The Holiday Barn

Check Back Often

2009-11-06T07:13:00.001-08:00

Hello Friends and Readers....

Please check back often for changes that are coming!!!!

The Thanksgiving Planner

2009-11-02T14:23:00.000-08:00

Are you preparing for Thanksgiving yet? Well, now is the time! We have the most awesome Thanksgiving Planner you need to check out. Look to your right...see the link?? Click it!!

This planner is perfect with everything in it you need! Everything from tips to cleaning, organizing, shopping, to the most tastiest of recipes! You're going to just love it!!!

Are you planning for Thanksgiving already? It's time!

2009-11-02T13:43:00.000-08:00

I've got just the thing for you to help organize your Thanksgiving! It's the "Thanksgiving Planner" from Christian Homekeeper.

http://christianhomekeeper.org/files/2009/10/square-shadow-planner-screenshot.jpg

This is the most fun reading planner I've ever seen! It has everything from cleaning tips, to preparing for company tips, to awesome recipes! YUM!!

CHECK IT OUT!!!!

Last minute costume ideas

2009-10-31T05:18:00.000-07:00

http://holiday-entertaining.suite101.com/article.cfm/easy_last_minute_halloween_costume_ideas

http://www.ehow.com/how_2252012_make-cow-costume.html

http://www.ehow.com/way_5275804_easy-make-childrens-costumes.html

If you have any kind of imagination and a little makeup, you can come up with a costume.
Have a fun day today yall!!!

Check it out

2009-10-28T10:11:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out my xanga blog!

www.xanga.com/faithmom6

There's a sweet story about pumpkins with pictures of Nathan and me carving our pumpkin.

Pictures of our own pumpkin carving adventures!

2009-10-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

For some reason I can't get the photos in the order they're suppose to be in. The first picture is the end result and so on. Hope you like our photos!

Carving a Pumpkin

2009-10-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

Here are some links to carving pumpkins!

http://www.ehow.com/how_3983_carve-pumpkin.html

http://www.ehow.com/videos-on_67_carve-halloween-pumpkin.html

http://www.extremepumpkins.com/howtotips.html

http://babyparenting.about.com/b/2009/10/27/how-to-carve-a-pumpkin.htm

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1933375/how_to_carve_a_pumpkin/

http://www.holidash.com/halloween/decorating/how-to-carve-a-pumpkin

2009-10-18T05:24:00.000-07:00

My little Cheer Bear Carebear. Halloween 2007

Isn't he a doll? This year, he's going to be a "baby turtle". Will post pictures after our Fall Festival and Trick or Treating this year!

For those who do not celebrate Halloween....

2009-10-16T08:55:00.000-07:00

I definitely didn't want to leave anyone out yesterday posting Halloween coloring sheet links.

So, here are some FALL coloring sheets!! If you come across a Halloween picture in the mix, it was totally not my intention!! This is all Fall yall!!! LOL

http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?_adv_prop=image&fr=b1ie7&va=fall+coloring+sheets&sz=all

http://holidays.kaboose.com/fall-color.html

http://www.raisingourkids.com/coloring-pages/holiday/autumn-fall/index.html

http://www.crayola.com/free-coloring-pages/seasons/fall-coloring-pages/

http://www.printactivities.com/ColoringPages/Autumn/Fall4.html

http://www.apples4theteacher.com/coloring-pages/fall/

http://www.kookerkids.com/coloring_autumn.htm

http://www.first-school.ws/theme/cpseasons_autumn.htm

http://www.colormountain.com/coloring-pages/index.php?id=75

http://www.allkidsnetwork.com/coloring-pages/Fall.html

Halloween Coloring Pages for Kids

2009-10-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

Here are a few links to coloring pages for kids. Halloween coloring pages. These are Halloween coloring sheets. Not fall coloring sheets. I said that for some religious friends who might would be offended to click and have a ghost jump out and scare them with a boo!! hahahahaha I have not clicked through each and every coloring page to see what was on it. Just so ya know!

http://www.free-coloring-pages.com/halloween.html

http://www.kidsturncentral.com/holidays/hcolor.htm

http://familyfun.go.com/halloween/halloween-printables/halloween-coloring-pages/

http://www.apples4theteacher.com/coloring-pages/halloween/

http://www.coloring.ws/halloween.html

http://www.coloringpages.net/halloween.html

http://halloween-coloring.com/pages/preschool.html

http://halloween-coloring.com/pages/kid.html

http://www.hersheys.com/trickortreats/activities/coloring.asp

http://familycrafts.about.com/cs/halloweentheme/a/101501a.htm

http://coloringbookfun.com/Halloween/

Halloween

2009-10-15T09:06:00.000-07:00

I remember a poem we had to recite in the first grade. I remember my desk, where I was sitting, how the weather was outside, and how nice my teacher was. Mrs. Corbin. I wish I could find her. Will try Facebook later. hahahaha

Halloween

Halloween is near

Lots of things to fear

Ghosts in spotless white

Witches to give you fright

So lock your doors and

Lock your windows too

Or else a ghost will come in

and scare you with a boo!

Amazing the things we can remember from all those years ago.

And I can't remember to pick up toilet paper from the store.

A Book Give-Away!!!

2009-09-14T11:14:00.001-07:00

My dear friend Cindy is part of a book give away!
Go to her blog and enter now!!

http://cindystamps.blogspot.com/2009/09/you-were-born-for-this.html

2009-08-01T06:55:00.000-07:00

Good August the 1st morning!
I am so excited about this new month.
I'm sure everyone is preparing to go back to school now. Our home school starts Monday, August 3rd.

I'm so glad you check back with this blog every now and then!

Don't forget, this is The Holiday Barn, and as holidays approach, I will post any and all information I can find regarding that particular holiday.

Thank you for reading my blog!

Back to School

2009-07-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

Even though for some parents, Back to School IS a holiday for them...hahahahaha...
I wanted to post that Toys R Us has backpacks on sale and when you purchase one for $12.99 + you can get a free lunch kit to go with it!!
There are several good deals at Toys R Us for Back to School supplies, as well as Walmart and your typical dollar stores, etc.
We home school and have for 10+ years now. I wanted to also let you guys know that Dollar Tree has some awesome charts like the solar system, alphabet manuscript/cursive writing charts, etc. All kinds of stickers, etc.
Be sure to check it all out. You'd hate to miss a bargain!!

Well...I've been absent for some time haven't I?

2009-07-11T05:42:00.000-07:00

Sorry about the long absence.
I hope to be back soon writing about upcoming holidays.
I am pregnant...so that's my story and I'm stickin' with it!! hahaha
Being 41 and pregnant isn't like being 21 and pregnant!
I will keep you all updated as I have updates.
So far.... We're at 9 weeks!!

Easter Pictures

2009-04-29T08:55:00.001-07:00

I have put Easter pictures on my other blog.
I was having trouble loading them on this blog.
Go here: www.xanga.com/faithmom6
Nathan is my 2 year old - who will be 3 in a few weeks. He is the star in the photos!! hahahaha
Warning: Proud Mama Alert!

Just a few days left!

2009-04-08T11:32:00.000-07:00

There are only a few days left until Easter Sunday!

Are you prepared? You might want to start making out your menus and prepare your shopping lists from those.

Does the Easter Bunny come to your house? He does here. So, do you need to prepare for Peter Cottontail's arrival too? Make a list!!

Lists are our friends. Say that outloud: Lists are MY friends!

Now, when you go to the store - GET that list out and USE IT!! hahaha

Don't forget that list!

You might want to also check your local grocery stores to see which ones are going to be open on Sunday and which ones are closed. Walmart (here in Louisiana) is staying open. But there are several other grocery stores that will be closed that day.

A grocery store is more frugal than a convenience store for sure. Even if you find what you're looking for in a convenience store, check the "use by date". Lots of time those items are out of date. That wouldn't be very good for your meal, especially if there are guests at your table!

Be prepared!

Check local sale papers for coupons, etc.

I hope your Easter is very special and meaningful to you and your precious families!!!

Just a reminder

2009-04-06T09:17:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow night, April 7th, 2009, "It's the Easter Beagle Charlie Brown" tv special is coming on tv. ABC at 7:00 PM CST.

I really like Charlie Brown!!! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/It's_the_Easter_Beagle,_Charlie_Brown

Are you hosting company in your home Easter weekend?

2009-04-04T10:44:00.000-07:00

Are you hosting company in your home for Easter weekend?

If so, you might want to do some spring cleaning. (I know, I know!)

It's that time of year though!

If you need some spring cleaning tips, print-outs, help - please be sure to visit

Christianhomekeeper.org where my dear friend Sylvia worked with the lot of us there!

You can just click on the Christian Homekeeper button to the right of this blog --->

Another Cupcake idea or two

2009-04-03T15:30:00.000-07:00

I was going to tell you readers that you can also get some Cadbury Chocolate eggs that are absolutely SCRUMPTIOUS, and instead of peeps, put 3 or 5 little Cadbury eggs in a nest built using the green colored coconut.

Or you can also color your frosting beautiful pastel colors and frost the tops of your cupcakes. When they are set together, it just looks so springy and Eastery!! hahaha

Easter Cupcakes

2009-04-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

Last year or year before, my daughter Lydia and I made cupcakes for Easter.

They turned out sooo cute!

We made cupcakes using a yellow box mix.

Then we frosted with white icing. We had coconut and dyed it green using food coloring.

Then, for the finishing finale - we topped the cupcakes with a yellow, chicken peep!!

They're a lot of fun to make and fun to serve as well!

"TIE" dying eggs

2009-03-31T08:27:00.000-07:00

I am going to post a link that has the funnest idea of coloring Easter eggs! Wait till you see this!

http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site/mslo/menuitem.3a0656639de62ad593598e10d373a0a0/?vgnextoid=955500e62abd0110VgnVCM1000003d370a0aRCRD&autonomy_kw=silk+tie+egg

(YOU may have to "copy & paste" the address into your URL due to a new browser I'm using and it won't post the link the correct way )

That looks like the epitome of fun to me!!

If you try this activity, let me know how it turned out.

I would love to give it a go myself and if I do, I will post pictures!

Dying Easter Eggs and other activities

2009-03-26T10:38:00.000-07:00

I love dying Easter eggs! I'm 40 years old and I still enjoy doing that little activity. I did a search and here are a few ideas for your Easter egg dying this year.

http://www.dltk-holidays.com/easter/dye.htm Be sure to check out the different dye ideas.

http://www.dltk-holidays.com/easter/crafts.html Easter Crafts

http://familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts/season/specialfeature/easter_crafts_ms/ crafts

http://www.daniellesplace.com/HTML/easter.html Christian crafts

http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/easter-religious/ religious

http://blackdog.net/holiday/easter/index.html all sorts of stuff

Hope this helps you with ideas for your kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews, Sunday School kids, or children's church kids. Maybe you can use these ideas and come up with your own!!

Have fun with the young person in your life!!

Tweaking my menu for Easter Lunch

2009-03-24T12:44:00.000-07:00

I think I need to tweak my Easter lunch menu.

I'm changing my mind on what sounds good to me. hahaha

Here's the tweak.

ham/fried chicken

mashed potatoes or potato salad

deviled eggs

La Suer Peas

either french bread toasted or rolls

Easy Lemon Cake

Paula Deen's Eclair dessert

Bunny Cake

How does that sound?

I enjoy cooking for my family so very much!

I'm looking forward to a beautiful Easter Sunday!!

A yummy dessert

2009-03-21T19:30:00.001-07:00

Instead of chocolate pie for my Easter desserts...I'm adding this one -

http://recipes.pauladeen.com/index.php/recipes/view/eclair_cake/

Instead of the homemade icing though, I use one already made in a tub!
This is awesome!

What is your special Easter meal? Or do you have one?

2009-03-20T07:05:00.001-07:00

From one Easter to the next, I never know what I'm going to have as our special meal.

I do know it will have Easter eggs included!!

Easter isn't like Thanksgiving or Christmas. We always have turkey, ham, dressing and all the fixings! That's a "no brainer" for sure.

I think this Easter we will have ham. Everybody in our house loves ham.

Even my 2 year old will eat ham.

We will have deviled eggs too. There will be plenty of boiled eggs to use.

Ok, our menu is shaping up to look like this:

ham

mashed potatoes

deviled eggs

broccoli and cheese casserole

lima beans (my favorite)

Easter Bunny Cake

chocolate pie

cobbler with vanilla ice cream

Whatever your meal, make it special. Your husband and kids deserve something special!

To my dear readers

2009-03-19T10:34:00.000-07:00

Hi Readers,

I just thought I'd ask you to please leave a comment if you read my blog and have found it helpful.

I enjoy writing so much and this is one of my outlets for doing so.

I love little children and I try to provide a place for you to grab that quick coloring sheet or idea.

Recipes, fun stuff, serious stuff.

I would like to hear from you!!

2009-03-19T10:33:00.001-07:00

Come and chat with us on the CHK Network Forums!

Bunny Cake

2009-03-19T07:07:00.001-07:00

Bunny Cake

2009-03-19T06:58:00.000-07:00

Have you ever made a bunny cake for Easter? I have and it's so much fun and so easy to do!
I first learned how to make this cake from my sister, Beth. She has since passed away, so I make it every Easter and think of the fun times we'd had together!

Here's a link on how to make this cute cake!
http://www.countrymom.com/sweets/bunny-cake.html

Now, my bunch doesn't care for coconut at all! So I usually omit that.

I use candy straws for the whiskers too. Then we outline our bunny cake with different colored jelly beans or gum drops.

A Few Easter Coloring Pages

2009-03-16T13:26:00.001-07:00

I thought I would add a few Easter coloring pages.
I will try to add more as I find them.
Also, if I come across a couple of Saint Patrick's Day coloring pages/ideas, I will add those as well!!

http://www.free-coloring-pages.com/easter.html

http://printables.kaboose.com/holidays/easter/coloring-pages/easter-color.html (this link also include St. Patrick Day coloring sheets, puzzle sheets, and ideas to use)

http://www.dltk-holidays.com/easter/measterposter.htm - you can either print them in color or black and white to color.

http://coloringpages.nick-magic.com/easter.html This website, scroll down - there is a darling little bunny rabbit you can print out on stock paper, cut it out, and put together using brads. This is too cute. I bet you could use construction paper instead of cardstock.

http://www.apples4theteacher.com/coloring-pages/christian-easter/ These are religious coloring sheets. Nice.

http://www.fun-with-pictures.com/easter-coloring-pages.html

http://holidays.kaboose.com/easter-printables.html

http://familyfun.go.com/printables/coloring-pages/specialfeature/holiday-coloring-pages/#

http://christiananswers.net/kids/clr-indx.html This is a fantastic site. To find the story of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection - scroll down. There are also lesson plans that go with this site. Awesome place.

http://www.preschoolcoloringbook.com/color/cpeaster.shtml

I hope to add more color page links later on! Hope this will help get you started!!

It's Springtime in Louisiana!

2009-03-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

This is Nathan helping color/dye Easter eggs! He was having so much fun!!!

Nathan would color his egg with a crayon before dying.

Mom and Nathan playing with the Easter eggs

Nathan in his Easter "Go Go Go" outfit

Nathan at the park

Nathan and Daddy at the town's egg hunt in DeRidder, LA.

All those pictures were taken in 2008!!

2009-03-16T06:53:00.001-07:00

Come and chat with us on the CHK Network Forums!

2009-01-16T15:53:00.001-08:00

I want to thank my dear friend Cindy for awarding this to me.

http://www.cindystamps.blogspot.com/

You can copy and paste the picture of the award and put it on your blog and pass it on to 6 people if you want...Thanks for being great bloggers!!!

Sylvia - http://christianhomekeeper.com/

Karen - http://lilies-of-the-field.blogspot.com/

Cindy - http://cindyslifelessons.blogspot.com/

Beth - http://www.myredriverhome.blogspot.com/

Kristen - http://unsinkablekristen.blogspot.com/index.html

Traci - http://traciscottage.com/

2009-01-05T07:39:00.000-08:00

Do you realize that next month is Valentine's Day?

I really like Valentine's Day. It's full of romance, surprises and lots of fun!

The day after Christmas the shelves began to fill up with pink and red teddy bears!

I can't wait for Valentine's Day! We're going to have fun!

2008-12-24T11:56:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS YALL!!!!

My Christmas gift to you all is my book, "Oh What A Night It Must've Been!"

If you'd like your free copy, then please email me directly so I can email the book to you!!

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-23T08:17:00.001-08:00

Be sure to vist tomorrow.

I will have a very special gift for you all!!!

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-22T07:17:00.000-08:00

Gifts in a Jar

If you are looking for the perfect gifts for teachers at school, Sunday School teachers, neighbors, guests in your home, and need something cost efficient, easy, and fun, here’s the perfect gift for you to put together.
There are food mixes in a jar, bath salts in a jar, cookies in a jar, and whatever else your imagination can put in a jar!

http://organizedchristmas.com/index-gifts-in-a-jar

http://www.allfreecrafts.com/giftinajar/index.shtml

http://www.craftbits.com/viewCategory.do?categoryID=REC

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgift/foodgift.html

http://www.kitchenlink.com/holiday/merrygifts.html

You’re going to love this next jar idea.
This is called “The Jar of Nothing”!
For this project all you need is an empty jar.

You can print this saying out onto some adhesive label paper suitable for your printer or print it onto normal plain paper. Use some clear craft glue to adhere it to the jar. If you want to go all out you can add some ribbon to the jar and even box it up for a great gag gift.

--The Saying---

Did you say nothing?
When you were asked what you wanted for
Birthday, Anniversary, Graduation or Christmas.
Don't you remember saying NOTHING
Well this time someone heard you, searched
high and low and found this perfect gift for you.

Note: These are great for Christmas fund raising stalls. Here’s the website for that:

http://www.craftbits.com/viewProject.do?projectID=1087

2008-12-19T08:52:00.000-08:00

Fabric Gift Bags

These bags are loads of fun to make! Choose the fabric. I love John Deere stuff. Fabric shops have pink John Deere fabric now too. You don’t have to make your bag a Christmas bag necessarily. You might would like to use this little bag for your child to put Sunday School papers in to bring home from church, carry their Bible in it, or put a few small toys or books in it for church or to leave in the car.

All I did was decide how big I wanted my bag. I cut out 4 rectangles, 2 sized batting pieces.
I made them similar to the stockings. I had the right sides of the fabric together, then batting on both sides of that, then the right sides of the fabric out.
Pinned and then sewed down one side, across the bottom, then up the 2nd side, leaving the top open.

Trimmed then flipped inside out.

At the top you should see raw edges and the inside of the bag with the batting.
I folded the raw edges down and pressed with iron.
You can either make your bag handles or buy the “rope” type handles. Pin them where you want them. Then sew seam around the pressed down edges including sewing the handles into place.

Next, zigzag stitch around the top of bag.

If you’re making this as a gift for a child, fill it with fun things! A small chalkboard with chalk from the dollar store, or books, candy, pencils, colored pencils, crayons, activity pads, candy canes, or whatever.

Remember, you can make this bag however big or small you want it. That’s the glory of making it yourself.

2008-12-18T08:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Jesus!!!

It’s Jesus’ birthday! Jesus is the Reason for the Season! Don’t let your small children forget about Jesus this Christmas. One precious Christmas tradition we started last year with Nathan ( who is 2 yrs. old ) is we baked a birthday cake. Let your tot help you with this process.

If your child isn’t afraid of the mixer, help guide his small hand with your hand to mix the batter. Or let him help spray your baking pan with non-stick spray.

Bake your cake and tell your child it’s for Jesus’ birthday. Be sure to decorate it and write “Happy Birthday Jesus” on the top of the cake once it’s iced.

Now you can get edible sugar letters for wording on cakes and such.

Then, at some point on Christmas Eve or even Christmas Day, as you gather around your dessert table with your family, be sure to sing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus. It’s a very moving and precious tradition to start with your tot.

2008-12-17T07:08:00.000-08:00

7 Days until the Big Day!! Christmas of course!!

Are you finished with your Christmas shopping? Have you gotten it all wrapped??
Are you using gift bags or wrapping the gifts with beautiful wrapping paper?

Links on How to Wrap Gifts

I used to wrap gifts for a particular department store in north Louisiana. I know how to do it and do it well. But it’s difficult for me to explain it from myself to you without demonstrating it. So, please enjoy the following links! And remember – if you still don’t understand how to wrap presents – buy gift bags!!

http://www.ehow.com/how_8019_wrap-gift.html

http://thefuntimesguide.com/2005/12/howtowrapgifts.php

I always try to find a box to fit the gift item. I enjoy wrapping gifts and making bows.
Lots of times, if you’ll check your local discount stores and malls, church youth groups will wrap your gifts for a small fee. They’re usually raising money for missions trips or something like that. Plus, you’re giving to charity.

Hope this has helped you on your gift wrapping endeavors!

2008-12-14T19:35:00.000-08:00

This recipe is a very tasty recipe or so says my new friend from the Merry Christmas.com!!

My new friend gave me permission to post this recipe! I hope you try it! Ooh I will definitely be trying this one!!

1 bag (3-3.5 oz) microwave popcorn

1 7 oz. jar marshmallow creme

Colorful candies, if desired

1. Heat oven to 325 and spray a large cookie sheet with non-stick spray

2. Microwave popcorn per instructions on bag. Remove all unpopped kernels.

3. Microwave marshmallow creme in a medium bowl for about 2 minutes (stirring after 1 minute) until melted.

4. Combine popcorn and marshmallow creme and spread onto cookie sheet. Sprinkle candies on top, if desired.

5. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes, stirring after 5, until marshmallow creme is dry. Cool completely (about 30 minutes) and break up large pieces.

2008-12-12T07:28:00.000-08:00

What are you up to today?
It's FRIDAY!! Yay!

All the snow from yesterday has melted. Except for the two snowmen guarding the mailbox!

I so enjoyed the snow. It was just beautiful!!

Well, I have something fun to do this weekend! I get to go to my church's Christmas potluck dinner! I can't hardly wait! It's going to be loads of fun! I've already decided what my contributions will be.

Also, the recipes are posted already on this blog. So, be sure to check them out. If you ever use any of my recipes leave me a comment. I'd love to know what you thought!

Aunt Kathy's Potato Casserole

Aunt Kathy's Corn Casserole

Spinach Casserole

Peanut Patty

Chocolate/Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

Peppermint Bark Candy

Chocolate Chip Cookies

I'm also thinking about bringing fruit dip and a fruit tray. Maybe a pie or two. I love to cook and bake and I want to have plenty to offer!

2008-12-11T06:52:00.000-08:00

It has snowed in Lafayette, LA!!

Today's Gift is an accumulation of Christmas Coloring Sheets

2008-12-09T08:09:00.000-08:00

I hope you enjoy these!

http://coloring-page.net/christmas.html
http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&q=Christmas+Coloring+Pages&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&resnum=1&ct=title
http://www.dltk-holidays.com/Xmas/color/index.htm
http://www.coloringpages.net/christmas.html
http://holidays.kaboose.com/xmas-color.html
http://www.coloring-pages-book-for-kids-boys.com/christmas-coloring-sheets.html
http://www.coloring.ws/christmas.htm
http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/christmas_coloring.htm
http://www.momsnetwork.com/kids/coloring/holidays/christmas/index.shtml
http://www.thekidzpage.com/christmas/colouring.htm
http://www.primarygames.com/holidays/christmas/color.htm
http://www.dltk-holidays.com/Xmas/coloring.html
http://www.ivyjoy.com/coloring/christmas/
http://www.preschoolcoloringbook.com/color/cpchristmas.shtml
http://www.janbrett.com/christmas_trolls_coloring_page.htm
http://www.apples4theteacher.com/coloring-pages/christmas/
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Acres/1170/colorpages.html
http://www.coloring.com/pictures/christmas
http://coloringbookfun.com/christian/index.htm
http://coloringbookfun.com/christmas/index.htm
http://coloringbookfun.com/angels/index.htm
http://coloringbookfun.com/santa/index.htm
http://freechristmascoloring.com/
http://www.raisingourkids.com/hol/christmas/coloring_pages/
http://www.theholidayspot.com/christmas/coloring_book/
http://www.coloring.ws/nativity.htm

http://www.apples4theteacher.com/coloring-pages/christian-christmas/
http://www.coloring-book.info/coloring/coloring_page.php?id=19
http://www.kidsturncentral.com/coloring/12dayscolor.htm
http://www.squiglysplayhouse.com/ArtsAndCrafts/ColouringPictures/Christmas/index.html
http://www.seussville.com/grinch/coloring.swf
http://www.allthingschristmas.com/northpole/color/coloring.html
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Marvaline2/CH/tocolor.html
http://www.bigmamasrecipes.com/holidays/xmas/coloringindex.html
http://www.calvarywilliamsport.com/coloringchristmas.html
http://www.mes-english.com/coloring/christmas1.php
http://parenting.leehansen.com/downloads/coloring/christmas-coloring.htm
http://www.coloringpage.org/christmas/christmas-coloring-pagesprint.html
http://www.first-school.ws/THEME/cp_h_christmas.htm

http://www.awesomeclipartforeducators.com/christmascoloringpages.cfm
http://www.edupics.com/en-coloring-pages-pictures-photo-christmas-c90.html
http://www.merry-christmas.com/coloring/index.htm
http://www.crayola.com/free-coloring-pages/celebrate/christmas-coloring-pages/
http://www.classbrain.com/artholiday/publish/christmas_coloring_pages.shtml
http://www.santaletter.com/coloringpages/
http://www.myhome.org/hoho/hohotext.html
http://www.coloringcastle.com/christmas_coloring_pages.html
http://www.cybersleuth-kids.com/christmas/color/
http://www.abcteach.com/directory/fun_activities/coloring_pages/holidayseasonal/christmas/

More Yummy Recipes!!!!!

2008-12-08T09:27:00.000-08:00

This is Nathan! He's our precious 2 year old little boy who is learning about this Christmas thing!

These are from my precious friend Sylvia!

http://christianhomekeeper.com/

Little Debbie Cakes

Cream together thoroughly 1 1/2 cups soft butter

1 cup brown sugar

Add, beating til fluffy2 eggs

blend in 2/3 cup mollasses

Sift together dry ingredients (except whole wheat flour and oatmeal) and add

2 1/2 cups flour

2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp cloves

1/2 tsp ground ginger

1 cup whole wheat flour

3 cups quick oatmeal

Drop by spoonfuls into a dish of granulated sugar and roll into balls. Place on greased baking sheet and flatten slightly with bottom of glass. Bake at 350* degrees about 8 m inutes. Cool and fill with Whoopie Pie filling

Whoopie Pie Filling

2 egg whites2 tsp clear vanilla1/4 cup flourBeat together thoroughly, til fluffy. Spread on one cookie and top with another. These are best if individually wrapped.

I was also thinking that if you had some extra sandwich bags or ziplock bags, you could put them in those as well.

2008-12-07T12:42:00.000-08:00

Would you like to win a Wii and a Wii Fit??

Then go here to read all about it! http://wiifit.coolmomguide.com/fitness-friday/
I signed up!!

2008-12-05T09:12:00.001-08:00

When you think of the color blue at Christmas time, do you think of that song “I’ll have a Blue Christmas Without You”? Are you at risk for having a “blue” Christmas?

There are situations and circumstances that can make the Holiday Season be really hard and sad for lots of people. I think people hurt more during the Holidays than at any other time.

If you know of someone who is hurting during the Holidays, I want to give you a few tips on “reaching out” to them.

First of all, pray for that person or family. Ask God to show you specifically what you can do to minister to them. He will show you. God uses people to minister to each other. So be a willing and yielded vessel for Him to fill up and pour out.

Next, find out if this person/family have/has needs that need to be met. Maybe a turkey or a ham for their table. Gifts for the children? I imagine even a plate of Christmas cookies or goodies would help bring a smile to a lonely, haggard face. Just knowing someone genuinely cares about them goes a long way.

I remember the first Thanksgiving and Christmas after my mother passed away. It was a tender time and a sad time. We were hurting together as a family. Just being together somehow helped us. That Christmas, I’ll never forget.

Christmas 1996. My mom had passed away on October 21. Mother always loved Thanksgiving and Christmas. So we all knew she’d want us to celebrate the Holidays and be together. We shed tears and reminisced about Holidays past. Christmas was really incredible that year.

My dad is a minister and was pastoring at this time. I forgot to mention that my mom was an incredible artist. She could paint and draw really well. She won many ribbons and awards for her work. Some of the ladies from my dad’s church had gotten together and gone through my mom’s paintings. They found painted portraits of each one of us kids. My dad saved them and gave those to each of us for Christmas gifts that year. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house!

It was healing to receive those paintings. Such treasures too. And those ladies took time out of their schedules to help my dad get those paintings together for us. I will forevermore be grateful to them for the time they invested in our family like that.

You never know what people are going through. You never know what is causing their pain and hurt. So always be sensitive to others and to their needs. Even the grouchiest person in line at the store. They may be grouchy because their hearts are broken. Maybe they are estranged from their family. You never know the root of their grumpiness. You can be the Light of Jesus to them. You can be His hand extended reaching out to the oppressed. Especially during Christmas time.

Now, if you yourself are feeling “blue” during the Holidays, there are some things you can do. Pray. Ask God to touch you and to speak to you. He will. Worship Him and thank Him for all He’s done for you. Light a wonderful, smelling candle. Turn a light or two on in your house during the day if your house seems a little dark.

Read your Bible. Read in Luke 2 about Jesus being born. Read about how Simeon was overjoyed at getting to see Baby Jesus. You can read about a lady named Anna too.

Turn on some beautiful Christmas music. It will lift your spirits if you let it! Bake some fresh banana nut bread or chocolate chip cookies!! Chocolate ministers to me at times!!

If you have children, remember that they’re looking to you and depending on you for their Christmas time joy! Don’t disappoint your children. Mothers set the tone for the home. We don’t want everybody else to be sad and blue for Christmas.

Jesus doesn’t want you sad on His birthday! He wants you to rejoice! Go visit a friend or go visit a nursing home. Get up and get out of the house! If you can’t get out of the house, then keep it festive in your heart! Jesus will not disappoint you. You don’t have to be blue at Christmas time! I think of red as being the color of the blood Jesus shed for us. Instead of thinking about the color “blue” representing sadness – why not let “blue” represent loyalty. Jesus will ALWAYS be a true blue friend to you if you let Him be.

Draw near to Him. He will draw near to you.
Merry Christmas Ya’ll!

2008-12-05T09:02:00.000-08:00

Well, I didn't get the garland chain made yet! Hopefully today! When I do, we will post pictures! Lydia's raring to go with that project!

While you're waiting for the slowpokes to get on with the show, how about a few excerpts from my book "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"

Sylvia’s Potpourri and Aroma Tips

I make this Christmas potpourri and let it simmer on the stove top:

In a medium sauce pan, combine:

4 cups water

2 tsp cinnamon

2 tsp cloves

1 tsp ginger

1 small orange, sliced

1 small apple, sliced

1 handful fresh green pine needles

2 tsp black pepper corns (optional)

Bring to a boil. Turn heat down, simmer all day adding water as needed. This will last about 5 days if you keep on adding water.Another thing you can do: Heat the oven to as low as it will go. Mine goes to 160*F. Sprinkle 2 tsps cinnamon on a baking sheet. Place in the oven. If your oven doesn't go that low, just heat it to 350*F and then turn it off before adding the cinnamon. This makes the whole house smell cinnamon-y.

Puckering Up Under the Mistletoe Peppermint Bark

2 lbs. white almond bark1 1/2 c. crushed peppermint candy

Melt white almond bark on top of double boiler (never add water as it curdles the white almond bark). It takes about 10 minutes to melt thoroughly and will be very thick. Crush either peppermint candy canes or peppermint hard candy in blender until it is powder. Meanwhile, line a cookie sheet with wax paper or spray with nonstick spray. Mix hard crushed candy with melted white almond bark. Spread on lined cookie sheet. Let it dry and chop into pieces.

2008-12-04T07:23:00.001-08:00

Do you need a recipe for that upcoming Christmas party? I've got several perfect recipes for you today! They're taken from my book "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"

Puppy Chow: Not for the dogs

1 lb. chocolate almond bark
3/4 c. peanut butter
8 c. Crispix cereal
1 c. peanuts
3 c. powdered sugar

Melt almond bark and peanut butter together in microwave. Pour over the cereal and peanuts in a large container. Mix until the cereal and peanuts are well coated. Put 1 cup of the powdered sugar in a clean grocery bag and pour in the cereal mixture. Add another cup of the powdered sugar on top. Close the top of the bag and shake. Open the bag and break apart any big clumps. Add the last cup of powdered sugar, shake and break apart again. Looks just like Puppy Chow and tastes wonderful. EVERYBODY loves this recipe…..you just can’t make enough! It makes a wonderful gift packaged in a beautiful, cellophane Christmas sack. Also this is great set out in a holiday dish during parties.

DISHPAN COOKIES:

4 eggs 1 teaspoon salt
2 teasp. vanilla 2 cups oil (I use canola)
2 cups brown sugar 2 cups white sugar
1 1/2 cups quick oats 4 cups rice krispies
1 cup coconut 1 cup chopped pecans (or nut of your choice)
4 cups flour 2 teaspoons soda

Mix eggs, oil, vanilla and sugar until well mixed.
Add flour, soda and salt a little at a time.
Stir in the rice krispies, oats, coconut and nuts. Mix well.
Drop by spoonfulls on greased cookie sheet.

Bake @ 350 degrees 10-14 minutes. I prefer cooking about 10-11 minutes. I like my cookies soft. Foods like cookies and cakes tend to continue cooking while cooling and can become too hard if overcooked. This makes around eight dozen cookies.

Earthquake Cake (makes you quake in your shoes it’s so good!)

1 c. coconut
1 c. chopped nuts
Mix together and spread in bottom of 9 x 13 inch of oblong pan.

1 box Swiss chocolate cake mix
Mix according to directions and then pour over coconut and nuts.

Beat together:
1 (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened1 stick butter
3 c. confectioners' sugar (powdered)

Mix well. Spoon over cake mix. DO NOT STIR INTO CAKE MIX. It will cook into your cake to make a filling. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. The top of the cake will not be smooth. It will crack open and be lumpy looking like an earthquake.

To Grandmother’s We Go for Dressing

I cook one baking hen on top of stove in lots of water. I debone the hen. I keep the broth for my dressing. You can use a fryer, but the baking hen broth is richer.
I use 1 package peppridge farm stuffing mix and 1/2 package of peppridge farm corn bread stuffing mix.
To that I add one pone cornbread. I add some salt, some pepper and some sage. (This can be added after adding the broth if you would like) add 4--5 eggs (or more--mixed well--the whites and yolk).
I cook 2 cups chopped celery and 1 cup chopped onion in 1 1/2 stick margarine. Simmering until..... I then add that to the dressing mix above. I pour the chicken broth over the dressing mix and mix real well. I add 1 to 1 1/2 cans of chopped water chestnuts and the deboned hen. Then bake at 350 to 400 degrees until done.

Aunt Kathy’s Potato Casserole

6 lg. potatoes
1 sm. carton sour cream
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 c. diced onions
1/2 stick butter
1 c. grated cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Boil potatoes and drain. Slightly brown onion in butter. Mix drained potatoes with onion in butter and the rest of the ingredients. Bake 30 minutes on 350 degrees.

Aunt Kathy’s Corn Casserole

1 can regular corn 1 can cream corn
2 TBS flour onion
½ stick butter 1 egg
¼ cup sugar salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Mix both cans of corn in casserole dish (juice & all). Add flour. Saute diced onion (as much as you want) in butter; then put in corn. Mix egg & put into corn. Put sugar, pepper and dash of salt into corn. Bake at 350*F till crusty around the edges about 1 ¼ - 1 ½ hours. If you double this recipe use 3 eggs instead of 2.

2008-12-04T07:09:00.000-08:00

Do you have plans today?

It is a wet, misty morning here in south Louisiana.

I'm not sure what the weather forecast is for the rest of the day.

But inside the house it's warm and sunny!!

Our Christmas tree lights are on and twinkling away.

It's snug and cozy in our home this morning!

Remember making the green and red Christmas garland in 2nd grade all those years ago? This is so easy and fun to make with your children.

All you need is red and green construction paper, tape or glue, and some scissors.

Take your red and green construction paper and cut into strips that are three to four inches long and one-half inch wide.
Form a circle with a red strip and glue/tape the ends together.
Next take a green strip and loop it through the first circle, again gluing/taping the ends together.
Do it again using a red strip this time. Then, just alternate between the colors until your garland is long enough to use on your Christmas tree! This looks very festive and old fashioned on your tree. It’s so simple, fun, and easy to do. Oh yeah, easy clean up to boot!

We will do this later on with Nathan (our 2 year old). I hope to get pictures to add here to the blog after the project is complete!

Those cold wintry mornings!

2008-12-03T06:13:00.000-08:00

What's for breakfast on these cold, wintry mornings? You don't want to send your precious husband to work on an empty stomach do you?

What about those kids? Are they having to wait outside for the schoolbus to pick them up with cold winds blowing?

Do you have overnight guests for the Holidays? This is a brilliant breakfast idea to serve them too!

Nanny’s Breakfast Casserole

White bread ( 6 slices)

6 to 7 eggs
Butter

1 pint half & half
1 lb sausage

4 to 5 shakes of dry mustard
2 to 3 cups grated cheese

Pam the bottom of a 9X13 casserole dish. Put thin slices of butter on bread slices and place them in the bottom of baking dish. Brown the sausage, drain the grease, and spread on top of the bread slices. Sprinkle cheese over the sausage. In a mixing bowl, mix the eggs,the half and half and the dry mustard. (Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper if you like). Pour the egg mixture over the top of the cheese. Cover and place in the refrigerater overnight. In the morning, preheat oven to 350 degrees and cook for 45 minutes, uncovered.

This is such a good, filling breakfast!

What I would suggest doing is this. Put the casserole together the evening before. Then, when you wake up the next morning, preheat the oven before you wake everybody and then slide that casserole in!

Then get everybody up and going. While they're preparing for the day, the casserole will be cooking!

Voila! A nice hot breakfast before taking on the day!

I have the most wonderful recipe for you today!

2008-12-01T05:42:00.000-08:00

I love to try new recipes! Do you?
What are some of your favorite recipes you like the best?
Did you get them from your grandma? Maybe your Aunt Sue.

Do you like egg nog? If so, you're in for a treat!

This recipe comes from my dear friend Sylvia in TN! You absolutely must try this.

Egg Nog Cake - Also known as Egg Nog Quick Bread

2 eggs beaten
1 cup eggnog
2 teaspoons rum extract
1 cup white sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup butter softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 3 oz box instant French Vanilla pudding mix or regular vanilla pudding mix
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Preheat oven 350*F Grease bottom only of a 9x5 inch loaf pan.Blend together the eggs, eggnog, rum extract, vanilla extract, sugar and butter.Sift together the baking powder, salt, pudding mix and nutmeg.
Add to the eggnog mixture and stir just enough to moisten; pour into prepared pan.Bake bread for 40-0 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then turn out.Cool completely and wrap well in plastic wrap.

Warning - This cake probably has about 4000000 calories per slice but it is soooooo good.

2008-11-28T07:27:00.001-08:00

I hope you each had a wonderful Thanksgiving yesterday.

Our family had a wonderful day together!

Now, what are you going to do with that turkey carcass? Did you save it or throw it away?

I hope you refrigerated your carcass.

Here's what you can do with it!

Take your carcass and put it down in a big pot. Cover carcass with water. (If you have one of those big Nesco roasters you could just put it in there for supper tonight)

Now add about 4 chicken boullion cubes.

Chop up some onions, carrots and celery and put in pot. Now add about half a package of egg noodles. If you have some leftover turkey meat, add some of it too.

Add some ground sage and poultry seasoning. I never measure. I just pour it all in!

Let it cook until the veggies are tender and the noodles are done.

This is great served with cornbread or crackers!

Happenings and Happiness!

2008-11-26T16:28:00.000-08:00

The following photos were taken today while we were preparing for tomorrow's big day!
I will do my best to describe each photo!

The first photo is Nathan digging into my spices cubbies! He was taking them out and putting them back in...waiting for me to say, "Why thank you Nathan! What a big helper you are!"

This is Destiny! She's our number 3 child in the family line up! Almost 14 years old! Here's Destiny helping me make a few sweet treats. In this photo she is dipping peanut butter crackers (made like little peanut butter cracker sandwiches) and dipping them in chocolate almond bark. There are only about 4 left at this very moment!!

This is my baby Nathan and me after we had completed his turkey craft project today! To be honest, I am still learning how this blog thing works. So, the following pictures are out of order in how they actually happened today!

Hands and feet turkey!

Someone really, really likes markers and construction paper!

My helper Lydia and Nathan! Nathan now knows that if we're holding a camera the flash will be bright. That's why he's closing his eyes. In almost every picture!

The Little Man!

My major helper!

Nathan waiting for the flash on the camera to go off..

Fun paper!!!

Today has been a fun day at our house!!

I hope you've enjoyed our pictures from the day!

2008-11-26T05:25:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is our big day isn't it! So today, while my turkey is finishing thawing, I have a few plans I want to carry out!

I am going to make my cornbread today and put my dressing together. I want it to sit overnight in the fridge so the flavors can "marry". I can't wait to eat that dressing! It's going to be soooo good!

Next, I want to make a little craft with Nathan. A turkey using construction paper and outlining his hands and feet. (Check back later for pictures of our family having fun together!)

Here's the link: http://www.amazingmoms.com/htm/thanksgiving_craft_hands_feet_turkey.htm

I hope you do something special with your young person this Thanksgiving week.

Here are some links to get ideas from so you can create a Thanksgiving memory with the young person in your life!

http://www.winmarkcom.com/kidscrafts.htm

http://www.talkingchild.com/craftsconstruction.aspx

http://www.sproutforparents.com/sprout/ParentsPlace/article_detail.aspx?id=391f96d6-492a-43e2-9025-9b3f00a9e159

http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/thanksgiving/thankfulwreath/

http://www.enchantedlearning.com/books/holiday/thanksgiving/

http://homeparents.about.com/cs/familycrafts/a/headband.htm

http://www.dcrafts.com/kidscraftsp1.htm

http://crafts.kaboose.com/bouquet-of-thanks.html

Thanksgiving Coloring Pages Links

http://holidays.kaboose.com/thanks-color.html

http://www.coloringpages.net/thanksgiving.html

http://www.dltk-holidays.com/thanksgiving/riddles/index.htm

http://www.coloring.ws/turkeys1.htm

http://www.coloring.ws/thanksgiving.html

http://www.first-school.ws/theme/cp_h_thanksgiving.htm

http://www.preschoolcoloringbook.com/color/cpthanksgiving.shtml

http://www.crayola.com/free-coloring-pages/celebrate/thanksgiving/

http://coloringbookfun.com/thanks/

I hope those links will help you entertain your kids who are out of school this week!

Hope you all have a very fun day today!!

2008-11-25T06:29:00.000-08:00

Today is Tuesday! The Tuesday before Thanksgiving! Are you ready yet? If not, today is the day to get ready!

Do you have your turkey and ham defrosting yet? If not, here's what you do. Take the wrapping off of the frozen bird. Now get a pan big enough to hold said bird.

Put the turkey into the pan and add 2 gallons of water. My friend Sylvia has a lovely brine for her turkey. You can read about that here: http://christianhomekeeper.com/2008/11/24/how-to-brine-a-turkey/

Anything Sylvia does, I can highly recommend!

Get a notebook out too. Let's make a list of things you will need for your Thanksgiving feast.

First, plan out your menu. Here's what my menu looks like.

Thanksgiving Menu

turkey rolls tea and sodas cranberry sauce

ham green bean casserole pumpkin pie chocolate cookies

dressing mashed potatoes cherry cheesecake chocolate chip cookies

Now from your menu, you can compile your shopping list.

I already have my ham and turkey in the refrigerator thawing. So, that's taken care of.

For the dressing I will need cornbread, chicken broth, onions, poultry seasoning, sage, a little garlic, and a can of cream of mushroom soup.

That's how I make out my shopping lists. I look at the menu, check my kitchen cabinets, and compile the list. I do that for each dish on the menu. It makes shopping easier knowing exactly what I need. Just don't forget the list when you go to the store!!

Would you like the recipes from my menu? I am going to post them.

Regarding how you prepare your turkey - read what Sylvia recommends doing: http://christianhomekeeper.com/2008/11/24/tips-for-a-perfect-turkey/

As for your ham, do you like honey glazed? http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Honey-Glazed-Ham/Detail.aspx

We like our ham plain. I know, I know! We're boring!

You can go to a search engine on your computer and type in "glazed ham recipes" for different ways to prepare your ham. I simply read the lable and go by the company's cooking recommendations. We love our ham!!

My Dressing.

We love Thanksgiving dressing. We just can't ever get enough!! We never tire of the leftovers either! Here's how I make it.

I make 2-3 pans of cornbread. I do not use Jiffy because it is too sweet. I just use regular cornbread mix. Bake it according to directions on package.

Next, I use non-stick cooking spray in the pan I'm going to be using. Set it to the side.

Get a huge bowl. Crumble your baked cornbread into your huge bowl. Now add your chopped onion, poultry seasoning, sage (I've never measured that out! I just add until it tastes right!), minced garlic (not a whole lot), cream of mushroom soup. Then, I begin adding the broth a little at a time until the mixture is "soupy". Remember, you can always "add to it" but can't "take any away"!

Slide your dressing into a preheated 350*F and bake for 45 minutes to an hour.

My mouth is watering just thinking about having this on Thanksgiving Day!!

As far as rolls go, this year we might just buy the brown and serve rolls! It's a matter of time!

Next is green bean casserole. My precious husband LOVES green bean casserole!! I might have to double the batch just for him!

Good Gracious Green Bean Casserole!

2 cans green beans – drain onion
1 regular size can Cream of Mushroom soup salt
1 can French Fried Onions pepper
1 tsp. soy

Preheat oven to 350*F. Heat beans and onion in medium saucepan on stove top. Remove from heat. Add soup and soy, a few French fried onions. ( Save some to sprinkle on the top), salt, and pepper. Stir well. Put in casserole dish, sprinkle onion on top and bake for 20-30 minutes.

Marvelously Delicious Mashed Taters Ma!!

I use 2 potatoes per person. Wash and peel and chop.

Put into pan and boil til tender.

Drain water.

Next, add about 2 tbsp of butter per 2 potatoes.

Add about 1tbsp of salt.

Using a mixer, begin mixing and adding a little milk at a time. You want that creamy look and feel to your potatoes. Now add about a tbsp of pepper.

Mix well.

Serve hot!!

My boys love those mashed potatoes! They really are good.

Pretty Popular Pumpkin Pie (if you're from the south you say "punkin")

¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon of salt
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
2 large eggs
1 can (15 oz) Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 unbaked 9 inch deep-dish pie shell
Cool Whip

Mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in small bowl. Beat eggs in large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.
Pour into the pie shell.
Bake in preheated 435*F oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350*F and bake for 40 – 50 minutes. When you serve your pie, be sure and top it with some Cool Whip.

My husband could eat the Cool Whip straight from the container!

Do you like cheesecake? How about cheesecake without all the fuss? You're going to LOVE this cheesecake recipe!

Cherry CheeseCake (this is so easy!!)

2 graham cracker crusts
2 8 oz. blocks of cream cheese, softened
3 cups of powdered sugar
1 large container of Cool Whip
Blueberry or cherry pie filling for topping

Blend powdered sugar with softened cream cheese.
Stir till completely blended. Add the 3 cups of powdered sugar and mix till well blended.
Now add complete container of Cool Whip. Mix thoroughly.
Pour into the 2 graham cracker crusts. Top with pie filling of your choice.
Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Aunt Kathy’s Yummy No Bake Cookies

2 Cups sugar 1/3 cup cocoa
½ cup milk 1 tsp. vanilla
1 stick margarine 3 large TBS peanut butter
2 Cups oats

Mix together sugar, milk, & margarine in a medium pan. Boil 4 minutes. Remove from heat and put oats, cocoa, vanilla, & peanut butter in with heated mixture. Mix by hand and quickly drop tablespoons of candy on to wax paper. Let cool.
These are so good!!

My precious sister Shannon, cannot eat milk chocolate due to health issues. So I usually make her white chocolate chip cookies. You can use white chocolate chips or regular chocolate chips for this recipe.

You Choose the Chips Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 1/4 c. all purpose flour (sifted)1 tsp. baking soda1 tsp. salt1 c.(2 sticks) butter3/4 c.granulated sugar3/4 c.packed brown sugar1 tsp. vanilla extract2 large eggs2 c.(12oz.) pkg. white chocolate morsels

PREHEAT oven to 375 degrees F.
COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla in larger bowl and mix until creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels.

Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.
BAKE for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to stand for 2 minutes.
For regular chocolate chip cookies, instead of white chocolate just use the regular chocolate chips!

I sure hope you enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner! If you use any of my recipes please let me know!!

Happy Thanksgiving everybody!!!

Poinsettias

2008-11-21T05:32:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love poinsettias at Christmas time?

I know I do. They seem to just say "Christmas is here!"

And how many of you receive those plants as gifts? Or do you help take care of the ones that seem to show up across the front of your church each Christmas?

But how do you care for those beautiful plants? How long will poinsettias last?

Are they a high maintenance plant?

Here are a few tips on caring for poinsettias.

When you get your poinsettia, place it near a window. Make sure it has plenty of sun. But don't let the plant "touch" the window as this may "injure" your plant.

Avoid putting your plant in a "hot or cold drafty" area as this may cause the leaves to fall off prematurely.

Examine the soil daily, and when the surface is dry to the touch, water the soil until it runs freely out the drainage hole in the container.

A wilted plant may drop its leaves prematurely, so check the soil frequently.

I also found this article about poinsettias being poinsonous!

The Poinsettia is NOT Poisonous
The widespread belief that poinsettias are poisonous is a misconception. The scientific evidence demonstrating the poinsettia's safety is ample and well documented.
Studies conducted by The Ohio State University in cooperation with the Society of American Florists concluded that no toxicity was evident at experimental ingestion levels far exceeding those likely to occur in a home environment. In fact, the POISINDEX Information Service, the primary information resource used by most poison control centers, states that a 50-pound child would have to ingest over 500 poinsettia bracts to surpass experimental doses. Yet even at this high level, no toxicity was demonstrated.
As with all ornamental plants, poinsettias are not intended for human or animal consumption, and certain individuals may experience an allergic reaction to poinsettias. However, the poinsettia has been demonstrated to be a safe plant. In fact, in 1992, the poinsettia was included on the list of houseplants most helpful in removing pollutants from indoor air. So, not only is the poinsettia a safe and beautiful addition to your holiday decor, it can even help keep your indoor air clean!

This link has many tips and hints on caring for your Christmas poinsettia. http://www.ecke.com/html/h_corp/corp_pntcare.html

Here are a few more helpful links.

http://www.allfreecrafts.com/christmas/poinsettia-care.shtml

http://www.gardenersnet.com/flower/poinset.htm

http://www.extension.umn.edu/yardandgarden/ygbriefs/h102poinsettia.html

http://gardening.about.com/od/winterinthegarden/a/Poinsettia.htm

http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/poinsettia/care.html

http://cecalaveras.ucdavis.edu/files/31929.pdf

I hope you'll find some useful and helpful information in the above links.

If you don't think you can keep a real poinsettia alive, then do like I do. Buy the fake ones!! That's what I use to decorate my Christmas tree with!

You can use poinsettias to decorate with around your church, office or home!

I've seen poinsettias across the fronts of stages in churches and they give off a glorious affect!

Poinsettias seem to just give that little touch of Christmas cheer in your office. If you have a poinsettia in your office you're saying "Christmas is celebrated here!" Put a small one at one side of your desk or even over by the bookshelf.

Or get several potted poinsettia plants and put them across the front of your desk on the floor. (Just back up any other chairs so they don't accidently get knocked over).

Decorating your home using poinsettias - wow! The ideas are endless! You can use them everywhere. I use faux flowers all through my Christmas tree.

One year I had the most gorgeous Christmas tree using pink poinsettias. I used white lights, lace, off white lace, and of course the pink poinsettias! I had a beautiful star on top of that tree with white lights too. It was absolutely breathtaking!

You can also use potted poinsettias around the base of your tree instead of a tree skirt.

You can put your potted poinsettias on the steps of your staircase.

Use poinsettias as a centerpiece on your festive Christmas table for dinner.

Instead of a bow on that gift, why not use a faux poinsettia?

You can also use faux poinsettias to fill the "holes" in your Christmas tree. If you're looking at your tree and there is an empty spot - just put a poinsettia in the empty spot! You'll be amazed what a poinsettia can do for your tree!

There are so many ways you can use poinsettias!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas everybody!!

2008-11-21T05:27:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is less than a week away now!

Are you ready for all that company?!

If you're not ready then you need my book "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another!" Remember, when you purchase that book, you also get a free ebook for children "Oh What a Night It Must've Been!"

http://www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

This handbook is all you'll ever need for surviving the Holidays!!

Stop by and get your copy now!

Did you feel the colder air this morning?

2008-11-17T11:51:00.000-08:00

Did you feel that colder air this morning?

When we woke up, there was frost on the roof tops and on top of our vehicle!

I guess we could call that "Louisiana Snow"!! It's rather exciting to me.

Feeling those colder temps definitely help put me in the Christmas mood!

I loaded up the coffee pot with hot water for instand cappucino all day long!

It was so cozy in my house and it felt so good! Just to warm up from the inside out!

I have some wonderful recipes for cold weather in my new book "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"!

Don't forget - when you purchase "Super Holiday Ideas" you get the newest ebook FREE!!

"Oh What a Night It Must've Been" a Christmas ebook to read to your toddlers! They will love the beautiful pictures of Baby Jesus and all the animals! This is a "must have" book!

Merry Christmas!!

Are you listening to Christmas music yet?

2008-11-17T11:46:00.000-08:00

Are you listening to Christmas music yet?

Here is a link to Christmas music my children and I listen to everyday!

http://music.aol.com/radioguide/christmas-music

http://www.toastedrav.com/section/radio

http://www.merrychristmasradio.com/

A NEW BOOK!!!

2008-11-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

I've just completed my first ebook for children!

When you purchase "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another" you will receive "Oh What a Night It Must've Been" FREE!!!

It's a wonderful book about the birth of Jesus!

It has a lot of fun graphics too!!

This is a "buy one get one free" deal!!

You can get your's right here right now! http://www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

Are you ready for the big reveal?

2008-11-12T08:18:00.000-08:00

It will be soon!!! Check back this afternoon!!! WooHOot!!!

Something exciting is about to happen here!

2008-11-11T09:30:00.001-08:00

Be sure to check back soon for a special gift!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Terrific Tuesday!

2008-11-11T06:37:00.000-08:00

It is Terrific Tuesday and I have the most tastiest fruit dip recipe (straight from my book).

My kids love this dip. It's sooooo easy and very yummy!

Creamy Fruity Dip

1 box of brown sugar (dark or light)
1 8 oz. box cream cheese, softened

Mix until thoroughly blended together. Serve with apple slices and fruit of any kind.

You have no idea how wonderful this dip is! You got to try it!

Are you preparing for Thanksgiving and Christmas yet?

2008-11-10T07:06:00.000-08:00

Are you preparing for Thanksgiving and Christmas yet?
Are you expecting a house FULL of company?

Maybe you only have your small family for the Holidays.

Whatever your situation you will love my new book "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"!

This book is for those of us who don't know where to even start preparing for the festivities and all!

Get it now: http://www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

I am participating in an extremely FUN Recipe exchange!!

2008-11-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

I have never participated in a recipe exchange before. Well, online that is!

Here is the link to the Recipe Exchange!!

http://overwhelmedwithjoy.blogspot.com/

I am so excited (as usual)!!

The following recipes are included in my new ebook "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"!!

www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

Now for the recipes!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Infamous Green Bean Casserole

2 cans green beans – drain onion
1 regular size can Cream of Mushroom soup salt
1 can French Fried Onions pepper
1 tsp. soy

Preheat oven to 350*F. Heat beans and onion in medium saucepan on stove top. Remove from heat. Add soup and soy, a few French fried onions. ( Save some to sprinkle on the top), salt, and pepper. Stir well. Put in casserole dish, sprinkle onion on top and bake for 20-30 minutes. Serve with Thanksgiving AND Christmas dinner…awesome!

Aunt Kathy’s Yummy No Bake Cookies

2 Cups sugar 1/3 cup cocoa
½ cup milk 1 tsp. vanilla
1 stick margarine 3 large TBS peanut butter
2 Cups oats

Mix together sugar, milk, & margarine in a medium pan. Boil 4 minutes. Remove from heat and put oats, cocoa, vanilla, & peanut butter in with heated mixture. Mix by hand and quickly drop tablespoons of candy on to wax paper. Let cool.
These are so good!!

Creamy Fruity Dip

1 box of brown sugar (dark or light)
1 8 oz. box cream cheese, softened

Mix until thoroughly blended together. Serve with apple slices and fruit of any kind.

A Holiday Celebration and a Give A Way!!

2008-11-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

What better way to kick-start Thanksgiving and Christmas than with a Blog Give Away!! Those are so much fun!! Here's one you might be interested in.
I absolutely love the name of this blog. "Overwhelmed with Joy". Are you overwhelmed with joy this Holiday?
If not, maybe this will help!

http://overwhelmedwithjoy.blogspot.com/

I know I could definitely use some new recipes for my Holiday tables this year!
I hope you go and sign up!

2008-11-04T08:46:00.000-08:00

Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another

Table of Contents

Family and Traditions………………………………………….2
Recipes from My Family to Yours……………………….6
The Holiday Craft Studio……………………………………19
Easy Holiday Spruce Ups…………………………………….21
Happy Birthday Jesus………………………………………….36
A Few Little Tips………………………………………………...37
The Christmas Craft Express………………………….....40
Merry Christmas Coloring Pages………………………….51
Tantalizing Those Taste Buds Recipes.............54
Blue Christmas......................................74
Cheery Christmas Fun Links……………………………….77
Fantastical Gift Ideas………………………………………….79
Links on How to Wrap Gifts……………………………….90
Christmas Sounds of the Season ……………………….91
A Long Winter’s Night…………………………………………92

www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

Link to "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"

2008-11-04T07:20:00.000-08:00

Are you vintage or modern?

I am definitely more of an antique/vintage type of person. I like modern technology and inventions (thank you for the telephone, television, computers, and internet!).

But there's just something nostalgic about a vintage Christmas to me!

Hope you enjoy my new ebook.

Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another

www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

This book has everything in it for the Holidays - right at your fingertips!

A Very Fun Ebook!

2008-11-04T07:12:00.000-08:00

My ebook was so much fun to write! It has a story or two about my family as well as our family's recipes and crafts. There's not one recipe or craft in that book that we haven't done!
I can whole-heartedly recommend those recipes. AS can the MEN in our family!

Here's a recipe from my new book "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"

2008-11-03T12:06:00.000-08:00

I love to cook and bake during the Holidays! It makes the whole house smell divine! So, I'd like to give you a recipe or two from my book. ENJOY!!!

Spinach Casserole ( I think I’m the only one who loves this stuff in our family…so I don’t make it very often.. It is SO good!!! You MUST try this!)

2 pkgs. Chopped spinach, cooked and drained
1 large onion
1 stick butter
1 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese
Salt, pepper, and garlic to taste
Parmeson Cheese

Saute’ onion in butter; combine other ingredients except Parmeson cheese and stir until cream cheese is melted. Pour into baking dish and sprinkle with Parmeson cheese. Bake at 350*F until edges bubble.

Cherry CheeseCake (this is so easy!!)
2 graham cracker crusts
2 8 oz. blocks of cream cheese, softened
3 cups of powdered sugar
1 large container of Cool Whip
Blueberry or cherry pie filling for topping

Blend powdered sugar with softened cream cheese.
Stir till completely blended. Add the 3 cups of powdered sugar and mix till well blended.
Now add complete container of Cool Whip. Mix thoroughly.
Pour into the 2 graham cracker crusts. Top with pie filling of your choice.
Refrigerate overnight before serving.

If you enjoyed these recipes, you'll enjoy even more in the book "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"! You've GOT to get this book!

Please follow the link below for more information.

http://www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

Here's an excerpt from my book...

2008-11-03T09:48:00.000-08:00

We always have turkey, cornbread dressing, and we MUST have cranberry sauce! Our families are cranberry sauce connoisseurs! One Thanksgiving my mother forgot the cranberry sauce! We had to eat Thanksgiving dinner with NO cranberry sauce!! Oh the agony!! When we gathered together again that year for our annual Christmas dinner – every member of the family brought cranberry sauce!! We had more than plenty for that dinner! Nobody from that time on has forgotten the cranberry sauce! We like our cranberry sauce.

A Glorious Book Review..I just had to tell all my friends!

2008-11-03T06:44:00.000-08:00

http://www.cindystamps.blogspot.com/

Cindy makes some of the most beautiful, hand-stamped cards I've ever seen.
I love her Christmas cards. I encourage you to stop by her site and purchase some of her cards. They'd be lovely to send out or give several as a gift!

She also read and has posted a book review of my book!
http://www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

Merry Christmas to all!

Welcome to The Holiday Barn

2008-11-03T06:01:00.000-08:00

Welcome to The Holiday Barn.
I am into "all things Christmas"! There's nothing like the Holidays to warm you from the inside outside!
That's why I think you'll just love my new book, "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"!

It's November 1st!

2008-11-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

Christmas is just around the corner for sure now!!
Do you need some wonderful cleaning tips or even gift ideas?
Then you will love my new book "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"!!!
After you read it, please recommend it to a friend!!

Merry Christmas!!

What are you doing this weekend?

2008-10-31T12:28:00.000-07:00

What are you doing this weekend?
We are going to attend a Hallelujah Night our church is sponsoring.
Then tomorrow I hope to make some of the recipes out of my new book. I need the practice! Our tastebuds need to practice tasting yummy foods!!

Tomorrow will be the first day of November! It's time to begin thinking "Thanksgiving" and "Christmas"!! My most favorite times of the year!!

I have some fantastic recipes in my new book "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"

http://www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

Please read it and let me know what you think!!

Happy Thanksgiving

and

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Are you interested?

2008-10-30T08:07:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in trying new things? How about if those "things" aren't too hard?

Would you try them if the end result was what you were hoping for?

Then you're going to love my new book, SUPER HOLIDAY IDEAS: From One Mother to Another!! It's full of recipes that are easy to follow. There's also a section of recipes for you to make with the kids. There are all kinds of unique, tasty treats to make! Leave some for Santa too!!

www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

Do you enjoy your children during the Holidays??

2008-10-29T16:29:00.000-07:00

Do you enjoy your children during the Holidays?
Are you scrambling around trying to find activities and "at home" things to do with your kids?
Is so, this book is for you: Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another
It's full of fun recipes to make with your kids and also really neat and cool crafts!
http://www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another

2008-10-29T10:20:00.001-07:00

Click this link for the new book!

http://www.etswebmarketing.com/index.html

Happy Reading Everybody!!

Merry Christmas Yall!!

2008-10-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas Yall!

Are you ready for the upcoming Holidays?

I am preparing by getting my home ready and all spruced up, as well as making menus, and planning where I'm going to put up my Christmas tree!

With 2 year old Nathan running around, it is loads of fun! I love having a little one during the Holidays! Kids make everything fun.

We have loads of crafts and recipes to make during the Holidays too. I can't wait to take pictures of us doing these things together!

We will be sure and post the pictures here on this blog!

You can also get the craft directions, recipes, etc in the ebook "Super Holiday Ideas: From One Mother to Another"!!

Merry Christmas Yall!!!!!!