Hoosier Roots

Wordless Wednesday

2009-01-21T13:02:00.002-06:00

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Wordless Wednesday: Winter Glow

2009-01-14T07:55:00.002-06:00

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Ice, Ice & More Ice

2008-12-19T12:06:00.009-06:00

For those who have never experienced an ice storm, here is a little glimpse of what we woke up to this morning - here in Northwest Indiana. The photos have not been touched up nor have they been turned black and white - shows just how colorless our world is today. Beautiful from the inside - dangerous on the outside.

For those of you following on Twitter, here is my poor tree situation. Here is the tree after the top snapped off.

Here is the tree after the right side fell - squashing the apple tree and pulling down the power lines (see it laying on the ground?) Fortunately, we still have power, but our inlet broke away from the house cracking the siding.

And see this looming over the garage - we're keeping a VERY close eye on it. We've pulled our cars out of the garage *just* in case.

I almost feel sorta, kinda bad. All summer, Kurt was talking about having this tree cut down. I kept saying no, no, no! I fought to keep it alive because I just couldn't imagine how bare the yard would've been without it. Now - it's a huge threat. Whatta ya gonna do?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-17T07:05:00.003-06:00

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Wordless Wednesday: Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells...

2008-12-10T07:04:00.000-06:00

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Wordless Wednesday: Midwest Christmas

2008-12-03T07:20:00.001-06:00

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Tackle It Tuesday: Happy "People-are-starving-use-up-your-leftovers" Day

2008-12-01T21:20:00.007-06:00

Looks yummy, doesn't it?

Do you have Thanksgiving leftovers that need to be used up? Can't stand the thought of throwing out ALL of that turkey? My answers were yes...and yes. That is why I just HAVE to share this recipe with you.

The "People-are-starving-use-up-your-leftovers" Turkey Pot Pie

*Just to let you know, I always tweak recipes. So, this is my version of another recipe. Of COURSE it's better than the original. :)

1 recipe pastry for a 10" double pie crust - I use the Pillsbury roll out type - you can find a coupon for them here. In my opinion, they are the best flaky crust next to homemade.
4 TB butter (or a little more)
1 small onion, diced
3 (leftover) green onions, sliced
2 (leftover) stalks celery, chopped
1 c. frozen mixed vegetables (maybe a little more, I didn't really measure)
3 TB dried parsley
1 t. dried oregano
salt & pepper to taste (if it matters to you, I use fresh ground sea salt and fresh ground pepper)
2 cubes chicken bouillon
2 c. water
1 med-large (leftover) sweet potato, peeled and diced (the original calls for 3 white potatoes)
2 1/2 - 3 cups cubed (leftover) cooked turkey (you can even add more if you like)
3 TB flour
1/2 c. milk

Preheat oven to 425. Spray 10" pie dish with non-stick spray. Roll out first pie crust in pan. Set aside.

Melt 2 TB butter in a large skillet over medium heat; add the onions, celery, mixed veggies, parsley, oregano and salt & pepper. Cook and stir until the vegetables are soft. Dissolve the bouillon in the [hot] water and add to the vegetable mixture. Bring mixture to a boil. Stir in the potatoes and cook until tender but still firm.

In a medium saucepan (or skillet), melt the remaining 2 TB butter. Stir in the turkey and flour. Add the milk and heat through. Stir the turkey mixture into the vegetable mixture, and cook until thickened (doesn't take long.) Cool slightly, then pour mixture into the unbaked pie shell. Roll out the top crust and place on top of filling. Flute the edges and make a few slits in the top crust to let out the steam.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce oven temp to 350 and continue baking for 20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.

What a tasty dinner! Such a comfort to sit by the light of the Christmas tree, watching the cold snow blowing outside and filling our stomachs with such a warm, slice of home.

Be sure to visit more Tackle It Tuesday Ideas.

Look What We Found...

2008-11-21T07:53:00.006-06:00

...when we woke up this morning! There appears to be about 7 or 8 inches out there and it's still heavily coming down. Here in Northern Indiana, we tend to get a little something in the winter called "Lake Effect Snow." For those of you who don't live in the Great Lakes region, I'll let you goog it. For those of you who do, I know you can sympathize.

This is about what it looks like.

"When it snows, ain't it thrilling,
Though your nose gets a chilling.
We'll frolic and play, the Eskimo way
Walking 'In-di-ana' Wonderland."

Tackle It Tuesday: A Soldier Christmas

2008-11-18T07:00:00.003-06:00

For those of you who are couponin', savin', cvs-game playin' freaks...ever wonder what to do with all of that "stuff?" Would you like to get rid of some of it all the while putting it to VERY good use? Take a visit over to Anysoldier. Beware...as the website says, it really IS addictive. I have been following this site for about a year and a half. Each and every story touches me in some way. I usually end up crying the whole time I'm reading.
Anyway, here is my Tackle It Tuesday.

Does any of that look familiar? Cheapo probably paid very little to nothing for each of those items! I put together two boxes: one for a male and one for a female. They were shipped off yesterday...and I can't WAIT for someone to open them. Here are a few pointers that can make packing a box very easy:

Go to the Anysoldier website - click around to get familiar - go to "What to Send" and then get an address (or 20) from "Where to Send."
The requests are from real soldiers needing real items - so each one will request something different. Though, many just want a little taste of home, regardless of what is in the package.
If you plan to send heavy items, pick up flat rate boxes at the post office. It's $9.80 to send regardless of the weight. Also, make sure to have clear packaging tape to re-enforce the box. Remember, it's going to take a lot of handling before it gets to the right place.
Have magazines laying around everywhere? Toss a few into the box! (no nasty stuff!)
Put anything you can into baggies. The soldiers can re-use the baggies, plus it helps in case something leaks. Also, it keeps the "soap smell" out of other things- especially food.
No home made baked goods.
As you are packing the box, make a list of items that are in it. When you get to the post office, you will have to fill out a customs form, which includes: sender name/address, recipient name/address, detailed list of contents & package value.
Anything with a pop up lid, like shampoo or lotion, tape shut. Elevation changes can pop those right open. Mine used to open every time I would fly back and forth to Colorado.
Include something hand written: a note, a letter, a Christmas card - just some word of thanks. I included a small picture of our family as well. Also, add your email address! The soldier may not have time to send a written thank you, but many have email access. Though, don't expect a thank you - they are doing enough over there as it is. :)

From what I understand, the soldiers get a lot of packages around Christmas, though the program is year 'round. So, don't forget our brave men and women throughout the entire year!

For more Tackle It Tuesdays, visit 5 Minutes for Mom.

Wordless Wednesday: Farm Memories

2008-11-12T06:58:00.003-06:00

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Shadow Shot Sunday

2008-11-10T16:00:00.003-06:00

Ok...so I'm a day late...two days late to the Aussies.
Sorry guys...just totally forgot.
Here's my sorry attempt at a horror book cover shadow shot.

I even thought long and hard about a title...it's called...Steps of Darkness...real imaginative and unique, right?
It'll have to do.
'Til next week...enjoy other Shadow Shots over at Hey Harriet.

Election Party '08

2008-11-04T19:27:00.005-06:00

Any homeschoolers out there having an Election Party?

WE ARE!!!

As the results are coming in, Jacob is coloring his own results poster - and really having a blast with it! He was pretty thrilled to see them doing the same thing on tv at the Rockefeller Ice Rink.

In between stated results, we've been reading about funny presidential firsts - like Harrison being the first in the White House to get shocked, Nixon being the first to visit all 50 states and the first to China, Adams being the first to move into the "President's House", while the plaster walls were still wet!

We also wanted to make some Election Snacks, but since we had dinner late, we decided to just think of funny food names instead. With the given names, we are having a hard time. So far, we've come up with Palin-ini (Panini), Long John McCains (donuts), Palin-cakes (pancakes), Take a Biden of my Cake and for us, teachers, the Barack-a-tini (heh heh). Well, too late for snacks... but maybe not for the Barack-a-tini.

So many fun things to do - what are you doing?
Oh, and don't forget to let your kids vote online HERE!

Cheapo McFrugalpants on Walmart

2008-11-03T20:30:00.004-06:00

Isn't it strange...the more you "coupon", the greedier you get with saving money?
I mean...Cheapo is all about a great deal...but after getting so many free things at CVS and double coupons at Kmart, a regular coupon doesn't seem to be "enough" savings anymore...right Cheapo? *nods with tight lipped smile*

So, Cheapo decided to try her hand at finding good coupon deals at Walmart this week. Tell us McFrug, what did you get for under a dollar?
*thumbs up*

(2)Nestle Cocoa - $1.00 - $.75 printable q = $.25 each
(4) Johnson's Buddies Soaps - $.97 - $2.00 printable q = $.12 PROFIT in all
(2) Travel Sized Wet Ones - $.97 - $.75 printable q = $.27 each
Betty Crocker Potato Pouch - $.78 - $.40 printable q = $.38
Wholesome Goodness Cat Food Cup - $.70 - $.70 mailer q = FREE
(2) Kashi TLC Fruit Bars - $2.97 - $2.00 printable q = $.97 each
(2) Pedigree Canned Dog Food - $.57 - BOGOF printable q = $.57 in all
(2) Kotex Liners - $1.00 - $1.00 mailer & $1.00 sunday q's = FREE
Just Bunches Cereal - $2.82 - $2.00 printable q = $.82
(2) Seapak Shrimp Poppers - $1.32 - $1.00 printable q = $.32 each
Knorr Sides - $1.50 - $.60 printable q = $.90
(2) Ziploc baggies - $1.77 - $.75 printable q = $1.02 each
Green Giant Steamers - $1.23 - $1.00 printable q = $.23
(2) Green Giant Boxed Veggies - $1.42 - $.60 on 2 printable q - $1.12 each

Other Coupons: B2GOF Russel Stover S/F chocolates, $1.00 Cascade Complete, $1.00 YoPlus yogurt, $1.00 32 oz. Yoplait Yogurt, $.75 on 2 GoGurts, $.75 Healthy Franks, $1.00 Farmland Ham Steaks

In all, Cheapo used almost $40 worth of coupons at Walmart this week.
Not too shabby.
Way to go McFrug!
*thumbs up, cheesy smile, CHING*

You Just Never Know...

2008-11-03T14:20:00.008-06:00

Yes. I am a coffee snob. (haha I just typed snoT - Froidian slip)
Coffee makes me happy. My husband teases that I keep Starbucks in business. But, you know, it seems to be the best, affordable, coffee that I can buy. I'm sorry. The other "affordable" coffees just don't compare. And really, it's not *JUST* about the coffee - I like going INTO Starbucks. People are interesting; the atmosphere is relaxing; art shows are great!
Life's little pleasures, and this is one of mine.

Yesterday, me, hubby and son, went out for a little bit of shopping. I wanted to quickly grab another pound of coffee while we were around Starbucks. There were 4 or 5 people in the cafe milling about. My husband says to me, "That's Forest Whitaker!" I was like..Whaaatt? No it's not. (he had his back turned) Sure enough, it was him stopping for a nice cup of joe. My social butterfly husband had no qualms about going up and introducing himself. So, we met and talked for a quick bit about the State of Indiana. He had been out in that area canvasing for Obama. I'm sure it is no surprise that he was a very fine gentleman with kind eyes and genuine smile. He even took the time to write this for our son.

You never know what you might find at Starbucks.
Just another reason why I keep them in business.

**If you need, yet, another good reason to hit Starbucks - they are giving away a free tall coffee to everyone that comes in after voting on Nov. 4th. If you stop at Krispy Kreme and show your "I voted" sticker, they'll give you a free donut. Hey!!! There's a free breakfast! Then, for lunch, head over to Chic-Fil-A and grab a free sandwich while showing your sticker, and follow that up at Ben and Jerry's for a free "voter" scoop of ice cream! What is this country coming to? Bribing our citizens with food when the luxury should just be the right to vote.**

Shadow Shot Sunday: The "Fall" Guy

2008-11-03T06:58:00.005-06:00

Today is November 3rd. Today the high is 75 degrees. We live in Northwest Indiana.

Anyone see anything wrong with these three statements? Oh, I'm not complaining, TRUST.ME. But, it just seems so strange - it's the ever lasting autumn! Which means, for the next few days, we have to work really hard at getting the outdoors winterized because I will surely not be out there in the cold. I don't care of the hose freezes or not.

In honor of our Forever Fall, here's my shadow shot for the week. My son loves when we do "photo shoots" and this happened to be one with a shadow.

Be sure to visit Hey Harriet for other Shadow Shooters...and be sure to comment.
Feedback helps us learn how to be better photographers!

Witch Fingers and Ghosts

2008-10-31T07:23:00.007-05:00

"Oh, the rats and bats and witches
keep the skeletons in stitches
as they sip their spider cider
in the haunt-ed house!"

About seven or eight years ago, right around Halloween, my husband brought home a recipe clipped from a newspaper at his work. He thought it was really cool and wondered if I would make it. So, I took a look. Who would've thought these cookies would become a Halloween tradition in our little family? We just HAVE to make them every year! Everyone is thrilled with them; kids adore them. I now think they have come to be EXPECTED. I'll share the recipe with you and maybe, just maybe you'll have a Halloween tradition on your "hands" as well.

Witch Finger Cookies
(if you are wondering, they are like almond shortbread)

1 c. butter, softened
1 c. powdered sugar
1 egg
1 t. almond extract
1 t. vanilla
2 3/4 c. flour
1 t. baking powder
1 t. salt
a few drops green food coloring
slivered almonds (you can use whole or pistachios too, but I like the "claw" look)
1 tube red decorator gel (or you can color a little corn syrup red)

In bowl, beat together butter, sugar, egg, almond extract, vanilla and green food coloring. Beat in flour, baking powder and salt. Cover (or wrap) and refrigerate 30 minutes.
Roll heaping teaspoons of dough one at a time into finger shape for each cookie. Press almond firmly into one end for nail. Squeeze fingers in center to create knuckle shape (I find that when you roll these between your hands, the knuckle sort of creates itself.)
Using a paring knife, make slashes in several places to form knuckle. Place on lightly greased cookie sheet in 325 degree oven for 20-25 minutes or until pale or lightly golden. (you don't want to brown these so watch carefully)
Let cool for 3 minutes, lift up almond; squeeze red gel onto nail bed and press almond back in place so gel oozes out from underneath. Remove from cookie sheet and let cool. Repeat with remaining dough. Makes a few dozen, depending oh now big you make them.

BOO!! Adding a few of these Nutter Butter Ghosts to your cookie tray really gets everyone in the "spirit." Simple, quick, even the kids can do them!

Nutter Butter Ghosts

Nutter Butter Cookies
Almond Bark, melted
Chocolate chips/mini chocolate chips/sprinkles/mini M&M's
(whatever you have on hand to make a face)

Melt the bark, dip the cookie 3/4 of the way in, place on wax paper. Add face design while bark is still wet. Let dry and eat!

"When the night is dark and scary
when the moon is full
and the creatures are a flying
and the wind goes WOOOOOO,
you better mind your parents and your teachers fond and dear,
and cherish them that loves ya and dry the orphans tears
and help the poor and needy ones that cluster all about
or the goblins will get ya if ya don't watch out!"
- James Whitcomb Riley

The Shopping Adventures of Cheapo McFrugalpants

2008-10-29T21:24:00.006-05:00

Oh my goodness Cheapo! You've found awesome bargains at places other than CVS! Amazing how you can save so much money, week after week. *cheesy smile, nods heads, thumbs up, CHING*
Christmas is coming Cheapo, we sure hope you'll be ready!
Can you tell us what you found today?

Bath & Body Works
Looks like Cheapo has jump started on Christmas gifts!

Bath & Body Price: $34.24
Cheapo's OPP (that's Out Of Pocket to you and me): $12.84
Coupons Used: Free 2 oz. product (mailer)
Free Signature Collection Item when spending $10.00 (internet printable)
Received at register: 3 more coupons to use next time
Total Savings: $21.40
***Tip*** Have the cashier do separate transactions for multiple coupons

KMartHey Everyone...it's double coupon week at Kmart! Check the internet to see if your local store is doubling - they will 2x up to $2.00! Though, poor Cheapo. *frowns, one lonely tear slides down cheek* She went through 1/2 hour of coupon hell trying to get a deal. But, her hard work paid off. *quick smile*

KMart Price: $75.13
Cheapo's OOP: $10.39
Coupons Used: MANY Sunday Q's and Mailers
They will not double internet printables
Also, be sure to print out your $5/$50 Q on the Kmart website!
Total Savings: $64.74
***Tip*** Watch your register VERY carefully!!!

Starbucks and Bed, Bath & Beyond
Cheapo!! Are you a...gulp...coffee snob? *nods exaggeratedly* You mean...gulp...you bought coffee at...um...FULL PRICE?!? *Nods exaggeratedly*

1 lb. Starbucks Anniversary Blend Whole Bean Price: $13.65

Oohh...a nice coffee grinder too? But, not without a coupon I suppose!
Bed, Bath & Beyond Price: $53.49
Cheapo's OOP: $42.79
Coupons Used: $10.00 off $30.00 mailer
Total Savings: $10.70
***Tip*** Never buy full price at BB&B - they always offer Q's

Are you all ready for the big savings of the day???

JC Penny
19 items here folks! In the boy's section - all green tag items were $.97 - buy one get the 2nd half off! That's $.72 PER ITEM!!!

JC Penny Price: $462.14
Cheapo's OOP: $4.30
Coupons Used: $10.00 off of $10.00 mailer
Total Savings: $457.84

Retail Total of the Day: $638.65
Cheapo's Total of the Day: $83.97
Total Savings...*drum rolls fingers*: $554.68

Stay tuned for more Shopping Adventures.

When the Frost is on the Punkin...

2008-10-29T07:15:00.002-05:00

In honor of yesterday's first snow of the year, it seemed appropriate to post this poem by James Whitcomb Riley. When I was little, my grandmother would read this and "Little Orphan Annie" to us right at this time of year. She would pick the grandkids up for school every morning. We would sit in her little green and white pinto (or silver pacer, whatever at the time) and wait for the day's surprise. Sometimes she would hand out stickers; sometimes she would sing songs. In the fall, it was poetry - and we liked it.

HEN the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock,
And you hear the kyouck and gobble of the struttin' turkey-cock,
And the clackin' of the guineys, and the cluckin' of the hens,
And the rooster's hallylooyer as he tiptoes on the fence;
O, it's then's the times a feller is a-feelin' at his best,
With the risin' sun to greet him from a night of peaceful rest,
As he leaves the house, bareheaded, and goes out to feed the stock,
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock.

They's something kindo' harty-like about the atmusfere
When the heat of summer's over and the coolin' fall is here--
Of course we miss the flowers, and the blossums on the trees,
And the mumble of the hummin'-birds and buzzin' of the bees;
But the air's so appetizin'; and the landscape through the haze
Of a crisp and sunny morning of the airly autumn days
Is a pictur' that no painter has the colorin' to mock--
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock.

The husky, rusty russel of the tossels of the corn,
And the raspin' of the tangled leaves, as golden as the morn;
The stubble in the furries--kindo' lonesome-like, but still
A-preachin' sermuns to us of the barns they growed to fill;
The strawstack in the medder, and the reaper in the shed;
The hosses in theyr stalls below--the clover over-head!--
O, it sets my hart a-clickin' like the tickin' of a clock,
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock!

Then your apples all is gethered, and the ones a feller keeps
Is poured around the celler-floor in red and yeller heaps;
And your cider-makin' 's over, and your wimmern-folks is through
With their mince and apple-butter, and theyr souse and saussage, too! ...
I don't know how to tell it--but ef sich a thing could be
As the Angels wantin' boardin', and they'd call around on me--
I'd want to 'commodate 'em--all the whole-indurin' flock--
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock!: -James Whitcomb Riley, 1916

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-29T06:27:00.004-05:00

More Wordless Wednesday here and here.

Tackle It Tuesday: Where's That Recipe?

2008-10-28T20:42:00.005-05:00

Okay. So I'm an OVER organizer.

This has been driving me nuts for a LONG time (not the over organizing, but the project.)

For a few years now, I have developed this "pile/card box/mess" of recipes that people have given me or I've printed out. I kept telling myself that someday...just someday, I'll have them all nice and neat and organized so that I can find what I need, when I want it. In going through them, I have found that I have printed several of them MORE than once, because I thought they were "lost." Well...they were...sort of. Anyway, today is someday. I've decided to type in and print out all of these orphan recipes and put them in that nice little binder.

This is the pile before...

And here is after. It's still a work in progress, but it's really going faster than I had originally thought. It's nothing fancy like all of you scrapbookers might do - but it's organized and will look much nicer on the shelf than a pile of a zillion papers.

Sometimes I take pictures of the finished recipes, so I plan to put the photos in there as well. There's even a tab for my son and husband's recipes! You know, it looks real nice and neat and all - but it really has no character. In talking with my aunt today - we decided that it's nice to have some sort of central location for all of the recipes, but you just lose something in the whole process. You no longer have the recipe reference of "the one on the yellow paper" or "the recipe with cake batter on it." Some of these little cards I've had for a LONG time and have been well enjoyed many, many times.

I think I'm having card attachment issues.

So, in the end, I'll be pleased when this project is done...

but I think on the back of each page, I'll attach the original little handwritten cards...you know...the ones with the grease stains?

What else are people tackling today at 5 Minutes For Mom?

Shadow Shot Sunday

2008-10-26T07:58:00.002-05:00

"OOhhhhh....don't eat ME
big, bad, scary, ole' Halloween putty tat!"

Suki's alter ego, Zeus, is really only wanting a few pieces of kibble in his bowl.

Visit all of the Shadow Shots at Hey Harriet!

Skywatch Friday

2008-10-24T07:08:00.003-05:00

As the Autumn leaves change, they surround us with the warm colors of the palette. It seems only necessary to include a fall picture for Skywatch this week - to give thanks and honor to the beauty that surrounds us. If you haven't had a minute to stop and really appreciate the colors this fall, do so today. Like life, everything changes so quickly, and then it's gone.

Enjoy more Big Skies!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-22T07:16:00.000-05:00

More Wordless Wednesday here or here.

Tackle It Tuesday: What To Do With All Of These Apples?!?

2008-10-20T17:46:00.008-05:00

Apple Butter. Gotta love the stuff. For me, the taste on a piece of light toast slathered first in real butter, then in apple butter, brings back a ton of childhood memories. As a child (and probably as an adult too, but I know better now), I could've eaten an entire loaf of bread, stick of butter and jar of apple butter...in one sitting. What a treat - one of my favorites. I didn't get it much, but when I did, it was like a little taste of heaven.

This past week, we took a trip to a local orchard for some raspberry and apple picking. After coming home with a half of a bushel of Stayman apples, I decided that we needed to enjoy them all winter long. What better way than this!

If you have some apples that need to be used up, go ahead and give it a try! It's really easy with barely any effort - especially with the crock pot method. I'll share my recipe with you!

Crock Pot Apple Butter

10 large apples - peeled, cored and sliced (chipped) - or enough sliced up apples to fill and mound a crock pot while still fitting the lid on top
4 c. sugar
1 1/2 c. apple juice (I used cider)
2 t. cinnamon
1 t. ground clove
1 t. ground allspice
pinch of salt if you want

Mix everything but the apples in the crock pot. Add apples and mix to coat. Cook on low for 8-10 hours. Good to prepare before bed and let cook overnight. (I started mine on high to get going and then turned it down to low- it cooked for more like 12 hours - 6pm to 6am.) Remove crock pot lid and stir (apples will start falling apart - give a stir every now and then to help break them up.) Continue cooking, uncovered, for 4-5 more hours (depending on how much liquid is left) until most of the liquid is gone and butter has cooked down quite a bit. It will be very dark, thick and goopy. (mmmm) Pour into jars and refrigerate unless canning properly. My first batch made about 6 8oz. jars. My second batch made 7.

If canning, sterilize jars and seals. Pour hot apple butter into hot jars. Place on the seal & ring. Boil in a hot water bath for 20 minutes. (I put a metal steamer in the bottom of a large dutch kettle and set the jars on that - works fine.) Make sure the jars are covered with at least 1" of water over their tops. Remove. Let cool until seal pops in.

Hope you enjoy your little taste of fall.

Visit more Tackle It Tuesdays on 5 Minutes for Mom.

Shadow Shot Sunday

2008-10-19T18:59:00.004-05:00

"It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!"

What a beautiful day to spend at the pumpkin patch - the intense sunshine battled the autumn chill though the briskness still allowed for comfy jeans and sweatshirts. While waiting for the horse drawn wagon, the kids played in the "hay maze" - jumping and tumbling enough to fill their hair with stray strands. Wonderful pumpkins in the patch this year! No one could decide which one they wanted as there was always one that looked more enticing in the next row. Four pumpkins and two butternut squashes later, we had our share of fall fun and headed home.
'Til next year Great Pumpkin...

Visit more Shadow Shot Sundays!

ARTuality: A FANTASTIC New Festival

2008-10-17T10:00:00.001-05:00

"Artuality is a festival for artists and art lovers to share the place of art in their lives. Every month we'll focus on a different art form."

Art.

Hold on a second, I want to check my birth certificate real quick to see if that is my
middle name.
Nope - but it should be. Then again, it rhymes with f-art and people would make fun of me and blah, blah, blah - you know how that goes.

Anyway, growing up, I was *that* child - you know, the one who just HAD to have a linoleum cutting set in the 2nd grade so she could make her own Christmas cards.

*That* child who would choose to spend an entire weekend with a bottle of glue, scissors and a book of construction paper (well, with maybe some cotton balls and glitter thrown in.)

*That* child who would turn anything into an artistic endeavor -mostly thanks to my mother. Both of my parents are artfully skilled, though neither of them really ever had the time or money to purse their talents. Though, occasionally they would find ways to let those talents slip out. My father can draw, build, engineer anything you can possibly think of. He has done everything from building his house to rebuilding cars (from the frame up) to woodworking to once rewiring a friend's broke down car (on the interstate) with the cord cut from a hairdryer. It lasted just long enough to get them to a garage.

My mother, on the other hand, mainly encouraged art through me. She pushed the the art of mud pie baking - always ready to lend hard marshmallows, dry bread cubes or stale cereal for the benefit of my creations. She encouraged collages, mosaics, tracings. Whenever I came to her with the old "I'm bored" complaint, I pretty much knew what I was going to get: a piece of paper, colored pencils and a handful of cookie cutters & kitchen utensils to overlap and trace. Though, every now and then, she would get into a groove of making dolls or sculpting faces into the snow creatures we would make out side. She once sculpted my dad's face into a snowman - as it melted, it sort of morphed into Abe Lincoln. My dad then decided to karate kick the head off - but that's a WHOLE 'nother story.

So here I am as *that* adult - wishing I had more time to learn about and pursue art. When my son was much younger - waayy before homeschooling or community involvement, I was able to accomplish a few paintings. Here was my 4th oil, first floral and one of my favorites:

Though it's been a few years ago, this is the last [watercolor] painting that I have done. It was "supposed" to be in the style of Paul Gauguin. Here's my end result:

Gauguin? umm...not too sure about that. None the less, it's framed and hanging in my stairwell and I love looking at it. Just the reminder of the times when my son was little and full of wonder is well worth the effort of painting it.

I'm glad the topic of painting is this month's theme to Heather Goodman's ARTuality Festival. It just so happens that my mom recently gave me a painting she picked up at a yard sale. She only paid $3 or $4 dollars for it and was going to resell it for not much more than pennies. When I offered to buy it from her, she generously gave it to me (as mothers tend to do.)

The artist is signed as "SARU" though I can't seem to find anything about him. Fortunately, the back of the painting is loaded with information including a little penciled in price of $65-, appearing to be written in from an antique shop.

In doing an internet search on the W.T. Burger Co., I found that if I send them $25, they will send me some information and an appraisal on this piece. Does anyone know about this? Is it worth the $25? I believe it would be worth $25 to satisfy my curiosity about this work. If anyone has any information or is familiar with this company, please let me know. I was surprised the company was even still around.

Until I find out more, I decided to hang the art in my living room, where I enjoy it every time I walk by. I just.love.art. The idea that someone had to think of this painting...the time that they spent creating it...one on one with the canvas and *I* now have it...*I* am now involved in it. It's an intimate affair between an artist, his tools and the slate. Somehow, by appreciating someone else's art - I feel as if I know some little secret - that I know about the affair...more than anyone else.

*That* child has now grown into * that* adult encouraging HER child to become...*that* child.

Van Gogh's Sunflowers by Jacob at age 7

You know the old Boy Scout saying...

2008-10-16T07:54:00.003-05:00

"Be Prepared?"

As of lately, we have been talking to our 9 year old son about "being prepared" for: school, bed, the morning shuffle...

We asked; we received; this is what we got.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-15T06:02:00.004-05:00

Be sure to enter your photo in Wordless Wednesday
here or here!

Shadow Shot Sunday: Here Lies Rosemary

2008-10-12T20:14:00.009-05:00

Here is what is left of my sweet Rosemary...Basil followed in her footsteps and the fortune of Chives and Parsley are soon to be the same. All freezer bound to spend the duration of their existence, through the Midwestern Winter.

I'm rather sad to see that summer is basically gone, especially knowing what is to come. Thankfully, I will have these little herbal reminders of the days that have gone by...and the sunny days that will come again.

Skywatch Friday

2008-10-10T07:44:00.004-05:00

As of lately here in NW Indiana, the sky hasn't given us much splendor. It has either been very clear or very overcast - with no grey area in between. For a few weeks, I have been trying my best to find SOMEthing to enter in Skywatch Friday but I just wasn't getting the right chance.

About a week ago, I was walking on (dying on) the treadmill in my basement. I happened to look up at the window and noticed the "funny" shade of light coming through. At that point, I knew I needed to get outside - I might have a chance. So, within about 5 minutes, the sky went from the nice blue to ON FIRE! Pleased with my capture, I reluctantly went back to finish my workout. Yeah...whoopee...what fun.

Check out other BIG SKIES!!

Wordless Wednesday: "Strike" A Pose

2008-10-01T07:13:00.002-05:00

Take time to visit more Wordless Wednesday!

Shadow Shot Sunday: #8 For Me

2008-09-27T20:13:00.003-05:00

Couldn't help but try and catch a COLORED shadow this week! Never mind the dust...it...um...adds to the ambiance...yeah, that's it. :)

Check out other Shadow Shots!

Skywatch Friday

2008-09-25T20:42:00.004-05:00

~Another beautiful sunset over Acapulco Bay~

Take a look at other big skies and be sure to include your own!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-24T14:36:00.002-05:00

Make sure to visit more Wordless Wednesdays!

Can You Spare An Extra Hour?

2008-09-24T14:32:00.002-05:00

Do you ever get that feeling...you know...the one where there just isn't enough hours in a day to accomplish everything that needs to be accomplished? *sigh* As of lately, that's me. You name it, I'm behind on it. And...no matter how hard I try, how good my intentions are and how much time I put into it - I never. get. caught.up. The last thing I should be worrying about is this blog - but I'm behind on it too.

Anyway, I will be back soon - I hope?

Shadow Shot Sunday: #7 For Me

2008-09-14T09:45:00.003-05:00

Aahhhh...Chicago...endless, ENDLESS photo opportunities.

Let's see YOUR Shadow Shot Sundays!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-10T07:17:00.003-05:00

More Wordless Wednesday
and more here

Tackle It Tuesday: Leftovers Anyone?

2008-09-09T20:15:00.004-05:00

I love Tackle It Tuesdays...but I must say that I'm having a HECK of a time trying to find things to tackle...or should I say, find tackles that I have TIME to finish! First I thought, the basement? Nahhh. The windows? Nahhh. Hmm..what's for dinner? Low and behold, I opened the fridge and the tackle stood before me.

Before

After

And, if you are wondering what WAS for dinner - it was Cincinnati Chili over steamed spaghetti squash topped with cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Gosh, just typing that almost made me hungry again.

Do you have a tackle to share? Let it be known on 5 Minutes for Mom!

The Shopping Adventures of Cheapo McFrugalpants

2008-09-09T07:57:00.005-05:00

"Hello, My name is Cheapo and I'm addicted to free."

It looks like Cheapo might have taken last week off. But, the deals are back and so is she! I wonder what she found at CVS this week?

First Trip

How did you get all of that McFrug?

Revlon Nail Polish - $3.99 - $2.00 CRT Q - $3.00 ECB

Aussie Hair Treatment - $2.49 - $2.00 on 2 Sunday Q - $1.00 ECB

Aussie Shampoo - $2.49 - same Q - $1.00 ECB

L'Oreal Revitalift Cloths - $5.99 - $5.99 ECB

Sugar Free Life Savers - $2.19 (bogof)

Gummy Savers - FREE (these aren't pictured because Cheapo's munchie offspring decided to eat them on the drive home)

Cheapo's out of pocket cash (OOPC) with tax was only $1.38 - she gave the Q's, the printable CVS $2/$10 Q and $11.99 in prior ECB's. In return, $10.99 printed back out to use next time!

Second Trip this week

From the looks of these deals, it would be a real problem if Cheapo smelled like BO this week *canned laughter*

Renuzit Tri Scents - $7.99 - $3.00 Printable Q - $3.00 ECB

Soft & Dry - $2.89 - $.75 Sunday Q - $2.00 ECB

Right Guard Pro - $6.99 - $1.00 Sunday Q - $5.00 ECB

Lady Speed Stick - $3.29 - $1.00 CRT Q - BOGOF

Irish Spring Speed Stick - FREE - $1.00 CRT Q

What did this underarm value package total? With tax, $1.85 cash - gave Q's, Printable CVS $2/$10 Q and $10.99 prior ECB's...and got $10 ECB's back!

Stay tuned for more "Shopping Adventures."

Shadow Shot Sunday: #6 For Me

2008-09-06T09:57:00.003-05:00

Early one morning, I found this shadow lurking behind my coffee station. When you find sunlight like this peeking in, you just know it's going to be a beautiful day. Now...where's my favorite coffee mug?

Play along with Shadow Shots and don't forget to comment!

Skywatch Friday

2008-09-04T17:20:00.004-05:00

I have been having a rather hard time finding a good "sky" picture as of lately; it has been all sun, no clouds and now strictly rain. So, I've searched the "way back machine" and found this one. By the looks of the land, we were somewhere over northern Mexico. I love this picture as you can see the different layers of the atmosphere as well as the curvature of the Earth. We were WAY up there.

Wondering what other big skies are out there?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-03T06:04:00.004-05:00

Do you have a photo to share that doesn't need words?
Play along!

Shadow Shot Sunday: #5 For Me

2008-08-30T17:33:00.002-05:00

Everything in this shot appears to be in shadow, except for the glowing daffodils.

Let's see YOUR shadow shots!

Skywatch Friday

2008-08-29T07:11:00.002-05:00

For some reason, we tend to catch some beautiful skies over our church across the street. It is interesting how the presence of the cross tends to add a whole new aspect to the photo.

Want to see other big skies in the big world?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-08-27T06:49:00.003-05:00

Be sure to visit more Wordless Wednesday Photography.

The Shopping Adventures of Cheapo McFrugalpants

2008-08-25T21:05:00.012-05:00

"Hello, My name is Cheapo and I'm addicted to free."

Oh boy! Look at all of those great CVS deals this week! Cheapo is almost overwhelmed with saving money. Let's see...how many trips can she make THIS week?
Tell us McFrug!

Monday's Trip

Kotex Pantyliners - $1.49 - $1.00 Printable Q - $1.49 ECB
Ivory Soap 3 pk - $1.39 (using as a filler)
2 Zipfizz energy powders - $11.98 - $11.98 ECB
CVS hand soap - $.79 - $2.00 Printable CVS Skincare Q
(Don't look now kids, but the hand soap is on sale for only $.79 this week!)

Cheapo paid with Q's, 2 prior $5.00 ECB's and a printable $2/$10 CVS Q - after all of that, she only had to fork over $.77 cash! Now that's a deal! *ching - gives thumbs up sign*

Bonus! Bonus! She received $13.47 in ECB's back! Woo hoo!

Tuesday's Trip

CVS Handsoap - $.79 - $2.00 Printable CVS Q
Ivory 3 pk. - $1.39 - .$25 Sunday Q - $1.00 ECB
Sobe Lifewater - $1.00
Welch's Grape Juice - $1.49
Playtex Sport - $4.99 - $3.00 ECB

With Q's, CVS Printable $2/$10 and $5.00 worth of prior ECB's, she only paid $.41 cash...WITH $4.00 ECB's back.
What a deal Cheapo...what a deal.

Cheapo has been disappointed this week that her CVS doesn't carry some of the sale items advertised, but she made do. The Sobe and the Welch's are being used to "set up" another trip for ECB's.

Wednesday - the quickest trip EVER!

Welch's Grape Juice - $1.49 - $1.00 ECB (on 2)
2 40 ct. O.B. - $9.00 - 2 $1.50 Printable Q's - $5.00 ECB

After giving up Q's, printable CVS $2/10 Q and $5.00 prior ECB's, it only cost cheapo $.87 with $6.00 ECB back! She'll be doing this same transaction again tomorrow.

Double Trip on Thursday
(Cheapo is setting a record on how many times she can show her face in a CVS this week.)

Welch's Grape/Peach Juice - $1.49
2 40 ct. O.B. - $9.00 - 2 $1.50 Printable Q's - $5.00 ECB
CVS Hand Soap - $.79 - $2.00 Printable CVS Q
2 pks. Extra Gum - $2.38 - BOGOF Sunday Coupon

Cheapo paid $.69 cash after giving Q's, $2.00/$10 Printable CVS Q and $5.00 prior ECB - she got a $5.00 ECB back!

Hmm...ANOTHER Store on Thursday
(ya know...just by driving along)

3 Welch's juices - $4.47 - $2.00 ECB
Tampax Pearl - $4.00 - $1.00 Mailer Q - $2.00 ECB (on 2)
Tampax Compak Pearl - $4.00 - $1.50 Mailer Q
CVS Hand Soap - $.79 - $2.00 Printable CVS Q

Cash this time? Only $.76! Cheapo gave the Q's, the $2/$10 Printable Q and $6.00 prior ECB's and received $4.00 ECB back.

Be sure to check back to see what else Cheapo may find in her "Shopping Adventures."

Shadow Shot Sunday: #4 For Me

2008-08-22T08:54:00.003-05:00

"A Garden Plays Music For Those Who Listen."

Early morning sunlight makes the BEST shadow shots EVER!
Try it sometime!

Where are YOUR shadows hiding? Show us!

Skywatch Friday

2008-08-21T15:43:00.003-05:00

Clouds are rare in Acapulco, Mexico - and normally unwanted while you are there. Though, without the clouds this particular evening, we would not have had such a spectacular sunset. This was taken in February 2008 overlooking Acapulco Bay.

What's happening in other big skies?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-08-20T06:50:00.003-05:00

Make sure to visit other participants of Wordless Wednesday, or take a peak at my
Wednesdays gone by.

Tackle It Tuesday: The Seinfeld Cereal Cabinet

2008-08-19T21:21:00.008-05:00

I had a very difficult time trying to find something to do for Tackle It Tuesday this week. I mean...not that there aren't a gazillion things that need to be done around here...but just couldn't find something that I had TIME to tackle.

Lo and behold - *in loud, echo-ey, deep voice*- The Seinfeld Cereal Cabinet. No family of three should ever, EVer, EVER have that much cereal. Buuutttt...when you get them for little to nothing or free - hey, why not. This wasn't some huge project, but something I've been meaning to do for a while. And, while I was at it, I cleaned out the corner turn-a-bout as well. :)

Here ya go! - Before

After

Before

After

Wow! Look at all that room back up in there! Amazing how much stuff can hide out in 9 sq. ft. of space.

You have something in need of tackling?? Get to it!!

The Shopping Adventures of Cheapo McFrugalpants

2008-08-19T21:01:00.009-05:00

"Hello, My name is Cheapo and I'm addicted to free."

Cheapo, Cheapo, what's the big deal-i-o?!? Cheapo has only just begun at CVS this week.
McFrug, can you share with us?

1 Gallon Dean's 2% Milk - $2.99 - $.55 Sunday Q
CVS Handsoap - $1.69 - $2.00 CVS printable Q (Cheapo only got another one of these because 13 bottles is not quite enough - actually, it's just a money maker)
Schick Quattro Razor - $7.99 - $5.00 ECB back
2 Crest Toothpastes - $3.98 - $1.00 off 2 Sunday Q - $2.00 ECB back

After paying with a $2/$10 CVS printable Q and a $10 prior ECB - Cheapo only paid $1.10 cash AND she received $7.00 in ECB's in return!

McFrugalpants made yet aNOTHer trip to CVS this week. I wonder what she found now?

Revlon Lash Fantasy Mascara - $6.49 - $5.00 ECB back
CVS handsoap - $1.69 - $2.00 printable CVS q (link above)
Sunsilk Conditioner - $4.29 - $1.50 Sunday Q
Sunsilk Hair treatment - BOGOF - $1.50 Sunday Q
Puffs Tissue - $.88 - $.25 Sunday Q

After paying with a $5.00 prior ECB, $2/$10 CVS Printable Q (link above) & Q's - Cheapo only pulled $1.40 out of her pocket to pay with! Once again, she received a $5.00 ECB back.

Not only did Cheapo save a bundle at CVS, she also saved $21.05 with Q's at her local grocery store (it helps to shop on triple q day.)

Stay tuned for the latest "Shopping Adventures."

Shadow Shot Sunday: #3 For Me

2008-08-17T20:32:00.004-05:00

I'm not sure what is scarier.

Waking up to this:

Or this:

We apparently have a nice leak in our Spanish tile roof. In a few more years, our house will turn 100 years old - and we really weren't ready to remodel our bedroom yet (despite trying to live with the ugly wall paint.)

Guess what number 1,542 is on the honey-do list?

Don't forget to visit some other great shadow shots or take a look at the rest of mine.

Skywatch Friday

2008-08-14T19:45:00.005-05:00

Instead of a shot OF the sky, how about a shot FROM the sky. This was taken back in February while flying over the mountains and volcanoes in Mexico.

Excuse me for a moment while I reminisce.

Ok - Want to see what other people are watching?
Check it out!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-08-13T13:24:00.003-05:00

Participate or view other Wordless Wednesdays here.

Tackle It Tuesday: Saving The World...and a buck or two

2008-08-13T07:01:00.002-05:00

Let me begin by saying, "The Lord did not bless me with skills for sewing."
That being said...here is my Tackle It Tuesday project.

One day, while channeling through blogland, I happened across a site that mentioned making Homemade Fabric Sandwich Wraps. I thought, "hmmm...what a great idea! And - how convenient...I'm out of waxed bags AND baggies right now! These look easy enough. Gosh, I'll even be able to make...like...5 or 6 of them. Cool!"

I made one...and it took me all evening.

Don't let that discourage you. I just...well...I don't know. I guess I just don't sew enough to know how to do things quickly. My thread kept breaking, I couldn't get the pattern quite straight, the thread was bunching up, I don't know how to "close" something properly after turning right side out. *sigh*

Regardless of all that - I'm very pleased with the way it finished and couldn't help but smile while turning it right-side-out. Not too shabby for my first go at it.

I may try another one tonight.

I followed the directions on the site mentioned above, but here are a few tips from me:

Make your pattern on the white side of Christmas wrapping paper; it's big enough and easy to pin through.

Make sure you measure and cut rather precisely. I should have cut both pieces at the same time - as you can see, one is larger than the other. Be sure to line the corners up nice and straight. Mine is 15 x 15".

I used Ripstop for the food surface on the inside and a vintage fabric on the outside. The Ripstop can be wiped down easily as it is water repellent and easy to sew. It was $6.99 a yard at Joanne Fabrics - but be sure to print your 40% Q from the internet first - made it cheaper.

When you iron your pieces after cutting, remember: when the ripstop says cool iron...it means cool iron. Lesson learned.

When you insert the velcro, make sure the fastening part is "up" (away from the fabric print). You'll see when you get that far.

I'm not sure how my husband is going to feel when he opens his lunch to a sandwich wrapped in rooster cloth, but I'm anxious for the reaction. I think he'll appreciate helping to save the world, but would rather be doing it with White Sox fabric.

Daddy-Time v/s Mommy -Time

2008-08-12T15:52:00.009-05:00

We all need to have time with our children - I'm talking well spent, quality time. On the contrary, we need time to ourselves, BY ourselves too! Last night, was one of those times for all of us.

DADDY-TIME: On Friday, my husband got a phone call from a dear friend, telling him he was given four tickets to last night's White Sox v/s Red Sox Baseball game at Cellular Field in Chicago - two rows up from the White Sox dug out - did he and Jacob want to go? 'Nuff said!

My loving husband, the caring person he is, didn't want me to feel bad about staying home alone. (are you kidding? I relish these moments!) I told him to go...enjoy...have a GREAT time with your son - add to that "museum of memories" that we consistently try to create for him. As a devoted (and excited!) father, he left work early, got a backpack packed, grabbed Jacob and hit the skyway! Now, since Friday, Jacob has only known that he and daddy were going to do something special together - at this point in the car, he still didn't know for sure where he was headed.

Surprise!! Talk about one excited little boy! His first major league baseball game (that he can remember) AND first White Sox Game! Well, they ended up getting there a bit early, but that just added to the excitement. Good thing they WERE there early because as they were waiting, a limo pulled up and out walked Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian), actor from Return of the Jedi (amongst many other flicks). He was there to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Kurt & Jacob walked right up to him and got to shake his hand! What an added surprise that was - oohh, just wait...it keeps getting better.

They finally got into the park, ate a hot dog "as big as your head," (according to Jacob) and there was Nick Swisher signing autographs - and holding babies and all of the other fun things great baseball players do. Anyway, he signs Jacob's baseball glove (now we have to buy another one before next season) and Kurt's ticket stub! Pretty cool for Sox Fans right? Well now, batting practice starts to wrap up - as Jermaine Dye jogs in, Kurt nods to him, he nods back and the next thing they knew - Dye tossed both of his batting gloves up to Jacob - complete with pine tar and sweat! Ahhh, can't beat the smell of schweatty leather, now can ya?

Not enough for you? Can't stand the excitement? Jacob ALSO got chosen to run around on top of the Sox dug out and throw t-shirts out to the crowd - along with getting to bring one home for himself!

After the game, just to wrap things up, Jim Thome tossed a brand new, major league practice baseball up to Jacob. For having free tickets, he sure came home with a lot of stuff - and more precious than that, a lot of great, Daddy-time memories.

MOMMY-TIME: "Wow! It's only two in the afternoon and I'm going to be by my-SELF until midnight tonight - what should I do? I don't know what to do! I don't even have to cook dinner! Hmm..I know. I think I'll drive BY MYSELF over to JC Penny - WITH the windows down
...and the radio turned up really loud."

MOMMY-TIME WRAPPED UP IN ONE SENTENCE: Got a $49 purse for $3.19 and a $7.00 Gyro plate, complete with fries and a pickle.

Good Times.

The Shopping Adventures of Cheapo McFrugalpants

2008-08-10T19:08:00.009-05:00

"Hello, My name is Cheapo and I'm addicted to free."

Look kids! Cheapo is even cheap on Sunday! After looking at the CVS flyer, Cheapo didn't know if she would be able to pull through this week. But, Halloween is around the corner. Can you tell what Cheapo might be handing out to trick or treaters this year?

Yep! You guessed it! And since the candy deal limit is 5, Cheapo will be SURE to have enough goodies for all of the little costumed boogie oogies.

Here's how Cheapo got all of this:

8 pk. Extra Gum: $1.00
4 Bags of Dove Chocolates: $12.00 - 2 BOGOF printable Q (sorry, I don't think these are available anymore) - $5.00 ECB (Spend $10 on candy, get $5 back)
1 bag of Airhead Minis: $2.00
1 105 ct. Twizzlers: $5.00 - $5.00 ECB (same deal)
18 ct. Alavert Allergy Med: $5.99 - $4.00 printable Q - $3.00 ECB
CVS Handsoap: $1.69 - $2.00 printable CVS Q
2 Greeting Cards: $5.98 - BOGOF printable Q
(click on Printable Coupons)

After paying with Q's, printable CVS Q $2/$10 and $14.99 prior ECB's - her grand total with tax was $2.36! She even received $13.00 back! Cheapo's total would've been even less had she not forgotten about a birthday party today. Should have planned ahead Cheapo! *tisk, tisk*

Keep watching for more "Shopping Adventures."

Shadow Shot Sunday: #2 For Me

2008-08-09T20:03:00.005-05:00

Jail Time?

Nope (not this week anyway). A bright, sunny morning delivered this photo opportunity through my half circle, foyer window - shooting straight through the staircase railing - landing at the foot of my bedroom door. I didn't have to look far for this week's entry, now did I?

Of course, Sukyaki had to get his mug in the game. Anything on the floor belongs to him you know - bugs, bags, boxes...shadows? Whatever makes him happy.

Make sure to visit Hey Harriet to see what might be lurking in other shadows.

Skywatch Friday

2008-08-07T20:19:00.004-05:00

A sunset like this unheard of in Indiana? NO WAY! Nature finds a way to paint a masterpiece in the sky almost every night of the Midwestern summer...and we love it. Isn't it funny how we all share the same sun, but you can tell where you live by the value of the sunset?
"Only in Indiana..."

Share your photo or gaze at other skies at Skywatch Friday.

Summer Fun Photo Contest

2008-08-06T13:56:00.004-05:00

5 Mintues for Mom is having a $500 Summer Fun Photo Contest...and here is MY entry. The object of the photo is to "reveal the spirit of summer fun." Doesn't this expression just "reveal THAT spirit?" She was so hot and tired from Slip'n'sliding, she was trying to catch the sprinkling water on her tongue! Hoping to make it as a finalist, as the list will be posted on August 15th. Wish me luck!

"Hot fun in the summertime...hot fun in the summertime..." - Sly & The Family Stone

Wordless Wednesday

2008-08-06T06:47:00.008-05:00

Just "hanging out" with Jango Fett. If you want to "hang out" with Wordless Wednesday, take a peek at 5 Minutes for Mom!

As requested by a commenter, here is another guy just "maxin' n' relaxin' in wax." I originally didn't post this picture as I couldn't get the camera to focus right. So, as you can see, these little guys are EVERYWHERE!

"Hey, all you little men, beware of the DYSON!"

Tackle It Tuesday: The Pickle Mishap

2008-08-05T19:20:00.012-05:00

Here it is, my first Tackle It Tuesday. By joining in on this Tuesday activity, you are supposed to be able to "make housework blog-able." We'll try anything when it comes to cleaning house, right? Well, I suppose it's really all about accountability - and we could all use a little of that here or there in our lives.

I had to think long and hard about what I wanted to "tackle" today. I'm a rather organized person by nature, so many of the, so called, little things around the house are mainly kept up or done (except for my home school room - which is a total mess in the basement, but Jake had piano lessons today and it was just too big of a project to be interrupted - nice excuse, right?) I recently cleaned my closet, just organized a bathroom cabinet and am almost finished re-doing a guest room....hmmm. I know! I think I'll create a huge mess in the kitchen JUST as I'm about to leave for work! Yeah! That's IT! *rolls eyes*

Let me explain - over the weekend, my husband and I did a lot of canning and preserving of pickles and jelly. We had some bread and butter pickle brine leftover, so we decided to slice up the leftover cukes and put them in the fridge. Enough was made to fill two Tupperware containers full of the sweet & sour goodies. Long story, short - the tops to the containers wouldn't seal properly so they kept popping up a bit - Kurt was concerned - I said they would be fine, just put them in the fridge. So, there they stacked and we were proud. Until this morning, when the popped up lid stuck to the bottom of the lunch meat drawer - I opened the drawer and guess what? Yup! All of those little thin slices along with the lava syrup flung all over the floor, all over my legs and all over my clothes - and I needed to be at work in about one minute.

Remember those old cartoons where the characters would get mad and the tops of their heads would pop off and steam would roll out of their ears? That was me. No, seriously. I should have taken a picture. My short, long story even shorter, the kitchen was a mess and the floor was so sticky, I believe it exfoliated my feet (no need for a foot grater now, right?) So, there is my Tackle It Tuesday - cleaning the kitchen and scrubbing the floor - THREE TIMES.

Before and After - See the dog there? - He's stuck to the floor. (no, not really hehe)

The Shopping Adventures of Cheapo McFrugalpants

2008-08-05T06:52:00.016-05:00

"Hello, My name is Cheapo and I am addicted to free."

What does Cheapo have in store for us this week? Tell us Cheapo, how did you save money at CVS for the week of August 3rd? It looks like Cheapo found lots of good coupons, making that OOP (that's Out Of Pocket to you and me) cash go down, down, down.
Break it down for us McFrug.

First Trip of the Week

Cheddar Chex Mix - $1.50 - $1.00 printable Q(They have since turned to $.60 Q's)
Crest Whitening Expressions Toothpaste - $2.49 - $.75 Sunday Q - $1.50 ECB
Oral B Advantage Toothbrusth - $2.49 - $1.00 Sunday Q - $1.50 ECB
2 Children's Advil - $11.58 - 2 $1.00 printable Q's - $11.58 ECB
Covergirl TruBlend Foundation - $8.99 - B1G1F Sunday Q
Covergirl TruBlend Powder - Free from store sale - $1.00 Sunday Q
Pert Plus - $3.69 - $2.00 Sunday Q
Pert Plus - Free from store sale - $1.00 Sunday Q
CVS Handsoap - $1.69 - $2.00 printable CVS Q (click printable coupons)

What does all of this mean Cheapo? It means that after paying with a $10.00 prior ECB and a printable CVS q (Save $2 on $10), Cheapo only paid $.69 plus $1.19 tax for a grand total of $1.88 - YES, for ALL of THAT stuff!!
**Use your buy one get one free coupons on items that are sale priced as buy one get one free - you'll end up getting BOTH items free! Also, if the store is having a BOGOF sale - don't forget to use a coupon on the free item as well! Just a little tip from Cheapo - helping the world save a little money one reader at a time.

Second Trip of the Week

Dean's 2% Gallon Milk - $2.99
CVS Handsoap - $1.69 - $2.00 printable CVS Q
Gilette Power Fusion Razor - $9.99 - $4.00 Sunday Q - $3.00 ECB
2 Colgate Advanced Clean Toothpaste - $5.98 - 2 printable $1.50 Q's - $4.00 ECB
CVS Aspirin - $1.99 - $1.99 CRT Q (Cash Register Tape)
6 Hr. Extreme Energy Shots - $4.99 - $4.99 ECB

After Cheapo paid with an $11.58 ECB and a printable CVS Q (save $2 on $10), with tax, she only paid $3.55 OOP Cash - Yes my friends, only $3.55! She would've paid more than that for a gallon of milk at the local grocery store! And if that isn't good enough, Cheapo received $11.99 in ECB's back. That brings the McFrugalpants grand weekly total to: $5.43

Stay tuned for more "Shopping Adventures" and see what else Cheapo might find this week!

Shadow Shot Sunday

2008-08-03T20:48:00.008-05:00

My very first Shadow Shot Sunday :) In looking back through some of my photography, I found it difficult to find pictures of shadows. I do tend to look for shadows in shots since I normally focus on black and white photography, where it is needed for good contrast. I'll have to consciously pay a little more attention in the future.
If you are interested in seeing more "Shadow Shot Sunday" entries, please visit Hey Harriet!

Grated Feet: A Lesson on Aging

2008-08-02T07:58:00.008-05:00

My 9 year old son, Jacob, has always been an insightful, intelligent type of child. Even as a young tyke, he was not one to fall for distraction tactics or psychological twists. "Oh, honey, you're crying - you hurt your foot? Let's put an ice pack on it - you'll be ok. Hey! Look at that butterfly over there!" Nope, never worked - "One Track Willie" - my husband and I used to lovingly refer to him as (between the two of us of course). "The Great Distracter" also comes to mind, which we used when he was trying to pull the psychological games on US - but that's another story. Anyway, back to the insightful part. A few days back during one of our many CVS trips, Jacob noticed a display rack filled with a foot care product. As we left the store, "Hey Mom," he commented. "There was this thing in there called a Pedi-egg." At this point, I can see the corners of his mouth beginning to tug and his eyes appear as if he is going to start laughing at any moment. "It's this thing shaped like an egg and it has like a cheese grater (starts revving up a laugh as he's talking) on one side and you grate your feet off with it!" (is now in a full blown laugh) At this point, I start laughing because I realize how strange that must seem to him; a totally foreign concept! As we got in the van and calmed our giggles, I went on to explain to him that as you get older, your feet don't stay all smooth and shiny, like when you are younger. And some people just "grate" all that off. Well, the idea of the cheese grater just didn't seem so funny anymore. Matter of fact, I think he was now either thoroughly grossed out or lost in his own foot grating visual since there was not another word said about this topic. Let's skip ahead a few days. Yesterday morning when Jacob started waking up, I laid in his bed and watch a little tv with him. We always enjoy those little times, but Jacob never wants them to end. Eventually, I had to get up and get a few things done. He thought it was funny to try and hold my arms so I wouldn't get up. Finally, I started laughing and told him that I had to get up so I could go grate my feet. Oh.My.Gosh. We both started laughing so hard that I thought we would wet our pants. After the cackle session, Jacob said, "That was REALLY funny mom, but it's sort of a bad joke for you because if you have to go grate your feet, (now here he starts getting quieter and quieter and slower and slower with each word) it..means...you....are.....getting......older." At first he thought he insulted me, but I laughed and gave him a nudge to let him know it was ok. Life's lesson on foot grating was learned. Isn't it great when things come full circle?

The Shopping Adventures of Cheapo McFrugalpants

2008-07-31T07:10:00.006-05:00

"Hi, My name is Cheapo and I am addicted to free."

It all started back in February of 2008 when Cheapo McFrugalpants was introduced to the "CVS Game" by her friend, Michelle. Ever since then, Cheapo has made many, many trips to CVS each week to see what she can "buy for free."
Let's see what McFrug found this week.

Wow! Look at all of that! Because Cheapo is running low on ECB's (that's Extra Care Bucks to you and me), she had to make 3 visits to CVS in order to get everything she wanted. By using her ECB's and coupons, she only paid $6.22 for everything pictured above! ($1.93 on trip 1 & $4.29 on trip 2) Wondering what she found on trip 3?

Nice Job Cheapo! *gives thumbs up and cheesy smile complete with "ding" sound* She only spent 35 cents this time! Wondering how you can play? Everything you need to know can be found here. Then, you too, can become a Cheapo McFrugalpants.

Stay tuned for the next edition of "Shopping Adventures!"

If You Like Pina Coladas...

2008-07-31T06:50:00.008-05:00

Do you ever just get that craving? You know, the one where you can think of nothing else until you satisfy that craving? Well, I had that this week. The craving was Coconut Shrimp. Now, I don't know where this craving came from because as a general rule, I don't eat seafood. I have eaten shrimp in the past, but it's not something I order or usually even buy. So, this week at the grocery store, I found myself ringing the doorbell at the seafood counter. Once again, let me say that I am not *that* seafood savvy. Laying there amongst the ice were three sizes of raw shrimp - [what I consider to be] regular size, bigger than regular and oh-my-gosh-it's-shrimp-on-steroids size. The steroidal price was just as unappealing. Ok...um...what do I get? The regular size WAS kinda small, not salad shrimp mind you, but kinda small - THOUGH, they were already de-veined. Certainly the bigger size had more meat on them, but did I want to go through the trouble of de-veining each one AND pay $2.00 more per pound? Well, my alter ego, Cheapo McFrugalpants took over and ordered a pound of the regular sized headless swimmers. Jacob was thoroughly creeped out by the lobster tank by the time I got my little white package of shrimp, so we checked out and took the treasure home. Oh, my husband was MORE than thrilled to hear we were having coconut shrimp for dinner. Though, he did mention, "I think you are supposed to have the bigger shrimp for this." Me - "These are regular size, they should be fine." (do you hear myself reassuring myself?) In preparation for this endeavor, I started rinsing and peeling the shrimp. My thoughts sort of went like this: "Boy, I'm sure glad I didn't get the ones with the veins." "Wow, the shell comes off of these pretty easy." "(about half way through) "Hmm...there are quite a few shrimp in one pound." "Maybe I SHOULD have gotten the bigger ones - there wouldn't be as many." "No, these will be perfect." "Gosh, I'm sick of peeling these things." At this point, I've already prepared the 3 dipping bowls and had the oil ready to fry. "OOhh, these are going to be great! I'm so hungry!" Wait, something was missing. Kurt decided to turn on my favorite Mexican cha cha music and since there was so much Pina Colada mix leftover from the recipe - hey, why not? So we drank our pinas and felt the groove while making the dipping sauce (because it needed to cool while we fried the shrimp). On to frying! I did the dipping while Kurt did the frying - it seemed to work out very well with 2 people. Dip, dip, coat, dip, coat, fry. Dip, dip, coat, dip, coat, fry. About half way through, Kurt asked how much was left. Wide eyed, I just stepped back so he could see the "bigger-than-he-had-hoped" pile of shrimp. I asked if maybe we should stop. He said no, fry them up! So away we went. Dip, dip, coat, dip, coat, fry. As my fingers were well coated and starting to prune up (I think), I was realizing that I wasn't so hungry anymore. The drink had half filled me up and the coconut shrimp craving just didn't seem as strong as it once was. Matter of fact, I think I had had enough of shrimp for a LONG time - and I hadn't even eaten one yet. Anyway, we finished the shrimp and it was DELICIOUS! Kurt tasted one first so I asked him if the taste was worth the effort. He said, "Do you mean we should we have used bigger shrimp?" (still trying to defend my choice) "NO - I meant does the taste equal the work involved?!" I'm laughing at myself right now; why am I always so stubborn? I have to work on this. Oh, to finish off, the shrimp was great - I recommend it. Although, next time I would use bigger shrimp and would even consider the Schwarzenegger shrimp along side of steak for a dinner party. The dipping sauce alone would even be tasty over ice cream or used as a fruit dip. And if you don't like shrimp or don't have time to deal with the prep - use chicken - I'm sure it would be delish!

For your enjoyment, here is the recipe I used.

Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp
1 c. plain bread crumbs (I used seasoned)
1/2 c. cornstarch
1 c. sweetened coconut flakes
1/2 c pina colada mix
1 TB powdered sugar
3 TB Captain Morgan's spiced rum
1/2 c. cornstarch
vegetable oil for frying
1/2 lb. large shrimp (butterfly the shrimp - oops, I didn't do that which is why mine curled) I used a whole pound of shrimp and used up the coating fine.

Dipping Sauce: (we doubled this recipe)
1 c. pina colada mix
1/2 c. water
2 TB crushed pineapple, drained (used a bit more)
1 TB sweetened coconut flakes
PLUS: 1 t. sweetened coconut flakes
3 TB powdered sugar PLUS
1 t. powdered sugar
1 1/2 t. cornstarch
3 t. cold water

Directions:
Mix bread crumbs, 1/4 c. cornstarch, & coconut in deep bowl and set aside. Combine pina colada mix, powdered sugar & rum in a small mixing bowl and set aside. Place 1/2 c. cornstarch in a separate bowl. Heat oil for deep frying. Oil is ready for frying shrimp when it reaches 375 degrees. Coat shrimp first in corn starch, then into pina colada mix, athen dush shrimp in crumb/coconut mixture. Second coating, place back into pina colada mix then again into the crumb/coconut mixture. Hence - dip, dip, coat, dip, coat, fry. Place prepared shrimp carefully into hot oil. Fry until golden brown, remove from fryer and drain. At this time, we salted the shrimp as it needed that salty/sweet contrast. I think it would've been too sweet without it.

For the dipping sauce: (do this first as it needs to cool) Mix pina colada mix, water, crushed pineapple, coconut and powdered sugar in a sauce pan. Heat on medium low temp until sauce begins to simmer, stirring frequently. Let mixture simmer slowly 10-12 minutes. Mix cornstarch and water together, add to sauce and blend well. Let mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes longer while stirring during and after adding cornstarch. Remove from heat and bring to room temperature. Sauce is served at room temperature with Parrot Bay Rum Shrimp.

If you try this, leave me a comment and let me know how you like it!

So...sing it with me..."If you like Pina Coladas...getting caught in the rain..."

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-30T12:26:00.004-05:00

Make sure to visit 5 Minutes For Mom for other Wordless Wednesday Photos!

Does Time Really Go Faster As You Get Older?

2008-07-30T12:23:00.002-05:00

Only 2..well...almost 3 months late - but I'm back to blogging. :) Looking forward to getting back in the circle.

No Time

2008-05-06T07:43:00.002-05:00

Ok...I really, REALLY wanted to have time daily for this blog - but I'm accepting the fact that I don't. Gonna try REALLY hard to keep updating :)

Project Green: Take Two

2008-04-22T21:02:00.004-05:00

"At Rest"
2008

My husband's grandmother passed away back in February; this is a statue from a flower arrangement that was at the service. We will soon be putting this little angel in our garden. More Project Green here.

My son, Jacob, has now involved himself in these photography projects. I'm not sure that I like sharing my camera LOL. He has now started his OWN blog - you can visit him here.

Project Green: Take One

2008-04-21T20:58:00.005-05:00

"Earned"
2008

Anna Carson has done it again...another project! This time - Project Green. At first, I thought, "Too easy." But after looking around, it's rather difficult finding green items that are interesting enough to photograph, or can be looked at in an interesting way. The dollars jumped out at me as they lay on the table waiting to be spent at the neighborhood ice cream truck. I like the way the lines in the wood set off the bills. Please see her website for more participants.

Project Yellow: Take 5...the end

2008-04-16T18:07:00.003-05:00

"Finally"
2008

The last day of Project Yellow and the 'dills finally opened up! Lucky me! I tried to capture a "bug's eye view" instead of the typical flower shot.
Anna Carson, thank you again for this fun opportunity! I will be watching for your next project!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-16T09:27:00.002-05:00

This is my first post in the "Wordless Wednesday" meme. From now on, I will not say anything about these photos. As, to my understanding, they are supposed to be "Wordless."

For other WW participants, please see 5 Minutes For Mom .

Project Yellow Jr.

2008-04-15T07:00:00.010-05:00

"Lemon a la Mode" by Jake

2008

Saved by the camera! Had some grocery shopping to do yesterday; a chore my 8 yr. old detestes. In the midst of his complaining, I remembered that my trusty camera was in my purse! Since he has been following along with Project Yellow, I decided this would be a perfect place for him to participate. Though many of the shots were blurry (he hasn't figured out the focus aspect yet), here are a few that I thought were post-worthy. I fell in love with the Lemon photo above. I may even print it, frame it, and put it in the kitchen :)

Funny how the whole perspective of photography changes when you are 4 ft. tall. Being sure most of these were happy accidents, I love how he captured some typical elements of photography: the contrast of the lemons, the lines of the summer squash leading to a splash of red and the framing of the corn meal with white. I just loved the fact that he could've cared less what people though about him taking pictures in the grocery store - future photographer on my hands?? If you feel led, please comment on his photos - he will be excited to read them. :)

Odd Shots Monday

2008-04-14T15:56:00.007-05:00

I've decided to try my hand at Odd Shots Monday. If you would like to play too, you can find participants and rules at Katney's Kaboodle. Click on the Odd Shots photo above.

"Sugar Swirls"
2007

How I wish I had a new camera - one that takes crisp, clear pictures in any lighting situation. But, for now, the one I have will have to do. Here is my odd shot; can you guess what it is? If you are a baker, you will know that this is batter. After doing some mixing, the beaters left such an interesting trail that I couldn't resist snapping a picture. I think I would be safe to say that this qualifies as an "odd shot."

Project Yellow: Take 3

2008-04-14T08:27:00.012-05:00

"Peeking Spring"

2008

Finally, a bit of morning sunshine today. With camera in hand and dog by my side, I decided to stroll outside in search of a shot for this yellow adventure. Might I say...DIFFICULT? Yes, I could photograph an everyday item with an everyday view - but that was not what I was looking for. At first, I was having a love/hate battle with the sunlight; loving it for being out, hating it for casting shadows of my camera and hands wherever I was shooting. In the end, the love won with appreciation for the flower shadows against the brick wall.

For more participants, see Anna's site!

Nifty Thrifty: Homemade Laundry Detergent

2008-04-13T19:57:00.013-05:00

Anyone that knows me, knows very well that I LOVE to save money or get a good deal. I'm the type of person that only buys items on sale or with a coupon. During these times, we overpay on so many everyday items. Therefore, we all deserve to save a little money, right?

Recently, my friend Michelle, has turned me on to making homemade laundry detergent. She bought a "kit", concocted the soap and gave me some to try. To my surprise, I LOVED it! For years now, I have been buying "Earth Friendly" cleaners and soaps in hopes of saving the world and avoiding as many chemicals as possible. Ah ha! This homemade goop is so much more economical, very fast to make along with much gratification.
If you think you can't make it, you are wrong. It was so simple and took no time at all. Here is the recipe I followed: Homemade Laundry Soap Add some water and a 2 gallon bucket to the items above, and voila, you have your very own detergent...smells nice too! I've also read on other sites that fabric softener is not needed when using this formula - another money saving, chemical free tip!

*Note: As the mixture cools, it does go from liquid to "Egg Drop Soup" - so don't be alarmed. You just use 1/2 c. per load of the slime.

How does this save money? The Simple Dollar has it all broken down for you. Take a look! Here in Northwest Indiana, I paid: $.99 for 1 bar of Fels Naptha soap, $3.79 for Borax, $2.29 for A&H Washing Powder, and $1.00 for a 2 gallon bucket. Not a bad savings!

Project Yellow: Take 2...part deux

2008-04-13T13:52:00.005-05:00

"Dusty Strum"
2008

I felt the need to post another shot for "Project Yellow" today. I now have camera power (AKA: digital batteries WITH backup) and hope not to have to dig back in the archives for photos (for now anyway.) On my way to CVS to pick up the batteries, I was REALLY aware of how little the color yellow shows up on a pre-spring day in the Midwest. Amazes me how much a small project like this can make you view things differently. In general, I'm a black and white photographer; meaning I look at shots as light and dark, not necessarily as colorful. An activity such as this is really opening my eyes to other details around me. People don't do enough of that, in my humble opinion.

*Note: Now that I look at this picture - I'm not sure the guitar is really "yellow." But...it will have to do :)

Project Yellow: Take 2

2008-04-12T22:54:00.006-05:00

"Sanity Garden"
2005

A few years back, when my son was just a little guy, there were days when I literally felt I was going nuts. I didn't have much yard room for a traditional flower garden, so I decided to dig up a small, dinky area in which I entitled it my "Sanity Garden." Whenever I had "those days", I would head out there and look for my mind. There's something about cutting dead flowers, planting new ones or just smelling the dirt that is peaceful and satisfying to me.

I know you've noticed...but I've had to get in the way-back-machine and pull up a few old photos in order to participate in "Project Yellow" this week. Unfortunately, my camera is dead and I've failed to have back up power on hand. *hangs head* What a shame...I know. BUT, hope is on the way today! Can't wait to start snapping once again.

For more project participants, check out Anna's site!

Raises Hand New Daily Blogger Here!

2008-04-12T22:50:00.003-05:00

Okay...I have a concern. Can anyone give me advice about protecting photography online? I mean...not that I'm some professional photographer or anything, but I would hate, Hate, HATE to see something I did turn up on a greeting card or somewhere with someone else's name on it. I'm really dying to delve into the different blogging activities, but there is a little part of me (that nagging part) that is still reserved. Thanks ahead for any help!

Project Yellow: Take 1 and...Take 1

2008-04-11T19:59:00.005-05:00

"Glass Fireworks"
2006
Do you ever find something so memorizing that you want to dive yourself right into it? I find myself doing that with many things that are patterned or repetitive in nature. That is exactly what I did here. The above picture is only a taste of this 4-5 story tower of blown glass; an exhibit at the Indianapolis Children's Museum.

My very first post on this blog and I'm jumping in head first. With extreme inspiration from the blogging community, I've decided it was time to get creative and start my own blog. What better way to start than with "Project Yellow." Thanks to Anna for starting such a project of detailed awareness!