How to make EASY Corn Chowder

And I mean easy.  This is not homemade.  This is semi-homemade-which is how I cook.  Semi.  I don't like to cook.  I never have.  I only do so because eating out every day is too dang expensive!! And when my kids were little, they made me feed them.  They were funny that way:)

Anyway, here it is:

For this recipe (if that's what you want to call it) , I use AUGASON Farms Creamy Potato Soup mix.  It comes in bulk and can be found at some supermarkets, online, and at Walmart.  I like it because it is for food storage and lasts a really long time.  It also is simple to make--only add water.  And a big bonus here--it tastes good!!!






EASY CORN CHOWDER

Augason soup mix OR Potato soup--ready made, or 1 pkg of any potato soup mix.  (I make enough soup to feed a family of four).

1 15 oz can sweet kernel corn

chopped celery or dried celery bits

1/4 cup bacon bits

sour cream

shredded cheddar cheese


Directions:  Make the soup as directed on the package or can.  Add corn, celery ,and bacon bits. Cook until done--about 15 minutes. Add 1 or 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.  Dish up and add a dallop of sour cream on top.  This soup is NOT low calorie so just enjoy!!!

Politically Correct words

So today on one of the facebook pages I follow, Chicks on the right, there was a discussion on the use of the word "TARD". It is the new acronym for the protesters and rioters of Trump. Apparently these ladies are the ones who coined it. And they were defending it. Even though it is offensive to some. One of the women even has a mentally challenged son. I pointed out to them why it is offensive. I grew up in the 60s and 70s. My brother had Down's Syndrome and the mental capacity of a 6 month old. During that era, he was denied access to school, denied access to doctors, called names including "retard", and generally disregarded as a person. It was a hurtful time and that word was meant to hurt not describe a condition. I pointed this out to the chicks on the right blogger. She never did get it. She said it was wrong to call them that but okay to use the word. It's not. Why do I know? Because it is disrespectful towards all disabled people. Whether they hear you say the word or not. It hurts them. I couldn't get that through the blogger's head. How sad that such ignorance still exists today. My son has not faced half of the ignorance my brother faced. Thank God. We have come far in that respect. School services and the requirement to serve ALL people including the disabled--we can thank John F Kennedy and the democrats after him. As for that facebook page, I think I will unfollow. They won't miss me but I will feel better for not reading about such ignorance.

How to make Scalloped and Au-Gratin Potatoes using dehydrated potatoes

Several years ago, I started to stock food and water.  I am NOT a prepper by any means but having extra food on hand just seems like a smart move to me.  You never know what event might come your way and keep you from going to the store.  Last year I had knee replacement surgery and was down for the count for several months.  Then in November, my father died unexpectedly (I will blog about that later) and I was tied up with his estate for several months.  I did NOT have time to shop or coupon.  Thank goodness I had plenty of food on hand. 

One product I really like is Augason Farms.  They sell a vast variety of foods for storage.  Walmart carries them.  Amazon carries them.  And Auguson.com carries them.  They last for years unopened.  I know this past winter was particularly tough on many--especially back East.  Many were without power.  Having food supplies on hand along with water will keep you and your family from starving!!  Also an emergency cooking kit is a great tool to have on hand.  I have this little gem stored with my food storage  

http://www.amazon.com/QuickStove-Emergency-Portable-Preparedness-Activity/dp/B00C7CE35W

Anyway, I wanted to share with you a recipe I found for dehydrated potato slices.  Yummy and easy to make.  Enjoy!!  Please share any recipes you have found for Auguson farms products or for dehydrated products.  I would love to see them!

 


 Au-Gratin Potatoes (using dehydrated potatoes) (by James Parrish)

3 cups diced dehydrated potatoes

6 tablespoons of butter

3 tablespoons of flour

1 1/2 cups of milk

1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste


Preparation of recipe:
1. Place potatoes in a shallow baking dish.
2. In a small saucepan over a low heat melt 6 tablespoons of butter.
3. Take the butter and add the flour to it. Stir well in order to blend together.
4. Gradually add the milk.
5. Continue cooking and stirring continuously until a thick sauce is formed.
6. Add the cheese and stir until the cheese melts.
7. Pour the sauce over the potatoes that are in the baking dish and mix them gently.
8. Bake potatoes at 400° for 30 to 40 minutes. Final product should be golden brown.
Source:  http://www.recipezaar.com/bb/viewtopic.zsp?t=295606





SCALLOPED DEHYDRATED POTATOES

3 cups dehydrated potato slices


1/2 cup nonfat powdered milk

2 Tbsp. flour

2 Tbsp. cornstarch

1 tsp. onion powder

pinch of salt and black pepper

1 Tbsp. dried parsley or chives (optional)

3 Tbsp. butter or margarine

2 3/4 cups boiling water

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place potato slices into a medium casserole dish. Combine remaining dry ingredients and sprinkle on top of the potato slices. Dot with butter. Pour boiling water over all and stir gently to combine.

Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. You can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes if you prefer the top to be a little more browned.

Source:  http://tennzen.blogspot.com/2009/08/ask-tennzen-dehydrated-scalloped.html Posted by The Little Red Hen at 11:15 AM

On Friday, May 15, 2015, a jury sentenced the Boston Bomber, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, to die. Many of the victims felt vindicated.  Many said he got what he deserved.   At least one family , though, did not want the death penalty for him.

Over the years, I have struggled with the issue of capital punishment.  What IS its real purpose?  Supposedly it is to deter crime.  However, does it?  I doubt it.  How many criminals think about dying when they are committing a crime?  I would guess very few.  I am not going to spout a bunch of statistics.  You can google those yourself.

So if capital punishment isn't a deterrent, then what is its purpose?  That's where the struggle is.  Many in this case, and most capital punishment cases, tout justice needs to be served.  One family of the bombing, said now they can now move on. Unfortunately, this case is going to haggle on in the media for years to come so I am skeptical about their ability to leave this case behind.

So if it's not for a deterrent, and not for justice, then isn't the death penalty really just for revenge? If it were my family members that were harmed, wouldn't revenge be what I would want?  I understand how the families would want the perpetrator to suffer as their families have suffered.  I get that.  Especially if it were my child that was hurt or killed.  But what does the Bible say about revenge?

Deuteronomy 32:35 "It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them." 
 Romans 12:19 "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord.
Genesis 4:15 "So the Lord said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold."And the Lord appointed a sign for Cain, So that no one finding him would kill him.

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

Proverbs 24:29 " Do not say Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work."

You get the picture.  There are more verses in the Bible that speak to vengeance . God will deal with them in do time.  The Bible also says,  Exodus 20:13 Thou shalt not kill.  Isn't that what we do when we sentence someone to die.  Yes, they killed someone.  Possibly alot of people.  But I see no where in the Bible where it says, well okay you can kill someone if they killed someone else.  Isn't that the Lord's job of judgement?

I am not saying the perpetrator should not be punished.  He/she should.  But death?  What exactly does that accomplish?

I know, many if not most of you will disagree with this.  It is okay.  I have struggled for a long time with it.

Does Tsarnaev deserve death?  Of course he does.  But what about us? In God's eyes, don't we all deserve death?   Romans 6:23 " For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."  And yet we have been extended grace.  Psalm 103:10 "He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve."   Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God".

These are just my thoughts.  Please feel free to comment and leave your own.

Proverbs 24:29

Verse Concepts

Do not say, "Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work."
- See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

So the LORD said to him, "Therefore whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold " And the LORD appointed a sign for Cain, so that no one finding him would slay him. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Revenge,-And-Retaliation#sthash.oGi8Wf1J.dpuf

Day 2 after cortisone shot.

Yikes-they told me my blood sugar would be higher from the shot.  I am diabetic and it runs around 110 in the mornings on an empty stomach.  This morning it is 181.  I sure don't like that!  Knee is still very stiff from shot .  My hand are still sore but not as much.  Symptoms had already been subsiding for 3 days anyway.

Later in the day:  right now my face is flushed and I am having hot flashes with sweating--worse than I ever had during menopause. I have terrible nausea, and my indigestion (which I never get).  From what I've read these are side effects of the cortisone shot.  The jury is out on whether this shot was worth it.  The pain in my knee has subsided but these side effects are very unpleasant.


Update:  I decided not to make a new post. The date is April 21.  It's been almost 2 weeks since the shot.  The first four days after were not fun.  I had flu like symptoms for a full four days.  The upside is that for a full week I had no knee pain at all.  But then after 7 or 8 days it began to return and now hurts again.  I am still experiencing "sweats" or hot flashes from the shot.  I know this because I haven't had hot flashes in well over a year!  At this point, the shot did not work.  If the effects don't last several months, it didn't work.  You are only allowed one shot every 3 months.  I can now see why.

Take a journey with me--Rheumatoid Arthritis and pain

Four years ago, before this blog, I started to develop severe knee pain.  It came out of the blue and was so intense in my right knee, I could no longer walk without crutches.  I ended up having knee arthroscopic surgery.  The recovery from that was much slower than it was supposed to be and unfortunately the pain never really went away.  It lessened but it never left.

My orthopedist said I had slight tearing of the meniscus but mostly just osteoarthritis in my knee.  Now, I live in a small town and our options of doctors and surgeons are limited.  This doctor did not follow up with me.  He did prescribe Mobic but it made me terribly sick and he did not do anymore follow up.

I've never liked going to doctors.  And unfortunately when I have an unpleasant experience with one , it only heightens my displeasure with them.

Fast forward to the present time.  For anyone who has read past blogs, they will know that I have had an extremely stressful period in my life for the past 1 1/2 years.  I started noticing periods of "flare-ups" of pain in my knee.  On top of that, I began to have pain in other joints.  My hands especially would also hurt during painful knee flare ups. I would hurt for several weeks and then it would just disappear and not return for several months.  This has been happening on and off for over a year now.   

I have done some research on Rheumatoid Arthritis .  Here is some of what I have found:


"Rheumatoid arthritis can make your joints feel stiff and can leave you feeling generally unwell and tired. It is most common after the age of 40, but it can affect people of any age. It generally affects more women than men.Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Your immune system, which usually fights infection, attacks the lining of your joints, causing them to become inflamed. Over time your joints may become permanently damaged and stop working properly.

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis usually come and go. Sometimes symptoms only cause mild discomfort, but other times they can be very painful, making it difficult to move around and do everyday tasks. When symptoms become worse, this is known as a flare-up. A flare-up is impossible topredict, making rheumatoid arthritis difficult to live with.At present there is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis. However, with early diagnosis and treatment symptoms can be eased and the progression of the condition can be slowed down.

SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis tend to develop gradually, with the first symptoms often being felt in small joints, such as your fingers and toes.
Flare-ups
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis often tend to come and go and you will experience what are known as ‘flare ups’. This means that from time to time, your condition will worsen and your symptoms will be more intense and severe. You can experience a flare-up at any time of the day or night. However, it is likely that your symptoms will be more painful in the morning, when you first wake up. Usually, your symptoms will begin to ease as the day progresses, as you start using and flexing your joints.
Once rheumatoid arthritis progresses, it can spread to other joints, such as your shoulders, elbows, hips and jaw. The condition tends to affect several joints at the same time, usually on both sides of your body. For example, it often affects both knees or both hands.
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are outlined below.

• Joint pain and swelling - this is usually worst in the morning and tends to improve as you move around.
• Joint stiffness - again, this often improves once you start moving around.
• Warmth and redness - the lining of the affected joint becomes inflamed, leaving the skin over the joint warm, red and swollen.
• Loss of appetite.
• Generally feeling unwell.
• Skin nodules - one in four people with rheumatoid arthritis develop lumps under their skin, known as rheumatoid nodules. These commonly occur on the skin over the elbows and forearms, and are usually painless
• .Anemia - this is a condition where the blood is unable to carry enough oxygen, due to a low number of red blood cells. It often leaves you feeling tired and lethargic. Eight out of ten people with rheumatoid arthritis are anemic. Unlike osteoarthritis, which only affects the bones and joints, rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation in other parts of your body. The condition can also cause inflammation of your tear glands, salivary glands, the lining of your heart and lungs, and your blood vessels."

Information taken directly from the following website-- http://www.nursingtimes.net/nursing-practice/clinical-zones/rheumatology/rheumatoid-arthritis/5001797.article

I do not have all the symptoms.  I may not have RA.  There is a blood test for RA but from what I've read it is not always definitive. I do have the majority of the symptoms--just no anemia that I know of.

One of my bff's suffers from a very similar disorder.  She suggested I journal and keep track of my symptoms.  I plan on doing just that here. Take the ride with me.  I will try to also continue to post other things.  However, for me, this is the easiest way to journal and a good way to get feedback from others.   Please feel free to comment and to share your own journey.  So here's today.Thanks all!!

Today--April 9, 2014

For the last 3 weeks, the pain in my knee has been unbearable.  So much so that on our planned vacation to Palm Springs, my husband had to push me around in a wheelchair at any event that involved walking.  I could not go more than a few feet without intense pain.

Also hurting were my hands.  They burned and were stiff to move.  Two days ago, the pain in both my hands and my knee started to ease.  Doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason for the coming of the pain or the leaving.

I saw Dr. Meyers today--an orthopedic surgeon.  He did extensive x-rays and said that my knee was completely full of arthritis and that knee replacement was the only option left.  He also gave me a cortisone shot (which hurts like heck).  Hopefully this will ease the pain for awhile.  I'm to see him in a month but he said if this doesn't help it will be my decision when to have the knee replacement.  He does not do that and will refer me on to someone in  Salt Lake City, Utah.

Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe

How sweet it is -- pound cake from scratch in three simple steps! Busy times call for easy desserts, and this rich pound cake recipe hits the sweet spot. We've added vanilla to our recipe for an extra hint of flavor!

• prep: 15 mins
  total time: 1 hour 15 mins
• servings: 8 

• Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for pan
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), plus more for pan
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  Directions

• Step 1

  Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter and flour a 6-cup (8 1/2-by-4 1/2-inch) loaf pan; set aside.

• Step 2

  Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition; add vanilla and salt. With mixer on low, gradually add flour, beating just until combined (do not overmix).

• Step 3

  Bake until a toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean, about 1 hour (tent with aluminum foil if browning too quickly). Let cool in pan 15 minutes. Invert onto a wire rack, and turn upright to cool completely.

How to make the Perfect Roast Beef in your Oven!

How to make the Perfect Roast Beef in the Oven

 

Ingredients

• 1 3 to 4 pound roast
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 to 2 teaspoons black pepper, crushed or ground
• Worcestershire Sauce (optional)

Instructions

To prepare the meat remove from the refrigerator 60 minutes before cooking. This will give the roast a chance to reach room temperature. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. If the roast is very lean you may want to drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil or two over the roast. Drizzle Worcestershire Sauce over roast for a richer flavor. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the roast. Place the roast on a wire rack on a baking sheet or a glass pyrex dish. Bake the roast for approximately 25minutes for every pound of meat for a roast to be cooked to medium rare. Adjust accordingly for your preferred level of doneness. You should use a meat thermometer to determine when the roast is done.
Push the meat thermometer all of the way into the center of the roast. Pull the roast from the oven when the inside temperature of the roast is about 10 degrees less than your desired level of doneness. The temperature of the roast may rise while the roast is cooking. Let the roast rest for at least 15 minutes, tented in aluminum foil to keep warm, before carving to serve.
Rare : 120 - 130 degrees - bright purple red, tender, juicy
Medium Rare: 130-135 degrees - bright red, warm, tender very juicy
Medium: 135 -145 degrees - rich pink, slightly juicy
Medium well: 145 - 155 degrees - tan with slight pink, firm, slight juice
Well Done: 155 and above - tan to brown, very little juice, meat can become tough
So if you want a medium rare roast remove it from the oven when the internal temperature reaches 120, it will rest for 15 minutes. The internal temperature will rise while the meat is resting. It is always best to use a meat thermometer if you have one to ensure you cook the roast to your desired level of doneness.

How to make your own dog food! Easier than you think!

Last year when my fur baby, Trixie, died of cancer, I started to look other options for feeding my remaining dogs.  Commercial dog foods are filled with preservatives, dyes, and fillers .  You can't tell me that those ingredients are good for our beloved pets.  For further information , watch this YouTube video.  While they are promoting their dog food (I am in no way endorsing this product or any other) the information is correct about commercially made dog food. 

I began to search the internet and YouTube for recipes to make my own dog food.  I tweaked the recipe to fit my lifestyle and my dog's needs.  So I'm sharing with you my own recipe.

Homemade Dog Food

1 large roaster crock pot
3 lbs ground meat, hamburger, turkey, chicken, or lamb (you decide or mix and match)
2 cups brown rice
8 oz green beans
8 oz carrots
8 oz peas

NO CORN OR WHITE RICE OR PASTAS WHITE POTATOES.  DOGS CANNOT DIGEST THIS WELL

You can add in fresh vegetables instead of frozen.  You can add apples to this also.  Do not add any seasonings at all. They are not good for dogs and this is what you are trying to avoid.

Add about 2/3 water to crockpot.

Then add all other ingredients.  Set on low and cook for about 5 -6 hours.  Mash with potato masher from time to time.  If it looks like it may burn, add more water.

After it is done, mash and stir well.  Let cool completely.  Divide into freezer bags.  This will last about 4 days in the refrigerator thawed and in the freezer for 3 - 6 months.  This batch will feed 2 30 lb dogs for about 5 - 7 days.  Tailor the amount you feed your dog to his activity level.  Here's a food chart to help calculate.  http://www.natureslogic.com/dogs-feeding-chart/

I feed my 45 lb Border Collie about 2 1/2 cups a day.  I feed my 25 lb mini Australian Shepherd about 1 1/2 cups a day.  I feed my Chihuahua about 2/3 cup a day. 

My dogs love this food and it has been working well for them. It costs me about $10 - $12 a week to feed them this--not really much more than commercial dog food.    I hope this helps those of you who love your fur babies find an alternative, healthy way of feeding them.  Happy feeding.

Primitive Raggedy Ann Easter Bunny Costume Doll

 Up for sale on Ebay--made by ME!!!!  Follow the Link Below to purchase

Primitive Raggedy Bunny Doll

It's a New Year! Start it with some bread.

Wow.  Last year was a busy and trying one.  So much so that I have not been at this blog in months and months.  I want to change that and start working on it again. I love social media.  All of it.  It keeps us connected with the world around us.

I like Facebook but one of my pet peeves is when people share those wonderful recipes, you cannot post it onto Pinterest.  Facebook does not arrange things in any particular order except by time.  So even if you share a recipe, it is hard to find it ever again without looking through everything.

I love Pinterest.  You can arrange the great things and ideas you find onto boards and then have easy access to them.  I have tons of recipes.

I found a great one today on Facebook but once again, cannot pin it to Pinterest because it is not allowed.  So, I'm going to repost that recipe here for you.  And then pin it to Pinterest.  I haven't tried it yet but it looks and sounds yummy.  I would love to give credit to whomever shared it first, but I haven't the foggiest idea.  So I apologize if I stole someone's recipe.

Amish Cinnamon Bread

No kneading, you just mix it up and bake it!

Batter:
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
2 cups buttermilk or 2 cups milk plus 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice
4 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda

Cinnamon/sugar mixture:
2/3 cups sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Directions:
Cream together butter, 2 cups of sugar, and eggs. Add milk, flour, and baking soda. Put 1/2 of batter (or a little less) into greased loaf pans (1/4 in each pan). Mix in separate bowl the 2/3 c sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle 3/4 of cinnamon mixture on top of the 1/2 batter in each pan. Add remaining batter to pans; sprinkle with last of cinnamon topping. Swirl with a knife. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 min. or until toothpick tester come clean.
Cool in pan for 20 minutes before removing from pan.

When we all get to Heaven...Dog lovers will understand...

As I write this, my dog lays in my bedroom dying.  She is over fourteen years old and had several cancerous tumors removed this past year.  This time , her whole body is filled with cancer.  I took her to the vet this morning because she can barely walk.  I know she needs to be put down but I couldn't do it just yet.  My husband is out of town and I'm waiting for him to return.  The vet gave her heavy duty pain meds and she is now comfortably in LaLaland.  The vet said it is doubtful she will make it through the night.  My hope and prayer is that she passes while she is sleeping.  I do not want to have to take her back to the vet.  I want her to pass at her home with me by her side.  It's the least I can do.

I have always been a dog person.  When I was young, I would constantly drag home stray animals that my mother would promptly make me get rid of.  I love animals- all animals. Dogs, of course, have been my favorite.  They give what no one else on this earth can give--unconditional love.  No matter your mood , no matter how you treat a dog, he/she will still love you and be ecstatic when you arrive home.  You ca.n be gone 5 minutes or 5 months and that dog will be overjoyed to see you. You can look and feel like crap or you can be on top of the world --doesn't matter, the dog doesn't care.  They love you either way.

Trixie was a "replacement" dog.  I had just put my 16 year old Pomeranian mix dog to sleep and I needed a new dog for the kids.  We had another dog, Sunny,a yellow lab mix, and he needed a friend.  So I saw an ad in the paper for a border collie/aussie mix puppy-$50. Last one. Runt of the litter. Has blue eyes.  Sounded perfect.  And she was!

Trixie was my closest companion from that time on. When I walked she was my walking partner. She did laundry with me.  She did the dishes with me.  She made beds with me.  Heck, she went to the bathroom with me.  No matter where I was in the house or outside, she was there.

She loved the kids too.  In the wintertime, she loved tagging along while they went sledding.  They, on the other hand, were not too fond of her coming , since she would chase them down the hill and nip at their coats.  It was that herding instinct coming out.  We didn't have sheep, so Trixie used kids!

Trixie didn't love it when we left--even when it was for a few hours.  She suffered her entire life from separation anxiety.  She destroyed several screen doors and even ate our hot tub cover in retaliation for us leaving her behind.  We learned to lock her up in a safe room when we were gone.  Even as recently as a few months ago, my father stayed and watched the dogs while we were on a trip.  He said she paced the hallways waiting for me the whole time.

Trixie also hated fireworks and thunder.  She would shake with fear when thunder sounded.  And when we would try to light our own fireworks at Christmastime, she ran over to it, grabbed it with her mouth, and buried it in the snow.  We stopped doing fireworks after that.

My family and I have experienced a lot of death this past year.  My mother died in December.  My brother died in January.  And now my dog.  I wasn't ready for Trixie to pass a few months ago.  But I'm ready now.  It's not about me.  She has given everything for me.  And now it's about her and her needs.  She needs to not be in pain.  She needs to be free again.

Trixie has been the nicest, gentlest dog I have ever had.  Never has she growled or snarled at anyone.  You couldn't have asked for a better friend.

We are going to bury her in our backyard alongside her best friend, Sunny.  Sunny died a few years back.  When we buried Sunny, Trixie was right there.  My husband laid him in his grave and Trixie walked over and with her nose pushed dirt into his grave.  She mourned for days for Sunny.  She lost 11 pounds until my husband brought home another dog (Starbuck) which helped Trixie recover from her loss.  

I don't know if dogs go to heaven (though the movie says they do).  The Bible is not specific on that matter.  But if they do, Trixie will be there.  She will have the biggest crown any dog could have.

Saying goodbye to your best friend is tough. So I won't just yet. But it is only a matter of hours now. And so I say thank you , Trixie.  I couldn't have done it without you.

UPDATE:  My girl did in fact last through the night.  Her will to live and be my companion was astonishing.  At 11:30 am today, we had her humanely euthanized.  She rests by her best friend, Sunny. 

Extremely Easy Homemade Crock Pot Yogurt!!! Yes, you can!

I love yogurt--alot. But with rising grocery prices, the price of yogurt has also gone up.  Then thanks to Pinterest, I found several recipes to make your own yogurt.  I didn't even know you could.  Although most of the recipes weren't exactly difficult , they just didn't fit my needs.  I didn't want to buy special equipment like a yogurt maker or bring a  picnic cooler inside to set in my kitchen.  Just not convenient.  Then I found a recipe for making yogurt in my crock pot.  Bingo!! I have 3 crock pots because I do a lot of crock pot cooking.

Yesterday I tried out the recipe I found.  I was skeptical but hopeful.   Well I wasn't disappointed!  It not only works, it works quite well.  I may never buy store yogurt again.

I know from what I've read you can use any kind of milk you wish--raw, organic, or pasteurized. Whole milk is probably the best since it will create the creamiest yogurt but I suspect you can use 2%.  I just haven't tried it.

So here's the recipe:

Crock Pot Yogurt

Ingredients:
1/2 gallon whole milk
1/2 cup plain yogurt ( it has to be plain AND with active cultures--read the label)

Supplies needed:
1 crock pot
candy thermometer
beach towel
big spoon or ladle
2 quart size mason jars

Directions:

1.  Pour 1/2 gallon of milk into the crock pot, put on the lid,  and set it on high.  The milk must reach a temperature of 180 degrees F.  This took my crock pot about 2 hours.  Use the thermometer to check.

2.  Once the milk reaches 180 degrees, turn off the crock pot, take off the lid, and let the milk cool to 115 degrees F.  This took my crock pot about 4 hours (some may take longer it just depends on your house and climate).  Do NOT disturb the yogurt.

3.  Once it is cooled down to 115 degrees, I skimmed off the film that had formed and threw that away.  Then stir in the 1/2 cup of plain yogurt.  This is your culture.  Put the lid back on the crock pot and then wrap the crock pot in a beach towel.  You want the pot to remain warm in order for the yogurt to set. Leave the crock pot undisturbed for 12 hours.  Don't look at it or unwrap it.  That will result in runny yogurt.

4.  After twelve hours (I left mine overnight), put the whole crock (and the yogurt still undisturbed) into the refrigerator for 8 hours.

5.  After 8 hours, take the crock pot out, and scoop the yogurt into 2 quart mason jars.  Remember to keep out 1/2 cup of yogurt for another starter.

I added vanilla and sugar to my mason jars (no recipe--just to taste) because I love vanilla yogurt.  My yogurt was fairly firm when it was plain but did become a little runny once I added sugar.  I know some people have reported runny yogurt right from the get go but if that happens just run it through a cheesecloth to get the whey out.  I didn't have to do that but some people might.

Homemade yogurt is suppose to last about 2 weeks in the refrigerator.  I haven't made it before so I will report later if this is true.

I gotta tell ya--the homemade yogurt was 10 times better than the store bought.  And cheaper!!  It basically costs you whatever a 1/2 gallon of whole milk costs.  And the cheapest I've ever found yogurt is $2 for a 32 ounce tub.  I paid $2.29 for the 1/2 gallon of whole milk and got 2 quarts of yogurt so that is still substantially cheaper. 

Pour 1/2 gallon of milk into your crock pot, set it to high, and heat the milk to 180°. My crock pot has a probe that will alert me when it reaches the set temp, but you can just check it occasionally with a candy thermometer. It takes approximately 2 hours. - See more at: http://realfoodenthusiast.com/easy-homemade-yogurt-in-the-crock-pot/#sthash.Fn0JpICP.dpuf

 Happy Culturing!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 24 hours

Yield: 2 Quarts

Ingredients

• ½ gallon whole milk
• ½ cup plain yogurt with live and active cultures
Supplies:
• Crock Pot
• Candy Thermometer
• Beach Towel
• Ladle
• Mason Jars
• Colander (optional)
• Cheesecloth (optional)

Directions

1. Pour 1/2 gallon of milk into your crock pot, set it to high, and heat the milk to 180°. My crock pot has a probe that will alert me when it reaches the set temp, but you can just check it occasionally with a candy thermometer. It takes approximately 2 hours.
2. Turn off crock pot, remove lid, and let the milk cool down to 115°. Do not disturb. This takes approximately 6 hours (varies widely depending on the temperature in your house).
3. Once the yogurt has cooled down to 115°, stir in ½ cup of plain yogurt. The temperature cannot be above 120° or it will kill the cultures in the yogurt.
4. Put the lid back on, make sure the crock pot is turned off and unplugged, and wrap the entire crock pot in a large beach towel. Leave out overnight, undisturbed.
5. The next morning, remove the towel and transfer the crock pot to the refrigerator, do not disturb the yogurt. Chill for about 8 hours.
6. Optional Step If your yogurt isn’t thick enough for your preference, strain off some of the whey. Line a colander with a cheesecloth and set in the sink or in a large bowl. Pour the yogurt into the cheesecloth, cover, and let it strain until it reaches your preferred consistency.
7. Ladle the yogurt into mason jars and store in the refrigerator.

Notes

Don’t forget to save ½ cup of the yogurt to use as your starter next time!

- See more at: http://realfoodenthusiast.com/easy-homemade-yogurt-in-the-crock-pot/#sthash.Fn0JpICP.dpuf

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 24 hours

Yield: 2 Quarts

Ingredients

• ½ gallon whole milk
• ½ cup plain yogurt with live and active cultures
Supplies:
• Crock Pot
• Candy Thermometer
• Beach Towel
• Ladle
• Mason Jars
• Colander (optional)
• Cheesecloth (optional)

Directions

1. Pour 1/2 gallon of milk into your crock pot, set it to high, and heat the milk to 180°. My crock pot has a probe that will alert me when it reaches the set temp, but you can just check it occasionally with a candy thermometer. It takes approximately 2 hours.
2. Turn off crock pot, remove lid, and let the milk cool down to 115°. Do not disturb. This takes approximately 6 hours (varies widely depending on the temperature in your house).
3. Once the yogurt has cooled down to 115°, stir in ½ cup of plain yogurt. The temperature cannot be above 120° or it will kill the cultures in the yogurt.
4. Put the lid back on, make sure the crock pot is turned off and unplugged, and wrap the entire crock pot in a large beach towel. Leave out overnight, undisturbed.
5. The next morning, remove the towel and transfer the crock pot to the refrigerator, do not disturb the yogurt. Chill for about 8 hours.
6. Optional Step If your yogurt isn’t thick enough for your preference, strain off some of the whey. Line a colander with a cheesecloth and set in the sink or in a large bowl. Pour the yogurt into the cheesecloth, cover, and let it strain until it reaches your preferred consistency.
7. Ladle the yogurt into mason jars and store in the refrigerator.

Notes

Don’t forget to save ½ cup of the yogurt to use as your starter next time!

- See more at: http://realfoodenthusiast.com/easy-homemade-yogurt-in-the-crock-pot/#sthash.Fn0JpICP.dpuf

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 24 hours

Yield: 2 Quarts

Ingredients

• ½ gallon whole milk
• ½ cup plain yogurt with live and active cultures
Supplies:
• Crock Pot
• Candy Thermometer
• Beach Towel
• Ladle
• Mason Jars
• Colander (optional)
• Cheesecloth (optional)

Directions

1. Pour 1/2 gallon of milk into your crock pot, set it to high, and heat the milk to 180°. My crock pot has a probe that will alert me when it reaches the set temp, but you can just check it occasionally with a candy thermometer. It takes approximately 2 hours.
2. Turn off crock pot, remove lid, and let the milk cool down to 115°. Do not disturb. This takes approximately 6 hours (varies widely depending on the temperature in your house).
3. Once the yogurt has cooled down to 115°, stir in ½ cup of plain yogurt. The temperature cannot be above 120° or it will kill the cultures in the yogurt.
4. Put the lid back on, make sure the crock pot is turned off and unplugged, and wrap the entire crock pot in a large beach towel. Leave out overnight, undisturbed.
5. The next morning, remove the towel and transfer the crock pot to the refrigerator, do not disturb the yogurt. Chill for about 8 hours.
6. Optional Step If your yogurt isn’t thick enough for your preference, strain off some of the whey. Line a colander with a cheesecloth and set in the sink or in a large bowl. Pour the yogurt into the cheesecloth, cover, and let it strain until it reaches your preferred consistency.
7. Ladle the yogurt into mason jars and store in the refrigerator.

Notes

Don’t forget to save ½ cup of the yogurt to use as your starter next time!

- See more at: http://realfoodenthusiast.com/easy-homemade-yogurt-in-the-crock-pot/#sthash.Fn0JpICP.dpuf

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 24 hours

Yield: 2 Quarts

Ingredients

• ½ gallon whole milk
• ½ cup plain yogurt with live and active cultures
Supplies:
• Crock Pot
• Candy Thermometer
• Beach Towel
• Ladle
• Mason Jars
• Colander (optional)
• Cheesecloth (optional)

Directions

1. Pour 1/2 gallon of milk into your crock pot, set it to high, and heat the milk to 180°. My crock pot has a probe that will alert me when it reaches the set temp, but you can just check it occasionally with a candy thermometer. It takes approximately 2 hours.
2. Turn off crock pot, remove lid, and let the milk cool down to 115°. Do not disturb. This takes approximately 6 hours (varies widely depending on the temperature in your house).
3. Once the yogurt has cooled down to 115°, stir in ½ cup of plain yogurt. The temperature cannot be above 120° or it will kill the cultures in the yogurt.
4. Put the lid back on, make sure the crock pot is turned off and unplugged, and wrap the entire crock pot in a large beach towel. Leave out overnight, undisturbed.
5. The next morning, remove the towel and transfer the crock pot to the refrigerator, do not disturb the yogurt. Chill for about 8 hours.
6. Optional Step If your yogurt isn’t thick enough for your preference, strain off some of the whey. Line a colander with a cheesecloth and set in the sink or in a large bowl. Pour the yogurt into the cheesecloth, cover, and let it strain until it reaches your preferred consistency.
7. Ladle the yogurt into mason jars and store in the refrigerator.

Notes

Don’t forget to save ½ cup of the yogurt to use as your starter next time!

- See more at: http://realfoodenthusiast.com/easy-homemade-yogurt-in-the-crock-pot/#sthash.Fn0JpICP.dpuf

Primitives for Sale!!!!

I still have Mrs. Hop and Raggedy Anne for sale. I have also added a new raggedy anne .  Use the BUY NOW buttons at the right to purchase these items.  You must have a Paypal account.  Thank you so much. 

RAGGEDY ANNE:  13 inches tall and made from 100% cotton.  Tea and vanilla stained.  All hand stitched by me!!!  She is $15 plus shipping costs.

MRS. HOP:  She is a prim bunny.  Vanilla and tea stained and all handstitched by me.  $10 plus shipping costs.

RAGGEDY ANNE WITH EGGPLANT HAIR:  She is 16 inches tall and made from 100% muslin.  She is vanilla and tea stain and incredibly cute!  $15 plus shipping costs.

Chapter 2--Confusion and Chaos--What next after that diagnosis of autistic-like

"In the Beginning" was my first installment of my son's journey through Autism-that journey through the hundred acre woods.  You can find that chapter at the beginning of my blog.  I have had much going on in my life since I started this blog and until now have not had an opportunity to continue to write about Caleb's journey.

His journey is all the whole family's journey so please --be patient!!

Caleb was first diagnosed as Austic-like when he was 2 1/2 years old.  I didn't mention that in the first chapter of this saga.  It was confusing to have your child diagnosed as autistic-like.  It's like having them diagnosed as being boy -like or blonde-like or blind-like. It was 1992 and Autism did not have the momentum or exposure that it does today.  The pediatric neurologist that diagnosed Caleb had had very little experience with Autism and therefore was not sure and was also reluctant to stick a label on Caleb (those were his words).  For me, it was not helpful.

First of all, I had no idea what autism was.  I had watched "Rain Man" but Dustin Hoffman portrayed a grown man.  Caleb was only 2 1/2 and didn't behave like the character that was portrayed in the movie.

There was no internet in those days.  I couldn't just run and google the word "autism".  Fortunately, the early intervention workers that had come to work with Caleb gave me the address of the Autism Society of America.  I wrote them and received information back from them.  In that information was not only a definition of autism but a booklet that had been compiled of other parents' stories.  Those stories are where I found the most information and the most solace.

As I read and delved into this world called autism, I found out one thing-- Caleb was not autistic-like.  Caleb had autism.  There was no "like" about it.  Though Caleb made good eye contact with me, he did not make eye contact with anyone else.  He didn't speak.  He focused on objects and found great pleasure in twirling and spinning them.  He also did not play with toys in a normal manner.  His idea of play was lining up his toys in front of himself and doing a strange dance around them.  When spoken to, Caleb never made any indication that he heard or understood.  And though he never came when his name was called, he did come when his favorite cartoon came on the tv. He also knew how to operate the VCR and would rewind his favorite cartoon over and over and over again.

Caleb's favorite cartoon was Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day.  And as time progressed he became obsessed with all things Pooh.  He collected Poohs, he looked at books about Pooh, and he watched cartoons about Pooh.  Caleb lived in the hundred acre woods.  As a side note--Caleb is 23 now and he still lives in the hundred acre woods.  This is his room.

With the knowledge that Caleb was indeed autistic, I knew I needed a formal diagnosis for him as he was soon turning three and would be entering the public school system.  Unfortunately that diagnosis would have to wait.  I was 8 months pregnant awaiting the birth of our daughter , Hannah.

For the first six months after Hannah was born, I did not have time to think about Caleb's autism and his need to have a formal diagnosis.  I was feeling slightly overwhelmed by having three children under the age of 5, two of who were in diapers. Caleb was not even close to being potty trained and frankly at that point in time I didn't even care.  I was barely treading water and felt like I was sinking fast.  So Caleb's diagnosis would have to wait.

Finally in May of 1993, my husband and I were able to take Caleb San to Francisco to receive a formal diagnosis.  My parents watched the other two children as we loaded up the car and began the long drive.

After much research, I had decided that the Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute in San Francisco would be the best place to take Caleb and have him diagnosed.  There were many doctors there who were leading experts in the field of Autism at that time. After a long time spent observing him, the doctors came back with a diagnosis and  recommendations for our school district. Caleb was in fact moderately autistic and mildly retarded.  That was their diagnosis.

I have to tell you, I never agreed with the mildly retarded part.  I still don't.  How do you separate the two?  Without the autism, would Caleb have still been retarded?  Over the years, I can tell you--NO.  Caleb would prove his intelligence over and over and over again as the years progressed.  At that time , though, I resented the added diagnosis of mental retardation and would never address it.

Chapter 3 in this saga will be continued later..... 

Make your own Bath and Body lotions!

Okay.  I admit it.  I am a Bath and Body junkie!  I love, love, love all things Bath and Body.  And for the most part, I make fairly savvy buys.  I only purchase lotions , body sprays, body scrubs, etc... when they are on sale.  But even shopping only on sale, they can still be pricey.

Several years ago, I figured out how to get Bath and Body-like lotions without the price. You can buy unscented lotions all over ebay and the internet and mix them with essential oils and/or scents.    Although some of the homemade lotions are great, they too can be pricey.  Then one day while I was at the dollar store, it hit me.  Most dollar stores carry runny, unscented lotions.  And the price is great.  Only a $1!! You can often get a huge bottle for one buck!

So I started combining essential oils (You only need a few drops) with dollar store lotions. OR if you want to go cheaper (and I did) you can find Concentrated Fragrance Oils all over Ebay.  There are tons of fragrances especially those that Bath and Body carries.  Many of the fragrances start for as little as $6.00 for 1 ounce.  That one ounce will make around 4 or 5 bottles of lotion which makes your cost between $2 to $2.50 per bottle of lotion!Maybe even cheaper!

 I mix the two ingredients- the lotion and the fragrance oil- in a separate container--usually a Glad container that I don't care if it gets thrown away. I use a couple of capfuls of fragrance but you may only want 1 cap or you may want 3.  Use whatever strength you like your lotion to smell. Just remember the more fragrance you add, the runnier the lotion will be.   If the lotion is too runny (and most are) I add cornstarch to the mix until it thickens.  That's right, cornstarch!!  I don't have an exact amount.  Play with it.  It works!  Then using a funnel , I transfer the new lotion mixture to an old Bath and Body lotion bottle I have washed OR use lotion bottles you can get online or at craft stores. 

And you're done!  For pennies on the dollar , you get great smelling lotions fancy enough for any Bath and Body junkie!!

EASY 4 INGREDIENT CHEESECAKE! Yes, you can!

I've said it before--I am not a cook.  I do it because I've had to.  Someone had to feed the kids.  So most of my recipes have revolved around what I have on hand and how quickly I can make it.  This dessert is no exception.  It literally takes 5 minutes to whip up.

4 Ingredient Cheesecake


1 8oz package cream cheese , softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 small tub Cook whip, any kind
1 graham cracker pie crust

Whip the first three ingredients together.  Pour into pie crust.  Chill for half an hour.  Slice and eat.  You can top with cherry or blueberry pie filling for extra pizzazz.  

That's it.  Enjoy your Sunday!!!

More Primitives for Sale!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 I have been working on several more primitives and have a few more to sell.  


If you would like to purchase an item, please use the BUY NOW button to the right of the blog under the item you wish to purchase.  All transactions go through PayPal. Items will be sold on a first come first serve basis. Once an item has been paid for I will mark it sold as soon as I can. Items will be shipped out within 2 days of purchase.


Easter Annie $18.00 plus $5.50 shipping         SOLD SOLD SOLD

Made out of muslin with a 100% cotton dress and pantaloons, Easter Annie has a cute pink dress with Peter Cotton Tail bunnies on the print.  She is 13 inches tall with an embroidered face and wooly yarn hair.  No glue was used only thread to attach everything. (This is not a toy and intended for decoration only).  She holds a bunny rabbit and has a Cherish necklace on her dress.

 Mrs. Hop (Original pattern by Jackie Schmidt from TFC)--$10 plus $5.50 shipping

Made from muslin and tea stained for that primitive look.  13 inches high (decoration only)

 Primitive Annie--$18.00 plus $5.50 shipping

Primitive Annie is a 13 inch cutie made of muslin with an embroidered face and yarn wool hair.  Her printed dress has beehives and bees on it.  She is not a toy and used only for decoration.  Use the BUY NOW button at the right of the blog if you would like to own her!

 

Make your own Easy Microwave Popcorn-cheaper and safer

When my kids were growing up, they would always be hungry when they came home from school.  One snack they especially loved was apples and popcorn. Air poppers for the popcorn were healthy and natural but were messy and a pain to use. It was also one more appliance to clutter up the counter tops in the kitchen.  I started using microwave popcorn.  Unfortunately I didn't know the dangers of microwave popcorn.  (Not to mention that over time, it is pricey).

A report from the FDA indicates that a chemical coating used in microwave popcorn bags breaks down when heated into a substance called perfluorooctanoic (PFOA). The Environmental Protection Agency has identified PFOA as a “likely carcinogen.” Another study has found an acid that can be extracted from the chemical causes cancer in animals and is “likely to cause cancer in humans.”
A second potential danger in microwave popcorn is diacetyl, an FDA-approved chemical found in the fake butter flavoring. There’s even a debilitating respiratory disease called “popcorn workers lung,” (the medical name of the condition is bronchiolitis obliterans) suffered by microwave popcorn factory workers caused by extended inhalation of the chemical’s fumes. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, (NIOSH) concluded that diacetyl needs further study so that workers in the flavorings and snack industry are no longer at risk
The Food and Drug Administration continues to study whether consumers can develop lung disease from inhaling diacetyl. In response to the concerns regarding the risks of diacetyl exposure, a number of microwave popcorn manufacturers have discontinued using it in their products.

Read more: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/dangers-of-microwave-popcorn.html#ixzz2JNoppSVI

I wish I had known back then how simple and cheap it really is to make your own microwave popcorn. 

Here is what you will need:

1 bag unpopped pop corn (I buy the store brand but buy whatever you like)

1 larger container to pour the unpopped popcorn into

paper bag lunch sacks

vegetable or olive oil

popcorn seasoning or salt

1.  In a container , pour your unpopped popcorn. 

2. Add 2 tablespoons oil 

3.  Add 2 teaspoons of salt (optional)

4.  Put lid on container and shake up

5.  Put a 1/4 cup or 1/2 cup scooper inside the container for easy use

6.  Put 1/2 cup uncooked kernels into the paper bag.  Fold over twice.  Cook for 3 minutes (or adjust for your microwave.   Make sure you cook the bag on its bottom and not on its side.  It will burn if you cook the bag on its side.  The oil will bleed a little through the bag but that does not hurt anything.

7.  Add some seasoning if you like and enjoy!

I make up several bags a few days ahead of time so they are easy to grab and cook.  This is so easy the kids can do it themselves.

I don't have the numbers as to how much cheaper this method is (I don't do math).  I do know a big bag of uncooked store brand popcorn was $3.29 in my store.  Add the bags which were 50 bags for under two dollars and the oil and season and you have a lot of popcorn for much, much less than the microwave stuff in the store.  AND the biggest perk is no nasty chemicals (unless you add some)!

Enjoy!!