Organize Your Life, Not Your Stuff

Browsing Archive: December, 2009

Readers Recipes

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 31, 2009, In : Readers Recipe 
submitted by Andrea R, Houston, Tx

Chalupa

(sourced from college friend-and has previously inspired a bachelor to cook! )

3lb boneless pork roast
2 cloves garlic
1 small can diced chiles
1 lb. pinto beans sorted and rinsed
1 Tbsp. salt
2 Tbsp. chili powder
1 Tbsp. cumin
1 Tbsp. oregano

Put all in pan and cover with water. Cook over low heat for 3 hours (or in crockpot).
Break roast--put on cutting board and shred or cut if too hot.
Put back in pot and cook for an additional hour or until beans are tender....
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Readers Cleaning Tip

Posted by Holly Nelson on Wednesday, December 30, 2009, In : Cleaning Tip 
Submitted by Laura M., Bartlett, Tn

Laura said she found out this trick by accident. And I am so glad she did. I just got a new smooth top cooktop stove. I never realized how hard it was to keep it clean. She said to take a swiffer wet pad, not "Wet Jet" solution, and wipe the surface. It will take off any grease and grime! She said any cheap brand will also do. She goes to Sam's Club to buy the bulk size cheap brand. 

 Other uses:
1. The bathtub
2. Cabinets
3. Tile surfaces, counters
4. Bathroom s...
Continue reading ...
 

Baked Potato Soup

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 29, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
Baked Potato Soup
4-6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
6-8 C chicken broth (canned or leftover from boiling chicken)
1-2 C milk
salt and pepper
Opt- bacon, cheese, sour cream, chives, crackers, cornbread

1. Boil potatoes in broth until tender.
2. Mash with potato masher. Do not mash completely! Leave a few good chunks of potato.
3. Add milk, salt, pepper. Stir together.
4. Serve with crumbled bacon pieces, cheese, sour cream, & chives. And crackers or cornbread. 
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New Years Eve Party! with kids

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 29, 2009, In : Tip of the Week 

New Years Eve Party:

When the kids were young we still wanted to stay home and have a news years party with them. Being young and they couldn't stay up til midnight, so this party started at 6:00. As they have gotten older I have waited til later to start.
After we eat pizza and hot wings here is what I do:
New Years Party: Each hour open a bag and do the activity inside, then it's outside for fireworks. We have 4 bags to open.

 ~1st hour/1st bag: Watch and glowsticks(lots). Put on our watches fo...
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Area Cleaning- Laundry & Office & Holiday Tip

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 28, 2009, In : Area Cleaning for the Week 
Dec 28- Jan 1
       Laundry                                                                 Office
M~ clean gunk under washer lid                                  Clean monitor
T~  look behind washer and dryer for old socks,etc...    organize pens & pencils 
W~ remove cobwebs                                                  Same
T~  Clean windows and window sills                             Same
F~ Sweep/ Vacuum/ Mop                                            Same

Remember, 15 minutes is all it tak...
Continue reading ...
 

Menu Dec 27-Jan 2

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 25, 2009, In : Weekly Menu Plan 
Breakfast:
S-27~ banana bread
M-28~ eggs and toast
T-29~ cinnamon pancakes with cherries and cinnamon syrup
W-30~ brown sugar oatmeal
T-31~ vanilla almond french toast, homemade syrup
F-1- NEW YEARS!! ~ Chocolate gravy and biscuits
S-2~ cereal 

Lunches:
~ egg salad, turkey, pb & j , tuna
~ yogurt
~ fruit
~ chips

Dinners:
S-27~ BBQ chicken, mashed potatoes, peas, biscuits
M-28~ spaghetti pie, salad, bread
T-29~ cheeseburger pie, green beans, crescents
W-30~ steak, potato, salad
T-31~ Pizza and hot wings, PARTY!...
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Grocery Cart $121.17

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 24, 2009, In : Grocery Cart Challenge Friday 
I am posting early because tomorrow I think we all will be a little busy. And I didn't stay as low as I wanted but I had to buy food for the animals, extra stuff for appetizers, and dishes. And I lost my receipt!! I will post a picture and hopefully that will help you.

Walmart  $122.17  ($27.83 under budget)


Dog food not pictured. And look at little Luke trying to sneak away with the batteries! I bought a package that has a small screwdriver that looks like a battery. How clever! 
 And I do feel...
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Christmas Clean Up Tip

Posted by Holly Nelson on Wednesday, December 23, 2009, In : Tip of the Week 
Here are a few tips I have used over the years to keep my Christmas morning sanity. Before, I have lost parts to toys and batteries. Not so much fun for the little one wanting to play with his gift! I've also thrown in time saving tips for you, too.

 Clean Up Tips
1. As you and your family unwrap presents, put all the wrapping paper in a trash bag.
2. If you save ribbon , bows, boxes, or bags: Keep a large Christmas bag and put them in it as you unwrap.
3. As your kids unwrap, have them keep all ...
Continue reading ...
 

Happy Birthday Jesus Cake

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 22, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
I think when you do this with a child , it will finally resonate in their minds what Christmas is all about. When children sing "Happy Birthday", they know it's for someone's birthday. And this is for Christ's birthday! I hope this will be a tradition in your home every Christmas.

Happy Birthday Jesus Cake

chocolate cake mix
white cake mix(opt)
red and green food coloring
white icing
an angel
7 stars
12 candles 
round cake pans
baggies

1. Bake chocolate cakes (will make 2 round pans) and  freeze one for...
Continue reading ...
 

Area Cleaning 21-25 /Bed and Baths

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 21, 2009, In : Area Cleaning for the Week 
*If you have children, have them do these chores for their rooms and bathrooms also this week!!

          Bedrooms                    Baths

M~  change /wash sheets           Wash rugs/ Scrub toilet
T~   clean under bed                   clean under cabinet (straighten linens, toiletries)
W~  vacuum or sweep floor         sweep/vacuum/mop
T~    Add flowers, candle,etc       Add flowers, candle, etc- take bubble bath!   
F~ CHRISTMAS!  ~Put all gifts away in rooms, throw away all paper, break down bo...
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It's My Birthday!

Posted by Holly Nelson on Sunday, December 20, 2009, In : Just Because I said.... 
I received two birthday presents a day early and I am so excited about them so I wanted to share!


First I opened these!! They are new favorite pair of shoes!! I hope these don't make me look fat because I am wearing them anyway!  They are from my momma. We went shopping together around Thanksgiving and she knew I loved these and wouldn't spend the money on myself! They all laughed at how happy I was and joked about me running in them, so I did! Now who's laughing. Okay, everyone was! Because I...
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The Perfect Christmas Picture...?

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 18, 2009, In : It's a BOYS Life! 


These are my boys! Oh, how I LOVE my boys!! Words cannot even describe the joy that leaps in my heart when I think about my boys! 

 This is my favorite picture of them from this whole year!! I'll tell you why. It shows all of their personalities perfectly! 

 This was our "goofy face" picture:
From L to R- counter clockwise- Ian being moody, Luke- picking his nose, his favorite past time, Noah and Seth are obeying me (my mostly obedient children), and Ryan NOT! (my defiant one).

I really wanted th...
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Week of Dec 20-26

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 18, 2009, In : Weekly Menu Plan 
Christmas Week Menu!
 
 Breakfast
S~ pumpkin bread (& Christmas brunch in Bible fellowship class)
M~eggs and toast
T~ cereal
W~ apple cinnamon oatmeal
T~ PB toast
F~ CHRISTMAS!! donut snowmen, chocolate chip pancakes, eggs, biscuits and gravy
S~ chocolate gravy and biscuits,leftover chocolate chip pancakes


Lunches
~ turkey, egg salad, PB and J
~ chips
~ fruit
~ cookies

Dinners
S~ My B'day! Roast, mashed potatoes, green beans, honey crescents
M~ hamburgers, roasted potato wedges, veggie
T~ leftover beef and veg...
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Weekly Grocery Cart- $35.57!!

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 18, 2009, In : Grocery Cart Challenge Friday 
I only spent $35.57...well, kind of. I have the most precious aunt in the world! She sent me a $50.00 gift card to Wal-Mart so I could buy my Christmas baking supplies. I wasn't going to be able to make any candies and goodies this year because of our tight budget. I never knew I could be so excited about Wal-mart! I am not posting my list of what I bought, but I will tell you I bought baking supplies to make oreo truffles(lots!), toffee saltines(lots!), fudge wreaths, iced pumpkin chocolate ...
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Stocking Stuffer Ideas

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 17, 2009, In : Tip of the Week 
Here are a few ideas that I have for stocking stuffers. Some are frugal, some are not. And they are in no particular order. Some can be for kids as well as teens or adults. So, I just mixed them all together. I also like to wrap most of the things I put in their stockings. It gives us more time in the morning!

If you know someone that will not be getting a stocking to open on Christmas morning, this is also a good idea for a present. Buy any kind of  stocking and fill it with a few of the pers...
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Granddaddy Jim's Turkey and Rice Soup

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 15, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
This is a recipe from a friend, Ami McVay. This was the first time I had made her recipe and I messed up from the start. The night I made the turkey I was supposed to cover with water and sit in fridge all night. I left those orders to my hubby as I ran out to a cookie swap. The next day I realized that didn't happen. SO, I had to make due at the last minute. Although I did not follow her recipe exactly I would suggest that you do. It is so much better her way! I didn't have the turkey stock ...
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Baking and Making Homemade Gifts

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 14, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
This week is the last week of school for the boys. Friday are the school parties. I am baking goodies and making bookmarks for teacher gifts. I will try to post with pictures everything I will be baking.
 But, for now, you can check out the Christmas page and click on the recipe pages, scroll down.

I will be adding to these pages all week. 

 Christmas Candies and Desserts 
 
Homemade Christmas Ornaments (You can make a round ornament, with kids picture decoupaged on. or just painted)

Homemade Gifts...
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Are Cleaning- Entrance/Living Room

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 14, 2009, In : Area Cleaning for the Week 
Entrance / Living Room (family room)
      
     Entrance                                Living Room     
M~ Sweep porch and steps           Clear away clutter
T~  Sweep cobwebs                     Straighten bookcase
W~ refill bird feeders                     Polish furniture 
T~ clear clutter                             Purge magazine rack (donate old ones)
F~Clean lights and switch plates -both          
...
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Birthday Party and Christmas Lights

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 11, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
Today is my second sons 11th birthday!! I love birthdays! I love any good reason for a party! So, today we aren't really doing anything "christmassy". He and a few friends are going to play laser tag, and come home for pizza and apple pie. He doesn't like cake, so I'm making his favorite- apple pie! 

Saturday night we are taking all the boys to Shelby Farms here in Memphis. They have the whole park decorated with Christmas lights. I heard this year is fantastic. It's the first year back many y...
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Menu Plan Dec 13- 19

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 11, 2009, In : Weekly Menu Plan 
I have my family in town to celebrate our Christmas together. Saturdays menu is what I will be making for them.

Breakfast
S~ sausage biscuits
M~ Chocolate gravy(make double batch or later in the week) and biscuits
T~ cereal 
W~ brown sugar and cinnamon oatmeal
T~ eggs and toast
F~ vanilla almond french toast with homemade syrup
S~ pancakes: plain and choc.chip with assorted syrups, eggs, bacon, biscuits and gravy, OJ, coffee, milk


Lunches: 
~turkey, ham, egg salad
~chips
~fruit
~no bake cookies


Dinners:
S~ ...
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Grocery Cart

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 11, 2009, In : Grocery Cart Challenge Friday 
This week I had to buy a few things for my sons birthday party. The price is a little higher than I really wanted it to be. But, he is worth it!! I spent an extra $27.56 on pizza that I normally would not buy. I also bought drinks, chips and ice cream for his birthday "pie". He doesn't like cake so I am making him apple pie, his favorite. 

 
Schnucks
root beer $.59
lemon lime  $.59
orange drink $.59
bread $.75
lays chips $1.88
lays chips $1.88
bbq chips $1.88
cheddar chips $1.88
choc. chips $1.79
choc. c...
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Painting ornaments and Parade

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 10, 2009, In : Just Because I said.... 
Todays Christmas activity is quite simple. We are painting the ornaments that we made the other day.  When we paint our ornaments that we made for the Jesus Tree, I make sure I paint the bible verse that goes with it. Go HERE for the list.
 


I also wanted to share a few photos with you. Our oven had been broken for over a month. We were finally able to get a new one, well new to us. Last Saturday was our town's Christmas parade. I knew it was going to be very cold, so I homemade Hershey's Hot C...
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Nativity Treasure Hunt

Posted by Holly Nelson on Wednesday, December 9, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
This idea was taken from the An Advent of Ideas from Christmas Sharing, Product Concept , Inc.

"We saw a star in the East and have come to worship him." Matthew 2:2

 There has often been confusion over these three men who came to visit Jesus. Were they Kings? Magi? Did they visit Jesus on the night he was born or when he was a toddler. What about the strange gifts they brought? Such questions make for good family conversations.

Read Matthew 2:1-12 to learn about the story of the "wise men" who t...
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Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 8, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
This has to be the easiest cookie recipe ever. And it doesn't really call for chocolate chips, but everything is better with chocolate.



Start with this- Spice cake mix and canned pumpkin.



This 



Plus this...



Equals this! YUM!



Pouring a half a bag of chocolate chips is easier. I had to chop chocolate because my chocolate chips were mysteriously missing. HMM?



Scoop a half of a large tablespoon or small teaspoon size, scrapping it on the cookie sheet with another spoon.

You can put them close together b...
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Luke 2 & the Nativity Scene

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 8, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 


Today is very simple. We are going to lay the Bible, open to Luke 2, beside the Nativity Scene. It is a tradition that my husband reads Luke 2 on Christmas Eve. So, either my oldest son or I will read Luke 2 today. We are also going to watch Christmas movies tonight. I suggest the Nativity Story.

Oh, do you see one of the wise men?  He lost his head. He wasn't very wise last year and let my youngest play with him. I'll be super-glueing it today in case you were worried for him.

Continue reading ...
 

Kitchen/ DIning Room

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 7, 2009, In : Area Cleaning for the Week 
Area cleaning Kitchen. Dining Room:
 
 M~ Wash canisters and knick-knacks-both rooms
T~ Wash windows, sill, inside and out- both rooms
W~ Wipe fingerprints off walls and switchplates- both rooms
T~ Clean trash can/ dust bottom of chairs
F~ seep, vacuum mop- both rooms
 
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Kitchen/ Dining Room

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 7, 2009,

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Countdown to Christmas Bible verse chain

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 7, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
Today the kids and I are making bible verse chains. When we are done making them, they can put their own in their rooms. Sometimes we hang it as garland on their tree, around the door frame(on the inside), around the headboard, or around the dresser mirror. 

Countdown to Christmas Bible Verse Chain

  Write down the words.

  Loop the loops

 All done! Put on fridge!
 
 What you need:
 Desired colors of construction paper
 Marker
 Bible

What to do: 
1. Mark in the Bible 1 John 4:10, Matthew 1:21, 2 Timothy...
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Free activities at Bass Pro

Posted by Holly Nelson on Saturday, December 5, 2009, In : Family Fun 
I had to share this with you. Bass Pro has all kinds of fun and FREE stuff to do during the month of December. Check out their website. You will not be disappointed!!

 Bass Pro Christmas

Free Games
Free Picture with Santa
Free Activities
Free Crafts- Today is the reindeer hat. 
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St.Jude Presents, Parade, and more

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 4, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
This weekend will be busy so I'm posting this early. And I thought it was so great I had to share.
 Saturday's Agenda:
1. Ian's Basket ball game
2. lunch
3. Take Christmas books, coloring books, and crayons to the St.Jude kids.
4. Go to new Salvation Army, Grand Opening Saturday.
5. Christmas cards
6. Arlington's Parade at 4:30 with hot cocoa!*
*I can't find my very warm coat!!

Sunday's Agenda:
1. Worship
2. Afternoon of making large batches of ornaments- Salt Dough and Spice Dough.
* Make a few large, f...
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Jesus' Birthday Box

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 4, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
Today the kids and I are going to make another birthday box for Jesus. Yes, I did mean "another" because the one we have now is falling apart. It is a beautiful Gold wrapping paper to represent Jesus being King of Kings.

 TO MAKE:
 *This is very simple, even for little ones to help.
~ 1 small shoe box
~ wrapping paper
~ pieces of paper
~ pencil
1. Wrap the box in wrapping. Make sure you wrap the lid separately. And put the paper and pencil inside.
2. On the top of box, or on a pretty gift tag write
 M...
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Menu for Dec 6-12

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 4, 2009, In : Weekly Menu Plan 
Breakfasts
S-6~ muffins
M-7~ eggs and toast
T-8~ cereal
W-9~ oatmeal/malt-o-meal
T-10~ malt-o-meal/banana bread
F-11~ pancakes with cinnamon syrup 
S-12~ cereal/donuts

Lunches
~soup and grilled cheese
~ egg salad, tuna salad, turkey, ham
~ yogurt
~ carrots
~ oranges, apples
~ cookies

Dinners
S-6~ Turkey, corn, green beans, crescents
M-7~ Penne pasta bake, salad, bread
T-8~ turkey and rice soup (recipe from friend to come next Tuesday's Tummy Yummy Recipe)
W-9~ Tina patties, biscuits, carrots, peas
T-10~ turkey p...
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Grocery Cart

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 4, 2009, In : Grocery Cart Challenge Friday 
Because I went to the store Monday I only needed to get sales stuff. I think I did really great at Kroger. If my store ever tripled coupons like other Kroger stores I could've have gotten so much more. But with these two shopping days I will have enough for next week. Check out the next post for my menu for next week.
This weeks TOTAL- only $ 22.67!!!!
That makes me so happy!


 Kroger
Pillsbury Cinnamon rolls (6 @1.00) $6.00
Pils. Grands BIscuits (6@1.00) $6.00
ravioli $1.00
ravioli $1.00
muffin mix(4...
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Dec 3- Start Jesus Tree

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 3, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
Today the kids and I will start our Jesus Tree. It is also known as the Jesse Tree. Many years ago a bible study teacher invited me and a bunch of girls to her house to talk about the Jesus Tree. At that time I had never heard of it, but now I can't even imagine a Christmas without it. 
Jesus has many names in the Bible. If you study the Bible you will see He is in every book. To start your tree, I suggest 
Adornaments(go here to buy it!) from Family Life.(This link will take you to their Chris...
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26 Days of Christmas Activities

Posted by Holly Nelson on Wednesday, December 2, 2009, In : Tip of the Week 
I started this tradition about 10 years ago. With all the busyness Christmas can bring I wanted my kids to appreciate the REAL reason we celebrate Christmas. It is easy to get caught up in the decorating and shopping, but that's not what it is about. So, every day in the month of December until the 26th we do a little activity to keep the Christmas spirit up.
I will post everyday a more detailed example of what we are doing.

December
1- Make salt dough ornaments
2- Start Christmas puzzle
3- Start ...
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Salt Dough Ornaments with pictures!

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 1, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
 This is not so  "Yummy", but it's fun! Everyday after Thanksgiving  until Christmas the kids and I do something extra special for Christmas. Yesterday we made salt dough ornaments. We made this basic recipe but I will do it again later this month, doubling the recipe.
  Tomorrow I will post my tip about what we do everyday to get ready for Christmas.

Salt Dough Ornaments

1 Cup salt
1 Cup flour
1/2 cup hot water
toothpick or skewer
 
1. Mix together and form ball.
2. Roll out on floured surface.
3. Use...
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Browsing Archive: December, 2009

Readers Recipes

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 31, 2009, In : Readers Recipe 
submitted by Andrea R, Houston, Tx

Chalupa

(sourced from college friend-and has previously inspired a bachelor to cook! )

3lb boneless pork roast
2 cloves garlic
1 small can diced chiles
1 lb. pinto beans sorted and rinsed
1 Tbsp. salt
2 Tbsp. chili powder
1 Tbsp. cumin
1 Tbsp. oregano

Put all in pan and cover with water. Cook over low heat for 3 hours (or in crockpot).
Break roast--put on cutting board and shred or cut if too hot.
Put back in pot and cook for an additional hour or until beans are tender....
Continue reading ...
 

Readers Cleaning Tip

Posted by Holly Nelson on Wednesday, December 30, 2009, In : Cleaning Tip 
Submitted by Laura M., Bartlett, Tn

Laura said she found out this trick by accident. And I am so glad she did. I just got a new smooth top cooktop stove. I never realized how hard it was to keep it clean. She said to take a swiffer wet pad, not "Wet Jet" solution, and wipe the surface. It will take off any grease and grime! She said any cheap brand will also do. She goes to Sam's Club to buy the bulk size cheap brand. 

 Other uses:
1. The bathtub
2. Cabinets
3. Tile surfaces, counters
4. Bathroom s...
Continue reading ...
 

Baked Potato Soup

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 29, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
Baked Potato Soup
4-6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
6-8 C chicken broth (canned or leftover from boiling chicken)
1-2 C milk
salt and pepper
Opt- bacon, cheese, sour cream, chives, crackers, cornbread

1. Boil potatoes in broth until tender.
2. Mash with potato masher. Do not mash completely! Leave a few good chunks of potato.
3. Add milk, salt, pepper. Stir together.
4. Serve with crumbled bacon pieces, cheese, sour cream, & chives. And crackers or cornbread. 
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New Years Eve Party! with kids

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 29, 2009, In : Tip of the Week 

New Years Eve Party:

When the kids were young we still wanted to stay home and have a news years party with them. Being young and they couldn't stay up til midnight, so this party started at 6:00. As they have gotten older I have waited til later to start.
After we eat pizza and hot wings here is what I do:
New Years Party: Each hour open a bag and do the activity inside, then it's outside for fireworks. We have 4 bags to open.

 ~1st hour/1st bag: Watch and glowsticks(lots). Put on our watches fo...
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Area Cleaning- Laundry & Office & Holiday Tip

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 28, 2009, In : Area Cleaning for the Week 
Dec 28- Jan 1
       Laundry                                                                 Office
M~ clean gunk under washer lid                                  Clean monitor
T~  look behind washer and dryer for old socks,etc...    organize pens & pencils 
W~ remove cobwebs                                                  Same
T~  Clean windows and window sills                             Same
F~ Sweep/ Vacuum/ Mop                                            Same

Remember, 15 minutes is all it tak...
Continue reading ...
 

Menu Dec 27-Jan 2

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 25, 2009, In : Weekly Menu Plan 
Breakfast:
S-27~ banana bread
M-28~ eggs and toast
T-29~ cinnamon pancakes with cherries and cinnamon syrup
W-30~ brown sugar oatmeal
T-31~ vanilla almond french toast, homemade syrup
F-1- NEW YEARS!! ~ Chocolate gravy and biscuits
S-2~ cereal 

Lunches:
~ egg salad, turkey, pb & j , tuna
~ yogurt
~ fruit
~ chips

Dinners:
S-27~ BBQ chicken, mashed potatoes, peas, biscuits
M-28~ spaghetti pie, salad, bread
T-29~ cheeseburger pie, green beans, crescents
W-30~ steak, potato, salad
T-31~ Pizza and hot wings, PARTY!...
Continue reading ...
 

Grocery Cart $121.17

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 24, 2009, In : Grocery Cart Challenge Friday 
I am posting early because tomorrow I think we all will be a little busy. And I didn't stay as low as I wanted but I had to buy food for the animals, extra stuff for appetizers, and dishes. And I lost my receipt!! I will post a picture and hopefully that will help you.

Walmart  $122.17  ($27.83 under budget)


Dog food not pictured. And look at little Luke trying to sneak away with the batteries! I bought a package that has a small screwdriver that looks like a battery. How clever! 
 And I do feel...
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Christmas Clean Up Tip

Posted by Holly Nelson on Wednesday, December 23, 2009, In : Tip of the Week 
Here are a few tips I have used over the years to keep my Christmas morning sanity. Before, I have lost parts to toys and batteries. Not so much fun for the little one wanting to play with his gift! I've also thrown in time saving tips for you, too.

 Clean Up Tips
1. As you and your family unwrap presents, put all the wrapping paper in a trash bag.
2. If you save ribbon , bows, boxes, or bags: Keep a large Christmas bag and put them in it as you unwrap.
3. As your kids unwrap, have them keep all ...
Continue reading ...
 

Happy Birthday Jesus Cake

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 22, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
I think when you do this with a child , it will finally resonate in their minds what Christmas is all about. When children sing "Happy Birthday", they know it's for someone's birthday. And this is for Christ's birthday! I hope this will be a tradition in your home every Christmas.

Happy Birthday Jesus Cake

chocolate cake mix
white cake mix(opt)
red and green food coloring
white icing
an angel
7 stars
12 candles 
round cake pans
baggies

1. Bake chocolate cakes (will make 2 round pans) and  freeze one for...
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Area Cleaning 21-25 /Bed and Baths

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 21, 2009, In : Area Cleaning for the Week 
*If you have children, have them do these chores for their rooms and bathrooms also this week!!

          Bedrooms                    Baths

M~  change /wash sheets           Wash rugs/ Scrub toilet
T~   clean under bed                   clean under cabinet (straighten linens, toiletries)
W~  vacuum or sweep floor         sweep/vacuum/mop
T~    Add flowers, candle,etc       Add flowers, candle, etc- take bubble bath!   
F~ CHRISTMAS!  ~Put all gifts away in rooms, throw away all paper, break down bo...
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It's My Birthday!

Posted by Holly Nelson on Sunday, December 20, 2009, In : Just Because I said.... 
I received two birthday presents a day early and I am so excited about them so I wanted to share!


First I opened these!! They are new favorite pair of shoes!! I hope these don't make me look fat because I am wearing them anyway!  They are from my momma. We went shopping together around Thanksgiving and she knew I loved these and wouldn't spend the money on myself! They all laughed at how happy I was and joked about me running in them, so I did! Now who's laughing. Okay, everyone was! Because I...
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The Perfect Christmas Picture...?

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 18, 2009, In : It's a BOYS Life! 


These are my boys! Oh, how I LOVE my boys!! Words cannot even describe the joy that leaps in my heart when I think about my boys! 

 This is my favorite picture of them from this whole year!! I'll tell you why. It shows all of their personalities perfectly! 

 This was our "goofy face" picture:
From L to R- counter clockwise- Ian being moody, Luke- picking his nose, his favorite past time, Noah and Seth are obeying me (my mostly obedient children), and Ryan NOT! (my defiant one).

I really wanted th...
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Week of Dec 20-26

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 18, 2009, In : Weekly Menu Plan 
Christmas Week Menu!
 
 Breakfast
S~ pumpkin bread (& Christmas brunch in Bible fellowship class)
M~eggs and toast
T~ cereal
W~ apple cinnamon oatmeal
T~ PB toast
F~ CHRISTMAS!! donut snowmen, chocolate chip pancakes, eggs, biscuits and gravy
S~ chocolate gravy and biscuits,leftover chocolate chip pancakes


Lunches
~ turkey, egg salad, PB and J
~ chips
~ fruit
~ cookies

Dinners
S~ My B'day! Roast, mashed potatoes, green beans, honey crescents
M~ hamburgers, roasted potato wedges, veggie
T~ leftover beef and veg...
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Weekly Grocery Cart- $35.57!!

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 18, 2009, In : Grocery Cart Challenge Friday 
I only spent $35.57...well, kind of. I have the most precious aunt in the world! She sent me a $50.00 gift card to Wal-Mart so I could buy my Christmas baking supplies. I wasn't going to be able to make any candies and goodies this year because of our tight budget. I never knew I could be so excited about Wal-mart! I am not posting my list of what I bought, but I will tell you I bought baking supplies to make oreo truffles(lots!), toffee saltines(lots!), fudge wreaths, iced pumpkin chocolate ...
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Stocking Stuffer Ideas

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 17, 2009, In : Tip of the Week 
Here are a few ideas that I have for stocking stuffers. Some are frugal, some are not. And they are in no particular order. Some can be for kids as well as teens or adults. So, I just mixed them all together. I also like to wrap most of the things I put in their stockings. It gives us more time in the morning!

If you know someone that will not be getting a stocking to open on Christmas morning, this is also a good idea for a present. Buy any kind of  stocking and fill it with a few of the pers...
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Granddaddy Jim's Turkey and Rice Soup

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 15, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
This is a recipe from a friend, Ami McVay. This was the first time I had made her recipe and I messed up from the start. The night I made the turkey I was supposed to cover with water and sit in fridge all night. I left those orders to my hubby as I ran out to a cookie swap. The next day I realized that didn't happen. SO, I had to make due at the last minute. Although I did not follow her recipe exactly I would suggest that you do. It is so much better her way! I didn't have the turkey stock ...
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Baking and Making Homemade Gifts

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 14, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
This week is the last week of school for the boys. Friday are the school parties. I am baking goodies and making bookmarks for teacher gifts. I will try to post with pictures everything I will be baking.
 But, for now, you can check out the Christmas page and click on the recipe pages, scroll down.

I will be adding to these pages all week. 

 Christmas Candies and Desserts 
 
Homemade Christmas Ornaments (You can make a round ornament, with kids picture decoupaged on. or just painted)

Homemade Gifts...
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Are Cleaning- Entrance/Living Room

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 14, 2009, In : Area Cleaning for the Week 
Entrance / Living Room (family room)
      
     Entrance                                Living Room     
M~ Sweep porch and steps           Clear away clutter
T~  Sweep cobwebs                     Straighten bookcase
W~ refill bird feeders                     Polish furniture 
T~ clear clutter                             Purge magazine rack (donate old ones)
F~Clean lights and switch plates -both          
...
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Birthday Party and Christmas Lights

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 11, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
Today is my second sons 11th birthday!! I love birthdays! I love any good reason for a party! So, today we aren't really doing anything "christmassy". He and a few friends are going to play laser tag, and come home for pizza and apple pie. He doesn't like cake, so I'm making his favorite- apple pie! 

Saturday night we are taking all the boys to Shelby Farms here in Memphis. They have the whole park decorated with Christmas lights. I heard this year is fantastic. It's the first year back many y...
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Menu Plan Dec 13- 19

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 11, 2009, In : Weekly Menu Plan 
I have my family in town to celebrate our Christmas together. Saturdays menu is what I will be making for them.

Breakfast
S~ sausage biscuits
M~ Chocolate gravy(make double batch or later in the week) and biscuits
T~ cereal 
W~ brown sugar and cinnamon oatmeal
T~ eggs and toast
F~ vanilla almond french toast with homemade syrup
S~ pancakes: plain and choc.chip with assorted syrups, eggs, bacon, biscuits and gravy, OJ, coffee, milk


Lunches: 
~turkey, ham, egg salad
~chips
~fruit
~no bake cookies


Dinners:
S~ ...
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Grocery Cart

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 11, 2009, In : Grocery Cart Challenge Friday 
This week I had to buy a few things for my sons birthday party. The price is a little higher than I really wanted it to be. But, he is worth it!! I spent an extra $27.56 on pizza that I normally would not buy. I also bought drinks, chips and ice cream for his birthday "pie". He doesn't like cake so I am making him apple pie, his favorite. 

 
Schnucks
root beer $.59
lemon lime  $.59
orange drink $.59
bread $.75
lays chips $1.88
lays chips $1.88
bbq chips $1.88
cheddar chips $1.88
choc. chips $1.79
choc. c...
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Painting ornaments and Parade

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 10, 2009, In : Just Because I said.... 
Todays Christmas activity is quite simple. We are painting the ornaments that we made the other day.  When we paint our ornaments that we made for the Jesus Tree, I make sure I paint the bible verse that goes with it. Go HERE for the list.
 


I also wanted to share a few photos with you. Our oven had been broken for over a month. We were finally able to get a new one, well new to us. Last Saturday was our town's Christmas parade. I knew it was going to be very cold, so I homemade Hershey's Hot C...
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Nativity Treasure Hunt

Posted by Holly Nelson on Wednesday, December 9, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
This idea was taken from the An Advent of Ideas from Christmas Sharing, Product Concept , Inc.

"We saw a star in the East and have come to worship him." Matthew 2:2

 There has often been confusion over these three men who came to visit Jesus. Were they Kings? Magi? Did they visit Jesus on the night he was born or when he was a toddler. What about the strange gifts they brought? Such questions make for good family conversations.

Read Matthew 2:1-12 to learn about the story of the "wise men" who t...
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Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 8, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
This has to be the easiest cookie recipe ever. And it doesn't really call for chocolate chips, but everything is better with chocolate.



Start with this- Spice cake mix and canned pumpkin.



This 



Plus this...



Equals this! YUM!



Pouring a half a bag of chocolate chips is easier. I had to chop chocolate because my chocolate chips were mysteriously missing. HMM?



Scoop a half of a large tablespoon or small teaspoon size, scrapping it on the cookie sheet with another spoon.

You can put them close together b...
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Luke 2 & the Nativity Scene

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 8, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 


Today is very simple. We are going to lay the Bible, open to Luke 2, beside the Nativity Scene. It is a tradition that my husband reads Luke 2 on Christmas Eve. So, either my oldest son or I will read Luke 2 today. We are also going to watch Christmas movies tonight. I suggest the Nativity Story.

Oh, do you see one of the wise men?  He lost his head. He wasn't very wise last year and let my youngest play with him. I'll be super-glueing it today in case you were worried for him.

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Kitchen/ DIning Room

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 7, 2009, In : Area Cleaning for the Week 
Area cleaning Kitchen. Dining Room:
 
 M~ Wash canisters and knick-knacks-both rooms
T~ Wash windows, sill, inside and out- both rooms
W~ Wipe fingerprints off walls and switchplates- both rooms
T~ Clean trash can/ dust bottom of chairs
F~ seep, vacuum mop- both rooms
 
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Kitchen/ Dining Room

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 7, 2009,

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Countdown to Christmas Bible verse chain

Posted by Holly Nelson on Monday, December 7, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
Today the kids and I are making bible verse chains. When we are done making them, they can put their own in their rooms. Sometimes we hang it as garland on their tree, around the door frame(on the inside), around the headboard, or around the dresser mirror. 

Countdown to Christmas Bible Verse Chain

  Write down the words.

  Loop the loops

 All done! Put on fridge!
 
 What you need:
 Desired colors of construction paper
 Marker
 Bible

What to do: 
1. Mark in the Bible 1 John 4:10, Matthew 1:21, 2 Timothy...
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Free activities at Bass Pro

Posted by Holly Nelson on Saturday, December 5, 2009, In : Family Fun 
I had to share this with you. Bass Pro has all kinds of fun and FREE stuff to do during the month of December. Check out their website. You will not be disappointed!!

 Bass Pro Christmas

Free Games
Free Picture with Santa
Free Activities
Free Crafts- Today is the reindeer hat. 
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St.Jude Presents, Parade, and more

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 4, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
This weekend will be busy so I'm posting this early. And I thought it was so great I had to share.
 Saturday's Agenda:
1. Ian's Basket ball game
2. lunch
3. Take Christmas books, coloring books, and crayons to the St.Jude kids.
4. Go to new Salvation Army, Grand Opening Saturday.
5. Christmas cards
6. Arlington's Parade at 4:30 with hot cocoa!*
*I can't find my very warm coat!!

Sunday's Agenda:
1. Worship
2. Afternoon of making large batches of ornaments- Salt Dough and Spice Dough.
* Make a few large, f...
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Jesus' Birthday Box

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 4, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
Today the kids and I are going to make another birthday box for Jesus. Yes, I did mean "another" because the one we have now is falling apart. It is a beautiful Gold wrapping paper to represent Jesus being King of Kings.

 TO MAKE:
 *This is very simple, even for little ones to help.
~ 1 small shoe box
~ wrapping paper
~ pieces of paper
~ pencil
1. Wrap the box in wrapping. Make sure you wrap the lid separately. And put the paper and pencil inside.
2. On the top of box, or on a pretty gift tag write
 M...
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Menu for Dec 6-12

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 4, 2009, In : Weekly Menu Plan 
Breakfasts
S-6~ muffins
M-7~ eggs and toast
T-8~ cereal
W-9~ oatmeal/malt-o-meal
T-10~ malt-o-meal/banana bread
F-11~ pancakes with cinnamon syrup 
S-12~ cereal/donuts

Lunches
~soup and grilled cheese
~ egg salad, tuna salad, turkey, ham
~ yogurt
~ carrots
~ oranges, apples
~ cookies

Dinners
S-6~ Turkey, corn, green beans, crescents
M-7~ Penne pasta bake, salad, bread
T-8~ turkey and rice soup (recipe from friend to come next Tuesday's Tummy Yummy Recipe)
W-9~ Tina patties, biscuits, carrots, peas
T-10~ turkey p...
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Grocery Cart

Posted by Holly Nelson on Friday, December 4, 2009, In : Grocery Cart Challenge Friday 
Because I went to the store Monday I only needed to get sales stuff. I think I did really great at Kroger. If my store ever tripled coupons like other Kroger stores I could've have gotten so much more. But with these two shopping days I will have enough for next week. Check out the next post for my menu for next week.
This weeks TOTAL- only $ 22.67!!!!
That makes me so happy!


 Kroger
Pillsbury Cinnamon rolls (6 @1.00) $6.00
Pils. Grands BIscuits (6@1.00) $6.00
ravioli $1.00
ravioli $1.00
muffin mix(4...
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Dec 3- Start Jesus Tree

Posted by Holly Nelson on Thursday, December 3, 2009, In : Holiday Ideas 
Today the kids and I will start our Jesus Tree. It is also known as the Jesse Tree. Many years ago a bible study teacher invited me and a bunch of girls to her house to talk about the Jesus Tree. At that time I had never heard of it, but now I can't even imagine a Christmas without it. 
Jesus has many names in the Bible. If you study the Bible you will see He is in every book. To start your tree, I suggest 
Adornaments(go here to buy it!) from Family Life.(This link will take you to their Chris...
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26 Days of Christmas Activities

Posted by Holly Nelson on Wednesday, December 2, 2009, In : Tip of the Week 
I started this tradition about 10 years ago. With all the busyness Christmas can bring I wanted my kids to appreciate the REAL reason we celebrate Christmas. It is easy to get caught up in the decorating and shopping, but that's not what it is about. So, every day in the month of December until the 26th we do a little activity to keep the Christmas spirit up.
I will post everyday a more detailed example of what we are doing.

December
1- Make salt dough ornaments
2- Start Christmas puzzle
3- Start ...
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Salt Dough Ornaments with pictures!

Posted by Holly Nelson on Tuesday, December 1, 2009, In : Tummy Yummy Recipe of the Week 
 This is not so  "Yummy", but it's fun! Everyday after Thanksgiving  until Christmas the kids and I do something extra special for Christmas. Yesterday we made salt dough ornaments. We made this basic recipe but I will do it again later this month, doubling the recipe.
  Tomorrow I will post my tip about what we do everyday to get ready for Christmas.

Salt Dough Ornaments

1 Cup salt
1 Cup flour
1/2 cup hot water
toothpick or skewer
 
1. Mix together and form ball.
2. Roll out on floured surface.
3. Use...
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About Me


Holly Nelson Mom to 6 Sons // Saved by Grace // Lover of Chocolate, Laughter, Love, Nature, Camping, Simplicity,and Family
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