Little Susie Home Maker

Vintage Egg Cartons

2012-02-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

Many people like to collect vintage items. Here is a collection of beautiful egg cartons from my friend Sandie of Steadman's Corner. I decided to put them in a group with my new-old milk glass egg cups in front of my newly remodeled dish rack, china hutch, cabinet! (Isn't that what we all call them?) See inside the yellow carton? Those are fresh eggs from my girls in My Little Red Barn!


6-month old pullet, see her cheek tufts?

So I was visiting Sandie at Steadman's Corner when I was looking at one of the beautiful photographs that Sandi takes. She is not only a Vintage Junkie, but a great photographer. I commented to her that My Girls (my chickens) would love vintage cartons like that. (Actually, it was me)

Sandie was just so kind to send me these cartons. Isn't she just the sweetest person? Thank you, Sandie. You are the greatest! She also included that vintage chick card, it says "Slick Chick" I love it!

My 6-month old pullets are beginning to lay eggs finally!

They have been integrated into the whole flock and are getting along just fine. Chickens are curious creatures. They love checking out each others diggs. Here are a few of my older ones checking out the nursery side.

This is 10 month old "Speedy"

Isn't this Rooster pretty? His name is Speedy. When he was just a peep, my son named him that, because he was just so speedy! The surprise came when we realized he was a boy, because he was sexed as a girl! We love him, anyways!

Thanks Sandie, again for your generosity and I hope you like my pictures of the cartons!

Blessings to everyone,

Little Susie Home Maker

Linking with Rednesday
Linking with Country Homemaker Hop

Little Susie Home Maker's Cinnamon Crescent Rolls

2012-02-19T11:58:00.002-07:00

Little Susie Home Maker's Cinnamon Crescent Rolls

Ever want to put a quick and easy smile on your families face with a yummy semi-homemade treat? I love things that are easy, but have that home made touch. This morning, I looked in my refrigerator and saw a package of crescent rolls. These little guys would be perfect to add some sweetness to breakfast.

Home made "Happy Cinnamon Sprinkles"

Now I don't know about you, but I discovered this secret magical happy ingredient years ago when my children were very little. It is, "Happy Cinnamon Sprinkles" other wise known as Cinnamon Sugar. I actually discovered the happiness myself, as child, when my own mom would make cinnamon sugar and sprinkle it on fresh buttered toast. That was always so good!

So this morning, I took the crescent rolls, and lightly buttered them,

Sprinkled them with Cinnamon sugar,

rolled them up

and baked as directed.

Fifteen minutes later, we had warm, yummy Cinnamon Crescent rolls.

Everyone enjoyed them along side breakfast.

The kids are thrilled once again, and how simple was that.

Cinnamon Crescent Rolls

Hope this adds a smile to your face.

Remember, you don't always have to work hard to bring a smile to somebody.

Blessings,

Little Susie Home Maker

I am seeing Dots!!

2012-02-15T20:12:00.000-07:00

Good evening everyone! It is time to reveal the Dotty Swap between myself and Mom Wald's Place. Back in January our lovely hostess, Holly from Cutie Pie Cottage organized a most wonderful swap. She wanted to hold her very first Dotty Swap. It was a great idea and many responded.

My partner for this swap was Mary and her lovely blog Mom Wald's Place. Thanks Holly for all the fun!

Mary, packed me the prettiest 3 packages in the cutest red and pink dotty tissue.

The first package that I opened had this pretty little refrigerator notepad with this wide-eyed owl on it.

And Mary wrote this kind little note. She included a yummy little box of Jelly Bellies!

The second little package had the most precious little hand made clutch in it!

Look at the pretty fabric, different shades of pink and green dots, with tiny kittens and flowers, also in bright green shades! The inside lining is a light green with white dots.

Mary hand quilted these layers together with many brightly colored embroidery floss circles, or dots! The little flap is held together with tiny snaps. I can't wait to use this! It is such a handy size, and ready for Spring time!

On to the third package.. That is Harley there on the table having fun discovering what is inside. He is curious! Yes this is so exciting...

It is the prettiest hand embroidered linen towel. Look at the little saucer with red polka dots! Oh, my it is tumbling around, dots are all around the towel! Doesn't it look happy!

Look how pretty all of this is. I am just so happy! The linen towel is so pretty, too It has such a pretty edge and embossed floral, that is hard to see in the picture. Mary did the most delicate stitching. The red will be perfect with all my kitchen accessories. I think I may use it as a table center topper for the dining room.

This picture is sideways, I don't know why, because when I transfer it from the computer, it is not.. so look sideways..

This is my Harley, he is always in the middle of all my crafting, so he was interested in what Mary sent as well.

Here is another close up of the pretty tea cup stitching...

Mary you have been a wonderful partner in this swap. Thank you so much for all the time and effort you put into these beautiful exchange of gifts!

I pray that Mary likes the Dots I sent her as much as I will enjoy mine!

My dotty gifts for Mary

Here is a sneek peek at what I made and sent to Mary, but go see for yourself!


Dotty tags I made for Mary. That is Harley's paw in the bottom left corner! He likes them too!

Holly, Thanks so much for having such a fun swap!

God bless you all!

Little Susie Home Maker

"Hoo" Wants a Valentine?

2012-02-14T18:11:00.001-07:00

Not a long post.

Just want to wish my friends a Happy Valentine's Day!

I think these little wide eyed owls are just so cute. Don't you?

Blessings,

Little Susie Home Maker

Seven Random Things About Susie

2012-02-12T16:17:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I hope you are all doing great. February is well on its way, and here in Colorado, we have been enjoying a lot of snow and freezing temperatures. Well, maybe we are not always enjoying it, but it sure looks pretty!

If you haven't visited White Wolf Summit Farm Girl, go take a peek and let Heidi know I sent you! She really is a great gal, and has a very nice blog. I am really happy that Heidi and I have met through blogging, and that we can follow each other this way.

To my joyful surprise, Heidi awarded Little Susie Home Maker with The Versatile Blogger Award! She asked me if I would accept it.

Oh, me, oh, my... Yes I will! Thank you Heidi!

It is so kind of you to notice my little blog and sure appreciate the recognition!

Here are the rules for the Versatile Blogger Award-

Add the award to your blog.
Thank the blogger who gave it to you.
Mention seven random things about yourself. (see below)
List the rules.
Award to 15 bloggers.
Inform each of those 15 by leaving a comment on their blog.

Seven Random Things about Susie
1. My favorite kind of food is Mexican.
2. I wish I owned my own pottery kiln.
3. I learned to play Fiddle by ear when I was a teen.
4. My favorite color is green, but most people think it is red.
5. I cry everytime I watch Titanic.
6. I can never remember peoples names when I first meet them. (I hate this)
7. I would rather spend time with my family that any other thing.

I award the following 15 Blogs with The Versitile Blog Award:

Wow, That was fun picking these blogs and my list could have gone on...

I have had so much fun reading, learning, and exploring these blogs. I have had fun choosong these blogs to pass this award along, and hope they accept them, But even if they don't (I know eveyone doesn't do this) I still hope you visit, because they are great blogs!

Bless you Heidi, and thank you for reading my blog.

Happy Blogging everyone!

Blessings,

Little Susie Home Maker

These Cupcakes say LOVE

2012-02-06T10:29:00.000-07:00


Pretty cupcakes, yummy!

My favorite cupcake say, "Love", by the hands of my children.

Today, I am bringing you a reminder that some of the simplest things bring the greatest pleasure.

I know that there are so many wonderful recipes, and cute and beautiful decorating ideas for cupcakes that are really nice.

But to just get in the kitchen with your kids and make a simple box of their favorite flavor of cake mix into cupcakes, seems magical.

They enjoy their accomplishments!

Don't forget the frosting that comes already made and some sprinkles.

I keep a large variety of sprinkles on hand.

We make the batter and fill the pretty paper cups, set the timer and bake.

When the timer goes off, the children can hardly wait for them to cool.

I let my children open the frosting and decorate to her own content!

They are so pretty and so yummy. Each one made with love.

Don't forget to let them lick the spoon! My favorite part. as well.

Remember to really enjoy your kids.

Let them have fun, and show off their cupcakes with the family!

These are Cupcakes that really say LOVE.

Blessings,

Little Susie Home Maker

I am thankful for my children.

I am linking with

<script src="http://www.linkytools.com/thumbnail_linky_include.aspx?id=130110" type="text/javascript" ></script>The Country Home Maker Blog Hop

Maybe I'm Just "Small Fry"

2012-01-29T17:02:00.000-07:00

Ever feel like you are too small to matter?

Maybe just not good enough, or strong enough, smart enough, big enough?

Don't!

Everyone matters.

Be a "Good Egg" with a "Heart of Gold"

Phil 4:13................"I can do all things through Christ whostrengthens me."

Blessings,

Susie

Google Changes & Followers

2012-01-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

March 31, 2012 Google will be making many changes..

As I visit my favorite blogs, I see many comments and confusion.

I am also confused, but have decided to post some links here on this post and hope that maybe some of this confusion can be filtered through.

I know that we all care about our blogs and our followers and the blogs we follow.

Please feel free to add any comments that may help us figure this out.

QUESTION:

Do we need to add a google+ account?

yesterdayontuesday
googlereader.blogspot.com

chicgeek, tech tips
techcrunch

Blessings,

Little Susie Home Maker

Bear's Fashion Debut

2012-01-22T22:30:00.000-07:00

Bear's Fashion Debut

Introducing Baby Bear

If you want to read more about Bear

you can find him here.

Please click on the above link!

I am also linking with FURSday at Ruby Jean

Bear Love, My Pekingese Crocheted Sweater!

2012-01-22T18:33:00.000-07:00

Baby Bear in his new crocheted red sweater!

I have crocheted a cute little red sweater for my pekingese, Bear!

I had an urge to make it, and was quite surprised at how it just came to develop off of my hook!

Wow! I am quite pleased with how it came out!

He is a sweety and was so eager to wear his new little outfit that Momma made for him!

He knows he looks pretty.

Now of course he is it just so darn cute.. I can't stand it!

I love Bear, he was my Dear Hubby's Valentine gift to me three years ago, and he is truly a gift of pure love!

I am so thankful for my Little Baby Bear!

Loving my Bear with a new coat!

Finding yet another way to love someone with yarn.

Blessings,

Little Susie Home Maker

Linking to Rednesday

Blessed Little Barn Fresh Eggs

2012-01-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

My lovely hens are always supplying me with the best tasting eggs on the planet! And they are so pretty too, don't you think?

The pale green basket I found at Hobby Lobby last spring, and I love it!

Today I am thankful once more for the little red barn or the large red coop (which ever you prefer to call it), in the back yard. It has been built with love by my dear sweet husband! He is so good at this kind of stuff!

I have to admit my girls have been a little "cooped up" this winter. They love the summer when I give them a lot of free time to wander through our yard to Free-Range.

Getting back out of the gate, while they are trying to bust out is kind of comical!

But on these warm winter days, they still have plenty of there own chicken yard space and love greeting me and eating any scraps I have to offer!

Thank you girls for todays eggs!

Blessings,

Little Susie Home Maker

Linking to Rednesday

Dotty Swap

2012-01-14T14:16:00.000-07:00

There is a new swap in Blog Town!

Dotty Swap at Cutie Pie Cottage, and Holly is hosting one for the very first time! I have decided to join and you can too. So get on over there and check out the details. One thing for sure, it is going to be fun!

Thanks Holly!

Blessings from Little Susie Home Maker

Computer needs suntan lotion!

2012-01-07T22:59:00.000-07:00

Guess What? My computer is on vacation. I will make it sound like a nice thing. I guess that is another way of saying "not working"!

So while it is resting, I will try to be a creative blogger, and send a little note out to say...

I just can't wait to show you my next sewing project. I am making something that I need. So I will be figuring out how to make it fun! That will be more fun when I will be able to share pictures!

I also will let you know I am enjoying cooking in my newly remodeled kitchen! It has been so nice to have an operational kitchen again, yay!

Also, my chickens are staying cozy and warm in their coop, even though another snow storm is blowing in tonight! ..Brrrr..

The children are getting back to the Spring semester of school. Hubby is busy at work, and I need to get settled into some routine again.

As with the beginning of every year, I want to dub this the year I will be organized!

But honestly, I just hope it is the year that I really enjoy home and family. Even if things are not organized as much as I feel they should.

I also wish to eat healthier and feel better, but trying out my new kitchen will mean making some of my favorite sweet treats. I love baking and have not been able to in a very long time. So it will also be the year of baking and rediscovering many beautiful foods.

Oh, yummy, I can't wait!

Until then, hope your new year is off to a great start!

And thank you dear daughter for letting me use your netbook for this post!

God Bless you all! Praise Him all day long!

Blessings,

Susie

Blessed 2012

2012-01-02T12:31:00.001-07:00

Wishing everyone a very Blessed 2012!
Looking forward to an new excitng year with many Blessings to be thankful for.
Love each other and Give God the Glory!

Little Susie Home Maker

I did it!

2011-12-27T15:17:00.002-07:00

I feel like a prize boxer that just won after nine rounds!
Because I finally got my blog page updated from the Christmas theme!
I do not feel defeated that it has taken me way more time than I think it should!

I mean.. I am victorious, because after several hours,
it looks like a pretty good rendition of what I feel is the the theme of my blog!

Boy.. this blogging is not easy to get the hang of,
but I am doing much better now after a few months of attempting to start my blog.

I am sooo happy to all my new friends and followers!
Thank you for reading my posts!
It has been so fun getting to know you all, and visit those of you with your own blogs!

God bless you all!

Little Susie Home Maker

Christmas is a Coming!!

2011-12-08T12:46:00.001-07:00

Every where I go, I am reminded that it is the Christmas season. Santa and his red suit. Red and green colors, lights, and people busy taking packages to the post office. It is a bright and happy time of year.

We got a snow blowing in today, and it's mighty cold outside. The snow is welcome, but not fond of the winds. But it is nice to have some snow blowing around at this time of year. Just because it is so pretty.

I will be getting my last minute preparations in order this week. Waiting for the beautiful Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to spend with family.

I will spend more time getting presents in order, baking holiday goodies, last minute decorating, and preparing for the holiday menu. It will be so exciting to watch the children enjoy the holiday and get together with family and friends.

The gift of my Savoir in which I am so thankful. It is His day to be thought of often and remembered for the greatest gift of all.

Merry Christmas!

Sewn Bird Ornaments

2011-12-08T12:42:00.001-07:00

Home sewn birds on my snow frosted tree.

I thought it might be fun to show you these little birds I am making. I have this love of birds and decided to start making some red ones to decorate my home.

So I started by getting out my paper and drafting a basic bird shape to use as a pattern for cutting out fabric. I chose the red because I am doing a lot of red and white this year, and red is my favorite high light color any time! They are made of fabric and or felt.

I chose pinking sheers to cut out because the raw edges are going to show.

Now I used a decorative stitch in contrasting color to sew on the wings.

So either hand stitched or used sewing machine, which ever you prefer.

I decided to try an embroidered french knot for eyes,

I also used buttons.

Next, I hand sewn in a looped ribbon hanger,

a dab of hot glue is helpful here as well.

Now it is ready to be sewn around the perimeter. Sew on outside with a decorative top stitch. Again, hand or machine, with ever tickles your fancy.

Be sure to leave open a small opening in bottom to stuff the bird a little to plump him up!

After, stuffing, sew him up on bottom and he is finished! I used cotton balls to stuff mine.

They look so cute just hanging around!

Added some more embroidery and some loopy ribbons on the tail.

Here are a few close ups.

I really like the way way they look on my real snow frosted tree outside!

These little guys are fun to make, and I bet you could make them with many different little personalities.

I think they will be around for a while at my house.

Blessings,

Little Susie Home Maker

Our Tags are Swapped!

2011-12-06T12:30:00.001-07:00

It's time to share with my blog the Christmas Tag Swap 2011 that Sue over at It's a Very Cherry World hosted! Thank you, Sue! What fun this has been. My partner in this was the wonderful, Deb of Garage Sale Gal! Deb is an amazing person and I love her blog, so if you haven't checked it out, I really hope you do, and tell her I said "Hi"!

Now for the fun! We set out in November to start making a tag that we would swap with our partners. I had never read Deb's blog before, but quickly knew she had a blog to follow. I found out that Deb is an avid collector of antiques and vintage finds. She also, has a love for her dear family pet dogs. She has several pictures posted on her blog of family Pit Bull Terriers.

I wanted to make her tag personal, so I used these as clues to how I would design her gift tag. But I will show you my results later. Now, our packages had been mailed to each other, and I was getting nervous about our exchange. You know, the good kinda nervous, where you just can't wait. Then finally it happened, and I got my pretty little package in the mail! Oh, it was so pretty wrapped in a golden angelic Christmas wrapping paper with the mailing label on top! My it is already looking good!

After removing the decorative paper, I discovered this charming little gift box inside. Deb is great at reusing pretty things, as this was a stationary box, that was sturdy and delightful. I can use this box to store my pretty treasures in!

I opened the box with anticipation, and wow! Look at this beautiful little tag! Jesus is the Reason for the Season.

It has been stamped and embossed in the stunning golden and green glitter. And a pretty ribbon. It looks elegant and I am very pleased! But look.. it is resting on top of white glitter tissue paper.

I fold back the tissue paper to reveal what is inside..
A little box of treasures, with this nice note from my new friend, Deb.

And look at all the vintage goodies.. a Santa and a Snowman cupcake topper!

I will play house with these and the white glitter Church ornament, and a little tree from a snow scene!

A really charming old Nativity Christmas card, and a beautiful Christmas ornament of a church. A vintage Christmas post card, too.

Now here is a special tag. This must be the special one!
If you look close here there is a little pin tack of some chickadees on a sprig of holly.
Now isn't that a clever idea?
I love chickadees! Some of my favorite little buddies just outside my window every day!

The tag background is a gold embossed doily, with red gems in each corner!

The pretty gem studded Christmas tree and the Merry Christmas banner are raised for a 3-D effect!
Very Nice!
The tie is a red, green and gold cord with tassel.
Elegant! Deb, it's just great.

Oh, look.. a tag that Deb made from an old vintage Christmas print of a snow man. Isn't he cute!

There are some chocolate goodies. Yummy!!

There is a oh so pretty little vintage Poinsettia handkerchief. Isn't the most delightful handkerchief?

As I start to reveal all that is in the box, I am so overwhelmed with the kindness that she has shared with me.
Deb has taken the time to really put an effort into our swap, and I am thrilled with the tags and other goodies she has included for me.

Deb, you are so kind, Thank You! Thank you So very much. You have made me happy.

I am really hoping that Deb is going to like my swap that I sent to her. We can check out what she thinks over at her blog, Garage Sale Gal.

But here is a sneak peek...

Merry Christmas to all!
Blessings,
Little Susie Home Maker

Salt Dough Ornaments

2011-12-04T17:43:00.000-07:00

If you feel like getting your hands into your Christmas crafts, this is the perfect one! You can definitely include your children and have a lot of fun with this, too. So with just three simple common house hold ingredients lets whip up a batch of Salt Dough.

Salt Dough Recipe

1 cup salt
2 cups all purpose flour
1 cup cold to luke warm water

Mix salt and flour together in a large bowl.
Then slowly add in the water and stir well, until it begins to form a consistency of dough.
Knead the dough for 5 minutes, adding a few more drops of water as needed (but not making it too moist). The dough will become smoother, the more you knead it.

Directions to make ornaments

That simple.. now you can divided and roll it out about 1/8 - 1/4 inch thickness. Keep unused dough in airtight container or plastic wrap.
Use cookie cutters, or create shapes like you would with playdough. It's up to you and your imagination. Have fun.
For hanging ornaments use a straw to punch out holes in "cookie" to thread a ribbon through after finished. You can also push a wire ornament hanger or paper clip into it to dry in place.
Then let the ornaments dry on cookie racks or wax paper for about 2 days, turning occasionally.
Optional baking method to dry ornaments and get a little golden color, bake at 200*F in oven on cookie sheets with aluminum foil gently laying over top to prevent too much browning. Drying time depends on humidity, and your oven.
I like to heat for 200*F in the evening for a few hours while I can monitor them. Then leave them in oven overnight with the heat turned off. They will usually be dry in the morning, unless they were very thick to begin with. If not dry in the morning, just monitor at 200*F until they dry, another hour should be long enough. Or just let air dry for the rest of the day. Watch you don't burn them!

After drying decorate

Acrylic paints, fabric paints, puff paints, glitter, ribbons, etc.
Gingerbread men and Christmas cookies are very fun to decorate with puff fabric paint. Looks just like icing!
You can also leave plain. That works, too.
Make a pretty hanger with ribbons.

Longevity

Finally, spraying your dough craft with polyurethane or varnish, will seal them and make them last for years to come. But this is optional.

The main thing is to have fun with family and friends of all ages. Get your do-dads ready and have fun making what ever you can imagine. Then you get to bake them in your own oven. Watch a Christmas movie or eat lunch, cookies, cocoa, etc. Then after a few hours decorate, or decorate the next day. Just enjoy!

I hope this is a fun Christmas craft to share.

Blessings,

Susie

Me and Christmas

2011-11-30T10:27:00.001-07:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?

I really love wrapped presents.

But I enjoy the time you save on bags, so I do both!

2. Real tree or Artificial?

I really wish I said real tree because they are so lovely, and smell good.

But the truth is my trusty artificial one is going on 17 years, I believe?

It makes me sad to see a tree chopped down.

We live on a prairie and have spent just under the last two decades planting

hundreds of trees and shrubs on our property, turning it into a little wild life haven,

so I really value the living life of a tree.

3. When do you put up the tree?

Usually, we wait until a weekend night just about 2-3 weeks before Christmas.

We like to make a family event out of this, with music and holiday treats.

The kids want to hear the stories behind every ornament!

4. When do you take the tree down?

I like to take the tree down just before New Years Eve.

My kitties have been sleeping in the branches and tearing down the ornaments long enough!

Ha ha, they think the tree is for them, sillies!

5. Do you like eggnog?

I love Eggnog! My whole family will slurp it down before I get a taste!

We are holiday eggnog junkies.

I love to use it in my coffee.

6. Favorite gift received as a child?

I remember the year I got "Baby Bunny"!

She was a pretty little baby doll that was mechanical.

She moved her arms up and down,

and could be place on a riding bunny.

With her arms extended and her kicking away,

it was fun to play that she was galloping along on a bunny!

Hey, I wonder whatever happened to her!

Does anyone else remember this toy?

7. Hardest person to buy for?

Teen age girls, and most men, like brother-laws.

I just can't seem to get it right all the time.

They boggle my creativity!

8. Easiest person to buy for?

My mom, she is always happy no matter what,

and I do love to make her happy.

I will include my teenage daughter second here,

because she is good about letting me know her interests.

9. Do You have a nativity scene?

I have a store bought one,

that I add little animals from the local feed store toy area.

I also have one I made from hand built clay

that I made in my early college days!

10.Mail or email Christmas cards?

I mail real cards to my recipients through the post office.

I always enclose pictures of my kids.

I think this is one time of year to really enjoy checking our mail boxes.

You really don't get the same feeling with e-mail cards.

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?

Dare I say it is a tie?

One year I received a bottle of wrinkle cream (I was in my 20's)

and the next year I received an empty wrapped pink box.

It boggled my mind a little? Was this a sly insult?

(same person)

12. Favorite Christmas Movie?

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer...every years since I was a kid

this has been on TV, and then I finally feel like,

"Okay, now it is Christmas"!

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas?

Hit after Christmas sales if anything is what I can store for a year.

But mostly, sporadically in November, The frantically in December!

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?

Only once, and I got caught!

It was a tin of hard Christmas candies,

I let my daughter re-gift it to her 1st grade teacher.

When I went to pick her up from school she thanked us for it

and my daughter told her,

"Yes, my mom was glad she never ate it last year

when she got it!"

I was really embarrassed.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?

Homemade Tamales!

Started with Grandma Josie!

Yummy family tradition.

16. Lights on the tree?

Yes, lights! Of course.. and lots and lots of them.

But I don't like it to look like a wiry mess,

so, I go up and down and around each branch.

Takes a while but is worth it!

17.Travel at Christmas or stay home?

We don't travel far.

The family almost all live within a 75 mile radius,

so we take turns at mom and dads

or my another family member home!

18. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning?

Christmas morning my kids wake me and my husband up,

or so they think.. and we open our gifts.

spend Christmas Eve with my husbands family, and gift exchange,

and Christmas Day with my family and gift exchange.

Now it is your turn to play and post this little questionnaire.

Come back to let me know so I can read your answers.
Have fun getting to know each other. No wrong answers!

So go ahead and play along!

Merry Christmas!

Little Susie Home Maker

Chocolate Chip Cookies in Jar

2011-11-27T16:05:00.001-07:00

Christmas is a wonderful time to share all your handcrafted talents. I wonder how many of you give away hand made gifts this time of year? What percentage of gifts you make? I know that I always make something for someone with my own two hands. I also prefer these gifts. These are gifts with real heart put into them.

I have been known to be in my kitchen on Christmas Eve, still putting together all the layered cookie ingredients in a jar. (I have the recipe below.) Yes, I sometimes am that bad! It's usually not that I wait, it's that I plan too much for too many people. So being a little more organized and figuring out just how much time you can spend each day before gift giving day is essential! That is something I am going to focus on for the rest of this season.

So plan on relaxing and enjoying the time you spend with your close ones, and enjoy the time you put into the hand made gifts you make. I am off now, to finish some pretty tree ornaments!

Chocolate Chip Cookies in a Jar

1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda

Mix together salt and baking soda with the flour. Layer the ingredients into a 1 quart, wide mouth jar.

Cut out a 9 inch-diameter circle from pretty fabric of your choice. Place over lid, and secure with pretty covered hair rubber band. Or you can tie on a raffia or ribbon.

Attach a card with the following baking directions.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Add ingredients in bold to mix in jar

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
In a large bowl, cream 1 cup of unsalted butter or margarine until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Mix in cookie mix.
Drop teaspoonfuls of dough, spaced well apart, onto a greased cookie sheet.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in preheated oven, or until lightly browned.
Cool on wire racks.
Makes 4 dozen

Farewell Fall Leaves

2011-11-26T15:36:00.001-07:00

With Thanksgiving past, and what a wonderful time it was, I am now switching gears to prepare for Christmas. For me this means saying farewell to the gorgeous Autumn color pallet.

I will first take down all my Autumn leaf garlands and little pumpkins and gourds, etc. Out with the oranges, yellows, reds and browns. What a pretty pallet of colors.

This always makes me a little sad because I don't believe my Harvest theme gets enough time to be on display. Next year I must start right in September!

Just like my pretty trees, the leaves just start to glisten in gold and a cold snap hits and BOOM! They all drop to the ground! Don't blink or you will miss it.
So I decided to share a couple of pictures I took of my large Cottonwood tree that was in full golden beauty just a few week ago. I really believe that trees change to these fire colors in the Fall so we will look at them in awe. Not to mention, make us feel as if we are really the worlds greatest photographers.

It is really God that does all the work, but He gives us these beautiful views to photograph, paint, or just enjoy. We can feel good about it. Thank you Father for the beautiful Autum color pallet! I love it.

Hope you enjoy my trees pretty fall colored leaves!

Blessings,
Susie

Liebster Blog Award...My Picks!

2011-11-22T13:30:00.001-07:00

Liebster Blog ...
I received such a wonderful surprise! While looking at a comment on my Date Bars I received a message from Shirley of Zetta's Aprons. She informed me that she has chosen me to be one of her picks for the Liebster Blog Award. This award is to showcase up and coming blogs with less than 200 followers.

I am very happy to be recognized from a fellow blogger. I have only started my blog and want it to be a blessing. This award has made me feel blessed. It is a rewarding feeling to know that someone is enjoying my blog and wants to share that feeling with others. Thank you kindly, Shirley. If you haven't visited her blog, I urge you to soon.

Below you will find my picks. Congratulations, I pray that your blogs are a blessing and that anyone reading this post will take a peek at my blog pick's for this award, as well. They have been fun and rewarding for me to read.

Donna at Donnas Lavender Nest
Lady Farmer at Lady Farmer Parables
Connie at The Life of an Ordinary Hausfrau
Soraya at faith hope love
Linda at Linda Ruthie's Aprons

The rules are to copy and post the award pic to your blog; thank and link back to the person who gave you the award. Then pick 5 more blogs and leave them a comment.

I enjoy my picks, they are really the best. Thanks for letting me get to know you and bless you all!

Little Susie Home Maker

Date Bars

2011-11-13T15:27:00.001-07:00

While going through our recipes, mymom and I stumbled upon a favorite old time recipe. We upgraded to ourown tastes, but not much different from a recipe that Quaker Oats printedon the box decades ago. Originally this was a dessert square, but we decidedthat it makes a great Little Susie Home Maker breakfast bar, or snack whenindividually wrapped in plastic wrap and served on the go. The long rectanglecut instead of squares, makes them perfect for dunking in milk, tea or coffee. So Iwanted to share this recipe and let you enjoy it as a dessert, or breakfast orsnack on the run. I have inserted a few options for you to adjust to your liking,which we all like to do to recipes, anyways. If you try these out, come back andcomment on how you like to serve it. I would love to hear from you!

DateBars

1-3/4 cups old-fashioned oats

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup (2-sticks) cold butter, cubed

2-1/2 cups chopped dates

3/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup water

1 teaspoon vanilla (or rum) extract

1/2 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)

In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda and salt.Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press firmly into a 13x9inch, baking pan.

In a large saucepan, combine the dates, sugar and water. (Use an electrichand chopper blender while still cool to puree the dates a little finer ifpossible. This puree can also be done prior to putting in pan, in a foodprocessor, but this step is not necessary. This makes a smoother topping. Omitthis step if a chewier date is preferred.) Cook for 10 minutes or untilthickened, stirring frequently. Stir in nuts and extract. Spread over crust.

Bake at 350* for 30 minutes. Cool on a wirerack. Cut into rectangles 1x3 inches. Serve or store in air tight container.

Little Susie Home Maker's Favorite Pumpkin Pie

2011-11-05T16:22:00.000-06:00

Can you think about Thanksgiving without thinking about Pumpkin Pie? I know I can't. It is probably the most popular Thanksgiving dessert. Yes, the Pumpkin Pie is famous. So, I wonder just what is the perfect one? Is it the one Grandma used to make? Is it Mama's special touch? Maybe Uncle Joe's was the best, but don't forget the great cook books, or bakeries. Now many people love canned pumpkin, and there is the completely from scratch group. Who can turn down the throw in the oven frozen kind? I have also come to realize that the Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie, can be a matter of great baking contests! You know the kind of competition, I am talking about. Who will get boasting rights this year? Some people believe that, if you you want it done right, you have to make it yourself. Others, believe that someone else can provide it, and that's the best way to go.

Here is my answer to this perfect pie. I truly believe that the best Pumpkin Pie, is the one shared with family and friends. The pie is a back drop to wonderful memories, and a delight to your palette and a comfort to your tummy. This is what forms my favorite pumpkin pie. It's the memories. We share these memories and make new ones every year with the Pumpkin Pie! Memories of the one that we laughed about which I made with my niece when she was only two, and she dumped a heap of cinnamon into the mix, it was great! The first one I cooked for my dear parents to enjoy, and hopefully to critique it well! Maybe, I can remember my nerves from my first time hosting Thanksgiving dinner, and the pie we shared together. Actually, every single pie that has ever been served with love from my mom, and the special crust from my dad; these are very warm memories with pumpkin pie. My mom remembers the one year that I carved out tiny maple leaves from the crust and carefully arranged them around the edge of the pie crust, with a large maple leaf shape baked in the middle of the pie. It sure was pretty! Thanks, Momma. I won't forget serving pumpkin pie to my Grandpa when I was younger, feeling I could take credit for his happiness, just for serving him a slice!

I can't choose a favorite Pumpkin Pie, but I can sure stir up some beautiful memories when I try! That's really it, the beautiful memories of the thanks we shared with our loved ones over the years, and those to come. That is what makes this pie so special. Thank You Heavenly Father for our wonderful Pumpkin Pie memories!

Just in case you do need a Pumpkin Pie Recipe, Here is one you can borrow from me with my pleasure. I pray that you can serve your Pumpkin Pie this year with lots of warm memories.

Little Susie Home Maker's Favorite Pumpkin Pie

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
11/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 large eggs (Farm fresh if available)
1 can (15 oz.) canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix)
1 can (12 fl. oz.) evaporated milk
1 unbaked 9-inch (4-cup volume) deep-dish pie shell
Whipped cream (optional)

Directions

PREHEAT oven to 425° F

MIX the first six dry ingredients in a medium bowl. In a large separate bowl, beat the eggs with a wire whip until smooth. Add pumpkin and stir, carefully adding in the dry ingredients mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk using wisk or a hand mixer.

POUR into a prepared pie shell.

BAKE in oven for 15 minutes at 425° F then reduce temperature to 350° F; bake for another 45 minutes until done. Pie is done when knife inserted near center comes out clean.

COOL completely for 2 hours on wire rack.

SERVE with you favorite whipped cream and enjoy with your dearest ones!

Share the Memories!
Little Susie Home Maker

It's A Very Cherry World!: CHRISTMAS TAG SWAP

2011-10-29T16:15:00.000-06:00

Right now, many of us crafters and home made gifters are realizing that the Holidays are gearing up, and we have lots of ideas running through our heads! Recently, I decided to participate in a Christmas Tag Swap over at It's A Very Cherry World!: CHRISTMAS TAG SWAP and can't wait to start mine. This is going to be fun!

I want to invite anyone to join in on this, and trade one tag with another person who signs up. This isn't too over whelming and is great way to meet other bloggers or people interested in reading blogs. We can show off our talents make new friends and have fun! I wonder if I will only make one.. just saying.. sounds addictive!

So go over and sign up, leave a comment, and tell her who sent ya! Leave a comment with me, too. Happy Tagging!

Keeping Warm

2011-10-26T10:06:00.000-06:00

Woke up this morning and yes it has snowed and it is cold! I think we should make a nice pot of warm beans and chile. Cover up with our blankies, and drink cocoa all day long! But the kids still got to go to school and my hubby is off to work. It is interesting the way it is so warm one day and freezing the next, here in Colorado. But I love that it is surely almost always going to be sunshine and warm again in a few days. That's the way the weather rolls here. So I feel a little romanticized by the first few snow falls. Thinking of the loving little ways we can stay warm.

I think I will share the little chicken in her sweater. I found this picture circulated through the web, not sure of it's source, but obviously this little chicken sweater was created with love. Now I have to try and make one. Look at her wrapped up in love. How cute is that? Now I can think about combining my love of crocheting with my love for my chickens. Do you like to warm your loved ones with yarn?

I would love to hear about any warming little project you are working on. Here is a picture of some Corny Bags I made with a friend over the weekend. They are made with flannel and maybe a cover of printed fabric sewn into a little pillow. Leave one end open and fill with whole cleaned dry corn. I got a 50 lb bag at the feed store. You may also used whole rice, or barley from the grocery store if you just want to make one or two.

Since I think it is so much fun to craft with others. We had a little party sewing and filling these little warmers. After you sew the end shut you have a bag that is ready for the microwave, 3-4 minutes. It comes out as warm sweet smelling little heated pillow. Also therapeutic for stiff muscles. (Be careful not to let rest on bare skin, they may get pretty warm.) Good for hand warmers, bed warmers, bread warmers, let your imagination sore. Little ones just right for pocket size in jackets, micro 1-2 minutes instead. You have to try these for gifts.

So now I off to figure out how to start my crock pot for a warm dinner tonight. Hoping this blog warms you up too.

Heart Felt Breakfast Time

2011-10-23T12:49:00.000-06:00

Ever get up in the morning and just want to make a yummy breakfast that fills the stomach? That is how I woke up feeling. The family mornings are so rushed during the week, that we usually enjoy a fast bowl of cereal. or a yogurt parfait, or a scrambled egg and toast. Today we have time to relax and enjoy our family breakfast!

I decide to start with these oh so pretty red potatoes and begin to peel them, when I realize that the pink skins are just wonderful to look at and remember that is where all the nutrition and flavor are, so it inspires me to go full flavor.

I get the electric skillet and add a half pound of bacon to start sizzling away and decide to forget peeling the rest of the potatoes. I rough dice them in my hands, (that's how I like to do it) straight down onto the bacon below!

Of course with the bacon fat for flavor, I simple season the potatoes with course ground black pepper, sea salt and just a few shakes of garlic powder (yes, I like powdered garlic for this because it add flavor quickly).

As I begin to stir, the potatoes and bacon are sizzling, I think about all I have learned over the years to avoid saturated fats. Dare I serve food cooked in bacon grease?

Happily, I tell myself.. yes, because this is an indulgence breakfast, not a daily breakfast. That's my reasoning , anyways!

I am very pleased with how awesome they have cooked. They have crisped and browned up rather nicely. Look at how handsome they look in my serving bowl. Yummy!

Now it's time for my wonderful, fresh from the chicken coop eggs. My girls have done such a wonderful job off laying the most beautiful, tasteful eggs. I decide to fry them, too.

I make the choice for filling the skillet with a little canola oil and add the eggs to the pan. I can't believe my delight in cooking these pretty eggs! Look at how the yolks are so plump and fresh.

I decide that I am going to fry with the glass lid on high heat. Basically, a poached egg in oil. I can peek through the glass lid and wait for the yolks to puff up and turn pink. My anticipation is building!

This process is pretty quick. I carefully remove the lid, venting any steam or grease away from me from the back side first. Don't want to get burned.

The eggs are ready for plating. Just look at them.

I tell my family, "Breakfast is served! Come and get it!"
They seem to be delighted, and so am I! What a blessing!

I love having the time to share a hearty breakfast with my family. I pray, you do, too!

Blogging is not always easy

2011-10-19T13:52:00.000-06:00

First of all thank you from the bottom of my heart, to anybody that is reading my blog!

Secondly, I am having a hard time trying to figure this blogging thing out! So bear with me as I try to make improvements to my layout. I have not figured out how to add other blog buttons, etc. Would love to share. I have many ideas, just not really getting them onto the blog as easily as I thought I would, ha ha!
You other bloggers make it look easy! I love to follow you!

I hope I can figure this out!

Pretty Pullets

2011-10-17T11:35:00.000-06:00

Introducing a few of my pretty pullets! They are really enjoying the time they spend under my chokecherry bushes. The girls and a few boys about 30 in all, love to spend time out of their chicken run amongst my flowers and gardens free ranging and running to the back door for any vegetable or bread scraps I have to offer!

I have been keeping chickens now, since spring of 2000. It is a most wonderful and rewarding hobby! I never fail to get excited to see how many pretty little eggs they have laid for me each day! Many of my friends, family, and neighbors refer to me as The Egg Lady. A title I happily wear with a smile and a sense of pride!

Yes, you will here me blog about "My Girls" often, and so proud of my masterly looking Roosters, so strong proud and caring. Of course the fresh eggs are the biggest hit, with rich creamy dark yolks! Yummy. So, go ahead, and if you don't keep chickens and raise farm fresh eggs. I urge you to find your own local egg lady. It is a huge blessing all the way around! Enjoy!!

Jumping In With Both Feet

2011-10-11T14:49:00.000-06:00

I find myself a little apprehensive to start projects in my life. True to form, this blog is one of them. I believe it is this tiny voice inside of me that is afraid of being criticized. So I have to talk back to the voice and say, "Really? What is there to be so afraid of? Do your best and try it. As long as I feel my actions are a blessing to the people around me, or will bless me back, or most importantly, be a blessing to Our Heavenly Father, then I should just give it a shot." That is the green light. Don't let fear be your guide.
Green light is on and I will pray that my blog is a blessing!

Blog Blessings

2011-09-21T12:45:00.000-06:00

Hello! I am happy to start my very first blog! Oh, to blog, or not to blog, that is the question? I have so many beautiful little blessings around me every day that I feel the desire to share them with you. I wake up, breath the air and am pleased to know that a new day has begun again! That is the first blessing of the day! I hope you can look at all the wonderful blessing you have in your day as well. Even one blessing is a good blessing!