tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73291785673562947552024-02-20T09:38:42.434-08:00sew. cook . create.Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-74232929930263272912012-12-31T18:20:00.000-08:002012-12-31T18:20:46.635-08:00I can't contain my excitement!! 2012 is on it's way out, and 2013 is just a few hours away! I'm looking forward to turning the page and having a fresh start for this new year. How about you?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSRz0Nydi3MvT-d2X-HmT8wQGjb52BSvix43eF5H760ptD85vg_iQ5r0Eu7iymBvKjXLKKEXDoDe6OU6bYntj32-mZwu8zJ4ugyX-ofzxYFN7_wAZPt8FzZIjqpDy_kt-1Lqja9X2dA-Y/s1600/456898_737569054052_708091547_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSRz0Nydi3MvT-d2X-HmT8wQGjb52BSvix43eF5H760ptD85vg_iQ5r0Eu7iymBvKjXLKKEXDoDe6OU6bYntj32-mZwu8zJ4ugyX-ofzxYFN7_wAZPt8FzZIjqpDy_kt-1Lqja9X2dA-Y/s200/456898_737569054052_708091547_o.jpg" width="103" /></a>During 2012 my family made changes to our health by doing the 24 Day Challenge and using AdvoCare health and wellness products for the rest of the year. Tomorrow I will be ordering the Can You 24 fitness DVD. And on Wednesday, January 2, we'll begin our first 24 Day Challenge of the new year. I'd love it if you'd join us and experience the amazing results! Last April, I lost 10 pounds and 10+ inches. My husband lost 15+ pounds and several inches in his waist. And I found energy that I haven't had in quite a few years. All of this happened in 24 days! These products have changed the lives of my family and friends. (See some of their results <a href="http://vandoss.blogspot.com/2012/12/happy-2013-to-you.html">here</a>.)<br />
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<img src="http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/900_413240295419851_427356105_n.jpg" /><br />
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This is what I am so excited about . . .<br />
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1) The 24-Day Challenge will be discounted to $175 retail January 1-15, 2013. You can get it for even less with a membership discount.<br />
2) The Can You 24 DVD will be available January 1 at 10 a.m. Eastern Time for $29.95. Again, you can get it for even less with a membership discount.<br />
3) Brand new 72-Day Challenge & Beyond Bundle (includes products & the DVD) will be available. Sign up for the membership discount too, and you will be entered to win a trip to Hawaii!!<br />
4) Transformation Contest offering $40,000 in cash awards (must be signed up as a distributor to enter and be eligible). <br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Then make sure you go to </span><a href="http://www.advocare.com/canyou24/default.aspx"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12.800000190734863px; line-height: 17.98666763305664px;"> </span><span style="color: #3b5998;"><span style="background-color: white; cursor: pointer; font-size: 12.800000190734863px; line-height: 17.98666763305664px;">www.canyou24.com</span></span></a> for all the rules for the Transformation Contest, an outline of the 24-Day Challenge products, and watch a preview of the new DVD (be sure to look at all the helpful downloads included with the workout system). Then message <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mary.smithvannus">me</a> on Facebook on how to get started, get the membership discount, get a coach AND have a healthy life in 2013!!<br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.999998092651367px;" />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-18104806783222301452012-10-11T19:36:00.000-07:002012-10-11T19:40:22.514-07:00The Best Soup He's Ever Had . . . True!While most of my family is watching what they eat, the Boy that lives in my house can eat whatever he wants and never gain a pound. Currently his favorite food is Lucky Charms, easily putting away half a box each night! So when he said that the soup I made tonight was "the best soup I've ever had", I take that as a compliment.<br />
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Several recipes I've found on Pinterest are listed as "copycats" from a restaurant called <a href="http://www.caferio.com/">Cafe Rio</a>. Several blogs raved about the food at Cafe Rio! I want to go to Cafe Rio if this recipe is any indication of the food they serve. The recipe I followed from <a href="http://eatcakefordinner.blogspot.com/2012/09/copycat-cafe-rio-tortilla-soup.html">Eat Cake For Dinner</a> (I LOVE that name!) called for preparing Copycat Cafe Rio Tortilla Soup in the crockpot. Because I didn't get everything ready the night before to put it in the crockpot in the morning, I made mine in the oven and on the stove. There are several steps involved, but all your prep can be done in less than 30 minutes and then just let everything cook for about 1 1/2 hours. This soup is full of flavor & fresh ingredients. Leftovers are packed and ready for my lunch tomorrow. Happy girl!!<br />
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<b>Copycat Cafe Rio Tortilla Soup with Copycat Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken</b><br />
(slightly adapted from Eat Cake For Dinner) Serves 5-6<br />
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(Note: Start your chicken first, then the soup so the two parts will be ready at the same time.)<br />
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<b>Tortilla Soup</b><br />
1 medium onion, finely chopped<br />
2 medium carrots, peeled and shredded (or finely chopped)<br />
1 1/2 cups frozen corn<br />
3 Tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped<br />
5 cups low sodium chicken broth<br />
1 cup water<br />
1 tsp cumin<br />
dash of cayenne pepper<br />
1 tsp chili powder<br />
pepper to taste<br />
juice of 1/2 lime<br />
Pepper Jack cheese, shredded<br />
Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken (recipe below; start chicken before soup)<br />
Pico de Gallo (recipe below)<br />
Guacamole (recipe below)<br />
Tortilla chips or strips<br />
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In large pot, combine chicken broth and water. Add onion, carrots, corn and cilantro. Add spices and lime juice. Bring to a boil. Turn heat down to medium low and simmer for 1 hour.<br />
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To serve: In individual bowls, layer chicken, pico, a scoop of guacamole, and shredded cheese. Ladle broth directly over layers. Garnish with tortillas. <br />
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<b>Copycat Cafe Rio Shredded Chicken</b><br />
1 1/2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts<br />
3/8 cup low sodium chicken broth<br />
1/2 c. Italian salad dressing<br />
1/2 Tbsp chili powder<br />
1 tsp onion powder<br />
1/2 tsp garlic powder<br />
1/2 tsp paprika<br />
1/2 tsp cumin<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place chicken breasts in baking dish. Mix remaining ingredients and pour over chicken. Cover dish tightly with foil. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until chicken shreds easily. Remove from oven, shred with two forks and leave in broth.<br />
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<b>Pico de Gallo</b><br />
2 Roma tomatoes, finely chopped<br />
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped<br />
2 Tbsp chopped cilantro<br />
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Mix all ingredients together. Let sit 10-15 minutes to let flavors blend.<br />
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<b>Guacamole</b><br />
2 ripe avocados<br />
1 tsp. minced garlic<br />
juice from 1/2 a lime<br />
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste<br />
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Remove peel from avocados and mash with a fork. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Let sit 10-15 minutes to let flavors blend.<br />
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Enjoy!!<br />
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-78858037757186819632012-10-08T18:16:00.001-07:002012-10-08T18:57:47.844-07:00Since April when my family began their AdvoCare journey with the <a href="http://www.choosethechallenge.com/maryvannus">24 Day Challenge</a>, we've made a big change in what we eat. Being a Home Ec major back in the day, I did try to plan well balanced meals for my family, but I also loved to bake and cook "southern"! So coming up with healthier supper menus has been my responsibility. Thank goodness for Pinterest and so many blogs that share healthy, "clean eating" recipes. <br />
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This weekend I came across some new recipes that I decided to try, and I am glad I did. Tonight we had supper with a "Mexican" flair thanks to Nikki at <a href="http://chef-in-training.com/">Chef-In-Training.com</a>. Our menu tonight included Baked Chicken Enchiladas, Lime Cilantro Rice, and Avocada Salsa. Muy delicioso! Quick and easy too.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Baked Chicken Enchiladas</b></span></div>
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1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips) or tenderloins</div>
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1 (15 oz.) can diced tomatoes</div>
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1 (4 oz.) can diced green chilies</div>
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1 medium onion sliced</div>
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1 large green bell pepper, seeded and sliced</div>
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2 Tbsp. olive oil</div>
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2 tsp. chili powder</div>
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2 tsp. cumin (I just used 1 tsp - not my family's favorite spice)</div>
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1/2 tsp garlic powder</div>
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1/4 tsp. salt</div>
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1 pkg. flour tortillas (fajita size)</div>
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<li style="list-style: decimal inside; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 9x13 baking dish. </span></li>
<li style="list-style: decimal inside; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;">In a large bowl, mix together chicken, tomatoes, chilies, peppers, and onions in the dish.</span></li>
<li style="list-style: decimal inside; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;">In a small bowl combine the oil and spices. </span></li>
<li style="list-style: decimal inside; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Pour the spice mixture over the chicken and toss to coat. Pour into greased 9x13 pan and spread evenly across pan.</span></li>
<li style="list-style: decimal inside; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Bake covered for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Serve with warmed tortillas and any other desired toppings.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>Lime Cilantro Rice</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>1 Tbsp. Butter</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>1 Tbsp. Olive Oil</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>1 1/4 cups long grain white rice</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>Juice & zest from 1 large lime</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>2 1/4 cups chicken broth</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>2 Tbsp. chopped cilantro</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>3/4 tsp. salt</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>pepper to tast</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 31.100000381469727px;"><b>1/4 tsp. cumin</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Josefin Slab, serif; line-height: 27.766666412353516px;">Melt butter in skillet over medium high head. Add olive oil and rice. Stir for several minutes. Add liquic and other ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and cook for 20 minutes or until rice is done. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Josefin Slab, serif; font-size: large; line-height: 27.766666412353516px;"><b>Avocado Salsa</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.75px;">3 Avocados, diced chunky</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.75px;">1/4 cup chopped red onion</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.75px;">3 Roma Tomatoes, diced</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.75px;">1/8 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.75px;">1 Tbsp. Lime juice</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.75px;">1/4 tsp garlic, minced</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.75px;">1/8 tsp. pepper</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.75px;">Dice avocados, onion, tomatoes and cilantro. Add lime juice, pepper and garlic. Toss lightly to combine flavors. Serve as a dip, or on lettuce.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Josefin Slab, serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.75px;">Off to "pin" more recipes to try. </span></span></div>
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-46131597362601524542012-09-18T19:02:00.000-07:002012-09-18T19:02:41.873-07:00Peanut Butter is my New Chocolate!Ever since I can remember, I've loved to bake. Cookies, <b>brownies</b>, cakes, cupcakes, pies, bread, muffins - need I go on? I thought it was going to be really hard to give these things up since they weren't part of the 24 Day Challenge. Especially BROWNIES!! I actually made it through the 24 Days without any trouble at all. It's amazing how the cravings for sugar disappear when we put the right things in our body!<br />
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After completing my 24 Day Challenge, I started looking for healthy treats to bake. Things with less sugar and fat. After trying several recipes that used applesauce or bananas and not being thrilled, I came across two recipes that I really like. Peanut butter is the main ingredient for both of these. I've also substituted almond butter for part of the peanut butter, and that was absolutely delicious too. <br />
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<b>Flourless Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Blondies (detoxinista.com)</b><br />
1 cup natural creamy peanut butter<br />
1/2 cup honey<br />
1 whole egg<br />
1/4 teaspoon sea salt<br />
1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips<br />
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Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease an 8" square pan with butter or coconut oil. In a small bowl, mix peanut butter, honey, egg, salt and baking soda until well combined, then fold in chocolate chips. Pour/spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth with a spatula.<br />
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Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top of blondies is a light golden brown. Let cool and cut into bars. Enjoy!<br />
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<b>5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies </b><br />
1 cup natural peanut butter<br />
1 egg<br />
1/2 cup old fashioned oats<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
1/2 cup chocolate chips<br />
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Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix all ingredients together in a medium bowl. <br />
Roll into 1 inch balls, or drop by rounded teaspoonfuls on ungreased cookie sheet. Press the top of the cookies with the back of a fork to make a criss cross pattern. Bake 10-12 minutes until the top of the cookies start to look dry. Cool 1-2 minutes, then remove from cookie sheet and cool completely.<br />
(I can't find the blog or site where I originally found this recipe!! If it's yours, let me know so I can give you credit. Thanks!)<br />
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. Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-27214447369055985162012-06-03T19:59:00.001-07:002012-06-03T20:01:27.234-07:00Sparkalicious Summer Challenge - Ready to Join Us?<br />
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Well, it's Sunday night and I have mixed emotions - again. This happens to me every weekend. You know when you were growing up and your elders would tell you, "time flies when you're having fun" or "the older you get, the faster time goes". I now believe both of those statements. My weekends seem to fly by - whether I'm having fun or just trying to play catch up from all the things I wasn't able to do during the week. I'm always so sad to see the weekend end, but thankful that in this tough economy I have a job.<br />
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Now it seems it isn't just my weekends that fly by, but time in general. It's already June! Summer is here and that means vacations, time spent by the pool or at the lake, graduations, weddings & showers, and family get togethers. Before I know it, fall will be here! Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself. You're probably wondering where I'm going with this. It's coming, I promise.<br />
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Back in April I started the 24 Day Challenge and then posted my results in my blog back in May. Then my hubby started his very own 24 Day Challenge - and he had great results too. Lost at least 16 pounds and quite a few inches. He called one day from work and said he had to take his belt off and use the drill to make a new hole in it so he could keep his pants from falling off! In the past couple of days, I've had compliments from my children about how I look - can I tell you what a great feeling that is? <br />
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So now with summer here, we'd love to share the AdvoCare 24 Day Challenge with YOU! Our team, the SparkStars, is having a <span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Sparkalicious Summer Challenge</b></span> starting June 10 and running through July 3, 2012. Here's the info -<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #4c3a3a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 21px; text-align: center;">Now is the time to LOOK and FEEL the best you ever have! </b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Join us from June 10th - July 3rd and take the 24 Day Trim Challenge!</b></span></div>
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During the challenge prizes will be earned:<br />
$100 in AdvoCare products will go to biggest loser for % of inches lost.<br />
$100 in AdvoCare products will go to biggest loser for % of pounds lost.<br />
To be eligible for prizes you must email msvannus@yahoo.com a picture of yourself before beginning the Challenge and fill out the form <a href="http://vandoss.blogspot.com/p/sparkalicous-summer-challenge.html">here</a>!<br />
<a href="http://www.advocare.com/120417347/">Purchase the challenge</a> and get started!<br />
Be sure you receive a confirmation email after you sign up.</div>
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Have questions? Please send me an e-mail at mary.vannus@yahoo.com</div>
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<img alt="Inspiration!" src="http://media-cache5.pinterest.com/upload/230598443390602081_2Cme6vDh_b.jpg" />
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-45370207897529668792012-05-07T18:43:00.001-07:002012-05-07T18:43:40.742-07:00The Results Are In . . .A little over 24 days ago (April 5 to be exact) I started my 24 Day Challenge. If you <strike>were</strike> are my friend on Facebook, you might have grown a little weary of hearing about this 24 Day Challenge or a company called AdvoCare. I had never heard of AdvoCare until this past summer; actually it wasn't AdvoCare I heard about, it was one of their products -<i><b> Spark</b></i>! Well, I have come to know Spark up close and personal in the last 24+ days and it is now my friend. Spark is an "energy drink" of sorts, but without all the bad, chemically stuff that is in some of those other canned and bottled drinks. It is actually a vitamin and amino acid supplement and it enhances mental energy and focus, provides long-lasting energy, helps fight occasional drowsiness, has 45 calories in an 8 oz. serving, along with 21 vitamins, minerals and nutrients. I normally just have one Spark per day and can honestly say I have not experienced that afternoon slump that I did before April 5. I work on the computer for a good part of each day and I used to catch myself dozing off as I was typing (!!!), or at least yawning quite frequently. Those days are gone. I also used to have at least one glass of SWEET tea (I live in the South, y'all) a day. No sweet tea since April 5 . . . and I'm still alive. This is BIG! Okay, so enough about Spark.<br />
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There were also other new aquaintances I made during the Challenge. A box of Citrus Herbal Cleanse, a bottle of OmegaPlex (AMAZING & Important Omega 3 Fatty Acids that we all need), CHOCOLATE Meal Replacement Shakes (nothing at all like those canned "shakes" that you can buy), and a box of MNS Max 3 (Metabolic Nutrition System. . . helps with appetite control, energy and wellness and provides more than 50 vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, antioxidants and other nutrients for comprehensive health & wellness). All of these are part of the 24 day Challenge, and combined with exercise (not a whole lot - that's my next goal), and clean eating, I lost 9.5 pounds and a total of 11" inches in 24 days. I honestly and truly feel so much better and am fitting back in clothes that were packed away or pushed to the back of my closet. It's a great feeling! <br />
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Another result I got from the Challenge is that now my awesome husband is starting his own 24 Day Challenge (<strike>but I'm not supposed to tell anyone</strike>). When my daughters and I started, he said, "I'm not drinking that juice!". We decided he was referring to Spark. Well, I actually got Mr. Energy Drink Crasher (!!!) to give Spark a try and he likes it! He <strike>sometimes</strike> leaves for work at an incredibly early hour. One day last week he woke me up at 5:25 a.m. to ask if he could have his "shake". This really caught me off guard because he doesn't start drinking his "breakfast" shakes until day 11 (and he was just on day 2). I sleepily asked him what was he talking about and then after he described it to me, I realized he was talking about the fiber drink . . . which is not at all a shake! He will be in heaven when he starts his vanilla breakfast shakes.</div>
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Besides using AdvoCare products, my whole family has been eating much healthier and drinking lots of water. We even have some new favorite recipes - Salsa Chicken (boneless, skinless chicken breasts & a ar of salsa cooked in the crock pot!) and <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/jamie-easons-livefit-recipes-italian-turkey-burgers.html">Turkey/Zucchini Burgers</a> just to name a few. Now that my "Challenge" is done, I will continue using the MNS Max 3 vitamins/minerals, Spark, and Catalyst to keep feeling great.<br />
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I know the Challenge isn't for everyone at this point in their lives, but I really can't say enough good things about the products I've tried and the results I've experienced and have seen in others. Whether you are looking for more energy, wanting to lose those last few pounds, are involved with a sport or strenuous physical activity, or <b>just want to feel better</b>, there is a product that can help you achieve your goals and feel great!<br />
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If you've got questions or want to learn more about AdvoCare or any of their products, please send me a message at mary.vannus@yahoo.com or visit https://www.advocare.com/120417347/. I'd love to share what I know with you.<br />
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<br /></div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-37604751159613670782012-04-23T16:49:00.002-07:002012-04-23T16:56:07.259-07:00What's Cookin' on Day 19 of My 24 Day ChallengeHappy Monday y'all. Hope you've had a good day. Our weather has been a bit abnormal - wind<br />
blowing like crazy, and the temps dipping down in the 40's tonight . . . and it's almost May. <br />
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Tonight there were only two of us home for supper, so I decided to try something new. After we had a few bites, I told the Mr. thanks for eating all the "experiments" I've been cooking on the Challenge - did I mention it's day 19? The inches keep melting away and I've still got lots of energy. Luckily, he replied "no problem". Right answer. Guess he knows what's good for him! Here's what was on the menu . . . Salmon burgers, Zucchini pasta, and Avocado Tomato salad. I'm really enjoying all the fresh veggies.<br />
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<b>Salmon Burgers - </b><br />
3 small cans Pink Salmon, drained<br />
2 Egg Whites<br />
1/3 - 1/2 Oat Flour*<br />
1 tsp minced Garlic<br />
1 tsp chopped Cilantro<br />
juice from 1/2 Lime<br />
Kosher Salt & freshly ground Black Pepper<br />
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Mix salmon, egg whites and spices together. Add enough oat flour so the mixture will hold together. Shape into burgers - I got 4 good sized burgers out of this recipe. I cooked the burgers on my George Foreman grill for about 7 minutes, or until golden brown. <br />
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<b>Zucchini Pasta</b><br />
2 medium Zucchini, julienne sliced<br />
1 tsp minced Garlic<br />
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil<br />
Kosher Salt, Fresh Ground Black Pepper<br />
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Heat Olive Oil in skillet. Add minced garlic and stir for about a minute. Add julienned zucchini. Saute for 5-6 minutes until heated through. Season with Salt and Pepper.<br />
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Also tried out this recipe for <a href="http://gingerbreadbagels.com/2011/03/22/peanut-butter-banana-oatmeal-squares/">Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Squares.</a> I subbed unsweetened applesauce for the brown sugar, and unsweet almond milk for the milk. I added 2 packets of Stevia for a little more sweetness. <br />
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Thanks for stopping by! If you'd like to learn more about the AdvoCare 24 Day Challenge, go<a href="http://www.advocare.com/120417347/"> here</a> or leave me a comment.<br />
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-18264421679603272712012-04-21T11:04:00.000-07:002012-04-21T19:45:44.531-07:00Saturday, Chocolate & Tuna<br />
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<img alt="AdvoCare® Plastic Bags" height="115" src="https://www.advocare.com/Microsite/Images/Store/Products/1825.jpg" width="200" />Today is day 17 of my 24 Day Challenge with AdvoCare. I've lost a few pounds, quite a few inches, can feel my pants getting looser, and probably most important - feel awesome! Besides feeling the best I've felt in quite a few years, I am also eating healthier. I have been trying some great new recipes and have two more to share today. I started my morning off with a 30 minute walk, an awesome chocolate shake (with a spoonful of peanut butter), and then a trip to the grocery!</div>
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Recently I read a recipe for Chocolate Protein Bars (think brownies that are GOOD for you!) on Jamie Eason's <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/video-jamie-eason-chocolate-protein-bars.htm">blog</a> . One night this week I was going to make these, only to find that one of my sweet girls had put the vanilla whey protein container in the pantry . . empty! So, to satisfy my sweet tooth, I settled for a rice cake with peanut butter and a few mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top. Today I made sure I purchased the vanilla whey protein powder and came home and mixed these babies up & baked them! <br />
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<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f2/Persea_americana_fruit_2.JPG/220px-Persea_americana_fruit_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f2/Persea_americana_fruit_2.JPG/220px-Persea_americana_fruit_2.JPG" width="160" /></a>While the <strike>brownies</strike> protein bars were baking, I mixed up "twisted tuna" for lunch. Growing up in Florida, we actually had avocado and lime trees in our back yard. Most of the avocados you see in the grocery here are not the same kind of avocados we had. I think I remember my dad and granddaddy calling them alligator pears. They were huge - one of those Florida avocados would make about 3 of the little ones we buy on sale for 10/$10! Anyway, back to the recipe. This tuna salad can be adapted to your tastes. I think it might just be my new favorite thing for lunch! If you decide to try either of these recipes, let me know what you think please.<br />
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<b>Jamie Eason's Chocolate Protein Bars</b><br />
Here's what you will need to make this treat -<br />
1 cup Oat Flour*<br />
4 Egg Whites<br />
2 scoops Vanilla Whey Protein Powder<br />
1/2 cup Splenda, Truvia, or Ideal<br />
1/2 tsp Baking Soda<br />
1/4 tsp Salt<br />
8 oz Berry flavored Baby Food (I used Apple Blueberry)<br />
3 tbsp Cocoa<br />
4 oz Water<br />
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Directions:<br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
Mix dry ingredients together in bowl. In a separate bowl mix egg whites, baby food and water. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix together.<br />
Spray square baking dish with a non-stick butter spray and pour batter into dish.<br />
Bake 20 - 30 minutes.<br />
Makes 16 squares (1 serving = 2 squares).<br />
Nutrition Info: 96 calories, 1.4 grams Fat, 12 grams Carbs, 10 grams Protein.<br />
* An easy way to make Oat Flour is to grind up old fashioned oats in a coffee grinder or food processor until it is the consistency of flour. I store mine in the freezer.<br />
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<b>"Twisted" Tuna</b><br />
1 can water packed Tuna<br />
1 avocado<br />
1 stalk celery<br />
1/2 lime<br />
cilantro, kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper<br />
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Cut the avocado in half, remove the seed and peel. Put avocado in a mixing bowl and "smash" (like the technical term?) it with a form til smooth. Open the tuna, drain the water and add to bowl. Chop your celery and cilantro and add. Squeeze lime juice over all and mix well. Season to your like with kosher salt, fresh ground black pepper and more cilantro and lime juice if needed. <br />
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This would be great served on a bed of lettuce, stuffed into a pita pocket, wrapped in a tortilla or lettuce . . .<br />
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If you've got any questions about AdvoCare products or the 24 Day Challenge, you can find more info <a href="http://www.advocare.com/120417347/">here</a> or leave me a comment or send me an e-mail (mary.vannus@yahoo.com).<br />
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Hope you have a great weekend!<br />
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Mary<br />
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-34518739321378381172012-04-17T19:27:00.000-07:002012-04-17T19:27:04.463-07:00Changing How I CookToday is day 13 of my 24 Day AdvoCare Challenge. I've finished the 10-day cleanse, and now I'm in the "Max" phase where you fill your body with great things to help reset your metabolism. So in the midst of doing this Challenge, I've also changed what I'm eating (and what my family is eating - they have no choice, unless they are going to start cooking!). Now when I shop, I'm stocking up on fresh fruits & veggies and lean protein. My shopping path goes around the outside edges of the store - not up and down all the aisles. I've been a label reader since I did WW several years ago, but now rather than looking at just calories, fat & fiber, I'm looking at all the additives & preservatives that are added to our food. No wonder so many people are overweight! And I've not visited my favorite lunch spot - where the slogan is "eat more chicken" - in several weeks. Although on my last few visits before the Challenge, my lunch consisted of the grilled chicken nuggets, fruit cup & water so that wasn't too bad.<br />
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The first result I noticed just a few days into the Challenge was I was losing the bloated feeling around my midsection (how attractive) and how great I felt! If you need energy & focus and don't want to drink several cups of coffee, tea, energy or carbonated drinks, you should definitely try Spark. Got my hubby to give Spark a try (he loves his energy drinks and I hate the way he crashes). First he told me he wasn't going to drink the "juice", but he did, and he loves it.<br />
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By day 10, I'd dropped a few pounds and lost 9 inches overall. I'm positive several more pounds will be shed by the end of day 24, and more inches. This is actually the easiest thing I have ever done to lose weight/inches. I promise if you give it a try, you will not be hungry - you eat every 3 hours so your metabolism doesn't slow down.<br />
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I've been looking for new recipes . . . "clean" recipes that are pretty much food in it's natural state without all the salt, preservatives, chemicals, etc. We've had turkey - zucchini burgers from Jamie Eason's website. Also used this recipe, but changed it up and made meatballs to serve with spaghetti squash. Pretty yummy! We've also tried the Clean Pizza that can be found on He and She Eat Clean. Another hit at our house.<br />
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Tonight I created a crustless quiche (no white flour, no white sugar, etc.). Here's what I did.<br />
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Crustless Quiche -<br />
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Spray bottom of glass baking dish with Olive Oil Pam. Cover the bottom of the dish with a layer of baby spinach. Now go crazy - start slicing & shopping up all the veggies you love - I used zucchini, baby bella mushrooms, red & yellow peppers, roma tomatoes, Vidalia onions. Layer this on top of the spinach. Then I took about 1 1/2 cups of non-fat cottage cheese and spooned that over the top of the veggies. Because I did an 11 x 13 baking dish, I used 12 eggs. Crack the eggs in a bowl and whisk til mixed well. Stir in about 1/2 - 3/4 cup of unsweet almond milk. Add a pinch of salt and some fresh ground black pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the veggies. Bake at 375 for about 35 minutes (or til the eggs are set).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2TlDdVK1DUGatO5_MkEFVFPr9xRFD_5-Boi-6loEliE0qQ7-d4Llqxgh69sj-x6r8ImWdFlqWCUM0vBgEXIYNjV8qqLzn7VOhNetbYK3NYBaE2b0qAryEVAPXlt4ShETq_HOhvtfXoU/s1600/DSCN1504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2TlDdVK1DUGatO5_MkEFVFPr9xRFD_5-Boi-6loEliE0qQ7-d4Llqxgh69sj-x6r8ImWdFlqWCUM0vBgEXIYNjV8qqLzn7VOhNetbYK3NYBaE2b0qAryEVAPXlt4ShETq_HOhvtfXoU/s200/DSCN1504.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-HpTdxlB6hjq9aBaO7SdV864ST426xafPtEKEUFdXazuZ0OT_KPNAU9cNQg5qhw6j3oVd4eMfZVHGCG7lQbQE-XCagSNKuiBPdWZ3xCwilRbZtHj2psu5tR5Xe01Z9qlYFK341SmblbM/s1600/DSCN1505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-HpTdxlB6hjq9aBaO7SdV864ST426xafPtEKEUFdXazuZ0OT_KPNAU9cNQg5qhw6j3oVd4eMfZVHGCG7lQbQE-XCagSNKuiBPdWZ3xCwilRbZtHj2psu5tR5Xe01Z9qlYFK341SmblbM/s200/DSCN1505.JPG" width="200" /></a>I served this with link turkey sausage.<br />
Fast, easy & delish! Give it a try.<br />
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If you're interested in trying any of the AdvoCare products, or have questions, leave me a comment here or e-mail me at mary.vannus@yahoo.com<br />
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To learn about the many wonderful products AdvoCare offers, use this link - <a href="https://www.advocare.com/120417347/">https://www.advocare.com/120417347/</a>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-4433975254644230222012-04-09T18:30:00.000-07:002012-04-09T18:30:13.942-07:00A Month of Classes at Just Sew! Studio<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </div><br />
Things are getting busy at Just Sew! Studio. I am really enjoying sharing the art of sewing with some awesome young women. Some I've known since they were in elementary or middle school, and others I've only known as adults. Some are moms, and some aren't. Some are married, and others are single. I love hearing them say "this is stressing me out", and then see their faces light up when they realize they just accomplished what they thought they couldn't do. <div><br />
</div><div>We have a variety of classes on the calendar for April. All of them are perfect for a beginning sewer or someone who wants to freshen up those sewing skills they learned <strike>a few</strike> several years ago in home ec class. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkYjPBd1kzeRhQO2xpe3kaZvRfr1QFcW5ZY0UoKXoTnIRRaWqX_owzpIP-apsBUinz4ssxedjwvHwnpgX-VkWs9HdzuaSwMyCKFYXsEDL5DGrUXB1ANuNjjduTMZaVds0AYQio1h1mcQk/s1600/DSCN1492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkYjPBd1kzeRhQO2xpe3kaZvRfr1QFcW5ZY0UoKXoTnIRRaWqX_owzpIP-apsBUinz4ssxedjwvHwnpgX-VkWs9HdzuaSwMyCKFYXsEDL5DGrUXB1ANuNjjduTMZaVds0AYQio1h1mcQk/s200/DSCN1492.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div>The first class is an Accessories class on Saturday, April 14. We'll do a little machine sewing, some hand stitching, and use the glue gun! A variety of fabrics and ribbons will be available so you can use your design skills and make two original hair bows, a headband with fabric flower, and a hair clip. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/538452_394616487223444_194946753857086_1438402_279939120_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/538452_394616487223444_194946753857086_1438402_279939120_n.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">I'm so excited that we are using some of this great designer fabric by Jennifer Paganelli & Riley Blake for the Tank Top Dress class on Friday, April 20. This was one of the most popular classes offered last year. We start with a ready made tank top, shirr up one of these cute prints and stitch them together for a super easy, comfy & stylish dress. Perfect for spring & summer!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><a href="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/293703_394613537223739_194946753857086_1438382_1844850303_n.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/293703_394613537223739_194946753857086_1438382_1844850303_n.jpg" width="186" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Aren't they great? Can't decide which is my favorite!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Moms & Grandmas, there's another opportunity for you to sew a sweet spring dress for your special girl. On Saturday, April 21 we'll be making peasant dresses. This is another easy dress that goes together without any trouble; almost as easy as a pillowcase dress!</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And on Saturday, April 28 we will learn how to applique. I'm coming up with a few designs for boys in this class too, so come stitch up something for your little man. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you're interested in any of these classes, please check our Facebook page for the links to sign up for any of these classes.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sweet Stitches,</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mary</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</span></span></div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-56193413852938540472012-03-14T19:25:00.001-07:002012-03-15T05:37:01.431-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7E2O7QNME2SolaFoKCapXUzzmzzNPOZqZOn1_bTjiqnVrA2_q9ZotVb2jABMhz3NPb0YQtM4mCcVkH3ZPUVTm8C-TOMTjYis4x4rpudaTjA-RbC_U8qdoITvF_5xejQSUiXu8HGj8_8/s1600/WILW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7E2O7QNME2SolaFoKCapXUzzmzzNPOZqZOn1_bTjiqnVrA2_q9ZotVb2jABMhz3NPb0YQtM4mCcVkH3ZPUVTm8C-TOMTjYis4x4rpudaTjA-RbC_U8qdoITvF_5xejQSUiXu8HGj8_8/s200/WILW.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Well, it's Wednesday again so that means I'm linking up with LittleDaisyMay for What I'm Loving Wednesday. <br />
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I'm loving the beautiful weather we are having this week. Is it really the middle of March? I love the way the world is turning green, and having the windows open and listening to the froggy chorus coming from our pond.<br />
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Aren't these some of the prettiest eggs you've ever seen? I'm loving them and the sweet "egg lady" who sells me a dozen of these every week.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8CdKW3n4f2Xrd0K-IUapL7wXQgBYQuMekbeYb_6Z7grUdU-JKds6P9FAT8m3rg-p9B_hZ4OW1L2kk9PMu0Mabiqz_WRWJT-ushhecgCk-WoDMT1ZQQoamtxNQUEslcR3QqCfd6n_JEg/s1600/DSCN1474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8CdKW3n4f2Xrd0K-IUapL7wXQgBYQuMekbeYb_6Z7grUdU-JKds6P9FAT8m3rg-p9B_hZ4OW1L2kk9PMu0Mabiqz_WRWJT-ushhecgCk-WoDMT1ZQQoamtxNQUEslcR3QqCfd6n_JEg/s320/DSCN1474.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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Want to learn how to sew? Then I would highly recommend this book to you. It explains everything there is to know about a sewing machine. I found it at my local library and am definitely ordering my own copy.<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7ROb7P5fuKm69eB45KbG8ALC4tsyitMDzVUd_dP9oRe6eLlRLYngPE469ArAE2LnXTQS_rhsKuau4z6DwAkSV8DoFa1jemCManW6-UtXsjjtuOLQJODj9jSRfswQUG9WhO3GwrIMNoc/s1600/DSCN1472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7ROb7P5fuKm69eB45KbG8ALC4tsyitMDzVUd_dP9oRe6eLlRLYngPE469ArAE2LnXTQS_rhsKuau4z6DwAkSV8DoFa1jemCManW6-UtXsjjtuOLQJODj9jSRfswQUG9WhO3GwrIMNoc/s1600/DSCN1472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7ROb7P5fuKm69eB45KbG8ALC4tsyitMDzVUd_dP9oRe6eLlRLYngPE469ArAE2LnXTQS_rhsKuau4z6DwAkSV8DoFa1jemCManW6-UtXsjjtuOLQJODj9jSRfswQUG9WhO3GwrIMNoc/s320/DSCN1472.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am loving my new 31 bag. It is BIG & has lots of pockets to keep things organized!! Love, love love!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And finally, I'm loving this picture of my babies when they were little.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/419239_698660287532_51100646_34401552_1712458449_n.jpg" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What are you loving this Wednesday?</div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-17338369101754952452012-03-07T18:19:00.002-08:002012-03-07T19:47:13.337-08:00<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1eBWHEinmbhHNm5VwFkB5Pp6fHuWeG-RPXIws8bMbouzeY__EewceriF06KgaPFUWnDWnOkbgPZb2lQ3lCdM2p9LpJ3y0AwL-35GFKlBg9eph4w7aL3H-eY06nHzmYHRoo69kI9R3zQ4/s1600/WILW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1eBWHEinmbhHNm5VwFkB5Pp6fHuWeG-RPXIws8bMbouzeY__EewceriF06KgaPFUWnDWnOkbgPZb2lQ3lCdM2p9LpJ3y0AwL-35GFKlBg9eph4w7aL3H-eY06nHzmYHRoo69kI9R3zQ4/s200/WILW.jpg" width="200" /></a>It's Wednesday so I'm going to link up with What I'm Loving Wednesday over at LittleDaisyMae.blogspot.com. </div><br />
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</div>I'm loving that I found a recipe that I had misplaced for Zucchini Muffins and I have some time to do some baking tonight. This is a recipe from my sweet Mom. I'm loving that she taught me how to cook! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggrx6SEZ_coCISGh-EeCAarSYYXcKdRsNV85FsQBDSyMgzv8ds2slP1ph58xNxq-PmLIKfR1xxFtrqt_HTXeIxBuF7eOWXMaDM2nyitQPSvxaFeXgM_hVz3Ymrt0qMQr0vL7bdfEmTK4/s1600/DSCN1455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggrx6SEZ_coCISGh-EeCAarSYYXcKdRsNV85FsQBDSyMgzv8ds2slP1ph58xNxq-PmLIKfR1xxFtrqt_HTXeIxBuF7eOWXMaDM2nyitQPSvxaFeXgM_hVz3Ymrt0qMQr0vL7bdfEmTK4/s320/DSCN1455.JPG" width="320" /></a>Nannie's Zucchini Muffins<br />
2 eggs <br />
1 cup sugar <br />
1/2 cup oil <br />
1 Tbsp vanilla <br />
2 cups unpeeled shredded zucchini<br />
2 cups all purpose flour<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1/4 baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1 cup raisins<br />
1/2 cup chopped pecans<br />
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Combine first 4 ingredients and mix well. Stir in shredded zucchini. Set aside. Combine next 5 ingredients. Reserve 1/4 cup flour mixture and toss with raisins and pecans.<br />
Make a well in center of flour mixture. Add zucchini mixture to dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed. Stir in raisins and pecans. Spoon mixture into greased or paper lined muffin cups, filling about 2/3 full. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.<br />
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I'm loving that we will soon have a few more hours of daylight in the evenings when I get home from work. Remember to set your clocks ahead on Saturday night!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/54043264247958590_MH3pBTGp_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="vintage alarm clock" border="0" height="240" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/54043264247958590_MH3pBTGp_f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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I'm loving a new recipe I tried out for Oven Baked Fries. So easy and yummy!! Of course, I found it on Pinterest.<br />
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I'm loving that I have 4 new students coming to my sewing class this Saturday. They will be making a pillowcase dress out of these pretty fabrics.<br />
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<img height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2my-sb3vvtU5S5wMvgVNmEYSLmQwZ8lrlm3NUTxmLDBTpA90ApVAkgzoFl4p-uaeY4XhaOQgTD8i-wlg9cUYCNhnl7Z2OGfdOzX_lHDONNLAK-j2BP4y4Fx0xvIU00vALnngYEtPo3nI/s200/DSCN1421.JPG" width="200" /> <br />
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And I'm loving this quote by Kay Warren, found on Pinterest of course!<br />
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<img alt="Be Joyful Always" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/228065168599315798_WR8xXLaL_f.jpg" /> <br />
What are you loving Wednesday?Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-40657006007845442722012-02-29T19:25:00.000-08:002012-02-29T19:25:31.981-08:00Sponsor an Orphan<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On my drive to work yesterday morning, I was semi listening to the local Christian radio station and making a list in my head of everything I needed to do at work throughout the day - you know, multi-tasking - driving, listening, thinking! Slowly it dawned on me that the conversation on the radio was a little more serious than normal, so I began to focus more on what they were saying. The DJ's were talking about needing a certain number of people to call in before 8 a.m. to meet their goal of the hour. As I listened, my heart started to break. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> In Mozambique, there are almost half a million children who are orphans - no parents, no safe place to live, no food, no medical care, and no way to attend school. Many of them are also taking care of younger brothers and sisters. They became orphans because of AIDS and other terrible things that happen in Mozambique. Story after story was told about these precious orphans. And about the odds they face. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As I worked, I continued to listen to the broadcast and learned more about the goals that the radio station and Cross International were trying to meet in one day. <span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">I also began to think about how blessed I am - living in a comfortable house with a roof over my head, a bed to sleep in, plenty of food, clean water, and the list could go on and on. I have a husband who loves me and provides for our family by working hard; 3 beautiful, healthy grown up children who make me proud every day; a wonderful son-in-law who makes my daughter happy; and then I thought, "What can I do about these children who need someone to help them?". </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">While I am not as brave as a friend of mine from college - she and her husband have two grown daughters, and they recently adopted 3 precious children from Guyana. I enjoy hearing about things that are so special to these little ones that we sometimes take as a given. I'm not sure who is more blessed in this special family - the parents/sisters who opened their hearts and lives, or the three beautiful children. The smiles light up their faces! So I took a baby step and sponsored one child. That child will now be placed in a home with 2 parents who will welcome them into their home, love them, and care for them. If you want to learn more about some of the missions of Cross International, you can find them at www.crossinternational.org.</span></span></div><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><i>The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one <span style="background-color: white;">of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ </span><span style="background-color: white;">Matthew 25:40</span></i></span><br />
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</div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-43501128011632041622012-02-28T16:09:00.000-08:002012-02-28T16:09:12.815-08:00A New Look for an Old Stool<div class="" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0roKBwbJNQPUPnId7SNWvddcJ1I2Po2YEy6jtO5bAtYVr4hapjftG4FCEu9Tb6lNKL_gi1kjWcNqV5j3z10k-EIj9hRz83cWzfJ8Ba_AjxA582YO5_QTYoEn5hVxzoIKcKB-TKoD4_9a/s1600/DSCN1236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0roKBwbJNQPUPnId7SNWvddcJ1I2Po2YEy6jtO5bAtYVr4hapjftG4FCEu9Tb6lNKL_gi1kjWcNqV5j3z10k-EIj9hRz83cWzfJ8Ba_AjxA582YO5_QTYoEn5hVxzoIKcKB-TKoD4_9a/s200/DSCN1236.JPG" width="200" /></a><s>A few</s> Several weeks ago I told you to check back and see what I did to this cute little stool I purchased for $10 at Mud Puppy Antiques in Winder. Well, I did my part that same weekend, but it took quite a few weekends before my better half took care of his part! Actually, once I paid for the purchase the lady at the store pointed out why the price tag said "as is". I thought it was because it was a little wobbly. Obviously there is a bit of history behind this sturdy little stool. One of it's legs must have been broken because it had 3 identical legs and one that did not match - it had a bit more "details" than the other 3 did. I decided that was fine; it gave it character and I could always turn it so that "different" leg didn't show. It could be my little secret.</div><br />
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The hubs sanded all the wood down really well for me and then I got busy painting and crackling! I picked up the awesome fabric at Hob Lob of course - 30% off that week - and made quick work of covering the cushion for a new look. Once it was done, I needed the legs evened up because that "different" leg was a little bit shorter and the stool was actually a bit tall. So finally this past Sunday my sweet husband finished his part of the project and cut the legs off so they were all even. No more rocking! I added some felt pads to the bottom of each leg and now for the unveiling of my new stool . . . . .<br />
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What do you think? I love it. Especially when I put my feet up to watch Castle, One Tree Hill or Revenge!!<br />
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<div style="clear: right; float: right; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; margin-top: 0px;"></div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-12404854574816188052012-02-26T14:42:00.000-08:002012-02-26T14:42:29.095-08:00Just Sew Studio - Pillowcase Dress ClassLadies, if you've ever wanted to learn how to sew for a special little girl in your life this has to be one of the easiest projects to try. Once you have this mastered, you can even use it to make a cute summer top for yourself. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzTg-eplnvZ45DxFXxjd5e1bTlotEeL9q30uRGDJItmhLU6FOIW7p16rP3DH936pdqnjVkCU96eTM1alXtyecr_yT20ddj4g_rXbcbnUIVbuiyAolsvsB7aB0Ex1IvrqDSYQGT3B_3QW8/s1600/261475_239089909442770_194946753857086_921993_8331861_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzTg-eplnvZ45DxFXxjd5e1bTlotEeL9q30uRGDJItmhLU6FOIW7p16rP3DH936pdqnjVkCU96eTM1alXtyecr_yT20ddj4g_rXbcbnUIVbuiyAolsvsB7aB0Ex1IvrqDSYQGT3B_3QW8/s320/261475_239089909442770_194946753857086_921993_8331861_n.jpg" width="255" /></a></div><b>Pillowcase style Dress Class</b><br />
<b>Saturday, March 10, 2012</b><br />
<b>9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.</b><br />
<b>Cost: $35 - includes pattern, fabric, thread, and 3 hours of instruction.</b><br />
Sewing machines available or you can bring your own. Please sign up by Friday, March 2 to allow time for me to purchase the fabric and wash it prior to class. <br />
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Fabric choices are below and the link to sign up is here - <a href="http://acsg.wufoo.com/forms/m7x3p9/">http://acsg.wufoo.com/forms/m7x3p9/</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1QWiHmcLF2ptSwzEt84DydiYI5tYZKJ0cpAoUoFelrSPJU_DvnTQL4NT7GYJEDvoP2bJ9ZwcKo584yGGa8AyP9Y-snUbvmhSb0vxVANOU20zhF4tJY7HN_kPqezhZYPOmlMnNVJ6m6j0/s1600/393371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1QWiHmcLF2ptSwzEt84DydiYI5tYZKJ0cpAoUoFelrSPJU_DvnTQL4NT7GYJEDvoP2bJ9ZwcKo584yGGa8AyP9Y-snUbvmhSb0vxVANOU20zhF4tJY7HN_kPqezhZYPOmlMnNVJ6m6j0/s200/393371.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2my-sb3vvtU5S5wMvgVNmEYSLmQwZ8lrlm3NUTxmLDBTpA90ApVAkgzoFl4p-uaeY4XhaOQgTD8i-wlg9cUYCNhnl7Z2OGfdOzX_lHDONNLAK-j2BP4y4Fx0xvIU00vALnngYEtPo3nI/s1600/DSCN1421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2my-sb3vvtU5S5wMvgVNmEYSLmQwZ8lrlm3NUTxmLDBTpA90ApVAkgzoFl4p-uaeY4XhaOQgTD8i-wlg9cUYCNhnl7Z2OGfdOzX_lHDONNLAK-j2BP4y4Fx0xvIU00vALnngYEtPo3nI/s200/DSCN1421.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://shop.hobbylobby.com/assets/item/regular/299073.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="APT4-15 Pink Scroll" border="0" height="200" src="http://shop.hobbylobby.com/assets/item/regular/299073.jpg" width="200" /></a> <br />
(Blue) (Pink) (Brown)<br />
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If you have any questions you can contact me at mary.vannus@yahoo.com. Hope to see you at class!<br />
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Sweet Stitching,<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Mary</i></span>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-18704566741162671282012-02-21T15:25:00.000-08:002012-02-21T15:25:28.522-08:00There's a New Store in TownNow I realize a new grocery in town might not be something to write home about, but when you love to cook and love to save money, it's a pretty big deal. An Aldi store recently opened in a nearby town and I stopped by today to pick up a few things.<br />
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If you've never shopped at Aldi before, you will notice it's a little different from your usual grocery store. You have to pay a quarter to use a shopping cart. But, when you return your cart to the area at the front of the store, you get your quarter back. No loose shopping carts rolling around in the parking lot bumping into your car! Nice. The store itself is not large. Things are neatly displayed on shelves, with prices clearly marked overhead. Every so often you'll see a national brand, but most everything there is a store brand. Make sure to bring your own shopping bags, or purchase paper, plastic or reusable bags there. As the cashier rings your purchases up, she will place them in a shopping cart. After you pay for your purchases, you push your cart over to the bagging area and put your purchases in your own bags - so no more complaining about the baggers who don't know how to put groceries in your bags the right way. <br />
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On my first visit there last week, Carla was my cashier. She was very friendly and after she rang up my purchases, she took a few minutes to explain a little about how Aldi works. She has been an employee of the company for 5 years. She pointed out the money back guarantee on their products - if you aren't satisfied, return the product and they will refund the purchase price. And she also said you can cut your grocery bill in half!<br />
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Since I really planned on just getting milk and broccoli, I decided not to spend a quarter for a cart. By the time I made it around to the produce sections and saw the "deals", I realized I should have spent that quarter. Just as I had everything precariously balanced in my arms, I saw that milk was $1.99 and remembered we were getting low. As I very carefully and slowly opened the cooler, and then started to bend down to get the milk, I realized another shopper was watching me. She asked if I needed help. I told her thank you, but I thought I had it under control. She turned to her daughter and said, "She looks like Rachel Ray gathering food in her kitchen". If only I could throw a meal together in 30 minutes like her . . . and get paid for it!!<br />
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Today my purchases totaled $13.91! Here's what I got -<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKghVcrM3VA975BpzoBHBLND5yFanmpA4dgWDvnvn9rtCS1u7dAR_ZeqOseTD1fG8Kf0c8EHF03IhxZDu2CCtEiM9iWB0KAoZwo4hNAFZR1gS4k507W1pA6R6zJagPBJdzOXBBKhGjwzM/s1600/DSCN1396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKghVcrM3VA975BpzoBHBLND5yFanmpA4dgWDvnvn9rtCS1u7dAR_ZeqOseTD1fG8Kf0c8EHF03IhxZDu2CCtEiM9iWB0KAoZwo4hNAFZR1gS4k507W1pA6R6zJagPBJdzOXBBKhGjwzM/s320/DSCN1396.JPG" width="320" /></a>8 oz pack of baby bella mushrooms..... .79<br />
sliced bacon...................................... 2.99<br />
1 pack of 3 romaine hearts.................. .99<br />
8 roma tomatoes................................ .79<br />
6 pk individual applesauce cups........... 1.29<br />
avocado............................................ .89<br />
cucumber......................................... .59<br />
9 oz spinach...................................... 1.69<br />
16 oz broccoli crowns........................ 1.39<br />
1 gallon skim milk.............................. 1.99<br />
1 reusable plastic grocery bag.............. .10<br />
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I'll definitely be shopping at Aldi from time to time if they continue to have prices like this. Now I've got to get in the kitchen and use some of my purchases to get supper ready.Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-86067380523461064342012-02-19T18:37:00.003-08:002012-02-19T18:41:55.335-08:00A New Blog - Sew. Cook. Create.<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="320" src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/297785_10150494884282931_189512102930_8504170_527416006_n.jpg" width="239" /></div><br />
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Overwhelmed. That's how I've been feeling for the past few months. A lot of this is due to pressure I put on myself. I feel like there's always something else I need to complete before the day is done. . . and usually there are quite a few things I don't get to. So they are waiting for me the next day when I wake up.<br />
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For the past few days, I've had quite a bit of time to myself. The men in my family have gone off on one of ther infamous father/son trips. This time they've gone ice fishing in Wisconsin. Even though they are safely back on dry land as I write this, I won't be sure until I see them that there weren't any mishaps during this trip. Usually something happens to one of them, but many times I don't find out about it until they return home. There was also a lack of cell service on the island, so that might be another reason I haven't heard any "horror stories".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwRLL0iNvO-SlEWv8FJtcKWU4294_Upjx-g0k3UTXt0cBHvnB8ylE2Bq04efmW5RLOs23z61gJBGqUiIrRg6aoLpS_8eoF0CDL4VsM32UNhvrHKnOasSZkxP-iQQcE0TFMfIzYm3uxFWo/s1600/sewing+skirt+4226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwRLL0iNvO-SlEWv8FJtcKWU4294_Upjx-g0k3UTXt0cBHvnB8ylE2Bq04efmW5RLOs23z61gJBGqUiIrRg6aoLpS_8eoF0CDL4VsM32UNhvrHKnOasSZkxP-iQQcE0TFMfIzYm3uxFWo/s400/sewing+skirt+4226.jpg" /></a>So during this "quiet time", I realized I wasn't doing a great job with blogging. The fact that I had two blogs probably doesn't help. So I've decided to combine my blogs and hopefully that way I won't neglect either of them. I decided on a new name, "sew. cook. create" . Now I can blog about all the things I love to do. <br />
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So here's a little peek at what I've been up to recently. Yesterday I taught my first class of 2012 at Just Sew! Studio. Four ladies attended the class and learned how to use a pattern, sew in a zipper, and make a skirt. The skirts turned out really cute. I hope they will enjoy wearing them. More classes will be offered in March. As soon as I have the details, I'll include the info here in case you are interested in coming to a class.<br />
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I've been sticking with some of my favorite recipes recently - just because they are usually quick and easy. I've tried a few new things that I've found on Pinterest, but they usually include chocolate. I did find a really great recipe/technique for making some of the best scrambled eggs I've ever had. Ingredients are the same that I've always used, but the method is what makes the difference. The next time you scramble some eggs, give the Brown Eyed Baker's version a try - <a href="http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2009/11/04/how-to-make-perfect-scrambled-eggs/">http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2009/11/04/how-to-make-perfect-scrambled-eggs/</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/401109_10150678599657931_189512102930_9174433_1400587999_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/401109_10150678599657931_189512102930_9174433_1400587999_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Towards the end of 2011, I put some of my "creations" for sale at The Sassy Sister, a new store in Jefferson. The store has recently moved to 20 Railroad Street. As I get some new spring & wedding items done, I'll be taking them to the store too. Please make sure you stop by and see all the cute things available there.<br />
<img height="320" src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/381150_10150494841782931_189512102930_8503730_1227741224_n.jpg" width="239" />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-32365268096589586962012-01-11T19:04:00.000-08:002012-02-19T11:33:43.516-08:00Winter Decor<div style="text-align: center;"><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="background-image: url(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h260/toonybug/sidebartitle-2.png); color: rgb(102, 102, 102); margin-bottom: -10px; padding-top: 20px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 15px; padding-left: 50px; height: 25px; text-align: left; font-size: 26px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 26px; letter-spacing: -1px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(188, 91, 8); font-family: Cousine; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); background-position: 0% 100%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; ">Winter Decorating</h3><div class="post-header" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><div class="post-header-line-1"></div></div><div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-1480199791228287281" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; line-height: 1.6em; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Today the Hubs decided he would do the cooking, and make a double batch of his famous "deer chili". So that gave me the opportunity to finish up a few projects so I could cross "winter decorating" off my to do list. Most of the winter decor has been up since I put my Christmas decorations away. There were a few things I had seen on Pinterest that I wanted to finish up and add to my winter mantle. So today was the day. Here's the full view of the finished project.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8wZ3hXDPgfbrwIxk2cnGjCQdykqQtt21xzEYvLBHnAeBx5kIfj3bRKuIWWxW15WyqKoPXZkUwXTQ9E-4d-4_4vxdsFTAQEFEHchpezoGhAs0lsa4m9Ypj46CC2VtUoIlsA6l6P2WPYPZE/s1600/DSCN1233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8wZ3hXDPgfbrwIxk2cnGjCQdykqQtt21xzEYvLBHnAeBx5kIfj3bRKuIWWxW15WyqKoPXZkUwXTQ9E-4d-4_4vxdsFTAQEFEHchpezoGhAs0lsa4m9Ypj46CC2VtUoIlsA6l6P2WPYPZE/s640/DSCN1233.JPG" width="640" style="border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; padding-top: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-right-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-bottom-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-left-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-image: initial; " /></a></div></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYDLHeCRhvkDrh2NdLDyAf8go-vLJEJBwg0WIx82Cm_iWqgjcDpqvbJvw2KfWyPD8FoNAiPVfxJXmflVssSVxj8WmweeIuZGg_dNcUO9_aC2z-i7df_8hYVBm0yB8Bc3KXFxw9Pr3z-xVT/s1600/DSCN1234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); text-decoration: none; font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYDLHeCRhvkDrh2NdLDyAf8go-vLJEJBwg0WIx82Cm_iWqgjcDpqvbJvw2KfWyPD8FoNAiPVfxJXmflVssSVxj8WmweeIuZGg_dNcUO9_aC2z-i7df_8hYVBm0yB8Bc3KXFxw9Pr3z-xVT/s320/DSCN1234.JPG" width="320" style="border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; padding-top: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-right-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-bottom-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-left-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-image: initial; " /></a><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; ">I made one of the Epsom Salt candle holders you can find on Pinterest. Very easy and I got all my supplies at the Dollar Tree. The plate was something I already had, and used my Silhouette to cut the "V" out of vinyl. The pitcher and bird were things I had.. I added a bit of "snow" to a pine cone.</span><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; "> </span> </div><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">At the other end, I added some black candle holders I picked up at the Queen's Antiques in Buford (love that place!), a metal ice skate from Michael's, and a few more pine cones with "snow" in a milk glass dish.</span> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnSxxze1kXgs0Z4b-W83QNRZBwTknRWCE7U2lNtaLMudeNxrBRhqHWEwrMBoFZVV0tCjzzA0bnMQ35PMM_ow9JdV6OPa_n9IMp3pveQGeL0mCLcXw74zToEinY3vfUM7vlQSdVehmI9f8w/s1600/DSCN1235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); text-decoration: none; font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnSxxze1kXgs0Z4b-W83QNRZBwTknRWCE7U2lNtaLMudeNxrBRhqHWEwrMBoFZVV0tCjzzA0bnMQ35PMM_ow9JdV6OPa_n9IMp3pveQGeL0mCLcXw74zToEinY3vfUM7vlQSdVehmI9f8w/s320/DSCN1235.JPG" width="320" style="border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; padding-top: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-right-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-bottom-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-left-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-image: initial; " /></a><div><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">There are several ways to repurpose old sweaters on Pinterest. I decided to use an old white sweater and make a wreath for my living room mirror. I used a sleeve from the sweater to cover a styrofoam wreath, wrapped it with some yarn, and added a few fabric flowers. Taa Daa!! Here's a close up and another pic for the full effect hanging on the mirror.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqL2NiEIa2PU6QvFECeYlmOCii3QOc4qliHcHhVjpgiP27xwNx1AaEPm7ueI6zuu6Ag6DKmeGSFJhm-UyzpO60TT3mndBkiJCp8tyKJgQ98Cw-BacO4xumzsfx0EjDtiqKOvlBsPzEGnST/s1600/DSCN1238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqL2NiEIa2PU6QvFECeYlmOCii3QOc4qliHcHhVjpgiP27xwNx1AaEPm7ueI6zuu6Ag6DKmeGSFJhm-UyzpO60TT3mndBkiJCp8tyKJgQ98Cw-BacO4xumzsfx0EjDtiqKOvlBsPzEGnST/s320/DSCN1238.JPG" width="320" style="border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; padding-top: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-right-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-bottom-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-left-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-image: initial; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy2ySaGzeH25W_NRvKkfbud3bx3ani21NCefYE5p0RkSgpubexVFIJCRatbuL8kn0g9D8XJe2SRguM1IdF7YZspgiiI35cl538Ic1dXHhcpU9YoPh3fcBQ5aYNGV_9s_Ut-NtFBjaw5Gps/s1600/DSCN1237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy2ySaGzeH25W_NRvKkfbud3bx3ani21NCefYE5p0RkSgpubexVFIJCRatbuL8kn0g9D8XJe2SRguM1IdF7YZspgiiI35cl538Ic1dXHhcpU9YoPh3fcBQ5aYNGV_9s_Ut-NtFBjaw5Gps/s400/DSCN1237.JPG" width="400" style="border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; padding-top: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-right-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-bottom-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-left-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-image: initial; " /></a> </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: both; ">Hoping you are enjoying your weekend as much as I have enjoyed mine. Spent some time with some special people, heard a great message at church this morning and finished my winter decorating. Really enjoyed the chili (very yummy and very spicy) and my day off from cooking. Thanks honey!</div><div class="separator" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: both; "><br /></div><div class="separator" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: both; ">Come back soon to see what I do to this cute stool found at Mud Puppy Antiques in Winder (another favorite place to browse for treasures!). </div><div class="separator" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); clear: both; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0roKBwbJNQPUPnId7SNWvddcJ1I2Po2YEy6jtO5bAtYVr4hapjftG4FCEu9Tb6lNKL_gi1kjWcNqV5j3z10k-EIj9hRz83cWzfJ8Ba_AjxA582YO5_QTYoEn5hVxzoIKcKB-TKoD4_9a/s1600/DSCN1236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); text-decoration: none; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0roKBwbJNQPUPnId7SNWvddcJ1I2Po2YEy6jtO5bAtYVr4hapjftG4FCEu9Tb6lNKL_gi1kjWcNqV5j3z10k-EIj9hRz83cWzfJ8Ba_AjxA582YO5_QTYoEn5hVxzoIKcKB-TKoD4_9a/s320/DSCN1236.JPG" width="320" style="border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; padding-top: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-right-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-bottom-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-left-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-image: initial; " /></a></div><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Cousine; font-size: 20px; line-height: 31px; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "></div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-72152784790851642032012-01-11T16:03:00.000-08:002012-02-19T11:33:43.526-08:00<div>I've been sick for the last 4 days. So sick that I haven't cooked since maybe last Friday. That is a stretch for me. Ask my hubby. Ask any of my children. Since I've been sick I've been able to watch the Food Network while I lay in bed, read some books that seem to have southern recipes written into the story line, and browse and pin new recipes and ideas on Pinterest. Today I've finally started to feel like I have a little energy, so I decided to try two new recipes tonight . . . must have an appetite again! </div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ERtkoGBMPR_u9ClZ-xggFyvKwN6f6_MW1_mXJKRcJKVLHiZWl8SVMdM8qjtjcmkhJZFfQMYTE76Ci_Rw13oBmBRFBRULdeA_COVIHbPO9IEj9l7PFcA7yJIBEYJlD4JL6cO7KCjKUnlC/s1600/DSCN1230.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ERtkoGBMPR_u9ClZ-xggFyvKwN6f6_MW1_mXJKRcJKVLHiZWl8SVMdM8qjtjcmkhJZFfQMYTE76Ci_Rw13oBmBRFBRULdeA_COVIHbPO9IEj9l7PFcA7yJIBEYJlD4JL6cO7KCjKUnlC/s200/DSCN1230.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696532945731668658" /></a><div><br /></div><div>Have you heard of 7 Up Rolls? Have you tried them? Why haven't you told me? This is just one of the yummy recipes you can find on Pinterest . . . it was pinned quite a few times I might add. My mom makes the best yeast rolls I think I've ever tasted. She has shared her recipe with me, but mine don't turn out as light as hers. And they take some time to make. So I opted for this quick version of a roll to go with the soup tonight. Four ingredients - can't be much simpler than that and about 20 minutes from start to finish and they are done.</div><div><br /></div><div>The soup I made was based on a recipe I saw Rachel Ray throw together on her show this week. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>7 Up Rolls</b></div><div>1/2 stick of unsalted butter</div><div>2 cups baking mix</div><div>1/2 cup sour cream</div><div>1/2 cup 7 Up</div><div><br /></div><div>Preheat oven to 450 degrees. While oven is preheating, place 9" square baking dish in oven and let the butter melt. Remove dish when melted. </div><div><br /></div><div>In small mixing bowl, place 2 cups of baking mix and 1/2 cup sour cream. Use two forms and cut the sour cream into the baking mix until a crumbly mixture forms. Pour in 7 Up and fold into baking mix and sour cream. This makes a very soft dough. Sprinkle extra baking mix onto a pastry board or on a sheet of wax paper. Turn dough out onto this surface and pat lightly into a 9" x 9" square. Cut into 9 rolls. Place into baking dish. Bake for 12 - 15 minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div>* You might want to add an additional 1/4 cup of baking mix to the recipe. The dough was very soft and sticky. But the rolls turned out yummy - very light.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Italian Meatball and Pasta Soup</b></div><div>2 Tbsp. butter or olive oil</div><div>1 onion</div><div>2 cloves garlic</div><div>1-2 ribs celery</div><div>2 cans chicken broth</div><div>1 can diced tomatoes, 14-15 oz can</div><div>2 cans cannelini beans, 14-15 oz cans</div><div>3-4 carrots, peeled and cut into thick slices</div><div>2 small zuchinni, cut into small pieces</div><div>1 bunch Kale, chopped</div><div><br /></div><div>Meatball Dumplings - </div><div>1 lb. Italian sausage</div><div>1/2 cup bread crumbs</div><div>1 egg</div><div>1-2 Tbsp. milk</div><div>parmesan cheese</div><div><br /></div><div>Pasta of your choice</div><div><br /></div><div>In soup pot, melt butter or heat olive oil. Add chopped onion, minced garlic and sliced celery. </div><div>Cook until veggies become transparent. Add 2 cans of chicken broth and 3 broth cans filled with water. Add diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to boil. Turn heat down, cover and let mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes. </div><div><br /></div><div>Peel and slice carrots. Slice zucchini. Add veggies to the broth and let them cook for about 30 minutes until tender. Add another soup can of water if a lot of the liquid has cooked out. You want to make sure there is enough broth in the pot to cover the "meatball dumplings" you will be adding to the broth. Bring the broth to a low boil.</div><div><br /></div><div>Mix italian sausage with 1/2 cup of bread crumbs, 2 Tbsp. parmesan, 1 egg and 2 Tbsp. milk. I use a melon baller to make uniform size meatballs. Drop meatballs into the boiling broth. Let them cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add kale and let cook for another 10 - 15 minutes until wilted.</div><div><br /></div><div>I did learn a trick from Rachel about the pasta. Since my family doesn't always sit down to eat at the same time, this worked perfectly. I cooked the pasta separately, rather than adding it to the soup. Drained it, drizzled it with a little olive oil, and set it aside. Then when I was ready to serve the soup, I put some pasta in each bowl, ladled the hot soup over the pasta, sprinkled with additional parmesan and served it. Hubby just said I could serve this soup in a restaurant! He made my night . . . just one of the reasons I love him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy cooking!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-38520079323979359602011-09-07T16:39:00.000-07:002012-02-19T11:33:43.534-08:00A ConfessionWe have had several days in a row of less than 90 degree temperatures, and I am loving it. Time to pull out jeans and a sweater to throw on over a t-shirt! Sleep with the windows open.<br /><br />Before I write anymore, I must make a confession. I have become addicted to Pinterest! I think I'm not alone in this addiction. In my fellow Pinterest addicts defense, there is a wealth of information out there. Things that you can really use - amazing recipes, tutorials for sewing/crafts, recommendations of products, books to read, decorating tips and ideas. And that's just a few of the things to be found. <br /><br />As the weather begins to cool off, I like to pull my crock pot out of the pantry and use it for some yummy suppers. Our family has found a recipe (on Pinterest) that is becoming one of our favorites - and we've used it for pork chops and chicken.<br /><br />Creamy Ranch Pork (or Chicken)<br />6 pork chops or chicken breasts<br />2 cans cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)<br />1 package of Ranch dressing mix<br /><br />Put the pork chops or chicken in the crock pot. Mix the 2 cans of soup with the Ranch mix and pour over the meat. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours.<br /><br />We served this with Pioneer Woman's mashed potatoes (delish!!), green beans and squash.<br /><br />Enjoy the cooler temps and spending time on Pinterest.Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-50330881744415657622011-04-27T18:01:00.000-07:002012-02-19T11:33:43.540-08:00What I'm Loving Wednesday<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0THKuYu3AhR2OVvW-U-tVHLDa9ErC5C71TMR7l7JVAJ-OhupzcmlxR_8llUqpCxRQAsvBepKHXtc2zwUDYUn0C-TZVIQQU28irhGXsP1bm5IffS4jo3uphWv70bn1iKPXG8zdlBWI2wg/s400/WILW.jpg" /></div><br /><br />Well, I've made it to the middle of another work week and I'm going to link up with <a href="http://littledaisymay.blogspot.com/">Jamie</a> at What I'm Loving Wednesday again. We're waiting for the rough weather to arrive here and I'm <u>not</u> loving that it will probably occur about the time I will be ready to go to bed. Haven't had a good night's sleep in several nights, but I shouldn't complain. I'm loving a new song by Laura Story called Blessings. One of the verses in the song says ---<div><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(32, 32, 32); font-family: LucidaGrande; font-size: 12px; ">Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops<br />What if Your healing comes through tears<br />What if a thousand sleepless nights<br />Are what it takes to know You’re near<br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(32, 32, 32); font-family: LucidaGrande; font-size: 12px; ">What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(32, 32, 32); font-family: LucidaGrande; font-size: 12px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SGniRk_GcLs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>That song really makes you think about life and the reason things happen. It sounds like things are bad in Alabama and parts of northwest Georgia now. Hope everyone stays safe!<div><br />Next I'm loving all the great blogs I keep finding. There are so many talented and creative</div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYaEV8RDEDzo5YJV2Hi2i5PKd8UlXPIvSA2SDa2hwlkIdC3m1cBN00vnJL9jTdL1X2lbX3hqsAGxKoiw0cy-ahyphenhyphenKJB5CTahR1ihbrDv9Qj5LfGrOxqwMUeI4P8ErqH7v2JQHPg5dAQNVc/s320/6824_1140804796516_1119300002_30362935_1376547_n.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 107px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600452192842632066" /><div> women out there. I could just spend hours and hours reading all their blogs. I really enjoy <a href="http://www.lemonademakinmama.com/">Lemonade Makin' Mama</a> and <a href="http://www.thehouseofsmiths.com/">TheHouse of Smiths</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm loving that our family will be attending the pinning ceremony for my middle child who is majoring in nursing at NGCSU. I am so proud of her and her many accomplishments. One more semester and she will be a nurse; something she's wanted to be since she was a little girl. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We celebrated Easter this past weekend. I'm loving that we went to church and then had a yummy lunch with my parents at my sister and bro-in-law's house. So nice to be together with all the family. Ham, potato salad, German potato salad, deviled eggs, green beans, strawberry & pineapple congealed salad, Mom's homemade yeast rolls (can I just say delish!!), layered salad, and then dessert - carrot cake, cheesecake, and cake balls.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3xUEq-yMVu5LlZ4QwEaEFKfS_OuJCfx-5dar8RLH59UP3NzlxTzNum0PtEa5VQgans0ZL0E27Esyct8cqR2ljy-0dA0SrMweZmrMF5GG-IfUPAOdzaVE8XshN2-j4_XLGMuPojYBEd2Iz/s320/DSC_7338.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600451197623051410" /></div><div> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibeioPUFfuREbdDaggxPSnu0gZdizKe9XJZduLs5l3HqZpyjl6CZ2QcH7HKLPC-soW_tvR66u9oxxHdWJRDiDtyuBcjxXT26MUvH2TLZ9Ly4jwp6SzrwNtfAh0c-Z-2OPic-8FpQLEIEaX/s200/DSC_7429.jpg" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXhgErokyxvwFmZGL0w8b0N6vSzPx3a8JxYCUkJKHFsviHgNvUuHVjxMH9pw4z3Hv6Q15jbfdJ-rTNsUiJHNXLBJAeoR7_ODr8Pr1Z259pr2DHOzTxNAgEOZS3OgLKbCMp9iwAIxLg164/s320/DSC_7363.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600451206557170690" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiTbZYmXFcvbmrnp4UTnXSiwJuq2b0QFDaEQn4hoQPDeGij-gz2GRpUgMOaV4QqLU6l1rrc8xoXqy3K2S-Osse7FYMcWAn30oOmFLLtxK0nBQi33qUdphMNfZnI7P1OUJozied4RIMA-KK/s200/DSC_7434.jpg" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBoH2cXAFyLLZ20z0WotLsy3yNIBRybcjuDALvblsCj0Cbyw-URQ9kScPTny6GpdDrME7PV_9-rvvxai6bxHOH1GX2hUWARshjnpEuEe9hUyBAILTqL0Pt08KExoSrpGocO7k8oy7t36Oo/s200/DSC_7410.jpg" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1z4zg6FiZnpKcyrM1ROIwg60OY0rdRoCTpTjtPYsFhKKwCVOEb1QoblL_E-7LxLahPX0Wh634hrWlfpcBkoLF6j2WoHtcs6JZjENHHlKeN5xr1cp_VeHOc44-OVe0WbtVto6stQYpCCu/s200/DSC_7420.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div>Happy Wednesday everybody!</div><div><br /></div><div> </div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-26231227885326282522011-04-26T09:58:00.000-07:002012-02-19T11:33:43.546-08:00Top Two Tuesday - Collections<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(19, 19, 12); font-family: 'century gothic'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; ">t<a border="0" href="http://benandtay.blogspot.com/search/label/top%202%20tuesday" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 84, 117); text-decoration: underline; font-family: 'century gothic'; "><img src="http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad230/sarahannroger/blog%20design/top2tuesday.png" style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: double; border-right-style: double; border-bottom-style: double; border-left-style: double; border-top-color: rgb(225, 225, 225); border-right-color: rgb(225, 225, 225); border-bottom-color: rgb(225, 225, 225); border-left-color: rgb(225, 225, 225); " /></a></span><br /><div><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; ">Today's (actually last week's, but I just saw that!!) Top 2 Tuesday blog is about the top 2 things you collect. Of course, I'm sure my family will get a kick out of this as I seem to collect a lot of "stuff"! But if I had to choose, these would be my top 2.</p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAx8dLvlgfj58ZmLoisuB5dJkZ9vzkOuubwRiychCqQzyEr4an5oK9nSdsRmENTWpVVPwBu3dHWV6CHWcQ-e_f6cIiOb4O31AfoqLhs0b4BUwsT3yMqMhoKo7u4i0W7UcFEWVBNCYs49L-/s320/DSCN0933.JPG" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600081351364022674" /><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; "><br /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; ">1. Fabric!. Ever since I was in high school and got a part time job at JoAnn Fabrics, I have collected fabric. My parents used to ask if I brought any of my paycheck home or did I spend it all at work on more fabric. Unfortunately I don't think someone who sews (I think the new term is "sewist") can ever feel like they have enough fabric. There is always a new design or a new color that catches your eye and says "please bring me home and make something out of me"! Now that I've started Just Sew! Studio, I actually can say I HAVE to buy more fabric.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; "><br /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; "><br /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; "><br /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; "><br /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; "><br /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; "><br /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; "><br /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; ">2. Pewter! When Dan and I got married (a long time ago - 30 years ago this July to be exact!), pewter was IN. My mother-in-law had lots of pewter, and I thought it was really pretty. There were several shops in the Pompano Beach / Fort Lauderdale area that sold only pewter. So I added it to my wedding registry. I'm glad I did that. Now I have a collection of quite a few things that I display on top of my kitchen cabinets. Steak platter, pitchers, sugar & creamer set, and a Noah's Ark baby plate & cup set ...but I think my favorite is my deviled egg platter!</p></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0RHMp2FYj3FVzN2hDCUy15EQlUVW_5x68IWPA4XkMFcpalshb3yx80u1YqPqGzGH4PDzLWVNX-ZW7k-wYbNwx38pReHxv7XWvZRf7rkJyySHTmIHF7x8UoS9msOsfcqHvBl8CQTnwJd5/s1600/DSCN0934.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0RHMp2FYj3FVzN2hDCUy15EQlUVW_5x68IWPA4XkMFcpalshb3yx80u1YqPqGzGH4PDzLWVNX-ZW7k-wYbNwx38pReHxv7XWvZRf7rkJyySHTmIHF7x8UoS9msOsfcqHvBl8CQTnwJd5/s320/DSCN0934.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600080493748753250" /></a><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica">Just curious. How many other people have a sock collection that keeps growing? I didn't mean to set out collecting socks, but I think my washing machine has set out to drive me crazy. No matter how many matched pairs of socks I put IN the washing machine, they never all come out. I am now the proud owner of an ever growing collection of only one sock from a pair. While we were shopping last Saturday, my sweet middle child (who is almost 21) proceeded to tell me that I could purchase another package of the low cut socks we wear when walking or exercising for about $5. Does she not understand how many times I have done this? Only to find that the new package of socks I purchased have just a little bit different finish around the ankle, different color stitching across the toe, no shaded heel area, etc. and that creates more unmatched socks when I only remove half from the washer. One day there may be only two of us left in the house, and I will send all the leftover, unwanted, unmatched socks to one of my children's homes so they can be obsessed with where did the other sock go! And having a dog who enjoys chewing socks up does not help either.</p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica">Happy Tuesday everyone!</p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-57884247294365578602011-04-20T09:38:00.000-07:002012-02-19T11:33:43.555-08:00<span class="Apple-style-span">What I'm Loving Wednesday</span><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBb9TLxZEnGYVmbOUgy4SxNhDVhlnJRh-ElTrLoardFaDPhikYLBXRfmriETP6XMj-TAXKVosA2ywCOMDci0bNiXNtUk5jXpPaumDHJgIyuf9Vmdg-5x0AEYz58vqZ8FlLEHBUh_bZPNU/s400/WILW.jpg" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">First of all, I'm loving that my two girls have been an inspiration to me to get myself outside when I get home from work and WALK! They both participated in their first 5K this past weekend and had been working up to this goal for the last few weeks. </span>On Saturday I walked 3 miles . . . much to my surprise. I've repeated that walk 3 out of the last 5 days. I didn't get to it tonight because I had a hair appointment (another thing I'm loving Wednesday) and now it's time to cook supper.</div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGVNdh0htT-I5xtURhSigk5EzLjCEe0R955QWTKAoOVoZ5ZbwpMb247jpdBpT3PCOWVmTuQln-FyCoXBC3ht22jYKArFzrgfipKSh8-dG-CEPUOmAWUzw25weLqFjgem6pXzKVxot8Q0ki/s320/208669_607324071042_51100646_33656498_5290466_n.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597842623869313858" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">Second, I'm loving another Pioneer Woman recipe. Who would have guessed? I tried <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/08/simple-sesame-noodles/">Simple Sesame Noodles</a><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/?s=sesame+noodles&submit="> </a> on Monday night, added some stir fried chicken, broccoli and carrots and am enjoying it for my lunch this week. Has to be one of the easiest things to make and very yummy!</span></div><div><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span">Another thing I'm loving is that we celebrate Easter this weekend. Such an awesome thing to celebrate the love our heavenly Father has for us by sending his Son to die in our place and then rising from the dead. Can you even imagine the surprise that those women had at the empty tomb? Or when they disciples realized He was among them? One of my favorite songs that is all about why we celebrate Easter! </span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span">.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/<iframe%20title=%22YouTube%20video%20player%22%20width=%22425%22%20height=%22349%22%20src=%22http://www.youtube.com/embed/EMHyGh0RgCA%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20allowfullscreen></iframe>"><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/EMHyGh0RgCA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></a></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"></span>Enjoy what's left of your Wednesday!</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p></div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-38027560761776392622011-04-13T16:26:00.000-07:002012-02-19T11:33:43.562-08:00What I'm Loving Wednesday!<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoJmpbymJpEMjOdlLyQ8n4N8BCwCpEraNgGJhDFVAl7AhIO0PoV-Psm3EhEm5vYHXCUebgHtcS9RjEfjQVyM1kVsxRLirlX_1x6CI7PDTNYNIrEguXOD7_pIibjZRKRrJhogjTVN2pBk/s400/WILW.jpg" /><div>Okay, I'm going to jump in here and link up with <a href="http://littledaisymay.blogspot.com">Jamie</a> for What I'm Loving Wednesday.<div><br /></div><div>I'm loving that spring is here and the dogwoods are in bloom. They are my absolute favorite tree - very delicate. When we found the property we eventually built our house on, it was in the early spring and there were dogwoods in bloom all over the property. The following year when spring arrived, I started watching for the dogwoods to bloom. Nothing! I asked my sweet husband why our dogwoods weren't blooming like the others, and he looked like the cat who swallowed the canary. "I think I didn't know they were dogwoods and I must have cut them down when I was clearing out the woods!" he said. Gotta love him even though we only have about 3 dogwoods left on our property now. You'd think he would have planted some by now.<div><div><img src="http://www.tree-pictures.com/pinkdogwood.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm loving that I finally gathered up my courage and Just Sew! Studio is officially in business. We've had 3 classes so far, 2 more planned for this month, and everyone has gone home with a finished project. Hopefully some of them will be inspired to begin sewing on their own. It seems to be a skill that people are becoming interested in again. </div><div><br /></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLv5Y49xjRqEgyGCCdN96DkxXHSp3eLx79mfgU6OeRYefhycRVikqhrh00mvHa_WvlWZ3eax1XoDSohF9u8LY8tV8i2RqYEOvd5pE1PGKaADSMUeikqEN6GpO7h6YWutOWOQY4aRhYJQYf/s320/DSCN0891.JPG" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div><div>I'm loving that the only thing I cooked tonight was bacon for our club sandwiches. If you know me, you know that I cook a full meal almost every night so I'm really slacking if bacon is all I cooked. Pioneer Woman recently had a blog about her version of the club sandwich and decided if it was good enough for her, it was good enough for me! I'll be out of the kitchen in no time tonight. </div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjur7Uj8mrI6xX3vHNbnMtAhFU-gw29C5gDbeA-VRsAsHQDhNiF2Jy-vVHDC09kF7j_szVBHbcyBbTmU78FAV13unKkJtxnWshPediSpclLmGvB57sLvK1Vl2e6Zq0Jp7AzCdJzgvZ1mVbi/s320/DSCN0897.JPG" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Wednesday Y'all!!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329178567356294755.post-7035125171749566212011-04-02T19:40:00.000-07:002012-02-19T11:33:43.568-08:00What I Cooked this Weekend!Now I realize there might not be a whole lot of people who would say cooking is one of their favorite things to do, but it is one of mine. And have I cooked this weekend!!<div><br /></div><div>Recently I became aware of Ree Drummond, aka Pioneer Woman. She sounds like a pretty awesome lady. She's married to the love of her life (Marlboro Man), has 4 cute kids, lives on a cattle ranch, cooks, takes beautiful pics, has a very informative and entertaining blog, and has a cookbook that hit #1 on the New York Times bestseller list, and has now written The Pioneer Woman - Black Heels to Tractor Wheels (basically the story of how she met "Marlboro Man" and fell in love). </div><div><br /></div><div>Over Christmas vacation, I stumbled across her blog (<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/">http://thepioneerwoman.com/</a>) while reading another blog (<a href="http://thelittlebrownhouse.us/">http://thelittlebrownhouse.us/</a>) . . . can you tell what I did between Christmas Day and New Years? The Little Brown House was raving about Pioneer Woman's Cinnamon Rolls. So I decided to give them a try. Let me just say, they are AHmazing, and that's putting it lightly. Since then I've purchased her cookbook and her book and highly recommend them both. </div><div><br /></div><div>The recipes are very easy to follow, don't call for any exotic ingredients, and have met with rave reviews from my family. I've made Basic Breakfast Potatoes, Edna Mae's Sour Cream Pancakes (don't think I will ever make pancakes from a mix again), Chicken Spaghetti, Chicken Fried Steak, PW's Creamy Mashed Potatoes, and Comfort Meatballs. Haven't been disappointed by one recipe. </div><div><br /></div><div>So this weekend I decided to try Three Cheese Stuffed Shells with Meaty Tomato Sauce (<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/10/three-cheese-stuffed-shells-with-meaty-tomato-sauce/">http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/10/three-cheese-stuffed-shells-with-meaty-tomato-sauce/</a>) and Spicy Dr. Pepper Shredded Pork (<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/03/spicy-dr-pepper-shredded-pork/">http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/03/spicy-dr-pepper-shredded-pork/</a>). Not together, of course. I put the Three Cheese recipe together quickly late yesterday afternoon to take to a friend who had hip surgery recently. Her husband and mine like to get a rise out of us by calling us "woman". Now, this all came about during a sermon when the preacher was quoting Jesus who addressed a woman as "woman" and they thought it was funny to call us that, but they normally say it in a stern sounding voice like "WOMAN". Somehow, I don't think that was how Jesus was saying it. Anyway, our friend texted Dan after eating the Stuffed Shells and said he would no longer call me WOMAN, but he would now call me Mama Mia. I'm taking that as a compliment. We will be having our Stuffed Shells for supper tomorrow night.</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight we are having the Shredded Pork. It's been cooking in a 300 degree oven for six hours and it is falling apart (I peeked just a few minutes ago and had a taste - YUMMY!!). I'm serving it as PW suggests on warm flour tortillas, topped with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and grated cheese. Can't wait for supper.</div><div><br /></div><div>So if you're stuck in a rut and tired of cooking the same old thing, please visit PW's website and try some of her recipes. You won't be sorry. Her recipes are very easy to follow and she includes beautiful pictures if you need step by step help. And you'll probably giggle a few times as you are reading her recipes. </div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03531525066441758050noreply@blogger.com0