Recipe Alert: Homemade Play Dough!

Mom making homemade play dough is one of my most favorite memories growing up. We used to have the best time just sitting around the kitchen table and making all sorts of things. She's always been way better at making different things, but I just loved the time that was spent sitting around laughing and having a great time.

I thought I'd share the recipe with you. Kids love it--old and young alike and it offers your kids endless hours of fun! You can also bake their creations and allow the kiddos to paint them and give their art away as gifts to family and friends, just omit the Cream of Tartar, Oil & use only hot water to combine the flour and salt. You can also make this dough in batches and use different food colorings to make the dough more appealing to the kids. With an awesome imagination, the possibilities are endless!!!

Play dough Recipe

1 Cup Flour

1/2 Cup Salt

2 Tbsp. Oil

2 Tsp. Cream of Tartar

1 Cup Water

Food Coloring (optional)

Heat oil. Remove from burner and combine all other ingredients and continue to cook over low heat for 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat, place on wax paper and allow the dough to cool. Seal in plastic Ziploc bags or tubs when not in use.

*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Recipe Alert: Sun Tea!

It's no secret to those of you who (really) know me, know that I absolutely love Sweet Iced Tea! It truly is the "House Wine of The South". There's not a day that goes by that a huge pitcher, or two of tea isn't made in this house. During the Summer months, I love make Sun Tea. There's just no comparison to the flavor that the tea has when you allow Mother Nature to play with the ingredients! Here's my recipe for the BEST tea you'll have all summer!

Sun Tea

4-6 Tea Bags

Add the Tea Bags to a 2 quart glass container filled with water. Be sure to cover your container with plastic wrap if your jar doesn't have a lid to it. Sit your jar outdoors, preferably on your porch or window sill and allow the tea to sit in the sun for 3-5 hours. Made this way, the tea will taste more mellow to some because the sun brings out a different flavor. For a stronger tea flavor, simply add more tea bags. Hint: This is really good when you add crushed strawberries, raspberries or blackberries to it!!!

*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way

Recipe Alert: Firecracker Fried Chicken Legs

My children absolutely love chicken legs! While I'll admit, they're not my favorite thing, I make them because I know the kids will eat them right on up. I love experimenting with different seasonings and flavors to make meals different. I am not one who enjoys eating the same thing over and over again--it's boring!!! So here's a fave fried chicken recipe, that I'm sure you guys will love. I also take this very same recipe and make my hot wings using my Hooters Fake Out Buffalo Sauce and let me tell you...during football season, they're to die for!!!

Firecracker Fried Chicken

8 drumsticks
1/4 C Hot Pepper Sauce
1/3 C All-Purpose Flour
2 Tbsp Yellow Cornmeal
1/2 tsp salt

3 C Veggie Oil

Remove skin and marinate in Hot Pepper Sauce. You can do this overnight for super flavor or at least for an hour. In another bag, combine all dry ingredients and shake chicken. Once oil is ready, start frying!

This is the best recipe, I swear!!! Try it out...I'm sure you'll enjoy!

*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Recipe Alert: Mojito Pork Scallopini!

I absolutely love Chicken Marsala! On the rare occasion that we dine-out at Olive Garden, I have to order this dish! With that being said, Olive Garden's Chicken Marsala has nothing on this Mama's!! I am changing things up all the time and using many different flavors to kick it up a bit. Most of you know that Chicken Marsala is nothing more than Chicken Scallopini lightly floured and browned, served with sliced peppers and mushrooms served over angel hair pasta with a Marsala Wine reduction. You can take a Marsala recipe and tweak it every now and then to get a new flavor expolsion every time you make this dish. Here's the recipe broken down for you guys who have never made Marsala at home. Here's one of my creations that I first made for a date night in Florida and my hubby just loved it! It really is slap yo' Mama good!!!

Mojito Pork Scallopini

Pork Scallopini (allow 2 per person)

Bell Peppers (any colors)

Vidalia Onion

Flour

Salt/Pepper to Taste (you can use Lemon Pepper instead of pepper if desired)

Mojito

2 Tbsp EVOO

2 Tbsp Butter

Tbsp Lemon & Lime Juice

Lemon Basil Leaves (optional)

Take the juice of a lemon and lime and dress the Scallopini. Toss Pork into Ziploc bag with flour seasoned with salt and pepper. Shake until meat is completely covered. Get EVOO ready on medium to high heat and brown the pork on both sides. Add sliced Bell Peppers and Onion and allow to lightly cook. You want your veggies to still have a "snap" to them to brighten your dish. At this point, hit the pan with your Mojito, allow the alcohol to burn off some...Don't be shy with the Mojito! A couple splashes around the pan will do. Then add the butter. Allow sauce to thicken. Top with Lemon Basil Leaves and Mint if desired. Serve over angel hair pasta and thoroughly enjoy!!! Of course, you can serve with...Mojitos!!!

*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Trendy Pattern Alert: "Tee-rrific" Reusable Grocery Bags!

OK...this is where I toot my own horn, folks! I've lost 45 pounds since last summer. Not as much as I had hoped to lose by now, but with all that's going on, heck...I consider that an accomplishment!

With that being said, I've got tons of T-Shirts that I just absolutely love and hate to part with, even though they're too big for me. So I thought...there must be a way to turn these shirts into some reusable shopping bags! Well, after searching and searching, I think that I've found the best pattern for the job and look forward to starting on this project! We all need to do our best to help with the planet and lugging around those cute reusable totes instead of those ugly plastic shopping bags is a great, stylish way to do this!

Here's the link to Martha Stewart's Patten:

http://www.marthastewart.com/article/good-thing-t-shirt-bag

I can't wait to give this pattern a try. I've got tons of Concert, Nascar & Witty Tees that will make some tremendously cute reusable grocery bags!!!

*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Recipe Alert: Crock Pot Meatball Subs!

This is my absolute most favorite meatball sub recipe. It's super-easy and delicious. Just throw them in the crock pot and it will be ready for you come supper time~!!! To make it extremely easy, just use frozen meatballs. I've tried many different variations and this one is the absolute best!!!

Homemade Meatballs or Frozen (Homemade? Try my Hamburger recipe, just roll them up & freeze!)

Your fave Marinara Sauce (2 Cans)

Shredded Provolone & Mozzarella Cheese

Toasted Sub Rolls

Green Bell Pepper & Onions

Top with green onion before serving

Simply toss everything, except for the cheese into the crock pot and let them cook for 4-5 hours until done. About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle cheese on top and let sit while toasting the buns.

My kids love this easy and inexpensive recipe, which makes me love it even more.

I serve these subs with homemade steak fries and cheese sauce. The kids love it... Where are the veggies you might ask?!?!? They're in my homemade meatballs!!!! A sneaky Mama is a good Mama!!!

*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!!!

Jeremiah 29:11-13

When you "let go and let God", amazing things will happen. The Lord's getting ready to move mightily within my family in many different ways. I can feel it. I believe it. I receive it!

Let The Party Begin!!!

Today's the official LAST DAY OF SCHOOL for my babies and I can't wait!!! I absolutely love this time of year. There's no schedule and many laughs to be had! In honor of this day, I thought that I'd share with you a few easy ways to take basic food and dress them up to make them entertaining for the kids...

Everyone knows about the "Pancake Face". Just make HUGE Pancakes and offer toppings such as chocolate chips, cherries, whipped cream and nuts and let them decorate their breakfast. Don't worry about the sugary toppings, they can work them off outside while playing!

My kids love to make "Caramel Apple Monsters"! You simply make your own caramel apples or buy them pre-made. If you choose to make the apples yourself, use different candies to decorate your Monsters faces. Such as M&M's, Candy Corn, Nerds, Gummies...the list goes on and on! If you buy your apples pre-made, make sure to buys some frosting to use as glue to make your decorations stick. I prefer making them myself because you can control the nutrition and fat content.

My absolute fave is "Fruit Roll-Up Sushi"!!! The ingredients are super-easy and simple. Green Roll-Ups, Red Twizzlers, & Rice Krispy Treats. Make your Rice Krispy Treats as usual, once the mixture is ready, spred some onto a roll-up place twizzler in the middle and roll. Allow the roll time to set-up, then slice it into sushi pieces. The kids just think this is a trip and have the best time making these. Once you get really good at the "basic roll", you can start making different things such as "Sashimi Candy"... Just take the fruit flavored Tootsie rolls and mold them to look like fish pieces or just use the Swedish Fish if your kids like them (some don't) and top them onto the Rice Krispy mixture. The kids have the best time!!!

The important thing is to just have fun with your kids and to make their summer break creative. They've worked so hard throughout the year and deserve the break to just be kids. Get out there and enjoy your babies--they grow up way too fast!!!

*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Web Site Alert: Heloise

Most of you know that I like to clean houses. Odd I know, but I do really enjoy it. It's a stress reliever and I make money at something I love to do--you can't beat that! Ever since I was a young child, I remember reading Heloise articles. It seems like every month when it was my turn to read Mama's Good Housekeeping Magazine, I would immediately flip to Heloise's advice column. I thought she was a genius and still do. Whenever I need some domestic goddess tips that my Mom can't answer, I turn to one of my fave sites, http://www.heloise.com/ and absorb the information. Heloise's site has an answer to almost every question you can think of and the site is amazingly helpful!


Today, I am cleaning a 3600 square foot home and believe you me, I am thrilled to try any and all tips that I can use to make my cleaning day easier and ensure my customer's satisfaction. I've been cleaning this house for a while now, so I have that system down pat. But, in a home with 2 children and a couple of fur-babies, there's no such thing as a "system", so I am always interested in tips to make my job easier.


When you get a chance, check out her site. In my opinion, Martha ain't got nothing on this gal!!! I am sure that you'll enjoy it and find her tips very useful!



*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Bright Ideas: Do You Have Your Survival "Kit" Ready?

Thursday is the last day of school for my children.  After that bell rings and Mrs. Lisa drops them off at the bus stop for the final time this year, they're completely mine for the summer!!  With that being said, today I went and did my grocery shopping for my "survival kit".  There's not a Mama on this earth who doesn't hear the words "I'm hungry!" at least a million times a day.  In my house, I have set kitchen times during the summer.  The kids get the breakfast of their choice, a cold cut sub, pickle & fruit for lunch and of course an awesome dinner!  No matter how much my kids eat, they're always hungry---it's never ending!!!  That's why for my sanity (and their need to munch), I have 2 drawers stocked full of items for them to eat on. 

My crisper drawer is loaded with individual Ziploc bags filled with carrot sticks, celery, grapes and dips for them to use.  The kids know this drawer as being called the "green light drawer".  They're always welcome to grab a snack from this drawer.  Everything in it is healthy and great for them.  I also have a drawer filled with yogurt, pudding, jello, go-gurts, fruit snacks, etc.  Just about anything a kid can think of that they just love to feast on.  During the summer, they get times where this drawer is available.  This way, I can control just how much "junk" they consume. 

This idea has worked in my house since RJ was in Kindergarten and I've done it ever since.  I spent a total of $45 bucks getting my survival kit ready, this included all snacks, deli meat, juices, drinks and more.   Without my coupons, it would have been close to 100 bucks, so I'm happy!   To me, there's no price on my sanity so I have no problem whatsoever spending less than 50 bucks to get me prepped and ready for the summer. 

Also, keep in mind that even though school is out and we want our kids to have fun, we need to encourage at least an hour worth of educational time a day.  I encourage you to chat with your child's teacher and see what they think your "student" should aim to improve over the summer and work on those skills.  Often times, a teacher will have no problem giving you a list of websites for them to review on or old workbooks that are just going to get tossed into the garbage at the close of school.  Crafts are also a fun and constructive way to pass the time.  Donalyn and I are going to be taking her favorite pair of jeans that she has grown out of and turning them into a purse.  We start this project on Monday, there's no telling how long it will take, but it's sure to be a blast!

I hope you parents & grandmas enjoy the last final moments of freedom.  Get your "Survival Kit" and ideas ready!!!!  Once that bell rings the last day of school, there's  no turning back! 


*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Recipe Alert: Kid Friendly Marinades!

I know most of you Moms will side with me on this...having a "picky eater" in the house can be very difficult!  Donalyn will eat just about anything you serve her without any problems.  If it's something she's skeptical about, all I have to do is tell her that I "think" she's eaten it before and she'll spout off with an "Oh yeah, I remember!" and eat it.  Now, RJ's another story...  I can't get that kiddo to eat something "different" to save my life!  I've made him sit at the table and stare at his plate until he (didn't) eat his dinner.  I've tried the "saving it for later" method and well, that never works...so I just started to get creative.  For instance, RJ loves my Mashed Potatoes, so every now and then, I add mashed cauliflower and cheese to the potatoes for a different twist and he scarfs it all up.  There's also different meats that RJ doesn't like, but if I use a homemade marinade/dressing that he loves, then he's more than willing to try anything and he usually loves it!  Here are some of my fave marinades and sauces that both of my kids love.  If you've got a picky eater, I encourage you to get those healthy foods in there somehow...Camouflage them if you have to!  Teach them to love their veggies now... The health benefits will last a lifetime!!!


Teriyaki Marinade

My kids love this marinade on baked Chicken Legs!  One of their fave dinners include Teryaki Chicken Legs, Homemade Mac & Cheese & Steamed Broccoli with Teriyaki Dipping Sauce.  This sauce can be used on any meat and holds up great on the grill.  As with any meat, the longer you marinade--the better!!!  I also make this and keep in the fridge to use as a dressing with leftover grilled steak and blue cheese...one of my faves!  To thicken as a dip for nuggets or veggies, just simmer the sauce and let it stand to thicken while preparing dinner...YUM!

1/2 c. soy sauce
1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
1/4 c. honey
1/2 tsp. Accent
1 clove garlic, minced
Black pepper, to taste
Chopped onion or green pepper to taste (optional)


"It's A Hoot"  Buffalo Sauce (Shrimp/Chicken)

If you love "Hooters" Buffalo Wings or Chicken, then you will love this sauce.  My kids actually like stuff with a kick and will eat this!  You can control the heat level of this sauce for younger taste buds by using less hot sauce.  When I make the Buffalo Shrimp, I usually make a ton and have leftovers for salads, one of my fave meals in the summer.  So this is a big money saver for me!

1/4 cup Texas Pete hot sauce
1/4 cup butter
1/8 teaspoon paprika
Dash of black pepper
Dash of garlic powder

Combine all ingredients and heat...


Pineapple Sauce

My kids absolutely love this sauce to dip their nuggets in.  I'm telling you, try this!  It will make your toes curl!!!  Again, I use this sauce for grilled chicken, Tilapia & Rice...it's amazing!

1 c. pineapple juice
2 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. cornstarch
1/4 c. pineapple juice
1 can crushed pineapple, drained
2 tbsp. cider vinegar
2 tsp. prepared mustard
Sliced fresh pineapple

Combine 1 cup pineapple juice and sugar in a small saucepan; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves.  Mix cornstarch and 1/4 cup pineapple juice; stir into pineapple juice mixture in saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Stir in next 3 ingredients. Serve warm

I hope you give these dippers a try.  These sauces are very versatile and can be used for just about anything!  Tonight, we're having one of the kid's  favorite meals--Chicken Teryaki.  I can't wait!!!!


*Remember...your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Event Alert: 34th Annual Norfolk Harborfest!

It's that time of year again!!!  It's time for the City of Norfolk, VA to ring in Hampton Road's official start to summer with Harborfest!  I have loved going to this event since I was a young child, there's absolutely nothing like it.  There are so many wonderful events that we literally take advantage of the celebration the entire weekend.  To me, there's nothing more beautiful to me than taking the ferry from Portsmouth into Norfolk and enjoying the festivities!   If you live in the Hampton Roads area, I encourage you to take advantage of this weekend and have a blast.  There's something for everyone to do and the fun is endless!  Here' a link to the schedule of events to better plan your weekend: 
http://www.festevents.org/event/1/harborfest

The Parade of Sail starts at 12 noon today, which is a blast!  You get to see all the ships sail into the city and it makes for some really spectacular pictures.  Also, I must plug that Country Music Star Chris Cagle is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Sunday.  It's gonna be a blast, I can't wait!!!!


*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Recipe Alert: It's A Wrap!

There's nothing more satisfying for breakfast, lunch or dinner than wraps.  They tend to please everyone and it's usually a full meal combined into one wrap.  They're perfect for busy weekends and hectic schedules.  Tonight for dinner, we are having Caesar Chicken Wraps.  It's a quick and easy recipe.  You can choose to use your favorite bottled dressing or make your own.  Of course, I absolutely couldn't share with you my fave Chicken Wraps without mentioning our favorite breakfast burrito ideas and Surf & Turf Fajitas!  You could literally take these ideas and feed your family for a week.  All of these recipes are kid-tested and approved and are so much fun to make.  I hope you enjoy these fantastic recipes!!!


Chicken Caesar Wrap

4  tortillas
12 ounces grilled chicken breast, cubed
2 cups cooked black beans
4 cups shredded lettuce 
4 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
4 tablespoons roasted red peppers
Caesar Dressing

Warm tortillas over a gas flame, in a low temperature oven, or in the microwave. In the middle of each tortilla, place 3 ounces grilled chicken, 1/2 cup black beans, 1 cup lettuce, 1 tablespoon each  feta and red peppers. Top with Caesar dressing and roll up. Serve immediately.


Breakfast Burritos

1/2 lb. smoked sausage, cubed
1 med. onion, diced
1 med. bell pepper, diced
1 tomato, diced
1 tbsp. garlic, minced
1/2 tsp Greek seasoning
8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese
4 eggs
8  flour tortillas

Saute all ingredients except eggs and cheese on medium high heat for 10 minutes. Add eggs; cook until eggs are done. Wrap in flour tortillas and add cheese.

Breakfast Burritos are so versatile!  This is just one of the recipes that I use.  I tend to use whatever is in the fridge on a Saturday morning as well and they always come out awesome.  The kids love fried potatoes, green peppers, bacon, even thinly sliced leftover flank steak, with eggs and all the burrito condiments.  YUMMO!


Surf & Turf Fajitas

a 12 oz flank or skirt steak
6 large shrimp
Green & Red Pepper
2 Jalapeno (optional)
1 large Purple Onion
6 tortillas
cheese and sour cream for topping
Marinate steak in store bought fajita marinade for about 1/2 hour.

Meanwhile, slice green & red peppers into strips, Cut Purple Onion into rings, and slice jalapenos into rings.
Place steak on grill with low heat. Saute vegetables in skillet over med-high heat. Skewer shrimp and add to grill during last 5 minutes of steak. Wrap tortillas in foil and throw onto grill as well.
Slice steak into strips and assemble your fajitas any way you like.

This recipe easily makes 6 Fajitas.  If you need more, it's easy just double up on the protein.



I hope you guys enjoy these recipes.  We absolutely love them!!!  I can't wait for you guys to give them a try!!!  If you have any wrap recipes, please share with me.  It's absolutely one of the best ways of eatin'...  Nothin' like using your hands!!!


*Remember...your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Recipe Alert: Chocolate Mousse!

There's nothing more satisfying for dessert than chocolate.  My kids absolutely love this easy dessert.  I hope your family enjoys it too!


Chocolate Mousse

1 envelope gelatin

1/4 cup cold water
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 1/4 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed


In small saucepan, sprinkle gelatin over cold water; let stand 1 minute. Stir over low heat until gelatin is completely dissolved. Stir in butter until melted.


In blender or food processor process milk, sugar cocoa powder and vanilla until blended. While processing, gradually add gelatin mixture and process until blended. Pour into bowl, then blend in whipped topping. Turn into dessert wishes or 4-cup bowl; chill until firm.



*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

*Recipe Alert: Mama's Pot Roast!

I make many different Pot Roasts, but this one is truly the best one on the planet!  The flavors are absolutely to die for! When I make this roast for get togethers,  I use an Aluminum Roasting Pan, since the roast is so good, this guarantees that I have absolutely nothing to bring back home with me!!!  Try this recipe and I guarantee you will be hooked!


3 to 4 lb. boneless beef chuck pot roast

Water
Red Wine ( 2-3 times around the pan)
1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix
2 Tbsp. Flour
Cream of Mushroom Soup


In a heavy saucepan brown the beef chuck roast well.  Use the Red Wine to scrape up the drippings. Add 2 cups of water and the Lipton onion soup mix. Simmer, covered 3 hours or until beef chuck roast is tender, turning occasionally. Blend the flour with 1/4 cup water and then stir into the gravy. For more gravy, I also use a can of cream of mushroom soup (you can make your own, but the end result is always the same).  Cook, stirring until the gravy is thickened. Makes 6 to 8 servings.


When I make this recipe using the crockpot, I toss my veggies in with the meat after browning.  If I prepare this roast using the stove, I add the potatoes, carrots, celery and onion half way through the cooking process to ensure that they don't overcook.  This makes the entire meal look as if they came out of a magazine!



*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Summer Make-Up Tips!

The heat of the Summer is upon us.  While we all know we have to change our wardrobes around for the season, very few of us remember that we must adjust our make-up to fit the season as well.  Here are a few of my tips that I use to lighten up my make-up for the summer months.


PRIMER IS A MUST!!!  Primer helps in so many ways!  They are loaded with moisturizer as well as they fill in the little lines and wrinkles that "some" of us have.  Primer also tones down the shine that plagues us women during the warm months.   Primers vary in prices and can be found at any major superstore to fit into every budget.  I'm the sample queen, so I always ask for a few at department store counters.  My fave is still Revlon!  It's 9 bucks and it lasts for an extremely long time.  I brought mine in December and still have it.  I usually have a BOGO coupon for Revlon Products, so when I buy my foundation, I get my Primer *free*!!

SPF MOISTURIZER!!!  I've used the same moisturizer my entire life and have always loved it. Oil of Olay is cheap and just does the job. You've got to protect your body from the sun, especially your face. Your older self will thank you!!!

LIGHTEN YOUR FOUNDATION!!!  You can do this by adding a few drops of moisturizer to the palm of your hand, add some of your foundation and mix.  This way, your foundation is more sheer and you still have your favorite coverage.  This definitely lightens and brightens your face without having you look weighed down.

SUN-KISSED CHEEKS!!!  During the warm months, I replace my fave blush with bronzer.  It warms your skin up and just makes everything "pop".  Bronzer can sculpt a face to the point of amazement.  It's an absolute must-have!  You just have to make sure that you don't over-do it, otherwise you could look like a clown!

EXPERIMENT WITH COLOR!!!  This is the time to try out some crazy eye shadows and lip glosses ( I don't use lip stick in the summer, to me it's just too much)!!  There are tons of colors out there that will compliment everyone.  Don't over-do it.  You just want a touch of color to make things pop.  This is a definite way to play up the eyes!

MATTE POWDER!!!  Always have a matte powder in your purse for your t-zone.  When you have a lot of oils on your face you just looked "rushed" and sloppy.  This can be easily fixed with blotting papers or powder.  It takes seconds to touch-up and lasts a long time, especially if you use powder.

TOSS THE LIP STICK!!!  Lip Sticks are just yucky in the summer.  Use chap sticks or lip glosses.  I love the tinted Burt's Bees Lip Stains and Glosses.  They aren't goopy and offer your lips protection from the sun!  You should definitely avoid lip liner!  I never use it, but if you do, in the summer your lip color tends to fade leaving you with just a line that's not appealing.

WATERPROOF IS A MUST!!!  In the Summer, waterproof make-up is the best!  There's nothing worse than running eye make-up!  You don't want to spend the day by the pool looking like you belong at a Kiss Concert, so swap out your fave mascara for a waterproof one.  My fave is NYC's Curl Mascara & Eyeliner and they cost a buck a piece virtually ANYWHERE!  You can't beat that!


Of course, the best thing for you to do is find the products that work for you and just tweak them in the summer.  Once I get my summer tan I stick with moisturizer, bronzer, eyeliner mascara & lip gloss.  The sun is your best friend and will give you the perfect color as long as you don't over-do it!!

Please, don't forget to use your sunblock this summer, your skin can be your best feature as long as you treat it right!!!  I hope you find these tips helpful and put them to use.  With these tips you will always be beautiful!!!!


*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Staycations: Fun Right At Your Fingertips!!!

According to the White House, the economy is picking back up and this summer is expected to be one of the biggest travel seasons that we've had in a very long time.  With the economy still unstable, our family has chosen to spend yet another summer enjoying "Staycations".   Last Summer was the first summer that we actually did this just about every weekend and the children loved it!  There are so many activities going on, whether you live in Hampton Roads or not.  All you have to do is google for a list of activities going on in your little corner of the world and oodles of opportunities are right there at your finger tips!

Last year, we noticed a huge difference with the kids. They were actually sad to see the summer season close.  My children happen to LOVE school!  As much as I would love to take the credit for that, they did not inherit their love for the educational process from me.  Most summers are usually spent with us taking a 2-3 week vacations to Bob's "heaven", Washington State. While the kids thoroughly enjoy every minute of it, it tends to wipe out the bank for a bit.  About 2 years ago, we drove cross-country from Florida to Washington State and had an absolute blast!  We stopped in each state and learned so much about each one.  It was such an amazing experience that I thought how stupid we'd been to have not taken the opportunity to do that in our own hometown!!  So, last year we decided to try vacationing here at home and we all loved the experience!  The kids learned so many things about their state that they wouldn't have learned anywhere else.  As a Mom, I absolutely love fun, educational trips!  There's just no bigger joy than seeing your kids have a blast and knowing that they are cramming so much knowledge into their little noggins!!

This July, we are planning to knock out Williamsburg (again)!  Williamsburg is one of the most beautiful places not just in Virginia, but in this country.  It's loaded full of activities, amusement parks, shopping, museums and historical settings.  The opportunities are just endless at "The Old Country"!  If you're military, active duty or retired, this is your chance to take your family to many museums for free.  Most of these places would easily run you about 50-100 bucks to enjoy; but as a "thank-you" for your service to this great nation, many of Williamsburg's Museums and Amusement parks (Bush Gardens does this each year) are giving you FREE ADMISSION!  This is a great opportunity to have almost an absolutely free staycation experience for the entire family!!!

Here is a website loaded full of information for you to do in Hampton Roads this summer.  Just click on the link to the places that you are interested in and the site will take you to all the information you need, including admission prices. 

http://www.virginia.org/site/features.asp?featureid=42


My advice to you guys, is to snag you a calendar and start jotting down a few activities each week and plan them out just as if your were tourist.  The kids love it and it will rekindle your love affair with the state that you live in!!!


*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

We All Scream For Ice Cream: Tips & Recipes For Everyone's FAVE Summer Treat

My children absolutely love ice cream! While most kids eagerly wait for the ice cream man to pass through their neighborhood streets with his truck loaded with ice cream treats that have been around since my youth, my children know that as long as there's ice cream in the freezer, this Mama is not gonna buy two ice creams from the truck for the price of what I can buy a whole gallon of Edy's for. Let's face it, The prices have gone WAY up since we were kids!! It's just not gonna happen! Now, don't jump on me just yet! My kiddos are plenty spoiled and do have their own money. Should they opt to purchase a frozen treat from the ice cream man with their money, they are more than welcome to do so. I just have always failed to see the point. Ice Cream is so much better at home and really the sky's the limit when it comes to making the perfect treat.

For what you spend on 2 nights of summer dessert from that darned ice cream man, you could easily stock up your ice cream cubby with cones and toppings for ice cream treats that will last you almost 2 weeks!!! The Dollar Tree is loaded with different treats that will help you get your ice cream fix!! Use your imagination with your kids and go crazy!!!! You can just add the basics, hot fudge, strawberries, gummy bears, m&m's and sprinkles... Who doesn't love sprinkles?!?!?! For a more updated "adult treat " you can use coffee flavored candies, add a teaspoon of instant mocha to some Hershey's syrup and you'll definitely perk up your average cone.

My go-to web site for ice cream ideas is: http://www.ice-cream-recipes.com/ . This site has absolutely everything on it from home made ice creams to unusual toppings and homemade sauces. I refer to this web site at least once a week and have used several recipes to make ice cream night fun.

Some nights an Ice Cream Sundae or Cone just won't do, no matter how you slice it! When new summer cravings surface, I invite the kiddos into the kitchen to help me make a few of our faves! One of my faves is Peach-Pecan Ice Cream Pie!!! It's as delicious as it sounds and so very simple! We also love S'more Pie! Who doesn't love s'mores? You can't beat the taste! The combo of flavors will forever be unmatched!!! These treats will have everyone smiling!!! I encourage you to put these ideas and tips to use. The recipes, while they've been around for years, will still have family and friends begging for you to bring these treats to summer cook outs; but they're so easy to make that you won't complain!!!



Peach-Pecan Ice Cream Pie


1/2 cups finely ground or crushed pecan shortbread cookies
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup water
1 1/4 cups whipping cream
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 quarts (or 4 pints) peach ice cream, slightly softened
1 cup pecans, toasted, coarsely chopped (about 4 ounces)
1 cup (about) pecan halves, toasted

Preheat oven to 325°F. Butter 9-inch-diameter spring form pan with 2 3/4-inch-high sides. Mix cookie crumbs and melted butter in medium bowl until crumbs are evenly moistened. Press crumb mixture firmly onto bottom and 1 inch up sides of prepared pan. Bake until crust is set and pale golden, about 15 minutes. Cool completely.

Combine sugar and 1/2 cup water in heavy medium saucepan. Stir over medium-low heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to medium-high; boil without stirring until syrup is deep amber color, occasionally brushing down sides of pan with wet pastry brush and swirling pan, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat. Gradually add cream (mixture will bubble vigorously). Stir over low heat until any caramel bits dissolve and sauce is smooth, about 1 minute. Stir in vanilla. Let stand until cool but still pourable, about 1 hour.

Drizzle 1/4 cup cooled caramel sauce over bottom of crust. Freeze until caramel sets, about 10 minutes. Spread 1 quart ice cream over caramel in crust. Sprinkle chopped pecans over ice cream. Drizzle 1/2 cup caramel sauce over ice cream. Freeze until caramel sets, about 10 minutes. Spread remaining ice cream over. Freeze until top of pie is firm, about 1 hour.

Arrange pecan halves in 3 concentric circles around top of pie. Drizzle 1/4 cup caramel sauce over pie. Freeze pie until frozen solid, at least 4 hours. (Can be prepared 5 days ahead. Cover tightly with foil; keep frozen. Cover and chill remaining caramel sauce.)

Rewarm remaining caramel sauce over low heat, stirring often. Cut around pan sides to loosen pie. Let pie soften slightly at room temperature, about 10 minutes. Remove pan sides. Serve pie with warm caramel sauce.

**I have also used store-brought Smuckers Caramel Sauce for time purposes (this is where your "ice cream treat bin" will come in handy)!!



We Want S'more Ice Cream Pie!



1-1/4 cups graham cracker crumb
1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted
1/4 cup sugar
4 cups vanilla or chocolate ice cream, slightly softened
3 cups miniature marshmallows
4 (1.55 oz. each) Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bars, finely chopped
Whipped topping or sweetened whipped cream(optional)
Additional graham cracker pieces, miniature marshmallows and chopped Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bars(optional)

Butter bottom and sides of 9-inch pie plate.
Stir together graham cracker crumbs, butter and sugar until well blended. Press crumb mixture evenly on bottom and up sides of prepared pie plate. Freeze 5 minutes before filling.
Stir together ice cream, marshmallows and chocolate bar pieces; spoon into crust. Cover; freeze until firm.
Soften slightly to serve. Garnish with whipped topping, graham cracker pieces, marshmallows and chocolate bar pieces, if desired.



I hope you find these tips and recipes enjoyable. The most important thing, no matter how you choose to do it, is to enjoy your family!!! The money that your family will save by not going to the ice cream truck every evening combined with the yummy variations of ice cream that you can make at home will have you feeling sorry for the other uneducated mothers every time you hear that music!!!!






*Remember... Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Recipe For A Happy Life

Life is full of trials, many ups & downs. We must learn to overcome life's obstacles and cherish the joys, for they  mold us into who we are.

Sometimes, I wonder if the people who think "they've arrived", realize just how far off the map they really are. Sure, they have their jobs, fast cars, super nice houses and five star restaurants; but are they REALLY happy? It amazes me how the people who really think they've got it all, at the end of life's journey turn out to have nothing.  They were so busy living for "things" that they've forgotten to enjoy their families.  The richest people often seem to be the most poor in spirit.


Enjoy every moment of your life, good or bad. Live it for the Lord, for He gave it to you as a gift so make the most of it. Follow this recipe for a happy life and you're sure to smile!


One cup of Confidence
One cup of Love
In a pan of Happiness
Mix the above.
Add a pinch of Tenderness
A tablespoon of Truth
Stir well in the Sunshine
Roll out a loving Trust
Flour well with Contentment
Keep all free from Strife
Fill with Understanding
And bake well all your Life


*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Sunday Laugh!

Bursts Of Inspiration!

 

*Recipe Alert! Easy Chicken Pot Pie

 

I'm definitely in the mood for comfort food on this Sunday.  I'm thinking that I'm gonna come home from church and make a quick and easy chicken pot pie!!!  Here's the recipe, you'll be shocked at how easy and super delicious it is!


EASY Chicken Pot Pie

1 2/3 cups Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers frozen mixed vegetables, thawed

1 cup cut-up cooked chicken
1 can (10 3/4 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup Original Bisquick mix
1/2 cup milk
1 egg

Heat oven to 400°F. In ungreased 9-inch pie plate, stir vegetables, chicken and soup.

In medium bowl, stir remaining ingredients until blended. Pour into pie plate.
Bake uncovered about 30 minutes or until crust golden brown.

 
I will be serving this Pot Pie with my Strawberry Salad!  It's gonna be delish!!!


*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Giggles!

Even Noah had to learn as he went along!!!!  :o)

*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

*Recipe Alert! Take-Out Fake-Out: PF Chang's Lettuce Wraps!

After such a fun evening last night, man I am zonked!!!  I've been debating about what to cook my hungry little munchkins tonight and I think that I've decided to order take-out from my kitchen!  I've got the PERFECT PF Chang's Fake-Out Chicken Lettuce Wrap Recipe ever!!!  So of course, I must share with the rest of the class!!!!

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Boston, Bib or butter lettuce leaves
1 pound ground or cubed chicken breast
1 large onion,chopped
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons Asian chili pepper sauce
1 can (8 ounce size) sliced water chestnuts -- drained, finely chopped
1 bunch green onions -- thinly sliced
2 teaspoons Asian sesame oil

Rinse lettuce leaves, keeping them whole. Set aside to drain.

Cook chicken in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring often to break up the meat. Add onion, garlic, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger, vinegar and chili sauce. Cook until the meat is crumbled and brown. Add water chestnuts and green onions. Cook until onions begin to wilt, about 2 minutes.
Stir in sesame oil. Arrange lettuce leaves on the outer edge of a platter. Spoon meat mixture in center. Allow diners to spoon meat mixture into lettuce leaves and eat like a taco.


*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Bursts Of Inspiration!

Donut Mania: Happy National Donut Day!

In honor of today being "National Donut Day", I thought that I'd share a few interesting facts and recipes on donuts!  Donuts, or "Doughnuts" were introduced into America by Dutch settlers who also shared with  us  many different desserts such as cookies, cobbler and cream pies.  In 1864, a 16 year-old boy named Hansen  Gregory, invented the first ring-shaped doughnut, or "oil cake" as they called it.  He said the he made the hole in the middle by using a salt and pepper tin from a ship...SMART KID!!!

Americans consume over 10 billion donuts a year.  Without a doubt, Krispy Kreme is the most popular Donut in America.  Krispy Kreme serves over 1.3 million donuts daily in America alone.  Also, you can't even begin to think about Donuts without mentioning...DUNKIN!  Who can forget the commercials with the little guy?!!?  Dunkin is still going strong, selling over 50 different donuts and serving over 3 million customers daily!  So, one thing's for sure, whether we wait for the "hot and ready" sign or we "run on dunkins", Americans loves their Donuts!

Here's a quick Donut Recipe that takes very little effort and time...


Quick Biscuit Donuts

Canned Pillsbury Biscuits
Oil
Powdered Sugar
Hershey's Chocolate

It's very basic.  Take the Biscuits and use a small round cookie cutter or your finger and poke a hole in the center if desired.  It's not necessary.
Get oil nice and hot in pan and when ready, toss in the biscuits. 
Once the biscuits are browned on all sides, take out and cover with confectioner's sugar or chocolate while hot. 
Serve warm!


Berry-Filled Donuts

4 cups vegetable oil

1  package refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
3/4 cup seedless strawberry jam
1 cup confectioners' sugar

In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 375 degrees F. Fry biscuits, a few at a time, for 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Cut a small hole in the corner of a pastry or plastic bag; insert a very small tip. Fill bag with jam. Push the tip through the side of each doughnut to fill with jam. Dust with confectioners' sugar while warm. Serve immediately.





Don't forget to take advantage of "Donut Day" and get your free donut!!!  If not, make these!  They take seconds, kids love them and they are oh, so yummy!


*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

"See Ya Soon Then!": Care Packaging Ideas for Our Military And Their Families

Last night was so much fun!!!!  I spent the evening with one of my best friends, Lisa.  Lisa and her family were heaven-sent when we were stationed in Florida.  We were all miserable and hated being stationed in Florida, in the middle of nowhere and away from our families; but when we were all together, time seemed to pass by a little quicker and the laughs were endless.  I remember when Lisa moved into her new house from base housing and she called me up saying:  "Guess what me and you got?  We got us a pool!"  It was always "us", we always had a blast together, good times or bad.

Last night, we very seldom talked about the looming deployment.  We actually spent half the night trying to pass some NCO test that she had to take, but we spent the evening laughing and having a great time.  I think we also realized how much older we've gotten since Florida, because before I knew it, we were O-U-T!!!

I don't know what I would do if I were in Lisa's position.  She's going to be gone for an entire year away from her girls...I'm not sure I could do it, but I am thankful to all the men and women who do.  They leave their families in order to ensure our freedoms.  I can't imagine what this country would do without them.

So...it got me thinking about cool gift ideas to send overseas as well as to the girls while their Mama is away.  Of course, for Military Personnel, You can always send them the basics:  toiletries, sealed snacks, books, magazines, DVDs, etc.  A lot of people like to send homemade goodies.  You can do this, however, the military will tell you that they aren't crazy over it.  The items tend to sit in a warehouse for a while, waiting to be shipped and can attract bugs if not sealed properly, even if you think they are.  Also, every box has the ability to be randomly searched and if homemade goodies are found, for safety reasons, they immediately toss them out.  So, while the thought is nice and the servicemen do appreciate the gesture, it's not the best idea. 

The kids can get involved by making them homemade gifts.  For example, if you know that the serviceman needs notebooks for classes and journals, have the kids decorate the covers.  This was a huge hit on both of Bob's deployments.  I was actually getting requests for these!  They also love water bottles, so have the kids make them "messages in a bottle".  This way, the card is guaranteed not to get mashed!

If you know a military member who has had to leave their children behind for a long period of time, please consider sending the kids a care package every now and then.  A great idea, is to send them a care packaging kit loaded full of construction paper, crayons, markers, scissors, beads, glue, glitter, etc.  They can use this kit to make their Mommy or Daddy presents while they are away.  Children absolutely love this idea!  It's also a way to help them express their emotions while their parent is away.

I hope you enjoyed these tips and consider putting them to use.  If you don't have a Military Family Member on deployment, I encourage you to adopt one.  There are programs out there that will connect you with a shipmate or soldier who may not get care packages often.  Often times, you can pick a ship, address a package specifying male or female and ship it and  the ship will make sure it gets to someone.  I used to always send extra packages when my hubby was away and he would see to it that it got to servicemen and women that otherwise wouldn't have one and it would brighten their day!  It's the least we can do for those who are serving our country and ensuring our freedom~!


*Remember...Your life is way more than average...so go out and live it in a BIG way!

*Recipe Alert: Berry Delicious Treats!!

My love affair with strawberries started when I was around 1.  It began with my favorite cartoon character, Strawberry Shortcake!  One of my most wonderful memory as a child was strawberry pickin' with my Mom.  We still go from time to time and we have such a blast!  This time of year, Strawberries are EVERYWHERE!!!  I don't know a single soul who is not crazy over the delicious fruit!  The commissary sells huge containers of strawberries for less than 3 bucks, so I at least purchase 2 of them a week.  Here are a couple of my favorite recipes that allow the star fruit to shine through!!  I hope you enjoy!!!


Strawberry Pizza Pie

My children absolutely love this recipe!!!  Anything that gets them into the kitchen for family time, I am willing to make over and over again.  I have also taken this as a desert for school "pizza parties" and it's a huge hit!

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup white sugar
2 1/2 cups strawberries, sliced
1/2 (2 ounce) package strawberry Danish dessert mix (e.g. Junket)
1 cup water

Heat your oven to 350.  Mix flour, confectioner's sugar and melted butter.  Press firmly into pizza pan.  Bake for 15 minutes and cool completely.  Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar until well blended, spread over "pizza crust".  Top Cheese with Strawberries.  Mix Danish mix and water, bring to a boil for one minute, pour on top of Strawberries.  Then chill completely before serving. 


Spinach and Strawberry Salad

My honey absolutely loves this salad.  It looks and tastes so elegant!!!  It's perfect for an in-home date night!!!

2 bunches spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces
4 cups sliced strawberries
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 tablespoon poppy seeds

In a large bowl, toss together the spinach and strawberries.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, sugar, paprika, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds. Pour over the spinach and strawberries, and toss to coat.


Strawberry Nut Bread

If you love Banana Nut Bread, You will definitely love this!  I have also mashed banana and added it to this recipe!  You can't go wrong with "Strawberry-Banana anything", lol!!!

1 cup butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon lemon extract
4 eggs
3 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon soda
1 cup strawberry jam
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup pecan or walnut pieces

Preheat oven to 350.  Cream butter and sugar until light. Beat in vanilla and lemon extracts. Add the 4 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Sift together the sifted flour, salt, cream of tartar, and soda. Combine strawberry jam and sour cream. Add jam mixture to creamed mixture alternately with the dry ingredients. Stir in the pecans or walnuts. Pour into prepared loaf pans and bake for about 50 minutes, or until a wooden pick or cake tester inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes; remove from pan and cool completely before slicing.


*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

"Splish-Splash, I Was Taking A Bath!"- Summer Spa Recipes!!

I was so shocked by all of the emails and comments that I got concerning my spa recipes.  I love learning that people have tried my suggestions and have fell in love with them!!!  Here are a few of my summer tips and "spa recipes" that I love to spoil myself with in the summer.  I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!!


Scented Bath Water

There are many herbs out there that will work double-duty for you!!!   After a long, summer day, fresh mint isn't just good for your mojitos! Toss a few sprigs into your bath water to cool your summer skin down a bit!  Lavender also works really well at night to relax you and to help get you well-rested for the next fun-filled day.  You can buy these herbs for pennies compared to the bubble baths and body wash's out there and they work 100x's better!


Quick Face Masks & Scrubs

Banana Mash:  Mash a banana with 1 tbsp of honey and 2 tbsp of sour cream.  Leave on for 10-15 minutes then wipe off.  The banana and honey are excellent for your skin and the sour cream goes to work for you by putting a chill on sun-kissed skin! 

Strawberry Shortcake:  You simply use the above recipe, just swap out the banana with 2 big strawberries and the sour cream with  plain yogurt.  You can still use the sour cream if you have that on hand.

Morning Oatmeal Scrub: Here's to another double-duty ingredient:  OATMEAL!!!  Use your morning's oatmeal, combine a mashed fruit of your choice and scrub away!  You can also, let this sit on your face for 10 minutes until it hardens and rinse.

My fave is still the morning coffee!  I use this tip almost every other day!  Add half a tsp to your fave moisturizer, mix and scrub away!  The caffeine instantly wakes up your skin and you definitely feel rejuvenated!

Lemonade Scrub:  Add about 2 tbsp of lemon to a couple tsp of sugar and you can use this for a head to toe body scrub.  It's awesome and the lemon will perk you right up!


Love Those Tootsies

Make a quick citrus soak.  Add mint and the juice of one orange, lemon and grapefruit to a tub of water.  Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes.  Use your Lemonade Scrub to exfoliate those tootsies!!!  Finish off with your fave lotion and you're good to go!


Rejuvenating Hair Rinse

You can use any of your fave herbs with this one.  Bring a cup of water to a boil, add in your herbs and let cool.  Once it is completely cool and chilled, use this on wet hair to naturally rinse chlorine out and to perk your hair right up.  Rosemary  works wonders on your hair and is an excellent herb to start with!




I hope you enjoy these quick, easy and inexpensive at-home spa recipes as much as I do.  They're amazing and offer you a cheap getaway right in the privacy of your own home.  If you have daughters, get them involved to.  It's great for Mommy-Daughter time.  Donalyn loves to get involved with making all of these recipes! 

Enjoy!


*Remember...your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

Baskets of Love: "ABC, It's Easy As 1-2-3!"

Next to us Mama's, Teacher's definitely have the next hardest job in America!  Sure, they don't have to do our children's laundry or make their beds, but they teach them things that us Mom's only dream of being able to do with such care and patience.  The least we can do is show our appreciation for all of the hard work and effort that they put into making our children so successful.

Each year, I make my kids' teachers gift baskets.  I always make sure that I add a few things to the basket that I know the teacher will use the following year (red pens, chalk, erasers, pencils, etc), some items that they can use to feel pampered (bath oils, lotions, scrubs), a hand-made booklet of  free summer trip ideas as well as a handmade craft from my child.  Each year, these baskets have become faves and I am always so surprised at how much the teacher adores the gift. 

The kids love getting involved with making the trip book.  We use maps off of the computer and guides to show them how to plan the perfect trip.  Last year, RJ's Teacher was moving to Germany, so we made her a booklet of all sorts of things to do there and she absolutely loved it.  The handmade gift is usually a school picture with a handmade frame.  We've also done teacher boxes, which RJ's still sits pretty on his First Grade Teacher's desk, which is so cool.

Gifting doesn't have to be expensive, it's more important for these baskets to show gratitude and love.  Our baskets each year, cost no more than 10 bucks to make.  I purchase my baskets  and other items throughout the year at garage sales for mere pennies compared to store prices.  The rest of the items, simply cost the amount of the craft and have so much more meaning than store-brought items shoved into a bag.  All year, these incredible men and women teach our children to let their imagination shine, so it's nice for them to see at the end of the year how much their hard work has paid off.

I understand that God made us all differently and not every Mom & Dad is  gonna want to go through the gift making process.  So for all of you parents, here's a link of the Top Ten End Of Year Teacher Gifts.  I hope you enjoy!!!

http://school.familyeducation.com/slideshow/50968.html?page=1&detoured=1

You Tube Laughs

Today really hasn't been a good day for me.  I've got a lot going on and a lot to think about.  So, I decided to share with my readers, my guilty pleasure.  I love the guys "RandomAndHaggard" from YouTube.  No matter how my day is going, these two guys just perk me right up!!!  So, I must share with you my fave...

Feel free to laugh!!










*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!

*Recipe Alert: Take A Trip To Asia Using Your Kitchen!

I absolutely love Stir Fry!  It's the most easiest dinner that you can make.  I could  eat stir fry every night of the week.  It's so filling and healthy for you!!!  If you get the kiddos involved cooking  these dishes they will definitely love them...Gotta get those veggies in somehow!  Here are a few of my faves:

CHICKEN AND ASPARAGUS STIR-FRY


1 lb. boneless chicken breasts
1 egg white, lightly beaten
1 lb. fresh asparagus
3 tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp. cornstarch
1/4 c. dry sherry
2 tsp. sesame oil
2 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 tbsp. minced garlic
1 tbsp. minced fresh ginger
1/4 c. chicken broth
1 red pepper, diced
1/2 c. chopped scallions
1/2 c. dry roasted cashews
3 c. cooked brown or white rice

Cut chicken into 1 inch squares. Combine with beaten egg white and toss lightly. Set aside.
Trim woody bottom ends from asparagus and discard. Cut asparagus into 1 1/2 inch pieces.
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, sherry and sesame oil and stir well.
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Add garlic and ginger and stir-fry 2 minutes. Add asparagus and stir-fry 1 minute longer. Add chicken broth, cover and cook 2 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender. Remove asparagus and wipe pan.
Heat remaining tablespoon vegetable oil. Add chicken and stir-fry until opaque. Add asparagus, red pepper, scallions and cashews. Stir sauce and add to pan. Cook until mixture thickens. Serve over rice. Makes 4 servings.


Beef With Broccoli

3 tablespoons soy sauce

3 tablespoons apple juice
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
3 cloves garlic , minced
Ground pepper
1 1/4 pounds flank steak, cut diagonally across the grain into 1/2-inch-by-3-inch strips
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon canola oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 head broccoli, stems trimmed, peeled, and cut into 1/4-inch rounds, florets separated into bite-size pieces
Coarse salt

In a large, shallow bowl, mix soy sauce, apple juice, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add meat; toss to coat. Let marinate 15 minutes. Transfer meat to a plate; reserve marinade.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over high heat. In two batches, cook meat until lightly browned, turning once, about 2 minutes per batch. Remove meat. Add 1/2 cup water to pan; stir up browned bits with a wooden spoon. Pour into marinade; whisk in cornstarch.
In same skillet, fry broccoli in remaining teaspoon oil over high heat until bright green and crisp, tossing often, 2 minutes. Add 1 cup water; cook until broccoli is tender, 6 to 8 minutes.
Stir marinade, add to pan, and bring to a boil. Cook, stirring, until thickened, 30 seconds. Return meat to pan; toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.


Veggie Fried Rice

1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice

3 cups water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1/3 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
5 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup soy sauce, divided
2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
4 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 (8 ounce) can bamboo shoots, drained
2 carrots, shredded
3/4 cup snow peas
3 green onions, sliced
Place rice and water in a medium saucepan, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20 minutes, or until rice is tender. Transfer to a medium container, and place in the refrigerator 1 hour, or until chilled.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Stir in the onion and garlic, and cook until tender.
In a medium bowl, blend eggs and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Stir into the medium skillet, and cook until no longer runny. Remove onion, garlic, and eggs from heat, and set aside. Chop any large egg chunks into small pieces.
Heat the remaining oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium heat. Stir in the celery, mushrooms, and green pepper. Cook until tender but firm. Stir in rice, bamboo shoots, carrots, and snow peas. Season with remaining soy sauce. Cook and stir 5 minutes, or until rice is heated through. Mix in the onion, garlic, and eggs.
 
 
I hope you enjoy these recipes as much as my family does.  We do an Asian inspired feast about once a week.  This is what we're having for dinner tonight.  I hope you find these recipes delish!!!
 
*Remember...Your life is way more than average, so go out and live it in a BIG way!