Going Green!

Well even though it's still Winter-time, Spring is definitely in the air in our home!  I'm ready to crack open a window and lighten up the decor.....oh, and watch the Chicago Cubs Spring training games!

I just changed my mantel to look a littler greener.  I got this idea via a few Pinterest boards.  I took a foam (flat) ring from Michaels, sprayed it with Elmer's spray adhesive and some stuck on some Spanish moss.  Please be warned the moss is very messy!  I spread out two junky towels on the floor for my workspace. 

I then inserted some flowers, nest and eggs I had on hand.  What do you think?  I don't feel like I'm completely finished with the mantel.  I still have a few ideas swirling around in my head but that can be another blog!

How about a green spinach shake?  I found this recipe from a blog via Pinterest (are you noticing a pattern here?). Spinach Shake Recipe

This is a recipe you can play with.  I used strawberries instead of the bananas and omitted the peanut butter.  I then tried blueberries.  I also used plain greek yogurt to up the protein and lower the carbs.  I sprinkled just a little Splenda to sweeten it up.  I really liked it and I felt full afterwards!

Don't let the color deter you!  It's really good!

And lastly, a little snapshot of a hat I recently made for a customer.  Her daughter is expecting her first grandchild and the baby shower is Dr. Suess themed... I can't wait for her to see it!

Happy Heart Day!...and a broccoli side dish your kids will love!

So I wanted to show you my crafty Valentine's Day mantel.  Most everything I quickly made due to lack of Valentine's decorations.  I've never gone all out on this holiday.  Maybe it's because my husband has time and time again said it's a Hallmark holiday?  Anyway - I dug out my decoupage and scrapbook paper and went to town!  What do you think?

I found a naked wood shadow box at Michael's, a scrapbook paper I really liked and a naked wood 'love' sign.  I spray painted the wood pieces Americana red and decoupaged the paper to the inside of the box.  Later I adhered the 'love' sign to the box.  I may take the 'love' sign off and use this box for a Christmas piece?  Hmmmmm....

Next I found another scrapbook paper I thought was pretty.  I cut those into hearts, hole-punched around the edge and crocheted a red border.  Hung with mini suction cups onto the mirror and it certainly filled that empty space!

Next I grabbed my old faithful sticks and hung some crocheted hearts from them. 

I have a very quick recipe for your kiddos!  These are broccoli cheddar bites and they go together like meatballs or meatloaf.  My kids are never excited when they see a veggie on their plates, but they loved these!  Your might too!

Broccoli Cheddar Bites

1 package of frozen chopped broccoli (I used the Steamers bag)

1 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese (shredded)

3 eggs

Salt and Pepper

1 cup seasoned bread crumbs



Mix all together and form into patties. Bake on parchment paper at 375 degrees for 25 minutes, turning over halfway.  Enjoy!

Every Ting Going to be Alroght Mon!

I have been on a tam kick for hats!  I don't know exactly why, but that is the only order I'm getting lately.  Maybe everyone is dreaming of warmer weather right now?  Regardless, I have a couple of hats ready to go and another listing in my Etsy shop for you to custom pick your color!  Stop by and take a look!  (The following post shows my current hats.)

Knitted Knotions on Etsy

Here is an EXTREMELY quick crock pot recipe that was shared by a friend.....thank you Jenny.  She said her husband AND kids both loved it but I never had that happen to me.  Someone is always disappointed in Mom's dinner.  But this one really was a hit!  You won't regret making this dish....I promise!

Lemon Italian Chicken

1 lb. Chicken Breast
1 packet of Good Seasonings (Italian)
2 Tblsp Butter
1/2 lemon

First put butter in crock.  Now add chicken, sprinkle with seasoning and squeeze lemon juice on top.  Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.  You might want to double this recipe!  I did and I had nothing left feeding four people.  (I can't eat chicken....but that's another story) Serve over rice.  Enjoy!