tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8786125802687091982024-03-16T00:49:27.630-05:00The Traveling CowgirlTheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.comBlogger246125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-82339104636578474792016-01-22T13:00:00.000-06:002016-01-22T13:00:13.845-06:00Planner/Calendar Holiday StickersI've always been a calendar person, I like to be able to look at our schedules at a glance and keep up with birthdays, even though I'm never good at getting cards out on time (sorry family and friends!). <div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikY1smuR4zvd9In-fOVlu1n7gc5D0h6dq3lBwvhXWHkxBZ-QlNYq2rrtAAAmZJ3mMQOHTO2lBES6fL7dWDK7p-GOLXhQO_FsXcXHAndF3-y5yk8iYrG0a34qENnll6lLwuDrr9343ejLCS/s1600/Holiday+stickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikY1smuR4zvd9In-fOVlu1n7gc5D0h6dq3lBwvhXWHkxBZ-QlNYq2rrtAAAmZJ3mMQOHTO2lBES6fL7dWDK7p-GOLXhQO_FsXcXHAndF3-y5yk8iYrG0a34qENnll6lLwuDrr9343ejLCS/s320/Holiday+stickers.jpg" width="240" /></a>In college I was a HUGE Franklin Covey person, now I need something with a lot more function. I take a lot of notes and have a running to-do list for my job so I needed something that was dual purpose so I finally broke down and bought an Erin Condren Notebook with the added Calendar to the front. So far I am really liking it and think it will wear well, although regardless if I did like it or not I was going to use it for the money I spent for it! But I wanted to do some more stickers for the calendar pages since I'm a visual person but I didn't want to spend $3.50 on an electronic download from Etsy that I was going to have to print and cut anyway so I just made my own. </div>
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This honestly took me all of 30 minutes to create and the best part is now I have a template that I can make other stickers in the future. These stickers will be just a little smaller than the Notebook Calendar squares because I wanted to be able to write in the spaces as well if there is another activity going on at that time. I then just print them on a Avery Sticker Sheet (mine is #15265) and cut them out with my hand Martha Stewart paper cutter I bought for wedding crafts. (Thanks to Michael's Crafts and their 40% off coupon!) </div>
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You will notice there aren't things on mine like Back to School and Spring Break because well we don't have kids nor are we teachers,but those items could be easily added in place of our Roping stickers. </div>
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Here is a <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/xjyayax6xha22uk/Planner%20Holiday%20Sitckers.pdf?dl=0"><b><span style="color: magenta;">link</span></b> </a>for a FREE download the PDF file of the stickers, or if you want the Publisher file I set up just leave your email in the comments section below and I will email it to you! </div>
TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-32496445716951510122016-01-19T13:10:00.001-06:002016-01-19T13:10:32.116-06:00Savory Onion Soup Pork Chops and Gravy - Sunday SuppersThis is a SUPER simple recipe that would be great for a week night or even a Sunday Supper with family or friends.<br />
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The recipe starts with bone-in pork chops, if you have a think about bone-in meet then you can use a boneless but it won't taste as good. I would go with at least an inch up to two inches, mine were 1.5. Smothered on the seasoning, threw in the crock pot with some broth, I used beef broth because I had it open from the chili I made the night before and let them cook. The key is to keep an eye on them and add more liquid as needed and to move the pork chops from standing on end to laying down half way through the cooking process.<br />
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To go along with the pork chops and gravy I made simple garlic mashed potatoes and roasted broccoli and mushrooms. You can make mashed potatoes really flavorful by adding tons of fresh garlic (I used three cloves for 3-4 small potatoes) and broth to moisten and you don't have to use as much butter and milk.<br />
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<b>Savory Onion Soup Pork Chops and Gravy</b><br />
4 bone-in pork chops, 1-2 inches thick<br />
1 packet of Onion Soup Mix<br />
1/2-2 cup of broth, divided (chicken or beef work fine)<br />
2 tsp butter<br />
3 tsp flour<br />
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Trim any excessive fat off the pork chops. Dry rub the onion soup mix all over the chops, pour any remaining soup mix in the bottom of your crockpot. Place the pork chops upright, like they are standing up on their edges leaning them against the sides or each other then add 1/2 cup of broth. Cook on low for 2-3 hours then place the pork chops in the bottom of the crock pot and stack them on top of each other and add more broth. Remember you will be using this broth to make the gravy so make sure you don't cook all the liquid out so keep adding it to the crockpot. If you feel like it is getting too rich then feel free to add a little water to balance it out. Cook the pork chops for 2-3 more hours, the meat should be falling off the bone and fork tender.<br />
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To make the gravy, pour the liquid and all the goodie from the soup mix into a liquid measuring cup. In a shallow skillet, melt the butter on medium-low heat, whisk in the flour until it forms a paste and let it cook for a couple of minutes making sure it doesn't burn. Slowly whisk in the cooking liquid from the crockpot until all lumps are gone. Turn up the heat and whisk occasionally until comes to a simmer and thickens, turn the heat to low and serve over the pork chops and mashed potatoes. <br />
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<br />TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-80121821410791486972016-01-12T09:36:00.001-06:002016-01-12T09:36:45.488-06:00Holiday Leftovers - Ham SaladSo don't cringe when I say Ham Salad...I know a lot of people have a negative connotation when they think of ham salad because their grandma made a soupy mess and slapped it on toast which got soggy instantly or the ham salad you buy at the deli already made is a funny Pepto Bismol color and believe me I don't eat neon colored foods!<br />
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But I love Ham Salad, my mom and grandmas made amazing ham salad, lets face it though my mom and grandmas are exceptional cooks, but I make it just a slight bit differently. However Ham Salad is a great option to use some of your left over ham from the holidays or just to give yourself a fast alternative to PB&J's which I purposely don't keep jelly in the house so I don't eat PB&J's ALL THE TIME.<br />
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Ham Salad is relatively easy and easily customizable to your tastes. In our home we aren't big sweet relish people so I like to use dill pickles and keep it salty and tangy vs. sweet. I love my grinder attachment for my Kitchenaid mixer, so easy to screw on and disassemble to clean. I've also learned that my ham grinds a little cleaner when it has been in the freezer for about 30 minutes prior to grinding.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNJ-Vn_vtaYPgm5BNgue8HAUmd8TmiaOSxjaTE6yaEPdGwZpoK99ysJPi11OEV8E_QBzmG2vRsQ6iMLz71XgVrHXZGBkUZ4AwSt77OGWcHz5rvyXxQEe8X2CeZ4GOeJkAcfnAm0dr7n3ts/s1600/IMG_8124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNJ-Vn_vtaYPgm5BNgue8HAUmd8TmiaOSxjaTE6yaEPdGwZpoK99ysJPi11OEV8E_QBzmG2vRsQ6iMLz71XgVrHXZGBkUZ4AwSt77OGWcHz5rvyXxQEe8X2CeZ4GOeJkAcfnAm0dr7n3ts/s320/IMG_8124.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By having the ham slightly frozen it prevents it from getting juicy and you get these awesome pieces of ground ham! </td></tr>
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I split this giant bowl in half, half is going to Ham Salad and half is going to Ham Balls that I'll make tomorrow and freeze for an awesome freezer meal later this winter.<br />
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You can use store bought dill pickle relish, but I like to put little whole dill pickles through the grinder because it makes the pieces the same size as the ham, plus it helps clean the ham out of the grinder.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZSrInxje-JN-oIQnZayBTQHegSeD9mWAQEnYEH6RFnQ-8IK8YIhHgVeYqk1vJ5UV5___-p4dGPywAsDDu7vOeiTIe6kDIrOrA7RsjmL4kdMKJzj8tPVxKkXlZ-mdAYVAsrul5lxBLHf7/s1600/IMG_8128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZSrInxje-JN-oIQnZayBTQHegSeD9mWAQEnYEH6RFnQ-8IK8YIhHgVeYqk1vJ5UV5___-p4dGPywAsDDu7vOeiTIe6kDIrOrA7RsjmL4kdMKJzj8tPVxKkXlZ-mdAYVAsrul5lxBLHf7/s320/IMG_8128.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doesn't everyone love a dill pickle grinder action shot? </td></tr>
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Now is the fun part...take mayo or Miracle Whip (whatever you desire), some mustard, garlic powder and sugar if you prefer it a little sweet. Combine these ingredients to your taste, if you like more mustard flavor add more mustard, etc. Mix it together well and gently mix with your ham and pickle mixture. Make sure you don't over mix because over mixing will make the meat tough. Cover and put in the fridge for the flavors to come together.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcFg6j2cxXDxqBjqYA0tAuTY_zA8S-F29RMXXjeSY-1y46wxu0hRyHLsV74Wun2IfUTZYSY1cqJ05W1KLc9B3V0QzjPRdByo1nLKu8AmPnLD3Wj96C244kGh2LdVuYlA_3qQP8itRTMjBF/s1600/IMG_8125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcFg6j2cxXDxqBjqYA0tAuTY_zA8S-F29RMXXjeSY-1y46wxu0hRyHLsV74Wun2IfUTZYSY1cqJ05W1KLc9B3V0QzjPRdByo1nLKu8AmPnLD3Wj96C244kGh2LdVuYlA_3qQP8itRTMjBF/s320/IMG_8125.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You will notice I have dill weed in my picture by not<br />listed above...well I like the dill in mine so I add<br />it to mine and leave it out of the hubs. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPPZS7Bjc1prjv61uhQLrervsogybWTrSYtCTqmUFYEsfzaLHaD83T5-ERhyphenhyphen4xJtFhWqyyl0OROSI1ynveBTr2aHgtEsd0PzQLp1HC7_GxDwSdsr4C1hh5hr7B5NRrssmEMHAm26BWMGh/s1600/IMG_8129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPPZS7Bjc1prjv61uhQLrervsogybWTrSYtCTqmUFYEsfzaLHaD83T5-ERhyphenhyphen4xJtFhWqyyl0OROSI1ynveBTr2aHgtEsd0PzQLp1HC7_GxDwSdsr4C1hh5hr7B5NRrssmEMHAm26BWMGh/s320/IMG_8129.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lightly mixed and ready to chill.</td></tr>
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EGGGGGGGSSSSS, Wait I almost forgot the eggs, well not really they've been coming to a boil next to me. I use the 13 minute egg method. Place your eggs in a pan and cover them with water, uncovered bring to a boil. Once they are rapidly boiling, turn off the burner and place a lid on the pot. Let them sit for 13 minutes, drain the water, fill the pot with ice and cold water and let the eggs cool down for at least 10 minutes. Peel the eggs and slice them and add them to the Ham Salad.<br />
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I like to eat my ham salad on saltine crackers and my hubs likes his on toast. Hope you enjoy!<br />
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Ham Salad Recipe (if I must put numbers to it)<br />
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2 cups of fresh ground ham<br />
6 baby whole dill pickles ground or 2 TBS dill pickle relish<br />
4 eggs, boiled, peeled, cooled and chopped<br />
1/2 cup mayo or Miracle Whip<br />
1 TBS yellow mustard<br />
1/2 tsp garlic powder<br />
1 tsp of dill (optional)<br />
Bread, toast, crackers, etc.<br />
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If your ham and pickles aren't already ground then grind them and add to a bowl. In a separate bowl combine mayo, mustard, garlic powder and dill, add to the ham and pickle mixture and gently mix. Add chopped egg and cover, chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes prior to serving. Will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.<br />
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<br />TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-17455900390896742482016-01-07T12:00:00.000-06:002016-01-07T17:34:39.849-06:00Caribbean Travel Tips <div class="MsoNormal">
I have been fortunate to go to a lot of different places…some
for fun and others for work…and I have learned a LOT about great places to go
(that people may not think are good places) and tricks and tips to ensure you
have a great time. Below are my <b><span style="color: magenta;">Top 8 Tips</span></b> for a great Caribbean Trip. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tip 1</b> – Know the weight restrictions the airline you are
flying has on your luggage. Nothing will start a trip off on the wrong foot
more than you and your travel buddy mad about having to pay extra $$ to check
your heavy luggage. Also some airlines charge you for EVERY checked bag
regardless of weight so also know that information so you can budget
accordingly. And if you purchase any alcohol, even at the airport you will need to pack it in your checked bag because once you clear customs in the US you have to go back through TSA and your booze will be over 3 ounces. I've had very good luck (knocking on wood) wrapping bottles up in clothes and placing them in the middle of my suitcase. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tip 2</b> – Chewable Pepto Bismol…I don’t have a medical reason
for this (I’m sure someone with a medical degree could help with that) but I
know if one or two tablets chewed every morning or before every meal will help
coat your stomach and help prevent illness. Now is it 100%, NO, but it is an
international travel agent trick and every time I’ve used it (Mexico, Jamaica)
I’ve never had a problem. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tip 3</b> – Pack your own sunscreen, SPF lip balm and after sun
lotion. You are going to pay MUCH less for it at home, you know it will be FDA
approved. The other benefit is that you will use it and leave the containers in
your destination country freeing up space for souvenirs to come home. Pack your
sunscreen in a zip lock baggie to prevent spillage. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tip 4</b> – Pack ALL liquids, creams, gels, etc. in zip lock
baggies and bring extras in case you bring something home that is liquid (ie.
Vanilla or Tequila from Mexico or Rum from Jamaica). If you know you are going
to possibly bring home something like alcohol also throw in some bubble wrap. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tip 5</b> – Make sure your passport expires at least 6 months
after the date of your return. For example, if you return on March 15, your
passport HAS to expire on September 16 or after. Also make a copy of your
passport and place in a separate place from your actual passport in the off
chance something happens to yours. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tip 6</b> – Snacks. I am a
wake-up-after-drinking-and-need-food-immediately person. I also sometimes just
want something that reminds me of home. I typically pack cheese/peanut butter
sandwich crackers for a snack because I can eat them morning, noon or night.
One thing you can’t take is fresh fruit or meat so DO NOT try and take those
items with you. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tip 7</b> – If you are going to an all-inclusive resort take a
bunch of $1 bills with you. If you tip your waiter or waitress or whomever is
bringing you drinks, you will get drinks much faster than you cheap friends
sitting beside you. I’m not saying flip them a $5 every time you get a drink,
but if you give them a $1 every time you and your travel buddy/friends get a
round they will take care of you. Even if the country you are in doesn’t work
in dollars, they will still take them, trust me. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tip 8</b> – If you are going to a country that does not use
dollars as their currency…exchange ONLY the money you think you will use when
you get to the airport currency exchange OR use the ATM and withdraw the money
you need. Currency exchange leaving the country is never as good as when you
arrived.</div>
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Here are some other posts I have that might help as well: </div>
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<a href="http://thetravelingcowgirl.blogspot.com/2015/01/winter-travel-must-haves.html"><b><span style="color: magenta;">Winter Travel Must-Haves</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Airport Etiquette Series – <b><span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://thetravelingcowgirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/airport-ettiquite-part-1-attire.html">Attire</a>, <a href="http://thetravelingcowgirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/airport-ettiquite-part-2-be-patient.html">Lines</a>, <a href="http://thetravelingcowgirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/airport-ettiquite-part-3-food-on-planes.html">Food</a></span> </b>and <b><a href="http://thetravelingcowgirl.blogspot.com/2009/08/airport-ettiquite-part-4-baggage-claim.html"><span style="color: magenta;">Baggage Claim</span></a></b></div>
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And my friend at <a href="http://crystalcattle.blogspot.com/2015/12/how-to-earn-free-skymiles-flights-faster.html"><b><span style="color: magenta;">Crystal Cattle</span></b></a> posted a great post on how to get the most from your airline miles...check it out! </div>
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TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-40558060028496213412015-11-15T20:00:00.001-06:002015-11-15T20:00:50.324-06:00DIY - Fabric CrossesSo I was perusing Pinterest lately, well everyday, but this particular day I came across this adorable fabric crosses on a piece of wood. Instantly I thought well I could do that, plus the $60 price tag was a little more than I wanted to spend on them.<br />
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So here is the step-by-step tutorial to make these adorable crosses. They can hang on a wall or even sit on a shelf or on an easel. My plan is to use this one for my holiday decorations!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtD61isn4eXG3uCyVU-vdMVfnkogF1Janmf2POlPxqzztbdQrJOhdQexvs1Hg01f616kbrjvPcf59F8diMSjR4zzVqQIjYfR139tuDZrYYtSkeXMmz43Fl9OnA-wg_sGirBcEvHIgkc3_G/s1600/IMG_7119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtD61isn4eXG3uCyVU-vdMVfnkogF1Janmf2POlPxqzztbdQrJOhdQexvs1Hg01f616kbrjvPcf59F8diMSjR4zzVqQIjYfR139tuDZrYYtSkeXMmz43Fl9OnA-wg_sGirBcEvHIgkc3_G/s320/IMG_7119.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Supplies:<br />
1 - 2x8 board cut 13 inches long (my awesome hubby cut mine, if you don't have access to a saw ask the lumber yard to cut them for you)<br />
Hand sander or sandpaper<br />
Wood stain<br />
Old Sock (or something to stain your board with)<br />
Rubber gloves<br />
Fabric of your choice<br />
Fabric cutting mat<br />
Cutting Wheel and Straight Edge<br />
Staple gun<br />
Hot glue gun<br />
Fabric/burlap/metal flowers (I purchased mine from Hobby Lobby in the scrapbooking section in packs of 4 for $3.99)<br />
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Step 1: Cut the boards, if they are already cut then you can skip this step<br />
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Step 2: Sand the boards on all sides and ends, I used 60 grit sandpaper and my trusty little hand sander. You don't need to go crazy just smooth any rough spots and the cut edges.<br />
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Step 3: Wipe down the boards and stain them. I put on nitrile gloves use a sock because I can put it on my hand and rub it on and work it into the grain of the wood. This method works great for me, if you have a different method then please use that. Set the boards on a covered surface and let them fully dry.<br />
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Step 4: Cut the fabric. I love my cutting mat and cutting wheel...I should have a nice plastic guide but unfortunately I've not seen that since we moved so I used a trusty carpenter's square for my straight edge. Make sure that your right edge is clean and straight, if not make a cut there and then measure out anywhere from 3.5-5 inches and make a clean strip. Your strip needs to be at least 30 inches long. If you don't have a cutting mat you can use scissors, I'm just not that steady so I stick to my mat. Note: if you have a patter that includes straight edges or repeating items use that as a guide how wide to make your fabric.<br />
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Step 5: Once the boards are dry position the fabric below the board leaving at least 1 inch hanging over after you wrap it to the back on both the top and bottom. Starting with one end pull the fabric around the end and place three staples across the back, go to the other end and pull the fabric taut but not too tight and place three more staples.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3nTsfzbj3i-JnPGSJzk66Y_6RR9n-ocNRI7ke8-H9AcCZMlBsr0HFMEp3cx40xcnkKnzJfJuc1lkyRX9ec9t_7DW4jeVAkvzwOHaV7-oFcMKi9rPIwxl3W-UEnEVOsmVZH1zd0nRqeuSi/s1600/IMG_7128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3nTsfzbj3i-JnPGSJzk66Y_6RR9n-ocNRI7ke8-H9AcCZMlBsr0HFMEp3cx40xcnkKnzJfJuc1lkyRX9ec9t_7DW4jeVAkvzwOHaV7-oFcMKi9rPIwxl3W-UEnEVOsmVZH1zd0nRqeuSi/s320/IMG_7128.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Step 6: Flip the board over and gauge where you want your cross to be, start in the middle and fold the fabric over to gather it and place a staple, repeat the process on either side and again on either side if you want. You can gather the fabric as many times as you want. I tend to do 3 or 4.<br />
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Step 7: Prep another strip of fabric to go across about 1/3 of the way down from the top, staple across the back as you did in Step 5.<br />
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Step 8: Flip the board over and repeat step 6, keeping in mind to keep your staples need to stay close enough together that your flower covers them completely.<br />
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Step 9: Remove your flower from the package and cover the back with hot glue and adhere it to the fabric covering all the staples.<br />
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This makes a great gift. If you want to make it so it can be hung on the wall you can simply add a picture hanger to the back or give it with a pretty metal easel.<br />
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TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-49622032839978648242015-10-14T14:40:00.000-05:002015-10-14T14:40:24.846-05:00Impromptu Dinner Guests So last night my husband was meeting with a customer and offered up our home for him to stay which makes a lot of sense, we live a ways from any hotels and for sure have the space for guests so I was happy to have him stay with us. But that also meant that I was on the spot for dinner for our guest and a couple of friends whom one is also a co-worker of the hubby.<br />
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I was lucky enough to have thawed out a pre marinated beef tenderloin from Sam's Club on Sunday to use this week so I just needed to add some sides and we would have a full meal for the 5 of us. I purchased potatoes on Monday at the store which I rarely do because well I love potatoes and I love to eat potatoes so I don't buy said potatoes. But Monday for some reason they spoke to me, call it comfort foods of fall or maybe I knew I had a tenderloin thawing in the fridge but I bought them and I'm happy I did!<br />
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So I went straight to Pinterest (visit my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/macklin/good-fixins/"><b><span style="color: magenta;">Good Fixings</span></b></a> board on Pinterest for this pin and many other yummy recipes) and found a great recipe called Melting Potatoes and thought it was worth a try, doesn't thyme, garlic and butter sound great on a potato to accompany a nice rarely grilled tenderloin. The Melting Potatoes were AMAZING!!! They do take some time to put together and you can't just put them in the oven and forget them but they are worth the effort and as my husband said we served a high end restaurant meal in our own home which is better than a restaurant any day any way!<br />
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To round out the meal I made red wine and butter poached mushrooms, roasted broccoli, rolls and apple turnovers using crescent roll dough with plenty of red wine (and Busch Light for the non-red wine fans) to go around.<br />
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Here is the recipe for the <a href="http://spicysouthernkitchen.com/melting-potatoes/"><span style="color: magenta;"><b>Melting Potatoes</b></span></a> from the Spicy Southern Kitchen.<br />
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<div class="ERSIngredients" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">
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Ingredients</div>
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<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled <i>(I used red potatoes)</i></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">6 tablespoons butter, melted</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme <i>(I used 1 tsp dried thyme)</i></li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">1 teaspoon salt</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">½ teaspoon pepper</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">1¼ cups chicken broth</li>
<li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed and peeled</li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: 1.4em; font-weight: 800; line-height: inherit;"><div class="ERSIngredients" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 1.4em; font-weight: 800; line-height: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
Instructions</span><div class="ERSClear" style="clear: both; height: 0px; line-height: 0; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
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<div class="ERSInstructions" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">
<ol style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;">Place oven rack in upper-middle position of oven and heat oven to 500 degrees.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;">Combine melted butter, thyme, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;">Square off ends of potatoes and cut into ¾ to 1-inch thick disks.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;">Toss potato slices in butter mixture and arrange in a single layer in a 13 by 9-inch metal baking pan.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;">Roast for 15 minutes.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;">Remove pan from oven and use a spatula to flip potatoes over. Place back in oven for 15 minutes.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;">Remove pans from oven and flip potatoes one more time. Add chicken broth and garlic. Place back in oven until potatoes are tender, about another 15 minutes.</li>
<li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: inherit; list-style: decimal outside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;">Baste potatoes with sauce and serve.</li>
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Be sure to use a metal baking pan. A glass baking dish can shatter in a very hot oven.</div>
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TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-39712723069892519272015-10-07T15:29:00.000-05:002015-10-07T15:29:23.795-05:00Back to blogging (and a FUN recipe)I have missed blogging, but things have been crazy in our lives (you know like everyone else's lives, when did we all get soooo busy?) but I have missed blogging, the therapy of sitting down at a computer and knocking out some words that reflect how I feel, think, act or whatever at the time. I usually like to have a plan when I am 'back to blogging' but this time I'm keeping it free form...so you have been forewarned that this will be an even more random blog that it has been since inception.<br />
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One thing that remains the same is there will be cooking. Here is a fun little recipe that I made last Saturday when we had some folks over to watch the Iowa/Wisconsin Game. Yes I said the Iowa game...I was wearing my Mizzou shirt and there was another Mizzou influence in the mix.<br />
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The recipe is super simple and works great in our donut pans we got as a wedding gift which makes me feel a little better about them since they are baked and not fried!<br />
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<a href="http://www.foodiemisadventures.com/2012/10/cinnamon-sugar-apple-cider-doughnuts-baked.html">Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Donuts</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoBnX1khJVx9kHz5ncPvGi6WEIiaj1fJl64diiNih8qy35LF3GkQdvACPIE80shIRwY10wlSc1_kgGul6RQcez_9WMULJAQJoHHefw0hCCXuLFx7kKdKxqMp7QgM0M8ktABgCefWDJsQG/s1600/IMG_6601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoBnX1khJVx9kHz5ncPvGi6WEIiaj1fJl64diiNih8qy35LF3GkQdvACPIE80shIRwY10wlSc1_kgGul6RQcez_9WMULJAQJoHHefw0hCCXuLFx7kKdKxqMp7QgM0M8ktABgCefWDJsQG/s320/IMG_6601.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even Truman approves!!! </td></tr>
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<br />TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-77447849605364944272015-05-06T10:29:00.001-05:002015-05-06T10:29:32.156-05:00Mother's Day Gift GiideMother's Day is just a few days away,<div>but never fear procrastinators...there are still a lot of great ideas you can put together before Sunday! I'm not a mom, but I know a lot of moms and I'm pretty sure there is something on this list for every mom! </div><div><br></div><div>Beauty:</div><div>Spa gift certificate - she can get a facial, massage, nails, etc. on her own time!</div><div><br></div><div>MAC Lip Stick - it is luxurious and wonderful and perfect for a mom who loves lipstick! I love Up the Amp for spring! </div><div><br></div><div>Indie Lee Skin Care - love this stuff, I'm obsessed with her Squalane Facial Oil it is fast absorbing and both my mom (drier skin) and I (normal to oily) love it!</div><div><br></div><div>If all else fails, you can't go wrong with a Sephora or Ulta gift card!</div><div><br></div><div>Cooking: </div><div>Herb garden - buy a pretty pot and plant two to three of your mom's favorite herb to cook with, it is the gift that keeps on giving. </div><div><br></div><div>Flowering plants:</div><div>If your mom already has the pits steal them and fill them with some beautiful flowering plants. I love to do tall grass in the back, a geranium or two and some wave petunias or sweet potato vine off the front.</div><div><br></div><div>Make her something: </div><div>I'm not meaning a dry pasta necklace but maybe it is your own sugar scrub (easy...sugar, oil, essential oils in a cute mason jar, so very affordable). Or buy a wooden crate at a craft store, paint or stain it and put it on casters for portable storage great for a closet or pantry! Make</div><div>her muffins and pair them with some fruit in a basket (we all have them laying around) for easy breakfast so she can sleep in or relax. </div><div><br></div><div>If all else fails, if your mom is on Pintetest go to her boards and find her something you know she will never buy for herself! </div>TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-15180011780295041572015-04-29T15:39:00.001-05:002015-04-29T15:39:58.260-05:00Work-from-Home Morning Beauty RoutineI work from home and thus people think that I must sleep until 9 and go to work in my PJ's. Well that is actually pretty far from the truth. When I started working from home I asked friends that worked from home how did they stay motivated and they all had the same general comment, have a routine. Sounded pretty simple and honestly it is.<br />
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I am lucky we have an extra smaller bedroom in the basement, where I am currently, that is my dedicated office so there isn't anything to distract me. Every day I wake up, work out, shower, get dressed and grab breakfast before heading into the 'office'. Even though I don't go into a physical office, and on most days don't see anyone except my husband I do have a simple beauty routine I follow. For me it is an important step so I feel like me and feel like I'm at work, guess it was 10+ years I worked in an office and needed to look presentable to the outside world.<br />
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Here is my daily, work-from-home, beauty routine.<br />
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<b>Too Faced Tinted Beauty Balm</b> - I love this product because it isn't heavy like foundation but provides a very sheer light coverage plus a little sun protection AND moisturizer.<br />
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<b>Benefit Fake Up</b> - This concealer is amazing and works for when I need a little under eye pick-me-up.<br />
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<b>Femme Couture Shimmer Stick</b> - is a fantastic eye crayon I received from a <a href="http://crystalcattle.blogspot.com/2015/04/birthday-beauty-swap-recap.html"><b><span style="color: magenta;">Crystal Cattle Beauty</span></b></a> Swap from Alison at <a href="http://outsidetheagroom.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: magenta;"><b>Outside the Ag Room</b></span></a>. The color is Moon Glow and it has a hint of purple with a hint of brown, I can swipe it on my lower lid and looks like I tried.<br />
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<b>Eyelash Curler</b> - I have had this Mary Kay eyelash curler for YEARS! I'm not saying it is the best curler around but it is the one I have.<br />
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<b>Mascara</b> - I got back and forth between the ULTA Plush Dramatic Volume Mascara and the Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara. Both are great but I probably tend to wear the Ulta on any given day and the Too Faced when I go out of the house.<br />
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Anyone else out there work from home or have a great quick product they love on the weekends?TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-59404206710598646792015-04-29T15:11:00.001-05:002015-04-29T15:11:33.414-05:00Introducing Mrs. Rice........yes that is me! I was fortunate enough to marry my one and only on March 28th!<br />
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Which explains why I was relatively radio silent for the last few months because I was not only planning a wedding while we continue to work on the homestead but the company I work for also was purchased so adjusting to a new company and planning a trip to Mexico for the new company for 600 of my favorite people...basically I had a lot going on...just like everyone else.<br />
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I will be sharing a couple of pictures from our big day in this post but I will be doing extended blogs about how to not let Pinterest ruin your wedding and how to be a chill bride (yes, for those of you who know me personally you are probably shocked to hear that everyone kept calling me such a relaxed and easy-going bride!).<br />
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<br />TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-62971119486495437672015-01-15T14:47:00.002-06:002015-01-15T14:47:50.341-06:00Grey Hair DO CareUm, yea that statement is NOT correct, grey hair I care very much. Fact is that I have had grey hair since I was in my mid-20's. At this point I'm not sure how much grey I have, but I know it is enough and I don't know what my natural hair color is but that is why I have a GREAT, GREAT, GREAT colorist! <br />
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But if you are like me you can't always get to your awesome colorist on a timely basis and your hair color is a little far from your natural color so the regrowth doesn't always match well I was running out of creative ways to style my hair so I couldn't see the great regrowth line. Or maybe you want to extend the time between colors to save some money. But I have found an awesome temporary solution....let me introduce my new special little friend. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks like I'm preparing to shoot the camera! </td></tr>
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Rita Hazan Root Concealer, which I purchased from Sephora. This product is awesome and comes in 4 great shades, lucky for me the red is VERY close to the current color of my hair. The can is small with a very fine extended nozzle that allows for targeted application. It sprays on very lightly and easily covers your hair...and it stays very well as I only wash my hair every few days and as long as I don't change my part I don't have to worry about reapplying product. I will say that after a while the product does build up a little and you may have to wash your hair or using a baking soda wash every now and then to get it completely cleaned out. The only caution is that if you get the spray on your face it will stain unless wiped off pretty quickly so I hold a towel up to my face while I spray the product on.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLqCQptUckccG3R2i-oNRhNROEwU4995lGeO3EtY35WvphdbBHtP4d4u6cz0my2pqhGlyq2KJSXmoCOCNU7xCdZ1a-oHDkGSQnaZe5LiiM1P9iPjtZ2LoM-BEndctGh0tNfkgSc55cT5II/s1600/IMG_3336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLqCQptUckccG3R2i-oNRhNROEwU4995lGeO3EtY35WvphdbBHtP4d4u6cz0my2pqhGlyq2KJSXmoCOCNU7xCdZ1a-oHDkGSQnaZe5LiiM1P9iPjtZ2LoM-BEndctGh0tNfkgSc55cT5II/s1600/IMG_3336.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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<br />TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-87612954897992432792015-01-11T08:00:00.001-06:002015-01-11T08:00:39.347-06:00Winter Travel Must-HavesSo I am currently on the road on day 5 of a 12 day work trip...and not it isn't even out of the country which is very disappointing, but at least I am in the Southeast where it is warmer than it is in Iowa...I didn't say warm I just said warmer! <br />
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I wanted to share with you all 4 of my winter travel must-haves. I have a lot of travel tips due to the fact that I travel so much, which I will continue to share with you, but this one is super important for any of you taking a trip during the cold winter months. <br />
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1. <a href="http://www.sephora.com/the-clean-truth-cleansing-cloths-brightening-P385342?skuId=1597186&om_mmc=ppc-GG&mkwid=CEpRHKYk&pcrid=49113159759&pdv=c&site=us_search&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CL3b1Jq4h8MCFU4V7Aod_AMA7w">Ole Henrikson Brightening Facial Wipes</a> - These are amazing, they have a nice scent, they are mild enough for dry winter skin, tough enough to remove your make up and also has vitamin C! I get these from Sephora. They are awesome. <br />
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2. Josie Marin Oil - I use this oil for a little big of everything on the road, smoothing fly aways, under eye serum at night, mix with my CC cream if my face is feeling dry, cracked heels (because I am way overdue for a pedicure), etc. You can get this at a lot of places, obviously Sephora. <br />
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3. Ocean Saline Spray - Hotel rooms are DRY and my nose hates that! I love this to help help keep the inside of my nose moist. <br />
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4. Blender Bottle - The ONLY way I can stay on track while I am on the road is if I eat my breakfast in my room. Having a shake is super simple and helps me get my day started right and reduces the temptations. <br />
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I would be remiss to exclude the GIANT bottle of water I have with me at all time, but it just didn't make it in the picture. <br />
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What are some of your favorite winter travel must-haves?<br />
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TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-69033998528432827902015-01-08T07:00:00.000-06:002015-01-08T07:00:02.787-06:00Nephew DIY ProjectsI have been on the road quite a bit lately and it hasn't changed I am currently on a 12 day trip so I thought it was time to get back to my blog. Here are a couple of projects that I worked on before Christmas...but there is a story behind them. <br />
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SO I will learn someday to always take before pictures when I start these DIY projects, but since I didn't I'm going to have to show you a couple of after pictures, explain what I (and my helper elves) did and let you imagine how hideous the original pieces were. Or my friend Jennie can vouch for how ugly the pieces were because she was with me when I bought them as the Good Will people were giving us a dirty look at 8:45 on a Monday night with the constant reminder that they were closing at 9:00. Yep we get it...moving right along now. <br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><strong>LEGO Table</strong></span><br />
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This was super duper easy...all you need is an old end table or bedside table with a drawer or two...mine came from Good Will...1970's style with a drawer and a shelf under neath. I took the hardware off the drawer and wiped it down good with a disinfectant and then used Chalkboard spray paint and gave it a couple of good coats. Then I purchased a couple of Lego plates from Amazon (big surprise) and used E6000 to glue them down. We took over sized Legos and replaced the drawer pulls. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMHsf76DBDarO577WE5_td5yC_gPn4t-Lvq4Pb-2K0j0l2I4BiS8Eqnl4VlnjZLPTkMTdKhuKwV9CPeSXD7a6dGTXPCENV1TktZ7mWCzb6vbvetm1ZrqTFCkFtYDB8294L7mS64aW_x8t/s1600/IMG_3098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMHsf76DBDarO577WE5_td5yC_gPn4t-Lvq4Pb-2K0j0l2I4BiS8Eqnl4VlnjZLPTkMTdKhuKwV9CPeSXD7a6dGTXPCENV1TktZ7mWCzb6vbvetm1ZrqTFCkFtYDB8294L7mS64aW_x8t/s1600/IMG_3098.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My future sister-in-law will love this picture, but honestly RK it was the best one I had of the table! </td></tr>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><strong>Kids Card Table</strong></span><br />
<br />
This was ROUGH...so very rough. I found it at Good Will the same night I got the Lego table. It looked like it was also from the 70's but it was in great shape and just needed a little TLC. So I paid $9 for it and purchased a $3 vinyl table cloth on sale at Wal-Mart and used a can of Espresso colored Spray Paint and went to town. For the top I removed the cardboard top and asked Jake and his sister (insert future sister-in-law from above picture) to help me put it together, how they did it I have no idea but I think it was a lot like putting fabric on a chair, etc. BUT it is so cute and the nephews had their own table at Thanksgiving and we can use it for a lot of functions and it cost less than $20!<br />
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TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-58158780405948313942015-01-02T16:20:00.001-06:002015-01-02T16:20:25.364-06:00#ccbeautyswap Anniversary Edition & Fiber Lash Winner AnnouncedI was so honored that Crystal asked me to co-host the anniversary beauty swap with her. I've participated in all the swaps so far and have loved every moment of meeting each person I've connected with and trying out my awesome new products...some of which have become a staple in my make-up bag on a daily basis. <br />
<br />
This swap I was lucky enough to be paired with Crystal and I was so excited to get some awesome goodies from here and those of you who follow me on Instagram (@travelingcowgirl) know what I received already but I wanted to provide a little more detail below! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXi0lrRrdBV5kYCL8LHTonThpWXquH7Ks2iS9v6r_O310daOkU2yOjTdno3w3QVVa6ISXoetFgPEKMBtxwQix27ICrByhhPYAHyNoYslOZ-JYK-pkz1IOYLVEZXQcXXLADJDxLNXXF46f/s1600/IMG_2670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXi0lrRrdBV5kYCL8LHTonThpWXquH7Ks2iS9v6r_O310daOkU2yOjTdno3w3QVVa6ISXoetFgPEKMBtxwQix27ICrByhhPYAHyNoYslOZ-JYK-pkz1IOYLVEZXQcXXLADJDxLNXXF46f/s1600/IMG_2670.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Josie Marin oil - YOU CAN DO ANYTHING WITH THIS...under your eyes for extra moisture, on your ends to smooth your hair, add a few drops to your CC cream for smoother application. This is the second time I've received this oil (and I was out when I got this one so bonus for me) and it is amazing...try it...today. <br />
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MAC Lipstick and eyeshadow - Before the swap I had never tried any MAC products and I have to say I am a pretty big fan...the lipsticks go on smooth as do the eye shadows and they have just enough shimmer without being overly sparkly. I'm quickly becoming a MAC fan. <br />
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Nivea Chap Stick is in my purse at all times now...I love it!<br />
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I've not had a chance to try the mask but hope to this weekend. If you want to see my other posts from my other swaps check them out here: <br />
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Swap with Taysha - can be found on my Instagram page<br />
<a href="http://thetravelingcowgirl.blogspot.com/2014/05/ccbeautyswap-3.html"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Swap with Nicole</span></strong></a><br />
<a href="http://thetravelingcowgirl.blogspot.com/2014/03/beauty-swap-2-im-new-mac-fan.html"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Swap with Lauren</span></strong></a><br />
<a href="http://thetravelingcowgirl.blogspot.com/2014/01/crystal-cattle-beauty-swap.html"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Swap with Erin</span></strong></a> <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sporting my new eyeshadow and lipstick!</td></tr>
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<br />
And now for the big winner of the 3-D Fiber Lash Mascara...congratulations Carly Cummings! Please send me an email at <a href="mailto:melacklin@hotmail.com">melacklin@hotmail.com</a> with your address and I'll get your new Sassy Lashes in the mail early next week! TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-30868325028200830032014-09-25T12:15:00.000-05:002014-09-25T12:15:00.277-05:00Taco ChiliSo I think of this as Taco Soup, Jake calls it Taco Chili...whatever we call it I'm in love with how easy it is to pull together and how easy it is to freeze. <br />
<br />
Start with your crock pot...I LOVE my crock pot, I have 3 of them, big, medium and tiny (perfect for cheese dips, etc.). Here is how you make this wonderful pot of goodness...I know it is a lot of cans and some people are against cans, but you could do it without the cans if you wanted to work really hard...I don't want to work really hard and cans don't scare me so I go with cans. This recipe will provide 6 or so servings so it is perfect for Jake and I for a nightly meal and then 4 zip lock baggies for the freezer. <br />
<br />
Taco Chili<br />
1 pound ground beef, browned and drained <br />
1 can rotel, I use the green chili kind<br />
1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes<br />
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed<br />
1 can diced green chilies<br />
1 can enchilada sauce (I use the green kind, but any kind would work)<br />
2 TBS taco seasoning (you can use more or less depending on your preference)<br />
8-12 oz tomato juice (depending on how thick you want it)<br />
<br />
Put all ingredients into the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3. I top with some shredded cheese and plain, non-fat Greek yogurt.<br />
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Freezer Prep Method: <br />
If you wanted to prep all the ingredients and give this away to a friend you could brown the hamburger and onions and cool that mixture then add everything to a gallon sized zip lock baggie with the cooking instructions on the outside and freeze then give to a friend or pull out when you are having a long week. Note: I find it easier to write on the bags when there isn't anything in them, so keep a Sharpie in your silverware drawer for just this occasion. <br />
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There are lots of variations you can make to this, don't like green chilies (shame on you) you can remove all together, you could add corn (I love corn, just not in soups), you could add other seasonings like chipolte or tomatillo salsa instead of the rotel...you could replace the ground beef with turkey or chicken or a can of pinto beans. TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-75332485285476793522014-09-23T12:15:00.000-05:002014-09-23T12:15:00.460-05:00Homemade Chicken Noodle SoupIt is September 23rd and sickness has hit our house. Well it started with me getting a sinus infection/allergies two weeks ago and then he came down with the crud hard on Sunday...let's hope we are getting this out of our systems before real winter hits. So I thought what makes you feel better than Chicken Noodle Soup. <br />
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I am calling this homemade Chicken Noodle Soup but please don't think that the noodles are homemade, if they were then I would call this Chicken and Noodles, you all agree right? <br />
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Well even if you don't here is the world's most simple and tasty Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup that only takes 30 minutes from start to finish to complete, can't beat that! <br />
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1 precooked rotisserie chicken<br />
1/4 white or yellow onion<br />
15 baby carrots, the smaller the better (optional)<br />
1 stalk of celery (optional)<br />
1 tsp chopped garlic<br />
1 1/2 boxes of 99% fat free, 33% lower sodium chicken broth<br />
1 cup water<br />
1 bay leaf<br />
1/2 bag No Yolk Egg Noodles<br />
2 tsp All Purpose Greek Seasoning (Salt Free)<br />
Butter, olive oil, salt and pepper<br />
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Start your butter and olive oil in a stock pot. I use about 1 TBS butter and about the same olive oil. Finely dice your onion, chop your carrots and celery and add to the pan over medium heat. Let that mixture cook for 5-7 minutes or until your onions start to turn translucent, add the garlic and cook for one minute making sure it doesn't burn.<br />
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Next add your chicken broth, water and bay leaf to the pot and turn the heat up to medium high and bring the broth to a boil. Once to a boil add your egg noodles stirring as you add so they don't stick to each other and return to a boil. Reduce to a slow boil/simmer and cook for 12 minutes or until the noodles are cooked. While your noodles are cooking remove all the meat from your chicken and chop coarsely. Once the noodles are cooked, remove the bay leaf, add the chicken and Greek Seasoning and additional salt and pepper to fit your taste. Serve immediately. <br />
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This will keep in the refrigerator in plastic containers for a few days. It will freeze but I've never had the best luck freezing cooked noodles so if you can eat it in a couple days it would probably be best. This recipe above made 5 big servings. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdVmA1WtP62DP4p1MgIBmEFhiPLuqj9KbdJmNy1DHlBi8NEh0jVYsIJ2YoMGtB5XKkxHNf7GQsmwvOh_u1Mnem46mJDJYeKnXAvptb5pcHk98PGvkGjpqQ-_q2NOe1YZHtKVfTrD9NaJr/s1600/chicken+noodle+soup;.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdVmA1WtP62DP4p1MgIBmEFhiPLuqj9KbdJmNy1DHlBi8NEh0jVYsIJ2YoMGtB5XKkxHNf7GQsmwvOh_u1Mnem46mJDJYeKnXAvptb5pcHk98PGvkGjpqQ-_q2NOe1YZHtKVfTrD9NaJr/s1600/chicken+noodle+soup;.PNG" height="320" width="222" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a picture of the final product, no I am not a food photographer but it doesn't look too bad. You will notice we don't have celery in our soup because someone who will remain nameless but is currently sick doesn't like celery in soups. No biggie we just left it out and I added some celery flakes to it. </td></tr>
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I also must have deleted the picture from my phone after I posted it to Instgram so here is a screen grab of my Instagram post. Do you follow me on Instagram? If not, you should. @travelingcowgirlTheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-80904007946858076072014-09-19T12:27:00.000-05:002014-09-19T12:27:11.216-05:00Ready for the WeekendWhew...what a week! I have been on the road for the last 4 or is it 5 weeks, honestly I have lost track so I am for sure ready for the weekend. Last weekend we had a nice relaxing weekend at home, we had plenty of projects to do inside and out...I was working on priming and painting the laundry sorter that Jake built me and mowing the yard...again...can someone please tell Mother Nature that it is September and the grass needs to die?!?!? And Jake worked on getting our barn ready for concrete, gravel to be put in the driveway and getting my trailer prepped for my big road trip to Texas in a couple of weeks (more about that soon!). In addition to all that fun stuff I spent a lot of time in the kitchen getting meals prepped for us for the winter, and making a few extras to give to three of my friends/co-workers who are have had/having babies in the next month or so. It is nice that I can work off my kitchen island and see the TV from there...I get to watch football and be productive at the same time! Double Bonus!!<br />
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I wanted to share with you some successful recipes from last weekend. I only share recipes from Pinterest that I've tried myself and I will always tell you if I modify them in any way. <br />
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First of all I made the meat sauce from this Spaghetti Squash Lasagna recipe. One thing I do is I remove the fennel from the meat sauce because well we aren't fans of fennel. You are probably saying why in the world is she making her own meat sauce, but that stuff out of a jar. Which is true and I do love a couple of jarred pasta sauces including Trader Joe's and Classico, but there is a lot of sugar and sodium in those, plus my hamburger is already browned in the sauce! <a href="http://www.closetcooking.com/2013/10/lasagna-stuffed-spaghetti-squash.html">http://www.closetcooking.com/2013/10/lasagna-stuffed-spaghetti-squash.html</a><br />
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Next I had bought a big package of chicken thighs at the store...I like them because they have a little more flavor and they are cheaper. I don't like them because they have bones and usually you have to remove the skin yourself but it typically does come off very easily. So I made a couple of these Artichoke Chicken Thighs. Now Jake doesn't care for those flavors so I made a big pan to take to a friend and then a couple of small pans that I can make for myself if he is on the road one night. <br />
<a href="http://shasonta.wordpress.com/2013/09/18/artichokechickenthighs/">http://shasonta.wordpress.com/2013/09/18/artichokechickenthighs/</a><br />
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Then the sweets snuck in...so I have been doing really good about eating healthy, but it is Pumpkin season and well I LOVE pumpkin so I am not going to completely avoid the pumpkin but be better about what i made. So I made Pumpkin-Oat Chocolate Chip Cookies, what I learned is that they are very soft and I should have left them on the baking racks to harden a little more than I did because they got overly soft in the container I put them in, but they were good none-the-less. <br />
<a href="http://www.cookingclassy.com/2014/08/pumpkin-oat-chocolate-chip-cookies/">http://www.cookingclassy.com/2014/08/pumpkin-oat-chocolate-chip-cookies/</a><br />
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Then what everyone should make this weekend, go buy your favorite baking apple and whip up a batch of the Pioneer Woman's perfect pie crust and make these Salted Carmel Apple Hand Pies. <br />
<a href="http://www.justataste.com/2012/09/salted-caramel-apple-hand-pies-recipe/">http://www.justataste.com/2012/09/salted-caramel-apple-hand-pies-recipe/</a> I'm sure her pie crust is just as good but my mom said that PW's was a great one and my mom makes the best pies so that is the direction I went. <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/12/p-p-p-pie_crust_and_its_p-p-p-perfect/">http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/12/p-p-p-pie_crust_and_its_p-p-p-perfect/</a> I will say the hand pies are only going to be good and carmel filled if they are warm so keep that in mind when you serve them. <br />
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Hope this crazy rant of a Friday post will provide you with some recipe inspiration for your weekend! TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-13018488415297398922014-09-12T09:00:00.000-05:002014-09-12T09:00:01.716-05:00Boot Storage - DIYAt the Rancho Not So Grande, we have a plethora of boots...not just cowboy boots but we do have our fair share we also have work boots, rubber boots, snow boots you name it we have them. So I wanted a good way to organize them in the garage right as you walk in the door so they weren't collecting in my laundry room floor all the time. <br />
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So I found a way on <a href="http://findinghomeonline.com/organizing-ideas-repurposed-diy-vintage-crate-boot-rack/"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Pinterest</span></strong></a> and thought I would try it out. I just bought wooden crates from Michaels Art and Crafts store (note: they always have a coupon so download their app or go online so you don't pay full price because they add up when you buy as many as you need for this project). Then arrange them as you feel they would work best for you, as I mentioned we have a lot of boots so I needed more vertical oriented crates than horizontal, but I also created some space in and around the crates for extra shoes to go as well. I haven't affixed these together since I wasn't sure I loved the orientation and I like the flexibility to change it as I go, but so far so good. I also will still be on the hunt for some vintage crates or larger crates that can be swapped out on the bottom. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8bFtqLtMFVCL-aBBZua-scG6HoldqZdl-K3amtfvEKmW8nqr6xaliAQkHt6EW5d_Dk6VkvKl59zoa8XTEqaxoTN2iZFqwGIXb60fTK5P2bOOD3ri_q93FclH9fVrtOvXk8j8aMfis3gX5/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8bFtqLtMFVCL-aBBZua-scG6HoldqZdl-K3amtfvEKmW8nqr6xaliAQkHt6EW5d_Dk6VkvKl59zoa8XTEqaxoTN2iZFqwGIXb60fTK5P2bOOD3ri_q93FclH9fVrtOvXk8j8aMfis3gX5/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After, it isn't sexy but it is functional!</td></tr>
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TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-51264193744973197912014-09-10T09:00:00.000-05:002014-09-10T09:00:06.697-05:00Oatella Cookies Stop what you are doing. <br />
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Go straight to the grocery and buy a brand new jar of Nutella. (because if you are like me you never have a full, unopened jar of Nutella in the house)<br />
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Go home and make these cookies. <br />
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Now. <br />
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I found this recipe on Pinterest and it is what I call a 'Nailed It' recipe now. I've actually created a board on Pinterest called <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/oatella-cookies"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">'Nailed It'</span></strong></a> to track my success because it is important to know what is successful and what isn't because I think we all have learned that there is plenty on there that takes skills beyond what an average person has, and I consider myself a fairly crafty person. <br />
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The pin came from <a href="http://www.cookiemadness.net/2014/06/oatella-cookies-from-food-and-wine/"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Cookie Madness</span></strong></a>, but the recipe is actually from <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/oatella-cookies"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Food and Wine</span></strong></a>. <br />
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I thought the only thing that was hard to follow was how long the cookies needed to bake...did they bake for 8-10 minutes total and you were supposed to move the pans at 4-5 minutes or was 8-10 minutes half way. Well I tried 8-10 initially and realized that was way too short, but 16-20 made a pretty crunchy cookie, imagine a great cookie with coffee...so I split the difference I went about 12 minutes total and they were still a little gooey in the middle when I took them out of the oven and they tasted awesome and didn't get too hard when they cooled. <br />
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Pour yourself a big glass of milk and ENJOY!TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-76731129692069371872014-09-09T18:27:00.002-05:002014-09-09T18:27:31.860-05:00House Remodel - Master BathroomThe Rancho Not So Grande master bedroom and bathroom is one of the most favorite places of mine in the house. Here is some info about the master bathroom upcycle. We did a lot more to this bathroom and are so happy that we did. <br />
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Here are some pictures of the original bathroom...yes you are seeing that correctly there are two showers a stand up and a shower tub combo. I like to call them his and hers showers, because who doesn't need his and hers showers. <br />
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It is hard to say what needed to go first so here is the list of the things that we changed: <br />
<ol>
<li>Replaced the vinyl with tile</li>
<li>Removed the wall paper and paint the walls</li>
<li>Remove and replace the vanity</li>
<li>Replace light fixture</li>
<li>Frame out the showers</li>
<li>Replace the toilet and fan/light kit</li>
<li>Paint built-in medicine cabinet doors</li>
</ol>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiG9RCGGnIL-ZvhFhlAvjNSWk1Vb3ScivD5K22VDsk7tERUV4KSkTbiRdBvTHUuu9sAT0VwY0rPtp3jyg7_cxelh570Ghu2CYJ-K2DeO58gkr4rV3dmLpyPS75y6b6t5pHB1CoQQQfOwi3/s1600/mastervanity.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiG9RCGGnIL-ZvhFhlAvjNSWk1Vb3ScivD5K22VDsk7tERUV4KSkTbiRdBvTHUuu9sAT0VwY0rPtp3jyg7_cxelh570Ghu2CYJ-K2DeO58gkr4rV3dmLpyPS75y6b6t5pHB1CoQQQfOwi3/s1600/mastervanity.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before: En suite bathroom with one sink...I think not. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODl8n1AQ3GdifJsFWlA4Exd1yqq8PpjHtIGfQaSrLnJ4H7MK1AkYtYLJVqGReVYEuEus7Y-tUV6jYDBW8OWb82ez4Vvkp1BYtR8D4ZX7kR4E8ojVusZkIVf8_Vd1ivRU5j543YuqLY8UG/s1600/mastertoiletshower.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODl8n1AQ3GdifJsFWlA4Exd1yqq8PpjHtIGfQaSrLnJ4H7MK1AkYtYLJVqGReVYEuEus7Y-tUV6jYDBW8OWb82ez4Vvkp1BYtR8D4ZX7kR4E8ojVusZkIVf8_Vd1ivRU5j543YuqLY8UG/s1600/mastertoiletshower.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before: Wall paper everywhere!</td></tr>
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First things first we had to remove the wall paper. Let me go on record saying I HATE WALL PAPER. Especially wall paper in bathrooms because the permeability of that paper even when scored is very little. My mom and I, then Jake and I scraped and scraped and scraped. After that was done we put a nice coat of paint on the walls. This is the same color as in the master bedroom and the half bath, Saddle Suede. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MdGDknL5jlO9HztYdE7izwbwWW9nNNrICV5zeq_nEYnhLzokFSIdFrWAekWZ9XW4GLFmhc7w97FPWHRxeJKdoyvdcDHdjBP3ndS2vWs-ZZ9AkK0paw_KnpWBUG62CKcJtm4Q4PgKpL9S/s1600/IMG_6930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MdGDknL5jlO9HztYdE7izwbwWW9nNNrICV5zeq_nEYnhLzokFSIdFrWAekWZ9XW4GLFmhc7w97FPWHRxeJKdoyvdcDHdjBP3ndS2vWs-ZZ9AkK0paw_KnpWBUG62CKcJtm4Q4PgKpL9S/s1600/IMG_6930.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I hate this wall paper. I'm so glad it is gone. </td></tr>
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We chose a very simple ceramic tile, we went with larger 18x18 tiles because they were cheaper than the 12x12 and we felt it make the space look a little larger and not so busy. <br />
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The vanity is the center piece of the room, I wanted something rustic and unique. We had this piece made by a young furniture maker in Kansas City. <a href="https://unruhfurniture.com/"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Unruh Furniture</span></strong></a> is located in Grandview and he does really, really nice work. We knew we wanted copper sinks but want and need are two different things, fortunately for me I found copper sinks in the <a href="http://www.nrsworld.com/nrs/round-copper-sink-with-stars-115052"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">National Ropers Supply</span></strong></a> catalog...more fortunately for me they were significantly cheaper than what was at Menards or other online places, plus I got my 10% USTRC Gold Plus discount. We used resin on the top of the wood cabinet as well to seal the wood and protect from water. We also framed out the stock mirror in the bathroom, it elevates it so much and makes it look like an expensive framed mirror when we used about $10 worth of trim that we stained. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHi6bc80NaDaI6mu_Jej_yNxZeEm86bxYm0L58qbPrFGexXcdRklFiR1iVKBoXfFV9_EIkMkZEHEf_do7t1vx6zzFuOC9EP5q_Foeo1U7YQuGFXmlkFHrTT27kUk88hkVRHe05EM7s6DU/s1600/IMG_1206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHi6bc80NaDaI6mu_Jej_yNxZeEm86bxYm0L58qbPrFGexXcdRklFiR1iVKBoXfFV9_EIkMkZEHEf_do7t1vx6zzFuOC9EP5q_Foeo1U7YQuGFXmlkFHrTT27kUk88hkVRHe05EM7s6DU/s1600/IMG_1206.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is so far my favorite piece that we have added to the house. </td></tr>
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The faucets were from Lowes, which are the same style as the faucet in the half bath. You might ask why I have the same faucet style in two places, well for one I love the faucet and secondly I saw a faucet just like that in the Hotel Phillips when I was in college and told myself when I ever got to remodel a house I wanted that faucet and fortunately for me I am spoiled and I got my faucets. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_5AE4c2rD8YFxp8XXKRZP2ZCa_IW8ZDjl3fsx_mZlASYN1izOSldUUIVowWC_HmcDPJSGw4vZJJyna4JSs8l2l_Z-kRQ-zR9Y9U9o3cKEflRpUmvMi2jCoDyzELz3URtybHkLkJ3X0KT/s1600/IMG_1207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_5AE4c2rD8YFxp8XXKRZP2ZCa_IW8ZDjl3fsx_mZlASYN1izOSldUUIVowWC_HmcDPJSGw4vZJJyna4JSs8l2l_Z-kRQ-zR9Y9U9o3cKEflRpUmvMi2jCoDyzELz3URtybHkLkJ3X0KT/s1600/IMG_1207.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The light fixtures are simple but much better than the original. <br />
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The finishing touches were to frame out the showers, add tin to the walls and paint and distress the medicine cabinets. The shower curtain I had at my previous town home and we got the towel hooks from <a href="http://www.rods.com/barbwire-bath-accessories.html"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Rod's Western Wear</span></strong></a>, I believe the are called robe hooks. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSabHbt3ZtQfqIdM7KsSLIdv1VfqWBPIvYnGLLjAM3J3Y4tHiRP2Qq0KiHQWZAYudge-9pyTQEt1VWyHJVFo1Y2fvgjowwx8nT-xlcCQmIsLbSlrl05W6P3Di_wGQI-DYdY3S033NeoZy/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSabHbt3ZtQfqIdM7KsSLIdv1VfqWBPIvYnGLLjAM3J3Y4tHiRP2Qq0KiHQWZAYudge-9pyTQEt1VWyHJVFo1Y2fvgjowwx8nT-xlcCQmIsLbSlrl05W6P3Di_wGQI-DYdY3S033NeoZy/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We treated our tin with a spray-on poly just to prevent the rust from rubbing off. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjnj9brvqGAMV51yiG_lp5VmKQHZ7qlXQxylW3zR-mJSKUVWaAEyTGqpp-yICj8Gy6Sg6egnxlNQtijyHbjUIdpEtmo9OWm-8MRAON_V79GMjW6ZNoL41nJb3jpxHtmNvNuB0LtL1S-bCt/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjnj9brvqGAMV51yiG_lp5VmKQHZ7qlXQxylW3zR-mJSKUVWaAEyTGqpp-yICj8Gy6Sg6egnxlNQtijyHbjUIdpEtmo9OWm-8MRAON_V79GMjW6ZNoL41nJb3jpxHtmNvNuB0LtL1S-bCt/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh hey look, we added a dog too. I forgot that addition!</td></tr>
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<br />
Now the all important resource list...if you have any questions about where anything came from, just let me know! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wdU-OQ6mv40ybup-QWLHWi-EiJhVmwIulwSdtxj20d7ndxcMjtVDQUs3XimudPJyTKs9ad0isxW2zI77XA208Hrshru1XFFKrJJZsRvMf16aZmxNCSYc6Q9udziL2AS_4zv4PlRTtrpr/s1600/Master+bath+resource+list.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wdU-OQ6mv40ybup-QWLHWi-EiJhVmwIulwSdtxj20d7ndxcMjtVDQUs3XimudPJyTKs9ad0isxW2zI77XA208Hrshru1XFFKrJJZsRvMf16aZmxNCSYc6Q9udziL2AS_4zv4PlRTtrpr/s1600/Master+bath+resource+list.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-62050851081064500522014-09-06T10:41:00.002-05:002014-09-06T10:41:12.421-05:00Shredding Chicken...Super exciting title I know...Shredding Chicken, but hey I have something here that will prevent you from having burned fingers and a steamy face from shredding chicken with your fingers or two forks. I did see this on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/macklin/"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Pinteres</span></strong></a>t but had to try it for myself to see if it worked, and it did!<br />
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Take your warm chicken, I wouldn't do it hot straight out of the oven, drop it in your stand mixer with the paddle attachment and turn on low...after 10-20 seconds you will think, that girl is completely crazy...the airport air has gotten to her and this isn't doing anything, then you will see it start to break apart and shred. As the chicken starts to break apart a little then you can turn it up and let it truly shred it apart. and then you get this...1 minute later. AMAZING. <br />
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I usually shred up some chicken and put it in the freezer and have it in case I want to make soup or enchiladas as some point, saves me so much time. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCiclU9w2r7w_fEjr_gqIYyig4k1tuFZ_xpOhNSH7u_mTD3UsNqkWckX1wtK-m2KwUSypgVEAmbKwfb49aTXFauqJFCxo400hK_Q1PVebUg0rtW2V5oEFtdz6xtxRoDsgxamnp3ckFLne/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCiclU9w2r7w_fEjr_gqIYyig4k1tuFZ_xpOhNSH7u_mTD3UsNqkWckX1wtK-m2KwUSypgVEAmbKwfb49aTXFauqJFCxo400hK_Q1PVebUg0rtW2V5oEFtdz6xtxRoDsgxamnp3ckFLne/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It looks like this in about a minute! This was 2 average sized chicken breasts. I would recommend doing them 2 at a time. </td></tr>
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TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-46118266703071254772014-09-02T16:35:00.001-05:002014-09-02T16:35:36.782-05:00House Remodel - Half BathRancho Not So Grande is taking shape! Well we are finally living upstairs, we have been in the house a year now and the remodel process has taken longer than we both thought, but the best news is that our house is going to be exactly how we wanted it...rustic, western, repurposed and comfortable. I think that a lot of people forget that last one when they are remodeling or working on their houses...if you can't live in it comfortably then what is the purpose of having it? <br />
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So here is the first part of the house we are sharing. Our half bath is a very small space, it is right inside the garage entrance hallway and has enough space for a sink and toilet, which I guess is all you need in a half bath. When we moved in the half bath was functional but just dated, as was a lot of the house. Our house was built in 1990 and since the previous owners hadn't lived in the house for the last 10 years there hadn't been a lot of upgrades, but the nice part is that the house was built right when they built it so cosmetic changes were all we have had to make and those were just for personal preference. So anyway back to the half bath...I hated the sink and felt that the oak vanity was nice but it was a lot of oak...hardwood floors, trim and vanity so our solution was pretty easy:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Z7rdp8JLB_8F5GuwBzK18FK1GHY9mBY5w-A6nT_JpPIF9-HNcu6ReVyJ2S8YOnHSMIqj1_aIto8fayXhguUB_Fpx_TdMvgU6G7cm8jz8FpSQVRpb-tFchXd8v2FK3jc9QOhyphenhyphenVx28dwMi/s1600/halfbath.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Z7rdp8JLB_8F5GuwBzK18FK1GHY9mBY5w-A6nT_JpPIF9-HNcu6ReVyJ2S8YOnHSMIqj1_aIto8fayXhguUB_Fpx_TdMvgU6G7cm8jz8FpSQVRpb-tFchXd8v2FK3jc9QOhyphenhyphenVx28dwMi/s1600/halfbath.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<ol>
<li>Remove and replace the vanity top and sink/faucet</li>
<li>Update the light fixture and mirror</li>
<li>Upcycle the existing vanity</li>
<li>Update vanity hardware</li>
<li>Paint the walls</li>
<li>Replace the toilet</li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRrULjUOsWKUwGw8eTFxHMr-LRFLpvEx_1EW-Bgxc0ZzF2TOQDOon0E8I28rU1Rr7wm1hzmPqiTFf3R63bw637svFzPtr-UV2ev1eTRmFIuP8Y3z5X6ROWOqEhih3syhXVz_XaII8PCNn/s1600/IMG_1200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRrULjUOsWKUwGw8eTFxHMr-LRFLpvEx_1EW-Bgxc0ZzF2TOQDOon0E8I28rU1Rr7wm1hzmPqiTFf3R63bw637svFzPtr-UV2ev1eTRmFIuP8Y3z5X6ROWOqEhih3syhXVz_XaII8PCNn/s1600/IMG_1200.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2vGKX1gW25Zw0wwoJHDt_YG2jjlyvKkv_sOn1ZTnl8js3JNGYsRam72VGdLlGchkX6GKkmnvmQxNhIL2gK3O4FcIjnzZ2huUaOKSvp35m4Sd1VGG8F1R3OoNzzrsfyNmeNOZPi9wtt0j/s1600/IMG_1201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2vGKX1gW25Zw0wwoJHDt_YG2jjlyvKkv_sOn1ZTnl8js3JNGYsRam72VGdLlGchkX6GKkmnvmQxNhIL2gK3O4FcIjnzZ2huUaOKSvp35m4Sd1VGG8F1R3OoNzzrsfyNmeNOZPi9wtt0j/s1600/IMG_1201.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZeqlhEpDAhCvGqHR8M0Xt5s_bsR2cVDB6K_6aC6jeop6QFs6In8p9bLSm9yvcw8l4X10gXuPbuNqtil79Z_JrcJG5orK194u43RtN-D1yjPPuA958d1gVbxxzXNuco_uPBdPtI2tOEwe/s1600/IMG_1202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZeqlhEpDAhCvGqHR8M0Xt5s_bsR2cVDB6K_6aC6jeop6QFs6In8p9bLSm9yvcw8l4X10gXuPbuNqtil79Z_JrcJG5orK194u43RtN-D1yjPPuA958d1gVbxxzXNuco_uPBdPtI2tOEwe/s1600/IMG_1202.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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Starting with the paint we used a nice darker tan called Saddle Suede, which is the same color we used in the master bedroom and master bathroom. I removed the hardware from the vanity and removed the doors and drawer fronts. I rough sanded the wood and used the same color of red we used on our accent wall in the great room to dry brush on some color so you can still see the grain of the wood through the paint. After the paint dried I lightly sanded (with the grain) the edges of the doors and places where natural wear would occur then I used a sock to rub on a dark stain which I rubbed off to create a worn look. We reinstalled the doors and added conchos for the drawer pulls. There are kits you can buy for around $10/6-10 that can turn any concho into a drawer pull. <br />
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To replace the vanity top we reused our old decking boards and Jake made it custom to fit the space, I poured resin epoxy on it (3x coats) to give it a smooth finish and make it easier to clean and we trimmed out the top. A lot of people are scared of the resin and if you read the instructions you will understand why. I presonally didn't have any problems with mine not mixing or setting up right. We used a small hand held torch to pop the bubbles, again the instructions will help with this. We purchased a vessel sink and old pump style faucet and installed them into the new vanity top. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyWJx8wFXNqf6BdQq42d2GoOLha6nZcDFJtGOXpixKmy4w92jW0xcrFo9Svb4swQsuseM0YGFTaAuqsAXgjm2UkMMRhPh8P-ckkoUgq7G0VvvsTPM1-9Y-VC6yiFnqL6xEgx2HrE4T0vbs/s1600/ry=400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyWJx8wFXNqf6BdQq42d2GoOLha6nZcDFJtGOXpixKmy4w92jW0xcrFo9Svb4swQsuseM0YGFTaAuqsAXgjm2UkMMRhPh8P-ckkoUgq7G0VvvsTPM1-9Y-VC6yiFnqL6xEgx2HrE4T0vbs/s1600/ry=400.jpg" height="232" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what the vanity top looks like up close without the facet and sink on it. <br />
I will say, I do NOT recommend taping off the wall before you pour the resin on<br />
because the reality is that the resin will level itself off on the wall and if you do<br />
what I did then the painters tape will be stuck to your wall and you will<br />
be required to trim out the top of your boards. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The light above the mirror is an outdoor barn light purchased from Lowes. The problem is that the light goes directly onto the sink and left the toilet area a little dark so we opted to add a light/vent fan combo above the toilet to replace the vent fan that was there, sorry I don't have a picture of that it just isn't that exciting. But I love my barn light, plus it was super cheap as compared to a lighting store. <br />
<br />
The mirror and towel bar are both from Hobby Lobby. The mirror is 5-6 years old but the towel bar I purchased this winter. This total remodel ran around $500 with the sink, faucet, toilet and bathroom fan taking up the bulk of that budget. I've included a resource list below, I often get asked where did you get that...so here you go. Everything except the mirror was purchased within the past year. <br />
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<br />TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-7704662729922191822014-05-16T08:08:00.001-05:002014-05-16T08:08:23.286-05:00Balsamic Glazed Brussels SproutsI've never been a vegetable fan, honestly up until 4 years ago I considered my self a meat, potatoes and chocolate girl, but when I started eating healthier I started trying more veggies and have discovered the brussel sprout. <div><br></div><div>Now I started to shred brussel sprouts and mix with chopped kale for a new twist on salad, and now I'm on to roasting and sauting. </div><div><br></div><div>The last two nights I've made Balsamic Glazed Brussel Sprouts, so simple so easy. The trick is to use enough olive oil to keep the pan moist as the sprouts soak up a lot of oil. </div><div><br></div><div>I prep my sprouts by peeling the outer leaves off and trimming the bottoms and then cutting them in half or quarters depending on the size of the sprouts. On medium heat, sauté the sprouts for 8-10 minutes keeping them moving in the pan and adding oil as needed. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmADKbgHDexj2Tbc6CI3YEzXljgojFkSAL635e1lQP6JmlPJ2abiQ7cH2Eu0w8GM5qoOg-F-uQdvVcWNz4y9K7CiAxs2dHQzH4ggSGfTnXq32kazNzxDeN1Pd9J5K36JZXrOdsFLlHZ5gP/s640/blogger-image-1020543835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmADKbgHDexj2Tbc6CI3YEzXljgojFkSAL635e1lQP6JmlPJ2abiQ7cH2Eu0w8GM5qoOg-F-uQdvVcWNz4y9K7CiAxs2dHQzH4ggSGfTnXq32kazNzxDeN1Pd9J5K36JZXrOdsFLlHZ5gP/s640/blogger-image-1020543835.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Once the sprouts start showing some color add a small amount of Better Than Bullion ham flavoring and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes. Why would I use the Ham flavoring you might ask? Because it tastes like bacon without the bacon calories. (Sorry bacon for cheating on you) My mom has used this trick for years with green beans. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJ5dg0lMFaEgjDvIc2XzJKlgNlCRIrRHyqnbW25HBBNKHDurZ3VRnI2E_qT8WHcf23YiwDDJEh22mKKf_VmM5RE3-Fe_s-lUvbVtV3RAoyYgdNtzUB3aCA8iUtMTWp3Jz8_3BaEr8oFYq/s640/blogger-image-1480421200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJ5dg0lMFaEgjDvIc2XzJKlgNlCRIrRHyqnbW25HBBNKHDurZ3VRnI2E_qT8WHcf23YiwDDJEh22mKKf_VmM5RE3-Fe_s-lUvbVtV3RAoyYgdNtzUB3aCA8iUtMTWp3Jz8_3BaEr8oFYq/s640/blogger-image-1480421200.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Salt lightly and serve! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpCsERpbrV-VoBRL1sXqruvwrrCefmdWvpoXJsk0HCRCbATGlp3PHlsEFPazKcDcX8PE9xyTJ0YftPEN75fOXoqqDKpwq6IO1N_c4xtl12ibxzjrmyREdNuUL8KLYs1ju6WMECwYzKTfL/s640/blogger-image-1637650230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpCsERpbrV-VoBRL1sXqruvwrrCefmdWvpoXJsk0HCRCbATGlp3PHlsEFPazKcDcX8PE9xyTJ0YftPEN75fOXoqqDKpwq6IO1N_c4xtl12ibxzjrmyREdNuUL8KLYs1ju6WMECwYzKTfL/s640/blogger-image-1637650230.jpg"></a></div><br></div>TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-44086190421019582712014-05-14T08:53:00.000-05:002014-05-14T08:53:24.492-05:00Upside Down Cinnamon Apple Coffee Cake - Pinterest RecipeWe had a breakfast celebration on Mother's Day since it is also Graduation Day for many schools around us. I made a couple of different Pinterest Recipes, all of which turned out really great but the one I want to tell you all about specifically because it was tasty and ridculously simple is the <a href="http://www.ladybehindthecurtain.com/upside-down-cinnamon-apple-coffee-cake/"><span style="color: magenta;"><strong>Upside Down Cinnamon Apple Coffee Cake</strong></span></a> from <a href="http://www.ladybehindthecurtain.com/"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">The Lady Behind the Curtain</span></strong></a>. Yes it is a mouthful, but sooooo good and so easy because you use a can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls as the dough, no dough making necessary!<br />
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I modified the recipie a little becuase well I forgot the pecans in the gooey bowl of goodness so when I inverted the cake onto a plate I sprinkled the pecans on there and they stuck to the yumminess and no one was the wiser. <br />
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Here is the exact recipe from The Lady Behind the Curtain: <br />
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<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-ingredients">
Ingredients</div>
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" itemprop="ingredients">1-1/2 cups apples, chopped and peeled</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" itemprop="ingredients">1 can (12.4 ounce) <a class="ingredient-link" href="http://www.pillsbury.com/" target="_blank">Pillsbury cinnamon rolls</a> with icing</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" itemprop="ingredients">1/2 cup pecan halves or pieces</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" itemprop="ingredients">2 tablespoons butter, melted</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" itemprop="ingredients">1/3 cup packed brown sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5" itemprop="ingredients">2 tablespoons corn syrup</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" itemprop="ingredients"></li>
</ul>
<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-instructions">
Instructions</div>
<ol class="instructions" id="zlrecipe-instructions-list">
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Heat oven to 350 degrees. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Spray 9-inch glass pie plate with cooking spray. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Spread 1 cup of the apples in pie plate.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Separate dough into 8 rolls. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Cut each roll into quarters; place in large bowl. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-5" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Add remaining 1/2 cup apples and pecans.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-6" itemprop="recipeInstructions">In small bowl, mix butter, brown sugar and corn syrup until well blended. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-7" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Add brown sugar mixture to dough mixture; toss gently to combine. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-8" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Spoon mixture over apples in pan.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-9" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Bake 28 to 38 minutes or until deep golden brown. Cool 5 minutes. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-10" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Invert onto serving platter.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-11" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Remove lid from icing. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-12" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Microwave icing on high 10 to 15 seconds or until drizzling consistency. </li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-13" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Drizzle over warm coffee cake. Serve warm. </li>
</ol>
<div class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
</div>
<div class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
In addition to the Upside Down Cinnamon Apple Coffee Cake we had <a href="http://www.guidekitchen.com/2013/11/stuffed-breakfast-bubble-biscuits.html"><span style="color: magenta;"><strong>Stuffed Breakfast Bubble Biscuits</strong></span></a> with homemade Sausage Gravy, <a href="http://www.jessieweaver.net/2012/09/green-chile-egg-bake/"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Green Chile Egg Bake</span></strong></a> (which Jake and I have all the time) and a fresh fruit salad. It was a great way to celebrate Mother's Day with my mom, sister-in-law, grandma and aunt. </div>
TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-878612580268709198.post-69295002305869683612014-05-09T03:38:00.001-05:002014-05-09T03:38:36.261-05:00DIY Canvas ArtI love my own art work, partially because I just don't think that I have the appropriate funds to purchase the art work which my tastes desire...why do I like pretty, expensive things???? Plus I can also select my own color pallets. This particular design is a knock-off of the ❤️ Wyoming promotion. <div><br></div><div>Canvas is so easy to work with and anymore you can find them in a million different sizes and shapes and there are some companies that will even customize a size for you. This is a stock size 12x12 that I bought in a 2-pack from Hobby Lobby, using my 40% off discount coupon in my handy dandy Hobby Lobby app it was about $3 per canvas. </div><div><br></div><div>I started by finding the font I wanted to use and locating a bucking horse silhouette. I printed them out on adhesive paper and cut them out. I highly recommend using a hard surface and exacto knife to cut out the horse with all the detail. If you are way cooler than me and have one of those cool cutting machines yes that is way better than scissors and an exacto and I'm jealous. </div><div><br></div><div>Then prep your canvas. I used a nice neutral color, it is actually called Saddle by Behr and painted the entire surface including the edges. Let that dry completely then position and adhere the stickers on the canvas. Using a sponge brush, dry brush the accent color onto the canvas using short strokes to allow for the original paint color to show through the strokes. Start around<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> the stickers paint outward from the stickers to prevent bleeding around the edges, then expand out to the entire canvas. Be sparing around the edges so you can create a worn look with stain later. This red color is I believe Barn Red, a Martha Stewart color from Lowes. It is the same color as my accent wall in my living room and I love the color. Remove the stickers while the paint is still wet/tacky. Let completely dry. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The next step is optional and can be done different ways. I wanted to add and aged look to the canvas so I used an old rag dipped lightly in a stain, this is Provincial by Minwax, and I lightly covered the entire canvas focusing on the edges and areas where the stickers were. Not when you put stain on top of paint on a canvas it doesn't wipe off like it would on wood so be very careful to not go too crazy you can alway add more if you want it darker. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Now to finish the look I used decorator or upholstery nails and have the piece a more finished look. I like to use a rubber hammer so you don't damage the nail head but unfortunately I couldn't find one this day so I just put a clean dry cloth over the nail before I hammered it into the wood frame of the canvas. I've also learned that it is best to make a small nail hole as a pilot hole, the upholstery nails go in so much easier that way. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1JlxAyO8_bghD6tVHO2erYLEKMv42ZPghYBm5oUkCKUKZgUFOclRIXPDvLS6bvAITGRrP_47w7cBeA3MhWSfIJEAGV2mNnjMR7zFqALjDf3_1NMBY6NwQgSFJmSkezR2BnIBtohJKSix/s640/blogger-image--1698485762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1JlxAyO8_bghD6tVHO2erYLEKMv42ZPghYBm5oUkCKUKZgUFOclRIXPDvLS6bvAITGRrP_47w7cBeA3MhWSfIJEAGV2mNnjMR7zFqALjDf3_1NMBY6NwQgSFJmSkezR2BnIBtohJKSix/s640/blogger-image--1698485762.jpg"></a></div> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Hope you love it as much as I do! </span></div>TheTravelingCowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335860786008134149noreply@blogger.com0