The Paisley Cupcake

Baby Girl's Quilt

2011-11-01T06:45:00.008-06:00

Every pretty baby girl needs a quilt.

Baby Greta's quilt is based on this pattern... with just a few modifications (namely being about 6x bigger) I made the blocks as instructed, then sashed it with 3 1/2" strips all around. My very favorite part is the aqua binding...

Crib sheets are the simplest thing ever to make. Here are some very easy to follow instructions - and it makes the quilt seem extra special to have matching sheets! What I {L-O-V-E} about homemade sheets is that you can choose a fabric that is high quality and very very soft. Sometimes store bought crib sheets are like sandpaper... and what baby wants that?

(10 weeks!)

Greta loves her quilt!

<3 AmberLou

sharing at a few of these parties... :)

The Knights Who Say "Ee!"

2011-10-31T05:08:00.005-06:00

Today is my kids' first Halloween ever. Really.

No, I'm not one of those people who hates Halloween, but every year from October 25th until November 5th, our family has gone camping, and so we've never bothered with Halloween.

Kindergarten changes everything!

My son came home from Kindergarten in early October, and said "Hey Mom, there is this day, it's called Halloween, and you're supposed to dress up and people give you candy!"

My response: "It must be a brand new holiday!"

So Eli told me he wanted to dress up as a knight. (Halloween is a foreign concept, dress up is not)

His tabard is 1 yard of muslin, cut in half and sewn into a long strip, with a hole cut for his head (edged in bias tape) and his personal "coat of arms" appliqued on the front. For his coat of arms, he wanted a dragon, a lion head, and a letter "E". After I made the uppercase "E", I was informed that it should have a lowercase "e" also. That is so Kindergarten!

He also has a belt and a "sword holder", sewn from red flannel, interfacing, and a couple of "D" rings. I bought a sword for $2.97 at Wal-Mart. The crowning glory of his Halloween costume is his shield. I drew a template for the shape, my husband cut two pieces of thin oak veneer and glued them together. I painted the coat of arms on the front and we stapled nylon webbing straps on the back.
Easy peasy.

He is in love.

(some action shots...)

Iris was going to be a dragon, so Eli would have someone to fight, but when she saw his costume (the sword especially...) she wanted to be a knight as well.

So she's the purple knight.

Same concept, except that she is shorter, so I got away with using only a half yard of muslin for her tabard. Her coat of arms is a kitty, an iris, and an "Ii". She also wasn't interested in a shield, so we skipped that bit.

Baby Greta ended up being the ~~ferocious~~ cuddly dragon. I had a size 0-3 month fleece sweatsuit from Old Navy. I used a bit of red fleece and green felt to make the tail, ears and spikes, and some shimmery green scaly fabric from JoAnn for the belly. Red socks complete her ~~scary~~ adorable dragon costume!

So having your first Halloween at age 5 is slightly hilarious. We went to a Trunk or Treat, and Eli went to the first car in the line, said "Trick or Treat!" as instructed, and got 3 pieces of candy. He was thrilled, and went to get back in the car. His eyes almost popped out when I told him that he could go get candy from EVERY car.
We'll see what happens when we go Trick or Treating in our neighborhood tonight!

{HAPPY HALLOWEEN!}

<3 AmberLou

DIY Twix bars using homemade caramel!

2011-10-30T12:00:00.003-06:00

I've recently started using Pinterest.com, which is a self-described online pin board. It's used to organize and catalog ideas you find on the internet. I'm pretty behind the times about such things, so you've all probably been using it for ever, but if you haven't you should check it out.

Anyway, I found a couple of recipes in the last few days that went together well and I decided to combine them. First I found a recipe called better than Twix bars, which called for packaged caramels. I decided to make them Saturday for a pre-Halloween treat. Then, I found a recipe for microwave caramels and decided to combine the two into one perfect concoction. They. Are. Amazing!
Here's the recipe I came up with:

Better Than Twix Bars

1 stick (4 ounces) butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup flour
Homemade caramel (recipe follows)
8 ounces milk chocolate
1 1/2 teaspoons vegetable shortening, optional

Preheat oven to 300º. Line 8 x 8 inch pan with nonstick foil or greased regular foil.

Beat together butter, sugar and vanilla. Add the flour. Press evenly into pan...you may need to flour your fingers to prevent sticking. Prick crust with fork. Bake 35-45 minutes till crust is golden.

Immediately after removing crust from oven, run knife around edges to loosen crust. Cool.

Make caramel according to recipe below and pour over shortbread. Allow to cool for 30 minutes or so.

Gently melt chocolate in microwave or in double boiler over low heat. Add shortening or oil if too thick to pour. Pour over cooled caramel and spread to edges. Chill till chocolate is well set. Cut into squares to serve. Store covered in refrigerator, but remove a few minutes before serving.

Microwave Caramels (For an 1100 watt microwave oven)

1/2 cup butter (real butter, not margarine)
1/2 cup light Karo Syrup (don't use dark)
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (NOT evaporated milk)
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Line either an 8 x 8 baking dish or a 9 x 5 loaf pan with foil. Butter the foil.--An 8 x 8-inch pan will give a thinner candy, 9 x 5-inch loaf pan will give a thicker candy.
Melt butter in large microwave bowl. (I used a glass bowl.)
Stir in Karo syrup, both sugars, and sweetened condensed milk.
Mix until most of the sugar is dissolved.
Microwave on high for 3 1/2 minutes (that's 3 minutes and 30 seconds)
Stir down and scrape sides of bowl.
Microwave on high 3 1/2 minutes. (This will be soft ball stage.)
Stir in vanilla and nuts (if you are using nuts).
Pour immediately into buttered dish (or over shortbread for Twix bars) and refrigerate until set.

If making traditional caramels: Remove from refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature before cutting. The caramels can be left plain or decorated at this point by dipping them in chocolate and then in chopped nuts, sprinkles, etc. Wrap each piece in wax paper.

We really liked these. They were very, very chewy, especially until they warmed up a bit. We cut the first pieces as soon as we could get a knife in them, because we were impatient. Our teeth and jaws were sore and we feared for our fillings. But the next morning, they were much more manageable.

These will definitely have a regular spot in my Christmas goodie plates from now on.

Lorie

Baby G's blessing gown

2011-09-09T05:00:00.003-06:00

I've told how I learned to knit here. I love to make lovely things for my children and grandchildren. When my first grandson was born 5 years ago, I was only just beginning to knit, but he had a few sweaters and blankets that I'd made for him. Two summers ago, my daughter Amber was pregnant with her second child and she asked me to knit her a christening gown, in the hopes that her baby would be a girl. Then she told me to make 5 more christening gowns so that if I died before her siblings had children, she wouldn't have to share with them. Such a kidder, that Amber! Ha ha. (I'm pretty sure to this day that she wasn't kidding).

So I made a lovely little gown and baby girl "I" was born in February of 2010. She was oh so sweet in her little gown, but had a hard time expressing just how much she loved it.

The week that "baby I" was born, my older daughter had an ultrasound and learned that her first baby was a boy. I had 5 months to come up with a blessing suit for baby M who was born in July.

When Amber learned that baby #3 was another girl, she asked me to make another blessing gown for her. I wanted to make something a little more ambitious (because I have a bit more experience now). Amber selected this pattern and I was able to get a wonderful bamboo/silk blend yarn. Since I live in Hawaii, I buy most of my yarns online and I was slightly disappointed when the yarn arrived and it wasn't pure white, but a bit of an ivory. But the dress turned out so pretty, I wasn't disappointed long. I'll be going back to Hawaii before her blessing, so we had a little fashion show a bit early. Here is our newest family member, Baby G, modeling her gown.

And, of course, the outfit isn't complete without the shoes.

I loved making this for my baby granddaughter! I imagined Amber saving the dress for G's daughter to wear in 25 years!

-Lorie

Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine

2011-09-01T11:41:00.003-06:00

13 oz. box of linguine pasta
8 Tbls. butter, seperated
2 teaspoons minced garlic
4 -5 sliced mushrooms
2 chopped green onions, optional
2 cups half and half, I used fat free
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup pesto - Thanks Amber for the homemade!
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

~Cook linguine until al dente and drain.
~In a skillet, melt 2Tbls. butter and saute mushrooms. As soon as they are done, pour shrimp on top of mushrooms, remove from heat and cover with a lid. Set aside for now.

~In another skillet, melt the 6 Tbls. butter and saute minced garlic and green onions, then stir in half and half, season with pepper. Stirring constantly, cook about 6 minutes on medium heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and pesto, cook until thickened.
~Stir in the shrimp and mushrooms,the shrimp will be mostly pink from the steam of the mushrooms, but if not cook, (this will be only a minute or 2) until shrimp are all cooked through and pink. Spoon over the hot linguine. Sprinkle with a little fresh Parmesan and sea salt.

No picture of this because we are forgetful. But it is so good. I used whole wheat pasta and my teen-ager loved it despite it having additional fiber :)

A New Arrival

2011-08-18T11:49:00.003-06:00

You may have noticed how us posters here at Paisley are a little distracted with life and not too consistent at posting lately. Look and see what a beautiful distraction we have... Happy BIRTH-day to Amber's new daughter and Lorie's new granddaughter, Lil' Lady G! She weighed in at 7 lbs and 8oz. She was delivered at home and her and her mama are doing GREAT!

Homemade Sweet & Sour Sauce

2011-08-12T05:00:00.007-06:00

When I was a girl, my mother frequently brought home Chinese takeout and my favorite was the sweet & sour pork. As a young wife and mother, I wanted to learn to make my own, and got this recipe from a friend many many years ago. It has become a family favorite of ours.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
3 TBSP corn starch
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup white vinegar
6 TBSP soy sauce
3 clove minced garlic
1 TBSP fresh grated ginger

Mix brown sugar and corn starch in small sauce pan until well blended. Then add liquids and other ingredients. Heat until thick. Use for dipping egg rolls, won tons or chicken nuggets, or add pork or chicken and vegetables for a main dish.

Traditionally, sweet & sour pork is made with marinaded pork (Marinade raw pork chunks in garlic and soy sauce) drenched in corn starch and then deep fried. It's delicious if you want to go to all that work and have the extra calories. I've gotten lazy and more calorie conscious over the years, though, so I usually just use grilled chicken or slow cooked unseasoned pork, which is also very tasty. I like to add red and green bell peppers, onion chunks, carrots, celery and pineapple tidbits to my dish. Stir fry the vegetables in a bit of olive oil, add the cooked meat (I used pork here, but boneless grilled chicken works well too).

Then pour over the prepared sauce and serve over steamed white (or brown) rice.

I love this sauce! I've been using this recipe for over 20 years and have always had good results with it. As a bonus, it's much lower in sodium than bottled sauces and there's no MSG, for folks who are concerned about that.

Enjoy!

Lorie

Raspberry Coconut Cookies

2011-08-09T14:58:00.004-06:00

I tried a new cookie recipe from Taste of Home. They are so yummy. A little crunchy on the edges and soft and chewy in the middle. I made these with my homemade raspberry jam and they were a BIG hit!

Ingredients

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
6 tablespoons sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1-1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup flaked coconut
1/3 cup seedless raspberry jam

Directions

In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, water and extract. Combine the flour, salt and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in coconut (dough will be sticky).
Set aside 2/3 cup dough; roll remaining dough into 1-in. balls. Using the end of a wooden spoon handle, make a 3/8-in. deep indentation in the center of each ball. Fill each with 1/2 teaspoon jam. Cover jam with a teaspoonful of reserved dough; seal and reshape into a ball. Repeat.
Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool. Yield: about 2-1/2 dozen.

I hope you enjoy these as much as we did.
Happy Baking
~jan

2 Fat Quarters and an Old Shirt

2011-07-21T04:00:00.004-06:00

I made these shorts in the same manner as the ones shown in a tutorial Here. They are an upcycled t-shirt! So easy when you use the t-shirt hem for the hem of the shorts, makes for a quick project.

Then I made a basic pillowcase dress or in this case a shorter version for a shirt like this One. I always make a few adjustments each time I make one, this time being no different, I wanted to share what I did.

Instead of the typical binding with bias tape (bought or homemade)to go around the armholes, I used the remaining hem of the t-shirt after making the shorts, it was the perfect length for this approx. size 3-4 shirt.

After sewing the front and backs together, I pressed open the seams and pinned the shirt hem along the arm hole, right sides together. Then stitched it up.

Then I pressed it and top stitched so the seam would lay flat and not rub little Misses underarm...
Then I folded over the top to make the casings on the front and back...

I have misplaced the ribbon I intended for the ties and am quite happy I did so. I really like the 1/4" drawstring I used instead. I knotted the drawstring over the shoulder rather than a bow and it worked great - no retying bows all day.

I think she is pretty happy to be wearing her new outfit...
or maybe the smiles are for the geese and ducks along the Snake River we went to feed.

This outfit is 3 fat quarters and an old t-shirt. I used a 3rd fat quarter as the binding, ties and hem. This was actually a dress 2 years ago and is now worn as a shirt with capri's made from an old t-shirt.

It's so great these little pillowcases dresses can 'grow' with our little girls. I love the Endless creativity and super cute girls!!
Happy sewing!
~jan

Play dresses

2011-07-14T05:03:00.003-06:00

Twenty years ago my little Amanda began her stage of refusing to wear pants. She only would wear dresses from age 3 until 1st grade. At times it was difficult with our cold Idaho weather, but warm jeans and leggings under dresses became a fashion statement at our house. I often resorted to making simple 'play dresses' for Amanda and now that she is a mother of a 3 year old herself, we have resorted to the apparent tradition of Play Dresses.

I have made these dresses for Miss H for holidays in the past...
here is the Halloween dress of 2009...

here is the autumn dress of 2010...

and more recently Fourth of July 2011.

Knowing Miss H would want to wear it everyday, I thought I had better throw a couple more together. I chose the t-shirt and she chose the fabric for the skirts. See how she is in love with The Princess and the Frog lately? By notice...I mean how dirty it is because she wore it 2 days before the yellow/pink one was finished.

All I do is get a t-shirt and 1/2 yard matching woven cotton (for size 3 - more for older girls - measure length you want and multiply by 2). I sew the 2 short ends together and then fold wrong sides together and so the rough edges are together then making the fold the hem - yay no hemming! I gather the two rough edges and sew to the bottom of the t-shirt. So easy to make a high waist or a drop waist dress. They can be embellished with ribbon, rick rack, buttons or flowers. Endless creativity! Just make it quick so the little Miss can phttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifut it on! Apparently they are super comfy, because my girls wear them out!

Also, this is a great way to reuse shirts that have stains on the lower half, as I am doing next.
Happy stitching!
~jan

I am sharing at these linkys. Thank you!!

I love this recipe!

2011-07-12T15:59:00.000-06:00

Check it out!

Hawiian Pie with Coconut Crust!

http://www.easytobeglutenfree.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=166&Itemid=7/

-Amanda

Sew-Along Finalists

2011-07-09T13:12:00.002-06:00

Hey everybody, Mz. I's outfit is one of the finalists in the Cottage Home Sew-Along Design Contest...

Voting ends tomorrow night - please go vote for me? Pretty please?

Go here to vote...

Thanks!

<3 AmberLou

Idaho Staycations

2011-07-07T08:57:00.006-06:00

My youngest son and I have talked about going on a vacation this year. However, with economic set backs in recent months I was leery about spending too much on a vacation. So we decided to have a few short trips in our surrounding Southern Idaho and get to know more about this great state!

My ancestry homesteaded in Star Valley, Wyoming area so the first staycation with Amanda and Miss H began there. Then last week, said son and I went to Shoshone Falls near Twin Falls, ID. Having had a very wet spring has increased water flow to the highest level in 10 years. These pictures just don't do it justice.

Click on the picture to enlarge it...

Also near the falls is the Evel Knievel jump site - if you are old enough to remember his death defying jumps this may interest you. My teen-aged children have always found this intriguing - they are all boys!!

Some other great places to visit when coming to Idaho...

-Bear Lake - south of Montpelier
-National Oregon/California Trail Center at Montpelier
-Minnetonka Caves near St. Charles
-Mormon Tabernacle in Paris
-Geyser Park in Soda Springs (only captive Geyser in the world)
-Chesterfield Historic Town Site a restored town site from 1880.
-Mineral Hot Pools in Lava Hot Springs
-Fort Hall replica in Pocatello
-Bannock County Museum in Pocatello
-Idaho Natural History Museum at I.S.U in Pocatello
-Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Museum - Fort Hall
-Idaho Potato Expo in Blackfoot
-Museum of Idaho in Idaho Falls (currently the BODIES exhibit is there)
-Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve near Arco
-Climb Borah Peak
-Ski Sun Valley, Targhee, Kelly Canyon, Pomerelle etc.
-Minidoka Internment National Monument (relocation site for interned Japanese)located between Twin Falls and Jerome.

There is also an abundance of fishing, camping, hiking, white water rafting and mountain biking places to visit. As a non-traditional student in college, I took an geology class that opened my eyes to the place I had lived for 30 years. There is a wealth of geologic treasures to be seen in Idaho. I think I am sounding like a PSA or a Chamber of Commerce ad - so I will leave it there. But...many of these places are just off the freeway and so easy to find. I look forward to a few more stops while going on our own staycations.

Leave me a message and tell me your favorite place to staycation near your hometown, I will put it on the list of places to visit!!
Happy exploring!
~jan

PS... A couple websites to visit...
http://www.visitidaho.org/historic-sites/?page=1&size=
Look for historical markers Here!

4th of July Duds: Cottage Home Sew-Along Reveal

2011-07-02T12:00:00.003-06:00

I love, love, love Mz. I's new outfit.

I was hesitant about making this pattern, since the XS size was 2T-3T, and my little girl comfortably fits into 18m, but it was really easy to modify the pattern. When cutting out the top, I measured one of Mz. I's shirts whose length I liked, and adjusted the length of the cut piece. The width I figured would be fine - the design is
more blouse-y than fitted.

I love it!

The shorts were basically the same - I measured an existing pair that she had and modified the pattern slightly. I shortened the waist
and legs, and brought the seams in about 1/2" to accommodate
her tiny legs.

Love, love {L-O-V-E} the shorts!
(and the little bows!)

(and this little bow, you can only see when she
shows off her belly button!)

When listing the fabric requirements for this pattern, Lindsay promised there would be enough leftover for whatever accessories we wanted to make.

Mz. I has a serious love affair with hats.
So I made her a news~~boy~~ girl(?) cap.

I. Just. Love it!

Did I mention that this pattern, while complicated looking, was really quite simple?

Thank you Lindsay, for hosting this great sew-along!

<3 AmberLou

Hey! I'm one of the five finalists! Please go vote for this outfit here!

sharing at some of these great parties!

Firecracker Cake!!

2011-07-01T22:50:00.007-06:00

I just love this festive holiday cake. Amanda and I made this for a purse party she was hosting with her cousin. It was served with fresh strawberries and was incredibly moist.

I got roped into helping only because Amanda's oven has dual personalities and can't decide if its job is to BAKE or BURN food:) We didn't take a picture of the cake after it had been cut, but the inside is as festive as the outside - red, white and blue!

A tutorial can be found on Betty Crocker's website. It was a hit at the party and the men in our lives were grateful for a couple small slices left over for them!

Have a Great Long Weekend and Happy Baking!
~jan

Linked to our favorite parties listed on the above button and ...
http://www.504main.com/
http://www.designsbygollum.blogspot.com/
http://litandlaundry.blogspot.com/
http://sweet-as-sugar-cookies.blogspot.com/
http://www.homemakerinheels.com/
http://www.bedifferentactnormal.com/2011/07/show-and-tell-saturday-070211.html
http://www.bystephanielynn.com/2011/06/sunday-showcase-party-with-mama-j.html
http://niftythriftythings.blogspot.com/
http://www.itsybitsypaperblog.com/2011/07/red-white-and-blue-linky-party.html

Star Make-Over

2011-06-30T10:00:00.001-06:00

I bought this star at a Home Decor store and then as always saw one later I liked much better. The good thing is that this star was much more inexpensive than the one I really liked - so I felt compelled to do a make-over on a perfectly good - brand new star!

Here is the before...

I wanted something a little more patriotic. I love Americana decor no matter the time of year.

Now here is the after...

I painted it with acrylic paint in a maroon color and then dry brushed a bit of midnight blue around the edges for a bit of depth and giving an aged look. I used the $20 one that I liked as my example and this $6 one looks the same. I love how it looks on my door! The after picture is not on my door, it is dark outside (habit of night crafting) so the photos aren't coming out too well. I love to revamp things! So simple...and I am into simple these days.

Happy Independence Day America!

~jan

Linked to some of THESE parties! Thanks for letting us share :)

Wordless Wednesday - Making a Bouquet!

2011-06-29T17:10:00.001-06:00

Patriotic Wreath

2011-06-28T22:50:00.001-06:00

The Fourth of July is my favorite holiday!

I love to decorate for the holiday...indoor and out.

I made a coffee filter wreath for the front door and I am sold!

It was super easy to make and FAST!

Plus, I think it turned out cute so, all my front door wreaths are going to be made this way from here on out.

To make this wreath you will need:

- 2 pkg.s of coffee filters

- one foam wreath

- hot glue gun/ glue sticks

- paint/ paintbrush

- ribbon to hang

First, I pulled all the coffee filters apart....

Then, I crumpled up the bottom...

And glued to the wreath, relatively close together.

I wanted it to be extra full.

I did about three "rows" around the wreath, to get the look I wanted.

And then it was mostly finished!

It took about 20 minutes from start to finish...not bad!

Using a paintbrush and selected colors,

I dipped the brush and gently brushed it across the top of the filters.

I did it uniformly to look like a flag but, next time I want to get a little creative and do some funky tie dye...maybe for a summery wreath or a purple and orange and black one for Halloween.

When it was finished drying I added the ribbon and this was the end result.

{yes, I am aware that my door trim needs painted...it on my list to do!}

There are endless possibilities with coffee filters.

I LOVE using them!

You you have done a project using them please leave a comment with you link.

We would love to feature you!

Enjoy your Fourth!

-Amanda

We link to these parties

Cottage Home Sew-Along

2011-06-27T04:58:00.007-06:00

Have you seen the little girl's sew-along that Lindsay at The Cottage Home is hosting this week?

We're making this.

My friend Kim and I are doing this together...

I've got my fabric

and of course, my muse, Mz. I

I'll post the finished outfit next week!

{SO} excited to get started!

<3 AmberLou

Patriotic Paint Chip Banner

2011-06-25T04:00:00.008-06:00

I saw the cutest banner in Better Homes and Garden, July issue and just had to make one. I asked myself, "Self, why make it and then not share it's cuteness with all of our faithful followers." So I am...

Here are the paint chips - I didn't end up using them all.

I thought I could improve and make it cuter with things like these...

But in the end...simpler was so much better.

In the magazine they display this along the edge of a 4th of July decorated table.Mine will be going on Amanda's fireplace mantle, but the shorter version will be above my front door (but it is too dark for a picture now).

This only cost the price of the yarn, $1. Easy and a great way to add a splash of color to any party.
Happy Independence Day America!
~jan

Linking to some of these parties.
Linked to...http://www.notjustahousewife.net/2011/06/show-me-what-ya-got-30.html

Grandma V's Banana Bread

2011-06-24T05:00:00.010-06:00

My mother made banana nut bread frequently when I was growing up, and it was one of the first "from scratch" baked goods I learned how to make. I've tweaked her recipe over the years, so now I suppose you could call it "Tutu Lorie's" banana bread as well. It's very simple and easy to make.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together until light and fluffy:

1 stick butter (Grandma used 1/2 cup shortening)
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla (I started adding this some years ago)

Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating after each. Then add:

2 cups flour (I use half whole wheat)
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2-3 mashed bananas
chopped nuts (if you're into that sort of thing... Grandma was, I'm not)

Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for about an hour. Or, you can bake in muffin tins for 20 minutes.

Let cool before keeping in a ziplock bag or other airtight container. It's wonderful hot from the oven, or toasted once it cools.

As an aside, if/when I move back to the mainland, I doubt I'll ever eat another banana. Living here in Hawaii has spoiled me with the fresh apple bananas everyone grows in their yards here. So tasty!

-Lorie!

More Dinosaurs...

2011-06-20T04:18:00.034-06:00

I came across this pattern while looking for a fun
homemade baby gift idea.

littleblackteapot.blogspot.com

So sweet!

I made one of these little guys for a friend's baby shower.

My son stole it and took this picture with his dinosaur toys.

My little girl stole it from him, and wouldn't give it up.

So I made her a pink one.

My 5 year old wanted one.

He wanted it to be really big, and he wanted to stuff it himself.

He did. For about two minutes, before he got bored and graciously allowed me to finish it.

Since then I've made a few more...

I am SET for a few upcoming birthday gifts!

My son informed me that this is a LONG-NECK, not a STEGOSAURUS, so it shouldn't have spikes.

He's the dino expert.

Then he told me I should make a stegosaurus.

So I did.

(I just tapered the pattern to a kind of point instead of making the neck swoop up)

I made this stegosaurus for another friend-with-baby, and made the spikes ribbon taggies.

I just LOVE this pattern!

Go print it! Her directions are super easy to follow, it takes just a scrap of fabric (stash-buster!) and the kids love this guy! If you've been wanting to try out some three dimensional projects, this is a great one to learn on!

<3 AmberLou

sharing at some of these parties...

Front Door Decor

2011-06-18T01:28:00.001-06:00

Recently, in our whereabouts, there have been some disturbing events that have taken place in homes that have opened their front doors to...

door to door salesmen/soliciters.

I have wanted to make a NO SOLICITING sign for quite some time.

They are ruthless in these parts.

Just the other day, I had a man stop by and knock for like 10 minutes before giving up and leaving.

It kind of made me uncomfortable so...I finally did it!

I made a sign using supplies I had lying around the house.

-an old picture frame {I painted it.}

-craft paper

-cardboard

-mod podge

-ribbon

In minutes I had the frame painted, the cardboard cut at 8x10 size and cover with craft paper and letters.

I mod podged the top of the craft paper...it kind of weatherizes the paper so that when it rains, it doesnt get ruined.

I placed the cardboard into frame and hot glued ribbon onto the back of the frame so I could hang it...

and TA-DA!

An original and personalized 'no soliciting' sign:

I like that it also covers the window in my front door.

No peeking in!

Make your own no soliciting sign and stop potential crimes from being committed.

-Amanda

Pizza on the Grill

2011-06-17T05:00:00.001-06:00

We love pizza at our house. We make it often, usually at least once a week. But when the weather is hot (as is mostly is in Leeward Oahu), using the oven can be unbearable. So I decided to try cooking our pizza outside on the grill.

Use your favorite pizza dough recipe. I like to use whole wheat flour and a generous amount of olive oil in mine for best flavor. Roll out your dough inside, then brush with more olive oil to prevent sticking and place your crust right on the clean grill over hot coals.

Let cook for a minute or so, then flip over with a couple of spatulas and grill the other side. Once it's cooked a bit, add your sauce,

and your favorite toppings (I used grilled peppers and asparagus. Spinach, mushroom and tomato is great too. Or for purists, just pepperoni.)

Then spread on the cheese

and cover the grill for 5- 10 minutes. Check it every minute or two to make sure your crust doesn't burn.

This was a bit more work than making it in the oven, but it was fun and the house definitely stayed cooler this way. When I do it again, I'll probably make individual pizzas (or at least 2 small ones instead of one big one) to ensure that the crust cooks evenly... the edges of mine weren't as crispy as I like them to be.

Bon appetit!

Lorie

Father's Day Banner

2011-06-16T22:15:00.006-06:00

I am thinking Miss H should be a guest poster here on Paisley. I am always featuring HER work rather than my own. However, please note, the idea is MINE, the creativity of a toddler is what makes it cute!

Miss H - with Oma's scissor help (and not so great graphic art help) - made a cute and inexpensive banner for Daddy to celebrate his special day on Sunday. Note...the theme is fishing...just in case it got lost in the translation.

We hung it up for pictures and then hid it away until Sunday morning.

Bags of microwave popcorn are covered, candy-bar wrapper style, in Miss H's favorite color 'RAINBOW' featuring how to say 'daddy' in several languages. The fish are colored to be specific breeds of fish (are they called breeds?).

Another popcorn with a computer generated wrapper.

A candy bar printed with clip art for Miss H to personalize before wrapping and attaching to the banner.

This is a 'Rainbow Catfish' just in case you weren't aware of that species, hehe.

You may have noticed in the first photo, the center of the banner has a large green Ticket Admitting One to a fishing trip with Dad.

I guarantee Dad will love this banner A) because Miss H made it B) He has treats to take on a fishing trip C) He will be EXPECTED to go fishing with his girls who have their own poles - oh poor him, hehe.

This only cost the price of the candy bars and popcorn. Inexpensive, but made with priceless LOVE!

Happy Father's Day to all and Happy Fishing to Daddy Moser!

~jan (and Miss H).

I have linked to a few of THESE parties. Thanks all you creative ladies!
AND

Tickled Tastebuds Tuesday

2011-06-14T01:58:00.001-06:00

What better way to kick off Father's Day, than a tasty breakfast for the man/daddy of your household?

When thinking of men, I generally try to think hearty meals but,

I know my man has a sweet tooth that isnt prejudice to any particular time of day.

So, for his Fathers day breakfast/ brunch {depending how late he sleeps in!} I will be making Banana Nut Pancakes...with a side of BACON!
To start his day off sweet....rather than heavy!

Banana Nut Pancakes

1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup whipped topping

1 cup pancake mix

1 tablespoon sugar

1 egg

3/4 cup milk

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

1 medium ripe banana, mashed

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1.In a small mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Mix in whipped topping (mixture will be stiff); set aside.

2.In a bowl, combine pancake mix and sugar. Beat egg, milk and oil; add to pancake mix and mix well. Fold in banana and pecans. Pour batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto a lightly greased hot griddle; turn when bubbles form on top of pancakes. Cook until second side is golden brown. Serve with cream topping.

I think I might add some caramel sauce in addition to the topping. Yum!

And...
Happy Father's Day to all you Fab Dads!

-Amanda

Slow-Cooker Saturday

2011-06-11T12:36:00.012-06:00

Slow Cooking Macaroni and Cheese

So easy on a warm summer day. Throw it in stir once or twice during cooking and Tah-Dah...homemade mac and cheese that kids will love.

3 cups almost cooked macaroni
1 1/2 Tbl. melted butter
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups evaporated milk
1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 t. salt
1/4 t. fine ground pepper

Toss macaroni with butter in a large bowl. Combine remaining ingredients and then poor into slow cooker. Keep covered and cook about 2 1/2 hours. Stir a couple of times during cooking. **You can used processed cheese for this as well and you may prefer sauteing the onion while cooking the bacon. (I cheat and used already cooked REAL bacon pieces).

This recipe is my adaptation from this slow cooking recipe book. A great recipe to serve for a playdate luncheon, take to a friend in need or as a side dish to your neighborhood bbq. Happy Cooking Y'all!

Linked to some of THESE parties. Thanks ladies!AND...
http://www.momstheword--livingforhim.blogspot.com/
http://diningwithdebbie.blogspot.com/
http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2011/06/foodie-friday-picnic-in-country.html

Scented Play Dough

2011-06-02T10:40:00.012-06:00

I love fun times with the granddaughter! Play-doh is one of our favorite activities. Miss H can be incredibly creative- as I have said repeatedly. This recipe is one I have made many times for my children as they grew up and also for my pre-k class I taught for 2 years. Not only is this colorful - but it smells good too.

Kool-aid Play Dough.
1 c. flour
1T. oil - I use vegetable oil
1 pkg. of unsweetened Kool-aid (for color and scent)
1/4 c. salt
2T. cream of tartar (optional, but I prefer it)
1 c. water

Mix dry ingredients then add water and oil. Stir 3 to 5 minutes on medium heat. When mixture forms a ball in pan, remove from heat and knead on table top until smooth. The dough will be pretty hot at first, so adult hands are necessary to knead until it cools a bit. Make sure to store this in an airtight container and in the fridge keeps a longer shelf life. It has the same consistency as store bought Play-doh.

We have had many rainy days this spring and this has been played with for countless hours in hopes that summer will soon arrive.
Happy rolling and shaping.
~jan
Participating in some of THESE linky parties.
and http://polkadotsonparade.blogspot.com/2011/06/wow-me-wednesday-12.html
http://mommaskindacrafty.blogspot.com/
http://www.504main.com/2011/06/tickled-pink-no-51.html

The Life and Times of Stegosaurus Bob

2011-05-30T04:24:00.025-06:00

My big boy celebrated his 5th birthday last week, and since making his piñata has sort of become my "thing", a few weeks ago I asked him what kind of piñata he wanted.

A {stegosaurus}.

This is the third year I've made his birthday piñata.

For his fourth birthday (pirate themed) the kiddies busted open a mean shark.

For his third birthday, a cute little red dragon.

So I got busy and made him a stegosaurus.

How to Make a {Piñata}

You will need:

a plan!

balloons

newspaper

flour paste
paint

You don't have to draw a map of the pinata, but you should plan out what materials you're going to use to make it the shape you need. You can use pretty much anything that is lightweight.

This little guy started out as two balloons. The balloons made up the cavity that holds all the candy, and everything else is just for looks.

He is a large balloon and a small balloon

taped together.

Make your flour paste by mixing flour (I started out with 1 cup) and warm water until you have a fairly thick paste. Kind of the consistency of... um... snot.

I don't like working with big long strips of wet sticky newspaper, so I tear mine pretty short - about 6-8" long.

I use a small bowl to hold the piñata as I'm working with it. Since the balloons are round, they'll roll away if you don't have something to support them.

Start by one side of a strip of paper in the paste, and drag it along the edge of the paste bowl to remove the excess.

I like a fairly thick-ish coating

and then stick it on your balloon.

After I covered the large balloon, (leaving a hole to remove the balloons and add the candy),

I made the neck

to connect the two balloons in a non-choppy way, just drape the strips from one to the other, and when you've gone all the way around, add a long strip the other direction.

After I covered both balloons, I set the guy up to dry.

A few hours later, I added a second coat of newspaper to his whole body, and let him dry overnight.

Here he is with two coats, totally dry.

The next morning, I made his tail, legs and spikes.

I made his tail with a couple of sheets of construction paper. I made a tube and then used another sheet to bring the tube to a point.

I stuffed the tube with small balloons (water balloons) to keep it rigid while it dried. I cut small tabs all around the edge of where the tail meets the dino-bum ,

and glued and taped it onto the body.

Next I made the legs. I started with construction paper tubes, then cut a curved chunk out of the side to fit it to the side of Bob's body.

I cut tabs along the curved edge, and taped it on.

Repeat for all four legs. For the hind legs, I kept the outside edge longer, so the legs look more like stegosaurus legs. (Like I've ever seen any...)

I put small balloons in the legs to keep them rigid

then covered them with newspaper

It's starting to look like an animal now!

For the bony plates and spikes, I drew the shape I wanted on some lightweight cardboard (a soda box) and cut them out to attach. I left about a 1" tab along the bottom to use to attach it to the body.

I attached them along the length of the back

Then covered them in newspaper.

After Bob dried completely, I painted him. Some people like to put crepe paper all over, but it is much less work to paint. I put on two coats to cover all the newsprint, and let it dry.

Last, I popped the balloons and removed them, then let the birthday boy fill the cavity up with candy, and patched the hole with a piece of construction paper, which I painted to match.

I rigged up a little harness out of string to hold Bob while the kiddies take turns smacking him. In years past, I've tried building in a wire hanger, but it always falls off... someday I will perfect a way to hold him up without string...

So in all, Bob has two layers of paper over his body, head and tail, and one over his legs. This makes a pretty strong piñata. I let each child have a turn smashing him, (starting with the youngest and going up by age) and blindfold the older kids so they don't kill him with one hit. After everyone has had one or two turns, I open it up to anyone who wants another turn (always the big kids) who crack him open after a few tries.

Every year the kids fight over who gets to take the head home. Kinda morbid.

I'm hoping for his sixth birthday, Mr. E asks for an octopus. Wouldn't that be great!? One balloon and streamers for the legs!

Remember: You can buy a piñata at Wal-Mart, but really - this is more fun! :)

<3 AmberLou

sharing at a few of these parties!

Stuffie Stuffie Stuffie

2011-05-26T10:15:00.003-06:00

Remember THIS post? Miss H made a great gift for her mommy's birthday. Well her creativity didn't stop at just birthdays.

Here is the next installment of a Stuffie gift. Miss H made this for mommy's fabulous Mother's Day!

A flower that never wilts and dies. Who could ask for more?

Our Amanda has one talented girl! (Oma's can be biased - I think it's a law somewhere...)

~jan

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-25T19:17:00.000-06:00

I love spring!
~jan

Tickled Tastebuds Tuesday

2011-05-24T16:11:00.000-06:00

MMM...popcorn.

OOO....peanut butter!

You'd think I were pregnant, the way I've been craving these two food items.

I have been out of control!!!

No, Im not preggers but, even so...I am totally feeding into my cravings!

I found this recipe that COMBINES my two loves & made one tasty treat.

So, I am sharing my newest addiction with all of you and I hope its tastes as yummy to you as it does to me!

Sweet Peanut Butter Popcorn

Ingredients:

2 (3.5 ounce) packages microwave popcorn, popped

1/2 cup margarine

3/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup peanut butter

20 large marshmallows

Directions:

Pour popcorn into a large bowl. In a glass or plastic bowl, combine the margarine, brown sugar, and marshmallows.

Cook at 1 minute intervals in the microwave, stirring between each time, until the mixture is melted and smooth.

Stir in the peanut butter until well blended. Pour the melted mixture over the popcorn, and stir quickly to coat the corn before it cools.

Enjoy!

-Amanda

Pic borrowed from: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Peanut-Butter-Popcorn/Detail.aspx

Handmade Favor Bags

2011-05-23T04:52:00.010-06:00

My little boy had his 5th birthday party on Saturday (sad!) and I wanted to have a handmade party favor to give to the kiddies.

I decided on personalized drawstring bags for goodies.

I used this {super easy} tutorial, and made 20 goody bags.

Had to be careful with this picture... I can spell a swear word with all those initials!

I added an initial to each before assembling them, as well as bead{s} to the drawstring.

This was the first time I have used my free-motion foot for appliqué. Holy easy!

I had a really really hard time letting these sweet things leave my house!

We filled them with candies, squirt guns and bubbles, and Lip Smackers for the girls.

This was a fabulous project for stash busting! And all 20 bags took me about 4 hours total. (That 4 hours includes changing diapers and making lunch:) )

<3 AmberLou

Tickled Tastebuds Tuesday

2011-05-17T18:08:00.000-06:00

I have been gluten free for 2 years now!

I am constantly looking for new recipes to try out and this one is awesome!

Of course I forgot to take a photo of my homemade cake so Im borrowing the image from allrecipes.com....which is where I found this delicious cake recipe.

{Their image is much cuter than any pic I could take anyways!}

Gluten Free Yellow Cake

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups white rice flour

3/4 cup tapioca flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

3 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon xanthan gum

4 eggs

1 1/4 cups white sugar

2/3 cup mayonnaise

1 cup milk

2 teaspoons gluten-free vanilla extract

Directions

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and rice flour two 8 or 9 inch round cake pans.

2.Mix the white rice flour, tapioca flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder and xanthan gum together and set aside.

3.Mix the eggs, sugar, and mayonnaise until fluffy. Add the flour mixture, milk and vanilla and mix well. Spread batter into the prepared pans.

4.Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 minutes. Cakes are done when they spring back when lightly touched or when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Let cool completely then frost, if desired.

-Amanda

Tickled Tastebuds Tuesday

2011-05-10T10:19:00.000-06:00

I absolutely LOVE all the variations of Chex Mix snacks/treats!

Not being able to eat gluten has no bearing here because the cereal contains no gluten. {except for the wheat chex!} So, I often look to Chex Mix recipes when I need a yummy treat.

Here is one that I thought was especially delicious...and summery.

{Sorry I cant get the image to post.}

Tropical Island Chex Mix

8 cups Rice Chex® cereal

1 cup shredded coconut, if desired

1 cup dried banana chips

1 package (7 oz) dried tropical three-fruit mix

1 jar (3 oz) macadamia nuts

3 tablespoons butter or margarine

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup frozen (thawed) pineapple or orange juice concentrate

1) In large microwavable bowl, mix cereal, coconut, banana chips, tropical three-fruit mix and nuts.

2) In microwavable measuring cup, microwave butter uncovered on High about 30 seconds or until melted.

Stir in brown sugar and pineapple juice concentrate.

Microwave uncovered on High about 30 seconds or until hot.

Stir; pour over cereal mixture, stirring until evenly coated.

3) Microwave uncovered on High 6 to 8 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes, until mixture just begins to brown. Spread on waxed paper or foil; cool about 15 minutes.

Store in airtight container.

-Amanda

Family Geography

2011-05-09T09:20:00.002-06:00

My little boy has been on a map kick lately. I have no idea how it started. He's been drawing maps from our house to the post office, maps from the kitchen to his bedroom, maps of Tutu's island (Maui), maps of the world, and {oddly} maps of Jerusalem. (?)

I bought a globe awhile ago, and he's very good at finding our state, and Tutu's island, but he's had a hard time keeping track of where his aunties, uncles, grandpas and cousins live.

I found this map at Staples.

Hung it on his wall,

and printed up pictures of all his far-away relations.

I traced a circle using the bottom of my salt shaker,

and cut them all out

I glued them to a sheet of yellow cardstock (he picked the color)

and cut them out so they have a point. (So they point to the city!)

We stuck them to the map with sticky-tac (so they're movable. My family move a lot.)

I need to get a few more pictures to add to the map... I wish I knew someone on the East coast... that part of this map looks lonely...

This has been a really fun way for my four-year-old to understand geography a {little bit} better.

<3 AmberLou

sharing at a few of these parties...

Tickled Tastebuds Tuesday

2011-05-03T18:43:00.000-06:00

Mexican food is my FAV!

And even though I have no mexican heritage, I love celebrating Cinco De Mayo with my family by serving up some of our favorite mexican dishes.

I am sooo in love with coconut & pineapple right now, that I have decided to make our delicious:

Virgin Pina Colada's...as our tasty beverage!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup crushed ice

6 fluid ounces pineapple juice

1 fluid ounce coconut cream

1 fluid ounce heavy cream

1 pineapple wedge

1 maraschino cherry

Directions:

In a blender, combine ice, pineapple juice, coconut cream and heavy cream. Blend until smooth. Pour into glass and garnish with pineapple wedge and cherry.

This is a major hit with our family & friends!

Enjoy!

-Amanda

image provided by: http://www.scienceofdrink.com/category/rum/

Mommy's Stuffie Birthday!

2011-04-28T22:02:00.006-06:00

A little belated, but Happy Birthday to my one and only girl! Amanda had her birthday last Saturday. I had the pleasure of babysitting the grandbaby while Amanda and her sweetheart went to dinner - 175 miles away. So we used this book of sewing ideas to come up with a home sewn gift for mom.

Miss H is just barely 3 and LOVES coloring...moreso drawing! A few fabric markers and taped down cloth were the perfect way to begin a project with this little artist!

She drew a picture if Dad, Mom and herself ( I love the giant head and simple limb stage of development when drawing people )Miss H was very aware that each person is different and different colors were a MUST! Trust me on that, really!

We "cured" the marker color in the dryer and then cut out, stitched and stuffed our very first "stuffie". We popped it into a beautiful pink gift box and presented it to mom! Good news...she loved it!

(Good thing...cuz Miss H couldn't stop at drawing just one and Mother's Day is right around the corner,shh ;D)
Happy Stuffing!
~jan

I have linked to some of the parties we have listed. Thanks ladies for hosting such fun parties.

Tickled Tastebuds Tuesday

2011-04-26T10:05:00.001-06:00

Hope your Easter was family filled and fabulous!

Around this time of year I find myself with a plethora of colored hard boiled eggs.

Generally, they get turned into egg salad or the tradition deviled egg but, this year I am making this recipe:

Deviled Eggs with an Italian Twist

Ingredients :

12-hard-cooked eggs

4 oz. (1/2 of 8-oz. pkg.) PHILADELPHIA Neufchatel Cheese, softened

3 Tbsp. KRAFT Light Mayo Reduced Fat Mayonnaise

2 tsp. GREY POUPON Dijon Mustard

2 tsp. white vinegar

1 tsp. sugar

1 Tbsp. fresh basil; chopped well.

1 Tbsp. finely chopped sun dried tomatoes {packed in oil}

1 Tbsp. prosciutto; diced

1/8 tsp. paprika

Cut eggs lengthwise in half.

Remove yolks; place in mixing bowl.

Add all remaining ingredients except paprika; mix well.

Spoon into resealable plastic bag. Cut small corner from bottom of bag; use to pipe filling into egg white halves. Sprinkle with paprika.

Easy as pie! Enjoy your twisted eggs!

-Amanda

Image borrowed from:

http://www.fredmeyer.com/great_meals/leigh_ann_recipes/appetizers/Pages/deviled_eggs.aspx

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T12:00:00.002-06:00

~jan

Linked at...
http://www.5minutesformom.com/ and

<>

Tickled Tastebuds Tuesday

2011-04-19T20:14:00.000-06:00

Im going through some serious cravings right now. No, Im not pregnant, just cant get enough of Winger's Grill & Bar.

Their Original Amazing Sauce is my favorite. I could slather it on old sneakers, and eat it! {Although, I do suggest eating it slathered on chicken strips}

Since I have already eaten there this week...and still want more...I am making me some:

Copycat Wingers Sticky Fingers!

the recipe is as follows:

2 1/2 C. brown sugar

3TBS. light corn syrup

1/2 C. hot water

1/3 C. Frank's Red Hot pepper sauce

1 TBS. apple cider vinegar

1 LB. bag of chicken strips {grilled chicken is my preference, the tempura strips are the hubbys}

Directions: In a heavy saucepan, mix brown sugar and corn syrup for 3 minutes; stir continually. Add the other ingredients and boil on low for 15 minutes. Continue stirring during this time, careful so it doesnt burn!

The sauce will thicken as it cools.

While cooling cook {or grill} chicken as directed on package. When finished, remove from oven and while still warm [use tongs] dip chicken strips into the sauce, generously.

Place onto cooking sheet or stone and broil for 5 minutes [just over 2 minutes on each side.]

Serve up with celery sticks and ranch/blue cheese dressing! YUM.

I also love to make a salad using romaine, the chicken pieces, jack cheese, craisins, and tomatoes.

I mix some of the amazing sauce with ranch to give it a lil kick and pour over the top. Mmm its my favorite!

Enjoy!

-Amanda

Edible Easter Basket

2011-04-14T08:17:00.000-06:00

My mom once told me how in her first year of marriage to my father she made him an edible easter basket out of Rice Krispies. My dad, having an insatiable sweet tooth was sure to love it. She then filled it with all the easter goodies giving him 3x the sweetness of the average easter tradition.

I decided to try it for myself....

so technically this isnt my idea but rather,borrowed from my mamacita but,

Im sure she would love me sharing her genius:)

Instead of making a giant easter basket {using a large mixing bowl as the mold} I made a "my size" individual basket out of a large-ish cereal bowl.

(I say "my size" because my dad would disagree and say the mixing bowl is an individual size treat!)

Feel free to make a large basket, just double the recipe:)

I used the recipe for Rice Krispie treats off the box and added a little extra cereal so it wasn't too sticky to mold in the bowl. I also added some sprinkles for an extra burst of springtime color!

I then sprayed {rather generously} my cereal bowl with cooking spray...as well as my hands!

Taking a handful of the rice krispie mixture, I pressed it into the bowl until I achieved my desired thickness. Repeat this process until the entire bowl is lined.

When finished it looks something like this:

Making the handle was a little tricky. Had I planned on doing this earlier, I would have made sure I had a 'bendy' straw to mold the krispies around. But, I had nothing to use as support for the basket handle so I got inventive.

*side-note: This is where high school pottery class would have come in handy. Too bad I flirted my time away in there! Sorry Mr. Teacher {I cant remember your name.}

If your teen ever complains saying they will never use what they are learning as an adult, this is a prime example of how wrong they are. Haha!

Anywho, pretending your a child using play dough, 'roll' the krispies into a thick snake. If you get it too thin you will notice it starting to fall apart when bending. In that situation ADD MORE KRISPIE!!!

I used the side of that same cereal bowl to form a "C" shape with my rice krispie snake so it would look like a handle and then threw the "C" into the freezer to harden it up a bit.

After a few minutes take the treat out of the freezer and attach it to your basket, pressing the sides of the handle into the bowl.

I put a small childrens cup inside my basket for additional support. (Never having done this before, I was concerned the handle would cave in. It didn't. So this step is optional!)

This is what my "cup-tastrophe" looked like.

Ok, So it wasnt a catastrophe but, getting that cup out wasn't as easy as I thought it would be! That's why I am totally saying OPTIONAL!

After covering it with a dish towel {I didnt want to krispies to be too hard} and letting it sit over-night. I woke up, pulled out the cup and Wal-lah!!!

We have an edible easter basket baby!!!!

Fill her up with cotton candy as grass and some yummy easter candy.

For more edible easter ideas visit this link.

Hope you enjoy your easter!

-Amanda

Banana Pancakes

2011-04-12T08:30:00.010-06:00

I love pancakes! I make them just about every weekend. Last weekend I made them twice. Sunday I made huckleberry pecan pancakes, which were to die for. Saturday I made BANANA PANCAKES! I found a low-cal healthy recipe I really wanted to try and they were so good I decided to share them with you. I also loved the idea of these pancakes because my oldest son, who is serving an LDS mission, plays the guitar and THIS song by Jack Johnson was one of the first he learned to play.
Banana Pancakes

1/4 c whole wheat flour
1/4 c ripe banana, mashed
3 T Egg Beaters (I used 1 egg white instead)
1 T skim milk (or more if the batter is too thick)
1/4 t baking powder
1/4 t vanilla
1 packet Equal or other artifical sweetener
dash salt
dash cinnamon
dash nutmeg

Combine all the dry ingredients. Combine all the wet ingredients. Mix together. This is a thickish batter; it won’t be as thin as regular pancake batter. Cook 5 pancakes on a hot griddle.
(I added 1Tbl. of finely chopped pecans for a crunchy kick!)

This recipe came from 400 Calories or Less Everyday Meals for Everyday Living 1 serving = 185 calories per serving
Aileen has several recipes on her website I can't wait to try. Give her a look-see. Enjoy! ~jan

I love participating in THESE linky parties! AND

Thanks Ladies!

Wordless Wednesday - Therapy!

2011-04-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

The Gluten Free Happy Meal

2011-04-05T09:09:00.002-06:00

Recently, It was brought to my attention that I have been poisoning my beautiful 3 year old with the very same ingredient that altered my digestion for 23 years...gluten.

I was immediately struck with panic & fear that no one seemed to understand. The general response was "at least you know what your doing" or "so lucky your already gluten free!"

I do not in any way feel lucky! I have been gluten free for 2 years and have learned to cook for myself, an adult.

But, a gluten free child is a WHOLE new ball park. Birthday parties, school treats/lunch, Halloween and the beloved Happy Meal have been snatched from my toddler and it overwhelms me with how to compensate for her genetics.

So I did some searching...and decided I should move to Sweden, or rather move back, since it is where my family is originally from. Yes, it is true....you can walk into any McDonald's {or Burger King} and order your burger on a GLUTEN FREE BUN!!!

Awesome.

But, since moving isn't really an option, I found a bloggin' mama who has been there, done that and I HAD to share what I WILL be doing for my daughter!

Heidi from Adventures of a Gluten Free Mom loves to confuse the McD's staff by buying all the fixin's for a happy meal...minus all the food. {luckily, I have siblings that work there!} and fills them with her own GF chicken nuggets and french fries.

Did you know you could go to McDonald's and just buy the toy? People do it all. the. time.

My totally cool Mother posted awhile back a YUMMY chicken nugget recipe that is a MUST inside the chicken nuggets box!

My husband works for the plant that actually makes the french fries that McDonald's serves and can buy them in bulk from his work for a fraction of the price. {Perks of being an employee!} So Miss H gets the real deal at home minus the cross contamination! {although I will say, the french fries at the restaurant have never made me ill, that I'm aware of.}

Throw in a toy and juice box and you have yourself a homemade gluten free happy meal.

It may seem like a bit more work than visiting the drive-through but, its totally worth the smile from your GF child!

-Amanda
We link to these parties.

The Big Boy Post

2011-04-04T04:58:00.007-06:00

My big boy, who is turning 5 next month recently moved out of his toddler bed into a Big Boy Bed!

Of course this occasion calls for a quilt!

I really liked Amanda Jean's Round and Round Quilt,

but I admit I hate cutting tiny things, so I modified it and made my squares 3" instead of 2".

I also used really {manly} colors. (Cause it's for a big boy!)

My favorite bit, by {far} is the pieced binding. It makes me happy to look at it.

Mr. E and I are both super happy with how it turned out.

<3 AmberLou

Oh Cr@p! Now what?

2011-04-01T12:58:00.004-06:00

My Sweet Baboo and I came home a little later than usual a few days ago and found that the freezer compartment of our refrigerator had been ajar all day. Unfortunately, we had purchased a fair amount of meat not long before that, so I ~~had~~ got to spend the better part of my next day off dealing with a bunch of prematurely thawed chicken, pork and beef (the ice cream and frozen produce went directly into the trash {pout}).

Fortunately, I own three crock pots, so I was able to deal with them all at once. I cooked 7 chicken breasts,

two round steaks,

and eight thick cut pork chops.

I slow cooked them all separately, then chopped/shredded them and portioned them for meals and refroze.

I did the best I could and saved the $40-50 it would have cost to replace all that meat. But now I'm finding I like having the precooked/preportioned meat for quick meals.

Here are some tips (from a legitimate food safety expert. No really. That's what I do!) for what you can do if you have an extended power outage, or are just careless and leave your freezer open all day when it's 85°F outside. For simplicity's sake, I'll just address the problem of an extended power outage (which we had here recently too).

Keep the refrigerator CLOSED. If the power is out for 4-6 hours or so, your foods will remain at proper temperatures for at least that long if the door stays shut. A fully stocked freezer will stay frozen even longer, but only if the door is shut. Once you open the door, even for a second, the cold air dissipates much quicker than you might expect.
When the power comes back on, evaluate your potentially hazardous foods (PHF). Be particularly careful about packaged meat products (cold cuts etc), dairy products, raw meats and leftovers. The food code allows these foods to remain in the "danger zone" (41°F to 140°F) for no more than 4 hours. If you have a food thermometer (and I recommend that you do, for cooking temperatures as well), use it. If your PHF are < 41°F (I would feel comfortable with 45°F or below, but no higher!), they are safe to be used and can be rechilled with no ill effects.
Hard cheeses, raw produce, commercially prepared dressings and condiments (such as mayonnaise) and eggs in intact shells are usually safe to eat, even after many hours of temperature abuse.
If the PHF is warmer than 45°F or so, you'll have to make a judgement call. If the power was out for an extended period (longer than 8 hours or so) chances are the foods have been in the danger zone for at least half of that (> 4 hours) and should be discarded. If the power was out for a shorter time, the food might still be safe, but it's a risk. The rule is, when in doubt, throw it out.
If the products in your freezer have completely thawed (no ice crystals remaining), you'll need to use them right away or cook them before you refreeze. If there are ice crystals remaining, you should be able to refreeze safely, though there may be a decrease in the taste and quality of the food.
When cooking meats that have been thawed unexpectedly, be extra sure to cook to the recommended temperatures to destroy all pathogenic organisms. Chicken and other poultry must cook to 165°F or above, pork and ground beef to at least 155°F. Use a metal stem thermometer to be sure of your cooking temperatures.
When cooling down large quantities of foods, be certain to cool quickly. Put the hot foods in shallow pans or small portions, and allow plenty of room in the freezer around the product to ensure that they cool completely.

Once the product is frozen, it is safe to stack them to save space.

I know that times are tough and food prices just keep going up, so it's painful to waste food, but the danger is real. Your family's health is not worth the risk of eating tainted foods. When in doubt, be safe and throw it out. Lorie

Banana Cake

2011-03-31T05:07:00.003-06:00

In honor of my mother, I am sharing a recipe for banana cake. She always made this to go to my dad's family reunion. Several family members asked for it again and again...so...yes, Nancy, I will continue with the tradition.

In the mixing process. It isn't this yellow, but you know how lighting and cell phone cameras are...

1/2 cup butter
1 cup white sugar
3/4 cup lt. brown sugar
2 eggs
3 large, ripe bananas, mashed
2/3 cup buttermilk

Cream this all together. Gently add:

2 1/2 cups flour
1 Tbsp. baking soda
-1/2 cup nuts are optional-

Bake in a non-stick 9 x 13 cake pan (or use nonstick spray) at 350 degrees for approx. 40 minutes.

Cool cake completely and then frost. Mom always used a buttercream frosting to appease Dad, but I prefer a cream cheese frosting. This is even tasty with a light chocolate frosting. To each his own!
Enjoy however you make it!
~jan

PS. Nancy...which frosting do you prefer?

She Loves Green!

2011-03-29T09:26:00.006-06:00

Since moving into our home two years ago, I have changed my daughters room three times. Our current color palatte...neon green and turquoise. This is what Miss H's room looked like before...

Here is the during process...

and this is the new room with a few things left to do.

I wasn't too sure how it would turn out but I just went with what the adorable three-year old chose and I must say she has some fun taste. Nice choice baby girl...
Amanda

Facing Anxieties

2011-03-28T04:54:00.003-06:00

I like to think that I Fear No Craft! (Because I am very {brave}, you see.)

I admit I have been a tiny bit apprehensive (not scared!) about a few aspects of quilting. Pinwheels and free-motion quilting. They just look ~~scary~~ intimidating!

I decided to combine them into one project, and get over it.

Ms. Amanda's little girl had a birthday recently, and I made a little doll quilt for her with this pattern.

This pattern ends up being 18x18, and I made it entirely out of scraps.

Pinwheels? Piece o' cake. Free-motion quilting? So fun!

I will be doing both of these again very soon, and now I'm looking for something else that ~~frightens~~ bothers me to try out!

My daughter tries out the quilt... guaranteed to keep even the chilliest of dollies cozy!

<3 AmberLou

Eric's Adventures in Baking

2011-03-25T05:00:00.001-06:00

My Sweet Baboo needed a dessert for an event at his job not long ago, and I encouraged him to make a cake himself. He freaked out a bit, but I assured him he was capable and that I'd make sure he didn't burn down the house or break anything important.

Starting with a boxed chocolate cake mix, he mixed it according to the package directions.

Next, he folded in a can of cherry pie filling and a cup of chocolate chips. (please ignore the recycling next to the mixer how embarrassing!). Then he baked it in a bundt pan, and I helped him make a chocolate glaze for it.

It turned out beautiful and was extremely tasty. Next time we'll try a lemon poppyseed cake, just for fun.

See honey, that wasn't so hard, was it?

He Can Sew!

2011-03-24T05:40:00.001-06:00

My son had a teen-living class last trimester. One assignment was to sew a pillowcase, which he put off until the last day of the tri. So he was whipping one out under pressure at the last critical minute - he has a habit of this and I hide my face in shame to say he came by this unfortunate trait quite honestly.

His only requirments were to make one to actually fit a pillow he owned, use a straight seam, a zig-zag seam and iron open the seams and the finished project.

So here he is... Sewing his straight seam.

Measuring his hem. He had to improvise because his unorganized mom couldn't find her seam gauge. He was appalled he couldn't just 'eye-ball it'. (Another bad inherited trait - yikes)

Ironing the finished product. You can see his very straight zig-zag top-stitching done in white.

His precise measuring and slow guided stitching paid-off! His teacher raved about his great job and was so frustrated with him when she found out this wasn't the first sewing project he had done. But seriously, he is 15 and so very cool, how would that have looked to admit that in class with his posse (and harem) looking on?

Happy Sewing!
~jan

No- Bake Cornflake Cookies

2011-03-22T11:20:00.009-06:00

This is one of my favorite recipes!

They are quick and easy to make, and bring back such yummy childhood memories:)

I made these the other day for my husband and daughter and they gobbled them up...I was lucky to get a couple pictures!

My almost 3 year old {on Thursday!}isn't one for sweets but, she LOVED these.

I. was. shocked.

I admit I was kinda hoping there would be more for me but, Im glad I can share my childhood yumminess with the two people I love the most so without further ado:

Momma Jan's Cornflake Cookies

1/2 c. corn syrup

3/4 c. white sugar

1/2 c. peanut butter (both creamy & nutty work)

Combine in saucepan on stove (med. high heat) until all blended and smooth.

Remove from heat and add...

1 c. mini marshmallows

mix until melted into sauce. pour over...

6 c. cornflakes (I have used regular or frosted flakes)

stir all together and scoop by spoonfuls onto wax paper.

Cool...and eat!

So Yummy!!!

-Amanda

we link to these parties.
and these:

A southern fairytale.

Prairie Story.

Life As Mom.

Patty's Day Popcorn Balls

2011-03-16T20:52:00.007-06:00

My St. Patrick's Day bribe for my students. Do you think it will work?

I used some cute printable tags from Elizabeth at To Be Charmed. Thank you for sharing. My picture doesn't show off how cute they really are so check them out on her blog.
Here's the easy recipe.

2c. light corn syrup
1c. sugar
1 box (6oz.) lime jello (or the color appropriate for the season)
22 cups air-popped popcorn
1/4 cup butter or margarine

Mix first 3 ingredients in a heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook until all the sugar is dissolved - don't overcook. Pour over popped corn and stir very well. Rub hands with butter then make into balls and let cool on waxed paper. You will need to use butter repeatedly so the gooey balls don't keep sticking to your hands. Good luck and let me know how yours turn out.
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
~jan
Linking to some of THESE parties.
and http://annkroeker.com/

Decor on a Dollar!

2011-03-12T11:33:00.002-07:00

From Boring...

To Bam!

What were the chances of finding a decal for this spot at the Dollar Tree that actually matches the color palette of the room? I am doing some big changes in the kitchen and dining area, but the process is lengthy and I am so tired of the BLAH look. So $1 added some color and a great message.

Happy Weekend!
~jan

Spring Break Blah Busters

2011-03-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

Are you staying home this spring break?

Do you need some kids activity ideas?

Head on over to Tip Junkie today for 38 awesome activities to do with your kiddos over the break....

including one of our ideas!

Thanks Tip Junkie for featuring our Marshmallow Play Dough!

Upside Down Spaghetti

2011-03-07T09:54:00.001-07:00

1 lb. hamburger

1/4 c. diced onions

1/4 c. green peppers

1/4 c. chopped mushrooms

1 pkg. spaghetti noodles (we use Gluten Free)

1 8 oz. block cream cheese

1 c. sour cream

2 c. shredded cheese.

1 jar of favorite spaghetti sauce...or your own homemade recipe.

Brown hamburger & veggies. Mix cream cheese and sour cream. Layer a 9x13 pan with the cream cheese mixture, noodles, hamburger mixture, 2 cups of shredded cheese (of your choosing. I have used both mozzerela & cheddar and they are both yummy!) And lastly add the spaghetti sauce.

Take a table knife and poke holes to help sauce drain down through noodles. Cook for 45 minutes to an hour at 350 degrees.

After cooling, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and serve!

This recipe is delicious, a great take on the classic spaghetti.

As you can see, lil miss thinks its tasty!

-Amanda

picture via :http://blisstree.com/eat/baked-spaghetti-with-mushrooms/

St. Patricks Day Menu

2011-03-03T05:18:00.003-07:00

For years we have celebrated St. Patty's Day with green food at Breakfast and Dinner (the kids had lunch at school). I want to share my typical menu - although it changes with crazy whims on occasion - but this is pretty close to the typical. You don't have to be a master cook to cook a green meal. Green food coloring is your friend for this holiday!

Breakfast:
Green Scones with butter and honey
Green colored milk - when the kids were young, I blamed it on a leprechaun:)

After school snack:
Hostess Green Sno-balls OR
Lime Sherbet/vanilla yogurt smoothies

Dinner:
Green Chicken Pillows (also called bundles, bread filled with chicken and cream cheese mixture and then baked. Take a look at THIS recipe on Allrecipes.com. It is very similar - except mine are GREEN of course.

Green Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce-to go over pillows.
Green peas
Lime jello and whipped cream parfaits.
Lime flavored Kool-aid (the only time we buy Kool-aid!)

Dessert:
Chocolate Mint Dessert OR
Grasshopper Pie (so pretty when made in a spring form pan. I like to put a layer of hot fudge on the crust then the ice cream and zig-zags of hot fudge over the top)

I make my favorite bread recipe and add green food coloring. The recipe I use I make the night before and it rises in the fridge overnight. It is used for the scones and also the chicken pillows.
~jan

Linked to...
some of THESE Wonderful Parties

photo: http://brooklynpix.wordpress.com/2010/03/14/leprechaun
http://www.stockfood.co.za/results.asp?txtkeys=Woodruff

Banana Nut Muffins

2011-02-24T04:45:00.001-07:00

We love muffins at our house! I have even been called the Muffin Mom in years past. Here is the most popular recipe I use.

1 stick butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 large bananas mashed
2 cups flour
1/2 teas. salt
1 teas. baking powder
1/2 teas. baking soda
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1 teas. vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Prepare muffin tins with either non-stick spray or paper liners.

Beat butter, sugar, eggs and mashed bananas together. Toss in flour, salt, baking powder and soda and the milk, mix until dry ingredients are moist - not a good idea to over mix. Stir in vanilla and nuts. Using an ice cream scooper that has the lever fill muffin tins 2/3 way full. I like to place a pecan half to the top before baking, but in the pictures you will see I didn't; I forgot and crushed them all.
Bake for about 15 minutes. Remove from tins immediately. Serve with last weeks Amish Breakfast Casserole.

I made a batch of multi-sized muffins for the various sizes of appetites I feed regularly. They are so yummy warm with a little butter melted inside - or not.
I have linked to some of these fabulous parties.
~jan

Y.U.M.M.Y

2011-02-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

So, I am currently doing The Master Cleanse.

For personal reasons, It sounded like a good option for me. Its supposed to clean out toxins and some people have said it helped with their food intolerance's, which I have a few...Its too early to say if its working but, if anything, it will convince me that I do have some self control :)

When I get off this crazy ride I fully intend on having myself a "free day" once a week or so, to eat some delicious treats that life shouldn't go without!

I thought I would share these YUMMY goodies with y'all so you can taste for yourself the wonderful-ness of splurging, cheating or whatever it is you call taking a break from our endless detoxes and diets that we as women put ourselves through.

Treat #1: Raspberry Freezer Dessert

This recipe totally tickles my taste buds and

I am sooo happy that Judy from Cranberry Morning shared this with me.

YUM!

Check out the link for the recipe...you'll be glad you did.

Treat #2: Coconut Ice Cream with Caramelized Bananas

The taste combination{s} are AMAZING!

I heart ice cream. Its not too heavy so I don't feel like a pig when I eat it,

[as long as I don't eat the whole container!]

Again, check out the link for the recipe...Ashlie & Alfred rocked my world with this one;)

Treat #3: Easy No-Bake Oatmeal Cookies

I seriously LOVE making no-bake cookies.

These are easy and SUPER yummy....a nice break from the chocolate-y ones I usually make.

You just gotta check this link out!

This is just one of the crazy good recipes Liz has to offer!

A special thanks to these bloggers for sharing their divine recipes.

Keep doing what your doing...for the taste buds!

Lotsa Love,

Amanda

Scenic Sunday

2011-02-20T09:23:00.000-07:00

Mormon Rock in Southern California

The Best Breakfast Casserole

2011-02-17T08:55:00.004-07:00

This is my new favorite recipe for breakfast and brunch. Don't let the cottage cheese fool you. IT and the Swiss cheese make the recipe!! I do make this 'semi-homemade'. I used the package of Real Bacon Bits (not granules of imitation)and all the cheese I bought pre-shredded- it was on sale of course. There is a suggestion for using cold baked potatoes and shredding them, but I semi'ed and bought a frozen bag of shreads. This is more hashbrowns and bacon than eggs - which is why it appeals to me.

I make this the night before and then pop it in the cold oven before preheating so the glass dish warms with the oven and doesn't break. I served this recipe this past Saturday for a brunch celebrating my son's 18th Birthday! It was a hit as always!

Amish Breakfast Casserole
• 1 pound sliced bacon, diced
• 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
• 6 eggs, lightly beaten
• 4 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups small curd cottage cheese
• 1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese
-In a large skillet, cook bacon and onion until bacon is crisp; drain. In a bowl, combine the remaining ingredients; stir in bacon mixture. Transfer to a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. glass baking dish.
-Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 35-40 minutes or until set and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting.

I originally found this recipe here...
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Amish-Breakfast-Casserole/Detail.aspx where you will find other suggestions to mix it up a bit. I have used variatons of different cheeses, and I always go back to swiss.

My photo didn't turn out too well, so I used one from allrecipes.

Quiet Books

2011-02-11T05:00:00.007-07:00

New grandbabies + new sewing machine = WAY too much fun for Lorie!

I've been working on birthday gifts for some of the babies in my life and this is one of the books I made for a friend's child's first birthday last week.

Presenting:

Including the cutest blue octopus in the world:

The most adorable green baby dragon:

A darling yellow chick:

A friendly tiger:

And a stripey zebra.

This one was a warm-up for my granddaughter's birthday later in the month! I've had so much picturing the babies learning their colors and being quietly entertained by these books made specially for them!

Sweet Baby Handprints

2011-02-07T04:07:00.002-07:00

Phew! And we're back! Happy February, everyone!

I've missed being here. A lot! Weddings, funerals, and missionary farewells are {hopefully} done for the year.

For Christmas each year since my son was born, he has (well, I have) made a hand print gift for my Mom.

For his first Christmas, we made her a t-shirt with a reindeer

For his second Christmas, we made a giraffe painting, and we've stuck with framed paintings in the years since.

Third Christmas

Fourth Christmas

This year we deviated from the jungle theme, and made an undersea painting, and added his baby sister's footprint (the squid) to make it a family affair.

This has been a sweet gift for Tutu (grandma), even though it makes us all a little sad to see how much his little hands are growing!

I found this blog useful for hand and footprint art ideas. I found it very useful to glob the paint onto hands and feet instead of dipping and stamping. I used regular non-toxic acrylic paint, and it washed off very easily. As my boy got bigger, he was able to finger paint the other elements (grass, trees, the sun) by himself, which of course makes him so proud.

<3 AmberLou

A Cute Valentines Gift

2011-02-01T10:09:00.002-07:00

Last year, I wanted to do something on Valentines day for my daughter's Oma & Uncles.

She just loves them to death!

So I got crafty with:

-empty glass soda bottles [and the carrier thay came in.]

-craft paper and supplies.

-ribbon

-paint

-V-day candy

I covered each bottle with paper and ribbon and made a tag with each initial of my mom & siblings so they knew which was theirs.

I then filled them with assorted red, pink & white candies. [wash the bottles out first!]

I painted the 'Dads Root Beer' case with red paint just so it would cover any place where there wasn't any paper.

After it was dry, I decorated the case with paper and replaced the bottles and wall-ah. It was so simple and easy to make but it was adorable and a non-traditional way to deliver your Valentines treat.

Some candy that fit down the long neck bottle are:

-any kind of M&M's

-candy corn

-red hot candies

- candy hearts

-gumballs

There are too many too list.

You dont have to stick to the color theme in the candy if you dont want:)

-Amanda

we link to these lovely parties

Someone is Having a Birthday!!

2011-01-31T11:21:00.004-07:00

Our very own LORIE is celebrating her birthday today!!!
We love you Lorie and hope you have a terrific day in the sunshine of Hawaii!
Have a piece of cake for each of us please. Have a fabulous day! We miss you!
~xoxoxo

Imagination and inspiration! Thanks!

2011-01-27T08:47:00.008-07:00

Due to my complete immune system breakdown, I have not finished my sewing projects. So today I am featuring some great ideas I have seen in bloggerland[and don't have the energy to replicate]. I am always amazed by the incredible imagination and talent people have acquired.

I am in love with these valentine bags!Find them at http://tencowchick.com/2011/01/15/valentine-chair-backers/

These 'Love Trees' prove trees are not just for Christmas! So chic! Check them out at
http://brassyapple.blogspot.com/2011/01/love-treestutorial.html

This is one of those super cute crafts that you say to yourself, "why didn't I think of that?" I am on a quest a find cupcake liners [one more thing to hoard] So glad you shared. Find the tutorial here...http://brandyscrafts.blogspot.com/2011/01/simple-valentines-day-topiary.html

Love. Love. Love... this subway art! I lived in New Orleans as a nanny back in 1984 and this inspired work brought back such memories. Thanks! You can find it here...
http://www.bigdandme.com/2011/01/kelly-b-day-gift/

Have a FABULOUS Thursday!
~jan

Warming up in Winter

2011-01-21T18:04:00.009-07:00

After 5 days of respiratory illness I just had to have some homemade soup to warm up my insides. It took a while to energize myself to get all the veggies chopped and shredded but alas, a family favorite! We like this with bread to dip or in a soup bread bowl. I made do with a whole wheat hoagie roll sliced up since I was too contagious to go shopping. I hope you enjoy this on a cold winters day.

Cheesy Potato Soup

1 large carrot shredded
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
1/2 cup finely chopped broccoli
5 cups of sliced potatoes
4 chicken flavored bouillon cubes
1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

Cover with water and simmer until vegetables are tender. Using a fork, mash some of the potatoes against the inside of the pot, it makes a thicker soup.

3/4 cup butter
1/3 cup cornstarch
1 can evaporated milk
12 oz. Cheez Whiz
Salt and pepper to taste

I just toss the butter into the pot with the veggies and let it melt on a boil. In a small bowl mix the evap. milk and cornstarch freeing it from lumps. Pour into the soup pot and stir until thickening begins. Scoop in the Cheez Whiz and continue stirring until melted. Soup will be very hot, so let it cool a bit while you slice the bread or hollow out the bread bowls.

Warm soup is so healing to me! Enjoy :)

*I always thicken with gluten free cornstarch rather than flour, but you could use flour if that is your preference.
~jan

Linking to some of THESE wonderful parties.

2011-01-19T17:49:00.000-07:00

Please forgive our absence in posts.

The majority of us are going through illness.

We hope to be feeling better soon:)

Keep checking back for new posts. Hopefully, we are better soon.

Thanks for being loyal followers!

Easy Pulled Pork

2011-01-13T11:56:00.008-07:00

During the winter months I often use the slow cooker to have dinner ready when I get home from work. This recipe is very easy and my kids tell me it is better than the pulled pork from Texas Roadhouse.

1 cup beef broth
1 liter of rootbeer (or a little more if need to cover the meat)
1 minced garlic clove
1 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. coarse ground pepper
3 pounds of pork shoulder

Trim all the fat off the pork and pierce with a large fork. Place in slow cooker and pour liquids over the meat. Add garlic. Cook on low for about 8 hours. Remove from cooker and use 2 forks to pull meat apart into shreds. Dump liquids from the cooker. Return shredded meat to slow cooker and turn up to high. Add 1 small bottle of BBQ sauce (we prefer Sweet Baby Rays). Toss meat until well coated with the sauce and then continue cooking in slow cooker for 30 to 45 minutes.

Serve on toasted hamburger buns or as the main dish with some garlic red potatoes and grilled veggie skewer on the side. Enjoy!!

Join me at THESE linky parties!!

Picture courtesty of http://www.mccormick.com/Recipes/Slow-Cooker/Slow-Cookers-BBQ-Pulled-Pork.aspx

Bridal Shower

2011-01-07T05:00:00.001-07:00

My youngest daughter threw a bridal shower for her sister earlier this week. I made an assortment of kitchen linens and a family cook book to give as my gift.

The towels are just some plain white kitchen towels that I embellished with machine embroidery and applique.

I knitted a collection of dishcloths using a well-known simple pattern.

Using 100% cotton yarn, cast on 4 stitches
Knit 2, yarn over, knit across to the end. Repeat until you have 40 stitches on your needle.
For decrease rows, knit one, knit 2 together, yarn over knit 2 together, then knit across until only 4 stitches remain.
Bind off and work in edges.

The napkins are just some checked linen that I serged to finish the edges.

And I made some appliqued and quilted hot pads.

For the cookbook, I printed our family recipes, 4 to a sheet on white card stock.

Then cut them to 4" x 5.5" to fit in a 4x6 photo album.

I organized them into categories for ease of use.

Instead of a paper gift bag, I bought a Hawaiian themed reusable shopping bag to hold it all.

Gluten Free Chocolate Caramel Layers

2011-01-06T05:18:00.001-07:00

I saw THIS yummy looking treat and wanted to make them for the holidays. Since Paisley's very own Amanda is not able to intake gluten, I revised this so she could indulge in the yumminess. The revised version is printed below. If you are not worried about gluten, click on the link and follow the recipe from the Purcells.

Crust:
1 1/2 cups gluten free oatmeal
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tsp cornstarch
1 stick butter, cut into pieces
1 Tbs ice water
1 egg yolk

Toppings:
14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
6 Tbs butter
2 Tbs corn syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. grease a 8 1/2-inch square metal baking pan. Blend oats in the food processor until powdery. Add brown sugar and cornstarch. Add butter and pulse until a coarse meal forms. Add ice water and egg yolk and blend just until moist clumps form. Press dough onto bottom of pan evenly. Bake 15 - 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely!

Whisk together condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves, butter melts and mixture comes to a boil. Insert a candy thermometer and boil gently until caramel is thick and temperature reaches 225 degrees F. Whisk constantly to prevent from burning. Pour caramel evenly over cooled crust and let set 15 minutes. Melt chocolate in a double boiler, stirring occasionally. Spread melted chocolate evenly over caramel layer. Refrigerate until set, at least one hour. Can be made three days ahead if covered and refrigerated. Cut into bars and enjoy!

Enjoy!
We link to THESE parties:)
AND Katie's Cucina - Food on Fridays

We Must Be Doing Something Right

2011-01-05T01:40:00.004-07:00

We are SO excited to have received this amazing award from Crafty Like Lindy!

Her blog is definitely 'stylish' and if you haven't become a follower of hers...you should!

She had the delicious recipe for Cherry Blossoms that I featured a few weeks ago. They were so good.

Thank you Lindy:]

To accept this Award you must:

1. Thank and link back to the person who awarded you this award.

2. Share 7 things about yourself.

3. Award 15 recently discovered great bloggers.

4. Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award!

So here we go...7 things about Amanda:

1. The hotter the better!

Food that is...I cant get enough of spicy & hot foods.

Our garden this past year consisted solely of hot peppers and they made the best hot sauce, rubs and salsa I've ever had!

2. I am 23, have been married for 4 years and have a nearly 3 year old.

People think I'm crazy & too young to have a family but, I wouldn't change one. single. thing.

3. There is nothing more therapeutic to me than painting the walls in our home.

I love the change and seeing the finished product.

4. I don't have a runners body...my legs are really short but,

I love to go for a nice run and the occasional race.

5. I am super competitive.

Which can be a curse because I take everything personally and obviously cant win at everything.

6. My favorite food is cheese...and I'm lactose intolerant:/

7. I love to make crafts as easy as possible...I'm all about the glue gun and tape!

Now , for 15 blogs who have made an impact on The Paisley Cupcake:

1.Giggles, Glitz & Glam....The cutest name in blog history:]
and she has made some adorable tutus...I think my lil girl needs one!

2. Sugar Bananas...I featured her a few months ago for the yummiest lip balm and sooo easy to make:]

3. Miz Helen's Country Cottage...my mouth waters everytime I take a look at her blog. Yummy Recipes!

4. Sand To Pearl...Introducing the queen of upcycling! There are some great tutorials I especially love the leg warmers for girl & dolly...I am going to do this for my lil gal!

5. Sew Into Crafts....cute cute cute! This bag won me over:]

6. From the Hive...her recent post Checker Board Quilt is soo cute. Beth's blog derserves some recognition.

7. Felt so Cute... These Valentines pillows caught my eye. LOVE THEM!

8. Designer Garden...Love. Her. Style! this pic says it all!!!

9. I'm a Mom not a Professional...as a SAHM myself, amen!!! Love this blog and this cute scarf:]

9.A sprinkle of this...a dash of that...Give this newcomer to blog world a warm welcome! She deserves it:]
I love her tutorial for a toddler belt....heaven knows my toddler has been needing one! I am sooo making one.

10. Little Eme...cute blog, cute background, cute stuff! I want a lil boy just so I can have this sock monkey hat!

11. Flexible Dreams...I think we could be friends...love her humor & her blog:]

12. The Quick UnPick...relatively new to blogging...she gets an A+ for her crafting ablilties! Check her out and become a follower!

13. My Boss is Teething...Funny & real. Jen's blog is totally on its way to popularity!

14.Mostly Food and Crafts....OMG...her Jalapeno Popper Dip made my tummy rumble!!!
Cant wait to make it:]

15. Taradara...Once again, I adore this bloggers style! Check her out...she has an esty shop if you like whatcha see:]

Thank you all our readers for making what we do, important! we Heart all of you & your many blogs:]

Get Well Soon

2011-01-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

I adore my neighbors.

They have been so helpful since we moved in and have even adopted my daughter as one of their grandchildren:]

So when Mr. B got ill this past fall, a simple get well soon card wouldn't suffice.

I put my lil girl to work {she loves helping in the kitchen}

and made some super yummy cookies...Mr. B has a sweet tooth!

[You can find the recipe here.]

Rather than putting them on a flimsy paper plate I decided to make them have more feeling by dressing them up with some ribbon and a canning jar {with a wide opening.}

I sprayed the lid with silver paint and wrapped a "happy" colored ribbon around it.

I then made a card with my cricut and we went over for a visit with The B's.

It wasn't much but, a little extra effort is sure to show how much you care.

Mr. B was very grateful...and he did Get Well Soon:]

[A bakers dozen fit perfectly.]

-Amanda

we link to these parties

New Years Eve...

2010-12-31T05:00:00.005-07:00

Our family is not celebrating a typical New Years for 2011. One of my daughters is getting married on Tuesday, so we'll be all together for the holiday! We're so scattered that it's pretty rare for us to all be in one place. This visit will be extra special, since it's the holidays and there are two new babies for everyone to meet. Can you tell that I'm a little excited?

New Years Day was never a big deal in my house when I was a child. We always took down our Christmas tree on the 1st, and once or twice we had a nice meal, when my mother didn't have to work. I was an adult with two children before I learned that some people have special foods that they eat every New Years Day.

When my children's Aunt Lizzy (yes, she of angel fame) was dating he who would become her hubby, he offered to cook dinner for New Years Eve. He loves to cook, and served his mission in Southern Italy. He prepared a meal that we still remember fondly to this day (spaghetti carbonara, stuffed peppers and a special cake), and thus our New Years tradition was born. Uncle B cooked for us every December 31 until we all began to migrate to the four corners of the earth.

For the last several years, New Years has been a very quiet evening for my hubby and me. We're not into crowds or partying, so I usually make a savory snack or two to eat with some Dr. Pepper (the only true and living soft drink. I love that stuff!), while we watch movies or play games until midnight.

I don't usually follow recipes, and seldom make any dish the same way twice, but here is my method for a zesty dip for two, using my Lil Dipper crockpot.

Place 1/2 block of cream cheese in the dipper, along with some vegetables.
I usually use some green onion, some spinach, and some garlic, and what ever else I have that might go well.

Marinated artichoke hearts, diced tomatoes or mushrooms often find their way into my dips.

Cover the dipper and heat for about an hour.
Once the cream cheese is soft and the vegetables have wilted a bit, add about 1/2 cup sour cream, and whatever cheese you like. I usually used about 1/4 cup grated mozzarella and 2 TBSP freshly grated parmesan.

Cover and cook another half to one hour, until cheese is melted. Serve with chips, crackers, bread dippers (I used pita bread) or raw vegetable dippers.

Bon appetit! And Happy New Year!

Lorie

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

2010-12-30T04:50:00.001-07:00

I try to eat sensibly while celebrating the new year. But sometimes too many treats scream my name. So this is a recipe I made the last 2 years. They are filling, so I eat a couple of them first and then the other treats have muffled voices. They can be made low-fat with turkey sausage, which is what I usually use. Choose low-fat or part-skim cheeses and that will help lessen your guilt (although ridding yourself of guilt altogether might be a great new years resolution). I have found I am not fond of fat free cream cheese in this recipe, however, low-fat works great!

18-20 medium mushrooms, wash and pull out stems(set aside)
1 lb. sausage
1 8oz. pkg. cream cheese
3 sliced green onions
handful spinach leaves, then chop
1-2 cups of grated mozzarella cheese OR Parmesan cheese.

Brown sausage and drain and rinse off excess fat and oil. Return to skillet, add onions and use mushroom stems (chop these a little first) and spinach, cook till spinach appears slightly wilted then add in cream cheese. Continue cooking until creamy and well mixed. Use a small cookie dough scoop to fill mushroom caps, then place in baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes at 400 degrees. Remove and sprinkle mozzarella OR Parmesan cheese on the tops, return to oven to melt cheese. Serve warm!
fyi: Regular sausage and cream cheese will yield approximately 150 calories per mushroom.

Happy New Year!!

~jan