tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29123546530431009982024-02-19T06:35:00.198-08:00My Little Idea BoxRanee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-2481926253649183632016-07-11T15:34:00.002-07:002016-07-11T15:34:28.543-07:00Clothing Review: The Cassie skirt by LuLaRoeSo I confessed to you guys after DOUBLE PLAY came out that I have two loves: clothes and books. This is well known about me. Once, at a party, while playing a version of the newlywed game, my husband was asked if I had $100 what would I spend it on. He thought on it for a moment and said he knew of two things and was just gonna guess one. He said clothes (which is what I'd written! Ha!), but he'd been thinking of books too, which is what I'd told the girls earlier I didn't know which he'd say.<br />
<br />
In short, it's time for some clothes reviews here. So why would I start with LuLaRoe? One, because I love and adore their stuff. It's comfy, like yoga pants-tee shirt-all-day-in-your-pajamas comfy, and yet can yet still be dressed up so that you're rocking life AND you feel like you just stayed in your yoga pants. (Do I have you hooked yet? If not...this might be the wrong blog for you. ;) )<br />
<br />
Second, my SIL has just become a consultant (and I have two good friends who sell as well). This said SIL made sure everyone within hearing distance of her knew about my books when they came out, but she didn't just do it because she loved me and wanted to support me, but because she liked my books too. And I'm returning the favor, but not just because I love her and want to support her, but because I love the product she's selling. So they'll be a few clothing reviews now and again mixed in with my book reviews. And, we may have to get my mom (Robyn) to post some too, since she's just getting into LLR, and it's always good to have a second persons take on the clothes.<br />
<br />
(Since this is a longish review, if you'd rather just hop on over to Ashleigh's Facebook Boutique, click on this link and explore the clothes yourself: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1085198178207852/)<br />
<br />
So. The Cassie.<br />
<br />
The Cassie is a pencil skirt. It's the first LLR product I purchased. I was invited to a party well over a year ago and went really just because it was a friend and I like to be social. I actually didn't plan on buying anything. I had heard about LLR, but wasn't really interested. I browsed the racks she had set up in the basement--the shirts looked boxy, I didn't need any maxi skirts, and I didn't actually dig any of the patterns. Then I came across a pink jersey pencil skirt with flowers embossed on it and I fell in love. I tried it on and that was the day I became addicted to LLR.<br />
<br />
The Pros of the Cassie? It's a pencil skirt that feels like yoga pants. I've never been one to just wear skirts, but I wear my Cassies all the flippin' time--just around the house even. I repeat: They are SO comfy. Here are three different looks with that first Cassie I bought:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8WaKFWcClTafIcZ5q_P4XtxKHnqfuaHbmsey_QTTszV1mTi8Tq3z8bQyG1kLCHLX3p4Uc_SXKPesaUVI0hKymz77h_jqJSe4poz0EgQkmwdtl_fDR0pIBu_VdnRB0eLei1GAZyKa6yY/s1600/IMG_1449.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8WaKFWcClTafIcZ5q_P4XtxKHnqfuaHbmsey_QTTszV1mTi8Tq3z8bQyG1kLCHLX3p4Uc_SXKPesaUVI0hKymz77h_jqJSe4poz0EgQkmwdtl_fDR0pIBu_VdnRB0eLei1GAZyKa6yY/s320/IMG_1449.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Left: All snazzed up. Comfy or whatever, tuck a nice blouse into this puppy and you're dressed to the nines and still feeling great. (Except for maybe if you add heels. ;) )</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Center: I love pairing it with a loose, flowy v-neck or tee shirt. It's great to slip on a pair of flip flops and chill at the beach. (Which yes, I have totally done. That comfy. Do you believe me yet.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Right: And just tuck that v-neck or t-shirt in and you have a great, something in between.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Here's another Cassie I have. It's a size smaller than this one (LLR is known for being able to rock many different sizes in a style for different types of looks. For instance, I could probably wear a size up for a looser pencil skirt look.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiHEQILrYDyd7pUohvYoAGwE5yNRt_q0_37faE0iCvPLyu6u33NJL4wVl_5TjG2GsXLI9OxBkFQyCbrXsJFJbH5sglT7KUMIqTJ-PiAV4S3ad6jFJWXhHjwwWF7axZe8JjAXIM8-Afc4/s1600/IMG_1448.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiHEQILrYDyd7pUohvYoAGwE5yNRt_q0_37faE0iCvPLyu6u33NJL4wVl_5TjG2GsXLI9OxBkFQyCbrXsJFJbH5sglT7KUMIqTJ-PiAV4S3ad6jFJWXhHjwwWF7axZe8JjAXIM8-Afc4/s320/IMG_1448.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
For this set of photos, I used the same two pieces to create some different styles. A black Irma (worn a size smaller than my usual buy for a closer fit) and a striped cassie--it's a little bit different material than the one above. It's a tee shirt jersey, same was the Irma I'm wearing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Left: Casual with the Irma tucked in. I've added heels to this exact outfit and looked pretty nice for church. Or slip on your flip flops or nicer sandals and you have a more casual look.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Center: The same Irma tucked in and the skirt pulled up to my high waist. (That's the skinniest part for me so it's a pretty flattering look on me. Experiment with where your best waist is for when you tuck in.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Right: The top of this Cassie is perfect for rolling like yoga pants, so I've done that for a slightly shorter skirt, then I tied the Irma up. Again, depending on your accessories, I think this is easily a casual or dressed up look.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
And my newest Cassie, which I'm SO in love with. It's an ADORABLE floral and chevron pattern. I've been looking for a nice floral pencil skirt for a while. I've seen lots of cute, cute, cute outfits on pinterest that have them. This one was spot on perfect for me and I knew it the second Ashleigh sent me a picture of it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67Zp0_2eAumJe_agRLkCI7UiavKtL3fjIFfkxusZ0LRBoN-dUmwQeJwnKdNZrL9J41qceu7_lL7EgykA-ISa2RvQTp2LpyHF0RCMhHIpfYLhze6JGhNlDHRrqsekZIHLvODPK60-LRv8/s1600/IMG_1450.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67Zp0_2eAumJe_agRLkCI7UiavKtL3fjIFfkxusZ0LRBoN-dUmwQeJwnKdNZrL9J41qceu7_lL7EgykA-ISa2RvQTp2LpyHF0RCMhHIpfYLhze6JGhNlDHRrqsekZIHLvODPK60-LRv8/s320/IMG_1450.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
In both these pics I'm pressed down, but I think you get the gist of dressing up this skirt, right??</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
So on the left is what I did when I got home fro church yesterday. I'd worn this skirt with a cardigan and a Downeast cap sleeve in mint. I threw on this comfy color run t-shirt and hung out the rest of the day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
On the right, if you saw my earlier LLR posts on Instagram, you might have heard that in the last package Ash sent me, I accidentally coordinated all the clothes! Ha. HOW CUTE is this Randy with my pencil skirt? Give me some flip flops and let's hang out for the day. I love it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
The Cons.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Um, literally with the Cassie I have no downsides. I just don't. (I do have some thing with some of the other clothes, so if you're one of those trolls who needs negativity, stay tuned. ;) )</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-38394235238008426922016-06-08T17:37:00.001-07:002016-06-08T17:37:42.754-07:00Crunchy Peanut Butter Protein BitesLast weekend, the husband and I took our kiddos on a fairly strenuous hike and outright failed to notice the time we were leaving and how it would egregiously overlap with lunchtime, and then some... I <i>had</i> brought along some of your basic granola bars as a snack, you know, as mother's do when they don't realize they should be feeding their child an actual meal. When we got back to the car and everyone was starving and we were still an hour away from civilization, the husband came through because he is a boy scout and that's what they do. (In fact, he's and Eagle Scout. High five, dude!) He had some Cliff bars in his backpack from his recent hunting trip, which he dolled out along with some jerky. Seriously, this guy is amazing. The Cliff bars were crunchy peanut butter of some kind, anyway, some flavor I'd never tasted, and maybe I was just starving or they were that delicious, but they were delicious.<br />
<br />
So, of course I decided I needed to figure out how to make them at home. There are definitely some DIY copycat recipes on Pinterest that are probably more authentic tasting than this one, but I wanted to do it with ingredients I mostly have on hand. That meant some experimenting. Here's what I came up with. And want to know why there's no picture? Because for some really strange reason, the vanilla protein powder I used made mine green...weird. They still taste great though, so there's that. ;)<br />
<br />
1/2 cup of peanuts, split.<br />
1/2 cup of rolled oats, split<br />
1/2 cup of vanilla protein powder (The brand I use is Rainbow Light, I think?)<br />
1/2 tsp of vanilla extract<br />
3 TB of honey<br />
<br />
In a food processor or blender (I use my BlendTec, which I ADORE), grind 1/4 c. of the peanuts--but do not let them turn into a paste, just flour-like. Do the same with 1/4 c. of the rolled oats.<br />
<br />
With the rest of the peanuts, use something chop them into small bits. Set aside the rest of the oats.<br />
<br />
In the food processor, combine the ground oats, peanuts, and the protein powder and mix until just combined. Add the honey and vanilla extract. Process until it forms a cohesive dough. You may need to add up to a tablespoon of water. You want the dough to come out a little sticky so you can add the remaining peanuts and oats.<br />
<br />
Once combined, scrape into a small bowl. Add the rest of the peanuts and oats and stir them in until combined. Scoop out the bites and roll into teaspoon-sized bites. (I used the small Pampered Chef scoop, if you have one.)<br />
<br />
Refrigerate.Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-45511966608500119052016-04-15T14:38:00.003-07:002016-04-15T14:38:32.172-07:00True Greatness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B28hGYVAqpnGa04tT1ZuZXBBREU/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrVMxOEGxDzHgyzBZFTZmS96p1esSHWZ8SbWd5KOEjmjF3kIYNNgxEtwmx1HOUtU2LYtYj-4ziTzcvhkZHfVAzNwt8xfN90i8NKIFvwr6a6ofudyOQQfDwshgZYBMFMtDGX4Fl6xrPcDcn/s640/true+greatness.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-10261563127673679102016-04-13T16:25:00.001-07:002016-04-13T16:25:38.388-07:00Inspiration: Old Homes In Casper, WYPhotos taken March 2016<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgMKHe8lNFmVHQQHwFlcx9QJ5FCl7CT5EIXBeKC5fQZ1GSsvVsAeumVo4dddY3_xco2irzsY4bsFW6wSE7K3ZL2F5JTkscC4-htJiMMG1OR22bqB6-cVqH7zSudZgrgvRhCtsiemD1PS8/s1600/IMG_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgMKHe8lNFmVHQQHwFlcx9QJ5FCl7CT5EIXBeKC5fQZ1GSsvVsAeumVo4dddY3_xco2irzsY4bsFW6wSE7K3ZL2F5JTkscC4-htJiMMG1OR22bqB6-cVqH7zSudZgrgvRhCtsiemD1PS8/s640/IMG_0094.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz_qvJYvngryxNemGcOSWTLARV0tEdEsQ0gPg3IOOgaTiLjpG3IcSCKEIc70OJfSPQ7V0MxHvkdikv9935CHwnBJJfxuz6jJ6A4DYs_-e2LrdyiW6SaUEGi0KUyQ1iWisgunDD_JBu_7OD/s1600/IMG_0289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz_qvJYvngryxNemGcOSWTLARV0tEdEsQ0gPg3IOOgaTiLjpG3IcSCKEIc70OJfSPQ7V0MxHvkdikv9935CHwnBJJfxuz6jJ6A4DYs_-e2LrdyiW6SaUEGi0KUyQ1iWisgunDD_JBu_7OD/s640/IMG_0289.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshOWUZFE-zhlMR-ix1TNIjZ53aD3reRr1-aeqUCx-1Wr9h2D2A6AQe5QVQS9Ou685LFej0dioz0xjEo1GfUuZOuURohexSrw8cOJ1aRN2wQB7gK4x4-iJ4i-_t5OEzbes8o-Td5wnFlLb/s1600/IMG_0928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshOWUZFE-zhlMR-ix1TNIjZ53aD3reRr1-aeqUCx-1Wr9h2D2A6AQe5QVQS9Ou685LFej0dioz0xjEo1GfUuZOuURohexSrw8cOJ1aRN2wQB7gK4x4-iJ4i-_t5OEzbes8o-Td5wnFlLb/s640/IMG_0928.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_C_mFRZcXzD-_3J_3Mwop5G664ZgrWWZi_ucIwVh2m9q3Hs_H2Yhyczhp8eZDiPevrRgzyCUCW6JdoE_hSK7GoPZXAcjGSxavpmmcp71TRi3Pv-pIJOVcrUYzFxl3LI36w-pt6vYgSlat/s1600/IMG_3169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_C_mFRZcXzD-_3J_3Mwop5G664ZgrWWZi_ucIwVh2m9q3Hs_H2Yhyczhp8eZDiPevrRgzyCUCW6JdoE_hSK7GoPZXAcjGSxavpmmcp71TRi3Pv-pIJOVcrUYzFxl3LI36w-pt6vYgSlat/s640/IMG_3169.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLiSXDdv1l93gnKUaSUBrDAnZPrbFqpseoIo2dtZlg9AbKEJldPfAQIZhW3wm254wcE0YFDT494Xie7QUIjQwq3_CGtXnFcEoz0SbsBooLZOyLxvAp9AHqC0sT9S4w-hjbmehP_lABboCU/s1600/IMG_4841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLiSXDdv1l93gnKUaSUBrDAnZPrbFqpseoIo2dtZlg9AbKEJldPfAQIZhW3wm254wcE0YFDT494Xie7QUIjQwq3_CGtXnFcEoz0SbsBooLZOyLxvAp9AHqC0sT9S4w-hjbmehP_lABboCU/s640/IMG_4841.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZnvY3u5eN83niZiTmH8UIJ9ir-ek-UOuKnkjA0-Hes1JjJ1oRaV8wNFFDchU1RBRIbtb7EW2SATYjz-iFgULqMIGwG0I5as-PSPm99FAHBFyjpbYIHQgLiUipffTf3OtcNY8tI3RXKj4/s1600/IMG_4981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZnvY3u5eN83niZiTmH8UIJ9ir-ek-UOuKnkjA0-Hes1JjJ1oRaV8wNFFDchU1RBRIbtb7EW2SATYjz-iFgULqMIGwG0I5as-PSPm99FAHBFyjpbYIHQgLiUipffTf3OtcNY8tI3RXKj4/s640/IMG_4981.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOOV2GEreOFXQw2S0xbWXqtEDG4GB4tCBRL6rn96LNraFnmEGypzLxggi6Qq0tW8a-qo2HKttfrz5pwlFSLf6PLfffVd7gZT2XN9uhrNLrjb47-pfr5T-pbEMnc5V0jqdj2wHNCISwoka/s1600/IMG_5868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOOV2GEreOFXQw2S0xbWXqtEDG4GB4tCBRL6rn96LNraFnmEGypzLxggi6Qq0tW8a-qo2HKttfrz5pwlFSLf6PLfffVd7gZT2XN9uhrNLrjb47-pfr5T-pbEMnc5V0jqdj2wHNCISwoka/s640/IMG_5868.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrl-6i8Sflb0Ms6ZB6SwCZA24cPfD8j9dydJNCZSjlNdpvKwxkX0fxUjEp_lk_lOldQWfc4b1Pzv0C2F2Vg6JCnqOyDMtqrYdCy4ZJVnG238RV6mxxuQ5Ww-yNbCoSTv_mfgjZ-OdVgSS/s1600/IMG_6318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrl-6i8Sflb0Ms6ZB6SwCZA24cPfD8j9dydJNCZSjlNdpvKwxkX0fxUjEp_lk_lOldQWfc4b1Pzv0C2F2Vg6JCnqOyDMtqrYdCy4ZJVnG238RV6mxxuQ5Ww-yNbCoSTv_mfgjZ-OdVgSS/s640/IMG_6318.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4g3HzI6QLVx1LiQ5Zyv17z2Z8yU1VKNmi3TQpScTqUmlyvgR0FF9XxNF11q7kAnu_0GC34VzQL_qEQN4CoYNmVCUYp5wkQIrhMibI8qBNjR7U0onmgsoaZt_0VeGutpvtz8PBMj4b-9TJ/s1600/IMG_8464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4g3HzI6QLVx1LiQ5Zyv17z2Z8yU1VKNmi3TQpScTqUmlyvgR0FF9XxNF11q7kAnu_0GC34VzQL_qEQN4CoYNmVCUYp5wkQIrhMibI8qBNjR7U0onmgsoaZt_0VeGutpvtz8PBMj4b-9TJ/s640/IMG_8464.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM0DPo_TnG8wVeWlHCX_Vdebp5pVnAoF9x9IP6BjbT-obNJ-wBYxVWGlKqeIwhK-AJugSEx43-wEeBHurki-uCyCAA9IsHxY6ehN8OkHGhfTQw9nBL9LcJ4AElymqaFbYPCYvYHHnaSfPp/s1600/IMG_8822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM0DPo_TnG8wVeWlHCX_Vdebp5pVnAoF9x9IP6BjbT-obNJ-wBYxVWGlKqeIwhK-AJugSEx43-wEeBHurki-uCyCAA9IsHxY6ehN8OkHGhfTQw9nBL9LcJ4AElymqaFbYPCYvYHHnaSfPp/s640/IMG_8822.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg56xrxbpjP-kB1r6I9nO88EWIxvA-th1akJTYlFUCRuWeGgyinIepf5ngMCvHCf-gjOImGtSVya5R7notiIQMomhlKBWslkwynwXBO3hUAM-QaL6W-k2KMgfuWzhqOkctkmkQoar4EigIr/s1600/IMG_9031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg56xrxbpjP-kB1r6I9nO88EWIxvA-th1akJTYlFUCRuWeGgyinIepf5ngMCvHCf-gjOImGtSVya5R7notiIQMomhlKBWslkwynwXBO3hUAM-QaL6W-k2KMgfuWzhqOkctkmkQoar4EigIr/s640/IMG_9031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugmQfksXg8tIg33tIrpGeKoKQ98oQzYN-zx9miGhtGSDt4MbvxELWdzFwcLySbBb7PQtoQl1DW04LKwYinbw2OF5qVYHX-b6IUrVVD5mZnPq8N0qHP3wp5fvS9hNjA-HELfteQp4GYcnc/s1600/IMG_9111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugmQfksXg8tIg33tIrpGeKoKQ98oQzYN-zx9miGhtGSDt4MbvxELWdzFwcLySbBb7PQtoQl1DW04LKwYinbw2OF5qVYHX-b6IUrVVD5mZnPq8N0qHP3wp5fvS9hNjA-HELfteQp4GYcnc/s640/IMG_9111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-87765284673227631052015-09-27T21:03:00.000-07:002016-04-13T16:29:22.266-07:00Quick Rolls<span style="font-family: inherit;">Not to brag, but some people like my rolls. They're quick, not *as* light and fluffy as the kind you let rise twice, etc, but a great quick version. Originally I got the recipe off of Facebook--and I can't find the original post now, sorry!--but I've adapted it a lot for my needs. First I'm going to show my Whole Wheat version. (Originally the recipe was a homemade hamburger bun recipe & it's so GREAT for that too. Just flatten out the rolls more and let rest 10 minutes before putting in the oven rather than letting rise.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Recipe makes one sheet size pan of rolls. (Sorry, I never count...)</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></span><br />
<h2>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Quick Rolls</span></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1/4 cup active dry yeast</span><br /><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">2 cups warm water (110° to 115°)</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">2/3 cup melted butter*</span></span><br />1/2 cup honey (or slightly less--play around until you get the right amount for you)<br />2 eggs<br />2 teaspoons salt<br />6 1/2 to 7 cups whole wheat flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add butter and honey; let stand for 5 minutes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Add the egg, salt and no more than 7 cups flour to form a soft dough. (It may be sticky. DON'T put in too </span>much<span style="font-family: inherit;"> flour. Rolls will end up </span>heavy<span style="font-family: inherit;"> and tough.) I use a KitchenAid mixer to kneed my dough for </span>between<span style="font-family: inherit;"> 3 1/2 to 5 minutes (usually right at four). I've found the KitchenAid </span>kneading<span style="font-family: inherit;"> to work best since the dough can remain sticky and you don't need to add in the extra flour. </span><br />
<br />
Using some extra flour, shape into balls. (I usually sprinkle some over the top of the dough as I'm shaping them, using as little as I can.)<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Cover and let </span>raise<span style="font-family: inherit;"> for 30 minutes. Bake at 400° for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To make an all-white flour version, </span>substitute all purpose white flour for the whole wheat. You can still use honey, or use 1/2 cup of white sugar.<br />
<br />
*The original recipe calls for vegetable oil, which I've been trying to cut out of my baking and use more butter. Melting the butter has turned out to be a big deal for the rolls turning you.<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); color: #666666; line-height: 18px;"></span><br style="color: #666666; line-height: 18px;" /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); color: #666666; line-height: 18px;"></span><br style="color: #666666; line-height: 18px;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); color: #666666; line-height: 18px;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18px;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); color: #666666; line-height: 18px;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18px;"></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); color: #666666; line-height: 18px;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"></span></span>Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-60519514615212780582015-04-14T15:17:00.002-07:002015-04-14T15:17:36.346-07:00Young Women Service Auction Printable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqk9X6ybUb1sYdABCv-e-biGL9NvyEly7A-y3Gsk3jaBBIHGYD2fvdC-8g83QoeQ3oArgh3t-Mqd98ugEHpugUkEflfkImdJceQRyq_pGCqGRV9hndrlptTb5TiYzzUB8Cmv-3WZIAd3d/s1600/YW+Service+Coupon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqk9X6ybUb1sYdABCv-e-biGL9NvyEly7A-y3Gsk3jaBBIHGYD2fvdC-8g83QoeQ3oArgh3t-Mqd98ugEHpugUkEflfkImdJceQRyq_pGCqGRV9hndrlptTb5TiYzzUB8Cmv-3WZIAd3d/s1600/YW+Service+Coupon.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B28hGYVAqpnGVVB5LWJqbWFaVTQ/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Download the TIFF file here</a> with layers in order to customize.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B28hGYVAqpnGVVB5LWJqbWFaVTQ/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Download JPG here</a></div>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-48842055614505481082013-08-04T14:40:00.000-07:002013-08-04T14:42:53.756-07:00Guidelines for Godly Parents Art* From Elder L. Tom Perry's October 2012 General Conference Talk, "<a href="http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/10/becoming-goodly-parents?lang=eng" target="_blank">Becoming Godly Parents</a>."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsdIvKl9Bg6wcaNVqb84duXqA-O2ExT8129Bf7U0Gn5LvwBCJhrp9Vk6USgpDvQ3hutMfMWCdj-RCUp-cdh43o_G5M7V6i00IpQ9YnxEa0Sw1Oisf52pzoxV1n0hqejLwTv2ls_vZQlel/s1600/Godly+Parents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsdIvKl9Bg6wcaNVqb84duXqA-O2ExT8129Bf7U0Gn5LvwBCJhrp9Vk6USgpDvQ3hutMfMWCdj-RCUp-cdh43o_G5M7V6i00IpQ9YnxEa0Sw1Oisf52pzoxV1n0hqejLwTv2ls_vZQlel/s640/Godly+Parents.jpg" width="468" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://www.clickinmoms.com/cmprodaily/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/pinit.jpg" /></a></div>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-59334660667362211972013-07-14T13:44:00.000-07:002013-07-14T13:45:19.683-07:00"Look, Little Currant Bush" Art<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gaISZkGQ5YOZIQuaHbCI-wgB7THIc5XcOUZQ6QbGONzsxYMgdNSpKT_XxF23jHCHzzZlT77wFzMSXBojrp-u1kLiUCkSiC6-jUUzeovo_qgKx3J_n7LNBRmnmZMt3tWdimzxsEIR8LMB/s1600/currant+bush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gaISZkGQ5YOZIQuaHbCI-wgB7THIc5XcOUZQ6QbGONzsxYMgdNSpKT_XxF23jHCHzzZlT77wFzMSXBojrp-u1kLiUCkSiC6-jUUzeovo_qgKx3J_n7LNBRmnmZMt3tWdimzxsEIR8LMB/s640/currant+bush.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(c) 2013 Ranee` S. Clark</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-68065495230749999132013-06-14T14:21:00.000-07:002013-06-14T14:30:50.076-07:00Lunches<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFArtwzWAyhMBi_QswY3PJnYm4QIe38rAtIvM1evKI5kh0fXkQHOByE1yNizPyu2Uj_aIMYfMOOkgfIA5g0z1LWHPqa_nWjxnIxuatSnCXf05PoJW-zOOs7-hzWa-7T_SOac7-6Wf0Gnf/s1600/ID-10080091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFArtwzWAyhMBi_QswY3PJnYm4QIe38rAtIvM1evKI5kh0fXkQHOByE1yNizPyu2Uj_aIMYfMOOkgfIA5g0z1LWHPqa_nWjxnIxuatSnCXf05PoJW-zOOs7-hzWa-7T_SOac7-6Wf0Gnf/s320/ID-10080091.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Image courtesy of Grant </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;">Cochrane/ </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">http://www.freedigitalphotos.net</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
It is summer, which means kiddos are home and if you are like me you are always wonder what you should make for lunch.<br />
<br />
And this fall my not-as-picky eater goes to Kindergarten, so I've started gathering up lunch ideas for him. (Yay! I can send something besides fruit strips and Kashi bars!)<br />
<br />
I love the Bento box ideas on Pinterest!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kidnappedbysuburbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/the-lazy-bentoer-nov-26-lunch-1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.kidnappedbysuburbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/the-lazy-bentoer-nov-26-lunch-1024x1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From <a href="http://www.kidnappedbysuburbia.com/index.php/2012/12/01/the-lazy-bentoer-the-week-of-the-same-lunch/">http://www.kidnappedbysuburbia.com/index.php/2012/12/01/the-lazy-bentoer-the-week-of-the-same-lunch/</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
(I've already ordered some *cheap* bento-style lunch containers, silicone baking cups ('cause they have a LOT of uses), and some fun cookie cutters...!)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here are the ideas I have so far:</div>
<div>
1 - Homemade snacks. I want to be good. Really. So I've already found recipes for animal crackers and Cheezits. (Check out my Pinterest boards)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2) Cheese cubes</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
3) Diced fruit (Little Man will eat almost anything that's a fruit. At the least, he'll try it once.)</div>
<div>
-Especially things I don't get all the time -- like blueberries.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
4) Easy to finger eat pastas (My kids love, love them. I buy the Barilla Plus -- they won't eat the spinach or other kinds, unfortunately...)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
5) Sandwiches of course</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
6) Homemade granola bars - I have a great recipe on my boards that I tweak however I want.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kidnappedbysuburbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/the-lazy-bentoer-oct-2-snack-1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.kidnappedbysuburbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/the-lazy-bentoer-oct-2-snack-1024x1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From <a href="http://www.kidnappedbysuburbia.com/index.php/2012/10/05/the-lazy-bentoer-week-7/">http://www.kidnappedbysuburbia.com/index.php/2012/10/05/the-lazy-bentoer-week-7/</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
7) JELL-O! My kids love Jell-o and I never thought of this idea!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
8) Crackers & Peanut Butter</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
9) Boiled eggs. (Little Man loves them)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
10) Hot Dogs<br />
<br />
11) Orange wedges</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
**So what do you pack in your kids lunches? What do you make for summer lunches for all the kids?**<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-21507146854805203642013-05-29T10:38:00.001-07:002014-01-28T22:25:49.821-08:00Body By Vi RecipiesI have found the greatest product ever! It's called Visalus (or "Body By Vi"). It is a weight management powder that taste like cake mix. It is DELISH, and you can use it in a TON of recipes. The only problem is that most the recipes I find are on Facebook (who thought of that idea? I'm sure it gets a lot of "shares" and "likes" so it keeps people's pages at the top of the list...but seriously, worst way EVER to keep track or recipes).<br>
<br>
Body By Vi is typically used in a shake (my favorite is chocolate/peanut butter...chocolate for breakfast? Yes, please). But someone who was thinking outside the box decided it can be used for solid food as well, which is great because I'm a "grazer" by nature. I am constantly wanting food in my mouth (a habit I am trying to break), so on to find some great "snacking" food without putting licorice, and chocolate bars and ice cream in my mouth all the time.<br>
<br>
<b>Pumpkin/Spice Muffins</b><br>
2 scoops protein powder<br>
1 spice cake mix<br>
1 small can of pumpkin<br>
2 Scoops <a href="http://karenegeland.bodybyvi.com/" target="_blank">Visalus Shake Mix</a><br>
<br>
Mix together. Bake in mini muffin pans at 350-degrees (Fahrenheit) for 15-20 minutes.<br>
<br>
<br>
<b>Microwave No Bake Cookies</b><br>
1/2 cup <a href="http://www.queenbeegardens.com/store/HoneynWax.aspx" target="_blank">Honey</a><br>
1 Cup Peanut Butter<br>
<br>
Heat in Microwave for 30 seconds.<br>
<br>
Add:<br>
1 TBSP Cocoa Powder<br>
1-1/2 cups Oats<br>
2 Scoops Visalus Shake mix powder<br>
<br>
<br>
<b>No Bake Energy Balls</b><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 c. ground flaxseed</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 c. coconut flakes</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/3 c. honey</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 c. Peanut Butter or PB2 (Can find it on Amazon, and maybe a health food store. I have never personally used this, but I know people who LOVE it).</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 c. Oatmeal</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">2 Scoops Visalus Shake Mix</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 tsp. vanilla</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 c. mini chocolate chips (optional)</span><br>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<br></div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 5px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Add Honey and Peanut Butter, mix together well until peanut butter is soft. Add in Oatmeal stirring until completely mixed Add Coconut flakes, Flaxseed, and Vanilla until completely mixed **NOTE: If using PB2, place in the fridge before making into balls for at least 20-30mins.*** Make into balls, enjoy!</span><br>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><b>Samoa Cookie Shake</b> (Yeah, you know those DELICIOUS girl scout cookies...now in a healthier shake)</span><br><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">2 Scoops Visalus Shake Mix</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">8 fl. oz. Silk Chocolate Soy Milk</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 tbsp. Crushed Graham Cracker Crumbs</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/8 tsp. Coconut Extract</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">2 tbsp. Torani Sugar Free Caramel Syrup</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">5-6 Ice Cubes</span><br>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 5px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<br></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Mix together and blend well.</span><br>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><b>Banana Nut ChocoChip Oatmeal Cookies</b></span><br>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">2 Scoops Visalus Shake Mix</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 c. whole wheat flour</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 tsp. baking soda</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 tsp. baking powder</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 tsp. salt</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 tsp. cinnamon</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">2 c. quick cooking oats</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/4 c. unsalted butter</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 c. packed brown sugar</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 jumbo egg</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 c. mashed ripe banana</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 tsp. vanilla</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">3/4 c. chopped walnuts</span><br><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 c. dark chocolate chips</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 5px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<br></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly spray 2 cookie sheets with Cooking Spray. Set aside. In a medium bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Set aside. Using a mixer (medium speed), cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg and mix well. Add mashed banana and vanilla. Change mixer speed to low and stir in the flour mixture. Mix lightly and add the walnuts and chocolate chips. Drop heaping of tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cookies are done. Yields 30 cookies. Cool on wire racks and store in an air tight container. Take note that the cookies are going to be darker since this recipe calls for wheat flour and brown sugar.</span><br>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">**<i>Personal note</i>: In most all recipes you can cut the sugar (whether white sugar, brown sugar or other sugars) in HALF without noticing much a difference in flavor. Less sugar in your system to give you that afternoon crash, but still with all the taste.**</span><br>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><b>No Bake Chocolate/Peanut Butter Cookies</b></span><br>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
2 Cups Rolled Oats<br>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
3/4 Cup ViSalus Shake Mix</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
3 Tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
1 Tablespoon Water</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
1/2 teaspoon vanilla</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
1/2 cup butter, softened</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 25px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
2 Tablespoons Peanut Butter</div>
<br><div style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; height: 5px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">In a large bowl, combine the oats, and cocoa. With clean hands, mix in the water, vanilla, butter and peanut butter to form a dough. Wash hands, then roll the dough into balls 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Chill 20 minutes before serving.</span><br>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br></span>Jon and Karen Egelandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15775961822541863740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-82578813026616236642013-05-23T11:57:00.002-07:002013-05-23T11:57:30.069-07:00Pitch Links from LDStorymakers Conference 2013<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOFb7DeL9P89e-M5nACBD4KB6PGwdN2O3nLgzTQdYyUYbomEo0sCj63PE7ZDwrFJZYDuzFmYuA68MJNM1GT9WsZLG5_NuLyYn-i8q8e7SOaFgUdwutwTwx-iFgB4RfXbcEqMUwsOER684/s1600/ID-10050506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOFb7DeL9P89e-M5nACBD4KB6PGwdN2O3nLgzTQdYyUYbomEo0sCj63PE7ZDwrFJZYDuzFmYuA68MJNM1GT9WsZLG5_NuLyYn-i8q8e7SOaFgUdwutwTwx-iFgB4RfXbcEqMUwsOER684/s400/ID-10050506.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20.796875px; text-align: start;">Image courtesy of </span><a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=1786" style="background-color: white; color: #404040; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none;">Nutdanai Apikhomboonwaroot</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20.796875px; text-align: start;"> /</span><a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/" style="background-color: white; color: #3db2d5; line-height: 20.796875px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">FreeDigitalPhotos.net</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">Links/Resources:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• Jennifer Laughran, literary agent: </span><a href="http://literaticat.blogspot.com/2011/01/conference-tips-part-2.html" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9698" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://literaticat.blogspot.com/2011/01/conference-tips-part-2.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• Janet Reid, literary agent: </span><a href="http://jetreidliterary.blogspot.com/2011/01/wdc11.html" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://jetreidliterary.blogspot.com/2011/01/wdc11.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• Guide to Literary Agents: </span><a href="http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/How+To+Pitch+To+An+Agent+At+A+Writers+Conference.aspx" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/How+To+Pitch+To+An+Agent+At+A+Writers+Conference.aspx</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• Writing World: </span><a href="http://www.writing-world.com/publish/pitch2.shtml" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9707" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.writing-world.com/publish/pitch2.shtml</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://www.pitch-university.com/sample-pitches/" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9706" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.pitch-university.com/sample-pitches/</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2009/04/dreaded-pitch-what-to-include-in-that.html" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9705" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2009/04/dreaded-pitch-what-to-include-in-that.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2009/01/elevator-pitch.html" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9704" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2009/01/elevator-pitch.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2011/12/writing-killer-loglines.html" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9699" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2011/12/writing-killer-loglines.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2010/06/pitching-to-agents-survivors-story.html" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9703" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2010/06/pitching-to-agents-survivors-story.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2010/05/building-your-pitch.html" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9702" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2010/05/building-your-pitch.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2010/04/conference-etiquette-revisited.html" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9714" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2010/04/conference-etiquette-revisited.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2009/02/writing-loglinethe-one-sentence-pitch.html" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9712" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2009/02/writing-loglinethe-one-sentence-pitch.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://www.sistersinscribe.com/2010/04/two-minute-elevator-pitch.html" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.sistersinscribe.com/2010/04/two-minute-elevator-pitch.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2009/02/writing-high-concept-hook.html" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2009/02/writing-high-concept-hook.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com/blog/2010/03/17/the-curious-case-of-carries-characters/" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9700" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com/blog/2010/03/17/the-curious-case-of-carries-characters/</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com/blog/2010/03/20/critiquing-rob/" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9701" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com/blog/2010/03/20/critiquing-rob/</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://theendingunplanned.blogspot.com/2011/01/wip-wednesday-pitch-that-novel.html" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://theendingunplanned.blogspot.com/2011/01/wip-wednesday-pitch-that-novel.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://www.writersdigest.com/whats-new/thrillerfest-2011-pitch" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.writersdigest.com/whats-new/thrillerfest-2011-pitch</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://www.thrillerfest.com/agentfest/pitch-tips/" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.thrillerfest.com/agentfest/pitch-tips/</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://hollybodger.com/?p=446" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://hollybodger.com/?p=446</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://hollybodger.com/?p=442" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://hollybodger.com/?p=442</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://hollybodger.com/?p=414" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://hollybodger.com/?p=414</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://blog.dawnsrise.com/2011/01/whoa-factor.html" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://blog.dawnsrise.com/2011/01/whoa-factor.html</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://www.rachellegardner.com/2010/05/the-value-of-the-verbal-pitch/" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.rachellegardner.com/2010/05/the-value-of-the-verbal-pitch/</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #454545;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #454545;">• </span><a href="http://bookendslitagency.blogspot.com/2010/07/mastering-elevator-pitch.html" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1369327777023_9750" style="background-color: white; color: #2862c5; outline: 0px;" target="_blank">http://bookendslitagency.blogspot.com/2010/07/mastering-elevator-pitch.html</a></span><br />Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-65874112224179309462013-05-06T12:55:00.001-07:002013-05-06T12:55:39.276-07:00I Made It: Thin Mint Muddy BuddiesI'm kind of obsessed with mint lately: mint ankle skinnies, Thin Mints (which, consequently, you can't eat too many of or you will not be thin and you will not fit into the mint skinnies).<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So I saw <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/376543218815046621/" target="_blank">this recipe</a> for Thin Mint Muddy Buddies and I knew I had to have them.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's how they turned out:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLD6jwnjpvn8vxsoOOTu7QIouGJZ4qrnpe2VmIgVcCceFkHfLUq6yM4OyqEbkSCPCY8ISrbsDnmb1X5In7xgrgYYF37he-uedorMO7U7AFPIdkO6B2HLg9L5Qg2v1rAq1fkuCpxgmc37tm/s1600/IMG_1812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLD6jwnjpvn8vxsoOOTu7QIouGJZ4qrnpe2VmIgVcCceFkHfLUq6yM4OyqEbkSCPCY8ISrbsDnmb1X5In7xgrgYYF37he-uedorMO7U7AFPIdkO6B2HLg9L5Qg2v1rAq1fkuCpxgmc37tm/s320/IMG_1812.JPG" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't worry -- it made way more than this. This is just the amount I scooped out for my husband. ;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
So, my tips.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* I didn't have gallon bags like the recipe wanted to use for shaking up, so I just used two big bowls that had lids. In the end I like that better because I don't waste a gallon sized bag and less to throw away. (Environment plus!) Also, I ended up storing them in one of the bowls, so win there too.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* I used off-brand mint cookies -- who would use <i>actual</i> Thin Mints for something like this?!? -- and I think they were bigger, because I ended up with a lot of crumbs in the bottom of the bowl when everything was coated. So, I would say use fewer cookies or not as much powdered sugar.</div>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-480365524827796962013-04-18T08:37:00.000-07:002013-04-18T08:37:39.426-07:00I Made It: Garlic Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread...And I changed it. :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/4a/86/7d/4a867db98199eb0a8d4b6f2a5b8e0c48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/4a/86/7d/4a867db98199eb0a8d4b6f2a5b8e0c48.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/376543218814916351/">This pin</a> from Pinterest looked amazing from the first time I saw it, but using the Rhodes rolls looked a little time-consuming to me and I'm all about easy meals--although, I will probably try the Rhodes version when I have a day that I remember about it. :) (I also want to try making making a Garlic Cheesy bread with the Rhodes bread loaves, similar to the <a href="http://www.rhodesbread.com/recipes/view/2098">Pepperoni Bread recipe</a>.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So instead, I used refrigerated biscuits. I cut them into fourths and tossed them with the butter and seasonings in the recipe, sans the Parmesan cheese. (I hardly ever have Parmesan, but I always have mozzarella.) It took me a couple tries to get the middle ones to cook, but I used a bunt pan--more biscuits were able to touch the sides of the pan and there's no middle. I cooked them for 30 minutes in the bunt pan and they turned out perfect.I forgot to layer the mozzarella in with it, but they were just as good without and I sprinkled some on top for good measure. ;)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, that's one recipe tested and successful! I guess. Kinda. :D</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Find the original recipe <a href="http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2012/09/garlic-cheese-pull-apart-bread/">here</a>.)</div>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-74027713407316418182013-04-11T12:10:00.001-07:002013-04-18T09:19:03.452-07:00Pudding Icing **UPDATED**From <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/marYvelous-Cakes/151904264875055">marYvelous Cakes</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimIDFFccqvA699xUjiOsgYvEKj97dj_3wMy6zTdjvaunT_yrpbvnoOpn3_N3xUqFW-p7v4xMlrwWuTst7ZajWssBKWl5KXeKC6OWl8GBQPtBtUmzmuOHDmqOGL2l3sSKtwS_yLHa7efQo/s1600/530036_492549487477196_1345242231_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimIDFFccqvA699xUjiOsgYvEKj97dj_3wMy6zTdjvaunT_yrpbvnoOpn3_N3xUqFW-p7v4xMlrwWuTst7ZajWssBKWl5KXeKC6OWl8GBQPtBtUmzmuOHDmqOGL2l3sSKtwS_yLHa7efQo/s640/530036_492549487477196_1345242231_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">The best icing!! All you do is mix one vanilla pudding packet with half of the milk called for on the package. Whisk until it begins to thicken. Then fold in one container of Cool Whip. A great frosting spread on cakes and piped onto cupcakes, a tasty filling in crepes or on waffles along with some fruit...way less sugar too.</span><a href="http://notjustcute.com/2010/06/24/dear-sweet-puddinhead/" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://notjustcute.com/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>2010/06/24/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>dear-sweet-puddinhead/</a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">**UPDATE**</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">I tried this recipe out for my son's birthday last week and it turned out SPECTACULAR. It was SO great, that when I needed a dessert last minute on Sunday morning, I used chocolate pudding and just, you know, set it out to eat. Mmmmm. :)</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">A couple tips:</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">* I've heard some say that it doesn't turn out very smooth. My hand mixer has a whisk attachment that I used and it turned out very smooth.</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">* Chill it before using it to frost a cake and it will be stiffer and easier to frost with.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://www.clickinmoms.com/cmprodaily/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/pinit.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-6015858680607117272013-04-08T12:15:00.000-07:002013-04-08T12:15:11.992-07:00The MovementRemember how I mentioned I hated it that there was this trend to share recipes on Facebook instead of pinning them? Well, my cousin has joined me in the effort to put a stop to it. ;) Okay, not really, but we'll be posting some recipes here so we know where they are and so we can pin them. Feel free to join our movement too.Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-8122498788012533072013-04-05T11:19:00.000-07:002013-04-05T11:19:46.873-07:00Homemade Hamburger BunsDoes anyone know what's up with this new trend to share photo recipes on Facebook? Call me old fashioned, but this just doesn't work for me. Just when I got my recipes all nice and organized on Pinterest.<br />
<br />
You can find the original recipe <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=172677879552994&set=a.130825290404920.30569.130807550406694&type=1">here</a>, should you be inclined to share it on Facebook.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;">Homemade Hamburger Buns</span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;">
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="text-align: left;"></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="text-align: left;">2 tablespoons active dry yeast</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="text-align: left;">
</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; text-align: left;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; text-align: left;">1 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water (110° to 115°)</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; text-align: left;">
</span></span>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; text-align: left;">1/3 cup vegetable oil</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
1/4 cup sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
1 egg</div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
1 teaspoon salt</div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
3 to 3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add oil and sugar; let stand for 5 minutes. Add the egg, salt and enough flour to form a soft dough. </div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 3-5 minutes. Do not let rise. Divide into 12 pieces; shape each into a ball. Place 3 in. apart on greased baking sheets. </div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Bake at 425° for 8-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool. Makes a dozen.</div>
</span></span>Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-70890007895184835842013-03-19T12:55:00.001-07:002013-03-19T12:55:27.862-07:00Skinnies!Finding <a href="http://www.merricksart.com/2011/08/skinny-jean-is-born-tutorial.html">this tutorial</a> on how to remake jeans into skinny jeans killed two birds with one stone today. (*Also, new favorite blog.)<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1) I have NEVER liked the way these jeans looked on me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYW4z0K3f_dBqeTezhCfS4I_1JXFibHHyVJSRQg8HGVUGzoiV5f_vOjP8v7co-jJ2LnKuDmChP2m0IXcRT1t6vkZK8tcXnc0OuhMlmCkfX4rZHa11C7gtktXOROplnRF1uR2dn2ca38Sl/s1600/before+pants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYW4z0K3f_dBqeTezhCfS4I_1JXFibHHyVJSRQg8HGVUGzoiV5f_vOjP8v7co-jJ2LnKuDmChP2m0IXcRT1t6vkZK8tcXnc0OuhMlmCkfX4rZHa11C7gtktXOROplnRF1uR2dn2ca38Sl/s320/before+pants.jpg" width="118" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I don't know? Something in the hips? The flare? Not flattering on me. Only heaven knows why I bought them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And 2) I need a pair of lighter wash skinny jeans. I have two pairs of dark wash ones, and I always feel all dressed up when I put them on. I know. Weird.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So anyway. Ta da!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9ITHY1I9fUGg3usTyeZ-l8twAUwFw9tN72dvJ3ERTg6hhQGkcmlYX7ZbNIptNBsPj8Mvl1FeJzVqziOx4l-512VM7I7GeEvpBO1IJAol9xPImbVGbR5SRpcUAHBdjCeksbBf2czXKsSe/s1600/after+pans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9ITHY1I9fUGg3usTyeZ-l8twAUwFw9tN72dvJ3ERTg6hhQGkcmlYX7ZbNIptNBsPj8Mvl1FeJzVqziOx4l-512VM7I7GeEvpBO1IJAol9xPImbVGbR5SRpcUAHBdjCeksbBf2czXKsSe/s400/after+pans.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-3879599255033400992013-03-19T07:34:00.002-07:002013-03-19T07:34:45.477-07:00Crochet Tank<div style="position: relative;">
<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/top/thing.outbound?.embedder=0&.svc=copypaste&id=36045962" target="_blank"><img alt="Top" border="0" height="600" src="http://embed.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/y/tid/36045962.jpg" title="Top" width="600" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />
<small></small><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/top/thing.outbound?.embedder=0&.svc=copypaste&id=36045962" target="_blank">Top</a> (clipped to <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/" target="_blank">polyvore.com</a>)</small></div>
</div>
Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-1789188134281745012013-03-14T12:25:00.001-07:002013-03-14T12:25:34.324-07:00Quick MuffinsI love making muffins for my kids in the morning. The problem is that I also like to sleep, so that by the time I have them all made up, they're coming out of the oven <i>just when we need to leave</i>. So my munchkins get like two to munch on the way to school. Not cool.<br />
<br />
Then I found a recipe on Pinterest that was for single servings of coffee cake, and of course I thought, "Well, that could work for <b>anything</b>!"<br />
<br />
Like muffins.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQDFYKgtgBEh5mBBVA5PdAtGh3SpUiMqgt8D6QrfEvOOe0OkxnFUXXynry73egDcI1rX9bTh5HE7pSXMisOq9x6NuPKWSN62axol9oXLXWw_bXs_UB-HWIjO6iZ2Q6wdbJqWw-xe4jDEq/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQDFYKgtgBEh5mBBVA5PdAtGh3SpUiMqgt8D6QrfEvOOe0OkxnFUXXynry73egDcI1rX9bTh5HE7pSXMisOq9x6NuPKWSN62axol9oXLXWw_bXs_UB-HWIjO6iZ2Q6wdbJqWw-xe4jDEq/s400/photo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.clickinmoms.com/cmprodaily/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/pinit.jpg" alt="Pin It" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My 4 oz. ramekins are perfect for muffin-size stuff, but you could use anything small that is microwave safe. (Hot-cocoa cups? Pinch bowls? I have some from Pampered Chef that are also perfect for little Barbie cakes, and should I ever have a girl, you better believe I'm making little Barbie cakes.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I put two in at a time and cook them for 1 minute. The boys love eating them with forks. They think that's awesome.</div>
<br />Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-40744239144739291052013-03-14T12:18:00.000-07:002013-05-19T13:49:33.720-07:00Ice Cube TraysSo there are some things that I always have too much of when I open the can for a recipe or something.<br />
<br />
My little idea:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEfGnlCppLaHmNd7QqTLCXc3xWPP0q2W23-CWaTb8EPXTUy0VEExlbbSXU6BeP7ZFkPqTrOCeN82jcsCVBPcfDHcTSL5rvqIkrxFVNSR0zzoVpmZ24Y_LhUJHKxqbe9EWuKGgi9z1d6qhyphenhyphen/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEfGnlCppLaHmNd7QqTLCXc3xWPP0q2W23-CWaTb8EPXTUy0VEExlbbSXU6BeP7ZFkPqTrOCeN82jcsCVBPcfDHcTSL5rvqIkrxFVNSR0zzoVpmZ24Y_LhUJHKxqbe9EWuKGgi9z1d6qhyphenhyphen/s400/photo+(1).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://www.clickinmoms.com/cmprodaily/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/pinit.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Freeze those left over things in ice cube trays so that 1) you don't waste any and 2) you have smaller portions for next time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Things I love to do this with:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
* spaghetti or tomato sauce (especially because I love ravioli with all my heart and when I just make a bowl for myself, I need a little sauce . . . not a whole can.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
* baby cereals (It's super-easy to grind rice and oats to make your own [and save a TON of money, btw] but a bit time consuming to make it up every time, so I just make a moderate size batch and freeze it. For my 4-month-old, the portion sizes are perfect.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*fresh herbs in water</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
* pureed pumpkin (or any vegetable/fruit!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: red;">****UPDATED*** Plain Greek Yogurt - It can be used as a substitute for sour cream in so many recipes. But I buy a big tub and then forget to use it! Problem solved--into an ice cube tray, into the freezer, ta da! AND when Squishy gets old enough to eat yogurt with his baby food...easy to add into the mix.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Your ideas?</div>
<br />Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2912354653043100998.post-37584244780451048752013-03-14T08:39:00.001-07:002013-03-14T08:39:45.567-07:00ReasonsEver since I discovered Pinterest, that's where I organize ALL my ideas. But the problem with Pinterest is that you can only pin what's already out there floating around on the internet. What if I have a great idea? One that's not really BIG enough for my writer's blog ... and one that want to share with the whole world so not the thing for our family blog?<br />
<br />
This blog.Ranee`http://www.blogger.com/profile/08982272894927029549noreply@blogger.com0