Adventures-In-Mommy-Land

Moms That Blog (The Interviews)

2012-01-31T07:00:00.001-05:00

Introducing.....Shelley - she's a stay at home mother of two, who enjoys cooking and trying new recipes. She also loves sharing her love of cooking with her children and they can often be found in the kitchen right by her side as she cooks and shares her fab recipes and that's what makes her a great Mom That Blogs.

Tell us a bit about yourself.....I am a thirty something stay at home mom with two kids - a five and a half year old daughter and a one year old son. My husband and I eloped in Jamaica, which was pretty much the best thing ever. We've been married for almost ten years now. I have an MBA with a concentration in marketing, and I was a Marketing Manager at a Fortune 500 company. And, though I loved that job, nothing compares to being a Mommy. I can't imagine not being there to watch my kids grow and learn. I love to read, and I dabble in all kinds of crafts, though I am much better at beginning projects than at finishing them sometimes. The other thing I love to do is dance. I danced growing up, danced competitively in college, and will bop around to just about any song I hear.

Tell us 3 fun facts we might be surprised to learn about you......Fun facts, huh? Hmm... well, most people are surprised to hear that I was born in Puerto Rico. My birth certificate is in Spanish and everything. I'm an American citizen, but can still count myself as Puerto Rican if I want to!

I am a twin, which fascinates many people, but to me it's just what it is! The funniest part about that, though, is that my parents didn't know they were having twins until my sister (five minutes older) was born. For a while my name was "surprise!" I have been asked so many times "What is it like to be a twin?" but I have no idea what it is like to NOT be a twin, so it is hard for me to give a real answer.

And I have never been to the West coast. As a matter of fact, I have never been further west (within the US) than Atlanta. Crazy, huh?

When did you first start blogging.....I started blogging in January 2010. I actually started my blog specifically to be able to join the Daring Kitchen - an online community that hosts baking and cooking challenges monthly. While a blog is not mandatory for joining, it is generally intended as a food-blogger community. But now the blog is so much more than just the Daring Kitchen, and I love sharing my crazy kitchen adventures with whoever stumbles across the site.

What is your blog about......My blog is a food blog, but one that incorporates my life as a mommy. I like to incorporate my kids in my cooking and baking, and I feel like both they and I gain so much from the shared experience.

Why do you blog......I blog mostly for fun, but also as a creative outlet. I love my kids and my family, but it is nice to have a challenge for myself outside of that, and for me, taking the pictures, writing up the posts and learning new things has really been a fun challenge.

Must read blogs that you visit daily.....Oh man, well, I have so many friends with blogs, and reading their blogs help me feel like I am keeping up with their lives, even when we live far apart and during those hectic times when we can't really call each other that often. And, as I am always looking for new recipes, I am always finding new food blogs. There is just so much out there!

What inspires you.....So many things inspire me.

Food inspires me - we have to eat three times a day, might as well have fun with it, right?

Nature inspires me - I love using fresh ingredients, and, beyond that, just being outside in the sunshine (well, when it's warm!).

And most of all, my kids inspire me. They keep me motivated and always looking for new and fun projects, both in the kitchen and in life.

Do you have a bucket list, name a few things on it......I don't have a bucket list per se, but there are so many things I want to accomplish in life.

I want to travel - see the world and all of the beautiful places there are. I think the best would be to travel to as many tropical islands as possible with my husband. That would be heavenly.

I want to continue learning new things every day. I don't even care what those things are, I just want, when I think about each day as I am getting into bed, to know that I learned something new.

I want to watch my kids grow into happy, productive, proud adults. Obviously I want them to have happy childhoods - it's what I try to provide them with every day! But furthermore, I want them to be strong, independent people who can be confident in themselves and in the fact that their mommy loves them and trusts them.

Do you have any blogging advice that you would like to share......Be yourself on your blog. I know that so many people like to hide themselves in the online world and put forth the image of themselves that they'd like others to believe, but being yourself, online as in real life, is really the best way to be. I think that the most successful bloggers are those who tell it like it is, warts and all, and who know how to laugh at themselves in the process.

To learn more about Shelley and try her super awesome recipes...check out her blog C Mom Cook

You can also like her fan page on facebook.

Tiny Prints Valentine's Day Cards

2012-01-30T23:59:00.000-05:00

Do you remember when you were a child how much fun it was to pick out your valentines?

Did you look for special ones to give to special people?

A secret crush, perhaps?

Do you remember designing and decorating your valentines box?

Did you use an old shoe box?

Did you design something elaborate or just simply wrap your box with paper and put stickers all over it?

Did you scour your valentines looking for clues and hoping to discover you had a secret admirer?

Did you dress up on party day?

Make your own valentines?

Valentine's Day is one of my favorite holidays.

I mean, aside from Christmas and Halloween

I seriously love decorating the house in pink and red hearts.

This year, I was given the opportunity to purchase personalized valentines for the boys from Tiny Prints.

I didn't know that Tiny Prints even sold valentines, did you?
I thought they just did Christmas cards or birth announcements and the like....
but as it turns out, not only do they sell invitations and stationary, they sell

Valentine Cards
and
Valentines Day Greeting Cards

They have so many cute choices to choose from too.

Boy or Girl

You can personalize them with your child's name and/or picture.

Nathan is loving these dinosaur ones

Reptile Rapture

and these

Silly Monster ones

Silly Surprise

Nicholas likes these Rock and Roll ones

Rock Ballad

and these

Pirate ones

Pirate Crew

Whichever one they choose, I'm sure they will be thrilled when that little box comes addressed to them in the mail....almost as much as passing their valentines out to their classmates and friends.

Please take a moment to follow Tiny Prints on Twitter
Like Tiny Prints on Facebook
and if you are on Pinterest, you can follow Tiny Prints boards there as well.

*Disclosure: I will be receiving free valentines day cards from Tiny Prints for sharing this with all of you.

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#16)

2012-01-30T10:03:00.001-05:00

Welcome to week #16 of Hey Mom, Look What I Did!!!

This week Nathan and I worked on his "100 Day of School" project.

We took 2 large sheets of blue construction paper glued together and cut them into a fish bowl shape.

Then we drew a sandcastle on a sheet of sandpaper and cut it out and glued it to the bottom of the bowl with a strip of sandpaper to represent a sandy tank bottom.

We used "tacky" glue to hold 100 "swedish" fish to the paper.

To make it more sturdy and easier to carry we glued the fishbowl to a sheet of poster board.

That's what WE did this week

how about you...

What did YOU do this week?

Please share your craft projects, baking activities and other fun adventures. Grab the link button and put it on your blog, if you like, so that others can share in the fun too. Also, I invite you to follow this blog via GFC, facebook and twitter..to keep up with our latest activities.

Thanks for joining us....Hope to see you again soon!!

I would also like to extend an invitation to join us for the Momma's Show & Share linky...Where the Moms get to show off what they've been doing all week as well!

Weekend Show & Share

2012-01-27T21:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the first ever Weekend Show & Share brought to you by Adventures In Mommy Land

We've seen what the kids can do... Now it's time to let the mommas have a turn. So..... Moms, what have YOU done this week? Come Show & Share The link party will be up all week....I only ask that you link back to Adventures In Mommy Land. and please spread the news.... the more link ups - the more ideas! ************************************I've been up to my eyeballs in fabrics and trims sewing, what else... Aprons

I simply can not wait to see what everyone else has been doing!!! I'm Soooo excited!!!

*Just wanted to add that I will be picking some of my favorites to feature on next week's post and/or sharing on my facebook page all week.*

Today's Guest Blogger is Lisa....from The Party Works

2012-01-27T09:54:00.001-05:00

Lisa is here today to share fun children's activities that you can incorporate and use for birthday parties or as snow day activities to keep the kiddos busy during these cold dreary months.....

Fun Activities for Winter Parties

Whether you have a child with a January birthday, or you just want to throw a party this winter, you may want to plan some activities to keep the children occupied, happy, and having fun. Here are some cold weather crafts that will keep you and your family giggling until spring.

Make Snowflakes

If you have kids that are old enough to handle scissors, you can make snowflakes and put them up as decorations. All you have to do is start with a square piece of paper, fold the paper into a triangle, and then fold it again to make a smaller triangle. From there you can cut your triangle into different shapes. This will allow you and your children to create beautiful, symmetrical snowflakes that you can string together and hang in the kitchen or kid rooms during the winter months.

Cotton Snowmen

When it’s too chilly to make a real snowman outside, you can always grab some construction paper and cotton balls to make craft snowmen/women.

Winter Treats

A great way to teach kids how to cook early is to make cooking fun, and there’s no better time than the winter season to cook up a storm! Brownies can be cut out in the shape of snowmen and powdered with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. Make your latkes smile with a red pepper smile and green pea eyes. Pretzels can be dipped in meltable white chocolate (fondue chocolate works the best for this activity) then decorated with blue sprinkles.

Snow Globe

If you’ve never made a snow globe, now’s your chance! Just take a small jar with a lid, forest clay, a small winter figurine, and white and silvery glitter for your snow. Attach your figurine to the jar lid, fill the jar with water and glitter, and watch your snow globe come to life.

About the Author: Lisa is a guest writer and mother who loves to use Super Mario Bros party supplies to throw parties for her three sons.

Introducing.....

2012-01-26T18:22:00.001-05:00

I have really enjoyed doing the weekly children's activity link so much, that I decided it was time for the mommas to shine. Starting this weekend I will be starting a new link party for all the crafty moms to share their crafts, recipes and diy or upcycled projects. That's right....if you are a crafty mom - I want you to join us. It's YOUR time to show off I only ask that you grab the button and link back to Adventures In Mommy Land. I can't wait to see what you've been up to...especially with Valentine's Day right around the corner!!! the link will be up tomorrow night...so get to work! *I seem to be having a bit of trouble with the code box...if I haven't fixed it by tomorrow, just copy and paste my blog's web address in your post when you link back. Thanks, Char

Moms That Blog (The Interviews)

2012-01-24T09:56:00.000-05:00

Introducing.....Tyson - she's a busy stay at home mom of three cute little boys who knows how to throw an awesome party, an interior designer by trade and a mom who loves to dabble in do it yourself projects (when she finds the time). And that's what makes her a great Mom That Blogs.

Tell us a bit about yourself....I'm a stay at home mom... but I like to call myself the ringmaster of our family circus! My husband and I are in our 30's and our children are Jake - 5 years old (we call him the mastermind), Evan - 3 years old (he's the bull yet a charmer), and Luke is 7 months old (he's the spitfire!). We're born and raised midwesterners, but have been living in Texas for 3 years now and we love it! Sometime this year we'll be moving to our nation's capitol. So I'm sure I'll be rapid fire blogging about the changes to our lives and making our house a home (as we've done with our current one).... once I find my laptop and some time after that move.

Name 3 Fun Facts about yourself.....1. Once while spring breaking on South Padre Island, I turned down a dance with ole Justin Timberlake himself. I KNOW, right? In my defense it was right when their "Bye-bye-bye" song came out... and boy bands were not "in" yet. He came up and asked me, and I said no and walked away! My one claim to fame! Makes for a good story though.

2. My mom was going to name me Tyson whether I was a boy OR a girl. Lucky me. I've had sooo much trouble with my name. I even had a warrant out for my arrest in college because some idiot at the university "corrected" my gender to male and so therefore I was an 18 male that had not signed up for the draft! I have a million little stories like this.

3. I have a bachelors degree in Interior and Architectural Design with a minor in Facilities Management and Architectural Drafting. However, I'm more of a "meat & potatoes" designer... space planning, kitchen & bath design, flooring selection, and paint & trimwork. I actually really have zero clue about curtains, hanging stuff on the wall, how to decorate a sofa table or bookcase... but that's what people usually ended up asking me about. I think people are shocked to come into my home to learn I was an Interior Designer in a past life. I mean my home is nice... but I think they're expecting WOW.

When did you first start blogging.....I started blogging long ago... 2008. It was when regular people were just starting to blog for journal or to keep up with family. I actually made my blog for family originally... yet hardly any of them read it! They'd get all confused about it (not sure why)... but now my following is IRL friends and my online friends :) I'd love to get to meet some more people through my blog.

What is your blog about.....The H Family Happenings pretty much covers a little bit of everything. Therefore not exactly excelling or standing out for one thing... but that's just kind of me! It can be anything from what we've done lately, anything I've created or designed, to my thoughts and worries... along with good news and fun things to share.

Why do you blog......That's a good question. I can't say for sure WHY I blog, but I know I like it. I like a place to call my own... talk about the kids, my thoughts, my creations, share news, etc. Lately I haven't been very good about it. Still feel like I'm playing catch up from the holidays!

Must read blogs that you visit daily......I can't say there's a specific one I visit everyday. I browse my reading list until something catches my eye. I used to be all over reading the "big blogs"... but frankly I got tired of them acting like they're the end all be all of blogging. I like neat family stories, frugal tips, craft & home decor ideas!

What inspires you.....REAL people doing REAL things. People with faults achieving great things. I'm tired of people portraying that they're always butterflies & roses, never have a down day (year!), and have super powers (not that super powers wouldn't be SO cool).

Do you have a bucket list.....I have a HUGE bucket list. A few of the things include... hike in Alaska, swim in Hawaii, and check out all the places that are the backdrop for the Outlander Series (by Diana Gabaldon) in England & Scotland.

Do you have any blogging advice that you would like to share.......I like when word verification is turned off and I think it's great to always acknowledge those that share along with you!

You can read more about Tys and her beautiful family by visiting her fun family blog H Family Happenings

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#15)

2012-01-23T12:24:00.000-05:00

Welcome to this week's Hey Mom, Look What I Did!!!

Take a look at this week's featured posts....

Bathtub Finger Paints

Looks like fun, Doesn't it?

How to Hypnotize a Chicken

Hilarious post written by a blogger's 8 year old son...must read, you know in case you ever need to hypnotize a chicken.

Paper Cupcakes

Oh how I love me some cupcakes....even the paper kind!

Polar Bear Craft

I love polar bears and Eric Carle books

As you know this week I helped out in Nathan's classroom....it was so much fun!

While I was there and chatting with some of the other moms, there was one mom who shared a fun activity that she does with her daughter. It's called Sticker Club. Each week she hosts a get together with her daughter's friends. They each have sticker books and they share stickers with each other, and if time permits they do a craft and eat a snack.

Doesn't that sound like fun?

I can't wait to hear about all your crafty fun and adventures!

so, what did YOU do this week?

Thanks for joining us....Hope to see you again soon!!

stuff....

2012-01-21T18:44:00.000-05:00

I am having so much fun making these....

Can't wait to "debut" my store and share these with everyone.

These cute little girl ruffle ones

and these cute simple boy ones

Here is Nathan modeling the boy apron....it's super cute and he loves it so much, already tried it out while we made pizza last night.

Thursday, I helped out in Nathan's class room.

They had craft time and made sock snowmen.

I swear this is the BEST first grade class EVER

the kids were so well behaved and listened to the directions...awesome.

I went back on Friday and read to the classroom.

While I was there, the kids showed me the craft that they were making.

It was a picture of the beach.

they took blue tissue paper and glued it to a piece of cardboard

and glued some sand and seashells to the paper.

And then they drew a picture of palm trees and the sunshine.

they were so excited, they showed me the different types of shells and corals and natural sponges.

I read the book My Mom Has X-Ray Vision by Angela McAllister

The kids liked looking at the pictures.

The book is about a little boy who thinks his mom has superpowers.

because she knows where he is and what he's up to all the time....so she must have them, right?

I asked the kids if their mom had any superpowers, they all said no

LOL!

Little do they know

huh?

I gave Nathan's teacher the book to keep for the class room.

I was given extra copies of some paperback books from Tiger Tales and decided to share them.

Did you know that Thursday was National Popcorn Day?

I wonder who comes up with these things???

not that I'm complaining, mind you

and not that I need an excuse to make and eat popcorn

;)

I made some cheddar popcorn...

and

we also made chocolate popcorn

I know it sounds weird

looks even weirder (is that a word?)

but it tasted pretty darn good!

Nathan brought home this chocolate popcorn mix that he got at school during Christmas.

I saved it, because I wasn't sure anyone would eat it.

then I found out about popcorn day and thought that was the perfect time to try it.

I also baked some of these....

chocolate cupcakes with cream filling....yum!

Does that mean I qualify as a "super" mom now???

__________________________________

*Disclosure: I was given the book My Mom Has X-Ray Vision by Tiger Tales for review purposes only.

Fat Quarter Shop

2012-01-20T14:04:00.001-05:00

If you haven't noticed, I have a new sponsor...

FAT QUARTER SHOP!!!

I LOVE this shop!!

Since I started sewing I have discovered a Major Love of fabric...of all kinds.

I find myself checking out fabric stores on line or in person.

I like looking at all the cute designs and touching the material.

I like thinking of ways to use what I find...

I have also become somewhat of a hoarder (I can think of worse things to have piling up around the house)

once I find something I love, I hate to use it LOL!

Yeah, I'm weird like that!

(but from my past posts, you already knew about the hoarding - remember my cupcake liners and baking supplies??)

at any rate....

Fat Quarter Shop has so many fabulous fabrics, patterns, notions and many more. The fabric comes in different cuts or sold by the yard.

Here are just a few samples of the fun and totally gorgeous fabrics...

fat quarters

jelly rolls

kits.....like these for table runners

and these for quilts

For all your sewing needs.....please check out the Fat Quarter Shop!!

And thank you Fat Quarter Shop for being one of my very first sponsors!

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#14)

2012-01-17T14:55:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Week #14 of Hey Mom, Look What I Did!!!

There were so many cute crafts made this week. Here are a few of my faves.....

Soap Explosion

This looks like it would be a total blast to try!! Wonder if it would clean my microwave while we experimented?

Painting With Jello

Oh, I would so be licking that paper....LOL!

Snowman Name Graphs

math and art? Love it!

Foil Fish

I thought this was a cute idea...love the different materials that were used.

Touch and Learn Dump Truck

I LOVE this...what a fabulous idea!! I can't tell you how many times, Nathan has grabbed a touch and feel book for me to read to him.

So many AWESOME ideas...Can't wait to see what everyone has done this week!!

We played with our food, as you can see here.

That's what WE did this week

how about you...

what did YOU do this week?

*************

Thanks for joining us....Hope to see you again soon!!

Didn't your Mommy tell you Not to play with your food?

2012-01-14T20:57:00.000-05:00

Nathan is lucky, because his mommy actually encouraged him to play with his food today

We used oranges and apples cut in half, celery stalks, and green peppers as stamps to paint with.

rainbow colored poster paint

fun times

thankfully Nathan listens to his mommy (especially when it comes to cleaning up his messes)

at least most of the time, that is....

thursday

2012-01-12T23:53:00.000-05:00

Nathan had a doctor appointment today

2 shots

he made the nurse's day, because he didn't cry, whimper or even say "ow"

she was super thrilled, I guess when you are giving shots to screaming, crying kids all day long, it's nice to have at least one kid not act like that.

he also took an eye and ear test.

their eye chart has a house, an apple and an umbrella on it...Nathan called the house an igloo

I have no idea where he came up with that one hahaha

I made chicken and biscuits for dinner

I shredded the chicken using my Kitchen Aid mixer.....Aweeesommme!

I love my new mixer....

love the color

it makes me happy

I swear I use that thing at least once a day...sometimes 2 or 3 times a day.

I also made these......

gooey triple chocolate cookies

nom nom nom

I made some chocolate chip cookies yesterday, but between my kids, Anthony's friends and Amanda coming home and taking some back to school with her....3 dozen didn't last long.

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#13)

2012-01-09T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to week 13 of the Hey Mom, Look What I Did kid's activities link party.

I just love doing these and having everyone link up!!

Soooo many fun, creative ideas from such awesome bloggers.

This week Nathan and Nicholas made Snowman Mobiles.

Actually, Nicholas decided to quit and didn't finish his....the stinker!

You can make this any size...we opted for life size (more fun that way)

You will need construction paper, glue, and ribbon.

We made our's two sided...so double up on everything you cut.

Glue a ribbon to the top of the hat to hang the mobile up.

Also, glue some ribbon to the bottom of the hat and then place the other side on top.

Do the same with the rest of the pieces...we used 3 circles, a top hat and boots.

Glue a face on both sides.

Once all the pieces are glued together with the ribbon tucked inside - you can glue on a scarf and some buttons,

Make sure to add a face and scarf and buttons on both sides. I stapled the ribbon to the paper, just to reinforce the glue...it will be heavy and the glue isn't enough to hold it (especially the bigger size).

then,

Hang it up....

That's what WE did this week...

how about you,

What did YOU do this week?

Little Girl's Apron

2012-01-08T00:56:00.000-05:00

Been working on some cute little girl aprons. I have been thinking about opening an Etsy store and selling them, but I'm soooo nervous that nobody will buy them.

Crazy, huh?

I love the idea of having a hobby that I can profit from though...so the idea is still rolling around in the ol' noggin - I'm sure you know that if I do decide to go for it...I will be posting all about it :)

What do you think...cute?

Would you buy this if you had a little girl?

Would you buy one for yourself?

I think it's cute - just don't look too closely at the seams!

I need to practice some more...but I have so many cute fabrics to use for these aprons, I can't wait to get them done so I can share...(or sell?) with you.

making these later....

2012-01-07T11:51:00.002-05:00

Black Bottom Banana Bars

1/2 c. butter, softened

1 c. sugar (I used 3/4 c.)

1 egg

1 tsp. vanilla

3 med. ripe bananas

1-1/2 c. flour

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 c. cocoa

Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Stir in bananas. Combine flour, b. powder, b. soda, and salt; add to creamed mixture and mix well.

Divide batter in half. Add cocoa to half; spread into greased 9x13. Spoon remaining batter on top and swirl with a knife.

Bake at 350* for 25 mins. or toothpick comes out clean. Cool on wire rack.

Super Yum...

and a great way to use up those bananas

A friend gave me this recipe a few years ago and my kids still can't get enough of 'em.

temper temper

2012-01-04T17:21:00.000-05:00

fun.....fun....fun.....

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#12)

2012-01-01T23:33:00.000-05:00

If you didn't notice, we took a little break last week due to the holidays.

We're back...full speed ahead!

Santa brought the little boys piggy banks this year. Target's line of Go Create has a lot of cute things to decorate coffee mugsjewelry boxesapronspiggy banks  You can buy everything you need to create your own special art piece. rub on transfersstickerspaintsrhinestonesand more
  The boys decided to paint their banks, but I'm guessing they will use the transfers at some point too.

  I didn't take any pics of their finished pigs, because I have a feeling they aren't 'finished' yet.
That's what we did this week
How about you... What did you do this week?

Please share your craft projects, baking activities and other fun adventures. Grab the link button and put it on your blog, if you like, so that others can share in the fun too.

Thanks for joining us....Hope to see you again soon!!  *Disclosure - I am not affliated with Target, just sharing a cute project idea with friends.

looking back....

2012-01-01T14:09:00.002-05:00

Goodbye 2011.

Hello 2012.

2011 has been quite a year...can't say it's been the best year.

I was sick

had surgery

twice.

dealt with a lot of health issues and pain

but, it certainly hasn't been the worst either.

picked up a new hobby

sewing!!

made pillows

buntings

aprons

pajama pants

made my own wreaths...

with candy

and rags

and pines

discovered new recipes...

chocolate chip cookie dough cupcakes

banana pudding cupcakes

red, white and blue cupcakes

repurposed many things...

a brass lamp

old picture frames

candle sticks

coffee tables

mirrors

entertainment center

redecorated my house...

painted kitchen cabinets

kitchen table and chairs

painted bedrooms

painted kitchen
made a gallery of my children's art

supported the kids many endeavors...

volleyball

wrestling

baseball

band concerts

rides to and from jobs

watched my oldest child...

graduate high school

move to college

win scholarships

play on a local game show

total her first car

made some changes on my blog...
was a finalist on CBS's Pittsburgh's best blogs
was featured on some great blogs
did some new moms that blog interviews

cohosted my first big blog party

had some fun with giveaways

did some reviews

gaveaway a few aprons that I handmade

started a new link party

made some life changes...

welcomed a new nephew

quit my job of 8 years

decided nursing wasn't for me, but....

teaching children was

applied for college

Here's to a new and hopefully fun, fabulous year!!

Happy New Year to all of you.....

~Snowy Daze~

2011-12-27T17:07:00.000-05:00

Whether it's snowing in your neck of the woods or not,

Here's some fun snowy day crafts to keep the little ones busy....

Foam Board Mittens

Scrapbook Paper Snow Flakes

Salt Snow

Paper Snow Globes

Snowman Craft and Cookies

Potato Stenciled Snowmen

One Snowy Day

Felt Snowmen

Making Your Own Crayons

2011-12-23T07:00:00.001-05:00

The boys loved when I made some Christmas tree crayons for their school gift exchange.

So much so, that they almost wouldn't let me wrap or attach them to the gifts.

Won't they be surprised when they get some of their very own in their stockings on Christmas morning.

I bought a tree silicone pan for a dollar in Target's dollar spot.

and cheapie crayons from the dollar store.

peeled all the paper off the crayons

broke them into smaller pieces

Cranked the oven to 250*

melted the crayons for about 10-15 mins.

cooled them over night

and popped them out of the mold in the morning.

Cute and Cheap!

Sure you could buy a box of crayons and save yourself the trouble of making them.....

but where's the fun in that?

This month has been so much fun!!

I have really enjoyed the guest bloggers and their posts.

The giveaways were awesome.

I would totally love doing this again sometime.

Extra, extra special thank you to all my bloggy mommy friends who took time out of their busy holiday schedules and shared their crafty goodness with all of us...either through baking cookies or sharing crafts.

Also thank you to everyone who participated in the giveaways! Your prizes will be coming soon (if you haven't already received them). Extra thank you to the companies that sponsored the giveaways!

Super duper thanks to my awesome cohosts...Danielle, who coordinated the whole event, including the pajama contest.

Michelle, who designed the buttons.

Rachel, who hosted a fun ugly sweater party and Jill, who coordinated the carnival linky.

I totally enjoyed myself and I hope they did as well!

Speaking of the pajama contest......

The winner has been chosen!!

Hello Lovelies! Well it is time to announce the winner of The Pajama-Rama contest! I am so excited. It was hard to decided. All my lovely co-hosts and I looked through all the PJ entries and let me just tell you there are some very cutely dressed families out there, all ready for Christmas. I love all the ideas shared. Our absolutely favorite though was from The Craftingfiend.

Jen made an adorable nightie for her little Miss with a matching bear!

How cute is that!

Check out her blog she has a great tutorial on how she made this.

We fell in love with the colors and the stuffee to go with!!

Thanks so much for all who entered. I have enjoyed this month of Christmas fun and thanks so much for all of you getting involved. You guys rock!!

From all my co-hosts we want to thank you for sharing and inspiring this month. Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

P.S.

Jen we will be emailing you, so you can receive all your goodies!

Have a Very Merry Merry Special Christmas my friends!!!!

Christmas Gift Decor by Blissful and Domestic

2011-12-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Lovelies! I am so excited to be here on Adventures in Mommyland, sharing one of my Dollar Store Crafts. My name is Danielle and my bloggy home is

Blissful and Domestic

I love to blog about family, crafts, sewing, cooking, homeschool, re-purposing...

basically anything that lets me use my creativity.....

So that being said lets get crafting!

I started out with a silver plate I found for $1.49 and a vinyl horseshoe

This is a gift for my mother-in-law who LOVES horses
and cowboy Christmas decorations.

Apply your vinyl

Grab some scrap Christmas Fabric and make some rosettes.
I did mine in a few sizes.

Hot glue onto your plate and your done!

Just a few simple steps to a cute Christmas Decoration
on the cheap.

I have so enjoyed sharing a craft with you.

Hop on over and see what other Christmas goodness I have going on at
Blissful and Domestic.

Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Twitter Browse my Pinterest
Follow me with BlogLovin Send Me an E-mail Link up at My Party

Peppermint Candy Centerpieces by The H Family Happenings

2011-12-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello, I'm Tys, you can find me and my misadventures over at The H Family Happenings. I'm a stay at home mom to three boys ages 5 to 6 months! I blog about just about anything but often you'll find it related to trying to bring creativity into my life. Sometimes through home decor, stuff with the kids, crafts, and holiday fun!

I was so honored and excited with Char asked me to guest blog! I've known her via an online moms group for almost 5 years now, hard to believe. She presented me with coming up with a Dollar store craft. I had some ideas in mind instantly. I wanted to make some centerpieces for my oldest's preschool Christmas party, since I signed up for decor/paper goods this time.

Scoured pinterest of course and these were my inspiration (it says this pin was uploaded by user so there's no one I can find to credit)....

We came home from the store with this....

Now I had planned on making peppermint candy TREES. However, while Dollar Store has floral foam, they do not have it in cone form. Bah-hum-bug! So I had to think on my feet (kind of scary), I grabbed 3 glasses hoping to make the tree shape.

Busted out my 24 year old glue gun (yes, I asked Santa for a new one!). I started out by wrapping the foam base with the garland a couple times to cover it.

Then one by one I started gluing the candy onto the glass (that I stuffed with white tissue paper just so IF it could be seen through the candy it just didn't look like candy on a glass, lol!). I left the wrappers on because I could only imagine preschoolers trying to pick them off to eat!

When I got to the top I realized a nice cone/tree shape was not going to happen. I topped it with a ribbon and a candy on top for more of a dome or cloche look.

Price to make is about $2.75 each! They're about 10" high with a 6" base. I still need to make 2 more to be ready for his little school party!

Thanks so much for reading! Thank you Char for having me! I'd love to have you come visit me over at The H Family Happenings soon! Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Ribbon Christmas Trees by Delicate Construction

2011-12-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Adventures in Mommy-Land Readers!! My name is Michelle and I blog over at Delicate Construction!! I am a 27 year old wife to a wonderful hubby, mommy to a spunky almost 2 year old and caregiver for an awesome young gentlemen with Autism who lives with us. This is my favorite time of year it has only gotten better with all the fun surrounding Homemade in December!!

So you can guess how excited I was when one of my fabulous co-hosts, Charlene, asked me to share a post about a dollar store craft! Some of you may not know me yet but I am super ~~cheap~~ frugal and the dollar store is one of my favorite places to grab materials and inspiration. After a stroll through the store one day, I ended up grabbing the materials for this little beauty...

Seriously, could not be easier!

Here is what you need:

Stryofoam cone

Ribbon, any kind, mine just happens to be shear

Hot glue and gun (always always always buy your hot glue from the dollar store, maybe the biggest value!)

A bow for the top, I just had this on hand but you could either buy one at the dollar store or get the ribbon and make one.

Scissors

This is one of those 1,2,3 repeat.... about a thousand times types of projects, but that just means it is incredibly easy to do!

First you cut your ribbon to four inch pieces (or whatever length you want), fold and then hot glue onto your styrofoam cone.

Go all the way around until the first layer is done.

Then go up about an inch and a half or so and do your second row.

Then the third.

And the fourth.

And after the fifth you glue a piece of ribbon around the top and then add your bow! Done!!

How cute would it be to have a bunch of these in different sizes and colors all over a mantle or side table?!

Thanks so much for having me today Charlene!!

I would love for you to come by and visit me at Delicate Construction and if you become a new follower, make sure you leave a comment and let me know so I can follow you back!!

Thanks so much!!

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#11)

2011-12-19T10:27:00.000-05:00

The holidays are in full gear....everyone is scrambling to finish up their to do lists. I am too. So, I'm sharing some of my favorites from last week's link up and the Homemade in December link carnival as well.

Marble Paint Gingerbread Man

Stain GlassTissue Paper Christmas Tree

Paper Plate Santa Face

Glitter Snowflakes

Cone Christmas Trees

Thanks to everyone who has participated!!

I can't wait to see what everyone has made this week.

Please share your craft projects, baking activities and other fun adventures. Grab the link button and put it on your blog, if you like, so that others can share in the fun too.

Thanks for joining us....Hope to see you again soon!!

Christmas Bell Wreath by Emmy Mom - One Day at a Time

2011-12-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

Holiday Crafts for a few bucks......Heck, yes!

This is our last week of the Homemade in December party and we are featuring dollar store crafts - crafts made with products from the dollar store.

To kick off this week, we have Emmy of Emmy Mom - One Day at a Time. Emmy is a creative mom of 3 and an awesome photographer and she is one crafty mom too.

Take it away Emmy.....

The Dollar store can be a hidden gem at times- and today's project a Christmas Bell Wreath was created from things only from the Dollar Store.

You can make one easily too and for only $7!

Note: I did not end up using the ribbon shown

Supplies:
5 boxes of bells (9 bells in each box)
1 green wreath
1 Red bow
Scissors

String the cords that come with the bells through each bell. Then simply tie each bell onto the wreath. Make sure the knots are tight.

You can tie the bells to the front and on the front sides of the wreath- leave a few extra to go back and fill in any holes at the end.

Place your bow at the top of the wreath to see where the bow covers the wreath as you DO NOT need to place any bells there.

Secure the bow to the wreath with the twisty tie that came with the bow.

Hang the wreath (I just put on a door knob) to see if there are any spots you want to go back and add any more bells.

Take scissors and trim any of the gold strings showing.

Then you are done!

Easy, fast and low cost for a great bell wreath.

My Photography website:

http://www.emilykathrynphoto.com

My blog!

http://www.emmymom2.com/

Thanks for sharing Emmy!!

Cool Stuff

2011-12-18T12:56:00.000-05:00

I'm hanging out with Jill and Danielle today.

two of my "Homemade in December" cohosts.

If you get a chance, check out their fabulous blogs and come say "HI!!!" to me there!

There is still time to link up to the Carnival Linky & the Cookie Recipe Link

And Don't Forget to enter for a chance to win...

Three Christmas books from Tiger Tales

and the

Crayon Tote/Busy Bag

Hope you have an awesome fun day!!

Winners!!!!!!

2011-12-17T22:47:00.000-05:00

Shabby Apple Dress Winner....

#10

Natalie Jane said... nataliessentiments@gmail.com

Shabby Apple Twitter follower

Gingerbread Ruffle Apron winner.....

#6
Helene said...

Following you already on Twitter!

7:21 PM

Both winners were drawn via random number generator (I don't know how to do a screen shot or I would).

CONGRATS Ladies!!

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

big thanks to everyone who participated!!
Don't forget to enter the Tiger Tales books and the crayon tote giveaways as well!

~Crayon Tote by Studio Kelly Giveaway~ CLOSED!!

2011-12-17T20:55:00.001-05:00

Wrapping up children's books and activities week with this sweet little giveaway.....

studioKELLY has graciously offered to sponsor a giveaway of this adorable little busy bag.

The apple printed busy bag is perfect for both boys or girls and is just the right size for little ones. It includes six crayons and an activity book.

Kids will love keeping busy while on the go with this adorable little bag. It measures approximately 6.25" tall (10.5" tall when including handles) x 5.75" wide and is made from 100% cotton fabric.

This Busy Bag will ARRIVE FILLED, ready to enjoy!

GREAT FOR:

~ Road Trips

~ Birthdays

~ Church Quiet Bag

~ Stocking Stuffers

~ Party Favor Bags

~ Thank You Gift

~ Just Because!

studioKELLY sells a variety of products from coffee cup cozies to crayon rolls to cat nip toys and even homemade scented playdough.

For a chance to win the sweet little crayon tote:

Visit studioKELLY and tell me another product that you like
Like studioKELLY on facebook
Follow Adventures In Mommy Land via GFC
Like Adventures In Mommy Land on facebook

Follow Adventures In Mommy Land (jfamilyofeight) on twitter

contest will end on December 20 midnight EST. winner will be chosen via random number generator

*U.S. residents only, please!

This Giveaway is now CLOSED!!

Handmade Bookmarks by Twin Trials & Triumphs

2011-12-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

What goes better with books? Why bookmarks, of course!!

And I adore these made by Mandy's twin girls....aren't her girls the sweetest little ones, ever!?! For more of Baby A and Baby B's adventures check out their mommy's blog My Life as Described by Twin Trials & Triumphs

******************************************

I love the idea of handmade gifts, but at not-quite three years old, our girls aren’t yet skilled enough to make traditional (and/or recognizable without written explanation) crafts.

Still, they love to color and do finger paints, so over the past year, I’ve “re-purposed” quite a bit of their artwork. I’ll have them color on large sheets of paper to use as gift wrap. Coloring or finger painting easily turns into the background for a scrapbook page, or the mat for a photo.

And this holiday, our friends and family will be receiving handmade bookmarks, featuring the artwork of Baby A and Baby B.

I had the girls finger paint on large pieces of white paper.

Once dry, I cut out 1 ¼”-wide strips of their colorful smears.

I then glued the painted strips to larger pieces of cardstock, Baby A’s on one side, Baby B’s on the other.

In addition to capturing the girls’ skill set at this point in time, I love how the girls’ approaches are so different from each other. Baby A uses handfuls of paint, while Baby B uses a little paint to go a very long way…resulting in two distinct styles. I signed the girls’ names to the bottom of each bookmark.

I had the bookmarks laminated at an office supply store. (They were able to fit six on a legal-size laminated sheet for $1.98 per sheet!)

I cut the bookmarks out, punched a hole in the top, and used a clear hole reinforcement label to seal the hole.

I used coordinating ribbon to finish the bookmarks, and I added some decorative beads on some of them, as well.

I think our friends and family will love having a small sample of my girls’ artistry, and in a functional format. I plan to let the girls help me wrap (which will probably involve stuffing the bookmarks in a gift bag). And I’m going to attach the following picture with a “Look What We Made” tag.

Happy Handmade Holidays from Baby A and Baby B!

Santa Ornament by Ready. Set. Read

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hi, This is Jackie from Ready. Set. Read! Thank you so much to Charlene for inviting me to post at Adventures-In-Mommy-Land! I am always so inspired by her adorable crafts for kids and thrilled that she invited me to share one this week during the book/craft feature.

One of my favorite Christmas books is The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore Illustrated by Mary Engelbreit . The text of this book follows the classic poem written by Moore in the 1800s. The story of a family settling down for the night in anticipation of Santa Claus's arrival is also beautifully told through Mary Engelbreit's illustrations. Mary Engelbreit is from my home city of St. Louis. (I live outside of the city but I cheer for the "hometown" when it comes to amazing illustrators and world series champions! Go Cards!) The illustrations are so detailed, yet there is a large illustration on each page that grabs your attention. This makes the book great for mulitple ages. My (almost) 2 year old adores her rosy cheeked Santa.

We made a Santa craft to go with this book. I saw this Santa at a gift shop in Branson, MO this summer and I knew I wanted to try and make one. This is definitely a craft that the boys and I had to work on together and it does require a little bit of work to get it ready. It's so cute, though, I thought it was worth it.

You will need red circles (sizes), black circles, a red small ornament, paint, a jingle bell, a yellow button, and a ribbon.

Preparing the Craft:
(1) You will need 9 sizes of circles. My largest circle was about 3inches across and my smallest was about 1 inch across. Cut gradually larger circles. Now use those "patterns" to cut 4 of each size. (This could be much more precise if you had a cricuit, I just had to guess!)
(2) I snipped the felt circles with an X to make it easier for my three year old to thread.
(3)I threaded a jingle bell onto a piece of felt to keep the pieces from falling off. And attached a safety pin for easy threading.
(4) Now create a Santa head. I used a red ornament that I turned upside down. I created a very simple face by painting it white and then painting on a simple face. I cut a triangle out of felt and glued to the top of Santa's head, folded it down, and glued on a cotton ball.

Some older kids may be able to do some of the preparation work on this craft. I have preschoolers so I had to do all of the prep work.

Then I gave Logan (my three year old) each size of circle and he threaded them from largest to smallest.

He absolutely loved this craft. We sat and talked about who he wanted to give his ornament to. It was a great quiet time activity.

Now our cute Santa has a prized place on our Christmas tree, ready for Christmas eve.
If you would like more book and craft ideas like this, I'd love to invite you to check out the 12 Days of Christmas at Ready. Set. Read!

~Tiger Tales Giveaway~ CLOSED!!

2011-12-14T10:44:00.001-05:00

Last Christmas, we started a new tradition. I wrapped 25 Christmas books (old, new and borrowed) and each night the boys and I would open a new (to them) book. We read the book and if time allowed, we made a craft to go with it.

Now, you can have the opportunity to start your very own book tradition with 3 new Tiger Tales books.

Tiger Tales has graciously agreed to sponsor a book giveaway, right here on Adventures In Mommy Land....featuring 3 wonderful titles.

'Twas The Night Before Christmas

The classic tale is brought to life again...with brightly colored illustrations and glittery sparkles throughout the hard back covered book with heavy card stock pages.

Jingle Bells

Deck The Halls

These two delightful, classic carols are brought to you on colorful, board pages. The padded cover is perfect for little ones to handle as well.

For your chance to win these wonderful holiday tales....please leave a comment telling me your favorite Christmas story.

For extra entries (leave a separate comment for each)....

Like Tiger Tales on facebook

Follow Tiger Tales on twitter

Follow Adventures In Mommy Land via GFC

Like Adventures In Mommy Land on facebook

Follow Adventures In Mommy Land (jfamilyofeight) on twitter

The winner will be chosen via random number generator on December 20 at midnight EST. U.S. shipping addresses only, please! Also, for shipping purposes, no P.O. boxes.

This Giveaway is now CLOSED!!

Egg Carton Christmas Tree by JDaniel4's Mom

2011-12-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

Today's guest post is written by JDaniel4's Mom....I love her blog! She is so creative and does so many fun and crafty things. I'm loving the craft that she came up with for this book as well. I recently read the books Duck and Goose Christmas by Tad Hills to my son. The two main characters are struggling with wanting each other to do different things one winter day before Christmas. Goose just wants to enjoy Christmas fun and joy by sledding, making snow ducks, skating and so much more. Duck wants to get the Christmas tree decorated and be done with it if only he can get Goose to stop playing.

Duck spends the whole book trying to get Goose on task. He can’t enjoy the fun Goose is having when there are thing to be completed.
My son JDaniel and I can be like Duck and Goose. How? It is so easy for me to get caught in just wanting to get Christmas activities done and move on to the next thing on my list. JDaniel is a lot like Goose he wants to enjoy the moment.

Creating the Christmas tree I am going to show you how to make is the perfect example. JDaniel wanted to explore all the decorations for the tree, mix them in a bowl, and build cakes with the supplies. I was ready to glue them down.
Materials:
2 Cardboard egg cartons1 Piece of cardboardGreen paintBrown paintAssorted decorations
Directions:
1. Arrange egg cups for cardboard egg cartons on a piece of cardboard. One cup in the top row, two in the second, three in the third, four in the fourth, five in the fifth, and six in the bottom row.

2. Glue the egg carton pieces to the cardboard.
3. After letting the glue dry, cut around the edge of the egg cup tree to get rid of extra cardboard.

4.Paint the tree green and the trunk brown.

5. Glue various decorations to the tree.

6.Sit back and enjoy the finished product.

Rudolph Puppets by I Heart Crafty Things

2011-12-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hi! This is Rachel from I Heart Crafty Things. When Charlene asked if I would guest post for the Homemade in December series I was like, "What? Me?..." hahaha I have always admired Adventures In Mommy Land and continually feel inspired by Charlene's adorable kids crafts so I feel so honored to be here.

I am a Wife and Mommy to three who LOVES doing arts and crafts with my kids. The kids section of the library has become like a second home to me and we love making crafts based on stories we are reading. My blog focuses primarily on children's crafts.

One of the books we just finished reading was Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Robert L. May.

Photo Source: Paperback Swap

Such a perfect story for the season, especially since my boys are so fond of singing the familiar tune that goes along with it. After reading the story we decided it would be fun to make Rudolph puppets.

They are so simple to make and since we added a couple jingle bells to the antlers, my kids have been merrily wandering around the house jingling their puppets all day.

To make a reindeer puppet, start by folding a light brown sheet of cardstock paper in half then open it back up. Use a glue stick to add glue to the top and side of the right half (see picture below).

Then fold your paper back down to glue it shut.

Next use scissors to round the bottom of the paper to give it the shape of a reindeer face.

You can see below how the bottom opens so the child can put their hand in it.

To decorate the reindeer's face you will need 2 large googly eyes, a large red pom-pom, a 3" light brown circle cut in half, 2 strips of 1" x 4" dark brown paper and 4 strips of 1" x 2" dark brown paper.

Have your child make the antlers by gluing 2 of the smaller strips to each larger strip of dark brown paper. Then glue the antlers onto the reindeer along with the half circles which make ears. Then glue on the eyes and nose. I gave my boys a black marker to draw on a mouth.

For added fun, I used my hot glue gun to put a jingle bell on the top of each antler. All you have to do now is get out your camera and take a picture of your kids singing "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" while jingling their cute puppets. :)

Now we're off to watch the famous version of the movie!...Hope you enjoyed our Rudolph puppets. Make sure you stop by I Heart Crafty Things and check out more of our fun kids crafts!

Merry Christmas and Happy Crafting!

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#10)

2011-12-12T00:12:00.000-05:00

Welcome to this week's edition of Hey Mom, Look What I Did

There were so many cute crafts that linked up last week! take a look at these great ideas... The Napkin Snowman by Creatively Content

Drinking Straw Christmas Tree by Reading Confetti

Snowman Keepsake Ornament by Living Life Intentionally

Gingerbread Houses by I'm Living Proof That God Has a Sense of Humor

Thanks to everyone who has participated!!

I can't wait to see what everyone has made this week.

Please share your craft projects, baking activities and other fun adventures. Grab the link button and put it on your blog, if you like, so that others can share in the fun too.

Thanks for joining us....Hope to see you again soon!!

~Gingerbread Ruffle Apron Giveaway~ CLOSED!

2011-12-11T12:08:00.001-05:00

wrapping up cookie week with a giveaway of a sweet little apron made by moi.......

Cute little Gingerbread pattern

the bib of the apron has a sparkly gingerbread fabric

two layers of ruffles

extra long strings fits any size

To enter: Follow Adventures In Mommy Land via GFC

Like Adventures In Mommy Land on facebook

Follow Adventures In Mommy Land (@jfamilyofeight) on twitter

the contest will end on December 16 at midnight est.

winner will be chosen via random number generator

*U.S. shipping addresses only, please!

Good Luck

This Giveaway is now CLOSED!!

Gingerbread Cookies by C Mom Cook

2011-12-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hi! I am Shelley from C Mom Cook. I have been reading Charlene's blog for years, and am so excited to be a part of this online cookie exchange!

In our house, baking is a family affair. My five year old daughter has been helping me in the kitchen from the time she could stand on a chair or stool, and my almost one year old son loves to take part as well. From helping to measure or pour ingredients to mixing and stirring, or even just getting their hands into everything and making a flour-y mess - it's all about fun and learning.

We carry this family baking spirit right on into the holidays with us each year. We bake a wide variety of treats over the entire holiday season, to be enjoyed by everyone - friends, family, teachers, members of our community. And in our house, no one cookie says "Happy Holidays" quite like a gingerbread cookie. Sure we make lots of other cookies (and devour every crumb!), but there's nothing quite like the deliciously warm, spicy scent and flavor of gingerbread to make the season that much more special.

The following is our favorite gingerbread cookie recipe.

Gingerbread Cookies

(from Grandma's Molasses)

8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter (at room temperature)

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup molasses

1 egg

2 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

In a mixer, cream together the butter, sugar and molasses. Add egg and beat until well combined.

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt and spices.

With the mixer on low, slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter/egg mixture.

Once the dough has come together, wrap it in plastic wrap and allow it to rest in the refrigerator for at least two hours (or you can put it into the freezer for an hour, if you are pressed for time). (The dough can rest in the refrigerator overnight, too, if it is easier to make it a two-day process.)

When you are ready to bake the cookies, it is best to divide the dough into portions, to allow the portions not being used to remain in the refrigerator while you are working with one section.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Roll each section of dough to approximately 1/4" thick and cut into shapes using the cookie cutter(s) of your choice. Lay each cookie onto a baking sheet, about an inch apart. You can decorate the cookies with sprinkles or chocolate chips prior to baking, if you wish.

Bake each tray of cookies for 8-10 minutes.

If you choose to decorate these cookies after they are baked, allow them to cool fully first.

Please note that this recipe makes delicious cookies, but shouldn't be used for gingerbread houses - you need more of (what we refer to as...) a "construction grade" gingerbread cookie for house-building, and these cookies are soft and chewy.

Happy Holidays!

For more delicious recipes, please visit Shelley's blog at C Mom Cook.

*Also, if you have a great holiday cookie that you would like to share , please link it to the Cookie Recipe Exchange link party.

Double Chocolate Stuffed Peppermint Cookies by Wendy Paul

2011-12-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

Everyone loves a good cookie. In fact, I haven't met a cookie I didn't like. This is the story of my life. I love to bake. I love to eat. In fact, there usually isn't a day that goes by where I don't bake something. And in our house, cookies are the most requested treat. I think we like them because you don't have to wait to eat them. They are good straight out of the oven. Warm and soft- with a glass of milk on the side.

I often get asked to share my "cookie secrets" during the holidays. First, don't over bake your cookies. Bake them for the smallest amount of time the recipe calls for. If they are still too soft, then bake an additional 30 seconds at a time, remembering they will bake for a few minutes after you remove them from your oven. Cookies go from under done to over done in less than a minute!

Always use real butter. Butter does make everything better. Trust me. Unsalted is my go to butter for baking.

Keep your cookie dough cold until ready to bake. This will give you a tall, fluffy cookie. Warm butter makes your cookie flat and "see through." Make your dough, then refrigerate (overnight is best) before baking.

Use a cookie scoop to get a uniform shape and sized cookie. This will allow you to have all your cookies bake the same, and look more professional.

Don't be afraid to garnish your cookies, much like your cupcakes or cake bites. Drizzle with chocolate, top with nuts, chocolate chips, chopped peppermint candies, etc. Think outside the box. This will take your cookies to the next level and make them gourmet.

Lastly, have fun. Cookies can freeze, so prepare ahead of time. That way your holidays won't be as stressful... or busy with baking.

Here's a link to my latest segment with Studio 5, a local morning show in Utah, where I discuss the topic of butter and show you this great new recipe. Double Chocolate Stuffed Peppermint Cookies. Imagine a sweet chocolate biscuit, with a York peppermint patty inside. It's a 1/4 lb. of sweetness, anyone would love to receive during this holiday season.

How many pounds of butter do you have in your fridge? I really do have 25 lbs.

Happy Baking!

Wendy Paul
Author of 101 Gourmet Cupcakes, 101 Gourmet Cookies, and 101 Gourmet Cake Bites

For more information or great holiday recipes, visit her website www.wendypaulcreations.com

Double Chocolate Stuffed Peppermint Cookies by Wendy Paul

2 sticks (1 cup) butter, cold

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 eggs

1/3 cup half and half

1 tsp vanilla

2 3/4 cup flour

1/2 cup cocoa

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tbsp. cinnamon or Wise Women of the East

2 cups dark chocolate chips (60% cocoa or half semi sweet and half milk chocolate chips)

12 small York Peppermint Patties (dark chocolate covered)

Mix together flour, cocoa, sugars, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon. Stir until combined. Cut your cold butter into tablespoon pieces. Then using a pastry cutter, work the cold butter into your flour until it becomes "pea" sized.

Whisk together vanilla, eggs, and half and half. Pour into flour and butter mixture and combine, until all ingredients are formed together. (Dough will be thicker and sticky. Shape dough with medium cookie scoop and flatten dough with your hand into a thick disc. Place your mint patty in the center and shape the dough, sealing the patty. Then shape your stuffed dough into a round ball and place on a cookie. Repeat until all the dough is used. Freeze for 20 minutes to allow butter to chill.

Remove frozen cookie dough and place on a cookie sheet, 2" apart, baking at 350 for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool completely.

White Chocolate-Coconut Cookies by Jamie Cooks It Up

2011-12-07T07:00:00.002-05:00

Hello there. I am Jamie from Jamie Cooks It Up! I'm happy to be here today to share one of my all time favorite cookie recipes with you. Home baked cookies just seem to brighten up the day, wouldn't you agree?

I think in my previous life I may have been a furry-blue Sesame Street character.

Yep.

I'm talking about the one that can only say a couple of words and always refers to himself as "Me want...."

The one who goes berserk every time he hears the word

COOKIE.

Oh.....cookies.

I don't think there is anything this side of Saturn that tastes better than a warm cookie fresh from the oven. These White Chocolate Coconut Cookies are fabulous! If Cookie Monster were to taste them he just may give up his Chocolate Chip regulars, folks.

He just might.

Maybe the sophistication of White Chocolate would help his vocabulary increase! You never know.....white chocolate can

do strange things to a person.

Or a monster.

Or a person who might have been a furry-blue monster in a previous life, but still has

COOKIES.......

COOKIES........

COOKIES.......

on the mind a good deal of the time.

White Chocolate-Coconut Cookies

Yield: about 30 cookies

Time: 1 hour

Recipe from Jamie Cooks It Up!

PRINT RECIPE

1/2 C butter, softened

1 C brown sugar

1 egg

1 T milk

1 t vanilla

1 3/4 C flour

1/2 t baking soda

1 t baking powder

1/4 t salt

1 C white chocolate chips

1/2 C coconut, chopped up

1. In a Kitchen Aid mixer or in a large mixing bowl cream together the butter and sugar. Let it mix for about 3 minutes.

2. Add your egg, milk and vanilla and mix for 2 more minutes.

3. In a separate small mixing bowl combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

4. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter and sugar and mix for 1 minute.

5. Pour in your white chocolate chips and coconut. Mix just until combined.

6. Roll into 1 1/2 inch balls and place on a sprayed cookie sheet. Press the balls down just a bit and bake at 350 for 10 minutes. The real key to making heavenly cookies, is baking them well. You don't want to over bake, folks. Crispy cookies are not nearly as wonderful as chewy ones! Watch the cookies. When they start to crack, and are just slightly golden around the edges take them out of the oven. I have a convection oven and so I cooke them at 325 for 7 minutes. Let them continue to cook on the hot cookie sheet for 3-4 minutes. Enjoy!

Thanks for sharing Jamie....for more great cookie and other yummy recipes, please visit Jamie's blog....Jamie Cooks It Up!

Also, I'd like to invite everyone to share their favorite cookie recipes on the Cookie Recipe Exchange Link Party

Chocolate Cranberry Cookies by Mom On Timeout

2011-12-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone! My name is Trish and I blog over at Mom On Timeout. I'm so happy to be here today! This is my first guest post so I hope I get this right :) I love the holidays because I get to enjoy even more baking than usual. It is just a delight to make cookies and candies for friends and family and to package the goodies up super cute. So much fun!

Today I'm sharing my Chocolate Cranberry Cookies recipe with you all. This recipe is truly delightful. Fresh cranberries and chocolate combine for a delicious and refreshing cookie. It's really perfect for the holidays! My boys actually prefer the cookie without the chocolate (go figure!) so if you want to stop there - feel free :)

Ingredients:

1/2 c shortening

1/2 c butter

1 tsp vanilla

1 egg

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

2 c flour

2 c chopped fresh cranberries

1 c semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 Tbls shortening

Directions:

First we get started by creaming together the shortening, butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then beat in the vanilla and egg.

Combine baking powder, salt, and flour and gradually add to the creamed mixture. Mix until well combined.

Chop up 2 cups of fresh cranberries (I used a food processor). Blot the cranberries with a paper towel to absorb up any extra moisture. Add them to the dough and stir in.

Drop the dough (about 2 teaspoons each) onto a baking sheet. Let freeze for an hour. Place cookies 2 inches on a baking sheet coated with non-stick cooking spray. Bake for 14-16 minutes at 350 or until lightly browned. Let cool on wire racks.

Melt chocolate chips and 1 Tbls shortening in a microwave safe container. Cook at half power in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Dip the cookies in chocolate or drizzle over the top.

I hope you enjoy this recipe and come visit me over at Mom On Timeout!

Have a very Merry Christmas!

Christmas Cookie Exchange ~ Link Up!

2011-12-05T13:30:00.002-05:00

It's here....it's here....

Cookie Week is here!!!

Gotta holiday recipe you'd love to share? Link up as many as you'd like...including those of years past. Leave some comment love! Grab the button and post it on your blog. Link party will be available for the remainder of the month. Please, share this link party with others....because who doesn't love cookies?!? The more recipes, the better!

Mexican Wedding Cookies from Add a Pinch

2011-12-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Christmas Cookie Week of the Homemade in December party!!!

I'm so excited it's finally here!

I have some fabulous guest bloggers lined up with some super yummy cookie recipes.

My first guest is Robyn of Add a Pinch.

I totally love Robyn's blog and have been reading it for some time now.

Her recipes are always easy to follow and the pictures are drool worthy.

Take it away, Robyn.....

******************

I'm so excited to be participating in Charlene's Cookie Week!

Cookie Week! Doesn't that have a mighty delicious sound to it?

Now, that's a week I can definitely get into celebrating!

I'm honored Charlene asked me to share one of my family's favorite cookie recipes with you this week.

One of our favorite cookies around Christmas has always been these delicious bites of confection covered in powdered sugar.

My mother always made them for parties, showers, and when family and friends visited during the holidays.

I love to continue the tradition of making these simple little cookies with my family.

Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe from Add a Pinch

Ingredients:
1 cup butter
1/2 cup confectioner's sugar (plus more for rolling baked cookies)
1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup pecans
1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Cream together butter and sugar with electric mixer.
Add flour, pecans and vanilla.
Mix until well-combined.
Scoop teaspoon of dough and roll between your palms to form a ball.
Place on parchment lined baking pan.
Bake between 35-40 minutes, until lightly golden.
Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
Roll in confectioner's sugar.

I'll warn you, these cookies are highly addictive and it is so hard to eat just one.

But, you can't sneak them with all that powdered sugar!

Not that I've tried or anything like that. {ahem}

Give these delicious cookies a try this Christmas. I have a feeling they'll become one of your family's favorites, too.

Merry Christmas!

************************

For more delicious recipes, please visit Robyn's blog Add a Pinch.

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#9)

2011-12-04T22:50:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the 9th week of Hey Mom, Look What I Did

I'm sure I'm not the only one struggling to get everything done for the holidays. I haven't done a single thing as of yet. I've been so busy working and trying to keep up with things around the house, between all the kids activities and running all over the place. I'm SO not ready for Christmas!! That being said, I didn't even have to time do a craft with the boys this week, much to their dismay. I bounced back and forth between even posting a Hey Mom, Look What I Did linky this week, especially since I'm hosting a week's worth of guest posters and their delicious Christmas cookie recipes. But, I decided to keep it going despite my lack of an official craft. Everyone seems to love checking out other's crafts and activities just as much as I do, and I'd hate to disappoint anyone. So, I decided to recycle an oldie (circa 2009) Nathan's Handprint Christmas Tree
(aw, lookie how little my baby was - wahhh!) You will need construction paper, glue, poster board and some glittery ribbon. Trace your child's hand onto green construction paper and cut lots and lots of handprints. Glue the handprints to the poster board (shaped like a triangle)/

Using various colors of paper, make some ornaments and a star. Also cut a small rectangle using brown paper for the bottom of the tree.

Glue the "ornaments" and the "garland" to the tree, add a star at the top.

(So Cute, huh?)

Did you do something fun with your kids this week?

Go ahead and make me feel like a total slacker....and share your kids activities, art projects, crafts or baking fun to the linky. Grab the link button and put it on your blog, if you like, so that others can share in the fun too.

Thanks for joining us....Hope to see you again soon!!

Caught My Eye....Homemade Crafts from the Carnival Linky

2011-12-04T14:44:00.000-05:00

holiday fun for the kids

Christmas Play Dough

Santa Handprint Ornament

Glue Snowman Ornament

Paper Plate Pop Up Snowman

Nativity Finger Puppets

Drama & Dresses

2011-12-03T00:27:00.001-05:00

Sarah was asked to go to the junior high's version of the prom this Friday night.

the dance is for 7th, 8th and 9th graders.

Before anyone asks, Zachary chose not to participate.

Amanda took Sarah one day and they went shopping for dresses. It was a beautiful dress.

Her shoes were black and glittery....yes, glittery {{ahhhhh}}

Amanda really wanted to come home and help Sarah get ready for the dance.

You know what they say about the best intentions?

Yeah, it was that kind of day.

Amanda was late getting out of her class

The PRT was broken down.

The bus was late and crowded.

Traffic was horrendous.

Sarah was home freaking out.

drama, drama, drama

hormones, hormones, hormones.

Amanda finished Sarah's hair and make up, but not before Sarah started crying because she was worried about being late (which she sort of was, but not by much).

Princess Tomboy with her date

Pretty dress

Pretty updo

Pretty pearl seed necklace (mine and I told her not to lose it, Ha)

Pretty flowers

and.....

Scabby knees

Silly girl

Oh, and I think someone has a future as a ring bearer...

Ummm, hopefully not for a long long time.

*Linking to.....Jenny Matlock's Alphabe-Thursday

No Longer Using GFC

2011-12-02T15:25:00.000-05:00

I chose to remove the GFC widget from my blog...you can still follow me via rss feed, google +, facebook, twitter, etc. But I had to remove the gfc widget after some questionable profile pics of "followers" showed up over the weekend.

If it looks like spam and smells like spam....then it must be spam!

This is a family friendly blog and I've worked hard to keep it that way. So, imagine my surprise when half naked pics of women were showing up on the widget.

My kids like to read this blog - I don't want them seeing that crap!

I have chosen to switch to bloglovin' but as I've stated you can follow my posts by using any of the other above sites as well.

Thank you for understanding!

tiny prints

2011-11-30T13:01:00.001-05:00

I'm so excited about Tiny Prints Christmas cards.

I usually spend for..ev..er writing out our family's cards. I always thought it was more personal to write out each family member's name by hand.

But then, I always end up with horrible writer's cramp from spending so much time on them and the writing starts to get pretty sloppy after a while as well.

That's why I love the idea of these cute holiday cards from Tiny Prints.

Snap a few pics of our family.

Pick out a card

Then place my order.

There are so many options to chose from....

The only problem I see....

is choosing one card from the hundreds of choices.

I love the mail I get this time of year.

Who doesn't love getting tons of Christmas cards in the mail.

I love to save the ones we get every year, especially the pictures that come with the cards.

I can't wait to get started on ours and I can't wait to start receiving some as well.

*Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post, but I may receive free holiday cards for sharing this great website on my blog.

~Shabby Apple Dress Giveaway~~~CLOSED!!

2011-11-29T12:54:00.003-05:00

I'm tickled pink to be given the opportunity to giveaway another fabulous dress by Shabby Apple.

Shabby Apple is an online women's boutique with beautiful dresses, skirts, accessories, jewelry, maternity wear, children's clothing and even bath and beauty gifts.

There are so many beautiful choices, including this one...

The Nothin' Like A Dame dress by Shabby Apple is a simple shift dress with a lei of tucks, folds and petal-like ruffles along the rounded scoop neck. Princess seams and careful tailoring keep the shape classic and form-flattering, and the cap sleeves and deep red color make this the perfect holiday party dress. This dress retails at $78.00.

How to enter:

Mandatory Entry: Like Shabby Apple on facebook and leave a comment here telling me that you did so.

Extra entries worth one entry each...

Follow Shabby Apple on twitter
Like Adventures In Mommy Land on facebook
Follow Adventures In Mommy Land (jfamilyofeight) on twitter
Follow Adventures In Mommy Land via GFC.

*Please, leave your email in your comments, so that I may contact the winner easily. Thank you!

Good luck!

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED!!!

* the winner will be drawn on Friday, December 9 at Midnight EST via random number generator *the winner must have a US shipping address. *there will be no exchanges for the winning dress.

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

* Disclosure: I am an affiliate with Shabby Apple, so I could get a small portion of any sales coming from this blog.

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#8)

2011-11-28T07:00:00.001-05:00

WAHOOO...

Week # 8 is here!!!

I still can't believe how incredible this link party has become!

and the best part is, it keeps growing!!!

makes me an extremely happy girl

Let's get this party started....

This actually was a "Hey Mom, Look What We Did" week The boys were feeling kind of bored while I was cooking Thanksgiving dinner so I told them to get the craft supplies out and entertain themselves. They made an advent chain.

At some point during the food prepping, Nicholas and Nathan held up their chain and in unison said "Hey Mom, look what we did." They were quite proud of themselves too, as you can see ;)

That's what WE did this week

how about you,

What Did YOU Do this Week?

Link up and share all the fun activities, arts, crafts and fun stuff you did this week.

Grab the linky button and put it on your blog, if you like, so that others can share in the fun too.

Thanks for joining us....Hope to see you again soon!!

Homemade In December Link Carnival!!!!

2011-11-27T22:31:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the

Homemade in December

Link Carnival!!!

Come and link up all your homemade Christmas crafts, recipes, arts and projects! Revive last year's posts and let's share as many ideas as we can! Please do grab a button for your sidebar or post, and we'd love if you followed the hosts too!

*By linking up your project here - you are giving the hosts permission to use photos and information from your linked post in features on our blogs- we will always link back to you and give you full credit!

Link away!!

Pajama Rama Contest......

2011-11-27T11:42:00.000-05:00

If you've been hanging around my blog for awhile now, then you know that I am getting ready to cohost a Christmas party with some other fun, fabulous bloggy moms. As part of the kick off for this super fun holiday party, Blissful and Domestic's Danielle is hosting a Christmas Pajama Rama Party.

The theme for our party is "Homemade in December" And that includes those homemade Jammies....

((these are the jammies that I made....if I can do it, "sew" can you!))

Do you sew your own pjs? orMake some for the kiddos? Here is your time to shine and share your designs.

There will be some great prizes up for grabs

The Winner will receive....

The Ultimate Hairstyle Ebook

by Abby Smith @ My Yellow Sandbox

Silver Bird Necklace from Quicksilver Creations

$10 Giftcard to Blissful and Domestic Designs

A beautiful Headband from The Letter 4

Plus some FREE advertising from these sweet ladies and all

The Homemade in December hosts.
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Here Are the DETAILS.....

Come and link up all your homemade jammies!

They can be new ones for this year or you can link up ones made from previous years, if you like.

They can be for you, your hubby, the kids, or whoever...

Please grab a button for your sidebar or post,

and we'd love if you followed the hosts too!

Contest ends December 16 at midnight.

Sew get busy now, time's a wastin!

After those three weeks, they will be judged by all the "Homemade in December" hosts......

The winner will be announced on December 23.

I can't wait to see what you guys come up with!

&lt;center>&lt;a href="http://blissfulanddomestic.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">&lt;img src="http://i780.photobucket.com/albums/yy82/mrsmichellebarbour/blog-004-1.jpg" />&lt;/a>&lt;/center>

The Family Table

2011-11-24T21:55:00.001-05:00

I recently guest posted on the blog JDaniel4's Mom...she asked me to share my thoughts on pausing for family dinners on Thanksgiving. I was honored to share my thoughts with her readers and wanted to share them here with all of you as well. I tweaked it a bit since then.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Every Thanksgiving as I sit at my kitchen table and look at those sitting around it with me...I can't help but feel grateful for the joy and beauty of having such a large family. Yes, it's loud and there are fights over who gets a turkey leg and who gets to break the wishbone.

But it's also a time of appreciation. A time to truly be thankful for the life that we live and the family we have to share it with. I take the time and sit and stare at each one of their happy little faces and I'm glad God chose me to be their wife and mother. I'm grateful and proud that my children remember to always thank me for preparing their food, every day.

I sit and listen to them as we take turns saying what we are thankful for and I laugh when they say silly things...and I appreciate when they say simple things....how many things we take for granted that others don't have. Every year, Rich and I share the special memory of how each one of our children got their name or how we are thankful that God chose to bless us with them. We tell them, not only how special we think they are, but how much they are loved and wanted. Our life is truely blessed because they are are in it.

I feel good when my children are happy and I love to see them smile. It's what I live for. It makes me happy to hear Nicholas say "one more time, so we can hear Mommy laugh because I love to hear her giggle."

I think family dinners are something that people don't appreciate in these days. When I sit with my family and we are telling jokes and laughing and supporting each other - it makes me happy. Why can't more families sit and take time - to pause their busy lives and enjoy their families. Truly listen to them. So many families 'eat and run' or sit in front of the tv and don't get the chance to appreciate the rare gift of family.

Family is everything to me...my blog motto is "Family---Its not where you go or what you do, it's who is beside you that counts." Now whether that person is a true family member or one that has just become like a family member....appreciate them. Tell them how much you love them. Because we truly don't know how much time we have with each other and we should never take that time for granted.

Teach your children to appreciate and honor the adults in their life. Take time for each other - who else in life is there to grow old with you, love you unconditionally and be there for you even when they are angry...but your family. So, don't just sit together at Thanksgiving dinner and acknowledge the gifts that God has blessed you with...Sit with each other every day or as often as possible. Enjoy the time, the beauty and love that surrounds you (literally). I promise the peace and love you will feel while you eat, will feed you more than the food ever will., Take the time to look around that table and be grateful for the gifts that you are blessed with, not only on Thanksgiving day, but every day as well.

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours!

*linking to Jenny Matlock's Alphabe-Thursday

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#7)

2011-11-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

Can't believe we are on week #7 !!!

I'm so proud of this little baby...it keeps growing each week

and I love all the ideas that keep coming.

I'm still so grateful to everyone who has helped make this linky successful.

On that note,

Let's Party....

Here's what WE did this week... This week has been kinda busy, because of Nick's birthday party, and our tissue paper turkey craft, and Nick started wrestling again, plus, I haven't been feeling very well. So, we ended up just making a harvest scene using foam stickers. I thought it was kind of lame, but for some reason, Nathan absolutely loves doing this.

He will make up stories with the stickers as he places them on the paper. It's the funniest thing ever listening to him giggle and play with the stickers.

Hey....whatever works, eh?

I should add that we spent lots of time playing Go Fish and Memory this weekend as well.

and that he won every single game of Memory that we played...

Which sort of scared me a bit, considering they say that "memory" is the first to go, when you get older.

uh oh.

Now, it's your turn...

What did YOU do this week?

Did you spend time baking up some yummy cookies?

Make a craft?

Paint a picture?

Plan a fun activity?

Feel free to add your kids art & craft project, baking activity or other fun activities to the link list below. Grab the little button and share on your blog, if you like, so others can join us too - Thanks for joining and I hope to see you again next time!

Nick's Camo Party

2011-11-19T21:07:00.000-05:00

Nicholas has been really big on the camouflage this year.

So, for his birthday party, we had a camo party.

I made some bunting for decoration

less than 2 bucks and 20 minutes to make.

camo and greenish burlap fabric

Cupcakes

and more cupcakes

some of the decorations

some presents

Show me the money...

Nerf gun battles

Pizza!!

more decorations

the older boys built an obstacle course outside (but I didn't take any pics of it).

Food, Friends, Family & Fun

it's what life is all about!

Craft Time with Nathan

2011-11-17T10:40:00.000-05:00

Now that Nicholas has started wrestling again, I've been hearing Nathan complain that "there's nothing to do"

You know, because we don't have enough tvs, other kids, games and toys to entertain him.

I decided it was time for a craft.

We made tissue paper turkeys.

We used oak tag paper, red, yellow, orange and brown tissue paper (cut into squares), google eyes and lots of glue.

I cut a feather/wing shape, a body, feet and a beak out of the paper and Nathan started glueing crumpled up squares to the paper.

We used red, orange and yellow for the feathers.

brown for the body, orange for the feet and yellow for the beak

We glued the body to the feathers and added google eyes (the turkey has a really cool 3D effect - when you glue it all together).

Cute little turkey, huh?

(the tissue paper turkey turned out really cute too)

*linking to Jenny Matlock's Alphabe-Thursday

Moms That Blog (The Interviews)

2011-11-16T11:50:00.000-05:00

Introducing......Jill, blog author of Creating My Way To Success.

Tell us a bit about yourself.........I'm originally from England - but came to Australia with the fantastic idea of meeting an Australian to marry so I could stay here! Then I met my wonderful husband to be who is from Scotland and came out here with the same plan!! So we were no help to each other -and had to return to the UK and then figure out how to get back here! We managed and now we're officially Australian citizens and live in the tropical paradise of Cairns - with the Great Barrier Reef on our doorstep and two gorgeous daughters to share it all with!

Tell us 3 fun facts we may be surprised to learn about you.......

1. I love adrenalin rushes - and have bungy jumped 6 times. For my 40th birthday I've asked for an annual pass to the local bungy jump so I can jump whenever I want!

2. I have an addiction to jelly snakes - once a pack is open I can't stop till it's finished!

3. I'm an aspiring author and have written 3 romance novels! (not published but maybe one day.....)

When did you first start blogging........I started blogging with my friend in early 2010. We ran a market stall together selling our creations and set up our own website. Then we learned about blogs and set one up because - 'every good website has a blog attached'. As we learned, we both found we loved blogging and had to separate to have our own blogs! the original website is gone - but our blogs are still going strong!

What is your blog about......I blog about sewing - with lots of tutorials. I'm a great believer that anyone can do anything they set their minds to - and that includes sewing - I've started a series of tutorials for useful things to make in 5 steps and 15 mins! I also blog about how I'm trying to make my blog profitable. I know there's lots of other people out there who want to do the same - and since blogs are all about sharing knowledge - I figured I'd post all that I'm learning and trying - what works, what doesn't, so others can learn from my mistakes and successes too!

Why do you blog........I blog because I love it. It's what I spend most of my days doing now that my girls are both in school! It's also why I need to make it profitable in some way - so I can keep doing this and not have to go out and work for someone else! I think it will be a great resource for my kids in the future. Whether or not they want to learn to sew now - it doesn't matter - this is a way I can save all my knowledge to pass on to them when and if they ever want it! Until then - I'm happy to share it with anyone who's interested! Oh and I love the 'show and tell' aspect of blogs! There's always someone out there who will 'ooh and ahh' at what you've made! Because we all need encouragement!!

Must read blogs that you visit daily.......I read loads of different blogs as often as I can - that's where lots of my inspiration comes from. A few to mention are: A Spoonful of Sugar Designs, Michele Made Me and Suzy's Sitcom. I have lots more on my blog roll on my sidebar too! and I often get sidetracked finding new ones from my monday 'Round Tuit' linky party.

What inspires you.......My girls, pinterest, other blogs - life - anything and everything!

Do you have a bucket list - name a few things on it........Yes - always being added too! Some things on it are:

- Hike up to Everest Base Camp.

- Visit Macchu Piccu

- Win a race

- Succeed in making a living working for myself!

Do you have any blogging advice that you would like to share..........You have to enjoy what you do - because it takes up so much of your time. I think the most important thing is to know WHY you're blogging. Also, blogging is a very social thing. I think one of the most important things to do is to visit other blogs, share the comment love and reply to those who take the time to comment on your things. Share knowledge freely and be respectful of other's work.

Take a few minutes today

Stop by and visit Jill at Creating My Way To Success!!

I'm guest posting today....

2011-11-15T08:15:00.000-05:00

I'm hitting the "pause" button over at

JDaniel4's Mom

today

Stop by for a visit

read my post

and say "hi!"

Hey Mom, Look What I Did (#6)

2011-11-14T01:42:00.013-05:00

Here we are.....

Week #6 ~ Wow!!!

I have enjoyed every single week of this link party.

I love looking at everyone's projects

(and getting ideas for future projects)

It's been so much fun.

I'm so thankful to everyone who has...

participated

shared this link

posted my button

and have come back each week

On that note,

Let's get the party started......

here's what We did this week.... We read the story Limelight Larry by Leigh Hodgkinson

Limelight Larry is the best book ever, simply because it's all about Larry. At least Larry thinks it should be all about him. He gets mad when everyone keeps trying to get on the pages and thinks the book only has room for one star - him. Page after page, he gets more competition for the limelight when his friends keep showing up. Finally, Larry has had enough and kicks everyone out of the book. He takes that moment to show his stuff.

But, he soon realizes that there's no fun in showing off, if no one is around to see it. We love Limelight Larry At least twice a week Nathan pulls this book off the shelf for me to read to him. We did two projects using this book Our first was painting a picture of Limelight Larry.

(Nathan's "Larry" painting)

For the second craft, we used a sheet of scrapbook paper, tissue paper, part of a craft kit, oak tag paper, a pipe cleaner and glue.

I found this kit at Walmart last year in the clearance aisle and picked it up for a rainy day

I forgot I had it until I cleaned out the craft closet and saw it.

I cut a body out of the scrapbook paper and we glued the feathers, beak and eyes (from the kit) to the body.

I cut a feathery/wing shape out of the oak tag and Nathan glued tissue paper squares to it.

We made legs and feet using the pipe cleaner and we stapled and glued them to the oak tag.

Nathan glued the body to the feather/wings

Nathan's Larry...

So cute!

(*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes, the opinions herein are my own and were not influenced by Tiger Tales in any way)

*****

Now, it's your turn...

what did You do this week?

Please feel free to add your kids art & craft project, baking activity or other fun activities to the link list below. Grab the little button and share on your blog, if you like, so others can join us too - Thanks for joining and I hope to see you again next time!

~Blog Party~

2011-11-11T17:10:00.001-05:00

Just a few fun announcements....

I will be cohosting a Christmas Blog Party with four other Fabulous Girls!

We each have different themes and tons of fun stuff planned

With lots of ideas on how to make your Christmas special by not spending a ton of money

It's called "Homemade in December"

There will also be some fun prizes too. some of our themes are.... An Ugly Sweater PartyA Pajama ContestKids Activities and CraftsAdvent CalendarsLast Minute Gift Ideas plus, many many more... My themes are: Kids Books and Crafts Cookie Recipe ExchangeDollar Store Crafts (making gifts or crafts using things found at the Dollar Store) Here's where you can get in on the fun.... I still need some guest bloggers. Do you have a cookie recipe that you would love to shareOr a super cute gift idea or wreath that you made using dollar store itemsA kids craft using a children's Christmas book as a theme And would like to participate? Just send me a message and let me know what you'd like to do. Or... If you would like to be a sponsor and host a giveaway, let me know that too. I'm seriously so excited that I cannot wait to get started. Get ready and Get that Craft on! *More announcements will be coming soon.... I'm linking to Jenny Matlock's Alphabe-Thursday

Paper Plate Turkeys

2011-11-10T14:18:00.000-05:00

Gobble, gobble, gobble. . . .We made some turkeys.

The boys painted one large paper plate and two small paper plates brown.

I cut feathers, legs, beaks and gobblers out of foam board

We also used wiggle eyes

I used one of the smaller plates to cut into wing shapes

We glued the small plate (head) to the larger plate (body)

The boys glued the feathers to the back of the plate

And wings to the front

They glued eyes, beaks and gobbles to the face

Super cute turkeys, huh?

*This is a craft that we actually made last year for Thanksgiving, but it is cute enough to share again!!

If you are looking for more crafts to make using paper plates, check out Au Pair.org's

10 Crafts for Kids Made from Using Paper Plates.

There are ideas for making angels, flowers, snowmen, masks, puppets and yes, even turkeys, using paper plates.

Bring on the Turkey!

Moms That Blog (The Interviews)

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello ALL!!!

My name is Michelle

and I blog at Delicate Construction!

I am so excited to be here and be a part of the Mom's that Blog here at Adventures in Mommy Land!

Let's get this party started!

*Tell us 3 fun facts about yourself

Hmmmmm, I LOVE to throw a party, the planning, invitations, crafting, setup, all of it- but at some point throughout the process I always think about canceling... every time. I feel like it is just part of the process now LOL. I made the invitations and helped plan both my bridal and baby showers as well as my wedding. I made my own centerpieces and even had to be pulled away from the buffet for trying to refill it in my wedding dress.

I am a semi extreme couponer- not the buy 203,489 bottles of mustard couponer but I buy at least 4 papers every week (more on a good week) and will store hop for a good deal. I have even thought about taking a vacation to an area with stores that double coupons just for the deals.

I am a compulsive volunteer. It isn't even that I can't say no, but I go one step further and suggest ideas that weren't there before and then offer to do them. I can't help it, but then I can usually blog about it so it is all good. :)

*Tell us a bit about yourself:

I am a 26 (soon to be 27- don't know when that happened) wife to a hottie of a hubby, mommy to a feisty, red headed princess and a full time caregiver to an awesome young gentlemen with Autism who lives with us here in San Diego, California. I am a stay at home mommy for the most part but I also teach an 18 month old class part time, which is great because every day is bring you daughter to work day!

*When did you first start blogging:

I first started blogging waaaaay back in the beginning of 2008 and really it was just like a journaling thing. I hadn't discovered any other blogs, the idea of comments and following- none of it. Then when I did it was like I saw the light. I became interested in sharing my creative ideas, which then bred more creative ideas which became more posts and so on. I also loved being a part of a community and talking with ladies that embraced the dollar store, Goodwill, upcycling, being frugal and made it popular not something to be ashamed of or hide. We are ladies with families and tight budgets and that is ok because the least money spent makes your project that much better, as opposed to the other way around.

*What is your blog about?

I have what I like to think of as a "mom" blog, I try to include all the things I would want in a parenting magazine. Ideas for mom to be creative, decorate and craft but also things for the kids to do as well as helpful tips and tricks. I have a kids Made By Little Hands linky party on Monday's, an all inclusive Delicately Constructed Friday linky part for crafts, recipes, diy, etc. that runs through the weekend. Also, I do a weekly 10 New Uses Tuesday where I take a common item and find 10 new ways to use it and focus on a different item each week.

*Why do you blog?

I blog has a hobby, I love sharing and swapping ideas with other. Also I feel like blogging encourages me to think outside the box, problem solve and be more creative. When I throw a party, yeah it would be easier to just spend the money and buy handled bags- but making them for a fraction of the cost and then sharing a tutorial for others who would like to know and save the money is a much more attractive concept for me.

*Must read blogs that you visit daily

These are some of my favorite blogs! You should go check these ladies out!!

*What inspires you?

Everything. I have one of those minds that sees something and wants to know how it works or how it was made. I am constantly deconstructing things around me and thinking how I could make it with what I have or inexpensive materials. Some of my favorite projects came from my husband saying "bet you can't make something out of _____" ... and I did.

*Do you have a bucket list - name a few things on it?

I don't have an actual list but there are a few things I would love to do at some point in my life. I have always thought a family road trip would be an amazing memory. I would LOVE to write a couple of books- one for kids art activities and one for crafts for adults. I have a serious interest in event planning and decor and would love to explore that and of course, guest post on Tatertots and Jello.

*Do you have any blogging advice that you would like to share?

Comment, comment, comment. We all love a comments. Also, always leave a comment when you start following someone- whenever I get a comment saying someone is a new follower I try to follow back. Lastly, be yourself- I love reading blogs from people who are real; they use slang, write like they talk, don't act like their house is Better Homes and Gardens perfect 24/7 and share the occasional fail.

Thanks so much Charlene for having me on today and I hope to see you all around Delicate Construction soon- remember, if you follow me let me know! :)