Notes from the Homestead

Simply Sweet Giveaway

2011-05-23T14:33:00.001-07:00

Is this not the sweetest spring/summer stack of darling boxes?? Well, swing on over to Tammy's blog and enter her giveaway celebrating 700 followers! Wow Tammy, that's cool! Thank's for having such a fun giveaway!!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

2011-03-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, Does anyone remember me?? Well, I have been following all of you...I just have been a very bad girl about updating my blog. I have so enjoyed all of your great posts, and you have inspired me to try and get back into the swing of posting! Thank you!!!!! Here is what's baking at our home today! Yummy Irish Soda Bread!

Amazingly Easy Irish Soda Bread

4 C. Flour

4 T. White Sugar

1 t. Baking Soda

1 T. Baking Powder

1/2 t. salt

1/2 Cup margarine, softened

1 Cup Buttermilk

1 Egg

1/4 C. Butter Melted

1/4 Cup Buttermilk

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease a large baking sheet.

2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and margarine. Stir in 1 Cup of buttermilk and the egg. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead slightly. Form dough into a round and place on prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine melted butter with 1/4 C. buttermilk. brush loaf with this mixture. Use a sharp knife to cut an "X" into the top of the loaf.

3. Bake in preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. You may continue to brush the loaf with the butter mixture while it bakes! Mmmmmm!

I hope you all find a pot of gold under your rainbow today!!!!

Irish Blessings,

Kim

What a Friend Means....

2010-12-02T16:59:00.000-08:00

a friend is a laugh, a wink an inside joke.
a friend is loving you for who you truly are.
a friend is someone who always has your back, no matter what!
a friend is there in good times and in bad.
a friend is someone that has made their way to your heart

THANK YOU MY SWEET FRIENDS!!! YOU MEAN THE WORLD TO ME!!!!

~Kim

HELP! I can't fix my template

2010-09-20T07:38:00.000-07:00

Do any of you know how to change or fix my blog template or format to work with all the neat, fun backgrounds? None of the "new Blogger free Templates" seem to work and I cannot get my old layout back.... I need help!! If you do or have had the same problem, please, please leave me a comment!

Gee, this is embarrassing!!!! AND, I promise to be back soon with fun pictures and more recipes!

Thank you for any help peeps!!!!

Until next time,

Warm Blessings from Kim

Autumn is in the air!

2010-09-17T07:20:00.000-07:00

Hello and happy Friday Blogger friends!!
I have been away for so long, I forgot how to post! I am not liking my new blogger template, it threw a monkey wrench in my new background!

I have been peeking in on all of you from time to time and LOVING all the fall inspiration. I am in the process of taking some photos to share with you of our home and will try to get those up on the blog this weekend!

What have you all been up to?? Anyone taking any fun fall leaf trips, going to pick apples?? Maybe a craft show or two or three?

I do have a great new recipe I just tried for you all to test out. I LOVE, LOVE one pot healthy meals! This one is just great and is packed with good stuff to warm you to your toes on the chilly nights ahead.

Hope you enjoy it, let me know if anyone tries it out!

TUSCAN CHICKEN AND BEANS

Olive Oil
1 lb. chicken breast, cut into pieces
1 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed or 2 t. chopped fresh
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. fresh ground pepper
1 cup chicken broth or stock
1 16 oz can of cannellini beans, drained
2 TBSP sun-dried tomato flakes

To Make:
Lightly coat and heat a large nonstick skillet with olive oil. Add the chicken, sprinkle in the rosemary, salt and pepper. Stir fry for about 2 minutes. Add the broth or stock, beans and tomato sprinkles to skillet, bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, 8 minutes or until chicken is done and sauce reduces down.

* I serve this over rice and it is YUMMY!

Well, that's about it girls. I hope you all have a joyful Friday and Fall-Fun filled Weekend!

Until next time,
Warm blessings from Kim

Cool drink for a warm Memorial Day weekend!

2010-05-26T13:30:00.000-07:00

I just HAD to post this recipe! I have been looking and looking for a fun and festive cool drink for summer entertaining. Or, to just enjoy on your deck with your hubby.. wink,wink! This is what I came up with! Let me know if any of you try it! Yummmo!

WATERMELON VOKDA SLUSH

what you will need: 4 cups watermelon, blended in the blender, seeds removed

2 oz. lemonade concentrate in the can, thawed

2 T. lemon juice

1 c. vodka (optional)

2 oz. melon liqueur

lemon zest to garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Pour the blended and pureed watermelon into empty ice cube trays and freeze.

In the blender, combine the frozen watermelon cubes, lemonade concentrate, lemon juice, vodka, and melon liqueur; blend until smooth. Pour into 4 martini glasses and garnish each with a sprinkle of lemon zest. note: I froze the glasses before hand too. the drinks stayed colder and firmer longer. :)

Now, you can make this a "PG" drink by omitting the vodka, of course! But, after a hot day of entertaining the relatives... you may need that vodka, Ha! Have a great weekend ladies!!!

Just a little hello

2010-04-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

Hi friends and blog family!

I have been following all of your great posts lately and trying to get to each of you and leave a comment here and there. Not much new here. I am debating on taking a job with Southern Living. What a scary step after being home with the kids for 12 years now.

Hope you are all doing well! Toodles for now.

~Kim

Spring Greetings!

2010-03-22T07:44:00.000-07:00

Good Monday Morning!

I know I have been gone for a loooong time. We have had so many challenges in our life lately. Our youngest son Nicholas is having hearing difficulty and it has been difficult to get things organized for him at school with his new "ears". I am blessed to have a wonderful caring community, but public schools can be tough and not very accommodating. (surprisingly)! We have also had a ton of sinus/ear infections and illnesses in general between the four kiddos.

How have you all been? I hope you are all healthy and doing well! I have gotten some really nice e-mails from my blog buddy Colleen. Thank you so much for keeping me in your thoughts my friend! It really warms my heart!! I hope to be on again posting very soon. Thanks for checking in with me!

Blessings,
Kim

Grab a cup of coffee...Lots of show and tell !!!

2010-02-01T14:42:00.001-08:00

Well.. I have to say I have been showered with gifts lately!! I want to share some birthday gifts from hubby and the kids first...

This is a beautiful hooked runner they got me! It looks perfect on the center island in the kitchen! I just love the warm colors in it!!
Next, is this darling salt box pillow!! It always amazes me what Jon and the kids pick out. The boys said they got this because it looks like OUR house. (We recently painted it red.) So cute!

They also got me this Paula Deen enameled pot. It is really big and PERFECT for soup and chilli! Thank you Jon and kiddos! I had a great birthday!!

Next up is a special ring my friend Jennifer gave me. It's hard to see in the picture, but it came with the most wonderful saying. "Whenever you wear this ring, know that you are loved just the way you are"... Awwwww, puts tears in my eyes! She also took me out for lunch at Truffles & Tortes in Anoka. We had a wonderful time! Thanks Jen!!

This adorable doll was HAND MADE for me by my friend Renee!!! She is so cute and notice the clothespin hands and sweet face. She came with a prim pumpkin to hold in fall time, but I switched it out for Valentines Day and added a heart. She is such a talented girl! I love it Renee!!!

Here we have a wonderful surprise from Maine!! My blog buddy Colleen sent me these WONDERFUL salt dough sweethearts and wintertime bowl fillers.... also in the box was some yummy chocolates, a great smelling Yankee votive and a sweet card! she makes THE BEST salt dough goodies! How lucky I am to have met her! I was so taken back by her kind surprise package in the mail!!!! Thank you my friend!! P.S. If you want to know how to make these adorable salt dough bowl fillers, visit her blog at www.andbabymakesfive.blogspot !! She has great tutorials for you!! (scroll down to see how I displayed my new goodies!!)

My friend Nicole gave me this cute heart votive and a great assortment of candles to go with it! She invited me over and surprised me with a wonderful birthday dessert too! You are so sweet Nicole!!

When I think of you all, my heart swells with gratitude for you and your friendship and love! I am truly blessed!!!!

Thanks for visiting, I'll be back for Whatchya Workin on Wednesday. I will have a ticking stripe cupboard curtain that I am working on!

Blessings,

~Kim

Door County Cherry Muffins

2010-01-29T11:56:00.001-08:00

Door County Cherry Muffins - courtesy of the White Lace Inn Bed and Breakfast

*Oh my... if you haven't been to Door County, WI you must visit someday!

This is a haven filled with Wonderful Bed and Breakfasts, antiques , wineries and quaint shops! They are known for their cherries and have several orchards on the peninsula!

*ingredients:

4 cups flour

2 cups sugar

2 T. baking powder

1 T. cinnamon

3 cups frozen and rinsed cherries

1 cup butter (melted)

1 cup milk

4 eggs

1 t.vanilla

TOPPPING:

1 cup flour

1/3 cup butter

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 t. cinnamon

~~~~~ Steps:

1. preheat oven to 425 degrees

2. combine dry ingredients and blend. In a sep. bowl, toss 1 tbs. or dry ingredients with the cherries.

3. In a large bowl, mix butter, milk, eggs and vanilla. Then add dry ing. and stir until well moistened. Stir in the cherries.

4. spoon batter into muffin tins to about 3/4 full and sprinkle with topping mixture. Bake at 425 degrees for 15-18 minutes. Makes about 2 dozen muffins.

Watchya Workin On Wednesday

2010-01-27T07:54:00.001-08:00

XXX TICKING STRIPE GRUNGY PRIM CINNAMON HEART GARLAND TUTORIAL OOO
Happy Wednesday everyone! I have a fun little prim garland that I whipped up. It is super easy and smells heavenly too! I used some scrap ticking stripe and waverly floral fabric along with some homespun to make "patches" on the hearts. They didn't show up so well in the photo, but I basically just "ripped" the homespun into small square shaped "patches" and attached them to my finished hearts with heat-n-bond.

Get your supplies ready

You will need:

Fabric Scraps

Pinking Shears

Heat and Bond

Twine or Ribbon

Cinnamon

Double Strength Brewed Tea

or Coffee

Glue Gun

Cut out desired size hearts from the scrap fabric with your pinking shears. Don't worry about them being perfect, after all they are "handmade"! Soak your heart cut-outs in double strength

tea until desired look. This gives them a nice prim

aged look and allows the cinnamon to stick.

Sprinkle your damp hearts generously with cinnamon. I put

mine on parchment paper and then let them dry overnight.

Glue your cinnamon hearts to a twine or ribbon. I

also added some "patches" from torn homespun by

using my heat and bond. (follow the directions on the package) I hope you have fun making these, I sure did! My camera is on the fritz, so I will post my "show and tell" later in the week when I can download my recent photos. As always, thanks for stopping by!

~Kim

GIVEAWAY RESULTS!!!!

2010-01-25T12:50:00.000-08:00

Good Monday Afternoon!! Here are the results of my very first giveaway....
Drum roll Please...... The winner is "AND BABY MAKES FIVE"!!!! Congratulations to you! Your package will be on it's way and so will a check to the American Red Cross for $45.00!!! Thank you everyone!! This has been a fun thing for me and it warms my heart reading all of your great entries and comments!! I will be doing it again in the near future!! I am off to my fifty foot tall pile of laundry now, but I will be back for "Watcha Workin On Wednesday"! I will have a fun grungy cinnamon heart garland tutorial for you and some "show and tell" too!! Have a great day

~Kim

ONE MORE DAY TO REGISTER FOR THE GIVEAWAY!

2010-01-24T14:05:00.000-08:00

Hello All! There is one more day left to register for my Valentine's giveaway! Thank you to everyone that has signed up thus far! We are up to $42.00 last time I checked for the Red Cross!! Wow! See what a little blog can do for a great cause! I will post the results tomorrow! Thanks again everyone!!!!! Have a great day and GO VIKINGS!!!!!
~Kim

Valentine Giveaway with a twist of kindness.....
scroll down for all the details!!!

Giveaway with a Twist of Kindness

2010-01-15T14:35:00.000-08:00

TA-DA! Here it is!!!!!! SIGN UP TO WIN, AND HELP HAITI TOO!

Here is what you get: A painted Valentine's Day sign, ADORABLE stitched heart, a FAB Banana Nut Bread can candle from A Primitive Glow (DEVINE!!), A Rabbit Creek Microwave Fudge mix, A sweet floursack towel with Valentine's sentiments AND you get the woven burgundy and cream mat underneath!!!!

Now here is the twist: For every person who enters, we will donate $1.00 to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund for Haiti!!!! Here are the rules to enter:

1. You must be a follower of my blog (so sign up!)

2. You must advertise my giveaway on YOUR blog

3. Please leave me a comment stating you want
to be entered!

That's it! Easy, Peasey!! I will be doing the random drawing on January 25th, so get entered and help the Red Cross too!!! Good luck ladies!

For more information on how you can donate to help the people of Haiti go to:

http://www.redcross.org/

Thank you to ALL who enter! I will post the results on January 25th! Scroll down for my awesome Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding Recipe for today's Swap and visit my friend Colleen for more recipes and fun at "And baby makes five"!!

Blessings,

Kim

Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding

(a Food Network Recipe)

Ingredients:

4-6 day old croissants (I know, who lets 'em sit for a day before they are all eaten!!)

2 Cups half and half

2 Cups heavy cream

Pinch of Salt

4 Oz. semisweet or bittersweet choc. chopped

(I used Bakers brand bittersweet)

6 Eggs

1 Cup sugar

Whipping Cream to top.

To Make:

Cut croissants into 1 inch squares and place in a baking dish

Then, in a saucepan, heat the half and half, cream, and salt over med.

heat, stirring occasionally to make sure the mixture does not burn

or stick. When the cream mixture reaches a fast simmer (do not

let boil *) turn off the heat and add the chocolate and whisk until melted.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together. Whisking constantly, gradually

add the hot chocolate-cream mixture. Pour mixture over the croissant pieces and gently toss

to coat. Leave "soak" for 15 minutes. As it soaks, fold the mixture a few times

to ensure even soaking.

When ready to bake, heat the oven to 350 degrees.

Line a roasting pan that is 2 inches deep (at least) and larger than the

baking dish you used with paper towels. Fill the pan with

very hot water and place the dish of bread pudding inside. Bake

until set, about 40-45 min. Serve warm with whipping cream.

GIVEAWAY UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

2010-01-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

Hi ladies! Hold on to your mouse-pads and stop back later today... I am unveiling an unbelievable January GIVEAWAY!! It has a twist that includes a little random act of kindness and some WONDERFUL goodies! Also, I will have a new recipe for our swap! See you back here later this afternoon....
Toodles for now!
~Kim

It's Recipe Time!!

2010-01-08T07:13:00.000-08:00

Good Friday Morning All!!

Boy oh Boy is it ffffffreeeezing here in Minnesota this morning! It is currently -18 out there. Yes, that is a minus in front of the eighteen! Because it's so nippy I thought I would post a couple of "warm the body and soul" recipes for you to try out! Remember to click on the link at the right of this post and join Colleen from And Baby Makes Five in her weekly recipe swap! It's fun and there are loads of great recipes to try out!

My last post was talking about random acts of kindness, and boy do I have one to share with you all! My sweet friend Kindra (check out her amazing blog at Three guys, a girl and a prim place) sent me this ADORABLE block set she MADE! Yes, she MADE them! Just for me! I love them Kindra, and they are just perfect for perking up the house after putting away all my Christmas decor. Thank you so much for brightening up my day and my heart!!!

Yummy Cream Cheese Croissants

2 pkg. Crescent Rolls

FILLING:

2 (8oz) Cream Cheese

1 C. Sugar

1 tsp. Vanilla

1 Egg Yolk

TOPPING:

1/3 c. Sugar

1/2 c. Chopped Walnuts

1 Egg White

* Grease a 9 X 13 inch pan. Mix filling well and set aside.

Spread 1 package of the crescents to cover bottom of

pan and pinch seams. Spread filling to cover. Stretch and

pull other package of rolls to cover top of filling. Beat

egg white until frothy, spread over crust. Sprinkle with 1/3

cup sugar and nuts. Bake at 350 degrees for

25-30 minutes until light brown.

Gram Saeger's Smothered Chicken

3 to 4 lbs. Chicken

1 c. All-purpose flour

Salt and Pepper to taste

1/2 c. Margarine

2.1-oz Env. Chicken Noodle

Soup Mix

10-3/4 oz. Can Cream of

Mushroom Soup

12-oz. Can Evaporated Milk

1 t. Poultry Seasoning

1/2 t. Dried Parsley

* Dredge chicken pieces in flour; sprinkle with salt and

pepper. Melt margarine in a large skillet over medium heat.

Fry chicken until golden on both sides; transfer to a greased

13"X9" baking pan. Sprinkle with soup mix; pour mushroom soup

over top. Combine evaporated milk,seasoning and parsley

in a small saucepan over medium heat; heat through without

boiling. Pour over chicken.

Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Serves 4

Mmmmmmmmm!!!

Random Acts of Kindness

2010-01-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year All!

I hope everyone has wound down from the hustle and bustle of the holidays. I know it's cold out there and we are now cooped up for a long winter. So, I thought I would tell you all about my New Year's resolution ( yes, I am a little late, but bear with me please) I have thought long and hard about what it should be. Like everyone, I have lots of things I'd like to change and loads of projects I should be working on, BUT.. what is truly important in life?? An organized closet, a little weight loss perhaps?? Not really. What is truly important in my opinion is the lessons we teach our children about the life we lead and the type of person we are. This leads me to my resolution. If we ALL just looked for the good in people, if we All just tried to understand anothers hardships, if we ALL had sympathy for others, the world would be better. It would teach our children that people ARE good. I pledge for the New Year to be kind to others, to put myself in other peoples shoes and to just do good!

I know it seems small and sort of silly, but I will do my best to adhere to my plan. I hope you all will join me in doing a little kind deed for someone else when they least expect it. I think it will make us all happier! I'll see you all back here on Friday for a great recipe and a little "lighter" post! Have a great day everyone!!
~Kim

Big Bear Ski Trip!!

2009-12-22T22:34:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! Here are a few photos

from the ski trip last week!

It was a memorable trip right

from the start... flying into a

huge storm that left 3 feet of

snow in the mountains. Scary!!

Once we arrived after a rocky

flight, we drove up the mountains

from Palm Springs, CA. We

arrived at the Northwoods Resort

at Big Bear Mountain after

about a two hour drive.

What a fun time had by all!

Spencer, Gannon and Nick

went to ski school, and Andrew

was already a "pro"... so he

and Dad headed up the double

black diamond runs! YIKES!

I on the other hand, knowing

I had an upcoming surgery...

opted to stay at the bottom

of the hill and watch the ski school!

Have a warm and toasty Holiday

everyone! We are expecting a

huge Christmas blizzard! The

boys are thrilled with that news!!

Winter Blessings to you all!!

~Kim

Doing Well! Thanks for asking!!

2009-12-19T19:10:00.000-08:00

The surgery went well! Thank you soooo much for all your calls, e-mails and gifts of love, meals and flowers!! I am so very blessed to have such a wonderful family and friends!

I am still on a ton of meds, so not quite up to par, but I know it will be a great Christmas despite this set-back and that I will be healthier because of the surgery!

I wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and will post again soon with pics from our ski trip just as soon as I'm feelin a little better.

Hugs,
Kim

Check This Out!!

2009-12-05T09:48:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I just had to show you my little project today. I found this idea on a link from Today's Creative Blog for ribbon trees. It turned out really cute I think! I added an antique tea cup base to make it more like a little sweet topiary! Now.... who to give it to for Christmas?? I think I may have to make a couple more!

Have a great weekend!! Wish me luck on the ski hill! I am a serious klutz!!

~Kim

The Elves Have Been Busy Around Here...wink,wink!

2009-12-03T05:46:00.001-08:00

T.G.I.F !!

How are you all doing today? I am, uh, I mean
the Elves have been busy decorating,
wrapping and making gifts at
my house!! I posted more photos
of the holly jolly-ness around
our home due to lots of requests
to do so! Thanks for caring
everyone!

AND It's Recipe Swap Day!!!
I have a great Cinnamon Latte
mix in a jar recipe posted after the photos
for you guys to make for all your
teachers, neighbors and anyone
else who likes warm rich coffee!
Who wouldn't right? Simply
Scroll down past the pics and it's there!
I put the mix in a cute vintage jar
and tied some sparkle ribbon on it.
They really take all of about
five minutes to make, so it's
a great snappy little gift to whip
up for someone!

Enjoy the photos and have a wonderful
weekend! My family and I are heading
off for a much needed vacation with our
family in California! We are going skiing
at Big Bear Lake. The boys are sure
excited!!! Can't wait to see my sis and my
two adorable nephews!

I'll be back next week! Take care
all!!!

~Kim

CINNAMON LATTE MIX IN A JAR

2 small jars cinnamon flavor coffee mate powder

1 small jar french vanilla coffee mate powder

3/4 powdered coffee creamer

1 c. powdered sugar

1 c.powdered dry milk

1/2 C. dry instant coffee granules

* simple: just dump all into a huge bowl and give it a good mix. This makes a lot. About 6 cups worth. I then used a kitchen funnel to put into my jars.

Note: Don't forget to add a little tag to your gift jar telling them how to make their yummy

coffee: * Add 3 heaping tsp. to a mug of steaming hot water and stir!!

Merry December!

2009-12-01T15:36:00.001-08:00

Merry December everyone!! I bet everyone is starting to get their jingle on and their homes ready for the holidays... aren't you? Well, I've been gradually adding Christmas decor daily. I keep finding little "spots" that need to be decorated. Here is my mantle (for now anyways) I have a new garland that I made this year. I followed Colleens Rag Tied Garland Tutorial on her blog "And Baby Makes Five".....here is the result... Ta Da!!!! What do ya think? I made one for my BFF too and she really loves it. She has tons of great ideas on there!! Thanks Colleen!! I just whipped these up in no time for gifts too! My youngest son Nicholas wants one with Spiderman fabric for above his window in his room. :)

Here's a closer look.

Do you still believe?? My oldest is fourteen and I told him that if he even so much as "breathes" that Santa isn't real, the consequences are grand!!!

More Christmas decor from around the house. Have you all finished your "be-decking" yet? As my friend Colleen put it... "It's hard to get anything decorated with kids and the hubs underfoot!!" I soooo agree Colleen!

Here is my "sheep" which I have out year round. The "joy" swag is always a favorite of mine. Given to me by a great friend.:)

Well, today is going to be short and sweet, but I hope to get a good recipe up on here for the Homemade Holiday Swap on Friday and some more photos. I have THE CUTEST set of winter blocks that my friend Kindra made for me. They are in my dining room. That's next to be photographed. I'm just waiting to get the tree trimmed in there before I show ya! If you haven't checked out Kindra's Blog.. you must!!!! Visit her at "3 guys, a girl and a prim place.blogspot" You will leave inspired!!!I have a fun wine tasting party to go to on Saturday, and I really need a good recipe for dip to bring. Any suggestions ladies??? I'm tired of making hot artichoke dip! I need something creative!!!

~Kim

Is Everybody Stuffed??

2009-11-27T19:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Black Friday Everyone!!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We sure did!

Here are some photos of our special day. I wish I had snapped a few of the boys, but they were so busy running around and playing that they were all doing their own thing and really didn't want me stopping them for photos! It's Homemade Holiday Recipe day! Boy do I have a sinful one for you today! See below for my "FA, LA, LA FUDGE PUDDING CAKE" ! It is scrumptious and easy too!

Above is the "kids" table. I made this turkey
out of fruit and cheese and few wood

skewers. It turned out cute don't ya think?

This is our dog Lily and our friend's dog

Jersey. They had fun racing around

the house and having a little "taste"

of turkey. :)

This is me and my dear friend Jennifer. She

made an awesome stuffing and pumpkin

pies. Oh, let's not forget her Chutney!

D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S!

This is the "grown ups" table. I made the

apple cone centerpiece using a cone

shaped form with nails sticking out of

it. You just stick all the fruit on and

fill in with pine, bittersweet and walnuts!
I love the Colonial look of this!

Fa, La, La Fudge Pudding Cake

(Courtesy of Gooseberry Patch Holidays)

Ingredients:

1 Box Chocolate Cake Mix

3.9 oz. pkg instant Choc. Pudding Mix
2 C. Sour Cream (I know, sinful!!)

4 Eggs

1 C. Water

3/4 C. Oil

1/4 t. Salt

2. C. Semi Sweet Choc. Chips (whole bag!)

non-stick spray

whipped cream or ice cream (we had ice cream and it was super!)

* Combine all ingredients except the choc. chips in a large mixing bowl.

Beat for 2 minutes until well combined. Stir in Chocolate Chips. Spray a Slow Cooker with your non-stick spray and pour batter in. Cook on low for 5 hours. Serve right out of the crock pot by the scoopful with a dollop of whipping cream or scoop of ice cream. Heavenly!!!

Well, I am off to tuck kids in now, I will be back later in the week with a couple holiday decor photos and some pictures of the boys! Have a great weekend!!!

~Kim

A Prayer, A Craft, A Recipe and a Laugh

2009-11-20T11:10:00.000-08:00

Good Day Everyone!
I have lots to share with you all today. First of all I was recently informed that a sweet friend of Spencer and Gannon's was diagnosed with Leukemia. The boys took it hard and have been asking a lot of questions. Mostly "why"? I wonder that myself!! After reassuring them quite a bit that God is watching over Abby and that she is getting great care at Children's Hospital, we came up with a little prayer just for Abby. It goes like this... "God bless her laugh, God bless her smile. Watch over her now, and for a long while!" So Abby, if you read this.. we are all hoping you feel better soon!!

Now, on a lighter note, I have a FUN Thanksgiving "Kids Table" craft project for you all! These cute, cute Pilgrim Photo Napkin Rings. Are they not hilarious!! They are a surprise for my boys and the wonderful Woolfolk boys who will be joining us this year. (Seven kids in all!) They are a snap to make, and really inexpensive. Both things I look for in a craft project!!

You will need:
Black card stock or construction paper
White paper
Photo of your child
Scissors
Glue Stick
Stapler

First cut a 2" X 7" strip of the black paper.
Then cut a 1/2" X 7" strip of the white paper.
Notch a "V" in the white paper and glue it to the
top portion of the black strip.

Next, cut out the head part of your child's photo.
glue the head to the top of the strip just above
the "V" notch. (the collar) Then, make a pilgrimish type hat out of the black. Cut a small
white strip for the hat and a small square piece of black to make the hat's "buckle". Glue the hat
in place on the head portion of the photo.

Allow the glue to dry a bit and then come back
and "curl" the strip to form a ring and staple
in place. Slide a napkin through the ring and ta-da!!
You are done! I added some pine and bittersweet sprigs
to make it festive. Now that is easy peasy!!!

Next up is my HOMEMADE HOLIDAY RECIPE SWAP!!
Since Thanksgiving is coming up so soon, I decided on a cranberry chutney that
is a cinch to whip up! This is great on pork or turkey and even better spread on
a block of cream cheese and served with crackers! Great for hostess gifts in a
pretty jar!!!

HOLIDAY CRANBERRY CHUTNEY

1 C. Fresh Orange Sections

1/4 C. Orange Juice

4 C. Fresh
Cranberries

2 1/4 C. Sugar

1 C. Chopped unpeeled apple

1/2 C. Golden Raisins

1/4 C. Chopped Walnuts

1 Tbsp. Vinegar

1/2 Tsp. Ground Ginger

1 tsp. Ground Cinnamon

TO MAKE:

Throw everything in a large sauce pan and
bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer
5 minutes or until berried begin to "pop"
Chill until serving time.

This colorful sweet chutney stores great in the
refrigerator for up to 2 weeks! Makes 5 Cups.

Now, for the laugh!! Today I went to my youngest son Nick's
first grade "Feast" at Twin Lakes Elementary. They
had a long "Table" made out of brown paper running the
whole length of the hallway outside the classrooms. They
feasted on carrots, corn (puff corn), craisins, pumpkin pie
and cucumbers! They made costumes too! (this is the funny part)
Nick got to make a Native American Costume. Some kids were Pilgrim
boys and girls too. Well, Nick decided that he didn't want to be a
Native American, because he thought that the Pilgrim costumes were
"cooler." So... he decided to run back in the classroom and make a "new"
costume. He came back out with a Pilgrim Hat, a Native American "Smock" and
an apron. He said "look at me, I'm a Native Pilgrim American!" No one laughed but me of course. It was a fun time, and all the kids enjoyed sitting all together in the hall. Thanks Mrs.
Osterman!!

In keeping with the "Gratitude Attitude Challenge" my thoughts are simple.
I am thankful for funny moments like the ones today, messy pumpkin pie faces,
and for the gift of being a Mom!

Thank you for all your recipes, crafts, fun stories and photos! I am
truly inspired by you all everyday! Enjoy the weekend, and I will be back
on Wednesday with another recipe and a fun centerpiece for your Thanksgiving
table! Take Care!

Silhouette Tutorial

2009-11-12T15:45:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone! Today I have a great little tutorial and Slow cooker sloppy joes! Mmmmmmm!

See below for the recipe. They are easy, hot, and yummy!!

With the holidays inching closer, I have been busy doing projects while I have a little bit of extra time. AND I thought, gee... I have to catch up to Colleen , Kindra and Grammy Linda with all their SUPER tutorials! Thanks ladies for the inspiration!!! I made these neat silhouettes of the boys over the weekend. They are very inexpensive and relatively easy to make!! Follow along for some simple instructions.

You will need:

Side view photo (I used a 5X7)
Sharp smaller scissors
Heavy black cardstock
White or ivory cardstock
Frame of your choosing
#2 pencil
Double face tape or scrapbooking Paper adhesive

step 1: Cut out the side view photo CAREFULLY with your sharp scissors.

step 2: Trace the cutout photo outline onto the black cardstock with your #2 pencil. Don't worry, it WILL show up on the black!

step 3: CAREFULLY cut the traced outline out.

step 4: Put several strips of double faced tape or scrapbooking paper adhesive to the back of your silhouette and center it onto a piece of the white or ivory cardstock.

step 5: Put your finished silhouette into your frame. I added an ivory ribbon hanger too!

See how easy that was? They turn out very old fashioned looking and cute!

Here is my Friday Recipe for the Holiday Swap, ENJOY!!

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

1-1/2 lbs. ground beef
1 onion, chopped finely
1 clove garlic, minced
3/4 c. catsup
1/2 c water
1 T. brown sugar
2 T. mustard
2 T. vinegar
2 T. Worcestershire
1-1/2 T chili powder
1can kidney beans
6-8 toasted buns
1cup shredded cheese for topping

* Brown ground beef with onion and garlic, drain and set aside. Combine all remaining ingredients except for cheese in a slow cooker, stir in beef mixture and cook on low setting for 6 hours or on high setting for 3-4 hours. Spoon onto toasted buns. Top with shredded cheese if desired.

Gratitude Attitude abounds me today! I am thankful for these four beautiful boys in the silhouettes above, the inspiration I have found in others as of lately and for the bounty of friends who will share our Thanksgiving feast this season. May you find your blessings plentiful, and your tummies full this Thanksgiving!! Until next time, thanks for stopping by my friends!

Holiday Recipe Swap Starts Today!!!

2009-11-06T07:22:00.001-08:00

Happy Friday Peeps!!

I am joining my new friend Colleen from "and baby makes five" in doing a fun Holiday Recipe Swap! It starts today, so be sure to click on the link at the right of this post to visit her blog! She has wonderful craft tutorials and a lovely home as well as more great recipes for you to check out! Each Friday, there will be new ones posted! Thanks Colleen for starting the fun! I am always on the lookout for new simple recipes to try especially this time of year!

I have a great cheese ball recipe for you to try today. I am sorry that I don't have a picture of it. In the future, I will try to have photos along with the recipe. :) This is a great one to bring to an ornament exchange, or to make when those wonderful friends stop by over the holiday season. I hope you like it!

Today I am thankful for making new friends through my blog, the fresh autumn air coming in through a crack in my kitchen window, and for the ability to laugh at myself. If not for that, life would just be tougher!!

Mint Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball

You will need:
12 oz Package mini semi sweet choc. chips
12 oz Package peppermint candies crushed
(great way to take out your stress, simply place in a tightly sealed freezer bag and pound away - ha!)
8 oz Package cream cheese, softened
1 C. Chopped pecans
Chocolate sugar wafers

*Blend chocolate chips, peppermint candies and cream cheese together: roll in pecans and serve with chocolate sugar wafers
makes 2-1/2 cups

Trick-R-Treat From Our Home To Yours

2009-11-03T07:30:00.001-08:00

The night air was calm and crisp and our house was all aglow with Halloween excitement!! Lily the Westie was at the ready! She loves to greet the trick-r-treaters every year. You can't see it, but she has a "jingle-jangle" collar with ghosts and pumpkins on it! She was sooo cute! Each year we get over 200 kids at our home for tricks and treats! Andrew was Ozzy Osbourne this year, as you can tell by the hair, Nick and Gannon were army men and Spencer was a ghastly ghoul!! They all had loads of fun carving pumpkins too!

Today I am thankful for my family's good health, my wonderful good friends who are with me through thick and thin and the fact that we are able to pay our bills and have a little bit extra each month for a night out with my wonderful husband!

Oops! Someone got caught with their "paw" in the candy bowl!! Here is Lily with a Milk Duds box stuck on her foot! She wanted a treat too, but NO chocolate for doggies Lily!! HILARIOUS!

OK, here is a FABULOUS recipe to try during these chilly days!! (courtesy of Gooseberry Patch Harvest Kitchen Cookbook!) They are simply d-licious!

Prairie Praline Muffins

3 T brown sugar, packed

1 T butter, softened

1/3 C. chopped pecans

3 ripe bananas

1 egg, beaten

1/2 C. sugar

1/4 C. oil

1-1/2 C. pancake mix

* Stir together brown sugar and butter in a small bowl; add pecans and set aside. In a separate bowl, mash bananas and stir in egg, sugar and oil until well blended. Add pancake mix; stir just until moistened. Fill greased muffin cups 2/3 full. Drop one teaspoon of the pecan mixture on top of each muffin. Bake at 350 degrees for 11-13 minutes, until lightly golden. Makes one dozen. Mmmmmm!

All I want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth!!

2009-10-19T18:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday everyone! We are awaiting the infamous Tooth Fairy at our house! Nick lost both of his front teeth over the weekend! He was so brave when Daddy pulled them out! They were literally "hanging by a thread" and it was so hard for him to eat! It was definitely time for them to come out! He is getting soooo grown up!

I hosted book club at my house on Thursday night! We chose the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Have any of you read that?? It looks really neat. It's written all in letter format. Very Different! My sweet friend Jennifer brought me this pumpkin when she came. It's very "Martha Stewart" she painted the stem and added lots of really fine silver glitter. I just love the way it shimmers!! Thanks Jen!

I finally finished decking the house for the season. Here are a few photos of "autumn around our home." I have really loved seeing all of your homes on your blogs too! Before we know it, this lovely time of year will be all but a memory... covered in snow! I plan to enjoy every minute of it!

This cool pumpkin hooked rug is from Christine at Buttermilk Junction! If you have time, check out her shop! She is a sweetie!! I just love the colors in it. http://www.buttermilkjunction.com/.

I got this idea from an old Country Living Magazine from a couple of years back. I had this large glass jar and wanted to do something with it. It was inexpensive and I think I can change it our for Christmas by adding some "snow" or holiday rose hips and a Christmas candle. Or, maybe some pine boughs and berries... What do you think?

This is an old sap bucket with a pumpkin face cut out. I got it a few years ago at a local shop called the "Vintage Cupboard" they are no longer in business, and I miss shopping there! Girls, you need to re-open again! Hint, Hint!! I love this and put it out every year.

More autumn photos.....

Baaaaaa!

My Halloween tree! The boys love this!!

Well, that's all I have to share today. Thanks for stopping in for a visit! Oh, by the way... I am having trouble leaving comments on some of your blogs. I want you to know that I have really tried to visit you all, but can't leave you a note! Darn Blogger! I have decided to take part in the Gratitude Attitude Challenge from Mercy's Blog. Today I am thankful for warm little hands to hold on a cold autumn day, a fuzzy little dog by my feet and the great joy blogging has brought me! Have a good week peeps!

Antiques, Inns, Harbors and Vineyards!!

2009-10-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

Wow! Door County was LOVELY! I have posted some pictures of my recent trip to Door County Wisconsin. I have wanted to go there for many, many years and finally did! My dear friend Pat and I left the guys at home and headed out for a week long adventure! If you have never been to Door County, you must go! When you drive into the peninsula you go through little "villages" that are reminiscent of New England towns. It is surrounded by water. Green Bay on one side and Lake Michigan on the other. The leaves were turning and the small villages had fall festivals and autumn decor galore! Every inch of Door County is cute and decorated for the season!!! The first three pictures are of the Black Smith Inn on the Shore in Bailey's Harbor. It was wonderful and very Early American/Colonial. All of the rooms had balconies that looked out onto Lake Michigan. Next we visited a wonderful Winery called Orchard Country Winery. The grapes were just about ready to be plucked from the vines! Gorgeous!! We took a tour and did a little tasting. Mmmmmm! They grow cherries and apples here too! Next you will see Lake Michigan and some white caps! It was windy our last day in town. Following that is the Inn at Cedar Crossing in Sturgeon Bay. This is a historic Bed and Breakfast right down town Sturgeon Bay. The room had a wonderful wood archway leading to a lovely bed and it was filled with wonderful antiques! We had a great home made breakfast here too! Next is the Harbor House Inn at Gills Rock. This was a spectacular Scandinavian inspired Inn overlooking Green Bay! The Innkeepers quarters are in the "lighthouse" home! Very cute! I hope you enjoy the photos and stay warm! We have had Christmas in October here in Minnesota. About three inches of snow fell today! Thanks for stopping in!

Love from Nebraska Arrives!

2009-09-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

Well, what a sweet surprise I received in the mail yesterday! My dear friend Kindra made me these Fall and Wynter Block sets! Aren't they the cutest? I am so lucky to have such a sweet and talented friend! Thank you again Kindra... you warmed my heart! You must go visit Kindra at 3guys,agirl and a prim place. blogspot! She has the best stories, photos, decorating and crafting ideas ever not to mention some super sweet little boys! Well, I must keep this post short, as I am heading to Door County, WI for a few days with my boys' godmom Pat! We have wanted to go for years, but I always hesitated to leave while the kids were too young. Well, they are all big boys now, all in school so it's time for us to go on an adventure! Check back with me next week, I will have loads of photos from the trip, our antiques and treasures along the way and some great pictures of the boys and Lily the Westie! Take care everyone and enjoy these fall days. Goodness knows we don't get enough of them.

These are sooooo cute! They love their new home here in Minnesota Kindra.. lol!

OMG! I made this granola today to take on our trip to Door County. It is fabulous!!! You can add whatever extras you want at the end, but I used dried cherries. I think that dried apricots or even chocolate chips would be Divine too! This is easy and I think this stuff is actually pretty good for you... bonus! lol

Goodness Gracious Granola

you will need the following:

1/4 cup water

3 cups rolled oats

1 cup whole almonds

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1/4 cup flax seeds

1/4 cup wheat germ

3/4 cup dried cherries or other fruit

3/4 cup honey

1/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed

3 tablespoons canola oil

pinch of salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon almond extract

To make:

In large bowl, combine oats, flax seeds, wheat germ, almonds, walnuts, cinnamon and salt. Toss together with a large wooden spoon. Next, in a small saucepan over med. high heat, bring the honey, brown sugar, canola oil, water and almond extract just to a boil, stirring as you go. While this is cooking, spread the oat mixture onto a lightly greased large cookie sheet with a lip around the edge. Pour the hot liquid over the oat mixture and toss to coat WELL. Bake in a 300 degree oven for 22-24 minutes stirring twice. Allow to cool completely and add the dried cherries. Store in an airtight container. Freezes nicely! Yummmmmm!

The Last Days of Summer

2009-08-26T15:39:00.000-07:00

Well, it's about that time of year again. The time when the kiddos head back to school and the nights are getting cooler. We have been enjoying the last of our bountiful tomato crop. I don't think I have ever eaten so much salsa in my life! I have posted some photos of the boys today. They are each such a blessing, and I am going to miss them filling the house with "boy noise" when the school bell rings. (can you tell I am emotional about it right now?) Andrew is heading off to his first year of High School and Spencer and Gannon will start the 5th grade this year. My little Nick is not so little and is beginning first grade... which means I will be all alone every day! Boo Hoo!!!! I am looking forward to planting some fall mums and putting out some fall decor as I do every year, but I think I am going to have a tough time without someone home during the day to keep me busy in my "Mom" role. On the other hand, the evenings will be filled with High School Football, Homework, Homework and more Homework along with guitar, swimming, etc. etc. I hope you all are healthy and happy and I will try to update more often. Take care everyone!

Salsa Fresco:

- 4 freshly chopped tomatos

- handful of chopped cilantro

- 3 T. chopped green pepper

- 2 or 3 jalapeno peppers (to taste) chopped

- 3t. freshly squeezed lime juice

- pinch of coarse ground salt

- dash of black pepper

- 1/2t. garlic powder

- 1/2 t. onion salt

- 1/2 T. sugar

* Put all ingredients in blender or food processor and "whiz" for a couple of seconds until you get desired consistancy. We like it really blended, or you can leave it chunky. It is simply soooo good!

Alright, which one of you gals left this chair on my front steps? I found this sitting outside of my door the other night! Well, whoever it was, I love it! I adore antique/old child size chairs and have some fun plans for this! When you are ready to fess up, come over for a cup of tea and I'll tell you my ideas. Thank you!!!

Gannon, Spencer, Nick and Lily the Westie enjoying some lazy mornin cartoons

Lily with Andrew

Yes, we have a couple of #4 fans!

"Bathtub Art with Nick"

Nicks car creation... what an artist!

"tub crayons" Fun, but a mess to clean off grout!

Quite the hairdo Nick! (cute)

Andrew, #70 - Go Elks!!!

Scooterin around with Gannon and Spencer

My big first grader!

Grab Bag of Stuff!

2009-08-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

Nicholas "waiting patiently to blow out the candle." He loves doing that...I better watch out when he gets a little older, I might have a pyro on my hands..hee, hee! He's too cute!

Here is my before and after from the "What the heck should I do with this thing?" section on the last post. Thank you for all your suggestions! I just stenciled a star, distressed it and added some dark red paint on the edges, then I filled it with a pewter candlestick, old bowl and a star. This is going out to a good friend who shares my love of primitive decor and is having a tough time. The Homestead gets a new look! We went the dark red I have always loved and took off the shutters as well as added some new window trim. I love how it turned out. I think I drove "Mr Homestead" a little nuts during the whole process. It's darn tough to make those big decisions while recovering from major surgery! Thanks Jon for putting up with me. :) I am now looking for the "perfect thing" for the front door. Any suggestions???

Summer fun for the boys with cousin Alex from Florida!

These are some goodies I received from a friend at Buttermilk Junction! I love them and they have found some great spots to sit. :)

My Gannon with the "Sheep"

**Well, I am having loads of trouble with Blogger lately! I can't download photos easily and my layouts keep getting goofed up. I am going to just keep it short, but I want to give a shout out to Raggedy Angel.... Thanks for entering me in your

giveaway....What a neat thing to do! Take care all and I hope to get a chance to write more on everyone's blogs this week. Keep the comments and e-mails coming! I love reading them!!

~Kim

Tin, Tin, Tin.... Yeah, it's done!

2009-07-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FRIDAY!!

How are you all doing? I don't have a whole lot to talk about today... am going to physical therapy twice a week. Still don't feel great, but I am trying really hard to be positive! I am so glad I still have my sense of humor! And I am grateful for my daily morning phone calls from my sister Heather! We just laugh and laugh. She has two lovely boys herself, so between the two of us, we have six boys! We could sure tell you some funny stories!! Did you all see that seven year old kiddo who hijacked the car and was chased by police? I laughed so hard the tears ran down my legs when I saw that on the Today show this morning! LOL Oh, I have to show you some photos of the tin back splash that my wonderful husband Jon put up in our kitchen! He is so very talented! Enjoy your weekend everyone and I will look forward to chatting soon!

Good Morning, Let the Stress Begin

2009-07-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

I have missed you all! In case you didn't know, I have had major hip surgery and have been not blogging for a couple of weeks. I have had a tough recovery, but have been showered with love and blessings from my wonderful family and loads of friends! Thank you everyone for the awesome hand delivered home cooked meals, flowers, cards, candles, prayers ! I have some photos above of the medical devices I have had to use lately.lol...Notice the blue "boots" Jon had to velcro me into these babies to keep my feet and hips aligned. They were "Hitler" torture items, I am sure of it!! Ha, ha. Also, check out the photo of the boys with me and my new walker. I am slowly moving to the crutches, but boy do I get some weird looks when we are out at the grocery or etc.!! I have posted an AWESOME recipe for a Panini Salad that a friend made for our family. I have never tasted anything like it! Also, I started a new section of my blog called ... "What the heck should I do with this?" I will occasional find junk or "treasures" as I like to call them and want to transform them into something fun and prim. Take a look and let me know what you would make with it. I know there are a LOT of talented ladies out there, so send me your comments! Many blessings to all!

~Kim

NEW SECTION.....

What the heck should I do with this?

Recipe of the day:

PANINI SALAD yummy!!!!!!!!!!

- 2 personal-size pizza crusts
- 4 slices provolone chesse
- 3 Tbs. olive oil
- 1 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
- 1 Tbs. thinly sliced basil
- 1 Tbs. chopped parsley
- 1/4 tsp. sugar
- pinch 0f salt, dash of pepper
- 1 bag italian-blend lettuce
- 2 oz. thinkly sliced Genoa salami
- 1/4 c. sliced red onion
- 1/4 c. roasted red pepper, sliced
- 2 plum tomatoes, sliced

To Make:
1. Heat oven to 450. cover each pizza crust with 2 slices of provolone cheese. Bake on the oven rack for about 7-9 minutes or until cheese is golden. Let cool then cut into wedges.
2. In a small jar, with a lid, (I used a baby food jar) combine olive oil, vinegar, basil, parsley, sugar, salt, pepper, and 1 tsp. water. Shake it up to mix! Next, place 2 pizza wedges on each of 4 plates: top with lettuce, ham, salami, onion, roasted red pepper, and tomato slices. Shake up the dressing once more to mix and drizzle over the salads. Makes 4 servings and boy is it good!!!!

Photos from the Homestead

2009-07-07T11:59:00.000-07:00

Here you go my blogger friends... thanks for sharing all your great "homestead" photos as well! I have really enjoyed looking at all the great home decor ideas, projects, etc
~Kim

Patriotic Fun!

2009-07-07T09:42:00.001-07:00

Greetings Friends! I have added some great photos of our July 4th Picnic. Also I have had so many requests to show some photos of our home, I added a couple of those too! I am having a little technical trouble "labeling" the photos, sorry about that. I am still learning how this all works! I have been reflecting on our great holiday weekend, and I am truly so grateful for our wonderful family and friends! I have also been blessed with some new blogging friends.. Kindra and Renee! It has been so much fun getting to know them! I hope you enjoy the photos and please send some comments my way. Simply click on the comments icon and follow the directions! Blessings to you all...until next time!

Spencer, Gannon and Nick getting ready for the fireworks!

Fun times Jennifer, Roy and Alan enjoying the picnic!

Tyler, Nicholas and Hunter having fun!

Spencer, Connor and Gannon by the tree

The Gang at the Park!

July 4th fun lights!

Take Time for the Little Things

2009-07-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

Nicholas with Dad doing some "big-time" fishing.

Hey everyone! I am going to keep today's post short and sweet. Have a SAFE and fun fourth! Enjoy the day and take some time for the small ,simple things that this holiday stands for. Freedom, liberty and all things American! I will be spending some quality time with dear friends and family this 4th and will be watching my boys' faces light up as they see the colors explode in the night sky. Treasure these moments, as they are swiftly gone!

Friday's Recipe!

President Kennedy's Favorite Strawberry Tart

1/2 c. Sugar

2 T. Cornstarch

5 Egg yolks

2 c. Milk

1 t. Vanilla

10-inch Baked tart shell

2 pints Fresh strawberries, washed and hulled

1/2 c. Apricot Jam

1/2 t. Sugar

1 t. Grand Marnier

** Combine the sugar and cornstarch. Add the egg yolks. Beat well. Scald the milk. Gradually pour it over the egg mixture, beating constantly. Bring almost to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat. Cool slightly before adding the vanilla. Chill thoroughly. Spoon the custard into the baked tart shell. Place the strawberries, hulled ends down, on the custard in rows or circles. Combine the jam and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat. Cool slightly before adding the Grand Marnier. Spoon the glaze over the strawberries.

Attention Walmart Shoppers!

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

Wow! I can't believe the Fourth of July is Saturday!! Even more shocking is the amount of people that are already out and about doing pre-holiday stock up and shopping. I am literally scared for my life at times when I go to our local Walmart. (lol) Where do these people come from?? Well, I will quit rambling. The boys are excited about fireworks, but if you haven't heard, Elk River is NOT having them this year due to budget cuts. I think that is happening all over these days. We might head up to Princeton to see theirs, and Jon might decide to dig out his arsenal of fireworks and light them off in the street. We did that one year, and it was better than going anywhere. He put up a screen on our garage and we all sat in the "bug-free" zone and had a blast. The only thing was that I could NOT get over my fears of him losing a limb in the process! The boys and I are heading off to see Ice Age, Dawn of the Dinosaurs today and then I will brave the mobs and pick up some blue cheese for my salad I am making for our July Fourth picnic. Wish me luck!

How to Make Star Luminarias~

You will need: White lunch bags, sand, glass votives with candles and a hole punch for this project.

*To Make: Punch a star design on the front and back of each white bag. Fill with about one cup of sand. Add the votive candles and ta-da, you have a great night time decoration.

2009-07-01T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! This is officially my first post ever! I am so grateful to have my boys next to me right now helping me with the blog! They are the technology wizards of the family! I hope to bring you weekly updates about family, events and outings, food and recipes, craft and decorating ideas and projects. My hope is that I can now stay better connected with our friends and family both near and far. I will be posting photos soon so stay tuned!

Recipes:

This one is great for all your July 4th gatherings!

Blue Cheese Potato Salad

8 c. potatoes, peeled, boiled and cubed
1/2 c. scallions, chopped
1/2 c. celery
2T fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 c. Slivered almonds, toasted
1/2 t. celery seed
2 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
1/2 c.crumbled blue cheese
2 c. sour cream
1/4 c. white wine vinegar

*In a large bowl, combine potatoes, scallions, celery, parsley, almonds, celery seed, salt and pepper. In another bowl, mix together blue cheese, sour cream and vinegar. Pour over potatoes and toss to coat. Chill overnight. Serves 10 to 12. Enjoy!