tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14662873643968176792024-03-13T02:58:05.825-04:00Cheap and WiseBig ideas for small budgetsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger93125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-25008159505341124272013-07-29T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-29T09:03:30.541-04:00Meal Stretcher Monday: Shredded CheeseWe use shredded cheese pretty often - mozzarella in <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/07/cater-your-own-party.html" target="_blank">baked ziti</a>, on <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/05/pizza-friday.html" target="_blank">pizza</a>, cheddar on <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/06/meal-stretcher-monday-chili.html" target="_blank">chili</a> or in burritos, etc.<br />
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I have noticed that there appears to be a shredding fee. Look:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRsvtC58hsSHyWVqiP-B9IHyEWkJWw_yqhnKIzCNapknLqUbXeuJhG1XtrywtjDKIIogI97sxzLEvuDzEJq3DyHo2CuTN8g8lAtdE_0zeHYUVzJpa_VNWSEO1WQkVr7o1tvvHtOHzmxo/s1600/IMG_2071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRsvtC58hsSHyWVqiP-B9IHyEWkJWw_yqhnKIzCNapknLqUbXeuJhG1XtrywtjDKIIogI97sxzLEvuDzEJq3DyHo2CuTN8g8lAtdE_0zeHYUVzJpa_VNWSEO1WQkVr7o1tvvHtOHzmxo/s320/IMG_2071.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Shredded: 8 ounces for $2.28.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaW01HvgzA4PHf9KZhMtE2hxTGw8HsyeTAF6JJsNMPVOZrub1EfxWKwviuIKShSBZ3E1lQG7Z50EWF89OamvyuRGIy93yGHXqWxAiP7R7H_7vVden2MYquGduwbbF7-uKOxiVUIHGfGJg/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaW01HvgzA4PHf9KZhMtE2hxTGw8HsyeTAF6JJsNMPVOZrub1EfxWKwviuIKShSBZ3E1lQG7Z50EWF89OamvyuRGIy93yGHXqWxAiP7R7H_7vVden2MYquGduwbbF7-uKOxiVUIHGfGJg/s320/IMG_2070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Un-shredded: 32 ounces for $7.98.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
So, if I buy the block and shred it, it's like getting 4 of those 8-ounce bags for $1.99 each. <br />
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But, isn't shredding cheese by hand a pain the @$$? Why yes. Yes it is.<br />
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Or it would be...if I hadn't <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2013/05/time-saves-money-stalking-purchase.html" target="_blank">STALKED THAT FOOD PROCESSOR!</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSHZuju1SUUm88vNJ2MOhKM5ott8CwZwSB3rMpGT5il-z4gEcuxyp8-lyW6gWuJOEyxicBPF4Vxk03QCytG23cDyAsyyfU6eazQ7aZDoV2Vu1n05KQ0FZ_ByOJVJvwY0WuFWO5C06DrS4/s1600/IMG_2236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSHZuju1SUUm88vNJ2MOhKM5ott8CwZwSB3rMpGT5il-z4gEcuxyp8-lyW6gWuJOEyxicBPF4Vxk03QCytG23cDyAsyyfU6eazQ7aZDoV2Vu1n05KQ0FZ_ByOJVJvwY0WuFWO5C06DrS4/s320/IMG_2236.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Wheeeeeeeeeee!</i></div>
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Awwww yeeeeaaaaah. Two minutes worth of processing, and I now have a big fat bag of shredded cheese in my freezer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1PvNa7cyRLZsLPMURT2MSvQoiyIU8Ho-pA1erLWkJo5IHJcNQueWfp-2SO4_U612yzCl1VsGZNX_upcFWi0Qjq1OjzEX6TAHxa9HySob3mUj4PpZ-jcEWP3MgZSLHqs6aOaHvdx6k4Q/s1600/IMG_2237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1PvNa7cyRLZsLPMURT2MSvQoiyIU8Ho-pA1erLWkJo5IHJcNQueWfp-2SO4_U612yzCl1VsGZNX_upcFWi0Qjq1OjzEX6TAHxa9HySob3mUj4PpZ-jcEWP3MgZSLHqs6aOaHvdx6k4Q/s320/IMG_2237.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Cheap trick: put a tablespoon of flour into the bag and give it a good shake. It will keep the cheese from sticking together!</i><br />
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Happy eating.<br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: verdana; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://beingfrugalbychoice.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/eg9rq.gif" /></a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-77792005943022300972013-07-26T15:51:00.000-04:002013-07-30T16:10:53.403-04:00Clearance Time!I love the change of seasons! Is it because of the new and exciting parade of nature's beauty outside my window? Heck no! Nature's cool and all, but I'm in this for the SALES.<br />
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Clothing stores are cleaning out their lighter gear in preparation for fall and winter styles that they can promote with ridiculous back-to-school sales. (FYI Stores - Screaming "SCHOOL IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!" in July makes me want to punch you. I'm a teacher. Don't rush my summer. EVER.)<br />
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Wandering with Preschooler of Doom into an Old Navy today scored me some nice stuff for work!<br />
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Behold:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgskJXi0tHkAebczznIBly1yM-tYyhKSi2ifWM722nVy4A9Gaz9qxDvmMa73c8hyKr2UFNPYtG7n2XGWQNIzVVeOxFfyFn1OkFB2PMgyEU_QZnGSRzUvzx4vAJpRRxhznnbRn-q1OuOf4/s1600/IMG_2234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgskJXi0tHkAebczznIBly1yM-tYyhKSi2ifWM722nVy4A9Gaz9qxDvmMa73c8hyKr2UFNPYtG7n2XGWQNIzVVeOxFfyFn1OkFB2PMgyEU_QZnGSRzUvzx4vAJpRRxhznnbRn-q1OuOf4/s320/IMG_2234.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>Yeah, I like pink. Don't judge.</i></div>
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What you see here are three light sweaters, two pairs of slacks, one pair of earrings, and some pretty, girly bobby pins. Total: $42.39 (pre-tax).<br />
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Here's the breakdown:<br />
Black sweater: $2.97 (down from $29.95)<br />
Pink sweater: $2.97 (down from $24.95)<br />
Brown sweater: $2.97 (down from $24.95)<br />
Black slacks: $12.25 (down from $24.50)<br />
Beige slacks: $16.25 (down from $32.50)<br />
Earrings: $2.99 (down from $6.95)<br />
Bobby pins: $1.99 (down form $6.95)<br />
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Did you catch all that? I got $150.76 worth of stuff for $42.39.<br />
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That means I saved $108.37. Cool, no?<br />
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<i>Do you have a clearance rack victories? Share them in the comments!</i><br />
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<div align="center"><a href="http://www.elizabethandco.blogspot.com/" title="Elizabeth and Co." target="_blank"><img src="http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k616/meb263/150whitebutton.jpg" alt="Elizabeth and Co." style="border:none;" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-89004584607135933242013-07-20T08:35:00.000-04:002013-07-20T08:35:39.517-04:00Museum Memberships: Worth Every Penny<div>
In May, my Mom and Step-Dad (Grandma and Grandpa Z) came visiting us for the weekend. My Mom is a "let's go out and DO something" type, so I found a list of several things going on in the area. The one we chose was a visit to <a href="http://misci.org/" target="_blank">miSci - The Museum of Innovation and Science</a>, which is about two miles from here. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTInRAq340EzJrIYhf51B-1INZLyfD82SkVDgYhORwA9xmebykyXGlGvOmwXp_JGwZ3f4KjHenqsJLJk7cwNAZBnjHGzxwJ3cEovB24_AbN_kg0ip79cSBhOwwji58yt-Zc8cSYGFv8JI/s1600/IMG_1931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTInRAq340EzJrIYhf51B-1INZLyfD82SkVDgYhORwA9xmebykyXGlGvOmwXp_JGwZ3f4KjHenqsJLJk7cwNAZBnjHGzxwJ3cEovB24_AbN_kg0ip79cSBhOwwji58yt-Zc8cSYGFv8JI/s320/IMG_1931.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>My littlest exploring a powerful magnet...</i></div>
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<i>...while standing on my lap. He's small.</i></div>
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The boys loved it! Which is good, because my Mom bought us a family membership while I wasn't looking. (She's good like that.)<br />
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The membership gives free admission for my husband, both boys, and me. All year. It payed for itself in less than two months.<br />
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<b>Membership (1 year): $80</b><br />
<b>Usual entry fee (1 day for all 4 of us): $32 </b> ($9.50 per adult; $6.50 per child)<br />
<b>Amount we would have had to pay so far WITHOUT membership: Around $140.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-IpErhE1qIioCMNVhZOD1so4PGLxbU43_6d6uDAkmxIfBQ2DhiChvE082fQbeKLZuy6eadlX7aNyFGGlZDHug56G4RA7NCr7kMkaZ-D2pL4BeIBofsWWVheusEz4wCGBY1xiwSoqHRjM/s1600/IMG_1924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-IpErhE1qIioCMNVhZOD1so4PGLxbU43_6d6uDAkmxIfBQ2DhiChvE082fQbeKLZuy6eadlX7aNyFGGlZDHug56G4RA7NCr7kMkaZ-D2pL4BeIBofsWWVheusEz4wCGBY1xiwSoqHRjM/s320/IMG_1924.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>This magnet is officially the most fascinating thing in the WORLD.</i></div>
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It's interactive, interesting, and educational. The kids love it, and we go about every other week. Now, every time we go there (it's especially wonderful when it's too hot or rainy outside for comfort) I feel like I'm pocketing 32 bucks. Much better than walking around the mall, or sitting in the living room watching Wonder Pets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXoEPTeUbfKt4KHSNfnjm9ERVvwuUXLe30jLia__DxRXSaGXYJ5Oq6tjVPATlvBQ7f9rXhZEY_rcEC_grk3Or8SgEuLD0uwbU40vc8JnfVfzIeQ62O4A7a7jJQ9rUWTh5ECfYHYcljcpw/s1600/466673_4737446922608_2047433573_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXoEPTeUbfKt4KHSNfnjm9ERVvwuUXLe30jLia__DxRXSaGXYJ5Oq6tjVPATlvBQ7f9rXhZEY_rcEC_grk3Or8SgEuLD0uwbU40vc8JnfVfzIeQ62O4A7a7jJQ9rUWTh5ECfYHYcljcpw/s320/466673_4737446922608_2047433573_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>My eldest posing with the electric car.</i></div>
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But wait! There's more! This museum does events for the kids! For example, we have TWICE gone to a program for 3-5 year olds where our boys get treated to reading a science themed book, singing, playing a game, making a craft, and GET A FREE BOOK! You can't beat that! And it's free with the cost of admission which, thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Z, is free to us for this whooooole year!<br />
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Oh, and did I mention that there are big, robotic dinosaurs there now? They're very impressive. And they move. And growl. (My littlest didn't like that last part). <a href="http://albanycvb.blogspot.com/2013/06/dinosaurs-roaming-around-schenectady.html" target="_blank">You can see awesome pictures of them here.</a><br />
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Oh, and did I mention that they have a huge Van de Graff generator?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCUWmWKcK2eNHoPtDOwL0j_42s78JObgMDCp1GALUBUrhdKraz6fDQe7oD3x7bjcXMlSvwTx1wrG5gLanEUBMTgR2sO_zR3vLV5cgBJtHdqZl-YsPVumEacPW-b6lzhPdAzSrUzMxX3q8/s1600/IMG_2052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCUWmWKcK2eNHoPtDOwL0j_42s78JObgMDCp1GALUBUrhdKraz6fDQe7oD3x7bjcXMlSvwTx1wrG5gLanEUBMTgR2sO_zR3vLV5cgBJtHdqZl-YsPVumEacPW-b6lzhPdAzSrUzMxX3q8/s320/IMG_2052.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>Static. It's fun.</i></div>
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So, take the plunge. Support your local museums and science centers. Buy a membership. Use the membership. You will get a lot of great days of family fun thrown in free of charge.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyq1Y93OWH-7tEJ3_zuu71tH-iljdaag90TKWMuFy3yzIsZk6ygsSmFD4R9-wUWwUJ_ecwSBj8HpQfPjXYrX4gf1_7FdKU22t86OzzQUkMUehPSvaNCalwBRlxWKPTFGlbSn977IjL_MA/s1600/IMG_1935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyq1Y93OWH-7tEJ3_zuu71tH-iljdaag90TKWMuFy3yzIsZk6ygsSmFD4R9-wUWwUJ_ecwSBj8HpQfPjXYrX4gf1_7FdKU22t86OzzQUkMUehPSvaNCalwBRlxWKPTFGlbSn977IjL_MA/s320/IMG_1935.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-87287521269664706472013-07-15T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-15T06:00:12.975-04:00Meal Stretcher Monday: Home Made Ranch!<br />
I have made no secret of my love for vegetables. Now that the weather has warmed up, and I have discovered the tragic loss of my waistline from a winter of "comfort" foods, I'm spending even more time with my veggies. <br />
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The other day I bought carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, and cauliflower from my grocery's produce aisle. I was going to pick up a container of ranch dip, but they were out. Rather than schlep across town to plunk down four bucks, I decided to see if I could make my own.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IduDWIEwwCURulgYX5fsTKEZu84ac9QS7vWGuOdOPv4RVbl4BhDqDZWkhcxrd5BFeoY7FqPYAz3EFE3oMWTMHf0qSodOl_CtFQm6-FdCxncgSqNNBW8GKV8ovo3P5zPmB4M-Ln31Ug0/s1600/IMG_2030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IduDWIEwwCURulgYX5fsTKEZu84ac9QS7vWGuOdOPv4RVbl4BhDqDZWkhcxrd5BFeoY7FqPYAz3EFE3oMWTMHf0qSodOl_CtFQm6-FdCxncgSqNNBW8GKV8ovo3P5zPmB4M-Ln31Ug0/s320/IMG_2030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Mmm. Dippy.</i></div>
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To the internet!<br />
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There are quite a few sites offering recipes, but they all seem to be the same:<br />
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2 Tbsp dried parsley<br />
1 tsp dried dill<br />
1 tsp garlic powder<br />
1 tsp onion powder<br />
1/2 tsp dried basil<br />
1/2 tsp pepper<br />
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(The only variations I found either involved adding powdered buttermilk, or a half tsp of salt, or both)<br />
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Add your ingredients to a jar, put the lid on, and shake it like it owes you money.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcv2bMPxGFHU811ChFvGbtL30KQ4GuU6matIVyKDwRRRbMysN3k4Bv06emzbAoVRFfY4eJ3t1Eks8AGAuH7rgkw1pW_vMo5qFnpBTWpYNAt98ymmU6bxlJEIRln1aOUqtbzoPGhNMT5Fc/s1600/IMG_2018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcv2bMPxGFHU811ChFvGbtL30KQ4GuU6matIVyKDwRRRbMysN3k4Bv06emzbAoVRFfY4eJ3t1Eks8AGAuH7rgkw1pW_vMo5qFnpBTWpYNAt98ymmU6bxlJEIRln1aOUqtbzoPGhNMT5Fc/s320/IMG_2018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>I can't wait to see how many things I can add this to.</i></div>
Done!<br />
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Now - how to use it...<br />
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If you want to make ranch dressing, most sites advocate a mix of 1 Tbsp ranch seasoning to...<br />
1) 1 cup mayonnaise and 1/2 cup sour cream<br />
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<br />
Or:<br />
1 cup mayonnaise<br />
1/2 cup sour cream<br />
1/2 cup butter milk<br />
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Or:<br />
1 cup mayonnaise<br />
1.2 cup sour cream<br />
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I have a confession to make. I'm deeply suspicious of mayonnaise. Deeply. <br />
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Instead, I mixed this with some plain yogurt. It's tart and tangy, and I loved it! (The kids...not so much).<br />
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Get creative! It's your recipe now, so run with it. <br />
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Oh, and tell me how it goes. I love comments!<br />
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P.S. If you want this ground up (so that you can sprinkle it on french fries or whatever) just run it through the coffee grinder! ...Clean out the coffee first.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-29915025452613282302013-07-08T21:37:00.000-04:002013-07-08T21:37:00.166-04:00Meal Stretcher Monday: Stir Fry Sauce!Necessity is the mother of invention. And Google.<br />
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I was in the middle of making up some <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/06/cheaper-than-chinese.html" target="_blank">yummy, home made stir fry,</a> when I realized that we were totally out of stir fry sauce. Husband offered to go on a run to the store, but he wouldn't have been back in time.<br />
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To the internet!<br />
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I came across <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/easy-stir-fry-sauce-83624" target="_blank">this recipe on food.com</a>, which looked simple enough - and I had all of the ingredients. Time to grab a bowl. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1w4IeVwv5eGqILI368uBI7XhxLcEhab-QR9vVJwa7K7slfhPfY4bzrWz_mb8-tBWoo-e9-FdlE5Pn2IucBrsHFzX_veN2SwHlFtWphw3oqXeRHh-_u8kw66zopJaunjBP7OmSAkf6LTY/s1600/IMG_2160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1w4IeVwv5eGqILI368uBI7XhxLcEhab-QR9vVJwa7K7slfhPfY4bzrWz_mb8-tBWoo-e9-FdlE5Pn2IucBrsHFzX_veN2SwHlFtWphw3oqXeRHh-_u8kw66zopJaunjBP7OmSAkf6LTY/s320/IMG_2160.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I made a couple of minor changes as I went. This is an easy recipe to customize!<br />
<br />
<u>Ingredients:</u><br />
2-3 tbsp corn starch<br />
1/4 cup <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/06/stop-buying-brown-sugar.html" target="_blank">brown sugar</a> (I used white sugar and 1 tsp molasses)<br />
1/4 tsp ground ginger<br />
2 cloves garlic, minced (I had to use 2 tsp garlic powder. My kitchen really needs restocking!)<br />
1/2 cup soy sauce<br />
1/4 cup vinegar (I used white, but ACV is good, too)<br />
<i>1/2 cup water* (I left this out)</i><br />
1 1/2 cups broth* (<i>I used one cup of water and 1 cup of water and some <a href="http://www.superiortouch.com/retail/products/better-than-bouillon/premium-bases/36/vegetable-base" target="_blank">Better Than Bullion</a>)</i>.<br />
<br />
<i>*This sauce was very thin. I didn't want to spend time waiting for it to cook down (since my veggies were almost cooked), so I cut out a lot of the water, and could have cut still more.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Mix, use what you will, and freeze the rest for future meals. (This made about 3 batches worth for me).<br />
<br />
<br />
Personalize this! Make it your own! Feel in a citrusy mood? Add some orange juice. Feeling spicy? Add some crushed red pepper. It's a basic sauce, and is a great starting point.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Costs:</u></b><br />
Original: one bottle was getting us through 2 big meals and cost about $3. So $1.50 per use.<br />
DIY version: Nada. I had all the ingredients. So, $0.<br />
<br />
Man. The more I learn, the cheaper dinner is becoming! <br />
<br />
<i>Do you have a good grocery-saving tip? Send it in the comments! If it's really awesome, maybe you can do a guest post!</i><br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-37349591433998609712013-07-03T09:35:00.000-04:002013-07-03T09:35:50.631-04:00Abandon Brand NamesThe single most effective strategy for dumping cost at the grocery and other stores is this: IGNORE THE NAME. It was actually in a high school marketing class that I first learned that off-brand things are often made by the same factories making the name brand stuff.<br />
<br />
Think about it. There are factories making Glad sandwich bags. There are factories making Ziploc sandwich bags. Do you really think there are whole factories dedicated to making Walmart Great Value sandwich bags? Or do you think they farm it out to one of the big companies?<br />
<br />
I'm not saying that off-brand and name brand are exactly the same (although some times they are). They might be made to a lower standard, or with different materials, or a different pattern, etc. By buying cheaper, you may be getting what you pay for. <br />
<br />
But seriously...what do you need the product to do? Can that be done with the cheaper option? THEN CHOOSE THAT OPTION.<br />
<br />
Example:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcx631Cwqf1XAd9vzyKx9nL-_QsOaAsPXf76MK_TnlFu2u5BmMJGrKw5qgPO402Sn7jog5aqCIeWEIxCbIYeLU_eGS2rrsqO8wJ-nNWQC1TR42iiQQw06ssBoI-UI4DhTwcJY6WMqUy8/s1600/IMG_2069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcx631Cwqf1XAd9vzyKx9nL-_QsOaAsPXf76MK_TnlFu2u5BmMJGrKw5qgPO402Sn7jog5aqCIeWEIxCbIYeLU_eGS2rrsqO8wJ-nNWQC1TR42iiQQw06ssBoI-UI4DhTwcJY6WMqUy8/s320/IMG_2069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>$5.98 for 260 bags. That's $2.30 per 100.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhKiKlZJYYhKUJ9gp7eK8-snVOUBhOBbnQ1jrWogifXN9hPn0rcSH4UJfXV12jcmowtPRKuRskoQC83I5vz1P-xMvt8LZXSbr6iUFHR-abaGfNLznOqju4YDMbkd0gI4yMhTZp6W2P5o/s1600/IMG_2067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhKiKlZJYYhKUJ9gp7eK8-snVOUBhOBbnQ1jrWogifXN9hPn0rcSH4UJfXV12jcmowtPRKuRskoQC83I5vz1P-xMvt8LZXSbr6iUFHR-abaGfNLznOqju4YDMbkd0gI4yMhTZp6W2P5o/s320/IMG_2067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>$3.97 for 200 bags. That's $1.99 per 100.</i></div>
<br />
Are Ziploc bags better quality bags? Probably. <br />
<br />
But I'm using these bags to keep goldfish crackers from spilling all over my son's lunch box. For that, I don't need something especially thick. <br />
<br />
Nor do I need to be paying for name. Every penny counts.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-48053633144857912072013-06-29T20:51:00.000-04:002013-06-29T20:51:06.855-04:00Saving on ShavingIt's summer time! Know what that means? I have to shave my legs more often! Crap!<br />
<br />
I love summer. I really, genuinely do. Partially because I'm a teacher.<br />
<br />
I love the grilled dinners, the time with family, the fun activities, the sun, the sun, and the sun. <br />
<br />
Unfortunately, it means wearing shorts and skirts all the time, and since my number of maxi skirts is sadly limited, I really do have to shave my legs more than once a week. <br />
<br />
The problem with shaving: For years I have been using a Gillette Venus Divine. Unfortunately, the cartridges for those (and any other cartridge razors) are getting stupidly expensive.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAHA_GSPxwWmO8vOjX7wXtnKZVSyrbkcwhLyfpzbDg2jMA3-rG1xx1IjQr_Wr3HrjGJ7qEPHLqKM-5EkvxmUJy0O0k-JpOM3ahgncFhUfBtGXLZQuYzFjdQo85h1kGWzWsRtmoGOr87is/s1280/Venus+screen+shot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAHA_GSPxwWmO8vOjX7wXtnKZVSyrbkcwhLyfpzbDg2jMA3-rG1xx1IjQr_Wr3HrjGJ7qEPHLqKM-5EkvxmUJy0O0k-JpOM3ahgncFhUfBtGXLZQuYzFjdQo85h1kGWzWsRtmoGOr87is/s320/Venus+screen+shot.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Yeah. And this was the BEST price I found.</i></div>
<br />
You read that right: $21.99 for 8 cartridges. That's $2.75 per cartridge. There's got to be a better way.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
So, since these are so whomping expensive, I've been trying to make do with cartridges well after they've lost their usefulness. This means nicks, cuts, and poor shaves.<br />
<br />
Poking around <a href="http://www.reddit.com/" target="_blank">Reddit</a>, I came across someone with a similar problem. Redditors referred that person to a subreddit called <a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/wicked_edge/" target="_blank">Wicked Edge</a>. It's a subreddit (post board) entirely dedicated to shaving.<br />
<br />
Here was there advice: SWITCH TO AN OLD FASHIONED DOUBLE EDGE RAZOR.<br />
<br />
Seriously? Like in Mad Men?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2h9BEEgEdnTqvDRA9CjrXGpFJcLvto9TwnqXdPkUmag-MqCSVbBidk0JJItBH3wzQtkYKmZe3rdeyWPAJSOdmVAbFclsl0Rt-BhkPuuG3TJ7Pw5vVUJi65kOrZQbbyk0Da0MoFjinfA/s500/jon-hamm-reveals-premiere-date-mad-men-season-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2h9BEEgEdnTqvDRA9CjrXGpFJcLvto9TwnqXdPkUmag-MqCSVbBidk0JJItBH3wzQtkYKmZe3rdeyWPAJSOdmVAbFclsl0Rt-BhkPuuG3TJ7Pw5vVUJi65kOrZQbbyk0Da0MoFjinfA/s320/jon-hamm-reveals-premiere-date-mad-men-season-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>I couldn't find a picture of him shaving, but whatev. It's still Jon Hamm.</i></div>
<br />
But aren't those razors hard to use? Wouldn't I cut myself badly? Don't I have enough scars from the children?<br />
<br />
So, I went back and forth on this for a while before stumbling across a double edge razor while cruising this <a href="http://auntkatiesattic.com/" target="_blank">really cool vintage shop here.</a> It was in good shape and only $14, so I went for it. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcW9L3OoEuUeR7mJR6WAV7BbipUVHjMCbw-WnXCU3mJaTFVNeEcyhqROjYHX1ZPyQLcQz3cSvrjtE4duSzhpmz5WyJjJ3Qepy07wrGWl_l7pBl4x938mjapqyYvxylw5_xB57YjNTwnKQ/s1600/IMG_2080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcW9L3OoEuUeR7mJR6WAV7BbipUVHjMCbw-WnXCU3mJaTFVNeEcyhqROjYHX1ZPyQLcQz3cSvrjtE4duSzhpmz5WyJjJ3Qepy07wrGWl_l7pBl4x938mjapqyYvxylw5_xB57YjNTwnKQ/s320/IMG_2080.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>Look! It's a crummy picture of an awesome razor!</i></div>
<br />
<b style="text-decoration: underline;">STEP 1:</b> Clean the razor! This took a bowl of water, Dawn dish soap, and vinegar for 10 minutes, then a good blasting with the sprayer from my kitchen sink, and a rinse with isopropyl alcohol for good measure.<br />
<br />
<u style="font-weight: bold;">STEP 2:</u> Blades. I'll admit - I crapped out on this. You can buy really nice blades online for super cheap. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_12?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=double+edge+razor+blades&sprefix=double+edge+%2Caps%2C175" target="_blank">This page on Amazon is an easy place to start.</a> If you take a look, you'll see that blades range from about 45 cents down to about 8 cents. I got a pack of generic blades at the drug store - 10 for $5. <br />
<br />
That's 50 cents a blade. <br />
<br />
Please take a moment to compare that to $2.75 per cartridge.<br />
<br />
Yeah. That.<br />
<br />
<b><u>STEP 3:</u></b> Prep for shaving. Take a hot shower - bring the razor in with you. You will get a better shave with warm skin and a warm razor. Apply a nice shave cream (or cheap hair conditioner). <br />
<br />
<u><b>STEP 4:</b></u> Shave. <b>It's not the same as shaving with a cartridge razor!</b> The head is fixed, so be mindful of the angle. To avoid cuts, don't press too hard - just let the weight of the razor do most of the work. It might take more than one pass.<br />
<br />
<u><b>STEP 5:</b></u> Sit back and admire. I found that this method gives a closer shave, and leaves my skin in better shape than it has ever been.<br />
<br />
Oh, and nope. I didn't cut myself. Which is pretty much a miracle given my record of self injury. Yay!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-83259679937351212932013-05-19T08:13:00.002-04:002013-05-19T08:15:11.515-04:00Time Saves Money: Stalking A PurchaseI have been realizing that a large part of saving money is being willing to put in the time to get the best price on something. Today's post is one example.<br />
<br />
You may remember that I have been looking for a food processor. (I mentioned that it was why I was in <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2013/05/secondhand-shout-out.html" target="_blank">Goodwill</a> in the first place). <br />
<br />
See, I registered for a food processor years ago when Husband and I were getting married. Since I did very little cooking (or at least, very little that anyone would want to eat), and had no idea what a food processor was really for (processing food?), I got a very small one.<br />
<br />
Now, I'm cooking for four people, and trying to make stuff ahead of time and freeze it. Yeah. I'm going to need something...bigger. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Things I have tried to get the most for my money:<br />
1) Asking for a second-hand one on Freecycle<br />
2) Checking yard sales<br />
3) Checking Craigslist<br />
4) Checking ebay<br />
5) Stalking various food processors online<br />
<br />
Well, only the last one paid off. <br />
<br />
My parameters were to get something with a 10 cup bowl, and with as much functionality as possible, for under $40.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhHmzkPfsLZE-gBXvFN6sP6G8kQBgaQ471oJvQNalfUa208oVai7zDnq-DXPb4ozfo5ESzvD0gVP9vrwjq7gQ0RpTZXm_gjN9bjD5Q9rTncF5rJ6-SSyh9iQ9DrmIYrtNLPJaCsZ_0-w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-05-19+at+7.55.20+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhHmzkPfsLZE-gBXvFN6sP6G8kQBgaQ471oJvQNalfUa208oVai7zDnq-DXPb4ozfo5ESzvD0gVP9vrwjq7gQ0RpTZXm_gjN9bjD5Q9rTncF5rJ6-SSyh9iQ9DrmIYrtNLPJaCsZ_0-w/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-05-19+at+7.55.20+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Oh, the things I could process with you...</i></div>
<br />
A 10-cup bowl and the ability to shred and crinkle cut things, too??<br />
<br />
Done! I chose the ship-to-store option, which saved me shipping, but it won't be in for another week. <br />
<br />
I'll let you know how it goes when it gets here! I hate to get my hopes up, but I have plans...big plans. <br />
<br />
Hint: They involve vegetables. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-35816107536822492642013-05-13T19:10:00.004-04:002013-05-13T19:12:37.609-04:00Meal Stretcher Monday: Taco Seasoning MixMy lips are on fire. Allow me explain: Tonight is Burrito Night.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYEELHDIufnsVLzJ-miFhGBYLf7-j-cvw4Ky7Vmij6Q31hX1UnEzkdIAO27pe7wu1uwNhpALEYS3sH5rny67gDllHVqN-q6yJR6fhAnHLhMWN3c25bppTzP_sKHIs5b5rKX8EGxdUIAI/s1600/IMG_2007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYEELHDIufnsVLzJ-miFhGBYLf7-j-cvw4Ky7Vmij6Q31hX1UnEzkdIAO27pe7wu1uwNhpALEYS3sH5rny67gDllHVqN-q6yJR6fhAnHLhMWN3c25bppTzP_sKHIs5b5rKX8EGxdUIAI/s320/IMG_2007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Mmm. Burrito Night.</i></div>
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<div>
Usually, Husband makes up a meat filling and I make a vegetarian version, but we both add those envelopes of "taco seasoning" that have all sorts of ingredients that I can't pronounce. I have read in quite a few places that making your own seasoning mixes saves money, and keeps you away from ingredients that you may not want to be ingesting (preservatives, etc.) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm on it! Tonight's the night I make my own taco/burrito seasoning mix!<br />
<div>
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<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div>
A brief search of the internet reveals a lot of recipes. (Like, a lot. Apparently, this is a <i>thing</i>).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Tonight, I used <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/taco-seasoning-i/" target="_blank">this recipe from all recipes.com</a>, but with one minor change (I cut the salt in half). The recipe was highly rated, and I conveniently had all of the ingredients. See?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSBd0o-z_Twk9xzT3iEJlDiXru6lAnYVzWKMNK6KpezsjvGCaGnc3fDsTDL9C8XfkZn1JVKhzQuoVB19CY0iKK5gq6MVAwX3tcrfGqrtLFpZNh9hB_yBbwrx2haONleaEBMPPQ6K-s90/s1600/IMG_1996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSBd0o-z_Twk9xzT3iEJlDiXru6lAnYVzWKMNK6KpezsjvGCaGnc3fDsTDL9C8XfkZn1JVKhzQuoVB19CY0iKK5gq6MVAwX3tcrfGqrtLFpZNh9hB_yBbwrx2haONleaEBMPPQ6K-s90/s320/IMG_1996.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>My 3 y.o. son: "Mama, why you have the sneezenings?"</i></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I made a double batch - enough to fill my little 4 oz canning jar. Here are the amounts I used:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2 tablespoons chili powder</div>
<div>
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder</div>
<div>
1/2 teaspoon onion powder</div>
<div>
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper</div>
<div>
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano </div>
<div>
1 teaspoon paprika</div>
<div>
3 teaspoons ground cumin</div>
<div>
1 teaspoon of salt (half the amount of the original recipe)</div>
<div>
2 teaspoons of black pepper (in retrospect, this might have been a mistake)<br />
<br />
Pop it all into the jar, seal and shake it like it insulted your family. Therapeutic. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjusdJz3FmojY2yCe5IyDzmmM0YlxCCcOmNALcr51vVux0k6_aMk6em3IOYaqXK-LMFYb9lJBqbykVLc5okvuc2FF7A8MdJW2TaEZaGGJrUrchQh2E_kWxvVthyphenhyphengbX64T1HcwamFgRB-o/s1600/IMG_2004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjusdJz3FmojY2yCe5IyDzmmM0YlxCCcOmNALcr51vVux0k6_aMk6em3IOYaqXK-LMFYb9lJBqbykVLc5okvuc2FF7A8MdJW2TaEZaGGJrUrchQh2E_kWxvVthyphenhyphengbX64T1HcwamFgRB-o/s320/IMG_2004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Look! It's a jar of awesome!</i></div>
<br />
But how does it taste? If only tonight happened to be Burrito Night. Wait...IT IS BURRITO NIGHT!<br />
<br />
For the vegetarian burrito filling, I cooked together one package of Morningstar Farms Meal Starters crumbles, half a can of corn, and half a can of black beans. When cooked, I added two tablespoons of the seasoning.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVlEvJ56z7TauqMu4CC0LQkTEHSKGHVawoQLlWmOtwiXJ6hl1TJ2utvU5mlKXPL3RlEP7KCKoa9oeox5xE7Yhk2j-vf-FiVaUqNfltNp318eP_GfXcpt2JmlFtwoTV6XAmADrvmiOhOUA/s1600/IMG_2006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVlEvJ56z7TauqMu4CC0LQkTEHSKGHVawoQLlWmOtwiXJ6hl1TJ2utvU5mlKXPL3RlEP7KCKoa9oeox5xE7Yhk2j-vf-FiVaUqNfltNp318eP_GfXcpt2JmlFtwoTV6XAmADrvmiOhOUA/s320/IMG_2006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>You're jealous.</i></div>
<br />
In retrospect, that might have been my second mistake.<br />
<br />
It was delicious, but HOLY CURSEWORD MY MOUTH IS ON FIRE! (Actually, in the interest of accuracy, it faded to a tingling sort of numbness about 20 minutes after eating. Sort of like nerve damage, but tastier).<br />
<br />
I'm thinking next time, one tablespoon will be a better idea. And sour cream. Frozen sour cream. <br />
<br />
Sweet holy mother of God.<br />
<br />
(It is delicious, though).<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYEELHDIufnsVLzJ-miFhGBYLf7-j-cvw4Ky7Vmij6Q31hX1UnEzkdIAO27pe7wu1uwNhpALEYS3sH5rny67gDllHVqN-q6yJR6fhAnHLhMWN3c25bppTzP_sKHIs5b5rKX8EGxdUIAI/s1600/IMG_2007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYEELHDIufnsVLzJ-miFhGBYLf7-j-cvw4Ky7Vmij6Q31hX1UnEzkdIAO27pe7wu1uwNhpALEYS3sH5rny67gDllHVqN-q6yJR6fhAnHLhMWN3c25bppTzP_sKHIs5b5rKX8EGxdUIAI/s320/IMG_2007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Oh, fiery goodness.</i></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-29206852967028833782013-05-08T08:35:00.000-04:002013-05-08T08:35:00.509-04:00Secondhand Shout OutI rarely buy "new" clothes. I happen to really love cruising for second-hand awesomeness at thrift shops, consignment stores, Goodwill, and the Salvation Army. The other day I went to work like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32kcHBV67ZActjrYrOQQItL-e1oxCT6oKOQSpvrZwcs_kHNqlNudAHCDn-AJL-Sq065EUc7VS-ctaaNvI5OyoeRR51TpKQPYfCxvcKncN4UsjfPw-v7xJPHweDXpBLkKZsnYxJT6sDSc/s1600/IMG_1003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32kcHBV67ZActjrYrOQQItL-e1oxCT6oKOQSpvrZwcs_kHNqlNudAHCDn-AJL-Sq065EUc7VS-ctaaNvI5OyoeRR51TpKQPYfCxvcKncN4UsjfPw-v7xJPHweDXpBLkKZsnYxJT6sDSc/s320/IMG_1003.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>This picture is actually from last year, so to be accurate, add new glasses and 5 pounds. </i></div>
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<i>...alright. 10 pounds. Stupid cookies.</i></div>
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So, how much did it cost?<br />
<br />
This entire outfit came from a secondhand shop here called Clothes Mentor. Here's the breakdown:<br />
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Funky awesome dress: $8<br />
Belt to keep dress from looking like a funky awesome nightgown: $6<br />
NEW Etienne Aigner heels: $10<br />
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The jewelry came from the back of my drawer (I forgot I had that set), so this entire outfit cost me $24. <br />
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And I get a lot of compliments whenever I wear it. (<i>Singing</i>: <i>I feel pretty! And so thrifty</i>!)<br />
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But wait! There's more!<br />
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This Halloween I dressed as Dorothy (from the Wizard of Oz - not Elmo's fish).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTG-WMlwZ3cK8T5XjPvNmoxpOon8gc4SIDcFbSWg8QOn0aiL6B1dxvNenS5uEGmJOXEnByJlweWsFtZoNlumz6CChyEvvGEoHYbvTX7JgNDauCBGySl_FTpgL_-6Kj695x4jox5VNDAJc/s1600/IMG_1506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTG-WMlwZ3cK8T5XjPvNmoxpOon8gc4SIDcFbSWg8QOn0aiL6B1dxvNenS5uEGmJOXEnByJlweWsFtZoNlumz6CChyEvvGEoHYbvTX7JgNDauCBGySl_FTpgL_-6Kj695x4jox5VNDAJc/s320/IMG_1506.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>With my kids: Super Mario and Spiderman</i></div>
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But what can I do for ruby slippers?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3w-RDxvIdkZ3hTGiDr7C7k9Q_wkt52vpYtPX25trlpVMSTlenZgkEqiJDAdmkzOTP_x74YLrT6ZgfTh6CWCJIoIkuPdqZldSyIDqY6ynWsmXTdYPZZv52gD7uJeWILnpq0hHtALuxVk/s1600/IMG_1510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3w-RDxvIdkZ3hTGiDr7C7k9Q_wkt52vpYtPX25trlpVMSTlenZgkEqiJDAdmkzOTP_x74YLrT6ZgfTh6CWCJIoIkuPdqZldSyIDqY6ynWsmXTdYPZZv52gD7uJeWILnpq0hHtALuxVk/s320/IMG_1510.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>There's no place like thrift shops... There's no place like thrift shops...</i></div>
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These shoes came from the same store: again, only $10. (<i>Reprise: I feel pretty!...)</i><br />
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Okay, more. I had the honor last spring of being my niece's confirmation sponsor (it's a Catholic thing, if you're not familiar). I wore one of my favorite blouses:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4Tbss2w1X8J4ynVjS5s4y1E6daQ_zLZtscIHGoPI1wFfk_pz0b5yD05eF_GmK2DCa05oN6kIFckt9QhQ7gSQQfUFmMk8kzU3N_ewZp212roP1nEqnDx8AGxnjVAbZVq-3OWVtSmq47s/s1600/IMG_0912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4Tbss2w1X8J4ynVjS5s4y1E6daQ_zLZtscIHGoPI1wFfk_pz0b5yD05eF_GmK2DCa05oN6kIFckt9QhQ7gSQQfUFmMk8kzU3N_ewZp212roP1nEqnDx8AGxnjVAbZVq-3OWVtSmq47s/s320/IMG_0912.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>It's my niece lovely? </i></div>
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That blouse cost me $4.50 at Goodwill. You can see in this picture, but it has a really pretty slanted hem and the fabric drapes very nicely. It's professional enough for work, and comfortable enough for a movie night with my husband. <br />
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I swear this is the last one. For now.<br />
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Yesterday, while I was cruising Goodwill in the vague hopes of finding a food processor, I came across this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtOm2YAkSjwHCy9iWjw9lQiRo64-J0yAvfRdda5IQEOu5K59BizBxSi__aqHRfrBT3_IBqxcIJZfW418LYRyvu5DuoFPEvpo4bhToDcLJCTzF9wo-3aGUeJBm2_VpP9z4j4oXOIYFqcw/s1600/IMG_1986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtOm2YAkSjwHCy9iWjw9lQiRo64-J0yAvfRdda5IQEOu5K59BizBxSi__aqHRfrBT3_IBqxcIJZfW418LYRyvu5DuoFPEvpo4bhToDcLJCTzF9wo-3aGUeJBm2_VpP9z4j4oXOIYFqcw/s320/IMG_1986.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>"Replica"</i></div>
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This is a Kate Spade replica (read: knock off) that I scored for $14. It needs a minor repair on the snap, but is great otherwise. <br />
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That same Goodwill trip netted me a lovely purple striped maxi skirt (new with tags from Target), but I'm about 5 pounds away from wearing it. Again, cookies.<br />
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Happy shopping!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-40068496314530286442013-05-05T13:30:00.000-04:002013-05-05T13:30:01.114-04:00Cheap Trick: Freeze PB&J <i>I've been focusing most of this blog's posts on saving money. But what about saving other things, like time and energy? I'm introducing Cheap Tricks - shortcuts that will make life a little less of a hassle, if not a little more frugal.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>In a post a few months ago, I advocated saving money by bagging lunch. The only comment on that post was a BRILLIANT contribution from a woman posting as momma-lana. She said that I could make the pb&j sandwiches ahead of time and freeze them. <br />
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Like I said: BRILLIANT. Now, if I'm on top of my game, I make sandwiches on Sundays, put them into reusable containers, and freeze them for the week.<br />
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Mornings are so much easier.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcC0lb6EoIo8Th1knbJC-GkFvDJQiKjcog-3OD36zaGWR0umSyvppozO24aLmKIq0rv2IEtwk2kT7D5eZlycbUUrFqNtwD4gFy7qWmdOmMRsQvyDJIgvgV7yWH2X1GK-uqw1EqKbdAfMs/s1600/IMG_1965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcC0lb6EoIo8Th1knbJC-GkFvDJQiKjcog-3OD36zaGWR0umSyvppozO24aLmKIq0rv2IEtwk2kT7D5eZlycbUUrFqNtwD4gFy7qWmdOmMRsQvyDJIgvgV7yWH2X1GK-uqw1EqKbdAfMs/s320/IMG_1965.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Sunday night.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZhg3hznN6lgLgqGQ11183gb5RwY7csLdmeJy6kROu3637WmWeZobc2Ks2hr5fo7u-bTa7tEH6vpqKPqvDF0xSNxDZ98-nzFlSBzu2Xm0twNi7kpnYnoDJBnsqONfMfQ9Sbds6BjN1Mw/s1600/IMG_1966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZhg3hznN6lgLgqGQ11183gb5RwY7csLdmeJy6kROu3637WmWeZobc2Ks2hr5fo7u-bTa7tEH6vpqKPqvDF0xSNxDZ98-nzFlSBzu2Xm0twNi7kpnYnoDJBnsqONfMfQ9Sbds6BjN1Mw/s320/IMG_1966.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>Monday morning.</i></div>
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Now, if I could figure out what happened to the other reusable containers, I'd be set past Wednesday. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-68975814324418677112013-05-04T19:11:00.003-04:002013-05-04T19:13:00.362-04:00Grout ScrubbingI have been cleaning the bathrooms. It's horrible work, especially when parts just don't seem to ever look clean. For example:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcD-W2tBLgi5VVF_7bpfSc9GcpZcLLPdh3XE-1L8mnAZaEEu2ed5tscR15AKG1oV9WoKJo2Bax8AXT9dac7QRznIessBmOJKCMR2TZp4dojcx62fvfdmoDy4RwiFaibQVKgi25DgbUi1Y/s1600/IMG_1973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcD-W2tBLgi5VVF_7bpfSc9GcpZcLLPdh3XE-1L8mnAZaEEu2ed5tscR15AKG1oV9WoKJo2Bax8AXT9dac7QRznIessBmOJKCMR2TZp4dojcx62fvfdmoDy4RwiFaibQVKgi25DgbUi1Y/s320/IMG_1973.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Ewww.</i></div>
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This is a picture of the icky, possibly sentient, black line along the base of the tub in my children's bathroom. The caulk there is old, and it's just not coming clean. If only I could get it at least a little closer to its old, white self.<br />
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Wait a sec. Didn't I just totally remove a bad stain (like a boss) from my mattress? <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2013/04/clean-pee-from-mattress.html" target="_blank">Why, yes. Yes, I did.</a> I wonder if the same peroxide and baking soda combination would work here. Let's try it!<br />
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Into the spray bottle went 4 ounces of peroxide and 1.5 tablespoons of baking soda. Unfortunately, the spray bottle sucked (yay dollar store), and I wound up pouring the solution onto the stained area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtFbw3wXrLy5TqwtXM0gno9fNj9uRiVYuhG8-O5DziyigMGBMjEZRtnXiibUve5ratahAtAR6sO3ziUwjj67yB7fjhQtu8ARAoFBsYn-ThWa3tTa0RSfc3TXUaY6r1EJrgCv1l6rQ89Y/s1600/IMG_1975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtFbw3wXrLy5TqwtXM0gno9fNj9uRiVYuhG8-O5DziyigMGBMjEZRtnXiibUve5ratahAtAR6sO3ziUwjj67yB7fjhQtu8ARAoFBsYn-ThWa3tTa0RSfc3TXUaY6r1EJrgCv1l6rQ89Y/s320/IMG_1975.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Ooo. Foamy.</i></div>
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After 10 minutes, I gave it a good scrub.<br />
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Voila!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinydQpeytfbinCMLpvGF5_5q2ptuPxP48XOXCCcQJY9HmgqK8m66Owlqng2VT_UXY1oXBQmNxMLPIEG3VXfO0NohFglUL21EVWVX-YD_rROFEOGnUH1hDSy8194bRf4waxzvUEzFGfr4o/s1600/IMG_1977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinydQpeytfbinCMLpvGF5_5q2ptuPxP48XOXCCcQJY9HmgqK8m66Owlqng2VT_UXY1oXBQmNxMLPIEG3VXfO0NohFglUL21EVWVX-YD_rROFEOGnUH1hDSy8194bRf4waxzvUEzFGfr4o/s320/IMG_1977.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Less creepy!</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
Now, I know it isn't perfect, BUT it's a good start. What this allowed me to see was that the caulk at the base of the tub was totally failing. Now all I need a tube of caulk (and fifteen minutes without interruption), and I can once again have a good seal at the base of this tub. Finally.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-82141537640250788832013-04-21T09:31:00.002-04:002013-04-21T16:53:55.364-04:00Clean Your Lint Screen As much as I love the idea of being one of those awesome off-the-grid type survivalist home makers, I am not. I love my appliances. I know that I probably COULD get by without them, like in a nuclear war type emergency, but barring the zombie apocalypse, I do enjoy labor-saving machines. <br />
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For instance, my dryer. <br />
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I know what you're going to say. I should line dry clothes and save money and energy, but I'm not there yet. We have an itty bitty little yard, and I will try to set up a clothes line this summer. In the meantime, I am in love with the dryer.<br />
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As with anyone I love, I want to see it happy and healthy. The lint screen is super important for this. I clean it out after every load...but is that enough? Some times we use dryer sheets, and I have heard that this can leave a film over the lint screen that makes air move through less efficiently. Let's check.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGiONbE9AW3Y7upP5Bx4WdCbyZHaY9G2oHmjRept3qFsP62DnuBr3fJj-fBKecPQFwkk_Ks3yYRf_-xpf8AU7UnPufAPKIEhIHe-ZCtDheD4X0x0I6DZT88EtIo87JlamVnF3-OHNfa4/s1600/IMG_1910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGiONbE9AW3Y7upP5Bx4WdCbyZHaY9G2oHmjRept3qFsP62DnuBr3fJj-fBKecPQFwkk_Ks3yYRf_-xpf8AU7UnPufAPKIEhIHe-ZCtDheD4X0x0I6DZT88EtIo87JlamVnF3-OHNfa4/s320/IMG_1910.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>That's not good.</i></div>
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If the water is having a hard time passing through the filter, so is the air. That's unfortunate. It means that the dryer is not able to work as efficiently because it is not getting proper air flow. This can BREAK YOUR DRYER. <br />
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<i>(I can't handle that thought. Did I mention that I love my dryer?)</i><br />
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Thank God and the internet that there's an easy fix! Coincidentally, it's the same fix for most of the build-up issues in my house: white vinegar.<br />
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I sprayed the filter down with vinegar, and gave it a quick scrub.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-v-u242xwCGfsmc-ziVWS_mCQxdEKjqEw0QbHk9gd-IAWlG79S2w8UcViDfe_gIXw-05Aky1mlzdLIvFUjofxXuEECyHftROvqZWDTU4p6h0aPPSDSBgEpuAASLpCAD1llFmqyB0rxrM/s1600/IMG_1911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-v-u242xwCGfsmc-ziVWS_mCQxdEKjqEw0QbHk9gd-IAWlG79S2w8UcViDfe_gIXw-05Aky1mlzdLIvFUjofxXuEECyHftROvqZWDTU4p6h0aPPSDSBgEpuAASLpCAD1llFmqyB0rxrM/s320/IMG_1911.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The water runs right through now! My nice, clean lint screen is back in my dryer, catching lint like a boss. Hopefully my dryer will work even better for it, and lasts for years to come. <br />
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Did I mention that dryer service calls start at $147 through Sears? I just hopefully prevented a problem for less than a penny. Sounds good to me.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-88932134109488033982013-04-15T06:00:00.000-04:002013-04-15T06:00:00.827-04:00Meal Stretcher Monday: Check Your EggsI hate wasting food. Today I stood holding an entire carton of eggs that I had let slip past their expiration date unused. Rookie mistake.<br />
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But...they're only one day past the date....I wonder if they might still be good...?<br />
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Apparently, there's an easy trick for this:<br />
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Healthy eggs will sink in cold water, while spoiled eggs will float.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFS_UiKtWAb_aj5q6w4YJ6Ml6jUTliq4wLIL3_U7ku1W3XoEu4XQgsd5kqqREw6xNzYmW7VAuyhxfY6e6vbFIJnGFafcvzaJCDYLp5ZKNrW4CEMMXr3r04OVO9FfKOj7GYSN16M7nSew/s1600/IMG_1872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFS_UiKtWAb_aj5q6w4YJ6Ml6jUTliq4wLIL3_U7ku1W3XoEu4XQgsd5kqqREw6xNzYmW7VAuyhxfY6e6vbFIJnGFafcvzaJCDYLp5ZKNrW4CEMMXr3r04OVO9FfKOj7GYSN16M7nSew/s320/IMG_1872.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Healthy eggs.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7y0EZEwaV-k1Kt1MTNJ1aCf7WaoojlrcX6LIbjLfncN-HMs9ojc-sHa_0PZmjeYCT3QEHmr4q0CevjbjdKviFLk0CpVHZ5lx0u1QRK7sx5uqj93laA2wQJGFHitCF6xTPxcORZcWkqG4/s1600/IMG_1871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7y0EZEwaV-k1Kt1MTNJ1aCf7WaoojlrcX6LIbjLfncN-HMs9ojc-sHa_0PZmjeYCT3QEHmr4q0CevjbjdKviFLk0CpVHZ5lx0u1QRK7sx5uqj93laA2wQJGFHitCF6xTPxcORZcWkqG4/s320/IMG_1871.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Spoiled eggs.</i></div>
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Done! About a minute of work and zero dollars just saved me 9 whole eggs! <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-53836641947570376572013-04-13T15:24:00.000-04:002013-04-13T15:24:25.564-04:00DIY Soft ScrubThere's pen on <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/04/saga-of-table.html" target="_blank">my table</a>. There is PEN on <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/04/saga-of-table.html" target="_blank">MY TABLE</a>.<br />
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THERE IS PEN ON MY TABLE! THE TABLE THAT I SLAVED OVER AND <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/04/saga-of-table.html" target="_blank">REFINISHED MYSELF</a>!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-I0jftWH97_oeSo4j4faTsvcx30yst4uFuQKzOmVhqV1HV45kqrL7ecJsZrlt2didVvFJSTRpnd8VvEnLD8S7nbEPU7VhXjJizvg1k7WMScUuC56Mup4Nu2gr5GGZZUj9np2kzblQ0I/s1600/IMG_1900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-I0jftWH97_oeSo4j4faTsvcx30yst4uFuQKzOmVhqV1HV45kqrL7ecJsZrlt2didVvFJSTRpnd8VvEnLD8S7nbEPU7VhXjJizvg1k7WMScUuC56Mup4Nu2gr5GGZZUj9np2kzblQ0I/s320/IMG_1900.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>I blame the toddler.</i></div>
<div>
<br />
@#%$. Now what?<br />
<br />
Hm...a few of my go-to cleaning mavens recommend <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/23350662?findingMethod=rr" target="_blank">Soft Scrub.</a> Let's see. Should I add another $6 or so bucks to my next grocery trip? Or just try to make something myself? <br />
<br />
What do you <i>think</i> my answer is going to be?<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
To tackle this hurtful assault on my beloved table, I decided to grab my three favorite cleaning supplies: <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/04/spray-cleaner.html" target="_blank">spray cleaner,</a> baking soda, and a <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/05/paper-towels-suck.html" target="_blank">wash cloth.</a> <br />
<br />
Step 1: Spray the table.<br />
Step 2: Sprinkle on the baking soda.<br />
Step 3: Scrub.<br />
<br />
A few minutes later: Voila!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFXvUE3-2H6sh3EEQRtlp0mFK0CuIAByAq8JiY1B3YPL8AE8SwA-Jdpmj4ys5mVMWsk7S8Atn9Web0TVYOP1hAjZYP9Ma1TBpXACuELklycdWb1Wd8hGkJlgCqHgAb4LLI-DqGaUR5XGU/s1600/IMG_1906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFXvUE3-2H6sh3EEQRtlp0mFK0CuIAByAq8JiY1B3YPL8AE8SwA-Jdpmj4ys5mVMWsk7S8Atn9Web0TVYOP1hAjZYP9Ma1TBpXACuELklycdWb1Wd8hGkJlgCqHgAb4LLI-DqGaUR5XGU/s320/IMG_1906.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Thank God.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
...And the toddler lives to see another day! But not another pen.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-10351251747062447252013-04-08T05:00:00.000-04:002013-04-08T05:00:06.642-04:00Meal Stretcher Monday: Microwave PopcornMy older son is in kindergarten. I get daily reports as a part of a behavior plan for him (I may have mentioned before, but he has Asperger's Syndrome). If he does well, he gets a special snack when he gets home.<br />
<br />
He always selects popcorn as a snack. Always.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yX4wr7YXZc8oi3P42D1OhXyRRojbC_X2jUTS4LPJhuwjjT8R8kR6y_6rjmXhhDils-_dmHQsTKq2zA5NQlJ4eAjOOgQrQSmIvR1a4ZswMKCGtMklcq5gjva21i6lXIWbniqCqdYN8vU/s1600/IMG_1890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yX4wr7YXZc8oi3P42D1OhXyRRojbC_X2jUTS4LPJhuwjjT8R8kR6y_6rjmXhhDils-_dmHQsTKq2zA5NQlJ4eAjOOgQrQSmIvR1a4ZswMKCGtMklcq5gjva21i6lXIWbniqCqdYN8vU/s320/IMG_1890.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We've been stocking up on microwave popcorn, which is both expensive, and kind of slimy and gross.<br />
<br />
I was looking into getting an air popper (mine died years ago), but I came across a few people in a post board saying that I could air pop corn in a microwave.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
I asked my sister (a font of culinary knowledge) and she pops her in paper bags in the microwave - no oil or other sliminess required.<br />
<br />
I have no paper bags, but no worries. According to the internet I can do this in a covered bowl.<br />
<br />
Here's what we need:<br />
A microwave safe bowl<br />
A microwave safe cover for the bowl (I used a plate)<br />
1/4 cup popcorn kernels<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_liJA_9FhgkP_qTsAWGH7hlpIvSfzsC52IvuRxB_YeNqOpUknDRfjBDDwz6tsRNTG-vApJ3s3a6AHgMwF-uRlRqwduW6BOYc77bZpUoOOfZ7ss4yq9BZJd47K7EBbQCV0WTzvF9aTJYk/s1600/IMG_1887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_liJA_9FhgkP_qTsAWGH7hlpIvSfzsC52IvuRxB_YeNqOpUknDRfjBDDwz6tsRNTG-vApJ3s3a6AHgMwF-uRlRqwduW6BOYc77bZpUoOOfZ7ss4yq9BZJd47K7EBbQCV0WTzvF9aTJYk/s320/IMG_1887.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Pour the popcorn in the bowl</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TUBGr-pBrZ9eTHJaONeq4ttk-a7Q7vaSWpFHh8zZgwuqDejbq6h6LlIjh_02re_SNLOQLjB7OEcGAWwTy50MuI4FPFzRpg_DIMwcQFSDv1-JwaXB50VlKwjl7dqXyEoayop9757aLpE/s1600/IMG_1888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TUBGr-pBrZ9eTHJaONeq4ttk-a7Q7vaSWpFHh8zZgwuqDejbq6h6LlIjh_02re_SNLOQLjB7OEcGAWwTy50MuI4FPFzRpg_DIMwcQFSDv1-JwaXB50VlKwjl7dqXyEoayop9757aLpE/s320/IMG_1888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Cover and microwave.</i> </div>
<br />
I put this on for 3 minutes and stopped it when I heard the pops slow down. (If the time is running out and the popping sounds are still going, just add time). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOGVay1R68uYgdC8UZe6PcaPEcku43U7Hm_hP_n_KMmbjCEIIx5ZlmhmDfLbl79J4UAVvoMGK6yL-V1BjEHK2cttCgnbFyMLkjiqPxX7p6UHYLmy8PJAiaAznzAnHlzB9q2uBqGGcSixc/s1600/IMG_1889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOGVay1R68uYgdC8UZe6PcaPEcku43U7Hm_hP_n_KMmbjCEIIx5ZlmhmDfLbl79J4UAVvoMGK6yL-V1BjEHK2cttCgnbFyMLkjiqPxX7p6UHYLmy8PJAiaAznzAnHlzB9q2uBqGGcSixc/s320/IMG_1889.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>VERY CAREFULLY take the cover off. It's HOT.</i></div>
<br />
If it's so hot, why not let the bowl and plate cool before touching them? Because ...SCIENCE! Corn pops when the water in the kernel turns to steam, expands, and ruptures the hard outer layer of the kernel. The soft starch inside the kernel then expands to make the fluffy part. <br />
<br />
What does this have to do with removing the cover? Simple. The steam that just left the kernel is going to condense back into water and drip on your popcorn if you wait for it to cool before uncovering it. And who wants wet popcorn? Honestly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEKoIyv8-L8npUoGN6LGf9LHAAvcDReFBqywOX8c0TY75EFBw_RQ7frTkvfDU_2Aykm3m6H3JbC2S5u3zqG1ku5S3Iq2RBetr5NGbW9fsSzeJnXPmuFYAk4VG3riHoyIKEiSlPl8Z204/s1600/IMG_1890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEKoIyv8-L8npUoGN6LGf9LHAAvcDReFBqywOX8c0TY75EFBw_RQ7frTkvfDU_2Aykm3m6H3JbC2S5u3zqG1ku5S3Iq2RBetr5NGbW9fsSzeJnXPmuFYAk4VG3riHoyIKEiSlPl8Z204/s320/IMG_1890.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Yummy.</i></div>
What are the benefits of this?<br />
1) It's delicious.<br />
2) It's healthy.<br />
3) It costs pennies per serving.<br />
4) Cleanup is a dream (pretty much rinsing the bowl and plate).<br />
5) If you put the unpopped kernels in a second time, they POP. So there's no waste.<br />
6) You don't actually have to measure, since you're just listening to the pops to see when it's done.<br />
7) You can make any serving size you want, as often as you want.<br />
8) If your bowl is clear, you can watch it pop, and dance around to the popping sounds like we did.<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to a lot of popcorn afternoons.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-56524545246168236112013-04-05T06:00:00.000-04:002013-04-05T06:00:11.537-04:00Clean Pee from a MattressI love curse words. Especially on days like today.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I realized in my addled, early morning state, that the Toddler of Doom had a Pull-up failure during the night. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Next to me. </div>
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<br /></div>
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In my bed. </div>
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$%^&*#@.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
But wait! We have one of those expensive, ultra-protective mattress pads! Thank goodness!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh...what do you mean it's in the laundry?</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>$%^&*#@.</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1O09tRLjOyLCuwYvO7BW2vvfNTPRB4CuXC-9iHUyUx4aB26aJFkoYN-JEq5DDJJQjIF_4U_MKxcIWf2Hhpb7tdoOaO4osULTVxxJqK03XWqzSQsByQ_1AbgLddj_wbpY6iWrsShnBWs/s1600/IMG_1884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1O09tRLjOyLCuwYvO7BW2vvfNTPRB4CuXC-9iHUyUx4aB26aJFkoYN-JEq5DDJJQjIF_4U_MKxcIWf2Hhpb7tdoOaO4osULTVxxJqK03XWqzSQsByQ_1AbgLddj_wbpY6iWrsShnBWs/s320/IMG_1884.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>NOOOOOOO! Not the Stearns & Foster!</i></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
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Okay, it's not easy to see from this picture (did I mention that it was EARLY?), but this is a big, yellow, stinking (literally stinking), URINE STAIN ON MY BEAUTIFUL KING-SIZED PILLOW TOP MATTRESS. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Our mattress is less than a year old. Something must be done.</div>
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<br /></div>
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To the internet!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit928emKPMT_KJCNLUx7JEyi94_gvToVqq_lYqNVCw-NHBQHgozi9LLeFkhaP1jz3g30y_tetFLzLJ3g-3BdDySqxR20ehrsKBlB6HSdA4J7T2nS_U1hlqppYuDOPNySJJkLWVluyh2rc/s1600/IMG_1881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit928emKPMT_KJCNLUx7JEyi94_gvToVqq_lYqNVCw-NHBQHgozi9LLeFkhaP1jz3g30y_tetFLzLJ3g-3BdDySqxR20ehrsKBlB6HSdA4J7T2nS_U1hlqppYuDOPNySJJkLWVluyh2rc/s320/IMG_1881.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>Not my finest photo work, but I'll take it.</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A quick poke-about led me to <a href="http://www.inspired-housewife.com/2012/03/30/how-to-get-pee-stains-out-of-a-mattress/">this post from Inspired-Housewife.</a> My mattress stain was not as big as hers, so I used a half batch. Here's the whole recipe, in case the pee stain that comes to ruin your morning turns out bigger than this:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
8 ounces 3% hydrogen peroxide</div>
<div>
3 tablespoons baking soda</div>
<div>
a drop of liquid dish soap</div>
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a spray bottle</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
In the original, Inspired Housewife included a funnel (I imagine for adding the baking soda to the spray bottle). I don't have one, so I improvised with a piece of paper and some stellar ingenuity.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiehMoYhFw58v_REf1x7p1z_pKgQ6gZJyojBwXlNveQNu9JTl6sh4mi88m2PcssxZNco20jZf62tkoZxLOa_oMwlS1jzvfcnqHHWVo_iAu-zw7zxbNbb_GV1CFRCnpmX7pcFyUTvuup_TM/s1600/IMG_1882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiehMoYhFw58v_REf1x7p1z_pKgQ6gZJyojBwXlNveQNu9JTl6sh4mi88m2PcssxZNco20jZf62tkoZxLOa_oMwlS1jzvfcnqHHWVo_iAu-zw7zxbNbb_GV1CFRCnpmX7pcFyUTvuup_TM/s320/IMG_1882.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>Brilliant. I know.</i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Give it a good shake, and get spraying! I soaked the stain, then took a fifteen minute break to cry softly and explain to my kids that this is why we can't have nice things.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Lwn3Xz8iTG0cMXdrFbTN27-SwMCdD877beMDmmOWW_L0gXRbOHgC_RAASWTpM8LWrFanZ237hAkh_Zl3Yp2yhc9fDDhUYErJtRkzKmauo4gjokaqjtxDcyWY7fwrM02bF-in6GgH__8/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Lwn3Xz8iTG0cMXdrFbTN27-SwMCdD877beMDmmOWW_L0gXRbOHgC_RAASWTpM8LWrFanZ237hAkh_Zl3Yp2yhc9fDDhUYErJtRkzKmauo4gjokaqjtxDcyWY7fwrM02bF-in6GgH__8/s320/IMG_1886.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><b>OMFGITWORKED!!!!</b></i></div>
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<div>
HOORAY! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
After it dried, I poured some baking soda over the spot and left it a while, then vacuumed it away (just to kill any last vestiges of pee smell).</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
God bless the internet. </div>
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<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-40727370220680857072013-04-03T06:17:00.000-04:002013-04-03T06:17:00.767-04:00I Love You, Library.I read. <br />
<br />
A lot.<br />
<br />
My ideal day is to sit in a soft chair with a cup of coffee and a book. And possibly cookies. But I digress.<br />
<br />
We live near the only Barnes and Noble for miles. I used to spend an inordinate amount of money and time there. It was a weekly ritual to go, sit in a soft chair, and buy a book and a coffee. And possibly cookies.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6r_JxrDdRriT7vvs6FOJlZsMMogokjM-JHAYkars2T_RbAth-vBpihsnOPnFtIvB14rXZHROCj0cZFUN5SLz9n5DcFJ6NZCTnBNBh0aFwsGK45wRqLz_VWBgtaSWmkZQ1qKFZVWYEOX8/s1600/2180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6r_JxrDdRriT7vvs6FOJlZsMMogokjM-JHAYkars2T_RbAth-vBpihsnOPnFtIvB14rXZHROCj0cZFUN5SLz9n5DcFJ6NZCTnBNBh0aFwsGK45wRqLz_VWBgtaSWmkZQ1qKFZVWYEOX8/s1600/2180.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
When my cubs came along and disposable income became a mythical creature that I rarely spot, I had to stop frequenting my favorite book store. Instead, I became the most loyal patron of my local library.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcjtBI1iHIcoh47AKiQpLmC84kbwMb6sje2A3LgPDyYejn0b23kHzwIIguS2zTOBrPdI_Xb3K0svvCnT4aHvTnvZRSRpwWKawf8GnammeuWCNCgecuCo-C7OL9UPcf2T6noolabG-Oj0/s1600/628x471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcjtBI1iHIcoh47AKiQpLmC84kbwMb6sje2A3LgPDyYejn0b23kHzwIIguS2zTOBrPdI_Xb3K0svvCnT4aHvTnvZRSRpwWKawf8GnammeuWCNCgecuCo-C7OL9UPcf2T6noolabG-Oj0/s320/628x471.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
How much did the library save me this year? Well, let's find out. Here's a partial list of what I have read this year*:<br />
<i>*It's a partial list because I know I have read more, but these are the ones I remember off the top of my head. I started writing them down on a sheet of paper, but that has fallen into the paper vortex that clearly exists somewhere in this house.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
The <i>Wheel of Time</i> series by Robert Jordan: 14 books (minus the autographed one I own and the final book I bought in hardcover) 12 books. Costs to buy new: about $9 each (paperback), or about <b>$110</b>.<br />
<br />
The <i>Percy Jackson and the Olympians</i> series by Rick Riordan: 5 books about $8 each = <b>$40</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
The <i>Song of Ice and Fire</i> series by George R.R. Martin: 5 books about $10 each = <b>$50</b><br />
<br />
<i>The Name of the Wind</i> by Patrick Rothfuss = <b>$12</b><br />
<br />
<i>Martha: a Novel </i>by Diana Wallis Taylor = <b>$6</b><br />
<br />
<i>The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie</i> by Alan Bradley= <b>$9 </b><br />
<br />
<i>Luka and the Fire of Life</i> by Salman Rushdie = <b>$12</b><br />
<br />
...and then I lost track. <br />
<br />
If you are keeping score, that's <b>$239 </b>so far.<br />
<br />
Wow. And that's only the stuff I can remember. Imagine how much it would be if I could find that dang paper...<br />
<br />
The library offers other media, too! I wanted to see the <i>Game of Thrones</i> HBO series, but we don't have HBO. My library has seasons 1 and 2, so I checked them out. That's <b>$29</b> and <b>$38</b> respectively.<br />
<br />
So, now we're up to <b>$306</b>. <br />
<br />
And we're not even including the kids' books, or the events, or how awesome and nice the librarians are, or the free wireless internet, or how much my kids love to play in the toy area with other kids, etc.<br />
<br />
If you don't have one already, go get a library card. It takes less than a minute and costs you nothing at all. <br />
<br />
Thank God for the library!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-13582541265301759882013-04-01T15:39:00.001-04:002013-04-01T15:39:45.314-04:00Meal Stretcher Monday: Check the Unit PriceFor Easter I was going to make risotto (If you are unfamiliar, it's a creamy sort of rice dish from northern Italy). This requires a special kind of short grain rice called arborio rice. It has a high starch content, which gives the dish it's creamy texture (there's no actual cream in the dish). <br />
<br />
Walmart ain't the right place to get arborio rice. They don't exactly offer higher end international stuff. <br />
<br />
Off to the local co-op. I found several brands and sizes . Usually, I buy in larger packages because it winds up cheaper in the long run, but I noticed something...odd. I took pictures for you. See if you can figure out what's wrong.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtAnPJq_3e8moYh5PBbzRyyBTuut0mr5SYch8DzF1LGFX3cCc8UdF5q6WqV5IQQQtMKMP_txghF6V2tovZVWsetulHFOL-TsWrm4RMzmBYxG9CxLZBNDB2Sc3lxEVPIsGQ6UBWhY7zmQ/s1600/IMG_1822.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtAnPJq_3e8moYh5PBbzRyyBTuut0mr5SYch8DzF1LGFX3cCc8UdF5q6WqV5IQQQtMKMP_txghF6V2tovZVWsetulHFOL-TsWrm4RMzmBYxG9CxLZBNDB2Sc3lxEVPIsGQ6UBWhY7zmQ/s320/IMG_1822.jpg" /></a> <br />
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This first was a package of 17.6 oz for $3.49. (Unit price = $3.17 per pound).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMkJnVjdL4gA1cuEZdEc1SGKZOvDOyfhP8kYRBGJfhqDptaTAqAMeD-tCtAHDA765TjQfdAdy_woGlhikRgQmpvnNYWyuqtxgy2fyB4Be6yQU0KSiKzURq1IaQGS7Wc_78luODW0IH20Q/s1600/IMG_1823.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMkJnVjdL4gA1cuEZdEc1SGKZOvDOyfhP8kYRBGJfhqDptaTAqAMeD-tCtAHDA765TjQfdAdy_woGlhikRgQmpvnNYWyuqtxgy2fyB4Be6yQU0KSiKzURq1IaQGS7Wc_78luODW0IH20Q/s320/IMG_1823.jpg" /></a><br />
Next, was this one for $2.79, but had only 12 oz in it. (Unit price = $3.72 per pound).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMmAxiJ-QoQffMsPaJ2-xd7CK1byhaQTVrAL8g46KM4dsdwtLGOZzFxrPTrqYpnNuJ8Tz9LZah0bQ5KHJ6JMtCLK0c3mh-0qBpC6OyArTzJEOXkC5OAt7TE5PnHH5cklv0RqTEDx0Ocs/s1600/IMG_1824.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMmAxiJ-QoQffMsPaJ2-xd7CK1byhaQTVrAL8g46KM4dsdwtLGOZzFxrPTrqYpnNuJ8Tz9LZah0bQ5KHJ6JMtCLK0c3mh-0qBpC6OyArTzJEOXkC5OAt7TE5PnHH5cklv0RqTEDx0Ocs/s320/IMG_1824.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Finally, I saw this nice big package of 36 oz for $8.99. (Unit price = $4.00 per pound).<br />
<br />
Did you figure it out yet?<br />
<br />
WHY IS THE BULK PACKAGE MORE EXPENSIVE PER POUND?!<br />
<br />
Yeah. I bought the first one. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-24794687736855166872013-03-29T14:06:00.000-04:002013-04-01T15:18:04.298-04:00'No Poo" Saved My HairI HAVE FINALLY SOLVED THE PROBLEM OF MY FRIZZY HAIR!<br />
<br />
Don't believe me? How about some before-and-after pics?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE7ndYVGL6hWt1Mg6ZoIAz6hpar5Kx3erdRf3UmnxrJy-TUAUdYyRCMy4WJYlYEHqu1g9IIJnjBM0GItxXICJHOk-wgbslKuOwS7wsoZg32bDVs8Q9r8bLE-53zjUwh0OS5h9R78kpIUI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-03-29+at+12.32.00+PM.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE7ndYVGL6hWt1Mg6ZoIAz6hpar5Kx3erdRf3UmnxrJy-TUAUdYyRCMy4WJYlYEHqu1g9IIJnjBM0GItxXICJHOk-wgbslKuOwS7wsoZg32bDVs8Q9r8bLE-53zjUwh0OS5h9R78kpIUI/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-03-29+at+12.32.00+PM.png" /></a><br />
<br />
Seriously.<br />
<br />
So what did I do? Did I find some new shampoo? Start some crazy beauty ritual? Did the <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/04/olive-oil-for-frizz.html">olive oil treatments</a> start really paying off? <br />
<br />
Nope. I stopped using shampoo. <br />
<br />
Seriously.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
See, a while ago (just before Christmas), I was whining piteously to a friend of mine who is a hair and makeup artist. It was my usual litany of hair complaints: too frizzy, too crispy, too dry, etc. I was asking for hair product advice, because though I am Cheapskate Extraordinaire, I had reached my limits of patience.<br />
<br />
She told me to stop shampooing my hair - using conditioner only, and possibly some baking soda. I was skeptical, but desperate times call for desperate measures.<br />
<br />
For three weeks, I used only conditioner, then sent her a picture.<br />
<br />
Turns out, my hair is actually really wavy. That's odd, because it has been pin straight as long as I've had it. Apparently, the hormonal changes that came with motherhood dramatically changed the texture of my hair! <br />
<br />
My friend broke the news gently to me. I need to stop pretending that my hair is something it's not, and accept it for its waviness. <br />
<br />
Here's the science in a nutshell (because I love me some science):<br />
1) Your skin makes sebum oil. This is a good thing as it keeps your skin hydrated, supple, and healthy.<br />
2) This oil also protects your hair. It makes it shiny and smooth, and keeps it from breaking and splitting.<br />
3) Soaps, shampoo included, strip this oil and leave your hair and skin dry.<br />
4) Your body compensates by making MORE<br />
5) This cycle continues until we are making way too much oil, and our hair seems this weird mix of greasy at the roots and crispy at the ends.<br />
<br />
So, yeah. I have used shampoo about 2-3 times since Christmas, despite showering and washing my hair every other day like clockwork.<br />
<br />
Here's what I do instead of the classic shampoo-rinse-repeat-condition thing:<br />
<br />
1) Mix 1-2 T of baking soda into one cup of warm water and use it as shampoo. <br />
2) Fill a spray bottle with half white vinegar and half water. Spray on hair, wait a minute or two, and rinse.<br />
<i>Note: Many say to use apple cider vinegar, but the white vinegar I had on hand has been working fine.</i><br />
<br />
That's it. <br />
<br />
My hair is clean, and after a month or so, had a much better texture. It doesn't make that crackly dry sound if I rub it between my fingers, and I'M NOT HAVING TO BUY SHAMPOO OR CONDITIONER, OR EXPENSIVE ANTI-FRIZZ STUFF.<br />
<br />
<br />
A change that cost me no money and no effort? I couldn't be happier. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaygh-bVEaoCYQcGnaX6Uu2qRxZssl4NJgjV7g_9YjDqeC8ff8-aHV_8w9EZ8Dd7lU6KFYrE7DiuggGg4dGqNzy_iSX4uXLEEOKx3IKGpNH9gfERxhVgyr8qaVeXPc7rjHbAWyzF9QCu8/s1600/IMG_1851.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaygh-bVEaoCYQcGnaX6Uu2qRxZssl4NJgjV7g_9YjDqeC8ff8-aHV_8w9EZ8Dd7lU6KFYrE7DiuggGg4dGqNzy_iSX4uXLEEOKx3IKGpNH9gfERxhVgyr8qaVeXPc7rjHbAWyzF9QCu8/s320/IMG_1851.jpg" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-89102470942861440462013-03-29T08:09:00.000-04:002013-04-02T08:50:16.621-04:00Tiny Raspberry PiesMy husband has been working really hard. He is an English teacher and seems always to be buried in a pile of papers, but still emerges long enough to play with the boys, help me get time for my own work, and take care of tasks I fail at - like shoveling out the driveway after a big snow.<br />
<br />
When I came across a bag of frozen raspberries in our freezer, I had an idea - RASPBERRY PIE! (My husband loves raspberries and pie with equal fervor).<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-46ef0p4BSsmTd_1tLrEPKNIsP5RhEXR9exiR7fbNCInj_z67uUUGcA3iCfimlnUSXp6Ph13vOAzJm-2SxtqAB8a3ce6wkCU_SEku5g3EDZQfhCRhhdw6RqbJ-zPHbSZKTxRkddswv4/s1600/IMG_1801.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-46ef0p4BSsmTd_1tLrEPKNIsP5RhEXR9exiR7fbNCInj_z67uUUGcA3iCfimlnUSXp6Ph13vOAzJm-2SxtqAB8a3ce6wkCU_SEku5g3EDZQfhCRhhdw6RqbJ-zPHbSZKTxRkddswv4/s320/IMG_1801.JPG" /></a><br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Hm. The only drawback is that we have been trying to get healthy. If I make an entire raspberry pie, we are likely to eat an entire raspberry pie. Probably in one sitting.<br />
<br />
This got me to thinking about using my muffin pan to make tiny raspberry pies - just enough for dessert, but not enough to feel guilty about.<br />
<br />
<br />
Let's give it a try. Here's what I came up with:<br />
<br />
Filling:<br />
1 package of frozen raspberries<br />
3 tbsp cornstarch<br />
1/4 cup water<br />
3/4-1 cup sugar<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Butter-Pie-Crust-236477#ixzz2LYuCAHC6">Butter Pie Crust from Epicurious.com</a><br />
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour<br />
1 tablespoon sugar<br />
3/4 teaspoon salt<br />
1 cup (2 sticks) chilled unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes<br />
6 tablespoons (about) ice water<br />
<br />
Mix flour, sugar, salt in a large bowl. Cut in butter and add water (slowly) until a crumbly dough forms. Press the dough into the (greased) cups of your muffin pan to make little pie crusts. Pop the pan into the fridge for two hours to rest. <br />
<i>This should have taken only half of your pie dough. Roll the rest into a ball, then squash it into a disk. Put it in the freezer for future use.</i> <br />
<br />
While your dough is resting, make your filling as follows:<br />
<br />
Filling:<br />
1 package of frozen raspberries<br />
3 tbsp cornstarch<br />
1/4 cup warm water<br />
3/4-1 cup sugar<br />
<br />
Mix the water and corn starch together until smooth. Put it in a small pot over medium heat. Add the raspberries and the sugar. Heat and stir until the berries are fully thawed. Lower the heat and simmer until thickened.<br />
<br />
Preheat your oven to 425. Remove the rested, chilled dough from the fridge. Fill cups about 3/4 of the way with the raspberry sauce. Bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes, then lower your oven temperature to 350 for 15 more minutes. Remove the muffin pan and let cool completely.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLdzrZpkGBqMQUR5lmKRZEtXfQAl5Vlq_TdUbUcywrOvLPuZmFGOR9ZzJ6anh0y9N3RNjAyr4gwfFBtxVXS2WIAnV-3HuSBjnC31Kyd5VK9Is4K_WeUO-esV1KiTtBFLPkdXpXEcFU90/s1600/IMG_1799.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLdzrZpkGBqMQUR5lmKRZEtXfQAl5Vlq_TdUbUcywrOvLPuZmFGOR9ZzJ6anh0y9N3RNjAyr4gwfFBtxVXS2WIAnV-3HuSBjnC31Kyd5VK9Is4K_WeUO-esV1KiTtBFLPkdXpXEcFU90/s320/IMG_1799.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
Wow. These were YUMMY. Also, they were exactly the right size! Since they are pies, they probably would have frozen well, but they never had the chance. So much for eating less per sitting. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.elizabethandco.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k616/meb263/150whitebutton.jpg"/></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-41381036861851998382013-03-17T17:29:00.001-04:002013-04-01T15:19:51.414-04:00 Home Made Floor CleanerThe kitchen floor. It is foul. <br />
<br />
We have a very small, open floor plan on the first floor of our house. It's just a little L, made of the living room and kitchen. The floors are hard wood, but are taking pretty hard use with the kids doing...what kids do. I usually sweep every day, and mop once a week.<br />
<br />
Sadly, I missed doing this last weekend. <br />
<br />
The kitchen floor. It is foul.<br />
<br />
There are jelly smears, mud from shoes, salt from last week's snow, ketchup, scary bits I can't identify, etc, ad nauseum. (Actual nauseum).<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZnOaN15vF_moUNCd5t4ETrOBxcsPfJ-l7GqooYbqK8ywZ3rWlg4eEi30CfNeRezysfCJhx2eIxykFjICmSs7BCHhq-vZ8GUCN4ROp-4WH51bdpXQ4iOiJFLg_BUQ_tg8MeC0hsNA50w/s1600/IMG_1831.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZnOaN15vF_moUNCd5t4ETrOBxcsPfJ-l7GqooYbqK8ywZ3rWlg4eEi30CfNeRezysfCJhx2eIxykFjICmSs7BCHhq-vZ8GUCN4ROp-4WH51bdpXQ4iOiJFLg_BUQ_tg8MeC0hsNA50w/s320/IMG_1831.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qbUo_q8fvnDuV_G9egzW9akuVz9PN7ObTqwDOOWL2qbpR5McUZcCFYDwJZfqCAr91dKvPSe8f0XE7Brw7T3-6_Ek7E64eKyc11vdfjbGx75PRdyYiZIocqmIrrmkbfqReXNXKMS3uqU/s1600/IMG_1835.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qbUo_q8fvnDuV_G9egzW9akuVz9PN7ObTqwDOOWL2qbpR5McUZcCFYDwJZfqCAr91dKvPSe8f0XE7Brw7T3-6_Ek7E64eKyc11vdfjbGx75PRdyYiZIocqmIrrmkbfqReXNXKMS3uqU/s320/IMG_1835.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Sweet God. This is going to be a job. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<br />
Okay. We are blessed to have a full bathroom downstairs, so usually I run the bath about a third of the way, pour in a crap ton of Pinesol, then shoo the kids out while I mop. Since hubby is allergic to pine, I then run a clean tub and use my mop to rinse the floor. Not bad. Gets up a lot of gunk.<br />
<br />
So, I ran some water, went to the laundry room and found that we were TOTALLY OUT OF PINESOL. (Oh, thaaaat's why I didn't mop last weekend! I remember now!). <br />
<br />
Well, I have two sick kids here, so getting out is not an option - at least not a remotely sane option. I'm going to try my old standby: <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/04/spray-cleaner.html">SPRAY CLEANER.</a><br />
<br />
I sprayed a layer over the worst area of my floor, walked away for a few minutes, then attacked it with a dampened sponge mop. CAME UP LIKE A DREAM. (Seriously?! Why have I been buying Pinesol?)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPK9REb6PcAD1y0NkV5QKR2qDUHzXA9fjyL-zZL3xEvviP7MXkBAxvtYJoKr7PySLe0gxCV3yma5X_P6cMiPSD_2ZRQQBUaBgWScWjjYmLwoXUDA8kED3JSGZZAPYAwtc-qOCWUXmZELQ/s1600/IMG_1840.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPK9REb6PcAD1y0NkV5QKR2qDUHzXA9fjyL-zZL3xEvviP7MXkBAxvtYJoKr7PySLe0gxCV3yma5X_P6cMiPSD_2ZRQQBUaBgWScWjjYmLwoXUDA8kED3JSGZZAPYAwtc-qOCWUXmZELQ/s320/IMG_1840.JPG" /></a><br />
Oooo. Sparkly. (I don't remember exactly where the before pics were taken, but the whole floor pretty much looks like this now. Use your imagination.)<br />
<br />
Anyway, I did a few more sections like that until I got tired of spraying the solution on. Then I just opened the bottle and splashed some around. This upset the toddler (who cannot stand messes unless he's making them), but did a really good job.<br />
<br />
After it dried, there was a little bit of a film that I wasn't prepared for (probably because the sponge on my sponge mop has seen better days and needs replacing). I decided to break out the steam mop.<br />
<br />
As an aside: I've had this steam mop for a long time, but rarely use it as it is a pain in the...hiney. It's a Shark, and I've never had much luck with their products working like they do in commercials. Well, any port in a storm.<br />
<br />
Here's the pad before:<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JsLrQuVoLCPVfNd4oAbipS7vmZdTyz54r2Lkv1G_QF333qseE8IPgLYSQ_bMnEuV3XO-Mu6bPw9PNJ_yT6-8a2c_TkllwyHE_4QJXixQrqOfpoSHSnTiZBAdwyy7gNHkRin40XFYFlk/s1600/IMG_1839.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JsLrQuVoLCPVfNd4oAbipS7vmZdTyz54r2Lkv1G_QF333qseE8IPgLYSQ_bMnEuV3XO-Mu6bPw9PNJ_yT6-8a2c_TkllwyHE_4QJXixQrqOfpoSHSnTiZBAdwyy7gNHkRin40XFYFlk/s320/IMG_1839.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
And after:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggg5nMVnK_tqao6UfuKdZj8ynzBdd5d62dmuofDEW05HdSrrUxLttP5Yak2_FNU84i8nPH28y3ko8yYcSiwlWwfZ3kQ4K9OsTW4Vf12ZGTYfxH4LyJuHgbxAJW3z-Kj02-zeZDmJmbcR8/s1600/IMG_1842.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggg5nMVnK_tqao6UfuKdZj8ynzBdd5d62dmuofDEW05HdSrrUxLttP5Yak2_FNU84i8nPH28y3ko8yYcSiwlWwfZ3kQ4K9OsTW4Vf12ZGTYfxH4LyJuHgbxAJW3z-Kj02-zeZDmJmbcR8/s320/IMG_1842.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
Ew. Maybe I should break this thing out more often. And what's fascinating is that the steam mop took up lines that I previously thought were part of the grain of the wood. This leads me to ask, WHAT THE HECK WAS ON MY FLOOR, AND HOW LONG WAS IT LIVING THERE?!<br />
<br />
But I digress. Here's my nice, sparkly floor now.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEity3LatMcT20eeHywAwCQXsY81ugDZEsIbMNQ9EQIy15aWLSD5Fi1x1EIPQHGcmWFzk0grpZKmNcPZFVTif3V6TVrCNlRjaOnMHZSH8ugq-yK-eJbpTkS269geABOUU4jdVURxiB0kSPM/s1600/IMG_1841.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEity3LatMcT20eeHywAwCQXsY81ugDZEsIbMNQ9EQIy15aWLSD5Fi1x1EIPQHGcmWFzk0grpZKmNcPZFVTif3V6TVrCNlRjaOnMHZSH8ugq-yK-eJbpTkS269geABOUU4jdVURxiB0kSPM/s320/IMG_1841.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
WHAT? This is beautiful! And I don't have to buy anything, and there's no waste! (The Shark pads are re-usable). <br />
<br />
Done. I think I found a new mopping routine: spot clean the heavier stuff with <a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2012/04/spray-cleaner.html">spray cleaner</a>, then follow up with the steam mop. <br />
<br />
This took about the same amount of time that my previous routine did (since it had to dry TWICE before), and I didn't have to shoo the kids out as everything I used was safe for them to come into contact with.<br />
<br />
I'm sold.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-11309303978529944302013-03-04T00:00:00.000-05:002013-04-01T15:20:08.748-04:00Meal Stretcher Monday: Veggie BurgersIf you have been reading here so far, it's not a surprise that I'm a vegetarian. When it comes to burgers-and-fries night on our meal schedule, that leaves me with store-bought veggie burgers. These packages are usually between $3 and $4 for four patties. <br />
<br />
Really? A buck or so EACH? I bet I can do better.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCFi1cMA50AGINalN0tryIQ9qszWJ1J7cx2YObJvYlDldaKPWHTCTIidAQ_A7uDhqR4rLnDtUD45SFkEUHtG50Ph-mh8U-CxqhPkjDohJmktEXpRl3si3ZHYnkQpYa0cOwnegHrBN9kQ/s1600/IMG_1794.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCFi1cMA50AGINalN0tryIQ9qszWJ1J7cx2YObJvYlDldaKPWHTCTIidAQ_A7uDhqR4rLnDtUD45SFkEUHtG50Ph-mh8U-CxqhPkjDohJmktEXpRl3si3ZHYnkQpYa0cOwnegHrBN9kQ/s320/IMG_1794.JPG" /></a><br />
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I searched around and found quite a few recipes - most with ingredients I don't have in the house. The closest recipe to what I had on hand was <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/recipes/make-your-own-veggie-burgers">this one from Runner's World.</a> I had to make a few changes, but let's run with it. <br />
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(See what I did there? <i>Run</i> with it?)<br />
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Ingredients: (makes 8 patties - a double batch!)<br />
3 cups of black beans (or two cans. I make mine from dried beans then freeze.)<br />
<a href="http://cheapwise.blogspot.com/2013/02/meal-stretcher-monday-millet.html">1 cup cooked millet (the original calls for quinoa, but that stuff's pricey)</a><br />
1 teaspoon cumin<br />
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper<br />
1 teaspoon paprika<br />
1 teaspoon salt (the original calls for sea salt, but let's not get fancy, shall we?)<br />
2 tablespoons grated cheese (the original calls for nutritional yeast, but I've never owned that before)<br />
1 teaspoon dijon mustard<br />
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil<br />
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Mix all of the ingredients in a large bowl, then have at them with a potato masher! This is oddly therapeutic!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwGKIr5FGFcmCjXjWTwR1Y9ekhH_eoyU4Y9ZdD8HzQBQa6qdf0IYe0kTc4494NqlHVLoKFRKkP2HpwEEa0nK8QI8-XQF6gqFvVysC_Dyo_rM-51MQFtSuCQn7CuvOtpMk0ecOaKasJKhA/s1600/IMG_1790.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwGKIr5FGFcmCjXjWTwR1Y9ekhH_eoyU4Y9ZdD8HzQBQa6qdf0IYe0kTc4494NqlHVLoKFRKkP2HpwEEa0nK8QI8-XQF6gqFvVysC_Dyo_rM-51MQFtSuCQn7CuvOtpMk0ecOaKasJKhA/s320/IMG_1790.JPG" /></a><br />
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Just keep mashing until they make a paste.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMuSWWwamgLPYZFLZes0kvo1hKGUxJ-H_9-LoPbE3CsEKhWHotY23hxLXwKMd9rLlGgo7sVKFOIS_pt1aJTq0UDdVd-VTDjYsE970kXUpOq_nf616bqFeR4bdfhw5J2CsuPmaPKnEvXPc/s1600/IMG_1791.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMuSWWwamgLPYZFLZes0kvo1hKGUxJ-H_9-LoPbE3CsEKhWHotY23hxLXwKMd9rLlGgo7sVKFOIS_pt1aJTq0UDdVd-VTDjYsE970kXUpOq_nf616bqFeR4bdfhw5J2CsuPmaPKnEvXPc/s320/IMG_1791.JPG" /></a><br />
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Mold them by hand into 8 patties. <i>(At this point you might have to take a few minutes and fight off small children who believe that you are making big chocolate chip cookies. Stay strong, and pour yourself a glass of wine.)</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmmvhtXXhTI-uJVRRGEy3-n_pIc-kc3A8IN0trUhSfLMcoXSVSoOfz3XO29Zyo5sV80p34d_KLobFPURJ5VvDBEyilidVcYImgjugXgQD4YUXfW0tKiqgUORFDeP1iWu-InXnEdcuxG14/s1600/IMG_1792.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmmvhtXXhTI-uJVRRGEy3-n_pIc-kc3A8IN0trUhSfLMcoXSVSoOfz3XO29Zyo5sV80p34d_KLobFPURJ5VvDBEyilidVcYImgjugXgQD4YUXfW0tKiqgUORFDeP1iWu-InXnEdcuxG14/s320/IMG_1792.JPG" /></a><br />
Cook the patties on medium-high heat in a dry pan (the original calls for frying them with some oil, but I'm trying to keep this as healthy as possible. It only takes about a minute or two on each side, and you're good to go.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4r89ssCMgereuqL1ZYmd6ieGZOsZerK-elqcFJuBXWL9dVVJPogYyDTSWOypB-LR2iNMCZWJG2p_FJGYyLyEN7vE-8uA6MTWZK5sklegosYd9zd96xuSnERwKOTwQYF90CoXzRAsOH4/s1600/IMG_1793.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4r89ssCMgereuqL1ZYmd6ieGZOsZerK-elqcFJuBXWL9dVVJPogYyDTSWOypB-LR2iNMCZWJG2p_FJGYyLyEN7vE-8uA6MTWZK5sklegosYd9zd96xuSnERwKOTwQYF90CoXzRAsOH4/s320/IMG_1793.JPG" /></a><br />
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<i>A quick note: These came out pretty crumbly for me after I cooked them. I think it's because I used beans that I had bought dried instead of canned. In the future I'll add an egg (or egg replacer) to the batch. Still delicious, though.</i><br />
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Serve just as you would a burger!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1466287364396817679.post-75933392744667928592013-02-25T04:30:00.000-05:002013-04-01T15:20:30.500-04:00Meal Stretcher Monday: MilletI keep seeing recipes for quinoa. The problem (other than that it took me weeks to pronounce it correctly) is that the only quinoa (KEEN-wa) that I could find around here was $9 for one pound.<br />
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Hm... There's this millet stuff right by there that cost $3 for TWO pounds. I wonder what that is.<br />
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Turns out (after a little internet research) that millet is actually often used as a substitute for quinoa! Well, what do you know!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7b2roZTCxtQCobG9NDALYj0P0tfZhpNA7qc6DZvgzURZ18B8wV2xT3QAlodak-FcUDqMgA0gZHuF8Vzc6VV21ATTXxcrPFX1WjK4VGJnEUoJKi0uQTOxHltqbEvLOuySdXk_JjkH_MfU/s1600/IMG_1786.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7b2roZTCxtQCobG9NDALYj0P0tfZhpNA7qc6DZvgzURZ18B8wV2xT3QAlodak-FcUDqMgA0gZHuF8Vzc6VV21ATTXxcrPFX1WjK4VGJnEUoJKi0uQTOxHltqbEvLOuySdXk_JjkH_MfU/s320/IMG_1786.JPG" /></a><br />
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Millet is a gluten-free cereal grain that grows well in the poorer soils in more arid regions, like India and Africa. It's protein content is similar to wheat, and it's pretty high in B vitamins, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and zinc. Millet has a light, nutty flavor, and can be prepared as a porridge (like oatmeal is), cooked as a side dish similar to couscous, or aded to breads and muffins for a little crunchy texture, or even to meatloaf and burgers as a stretcher.<br />
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How to Cook Millet:<br />
If you want a stronger flavor, start with step one. If you want a lighter flavor, rinse your grains and go to step 2.<br />
1) Toast your millet: Heat up a DRY pot over medium heat. Add one cup of millet and stir constantly. You'll notice a nice nutty aroma, and your grains will start to dance around and pop! <br />
2) Gently add 2 cups of boiling water or broth to your 1 cup of millet. <br />
3) Reduce heat and cover, letting it simmer until the water is absorbed (20-25 minutes). <br />
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This makes a fluffy-textured millet. For something more porridge-like, use 3 cups of liquid in step 2 instead.<br />
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Voila! You now have millet to eat, or cook with as you please. (I used mine in veggie burgers, and had some with a little grated cheese as a side dish). It's very inexpensive, healthy, and tasty.<br />
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Go stretch those grocery dollars!<br />
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<a href="http://www.elizabethandco.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k616/meb263/150whitebutton.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.thethriftyhome.com/"><img alt="
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This week: Baked Butternut Squash Fries<br />
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The recipe for this is actually really simple:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjaUbxHhNC2Ajn8eyEC0iV6xhiEflhWOtCxpzPCCAIsGeLlIsvmixQ8mtsedO7NwbXK2HoHuOjTTfYkM1I0qQL_o-pygmagCVjLdjf1WL58Uu3R6c-xS8FRRbXpOc1Ed8xHqFPPZjCpc/s1600/IMG_1762.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjaUbxHhNC2Ajn8eyEC0iV6xhiEflhWOtCxpzPCCAIsGeLlIsvmixQ8mtsedO7NwbXK2HoHuOjTTfYkM1I0qQL_o-pygmagCVjLdjf1WL58Uu3R6c-xS8FRRbXpOc1Ed8xHqFPPZjCpc/s320/IMG_1762.JPG" /></a><br />
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1) Get a butternut squash (I have one from a coworker's garden that I have been saving for just such an occasion).<br />
2) Slice it into sticks.<br />
3) Season with salt and pepper to taste<br />
4) Bake at 425 for about 45 minutes on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnCvNpFGJ98LIpiwZTiMB_zqrFLM0c1Dhr4tuRqQyQHADCPyNzlp4z6dTaf0mRSX6xcQLH7gICxMUJtdYy116mr3VF0RKdlFcg2FkgvTA_1deH3iI6GgjgEZDxtw0KFpOiuiE3u4S5vMU/s1600/IMG_1764.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnCvNpFGJ98LIpiwZTiMB_zqrFLM0c1Dhr4tuRqQyQHADCPyNzlp4z6dTaf0mRSX6xcQLH7gICxMUJtdYy116mr3VF0RKdlFcg2FkgvTA_1deH3iI6GgjgEZDxtw0KFpOiuiE3u4S5vMU/s320/IMG_1764.JPG" /></a><br />
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A few recipes talk about coating them with oil, or greasing a cookie sheet instead of using parchment paper. I chose to do it this way because I'm trying to lose a little weight (because I'm too cheap to buy a new pants). This way made two generous servings, which were about 2 Weight Watchers points each (if you're counting).<br />
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My husband, who is not prone to devouring vegetables, loved these.<br />
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