Oops!!!

You may have noticed that I made a little faux pas when I posted the freebie for Whisker Lickins cat treats yesterday. It really helps when you enter the correct URL.

Sorry for the mistake! Please revisit the listing; the problem is now corrected and you can get your cat some free treats.

Sherri

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Things you didn't know about lavender.

• Lavender makes a great disinfectant. It's best to use lavender oil. Take a clean, 12-16 oz plastic spray bottle and fill it with distilled or spring water. Add about 4-6 drops of oil and shake. Remember to use drops! A little goes a very long way.
• Now, Spray Away Germs! In the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, anywhere! Keep a bottle in the bathroom and also one in the kitchen . It makes the house smell nice, and helps prevent the spread of colds and other nasty illnesses.
• You can put a few drops in your bath after a stressful day. It is noted for its soothing and calming effects. I have heard of putting a few drops in the dogs bath water! It is supposed to helps take that "doggy" odor way.
• Lavender also has healing properties. It is good for insect bites, minor wounds and minor burns. Use the same spray bottle!
• On a hot day, take the spray bottle and mist yourself! It really feels good and the scent will calm you.. Use it on your face as a quick hydrator..The lavender will help with any acne, but don't get it in your eyes.
• Put a few drops of lavender oil in your bureau drawers. Helps keep your clothing smelling fresh.. You can also put a few drops in the laundry, too! It is best to use the lavender flowers for this,but you can use the oils.

Safe Plants that are non-poisonous

• African Violet
• Aluminum Plant
• Anthurium, Taliflower
• Aphelandra
• Baby tears
• Begonia
• Blood leaf
• Boston fern
• Christman cactus
• Coleus
• Corn plant
• Dracaena
• Emerald ripple, pepromia
• Hen-and-chickens
• Hoya Impatiens
• Jade Plant
• Parlor palm
• Pepronia Prayer plant
• Rubber plant
• Schefflera
• Sensitive plant
• Snake plant
• Spider plant
• Swedish ivy
• Velvet, purple passion
• Wandering jew
• Wax plant
• Weeping fig
• Yellow day lily

Christian Quote of the Day

O God, grant that today:

I may not disappoint any friend;

I may not grieve any loved one;

I may not fail anyone to whom I have a duty;

I may not shame myself.

Grant that today:

I may do my work with honesty and fidelity;

I may take my pleasure in happiness and purity.

Grant that today:

I may lead no one astray;

I may not make goodness and faith harder for anyone.

Help me today:

To be a help and example to all;

To bring strength and encouragement wherever I am:

Through Jesus Christ my Lord, Amen.

... William Barclay

RECIPE of the Day - 1/31/2007

This is one of the easiest and best recipes for beef wellington that I have come across. It makes a great presentation and is perfectly accompanied by a nice asparagus with hollandaise or roasted potatoes with rosemary. There are many great accompaniments to present with this dish - just follow your taste buds and your creativity.

Mini Beef Wellingtons

7 ounces frozen puff pastry, preferably all butter, thawed

1/3 cup Boursin cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces), at room temperature

1/2 pound trimmed beef tenderloin, cut into 1/2 -inch cubes

Salt and freshly ground pepper

1 large egg, lightly beaten

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. On a lightly floured sheet of parchment paper, roll out the puff pastry to a 7 1/2 -by-15-inch rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the pastry into 1 1/2 -inch squares.

Spoon a scant 1/4 teaspoon of the Boursin in the center of each pastry square. Season the beef with salt and pepper and set a cube on each pastry square. Fold the pastry over the beef, neatly tucking in the corners. Arrange the pastries seam side down on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

The recipe can be prepared to this point and frozen for up to 1 week. Lightly brush each pastry with the beaten egg. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Let cool slightly, then transfer to a platter and serve.

Makes about 4 dozen

Facts per Serving

Calories: 37 Fat: 3g Carbohydrates: 2g Cholesterol: 9mg Sodium: 18mg Protein: 2g Fiber: 0g % Cal. from Fat: 73% % Cal. from Carbs: 22%

FREEBIES of the Day - 1/31/07

Ultra Swim Shampoo sample. This is formulated for people who spend a lot of time in the pool, but is supposed to be good for your hair even if you don't spend much time in chlorinated water. For your free sample of shampoo, click here!

Meetings Solutions Sample Kit from 3M. I saw this on a commercial today and they will send you 3 or more of the following samples (depending on how you answer their questions) Post-it® Pop-Up Notes, Post-it® Super Sticky Notes, Post-it® Flags, Post-it® Durable Tabs or Post-it® Wall Pad samples. What caught my eye were the wall pad samples - just like giant sticky note pads for your wall. For your free kit from 3M , click here!

Single treatment mud mask from Paul Cosmetics. I have to admit, I have never used a mud mask, although I understand they are great for your complexion. I suppose now is my chance. For your free facial mask, click here!

Eucerin Aquaphor Healing Ointment sample. This is advanced healing formula for dry, cracked or irritated skin. Eucerin is a great product. For a sample to soothe your dry skin, click here!

Ace Hardware Kid's Club free membership card. This card entitles them to a special birthday gift from Ace Hardware, a special birthday letter, games, activities, etc. For a special freebie for your kids, click here!

Free week of wake-up calls from Wake-up-land.com. This gives you a wake-up call at the time specified, 3 snooze calls, if needed and it is all for free. For your free wake-up call service, click here!

Tax Act Online free tax return. With all the everyday expenses we have, it's nice to know that you can get a service like this for free. For your free tax return, click here!

Tums free sample. There are times when I get a little heavy handed with the hot sauce and reach for the tums. If you need a little tummy relief now and then, click here!

Top Ten Christian Songs of the Week

1. Chris Tomlin - Made To Worship


2. Jeremy Camp - What It Means


3. MercyMe - Hold Fast


4. Casting Crowns - Does Anybody Hear Her


5. tobyMac - Made To Love


6. Echoing Angels - You Alone


7. Needtobreathe - Shine On


8. Bebo Norman - I Will Lift My Eyes


9. DecembeRadio - Drifter


10. BarlowGirl - Enough
    

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Measurement Equivalents

3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon = 15 ml

4 tablespoons = ¼ cup = 60 ml

5 1/3 tablespoons = 1/3 cup = 79 ml

8 tablespoons = ½ cup = 118 ml

16 tablespoons = 1 cup = 237 ml

1 fluid ounce = 2 tablespoons = 30 ml

8 fluid ounces = 1 cup = 237 ml

16 fluid ounces = 2 cups or 1 pint = 473 ml

32 fluid ounces = 4 cups or 1 quart = 946 ml

Can Size Measurements

5 oz can yields 5/8 cup

8 oz can yields 1 cup

10 ½ - 12 oz picnic can yields 1¼ cups

1 lb. 13 oz. or No. 2½ can yields 3½ cups

14 oz. Condensed Milk can yields 1 1/3 cups

5 1/3 oz. Evaporated Milk can yields 2/3 cups

American Liquid Measures

1 gallon = 4 quarts = 3.79 litres

1 quart = 2 pints = .95 litres

1 pint = 2 cups = 16 fl. oz = 450 ml

1 cup = 8 fl. oz = 225 ml

1 T = 1/2 fl. oz = 15 ml

1 t = 1/3 T = 5 ml

Oven Temperatures

225 F = 105 C = Very Cool

250 F = 120 C 275 F = 130 C = Cool

300 F = 150 C 325 F = 165 C = Very Moderate

350 F = 180 C = Moderate 375 F = 190 C

400 F = 200 C = Moderately Hot 425 F = 220 C = Hot

450 F = 230 C 475 F = 245 C = Very Hot

Christian Quote of the Day

Receive every day as a resurrection from death, as a new enjoyment of life; meet every rising sun with such sentiments of God's goodness, as if you had seen it, and all things, new-created upon your account: and under the sense of so great a blessing, let your joyful heart praise and magnify so good and glorious a Creator.

... William Law

RECIPE of the Day - 1/30/2007

This recipe has all the great ingredients you love: chocolate, coffee and nuts. It is a great dessert and makes an excellent presentation
with the mocha glaze as a finishing touch. To make an elegant presentation, place chocolate curls in the center and place walnut halves around the edge on top to make a nice border.

Mocha Walnut Torte

1 cup walnuts
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2/3 cup butter or margarine
9 oz semi-sweet chocolate
6 eggs lightly beaten
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp dry instant coffee
2 tbsp water

1. In food processor, finely grind walnuts with flour.
2. Melt chocolate and butter in top of double boiler over simmering water.
3. Beat eggs and sugar 1 minute.
4. Beat in melted chocolate mixture and vanilla.
5. Blend in walnut mixture.
6. Dissolve coffee in hot water. Beat into batter.
7. Pour into greased and floured 9-inch cake pan.
8. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out almost clean.
9. Cool in pan 15 minutes, then remove from pan. Cool on wire rack. Pour warm glaze over cooled cake. Spread down over sides. Chill to set glaze.

Glaze

1/4 cup whipping cream
4 oz semi-sweet chocolate
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp dry instant coffee

In a pan, cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.

FREEBIES of the Day - 1/30/07

Herbaliss Shampoo sample. This is supposed to be formulated for any type of hair, with just the right mixture of herbs to make everyday a good hair day. For a great hair product, click here!

Free candle scent sample from Breath of Heaven. They give you 5 scents to choose from. For a sweet smelling freebie, click here!

Solutions for Easy Living booklet with over $30.00 in savings on your favorite brands of home products. I received mine and they give you great advice and great coupons. For your free savings, click here!

Whisker Lickins cat treats sample free when you join the Purina Snack Lovers Club. By joining, you get free coupons, free samples for your pet to try before they are marketed, etc. For a really good deal for your cat, click here!

Pantene Pro V Restoratives shampoo and conditioner samples. You can choose from Time Renewal, Frizz Control or Breakage Defense. For a product that makes your hair healthier, click here!

Free print from Bill Martin Galleries for telling him how you found his site. His paintings are naturescapes and very different in technique. You select which painting you would like and enter it in the comment section. For a free art print, click here!

Poetry booklet from Gwen Frostic entitled "Because you appreciate loveliness". For your free illustrated poetry booklet, click here!

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Honey Facts

• Honey is one of the earliest forms of saccharine substances known to man.


• The purest of honey is from the honeycomb.


• Most honey that has been made up commercially has been thinned with added syrups.


• Honey is a natural energy restorer. Need a quick boost? Try a teaspoon of honey in warm water. This will not only restore your energy, but it will help your digestive track too!


• Did you know that honey has more calories than sugar? Honey has 18 calories more per tablespoon than granulated sugar! Honey has 64 calories, while granulatedsugar has 46 calories per tablespoon!


• The ingredients in honey are water, pollen, fructose, glucose, organic acids, proteins and enzymes.


• Honey has many good uses from cooking to helping with colds. It helps dissolve mucus when you have a cold.. Hot tea with lemon and honey works wonders.


• Do not give honey to children under 2 year of age. Many babies can become very ill from honey, even a small amount. Certain young children can get botulism.


• The different flowers which were gathered determine the flavorof honey. It takes 50,000 bees to produce 500 pounds of honey in one year!

Colors of Honey

• White Color is from Clovers and Alfalfas


• Very Light Amber Color is from Wildflowers


• Light Amber Color is from Orange Blossoms


• Plain Amber Color is from Buckwheats, Tupelos and Others.

The colors of honey comes from the nectar of the plants. The lightest colors of honey have the mildest flavors, while the darker colors have fuller flavors.

Christian Quote of the Day

All things are God's already; we can give him no right, by consecrating any, that he had not before, only we set it apart to his service -- just as a gardener brings his master a basket of apricots, and presents them; his lord thanks him, and perhaps gives him something for his pains, and yet the apricots were as much his lord's before as now.

... John Selden

RECIPE of the Day - 1/29/2007

This is the perfect romantic dinner because Chateaubriand, invented by the chef of the nineteenth-century French author Francois Chateaubriand, is classically prepared for two. Traditionally, Chateaubriand is served with béarnaise sauce and Chateau potatoes. Preparing the potatoes may seem like a lot of work, but this is a special meal and well worth the extra effort.


Chateaubriand with Chateau potatoes and Lobster Tails


For the Chateau Potatoes:

1 pound russet potatoes, peeled
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons minced parsley


For the Bearnaise Sauce:

2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon dry white wine
1 tablespoon minced shallots
1 tablespoon minced tarragon
3 black peppercorns, cracked
2 egg yolks
1/2 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 teaspoon minced chervil


For the Chateaubriand:

1 pound center-cut beef tenderloin, prime or choice grade, side muscle removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, mashed to a paste


For the Lobster:

2 frozen lobster tails, about 8 ounces each, thawed
2 tablespoons butter, softened
2 garlic cloves, mashed to a paste


TO PREPARE THE CHATEAU POTATOES:
Cut the potatoes about 3/4 inch wide by 3/4 inch deep and 1 inch long. Carve each piece into the shape of an olive (relatively uniform pieces will cook evenly). Melt the butter over medium-low heat in a large nonstick sauté pan. Add the potatoes and sauté for about 15 minutes, or until light golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss with the parsley. Keep warm.


TO PREPARE THE BEARNAISE SAUCE:
Combine the vinegar, wine, shallots, 2 teaspoons of the tarragon, and peppercorns in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and reduce the liquid by half. Let cool until lukewarm. Transfer to the top of a double boiler set over briskly simmering water, and add the egg yolks and lemon juice, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens to the consistency of heavy cream. Add the butter and whisk until the sauce thickens again. Season with salt and pepper and strain the sauce into a clean saucepan; thin with a little water if necessary. Keep warm, and just before serving, stir in the remaining tarragon and the chervil.


TO PREPARE THE CHATEAUBRIAND:
Preheat the broiler. Season the steak with salt and pepper, and place in a shallow bowl. Combine 1 tablespoon of the olive oil with the garlic and spread over the entire steak. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon on olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak on all sides for about 4 minutes, or until browned. Transfer to the lowest rack of the broiler and broil for about 10 minutes longer for medium-rare or 12 minutes longer for medium. Remove from the broiler and let rest about 5 minutes before cutting


FOR THE LOBSTER:
Remove the shell from the lobster tail meat and season the lobster with salt and pepper. Combine the butter and garlic and spread on the lobster meat. Place the lobster on a broiler pan and broil on the lowest rack of the broiler for about 7 minutes, or util the lobster is just cooked through.


TO SERVE:
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of bearnaise sauce onto the center of warm dinner plates and spread out to make a 3-inch circle. Cut the Chateaubriand in half and place it cut side down onto the béarnaise sauce. Place the lobster beside the Chateaubriand so that it curls around the steak. Arrange the potatoes on the other side of the steak. Spoon more béarnaise sauce over the steak and along the length of the lobster. Drizzle extra béarnaise around the edge of the plate, if desired.


WINE RECOMMENDATION:
This combination of lobster and Chateaubriand presents some interesting wine possibilities. Our first choice, given the special occasion, is a great champagne form France or a sparkling wine from California. If you are looking for wines to match the food, try either a Sauvignon Blanc from California or a Pouilly Fume from the Loire Valley in France. If you prefer red wine, choose a West Coast Pinot Noir or a French Burgundy.


HELPFUL TIPS:
Chateaubriand steak is cut from the center of the tenderloin. It is usually cut to about 1-1/4 pounds, but we suggest a smaller cut, since we are including lobster tails for our special occasion menu. If possible, ask for 12 ounces to 1 pounds of center-cut tenderloin. Tarragon vinegar can be substituted for the fresh tarragon in the béarnaise sauce.

FREEBIES of the Day - 1/29/07

Dove ProAge Sample. You choose either the Dove Rich Night Cream or the Dove Deoderant. Both are great products. For your free Dove sample, click here!

Free ticket for your parent/guardian when you go on a college tour using Amtrak. Children 2 - 15 go for 1/2 price. Sounds like a really good deal. Check out this freebie when you,

click here!

Complimentary skincare consultation from Shiseido. This is an in-store freebie and you can enter your zip code to find the Shiseido counter nearest you. With your complimentary service, you receive a three-piece skincare sample set customized to your skin type including Cleanser, Softener and Moisturizer to start your way to fabulous skin. Also receive a Gift Certificate to pamper yourself with an indulgent Shiseido Facial Massage. For a special treat for your skin, click here!

Skin Balance Age Defying Aqua-Less Crystalline sample from Borba. This product contains age-fighting skin renewers intended to help soften fine lines, increase elasticity, and renew skin’s natural glow. For a sample to help you look younger, click here!

Greenies dental chew sample for your dog. They will send you the dental chew plus they give you a $20.00 printable rebate for your dog's next dental check up at the vet's office. For help with your dog's dental health, click here!

Dr. Dan's Cortibalm lip balm sample. This product is created by a board certified dermatologist and is supposedly better than anything else on the market. He gives you a 100% money back guarantee. For a free sample to fight those chapped lips,

click here!

Chestnut Tea sample from Tea Chef. This is wonderful tea! I absolutely love it and can recommend it wholeheartedly. For a great cup of tea, click here!

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Food Ratios and Equivalents

Bread Ratios

• 1 cup soft crumbs - use 2 slices of bread


• 1 cup small bread cubes - use 2 slices of bread


• 2 cups ready made bread stuffing - use 1/2 an 8 oz. package


• 1 cup fine crumbs - use 8-9 slices zwieback

Fruit Ratios

• 1 teaspoon grated orange rind = 1/2 orange


• 3 tablespoons lemon juice = 1 lemon


• 1-1/2 teaspoons grated lemon rind = 1 lemon


• 1 cup mashed banana= 3 medium bananas


• 6 tablespoons orange juice = 1 orange


• 1 cup chopped apple = 1 medium apple


• 4 cups sliced apples = 4 medium apples


• 2 cups pitted cherries = 4 cups unpitted cherries


• 4 cups sliced fresh peaches = 2 lbs or 8 medium peaches


• 1 cup orange juice = 3 medium oranges

Miscellaneous Ratios

• 1 pound of ground beef equals 2 cups


• 1/4 pound of butter equals 1/2 cup melted butter


• 1 pound of cheese equals 4-5 cups grated cheese


• 1 pound of spinach equals 1-1/2 cups cooked spinach


• Dried herbs are approximately twice as strong as fresh!
  

Christian Quote of the Day

Unless we know the difference between flowers and weeds, we are not fit to take care of a garden. It is not enough to have truth planted in our minds. We must learn and labor to keep the ground clear of thorns and briars, follies and perversities, which have a wicked propensity to choke the word of life.
... Clyde Francis Lytle

RECIPE of the Day - 1/28/2007

With all the free coffee samples that are posted today, I was really inspired to use this recipe. Biscotti is so wonderful with a good cup of coffee. What could be better than double the chocolate? This is for the serious chocolate lover. Brew some great coffee, grab a couple of biscotti and enjoy a much needed break.

Double Chocolate Chunk Biscotti

1/3 cup butter
2/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 eggs
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
4 ounces white baking bar, coarsely chopped
3 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons shortening (optional)
2 ounces semisweet chocolate or white baking bar, coarsely chopped (optional)

Directions
1. Grease a large cookie sheet; set aside. In a large mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder; beat until combined. Beat in eggs. Beat in as much flour as you can. Stir in any remaining flour. Stir in the 4 ounces white baking bar and the 3 ounces semisweet chocolate.

2. Divide dough in half. Shape each half into a 9-inch-long roll. Place rolls 4 inches apart on prepared cookie sheet; flatten rolls slightly to 2 inches wide.

3. Bake in a 375 degree F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted near the centers comes out clean. Cool on cookie sheet on a wire rack for 1 hour. Using a serrated knife, cut each roll diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Lay slice, one cut side down, on an ungreased cookie sheet.

4. Bake slices in a 325 degree F oven for 8 minutes. Turn slices over and bake 7 to 9 minutes more or until slices are dry and crisp. (Do not overbake.) Transfer to a wire rack; cool.

5. If desired, in a heavy small saucepan combine the shortening and the 2 ounces semisweet chocolate or white baking bar. Cook and stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Drizzle over tops of biscotti. Let stand until set. Store in an airtight container up to 1 week. Makes 32 biscotti.

FREEBIES of the Day - 1/28/07

$15.00 coupon off Jackson Hewitt Tax Service. I believe wholeheartedly in someone else doing our taxes. They are up on the latest deductions and can usually get you much more than you could get by preparing your taxes yourself. For your free coupon, click here!

$25.00 coupon off H & R Block's Tax Service. They are one of the most trusted names in tax preparation. For your free coupon,

click here!

This offer is back again and worth the repeat post! Gourmet Selections Coffee from Folgers. You can choose Vanilla Biscotti or Lively Colombian. I have tried both kinds; the vanilla is a mild vanilla flavor that is just right and the colombian is very full bodied without being overpowering. For your free coffee sample,

click here!

Healthy Coffee samples from Alternative Health Supplements. This is ganoderma coffee - I can't really help you with this product as I haven't tried it, but I did order it so we'll find out together what it's like. For your free healthy coffee samples, click here!

Items from WMHK Radio. You get to select free pens, bumper and window stickers, bible reading guide, salvation bracelets and plastic bags. You can request up to 20 of each item, which is great for passing along to friends, coworkers, sunday school, etc. For your free items, click here!

Free movie for teachers. Teachers of kindergarten through 12th grade get a free ticket to see the film "Freedom Writers" starring Hilary Swank during Teacher Appreciation Week 1-26-07 through 2-1-07. This offer is good at any AMC movie theatre in the U.S. and Canada. For your free movie, click here!

Calling card from Phone Hog. They give you this free card when you sign up for their service, which is completely free with no credit card info needed and sounds pretty good actually. You don't have to switch long distance carriers and you can call from any phone, any time. They say it is not internet phone service, so for your free phone card and great deal on phone service, click here!

Glow After Dark fragrance by Jennifer Lopez. I have heard some people comment that this has a very nice scent, but I have not tried it personally. We'll see! For your free fragrance sample, click here!

Save the Albatross free pin badge. They will send you this pin to help raise awareness that 19 out of the 21 species are facing extinction due to fishing methods. For your part to help raise awareness for this cause, click here!

A Special Message to My Husband

I love you so much! You are the most wonderful husband and father and I am very thankful for you. I love the time we spend together and I look forward to growing old with you.

Lots and Lots of Kisses and Hugs,

Sherri (C.B.)

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Kitchen Tips

• Cast Iron Cookware - Clean cast iron cookware with mild detergent and water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or pads. Cast iron should be dried immediately to avoid rusting. Rusting may also be prevented by coating with oil when not in use. Cast iron cookware may also be cleaned by placing items in a self cleaning oven during its cleaning cycle.


• Non-Stick Cookware - Follow manufacturer's instructions for washing non-stick cookware. Dishwashing liquid may be used with some non-stick surfaces, while others may be washed with warm/hot water only. Remove grease using a nylon or plastic pad. Do not use abrasives, steel wool or scourers on non-stick ware. To remove stubborn stains, mix two tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda with half a cup of vinegar and a cup of water and boil for 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.


• Stainless Steel Cookware - Use mild detergent to clean stainless steel cookware. To remove stubborn stains, use a plastic abrasive pad, or soak is recommended. Shine the outer surfaces of stainless steel cookware by rubbing vigorously with wads of newspaper. Do not use steel wool, as it may scratch the surface.

Garbage Disposals - Garbage disposers clean themselves if used properly. To assist in cleaning, run cold water while unit is still on after grinding has ended. The drain line should be purged periodically. First, ensure any waste has been disposed of. Next, fill the sink with two or three inches of cold water. Turn on the unit on, and allow this water to run free of any waste. The drain line should be purged if it will not be used for several days. This will help prevent waste odours. Waste odours may be removed by running orange or lemon peels or ice cubes through the disposer. Do not clean by putting drain cleaning products into the unit.

Bathroom Tips

• Before hanging shower curtains, soak in salt water solutions to prevent mildew.


• To remove mildew, wash in hot soapy water, rub with lemon juice and let the shower curtain dry in the sun.


• For plastic curtains, clean with laundry pre-wash spray. Spray along the top, letting it run down to cover the curtain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then rinse it off.


• Remove soap and hard water buildup on shower tile with tile cleaner. Then apply a good paste wax and buff with a dry cloth to deter future water spots.


• To remove mildew from the corners of the tub, dip cotton balls in bleach and let them sit, when you finish cleaning the bath, remove cotton and rinse well. The mildew will be gone.


• Can't get to that dirt in the corner? Make a pointed tool by cutting an old whisk broom at a 45 degree angle.


• Keep the toilet bowl ring-free by pouring a half-gallon of white vinegar in it once a month. Let it soak overnight before flushing.


• Don't use bleach if you're already using a tank-held cleaner that's released when the toilet is flushed. The two may react chemically.


• To avoid clogging and odors, pour one cup baking soda down the bowl weekly.
  
  

Christian Quote of the Day

Our faith and our friendships are not shattered by one big act, but by many small neglects.

... J. Gustav White

RECIPE of the Day - 1/27/2007

You know how you just get in one of those moods for certain foods? Well, I have been in an Italian food mood lately, as you can probably tell.
This recipe is easy and delicious. You can use plain diced tomatoes and add 1/2 teaspoon each of the following fresh herbs: oregano, basil, thyme and marjoram. If you use dried herbs, you use about 1/2 the amount.

Tomato & Spinach Pasta Toss

2 C. penne pasta (7 oz.), uncooked
1/2 lb. hot or mild Italian sausage, casing removed
1 pkg. (6 oz.) baby spinach leaves (7 C.)
1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, italian style, undrained
1 C. shredded low moisture mozzarella cheese
2 T. grated parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, crumble meat into large deep skillet. Cook on med. high heat until cooked through, stirring occasionally; drain.

Add spinach and tomatoes; cook 2 min. or until spinach is wilted, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; cover to keep warm.

Drain pasta; place in large serving bowl. Add meat mixture and cheeses; mix lightly.

Makes 6 servings, 1 cup each.

Recipe submitted by Allison Byron

FREEBIES of the Day - 1/27/07

Hot or cold pack. Just answer a few questions about their website, Backbraces.com, and they will send you a free hot/cold pack worth 8.00. Sounds like a good deal to me. For a pain relief freebie, click here!

Purina Pro Plan Selects dog food sample. Pro Plan has wholesome, natural ingredients so your dog will love the taste and you will love the nutrition they're getting. You get a 12 oz. sample of Natural Turkey and Barley Formula for adult dogs. For a sample that is beneficial to your dog's health, click here!

Purina Naturals Cat Chow sample. This is a 6 oz. sample bag and has natural ingredients, whole grains, fiber and no artificial color or flavor. I didn't want to leave the cat lovers out this time. For a free healthy sample for your cat, click here!

For comic book collectors - free software to help you catalog, sort and organize your comic books. It looks like you can also buy, sell and get paid cash for referrals. To help you organize your collection, click here!

Sample of NasalCease from Catalina Healthcare. This product helps stop nosebleeds. If you have bad allergies or sinus, this product should be of great use to you. For your free sample, click here!

P.A.D. Information Kit. This is to make you aware of the symptoms you may experience if you have Peripheral Artery Disease and how to prevent heart attack or stroke. There are many risk factors that lead to this condition, so for your free helpful information kit, click here!

Free "Pray for our Troops" dog tag. All they require is your mailing info and that's it. What a great way to remind people to keep our men & women of the military in our prayers. For your free dogtag, click here!

Skin Analysis sample kit from CuDerm. This will tell you just how dry or oily your skin is so you can best find products that suit your skin type. For your free kit, click here!

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Kitchen Tips

• To revive wilted parsley or dill place in cold water for 10 to 15 minutes.


• To clean and re-hydrate lettuce, fill sink with cold water and let soak for 15 minutes. Dirt will sink to bottom and lettuce will crisp up a bit.


• To easily unmold gelatin salads or desserts, lightly brush mold with oil before pouring in the mixture.


• When using a glass bakng dish for cakes, lower oven temperature by 25 degrees F.
  To plump dried-out raisins, place in hot water for 10 minutes.


• When using wooden skewers for kebabs, soak in cold water for 10 minutes to prevent them from burning.


• It is easier to separate eggs when they are still cold.


• For greater volume, bring egg whites to room temperature before whipping.


• Save celery leaves and green onion tops to add to soups or stews.


• For easier carving of meat and to retain juices, let roast or poultry rest at least 10 minutes before carving.


• Butter the rim of a pan in which you cook rice or macaroni so it won’t boil over.


• To keep milk from sticking to a pan, brush the bottom of the pan with butter before pouring in the milk.


• To easily measure molasses, honey or syrup, dip cup or spoon either in hot water or brush with oil.


• For lighter fritter batter, substitute an equal amount of club soda or beer instead of liquid called for.


• For flakier pie crust, substitute 1 teaspoon vinegar for 1 teaspoon of the cold water called for in the recipe.
  

Christian Quote of the Day

I normally just post a quote, but I found this really cool poem that comes from Ireland in the medievil times.



Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save what Thou art:
Thou my best thought, by day or by night;
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son,
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Riches I need not, nor man's empty praise;
Thou mine inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach Heaven's joys, O bright Heaven's Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all!

... Anonymous medieval Irish hymn

RECIPE of the Day - 1/26/2007

This is one of my favorite Italian dishes. I have found a great recipe that is really easy to make and tastes wonderful. There are a few different varieties of pesto out there if you feel really creative.


Baked Manicotti

2 C. spaghetti sauce, divided
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 3/4 C. ricotta cheese
1 1/2 C. shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 C. grated romano cheese
1/4 C. pesto
12 manicotti shells, cooked and rinsed in cold water

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread 3/4 C. of the spaghetti sauce on bottom of 13 x 9 baking dish. Mix egg, cheeses and pesto until well blended.
Spoon cheese mixture into large resealable plastic bag. Using scissors, cut off small hole from one of the bottom corners of bag.

Fill manicotti shells, one at a time, squeezing cheese mixture into both sides of each shell. Place manicotti over sauce in baking dish; pour remaining
1 3/4 C. spaghetti sauce over manicotti. Cover with foil.

Bake 40 min. or until heated through.

Makes 6 servings, 2 manicotti each.

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Maximum Strength Pepcid AC sample. This is supposed to be a miracle worker for heartburn and acid reflux. To get some free relief from indigestion, click here!

Sore No More pain relieving gel sample. This product has botanical extracts and natural ingredients rather than the waxes, oils and chemicals in a lot of topical pain relievers. To ease your sore joints naturally, click here!

Wisk Detergent samples. Wisk has some great products out there. I have received a couple of samples and was very impressed with their performance. For cleaner clothes, click here!

OS Signature fragrance sample for men. This comes from Old Spice, but a new updated fragrance. To try a new scent, click here!

Fragrance sample from Jovan Musk. I remember it being very popular when I was in high school in the late 70's. For your free scent, click here!

Heintzman Dakota Flax Gold sample. This contains essential fatty acids, protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. They have been given the Diabetes Resource Center seal of approval. For your free flax sample, click here!

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Using Spices

• Allspice - Sold whole or ground. Strong flavor-therefore better combined with other spices in fruit, cakes, pies, pickles, etc.


• Basil - Basil is a member of the mint family. It has a taste slightly like licorice. Use Basil with: Eggs, Fish, Lamb,Peas, Squash and Tomatoes. You can buy Basil fresh or dried.


• Caraway - Seeds have a spicy smell and aromatic taste. Used in baked fruit, cakes, breads, soups, cheese and sauerkraut.


• Cardamom - Flavor especially good in combination with honey. Use for some baked goods.


• Cayenne Pepper - Usually obtained from small fruited varieties of capsicum. It should be of dull red color. May be used in very small amounts in vegetables and in some salad dressing and in cheese dishes. It must be used with care, however, and paprika, a milder form of red pepper, is successfully substituted.


• Chervil - Chervil is a member of the Parsley family. A nice, mild herb. Use with chicken, egg casseroles, green salads and peas. Buy fresh or dried.


• Cloves - Should be dark brown in color. usually used in combination with other spices, which gives a better flavor when used alone. Too much gives an undesirable color as well as a bitter flavor.


• Curry Powder - A number of spices combined in proper proportion to give a distinct flavor to such savory dishes as meat, poultry, fish and vegetables.


• Dill - Dill is a member of the Parlsey Family. Similar to Caraway, but milder flavor. Good with cottage cheese, fish, tomatoes and Potatoes. Buy fresh or dried.


• Fennel - Fennel is a member of the Parsley family. The seeds have a licorice flavor. Good with Breads, Fish, Sauces and Soups.Buy Fresh or dried.


• Mace - The inner envelope of nutmegs. May be used in "blade" or ground.


• Marjoram - Marjoram is a member of the mint family. Nicely Aromatic. Use with beef, cheese, chicken, eggs, fish chowder, lamb, pork and for stuffings. Buy Fresh or dried.


• Mint - May be used fresh in salads, fruit beverages, jellies, conserves, ices, iced tea, sauces for meats, and added minced to carrots and peas. Good with apple combinations.


• Mustard - Sold whole or ground. Gives good flavor; used alone in small amount in various soups, meat dishes, pastry and in such dough mixtures as fancy breads, dumplings and in some puddings; also in combination with other spices for pickles.


• Nutmeg - This is useful in many dishes and adds a nice touch to: Eggnog, Apple Pie, green beans, creamed onions, sweet potatoes, creamed fish and chicken dishes, pork chops, and in stuffings. You can also use in fruit compotes, custards and ice creams! Try buying your nutmegs who and using a nutmeg grater for the best flavor!


• Oregano - Oregano is a member of the mint family. It has a strong odor and has a nice, bitter taste. Use with Pizza, Tomatoes, Veal and Vegetable Salads.Buy Fresh or Dried.


• Paprika - A Hungarian sweet pepper. Bright red in color. May be used in all meat and vegetable salads. In soups, both cream and stock. As a garnish for potatoes, cream cheese, fruit salads and eggs.


• Pepper (Black) - Reduced to proper fineness by grinding and sifting. Used in all meat and vegetable dishes where the color does not affect the product.


• Peppercorn - The whole berry of the pepper plant. Pepper (White) - Practically the same as black pepper except the the outer shell of pericarp of the berry is removed. Use where color of black pepper is undesirable.


• Rosemary - A member of the evergreen shrub. It has a slight piny taste. Use with duck, fish, lamb, potatoes, stuffing, and veal. Buy Fresh or Dried.


• Sage - Used fresh and dried. May be used in poultry and meat stuffings; in sausage and practically all meat combinations; also in cheese and vegetable combinations, vegetable loaf, patties, etc. The flowers are sometimes used in salads.


• Savory (Summer) - Agreeable flavor, blends well with other flavors; may be used in stuffings for meat, in vegetable soups, in sausage, with meats and with horseradish.


• Savory (Winter)- May be used in the same way as Summer savory.


• Tarragon - Leaves have a hot, pungent taste. Valuable to use in all salads and sauces. Excellent in Tartar Sauce. Leaves are pickled with gherkins. Used to flavor vinegar.


• Thyme- Leaves, green or dried, valuable for use in stuffing, sauces, soups and meats.
  

Christian Quote of the Day

Democracy is necessitated by the fact that all men are sinners; it is made possible by the fact that we know it.

... Elton Trueblood

RECIPE of the Day - 1/25/2007

These desserts make an excellent presentation. You have probably seen them in your local bakery. They are extremely easy to make and are very expensive when they are purchased. Try this for yourself and enjoy.

Fruit Tartlets with Orange Glaze

Tart Pastry, recipe follows
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/2 cup orange juice
3 cups fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries, sliced peeled peaches
or nectarines halved grapes, raspberries, or blueberries

Prepare pastry as directed and divide into 8 portions. On a lightly floured surface, use your hands to slightly flatten the dough. Roll each dough portion into a 5-inch circle.

Carefully line eight 3 1/2-inch fluted tartlet pans with pastry. Trim pastry even with the edge of each tartlet pan. Prick bottoms and sides of pastry with the tines of a fork.

Place tartlet pans on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 375 degrees F oven for 10-12 minutes, or till light brown. Cool several minutes, then remove from pans. Cool shells completely on a rack.

Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan stir together sugar and cornstarch. Stir in orange juice. Cook and stir over medium heat till thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 2 minutes more. Gently stir in fruit. Divide fruit mixture evenly among the baked pastry shells. If desired, chill for up to 2 hours.

Tart Pastry

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup cold butter

2 beaten egg yolks

1 tablespoon chilled water

In a medium mixing bowl stir together flour and sugar. Cut in butter till pieces are the size of small peas. In a small mixing bowl stir together egg yolks and water. Gradually stir egg yolk mixture into flour mixture. Genty knead the dough just till a ball forms.

To prepare in a food processor, place the steel blade in the work bowl. Add flour, sugar, and butter. Process with on/off turns till pieces are the size of small peas. Stir together egg yolks and water. With machine running, quickly add liquid through the feed tube. Stop machine as soon as all liquid is added. Process with 2 more on/off turns. Remove dough and shape into a ball.

For easier handling, cover dough with plastic wrap and chill for 30-60 minutes. Use as directed in recipe.

FREEBIES of the Day - 1/25/07

Free tax preparation for active military from Military One Source. You really can't beat this freebie. Thank you to all of our men & women in uniform who have made sacrifices to keep our country safe. For your free tax preparation, click here!

Gillette Fusion razor sample from Wal-Mart. These are great razors - they give you a close shave, but don't nick so much or irritate your skin. For a really great razor, click here!

Digital Thermometer from Nemours. This offer is only good if you live in DE, MD, NJ and PA. You also get information on the Alfred I DuPont Children's Hospital and the Nemours Children's Clinic. For your free thermometer, click here!

St. Joseph's 81 mg. aspirin sample. Not only do they send you a sample of the aspirin, but they include a coupon for your next purchase. For a heart healthy sample, click here!

2007 Mrs. Smith's calendar. This is a great calendar. Every month you get a picture of some lovely dessert item. For a really sweet calendar, click here!

Garnier Nutritioniste Ultra-Lift or Skin Renew sample. Both products are supposed to help your skin look younger and revitalized. For your free beauty sample, click here!

Free kid friendly sponge from Dawn. Just vote on the one you like best and they will send you the "winner". For a sample that's great for you and your kids, click here!

Free Magazines

I have compiled a list of free magazines that either give you a free subscription or free issues to try before you commit. I hope you find something you like.

800 For Funds
All You
American Baby
Animal Times
Atlantis Rising
Baby Talk
Blue Suit Mom
Cats and Kittens
Cooking Light
Diabetes Digest
Disney Adventures
Family Tree Maker
Food and Family
Food Arts
Games for Windows
Grand
Health
Melt
Motor Trend
People
Real Simple
See Ya There
Southern Living
Time Magazine
Today's Diet & Nutrition
Very Best Baby
Wood Beautiful

Sherri's Helpful Hints

My husband is a stickler for a perfectly made bed. They do look so much better when they are properly made and the bed clothes (as my great grandmother would say) stay in place better.

Bed Making Tips

1. Straighten the mattress and the mattress pad.


2. Spread the bottom sheet right side up, wide hem at top, even and straight.


3. If the sheet is short, tuck in at top and at sides, and keep taut. Leave no wrinkles.


4. Spread the top sheet even and straight, right side down, with wide hem at top, and tuck in at bottom under mattress.


5. Spread blanket or extra covering next.


6. Turn the top sheet down over the blanket.


7. Tuck in bottom and mitre corners. Tuck in the sides.


8. To protect the blanket, it is good to use a light-weight spread over all, to be used at night as well.


9. Lay day spread smooth and even.


10. Pillows may be placed under spread or stood upon top of the made bed.
    

How to Mitre a Corner of a Sheet

1. Take corner of sheet between thumb and finger and draw around corner of the mattress.


2. At the same time, slip other hand under side edge of sheet and draw upward into a diagonal fold.


3. Lay this fold up over the mattress.


4. Now turn under mattress the part of sheet left hanging.


5. Drop upper fold and tuck in under mattress. This makes a box like corner.
   (A mitred corner will hold the bedding firmly)