Instant Magnet Board

Do you have some old baking sheets that you don't use anymore?

...

Here's an idea for you.

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...

....

.....

Cover an old baking sheet with Fabric.

Hot glue some ribbon on the back for it to hang on.

And viola.... an instant magnet board.

 

 

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Chicken Breading:

• 3-5 chicken breast
• salt and pepper
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/3 cup canola oil

1. Rinse chicken, trim off fat or extras and then cut into 1 inch cubes.

2. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Dip chicken into cornstarch and coat all the way and then into eggs.

4. Heat oil in large skillet. Cook chicken until browned.

5. Place in baking dish. 3 chicken breasts can be in a 9x9 but 5 chicken breasts fits better in a 9x13.

 

Sauce:

• 3/4 cups sugar
• 4 Tablespoons ketchup 
• 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

1. Whisk until smooth. Then pour evenly over chicken.

2. Turn chicken so the sauce gets on both sides 

3. Put in the oven at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Then turn chicken and then cook for 15 more minutes.

Removing Stains from Plastic Containers

1. Fill almost to the top with water and a squirt of dish soap
2. Add 1/4 cup of bleach
3. Microwave the container for 40 seconds, or until the solution is boiling
4. Allow to rest until the water is luke-warm
5. Wash out your container and it is as good as new!

PS: Any qualms about using bleach on plastic food containers? Then don't do this. Simple as that.

Homemade Caramel

Ingredients:

• candy thermometer
• wax or parchment paper
• 1 can sweet condensed milk
• 2 C sugar
• 1 cup butter
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cup white Karo Syrup

Directions:

1. Cook and stir constantly. (CONSTANTLY) cook in heavy pan until it reaches 240 degrees.
2. Take off stove and add...
3. for licorice caramel: 3/4 t anise oil and 3/4 t black food coloring
4. for cinnamon caramel: 1t cinnamon oil 3/4 t red food coloring (make sure it is no taste)
5. pour into a 9x13 buttered pan. cool completely before cutting.

TIPS:

Make sure you stir caramels with either a wooden spoon or a spatula that can stand high temps. like papered chef.

Try not to splash on the sides because when you are stirring don't scrape the sides back in there, scrape  only the bottom of the pan. If you bring the sugar crystals from the sides of the pan back into your candy it will sugar it and be all crunchy instead of smooth when it is all done.

Put your candy thermometer into the candy after it has boiled for a bit and started to change colors don't drag it around because scraping the metal to metal together can also sugar your candy. ALSO once you put the thermometer in you have to keep it in until it is done, don't take it out and put it back in unless you clean it.

Keep the heat on a med heat and if you start seeing little brown specks in your candy take it off the heat mediately and turn it down. that is the candy scorching.

Chicken Fettucinni Alfredo

Ingredients:

• 16 oz fettucinni noodles
• 1 jar Alfredo Sauce
• 1-2 Chicken Breasts
• Seasoning for chicken (whatever you'd like, I used Monteral Chicken seasoning)

Directions:

1. Boil a pot of water for the noodles and cook as directed.
2. Cut the chicken in cubes, or whatever you prefer and then season. Then cooked in a sauce pan with olive oil, til no longer pink.
3. Heat up the jar of alfredo sauce on the stove in a pot.
4. Then serve.

Storing Tomato Paste

Most recipes don't call for a whole can of tomato paste. I found a great way to store tomato paste, so it doesn't go to waste.

Put some parchament paper onto a cookie sheet and scoop out a tablespoon full of paste and put it on the parchament paper. Then stick it in the freezer and let it freeze up solid. Once solid place in a ziplock bag and put back into the freezer. Then pull out what you need when you need it.

Great idea isn't it? I thought so!

D.I.Y. Emergency Heater

Haven't tried this yet, but looks good. You can find the orginially explanation at The Parsimonious Princess


To make your emergency heater, you'll need:

• A new, quart-sized paint can with a lid. These can be purchased at paint stores and home improvement stores like Home Depot for around $2-3.
• A roll of unscented toilet paper (I say, the cheaper the better. I bought a package of the rough, store brand stuff for around a dollar. It wasn't hard to fit into the can -- others at the class had a difficult time because they were using their nice, multiple-ply stuff.)
• A bottle of unscented, 70% isopropyl alcohol
• A box of matches (I just learned that you can waterproof matches by dipping the heads in wax. Pretty cool.)
• A quarter and some tape (I suggest packaging tape)

Making the heater couldn't be easier. Simply remove the cardboard tube from the center of the toilet paper (that's the hardest part) - don't unroll the toilet paper; just bend the cardboard tube, and pull out. Stuff the tube-free roll of toilet paper into the can. Fill with 2 cups of isopropyl alcohol, leaving 1/2 inch headspace (you want it to have room to expand and contract with temperature fluctuations). This may take a little time since you have to wait for the toilet paper to absorb the alcohol. The toilet paper and alcohol should be below the rim of the can. Seal tightly with lid. Tape the box of matches and the quarter to the side of the can. That's it. If you prefer, you can store all the components of the heater in a plastic bag and assemble the heater when you need it. Personally, I like having it ready to go.

When you want to use the heater, pop open the lid, using the quarter as leverage. Place the lit match or lighter carefully against the alcohol-soaked toilet paper. A small flame will develop. The flame only uses the alcohol as fuel -- the toilet paper shouldn't burn. If it does start to burn, that means you need more alcohol. To do this, replace the lid to extinguish the flame. Once out, add some more alcohol and light again. Once you've used this heater, the only thing that ever needs replacing is the alcohol since the TP doesn't burn. Assembling the heater is a one-time thing, really.

Important: if you're going to use this heater in a car, crack open the windows for ventilation. Even though the alcohol doesn't produce carbon monoxide, you still want fresh air in such an enclosed space.

The teacher of the class said that she burned her heater (to test it out) in her kitchen and it lasted for five hours. According to one site I checked, you can keep a car heated at 60-70 degrees for 24 hours with 4 pints of alcohol. These heaters can get hot, so be careful how you handle them and be sure to keep them away from anything that could catch (obviously). Another site I read suggested sliding the passenger seat in the car as far back as it can go and placing the heater on the floor.

You can also use this heater in your home in the event of an emergency. Since the area isn't as small as that of a car, the instructor of the class said that you should be fine without cracking the windows (if you're in a small room, it couldn't hurt to crack it a little). This small heater, of course, won't keep an entire room at 60-70 degrees, but it will keep the chill off enough. These heaters are great for 72-hour kits.

For under five bucks, you can create a heat source for you and your family in the event of an emergency -- and five dollars is a small price to pay for a little extra peace of mind.

Creamy Potato Soup

Ingredients:

10 small-medium potatoes, peeled and chopped

3 carrots, peeled and chopped

1 onion, chopped

butter

milk

1 can cream of chicken soup

salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Place potatoes, carrots and onion in a large pot. Cover with water. Add a tablespoon or two of butter to keep it from boiling over. Bring to a boil and cook until the veggies are tender, about 20-30 minutes.
2. Drain. Smash the veggies with the back of a spoon until some of the potatoes smoosh. You don’t want it to all be mashed, but this makes the soup a bit thicker.
3. Stir cream of chicken soup with 2 cups of milk. Add to the veggies in the pot. Fill the pot with milk, until the veggies are covered. Add salt and pepper to taste. Heat thoroughly over medium-low heat. 

Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

Week 11: Hearts Full of Love Without Judgment

• President Dieter F. Uchtdorf gave wise council in April 2012 when we said this regarding pacing judgment on others. “This topic of judging others could actually be taught in a two-word sermon. When it comes to hating, gossiping, ignoring, ridiculing, holding grudges, or wanting to cause harm, please apply the following: Stop it! It’s that simple. We simply have to stop judging others and replace judgmental thoughts and feelings with a heart full of love for God and His children.”
•  http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/04/the-merciful-obtain-mercy?lang=eng&query=forgiveness
• This week look at others without judgment. Look at other with unclouded glasses. Smile warmly at all you see and be conscious to look for the good in all you see.



Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

 

Week 10: Smiling Has Many Benefits - Smiling Boosts Your Immune System

 

• Smiling helps the immune system to work better. When you smile, immune function improves possibly because you are more relaxed. Prevent the flu and colds by smiling.

White Chicken Chili

-Sister Carol Armstrong

Jennifer Wilson’s White Chicken Chili

Ingredients:

• 3-4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 chopped onion
• 2 big cans of Cream of Chicken soup
• 1 big can diced green chiles
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp dried cilantro
• ½ tsp chili powder or ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• 5 cans pinto beans drained and rinsed
• 2 cups water (approx.)

Directions:

1. Boil chicken in water (can cut in smaller pieces.) Shred.
2. Add all ingredients to a large crockpot. Stir occasionally to keep beans from sticking.
3. Top with shredded cheese and chopped green onions, if desired

Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

 

Week 9: Smiling Has Many Benefits - Smiling Makes You Seem Successful

• Smiling people appear more confident, are more likely to be promoted, and more likely to be approached.
• This week put on a smile when you present yourself to others even if it is only to your husband and children or even the dog.
• Observe how people react differently to you.

Super Simple Air Freshener

Baking soda naturally absorbs odours, so why not take advantage of that to create simple, inexpensive air fresheners?

Here's how:

Use a hammer and and a nail to poke holes in the lid of a small canning jar.

Fill the jar about 1/4 full with baking soda
Add 6-8 drops of lavender essential oil

Put lid on and place in any spot that could use some freshening. Every once in a while, give the jar a gentle shake to boost it's air freshening power.

I've made several, and I use them in my linen closet, under my kitchen sink (which is where the stinky garbage can is) and in the bathroom.

This powder is also useful for removing odours from carpets and upholstery. And it's already in a handy shaker! Just sprinkle on your sofa or a spot on your carpet that needs to be deodorized, let sit for a little while, and then vacuum it up.

You could, of course, substitute your favorite essential oil for the lavender. And you crafty ladies could certainly pretty up the jar a little bit too!

NOTE: As with any cleaning product (even the reasonably safe and friendly ones), keep out of reach of children and pets.

Crockpot Lemon Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts
• 1 packet Italian dressing mix
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chicken stock
• egg noodles or rice

Directions:

1. Place chicken breasts, Italian dressing mix, butter, lemon juice & chicken broth in the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
3. When finished cooking, shred chicken with 2 forks.
4.  Serve chicken over egg noodles or rice and top with juices from crockpot.
5. This doesn't leave a lot of extra sauce, so if you like a lot of sauce double the amount of chicken stock.

Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

 

Week 8: Smiling Has Many Benefits - Smiling Relieves Stress & Lowers Your Blood Pressure

• Stress can really show up in our faces. Smiling helps to prevent us from looking tired, worn down, and overwhelmed.
• Also when you smile, there is a measurable reduction in your blood pressure. When you are stressed, take time to put on a smile.
• The stress should be reduced and you'll be better able to take proper action.
• When stress arises this week put on a smile whether it be as a mother dealing with the task of teaching values to children or as an employee met with deadlines.
• Observe how you are better able to handle the situation when you wear a smile.

Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

 

Week 7: Knowing True HOPE

 

• The word hope is sometimes misunderstood. In our everyday language, the word often has a hint of uncertainty. For exampel we my say that we hope for a change in the weather or a visit from a friend. In the language of the gospel, however, the word hope is sure, unwavering, and active. Prophets speak of having a "firm hope" (Alma 34:41) and a "lively hope" (1 Peter 1:3).

• The prophet Moroni taught, "Whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which ope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God" (Ether 12:4).

• This week express hope to others around you by carrying a smile as you live the gospel.

• Radiate a hopeful promise of God's love.

• Smile as you interact with your family, read the scriptures, attend church meetings and visit with your visiting teaching sisters.

Wooden Spoon Tip

Here is a very helpful and truthful tip with a wooden spoon. I tried this and it really works. Does your boiling pot of pasta, potatoes, etc sometime boil over? Well, I learned that if you place your wooden spoon over the top of the pot, it stops it from boiling over. I tried and it works great. Don't believe me, go give this a try.

Sunday Pork Chops

Ingredients:

• Package of Boneless Pork Chops
• 2 cans of Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream
• 1/4 cup Milk
• salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Brown Pork Chops and season with salt and pepper. Then place into Crockpot.
2. Mix Soup, Sour Cream, and Milk together.
3. Pour mix over Pork Chops in crockpot.
4. Cook on high 3-4 hours.

Crockpot Chicken Taco Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 onion chopped
• 1 can black beans
• 1 can kidney beans
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 10 oz pkg corn
• 2 cans diced tomatoes with chilies
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 3-4 chicken breast
• chili peppers (optional)
• 1/4 cup cilantro

Directions:

1. Combine beans, onion, chili peppers, corn, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, and taco seasoning in crock pot
2. Place chicken on top and cover.
3. Cook on low for 10 hours or high for 6 hours
4. Half hour before it is done, take chicken out and shred.
5. Place back in crock pot and mix in.
6. Top with cilantro and serve on top of rice with cheese, sour cream, etc.

Dryer Sheet Use

I learned that you can use a dryer to sheet to clean off your baseboards. I tried this and it works great and is so easily done. You don't get dust every where, it all stays on the dryer sheet.

 

Another plus to this tip is that your baseboards stay whiter longer and cleaner long. GREAT!!! Less work for me to do while cleaning the house.

 

Hope this tip helps you out and you enjoy just as much as I do.

Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

 

Week 6: Smiling has Many Benefits - Smiling is Contagious

 

• One of the greatest acts of Service you can give is a smile.
 
• The prophet of the restoration, Joseph Smith Jr., often wore a smile as he went about his day. When someone is smiling they lighten up the room, change the moods of others, and make things happier.
 
•  A smiling person brings happiness with them.
 
• This week see how many other people you can get to smile as you go about your routine.



Operation Smile

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

 

Week 5: The Beattitutes

• Study Matthew 5:3-12 and 3 Nephi 12.
 
• The prophets have stated that serving others is "A More Excellent Way" and when we serve with happy hearts it is as though the Savior were rendering the service himself.
 
• List ways in which you serve others on a daily basis.
 
• Looking at your list see if there is a single act of service that you could do while making a conscious effort to carry a smile throughout the entire task.

Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

 

Week 4: Smiling has many Benefits - Smiling Changes Our Mood

• 2 Nephi 2:11 tells us "there must be opposition in all things."

• Next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile.

• Set a goal to smile during the most difficult parts of your day for a whole week.

• There's a good chance your mood will change for the better. Smiling can help the body by helping you change your attitude towards the challenges you are facing.



Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

 

Week 3: The Plan of Happiness

• The Topical Guide States, "Heavenly Father desires that we find true, lasting happiness. Our happiness is the design of all the blessings He gives us -- gospel teachings, commandments, priesthood ordinances, family relationships, prophets, temples, the beauties of creation, and even the opportunity to experience adversity. His plan for our salvations is often caleed "the great plan of happiness" (Alma 42:8).
 
• He sent His Beloved Son to carry out the Atonement so we can be happy in this life and receive a fullness of joy in the eternities.
 
• Bear or record your testimony of the Plan of Happiness.
 
• As you go thorughout your week try ot smile at everything that reminds you of our Heavenly Father's Plan of Happiness. 

Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

Week 2: Smiling has many benefits - Smiling is Like a Light that Draws Others Toward Us

• We are drawn to people who smile. We want to get to know a smiling person and figure out what it is that makes them smile. Frowns, scowls, and grimaces all push people away -- but a smile draws them in.

• Observe the smiles around you this week

• Look at yourself in the mirror each morning and smile...tell yourself how wonderful a smile looks on your face

Operation SMILE

{ Our Relief Society Service Challenge }

 

Sisters we invite you to find the joy in a simple smile over the next few months

 

A smile costs nothing, but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it, without making poorer those who give

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes last forever.

None is so rich or so mighty that he can get along without it and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it.

A smile creates happiness at home, fosters good will in business, and it is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it can't be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is of no value until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.

 

 

Week 1: Men are that they Might Have JOY

• Read 2 Nephi 2:25.

• List 10 things that bring the greatest joy to you and place them where you can see them each day.

• Try to recall these things throughout the week and allow a sincere smile to your face each time you think of the items on your list. 

Homemade Vicks Shower Disks

Frugal by Choice, Cheap by Necessity gives a recipe to make homemade vicks shower disks. I think this is amazing, especially since flu season is coming up. What a great way to start the morning off feeling fresh and a little less stuffy. :) Enjoy.

Ingredients:

• Baking soda
• Water
• Essential oils: eucalyptus, rosemary, and lavender.
• Muffin tin
• Muffin liners

Directions:

 

1. Add baking soda to a mixing bowl. Updated to add - I don't really measure. Maybe 2-3 cups?
2. Slowly add water until you've made a thick paste. Updated to add: add just a little water a time. You'll want the mix to feel like putty.
3. Add 15 drops of each essential oil.
4. Spoon in to a muffin tin, and let sit out for 12-18 hours. You can also bake these, but I just left them out overnight.
5. Pop these suckers out of the paper liner, plop it in your shower, and let the essential oils steam away your stuffy nose. Edited to add: put them anywhere on the floor of the shower; it doesn't matter where! 

 

 

Canning Apple Filling

Can use this recipe for pies, apple crisp, cobblers, etc.
Mommy's Kitchen

Ingredients:

• 4 1/2 - cups sugar
• 1 - cup cornstarch
• 2 - teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 - teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 - teaspoon salt
• 3 - tablespoons lemon juice
• 10 - cups of water
• 6 pounds of tart apples, washed, peeled and thinly sliced

Note: Slice apples into a solution of 3 tablespoons of lemon juice to 1 quart of water to avoid discoloration. Drain the fruit well before packing in jars.

Directions:

 

1. In a large pot, blend together sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Stir in the water and lemon juice with a wire whisk. Cook and stir until bubbly and thick; remove from heat.
2. While the filling was cooking I sliced the apples and added them into a solution of 3 tablespoons of lemon juice to 1 quart of water to avoid discoloration. Drain the fruit well before packing in jars.
3. Pack apples into clean, hot canning jars leaving an inch from the top of the jar.
4.  Fill with the hot syrup, leaving 1/2 inch space from the top of the jar. Remove air bubbles by running a knife around the insides of each jar.
5.  Close the jars with sterile lids and rims.
6. Process in a boiling water bath for 20 -30 minutes Use a jar tongs to remove the jars from water Place the jars on a dish towel to dry and allow the jars to cool for several hours.
7. Check the seals to make certain the lids are sealed properly (the lids should be lowered in the middle and not move up or down)

Amazing Grout Cleaning

Amazing Grout Cleaner

  I used to be on this everlasting quest to find a good grout cleaner. As you'll see in some of the pics, I had given up on that quest long ago and decided to let the grout just become a constant dark brown instead of the light tan it was originally. I had tried every product and concoction out there. In fact I had tried everything I could think of, short of paying a professional.
So one day I saw a pic on Pinterest of a floor with half clean grout and half really dirty grout. I wasn't sure it would work on my grout because it's not sealed but I gave it a try.

Here's the formula:

7 cups warm water
1/2 cup baking soda
1/3 cup ammonia
1/4 cup vinegar

Now this much liquid didn't even close to fit into my tiny little spray bottle and it probably won't fit in yours either, so here is the recipe halved and quartered

 

Halved
3 1/2 cups water 1/4 cup baking soda
2 Tbsp + 2 tsp ammonia
2 Tbsp vinegar

Quartered
1 3/4 cup water
2 Tbsp baking soda
1 Tbsp + 1 tsp ammonia
1 Tbsp vinegar

I used the quartered version for the pics below. I also wrote the formula on a piece of paper and taped it to the bottle. Make sure never to mix bleach with ammonia, you will die or something...

 

Friday, June 15, 2012

Amazing Grout Cleaner

I used to be on this everlasting quest to find a good grout cleaner. As you'll see in some of the pics, I had given up on that quest long ago and decided to let the grout just become a constant dark brown instead of the light tan it was originally. I had tried every product and concoction out there. In fact I had tried everything I could think of, short of paying a professional.
So one day I saw a pic on Pinterest of a floor with half clean grout and half really dirty grout. I wasn't sure it would work on my grout because it's not sealed but I gave it a try.

Here's the formula:

7 cups warm water
1/2 cup baking soda
1/3 cup ammonia
1/4 cup vinegar

Now this much liquid didn't even close to fit into my tiny little spray bottle and it probably won't fit in yours either, so here is the recipe halved and quartered.

Halved
3 1/2 cups water 1/4 cup baking soda
2 Tbsp + 2 tsp ammonia
2 Tbsp vinegar

Quartered
1 3/4 cup water
2 Tbsp baking soda
1 Tbsp + 1 tsp ammonia
1 Tbsp vinegar

I used the quartered version for the pics below. I also wrote the formula on a piece of paper and taped it to the bottle. Make sure never to mix bleach with ammonia, you will die or something...

Here is the method:

First mix the ingredients and give the bottle a good shake.
Spray the grout (I started with 2 tiles at a time) and let the spray sit and absorb a little into the grout. Be generous.
Grab a grout brush, scrub brush, or tile brush with a handle and scrub the grout vigorously where the spray has been sitting. Don't get it in your eyes, trust me.
Use a clean damp rag to wipe each line of grout right after you scrub it to pick up all that dirty liquid, might be handy to keep a bowl or bucket of warm water nearby because you'll want to continuously clean the rag.
Depending on the color of your tile, you may want to mop the whole thing when you're done because the baking soda may or may not leave some white residue. Personally, I mopped and towel dried the floor.

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies with Chocolate Chips

By: Hillary Congdon via Watch What I eat

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed until smooth & creamy
• 1/3 cup peanut butter ~ creamy or chunky
• 2/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder ** (can be made without, cookie will just be lower in protein)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp butter flavor extract ** (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups quick oatmeal ~ uncooked (or use old fashioned oats for more oatmeal texture)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (peanut, walnut, or your favorite)
• 1/4 cup carob or chocolate chips (**optional)

Directions:

Preheat heat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, mix mashed banana & peanut butter until completely combined then add in the applesauce, vanilla protein powder & the extract(s) ~ mix again until all are completely combined.

Add in the oatmeal & nuts to the banana mixture & combine. (** add the optional carob / chocolate chips at this time if you want them mixed throughout)

Let dough rest for 10 minutes.

Drop cookie dough, by spoonfuls, onto a parchment paper lined cookie sheet & flatten cookies into rounds. (** if you just want the carob / chocolate chips on the top of the cookies, add now)
Let dough rest for 10 minutes.

Drop cookie dough, by spoonfuls, onto a parchment paper lined cookie sheet & flatten cookies into rounds. (** if you just want the carob / chocolate chips on the top of the cookies, add now)
** I didn't add the protein powder, butter extract, or chopped nuts.**

D.I.Y. Oxiclean

Tight on money? Don't have time to run to the store? Don't have an extra car to get to the store? Etc. Try this homemade remedy for oxiclean. Check out A "Real" Housewife and Mommy to learn how to make it.

OXICLEAN:

1 part baking soda

1 part hydrogen peroxide
2 parts water

Mix it all in a container to spot treat or just add straight to laundry if presoaking. (I've tried it on a couple things and it works AMAZING!) You just have to shake it before you use each time.

Bacon-Wrapped Apple BBQ Chicken

By: Hillary Congdon

Ingredients:

• 3-4 Chicken Breasts, thawed
• 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce
• 1-2 Apples peeled and grated
• 1 Lemon, juiced
• 6-8 Slices of Bacon

Directions:

1. Peel and grate apples.

2. Combine BBQ Sauce, grated apples, and lemon juice.

3. Wrap 2 pieces of bacon around each piece of chicken.

4. Grease Crockpot.

5. Place Chicken in Crockpot.

6. Pour BBQ mix over chicken and bacon.

7. Set to low and cook for 8 hours.

8. Serve with Rice, veggies, and/or salad.

Cleaning Bath Toys

Some of us have young children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, etc that love to take baths and play with toys. Do you want to know how you can keep those toys clean and disinfected?

Visit this website We Love Being Moms. If you can't get to it here is how you do it.

Vinegar Cleaning

Vinegar is a wonderful natural disinfectant and is safer than bleach and so I gave this a try first. I mixed 1/2 cup of white vinegar with a gallon of water and let the toys soak for an hour. I scrubbed the toys down with a sponge and squeezed the water out of each toy and let them dry. This released some of the mold but not all of it so I repeated it again with the same results.

Bleach Cleaning

I also soaked the toys in 3/4 cup of bleach with one gallon of water. I let the toys soak for an hour, scrubbed them down and squeezed the water out and let them dry. This seemed to release more mold than the vinegar. I rinsed the insides of the toys multiple times to rinse the bleach off.

After spending a couple hours cleaning these bath toys I put a little bit of glue on the holes of each toy to prevent water from getting in them and me from having to clean them again. This has been wonderful!!! It has now been 3 months and the glue has successfully stayed on all but one bath toy. This is seriously the best thing you can do...I would do it as soon as you get a new toy and then you won't even have to worry about cleaning the toys!

Breakfast Pockets

Ingredients:

Dough

• 1 1/2 tblsp yeast
• 1/2 c warm water (110 degrees)
• 3/4 c evaporated milk (110 degrees)
• 1/2 c vegetable oil
• 1/4 c sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 1/2 c flour

Filling

• 1 lb bulk sausage
• 1/2 c onion, chopped
• 1 1/2 c frozen hashbrown potatoes, thawed
• 7 large eggs
• 3 tblsp milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic salt
• pinch of cayenne pepper
• 2 c cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions:

Dough 

1. In a bowl, dissolve yeast in the water.
2. Add milk, oil, sugar, egg, salt, and 2 cups flour; beat until smooth.
3. Add enough flour until it makes a soft dough but do not knead. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

Filling

    4.  Cook the sausage and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain. Add the hashbrowns,

         eggs, milk, and spices. Cook and stir until set. Sprinkle with cheese and keep warm.

Assembling the Pockets

     5.  Preheat oven to 350°.

     6.  Punch down the dough and cut into 16 equal pieces.

     7.  Roll each piece into 7 in circle on a floured surface. Top with 1/3 c filling, fold, and pinch shut.

          Bake for 15-20 minutes.

To Freeze

     8.  Allow to cool on the baking sheet. Once cooled, place in the freezer until frozen. Store in a

          ziploc bag in the freezer for 3-6 months. To reheat, place on a paper towel and microwave for 1

          1/2-2 minutes.

DIY: Cleaning Fruit & Veggies

Summertime means fresh fruits and vegetables. I love to eat fresh fruits and vegetables all the time. I found this amazing link that explains how to clean fruits and vegetables. I'm never sure if using just water always got rid of the bugs and bacteria, etc on the fruit. Then I found this D.I.Y. Solution and gave it a try. It really works and I couldn't believe how clean and shiny my fruits have been. It even helps them last a little longer.

Give it a try!!!

Here's How-To:

Make sure your sink is very clean.

Fill a sink halfway with lukewarm water.

Add 1 cup of white vinegar.

Mix.

Add your fruit. Don't over fill your sink with fruit.

Soak for about 10 minutes.

Rinse well.

The Result: Clean. Fruit.

Peach Chicken

By: Hillary Congdon via Taste of Home

Ingredients:

1 can (15 ounces) sliced peaches in extra-light syrup

2 teaspoons cornstarch

1/4 cup peach preserves

1 tablespoon chicken broth

1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs

1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (6 ounces each)

2 tablespoons butter, divided

2 green onions, chopped

Hot cooked pasta (I use brown rice instead)

Directions:

1. Drain peaches, reserving juice. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and reserved juice until smooth. Add preserves and broth; set aside.

2. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the bread crumbs, cheese, salt and pepper. Add chicken, one piece at a time, and shake to coat. In a large skillet, cook chicken in 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat for 4-6 minutes on each side or until chicken juices run clear. Remove and keep warm.

3. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Stir cornstarch mixture and add to pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add chicken and peaches; heat through. Sprinkle with onions; serve with pasta or rice. Yield: 4 servings.

Cleaning Kitchen Appliances

Do you have kitchen appliances that  you have had for a while now? Have they started to get all oily and sticky and gross? If so then this is the place for you to go. I found this on pinterest and absolutely love it and have found it works great. The blog is called A Real-Life Housewife.

To clean and shine stainless steel, all you need to do is mix 1 tablespoon Cream of Tarter with a couple drops of water. Then rub the mixture onto appliance with a sponge and wipe clean with paper towel.

Give this a try and watch the magic work!

Strawberry Spinach Salad

By: All Recipes

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon minced onion
• 10 ounces fresh spinach - rinsed, dried and torn into bite-size pieces
• 1 quart strawberries - cleaned, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup almonds, blanched and slivered

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, sugar, olive oil, vinegar, paprika, Worcestershire sauce and onion. Cover, and chill for one hour.

2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries and almonds. Pour dressing over salad, and toss. Refrigerate 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Bug Bite Itch Solution

Some of you may know this already, but I figured with it being summer and bugs are out I'll share this little tip my parents taught me growing up.

TOOTHPASTE

If you apply a small amount of toothpaste over the bite and let it dry, you'll no longer have a desire ti scratch that itch. I remember getting a bug bite and running into the bathroom and putting dobs of toothpaste all over my arms and legs. The itch was gone and i no longer had a desire to scratch it and possibly risk the chance of getting and/or leaving a scar.

So give this a try this summer and tell me what you think!!

Teriyaki Chicken

By: Hillary Congdon via Becky Burton

Ingredients:

• 2-3 chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp ginger
• sliced almonds (optional)
• rice

Directions:

1. Brown chicken in oil and transfer into slow cooker.

2. Mix the remaining ingredients togther well.

3. Pour over chicken, cover and cook on high for 1 hour.

4. Reduce heat to low and cook 4-5 hours or until meat is tender.

5. Shred chicken.

6. Sprinkle with almonds if you want and serve with rice.

*I normally double the mixture so I have more flavor and leftover juices to put over my rice*

Organic Homemade Lotion

By: Erin Talley via Wellness Mama

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of oil of choice (almond and coconut are good choices- coconut will make more of a body butter texture)
• 1 tablespoon of beeswax
• 1/3 cup distilled water, or brewed herbal infusion of choice (To make: boil distilled water, add herbs you are using and let sit until mostly cool)
• 1 tsp Vitamin E oil (important-to preserve)
• Essential oils of choice (optional)

Directions:

1. In a double boiler (use an old bowl over a small saucepan that has water in it) put the oil and beeswax and stir over medium heat until the beeswax has just melted.
2. Remove from heat, add the vitamin E oil and essential oils and stir to combine.
3. Make sure water or herbal infusion is slightly warm but not hot (important step or the lotion won’t emulsify)
4. Put the water/herbal infusion in a blender or food processor and turn on high.
5. VERY SLOWLY add the oil mixture, starting with a drop at a time.
6. Continually drizzle the oil mixture into the blender until all poured in.
7. Check consistency and blend more if needed.
8. Store in a glass jar (or pump bottle if you use almond oil and have a thin enough consistency). Lasts up to two-months out of the fridge or up to 6 months in the fridge.

Buttermilk-Blueberry Breakfast Cake

By: Anika Adams

Serves 6-8

Ingredients:

•  ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 tsp. lemon zest or more — zest from 1 large lemon
• 7/8 cup* + 1 tablespoon sugar**
• 1 egg, room temperature
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 2 cups flour
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• ½ cup buttermilk

 * 7/8 cup = 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons

** This 1 tablespoon is for sprinkling on top

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Cream butter with lemon zest and 7/8 cup of the sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Add the egg and vanilla and beat until combined. Meanwhile, toss the blueberries with ¼ cup of flour, then whisk together the remaining flour, baking powder and salt.

3. Add the flour mixture to the batter a little at a time, alternating with the buttermilk. Fold in the blueberries.

4. Grease a 9-inch square baking pan (or something similar) with butter or coat with non-stick spray. Spread batter into pan. Sprinkle batter with remaining tablespoon of sugar. Bake for 35 minutes. Check with a toothpick for doneness. If necessary, return pan to oven for a couple of more minutes. (Note: Baking for as long as 10 minutes more might be necessary.) Let cool at least 15 minutes before serving.

Cleaning with Vinegar

The are many uses for cleaning with vinegar. But today, I am only go to share one of these uses. Yesterday, I was cleaning our kitchen and needed to give our microwave a nice good scrub. However, water wasn't just doing the trick, and I didn't want to use a chemical product that may get into my food when I cooked it in the microwave.

I don't remember where the website is that I saw this helpful tip, but if you put vinegar in a microwave safe bowl/dish and microwave for 30-45 seconds, then remove the dish. You should be able to wipe down the microwave with no problem at all. It was the most amazing thing I saw. Plus, not only does it get the microwave clean, it leaves a nice smell (if you like the smell of vinegar).

There you have it, our weekly tip. Give it a try and tell me what you think.

Cherry Delight

Ingredients:

• ½ White Cake Mix
• 1 8 oz Cool Whip
• 1 8 oz Cream Cheese
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 can Cherry Pie Filling

Directions:

1. Prepare and bake cake mix as directed on package, using 9 x 13 pan. (Remember it won't take as long to bake!) Let cool to room temperature. 

2. Mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar together and gently blend in cool whip until smooth.  Spread on cooled cake.  Top with can of cherry pie filling and refrigerate until firm.

Remove Stains & Brighten Clothes

Source: Paging Supermom

1. Put the the first load into the washer with two scoops of Oxi Clean and a small amount of laundry detergent. Let the agitator run for about 5 minutes and then let the load soak overnight.

2. In the morning pour white vinegar into the fabric softener compartment on your machine. Vinegar is helpful during the rinse/spin cycle to break down excess detergent that might “stick” and create residue on the clothes. If your washer doesn’t have a fabric softener compartment you can get a fabric softener ball to throw into your wash — it automatically dispenses at the right time. If you have sensitive skin or feel like you should set your washer for a second rinse cycle to make sure everything rinsed out nice and clean.

3. Once the washer was done, transfer the clothes to the dryer but as you do so check each piece to make sure the yellow spots were gone. The soak and wash worked really well but there were a few pieces that still had spots. Keep those items out of the dryer (for fear of setting the stains), and apply spot stain removers and then rewashed. Also let these items hang out on the clothes line as the sun is supposed to help fade the spots.

Now go give it a try. It worked for me. You don't have to use hot water--cold/warm works well too.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

-By: Hillary Congdon via onceuponachef.com

Ingredients:

2 pounds chicken tenders

3-4 cups vegetable oil, for cooking

For the Marinade

1 cup buttermilk

1-1/2 teaspoons salt

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Breading

1-1/2 cups all purpose flour

1 heaping teaspoon salt

3/4 teaspoon black pepper

3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

3/4 teaspoon paprika

1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

3 tablespoons buttermilk

Directions:

1. Combine the chicken tenders with all of the marinade ingredients in a large ziplock bag. Seal the bag tightly and smush it around to ensure chicken tenders are evenly coated with buttermilk and seasoning. Place in a bowl (in case of leakage) and refrigerate overnight, or at least 4 hours.

2. Make the breading by combining the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika and baking powder in a large bowl. Whisk until well combined, then add the buttermilk and stir with a fork until mixture is evenly clumpy.

3.Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade a few at a time and toss into the flour mixture. Be sure to press the chicken firmly into the breading so clumps adhere to the meat. (It's best to use one hand to remove the tenders from the bag and the other to toss in the breading.) Set breaded tenders on prepared baking sheet.

4.Line another baking sheet with a few layers of paper towels and set aside. Add oil to a large, high-sided pot until the level reaches about 3/4-inch. Heat over high heat until oil is shimmering. (If a cube of bread sizzles when you drop it in, it's ready.) Using tongs, place several chicken tenders in the hot oil without crowding the pan. Cook until golden brown on the bottom side, a few minutes, then flip and cook until second side is also golden, a few minutes more. Set cooked tenders on baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain. Fry remaining tenders in batches. Serve hot.

Homemade Cheese-its

By: Hillary Congdon

Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter, softened
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup shredded cheese, room temperature
1 cup wheat flour
1/4 tsp baking powder
1 tbsp cold water

Directions:

1. Beat butter and salt until creamy. Add cheese mix well. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and water until dough forms a ball. Help form ball with hands if need too.

2. Roll dough 1/8 in thick (between parchment paper) on a cookie sheet. 
*I just spread mine out on a greased cookie sheet with a spatula.

3. Cut in 1 1/2 in squares. Bake 15 minutes at 350 degrees or until brown. Turn oven off and let sit to get crispy. 

4. Store in a tightly covered container.

Cucumber Mint Soup

-By: Cimone Furler via South Beach Diet

Ingredients:

• 3 cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and roughly chopped
• 1 scallion, sliced
• 1 garlic clove, chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh mint leaves (I use a couple of the packages from the store because I love mint)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (8 ounce) container reduced-fat sour cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper

Directions:

1. Puree cucumbers, scallion, garlic, mint, and water in a blender or food processor until smooth.

2. Add sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; blend to combine.

3. If you are serving the soup immediately, chill quickly by transferring it to a metal mixing bowl, placing the bowl over a larger bowl filled with ice and cold water, and stirring occasionally until chilled, about 10 minutes. Otherwise, chill in refrigerator until cold, about 3 hours.

Steamed Cranberry Pudding

-By: Cimone Furler via Jane Walker at allrecipes.com

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 2 cups whole cranberries
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:

1. Dissolve the baking soda in the hot water. Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar and molasses, then mix in the cranberries and flour. Pour into a greased 6 cup steamer mold.

2.Cover the mold, and place into a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover the steaming pot. Cook over medium heat for one hour before checking, but it will take about 1 1/2 hours total. A toothpick inserted into the pudding should come out clean. Loosen the edges, and cool on a wire rack in the mold.

3.Make the hard sauce just before serving: Heat the unsalted butter, cream, 1 cup sugar and vanilla in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook stirring constantly until heated through and smooth.

Lime & Buttermilk Cupcakes

-By: Cimone Furler via  Coconutandlime.com
Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• ¾ cup butter, at room temperature
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• zest of one lime

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350. Line 12 wells in a cupcake tin with baking papers.

2.  In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, zest and sugar until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the juice. Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour.

4. Fill each baking cup two-thirds full. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle of a cupcake comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Ice with coconut lime icing.

Icing:

• 1 cup confections’ sugar
• ¾ cup sweetened, flaked coconut
• 3 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• zest of one lime

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine butter,zest and sugar throughly.

2. Add buttermilk and lime juice.

3. Mix on high 1 minute until well mixed

4. Spread over cooled cupcakes. Sprinkle each cake with coconut.

Italian Chicken & Rice

-By: Sister Brady

Ingredients:

• Boneless breast or chicken tenderloins (1 -1/2 Ibs.)    
• 2 cups chicken broth or a can of chicken stock
• 8 oz. Cream Cheese                                                   
• 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup
• 1 pkg. Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing                          
• 1 cup Jasmine rice
• 1 teaspoon olive oil

Directions:

1. Saute chicken in a pan with a little olive oil and fresh garlic until done. Remove chicken and add chicken broth and rice.

2. Cook rice as directed only use the chicken stock in place of the water recommended on package to boil rice, 

3. Meanwhile heat cream cheese, cream of chicken soup and Zesty Italian dressing packet until blended.
4. Combine chicken, rice and cream sauce together and serve with a steamed vegetable for a complete meal.

**5. This recipe also works great for a crock pot too. Just add all ingredients except the rice into a crock pot and cook. Add rice to crock pot 45-minutes before serving for a lovely Sunday dinner