tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6478019581908256642024-03-19T01:54:11.244-07:00Popcorn and PearlsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.comBlogger303125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-22145022375563945922013-11-26T14:14:00.002-08:002013-11-26T14:14:42.081-08:00Shop Mothology For Gorgeous Holiday Gifts #sponsored<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMsE_Hvtp4nGCtFTYUQPPoo9fh2VbBoslQSE0f6Fz_Mn7oTv4VXLYLR-15tN24sB1XWyBs723gXlZCnFKq_5algaYSxr6ATPJuMJGIT5TKoPJGT4O9XGRh5MWRZIIELfmnbjPvdN4EPenL/s1600/Screenshot+(182)Moth+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMsE_Hvtp4nGCtFTYUQPPoo9fh2VbBoslQSE0f6Fz_Mn7oTv4VXLYLR-15tN24sB1XWyBs723gXlZCnFKq_5algaYSxr6ATPJuMJGIT5TKoPJGT4O9XGRh5MWRZIIELfmnbjPvdN4EPenL/s320/Screenshot+(182)Moth+logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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When I want to shop for truly lovely gifts for family and friends, I shop at <a href="http://www.mothology.com/default.asp" rel="nofollow">Mothology</a>.<br />
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Mothology is an online shop that offers gorgeous gifts for your home, from one of a kind throws, to tableware, to decorative accessories.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNBzz5Ge6P7Psrs84qli3xVPCgKaKCYLCgKY7yeMYeIGMrmISL6-whoiZpXmf7WRpIBIf8kRw8BL5Nw5Hb4f1XHqLU-3Fwb4ECqizXmhsfgh1lxesulr-3YIiWduLOz72fYHst8eVzlyie/s1600/Screenshot+%2528174%2529Mothology.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNBzz5Ge6P7Psrs84qli3xVPCgKaKCYLCgKY7yeMYeIGMrmISL6-whoiZpXmf7WRpIBIf8kRw8BL5Nw5Hb4f1XHqLU-3Fwb4ECqizXmhsfgh1lxesulr-3YIiWduLOz72fYHst8eVzlyie/s640/Screenshot+%2528174%2529Mothology.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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When I am entertaining family and friends, I never seem to have enough platters or serving pieces. These <a href="http://www.mothology.com/Artisan_Ceramic_Platters_p/c-plat-s3c.htm" rel="nofollow">Artisan Ceramic Platters</a> from Vagabond Vintage have an off white glaze, and come in a set of three.<br />
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They are perfect for serving appetizers, breads, desserts, and much more. They look so pretty on a Thanksgiving or holiday table, but are also perfect for all year round.<br />
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I have quite a collection of white and cream colored dinnerware and serving pieces. I think that food looks so much better on a white background, and really stands out<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCSCtWhY_snanIqLjb3PyvjcHQhtt65LokEmVABGcUQWoX_ilE18gCt05wcLzypb98_cywUAs0awAhXMo3VK3sk_huNscod3OzRsTGL5NZyRERIMltRAhO8bINDq9i40ap4CJ-gRdmv-p2/s1600/Screenshot+(184)Moth+votives.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCSCtWhY_snanIqLjb3PyvjcHQhtt65LokEmVABGcUQWoX_ilE18gCt05wcLzypb98_cywUAs0awAhXMo3VK3sk_huNscod3OzRsTGL5NZyRERIMltRAhO8bINDq9i40ap4CJ-gRdmv-p2/s640/Screenshot+(184)Moth+votives.jpg" width="552" /></a></div>
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Candles and candleholders are one of my absolute favorite gifts to give and receive. Nothing makes a room prettier or cozier than candles that are burning.<br />
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These are <a href="http://www.mothology.com/Decorative_Accessories_p/g-merc-hurr3-c.htm" rel="nofollow">Antiqued Mercury Glass Hurricanes</a> by Vagabond Vintage. They comes in a set of three, small, medium and large.<br />
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If you are looking for a truly pretty gift for the candle lover on your gift list, I would absolutely say these are perfect.<br />
The glass looks so vintage and lovely with a candle shining from inside, and would be perfect for your holiday mantle or tabletop.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVzwe6oe0WVRhv3awqtBEt9RZLEH9tleCz_FS63tCpFhYtWKU7ud6VNTmmOAfVT7j2GGoCvtfcKKj8n0asGAk8dzCWgjhU9nOtSdjAYmZzmud9C2kBMeew4aLPrh8BNJYH0me74AKb7qU/s1600/Screenshot+(175)Moth+throws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVzwe6oe0WVRhv3awqtBEt9RZLEH9tleCz_FS63tCpFhYtWKU7ud6VNTmmOAfVT7j2GGoCvtfcKKj8n0asGAk8dzCWgjhU9nOtSdjAYmZzmud9C2kBMeew4aLPrh8BNJYH0me74AKb7qU/s640/Screenshot+(175)Moth+throws.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Mothology offers pretty linens, pillows, table runners, cotton napkins and more. There is a selection that fits every home.<br />
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These <a href="http://www.mothology.com/Linens_p/vinfab-twinc.htm" rel="nofollow">Reversible Coverletts</a> are made from cotton, all one of a kind, and available in different colors and patterns.<br />
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They can keep you toasty warm, or look pretty displayed over a chair or sofa. They are also wonderful for using as a bedcover.<br />
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Mothology offers gifts to choose from that are under $25, and would make great holiday hostess gifts or stocking stuffers.<br />
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There is also a gift code exclusively available for Popcorn and Pearls readers. It will give you a 10% discount off your entire order. Just use promo code <em>PEARLS10.</em><br />
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There are so many pretty things to choose from at Mothology, and I have some of them on my Christmas list.<br />
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If you are looking for unique and lovely gifts for your friends and family this holiday season, I recommend you shop at Mothology.<br />
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<strong>*</strong><em>I received items from this company and all opinions are my own.</em><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-86009736998334901002013-11-21T22:02:00.003-08:002013-11-22T11:33:47.782-08:00Gingerbread M&Ms Christmas Bingo Fun #HolidayMM #shop #cbias<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3G2cxxCXWcelD-AXJXo9-i07uXLoJvm_TWp9WCo4JZnwzFhNjiKruDOM7j6lX8hKRg_V6GcGb009vDywdUF9qzILUS0NJDpfDuklxTjoohuHDEE7VSxOnpN0pcZYotbkz-YRpDFbSs-E/s1600/%23cbias+%23shop+disclosure.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="78" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3G2cxxCXWcelD-AXJXo9-i07uXLoJvm_TWp9WCo4JZnwzFhNjiKruDOM7j6lX8hKRg_V6GcGb009vDywdUF9qzILUS0NJDpfDuklxTjoohuHDEE7VSxOnpN0pcZYotbkz-YRpDFbSs-E/s640/%23cbias+%23shop+disclosure.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbCQdJh1OqPRF1HisjOP7aX5_z_HHEUMcGiep8ql8HYvy39PEaLXPGkNAIhYiGicXXuPug5j-mRfJd5JZh_SFIt3J0vDBj1mPqtchTmIrUBwADI_MR5p77E9KiXvYqQwHziMfzEKu8cCQ/s1600/%23HolidayMM++%23shop+(2)+Gingerbread+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbCQdJh1OqPRF1HisjOP7aX5_z_HHEUMcGiep8ql8HYvy39PEaLXPGkNAIhYiGicXXuPug5j-mRfJd5JZh_SFIt3J0vDBj1mPqtchTmIrUBwADI_MR5p77E9KiXvYqQwHziMfzEKu8cCQ/s640/%23HolidayMM++%23shop+(2)+Gingerbread+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I always know the holidays are coming soon when I start thinking about gingerbread and my favorite gingerbread recipe. My kids have always loved gingerbread, and I made it for them at Christmas all the time when they were little.<br />
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I'm a grandmother to four little ones now, and so of course I make them gingerbread, too. We love the flavor, and it's one of our very favorite desserts and snacks.<br />
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We are also big M&M lovers, and when I found out that M&Ms came in new Gingerbread flavor, you know I had to rush out and buy some.<br />
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They are available exclusively at Walmart, so I went and picked up a few bags, along with some supplies that I needed to help one of my grandsons make a <a href="http://marscandysocial.com/holidaymm/" rel="nofollow">fun crafts</a> project<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtUbG6ApYJzVlSNgORsgNPw7UEq38L9oHVAX7Al6WCtBK_oGyM1l6DGk-KxG5gSgBDxLxTRF6jQ4x1xK_paCvixx5I3ItffBwvAP4zs_zhUeb5x4AKVRj3igCoaHIS8P40r4hTdJCFPqA/s1600/%23HolidayMM++%23shop+(5)+Gingerbread+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtUbG6ApYJzVlSNgORsgNPw7UEq38L9oHVAX7Al6WCtBK_oGyM1l6DGk-KxG5gSgBDxLxTRF6jQ4x1xK_paCvixx5I3ItffBwvAP4zs_zhUeb5x4AKVRj3igCoaHIS8P40r4hTdJCFPqA/s640/%23HolidayMM++%23shop+(5)+Gingerbread+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Liam wants to give his preschool buddies a little gift for the holidays. We wanted the gift to be homemade, and easy enough to make that he could help make it. And hopefully, candy would be involved!!<br />
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I put on my thinking cap and came up with the idea of Christmas Bingo. Bingo is an easy and fun game for kids of all ages to play, and we would use the new Gingerbread M&Ms as the bingo space markers.<br />
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We put the M&Ms in a cute Gingerbread decorated bag, with enough for eating and playing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYl32HMXg0_Ua_RsR9SaD3sF5Y8-eTwGqtGRG3LD3HW1CwOn5IodQAFFc8Tc-sXTCPmluyRSHn1YQL82wTwEhH-0bW50khAzxt_72QeSHhOvjdfu1e4zHi5WfDrQaVuZNWlC89rsYuJVnn/s1600/%23HolidayMM++%23shop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYl32HMXg0_Ua_RsR9SaD3sF5Y8-eTwGqtGRG3LD3HW1CwOn5IodQAFFc8Tc-sXTCPmluyRSHn1YQL82wTwEhH-0bW50khAzxt_72QeSHhOvjdfu1e4zHi5WfDrQaVuZNWlC89rsYuJVnn/s640/%23HolidayMM++%23shop.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I Googled free Christmas Bingo images and printed them out on white paper. I thought these were sweet, and of course it had to have a Gingerbread Boy on it.<br />
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Then I cut out rectangles from red poster board that were a little larger than the Bingo Cards. I didn't measure anything, so nothing is perfectly even, and that is part of the charm of receiving a home made gift from a preschooler.<br />
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Liam and I glued the Bingo papers on to the poster board pieces, and then we tried the game out. He loved it.<br />
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Who doesn't love a game when there's candy involved?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyK3c05syerchIkGRBdV1hvgmbg6oohRy1WbGNMjZFPK4ZTTjTwE1DwkGdYmICCVvIicXYJ9Or7fxbeRnKA7rMzTxnE22I4IwvNNmiVH6G3Xm8ZvxIadjvR0yik-bEogokwCc998429UOf/s1600/%23HolidayMM++%23shop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyK3c05syerchIkGRBdV1hvgmbg6oohRy1WbGNMjZFPK4ZTTjTwE1DwkGdYmICCVvIicXYJ9Or7fxbeRnKA7rMzTxnE22I4IwvNNmiVH6G3Xm8ZvxIadjvR0yik-bEogokwCc998429UOf/s640/%23HolidayMM++%23shop.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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While we were making the games, Liam had to sample those yummy Gingerbread M&Ms. He had to sample lots of them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwaKns6z2s8y5vic3OxGjL4Hds-PYm1SbC5VLKtPnCAURMapVGQ9xAXmTimq8hQ_BRXEWVWhd9vTn5Q50qB7MimCPq1Gkwx734eOSO57z5xZtCw2pqYP49BzrlMh9N3MUjXfUP6WqGPCQ/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage+Gingerbread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwaKns6z2s8y5vic3OxGjL4Hds-PYm1SbC5VLKtPnCAURMapVGQ9xAXmTimq8hQ_BRXEWVWhd9vTn5Q50qB7MimCPq1Gkwx734eOSO57z5xZtCw2pqYP49BzrlMh9N3MUjXfUP6WqGPCQ/s640/PicMonkey+Collage+Gingerbread.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This Christmas Bingo game was super easy to make. I already had most of the supplies at home. When I was at Walmart, I picked up the Gingerbread M&Ms, and the cute Gingerbread decorated bags.<br />
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We put some M&Ms in a bag, and then tied it with a red ribbon. We used cellophane to wrap up the Bingo cards and Bingo game cards.<br />
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Super easy and super cute. I love projects for preschoolers that come together quickly, and this one did.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUR16o89hEU2T86MvrD0BCSFgKqSxUyzU3GE7AOjwOxFmHJH4vz1dcN2IzPkXJK6T_S8qUz7XnoXWk0Q6KSzkE2cfmEjbhQdCiPgvdlbJmi9moWy2BPZF5LPjq9Hum7k_MtNHVEm6szuLi/s1600/%23HolidayMM++%23shop+(4)Gingerbread+Last+Pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUR16o89hEU2T86MvrD0BCSFgKqSxUyzU3GE7AOjwOxFmHJH4vz1dcN2IzPkXJK6T_S8qUz7XnoXWk0Q6KSzkE2cfmEjbhQdCiPgvdlbJmi9moWy2BPZF5LPjq9Hum7k_MtNHVEm6szuLi/s640/%23HolidayMM++%23shop+(4)Gingerbread+Last+Pic.jpg" width="572" /></a></div>
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Liam loves the Christmas Bingo game gifts that he'll be giving to his preschool friends during the holidays.<br />
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You can buy these yummy Gingerbread M&Ms at Walmart for a limited time, and let them be the inspiration for your own great holiday decorating ideas.<br />
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They are perfect for your favorite cookie recipe, Gingerbread house, fun crafts, and much more.<br />
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Here's a great coupon to save $1.00 off of a bag of Gingerbread flavored M&Ms, 9.9oz, or larger.<br />
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<a href="http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.coupons.com%2Fcouponweb%2FOffers.aspx%3Fpid%3D13306%26zid%3Diq37%26nid%3D10%26bid%3Dalk0911220925ae8aa75b512014%26cid%3D18094019&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEsVkCrfm_1cADazTuJ2l5LUVJi0w" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRE0OPzTO6ScMzNb-TH8gCNwzATJjfqa4ux5n3oxt1IdcTD6v0XmIk6iUZ0LoiWLNH3-uWqtw8tKc87YCuLVCT-LLhoxRqvH31zNIB9q9RFtKU0QE0weWlT1sO_pQSGsZmzT_IQZSr3c/s320/Gingerbread+coupon+V4+%23shop.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
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If you need some festive holiday decorating ideas check out these fun <a href="http://marscandysocial.com/holidaymm/" rel="nofollow">Gingerbread M&M's crafts</a>. If you have some creative ideas of your own, participate in the Gingerbread M&M Instagram contest to win a great prize!<br />
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<a href="http://www.marscandysocial.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifHNQ-vtqt_U09PO6ZC0obm8V8MxC-EhK2KqafbPRe_yD2blf8vJBSW6D4v3zv78Ft4SNt4x6OdDCACOtWNVs0kVwSLjj9tIhpzzb3SobSBVgTIXivCUdAmjlHwuHHXey4RUw8n2tcG-s/s1600/Gingerbread_Small-03+%2523shop.jpg" /></a></div>
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HOW TO PARTICIPATE: Upload an original image to Instagram with inspirational ideas and creations using Gingerbread M&M's to decorate and craft during the holidays, caption that image with the hashtag #HolidayMM, and share on Twitter (an “Entry”)<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-66998511425338527052013-11-05T22:20:00.001-08:002013-11-05T22:20:03.136-08:00Save Money On Books With Campus Book Rentals #sponsoredWe all know how expensive it is to be attending college nowadays. With so many high costs to worry about, it's great to find a way to save money any way we can.<br />
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<a href="http://www.campusbookrentals.com/" rel="nofollow">Campus Book Rentals</a> lets you rent the books you need instead of spending a small fortune to buy them. Their program is simple and easy to use, and a great money saver for yourself or the college student in your life.<br />
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My son, and son-in-law have both used Campus Book Rentals, and have been very happy with their service.<br />
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<img alt="" height="91" id="header-logo" src="http://www.campusbookrentals.com/content/images2/header/logo.png" style="float: left;" title="Campus Book Rentals - your textbook alternative" width="640" /><br />
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Here are just some of the great perks you get when you use Campus Book Rentals:<br />
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-save 40-90% off of bookstore prices<br /> -free shipping both ways<br /> -can highlight in the textbooks<br /> -flexible renting periods<br />
-they donate to Operation Smile with each text book rented<br />
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Campus Book Rentals also has a fantastic new program called <a href="http://www.rentback.com/" rel="nofollow">RentBack</a>.<br />
RentBack is a new initiative that allows students to rent the textbooks they own to other students... which is great because it makes them 2-4x more money compared to what they'd make through buy back options.<br />
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Choosing to use Campus Book Rentals is a smart and easy way to manage the high price of buying college text books.<br />
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Check out their website to start saving money on all those expensive college textbooks today.<br />
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<em>*This is a sponsored post, all opinions are my own.</em><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-61995988547065622512013-11-05T11:33:00.000-08:002013-11-05T11:33:27.544-08:00Keeping Our Kitty Happy And Healthy With Sheba Cat Food #ShebaCat #shop #cbias<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We have had our cat Spazzy for almost 15 years now. When you have an animal this length of time, they absolutely become members of the family. So of course you want to take the best care of them possible. For us, that means choosing a premium cat food like <a href="http://www.sheba.com/Home" rel="nofollow">Sheba</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGWoii6Y5IJA2dQ_pwua7eodcIhWIaCMcbMn-qBEkt7PBPKse98BDk4ISNHqgcY_6Ji4y4UFvcQpHh6iCJqAmaHrMJFoniAyafnBSWSTjcyrW5iHmtvS0Ted-zt9sBi5EtbPSneCOQ8N_/s1600/%23ShebaCat+%23shop+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGWoii6Y5IJA2dQ_pwua7eodcIhWIaCMcbMn-qBEkt7PBPKse98BDk4ISNHqgcY_6Ji4y4UFvcQpHh6iCJqAmaHrMJFoniAyafnBSWSTjcyrW5iHmtvS0Ted-zt9sBi5EtbPSneCOQ8N_/s640/%23ShebaCat+%23shop+(2).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We have been a bit concerned about Spazzy because she hasn't been eating much lately. The vet assured us she was in good health for her age, and we should offer her a few different kinds of food because maybe she was simply bored with the same brand of cat food she has been eating for years.<br />
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We want to keep our sweet kitty happy and healthy for as many years as possible, so buying Sheba cat food for her is a smart choice. <br />
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I took a trip to Walmart to buy Sheba, and was happy to find it at such a great low price. I love a bargain, and using a coupon makes it even better!<br />
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Sheba offers a coupon for when you buy 6 cans, you get 1 free, which you can find right <a href="http://www.sheba.com/Home" rel="nofollow">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HkXV3upw6LblBbBnG-iq4GOQsuiou1PYAkKWb-p6grl1cIVafcdAixEzM-I_ZAz1QKPOHExiZPCApi9dlnIX_J5tNX7HW1C-91lQ4WB7p4TsvR4h8zdMWziDAYahsmMBELC-pmQ0YzU-/s1600/%23ShebaCat+%23shop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HkXV3upw6LblBbBnG-iq4GOQsuiou1PYAkKWb-p6grl1cIVafcdAixEzM-I_ZAz1QKPOHExiZPCApi9dlnIX_J5tNX7HW1C-91lQ4WB7p4TsvR4h8zdMWziDAYahsmMBELC-pmQ0YzU-/s640/%23ShebaCat+%23shop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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While I was at Walmart to pick up food for Spazzy, I bought her this orange feather toy. She wasn't very interested in it.<br />
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I remember the little kitten that she was, running everywhere, chasing balls and toys, and generally just full of mischief.<br />
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Our vet told us that it was natural for her to slow down at her age, but we should try to keep her as active as possible. <br />
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He also said that feeding her a high quality diet, regular vet visits, and plenty of love and affection were the best tips he had to give us to keep Spazzy healthy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtbF5H54QN45BLmAQCw1JWCx1qwPAJJqtxm2Xz-RQ3a0iEX31elLIYLzlWQUwLaSrydVjPl9tIYSAa0M6ufj9PLRJRmSVdjfN0lmzsX173TRDrDMAxHufNI0dwQe65DqJtirWbFgfp_VY/s1600/%23ShebaCat+%23shop+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtbF5H54QN45BLmAQCw1JWCx1qwPAJJqtxm2Xz-RQ3a0iEX31elLIYLzlWQUwLaSrydVjPl9tIYSAa0M6ufj9PLRJRmSVdjfN0lmzsX173TRDrDMAxHufNI0dwQe65DqJtirWbFgfp_VY/s640/%23ShebaCat+%23shop+(2).jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Sheba offers many varieties of cat food to choose from. We bought Spazzy Chicken and Liver Entrée, Beef Entrée, Mixed Grill Entrée, Turkey Entrée, and Salmon and Chicken Entrée.<br />
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With so many choices, I was hoping she would start eating again. At first she only sniffed and walked away. But when I came back a few hours later, she has eaten half of her food.<br />
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By day three, she was back to her regular eating schedule, and loves her Sheba cat food!!!<br />
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It's such a relief to have her eating regularly, and I'm so grateful to see a little bit of her spunky self back again. We will definitely keep on feeding Spazzy her Sheba cat food, and next time I go Walmart, I will pick her up some of Sheba's other flavors.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig1wkjbT5RI2Ja2yVodvFrMPad2Wzq766sBxBYCHfCTCM3FSeIGZ1IuV1gzpKxuwy20smsdoMODFXbYEo8uKZZmmQcmCIk9yxx6Z3_fJ0oU8Rsu7sb7N7_JxckguHXeHZOx_7XDeEl8Fz7/s1600/%23ShebaCat+%23shop+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig1wkjbT5RI2Ja2yVodvFrMPad2Wzq766sBxBYCHfCTCM3FSeIGZ1IuV1gzpKxuwy20smsdoMODFXbYEo8uKZZmmQcmCIk9yxx6Z3_fJ0oU8Rsu7sb7N7_JxckguHXeHZOx_7XDeEl8Fz7/s640/%23ShebaCat+%23shop+(3).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Go to the <a href="http://www.sheba.com/Home" rel="nofollow">Sheba </a>cat food website to learn more about their products.You will find product reviews, where to buy Sheba, how Sheba is responsibly sourced, special offers and more.<br />
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You can also connect with Sheba on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ShebaBrand" rel="nofollow">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/ShebaBrand" rel="nofollow">Twitter</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-19197021061064577092013-10-30T23:03:00.000-07:002013-10-31T08:09:33.805-07:00Celebrate National Pizza Month With Classico and Giveaway #sponsored<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2DSFwY_nVMX28B5MDtC6FkIqKroB7Xn13Klm9lkF4QyuCZHLfH4dSuerIn9i93Xq0jiHUZRIX-71mVpAO4CzaWuZNZZYOwWGUstgMzjC6pgz7NlpgPFuQDGoeP6D9AqkqFplWxpSBU3dM/s1600/IMG_9554+Classico.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2DSFwY_nVMX28B5MDtC6FkIqKroB7Xn13Klm9lkF4QyuCZHLfH4dSuerIn9i93Xq0jiHUZRIX-71mVpAO4CzaWuZNZZYOwWGUstgMzjC6pgz7NlpgPFuQDGoeP6D9AqkqFplWxpSBU3dM/s640/IMG_9554+Classico.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It doesn't have to be National Pizza Month to enjoy eating and making your own delicious pizzas.<br />
With Classico pizza sauces, it's super easy to put together the ingredients and enjoy fresh from the oven pizza at home.<br />
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Classico sauces come in Traditional Pizza Sauce, White Pizza Sauce, and Fire Roasted Pizza Sauce flavors. All three are delicious, and you can count on Classico to use the finest ingredients to give their sauces a delicious, full-bodied flavors.<br />
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My family and I recently enjoyed a family pizza night, and I made a delicious pizza with a homemade crust, and using Classico Traditional Pizza Sauce.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Z68Se4VJDfxKyHSyRFnIQwNL49PtceA9GciH2wwtJpy-vZfRfQTbkUh6vqRurVh0VyNHMf9ypbRCsOIEg4nALa-4LWUubdQnhaWawxv7AOZRJYt-j00ydyJ41yMzkozzatBFgJZoQbal/s1600/classico+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Z68Se4VJDfxKyHSyRFnIQwNL49PtceA9GciH2wwtJpy-vZfRfQTbkUh6vqRurVh0VyNHMf9ypbRCsOIEg4nALa-4LWUubdQnhaWawxv7AOZRJYt-j00ydyJ41yMzkozzatBFgJZoQbal/s640/classico+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love making my own pizza crust from scratch, but you can save time by using a prepared crust from the store.<br />
Just oil a pizza pan with olive oil so that the crust doesn't sick to it, then spread the crust generously with the pizza sauce of your choice. Put on the toppings of your choice, and then top with a generous amount of Mozzarella cheese.<br />
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Homemade pizza is super easy , and Classico sauces really are a great start to a delicious pizza.<br />
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My grandchildren's favorite pizza is pepperoni with black olives, topped with lots of Mozzarella I like this too, but I spice it up a bit by adding finely chopped red onion.<br />
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Yum, nothing like hot, homemade pizza, right from the oven!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3y6R6LogoTyaVBkviJ0Tf3434a3eNEocLtXzmxFuCOdwFOFPeXUBscPaF77KQkjFqJAE6VBLBMHA-0mPmIEZy0Jj9_VJL7lc1McsKzG9zXLU29Ya3YD4A_ImvQouQky_7V0Pb66GcHDMO/s1600/IMG_9583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3y6R6LogoTyaVBkviJ0Tf3434a3eNEocLtXzmxFuCOdwFOFPeXUBscPaF77KQkjFqJAE6VBLBMHA-0mPmIEZy0Jj9_VJL7lc1McsKzG9zXLU29Ya3YD4A_ImvQouQky_7V0Pb66GcHDMO/s640/IMG_9583.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<em>*In the spirit of full disclosure, I've partnered with Classico and received product, coupons, premium items, and reader giveaway coupons, as part of my participation. However, no payment was given, or expected for posting about the program, and all opinions expressed here are my own.</em><br />
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In honor of National Pizza Month, Classico Pizza is giving away a coupon for a jar of free pizza sauce to three readers.<br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f2a4da19/" id="rc-f2a4da19" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
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*Limited to US residents 18 years old and above. Giveaway starts Oct 30 2013 and ends on Nov 14 2013 at 12:01 am EST. Winner will be emailed and has 72 hours to respond before another winner is selected. I was not paid for this giveaway or post. The opinions on this item are 100% mine and may vary from others. The sponsor is responsible for providing the prize. I was sent products to review for my post.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-19369579790103151382013-10-29T13:28:00.002-07:002013-10-29T13:28:40.658-07:00Pumpkin Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5AqKb1Y3bK-t_Go7pm5_Rp_DnNN62JSc6EkJDhZYd54z1hIYfA2rz7hMAOAgVjthyFsxzAfkTZsIud8thxf1agr-58lzqkq5n-qhnrpMXL08rm2I-rKOAkcKvcloQD4Zu5sOOyKqDMbM/s1600/IMG_8511+fall+cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5AqKb1Y3bK-t_Go7pm5_Rp_DnNN62JSc6EkJDhZYd54z1hIYfA2rz7hMAOAgVjthyFsxzAfkTZsIud8thxf1agr-58lzqkq5n-qhnrpMXL08rm2I-rKOAkcKvcloQD4Zu5sOOyKqDMbM/s640/IMG_8511+fall+cupcakes.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Now that we are just about done with October, we are in peak pumpkin love at my house.<br />
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I love the smell of pumpkin treats baking in the oven. These cupcakes are so yummy, and the cream cheese frosting is amazing.<br />
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I made these and posted them on my other blog, Frugal Family Tree, and you can hop over there for the complete <a href="http://www.frugalfamilytree.com/2013/10/pumpkin-cupcakes-with-cream-cheese.html" rel="nofollow">recipe</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-76723920506460706602013-10-27T23:47:00.000-07:002013-10-27T23:47:43.998-07:00Enjoying Bigelow Tea and Their Exciting New Look #AmericasTea #cbias #shop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid7YwHFnvzlv-KPeUAzN3mcd3FO5StV-ViUdrihRsst8jap1YPPJd19GUIvMvXD9ec5zo79-MZHlLO4qUh-vm08FEPK2I7qLv4gtxc5zqMYYDzj_3u1MYw2pc-ekGAH8gYgkRoVvdQQX0/s1600/%23cbias+%23shop+disclosure.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="78" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid7YwHFnvzlv-KPeUAzN3mcd3FO5StV-ViUdrihRsst8jap1YPPJd19GUIvMvXD9ec5zo79-MZHlLO4qUh-vm08FEPK2I7qLv4gtxc5zqMYYDzj_3u1MYw2pc-ekGAH8gYgkRoVvdQQX0/s640/%23cbias+%23shop+disclosure.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4Ulo_dsEAFWZVGpnhyphenhyphene_vn3mYK4o8lMY8IuaW9Mp6q81u5JxrpzDq5r0i9th3lH5VsZVrCCqO5e_Nv9qx451rWwN1875OVhqiyiVsfBcy1xLT0oWDWW2_pfRklV-cuMHyCT8rh8wZMjN/s1600/%23AmericasTea++%23shop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4Ulo_dsEAFWZVGpnhyphenhyphene_vn3mYK4o8lMY8IuaW9Mp6q81u5JxrpzDq5r0i9th3lH5VsZVrCCqO5e_Nv9qx451rWwN1875OVhqiyiVsfBcy1xLT0oWDWW2_pfRklV-cuMHyCT8rh8wZMjN/s640/%23AmericasTea++%23shop.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bigelow's great new look.</td></tr>
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When I like something, I tend to <em>really</em> like it, and so I don't want what I like to change. Are you like that too?<br />
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I recently found out that <a href="https://www.bigelowtea.com/" rel="nofollow">Bigelow Tea</a> was changing their packaging, and since Bigelow is one of my very favorite brands of tea, I wondered what kinds of changes they had in mind.<br />
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Bigelow Tea is a family owned company that has been in business for almost 70 years. I've enjoyed drinking their herbal tea, green tea, and other flavors almost every day for many years now. I'm a passionate tea drinker, and I love how Bigelow offers so many varieties and flavors to choose from.<br />
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So off I went to <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/photos/105835612968885829452/albums/5938525429845194001" rel="nofollow">Walmart</a> to stock up on Bigelow Tea for these chilly days we are having, and to check out their new packaging.<br />
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I have to say that I love the new look, it's streamlined, and cleaner, and simpler. Each box also lets you know all about the particular kind of tea you are drinking, why the tea comes in a special foil pouch, and much more. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKUk-AXa9B_8kPxZn3c39C0M3NYa_cLcyEFImxcFuSrXqQ9B7sntlGAmghMCkzAkdr5spVx6WQyRsk3qv8eVfEK-1EYVIWJmCIzk8GAIpcGJL1rUJ5gtVaRE1itWlTmtXFd4rnr3wuEKH/s1600/%23AmericasTea++%23shop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKUk-AXa9B_8kPxZn3c39C0M3NYa_cLcyEFImxcFuSrXqQ9B7sntlGAmghMCkzAkdr5spVx6WQyRsk3qv8eVfEK-1EYVIWJmCIzk8GAIpcGJL1rUJ5gtVaRE1itWlTmtXFd4rnr3wuEKH/s640/%23AmericasTea++%23shop.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I came home with lots of boxes of tea, including one of my favorites, Constant Comment, a very flavorful black tea. I'm also trying something new, Lemon Ginger, an herbal tea that contains probiotics which supports healthy digestion.<br />
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While I was at Walmart, I ran into an old friend who is going through a tough time. She invited me over for a chat, and I knew right away that I would bring her a basket filled with Bigelow Tea and treats to cheer her up. Who wouldn't love a tea basket filled with Bigelow's lovely new packaging and delicious varieties of tea? And my friend is a tea lover just like me, so this would be a welcome surprise for her.<br />
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Bigelow Tea's new packaging includes information on the back of the box on how to brew the perfect cup of tea, and how much caffeine (if any) is in each variety of tea.<br />
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On the top of each box is one of nine stories about the company's heritage, values, and a lot of fun facts about Bigelow Tea. I especially loved the story about how plucky and hard working Ruth Bigelow was, and how determined she was to make the company a success.<br />
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I like supporting family businesses, and knowing more about the Bigelow family and how they started their company is interesting to me. This is a great touch that lets me connect with the company on a personal level.<br />
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This year I had promised myself that I would be more health conscious and aware of the foods and drinks I consume. I've actually been pretty good at replacing a healthy cup of tea for something that might be loaded with sugar or lots of calories.<br />
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This Lemon Ginger tea is delicious, and I am a big probiotics fan, so I'm happy to be getting some in my tea. Green tea is also one of my favorites, and it is so healthy for you, too.<br />
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One of the things I love about Bigelow Tea is that they offer so many choices to their customers. I can find herbal tea, decaffeinated tea, black tea, and green tea in an amazingly large number of flavors. <br />
I love being able to offer family and friends a large choice of teas to drink, and it really makes the cup of tea personal to the tea drinker.<br />
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For me, Bigelow Tea sets itself apart from other brands because of it's quality, wide selection, and dedication to bringing the very best tea available into our homes and kitchens.<br />
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Here in Washington State, we are famous for our large amount of rain, and we've already had a number of wet and rainy days so far this fall.<br />
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Having a hot cup of tea is one of my favorite ways to chase away the gloom. Sharing tea with my family and friends is such a good way to keep our connections strong.<br />
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My mother used to say that things always look a little better after a cup of tea, and I think she was right. She loved Earl Grey tea in the mornings, and often had her own friends over to share a cup.<br />
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I was happy to put together this basket of Bigelow Tea for my friend, and take it to her. I also included some chocolate, a new tea mug, and some freshly baked cookies.<br />
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Sometimes I forget about how important friends really are, and Bigelow Tea inspired me to show how much I care about the people in my life.<br />
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If you are a tea lover, or know tea lovers, be sure to go check out the all new Bigelow Tea packaging.<br />
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You'll still find all your favorite varieties and flavors, but in their lovely new boxes.<br />
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Bigelow Tea has a wonderful <a href="http://www.bigelowteablog.com/" rel="nofollow">website</a> that I frequently go to for recipes, information, and inspiration. Right now there is a great recipe for Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread, using Bigelow Pumpkin Spice tea.<br />
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You can also connect with Bigelow Tea on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bigelowtea" rel="nofollow">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/bigelowtea" rel="nofollow">Twitter</a>.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-30861908679974017282013-10-25T08:46:00.000-07:002013-10-25T08:46:08.912-07:00Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm a real brownie lover, and have started making them from scratch, which is really easier than you might think.<br />
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But then I ran across a recipe that was for cream cheese brownies, using a mix, so I gave this recipe a try. Wow, these are super delicious!!<br />
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I'm putting them on my list of go-to recipes for the future. While, my family gobbled them up here at home, they would be perfect for an up-coming holiday office party, or similar event.<br />
Just make sure you use a high quality mix. I used Ghirardelli Brownie Mix.<br />
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<strong>Recipe for Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies</strong><br />
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<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
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Filling:<br />
4 oz. cream cheese, softened <br />
1 egg<br />
3 tablespoons sugar<br />
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
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Brownies:<br />
1 regular size box brownie mix<br />
water, vegetable oil, and eggs called for in brownie mix<br />
1/3 cup mini chocolate chips<br />
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<strong>Directions:</strong><br />
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Heat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
Grease bottom only of 9-inch square pan with vegetable oil or cooking spray.<br />
In a small bowl, beat filling ingredients with electric mixer on low speed until smooth. Set aside.<br />
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Make brownie batter as directed on brownie box. Spread 3/4 of brownie batter in pan. Spoon filling by tablespoon evenly over brownie batter. Spoon remaining brownie batter over filling,<br />
Cut through mixture with knife several times for marbled design. Sprinkle with chocolate chips.<br />
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Bake 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out almost clean. Cool completely before cutting, about 2 hours. Store covered in refrigerator.<br />
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Makes approximately 12 brownies, depending on size of slices.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-79521281428585547502013-10-18T08:06:00.002-07:002013-10-18T08:06:58.371-07:00Donuts, and More Donuts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is no secret that my family and I love sweets. The fall seems to bring out something in me that wants to bake delicious desserts and treats all the time.<br />
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Donuts are one of my favorite things to make because they are delicious any time of day. In fact, a cup of tea and a freshly baked donut is one of the best afternoon pick-me-ups I can think of.<br />
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I shared this recipe for <a href="http://www.frugalfamilytree.com/2013/10/the-barefoot-contessas-recipe-for.html" rel="nofollow">Cinnamon Sugar Donuts</a> over on my other blog, Frugal Family Tree. If you love donuts, buy yourself a donut pan because making them with a pan is super easy. <br />
And so worth it, they are delicious.<br />
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I made <a href="http://www.popcornandpearls.com/2013/09/recipe-for-homemade-chocolate-donuts.html" rel="nofollow">Chocolate Donuts With Orange Glaze</a> awhile back, too. The chocolate flavor in these donuts really stands out in this recipe, and it's a must for chocolate lovers.<br />
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Have a fabulous Friday everyone :)<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-47184551175022940972013-10-07T22:40:00.000-07:002013-10-07T22:40:41.227-07:00Quick Family Meals, Sweet and Sour Rice Bowls #kraftrecipemakers #shop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love being a part of my daughter's very busy household. She is a super active mom of three, a great wife to her husband, and now has a part-time job. So you can imagine that we are always on the look-out for easy meals that are quick, delicious, and help solve the nightly question of what to cook for dinner.<br />
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I recently picked up a package of Kraft Recipe Makers, the Sweet and Sour Chicken flavor.<br />
Kraft Recipe Makers are yummy <a href="http://www.getyourcheftogether.com/" rel="nofollow">meal kits</a> that contain two sauces with a recipe, and you add your own fresh ingredients. Each meal starter will help you make a quick and delicious dinner that is sure to please your family.<br />
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I decided to make Sweet and Sour Rice Bowls with chicken meatballs. We actually eat a lot of rice, and are always looking for ways to put more veggies into our meals. Bell peppers, especially red ones, are a favorite to cook and eat.<br />
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This Recipe Maker comes with a Sesame Ginger simmer sauce, and a Sweet and Sour Pineapple finishing sauce.<br />
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I'm really hoping my son-in-law likes this dinner. He loves rice bowls, but is used to eating them at restaurants or take out places.<br />
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I'm making a big batch of chicken meatballs, some to use now, and some to freeze for later. You can make your own, but it's much quicker to use the already cooked and frozen ones from the grocery store. Just pop them in the microwave to heat them. This is a great time-saver when you are in a hurry.<br />
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I chopped up the two bell peppers and red onion and put them in a large frying pan. Then I added the Sesame Ginger simmer sauce and cooked them until they were crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.<br />
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Then it was time to add the meatballs, can of pineapple chunks, and the Sweet and Sour Pineapple finishing sauce.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPLq1RdMoiJl6iitAjcWV1f-gB5LLNCIZqE1BMA2hEFtcSyhwmu_PCsrSBbRXHz8Csm8DMP0gyfui0o7q1I6VrbrJIpaXpyZqMzNqx9uVRlV83A9v8XjEQhhI0zNhF3Cl2bho74jCEmiV/s1600/%23kraftrecipemakers+%23shop+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPLq1RdMoiJl6iitAjcWV1f-gB5LLNCIZqE1BMA2hEFtcSyhwmu_PCsrSBbRXHz8Csm8DMP0gyfui0o7q1I6VrbrJIpaXpyZqMzNqx9uVRlV83A9v8XjEQhhI0zNhF3Cl2bho74jCEmiV/s640/%23kraftrecipemakers+%23shop+(5).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Cook for about 3 minutes more, or until heated through. Stir everything all together and serve over hot rice. The sauces smelled so good, and I just had to taste a meatball with all that yummy sauce!!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NJnzuGYbgolIB_67zial2hfx7-WSzGfPvWJzFZRdve1fWo6SONuZgCs8fwlj4yuSswVQneUV0cGDTF41I4P6rjSTeQCXweM_lIp0rvp5RDrYWiAcFVyhU7Z04tzmxFNo37Lgoqet-ySu/s1600/%23kraftrecipemakers+%23shop+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NJnzuGYbgolIB_67zial2hfx7-WSzGfPvWJzFZRdve1fWo6SONuZgCs8fwlj4yuSswVQneUV0cGDTF41I4P6rjSTeQCXweM_lIp0rvp5RDrYWiAcFVyhU7Z04tzmxFNo37Lgoqet-ySu/s640/%23kraftrecipemakers+%23shop+(6).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I like making rice in the rice cooker because it's so easy. Just make rice your favorite way before you start your other meal preparations.<br />
<br />
Kraft Recipe Makers really make cooking your meal fast, so make sure you have your rice ready.<br />
<br />
I love family meals that appeal to all of us, including my grandchildren. With everyone so busy, it's important that we all sit down together for dinner each night. When I cook, I don't always have the time to cook from scratch, so I welcome short-cuts in the kitchen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnlCClLjlKqRn6skr9mFm61vfaK9JR25z_s1oTUZt4m4ogw-qWWYXqYsR1fA0Iu4e5kh5AJYU7eGvgvnlu2kVfI8f_WkwasoPXuaQr_k1jCOLWbHDADnTHl91CzZouQvlWoUOjobw92aL/s1600/%23kraftrecipemakers+%23shop+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnlCClLjlKqRn6skr9mFm61vfaK9JR25z_s1oTUZt4m4ogw-qWWYXqYsR1fA0Iu4e5kh5AJYU7eGvgvnlu2kVfI8f_WkwasoPXuaQr_k1jCOLWbHDADnTHl91CzZouQvlWoUOjobw92aL/s640/%23kraftrecipemakers+%23shop+(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My Sweet and Sour Rice Bowls were a hit. The kids liked them and my son-in-law asked if I could make some for him to take to work, where he can heat them up. Yay!!<br />
<br />
I'm always happy to find ways to make cooking easier, but still lets us enjoy great tasting meals. I can't wait to try the other flavors of <a href="http://www.getyourcheftogether.com/" rel="nofollow">Kraft Recipe Makers</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Recipe for Sweet and Sour Rice Bowls with Chicken Meatballs</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
1 package Kraft Recipe Makers Sweet and Sour Chicken flavor<br />
5 cups cooked white rice<br />
1 red bell pepper<br />
1 green bell pepper<br />
1 small red onion<br />
about 20 small, precooked chicken meatballs (homemade or store-bought)<br />
1 8 oz. can pineapple chunks, drained <br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Instructions:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
Cook rice.<br />
Heat frozen meatballs in the microwave until hot, set aside. Cut bell peppers into bite size pieces.<br />
Slice onion. Put vegetables into a large frying pan. Add the Sesame Ginger simmer sauce to the pan.<br />
Cook until vegetables are crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.<br />
Add cooked meatballs, can of pineapple chunks, and Sweet and Sour Pineapple finishing sauce.<br />
Stir together. Heat 3 minutes, until heated through.<br />
Serve over hot rice. <br />
<br />
Serves 5<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-23147801163334596032013-10-02T14:18:00.000-07:002013-10-02T14:18:19.617-07:00My Fall Favorite, Apple Bread Pudding With Vanilla Ice Cream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEh8tTJQlIYZ_1fw3pvZnXw1zIsw7Gk8v49fMNYiIyUN3CYkUSoL5gmtY8ToW4Vlbfeycj2rdTn7KR_FRW4cah813lk6DfEenSzx1CCL9MzAssk1vcbRX8cQiPWQ2pgNHFeEdlZU22mOq/s1600/IMG_8285+Apple+Pudding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEh8tTJQlIYZ_1fw3pvZnXw1zIsw7Gk8v49fMNYiIyUN3CYkUSoL5gmtY8ToW4Vlbfeycj2rdTn7KR_FRW4cah813lk6DfEenSzx1CCL9MzAssk1vcbRX8cQiPWQ2pgNHFeEdlZU22mOq/s640/IMG_8285+Apple+Pudding.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Fall is definitely in the air here in Washington State. Apples are everywhere it seems like, and inspiring us to make some yummy desserts.<br />
<br />
Come see the recipe for my <a href="http://www.frugalfamilytree.com/2013/10/my-fall-favorite-apple-bread-pudding.html" rel="nofollow">Apple Bread Pudding</a> at Frugal Family Tree, where I am also writing with my two daughters, Samantha and Laura, again.<br />
<br />
Hope you are enjoying your fall.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-80265829697033620492013-09-24T16:46:00.000-07:002013-09-24T16:46:03.678-07:00Cheap But Fabulous Vintage Shopping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxtTTJpVu6vnjRmsTsZNgXK4ERaaevf3loGcnmTNktnK5RbR9FIEUZaXwF3NKd_0YvzExXXqeKfUMT-oUkEqL6TdM4NcLLyCYQ9MrzKXM94QIggzFj12x4bNyKW5FXg-qIKPNqMS_16XpH/s1600/IMG_7639+Franciscan+Dinnerware.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxtTTJpVu6vnjRmsTsZNgXK4ERaaevf3loGcnmTNktnK5RbR9FIEUZaXwF3NKd_0YvzExXXqeKfUMT-oUkEqL6TdM4NcLLyCYQ9MrzKXM94QIggzFj12x4bNyKW5FXg-qIKPNqMS_16XpH/s640/IMG_7639+Franciscan+Dinnerware.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Over the weekend I did one of my absolutely favorite things, shopping at thrift stores and estate sales.<br />
<br />
It happened to be a particularly good couple of days to find some bargains. The Franciscan Dinnerware was a fantastic bargain at Goodwill. I got six dinner plates in perfect condition at only a dollar each.<br />
<br />
They are listed at $10.75 each right now on Ebay. I remember these from my own childhood, so there is great sentimental value in having them.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhADLdzBu6dGA1A7Tt8uQ8Rakw6IZv9hmYO4sxMq1yFqiMF7sJMlNDI2VELUGjg8GQr-lBrctUSVXEOUUPpR0Uw9zEnvtdh_RUYDVsthE-jFDNRwYiQ6mN8UlVWB8EzBoPY7JnxOFKPGn-c/s1600/IMG_7609+vintage+mixing+bowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhADLdzBu6dGA1A7Tt8uQ8Rakw6IZv9hmYO4sxMq1yFqiMF7sJMlNDI2VELUGjg8GQr-lBrctUSVXEOUUPpR0Uw9zEnvtdh_RUYDVsthE-jFDNRwYiQ6mN8UlVWB8EzBoPY7JnxOFKPGn-c/s640/IMG_7609+vintage+mixing+bowl.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This very heavy, old mixing bowl was only $3 from an estate sale I went to. It's perfect for cake making.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsmuXaf1FJji7rovBJqzVmJX4Or4i1V7xr_dDEOjJO47cu7IsC5qjyZMxx2lyZVsfb6seiy-8-VuZQC1GG3WFJk6q9bhmRYPF_KycPRAVYkrBlii_DsS-wZxsJV3bg5FYPnKYKZ1IJ0zV/s1600/IMG_7591+dessert+dishes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsmuXaf1FJji7rovBJqzVmJX4Or4i1V7xr_dDEOjJO47cu7IsC5qjyZMxx2lyZVsfb6seiy-8-VuZQC1GG3WFJk6q9bhmRYPF_KycPRAVYkrBlii_DsS-wZxsJV3bg5FYPnKYKZ1IJ0zV/s640/IMG_7591+dessert+dishes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I love these dessert dishes for the upcoming fall holidays. They were $5 for six of them at the estate sale. Love the color.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY8j8Xhhl76m8kt5eTPKquHWRy_yKS3QLzwUnHMh-dwJgwMWwVNRZ20m2k8pUYL6GKqsvqUX19jBeOVx6K_rnBcRDYxnF8plrPUbD7RnmO__wceSGS-1p96AIYZmW6XCoxTm4y8FDubm2J/s1600/IMG_7599+Pink+basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY8j8Xhhl76m8kt5eTPKquHWRy_yKS3QLzwUnHMh-dwJgwMWwVNRZ20m2k8pUYL6GKqsvqUX19jBeOVx6K_rnBcRDYxnF8plrPUbD7RnmO__wceSGS-1p96AIYZmW6XCoxTm4y8FDubm2J/s640/IMG_7599+Pink+basket.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I collect baskets, and this pink one was in perfect condition, and only $1. I think it has a sweet vintage feel to it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszEgxo_7-Ekby41e6KwgB6uWo58mIvlHWBb2RWAnuRZTHMTZczOR8dK7FlrqSP0cRZYHnjzeW8TBU3f1q_qCIncjjI3XHTbWAyP3FO8fPZi5wu_XPN0DpIaO3SPpQPwzjbXCe7gTBk7Sy/s1600/IMG_7577+suger+and+creamer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszEgxo_7-Ekby41e6KwgB6uWo58mIvlHWBb2RWAnuRZTHMTZczOR8dK7FlrqSP0cRZYHnjzeW8TBU3f1q_qCIncjjI3XHTbWAyP3FO8fPZi5wu_XPN0DpIaO3SPpQPwzjbXCe7gTBk7Sy/s640/IMG_7577+suger+and+creamer.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I love old sugar and creamer sets. This French inspired one is something I'll use right away. Coffee and tea are even sweeter with this.<br />
<br />
I love shopping for old and vintage items. When it's a day out with my girls, it's even better.<br />
<br />
Do you shop for vintage? What are some of your great finds?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-26119311187917987672013-09-20T08:31:00.001-07:002013-09-20T08:31:42.900-07:00Recipe For Homemade Chocolate Donuts With Orange Glaze<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgdyf2L7ETV8s1d_Ces6NpWqG9bsO8gpVGGXLFLTiDCdv5EYuSiLtD8NIPrNRjHcq5uXtUvn2fhYCYPl9ankTT7gFQGJhaBhgT_JocLP2H4_lq1SD7l4qdxzlFbm_wl3qDjCNPEbDzNaE3/s1600/IMG_8152++Donuts+!st+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgdyf2L7ETV8s1d_Ces6NpWqG9bsO8gpVGGXLFLTiDCdv5EYuSiLtD8NIPrNRjHcq5uXtUvn2fhYCYPl9ankTT7gFQGJhaBhgT_JocLP2H4_lq1SD7l4qdxzlFbm_wl3qDjCNPEbDzNaE3/s640/IMG_8152++Donuts+!st+pic.jpg" width="508" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Donuts are one of my favorite treats to eat. I've always thought that to make good donuts they had to be made with hot oil, but that isn't so anymore<br />
<br />
Now you can bake them in the oven, and they are perfectly delicious. And they are easy and fast to whip up, too. These donuts are rich and chocolaty, with a sweet glaze made with a little bit of orange juice.<br />
<br />
They are perfect with a hot cup of coffee in the morning, or a cup of apple cider in the evening<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXDWngBiDFyPpqQ010sj3WRMaAG4U5DSyavdINclum3BzoEGrAnu7Pn-nrcJEZHjze5wZ3rMuybebgXhNpyv6lpvMRvKmwM8fN61An3yPaZ3jyal8jJj7r2we_UQ51RX2ESlN5e3wBhpw/s1600/IMG_8151+donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXDWngBiDFyPpqQ010sj3WRMaAG4U5DSyavdINclum3BzoEGrAnu7Pn-nrcJEZHjze5wZ3rMuybebgXhNpyv6lpvMRvKmwM8fN61An3yPaZ3jyal8jJj7r2we_UQ51RX2ESlN5e3wBhpw/s640/IMG_8151+donuts.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidico_kKyaRppYYdD3CJYu9Ls1P7Csylq2odACDiAvqwxTPzMzKhV51s8-ersNIKu8G1-fdmDfAbwJBMMktsa8GJ7uWFiJ-EBy06uUUblbiorCLII38ekpodjcwLb_7USWfqXL3odZ5-5Z/s1600/IMG_8107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidico_kKyaRppYYdD3CJYu9Ls1P7Csylq2odACDiAvqwxTPzMzKhV51s8-ersNIKu8G1-fdmDfAbwJBMMktsa8GJ7uWFiJ-EBy06uUUblbiorCLII38ekpodjcwLb_7USWfqXL3odZ5-5Z/s640/IMG_8107.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I recently bought this donut pan from Wilton, and it made making the donuts so easy. When you grease the pan, the donuts slip right out after baking, keeping their shape.<br />
<br />
<br />
This recipe makes twelve donuts, and the pan lets you bake six at a time. And they only bake for ten minutes, so it doesn't take long at all to have warm, delicious, homemade donuts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0eafkjAGOJm1mnjkX7fIZBnlv9avqLndC921G-Izjyup8vv5Z4RgVtX5wmkPJB8nvbO_iSH2wSzU7LHHwILK0le9pvY1XiXap9GPUZuO4-jR1AD2s51DgZ1Lihqh0PCWzzTliMrjuJG07/s1600/IMG_8157+Donuts+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0eafkjAGOJm1mnjkX7fIZBnlv9avqLndC921G-Izjyup8vv5Z4RgVtX5wmkPJB8nvbO_iSH2wSzU7LHHwILK0le9pvY1XiXap9GPUZuO4-jR1AD2s51DgZ1Lihqh0PCWzzTliMrjuJG07/s640/IMG_8157+Donuts+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Recipe for Chocolate Donuts with Orange Glaze</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
1 1/2 cups flour<br />
1/2 cup cocoa powder <br />
1 cup sugar<br />
2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1 cup buttermilk<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla<br />
3 tablespoons butter, melted<br />
<br />
<strong>Glaze:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar<br />
2 tablespoons milk<br />
4 tablespoons orange juice.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Directions:</strong><br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 325 degrees<br />
Spray a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray<br />
<br />
In a medium bowl, combine well all the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. Beat them together and then add them to the dry ingredients.<br />
Add the melted butter to the mixture, and mix until a batter has formed.<br />
<br />
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan and bake for 10 minutes.<br />
Then turn donuts out onto a cooling rack, and let donuts cool.<br />
<br />
To make the glaze, put powered sugar in a medium bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of milk, and 4 tablespoons of orange juice. Stir until glaze is smooth. Add orange food coloring if desired.<br />
Spread glaze on cooled donuts and let it dribble down the sides.<br />
<br />
Makes 1 dozen donuts.<br />
<strong></strong><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-17028231438374557802013-09-13T14:43:00.000-07:002013-09-13T14:47:59.954-07:00seriously snacking on...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkDPilz3dCWIspazlZurewo16TFUF08pngBQlUFEnrqlW7vFHjdHbOgwQ-OfT8sb4OHwoZZTf3abizE5xi-OI_9EL18hPgf8Cqi4ubbfyydp7rtKfQbBJ84-4IeilPUSbCADkSJKOHQ/s1600/snacking+on+sea+salt+caramel.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkDPilz3dCWIspazlZurewo16TFUF08pngBQlUFEnrqlW7vFHjdHbOgwQ-OfT8sb4OHwoZZTf3abizE5xi-OI_9EL18hPgf8Cqi4ubbfyydp7rtKfQbBJ84-4IeilPUSbCADkSJKOHQ/s640/snacking+on+sea+salt+caramel.png" width="480" /></a></div>
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<br />
~ Guest post by Samantha ~<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lately I have been obsessed with all things Sea Salt, so when I stumbled upon this Organic Popcorn snack of Sea Salt Caramel from <a href="http://www.479popcorn.com/index.html" rel="nofollow">479</a> it was a must try! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This snack did not disappoint, the balance of sweet and salty is amazing. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have not always been that big of a fan of caramel popcorn, it can be overwhelming and too sweet, adding the sea salt has changed my opinion of caramel popcorn. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you are seriously craving salty and sweet this is a good go to snack!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*This is not a sponsored post, I just wanted to share with you what I am <strike>currently obsessed with</strike> snacking on.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-13616460487563948702013-09-12T07:05:00.000-07:002013-09-12T07:05:07.439-07:00A Recipe For Corn Pudding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVV0ADn4gADQ85DqvDfjqd_VixdjzdZLv8iOdIzpQVVXO-0CP2sv84FgUaYPd__xZ6OwckPQXSxt7NQ4cmkFcLA9R-9SvGiNaU6gSjnq2DhZbu2GbkZMsINkNd2TAUgqq-QAzMUVodNWo/s1600/IMG_7675+Corn+Pudding+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="566" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVV0ADn4gADQ85DqvDfjqd_VixdjzdZLv8iOdIzpQVVXO-0CP2sv84FgUaYPd__xZ6OwckPQXSxt7NQ4cmkFcLA9R-9SvGiNaU6gSjnq2DhZbu2GbkZMsINkNd2TAUgqq-QAzMUVodNWo/s640/IMG_7675+Corn+Pudding+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
When fall comes, my thoughts start turning to heartier foods for dinner. Things like roast beef, meatloaf, and roast chicken are some of my favorites.<br />
<br />
This requires some great side dishes to go with the meat, and this recipe for corn pudding is delicious.<br />
You can make it with corn cut right off the cobb, and while it's still available in the market, or frozen corn.<br />
Either way, this makes a wonderful side dish, and it's easy enough to make for everyday meals, or fancy enough to be on your Thanksgiving table.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0FYimARMbqZp45Sd5zH4AdjvDd_hVYiEF_Uh_LrAkhFWmzMlgDqyTY0-jbd7DEuLi1POy6elNrpw7hF_u393zsbXeOMgYAExgTwcYLCWJZt-ICTHa4Hr53Lqq0j1Snxm-I_oqEEGTWHDe/s1600/IMG_7676+Corn+Pudding+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0FYimARMbqZp45Sd5zH4AdjvDd_hVYiEF_Uh_LrAkhFWmzMlgDqyTY0-jbd7DEuLi1POy6elNrpw7hF_u393zsbXeOMgYAExgTwcYLCWJZt-ICTHa4Hr53Lqq0j1Snxm-I_oqEEGTWHDe/s640/IMG_7676+Corn+Pudding+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The recipe comes from my favorite magazine, Country Living. I found it a few years ago, and every time I make it, there isn't a kernel left. Even the pickiest eaters love it.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<strong>Recipe for Corn Pudding</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
Olive Oil for greasing baking dish<br />
2 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen<br />
1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped<br />
1/2 small yellow onion, finely chopped<br />
2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese<br />
2 tablespoons flour<br />
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
1/2 teaspoon black pepper<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk <br />
<br />
<strong>Directions:</strong><br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease 2-quart baking dish with olive oil and set aside.<br />
<br />
In a medium bowl, toss together corn, bell pepper, onion, cheese, flour, mustard, salt, and pepper. <br />
<br />
In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Stir egg mixture into corn mixture and pour into prepared baking dish. Bake until set, about 40 minutes.<br />
<br />
Makes 6 servings.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-4197409354217383532013-09-10T09:30:00.000-07:002013-09-10T09:30:58.513-07:00Making Cheesy Whole Wheat Dog Treats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1a5bNmPcKy5jRbQrUKM3ByQbd8y2UfnV-Ls73MtyGazwM10gwEszi6yVZgtGjWeZ621_OMzNQ8B-Ym_T0ljvEcN2xPVB3rBU2AZGOyDjd8koqDFvxJ5FgG8wlx1gHwgVZQ70aJ3Xr7Il/s1600/IMG_7544+Chese+Dog+Treats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1a5bNmPcKy5jRbQrUKM3ByQbd8y2UfnV-Ls73MtyGazwM10gwEszi6yVZgtGjWeZ621_OMzNQ8B-Ym_T0ljvEcN2xPVB3rBU2AZGOyDjd8koqDFvxJ5FgG8wlx1gHwgVZQ70aJ3Xr7Il/s640/IMG_7544+Chese+Dog+Treats.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
Dare I admit that I have never really been a dog person? I know many people love their dogs like they might love their own children, but I have never been one of those people.<br />
<br />
When you are raising five children, the amount of pee, poop, and vomit you deal with is no small amount. And I just never wanted to deal with that when it came to adding a dog to the family.<br />
<br />
But that changed when a certain dog came into my life. A dog I like so much (ok, love) that I actually bake dog treats for him. Go figure. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6wC_Bq-pPCs1HYsjIkzIIe-rJOKJt8Ga4NCYLucWckWgUiVpi-gjWv57uunzX1JbnQxKNLuZC9vpDdzxd4yuiW909CkB97TU_nI_27vNvA54bD0gFzmKlxxpC3bQuMT1Q6AD0Jvn-29JC/s1600/IMG_7495+Chewie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6wC_Bq-pPCs1HYsjIkzIIe-rJOKJt8Ga4NCYLucWckWgUiVpi-gjWv57uunzX1JbnQxKNLuZC9vpDdzxd4yuiW909CkB97TU_nI_27vNvA54bD0gFzmKlxxpC3bQuMT1Q6AD0Jvn-29JC/s640/IMG_7495+Chewie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
This is our sweet Chewie. The guy really lives up to him name too. He has been know to destroy everything from a fabulous pair of new high-heels, to a complete set of wooden toy blocks.<br />
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But he is always forgiven, of course. Just look at that face.<br />
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<br />
I whipped up this batch of easy cheesy dog treats for Chewie, and he loved them. They look especially cute when you use a bone shaped cookie-cutter, and it's an easy shape for your dog to eat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_8FeqWMIJZFiG7cHFZgoqIMnyFdca5j8wrlzbbjJod9am8jFEKKJpkI2t1JqrkKVEe6R2PBknipEGO_E_cKw-uX1jOH3qkYU5d1YwMcjCmBmkgNJK9LbWUD52f59G_1V7SKd4S30Nzc0s/s1600/IMG_7545+Dog+Treats+pic+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_8FeqWMIJZFiG7cHFZgoqIMnyFdca5j8wrlzbbjJod9am8jFEKKJpkI2t1JqrkKVEe6R2PBknipEGO_E_cKw-uX1jOH3qkYU5d1YwMcjCmBmkgNJK9LbWUD52f59G_1V7SKd4S30Nzc0s/s640/IMG_7545+Dog+Treats+pic+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
These treats are great to give as gifts too, around the holidays, to the dog and dog-lover in your life.<br />
I guarantee the pups will gobble them up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Recipe for Cheesy Whole Wheat Dog Treats</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>Ingredients: </strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
3 cups whole wheat flour<br />
11/2 cups cheddar cheese<br />
1 egg<br />
1 cup water or beef broth<br />
<br />
<strong>Directions:</strong><br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
Place flour in medium bowl, add cheese, egg, and water or broth. Stir until thoroughly combined.<br />
Roll out dough on floured surface to about 3/8 of an inch thick.<br />
Use cookie cutter to cut shapes. Place them on a foil lined cookie sheet and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until firm.<br />
<br />
Makes about 2 dozen treats, depending on cookie-cutter size.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-70760311935199191332013-09-09T13:06:00.000-07:002013-09-09T13:06:08.988-07:00Fall, Family, and My Favorite Magazine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3QGkdP9LnAVYW7i8Ae22wFjsZZiaKhwi3luRi73u2x_eipJtE9UwPUr_dEe1jbmUvJfM_9-TS-Gzq5I548kzt_VbXh-7_pkmOKm6GbTV2aDoo8UeXBt5QZIC7We4P_0xr3U8ctLFL5xRN/s1600/IMG_7554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3QGkdP9LnAVYW7i8Ae22wFjsZZiaKhwi3luRi73u2x_eipJtE9UwPUr_dEe1jbmUvJfM_9-TS-Gzq5I548kzt_VbXh-7_pkmOKm6GbTV2aDoo8UeXBt5QZIC7We4P_0xr3U8ctLFL5xRN/s640/IMG_7554.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
I remember buying the very first issue of Country Living Magazine. I had only one child at the time, and he was two years old. Michael is now thirty six years old, and I have never missed an issue of this magazine that I love.<br />
<br />
I wish I had kept all my issues, but moving and lack of storage made me part with many of them. I have managed to save most of the October, November, and December copies, and they are truly my treasures. <br />
I use them every holiday season for recipes, craft ideas, Christmas decorating, and much more.<br />
<br />
Yes, I know Pinterest can provide all of this, and I am a very active Pinterest user. But these magazines were a part of my life way before Pinterest came to be. I love the tradition of pulling them out, and feeling like the holidays are on their way.<br />
<br />
Of course, you don't have to live in the country to enjoy reading Country Living. You can live anywhere in the world, and city or country.<br />
<br />
I still love magazines in this internet era, and I hope they never disappear. The sight of the October issue of Country Living yesterday made me happy.<br />
<br />
What about you, do you still buy and read magazines?<br />
<br />
If you do, I'd love to know what you read, do tell!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-5760173044307113492013-09-05T13:03:00.000-07:002013-09-05T13:03:02.322-07:00Grammy's Peach-Custard Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW8ObTB6RTEbgxJIxU1NR28OlymnyKPjF9cRGKjQrN_V52maxi5N_2HDAw6-VMu5HpP0k0-JRHraOptEOnloL7DEnZppF9nkUm7oVjXWhBrP3b8OqRt6oPzQAQ3Da4rpabvMtczqouV3H4/s1600/IMG_7288+peach+pie+last.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW8ObTB6RTEbgxJIxU1NR28OlymnyKPjF9cRGKjQrN_V52maxi5N_2HDAw6-VMu5HpP0k0-JRHraOptEOnloL7DEnZppF9nkUm7oVjXWhBrP3b8OqRt6oPzQAQ3Da4rpabvMtczqouV3H4/s640/IMG_7288+peach+pie+last.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
I'm not the Grammy in the name of this recipe, but I wouldn't mind being her. She has created quite a delicious recipe here, and one that takes advantage of the lovely peaches in the market right now.<br />
<br />
But this is also quite fabulous if you used canned peaches like I did, and much faster. Either way, this is a pie that everyone will love.<br />
<br />
My grandson Jayden had a piece and declared it was delicious, so maybe I should start calling it 'Nana's Peach-Custard Pie'.<br />
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<br />
<b>Recipe for Grammy's Peach-Custard Pie</b><br />
<b></b><br />
I used an easy Martha Stewart <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/336991/easy-pie-crust">pie crust recipe</a>. This recipe is for a top and bottom crust, but you only need a bottom crust for this peach pie. You can freeze the extra crust if you don't want to use it for another pie right away.<br />
<br />
<b>Filling Ingredients:</b><br />
<b></b><br />
3 cups peeled and sliced fresh peaches (about 5 peaches) <b>or</b> <br />
3 (15-oz.) cans sliced peaches in juice or light syrup, drained and rinsed<br />
1 cup plus 3 tablespoons granulated sugar<br />
1 tablespoon butter<br />
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour<br />
2 large eggs<br />
<br />
<b>Directions:</b><br />
<br />
Prepare crust. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.<br />
<br />
In a medium bowl, toss peaches with 3 tablespoons sugar; let stand 5 minutes. <br />
In a blender, place butter, flour, eggs, and remaining 1 cup sugar. Blend until smooth.<br />
Stir egg mixture into peach mixture;, then pour into pie crust.<br />
Bake 45-50 minutes, or until filling has set, and top is golden.<br />
Completely cool on wire rack. Chill about 4 hours before serving.<br />
<br />
Serves 6-8, depending on serving size.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-57669865972159873802013-09-03T10:43:00.000-07:002013-09-03T10:43:20.994-07:00Funkins Review and Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbnD41dr5m5YFLadzYMrbF2Ocg_rer5fYvybvGsFtTwUkUHUB4wrJIqILn9l4IyRsvLoP6s4dnQYjdZO1ncza4QlN1HIUa4mZEORXBtb6Bghcj3kkEIbSTY4fhtI0sSxVmxQZ13BnG661/s1600/IMG_7017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbnD41dr5m5YFLadzYMrbF2Ocg_rer5fYvybvGsFtTwUkUHUB4wrJIqILn9l4IyRsvLoP6s4dnQYjdZO1ncza4QlN1HIUa4mZEORXBtb6Bghcj3kkEIbSTY4fhtI0sSxVmxQZ13BnG661/s640/IMG_7017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
I love it when a Mom or Dad comes up with a good idea for a kid's product to make life better.<br />
<br />
That's exactly how <a href="http://www.myfunkins.com/">Funkins</a> came into being. What are Funkins?<br />
<br />
They are fun and cute cloth placemats/napkins for kids made out 100% cotton fabric. Funkins are a smart and environmentally friendly alterative to disposable napkins, placemats or table cloths.<br />
They are easy to pack in a child's lunch, and can make having a meal or snack much more fun.<br />
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One of the reasons I think Funkins are great is because when you are out in public eating places like a fast-food restaurant, they can provide a protective barrier on surfaces.<br />
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There are lots of times when I wish the tables were cleaner when my grandchildren are eating out, and with Funkins, I know their food is safer.<br />
<br />
You can easily fold them up and toss them in your purse or bag, and pull them out when it's time to eat.<br />
My grandchildren love them, and since Jayden will be playing soccer, he chose this fun soccer print Funkins for his own.<br />
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This cute Eiffel Tower print is for my granddaughter. Each Funkins measures 13" x 15", and all fabrics are made with low impact dyes. <br />
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They can be used as a placemat and a napkin, and make meal time fun, giving each child his or her own special space.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEqmdGvWm2S2x7Z0neGblLpvajO9W7VB4EhUuafSjTEdN0lYrFYiyUUu8MtvXruJBL8-SJmXBGuxThF8Xc9PKXLv_lrHMkzJSO5n-x9ofPMNv5w60p2iZK3Z8pi-hB-QQwNSkcugxC4eb/s1600/IMG_7046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEqmdGvWm2S2x7Z0neGblLpvajO9W7VB4EhUuafSjTEdN0lYrFYiyUUu8MtvXruJBL8-SJmXBGuxThF8Xc9PKXLv_lrHMkzJSO5n-x9ofPMNv5w60p2iZK3Z8pi-hB-QQwNSkcugxC4eb/s640/IMG_7046.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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My grandson Liam loves dinosaurs, so this cheerful print was perfect for him. I like how easy they are to toss in the washer, and keep on being bright and durable, wash after wash.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcze66Lws0cy_PB0GhJeumoO941WYA9jQt-pZKRb19uUGcVo29tj9KX6yh9wd9Xv6xNSjnNOznnBs9cW0Sk8b8J8zCfit-RtHwSqtzHUmdWpUrIRmzGI9U8w2MJxNxUk6j6MrrnBtqB8p/s1600/IMG_7059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcze66Lws0cy_PB0GhJeumoO941WYA9jQt-pZKRb19uUGcVo29tj9KX6yh9wd9Xv6xNSjnNOznnBs9cW0Sk8b8J8zCfit-RtHwSqtzHUmdWpUrIRmzGI9U8w2MJxNxUk6j6MrrnBtqB8p/s640/IMG_7059.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Each Funkins has a different print on each side, and can be used on either one. They also make great gifts, and party decorations. <br />
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Themed Funkins are available for holidays and special occasions like Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Earth Day, and more.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXAEeI7Hx9c_znhmaZ4G7YhhICdDwxLwzMbD6Bh603cVzo_p2apTlwCUdtfAF4rh7gw1o-XYpNO-z12Fu8HKbzBz8G3Px4OfXG3rG2Qw8YKVeGkIfAUJukfaU11loia0h41Z0vtguIGUaq/s1600/IMG_7011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXAEeI7Hx9c_znhmaZ4G7YhhICdDwxLwzMbD6Bh603cVzo_p2apTlwCUdtfAF4rh7gw1o-XYpNO-z12Fu8HKbzBz8G3Px4OfXG3rG2Qw8YKVeGkIfAUJukfaU11loia0h41Z0vtguIGUaq/s640/IMG_7011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Funkins are a part of waste-free lunch programs that are in some schools. A waste-free lunch is one that creates no litter apart from natural food waste.<br />
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These kinds of lunches involve reusable food and drink containers, instead of plastic baggies, foil, or other disposable products. <br />
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The average child throws away 67 pounds of lunch waste each school year, so waste-free lunches can have a major positive impact on our environment.<br />
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In an effort to encourage more families to consider a waste-free lunch lifestyle, I am hosting a giveaway of a set of three Funkins.<br />
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GIVEAWAY<br />
<br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f2a4da18/" id="rc-f2a4da18" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
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<br />
*Limited to US residents 18 years old and above. Giveaway starts Sept. 3, 2013 and ends on Sept 17, 2013 at 12:01 am EST. Winner will be emailed and has 72 hours to respond before another winner is selected. I was not paid for this giveaway or post. The opinions on this item are 100% mine and may vary from others. The sponsor / PR is responsible for providing the prize. I was sent products to review for my post.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-79657650969417688722013-09-01T13:54:00.002-07:002013-09-09T10:37:59.926-07:00Celebrating The Coming Season With Fall Recipes For Hot Apple Cider And Candy Apples #HarvestFun #shop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My favorite season is fall, and here in Washington State, the leaves are already beginning to turn gold.<br />
I'm very excited about the fall baking that I will be doing, and making favorite fall recipes and discovering new ones, too.<br />
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I love making fall treats for family and friends. I'm a grandmother to four little ones, and they love it when I make or bake something delicious just for them.<br />
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This weekend I could feel fall in the air, so I decided to make candy apples with Candy Corn flavored M&M's, and some delicious Mott's hot apple cider.<br />
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I went shopping at <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/photos/105835612968885829452/albums/5918118407899012481" rel="nofollow">Walmart</a> to buy the new fall packaged <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mms" rel="nofollow">M&M's</a>. They come in four flavors, including Peanut, Peanut Butter, Milk Chocolate, and the flavor I bought, Candy Corn.<br />
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I have made candy apples with <a href="https://twitter.com/mmsgreen" rel="nofollow">M&M's</a> before, and they are always a hit. They are great for fall activities where a treat is needed, and the perfect cute spin on giving an apple to your child's teacher.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCvGy7Wct06Vw5ZD1OlLcUgeot9Mwl3iCtnXGLX9LePHCJjaswkfgfSkrpvpGQJmjzi3-SvI62-QslLFHJiSaBalb0synW8XKL_IbdBA4sb63NPDS6A0jKCJ3mTManWVE_ZSlPGtq5FrX4/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage+apple+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCvGy7Wct06Vw5ZD1OlLcUgeot9Mwl3iCtnXGLX9LePHCJjaswkfgfSkrpvpGQJmjzi3-SvI62-QslLFHJiSaBalb0synW8XKL_IbdBA4sb63NPDS6A0jKCJ3mTManWVE_ZSlPGtq5FrX4/s640/PicMonkey+Collage+apple+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Candy apples are easy to make, and it's fun to find different ingredients to make the outside coating taste delicious.<br />
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Candy corn is something we always have on hand in the fall, so I knew the Candy Corn flavored M&M's would be great to roll the caramel apples in. I just used my mini Magic Bullet to chop the M&M's, dipped the apples in the melted caramel, and then rolled them in the candy.<br />
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I really love giving candy apples as an unexpected little gift, or a thank you. I almost feel guilty for how little effort it took to make them, when the receiver is so happy to get them.<br />
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These were a huge hit this weekend with my kids and grandkids, so I'll try the other flavors of the fall M&M's too, especially the peanut kind.<br />
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I also made some hot apple cider this weekend, and we sat outside on the deck with it in the evening. This could be the last time we will be doing that, as the evenings are getting quite chilly.<br />
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I like making my apple cider with a bit of a citrus twist, by adding orange juice and lemon juice to the Mott's apple juice. This recipe can be doubled or tripled for a larger group, and not only do the adults love it, but the kids do to. <br />
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And your kitchen will smell deliciously like cinnamon and spices.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiPP9bciX-vVqmHR3QKWsKTjdu4ZHHnOO1qg0vFiDraKfTURtdiJtaci3V1dxfni7DQ98rYzVJNOt5wlYKQp6iopGhmGWPhETA3tCR_meCf2qWgw_4wxEQ7TBTOaCihW1tWcrXunVuAwkF/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage+cider+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiPP9bciX-vVqmHR3QKWsKTjdu4ZHHnOO1qg0vFiDraKfTURtdiJtaci3V1dxfni7DQ98rYzVJNOt5wlYKQp6iopGhmGWPhETA3tCR_meCf2qWgw_4wxEQ7TBTOaCihW1tWcrXunVuAwkF/s640/PicMonkey+Collage+cider+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've been buying the Mott's brand of apple juice for years, and gave it to my children, and now to my grandchildren.<br />
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It's the base of this great tasting apple cider with a twist. I like heating a cup of this cider in the microwave for myself in the afternoon or evening.<br />
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For me, nothing says fall like apple cider. It's so easy to make your own, and it tastes so much better than the bottled kind.<br />
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I love how cute these apples came out, and my daughter thought they would make sweet gifts for the teachers on Back To School Night.<br />
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<strong>Recipe for Candy Corn Flavored M&M Candy Apples</strong><br />
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<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
5 apples, washed and dried<br />
5 popsicle sticks<br />
1 11 ounce package Kraft Caramel Bits<br />
2 bags Candy Corn flavored M&M's<br />
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<strong>Directions:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
Insert popsicle sticks about half way into apples.<br />
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In batches, chop up M&M's in a Magic Bullet or blender. Heat caramel bits according to package directions. <br />
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Dip apples in caramel and twist by stick to remove excess. Roll in crushed M&M's, then place on waxed paper. Place in fridge to set and cool.<br />
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<strong>Recipe for Mott's Hot Apple Cider With a Citrus Twist</strong><br />
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<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
1 quart Mott's Apple Juice<br />
1/2 cup water<br />
1/2 cup orange juice<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
1/4 cup lemon juice<br />
1 cinnamon stick<br />
1 tablespoon brown sugar<br />
2 table spoons cloves or cider spice mix<br />
Additional cinnamon sticks for serving with cider<br />
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<strong>Directions:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
In a large saucepan, combine the first 8 ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat: simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.<br />
Strain, discarding cinnamon stick and cloves. Serve warm, garnish with additional cinnamon sticks.<br />
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Makes 5 cups.<br />
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For more great ideas visit the Fall Baking and Entertaining Pinterest Board.
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<a data-pin-board-width="800" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="300" href="http://pinterest.com/cbsocially/fall-baking-and-entertaining/"></a><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script></center>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-69715072597492366012013-08-29T08:41:00.000-07:002013-08-29T08:41:14.630-07:00Recipe For Chocolate Dipped Macaroons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis0S0zs6TbCym3o_jNcoz3nyQdgk3ZCW75m7y9hBCZ9tR36ebrqELGI39POtoKTH0PIIh1tNNJhPGEofLEf3SGGRscKY-hBc4OJoNPC0TNYj2fxAToLimhPo-8ZzKFwEoSbxOyFbcKW1Yo/s1600/IMG_6777+macaroons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis0S0zs6TbCym3o_jNcoz3nyQdgk3ZCW75m7y9hBCZ9tR36ebrqELGI39POtoKTH0PIIh1tNNJhPGEofLEf3SGGRscKY-hBc4OJoNPC0TNYj2fxAToLimhPo-8ZzKFwEoSbxOyFbcKW1Yo/s640/IMG_6777+macaroons.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do you like macaroons? <br />
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I love them, especially if they are dipped in chocolate. I came across this super easy recipe for making some.<br />
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These are perfect for an everyday cookie to keep in the cookie jar, or fancy enough to put in a pretty package and give as a gift. I'll be giving some at Christmastime for sure. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQuI2y19WXK4FK2VpYVDtrd7XxHdr4IJQ0Xw99v90Iq8VWwD_Zuf0OW1Iq8vjyKUk-lgse3xDpQq4mxUWcOISFtB5JP1140EGWZg62IE5DvXJd-zh5tF6KYmQUgRjqsTyUd0LFFNLMvfRR/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage+macaroons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQuI2y19WXK4FK2VpYVDtrd7XxHdr4IJQ0Xw99v90Iq8VWwD_Zuf0OW1Iq8vjyKUk-lgse3xDpQq4mxUWcOISFtB5JP1140EGWZg62IE5DvXJd-zh5tF6KYmQUgRjqsTyUd0LFFNLMvfRR/s640/PicMonkey+Collage+macaroons.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The recipe calls for very few ingredients, so use the best available. I buy the sweetened coconut from the bulk foods section of my grocery store. It's much fresher than the coconut in packages.<br />
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You can also use white, or milk chocolate to dip the macaroons in. I used dark chocolate this time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIwmKhoFStO2xxpWCY4jmpaO9vgx-vO3Nc3YaB6plTUmFCCdstR3u6DxAGR6TxO8aU_4WnIvBcW4S3mxaCJYv8MddgUmEN4HCGFiabeb-G_ERPO5CfVHDCmM7ApNGX533T3Xs40ix39Bp/s1600/IMG_6763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIwmKhoFStO2xxpWCY4jmpaO9vgx-vO3Nc3YaB6plTUmFCCdstR3u6DxAGR6TxO8aU_4WnIvBcW4S3mxaCJYv8MddgUmEN4HCGFiabeb-G_ERPO5CfVHDCmM7ApNGX533T3Xs40ix39Bp/s640/IMG_6763.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
<b>Recipe for Chocolate Dipped Macaroons</b><br />
<b></b><br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<b></b><br />
1/3 cup all-purpose flour<br />
2 1/2 cups sweetened coconut flakes<br />
1/8 teaspoon salt<br />
2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract <br />
4 ounces dark, white, or milk chocolate, melted<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
<b></b><br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a large cookie sheet.<br />
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In a large bowl, stir together flour, coconut, and salt. Add condensed milk and vanilla; stir until well combined.<br />
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Drop batter by tablespoonful, 1 inch apart, onto prepared cookie sheet. Bake 15 minutes or until just golden on bottoms. <br />
Transfer to wire racks to cool completely. When cookies are cool, dip top halves into melted chocolate. Let stand until set.<br />
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Makes 1 dozen cookies.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-40416254054583679332013-08-27T10:43:00.003-07:002013-08-27T10:43:24.762-07:00Sewing A Sweet Children's Owl Shirt <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When you haven't sewn in decades, every little project seems like a triumph. This little top that I sewed for my granddaughter, made me enormously happy.<br />
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I can see myself sewing more complex projects in the future, and getting back to a part of my life that I really loved. When my five children were growing up, I just couldn't find the time to sew. But now that I have free time, I'm very excited!!<br />
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This top was quite easy, and I finished it in a few hours. I love that Ashley can wear it now as a summer top, and still wear it into the fall and winter with a long sleeved shirt underneath it.<br />
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The pattern is a Butterick See&Sew, pattern #3889. <br />
I made the short top, but you can also make the cute dress. Again, it can be worn in the colder months with the addition of a shirt underneath it.<br />
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I really think the owls are cute!<br />
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If you make this top, I do advise measuring the length of your child's torso because this actually is a little shorter than I thought it would be.<br />
Next time I will lengthen it a little, something that is super easy to do.<br />
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I really am having fun getting back into sewing. My daughter Megan just bought her very first sewing machine, so I'm excited to see what projects she starts sewing too.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-77125923018310737402013-08-26T08:42:00.002-07:002013-08-26T08:42:31.850-07:00Weekend In Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The weather in the Seattle area is still gorgeous, and this weekend we took advantage of it. My daughters and I had some lunch at Pegasus, went to some great estate sales on Bainbridge Island, and saw the new Woody Allen movie, Blue Jasmine. <br />
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I know the weather will be changing sooner or later, and Seattle does live up to it's rainy reputation.<br />
But for now, we are being thankful for those blue skies.<br />
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How was your weekend?<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-27931212686591730322013-08-22T09:16:00.000-07:002013-08-22T12:46:35.889-07:00From The Garden, Making Zucchini Parmesan Crisps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've really never been a huge fan of zucchini. I do love eating many kinds of veggies, but zucchini just never appealed to me. But that recently changed, and now I'm finding lots of different ways to cook with it.<br />
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These Zucchini Parmesan Crisps make a delicious snack or appetizer. We ate them with low calorie Ranch dressing with peppercorns, and there were requests for seconds. Next time I'll make a double batch.<br />
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The reason that I have begun to enjoy eating zucchini is because it is from our own garden. Having the garden this year, has opened my eyes to eating new foods, and ones I thought I wasn't very fond of. The zucchini will all be gone in a couple of weeks and I really will miss it.<br />
Of course I can buy it at the grocery store, but it just isn't the same as growing it yourself.<br />
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The only thing I had to buy for the crisps was the freshly grated parmesan cheese. I like buying it in small batches from a little grocery store nearby. I used Panko breadcrumbs, but you can use regular, too. And I'm a bit addicted to Johnny's Seasoning Salt right now, but you can also use regular seasoning salt if you want.<br />
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Making the crisps is a great way to use up zucchini that you have grown, or friends have given you from their gardens.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0R74ePIokFL3y9c2kEHjc26loxr6ipA6Qluh-nVxjER9l6jGNqYyq-Q3H-SBUnlEa0lboN2v1a4BIIUdqDx9RlVFnQO4XKk2EX_QTsyU-cD_Ghaf1NdzNUb6lRP6Q5QA_2cS_s4_I6ut/s1600/IMG_6608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0R74ePIokFL3y9c2kEHjc26loxr6ipA6Qluh-nVxjER9l6jGNqYyq-Q3H-SBUnlEa0lboN2v1a4BIIUdqDx9RlVFnQO4XKk2EX_QTsyU-cD_Ghaf1NdzNUb6lRP6Q5QA_2cS_s4_I6ut/s640/IMG_6608.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I do recommend baking them on a wire baking rack if you have one. I think it makes them taste better.<br />
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<strong>Recipe for Zucchini Parmesan Crisps</strong><br />
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<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
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cooking spray<br />
2 medium zucchini, about 1 pound total<br />
2 tablespoons olive oil<br />
1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan<br />
1/4 cup bread crumbs, Panko or regular<br />
1/2 teaspoon Johnny's seasoning salt, or regular seasoning salt<br />
1/8 teaspoon black pepper<br />
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<strong>Directions:</strong><br />
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray a baking sheet or wire rack with baking sheet underneath, with cooking spray.<br />
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Slice the zucchini into 1/4 inch thick rounds. In a medium bowl, toss the zucchini with the olive oil.<br />
In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, seasoning salt, and pepper.<br />
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Dip each round into the Parmesan mixture, coating evenly on both sides. Press mixture onto round if needed.<br />
Place on prepared baking sheet/rack in a single layer. Bake zucchini rounds until browned and crisp, about 25 minutes.<br />
Remove with spatula, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.<br />
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Eat and enjoy!!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04675502712179861617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647801958190825664.post-27355492096069392522013-08-21T09:51:00.000-07:002013-08-21T09:56:33.673-07:00Wordless Wednesday - Who's A Cool Guy?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTlk1DuNPNoR8_-RRu5VD6HqPBUCC7bKP1MXCoXT9U4GkWxxiA1wrRZKkJ6xXVujKoNPuvgilZQ0PpwfFfOIyJHlFMcQJoSjs0FjNb2BRpN6mUE_EfKzt1Sy_zUyIYMezHRnNGOqLpP_a/s1600/DSCN3785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTlk1DuNPNoR8_-RRu5VD6HqPBUCC7bKP1MXCoXT9U4GkWxxiA1wrRZKkJ6xXVujKoNPuvgilZQ0PpwfFfOIyJHlFMcQJoSjs0FjNb2BRpN6mUE_EfKzt1Sy_zUyIYMezHRnNGOqLpP_a/s640/DSCN3785.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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