Sisters' Stuff

7/20/11 Linky Party

2011-07-20T04:42:00.000-07:00

7/6/11 Linky Party

2011-07-06T05:40:00.000-07:00

Skillet Lasagna #2

2011-07-01T06:25:00.000-07:00

I had some no boil lasagna noodles that I needed to use, so I tried this recipe that I found on the web and we really liked it. It was also a perfect way to use up some of that zucchini that we had in the garden, but you could always leave it out too.

1 1/4 cups cottage cheese ( I drain mine first)
1/4 cup water
1/2 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. dried basil
1/4 tsp. oregano
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 pound ground beef
1 cup zucchini diced
1 (26 oz) jar pasta sauce
4 oven ready(no boil) lasagna noodles

In a medium bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, water, salt, basil, oregano, pepper, Parmesan, and 1/2 cup of the mozzarella. Set the mixture aside.

Brown beef in large skillet set over medium-high heat until cooked, about 5 minutes. Drain fat. Add the zucchini. Stir in 2 cups of the pasta sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low.

Top the mixture with 2 lasagna noodles, set in the center. Break 2 more noodles each into half and fill in the edges. Spread the cheese mixture over the noodles. Pour the rest of the sauce into the skillet and spread evenly, then sprinkle on the remaining cup of mozzarella.

Cover the skillet and simmer the lasagna over medium-low heat until the noodles are tender, about 20 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the lasagna cook for at least 5 minutes. After about 10 minutes most of the liquid was absorbed.

Link Up 6/29/11

2011-06-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Weekly Menu

2011-06-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

Monday: Eat Out

Tuesday: Southwest Egg Rolls, Chips and Salsa

Wednesday: Scalloped Chicken & Potatoes, Green Beans

Thursday: Taco Salads

Friday: Skillet Lasagna, French Bread, Salad

Saturday: Left Overs

Sunday: Pork Chops, Baked Potato, Cool and Creamy

{Whitney}

Cheap Name Decoration

2011-06-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted my sons name over his crib and this is what I came up with. It was VERY inexpensive. I bought four frames from the dollar store. I then spray painted them white. Then I just added in paper from the scrapbook store and cut out letters out of white card stock that I glued onto each paper. I am very happy with how it turned out and the price was just right!

{Whitney}

6/22/11 Linky Party

2011-06-22T06:38:00.000-07:00

Weekly Menu

2011-06-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Monday: Parmesan Chicken, Rice, Green Beans

Tuesday: Mexican Casserole, Chips and Salsa
Wednesday: Stroganoff, Green Beans, Rolls

Thursday: Southwest Egg Rolls, Chips and Salsa

Friday: Baked Potato and Chili

Saturday: Eating Out

Sunday: Roast, Potatoes, Gravy, Rolls, Corn

{Whitney}

Link up 6/15/11

2011-06-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Sweet and Sour Chicken

2011-06-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

When we first got married my husband asked if I could find a recipe for sweet and sour chicken. This is one I tried and its a keeper!

3 pounds chicken breast

1 teaspoon garlic salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 beaten egg

4-6 tablespoons flour or cornstarch

3/4 C. sugar

1/2 C. vinegar

1/2 C. chicken broth

3 1/2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon soy sauce

Sprinkle chicken with garlic salt and pepper. Let stand for 5-10 minutes. Preheat 325 degrees. Dip chicken in beaten egg, and then in four or cornstarch. Place in baking dish. Cover with the sauce: Mix sugar, vinegar, chicken broth, ketchup, soy sauce and 2 TBSP cornstarch. Pour directly over chicken breasts. Bake uncovered at 325 for 1 hour, or until sauce is thick and dark in color.

{Whitney}

6/8/11 Linky Party

2011-06-08T04:36:00.000-07:00

Car Seat Tent

2011-06-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

I love the car seat tent my mom made me! I didn't have one of these with my first child, but I am glad I have one now! She used a tutorial from Sumo's Sweet Stuff! Aren't moms the best!

{Whitney}

Frame for your T.V.

2011-06-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

Full of Great Ideas shows you how to frame your flat screen T.V. I love the look of this! Check it out here!

Link Up 6/1/11

2011-06-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Banana Bread

2011-05-31T06:04:00.000-07:00

I love to make banana bread or banana muffins with those bananas that should have been eaten a few days ago. This is the recipe that my mom always made growing up.
I love to eat it hot or store in the fridge and eat it cold.

1/2 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups smashed bananas (about 3 large)
1/4 tsp. vanilla
2 cups flour
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
2/3 cups chopped walnuts

Cream sugar and shortening; add eggs then bananas. Then add dry ingredients. Add vanilla and nuts. Pout into 2 small greased loaf pans. Bake at 325 degrees for about 1 hour.

Weekly Menu

2011-05-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Monday: Italian Chicken with Rice

Tuesday: Skillet Lasagna

Wednesday: Scalloped Chicken

Thursday: BBQ Chicken, Corn, Baked Potato

Friday: Pizza

Saturday: Left Overs

Sunday: Steak, Onion Soup Potatoes, Green Beans

{Whitney}

CTR Towels

2011-05-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Two of my nieces get baptized this year so I whipped up these CTR towels (Choose the Right). They were really easy and something that will remind the girls of their BIG day. I just wrapped a ribbon around them and added a cute poem. You can find a template and the poem here at Made with Love and Glue!

{Whitney}

Blog Swap with the Dating Divas

2011-05-27T05:24:00.000-07:00

Have you ever really wanted to give your spouse a great gift, but didn't have the budget to do so? Well, me too! That is why I created this awesome coupon book! This little book will tell your spouse just how much you love him/her, as well as keeping things fun and different. There are coupons for staying home or going out, and even a blank one to have your spouse fill out! I decided to make this into an easy step by step process so everyone can follow it. You never know when you might need to whip up a set of "love coupons"!! :)

Before you start, if you want to download my coupons, go HERE. OR...you can create your own by following my steps below.

To create your own...

Step 1- Open up a new document in Microsoft Word

Step 2 - Under the tab “Mailings” - click on the “Labels” button

Step 3 - A pop-up will appear, click on the “Options” button toward the bottom right-hand corner

Step 4 - Another pop-up will appear, select Avery US Letter

Step 5 - There is a box where you can select the product number. Scroll down until you get to number 5392, and select that one

Step 6 - Push OK

Step 7 - It will then bring you back to the 1st pop-up box. In that box there is a tab (toward the bottom left) that says “New Document”. Push that button.

Step 8 - Now you want to go to the top of Word and select the “Page Layout” tab.

Step 9 - Select the “Orientation” tab.

Step 10 - Click on the “Landscape” option.

Step 11 - Now click on the “Margins” button.

Step 12 - Select the “Custom Margins” button at the bottom.

Step 13 - You want to have the top and bottom margins be .5” and the right and left at .3” (a pop-up might appear that says that these settings are outside the normal range. Just click 'ok' - NOT fix!)

Step 14 - I chose to do a cute border around my coupons, but it is totally an OPTION not a MUST. If you want each of the boxes to have a border, select the “Page Borders” button (in the “Page Layout” tab).

Step 15 - Select which border you want and the size. You can also select where the borders will go (just on the outsides, insides, or all 4 sides of the box). I did mine around all 4 sides.

Step 16 - Your coupons are now ready to make cute! I, of course, wanted a cute font so I chose to use the font “Papyrus”. I also wanted a cute picture on the coupons. I found a cute picture of some lips in the clip art section.

Step 17 - I then added a text box on each coupon, where I typed each coupons "value" into. To find a text box go to the “Insert” tab in Word and select the “Text Box” button. You can place the text box anywhere you want to on the coupons. I centered mine.

Step 18 - Now you are ready to type. Make sure you make your first coupon similar to a title page, explaining what this book is. Once you have finished typing your coupons, they are ready to print.

Step 19- I printed mine on 2 different colors of card stock (and alternated them through the whole book). Print the coupons.

Step 20 - Now you get to cut each coupon out. Make sure they are all the same size. (It's easiest to use a paper cutter, but if you don't have one scissors will work just fine too)

Step 21 - To bind, I punched 2 holes on the left side of each coupon (make sure to line all them up properly), then I alternated my colors and stacked them in a pile.

Step 22 - I then cut about 4-6 inches of ribbon, put it through the holes, and tied a knot.

Step 23 - Now you are finished. Have fun!

I am so excited to be able to do this post for Sisters' Stuff! My name is Cami and I am part of The Dating Divas - www.thedatingdivas.com. We are dedicated to strengthening marriages - one date at a time! Below is a cute gift I put together for my hubby, letting him know how special he is to me. Enjoy!

Linky Party 5/25/11

2011-05-25T05:43:00.000-07:00

My New Baby

2011-05-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have been busy with my new little guy!

Gage

April 11, 2011

7lb. 1 oz. 20.5 Inches

{Whitney}

Weekly Menu

2011-05-23T06:02:00.000-07:00

Monday: Burrito Bowl

Tuesday: Chicken pot pie

Wednesday: Wild Rice soup and Corn bread

Thursday: Teriyaki Chicken, rice and broccoli

Friday: Homemade Pizza

Saturday: Eat Out

Sunday: Roast with potatoes and carrots and rolls

Don't Put It Down..........

2011-05-21T05:56:00.000-07:00

I love a good quote to live by and here is another one of my favorites.

Don't put it down, Put it away.

I tell myself this all day long.

Instead of just putting the dish in the sink, put it in the dishwasher.
Instead of putting the toy in the play room, put it in the container.
Instead of setting the mail down on the counter, file or throw it away.
You get the idea.
It really helps me because I often find myself wanting to put things down instead of away and then I just have to put it away later.

{Alish}

Banana Slush Punch

2011-05-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

I really want to try this slush from Or Says She So.. It looks so good!!! Click here for the recipe!

Link Up 5/18/11

2011-05-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Chili's Monterey Chicken

2011-05-17T06:38:00.000-07:00

Bacon, BBQ sauce and cheese. How could you not love that combo?
This is a copy cat recipe from Chili's that my husband and I love.

1 boneless skinless chicken breast
2 teaspoon BBQ sauce
2 slices bacon (should be very crispy)
1/4 cup monterey jack and cheddar blend shredded cheese

Pound chicken breast until it is somewhat flattened, and season with salt and pepper.
Spray Pam in a nonstick skillet, and cook chicken breast until it is done. Transfer to serving plate. Top chicken breast with BBQ sauce, bacon and cheese. Broil chicken breast in the oven. Sprinkle with chopped tomatoes to serve.

*I just add the toppings in the skillet and put the lid on until the cheese is melted instead of on broil in the oven.

{Alish}

Weekly Menu

2011-05-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Monday: Parmesan Chicken, Rice, Green Beans

Creative BABY Gift

2011-05-13T06:27:00.000-07:00

I though that this was a darling baby gift idea.
Made by Amy @ www.positivelysplendid.com

For the tutorial go HERE.

Gender Neutral Room

2011-05-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

I just had my second baby this past month and decided to put my two kids in the same bedroom. Since one is a boy and the other is a girl that meant I needed to do something gender neutral. The walls use to be pink so we painted them green, brown and turquoise. I already had my daughter's bedding so I just found material that matched hers and then my incredible mom whipped me out some baby bedding. I am happy with how their room turned out and glad that my mom talked me into putting them in the same bedroom.

{Whitney}

Linky Party 5/11/11

2011-05-11T05:39:00.000-07:00

Headboard Re-do

2011-05-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to do a spray painting furniture project for sometime now. I decided to try it out on a headboard for my daughter. I REALLY wish I had the before pictures of this!! Just imagine an oak headboard with flowers in the middle. The headboard was in GREAT SHAPE. I bought it off Craigslist. A little spray paint and I am in love! It fits perfect in her room. I read Spray Painting 101 Here!

{Whitney}

Weekly Menu

2011-05-09T01:50:00.000-07:00

Monday: Breakfast for Dinner-French Toast, fruit and milk

Tuesday: Chicken Fajitas

Wednesday: Scalloped chicken and potatoes, Spinach salad with poppy seed dressing

Thursday: Stroganoff

Friday: Pizza

Saturday: Eat Out

Sunday: Roast with potatoes and carrots, green salad, rolls and mint brownies.

Gracie

2011-05-05T03:53:00.000-07:00

I made these blocks a while back to display in my little girl's room.
I love how they turned out, just some paint, scrapbook paper, mod podge, vinyl lettering and embellishments.

Link Up 5/4/11

2011-05-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Card Organization

2011-05-03T05:21:00.000-07:00

I love my card organization system. I use a 13 x 16 container to store all of the cards that I make. I made dividers with card stock and and tabs with my label maker and then just stapled them on. It is the perfect size and works so good for me.

{Alish}

Weekly Menu

2011-05-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Monday: BBQ Chicken Salads

Tuesday: Orange Chicken, Rice, Green Beans

Wednesday: Skillet Lasagna, Green Salad, French Bread

Thursday: Swiss Steak, Baked Potato, Corn

Friday: Grilled Chicken, Rice Pilaf, Green Beans

Saturday: Eat Out/Leftovers

Sunday: Shake n' Bake Chicken, Onion Soup Potatoes, Corn

{Whitney}

The Kit Kat Cake

2011-04-29T07:41:00.000-07:00

I think this is such a fun idea for a party or birthday!

How to make this cake HERE.

Fabric Binky Clip

2011-04-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

I LOVE the beaded binky clips for girls, but for my little guy I thought I needed something a little more masculine and sturdy :) So I googled fabric binky clip tutorials and found this one. It was simple even I could figure it out!! I bought some more fabric to make another one too. I think they are so cute!

Linky Party 4/27/11

2011-04-27T04:28:00.000-07:00

Taggie Crinkle Toy

2011-04-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

I had some left over fabric from a blanket that my mom made me so I decided to make a crinkle taggie toy. Have you heard of those? It is basically soft material your baby can grab onto, chew and it crinkle as they play with it. The best part about making one is that you can use scraps of material and ribbon you have lying around. I used this tutorial. Hope my little guy likes it!

{Whitney}

Weekly Menu

2011-04-25T04:36:00.000-07:00

Monday: Cajan Chicken Pasta, Salad

Tuesday: Sticky Finger Salad

Wednesday: Wendy's Chili

Thursday: Tacos

Friday: Baked Potato With Chili

Saturday: French Dip Sandwiches, chips

Sunday: Twice Baked Potato, Parmesan Chicken, Green Beans

Chicken Quesadillas

2011-04-23T03:43:00.000-07:00

I love these easy and spicy quesadillas.

1 package flour tortillas (burrito size)
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
2 cups finely chopped cooked chicken
1 can (4.5 oz) chopped green chilies
melted butter (optional)
salsa

Top one half of each tortilla with cheese, chicken and green chilies. Fold other half of each tortilla over filling;lightly brush both sides with melted butter.

Heat skillet over medium heat. Cook tortillas 3-4 minutes turning once, until golden brown and hot. Cut into wedges. Serve with salsa.

Jewelry or Bow Holders

2011-04-22T05:00:00.001-07:00

Natalie from Corduroy Dreams made these cute jewelry/bow holders from random thrift store finds! Click here to see how she does it!

Link up 4/20/11

2011-04-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

Secret Service Agents {Activity Days}

2011-04-19T06:16:00.000-07:00

Here is an idea that we did for activity days.

We read and talked about the story of The Good Samaritan.
Then we gave each girl an envelope marked TOP SECRET with their name on it.
Inside was 7 assignments for the next week to secretly serve others. We talked about different ways that the girls could serve each of these people over the next week.

Friday-Dad
Saturday-Mom
Sunday-Savior
Monday-Family
Tuesday-Siblings
Wednesday-Grandparents
Thursday-Friend

I got ideas from here, here and some where else that I can't find anymore.

Weekly Menu

2011-04-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Monday: Mexican Casserole, Chips and Salsa

Tuesday: Wendy's Chili
Wednesday: Hawaiian Haystacks, Green Beans

Thursday: Baked Potato and Chili

Friday: Grilled Chicken, Stuffing and Green Beans

Saturday: Eat out/Left Overs

Sunday: Popcorn shrimp, Rice, Green Beans and Cool and Creamy

{Whitney}

Baby Boy Book

2011-04-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have had this BABY chipboard book forever! I decided I might as well make it for my new baby! I found these papers at a local scrapbook store and fell in love with them! I love the colors! I just left spots where I can journal or put a small picture. Don't you love when you finally use up some of the stuff you have had forever! Here are the pages:

{Whitney}

The Perfect Egg-cessory

2011-04-15T05:05:00.000-07:00

I just love these fabric Easter Eggs from Retro Mama.
They are the perfect accessory for Spring!

Complete tutorial @ Retro Mama

Girl Burp Cloths (Gift Idea)

2011-04-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

I made this gift for a friend that had a baby

girl a few months ago. It was easy and I think it turned out pretty darn cute! It is four burp cloths and then two satin hair clips on top. I got my material for the burp cloths and hair clips at JoAnns.

(sorry my pics are so blurry)

Click here for more info on the burp cloths and here for the satin hair clips!

{Whitney}

Linky Party 4/13/11

2011-04-13T05:26:00.000-07:00

Weekly Menu

2011-04-11T05:26:00.000-07:00

Monday: Whole chicken, rice pilaf and veggie

Tuesday: Stroganoff over noodles and veggie

Wednesday: Chicken nachos

Thursday: Spaghetti and green salad

Friday: Chicken tortilla soup

Saturday: Hearty chicken noodle casserole

Sunday: Pot roast, potatoes, carrots, rolls and THIS dessert!

Easter Subway Art

2011-04-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Check out his cute Subway Art from Landee See, Landee Do. She also offers is as a free printable!

Tulle Hair Accessories

2011-04-07T06:50:00.000-07:00

These tulle clips are so adorable.

I made a few of them for my little girl.

I used THIS tutorial.

Rock Star Tee

2011-04-06T05:00:00.001-07:00

I love this Rock Star Tee from Aly and Ash! She also gives you an awesome template to use. I really need to make one of these for my little man!

Link Up 4/6/11

2011-04-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

Porcupine Meatballs

2011-04-05T00:50:00.000-07:00

These meatballs have been a family favorite for years. I loved them as a kid and now my kids love them too.

1 lb. ground beef
1/2 cup rice
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 Tbsp. dry onion
2 cans of tomato soup
1/2 cup water

Wash rice thoroughly. Combine meat, rice, salt, pepper and onion in a bowl. Then shape into small balls and place in a baking dish. Combine tomato soup and water and pour over the meatballs. Place lid on baking dish and bake in the oven at 350 degrees for about 1 1/2 hours.

* My mom also cooks these is the pressure cooker for about 10 minutes.

Weekly Menu

2011-04-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Monday: Sour Cream Enchiladas, Chips and Salsa

Tuesday: Pizza and Green Salad

Wednesday: Poppy Seed Chicken, Rice, Green Beans

Thursday: Chicken Tacos, Chips and Salsa

Friday: Beef Stroganoff, French Bread, Green Beans

Saturday: Eat Out

Sunday: Baked Potato, Grilled Chicken, Cool and Creamy, Rolls

{Whitney}

Birthday Cards

2011-04-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

I did a post here about making a scalloped border. I did the same technique while making these cards but used a smaller circle punch. I love making and giving homemade cards!

{Whitney}

April Fools' Treat

2011-04-01T07:18:00.000-07:00

Happy April Fool's Day!

Our after school snack today is defiantly going to be candy sushi!
My kiddos will love them. I mean how can you go wrong with rice krispie treats, Swedish fish, fruit rolls ups and gummy worms?

Add chop sticks to eat them with for even more fun!
Totally fun to make, not too difficult, and pretty tasty!

Need more info on how to make these? Go HERE for more instructions!

Linky Party 3/30/11

2011-03-30T06:25:00.000-07:00

Hairspray Gone!

2011-03-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have a problem of getting hair spray on my bathroom walls, doors and everywhere else! I wish I could blame this on someone else, but I know its me who is the problem!! The other day I figured there had to be something that would take it off. I did a google search and found that shaving cream would take it off. I read of a few other things, but shaving cream was the one thing I already had on hand and could try. Well, I found out that it works!!!! It was great! I also read that it could take paint off my walls when using it, but I didn't find that as problem. So put a generous amount on a rag and clean away! Does anyone know of any other cleaning secrets?

Weekly Menu

2011-03-28T07:19:00.000-07:00

Monday: Chicken tortellini soup

Tuesday: Sloppy Joes and pasta salad

Wednesday: Broccoli cheese soup and rolls

Thursday: Teriyaki Chicken, rice and veggies

Friday: Enchiladas

Saturday: Grilled cheese sandwich and soup

Sunday: BBQ steak, baked potato and veggie

Almost Free Colors Book

2011-03-26T06:22:00.000-07:00

I made this colors book for my little guy to start learning his colors. And the best part was it did not cost me a thing. I used Micky Mouse paint samples from the home improvement store and I already had the metal ring and the ribbons were from my scrapbook stash.

{Alish}

Car Seat Tent

2011-03-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Okay so I only have a few weeks left until my little baby boy arrives!! I think I am going to attempt a car seat tent. Thanks to Infarrantly Creative for their tutorial! Check it out! I just need to make a boy version of this!

Link Up 3/23/11

2011-03-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Almond Poppy Seed Cake

2011-03-22T05:45:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this cake.
It is one of my very favorites. I still remember that my friend Jenny brought it to me after I had my second baby. I had to have the recipe.

Almond Poppy Seed Cake

Cake:

1 yellow cake mix

4 eggs

¼ c. poppy seeds

2/3 c. oil

1 small vanilla pudding (instant)

1 T. almond extract

1 c. water

Mix and bake in a bundt cake pan at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes.

Frosting

31/2 c. pd. sugar

1 tsp. almond extract

½ c. margarine

2 T milk

Mix together and pour over cake while still warm so that is kind of melts on.

{Alish}

Weekly Menu

2011-03-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Monday: Sour Cream Enchiladas, Chips and Salsa

Tuesday: Cajun Chicken Pasta, Green Salad, Garlic Bread

Wednesday: Orange Chicken, Rice

Thursday: Taco Soup

Friday: Baked Potato w/Chili

Saturday: Out to Eat

Sunday: Baked Potato, Lemon Herb Chicken, Green Beans, Cool and Creamy

How to make Darling Felt Flowers

2011-03-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

I love these darling felt flowers that I found at the fickle pickle. Click on the link to see how to make these adorable flowers.

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

What does your family do for St. Patrick's day? This year the leprechaun left green treats for my daughter and husband. Basically pure sugar and junk food! Oh well I guess that is what holidays are all about anyway! Have a great day!

{Whitney}

Linky Party 3/16/11

2011-03-16T06:23:00.000-07:00

Fast Breakfast for St. Patty's Day

2011-03-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Tonii Shares a fast and easy St. Patrick's day breakfast. All you need is refrigerator cinnamon rolls, and a heart cookie cutter! Click here for more details!!

Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup

2011-03-15T05:00:00.001-07:00

I finally found a broccoli cheese soup recipe that I love!!!

1 carrot, chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 tbsp. butter

2 tbsp. flour

2 1/2 C. chicken broth

1 c. milk

2 medium potatoes, peeled, and diced small

3 cups chopped up broccoli heads

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheese (I used medium cheese)

1 tbsp. Parmesan cheese

In a large pot melt butter. Add chopped vegetables and saute on low heat until soft, about 5 minutes. Add flour to the pot and stir until smooth. Add chicken broth, milk and potatoes. Set heat to high until it comes to a boil. Then cover and cook on low until potatoes are soft. About 10-15 minutes. Add broccoli, Parmesan cheese and stir well. Cook uncovered until broccoli is cooked. About 5 minutes. Add cheese and and stir it in until melted. Remove from heat. If your soup is way too running you may try taking 1/2 to 1 C. of it out and blending it in a blender for a second and then adding it back into the pot to thicken up your soup. It does change the texture of the soup a bit. So I would only do it if you want a thicker soup.

Enjoy!!!

{Whitney}

Weekly Menu

2011-03-14T05:48:00.000-07:00

Monday: Chili with homemade bread

Tuesday: Hawaiian Chicken over rice with veggie

Wednesday: Left overs

Thursday: Spaghetti and green salad

Friday: Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Saturday: Baked potatoes with toppings

Sunday: Meatballs, mashed potatoes, veggie, rolls an cool and creamy fruit salad

Spray Paint?

2011-03-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

I have been reading a lot about spray painting furniture. All things thrifty has great tips on it!!! I am wanting to spray paint a headboard for my daughter's bedroom. Any other tips or suggestions!! Please comment and let me know! Also, if you know about any other blogs about this topic let me know!

Healthy & Not So Healthy St. Patty's Day Snacks

2011-03-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

These are 2 delicious and fun St. Patrick's Day treat ideas.

I love this fruit rainbow.
Healthy, fun and festive.

And then there are these not so healthy mint brownies!

Get the recipe HERE!

Link Up 3/9/11

2011-03-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

Rainbow Jello Recipe

2011-03-08T06:59:00.000-08:00

This jello is the BEST! Adults and kids rave over it anytime I make it.
Start early because it takes all day!
I make it for lots of different events but thought that it could be fun for St. Patrick's Day too!

The Rainbow fits well in a 9x13 pan.

6 small pkg. jello (lime,lemon,orange,strawberry,cherry,black cherry) made in this order.
1 16 oz sour cream

Step One: Take 1 box of Jello (I started with Lime) and 1 cup of boiling water and mix together until dissolved.

Step Two: Then measure out 1/2 cup of the Jello mixture into another bowl and add 1/3 cup of sour cream and mix together. Pour into the 9x13 pan and set in the refrigerator until set, about 20 minutes. Make sure that your pan is level in the refrigerator.

Step Three: Then mix 3T of Cold Water in with the remaining Jello mixture and pour over the firm sour cream mixture. Let firm. Repeat steps with all other flavors of jello. Is best when stands overnight. Beautiful and delicious. Cut in squares to serve.

Weekly Menu

2011-03-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

Monday: Tacos, Chips and Salsa

Tuesday: Chicken Alfredo, Green Salad, French Bread

Wednesday: Chicken Tortellini Soup, Rolls

Thursday: Meatballs, Baked Potato, Corn

Friday: Baked Potato and Chili

Saturday: Eat Out/ Leftovers

Sunday: Pork Chops, Funeral Potatoes, Green Beans and Orange Cool and Creamy

{Whitney}

Over the Rainbow Cupcakes!

2011-03-04T05:11:00.000-08:00

I am In LoVe with these cupcakes!
I am so making these for my kids this St. Patty's Day this year!

These were made by the fickle pickle!

Zebra Party!

2011-03-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

My little girl turned 2 in January and we had a Zebra party to celebrate! I spent a lot of time making the cake so I thought it deserved its own post!

We had cake, ice cream (cookies and cream), and Zebra Juice (raspberry sherbert and 7 up),then we made homemade oreos with pink frosting for the guests to take home.

I made the banner and then then bought this digital kit for the tags for the party. I printed off the party hat from the digital kit and then just added a little fluff to it!

The cookies that we forgot to send home with some of the guests...don't you hate that!

This was such a fun party to plan! Happy Birthday to my Sweet 2 year old!

{Whitney}

Linky Party 3/2/11

2011-03-02T06:20:00.000-08:00

Zebra Cake

2011-03-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

I made a fondant cake for my husbands brithday last year. It was a simple cake and you can check it out here. I decided to make one for my daughter's Zebra party this year. It is kind of fun and kind of a lot of work! Luckily my mom helped me this year. There are so many tutorials out there to making cakes. I love the look of a fondant cake! I made marshmallow fondant by the following the recipe here. Check back Thursday for the rest of the Zebra Party!!!!

{Whitney}

Weekly Menu

2011-02-28T07:27:00.000-08:00

Monday: Homemade Macaroni & Cheese

Tuesday: Wild rice soup and homemade bread

Wednesday: Swiss Steak, baked potatoes and veggie

Thursday: Chicken and Rice Burritos

Friday: Homemade Pizza

Saturday: Eat Out

Sunday: Roast, mashed potatoes, veggie and rolls

Janey Mac

2011-02-25T07:55:00.000-08:00

Our Janey Mac Winner is:

Jesse, Hailey and Max who said...

Love the square monogram!

Congrats!!!

Easy Grocery Shopping

2011-02-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

Becoming Martha made this awesome printable shopping list!! I love it! How quick and convenient. She also made it available to everyone! Click here to download your own!

Mint Brownies

2011-02-24T06:06:00.000-08:00

These are so wonderful.
I have found different versions of this recipe all over the internet.

MINT BROWNIES

2 c. butter – melted
3/4 c. cocoa
2 1/4 c. sugar
6 eggs – beaten

Combine above ingredients and mix well. Add the following to the mixture:

2 c. flour
1/8 tsp. salt
2 tsp. vanilla

Bake this brownie layer in a Texas sheet cake pan or two 9″ x 13″ pans for this amount. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes (add 8-10 minutes if you use two 9″ x 13″ pans. Cool completely.

Mint frosting

4 c. powdered sugar
1/2 c. butter – melted
5 Tbsp. milk
6 drops food coloring
2 tsp. mint or peppermint extract

Spread frosting on chilled cake and then chill again. Melt a bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips and spread for top layer. Chill.

Link Up 2/23/11

2011-02-23T05:00:00.000-08:00

My Home Scrapbook

2011-02-22T05:48:00.000-08:00

My Home Scrapbook is an 8 x8 scrapbook that documents each of the places we have lived since I have been married. In the past 8 years, I have lived in 6 different homes. I love this scrapbook and know that it will be even more fun to look at as the years pass.

Each 2 page layout includes:

A photo of the home
Dates we lived there
Address
Phone numbers
Cost of home/the amount we paid for rent
Square Footage
Number or bedrooms and bathrooms
What we loved and loathed
Why we lived there
Favorite places
Ward and callings
Friends
Memorable moments

Here is an example of what each two page layout looks like. They are all different, but have the same color scheme.

{Alish}

Weekly Menu

2011-02-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

Monday: Parmesan Chicken, Rice, Green Beans

Don't Miss this Give Away!!

2011-02-18T01:13:00.000-08:00

Janey Mac has the most ADORABLE vinyl!
Check it out HERE!
She is giving away a $25.oo gift certificate to her store.
Hurry and Enter Now!
I am in love with her designs.

How adorable are these?
Don't you want one?
Then Enter!

To enter:
1. become a follower of our blog
2. become a follower of Janey Mac
3. visit her site and tell us what you would like to win

You can enter up to 3 times!

LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL ON EACH ENTRY FOR US TO CONTACT YOU IF YOU WIN!!!!

Pregnancy Journal

2011-02-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

I am pregnant and love filling out this pregnancy journal. I made one for my first pregnancy and made a few of them so that I could have them for future pregnancies. It is so fun looking back on things and comparing my pregnancies. If you aren't into scrapbooking you could also start a private blog or write this info down in a notebook. Click here to go back to the original post that shows all the pictures.

{Whitney}

Link Up 2/16/11

2011-02-16T06:19:00.000-08:00

Great Recipes from Envy My Cooking!

2011-02-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

Hello Readers were Jenny & Karla from Envymycooking
Its a place to find great recipes and to share your own! We always felt like we were cooking the same meal over and over so we decided to start a blog where everyone can post their favorite meal!

Here's our Top 5 Favorite meals so far that we and our readers have really enjoyed!
We hope you'll like them too!

#1 Pizza
( We could eat pizza for every meal)

#2 Dessert pizza
(Ahhh i hate to share this cause its so yummy)

# 3 Green Salsa
(I literally could drink this.. Not even kidding)

#4 Green Chili Chicken Burrito
(love Crock pot meals)

#5 BBQ chicken Salad
(Even my little girl will eat this)

Thanks so much "Sister Stuff" for having us! We love your site and all the fun thing you two provide.

To see more of US please come swing by envymycooking for yummy recipes, great finds and inspirational kitchens!

Or if you would like to post your own recipe, Email us at envy.my.cooking@gmail.com

Weekly Menu

2011-02-14T03:14:00.000-08:00

Monday: Valentine's Day

Here is my inspiration for the day

Breakfast
Heart Shaped Pancakes

Kid's School Lunch Idea
Everything Red, White and pink with a love note!

Dinner
Candle light dinner as a family
Spaghetti, garlic bread, green salad and chocolate covered strawberries for dessert

Tuesday: Italian Chicken over rice with vegetable

Wednesday: Spaghetti, green salad and garlic bread

Thursday: Tacos

Friday: Leftovers

Saturday: Southwest egg rolls and salsa

Sunday: Roast, mashed potatoes, vegetable, rolls and cool and creamy

Valentine's Day Ideas We {LOVE}

2011-02-12T01:41:00.000-08:00

From Paisley and Me Conversation Heart frames HERE!

From In between laundry Heart shaped s'mores HERE!

From I'm a Mom not a Professional Valentine for HIM HERE!

From Simply Crafty cute decoration HERE!

From eighteen25 Candy Dishes HERE!

From What the teacher wants Fun Valentine's Ideas.

"Hogs" and Kisses for my teacher!

"Hogs" and Kisses for you!

{With a heart pig and Hershey's Kisses}

You're just "write" for me!

{with a pencil}

You're a great "catch"!

{with Swedish fish and gummy worms}

You're one in a "melon"!

{with Sour Patch Watermelon}

Cookie Decorating with Glace Icing

2011-02-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

I saw this tutorial from Our Best Bites and I really want to try it out! Just think how cute some heart cookies could be for V-day!

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

2011-02-10T05:35:00.000-08:00

Need a quick and easy Valentines treat?
Look no further! These sweet treats are the best.

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

16 ounces milk chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening
1 pound fresh strawberries with leaves

Directions

1. Insert toothpicks into the tops of the strawberries.

2. In a double boiler, melt the chocolate and shortening, stirring occasionally until smooth. Holding them by the toothpicks, dip the strawberries into the chocolate mixture.

3. Turn the strawberries upside down and insert the toothpick into styrofoam for the chocolate to cool.

I love the recipe I found at allrecipes.com. I melt mine in the microwave instead of the double boiler and the turned our great. I did not have any styrofoam so I just put the dipped strawberries on wax paper and in the refrigerator to cool.

Link Up 2/9/11

2011-02-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

Creative Handmade Valentines for Kids

2011-02-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

My kids have had so much fun making their Valentines.
The boys made robots and loved making them and playing with them.

The message says:
URA* (Your are a Star) From: Cole

My daughter picked to make owls.
They say I will owl-ways be your friend! Lexi

These ideas were inspired from Family Fun.
Owls-HERE
Robots-HERE

Weekly Menu

2011-02-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

Monday: Sour Cream Enchiladas, Chips and Salsa

Tuesday: Cajun Chicken Pasta, Green Salad, Garlic Bread

Wednesday: Orange Chicken, Rice

Thursday: Taco Soup

Friday: Baked Potato w/Chili

Saturday: Out to Eat

Sunday: Baked Potato, Lemon Herb Chicken, Green Beans, Cool and Creamy

{Whitney}

V-day Gift Idea

2011-02-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

Last year I made this for my husband. I loved watching him smile as he read 100 things I love about him! Click here for more info on how I made it!

{Whitney}