well as meet some lovely people through my job. What is it in your life that makes you feel lucky? Is it your job, your family, your lifestyle if you are not for sure perhaps your should take a deep breath, take a step back and take a look at where you are in life perhaps you will realize you are luckier than what you think you are.

I often think that coupons that I stumble upon, deals that I find and great shopping trips are somehow related to good luck. Allow me to share a bit of good luck with you. RedBox is having a promotion that could earn your free one night rentals of your favorite movies. The trick is the luckier you have been in the field of making friends the luckier you will be at earning free movies during this promotion. All you have to do is visit the link http://www.redbox.com/luckysocial sign up and start spreading the words. When your friends use your referral link to make a purchase you will earn a free nightly rental. Sounds like a great deal. Don't you feel lucky that you stopped and read this post on my blog Annies Home.

I feel very lucky to have been able to share this post with you all. I have had the grand opportunity to share this with you thanks to a lovely group that I feel lucky to have found quite some time ago and you can check them out as well as SocialMoms.

 I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and redbox blogging program, for a $25 Walmart gift card from redbox. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

St. Pat Day Favorite Corned Beef Dinner

http://somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/

1-4½ pound corned beef brisket


4 allspice berries

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 onion, quartered 1 bulb garlic, cut crosswise so each clove is cut in half

1 teaspoon black peppercorns

1 whole clove, optional

1 medium head cabbage, cut into eighths

1½ pounds small (about 1-inch diameter) red potoatoes

Cooking InstructionsRinse corned beef under running water. Place in large pot. Add allspice, bay leaves, mustard seeds, onion, peppercorns, and clove. Add enough water to cover.  Bring to a boil, skim any scum if needed. Reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook about 4 hours, or until fork-tender. Remove and keep warm. Strain out spices and vegetables from cooking water. Add cabbage and potatoes. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook 30 minutes until fork tender.

I recently found a blogger while blog hopping that made cupcakes for St. Patricks that looked like this on the outside and this on the inside I think these are so super cute You can find out how they made these cute cupcakes here

I had a recipe featured

Katie @ the blog This Chick Cooks has featured one of my recipes on her blog along with many other delicious ones. If you find time you should check out her blog While you are there check out her list of recipe swaps

Pediped New Spring Collection

There's no wonder why little feet feel comfortable in Pediped shoes. The natural feeling is to go barefoot and Pediped is the next best thing to bare feet. The spring and summer line up of pediped allows the natural feeling to look stylish as well.

The Pediped Originals are available in sizes 0 to 24 months are perfect for those tiny feet that are learning to walk and run.

One of the new features at Pediped are their new adventure line of shoes. Not only are they cute but comfortable to wear as well Mom will love them as well because they are eco - friendly with a natural rubber sole and can be machined washed

Our little man received his first pair of shoes from Pediped and his mommy was delighted. The look and style were absolutely perfect. We would like to thank Pediped for the pair of shoes that we were sent. These will be his first little pair of shoes that he will wear.

thoughts and opinions shared in this post are those of mine alone

Welcome Blog Hoppers

1. The season of Lent begins on March 9th this year...do you participate and if so, in what way?


no we do not participate in Lent but we do understand and talk about the different days and the season itself
2. Traditionally pancakes are eaten on the day known as Shrove Tuesday which is the last day before Lent (March 8th this year). So....butter and syrup? Blueberry? Chocolate chip? ewww, no thanks!! What's your pleasure when it comes to eating pancakes?

we have ate them many different ways want to try new way to eat pancakes check out one of these recipes here or here




3. Spring is coming. (It is coming, right?) What's your favorite springtime flower and do you suffer from seasonal allergies? Two questions I know, but they're lightweights.

yes I do have seasonal allergies and my favorite flower is lilac

4. "Our opinion of people depends less upon what we see in them than upon what they make us see in ourselves." Author unknown. Agree or Disagree? Why?

agree I believe but I still believe that first impression is one of the most important
5. Since it's "March" and also the season of Mardi Gras....have you ever been in a parade? What's the best parade you've seen?

when I was a kid I was in the hometown July 4th parade often. Not been to many but there have been several great hometown parades

6. You would jump up and down and shout for joy right now if someone told you___________?

I had won a million dollars, my kids have graduated from college and my grandson is healthy and there is nothing to worry about

7. How clean is your car on the outside? Inside? Is there junk in your trunk?

I do not have a car at this time and use public transportation much easier

Welcome to my blog!!! I hope that you find something of interest to you. here you will find recipes, pictures, stories and great reviews and giveaways. For a sample taste of some post that have been enjoyed check these out

EdenFantasys giveaway
Bummas Wipes review and giveaway
Meet Me On Monday
Mardi Gras King Cake
Five Step daily House Clean

Chicken Cashew Stir Fry

1/2 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth


3 tablespoons oyster sauce (such as Kame)

1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 1/2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce

2 teaspoons rice or white wine vinegar

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons oil, divided

1 cup chopped green onions, divided

1 small onion, cut into 8 wedges

1 cup (3 x 1/4-inch) julienne-cut red bell pepper

1/2 cup diagonally sliced carrot

1 cup sliced mushrooms

1 cup snow peas

1 pound skinned, boned chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces

1/4 cup canned pineapple chunks in juice, drained

1/3 cup cashews

1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper

6 cups hot cooked long-grain rice

Combine first 7 ingredients in a small bowl; set aside. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a stir-fry pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 cup green onions and onion wedges; stir-fry 1 minute. Add bell pepper and carrot; stir-fry 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and peas; stir-fry 2 minutes. Remove vegetable mixture from pan. Keep warm. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken; stir-fry 5 minutes. Add broth mixture, vegetable mixture, pineapple, cashews, and crushed red pepper; bring to a boil, and cook 1 minute or until thick. Stir in 1/2 cup green onions. Serve with rice.



recipe source: my recipes

shared on

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Aunt Betty's Filling Soup

I have been blessed to have many great women in my life. I have had my mother and three of my own grandmothers and then when I wed my husband 24 years ago his family became mine as well. Today I want to share a bit about one of my husbands grandmothers and a favorite recipe of hers.

Betty Jean was her name and let me tell you this bean pole of a lady stood nearly 6 foot and was a strong as they came She raised a handful of children (I believe 5) on her own and then took in any child that just needed some love. My husband was one of these individuals that she took in. Roy P was what she called him if you are a Dukes of Hazard fan it won't take you long to figure out where that came from. It always seemed that Betty had something good on the stove cooking but also always had something in the fridge that she had just made or some makings for a sandwich of some sort. One of her favorite recipes was a hamburger soup that would fill you up quick.

Betty Jean Hamburger Soup

1 lb lean hamburger

2/3 cup diced celery

1 bay leaf, crushed

dash of cayenne pepper

1 cup diced onions

1 cup shredded cabbage

1/2 tsp thyme

1 1/2-quarts water

1/2 cup cubed raw potato

8-oz can tomato sauce

2 tsp salt

1/2 cup frozen peas

1 cup sliced carrots

1/4 cup raw rice

2 beef bouillon cubes



Brown hamburger and onion in Pam sprayed soup pot. Brain off all fat. Add potatoes, carrots, celery, cabbage, water and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil. Add remaining ingredients, except peas. Cover and simmer 50 minutes. Add peas and cook another 5 to 10 minutes. Put into soup bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
 
A similiar recipe that we often have at our house is very close to this recipe at food.com
 
 

1 lb ground beef, browned


2 onions, large chopped

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1 (16 ounce) bag elbow macaroni

1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon garlic salt (I use Lawry's)

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon chili powder

Saute beef, 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes and 2 onions in large frying pan. Drain excess fat. Lots of onions makes this good. Meanwhile, in another pan cook macaroni in boiling, salted water until tender. Set aside until almost ready to serve. When beef and onions are finished cooking, add the canned, crushed tomatores and approximately 1/2 cup water; also add garlic salt, pepper, chili powder and mix well. Simmer for about 20 minutes; then add cooked macaroni noodles and mix well when ready to serve. If you add the macaroni noodles too soon, they may over cook and get mushy

http://allthesmallstuff-cole.blogspot.com/

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Blast From The Past

1987 School Beach Party oh the good times we had and these gals are still great friends of mine even thought we live miles apart now

Remember the Fashions of Yester Year?

http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/

This is a picture of a couple close friends of mine How pretty they both look Remember the dresses of yester year? Not sure when this was taken but I would say in the 80's

Menu Plan March 7-13

We will be enjoying a variety of quick dishes this week as I will be working quite a bit. My dear hubby and children are always great about helping out during times like these I am thankful for that but when they help the meals must be simple as they have little patience

Monday:
hamburgers , fixings, chips, cookies

Tuesday:
coffee brined chicken legs, potatoes, corn, cupcakes

Wednesday:
polish sausage casserole, rolls, fruit

Thursday:
pizza rolls, chips

Friday
sweet n sour chicken with rice,

Saturday:
eat out night

sunday:
goulash, dinner rolls, pudding

http://orgjunkie.com/

Cheesey Veggie Pasta Casserole

2 tablespoons olive oil


1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

kosher salt

freshly ground black pepper

2 medium zucchini (about 1 pound), halved lengthwise

1 medium eggplant (about 1 pound), halved lengthwise

1 large onion, peeled and quartered

1/2 pound ziti or penne

2 large cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried mint

1 large tomato, chopped

4 ounces Feta cheese, crumbled (about 1/2 cup)

1 cup prepared tomato sauce

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

8 ounces mozzarella, shredded

Heat the broiler. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of the oil with the vinegar, 1 teaspoon of the salt, and a few grinds of pepper and brush the mixture on the cut sides of the zucchini, eggplants, and onion. Arrange them cut-side up on a large, shallow baking pan. Broil the vegetables until golden brown and tender, 8 to 10 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board. Cut the zucchini crosswise into thin slices. Cut the eggplant into 1-inch pieces. Chop the onion coarsely. Heat the oven to 350º F. Meanwhile, in a large pot, cook the pasta according to the package directions; drain. Return the pasta pot to the stove, add the garlic and the remaining tablespoon of oil, and cook over low heat until the garlic sizzles. Stir in the oregano and mint. Add the cooked pasta, broiled vegetables, chopped tomatoes, Feta, the tomato sauce, pepper flakes, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a few more grinds of pepper. Transfer to a 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the mozzarella. Bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15 to 20 minutes more or until the cheese is melted and golden, and a knife inserted in the center for 5 seconds comes out hot.

Recipe source: my recipes

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Delicious Recipe for Fat Tuesday

Fat Tuesday - a carnival held in some countries on Shrove Tuesday (the last day before Lent) but especially in New Orleans

Shrove Tuesday is a term used in English speaking countries like the U.K. , Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the U.S. and is the day before Ash Wednesday which is the first day of the season of Lent Many know Mardi Gras as the day of Fat Tuesday. In the U.K and many other countries, the day is often known for Pancake Day. Making and eating such foods was conssidered a last feast with ingredients such as sugar, fat and eggs, whose consumption was traditionally restricted during the ritual fasting associated with Lent

Orange Chocolate Chip Pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour


2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup milk

1 large egg

2 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled

1 tablespoon grated orange zest

1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Garnish: orange zest and chocolate

Preparation

1. Whisk together first 5 ingredients in a large bowl. Combine buttermilk, milk, egg, and butter in a separate bowl; add to flour mixture, and whisk just until blended. Add 1 tablespoon orange zest and 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips to batter, and fold in gently. Transfer to a large measuring cup, and let stand 10 minutes.



2. Pour 3 to 4 tablespoons of batter onto a hot, lightly greased griddle or nonstick pan. Cook until pancakes are covered with bubbles and edges turn brown. Turn and cook other side 2 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with your favorite maple syrup.



recipe source: my recipes

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Meet Me On Monday

1.  What is your favorite way to eat potatoes?
2.  What was the last package that was delivered to your house?
3.  What is your favorite scent that you love to smell?
4.  Do you smoke?
5.  Are your parents married or divorced? 

 

1. fried is my most favorite but potatoes is one of those things I like many different ways

2. a moms party package for nutella more to share on it later3. vanilla 4. nope5. my dad is now in Heaven but my parents were married 20+ years

Welcome to the blog hoppers who stop by for a visit. I hope you leave a comment so I know you were here. If you do I will be sure to visit your blog and follow back. Want to know whats been going on here? Well here is just a taste:

EdenFantasys giveaway 
 Six Word Saturday 
 Irish Dessert for St. Patricks Day
Bummas Review and Giveaway
Veggie Recipe with a Bit of Style

Winners

Gortons Seafood Winners:

Mary Jo said...I think I'd like to try the Lemon pepper grilled fillets!

Anonymous said...

E-MAIL SUBSCRIBER #2

amanda said...

twitter follower 2

SalanderServant said...Tweeted here: http://twitter.com/Fatally_Flayed/status/41327660407865345 Mandy said...I want to try the shrimp!

Winner of the Tee Wit $20 GC

Donna said...

I follow them on twitter(donnak4)

Winner of the Little Pink Tool Box 

kenziesmum said...

i follow via gfc @ zooscapejennifer #2

Winner of the Fantasy Jewelry Box Giveaway is

 

Marybeth I. said...

http://www.fantasyjewelrybox.com/r1036.html - LOVE this ring.

Chicken Supreme  Cook one large hen and shred — sdd to the following, 2 cups fresh bread - (picked into small pieces) 1 cup cooked rice 1/2 tsp. paprika 4 well beaten eggs 3 cups chicken broth 1 tsp salt Pimento to taste 1/4 c butter 1/2 cup milk Mix all ingredients and bake 1 hour or until firm. Serve with the following sauce: Make white sauce with 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup cream, 1/4 cup butter, 2 cups broth — last add 1 can mushrooms — salt, pepper and 2 hard boiled egg yolks chopped up.

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http://realsustenance.com/