tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50011738072097028582024-03-15T20:09:18.608-05:00A View at Five-TwoMiscellaneous tips, tricks, recipes, and money-saving ideas.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.comBlogger125125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-73881293550344118082014-12-14T18:17:00.002-06:002014-12-14T18:24:07.151-06:00December 14, 2014, update! Hope to be blogging again soon!<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The last year has been a year full of changes. I enjoyed blogging very much, but at the time I was a caretaker for my elderly mother, and as her health deteriorated, it became harder and harder for me to blog. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In November 2013, she had a massive stroke and spent weeks in the hospital. Unfortunately, her condition did not improve, and she is now in a long-term care facility. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Life also threw some curve balls. I left my career of 26 years (medical transcription) and became a social worker! I just recently returned from 2 weeks of training in another city, and now that I work 8-5 I'm hoping to have more time to blog.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Thanks again to my followers, and I'll be posting again soon! </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-72472411693003398022013-08-16T08:00:00.000-05:002013-08-16T08:00:04.469-05:00Shelf Life of Household Chemicals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHH5lhYO401tv1ITnILsVLQq-0kueLu0SbhyphenhyphenWlC6MWYsLWHym0ft1AwdPCw5yrxsPtcDZXk7eaAvYFMrhuLaaHhGUUV9TDtApOcUPgoJY6pk_YtRD8YVkspWA8wpzJoTkUu1oNktp3eiM/s1600/2012_1122blog20022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHH5lhYO401tv1ITnILsVLQq-0kueLu0SbhyphenhyphenWlC6MWYsLWHym0ft1AwdPCw5yrxsPtcDZXk7eaAvYFMrhuLaaHhGUUV9TDtApOcUPgoJY6pk_YtRD8YVkspWA8wpzJoTkUu1oNktp3eiM/s320/2012_1122blog20022.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Ever wonder why your favorite cleaning or household product just didn't seem to do the trick any more? Have you added bleach to your laundry whites only for them to come out as grungy as they were when they went in? Get a great deal on dish soap, stock up, and then discover that your dishes aren't getting clean? Your household cleaners might be past their shelf life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Some items will store indefinitely, but other items lose their effectiveness after a period of time. Some of those times are surprisingly short. I began looking into shelf life/storage possibilities when I started avidly couponing and stockpiling. There are some things that I discovered might expire before it could be used, so I keep this information in mind when making my purchases. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Household bleach is an excellent example of this. It has a relatively short shelf life of around 3-6 months. That may seem like a long time, but that is from date of manufacture. Bleach also looses its umph when exposed to heat. So if the bleach was bottled, put onto a semi truck, trucked across the country, then stored in a stockroom of a retail store, it will probably need to be used fairly quickly. The bleach will not look or smell any different; however, if you have used bleach and it just doesn't seem to be doing its job any more, it may very well be outdated. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Keep in mind that it's not as if a bomb goes off inside a bottle or package of an item that it automatically becomes ineffective on a certain date; however, it is a guideline of which to be aware so that you will know whether a product is going to be effective or if it might need to be tossed and purchase something new. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here is a list of other household items and their shelf lives: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Acetone (in nail polish remover): Unopened 1 year; opened 6 months. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Ammonia, household: Indefinite. Will evaporate if left uncapped. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Baking Powder : Indefinitely unopened; 9-12 months opened (Check by adding 1/4 teaspoon to 1/2 cup very hot water. If it does not begin fizzing, it's out of date and will no longer work.) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Baking Soda: Indefinitely unopened; 3-4 years opened however slowly loses its umph the longer it is exposed to air. (Check by adding 1/4 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon vinegar to 1/2 cup very hot water. If it does not begin fizzing, it's out of
date and will no longer work.) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Bath Soap, bar: 18 months to 3 years. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Bath Soap, liquid: 1 year; antibacterial soap loses its effectiveness in about 9 months. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Borax (laundry): Indefinitely, according to the 20 Muleteam Borax website; however, it will clump/lump if opened and exposed to damp or humid conditions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Bleach, chlorine: 3-6 months if unopened; shorter if opened and/or exposed to heat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Castile soap, liquid or bar: Approximately 3 years. (Per Dr. Bronner's website.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Citric Acid, powdered (active ingredient in Lemishine): 3 years from date of manufacture. Will degrade faster with exposure to heat and moisture/humidity. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Coconut Oil: 1-1/2 to 2 years before becoming rancid. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Conditioner, hair: 3 years unopened; 12-18 months if opened. May become rancid if conditioner contains oils and is exposed to heat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Dish Detergent, Liquid or Powder: 1 year unopened; 9-12 months opened. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Fabric Softener, liquid: 2-3 years unopened; 1 year opened. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Fabric Softener sheets: Indefinite though may gradually lose their scent. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hydrogen Peroxide 3% (as sold in drug/retail stores): Good for 1 year unopened but only 30-45 days once opened. (?! Yes, it's true!) It may still fizz but loses its strength over a period of time. The older it is, the weaker it becomes. It also loses its potency with exposure to light, which is why it comes in dark brown bottles. It can last longer if stored in a cool, dark place, but once it begins to lose its fizz, toss it or use it up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Isopropyl (Rubbing) Alcohol: Approximately 1-2 years. There is a belief that this stays good forever; however, that is untrue. It eventually oxidizes via air exposure and turns into acetone. Refer to expiration date on bottle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Laundry Detergent, Liquid or Powder: Unopened up to 1 year; opened 6 months. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lemon Juice, fresh: 2-4 days; 3-5 months if frozen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lemon Juice Concentrate: Up to 6 months in the fridge; 1 year if frozen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Nail Polish remover, acetone based: 1 year unopened; 6 months, opened. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Nonchlorine Bleach (i.e., Clorox2): Up to 1 year unopened, 6 months when opened (contains hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Olive Oil: 2 years unopened, 1 year after opening. Will become rancid. Olive oil becomes cloudy when refrigerated. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Oxygen Bleach (OxiClean): Indefinite if kept in sealed container. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Shampoo: Unopened 3 years. Opened 12-18 months. May possibly become rancid if it contains certain oils. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">White Vinegar/Cider Vinegar: Indefinite. This is why vinegar is used as a preservative for canning. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Washing Soda (soda ash): Indefinite. However, again, if exposed to damp or humid conditions can clump and degrade. *Note, this is different from baking soda and is used specifically for laundry. * </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For a list of 77 items and their expiration dates, check this link: http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/surprising-expiration-dates-10000000676079/print-index.html</span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-86071507262813064942013-07-29T16:59:00.000-05:002013-07-29T19:08:54.315-05:00Homemade Orange Enzyme Cleaner <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkLKV2NTj82yeN-l_NEjMtvVg_2zQR7B6No-0k-g0sG3jMceQands7-Jw0XNaPC0uLJ2zLAQKLOHUFtpHEJBlXvc1R0Kyc1wjXIPNduVKIILyBlX7tEu5U8YKmulX8B_130z4RCo5diY/s1600/orange+cleaner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkLKV2NTj82yeN-l_NEjMtvVg_2zQR7B6No-0k-g0sG3jMceQands7-Jw0XNaPC0uLJ2zLAQKLOHUFtpHEJBlXvc1R0Kyc1wjXIPNduVKIILyBlX7tEu5U8YKmulX8B_130z4RCo5diY/s320/orange+cleaner.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I had a duh moment, and it involves this orange enzymatic cleaner that's been circulating on Pinterest. Every once in a while I see an idea, but I drag my feet because the effort doesn't seem like it is worth it. We finally had a whole bunch of oranges which, of course, generate orange peels, and I decided to give making my own homemade orange enzymatic cleaner a shot. Reusing something and it's natural. Two bonus points! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Most of the recipes I had seen were fairly complicated. Most involved using white vinegar, and some went so far as to add yeast and sugar to this mixture. I decided to take a different route, using clear ammonia instead, and I was thrilled with the results. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This stuff cuts grease like nothing I have ever seen. It's especially great for things like stove tops, vent hoods, and I have also been using as an additive it in my mop bucket to mop my floors. I thought my floors were clean until I started using this! You can literally see the dirt start to rise up and separate before you wipe or mop it away. My mom is so in love with it, that I started her a batch, and she has shared the recipe and great results with others. Here is my version of this awesome cleaning solution: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Homemade Orange Enzyme Cleaner <br /><br />Takes 2 weeks to make but worth it!<br /><br />1 empty jar, the larger the better (I use a 1 quart canning jar)<br />Orange peels enough to fill the jar at least halfway<br />Clear ammonia<br /><br />Place orange peels in jar and cover to rim of jar with clear ammonia. Cap jar and allow to sit in a warm, dark area for 2 weeks. Then, strain orange peels out and put remaining liquid back in jar. (The orange peels will be a gelatinous consistency, and the liquid will be the consistency of syrup. Throw orange peels away.)<br /><br />To make cleaner:<br /><br />Use ¼ to ½ cup orange liquid <br />1 generous squirt of dish soap<br />Water to fill squirt bottle <br /><br />To mop floors, in mop bucket use: <br /><br />Use ½ cup to ¾ cup orange liquid<br />Generous squirt of dish soap<br />Fill with water <br /><br />Mop as usual. No need to rinse. <br /><br />The orange cleaner is *excellent* at cutting grease, especially on stove tops! Plus, it’s a great way to be “green” when you clean. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-42578016817180727352013-07-02T10:37:00.001-05:002013-07-29T20:44:19.577-05:00Frugal Vacationing <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicX2B6rFCOANvSfgGKGLEsOsj6vNR7dkwBZEeRuCfH8v8MamXKpQbUailpLpo5Y5do08iXDcP5F_9X3WXUCZ-tr1fN6uTYZfaYULr22iX0hyphenhyphenMSXpODLRbpGlNCVJ-IOX0xZ5HqnSZuP9k/s1600/DSCF9308_edited-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicX2B6rFCOANvSfgGKGLEsOsj6vNR7dkwBZEeRuCfH8v8MamXKpQbUailpLpo5Y5do08iXDcP5F_9X3WXUCZ-tr1fN6uTYZfaYULr22iX0hyphenhyphenMSXpODLRbpGlNCVJ-IOX0xZ5HqnSZuP9k/s320/DSCF9308_edited-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Everybody loves to take a vacation, but sometimes finances
seem like they may be a hindrance to being able to take one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You CAN take one and have a great time with a
little planning and creativity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We live
for our vacation every summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It's the
one time where we are together as a family without the pressure of everyday
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead, our time is devoted to
fun and relaxation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You don't have to go far.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even a staycation can be fun or, if you really want to go somewhere,
consider a short drive to either another part of your state or another state
that is nearby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As soon as we finish one vacation, we start planning and
saving for the next year's vacation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
decide where we want to go, what we want to see, and then begin planning
accordingly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We put a couple of bucks
aside every paycheck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we do something
like have a garage sale or sell a household item, that goes into the vacation
fund.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have pecan trees, and we sell
the pecans and bank that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We've even
picked up aluminum cans, cashed them in, and put that into our vacation
fund.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It all adds up, even a little at a
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We guard that vacation fund!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We are the outdoorsy types.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We love hiking and getting back in the wilderness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A day
spent hiking back into the woods is the ideal ticket for us, but others might
enjoy being near the ocean, a lake, a river, or out in the desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are my personal recommendations for
what works for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hopefully, you will
find some ideas to spark your imagination and help you plan a fun-filled yet
inexpensive vacation for your family. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Plan your trip near a state or national park/monument.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most offer a flat admission price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That admission includes access to all the
visitor centers, information, hiking trails, guided tours, amphitheater
programs, and sights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some parks don't
charge any fee at all!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our choice, this
year, was Rocky Mountain
National Park in Colorado.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The admission price is $20 per carload, and that is good for one
week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, certain days of the year the
National Park Service has free admission days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Check this link for days:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other parks we visited were Capulin Volcano
National Monument and the
Great Sand Dunes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Rent something with a full kitchen and cook all your own
meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See below on how to pack/take
food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take a pyrex measuring cup and
some cheap measuring spoons, just to be sure (this is what's usually missing
when we rent).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Consider renting a townhome, cabin, or condo during the off
season at a resort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, in
Frisco/Dillon, Colorado
(near many ski resorts), you can rent a luxury condo for as little as
$149/night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Durango,
near Purgatory Ski Resort and Mesa
Verde National
Park, has condos for as low as $105 a night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
it's normally a summer resort, consider going in the winter and vice
versa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Off-season rental prices can be
as much as half or more off the usual price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Pack as much of your own food as possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This may sound daunting, but it's actually
fairly easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make sure that anything
we rent has a grill and/or an oven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
plan meals ahead, make a menu, and then freeze almost everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Examples of freezable items are:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boneless/skinless Chicken breasts, hamburger
meat, hot dogs, steaks, lunch meat, cheese, butter, and bacon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I even freeze milk and use it as my major
chunk of ice in the ice chest (when it is thawed shake the milk for 1 minute
continuously to remix if it separates).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We pack the frozen items into an ice chest, pack it full of ice, and by
the time we arrive, some items are partially thawed and ready to be placed in
the refrigerator to thaw further.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For side dishes, I usually take 5 lbs. of potatoes, cans of
baked beans, packets of rice/noodle side dishes, canned vegetables, and I
usually also pack salt, pepper, sugar, and my own coffee and powdered
creamer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hoard packets or small bottles of condiments to take with
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jif makes single serving packets of
peanut butter that are excellent to take on hikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See if a local restaurant would be willing
to sell you a few packets of individual jellies to take, as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Pack and take nonperishables such as:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Granola bars, Pop-Tarts, trail mix, peanut
butter crackers, bottled water (some local water tastes icky), Capri sun, canned soda, chips, pretzels, and any other
snacks you might want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think ahead:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you're tempted to buy it at a convenience
store on the way, pack it beforehand and save yourself a ton of money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Homemade Chex mix tastes just as good, if not
better, than Chex mix from a convenience store.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Buy whole packages of candy bars for what you'd pay for one on the
road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Buy perishables and other unpackable items at<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a store just outside the area where you will
be staying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Grocery stores near resorts
and tourist attractions tend to be more expensive than in outlying cities, so
stop for your perishables before you get too close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, I am an avid couponer, so in the weeks
before we go on vacation, I start using my coupons to get items I know we'll
need for our trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also keep coupons
for perishables that I know we'll need when we arrive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">On our way to and from, we stay in hotels that offer a free
meal of some sort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Usually
breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our favorite is Holiday Inn
Express.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They offer a free continental
breakfast that includes bacon and eggs, biscuits and gravy, sausage, toast,
bagels, cinnamon rolls, fresh coffee, oatmeal, and fresh fruit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Indulging in this can save you a significant
amount, as even a run to McDonald's can be $20 or more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another place where we stayed offered
continental meals for all 3 meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It's
not gourmet, but it's not half bad, it's free, and it fills you up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Save those discount food coupons you get in the mail for
places like Arby's, Sonic, A&W, Taco Bell, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use those if you must stop for food or hit
the dollar menu.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Pack picnic lunches when you go out. PBJ, lunch meat, bread, chips, and a couple of drinks are all you need for a quick lunch without spending a ton of money. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Redeem any points from websites, credit cards, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I use Swagbucks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make purchases and web searches through
them and earn points.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I then redeem my
points for gift cards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My favorites are
the Walmart E-Gift cards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can print
out the gift card, take it to Walmart, and use it just like a regular gift card
(instructions are on the bottom of the printout).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used my Walmart gift cards to buy a good
portion of the perishables we bought when we got there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hubster has an American Express card that he
uses for business, and at vacation time he redeems his points, as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His favorites are the American Express gift
cards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We use those toward the end of
vacation when we want to treat ourselves to eating out once or twice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Know your destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do web searches to see what local attractions are in your area and what
you can see/do for free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There might be
concerts or plays in the park,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>city
museums, city or state parks, hot
springs, waterfalls, interesting rock formations,
festivals, and other things going on that can be extremely fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The experiences are what you will
remember.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Be sure to stop at local visitor centers and check for coupon books. These may be attached to maps of the area, or be on the backside of flyers and pamphlets that are usually in a cubby nearby. We've found coupons for half off admissions, buy 2 get 1 free admission, percentage off at restaurants and other attractions. Also, if you will be visiting something specific, check their website to see if they either offer coupons or discounts for purchasing tickets in advance. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We drive and pack everything into a regular family car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are pressed for space, devote your
space to taking food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are going
to be gone for a week, pack enough clothes for about 4 days, then pack enough
laundry soap and fabric softener sheets to do a couple of loads of
laundry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of the cabins we rent have
a washer/dryer in them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other times,
there's a laundromat nearby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you wear
clothing only slightly, and it's not sweaty or smelly, then hang it up and wear
it again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don't pack full-size cosmetics
or shampoo/conditioner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most rental
places also usually have a hair dryer available, so it's not necessary to pack
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Skip souvenirs; take pictures instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our one indulgence is T-shirts because we
wear them until they're worn out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each
year we each buy one souvenir T-shirt .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you want proof you visited something, consider stopping and taking a
photo of yourself or your kids near the sign announcing the park, state, or
sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hang onto maps, ticket stubs, and
pamphlets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These make fun additions to
scrapbooks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Consider keeping a diary while you travel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are driving, note gas prices in
various towns, interesting sights, places where you might get lost, funny
things you, your spouse, or your kids do/say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Note if you stop somewhere to eat, what you had, and the prices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This may not seem important, but it can help
significantly on your return trip and helps you remember why you took that
photo of that goofy looking scarecrow in a field.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Take tons of pictures!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most cameras are digital now and can be downloaded to a computer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use free software to edit your photos, such
as Picasa, GIMP, or IrfanView, then upload to some place such as Snapfish,
Shutterfly, MyPublisher, or even local places such as Walgreen's.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before you go, sign up for e-mail newsletters
from photo processing places, and they will often send you coupons/discount
codes for freebies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Walgreen's often has
a coupon for a free photo collage or 8 x 10.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Get free photo books, mugs, photo magnets, etc., and use those for gifts
for grandparents, family, and friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I use interesting photographs, turn them into
black-and-white, and hang them for decorations in our home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Find crazy, out-of-the way places along your route to visit
and counteract boredom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Kansas, there are old salt mines that are now used for
storage of movie archives, called the Kansas Underground
Salt Museum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>http://underkansas.org/<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
are hundreds of wind farms with huge wind turbines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Us this as a teaching opportunity to learn
about alternative energy sources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
we come home, we usually journey through the panhandle of Oklahoma.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There is an area called No Mans Land that was at the heart of the Dust
Bowl Era, and there are hundreds of abandoned homes on the prairie that make
gorgeous photos and have an interesting tale to tell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are the Gloss
Mountains, which are Oklahoma's own version of the painted
desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They look like they are covered
in sparkly, broken glass because of selenite in the soil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>http://www.travelok.com/listings/view.profile/id.3030</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Your vacation can be an adventure and vastly more
entertaining than feeling like you have to go to a resort or some place
touristy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You and your kids (if you have
them) will long remember the hours spent hiking, learning about wildlife, and
discovering interesting rock formations much more than how much money was
spent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are memories that will last a
lifetime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-40265580828759764772013-02-20T06:30:00.000-06:002013-02-20T06:30:00.595-06:00Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbkPre82v5gSGJeBIilFLX9rt-_Z0w51mOVi56W5mo2tY1z89bcWjjpgULBCn41RnOGJTxRmN0h9TR9hu8YlBKh-WwvYS1HWB150AcEOzHs1t-acqgdL_vjVskEaXiSs07bXWTVs6PpnI/s1600/DSCF0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbkPre82v5gSGJeBIilFLX9rt-_Z0w51mOVi56W5mo2tY1z89bcWjjpgULBCn41RnOGJTxRmN0h9TR9hu8YlBKh-WwvYS1HWB150AcEOzHs1t-acqgdL_vjVskEaXiSs07bXWTVs6PpnI/s320/DSCF0008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A couple of days ago, I was craving soup. I love cheese soups, but unfortunately I'm the only one in my household who does like them, so I usually share whatever I make with my mom. Tomato Basil Parmesan soup filled the bill. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It does take a bit of time to make, but the payoff is worth it! It's spicy. It's creamy. It's tomatoey. It's yummy, and it is filling! What's not to like? Plus, it makes a ton of soup, so there is plenty to eat and plenty to share. Serve this with an antipasto side, such as olives and cheese, plus a crusty bread or just good old-fashioned crackers. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> ½ stick butter</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 cup minced onion (about 1 medium onion)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 cup chopped celery (about 4 stalks)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 cup chopped carrots </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 cans (14 to 14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3 cups chicken broth or reconstituted bouillon </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 teaspoon dried oregano</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tablespoon dried
basil </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 bay leaf </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 cans cream of chicken soup </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 can 12 oz. can evaporated milk </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 cup parmesan cheese<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Salt and pepper to taste </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In very large sauce pan, melt butter over medium-low
heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add onion, celery, and carrots and
allow to cook until onions are translucent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Increase heat and add tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, and bay
leaf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cover, bring to boil, then reduce
heat and simmer for 30 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remove
lid and add cream of chicken soup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Blend
well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add milk and blend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add parmesan cheese and blend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cover, reduce heat to low and allow to heat
through for approximately 5 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Salt and pepper to taste. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-24008203572804867242013-02-19T06:30:00.000-06:002013-02-19T06:30:03.670-06:00Easy Spicy Baked Chicken<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgpMrMp8A_AAFdyCVQoo63GREyqTkIgktQzM9S7ybjTBhyphenhyphenPmNYSU_nQBgkwtj6fxe2fln3RQ0MXWB0bPPJXFvOM5qnz-ifvIAIwLb-3p-XBliL2ub3d4_l2lvyG4B9RIp1hjVpz9vjcjw/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgpMrMp8A_AAFdyCVQoo63GREyqTkIgktQzM9S7ybjTBhyphenhyphenPmNYSU_nQBgkwtj6fxe2fln3RQ0MXWB0bPPJXFvOM5qnz-ifvIAIwLb-3p-XBliL2ub3d4_l2lvyG4B9RIp1hjVpz9vjcjw/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Spicy baked chicken is a very versatile dish and one that is so easy to make it should be a sin. We make this in large batches and then store it and use it throughout the week for both hot and cold dishes. The first night we usually eat it with rice, potatoes, and a salad or other vegetables. After that, we may slice it into sandwiches, reheat it and eat it with onions and peppers for fajitas, toss it with greens for an easy salad, or reheat it for a quick hot meal. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We do this on nights when it's crazy around here and want a simple, hearty meal that can be reheated as needed. We work such varied schedules that many times we eat at different times. By making this dish, it's a way that we can make sure we all have a nice meal no matter what time we arrive home. I make my own all-purpose spicy seasoning mix, and combine this with butter or olive oil for a savory seasoning that comes out just right. The chicken falls apart when it comes out of the oven, and there will also be a savory au jus when baking is finished that is a wonderful seasoning for a baked potato, rice, or noodles. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Easy Spicy Baked Chicken </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or as many as you want), cut into 2 inch wide strips </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My all-purpose seasoning (recipe <b><a href="http://viewatfive-two.blogspot.com/2012/12/homemade-all-purpose-seasoning.html" target="_blank">HERE</a></b>) or seasoned salt plus ground black pepper</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Butter or olive oil </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Spray a large baking pan with nonstick cook spray. Coat both sides of chicken strips with seasoning. Place in pan. Either dot with 1/2 teaspoon spots of butter or drizzle with olive oil. Cover pan with foil. Place in 350 degree oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-kj3sI8syNISY15_bXEfti-e0u4QVd11qX3eAKEtvut77Qs5509mpR5X7uOHirBdt2h4TtGV7VoB_1WNGuc94VCKlINgeugPy_fh72c8Tf3ayUV62FFp51rKwkIII-B-Ba5TMxxRHNU/s1600/DSCF0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-kj3sI8syNISY15_bXEfti-e0u4QVd11qX3eAKEtvut77Qs5509mpR5X7uOHirBdt2h4TtGV7VoB_1WNGuc94VCKlINgeugPy_fh72c8Tf3ayUV62FFp51rKwkIII-B-Ba5TMxxRHNU/s320/DSCF0005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-65876574323386543622013-02-17T06:30:00.000-06:002013-02-17T06:30:00.695-06:00Frugal Versus Cheap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOX8UHz6fkbHD2ANe74X10pdCHHsTntPOoenJEtiUVUvQ0bMw1rKlIjgm7mDzYBhuZpYmiPo2SR_n35Dslrh_NHBD-wFJyNplKer-6aIUoW5xmuw8MTRgwgd_weMrTDJ1NdL3dUHhP_60/s1600/f1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOX8UHz6fkbHD2ANe74X10pdCHHsTntPOoenJEtiUVUvQ0bMw1rKlIjgm7mDzYBhuZpYmiPo2SR_n35Dslrh_NHBD-wFJyNplKer-6aIUoW5xmuw8MTRgwgd_weMrTDJ1NdL3dUHhP_60/s320/f1.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugality has become very popular over the last several years due to the economy, job market, and rising cost of things like groceries and utilities. A change in a person's living situation, or simply a desire to be debt free or spend less can set off a chain of events that lead to an examination of lifestyles and ways that money is being spent. Frugality is a mindset. It is a way to look at the money you have available to you, what you desire in your life, and using your resources wisely. Unfortunately, sometimes, people can become overzealous with their frugality and go over to cheap. What's the difference? For some people, it's semantics. One person's cheap is the other person's frugal. My personal definition of cheap is when your actions take away from others or from your or someone else's quality of life. While it's great to save, moderation in all things is best. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So how do you know the difference? Here are some examples below: </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Buying paper
towels on sale with a coupon. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hanging up
paper towels to dry that have been used for “wet only” items. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using a
2-for-1 coupon to purchase meals at a restaurant or splitting a meal.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Failing to tip
the server or only tipping for the 1-meal price. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using
wrapping paper from the dollar store or buying it on sale after Christmas and
storing it. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using
birthday, wedding, or happy anniversary wrapping paper for Christmas because
you’re too cheap to buy more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having a pot
luck meal, making the main entrée, and asking others to bring sides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having a pot
luck meal and assigning things to bring so that you don’t have to do anything
except set the table…. And then keeping the leftovers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Agreeing to
dinner and then splitting the tab. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Agreeing to
split a dinner tab but ordering an expensive meal, drinks, appetizer, and
dessert while the other person bought an inexpensive entrée and drank water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Purchasing an
outfit on sale, at a thrift store, or by using a discount coupon.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Buying an
expensive outfit, wearing it, and then returning it to the store. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Agreeing to
carpool to an event and splitting the cost of gas. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Agreeing to a
carpool and then not chipping in for gas when everyone else does. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Buying
vegetables on sale or that are marked down and close to their expiration date
to be used immediately. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Going home and
exchanging your fresh vegetables you just bought for ones that are starting to
go bad and then taking them back to the store and demanding a refund, claiming
your fresh veggies went bad too quickly.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Buying an
item on sale, and enjoying it to its fullest extent, being sad if that item
tears up or becomes defective after receiving a lot of use from the item. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Buying an
item, using it well, then having it tear up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Going into a store, buying the same item but repacking the well-used and
broken item in the box, claim it’s defective, and then demanding your money
back. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Saving
leftover condiment packages such as ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, etc., from
carryout or drive through meals for later use (i.e., items that were
voluntarily given to you along with your meal). </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Entering a
restaurant and stuffing your pockets with sugar, salt, pepper, plastic
utensils, napkins, ketchup packets, hot sauce packets, etc. (i.e., not given to
you but offered to go along with meals in a restaurant and putting the
restaurant at a disadvantage by taking them).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frugal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using coupons
to get discounts at a restaurant. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cheap:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Going to a
restaurant and asking the cashier to use coupons other people have turned
in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Frugal: Learning to cut your family's hair. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Cheap: Taking your kids to free haircut days at JCPenney, having the kids' heads shaved so they can go 3 months without having a haircut, and then failing to tip the hair stylist. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">These are but a few very real examples of things that people have done in the name of saving money. You have to decide for yourself how far you are willing to go to save money, but keeping the above examples in mind can help decide if you're being truly frugal or cheap. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-31966397463061355822013-02-09T06:30:00.000-06:002013-02-09T06:30:00.577-06:00Homemade Laundry Soap Using Liquid Castile Soap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK7rODBgxK7Wi6m62NiLsIVeD3RvKzznHCi8iYz1I4yEdDsq0wBIEM3MQgfGnl8L1LN8duaHNBPeGq5HbEyUn_jKAyrEWTDtcGA903J_UjdjyiDsszNtCgMMFE9ni5CfJ9LEyfWFEfuqI/s1600/DSCF0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK7rODBgxK7Wi6m62NiLsIVeD3RvKzznHCi8iYz1I4yEdDsq0wBIEM3MQgfGnl8L1LN8duaHNBPeGq5HbEyUn_jKAyrEWTDtcGA903J_UjdjyiDsszNtCgMMFE9ni5CfJ9LEyfWFEfuqI/s320/DSCF0007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Have you ever tried making homemade laundry soap? I have, many times, with varying results. I finally found a recipe that works for me that I'm going to share here. Most recipes use simple, easily obtained ingredients that are sold in either local grocery/department stores or available online. I
like being able to make my own laundry soap because it gives me a sense
of accomplishment that I've made something useful. (I am woman, hear
me roar and all that!) I also like knowing that, in a pinch, if I need
to, I can whip up something to do a load or two of laundry in case I run
out of laundry soap. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've found, however, that homemade laundry soap is one of those things that people either love or hate. They have mixed reasons for trying it. Some people do it for economic reasons, some for environmental reasons, and some for personal reasons such as having sensitive skin. Other people have tried it and rejected it because they felt it didn't clean their clothes well, it didn't smell right, or it was more work than they were willing to do. If you are willing to stick with the process, you can often adjust the ingredients to develop a laundry detergent that works for you and your situation. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Most recipes call for a grated bar of some sort of soap such as Fels Naptha, Zote, Kirk's Castile soap, or Ivory Soap along with water softeners and laundry boosters such as washing soda or borax. Grating a big old bar of soap can be tedious, even with a food processor, because once everything is mixed, most people prefer to run it through the food processor yet again to grind the mixed ingredients into a fine powder. That's kind of pain. If you don't have a food processor, you'll have big curls of soap shavings in your dry mix. That is unless you use the liquid soap recipe. That tends to make a big, gooey bucket of laundry soap akin to slime. However, there are recipes using liquid soap that are very easy to make, work well, and are very gentle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My favorite recipe uses Dr. Bronner's liquid castile soap. It comes together very quickly. It's easily mixed, it's not messy, it's not slimy, and it is has concentrated cleaning power in a very pourable consistency. The recipe is below, with some notes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>HOMEMADE LIQUID LAUNDRY SOAP WITH CASTILE SOAP</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 cup very hot water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 cup Dr. Bronner's castile soap, any scent </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/2 cup washing soda*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/2 cup borax*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 gallon clean, empty container</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">INSTRUCTIONS: Place borax and washing soda in a small pitcher or cup (easier to pour). Add 1 cup very hot water (or more) and stir until washing soda and borax have dissolved. Pour into gallon container. Add castile soap. Do not shake! Cap container and tilt back and forth to mix soap, washing soda, and borax. Remove cap and slowly add cold water until container is full, leaving enough room to mix. Again cap container and tilt back and forth to mix. Allow to cool, shaking periodically to blend. This will be a very thin, watery detergent, but it works very, very well and has a wonderful scent. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you shake the ingredients before filling the container with water, it will make suds. Then when you add the cold water, it may overflow the container. Tilting the container back and forth several times will mix the ingredients without generating suds. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">TO USE: Measure out 1-2 tablespoons of laundry soap into dispenser or bottom of washing machine, and launder as usual. You may need as much as 1/4 cup if there are tough stains or the laundry is extra dirty. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">*NOTE: The standard recipe calls for 1/2 cup each of washing soda and borax. I have found that for our type of water, it is better to adjust the ingredients to be 3/4 cup washing soda and 1/4 cup borax because we have a high calcium content in the water so need a laundry additive that has a higher acidity. If you use the regular recipe and find your clothes are not getting clean, try adding 1/2 cup of white vinegar or 1/2 cup lemon juice to the wash to further soften water and chelate any metals present in your local water supply. </span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-8425614353788530442013-02-07T16:30:00.004-06:002013-02-07T16:30:47.032-06:00Pumpkin Bread - 2 Ingredient Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA80A1Ky_bOhexp01Oz98Uw1d9Rn_U1qN9TaRdPiwI2i26Oo3Npem31KLttKsDNKbRste2mnHmBUsm24jadKijiIgB3fKX6X6TdqQW-23QVI6739kSxeMyQr-G_1pPO6k4sDcH7-R5UwE/s1600/2012_1001Pumpkinbread0001.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA80A1Ky_bOhexp01Oz98Uw1d9Rn_U1qN9TaRdPiwI2i26Oo3Npem31KLttKsDNKbRste2mnHmBUsm24jadKijiIgB3fKX6X6TdqQW-23QVI6739kSxeMyQr-G_1pPO6k4sDcH7-R5UwE/s320/2012_1001Pumpkinbread0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This is a repost as everyone in my family has been very, very sick. I am finally getting back into the swing of things so wanted to repost this scrumptious recipe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm usually skeptical when it comes to certain recipes, particularly
when it comes to baking. Lately, however, I've been fascinated with
recipes that contain only 2-3 ingredients. I love to cook, and I love
simple recipes, but some are a bit too simple. Sometimes taste or
consistency is sacrificed for ease. Well, not with this one! It was
moist, tasty, and oh so easy! </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<b>Pumpkin Spice Bread:</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
1 Package <u>spice</u> cake mix</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
1 Large (29 oz.) can of pumpkin*</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix ingredients well, until all lumps of
cake mix are smoothed out. Pour into a greased 9 x 13 inch pan. Bake
at 350 for 25-30 minutes or until a knife inserted in the middle comes
out clean. Allow to cool completely, then slice and serve with powdered
sugar or cream cheese frosting. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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*I've seen some recipes that say to use the smaller can of pumpkin. I
tried it and did not care for it at all. The batter was more like clay
or putty, and it was nearly impossible to spread in the pan. In my
opinion, the larger can yielded better results. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-56972115772340299882013-02-03T15:40:00.000-06:002013-02-03T15:40:13.997-06:00Homemade Popcorn Chicken/Chicken Nuggets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsfrftxNgPBegvVarbslbbyds53Jjs8j3BcWfAxIoNau93jUqEAFLPQe-62tmEbyfI16E0asJysFelhjw4qqiGyfB49a96ElS5c2196OMycOB3IBj-Ln32pHfPGRKBvgOw7RzvgL9zQ0/s1600/DSCF0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsfrftxNgPBegvVarbslbbyds53Jjs8j3BcWfAxIoNau93jUqEAFLPQe-62tmEbyfI16E0asJysFelhjw4qqiGyfB49a96ElS5c2196OMycOB3IBj-Ln32pHfPGRKBvgOw7RzvgL9zQ0/s320/DSCF0011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Popcorn chicken is something that my family can always agree to eat. Even my son, who is a very picky eater, loves it. You can make a batch of this, and it is excellent so serve for a meal, as a snack, or serve alongside other goodies for a potluck type dinner. We have a local chicken place that makes chicken chunks/nuggets, but they are just a little too big. These are a perfect size to pop in your mouth, especially after dunking them in your favorite sauce. As my son says, "Mom, these are the BOMB!" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This is my own recipe that I developed over time. I know most chefs would say that there is something special about the ingredients, but truthfully I just based them on trial, error, and what tastes good. We like these served with ketchup or honey mustard dipping sauce, but they're also great smothered with gravy alongside mashed potatoes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Homemade Popcorn Chicken</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3-4 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 to 1.5 inch cubes </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1-2 cups milk </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 cups of flour (eyeball it)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 Tablespoons of <a href="http://viewatfive-two.blogspot.com/2012/12/homemade-all-purpose-seasoning.html" target="_blank"><b>my all-purpose seasoning</b></a> or seasoning of your choice</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1-2 teaspoons ground black pepper </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 to 1.5 inches of oil in frying pan (or use a deep fryer) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Instructions and are photos below. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimU55CJCgyDAxMb4_0QIdNWuh-h9eaHj4TTKEc6jVSU-4_FeDWRLx1J_iNE_6MA3uTa6hJUckYqs-ttdsaEl9CPPDYYYZ3n-XrDGSSQG6tndcN_S9mSdPoucqdb4bI7KAQ_zdGzOdM5u0/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimU55CJCgyDAxMb4_0QIdNWuh-h9eaHj4TTKEc6jVSU-4_FeDWRLx1J_iNE_6MA3uTa6hJUckYqs-ttdsaEl9CPPDYYYZ3n-XrDGSSQG6tndcN_S9mSdPoucqdb4bI7KAQ_zdGzOdM5u0/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cut chicken into 1 to 1.5 inch pieces (no bigger). Place them in a large flat container. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72Hu2KSAd7OMfHE6l2sJD6NXunjBR4Wa2aoCVQ7Y97PBYUNHVYrXXcNRcSyNrJLY-NG7gGWA4kYK3doDNwe4EdsUgdMz2hVIyTf64RjJX-gdsRXV_jjEz5I4VAG81nhMNoZHmINaml1k/s1600/DSCF0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72Hu2KSAd7OMfHE6l2sJD6NXunjBR4Wa2aoCVQ7Y97PBYUNHVYrXXcNRcSyNrJLY-NG7gGWA4kYK3doDNwe4EdsUgdMz2hVIyTf64RjJX-gdsRXV_jjEz5I4VAG81nhMNoZHmINaml1k/s320/DSCF0003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Pour in approximately 1-2 cups of milk. Eyeball it, as the chicken just needs to be covered so that it can soak for a bit in a milk bath. (<i><b>Discard milk after all chicken has been removed from it. Do NOT reuse this milk!</b></i>) </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsikomQRNR4Oe4z4KQKHug0FDm3L1PRHPTDUCj5dxTY8_M31EnUiAolQx2bDXzrpIHGjkZQkGF_yw5rwKyJp0uJSOqTsghd6GUaVUNhTtUXNRbQObdP8kJTBKSb9zzlz5ZfrXnduGuKPY/s1600/DSCF0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsikomQRNR4Oe4z4KQKHug0FDm3L1PRHPTDUCj5dxTY8_M31EnUiAolQx2bDXzrpIHGjkZQkGF_yw5rwKyJp0uJSOqTsghd6GUaVUNhTtUXNRbQObdP8kJTBKSb9zzlz5ZfrXnduGuKPY/s320/DSCF0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">While chicken is soaking, add oil to skillet (or turn on deep fryer) and allow oil to heat until a droplet of water flicked into the oil sizzles and turns to steam. In another flat pan place flour, all-purpose seasoning, and black pepper. Blend. </span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gldvx5DPSMAKSmDepsg93gg6oDblk1p9qfYqUA9kzo0nMtbVPZwBU9Lzv2U03-J9RYhlUOTVEhsiHlInEmTkgycXMIKZBEu2qA-HCizI2uv4ZNWsMOlvmOSDGTLMzu0MFNq7D01TLi8/s1600/DSCF0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gldvx5DPSMAKSmDepsg93gg6oDblk1p9qfYqUA9kzo0nMtbVPZwBU9Lzv2U03-J9RYhlUOTVEhsiHlInEmTkgycXMIKZBEu2qA-HCizI2uv4ZNWsMOlvmOSDGTLMzu0MFNq7D01TLi8/s320/DSCF0007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When oil is heated, take pieces of chicken from the milk, place them in the flour mixture, and coat well. Then fry batches of chicken in oil. Allow to cook 2-3 minutes, and then flip chicken pieces over so that both sides cook well. Remove when chicken is a light golden brown. Place on paper towels to drain and soak up any excess oil. The color will deepen to a darker brown when removed from oil and allowed to cool. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxxpUo38j6jCcP_HYu8lrUoAIUb7KnPhgx74_VDc-jMIPbWNfx7tBr3C67ttlnBTMIbZqiOWFNK2NSNVVfppc9ziEnRfB0C3vlTmVRojiDjHxtVDgd3VSu7jYd42_YeVCly4VIpAtuyA/s1600/DSCF0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxxpUo38j6jCcP_HYu8lrUoAIUb7KnPhgx74_VDc-jMIPbWNfx7tBr3C67ttlnBTMIbZqiOWFNK2NSNVVfppc9ziEnRfB0C3vlTmVRojiDjHxtVDgd3VSu7jYd42_YeVCly4VIpAtuyA/s320/DSCF0008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">And there you have them. Tender, golden, bite-sized chunks of yumminess just waiting to be popped into your mouth and enjoyed. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOlhUj2RHLQdAWS1FyUgIzWi019BX8gUO8d74ojmRIhqQiLqjJRp0zSTHhLWgrCgIo59NHQ_PMA0_t6tsahFevQFBoqWNZlGgkoZoL-MmKEkpX4kBkHE7X_rvOT8tmoATl3WZFLuK61mk/s1600/DSCF0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOlhUj2RHLQdAWS1FyUgIzWi019BX8gUO8d74ojmRIhqQiLqjJRp0zSTHhLWgrCgIo59NHQ_PMA0_t6tsahFevQFBoqWNZlGgkoZoL-MmKEkpX4kBkHE7X_rvOT8tmoATl3WZFLuK61mk/s320/DSCF0010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-8042921653379668542013-01-29T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-29T06:30:03.124-06:00Soap Nuts for Laundry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJykoMFkVRm0HdJSzSEn97id7Eg0hgfOwQxnavoiRaJeqi9Y1tqbxUO19cN1Y-KwTA7CqTklQI7h4AX4IsdkCBCM0myulVG2P3cRNShnt_Ge7lwbH3L_k_nLIsIUEowsiV66Fxjo6Izew/s1600/DSCF0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJykoMFkVRm0HdJSzSEn97id7Eg0hgfOwQxnavoiRaJeqi9Y1tqbxUO19cN1Y-KwTA7CqTklQI7h4AX4IsdkCBCM0myulVG2P3cRNShnt_Ge7lwbH3L_k_nLIsIUEowsiV66Fxjo6Izew/s320/DSCF0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am always searching for new ways of doing things, less expensive things, things that are also ecologically friendly, and things that are just awesome. Soap nuts are delightful natural cleaning product that is excellent for use in the laundry or for making all-natural cleaning products! Ever since I saw mention of them on an internet forum which I visit, I've been curious, so I did some research and decided to give them a try. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Soap nuts are berries, or technically a drupe, from the Sapindus tree or shrub (<i>Sapindus Mokorossi)</i>. They grow naturally in the Himalayas and produce saponin. That is a natural surfactant that changes the surface tension of water and allows the water to get into the fibers of clothing, break down dirt, and <a href="http://econutssoap.com/what-are-soap-nuts/" target="_blank"><b>float it away</b></a>. If you use soap nuts in your laundry, there are no suds. Instead, the dirt breaks down, the water looks dirty, but the clothes are clean. The dirt simply goes down the drain with the rest of the waste water. There is no smell/scent, and soap nuts are very gentle, so they're perfect for baby clothes, diapers, or for those who have sensitivities to soaps, detergents, or fragrances. They are "green," eco-friendly, and are safe for septic and sewage systems. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The best part is that you can get multiple uses from just a few of the berries. They can be reused up to 10 times before they disintegrate and need to be replaced. Just remove the berries from the load of laundry once it's finished, leave them in their bag, allow them to dry, and reuse with your next load. When the berries become very thin and crumble, it's time to replace them. </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I bought my first batch of soap nuts from Amazon. I had a $5 credit that was burning a hole in my pocket, so I purchased the 100 load box of <a href="http://econutssoap.com/" target="_blank"><b>Eco-Nuts</b></a>. It's a relatively small box packed full of these shiny, brownish-tan dried berries, along with 2 muslin sacks in which to place the berries. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmvqXPK2nNomFmsIuM4Fz39l-iUsfkcjV-pjy6pVe6_L11KsRQODeLLCCJmEgfDL3hh9T_QvETpu6046wIrgvdCuSGr_7ZYHDt0unaonY1mfdbfFQuIXQM4G_KvqT2puXbA5YV3eWHFUY/s1600/DSCF0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmvqXPK2nNomFmsIuM4Fz39l-iUsfkcjV-pjy6pVe6_L11KsRQODeLLCCJmEgfDL3hh9T_QvETpu6046wIrgvdCuSGr_7ZYHDt0unaonY1mfdbfFQuIXQM4G_KvqT2puXbA5YV3eWHFUY/s320/DSCF0002.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I just tried my first load of laundry, and I must say that I'm impressed! The clothes came out clean, soft, and scent free straight out of the washing machine. I did add a Gain fabric softener sheet to the dryer. This is not necessary, as the saponin in the berries acts as a natural fabric softener; however, I have guys in my household, and let's just say that sometimes you NEED scented laundry. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The berries work best in hot water or warm water but will also work
in cold water, although there may not be as much saponin released. So if you want to do a load of laundry in cold water but want to make sure there's enough saponin to ensure a clean load, try soaking or steeping the bag of berries in a cup of hot water for about 10 minutes prior to starting the wash load. Then add the entire batch of water plus the bag containing the berries to the wash and proceed as usual. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Overall, I thought they worked very well for a first- time use, and I am curious to see how well they work using them numerous times. Regardless, this is a very economical and eco-friendly way to do laundry! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxL-6Yy3rz_R4WfyCvQ0JdrPyiWBwfzzINgohyphenhyphenS2D6QvU4GvrgavafxQ3kgAGWQebcwWkP6DJVQ2AnkT6afWdKMaWPwh19HKu6oW9evOJIeIpDk03_n-6l2x9tntK-u5iR1yvhuHaZNjQ/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxL-6Yy3rz_R4WfyCvQ0JdrPyiWBwfzzINgohyphenhyphenS2D6QvU4GvrgavafxQ3kgAGWQebcwWkP6DJVQ2AnkT6afWdKMaWPwh19HKu6oW9evOJIeIpDk03_n-6l2x9tntK-u5iR1yvhuHaZNjQ/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-2176749155884725042013-01-27T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-27T06:30:00.323-06:00Laundry and Dishwashing Additives to Help Combat Hard Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh-yUiwEIMsn4d0i99YImg7TKCwouw2O5LjKzdbyYj1gLEJOOjBjn-RcwjWzhBXhIIZaqVBmHlUZO07qShK4OgoWKcvpUq5idshJgKb3Ugy34Lm47kMoFURWkqhEy0XLCAAObzJdykOqo/s1600/white+stone+path.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh-yUiwEIMsn4d0i99YImg7TKCwouw2O5LjKzdbyYj1gLEJOOjBjn-RcwjWzhBXhIIZaqVBmHlUZO07qShK4OgoWKcvpUq5idshJgKb3Ugy34Lm47kMoFURWkqhEy0XLCAAObzJdykOqo/s320/white+stone+path.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Have you ever done a load of dishes in the dishwasher only to have them come out spotty and with bits of food still on them after using your favorite dishwasher detergent? Or have you done a load of laundry only to discover that your items just were not as clean as they need to be? It's not a problem with your dishwasher or your washing machine. It's also not a problem with your favorite dishwasher soap or laundry detergent... well, not technically. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In 2010, a ban went into effect prohibiting the use of phosphates in dishwasher detergent. It began in 17 states. The phosphates were getting into the water supply and causing the growth of algae, so they were banned. (Link <a href="http://news.consumerreports.org/home/2010/07/phosphate-ban-dishwasher-detergents-phosphorous-level-review-of-best-dishwasher-detergents-cleaning-.html" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>.)However, because of the expense associated with trying to manufacture one type of detergent for some states and a different type of detergent for other states, the manufacturers made the decision to just make one type of dish detergent: phosphate free. Phosphates were removed from laundry detergents in 1993. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's a win for the environment, but it's a loss for trying to get your dishes and laundry clean. Trisodium phosphate is a degreaser, soap scum buster, and left sparkling clean dishes and fresh laundry. Unfortunately, once that was removed from these soaps, things were not good. Pans came out dingy, aluminum turned black, fingerprints and lipstick were still present on dishes and glasses. Some laundry soaps left clothes looking like they'd not even been washed. Water could have done as good a job. What's worse, if you live in an area of the country that has hard water, your dishes may have begun showing a filmy, milky, powdery residue, and your whites may have begun to be dingy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What can a person do? Short of adding trisodium phosphate to these soaps, there are other options for combating these problems. They are additives that can combat the minerals, metals, and other compounds found in water, allowing the detergents and soaps to do their jobs. Here are some of them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Citric Acid</b> -Citric acid is what makes lemon juice tart. It has many uses not only in cleaning but in food and food preservation. For cleaning, it serves as a chelating agent, binding to minerals and especially metals in hard water. It makes an excellent additive to both the washing machine and the dishwasher. It is the main active ingredients in dishwasher rinse aids such as LemiShine (If you want to read a fun chemist's breakdown of LemiShine, read the link <a href="http://www.chemistry-blog.com/2012/05/18/whats-in-lemi-shine/" target="_blank">HERE</a>.) Add 1-2 tablespoons to laundry to help laundry get cleaner, or add 1-2 teaspoons to your dishwasher for crystal clear glassware and spot-free dishes. You don't have to buy LemiShine. Instead, you can buy straight citric acid from places like Amazon.com, or find it in the canning aisle of your favorite grocery store, although buying it that way is quite expensive. You can also buy it in bulk from Soap.com. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Lemon Juice</b> - Nature's own citric acid. (See note above.) Add 1/4 cup to your laundry or dishwasher. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>White Vinegar</b> - Acetic acid in water. This is an excellent mild acid that <a href="http://www.sophisticatededge.com/why-does-vinegar-dissolve-calcium.html#.UQRatfL4ajY" target="_blank">dissolves calcium and makes it water soluble</a>. It is excellent for adding to laundry to increase the water's acidity. It breaks down minerals contained with hard water, and it also helps to dissolve any residual soap scum left from laundry. It is an excellent substitute for a fabric softener by adding it to the final rinse of a load of laundry. Use anywhere from 1/2 to 1 full cup. It is also a wonderful substitute for spotfree treatments in your dishwasher. Just fill the rinse compartment with white vinegar and use as you normally would the rinse solution. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Washing Soda</b> - Sodium carbonate or soda ash. Not to be confused with baking soda, which is sodium <i>bi</i>carbonate.
Sodium carbonate bonds with magnesium and calcium ions in hard water
and prevents them from bonding with detergent. This allows the
detergent to do its job and for your clothing to get cleaner. It also
raises the pH of water. If you're a pool owner, you are familiar with
The pH Plus product sold in stores to raise the pH. Raising the pH also
allows detergents to clean better. (Link <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium_carbonate" target="_blank">HERE</a>.) Add approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup to your laundry to help soften water and achieve better detergent results. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Borax</b> - S<span class="st">odium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate. </span>Prevents calcium and magnesium from binding with detergent and rendering it ineffective. (Link <a href="http://www.20muleteamlaundry.com/detergent-booster/boost-your-detergent/" target="_blank">HERE</a>.) However, unless you use hot water, borax can be difficult to dissolve and can leave powdery granules in your washing machine, so it may not be your first choice to use if you have hard water.</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-62004577561927713652013-01-25T06:42:00.000-06:002013-01-25T06:42:05.081-06:00Using Reason When Following Blog Posts <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6vTZPigcAbVzEMKarKZMlBX3fBngg1h5mGwan2KDz_LDaQAJAIGbiiDgzbHk6ZjT6NOZ1U4UhyphenhyphenpKM7qcu1_j5j63NxwJZmsfEr5m8DZbIm9QByzNndMK4CO2WBWkD_L78XsgCKhCpe80/s1600/quotes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6vTZPigcAbVzEMKarKZMlBX3fBngg1h5mGwan2KDz_LDaQAJAIGbiiDgzbHk6ZjT6NOZ1U4UhyphenhyphenpKM7qcu1_j5j63NxwJZmsfEr5m8DZbIm9QByzNndMK4CO2WBWkD_L78XsgCKhCpe80/s1600/quotes.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have several bloggers and websites that that I follow, and I enjoy their posts and insights. I am particularly fond of do-it-yourself or make-it-from-scratch posts. I like the thrill of making something that is just as good as or comparable to something that is store bought. It's even more thrilling if that item is significantly less expensive than store bought. However, I've noticed a few things about some of these blogs. The bloggers and writers find an idea on the internet, and they repeat it. On and on and on. If you were to do an internet search about making an item and use your favorite search engine, you will find post after post all repeating the same "recipe" or idea. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Very few posts show much research to go along with the post. No links to what an ingredient does, what purpose the whatchamacallit serves, how it mimics another product, etc. In some posts, the recipe or item du jour seems like it would be a good idea but hasn't been truly tested. Yet it gets passed on. One blogger posted it, people raved about it, and then the next blogger posted it to rave reviews, and so on. These posts talk about how brilliant the idea is, but there are very few commentators who actually post AFTER they tried whatever is mentioned in the post. If they do, most are met with criticism and backlash from other commentators or even the writer of the post. How dare they not follow the crowd?!! Also, oftentimes a blog post may not be complete but simply links back to an original post on another blog. I understand doing that. We all want to give credit where credit is due and avoid presenting an idea as our very own. That's honorable. However, many times the reposter hasn't tried the idea/item. They just think it sounds neat so posted the idea themselves with a link back to the original. It's as if back linking absolves them of any responsibility if the item/technique/recipe/whatchamacallit doesn't work. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's easy to jump on a bandwagon, though. A reader looks at all those positive comments, rave reviews, and kudos for a popular post and thinks that it MUST be true. It MUST work. Sometimes a post is believed even when a reader has this little niggling doubt in the back of his/her mind. That little voice might be saying, "This doesn't sound right," but we see all these positive comments and praise. Then we shove that little voice aside and jump right in. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My advice? Listen to that voice!! Do NOT take what is on a blog as gospel truth. Be skeptical. Seek truth. Research! Even for MY POSTS here, please, be skeptical. I am not an expert nor is anyone else out there unless they have a Ph.D. in whatchamacallits along with 40 years experience. While I try to research and show my own personal outcomes via photos and such, some bloggers don't. They repeat prior posts, and oftentimes don't show failures. It takes other blogs showing failures to get an idea of how well some of these things <i>don't </i>work. I can also personally attest to the fact that just because it appeared on a blog doesn't mean it really works! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I can think of two recent examples. The first is a post by a local blogger/website owner that explained how to make your own fabric softener. This recipe called for vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. The directions said to mix the vinegar and baking soda, wait until the bubbling stops, then add the essential oils for scent. Store this concoction in a glass jar, then add to your laundry for a clean, fresh, softening scent in the place of liquid fabric softener. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sounds great and easy, right? But wait! Have you ever mixed baking soda and white or cider vinegar? Besides creating a great volcano of froth and foam, do you know what you have left when the chemical process stops? <i><b>Water</b></i>. That's right. Water with a very small amount of sodium acetate. <a href="http://everydayeinstein.quickanddirtytips.com/vinegar-and-baking-soda.aspx" target="_blank"><b>Here is a great article from <i>Everyday Einstein</i></b></a> that explains this process and how, really, you're not accomplishing much other than making some really neato, very mildly buffered water that has some smelly-good stuff in it. You could have saved yourself some time and just put the essential oils in the laundry, but that wouldn't be as fun! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Now, sometimes this bubbling/volcanic action is what you're looking for. It's great for unclogging a drain, and it's also great for getting stains out of clothing or carpeting. The bubbling action can work debris loose as a prewash. I have no problem with that. It's the implication that the processed solution does anything snazzy. Because, after all, you just created water, albeit fizzy water, and water is the best cleaner of all! It was just created in a rather spectacular way. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Then I saw another post from another popular online blogger talking about how Epsom salts combined with essential oils makes a great substitute for Purex scent crystals. <b>NO!!!</b> Dear sweet crying baby Jesus... no! Purex crystals contain scent, sodium chloride (table salt), <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentonite" target="_blank">bentonite (clay)</a>, and color. List of ingredients <a href="http://www.purex.com/products/softeners/purex-complete-crystals" target="_blank">HERE</a> (click on the +fragrances, sizes, and ingredients link). Epsom salts are made up of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnesium_sulfate" target="_blank">hydrated magnesium sulfate</a>. As you can see, Purex crystals and Epsom Salts are <i>definitely not</i> the same! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you add Epsom salts to water, you are, in essence, creating hard water. Hard water contains calcium and magnesium and other dissolved minerals and metals. Your detergents, soaps, and other things you add to your laundry to get items clean <i>will not work very well in hard water. </i>Why would you want to create hard water? Especially if you already have hard water? Adding Epsoms salts to the laundry will do just that! It will worsen an issue, not make it better. With a little research, the blogger would have known that. However, there was the post, bigger than daylight, with all these comments praising the brilliance of this new use for an old product. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">These are just two examples of blog posts that look like they are fantastic but when researched reveal that they either won't do much, if anything, and might even make things worse. Why these bloggers, both of whom are very popular, failed to actually research is beyond me. Now, maybe they just like what they made and like using it. That is perfectly fine. I'm all for it because everyone has a right to do as they please. However, I think it's also a great example of reader beware. Just because you read it on the internet doesn't make it true! </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-52565177590650666592013-01-24T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-24T06:30:04.268-06:00Beer Bread - Broke Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX1mruxEjl-Orn8nrf7VG-M2fYu0WfB8hF_1z6B36eV1qskibNnpH2X5Cplolj8QPiPkUo-chOmC8s5-dBjGc03QItdAZQYsbLEWcbAY-h2c_AMvmkKzaS5eTNBp52_5q6faY7559J514/s1600/DSCF0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX1mruxEjl-Orn8nrf7VG-M2fYu0WfB8hF_1z6B36eV1qskibNnpH2X5Cplolj8QPiPkUo-chOmC8s5-dBjGc03QItdAZQYsbLEWcbAY-h2c_AMvmkKzaS5eTNBp52_5q6faY7559J514/s320/DSCF0002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Beer bread is an excellent quick bread that has just a few ingredients. Bake it, allow it to cool, and it is great to have with sandwiches or make an egg batter and turn it into French toast. We like this as just a bread to snack on with real butter and honey. It also is a great budget stretcher if you're coming up on the end of the week and need bread to go with meals or make sandwiches. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The recipe calls for Bisquick, but you can also use a substitute for that, which I will list below. There are only 3 ingredients (my favorite kind!), and it's easy to whip up a batch and have it ready for your next meal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Beer Bread </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">4 cups Bisquick (this equals one 20 oz. box)*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">4 teaspoons sugar </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 12 oz. can of beer</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">*If you do not have Bisquick, use 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 Tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Mix ingredients in a mixing bowl until it forms a sticky batter. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzbD-lFJtx6k-yLMkDYw1lGGzYa1bzf22ndYEDetFG16SLWEYVPocli0KOhy2_znb04uO7t2LzZMDweMELWVZjTBvYzjEyrYkzQTvYe3zpWn9tW6o5BXqAE6y1kUIf_oDxh6NVrVvChnY/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzbD-lFJtx6k-yLMkDYw1lGGzYa1bzf22ndYEDetFG16SLWEYVPocli0KOhy2_znb04uO7t2LzZMDweMELWVZjTBvYzjEyrYkzQTvYe3zpWn9tW6o5BXqAE6y1kUIf_oDxh6NVrVvChnY/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Pour into a loaf pan and allow to set for approximately 30 minutes. This may or may not rise. Your mileage may vary. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlkt05yGYbg1pnXfD9IlvsZujTaWnPoLw9WDaiLYoEX8L9bUBudNvvUzmUDOUUJhmopgyMCdAlaxu0BmOh5oePJe9HDynbDIZjkCh_wMyLj_Erraun1vcpQBKHlBlHFGXiwXskOo-aQE/s1600/DSCF0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlkt05yGYbg1pnXfD9IlvsZujTaWnPoLw9WDaiLYoEX8L9bUBudNvvUzmUDOUUJhmopgyMCdAlaxu0BmOh5oePJe9HDynbDIZjkCh_wMyLj_Erraun1vcpQBKHlBlHFGXiwXskOo-aQE/s320/DSCF0002.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Bake at 375 degrees for approximately 30-40 minutes or until loaf has risen and turned a golden brown. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcs8MCtUgGim1s0RA8wThxSnV1X3d1Eu-aKgFzBsA15cdptJpdTxwFlIYManm4kudB4KOOqedjc3qKgiCwAt4InA_h2M53V6OS_vPhaYqs5Fn4VtAZsuhwU9fzXfy5cUIiJZhpoyXrhFM/s1600/DSCF0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcs8MCtUgGim1s0RA8wThxSnV1X3d1Eu-aKgFzBsA15cdptJpdTxwFlIYManm4kudB4KOOqedjc3qKgiCwAt4InA_h2M53V6OS_vPhaYqs5Fn4VtAZsuhwU9fzXfy5cUIiJZhpoyXrhFM/s320/DSCF0005.JPG" width="282" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Allow to cool for approximately 10-15 minutes, then remove from pan and allow to cool completely before slicing. </span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-46317054556763501852013-01-23T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-23T06:30:02.215-06:00Homemade Aromatic Rub Like Vicks Vapor Rub<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjO93V210iEk3kimBh2WyF7aFHcF0FBN5Jz5nGV3m_obeuMx1lmHCmew6DrRGJYvGSAjwsn-DkT7cx77l_7L1VJip74eOquH-pOSJypLiK4TIum_lxIJ37y7oMBsUSUIZuG4VTl1BL_c/s1600/DSCF0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjO93V210iEk3kimBh2WyF7aFHcF0FBN5Jz5nGV3m_obeuMx1lmHCmew6DrRGJYvGSAjwsn-DkT7cx77l_7L1VJip74eOquH-pOSJypLiK4TIum_lxIJ37y7oMBsUSUIZuG4VTl1BL_c/s320/DSCF0003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Normally I make things from scratch because they are less expensive. However, sometimes I make them out of necessity. Such is the case with this aromatic rub. Our entire family has been ill. I've had a respiratory illness, my hubster had it, and then our son got it. While we were using lots of good old fashioned Vicks Vapor Rub, nobody had time to get any from the store! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Homemade to the rescue! I looked up the ingredients for the original, and discovered that they consisted of camphor, menthol (peppermint), and eucalyptus in a petroleum base. A ha! I had all that! I mixed some up, experimented with quantities, and came up with a mixture that looked, smelled, and worked exactly like the name brand stuff. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN-v_NwIgTOeKwMofy3vXxd5tEL9CkZyGDREdBwgUR3PdL5WrrBHeKD6JirIJIUp_ejCErjM4cMp5Zocp2-re1FJ-Qiro08LFGY9Lmy4huEl09bqKpL_QPJTBNtharMR-l2qNiuuS1P2Q/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN-v_NwIgTOeKwMofy3vXxd5tEL9CkZyGDREdBwgUR3PdL5WrrBHeKD6JirIJIUp_ejCErjM4cMp5Zocp2-re1FJ-Qiro08LFGY9Lmy4huEl09bqKpL_QPJTBNtharMR-l2qNiuuS1P2Q/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="282" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like this because you can add as much or as little of the scent as you like. If you find the name brand is too strong, you can cut back slightly on the oils and then add them in a mixture that is pleasing to you. I have known people who have also substituted lavender, rosemary, or other oils for the camphor listed because they liked a different scent. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Homemade Vapor Rub: </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Approximately 1/4 cup unscented petroleum jelly (like Vaseline)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">10-12 drops eucalyptus essential oil</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">10-12 drops peppermint oil </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/8 teaspoon Campho-Phenique ointment or liquid (this is camphor and makes it more authentic)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">OR </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">10-12 drops rosemary essential oil </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In a microwave safe bowl, microwave the petroleum jelly in 30 second increments, stirring until melted. When melted enough, add essential oils and stir well to combine. Pour into container, place lid on, and allow to cool. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Use as you would Vicks Vapor Rub! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">Medical Disclaimer: This post is not a substitute for medical care, advice, or consultation. Please use these recipes and tidbits with common sense, and please be aware of your own allergies and sensitivities and use (or don't use) accordingly. Thank you! </span> </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-71103681010552237872013-01-22T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-22T06:30:04.625-06:00Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcCcJrh56P_N892sF0hjjY3qnY6WTWgTMUEEqCkmiVpb0iAdekIiMY5q4ureNWYZMfcpYYaOOTWIV5gMci2yzt89QS6iHDm9BZXxqsIcwsHpwWD0D0okJpu5CduKOZqjQhC4F5bXqVtQ/s1600/DSCF0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcCcJrh56P_N892sF0hjjY3qnY6WTWgTMUEEqCkmiVpb0iAdekIiMY5q4ureNWYZMfcpYYaOOTWIV5gMci2yzt89QS6iHDm9BZXxqsIcwsHpwWD0D0okJpu5CduKOZqjQhC4F5bXqVtQ/s320/DSCF0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I love broccoli cheese soup. It's warm, it's comforting, it's tasty, and it makes a great lunch. I have seen so many recipes that call for an elaborate cooking process for making this yummy soup. Upon examining the ingredients, I discovered that it was a cream soup base with broccoli, cheese, and other spices added in. It didn't take me long to figure out there was an easier way! So here it is. My "recipe" for easy broccoli cheese soup. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">And it has only two pre-packaged ingredients! Actually three if you include the milk. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4w_YvpyWSacoeBXdSpF5BJ5llCsR22E2PHczVxLgAoAvJYH60mYsMNDxAuavhPfnPRlSDUQK_d9eCM42jFy5USpTJdLaJFqiKAgOzABE6UQKlpF1T4zZ_Ci3Bd8lCxuo1QW7NfV_wd2A/s1600/DSCF0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4w_YvpyWSacoeBXdSpF5BJ5llCsR22E2PHczVxLgAoAvJYH60mYsMNDxAuavhPfnPRlSDUQK_d9eCM42jFy5USpTJdLaJFqiKAgOzABE6UQKlpF1T4zZ_Ci3Bd8lCxuo1QW7NfV_wd2A/s320/DSCF0002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here's how it you make it. You use the two items shown above. Yes, that's really it! It's so easy, and it tastes wonderful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>EASY BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 box frozen broccoli and cheese sauce (10 oz.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 can cream of chicken soup (10 oz.) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 can milk </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Milk to thin to desired consistency </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Microwave broccoli and cheese sauce as directed on package. While that is cooking, in a medium saucepan over low heat, begin preparing cream of chicken soup. I recommend using milk because water will make the cheese and cream separate. Whisk soup in sauce pan until thoroughly mixed. Once broccoli and cheese are finished cooking, open the plastic package and add broccoli and cheese sauce to soup. Stir thoroughly to combine. Thin with more milk to desired consistency. Serve with bacon bits, fresh ground pepper, salt, and crusty bread. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you would like to make this a little more homemade tasting, prior to making soup, you can sautee about 1 tablespoon minced onion in butter. Then add soup and prepare as usual. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That is it. The easiest broccoli-cheese soup you will ever make! </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-71429640951467792982013-01-17T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-17T06:30:01.185-06:00Tuna Croquettes - Broke Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEYf1aY3WToN4DAV8ZVHVZSHrgLPZpLbN5unWMg8kJC3qJUC5hO14zgdRxWhrTJT-nuhUKI6IizGcoiIbhtjppw4oFWIJcopj09cFEdFT8WSrOYHCRNvtqhrMaCMGU2zBzD40v6WGu1eg/s1600/DSCF0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEYf1aY3WToN4DAV8ZVHVZSHrgLPZpLbN5unWMg8kJC3qJUC5hO14zgdRxWhrTJT-nuhUKI6IizGcoiIbhtjppw4oFWIJcopj09cFEdFT8WSrOYHCRNvtqhrMaCMGU2zBzD40v6WGu1eg/s320/DSCF0002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">While tuna croquettes are listed as today's broke food, they are secretly one of my favorite things to eat. Most people know salmon croquettes, but if you're really trying to save, croquettes made with tuna are just the ticket. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I learned this recipe from my late mother-in-law, Judy, and it's been a favorite of ours ever since. Most people have tuna in their cupboards, and oftentimes if you match coupons with sales, you can get tuna for a great price. It keeps well, and it's versatile. </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">These also make great mock filet-o-fish sandwiches. Save a patty, and the next day heat in the microwave and serve with lettuce and tartar sauce as a sandwich. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The recipe below is for 1-2 people. If you need to feed more people, double or triple the recipe to suit your needs. Now, on with the recipe! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Tuna Croquettes (Makes 2-3)</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">One 2.6 oz. pouch of tuna (or an equivalent size can), drained </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/2 cup crushed saltine crackers or bread crumbs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 egg, beaten </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1-2 tablespoons finely minced onion or 1-2 teaspoons dried minced onion </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Salt and pepper</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Combine all ingredients. Allow to rest for about 10 minutes so the crumbs soften a bit. Form into patties and fry in oil over medium-high heat. Serve with tartar sauce or cocktail sauce (recipes below). This will make 2 large patties, 3 medium patties, or 4 very small patties. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Homemade Tartar Sauce</b>: </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/4 cup mayonnaise </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 tablespoon sweet or dill relish</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Dash onion powder </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Salt and pepper to taste </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Combine all ingredients and serve with fish. My very first job was in a local fish house restaurant, and this was how they made their tartar sauce and their cocktail sauce. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Homemade Cocktail Sauce</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 cup ketchup</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/2 to 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (to taste)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">dash of garlic powder </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">dash of Tabasco hot sauce </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Mix all ingredients and chill before serving. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-30624018514253371122013-01-15T16:10:00.002-06:002013-01-15T16:10:39.035-06:00Asian Chicken Ramen - Creative Cooking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU9bOF-Yz75KVNBUOk4mGhZ7S_FfTD_b2GxSFgqKSNpU_y0FNJqLzctkKUyIwoLXiumzrgQKdTT_LrxlbFa1ZPR6YbnJR2KFZMaF6s3WXWuWcBI7R_A2b49CQpcoDY9N6KH7F2sAyS-UI/s1600/ramen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU9bOF-Yz75KVNBUOk4mGhZ7S_FfTD_b2GxSFgqKSNpU_y0FNJqLzctkKUyIwoLXiumzrgQKdTT_LrxlbFa1ZPR6YbnJR2KFZMaF6s3WXWuWcBI7R_A2b49CQpcoDY9N6KH7F2sAyS-UI/s320/ramen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This is one of
those recipes that is relatively inexpensive and makes a TON of food.
It's great to feed a lot of people, and the ingredients are flexible
enough that you can make more of less of it depending on your
resources. </span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We used to live
in Colorado, and on more than one occasion, we would have a house full
of people. When that happened, I had certain go-to recipes that I knew
would be tasty, filling, make large quantities, and were usually
something that everyone would like. Add a salad and drinks, and this is
enough to feed a crowd. </span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<b> Asian Chicken</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">4 pkgs. Ramen noodles<br />4 C. water<br />¼ C. soy sauce<br />1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (may omit)<br />2 (16 oz.) pkgs. mixed vegetables, preferrably Asian stirfry, but any will do<br />6 cups cooked chicken of your choice (can reduce to as little as 2 cups, if desired; 6 cups is a lot of chicken)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In
very large pot bring 4 cups water to boil. Stir in seasoning packets
from Ramen noodles, soy sauce, and pepper flakes. Add noodles. Cover and
cook for 2 minutes. Do not drain noodles. Add veggies. Cover; cook until noodles and veggies
are tender, 3-4 minutes. Stir in chicken. Makes almost 2 gallons.</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
HINT: To decrease the cost of this dish, you can decrease the chicken and add 2-3 scrambled, chopped up eggs.
</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-70218242992644898212013-01-14T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-14T06:30:01.406-06:00Survival Kit in a Pill Bottle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Survival kits are something we all should have, but it's hard to know not only what to put into one but how to store it. Putting the contents in a pill bottle is an excellent way to make sure you have items on hand, and it's small enough that you can stick it in a purse, jacket pocket, backpack, or toss it in your glove compartment. We like to hike and usually have a couple of these to take with us in case we become injured or get stranded. Also, since it is winter, and a person may get lost or their car stalls and they become stranded, these are nice to have in your car. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfs4Gq0Ii-xaD8mIlg7eBwb7joOZD7ArKqxbCD_Alf4C3Kv5lJhjxXPgGiRouLbnehtnmimeTdciU7smCZQC9kUZmEWkvcil79sOiXkLbM6vDgZklB6-ZTRXjhdEEYQAhM6MfVDN6oyno/s1600/DSCF0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfs4Gq0Ii-xaD8mIlg7eBwb7joOZD7ArKqxbCD_Alf4C3Kv5lJhjxXPgGiRouLbnehtnmimeTdciU7smCZQC9kUZmEWkvcil79sOiXkLbM6vDgZklB6-ZTRXjhdEEYQAhM6MfVDN6oyno/s320/DSCF0009.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">These are not all inclusive, and they can be customized for your specific area, outing, or sport. I tend to pack them for use in a cold climate, as that is when people are most likely to be stranded. I have made one and listed the contents below. The pill bottle is just a tiny one that holds approximately 2 oz. The larger the pill bottle you use, the more you can get into it. The items included are just enough to get you through and fortified until you can be rescued. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Some of the items are not in the photo as I began adding things if I still had room. You may also do the same and add more items if you have a larger pill bottle available. Keep in mind that pill bottles are not usually waterproof, so you may wish to use a ZipLoc bag instead. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">One addition that I would suggest are chlorine water purifying tablets. I do not have these but plan to add them to the bottle in the future, once I can get some. See explanation of uses and photos below. Also a magnesium fire starter is an excellent thing to have on hand; however, most are too big for my pill bottle. Again, I suggest having one of these in your glove compartment, in a back pack, or carry one with you if you are hiking. Finally, a razor blade can be useful, but pack with care. You don't want to slice your finger open trying to get items out of your kit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>My survival kit includes: </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A 2 foot piece of aluminum foil, folded into a tiny rectangle</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A 3 foot piece of duct tape, rolled up</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 sealed alcohol swab in foil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">One birthday candle </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 Benadryl tablets (in plastic wrap)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 Aleve tablets (in aluminum foil)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">4 matches with a strike strip (waterproof are recommended if you can find them)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 wire twist tie</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 safety pin </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 small paper clips</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Dental floss (several feet) wound around cardboard</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 package of Neosporin </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 tiny package of salt </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 needle in a strip of cardboard</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Thread wound around needle </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 beef bouillon cube </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 band-aid </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 small piece of cotton batting </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJy0nHHMpg-4i2Rk_KNeGX1dOcZ3M1LvHkU20cR_saOBB_Dq3-Al4HQehCNy4zhmfBPnjgdJrA25lbaavOpFY_aopTdHK7yok4ORM-KfomJZG2GtXGnVRET-mv3PD0-0kdNhrs2r362E/s1600/DSCF0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJy0nHHMpg-4i2Rk_KNeGX1dOcZ3M1LvHkU20cR_saOBB_Dq3-Al4HQehCNy4zhmfBPnjgdJrA25lbaavOpFY_aopTdHK7yok4ORM-KfomJZG2GtXGnVRET-mv3PD0-0kdNhrs2r362E/s320/DSCF0005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Uses of items: </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Aluminum foil: Can be used as a reflector or mirror for a signal. It can be used to line your clothing to reflect heat back onto your body. It can be formed into a cup or bowl in order to melt ice. It can also be used as a reflector for a fire, flashlight, or candle. Use it over a fire to cook items. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Duct tape: .... enough said. What can't you use duct tape for? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Alcohol Swab: Use for first aid or use to assist with lighting a fire. Save the foil packet for use with cooking or other storage. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Birthday candle: Use as a light or to start a fire. The wax comes in especially handy if wood or other material is wet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Benadryl tablets: Can thwart an allergic reaction from stings, bites, or encounters with plants or other substances that cause an allergic reaction. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Aleve tablets: Aleve is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic that lasts for 12 yours. Ibuprofen, Tylenol, or aspirin may be used but do not provide relief for as long a time as Aleve. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Matches and Strike strip: Use to start a fire for warmth, to melt water, for cooking, or as a signal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Wire Twist tie: Use to secure other times, suspend things, tie items, etc. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Safety Pin: Can be used to repair clothing, secure items together, or can be formed into a makeshift fish hook. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Paper Clips: Ditto safety pin and can be bent and reformed for other uses, such as a fish hook. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Dental Floss: Can be used to stitch items, used as fishing line, and can be braided together to form more of a rope type item. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Neosporin: Use for first aid for cuts and since it is petroleum based can be used as a fire starter, in a pinch. The inside of the package is foil and can also be used as you would aluminum foil. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Salt: Can be used to melt ice, provides sodium content for water retention in the body, and can be used as a preservative for raw meat/food. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Needle and thread: Can be used to repair clothing or stitch items together to provide more protection or warmth. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Beef (chicken, vegetable) Bouillon Cube: Add to 1 cup of water to make broth. Can be sipped alone or used as a base to add herbs, plants, or other game for a meal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Band-Aid: Use to cover a wound. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Small piece of cotton batting: Can be used in bandaging or can be used as fluff to start a fire. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSQ9wz8xSbX_tVfuzhTNIP_5wbefCpF-pS4NEoLQ4a-qEQB7tlvTHtUagigYUs_YM5ylOe9Og6fkjw-PsjL19IVsr3y5SQtaOA3ZswdqjBVklRhKzXdsnYxFYmtIwUflaLu-d23gDrUE/s1600/DSCF0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSQ9wz8xSbX_tVfuzhTNIP_5wbefCpF-pS4NEoLQ4a-qEQB7tlvTHtUagigYUs_YM5ylOe9Og6fkjw-PsjL19IVsr3y5SQtaOA3ZswdqjBVklRhKzXdsnYxFYmtIwUflaLu-d23gDrUE/s320/DSCF0008.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am sure there are other items that can be used, but those are the things that are in my personal pill bottle survival kit. Customize them to your activity. You might want salt pills and sunscreen for a desert trek or mosquito repellent cream if you're headed into the deep woods. Whatever fits in your bottle is wonderful. Hopefully what I have listed above will be a start for designing your own kits for your family. </span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvAS5S6NYcPr2L9b0vrUw5Eek_jz_a9v_W6Wr1z7-EXid_FQIViL0NKIGKnsE4gWQKiEbxY9LFjJY8-45Xh31fN_DqkIkkXymuHrAPFFGypaHWPpOLya4afHGS6LgWCtyrcvfswDG3o8/s1600/DSCF0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvAS5S6NYcPr2L9b0vrUw5Eek_jz_a9v_W6Wr1z7-EXid_FQIViL0NKIGKnsE4gWQKiEbxY9LFjJY8-45Xh31fN_DqkIkkXymuHrAPFFGypaHWPpOLya4afHGS6LgWCtyrcvfswDG3o8/s320/DSCF0011.JPG" width="320" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-13839071604975547522013-01-13T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-13T06:30:00.781-06:00Headache/Migraine Relieving Aromatherapy Lotion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoOKZVEgZVivxXvE4H2uIk1p9HUNd8-LQDBio3xziiiPKTwzjZRBeSLpPfJEu1U2BPQl7XkAIocKa1WuXWBs3krU4rcm110LRqH2zc9GufYjFk5NrAhkfzMBvdtGc3bQkE85e9QjY8wM/s1600/DSCF0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoOKZVEgZVivxXvE4H2uIk1p9HUNd8-LQDBio3xziiiPKTwzjZRBeSLpPfJEu1U2BPQl7XkAIocKa1WuXWBs3krU4rcm110LRqH2zc9GufYjFk5NrAhkfzMBvdtGc3bQkE85e9QjY8wM/s320/DSCF0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Ever have a horrific headache or even a migraine? If you have, you'll never forget it. I suffer from them as do many members of my family. Luckily, I only get a migraine about once a month (more often if I am sleep deprived), but I also get terrible tension headaches. Working at a computer 8+ hours a day, I tend to hold tension in my shoulders and neck. This can result in excruciating tension headaches. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">One way that I have discovered for relieving headaches is through a combination of aromatherapy and acupressure. I'm going to share my solution here. The lotion uses peppermint (menthol) and eucalyptus essential oils. Peppermint used topically and as aromatherapy is known to help relax muscles and increase circulation. This makes it excellent for headaches, particularly tension headaches. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have included the recipe below for making your own headache relieving lotion. This is for use on your hands in combination with acupressure. See instructions, below the recipe, for how to use this lotion in combination with acupressure for headache relief. My hubby loves acupressure so much that if he has a headache, he will wave his hand at me and ask me if I'll rub it to relieve a headache! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Headache Relieving Aromatherapy Lotion</b>: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> 4 oz. (1/2 cup) of lotion of choice or homemade hand lotion (recipe <a href="http://viewatfive-two.blogspot.com/2012/12/homemade-hand-creambody-butter-simple.html" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a> or dollar store vitamin E lotion is also excellent for this) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">15-20 drops peppermint essential oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">10 drops eucalyptus essential oil </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Combine all ingredients, mix well, and store in air-tight container. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>To use</b>: Place a small amount of lotion on both hands and massage all over hands. Concentrate on the part of your hand where your thumb joins to your hand. Put pressure on both sides of this area by placing the thumb on the top part of the area and your fingers underneath (see link below for photo). Use firm pressure and massage in a circular motion. You may even find that, surprisingly, it is sore and that the degree of soreness directly relates to the severity of your headache. Continue to massage this area for 5 minutes. If you are experiencing nausea with your headache, place three fingers together (as if you were going to show someone you're 3 years old), place your fingers on the inside of your wrist, and measure 3 fingerbreadths down from the base of your hand. Begin massaging at that point on the inside of your wrist/forearm. This is an acupressure point to relieve nausea. Alternate these massages, using the lotion liberally. Relax, breathe deeply, and your headache should ease. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For further information on the use of peppermint for headaches, see link <a href="http://www.essentialoilexchange.com/peppermint-oil-for-headaches-and-migraines/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For further information on the use of acupressure to relieve headaches, see link <a href="http://www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/headaches/tools/tools-acupressure.asp" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is for personal use only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or consultation. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-15748403728058426882013-01-12T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-12T17:47:40.435-06:00Homemade Disinfecting Sprays Like Lysol<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyX9vMqP2mZ-VC3sdRosEael8I1aQ5Yl6hCaiCh3CXRFSmUeT6OLfHfuYGyYHel-1myW4EqDIcIEmu0b8R1Xml964GjVI2ivPcTtxcHrDOK3KhU0XU8Yj3RgHUc_7JXvIzx9RgkxcQ4vU/s1600/DSCF0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyX9vMqP2mZ-VC3sdRosEael8I1aQ5Yl6hCaiCh3CXRFSmUeT6OLfHfuYGyYHel-1myW4EqDIcIEmu0b8R1Xml964GjVI2ivPcTtxcHrDOK3KhU0XU8Yj3RgHUc_7JXvIzx9RgkxcQ4vU/s320/DSCF0003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's that time of year again. Time for colds, flu, and just general crud. Everybody is cooped up, and it's easy to spread germs and viruses. All three of us have been sick. I started it, and the hubster and my son now have it. We've tried hard to wash hands, keep everything swabbed with disinfecting wipes and sprays, but somehow we still managed to pick up a bug. </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The most important thing to remember is that good old soap and water do the best job of removing germs. The surfaces are clean, and any remaining germs or viruses can be killed with disinfectants and other sanitizing agents. While I love disinfecting wipes, they can't get everywhere. That's when disinfecting sprays come in handy. They form a fine mist that gets into nooks and crannies and can be sprayed so that there is even coverage.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Most disinfecting sprays do their best job when they are allowed to sit for a few minutes. The optimal time is 5 minutes in order to kill everything. Unfortunately, some of those sprays are not only expensive, they stink! No matter how they are fragranced, it seems they still smell like chemicals. Blech! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You can make your won disinfecting sprays at home and make them suited to your liking. There are two recipes listed below. One is an alcohol-based disinfecting spray. The other is a paracetic acid spray. The alcohol-based one is easier to make, is very effective at killing the flu virus, and is reasonably safe for all surfaces. The paracetic acid mixture is acidic and contains peroxide so is not recommended for use on items that will bleach, such as fabrics. The CDC has deemed alcohol, peroxide, iodine-based products, and detergents as suitable substances for killing the influenza virus (link <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/preventing.htm" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a>). </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Finally, if you can stand the smell, a simple mixture of 1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 quart water or 1/4 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water is an effective germ and virus killer. However, it is not safe for all surfaces, and... it stinks. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here are some alternative recipes for homemade disinfecting spray. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Alcohol-Based Disinfecting Spray</b>:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 spray bottle </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol 70% (the regular stuff you buy in the store)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, rosemary oil, or peppermint oil </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">OR</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 teaspoon Lysol cleaner or other disinfecting liquid cleaner</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In spray bottle put either 15-20 drops of essential oil or 1 teaspoon of disinfecting cleaner. Fill with alcohol and insert sprayer. Shake gently to combine. Spray on surfaces and allow to sit until dry. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Paracetic Acid Based Disinfecting Spray</b>: </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 spray bottle </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/4 cup 5% white vinegar</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/4 cup 3% peroxide </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">5 drops essential oil </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">(Do not use cleaner with this solution.) </span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Mix ingredients and carefully pour into a spray bottle and set sprayer to fine mist. Spritz on hard surfaces that are not easily bleached or prone to damage from liquids. Allow to sit until dry. </span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Note:
This makes a small quantity. If you need larger amounts, adjust
ingredients accordingly by using 1 part vinegar to 1 part peroxide. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For tips on preventing flu see this post from the CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/stopgerms.htm</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-7226321839689667892013-01-10T21:58:00.001-06:002013-01-11T20:36:53.809-06:00Unusual Uses for Common Household Things <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We all have little tips and tricks that we use. I love finding unusual uses for items beyond their normal use. Some of these may be obvious, some may be new, but they are fun and interesting. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What little item do you use that is out of the ordinary? I'd love to know what those are. Here are some of mine: </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Nail
polish remover to take labels off plastic containers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Saturate a paper towel with nail polish
remover.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wrap it around the item that
needs the label or printing removed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Allow to sit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Periodically
redampen the paper towel, then wipe off the label!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May also use furniture-grade acetone, for
this, as well, but be sure to wear gloves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Use
an antiscratch scrubber kitchen sponge (the kind with a loofa on one side and sponge on the other) in the shower to remove calluses from feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it gets icky, either put it on the top
shelf of the dishwasher and run through with a load or put it in a zippered bag
and wash it with a load of towels to get clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Aspirin,
salt, and water paste for canker sore cure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is an old trick that my dentist gave to me long ago to treat canker
sores.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Crush an adult aspirin into a
powder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add an equal amount of
salt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add enough water to make a paste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using a dampened Q-tip, dab a little on the
canker sore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will burn like crazy,
but it “cauterizes” the sore, and it will oftentimes be gone the next day. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(See medical disclaimer below.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Make
a paste of cooking oil and baking soda as a homemade “Goo Gone” to remove
stains and other greasy residue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Use
white vinegar in your dishwasher’s rinse dispenser in stead of expensive commercial
rinse products to stop hard water and soap spots. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>A
crumpled piece of aluminum foil makes an excellent scrubber if no steel wool
pads are available.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>A
muffin tin with each compartment filled halfway makes an excellent extra ice
tray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fill with fruit punch, juice, tea,
or Kool-aid for ice that won’t dilute in your drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Use
Rain-X meant to use for windshields on shower doors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Water spots won’t form, and the shower glass will be easier to clean. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Use
car wax to wax sinks and showers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clean
shower stalls and sinks, then apply a coat of car wax and buff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will leave a shiny surface, and soap
scum won’t stick to it. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Use a
sheet of Contact paper with the backing removed for furniture, clothes and car
seats to make dog hair and lint pickup an extra quick task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">11.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Want extra
long eyelashes?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clean an old mascara
wand, and use it to apply either mineral oil, baby oil, or Vaseline to your
eyelashes each night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will
condition them and help them grow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">12.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Aluminum
foil makes a great connector/contact point<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>if a spring breaks inside a battery compartment of a piece of
electronics or a toy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">13.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Mix coffee
grounds (used or fresh) and olive oil and use for a facial or body scrub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The grounds provide an exfoliating effect,
the caffeine will help tighten skin and improve circulation, and the olive oil
provides moisture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rinse well after use.
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">14.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Spray
Static Guard on your hair brush to relieve static in your hair or use a fabric
softener sheet gently rubbed over your hair to help detangle it. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">15.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Got
stuck-on, burned-on food in a pan or casserole dish?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Place a fabric softener sheet in it, then
fill the pot or dish with hot water, and allow to sit overnight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The gunk will wash off! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">16.<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span>Got an old
T-shirt that is a little on the snug side?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Use it to dry your hair! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pull just the neck over your head, with the shirt going in the wrong direction, then use
the remaining T-shirt to wrap up your hair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This will dry your hair quickly, hold your hair up while you apply
makeup, and is even more gentle than a bath towel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Medical disclaimer:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Material on this Website is provided for informational purposes only. It
is not a substitute for medical care, consultation, or advice. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-35746279047180499682013-01-10T06:30:00.000-06:002013-01-10T06:30:02.190-06:00Easy Kitchen Cleanup while Cooking <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN51cjSJmgvGinv0nLcjShddIBcCHB7UgKXTkWgMD2XPR3QbzL1l6lzQn7k3bYhPeumb8oaewaz4yEOs1t57948sQwgCvV1SQLegu-Tg28P0lz_0JUdqeEPSjjDNo4smYsps7MHnaJjuY/s1600/2012_1011Sales0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN51cjSJmgvGinv0nLcjShddIBcCHB7UgKXTkWgMD2XPR3QbzL1l6lzQn7k3bYhPeumb8oaewaz4yEOs1t57948sQwgCvV1SQLegu-Tg28P0lz_0JUdqeEPSjjDNo4smYsps7MHnaJjuY/s320/2012_1011Sales0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Some friends and I were having a discussion recently about whether or not we like to cook. A couple said they wouldn't mind cooking if it didn't make such a mess. I piped up because one thing that I learned, when I was learning to cook, was how to clean as you go. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Now, let's get one thing straight. I... AM... A.. SLOB. No ifs, ands, or buts. I would rather do anything that clean, my house is a disaster, and a scatter bomb going off would be an improvement. As someone once said, "A lazy person will find the fastest way to do something." That would be me. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">However, one thing I'm weird about is my kitchen. While there might be clutter around, the kitchen itself will be clean. I cannot start cooking unless the kitchen is clean first. Weird, huh? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I told them my tips for cleaning as I go while I cook, and a friend suggested a blog post. So here we go! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Steps to Cleaning while Cooking: </b> </span></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Put away any clean dishes in the dishwasher.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Empty the sink and counter spaces and put all dirty dishes in the dishwasher.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Plug the sink and squirt in a little dish soap. Run the sink about half full of soapy water. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As you cook and use bowls, utensils, etc., put them in either the sink or the dishwasher.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hang a Walmart sack or trash sack over either a cabinet drawer or cabinet door to secure it. Hang it near where you are cooking. Dump empty cans, packaging, or scraps in as you cook so that you are not moving back and forth between the trash can. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Open any cans needed for a recipe. Drain, if needed.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Save an empty
can into which you can pour drippings from cooked meat, such as
hamburger meat. Toss the can when contents are cool. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Chop any veggies that need to be chopped. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cut up and/or rinse any meat needed in the recipes. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Use a spoon rest or folded up dampened paper towel on which to lay any utensils while you cook to prevent drips and spots. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As you use something, put it either in the soapy water in the sink, or put larger items in the dishwasher.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When finished cooking and serving your meal, you can empty the sink and either place soaked items in the dishwasher or give them a quick scrub, rinse, and dry to put them away. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Collect trash sack full of items and discard. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Wipe down stove/oven, counters, let water out of sink and scour. </span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You're done! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-73630671188071875982013-01-09T15:00:00.000-06:002013-01-09T15:00:17.595-06:00Huge List of Printable Coupons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbBY92cDbiDaStU6ut9TSskan8tQsFMrWNjH7_cvhq2wo27BqxWegMl3pWXLy3mC8umGf8M-stokSyLhXslkQS-14OFrqev_hLNOccn1Rs56UfNELXBvNU905E8VMIuXfUE-vL3pRvpA/s1600/2012_1025coupons0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbBY92cDbiDaStU6ut9TSskan8tQsFMrWNjH7_cvhq2wo27BqxWegMl3pWXLy3mC8umGf8M-stokSyLhXslkQS-14OFrqev_hLNOccn1Rs56UfNELXBvNU905E8VMIuXfUE-vL3pRvpA/s320/2012_1025coupons0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Why is this reposting? Because I went to edit it and deleted the stupid thing. Arrghhh!!! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><u><b></b></u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have added links for Campbell's Soups and Better Oats instant oatmeal to the bottom of the list. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So sorry for the duplicate post! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Loadable Coupons: </u></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Savingstar.com</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This is for people who have savings cards issued from
stores.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check to see if your store’s
savings card is listed, sign up, and then shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When the purchase is confirmed by Savingstar, your account will be
credited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once you receive $5.00 in
credits, you can request that money be issued to you in the form of a direct
bank deposit, Paypal deposit, or gift card from a retailer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://savingstar.com/">https://savingstar.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cellfire </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">These are coupons that are loadable to your cell phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check to see if there are participating
retailers in your area, then just bring up the coupon and have the cashier scan
it at the register.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.cellfire.com/">http://www.cellfire.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Printable coupons </u></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Coupons.com<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This is a great site for printable coupons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can check to see what’s available under
not only your own zip code but under other zip codes throughout the country, as
well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To change zip cods, click on the
link titled “Local Coupons.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enter a zip
code in a spot on the left-hand side, and press enter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then click the “coupons” tab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can then sort by Food, Beverages,
Household goods, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Coupons.com also
has a savings club that offers exclusive printable coupons to members that are
not available elsehwere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you watch
for promotions, oftentimes there are offers to get a year for free. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As a note, coupons.com requires that a small printer
driver/applet be installed on your computer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is safe and is necessary in order to be able to print coupons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.coupons.com/">http://www.coupons.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Red Plum</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Again, may require you to install a small printer applet
that is considered safe for use. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.redplum.com/">http://www.redplum.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Coupon Network</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Also a source to find out what Your
Bucks/Catalina offers are available or coming soon.*)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Again, may require a printer applet in order to print;
considered safe for download. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.couponnetwork.com/printable-coupons">http://www.couponnetwork.com/printable-coupons</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Smart Source </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">**This is the website where it is most important that you
not only have Java installed, but make sure you accept their printer applet and
turn your popup blocker off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the
trickiest one about not printing or giving some obscure error such as telling
you that you’ve violated some rule. **</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.smartsource.com/">www.smartsource.com</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Common
Kindness.org<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">These are coupons that serve as both discounts and fundraisers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sign up and choose a local organization to
help, and then you can print coupons. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">**I strongly advise printing these coupons one at a time, as
sometimes the coupon sheets across the next pages if there is more than one
coupon and then will not print again.**</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.commonkindness.com/">http://www.commonkindness.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hormel </b>(Hormel
lunch meat, Cure81 hams, Hormel Always tender meats, Hormel entrees, Lloyd’s
Woodfire heat and eat products, Hormel Chili, and numerous others.)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up and sign in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They will also e-mail specials and newsletters. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.hormel.com/updates/coupons/">http://www.hormel.com/updates/coupons/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Ready Seat Eat</b> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>from Conagra Foods (Hunt’s, Pam, Healthy
Choice, Pam, Chef Boyardee, Marie Callendar’s, Orville Reddenbacher, Reddi
Whip, Wesson, Fleischmann’s, and another long list of items.)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.readyseteat.com/profile/newsletter-opt.do?newsletterOpt-50984=Y">http://www.readyseteat.com/profile/newsletter-opt.do?newsletterOpt-50984=Y</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Making Life Better</b>
by Unilever Products (Knorr products, Ben & Jerry’s, Breyers, Country
Crock, Jif, Lipton teas and rice/pasta products, Ragu, Skippy, and many bath
and laundry products.) </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.makinglifebetter.com/offers/Coupons/">http://www.makinglifebetter.com/offers/Coupons/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">SnackPicks.com</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Keebler crackers and some Kellogg’s brands) </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up, then click on the coupons and savings link.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make sure you approve for them to send you
newsletters and updates, as they will send either high-value coupons to your
e-mail inbox or provide links to print coupons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.snackpicks.com/en_US/home.html">http://www.snackpicks.com/en_US/home.html</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kellogg’s.com</b> (Kellogg’s products, mostly
cereal,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pop-Tarts but other products,
too.)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This site is a shared site with Snackpicks.com but often has
different coupons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There may also be
other printable coupons under the Offers & Promotions tabs and “Other
Coupons” section.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.kelloggs.com/en_US/home.html">http://www.kelloggs.com/en_US/home.html</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Betty Crocker.com<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Betty Crocker, Bisquick, Cascadian Farms,
Muir Glen tomatoes, Yoplait Yogurt, Pillsbury products, General Mills cereals,
and more!)</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up and sign in, and you will be sent special offers via
e-mail and newsletter.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/coupons-promotions/coupons/default">http://www.bettycrocker.com/coupons-promotions/coupons/default</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Nestle Very Best
Baking</b> (chocolate chips, baking products, etc.)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.verybestbaking.com/Coupons-Promotions/Coupons-List.aspx">http://www.verybestbaking.com/Coupons-Promotions/Coupons-List.aspx</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pillsbury</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign in and print coupons and get the newsletter for extra
printable coupons</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.pillsbury.com/coupons-promotions">http://www.pillsbury.com/coupons-promotions</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Land O’ Moms (Land O’
Frost deli meats and kits</b>)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">They’ll want you to give your name and e-mail address.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sign up for the Newsletter to receive news
and special offers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The latest coupon is
usually on the right-hand side of the home page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.landomoms.com/">http://www.landomoms.com/</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pompeian Products</b>
(Olive oil, vinegar, and grapeseed oil)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://coupons2.smartsource.com/smartsource/operations/offers/Pompeian/PompeianCoupons.html">http://coupons2.smartsource.com/smartsource/operations/offers/Pompeian/PompeianCoupons.html</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">On the Border
Products</b> such as chips, salsa, and sauces from Truco Enterprises</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.trucoenterprises.com/files/coupon.pdf">http://www.trucoenterprises.com/files/coupon.pdf</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">International Delight</b>
Creamers and other products</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.internationaldelight.com/special-offers">http://www.internationaldelight.com/special-offers</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Coffee-Mate creamers</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.coffee-mate.com/Offers/Default.aspx">http://www.coffee-mate.com/Offers/Default.aspx</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">King’s Hawaiian Bread
and Rolls</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.kingshawaiian.com/club/"><span style="font-weight: normal;">http://www.kingshawaiian.com/club/</span></a></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hiland Dairy Products
</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Dips, sour cream, cottage cheese,
orange juice, etc.)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Must sign up to be able to print. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://hilanddairy.com/coupons/coupon-list">http://hilanddairy.com/coupons/coupon-list</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Wholly Guacamole and
Salsa</b> (Facebook page; they almost always have a coupon there!) </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WhollyGuacamole/app_399260323430416">https://www.facebook.com/WhollyGuacamole/app_399260323430416</a>?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Michelina’s Frozen
Entrees and Dinners<br />
</b><a href="http://www.michelinas.com/savemoney.aspx">http://www.michelinas.com/savemoney.aspx</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Chinet Paper Plates,
Cups, and Napkins</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up for their Newsletter, and they will send you a link
every month to an awesome coupon that is usually $1.00 off one of their
items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a great way to stock up
on paper goods, especially with the holidays coming up!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Link to join here: </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.mychinet.com/club/join/referrer:|promotions">http://www.mychinet.com/club/join/referrer:|promotions</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Blue Bell Ice Cream </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up, then sign in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The link for coupons is in tiny print at the menu on the bottom of the
page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bluebell.com/">http://www.bluebell.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Blue Bunny Ice Cream
Coupon</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Again, sign up/sign in, and then you can print.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s usually for $1.00 off. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.bluebunny.com/iScreamTeam/SignIn.aspx?required=1">https://www.bluebunny.com/iScreamTeam/SignIn.aspx?required=1</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Tabasco</b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Sauces</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.tabasco.com/site-tools/grocery-coupon/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">http://www.tabasco.com/site-tools/grocery-coupon/</span></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Underwood Deviled Ham</b>
(lower left corner of page)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.underwoodspreads.com/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">http://www.underwoodspreads.com/</span></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Marie Callender</b>
(If available, they'll be here)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.mariecallendersmeals.com/promotions.jsp">http://www.mariecallendersmeals.com/promotions.jsp</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">* More printable coupon Links</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pilgrim’s Chicken</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">$1/1 frozen OR fresh (top right of page, in the blue strip)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.pilgrims.com/">http://www.pilgrims.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Reser’s Fine Foods </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">(Deli salads, potato salad, etc.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up for the Newsletter at the top right side of the
page, and coupon links will be e-mailed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some may be present on their special offers page. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.resers.com/special-offers/coupons">http://www.resers.com/special-offers/coupons</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Nature’s Own Bread </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up/sign in, and accept the newsletter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>E-mails will be sent periodically with links
to coupons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://naturesownbread.com/">http://naturesownbread.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Roman Meal Bread</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Coupon link is bottom right of page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They usually always have a coupon link
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also sign up for e-mail
newsletter to receive special offers. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.romanmeal.com/">http://www.romanmeal.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Litehouse Foods </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">(Dips, dressings, and glazes)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up to receive $0.55 off any Litehouse product. You will
also receive periodic e-mails with links for coupons. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.litehousefoods.com/offers-page">http://www.litehousefoods.com/offers-page</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Red Gold Tomatoes
(Tomato Country website)</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up, and you can print a $0.50 off coupon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once you are registered, enter your e-mail
address, and a link will be sent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up for the newsletter, and a link will be e-mailed to
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have a store that doubles
coupons, these tomato products will oftentimes be free or nearly free. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.redgold.com/welrg12502">http://www.redgold.com/welrg12502</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Old Orchard Juice</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Printable coupons on their website.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Must sign up to print.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sign up for newsletter, and additional
savings will be e-mailed to you. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://oldorchard.com/promotions/">http://oldorchard.com/promotions/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Welch’s Juice </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">May or may not be coupons on this page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check periodically.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, sign up for newsletter, and coupons
will be e-mailed to you. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.welchs.com/promotions">http://www.welchs.com/promotions</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bar-S Meat Products</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">No current promotions, but check back for coupons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sign up for e-mailed newsletter and coupon
links. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bar-s.com/promotions/promotions.php">http://www.bar-s.com/promotions/promotions.php</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">French’s </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Mustard, Worcestershire sauce, fried onions, Dijon mustard, etc. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.frenchs.com/my-frenchs/create-an-account?redirect=/promotions/coupon">http://www.frenchs.com/my-frenchs/create-an-account?redirect=/promotions/coupon</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sparkle Paper Towels </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Coupon right on home page for $1/1 6-pack regular rolls or
larger (may change to napkins, depending on time of year). </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.sparkletowels.com/">http://www.sparkletowels.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mt.</b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Olive</b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Pickles </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><u>Warning!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Turn your
volume down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is music that plays
on this site! </u></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Have freebie giveaways and newsletter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of their coupons are in the form of
hangtags, but will occasionally e-mail coupons. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.mtolivepickles.com/">http://www.mtolivepickles.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Kashi Products </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">(Cereals, granola bars, etc.) </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Check page periodically for coupons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sign up for e-mail newsletter to receive
e-mailed offers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.kashi.com/events/coupons">http://www.kashi.com/events/coupons</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Emeril’s Food
Products </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Coupon for $1/2 any Emeril food products.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Includes sauces, seasonings, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other coupons periodically.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.emerilscooking.com/promotions.asp">http://www.emerilscooking.com/promotions.asp</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">New
World</b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Pasta </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">(American Beauty, No Yolks noodles, Wacky Mac, Ronzoni, and
Creamette brands)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up for newsletter, and links to coupons will be
mailed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Also check their Facebook page, as they periodically offer
coupons there, as well. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.itpaystoeatpasta.com/sweeps_general/form.cfm">https://www.itpaystoeatpasta.com/sweeps_general/form.cfm</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Garnier Hair Products</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up, and they will often e-mail you exclusive coupons,
especially for new products.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.garnierusa.com/_en/_us/home.aspx">http://www.garnierusa.com/_en/_us/home.aspx</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Maybelline </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up for their newsletter (bottom right of page), and
they will often mail exclusive coupons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.maybelline.com/">http://www.maybelline.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Incredible Edible Egg
Facebook Page</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There is often a $0.55/2 coupon promotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a coupon off ANY BRAND OF EGGS!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a promotion by the association of egg
producers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Like their page, then print.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This makes for extremely cheap eggs when there is a sale! </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/IncredibleEdibleEgg/app_433292576729358">https://www.facebook.com/IncredibleEdibleEgg/app_433292576729358</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Yankee Candle Company
</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">They will e-mail coupons and notices for special exclusive
sales.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shipping is a flate rate of $5.00
for orders under $100, so this is a great way to stock up for gifts, especially
with Christmas coming up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They recently
had wax tarts on sale for $1.00, used in wax warmers. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.yankeecandle.com/home2">http://www.yankeecandle.com/home2</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Earthbound Farms
Organic Vegetables </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up for newsletter, and they will e-mail links to
coupons. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.ebfarm.com/">http://www.ebfarm.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Organic Girl Greens</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up for e-mail, and coupons will be e-mailed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also like their Facebook page, as it often
has printable coupons. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://iloveorganicgirl.com/">http://iloveorganicgirl.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Vidalia Onions </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Facebook page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
will have seasonal coupons, so keep an eye on their fan page. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/VidaliaOnions?ref=ts&fref=ts">https://www.facebook.com/VidaliaOnions?ref=ts&fref=ts</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">California</b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Cuties</b> (Clementine type oranges)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sign up for newsletter, and e-mail coupons will be sent
seasonally. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://cutieskids.com/">http://cutieskids.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Arm and Hammer
(Baking Soda, Toothpaste, Laundry Detergent, Cat Litter)</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Create account and print coupons from coupon page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sign up for e-mail newsletter, and links to
coupons will also be e-mailed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.armandhammer.com/Resources/SavingsCenter.aspx?CampaignId=Toothpaste">http://www.armandhammer.com/Resources/SavingsCenter.aspx?CampaignId=Toothpaste</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Silk Soy Milk </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Coupon on lower right-hand corner of home page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sign up for newsletter, and coupons will also
be e-mailed to you. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://silksoymilk.com/">http://silksoymilk.com/</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Freschetta Pizza </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Link to coupon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enter
e-mail to print.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sign up for newsletter
to receive coupons in e-mails. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.freschetta.com/coupons.htm">http://www.freschetta.com/coupons.htm</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">*Updated from 11/15/2012 onward (post published 11/17/2012)</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001173807209702858.post-91075803719952748552013-01-08T06:30:00.001-06:002013-01-08T06:30:01.410-06:00Salsa Chicken - Freezer to Crock Pot (Repost)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrnreCG84LjPSosZPJHORWCDkzQBmgb-8lB1Fbkmu75HPxttKv-SoYQdQ5HQY_ESwvosTG3o5ejNF3HLdxEVvGXB8psnFrq1TMpdJnq7vzaPj89B4guf4tzejxqka3IJcEHi6WICLK028/s1600/2012_10171treecrock0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrnreCG84LjPSosZPJHORWCDkzQBmgb-8lB1Fbkmu75HPxttKv-SoYQdQ5HQY_ESwvosTG3o5ejNF3HLdxEVvGXB8psnFrq1TMpdJnq7vzaPj89B4guf4tzejxqka3IJcEHi6WICLK028/s320/2012_10171treecrock0007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This is a repost of the most popular recipe from this blog, so far. Please forgive the reposting, as I am still sick, not feeling well, and my blog posts are lagging. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This is another
easy and yummy freezer to crock pot meal. Salsa Chicken can be made
many different ways by substituting or adjusting the ingredients. Once
finished, it has a taste that resembles chicken chili and is a great
meal for cold, blustery nights. </span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This recipe makes one 5 quart crock pot full. Here's the recipe:</span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Salsa Chicken</b></span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3, 4, or 5 boneless skinless chicken breasts (however many work for your family)</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 15 oz. can of black beans, drained</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 15 oz can of kidney beans, drained</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 15 oz can of corn, drained </span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 can Ro-Tel tomatoes or any brand tomatoes with green chiles</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 small jar of salsa of your choice (around 15 oz.; size varies by brand)</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 packet taco seasoning </span></div>
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</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When ready to serve add: Cheese, tortillas, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream. </span></div>
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</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
Place ingredients
in a 1 gallon zippered bag and freeze. When ready to cook, place
frozen chunk in crock and cook on low for 8 hours or high 6 hours.
Serve in bowls with cheese and tortilla chips, or scoop into tortillas
and add cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
(Note: The photo above is midway through the cooking process. It thickens up as it cooks further.) </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08870515255288123843noreply@blogger.com3