Banana Muffins!

What did you make? Banana Muffins!

YIKES - I can't find my link! I will update after I do some searching...
How did it turn out? Yummy! We loved them! Noelle would stick a whole one in her mouth and then sign "more" before she even chewed it!

Did you follow directions or make changes? The only changes I made were that I made mini muffins instead of bread. I also added chocolate sprinkles to about 1/3 of the batter.

Would you make it again? Absolutely! They were yummy and low sugar so I felt okay about letting Noelle eat five in one day...
Any tips or advice? Nope! Easy peasy and delicious!

-Sierra

Penne Pasta!

(Plain Chicken original photo)
http://pinterest.com/pin/165736505/
Plain Chicken No Boil Baked Penne Pasta

What did you make?

Penne Pasta for Andy! 

How did it turn out?
I only got to try one bite as I was on my diet, but it was delicous! And Andy loved it. It tastes very similar to lasagna, probably because of the ricotta. It was so easy! And it made a ton, I put it in glass loaf pans lined with foil and froze them. Andy got 5 or six meals out of it.

Did you follow directions or make changes? I mostly followed directions. I didnt have any penne, so I used bow tie pasta, being careful to choose a pasta that had a similar thickness so it would cook through and be tender in the time listed in the recipe directions. Also, I used ground beef instead of sausage, and did not top with extra cheese as she suggested, there was plenty mixed in. I feel like this lady's recipes are usually smothered with cheese and I try to cut back a little.

Would you make it again?

Yes! Easy! Delicious! Freezable! Make some for dinner and freeze half for another night!

Any tips or advice?

Nope, it was a quick recipe to throw together, and would be easy to alter to fit what you want. Different meat, different pasta, extra seasonings etc. Make it!

Am I too old for this? No! Tangled paper doll!

http://pinterest.com/pin/189898165/

Retro Paper Doll- Rapunzel

What did you make?

Well I didn't really MAKE anything..but I printed and cut out a Rapunzel paper doll with all of her clothes. :)

How did it turn out?
Good! I did a pretty good job cutting if I do say so myself! I meant to print it on cardstock, but forgot to put the paper in. It used a lot of ink to print, so I figure I will stick with these until they get beat up, then I will re-print. This is fun! I feel 5!

Did you follow directions or make changes? There were no directions, other than to print, and cut them out. I used my Creative Memories mat and razors to cut along the little slits. It turned out very well! I am going to purchase some magnets to put on the back, and put them on our fridge.

Would you make it again?
Um..Yes. :)

Any tips or advice?

Using the razor along the little slits will make it clean. I cannot imagine cutting this out with it. While it is not extremely difficult, there are several little details to cute around, so it did take a little awhile. I did it while watching a movie. :)

Maple Cookies! Scream!

http://pinterest.com/pin/165732940/
Allrecipes Frosted Maple Cookies
What did you make?

The most delicious maple cookies you will ever have in your life! 

How did it turn out?
The most delicious you will ever have in your life! Haha! Not kidding, everyone raved about them! Andy must have had 30.
Did you follow directions or make changes? I followed directions initially, but as the reviews said, they were hard and flat (too much butter, not enough flour, eggs or maple). I made a second batch right away and we had a winner! They were soft, chewy, and SO DELICIOUS! Have I said that enough already?
Would you make it again?

I plan on making these as often as I can! Any excuse, any occasion! Its the first thing I am going to bake once I am off my diet. (I cheated cause I HAD TO TRY them and ate two already, they were ridiculous.)

Any tips or advice?

Yes, make them right away! Also, follow my recipe, not the original! 

Cookie:

• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 3/4 cup room temperature butter
• 4 teaspoon maple flavored extract (this sounds like a lot, but just do it)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 cups all-purpose flour

 Icing:

• 2 cups confectioners' sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon maple flavored extract

Cream butter and brown sugar. Add maple, vanilla and eggs.
Add in baking soda then flour. Dough may be a little sticky.
Use a 1 1/2 inch cookie scoop (preferable, not necessary) and drop onto a parchment lined baking sheet.
Bake at 350 degrees for 8-9 mins.
Cool on a cookie rack.

For icing, combine all, put in plastic ziplock and cut tiny hole in corner. Drizzle or pipe icing onto cooled cookies. These cookies taste GREAT by themselves, and with icing have a taste similar to maple bar donuts. You choose, both are excellent!

These store great for a week in an airtight container. Don't refrigerate or they will harden. The unbaked dough also freezes really well when wrapped tightly with saran wrap. You may want to freeze half as the recipe makes 4 dozen!

Cleaning Schedule!

http://pinterest.com/pin/151447929/

What did you make?

I made a cleaning schedule. I needed some direction as everything is on the back burner with a baby in the house.

How did it turn out?
I think it turned out great! I made weekly, monthly, 3 month and 6 month lists with check boxes. I plan to laminate it and use dry erase markers, but for now until I make it down to staples I am printing them out weekly and checking it off as I go. I put my vintage flair on it with a cute old graphic of a smiling housewife shining her pots, and through the window you can see her husband washing the car!
Did you follow directions or make changes? I used the above queen of clean list as inspiration and a starting point, but I googled other lists for more ideas and to make sure I wasnt forgetting to clean any nooks or crannies.
Would you make it again? When I need to update the list, sure!

Any tips or advice?

Nope! (Please note in case you want to use the list yourself, I didn't put cleaning the bath tub, vacuuming, mopping the floors, and taking out the trash because those are Andy's chores. I can add them if you want to use my list, just let me know!)
EDIT: oops, wash bath mat should be under once a month, not every three! Will have to edit. Good thing I didn't laminate it yet!

Cheater Waffles!

What did you make? Easy Biscuit Waffles

http://pinterest.com/pin/150888572/

Plain Chicken's Easy Biscuit Waffles

How did it turn out? Pretty Good! You take a can of refrigerated biscuits and put them right on the waffle maker! I love the idea of quick waffles, they just don't happen more than once a year otherwise.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I followed directions, even down to what type of biscuits to buy- Grands Homestyle Buttermilk. She said it takes 1-2 mins to cook, I found when I set my waffle iron to number 2, they were cooked through perfectly when the timer went off and it was 2 mins and 40 seconds! :)

Would you make it again?  Yes! This could be great when company comes over and you need something quick. Just have butter and syrup, or whip cream and strawberries on hand! Each person really only needs 1 biscuit because they squish out a lot and they are dense . That means you can feed 8 people for the $1.99 a can! (besides the toppings and some eggs on the side) Yay!

Any tips or advice? The homestyle buttermilk biscuits were very 'biscuit' tasting and dense, I would like to try with a different kind next time. I am thinking the Grands Flakey. Although they do flake off in layers, I like their flavor better and they are a lot lighter, as waffles usually are, rather than dense like the buttermilk.

This was a fun experiment!

- Michelle

Stuffed Green Bell Peppers

What did you make? Stuffed Green Bell Peppers

http://pinterest.com/pin/167322769/

kalynskitchen.com

 

How did it turn out? Really good

 

Did you follow directions or make changes?  Followed directions for the most part.  I added red bell pepper as well and I didn't have the spices called for, so I used a spice bled that I do have (Herby by Frontier).  I didn't have mozzarella either, so I used provolone slices (and I just realized I totally missed the Parmesan).  Oh, and I cooked the rice in chicken broth rather than water.  I guess I didn't quite follow the directions after all :)

 

Would you make it again?  Yes!

 

Any tips or advice? Definitely cook the rice in broth, it gives it so much more flavor.  Also, we thought it needed some cheese or something in the filling, not just on top.  Maybe adding the Parm as directed would have helped :)

Baked Club Pinwheel

What did you make?
Baked Club Pinwheels!
http://pinterest.com/pin/151434064/
Plain Chicken

How did it turn out?
Good! The whole family enjoyed it. It was posted as an appetizer idea, but we cut it into larger pieces and served it with fries and fruit for dinner.

Did you follow directions or make changes? I followed the basic directions, except that I cooked chicken breast tenders in ooloive oil in a skillet and replaced the deli meat that it called for with that. I was tempted to use turkey bacon too, but thought my husband would enjoy me using real bacon once in awhile. :) I am glad I did because we lost a lot of the salt and flavor by not using the deli meat, so real bacon added some good flavor.

Would you make it again?
Definitely. Super easy and yummy.
Any tips or advice?
I would definitely recommend the healthier, grilled chicken option, and also to make sure to use enough cheese. I think I went a little light unintentionally since I didn't measure and it could have used the whole cup and maybe more. You could also add some avocado or mushrooms or something for some veggie nutrition and extra flavor.

-Sierra

Children's Art Display

What did you make?

Children's Wall Art Display
http://pinterest.com/pin/80518356/
http://pinterest.com/pin/92511063/
Random Thoughts of a SuperMom

How did it turn out?

Great! I have a huge, boring, white wall in a galley kitchen that I have never known what to do with. We are in a relatively short-term rental situation, so I didn't want to do anything expensive or permanent. Now that I have a little, budding, one-year old artist, this was the perfect way to add a splash of color to our space.

Did you follow directions or make changes?

I was inspired by two different pins. I used the "Masterpieces" quote from one and the picture wire closeline idea from another. I followed the directions for the wire except that I used pushpins to hold it up rather than picture hanging screws in order to leave a smaller hole. I ordered the vinyl "Masterpieces" from Etsy. I am quite proud that I took the time to measure everything precisely so that the line and words are all centered and level; usually I am too impatient and have been known to just eyeball it. I still need to find some cute matching mini clothespins for hanging - right now it is a hodgepodge or paperclips and binderclips that I found around the house. We might handmake some cute ones.

Would you make it again?

Yep! I anticipate it being a staple accessory to all of our future homes. I even ordered two vinyl word art pieces so that I am prepared for the next house! :)

Any tips or advice?

Not really, it is an incredibly easy project. So fun too!

Potty Pass

What did you make? 

Potty Pass/Bedtime Pass

http://pinterest.com/pin/177628679/

angieasplund.blogspot.com

How did it turn out? Good.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I never even looked at the original post.  We are having trouble with one of our 3 year old twins staying in his room at night and after trying everything else we could come up with, I decided to give these a try.  I just put stickers on card stock & laminated it.  I also punched a hole in the corner and put a string on them so we could hang them on their door and/or a hook in the kitchen so they don't get lost.

Would you make it again?  

I might need to make & try them again later.  At almost 3 1/2, I'm not sure they quite understand the purpose.  They both use them either before they are actually in bed or within the first 10 minutes after going to bed.

Any tips or advice? 

Ummm...they are working, sort of.  He's still not really staying in bed, but we are able to send him back to bed based on the fact that he has no pass rather than just because we're 'mean parents' :)  However, they have also started a problem with the other twin (who stayed in bed no problem)...he is ecstatic to get out of bed twice now. 

Roasted Balsamic Mushrooms

(photo from original recipe site..I am still camera-less!)

What did you make? Roasted Balsamic Mushrooms

http://pinterest.com/pin/107864990/

Kalyn's Kitchen

How did it turn out? It tastes delicious! I was hesitant to try something new with my delicious mushrooms, but I was a in hurry this week and did not have a lot of time. So I found this in my "Recipes" board and decided to try it out!

Did you follow directions or make changes? I actually changed a lot. the original recipe calls is for roasted green beans and mushrooms, and I cut out the green beans (only because I didn't already have them!). I used the ingredients listed, but substituted the parmesan cheese for the only cheese in my fridge- mozzarella! Again, I was afraid of ruining it...but it tastes DELICIOUS! I roll the mushrooms in olive oil and balsamic dressing, and sprinkled the cheese and garlic salt on top. Baked for about 20 minutes- and yum!

Would you make it again? Yes..probably tomorrow. :) Next time I'm at the store I'm going to grab some green beans and try them out!

Any tips or advice? Nope!

French Toast Muffins

What did you make? French Toast Muffins

http://pinterest.com/pin/121380164/

Velvet Lava French Toast Muffins

How did it turn out? Not so amazing. They were fine, we ate them, but there were a bit flavorless and dense. All reviews described them as "feather-light" and "melt-in-your-mouth"  and they definitely weren't. I had a one year old helper, so maybe I messed up a measurement or over mixed them. I will try them again later this week.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  Followed directions exactly, except made less butter mixture and just brushed it over the top of them after baking rather than dipping the muffins in butter. Seemed healthier that way!

Would you make it again?  I will give it one more go and hope for better results!

Any tips or advice? Not yet, maybe after I make a yummier version. :)

- Sierra

Summer Pasta Sweet Corn & Zucchini!

 

What did you make? Summer Pasta Sweet Corn & Zucchini

http://pinterest.com/pin/144432437/

A Cooking Life Blog: Summer Pasta With Sweet Corn Zucchini

 

How did it turn out? Delicious!

 

Did you follow directions or make changes?  Followed directions, but didn't do much measuring.  I was so bummed to have forgotten the garlic at the grocery store, so used garlic powder. I also went very easy on the basil. I used shell pasta and included lots of the "optional" fresh Parmesan.

 

Would you make it again?  Definitely! When I was making it, I knew I would love it, but wasn't sure if Rob would. It was covered in garlic-y butter-y yumminess, but is a pretty mild flavor over all. Rob always thinks mild things have no flavor, but he loved it! It helped that I heaped fresh parmesan on his serving, but he really LOVED it!

 

Any tips or advice? Nope, except try it while the summer veggies are in season! The fresh sweet corn was such a great flavor in the pasta.

 

- Sierra

Hair Bow Holder!

 

What did you make? A Bow Holder for Noelle

http://pinterest.com/pin/104869377/

Little Inspirations Custom Bow Holder
 

How did it turn out? Cute! I am pleased and it should help us not lose her bows all over the house. 

 

Did you follow directions or make changes?  The pin actually didn't lead to any directions, just a blog with a woman selling them. So, I just made it up - super easy. I took an unfinished frame from Michaels (no glass or backing), painted it black and attached two colors of ribbon to the back of the frame. They are just glued in place now until I borrow my Mom's staple gun, which will be necessary to help the ribbons hold up to lots of clipping and unclipping.

 

Would you make it again?  Definitely! It would be a fun gift.

 

Any tips or advice? Not particularly, just that it is definitely worth making rather than buying! Only takes a few dollars and a few minutes!

 

- Sierra

Command Center!

 

What did you make? A command center! I didn't follow directions from one specific source, but made my own based on lots of different ones. If you type in "Command Center" on Pinterest, they are many to view.

 

How did it turn out? I like it! It is a small one - it is all we have space for and all we need right now.

 

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I used the ideas found from multiple examples, including Vanessa's. :) The top right square is a corkboard with a piece of 12x12 paper glued on with push pins for hanging important to-dos, the bottom is a dry erase board and the bottom left is a mini calendar. The top left is a wooden letter from Michaels that I painted. I highly recommend using command strips for hanging as the foam squares that come with the corkboard just fell off of the products and left stickiness all over the walls.

 

Would you make it again?  When we move or need an upgrade for sure! I want to add a low profile mail slot/file holder to the wall adjacent to it on the right. I haven't found one yet though. Eventually it will include chores and the weekly menus too.

-Sierra

Door Sign

What did you make?

Door Sign

http://pinterest.com/pin/71803306/

etsy.com

How did it turn out? Perfect!  Although it seems to really scare people off... which is sort of the point :)

Did you follow directions or make changes?

I did not follow any directions.  I just purchased the wood sign at Hobby Lobby & painted it with the same paint as the trim of my house.  Then I cut the wording out on outdoor vinyl with my cricut & placed it on the board.  My husband added the hooks & wire and viola...a sign that keeps things pretty quiet around here!
Would you make it again?

Yes 

Any tips or advice?
No

Campfire Cookies

(I didn't take a photo...they were too ugly)

What did you make?

Campfire Cookies

http://pinterest.com/pin/80813349/

fahrenheit350.blogspot.com

How did it turn out?They were really ugly & hardly resembled cookies, but tasted so good I could hardly stop eating them.

Did you follow directions or make changes?

I did not follow the directions at all.  I was making some regular chocolate chip cookies and remembered seeing these on pinterest, so for the last pan, I threw in some marshmallows & put dough on top of graham crackers
Would you make it again?

Yes & follow the directions this time :)

Any tips or advice?
Not until I try to make them correctly

Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole

What did you make?

Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole

http://pinterest.com/pin/94913794/

plainchicken.com

How did it turn out?
Really good!

Did you follow directions or make changes?

I followed the directions exactlyWould you make it again?

Yes!  My hubby & I both loved it!

Any tips or advice?
I would serve it with a salad or something light as it is a little bit heave of a dish.

Football Onesie

What did you make?

Football Onesie

http://pinterest.com/pin/105556440/

bambinoballs.com

How did it turn out?
Great

Did you follow directions or make changes?

Apparently this is an item at an online store (I never actually clicked on the original link until now).  I didn't follow any directions, I just created the design & cut it out in iron on vinyl with my cricut.
Would you make it again?

Totally...it would be a great gift :)

Any tips or advice?
Not really.  I guess just be sure to measure your onesie to see how much room you really have to work with.  I just did 0-3 months (white) & newborn (pink), so my laces had to be pretty small.  I can't wait for my little girl to wear one of these on her 1st Sunday of life :)

Kitchen Command Center

What did you make?

Kitchen Command Center

http://pinterest.com/pin/72815163/

The Clay Family Blog

How did it turn out?
Awesome!

Did you follow directions or make changes?

I spent a good amount of time really thinking about what I wanted to include and looking at other ideas (although this was my primary inspiration).  I ended up purchasing a 12x24 canvas and stapling fabric to it, then overlaying vinyl to create our family name.  Next, I laid a piece of fabric behind a picture frame and then used vinyl to create squares for a calendar, a space for notes & spots for more detailed notes for the current week (the notes & current week section are actually on top of the fabric & under the glass making it dry erase, while the calendar is chalkboard vinyl and on top of the glass).  Under that are 4 pieces of cork with fabric hot glued on, perfect for pinning bills or important paperwork (I ended up doubling up the cork squares to make them thicker so the pins would not go through into the wall).  Finally, I found dry erase/magnet boards at Walmart & used vinyl to put all of our names on them.  I ordered a bunch of chore magnets from Abbie's House (Etsy store) and they fill the board with no names on it.     

Would you make it again?
I don't really have a need to make it again, but I will certainly keep it :)

Any tips or advice?
I got chalkboard markers for the calendar portion & found out that on the glass, they work just like dry erase, but are much more vibrant in color and don't wipe off so easily (they wipe off with water).  I haven't tried them on the dry erase board because I'm afraid they won't come off, but on the glass they are perfect!

Andy's Birthday: Lego Bag!

What did you make? Lego Bag!
http://pinterest.com/pin/104865179/
Crunchy Catholic Momma Lego Bags

How did it turn out? It turned out just fine! I bought a circle punch from Joann and punched 8 from another bag. I used the foam command strip to stick the circles on so that they stood out from the bag. It was cute! The yellow bag I drew a lego head face on it. 

 Did you follow directions or make changes?  I dont know if there were instructions, I think just a picture of what she did for her lego party. I just looked at the picture and went from there.

Would you make it again?  Why not, if there is the occasion?

Any tips or advice? Nope! Easy peasy and cute.

-Michelle

Andy's Birthday: Lego Head Freezer Paper Shirt!

What did you make? Lego Head Freezer Paper Shirt!
For shirt idea:
http://pinterest.com/pin/105031259/
Etsy Lego Man Shirt
For freezer paper tutorial:
http://pinterest.com/pin/80715405/
i am momma hear me roar Freezer Paper Shirt

How did it turn out? GREAT! I bought a regular t-shirt at target for about $6, some freezer paper, fabric paint for $3, and used foam brushes. I made my lego head template in the computer, printed it out, cut it out, traced it out onto the freezer paper, cut it out again! Then I ironed on the shirt, and painted away! It has to lay flat for four hours for drying. Andy was ecstatic!

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I followed the directions perfectly! And it turned out perfectly! 

Would you make it again?  Heck yes! And Andy is excited to make all kinds of shirts with me! This is a great way to make awesome homemade presents for cheap!

Any tips or advice? Just make sure your freezer paper is ironed on really well, check all your corners. I also recommend using a regular paint brush as my foam brush was leaving little fibers behind. I found another freezer paper tutorial last night that said when your paint is completely dry to put a piece of cloth over it and iron it again to seal it. I did not do that as Andy's present was already opened and on his body! Will remember for next time. Also, just an FYI- the paint dries and it leaves kind of a scratchy texture, but I believe it softens up with washing and drying.

-Michelle

Andy's Birthday: Lego Cake!

What did you make? Andy's Birthday: Lego Cake!
http://pinterest.com/pin/90691354/
Betty Crocker Block Cakes

How did it turn out? OK! It was definitely a lot of fun. It was really hard though! Who knew it was so hard to get frosting smooth? I need to get myself an angled spatula and stop using butter knives. I had a major bummer moment, the cake hadn't cooled enough and I went to get it out of the pan and it broke! It was supposed to be rectangular and twice as tall. The little square was all I was able to salvage. It worked out ok though because it was less space to frost and Andy wouldn't be able to eat all that anyway!

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I pretty much followed all the directions. I cant think of any changes. I really liked her advice on spraying your scissors with cooking spray before you cut your marshmallows and they glide right through. Never would have thought of that!
Would you make it again?  Sure? I dont think I need to anytime soon, maybe one day again for my little boy's birthday! It was interesting experience, but may never make again.

Any tips or advice? Get yourself an angled spatula! Frost your cake on a different plate and move it to the final plate when you are done. Also, since you have to trim off the dome because you want a flat cake I definitely recommend doing a crumb coat before your final coating to seal in all those loose crummy sides and top.

- Michelle

Andy's Birthday: Lego Head Pops!

What did you make? Lego Head Pops!
http://pinterest.com/pin/105037065/
Living Locurto Lego Cake Pops & Marshmallow Treats

How did it turn out? Great! Andy LOVED them! He even took them to work to show them off. But it was harder than I thought. It didn't dip well, I actually had to spoon the candy melts on and then smooth it out over the marshmallow.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  The directions were pretty basic. I didn't do any cake pops, just jet-puffed marshmallows because they were the perfect shape with cut in half mini marshmallows on top.
Would you make it again?  The lego heads- yeah if I had an occasion to! I will definitely be making plenty of other cake pops in the future! Such fun!

Any tips or advice? The more melted the candy melts are the better. I will have to read my cake pop book and see if there are any tips in there. I feel like it needed to be runnier. I remember reading that you dip it and shake off the excess, there was no excess being shaken off, it was thick and staying right on that marshmallow! I will edit this if I find any tips on getting it thinned out but still hardening right.

- Michelle

Band-Aid Get Well Card!

(flikr original image)  
What did you make? A Get Well Card!

Flikr Band-aid Get Well Card

How did it turn out? So cute! I made this for our grandma Shirley who isn't feeling well. The funny thing is...after I sent it I found out that both Michelle AND Sierra were planning on making her the exact same card! HAHA! They had both purchased the googly eyes and were just about to make them...glad I beat them to it. ;) 

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I honestly didn't read the directions..I'm not quite sure if there were any! It's pretty self explainatory though when you look at the photo. I used different colors of paper and wrote "Get Well Soon!" using sparkly scrapbooking letters. I used photo adhesives to stick on the eyes..I hope it help up in the mail. They seemed pretty secure so I'm not worried.

Would you make it again?  Yes! Although, Michelle already called dibs on sending out the next one to a family member!

Any tips or advice? Not really. One thing that kind of grossed me out was that the card smelled like a band-aid... sort of nasty. :) But I cant see a way around that! Cant spray it with perfume...that would make your paper blotchy! :)

- Leah

Apple Spice Cookies!

 (Allrecipe original picture)
What did you make? Apple Spice Cookies!

http://pinterest.com/pin/148581765/
Allrecipes Apple and Spice Cookies

How did it turn out? They were good! At first, tasting the dough and again straight out of the oven I thought they were a little heavy on the nutmeg, and especially the cloves, but Andy disagreed. When they cooled and I tried them again, the seasonings were perfect!

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I replaced the shortening with butter (always!), and left out the apple juice because I didn't have any. Also, I left out the raisins and the walnuts, because I am not fond of those. I think I also did more apples, cant remember if I did 1.5 cups or 2 cups. The recipe only called for 1 cup. I thought I might as well since I left out other chunky items.

Would you make it again?  Yes! They were really good, everyone who tried them liked them. I ate way too many.

Any tips or advice? I chopped my apples really small, time consuming but I think its better. Also, I stored them in the fridge which made them sticky, I didn't think I liked that quality, but then I realized that I thought they tasted better cold! Other people didnt seem to have a preference.

Sorry, again no pictures. I made this before we started our pinning challenge, and so they were all eaten a month ago!!

- Michelle

Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas!

What did you make? Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas!!

Food.com Simply Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas 

How did it turn out? DELICIOUS!!!!! :) I am eating them as I type this..and I feel like I can eat the whole dish!!

Did you follow directions or make changes? I made a couple of small changes. I could not find a can of green chilis at all (I'm sure I was just looking in the wrong place...but I SEARCHED that store!) so I bought a can of diced tomatoes with green chilis mixed. I was worried it might ruin them, but it tastes delicious! I will do the same thing next time. Also, I just used the cheese I already had, which was a mexican 4 cheese mix.

Would you make it again?  Yes! Mmmmmm

Any tips or advice? Advice= make this! :) Other than that... nope!

- Leah

Command Center

What did you make? A command center! :)

How did it turn out? Really well- just as I imagined it would :) It is very small compared to most, but perfect to keep track of just to-do's.

Did you follow directions or make changes? I didn't follow the directions of any specific command center- I just looked at a few for some ideas. I used two cork boards (12x12- thank you, Si!), covered them with scrapbook paper, and then worked from there :)

Would you make it again?  Yes! Someday I will need something bigger. I'm going to make one from a friend soon also.

Any tips or advice? Not really :)

- Leah

Bacon Cheese Dogs!

(Allrecipe original picture)
What did you make? Ultimate Bacon Cheese Dogs!

http://pinterest.com/pin/118145798/

Gourmet Mom on the Go: Ultimate Bacon cheese dogs.

How did it turn out? I didn't get to try them as I am dieting, but Andy really liked them! You slit the dog down the middle, stuff it with string cheese, wrap two pieces of bacon around it, and sprinkle brown sugar on top.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I followed the directions, except that I had no string cheese, so two of the dogs I stuffed with stripped up cheddar cheese, and the other two I stuffed with shredded mozzarella.

Would you make it again?  Yes! I still need to try them, and I think it would be really fun to roast them around a campfire one day. 

Any tips or advice? UGH YES! It says in the instructions that you can broil them, or cook over a fire. So I set my oven to 500 and popped them in and what a mistake. They smoke too much, I set off the fire alarm, scared baby, and the house smelled smokey for two days. Also the bacon grease did a lot of popping and splattered the inside of my oven door. I took them out early and had Andy pop them on the BBQ and they were perfect! Will definitely keep this in mind as a BBQ only dish.

Don't have a picture as I couldn't find my camera and Andy ate them!

-Michelle

The Best Meatloaf!

(Allrecipe original picture)
What did you make? Meatloaf!

 http://pinterest.com/pin/118147335/ 

Allrecipes Eileens Meatloaf

How did it turn out? Delicious! And I have never been a meatloaf gal before.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  It called for grated Parmesan cheese which I didn't have so I just left out. Also called for bread crumbs which I substituted oats for. Lastly, I made a glaze for the top, couple tablespoons of ketchup and honey mustard mixed up and brushed on top. Sounds weird but was so good!

Would you make it again?  Heck yes! I made it two weeks ago and it was so good I wanted it again before starting my HCG diet so I made it this weekend. I made it a few days ahead and froze it. I thought meatloaf was a good freezer meal but maybe not. It was fine but it seemed slightly less flavorful than the first time (unless i messed something up?) Still really good though. And when we cut it up this second time it was more dense and harder to serve. Because of that it was looking ugly and I decided not to take a picture of it. A thought, I may have slightly overcooked it the second time, and thats why it was so dense?

Any tips or advice? Make it and bake it on the spot, in case freezing changed it. Its super quick and easy! Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans! Nom nom nom

- Michelle

Lemon Cornmeal cookies!

What did you make? Lemon Cornmeal cookies! 

http://pinterest.com/pin/118330630/

Martha Stewart Lemon Cornmeal Cookies

 

How did it turn out? They were decent. Super quick and easy to mix up, didn't need a lot of ingredient. They tasted fine, they just weren't really exciting. Several people we had over ate them all and said they liked them.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  It called for lemon zest which I substiuted half the amount in lemon extract instead. It recommended pinching off dough, rolling into balls, and flattening slightly. I did that and they didnt change shape, they were just boring, smooth balls. So I did some with my cookie scoop and everyone liked that better. It had a nice crunchy texture on top and soft inside.

Would you make it again?  Maybe, if I had an occasion that called for it. I have other recipes that I love more and so if cookie making was happening I have others first in line.

Any tips or advice? They could stand to be a little sweeter and more lemony. These cookies are better bigger rather than smaller, they seemed softer and best tasting that way.

-Michelle

Dry Erase Menu Board!

What did you make? A Dry Erase Menu Board!
http://pinterest.com/pin/99101187/

Refining Domestic Weekly Meal Planner

How did it turn out? Good! I have been wanting to get back to making weekly menu plans and something cute and new is just the way to motivate me. It was super easy to make.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I followed the directions  except that I used a different typs of frame, mine is plexiglass. Also, it is currently standing on the counter top as in the directions, but I am going to get magnets and hang it on the fridge. I don't have any counter space really, and being plexiglass it is light and safe to hang on the fridge instead and I would just prefer it there.

Would you make it again?  I think I just need one, but probably when I need an upgrade or as a gift for sure.

Any tips or advice? Only to use a grid under your glass when lining up your stickers like directed. I cheated and just eyeballed it. You can kind of tell, but I think it worked out anyway. :)

- Sierra

What did you make? Blueberry Muffins!

http://pinterest.com/pin/114874506/
Allrecipes To Die For Blueberry Muffins

How did it turn out? Good! I had never made real blueberry muffins before but had blueberries that had gotten smooshed so I decided to make a batch.They were easy and delicious. We are in the minority of blueberry muffin likers it seems as we don't like many blueberries in our muffins. So they were a little much for Rob, but our landlord that I gifted some to LOVED them. Also, my crumb mixture was a little chunky - I think the butter was too cold, but I just spread the coating out after baking to even it out a little.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  I followed the directions exactly, except that I halved the crumb mixture based on other reviewers' advice.

Would you make it again?  Yep! I will just probably halve the blueberries next time to suit our family better.

Any tips or advice? I would recommend cutting the crumb mixture in half as I did, it was plenty. I would also recommend letting the butter in the mixture soften first so that it is more of an even crumb mixture, rather than chunks of butter and dry, powdery stuff just hanging out. Next time, I will also try other reviewers advice by using brown sugar instead of white in the crumb mixture. If you are not a fan of blueberries (or even if you are), I would try this recipe with mini chocolate chips instead - yum!

- Sierra

Squares Wall Decoration

What did you make? A canvas wall decoration using scrapbook paper!I was inspired by this:
http://pinterest.com/pin/82523384/

Making Wall Art out of Styrofoam  

How did it turn out? I love it!! I cannot wait to see how it looks on my wall in my new apartment!

Did you follow directions or make changes?  The original directions called for styrofoam, ribbon, and tacky glue. Instead, I bought a pack of art canvases (7 for $12.99 at Michaels) and covered them in black fabric, and then used spray adhesive to secure the scrapbook paper.

Would you make it again?  Absolutely!!

Here is a photo! My camera lens broke the 2nd week of camp, so this was taken on my phone, and in the dark- so it is not the best but you can get an idea of what I did. Soon it will be up on my wall rather than in the dining room floor!

-Leah

Frozen Banana Bites

(never home maker original picture)
http://pinterest.com/pin/70463452/
(never home) maker Frozen Banana Bites

How did it turn out? 

They were really good after being in the freezer about an hour, but staying in longer made them so hard (too hard for me to really enjoy them).  I tried to let them thaw a little, but that just made the chocolate begin to melt and they were a mess.

Did you follow directions or make changes?  

I followed all the directions. I did end up using a spoon to coat most of the bananas as the bowl of chocolate got closer to being empty.  
Would you make it again?  

Yes, but not as a make-ahead snack and in a smaller amount.

Any tips or advice? After being in the freezer about an hour, they still taste like banana, when you keep them in longer they loose the banana taste and are more like vanilla ice cream.  I guess it's all about preference :)
- Vanessa

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

What did you make? Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

http://pinterest.com/pin/90501830/

The Well Fed Newly Weds Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

How did it turn out? It was alright. Andy liked it more than I did. The beef was supposed to be in chunks with stroganoff "gravy" but I think the suggested slow cooker time was way too long, it fell apart into shredded beef and soaked up the liquid, it was difficult to stir into the egg noodles.

Did you follow directions or make changes? I didnt have onions, so I used a dry onion soup mix, and because that is pretty flavorful I skipped some of the called for seasonings.

Would you make it again? Maybe, I think I would rather ask for mom's stroganoff recipe. I remember growing up it was really good.

Would you make future changes? Tips? If I made again and still did the soup mix I think I would use half. I would also use half the sour scream it called for, it was nice and creamy but too sour. Lastly, I would cut down on cook time, it said 7-9 hours. I did the full time cause it cooked over night and it fell apart. I would stop it by 7 hours. 

Andy asked why I was taking a picture of him eating. :)

-Michelle