Homemaker of the 21st Century

Weekly Dinner Menu Plan

2009-02-02T21:18:00.003-05:00

Monday - (Leftover) Ham and Scalloped Potatoes with Green Beans
Tuesday - Spaghetti & Meatballs, Salad and Homemade Bread
Wednesday - Grilled Chicken Sandwiches, French Fries and Brussel Sprouts
Thursday - Beef Stir Fry
Friday - Calzones
Saturday - Chicken Pasta Salad & Steak Tidbits
Sunday - Roasted Chicken, Mashed Potatoes and Broccoli with Cheese

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How to Make a Kickin’ Hot Chocolate

2009-01-28T14:59:00.000-05:00

Hot Chocolate is one of the best comfort foods (err…drinks)! It’s the perfect treat for young and old! Sweet, creamy, succulent chocolate mixed with hot milk…does it really get any better than that? Well, yea, it does! Follow the steps below to make yourself one kickin’ hot chocolate you’ll want to make over and over again…

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How to Make Whipped Cream

2009-01-28T13:20:00.000-05:00

Homemade whipped cream tastes like heaven and it’s so easy to make why bother with a can? Bake a fresh, spongy angel food cake and whip up some flavor Grandma would be proud of with the simple step by step guide below! Learn how you can make homemade whipped cream in just minutes…

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Sample Recipe # 1 from Leftover Lunches - Spicy Taco Salad

2009-01-26T12:49:00.002-05:00

Spicy Taco Salad

½ cup leftover ground beef (from hamburgers, meatloaf, etc.)
¼ head Iceberg Lettuce, 1 small Tomato
¼ cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
¼ cup chopped onion
1 tsp. Taco Seasoning
1/8 cup Sour Cream
3 Tbs. Ranch Salad Dressing

Sprinkle taco seasoning over leftover ground beef, then heat either in the microwave or on the stove top), add additional ingredients to bowl and mix well. Top with sour cream and ranch salad dressing.

Get Your Copy of Leftover Lunches Today!

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Leftover Lunches is Finally Completed!

2009-01-26T11:21:00.002-05:00

After many months of writing and preparing, my e-book, "Leftover Lunches", is complete! I've set the price at just $10.00! I promise you will save that in a week!

For more information on this wonderful e-book or to get your copy, visit http://leftoverlunches.blogspot.com/

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Weekly Menu

2009-01-26T08:27:00.003-05:00

Unfortunately, I was a bit behind last week and didn't get a chance to post. I have a few great articles for you to read, I'll be posting them later today. But for now, here's my weekly menu :)

Enjoy!

Monday - Chicken Parmesan Subs

Tuesday - Hamburgers, Homemade French Fries and Broccoli with cheese
Wednesday - Fried Chicken, Stuffing and Salad

Thursday - Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans

Friday - Homemade Pizza

Saturday - Steak, Baked Potatoes and Salad

Sunday - Spiral Ham (It was on sale last week!!), Baked Macaroni & Cheese, Peas and Carrots

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How to Get Coupons for Free

2009-01-17T14:53:00.000-05:00

Need more coupons? Whether you want coupons for free stuff, coupons for groceries or free coupon codes to use online, the Internet is an ocean of information! You can easily get free coupons for anything from applesauce to zippers to sew into your clothes with this step by step guide!

Read More...

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How to Make Scrambled Eggs

2009-01-17T14:52:00.000-05:00

Are you new to cooking scrambled eggs? Maybe you just want to try a new recipe for scrambling eggs? Scrambled eggs are very easy to make and they are healthy too! Learn how to make scrambled eggs two different ways with this quick and easy guide!

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How to Survive a Depression

2009-01-17T14:50:00.000-05:00

Knowing what you really need to survive during an economic depression is just as important now as it was during the Great Depression. Learn how to prepare now, so you are ready for the impending depression!

How to Make Buttermilk in a Pinch

2009-01-08T09:41:00.000-05:00

The recipe you have calls for buttermilk and you have none…what can you do? Substitute! There are several ways to make a buttermilk substitute with ingredients you probably already have, here’s how!

Read More Here!

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How to Make Homemade Butter

2009-01-08T09:25:00.000-05:00

Wouldn’t it be great to have nice, fresh, creamy butter for your bread tonight? Make some! It’s really simple to make butter that your whole family can enjoy without churning! 2 simple ingredients and an electric mixer and homemade butter can be yours tonight!

Read More Here!

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Housecleaning 101

2009-01-07T13:40:00.003-05:00

Unfortunately that housekeeper you requested from Santa Claus didn't come through, so it's up to you to clean the house once again! Start the new year out right and organize your cleaning jobs! Here's a few tips to make that a little bit easier:

1. Delegate - There are many jobs around the house your children are perfectly capable of doing. Give them the job of folding laundry or putting away dishes. Setting the table and sweeping are also jobs that most children can easily do!

2. Make lists! Make a list for each room of all the things that you need to clean every day.Make a new list of things that need cleaning once a week and finally make one last list of all the jobs that need doing semi annually or annually (like cleaning windows or dusting behind the refrigerator).

3. Get to work...that's the most important thing I can tell you. The longer you let the mess go, the longer it will take you to clean it up. Start with 1 room and keep going until you reach the last corner or the last room.

Having a clean house makes life go so much smoother. So get off the computer and get to work! You'll be so thankful you did :) Now, it's time for me to take my own advice, I'm off to clean! Stumble It!

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Search for Recipes with Ingredients You Already Have on Hand!

2009-01-05T13:38:00.003-05:00

It's always a hassle to search for a recipe, then find the perfect one, only to realize you don't have the proper ingredients to make it!

Here's a site I just found that allows you to type in the ingredients you know you have and it searches for recipes for you using those items!

Check it out - > http://www.supercook.com/

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My New Look!

2009-01-05T13:34:00.004-05:00

The Homemaker of the 21st Century has a new look! What do you think? Is there anything you think should change? Be added or removed?

Please let me know by commenting below :)

I will be experimenting with the site for the next few days, please be patient if something doesn't look right :)

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This Week's Menu Plan

2009-01-04T20:14:00.002-05:00

It's going to be hard getting back in the swing of things this week after a long "vacation" from extra curricular classes and regular events, so I've attempted to make the menu plan a little easier this week.

Monday - Sliced Ham (frozen leftover from Christmas), Au Gratin Potatoes and Green Beans

Tuesday - Grilled Steak, Macaroni and Cheese with Broccoli (Homemade)

Wednesday - Chicken & Gravy over Pasta with Peas & Carrots

Thursday - Spaghetti & Meatballs and Green Salad

Friday - Tacos

Saturday - Leftovers from Thursday

Sunday - Crockpot Beef Stew, Homemade Bread with Butter

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How to Make an Easy Ground Beef Casserole

2008-12-31T16:54:00.000-05:00

In just 20 minutes you can have this quick and easy ground beef casserole on the table, ready to eat! How to Make an Easy Ground Beef Casserole Stumble It!

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How to Make Chicken With Cheesy Pasta

2008-12-31T16:52:00.000-05:00

A quick and easy recipe for Chicken with Cheesy Pasta. This step by step guide will have dinner on the table in under 20 minutes with everyone saying Yum! How to Make Chicken With Cheesy Pasta Stumble It!

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How to Bake Potatoes In Your Crock Pot

2008-12-31T16:50:00.001-05:00

Wouldn't you love to come home and have a nice hot baked potato waiting? Follow the steps in this article and all you have to do when you get home is broil your steak and dinner is ready! How to Bake Potatoes In Your Crock Pot Stumble It!

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Merry Christmas to All!

2008-12-24T14:46:00.001-05:00

I've been so busy for the last week preparing for Christmas, there hasn't been much time for the computer. But, I wanted to stop in and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Thank You for another great year! Stumble It!

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Quick & Easy Strawberry Shortcake

2008-12-19T14:31:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was my daughter's 5th birthday and rather than cake, she wanted milkshakes for dessert. Kindly, my grandmother pointed out that I needed something to stick a candle in, because obviously you can't stick a candle in a milkshake ; ) So I quickly scanned the pantry and found a package of Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Mix, thinking I'd make 1 big cookie in a round cake pan...however, when I attempted to turn the pan over and put the cookie on a rack, the giant cookie broke. Here I am thinking I'm going to make a masterpiece and the cookie was in a million pieces! (Well,, maybe not a million....but definately broken). Frantically thinking of what I could possibly do to fix the cookie, I decided it was best to put it back into the pan. So, I smooshed the cookie in the pan until it was somewhat stuck together, trying carefully not to burn myself in the process and let it cool. Lucky for me after it cooled, it was stuck together and 1 big cookie again!! I mixed together some cool whip and frozen strawberries and ended up with a beautiful strawberry shortcake dessert! Here's the recipe :) 1 pkg Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie mix2 cups frozen strawberries, thawed1/2 container of Cool Whip Mix cookies as directed on the package and place in a 9 inch round cake pan. Bake in the oven at 375 for about 15 minutes. Remove and allow to cool. While the cookie is cooling, mix together strawberries and cool whip until it's a nice pink color. Then top the cooled cookie and chill in the fridge for about an hour before serving! Stumble It!

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Weekly Dinner Menu

2008-12-15T10:32:00.004-05:00

Monday- Hot Dogs, Homemade Mac n Cheese, Green BeansTuesday - Steak and Homemade French Fries, SaladWednesday - Roasted Chicken and Pasta SaladThursday - Spaghetti and Mini Meatballs, Green Salad and BreadFriday - Pork Chops, Sauerkraut and Brussel SproutsSaturday - Chicken Breast Parmesan SubsSunday - Beef Roast, Mashed Potatoes and Broccoli Stumble It!

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Make Your Own Homemade Pretzels - Hard or Soft!!

2008-12-15T10:20:00.002-05:00

My daughters and I are doing a study on pretzels, so of course we wanted to make our own! I just found the absolute best recipe for both hard and soft pretzels! The recipe is very simple, the girls had a ball making them and they taste so much better than store bought! My husband loves the Butter flavored pretzels in the store, but I can't wait for him to try these...I may never BUY pretzels again! Get the recipe here - > http://www.recipezaar.com/Pretzels-Hard-and-Soft-117047 Stumble It!

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Make Money with Cash Crate!

2008-12-10T12:09:00.002-05:00

I was just checking my email when I noticed an email about a Bonus payment to my Cash Crate Account. I was shocked to find that you actually can make money with Cash Crate without having to join a bunch of things you just aren't interested in! For more information on Cash Crates referral program...click here! Stumble It!

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How to Make Crafts Using Recycled Tin Cans

2008-12-10T12:08:00.000-05:00

Cans, Cans, Everywhere! What to do with tin cans seems to be on everyone’s mind. They are truly everywhere. From coffee cans to vegetable cans you can do your part in helping the environment by recycling these cans into creative craft projects! How to Make Crafts Using Recycled Tin Cans Stumble It!

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How to Make Extra Money During a Recession

2008-12-10T12:05:00.001-05:00

Here’s a few ideas for making extra money on the side… How to Make Extra Money During a Recession Stumble It!

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Weekly Dinner Menu

2008-12-08T08:20:00.003-05:00

Monday - Chicken and Biscuits

Tuesday - Steak and Salad

Wednesday - Cheeseburgers, French Fries and Green Beans

Thursday - Chicken Pasta Salad

Friday - Pizza

Saturday - Roast Beef, Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli

Sunday - Fried Chicken, Homemade Macaroni and Cheese and Brussel Sprouts

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Cooking for the Freezer

2008-12-01T08:44:00.004-05:00

I've recently had the opportunity to learn how efficient it is to cook for your freezer. My daughters and I were sitting around one recent snowy Sunday and I had the itch to cook something. Here's the Result:
Mini PancakesFollow the instructions for mixing on the package. Then using a small soup ladle, pour pancake mix on a hot griddle, measuring about 3 inches across. After cooked, place flat on a cookie sheet and allow to cool. Once cool, place full cookie sheet in freezer uncovered for about 1 hour. Then remove and put pancakes in a ziploc bag. To Use: Simply pull them out of the bag and pop in the microwave for 1 minute/3 pancakes.If you prefer to use the oven, heat to 350 degrees, then wrap pancakes in foil and cook for about 5 minutes.
French Toast Sticks1 loaf bread6 eggs1/4 tsp. Cinnamon1/2 tsp. VanillaDip bread slices into egg mixture, then place in frying pan and cook until brown. Remove from pan and place on a cookie sheet. Once cooled, cut into sticks. Place full cookie sheet in freezer uncovered for about 1 hour. Then remove and put french toast sticks in a ziploc bag.

To Use: Simply pull them out of the bag and pop in the microwave for 1 minute/5 french toast sticks. If you prefer to use the oven, heat to 350 degrees, then wrap sticks in foil and cook for about 5 minutes.
French Fries5 lbs. PotatoesSalt4 quarts boiling waterSlice potatoes into french fries, then place in pot of boiling water for 2 minutes. Remove from water and place flat on a cookie sheet. Once cooled place cookie sheet full of fries into the freezer uncovered and allow to freeze overnight. Remove from from freezer and place french fries into ziploc bags and refreeze.To Use: Remove fries from freezer and place on baking sheet. Bake at 450 degrees for 30 minutes or Deep Fry at 450 degrees for about 7 minutes. Stumble It!

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My Weekly Menu

2008-12-01T08:28:00.005-05:00

Breakfast:

Monday, Friday - Cereal

Tuesday, Thursday - Frozen Mini Pancakes

Wednesday, Saturday - Frozen French Toast Sticks

Sunday - Scrambled Eggs, Pancakes, Bacon

Lunch:

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday - Leftovers

Alternate Days:

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches (my youngest daughter can't resist!)

Dinner:

Monday - Chicken and Gravy on Crescent Rolls, Baked Potato, Green Beans

Tuesday - Tacos

Wednesday - Steak, French Fries, Salad

Thursday - Chili Pot Pie

Friday - Homemade Pizza and Mozzarella Sticks

Saturday - Venison Parmesean and Spaghetti

Sunday - Roasted Chicken, Mashed Potatoes and Corn, with Crescent Rolls

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Homemaker of the 21st Century Zine

2008-11-26T12:34:00.004-05:00

I've decided to put my work in print :) The Homemaker of the 21st Century now has a zine!! Perfect for quick easy access to recipes and articles, when a computer is not available!

Learn More and Purchase your copy today!

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Homemade Peanut Butter Cup Cappuccino

2008-11-25T17:10:00.003-05:00

I love specialty coffee, however, I can't stand the cost at Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. I've been experimenting for quite awhile now and have managed to come up with a few really good recipes that are easy (and cheap) to make at home. Here's one of my favorites :)
Peanut Butter Cup Cappuccino
8 oz Hot Coffee (make it as strong as you like, I used 1 full scoop in 6 cups of water)
1/2 cup Milk
2 TBS Creamy Peanut Butter
1/4 cup Chocolate Syrup
2 TBS Sugar

Pour all ingredients into a blender. Blend for approx. 2 minutes or until frothy. Serve Warm.
Enjoy :)
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Easy Crockpot Beef Stew - Dinner Recipe - November 25, 2008

2008-11-25T16:04:00.007-05:00

I know it's been awhile since I posted any recipes, but I really miss doing it and want to get back to it! So, hopefully, I'll be posting more regularly again...it's just a matter of making/taking the time! There is so much to be done, it seems as though time just slips away!!Anyway, here's a new dinner recipe for you try :) It's simple, takes only a few minutes to prepare in the morning and dinner is ready when you are ready to eat it!
Just for fun, I've added the cost too :)

Easy Crockpot Beef Stew

Leftover London Broil Steak (I had about 1/2 of a 2 lb. steak leftover and it was the perfect amt. If you don't have any leftover steak, you can always use fresh or frozen beef, just brown it up ahead of time) Cost: Approx. $3.00)6 Small Russet Potatoes (Cut into about 1/2 inch chunks) Cost: Approx. $0.902 cups Baby Carrots (Cost: Approx. $0.75)2 cups Celery (chopped) (Cost: Approx. $0.75)1 Whole Onion (cut into quarters) (Cost: Approx. $0.38)1 Large Can Diced Tomatoes (Cost: Approx. $1.10)1 Can Beef Gravy (Cost: Approx. $1.00)1 cup Water

Add all ingredients up to and including the Onion to the Crockpot.

Pour Tomatoes, Gravy and Water into a blender or food processor and blend until well mixed.

Pour liquid over meat and vegetables in Crockpot. Turn on high and allow to cook for approx. 6 hours.

If you need it to cook longer, simply use the low temperature setting on your Crockpot :)

Add some bread and butter and you have the perfect meal for a cold winter night!

Total Cost for Stew: $7.88Serves: 8Total Cost per serving: $0.99!!Wow! It doesn't get any better than that :)

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Wow!

2008-10-20T08:13:00.004-04:00

Wow! It seems as if it's been forever since I last posted. I guess it pretty much has...6 months!! I've been really busy in those 6 months! I was really itchy this spring...call it "twitterpated" if you will ; ) While searching for a new craft...I was hoping for something that I could do with my hands to keep me from driving myself crazy...I came across soap making. Now, I've played around with soap making in the past, but it was as mediocre as grating some ivory soap and adding oatmeal (Which by the way, is great for acne!! See recipe below). But awhile back I learned about Melt & Pour soap, so I figured I'd try it....well I love it! In fact, I love it so much that I decided to start a new businessmaking soap :) I hope to soon learn how to make cold process soaps as well, but I'm still a bit afraid of the lye ; ) Please check out my new store at http://basicbodys.etsy.com. I only have a few things listed right now, but there are over 30 items in my living room waiting to be listed ; ) I haven't given up scrapbooking, at least not for myself and family and friends, but I'm no longer offering it for sale on ebay. The costs there are just astronomical and I can't compete with the "groups". Easy Homemade Soap Recipe 1 bar ivory soap1 cup water1/4 cup ground oatmeal (just put oats in your blender or food processor) Grate or finely slice ivory soap, then place in bowl with water and microwave for 2 minutes on high. Add oatmeal, then pour into a mold and allow to harden overnight. It's that easy! You can also add brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger and cloves for extra exfoliation! Stumble It!

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Custom Pre-Designed Scrapbook - 20 Pages

2008-04-08T19:34:00.001-04:00

I have another 20 scrapbook pages up for sale on ebay. This will probably be the last time I sell at such a low price, so if you're interested...check it out here!

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Weekly Dinner Menu

2008-04-08T19:28:00.002-04:00

I'm a little behind this week, I have a lot going on, so most of my dinners are straight from a box :( But anyway...here's my menu :)

Monday - Pizza
Tuesday - Stuffed Chicken & Tater Tots & Broccoli
Wednesday - Hamburgers and Mac & Cheese & Salad
Thursday - Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes & Green Beans
Friday - Chicken Stir Fry
Saturday - Hot Roast Beef Sandwiches & French Fries & Salad
Sunday - Roasted Chicken and Potatoes

Enjoy :)

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Turkey Leftovers for Lunch ~ Lunch Recipe

2008-04-02T08:44:00.003-04:00

I received some happy and sad news yesterday. My sister is engaged...that's the happy part. The sad part is, she's moving...5 states away :(

Fortunately, she's going to visit today and I wanted to have a nice afternoon together, starting with lunch. I made that big turkey the other night, so I have lots of leftovers and I figured I'd make my favortie turkey leftover recipe.

This recipe is quick, easy and if you just made a turkey, you're sure to have all the ingredients!

My e-book, "Leftover Lunches in Under 10 Minutes", contains this recipe, as well as several others! Look for it's debut in the next two weeks!

Thanksgiving Wrap

2 cups chopped leftover turkey
2 cup leftover stuffing
1/2 can cranberry sauce
3 Tbs whipped salad dressing
4 Tortillas

Mix the leftover turkey and whipped salad dressing together in a bowl. Spread cranberry sauce on torillas. Spoon stuffing onto cranberry sauce and press to flatten. Add turkey mixture and wrap. Serve immediately.

Enjoy :)

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Learn American Sign Language Free

2008-04-02T07:51:00.005-04:00

My daughter is currently studying American Sign Language. Her six year old little mind decided, after reading Helen Keller, that she wanted to learn. So I did what any good mommy would do, I searched until my fingers bled to find her a good program ;)

The first thing I found was a tutorial DVD called Sign - A - Lot. This taught the basics of the alphabet in "funny" terms with young children dancing around and singing the sign they were showing. It's really a great way for young children to learn the very basics of sign language, however, we needed something more.

Back to the drawing board I went, in search of a better program. During my second search I found Rocket Sign Language. BINGO! Rocket Sign Language offers a free 6 day course, which includes use of their software, lesson plans and video tutorials!

During this mini course, she learned basic conversation, which the other program did not teach. It thrilled me to no end the other day when she decided to sign a question to her Grandmother instead of speaking and it certainly shocked Grandma too!

If you are looking for an American Sign Language tutorial, for yourself or your child, you really should take the time to check this out! It's free, so you have nothing to lose!

Here's the Rocket Sign Language website.

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Stonyfield Farm Has Announced a Yogurt Recall!

2008-03-31T08:09:00.005-04:00

Do you eat yogurt? How about your kids, do they eat it too? Beware, when you open your next cup of yogurt!

Stonyfield Farm has just announced a recall on yogurt. According to the article I found on eMaxHealth, it is a voluntary recall of Stonyfield Organic Fat Free Blueberry Yogurt. This yogurt was packaged in 6 oz. cups with product codes printed on the bottom of the cup beginning with the following dates:

Apr 13 08

Apr 14 08

Apr 15 08

April 25 08

Apr 26 08

Apparently customers have complained of finding tiny mustard size beads in this yogurt. So far, no one has been injured, however, Stonyfield Farm feels it is necessary to recall this yogurt to prevent future injury.

Anyone who has purchased yogurt cups containing these dates should return them to their local store for a full refund. Customers with questions should contact Stonyfield Farm Consumer Relations directly at 1-800-PRO-COWS.

I hope none of you have any of this yogurt, but if you do be sure to return it and get your money back, don't take the chance that it could be something dangerous!

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Origin of April Fool's Day Pranks

2008-03-31T07:46:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is April Fool's Day, what prank are you going to pull?

The excerpt below comes from Wikipedia, but I strongly encourage you to read the whole article, it contains a lot of neat information you probably never knew about April Fool's Day or All Fool's Day...

"The origins of this custom are complex and a matter of much debate. It is likely a relic of the once common festivities held on the vernal equinox, which began on the 25th of March, old New Year's Day, and ended on the 2nd of April.

Though the 1st of April appears to have been observed as a general festival in Great Britain in antiquity, it was apparently not until the beginning of the 18th century that the making of April-fools was a common custom. In Scotland the custom was known as "hunting the gowk," i.e. the cuckoo, and April-fools were "April-gowks," the cuckoo being a term of contempt, as it is in many countries."

Here are a few harmless ideas for April Fool's Day Pranks :)

Here's some more: http://www.funatiparty.com/projects/pranks.asp

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Dinner Menu for the Week of March 30 - April 5

2008-03-30T20:00:00.003-04:00

Here's this week's dinner menu :)

I made a turkey tonight, along with mashed potatoes, corn & biscuits.

Monday ~ Tacos
Tuesday ~ Baked Ziti, green salad and bread
Wednesday ~ Hot Turkey Sandwiches, Mashed Potatoes and Vegetables
Thursday ~ Steak, Mac & Cheese and green salad
Friday ~ Homemade Pizza
Saturday ~ Leftovers from the week

Enjoy :)

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Art & Craft Classes for Kids...

2008-03-29T09:11:00.003-04:00

Where I live, there are very few things around for children to do. Since, homeschooling, I've noticed even more often how few activities our local communities offer for children to do. So, I've been toying around with the idea of offering Arts & Craft classes or workshops for kids.

I would of course, have to charge for the classes, but I'd like to keep the cost as cheap as possible, so that more kids have the opportunity to join.

But, I wonder, is there a market for this? Would any of you send your children to a craft workshop? What would you be willing to pay per class?

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Grocery, Food Freebies + Coupons

2008-03-29T08:46:00.003-04:00

Save $1 on Scott towels
Save $1 on Rice Krispies
Save $1 on Quaker Oats
Save $.55 on Betty Crocker Frosting
Save $1 on All Laundry Detergent
Save $.55 on Totino's Pizza Roll Snacks
Save $1 on Milky Way Candy Bars
Save $1 on 2 Chex Mix
Save $1 on 8 Yoplait
Save $1 on Pop Secret
Save $1.00 on 2 Toaster Strudel
Save $.45 on Swiss Miss
Save $.60 when you buy any Pillsbury® Crescent Dinner Rolls
Save .40 on Betty Crocker Brownie Mix
SAVE $1 on any one (1) package of Ball Park Turkey Franks NEW!
SAVE $1 on any one (1) package of Ball Park Angus Beef Franks NEW!
SAVE 55¢ on any ONE (1) variety of The Laughing Cow® Cheese Wedges
SAVE 50¢ on any one FRENCH'S® French Fried Onions
SAVE $1 on one (1) 100 count or two (2) 40 count Melitta premium cone filters

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Custom Designed Scrapbook

2008-03-28T08:30:00.002-04:00

I just wanted to let you all know that I listed new Custom Designed Scrapbook Pages on ebay. It's been awhile, since I listed, but the itch to create has been killing me :)

This particular listing is for 20 custom designed pages.

I will be updating soon with new single and double pages!

Here's jsut a few of the examples I've shown :

Feel free to check it out, if you get a chance!

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Planning Your Canning ~ Gardening - Part Two

2008-03-27T09:25:00.003-04:00

While it may seem silly to be talking about planning your canning when you are only just beginning to plant your seeds, it's not! You need to plan what you want to preserve in order to choose your seeds.

I've already begun my planting, so we'll use my garden as an example. The following are the seeds I've started:

Pole Beans
Brandywine Tomatoes
Cherry Tomatoes
Broccoli
Sugar Snap Peas
Cucumbers
Watermelon
Mint
Lemon Balm
German Chamomile
Strawberries
Carrots

Now, there are several ways to preserve your vegetables. Canning, Freezing and Drying. I know, your question is, which is the best way for each vegetable, well I'm going to give you a couple of examples. But if you've never preserved food before, you should really invest in a good canning and preserving book. Most include detailed instructions, as well as recipes. (The book to your right, is the one I personally use. It contains very detailed instructions, right down to the time needed for each step, as well as hundreds of great recipes.)

Beans are a touchy subject. If not canned properly, they can grow bacteria, which of course will make you sick, so the best route to take with any bean or pea is freezing. Broccoli, should also be frozen.

Tomatoes can be frozen or canned. Myself, I can them, but only because it's what I know how to do :) The cherry tomatoes are mostly for salads and my daughters to pick at during the summer. You could of course use these for canning, it would just take forever.

Cucumbers cannot be frozen, so your best bet is to make pickles with them. They are rather fast growing and just a few plants could yield you enough for a couple dozen jars of pickles. Watermelon is also a squash and cannot be frozen, however, save the rinds, you can make pickles with those too!

The herbs, can be frozen or dried. I prefer to freeze them, it holds the flavor in better than drying.

To be continued...

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Keeping the Bills Paid - Easy Budgeting for Stay at Home Mom's ~ Part 2

2008-03-27T08:59:00.002-04:00

I hope you were able to easily understand part one of this series, if not, please feel free to email me and I'll walk you through it :)

During this time of recession, American people are having a really hard time paying their bills. A big part of the problem is of course the increased cost in everything except wages. However, another large problem, is the people themselves. First off, they lack a budget and second, people spend way more than they can afford.

In order to keep your bills paid on time, you need a system. The first part of that system is your budget (from part one).

After your budget is complete, it becomes necessary to organize your bills. Simply follow the steps below and you should have no problem keeping your bills organized and paid on time each month!

Step One: Purchase a cheap desktop organizer with 3 or more slots. The back slot is for your budget book. The second slot is for your coupon book (we'll get to more on that later) and last but certainly not least, the front slot is for your bills. DO NOT allow anything else to go in this organizer.

Step Two: Print a 1 page calendar, for the month you are starting with. (You can get one here free) Now, pull out all your due bills and write them on your calendar for the dates they are due.

Step Three: Place this calendar inside your budget book. Each week when you get paid (or whenever you get paid), open your budget book to a clean page and write the date at the top. On the next line, write the balance of your checking account (or whatever account you use to pay bills). Then add your deposited paycheck.

Step Four: Write down any outstanding checks and subtract this amount from your balance.

Step Five: Pull out your bill calendar and write each bill that is due that week in your budget book.

Step Six: Pay each bill, then subtract that amount (each time) from your balance. If you are paying online or over the phone, be sure to write down any confirmation numbers given to you.

Repeat this process EVERY time you get paid and your bills will always be paid on time!

To be continued...

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Start Your Garden Indoors with Seeds and Soil ~ Gardening Part One

2008-03-27T08:38:00.004-04:00

The time has come! Spring is here and you need to get those seeds started! With the constant news about chemicals and bacteria in our food, especially produce, I would think most everyone wants to start their own garden this year. I know I do!!

Most places in the US have started to thaw out and within the next month or two, it will be time to get your baby plants into the ground. That means, now is the time to get your seeds started. So, how do you do it?

Follow my step by step plan below and your seedlings will be sprouted up before you know it!

Step One: You need to purchase Peat Soil Pellets and Seeds of your choice.

Step Two: Follow directions on package and add water to the peat soil pellets and allow them to expand completely.

Step Three: Place your individual seed (unless otherwise noted on the package) about 1/4" down inside the peat pellet.

Step Four: Water daily and watch them grow!

To Be Continued...

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20 Cookbooks for just $1.00 each*!

2008-03-26T09:46:00.003-04:00

"Are you sick of searching for recipes everyday? From breakfast to Dessert, it's always so difficult to keep the whole family happy, isn't it?"

Well, search no further! Food pals has a really great offer for you!

Buy 20 Cookbooks for just $20.00!

Your search is finally over! Each day you can just sit at your computer with coffee in hand and pick from thousands of recipes. The best part is, you get to choose what you're in the mood for! The cookbooks in this collection are each in it's own category of foods, which include:

Secret Sauces Exposed!: The Savory Sauces of 5-Star Restaurants

The Best Darn BBQ Recipes Ever - Vol 1

Healthy Heart Low Cholesterol Cookbook

Fix & Forget It Crockpot Recipes

Foodies Favorite 229 Pie Recipes

Global Kitchen Homemade Soup Recipes

Good Ole Comfort Foods: The Go-to Recipes They're Sure to Love

The Grill Master's Guide to Grilling

55 Quick & Easy Pumpkin Recipes

Special Occasion Cookbook: The Special Recipes for Special Times

Diabetic Delights: The Healthier Version of Your Favorite Foods

Kid Approved Cookbook: Delicious Dishes the Kids Will Love

Wow! With all those titles, you literally will never have to search through thousands of websites again!

To top that, Food Pals is GIVING AWAY 8 bonuses if you buy this package today!

The bonuses include:

300 Chicken Recipes

Easy Chinese Style Cooking

Chocolate Recipes for Chocolate Lovers

Authentic & Old-Fashioned Mother's Recipes

Summertime Grill Recipes

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Smoothies for Athletes

A Guide to 365 Foreign Dishes

Ron Douglas mentions several times, that he'd like to sell this collection of cookbooks for over a hundred dollars, so don't wait!

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Easy Budgeting for Stay at Home Mom's ~ Part 1

2008-03-25T15:57:00.003-04:00

I know, I know! Budgeting is your worst enemy. Believe me when I say it's mine too. There never seems to be enough money to go all the way around and of course there isn't any for fun stuff, right? Two years ago, I was in the same boat. No idea where my money was going or how to fix it.

My dear aunt, took me under her wing and taught me the easiest budget plan I'd ever seen and it wasn't easy for her to teach me either, because we live 5 states apart! But learn it I did and now, thanks to that, my bills are paid on time, we just bought a new car and I actually have more than $25.00 in my savings account.

Well, don't worry! I'm going to help you learn the simplest budgeting method. You'll be shocked at how easy it really can be! Just follow my step by step example below and soon, your budget won't be your enemy.

Step One: Buy a Composition Book!
They only cost a $1 or so and it's well worth it! Stop wasting your money on high end computer software that guarantees your budget. There is no guaranetee, believe me!

Step Two: You'll need a pen! Open your new book to the last two pages side by side.
At the very top, write your weekly income on the left page and your monthly income total on the right page. On the left side title the page "Weekly Budget", on the right page title it "Monthly Budget".

Step Three: This is the hardest part! Compile all of your bills and start by writing down (on the left side of the page) the most important bill at the top of your weekly budget and then again on your monthly budget.

Example (these are the categories I currently have):

Weekly Budget

Groceries -
Mortgage -
Electric -
Phone -
Car Payment -
Life Insurance -
Car Insurance -
Internet -
Car Insurance -
Gas in Car -
Dance Lessons(my daughter) -
Land and School Taxes (Annual) -

Step Four - On the monthly budget side of the page, write down all the total amounts due for each month on the right hand side of the page.

Step Five - Divide each amount by 4 (for an average of 4 weeks in a month), then write that amount under your Weekly Budget.

Step Six - Add the amounts of each category and write the amount at the bottom of the page. Do this for both Weekly and Monthly Budget. Now subtract your total bill amount from your income.

To be continued...

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Dinner Menu for the Week of March 25 - 29, 2008

2008-03-25T11:01:00.003-04:00

I haven't been very good about keeping up with the daily recipes lately. To be honest, I've been very lazy about creating my own menu as well. Time is not on my side right now and there is so much that needs doing!

In light of that, I've decided to post my weekly menu here, once a week, instead of daily. I'll do my best to include recipe sources and links as well! Enjoy :)

Tuesday - Marinated Pineapple Pork Chops, Potato Poofies , Green Salad
Wednesday - Brown Sugar Meatloaf, Green Beans, Mashed Potatoes
Thursday - Garlic Lemon Chicken with Linguini Green Salad
Friday - Awesome Lasagna Pie
Saturday - Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Sunday - London Broil & Roasted Potatoes with Broccoli
Monday - Chicken Parm Meatball Subs

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A New Car!!

2008-03-25T10:51:00.004-04:00

Finally I got a new car! This past Saturday, my husband and I made a 3 hour trek across the state to a great car dealership that has a huge selection of vehicles, all makes and models. When we got there, our goal was to find a fairly new Dodge minivan, under the price of $14,000 dollars. Well, we didn't leave with one...we left with a 2007 Chrysler Pacifica for only $17,000!

Defintely a major deal, since the retail price of the same vehicle is $24,000! So, in my mind we just saved $7,000! However, the problem is we went knowing we had a budget of $14,000 and blew it. Fortunately, we had saved a downpayment of $3,500, which actually brought our financing down to $13,500, but now my payment is still higher than we had hoped.

So, in honor of my new found position of needing to save more money :) I am going to start a collection of budgeting articles for you! Hopefully, finding the solution to my dilemma will help you find yours!

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Happy St. Patrick's Day!! Dinner tonight is Corned Beef & Cabbage

2008-03-17T07:55:00.003-04:00

This easy recipe is how I've been making Corned Beef & Cabbage for many years! It's so easy and tastes so good, you'll want to make it throughout the year.

Corned Beef & Cabbage

1 2-3 lb. Corned Beef
1 head Cabbage
6 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 onion (optional)
4 large or 6 small potatoes, washed and quartered
water

Place the corned beef in your crockpot at the bottom, add potatoes, onion and carrots. Fill crockpot to the top with water and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add cabbage and cook for an additional 2 hours on high. Serve with warm Irish Soda Bread.

Amazingly Easy Irish Soda Bread

INGREDIENTS
4 cups all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup margarine, softened
1 cup buttermilk
1 egg
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup buttermilk

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet.
In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and margarine. Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and 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 cup buttermilk; brush loaf with this mixture. Use a sharp knife to cut an 'X' into the top of the loaf.
Bake in preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, about 30 to 50 minutes. You may continue to brush the loaf with the butter mixture while it bakes.

Recipe Source: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Amazingly-Easy-Irish-Soda-Bread/Detail.aspx

Enjoy :)

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FREE Digital Scrapbook Software ~ Scrapbook Factory Deluxe

2008-02-19T10:59:00.001-05:00

Art Explosion Scrapbook Factory Deluxe 2.0

Preserve precious memories to share with loved ones and future generations with version 2.0 of America’s #1 best selling scrapbooking software. Scrapbook Factory Deluxe 2.0 has everything you need. It offers the ultimate collection of templates for scrapbooks and other keepsake projects, featuring beautiful graphics and inspirational quotations sure to capture the excitement of any occasion or event. Because Scrapbook Factory Deluxe is the only product of its kind built on a robust graphics engine, you can achieve results never before possible with other products. Included are sophisticated drawing tools, spectacular lettering options, transparency support and much more. Looking to capture the beauty of a wedding? The fun of a family vacation? What about the excitement of your child’s first lost tooth? No matter what the occasion, Scrapbook Factory Deluxe gives you incomparable tools – all guaranteed to help you produce projects you and your family will cherish for a lifetime.

Free After Rebate from TigerDirect!

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Did You Know?

2008-02-18T20:34:00.002-05:00

Reader's Digest has their own store! I never knew that! They offer books (at 80% off the cover price!!), gifts, children's items, cd's, dvd's and educational items!

Stop by Nothing But Free Stuff to get great coupons to shop the Reader's Digest Store!

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Pizza Casserole Recipe ~ Dinner Menu 2/14/08

2008-02-14T08:30:00.002-05:00

In honor of Valentine's Day, we're eating "red" tonight :)

Pizza Casserole Recipe

Ingredients - 2 cups egg noodles (before cooking)
- l lb ground beef
- l/2 cup finely chopped onion
- l/4 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
- l/2 clove minced garlic (optional)
- l can tomato soup (10 oz. size)
- l/3 cup water
- ll tsp dried oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
- l cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

Directions
1. Cook noodles according to direction.
2. Brown meat, onion and pepper and garlic.
3. Add seasoning and soup. Mix with noodles. Add half the cheese and mix in.
4. Put in greased casserole. Top with remaining cheese and bake 350 degrees about 20 minutes, or til heated through.

Recipe Source: Food Classics

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Happy Valentine's Day :)

2008-02-14T08:28:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day to all! I hope you have a wonderful love filled day!

My daughter's and I will be going to our first home school meeting today with the local group of homeschoolers. We're very nervous, but excited! But before that we've got to do school work, so I guess I should get to work!

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Great Reader Tip!!

2008-02-12T07:43:00.000-05:00

"Hi there love your site. Just wanted to let you know of another great use for baking soda and vinegar. You may already know but it makes a great and effective drain cleaner and it is safe for all types of pipes. It is also less expensive than real pipe cleaners. Just thought I'd share"
Thanks
Dawne

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How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken

2008-02-11T21:52:00.000-05:00

Are you looking for the perfect fried chicken recipe? Well look no further, because here it is! Succulent, crispy fried chicken on your dinner table tonight!

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How to Make an Easy Budget

2008-02-11T21:50:00.000-05:00

This step by step guide will get you on the path to budgeted living while still having room for fun!

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How to Remove Mold from the Bath and Shower with Baking Soda and Vinegar

2008-02-11T21:49:00.000-05:00

Got a little ring around the tub? Black mold loves the shower and it especially loves the tiny cracked crevices of the chaulking. This step by step guide will show you how to remove the mold from your tub!

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How to Make Crispy Homemade French Fries

2008-02-11T21:48:00.000-05:00

Do you love the taste and texture of crispy homemade french fries, but every recipe you use turns out soggy? Follow these simple directions to perfect crispy french fries!

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How to Get More Traffic to Your Blog or Website Free

2008-02-11T21:46:00.000-05:00

Sick and tired of spending hours each day working on your blog or website only to get zero traffic? This step by step guide will show you how to get more traffic to your website or blog for free!

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Apple Crisp ~ Dessert Recipe ~ 2/11/08

2008-02-11T08:21:00.000-05:00

Once in awhile I like to suprise my family with dessert. It's been awhile since we've had Apple Crisp, so I thought I'd make some tonight!

The recipe I will be using, came from Food Classics, be sure to stop by and sign up for their Free Weekly Recipe Newsletter! It comes each week with some really great recipes :)

Now, on to the recipe :)

Apple Crisp Recipe

Preparation time 45 minutes to 1 hour

Ingredients
- 5 Apples, sliced and peeled
- 1 c Brown Sugar
- 3/4 c Quaker Oats
- 3/4 c Flour
- 1 t Cinnamon
- 1 t Nutmeg
- 1 Stick Butter, softened
- 1/4 c Apple Juice, or water

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 deg F
2. Put half of the apples in a greased 9
3. Blend together remaining ingredients, except juice, and crumble half the flour mixture over the apples
4. Cover with remaining apples and flour mixture
5. Pour juice over top
6. Bake 35 minutes
7. Great with vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy :)

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Crockpot Chili ~ Dinner 2/11/08

2008-02-11T07:38:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
1 lb. Extra lean ground beef
1 cup Chopped onion
3 (14.5 oz) cans Diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (14.5 oz) can Tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can Great northern beans, rinsed and drained
1 (14.5 oz) can Red kidney bean, rinsed and drained
1 (14.5 oz) can Corn, drained
2 tbsp. Chili powder
1 tbsp. Cumin
1 cup Salsa

Preparation
Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet until cooked through, drain and pour into a crockpot. Dump rest of ingredients in crockpot, stir. Cook on low for 8 hours.

Recipe Source: http://www.mealsmatter.org/recipes-meals/recipe/12034

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I'm saving BIG this week on my groceries using coupons and sales!!

2008-02-10T21:08:00.000-05:00

I can't believe the savings I'm getting this week at the grocery store! It has got to be my best ever!

I just finished writing out my grocery list, I found every thing I needed that is on sale in my local store's weekly circular, just as suggested by America's Cheapest Family, then I followed the directions in Coupons to Free Groceries to match the coupons I bought from Coupons and Things by Dede and I managed to save over $29.00!

If I hadn't followed the tips in those books and just went shopping and bought these items when they were not on sale, my final price would be around $73.49. But because I followed their tips and purchased coupons, my final price will be around $44.05! As I said above, that's a total savings of $29.00 by just shopping the sales and using coupons.

Here's my list and the savings:

$0.48 ~ 2 Right Guard Deoderant
- Retail Price: 2.49 each x 2 = $4.98
- I have 2 coupons worth $1.00 each off 1
- These are on sale for $1.24 each
- Total Price after sale and coupons = $0.24 each!

$0.48 ~ 2 Soft & Dri Deoderant
- Retail Price: 2.49 each x 2 = $4.98
- I have 2 coupons worth $1.00 each off 1
- These are on sale for $1.24 each
- Total Price after sale and coupons = $0.24 each!

$1.19 ~ Split Top Wheat Bread
- Retail Price: $1.49
- Sale Price: $1.19 (I don't have coupons for this because it's the store brand)

$1.23 ~ Folgers Coffee
- Retail Price: $3.46
- Sale Price: $1.73
- I have one coupon worth $0.25, but my store doubles so it's value is $0.50!
Total Price after sale and coupons = $1.23

$4.00 ~ 2 Juicy Juice Juice 8 pk. Boxes
- Retail Price: $2.99 each
- Sale Price: 2/$5.00
- I have one coupon worth $1.00/2
Total Price after sale and coupons = $4.00

$3.98 ~ 2 Northland 100% Cranberry Juice
- Retail Price: $3.99 each
- Sale Price: $2.99 each
- I have two coupons worth $1.00/1 each
Total Price after sale and coupons = $3.98 (I get one FREE, plus save a penny!)

$3.16 ~ 4 Muir Glen Organic Canned Tomatoes (28 oz)
- Retail Price: $2.99 each
- Sale Price: $1.79 each
- I have four coupons valued at $1.00 off each
Total Price after sale and coupons = $3.16

$3.58 ~ 2 Edy's Ice Cream
- Retail Price: $4.09 each
- Sale Price: $2.79
- I have two coupons worth $0.50 off each but again my store doubles coupons so their value is $1.00 each
Total price after sale and coupons = $3.58

$3.98 ~ 3 Green Giant Vegetables
- Retail Price: $2.99 each
- Sale Price: 3/$4.98
- I have one coupon valued at $1.00 off
Total price after sale and coupons = $3.98

$2.98 ~ 2 5-lb bags of Yukon Gold Potatoes
- Retail Price: $2.99 each
- Sale Price: $1.49 each
Total Price: $2.98

$1.50 ~ Lettuce
- Retail Price: $1.99
- Sale Price: $1.50

$1.99 ~ Broccoli (fresh)
- Retail Price: $2.49
- Sale Price: $1.99

$10.00 ~ Chicken Breast
- Retail Price: $2.99/lb
- Sale Price: $1.23
(This is an estimate, because I don't know how many pounds are in each package)

$2.99 ~ Tortillas
- Retail Price: $3.99
- Sale Price: $2.99

$0.50 ~ 2 Orbit Chewing Gum
- Retail Price: $1.99 each
- Sale Price: 2/$0.99
- I have a B1G1 Coupon on these
Total Price estimate: $0.50

Grand Total: $44.05
Total Savings: $29.44
Total Number of Items: 28

The greatest thing is, my list is so small because I've been using coupons for about two months and I've stocked up on most everything! I really recommend checking out America's Cheapest Family as well as Coupons to Free Groceries, as you can see, they have really helped me cut down on my grocery spending.

This time last year, I was spending over $200 every week on groceries. Now, with using coupons and shopping the sales, my weekly budget is down to $100.00 and you can see I don't even need it that high!

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Quick and Easy 20-Minute Chicken Posole ~ Dinner 2/10/08

2008-02-10T11:52:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
1 (15 ounce) can white hominy
1 (7 ounce) can chopped green chile peppers, drained
1 (2 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
3/4 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast meat - cut into cubes

Directions
In a large pot over medium heat, combine oil, onion, garlic, oregano and cumin. Cook, covered, 5 minutes, until onions are tender.
Stir in broth, hominy, chile peppers and olives. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium. Stir chicken into pot. Cover and cook until chicken is no longer pink, 5 to 10 minutes.

Serve over pasta of your choice.

Recipe Source: http://family.go.com/food/recipe-ar-16672-quick-and-easy-20-minute-chicken-posole-t/?CMP=KNC-YahSSPFamily

Enjoy :)

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I just found the ebook of the century!

2008-02-10T11:37:00.000-05:00

Ok, we all know how I feel about ebooks...I hate them, but for some reason can't stay away from them!! This morning I was looking through some new ebooks for saving money on groceries and more tips for couponing. (Yes, couponing can become an addiction...it really can!)

Anyway, I stumbled across this e-book called Coupons to Free Groceries and boy am I glad I did! Their copy page is beautiful and so full of facts and information that I just had to buy the book and let me tell you it was worth it!

First off, I want to suggest that you visit their website, even if you don't want to buy the book. Because they are giving away a Free Power Shopping Mini Course and a weekly newsletter that teaches you to get atleast one thing free at the grocery store EVERY WEEK!! Both of these things are completely FREE whether you buy the book or not!

The book itself not only teaches you how to save 40%-70% off your grocery bill, but there are special sections to help you learn to pay off your debt within months and save more money!

If you would like to learn more about this book visit CouponstoFreeGroceries.com right away, because they are offering this e-book for only $19.00 as an introductory price!! Believe me when I say, it's worth way more than that!

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FYI! Crockpot for $9.99!!

2008-02-09T09:05:00.000-05:00

I use my crock pot quite often and frankly, there are some day's I just don't think I could live without it!! Mine is getting rather old and I really need to buy a new one, so I've been searching! I just noticed this morning that Crockpot.com has Crock-Pot Slow Cookers from $9.99, I think I might buy one, but I was wondering, do any of you have this brand? Do you like it?

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How to Wash Your Child’s Favorite Stuffed Animal or Doll

2008-02-09T08:58:00.000-05:00

Just about every kid has one...the dreaded "baby doll" that they just can't leave the house without. Yet, every time you go somewhere, you cringe in humiliation and embarrassment because the stuffed animal or doll is just so dirty and gross. You wish so badly that you could figure out a way to get the doll clean, but know it's impossible to put it in the washing machine for a quick "whirlpool" bath because there are threads hanging from everywhere and you are just sure it will fall apart.

Read More about How to Wash Your Child’s Favorite Stuffed Animal or Doll

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Simple Lasagna with Hearty Tomato-Meat Sauce ~ Dinner 2/9/08

2008-02-09T08:10:00.000-05:00

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped fine
6 medium cloves garlic, minced or pressed through garlic press
1/3 pound ground beef chuck
1/3 pound ground veal (see note)
1/3 pound ground pork
1/2 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 (28 ounce) can tomato puree
1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk or part skim)
2 1/2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 no-boil lasagna noodles
16 ounces whole milk mozzarella, shredded

Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 375 degrees F.
Heat oil in large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 2 minutes; add onion and garlic, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned, about 2 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Increase heat to medium-high and add ground meats, salt, and pepper; cook, breaking meat into small pieces with wooden spoon, until meat loses its raw color but has not browned, about 4 minutes. Add cream and simmer, stirring occasionally, until liquid evaporates and only fat remains, about 4 minutes. Add pureed and drained diced tomatoes and bring to simmer; reduce heat to low and simmer slowly until flavors are blended, about 3 minutes; set sauce aside. (Sauce can be cooled, covered, and refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat before assembling lasagna.)

Mix ricotta, 1 cup Parmesan, basil, egg, salt, and pepper in medium bowl with fork until well-combined and creamy; set aside.

Smear entire bottom of 9- by 13-inch baking dish with 1/4 cup meat sauce. Place 3 noodles on top of sauce. Drop 3 tablespoons ricotta mixture down center of each noodle. Level by pressing flat with back of measuring spoon. Sprinkle evenly with 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Spoon 1 1/2 cups meat sauce evenly over cheese.

Repeat layering of noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce two more times. Place 3 remaining noodles on top of sauce, spread remaining sauce over noodles, sprinkle with remaining cup mozzarella, then with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan. Lightly spray a large sheet of foil with nonstick cooking spray and cover lasagna. Bake 15 minutes, then remove foil. Return lasagna to oven and continue to bake until cheese is spotty brown and sauce is bubbling, about 25 minutes longer. Cool lasagna about 10 minutes; cut into pieces and serve.
Yield: 6 servings

Source: http://food.yahoo.com/recipes/cooks-illustrated/115076/simple-lasagna-with-hearty-tomato-meat-sauce

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Speedy Layered Chicken Enchilada Pie ~ Dinner 2/8/08

2008-02-08T09:05:00.000-05:00

1 (11.5 ounce) package Old El Paso(R) Flour Tortillas for Burritos
2 cups cubed cooked chicken
1/2 cup uncooked instant white rice
8 ounces shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese
1 (15 ounce) can Progresso(R) Black Beans, drained, rinsed
1 (19 ounce) can Old El Paso(R) Red Enchilada Sauce
1 cup Green Giant(R) Frozen Shoepeg White Corn, thawed
1 cup Old El Paso(R) Thick 'n Chunky Salsa
2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
Reduced fat sour cream (optional)
Chopped green onions (optional)

Heat oven to 350 degrees F Spray 9-inch round (2-quart) glass baking dish or casserole with nonstick cooking spray. Cut 5 of the tortillas in half. Cut remaining tortillas into 2 1/2-inch-wide strips. In large bowl, combine chicken, rice, 1 cup of the cheese, beans and 1 cup of the enchilada sauce; mix well.
Layer 4 tortilla halves in bottom of sprayed baking dish. Top with 1/4 cup enchilada sauce and half of the chicken mixture. Top with 2 tortilla halves; fill in empty spaces with 3 tortilla strips. Spoon corn over tortillas. Spread salsa over corn. Layer with 2 tortilla halves and 3 strips. Top with remaining half of chicken mixture. Continue layering with remaining 2 tortilla halves and strips, enchilada sauce, cheese and 2 tablespoons green onions.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 35 to 45 minutes or until mixture is thoroughly heated and cheese is melted. Cool 5 minutes. Top with sour cream and green onions.
Yield: 6 servings

Source: http://food.yahoo.com/recipes/pillsbury-bakeoff/11479/speedy-layered-chicken-enchilada-pie

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Smiling Boys Food

2008-02-07T12:45:00.000-05:00

Sick and tired of hearing "Mac n Cheese" every time you ask what your little boy would like to eat for lunch or dinner...or even breakfast? Read Article

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DIY Miniature Notepad Wedding Favors

2008-02-07T12:44:00.000-05:00

Wouldn't you like to give your wedding guests a wedding favor other than the standard votive candle or after dinner mints? How giving them something they can use AFTER your wedding?
Read Article

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Recycle Your Way to Lower Home Heating Costs

2008-02-07T12:42:00.000-05:00

Are you sick and tired of chopping kindling wood to start the woodstove everyday? Well, chop no more! I've got the answer for you! Recycle your drier lint and old egg cartons! Read Article

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How to Make Spicy Chocolate Chip Cookies

2008-02-07T12:41:00.000-05:00

Are you longing for a new chocolate chip cookie recipe? Maybe you want something with a little more flavor than your basic chocolate chip cook recipes found in cookbooks? Read More

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How to Make Your Own Detoxifying Foot Pads

2008-02-07T12:40:00.000-05:00

Wake up every morning from here on out, feeling healthy, energized and prepared to start the day!

http://www.ehow.com/how_2196665_own-detoxifying-foot-pads.html

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Spaghetti & Meat Sauce ~ Dinner 2/7/08

2008-02-07T12:35:00.000-05:00

INGREDIENTS:
1 to 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef (or use a mixture of Italian sausage and beef)
1 large onion, coarsely chopped
1 large bell pepper, coarsely chopped (I used a mixture of red and yellow)
1 medium zucchini, halved and sliced about 1/4-inch thick
8 ounces fresh mushrooms, coarsely chopped or sliced about 1/4-inch
1/3 cup beef broth bouillon, base, or water
2 (to 3) tablespoons instant tapioca
1 can (15oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (7oz) tomato sauce
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon basil, dried
1/2 teaspoon pepper, black or seasoned
dash of crushed red pepper
1 tablespoon sugar or honey

PREPARATION:
Brown meat and onions; combine with remaining ingredients (2 Tbs tapioca) in a 3 1/2-quart or larger Crock Pot. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours, or about half the time on high. Add another tablespoon of tapioca if the sauce seems thin (it will be thinner if cooked on low).

Serve on spaghetti and pass the Parmesan!
Serves 4 to 6.

Source: http://southernfood.about.com/od/crockpotsauces/r/bl67c2.htm

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Sound Off!! Dinner 2/5/08

2008-02-05T11:00:00.000-05:00

I want to hear your recipes! Since I've started homeschooling, I haven't had quite as much time to do my "great" recipe searches this week...so please share yours!!

If you think you have a great recipe that my family would love, post a link to it in the comment section below :)

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White Lies ~ Jayne Ann Krentz

2008-02-04T08:21:00.000-05:00

I wanted to tell you all about this really great book I just finished reading. Now, keep in mind that I'm a reader...I will read anything you put in front of me, but this was by far, one of the best books I've read in a long time.

The book is called White Lies and it's written by Jayne Ann Krentz.

White lies takes place in modern day, but the main charachters of the story are all members of the "Arcane Society", a group of people that have paranormal senses. It's a toss up between romance and suspense, but the book was just so hard to put down, I had to recommend it to all of you!

Enjoy!

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Free Samples for Today ~ 2/4/08

2008-02-04T08:09:00.000-05:00

Sample Of Jergens Shea Butter Skin Enriching Moisturizer

Sample Of Dove Cream Oil Body Lotion

Sample Of Shaklee's Energy Tea

Sample Of 2x Ultra Tide with Dawn

Three Day Sample Of TheraCran

Sample Of Nexxus Hair Care Trio

Free One Year Subscription To Disney's "Family Fun" Magazine

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10 - Year Old Veterinarian!!

2008-02-04T08:02:00.001-05:00

The other day I saw this video on the featured news of Yahoo. I couldn't believe it when I heard that this little girl, just 10 years old, is a licensed veterinarian technician! Apparently she got her degree online in just 8 months!!

You've got to see it to belive it, watch the video here!

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Baked Potato Soup ~ Dinner Menu 2/4/08

2008-02-04T07:52:00.000-05:00

"This recipe resembles Hard Rock Cafe and Houlihan's baked potato soup...It is great! "

Ingredients
4 cups Diced baked potato
2 tablespoons Butter
2 cups Diced onion
1/3 cup Flour
5 cups Water
1/4 cup Low sodium chicken base
1 cup Instant potato flakes
3/4 teaspoon Dried basil
1/2 teaspoon Hot sauce
1 cup Half n half cream
1 cup Lowfat milk
Salt and Pepper, to taste

Preparation
Preheat oven to 400*

Prick washed potatoes and bake until a fork pierces to the center easily, but do NOT overcook...Remove the skin and dice into 1/2 inch cubes...

Melt butter in large saucepan. Add onions and saute over low heat for 10 minutes or until onions are translucent...Do NOT burn the onions...If this happens, discard, wash pan and start over....

Add flour to onion and butter mixture and cook until flour is absorbed and slightly thickened...

In a separate container, combine water, chicken base, potato flakes and seasoning...Stir or whisk to eliminate lumps...Add this mixture to onion mixture, stirring constantly...Increase heat to medium and continue cooking until soup begins to simmer...BE SURE THERE ARE NO LUMPS...

Add milk and cream, stirring until smooth and lightly thickened. Simmer for 15 minutes, but DO NOT BOIL or SCALD...

Add cubed potatoes and stir to combine, remove from heat and serve...

Top each bowl with grated Cheddar Cheese, sliced scallions and bacon pieces....

Source: http://www.mealsmatter.org/recipes-meals/recipe/19788

Enjoy :)

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Brown Sugar Meatloaf ~ Dinner Menu 2/2/08

2008-02-02T08:04:00.000-05:00

INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
3/4 cup milk
2 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
3/4 cup finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 5x9 inch loaf pan.
Press the brown sugar in the bottom of the prepared loaf pan and spread the ketchup over the sugar.
In a mixing bowl, mix thoroughly all remaining ingredients and shape into a loaf. Place on top of the ketchup.
Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour or until juices are clear.

Serve with Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans.

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Yea! We made it through our first week!

2008-02-01T12:39:00.001-05:00

I can't believe week 1 of homeschooling is over! Let me just say that the beginning experience has been hectic, but we loved it!

The most unbelievable part is, I have my sweet little girl back. The saracastic, rude girl that lived her last week is gone, in just a few days time! Now, don't get me wrong, she is by no means perfect and there have certainly been minor complications this past week, but there is no attitude, no sarcasm and she isn't being consistantly mean to her sister anymore!

I finally got in contact with our local Homeschooling Group, unfortunately, right now, their meetings are almost an hour away from me, so we won't be going to them yet, but when the weather warms up they are planning to have them at a local park, just 15 minutes from me! But lucky for me, the woman who runs it only lives a few miles from me and has a child my daughter's age, so hopefully, we'll be able to set up some play dates :)

Again, any tips or tricks for homeschooling a first grader are very well appreciated! Just leave them in the comment section below :)

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Leftover Chicken Breast Parmesan Subs ~ Dinner Menu 2/1/08

2008-02-01T08:53:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorite recipes and the best part is the recipe is mine :) I made it up!

Click below to get the recipe, I've posted it on AC as well :)

Leftover Chicken Breast Parmesan Subs

Enjoy :)

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Home Remedies for Bronchitis

2008-01-30T10:11:00.000-05:00

There are little gremlins beating away at their drums inside your head, definitely a waterfall inside your nose and you are absolutely sure that someone (a really big someone) is standing on your chest, just below the collarbone. It sounds like you might have bronchitis! READ MORE

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Broke on Valentine's Day?

2008-01-30T10:09:00.000-05:00

Free Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

Valentine's Day is about love, it's not supposed to be about material items or gifts. However, in today's world, it seems we turn every day into a reason to purchase another a material thing. So, for those of us (I'm one of you, I really am!) who feel we need to have a material item to give on Valentine's Day, take a broad look around your home and think of things that the recipients would love. It's not about the dollar amount spent, but the love spent giving it. READ MORE

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Garlic Lemon Chicken with Linguini ~ Dinner 1/30/08

2008-01-30T07:48:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:

Juice and finely shredded peel of 1 lemon
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cup heavy whipping cream
4 cups hot, cooked linguini
Chopped fresh parsley

Method

In a bowl combine lemon juice and peel, garlic, basil, salt, pepper, and half of the olive oil; add chicken breasts. Cover and marinate in refrigerator about an hour. Remove chicken; discard marinade. Heat remaining oil in large skillet and cook chicken breasts about 5 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove and set aside. To the same pan add cream. Heat and whisk to scrape up browned bits in bottom of skillet; let simmer about 5 min. Cut chicken into thin slices; return to pan. Add cooked linguini; toss to mix. Transfer to serving plate and sprinkle with parsley to garnish.

Source: http://easy.betterrecipes.com/garliclemonchickenwithlinguini.html

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Today's Freebies ~ 1/30/08 ~ Ending Soon!!

2008-01-30T07:12:00.000-05:00

These are some offers I forgot to post yesterday, but they are ending soon, so get yours ASAP!!

Free DiorKiss Lip Gloss Gift Set...

Free Russell Stover Valentines Chocolates
Comes In a Decorative Heart Box ~

Free Bottle of Bath & Body Works Lotion!
No S&H...
No Limit...
While Supplies Last...

Free Lipton Cup-A-Soup
~ While Supplies Last

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Homeschooling...

2008-01-29T09:36:00.000-05:00

Well, guess what?! My entire world tipped on it's axis yesterday, when my 6 year old daughter finally proclaimed that she doesn't want to go to school anymore. For months we have been discussing homeschooling, because we feel our daughter isn't getting challeneged enough in school and she's constantly complained that she isn't learning anything and she's bored.

My husband and I sat her down awhile ago and told her that the decision to home school was hers to make. We would make every effort to teach her everything she wants to learn at home and so on. BUT now that it's finally here, I don't know what to do, I'm petrified!!

Right now, we are doing a "trial run". We are going to try it out from now until the end of this school year (June) and see how she likes it, how she progresses, etc. If it doesn't work out, she will go back to public school in September, but hopefully it will :)

We joined Time4Learning, which seems to be a really great program, but since we just joined yesterday, I don't have much to report. (If you'd like to check our their website, they show many positive customer reviews! http://www.time4learning.com)

Anyway, does anyone have any advice for us? Where do we start? Do you know of any good websites that offer free information or help?

Thanks!

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Mini Taco Bowls ~ Dinner Menu & Recipe 1/29/08

2008-01-29T09:14:00.000-05:00

8 TACO BELL HOME ORIGINALS Flour Tortilla
1 pound extra lean ground beef
1 cup TACO BELL HOME ORIGINALS Salsa
1/2 cup KRAFT 2% Milk Shredded Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese
2 cups chopped lettuce
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1/4 cup KRAFT Ranch Dressing

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Microwave tortillas on HIGH 30 sec. or until softened. Press 1 tortilla into each of eight medium muffin cups to form a bowl. Carefully fold edges of tortilla back to keep an opening for the filling. Bake 10 min.
Meanwhile, brown meat in large skillet on medium heat; drain. Stir in salsa; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 10 min. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture into each tortilla bowl.
Top evenly with cheese, lettuce and tomatoes. Drizzle with dressing.

Source: http://food.yahoo.com/recipes/kraft/94521/mini-taco-bowls

Enjoy :)

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No Dinner Menu Today...but! 1/28/08

2008-01-28T08:10:00.000-05:00

I don't have a dinner menu today because we are visiting and eating with my mother in law after dance class.

However! I found a really great new recipe resource for you :)

http://www.mygoodrecipes.com/

I came across the site while browsing this past week and found a lot of really great recipes, as well as tricks and tips for cooking!

Enjoy :)

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Awesome Lasagna Pie ~ Dinner Recipe 1/26/08

2008-01-26T10:41:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry for the lack of posting...as usual, I have my hands in too many "pots" so to speak, and I just don't seem to have time for everything...I need an extra 24 hours each day :)

Anyway, I hope to get back on track soon and when I do, I'll share with you my latest project...which will benefit all of you in the long run :) The best part is...it's FREE!

Tonight's dinner recipe is something I've never tried, but it sounded good :)

Awesome Lasagna Pie

INGREDIENTS
1 pound lean ground beef
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup cottage cheese
1 cup milk
2 eggs
1/2 cup biscuit baking mix

DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Crumble the ground beef into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir until no longer pink. Drain and stir in the tomato paste, salt, and Italian seasoning. Set aside a little bit of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for the top; stir the rest into the ground beef. Set aside.

Spread cottage cheese into the bottom of a 9 inch pie plate. Spoon the ground beef mixture over the cheese. In a small bowl, stir together the milk and eggs. Blend in the biscuit mix until smooth. Pour over the top of the pie, covering completely.
Bake in the preheated oven until top is browned, about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top.

Enjoy :)

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Trying to Get Rid of Clutter!

2008-01-23T14:10:00.000-05:00

Are you a clutter bug? Or is your house neat as a pin?

Me? I'm a clutter bug...no doubt about it. I seem to hold onto everything and unfortunately, most of the time my house shows it. The funny thing is, we have only lived in our house for 5 1/2 years and it looks like we've lived here for 35 years!

This year, I decided my new year's resolution would be to become more organized and to declutter my home. Think it's been easy? No Way! So far, I've gotten about nothing done...well, that's not exactly true. My dear husband went out and bought me these really nice closet organizers with three shelves and three hanging rods...I just love them! So my closet is actually neat and organized :) While he was on his little shopping spree, he also picked up this really great 4 tiered shelf set up for our storage room, but I haven't finished organizing things onto that yet.

I've decided I need a manual (lol! Can you imagine, I need a manual to organize my home...not really a manual, more like a system), but with so many choices out there it's hard to pick! Granted you can learn a lot online free, but who has time to do all the searching? I did some minor searching and came across two ebooks that look promising, but I'm not sure which to go with...

Declutter Fast by Mimi Tanner

I think I like this one the best, she seems to have a lot of positive feedback on it, plus there is the added bonus of having access to an online site with even more information than the book!

However, the second one I found is called the Declutter Book and it is written in a step by step format, which I definately prefer..it's also a little bit cheaper than the first.

Can anyone recommend either of these?

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Coupon Codes ~ 1/16/08

2008-01-16T10:19:00.000-05:00

Try before you buy! Get 3 free samples with every Beauty.com order.

Free Shipping at BodenUSA.com

Save $20 on any online order of $75 or more at Catherines.com. Use promo code 776874406 at checkout. Expires 2-03-08.

Earn FREE Makeup for LIFE! at elf.com

Take 15% off all order $75 or more. Use Code LKS18TN5. Use Code 1.4-2.2

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Today's Freebies

2008-01-16T09:52:00.000-05:00

Free Burgers and Fast Food

Antivirus Coupons + Freebies

Free Hanes T-Shirts

Free New Winterfresh Mints

Free Eclipse Sugar Free Gum

Free Fruit-Flavored Gum

Free WalMart Gift Card

Sears Portait Printable Coupons

Free Butterfinger or Baby Ruth

Free Sample of Altoids Mints

Free Snickers or Hersheys Candy Bars

Free Chocolates

Free 250 Cards & Note Pads

Free Cabelas or Bass Pro gift card

Free Tiffany Heart Necklace

Freebie JLo Glow Perfume

Freebie One Box of KIX Cereal

Allegra - Free $140 Savings Packet

Free Groceries for a Year

Freebies Kellogg's Nutrigrain Cereal Bars Samples

Freebies $100 Restaurant Gift Card

Free 3 Packs Sample Of Chapstick Naturals

Free Arrid or Right Deoderant

Free Finding Nemo & The Cat In The Hat DVD

Free Vegetarian Starter Kit (You can download it NOW ~ FREE)

Free Weight Loss Plan Tailored for You .......

Free $5 Check ~ Sign up Bonus!!!! FusionCash pays you cash to be a product tester. There's a $5 signup bonus and you can get paid via PayPal or Check -- they pay every month, and you can continue earning money for years.

Free CLOROX Toilet Wand Cleaning System

Free ESTEE LAUDER TENDER Lip Balm ....

Free Cover Girl Mascara ....

Free Loreal Colour Juice Sheer Juicy Lip Gloss! .....

Free Sample For New Maybelline Define-A-Lash Mascara

Free Dove Body Care Kit

Giant Free Soup Sample ($17.00 Value)

Win a free Xerox Phaser 6180 Color Laser Printer

Free Personalized T-Shirt

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Beef Stir Fry ~ Dinner 1/16/08

2008-01-16T09:19:00.000-05:00

Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Beef stir fry is one of the well known dishes in Chinese restaurants today. Served with white rice, fried rice, or even sesame noodles, beef stir fry makes a delicious meal for lunch or dinner. The quick and easy beef stir fry recipe below uses boneless beef shoulder; however, you can use flank steak, sirloin, or even filet. The main thing to remember when using any cut of beef is to cut it against the grain. This will ensure that the pieces of meat remain tender. Try this wonderful beef stir fry recipe and let me know what you think either through the comment section of my bio page, or in the forum. Enjoy!

1.5 lb boneless beef shoulder

Marinade:
¼ tsp meat tenderizer
¼ tsp garlic salt
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 egg white
1tbsp cornstarch
½ tsp stir fry oil

12 oz bag of frozen vegetables
1 tbsp stir fry oil
5 tbsp soy sauce
½ cup chicken broth
1 ½ tsp cornstarch

Cut all the fat off of the meat and then cut it into long thin strips that are about 1 ½ inches long. As I stated above, when cutting the meat cut it across the grain so that it comes out tender and delicious!

Put the beef strips in a container with a tight lid and add the marinade in the following steps.

First add the meat tenderizer by sprinkling it sparsely so that it hits each piece of meat. Then sprinkle on the garlic salt in the same manner. Next add the soy sauce and stir.

Add the egg white and gently stir to coat each piece making sure not to froth the egg. Then sprinkle on the cornstarch coating each piece.

Finally add the ½ teaspoon of oil and stir to coat all of the meat. Let the meat marinate at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes.

While the meat is marinating, microwave the frozen vegetables just until they are warm. The Birds Eye Steam Fresh vegetables work very well for this recipe. Just microwave them for a minute less than required on the instructions. Remember, we want the vegetables to maintain their color and a slight crispness in the final dish.

Mix the cornstarch with the chicken broth and stir until the cornstarch is dissolved and set it aside.

Once the meat has marinated and the vegetables are defrosted, heat 1 tablespoon of stir fry oil on high in a non stick pot or wok.

Add the meat and stir fry for 4 minutes.

Add the vegetables and the soy sauce and stir fry for another minute. Then add the chicken broth and cornstarch mixture and stir until thick.

Makes 3 servings.

Source: http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art51478.asp

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Chicken Parm Meatball Subs ~ Dinner 1/15/08

2008-01-15T08:52:00.000-05:00

1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
1 tablespoon grill seasoning blend (recommended: Montreal Steak Seasoning by McCormick)
1 large egg
1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs
Handful of chopped parsley leaves
Extra-virgin olive oil, for liberal drizzling plus, plus 3 tablespoons, 3 turns of the pan
2 large cloves garlic, cracked from skin and split
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, a healthy couple of pinches
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, (recommended: San Marzano)
1 cup chicken stock
Salt and pepper
8 to 10 leaves fresh basil, torn or shredded
4 (6 to 8-inch) crusty sub rolls
1 1/2 cups shredded provolone

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Place chicken in a bowl and season with grill seasoning. Add egg, half of the grated cheese, bread crumbs, parsley, and a serious drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil to the bowl. Mix the meat and form 12 large meatballs. Squish the balls to flatten them a bit like mini oval meatloaves. Be careful not to form the balls wider than your bread. The flattened balls will stay put on your sub, no roll-aways! Bake the meatballs 15 minutes until golden and firm. Switch the broiler on.

While the meatballs bake, heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil and garlic and cook 5 minutes then remove the cloves. Add crushed red pepper flakes then tomatoes and stir in the chicken stock. Season the sauce with salt and pepper and simmer 10 minutes, adjust seasonings and stir in the basil. Reserve a extra sauce for dipping on dinner table.

Remove the meat from oven and loosen with a thin spatula. Turn meat balls in sauce.

Cut sub rolls making the bottom a little deeper than the top. Hollow out a little bread and lightly toast the sub rolls under broiler. Fill the bottoms of the breads with flattened balls and sauce. Combine the provolone and remaining Parmigiano. Cover the subs with cheese and return to broiler to melt the cheese until golden.

Source: Rachael Ray ~ http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_35728,00.html

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Win $5,000 dollars!

2008-01-14T11:11:00.000-05:00

I know most survey places on the web are scams, just begging to take your money so you can take a few survey's for 15 cents and call it another loss. But there is one that is worth looking into! Ipsos Survey Panel Their membership is free and they offer some really great prizes including their current grand prize...a chance to win $5,000 dollars!

Learn more here!

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No More Cat Litter Odors or Garbage!

2008-01-14T10:56:00.000-05:00

Several years ago, my husband and I had a cat and boy do I wish I had found this then! Unfortunately, my oldest daughter is allergic to cats, so we can't have any, but I thought maybe it would be helpful to some of you :)

It's called Perfect Litter and it's 100% Earth Friendly! This stuff has gotten great reviews on Animal Planet, HGTV, The Discovery Channel, as well as others! It claims to dissolve odor immediately, it turns pink if your cat has a urinary tract infection or another illness and the best part is! It's flushable! No more garbage!

For a limited time, they are giving away FREE 2 week trials. You do have to pay the shipping and handling, but it's only $3.95 and they deliver it right to you!

Watch the video on their website to learn more!

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Italian Meatloaf ~ Dinner Recipes 1/14/08

2008-01-14T10:42:00.000-05:00

Italian Meatloaf Recipe

This Italian style meatloaf recipe is made in the crockpot, with very lean ground beef, Italian sauce and seasonings, and Mozzarella cheese. Scroll down to see more meatloaf recipes, including several for the slow cooker.
INGREDIENTS:
2 pounds extra lean ground beef, or Laura's Lean Beef
2 cups soft bread crumbs, loosely packed
1/2 cup spaghetti sauce, your favorite
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons dried chopped onion or 1/4 cup finely minced onion
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, crushed, or use a mixture of oregano and basil
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoons spaghetti sauce
2 to 3 slices Mozzarella cheese, about 2 to 3 ounces

PREPARATION:
Fold a 30-inch long piece of foil in half lengthwise. Place in bottom of a slow cooker with both ends hanging over top edge of cooker. I also put a piece of crumpled foil in the bottom to keep the meatloaf out of the fat.

The foil strip will make it much easier to remove the meatloaf when it's done.
In a large bowl, mix ground beef with bread crumbs, 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce, egg, onion, salt, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and pepper until well blended. Shape into a loaf. Place in slow cooker. Spread 3 tablespoons spaghetti sauce over the loaf.

Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or on LOW for 5 to 6 hours, or until juices run clear. Top loaf with cheese slices, overlapping, and continue to cook (turn to HIGH if necessary) for 15 to 25 minutes longer.

Use ends of foil to lift out meat loaf and transfer to a serving platter.

Source: http://southernfood.about.com/od/crockpotgroundbeef/r/bl102c12.htm

Traditional Mashed Potatoes

INGREDIENTS
6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup butter or margarine
3/4 teaspoon salt
Dash pepper

DIRECTIONS
Place potatoes in a saucepan and cover with water. Cover and bring to a boil; cook for 20-25 minutes or until very tender. Drain well. Add milk, butter, salt and pepper; mash until light and fluffy.

Source: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Traditional-Mashed-Potatoes/Detail.aspx

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Stop a Cold in it's tracks with Sinus Irrigation

2008-01-10T08:17:00.000-05:00

A few months ago, I went to see an Ear Nose and Throat specialist because of constant sinus pressure and post nasal drip. While I was there I had a ct scan of my sinuses and they found that I have a cyst inside one sinus.

Of course the doctors first suggestion was prednisone, but since I am against taking any sort of steroid medication, I asked what else I could do. His suggestion? Nasal or Sinus Irrigation. Now, believe me when I tell you I never thought that putting something up your nose could feel so good!

Each day, morning and night, I have to use a nasal aspirator (you know, the little snot suckers we use on babies :) or a netti pot to push a salt water mixture up my nose and into my sinus cavities. It's very important to breathe through your mouth and not your nose, otherwise there is the risk of breathing the water into your lungs and choking, but it's not hard to remember to breathe through your mouth when your nose is full of water!! The salt water mixture recipe given to my by the doctor is very simple to make and you probably already have the ingredients on hand!

1 tsp. Kosher or Sea Salt
1 tsp. Baking Soda
12 oz. warm distilled water

Fill the netti pot or nasal aspirator with this mixture, then hanging your head over the sink, push two full squeezes into each nostril and let it drain into sink. Remember to breathe through your mouth!

This process has helped to rid me of post nasal drip, as well as sinus headaches and facial pain, as well as stopping the sniffles before they turn into a full blown cold! The best part about it is, after the initial purchase of a netti pot or a nasal aspirator, the cost is virtually nothing! You can buy a box of kosher salt at the grocery store for around a dollar that will last you a year or more and the same with the baking soda...distilled water? Boil your tap water for atleast 25 mintues, then let cool and you've got free distilled water!

The Homemaker Recommends

OR

Have you ever done sinus irrigation? Did you or do you have a good experience with it? What products would you recommend?

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