Raggy Lady

Recent Activity

2012-02-09T13:31:00.000-06:00

Robot Quilt approx 46 by 40 perfect for a little boy. $65

Front consists of orange chenille and various prints of flannel. Professionally quilted and binded.

Back is a yellow flannel.

Owl Flannel rail quilt 47 by 60 $100. Professionally quilted and binded

Pieced back is all flannel

Front is pieced with Debbie Mum Owl print with light blue, yellow, and tan coordinating flannel

Can also make coordinating receiving blankets and/or taggie blanket with discounts for bundling.

Menu Plan

2012-01-31T07:56:00.000-06:00

So I have been horrible about blogging Will you forgive me?
I menu plan every week but never find the time to type it on the computer...

They say a a picture says a thousand words :)

Have a great day!

Wow it has been too long!

2011-12-30T22:48:00.000-06:00

I didn't realize I had gone so long without posting. I am not making excuses but it is not easy to post from my phone. I do not find time to post from the computer. I have been busy decorating, sewing, and baking for Christmas.

I love Christmas season and everything about it! I love to give to the people that are dear to me! I was able to make many Christmas gifts this year and loved it!

This first pictures was not for Christmas, but for a friend who is expecting a boy in just a few short weeks now

One side of a coordinating taggie

The back side

Dino Fleece and orange minky made for my friend's son

Spiderman fleece with red swirl made for my dear friend's son

Hot pink fleece and cream swirl blanket for my daughter's BFF

Yellow Jacket/MU blanket made for my son's best friend to match his own blanket

And here is an update on my 4 babies

Eva Joyce, Dakota, Kamilla, and Charlie after their visit to Santa at Bass Pro Shop

Some pictures of our home at Christmas time!

They were very good helpers this year!

View from kitchen to dining room and entry way

Kids' Tree

View from the kitchen to our living room

The pretty purple and silver tree
aka Momma's Tree :)

Still Here

2011-10-12T22:04:00.000-05:00

I am still around just in a crazy season of life!
House is still being remodeled...going on month 4 now.
I am working on orders and baby gifts.

Here are 2 blankets I finished recently

I am hoping to post a 'the house is finally done' post soon!!!!

Pork chops for Angela

2011-09-08T21:51:00.000-05:00

This post is for my friend who like to know exact times for cooking....my oven is not yours but I took pictures just for you. I did 8 minutes on each side not on the very top rack but the next one down and broil.

View from side so you can see thickness....little bit of Lawry's seasoning salt

Side one after 8 minutes

Side 2 after 8 minutes

I put it on top rack for 3 min to brown it some more

Love ya!

Finally a quilting post

2011-08-29T22:25:00.002-05:00

So I have been sewing....it is hard to find time to sew much less the time to BLOG about it.
So here's a quick rundown in no particular order.....

Taggie Blanket for Carter

Dr. Suess Quilt and Coordinating taggie

Bug quilt set with taggie blanket and receiving blanket

Train quilt set with taggie and receiving blankets

Rag quilt for a friend...bartering is a great invention

Taggie blanket for a sweet boy

Minky and Satin blanket b/c Mommy had one...but I forgot to take a pic of mommies' blanket

Superman quilt for a special birthday boy!

Baseball Taggie

Baby Girl quilt set with Taggie, receiving blankets, and burp cloths

Baby girl quilt

Taggie set with receiving blankets and burp cloths

Turtle rag quilt I made for my Charlie's 2nd Bday

That's laid out on my KING size bed

2 blankets that were a very big project between me and Ayme :)

Much Better August 3, 2011

2011-08-04T12:08:00.000-05:00

Today is a much brighter post...

God has the ability to work everything out, even my own insecurities.

He allows the right people to say the right thing at exactly the right time.

Yesterday I had too much caffeine too late in the evening and didn't get to sleep early enough, but during those moments of lying in bed I was still....I prayed for God's wisdom and protection. He answered my requests in a way I never would have imagined and a lot faster than expected!!

I serve an awesome God!!

Proceed with caution.......

2011-08-02T15:11:00.000-05:00

Not a positive blog post, so don't read if u want to be encouraged or uplifted or if you just don't need more negativity in your life.......

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I have a lot of pet peeves...today I'm going to rant and rave about a few of them....
***If you borrow something please return it....
***Don't say 'let's get together',' let's do a playdate', or 'Let's hang out sometime' unless you really mean it. As adults we don't have to be friends with everyone, but don't say something just to be polite.
***Dont say you are going to do something unless u are going to do it.
I only have one fear and that stems from real life experiences but there are many things that drive me to the brink of tears....
I don't like to be ignored
I don't like to be in a one sided relationship
I don't like people that always have good intentions but very rarely follow thru with them
I don't like to feel lonely
I don't like to be excluded
I don't like that other people can make me feel so bad
I don't like feeling sad
I don't like feeling like a failure
I don't like when I can't fix things for my kids...which I know will only get harder as they grow

Sometimes the negative things in my life have positive outcomes....I'd like to think I look for the blessings in every situation but I have to spew out all the negatives. I would love to some day be able to look over the negative and get right to the sunny side of life but I am not there yet.................

I look at these faces and I want to do better FOR THEM!!!!

Growing Pains

2011-07-21T18:44:00.000-05:00

Growing Pains
July 17,2011

A friend reminded me today nothing happens by accident. Along with the reminder from my pastor on Sunday that God has a plan for me! I am trying to take each lesson as a growing opportunity.....

God put me where I am, at this moment! He has plans that are meant for Good and not harm...the plans are for my hope and my future.....Jer 29:11

The children God has entrusted to me, the husband he blessed me with, the family and all my friends he has given me is all according to his plan. Maybe I am in my Esther stage and God has placed me here for such a time as this!!

I am in a place of blessing.....no major issues pulling me down, just LIFE! and sometimes I feel like I am being stretched beyond my limits. If I allow him to, God will give the Grace to get through these growing pains. I just have to be open to receiving that Grace!

Until then if you think about me just say a little prayer b/c sometimes these growing pains are more than I can handle. I am so glad that I don't have to...God is beside me and carrying me through ALWAYS!!!

Robyn

Hello again!

2011-07-14T11:22:00.001-05:00

I didn't realize it had been so long since I have posted. My summer has been crazy, has yours?

June 1st was the start of summer school!

We Love Bright Beginnings!!

Crazy but fun.....

Father's day we spent at the Lake!

Afternoons spent on the slip and slide

An Fourth of July was a BLAST!!! (pun totally intended)

Who can resist chubby baby feet?

Annual Fourth of July family pics (they will learn to love them)

The lanterns were the hit of the night!

Third night in a row of fireworks!

She loved them!

I also have had a remodel/add on going on since the middle of June!

Started looking kinda like this (i forgot to take a before picture)

Today it looks like this

I have also had blanket projects to keep me busy! Orders are coming in just enough to keep me busy and I am loving it!

Jacob's birthday quilt

Dr Suess Thing one Thing two quilt.

Rag quilt for a friend (I bartered for her excellent computer skills)

She loves it even if it doesn't cover her toes ;)

Baby Bug quilt top I can not wait to get it back from the quilter

Two taggies made for a friend for her 2 little boys

The material has been moved how many times?

We also went on a float trip with some of our friends, but I don't have any pictures of that to share just yet!

That has been the first 6 weeks of summer and we are enjoying it!

I would love to hear about your summer!

Robyn

Random thoughts

2011-05-16T14:52:00.000-05:00

*i am thankful for my children, but really question how God thought I was capable of handling the ones he blessed me with.

*i feel I am generous to a fault and too often find my self in one sided friendships. Its really starting to get to me, but it makes me appreciate the friends I do have that give as much as I do!

*i find it hard to admit how sometimes u have to ask for help even when it isn't the most convenient!

*i know God is blessing my efforts with my children...I do my best and yet seem to fail more than I care to admit!

*sometimes chilling with the babies doing nothing is so relaxing...and sometimes its not

*i am amazed how God works and his beauty is everywhere

*i have yet to master the let go and let God philosophy

Work in progress :)

2011-05-03T09:11:00.000-05:00

I have had a sick fussy baby and lots going on so I have not been able to post much!

Hopefully this week or next I will have some posts on the following

Rag Turtle quilt I made for my little man
2 primary color qults with a matching Layette

I am thankful for orders and the way God provides!

Robyn

March 24th 2011

2011-03-24T15:24:00.000-05:00

Today started out a little rough! I woke up and realized the floor people were coming today to measure for new flooring. (My daughter decided ironing the carpet was a good idea! Yes it was my fault I left it plugged in and in the wrong room) Anyways my living room was a mess!!! I didn't want the guy hurting himself by tripping over a toy. So I was frantically trying to clean up while baby Eva was still sleeping. Belt on vacuum....broken :( so I did the best I could. Once I had it semi picked up I had to fold the laundry that was sitting on the couch. Amazingly enough this task went quickly. Well as quickly as it could while doing many other things such as google chatting with my sister! Lol we WERE talking about cleaning and a mom needs her 'adult' time. Well as I was putting the older kids' laundry in their room (they put their own away in the drawers) there was a knock on the door....he was an hour EARLY yikes. So there were still 2 laundry baskets of clothes on the couch but he measured anyway.

I really didn't like my carpet so I guess this is a blessing...?

Then I put baby Eva down for a nap, fed my other 2 and read a few books. Then they went down and Eva woke up. She seemed happy so I brought the excersaucer into the sun room and turned on my Pandora and started sewing. I got 2 of my 3 blankets done before Eva got bored!

We changed rooms and I worked on a wedding present and am now rocking Eva to sleep. I hear Charlie talking in his crib. I love days that feel productive and are spent loving on the young ones. And I would be lost without technology because I am blogging from my phone while rocking a baby to sleep! She is snoring so I better try and put her down. Get my little boy and cuddle some.

Brownies

2011-03-20T20:50:00.001-05:00

2 nights ago I had a craving for a brownie Sundae....last night it was still there so I went to my pantry ahhhhh I was out of brownie mixes. This is a very rare occurrence I usually have at least one of everything in my pantry (sometimes more than one). Well with 4 children 5years and under (at least for one more week) and living 6 miles outside of town I don't make quick trips to town not even for a brownie craving. My husband didn't even indulge me in my pregnancy cravings unless he was still in town, but I regress. Sunday rolls around and I still think a big fudgy brownie sundae sounds soooo good. So I search the Internet and find a from scratch brownie recipe at www.hillbillyhousewife.com

1 cup melted margarine (2 sticks)

2 cups sugar

4 medium eggs

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa

1 teaspoon vanilla

1-1/4 cups flour

Melt your margarine. In a large bowl and combine the margarine and sugar with a spoon or whisk. Add all four eggs, and beat the mixture until it is sort of fluffy and emulsified. Add the salt, cocoa, and vanilla. Stir up really well. Add the flour. Stir again until the mixture is thick and chocolaty. Turn the batter into a well oiled 9 by 13-inch pan. Bake at 350° for 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cool before serving. Cut into 32 small squares.

Me and Kamilla start attempting it.

All the while this is what the boys are doing

and Dad and Eva

and she had been waiting to do this

and this

We decided to let Dakota in on the clean up......

And here is the verdict. It cured my craving, but I need to try again. The recipe called for a 9x13 pan but I like thick brownies so I used my 9x9 pan and cooked 10 min longer than suggested and the middle didn't get quite as done as I like. Next time I will cook a few minutes longer.

I added baking chips to the batter and also on top

My husband had surgery on his hand so he can't do much but hold the baby if she is sleeping so that is what I let him do. I was able for an hour or so to pretend I wasn't sick from pregnancy or didn't have a newborn and was able to be a fun mom again!! I thank God for every single one of my children but I have been pregnant or nursing since December of 2006 and am really OVER it!!!!!
It was fun to cook with my big girl without worrying the baby girl was gonna wake up. It gave me a glimpse the future and I am very excited!!

And then we went outside to enjoy the beautiful First day of Spring

In my head 3/11 But not posted until 3/17.......

2011-03-17T07:02:00.000-05:00

In my head today...
My husband is the best! His heart is so big! I am praying for a successful surgery next week and a short stress free (or at least than normal stress) recovery.

I LOATHE waiting, but really who enjoys it?

I don't like that my baby girl is in pain and I can't fix it. I also can't believe she is already rolling over. Next week she will be a third of the way to her first Birthday!

I am very excited that my labels are being shipped today. It makes me feel like I am a real business. Now if I could get my heart to be less generous and stick to my prices!

I love my friends! They are just what I need when I need them!

I love learning and trying new things but also know my limits and know when to say maybe I can learn that later :)

I am loving the Beth Moore study on Daniel. I never knew I could like and understand prophesy and End times so much! Our God is Awesome and sometimes I am overwhelmed at how big he is!!

How is it I allow family to make me feel so small?

There are so many friends I miss and wish we didn't all live so far away!

Is excited my momma is coming for the week, I wish it was longer, but I am going to try and enjoy every minute she is here. (And hopefully finish my bag orders)

Daniel 2:21-22 He changes times and seasons; he de poses kings and raises up others.
He gives wisdom to the wise
and knowledge to the discerning.
22 He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him.
Have a great weekend!

Today!

2011-03-15T07:03:00.000-05:00

Today is the day!
All my husband's pain goes away.
That is our prayer!
Please join me in praying for Aaron today his surgery is at 930 am central time.
Thanks

Princess Kiki

2011-03-07T23:09:00.001-06:00

I have a friend who would do anything for me, actually I have been blessed to have a few of these friends, but in this post that friend is.....................

Tonya. (And her fantastic hubby Brian)

Awwww so in Love

She brings me Chinese when I'm pregnant and craving it, she helps me with my techy questions, she is my go to person for music questions, and she is my sounding board when I need it. I know if I need her for anything, even change a nasty poopy diaper, she'll be there for me.

She stopped by today and introduced me to her new addition Kiki, who I lovingly call Princess Kiki.

For anyone that knows me, KNOWS I am not a dog person and do not think dogs should be treated as human. With that said I LOVE Tonya so............I had a really bad weekend and needed to have a tangible 'something' that was complete. I always say being a mom is hard nothing is every finished, diapers, meals,dishes, laundry, and cleaning never end, which is why I sew. I need to finish something, to show myself, if no one else, I am still capable.

So what do I do? I make Princess Kiki a bed.....and I told my Tonya it is pretty but NOT perfect. I hope her Princess enjoys it. And I hope to make a blanket for her soon too.

Now I will go to bed :)

Menu Plan Monday for the week of March 7

2011-03-07T08:09:00.001-06:00

Basic Menu for this week.....

Monday Cereal for kids chicken something for Adults

Tuesday Deer roast and potatoes

Wednesday Chicken Chimis

Thursday-Captain Ds with the Smiths

Friday Pizza and salad

Saturday Chicken and roasted veggies

See other menu plans at org junkie

Menu Plan Monday February 28th

2011-02-27T21:57:00.023-06:00

Monday Pork Tenderloin, sweet potatoes, noodles and crossiants with strawberry jam

Me and my 2 oldest making above mentioned strawberry jam
Tuesday Frito dip for MOPS and McD's for kids and dad

Wednesday Chicken Chimichangas

Thursday Captain D's

Friday Pizza and pears

Saturday Generals Tso Chicken in the Crockpot over rice

Sunday Family dinner

See more menu plans at Org Junkie

Giving

2011-02-25T09:44:00.006-06:00

I have said it before but I will say it again....I am NOT a writer, writing actually is not something I am good at. That is why I choose to do recipes and sewing projects on my blog....not a lot of writing required. Sometimes I read something and I just felt the need to share. So if it sounds like I am rambling please forgive me.

I am currently reading a book recommended to me by my friend, who has 10 children and a very strong God centered marriage. The book is Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas and it is not an easy read. It is a book I have been reading since Eva was born bit by bit. In the chapter titled Make me a Servant I have been challenged.

Some of his points have really made me think about how and why love and serve others. 1 John 3:17 says "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?" This point has also come up in the bible study I am doing in the Book of Daniel. Through a dream that Daniel interprets God tells King Nebuchadnezzar Daniel 4:27b "Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed."

Many of our Bible study discussions have centered around giving and serving. Many of us have said we want to give but we are afraid others will not use it for what we intended it for. Thomas says "For John, there's no mention of a sinless brother or sister in need. His teaching is far more blunt---their need defines our obligation. It's a matter of God's love, not human evaluation or judgement. God doesn't say to love those who deserve it or even those who love you back. The point I am making is God tells us to serve and love others for His Glory not ours. This is a very difficult lesson for me to learn, maybe that is why I feel God is beating me over the head with it, and why I felt the need to share it. He goes into a lot more detail about how this topic relates to marriage. I wish I would have read and absorbed this book before I got married. If you are preparing for marriage, newly married, or just want to enhance the relationship you have now...I highly recommend this book.

I pray God continues to allow me to give to others my husband and family included and that I have the correct attitude while doing it. I don't want to give with the wrong motivation.

My Awesome Hubby

Menu Plan Monday Feburary 20th

2011-02-21T07:59:00.004-06:00

Monday Enchilada Stack with added Black beans and shredded chicken

Tuesday Pizza

Wednesday Deer Roast and sweet potatoes

Thursday Chicken Chimichangas

Friday Leftovers

Saturday Hamburgers with Mac n Cheese

Sunday Family dinner

Missing In Action.....no just busy

2011-02-15T21:43:00.007-06:00

I have not had time to blog my organization projects and I didn't meal plan this week.....here are a few pictures of what has been keeping me busy.

Visiting friends.......
Having snow days.......
Watching Ring around the Rosey
Cuddling this Cutie Pie

Menu Plan Monday Week of Feburary 7

2011-02-07T07:30:00.005-06:00

I don't know about all of you...but we had SNOW this week. My oldest was home 4 days this week. I enjoyed having him home, but I am ready to get back into routine. All our activities got cancelled for last week, so my menu didn't get followed. I am hoping to stay on track this week...wish me luck :)

Monday –Chicken Chimichangas

Tuesday-Taco ring

Wednesday-Crunchy baked chicken (via Christi Pickering) mac and cheese and Sweet potatoes

Thursday- General Tso Chicken in the crock pot served over rice.

Friday-Pizza

Saturday-Breakfast

See more menus at orgjunkie.com

Menu Plan Monday January 31st

2011-01-31T07:54:00.005-06:00

See other Menu plans at OrgJunkie.com

Monday-Kids eating with Gma

Tuesday-MOPS-Rotel McD's Happy meals for kids

Wednesday-Honey and Garlic Chicken

Thursday-Pot Roast and potatoes

Friday-Enchilada Stack

Saturday-Family Dinner

Sunday-Super Bowl

52 Weeks of organizing Week 4 Pantry

2011-01-27T21:15:00.011-06:00

My pantry tends to get a little overwhelming from time to time. When my daughter was 8 months old I started my road to organizing it. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Tupperware Modular Mates and here is why. It can take a pantry from this .......

and this....

To this.....

and this.....

I didn't get to finish the left side but I hope to find time this weekend to fix that.

My daughter is now 3 1/2 amd I am still adding to my additction, I mean collection.

One of my closest friends now sells it and it is not such a good thing b/c she always lets me know of the great sales.

I wouldn't be a good friend without posting a link to her tupperware site.

my2.tupperware.com/bethasmith

Find other organizing projects at Orgjunkie.com

52 weeks of Organizing

2011-01-21T14:11:00.008-06:00

At first I wasn't sure I would be able to join this......52 weeks is a long commitment to make and really, did my house have 52 things that needed to be organized?? Would I have time with a newborn?

So I decided to participate when I can and not stress when I can't. I will not I usually do not take before pictures, but maybe someday I will.

Join me in this path to organization at Orgjunkie.com

Here is 2 kitchen cupboard I organized yesterday morning.

It felt wonderful this morning when I opened the cupboards.

Back to the Grindstone

2011-01-18T14:32:00.009-06:00

My baby girl turned 2 months Sunday and I wondered where the time went to. I was finally able to find some time to start sewing again. Here are a few projects I was able to create this week.

Brightly Colored Bag!

This bag I created for a friend's teenage babysitter who adores bright colors!

It has 2 center outside pockets and 2 pockets inside. I hope she likes the bright colors.

Sage and Brown Tag Blanket

This Car seat sized blanket pairs cream satin with dark brown furry fleece, I used the combination of sage green and brown ribbons. This blanket was a first for me, it is embroidered with baby boys initials. I do not have a machine with this capability but a shop down the road from me can do it for me. I was nervous about how it would turn out....there are some things I would do differently next time with the size of the monograms but I LOVE the way it turned out.
I hope Mom and baby love it too!

Menu Plan Monday January 24th

2011-01-14T20:17:00.007-06:00

Menu Plan Monday at orgjunkie.com

Monday-Leftovers

Tuesday-Deer Roast and Scalloped Potatoes (didn't make last week)

Wednesday-General Tso's Chicken from Crockpot pg 83 of Crockpot cook book

Thursday-Leftovers

Friday-Pizza Pockets-I will use frozen yeast rolls (thawed) instead of making my own dough

Saturday-Meatloaf and Roasted veggies

Sunday-Family Dinner at the in-laws

Meal Plan Monday January 17th

2011-01-13T08:22:00.008-06:00

Menu Plan Monday at orgjunkie.com

Monday- Tostadas
No specific recipe Spread beans on a tostada shell add meat, cheese and olives and place in oven until warmed thru and cheese is melted. Top with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and Salsa.

Tuesday-Zesty Burger Soup
MOPS Texas Caviar

Wednesday-Deer Roast and Scalloped potatoes

Thursday-Chicken Chimichangas

Friday-Dinner at a Friend's house

Saturday-Chicken Enchilada Stack I plan on adding chicken

Sunday-Family Dinner at the In-Laws

Menu plan Monday (a little late)

2010-09-15T17:32:00.002-05:00

I had my menu planned on Saturday but haven't had time to write it up. So far I have followed it which is great for me :) I also planned the next week too so maybe next week I will get it posted on Monday :)

Monday-Ranch Salsa Chicken breast with steamed veggies and noodles

Tuesday- Crescent Chimichangas with steamed veggies and salad

Wednesday-Meatloaf with cheese, mashed potatoes, and corn and roasted sweet potatoes for hubby

Thursday-Freezer day Chicken Manicotti with peas and bread
Friday-leftovers

Saturday-hubby is grilling Steak potatoes and veggies

Sunday-Family dinner

Follow all menu planners at Orgjunkie.com

Walgreens less than $5 challenge

2010-08-02T12:06:00.003-05:00

Went to Walgreens today hoping to save some money, and take a challenge from Keeping the Kingdom First
Here's how it all played out I am not sure how to word all this it's my first time.....Any suggestions to improve format are welcome.
(I had all three children with me 5yr, almost 3yr, and 15 month)

Buy 1 Crayola Crayons 24-pk @ $1.00
Total OOP 1.00
RRs Earned= $1.00

Crayola Markers $3.00
$3.00 mail in rebate
Total after rebate $0.00
Total OOP $1.00

Ban Deodarant $3.99
Walgreens coupon $2.00
MGF coupon from Sunday paper $1.00
Total OOP $1.99

Dawn dish soap $1.99
Walgreen coupon -$1.00
MFG coupn from Sunday paper $-.25
Total $.74
Total OOP 2.73

4 boxes Jello $4.00
Walgreens coupon 2/$1
Total $2.00
Total OOP 4.73

With 1.00 in RR still outstanding (Which I used to reward the kids for good behavior)

Will I use everything??
I am not attached to my current deodrant so was willing to try a different brand for $.99. Crayons and markers were free and I will probably donate to Crayon crusade in town b/c ya'll know that I don't allow markers in my house yet :)) and we have plenty of crayons right now. Dawn is a great dishwashing liquid so I was willing to have that as an extra on hand. Jello is sugar free and Hubby is on South Beach and it is one dessert item he is allowed :)

Zucchini Pizza Casserole

2010-07-12T20:27:00.011-05:00

Zucchini Pizza Casserole
This is a recipe I came across last year when I wanted to use up the abundance of Zucchini I inherited. It was absolutely yummy!!!!

4 cups shredded unpeeled zucchini
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Favorite pizza sauce, spaghetti sauce or plain tomato sauce
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
Pizza toppings of choice

This time I used red onion on half and Canadian bacon and black olives on the other half.
I also used whatever cheese I had on hand for the topping this is a blank canvas to change to your family's desires :)

Directions
Place zucchini in strainer; sprinkle with salt. Let stand for 10 minutes. Squeeze out moisture.

Combine zucchini with the eggs, Parmesan and half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Press into greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish.

Bake, uncovered, at 400° for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add tomato sauce; spoon over zucchini mixture.

Sprinkle with remaining cheeses; add toppings.

Bake 20 minutes longer or until heated through. Yield: 6-8 servings.

I forgot to take a picture before we ate, but the whole family devoured it!!

Baby Rag Set

2010-06-13T14:39:00.011-05:00

Rag Blanket set for Baby

Here is a set a made for an auction to benefit the KLQ education foundation

The blanket is a jungle print with coordinating green, brown, and cream snuggle fabric.

It measures 39in by 39in. There is a raggy side and a smooth side, it has been washed and dried twice in cold water to help it fray and the more you wash it the softer and fluffier it becomes.

2 large receiving blankets in coordinating cream and green measuring 33in by 33in are great for swaddling, and cuddling.

Matching bag is made of jungle print snuggle flannel and coordinating green and cream cotton. It can be used as a diaper bag or an everyday tote for mom or grandma. It measures 15in tall 15in wide and 5in deep and has a 14 in drop handle. It includes two 9 by 5 in pockets and two 5 by 5 in pockets inside and an 5 by 5 in outside pocket for keys or cellphone.

House Monthly Account

2010-06-02T11:22:00.003-05:00

The Check-in Questions

1. Did you record all your spending this month?
Yes I download directly from our bank's website to an excel spreadsheet, then I itemize and categorize.

2. What are your goals for keeping a ledger? Analyze spending habits, Track where the money is spent, and Get out of debt.

3. Do you have a success story to share? No success stories this month :(
My all time favorite tip: I pay insurance every 6 months to save the monthly fee but I set aside 1/6th of it each month so I don't have to scramble for the money when the bill comes.

4. (Optional) How are your children doing with this? Any cute sayings from them, or progress in their financial education?
My children are 5, 2.5, 1 I am just beginning to teach the 5 yr old about money

5. Any helpful resources you've found?
Would love to but Internet searching has not been successful

6. Were you able to put aside some savings this month?
Saved the normal amount not much but every bit helps.

7. Comments or Thoughts? Love the though of this check in...maybe add a struggle that we are may have had that others could comment on?

Godly Character Traits (from Sarahs sweeties)

2010-05-28T13:48:00.004-05:00

I found this link on another Blog and I love love love it. I just need to figure out how to print from my computer. :)

Character Traits

Even though my kids are young I don't think it is ever to early to start teaching them these character traits and I love that they are referenced with a bible verse!

Feeling down

2010-05-24T13:23:00.001-05:00

I'm feeling down but depressed seems too extreme to explain it. I am trying to keep up with everything, but being pregnant just really takes way too much out of me. No matter how hard I try to act normal and do fun stuff with my kids I end up exhausted.
I can't figure out how to balance everything. I want to play with my kiddos, but if do the housework doesn't get done. On the other hand if I attempt to do housework I end up grouchy and snap at them.
I have a wonderful friend who cleaned my house from top to bottom while I was away and I am so grateful!! I love it when I have a clean house and I know that if I could do a little every day it could stay that way, but how do I balance the little energy I have between housework and playing?
So needless to say I am feeling down on myself today, I want to be able to play, clean, sew, and garden, but since Dec of 2004 I have been either pregnant or nursing a newborn. I know God has a plan for me but really is this it? To be completely sad and frustrated that I am unable to complete my duties as a wife and mother?? I am trying to cling to Jer 29:11 p, but on days like today I find it hard to understand how these plans are for my good and not harm. If u r reading this please pray I will stop feeling sorry for myself and figure out a way to find balance in this season of my life.

Yummy Cheesy Spaghetti Casserole

2010-05-20T16:12:00.009-05:00

Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

This recipe was given to me by Janice, our awesome mentor mom from out local MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers) chapter. She is a great asset to our group, one of the sweetest women I know, everything she brings tastes amazing!! The recipe here is what she used. I had to change a few things based on what I had available I have put the changes in bold

1 (4 1/2 lb.) chicken or chicken breasts I used 3 large boneless skinless breasts
1/4 c. butter
2 onions, chopped because I used tomatoes from the freezer that had onions in it I only used 1 onion
1 (16 oz.) pkg. processed cheese, chunked Velveeta 1/2 block
1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce I didn't have this on hand so I used some roasted tomatoes and onions I had in the freezer from last years garden
1 can cream of celery soup
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 tsp. salt
1 (16 oz.) pkg. spaghetti, cooked and drained
Cook chicken in boiling water. Reserve broth I used boneless skinless breasts so my broth wasn't very good so I used 2 cups of stock in a box.
Preheat oven to 350.
In a large skillet, melt butter and cook onions add 2 cups reserved chicken broth

Add cheese, tomato sauce, soups, salt and chicken, stirring until cheese is melted.

Place spaghetti into prepared pan, spoon chicken mixture over pasta and toss.

Bake 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly

Toddlers......

2010-05-20T11:27:00.004-05:00

My youngest Charlie is almost 13 months and loves to get into everything he is not supposed to. He climbs on whatever he can to reach what he wants.
We do not have a small house, but the way it is laid out it is not conducive to toddlers. We moved from a much larger house before this one. I have a computer desk in the breezeway, office supplies in the kitchen, and toys everywhere! I have tried to organize my brains out and just as I think I have it one of my toddlers figures out a way to get something out. For example this morning I had my purse up on the shelf and my 2.5 yr old (I still consider her a toddler) uses a kitchen stool to reach it and dumps everything out and gets in to the lipstick and chapstick I keep in there. As we are making beds for the day I find lipstick on the sheets and wonder where else it will pop up in the next few days. Then my 13 month old manages to move the small toddler bench in the kitchen and get into the rubber cement and scotch tape drawer. Luckily he was unable to open the rubber cement and my oldest brought it to me before any damage was done. We used gates when my 2.5 yr was in this stage, but since then we have moved furniture around and I can't figure out how to use them now. And honestly it really looks so much more cluttery...is that even a word I don't know.....with the gates up.
I am starting to stress out about adding one more, the first 6 months it won't be as big of deal b/c they can't move but once they are mobile the next 3 years make me insane.
I have tried to declutter and get rid of lots of extra stuff but with younger kids there is so much stuff! And with dry storage limited all the baby stuff is still in the house waiting for the next one....
I am very thankful for a great mother who is willing to help clean when she visits and a great friend who loves to organize and is willing to help. I am blessed beyond measure in many areas of my life. I am praying for a spirit of contentment. I am striving to emulate Paul and be content with everything Phil 4:11....For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. Someday I will do a post on my journey of Faith but it would be so long. Someday I hope to have time to sit down and from the beginning share my story, but with 2 toddlers and an almost Kindergartner I don't see that happening anytime soon :)

Better Day

2010-04-28T13:14:00.002-05:00

So my Wednesday is sooooo much better than my Tuesday! I am in a quilt block of the month club and I finally was able to cut out my April block. My goal is to finish each block by the end of month. I love this concept. I do a different block each month, I don't have to coordinate the colors, and I am learning which patterns I do not like :)) This month is a bear claw pattern and so far it is very time consuming, probably not one I will repeat.
Tonight is our community dinner at church so I don't have to cook dinner I am so excited! If you are in my area a free dinner tonight at the First Baptist Church 5-7pm.
I have gotten out of the habit of menu planning since getting pregnant and I really need to start again. It makes dinner time so much less stressful.

Bags for a Bestie

2010-04-28T11:55:00.010-05:00

Here is a photo journal of the Bags I made for Beth one of my bestest friends and her girls.

I stitched BFF in the bottom instead of the normal X's

Here is the front.....She loves the color purple!

(I find it funny quite a few of my bestest friends love this color)

Here is the other side
We went one day on a trip to Springfield to pick out material together.

She has 3 girls and she wanted them to have matching bags.

She wanted them larger than my previous small bag so I added sides and a bottom.

She used them as Easter baskets such a great idea!

Here is a picture of one of the small bags next to her Momma bag.

Ugh!

2010-04-27T15:51:00.003-05:00

This Post is not a positive one so if you need encouragement don't read it! It will probably be a huge ramble but I need to vent!!!

I have had a horrible day! My morning sickness is horrible today even with the Mocha from my wonderful friend. I have tried everything and nothing seems to be helping.....
My older children keep forgetting to close the bathroom door which means my youngest has put more body parts into the toilet than I care to admit. His head luckily is one that has survived..........the remote was dumped in as well, luckily it still works.
I have very little energy to chase them around and my daughter is into anything and everything she can get to! She doesn't listen to instruction, time out has been used more than 10 times today (which is also energy draining). One high point is Charlie took a 3 hour nap which probably means he just doesn't feel good. I am praying it is just teeth and nothing more serious.
The kids are always hungry, nothing I give them satisfies them. They have had oranges, grapes, apples, graham crackers, animal crackers and even an one oreo as a treat. It is sooo exhausting to be in the kitchen non stop. Normally I make them stick to a snack routine but today I got soooo sick of them asking and asking and asking so I gave in. Along with snack after snack creates dish after dish after dirty counter. I am so sick of cleaning up after them......I know this stage will pass and everyone swears I will miss this someday but I just can't see that at all....Maybe I will look back someday at this very post and Laugh.....Although as a Proverbs 31 woman I should "laugh at the days to come" Proverbs 31:25 not the days past but I am doing good to laugh at anything today.......
Well Hopefully my next opportunity to post will be more positive........I need to remember "The Lord's unfailing Love surrounds those who trust in him" Psalms 32:10b

Menu Plan Monday

2010-03-29T11:08:00.001-05:00

Monday- Crock pot night Cheesy Chicken and noodles
Tuesday- Manicotti for MOPs Spring Fling
Wednesday- Community dinner at church
Thursday- Fajitas with Guacamole
Friday- Pizza
Saturday- Quesadillas

Like it, don't like it

2010-03-16T12:48:00.014-05:00

Here is a yummy treat I sampled at my friend Trisha's house. I didn't ask the name of this treat, so when I was recreating it at home my son named it "like it, don't like it" He wasn't sure it would be something he would like. I think after u read the recipe, if u like peanut butter, u will have no doubts that this treat is Yummy!

Recipe

2 rolls of Chocoalte Chip cookie dough

Peanut butter

Chocolate chips

8 candy bars of your choice (crushed)

Open the 2 rolls of cookie dough and press it in the bottom of a 9x13 pan cook 12-15 min or until done.

>

Let set until cool yet still warm

Spread peanut butter over the dough.
>

Sprinkle on Chocolate Chips (I used white chocolate chips) and crushed candy bars. I used a mixture of Butterfinger Bars, Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, and Reeses Pieces. (my husband LOVES PB and doesn't like chocolate so I have to change almost every desert recipe I try)

Press all the toppings into the PB

Put in Refrigerator to set

Cut into bars and ENJOY!!!!!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-03-16T12:05:00.015-05:00

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

For Today ~ March 16, 2010

Outside my window... It looks dreary and I am wishing it could be like last Wednesday...Spring just gave us a teaser

I am thinking...My children are behaving so well today. They know Mommy doesn't feel good and they know it.

I am thankful for... The security of this country and all the decisions we are able to make and for all the service men fighting to keep it that way

From the kitchen...Manicotti is defrosting for dinner tonight

I am wearing... Jeans and a short sleeved striped polo

I am creating... finished the easter bags for my bestie, am almost done with the scrap quilt for my sister, and created 2 blankets this weekend.

I am going...to the Doctor and hopefully will feel well enough to make it to MOPS tonight and Wii dance night on Friday with the girls

I am reading...Proverbs 31 everyday for 31 days (a challenge from Revivie our hearts.com)

I am hoping/praying...that God helps me accept whatever he has trusted me with

I am hearing... Dakota play ping pong on Wii Sport resort

Around the house... I am loving my new dining room table it has been a blessing.

One of my favorite things...Hugs and kisses from my kiddos...today they are being given out generously.

A few plans for the rest of the week... Spring Break with my kids, Girls Night Out and finishing a scrap quilt and a rag quilt

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing...

Here's a favorite verse I am memorizing....know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:3

Menu Plan Monday

2010-03-16T11:47:00.003-05:00

I'm a day late, my hubby had an out of town dr appt today and I didn't bring the laptop with me.

Orgjunkie.com

Monday-Leftovers

Tuesday-Freezer night Chicken Manicotti

Wednesday-Community Dinner or Breakfast Omelets

Thursday-Taco Salad

Friday-Pizza

Saturday-Dakota's Pizza football party at Gma's

Sunday-Family Dinner or Grilled Chicken and noodles.

Busy Mom's Bible

2010-03-11T21:47:00.008-06:00

Zondervan had a free bible give away and I was a lucky recipient of a FREE Busy Mom's Bible. I was so excited when I received it in the mail. It is hot pink and brown sooooo cute!

I LOVE this Bible. It is so pretty, the pink leather is fabulous and has tidbits of pertinent topics at my fingertips. I am a mother of 3 under the age of 5 so time is not an easy thing to come by. I have found it easy to read daily and have been keeping a prayer and praise journal along with it. It has been such a blessing.

THANK YOU!!!!! Zondervan for offering this for free.

http://www.busymomsbible.com

Menu Plan Monday

2010-03-08T22:02:00.002-06:00

orgjunkie.com

Monday
Spaghetti Casserole, Garlic Bread, and green beans

Tuesday
Chicken Picatta, Green rice, and Pears

Wednesday
Church Community Dinner

Thursday
Taco Ring and Homeade Guacamole

Friday
Fried Venison tenderloin, mashed potatoes and gravy, and corn

Saturday
Leftovers with Salad

Sunday
Family Dinner

Texas Caviar

2010-03-02T10:18:00.001-06:00

1 can black beans
1 can black eyed peas
1 can red beans
2 diced roma tomatoes
1 can of corn or cup of frozen
1 bell pepper
1 red onion
2 small Jalepeno pepper seeded and veined
1/4-1/2 cup Italian dressing
Drain and rinse all beans and corn
Chop onion, pepper, and jalepeno
Stir all together add italian dressing and let flavors mix add more dressing if desired. Serve with tortilla chips. This dip tastes better if it is in the refrigerator overnight.

Menu Plan Monday March 1st

2010-02-28T21:30:00.009-06:00

Orgjunkie.com

MONDAY L-Quesadilia
D-Taco salad

Tuesday L-Chx nuggets applesauce
D-Crockpot-short ribs for home
MOPS Texas Caviar

Wednesday L-Cereal
D-Church

Thursday L-Pb&j
D-meatloaf potatoes green beans

Friday L Chx nuggets

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-02-27T21:49:00.005-06:00

“The Chewy”

Adapted from Alton Brown recipe

Ingredients:

2 sticks unsalted butter
2 1/4 cups bread flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/4 cups brown sugar
1 egg
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons milk
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans

Directions

Heat oven to 375 degrees F.

Melt the butter in a heavy-bottom medium saucepan over low heat. Stir together the 2 1/4 flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp baking soda and set aside.

Pour the melted butter in the mixer's work bowl. Add the ¼ cup sugar and 1 ¼ cup brown sugar. Cream the butter and sugars on medium speed. Add the egg, yolk, 2 tablespoons milk and 2 Tbls vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Slowly incorporate the flour mixture until thoroughly combined. Stir in the chocolate chips, white chips, and pecans.

Scoop onto parchment-lined baking sheets and chill or freeze. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown, checking the cookies after 4. Rotate the baking sheet at 4 minutes for even browning. Cool completely and store in an airtight container.

I like to double the recipe and keep in the freezer for easy cookies in the future.

Macaroni and Hamburgers

2010-02-27T21:15:00.001-06:00

I made macaroni and cheese tonight with cheddar cheese instead of Velveeta. I made the cheese sauce with butter, garlic and cream adding the Sharp cheddar and flour before adding it to the noodles. It wasn't as creamy and 2 cloves of garlic was too much, it was overpowering even for my garlic loving husband :) I served it with the yummy hamburgers my hubby grilled and steamed veggies that included zucchini, red onion, and carrots.

Turkey Enchilada Casserole

2010-02-25T15:35:00.016-06:00

This is a favorite recipe in our house and has been adapted from my Gma Visscher's Chicken Enchiladas.

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked shredded chicken or turkey
2 cans of cream of Chx soup
8 oz of sour cream (opt)
8 oz of cream cheese (opt)
1 can of green chilies or rotel
1 finely chopped onion (opt)
2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
6-8 corn tortillas

Usually I boil 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts but, this time I bought a turkey when they were really cheap around Thanksgiving. Aaron deep fried it and then I froze it in quart bags, I used one in place of chicken.
Chop or shred the meat
Mix the soup, sour cream, cream cheese, rotel, and meat
Use a deep casserole dish and grease lightly.
Spread a little of soup mixture on bottom of the pan. Spread soup on one side of a 2 corn tortillas and lay in pan.

Add more soup mixture to top and sprinkle with a 3rd of the cheese. Do this 2 or 3 times depending on the size of your dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheese.

Bake on 350 for about 45 min or until heated all the way through. Serve with Tortilla chips

I have made this recipe many times and it is very flexible, you can add black olives or any other topping your family likes the sour cream and cream cheese make it creamier but, if you don't have these ingredients on hand, it is just as yummy with just soup. If you prefer actual enchiladas you can fill the corm tortillas with soup mix and cheese and line the bottom of a pan and then cover with the remaining soup mixture and cheese. You can also use flour tortillas but they don't seem to hold up and become soggy.

Today 2/23/10

2010-02-23T12:38:00.010-06:00

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

FOR TODAY:

Outside my window...The Sun is trying to peek out of the clouds

I am thinking...He needs to be my everything

I am thankful for...my friends

From the kitchen...Mac and cheese

I am wearing...Jeans and my MOPS shirt

I am creating...Bags for one of my besties and her girls

I am going.....to cuddle with my kids more today than yesterday

I am reading...Classic Christianity

I am hoping...my afternoon is quiet

I am hearing...the hum of the fireplace fan

Around the house...there are rooms that need to be cleaned

One of my favorite things...is my Lindt Chocolate truffles from Valentines Day

A few plans for the rest of the week: Serving at a Community dinner at our Church, and Moms night out and a great Asian meal

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...my baby is 10 months old this week

Menu Plan for 2/22

2010-02-22T15:30:00.005-06:00

Monday-Pizza

Tuesday- Community dinner for Aaron

Wednesday-Church community free dinner

Thursday-Turkey Enchilada Casserole

Friday -Leftovers/MNO Asian at Cecilia's

Saturday Hamburgers and mac and cheese

Sunday Family Dinner

Contentment

2010-02-22T11:23:00.002-06:00

I am beginning to wonder if contentment is an achieveable goal for me. I don't struggle with wanting more stuff, I'm happy with weight, I'm 31 and am ok with that, and I know there are blessings all around me. There is just one area in my life I can't seem to wrap my arms around. It is a personal struggle that only a few even know exists.
I know that God can be everything to me if I will let go and let him, but the human side of me won't let go. I look back and when I have let go my life is different but not in a good way. My one little habit helps make so many other areas of my life go well. I know it is wrong and yet.....
We are reading the book Classic Christianity by Bob George at church and it has really made me think about the errors in my life, and has made me realize there are a lot of truths that I need to cling to.

More projects

2010-02-21T19:46:00.007-06:00

This is a under construction site here is a link to all my projects that are avilable for sale. If you have any questions or want more pics please email me at ragstagsandbags@gmail.com
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/album.php?aid=57788&id=1217115621

Chimichangas

2010-02-19T19:55:00.003-06:00

This is the basic reciepe I used. I got the reciepe from my sister-in-law and she said they did the salsa inside and they turned out soggy so we have never tried it. I also use a 9x13 pan not a cookie sheet. I have also used this "pocket" idea with taco ring filling and it turned out great! We served it tonite with Tortilla chips cream cheese and salsa dip and decided next time we may try to put it inside next time to change it up. All 3 of my kiddos ate these tonight.

Chicken and Cheese Crescent Chimichangas
from Pillsbury Best of the Bake-Off

Yield: 8 servings

1/2 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons oil
2 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken
2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
1/2 cup picante salsa
8 oz (2 cups) shredded Cheddar cheese
Sour Cream
Salsa

Heat oven to 350 F. Grease large cookie sheet. In large skillet, cook onion and garlic in oil until onion is tender. Add chicken; cook over low heat until thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.

Separate dough into 8 rectangles; firmly press perforations to seal. Spread about 2 teaspoons of the salsa on each rectangle to within 1/2 inch of edges. Stir 1 cup of the cheese into chicken mixture. Spoon heaping 1/3 cup chicken mixture onto half of each rectangle. Starting at shortest side topped with chicken, roll up; pinch ends to seal. Place seam side down on greased cookie sheet.

Bake at 350 F for 16 to 21 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven; top each with about 2 tablespoons of the remaining cheese. Bake an additional 1 to 2 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve with sour cream and additional salsa.