tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66955311468211199492024-03-18T19:56:28.388-08:00Been There, Pinned ThatA collection of things inspired by Pinterest.Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-83576500746365680712012-02-08T21:17:00.002-08:002012-02-08T21:25:21.450-08:00Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bites<div style="text-align: center;">I recently had a party where I needed some sort of dessert. I didn't want to bake, and I didn't want something straight off the shelf.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">While I was wandering Cost Plus World Market the day before the party, I saw this cool toothpicks with knotted bamboo at the decorative end. And it struck me (an idea - not the toothpick): I could do a dessert skewer!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Thus, Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bites were born.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7X3KxR4jlpRB5_ivsvX-LeQBWsokNLyUHbL47u8vyAaxndwlH1jKfcGLfezmp1awYPu6YleYth7zajqRXZfUiuxHDeeyi0bsd68qgth6mw0nKPE5mQPuOAiJNHUREnACDMI8gDtNRXg/s1600/2012-01-28_13-42-48_894.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7X3KxR4jlpRB5_ivsvX-LeQBWsokNLyUHbL47u8vyAaxndwlH1jKfcGLfezmp1awYPu6YleYth7zajqRXZfUiuxHDeeyi0bsd68qgth6mw0nKPE5mQPuOAiJNHUREnACDMI8gDtNRXg/s320/2012-01-28_13-42-48_894.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707001091076970882" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Ingredients:</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Strawberries - cut into halves or quarters, depending on size</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Sara Lee Pound Cake - cut into bit-sized cubes</div><div style="text-align: center;">Candy chocolate (or chocolate chips and a spoonful of Crisco)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">1. Skewer alternating chunks of pound cake and strawberry</div><div style="text-align: center;">2. Melt chocolate in microwave - stirring often.</div><div style="text-align: center;">3. Drizzle chocolate over skewered food (skewers should be placed on wax paper or something similar for this step).</div><div><div style="text-align: center;">4. Let set.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxb8IV6pOrcq80HOuNQnSNRzGLeUUlyNY9hni9uTfcw54orN7rPTWn_pRO30xU2PDm9lqR-_3AW7a-V0Viye9BMdmqcXzteGZeKg5ZbnZ-uQRVVLPcJb1awluPBDaO-H4QGIxPkfcEw/s1600/2012-01-28_13-42-25_173+%25281%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxb8IV6pOrcq80HOuNQnSNRzGLeUUlyNY9hni9uTfcw54orN7rPTWn_pRO30xU2PDm9lqR-_3AW7a-V0Viye9BMdmqcXzteGZeKg5ZbnZ-uQRVVLPcJb1awluPBDaO-H4QGIxPkfcEw/s320/2012-01-28_13-42-25_173+%25281%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707001087519990578" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-42139811278195615792012-02-08T20:52:00.003-08:002012-02-08T21:07:54.237-08:00Dinner Braids<div style="text-align: center;">I was bouncing along Pinterest one day recently when I came across <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/141159769540230382/">this</a> idea to stuff dinner inside a bread braid. I thought about how lazy I am when it comes to baking breads. And how generally lazy I am in making dinner when I have no other adults to feed any give night. So, I immediately wrote off the bread braid idea.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">One night while staring at my fridge - praying a fully prepared dinner would randomly show up on a shelf - I noticed a tube of Pillsbury crescent dough. You know, the kind that rolls out in one whole sheet. And that's when I realized I, too, could be fancy!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RsSlJ7FmEVdbW2rh_ynlTtYPN6LG3LCKSLUsbSAtYRj3hf0ds8ezyuAsTJYHOBq4UUHOxuyW1CaP_gcfLfppv1lYDxYM52je6tb7fHj-kOtkzj3Gt2KiAKMkp5xaMz0ET-mLUC65TA/s1600/2012-01-30_16-44-49_429.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RsSlJ7FmEVdbW2rh_ynlTtYPN6LG3LCKSLUsbSAtYRj3hf0ds8ezyuAsTJYHOBq4UUHOxuyW1CaP_gcfLfppv1lYDxYM52je6tb7fHj-kOtkzj3Gt2KiAKMkp5xaMz0ET-mLUC65TA/s320/2012-01-30_16-44-49_429.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706994797781907970" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Bread Braid:</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">1. Preheat oven to 375</div><div style="text-align: center;">2. Unroll crescent dough. Roll out or press out slightly with fingers.</div><div style="text-align: center;">3. Fill center third with whatever filling you want (see below for ideas)</div><div style="text-align: center;">4. Make cuts about an inch apart along the remaining two-thirds of the dough.</div><div style="text-align: center;">5. Braid pieces over each other.</div><div style="text-align: center;">6. Bake for 20-25 minutes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Simple, right?</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB3VuNYcfw64wjQzv9ynSbcfTphfr5xsw6N7lpetjF7PguOyVqXC8qjXe2eh6UqrEm3vfObDqYwQLE1tV9vqKZKmy9H-gs-sw6Rr0-NVgj0xLDAXakI5PfZlpBcmlxx6cuG7dXL7EGg/s1600/2012-01-30_17-07-55_662.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB3VuNYcfw64wjQzv9ynSbcfTphfr5xsw6N7lpetjF7PguOyVqXC8qjXe2eh6UqrEm3vfObDqYwQLE1tV9vqKZKmy9H-gs-sw6Rr0-NVgj0xLDAXakI5PfZlpBcmlxx6cuG7dXL7EGg/s320/2012-01-30_17-07-55_662.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706994801632637826" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Isn't it pretty?</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Filling Ideas:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Ham and cheese</div><div style="text-align: center;">- Pesto, mozzerella & sliced tomato</div><div style="text-align: center;">- Peanut butter, banana, and jelly</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKith5NaKzffuMJIjjnW4N_7M3CFiyroXd1ORURADaTM2MgPEQXxemRNtrCEZvaJchvCYJZ165ah5PRuBrbRr2yUOn74XH__rYzHXmvkWFWDQVBv9AckvTzk57RrN8bXWoa_c6qMsCmQ/s1600/2012-01-30_17-12-34_394.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKith5NaKzffuMJIjjnW4N_7M3CFiyroXd1ORURADaTM2MgPEQXxemRNtrCEZvaJchvCYJZ165ah5PRuBrbRr2yUOn74XH__rYzHXmvkWFWDQVBv9AckvTzk57RrN8bXWoa_c6qMsCmQ/s320/2012-01-30_17-12-34_394.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706994792624607266" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">- Small meatballs, marinara, mozzerella</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Pizza fillings</div><div style="text-align: center;">- Grilled veggies and cheese</div><div><div style="text-align: center;">- Taco fillings</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_iUorg3iM5Pay-J4ColSbAZCFWYwvQedTm_hXR3ZAOFLcjp3oSTWcg-J4tH-8NI6dtaT2BXXFR1sw5Xef6y0fJJtqjT_mRYtMWvD17hyphenhyphenbbzwIbcIIFgUhd1sS0FZ6OFDHgkxAImnGQ/s1600/2012-02-05_17-07-11_85.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_iUorg3iM5Pay-J4ColSbAZCFWYwvQedTm_hXR3ZAOFLcjp3oSTWcg-J4tH-8NI6dtaT2BXXFR1sw5Xef6y0fJJtqjT_mRYtMWvD17hyphenhyphenbbzwIbcIIFgUhd1sS0FZ6OFDHgkxAImnGQ/s320/2012-02-05_17-07-11_85.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706994784682806578" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Go Try it. See how awesome it is. Everyone will think you're fancy, too!</div><div style="text-align: center;">If you try any other fillings, let me know! I love new ideas!</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-23258744345771636412012-02-08T20:42:00.003-08:002012-02-08T20:52:00.128-08:00Brownie Bottom Cupcakes<div style="text-align: center;">The premise: A cupcake with a layer of brownie on the bottom</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The reality: A cupcake with brownie on the bottom</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's my attempt at <a href="http://iheart2stamp.com/2010/06/">here</a>. I'd say it worked out. It was yummy and easy to make. Two boxes of mix. Twice as many cupcakes as normal. All around, it's a simple, lovely way to make a "fancy" cupcake.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jFbTr1qAqTv-mSRG5Oj3-3fibwanBc3HVR_dkr08uQ1Ve0H_zBa7xS-jU4kEItISEsLM0EVchcNNXMlbHupLVCRVO38G9VfLe9JCrsY0j9x9IkOn-_Gjhup_i6z3bMRmMY4K1Pv-Ag/s1600/2012-02-05_17-43-25_941.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jFbTr1qAqTv-mSRG5Oj3-3fibwanBc3HVR_dkr08uQ1Ve0H_zBa7xS-jU4kEItISEsLM0EVchcNNXMlbHupLVCRVO38G9VfLe9JCrsY0j9x9IkOn-_Gjhup_i6z3bMRmMY4K1Pv-Ag/s320/2012-02-05_17-43-25_941.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706992052635258578" /></a> </div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-15771264280854693592012-02-08T20:32:00.003-08:002012-02-08T20:42:00.376-08:00Rolos Butter Bars<div style="text-align: center;">I'm addicted to a blog called <a href="http://cookiesandcups.com/">Cookies and Cups</a>. This chick makes super yummy looking desserts. I'm a fan. I haven't tried everything on her blog, but I have stared at the screen and drooled for hours. Of the few things I've made, they've been winners...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Except this one:</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuIv9ajlpMsoc5V7adIraoRyDoZasLFx89hRzklo9x-zDckN4GJrliaeY2yiYi49BPcIzbT3HDbrYQbRXsNx92EFPr4tqX6EWexdm0nmKdClmPFhG_a3RsUMWnw-7jB_Jl4Mpppfjdfw/s1600/2012-01-30_18-39-19_433.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuIv9ajlpMsoc5V7adIraoRyDoZasLFx89hRzklo9x-zDckN4GJrliaeY2yiYi49BPcIzbT3HDbrYQbRXsNx92EFPr4tqX6EWexdm0nmKdClmPFhG_a3RsUMWnw-7jB_Jl4Mpppfjdfw/s320/2012-01-30_18-39-19_433.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706990051606347858" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The blogger did a series on desserts using cake mixes. I'm not a purist. Cake mixes rock my world. So, I showed the pic of the Rolos Bars to my officemate and he started drooling. So I made them. And they weren't that exciting. They tasted an awful lot like cake mix and Rolos. I guess I imagined a buttery, caramelly, chocolately goodness. And it just wasn't that. </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I know I didn't botch the recipe (read it - you'll see why you can't botch it.) And I know the author of Cookies and Cups knows her stuff. But even when you're the best whatever-er in the world, you're going to make something less than a homerun every once in a while.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Now, I must get off the computer before I drool over her other blog entries.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-71039294702921447552012-02-08T20:23:00.002-08:002012-02-08T20:29:25.340-08:00Quick and Easy Appetizers<div style="text-align: center;">For years and years I've gone to this easy-peasy appetizer recipe for all my party needs. I throw everything in a crockpot and then just leave it to do its thing while I get ready for the party.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTa8NPV0nbqJl6UBLpgngxBlxGbEWFJJSQEGkMZPnqiKwWND-xb1FUem_bJwNk7iou3evk1Sz03Ls5AKwEqnSUrhKcNIW9gjmLpjwoGuU9gS3JtkbAt0_GR0etSMiXX_HEr9r6MLE6UA/s1600/2012-01-28_09-13-53_843.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTa8NPV0nbqJl6UBLpgngxBlxGbEWFJJSQEGkMZPnqiKwWND-xb1FUem_bJwNk7iou3evk1Sz03Ls5AKwEqnSUrhKcNIW9gjmLpjwoGuU9gS3JtkbAt0_GR0etSMiXX_HEr9r6MLE6UA/s320/2012-01-28_09-13-53_843.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706987332064276226" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Cocktail Meatballs:</div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Put into corckpot 1 jar (10oz) of chili sauce, 1 jar (12 oz) of grape jelly, and one package of frozen, cooked meatballs or lil smokies. Set crockpot to low for at least two hours. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Serve from crockpot with slotted spoon or toothpicks.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Moosetracks:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Why not put both meatballs and lil smokies in the crockpot? It's yummy and is a good source of giggles for the right (immature) crowd.</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-44995295157110347012012-01-21T20:50:00.003-08:002012-01-21T21:02:02.502-08:00Anniversary Gift<div style="text-align: center;">The day after my 9th wedding anniversary I wandered through the journal/gift section of Barnes and Noble and picked out a journal similar to the one here. </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpEtqU5M88my7WIxsyAbqlHrBFOrnp4H82pDefW1LpI_10p8dbd_417D6u2G2T493vHl5NhvirqtSjHveFNQL0j9x64axyryrM-A2YkHki6z2n_UxkG-2DfDd98lR4RTwmkZlQLAx8JA/s1600/101642041.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpEtqU5M88my7WIxsyAbqlHrBFOrnp4H82pDefW1LpI_10p8dbd_417D6u2G2T493vHl5NhvirqtSjHveFNQL0j9x64axyryrM-A2YkHki6z2n_UxkG-2DfDd98lR4RTwmkZlQLAx8JA/s320/101642041.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700314950468358834" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Starting that very night, I started a journal for my husband.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">The first page was a 10th anniversary love letter, explaining what the journal was and why I was doing it.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Then, every night of our 10th year of marriage, I wrote a journal entry. Most were short and sweet, some were long and wordy. But each one was a declaration of my love. And I always made the subject of the entry something that either he did, didn't do, said, or even something I saw/heard that reminded me of him. </div><div style="text-align: center;">The journal turned into 365 expressions of my love. Someday the only thing I could write was "The text message you sent me today made me pause for a minute in the middle of my crazy work day and remember why I work so hard when I'm away from home." </div><div style="text-align: center;">Other days, when we weren't communicating exactly as the perfect married couple should, I wrote something along the lines of "We're not happy with each other right now. In fact, I'm pretty unhappy with you. But that's why I'm writing this. No matter how frustrated I am with you, I know the feeling is this strong because I love you that much."</div><div style="text-align: center;">On our 10th anniversary, I wrapped up the journal and handed it over.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Still, almost a year later, Mr Moose will pull the journal out and read the words I wrote well over a year ago and understand the many different ways I love him and appreciate him.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Now, the trick is - at least for me - to figure out what to get him for our anniversary this year. Any suggestions?</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-59155313938145757852012-01-21T20:34:00.002-08:002012-01-21T20:42:31.606-08:003 Minute Bracelet<div style="text-align: center;">I was test-driving another project when I decided to take a break and wander through my craft supplies. I found some grosgrain ribbon and another strip of ribbon/trim of huge flowers (easily found in the by-the-yard ribbon area of your local fabric/craft store). I grabbed my needle and thread and a snap closure. That's it. Easy peasy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFvREUmcum7w8bhvgt2ikyLZuziYbjOU3Ax2KorP_rbS9nIxcfYK7hFF8qlmuuMVj_3nrP0Roe6lJ24y5DTAeRXrsIsWL2mWiPKTmxlgAtMB2XyDRVJd-hE0NsSZL_y1x1-N0-sJaBcA/s1600/2012-01-08_12-56-05_960.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFvREUmcum7w8bhvgt2ikyLZuziYbjOU3Ax2KorP_rbS9nIxcfYK7hFF8qlmuuMVj_3nrP0Roe6lJ24y5DTAeRXrsIsWL2mWiPKTmxlgAtMB2XyDRVJd-hE0NsSZL_y1x1-N0-sJaBcA/s320/2012-01-08_12-56-05_960.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700310491051605170" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Step 1: Cut off excess mesh backing from the flower/embellishment</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 2: Cut ribbon about an inch bigger than the wearer's wrist.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 3: Sew the flower/embellishment to the ribbon by hand.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 4: Sew each half of the snap closure to the ends of the grosgrain ribbon.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 5: Snap on the wearer's wrist.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Moose Tracks:</div><div style="text-align: center;">This really did take me three minutes to put together. </div><div style="text-align: center;">The sewing doesn't need to be amazing or precise (thank goodness.)</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm going to be making another one of these in a day or two because I want to see how it reacts with a spray or two of fabric stiffener.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I also want to see if it works better with some other form of closure. The snap closure works great, but I'm too lazy to really sew it down to make sure it doesn't come back up.</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-71440780735344529752012-01-21T20:11:00.002-08:002012-01-21T20:33:26.079-08:00DIY Feather Flats<div style="text-align: center;">All over Pinterest I've seen people pinning heels with trendy feathers attached in different ways. And I've loved them all. But I don't wear heels - for a multitude of reasons. So, my brain started churning and this is what I came up with: Feather Flats.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSbDupPxPNL1fjYxKbKHDbL7ele9xeS5Dr-B9RmfZWg9CfgqMo_baebW0cFn32MIRK_M9S2i3C9MkBXe_APPjIb-04o9dT7j87FtyRiCt-3QT2oVq_9jIIqLumalhTFD4hurNR76N5JQ/s1600/IMG_3409.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSbDupPxPNL1fjYxKbKHDbL7ele9xeS5Dr-B9RmfZWg9CfgqMo_baebW0cFn32MIRK_M9S2i3C9MkBXe_APPjIb-04o9dT7j87FtyRiCt-3QT2oVq_9jIIqLumalhTFD4hurNR76N5JQ/s320/IMG_3409.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700305788810579330" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Materials:</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Two feather fascinators (easily found in the jewelry/headband making section of your favorite craft store)</div><div style="text-align: center;">A pair of color-coordinating cloth flats (see Moose Tracks for thoughts on leather flats)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sewing thread in a coordinating color</div><div style="text-align: center;">Heavy-duty needle</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The feathers I found are the type used to make your own headband. The are glued to a backing and have loops the headband slides through.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhpPufiJGr7RrCNynAP6GOjcgePHU4_xc6gbTNwpckB-7q-uu1XDvoPed9YXl-JLlhCoCIq211bzTum7pwKjRh_Vh7Getof34mPPIzsSN_uQG9zR3y34LtaAXthOzzqW-G2OxGtoTaQ/s1600/IMG_3375.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhpPufiJGr7RrCNynAP6GOjcgePHU4_xc6gbTNwpckB-7q-uu1XDvoPed9YXl-JLlhCoCIq211bzTum7pwKjRh_Vh7Getof34mPPIzsSN_uQG9zR3y34LtaAXthOzzqW-G2OxGtoTaQ/s320/IMG_3375.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700305779872536514" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgc3zXtCj3-XcJPuQ9sFF59aaZCEjtuApLnIQmn0MYXfon8zlLUzs4pRQuY2jkY1JOKwL4iYDSGXpbUmltISFQu6S11D6MKKfwRZnZGFXB_qp4XVfdP0LliQvIxX3IdrruYJtDrGbFwQ/s1600/IMG_3374.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgc3zXtCj3-XcJPuQ9sFF59aaZCEjtuApLnIQmn0MYXfon8zlLUzs4pRQuY2jkY1JOKwL4iYDSGXpbUmltISFQu6S11D6MKKfwRZnZGFXB_qp4XVfdP0LliQvIxX3IdrruYJtDrGbFwQ/s320/IMG_3374.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700305783929881410" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Step 1: Remove any sort of decoration on the show in the area where you want to apply the feather. Use a seam ripper or small scissors.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhUsB0caW2XrsbO9IFIJdu5Ulj7CLZzgFGmVZIUD7pySn2hgqTTWNrPxlsp6DH4mC7YCFUFOCPvwP_Fb0Ronqhd2jvZ52wyMDZ7UsSHPazyVASfe7bfUKMwqb0pWLseesNzvuLg0mXvQ/s1600/IMG_3408.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhUsB0caW2XrsbO9IFIJdu5Ulj7CLZzgFGmVZIUD7pySn2hgqTTWNrPxlsp6DH4mC7YCFUFOCPvwP_Fb0Ronqhd2jvZ52wyMDZ7UsSHPazyVASfe7bfUKMwqb0pWLseesNzvuLg0mXvQ/s320/IMG_3408.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700305771462794114" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Step 2: Using the needle and thread, sew the feathers to the shoes. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaI-lIBxT9jPrgoJH41JDVCo3wlNSU-uN7Gu_XPlexTayrwbXZjGoWvHsQ_CdTLE_WL3Td0lLz4eGZ-dRQbTezRL9pPwA3_dy2oAeey61DL5tNLUqlPasN6lkWBiHvk3_2deT9qH-n8Q/s1600/IMG_3409.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaI-lIBxT9jPrgoJH41JDVCo3wlNSU-uN7Gu_XPlexTayrwbXZjGoWvHsQ_CdTLE_WL3Td0lLz4eGZ-dRQbTezRL9pPwA3_dy2oAeey61DL5tNLUqlPasN6lkWBiHvk3_2deT9qH-n8Q/s320/IMG_3409.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700305765735082770" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Step 3: Show those babies off!</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Moose Tracks:</div><div style="text-align: center;">I needed a thimble to help push the needle through the shoes and the feather. It wasn't difficult, but it's painful to push a sewing needle with bare hands.</div><div style="text-align: center;">If I can find some skinnier feathers (in a color/pattern I like, of course), I'd like to try wrapping/sewing the feathers around the heel of the flat. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm not a seamstress. I'm a lazy crafter. Because I used the right color blue thread, you couldn't tell how well I did or didn't sew. I made sure to get the edges of the feather fascinators and didn't worry about the center. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I did learn that any sort of large space between stitches results in a weird sensation on the foot.</div><div style="text-align: center;">If I'd had leather flats I'd probably have tried attaching the feather fascinators with some sort of adhesive cement that works on fabric and leather. Maybe I'll try that next time.</div><div style="text-align: center;">My total investment for these hip, trendy shoes was $9 for the flats and $4 for the feathers. So, pretty cool shoes for $13, right?</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-90497659120160439852012-01-21T19:47:00.003-08:002012-01-21T20:05:27.337-08:00Last-Minute Creamy Penne with Chicken & Broccoli<div style="text-align: center;">I have young kids. Two beautiful boys. And as much as I love them, I'm starting to notice that they depend on me. Greatly. Like how they want dinner every night, even though they were fed lunch, breakfast, and a snack or three. They still want dinner. Why is that?!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Well, until I can solve the problem of them having to eat so regularly, I chose to work on the problem of what to feed them. Some nights I just don't have it in me to make a four course meal for two little guys (hubs works nights. I don't feed him during the week, in case you were wondering.)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Last week I threw together some stuff and it turned out to be a pretty good dinner.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8h89jOuBWDbKautJxuaeHiw1QP-Oy1OriJoNu0X7DfTHx8PKrgmS2JwGFx8o1SqFLVnkRGNXtkSUSL_UksINwtL9QAZDrS572ceCuJJsC-DDwohZvSh1PKwmeaIwy5k2VJ0vees3LFQ/s1600/IMG_3393.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8h89jOuBWDbKautJxuaeHiw1QP-Oy1OriJoNu0X7DfTHx8PKrgmS2JwGFx8o1SqFLVnkRGNXtkSUSL_UksINwtL9QAZDrS572ceCuJJsC-DDwohZvSh1PKwmeaIwy5k2VJ0vees3LFQ/s320/IMG_3393.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700299341773713362" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Last-Minute Creamy Penne with Chicken & Broccoli</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">2 chicken breasts (no need to be thawed)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1-2 Tbsp Olive Oil</div><div style="text-align: center;">Salt & Pepper to taste</div><div style="text-align: center;">2+ cloves minced garlic (or equiv amount garlic powder)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 - 2 C broccoli florets, frozen</div><div style="text-align: center;">2-3 C Penne Pasta</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 C cream, half and half, or milk</div><div style="text-align: center;">2-4 Tbsp butter</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/4 C parmesean cheese</div><div style="text-align: center;">Diced tomatoes for garnish</div><div style="text-align: center;">Parsley for garnish</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Dice frozen chicken into bite-sized pieces. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add chicken, salt, pepper and garlic.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Brown chicken.</div><div style="text-align: center;">While chicken cooks, boil water for pasta.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Cook pasta and broccoli according to directions on pasta box/bag.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Just before pasta's done, scoop 3-4 ladelfuls of pasta water into chicken. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Add cream, butter and parm.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Stir until sauce thickens slightly.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Add in drained pasta and broccoli. Stir to coat.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sprinkle with minced/julienne/chopped parsley and fresh diced tomatoes.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy!</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-36583987648112493902012-01-21T19:41:00.004-08:002012-01-21T19:46:43.548-08:00Peach Bread (Canned Fruit)Peach bread. It's made of yum. <div>Have I told y'all I live at high altitude? It means some of my quick breads fall in the middle. But they're still baked wonderfully and are super yummy. I like to think of it as a feature of quick breads I make. </div><div>Without further ado, I bring you another bread recipe for canned fruit.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4VxAS2Vvpog7mKNGVcII5RfqMOZYIcoRAdSqW42DDpecx881YlFzmiSJ_9beyjOgti3HSjd0yUHYPQ0EwEJ5xA0dSds50doWNymOb2CVpNh5Xa8LNek1h1ICk4jdEUDxKhcKzS163OA/s1600/2012-01-16_15-41-13_236.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4VxAS2Vvpog7mKNGVcII5RfqMOZYIcoRAdSqW42DDpecx881YlFzmiSJ_9beyjOgti3HSjd0yUHYPQ0EwEJ5xA0dSds50doWNymOb2CVpNh5Xa8LNek1h1ICk4jdEUDxKhcKzS163OA/s320/2012-01-16_15-41-13_236.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700296582613742546" /></a><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">3 eggs</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">2 C sugar</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">2 tsp vanilla</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">1 C vegetable oil</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">3 C flour</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">1 tsp baking powder</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">1 tsp salt</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">1 tsp baking soda</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">3 tsp cinnamon</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">1 tsp orange zest/dried orange peel</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">2 C diced peaches, drained</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">1/2 C walnuts (optional)</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">Preheat oven to 350</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">Grease and flour bread pans (this recipe makes the equivalent of 2 8x4 inch loaves).</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">Beat together all wet ingredients.</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">Add in dry ingredients until combined.</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">Fold in peaches.</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">Pour or scoop batter into prepared pans.</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">Bake at 350 until a tester inserted in the middle comes out clean.</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">Note: For 8x4 loaves it's about an hour. For mini loaves I tend to get it done in just under 35 minutes. Muffins take 18-25.</div></div></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">Moose Tracks:</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; background-color: rgb(255, 249, 238); text-align: center; ">When you find something that works - stick with it. Peach bread is a variation on a theme of the Ginger Pear Blueberry Bread. See what I did there?</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-70137173360484386752012-01-21T19:26:00.003-08:002012-01-21T19:47:47.968-08:00Ginger Pear Blueberry Bread<div style="text-align: center;">It turns out I have a bunch of canned fruit. And I don't necessarily enjoy popping open a can and going at it. So, I've been trying to find ways to use the fruit. Here's one of the ways that's turned out darn good:</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzrWdaiQRl98krkrWdrdwy_MDnY0bqD6d3c6QGa-iKcKM5wuqLUjqSrqoHzjU2QYCE9abKK859vKN_HhB3CD6EEbBR7v_wPEsSBKlL0R2odAApDVxxkYHGMse7nijNe8x3OsmAhOaGQ/s1600/2012-01-21_18-51-38_511.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzrWdaiQRl98krkrWdrdwy_MDnY0bqD6d3c6QGa-iKcKM5wuqLUjqSrqoHzjU2QYCE9abKK859vKN_HhB3CD6EEbBR7v_wPEsSBKlL0R2odAApDVxxkYHGMse7nijNe8x3OsmAhOaGQ/s320/2012-01-21_18-51-38_511.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700293009178900754" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Ginger Pear Blueberry Bread</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">3 eggs</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 C sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 tsp vanilla</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 C vegetable oil</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 C flour</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp baking powder</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp salt</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp baking soda</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp ground ginger</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 tsp ground nutmeg</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp lemon zest/peel</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 C diced pears, drained</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 C blueberries</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven to 350</div><div style="text-align: center;">Grease and flour bread pans (this recipe makes the equivalent of 2 8x4 inch loaves).</div><div style="text-align: center;">Beat together all wet ingredients.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Add in dry ingredients until combined.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fold in pears and blueberries.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pour or scoop batter into prepared pans.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Bake at 350 until a tester inserted in the middle comes out clean.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Note: For 8x4 loaves it's about an hour. For mini loaves I tend to get it done in just under 35 minutes. Muffins take 18-25.</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-69902815488241691072012-01-02T20:29:00.006-08:002012-01-02T21:02:16.517-08:00Noon Year's Eve Party<div style="text-align: center;">My boys go to bed relatively early, regardless of what day the calendar says it is. Yet it's important to me to celebrate holidays with them. Which means New Year's Eve presents a problem for me. <i>I</i> don't even want to stay up until midnight, and there's no way I'm going to entertain my grumpy, tired children way past their bedtime. So, I came up with Noon Year's Eve. And when I say I <i>came up with it</i>, I mean 6 days until the new year I decided to go all out and throw a party. With a little more planning, some things would have been done differently. I'll explain those as I go along.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGPOiww4cEWN0U0VraqHnYvCfXfH9ymrHLLA4CfLQ6ZC1Bn_b8a97hvcwPAWccQPmtH8xGO-I3Z2iSkBnixG0G1q2zduWTz1GUNvk1FIF-HEryEhlKL8KCa5WSD2W2od3nzjmR__tqA/s1600/IMG_3351.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGPOiww4cEWN0U0VraqHnYvCfXfH9ymrHLLA4CfLQ6ZC1Bn_b8a97hvcwPAWccQPmtH8xGO-I3Z2iSkBnixG0G1q2zduWTz1GUNvk1FIF-HEryEhlKL8KCa5WSD2W2od3nzjmR__tqA/s320/IMG_3351.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693260164062455826" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The invitations - a confetti cannon. Blog post all about that can be found <a href="http://pinnedit.blogspot.com/2011/12/noon-years-eve-party-invites.html">here</a>.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosyuXeh-gC4-e52kp30ggwENewnNJoVB6hKONkVVYxBFzCHOasNPrFxNjTJ9iDOSUpp0pJAfWTWz2HX8uRjKuOnavhd-1tffIXhyliCWyxNfb9J-C5K2rDC35GUJ4__PmzMvWIByHAA/s1600/IMG_3322.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosyuXeh-gC4-e52kp30ggwENewnNJoVB6hKONkVVYxBFzCHOasNPrFxNjTJ9iDOSUpp0pJAfWTWz2HX8uRjKuOnavhd-1tffIXhyliCWyxNfb9J-C5K2rDC35GUJ4__PmzMvWIByHAA/s320/IMG_3322.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693260282337894098" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The decorations:</div><div style="text-align: center;">The New Year's banner at the top of the post. Ideally I'd have modified it so it said Noon Year. But on 6 days (three of which I had to work), it was good enough straight out of the package. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUQy3678iGs4jU3T-WXf1RwJeRm3_T_TOR3dKeT8IlKmpl93mPfvP6V3MwaTH1AyWVSF5-i09eLrhTljRDAQ8E5KT6l_ppKs5Cu075K9OVXM-JLPuOb_WqXd-1gfYuAVtMSqhcK8Zww/s1600/IMG_3350.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUQy3678iGs4jU3T-WXf1RwJeRm3_T_TOR3dKeT8IlKmpl93mPfvP6V3MwaTH1AyWVSF5-i09eLrhTljRDAQ8E5KT6l_ppKs5Cu075K9OVXM-JLPuOb_WqXd-1gfYuAVtMSqhcK8Zww/s320/IMG_3350.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693260161039866770" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I chose paper lanterns (unlit) to hang above the food area. I used 3M's Command Adhesive and hooks to hang up the lanterns (strung with fishing line). The color scheme was multicolored, is I have two multi-colored ones and a bright green lantern, all from Cost Plus World Market. </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I covered my island with a tablecloth cut to fit the odd shape. It kept the countertop clean and kept anyone from noticing the flaws in my laminate counters.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsP51a9CgWVOU5Gy2hFc79zg5Jo_n_DFN9WXjnlpwLglDgvZe23_8GxuZMRWV8-YjfYK91a3iFou4L9FtMnkIJOl5LFiWvPhrTDG635YpzSE_7eUO5UCJ2caDR6JFr1r75A6tMYgMEw/s1600/IMG_3349.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsP51a9CgWVOU5Gy2hFc79zg5Jo_n_DFN9WXjnlpwLglDgvZe23_8GxuZMRWV8-YjfYK91a3iFou4L9FtMnkIJOl5LFiWvPhrTDG635YpzSE_7eUO5UCJ2caDR6JFr1r75A6tMYgMEw/s320/IMG_3349.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693260156761000562" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The dining and craft area was pretty simple. Above the table I hung foil spiral stars (3 pack for each color, available at Walmart).</div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3JQU5MIuMKjmmcpQrDV6c6ExJf0dET2CWkQmKJI-JANwjm7HRX-i-ru-ll5ex38Ly9dUnR9weCLm-TR_qTXUK5_uqSnAkRBn2QMVNcbCA-uJzOwU6uoasMK1yA2Bcwy6gC4sD4hiOQ/s1600/IMG_3340.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3JQU5MIuMKjmmcpQrDV6c6ExJf0dET2CWkQmKJI-JANwjm7HRX-i-ru-ll5ex38Ly9dUnR9weCLm-TR_qTXUK5_uqSnAkRBn2QMVNcbCA-uJzOwU6uoasMK1yA2Bcwy6gC4sD4hiOQ/s320/IMG_3340.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693259381208487794" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">From the light fixture I hung some sparkly balls. These I bought from Cost Plus in an after Christmas clearance sell. If I had to make them I'd get some sequins and foam balls from a craft store and just go at it.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSc3jl80qw8FyGox4rr-H_r8A6YObV7Wfp443w_jHnv2rmE1YjnprDd510d68bDFwprwq6x1M0I3WPizTiDuDAKrb4mms3Qk3QNio2lbLWbf5-D_b8XDc0bhDbpjhKTYgTHaV_MjfFcw/s1600/IMG_3339.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSc3jl80qw8FyGox4rr-H_r8A6YObV7Wfp443w_jHnv2rmE1YjnprDd510d68bDFwprwq6x1M0I3WPizTiDuDAKrb4mms3Qk3QNio2lbLWbf5-D_b8XDc0bhDbpjhKTYgTHaV_MjfFcw/s320/IMG_3339.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693259377492133506" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The centerpiece was a cheap flowerpot and flower foam. I stuck after Christmas clearance sparkly things into the foam, and then covered the foam with multi-colored foil-covered candies. Easy peasy.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Crafts: Around the centerpiece above you'll see a collection of picture frame sets. They're little printed frames with markers. I found them in the $1 aisle at my local craft store. I was actually looking for foam frames and foam stickers.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I also had available a large bowl of random plastic beads and some elastic cord for do it yourself kid jewelry.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHxD8lkJ-kphme0riF6iMyGtCMetpVVl299DaDpPV60sOVkHKilRBTWue6bRkfNo7Qm0peSjRl0WUxGG-WQhTCVOBMh6Rd32zKSq0Vxj1NcICisQ7Z7lCD2TRazIp4Xjgf7bgMUAfIrA/s1600/IMG_3352.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHxD8lkJ-kphme0riF6iMyGtCMetpVVl299DaDpPV60sOVkHKilRBTWue6bRkfNo7Qm0peSjRl0WUxGG-WQhTCVOBMh6Rd32zKSq0Vxj1NcICisQ7Z7lCD2TRazIp4Xjgf7bgMUAfIrA/s320/IMG_3352.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693261887206947122" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">For party favors I went simple. A multipack of kid's star-shaped sun glasses (15 for $5.99 at my local party supply store) and some glow in the dark bracelets ($1 for 15 at my local craft store).</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihr6vj6FmZ5kpEd0nYsarrfwNbQ_UMEJKPwdg7ZWeB1Wt3MtOqiN4I1q0xbZB-_-AXzQAEkDLuDCRsa2tXCOUM9s5HSbkW94OZxrw0E-zq00-fIxumaGuiA0XAG8JJfL037MS7irz05Q/s1600/IMG_3346.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihr6vj6FmZ5kpEd0nYsarrfwNbQ_UMEJKPwdg7ZWeB1Wt3MtOqiN4I1q0xbZB-_-AXzQAEkDLuDCRsa2tXCOUM9s5HSbkW94OZxrw0E-zq00-fIxumaGuiA0XAG8JJfL037MS7irz05Q/s320/IMG_3346.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693261888169040674" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">For the countdown, I also provided an assortment of New Year's party hats. If I'd had more time, I'd have made my own hats that said Noon Years.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Food (sorry for the bad pics):</div><div><div style="text-align: center;">I found some cute framed chalk boards at Cost Plus World Market. I used these to provide the menu to guests.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ERmBBir5ZRf5HFJqDf47-77Oa1PKFFwvs0WylmyQ0ie0JXy0cXwrQI5K5-PGoroLmzeZXgv0da-uI0OMe17Dh4Kc14iNjxQlpHkyNtwKSHwlBg-KUqpWmJbo968bm83wQoJzAsaX5g/s1600/IMG_3336.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ERmBBir5ZRf5HFJqDf47-77Oa1PKFFwvs0WylmyQ0ie0JXy0cXwrQI5K5-PGoroLmzeZXgv0da-uI0OMe17Dh4Kc14iNjxQlpHkyNtwKSHwlBg-KUqpWmJbo968bm83wQoJzAsaX5g/s320/IMG_3336.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693259363685238418" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Lunch was a nacho bar. I had nacho cheese in one crockpot and chili in another, I also provided chips (I used some red/green Christmas ones, mixed with some yellow and blue tortilla chips), sour cream, jalapenos and salsa. Nachos could be dished up in standard nacho dishes (the red and white kind found at football games. You know the type.) The nacho bowls were easy to get at my local craft store. I provided smaller animal face bowls from Walmart. They were easy to find in the paper goods aisle.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCx4GWi33oKS_dvRoZEwmT5QKUP1MEVVfspbJjpR0yNbLo5hLNFgFMuglXIt-ymIJOBJU5InDFNesIseKDDDhp21p0swPqHknSRW3Q3C2mwF-vvA8JYvHPVlvAQQ6U95m8WRcUsy5S2Q/s1600/IMG_3337.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCx4GWi33oKS_dvRoZEwmT5QKUP1MEVVfspbJjpR0yNbLo5hLNFgFMuglXIt-ymIJOBJU5InDFNesIseKDDDhp21p0swPqHknSRW3Q3C2mwF-vvA8JYvHPVlvAQQ6U95m8WRcUsy5S2Q/s320/IMG_3337.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693259361497522066" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Dessert was a popcorn bar. I used pre-popped popcorn in popcorn boxes (craft store.) I had set out different popcorn flavorings (cheese, caramel, butter, and cinnamon sugar), along with lots of yummy mix-ins (mini Oreos, mixed nuts, mini M&Ms, and gummi bears) The kids loved being able to choose their own mix-ins.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOTF8gSnqsIRXApj9NEGFajrBNFKZUJl5Zrk0YzOPV4ryopaLVMZU0VzggpYXK4Q0TTqTvmmihnMwpAE14O1n1rNpnXGkjuBVwIoJnbNeFCPAkuMxbruPZUG08tfbr1uq4WP8_5XjVHQ/s1600/IMG_3365.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOTF8gSnqsIRXApj9NEGFajrBNFKZUJl5Zrk0YzOPV4ryopaLVMZU0VzggpYXK4Q0TTqTvmmihnMwpAE14O1n1rNpnXGkjuBVwIoJnbNeFCPAkuMxbruPZUG08tfbr1uq4WP8_5XjVHQ/s320/IMG_3365.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693259355057605890" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">We counted down to Noon, and then had a balloon drop (Instructions<a href="http://pinnedit.blogspot.com/2012/01/diy-balloon-drop.html"> here</a>.)The kids had a blast playing with the balloons for at least a half hour.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And that, my readers, is how the Moose household celebrated Noon Year's Eve.</div><div style="text-align: center;">The party was a success, was easy to set up, and even easier to clean up (aside from the 91ish balloon still scattered in my livingroom). We started at 10:30AM and said goodbye to our last guests around 1pm. It was short, sweet, and - most importantly - perfect for getting everyone to bed on time. We'll be doing it again next year - maybe a black and white theme for 2012...</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-49725386459998984212012-01-02T20:18:00.004-08:002012-01-02T20:29:22.155-08:00DIY Balloon Drop<div style="text-align: center;">For the Noon Year's Eve party I wanted something big to happen at Noon. And what kid doesn't love a gazillion balloons?! So a balloon drop it is.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglaVz7wXhvCbWwTzseSjDkmRp42k97jpPwAbGN5vGUlYVgwx32MSh6_YjmPFvVtL6KfEB4JuBsQp3w2s5v3Ym45XeJcZDUbIpYqG8u3PHx1qoKmo9rJMwrqX6rS3eCyJBuAmoD_yE5mg/s1600/IMG_3365.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglaVz7wXhvCbWwTzseSjDkmRp42k97jpPwAbGN5vGUlYVgwx32MSh6_YjmPFvVtL6KfEB4JuBsQp3w2s5v3Ym45XeJcZDUbIpYqG8u3PHx1qoKmo9rJMwrqX6rS3eCyJBuAmoD_yE5mg/s320/IMG_3365.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693255619183473714" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I used a standard paper tablecloth - the kind with a plastic backing, a piece of yearn about 10' long, a hole puncher, 91 balloons, and some confetti.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 1: Cut tablecloth in half to create two almost squares.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 2: Along the cut edge of each half, punch holes, approx 1" apart.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 3: Thread yarn through holes, creating a "zipper" through the middle of the tablecloth, making sure to leave most of the yarn hanging from one side (this will become the ripcord when it's time for the drop).</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3CKecvXNZ53e5FBdYwovxmZyMCZjlo6Ybw-qq8ObllBd2sEBPyXcta7vOqFhSR9ejyPAm3SNh8aP_FcSCJ6Au3VP5fvdbVHYKynY6JVNcKAAN4ddnM94RG_Ml9mzfyFoP8sDlSBJaQA/s1600/IMG_3344.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3CKecvXNZ53e5FBdYwovxmZyMCZjlo6Ybw-qq8ObllBd2sEBPyXcta7vOqFhSR9ejyPAm3SNh8aP_FcSCJ6Au3VP5fvdbVHYKynY6JVNcKAAN4ddnM94RG_Ml9mzfyFoP8sDlSBJaQA/s320/IMG_3344.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693256169413710498" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Step 4: Hang the tablecloth from the ceiling. Duct tape works perfectly for this. We used command adhesive and some plastic hooks. Just make sure you hang it so there's some slack in the tablecloth. That's where you'll put the balloons.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 5: Blow up balloons until your lungs hurt and your fingers are raw from tying the darn things. I used 91 balloons - a mixture of 7" and 9".</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 6: Place balloons in tablecloth. </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZyTgDWH8WQx3FVhjNMCPgi4Hol0afbvoz8dfXw9nVxhAoZNDp153uOBQvWOsqRgtlGKS0JAsLczSkRgBD8IzIR-iNKZumt4Xj8ho7pxZ2L3mhDJ6NCox4SPWLSGSoz2Ym1epGpI7NQ/s1600/IMG_3343.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZyTgDWH8WQx3FVhjNMCPgi4Hol0afbvoz8dfXw9nVxhAoZNDp153uOBQvWOsqRgtlGKS0JAsLczSkRgBD8IzIR-iNKZumt4Xj8ho7pxZ2L3mhDJ6NCox4SPWLSGSoz2Ym1epGpI7NQ/s320/IMG_3343.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693256180150779986" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Step 7: Throw confetti on top of balloons.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCX-9d_nlGiK9qFmHYTKWvZLrSuScVmgGngoHIFx8pS6dud6VqWJnPVXGNi23zk8gQHpofVd_Xai-w6EceR_S88JSUcdr6_CYJADGQ5Uck8RtB0-gnO-j4-vwyIasLhIH-004A-SbKIQ/s1600/IMG_3342.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCX-9d_nlGiK9qFmHYTKWvZLrSuScVmgGngoHIFx8pS6dud6VqWJnPVXGNi23zk8gQHpofVd_Xai-w6EceR_S88JSUcdr6_CYJADGQ5Uck8RtB0-gnO-j4-vwyIasLhIH-004A-SbKIQ/s320/IMG_3342.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693256173799294642" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">When it's time for the balloon drop, quickly pull the yarn ripcord. The balloons and confetti will drop. And the kids will love it (adults too!)</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglaVz7wXhvCbWwTzseSjDkmRp42k97jpPwAbGN5vGUlYVgwx32MSh6_YjmPFvVtL6KfEB4JuBsQp3w2s5v3Ym45XeJcZDUbIpYqG8u3PHx1qoKmo9rJMwrqX6rS3eCyJBuAmoD_yE5mg/s1600/IMG_3365.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglaVz7wXhvCbWwTzseSjDkmRp42k97jpPwAbGN5vGUlYVgwx32MSh6_YjmPFvVtL6KfEB4JuBsQp3w2s5v3Ym45XeJcZDUbIpYqG8u3PHx1qoKmo9rJMwrqX6rS3eCyJBuAmoD_yE5mg/s320/IMG_3365.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693255619183473714" /></a><br /></div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-59804738651669837472012-01-02T20:00:00.002-08:002012-01-02T20:16:03.597-08:00Silly Elfkins (Part 2)<div style="text-align: center;">The continuing saga of Elfkins, our Elf on the Shelf.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Again, some ideas are found from the pictures on Pinterest. Some are my own.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9MUCnaGnu37HzK2KBA1mzR7Cnw6w14ULxIZGFND0hG3RnV9u3fL6MC4zBNYAH_-0ZmgpB79PI8ZJ1JXwQ8MJivemilSJelqp6o_Dvjnhb1xZluPTEBigj-CGUddmIKcpqBTdGtEKAA/s1600/IMG_3228.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9MUCnaGnu37HzK2KBA1mzR7Cnw6w14ULxIZGFND0hG3RnV9u3fL6MC4zBNYAH_-0ZmgpB79PI8ZJ1JXwQ8MJivemilSJelqp6o_Dvjnhb1xZluPTEBigj-CGUddmIKcpqBTdGtEKAA/s320/IMG_3228.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693252493195864514" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins didn't quite make it back inside before Toddler Moose woke up. Good thing he flies with his ear muffs and scarf on! Silly Elfkins.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmQBhROXJVS3fk_Kp7b-bqplLaGODQlvZIQvwspQAk1Mgc-oJC7gGsKTj_NLbrQYqjVtOodtHOr4Mo4GmHLWhFHEe7d5lDtghZePV8DY521F5XVsVgjP1lRAgRUUVKM-5g4z-owEqDCw/s1600/IMG_3231.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmQBhROXJVS3fk_Kp7b-bqplLaGODQlvZIQvwspQAk1Mgc-oJC7gGsKTj_NLbrQYqjVtOodtHOr4Mo4GmHLWhFHEe7d5lDtghZePV8DY521F5XVsVgjP1lRAgRUUVKM-5g4z-owEqDCw/s320/IMG_3231.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693252488782975154" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins brought a new puzzle to play with. He even almost finished it by the morning. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DYdecbo-DSQ9-709smAv52l0aE2zuV2aiZa4LAJAJBY_LS8bgdmfq7wdCLfgHtPnGzgJFHb2g2ugU3kAmKS-xx4GFnLekxVDTI3EYv4Bc57kq-9pc07ZNw38J2DmyhrLrweTvqWFkA/s1600/IMG_3216.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DYdecbo-DSQ9-709smAv52l0aE2zuV2aiZa4LAJAJBY_LS8bgdmfq7wdCLfgHtPnGzgJFHb2g2ugU3kAmKS-xx4GFnLekxVDTI3EYv4Bc57kq-9pc07ZNw38J2DmyhrLrweTvqWFkA/s320/IMG_3216.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693252484116622178" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins hid out on a wall sculpture. This particular one is about 9 feet off the ground. Silly Elfkins.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_aSPZE8gwCp5hKNvHe-gdXMXoQKaHCKybBeSqPx6qXOfV4zSTsJDnsaAu8WuowqxVmb_TKleNy9x4HZScrCo9wTQI0evY1eQZExVO4w53cnJmeqgYd9SCi9wQ-dINU1KIrOjmI4NCA/s1600/IMG_3213.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_aSPZE8gwCp5hKNvHe-gdXMXoQKaHCKybBeSqPx6qXOfV4zSTsJDnsaAu8WuowqxVmb_TKleNy9x4HZScrCo9wTQI0evY1eQZExVO4w53cnJmeqgYd9SCi9wQ-dINU1KIrOjmI4NCA/s320/IMG_3213.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693252478028469874" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins dusted our fan, but got caught up there when Toddler Moose woke up the next morning. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThfmkQ2rodJxqavuj30qt3p5AgeKwq0CZrJHibGlGAUuF_wnLXbS2pq4mLicu7aCkMtGxJd9onIsbS7Hz7X56HVoa3loSRXNzyOSUfnWfrs3nRhqThofJmDCUEt9JQ1EShN8OlogYXQ/s1600/IMG_3211.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThfmkQ2rodJxqavuj30qt3p5AgeKwq0CZrJHibGlGAUuF_wnLXbS2pq4mLicu7aCkMtGxJd9onIsbS7Hz7X56HVoa3loSRXNzyOSUfnWfrs3nRhqThofJmDCUEt9JQ1EShN8OlogYXQ/s320/IMG_3211.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693252472913811410" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins hid Toddler Moose's stocking and replaced it with one he made at preschool. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnla0BtnTBMlReJQ-a8PtVBYOIVWqK273lak4TBDIab8UUVeuHEIbqAL8EJFk1jCszD4sefdFo0SOsWu_CiSZ8MqAirhZx0gjy2hbWeg-KHjdWvl7MetXKd6Ed1gucojqtKpgTatj1A/s1600/2011-12-20_20-34-46_849.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnla0BtnTBMlReJQ-a8PtVBYOIVWqK273lak4TBDIab8UUVeuHEIbqAL8EJFk1jCszD4sefdFo0SOsWu_CiSZ8MqAirhZx0gjy2hbWeg-KHjdWvl7MetXKd6Ed1gucojqtKpgTatj1A/s320/2011-12-20_20-34-46_849.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693251610593440482" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins started building a snowman army out of Marshmallows, toothpicks and Sharpie Markers. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMoBxF9xQ26nGvni3kr1XVpZE4SkBl0lSLtvpxSpd3pwqit1WSULqVi-k0onyCUHl5NXDS_UjRm4q65f0_fD658k05XRMCabmhYqx64xVi5cCSo7VG4OYdy2zcDgUT8Qk5isy7jJzmGQ/s1600/2011-12-22_21-10-44_569.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMoBxF9xQ26nGvni3kr1XVpZE4SkBl0lSLtvpxSpd3pwqit1WSULqVi-k0onyCUHl5NXDS_UjRm4q65f0_fD658k05XRMCabmhYqx64xVi5cCSo7VG4OYdy2zcDgUT8Qk5isy7jJzmGQ/s320/2011-12-22_21-10-44_569.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693251605198737682" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins doesn't know the password to the iPad, so he had to go with the physical Angry Birds game. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig4qTOD5YdaS-Q8YkO-WLdS15ohFJBzFpqsxGER5XEeA-CRQzU1_daaMOySeidG_3AUsPXM3tJ7VHFzyWxlXNEN6tgjXJVL7ZDoFn9D7yTe6whFdVV270FSE7tIsnPHCI_xTwngx0hSQ/s1600/IMG_3208.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig4qTOD5YdaS-Q8YkO-WLdS15ohFJBzFpqsxGER5XEeA-CRQzU1_daaMOySeidG_3AUsPXM3tJ7VHFzyWxlXNEN6tgjXJVL7ZDoFn9D7yTe6whFdVV270FSE7tIsnPHCI_xTwngx0hSQ/s320/IMG_3208.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693251601313088050" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Toddler Moose woke one morning to find Elfkins in the midst of partying hard. He was caught with pretzels everywhere and even a few Hershey's Kisses. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAstmmYEvt5n51k06pCV3cU-u_jFRHeO5sbOOOqShO_lUvIoyKc1KzkHCsW29dmGptM9p4tYeTNxkDRrrXPGRRNfS5Gt9H-LhnEy_ZaPzJq5HMPB5ARBmEunraLae-kAIWFHnZgQJVAQ/s1600/IMG_3206.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAstmmYEvt5n51k06pCV3cU-u_jFRHeO5sbOOOqShO_lUvIoyKc1KzkHCsW29dmGptM9p4tYeTNxkDRrrXPGRRNfS5Gt9H-LhnEy_ZaPzJq5HMPB5ARBmEunraLae-kAIWFHnZgQJVAQ/s320/IMG_3206.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693251594672410690" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins used some glitter to make a snow angel. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSJNZYeSTu-JISxR2-w_vsCgHEYrQH3iiWzKjKgE7O6CG9v8aXXEFACC8hB-32qXEYlKQtliPvXWaIT7pkldHIbY4sIcpz5r-uPGYsEYVUbvUp2qcrEaY6xk2oJ2tLj8VugExRIwCVA/s1600/IMG_3237.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSJNZYeSTu-JISxR2-w_vsCgHEYrQH3iiWzKjKgE7O6CG9v8aXXEFACC8hB-32qXEYlKQtliPvXWaIT7pkldHIbY4sIcpz5r-uPGYsEYVUbvUp2qcrEaY6xk2oJ2tLj8VugExRIwCVA/s320/IMG_3237.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693251590245240994" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The night of my birthday, Elfkins found himself helping to hang my birthday sign. Silly Elfkins!</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Not shown (the only picture I didn't get): Elfkins brought us a gingerbread train kit, and he even took the time to frosting-glue the pieces together. He must have known how impatient we are with that step in the process. Silly Elfkins!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have it on good authority that Elfkins will likely stop in a few times throughout the year to check on the boys. </div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-38169185838839264852012-01-02T19:52:00.002-08:002012-01-02T20:00:06.743-08:00Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken<div style="text-align: center;">So, my bestie has often mentioned this meal in text messages. And with only four ingredients, I thought I'd give it a try. It was easy and made plenty to eat. She has a twist on the meal. I'll happily explain that later.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohglFSlxXHUwBrtp70MpIV48FzvqGyZzymf8c8Pau_qv-IsLTry8JxXZrFE-QJNISQSR7WL_glpmcOHWp8YzpMKHhln3r2_XaYjjFmRbPUkLN8KEiz6_msx8So10iSOz8CggNcOLdOg/s1600/IMG_3382.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohglFSlxXHUwBrtp70MpIV48FzvqGyZzymf8c8Pau_qv-IsLTry8JxXZrFE-QJNISQSR7WL_glpmcOHWp8YzpMKHhln3r2_XaYjjFmRbPUkLN8KEiz6_msx8So10iSOz8CggNcOLdOg/s320/IMG_3382.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693249145510338530" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 jar Hawaiian barbecue sauce (I used Target brand/Archer Farms)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 can crushed pineapple</div><div style="text-align: center;">2-4 frozen chicken breasts</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rice</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Place chicken breasts in crockpot (spray with oil if not using a liner)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Mix pineapple and barbecue sauce. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Pour over chicken.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Let cook on high 4-6 hours, or low 6-8 hours, or until chicken falls apart easily with tongs.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Serve over rice.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiv8mMkin5eCKkEiySLwkxEtgVGiPCtgucY9yiRQ6pQAS-0kXrTWbFNunUZH5I6_u6XUeIiXrGuC_uSJGVg_M9S1-wGHzTfkd9_TeKryDI42CZLpd8wEwqH8NXjDKWmNq2wlLflSWfSg/s1600/IMG_3385.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiv8mMkin5eCKkEiySLwkxEtgVGiPCtgucY9yiRQ6pQAS-0kXrTWbFNunUZH5I6_u6XUeIiXrGuC_uSJGVg_M9S1-wGHzTfkd9_TeKryDI42CZLpd8wEwqH8NXjDKWmNq2wlLflSWfSg/s320/IMG_3385.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693249145354298770" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Mel's variation:</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Serve on bun with coleslaw. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy!</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-50681355082120329002012-01-02T19:41:00.002-08:002012-01-02T19:51:35.458-08:00Scooter Boards<div style="text-align: center;">My boys love anything with wheels. And if it's something they can do together - AND has wheels - it's golden in the Moose house.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So, we've made scooter boards. Pretty easy to make.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3b40U16rIEX_kMu4DjGdtLduGtoNha4atXplKYW0stRKIQbl50zn-kA1EeZahHquIhtY_v5h25doKo5VZKpIfEilVNQaVW8ihqY30HhZIpUqxL_yD8EGytmgAZ2a0raqr_hN0qvgDpg/s1600/IMG_3381.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3b40U16rIEX_kMu4DjGdtLduGtoNha4atXplKYW0stRKIQbl50zn-kA1EeZahHquIhtY_v5h25doKo5VZKpIfEilVNQaVW8ihqY30HhZIpUqxL_yD8EGytmgAZ2a0raqr_hN0qvgDpg/s320/IMG_3381.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693246710009421938" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Scrap wood - approx 14" x 14"</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">4 casters</div><div style="text-align: center;">16 screws, no longer than the width of the scrap wood</div><div><div style="text-align: center;">sandpaper</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlmzU10-VrzjYTyvgnxFwfHupQuVJgF7rhZU-M0pPuAmmpODjaHmso6MIUAl2fN61bvpUS5CfnR1wTQjO6xUsE3Xp5DA4JaXLTkXhAdzqbWwcSfuJP0GpGytrK8wBDdEjAGdhSkXseA/s1600/IMG_3377.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlmzU10-VrzjYTyvgnxFwfHupQuVJgF7rhZU-M0pPuAmmpODjaHmso6MIUAl2fN61bvpUS5CfnR1wTQjO6xUsE3Xp5DA4JaXLTkXhAdzqbWwcSfuJP0GpGytrK8wBDdEjAGdhSkXseA/s320/IMG_3377.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693246704970668610" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Cut board to size. Square is ideal, but a perfect square just isn't necessary. We used an old scrap piece of laminate countertop. It's what we had handy.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Attach a caster in each corner using the screws.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjdeXjYmyTtrc9vVGM8Fhv5HvMKeDGegKkn5XXMgUFRPKwYN4_RUBmcsKfgI2XNbN882swEcaUYAtvna6E8RBDGwyoWjYo9zMC4ugRJLTmBPECkpYV_AHLtqb1l6qYCd9ZnK7tmKd5IA/s1600/IMG_3378.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjdeXjYmyTtrc9vVGM8Fhv5HvMKeDGegKkn5XXMgUFRPKwYN4_RUBmcsKfgI2XNbN882swEcaUYAtvna6E8RBDGwyoWjYo9zMC4ugRJLTmBPECkpYV_AHLtqb1l6qYCd9ZnK7tmKd5IA/s320/IMG_3378.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693246696217556882" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Sand down any sharp/rough edges.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Have fun.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsWtvspOU7iNuRDVSLW099wjeW6SPxE-E3GABrjaTux5uW3klwVDi_JMnn0FjRCno-7EwkwPDUfkzeeNv0J2UzNyTvITdCTtcpAzVNJ2mU_hxEiGUER21BGobmqLVyqLVwKo2Fs4aH5A/s1600/IMG_3381.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsWtvspOU7iNuRDVSLW099wjeW6SPxE-E3GABrjaTux5uW3klwVDi_JMnn0FjRCno-7EwkwPDUfkzeeNv0J2UzNyTvITdCTtcpAzVNJ2mU_hxEiGUER21BGobmqLVyqLVwKo2Fs4aH5A/s320/IMG_3381.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693246694907576738" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Moose Tracks:</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">You could paint or decoupage or decorate the heck out of this thing,. I would have if it weren't for the laminate countertop material.</div><div style="text-align: center;">My boys love to take turns sitting on the scooter and having the other push him around. It's a ton of fun. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Baby Moose (shown above) is wearing a helmet. It's not because helmets are necessary on these (although it's never a bad idea), but because he'd just gotten off a motorized vehicle that did require a helmet.</div><div style="text-align: center;">We often move the livingroom furniture around to create some sort of a racetrack or obstacle course. Then the boys each take a scooter board and race. It's perfect rainy day fun.</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-52562577561945185202012-01-02T18:57:00.004-08:002012-01-25T12:56:01.857-08:00The Best Bread Ever<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">I've started 2012 by going to heaven. One bite of this bread and you'll grow wings and don the white gowns and everything. You'll hear imperial sounds and see shining lights that can only be from the maker Himself. Really. It's that good.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Friends, crafters, countrymen, I offer to you Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread. </div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">The recipe comes from <a href="http://cookiesandcups.com/reeses-peanut-butter-banana-bread/">this</a> awesome blog. I didn't modify a thing. I see no rel need to. Those who know me know how rare it is for me to accept a recipe as written. This is a big deal.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7gVk9EtEDg1kIbXkgzcN4FSRaBSSUmPTS-MN04F7WGRnLCzNnXbHc-GoIDgt77ESO68tlBfx9tHdoVtfV98LvaLI7l9wfL6YN6iqescZF8Lto1yL-Cqb1MUefagZ8-tZ7a6liN9O_9A/s1600/IMG_3386.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693240765638573794" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7gVk9EtEDg1kIbXkgzcN4FSRaBSSUmPTS-MN04F7WGRnLCzNnXbHc-GoIDgt77ESO68tlBfx9tHdoVtfV98LvaLI7l9wfL6YN6iqescZF8Lto1yL-Cqb1MUefagZ8-tZ7a6liN9O_9A/s320/IMG_3386.JPG" /></a> <br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread</div><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">3 very ripe bananas, mashed</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">1/2 C peanut butter</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">1/4 C oil</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">1 egg</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">1/2 C sugar</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">1/4 C brown sugar</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">1 1/2 C flour</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">1/2 tsp baking soda</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">1 1/2 tsp baking powder</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">1/2 tsp salt</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">8.5 oz bag of Reese's Miniature Peanut Butter Cups</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBnvbem2BSemWSo-mJWHzyCXf4njYJeg5Tem7erdKEmiY4ocvUNkjTFX3tT1r5-M1jRdGPnXkpkuem-FFgoMJaNTfe0wfRRFOfJ6QtpXMSpy3mqwcsiF8bGmJNSBlq8NEn-9GbL9TkQ/s1600/IMG_3387.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693240752274430338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBnvbem2BSemWSo-mJWHzyCXf4njYJeg5Tem7erdKEmiY4ocvUNkjTFX3tT1r5-M1jRdGPnXkpkuem-FFgoMJaNTfe0wfRRFOfJ6QtpXMSpy3mqwcsiF8bGmJNSBlq8NEn-9GbL9TkQ/s320/IMG_3387.JPG" /></a> <br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Preheat oven to 350*</div><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Grease loaf pan(s) (choose whatever size you want. I uses mini loaf pans)</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Stir together bananas, oil, peanut butter, and sugars.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients. Stir until moist. The batter will be lumpy.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Fold in Reese's Miniature Peanut Butter Cups.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Pour into prepared pan(s).</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Bake at 350*. 8x4 pans will bake for approx an hour. Smaller pans will bake less time. The mini loaf pans I used baked for 35-45 minutes.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Let cool in pan for 10 min. Then remove from pan and let cool, if you can.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh15BhmzBBHs26cErc0yQvrv5z4tpxLRhJsw6ZIsTbMrB40-dJ9W_XGG1zNSVSOMrz1112v5_dlT97T5A7xRaE92CyUW9bOOmqWSSD4brN6oCvhYcwgqshByrI6JsunK722EpXAEv0EPw/s1600/IMG_3388.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693240744582410962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh15BhmzBBHs26cErc0yQvrv5z4tpxLRhJsw6ZIsTbMrB40-dJ9W_XGG1zNSVSOMrz1112v5_dlT97T5A7xRaE92CyUW9bOOmqWSSD4brN6oCvhYcwgqshByrI6JsunK722EpXAEv0EPw/s320/IMG_3388.JPG" /></a> <br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Do you see how awesome this bread is? Have you gained five lbs just looking at it? Wait until you taste it. Your life will be changed forever.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Moose Tracks:</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">I used almost the whole bag of mini pb cups. In fact, I used all but one. because somebody has to do quality control.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">I prefer mini loaves to one large loaf. For many reasons. 1) They cook faster 2) They tend to brown evenly without the edges getting burnt and 3) I feel much less guilt when I admit to having eaten a whole loaf.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">If I were to make any changes to this recipe, it'd probably be to coarsely chop the pb cups before folding them into the batter.</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-78296536766076008802011-12-29T11:05:00.006-08:002011-12-29T11:27:21.468-08:00Big Yay Paper Chain Company<div align="center">Quite often I find I have friends in far away places counting down to something exciting. And I want to help them celebrate. So I developed my own paper chain kit company. It's not a true company, as I don't sell anything and no one buys anything. But nonetheless, I've made it look like a paper chain company. And here's the only product the company has:<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691629086087518338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpyaQtB_zuek39N5as0q-atTnxRZc4r6WL5zwWJyXMNGiQEogTt3LHJxQUyuW0JJWyelsfLl3wxtw_DMPtuoCmEdOjd5V_pi9zWRwRRDsZVG2t-TsY-yqtRBFYV2nIUYtSHHxxnOzMg/s320/IMG_3309.JPG" /> Big Yay Paperchain Company is a company that sends out build-your-own paper chains. I personalize each package, with stickers and patterned papers for the event.<br /><br /><br />With each kit I offer an instruction sheet. It explains how to make a paper chain. It also provides details about how many links are provided (enough to fulfill the countdown), as well as the day the countdown should start. I print that sucker out on plain paper, add a lovely black cardstock backing, and then get creative with a whole punch. I loop ribbon through the punched holes to make it more decorative. I'm pretty sure I haven't looped the ribbon the same way twice.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid7bXT3o1q3gE0S_Y2BmKk8i9eZEMjwefj4BdP3ZPlBu9u5kUHnjzKfw4NJ8g8SW-hDMOtWZ2_p8JRIJgrjf3VqLfK-nYLdfmA2LBpn6yvjSRQbVdOtHZ4M2_Z8n3RHPMDRIghRKE_lQ/s1600/IMG_3310.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691633314027339490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid7bXT3o1q3gE0S_Y2BmKk8i9eZEMjwefj4BdP3ZPlBu9u5kUHnjzKfw4NJ8g8SW-hDMOtWZ2_p8JRIJgrjf3VqLfK-nYLdfmA2LBpn6yvjSRQbVdOtHZ4M2_Z8n3RHPMDRIghRKE_lQ/s320/IMG_3310.JPG" /></a><br />When my friend was getting a (much needed) divorce and was counting down the days until it was final, I used girl's night out style paper. For my friend that was coming to visit, I used papers patterned with things about the area I live in. Another friend was counting down the days until her deployed husband came home, so I used Americana type paper. You get the idea.<br /><br /><br /><br />For the themed paper links, I use 12" x 12" scrapbook paper. I get 13 1" wide strips out of the paper (each is 1" x 11"). You'll need to figure out the quantity, which can be difficult since time keeps on ticking while you're creating and while it's in the mail. This is why I usually provide a start date.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsj6OL0t2T5CXyRXFkVdyiSu5n7lCDoOn8LjHtG99SdrHauJRMMMdxhIM5kyhHx5H_oszgkUSkOupE1Sv_Pj1Z-3Of2IO8AOVWCC6ZYtmuYUyTYut1_GyoeJb1xmwkUbvoJWCQ0htfug/s1600/IMG_3312.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691629100226357010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsj6OL0t2T5CXyRXFkVdyiSu5n7lCDoOn8LjHtG99SdrHauJRMMMdxhIM5kyhHx5H_oszgkUSkOupE1Sv_Pj1Z-3Of2IO8AOVWCC6ZYtmuYUyTYut1_GyoeJb1xmwkUbvoJWCQ0htfug/s320/IMG_3312.JPG" /></a> Package it all up with a little stapler. This makes the kit complete. Then mail it out.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHDiOlcYAO_Vhw491vceD18k5qkArp2OD36jh86rKoGA7BJlOPENkwVtGuyaJLY-meya9DfxiDcV3DgwZLl4N2ZGdxLqIVd0k3egrb1_5B2FXGRrpwAO3gMd1hYCDUPddd0zXIRRWRvg/s1600/IMG_3313.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691629090422804514" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHDiOlcYAO_Vhw491vceD18k5qkArp2OD36jh86rKoGA7BJlOPENkwVtGuyaJLY-meya9DfxiDcV3DgwZLl4N2ZGdxLqIVd0k3egrb1_5B2FXGRrpwAO3gMd1hYCDUPddd0zXIRRWRvg/s320/IMG_3313.JPG" /></a> </div><br /><div>I've only ever had good response from these. I don't ever tell the person it's in the mail. They know nothing about it until a random envelope shows up in their mailbox. And it's from some company called Big Yay! Paper Chain Company. Who wouldn't love that?!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691629086087518338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpyaQtB_zuek39N5as0q-atTnxRZc4r6WL5zwWJyXMNGiQEogTt3LHJxQUyuW0JJWyelsfLl3wxtw_DMPtuoCmEdOjd5V_pi9zWRwRRDsZVG2t-TsY-yqtRBFYV2nIUYtSHHxxnOzMg/s320/IMG_3309.JPG" /> </div></div><br /></div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-14853512927383248342011-12-29T10:43:00.002-08:002011-12-29T11:03:35.827-08:00Noon Year's Eve Party Invites<div align="center">So, I love celebrating holidays with my boys. But I also love their bedtime. And that just doesn't kive with New year's Eve. Heck, I'll likely be in bed before midnight. So, i'm throwing a noon Year's Eve party for the under 10 crowd.</div><br /><div align="center">First step is always the invite, right? I saw <a href="http://ohhappyday.com/2011/03/confetti-invitations-template/">this</a> confetti cannon idea and just had to do it. So I did (and you'll see i'm showing all of you on my lovely worksurface that's been through hell and back. Feel free to ignore the lime green lines and whatnot. they're not a aprt of the invite)</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691623288727446546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_F7j5JgpcMkiwxVRTuaiomQrNGpsR2PUGkk8qafRDWpqrNV6Fqte-nFXmxe3aWdvDXboaN-s1bHQY7rwAhIsbv-MzS3s1SPyw9TEYqTDQAHjUYqwDhDdMBmERsuuXT-BJ4ePcNdPeQ/s320/IMG_3322.JPG" /> First step was figuring out the party details. then making an invite on a long string of confetti. Confetti canons are about 1" in diameter, so you don't have a lot of room to work with. I used one side of the squares to write "It's a NOON Year's Eve Party" and the other side to provide details. We're starting the party at 10:30 so the kids can play, make a craft., eat lunch, and do the countdown (complete with balloon drop) at noon. Anywhoodles, make the invite.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYHFnHWQluJGH9WorqcGmvyfIZU5D1IqWUueaPpDPCPicf7VosStBjTNvbqxX9M4HyG6H52YLW4y-mPaPKfaOgU0VavgIKQxPgrtIwhmV0XvZuCKW9ZtzlcnapGe83LK0umC7OOVj_Q/s1600/IMG_3314.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691623305572362242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYHFnHWQluJGH9WorqcGmvyfIZU5D1IqWUueaPpDPCPicf7VosStBjTNvbqxX9M4HyG6H52YLW4y-mPaPKfaOgU0VavgIKQxPgrtIwhmV0XvZuCKW9ZtzlcnapGe83LK0umC7OOVj_Q/s320/IMG_3314.JPG" /></a>Then empty the confetti cannons. Two ways you can do this. 1) take off the label and remove the "seal" at the top. Dump everything out. or 2) Release the cannon, shooting confetti and streamers in your house. then reset the cannon by pushing down real hard and twisting until the cylinder is locked again. Up to you.</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">Fill the cannons: fold your invite in. Add 1" discs of paper or pretty paper napkin (like I did) to separate the invite from the cylinder pusher thingy and the confetti. Fill as full as you wish.<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj64VUFWXVJO-g13FpBpbcJuVMaqalDUtU6pKgzKg6bj42YtXn0WQLeldcZKE2sHhCg5DFTyEN-aqpDWQiiDlV63mAEUlHNiW5iX5pYFIh7nNh5ane1M2F58EQLVWS6ubR_AGYW6hPFmg/s1600/IMG_3316.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691623301793843346" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj64VUFWXVJO-g13FpBpbcJuVMaqalDUtU6pKgzKg6bj42YtXn0WQLeldcZKE2sHhCg5DFTyEN-aqpDWQiiDlV63mAEUlHNiW5iX5pYFIh7nNh5ane1M2F58EQLVWS6ubR_AGYW6hPFmg/s320/IMG_3316.JPG" /></a> Confetti!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPJQiMLnN2IpCWY-kMwg8sC0f1Wyy3HRr0gBpAmSPAtwZvz6NLodTeHNOU0iWhb_Bb9ySDWS0pV4poKmatSSybq76bv-p8bZ4Lu3aSTBd7YLIIHqoOlWxkkfSuwIJH-JvCus771ybPQ/s1600/IMG_3318.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691623296972094258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPJQiMLnN2IpCWY-kMwg8sC0f1Wyy3HRr0gBpAmSPAtwZvz6NLodTeHNOU0iWhb_Bb9ySDWS0pV4poKmatSSybq76bv-p8bZ4Lu3aSTBd7YLIIHqoOlWxkkfSuwIJH-JvCus771ybPQ/s320/IMG_3318.JPG" /></a> Cover the cannon with a piece of paper cut larger than the top. Use another strip of paper/napkin to hold the cover on. Tape the edge of the strip down, but not the paper (just like how the cannon was assembled when you bought it).<br /><br />Cover the outside with paper/napkin. The napkin had the colors I wanted, so it was an easy solution.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0eCgJmEG50Kf5i9JMREH1SrJMsCCKELFZwF3XWr_3F1sKderdEHZrehoviNIx1Wx9bZxBSWUbNL_cxndYnxsL7JN3VJZW3DnWp5LnhzmHpQynnW74AiTxx-kE0STOWJ0o4eI3T9ymA/s1600/IMG_3320.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691623292434784274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0eCgJmEG50Kf5i9JMREH1SrJMsCCKELFZwF3XWr_3F1sKderdEHZrehoviNIx1Wx9bZxBSWUbNL_cxndYnxsL7JN3VJZW3DnWp5LnhzmHpQynnW74AiTxx-kE0STOWJ0o4eI3T9ymA/s320/IMG_3320.JPG" /></a> Add a strip of paper at the bottom (made on your home computer) that says "Twist Me" and then has a directional arrow. My graphics abilities are limited to MS Word, and even I can do this. you can too!<br /></div><br /><div>Tape it on.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Hand out the invitations. See your invited guests' faces light up.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_F7j5JgpcMkiwxVRTuaiomQrNGpsR2PUGkk8qafRDWpqrNV6Fqte-nFXmxe3aWdvDXboaN-s1bHQY7rwAhIsbv-MzS3s1SPyw9TEYqTDQAHjUYqwDhDdMBmERsuuXT-BJ4ePcNdPeQ/s1600/IMG_3322.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691623288727446546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_F7j5JgpcMkiwxVRTuaiomQrNGpsR2PUGkk8qafRDWpqrNV6Fqte-nFXmxe3aWdvDXboaN-s1bHQY7rwAhIsbv-MzS3s1SPyw9TEYqTDQAHjUYqwDhDdMBmERsuuXT-BJ4ePcNdPeQ/s320/IMG_3322.JPG" /></a><br />I've passed out a few of these already (the party's Saturday, afterall), and everyone has loved the invitation! So easy and festive.</div><br /></div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-68241627147114087872011-12-11T20:17:00.002-08:002011-12-11T20:21:12.805-08:00Snow WritingWe live where it snows. And being stuck inside sucks. So, we have to get creative.<div><br /></div><div>a ketchup squirter, 1/4 C of rubbing alcohol, food coloring, and water make it more fun.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPKLmcNhYZ9mFHcyaMYYI1WejqrTnLtQppID7zDbmxh2m8MKKQkiF4ho31uAbv7GPXMWGE_Jxh-zi-IyL1xeLxttwM2EiJP6X9z39Uegi6kG-_1RYk5CMM8K1ctqSHEJ8zo0IAbDn3HQ/s1600/IMG_3194.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPKLmcNhYZ9mFHcyaMYYI1WejqrTnLtQppID7zDbmxh2m8MKKQkiF4ho31uAbv7GPXMWGE_Jxh-zi-IyL1xeLxttwM2EiJP6X9z39Uegi6kG-_1RYk5CMM8K1ctqSHEJ8zo0IAbDn3HQ/s320/IMG_3194.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685091571129743218" /></a>The more food coloring, the deeper the colors. The pic below was taken hours after the boys played outside. The color's still there. Too fun!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTH3UjimQkjsrNN4kisPFQ4AZ38Okh9SRojQeyTDav3HnjrwCYMW1J8wjnHqBYicaJcYCAy3Hl17BdY7AfI8Y0FPSCKVbRQVw9-ds5BP9l83uggnnhuDGIDZlASWq2BcAQxiShvIMxdQ/s1600/IMG_3195.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTH3UjimQkjsrNN4kisPFQ4AZ38Okh9SRojQeyTDav3HnjrwCYMW1J8wjnHqBYicaJcYCAy3Hl17BdY7AfI8Y0FPSCKVbRQVw9-ds5BP9l83uggnnhuDGIDZlASWq2BcAQxiShvIMxdQ/s320/IMG_3195.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685091566797862482" /></a><br /></div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-1565287888319961592011-12-11T20:13:00.002-08:002011-12-11T20:16:32.437-08:00Breakfast is servedThis is straight from <a href="http://www.rutherfordfamilyhappenings.blogspot.com/2011/12/decorating-christmas-tree.html">Pinterest</a>. Well, sort of. They used waffles. I used french toast. They used bacon. I used sausage. They used yogurt. I used powdered sugar. But yeah, it's from Pinterest. <div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHRtdq8lYfjMVYy_9yGMBeJQieLdff6WvsOau6X_hRViTO8hQQFo6oGeMv9ryyBHSm1V54Q0mi90Yd17ctD2uaGtlNOQne_JPvs1U5APSV6uxq0uoJupXNZWEwi5tCi_3xK9fwbcd5Q/s1600/2011-12-11_08-42-51_31.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHRtdq8lYfjMVYy_9yGMBeJQieLdff6WvsOau6X_hRViTO8hQQFo6oGeMv9ryyBHSm1V54Q0mi90Yd17ctD2uaGtlNOQne_JPvs1U5APSV6uxq0uoJupXNZWEwi5tCi_3xK9fwbcd5Q/s320/2011-12-11_08-42-51_31.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685090229234559074" /></a><br /></div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-57763517290804945862011-12-11T19:35:00.008-08:002011-12-11T20:10:14.665-08:00Silly Elfkins!<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; ">Elfkins is a lovely little creature that's joined our family this Christmas season. And like all little Elf on the Shelf recruits, he gets into a bit of mischief while we sleep.</div><div><div style="text-align: center; ">Every morning Toddler Moose goes on the hunt for Elfkins. And I always know the second he's spotted because I hear "Silly Elfkins!"</div><div style="text-align: center; ">Below you'll find the many different ways we've found him when we wake up in the morning.</div></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4CLrQ8WyhGTPDgv2gKYjdEql8ZX_XLj4ooO4Ro7pxBIMHNsJl0PyJHBEX5SEw4AX6_HoS6BayJbjew57H0BsGfLPugj-Io1KBYyZ1eiuVu_6140GeJhvqRJMUEJ5b7N-1EcLmeaXRA/s1600/IMG_3199.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4CLrQ8WyhGTPDgv2gKYjdEql8ZX_XLj4ooO4Ro7pxBIMHNsJl0PyJHBEX5SEw4AX6_HoS6BayJbjew57H0BsGfLPugj-Io1KBYyZ1eiuVu_6140GeJhvqRJMUEJ5b7N-1EcLmeaXRA/s320/IMG_3199.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685088310868011330" /></a>Elfkins stole the star on the top of our tree. I'm guessing he was jealous of the position, so he took it over. Silly Elfkins!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHPqbh-o1xMirHlDlU1tLw9uSf2tZ01IN48EsxKok3ZqaukdhnawukmDw8UQFbWbEiW8xhec2yoVqP4FfZhSyazx7q_c0DtAtISJ74eg9ztmpHhoK45lPwVVnpI_E9XkBzenYmgvfKQ/s1600/IMG_3204.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHPqbh-o1xMirHlDlU1tLw9uSf2tZ01IN48EsxKok3ZqaukdhnawukmDw8UQFbWbEiW8xhec2yoVqP4FfZhSyazx7q_c0DtAtISJ74eg9ztmpHhoK45lPwVVnpI_E9XkBzenYmgvfKQ/s320/IMG_3204.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685088305415652530" /></a><div>All the little boys in my house have colds. Looks like Elfkins might be coming down with one too. And we all know lots of rest is exactly what you need when you're sick. Silly Elfkins!<br /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7JYTcDlKcqxexwZ2NPerHYJdovuQp8XYZUDdcYvj4EUJFfRlTafFSB4nWx-bcE_lHVlhGVdMYb-f51d8sKAqOa8SsyA8AqVZSmSjL50by2fRaDlWXnANS7ar_s6vp9dV67h808qOgA/s1600/IMG_3189.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7JYTcDlKcqxexwZ2NPerHYJdovuQp8XYZUDdcYvj4EUJFfRlTafFSB4nWx-bcE_lHVlhGVdMYb-f51d8sKAqOa8SsyA8AqVZSmSjL50by2fRaDlWXnANS7ar_s6vp9dV67h808qOgA/s320/IMG_3189.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685083304852666866" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins took s a bubble bath in our sink. And washed his back with a new toothbrush for Toddler Moose. Silly Elfkins.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzwd_ZHbbw_EanwNqrEFhNzT7DSzCbl9Bg1IImQ-6vkV3HlCfcKHr2VW4gX5jX_JeY4PLrIeFTcerTOp5ZSCbN_SyaMepktUgl-j7-ztKRZzuhfHxfA23aJBFuTJFEcd9Qn6CILgVRqA/s1600/IMG_3184.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzwd_ZHbbw_EanwNqrEFhNzT7DSzCbl9Bg1IImQ-6vkV3HlCfcKHr2VW4gX5jX_JeY4PLrIeFTcerTOp5ZSCbN_SyaMepktUgl-j7-ztKRZzuhfHxfA23aJBFuTJFEcd9Qn6CILgVRqA/s320/IMG_3184.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685083300474100034" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins found our orphaned sock stash and decided to play in it. He also wore a new pair of Christmas socks (Dollar Spot at Target), and brought a new pair for me and Toddler Moose, as well. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzc39W74omcFTzytFKt8Bo8fvLbs3izWf49U8bmtatn-bnGMQoOtgLoJ-C594YgtDjZX_hiaDQ9_4ihhGmp7xLIGzAAoiT7XVa9yO7GWnyzAF7g0EXptfLm9hyphenhyphentOnyTqUnRXJFrLzJw/s1600/IMG_3181.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzc39W74omcFTzytFKt8Bo8fvLbs3izWf49U8bmtatn-bnGMQoOtgLoJ-C594YgtDjZX_hiaDQ9_4ihhGmp7xLIGzAAoiT7XVa9yO7GWnyzAF7g0EXptfLm9hyphenhyphentOnyTqUnRXJFrLzJw/s320/IMG_3181.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685082400870086530" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins must love hot chocolate as much as I do. He snuck into the stash and decided to have a cup. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoRm0UDPwQm8bEbQVYXlbiH-DUTyX_cYBOtkBuEiOMS7YfW7TDSZuWBk7fsE15wfUi7wdoeTQn4OLYERSrF2sGUGKIGtL3TBXAk3MzRdqSnimdh-FGoJHyDWJmlwPILs42X7_HghAjOg/s1600/IMG_3180.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoRm0UDPwQm8bEbQVYXlbiH-DUTyX_cYBOtkBuEiOMS7YfW7TDSZuWBk7fsE15wfUi7wdoeTQn4OLYERSrF2sGUGKIGtL3TBXAk3MzRdqSnimdh-FGoJHyDWJmlwPILs42X7_HghAjOg/s320/IMG_3180.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685082390085369346" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">We've been in a bit of a cold spell in Mooseville, so I imagine Elfkins jumped into the fridge to warm up. His pipe cleaner and pom pom ear muffs and felt scarf are sure to speed up the process. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4MJsRa8Nn6nocwL2FdrObTXAq_5lJXM5-u0hb8jTs60sH7ZAl662MYwWN88zT9_mANbmp0aXSB3hkO66u_1U-nzEZoBmZ8H12ga63ARomjH08d9qgY_ZKHwaC6nJCUGNbapp0RvYeg/s1600/IMG_3178.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4MJsRa8Nn6nocwL2FdrObTXAq_5lJXM5-u0hb8jTs60sH7ZAl662MYwWN88zT9_mANbmp0aXSB3hkO66u_1U-nzEZoBmZ8H12ga63ARomjH08d9qgY_ZKHwaC6nJCUGNbapp0RvYeg/s320/IMG_3178.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685082391830575250" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Elfkins started his career in our main living areas. His first foray outside of the norm was into the playroom. Here he was found spying over all the toys from a wall hanging. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZgAqQJBBaJMh-_7A1AaO3JQF3fp1WF5PIiBtDwu50y6_7LiEDKxOE3EJxa4bJsaQuC3hRSmDtF2h6tKgGUM4p7GaJPPPQc91z6ZAbkmDksPDGSNvm1oIF62UHFdMSm2kw0MpQVQLFA/s1600/IMG_3173.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZgAqQJBBaJMh-_7A1AaO3JQF3fp1WF5PIiBtDwu50y6_7LiEDKxOE3EJxa4bJsaQuC3hRSmDtF2h6tKgGUM4p7GaJPPPQc91z6ZAbkmDksPDGSNvm1oIF62UHFdMSm2kw0MpQVQLFA/s320/IMG_3173.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685082383636524562" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Looks like Elfkins got into the pantry and the playroom again. The goldfish from the pantry and the fishing pole from the fishing game. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYjZZft_9ioiTqJwjk0EivtTL-QC6E3taYGniuUYNuVs3ue2CsO6jbKYWccPu-DBhtsC9oTnD2w_C5LhFR-AVOQHpKbXvj3JDvbt8Ua9XkD4E7XgE-4x5pG07C_1AJXFcjpP3rcMSZXA/s1600/IMG_3118.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYjZZft_9ioiTqJwjk0EivtTL-QC6E3taYGniuUYNuVs3ue2CsO6jbKYWccPu-DBhtsC9oTnD2w_C5LhFR-AVOQHpKbXvj3JDvbt8Ua9XkD4E7XgE-4x5pG07C_1AJXFcjpP3rcMSZXA/s320/IMG_3118.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685082380288611874" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">One night I wrapped all the presents to go under our tree. But I'm lazy, and didn't bother with bows or ribbons. Elfkins was just trying to help me out. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Nx9k-gxmNcqMGNTL3lqqR6nYM_z_I7xVBRGxj6F0-O-HTp1PQmbu6icop5kgv4zl7SefyhoLkskzjNkId4CejkPCIPb3VIUEI7L39WbZ9-TrLYONcGYtePn4rGg4lZiZGVXaq5NxDA/s1600/IMG_3097.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Nx9k-gxmNcqMGNTL3lqqR6nYM_z_I7xVBRGxj6F0-O-HTp1PQmbu6icop5kgv4zl7SefyhoLkskzjNkId4CejkPCIPb3VIUEI7L39WbZ9-TrLYONcGYtePn4rGg4lZiZGVXaq5NxDA/s320/IMG_3097.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685081423940918706" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">High atop our cabinets Elfkins got high centered while flying around in the barn from our Uno Moo game. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizSeojUJFX3Tdw_X7nvpdXr_PtqPzkZvyp5lOiTG4eAMd-JcNnEbxZXmscGXk-iI3A-3HNfh7knCIsoij67esigJgXyiVD0BjTjnCTP_YlXsG8lDJSY-QSEs0Fy28y7H4r4khlD3pNMA/s1600/IMG_3085.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizSeojUJFX3Tdw_X7nvpdXr_PtqPzkZvyp5lOiTG4eAMd-JcNnEbxZXmscGXk-iI3A-3HNfh7knCIsoij67esigJgXyiVD0BjTjnCTP_YlXsG8lDJSY-QSEs0Fy28y7H4r4khlD3pNMA/s320/IMG_3085.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685081420138418834" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Toddler Moose had been behaving so well - even being kind to his little brother - so Daddy moose and I wanted to treat him to a movie. Elfkins must have overheard our plans because the morning o the movie we found him sipping on soda from a movie theater cup, eating popcorn, and hanging out with a gift card to the movies. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiICS8qK2Rro7kPCBBY0ZTGUs15LvOui0zrG8570-1Khyphenhyphen6g9bJu1qkrjYz0_4JcgsLchPRPVkQkY7I5O5n_U1iMQ8n1rIIkzSElAmTm57zG7tTt_6cY0RIUK0xlbw2-K4_318IoBQb5uw/s1600/IMG_3082.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiICS8qK2Rro7kPCBBY0ZTGUs15LvOui0zrG8570-1Khyphenhyphen6g9bJu1qkrjYz0_4JcgsLchPRPVkQkY7I5O5n_U1iMQ8n1rIIkzSElAmTm57zG7tTt_6cY0RIUK0xlbw2-K4_318IoBQb5uw/s320/IMG_3082.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685081411702807346" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Every year we get an ornament for our kids. The ornament always symbolizes something that happened during the year. 2011 marked many things, among them the first plane ride for both. Elfkins made the job easy on us and found airplane ornaments for the boys. Silly (and thoughtful!) Elfkins.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga9WuHZCeNXRY2TcsKDxCf2obAKDYrt8UE43ab3I0krtADAbbbkp87u5TO1HJc3Y-8b7DJSM2k3IYTK4Y7CQ7WCzukCmpN-M9nyJMRqKQAW6lqouu1DBP05DCpjpn87WCtXo17w9DnQg/s1600/IMG_3078.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga9WuHZCeNXRY2TcsKDxCf2obAKDYrt8UE43ab3I0krtADAbbbkp87u5TO1HJc3Y-8b7DJSM2k3IYTK4Y7CQ7WCzukCmpN-M9nyJMRqKQAW6lqouu1DBP05DCpjpn87WCtXo17w9DnQg/s320/IMG_3078.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685081408491183282" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">On Elfkins' second night with us, he spent a long time decorating the dining room with garland and snowflakes. He must have needed to rest after all that hard work. Silly Elfkins!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigXKnO7TARG058eFLKe1xxm534te6wZhd0EPm5q_-xXhvZ9Zr4HcQ7eoI2aRxgwULEjphf8ThGkUHs122AoZ59uv70gxVvmx9jtTJc_4NVluPytWwEH7FZ2tFMC7LDICOza96ye-WzsQ/s1600/IMG_3076.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigXKnO7TARG058eFLKe1xxm534te6wZhd0EPm5q_-xXhvZ9Zr4HcQ7eoI2aRxgwULEjphf8ThGkUHs122AoZ59uv70gxVvmx9jtTJc_4NVluPytWwEH7FZ2tFMC7LDICOza96ye-WzsQ/s320/IMG_3076.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685081403867830674" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">On his very first night with us, Elfkins made it quite easy on Toddler Moose. He hid in a stocking while munching on a candy cane from our tree. Silly Elfkins!</div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Moose Tracks:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Many of the ideas are inspired by pins I saw on Pinterest. Many are original, at least to me. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I'll post again with all the fun Elfkins gets into in a few days. weeks.</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-2412801952069978592011-12-11T19:09:00.003-08:002011-12-11T19:23:17.945-08:00Pineapple Cookies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6EL6huOUPs541xJyrseHVjtO2DBG5wYJgu5SqP-IVu7io03EkR3_IIbo0CuH8M5aezzY0kNX-UmgiJ574Kh16ad6ruHxnOyGBNYVZqqWfFx05_Pprc445FYlnbtXwokmy7jYIHcZ16g/s1600/IMG_3202.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6EL6huOUPs541xJyrseHVjtO2DBG5wYJgu5SqP-IVu7io03EkR3_IIbo0CuH8M5aezzY0kNX-UmgiJ574Kh16ad6ruHxnOyGBNYVZqqWfFx05_Pprc445FYlnbtXwokmy7jYIHcZ16g/s320/IMG_3202.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685074653728713410" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">It's not Christmas time without a batch of Pineapple Cookies somewhere in my life. Since moving out of my parent's house I've been responsible for creating these every year. My mother still does, as well. But my father typically eats them all before I ever see them.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pineapple Cookies</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ingrendients:</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 C Sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 C butter, softened</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 eggs</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 C crushed pineapple, undrained </div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp baking soda</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Tbsp cool water</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 1/2 C flour</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 C chopped nuts</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 tsp salt</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven to 350.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cream butter and sugar. While the mixer is doing it's thing, measure out pineapple in juice. Add soda and water. </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbTC3kSxel4v_bo3T0hFM5_ILNF4iBV4xF2Xd3adXMs5KVh2wg_MSW7ifZ2SKnAKz2wkBCPKEPczRHVkWc8Ou-phiJaddJMdPe1s3srt0NrzlTOfXJANSHOAgPkd_Waih9JzbdqycDQ/s1600/IMG_3192.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbTC3kSxel4v_bo3T0hFM5_ILNF4iBV4xF2Xd3adXMs5KVh2wg_MSW7ifZ2SKnAKz2wkBCPKEPczRHVkWc8Ou-phiJaddJMdPe1s3srt0NrzlTOfXJANSHOAgPkd_Waih9JzbdqycDQ/s320/IMG_3192.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685074646995996482" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">To the creamed butter/sugar mixture, beat in eggs, one at a time. Blend in pineapple mixture. Fold in flour, salt and nuts.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiuSZkU2HyTqoAIQJ5Mkp4XtfNhkUyqs0BzTKe5NLQ-NuFZZt65gN06L89UaxOHBbIIy-K5DtgqxfR3tnkM88OQ3ATmS_YVv5G0bXXkLli9M4lAIHLKxZM4GDTE0GHgt4FLXf-i1ekg/s1600/IMG_3193.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiuSZkU2HyTqoAIQJ5Mkp4XtfNhkUyqs0BzTKe5NLQ-NuFZZt65gN06L89UaxOHBbIIy-K5DtgqxfR3tnkM88OQ3ATmS_YVv5G0bXXkLli9M4lAIHLKxZM4GDTE0GHgt4FLXf-i1ekg/s320/IMG_3193.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685074645350294050" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Drop by large tablespoons onto cookie sheet. Bake 15 minutes at 350.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbOZ-N2-l4XGCI-jDTBOMFJ9ovticgIbsgqJg0Oigwoj-6TwhcftfdCgAgEw54gt9I7qMlOBeJ41SxeDsiNWrvufTT41KX6POmyQPhj1-coICKrduoUehCjMzYxSSF7hP_I115TTZcYQ/s1600/IMG_3197.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbOZ-N2-l4XGCI-jDTBOMFJ9ovticgIbsgqJg0Oigwoj-6TwhcftfdCgAgEw54gt9I7qMlOBeJ41SxeDsiNWrvufTT41KX6POmyQPhj1-coICKrduoUehCjMzYxSSF7hP_I115TTZcYQ/s320/IMG_3197.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685074636799653682" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Let cookies cool. Enjoy as is, or drizzle with frosting (recipe below.)</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Frosting recipe:</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 Tbsp crushed pineapple with juice</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 Tbsp white corn syrup</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 Tbsp sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">~2 C powdered sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Boil pineapple, corn syrup and sugar. Sift in powdered sugar until thickened to desirable consistency. Drizzle over coolies. Allow to cool.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSQTzHOwKeIanwRRpQnpiBFBGtI5KV-jcoOLvQPTZrlNFvgGCgJtQi8izgrBW2zVVIFfp6GSNc6Qm4y8UeUfrf9kN5CjPq0sjo1YjfxhXS9RSuZhd1X0vekRoK89zmJEcIfb8icYljA/s1600/IMG_3202.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSQTzHOwKeIanwRRpQnpiBFBGtI5KV-jcoOLvQPTZrlNFvgGCgJtQi8izgrBW2zVVIFfp6GSNc6Qm4y8UeUfrf9kN5CjPq0sjo1YjfxhXS9RSuZhd1X0vekRoK89zmJEcIfb8icYljA/s320/IMG_3202.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685074629872375458" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Moose Tracks:</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">These cookies are quite bread-like in consistency. </div><div style="text-align: center;">To store, stack between sheets of wax paper. These bad boys will stick to each other like crazy.</div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-16241654124579734902011-12-11T18:52:00.003-08:002011-12-11T19:35:47.446-08:00Bacon... Fudge?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicq6o__8H5OGd1HcCHWR5QmPx9sEScIRNLSuAJD-5UnvTZVYOgrb6X2pc0Webmev7LsR8Agu_fbD1e4anhFvm6DvKuvgFAjKZv-LeqxixqgzVR91C3k8ojqCPtwo_EKnZ3RqThtIMYjQ/s1600/2011-12-07_11-47-02_190.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicq6o__8H5OGd1HcCHWR5QmPx9sEScIRNLSuAJD-5UnvTZVYOgrb6X2pc0Webmev7LsR8Agu_fbD1e4anhFvm6DvKuvgFAjKZv-LeqxixqgzVR91C3k8ojqCPtwo_EKnZ3RqThtIMYjQ/s320/2011-12-07_11-47-02_190.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685070327498200530" /></a>You heard me. Bacon Fudge. Bacon Maple Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge, to be exact. The original recipe was found via NPR.<div><br /></div><div>Ingredients:</div><div>1/4 C butter</div><div>1 14oz can Sweetened Condensed Milk</div><div>1/2 C Peanut Butter Chips</div><div>1 1/2 C Chocolate Chips</div><div>1/2 tsp maple extract</div><div>1 lb maple-flavored bacon</div><div><br /></div><div>Step 1: Cook bacon until crisp. Crumble.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXZGD2QJeW2hwZhqLhsrBb13WF3pMefwZ1HN7zmXZtv_IHzpcT159-ULuA9HRxMOtIL7cCeIAwsPWqgTqRJaIshcxAxQ0psWn0vFv2gkXVdrgMY76ZRCj3A7XpHptAOsweCWNmJslysw/s1600/2011-12-06_18-58-07_647.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXZGD2QJeW2hwZhqLhsrBb13WF3pMefwZ1HN7zmXZtv_IHzpcT159-ULuA9HRxMOtIL7cCeIAwsPWqgTqRJaIshcxAxQ0psWn0vFv2gkXVdrgMY76ZRCj3A7XpHptAOsweCWNmJslysw/s320/2011-12-06_18-58-07_647.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685070321725190162" /></a>Step 2: Combine all ingredients, except bacon, in a large saucepan.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBf3_9IKb8jJxP-og3cti5tHC61lN0PUN1nV2-LOBniKMmpH73YAbrD1JUH4PFuta50cFgg9i4YZ3XDa6Q3Jc9OUB0amsY64WkwYu9sbqvBUxjsmfQNTW1x4Oo8mUGg34niAd9_EP7A/s1600/2011-12-06_19-00-08_337.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQBf3_9IKb8jJxP-og3cti5tHC61lN0PUN1nV2-LOBniKMmpH73YAbrD1JUH4PFuta50cFgg9i4YZ3XDa6Q3Jc9OUB0amsY64WkwYu9sbqvBUxjsmfQNTW1x4Oo8mUGg34niAd9_EP7A/s320/2011-12-06_19-00-08_337.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685070316055753602" /></a>Step 3: Stir mixture over medium heat until chips and butter are melted and smooth.</div><div><br /></div><div>Step 4: Remove from heat. Stir in bacon, reserving about a 1/2 C of bacon pieces for topping.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFiUMQaN20WBjTwkanW7lyJlWTeHilPNXyKOI__E2A5WF5M6YV_7YQ-rLz2o5HAolG4XUU3Li5e1THu1kbCOw-TmrMVMlUfYYD6oYgrTfyV8Ou_NKHtu0pWEiUL91Q66N7gCliqAqX7g/s1600/2011-12-06_19-02-36_691.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFiUMQaN20WBjTwkanW7lyJlWTeHilPNXyKOI__E2A5WF5M6YV_7YQ-rLz2o5HAolG4XUU3Li5e1THu1kbCOw-TmrMVMlUfYYD6oYgrTfyV8Ou_NKHtu0pWEiUL91Q66N7gCliqAqX7g/s320/2011-12-06_19-02-36_691.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685070313939221506" /></a>Step 5: Pour mixture into foil-lined and greased square pan. Sprinkle remaining bits over the top, pressing in lightly.</div><div><br /></div><div>Step 6: Cover. Let set in fridge at least four hours, preferably overnight.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-uMHeXm_w_q8cIOhda_EBV7H4Vv5MsTUOJm1O7eBk9cJRtJd0BNMFi0ACSz4H2Pz_bBo74iPAI7-f-T9MkUmHTghlko6iofotIRyFgJXeCHbBLzXSnyxfkO5gDTfB7vGfquxXwKgAw/s1600/2011-12-07_11-47-02_190.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-uMHeXm_w_q8cIOhda_EBV7H4Vv5MsTUOJm1O7eBk9cJRtJd0BNMFi0ACSz4H2Pz_bBo74iPAI7-f-T9MkUmHTghlko6iofotIRyFgJXeCHbBLzXSnyxfkO5gDTfB7vGfquxXwKgAw/s320/2011-12-07_11-47-02_190.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685070309869314050" /></a>Step 7: Cut into squares (about 7x7, or 49 total.) Served best at room temperature.</div><div><br /></div><div>Moose Tracks:</div><div>I'm lazy. I also don't like too much maple in my life. So I did precooked/precrumbled bacon bits - regular flavor. One bag of that did this recipe justice.</div><div>This recipe is crazy simple. There's no need to boil anything, no need to worry about temperatures or candy thermometers. </div><div>I've adapted this recipe in other ways. By changing up the extract or leaving out the bacon, you can create so many different fudge types. </div><div>Earlier today I made peanut butter fudge, chocolate fudge, mint chocolate fudge, and raspberry chocolate fudge - all using this recipe as the base. It's kind of perfect.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><br /></div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695531146821119949.post-79510785470629008642011-11-14T19:59:00.004-08:002011-11-14T20:17:47.857-08:00Cinnomn Roll Ring<div style="text-align: center;">I saw quite a few people pinning<a href="http://stamps4fun.blogspot.com/2011/10/traditions.html"> this</a> a few weeks ago. It looked lovely. I pinned it myself, but only because I liked it for the inspiration aspect. I haven't tried the recipe as it's written on the source blog. It might be great or horrible. I wouldn't know. I just knew I couldn't go wrong with the version below.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDOfGZUfLYVVRh8ooo9dcRPjq1SFyEs4d711Dt6X1g9MiEe6_aG6sm-EF_zEfAKeMA4GESCmlzIFtqL7K8Qg6bagprEaBNM1lfQXP53hHYn6egBrukMB4VG_vywNjw9wegi6HNNsuzA/s1600/IMG_2938.JPG" style="text-align: left; " onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDOfGZUfLYVVRh8ooo9dcRPjq1SFyEs4d711Dt6X1g9MiEe6_aG6sm-EF_zEfAKeMA4GESCmlzIFtqL7K8Qg6bagprEaBNM1lfQXP53hHYn6egBrukMB4VG_vywNjw9wegi6HNNsuzA/s320/IMG_2938.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675067957387563714" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sticky Bun Wreath</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 can refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (like Pillsbury)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 C brown sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 C sugar</div><div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Tbsp light corn syrup</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven to 375 degrees</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In small saucepan, heat sugar, corn syrup and butter over medium heat until sugar dissolves.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Pour sugar mixture into a greased bundt pan.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5RNMrP6nkv9Ta_DqW4yYY5_jpDkfndlbygPQFU3xGuSSw6gc8HxnAU8JPlI1l5C44j-9oEhEvy0xRBLsllAWNh8g5_w-AcjVRrTfDf0dCc7PD7vMxmLX6_9MlEJnUNQVuV65J6xzsZw/s320/IMG_2935.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675067981876532530" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Place cinnamon rolls around pan, overlapping slightly (Pillsbury Grands tend to have 5 biscuits. Non-Grands have 8. That seemed to work. I probably could have gone with 1.5 cans)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytgyv62FD5stiw5u-OMBaCY7tLF6q8PF1JzBpWBJVpAMlM9rxaVgSQMpLW-Uzc2mR8PKra4VuF0k_GTkEvoqp9CK_RDcqJ99OgdB9b_BFK8S1PH3l-lzC2hm5QMArKuC8ZLOc2gNXSQ/s1600/IMG_2936.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytgyv62FD5stiw5u-OMBaCY7tLF6q8PF1JzBpWBJVpAMlM9rxaVgSQMpLW-Uzc2mR8PKra4VuF0k_GTkEvoqp9CK_RDcqJ99OgdB9b_BFK8S1PH3l-lzC2hm5QMArKuC8ZLOc2gNXSQ/s320/IMG_2936.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675067977082120690" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Bake at 375 for twenty minutes, or until rolls are puffed, dry-looking and browned slightly.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Let set for 1-2 minutes.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTLFhKqcQiTIWF2sSLVRA-9XPjSaRO_BIvpJNSxMEZItOqn09t6HD1PRaMTNtu0pU9oa6HJ2-iZcTPi0SOIkkqWrHfXaJV5yB0hS0TsjK8aTVShdc8qbpq_8GAbuZZh2t7VV7WC5T8_g/s1600/IMG_2937.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTLFhKqcQiTIWF2sSLVRA-9XPjSaRO_BIvpJNSxMEZItOqn09t6HD1PRaMTNtu0pU9oa6HJ2-iZcTPi0SOIkkqWrHfXaJV5yB0hS0TsjK8aTVShdc8qbpq_8GAbuZZh2t7VV7WC5T8_g/s320/IMG_2937.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675067964318630130" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Place large plate over pan. Invert (use pot holders or oven gloves!). Let pan sit on plate for a bit, allowing syrup to drip onto rolls<div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy!</div></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDOfGZUfLYVVRh8ooo9dcRPjq1SFyEs4d711Dt6X1g9MiEe6_aG6sm-EF_zEfAKeMA4GESCmlzIFtqL7K8Qg6bagprEaBNM1lfQXP53hHYn6egBrukMB4VG_vywNjw9wegi6HNNsuzA/s1600/IMG_2938.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDOfGZUfLYVVRh8ooo9dcRPjq1SFyEs4d711Dt6X1g9MiEe6_aG6sm-EF_zEfAKeMA4GESCmlzIFtqL7K8Qg6bagprEaBNM1lfQXP53hHYn6egBrukMB4VG_vywNjw9wegi6HNNsuzA/s320/IMG_2938.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675067957387563714" /></a></div></div>Moosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08695789574737055677noreply@blogger.com0