Friday, October 31, 2008

Party recipes for Young and Old!!



Trevor, Julissa, Zach



Zach, Bailee

I love doing party foods, like this weekend we had a birthday party. I start looking for easy recipes for a crowd, that anyone from kids to adults will like. Here is a quick, easy recipe for all.


Super Easy Popcorn Balls

Ingredients
1/4 C. (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for buttering hands
1 ten oz. bag miniature marshmallows
1/4 C. light-brown sugar, firmly packed
3 qt. popped popcorn
1 C. M&Ms (optional)
Directions
Melt butter in a large heavy pot over low heat. Add marshmallows and brown sugar, and stir until melted. Remove from heat. Pour popcorn and M&Ms into pot; toss well. With buttered hands, shape into 2 1/2-inch balls. Set on parchment-lined baking sheet to dry slightly.Yield: about 12
ANYONE HAVE A PROJECT, RECIPES OR JUST WANT TO SHARE OR JUST A SHOUT OUT TO US?????!! Send pics of kids carving pumpkins, in their costumes, anything family oriented to the email below, or leave a comment!!!Please pass on this blog to your friends and family!! Let them know about our blog and Burlap Babes Soap!!!REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING .TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/
October 31, 2008

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Potpouri!!







Our soaps are so good for your skin!!! Some people use them to wash their hair. It leaves it so soft! It makes dry skin soft and nice smelling. There are so many scents to choose from, there is one (or two, or more!!) just for you!! Remember, they are great gifts for anyone and everyone!!
When you carve your pumpkins, save the Seeds!! Here is a recipe for those seeds you usually throw away!!
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients
1 qt. water
2 Tbs. salt
2 C. pumpkin seeds
1 Tbs. vegetable oil or melted, unsalted butter
Directions
Preheat oven to 250°F. Pick through seeds and remove any cut seeds. Remove as much of the stringy fibers as possible. Bring the water and salt to a boil. Add the seeds and boil for 10 minutes. Drain, spread on kitchen towel or paper towel and pat dry. Place the seeds in a bowl and toss with oil or melted butter. Spread evenly on a large cookie sheet or roasting pan. Place pan in a preheated oven and roast the seeds for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir about every 10 minutes, until crisp and golden brown. Cool the seeds, then shell and eat or pack in air-tight containers or zip closure bags and refrigerate until ready to eat.
When we go out to eat, I come home and look up recipes. I have found sites with copy cat recipes for about any kind of food from any restaurant you can think of. Here is one from Olive Garden!!
Olive Garden Chicken Marsala Copy Cat Recipe
Ingredients:
4 Chicken half-breasts -- pound 1/4" thick -- skinned & Deboned
1/4 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon Salt
pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon Oregano
4 tablespoons Oil
4 tablespoons Butter/margarine
1 cup Fresh mushroons -- sliced
1/2 cup Marsala wine
Directions:
Combine flour, salt, pepper and oregano and blend well. Heat the oil and butter in a skillet until bubbling lightly. Dredge the chicken in the flour and shake off the excess. Cook the chicken on medium heat for about 2 minutes on the first side, until lightly brown. As you turn the breasts to the second side to cook, add the mushrooms around the chicken pieces. Cook about 2 more minutes, until lightly browned on the second side. Stir the mushrooms. When the second side is lightly browned, add the wine around the pieces, cover the pan and simmer for about 10 minutes.

ANYONE HAVE A PROJECT, RECIPES OR JUST WANT TO SHARE OR JUST A SHOUT OUT TO US?????!!
Send pics of kids carving pumpkins, in their costumes, anything family oriented to the email below, or leave a comment!!!
Please pass on this blog to your friends and family!! Let them know about our blog and Burlap Babes Soap!!!

REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING .TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/


October 30, 2008


Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Picking Pumpkins and Apples!!






Here are some of the family in New York!! Actually, I believe they were picking apples and pumpkins in New Jersey!! Bonnie, Amanda (11) and Ryan (8) are in the top left, Ryan is picking apples in the top right, and Amanda is picking out her pumpkin in the bottom picture.
If you're looking for a cool treat for Halloween, here is a really good recipe. It's easy, quick and everyone will love it!


PUPPY CHOW


3/4 cup peanut butter
1 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup butter
8 cups Crispix cereal
2 cups powdered sugar
Melt the peanut butter, chocolate chips, and butter together. Pour over the cereal in a large kettle or bowl and stir well. Pour the powdered sugar into a large brown paper bag and add the cereal. Fold the bag to seal and shake well to coat evenly.

Please pass on this blog to your friends and family!! Let them know about our blog and Burlap Babes Soap!!!REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING .TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL.COM
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
http://burlapbabessoap.com/store/
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/



October 29, 2008

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Preparing for Halloween at the Lambs!!






Here are the kiddies at the Lamb household!! Bryant and Zach are cheesin for the camera!! The girls and Zach and Bryant are cutting on the pumpkins, and Zach is drying out the seeds to eat!! Yum Yum!!! They have a nice row of cute pumpkins!!
Wow, makes me want to bake pumpkin rolls!!
But, I guess pumpkin pie sounds just as good!! Here is one of the easiest recipes I've ever found for Pumpkin Pie!!!
Pumpkin Pie

Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 1 hr., 15 mins
2 eggs
1 can (16 ounce) can of pumpkin puree,
1 can (14 ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 pie shell
Cooking Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425 F
Combine eggs, pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk and pumpkin pie spice and mix well.
Pour the mixture into a pie shell.
Bake for 15 minuets at 425 degrees
Then reduce the heat to 350 degrees. And bake for 35-40 minuets longer.

ANYONE HAVE A PROJECT, RECIPES OR JUST WANT TO SHARE OR JUST A SHOUT OUT TO US?????!! Send pics of kids carving pumpkins, in their costumes, anything family oriented to the email below, or leave a comment!!!Please pass on this blog to your friends and family!! Let them know about our blog and Burlap Babes Soap!!!REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING .TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL.COM
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
http://burlapbabessoap.com/store/
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/
October 28, 2008 Tuesday










Sunday, October 26, 2008

OWEN JAMES







This is our little Owen! He's Mitch's youngest. Summer is over, but he had a great time this summer. He loves water, jumping on the trampoline, and just being outside. All the children are gearing for the colder weather now.
Hopefully, not for snow quite this soon!!!
ANYONE HAVE A PROJECT, RECIPES OR JUST WANT TO SHARE OR JUST A SHOUT OUT TO US?????!! Send pics of kids carving pumpkins, in their costumes, anything family oriented to the email below, or leave a comment!!!

Please pass on this blog to your friends and family!! Let them know about our blog and Burlap Babes Soap!!!
REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING .TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/
OCTOBER 27, 2008 MONDAY

Another School Project!!









The plaster was poured into an half gallon milk carton, face etched into plaster, and carved deeper into the plaster, and then made "old" with wet tea bags!!

Ok, got a school project, that means, Go to Nana's and Grampa's!! This was a great project. Had to do a carving from Latin America, called Olmec Sculpture. Ok, whatever that is!! Above are the process we took making this sculpture. Poured plaster of paris three time. Three tries later, we, oh, I mean Ryssa had her sculpture :)!!!! We did have a good time though!

Please pass on this blog to your friends and family!! Let them know about our blog and Burlap Babes Soap!!!
REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING .TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL.COM
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
http://burlapbabessoap.com/store/
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/

****Here are 2 copy cat recipes, try them!! Hope you like them!*****
--Hostess Cupcakes--
CAKES:
1/2 c Plus 2 tbsp Flour
2 1/2 tb Cocoa powder
3/4 ts Baking soda
1/4 ts Salt
1/2 c Sugar
1/2 c Water
3 tb Vegetable oil
1 1/2 ts Distilled white vinegar
1 ts Vanilla extract
FILLING:
1 c Heavy whipping cream
6 oz Finely chopped white chocolate
GLAZE:
3 oz Finely chopped bittersweet chocolate
3 tb Boiling water
ICING:
1 tb Egg white, at room temperature
1 pinch cream of tartar
1/2 c Plus 2 to 3 tbsp confectioner's sugar
Make the cupcakes:1. Position a rack in the center and preheat oven to 325F. Lightlybutter twenty-four 1-3/4" x 3/4" (1-oz) muffin of biscuit cups.2. Into a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa, baking soda,and salt. Mix in the sugar. Make a well in the center. Whisk in thewater, oil, vinegar, and vanilla. Blend until smooth. (The batterwill be very thin.)3. Spoon the batter into the prepared cups. Bake until a cake testerinserted into the center of one of the cupcakes comes out clean,about 12 to 14 minutes. Cool the cupcakes in the pans on a wire rackfor 5 minutes. Remove the cupcakes from the pans and finish coolingon the rack.Make the filling:4. In a heavy medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the creamto a boil. Add the white chocolate and remove from heat. let themixture stand briefly; stir until smooth. Transfer to a metal bowland refrigerate until chilled thoroughly, stirring occasionally. (Tospeed the process, set the metal bowl over a larger bowl of icewater; stir the chocolate mixture until cool.) With an electricmixer, beat the white chocolate mixture just until fluffy, about 1minute.5. Transfer the filling to a pastry bag fitted with a 3/8-inch plaintip. Insert the pastry tip 1/4-inch into the bottom of each cupcakeand squeeze a little filling into each one.Make the glaze:6. Place the chocolate in a small bowl. Whisk in the boiling water andblend until smooth. One at a time, dip the top of each cupcake intothe warm glaze. Turn the glazed cupcakes right side up and set themon a wire rack on top of a baking sheet. Refrigerate the cupcakes for5 minutes to set the glaze.Make the icing:7. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy. Stir in thecream of tartar. Gradually mix in enough of the confectioner's sugarto make a fairly stiff and smooth icing. Fill a small paper cone withthe icing and cut a 1/16-inch opening at the tip. Remove the cupcakesfrom the refrigerator. Pipe a design (a squiggle, spiral, etc.) onthe top of each cupcake. Let the design harden and then cover andrefrigerate the cupcakes. Serve at room temperature.The cupcakes can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance, orfrozen up to 2 weeks.Makes 22 to 24 miniature cupcakes.

--Hostess Twinkies--

CAKE
2 Cup Flour
1-1/2 Cup Sugar
1 Tablespoon Baking Powder
1/2 Teaspoon Salt
1/2 Cup Vegetable Oil
3/4 Cup Cold Water
2 Teaspoon Vanilla
7 Egg Yolks
7 Egg Whites
1/2 Teaspoon Cream of tartar

FILLING
6 Tablespoon Flour (rounded)
1-1/2 Cup Butter & Crisco mixture
1-1/2 Cup Sugar
1 Cup Cold Milk (scant)
2 Teaspoon Vanilla
Cake:In a large bowl, mix the first 4 ingredients. Make a well and add the next 4ingredients. Beat until smooth with a spoon and set aside. Beat the eggwhites with the cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Pour over egg yolkbatter and fold in until well beaten. Pour in an ungreased 10x14 pan. Bake45-50 minutes in a 350oF preheated oven. Cool in pan. Invert in pan withcups under each corner. Cool completely and run a knife around the edge.Remove and cut in half.Filling:Combine the first 3 ingredients and beat on high for 5 minutes, graduallyadding the milk and vanilla. Beat 5 more minutes on high. Spread between 2layers. Cut to size (3x1 inch) and wrap separately.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

HAPPY Birthday MITCH!!!


Today is Mitch, "Baby's" birthday :)!!! He's 29!! Wow, now we are twins!! That's because I've been 29 for a few now, and my youngest finally caught up with me.
Again, the Lord has been good to all of us. Even when we think we can't possibly get thru a dark time, HE is always there with us!! I want to thank him for everyone of our kids and grandkids!!

Friday, October 24, 2008

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Pauly!!!!



Happy Birthday to Paul!!! He's 58 years young today!! He was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, after we married, we moved to my birth place, Indiana. Again, Happy Birthday PAUL!!! He's my biggest baby and honey!
We had a nice party with 100 of the grandkids!! LOL Not really, just seemed like it. Everyone had a great time, although a few of them weren't able to make it. Still had a house full!!
Want to take this time to thank the Lord for all he's given us all!

October 24, 2008

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Bath Bombs!!

Above is a picture of some of the products we make that lots of you have never seen. We have the scented bath bombs, that will make a wonderful gift for all you ladies!! Next are our filled Soat Koats!! We've taken 3 ounces of soap chips and filled the cute Kim's Soap Koats. Put these in a cute little basket and they will make a unique gift for co-workers, etc.
Here is a fudge recipe that's a little different from the rest. Give it a try!!!

*~*THREE CHOCOLATE FUDGE*~*
3-1/3 c sugar1 c butter or margarine
1 c packed dark brown sugar
1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
32 large marshmallows, halved
2 c (12 oz) semisweet chocolate chips
2 milk chocolate candy bars (7 ounces each), broken
2 squares (1 ounce each) semisweet baking chocolate, chopped
1 t vanilla extract
2 c chopped pecans
In a large saucepan, combine first four ingredients. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar is desolved. Bring to a rapid boil; boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat; stir in marshmallows until melted. Stir in chocolate chips until melted. Add chocolate bars and baking chocolate; stir until melted. Fold in vanilla and pecans; mix well. Pour into a greased 15-in x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan. Chill until firm. Cut into squares. Makes: 5 1/2 pounds
REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING .TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Alex Painting Lessons!!

Alex, 8 years old, and Madison, age 5, children of our son Mitch.


When the grandkids come over, they like to help with the "projects". Here Alex is painting the rocks that we paint into animals. He's doing the base coats and doing a great job. Madison is watching him. Everytime he comes over, he asks to do a project. He's getting very good at painting!!!
Here's a couple of "copy cat" recipes!

--Clausen Kosher Dill Pickles--

2 dill flowers2 garlic cloves, peeled & halved

1 1/4 lbs. (8-10) pickling cucumbers

6 long sprigs fresh dill

1 tbsp coarse kosher salt

Put dill flower and garlic in bottom of mason jar;add the cukes, put sprigs of dill in center ofcukes, add salt, fill jar with half boiled waterthat is now cool, and half vinegar to within 1/8th of top.Put on seal and ring, shake to dissolve salt,set upside down on counter away from sunlightand heat. Let sit 4-5 days flipping the jareither upright or upside down each day.Let sit upright 2 more days then refrigerate. Lasts about 6 months.

--Coney Island Dogs--

1 pound Ground Beef

1 Small Onion,Chopped

2 Tbls. Prepared Yellow Mustard

2 Tbls. Vinegar

2 Tbls. Sugar

1 Tbls. Water

1 tsp. Worcestershire Sauce

1/4 tsp. Celery Seed

1/4 tsp. Tabasco Sauce

1/4 cup Catsup, Approximate (Use enough to keep mixture loose)

In salted skillet, over medium heat, brown ground beef with onion,breaking up meat with fork to crumble fine. Drain off fat.Add mustard, vinegar, sugar, water, Worcestershire sauce, celery seed,and Tabasco sauce. Mix well. Add enough catsup to keep mixture loose.Reduce heat to low, and simmer (uncovered), for 35 to 40 minutes. Makesenough sauce for six to eight medium weiners.

REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!!

BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING : TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:

BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL.COM

You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.

http://burlapbabessoap.com/store/

Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/

Monday, October 20, 2008

Ah, Chamomile!!

WE add chamomile to several of our soaps!
It's a relaxing, soothing plant. Here are a couple of the soaps we make. Each has it's own distinct properties.

SASSY CITRUS=soothing chamomile with hints of orange and invigorating lemon

SLEEPY TIME SOOTHER=soothing chamomile, spearmint, rose petals hints of orange and lemon

Following are a few facts about chamomile:
Two types of chamomile are used for health conditions: German chamomile and Roman chamomile. While the two kinds are thought to have similar effects on the body, the German variety is more commonly used in the United.
What It Is Used For:
Chamomile has been widely used in children and adults for thousands of years for a variety of health conditions.
The herb is often used for sleeplessness; anxiety; and gastrointestinal conditions such as upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea.
It is used topically for skin conditions and for mouth ulcers resulting from cancer treatment.

The flowering tops of the chamomile plant are used to make teas, liquid extracts, capsules, or tablets. The herb can also be applied to the skin as a cream or an ointment, or used as a mouth rinse.

The finest chamomile flowers in the world come from the Nile River Valley of Egypt. Considered a remedy for all ills by the ancient Egyptians, this golden herb remains a modern favorite to promote calm and relieve anxiety. When steeped, these fragrant blossoms smell of freshly cut apples and produce a rich, golden cup with superior flavor. This caffeine free herbal infusion is delicious served with honey.

Herbal Use and Medicinal Properties

Chamomile is one of the most widely used flowers for herbal tea. Chamomile Tea is so popular, it is found in most grocery stores in the tea aisle. It is used as a mild sedative, and is good for insomnia as well as many other nervous conditions. It is nervine and sedative especially suited to teething children and those who have been in a highly emotional state over a long period of time. Except for the small risk of allergy, Chamomile is also one of the safest herbs to use.
Chamomile flowers are used in alternative medicine as an anodyne, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, nervine, stomachic, tonic, vasodilatory. The anti-inflammatory properties make it good for rheumatism, arthritis, and other painful swellings. Additional uses in herbal medicine include an antispasmodic for intestinal and menstrual cramps, relieving gas pains, and a very mild but efficient laxative. Milder tea in large doses is given throughout the day for fevers, sore throats, the aches and pains due to colds, flu, and allergies.
External Use
An infusion of Chamomile flowers is used as a hair shampoo, especially for fair hair. The flowers are sometimes added to cosmetics as an anti-allergenic agent or made into a salve for use on hemorrhoids and wounds. The dried herb is made into potpourri and herb pillows, and is burned for aromatherapy. Applied externally as a wash or compress for skin inflammations, sunburn, burns, and added to bath for relaxing tired, achy muscles and feet, and softening the skin.
Other Uses
Chamomile tea is used as a liquid feed and plant tonic, effective against a number of plant diseases. An essential oil from the whole plant is used as a flavoring and in making perfume. The dried flowers are used as an insect repellent.
The chief constituent of Chamaemelum have been identified as esters of angelic and tiglic, together with amyl and isobutyl alcohol's. It also contains anthemol and a hydrocarbon anthemene. The flowers contain various volatile oils including proazulenes. Upon steam distillation these proazulenes produce chamazulene, this is remarkably anti-allergenic and is useful in the treatment of asthma and hay fever.
.
History and Folklore
It is said that the Egyptians dedicated Chamomile to their sun god and valued it over all other herbs for its healing qualities. Due to its sedative and relaxing properties Chamomile was an ingredient in some love potions in the middle ages.
Chamomile Herb Recipe Ideas
The flowers are edible and quite tasty in salads or made into a refreshing cold or warm beverage.
Relaxing tea: To 1 cup boiling water add 2 tsp. dried flowers. Steep covered for 10 min.
For Bath: Use ½ to 1 cup fresh or dried herb tied in linen bag. Place in tub with hot water let soak for 10 min. then add cold water to the temp. you like. Do not add soap to bath, as it will coat your skin and not allow the Chamomile to penetrate.
Also for colds or when you feel really bad, try the tea while you’re soaking in the bath.

REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING .
TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL.COM
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
http://burlapbabessoap.com/store/
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/

Saturday, October 18, 2008

SHOP EARLY!!









Like I've said before, our soaps are a great gift!! You can get your mother-in-law, mother, father, kids (young and old), co-workers, just about anyone, a nice unique gift!! It being GOAT MILK Soap is uinique in itself!!!! So creamy and sweet! They will simply love it!!!! If you buy now, you can get in on the Anniversary Special: 3/ $10 AND if you buy 6 bars, shipping is free! Now is the time to get your soaps and arrange them in baskets, soap dishes, tins with finger tip towels, loofahs, wash clothes, brushes, just about anything you can think of. You can make an unique and personalized gift for anyone! Throw in a Kim's Soap Koat or two of any color for them also!!




There is a scent for any man, woman or child on your gift list.

Here are some interesting facts:

Natural air purifiers

Plants not only reduce stress, but also improve your mental well-being, and rid the air of the organic chemicals and toxins that cause asthma and other ailments.Here are a few that purify your home and office.Snake plant since it’s practically indestructible; the plant will remove toxins in rooms where no other plants will grow like areas with no windows. Keep one in your bathroom, work cubicle or any area that have limited sunlight.Rubber plant it is the bet at removing indoor chemicals, such as formaldehyde (found in particleboard furniture and upholstery), benzene and ammonia. The rubber plant is also a great humidifier. Keep this plant anywhere you need a pretty plant that boost moisture into the air.Christmas cactus because this plant gives off oxygen at night (most plants produce oxygen during the day), it is perfect for bedrooms, family rooms or any area that gets a lot of evening action.
Here is a great recipe for those of us who love Greek Foods:

Chicken Souvlaki

4 pieces flat bread or pitas

2 tomatoes, cut into wedges

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

3/4 cup crumbled Feta

1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted

1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into pieces

1/2 cup plain yogurt 1 small cucumber, diced

1 1/2 tablespoons minced fresh dill
Heat oven to 200° F. Wrap the bread in foil and place in oven.In a medium bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion, Feta, and olives.In a large bowl, combine the oregano, thyme, pepper, 1 1/2 teaspoons of the vinegar, and the lemon juice. Slowly add 4 tablespoons of the oil in a steady stream, whisking constantly until incorporated. Pour 2 1/2 tablespoons of the vinaigrette over the tomato mixture, toss, and set aside. Add the chicken to the remaining vinaigrette, toss, and set aside.Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer the chicken but not the liquid to the skillet and heat, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the yogurt, cucumber, dill, and the remaining vinegar. Spread the bread with some of the yogurt sauce and top with the chicken. Add the tomato salad and fold.

Tip: Greek souvlaki traditionally calls for lamb, but you can also make it with chicken breasts, turkey cutlets, or shrimp.Yield: Makes 4 servings

REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING : TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:

BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL.COM

You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.

http://burlapbabessoap.com/store/

Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/

October 18, 2008 Saturday

Friday, October 17, 2008

Family, Far and Away!!



Here's some more of our little cuties! Olivia, who's birthday is a week after mine in March, is almost 7 months old. Next is big brother Billy! He's almost 3, and such a big boy on his scooter!!
We don't see some of our babies near as much as we'd like, since they live 750 miles away. Never the less, they are still near and dear to us!
Billy's picture was in an earlier blog, picking apples.
As the weather gets cooler, the more baking we do. Here is another apple recipe that is really good.

Hmmmmmmm..............Anyone interested in a soap with an Apple scent? If you have any scents or scent combos you would like us to try, give us a shout!! AND.......like I said before, you get to name it!! Leave a comment or an email!!!

Apples with Creamy Caramel Sauce
This recipe can be varied by substituting other chopped nuts or dried fruits. Dried currants, cherries or cranberries and chopped dried apricots work well, as do pecans, almonds or hazelnuts.

6 medium apples
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
Purchased caramel sauce or carmel sauce recipe from earlier blog
1. Heat oven to 325°F. Remove core from apples with apple corer or small knife; place apples in 13x9-inch pan.
2. Combine butter, brown sugar, maple syrup and cinnamon in small bowl. Stir in raisins and walnuts. Spoon mixture into center of apples; cover with foil.
3. Bake 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes or until apples are tender when pierced with knife. Serve warm with caramel sauce spooned over top.
6 servings


REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING : TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL.COM
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
http://burlapbabessoap.com/store/
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/

October 17, 2008

Thursday, October 16, 2008

My Most Favorite Scent, Patchouli!!!





Patchouli (also patchouly or pachouli) is a bushy herb of the mint family, with erect stems, reaching two or three feet in height and bearing small pale pink-white flowers. The plant is native to tropical regions of Asia and is now extensively cultivated in Caribbean countries, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Philippines, West Africa and Vietnam.
Known in the western world as that "Weird Hippy Smell", the scent of patchouli is heavy and strong. It has been used for centuries in perfumes and continues to be so today.





Extraction of the essential oil
Leaves are harvested several times a year, and where dried may be exported for distillation of the oil. Sources disagree over how to obtain the best quality oil. Some claim the highest quality oil is usually produced from fresh leaves, distilled close to the plantation, while others claim baling the dried leaves and allowing them to ferment a little is best

Uses
In Europe and the US, patchouli oil and incense underwent a surge in popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. It has also been used as a hair conditioner for dreadlocks. One study suggests Patchouli oil may serve as an outdoor insect repellent. In several Asian countries, such as Japan and Malaysia, Patchouli is also used as an antidote for venomous snakebites.
The plant and oil have a number of claimed health benefits in herbal folk-lore, and its scent is used with the aim of inducing relaxation. Chinese medicine uses the herb to treat headaches, colds, nausea, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Patchouli is also in widespread use in modern industry. It is a popular component in perfumes, including more than half of perfumes for men. Patchouli is also an important ingredient in East Asian incense. It is also used as a scent in products like paper towels, laundry detergents, and air fresheners.
During the 18th and 19th century silk traders from China traveling to the Middle East packed their silk cloth with dried patchouli leaves to prevent moths from laying their eggs on the cloth. Many historians speculate that this association with opulent eastern goods is why patchouli was considered by Europeans of that era to be a luxurious scent. It is said that Patchouli was used in the linen chests of Queen Victoria in this way

Cultivation
Patchouli grows well in warm to tropical climates. It thrives in hot weather but not direct sunlight. If the plant withers due to lack of watering it will recover well and quickly once it has been watered. The seed-bearing flowers are very fragrant and bloom in late fall. The tiny seeds may be harvested for planting, but they are very delicate and easily crushed. Cuttings from the mother plant can also be rooted in water to produce further plants.






It's said, You either Love it, or you hate it!! I truly love this scent!!!! It is very pricey, but we use it in the following soaps:

MUSKY ORANGE BLOSSOM=sensual, soothing patchouli with hint of orange

SOOTHING CITRUS=hint of lemon and patchouli with calendula petals

BURLY LAVENDER=soothing patchouli and relaxing lavender


PATCHOULI PATCH HEMP OIL SOAP- patchouli and exfoliate


SWEET EARTH HEMP OIL SOAP= patchouli with sweet orange


We tried to make some unique scents with the above, a scent for everyone. The latter two are mixed with hemp oil, a great combo!!!



Here are some other "things" I love too, try these recipes and see how you like them.



Blondie Brownies
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
3/4 cup white sugar
3 eggs
1 egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
6 tablespoons peanut butter
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup peanut butter
3 cups confectioners' sugar
1/3 cup milk

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt; set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together 3/4 cup of butter, brown sugar and white sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and yolk one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and 6 tablespoons peanut butter. Blend in the sifted ingredients and stir in the chocolate chips. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely before frosting.
To make the frosting, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of butter and 1 cup peanut butter together in a medium bowl. Mix in the confectioners sugar until smooth, then gradually stir in milk until a spreadable consistency is reached. Cut, serve and enjoy!


Walnut Brownies
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup butter
6 tablespoons carob powder
1 cup white sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 egg white
1 cup chopped walnuts

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
Melt the butter or margarine over low heat. Pour into large mixing bowl and stir in carob powder, sugar, salt, flour, and vanilla. Mix in egg whites and walnuts. Spread the dough evenly into the baking pan.
Bake for 30 minutes. Let cool in pan for 10-15 minutes before cutting.




REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING : TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL.COM
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
http://burlapbabessoap.com/store/
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/


October 16, 2008 Thursday

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Summers End






It's been really sunny, warm and beautiful outside!! But soon this nice weather will be gone! This summer everyone had a great time, despite the economy. Ty, Jeremy, Jay, and Mitch have their motorcycles and the little Miller's have their golf cart! Jennifer, Catherine, and Heather have their four-wheelers. The girls had tons of fun at Aunt Chris' swinging, and Julissa, well, Julissa is in her height of glory anywhere there is a camera!!! She's the one holding Tony the chihuahua (and I'll have you know I spelled it correctly, without looking it up, the first time!!!!!!!) Then of course we got the little ham, Emilee, wearing her chicken suit! When she's good, she's good, when she bad, she's REALLY bad!!




With the cooler weather around the corner comes Chili season!!! This crock pot recipe can be cooking while you're out on those cool fall days. Add some cornbread or bread bowls and invite family and friends and you've got a party!!!

Ingredients:

1 lb. ground beef, browned and drained

1 medium onion, diced

1 small or 1/2 large green pepper diced

1 1# can diced tomatoes

1 1# can chili beans (Brooks Hot Chili beans or kidney beans)

1 small can tomato paste

1 pkg chili seasoning mix

1 tblsp chili powderInstructions

Mix everything together in the crockpot and cook on low 6 or more hours. This is really good with some cheese stirred in just before serving and a dab of sour cream on top.

REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ, BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!!BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING : TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL
http://burlapbabessoap.com/store/
Hey, check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/


October 15, 2008

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Toot Your Horn



WE have a couple first year trumpet players. They just started learning to play these instruments in September and both will be having a concert within the next few weeks. Zachary, 11 years old, is daughter Jennifer's son, and Maryssa, 11 years old, is daughter Catherine's daughter. Keep up the good work Zach and Ryssa!!!!

Going to be getting some cold weather and what better to have than hot cocoa and marshmallows?????? Here are some recipes for the hot cocoa and making your own marshmallows!!!!!
HOT COCOA
Ingredients

2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup cocoa (Dutch-process preferred)
2 1/2 cups powdered milk
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or more to taste
Hot water
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and incorporate evenly. In a small pot, heat 4 to 6 cups of water.
Fill your mug half full with the mixture and pour in hot water. Stir to combine. Seal the rest in an airtight container, keeps indefinitely in the pantry. This also works great with warm milk.


Homemade Marshmallows

Ingredients:
2 1/2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
Confectioners' sugar (for dusting)
Combine gelatin and 1/2 cup cold water in the bowl of an electric mixer with whisk attachment. Let it stand 30 minutes.Combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt and 1/2 cup of water in a small heavy saucepan; place over low heat and stir until sugar has dissolved. Wash down sides of pan with a wet pastry brush to dissolve sugar crystals.Clip on a candy thermometer; raise heat to high. Cook syrup without stirring until it reaches 244 degrees (firm-ball stage). Immediately remove pan from heat.With mixer on low speed, slowly and carefully pour syrup into the softened gelatin. Increase speed to high; beat until mixture is very thick and white and has almost tripled in volume, about 15 minutes. Add vanilla; beat to incorporate.Generously dust an 8 x 12-inch glass baking pan with confectioners' sugar. Pour marshmallow mixture into pan. Dust with confectioners' sugar; let stand overnight, uncovered, to dry out.
REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ,BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!! BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING : TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE:
You will be sent an invoice and can pay thru paypal, money order or check.
Hey check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/
October 14, 2008 Tuesday

Monday, October 13, 2008

Kids, Kids, and More Kids!





Time passes so quickly!!!! Not too long ago, seems like yesterday, we had little people we were protecting, teaching, loving!! Now, today they have their own little people!!!With the 8 children are 21 grandbabies!! And.......................we will be having another little baby!!!

We are so excited!!!


Today is Catherine's birthday. Happy Birthday daughter CATHERINE!!!


Here is a great recipe for the whole group, big and little.
Alfredo sauce
2 c. heavy cream
1- 8 oz. package of cream cheese
1 clove chopped garlic
1 stick butter
Melt the butter in a sauce pan, add the clove of minced garlic. Saute the garlic till tender. Add the heavy cream and cream cheese (cut in small cubes) Keep on low stirring to melt the cream cheese. When totally melted and before it boils, take the pan off the heat.Pour over angel hair pasta.
REMEMBER OUR ANNIVERSARY SOAP SALE: 3/$10 GET YOUR BYE BYE BUGZ, BARNEY'S BUBBLES, AND ANY OTHER SCENTS YOU LOVE!!!BUY 6 BARS/FREE SHIPPING : TO GET THESE SPECIALS SELECT FROM LIST AND WRITE BURLAPBABESSOAP@AOL.COM / MOM5MILLER@AOL


Hey, check out this new blog!! Leave questions or comments!!http://handymanstipforhome.blogspot.com/

October 13, 2008 Monday