SouthernTraditionsBoutique

A Week of Easy Meals......

2012-01-30T08:20:00.000-08:00

Here are some easy-peasy meals to make this week for your family.

Monday: Cheesy Potato Soup , bread or rolls
Tuesday: Chicken and Dressing (this is from Aunt Bea's Mayberry Cookbook, I'll post the recipe in a different thread)
Wednesday: Beef Stroganoff, green beans, salad
Thursday: Breakfast for Dinner! I love this :) 'specially with homemade skillet biscuits!
Friday: Chili (Carol Shelby's box mix), corn bread (Jiffy box)

Beef Stroganoff recipe:
2 lbs ground beef
1 can cream of mushroom soup
8 oz sour cream
1/4 cup milk
salt and pepper
1 bag of egg noodles

Brown ground beef in skillet. When beef is done, drain fat. Add soup and sour cream. Stir. Add the 1/4 cup milk and salt and pepper (to your taste).
Cook egg noodles according to directions.
Top egg noodles with beef stroganoff and serve with your favorite side dish!
Sometimes when I don't have the egg noodles on hand, I use toast. Then it turns into S.O.S. :) The kids and hubby love this and it's super easy and very quick to make. Great for those nights when time of of the essence!

What are you having for dinner this week?

PS. As I post this, I have the Cheesy Potato Soup in the Crock Pot and it smells AH-MAZING!!! I'll let you know how it turns out ;)

Repurposing.......Frames

2012-01-28T17:51:00.000-08:00

I love frames!

Lately I've been looking for frames at yard sales and thrift stores. You can leave them as is or paint them. There's so many wonderful things you can put in them as well, or you can leave them blank!

I've seen pretty pictures of walls decked out in just the skeleton of the frame, all painted the same color. Some of them are done in the same color hue, or completely different. Above a mantel, going up the stairway, greeting you in the foyer, the ideas are endless!

About a year ago I got these frames for $2.00 each. They are BIG, and I love the color. Even the black and white romantic pictures are very nice, just not my style. I got them because I knew there was something I could put in them!

All I did was take off the back of the frame (I have to admit, they were kind of a pain in the rear, but after taking off the tape and bending back the staples, I eventually got to the picture, WHEW!). I didn't realize that the picture and mat were one in the same, but no problem! The 12" x 12" piece of scrapbook paper fit just perfectly over the picture. All I used was tape on the backside of the paper to make sure it didn't go anywhere.

Next, I had already decided what pictures I wanted of the kids. I printed both of them on regular 8x10 photo paper (did you know that Dollar Tree has photo paper? It really is good and so much cheaper!). I have a photo editing program that changed the color photos to the sepia ones that you see, which I thought matched the damask paper perfectly! I did an 8" square of the photo that allowed 2" on each side, which made a nice mat around the photo.

Then I placed it back into the frame and VOILA! New custom-looking photo frames for a FRACTION of what it would cost at the big craft/frame stores. I think all total, I spent $6.00 for this project! They are hanging up in our bedroom and look lovely with our newly painted "Caffe colache" walls.

Try your hand at reframing something. It really does give new life and leaves these things out of the landfills! :) ENJOY!This post is part of the Link-Up Party over at Craft-O-Maniac. Ya'll stop on by and see what else everyone has come up with. There are some great ideas :)

CraftOManiac blog and link-up party

2012-01-09T07:12:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone!Whew, now that the Christmas rush of orders is done, and I've gotten my head back in the game, I'm going to try and start posting some really cool things that I find. While I was surfing the 'net last week, I happened upon this great website called Craft-O-Maniac . Jen does a great job of offering advice, showing how she decorates and also has a Link-Up party on Monday's too! I've linked up this week with my Note Board that I repurposed for Ms. M's room. Y'all be sure to stop by the link up party to see all of the other crafty people out there! I've already gotten some great ideas on what to make for our home, and they are pretty easy and cheap too! Enjoy!!!

Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals

2011-11-25T13:32:00.001-08:00

I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving and are full of Turkey and all the trimmin's! Enjoying those leftovers yet? LOL!

I've always wanted to do a Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale in my SouthernTraditions2 Etsy Store, but haven't been able to figure out what kind of discount I could give you and still not shoot myself in the foot :-) Well, I think I've come up with something that will help you out a little and still be "do-able" for me. What you can do, on order placed, AND PAID FOR, between Friday, November 25th and Monday, November 28th, take $5.00 off your order of $50.00 or more (amount BEFORE shipping). I can't do a coupon code, but I will refund the money back to your Paypal account. I know it's not much, but I know during this time that every little bit helps :)

Now, as for my Torrilynn123 Reusable Sandwich bag Store , use coupon code BLACKFRIDAY2011 for an additional 15% off your total order!

Ya'll come on by and see all the new CUTE Christmas Tee Appliques that I've been working on!

Be sure to take a look at these awesome Personalized Coasters too! Can be done in Collegiate fabrics/colors, kids themes, sorority or dorm room colors, Christmas colors, etc. These are perfect gifts for Teachers, Friends, InLaws, OutLaws (heehee), Secret Santa, you name it!

Enjoy your shopping weekend, everyone! Hope you get your list taken care of ;)

Enter to win 2 City Passes

2011-10-13T07:10:00.000-07:00

Enter HERE to win 2 City Passes for yourself and 2 for a friend. Contest ends later this evening, so hurry!

My family and I used these for Atlanta last year and just LOVED them! They are a great price and really do save you money! Some other great cities are Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York City.

Good Luck and let me know if you win! :)

Come and get your Turkey......

2011-10-13T06:49:00.000-07:00

Head on over to my FB fan page so you can get your very own Turkey Initial Tee.

This is a special price break for FB FANS ONLY! Be sure to LIKE my page so you can get in on the deal too! Special pricing expires Sunday, October 16th.

A few of my favorite things

2011-10-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

Daisy's in Olive Clutch Purse by Poppy Punch

Flour Sack Pillows by CatNapCottage

Mother's Day Wooden Plaque by Piccadilly Peddler

Recycled Ruffle Rose Sweater Pillow by That Funky Boutique

Do you have some favorite items too? Share them with us!

Fingerprint Friday ........ Blessings

2011-09-30T18:36:00.000-07:00

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of god
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of god
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of god
So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them?

I know I'm reposting a picture from the post below......but this just reminded me that I'm so thankful to be able to make and eat delicious food like this every day. God is so good! Be sure to take a look at Beki's Blog to see the other "Fingerprints" from today!

Banana Crumb Muffins, Oh my!

2011-09-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

As I was perusing allrecipes.com the other day, this recipe kinda jumped out at me and said "Make Me". So I did! :)

Not only do these muffins smell amazing while they're baking, they are completely awesome to eat as well. Oh yeah!
The crumb topping is really what makes this recipe. For some reason the crumb mixture sank into the middle of the muffin. But boy let me tell ya, that was probably the BEST part!

Ms. M loved them so much that she's begged me to make another batch. Just our luck that bananas are on sale this week!

RECIPE: Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 bananas, mashed
3/4 cup white sugar
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/3 cup butter, melted
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter

Directions
1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease 10 muffin cups, or line with muffin papers.
2.In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.
3.In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour and cinnamon. Cut in 1 tablespoon butter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Sprinkle topping over muffins.
4.Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean.
These are so moist and go great with your favorite cup o' joe or hot tea. Perfect for the cooler temps! It's supposed to be in the 40's for lows this weekend, so might need to whip up a batch of these! :) ENJOY!

New Layette set.....Dino Dudes

2011-09-25T06:26:00.000-07:00

I've always wanted to make a sweet little layette set for newborns, and finally got the chance to for a sweet customer.
Complete Towel Set (Click on the link)

I loved this Dino Dudes set, but I can make just about anything from all of the appliques that I have :-) Go HERE to see most of what I have.
Would you like to add just an appliqued bib? Then here's the listing for you:
Personalized Appliqued Bib (Click on the link)

We can also make the matching onesie to complete your set :) Almost wish my kids were young again so I could make more of these! Thanks so much for looking! Be sure to contact me if you'd like to have your very own set made.

Bleck.......

2011-09-20T18:08:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have those days (or weeks) when you get in a food rut?

Sure, I look at allrecipes.com, ThePioneerWoman.com and other foodie sites.
Love what they have on there, but do I feel like cooking it? No.

(Although this does look AH-MAZING!)
Cajun Chicken Pasta

Take a lookie HERE to see the recipe from The Pioneer Woman.

My poor family needs me to get out of this funk :)
No, they aren't going hungry, and they say my meals are great.

Is it just me?
I sometimes get in these "don't wanna's", but this one is lasting for a while.
I guess I should just enjoy not wanting to eat.
I am excercising, and have been told I look thinner.

Don't think these things will help loose weight, but they do look Scrumpdeliscious!
Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Muffins...YUMMO!

Go HERE to see this recipe, (courtesy of allrecipes.com).
Hmmmmm, maybe not wanting to eat is a good thing??? :)

What do you do when you get in a FOOD RUT?

Fingerprint Friday....Under HIS wings

2011-09-16T07:06:00.000-07:00

Psalm 57:1 "Have Mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed."

I love this photo (wish I would have taken it!). God truely surrounds us with His wings every day. What a comforting thought!
Be sure to take a look at Beki's The Rusted Chain blog to see other "Fingerprints".

New fall/Halloween appliques available

2011-08-29T11:17:00.001-07:00

I've been busy trying to get some samples done of my new Fall/Halloween appliques.

You have your choice of font for the initials. Will not be done on this type of orange dot, but one that is similar.

CUTE CUTE CUTE!!! Your choice of initial and name under it. I've got a super cute orange fabric with spiders that will be used for this. Can also do another color in solid if you'd like ;)

LOVE this! Comes with your choice of initial, then name underneath.

Who doesn't love Candy Corn? All I know is I need to stay away from the real thing this year, as I can eat a whole tub in one sitting! LOL! This sample is done in Tinkertoy font, but you can have your choice as well.

If you are interested in any of the above appliques, please leave a comment with your email addy and I'll get in touch with you for special pricing!

Feel free to go HERE too. I have a lot more appliques listed.

Fingerprint Friday...... Beauty

2011-08-26T06:43:00.001-07:00

This is something Beki, over at The Rusted Chain has been doing every Friday. This is a great way to end the business week and get ready for the weekend! Be sure to take a look at everyone elses "Fingerprints" too!

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them?

Had a visitor the other day. I loved watching this butterfly as she flitted from one zinnia to the next. It was hard to capture the simple beauty of this creature, but she finally rested enough for me to snap this picture.

Even though we as humans enjoy beautiful things, this scripture reminded me of what is truely important:

" Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your innerself, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in Gods sight". 1 Peter 3:3-4

The Rusted Chain Giveaway

2011-08-19T17:54:00.000-07:00

Beki, over at The Rusted Chain is having another giveaway! 2 Lucky people will win a $50.00 gift certificate over to her shop . there are SOOOOO many things I'd like, so I know I'd love to win!

Here are just a couple of samples of her newly listing pretties!

I still love and wear the earrings that she sent me a couple of years ago! Be sure to post back here if you're one of the winners!

Weekly Wednesday Meal Planner

2011-08-17T18:05:00.000-07:00

I do enjoy making meal plans, because most of the time, when they're made, we stick to them. :) I tried making them on Monday's, but I find that Wednesday's are probably better for me, since that's when the weekly sales come out and I make the meal plan from the meats that are on sale that week.

Are you ready, here we go..........

Wednesday ~ Leftovers (we had several that we needed to get rid of, I hate to throw food away!)
Thursday ~ Beef tips, rice and gravy
Friday ~ Sloppy Joes, home fries
Saturday ~ Beef Stroganoff, salad
Sunday ~ Italian Sausage with onions,bellpepper
Monday ~ Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe found HERE
Tuesday ~ Salmon patties, potato salad

What do you have planned this week?

Repurposing ~ Note board

2011-08-16T17:56:00.000-07:00

I really enjoy repurposing items when I have a chance. I like the fact that, most of the time, I can use stuff I already have around the house. Out of pocket expense is minimal, if that!

This is a cute little memo board that Ms. M got when she was around 8. She was into princess things back then, but since she's 10 going on 20, not so much anymore :) Her room is done in hot pink and black, so this TOTALLY DID NOT MATCH ANYMORE....oh my! Can't have that now can we?

All I did was cut off the ribbon first. (be sure to save it for later!)

I had this pretty fabric out in one of my totes. Ironed it nice and smooth, then cut it 2" bigger than the board.

I love my staple gun, so I love any excuse to use it! I just folded the fabric in
1", then folded it on top of the board, then WHAMO! Staple it in place. I did one side, then worked on the opposite side, pulling the fabric nice and taught.

Mitered the corners.......

I also used my glue gun and glued the fabric down too (this step is not necessary).

Added the ribbon back to the board. (just hot glued it down on the side)

Reattached the brads and VOILA~!

A brand new note board! This only took us about 30 minutes and now Ms. M has a new board to place all of her cool little notes and cards! She has one that is a longer/skinnier version too...... I guess we'll need to get another hotpink/black fabric to do that one :)

I hope you found this information useful! There is so much that I need to repurpose around the house, guess I should start making my "honey-me" list! Is there anything you've repurposed lately?

Hobby Lobby Coupon

2011-08-14T15:46:00.001-07:00

Go HERE to print your 40% off one item coupon from Hobby Lobby!

Needless to say, I love when they have this coupon :) Now, what to buy!!! Enjoy.

Fingerprint Friday.......Scary Face

2011-08-12T07:32:00.001-07:00

This is something Beki, over at The Rusted Chain has been doing every Friday. This is a great way to end the business week and get ready for the weekend! Be sure to take a look at everyone elses "Fingerprints" too!

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them?

We had a wonderful time over at Wild Adventures in Valdosta, GA this past weekend. I'm always a little bit of an over-protective Momma when it comes to things like this, but the kids had a BLAST! God was with us and we made wonderful memories.

I know this photo is a TAD over-exposed, but I love the fact that you can completely pick out Ms. M.....her wide mouth and everything (loving the contrast!!) Calm brother Big Poppa is next to her!

"Be still and know that I AM GOD...." Psalms 46:10
Have a blessed weekend :)

Jump up and slap someone Salsa

2011-08-09T06:21:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah, this stuff is THAT good! :)

I think our favorite thing when we go out to a Mexican restuarant is the chips and salsa. Well, look no further, you can now have the same thing at home, at a fraction of the "going out to eat" cost!

Ingredients:
2 1/2 cans of Rotel
20 oz can of tomatoes
1/2 onion ****(can't believe I forgot this the first time! lol)
1 jalapeno
1 clove garlic
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/3 cup fresh cilantro
1 tbsp salt
3 dashes of hot sauce

Combine all ingredients into a blender or Cuisnart. Pulse until all of the ingredients are incorporated and the consistency you like. Add a bag of Santita chips (these are $2.00 for a big bag) and VOILA!

Honestly, this is amazing, but even better if left for a day to blend all of the flavors. This recipe fills a 3 lb butter bowl!

Cost break down:
28 oz tomatoes $1.00
2 1/2 cans Rotel $1.74 (these go BOGO at Publix quite often)
Cilantro .22 (cost is .88 for the bunch, but only takes a little)
Jalapeno FREE (our son grew these last year and we froze them)
Lemon juice .10 (I just bought one of those plastic lemons)
hot sauce .02 (just guessing here! :) )
garlic .05 (?? )

Total: $3.13

I probably should figure out how many cups are in this batch, but it's never around long enough to find out.

Enjoy and let me know if you try this!

I love me some Cookie!

2011-08-07T16:10:00.000-07:00

Look at the new character that decided to show up on my STREET?

This is a new Hooded Towel that is available in my Store . Come on by and say HEY COOKIE!

We've been busy!

2011-08-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

WHEW! What a week, or two! It seems like this summer has slipped by so fast and the kids go back to school August 15th.....seriously? Already?

We've been taking a couple of last-minute vaca's......so much fun was had yesterday and today at Wild Adventures! I've got tons of pics to edit, so will post some as soon as they are done. I am exhausted, as the 115 degree HEAT INDEX about zapped me of all life :) Atleast we did the water park this morning, so we weren't as stinkin' hot all day like we were yesterday!

I will try and start posting atleast 2 recipes each week.....who can't resist a little helping hand in the kitchen, I know I'd love to have an extra or two.

Hope you all are having a great summer and hope that you are a little cooler than we are down in the south! Don't forget, post a comment, I love to read them :)

See ya Monday! God Bless!

Thought I'd leave you with a cool retro sign that I snapped a picture of (in a MOVING car too!) on one of our many trips up to Columbus, GA!

Thomas

2011-07-26T17:06:00.001-07:00

I think I've found my favorite applique tee (for now anywho!!!). I made this tee for a sweet little boy's train themed birthday party and love how it turned out ;) Take a peek over at my Monogram Store to see it and pricing info!!!

Leave a comment, let me know if you like this or what other kind of appliques you'd like ;)

Zinnia's.....so easy to grow

2011-07-24T16:44:00.001-07:00

This is a garden of Zinnia's that Ms. M has grown! I can honestly say that I've never had a flower so EASY PEASY to grow from seed.

We planted these one day in June, and within 5 days they had started to germinate. In about a month or so, these things have sprouted and GROWN!!!

Some are around 2' tall and have some of the prettiest colors. I love all of the layers of petals.

This variation have smaller "heads" than some of the Zinnia's, but are almost dainty and Oh-So-Pretty!

Isn't it amazing how God has come up with the millions of different flowers? What an Artist HE is, and I'm so happy to have been able to paint a canvas with just one of his awesome creations ;)

I've already gotten about 5 seeds from one of the flowers I dead-headed today, so we'll have a HUGE garden next year.

We also have some FREE Lantana (transplanted from the back yard) that I'm hoping will start to get big. I love having this little BUTTERFLY garden, just hope some of our friends will come by this fall! :)

Hope you all are having a BLESSED Sunday!

TONS of Giveaways......

2011-07-21T07:24:00.001-07:00

Good Morning!

There is a BIG BIG BIG giveaway going on over at Elle Dee Designs Facebook Page, including a Personalized KeyChain from me!!!

Ways to gain entries are pretty simple, just follow these steps:

First, you must LIKE Elle Dee Designs Facebook Page. Simple, right?

Then look over to the left side of the page, click where it says "1500 Fan Giveaway". Check.

Scroll down and see all that you can win! She has put up a photo album of photos too, so be sure to take a look at all the awesome prizes! Check check.

As you scroll down, you'll see HOW TO ENTER, then under that will have each way you can enter! If you like the item the sponsor is giving away, just click where it says DO IT:, then when you click, the I DID IT will turn green. Pretty ingenious!

Thanks Lani for asking me to participate! Don't forget to do the entries to win one of my Personalized Keychains!!!

A rainy day and homemade donuts.....

2011-07-16T14:33:00.001-07:00

I love the sound of rain. Makes me want to curl up in bed with warm pj's on, drinking a hot cup of coffee, and if you happen to have the ingredients for these little honey's, a plate full of homemade donuts!

What you'll need:
1 can of 10 count biscuits (or more)
1/2 bottle of vegetable oil
2 cups powdered sugar

First thing you need is a can of the small 10 count refridgerated biscuits (any brand will do, and they can be the regular or buttermilk style). We usually buy the
4 pack, as we need 2 cans for one batch around here ;-).

I use about 1/2 of a bottle of vegetable oil, pour in pan. Heat until oil is hot on medium high setting.

While you're waiting for the oil to heat up, take a bottle cap from a 2 liter Coke bottle (WILL ONLY WORK FROM A COKE BOTTLE!!!! Haa, Haa, just kidding! Any 2 liter bottle cap will work! :) )and press down in biscuit until it makes a hole.

Pour about 2 cups of powdered sugar in a shakeable bag or covered something-or-other.
When oil is hot enough, drop (very carefully!!!) cut donuts into oil. We can usually get about 4 in our pot. Wait until they are golden on the bottom, then flip. These usually don't take long, so have a couple of paper towels on a plate nearby to place the donuts on to drain for a minute or two before you transfer to the powdered sugar.

Voila! Here you have some pretty cheap, very delicious donuts made in a matter of minutes! Oh, and don't forget to make the donut holes too, just like the donuts :) Have you ever had these before? If not, make some and come back and let me know what you think!

Cheers to rainy days and donuts :)

New Collegiate Spa Wraps

2011-07-11T06:04:00.000-07:00

I made several of these for a sweet customer at the end of the school year and I wanted to share with you how they turned out! I'm hoping that the girls are getting ready to use them at college in a couple of weeks.

The towels were made for the college that the girls were going to. We have a Florida, FSU, Alabama, Georgia and a couple others :)

Go HERE to order one ;)

Happy 4th !!!!

2011-07-03T16:53:00.000-07:00

Here's wishing everyone a Blessed and Safe 4th of July!!!

"One Nation, UNDER GOD!!!"

Bread crumbs......on the cheap

2011-07-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

Do you purchase seasoned bread crumbs? I used to, but then a lightening bolt struck me one day and I figured I could make them myself! (OK, not a real lightening bolt, but a small40 watt bulb)

It came to me one day while I was making the kids sandwiches for school. I have always thrown away the "heels" of the bread and the crust (since my daughter doesn't seem to like them! {I know, spoiled right??!!}). I started keeping them in an 8x8 pan, inside the oven. They don't need a cover, since they are nice and safe from any creatures/critters. You ask yourself, "Haven't you left them in the oven while you preheated it for dinner?" Oh sure, but they do toast up quicker that way! LOL!

I've also done this with hotdog and hamburger buns that don't get eaten too.

Ms. M LOVES to help me with the "fun" part! I love my Cuisinart Food Processor! It makes is so stinkin' simple to make the crumbs, but before I got that, I did use a blender. Would also be fun to put them in a ziploc bag and take your frustrations out on them with a mallet or rolling pin...Ooooo, I like that idea! Just grind them down to the coarseness that you prefer. The Cuisinart makes the best powerder-y crumbs! I keep them in a tupperware container in the freezer.

I do use these quite a bit though. Probably the most in Salmon Patties (the kids BEG for these!). Just add 1 tsp. of an italian blend of spices to make italian bread crumbs. Would also be tasty to add lemon pepper seasoning for a fish fry, and a blend of mexican seasonings for a topping for mexican casserole.

I also have made Bread Crumb Cookies before. They don't sound too good, but they were AH-MAZING!!

BREAD CRUMB COOKIES

1 1/4c. flour
1 1/4c. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 c. Cocoa
1/2 c. milk
1 egg
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
2/3 c. melted shortening
2 c. bread crumbs

Sift together dry ingredients. Combine wet ingredients and add to dry mixture. add melted shortening and bread crumbs. Drop by spoonful onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake @ 350 for 15 minutes until done.........

Let me know if you make these! ENJOY :)

Fingerprint Friday........

2011-07-01T09:42:00.000-07:00

This is something Beki, over at The Rusted Chain has been doing every Friday. This is a great way to end the business week and get ready for the weekend! Be sure to take a look at everyone elses "Fingerprints" too!

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them?

Super awesome picture taken in Columbus, GA! I love the detail of the clock and architecture of the old building.

Time, very important and precious! We are not guaranteed another day, so be sure to take the time that we have been given and be good stewards of it.

Go QUICKLY!!!!

2011-06-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Go here to Downy's Facebook page and go QUICKLY!!! They are giving away 500,000 samples of the new Downy Unstoppable. I just got mine! YEA. A lot of times when they send you your sample, they also have high-dollar coupons with it as well.

Just got a full size bag of Tide Stain Release In-Wash Booster in the mail the other day! Also received a $2.00 off coupon that came with it. Will probably be good to stack with a Target Coupon someday soon!

Diary of a Fat Girl, Update #1

2011-06-27T19:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been ZUMBA-ING for 6 weeks now! I can honestly say this is probably the BEST excercise routine that I have actually WANTED to stick too! I really enjoy working out atleast 3 days a week, and do try to get atleast 4 days in if I can!! Yea Me!!! LOL!

I figured that I would "measure" in (of course, instead of "weigh"-in!) every month. I did do a little cheat on week #2 and measured my arms, just to see if this Zumba thing was actually working....and it was!) The first months results, if I do say so myself, were AH-MAZING! Drum roll please.....

A total of 6 1/2" inches ;)

Might not sound like much, and I do have a long way to go, but it's a great start!

Not quite sure when I'll actually take the plunge and have the courage to "weigh"-in, but maybe on week #8! :)

Please share any success stories you have, I'd love to hear them!

Fingerprint Friday........

2011-06-24T07:05:00.001-07:00

This is something Beki, over at The Rusted Chain has been doing every Friday, and I hope to help carry on the tradition!

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them?

Kids, Milk glass hobnail vases, vintage glass milk jug, and yes, a bright and sunny yellow tablecloth.

HHHmmmm, why do these things remind me of God? God has entrusted to me the upbringing and care of these AWESOME children! I'm FAAAARRRRR from being a perfect parent, but hopefully, when they get older, they'll understand that I did my best to make sure they had a close and personal relationship with their Savior!

Ok, I know, what in the world do the other things have to do with Fingerprint Friday? I guess it's just the beautiful simplicity of things from yester-year. God delights in the simple things, so why shouldn't we? And, who can't look at a cheerful yellow tablecloth and just smile? It makes me think of God's warm, tender arms stretching out to His children. We are so lucky to have a God of LOVE!!!

Stupid virus

2011-06-17T18:00:00.000-07:00

So sorry I haven't been on here lately. My computer decided to get a virus about 2 weeks ago, and I've spent most of my time trying to retrieve pictures, applique/font files the hard way and it's taken up most of my time.....I guess that's why it's so important to back up your files every so often!

Now with a new computer, I'm hopefully going to get the ball rolling again!

Hope you all have been enjoying the summer so far. Here in the South it's been extremely HOT and HUMID! Just got our first drenching rain on Wednesday, first in over a month. Hopefully the long drought it about over!

I will be sponsoring another giveaway starting next week. (Also need to get back intouch with my others winners too, since I lost all of that info as well!)

Have a very Happy Father's Day and remember all the things our "Dad's" do for us!

And the winner is......

2011-05-28T17:53:00.000-07:00

Random.org chose entry #123.....

kolpin said...
Favorite Reusable bag Store

kolpin
kolp****** at gmail dot com

Thanks so much to everyone for entering! Y'all keep coming back as I'll have more giveaways starting Memorial Day!

Band aids for FREE!

2011-05-24T05:03:00.001-07:00

Y'all head on over HERE to print a $1.00 off coupon. As you can see from the picture above, these Bandaids are on Roll Back for $1.00, making them FREE! :) These would be super cute to make the fabric covered bandaids!

Thanks Paul from I Heart the Mart!!!

New Coke coupon

2011-05-15T14:34:00.001-07:00

Be sure to HURRY and print this awesome COKE coupon HERE . It's $1.00 off the purchase of any 2 - 20ox Coca Cola products. I'm sure they'll go fast.

We were able to snag some completely awesome Coke deals at our local Piggly Wiggly today! We got 3 - 20pk Coke's for $2.27!!! They were on sale for $3.27 each, plus I had a $1.00 off coupon. That makes the Coke's only .11 per can! Needless to say we were pretty happy with this deal! :)

Join me....

2011-05-12T06:55:00.000-07:00

On my journey to get healthy :)

I don't know why I've put this off for so long. I've completely let myself go :( I've been looking at a picture of me taken at a family reunion a couple of years ago, and to be honest, I'm so ashamed of what I've become.

I guess when my Dear Husband and I bought a scale a couple of weeks ago, that was the end-all for me. I knew I had gained even more weight, but was so depressed when I actually got on the scale and saw that BIG NUMBER! ARG!

(Oh yea, that's me, the picture of the pig on the scale! LOL!)

Anywho, I'm starting my journey. Do you want to hop on for a ride as well?

I've done Zumba for Wii the last three days, and I can tell you, I'm already noticing a difference.

This is really a VERY FUN, LOW IMPACT, aerobic workout! I love the latin music and the ability to be able to do it AT HOME, with no one laughing at me (ah-hem, my children to be exact!). It's a good thing I can laugh at myself! I've started off gradually (beginner 20 minute workout, Zumba Class), but I've already advanced to the next beginner level (2, instead of 1! LOL!) on my next work out, which will be tomorrow. I've also walked 2 times at night (the long walk, 3.3 miles, will be tonight with a sweet friend of mine!), so I'm mixing things up a bit.

Yes, I'm eating, not starving! I've just made my mind up that the oooey, gooey chocolate and sweets that I love so much are going to be VERY FEW AND FAR BETWEEN! (Although, I'm being a good Mom and eating the two boxes of Whitman's that the kids gave me for Mother's Day, but only 2 pieces a day!) Yoplait yogurt and fruit have taken the place of them. And to be honest, the yogurt, with names like Key Lime Pie, Boston Creme pie, Strawberry Shortcake, Banana pudding (you get the picture), are such a good sweet in itself, that I don't feel like I'm missing out on much!

I weighed myself, took my measurements and have started a journal. Hopefully small baby-steps will help in my overall journey to a healthier me! Come along, we can be good company for each other !:)

Giveaway #2

2011-05-09T15:29:00.001-07:00

OK, I've NEVER given away one of these before, but here it is.....

You'll get your choice of towel color, ribbon, font and thread color for your very own HOODED TOWEL! :) (Don't worry, if you don't have a little one to give this too, I can do a BIG KID hooded towel or just a regular personalized bath towel :) )

******SORRY, THIS GIVEAWAY DOES NOT INCLUDE THE APPLIQUE FACE TOWELS (HELLO KITTY, ELMO) and is only available to those in the USA AND CANADA*****

Ways you can enter!

First and mandatory entry:Go to my SouthernTraditions2 Store and tell me what TOWEL you'd pick if you are the winner!

1 entry~ Subscribe to my newsletter over to the right (top of page)----->>>>>>

1 entry~ Become a FAN of my Facebook page (top of page) ------>>>>>>

1 entry~ Favorite my Southern Traditions2 store

1 entry~ Favorite my Reusable bag Store

1 entry~ Favorite anything in either store

1 entry~ Blog, Tweet, Link, Facebook about this giveaway (leave link so I can see too!)

1 entry~ There's a new item on ETSY for Facebook users, there's a LIKE button for stores and a LIKE button for each individual item too, LIKE one of these for 1 ENTRY EACH

5 entries~ Purchase ANYTHING in either of my stores!(Be sure to leave 5 individual entries when you do this!!!!!

Please be sure to leave a separate comment for EACH THING YOU DO! I want to be sure you get an entry for everything!!! This giveaway will end May 23rd at midnight CDT!

Good Luck everyone and thanks so much for looking!

Blessings,
Torri

PS Don't forget to also follow my blog on GFC for 1 entry too!

Salmon Patties.......

2011-05-07T05:26:00.001-07:00

Wish I would have taken a picture of these before they flew off the plate! My kids LOVE these and request them often! It's a super simple recipe....ENJOY!

Salmon Patties

1 Can of Salmon
1/2 cup bread crumbs (I make my own)
1 tbps parsley
1 tbps worchestershire
1 tsp crystal hot sauce
1/4 tsp pepper
1 egg

1 cup fine corn meal (or flour)
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup oil or 1/4 cup EVOO

Mix first 7 ingredients with your hands (my daughter LOVES to do this!), then pat out whatever size patty you would like. Refridgerate for 20 minutes. Dredge in cornmeal or flour, then cook in butter/oil over medium high heat for about 4 minutes on each side.

I usually serve these with french fries or tater tots and a salad. Great quick meal for those nights that you're on-the-go! Bon Appetite

And the winner is........

2011-05-04T04:04:00.000-07:00

Random.org chose entry #42....

Mariposa said...

I added reusable bags store to my favorites

Thanks so much to everyone who entered! I'll be having another giveaway starting this evening! Be sure to come back and enter.

Free Yoplait

2011-05-02T18:07:00.000-07:00

Go HERE to get your free cup of Yoplait Yogurt! Just fill out the form and you'll get your free coupon in the mail in a couple of weeks. I LOVE YOPLAIT! I'm really trying to watch my weight, so having all of these yummy flavors really helps. Even though I'm having "Red Velvet Cake", "Key Lime Pie", "Cinnamon Roll", it's only 100 calories and is a great 'tweener' snack! I don't feel so guilty and am getting something sweet to boot!

Fabric bandaids

2011-05-02T07:23:00.000-07:00

Look how cute these fabric band aids are! Toni over at Design Dazzle has a great idea for "chic-ing" up the tired ol' bandaids......I'd love to make these, and they are so simple. I think once I do tho', Miss M will mysteriously have cuts show up that need a cool new bandaid!

These would be great for our teen/tween girls with peace sign fabric on them.....what about Dr. Suess fabric for little ones? Super COOL sports fabrics for the boys? The possiblities are endless! Let me know if you do this and send me pictures!

New Shabby Chic flower tee

2011-05-01T20:14:00.000-07:00

Super cute Shabby Chic flower tee. Don't want these colors? No problem, just let me know what your looking for. Available in kids and adult sizes!

31 cent icecream

2011-04-26T18:15:00.001-07:00

What could be better? Join Baskin Robbins on Wednesday, April 27th from 5pm to 10pm for .31 icecream scoop night to honor America's Firefighters! Baskin Robbins will donate $100,000 to the NFFF (National Fallen Firefighters Foundation). Come out to your local Baskin Robbins and help this great cause!

What flavor is your favorite? I love the Mint Chocolate Chip!

Mermaids

2011-04-24T17:21:00.000-07:00

Super sweet Mermaids are swimming their way to ST2! Come on over and get yours :)
Hair / skin color is your choice. The Tail is done in a super cool Hot Pink BLING fabric (other BLING colors available). $22.00 plus shipping!

The Rusted Chain Giveaway

2011-04-21T07:25:00.000-07:00

Beki over at The Rusted Chain is giving away 2-$25.00 gift certificates to her store. Several simple ways to enter, so go on over and enter to win! I have :)

Do you....

2011-04-20T07:04:00.000-07:00

Make a meal plan for the week? My friend ERIN over at Mommy Octopus
does and I've been trying this for a couple of weeks. It seems to work pretty well, keeps us from going out to eat a lot, which, of course, is a huge money saver! :)

I will probably start making the meal plan on Wednesdays or Thursdays. (The sales brochures come out on Wednesday). Here's what I came up with this week:

Monday:
Jambalya (Zatarains mix, just added andouille to it! YUMMO!)
Green Beans
Rolls

Tuesday:
Country Ham
Grits
Fresh tomatoes (just added salt and pepper!)

Wednesday:

Tilapia (Grilled with lemon pepper and olive oil)
Roasted potatos
Salad

Thursday:
Eye of Round (Baked at 300 for 2 hrs, comes out Med. Rare)
Turnips
Rolls

Friday:
Baked Chicken
Scalloped potatos (Betty Crocker box, got these at Publix cheap!)

(Since the kids are off for Good Friday, we plan on taking them to an awesome restaurant in Blakely, GA for lunch, so we might still be stuffed from that, but the chicken will be good to pick at for a dinner!)

Saturday:
Leftovers, chicken salad sandwiches (from any leftover chicken from Friday)

Sunday:
Beef tips with rice
yellow squash with onions (sauteed in butter,salt,pepper)

What do you have planned this week? Do you have any websites that you get your recipes from?

First giveaway.....

2011-04-18T16:16:00.000-07:00

Ok, to start off this GRAND OPENING of my NEW blog, I'm giving away a set of REUSABLE SANDWICH BAGS from my Torrilynn123 Store.

You will get your choice of fabrics......

One Sandwich bag and Two (2) snack bags are up for grabs!

Kid friendly fabrics.....

One of the sets you can win!!!

Ways you can enter!

First and mandatory entry:Go to my Reusable bag store and tell me what fabric/bag you'd pick if you are the winner!

1 entry~ Subscribe to my newsletter over to the right ----->>>>>>

1 entry~ Become a FAN of my Facebook page (over there :-) ------>>>>>>)

1 entry~ Favorite my Reusable bag store

1 entry~ Favorite my Southern Traditions2 Store

1 entry~ Favorite anything in either store

1 entry~ Blog, Tweet, Link, Facebook about this giveaway (leave link so I can see too!)

1 entry~ There's a new item on ETSY, there's a LIKE button for stores and a LIKE button for each individual item too, LIKE one of these for 1 ENTRY EACH

5 entries~ Purchase ANYTHING in either of my stores!

Please be sure to leave a separate comment for EACH THING YOU DO! I want to be sure you get an entry for everything!!! This giveaway will end May 2nd at midnight CDT!

Good Luck everyone and thanks so much for looking!

Blessings,
Torri

PS Don't forget to also follow my blog on GFC for 1 entry too!

Beach Wear.....

2011-04-17T19:48:00.001-07:00

Ready for summer? This would be the perfect tee for your kids (adult sizes available too!). I love the brown/tan/blues from the sample tee, but can be done for our princesses in limes/pinks, black/hotpink, etc....you name it! :)

Check it out in my ETSY STORE .

Get ready for some giveaways! I'm going to have my GRAND OPENING starting April 18th with some awesome ideas and giveaways from me, and others as well!

International Delight Coupons

2011-04-15T05:42:00.000-07:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE flavored coffee creamers and it looks like International Delight has two new flavors to try, Cinnabon and Almond Joy! Go HERE and print out your .55 coupon. These make for a great price, especially when Publix has them BOGO or on sale!

How do you like it?

2011-03-31T07:00:00.001-07:00

How do you all like the looks of my new blog? I LOVE IT!!! :) Sara over at Sara's Pixel Studio designed this for me and did a fabulous job! She is just awesome to work with and is
so.very.patient.
too!!!! (Thanks for putting up with me Sara!!!) :)

Be sure to check back often, as I plan on several giveaways from SouthernTraditions2and others as well!

Got your Irish Legs on?

2011-02-23T19:34:00.000-08:00

Cute, cute tshirt! Go HERE to get yours! Available in several different color tees, and adult sizes available for $2.00 more!

Get YOUR green on!

Didn't realize sewing was dangerous....

2011-02-21T17:17:00.000-08:00

Have been sewing FOOOORRRRREEEEEVVVVVEEEERRRRRR.
Never had a problem.
Until.......
September I sewed over, or I should say, through, my finger.
Went right through the nail and to the other side.
Good thing I didn't bleed on the ghost tee I was making!

Then comes yesterday.......
Embroidery scissors.
Extremely pointy and long.
They fall.
They bounce.
Right into a vein in by my ankle.
Blood spurts, looks like a horror movie, I'm the main character.

I hobble into the house, say "ouch", the kids come to my rescue!
Miss M is cleaning up the blood on my kitchen floor and yellowbox flipflops.
Big Poppa is getting me a band-aid and peroxide.
I tell the kids "Thanks", and my son says, "Well, you do it for us all the time!"

Thanks God, for my good kids! They rock :)

Signs of Spring

2011-02-20T16:41:00.000-08:00

We had an awesome time this weekend.....here are some pictures :) Hope you are have a blessed weekend too!

Want a chance to win?

2011-02-10T04:25:00.001-08:00

Hey Everyone! Want a chance to win one of my Felt Hair Clippies again? Go on over to One Bored Mommy Blogspot and enter to win one!

Courtney is having her 2nd Anniversary Giveaways too, so be sure to enter all of them!

Thanks so much for allowing me to participate Courtney! :)

Well, Hello, Kitty!

2011-02-05T08:09:00.000-08:00

One of my new character towels is Ms. Kitty! Had a super sweet customer want one, so, of course, I was happy to oblige!

Here she is:

Want one? Go HERE to pick one up for your favorite little girl :) Bow can be done in any color, along with your choice of font for the name and thread color!........SOOOO SWEEETTTT!!!!!

Where's spring? (Fingerprint Friday)

2011-02-04T06:16:00.000-08:00

Wet. Dreary. Wet. Cold. Wet. Windy. Wet.

Thank you God for the rain, but please bring out the sunshine! Looking outside at the bleak-ness (hhhmmmmm, not sure if that's a word, but sounds good to me :-) ), kinda makes you wonder if Spring is around the corner.....then I walked outside with my camera yesterday and came across this........

SOOOOO thankful that God made reminders like this! "Praise the Lord! Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever." Psalm 106:1

And, thanks to Beki over at The Rusted Chain Blog! I've been able to play around with my camera and get some decent pictures lately! She's been so helpful with her post on "How to take pretty pictures"! Thanks Beki!

Be sure to go over and check out her Fingerprint Friday post~!

Take a look at your surroundings, I'm sure you can also find signs of Spring!

Conversation Heart Necklace GIVEAWAY!

2011-02-02T18:27:00.001-08:00

I had completely forgot I still had several of these CUTE puffy conversation heart scrabble tile necklaces left from last year! I'm glad I found these the other day, as I'd love to give 3 of my lucky readers one of these necklaces (tile will be my choice, but I will try and give you an option or two! :O) ). Will come on a beautiful satin rattail cord in either white, hot pink, light pink, purple or black.

Here's how to enter:

1 entry ***MANDATORY*** ~ Leave a comment on what your favorite Valentines gift has been!

1 entry ~ Like my fan page on Facebook (Top right side, click on the Badge)

1 entry ~ Follow my blog!

1 entry ~ Blog, FB or tweet about this giveaway, and leave link :)

1 entry ~ Heart either of my stores (links below) and also my daughters store HERE

5 entries ~ Purchase anything from my SouthernTraditions2 ETSY Store or my Torrilynn123 ETSY Store (reusable sandwich/snack bags).

PLEASE BE SURE to leave a SEPERATE COMMENT for each entry!

Thanks so much everyone and I look forward to sending you one of these cute tiles!!!

Ends February 6th, 2011

Makes me smile

2011-01-30T17:31:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! I just made this sample Minnie Mouse Birthday Hat! It makes me SMILE! What about you?

So sweet. So cute. So precious! I am taking orders for these little cuties, so please email me if you have a theme in mind! Blog readers get special pricing until February 15th, so leave a comment, along with your email if you're interested!

More coupons from RightatHome

2011-01-28T06:57:00.000-08:00

GREAT COUPONS!

Click HERE to get some great coupons on Glade candles, Scented Oil Refills and Room Sprays! I love their Clean Linen candles....have one burning right now. Leaves the house smelling clean and fresh, not a heavy perfume smell! Should make for some great prices!

Free bottle of Country Bob's Sauce

2011-01-27T04:57:00.000-08:00

Y'all go over HERE and register to receive your coupon for a FREE bottle of Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce! I still have one from last year that I haven't redeemed yet, but need to! Thanks Country Bob!

Win a Years Supply of Gain Products

2011-01-25T17:57:00.001-08:00

Just got an email from P&G Solutions.....Enter HERE to win a years supply of Gain products. All you'll need to do is fill out a form and hit submit, that's it! :) Easy Peasy!

Clairol Hair color giveaway at 12EST today

2011-01-24T07:19:00.000-08:00

Get a FREE box of foam from Clairol today at 12EST! Just LIKE them on their Facebook Page, then come back at 12pmEST TODAY and get your coupon for a FREE box of Nice N' Easy Color Blend Foam! :) Let me know if you were able to get one!

Giveaway over at The Rusted Chain

2011-01-22T18:25:00.001-08:00

Beki, over at The Rusted Chain is having a giveaway for a $25.00 to her Rusted Chain shop! She has some of the prettiest necklaces and earrings! Here's a couple of new items:

I have a couple of earrings that she made me several years ago and just LOVE LOVE LOVE them!

Be sure to go on over to her The Rusted Chain Blog and enter for your chance to win!

New coupons from Right at Home

2011-01-20T16:11:00.000-08:00

Another great set of coupons available from Right@Home for Windex, Pledge and Scrubbing Bubbles! Click HERE to get yours. You might need to sign up for them, not sure.

We have wood floors and some walls too, so the liquid Pledge is going to come in handy-dandy for my spring cleaning, whenever I get the Spring bug to bite me! LOL!

National Coffee Break Day! Thursday,January 20th

2011-01-20T09:26:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess they have a holiday for everything, but I personally LOVE this one! My husband and I are huge coffee drinkers......just the regular kind please! (Although I've been known to snuggle up on a Mocha Frappucino every now and then!)

To my surprise yesterday, my favorite coffee sent me an email with the ability to print 2 coupons for $1.00 off a bag of their delicious Eight O'Clock Coffee! This makes for a great deal with either Publix or Winn Dixie's BOGOS! Go HERE to print your coupons too! You'll need to sign up, but it's worth it!

Don't forget that Dollar General also has Eight O'Clock Coffee for $4.00 per bag, making it only $3.00 with your coupon!! YEA! I'll be making my trip very soon to get my coffee, can't live without it!

http://www.eightoclock.com/eoc-coupon3.html?source=ncbd

Winners announced

2011-01-19T07:22:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Suzanne and Christina! Random.org picked comments #13 and #86.

Suzanne won with this comment:
kiddo said...
I like you on FB (Suzanne Gregg).

kiddomsg at gmail dot com

and Christina won with this comment:

Christina said...
Tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/gcbabykisses/status/27472923170181120

grahamcrackerbabykisses(at)gmail(dot)com

THANKS SO MUCH to everyone that entered this giveaway! Please come back often to see what else is going on at Southern Traditions Boutique!

Looking for a few good recipes

2011-01-16T19:55:00.000-08:00

One of my New Year's resolutions is to make out a weekly dinner menu. We did pretty good last week with sticking to what I had on it, only for a few exceptions on Thursday when my Father-In-Law was in the hospital.

We love just about anything and usually shop the meat sales for the week. Right now I have two tip roasts, 2 lbs ground beef, 1 whole chicken, link sausage, hot dogs, tilapia and fresh italian sausage.......

So, do any of you have good, kid friendly recipes for the meats listed above? My family has quite a few favorites, but sometimes I get into a rut with my cooking.....anyone else do the same ??? Thanks for sharing!!!

Felt Clippie Giveaway

2011-01-10T16:57:00.000-08:00

Welcome to SouthernTraditionsBoutique Felt Clippie Giveaway! I will be giving away atleast 2 of my new felt clippie designs.

These are so much fun to make and the color possibilities are endless! Here's a couple of pictures for ya!

I also have more clippies coming too! Butterflies, baseball and monkey clippies are in the works!

Here's how to enter:

1 entry ***MANDATORY*** ~ Leave a comment on which clippie you like best!

1 entry ~ Like my fan page on Facebook (Top right side, click on the Badge)

1 entry ~ Follow my blog!

1 entry ~ Blog, FB or tweet about this giveaway, and leave link :)

5 entries ~ Purchase anything from my SouthernTraditions2 ETSY Store or my Torrilynn123 ETSY Store (reusable sandwich/snack bags).

Thanks so much everyone and I look forward to making you some of these adorable felt clippies!!!

Ends January 18th, 2011

Free cup of Yoplait Yogurt

2011-01-10T15:19:00.000-08:00

Yoplait Yogurt is giving away 1 Million cups of yogurt! Go HERE and sign up for yours! It says you should get your coupon in 2-4 weeks. I really love Yoplait! It's a great snack for me around 10am, holds me over until I can make some lunch. They have so many awesome flavors! Some of my favorites are Strawberry Banana, Key Lime Pie, Banana Creme Pie, and Red Velvet! YUMMO!

OK, New Year's resolution!

2011-01-05T16:08:00.000-08:00

My New Years resolution? Among my long, long list, is to keep this blog up-to-date with new items and ideas to keep our lives running better! Please feel free to email me with any coupons, great deals or super recipes that you have so I can pass them along to everyone else!

2010 was a super year, filled with blessings and I'm so thankful that my family and I had great health! Here's hoping that your 2011 will be full of blessings as well!

A collage of personalized Beach Towels

2010-12-10T21:03:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share a collage I made with my adult/big kid personalize towels! Come on by my SouthernTraditions2 Etsy Store and pick some up before the Christmas deadline of December 12th!

Right at Home $100 a day giveaway

2010-12-08T06:34:00.001-08:00

RightAtHome is giving away $100 each day until December 31, 2010. Go HERE to enter every day! Good luck everyone :)

How to clean a Microwave!

2010-12-01T07:24:00.000-08:00

You know there is a super simple way to clean the microwave without using harmful cleaners..........I need to do this again, so I figured I'd share with you :)

Take a 2 qt glass bowl, fill 1/2 full with water and 2 or 3 tbsp of baking soda. Put in the microwave and heat for 10 minutes (we have an old microwave, so some of the new, higher-powered micro's might not need as long.....just get a good bubbling of the water for a couple of minutes). Let sit for about 5 minutes to let the steam work its magic.

After, take bowl out and wipe down the inside with a reusable cloth or paper towels. SO simple and easy to do..... the baking powder cleans the smells that accumulate inside......like butter from exploding bags of popcorn and paste sauce from lasagna that the Dear Husband forgot to cover!

What kind of "eco-friendly" cleaning ideas do you have?

ASoftBlackStar ~ ETSY Christmas Shopping Guide

2010-11-30T14:52:00.000-08:00

SERIOUSLY! How cute and adorable are these makeup bags? I just love her taste in fabrics, as I'm a Damask Chick myself! BUT, I LOVE the houndstooth bag, ROLL TIDE! She has a variety of items in her shop, like Makeup Brush rolls, Makeup bags, and SETS too. She also makes wrist cuffs and hair clips. asoftblackstar has so many awesome items to choose from.....great gifts for teachers, co-workers, teenagers, moms, you name it! Go on by and take a peek at what she has to offer.....here are a few of my favorites!

Makeup Brush roll leopard print for $18.99

Houndstooth Makeup Bag for $12.99

Hotpink and black damask makeup bag and brush roll for $27.99

$1.50 shipping in my reusable bag store on ETSY

2010-11-28T19:19:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone!
The Cyber Monday sale for my Torrilynn123 ETSY STORE is $1.50 shipping on all US order for reusable sandwich or snack bags. Buy as many as you'd like, just pay a flat $1.50 for shipping (sorry, this doesn't include International shipping :( )

Shipping sale will last until about midnight on Monday.

Christmas Shopping Guide ~ Girl216Designs

2010-11-28T15:59:00.000-08:00

I'm going to try and make some Holiday suggestions for you to help make your Holiday Shopping easier!

I came across this shop about 1 year ago and I love Girl216Designs . I love the soft-muted tones of her jewels, great to wear with everything and WON'T break the bank either! Here are a couple of my favorites!

Wooden Frame Earrings for $9.00

The Gardener's Daughter for $13.00

Moon Glow Earrings for $20.00

Stop on by Girl216Designs and tell her Torri sent ya!

UPDATE: Girl216Designs just posted that if you mention you saw this on my BLOG, she will give you FREE SHIPPING!!! THANKS SO MUCH :)

New Coupon Code for Black Friday

2010-11-24T20:12:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving today and eat PLENTY of turkey with all the fixin's!

Be sure to sign up for my newsletter (over to the right) or 'like' my Fan page on Facebook to find out what the coupon code is for my two ETSY stores. This coupon code will be good for Black friday only, November 26, and will expire around midnight.

Have a very blessed Thanksgiving!

Daily Holiday Giveaway | McCormick®

2010-11-18T11:40:00.000-08:00

Daily Holiday Giveaway | McCormick®: "I entered for a chance to win a Flavor the Season Prize Pack and KitchenAid stand mixer from McCormick! You should enter, too. There’s a new winner every day."

This is a great contest, so be sure to enter!!!

Nestle Coupons!

2010-11-17T18:14:00.000-08:00

Great coupons from Nestle..... just in time to start making homemade fudge! :) Go HERE to sign up to print yours! Here are the ones I printed:

~Save $1.00 off of (2) Juicy Juice products (could have used this tonight at Winn Dixie!)
~Save $1.00 off of (2) Packages of Nestle Toll House Morsels (just what I need for my FUDGE! )
~Save .75 off of (1) Nestle Toll House Refridgerated Cookie Dough! (Great to use when Publix has their BOGO! Only paid .75 per package, great for a quick snack for the kiddos)
~Save .50 off of (2) cans of Nestle Carnation Evaporated Milk. Can anyone say SWEET TATER PIE????

New coupons from Target

2010-11-17T06:38:00.001-08:00

These are some great coupons, especially when you can combine them at Publix (Publix takes one manufacturer coupon and one competitors coupon). Go HERE to see what they have. Several good deals for your Thanksgiving meal! :)

Tide Giveaway

2010-11-17T04:53:00.000-08:00

Go HERE and "Like" Tide on Facebook. They are giving away 5,000 bottles of their Tide Stain Release Pre-treat Spray. Good luck!

Eco-Friendly Gingerbread House ~ Fingerprint Friday

2010-11-12T06:42:00.001-08:00

I'm always so thankful for my kiddos, and they never cease to amaze me.....Here's just another example of how they bring smiles to my face!

Who says you need gingerbread to make a gingerbread house when you have cardboard at home? I was amazed yesterday when my 9 year old brought out a house-form made from some cardboard we had around the house. She has been bugging me about making a Gingerbread house, but we didn't have all the ingredients to make some. She was awful quiet for about 1 hour, then emerged with the base. Of course, we had to make a trip to Walmart to pick up the candy to make her house just right! This is also a good way to use up Halloween Candy that won't get eaten (Like the DOTS that are on the front of the house!)

We Googled "Gingerbread House Icing", and found a super simple recipe for Royal Icing..... 1 pound Confectioners Sugar, 1 tsp Cream of Tartar, 3 egg whites. Whip all together until well incorporated and thick! Easy Peasy. She bought the Wilton decoration bags, then we snipped off the end of the bag and she was on her way to making the CUTEST Gingerbread house! I'm really proud of her!

This will probably become a yearly event. We had so much fun yesterday, well, I should say I had so much fun watching her make this! I didn't help at all. Do you all have a family tradition each year?

Be sure to check out the other Fingerprint Friday entries on The Rusted Chain Blog

Renuzit

2010-11-09T06:38:00.000-08:00

AHHH! The cool weather of fall and the smell of my Renuzit "Festive Snow" adjustable air freshener! It's such a clean smell, with a hint of pine. Gets me in the mood for a Christmas tree! Be sure to "Like" them on Facebook for money saving coupons! Says that they still have 10,000 left to give out! Got 2 of the $1.00 off coupons and got them for FREE! Free is always good .....let me know what your favorite fragrance is :)

New Christmas Tees now available

2010-10-30T18:31:00.000-07:00

Two more designs now available! Cute little reindeer and the ornaments are customizable! You can have a totally different color scheme for the ornaments. Great combos are turquoise/brown, pink/brown, traditional red and green, hotpink/black....and the list goes on and on! Stop by my ETSY STORE to take a peek and place your order :)

New Giveaway.....

2010-10-28T19:23:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Be sure to click on the Facebook link over to the right to enter a new line of burp cloths that I'm giving away. It's for a Christmas dot Flannel burp cloth with applique tree and one name :) Be sure to leave a comment on the post that says THIS POST in caps! Ends October 31st...

This is a new pink dot burp cloth that I made. I'll have it listed in my SouthernTraditions2 Store in just a bit.

Good Luck everyone!

New Gingerbread Boy/Girl tees

2010-10-24T05:55:00.001-07:00

OK, I've got the gingerbread tee done, but still have several more to do as well! Come on by my SouthernTraditions2 Etsy Store to see it. I will hopefully have the Christmas ornaments tee done in the next day or two. I also have Hello Kitty, gingerbread house and snowgirl/boy to make! Reindeer will be coming soon....

New Turkey Tee's available!

2010-10-19T06:01:00.001-07:00

Come on by my Southern Traditions Store to see the new Turkey Tshirts. Available in long sleeve with several different tee colors. Don't forget to book mark this site as well as my store, I'll be making several different Christmas tee's as well!

Winner of the Personalized Tee Giveaway....

2010-10-13T06:47:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!
I want to thank EVERYONE who participated in the Tee giveaway! This one took a while to pick a winner, since I can't do the RANDOM.ORG generator, I've had to write everyones name down and pick out of a hat! LOL! SOoooooo, are you ready?...

And the WINNER is.........Nicole Krebs Balogh!!!! CONGRATULATIONS Nicole! I'll be in contact with you today and we can come up with your very own personalized tee.

THANKS AGAIN EVERYONE!!!

Happy Monday Everyone!

2010-10-04T07:57:00.000-07:00

WOW! It is a breezy and beautiful 60 degrees right now in lower Alabama! I actually had to put on my jogging suit for my walk. It was awesome to see God's handywork this morning......leaves turning colors, squirrels running around gathering nuts for winter, the cool breeze blowing, birds chirping! Thank you God, for allowing me to be able to see these awesome creations of yours...Help me to not take anything you've blessed me with for granted!

Feel free to post on how God has blessed you today! Have a Fantastic week everyone!

Personalized Tee giveaway

2010-10-03T08:03:00.001-07:00

All you need to do is LIKE my SouthernTraditionsBoutique Fan Page . That's it! You have one entry by doing that....simple, simple! :) Want more entries? Here's somethings you can do: (Please leave a separate comment for each thing you do!)

Leave a comment on my Fan Page (come back here and let me know you did)

Post my Fan Page to your FB wall (make sure you leave a comment here and tell me you did this!)

Tweet or blog about this....(leave another comment telling me you did this, along with a link :)

Follow my Blog for another entry......

HEART my ETSY shops or any item in them:
SouthernTraditions2
Torrilynn123

I have a goal of 100 Fans by October 11, 2010. If we can get that many, I will give out more of my Personalized Tees! Y'all be sure to enter!

Here are a couple of designs you CAN choose from:

I also have Thanksgiving, Christmas, Birthday and Initials available. This is completely your choice! Good luck everyone and thanks for entering!!!

Need your help! What would you prefer?

2010-09-19T04:46:00.001-07:00

I'm in the process of deciding what type of applique tee I'm going to make for Christmas :) If you were to purchase one, what design would you like? Here are a couple of options:
Lady snow-woman
Snowman
Reindeer girl
Reindeer boy
Mickey Santa
Minnie Santa

Are there any others that you think would do well? If so, just leave me a comment....I appreciate your help! :) I will be having a tee giveaway this coming week (Sept20-27), so stop by and see when it is posted :)

Thanks so much!

MIA for a while

2010-09-09T08:01:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much to my awesome customers, I've been busy lately and haven't had the time to BLOG :) I will hopefully be posting more items soon, as I'm getting caught up. Look for a t-shirt giveaway soon!!!

New Halloween Tshirt listings on ETSY

2010-09-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
I've been super busy, thanks to so many of my awesome customers, but have been getting caught up and have had time to do a couple of these Halloween Tshirts. Available in sizes 2T - 8, short sleeve or long sleeve available.

I've also made a birthday tee with number and name for a super sweet customer and friend!

These are available in so many different fabrics, too many to choose from :) I can also get the girlie numbers or curlz fonts with crown on top.....Just email me for your custom order, or come on by my Southern Traditions 2 Monogram Store .

Cool finds on ETSY!

2010-08-31T08:09:00.000-07:00

Cool finds on ETSY

OuchPouch by
Pillow So Cute

Awesome Idea for all of those Cool, Trendy moms, resonably priced at $5.95 too~

Chevron Calling Cards by
SweetBeaker

Includes 48 cards in your choice of colors. Great for business owners!

Owl Sugar cookies Party Favors by TSCookies

Beautiful ETSY Store! I'd love to have some of these for my daughters birthday :)

Alabama Rag Wreath by WaywardNest

ROOOOLLLLLL TTTTIIIIDDDDDDEEEEE! Need I say more??? OK, National Champs too! LOL!

Recipe time ~ Easy Potato Pancakes

2010-08-23T06:46:00.000-07:00

These are a FAVORITE in our family.....they make a great side to any beef entree. So simple to make and great tasting too! Here's the recipe:

6 peeled potatoes
1 small onion, diced small
1 large egg
1/4 cup AP flour
salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup butter or margarine
1/4 cup vegetable oil

Shred peeled potatoes and dice one small onion. Combine next 4 ingredients until well incorporated. Heat butter and oil in iron skillet until melted, add a heap of potato mixture in pan and fry on each side for about 3-4 minutes. Let drain on paper towels until ready to serve. YUMMO! :)

Do you have any side dishes that are easy to make and ones that your family loves? Email them to me at torritom@graceba.net and I'll post them on the Blog! Also, let me know if you try the above recipe and what the results were!

Fabulous Finds Friday

2010-08-20T05:45:00.000-07:00

As I was pouncing the other day, on ETSY's just sold items, I came across this awesome store: JJ's Jazzy Jewels . The earrings are just GORGEOUS and when I clicked on her store, I couldn't believe how resonably priced they were! I think a majority of them are from $7.00 to $12.00. Here are a couple of samples of her work:

I really love to accessorize! I LOVE vintage jewels, those that remind me of what my grandmothers used to wear, and I love to sparkle! Bling it on! I was completely drawn to the blingability of her earrings and I love the colors she uses. So many to choose from! Maybe she could make me a pair of pink earrings? Pink is my favorite! I love Pink! Pretty in Pink, Pink as a Pigs nose....Did you ask if I LUUUVVVEEDDD pink? Well, yes I do!

Y'all be sure to stop by and take a look at all of the beautiful items she has listed! Be sure to come back and let us know what you bought! Oh, and by
the way, don't forget to get me somethin' too!

What I want Wednesdays

2010-08-18T09:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some things that I would love to have from some cool ETSY stores!

What I want Wednesdays

Roll Tide Elephant Applique Outfit by
TheTrendyBaby

If only my little girl was still LITTLE! WHAAAA!

Handmade Sticker Seals in Pink Floral Roses by
SeasonalDelights

Elegant and beautiful, perfect to add elegance to that special package!

Vintage Coke Metal Drink Box by BlueBonnetFields
I would DIE to have this! We love Coke, YUM!!!

Gemstone Chandelier Earrings by TatianaG
These would look AWESOME hanging from my ears! Can you say early Christmas Present for me???

If you had your choice, what item would you want from ETSY? Post a comment and link so we can see too!

New Giveaway over at This Crazy Life

2010-08-17T06:37:00.001-07:00

Ya'll run on over to Michelle's Blog, This Crazy Life and enter to win a set of my reusable sandwich/snack bags! Thanks so much Michelle for listing this giveaway for me.

I have enjoyed making all of these reusables, and appreciate the fact that they won't be part of the 1,000,000's of plastic baggies that end up in our landfills! "Change begins with ONE!" I know we've helped out in our little way with my kiddos taking the bags to school in their lunches.

I have 100's of fabrics that are great for young and "young-at-heart" as well! I just bought a boat load of fabric last weekend, so I'll be listing those new bags in the next week or so, just trying to get caught up on order right now!

Be sure to enter the other awesome giveaways over at Michelle's This Crazy Life Blog