tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36424117014435013032024-03-27T05:44:11.131-05:00Effortlessly Saving One Recipe at a TimeMy family's compilation of tips and recipesEricahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.comBlogger242125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-90154064514985108142011-01-18T08:08:00.001-06:002011-01-18T08:08:11.403-06:00January 2011 Menu<span xmlns=''><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>2 Out <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>3 of<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>4 town<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>5 <a href='http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/recipes/main-courses/wipe-out-hawaiian-joes/'>Hawaiian Joes</a>, Applesauce, green beans<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>6 out of town<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>7 traveling home<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>8 <a href='http://www.ourbestbites.com/2009/01/spinach-and-feta-pasta.html'>Spinach Feta Pasta</a><br /> </span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>9 Sweet-N-Sour Chicken<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>10 Chicken and Gnocchi Soup<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>11 leftovers<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>12 eating with friends<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>13 Soft Tacos<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>14 Chicken & Rice Soup<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>15 Greek Breakfast Casserole<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>16 Sunday's main dish: Loaded Baked Potatoes, BBQ beef, green onions, sour cream & cheese<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>17 Lentil Casserole and Salad<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>18 Italian Chicken & Potatoes<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>19 New Brunswick Stew & Cornbread<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>20 Leftovers or Tacos<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>21 Minestrone Soup<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>22 Day in the Mountains<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>23 Sunday meal undecided<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>24 Fajitas<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>25 Chicken & Noodles over Mashed Potatoes<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>26 leftovers<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>27 Pineapple Crock Pot Chicken<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>28 Homemade Pizza<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>29 Leftovers<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>30 Sunday meal undecided<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>31 Hamburger Stew<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>February<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>1 Garlic Spaghetti & chicken tenders<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>2 leftovers<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>3 Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>4 Pepper Steak Sandwiches<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:VintageTypewriter'>5 Meatloaf</span></p></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-21670441622181137942010-10-11T07:34:00.000-05:002010-10-11T07:34:38.525-05:00Dupree's BBQ SauceSuch an easy BBQ sauce. If I want it spicy I usually add a little tabasco sauce or a little red pepper.<br />
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1/2 c. oil<br />
3/4 c. chopped onion<br />
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Saute slowly until transparent<br />
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3/4 c. ketchup<br />
3/4c. water<br />
3 T. Worcestershire sauce<br />
3 T. Brown Sugar, or more if you want it sweeter<br />
2 T. Mustard<br />
2 t. salt<br />
1/2 t. pepper<br />
1/4-1/3 c. lemon juice<br />
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Saute over low heat until thickened. Run through blender or use immersion blender for a smooth BBQ sauce.Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-40773100698592475002010-10-11T05:53:00.000-05:002010-10-11T05:53:35.448-05:00Buttercream Frosting....metric styleI finally figured out a decent frosting for decorating cakes. There are several things working against us when it comes to making a good frosting, non existent shortening in our part of the world and the powdered sugar is very fine, which leaves your frosting very gritty. This recipe is still a tad on the grainy side, but the best I've ever made. So before I forget here's the recipe:<br />
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Buttercream Frosting<br />
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500 grams good butter<br />
750 grams sifted powdered sugar<br />
1/4 t. salt<br />
1/4 c. buttermilk/ayran/kefir<br />
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Cream butter, until it is a smooth consistency. Slowly add in sifted powdered sugar and mix well. (It will be dry.) Next add salt. Once that is thoroughly combined add the buttermilk and beat until it reaches a good consistency. Add desired food coloring and decorate away.Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-43359910138643563712010-10-08T00:32:00.001-05:002010-10-11T05:53:54.954-05:00Homemade White Cake fit for a BirthdayI am super excited about this new cake recipe. I've always been on the look out for good cake recipes, and when I say good cake recipes I'm talking from scratch. For some strange reason any time anyone sends us a cake mix or brownie mix I inevitably burn it. I have a few theories, but for the time being never request people to send them.<br />
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I knew I wanted a cake that called for buttermilk, because it seemed like these cakes aren't as dry, so after about 20 minutes of searching here is the recipe I settled on. The only tweaking I did was add some vanilla sugar to the flour mixture, since I'm away from my kitchen right now. ***I'm very much missing my kitchen aid mixer. Beating egg whites to a stiff peek is ridiculously hard by hand, maybe by the time we get back home my arm muscles will be a little more toned. <br />
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<a href="http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080107182233AAPNPO7">Bakery Style White Cake</a><br />
1 cup buttermilk <br />
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1 teaspoon baking soda <br />
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2 cups white sugar <br />
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1/2 cup butter, softened <br />
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1/2 cup vegetable oil <br />
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1/2 cup shortening (room temperature) <br />
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4 egg yolks <br />
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1/2 teaspoon almond extract <br />
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2 teaspoons vanilla <br />
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2 cups all-purpose flour <br />
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4 egg whites (room temperature) <br />
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Directions<br />
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Set oven to 325 degrees. Grease three 9-inch round cake pans (if desired line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper). In a bowl combine the buttermilk with baking soda; let stand while preparing the next steps. In a large bowl cream sugar with butter, oil, and shortening until very well combined (sugar granules should not remain). Add in egg yolks, almond extract and vanilla; beat until well combined. Add the buttermilk mixture alternately with the flour into the creamed mixture. In a large glass or stainless steel mixing bowl beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold 1/3 of the whites into the creamed batter until blended, then fold in remaining whites until no streaks remain. Divide the batter between the three pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cakes test done. Cool in pans for 15 minutes then remove to wire racks to cool completely before frostingEricahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-18600628753832346832010-10-06T13:43:00.000-05:002010-10-06T13:43:06.575-05:00Remember Me?I've debated about closing this site for a while, but I simply find myself returning here to find a recipes all too often. Honestly it's been a beautiful thing since we've traveled so much this past year.<br />
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Our lives look completely different than a year ago. We now live in a place where coupons are unheard of, and cooking requires basic ingredients. It takes some creativity to be frugal in how we shop for food and meal plan but I'm slowly getting the hang of it.<br />
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I'm hoping this will be a place to host our family cookbook and you're welcome to have a peek too.Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-62802074599492883122009-10-11T20:31:00.003-05:002009-10-11T20:47:01.143-05:00Hanging it UpIt's time to say goodbye to this sweet little blog. I've enjoyed my time publicly helping my family save money and finding some great deals in our area, but after returning home this afternoon and finding our house burglurized it's time to put my family's saftey first.<br /><br />It's an interesting thing having your house rummaged through. Knowing that other's have seen who you are without even knowing you. It's weird, the uncomfortable kind of weird. I've gone through a wide range of emotions today from being frustrated, angry, sad, even feeling bad for the little punks. It's not a feeling I wish on anyone.<br /><br />What I do know is life isn't about stuff. Even though they took some things that carry alot of memories, I know my greatest gift isn't wrapped up in stuff, it's the life I look forward to after this one. (But it does stink that they did take our computer.)<br /><br />Thank you all for following me on this journey. Feel free to enjoy the archives I hope you'll be blessed by something you'll find.<br /><br /><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;color:#663333;">It's been fun!</span></em></strong><br /><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;color:#663333;">Erica</span></em></strong>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-68324968509810100982009-10-09T08:00:00.000-05:002009-10-09T08:00:09.076-05:00Frugal Family Drive In Fun<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVzxNzrJHEeFn6-2ktLURBxxyreJNfE-8ia6t1Oa_wlWOhwtJyx1JRL-MFdFbQJtcuZAaIyL96WaVCcEoV4EMKuzC2QgRZL8Olur1Z9fWVOFjziayMagTJZC_OFKSH2RiDejyr225VTc/s1600-h/drive+in.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 170px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390247284535426050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVzxNzrJHEeFn6-2ktLURBxxyreJNfE-8ia6t1Oa_wlWOhwtJyx1JRL-MFdFbQJtcuZAaIyL96WaVCcEoV4EMKuzC2QgRZL8Olur1Z9fWVOFjziayMagTJZC_OFKSH2RiDejyr225VTc/s320/drive+in.jpg" /></a><br /><div>I have wanted to go to a Drive In movie ever since I was little. When we moved to Wichita I was thrilled to find out we had a drive in movie theatre, Starlite Drive In Theatre, and I'm so bummed we've have yet to visit. Not only is a fun because it's a drive in but I love that they have two screen options one that is family friendly and the other that is geared for grown ups.</div><br /><div></div><div>Now it wasn't awesome enough just to have a Drive In Theatre in our city but this Friday and Saturday night you can load up the family and watch 3 movies for $5.00 a carload. You can't beat that. Pop your own popcorn before you go, fill up your water bottles, get the kiddos in their pjs and you're in for a super frugal evening at the Drive In.</div><br /><div></div><div>Go here to visit <a href="http://www.starlitefun.com/">Starlite's website</a> to see what's playing and to get directions</div>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-39651373062245441692009-10-08T09:39:00.004-05:002010-10-11T05:54:55.360-05:00Birthday BoysToday is my husband's birthday and Saturday is our little guys birthday. Talk about a birthday week. I love birthdays and love to make a big fuss, unfortunately this year the fuss is going to have to wait. We'll be celebrating my husband's birthday tomorrow night. Complete with Tacos, the real kind & peanut butter pie.<br />
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This recipe was a favorite made by his grandmother growing up. It's easy to throw together and is a crowd pleaser.<br />
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<strong>Grandma Jean's Peanut Butter Pie</strong><br />
<em>For a 9 inch pie</em><br />
1 baked pie crust (you decide what you want to do. I tend to make my own, but store bought crusts work well too.)<br />
1 large box vanilla pie filling<br />
2 c. cold milk<br />
1 container cool whip<br />
1 c. chunky peanut butter<br />
1 c. powdered sugar<br />
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Prepare your pie crust, make sure you prick the bottom of your crust with a fork and bake according to recipe you are using.<br />
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Once this is baked and cooled it's time for the filling. In a small bowl cut powdered sugar into crunchy peanut butter using a pastry blender. You may have to add a little more sugar, you'll want a crumbly consistency. Save 1/4 c. of this peanut butter sugar mixture and set aside. Pour the remaining in the bottom of your pie crust.<br />
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In a new bowl mix 1 large box pudding with 2 c. cold milk, then add 1/2 container of cool whip and mix well. Pour on top of peanut butter crumbs.<br />
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Allow to sit for several hours. Just before serving top with remaining cool whip and sprinkle the peanut butter crumb mixture you set aside. Enjoy! <br />
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For more great recipes check out the <a href="http://grocerycartchallenge.blogspot.com/">Recipe Swap</a> on Friday.<br />
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<strong><em><span style="color: #663333; font-size: 130%;">Erica</span></em></strong>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-64192289271482187382009-10-07T08:00:00.001-05:002009-10-07T08:00:05.085-05:00Dillons Deals 10/7-10-13Wow there are some amazing deals this week at Dillons on staples that you won't want to miss out on. Let me know you see something I missed.<br /><br /><strong><em>Produce</em></strong><br />New Crop Granny Smith, Missouri Jonathan, Red or Golden Delicious .99 lb.<br />10 lb. Kroger Value Russet Potatoes 2.99<br /><br /><strong><em>Meat</em></strong><br />Farmland Whole Boneless Ham 1.39 lb.<br />Boneless Pork Loin 1.99 lb.<br />Pork Butt Roast 1.39 lb.<br />Hillshire Rope or Like Smoked Sausage 2/$6<br />Use 1.00/2 MF<br />Total=$5.00/2<br /><br /><strong><em>Other Grocery Items</em></strong><br />Kroger Brown or Powdered Sugar 1.00<br />5 lb. Kroger Flour 1.00 each<br />Kroger Cheese Bar or Shredded 24 oz. 3.00 each wyb3; 3.50 each wyb 2 3.99 each wyb 1<br />Kroger Cottage Cheese, Sour Cream or Dips 1.00<br />Kroger Vegetable Oil 2.00<br />4 lb. Kroger Sugar 1.88<br />Kroger Butter 2.00<br />Betty Crocker Cake Mix 1.00<br />Kroger or Private selection spices or extracts 25% off<br />7 Up Products .80 each wyb 5<br /><br />Pringles 4/$5<br />Use .50/2 Fat Free Pringles (not sure if these are included)<br />Total=4/$4.00<br /><br />Yoplait Yogurt 20/$10<br />Use three .50/6 MF or IP & .50/6 Cellfire & .50/6 Shortcuts eQ<br />Total=$6.00/20 containers of yogurt plus $2.00 will be donated for Breast Cancer Research<br /><br />Pillsbury Biscuits, Crescents or Rolls 1.77<br />Use .50/2 MF & .50/2 Cellfire eQ & 1.00/2 Shortcuts eQ<br />Total= $1.04/2<br /><br />Kraft Cheese bar or Shredding 5-8 oz or Singles 1.98<br />Use 1.00/1 Kraft Singles (from Dillons Mailer)<br />Total=.98 each<br /><br /><strong><em>Household Products</em></strong><br />Arm & Hammer Laundry Detergent/Fabric Softener, or 2 in 1 Sheets 3.49<br /><br />Kotex Pads, Liners or Tampons 2.50<br />Use 1.00/1 MF or .75/1 MF<br />Total=$1.50<br /><br />Huggies 9.49<br />Use 2.00/1 MF or 3.00/1 MF & 1.00/1 Cellfire eQ<br />& submit for .75 rebate from Caregivers Marketplace<br />Total=$5.49 before rebate $4.74 after rebate<br /><br />Sauve Professionals Hair Care 1.28<br />Use .50/2<br />Total=$1.56/2<br /><br /><strong><em>10 Mega Sale</em></strong><br /><em>Buy 10 products and get $5.00 off your bill. Prices reflect the $5.00 deduction. Limit of 3 $5.00 savings per transaction.</em><br /><br />Healthy Choice or Marie Callender's Entrees 1.88 each<br /><br />Freschetta Pizza 4.49 each<br /><br />Breyers Ice cream or Dove Ice Cream 2.49 each<br />Use .25/1 Unilever eQ Breyers<br /><br />Sara Lee Pies or Cakes 2.99 each<br /><br />Kroger Appetizers 3.49 each<br />Use 1.00/1 SC<br />Total=$1.99<br /><br />Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers 1.49 each<br />Use .50/2 MF or .50/1 IP below<br />Total=.50/1 or 1.98 each<br /><br /><strong><em><span style="color:#663333;">Happy Savings!</span></em></strong><br /><strong><em><span style="color:#663333;">Erica</span></em></strong>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-8877763996910160662009-10-06T21:47:00.004-05:002009-10-06T21:58:50.870-05:00Worth Signing Up forI've always intended to sign up for <a href="http://www.farmlandfoods.com/enews.asp">Farmland coupons</a>, but always forgot. I finally did it a few weeks ago and boy was it worth the 2 minutes it took me. They sent me these beauties. Since farmland sausage was on sale this past week at Dillons for $1.00 I was able to get 8 packages of sausage for FREE! Stop what you're doing and head on over to <a href="http://www.farmlandfoods.com/enews.asp">Farmland</a> and sign up for their coupons.<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389686391304897874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuuxhNAA75UGL1GKXmQRHgaoeAsGhVgHLffWAyDLQJ8PswJkh6L9yGkyDoImmn0f37Z-Z87cNm_tQNqHfBtq9ENZ1MvNfezlFEDDduE1__MjPr4X7y0KLne3xp2HC7rKZautxCpu3J8ls/s320/IMG_1841.jpg" /> <div></div><div>Also I'm a big fan of <a href="http://www.vocalpoint.com/registration.html">Vocalpoint</a>. They send some great coupons usually with one FREE coupons and several high dollar coupons a long with it. I've loved stocking up on cereals using vocalpoint coupons. If your not a member I highly suggest you also take time to <a href="http://www.vocalpoint.com/registration.html">sign up</a> for these. It's worth the energy.</div><div> </div><div>Enjoy these fabulous coupons!</div><div>Erica</div>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-30695156803782455152009-10-02T09:06:00.003-05:002009-10-02T09:46:56.921-05:00Frugal Family Friday-Craft Show & Fall FestivalsAren't you enjoying these beautiful temperatures? I sure am.<br /><br />This weekend is what I've been working like a crazy woman to get ready for and I'm very excited. I would love it if you would join the fun a the Lord of Life Lutheran Church Craft Fair and Fall Festival this Saturday October 3rd. The fun starts at 9 a.m. and ends around 2 p.m. There will be lots of booths full of handmade crafts, including yours truly. Please stop by my booth, I'd love to meet in real life.<br /><br />On top of all the yummy crafts you'll find there will also be games for kiddos as well as a bounce House to get all that energy out. Paint a Pumpkin and eat some yummy food. It's sure to be a great family event and something for everyone.<br /><br />The Lord of Life Lutheran Church is located at 11215 W. 13th. Street North (Between Maize Road & 119th St.)<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">I hope to see you there!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Erica</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-69559448806930990732009-10-01T10:07:00.002-05:002009-10-01T10:36:46.934-05:00Dillons 9/30-10/6Sorry for the delay but I've been sewing my little heart away. I finally finished last night around 2:30 a.m. and am so glad to be done. Now only little stuff left to do for my craft fair this weekend. Praise the LORD!<br /><br />Here are the best deals I see this week at Dillons. Let me know if you see something I missed.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Produce</span><br />1 lb. Driscoll's Strawberries 1.99<br />10 lb. Kroger Value Potatoes 2.99<br />Ripe-N-Ready To Eat Hass Avocados or Red Peppers .99 each<br />New Crop Missouri Jonathan Apples 3 lb. bag 2.19<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Meat</span><br />Fresh Ground Chuck 1.99 lb.<br />Pork Butt Roast 1.39 lb.<br />Farmland Whole Boneless Ham 1.39 lb. ($6.95 each)<br />Boneless Pork Sirloin Chops 1.69 lb.<br />Farmland Roll Or Link Sausage 1.00 each!!!<br />JC Potter Pork Rib-Bits .99 lb.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other Grocery Items</span><br />12 pack Kroger Vegetables and Tomatoes 5.99<br />Bar or Shredded 24 oz. Kroger Cheese 3.99 (better than Aldi)<br />Betty Crocker Cake Mix 1.00<br />Kraft Macaroni & Cheese 2/$1<br />Kroger Cottage Cheese or Sour Cream 1.98<br />7 Up products .80 each wyb 5<br /><br />Pringles 4/$5<br />Use .50/2 Fat Free Pringles (not sure if these are included)<br />Total=4/$4.00<br /><br />Cambell's Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup 2/$1<br />Use .40/4 MF<br />Total= $1.20/4<br /><br />Save $5.00 on Kingsford Match Light Charcoal wyb 3 Coca-Cola 12 packs 3/$12<br />Use 2.00/1 MF Kingsford Match Light<br />Save $7.00 wyb 3 coke 12 packs<br /><br />Totino's Pizza Rolls .99<br />Use .40/2 MF<br />Total=$1.18/2<br /><br />Yoplait Yogurt 20/$10<br />Use three .50/6 MF or IP & .50/6 Cellfire & .50/6 Shortcuts eQ<br />Total=$6.00/20 containers of yogurt plus $2.00 will be donated for Breast Cancer Research<br /><br />Pillsbury Biscuits, Crescents or Rolls 1.77<br />Use .50/2 MF & .50/2 Cellfire eQ & 1.00/2 Shortcuts eQ<br />Total= $1.04/2<br /><br />Kraft Cheese bar or Shredding 5-8 oz or Singles 1.98<br />Use 1.00/1 Kraft Singles (from Dillons Mailer)<br />Total=.98 each<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Happy Savings!</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Erica</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-32212889340983116162009-10-01T09:53:00.003-05:002009-10-01T10:06:28.535-05:00Did you See it?As I was browsing through yesterday's Eagle I spotted a great coupon. On the back of the Sam's Club insert there is a coupon for a FREE ONE DAY MEMBERSHIP expiring October 14th. This a great way to stock up on some basics at a great price without having to pay the membership fee. <br /><br />Wondering what my thoughts are about Sam's? Go <a href="http://effortlesssavings.blogspot.com/2009/03/why-i-love-buying-in-smaller-packages.html">here</a> to learn more. Make sure your read the comments too. Other's had some good thoughts that aren't the same as mine.<br /><br />I'm very thankful I didn't have to beg a friend to buy a few things I was needing. This free membership came at just the right time. I'm looking forward to stocking up on a few things we can't get overseas!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 51);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Erica</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-85664430576795129342009-09-29T10:00:00.001-05:002009-09-29T10:20:57.022-05:00Cloth DiaperingA few years ago I didn't think I would ever consider the idea of using cloth diapers, but I came around. Honestly it was the thought of possibly toilet training early that gave me the motivation to use cloth. From what I've read it's not uncommon for cloth diapered kiddos to train early. It's been a couple of months of using them and it's going great and not at all as bad as I once thought. It's much easier and doesn't take too much longer for diaper changes, I just change him more often.<br /><br />Here are my 2 cents on cloth diapering:<br /><br /><ul><li>Since I have been able to find some great deals on disposable diapers and we often go, go, go on the weekends I made the decision to only use cloth during the week and use disposables during the weekends and at night. I love our little system. It gives me a little laundry break and it's nice not to have to worry about bringing a wet bag everywhere we go. Remember you don't have to do it all the time.</li><li>One thing is for sure is cloth diapering takes some research and let me tell you there is a lot of information out there on cloth diapers.</li><li>At first glance we considered going with the basic prefold diapers. 2 features of prefold diapers drew me in 1. They were the cheapest option and 2. They dried the fastest. After reading a ton about these types of diapers I decided this wasn't the best fit for our little guy, even though it was the cheapest. He's very hard to change and never stops of moving. The thought of trying to use a snappy to close the diaper, and add a diaper cover was a little frightening.</li><li>I looked into All-in-one diapers but someday soon we'll be living in a land without dryers and I wanted something that didn't take a week in the winter to air dry. These are the most expensive and the most convenient, but not for us.</li><li>We went with a fitted diaper I actually found them at a garage sale. I had planned on making my own but I found a huge stack for $50 with about 10 covers of various sizes. AWESOME deal. The diapers we have can be used from birth to potty training and snap together very easily. I did purchase a few Velcro diaper covers because I felt they would be easier to use. I'm very happy with it.<br /></li></ul>The question your all wondering is, "Is it worth it?" This is a question you need to ask yourself. For us the thought of potty training early due to the awareness of what is going on under the diaper is worth the price. If my son trains at 30 months rather than 36 months that is 6 months of diapers I don't have to buy, $120 for 6 months of diapers, not counting the money we are saving using cloth diapers now. Since I found them at a garage sale they were much cheaper than if I had purchased them for full price. Plus we can use them for future kiddos without the extra expense of having purchase them again. I really haven't' seen a huge increase in our bills due to the extra laundry, it may be up a couple of dollars.<br /><br />I'm not miserable using them, which a couple of years ago I thought I would be. It's working for our family. If you're wondering if you want to make the switch I'd highly recommend ordering a few and see how it goes a couple days a week, this way if you hate it you're not out a ton of money. There are various websites that do sell used diapers. (I used to think this was disgusting but then I researched how diapers were washed and sanitized and was okay with it.)<br /><br />I also made my husband install a DIY diaper sprayer (he spent about $25 at Home Depot for all the parts). It's worth the extra expense to not have to touch the contents of the diaper in my opinion. Thankfully those types of diapers are few and far between. I only have to change one of those a day, sometimes two.<br /><br />I'm never going to be one of those moms who are passionate about cloth diapering, but it's working for us and hopefully it will save us some money in the process. I hope this gives you a little insight into the cloth diapering world.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Erica</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-6849270379829792852009-09-28T11:53:00.003-05:002009-09-28T12:02:22.050-05:00Quick and Easy Meals for the week<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdH_zlKLS5ZOmeZ59wvLmy_-ZlNQGBK4CetVjoyrUDLc2qBGifYb4188bv1Q21PLOvWKXfNez-eSbovml4KOUskpmfNDsZeqr_FhKaQbjqwODehrpSco_0KtvSl1gdqRz6LRjvTfgX6Z0/s1600-h/book+menu.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 317px; height: 145px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdH_zlKLS5ZOmeZ59wvLmy_-ZlNQGBK4CetVjoyrUDLc2qBGifYb4188bv1Q21PLOvWKXfNez-eSbovml4KOUskpmfNDsZeqr_FhKaQbjqwODehrpSco_0KtvSl1gdqRz6LRjvTfgX6Z0/s400/book+menu.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386564098271031554" border="0" /></a><br />This Saturday is <a href="http://www.lolwichita.org/events.html">my craft fair</a>!!! I have a long to do list, but It's doable. So our menu is short and sweet this week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday-</span>Pigs in a Blanket, Salad & Steamed Veggies & grapes<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday-</span>BBQ Pork Roast in the Crock pot, Salad, Steamed Veggies & Watermelons<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday-</span>Dinner at Church<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday-</span>Sweet & Sour Pork over Rice, Broccoli & Watermelon<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday-</span>My sweet husband is taking my son out so I can focus.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday-</span>Eating at the <a href="http://www.lolwichita.org/events.html">CRAFT FAIR </a>& pot luck for dinner I'm bringing Spanish Rice & ???? Fruit or Salad<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday-</span>HUBBY'S BIRTHDAY MEAL Fried Tacos, Chips & Salsa, Spanish RiceEricahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-17077238550366339012009-09-25T08:00:00.002-05:002009-09-25T08:00:00.956-05:00Project Kitchen Aid<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pyuxkum6nD4DeS3lrcfBkH1dUK1HS64c3mb8C4YID7JyDrG6ta4bOYV9AdD5uCS53Lbrt8hpwxlMyi7a0_VJUDHRiSJ0z4iCxc2goFzvit_XzqhqZdBiv2LuoxV-NVuVRJDcToOYp8k/s1600-h/project+kitchen+aid.jpg"></a>So I have a little secret for you. Well it's not really a secret anymore, we're moving in December! After spending a year and a half in the states it's time for us to return back overseas. We had really anticipated a move next spring, but more funding came in and we'll be able to return sooner than we expected. We're pretty excited and now I have a to do list longer than I've ever had in my life.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pyuxkum6nD4DeS3lrcfBkH1dUK1HS64c3mb8C4YID7JyDrG6ta4bOYV9AdD5uCS53Lbrt8hpwxlMyi7a0_VJUDHRiSJ0z4iCxc2goFzvit_XzqhqZdBiv2LuoxV-NVuVRJDcToOYp8k/s1600-h/project+kitchen+aid.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 359px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pyuxkum6nD4DeS3lrcfBkH1dUK1HS64c3mb8C4YID7JyDrG6ta4bOYV9AdD5uCS53Lbrt8hpwxlMyi7a0_VJUDHRiSJ0z4iCxc2goFzvit_XzqhqZdBiv2LuoxV-NVuVRJDcToOYp8k/s400/project+kitchen+aid.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385262088474492402" border="0" /></a>There have been a few things that we have been saving up for but just haven't saved enough for all of them. This little beauty is one of them a 220 Volt Kitchen Aid! Since our electricity runs on 220 V we'll have to special order this one, which means they cost about twice as much, yikes. But it's worth it. I'm hoping to do well at my craft fair next weekend, at the<a href="http://www.lolwichita.org/events.html"> Lord of Life Lutheran Church Craft Fair & Fall Festival</a>, and try to make more <a href="http://fromhead2toe.etsy.com/">etsy sales</a>. I'd be happy to custom create something for you. Just email me or convo me at my <a href="http://fromhead2toe.etsy.com/">etsy shop</a>.<br /><br />So now you know why my posts have been a little bit more infrequent. I've been working on a slew of post for the next month so I won't be silent, you'll just have to bear with me. Blogging is too big a part of my life to just up and quit cold turkey. I'm excited to see what the future holds.<br /><br /><em><strong><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Dreaming of my beautiful Kitchen Aid!</span></strong></em><br /><em><strong><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Erica</span></strong></em>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-24744005994765318772009-09-24T13:28:00.003-05:002009-09-24T14:17:13.426-05:00Dillons 9/23-9/29I see some great sales on meat this week at Dillons and the Mix and Match sale is still going on. I hope you find some good deals this week, sorry for posting a day late. Yesterday was a full day. Let me know if I missed something.<br /><br /><strong>Produce</strong><br />3 lb. bag Jonathan Apples 2.19<br />Seedless Watermelon 3.99 each<br />Fall Acorn, butternut or spaghetti squash .99 lb.<br /><br /><strong>Meat</strong><br />Tyson Boneless Skinless Chicken breast fillets 1.99 lb.<br />Boneless Pork Loin in Bag 1.99 lb.<br />Boneless Chuck or Arm Roast 1.99 lb.<br />Pork Butt Roast 1.39 lb. (bone in, in bag)<br />HoneySuckle Whole Bone In Turkey breast 1.49 lb.<br />Pork Cube Steak 1.79 lb.<br /><br /><strong>Other Grocery Items</strong><br />Kroger Cheese 3.99 for 24 oz.<br />Cottage Cheese or Sour Cream 1.88<br /><br />Kroger Delux Ice Cream 1.88<br />Use .75/1 Shortcuts eQ<br />Total=$1.13!<br /><br />Yoplait Yogurt 20/$10<br />Use three .50/6 MF or IP & .50/6 Cellfire & .50/6 Shortcuts eQ<br />Get coupon back for 3.00 off your next purchase wyb 20 (look for a little red and white sign under the yogurt to verify that your store is running this catalina. Our dillons is running this deal)<br />Total=$6.00/20 containers of yogurt plus you'll get $2.00 towards your next purchase ($.30 ea)<br /><br /><strong>Mix & Match 10 Nestle or Kraft Sale</strong><br /><em>Save .50 per item wyb 10 products in sale. You must buy 10 products in a single transaction. Prices here reflect discount being taken assuming that you have purchased 10 products</em><br /><em></em><br />Digiorno pizza 3.97<br />Use 1.00/1 MF<br />Total=$2.97<br /><br />Kraft cheese 1.79<br />Use 1.00/2 MF Kraft singles<br />Total= $1.29/1<br /><br />Hot Pockets 1.49<br />Use .50/1 MF<br />Total= $0 .49<br /><br />Lean cuisine 1.79<br />Use 1.00/5 MF<br />Tota= $1.59 each<br /><br />Oscar Meyer bologna, salami or hot dogs 1.49<br />Use 1.00/2 MF<br />Total=$0.99 each<br /><br />Philadelphia cream cheese .99/1<br />Use 1.oo/2 MF<br />Total= $0.49/1<br /><br />Nabisco snack crackers 1.87<br />Use .75/2 coupon<br />Total=1.37/1<br /><br />Velveeta 3.99<br /><br />Jello Pudding or gelatin .77<br />Use .50/2 MF<br />Total=$0.27/1<br /><br />Planter's peanuts 1.99<br /><br />Nestle Morsels 1.99<br />Use .50/1 MF<br />Total=$0.99!!!<br /><br />Coffee Mate Creamer 2.49<br />Use .50/1 MF<br />Total= $1.49<br /><br />Oreo Cookies 2.49<br /><br />Kraft Salad Dressing 1.49<br /><br /><em>All prices refect coupon doubling. Dillons doubles coupons up to $1.00 in amount.</em><br /><br /><strong><em>Happy Savings!</em></strong><br /><strong><em>Erica</em></strong>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-91791507050349506332009-09-24T08:00:00.001-05:002009-09-24T08:00:07.296-05:00Recipe ReviewI only have a few recipe reviews for you this week, since our life got a little hectic I haven't been in the kitchen as regularly trying new recipes. For the most part all of the recipes I tried were winners.<br /><br /><a href="http://thehappyhousewife.com/pizza-on-the-grill-on-the-table-in-30-minutes-or-less/comment-page-1/#comment-16087">Grilled Pizza</a>! YUM. My husband and I had a blast tag teaming this dish (It really takes a couple of people). It seriously reminded us of Pide, turkish pizza. We loved it. The first batch burned, but then we lessened the length of time we needed to cook them. We were using a charcoal grill and it was very hot, we also weren't able to close the lid as the recipe suggests because we found this led to the pizzas burning.<br /><br />We also used the suggestion other had made about this recipe and placed the shaped dough in the freezer for 10 minutes before putting it on the grill and this helped a lot. it was much easier to work with this way. We seriously had all the pizzas finished in 10 minutes and it made a lot of pizzas (I think around 8). This will certainly be a fun summer dish in our house.<br /><br /><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/recipes/main-courses/kristiee28099s-magically-moist-chicken/">Kristie's Magically Moist Chicken</a> got the approval of both my husband and myself. I really loved this meal because my husband made it, all I did was lay out the recipe. I did forget to mention to my husband that our oven heats up much hotter than normal so it was a little drier than I think it would have been if we would have lowered the heat a bit. But I was impressed, who would have thought of combining mayo and spaghetti sauce? Chicken Breast is very hard for me to keep moist and I like the idea of coating it in something to keep the juices in.<br /><br /><a href="http://amysfinerthings.com/blueberry-overnight-coffeecake/comment-page-1#comment-5937">The Blueberry Overnight Coffecake</a> was a great change in the breakfast pace in our house. I don't think I've made coffeecake for breakfast since our first year of marriage. Since it had blueberries it was a big winner in my son's eyes.<br /><br />There you have it. A big thanks to those who originally posted them. Our family loved trying them and I hope you do too.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Erica</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-78256037687206321912009-09-22T08:00:00.001-05:002009-09-22T08:00:03.527-05:00Clean Dishes when you travel<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMBQUAu4J75cqJaCQIbDxXd8oqGyf1IcZdTVQre1fK9TCL3nRbJ0QJ9L4DFwesn4ZNoe9oNchhSuIkakfZfSuSEZQz_HKLmflkAbW1DL87Se0xz74kLV84KsGXiOpcD0eYHgaI_7PuXU/s1600-h/wfmwbannerKRISTEN.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMBQUAu4J75cqJaCQIbDxXd8oqGyf1IcZdTVQre1fK9TCL3nRbJ0QJ9L4DFwesn4ZNoe9oNchhSuIkakfZfSuSEZQz_HKLmflkAbW1DL87Se0xz74kLV84KsGXiOpcD0eYHgaI_7PuXU/s320/wfmwbannerKRISTEN.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383999784331213922" border="0" /></a>Here's my little secret of how we do dishes while traveling. I squirt a bit of dish soap on a thick paper towel, fold it up and place it in a Ziploc bag. When it's time to wash something I simply grab a paper towel, get it wet and wash away. When I'm finished I simply toss the paper towel away. I've washed too many sippy cups using this technique in airport bathrooms, gas stations, hotel rooms and now hospitals. It's an easy way to avoid having to bring a stack of paper products with you whenever you travel. (Plus it doesn't count as a liquid on airlines) Lighter, greener, traveling <a href="http://www.wearethatfamily.com/">works for me</a>!Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-5359585198418138782009-09-21T13:43:00.003-05:002009-09-21T14:03:04.146-05:00Meal Plan<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDEXB5BABqRPucW-iOIDD2NTkbJxVsHLt0FbQ8wDveWFx-x0Z5L9K4SxxBh4R1umcOhMN5W4yogT3x3v9RUofBsO8rhuBoV01bIUBv9iJt5-LW3idXinBdvRnb6rFkkYrhBq2QlotlrJU/s1600-h/grocery+bag+menu.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 139px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDEXB5BABqRPucW-iOIDD2NTkbJxVsHLt0FbQ8wDveWFx-x0Z5L9K4SxxBh4R1umcOhMN5W4yogT3x3v9RUofBsO8rhuBoV01bIUBv9iJt5-LW3idXinBdvRnb6rFkkYrhBq2QlotlrJU/s320/grocery+bag+menu.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383997620087334194" border="0" /></a><br />It's another odd week for our family, we're in two cities for a few days, but we're making it work.<br /><br />Here's the plan:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday- </span> <a href="http://stolenmomentscooking.blogspot.com/2008/11/chicken-parmesan-fingers-over-garlic.html">Chicken Parmesan Fingers over Garlic Spaghetti</a>, Cooked Carrots & Salad<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday-</span> (Breakfast) <a href="http://amysfinerthings.com/blueberry-overnight-coffeecake/comment-page-1#comment-5937">Blueberry Overnight Coffee Cake</a><br />Veggie Hamburger Soup in the crockpot for my husband & biscuits (take a little with us for dinner)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday- </span> Leftover Soup for hubs (Spaghetti for us)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday-</span>Hubs enjoying dinner with friends (Grilled Cheese & Canned Soup for us)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday-</span>Eating at a football game, I'm assuming it will be burgers.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday-</span>My husband's 10 year reunion!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday- </span>With Family<br /><br />I told you it was a little weird week. I'm looking forward to some normalcy, but from the looks of the next month this might be normal. I hope your meal plan looks better than mine this week. Need some ideas check out Meal Plan Monday's Home over at <a href="www.orgjunkie.com">Org Junkie.</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">Erica</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-83907411392472218422009-09-18T13:24:00.002-05:002009-09-18T13:33:35.255-05:00Being a FamilyAs much as I love doing things together as a family, today I was reminded once again of how important it is just to BE family. This morning as I was cleaning up the morning dishes my son came and set up a little "picnic" in the middle of the kitchen floor. He brought two bowls, two cups and two plastic peach slices. He set everything up, folded his little hands and started naming off the list of people to pray for. I glanced over and his little eyes met mine and then he asked me to sit down, he even said please! So for the next 5 minutes we had a little picnic. It was a precious part of my day and such a great reminder that being a family involves me engaging him in his world. I want to BE more of a family and DO less this weekend. How bout you?<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Enjoying those gifts God has given me!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Erica</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-88154325612458763302009-09-16T19:50:00.002-05:002009-09-16T19:57:06.768-05:00Dillons this weekI planned on posting the Dillons deals this week but then life happened. I am completely overwhelmed right now, my to do list is longer than I'd ever imagine, I'm trying to get so much done while I'm home but I feel like I'm sinking. So instead of spending an hour figuring out the best coupon match ups check out <a href="http://thegroceryweekly.blogspot.com/2009/09/dillons-916-922.html">this site</a>. Most of it is the same, but there are a few variations on meat and produce prices for the Wichita area. The Mega Sale looks the same though, you should be able to stock up on several useful items through this sale. What a blessing!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 102, 51);">Happy Savings!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 102, 51);">Erica</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-78451089761988125312009-09-15T09:00:00.000-05:002009-09-15T10:10:28.682-05:00Catching Those Fruit Flies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIZpV9KCgXfUWanP5N2n57kx1fKYARlQu1aj-Fp_cp7A6LWzDOPAYGXDblhhE6nuEmxnzQIQ54JszPyGGzNKsnB_3xtqSxsuExrrGYXJ23D0hub_8DgoGaVGgnoXNQMcd312oYUKCMak/s1600-h/100_4717.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIZpV9KCgXfUWanP5N2n57kx1fKYARlQu1aj-Fp_cp7A6LWzDOPAYGXDblhhE6nuEmxnzQIQ54JszPyGGzNKsnB_3xtqSxsuExrrGYXJ23D0hub_8DgoGaVGgnoXNQMcd312oYUKCMak/s320/100_4717.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381711409780598162" border="0" /></a><br />In our rush out the door last week I forgot to throw the ripe bananas in the freezer. We were greeted by a swarm of fruit flies when we returned. So I made my fruit fly catcher, here's what you do.<br /><br /><ol><li>Take an empty glass jar, I'm sure plastic would work too, but I've always used glass.</li><li>Create a funnel with a piece of paper and trim it as needed. Place it in the jar and make sure it is a good fit.</li><li>Fill your jar with water till it is about 1 inches from your funnel. Add a little dish soap and a piece of fruit.</li><li>Add you funnel back on and tape it on.</li><li>Sit back and watch how this magic device attracts your fruit flies.<br /></li></ol><br />Beautiful, this <a href="http://www.wearethatfamily.com/">Works for Me Wednesday</a>!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Enjoying a lot less Fruit Flies!</span> <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Erica</span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-10247471804267108672009-09-14T10:05:00.002-05:002009-09-14T10:21:58.160-05:00Back to the KitchenThe last few days we have been enjoying "tasty" microwaveable meals in the waiting room of the hospital. I am very thankful there was a microwave for visitors, it certainly was a blessing. But I think we are all dying for some real food, the kind that the veggies are not rehydrated.<br /><br />Since my dad had his transplant he has been doing very well. We have felt the hand of God working the past few days. He truly has taken our worries away. Since our toddler cannot go into my dad's room we returned back home and I'm very thankful for this little break.<br /><br />This week's menu will reflect a few things I picked up at my parent's house that needed to be eaten before they spoiled. Which include lots of produce!!! I had to change up my original menu a bit, but thankfully don't have many things to pick up this week at the grocery store.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Breakfast:</span><br />Bagels &Fruit<br />English Muffins & Fruit<br />Toast & Fruit<br />Cold Cereal & Fruit<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lunch:</span><br />Leftovers<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dinner:</span><br />Monday-<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Jimmy-Dean-Sausage-Cheese-Balls/detail.aspx">Sausage Cheese Balls</a>, Zucchini, Side Salad & Watermelon<br />Tuesday-Hot Dogs, Coleslaw, Corn on the Cob<br />Wednesday-BBQ cups, Coleslaw, Corn on the Cob<br />Thursday-<a href="http://effortlesssavings.blogspot.com/2009/03/great-make-head-meal.html">Tuna Burgers,</a> Peas, Side Salad<br />Friday-<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/recipes/main-courses/kristiee28099s-magically-moist-chicken/">Kristie's Magically Moist Chicken</a>, side salad & peas<br />Saturday-Wedding<br />Sunday-I have no idea, hopefully I'll have some leftovers around<br /><br />Now I better go tackle that heaping mountain of laundry. For more meal plans check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com">Org Junkie.</a><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 51);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Happy Meal Planning!</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Erica</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3642411701443501303.post-8294772400779321662009-09-09T22:19:00.002-05:002009-09-09T22:23:28.492-05:00It's Go TimeI'll be out of the blogging world until next week. We are headed to the hospital for my father's liver transplant. I'm not feeling nearly as prepared as I would have hoped to right now. I had to make an emergency trip to Target and Dillons but looks like I have enough snacks to make it through the weekend.<br /><br />I better go finish packing my suitcase.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">I'd love it if you could pray for my dad and our family right now!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 51);">Erica</span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11024308319568610796noreply@blogger.com0