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Saturday, February 28, 2015

National Pancake Day - I Added the Chocolate Syrup!

It's National Pancake Day!!  

Make that pan-a-cakes, if you're in our house.  Who doesn't enjoy a stack of delicious piping hot pancakes for breakfast.  You can easily make pancakes from scratch but I use a baking mix and then "doctor" up the mix for whatever our fancy may be that day.

national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe

Just because you use a boxed mix doesn't mean you have to keep it in its box.  I use old pantry jars to hold most dry goods.  If you need the measurements for biscuits, pancakes, etc., just copy it from the box and tape it to the jar.

national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe

Did you know that most old teacups hold exactly one cup?  That makes them perfect as scoops in flour and sugar jars.  And, the look nice too.  This one is a vintage Homer Laughlin teacup.  I assume it was made for a restaurant or hotel because of the JC monogram. 


national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe

Now let's add some flavor!  I add a splash of maple flavoring.  I also substitute part of the milk with flavored creamer.  If the recipe calls for 1 cup of milk, you can add 1/2 cup milk and 1/2 cup of creamer.  When I substitute with creamer, I do not add any sugar that the instructions list.  Flavored creamer has enough sweetness and it makes the pancakes really gooooood ;)

national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe


Mix well!

national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe

Here's a pancake trick that I picked up from Julia Child's cookbook.  Let the batter rest for a few minutes before pouring it in your pan.  You can see in the photo above, there are a lot more air bubbles in the second photo than the first.  Those bubbles will help make fluffier pancakes.

national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe

Whether you're using a pan like this one (which I happen to think is the bomb-diggity for making pancakes) or a griddle, always preheat it before adding your batter.  Otherwise, you batter will continue to spread and your pancake will be thin instead of thick and fluffy.

national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe

So, now that you've got a nice stack of flap jacks, how about making this to top them with?  Hot, chocolaty syrup!  Here's what you'll need:  1 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup cocoa powder (I just use store brand or whatever may be on sale), 2 tablespoons of butter, and 1/3 cup of sugar.  Put everything in a saucepan and gradually heat to a slow boil.  Once it begins to boil, turn the heat down to simmer.  I like my chocolate syrup thin so that it saturates the pancakes.  If you would like it thicker, you can add a little bit of cornstarch before the boil.  But I wouldn't...just saying :)

So we've got everything prepared.  Let's put it all together.

national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe

Mmmm....hot buttery pancakes.  Ready for the syrup!

national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe


Oh my goodness, I can hardly wait!



national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe


Oh yeah!  Keep going!


national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe

That will just about do it!  See the chocolate syrup puddled around the pancakes?  That's when you know you've got enough on there.  It won't stay a puddle for long.  It's going to soak right into those pancakes, making them incredible!

It's a good thing National Pancake Day is on a Saturday.  I think I'm going to need a nap after these!


national pancake day, chocolate syrup recipe

Thanks for stopping by and God bless!

Friday, February 27, 2015

Dreaming in Color - A Fun, Artsy Store in Murfreesboro TN

dreaming in color store murfreesboro tn


This week, our Nashville area bloggers group met at this incredible store located right here in Murfreesboro.  Dreaming In Color is owned by Deneen Glidwell and is located just down the street from the historic Oaklands Mansion.  It's full of great furniture pieces, vintage items, and lots of handcrafted art.

Let's take a look!

dreaming in color store murfreesboro tn

This is Deneen, our adorable host!

dreaming in color store murfreesboro tn

Loved this piece!  Unfortunately, it was already sold.

dreaming in color store murfreesboro tn

Cute wall decor!

dreaming in color store murfreesboro tn

Weird shot of the wall between two rooms...I was trying to get the cool arrow sign.  Almost got it.  

dreaming in color store murfreesboro tn

These amazing pieces are made by Lucy Inspired.  
Love the way she mixes old found objects in her jewelry pieces.  

dreaming in color store murfreesboro tn

What don't I love about this display...gorgeous cabinet, boxwood wreath, and ironstone.

dreaming in color store murfreesboro tn

I think this was my favorite of all the items.  
This is my year to follow my dream...and I'm going for it!

If you're in the Murfreesboro area, be sure to check out Dreaming In Color located on N. Maney Avenue, located in the historic area.  I found out last night that Deneen's building has quite a history behind it and there are close local ties to Judy Garland even.  Pretty cool, huh?

Thanks for stopping by and God bless!
Angie

I'm linking here:

RAIN ON A TIN ROOF
THE STYLE SISTERS
JENNIFER RIZZO
HOME STORIES A TO Z
FROM MY FRONT PORCH TO YOURS
HAVE A DAILY CUP OF MRS. OLSON
COASTAL CHARM'S NIFTY THRIFTY TUESDAY
STONEGABLE
UNDER THE TABLE AND DREAMING

Monday, February 23, 2015

Something To Talk About Link Party #5

Welcome to Something To Talk About Link Party #5! Each week I'm amazed by the creativity and inspiration that is brought to this party. As readers and followers of this blog, this is a great opportunity for you to be introduced to other blogs and their passion. Check back each day until Thursday afternoon – leave a comment and let me know what your favorites are! Now, let’s get this party started!!
something to talk about link party


Recently I shared these two posts:  the hunt themed office makeover that my 18-year-old daughter did for me; and, a quick and easy tip on repackaging bulk ground beef.


Let's move on to the features from this past week's Something To Talk About Link Party.  It was so hard, it IS so hard to decide each week because there are SO many great links.  

Features

Vicki and Jennifer's picks :   Creating a Coffee Table from a Thrift Store Find  from Karen's Up On The Hill

A Simple Shelf Vignette  from  Itsy Bits and Pieces

CoCo's picks: Hand-painting an Antique Armoire  from Recreated Designs

Some Chocolate Meringue Action from Be Fed Again

Lisa's picks: Coffee Station Organization from Cupcakes and Crinolines

Bicycle Wheel Foyer Table  from Reinvented

Angie's picks: Beautiful Bubble Chandelier from The Heathered Nest

Balsamic Roasted Red Pepper Hummus  from Strength and Sunshine



The Altered Past is proud to feature:

Heather of the Heathered Nest shared this beautiful bubble chandelier that she recently installed in her home.     



Rebecca of Strength and Sunshine shared her delicious looking recipe for Balsamic Roasted Red Pepper Hummus.  We go through a lot of hummus in our home so this is definitely a keeper for us!






We would love to connect with you on social media! 
We would love to connect with you on social media! 






Party Rules…please don’t link and run :)  

  1. Please link to a specific post on your blog, not your blog’s home page. You may link up to 3 posts!
  2. Please leave a comment for your host.
  3. Cultivate new relationships…visit a couple of blogs and leave comments.
  4. No Etsy stores, giveaways or link parties.
  5. We would love a link back to one of our blogs with a text link or party button.
  6. By submitting a link, you’re giving us permission to feature your project on our blogs and on social media.  Proper credit and a link back to your post will always be given.
  7. Each week, a few of our favorites will be featured on all five of our blogs.  Features will also be pinned to our Pinterest Party Board  for even more exposure!  If you were featured, be sure to grab a button!
Thank you so much for stopping by and for linking up with us!!
If you were featured, don’t forget to grab a button!

Thanks for linking up and God bless!!
Angie


Sunday, February 22, 2015

2-in-1 Easy DIY Farm Animal Cutting Boards


easy 2-in-1 farm animal cutting board

At our house, we are forever asking, "Where's the cutting board?"  I guess it's because we home school, which means we eat all three meals at home most days, which means we are always preparing food, which means the cutting board is constantly being used.  Know what I mean??

We definitely needed more cutting boards.  Not just more, but smaller ones for those small jobs like cutting lemons for tea or slicing veggies for a sandwich.  That's when I decided to just make some.

Here's what you'll need if you want to make your own:

a piece of 1" pine shelving
pencil for drawing or transferring your design on the wood
120 grit sandpaper
coconut oil (or food-grade mineral oil)
scroll saw or jig saw
drill and drill bit (if making interior cuts)
safety glasses

easy 2-in-1 farm animal cutting board


1.  Choose your design and draw or transfer it onto the board.  I knew I wanted to make a farm animal design and the traditional chicken on the back of a pig on the back of a cow seemed perfect.  I cut a puzzle shape between the cow and pig so that the board could be used as a whole or as two separate boards.

easy 2-in-1 farm animal cutting board


2.  Wearing your safety glasses, begin cutting your design out of the board.  Be slow and careful as you cut any curved shapes.  A scroll saw is great for making these cuts...just take your time and don't rush the cutting process.

easy 2-in-1 farm animal cutting board


3.  When I made the interior cuts between the pig and cow, I first drilled a hole.  This gives you room to turn the blade (if using the scroll saw) or it gives you a place to begin (if using a jig saw).

4.  After all the cuts have been made, sand the edges and any remaining pencil marks with the sandpaper.

easy diy farm animal cutting boards


5.  Now you're ready to seal your board.  I used coconut oil because it's natural and will not turn rancid like vegetable oil.  You do not want to use a protein or vegetable based oil!  Begin by rubbing in the coconut oil with a clean cloth.  Cover the entire board in an even coat.  Let it sit for 12-24 hours in a warm place.  Apply more to any areas that may need more and allow to sit again.  Repeating until no more oil is absorbed.  Wipe any remaining oil with a dry cloth and buff until it shines!  You can repeat after a few months to keep your board conditioned.

They're ready to use!!

easy 2-in-1 farm animal cutting board

easy 2-in-1 farm animal cutting board

Pretty easy!  ;)

easy diy farm animal cutting boards


Thanks for stopping by and God bless!!
Angie


I'M LINKING HERE:

RAIN ON A TIN ROOF THE STYLE SISTERS
JENNIFER RIZZO
HOME STORIES A TO Z
FROM MY FRONT PORCH TO YOURS
HAVE A DAILY CUP OF MRS. OLSON
COASTAL CHARM'S NIFTY THRIFTY TUESDAY
STONEGABLE
UNDER THE TABLE AND DREAMING

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Quick & Easy - How to Repackage Bulk Ground Beef WITHOUT Getting Your Hands Dirty!

how to repackage bulk ground beef without getting your hands dirty

Today I'm sharing a super easy tip for dividing and repackaging bulk ground beef.  You know, those huge, bulk ground beef packages that we all get at the grocery store because the price of ground beef is cheaper by the pound that way, but then you get home and you're tired from shopping but that 5 pounds of bulk ground beef is staring at you and you're tempted to just throw it in the freezer as is!  Yeah, I've done it.  And regretted it.  That's when I came up with this oh-so-easy method of dividing the beef and putting it in freezer bags, all without even getting your hands dirty!

quick and easy tip for how to repackage bulk beef to freeze

Start with your bulk package.  Save the plastic bag that you put it in from the store.

quick and easy tip for repackaging bulk beef for freezing

Using freezer bags, turn down the tops of each so that they stay open.  

quick and easy tip for repackaging bulk beef for freezing

Using a serrated knife, cut the beef into portions.  This is a 3 lb. package so I cut it into thirds.

quick and easy tip for repackaging bulk beef for freezing

Now, grab one of the portions.  The ends are easiest.   

quick and easy tip for repackaging bulk beef for freezing

quick and easy tip for repackaging bulk beef for freezing

Placing it in the bag, I begin twisting the end.  The beef will slide out nice and clean that way.

quick and easy tip for repackaging bulk ground beef


quick and easy tip for repackaging bulk ground beef

Here's the middle portion.  I pick it up by the plastic that's still around it.  Use the serrated knife to slice open the plastic, leaving the beef free to fall into the bag.

quick and easy tip for repackaging bulk ground beef

Now, the three pounds of beef are in bags and ready to freeze.  I try to remove as much air as possible.  I also pat mine flat so that they'll stack in the freezer AND take less time thawing.



Don't forget that meat department bag I told you to save.  I toss the packaging into it and throw it all away.  Now, you've just got a serrated knife to wash and you're done.  I can usually do this in just a matter of minutes and minimal mess.  No more dreading having to divide the bulk beef or regretting that I threw it in the freezer whole!

I hope this tip saves you some time in the kitchen!

Thanks so much and God bless!!
Angie


Here's a pic to pin!  
quick and easy tip for repackaging bulk ground beef



I'm linking here:

THE STYLE SISTERS
JENNIFER RIZZO
HOME STORIES A TO Z
FROM MY FRONT PORCH TO YOURS
HAVE A DAILY CUP OF MRS. OLSON
COASTAL CHARM'S NIFTY THRIFTY TUESDAY
STONEGABLE
UNDER THE TABLE AND DREAMING

Monday, February 16, 2015

Something To Talk About Link Party #4

Hi all!  I hope you had a great weekend.  It's supposed to be snowing here today.  Yeah, I know.  Oh well, that just makes for a great day of blogging :)

In case you missed it last week, here's what happened when I turned my 18 year old loose to makeover my office.  


How do you think she did?  I'm excited about it!

Now, let's move on to this week's party!!



It's that time again!!  That time of the week when so many amazing bloggers give us SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT with their amazing projects, recipes, and crafts!  Here's some we are featuring from last week's party:

Features
Vicki and Jennifer's picks :   DIY Industrial Style Message Board from Home Remedies
Vintage Bingo Love Sign from  My Creative Days
CoCo's picks: DIY Typography Sign  from The Refined Relic
Lisa's picks: Peppermint Sugar Cookies from Katherine's Corner
Angie's picks: Bohemian Memory Wire Bracelet from Artistic Endeavor 101
An Afternoon Tea Party  from Kathe With an E

something to talk about link party week 3 features


something to talk about link party week 3 features

The Altered Past is happy to have featured these two wonderful links from last week.


Kathe With an E shared An Afternoon Tea with us.  She had a beautiful vintage tea set as well as these yummy tea sandwiches.


Brooke of Artistic Endeavors 101 shared this beautiful Stacked Bohemian Bracelet.  I love turquoise and I could wear this with EVERYTHING!

So let's get this party started for this week!  Here are the party rules and, as always, thanks so much for sharing!!

We would love to connect with you on social media! 






Party Rules…please don't link and run :) 

  1. Please link to a specific post on your blog, not your blog's home page. You may link up to 3 posts!
  2. Please leave a comment for your host.
  3. Cultivate new relationships…visit a couple of blogs and leave comments.
  4. No Etsy stores, giveaways or link parties.
  5. We would love a link back to one of our blogs with a text link or party button.
  6. By submitting a link, you’re giving us permission to feature your project on our blogs and on social media.  Proper credit and a link back to your post will always be given.
  7. Each week, a few of our favorites will be featured on all four of our blogs.  Features will also be pinned to our Pinterest Party Board  for even more exposure!  If you were featured, be sure to grab a button!