Happy Birthday To You!

Happy Birthday to Alayna from Zady Ball

Tuesday, February 16th

Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

1 box (18 ounces) Yellow Cake Mix
2 1/2 Cups Quick Cooking Oats
3/4 Cup Butter, melted
2 - 2 1/2 Cups Strawberry Jam* or Spread
1 Tablespoon Water*

♥ Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and grease a 9 x 13 pan.

♥ In a large bowl, mix together the oats, cake mix and the butter, so that is makes nice clumps and there is no dry mix left.

♥ Press half of the oats/cake mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, pressing them into the corners.

♥ In a separate bowl mix the water and the jam together.

♥ Spread the jam mixture evenly over the crust.

♥ Sprinkle the remaining oats/cake mixture of the top,
pressing down slightly.

♥ Bake in the middle of the oven for 18 to 23 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.

♥ Cool before cutting into the bars.

Footnote:
I used a strawberry spread instead of a jam,
no need to use the water to thin it out.

Substitute lemon juice for the water.

Substitute raspberry for strawberry.

Substitute a lemon cake mix.

Drizzle powdered sugar or melted chocolate on the top.

I cut the bars out with a heart shaped cookie cutter.

I would also consider using parchment paper.

20 of the Best Romantic Movies

Make it a romance with your sweetie this Valentines Day!

♥ Casablanca ~ 1942

♥ Gone With The Wind ~ 1939

♥ West Side Story ~ 1961

♥ Roman Holiday ~ 1953

♥ An Affair to Remember ~ 1957

♥ The Way We Were ~ 1973

♥ Doctor Zhivago ~ 1965

♥ It's A Wonderful Life ~ 1946

♥ Love Story ~ 1970

♥ City Lights ~ 1931

♥ Annie Hall ~ 1977

♥ My Fair Lady ~ 1964

♥ Out of Africa ~ 1985

♥ The African Queen ~ 1951

♥ Wuthering Heights ~ 1939

♥ Singing in the Rain ~ 1952

♥ Moonstruck ~ 1987

♥ Vertigo ~ 1958

♥ Ghost ~ 1990

♥ From here to Eternity ~ 1953


Footnote:
Ten of the top movies on this list were all made before 1960

Be Mine, Baby

Sweet Baby of Mine!

♥ Four Layer Crochet Flower Headband by Totz Hatz and sells for $8.95

♥ Flora the Love Bird Plushie by KLT Works and sells for $39.00

♥ Valentines Tutu by Diva Baby Designs and sells for $35.00

♥ Heart Bodysuit by Funky Monkey Threads and sells for $12.99

♥ My Baby Love Tee by Joey and Aleethea and sells for $30.00

♥ Tattoo Heart by Mini Monster and sells for $12.00

♥ Sweetheart Diaper Cover by Sherbet Baby and sells for $20.00

♥ Valentines Hair Clips by Sweet Sara Designs and sells for $6.00

♥ Little Lady Elephant by Sweet Little Jack and sells for $12.00

♥ Hugs and Kisses Pacifier Clip by Booger and Tash and sells for $5.00

♥ Triple Layer Bow Band by Tater Tots Boutique and sells for $10.00

♥ Love Me Mary Janes by Bella Symphony and sells for $18.00

100 Ways To Say I Love You

What better way to tell your spouse,
"I love you", than to say it 100 times?

Forget the flowers and boxed candy and make a Jar of Love!

Supplies:

1 Canning Jelly Jar

100 Love Sheets, measuring 1/2" by 3"
Ribbon, for decoration

♥ Hand print or type 100 "Love" notes with all the things you love about your spouse.

♥ Decorate the lid with ribbon.

Team EtsyBABY© Welcomes....

Team EtsyBABY has the pleasure of introducing 2 new members!

For cute gifts for babies and children visit BabySmith! All of her items are made to be played with by babies, toddlers and children of all ages. Her items are soft and durable and can be used for many years to come. She offers a wide selection of blocks, balls, quiet books and more!
SweetSmilesBaby has an adorable store filled with lots of very cute diaper covers, patterns, shirts, skirts and more. She has just introduced a NEW style diaper cover called ~ the Classic Bow.

Sweet Rolls for Your Sweetheart

Sweet Rolls


Dough:
1 1/2 Cups Warm Water (105 F to 115 F)
1/2 Cup Sugar
2 Envelopes Dry Yeast
1 Tablespoon Vegetable Oil
1 Teaspoon Salt
3 1/2 Cups All Purpose Flour

Preparation:

Combine the warm water and sugar in a large bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over and let it stand until it becomes foamy (about 6 minutes). Mix in the vegetable oil and salt. Add enough flour, 1 cup at a time, to form a soft dough. Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface. Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic, adding more flour if it's too sticky (about 10 minutes). Lightly oil another large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl; turn to coat with oil and cover the bowl with plastic wrap, then cover with a kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm draft-free area until it has doubled in volume (about an hour).

Frosting:

3 Ounces of Cream Cheese, softened
1/4 Cup Butter, softened
1 1/2 Cups Confectioners Sugar
1/2 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1/8 Teaspoon Salt

Cream the Butter then add the remaining ingredients. This can be made while to the dough is rising and then placed in a container inside the refrigerator.

Cinnamon Roll Center:

1 Cup Brown Sugar
2 1/2 Tablespoons Cinnamon
1/3 Cup Butter, softened
1/2 - 1 Cup Pecans, chopped
(optional inside and topping)

In a small bowl cream the butter and add the remaining ingredients and set aside.

Assembling the rolls:

Roll the dough into a 16 x 21 inch rectangle. Spread the butter mixture evenly over the dough. Roll up the dough and cut into 12 rolls. Place the rolls in a lightly greased 9 x 13 inch backing pan. Cover the rolls and let them rise until they have doubled in size (10-30 minutes). Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and bake the rolls for about 15 minutes or until golden brown. Take the rolls out of the oven and let them cool slightly until frosting the rolls.

Team EtsyBABY© Welcomes....

Team EtsyBABY has the pleasure of introducing 4 NEW members!
If you are looking for adorable hairclips or shoes, stop by Cutienessers. She has a wonderful selection! Great colors and fabrics!
For boutique baby gifts and crib bedding go to MimiandMeg! They are a mother-daughter team who love coming up with fun things to sew for babies and children.
TheClassicBaby is a shop committed to providing one of a kind, timeless, classic clothing that children have worn for generations. All items in her shop are one-of-a-kind, hand sewn and smocked.
Take your time and have a good look around the Lullabyloft. All items are hand made with extra love and special care. No two will be exactly alike. She offers hand embroidered and appliqued items, and loves custom orders ~ embroidery can be added to any gift!

Lentil Soup with Beef

One of the best meals to have during the winter months is something with spice, warmth and feeds the soul. Soup has always been a main stay for the cooler months and it is sturdy and light enough to satisfy. I have never cooked lentil soup and I have always wanted to try. I found that this recipe had a great deal of taste and the beef made it hearty. It turned out to be a good recipe to share. Enjoy!

Lentil Soup with Beef

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 large celery stalks, chopped
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1 large onion, chopped
6 garlic cloves, chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
6 (14-ounce) cans beef broth
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes in juice
2 cups (about 11 ounces) lentils, rinsed
1/3 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves

♥ Heat the oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the beef with salt and pepper. Add half of the beef and cook until brown, about 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the beef to a bowl. Repeat with the remaining beef.

♥ Add the celery, carrots, onion, garlic, rosemary, and oregano to the pot. Saute until the onions are translucent, about 8 minutes. Return the beef and any accumulated juices from the bowl to the pot.

♥ Add the broth and tomatoes with their juice. Bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer until the meat is just tender, stirring occasionally, about 1 hour.

♥ Add the lentils. Cover and continue simmering until the lentils are tender, about 40 minutes.

♥ Stir in the parsley. Season the soup, to taste, with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve.

EtsyBABY Valentines Day Challenge

The Challengers!

Left to Right:

♥ Valentines Photo Album by Alphabulous

♥ Heart Shaped Pillow by Tiges and Weince

♥ Valentines Body Suit by Little Tumble Weeds

♥ Lucy the Love Bug by Imogens Garden

♥ Fuzzy Legs Leg Warmers by Posh Pips Squek

♥ Valentines Day Felt Cookies by Claire and Janae

♥ Bee Mine Valentine Tee by Daisy Creek

♥ Valentines Wood Plaque by Growin Like A Weed

♥ Valentines Day Birdie Card by Trendy Peas

♥ Red Octopus Poncho by Elise Hooper Designs

♥ Valentines Cashmere Blanket by MRowe

♥ Swing Skirt/Headband Set by Aunty Ann Designs

♥ Damask Skirt/Tee Set by Hot Tots Bowtique

♥ Love is in the Air Quilt by Kims Crafty Apple

♥ The heart Breaker Tutu/Tee by Diva Baby Designs

♥ Andalucia Valentines Bib by Sarita Baby

♥ Valentines Baby Shoes by Little Jumping Beans

♥ My baby's Garden by Lady La Duke

♥ Little Miss Poppy Tee/Skirt by My Sweet Sunshine

Vote HERE!

Team EtsyBABY© Welcomes....

Team EtsyBABY has the pleasure of introducing 8 *NEW* members!
Babyette is inspired by the love of all things Baby Wearing...especially Ring Slings & Wraps. She also offers unique neckscape cowl scarves for men and women.
BabyStepDesigns has a wonderful selection of baby wipe containers and sets! Please check her shop frequently.....as she is adding new patterns all the time!
Browniesnbutterflies love making custom baby gifts! They can embroider anything! Please visit their shop to see the products they carry ~ boppy pillow covers, bibs, burp cloths and children's clothing.
DivaBabyDesigns is where every little girl and boy's dreams become reality! They are only little once....so let them have as many tutus, capes, tiaras & wings they desire!
Fairyshred offers a wonderful selection of crocheted and knitted items ~ adorable hats, cocoons that would make great photo props! You can tell from visiting her shop she adds love in everything she creates.
Pillowsewcute offers her designer OUCH POUCH! No more scrounging for a bandaid at the bottom of your purse! Your OUCH POUCH will neatly hold all of your "owie" supplies in one savvy tote!
SaritaBaby is a Canadian line of modern funky baby accessories made out of designer fabrics. A great selection of quilts, blankets, bibs, burps, dresses and diaper clutches!
TaterTotsBoutique is the sweetest boutique! She offers upscale children's hair accessories. Your little girl will love wearing one of their fluffy bows!

Winter Whites

Winter Whites Just Right!

♥ White Daisy Headband by Dolce Vita Mia and sells for $7.25

♥ Mae White Wool Felt Shoes by La La Shoes and sells for $44.00

♥ Cotton Lily of the Valley Hat by Boston Beanies and sells for $25.00

♥ Toddler White Mouse Fleece Slippers by Piddies and sells for $34.00

♥ Baby’s First Mini Bow by To Sweet Pea From Me and sells for $7.99

♥ Mary’s Little Lamb Zady Ball by Zady Ball and sells for $27.00

♥ Flower Girls Hair Clips by Sweet Sara Designs and sells for $4.00

♥ Solid White Ruffle Bums by Raegun and sells for $10.50

♥ New Spring Bowl Cocoon by Joliem6201 and sells for $50.00

FIVE in the New Year

Five HEALTHY things to teach your child in the NEW YEAR!

With the new year right at our finger tips there is no better time to wipe the slate clean and make some changes in our lives, as well as our own child's life. Here are some healthy tips for the entire family to start the new year out right.

♥ Everything In Moderation

We all know the golden rule of everything in moderation, so why mention it? Because, it's true! We over indulge in our daily lives all the time. Our plates are fuller, our closets are fuller, our garages are fuller, our waists are fuller. To show moderation in these areas would be a wonderful example of pulling back on the reins when times call for it while it shows our child what it means to use reason.

♥ Money Doesn't Grow on Trees

Our economy has even caught even the wealthiest of family's off guard. This is a great opportunity to teach your child to really work for the money that you give them. Assign chores or tasks for them to complete before they receive any money from you. Have them place 1/3 of the money they earn into some type of savings plan. Teach them while they are young how to build a nest egg and they will carry that worthy lesson into adulthood.

♥ Get Moving & Exercise

Since we just passed through two months of what we could only call, "The Feasting of the Holidays", I am sure we all can say we gained a few unwanted pounds. Here is our opportunity to get serious and get moving and get as a family. Take this chance to spend some quality family time walking and talking with one another. Is the weather to cold outside to attempt this? Plenty of family's own a Wii now, which carry's quit a few exercise games, so grab a game and get fit!

♥ Be Responsible

Raising a child to be responsible for themselves, for the things they do, and for the things they say is so important to their character and the type of person they will become in life. Teach them responsibility and respect for themselves and the respect they will earn from others will come hand in hand with this lesson as they move forward into adulthood.

♥ Volunteer

Volunteering should always be apart of your life. It is a proven fact that volunteering and giving of yourself to others actually creates a well-balanced life as well as improving ones own self value. There once was a study conducted of people who volunteered versus people who hadn't found that volunteering extended their lives, because of the connection to others and the feelings it created inside ones own life was beneficial.

Make the beginning of this New Year to make a difference in your own life, in your child's life and in someone else's life.

Memory Keeper

Are you the Memory Keeper of your family?

Over two years ago I decided to sit down and research my family history. I was bound and determined to follow up every lead and get all of the unanswered questions I had about my family history. "Where did they come from?" "Who were they?" "What did they do for a living,?" "Did they fight in any of our nations wars?" My journey took me three solid months, seven days a week, eight hours each day. I gave my search everything I that I had.

My search paid off and I was able to search my family back to the 1500's, through twelve generations, which yielded me information that two of my great grandfathers being recorded in the history for their traceable journey into uncharted territory and the settling a new town. One of my great aunts had a questionable past. Four of my great uncles fought in two major wars and an uncle, who guarded three of our sitting presidents, and even a First Lady. My history reads like a juicy romance novel.

Though it took me a great deal of time to research my family history I am glad I did it for myself, for my siblings, for my mother and her sisters and for the generations who will come after me. It was worth all the hours sitting on a chair in front of the computer researching, emailing my uncle and my mother for fact checking things I was unsure of and I would do it all over again, in a heart beat. I wish I had an attic full of boxes and boxes of books my ancestors had kept journals of their lives, but I didn't. So, I say to you become the memory keeper of your history. Write down the stories that make your family who they are today. Take note of the important dates of your family history, because if you don't you may not be as lucky as I was in the search. I now have a time line with pictures and documents that chart my family from generation to generation and I am glad for it.

Why not start your journey by recording your family history, like I did, with something like this photo album from The Polka Dot Kitty, with your child's/family name embroidered on it. It's a great place to start and what a great gift it would be to give to your child or to another family member.



I wish you all the luck and joy that I had when I sat down to search for my family history.

Team EtsyBABY© Welcomes....

Team EtsyBABY© has the pleasure of introducing 2 new members to our team!
For a wonderful selection of clothing, bibs, burp cloths, gift sets, blankets, wash cloths, pillow cases, crochet & knit items....please stop by Sewcrafts. You will find baby & kids essentials at affordable prices! For a modern take on retro style for bibs, blankets, burp cloths, clutches and slings stop by The Covered Bottom. She offers "unique designs for the precious bottoms in your life".

Pretty In Pink

Pretty Girl In Pink!

♥ The Valentine, Hand Crochet Headband by Rozzis Sweet Peas and sells for $8.00

♥ The Pretty In Pink Cocoon by Jolie M 6201 and sells for $40.00

♥ The Toddler Flower Hat in Rose by Angel Fish Boutique and sells for $17.99

♥ The Beanie lower Hat by Karensia and sells for $16.00

♥ The Ear Flap Hat with Fuzzy Trim by Totz Hatz and sells for $21.95

♥ The Ear Flap Striped Beanie by Ambernee Crochet and sells for $27.00

♥ The Toddler Hat in Pastel Stripes by Granny's Knits and sells for $12.00

♥ The Crocheted Newsboy ZJohnson and sells for $24.00

♥ The Crocheted Cap with Pink/White Polka Dot Ribbon by Angel Beezs and sells for $14.00

Happy Birthday To You!

Happy Birthday to Kathy of Krafty Lady Kreations
January 12th

Happy Birthday to Erin of Munchkin Makings
January 18th