My mom sent me this information on what you can use WD-40 on and with. I thought it was pretty interesting and thought maybe some of you would like the info as well. So here you go....
WD-40 who knew? 'Water Displacement #40'. The product began from a search for a rust preventative solvent and degreaser to protect missile parts. WD-40 was created in 1953 by three technicians at the San Diego Rocket Chemical Company. Its name comes from the project that was to find a 'water displacement' compound. They were successful with the fortieth formulation, thus WD-40.
The Convair Company bought it in bulk to protect their atlas missile parts. Ken East (one of the original founders) says there is nothing in WD-40 that would hurt you. When you read the 'shower door' part, try it. It's the first thing that has ever cleaned that spotty shower door. If yours is plastic, it works just as well as glass. It's a miracle! Then try it on your stove top ... Viola! It's now shinier than it's ever been. You'll be amazed.
Here are some not on their list ~ Great for removing bumper stickers, price tags from non-porous items, ink from fingers, traffic citations stuck to car windows.
WD-40 uses:
1. Protects silver from tarnishing.
2. Removes road tar and grime from cars.
3. Cleans and lubricates guitar strings.
4. Gives floors that 'just-waxed' sheen without making them slippery.
5. Keeps flies off cows.
6. Restores and cleans chalkboards.
7. Removes lipstick stains.
8. Loosens stubborn zippers.
9. Untangles jewelry chains.
10. Removes stains from stainless steel sinks.
11. Removes dirt and grime from the barbecue grill.
12. Keeps ceramic/terra cotta garden pots from oxidizing.
13. Removes tomato stains from clothing.
14. Keeps glass shower doors free of water spots.
15. Camouflages scratches in ceramic and marble floors.
16. Keeps scissors working smoothly.
17. Lubricates noisy door hinges on vehicles and doors in homes.
18. It removes black scuff marks from the kitchen floor! Use WD-40 for those nasty tar and scuff marks on flooring. It doesn't seem to harm the finish and you won't have to scrub nearly as hard to get them off. Just remember to open some windows if you have a lot of marks.
19. Bug guts will eat away the finish on your car if not removed quickly! Use WD-40!
20. Gives a children's playground gym slide a shine for a super fast slide.
21. Lubricates gear shift and mower deck lever for ease of handling on riding mowers...
22. Rids kids rocking chairs and swings of squeaky noises.
23. Lubricates tracks in sticking home windows and makes them easier to open..
24. Spraying an umbrella stem makes it easier to open and close.
25. Restores and cleans padded leather dashboards in vehicles, as well as vinyl bumpers.
26. Restores and cleans roof racks on vehicles.
27. Lubricates and stops squeaks in electric fans
28. Lubricates wheel sprockets on tricycles, wagons, and bicycles for easy handling.
29. Lubricates fan belts on washers and dryers and keeps them running smoothly.
30. Keeps rust from forming on saws and saw blades, and other tools.
31. Removes splattered grease on stove.
32. Keeps bathroom mirror from fogging.
33. Lubricates prosthetic limbs.
34. Keeps pigeons off the balcony (they hate the smell).
35. Removes all traces of duct tape.
36. Folks even spray it on their arms, hands, and knees to relieve arthritis pain.
37. Florida ’s favorite use is: 'cleans and removes love bugs from grills and bumpers.'
38. The favorite use in the state of New York, WD-40 protects the Statue of Liberty from the elements.
39. WD-40 attracts fish. Spray a little on live bait or lures and you will be catching the big one in no time. Also, it's a lot heaper than the chemical attractants that are made for just that purpose. Keep in mind though, using some chemical laced baits or lures for fishing are not allowed in some states.
40. Use it for fire ant bites. It takes the sting away immediately and stops the itch.
41. WD-40 is great for removing crayon from walls. Spray on the mark and wipe with a clean rag.
42. Also, if you've discovered that your teenage daughter has washed and dried a tube of lipstick with a load of laundry, saturate the lipstick spots with WD-40 and rewash. Presto! The lipstick is gone!
43. If you sprayed WD-40 on the distributor cap, it would displace the moisture and allow the car to start.
Oh by the way, the basic ingredient in WD-40 is FISH OIL.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Sunday, November 20, 2011
In need of Help
Okay ladies I need some help. I know not everyone starts thinking about Christmas in January but I do and I have had a project in mind for about two years now. I would like to work on it a little more this upcoming year and that is why I need your help. As the Christmas season is soon upon you and everyone will soon start having lessons on the real meaning of Christmas will you do me this favor? If there is any poems, stories or other such things that talk about Santa and the Savior and the meaning of Christmas all together could you pass them along to me. I would GREATLY appreciate it.
Thank-You,
Shantelle
Thank-You,
Shantelle
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Note from Natalie
I just came across this blog and decided to share. I am working on my personal progress since as a YW I was a slacker and never got my medallion. Well in my searches for my Choice and Accountability project I came across this blog just packed with information that follows my coupon desire but also gives specific instructions on how to have a better grocery budget. I wanted to share. In this economy I think it is very helpful to learn to save money anywhere we can. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
http://moneysavingmom.com/2010/03/31-days-to-a-better-grocery-budget-stop-making-excuses-and-commit-to-change.html
-Nat
http://moneysavingmom.com/2010/03/31-days-to-a-better-grocery-budget-stop-making-excuses-and-commit-to-change.html
-Nat
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Thanks
Thank you Shantelle for the candy and recipe. That candy truly melts in your mouth. I'm cutting back on sugar right now so I only allowed myself a small bite and froze the rest. It's pretty tempting, knowing there is more so close.
Thanks for the recipe you sent, Heather. I'm going to make it as soon as I see cranberries in the store. It is SO GOOD.
Today is the first day I have pulled the blog up since my last post. Shame on me. There are so many great posts from you all. I will make a point of checking in more often, since we canceled Facebook and don't get any info there now.
Natalie, you are polishing up some very good habits with the couponing and better eating practices. Keep up the good work.
After that comment, I'm embarrassed to add a recipe that is definitely not healthy eating. But it was a great hit with everyone we shared with. If you try it, I know you'll like it.
TOFFEE CRUNCH COOKIES
2 sticks butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tbsp vanilla
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
2 cups quick oats
1 cup crispy rice cereal
1 1/4 cups milk
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup mini marshmallows
Beat butter with sugars. Add eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. Beat in flour, baking soda and baking powder. Fold in oats, cereal, chips and marshmallows.
Drop by 1-2 tablespoonsful onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Bake in a 350' over for 10-12 minutes.
This is a 'keeper' cookie recipe. Yummy!
This recipe came from "Two Peas In Their Pod" recipe blog. It's a good one to check out.
Thanks for the recipe you sent, Heather. I'm going to make it as soon as I see cranberries in the store. It is SO GOOD.
Today is the first day I have pulled the blog up since my last post. Shame on me. There are so many great posts from you all. I will make a point of checking in more often, since we canceled Facebook and don't get any info there now.
Natalie, you are polishing up some very good habits with the couponing and better eating practices. Keep up the good work.
After that comment, I'm embarrassed to add a recipe that is definitely not healthy eating. But it was a great hit with everyone we shared with. If you try it, I know you'll like it.
TOFFEE CRUNCH COOKIES
2 sticks butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tbsp vanilla
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
2 cups quick oats
1 cup crispy rice cereal
1 1/4 cups milk
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup mini marshmallows
Beat butter with sugars. Add eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. Beat in flour, baking soda and baking powder. Fold in oats, cereal, chips and marshmallows.
Drop by 1-2 tablespoonsful onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Bake in a 350' over for 10-12 minutes.
This is a 'keeper' cookie recipe. Yummy!
This recipe came from "Two Peas In Their Pod" recipe blog. It's a good one to check out.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Happy Grandparents Day
I just wanted to wish all the grandparents that are part of this blog a Happy Grandparents Day. In Brazil they make a big deal out of these kind of days. They have Mother's Day and Father's Day, but in addition to this they do Grandparents day and Kid's Day. On these days the kids give gifts to their grandparents and visit them, and I have decided to try to teach my children this holiday as well. I just have to try to remember when Children's Day is (not that they really need another excuse for presents, but maybe they will get a special treat that day or something like that).
Anyways for gifts for the grandparents today I decided to go Brazilian and make Brigadeiros. Yummy stuff for those of you who don't know. I know Jeremy would know. What they are (according to Tyrel) is a chocolate version of caramel. It has the same texture as caramel, and is gooey like caramel, and well it is a favorite treat of mine. :) The recipe is so easy and only uses 3 ingredients. So if any of you want to get your Brazilian on here is the recipe...ENJOY!!!
Anyways for gifts for the grandparents today I decided to go Brazilian and make Brigadeiros. Yummy stuff for those of you who don't know. I know Jeremy would know. What they are (according to Tyrel) is a chocolate version of caramel. It has the same texture as caramel, and is gooey like caramel, and well it is a favorite treat of mine. :) The recipe is so easy and only uses 3 ingredients. So if any of you want to get your Brazilian on here is the recipe...ENJOY!!!
Ingredients:
3 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
1 Tablespoon butter
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
Directions:
In a medium sauce pan over medium hear, combine cocoa, butter and condensed milk. Cook, stirring constantly (otherwise it will burn just like caramel can) until thickened (thick enough to show bottom of pan during stirring). Remove from heat and pour mixture into a lightly greased dish (I have found that something like a 9X13 cake pan works great!) and allow to cool completely to room temperature. With slightly greased hands (although your hands will still end up a complete mess from these) form small balls and roll in sprinkles, coconut, or powdered sugar (Brazilian's use the chocolate sprinkles if you want to be really authentic). *As a side note they will be a little soft after rolling, but if you would like them a little harder just leave out over night and they harden up*
Don't those just look amazing? And the possibilities with these are endless. You can add candy or nuts in the middle, or even strawberries. Plus they are awesome for parties (because you can make a ton and people can really only eat about 2-3 at a time).
Anyways Happy Grandparents Day...I hope it has been an incredible day for you. Thank you for all that you do! Without grandparents this world would be VERY lost! We love you!
Monday, September 5, 2011
Cranberry Salad from Kristi's shower
As requested by Grandma here is the cranberry salad recipe :)
Mimi’s Cranberry Salad
(not quite so sweet)
1 package fresh cranberries 1 cup sugar
2 scant cups miniature marshmallows 1 cup whipping cream
1 8 ounce crushed pineapple, well drained
Put the cranberries through the blender on coarse setting. Add sugar and chill for 2 hours. Add crushed pineapple, marshmallows. Whip the cream and fold into the cranberry mixture. Chill 4 hours or over night. This recipe can be watery. Drain the pineapple on a paper towel. When whipping the cream make sure it is very stiff. Fresh cranberries are found in the produce section of supermarkets in November and December. They also freeze well and can be stored in the freezer for a year.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Dino Cake
So for Bren's birthday I made a dino cake, and I had a lot of people ask me how I did it. The secrete...I FOLLOWED THE DIRECTIONS!!! :) I found it online, but I thought that I would share it. It is located at www.familyfun.go.com under recipes-cakes-animal cakes. There are a lot of fun cakes on this website. I have the template (and I am actually trying to find a way to make cookie cutters for it I just haven't figured out how yet...) but you can download it from this website. They have a lot of other fun things found on this website as well. I will post pictures of the cake soon so you can see what it is suppose to look like. Happy Baking!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Not just for boo boos.
So yesterday Amy took a literal nose dive off her dad's lap and ended up with a bloody nose. We didn't catch it before she had put a nice blood spot on his white shirt (that had also gone through to his garment top). Well I took her and he ran to the bathroom to do as most people do...soak the shirt in cold water. When I saw this I remembered a trick that I learned while working as a CNA.
The trick is to pour some Hydrogen Peroxide on the spot...it will remove the blood with ease. The housekeepers told us to use this when residents had accidents and left blood on the carpet, and there was always a surplus supply of those lovely brown bottles. :) . The we just pour Hydrogen Peroxide on the carpet let it foam up a little and take a towel and roll it across the carpet and amazingly enough it really did pull the blood out of the carpet.
Well I started to use this for other applications as well. So now when Tyrel gets a bloody nose because of his allergies, I simply will grab my brown bottle. It gets it out every time without even a hint of a stain. But I love this because it works GREAT on menstrual accidents.
I was amazed at the difference this has made at saving some of our clothes. Hydrogen Peroxide works on all colors of clothing and won't bleach them (at least I have never seen it bleach clothes or carpets but that is because I rinse the hydrogen peroxide out before it gets and real sun exposure).
Here are some other things that you can use Hydrogen Peroxide fore: This stuff really is amazing!
1. Take one capful (the little white cap that comes with the bottle) and hold in your mouth for 10 minutes daily, then spit it out.. No more canker sores, and your teeth will be whiter without expensive pastes. Use it instead of mouthwash...
2. Let your toothbrushes soak in a cup of peroxide to keep them free of germs.
3. Clean your counters and table tops with peroxide to kill germs and leave a fresh smell. Simply put a little on your dishrag when you wipe down your countertops, or spray it on the counters directly.
4. After rinsing off your wooden cutting board, pour peroxide on it to Kill salmonella and other bacteria.
5. Fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water and keep it in every bathroom to disinfect without harming your septic system like bleach or most other disinfectants will.
6. Tilt your head back and spray into nostrils with your 50/50 mixture whenever you have a cold, plugged sinus. It will bubble and help to kill the bacteria. Hold for a few minutes, and then blow your nose into a tissue.
7. If you have a terrible tooth ache and cannot get to a dentist right away, put a capful of 3% peroxide into your mouth and hold it for ten minutes several times a day. The pain will less greatly.
8. Put half a bottle of peroxide into your bath water to help rid boils, fungus, or other skin infections.
9. Use peroxide to clean your mirrors. There is no smearing
I now try to keep a surplus of hydrogen peroxide around my house, because you can use it for so many things.
The trick is to pour some Hydrogen Peroxide on the spot...it will remove the blood with ease. The housekeepers told us to use this when residents had accidents and left blood on the carpet, and there was always a surplus supply of those lovely brown bottles. :) . The we just pour Hydrogen Peroxide on the carpet let it foam up a little and take a towel and roll it across the carpet and amazingly enough it really did pull the blood out of the carpet.
Well I started to use this for other applications as well. So now when Tyrel gets a bloody nose because of his allergies, I simply will grab my brown bottle. It gets it out every time without even a hint of a stain. But I love this because it works GREAT on menstrual accidents.
I was amazed at the difference this has made at saving some of our clothes. Hydrogen Peroxide works on all colors of clothing and won't bleach them (at least I have never seen it bleach clothes or carpets but that is because I rinse the hydrogen peroxide out before it gets and real sun exposure).
Here are some other things that you can use Hydrogen Peroxide fore: This stuff really is amazing!
1. Take one capful (the little white cap that comes with the bottle) and hold in your mouth for 10 minutes daily, then spit it out.. No more canker sores, and your teeth will be whiter without expensive pastes. Use it instead of mouthwash...
2. Let your toothbrushes soak in a cup of peroxide to keep them free of germs.
3. Clean your counters and table tops with peroxide to kill germs and leave a fresh smell. Simply put a little on your dishrag when you wipe down your countertops, or spray it on the counters directly.
4. After rinsing off your wooden cutting board, pour peroxide on it to Kill salmonella and other bacteria.
5. Fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water and keep it in every bathroom to disinfect without harming your septic system like bleach or most other disinfectants will.
6. Tilt your head back and spray into nostrils with your 50/50 mixture whenever you have a cold, plugged sinus. It will bubble and help to kill the bacteria. Hold for a few minutes, and then blow your nose into a tissue.
7. If you have a terrible tooth ache and cannot get to a dentist right away, put a capful of 3% peroxide into your mouth and hold it for ten minutes several times a day. The pain will less greatly.
8. Put half a bottle of peroxide into your bath water to help rid boils, fungus, or other skin infections.
9. Use peroxide to clean your mirrors. There is no smearing
I now try to keep a surplus of hydrogen peroxide around my house, because you can use it for so many things.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Notes from Nat: Coupon anyone?
Is anyone else a coupon virgin(as they lovingly call us in the coupon world) or is it just me. It seems as though more and more people are getting on the band wagon and I think that I have finally decided to join them! I kept convincing myself that I do not have the time to coupon, but then realized that I do not have the money to not. Is my time worth saving $100-$300 a month on groceries. Obviously for me it would be the smaller amount since it is just Kilo and I for now, but someday when our family expands I would like to already have the coupon snipping down pat. Another reason I feel so prompted to jump on the band wagon is because of my lack of food storage. I can only imagine what $100 a month put towards food storage instead of my daily groceries would help me to compile. Our Bishop has emphasized to our ward for the past THREE MONTHS the importance of being prepared! Needless to say it is really sinking in! We are taking the girls on a High Adventure for Young Women and our theme is "Being Prepared". Well I am taking it to heart and am doing all I can to pinch pennies and put it towards having a sense of security. Here are the sights that I now follow and am learning from. It is going to be quite the process to get everything up and running, while making a few rookie mistakes along the way, but I am ready. If any of you are couponers and have any good advice for the newbies I would love to hear about it!!
This is my favorite sight so far, mostly because she has a "beginners tutorial":
http://thekrazycouponlady.com/
Here are a few others
http://www.thriftyandthriving.com/
http://www.frugallivingnw.com/
http://www.crazy-coupon-lady.com/
You can also follow so many different coupon groups on Facebook or Twitter!
I hope to soon have a pantry that lloks like this:
Beautiful right?
Instead of looking like this......
This is my favorite sight so far, mostly because she has a "beginners tutorial":
http://thekrazycouponlady.com/
Here are a few others
http://www.thriftyandthriving.com/
http://www.frugallivingnw.com/
http://www.crazy-coupon-lady.com/
You can also follow so many different coupon groups on Facebook or Twitter!
I hope to soon have a pantry that lloks like this:
Instead of looking like this......
YIKES!!!
Happy Couponing!!!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Notes from Nat
For most of you Summer is half way over....well for me it is still in the 60-70's so I have not even thought about swimsuit shopping but thought I would share a few sites I have found that might help those out that are thinking of climbing into a swimsuit.
First of all, as most of you noticed when I was in Utah for Steph's wedding I have lost a significant amount of weight. I do not assume to think that any of you need to lose weight. I am just sharing what has helped me feel better, have more energy, accomplish more daily, and really actually has changed me spiritually as well. I have always had a really bad self image of myself and have battled my weight my whole life.(There really is a point to my rambling) Since I have changed the way I take care of myself and my indulgences I feel like I am actually living the Word of Wisdom. I am able to keep up with the Young Women for my calling, I can serve others more, and all around feel closer to the Lord. "Everything in Moderation". Well I have really learned to apply this to my daily living, including how strict I am with myself. EVERYTHING in moderation. So the way that I have gotten into such good shape is through clean eating. There are so many places where you can read all about it so I am going to spare you the details but I wanted to share some websites that I have found that have really helped me cook YUMMY food that is also fueling my body. I actually just ran a 5k and cut 3 min off the last time I ran it. It felt awesome! So sorry about my ramblings about me, just wanted to give some background and reason for my post. Anyway here is my absolute FAVORITE sight for recipes! This lady is such an inspiration!
http://www.thegraciouspantry.com/
Here are some others that are also fun to look at
http://www.thecleaneatingmama.com/
http://cleaneatingchelsey.com/
http://cleaneatingmachine.blogspot.com/
Secondly, for those of you that need some good places for modest, adorable, and comfy swimsuits here are some good sites I have found. I do not have the luxury of living in the land of the modest closthes sold in stores :-) So here are some that you may or may not already know about
http://www.downeastbasics.com/newswim.aspx
http://www.downeastbasics.com/modbeswim.aspx
http://www.limericki.com/WOMEN?_oskwdid=5966354&_engineadid=7556223155
Happy shopping girls!!
First of all, as most of you noticed when I was in Utah for Steph's wedding I have lost a significant amount of weight. I do not assume to think that any of you need to lose weight. I am just sharing what has helped me feel better, have more energy, accomplish more daily, and really actually has changed me spiritually as well. I have always had a really bad self image of myself and have battled my weight my whole life.(There really is a point to my rambling) Since I have changed the way I take care of myself and my indulgences I feel like I am actually living the Word of Wisdom. I am able to keep up with the Young Women for my calling, I can serve others more, and all around feel closer to the Lord. "Everything in Moderation". Well I have really learned to apply this to my daily living, including how strict I am with myself. EVERYTHING in moderation. So the way that I have gotten into such good shape is through clean eating. There are so many places where you can read all about it so I am going to spare you the details but I wanted to share some websites that I have found that have really helped me cook YUMMY food that is also fueling my body. I actually just ran a 5k and cut 3 min off the last time I ran it. It felt awesome! So sorry about my ramblings about me, just wanted to give some background and reason for my post. Anyway here is my absolute FAVORITE sight for recipes! This lady is such an inspiration!
http://www.thegraciouspantry.com/
Here are some others that are also fun to look at
http://www.thecleaneatingmama.com/
http://cleaneatingchelsey.com/
http://cleaneatingmachine.blogspot.com/
Secondly, for those of you that need some good places for modest, adorable, and comfy swimsuits here are some good sites I have found. I do not have the luxury of living in the land of the modest closthes sold in stores :-) So here are some that you may or may not already know about
http://www.downeastbasics.com/newswim.aspx
http://www.downeastbasics.com/modbeswim.aspx
http://www.limericki.com/WOMEN?_oskwdid=5966354&_engineadid=7556223155
Happy shopping girls!!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
craft ideas
I am not sure how many of you like to do crafts. I do! I love them because it gives me something to do with my kids (other than sit around the house and watch television, or something else that is mind numbing), but I also enjoy them for myself. I love seeing something I did with my own two hands. I love starting and finishing a project. It is very gratifying for me. Well knowing that before any of us are really ready for it, autumn will soon be here. So I started to look for some cute craft ideas that I could do and ones that the kids could do. Here are some of the ideas that I found...
Anyways I thought they would be so much fun. I am hoping to be able to start some of them come September (that way I could get some money saved up to get the stuff, and yet still have time to display them all of October). But I am also one that LOVES to get together with other people to do things so I was thinking MAYBE if you guys wanted...we could do our own super Saturday kind of thing. We could try doing it at a park as I think it would still be plenty warm enough outside, or I could see about the possibility of getting my ward building. If you don't want to do it as a big group but you would still like to do the craft, I have all the instructions that I will give you. Just a thought...let me know what you think.
Also as school is starting up soon, I am starting to think about trying to do some mini lessons (pre-school stuff) with Bren, so that when he starts kindergarten he isn't behind the other students. Anyone have any ideas on where to go for that? He already knows his letters, numbers 1-20, most shapes (he still has a hard time with the ones like rectangle, diamond, and other "unnormal" shapes), colors, and is starting to learn to write letters. What are some good ideas for some mini lessons. I know I should ask Kerri, and I probably will the next time I see her, but does anyone else have any ideas? By the way...this is Shantelle...I have no idea how to change the name of the one doing the posting. LOL! See Gram's your not the only one who has computer/internet problems. :)
Anyways I thought they would be so much fun. I am hoping to be able to start some of them come September (that way I could get some money saved up to get the stuff, and yet still have time to display them all of October). But I am also one that LOVES to get together with other people to do things so I was thinking MAYBE if you guys wanted...we could do our own super Saturday kind of thing. We could try doing it at a park as I think it would still be plenty warm enough outside, or I could see about the possibility of getting my ward building. If you don't want to do it as a big group but you would still like to do the craft, I have all the instructions that I will give you. Just a thought...let me know what you think.
Also as school is starting up soon, I am starting to think about trying to do some mini lessons (pre-school stuff) with Bren, so that when he starts kindergarten he isn't behind the other students. Anyone have any ideas on where to go for that? He already knows his letters, numbers 1-20, most shapes (he still has a hard time with the ones like rectangle, diamond, and other "unnormal" shapes), colors, and is starting to learn to write letters. What are some good ideas for some mini lessons. I know I should ask Kerri, and I probably will the next time I see her, but does anyone else have any ideas? By the way...this is Shantelle...I have no idea how to change the name of the one doing the posting. LOL! See Gram's your not the only one who has computer/internet problems. :)
Thursday, July 14, 2011
From Gram
Recently I was picking out a pineapple at the store when a Japanese lady who was also choosing one gave me a tip that I thought everyone might like to know. She said when you get the pineapple home, while waiting for it to ripen, it should be stood upside-down and that this would bring the sugar to the top of the fruit. I chose one and did as she suggested. I also checked the internet to see what I could find on this and learned that ripening it upside-down hastens the process. I was surprised to see the pineapple go from green to yellow almost overnight and when we cut and served it, it was delicious -- on BOTH ends! I also learned that you can test for ripeness by gently pulling one of the top leaves and it should come out easily. There were other tips for choosing a good pineapple. Check the internet, or maybe no one else is as ignorant of these things as I am.
Thanks Shantelle for showing me how to post this. (Something else I am ignorant about.)
Thanks Shantelle for showing me how to post this. (Something else I am ignorant about.)
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Headband and Bow
Okay even if you don't have a girl you should totally check out this site and pass it too all you know. It is for those really cute crocheted headbands. They are 1.5 inches in width, and come in a variety (and I do mean a WIDE variety) of colors. They are on sale for 37 CENTS for each one!!! How awesome is that? Even off sale they are only 60 CENTS. To buy them at a store they are at least $2.50. You can also buy crocheted hats, and different types of flowers to make cute flower bows from, you can buy wider headband as well as headbands made from different materials. Just thought I would pass along the good news!
www.thehairbowcompany.com
www.thehairbowcompany.com
Recipes from Heather :)
I figured I would post the recipes that I shared on Saturday because I already have them typed up. This blog is a great idea!!
Tortellini Salad
1 package frozen cheese tortellini 1 cup broccoli florets
1 6oz. jar marinated artichoke hearts, undrained 2 green onions, sliced
½ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon basil
½ cup prepared Italian dressing Grated Parmesan cheese
Cut up broccoli florets and boil for 1 to 2 minutes then add the tortellini to pan of boiling water with broccoli in it. Cook according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In large bowl, combine all the ingredients except for cheese. Cover, refrigerate 4 to 6 hours to blend flavors. Garnish with cheese. 6 (1 cup) servings.
Blender Rolls
6 ½ - 7 cups bread flour 2 ½ cups hot tap water
2 packages quick rise yeast 1/3 cup sugar
2 teaspoons salt 1 stick of butter
1 egg
Measure flour into a large bowl. Put the remaining ingredients into a blender and push stir until well blended. Pour over flour and stir with a wooden spoon until all the flour is mixed in (I mix in my kitchen aid). Cover with a wet towel and let rise for 1 hour. Shape into rolls and place on a grease baking sheet. Let rise until double, about 20-30 minutes. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes until done. (I also use this recipe to make bread. I put 3 cups of wheat flour and 3 cups bread flour. I follow the directions. Makes two loaves. Bake 30 minutes instead of 20.)
Gourmet Tomato Soup
1 can tomato soup 1 clove of garlic, minced
Italian seasoning to taste cheese
Follow directions for making tomato soup. Add garlic and Italian seasoning. Heat until soup is done. Garnish with cheese.
Turtles
1 ½ cups flour 1 ½ cups quick oats
2/3 teaspoons baking soda 1 ½ cups brown sugar
2 sticks (1 cup) butter 7 ½ tablespoons water
48 (1 pound) light caramels 1 package chocolate chips
Mix together flour, oats, soda, sugar and butter. Cut with pastry blender until crumbly. Pat half of the mixture into an ungreased 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for ten minutes. While baking melt in saucepan the water and caramels. Take mixture out of the oven. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of baked mixture. Drizzle melted caramel over the top. Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over all. Bake at 350 degrees for fifteen more minutes. Cool. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Saturday's little get together
Okay some have asked for the things that were shared Saturday to be posted so they too can reap in the benefits. So here I go...
Grams shared with us the following... 1) To help keep avocados from going brown keep the seed (or pit) with it. I guess Gramps always leaves a seed or two in when he make his guacamole to help with browning. 2) If something burns onto the bottom of a pan DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT throw away the pan. Simply put a little baking soda, and a little water (at least enough to cover the bottom) and put the pan back on the stove and bring the water to a boil. Let it boil for a minute of so and the burnt on food will come off. 3) To help her stay on top of cleaning she simply cleans as she goes. When making a meal when she gets an ingredient out and is done using it she puts it away immediately. This saves on clean up time after you have eaten.
Becky shared with us her wonderful way of making milk go the extra mile in her house. This is what she does. She buys one gallon of whole milk and will mix up one gallon of powdered milk (she uses the morning moo brand). She then pours half a gallon of the whole milk and half a gallon of the powered milk (already mixed mind you) into a washed out milk container. She then adds the remaining half gallon of powered milk into the whole milk container. Shake both containers and low and behold you have two gallons of 1% milk. *okay here is the nutritional facts that I found doing a little research on this...IF you use NONFAT powdered milk (and morning moo has the NONFAT) the nutritional values are the same as 1 % milk. if you use their LOW FAT milk...it is a little more like a 2 % nutritional value* .
Becky also shared with us the fact that there is a Sara Lee's outlet store. It is located on Washington between 40th and Ogden Regional. Jeremy was able to buy the Grandma Sycamore brand for around $1. WHAT A STEAL!
She also shared with us that if you would rather make your own bread you can add oatmeal to it, 1/3 of a cup of oatmeal for every 8 oz. of water. But wait...you can't just simply add oatmeal. You have to add the oatmeal to the water and really let the water soak in. You then add this to the rest of our recipe. By adding oatmeal to your bread you increase the moisture. (I am not sure if I explained this very well so if you have any questions I am sure you could ask Becky and she could clarify).
And lastly she shared with us a scam that happened to her (but luckily she had help so she did not fall for it). If you have something posted on a website for sale (whether it be KSL, Craig's list, or anything like that) be aware that there are people out there who will call you up saying they would like to buy it but cannot pick it up and therefore will send someone to pick it up. They then send you a travelers check (I think that is the kind they send you), enough to pay yourself and the "moving company". THE CHECK IS BAD and there is no way to trace the check back to the original person and therefore you are responsible for the ENTIRE amount of the check and you had your property stolen from you. The way to remedy this is to deal face to face only and cash only! Please girls protect yourselves!
Liz shared with us some family home evening/ primary lessons she had collected over the years. She had a game, song, lesson, picture to color, etc...for every topic. What a wonderful idea to gather things like that so that you are prepared! We then discussed that you can find things like that (all be it that you still have to put your packets together) Desseret book, they have books called Sunday Savers, or Home-spun Fun family home evenings and the church distributed Family home evening manuals, a website called www.sugardoodle.net. that has a lot of ideas, and even the church's website.
Heather shared with us some amazing recipes. I will put those up under a different post so that this one doesn't get to be too long. Thank-you Heather for some AMAZING recipes!
Holly shared with us that she does a majority of her shopping at Walmart because they price match. Many of us knew this but here is something I didn't know. If it is a associated food item, walmart will still match it, just using their off brand (great value I believe is what it is). She also mentioned that for Family home evenings for a few months they chose to focus on learning the prophets. Her children all now know the prophets from Joseph Smith through Thomas S. Monson. Awesome job Holly!
I lastly I shared some websites that I found and they teach you how to make the cute hair bows for girls (including the corker bows). Another one showed how to make the tutus and even a fairy wand! I will list the sites, but just so you know, please do not turn around and try to sale any because the information came to me for free. They aren't making any money from it and they ask that we don't either. I think that is only fair. Okay the websites are...
www.girlythingsbows.com
www.theribbonretreat.com
www.momdot.com (this is the one for tutus and wands and other really great things)
Another one that I just learned about on Sunday that has ADORABLE "quiet books" all ready so that all you have to do is print them off and put the pages in a 4X6 phot album (just a cheap one found at the dollar store will do). They have 4 different books available. 1 New Testament stories (actually you could break this one up into 2 different books) 1 We believe , 1 Prophets and apostles, and 1 Book of Momon Stories. If you look around on the website under LDS prints you can also find that she has all 13 articles of Faith that you can print off for the older children to memorize. Anyways the website is...
http://www.simplyfreshdesigns.com/category/quiet-books/
Inspired by Holly teaching all of her kids the prophets I am currently working on a "quiet book" that will be in the same format as the one found on that website, but will have all the latter day prophets and one the deals specifically with the Sacrament. I will let you all know when I finish them and maybe we can add two more quiet books to the stack. I also know that this lady who runs that website intends to do an Old Testament Stories...so I will let you know if and when she does.
I also shared my homemade laundry soap. It costs around $30 to make. It lasts me 6 months (Tyrel and I figured it out the other night we have been making our own laundry soap now for about 1 1/2 - 2 years and we have only had to make the stuff 3-4 times. With that the total cost is $90-$120 FOR TWO YEARS worth of laundry soap). I only have to use AT MOST 1/4 cup of the soap. Again I will list the recipe on a later post. It is so easy to make, and I LOVE IT. I also shared a homemade fabric Softener but I later learned that I made it wrong so what the girls saw Saturday is NOT what is was suppose to look like. I have learned my lesson and will be trying it again here shortly. I will keep you updated on it.
I think that is about all...or at least that is about all I can remember. Plus I just realized how long this post really is. Again recipes to come a little later...probably tonight!
Grams shared with us the following... 1) To help keep avocados from going brown keep the seed (or pit) with it. I guess Gramps always leaves a seed or two in when he make his guacamole to help with browning. 2) If something burns onto the bottom of a pan DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT throw away the pan. Simply put a little baking soda, and a little water (at least enough to cover the bottom) and put the pan back on the stove and bring the water to a boil. Let it boil for a minute of so and the burnt on food will come off. 3) To help her stay on top of cleaning she simply cleans as she goes. When making a meal when she gets an ingredient out and is done using it she puts it away immediately. This saves on clean up time after you have eaten.
Becky shared with us her wonderful way of making milk go the extra mile in her house. This is what she does. She buys one gallon of whole milk and will mix up one gallon of powdered milk (she uses the morning moo brand). She then pours half a gallon of the whole milk and half a gallon of the powered milk (already mixed mind you) into a washed out milk container. She then adds the remaining half gallon of powered milk into the whole milk container. Shake both containers and low and behold you have two gallons of 1% milk. *okay here is the nutritional facts that I found doing a little research on this...IF you use NONFAT powdered milk (and morning moo has the NONFAT) the nutritional values are the same as 1 % milk. if you use their LOW FAT milk...it is a little more like a 2 % nutritional value* .
Becky also shared with us the fact that there is a Sara Lee's outlet store. It is located on Washington between 40th and Ogden Regional. Jeremy was able to buy the Grandma Sycamore brand for around $1. WHAT A STEAL!
She also shared with us that if you would rather make your own bread you can add oatmeal to it, 1/3 of a cup of oatmeal for every 8 oz. of water. But wait...you can't just simply add oatmeal. You have to add the oatmeal to the water and really let the water soak in. You then add this to the rest of our recipe. By adding oatmeal to your bread you increase the moisture. (I am not sure if I explained this very well so if you have any questions I am sure you could ask Becky and she could clarify).
And lastly she shared with us a scam that happened to her (but luckily she had help so she did not fall for it). If you have something posted on a website for sale (whether it be KSL, Craig's list, or anything like that) be aware that there are people out there who will call you up saying they would like to buy it but cannot pick it up and therefore will send someone to pick it up. They then send you a travelers check (I think that is the kind they send you), enough to pay yourself and the "moving company". THE CHECK IS BAD and there is no way to trace the check back to the original person and therefore you are responsible for the ENTIRE amount of the check and you had your property stolen from you. The way to remedy this is to deal face to face only and cash only! Please girls protect yourselves!
Liz shared with us some family home evening/ primary lessons she had collected over the years. She had a game, song, lesson, picture to color, etc...for every topic. What a wonderful idea to gather things like that so that you are prepared! We then discussed that you can find things like that (all be it that you still have to put your packets together) Desseret book, they have books called Sunday Savers, or Home-spun Fun family home evenings and the church distributed Family home evening manuals, a website called www.sugardoodle.net. that has a lot of ideas, and even the church's website.
Heather shared with us some amazing recipes. I will put those up under a different post so that this one doesn't get to be too long. Thank-you Heather for some AMAZING recipes!
Holly shared with us that she does a majority of her shopping at Walmart because they price match. Many of us knew this but here is something I didn't know. If it is a associated food item, walmart will still match it, just using their off brand (great value I believe is what it is). She also mentioned that for Family home evenings for a few months they chose to focus on learning the prophets. Her children all now know the prophets from Joseph Smith through Thomas S. Monson. Awesome job Holly!
I lastly I shared some websites that I found and they teach you how to make the cute hair bows for girls (including the corker bows). Another one showed how to make the tutus and even a fairy wand! I will list the sites, but just so you know, please do not turn around and try to sale any because the information came to me for free. They aren't making any money from it and they ask that we don't either. I think that is only fair. Okay the websites are...
www.girlythingsbows.com
www.theribbonretreat.com
www.momdot.com (this is the one for tutus and wands and other really great things)
Another one that I just learned about on Sunday that has ADORABLE "quiet books" all ready so that all you have to do is print them off and put the pages in a 4X6 phot album (just a cheap one found at the dollar store will do). They have 4 different books available. 1 New Testament stories (actually you could break this one up into 2 different books) 1 We believe , 1 Prophets and apostles, and 1 Book of Momon Stories. If you look around on the website under LDS prints you can also find that she has all 13 articles of Faith that you can print off for the older children to memorize. Anyways the website is...
http://www.simplyfreshdesigns.com/category/quiet-books/
Inspired by Holly teaching all of her kids the prophets I am currently working on a "quiet book" that will be in the same format as the one found on that website, but will have all the latter day prophets and one the deals specifically with the Sacrament. I will let you all know when I finish them and maybe we can add two more quiet books to the stack. I also know that this lady who runs that website intends to do an Old Testament Stories...so I will let you know if and when she does.
I also shared my homemade laundry soap. It costs around $30 to make. It lasts me 6 months (Tyrel and I figured it out the other night we have been making our own laundry soap now for about 1 1/2 - 2 years and we have only had to make the stuff 3-4 times. With that the total cost is $90-$120 FOR TWO YEARS worth of laundry soap). I only have to use AT MOST 1/4 cup of the soap. Again I will list the recipe on a later post. It is so easy to make, and I LOVE IT. I also shared a homemade fabric Softener but I later learned that I made it wrong so what the girls saw Saturday is NOT what is was suppose to look like. I have learned my lesson and will be trying it again here shortly. I will keep you updated on it.
I think that is about all...or at least that is about all I can remember. Plus I just realized how long this post really is. Again recipes to come a little later...probably tonight!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Electronically Disabled Gramma
You all know how lost I am in the world of electronic gadgets, thus the test by Craig showing me how to enter a post. I know you all wonder at anyone being so dense but it is real. Trust me.
Thanks Shantelle for such a fun idea and program. It will be enjoyed by all. You are a boon to Long family togetherness. You touch my heart and make me better. Love you. Gramma
Thanks Shantelle for such a fun idea and program. It will be enjoyed by all. You are a boon to Long family togetherness. You touch my heart and make me better. Love you. Gramma
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Monthly Menu Planning Made Simple
I have always struggled creating weekly dinner menus. It's not that I don't like the concept- I think planning ahead of time is essential in staying on top of things. I just always seem to draw a blank on what to prepare. I looked at what I had written down for the coming week- spaghetti, hawaiin haystacks, soup & sandwiches, crock pot stew.... where I then had an organizational idea. Instead of creating dinner menus day to day, why not create 7 daily food themes (one for each day of the week) and then jot down lists of possible dinners.
Roast/potatoes, stew, soups, chicken.... anything made in a crock pot!
There is SO many dinner ideas in this category! Enchiladas, tacos, ham fried rice, orange chicken, burritos, sushi, baklava, etc!!!
This is a day that I felt was important for my little family. I get stuck in the routine of making the same things over and over again- and I want my daughter to experience new foods (so she won't be a picky eater like her momma!) This will be the day where I open up the good ole recipe book and try something new! And if we like it- I can add it to our Friday's Favorite list!
This will be the day where we might finish off some leftovers, or do something crazy like breakfast for dinner. (I love breakfast for dinner and I can see us doing this a lot- crepes, french toast, waffles, omelets, YUMMY!)
Love this day! I can serve up spaghetti, lasagna, pizza, fettuccine, panini, risotto, ravioli... there is 7 weeks of different Italian foods right there! No more spaghetti twice a week!
This is also known as pizza night :). But it can also be where we eat all our favorites...chili and corn bread, hawaiin haystacks, pizza, chicken pot pie, chicken caesar salad, etc
I originally came up with this themed day in the fall but can easily be adapted to summer with the addition of salads and BBQs!
What I like about this plan is that it makes sense in my plan-a-holic brain. I always know what to expect for dinner on any given day, and if I am struggling for a menu item- I simply look at our theme and google for ideas! I just like that this provides some structure for planning a menu.
I dare you to try this and see how much easier planning a menu really is!
Happy EATING!!!
For example, we eat a lot of Italian food. It seems like we eat spaghetti at least twice a week- and that gets old after awhile. So I created "Italian Thursday". I then wrote down all the Italian food that I love, and voila! I have a month's worth of Thursdays all planned! Seriously, menu planning became so much easier after I decided to create menu lists instead!
Here is our week in food: Crock Pot Sunday, Multi-Cultural Monday, Try Something New Tuesday, Wild Card Wednesday, Italian Thursday, Friday's Favorites, Soup, Salad and Sandwiches Saturday.
Roast/potatoes, stew, soups, chicken.... anything made in a crock pot!
There is SO many dinner ideas in this category! Enchiladas, tacos, ham fried rice, orange chicken, burritos, sushi, baklava, etc!!!
This is a day that I felt was important for my little family. I get stuck in the routine of making the same things over and over again- and I want my daughter to experience new foods (so she won't be a picky eater like her momma!) This will be the day where I open up the good ole recipe book and try something new! And if we like it- I can add it to our Friday's Favorite list!
This will be the day where we might finish off some leftovers, or do something crazy like breakfast for dinner. (I love breakfast for dinner and I can see us doing this a lot- crepes, french toast, waffles, omelets, YUMMY!)
Love this day! I can serve up spaghetti, lasagna, pizza, fettuccine, panini, risotto, ravioli... there is 7 weeks of different Italian foods right there! No more spaghetti twice a week!
This is also known as pizza night :). But it can also be where we eat all our favorites...chili and corn bread, hawaiin haystacks, pizza, chicken pot pie, chicken caesar salad, etc
I originally came up with this themed day in the fall but can easily be adapted to summer with the addition of salads and BBQs!I dare you to try this and see how much easier planning a menu really is!
Happy EATING!!!
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
The First
The family is expanding so fast and it is always nice to hear from the other girls in the family. I thought that this would be a nice way to be able to stay in touch and be able to share our ideas (such as new recipes, crafts, etc.) and talents (you guys have so many) with each other more often. I also thought that this would be a good place to show off our work with each other and get some positive feedback. I know I benefit and learn so much from all you wonderful Long women and I am so grateful to be apart of this family and the blessings that come from it. THANK-YOU!
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