The Thrifty Blogger

Museum Day 2009

2009-08-31T21:37:00.002-04:00

Museum Day 2009 is on September 26th, 2009. You can get admission for 2 to any participating museum. Here is a link to the free admission cards from Smithsonian Magazine. Great deal! :)

Search for the museums by state. One of the participating NY Museums is the Adirondack Museum, great time to visit the Adirondacks and see some awesome fall color besides! Go here beginning September 9th, 2009 for the latest fall foliage updates.

Free Family Film Festival

2009-05-18T08:22:00.004-04:00

Free Family Film Festival Beginning June 2009!

When school’s out, kids around the country can visit selected Regal theatres for the Free Family Film Festival. It’s nine weeks of movies for kids and parents. Since 1991, Regal has provided this FREE! The movies are rated G & PG and start at 10AM each Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival.

First-come, first-served seating. The Free Family Film Festival is a great way for kids to spend a weekday morning in the summer.
Tickets for our 2009 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show.

Remember! They don't start until June 30th!!

(In the meantime, take your kids to a drive in movie!)

To find a participating theater in any state in the U.S., for the free festival, click here

Here are Syracuse area theaters:

Carousel Mall Stadium 17 9586 CAROUSEL CTR Syracuse ,NY 13290 315-466-5680
06/30/2009-07/02/2009	The Tale Of Despereaux (G)
	Igor (PG)
07/07/2009-07/09/2009	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
07/14/2009-07/16/2009	Space Chimps (G)
	Firehouse Dog (PG)
07/21/2009-07/23/2009	Everyone's Hero (G)
	Robots (PG)
07/28/2009-07/30/2009	Horton Hears A Who (G)
	City Of Ember (PG)
08/04/2009-08/06/2009	Rugrats: The Movie (G)
	Nim's Island (PG)
08/11/2009-08/13/2009	Charlotte's Web (G)
08/18/2009-08/20/2009	Mr. Bean's Holiday (G)
	Madagascar 2: Escape To Africa (PG)
08/25/2009-08/27/2009	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything: Veggie Tale Movie (G)
	Kung Fu Panda (PG)
Check Movies and Showtimes

Great Northern Mall 10 Rte. 481 & 31 Clay ,NY 13041 315-622-8928
06/30/2009-07/01/2009	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
07/07/2009-07/08/2009	Space Chimps (G)
	Firehouse Dog (PG)
07/14/2009-07/15/2009	Everyone's Hero (G)
	Robots (PG)
07/21/2009-07/22/2009	Horton Hears A Who (G)
	City Of Ember (PG)
07/28/2009-07/29/2009	Rugrats: The Movie (G)
	Nim's Island (PG)
08/04/2009-08/05/2009	Charlotte's Web (G)
08/11/2009-08/12/2009	Mr. Bean's Holiday (G)
	Madagascar 2: Escape To Africa (PG)
08/18/2009-08/19/2009	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything: Veggie Tale Movie (G)
	Kung Fu Panda (PG)
08/25/2009-08/26/2009	The Tale Of Despereaux (G)
	Igor (PG)
Check Movies and Showtimes

Shoppingtown Mall 14 3649 ERIE BLVD E DeWitt ,NY 13214 315-449-2001
06/30/2009-07/01/2009	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything: Veggie Tale Movie (G)
	Kung Fu Panda (PG)
07/07/2009-07/08/2009	The Tale Of Despereaux (G)
	Igor (PG)
07/14/2009-07/15/2009	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
07/21/2009-07/22/2009	Space Chimps (G)
	Firehouse Dog (PG)
07/28/2009-07/29/2009	Everyone's Hero (G)
	Robots (PG)
08/04/2009-08/05/2009	Horton Hears A Who (G)
	City Of Ember (PG)
08/11/2009-08/12/2009	Rugrats: The Movie (G)
	Nim's Island (PG)
08/18/2009-08/19/2009	Charlotte's Web (G)
08/25/2009-08/26/2009	Mr. Bean's Holiday (G)
	Madagascar 2: Escape To Africa (PG)
Check Movies and Showtimes

Hulu

2009-01-25T11:43:00.002-05:00

Watch free movies! Check it out. You also see some ads, but that's ok.

Fit Day

2009-01-10T18:35:00.003-05:00

Fit day is a great free program to keep track of your calories, exercise, and your goals. It's really easy to make a free account, takes only a minute, and then you enter what you have eaten for the day. It figures it all out and puts it into a pie chart for you so that you can see the breakdown by proteins, fats, carbs, and yes, even alcohol! (Who knew that was one of the major food groups? lol)

Then, you can enter your stats, like your weight, measurements, activity level, etc. There are several different categories you can enter information into and then the more you enter, the more feedback you will get on the bigger picture. It has a nutrition graph too, that shows how much of the US Recommended Daily Allowance of each vitamin or mineral you are getting from your food.

It shows you the calories eaten for the day and the calories burned. You can track that day by day and see how you are progressing. You can even keep a journal there of your thoughts, and if you want to lose weight, you can track your progress on that too. It's pretty cool entering what you ate for the day and seeing the outcome of it all! Check it out! It's fun, and you may be surprised too!

There is also a version you can upgrade to and pay for, with a free 30 day trial. So far, the free version looks great! According to their website, they have 4.2 million members.

Free Learning Resources from the Federal Government

2009-01-04T12:34:00.004-05:00

This site has a lot of educational resource material for free and they come from a variety of federal agencies. They have a lot of useful links too. It would be great for homeschoolers, as well as children in public and private schools. Or even adults too. I wish I had this when I was young. Just take a look at this index, it is amazing! For teachers, there is a link on how to organize your teaching so students learn better. Dare to Compare invites you to test your knowledge against students nationally and around the world. Pick a grade and subject: civics, economics, geography, history, math, or science. Check it out!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T11:31:00.001-05:00

Tightwad Tuesday

2008-12-30T10:00:00.003-05:00

This week I'm doing the Tightwad Tuesday! This week's theme is frugal goals for 2009. Here's mine:

1. Use the library instead of buying books. Books that I have to buy, I will buy online instead of at bookstores. It's much cheaper.

2. Use those lunch carriers more often to take food from home to work, instead of buying food.

3. Use my breadmaker! Enough said about that lol.

4. Clean out what I don't need by giving away, selling, or throwing out. Freecycle, Craig's list, eBay, and half.com come to mind!

5. Get all my photos uploaded and organized into albums to share with family and friends. It's a cheap, easy way to share, and God forbid you have a fire at your house, the pictures will be saved!

6. Speaking of family, get working on the free geneology page at ancestry.com.

7. Buy only things I really need at garage sales and thrift stores.

8. Work on getting better organized, because without organization you waste a lot of money.

9. Make more homemade meals and use less processed foods.

10. Plant a garden!

Go check out the other Tightwad Tuesday posts!

Veggie Macaroni and Cheese Menu Plan Monday

2008-12-29T10:07:00.003-05:00

Ingredients:
1 head of garlic, roasted
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 pound Cavatappi pasta
1 package of veggie bacon or ham
1 ½ cups fresh white bread crumbs (5 slices, crusts removed)
½ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
8 tablespoons butter
¼ cup minced shallots
½ cup flour
1 quart whole milk
6 ounces Gruyere cheese, grated
8 ounces extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, grated
½ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Directions: Preheat oven to 350°. Cook pasta according to package directions.

Combine breadcrumbs, veggie bacon or ham, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 375°.

Sauté shallots over low heat for one minute. Add remaining 6 tablespoons of butter and continue to sauté shallots in butter until translucent.

Add flour and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes. Increase heat to medium. Stirring constantly with a whisk, add milk and roasted garlic.

Cook until sauce is thickened (coats the back of a spoon). Remove sauce from heat then add salt, pepper, nutmeg, Gruyere and Cheddar cheeses. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.

Stir in cooked pasta. Pour into baking dish. Sprinkle topping to cover entire top. Cover with foil and bake 15 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking until sauce is bubbly and topping is browned. Enjoy!

I changed this recipe from one I found on ABC News winning recipe-This morning on "Good Morning America," Emeril Lagasse announced the winner of his Best Mac 'n' Cheese Ever Challenge: Laura Macek! The recipe above is just changed a bit so it doesn't contain meat. Congratulations to Laura Macek!

Free Sample Dunkin Donuts Coffee

2008-12-29T08:53:00.001-05:00

Free tax return electronic filing

2008-12-25T11:32:00.000-05:00

Free for federal, if you qualify:http://www.irs.gov/efile/article/0,,id=118986,00.html

Free for state, if you qualify:http://www.tax.state.ny.us/elf/free_efile_info.htm

(You can use different ones for each, I have done that other years. Or just make sure both match up with your federal and the state you live in's free file.) Check both side by side to match up and use the same product for each.

Downtown Syracuse

2008-12-14T18:49:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving parade in Auburn

2008-11-30T07:40:00.007-05:00

Lights on the Lake

2008-11-28T12:51:00.008-05:00

Photoshop

2008-11-21T09:36:00.004-05:00

I'd like to share a couple great Photoshop links I have found. If you have any, please add them. :)

This one helps if you are using the book, "Classroom in a book." If you are stumbling in the book on a particular lesson, this link may help you- it did for me!

The links on there are great too, check out Robin's blog.

[Photo taken in Lake Placid]

Addition:

These are two good ones to to use:

First one

Second one

I haven't had time to really fiddle with either of them yet, but they both look like really good resources. Enjoy! :)

~ZZ

Thanks! :)

Obama Hits Home Run

2008-11-05T07:50:00.003-05:00

Cranberry Lake October 13, 2008

2008-10-14T22:17:00.004-04:00

Top of Blue Mountain on 9/27/08

2008-09-30T21:17:00.003-04:00

Taken from the roof of the parking garage at the Adirondack Museum. The clouds were hovering low over the mountain.

Next three are of Raquette Lake.

Wilmington Notch, Whiteface, & Santa's Workshop

2008-08-26T23:01:00.026-04:00

Wilmington Notch is a state campground and I highly recommend it to anyone who would like to camp in the area of Whiteface or Lake Placid. The rangers there, Harlan and Adam,
are very nice, it is clean and very well kept.

It sits at the base of Whiteface, in between High Falls Gorge and Whiteface Mtn. Ski Lift which has gondola rides in the summer. The campground is open until after Columbus Day. It is best to reserve a spot in the back, so you are away from the road and the traffic noise. You will be near the Ausable River (great fishing!) and the roar from it will lull you to sleep at nite.

The campground is about five miles from Santa's Workshop, Lake Placid (home of the Olympics), and Whiteface Mtn. Memorial Highway. There is also an A & W drive-in down the road. The town has a lake with swimming and a picnic area. They have free concerts on Thursday nites. Beware the lake was very chilly! It was fun swimming in though.

Santa's Workshop is a fun place to go with kids. They have rides and shows and animals to feed and pet. And, of course, Santa! You can bring in your own food and drink, or leave and come back.

Whiteface Mtn. Memorial Highway is beautiful. You can drive to the top of the mountain, then either walk up the rock stairway or take an elevator to the top of the mountain. The views are beautiful and it is accessible to everyone. There is a toll for going up there. But, it's definitely worth it! We try to go at least once a year. It was a bit cloudy this time, and chilly, but still nice. Be sure to take a sweater.

There are lots of trails in the area. We went on the trail to Coppernas Pond. You can watch the fly fisherman out in the river. There are so many things to do, that the simple campground of Wilmington Notch is perfect. It does have showers!

The nites were beautiful, it was so dark you could see so many stars. We slept without the rain covers on the tents. And, the leaves are starting to change, a hint of things to come!

NY Open Government

2008-08-13T15:04:00.004-04:00

This is a website to look up people's salaries who work for the State of New York. It's part of an open government look at how NY spends its money. For example, I found out a prison guard in my family makes almost 50K. Not bad for no schooling and a relatively new job. I wouldn't want that job though. Check out the link, you can also look up other areas of spending too. Also, you can search by entering the last name only.

On a separate link from that site, the Buffalo News has a listing of teacher pensions. Just type in the school district and it will list the teachers and their pension amounts and how long they worked for the school. School district labor contracts are here.

There is a contract search here. There is community project spending search here. It's pretty neat that you can find where your tax money is going to.

Last, but not least, you can search for a job with the State of New York here.

I came across this picture

2008-08-03T17:39:00.003-04:00

It was on photobucket and I thought it was hilarious. (Click on picture to go see where it came from)

Entertainment Savers

2008-07-26T15:06:00.001-04:00

Go here and sign up and you can receive 3 special deals a month. They are good for businesses in your area, or you can search for an area that you are going on vacation in and use them there. Any coupons you print have to be used within a 2 week period though, so be sure you're going to use them.

It's completely free, check it out. You just give them your email address, password, and any zip code you want. You can change the zip code as you search for restaurants, museums, activities, all kinds of things. You don't even have to "validate" your email. It couldn't be easier!

Museum Day

2008-07-26T13:25:00.003-04:00

The Smithsonian Magazine is sponsoring Museum Day again. Go here to find a participating museum in your state and print out the coupon! You can also find one on the magazine's September 2008 issue. It is on Saturday September 27th, 2008.

The Adirondack Museum is included in the list-that's a $16.00 per person savings! And, a wonderful time of year to go visit the Adirondacks.

You will get a free general admission for you and a guest to one of hundreds of museums and cultural venues nationwide. Have fun!

Works for Me Wednesday- Banana Boats

2008-07-23T20:37:00.003-04:00

Making banana boats are great fun when you're camping, or even in your own oven at home. You carefully peel the innerside strip of the banana down, leaving one end attached to the banana. Hollow out a little bit of the banana and add back in whatever you like, such as:

Chocolate bar pieces
Marshmallows
Peanut butter

Then wrap it back up, wrap the whole thing in foil, and put in the campfire or hot oven for five minutes or so. Take out, let cool a bit and enjoy! Here is a great website that has instructions and photos. It's called "Instructables." Check it out!

Go see what works for others: click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

Beware of scam calls

2008-07-18T09:11:00.005-04:00

I received a scam call on my cell phone yesterday morning as I was on my way to work. The caller ID said "1893" and it was a recording that said my visa card was cancelled and I needed to call this 800 number to provide personal information to get my card reactivated. First of all, it said it was Auburn Federal Credit Union, which I have never used, and I have no Visa card there. I knew it must be a scam. What I'd like to know is how the caller id can be only 4 numbers? I hope no one fell for this scam who has an account there. They do have a warning on their website as well.

Mennonite Heritage Farm Zwanzigstein Fest

2008-07-16T21:55:00.020-04:00

On the first Saturday in July, the Mennonite Heritage Farm in Croghan holds its annual 20 stones Zwanzigstein Fest. We just happened to see the advertisement in the local pennysaver when we were in Canton during our camping trip. Saturday, July 5th, we went to this festival. It was a lot of fun! It was very reasonably priced- $4.00 for adults and my 5 yr old granddaughter was free. It includes all but the food. It even includes horse and carriage rides. They had all kinds of activities going on, and you could go through the house and barns and see all the old things in use. (They are also open at other times too.) The farm is open during July and August, hours vary. Call 315-346-1122, 315-853-6879 or 315-376-8502. It is located at 8778 Erie Canal Rd, Croghan, NY.

My only complaint was that they served 2 different dinners, one a meatloaf dinner and the other a cold plate dinner which contained cold meat and pasta salad. Being vegetarian, I wanted to get the meatloaf dinner without the meat-(it had lots of other good stuff like potatoes and corn)-instead substituting the pasta salad for the meat. The woman serving the dinner said no, you have to have one or the other. I didn't really see what it would hurt to have substituted pasta salad for the meatloaf, but she would not do it. They were both right there to scoop onto the plates. It's not like they were premade or anything. I was willing to pay the higher price for the meat loaf dinner. She was not real pleasant either. They had a lot of meatless food so I just made do with that. But they would have sold another dinner if she had been more accomodating.

Oh well, everyone else there was great and very friendly! I highly recommend going there. In the fall is the Apple Fest, I'm going to try to go to that too!

Works for me Wednesday-a/c help

2008-07-16T06:19:00.005-04:00

This tip comes accidentally from something that happened to me. I had an old window air conditioner in one of the windows and it hasn't blown really cold air for 2 years. I have been using the one in the window as a fan only. My daughter gave me her a/c, as where she was moving she wouldn't need to use it.

Well before we pulled it out of the window, I told her to go outside and bang on it just to make sure there were no bees in it or anything. So she goes outside and bangs around on it and then just out of curiousity, I turned the a/c on. It started blowing icy cold air! lol It works great now. We left it in the window and never changed it. I'm not sure why it started working-what the banging did- but it worked! I figure if it worked on mine, it may work on yours and it's worth a try.

Go see what works for others: click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

Works for me Wednesday - Keeping Cool Cheaply

2008-07-09T18:36:00.013-04:00

This was a picture of my Grandmother and I in 1980, shortly before she died. She was my favorite person in the world!

This WFMW tip comes from something I saw when I was young and traveled to Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and France with my Grandmother to see Peter, a foreign exchange student she hosted and kept in touch with over the years. Many years ago we went there-1973! I was 12. Now I'm a grandmother! lol

The house we were at, the people had a bathtub outside in their garden and they used it to cool off with. On a hot day, they would fill it with water and climb in and cool off. Then, they would drain the water into the flower garden around it. I thought it was a great idea, especially if you don't have a pool or want the expense of one. You are recycling the tub into a good use, and using the water for the garden. And, of course, staying cool!

Go see what works for others: click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

Auburn Doubledays

2008-06-28T23:04:00.013-04:00

The Auburn Doubledays is a great place to go to watch a baseball game. It's very family-friendly. The kids even get to run the bases afterwards. They also had fireworks at the end. My suggestion though, is to take sunscreen because you'll be out in the sun, and watch out for those foul balls! They also have some free games coming up, so be sure to check them out. During the game, they also have a lot of contests for kids. The kids sign up when they first get there at the gate.

Montezuma Audubon Center

2008-06-25T23:09:00.041-04:00

Osprey?
Over the weekend, we went to the Montezuma Audubon Center. It's a great place to spend the day for free! It was closed when we were there before. It's a neat place but this time, storms threatened and we did not get in a long walk. There are several areas in the vicinity to take walks and observe wildlife. You can pick up a map there. There is also a place right next to it to put in a kayak or canoe.

In the birds nest, there were baby birds and in the picture above it, you can see the adult birds that kept flying in and out of there-worried over their babies.

The facility is on Rt 89 just east of the village of Savanah and Rt 31. There was a boy scout program going on while we were there. The woman working at the desk was very helpful and nice. I highly recommend going here! Be sure to go down the road a few miles and check out the Montezuma Refuge and the other areas of interest, such as Howland's Island.

These pictures are from the Audubon Center, the Montezuma Wildlife Refuge Center, and different areas of the Refuge.

Even though it threatened storms on and off, the sky was a beautiful sight over the refuge.

Check out the live Osprey cam here. It is also broadcast live on a TV in the visitor center.

A few of the birds we saw:

Bird with a red bill. Not sure what it is?

Great blue heron.

An Indigo bunting.

A red winged blackbird.

There is lots of activity going on all around you, you just have to be still and watch for it.

Works for Me Wednesday

2008-06-11T00:31:00.012-04:00

The NYS DEC is one of my favorite websites. They have a lot of good information. Here are some free printable award-winning posters from the NYS DEC. They are in .pdf files and the Department of Environmental Conservation encourages you to download them. It's fun for kids and there are some of animal tracks. You can use this and go out looking for animal tracks with your kids. Here is a poster of Bears! Check out butterflies and moths, backyard bugs, common spiders, (some good educational information too) deer, and more.

The education page has links for kids to learn all about the environment and has a lot of great links too. Learn about endangered species, mining, watersheds, ozone, pollution. This page is filled with all kinds of environmental learning!

They also have free fishing clinics, one of which was last Sunday at the Falcon's Club in Auburn. It was a free kids fishing derby and all the kids went home with something. (The fish were thrown back!) My granddaughter and nephews had loads of fun! There are more coming up, so check out the schedule for one near you. Here are some pictures from that day. They had water balloon tosses, candy throws, tug of wars, and prizes for all the kids. They (Falcon's Club) were looking for a couple more kids to sponsor to go to DEC camps for a week this summer in the Adirondacks. Your child must be at least 12 to go. Contact them for more information if you're in the area. It's sooo hard for me to believe that they are having a hard time getting kids to go! I didn't know it, but I guess these Sportman's Clubs sponsor kids to go there. How nice is that?!! A free learning experience for your kids in the natural environment, very cool! If you don't live near to this area, or you live in another state, check out the clubs in your area!

Go see what works for others: click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

A storm

2008-06-11T00:23:00.006-04:00

Free Magazines at LowPriceSubs.com

2008-06-08T08:05:00.003-04:00

This site has free magazines and they keep changing, so check back if they don't have what you want. The other magazines are low cost too. I just subscribed to Wonder Time for a year for free!

UPDATE: This was in June 08 and I still have not received the magazine as of Jan. 1st, 09. I don't recommend using this lowpricesubs website for magazines. Also, read the comments below. Buyer beware!

Take me out to the ballgame...

2008-06-07T11:18:00.016-04:00

It was the Syracuse SkyChiefs vs. Columbus Clippers. Syracuse started out great with 2 home runs early in the game!

By the top of the 11th inning, the crowd had thinned out. The bases were loaded. The Clippers scored one run.

The Clippers beat the SkyChiefs by one run. Great game!

Mom I'm bored WFMW

2008-06-04T18:16:00.004-04:00

This week's Works for me Wednesday is a "Mom I'm bored!" theme. Regal Entertainment is showing free movies at their theaters as part of the Free Family Film Festival.

"It's a fun-filled nine weeks of movies for kids and parents. Since 1991, Regal has provided this service to the community, and best of all it's FREE! Selected G & PG movies start at 10AM each Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. First-come, first-served seating is limited to theatre capacity. The Free Family Film Festival is safe, lots of fun and a great way for kids to spend a weekday morning in the summer."

Here are some of NYS's participating theaters:

Great Northern Mall 10 Rte. 481 & 31 Clay ,NY 13041 315-622-8928
07/01/2008-07/02/2008	Wallace And Gromit (G)
	Evan Almighty (PG)
07/08/2008-07/09/2008	Mr. Bean's Holiday (G)
	Surf's Up (PG)
07/15/2008-07/16/2008	Arctic Tale (G)
	RV (PG)
07/22/2008-07/23/2008	Curious George (G)
	Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (PG)
07/29/2008-07/30/2008	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	Happy Feet (PG)
08/05/2008-08/06/2008	Clifford's Really Big Movie (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
08/12/2008-08/13/2008	Polar Express (G)
	Water Horse: Legend Of The Deep (PG)
08/19/2008-08/20/2008	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything - Veggie Tales (G)
	The Ant Bully (PG)
08/26/2008-08/27/2008	Charlotte's Web (G)
	Open Season (PG)
Check Movies and Showtimes

Shoppingtown Mall 10 3649 ERIE BLVD E DeWitt ,NY 13214 315-449-2001
07/01/2008-07/02/2008	March Of The Penguins (G)
	Bee Movie (PG)
07/08/2008-07/09/2008	Curious George (G)
	Nancy Drew (PG)
07/15/2008-07/16/2008	Wallace And Gromit (G)
	Happy Feet (PG)
07/22/2008-07/23/2008	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	Surf's Up (PG)
07/29/2008-07/30/2008	Arctic Tale (G)
	Evan Almighty (PG)
08/05/2008-08/06/2008	Polar Express (G)
	The Ant Bully (PG)
08/12/2008-08/13/2008	Charlotte's Web (G)
	Open Season (PG)
08/19/2008-08/20/2008	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything - Veggie Tales (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
08/26/2008-08/27/2008	Mr. Bean's Holiday (G)
	Water Horse: Legend Of The Deep (PG)
Check Movies and Showtimes

Henrietta Stadium 18 525 Marketplace Drive Rochester ,NY 14623 585-424-5461
07/01/2008-07/03/2008	Clifford's Really Big Movie (G)
	Surf's Up (PG)
07/08/2008-07/10/2008	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (PG)
07/15/2008-07/17/2008	Charlotte's Web (G)
	Evan Almighty (PG)
07/22/2008-07/24/2008	Arctic Tale (G)
	Water Horse: Legend Of The Deep (PG)
07/29/2008-07/31/2008	Curious George (G)
	Nancy Drew (PG)
08/05/2008-08/07/2008	Wallace And Gromit (G)
	Nanny McPhee (PG)
08/12/2008-08/14/2008	Everyone's Hero (G)
	RV (PG)
08/19/2008-08/21/2008	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything - Veggie Tales (G)
	Happy Feet (PG)
08/26/2008-08/28/2008	Mr. Bean's Holiday (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
Check for regular Movies and Showtimes
Greece Ridge Stadium 12 176 Greece Ridge Center Drive Rochester ,NY 14626 585-225-8837
07/01/2008-07/02/2008	Mr. Bean's Holiday (G)
	RV (PG)
07/08/2008-07/09/2008	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	Evan Almighty (PG)
07/15/2008-07/16/2008	Polar Express (G)
	Happy Feet (PG)
07/22/2008-07/23/2008	Wallace And Gromit (G)
	Surf's Up (PG)
07/29/2008-07/30/2008	Arctic Tale (G)
	Nanny McPhee (PG)
08/05/2008-08/06/2008	Curious George (G)
	Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (PG)
08/12/2008-08/13/2008	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything - Veggie Tales (G)
	Open Season (PG)
08/19/2008-08/20/2008	Clifford's Really Big Movie (G)
	Water Horse: Legend Of The Deep (PG)
08/26/2008-08/27/2008	Charlotte's Web (G)
	Bee Movie (PG)
Check Movies and Showtimes

Carousel Mall Stadium 17 9586 CAROUSEL CTR Syracuse ,NY 13290 315-466-5680
07/01/2008-07/03/2008	Curious George (G)
	Surf's Up (PG)
07/08/2008-07/10/2008	March Of The Penguins (G)
	Bee Movie (PG)
07/15/2008-07/17/2008	Mr. Bean's Holiday (G)
	Nancy Drew (PG)
07/22/2008-07/24/2008	Wallace And Gromit (G)
	Happy Feet (PG)
07/29/2008-07/31/2008	Polar Express (G)
	The Ant Bully (PG)
08/05/2008-08/07/2008	Arctic Tale (G)
	Evan Almighty (PG)
08/12/2008-08/14/2008	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	RV (PG)
08/19/2008-08/21/2008	Charlotte's Web (G)
	Water Horse: Legend Of The Deep (PG)
08/26/2008-08/28/2008	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything - Veggie Tales (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
Check Movies and Showtimes

Eastview 13 70 Eastview Mall Drive Victor ,NY 14564 585-425-0423
07/01/2008-07/02/2008	Everyone's Hero (G)
	Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (PG)
07/08/2008-07/09/2008	Clifford's Really Big Movie (G)
	Nanny McPhee (PG)
07/15/2008-07/16/2008	Arctic Tale (G)
	RV (PG)
07/22/2008-07/23/2008	Curious George (G)
	Evan Almighty (PG)
07/29/2008-07/30/2008	Mr. Bean's Holiday (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
08/05/2008-08/06/2008	Charlotte's Web (G)
	Nancy Drew (PG)
08/12/2008-08/13/2008	Wallace And Gromit (G)
	Surf's Up (PG)
08/19/2008-08/20/2008	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	Water Horse: Legend Of The Deep (PG)
08/26/2008-08/27/2008	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything - Veggie Tales (G)
	Happy Feet (PG)
Check for regular Movies and Showtimes

Another good place to go is the library. It's free, and there is something for everyone. Plus it gets everyone reading!

Oh, and one more really neat tip that came from my mother! Did you know that aluminum foil and plastic wrap have tabs in the ends of the box that you push in to hold the roll in place while you pull and tear?? I didn't know that! Take a look at the ends of your box of foil or plastic wrap and even if it's generic, you'll see a push in tab at each end to hold the roll in place! No more having to worry about that roll pulling out of the box with the wrap.

Go see what works for others: click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

Finger Lakes National Forest - WFMW

2008-05-28T18:52:00.030-04:00

This is where we camped on Memorial Day weekend. It was free! It seems like a very underused area. If you want to get away and go camping try going on Federal or State Forest land for free. Be sure to check out the regulations for your particular area.

We went to Finger Lakes National Forest in Schuyler County and camped. It is NY state's only national forest. There are 16,118 acres on a high ridge in between Cayuga and Seneca Lakes. There is even a place for horses and their owners to camp here. There are miles and miles of dirt roads and trails. The Finger Lakes Trail goes through it. It was great. There are a few minor inconveniences, like no bathroom or showers, but we solved that by going to nearby Taughannock Falls State Park and grabbing a shower. If the air and water were warmer, we would have jumped in the pond like a few other brave souls did.

The only money we spent was for gas and the food we brought with us. It was a great feeling returning home and not feeling broke!

There are forest tent caterpillars active right now.

This was the parking lot for where we camped. We walked in a half mile. The first 2 days we were the only ones camping overnight in this area. By Sunday, the lot was full. It was still nowhere near the amount of campers we saw at Taughannock Falls State Park, which resembled a huge parking lot rather than a camping area.

This was our "bathroom."

She got lucky and found a friend fishing who let her throw the fish back in the water!

Brrr.

The birds were amazing. Birds I have never heard before and so loud and so many, wow it was indescribable. A birder's paradise at dawn! Do you know what kind of bird this is?

Heading towards Seneca Lake.

Some horseback trailriders.

Taughannock Falls.

Horseshoe tracks.

Go see what works for others: click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

2008-05-23T07:53:00.003-04:00

Tips on dyeing your hair

2008-05-21T14:49:00.007-04:00

My sister, who is a hairdresser, gave me this one. When you go to dye your hair yourself, buy 2 boxes of dye that are somewhat similar in color. Be sure to use the same brand and similar color. Use the same manufacturer! You don't want green hair. Prepare and mix both bottles according to the directions, pour half of each into one bottle, mixing the two colors together. (Yeah you'll be wasting half of it-unless you could find a friend who wants to also color hers, or you have really long hair.) The end result will be a more natural looking haircolor! Speaking of which, mine badly needs it right now lol.

Disclaimer: You may want to consult your hairdresser for her advice. In any case, don't blame me if your color is not what you would like. lol (You can always do the strand test first to double check the end results!)

Here are some other websites that talk about it.

Go see what works for others: click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

Fireworks in Baldwinsville

2008-05-20T03:20:00.024-04:00

Saturday we were up near the south shore of Oneida Lake, not far from where a tornado touched down. This was a picture of the sky-it was raining. Unfortunately we weren't next to the lake to get a great picture.

Then we watched the fireworks from the cemetary. They were really nice and seemed to go on forever!

TerraCycle

2008-05-14T05:48:00.006-04:00

TerraCycle is a business that recycles waste and uses it to package Worm tea, deer repellent, worm castings, potting mix, all kinds of stuff that is packaged in bottles, drink pouches, jugs, yogurt containers, cookie wrappers, clif bar wrappers that are bought from YOU. Yup, that's right, you sign up with them and they will mail you a free shipping box and you collect all the stuff you have and mail it back to them. Your favorite charity will get the money thanks to you. They will get two cents a drink pouch or five cents a bottle, and you are helping the environment and helping a great company. Also, it's good for groups to do, like the Girl Scouts/Boy Scouts, school groups, etc. Why not sign up today? It looks like for some of them you have to go on a waiting list at the moment. The cookie one and the drink pouch still have openings though. You can still support this company and buy their products!

They also have a lot of educational videos and good information on gardening help too. Check out these bags made out of recycled plastic bags and drink pouches. It's a really interesting story about 2 kids who were students at Princeton. One decided to grow worms to improve his "plants in the basement." This product they developed worked so well that they dropped out of school and they further developed it into the business that it is today. The story is a great one! "The company's flagship product, TerraCycle Plant Food™, is an all-natural, all-organic, 'goof-proof' liquid plant food made from waste (worm poop) and packaged in waste (reused soda bottles)!" Go watch the video here. Their products are available in stores all over. Best of all these products have great reviews and they really work!

Go see what works for others: click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

Huddler

2008-05-13T08:58:00.005-04:00

Green home at Huddler.com is a great website! It is a green-sharing community where you can see product reviews, wiki articles, photos, forums, etc. of green items for your home and community. Ever wonder if something green really works? Go check it out, it's a really neat site, and you could learn a lot too.

Look at the adorable "Kittens!"

2008-05-07T17:20:00.006-04:00

So there I was.... just relaxing in front of the T.V. when the kids yelled,
"Hey Mom, come see the kittens."

(This came from an email, they are not my "KITTENS.") LOL :)

Works for me Wednesday

2008-05-07T08:00:00.001-04:00

No, I mean what DOESN'T work for me Wednesday-that is the theme this week. So I have been wracking my brain trying to think what doesn't work...

and I thought to this morning when I woke up...several times during the night! A couple months ago, I switched to drinking decaf coffee. The only place in the world that uses the "swiss water method" is in Vancouver, B.C., Canada. Click on the link for more information.

I didn't really notice much difference, it tasted just as good! Well, the past two days I ran out and I still had some regular coffee left, so I thought, well I'll just have some regular coffee and use this up instead of wasting it. This morning I realized that the coffee is the most likely reason why I had horrible sleep the past two days!

No more regular coffee for me! :)

Go see what doesn't work for others: click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

From an email...

2008-05-06T07:46:00.000-04:00

*Just for this morning, I am going to step over the laundry, and pick you up and take you to the park to play.

*Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes in the sink, and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.

*Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone and keep the computer off, and sit with you in the backyard and blow bubbles.

*Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once, not even a tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck and I will buy you one if he comes by.

*Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about what you are going to be when you grow up, or second guess every decision I have made where you are concerned.

*Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me bake cookies, and I won't stand over you trying to fix them.

*Just for this afternoon, I will take us to McDonald's and buy
us both a Happy Meal so you can have both toys.

*Just for this evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you a story about how you were born and how much I love you.

*Just for this evening, I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry.

*Just for this evening, I will let you stay up late while we sit on the porch and count all the stars.

*Just for this evening, I will snuggle beside you for hours,
and miss my favorite TV shows.

*Just for this evening when I run my finger through your hair as you pray, I will simply be grateful that God has given me the greatest gift ever given.

*I will think about the mothers And fathers who are searching
for their missing children, the mothers and fathers who are
visiting their children's graves instead of their bedrooms, and
mothers and fathers who are in hospital rooms watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming inside that they can't handle it anymore..

*And when I kiss you good night I will hold you a little tighter, a ittle longer. It is then, that I will thank God for you, and ask Him for nothing, except one more day.............

Ski Dubai

2008-04-30T13:17:00.005-04:00

These pictures were emailed to me. They are of Ski Dubai. It is an indoor ski resort in Dubai. The email showed this as proof that the arab states are profiting off of us, while we pay more at the pump. However, a quick seach shows that according to Wikipedia, "A majority of the emirate's revenues are from trade, manufacturing and financial services.[6]Revenues from petroleum and natural gas contribute less than 6% (2006)^[7] of Dubai's US$ 37 billion economy (2005).^[8]"

It would be interesting to have snow in a controlled environment only. No more car crashes, no more shoveling, no more huge heat bills.

Michael Jackson moved there. A lot of foreigners live there. I don't know much about it, other than what I have read.

I would not go there myself, after reading this story. Who would want to go to a country like that? Not me!

Works for Me Wednesday

2008-04-30T12:20:00.004-04:00

My granddaughter loves macaroni and cheese. A couple years ago, I wanted to make it healthier and hide some vegetables in it, so I experimented and found that broccoli really makes it taste SO good. I usually buy Annie's if I don't make it from scratch. Annie's has better and less ingredients in theirs. (Since eating Annie's, I can't stand Kraft.)

When I put the water in to boil, I also drop in about a half a bunch of broccoli (per box of macaroni), cut up. When the water starts to boil, I add the macaroni. When the macaroni is done, the broccoli is also nice and tender and done too.

I drain them, add the cheese packet, and also add some extra cheese-whatever I have in the fridge. Adding extra cheese makes it taste better too, because the broccoli kind of dilutes the cheese packet if you just use that. My granddaughter loves this so much, she will eat like three bowls of it! And she's little and only four. And, the best thing, she eats every speck of broccoli too!

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

TV-free week ends-or does it?

2008-04-28T22:26:00.006-04:00

Well the TV-free week has ended. I barely noticed it not being on. It wasn't hard at all to go without it. I'm going to cancel DISH network as soon as the contract is up. (Should be up in May!) Amazingly, I received a bill in the mail today from DIRECTV, which I haven't had since November of 2006, saying that I owe for 3 pay-per-view movies. $18. 97. HUH? lol I think it's a mistake, since it's going on one and a half years since I've had it! First they call me all the time wanting me to switch, now they send me a bill? I'm going to keep the tv though, for those old home movies and for occasional dvd's borrowed from the library. There are so many good books to read, who needs tv? :)

I hope you will consider turning off your tv.

Go to Unplug your kids and check out the other blogs participating in TV-turn off week!

Happy weekend!

2008-04-25T22:15:00.000-04:00

A touching email I received today

2008-04-23T16:46:00.002-04:00

F A M I L Y

I ran into a stranger as he passed by,

'Oh excuse me please' was my reply.

He said, 'Please excuse me too;

I wasn't watching for you.'

We were very polite, this stranger and I.

We went on our way and we said goodbye.

But at home a different story is told,

How we treat our loved ones, young and old.

Later that day, cooking the evening meal,

My son stood beside me very still.

When I turned, I nearly knocked him down.

'Move out of the way,' I said with a frown.

He walked away, his little heart broken.

I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.

While I lay awake in bed,

God's still small voice came to me and said,

'While dealing with a stranger,

common courtesy you use,

but the family you love, you seem to abuse.

Go and look on the kitchen floor,

You'll find some flowers there by the door.

Those are the flowers he brought for you.

He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue.

He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise,

you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes.

By this time, I felt very small,

And now my tears began to fall.

I quietly went and knelt by his bed;

'Wake up, little one, wake up,' I said.

'Are these the flowers you picked for me?'

He smiled, 'I found 'em, out by the tree.

I picked 'em because they're pretty like you.

I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue.

I said, 'Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today;

I shouldn't have yelled at you that way.

He said, 'Oh, Mom, that's okay.

I love you anyway.

I said, 'Son, I love you too,

and I do like the flowers, especially the blue.'

FAMILY

Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company

that we are working for could easily replace us in

a matter of days.

But the family we left behind will feel the loss

for the rest of their lives.

And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more

into work than into our own family,

an unwise investment indeed,

don't you think?

Works for me Wednesday Immune system boosters

2008-04-23T07:46:00.010-04:00

This worked for me:

A week and a half ago, my daughter had the flu. She was REALLY sick. Neither my 4yr old granddaughter nor I caught it, thank God. I believe that using these 2 products helped us not to catch it. None of us had had a flu shot either.

The children's echinacea has no alcohol in it and is made in Oregon by Herb Pharm, a great company. It matters where you buy it! Check them out! You just add some drops of it to your child's drink, depending on their weight. I bought this at Wegmans.

This raw honey tastes GREAT. You have to try it, I highly recommend it, it's excellent. It tastes 100 times better than normal processed honey you buy at the store. This is raw, with bits and pieces of honeycomb, propolis, and pollen in it. It's made locally in NYS. You can click on either picture for more information about them. People have also said that eating a spoonful of raw honey every day has helped their allergies. It's thick, like a cream.

Note: don't give honey to children under 12 months old!

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

Happy Earth Day!

2008-04-22T01:20:00.006-04:00

Click on this view of the earth at night to see how bright it is. The picture comes from NASA.

I've been tagged!

2008-04-21T02:26:00.005-04:00

I've been tagged by Kim to do a meme. I'm supposed to pick up the book nearest me, go to page 123, find the fifth sentence and then type and post the next three sentences after the fifth one and then I'm supposed to tag five people. (Sahm , Unicorn , Faith, works, and crafts , Frugal for life, and You Grow Girl.) Ok. Here I go!, The book is "A Year Without 'Made in China:' One Family's True Life Adventure in the Global Economy " and the author is Sara Bongiorni.

"Happy Birthday," she told him. Now, as I study the package in my lap, I picture myself marching back to the entrance gate and handing my free cooler back to the girl. I'd work my facial features into some appropriately pathetic configuration before handing her the unopened cooler and saying something like, "I'm sorry. I cannot accept this free Chinese cooler from the Welk family. It has to do with a New Year's resolution, which I'm starting to regret, right about now. Thanks, anyway."

(Ok it's more than 3 sentences but I didn't want to break up the quote.) :)

Turn off that TV!

2008-04-21T00:39:00.007-04:00

This week is turn off your tv week. Are you going to try a week without tv? I will, but it's not really a big deal, as I don't watch tv much ever, anyway. There are too many good books to read, too many other things to do. Now turning off the computer would be much harder for me. But at least the computer is interactive, it's like a giant library to explore, versus tv where you are watching someone else's ideas and imagination. It's hypnotizing, and not very good for kids.

I once met a man in NJ who worked with special needs children and he told me not to let kids play video games or watch tv. He told me that the images make the child's eyes move faster than his brain can process, and it creates the problems with ADD, and things like that. All that energy moves inside the brain but has no physical outlet. I'm not sure if he's right, but there sure is a lot more of that than there used to be before all the video games. A new study from Cornell University shows that television is responsible for the developed world's rising rates of autism in children. This is really scary, go check out the study.

I hope you will consider turning off your tv.

Go to Unplug your kids and check out the other blogs participating in TV-turn off week!

Earth Day is coming-are you ready?

2008-04-19T19:51:00.002-04:00

April 22nd, 2008 is Earth Day. Do you have anything special planned for that day?

WFMW-Rate your Professors and Rate your teachers

2008-04-16T01:01:00.005-04:00

Todays Tip:

Did you know there are websites to find how your Teacher or Professor rates? They are graded by students who have taken their classes. I went to the ones I know, and they are pretty close and right on. My daughter's Teachers from high school were on there, and the reviews were exactly how we remember them being. The beloved Art Teacher had excellent ratings and told how the Teacher had a great way with the kids. The History Teacher with no patience was rated accordingly. It's interesting to say the least!

It's helpful if you are thinking about taking a college class, and there is a choice between Instructors-now you can go look and see which one has better ratings. If there is only one posting that looks out of the ordinary from the others, (with a bad review) then that person might have a grudge. So, take the overall picture from what you see, and judge accordingly. Not all Teachers or Professors are on there, but a lot are. You can leave a review on there too. But be sure to be fair. If a Teacher or Professor has been really great, let the world know, and grade them! The Teachers or Professors can respond back on there too.

Watch this youtube video with a Professor who thinks it's a good idea.

http://www.ratemyprofessors.com/

(click on the map, then your state, and then your school)

http://www.ratemyteachers.com/

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

IRS Taxes Due Today

2008-04-15T01:01:00.001-04:00

Be sure to get those taxes out by today, April 15th, 2008. No later dates this year due to Patriot's Day! There's an added bonus to getting your taxes done by April 15th- you will be receiving a rebate (Stimulus check) from the IRS as long as you filed taxes, and met a few other conditions. To receive a payment, taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 of income and file a 2007 federal tax return. Your kids can even get money too! Here is a calculator to figure the amount you will get back. It will range from $300 to $600 per person.

If you choose to direct deposit your refund, then your stimulus check will also be direct deposited into your account-and much sooner. They go by the last 2 numbers of your social security number. Direct deposited payments will be deposited starting May 2nd, and continuing through May 16th. That compares to checks that are mailed, which begins May 16th and continues through July 11th. Check out this payment schedule to find out when your check is coming!

For more information, check out these FAQ's. There are lots of them!

Container Gardening

2008-04-09T02:40:00.005-04:00

Container gardening is a good way to have a garden if you have only limited space, a small family, and need portability. Moving this summer? You could take your garden with you! If a severe hailstorm was coming, you could bring the plants inside. Also, if you put them on your deck, you can keep away some of the animals who might be tempted to eat up your plants.

Start with organic seeds. They cost more, but it's better to start out right. Share seeds with friends, or buy from the co-op in bulk. You can use anything for containers, and it's good use of recycling. Start gathering them now. Old boots, baskets, any old containers will work, as long as you make sure there are some holes in the bottom of it for drainage. Make sure they are deep enough too, especially for plants that need deep roots.

Watch this woman plant an herb garden in containers. Herbs are especially good for container planting. She uses diapers! Yes, that's right, she lines the bottom with diapers, which are absorbent and hold in the water.

Here is another guy from Australia with a video showing how to plant in containers.

This woman did an experiment where she lived in a city and planted as many plants as she could on her small lot. She tried to cover nearly every inch of her soil with edible plants to benefit herself and her town. Watch the video!

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

National Train Day!

2008-04-02T22:07:00.006-04:00

Buy one ticket, get one free on April 4th, 2008. With this limited time Buy One, Get One Free sale, you can buy a full fare adult ticket and get a free companion ticket valid for travel to any of over 500 Amtrak destinations. But hurry, this one day sale is valid for sale on April 4th only. Valid for travel on May 10, 2008 only. Use Promotion Code H768. Valid for travel to any Amtrak destination. Go here and click on "hot deals"-and then "National Train Day."

More free learning

2008-04-02T21:30:00.004-04:00

iLearn has a free gardening course to take online, along with small business and personal finance classes. Go check it out, it's free! (Hurry! April 3rd is the last day to enroll for the gardening class.) Also, Sony has free online courses, among them are personal computing classes, home entertainment, digital camera and video classes. Why not take advantage of a chance to learn something for free?

Are your kids being poisoned?

2008-03-30T01:20:00.004-04:00

Go to this website and read the results of a study on kids 3-11 who ate non-organic fruits and vegetables and then switched to organic. Their blood levels were tested and it is amazing the difference. Organic diets significantly lower children's dietary exposure to pesticides. And, within 8 to 36 hours of the children switching to organic food, the pesticides were no longer detected in the testing. The actual study in .pdf form is here. Another article on it is here. Also, click on the USDA Organic picture to go to their website.

Works For Me Wednesday Cooking with Cast Iron

2008-03-26T20:58:00.002-04:00

Ever consider going back to using Cast Iron pots and pans for cooking? I am in the process of doing that. I have a couple cast iron pots-USA made-found at thrift stores. I threw out the teflon. Reports say birds have died from the fumes so they can't be good for us. You can also buy new USA made cast iron pots from Lehmans-but they are pricey. Used ones work just as good and can be found much cheaper. If you can afford it, Lehman's are nice though! There is also Lodge cast iron cookware, made in Tennessee for the past 100 years. Here is a page with tips for handling and caring for your cast iron cookware.

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

Montezuma Refuge and Carp

2008-03-23T18:47:00.003-04:00

Carp trying to get into the Montezuma Wildlife Refuge gate. Neat to watch!

Easter basket-Works for Me Wednesday

2008-03-19T07:00:00.007-04:00

This Easter, I resolved not to buy anything Made in China, especially after reading this:

"Thirteen of 45 items purchased off store shelves and tested by Ashland University chemistry students had paint made with lead, according to Jeffrey D. Weidenhamer, who has made the toy testing an annual spring rite for his students.

Lead, a highly toxic element, can cause severe nerve damage, especially in children.

Two years ago Weidenhamer and his students produced a low-profile study showing many common toys and trinkets, most made in China, had hazardous lead levels. The next round of testing last year got more attention as the issue of tainted Chinese products including toys, pet food and toothpaste made headlines.

"It certainly demonstrates that the problem is still there," Weidenhamer said.

At Ashland, the biggest lead hazards were found in Easter egg spinning tops, plastic Easter eggs that typically are filled at home with treats, bunny hair clips and chick-style sipper cups _ all exceeding the government paint standard of 0.06 percent lead content...."

That's pretty scary. This year, for my granddaughter, I dug out an old lonesome wicker basket, shredded up some comic pages from the Sunday newspaper, and filled it with candy made in the U.S., Canada, and Switzerland. Also a coloring and activity book made in the U.S., and (not shown) a kite and some untreated flower and vegetable seeds to start a child's garden. (She's almost 5.) The Lindt candies were pretty cute (I'm thinking they will look pretty cute out of the box. I didn't take them out of the package yet.) Some of it was Hershey chocolate too, made in PA. She should be happy, as she told me she was hoping the Easter bunny would bring her candy. Check out the Hershey link, they have free stickers and tags and activities you can print out.

It was sad going Easter shopping, because there wasn't much that I could find that wasn't made in China. Sigh. I'm determined though, to avoid it whenever possible. And I'm hoping you will too!

Also, buy local if you can. In Syracuse, there is Hercules Candy Company.

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

How much will you get?

2008-03-17T13:51:00.004-04:00

Starting in May, the IRS will begin sending payments to more than 130 million households. To receive a payment, you must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 of income and file a 2007 federal tax return. The IRS will take care of the rest. Eligible people will receive up to $600 ($1,200 for married couples), and parents will receive an additional $300 for each eligible child younger than 17. Millions of retirees, disabled veterans and low-wage workers who usually are exempt from filing a tax return must do so this year in order to receive a stimulus payment.

For more details and even a calculator, click on the link.

A great story

2008-03-14T17:21:00.001-04:00

I got this in an email today, and wanted to share it. It has a great message.

Subject: Airport Cookies

Getting a grip-WFMW

2008-03-12T08:24:00.005-04:00

This Works for Me Wednesday tip is about mousepads. If you have one of those flimsy, free rubbery cloth mouse pads that they give away, it can double as a jar opener. One day last week, I had a large mouth jar of sauce that just would not open. I was trying to think of a way I could get it open, and spotted my mouse pad sitting there. It was the perfect size, nice and large for gripping the wide lid. One twist, and voila! It was open. Yay! Note: If you have one of those hard, stiff mouse pads, it won't work.

I have another tip too, from my mother! You know those free name labels you get in the mail all the time? She carries some with her and when she comes to places where they have raffles or contests, she just sticks one of those labels right on it, and the only thing left is the phone number. Great idea, eh? Your name is on there all nice and neat, AND readable (if you're left handed like I am) and it's a great time saver. Thanks Mom!

One more tip! This idea comes from my daughter. You know when you are out somewhere and want a cup of coffee, like in a gas station where they have the self-serve coffees and cappuchino? Those cappuchinos are so fattening and sweet, but good! I love those Green Mountain ones. Here's what I do: take a cup of coffee, fill it about 2/3 of the way, then add in some french vanilla cappacino or some almond amaretto, or whatever kind there is. Mix it up, and you get the taste of the cappucino, without all the calories and fat. You won't need cream or sugar, it'll be sweet enough. Experiment and try mixing and taking a sip while you're whipping up your favorite concoction. Thanks daughter!

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

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2008-03-07T19:45:00.003-05:00

Would you eat dinner in this restaurant?

2008-03-07T19:31:00.007-05:00

Here is a copy of an email I received today, no way would I eat there lol! Here is the website link.

Backwards Works for Me Wednesday

2008-03-05T08:35:00.005-05:00

Today is Works-For-Me Wednesday: The Backwards Edition. That simply means that instead of offering a tip, you ask for one, posting a question that has had you stumped, letting your readers offer advice.

My question is how do I get my dog to sleep all night? Most nights she wakes up every 2 to 3 hours, wanting to go outside. She doesn't even seem to want to go to the bathroom, just to walk outside and roam around. I have tried everything. Once in a great while she will sleep 6 hours at a time. I tried withholding water before bedtime. I tried giving her water before bedtime. That actually worked for one day-or it was a coincidence.

She used to sleep through the night but lately it's gotten worse. She also is not eating her dog food very well. I have always given her Pedigree, and lately she has turned her nose up at it, only wanting to eat what I eat. Now, I went and bought "The Good Life Diet" and she ate that. (It's making me think of that whole Chinese wheat gluten thing.) She won't eat dog biscuits that she usually would eat. She is eating fine, as long as it's not dog food. She is ten years old, a lab, reasonably healthy, just got over an ear infection. She hasn't lost weight at all. Other than her eating and sleeping habits lately, she acts fine. She had a checkup at the vet about 2 weeks ago, and everything was ok. Any ideas? Thanks!

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

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Great book

2008-03-01T02:13:00.004-05:00

If you have never read it, please read A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini. It's about life in Afghanistan. Click on the picture to go read more.

I recommend just get the book and read it. It's such a great book! I'm still in the midst of reading it but wanted to say if you have never read this book, go get it!!! Borrow it or buy it.

Excellent Website for Streaming Talk, News, and Radio

2008-02-27T13:17:00.003-05:00

This website has listings of all the links to streaming talk, news, and radio of all kinds. It's a great site! If, for example, you have a favorite site like say Dr. Laura, there is a listing of all the stations that carry her live, and some of them are in different time zones and run the show at different times, so it's pretty easy to find something there you can listen in to. There are all kinds of music too. You can browse shows by Type, Syndicator, State, Licensee, and by Format. The name of the website is StreamingRadioGuide.com and I am so excited to have found good links because I love listening to talk radio and NPR and all kinds of news and music stations. The best thing is the multiple channels carrying some of them at different times of the day and night. Go check it out!

One of my favorites I don't find under car advice, is Click and Clack, Tom and Ray, the Car Talk guys. You can listen here though, to them. They are very funny and cool! I'm sure if you go to the NPR links on StreamingRadioGuide.com, you will find them under the schedules too.

If you have a favorite you listen to, please leave a comment about it!

Fun with photos- WFMW

2008-02-27T10:32:00.016-05:00

Try Picasa, if you've never tried it, it's free, fun, and from Google. It's fun to play with photos. I can't afford Photoshop, but Picasa is a good alternative and best of all it's free!

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

This is Syracuse, heading in from the west on Rt. 690.

These three pictures are from Rochester, Strong Museum and the Butterfly Garden.

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Works for me Wednesday- kids

2008-02-20T21:27:00.006-05:00

My Works for Me Wednesday is to keep a journal of all the things kids say that is cute. Keep it with your phone book or somewhere within easy reach. When you hear something funny, just write it down immediately along with the date. When the child gets older, it'll be a great gift for them. Don't worry about it being all fancy or anything. Don't worry if you didn't start it already, start it now, no matter what age they are. You can also write some things you remember in there too. The important thing is to capture the information before it gets out of your memory! Write anything in there that would make a great tale later in life. When you are no longer here, that book will be there to remind them of how much you cared about them-enough to record all their cuteness.

My entry today: Earlier, my granddaughter (4 yrs. old) had found a misplaced bag of candy from school and their Valentine's day party. It was a small wrapped bag with 3 hershey kisses in it and a small card. All tied in a clear cellophane bag with a ribbon. I said, "Oh, you've got 3 Hershey kisses in there, yummy!" She opened the bag, took out a kiss, handed it to me, and said, "Here Grandma, you want a horsey kiss too?" I didn't think I heard her right, so I said, "a what??" She said, " a HORSEY kiss!" lol

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

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Take a Retreat

2008-02-20T16:56:00.004-05:00

Monks Retreat
This Abbey of the Genesee, Community of Trappist Monks, make delicious bread -that's how they support themselves-and also have retreats available. They are located South of Rochester, NY in Piffard. A good place to go and be silent and one with yourself and nature and God.

Hours:
Church and reception room: 2 AM –7 PM
Bookstore: open throughout the day
Bread Store: 8 AM - 11 AM; 1:30 PM - 4 PM

Bethlehem House is a retreat house where you can stay during the week or on the weekend. Follow the links for more information.

Photos inside house

FAQ's

There are 2 other houses also but it looks like they use them for family visitors and group retreats.

Bethany House

Nazareth House

Bread store

Monks Bread
Other links about it:

Colgate students spend 36 hours there
A man who walked 5 & 20 and stayed there
A posting about an experience there and 2 videos
Intentional Communities
Good information there.
Here is a listing of Monasteries and there is another one from the Finger Lakes that sounds very similar.

If you have ever been here, or know of any other retreats, please post a comment. Thanks!

Works for me Wednesday-My 101

2008-02-13T20:36:00.004-05:00

Sony has free courses to take again. You can enroll now, absolutely free. Go check them out, you're never too old to learn. My 101 instructors are award-winning authors, technology leaders, and professionals. You can enroll in a course at any time -- even after lessons have started, and they remain accessible on the Web site 24/7 until the course end date. FAQ's

Personal Computing:
Your First Web Page
Get the Most Out of Microsoft® Windows Vista® Home Editions
Introduction to Microsoft® Word 2003
Turn Your PC Into a Recording Studio
Introduction to Microsoft® Excel 2003
Introduction to Microsoft® PowerPoint®

2007 Home Entertainment 101:
Get the Cinema Experience at Home with High Definition
Making All of Your HD Products Work Together
Rock the House: Choosing a Home Theater Receiver
Converting Video Tapes to DVD
Set Up Your HDTV to Get the Best Performance
Fusing Home Theater and Interior Design
Record Your Favorite TV Programs Using a DVR

Digital Imaging 101:
Capture Special Family Moments in Photos
Photo Montages 101
Bring Photos to Life in a Video Montage
Introduction to Portrait Photography

Filmmaking 103:
Edit Your Video, Share It Online
Digital Photography Made Simple
Creating Digital Photography Art
Edit Great Home Videos

Personal Innovation 101:
Jump-Start Your Creativity:
Exploring Leonardo da Vinci's Notebooks
Green Living

More courses through iLearn.

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Melanie at Don't try this at home and see all the other blogs participating! Don't forget to visit Shannon at Rocks in my dryer to read about her trip to Africa.

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iLearn

2008-02-06T05:51:00.000-05:00

For February, iLearn has free online courses from iVillage for lots of neat things, and best of all it's free! Here is a listing of what they currently have:
Personal Finance:
Investing for Everyone
Winnebago Dreams: Planning for a Secure Retirement
Map Your Future: The Basics of Personal Financial Planning
Small Business:
Business Etiquette Basics
Get Organized: Managing Time, Space, and Paper
Credit and Your Loan Application
Intermediate Microsoft® Excel 2003
Better Living:
Diet No More!
Stress, Sanity, and Survival
Keep Your Kids Safe on the Internet

Go check these out, it costs nothing, there is no catch, and you might even learn something. You can do these anytime, at your own pace. Try it!

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Works for me Wednesday

2008-02-06T05:20:00.000-05:00

Today's edition of Works for me Wednesday is themed to tell your favorite online shopping sites. One of my favorite places is Ten Thousand Villages, a program run by the Mennonite Central Committee dedicated to fair trade.

They sell lots of neat stuff, they ship really fast, and the money goes to help people in need. Just take a look at this neat pin, made of recycled cans and wire, by disabled artisans at Bombolulu Workshop in Mombasa, Kenya. I love stuff like this! Check out the clearance items too.

Now go visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

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Menu plan Monday recipe

2008-02-03T22:54:00.000-05:00

Easy, quick one pan Peach Walnut cake

In 13 x 9 pan, spread 1 can Peach pie filling
Sprinkle 1 box dry spice cake mix over filling
Combine:
2 whole eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
Pour over cake mix.
Poke it down in a little bit.
Bake at 350 degrees until done, about 40 minutes.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Cheese and Lentil Patties

2 cups cooked lentils
1/2 lb cheese, grated
1 small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon tamari
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon thyme
1 cup italian bread crumbs
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon olive oil

Mix everything together, shape into patties, fry in olive oil until both sides are crisp. Serve on roll with honey mustard, tomato, lettuce, thousand island dressing and veggie bacon.

Veggie dogs with crescent rolls

1 package veggie dogs
1 package crescent rolls
Wraps dogs in rolls, bake. Yum! Easy and quick.

Baked carrots (Mennonite recipe from Finger Lakes Mennonites family favorites-Ella Mae Martin)

2 1/2 cups cooked mashed carrots
1 Tbsp. onion, minced
1 tsp. salt
dash pepper
3 eggs, separated
1/2 cup minced celery
1 cup bread crumbs
2 cups milk
2 Tbsp. butter

Cook onions in butter until soft. Add to carrots. Add beaten egg yolks, milk, celery, seasoning and bread crumbs. Beat egg whites and fold in. Place in greased baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.

Go back to The Organizing Junkie!

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The winner!

2008-02-02T22:47:00.000-05:00

The winner of the mystery gift for the bloggy carnival is "lifeasamama" over at Life as a Mama! In keeping with the surprise, I'm not revealing what it is until she receives it. I hope she likes it. Thanks for everyone who played! Another one is coming in 3 months. :)

Check out all the other winners!

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Honey for nighttime coughing-WFMW

2008-01-30T00:39:00.001-05:00

One tip I wanted to share is using honey to help nighttime coughing. I never buy cough syrup. Honey works just as good. It really does work! It's a cheap, natural remedy, and tastes better than cough syrup too. Try it sometime. Every now and then, kids get colds. Note: don't give honey to children under 12 months old!

My grandaughter was coughing and couldn't sleep, so I gave her a teaspoon of honey in a small 4 to 6 oz. glass of warm tap water, stirred it up, and she drank it down and only coughed a couple more times and then she slept cough-free through the night! Her cough always seems to go away within a few days too. It's not just for kids, of coure, adults can use it too with the same results.

I've been using honey instead of cough syrup since she was over a year old, and she is almost five now. I've never bought cough syrup, why give kids chemicals if you don't need to? If I have some lemon, I will add that in too, but usually it's the middle of the night, there is no lemon and she will drink the honey water right down, and sometimes wants more!

I did a search on the internet and found that other people use honey too, and there have even been some studies about it. This Penn State study says they used buckwheat honey, but I just use any old honey that is pure and natural. I keep it in the refrigerator and also, don't worry if it gets all crystalized looking, just use it anyway-it won't hurt it a bit! I just started using honey a few years ago for cough because I figured if it is in cough drops, there might be something to it!

I've heard other great things about honey too. A teaspoon a day is supposed to help with allergies. I would guess being that honey comes from pollen and it would kind of be like immunizing yourself. I have a friend who swears by it, a teaspoon of honey every day. It can't hurt, so why not try it?

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

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Bloggy Giveaway Carnival

2008-01-28T23:18:00.000-05:00

From today through February 1st, there is a bloggy giveaway carnival going on. All participating blogs are giving away something absolutely free, with free shipping too! This is open to anyone in the U.S. or Canada. I have something to give away too, and it is a surprise giveaway. If you are interested, leave a comment and the winner will be randomly selected and announced on February 2nd!

This is a mystery giveaway, so join in and maybe you will get a nice surprise! It will be something family friendly. Go check out the other blogs and leave comments, who knows maybe you will win something, or just make a new friend. Don't forget to leave a comment! To enter, just leave a comment--any comment--on this post. :)

Bloggy carnival

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Menu Plan Monday Recipe

2008-01-28T05:48:00.000-05:00

This is a very easy soup recipe from Regina's Vegetarian Table. My grandaughter just loves broccoli and this recipe.

Broccoli Soup
Ingredients:

- 2 bunches broccoli
- vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or season salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- pinch of nutmeg
- 1/2 cup non-fat condensed milk or 1/2 & 1/2
- parmesan for garnish (optional)

1. Prepare the broccoli by washing and cutting off the florets. You should have about 3 cups of florets.

2. Cook the florets in boiling salted water for about 5-7 minutes until tender, then drain the water off.

3. Place the florets in a blender with enough vegetable broth to cover. Blend into a puree.

4. Add the salt, nutmeg and pepper and milk and blend again.

5. Pour the soup back into the cooking pan and reheat again.

6. Serve hot. Garnish with a bit of shredded parmesan cheese, if desired.

Serves 4

Oh, and as for the other days' menus, I'm just not that organized to have that all planned out lol. That's what The Organizing Junkie is for-check out that site and the others who linked to there!

Oh, and I just have to say if you have never tried Quorn Gruyere Chik'n Cutlets, they are amazing! Wow, this stuff is delicious. My grandaughter wolfed this down and wanted another! She's only four! They only come 2 in a package though, so they are a bit expensive, but worth it for a treat now and then. They have a wonderful taste for being meatless. Try them sometime!

Go back to The Organizing Junkie!

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I've been tagged

2008-01-24T19:38:00.000-05:00

Disneykid has tagged meme and this is my first time at this. Sorry if I don't know what I'm doing! lol Ok, five things I love and five things I hate. Hmm that should be easy! Oh, and I have to tag 4 people...hmmm let's seeeeeeeeee...I tag Ramblings of a Crazy Woman, Tea and Margaritas in My Garden
,Organizing Junkie, and Pear Tree Cottage. Hmm, I wonder if any of them will do it? lol We'll have to see.

10 things I love and hate:
1. I love my family.
2. I really hate people who hurt kids.
3. I love my friends.
4. I hate meat.
5. I love my pets.
6. I hate debt.
7. I love camping.
8. I hate really cold temperatures.
9. I love smiles.
10. I hate having my picture taken.

Strong Museum

2008-01-23T14:29:00.000-05:00

If you've never been here, you just have to go. Kids love it! Here are a few pictures of the place, they really don't even begin to show all they have there. There are floors with old toys-antiques, there is much, much more than these pictures show. Strong Museum is in Rochester, N.Y. and is rated one of the best ten places for kids in the U.S. Just check out what parents.com has to say here about Strong Museum. Although it's a bit outdated, it doesn't list the butterfly garden and other things, but it does give more information. I've got a membership there and I highly recommend taking your kids there. Right now, the Grossology exhibit is going on!

Romper Stompers WFMW

2008-01-23T06:05:00.000-05:00

Remember using Romper stompers when you were a kid? You can make your own for your kid or grandchild to use. Recycle those old tupperware containers! Find two alike tupperware containers and drill holes in the side of them. You could also use coffee cans, juice cans, flower pots, whatever your creative heart desires. Make some holes, thread some rope through and knot it on the inside. Make sure the rope is looped on each side so the child can walk standing straight up. If the kids are really young, be sure to only let them play with these while you are closely watching them.

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

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Menu plan Monday

2008-01-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

This delicious recipe comes from the cookbook of Regina Campbell, who was featured on PBS. It comes from the PBS show (which I think is retired) and is in her book, "Regina's Vegetarian Table." It's a wonderful book and I highly recommend it. You can buy it from her site through paypal for only $11.95 and free shipping and she even signs it! What a great deal that is! If you can't afford it though, some of the recipes are on her website, so go and check them out.

I love her cookbook so much that I want to give her credit and encourage others to check it out too! You don't have to be vegetarian to use these recipes. And you won't even miss the meat!

Oh, and as for the other days' menus, I'm just not that organized to have that all planned out lol. That's what The Organizing Junkie is for-check out that site and the others who linked to there!

Smoked Mushroom Medley Lasagna

This vegetarian lasagna features a gourmet assortment of ingredients including smoked Gouda (yum!) and mixed mushrooms.

Ingredients

3 layers lasagna noodles (about 3 noodles per layer)
1 lb. mixed variety mushrooms, such as shitake and portabella
1 large stalk celery, chopped
4 green onions, chopped (including at least 2 inches of the greens)
2 Tbs. butter
1 Tbs. dried parsley (or 1/4 C. fresh chopped)
1 tsp. herbes de Provence (or Italian seasoning)
2 Tbs. white wine vinegar (or rice vinegar)
1/3 C. vegetable stock
1 C. half-and-half
Salt
8 oz. smoked Gouda, grated

Directions

1 Heat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles until tender. Drain, rinse, and set aside.
3. Sauté vegetables in butter and a little water until tender. Add herbs and continue to cook for another minute or so.
4. Add vinegar and vegetable stock and cook for 1 minute. Add half-and-half and continue to cook until sauce begins to thicken. Do not overcook as moisture is needed for the lasagna. Season with salt to taste.
5. On the bottom of a 9-inch square baking dish, layer 1/3 of the noodles. Spoon 1/3 of the mushroom mixture on top of noodles. Sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded Gouda and repeat process starting with the lasagna noodles until all ingredients are used up.
6. Bake for 25 minutes until heated through. Serve hot. Enjoy!

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Learning Express Library WFMW

2008-01-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

www.LearningExpressLibrary.com
This is a new library resource available through my library system, Finger Lakes Library System. You link to it through your library if they have it, and it has all these test guides available in pdf format. It helps you prepare for "a variety of academic and civil service tests, including SAT, GED, ASVAB, clerical worker, police officer, firefighter, postal worker and real estate practice tests. There are math, reading, and writing skill-building resources for all students. Job seekers can receive help in creating a resume and cover letter and tips on preparing for a job."

This is really neat! First you go to your library's website, and log in, then link through there to access this Learning Express Library site. If you're not sure if your library uses it yet, call them and find out. This is for all ages, there is homeschooling stuff, school age stuff, college, and work related and federal government testing materials. There is a link on the page to tell your librarian about if you do not have it yet, for a free trial.

They also have free e-downloads too of books, but since I use an iPod, they are not yet compatible. They are hoping to be soon. Check out your library and take advantage of it! I have membership in 2 different library systems, and a college system, so you don't have to reside in that county or even go to college there to have a membership. It gives you a lot more access to what you need. Don't forget to reserve books ahead of time, and movies. And be sure to renew or return on time to avoid late fees and blocks! It can save you tons of money if you use this valuable resource wisely. Especially for someone like myself, who usually only reads a book once.

Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

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Easy delicious cheese pizza

2008-01-14T07:32:00.000-05:00

Here is some pizza I made last night that was really good! I had all this stuff already, so I didn't have to run out and buy anything. You could easily make your own crust, or add other toppings. I never measure anything, so use your own judgment!

Ingredients:
Wegman's Premade large pizza shell
1/2 jar spaghetti sauce (I used Aldi's brand which tastes pretty good!)
Fresh chopped basil ( I used some hydroponically grown-yum!)
Large handful of feta cheese
5 slices of Colby-Jack cheese
Handful of grape tomatoes sliced in half
Pinch of Garlic salt and pepper seasoning (optional) (*Important! Don't use too much! The feta cheese is already pretty salty! )

Start with pizza shell and put all ingredients on in order. Shove into 400 degree oven, watch closely-it only takes minutes until crust is crunchy on outside and soft inside and cheese is melted.

Back to Organizing junkie and Menu Plan Monday

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The Forest

2008-01-11T20:38:00.000-05:00

Good timber does not grow with ease;
the stronger the wind, the stronger the trees.
- J. Willard Marriott

Rosamond Gifford Zoo Photo Contest

2008-01-11T18:02:00.000-05:00

Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse is having a photo contest, from 1/12/08 through 2/3/08, where with this coupon and your camera, you can get in free!

If you don't have a camera, you can still get in half price. Can't beat that!

Special Reduced Admission during

January 2008 - Snow Leopard Month!

Children (age 3 to 15) - $2.00
Students (age 16 to 21 w/ID) - $2.00
Adults (age 16 to 61) - $3.00
Seniors (age 62+) - $2.00
Children 2 and under - Free

Backwards WFMW

2008-01-09T20:34:00.000-05:00

My "backwards Works for me Wednesday" question is how do I keep mice out? Besides using traps-yuck-or having a cat chomping it's head off, are there any ideas for keeping mice out, like some spice that repels them or something? I'm tired of mice! Every winter I have to deal with them. I live in the country across from a farm. Mice are a fact of life, but still I'd rather have them outside! lol Be sure to click on the Works for me Wednesday to visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer and see all the other blogs participating!

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Scary wind!

2008-01-09T18:44:00.000-05:00

Thank God it was my old car and not my new one!

This sandbox was flipped over despite the fact that it had sunk into the ground and it was full of sand.

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Spring Lake Market and Fabrics

2008-01-08T16:29:00.000-05:00

Today, I took a ride over to the Spring Lake Market on Wolcott-Spring Lake road across from Yates Rd. If you've never been there, it is run by Mennonites and it's definitely worth the drive.

One side (the yellow side) is all fabrics of all kinds, anything you could want. They also have some craft stuff, yarn, needles, notions, books, etc. The right side of the building is food. In the refrigerated part, they have all kinds of fresh vegetables and some other stuff. You have to watch the date on some of the packaged/boxed food though, as it can be outdated and the kind of stuff you would find at Buda's next to the Regional Market in Syracuse.

Some really good stuff can be found there, like homemade jams and jellies, and on Fridays they bring in homemade goodies like cakes, cookies, bread and pies. My favorite part of the store is the fabric side ( all kinds of neat material to make curtains out of) and the Friday baked goods. Today also, I picked up a lot of children's tights for only 50 cents a pair! Good deal!

The store has a play area for small kids too. They sell some of my favorite drinks too, the “Kutztown Sarsaparilla and Birch Beer” sodas. If you are looking for food in particular and more than just a small amount-I'd head over to Sauder's in Seneca Falls as their foods-bulk, fresh, and deli-can't be beat! (It's also a Mennonite store and quite large.) Or combine trips and hit up both of these stores in the same day. In between you can visit the Montezuma Refuge!

SPRING LAKE FABRICS
4250 WOLCOTT SPRING LAKE RD. SAVANNAH, NY13146
Phone: 315-594-8485
Fabrics, yarn, notions, bulk foods, vegetables.

Hours:
Monday-Wednesday and Saturday 9am to 5pm
Thursday and Friday 9am to 8pm
Directions

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Mexican Hot Chocolate

2008-01-03T06:05:00.000-05:00

Warm up with some Mexican Hot Chocolate!

Ingredients

1 and 1/2 cups milk

2 cups heavy whipping cream

8 oz. semisweet chocolate chips

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 tsp. cinnamon

2/3 tsp. almond extract

Directions

Combine milk, cream, cinnamon and vanilla in a pot and bring to a boil. Have chocolate on the side in a mixing bowl. Allow the heated liquid to sit off the heat for 5 minutes, then pour over the top of the chocolate. Stir the chocolate mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Serve immediately with whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon.

Serves eight. Try it with peanut butter-chocolate chips or caramel-chocolate chips for something different!

Free 411

2008-01-01T20:43:00.001-05:00

Free 411 for information for personal and business numbers:
1-800-FREE-411 allows you to look up personal and business telephone numbers. You might have to listen to an ad, but hey, you still save money! That's a good thing.

Yes, it really is free.

No gimmicks. No catches.
Just the 411 without the charges.

A service of

Go back to Works for Me Wednesday link at Rocks In My Dryer!

My New Year's Resolutions 2008

2008-01-01T10:13:00.000-05:00

Have you made any resolutions? We all make them and don't follow through, so mine are just general wishful thinking and hopefully some will actually rub off lol. In fact, I'm going to be easy on myself and only post five:

Spend more time with family and friends. Sounds easy! The first one MUST be do-able.
Get organized. Oh boy, not very easy at all, especially for me. Hey there is a system in all this chaos, really!
Help others. No problem!
Get out of debt. Hmm...I'll try, really, I will!
Exercise more and eat healthier. Ok, I'm really going to try....right after I finish off the rest of that chocolate cake...lol

Happy New Year!

2007-12-31T09:43:00.000-05:00

Here is a recipe for a non-alcoholic drink that tastes yummy! It comes from MADD (mothers against drunk driving) and is easy to make. Who needs alcohol to have fun? Be sure to dress up your drink to make them extra special! Adorn your drink with mini-umbrellas, maraschino cherries, fresh fruit wedges, whipped cream, gummy worms, and/or lots of ice. Be creative!

Tropical-Not-A-Colada

3/4 cup unsweetened pineapple juice

Half a banana

2 to 3 packets sweetener

1 teaspoon lime juice

1/4 teaspoon coconut extract

3 to 4 ice cubes

Combine ingredients in blender.
Blend on high for 30 seconds, until smooth and creamy.
Pour into fancy glass and serve with straw.
Makes one 12 ounces serving.

Variation: Substitute 1/2 cup of fresh or unsweetened frozen strawberries for banana. If using fresh berries, add 3-4 extra ice cubes.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T09:40:00.000-05:00

Snowflake cookies

2007-12-19T11:32:00.000-05:00

This is an excellent, healthy, and fun recipe to make! It's from the FamilyFun website, go check it out.

RECIPE INGREDIENTS:
	10 flour tortillas (fajita size)
	1 teaspoon vegetable oil
	1 cup chocolate chips
	l/2 cup confectioners' sugar

1. Heat the oven to 350°.

2. Fold each tortilla into quarters and then snip out shapes with clean scissors as if to make a paper snowflake; add a few decorative cuts but maintain some structural integrity (if your tortillas are stiff, soften them in the oven for a minute).

3. A few at a time, place the snowflakes on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake 5 to 7 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.

4. Remove the snowflakes from the oven, immediately dot each one with about a dozen evenly spaced chocolate chips, then return the flakes to the oven briefly to melt the chips.

5. Once the chips begin to melt, transfer the snowflakes to a cooling rack and use a butter knife to spread the chips a bit.

6. Pop the iced snowflakes in the fridge for 5 or 10 minutes to harden the chocolate, then put the confectioners sugar in a sieve and shake an even layer across them.

7. Serve on dark-colored plates.

8. Makes 10.

You could personalize this recipe in so many different ways. Use whole grain tortillas too. I used melted Earth Balance spread brushed on them, and then some sugar in the raw and cinnamon sprinkled on. Mmm. :)

Heart Healthy gingerbread recipe

2007-12-19T09:31:00.000-05:00

Nonstick canola oil spray
1 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 Tbsp. minced crystallized ginger
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
pinch of salt
1 cup hot water
1 cup unsulphured molasses
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 large egg
2 Tbsp. canola oil
Confectioners' sugar

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly spray an 8-inch square nonstick baking pan with oil.

In a medium bowl, whisk the flours, crystallized ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, ginger, cloves and salt until well combined. Set aside.

In another medium bowl, beat the hot water, molasses, brown sugar, applesauce, egg, and oil until frothy, about 2 minutes. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the liquid. Using a spoon, stir just until combined.

Spread the batter into the pan. Bake until the top springs back when pressed gently in the center, about 50 minutes. Do not overbake. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing. Serve warm or cool. Sift confectioner's sugar on the top.

Education, Music, and Genealogy Links

2007-12-16T19:55:00.000-05:00

Here is a great link for kids of any age-to the Discovery Education School Resources, all free of charge. All kinds of educational resources there, neat site!

Education World-another great site for learning! Check out the games and the math links.

Education Index has tons of links to educational sites, check them out.

Cyndi's List of Genealogy Sites on the Internet A large categorized and cross-referenced directory of sites useful for genealogical research, with hundreds of thousands of links.

Radio-locator They have links to over 10,000 radio station web pages and over 2500 audio streams from radio stations in the U.S. and around the world.

Project Gutenberg is making ASCII versions of classic literature openly available. www.gutenberg.org

The Internet Archive includes texts, audio, (listen to the Grateful Dead live concerts,) moving images, (watch the 1929 Phantom of the Opera movie) and software as well as archived web pages in their collections. Check out the Children's library, with the old 1806 book you can actually see and read right there: Jack and Jill and old Dame Gill
There are a lot of very old books you can read online, they are so neat! Just looking at the pictures even, they are so cool. This is an amazing site for all kinds of old books.