Retro Housewife: The Remix

Cubano Hash

2012-03-12T12:01:00.003-07:00

I had this for the first time, months and months ago....

The second time around it tasted even better than I remembered.

I love sausage and the mixture of the relish made of mustard and pickles compliments it so well.

The really awesome part? It takes only a half of a bottle of beer. That means I got to drink the other half of George Killian's Irish Red. Hey, I didn't want to waste the bottle?

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
3/4 pound ground pork
1/3 pound (1/2 package) chorizo, peeled and chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon cumin (1/3 palmful)
1/4 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 bottle of beer
2 Portuguese rolls or 2 sandwich-size English muffins, split and toasted
4 dill pickles, chopped
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
4 deli-cut slices of Swiss cheese
2 tablespoons butter
4 eggs

(I know, seems like alot but this comes together pretty quickly)

Pre-heat the oven to 400°F.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with the EVOO, one turn of the pan. Add pork and brown, 3-4 minutes. Add chorizo, onion and garlic and season mixture with cumin, allspice, salt and pepper and cook for 7-8 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, cook a minute longer, then add beer.

Arrange bread on baking sheet. Toast the split bread.

Coarsely chop the pickles and reserve.

Cover bread with yellow mustard, then top with mounds of hash and a slice of Swiss, folded in half. Melt the cheese in the oven, 2-3 minutes.

Melt butter in medium size nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add eggs to melted butter and fry to desired doneness.

Top the hash with fried eggs and pickles and serve.

This is a Rachael Ray recipe. You can find it here

Chef in Training Tuesday
Tempt My Tummy
Tuesdays at the Table

Pain Perdu (or as we Americans call it French Toast)

2012-03-04T07:57:00.003-08:00

I'm baaaaaack!

And better than ever.

I got my personal life under control, I will be cohabitating with fellow foodie and cook and I will be blogging away!

One of the cuisines my sexyman (that's what I call him) loves is New Orleans food. Cajun or Creole. It doesn't matter, that stuff is gooood.

So this morning we made Pain Perdu, or french toast as it's more commonly called.

Pain Perdu translates from french as "lost bread". It was a way to use up day old french bread and turn it into something exquisite.

This recipe comes from "My New Orleans The Cookbook" by John Besh.

French Toast

5 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup half and half
1/4 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
2 pinches ground nutmeg
2 pinches ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch of salt
2 tablespoons Grand Marnier, optional
2 tbsp canola oil
12 slices day old, 1-inch thick french bread

Beat together the eggs and sugar in a large mixing bowl until they are well mixed. Add the half and half, orange juice, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and Grand Marnier, if you like, and mix well.

Heat the oil in a large skillet (we used cast iron skillet) over moderate heat. Working with 3-4 slices of bread at a time, dip the slices of bread into the egg mixture and submerge for a few moments. Remove the bread from the egg mixture and put into the skillet.

Fry the bread, turning once, until golden brown on the both sides. Repeat with the remaining slices of bread. Serve the french toast hot with homemade preserves, warm syrup or powdered sugar.

I want Softlips under the mistletoe!

2011-12-19T10:57:00.000-08:00

I love when companies have limited editions scents/flavors.

Softlips has a limited edition holiday season flavors.

Winter Mint

Sugar Cookie

Sugar and Spice

Sugar Plum Berry

What I love about Softlips is your lips are NOT greasy! You can apply this chapstick, have silky soft lips and then kiss under the mistletoe without your significant other feeling like they just kissed a greasy pig.

click the above video for style tips

What a great stocking stuffer!!!

www.softlips.com

www.facebook.com/softlips

www.twitter.com/ilovesoftlips

www.youtube.com/ilovesoftlips

Would you like to win the new flavors of Softlips products?

Like Softlips on facebook
Like Softlips on twitter
like me on facebook
like me on twitter
follow my blog
add my button to your blog
add my blog to your blog roll
blog about this giveaway
tell me your favorite flavor

contest ends Dec. 27, 2011. Winner will be contacted via email, and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received Softlips products for review but was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Good luck!

Kushyfoot for a Kushy Christmas Season

2011-12-19T10:35:00.000-08:00

I was so lucky to receive Kushyfoot products for review.

I love accessories and don't really by them for myself near enough.

I was sent the Kushyfoot tights. These were very nicely made, thick and comfortable black tights with a diamond pattern.

These tights are available in black, brown, grey, navy and purple. The ribbed tight is made in the same colors except for navy.

I never wear tights. I don't know why. I wear dresses and skirts alot in the summer with no pantyhose or tights but haven't really carried the skirts and dresses over into the fall and winter.

But these tights are soo cute, and I like the slimming look it gives me with a nice skirt and sweater.

The other product I was sent to review were a pair of ZEBRA PRINT (anyone who knows me knows my signature is zebra print thank you very much) slippers that you can slip on when you are partying it up at holiday parties and your feet are killing you from your dress shoes and high heels. They are small and fold up to fit any purse or pocketbook.

They are soft, flexible and yet still elegant. Recommended retail price of only $9.99, trust me your feet will thank you! Have you ever been stuck at an event with uncomfortable shoes? It really dampens your mood.

Both these products would make great gifts for the holiday season. Especially for the fashion savvy friend or family member. It's hard to pick out clothes for someone, but alot easier to pick out accessories that they would enjoy!

Kushyfoot

Cinnamon Roll Pumpkin Sheet Cake

2011-11-09T05:51:00.000-08:00

I found this recipe on pinterest.

It's originally called Cinnamon Roll Pumpkin Vanilla Sheet Cake but I didn't use vanilla pudding in the recipe. Instead I used Jello's seasonal flavor, Pumpkin Spice.

Cinnamon Roll Pumpkin Sheet Cake

1 box yellow cake mix

4 eggs

1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil

1/2 cup milk or buttermilk

3.4 ounce box Pumpkin Pie Spice Pudding Mix (or vanilla)

1/2 cup sour cream

15 ounce can pumpkin

1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter

3/4 cup packed light brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3/4 cups powdered sugar

1/4-1/2 cup heavy cream (start w 1/4 cup and add a little more cream if needed)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. and spray a jelly roll pan with non stick cooking spray.

2. Place cake mix, eggs, oil, milk, pudding, sour cream and pumpkin into a stand or electric mixer, beating until well combined, about 1 1/2 minutes. Pour into prepared pan, spreading evenly.

3. Place butter into a microwave safe bowl and melt, about 30-40 seconds. Add brown sugar and cinnamon to bowl, mixing until combined. Drizzle mixture evenly over cake then take a knife and run it through to swirl.

4. Bake cake for 30-35 minutes, until cooked through and remove. Place powdered sugar and cream into a large bowl and mix until creamy and smooth. Drizzle over warm cake then let cool for 20 minutes before cutting into square

Friday Funnies

2011-11-04T09:29:00.000-07:00

~Costume Super Center Review~

2011-10-28T10:06:00.000-07:00

Here is Jasmine's first Halloween. We call this costume, "The Angry Ladybug"

Here is her 2nd Halloween. We call this costume "The Angry Bunny"

Now this isn't a good picture but we are finally moving on up. This year she is "The Confused Monkey" (but at least she isn't angry, I guess those baby anger management classes have finally paid off)

I love Costume Super Center. I'm always amazed by how fast the shipping is.

My favorite is the kid's animal costumes. For some reason I think it's just adorable to see little babies and toddlers dressed in these animal costumes. My kids have always been obsessed with animal as toddlers.

Jasmine doesn't call monkeys, monkeys. She calls them "OOooh oooh ahhh ahhh" -the sound a monkey makes.

When this costume arrived she didn't want to take it off. Now I have to hunt the house for the body part to the costume because hours later she eventually took it off somewhere? Anytime we even tried to take it off she would get mad.

What I love about Costume Super Center is the prices are affordable enough I can buy more than one costume. Children sometimes change their minds about what they want to be, or you have several Halloween functions to attend and I like being able to wear different costumes for functions and different weather conditions. We live in southern Ohio so sometimes Halloween is warm and sometimes it's VERY cold.

It's also nice for her age to have several costumes on hand for play. She loves animals so having a monkey, a cat and a dog costume would be great for her because those are her favorite animals.

Check out

www.costumesupercenter.com

and follow them on twitter

I received the costume for review, but was not required to write a positive review. All thoughst and opinions are my own.

2011-10-27T08:03:00.001-07:00

Hershey Chocolate Cake and Peanut Butter Frosting

2011-10-25T04:26:00.000-07:00

Hershey Chocolate Cake recipe

for the peanut butter frosting I just beat peanut butter, powdered sugar, milk and vanilla extract until I had the consistency I wanted. The taste is amazing!

LAST DAY TO ENTER LOW ENTRY GIVEAWAY

2011-10-25T03:48:00.000-07:00

PREFENSE HAND SANITIZER

GO ENTER AND WIN WIN WIN

Tropical Traditions Coconut Cream Concentrate Giveaway

2011-10-24T08:17:00.000-07:00

What is Coconut Cream ConcentrateTM?

Coconut Cream Concentrate is certified organic whole coconut meat in concentrated form. It contains no additives* (not even water). The dried coconut meat is ground very finely, giving it a creamy consistency due to its high fat content. Since it is 70% fat, it is a rich source of pure coconut oil. Note: this is a food, not a cooking oil.

This is a very versatile product. You can make coconut milk with this product. You can add it to smoothies, soups or make ice cream. It can also be mixed right into batters.

We tried the Banana Orange Smoothie recipe from Tropical Traditions Recipes

It was very yummy

We also made Chicken Red Curry

Alot of thai recipes call for coconut milk

Would you like to win your very own jar of Coconut Cream Concentrate?

Mandatory Entry:

Be a blog follower, leave your email address in your first entry and sign up for Tropical Traditions Newsletter.

Extra Entries:

1. Like Tropical Traditions on facebook (3 entries)

2. Follow Tropical Traditions on twitter

3. Like me on facebook (3 entries)

4. Follow me on twitter

5. Leave a comment telling me if you have tried any of Tropical Traditions products.

6. Add my button to your blog (3 entries)

7. Add my blog to your blog roll.

8. Share this on twitter

9. Share this on facebook

10. Blog about this giveaway (3 entries)

Contest Ends Nov. 20, 2011. Winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received a jar of coconut concentrate for review. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Freschetta Proud To Support Pink GIVEAWAY

2011-10-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month and Freschetta is doing their part to support research by presenting the FRESCHETTA PROUD TO SUPPORT PINK Program! Now til Oct. 31 when you purchase specially marked packages of FRESCHETTA pizzas and Artisan Pizza Crusts, you will be helping FRESCHETTA reach their goal of $50,000 donation to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

Specially marked products are printed with codes that you can enter at www.proudtosupportpink.com. For each code entry, the makers of FRESCHETTA products will donate $1 to this center.

Would you like to win a FRESCHETTA PROUD TO SUPPORT PINK giveaway pack?

Included will be:

1. A coupon to try any Freschetta frozen pizza
2. A pair of Proud To Support Pink earphones
3. A pair to giveaway to a friend

Mandatory Entry:

1. Like me on facebook and be a blog follower (include your email address)

Extra Entries:

2. Do you know someone who has/had breast cancer?

3. Like Freschetta on facebook

4. Follow me on Twitter

5. Follow Freschetta on twitter

6. Add my button to your blog

7. Add my blog to your blog roll

8. Blog about this giveaway

9. Share on facebook

10. Share on twitter

Contest ends Oct. 30, winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received the kit for review. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Rebecca St. James, "What Is He Thinking??" Giveaway

2011-10-10T14:45:00.000-07:00

If you read my blog post entitled, "An Explanation of Sorts", you can understand why I wanted to read this book lol.

I'm back out there 'on the market'. What a catch too. A small army of kids, emotional baggage and haven't dated in 18 years!

Soooo, how great is it that Rebecca St. James, Christian musical artist extraordinare, would write a book letting us know....

What Is He Thinking??

In WHAT IS HE THINKING??, Rebecca interviews a range of men from high-profile types to the guys next door, men that every woman can relate to. Although the interviews focus on single guys ages 20-35, Rebecca also includes words of wisdom from older mentors she respects who have been successfully married for years, people like her dad, life coach, and pastor.

Rebecca St. James, ask men all kinds of candid questions. You may be surprised by the answers. Rebecca also discusses her own dating life and her hope for the future.

I haven't finished all of the book yet, but I like what I have read so far. THIS time, in looking for a soulmate, I'm going to rely on God. Not myself. So this book is a great read for me!

Book Detail Page

Would you like to win your own copy of What Is He Thinking??

Mandatory Entry:

1. Be a blog follower and leave your email address

Extra Entries

2. Like Rebecca St. James on facebook

3. Like me on facebook

4. Follow Rebecca on twitter

5. Follow me on twitter

6. Share this giveaway on twitter

7. Share this giveaway on facebook

8. Blog about this giveaway

9. Add my button to your blog

10. Add my blog to your blog roll

11. What is your favorite Rebecca St. James song?

Contest ends, Nov 7, 2011. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services

mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I

only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255:

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Edenfantasys: Have you gotten your Halloween Costume Yet?

2011-10-03T10:30:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's OCTOBER?

It's one of my favorite months of the year.

What is so appealing about October? Apples, pumpkins, fall festivals, hayrides, bonfires and HALLOWEEN.

What makes Halloween so appealing to people?

I think one of the biggest reasons people love Halloween is the chance to dress up and be different for a day. Costumes are so fun!

Don't limit costumes to just trick or treating or a neighborhood halloween party. Costumes can be fun in the bedroom as well. You may just find yourself less inhibited than usual. You can escape the bedroom boredom and create an environment that is free, sexy and fun.

Have you ever asked your husband what turns him on?

Is it a maid uniform?

How fun would it be for your husband to walk into the bedroom and you are making the bed and sweeping the floors in this?

Or how about a Retro Stewardess

Costumes are a great way to add spark to the bedroom, if you are uncomfortable in lingerie. Costumes can be more flattering on all body types in some cases.

Some of the costumes at edenfantasys are fine to wear at costume parties (not lingerie) and some are probably better suited for personal use.

I think having a Halloween party for just you and your husband would be a wonderful idea! Or having a Halloween party for adults only, why should just the kids get to dress up and get candy?

Don't forget the gloves and accessories that will add spark to any costume or lingerie

Check out Sexy Costumes at Edenfantasys

Carlito C. Caterpillar's MathHouse Game Card Set Giveaway

2011-10-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

One word

M A T H

Did you shudder in horror?

Helping children with math homework is one of the most common parental complaints. What is it about math?

Math can be hard to explain, especially to children. With this system, you are using games to help children understand.

Children mostly learn by sensory experiences. That's why preschools utilize games and songs to help children learn.

With C. Caterpillar's MathHouse Game Card set, The material is presented in 3stages, with a total of 20 steps and 2 games in each step covering quantity, numeration, and operations.

You can order this system at www.cp3la.com

Would you like to win your very own set of Game Cards to teach your children mad awesome math skillz?

Sure ya do

Mandatory Entry

1. Be a blog follower and leave your email address

Extra Entries

2. Like C. Caterpillar's Mathhouse Games on facebook (3 entries)

3. Like me on facebook (5 entries)

4. Follow me on twitter

5. Blog about this giveaway (5 entries)

6. Add my button to your blog

7. Add my blog to your blog roll

8. Share on twitter

9. Share on facebook

Contest ends Nov. 1, 2011. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or

services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it

on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally

and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance

with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the

Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Prefense Review and Giveaway

2011-09-28T06:51:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year when our families start getting coughs and sniffles. One of the reasons I dislike cold weather. I try to make sure I'm getting all my vitamins, juicing vegetables and fruit and sanitizing/washing my hands frequently. I've been known to go a whole winter without even a single cold!

I discovered a product called Prefense

One application LAST ALL DAY!

I've never seen anything like it in the stores. Another reason why I love it, is it's alcohol free. My hands get dry very easily with certain soaps and hand sanitizers.

Another reason why I love this product... it includes organic essential oils. You know how I love my essential oils.

This sanitizer is safe for your child to take to school, it's non toxic and non flammable. Because the hand sanitizer is so long lasting, it is way more cost effective than other hand sanitizers. 1.5 oz Prefense Foaming Hand Sanitizer offers 120 applications, costing only $.08 per day, compared to $1.20 per day with alcohol hand sanitizers.

You can order Prefense at their website http://www.prefense.com/ or on Amazon

Would you like your own bottle of Prefense?

Mandatory Entry:

1. Be a blog follower and leave your email address

Extra Entries

2. Like Prefense on facebook (3 entries)

3. Like me on facebook (3 entries)

4. Follow Prefense on twitter

5. Follow me on twitter

6. Tweet about this giveaway using @Prefense in tweet.

7. Share this giveaway on facebook

8. Tell me why you would like to win this giveaway

9. Blog about this giveaway (5 entries)

10. Place my button on your blog

11. Add my blog to your blog roll

Contest ends 10/25/11. Winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received a bottle of Prefense to review. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Pizza Alla Romana

2011-09-26T18:34:00.000-07:00

This is from the food network site.

I used my pizza dough recipe

2 teaspoons salt

9 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 thin slices prosciutto, cut into thin strips

6 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced

1 large Roma tomato, cored, seeded, and diced

1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt

1/4 cup roughly chopped basil leaves

Using your hands, press the dough so that it fits evenly across the entire pan. Spread the prosciutto strips evenly over the surface of the dough, then top with the sliced mozzarella. Sprinkle the chopped tomatoes over the top then drizzle with the remaining 6 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle the top evenly with basil and the kosher salt and bake until golden brown, about 15 to 17 minutes. Rotate the focaccia half way through the cook time to ensure even browning.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving.

Tuesdays at the Table
Tempt My Tummy
This Chick Cooks
What's Cooking Thursday
Full PlateThursday

The Shunning DVD Review and GIVEAWAY

2011-09-21T04:10:00.000-07:00

I mostly read non-fiction books. I'm always trying to feed my brain. But I have one fiction weakness... Amish books.

Especially Beverly Lewis books.

I can't put them down. I usually finish them in one day.

So imagine my surprise and excitment that there is a MOVIE of The Shunning!

The movie is about a young Amish girl set on a path that she questions. Once she finds out she is actually adopted, she further questions her life and what path she should be on.

I really enjoyed the movie. I think you would too. Would you like the chance to win a copy of this DVD?

Mandatory Entry:

1. Go to facebook and like The Shunning. Be a blog follower, and leave your email address in your mandatory entry.

Extra Entries

2. Go to The Shunning website and tell me who plays Katie Lapp (3 entries)

3. Like me on facebook (3 entries)

4. Share this giveaway on facebook

5. Follow me on twitter

6. Tweet this giveaway

7. Blog about this giveaway (4 entries)

8. Add my button to your blog

9. Add my blog to your blog roll

10. Tell me what your favorite Beverly Lewis book is

Contest ends 10/7
Winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received a copy of this DVD to review. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

An Explanation of Sorts

2011-09-20T07:37:00.000-07:00

I have went back and forth whether to explain while I haven't been posting as much. Considering this is a fun blog about recipes, garage sale finds and giveaways. I don't get into personal info here.

But I keep feeling more and more guilty for not explaining.

I don't remember if I have really mentioned it here but my 4th pregnancy I had HELLP Syndrome. I was in the prenatal ICU and on the verge of losing my life at any moment and the baby's. Everyone that came into the room had such a solemn face. I remember thinking judging from the looks on everyone's faces, 'Am I going to die?' But there was one person that didn't have that "look", my husband. Later people told me he was more worried about what he was going to eat that day than about me.

This wasn't something new, this lack of empathy on his part.

After surviving that week, having an emergency c-section and giving birth to a beautiful 1 pound baby girl I came home without my baby (she stayed in the NICU) to a house that was destroyed. You see my husband to refused to cook or clean.

For the next 4 months we lived on an emotional roller coaster. We watched our baby struggle for hours trying to breathe without a ventilator. We saw her skin peel from lack of moisture, we watched her tiny body continue to form. We visited every single day. Everyday you walked into that tiny room and washed your hands for 3 minutes and composed yourself for when the nurse would walk into the room and inform you of the baby's health and struggles. We were wonderous through this. Partners in cheering this baby on to fight hard and live because she was going to come home and a have a bright future in our close knit family.

The day finally came for OUR turn to walk in with a carseat and bring our baby home! Husband was in a bad mood that day because he didn't think the nurse that day was friendly. Then when we brought her home, I had hard time figuring out her oxygen tank. This angered him even more.

From that moment on he was lost. I don't know if he disconnected because our lives had changed so dramatically. The laughter and spontaniety of our lives were gone. In exchange we had hospitalizations, doctor appts, therapy appts, and specialists. We could not take the baby out in public since she had lung disease (not to mention an oxygen tank and an apnea monitor). I can't tell you how much his support would have helped me. I was so depressed.

I did it all alone. He just seemed miserable. I woke every 3 hours through the night to feed her and I slept on the couch with her since that was where the oxygen machine was.

He started to leave alot to go watch football games with the boys. I was a zombie. I couldn't keep up with the house and my other 3 children and all of the baby's special needs.

Before the baby turned one I was pregnant again but got dropped off at the ER due to pain in my abdomen. It was an ectopic pregnancy. I called my parents since he dropped me off at the hospital alone and I was going to have surgery. I came home and he never comforted me or talked to me about the pregnancy. Just continued to be distant and cold.

A few weeks after that I found out he had been cheating on me after we brought the baby home from the NICU. With several women, using facebook.

Why any woman would be that hard up for attention, I will never understand.

Somehow all this got turned around on me. He cheated because he wasn't happy. It was my fault. I didn't keep an immaculate home while caring for a sick preemie apparently. The house was too chaotic (yes we had 2 dogs, 1 cat and 4 kids).

I wanted this to work, I didn't want to lose my family. I had been with husband since I was 17 years old. I became a shell of my former self. Trying to be a stepford wife, trying to never make a mistake. Because I was never allowed to make mistakes.

Finally last October, he left and said he was staying at his dad's a few days to think about his life. He never came back home. I didn't know what was going on. He told me there was no one else. He was just thinking about things..and that he was being faithful and I was expected to be as well. If he even thought I talked to another guy he would freak out.

Come to find out he was living with another woman, not his dad. He didn't tell me until March he wanted a divorce. I said Ok. But he continued to be jealous and nosy about me and we continued a physical relationship (I still didn't know he was living with the other woman).

Then when I found out they had been living together I sent her message letting her know that he had been playing us both. That he was still sleeping with me this whole time.

She didn't care. She actually rewarded him by renting a bigger house for them all to live in and they went on vacation (on our 14th wedding anniversary). Right now as I'm typing this they are on an Alaskan cruise. While I had to get groceries from a food pantry last week and I have no running vehicle for transportation and 4 kids. We haven't even filed for divorce.

Our kids are confused. They don't understand why he does everything for her kids but not them. Last week he saw them one evening, knowing he was going to be gone for a week on a cruise. So that's one night in 2 weeks he seen our kids, but yet he went to her kids school for a meet the teacher, babysat them, and watched them play soccer.

I have mixed feelings about them both. Sometimes, I want to be his friend. We were always good friends. But then I think, who needs a friend like that. With her, sometimes I hate her. Other times, I feel sorry for her that she would even make the choice to be with someone like that. But then when I think about how bad I needed my husband after the birth of our baby and she was all too happy to distract him, I hate her again. Obviously there is hurt and low self esteem in her past to make her even want to be with someone who has done what he has done to her and to me.

Through counseling I'm getting help trying to get back to myself. For 18 years I have been with a sociopath and a sex addict. I guess I thought things would change after we went through our daughter's struggles. I thought that would change him seeing his 1 pound baby struggle to live and seeing his wife close to death. He changed all right, just not for the better.

So through depression, struggles with anxiety and lack of money I have had hard time posting. I haven't really had the money to make new recipes.

Good news is, through all this God gave me a second chance at life. A good life. Being happy with myself or with a partner. I have met someone who couldn't be more opposite than my sociopathic ex. I'm better just from knowing him. Makes me realize how bad I had it for so long, and I will never settle for less than I deserve ever again. The minute you settle for less than you deserve you get even less than that. And this is just a short explanation. I could never get into all that I have been through with him.

I don't think Angie S. will ever understant the pain that she has put everyone through just because she lacks the self esteem to find a good man and have high standards not just for herself but for her kids. I raised my standards, my ex doesn't even meet them now. You will be amazed at what type of significant other you can attract when you refuse to settle for liars and cheaters.

So I hope to get back to posting more. My boyfriend loves food just as much as I do and he is a better cook than me (just don't tell him I said that).

So don't lose faith in me. Look forward to new recipes in the future!

Recipes From Blogland: Birthday Cake Blondies

2011-09-19T11:27:00.000-07:00

LOVIN FROM THE OVEN

Benefits of Drinking Coconut Water: PHENOM At GNC

2011-09-15T04:20:00.000-07:00

What is coconut water?

Coconut water is what you will find when you open up a coconut before it matures. Once it matures the water solidifies to the coconut flesh we usually see.

This water is a naturally isotonic beverage with zero fat and contains more potassium than a banana.

Coconut water is so hydrating, it's a natural and healthy choice as a sport drink or after workout drink.

GNC now offers coconut water that is infused with GNC vitamins and minerals! This line is called PHENOM

Choose from these different varieties:

Phenom-Hydro
has added electrolytes
promotoes hydration
Pure flavor

Phenom-Mega V
added electrolytes and multivitamins
vitamin rich
Pure flavor, Pineapple Punch, Orange Guava Passion

Phenom-Energy
with electrolytes, multivitamins and energizing ingredients
enhanced with B vitamins to support energy production, plus caffeine
Lemon Mojito, Acai Peach Flavors

When can coconut water be useful to you?

When you’re sick

When you take medication

After you exercise

After alcohol consumption

From heat

During pregnancy

As you age

Did you know coconut water is an all natural sport and energy drink
Top 5 Reasons to drink coconut water as an athlete

Did you know you can help prevent a hangover with coconut water??
How to Prevent a Hangover with Coconut Water

CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE
PHENOM WATER

free coupon for PHENOM™ until May 15.

Like GNC on facebook
Follow GNC on twitter

Do a search on benefits of coconut water and tell me what you think?
What flavor would you be interested in trying?

Cauliflower Gratin

2011-09-05T11:41:00.000-07:00

uhhhhhhhhhhh not the best picture.

This is a recipe from Jessica Seinfeld's second book, Double Delicious.

Cauliflower Gratin

1 medium head cauliflower

1 tbsp butter

2 tsp flour

1 cup nonfat milk

1/2 cup cheese

1/2 cup butternut squash or carrot puree

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

2 tbsp grated Parmesan

1. Preheat oven to 400 f. Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Cut the cauliflower into bite size florets. Blanch for 2 to 3 mins so that they just begin to get tender but are still firm. Drain in a colander and set aside.

2. In the same saucepan, melt the margarine. Whisk in the flour and cook 1 min over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the milk to prevent lumps from forming and bring to a boil. The mixture will begin to thicken. Cook 2 to 3 mins more. Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, butternut squash or carrot puree, salt and pepper.

3. Add the cauliflower to the cheese mixture and transfer to a greased 9 inch baking dish. Top with grated Parmesan. Bake for 15 mins until the gratin is bubbly and the top begins to brown. Serve immediately.

Great way to get kids to eat some veggies ;)

Tempt My Tummy
Tasty Tuesday

Easy Yummy Waffles

2011-09-03T11:43:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

4 teaspoons baking powder

2 tablespoons white sugar

2 eggs

1 1/2 cups warm milk

1/3 cup butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1.In a large bowl, mix together flour, salt, baking powder and sugar; set aside. Preheat waffle iron to desired temperature.

2.In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Stir in the milk, butter and vanilla. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture; beat until blended.

3.Ladle the batter into a preheated waffle iron. Cook the waffles until golden and crisp

I got this from allrecipes.com

Tasty Tuesday

LAST DAY FOR LOW ENTRY GIVEAWAY

2011-09-02T03:11:00.000-07:00

WISHAROO PARK AND CAPEZIO DANCE PRIZE PACK

I extended this giveaway for a day because I was not on the computer yesterday to promote it's last day and it's low entry. You have such a good chance of winning! Little ballet shoes and tap shoes..c'mon! Sooo cute.

LAST DAY TO ENTER LOW ENTRY GIVEAWAY!

2011-08-30T04:45:00.000-07:00

CERTAIN DRI

The Grace Card DVD Giveaway!

2011-08-24T04:11:00.000-07:00

I'm a little late getting this review out. This DVD was realeased Aug. 16. But you know how it is when you have kids and want to watch a movie. Every evening is chaos and I'm so use to thinking, "once the kids go to bed I will watch that movie". Then I remembered this is a Christian DVD. Wait a minute, it's ok to have on while the kids are home and awake lol. How great is that??

I saw this DVD for sale at Christian Family Bookstore. You can also order this online at www.thegracecardmovie.com.

What intrigued me about this movie is the theme of grace and forgiveness. Which is something I am struggling with right now. I seem to be able to say all the right things about forgiveness, but can't quite to seem to get there emotionally.

Here is the synopsis from the website:

Everything can change in an instant ... and take a lifetime to unravel.

When Mac McDonald loses his son in an accident, the ensuing 17 years of bitterness and pain erodes his love for his family and leaves him angry with God ... and just about everyone else.

Mac's rage stonewalls his career in the police department and makes for a combustible situation when he's partnered with Sam Wright, a rising star on the force who happens to be a part-time pastor and a loving family man.

Mac's home life is as frightening as anything he encounters on the streets of Memphis. Money is tight and emotions run high as he constantly argues with his wife and his surviving son Blake, who is hanging with the wrong crowd and in danger of flunking out of school.

Sam Wright also never expected to be a police officer. He has a calling—to be a minister like his Grandpa George. But leading a small, start-up church doesn't always put enough food on the table for a young family, so Sam doubles as a police officer. With his new promotion to Sergeant, Sam starts questioning if his real calling might actually be police work rather than the pastorate.

Can Mac and Sam somehow join forces to help one another when it's impossible for either of them to look past their differences—especially the most obvious one?

Every day, we have the opportunity to rebuild relationships and heal deep wounds by extending and receiving God's grace. Offer THE GRACE CARD ... and never underestimate the power of God's love.

Would you like to win a copy of this DVD?

Mandatory Entry:

Be a blog follower and leave your email address in the first mandatory entry. That is all folks!

Extra Entries:

1. Follow The Grace Card on twitter (3 entries)

2. Share this giveaway on twitter (3 entries)

3. Follow me on twitter

4. Like The Grace Card on facebook (3 entries)

5. Like me on facebook (5 entries)

6. Share on facebook

7. Add my button on your blog

8. Add my blog to your blog roll

9. Blog about this giveaway

Contest ends in Sept. 9. Winner will be notified by email and have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received this DVD for free to review but was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliater GIVEAWAY

2011-08-23T03:42:00.000-07:00

I love using scrubs and skin exfoliaters on my skin. It's just something that makes a huge difference in the softness and hydration of your skin.

What I love about Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliaters is that they are made with organic virgin coconut oil and virgin palm oil. Virgin palm oil contains powerful form of Vitamin E, and we all know how wonderful Vitamin E is to skin and keeping a youthful appearance.

The other reason why I love these skin exfoliaters is the scents they come in; lavender, citrus-mint and then unscented. I LOVE the smell of essential oils and I clean with them alot. So it's a huge plus that tropical traditions skin care products come in those wonderful scents that I love. (Research essential oils and read how wonderful they are to not only clean with but to soothe many ailments).

How would you like to try this amazing product for free?

Enter below to win your very own jar of Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliater in your choice of scent or unscented.

Mandatory Entry

Sign up for Tropical Traditions Newsletter. Be a blog follower and make sure to leave your email address in your mandatory entry ....you don't have to have your email address in any other entries if that makes it easier on ya ;)

Extra Entries

1. Like Tropical Traditions on facebook (3 entries)

2. Follow Tropical Traditions on twitter

3. Like me on facebook (3 entries)

4. Follow me on twitter

5. Leave a comment telling me if you have tried any of Tropical Traditions products.

6. Add my button to your blog (3 entries)

7. Add my blog to your blog roll.

8. Share this on twitter

9. Share this on facebook

10. Blog about this giveaway (3 entries)

Contest ends Sept. 15. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received the skin exfoliater for free to review. I was not required to write a positive review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

2011-08-20T16:28:00.000-07:00

Black Bean and Corn Salad

2 Cups black beans (rinsed)

1/3 C squeezed lime juice

1 garlic clove, minced

1 tsp fine sea salt

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

2 cans of corn

1 avocado, peeled, stone removed and cut into pieces

1 small red bell pepper, chopped

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

6 green onions, chopped

1 hot chile pepper or jalapeno pepper, chopped

1/2 c. chopped fresh cilantro

Rinse the 2 cans of black beans and pour into bowl. Combine the corn, avocado, bell pepper, tomatoes, green onions, chile pepper and cilantro. Mix well.

Put the lime juice in a bowl with olive oil, garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper and mix well. Pour into veggie bowl and mix well.

Refrigerate for a few hours and add avocado when ready to serve.

This is awesome with nacho chips.

Tuesdays at the Table
Tempt My Tummy
Delectable Tuesday
What's Cooking Wednesday
What's Cooking Thursday
Full Plate Thursday
Made From Scratch

I Heart Spinach...No, Really I Do!

2011-08-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

Spinach is so versatile

I buy a bag of spinach each week at the grocery store and there are so many things you can do with it.

The above picture is Wilted Spinach. Heat some olive oil and garlic in a pan, add spinach. Toss and turn until spinach is warm and wilted. Add sliced almonds.

I also use baby spinach leaves instead of lettuce in my salads.

I juice spinach with a fruit or two (you don't even taste the spinach at all). One of my faves is juicing spinach with strawberries.

I make omelettes with spinach in the middle.

Use baby spinach leaves instead of lettuce in your tacos or on sandwiches.

WISHAROO PARK: Duckle Dance Contest and GIVEAWAY

2011-08-17T07:21:00.000-07:00

Wisharoo Park is offering another awesome giveaway!!!

This prize pack values over $100

• One Pair Capezio Daisy ballet Shoes. Retail Value: $18.00

• One Pair Capezio Jr. Tyette Tap Shoes. Retail Value: $25.00

• One Capezio Logo Drawstring Backpack. Retail Value: $8.50

• One Limited Edition Do the Duckle Commemorative T-Shirt. Retail Value: $12.99

• One Wisharoo Park 2-Disc 13 Episode DVD Set. Retail Value: $19.99

• Six Wisharoo Park Wish Star finger puppets. Retail Vaile: 19.98

Wisharoo Park is giving away this gift pack as part of a promotion for a contest called "Duckle Dance Sweepstakes Presented by Capezio and Wisharoo Park"

You can enter this giveaway by simply videotaping your preschool kids doing the Duckle Dance and then enter those videos via downloads to your facebook or YouTube accounts for a chance to win one of twenty Capezio and Wisharoo Prize packages or one of five $500 Dance Scholarships!

Do the Duckle Video

Watch the video with your children and videotape them doing the duckle. There is no wrong way to do it!

I would have loved to tape my little baby duck doing the dance, but she is behind developmentally but I still my share a video of her dancing in her super cool "Do the Duckle" shirt ;)

HOW TO ENTER FOR THE PRIZE PACK

Help spread the word of the Duckle Dance Sweepstakes Presented by Capezio and Wisharoo Park giveaway

Mandatory Entry

1. Be a blog follower, leave your email address in your first entry and like Wisharoo Park on facebook

Extra Entries

1. Send a tweet out to your twitter followers encouraging them to enter the sweepstakes, include the www.wisharoopark.com/duckledance link, and ask all your followers to do the same.

2. Blog about this giveaway (4 entries)

3. Enter a video of your child Doing the Duckle on your youtube account or facebook (10 entries)

4. Like me on twitter (3 entries)

5. Like me on facebook

6. Add my button to your blog

7. Add my blog to your blog roll

8. Share about this giveaway on facebook

Contest ends Sept. 2, 2011. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received this prize pack for review, but was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Certain Dri Giveaway ~CLOSED

2011-08-09T07:16:00.000-07:00

It has been one hot summer!

I have been reapplying deodorant this summer. Being out in the heat, shopping garage sales, going to the gym, even cleaning in my air conditioned home has me sweating.

That is until I was send Certain Dri to review. I don't want to even bother with other deordorants now. It is just likes it's name.... DRY. For once my underarms feel dry all day long. No reapplying!

Certain Dri Anti Perspirant has been the leading, dermatologist-recommended product for controlling excessive underarm perspiration for more than three decades. While other products claim to be "clinical strength", the Certain Dri formulations are 12% aluminum chloride and 25% aluminum (try to pronounce this word) sesquichlorohdrate in the new solid..are the strongest available over the counter formulas at stores nationwide for the control of excessive underarm sweating, providing up to 72 hours of protection with each application.

Win your very own Certain Dri solid deodorant!

Mandatory entry: Leave your email address in a comment.

Extra Entries:

1. Be a blog follower (3 entries)

2. Tell me if you have used Certain Dri products before.

3. Like Certain Dri on facebook (3 entries)

4. Like me on facebook (3 entries)

5. Follow me on twitter (3 entries)

6. Add my button to your blog

7. Add my blog to your blog roll

8. Share this giveaway on facebook

9. Share this giveaway on twitter

10. Blog about this giveaway (3 entries)

11. Enter my other giveaways (1 entry per giveaway entered)

Contest ends Aug. 30. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received this product to review for free but was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

LAST DAY TO ENTER LOW ENTRY GIVEAWAY W/6 WINNERS!!!

2011-08-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

WISHAROO PARK GIVEAWAY HAS 6 WINNERS AND VERY LOW ENTRY. CHANCES OF WINNING ARE AWESOME!

Recipes from blogland ~ Glazed Donut Muffins

2011-08-01T07:33:00.000-07:00

Y~U~M~M~Y

GLAZED DONUT MUFFINS from Between the Lines

Exuviance Matte Perfection Review

2011-07-28T08:09:00.000-07:00

I had the amazing opportunity to review Exuviance Matte Perfection primer. I am a big believer in primer! It makes a huge difference in how my makeup goes on and stays on. What I like about Exuviance Matte Perfection primer is it not only works as a primer but improves your skin at the same time.

Gently smooth over face. Can be worn alone, or over or under other cosmetics. Daily use of a sunscreen or sun avoidance is recommended with use of this AHA product and for one week after to minimize the risk of sun sensitivity/sunburn.

Exuviance Matte Perfection is clinically proven to improve overall skin texture, tone and pore size. After four weeks: 100% of users experienced softer skin97% of users enjoyed the lightweight texture

Take control of shiny, oily, skin and create an instant matte finish with Exuviance Matte Perfection. This super light, oil-free gel quickly absorbs excess oil and minimizes the appearance of pores, transforming oily skin into a smooth matte complexion. Mandelic Acid, a naturally occurring Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) found in almonds, helps provide long-lasting control over oiliness and shine while smoothing the skin. Gluconolactone, a Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) helps improve uneven pigmentation, enlarged pores and roughness, while adding anti-oxidant properties and anti-aging benefits to help decrease fine lines and wrinkles. Exuviance Matte Perfection glides easily over or under moisturizer, can be worn under makeup as a primer, or over makeup to impart a fresh, shine-free finish anytime of the day. Non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic. Dermatologist and allergy tested.

ORDER HERE

I love the way my skin looks when I wear this primer. It's been the best primer I have used hands down!

I received the primer for free to review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Garage Sale Finds

2011-07-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

Longaberger Basket $5
Turtle Lamp (it's so freakin cute) $1

Tupperware .50 cents a piece
Measuring spoons .25 cents
PEACE sign .25 cents

Nifty Thrifty
Show and Tell

Robert Pierre CD GIVEAWAY ~ CLOSED

2011-07-26T07:59:00.000-07:00

ROBERT PIERRE'S NEW ALBUM COMES OUT TODAY!

For Robert, I’m All In is more than the name of his third studio album, due July 26 from thinkaboutit records. It has become Robert’s life motto as he responds to God’s calling to live fully committed to Him. In addition to writing and recording I’m All In and playing on a summer tour, Robert also leads regular Sunday morning worship at his 800-member Orlando, FL church. And he’s done it all as a high school senior.

“All of the songs have something to do with things I was going through my senior year,” Robert said of I’m All In, “preparing to say goodbye to friends and not really knowing what would come next, but finding comfort and peace in the Lord’s plan for my life. The Bible talks about how the eyes of the Lord are searching to and fro throughout the earth, searching for someone whose heart is wholly His, someone He can strongly support. This CD is me saying, ‘I’m all in.’”

Creating I’m All In was a powerfully personal experience for Robert, who teamed with veteran songwriter Jason Ingram (Tenth Avenue North, Sanctus Real, Bebo Norman) and legendary producer Matt Bronleewe (Jars of Clay, Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman) on the album. The result is a collection of songs that enthusiastically and energetically worship God while wrestling with what it means to be a Christian in a world full of difficulty and joy, anxiety and excitement.

I have the CD in my computer now as I'm writing up some blog posts. It's really enjoyable CD and I can see young adults really liking this CD as well. It's amazing how wonderful praise music can really lift your spirits. I really enjoy listening to the Robert Pierre, and I know you will too ;)

WIN YOUR VERY OWN COPY OF ROBERT PIERRE'S NEW CD "I'M ALL IN"

MANDATORY ENTRY

1. Leave your email adddress in your comment and be a blog follower. LIKE Robert Pierre on facebook

EXTRA ENTRIES

2. LIKE me on facebook (3 ENTRIES)

3. Follow me on twitter

4. Follow Robert Pierre on twitter

5. Share on facebook

6. Share on twitter

7. Tell me your fave Christian artist/band

8. Add my button to your blog

9. Add my blog to your blog roll

10. Blog about this giveaway (4 entries)

Contest ends 8/19/11. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services

mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I

only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255:

“Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Boyfriend's Fridge

2011-07-25T18:09:00.000-07:00

My handsome boyfriend's super healthy fridge. He cooks better than me :) Maybe I can get him to post here sometime

Look What I Got

2011-07-19T07:34:00.000-07:00

CVS

Pantene Shampoo
Pantene Conditioner
$7 (technically $6.97)
-3 off coupon from Sunday paper
_______________________
$4 and receive $2 in ECBs

3 Edy's Ice Creams
$7
-1 off coupon from Sunday paper
________________________
$6 receive $3 in ECBs

Oral B Toothbrush
$2
-2 off coupon from Sunday paper
_________________________
FREE $1 in ECBs

John Freida Leave in Conditioner
$6
- 5 off coupon from Sunday paper
_____________________________
$1

Paid a little less than $12 and received $6 in ECBs and a $4 off a $20 purchase coupon. Still have $3 in ECBs from last week.

Garage Sale Finds

2011-07-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

$3 for all 3 pieces.

Milk Glass $2.50 (asking $5 for it), love that it has a lid

Look What I Got

2011-07-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

My CVS Trip

Transaction 1

2 boxes of Raisin Bran cereal = $5
minus a coupon for $1 off 2 boxes = $4
minus $4 in Extra Care Bucks from previous purchase = ZERO

Received $1 in ECB
Received $4 off purchase of $20 coupon on receipt

Transaction 2

Pampers $19.99
minus $1.50 off Pampers coupon
3 (12) packs of Coke Zero + Receive 1 (12) pack free $10
minus the above $4 off $20 purchase coupon
minus the above $1 ECB
= $25.11

Received $5 in Extra Care Bucks

Transaction 3

Soleil Shimmer Razor $6.99
minus $3 off coupon in Sunday's paper
1 Seattle's Best Coffee drink $1.25
minus the above $5 Extra Care Bucks
=.68 cents

Received $3 in ECB

*Kellogg's Cereal buy two receive $1 ECB
Buy Pamper's receive $5 ECB
Buy Soleil Shimmer razor receive $3 ECB

Hope this helps newbies like me :)

Garage Sale Finds

2011-07-09T08:06:00.000-07:00

Pink Sweater .75cents
Blue shirt .75 cents
DKNY jacket $1
Green Sweater $1
Black and white dress $1

Coupon tin .25 cents
Starfish candle .25 cents
2 Longaberger votives $5

Necklace $2

Recipes From Blog Land~Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins with PB Glaze

2011-07-06T07:21:00.000-07:00

Banana Chocolate Chips Muffins with Peanut Butter Glaze from I Wash...You Dry

very yummy muffins and the glaze dresses up the muffins!

Garage Sale Finds

2011-07-04T10:36:00.000-07:00

Coffee press $1
Blue Skirt .25 cents
6 pack votive candles .50 cents
Car air refreshers .50 cents
Target dress new with tags ($14.98) $2

Recipes From Blog Land ~ Bacon Popcorn

2011-07-03T07:17:00.000-07:00

Bacon Popcorn from the gluten free homemaker

I love making popcorn on the stovetop and this was a nice treat

WISHAROO PARK GIVEAWAY (6 WINNERS!)

2011-06-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

Fat Cakes is what we call the baby, even though she is not chubby. I guess it's kinda like naming a white cat "midnight" or a black cat "snow". Well Fat Cakes has never really gotten into t.v. viewing. Oh sure she likes the occassional "Real Housewives" show but who doesn't really? Oh those crazy housewives.

She is just at the perfect age to have received this Wisharoo prize pack for review. She is just over 2 years old. The show features such adorable characters and actually held her interest.

I also love the website, wisharoopark.com. The website offers videos, games, activities and much more.

From the press release:

Wisharoo Park is dedicated to promoting positive self-image and self-esteem in preschool age children. It was originally introduced by airing as a children’s TV series on PBS stations across the country and is now rolling out as a dynamic multimedia program which includes the interactive website WisharooPark.com, DVDs and more! .

Unique among preschool programs, Wisharoo Park is designed to help children age 3 – 6 recognize and appreciate their individuality. With its groundbreaking technology-based curriculum, Wisharoo Park helps children discover and understand their personal strengths and put them on the road to developing greater self-esteem. The Wisharoopark.com enchanting online community stars a whimsical cast of loveable animated, puppet and human characters who are featured in games, videos, music and more! Each week exciting new activities and content are added that are sure to keep parents and their kids coming back again and again.

Wisharoo Park is generously offering 6 prize packs!!

3 Grand Prize WINNERS will receive

6 Star Finger Puppets and DVD ($40 value)

3 Runner Up Prize Packs

6 Star Finger Puppets

That's 6 WINNERS for this giveaway!!!

Mandatory Entry

1. Be a blog follower, leave your email address i your mandatory entry and sign up for the Wisharoo Park Newsletter

Extra Entries

2. Like Wisharoo Park on facebook (3 entries)

3. Like Retro Housewife: The Remix on facebook (3 entries)

4. Follow Wisharoo Park on twitter (3 entries)

5. Follow Retro Housewife: The Remix on twitter (3 entries)

6. Share on facebook (2 entries)

7. Share on twitter (2 entries)

8. Add my button to your blog

9. Add my blog to your blog roll

10. Enter any of my other giveaways

11. Go to Park Pals and tell me which character your child would like best

Giveaway ends Aug. 2, 2011. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received the DVD and Finger Puppets for review but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

LAST DAY TO ENTER LOW ENTRY GIVEAWAY

2011-06-30T06:31:00.000-07:00

30 MEALS IN ONE DAY COOKBOOK SYSTEM

Look What I Got

2011-06-29T08:33:00.000-07:00

All free after coupons, sales and promotions

3 bottles of Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ Sauce     sale $1 (had 3, $1 off coupons)
Country Time Lemonade     sale $1 (had $1 off ecoupon)
3 jars of Chi-Chi's Salsa    sale .99 (3 coupons for .50 cents off that doubled)
Milk was free if you bought 4 boxes of Kellogg's Cereal (all which I had a coupon for)
Pure Protein bar   sale .99 cents (coupon for .50 cents off that doubled)
1 box of Mac and Cheese (if you bought 5 boxes 1 box was free)
Ronzoni Noodles sale $1 ($1 off coupon)

MUFFINS ~ MUFFINS ~ MUFFINS

2011-06-27T07:08:00.000-07:00

Okay ignore the Coke Zero in the background lol

I have one child that besides turkey bacon, will eat anything chocolate chip for breakfast. Chocolate chip granola bars, chocolate chip pancakes, chocolate chip muffins....

So I found a recipe to make a bulk mix of muffin mix to make her chocolate chip muffins. I thought it would be wonderful to have on hand. I already used the whole mix though because the kids and I came up with so many fun ideas.

Muffin Mix

8 cups of flour
3 cups of sugar
3 tbsp baking powder
2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp ground nutmeg

I put the above ingredients in a large ziplock bag.

Then when you want to make muffins put 2 3/4 cups of mix in a bowl with:

1 cup milk (2%)
1 egg
1 stick butter, melted

Then choose whatever ingredients you want:

Chocolate chips
Blueberries
Cranberries
Banana
whatever else you can come up with.

Bake at 400 degrees for around 15 mins.

We made one batch of each of these

Chocolate chip (added 1 cup of chocolate chips)

Buttermilk Maple (substituted 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of buttermilk and added maple extract and sprinkled with brown sugar)

Chocolate chocolate chip and peanut butter (added 1/3 cup of cocoa, chocolate chips and 1/3 cup pb)

Mint chocolate chip (added green food coloring, chocolate chips and dash of peppermint extract)

MADE FROM SCRATCH TUESDAY
UNWASTED HOMEMAKING
TEMPT MY TUMMY
DELECTABLE TUESDAY
TUESDAYS AT THE TABLE
WHATS COOKING WEDNESDAY
RECIPE SWAP THURSDAY

Tropical Traditions Moisturizing Lotion Giveaway ~CLOSED

2011-06-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

If you read my blog you know it's no secret I love Tropical Traditions products. As a blogger I have the wonderful opportunity to review products from many different companies. Tropical Traditions is one company that I will continue to use, even if I don't blog anymore.

As far as skin care goes I love the tropical traditions moisturizing cream for my face. I am a big believer in the key to young looking skin is SUNSCREEN and retinol!

Well Tropical Traditions creams and moisturizers are made with Virgin Palm Oil. It is 15 times more retinol-equivalent than carrots and 300 times more than tomatoes!

Another thing I love is essential oils. Tropical Traditions Moisturizing Lotion comes in these scents; babysilk, lavender, citrus, peppermint, arnica and unscented. I chose peppermint to review. I thought the scent would be invigorating.

I love the way the moisturizing lotion feels and smells :)

How would you like to win your very own bottle of your choice of moisturizing lotion?

Mandatory Entry: Be a blog follower and leave your email address. Sign up for the Tropical Traditions Newsletter so that you don't miss out on the amazing deals!

Extra Entries:

1. Follow Tropical Traditions on twitter (3 entries)

2. Like Tropical Traditions on facebook (3 entries)

3. Tell me a recipe you would like to try on their recipe site.

4. Like me on facebook (7 entries)

5. Follow me on twitter (3 entries)

6. Blog about this giveaway (3 entries)

7. Add my blog to your blog roll

8. Add my button to your blog (3 entries)

9. Share on facebook

10. Share on twitter

11. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)

12. Tell me which scent you would choose?

Contest ends July 19, 2011. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received this product to review for free. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own

Garage Sale Finds

2011-06-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

Hand held mixer $1

I thought this would be neat for the kids to use to help me mix things

Clothes for my preteen
Jeans $1
Shoes .25 cents
Sweatshirt $2
Shirt $1
Shirt $1
Shorts $1

Shoes .25 cents
Striped top new with tags ($17.50) $2
Black Sweater $2

So we mostly found clothes this last weekend. That's what is nice about going to garage sales, you never know what you will find.

Father's Day Meal Ideas

2011-06-17T06:37:00.000-07:00

Entrees

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Sweet, Sticky and Spicy Chicken

Chicken Alfredo Pizza

Side Items

Buttermilk and Bacon Mashed Potatoes

Cheesy Mexican Rice

Desserts

Chewy Chocolate Cookies

Oatmeal Whoopie Pies

Nacho Cheese Sauce

2011-06-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

I was craving nacho cheese and tortilla chips. I didn't have any so I looked around the kitchen to make something similiar that would ease my craving.

1 can of cheddar cheese soup
1/2 brick of cream cheese
a little cayenne pepper
a little taco seasoning

melt this on a stovetop til heated and smooth then add 1/3 cup of salsa

This tasted way better than the store bought nacho cheese. I ended up eating it with Ritz Crackers because that's all I had :( And no I am not pregnant :)

okaaay, off to the gym, ENJOY

whats cooking

Hershey's Chocolate Cake

2011-06-13T06:21:00.000-07:00

Hershey's Chocolate Cake

2 c sugar
1 3/4 flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 eggs
1 c milk
1/2 vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 c boiling water

Heat oven to 350. Grease and flour 2 9 in round cake pans. Combine dry ingredients in large bowl. Add eggs, milk, oil and vanilla; beat on med. speed 2 mins. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin). Pour into pans. Bake 350 for 30 mins.

tasty tuesday
fat camp friday

Recipes From Blog Land

2011-06-12T07:54:00.000-07:00

I want to start posting recipes that I tried from other bloggers and loved. My kids really loved this if you couldn't tell lol.

Brown Butter Toffee Blondies

We omitted the nuts. Because none of us are nuts for nuts in our desserts, maybe we are nuts?

30 Meals in One Day Review + Giveaway

2011-06-10T06:12:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to do freezer cooking but it can be so intimidating! I have so many kids, and they need me, and they run in and out of kitchen. I couldn't imagine spending a day making a bunch of freezer meals.

30 Meals In One Day is a great system to get your freezer packed full of healthy meals that your family will actually eat.

It's not intimidating at all. I didn't make 30 meals today but I did make 3 meals, and honestly could have easily kept going. The recipes are so easy to assemble and do not take alot of ingredients or prep time. I made 3 recipes and it was so easy I don't even feel like I spent a bunch of time in the kitchen.

Today I made

Chicken Cacciatore
California Dip Meatloaf
Cola Chicken

The cookbook is easy to read and thoroughly explains freezer cooking and gives specific directions for each recipe. You do not need to be some master freezer chef who already knows how to do everything to prepare these meals. All the leg work is done for you, you just have to follow easy to read directions

The website offers cookbooks, recipe software and labels

If you would like to try some of the recipes CLICK HERE

I received the Dinner Is Ready Cookbook, but you can also purchase Lunch Is Ready and On The Side. I hope they add more cookbooks. I'm interested in purchasing all of them.

THE GIVEAWAY

You can win a Dinner Is Ready book and software combo. The full retail price is $40, and is sold online for $32 at website. If you were to purchase the set before the giveaway is over, and just so happen to win, your order will be refunded (or you can choose another set). If you go to the website and order the full set (all 3 cookbooks and 3-in-1 Software) before the winner is announced, you will be refunded $60!

Also check out the Dinner is Ready blog

MANDATORY ENTRY

Like Dinner is Ready on facebook

EXTRA ENTRIES

2. Like me on facebook (5 entries)

3. Follow me on twitter

4. Share on facebook (3 entries)

5. Share on twitter (3 entries)

6. Add my button to your blog (5 entries)

7. Add my blog to your blog roll

8. Tell me which cookbook you would like the best

9. Leave a comment on the Dinner is Ready blog

Contest ends June 30, 2011. Winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received Dinner is Ready cookbook for free to review. I was not required to write positive review. All opinions are my own.

Creamy Chicken and Noodles

Hazelnut Mocha Frappe's (like McD's)

2011-06-07T06:03:00.000-07:00

When McDonalds ran a sale offering their small frappes for a dollar I treated my kids to them.

Then the sale went off and my kids still wanted them.

So I scoured the net and got some ideas and here is what I came up with. I don't measure because I'm a throw things in the blender kinda gal.

milk
ice cubes
vanilla ice cream
instant coffee granules
nutella
a little chocolate syrup

whip on high in your blender

chocolate syrup and whipped cream as garnish.

Voila, taste just like frappe's you buy at restaurants for $3-4. Add more instant coffee for stronger coffee taste or less coffee for a lighter more milkshake taste.

delectable tuesday
tuesdays at the table
tempt my tummy
this chick cooks
prairie story
full plate thursday

Garage Sale Finds

2011-06-06T05:05:00.000-07:00

2 cookbooks $1 each

a pair of earrings .50 cents (I bought the matching necklace for $1.50 but baby broke it lol)

Tropical Traditions Winner Is

2011-06-03T13:36:00.001-07:00

4Given

congrats :)

LAST DAY FOR LOW ENTRY GIVEAWAY

2011-05-31T05:32:00.000-07:00

TROPICAL TRADITIONS ANTIOXIDANT GREENS

Eden Fantasys Offers More

2011-05-28T06:29:00.000-07:00

I am always looking at products and thought I would check out the other things that edenfantasys has to offer.

At the Eden Community you can check out

Reviews (great reviews that really tell you about the product!)
Edem Tube (video reviews)
Forums and Polls
Interviews
Community Corner
Eden Link
Sexis Magazine
Naked Reader Book Club
Eden Cafe Blog

You can read alot of informative reviews and book club reviews at the site. Plus it's always neat to check out the new toy section!

Creamy Chicken and Noodles (30 Meals In One Day) FREEZER MEAL

2011-05-27T03:41:00.000-07:00

In June I will be having a giveaway for this system!!! This is the best freezer cooking book I have ever had.

3 cups uncooked wide egg noodles
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can evaporated milk
1/3 cup shredded fresh parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cups cooked, chopped chicken
1 can french fried onions

Cook noodles in boiling, salted water for 2 minutes less than the shortest time recommended on package. Drain. Combine soup, milk and cheeses. Stir in chicken and pasta. (Do not add onions until baking). Place in freezer bag. Label and freeze.

To serve: Thaw. Place in greased baking dish. Stir in half the can of French fried onions. Bake covered for 45 minutes at 350. Uncover and top with remaning French fried onions. Bake an additional 10 minutes.

fun with food

TheraBreath Winner

2011-05-26T16:52:00.001-07:00

Winner is....

Terry!

LAST DAY FOR LOW ENTRY GIVEAWAY

2011-05-25T05:31:00.000-07:00

http://retrohousewiferemix.blogspot.com/2011/04/multi-symptom-probiotic-review-and.html

Therabreath mouth wetting lozenges!

Garage Sale Finds

2011-05-24T03:43:00.000-07:00

I got this for $5. Don't know what it is but I like it :)

Best deal of the weekend. I paid a dime for this!!

Winner of the Rebecca St. James CD

2011-05-20T04:12:00.001-07:00

Oh it's so early I almost typed Rebecca Black lol

Shonda is the winner!

Just an FYI

2011-05-15T06:09:00.001-07:00

I did receive the check for my mystery shopping so the company has been legit. Just wanted you all to know!

Couponing

2011-05-15T06:08:00.000-07:00

I use to do pretty well cutting out coupons, going to the grocery store and then buying things that were on sale that I had a coupon for.

These days that just is not cutting it. I don't know if it's because I have many hungry mouths I have to feed, food prices have gone up or maybe my store isn't putting items for sale that may have a matching coupon.

I go to couponing websites and all of the abbreviations make it look as though they are speaking japanese. Sometimes the couponing scenarios take 2 coupons for one item to get the deals you see on Extreme Couponing. Well too many times I have tried that and have had a cashier treat me like I am trying to rob the store, so I just don't do it.

Are there any easy to use Couponing sites that don't speak a different language and are very good about using coupons in a legal way?

That is the question :)

Mystery Shopping

2011-05-09T03:24:00.000-07:00

I haven't received my reimbursement check yet since I just started this month, but I wanted to pass on this company for mystery shopping

Client Expectations

I had to write a very complete report on a dining experience at a local restaurant. I had to visit the restaurant twice, and report on everything about the restaurant..including the drive thru.

I am suppose to get reimbursed up to $14 on the inside visit, $7 in the drive thru and paid $5 to complete the report. So basically you are doing it for a free meal ;)

Sexy Costumes Discounters Review

2011-05-06T16:41:00.000-07:00

Sexycostumediscounters.com is THE place to purchase your sexy Halloween costumes.

But costumes are not just for Halloween.

Really any get together or party can be even more fun with costumes. Most costumes stores are only open during Halloween season so it can be tough to find costumes for other times of the year.

Sexycostumediscounters.com not only has a year round selection of costumes for any occassion but the prices are way better than those Halloween stores and are made with better quality!

I love the sexy sports costumes

I received the Sexy Female Football Costume

For some reason I couldn't get the picture to show up on the site but it is adorable. I felt like I could wear just the top with a pair of jeans to a superbowl party. I also felt it would make great pajamas. Yes costume as pajamas, why not? Why wouldn't ya? You can look cute and sexy anytime!

Kim and Scott's Gourmet Pretzels

2011-05-05T04:01:00.000-07:00

How lucky am I?

I got to review Kim and Scott's Gourmet Pretzels.

If you are feeling jealousy right now, well go out and get you some! Seriously, you will not be disappointed. You can also order them on QVC

I got sent

1. Grilled Cheese
2. Chocolate Crumb
3. Jalapeno and Cheese (I heart Jalapenos)
4. Pizza
5. Apple and Cinnamon

My kids loved these. It was such a great snack for bedtime or after school.

These are not like a cheaper frozen pretzel brand, these have a more gourmet taste for sure!

These pretzels are:

All natural
Source of whole grains
Premium ingredients
Twisted by hand and made from scratch
Microwaveable
Made in nut free facility
No trans fats
No hydrogenated oils
No preservatives

www.kimandscotts.com

Twitter

facebook

blog

store locater

Tropical Traditions Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens Giveaway

2011-05-04T04:23:00.000-07:00

The Benefits of Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens

Great for Active Lifestyles*

Rich in ALA Omega 3 fatty acid

Detoxification*

Improves Immune Function*

Provides Fiber for Better Digestion*

Provides High Antioxidant Benefits*

Alkalizes Body & Balances pH*

Supplements Weight-Loss Plans*

No Stimulants or Caffeine

Great Source of Probiotics*

Tropical Traditons Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens Contains; Certified Organic Flax Seed Blend, Concentrate Ionic Trace Minerals, Spirulina, Chlorella, Apple Fiber Pectin, Lecithin, Licorice Root Extract, and other enzymes.

Experts recommend 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. That is very hard to do. I do try to juice sometimes, but I don't always have fruit and veggies on hand. Not to mention the high price of organic fruits and vegetables.

I was kinda scared to try this. I'm pretty brave when it comes to food and drinks. I mean I do juice kale and drink it lol. But I had had wheatgrass in the past that I just had to give away to someone because it made me sick to my stomach. So I was all nervous and I put a straw in the drink to drink it faster and scrunched up my face and closed my eyes and... it tasted good. Seriously

Whew, I was soooo glad. I got the berry flavor. Really it taste good. I have no problems drinking this. I actually dare I say, like the flavor.

Would you like to win your very own Tropical Traditions Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens?

Mandatory Entry: Be a blog follower and leave your email address. Sign up for the Tropical Traditions Newsletter so that you don't miss out on the amazing deals!

Extra Entries:

1. Follow Tropical Traditions on twitter (3 entries)

2. Like Tropical Traditions of facebook (3 entries)

3. Tell me a recipe you would like to try on their recipe site.

4. Like me on facebook (7 entries)

5. Follow me on twitter (3 entries)

6. Blog about this giveaway (3 entries)

7. Add my blog to your blog roll

8. Add my button to your blog (3 entries)

9. Share on facebook

10. Share on twitter

11. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)

Contest ends May 31, 2011. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received this product to review for free. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Spaghetti Casserole

2011-05-03T05:44:00.000-07:00

From time to time I post recipes where there really aren't measurements, or exact ingredients for that matter. To some people this is fine, to others it may bug you. But just keep in mind with cooking you can be flexible, add your own taste and don't worry. Create your own creation!

Spaghetti Casserole

I cooked spaghetti noodles according to package directions

I added some ground beef to my spaghetti sauce (actually I added soy crumbles)

I then grabbed a casserole dish and sprayed nonstick cooking spray

I drained the noodles and added a little olive oil and garlic salt.

I then layered noodles, sauce, mozzarella cheese in the casserole dish. Rinse and Repeat :)

Then topped with more cheese, sprinkled bread crumbs, italian seasonings and parmasan cheese on top.

Bake until casserole is heated and cheese is nice and melty. Not sure melty is a word, hmmm.

EnJoY

LAST DAY TO ENTER 2 EXTREMELY LOW ENTRY GIVEAWAY!

2011-04-29T04:14:00.000-07:00

I was in the hospital and not able to properly promote the last day of these giveaways so they will both end tonight at midnight!

ONLY 30 ENTRIES!

COUNTRY BOB'S ALL PURPOSE SAUCE

REBECCA ST JAMES CD

Funny Facebook Statuses

2011-04-29T03:40:00.000-07:00

1. Hallmark is totally missing out on the You're Welcome card market.

2. Insomnia causes questionable browser history.

3. It seems that some people on Facebook "like" everything but grammar.

4. Sometimes I wish real world conversations had a 140 character limit...

5. Why is it always the same person getting in your way from start to checkout at the grocery store?

6. Have you ever even watched MTV Cribs? I'm pretty sure we can keep downloading music without paying for it.

7. Holy crap, I just found out time travel is possible. You can go to 2004 by just following this link: www.myspace.com

I want to break up with you Monster Java

2011-04-28T03:42:00.000-07:00

You are costing me $2 a day.

I don't want to quit you. My house has never been cleaner and I have actually been going to the gym. Oh how I love the energy you give me...but you are costing me money and my dignity when I walk into the local gas station and buy 10 cans. I think the gas station workers are planning an intervention. Not to mention each can is 200 calories!

Multi Symptom Probiotic Review and Giveaway (Mouth Wetting Lozenges)

2011-04-27T03:58:00.000-07:00

TheraBreath

I received this in the mail to review and oddly enough that day there was a bump in my throat area and my throat was feeling kind of weird. By the next day the bump was gone and my throat felt fine. I thought what a great time to receive this!

This probiotic attacks the bacteria in our mouths that cause all sets of problems; cavities, bad breath, gum problems, sore throats, ear aches and many more. This is the result of over 20 years of research!

This product is great for children. Do you have a child who gets ear aches or sore throats alot?

TheraBreath has BLIS K-12 and BLIS M-18 probiotics -- the only oral care probiotics clinically proven to attack common oral cavity germs

From the website:

Unlike repurposed gut probiotics, our patented 'bugs' were developed specifically for colonizing the tongue, mouth, and throat.

The product is easy to use. Mix with water, swish in your mouth and gargle. It is recommended you use it twice a day for a 7 day period every 6-8 weeks.

I love Therabreath products and I am so glad that they are constantly coming up with new inventions for oral health. I love the confidence that these products bring!

Would you like to win TheraBreath's Mouth Wetting Lozenges? (You will love these!)

Mandatory Entry

Like TheraBreath on facebook

Extra Entries

1. Like me on facebook 5 entries (you know you want to)

2. Follow TheraBreath on twitter 3 entries

3. Follow me on twitter 3 entries

4. Go to TheraBreath website and tell me another product you would like to try.

5. Have you tried TheraBreath products before?

6. Share on facebook

7. Share on twitter

8. Add my button to your blog

9. Add my blog to your blog roll

10. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)

Contest ends May 25th, 2011. US Residents only. Winner will be notified by email and have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

I received this product free to review but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Pancake Cake (inspired by Created by Diane)

2011-04-26T03:37:00.000-07:00

I am a follower of Created by Diane and she had a recipe for Pancake Cake. Well it caught my eye because my mother loves pancakes, so much so we of course tease her for it. Because what is family for?

Well Diane's version used strawberries and bananas. My kids will not eat bananas. So I wanted to make a maple version.

I made pancakes like normal.

I whipped up a mixture of cream cheese, maple extract, maple syrup, powdered sugar, cinnamon and brown sugar.

I layered this mixture in between the pancakes and stacked them and poured the rest of the mixture on top of the pancakes. Then I crumbled turkey bacon on top. My family was scared of this, and picked the bacon off. What kind of children did I raise that they TAKE BACON OFF OF ANYTHING. I see I need to start a reeducation camp ASAP.

This taste wonderful. I was told it tasted like some fancy schmancy food from IHOP. Yes in our neck of the woods, IHOP is fancy. Except on kids eat free nights.

But I was not happy with the icing on top. Don't get me wrong it taste great, but I wanted it a darker brown so that it looked like syrup. Then after it was done it occurred to me. The cream cheese made the color too light.

So next time I make it, I will add that mixture in between the pancakes but just whip up some powdered sugar, maple extract, milk? You know like the icing that is on maple cinnamon buns. That would be a darker brown color.

There is nothing like experimenting, with food ;)

Tuesdays At The Table
Tempt My Tummy
Delectable Tuesday
A Prairie Story
Fat Camp

Mint Oreo Brownies

2011-04-25T03:30:00.000-07:00

Mint Oreo Brownies

I got this recipe from Yesterday On Tuesday

Mint, Oreos and Chocolate goodness

Brownie Week: Coconut Swirl Brownies

2011-04-24T07:12:00.000-07:00

Coconut Swirl Brownies

Brownie Week: Butterscotch Brownies

2011-04-23T06:05:00.000-07:00

Butterscotch Brownies

Winner of Costume Squad Giveaway

2011-04-22T07:20:00.000-07:00

I follow you on twitter

amberpebs

Brownie Week: Red Velvet Swirl Brownies

2011-04-22T06:24:00.000-07:00

Red Velvet Swirl Brownies

Brownie Week: Winter Brownies

2011-04-21T04:09:00.000-07:00

Winter Brownies

LAST DAY TO ENTER GIVEAWAY WITH ONLY 41 ENTRIES

2011-04-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

COSTUME SQUAD TSHIRT OF YOUR CHOICE

Brownie Covered Oreos

2011-04-20T06:46:00.000-07:00

Brownie Covered Oreos

Cover Oreos in brownie batter (I used a mix). Put each covered Oreo in a greased muffin tin compartment. Bake at 350 for 10 mins.

I drizzled a little white icing over top for decoration (powdered sugar, milk and vanilla extract).

fat camp friday
it's a keeper
full plate thursday
the grocery cart challenge

Brownie Week: Double Peanut Butter Paisley Brownies

2011-04-19T04:03:00.000-07:00

Double Peanut Butter Paisley Brownies

Brownie Week: Brownies with Peanut Butter Frosting

2011-04-17T15:45:00.002-07:00

Brownies with Peanut Butter Frosting

Brownie Week: It's Kind Of Like Shark Week But Better

2011-04-17T06:59:00.000-07:00

I unofficially declare this week brownie week. Because, well why not?

Brownies are my favorite dessert, and there are so many ways to bake these scrumptious treats

Here is one from the archives

Brownies with Cookie Dough Frosting

Facebook Funnies Pt 3

2011-04-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

Funny Facebook Statuses

1. I think our smart phones are trying to make us look dumb by auto-correcting wrong words into our text messages!

2. Onions: $3.00, Caramel: $2.00, Popsicle sticks: $1.00. Watching your friends bite into a caramel onion thinking it's an apple: beyond priceless.

3. Sometimes you just see a post and think " yup its your own fault"

4. "How can we be lovers if we can't be friends?" You don't understand how sex works, do you, Michael Bolton?

5. is I hate when I buy a bag of air and there's chips in it.

6. Considering I’m broke, I wonder if she’ll let me be her sugar-free daddy

7. In a new poll, 80% of Japanese women admit to having faked origami

Like Me On Facebook

2011-04-14T07:44:00.000-07:00

I had to get a new facebook page, because they disabled my other account.

Click on the badge and like me on facebook.

I will re-do the 21 Day Weightloss Kickstart Giveaway.

Every facebook fan gets an entry into the giveaway, that is all you have to do to enter is like me on facebook. I will pick a winner May 17, 2011

REBECCA ST. JAMES’ “I Will Praise You” CD GIVEAWAY

2011-04-13T03:26:00.000-07:00

What a great CD!

It has several of my very fave songs. I was very luckyy to have the chance to review this. One of my fave things to do is listen to Christian music while I drive around to garage sales in the spring. It's my thang :)

You can go here to listen
Rebecca’s LISTENING PARTY

Rebecca St. James charts yet another new course with I Will Praise You, a new collection of worship songs she terms “ her most personal recording to date.” From the opening notes of track one, listeners are offered a welcoming connection with Rebecca’s recognizably authentic vocal warmth and delivery. More than anything, I Will Praise You represents the latest steps in Rebecca’s life long journey towards the presence of God.

Website

Facebook
YouTube
Amazon

You can win your very own copy of Rebecca St. James "I Will Praise You" CD

Mandatory Entry:

Be a blog follower and leave your email address in your mandatory entry. That's it!

Extra Entries

1. Like me on facebook (new facebook page) (10 entries)
2. Like Rebecca St. James on facebook (10 entries)
3. Share on facebook
4. Share on twitter
5. Blog about this giveaway
6. Add me to your blog roll
7. Add my button to your blog

Contest ends May 1, 2011

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Chocolate Chip Bars

2011-04-12T15:35:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

2 cups butter, softened

1 1/2 cups sugar

1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar

4 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon water

4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

3 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

1.In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugars. Add eggs, vanilla and water; beat until smooth. Combine flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Fold in chocolate chips. Press into three greased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pans. Bake at 375 degrees F for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

tempt my tummy
delectable tuesday

Winner of Old Time Candy Giveaway

2011-04-12T15:26:00.001-07:00

Winner of the Old Time Candy Giveaway is Charlene!

Thank you for entering and thank you to Old Time Candy. What a great service!!!

LAST DAY TO ENTER OLD TIME CANDY GIVEAWAY

2011-04-11T03:28:00.000-07:00

OLD TIME CANDY GIVEAWAY 4/11

Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce Giveaway

2011-04-07T04:19:00.000-07:00

Barbecue Sauce

It's more versatile than most people realize.

Ssshhhh, I add a shot of barbecue sauce to my chili.

I also add it to my meatloaf.

Now my meatloaf is different than most people's meatloaf. I use Morningstar Farms soy crumbles intead of ground beef. So I can't give you a good recipe because I have never made meatloaf with real meat.

But I add the soy crumbles to a bowl with some seasonings (seasoned salt is always a good one), and a little chopped onion. I microwave this for a few mins because the crumbles are frozen.

Then I add an egg and pour some bread crumbs to the mixture as well as some shredded cheese.

I cook for awhile and then take the meatloaf out and top with ketchup mixed with brown sugar.

This time I used Country Bob's Sauce and it was wonderful. I also added a shot of the sauce to the actual meatloaf (makes it more moist)

I loved the taste. My kids were happy to use the sauce to dip their fries in one night. And my daughter is super picky. This sauce passed the test with every family member and that rarely happens.

Would you like to win 2 bottles of this amazing sauce??

Mandatory Entry

Check out the super cute website and tell me a recipe you would like to try if you won Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce.

Extra Entries

1. Name another Country Bob's product you would like to try

2. Follow Country Bob's on Twitter (3 entries)

3. Like Country Bob's on Facebook (3 entries)

4. Follow me on Twitter (3 entries)

5. Like me on Facebook (badge is right corner)

6. Blog about this giveaway (5 entries)

7. Add my button to your blog

8. Add my blog to your blog roll

9. Share on facebook (2 entries)

10. Share on twitter (2 entries)

Good luck. Contest ends April 30, 2011. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

US only

I was given 2 bottles of Country Bob's Sauce to review but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Thrift Store Finds

2011-04-04T04:26:00.000-07:00

I love snack plates like these. I already have some or I would have bought these. I don't know why I am drawn to them. It's not like I take these plates full of cookies and saucers of milk into my study at night?

I thought this couple were interesting. The cat, was waaaay more hideous in person. The woman, so cute. I love all things Amish. Except the going without electricity part. I wouldn't be able to blog, or straighten my hair.

Costume Squad Giveaway

2011-03-31T09:18:00.000-07:00

Costume Squad is a super cool website to get humorous t-shirts and costumes.

I mean you tell me where else you can buy a Garbage Pail Kid T-shirt

I love looking through the Best Sellers

I love the selection of costumes. They have the coolest 80's costumes, group costumes even costumes for your dog.

I love this

Would you like to win your very own T-Shirt from Costume Squad?

One winner will receive a t-shirt priced $16.99 or less of your choice!

Mandatory Entry

1. Go to Costume Squad and tell me what shirt you would pick

Extra Entries

2. Like Costume Squad on facebook

3. Join Costume Squads email list

4. Like me on facebook

5. Follow on twitter

6. Add my button to your blog

7. Add my blog to your blog roll

8. Share on facebook

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10. Enter any of my other giveaways

Contest ends April 20, 2011. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen.

2011-03-30T08:40:00.001-07:00

Myfourboysand1 won the Tropical Traditions Organic Hair Oil!! Yay congrats.

Baby's 2nd Birthday Party

2011-03-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

Being the weird perfectionist retro housewife that I am I love presentation when it comes to bday parties, holidays and get togethers.

For baby's 2nd birthday party I made cupcakes (from box mix) and dyed the icing neon colors using neon colored food coloring.

I served my Nutella "Fancy Smores" since they were such a big hit at the Mommy Party.

I bought a store bought cake and added M&M's all over the cake and cotton candy on top.

I made a banana split brownie cake by layer in a springform pan; little debbie snack cake browines, strawberry icecream, banana slices, hot fudge sauce, vanilla ice cream and maraschino cherries.

I then made cute pink and white cookies by making my cake mix cookies and adding a few drops of hot pink food coloring making the cookies have a marbled look. Then I made an icing for them mixing juice from maraschino cherries and powdered sugar. I also added more pink cotton candy to the middle of the plate as decoration.

I love to have fresh flowers in the middle to really pull everything together.

LAST CHANCE TO ENTER LOW ENTRY GIVEAWAY

2011-03-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

TROPICAL TRADITIONS ORGANIC HAIR OIL

DON'T MISS OUT THIS STUFF ROCKS