tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39644817809459486352024-02-02T13:47:45.032-08:00The Home That Jack's BuildingHelpful hints and tips to everyday Home LifeJackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-81855185476147761762014-02-12T11:44:00.000-08:002014-02-12T11:44:02.421-08:00What's Cookin' Wednesday!…and Giveaway?!?!<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">** WIN A KITCHENAID HAND MIXER OR $50 AMAZON GIFT CARD**</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6jOeY6WvKNy4zvMxCHdky0m98A2rHDS7xkBDbtghR434d3Ek5UuibYjetdyGbRnUi8XvCQXCu9cN48wzoHaDwTUJ2n6jxoR1ujzA8zT5GEVXqaqo2mEeAr8a7AFUjI1N2yVNoYehK6Ow/s1600/Standalone_1175X1290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6jOeY6WvKNy4zvMxCHdky0m98A2rHDS7xkBDbtghR434d3Ek5UuibYjetdyGbRnUi8XvCQXCu9cN48wzoHaDwTUJ2n6jxoR1ujzA8zT5GEVXqaqo2mEeAr8a7AFUjI1N2yVNoYehK6Ow/s1600/Standalone_1175X1290.jpg" height="320" width="291" /></a></div>
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Today for What's Cookin' Wednesday, I want to know one of YOUR favorite recipes!! Email me your recipes at chelseaheapphotography@gmail.com (photos are ALWAYS welcome) and then share this link on your page. You get one entry for sharing a recipe with us and an extra entry for everyday you share the link!! The more entries you have, the better chance you have at winning!! <span style="color: red;">ALL ENTRIES MUST BE IN BY 12PM PST THURSDAY FEB 20TH.</span> Anyone can enter, but you MUST be a fan of our page (or follower of our blog)! The winner may choose which gift they would like! Each person to send in a recipe (if they would like) will be featured in a What's Cookin' Wednesday blog! <span style="color: red;">WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON FRIDAY FEB 21ST! </span>Good luck!!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-50652066895454218822014-02-05T11:25:00.000-08:002014-02-05T11:25:20.743-08:00What's cooking Wednesday : Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bacon WrapsAs most of you know, I love Pinterest! I don't spend a lot of time pinning, (ain't nobody got time for that!) but I do love trying the recipes I do pin! This recipe come from the <a href="http://www.101cookingfortwo.com/" target="_blank">101 Cooking For Two</a> blog. Last week we ate extremely healthy all week long, so come Friday I was ready for something not to super healthy! This recipe was perfect!<br />
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<b><u>Sweet and Spicy Chicken and Bacon Wraps</u></b><br />
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<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list" style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Pontano Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.5em; list-style: none; margin: 1em; padding: 0px 0px 0px 2.4em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">about 1 1/4 pounds skinless boneless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch cubes</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1 1/2 pounds bacon</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">2/3 cup dark brown sugar (I used regular brown sugar)</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">2 T chili powder</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" itemprop="ingredients" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1/2 t cumin</li>
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<ol class="instructions" id="zlrecipe-instructions-list" style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Pontano Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3em; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Preheat oven to 350 convection. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2/3 cup dark brown sugar, 2 T chili powder and 1/2 t cumin. Mix well.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Clean and trim about 1 1/4 pounds of skinless boneless chicken breast. Cut into approx. 1 inch cubes.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If using thick bacon, thin out with the back edge of a chef knife. Cut the bacon in half, roll around the chicken cubes and secure with a tooth pick. This is the point to cover and refrigerate for better timing.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Prep baking sheet with aluminum foil a rack and spray with PAM.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Roll the pieces in the brown sugar mixture. Be sure to pack some in the ends. Place on the rack.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-5" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-type: decimal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Bake until golden brown. About 35 minutes for me. Cover with foil on heavy dish to keep warm until served.</li>
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<span style="font-family: Pontano Sans, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: 27px;">These were the perfect size to just pop in your mouth! They were pretty irresistible, so we made them again on Sunday for the big game! Can't wait to see what you all think!</span></span></div>
<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-70459050300620735472013-08-16T13:02:00.004-07:002013-08-16T13:48:53.925-07:00Choose Your Love. Love Your Choice!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Once upon a time, a handsome boy walked into the life of a beautiful girl and swept her off her feet!<br>
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After a whirlwind of dating and having the time of their lives, the boy decided to "put a ring on it." </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pzC8hCc6T8AHr6fUbdKXPkyYe9ZZsHgnVCsOXd0derXYXd0TZwTUmFftLvOZbZL6t2tKn_KYdHjYznJ7rOajodE_dCfc0v1bIGwc4s79l4qbY_1HVB0wngZe3UznSFxzJz79V7vGffw/s1600/Untitled+4.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pzC8hCc6T8AHr6fUbdKXPkyYe9ZZsHgnVCsOXd0derXYXd0TZwTUmFftLvOZbZL6t2tKn_KYdHjYznJ7rOajodE_dCfc0v1bIGwc4s79l4qbY_1HVB0wngZe3UznSFxzJz79V7vGffw/s200/Untitled+4.tiff" width="200"></a></div>
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The handsome boy took the beautiful girl to a big white castle, where they were married for Time and Eternity.</div>
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Then they rode off into the sunset and lived Happily Ever After!</div>
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THE END.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggoOjLo9ciK9B4pXrlSxWEb8aeQjmAT_XOp7h-LWTzfolnXS7uqYacalh6t1-Bzv9l_uUvRFJMQ5RuXt79DKovOeAIPIIEMH1WPjF-Mn-dhDlaLYVah53sOF6s1-TLV3CkPYdYnksYE_0/s1600/Untitled1.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggoOjLo9ciK9B4pXrlSxWEb8aeQjmAT_XOp7h-LWTzfolnXS7uqYacalh6t1-Bzv9l_uUvRFJMQ5RuXt79DKovOeAIPIIEMH1WPjF-Mn-dhDlaLYVah53sOF6s1-TLV3CkPYdYnksYE_0/s200/Untitled1.tiff" width="149"></a></div>
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WHOA!! SLOW DOWN....Why is it that Fairy Tales always end with "They got married and lived happily ever after"? It's because no one wants to hear the truth about what "happily ever after" means. </div>
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They don't want to hear about how you will live in the smallest apartment known to mankind. Or that even though you work two jobs you are still scrambling to make ends meet. Or practically living off of bags and bags of Reese's Pieces because you literally got 1 bag with every wedding gift you received! They don't want to hear about the years and money and stress that you will spend on a college degree. They don't talk about the small silly arguments over laundry detergent brands, what to watch on tv, or who's Family do we spend holidays with. </div>
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What about when kids start coming? No one wants to talk about the horrendous pain you will be in while also battling days with no sleep and being on the brink of a mental breakdown. The puke in your hair, poop on your face, (yes, that really happened) and never-ending piles of laundry. Or what about finding the right job that will help you support your Family? I can go on and on about all of the things that we never hear about in fairy tales, but the</div>
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bottom line is folks, being married can be stressful. Not everyone can hack it, and that my friends is why the divorce rate in our country is soaring though the roof!</div>
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About a year ago someone said to us "Ya'll are just so cute! Always having fun like brand new newlyweds!" Tomorrow, Captain Hunk and I will celebrate our ELEVENTH wedding anniversary! Even though we went through ALL of the above said things (and a lot more), and we are certainly no experts, we have a few secrets about the foundation of our marriage and what keeps it standing strong, even through all of the storms.</div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord."</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 Corinthians 11:11</span></div>
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First and foremost, it's no secret that we are a religious Family. We would not have the things that we have, including each other, were it not for our Father In Heaven. He is the MOST important person in our lives and because of our love for Him and our faith in Him, Captain Hunk and I are able to love each other as deeply as we do. Without Him, we would be nothing. That being said, one thing that we do, and probably the most important, is pray together. When we have big decisions to make or are seeking counsel, we turn to our Father in Heaven. We have taught Troop how to pray and to love our Father in Heaven as well. Every night before bed, as a Family, we read from the scriptures and say prayers as a Family. We love our Savior and our Father in Heaven and because of that, we have so much more love in our home.</div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">"Marriage provides an ideal setting for overcoming any tendency to be selfish or self-centered...Pure love is an incomparable, potent power for good, and the foundation of a successful marriage."</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> - Richard G. Scott</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKM26QPcFZonLCGYTBR-xg6E5IK6-nmV05rkzVoRgJN1k3osVgobzRVpFY_dskQ30TMEQVYQXI_Y-2qP8B53jkS3hT6lalkN_sbHozc1chGxTrCDGWQHjSkmWW-FAXRAASIgiR5og6-qE/s1600/Untitled+5.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKM26QPcFZonLCGYTBR-xg6E5IK6-nmV05rkzVoRgJN1k3osVgobzRVpFY_dskQ30TMEQVYQXI_Y-2qP8B53jkS3hT6lalkN_sbHozc1chGxTrCDGWQHjSkmWW-FAXRAASIgiR5og6-qE/s200/Untitled+5.tiff" width="200"></a></div>
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<b><u>Selfless Love</u></b></div>
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Being selfless in a marriage, or loving unselfishly, is SO important. It's so easy to put our children's needs before our own, but how often do we put our spouse's needs first? On that note, your spouse should come before your children. As hard as that is to hear, it's true. While we also need to love our children selflessly, they should be 2nd in line only to your spouse. In order for your children to learn to have good strong relationships, they need to understand and notice how important the relationship is between their parents. Make it known to them. Let them know how much you love them, but also let them know much you love your spouse. Being openly affectionate (to a point) is OKAY! In fact, it's necessary. A lot of couples like to go their separate ways and have a girls/boys night out. Don't make a habit of this. While I believe it is important to have your own friends (I've got to have my "sisters" who support me through deployments) I don't believe that ditching your spouse to go "party with the ladies" is ok. It leaves too much room for trouble, temptation, and regret.</div>
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Remember before you were married or even dating, you flirted with people to get their attention. You flirted with them back then and it was fun, so why stop. It's still fun to play hard to get, or tease each other, or say silly flirty things to each other. Flirting keeps things lively. The same with dating. How many dates did you go on BEFORE you were married compared to how many AFTER? Dating while you are married is so important. I understand it can be hard with kids. But you NEED to do it. We try as best as we can to go on a date, just the two of us, at LEAST 2-3 times a month. It doesn't even have to cost money. Take the time to be just the two of you, as a couple. Pretend you are still young and out on a first or second date. Only the best part is, you can invite your date inside for a sleepover!! And never EVER miss a chance to say I Love You!</div>
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<b><u>Keep it fun/Laugh</u></b></div>
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Don't sweat the small stuff. Don't get angry over something that you know you will laugh about later down the road! Go ahead and laugh at it now, and then laugh again later! Dress up in those ridiculous matching halloween costumes, and when you are out on a date, don't miss the opportunity to dance your heart out. Even if you are just taking a walk in the park. Most of you have music on your phones, and if you don't, dance without it. Just two weeks ago, we enjoyed a little slow dance in the living while discussing somethings and we had NO music playing. We were just enjoying the moment. Something I can promise you, Captain Hunk probably doesn't enjoy dressing up for Halloween every year, but he does it just to see me smile. Same goes with the dancing thing. He never misses an opportunity to line dance with me, not because he loves it, but because I do and he loves me. That is selfless love! We love being silly and we love to laugh! It is a major part of our foundation.</div>
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<b><u>Communication</u></b></div>
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The lack of communication can be very damaging to a marriage. While Captain Hunk and I have done our fair share of finishing each others thoughts, we can't always assume that the other knows what we are thinking or feeling. If something is bothering you, keeping it to your self will only make it worse. You need to talk about it and not assume or just think that they should already know. Verbally express those feelings. I am the worst at this. I can write/type ALL of my feelings and emotions, but expressing them verbally has never been easy for me. Take time when it's just the two of you to discuss these matters. Our deepest thoughts and worries always seem to come out late at night when we are already in bed. This is also a great time to talk about why and how much you love each other. It is important to remind your spouse of these things, and by saying them out loud, you also remind yourself. Being a Military Family, we know what it is like to be separated for long periods of time. Don't let this ruin that great line of communication you have going. When he deploys, TDY's, or whatever it may be, although we talk on the phone everyday, we also take the time to email each other, everyday, if possible. In his year long deployment we may have missed 5 days of emailing. I don't want him to miss out on one minute of our life back at home and visa versa. I would tell him in detail what happened that day, so he still felt apart of things. It also makes the transition of him coming home a little smoother. Most importantly, discuss your finances. That is such an ugly subject, but if everything is out in the open then there is no need for argument about it later. Communication is the key to success!</div>
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Another thing that I feel is a part of communication is grief. The hard times WILL come. Don't feel like you have to face them alone. That's what you have each other for. In our time together we have dealt with deployments, PTSD, miscarriages, the loss of loved ones, my parents divorce, negativity towards us, moving far far away from Family/friends...just to name a few. Each of these things have made us grow closer because of the way we went about them. We turned to each other. We cried together. We comforted each other. We loved each other. And we did it together.</div>
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<b><u>Physical Touch</u></b></div>
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This is such a big thing. It doesn't matter if you have been married 2 years, 20 years, or even 50. Never stop touching each other. Even if it's just holding hands while you sit next to each other on the couch, or a light peck on the cheek. Never miss the chance for a quick or long meaningful hug. We love to cuddle. In fact, I am pretty sure neither one of us can fall asleep without touching the other one somewhere. Even if just our feet are touching. A small touch to your spouse can speak a thousand words. I promise. A soft kiss on the cheek means more to me than diamonds or flowers. And as much as some people don't like to say it out loud, it is very important to have a strong and active intimate relationship. But be sure to talk to each other about your needs and wants. Again, communication is the key to success! ;)</div>
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We have made it through and will continue to make it through the hard parts of marriage by working together and doing the not-so-hard things. Most of these things seem like obvious things, but sometimes we need to be reminded. You made this choice! Now love it like it will end tomorrow!</div>
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Do things together. Play together. Laugh together. Discuss problems together. And if your spouse is the problem, talk about it, nicely. Yelling will not get you ANYWHERE! Flirt, tease, dance, cuddle. Don't let your marriage end at "And they lived happily ever after". Let your marriage begin at "And they <b><i><u>LIVE</u></i></b> happily ever after!</div>
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png"></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-63143013383302641542013-07-10T10:25:00.001-07:002013-07-10T10:25:17.573-07:00Costa Vida/ Cafe Rio Salads!!It's Wednesday again!! Did everyone have a great Independence Day? I sure hope so! This week's recipe comes from one of my FAVORITE places! Costa Vida!! I haven't made this since we left CO and I have been craving it!! THis recipe is SPOT ON! anyone who has eaten it at my house will testify to that! Make sure you don't leave anything out and you include all of the yummy add ons!<br />
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<strong><u>Cafe Rio/Costa Vida Sweet Pork Salad</u></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWEV_jMkqEMjzpFCil5AmaavOs1oPPnRREYBgq8mPtUjvt8ITMYmAczcc_uPQCBuzEleii9OoreSQ7zeymuTgG1ZXdObIObCtaH-4Y_bCZfsWoMTrYROmkOtpZabisutbgBabBwUtlbx4/s1600/DSC_4328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; height: 388px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 431px;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWEV_jMkqEMjzpFCil5AmaavOs1oPPnRREYBgq8mPtUjvt8ITMYmAczcc_uPQCBuzEleii9OoreSQ7zeymuTgG1ZXdObIObCtaH-4Y_bCZfsWoMTrYROmkOtpZabisutbgBabBwUtlbx4/s320/DSC_4328.JPG" width="320" /><br />
<b>Sweet Pork</b> 3 lbs pork roast 8 oz Pace salsa 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 can of Coke Put the roast and all ingredients in Crockpot. Cook on low for 8 hours. Shred the pork. </a><br />
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<b><i>Tomatillo Ranch Dressing </i></b><br />
1/2 packet of dry buttermilk ranch dressing<br />
1/2 cup buttermilk<br />
1/2 cup mayo<br />
1-2 large tomatillos<br />
1/2 tsp crushed garlic<br />
1/2 bunch cilantro<br />
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper<br />
1 tsp lime juice<br />
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Put all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth<br />
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<b><i>Cilantro Lime Rice</i></b><br />
1 Tbl oil<br />
2 cups rice (3 cups water)<br />
cilantro finely chopped<br />
Juice from 1 lime<br />
1 tsp cruched garlic<br />
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Heat oil in a large skillet. Add rice, cilantro, and garlic. Sautee 3-5 mins. Add water and lime juice and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 mins.<br />
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When we create our salads we use homemade tortillas, or the ones that are pre rolled and you cook yourselves! Then we add romaine lettuce, (NOT iceberg) Sweet pork, rice, black beans, fresh pico de gallo, sour cream, guacamole, cheese, the dressing, and THEN top it up with tortilla strips!! SO yummy!! And if you have never eaten at one of these places before, you are missing out!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-80485318863240457422013-06-27T09:10:00.001-07:002013-06-27T09:10:29.795-07:00What's Cookin' Wednesday!It is officially SUMMER!! WOO HOO!! Time to break out the pools, slip n slides, water balloons, BBQ grills and FRESH FRUIT!! One of my favorite parts of summer are all of the wonderful fruits that are in season! We have been enjoying doing things on our Summer Fun list! Our "Water Wednesday" yesterday got rained out, but we were still able to get wet while chasing our garbage cans down the street in the torrential downpour! Good times!! But we all try to eat healthier in the summer time, right? Now that it's time for swimsuits and shorts, we all try to get rid of the extra winter weight, blah blah blah.. But it's Summer for goodness sakes!! Everyone gets a cheat day! And last night, we had a CHEAT NIGHT! <br />
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<b><i>Luther Burger</i></b><br />
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Don't judge. I know what you are thinking. DISGUSTING!! You are WRONG! I love trying new exotic foods! The first time I tried this I could not believe how yummy it was!! And yes, those are donuts! But you have to use use light and fluffy donuts like Krispy Kremes. Here's the recipe. I DARE you to try it and not love it!!<br />
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2 KK donuts<br />
red onion<br />
1 fried egg<br />
bacon<br />
cheddar cheese<br />
grilled hamburger.<br />
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Assemble as you would like. I put ketchup on mine and Captain Hunk did mayo and BBQ sauce! I can't wait to hear your reviews!!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-54846699644422010252013-06-19T06:35:00.001-07:002013-06-19T06:35:27.158-07:00What's Cookin' Wednesday and Giveaway Winner Details!!I apologize for not announcing which item won on Monday. We have been a little preoccupied! However, it was a direct TIE between the Ninja and the Sanuks!! I am SO excited about this and SO excited that so many of you voted!! I decided the way this will work is, if your name is drawn, you will win the item that you voted for!! Sound good? Also, you have until the end of the day TODAY (June 19) to share my page again to have your name entered twice! Gives you a better chance at winning!! You MUST share it from my (Jack's) Facebook page, so I know exactly who shared it again! Also, I'm pretty sure I have everyone but just in case, if you entered the drawing would you PLEASE send me your name and email address? I want to make sure I don't miss anyone! Also, so I can have it on hand for future give aways!! You can email me at chelseaheapphotography@gmail.com The winner will be announced at 12 pm eastern time tomorrow!! Now onto WCW!!<br />
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<b>Green Chile Chicken over Rice</b><br />
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2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast cut into cubes<br />
2 cans Cream of Mushroom soup<br />
2 cups light Sour Cream<br />
3 4oz cans chopped green chiles<br />
s&p to taste<br />
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Mix everything together, Spread into a 9x13 baking pan and bake at 350 for 45 mins. let it stand for about 5 to 10 mins. Serve over rice.<br />
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This recipe is so easy and SO yummy! You cane asily divide in half for smaller portions. Also, we like to add 2 oz's chopped jalepeno's for extra spice!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-83816515808477287502013-06-13T19:06:00.001-07:002013-06-14T06:54:11.783-07:00 Few of Jack's Favorite Things! (And What's Cooking Wednesday)So I have compiled a list of 15 of my favorite things! Now obviously my Family and church related stuff are at the top of the list, but on THIS list are my favorite material items. Things I use in my everyday life! Here they are, in no particular order.<br />
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<strong><em><u>LA's Totally Awesome</u></em></strong><br />
I have blogged about this before, but this is an all purpose cleaner that I use on EVERYTHING! Literally. It will get out nearly any stain from the carpet. Even ground in eyeliner...I use it to get the grease off my stove and teapot. I use it in the bathroom and to mop my floor. This stuff is magic. For real!! And I buy it at the dollar store.<br />
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<strong><em><u>Minced Garlic</u></em></strong><br />
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I love this stuff! It is so yummy and so much easier then peeling and pressing garlic! Whenever I need garlic in something (which is almost everything) I just throw in a spoonful!<br />
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<strong><em><u>Pampered Chef Chopper</u></em></strong></div>
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Need I say more?? Chops everything! I have gone through 3 of them in the last 10 years</div>
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<strong><em><u>Nikon D300 with 50mm 1.8 lens</u></em></strong></div>
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I am hoping to soon get a new camera body, so this baby can be my backup! But 98% of the time, you will se me with THIS lens. It is my baby!</div>
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<strong><em><u>Crockpot</u></em></strong></div>
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I own two of these and I use them both. I can't say enough about my crockpots. If you would like to read more or get some great recipes click <a href="http://thehomethatjacksbuilding.blogspot.com/2011/07/preparing-for-crock-pot-cooking.html" target="_blank">here</a> </div>
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<strong><em><u>Pampered Chef Scraper</u></em></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGky1HEPVQ1ANenSDE5VWQiVMawE4FOue15ws3SnkNmn6fjNCM4AtywREAdbTsEbZMyQ5wJA450Q0g6ToAs3rlqSDbGNASdT1OfkWqw4owbJKZjRbXUOzJbp-EmLEIhznNds1DkanaXNg/s1600/AAAAArB3JK4AAAAAAVS9Uw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGky1HEPVQ1ANenSDE5VWQiVMawE4FOue15ws3SnkNmn6fjNCM4AtywREAdbTsEbZMyQ5wJA450Q0g6ToAs3rlqSDbGNASdT1OfkWqw4owbJKZjRbXUOzJbp-EmLEIhznNds1DkanaXNg/s320/AAAAArB3JK4AAAAAAVS9Uw.jpg" /></a>This little thing comes in handy for all sorts of things! I mainly use it to scrape the extra dough off my counter after making cinnamon rolls or pie crust. So much easier then scrubbing with a rag! Tonight at dinner I used it to scoop up some salad dressing that had spilled!!</div>
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<strong><em><u>Costco Salad Spinner with Mandolin</u></em></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14rPEIz0_1CPyhy-k3nU_VQw4E2JSxbLoj6XQZMOoge2hmYqBNRhYAPRaE7eaX-mOx1Xkflf5BdPYUVgvzlz7exyMdF4VJi_K-E9PA5sqEo6EYDe-kAT3Vxxa-UppVWuHuw9wVhj14MQ/s1600/costco+salad+spin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14rPEIz0_1CPyhy-k3nU_VQw4E2JSxbLoj6XQZMOoge2hmYqBNRhYAPRaE7eaX-mOx1Xkflf5BdPYUVgvzlz7exyMdF4VJi_K-E9PA5sqEo6EYDe-kAT3Vxxa-UppVWuHuw9wVhj14MQ/s320/costco+salad+spin.jpg" /></a>This is pretty explanatory. We eat LOTS of salads in our house! This makes the washing, slicing and dicing SO much easier!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZg7Yi0LT14Dusp1ma8HcjUjpK8WIJXfFwvBoBGBa69HTKvDt-jEJ6MVIWDZAWqG0ZTxUgi5i9XshJdXC9fY_L-A5AUDh1nw4EEFO3WohG4-Mjjxu-3XW78niq3d8kEwm1wgIf392dx8/s1600/dc17_05202010175218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZg7Yi0LT14Dusp1ma8HcjUjpK8WIJXfFwvBoBGBa69HTKvDt-jEJ6MVIWDZAWqG0ZTxUgi5i9XshJdXC9fY_L-A5AUDh1nw4EEFO3WohG4-Mjjxu-3XW78niq3d8kEwm1wgIf392dx8/s320/dc17_05202010175218.jpg" /></a><strong><em><u></u></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><u>Dyson DC 17</u></em></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYGv9tP6UJHCyR_uxc1uXlhdeqwZtcdaufS3YfOflB7efcTpPVz4ng4QOTLiTsagavf6QcyZZhwKIsGGsVudPTO61F1BlzN75RyL_l4huh5lf4Ua35CEQQuWpQc-lQPuQrCwBUB22P5M/s1600/h19blue1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYGv9tP6UJHCyR_uxc1uXlhdeqwZtcdaufS3YfOflB7efcTpPVz4ng4QOTLiTsagavf6QcyZZhwKIsGGsVudPTO61F1BlzN75RyL_l4huh5lf4Ua35CEQQuWpQc-lQPuQrCwBUB22P5M/s320/h19blue1.jpg" /></a>I have owned two Dysons. I used to sell them at Sears and only ONCE did I see one get returned. Reason being their carpet was too long. I sweep and vacuum with this thing! The hose suction is incredible and I can vacuum the stairs all the way to the top without carrying the vacuum up with me. I will ONLY ever own a Dyson.</div>
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<strong><em><u>Bath and Body Works Hand Sanitizer with Rubber Key Chain</u></em></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFq30hsnGlAV95wTA0k8ZKO__Df6DZTcPX1Tmy9bO6EPDA1Tyz8An7_RbAxiGC4tOJJ82Yg4Uhmt9OkhN8xp3bvvsUygrexhOyZ0y9aHwk0qaGtkx5uUKewYSUkI54-qohELLsXbfAIg/s1600/ninja-blender-seen-on-tv-mdn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFq30hsnGlAV95wTA0k8ZKO__Df6DZTcPX1Tmy9bO6EPDA1Tyz8An7_RbAxiGC4tOJJ82Yg4Uhmt9OkhN8xp3bvvsUygrexhOyZ0y9aHwk0qaGtkx5uUKewYSUkI54-qohELLsXbfAIg/s320/ninja-blender-seen-on-tv-mdn.jpg" /></a>I have one of these that hangs off my purse and another on our pool bag. With a five year old little boy, this is very necessary!</div>
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<strong><em><u>Kitchen Ninja Blender</u></em></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWoxRA418Fz-Ikh_iTPe6Q3J7UqIqnJQvh052dlWfUuVYOLXA4ZsSXhUDrZIilHz5ik3ZNv_WMzZDgCcrXHb14NucyTczV_sxp3pNu2PHlPesVw23x1pfClcHsYWN0LyFwn66MNNOUEWQ/s1600/SBS-217309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWoxRA418Fz-Ikh_iTPe6Q3J7UqIqnJQvh052dlWfUuVYOLXA4ZsSXhUDrZIilHz5ik3ZNv_WMzZDgCcrXHb14NucyTczV_sxp3pNu2PHlPesVw23x1pfClcHsYWN0LyFwn66MNNOUEWQ/s1600/SBS-217309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWoxRA418Fz-Ikh_iTPe6Q3J7UqIqnJQvh052dlWfUuVYOLXA4ZsSXhUDrZIilHz5ik3ZNv_WMzZDgCcrXHb14NucyTczV_sxp3pNu2PHlPesVw23x1pfClcHsYWN0LyFwn66MNNOUEWQ/s320/SBS-217309.jpg" /></a>I LOVE my kitchen ninja!! It has three layers of blades so it doesn't miss a thing!! We even made fluffy snowcones with it today!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQG5oal9CuihFKBPPqd_uaIQaDFuNpt_dqF8e8y2dhpuWoY7MwySUlRLIlME26M2ZmCm7APRBD25K53cDSiwZIt2WGE7ZDcPLUiXFPQttdeLt1UoLiXdCvSU2myiVV9NCugSNlfnKNVI/s1600/turbie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQG5oal9CuihFKBPPqd_uaIQaDFuNpt_dqF8e8y2dhpuWoY7MwySUlRLIlME26M2ZmCm7APRBD25K53cDSiwZIt2WGE7ZDcPLUiXFPQttdeLt1UoLiXdCvSU2myiVV9NCugSNlfnKNVI/s1600/turbie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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</a><strong><em><u>Soft Bristle Brush</u></em></strong><br />
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I use this to add the perfect amount of body to my hair! No back combing!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBmHuo1XyW19Wd9FIHEb4jokWAXqNV33jzG35tku6U5om5Se_GxBdHgW1ij9zDWWjwUjXPN5ronZtEgTPyqGYIl30sB34FY5BQwGpTDHBMEbXORXMU5JO9NeW2lvQS8d_LCyA1SmZ26s/s1600/white_short_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBmHuo1XyW19Wd9FIHEb4jokWAXqNV33jzG35tku6U5om5Se_GxBdHgW1ij9zDWWjwUjXPN5ronZtEgTPyqGYIl30sB34FY5BQwGpTDHBMEbXORXMU5JO9NeW2lvQS8d_LCyA1SmZ26s/s320/white_short_400.jpg" /></a><strong><em><u>Half Tee</u></em></strong></div>
Thanks to these amazing wonder shirts, I can still wear the cute stylish clothes, but be modest at the same time, without all of the extra bulk!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYCQ_Y0BMokKuCQLBsbVsqGN14GII4WP3UXll4dvSVy0fIzxtPSRmkffOybRafUAVPC90jB5hPJYryncX-cO-Sgn9ujS9YGcFJauz4BdxpfJs46leuhR2GFvtdjUe5Qqu_REokZiRz6w/s1600/300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYCQ_Y0BMokKuCQLBsbVsqGN14GII4WP3UXll4dvSVy0fIzxtPSRmkffOybRafUAVPC90jB5hPJYryncX-cO-Sgn9ujS9YGcFJauz4BdxpfJs46leuhR2GFvtdjUe5Qqu_REokZiRz6w/s1600/300.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong><em><u>Natural Ice Chapstick</u></em></strong>This stuff is hard to find! It has been my favorite since high school and you can ALWAYS find it in my purse! Thanks to Amazon I can buy it in bulk for CHEAP!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fj3fWn4cvXQ8UX0KsHNPD6xXyvKYRSTu8eaJCQzx40DxnkdSfHZdntmKFomiiX1eUS1GtgPWQvKJMh0YvoDWRZTghVxhfsQLffgnPQLazQzK-rbQMUgZrcuZaYpuR9Ho3BNXWTpYhYA/s1600/00859664000105_full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fj3fWn4cvXQ8UX0KsHNPD6xXyvKYRSTu8eaJCQzx40DxnkdSfHZdntmKFomiiX1eUS1GtgPWQvKJMh0YvoDWRZTghVxhfsQLffgnPQLazQzK-rbQMUgZrcuZaYpuR9Ho3BNXWTpYhYA/s1600/00859664000105_full.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong><em><u>Blue Bird Flour</u></em></strong><br />
If you are a baker then you NEED this!! This is the softest flour. I use it for my cinnamon rolls so they come out so light and fluffy. Unfortunately this flour is milled in Colorado and can only be found in the surrounding states. Thankfully I have sisters who are willing to ship it to me across the country!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVpz4mUBsNwElo4NPF5n5St5GlbIvolh1yL7QnD2vPXYF1wS29snwW2D1XWGLeh_r7mw7VbtXopUVFGMSaJf0Je1MtGezKiuFodnHqVitG3WYdj_mC1GHeqj1pDOg8SukV608wb-jZvZU/s1600/imagesCA2HAT0V.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVpz4mUBsNwElo4NPF5n5St5GlbIvolh1yL7QnD2vPXYF1wS29snwW2D1XWGLeh_r7mw7VbtXopUVFGMSaJf0Je1MtGezKiuFodnHqVitG3WYdj_mC1GHeqj1pDOg8SukV608wb-jZvZU/s1600/imagesCA2HAT0V.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong><em><u>Sanuks (it's not a shoe, it's a sandal) :)</u></em></strong><br />
Mo<strong>st comfortable summer time shoes!! I own this exact pair and the best part is they match with EVERYTHING!</strong><br />
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<strong><em><u>Turbie Twist Hair Towel</u></em></strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3EuhPMqagvKgki-gmcwDEL3vHo07NHWx7MpB04ZXWPxA9keOIX1KdrpxFul_9JJnZIoa7iscgcIsiPhyphenhyphen_GWlocxrMbEwTkhUhqZxnIDBvlVnTSyzJFiSARN5xjd3DMaeugkai3Mn5kA/s1600/turbie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3EuhPMqagvKgki-gmcwDEL3vHo07NHWx7MpB04ZXWPxA9keOIX1KdrpxFul_9JJnZIoa7iscgcIsiPhyphenhyphen_GWlocxrMbEwTkhUhqZxnIDBvlVnTSyzJFiSARN5xjd3DMaeugkai3Mn5kA/s320/turbie.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
My Grandma Peggy made me my very first hair towel. They are so nice and convenient!! I now own these ones. They are microfiber and work GREAT! you can buy these exact ones at Wal-Mart.<br />
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Blogger was giving me fits today, so I apologize that the pics and such are all scattered. Now that you have seen my favorite things list, how would you like to win one of these items?!? All you have to do is vote for which one of these items is YOUR favorite (excluding the camera and dyson)! You can vote by leaving a comment here on the blog or comment on the post on FB! Once you have voted, share my page to be entered into the drawing!! The Voting will go until Sunday 6/16 at Midnight eastern time!!! DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY!!!!!!<br />
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Now, onto What's Cooking Wednesday!! Last night we had a full cajun dinner!! I made the EASIEST salmon!! Are you ready?<br />
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Salmon filets (how ever many you are cooking)<br />
melted butter<br />
cajun seasoning<br />
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Rub the salmon with the butter and then rub in the seasoning. In a skillet, cook on each side for 6 mins, or until fish flakes easily! So yummy, so easy!!<br />
<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a><br />
<br />Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-48191462705378510282013-06-06T07:58:00.000-07:002013-06-06T08:00:25.340-07:00What's Cooking Wednesday!! (On Thursday...)I have gotten so many different emails asking things like "what is a typical dinner you make?" or what is something your Family eats often?" I have decided to have a new segment called "What's Cooking Wednesday" Where I will share with you recipes and pics of a meal we ate in our home that week! Sometimes they will be new things we have tried and sometimes they will be Family Favorites! <br />
Most of you know that my Family recently made a cross country move. That last week in our old house, the week we spent on the road, and our first few nights here we ate out EVERY night. Literally. GROSS. Some people love eating out because it's easy and convenient, but it can get SO expensive and depending on what you are eating, SO bad for you! <br />
One of Troop's favorite places to eat at is Panda Express. You know you love it too. And what do you order when you go there? The Orange Chicken. I knew it. After all of the eating out that we had to do, I thought it would be fun to find healthier versions/make at home versions of our favorite eat out food. This week we did Chinese. Both of the chicken recipes I found on Pinterest and are made in the crockpot. The Fried Rice is my own, very simple recipe. Please excuse my cell phone quality pictures. By the time dinner was ready I was starved and too lazy to run grab my camera! :) Click on the links for recipes!<br />
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<a href="http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-detail.asp?recipe=2034705" target="_blank">Bourbon Chicken</a><br />
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I loved this! It ended up being my fave. You can even add a few sesame seeds to make it more traditional!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoBwqq5BE13Rm7otjVioyhxSJLVBS3EJhQHPgqpEK5U3cIBAC3MPqtzXJq5QB7zA4ZWItQKD52QYFCVZXCahGnuod-w38O7OkBSLdgbHDmMvWIh_GoKUglH-H8Op3ZwqqIJqM83H4czo/s1600/Photo+1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoBwqq5BE13Rm7otjVioyhxSJLVBS3EJhQHPgqpEK5U3cIBAC3MPqtzXJq5QB7zA4ZWItQKD52QYFCVZXCahGnuod-w38O7OkBSLdgbHDmMvWIh_GoKUglH-H8Op3ZwqqIJqM83H4czo/s320/Photo+1.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://keeprecipes.com/recipe/howtocook/six-sisters-stuff-slow-cooker-orange-chicken-0" target="_blank">Orange Chicken</a><br />
I found my orange chicken to have a bitter aftertaste. I think the juice may have overcooked. I would suggest mixing all of the ingredients except the OJ, and add that in the last hour. That should eliminate any bitter flavor.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf6JI439aVX-ygBXOmwyxYeCs8zFG4F3ogaIeg23ti8VZNcmtqJtvRNCW4d9_XsDSRQKoQxAOQ67YnVwxKPf5CiBJJ3Oq7tM47sqZ7wIOqgdXNlxgCEZG4wFs_QioUZHOA7oNqWC916Gs/s1600/Photo+2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf6JI439aVX-ygBXOmwyxYeCs8zFG4F3ogaIeg23ti8VZNcmtqJtvRNCW4d9_XsDSRQKoQxAOQ67YnVwxKPf5CiBJJ3Oq7tM47sqZ7wIOqgdXNlxgCEZG4wFs_QioUZHOA7oNqWC916Gs/s320/Photo+2.jpg" /></a><br />
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<u>Fried Rice</u><br />
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I use long grain brown rice and follow the package instructions. You will also need:<br />
2 Tblsp Olive Oil<br />
1-2 cups frozen Peas & Carrots<br />
2 eggs<br />
1/4 Soy or Teriyaki Sauce<br />
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Cook the rice as instructed. Add Olive oil and peas & carrots to a skillet and cook for 3 mins, stirring constantly. Add the rice. Whip the two eggs together and add to the mixture. Sautee' until the eggs are fully cooked.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqa39Ku5_MCR4ESChyQmv3LBU-wuE-rqnC6NBLzKwn5gP4salUUWNQcxW-fX25BXATkrtinsCLLm_Q5-0GFUeb66PBAqQ0_HQFpcp8G5gncTEKbGxH4-6JukQ2F-_-6EuTKfd8tiEQmIA/s1600/Photo+3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqa39Ku5_MCR4ESChyQmv3LBU-wuE-rqnC6NBLzKwn5gP4salUUWNQcxW-fX25BXATkrtinsCLLm_Q5-0GFUeb66PBAqQ0_HQFpcp8G5gncTEKbGxH4-6JukQ2F-_-6EuTKfd8tiEQmIA/s320/Photo+3.jpg" /></a><br />
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With the exception of the bitter orange flavor, the overall turnout was great! Most importantly Troop ate his ALL GONE!! <br />
Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-631236444808858672013-06-03T14:18:00.002-07:002013-06-03T14:18:17.192-07:00Putting Pinterest Pins to Use!!We ALL have a Pinterest, right? If not, get on board! :) How many of us have 100+ amazing recipes, DIY tutorials, activities for kids, etc..just sitting on our boards. "Oh that looks amazing! I'm gonna pin it, probably never actually do it, but I am gonna pin it, just in case!" Sound familiar? When I first started following Pinterest I was really good at trying 1 new recipe or idea a week. Then life got in the way. Well now it's Summer time. The kids are home from school and they get bored..fast. So rather then letting them sit on front of the tv ALL DAY, plan some fun activities, using ideas that you have found on Pinterest!! I saw this really cute idea where everyday was a different theme! I tried to download her little list, but you had to take one ridiculous step after another...NOT COOL! So, I decided to create my own and share it with you all! And YES, it is a FREE printable!<br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/145536782/Summer-Fun" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Summer Fun on Scribd">Summer Fun</a></div>
<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="undefined" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_20166" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/145536782/content?start_page=1&view_mode=scroll&show_recommendations=true" width="100%"></iframe><br />
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Click on the title "Summer Fun" and simply follow the download instructions. Print it off and hang it on the fridge! I sat down and organized stuff 3 weeks out. You don't have to plan ahead that far out, but I like to know what we are doing. I decided to make your first week easy and share with you what we will be doing for our first week!<br />
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<b>Week 1</b><br />
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Make Something Monday- Make a treat or a craft that you have pinned! We are making <a href="http://www.averiecooks.com/2013/05/strawberry-sweet-rolls-with-vanilla-cream-cheese-glaze.html" target="_blank">Strawberry Sweet Rolls</a>!! YUM!<br />
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Take a Trip Tuesday- Take a trip to the Library, the park, or a free museum! You may be surprised how many there are!<br />
We are going to visit our new library and get library cards!<br />
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Wet Wednesday- This is pretty self explanatory! There are SO many options for water fun! This week we are playing with the sprinkler under the trampoline!<br />
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Thinking Thursday- There are so many fun, at home science experiments! My little Troop loves learning and watching how things work! This may become our favoite day! This week we are making <a href="http://chemistry.about.com/od/demonstrationsexperiments/ss/bounceball.htm" target="_blank">Bouncy Balls</a>!!<br />
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Fun Friday- Let the kids pick something fun they want to do or just pick a fun activity you have pinned! This week we are making a movie theater! Complete with all the fixins'!! <br />
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Have fun utilizing those boards that are filling up! Can't wait to hear some of the fun things ya'll will be doing!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-91917589868422848842013-06-01T10:10:00.000-07:002013-06-01T18:12:25.347-07:00Tiger Stripes<b>“Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body." ~Elizabeth Stone</b><br>
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A couple of months ago I was in the bathroom getting ready and Payson came in to chat with me. My arms were up in my hair trying to fluff and volumize. My shirt had rolled up and exposed my stomach. Payson was standing in front of me and he softly rubbed one finger across my belly. "Mom, what are those stripes on your belly?" Stripes? I had never thought of, or heard them referred to as stripes. This was the first thing that came to mind. "Well Bubs, those are Mommy's tiger stripes. I earned them for being so strong and brave like a tiger while you were growing in my belly. Those stripes were my reward for helping you grow healthy and strong before you were born." Silence. Then, his eyes grew big as it sank in. "That's AWESOME!! My Mom has TIGER stripes!!" Then he ran out of the bathroom. As I finished getting ready I thought about that quick conversation and how in less than 30 seconds I made him think that those "stripes" were not the gross scars of pregnancy, but the honorable marks of carrying a child. ONE child. My WHOLE life, amongst being a country music singer, a psychologist, etc, The only REAL thing I wanted to be when I grew up was a Mom. I would have 5 kids by the time I turned 30. With my Prince Charming by my side, we would raise a big Family. My kids would have lots of siblings just like I did. Best friends for life! I never planned on the pain of infertility to come stabbing its way through my life. Lots of years trying to help our Family grow and two miscarriages were not in MY plans. Then I started thinking about my siblings. One sister who has had multiple miscarriages and was told after her 2nd and 3rd baby that she would probably not be able to have anymore. Now she has FIVE beautiful girls. Another sister who for 8 years has unexplainably been unable to get pregnant, but has now, through adoption, been blessed with the sweetest little miracle. I think of these 6 little girls and my heart swells with love. My heart. I think of my sister and the stress and fear she went through and the love that she (and we all) had for her, and all of these little ones before they were born. Our hearts swelled with love, stretched, to make room to love each new one who came along. Tiger Stripes. On our hearts. <br>
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<b>“When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child.” — Sophia Loren</b><br>
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When I think of women, like my Mom, who have raised a lot of children, I no longer look at the "crows feet" around their eyes and think of them as a sign of aging. I think of them as the "tiger stripes" they earned from all of the constant worry, the staying up late waiting for kids to come home, the helping with home work, putting a bandage on a scrape or a kiss on the forhead trying to help mend a broken heart, when in fact her heart is also broken because yours is broken. Once you become a mother, every selfish bone in your body disappears, or at least it should. You find yourself thinking of your child before yourself and are CONSTANTLY trying to keep them safe. Tiger stripes. On our eyes.<br>
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I will be 30 this year. I don't have 5 kids like I had planned. But, I do have my Prince Charming and we have ONE amazing little boy who I wouldn't trade for a house full of kids. Someday, he may get that brother or sister, and someday, my sister my bear a child of her own. But for now, I am grateful for my "Tiger Stripes". For the physical ones that you can see on my body, but most importantly, for the ones on my heart. Any human can grow a child inside of them, but it takes someone with a real open heart to truly love someone more than themselves.<br>
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png"></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-64728404383815067242012-09-24T13:35:00.001-07:002012-09-24T15:31:40.132-07:00EXTREME Frustration...with some Creamy Taco Soup!!My original plan had been to get the first new Blog Post up on September 1st. Then Blogger decided to run some updates and yada yada yada...So now, I'm home from vacation and Blogger is up and running again, so I decided to share the recipe that I have cooking in my Crockpot RIGHT NOW!! As we all know, it is officially Fall!! Probabaly one of my FAVE seasons. The leaves start changing colors, it's cool enough for jeans, boots and sweaters, I can start burning my Fall <a href="https://kristibrizuela.scentsy.us/Scentsy/Home" target="_blank">Scentsy</a> scents, AND it means the beginning of SOUP season!! I LOVE soup! I love making it and eating it! I expecially love finding new soup recipes! The recipe I'm going to share with you is a "I was craving some soup last year and didn't want to go to the store, so I threw what I had in the Crockpot" type of recipe! It turned out SUPER fantastic! Captain Hunk and Troop both loved it, as well as the friends we were feeding that night! I LOVE it when that happens. The even better part is you probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry/freezer!! Unfortunately, I don't have pictures today. :(<br />
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<b>Creamy Taco Soup</b><br />
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<br />
1 lb cooked ground beef<br />
1 20 oz can tomato sauce<br />
1 14.5 oz can Beef Broth<br />
2 15 oz cans Pinto Beans<br />
1 15 oz can Black Beans<br />
1 4 oz can chopped green chiles<br />
1-2 cups frozen sweet corn<br />
1 medium onion chopped<br />
4 oz Cream Cheese<br />
Salt<br />
Pepper<br />
Season Salt<br />
Ground Cumin<br />
Garlic Salt<br />
Chili Powder<br />
Cayenne Pepper<br />
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As usual, I don't measure my spices, so just taste as you go until it is to your liking! Add ALL of the ingredients EXCEPT the Cream Cheese. (Refer back to our Preparing for Crockpot cooking tips <a href="http://thehomethatjacksbuilding.blogspot.com/2011/07/preparing-for-crock-pot-cooking.html" target="_blank">Here</a>) Let it cook in the Crockpot on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cream cheese 30 mins before serving. Serve with tortillas or bread.<br />
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Super easy and Super yummy!!! Promise!!<br />
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Stay tuned later this week for a recipe for Cafe Rio/ Costa Vida salads!!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-173286457475330432012-02-16T14:16:00.000-08:002012-02-16T14:16:10.181-08:00Sweats, Slippers, No Makeup and Homemade Hot Cocoa!!Last night I was going over my calendar. Everyday seemed to be full! Photoshoots, Army Ball, Preschool, Dentist, Visiting Teachers, Meetings...I could go on! However, today was COMPLETELY OPEN!! I decided to take advantage of it! I showered and got right back into clean PJ's! It has been a fantastic day. I picked up a litte bit, danced with Troop, edited photos and made bread! I suppose I could have taken a nap...NAW! As I was editing photos I suddenly realized how cold I was!! The downstairs of our house is an ice box. I even had the space heater blowing at my feet! STILL COLD! I decided I needed Hot Cocoa. Troop wanted some too! We are a little picky in this house and prefer our Cocoa mix homemade. We ran out a couple weeks ago and made the mistake of buying a box of it instead of ingredients to make more. It was just NOT the same! As I was making the cocoa mix I had an idea to share it with the rest of you! I got the recipe from my Mom so I quick text her for permission and she agreed! Thanks Mom! This recipe is SUPER easy and only has 5 ingredients! Here they are:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2R5MOzDaUHhq_MoDDqW1um834NfDSr3-_M57pV-9ZDhuwY9W7fmKGiswQ13BU9n0u-oBV3Wgngp1R04ewoMP7kAy8bLF9EX-X8ZOpN0xPetFrmGe6nCyZGvlOEu4pLUuB6b0pFTXw_c/s1600/DSC_2288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2R5MOzDaUHhq_MoDDqW1um834NfDSr3-_M57pV-9ZDhuwY9W7fmKGiswQ13BU9n0u-oBV3Wgngp1R04ewoMP7kAy8bLF9EX-X8ZOpN0xPetFrmGe6nCyZGvlOEu4pLUuB6b0pFTXw_c/s320/DSC_2288.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
8 Qt Powdered Milk<br />
1 lb Powdered Chocolate Milk Mix<br />
11 oz Powdered Cremora<br />
1 cup Powdered sugar<br />
Salt (just a dash)<br />
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Mix it all together in a BIG bowl. I dump everything into my biggest mixxing bowl, put on the lid and shake it!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84wnbyUtjQuEuXmtwGHG1q3fwvd8vgTg76oUFQ-XNaNcz-GsPPsAZ7I1imt23WPM4Qptxy6db_KaE0gllquKBfDd0vNVv2ARhUqMkn9ACZFLRPX6G_aFWjSxdXePIQXMSCsi8kiK0FSU/s1600/DSC_2289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84wnbyUtjQuEuXmtwGHG1q3fwvd8vgTg76oUFQ-XNaNcz-GsPPsAZ7I1imt23WPM4Qptxy6db_KaE0gllquKBfDd0vNVv2ARhUqMkn9ACZFLRPX6G_aFWjSxdXePIQXMSCsi8kiK0FSU/s320/DSC_2289.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Here is my recipe for it! I LOVE this book! My Mom made it. It's full of recipes from 5 generations of my Family!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ZpOb7uM2SV4f7O5dJ344FTIGTsmeTX5V1hM25cvRjTNw2IzJNVOSV7EV5OK3SoQbbGB_YcGKP63YBLFawFRE1jRYAPGryZfQxtWC8kD6hbUNJfKd9juFw80ya1zdsPLKyXR3_5FaC9U/s1600/DSC_2290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ZpOb7uM2SV4f7O5dJ344FTIGTsmeTX5V1hM25cvRjTNw2IzJNVOSV7EV5OK3SoQbbGB_YcGKP63YBLFawFRE1jRYAPGryZfQxtWC8kD6hbUNJfKd9juFw80ya1zdsPLKyXR3_5FaC9U/s320/DSC_2290.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><br />
When you finish it, store it in an airtight container! Now, I DO NOT drink coffee. However, I LOVE flavored coffee creamers in my cocoa. I'm usually a hazelnut with a little caramel flavoring kind of girl BUT I recently discovered a Cinnamon Vanilla. It is amazing! There are so many flavors you can choose from too! I prefer the liquid creamers over the powders! Captain Hunks specialty is a scoop of ice cream and a candycane Hershey's kiss!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-71545027203818461812012-02-02T09:44:00.000-08:002012-02-02T09:44:30.449-08:00Adorable Magnet Boards!I can't take credit for this one because I actually got the idea from a friend and "Jack" follower! As soon as she showed me, I knew I wanted to make one!! So we had a girls craft day and got it done! It was pretty inexpensive to make too because I had everything I needed except the frame and the metal! What you need to make this:<br />
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An old frame<br />
A sheet of metal cut to the size of the opening of the frame<br />
Spray adhesive<br />
Paint/brushes<br />
Fabric<br />
Magnets<br />
Hot glue gun<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_j2-s3wb78K-d0EZIAMDu32TC1O8gtfBziPyWNjMJhDSOwJ939UwD8bhlYinwJMqYe7v37EWt2f-KBh00sLxmRf89e2rq9zYNMCfQqQhYAnb7x5OO5evVszv6Ka6lVH4uGfR9nowhbgY/s1600/DSC_2143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_j2-s3wb78K-d0EZIAMDu32TC1O8gtfBziPyWNjMJhDSOwJ939UwD8bhlYinwJMqYe7v37EWt2f-KBh00sLxmRf89e2rq9zYNMCfQqQhYAnb7x5OO5evVszv6Ka6lVH4uGfR9nowhbgY/s320/DSC_2143.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><br />
I got 12x24 sheets of metal at Ace. They do a Military discount so it was the cheapest place for me! :) I had tin cutters so I used them to cut our metal to the sizes we needed. Be safe and wear gloves because the metal gets sharp! First I painted my frame. While it was drying I sprayed the glue (that Elmer's spray glue is amazing stuff!) directly onto my metal and promptly wrapped the fabric around it. I glued down the excess fabric on the back. While that was drying I applied hot glue to my magnets and stuck one to the back of each piece of make up.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNn3GF2SYJ99YZVnyzJX-Oro_cxIzR-56Hvha5g3Wg5Z1seDzpwtr2DT5Ufd7hasTuLe6-iSJ1BDyecgSh5Ej0zeRNbBFbX-KSiWGosOJru3ut8cN_vWfKMsjzOKDsDR_mWOvm9w1iewk/s1600/DSC_2144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNn3GF2SYJ99YZVnyzJX-Oro_cxIzR-56Hvha5g3Wg5Z1seDzpwtr2DT5Ufd7hasTuLe6-iSJ1BDyecgSh5Ej0zeRNbBFbX-KSiWGosOJru3ut8cN_vWfKMsjzOKDsDR_mWOvm9w1iewk/s320/DSC_2144.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><br />
When I put it all back together, this is what I had!! Isn't it adorable?! No more messy makeup bag! Since I used hot glue, the magnets easily peel off so you can put them on your new makeup! You can take this idea and use it for pretty much anything! Another friend had an idea to use it for nail polish! It cleans out space in your drawers and gives you a pretty picture to hang on your wall! By the way, my brush holder is thee top piece of a plastic wine glass that I had in my cupbord! I'm thinking about cutting out my first initial with my Cricut and putting it on the cup!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNqD6VhVINJjGjqOloj2baJ3l5EmUUsjBsG4B7jQrrDC-1MMFStQD0Vcf6-CaDqrSfgRFLMnD25RptWY1rAE1j14H4l_pAulFKVqDFMtGVwty6Wy8CnkyOdCl_1oMdVkn36CP2KjONxU/s1600/DSC_2148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNqD6VhVINJjGjqOloj2baJ3l5EmUUsjBsG4B7jQrrDC-1MMFStQD0Vcf6-CaDqrSfgRFLMnD25RptWY1rAE1j14H4l_pAulFKVqDFMtGVwty6Wy8CnkyOdCl_1oMdVkn36CP2KjONxU/s320/DSC_2148.JPG" width="297" /></a></div><br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-86637180755958457442012-01-25T13:41:00.000-08:002012-01-25T13:41:02.154-08:00Saving Money on Foaming Hand Soaps!Like many people I know, I keep a cabinet STOCKED full of my favorite brand and scents of anti bacteria foaming hand soaps. When my favorite store has their big 75% off sale, I go! Sadly though, I missed the last one! :( Suddenly I realized one of our bathroom soaps and our kitchen soap was almost gone and I had already used the last of my stock pile! BUMMER!! But then I remembered "I have the foam pumps!" All it take is about 2 table spoons of any liquid soap and water to create a FULL bottle of foaming soap! Just put the soap in the bottle, add the water and shake! It's that simple! You can use any liquid soap and it will work. Also, I know a lot of people are starting to make their own <a href="http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/homemade-non-toxic-liquid-hand-soap-2">liquid soaps</a>. It works with those too! So the next time you find yourself with empty foaming soap pumps, or you are looking to save a little money, remember this!! Happy soap making everyone!!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-2379420432218036642012-01-11T13:45:00.000-08:002012-01-11T13:45:28.733-08:00Food, Food and MORE FOOD!!!Now that moving, Holidays, and Birthdays are over in this house for awhile, it's time to get back to business!! That means more tips, recipes and crafts! Woo Hoo!! Today's recipe is a YUMMY breakfast recipe. The best part is you just get out of bed and it's ready to eat!! WHAT?! The second best part is it's LOW CALORIE!! Everyone knows how much I LOVE my CrockPots! Well I found an awesome magazine full of healthy, low calorie meals that you can make in the CrockPot!! Since most people's New Years resolution is to lose weight or get in shape, I decided to share the recipes, once I have tried them and decided if they were yummy or not!! We have now tried four of them and so far, they have all been amazing! Even Troop has eaten them with no complaints! So, to kick off the new year I am going to start with a Recipe for French Toast Bread Pudding!! You will probably have most of these ingredients already so maybe you can make it tonight!! <br />
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<b>French Toast Bread Pudding</b><br />
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12 oz of challah or sweet bread, cut into 1 inch cubes<br />
4 cups fat free milk<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
3 eggs<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
Fat free or sugar free caramel ice cream topping (optional)<br />
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1. Line the crock pot with a liner or foil. Place bread cubes in the CrockPot.<br />
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Pour over bread. Press down lightly with the back of a spoon to moisten bread completely. Cover and chill for 4 hours.<br />
3. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or until knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. Turn off CrockPot. If possible, remove liner from the crockPot. Cool for 30 mins.<br />
4. To serve, transfer french toast to a cutting board and slice it. Or spoon it into serving dishes. Top with caramel topping.<br />
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When I made this I did not have any sweet bread so I used extra thick slices of white bread and added 1/2 tsp of cinnamon to my milk mixture!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfyvBHhaLN1Opo-BPMYn6JcJUD2GzH3U_OeQaE8-TANDoJ6_mfqwkxMhSLPTY5OvqrdAyoZSt8hS_epNiULLhFeTi8tLoyxxBAwO8wZk6_KGPYPn_zhGlGtmdZsXVmN3oYf1t1eyfk8k/s1600/DSC_2070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="226" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfyvBHhaLN1Opo-BPMYn6JcJUD2GzH3U_OeQaE8-TANDoJ6_mfqwkxMhSLPTY5OvqrdAyoZSt8hS_epNiULLhFeTi8tLoyxxBAwO8wZk6_KGPYPn_zhGlGtmdZsXVmN3oYf1t1eyfk8k/s320/DSC_2070.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghj-7a50TP6Q5C33nMT3mx3KL60X6eB28ooUbvM913CBCB4Cbyd53Mv7-h1_nx7XGzhy9USLie-COUW6Wlsz0Y_AFH6iW1PY8z3LI6vIOdx0Xiei3tLmttLg1Xg6GqQ7qwmxINX3dTl4k/s1600/DSC_2071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="214" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghj-7a50TP6Q5C33nMT3mx3KL60X6eB28ooUbvM913CBCB4Cbyd53Mv7-h1_nx7XGzhy9USLie-COUW6Wlsz0Y_AFH6iW1PY8z3LI6vIOdx0Xiei3tLmttLg1Xg6GqQ7qwmxINX3dTl4k/s320/DSC_2071.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-90252265873188678192011-12-12T12:34:00.000-08:002011-12-12T12:34:57.823-08:0013 days until CHRISTMAS!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcc238hlbZ6EMWrsSjCWEEReOtdZHxj_dSynNRSkvNepuKnpt5n4D6StRI-Ozqi5V07UFo9_wrsj4jwG3j9YJMusBnZOIHmH0_NB2bVFpdvPZkp452Png8Gfm589WgZTfBOilqxiTRs8M/s1600/imagesCASWTPA5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="253" width="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcc238hlbZ6EMWrsSjCWEEReOtdZHxj_dSynNRSkvNepuKnpt5n4D6StRI-Ozqi5V07UFo9_wrsj4jwG3j9YJMusBnZOIHmH0_NB2bVFpdvPZkp452Png8Gfm589WgZTfBOilqxiTRs8M/s320/imagesCASWTPA5.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Can you believe how fast the time is going by?!? Are you rushing yet to get everything done? Is your house full of craziness and excitement?? Have you started your baking? There is SO MUCH TO DO this time of year!! My Family has spent the last week moving so we haven't even had the chance to THINK about Christmas!! I know so many people stress alot this time of year making sure they have everything done and perfect! But don't forget to stop, breathe, relax and DANCE!! That's right! Grab your kids, your spouse, your neighbors kids or whoever, turn on some music and just dance!! I promise you will feel better!! AND it could even win you a GREAT prize!! Email me a picture or video of you, your kiddos or spouse dancing to be entered into the drawing!! I promise it's a GREAT PRIZE TOO!!! Here are the rules: Send me a picture or video of someone in your Family dancing to heapfamily1@gmail.com by Friday December 16th. I will post each of them and then you get your friends to "like" my page and go comment or like your photo. The person with the most votes wins!!! Happy Dancing everyone and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-46492945807521767722011-11-28T12:04:00.000-08:002011-11-28T12:04:04.458-08:00Christmas is Coming!! Have Your Kids Been Nice?Can you believe Christmas is less then a month away?! Is it just me or do kids seem to act up more around Christmas time? At least mine does!! And lately he has been TOP NOTCH NAUGHTY!! What would be a better way to scare your kids into good behavior then a personalized message from Santa Claus himself!! That's right!! My good friend Lee over at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/LDP-Production/138497296249120">LDP Production</a> is offering personalized messages from Santa!! You can listen to the demo <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1RF8ZmhMy4&feature=youtu.be">here</a>. He is GREAT at what he does and because he is such a great guy he is offering a $20 deal for Cyber Monday!! You can email him at <a href="mailto:Lee@ldpvoiceover.com">Lee@ldpvoiceover.com</a> for details!! I can't wait to see the look on Troop's face when he gets his message!! Merry Christmas ya'll!!<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-39617398717943930952011-11-14T13:07:00.000-08:002011-11-14T13:07:25.711-08:00Fantastic Fried Chicken!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-iDdD7OPMAU0p6r-v-WEIa23uX3czgtba1gj6V_L96jAH3tCIC4HhmKI004J7ZphizSVG5Xe2ZGGvHEIoHL4sXhZwnSKNiY2eqm92ScVvdRsErqbxb3vnDNvb-MAfgJzfwCuXeOQCbM/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-iDdD7OPMAU0p6r-v-WEIa23uX3czgtba1gj6V_L96jAH3tCIC4HhmKI004J7ZphizSVG5Xe2ZGGvHEIoHL4sXhZwnSKNiY2eqm92ScVvdRsErqbxb3vnDNvb-MAfgJzfwCuXeOQCbM/s320/images.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><br />
So I recently found out Cpt Hunk loves Fried Chicken. You would think after nearly 10 years and me ALWAYS cooking, he would have said something!! Oh well. It reminded me of a great recipe that I haven't used in years and thought I would share it! It's one that has to marinate so be prepared ahead of time! Remember, handling raw chicken can be dangerous so be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and spray your counter when you are done! I use <a href="http://www.clorox.com/products/clorox-anywhere-hard-surface-daily-sanitizing-spray/">Clorox</a> anywhere spray! <br />
<br />
<b><i>Fantastic Fried Chicken</i></b><br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
4 lb chicken, cut in 8 pieces or 8 legs, thighs or drumsticks<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp black pepper<br />
1 tsp paprika<br />
1/4 tsp cayenne<br />
1/2 tsp white pepper<br />
1 tsp ground dried oregano <br />
2 cups buttermilk<br />
<br />
Mix the spices together and add to raw chicken. Mix so the spices coat the chicken. Then pour the buttermilk over the chicken. Let marinate for 6-8 hours or overnight.<br />
<br />
Flour Mixture:<br />
<br />
2 cups flour<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp paprika<br />
1/4 tsp cayenne<br />
1/2 tsp white pepper<br />
1/2 tsp garlic powder<br />
1/2 tsp onion powder<br />
<br />
Fully coat the chicken in the flour mixture. Heat up about 2 quarts of oil (peanut or canola are fine) to 350 degrees. Then add the chicken and cook for about 20 minutes. Super easy, super crunchy and super yummy!! Goes great with mashed potatoes and gravy!! I used the chicken stock from my freezer meals to make the gravy!!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-9574541838136311812011-11-08T14:12:00.000-08:002011-11-08T14:12:44.659-08:00Budget Friendly Spice and Seasoning Mixes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJVBj3YYH9sKZyVAazf9DvYsovWXMUQMEaaGY8k9bzFiuxEsK8SNb5HGBLkZQlH4BgoDfu-6mTEIx41QWNoBavB7t_TAJDvdB-FAnAJIBjbKKI-PMmQ9v1gCNYHMizoeDSCDx7Qav5Q0/s1600/untitled.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJVBj3YYH9sKZyVAazf9DvYsovWXMUQMEaaGY8k9bzFiuxEsK8SNb5HGBLkZQlH4BgoDfu-6mTEIx41QWNoBavB7t_TAJDvdB-FAnAJIBjbKKI-PMmQ9v1gCNYHMizoeDSCDx7Qav5Q0/s320/untitled.bmp" width="126" /></a></div><br />
The other day I opened up my pantry in search of something and found a packet of taco seasoning. I thought to myself "Where in the WORLD did that come from?" I have NEVER used taco seasoning for my taco meat! I pulled it out and remembered a recipe I used awhile back called for a packet of the stuff and I must have bought two of them. So it got me thinking and made me wonder how many people actually use the stuff to season their taco meat. Hence, the question I posted on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Home-That-Jacks-Building/225726390796575">Facebook</a>. I got to doing a little research and found out that those taco seasoning packets are one of the most popular seasoning packets that are bought!! REALLY!?!?! In MY opinion (hope not to offend anyone) I DO NOT like the stuff. If I wanted mushy red meat in my tacos, I would go to Taco Bell! Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE me some Taco Bell, I just don't want my home made tacos to taste like it. However, there are so many of you who DO love the stuff and I just wondered, do you know how EASY and CHEAP it is to make? Stop spending $1+ on pre made packets and make your own!! I bet you have all the ingredients in your cabinet! And I'm not just talking about taco seasoning. You can make so many spice blends that are EXACTLY the same as what you find in the store for a FRACTION of the cost!! Plus, you don't have to worry about all the extra salt, preservatives or mystery ingredients that usually just call themselves "spice". Hmmm... On that note, here is a recipe for some home made taco seasoning that is JUST like the store bought stuff!<br />
<br />
<b>Taco Seasoning</b><br />
Ingredients <br />
<br />
1 tbs chili powder <br />
1/4 tsp garlic powder <br />
1/4 tsp onion powder <br />
1/4 tsp cayenne <br />
1/4 tsp dried oregano <br />
1/2 tsp paprika <br />
2 tsp ground cumin <br />
1 tsp course salt <br />
<br />
Mix together then add to beef with about 1/4 cup of water. This makes enough to season 1 lb<br />
<br />
Here is a <a href="http://www.budget101.com/frugal/seasoning-mix-recipes-198/">link</a> that has a TON of home made spice recipes! Not only are they super easy to make but they can also make great gifts! Everyone needs spices, right? You can even make them cute!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnlSBX9j8tDtpweE_KfNJ4UMPtoutGU7YhS7RCLqWjoJk8BR8F99w2-tOn-RRPg_XtZOfEuKZ_TRU_fR1LfyqXOIMZowFkTIRLkw2hXr8HgGEl5O5_tqJyIQt8aWBuHj1rrGWjdTFnXfo/s1600/Spice%252520Jar%252520PRO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnlSBX9j8tDtpweE_KfNJ4UMPtoutGU7YhS7RCLqWjoJk8BR8F99w2-tOn-RRPg_XtZOfEuKZ_TRU_fR1LfyqXOIMZowFkTIRLkw2hXr8HgGEl5O5_tqJyIQt8aWBuHj1rrGWjdTFnXfo/s320/Spice%252520Jar%252520PRO.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><br />
Another super easy home made concoction I wanted to share with you is Hot Cocoa mix. We go through the stuff like crazy in the winter at our house! We just made a big container of it the other night and it sits on our counter for easy access!<br />
<br />
<b>Hot Cocoa</b><br />
<br />
25 oz powdered milk<br />
11 oz powdered creamer (They have so many flavors but I use plain then add the flavored creamers laters)<br />
16 oz Nesquick<br />
1 cup powdered sugar<br />
1/8 tsp salt<br />
<br />
Mix it all together and store in an airtight container. Use 1/4 cup of mix for a cup of hot cocoa! ENJOY!<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a></div>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-52965080856324935632011-10-12T13:49:00.000-07:002011-10-12T13:49:05.065-07:00Food Pictures!!Apparently, today is NOT my day!! Some pics from my camera got deleted from my card and I'm not really sure how...But, I still have three pics from my cooking day on Friday!! I seriously cooked from 9 am til 330 pm! I got everything done except my bread, chili and empanadas!! I was pretty proud of myself!! Plus with all the chicken I boiled I made a TON of stock!! My plan tomorrow is to get all of the hamburger meat cooked up so I can make my chili and empanadas! Today I am making bread. I found some hazelnut flour at the store so I am SUPER excited to make some hazelnut bread! YUM!!<br />
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Here is all the food right before I began! I forgot to mention while I was doing all of this I was also cooking yummy food in my Crock Pot for my Friend's Bday party which I had that night!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOVLCe6vPPjKlW6CE2KpdM2sOJtGqeC8DV484GdRD2ANiPB3xk8XuEiXvtOS1hThAvG1vDSawjA_jfPvO5JJhp2pmgziQPrVw4tpR9xKXn7H4zqqDpHqjW78ptluh73DN_Yu8u9ocym8/s1600/DSC_3318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOVLCe6vPPjKlW6CE2KpdM2sOJtGqeC8DV484GdRD2ANiPB3xk8XuEiXvtOS1hThAvG1vDSawjA_jfPvO5JJhp2pmgziQPrVw4tpR9xKXn7H4zqqDpHqjW78ptluh73DN_Yu8u9ocym8/s320/DSC_3318.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Potatoes for the breakfast burritos!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiqeJJoKdhLysjv6Hsq7bIdh4PpnpyCzYylpu1AyAJtrpRUfWXYXwo9H_oAPue-3S62jB4wMkrmc1Gay8ngW4ZljjL1nQpFRbLRGEBn8Zn8_pDngVAZLUeJdjwzkyRuh8c9gxvT2KshE/s1600/DSC_3320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiqeJJoKdhLysjv6Hsq7bIdh4PpnpyCzYylpu1AyAJtrpRUfWXYXwo9H_oAPue-3S62jB4wMkrmc1Gay8ngW4ZljjL1nQpFRbLRGEBn8Zn8_pDngVAZLUeJdjwzkyRuh8c9gxvT2KshE/s320/DSC_3320.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Most of my finished product!! 1 jar plus 24 little muffin cups of chicken stock!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw6SIrzNcDIH_sLW-SLdBlDl5cJygJSwgv8uXtIYwQQdBLqAQmisNItzZ2zOypWReWsbRdaMp4w1lojRK522dBeto74RGd5nwdF6DJqS4RxZtyvFIxb3tNUef4dSU_gU_ZPAyXDg5EkhA/s1600/DSC_3321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw6SIrzNcDIH_sLW-SLdBlDl5cJygJSwgv8uXtIYwQQdBLqAQmisNItzZ2zOypWReWsbRdaMp4w1lojRK522dBeto74RGd5nwdF6DJqS4RxZtyvFIxb3tNUef4dSU_gU_ZPAyXDg5EkhA/s320/DSC_3321.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
We actually had one of the bags of the healthy BBQ chicken last night! It was delicious! The only complaint were the sweet potatoes. Neither of my boys really liked them!! Next time I will use regular ol' russetts!<br />
<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-82942532656844323422011-10-06T19:15:00.000-07:002011-10-06T19:15:45.694-07:00Shopping List WITH RecipesHey Everyone! Sorry it's so late. I had a shopping list all typed up for ya and then blogger closed out on me without saving! UGH! BY then I had to start dinner for the Fam!! Anyway, I decided instead to inlude links to where you can find each recipe so you can pick and choose what you want to make and then go from there!! These are the meals/items I will be preparing tomorrow:<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://mamaandbabylove.blogspot.com/2011/04/freezer-cooking-with-slow-cooker.html">Healthy Mama BBQ Chicken</a></b><br />
This page includes a couple other recipes as well!!<br />
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<b><a href="http://joelens.blogspot.com/2010/06/corn-black-beans-beef-empanadas.html">Corn, Black Beans and Beef Empanadas</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.momontimeout.com/2011/08/breakfast-burrito-bonanza.html">Breakfast Burritos</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.freezerdinner.com/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2011/01/Freezer-Meal-Basics-1.1.pdf">Pizza Crust</a></b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.freezerdinner.com/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2011/01/Freezer-Meal-Basics-1.1.pdf">Honey Wheat Bread</a></b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.freezerdinner.com/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2011/01/Freezer-Meal-Basics-1.1.pdf">Lasagna</a></b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://thehomethatjacksbuilding.blogspot.com/2011/09/chicken-pot-pie-and-chocolate-chip.html">Chicken Pot Pie Filling</a></b><br />
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<strong>I will also be making prepared hamburger and taco meat as well as shredded chicken! Also, Chili!!</strong><br />
<strong>Here is the recipe for that!!</strong><br />
<br />
<b>Chili</b><br />
1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)<br />
2 tablespoons vegetable oil<br />
1 large onion<br />
3-4 cloves garlic, minced<br />
2 tablespoons chili powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon cayenne<br />
2 teaspoons dried oregano<br />
2 teaspoons cocoa powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper<br />
2 cups tomato sauce<br />
2 cups low sodium chicken broth<br />
2 cups water<br />
2 tablespoons cider vinegar<br />
2 teaspoons dark brown sugar<br />
1 15oz can red kidney beans (rinsed, drained, warmed)<br />
Accompaniments:<br />
1 pound spaghetti, cooked according to package directions<br />
2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese<br />
1 medium sweet vidalia onion, minced<br />
<br />
In a large dutch oven, add the oil along with the onions and cook until they soften. Add the ground beef to the pot. Saute the beef and break up the meat with a potato masher.<br />
Once the beef has browned and is broken up, add the garlic, followed by the spices - chili powder, cayenne, dried oregano, cocoa powder, ground allspice, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground black pepper and one teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.<br />
Stir in the tomato sauce, broth, water, vinegar, sugar, and drained beans scraping the pan bottom to remove any browned bits. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium low and simmer. Stir occasionally until the chili is deep red in color and has thickened slightly, roughly an hour. Season with salt and hot sauce to taste.<br />
To serve, plate up spaghetti and top with chili. Garnish with cheese and onions if desired.<br />
* To make ahead/freezer meal - Prepare the chili as directed above and allow to cool completely. Place in a freezer safe container and freeze. When ready to enjoy, defrost completely and bring to a simmer over medium low heat before serving.<br />
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I know this seems like a lot but I promise you (as well as your Family!!) will be satisfied with the end result!! I will post pictures as well as talk about how my cooking went on Monday!! Happy Weekend everyone!!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-91953522584894162002011-10-04T11:25:00.000-07:002011-10-04T11:25:51.861-07:00Preparing for Freezer Meals!This week I have decided to spend an entire day preparing MRC's (meals ready to cook) for my Family. I have spent the last few days preparing and making sure I have everything I need for these freezer meals!! I am very excited and will be sharing all of the recipes as well as pictures from the BIG DAY!! I thought, in case some of you would like to join me, whether at my house or from your own homes, I would blog today about the things you need to know before hand! I thought about typing it all up on my own but Troop isn't feeling good today so <a href="http://www.freezerdinner.com/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2011/01/Freezer-Meal-Basics-1.1.pdf">HERE</a> is a link where you can download, save and print all of the info!! I hope you are as excited as I am!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-8038135992311958212011-10-03T12:16:00.000-07:002011-10-03T12:17:31.980-07:00Wash My Washing Machine?!?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMaxym9Yu4ZZ5qfxlkyKl4lwU-GxMbRvDC_OH9RKlgkOW8RJYsKcezp7ifxIZ6JwiiqnX_zBbDCUrNa8RKT0IPhA04PxEZKRbR5Q5Js4fJqiZNCGVPsnfUAqSMymrDEUKdqCL31popxM/s1600/life_0703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="251" width="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMaxym9Yu4ZZ5qfxlkyKl4lwU-GxMbRvDC_OH9RKlgkOW8RJYsKcezp7ifxIZ6JwiiqnX_zBbDCUrNa8RKT0IPhA04PxEZKRbR5Q5Js4fJqiZNCGVPsnfUAqSMymrDEUKdqCL31popxM/s320/life_0703.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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The other day a dear friend of mine called me in distress because her washing machine was leaving strange spots on her shirts! She asked if I had any idea why or what it could be. My first thought was, "Your washing machine must need washed." Sounds crazy right?! We all already dread the "L" word and the thought of having to wash out the washing machine after doing all the laundry sounds less than appealing! Luckily, you only need to do it every few months! If you use liquid fabric softener I would recommend doing it once every six weeks or so. Here are some easy tips to cleaning out your TOP LOAD washing machine.<br />
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First, run a cycle of hot water along with two cups of vinegar or lemon juice to loosen up the soap and grime. Remove the fabric softener receptacle and soak it in hot water and detergent. Clean the bleach dispenser with a spray cleaner, paper towels, and Q-tips. Don't forget to clean the top rim of the wash bucket which is up and under where it can't usually be seen easily. Run the washer empty on a hot cycle one more time. <br />
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While this is going on, check all your hoses for leaks. Over time, the water hoses that came with your washing machine may start to leak or even burst. It is good preventive maintenance to check these hoses from time to time for any sign of wear or weakness. Most manufacturers recommend replacing hoses every 5 years. Make sure your hoses are not a disaster waiting to happen!<br />
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Once you've soaked the fabric softener receptacle, replace it and polish up the outside of your washing machine with vinegar and a cloth towel. Your washing machine now looks better and will run better as well! <br />
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My dear friend, however owns a front load washer. I do not. So I did some research and found some ways to prevent the mildew smell and water build up in your FRONT LOAD washing machine.<br />
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•Always leave the door and dispenser unit slightly ajar after the laundry is done. Front-load washers and the detergent/softener dispenser drawer must dry out. <br />
•Never leave a wet washload in the washer overnight; remove it when the washing cycle is complete and leave the door open. <br />
•After a load is done, always rotate the drum with your hand to see and remove all items. Some could be sticking to top or sides of the washer drum. <br />
•Use softener sheets in the dryer instead of liquid softeners in the washer. <br />
•Liquid detergents may leave less residue than powdered formulas which may not dissolve properly. <br />
•Use less than the recommended detergent level for your load. Too much detergent can cause a residue build up. Experiment until you find a minimum measurement that delivers a clean wash. This is also a money saver. <br />
•Occasionally wash some loads such as whites, linen and towels in warm or hot water to help flush out wash residue. <br />
•Always clean your washer as per your product manual. High efficiency front-load models have a cleaning cycle and it's imperative that you periodically run this cycle as directed. <br />
•Check the gasket just inside the door opening and remove any visible debris. You can also wipe it to speed the drying process. <br />
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I hope this helps some of you out! Feel free to share your own tips to cleaning out your washing machine!! Happy Monday Ya'll!<br />
<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-77597065243835725142011-09-21T14:59:00.000-07:002011-09-21T14:59:09.197-07:00Even The Best of Us Have THOSE Days!!My sister recently emailed me a recipe for Crockpot refried beans!Being a HUGE fan of mexican food (both cooking and eating) of course I wanted to make them right away! On a side note, does anyone really like the smell of soaking/cooking pinto beans? I sure don't and Captain Hunk DEFINITELY doesn't! So on my first attempt to make the beans, I put everything in the crockpot and went to bed! We started smelling the beans in the middle of the night. At 7 am the next morning, Captain Hunk came home from PT and said "Those better be the BEST DANG beans I have ever tasted because the whole downstairs STINKS!" I went down to check on them and all of the water had cooked out of the Crockpot and the beans were burned to the sides! So if you think cooking pinto beans stinks then you should smell BURNED cooking pinto beans! It was BAD, to say the least!! But it didn't keep me from trying batch number two, which I immediately started!! Thank goodness I own two Crockpots!! THis time they turned out FANTASTIC!! The only downside is I felt like I had to add more salt because they were a little bland! We still ate them though! Don't they look yummy?!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0-zneLKJrE_VgVL3NXOjHT6MtjKOkewtVna4WRGeNSZHprJSssMj-Ck52Et4koZVuCMTrwoGu0Cz58qwRD52SXvaP929R5MJJ2fUTX7MkCoEzhQZYfrO-AV35aHRZLFXuCv6KW-c280/s1600/DSC_3230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0-zneLKJrE_VgVL3NXOjHT6MtjKOkewtVna4WRGeNSZHprJSssMj-Ck52Et4koZVuCMTrwoGu0Cz58qwRD52SXvaP929R5MJJ2fUTX7MkCoEzhQZYfrO-AV35aHRZLFXuCv6KW-c280/s320/DSC_3230.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So I decided to make them again for my friends only this time I changed it up a bit and did green chiles instead of the jalepenos it originally called for. It made a WORLD of a difference in flavor. No extra salt or seasonings was necessary. I have the best friends who are always willing to be guinea pigs for my new creations!! So I decided to share a few recipes with you that I think went very yummy with the beans!! First here is the bean recipe:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><u>Refried Beans</u></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 onion, peeled and halved</div>2 cups dry pinto beans, rinsed<br />
½ fresh jalapeno or other hot pepper, seeded and chopped (I subbed this with two fresh chopped anaheims)<br />
2 cloves garlic, minced<br />
¾ teaspoons salt<br />
½ teaspoon black pepper<br />
One big pinch of cumin<br />
6 cups water<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Combine all ingredients in slow cooker.</div> Cook on high for 8 hours or overnight while you are sleeping.<br />
Remove the bigger onion chunks and drain the excess liquid. If desired, save excess liquid until the final product is desired consistency. I HIGHLY recommend this!<br />
Mash remaining beans with a potato masher and voila! You have homemade refried beans. I don't have a potato masher so I just put my beans in my <a href="http://www.ninjakitchen.com/products/ninja-kitchen-system-1100-nj602/cpc/ogviicpc.shtml?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=kitchen%20ninja%201100&utm_campaign=Offer7CookbookFSH159">Kitchen Ninja</a> and pressed the pulse button until they were to my liking!! And by the way, Captain Hunk thought they were pretty dang delicious!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Next I thought I would give you my salsa recipe!! Now before you get TOO excited, keep in mind this is my FRESH salsa recipe and not the one that many of you have tasted. That recipe is staying locked in my book until someone steals it from me or I die!! :) In my opinion though, I think I am starting to like this fresh one more and more!! Here are some of the ingredients ( as well as some for our next recipe) that I started with.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><u>Salsa</u></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/2 bunch cilantro</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 lbs roma tomatoes</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3 fresh Anaheim green chiles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1-2 fresh jalepenos</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 medium yellow onion</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 Tbl Lemon Juice</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pepper</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Garlic Salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cayenne Pepper</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Chile Powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Put the tomatoes in boiling water and boil for 5 to 10 minutes or until skins begin to come loose. Then place them in a cold water bath. Mean while, finely chop the onion. The chop the green chiles as well as the jalepenos. You may roast your green chiles if you like. I turned on my gas stove and did it that way! :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfC1knZOKoWVinHxKzlRUXjQCNp1dcXjNfKns7hBNQeuSD40FWf6iRQsxPar4MYrSUunsbKYpFknbjjNhCxVUwhw3ZwmScCUKq73-YO3SJjsex0U-JsakCLyhgJt-uMWYQCbSXBWq5xE/s1600/DSC_3223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfC1knZOKoWVinHxKzlRUXjQCNp1dcXjNfKns7hBNQeuSD40FWf6iRQsxPar4MYrSUunsbKYpFknbjjNhCxVUwhw3ZwmScCUKq73-YO3SJjsex0U-JsakCLyhgJt-uMWYQCbSXBWq5xE/s320/DSC_3223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Peel the skins off of the tomatoes and cut off stems. Then add the tomatoes and cilantro to the blender and blend until smooth. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5QxayeQiUEIIhVBfSl7nA5wrgI1GE61_QMMx6VESPYzkmQBsTpNyDr4Zz93OIUNeLw_gNALk9bF8AnrJtS4qrH8gAlVlL_w6_C-mrqXtLlIGkvWofqLbIRgQL2Lpc9POHHABTXLFG5M/s1600/DSC_3226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5QxayeQiUEIIhVBfSl7nA5wrgI1GE61_QMMx6VESPYzkmQBsTpNyDr4Zz93OIUNeLw_gNALk9bF8AnrJtS4qrH8gAlVlL_w6_C-mrqXtLlIGkvWofqLbIRgQL2Lpc9POHHABTXLFG5M/s320/DSC_3226.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Put all ingredients in a bowl. I don't really measure my spices so you can put in how much of each until it tastes to your liking! Also, if you like to add extra yummy stuff to your salsa, try adding a fresh chopped peach or mango. I made one jar of regular and one bowl of mango! The mango was my favorite!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cRTp5AU0unyGd969xJMPvXQ-mU8x9DTxgqt3CwrcCMGj_tC7GHMkgbVOAmBpTNK0tkSjKCtoATrnwXaMBOvTAc0kWTu5OVce-fgA0eaC6IDdk2BvzU_A1ixB3vUFSSYZMM0bvvQL5PA/s1600/DSC_3232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cRTp5AU0unyGd969xJMPvXQ-mU8x9DTxgqt3CwrcCMGj_tC7GHMkgbVOAmBpTNK0tkSjKCtoATrnwXaMBOvTAc0kWTu5OVce-fgA0eaC6IDdk2BvzU_A1ixB3vUFSSYZMM0bvvQL5PA/s320/DSC_3232.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The next recipe I want to share with you I found on <a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a>. A FANTASTIC website with creative ideas! I can't really take credit for it other then the extra avocado I added!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><u>Guacamole Salsa</u></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1 lb. tomatillos (or more if you want it thinner)</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1 jalapeno pepper (or more if you like it spicy)</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1/3 bunch cilantro</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1 thick slice of onion</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1 garlic clove</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1 avocado</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1 tsp. salt</span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div>Peel and wash the tomatillos - they are usually found over by the cilantro & peppers, and have a husk on them. Cut them into quarters and put in the blender. Follow with the jalapeno, cilantro, onion, garlic, avocado & salt. Be sure to put the tomatillos in the bottom of the blender and not the avocado so it doesn't stick to the blade. You might have to help it start by shaking or using a mixer at first. But, once it gets going the juice from the tomatillos will help move the other ingredients around.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyrTwt7g4DGKW7pKRvI7gLE3v5WgJL81HHL6bDKe5D1z1eWmGQZ1yW_g6LFqVK1r7zuZtPk0G6R3TyViL5HU4LgHLuF_-SthoEYWIgi8CwleEaFEZuIMIHTlHYD8FFkaw99XK49iZVjj4/s1600/DSC_3224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyrTwt7g4DGKW7pKRvI7gLE3v5WgJL81HHL6bDKe5D1z1eWmGQZ1yW_g6LFqVK1r7zuZtPk0G6R3TyViL5HU4LgHLuF_-SthoEYWIgi8CwleEaFEZuIMIHTlHYD8FFkaw99XK49iZVjj4/s320/DSC_3224.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I decided to add an extra avocado because my tomatillos were very citrus(y). And you can never have TOO MUCH avocado!! :) It was so yummy and disappeared quickly!! Don't always judge things by the way they look! ENJOY!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLH_Q9R0sOjTgZjx97Pu4KxlMHNrymrv4b3b7bhYF2B4TRDzlME2EIccOFDSUkV_Nt9JHzk9df7eW7xGJAa9Cj51dsReZZhJTeiqZpiJQQJpEXYYi6GoXKDQr9aNbhZdfrlERA-C7HsI/s1600/DSC_3225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLH_Q9R0sOjTgZjx97Pu4KxlMHNrymrv4b3b7bhYF2B4TRDzlME2EIccOFDSUkV_Nt9JHzk9df7eW7xGJAa9Cj51dsReZZhJTeiqZpiJQQJpEXYYi6GoXKDQr9aNbhZdfrlERA-C7HsI/s320/DSC_3225.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a></div>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3964481780945948635.post-61809839308274536312011-09-14T14:17:00.000-07:002011-09-14T14:17:07.756-07:00Green Chile Mashed Potatoes!I have been doing HORRIBLE at staying on the task of blogging everyday! It just seems like it's that time of year when things start getting crazy! But the exciting news is I am about to announce our giveaway winner and I am giving you a recipe today!!<br />
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<b>Green Chile Mashed Potatoes</b><br />
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6 large potatoes rinsed, peeled and chopped<br />
3/4 cup milk<br />
2 4 oz cans chopped green chiles<br />
4 Tbls butter<br />
4 oz cream cheese<br />
1/2 cup sour cream<br />
1/2 cup shredded cheddar<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
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Boil potatoes until soft. Dump in a bowl and add milk. Blend until smooth. Add the rest of the ingredients and stir together. These are rough estimates of the amounts I use. You may add more or less of each ingredient depending on desired taste or thickness! Captain Hunk usualy adds triple the amount of butter and cream cheese! There are many ways to make this side dish, but this is MY way! This is a great complement to steaks or chicken on the grill!<br />
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<a href="http://s1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/?action=view&current=Signature.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l559/heapfamily/Signature.png" /></a>Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00272088249550503142noreply@blogger.com1