Happy National Sandwich Day!

 

I wanted to share one of my favorite sandwiches for National Sandwich Day today. This is a Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarian sandwich as it has mayonnaise, white cheese such as Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack, and cream cheese. It is perfect for having with soup or by itself. I love it with a glass of buttermilk.

 

Veggie Delight Sandwich

 

Ingredients:

• 2 Slices of Bread (seedy wheat or sourdough) 
• Softened Cream Cheese
• Condiments (mayonnaise, Grey Poupon mustard, stone ground mustard, or horseradish sauce, or a combination)
• 2 Slices of Sliced White Cheese (Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack) 
• Sprouts (aka micro-greens) (alfalfa sprouts, broccoli sprouts, clover sprouts, or radish sprouts, or a combination)
• Sliced Avocado
  
• Sliced Mushrooms (button, shiitake, or baby bella)
• Sliced Tomato
• Sliced Cucumber

 

Instructions:

1. Spread  cream cheese on one of the slices of bread and your choice of condiments on the other.
2. Layer some sliced cucumber, sliced tomato, and cheese on the side with the condiments.
3. Layer some sprouts sliced mushrooms, and sliced avocado on the side with the cream cheese.
4. Put both sides of the bread together with the ingredients in the middle to make the sandwich.
5. Cut the sandwich down the center or across to make two halves.
6. Enjoy!
   

Kid-Friendly New Year's Eve Ideas From Kidstir!

Look what we are doing for New Year's Eve! Kidstir has put together some fun things for families with kids to ring in the New Year and you can join in the fun. Teach your kids how to say cheers from countries around the globe with this downloadable print out for some around-the-world fun.

Kidstir also has a healthy drink recipe for your kids to toast the New Year called Grape Fizz! Yum! 

And don't forget to put on some Silly 'Staches & Smiles while you count down to midnight! You can even add them to your straw for fun while you drink.

Zari with her silly stash 😁

About Kidstir
Kidstir is a unique cooking kit subscription service for children that can be joined or given as a gift, or you can send one of the single kits, as well. Each month, Kidstir will send your child a box filled with three delicious, nutritious recipes, kid-size cooking tools, games and activities! This subscription focuses on nutrition and hands-on fun. Created by moms who know that through cooking, children will gain important life skills in the kitchen — and cook up some fun family memories through the process.

Monthly, 3 month, 6 month, and 12 month subscriptions are available with free shipping. Plus, Kidstir will debut a new surprise kit which will be revealed on the 21st of each month! All subscribers receive a 2 year magazine subscription to Real Simple, Parents or All Recipes magazines as a thank you bonus. A Cookbook Binder and Sibling cooking tools & creative materials can be added at checkout.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received this information and images for this post. I wrote this blog post because I thought you might be interested in knowing this information and taking part of the fun. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I will be receiving samples later to try out and review.

Wordless Wednesday Ham and Potatoes Sarladaise For Dinner

Ham and Potatoes Sarladaise for Dinner. Click for Recipe Link.

Foodie Friday Sweet Pepper & Tomato Crustless Quiche #FoodieFriday

I love living on a farm and owning chickens! One of the benefits of having my 8 hens is the free abundance of farm fresh eggs. We get many different colors and sizes. Sometimes we are blessed with an unusually large egg. I am not sure which one of our hens laid the one shown in the picture, but it turned out to have a double yolk inside!

I also love that I can teach my kids where our food actually comes from. Having it come straight from our own farm is a wonderful teaching and learning experience for them. I believe that this is extremely important for future generations because so many children now grow up thinking that food comes from the grocery store or supermarket. I love that I have this awesome opportunity with my children to teach them gardening, agriculture, home cooking/baking and other dying skills that need to be passed on.

Speaking of home cooking, my kids and I made two Sweet Pepper & Tomato Crustless Quiches the other day for dinner. I love a good quiche and crustless ones are so easy to whip together! My chickens' eggs also make them the best! Here is the recipe for this one...

Sweet Pepper & Tomato Crustless Quiche

Ingredients for one quiche:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large sweet pepper; seeded, destemmed and diced (We used a green and red one because we made two quiches, but any color is fine.)
• 5 eggs
• 1 medium onion; peeled and diced
• 3 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• A handful of dried tomatoes (We had these in a bag from a summer of slicing, dehydrating, and freezing them. If you don't have homemade dried ones I suggest getting some sun dried ones from the store.)

Equipment needed:

• 1 - 9 inch round pie plate
• 1 whisk
• 1 - 12 inch skillet (I love my cast iron ones!)
• 1 spatula
• 1 mixing spoon
• 1 mixing bowl 
• 1 oven with stove top

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F with rack in the middle. 
2. Lightly butter the inside of the pie plate to make it nonstick and set it aside.
3. Saute the onion and sweet pepper in butter in the skillet over medium-high heat, stirring with the spatula occasionally, about 5 minutes.
4. Whisk together eggs and milk in the mixing bowl, then add the onion and sweet pepper mixture and most of the cheese, saving some out to go on top before baking. Fold this mixture together with the mixing spoon.
5. Pour this mixture into the pie plate, sprinkling the last of the cheese on top.
6. Take the handful of dried tomatoes and place them evenly on top.
7. Bake uncovered until top is golden and egg blend has set in center, about 35 minutes.
8. Cool slightly, about 10 minutes, before cutting into wedges.
9. Enjoy!
 

The Berenstain Bears' Holiday Cookbook: Cub-Friendly Cooking With an Adult Review

I received this book free to facilitate this review. Affiliate links may be in this posting. Thanks for supporting my blog.

The Berenstain Bears' Holiday Cookbook: Cub-Friendly Cooking With an Adult written by Mike Berenstain has 40 delicious recipes that cater to different American holidays around the year. Join Mama, Papa, Brother, Sister, and Honey Bear as they share 40 of their favorite Bear family holiday recipes. These include traditional favorites like Hot Apple Cinnamon Cider, Cozy Hot Chocolate, and Pumpkin Pie to fun and unique recipes like: Candy Corn Punch, Creepy Crawly Pasta Salad, and Gobbler Apple Muffins.

This hardcover cookbook is laid out well. At the beginning there is a contents page with a list of the recipes in each section and their page numbers. It has 6 sections for different holidays: Valentine's Day, Easter, Forth of July, Fall Festivities, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Each section has 6-8 recipes. Each section starts out with a scripture, a short story, and a poem. Each recipe has a title, what is needed, and directions along with a photograph of the finished food or beverage. At the end there is a page of Kitchen Measurements in both standard and metric.

A peek inside The Berenstain Bears' Holiday Cookbook.

I remember The Berenstain Bears' book series from my childhood. I love them and have ever since I was very young. These books teach children how God want them to live everyday. The Berenstain Bears' book series teach children good character traits and values. I love the simplicity of the illustrations and country town feel that the Bear family has.

I adore The Berenstain Bears' Holiday Cookbook! My kids love to help me cook and bake and this is a great cookbook just for that bonding experience. I can't wait 'til we can make the: Christmas Holiday Pinwheels, Valentine's Day Pizza, Krispie Easter Eggs, or Forth of July Freedom Trifle! There are so many other fun recipes as well. It has wonderful kid-friendly recipes that are perfect to make with your children or grandchildren for the holidays.

BUY IT


You can also purchase The Berenstain Bears' Holiday Cookbook: Cub-Friendly Cooking With an Adult at Zondervan for $12.99.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received this product for free to facilitate this review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review. Affiliate links may be in this posting. Thanks for supporting my blog.

Get Herb Fairies Book One Absolutely Free!

So I told you about Herb Fairies the other day and maybe you are on the edge about enrolling. Well I have a great surprise for you! You can download Herb Fairies Book One absolutely free! That way you can see for yourself how awesome this book series really is and how much of a great learning opportunity it will be for you and your child!

Follow this link to get it free without obligation!...
learning-herbs.com/t?orid=240373&opid=37

If you do decide to enroll you will also get all sorts of added bonuses along with the complete eBook series too! Hurry though because you don't want to miss this offer! Enrollment will end on April 30th at midnight! Don't delay! If you act now you will also be able to save $10 on the subscription!

Get your free book now and see what others say about Herb Fairies!
learning-herbs.com/t?orid=240373&opid=37

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I wrote this blog post because I thought you might be interested in knowing this information and taking part of this deal. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post. Affiliate links can be found in this post. Thank you for your support of this blog!  

Herb Fairies is Now Open for Enrollment!

Herb Fairies is a complete children's herbal learning system. While geared towards kids these help young and old alike learn herbs in a fun way. I love to use these in homeschooling! Both my sons and daughters love these.

These interactive eBook stories were written by Kimberly Gallagher, the creator of Wildcraft! An Herbal Adventure Board Game.

The 13 Herb Fairies eBooks pick up where the Wildcraft! game left off. Herb Fairies teaches kids that not only do herbs for healing and eating exist, but they teach how to use them. They teach these things with storytelling and mentoring. You do the activities with your children and help them learn and you learn right along with them.

Each eBook is about 40-50 pages. They are available for printing (PDF), iPad and Kindle. When you sign up for the book club you get full access to the Herb Fairies website and each eBook comes with supplementary materials. You get the first 2 books first and then each month you will get a new book until all 13 are delivered. On every page there is a color illustration so these are pleasing to small children as well as older ones.

The “Magic Keeper’s Journal” comes with the Herb Fairies ebooks. It is coloring pages, recipe cards and a book with activities, puzzles, games and more to make it a completely interactive experience.

Also included is a bonus audio book version for when your kids want to listen during the day, and you’re too busy OR if they like to fall asleep listening to audio books. This is read by Kimberly the creator of the Herb Fairies.

With each Herb Fairy book you also get an accompanying issue of Herbal Roots Zine. These are full issues which give you more information about each herb. These also include songs, stories, poems, games, puzzles, mazes, word searches, crafts and MUCH more. These are also digitally delivered and are valued at $7.99 an issue.

Also, you get a bonus Herbal Remedies for Children During Cold & Flu Season eBook by Rosalee de la Forêt. This covers a lot of the herbs that you will be learning about in Herb Fairies. Your child will become more receptive to the medicine you make with the herbs they are learning about. This alone is valued at $37 and is 93 pages.

Go now to find out the exceptional savings you will have by enrolling now. You only have until midnight on April 30th and then the offer will disappear until next year. Please hurry! This offer is only available for a limited time! http://learning-herbs.com/t?orid=240373&opid=36

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I wrote this blog post because I thought you might be interested in knowing this information and taking part of this deal. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post. Affiliate links can be found in this post. Thank you for your support of this blog!

7 Simple Secrets For Infusing Healthful Herbs Into Your Family’s Life

Do you want to go beyond store-bought remedies, capsules, and tinctures?
To integrate healthful herbs into your family’s life?

Kimberly Gallagher from LearningHerbs will show you how in a free webinar this Thursday:
“The Nourished Herbal Kitchen Tour: 7 Simple Secrets For Infusing Healthful Herbs Into Your Family’s Life”

In this webinar Kimberly Gallagher will share…

• A tour of her kitchen and how she designed it to integrate nourishing herbs into her family’s diet
• How to go beyond store bought remedies, capsules, and tinctures 
• How to make 7 family herbal staples...including nourishing herbal infusions, potent herbal vinegars, super bone broth, sweet herbal honeys, seaweed sprinkles, pestos, Hailey's favorite Chai, and more!

Kimberly will share her favorite recipes, step-by-step...so you can start building YOUR family's nourished herbal kitchen the next day.

Kimberly will give a tour of her kitchen and share her favorite recipes, step-by-step... plus, if this webinar is anything like previous ones, there should be LOTS of cool giveaways!

Ready to build your family’s nourished herbal kitchen? Go here to reserve your spot:
learning-herbs.com/t?orid=240373&opid=35

Can’t wait to see you there!

P.S. During the webinar there will be a live Q&A. So start jotting down your questions now, and don’t forget to sign up by going here:
learning-herbs.com/t?orid=240373&opid=35

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post. Affiliate links can be found in this post. Thank you for your support of this blog!

This Powerful Ingredient Will Supercharge Your Smoothie #EarthDay #wildfood #greensmoothie

Did you know?

• Stinging nettle is a super source of vitamins, minerals & nutrients MORE powerful than most veggies.
• Nettle leaf supports healthy energy levels. It’s great if you’re feeling run down.
• And one really DELICIOUS way to get your nettles is making a smoothie!

Yes, it’s sting-free and perfect to make for Earthday because right now is stinging nettle season and hey, it is green!

In this free video from LearningHerbs, John and his daughter Hailey show you how to harvest nettles and turn them into a delicious smoothie called “The Earth Shake.” 

Opt-in and learn how to make it in this new video from LearningHerbs:
http://bit.ly/nettleshake

To make it easier for you in the kitchen, LearningHerbs has also included a printable recipe card. This way, you don't have to take notes!

Get the recipe here now:
http://bit.ly/nettleshake

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post. Affiliate links can be found in this post. Thank you for your support of this blog! 

Awesome Herbal Recipes for Kids (and Kids At Heart!)

I have something really cool to share with you today…

The Herb Fairies are offering a free download of their herbal cookbook!

This cookbook has 13 fun herbal recipes you can make with kids (or kids at heart!), from chickweed grilled cheese to REAL marshmallows and dandelion flower cookies.

To get the cookbook, all you have to do is opt-in for their free Herb Fairies video series, which is pretty awesome, too!

Get it here now:
http://bit.ly/healthconsciouskids

So, why not go out in the yard, pick some dandelion flowers, and make some cookies?!

Also,  when you sign up, you won’t JUST get the cookbook… You’ll also get access to a new video series that includes a yummy smoothie with stinging nettles!

Check it out now:
http://bit.ly/healthconsciouskids

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post. Affiliate links can be found in this post. Thank you for your support of this blog!

How To Raise a Healthy Child In a Junk-Food World

Do your kids prefer potato chips to carrot sticks?

Is it ever a struggle to get your kids to take that icky tasting syrup when they’re sick?

Are you overwhelmed or confused by the insane amount of conflicting natural health information?

In their new video, Kimberly and John Gallagher from LearningHerbs share how you can overcome these parenting obstacles in WAY less time than they did.

Get the secret to raising health-conscious kids in this awesome free video:
http://bit.ly/healthconsciouskids

Also, when you sign up, you won’t JUST get the video… You’ll also get their kids herbal cookbook free, which features chickweed grilled cheese sandwiches, REAL marshmallows, and more!

Go get the video and cookbook now:
http://bit.ly/healthconsciouskids

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post. Affiliate links can be found in this post. Thank you for your support of this blog!

Camerons Stovetop Smoker Review, Homegating Tips, and Alder Smoked Salmon Spread Recipe

I received the Camerons Stovetop Smoker and Wood Chips free to facilitate this review. Affiliate links may be in this posting. Thanks for supporting my blog.

Homegating, throwing a sports viewing party at home, is becoming more and more popular because of the increased prices of sporting events and bad weather surrounding some games. The cost to attend these events is getting too expensive and then even after you have spent all that money for a ticket there are traveling, boarding, food, drink, parking, and memorabilia costs. Homegating is so much easier than tailgating and your wallet will be a lot happier. There is really no place like home for the big game!

Here are 10 tips to make your Homegating an awesome crowd pleasing experience...

1. Decorate your home inside and out like a champion with your favorite team's colors and logos. Banners, streamers, balloons, buntings, flags, coasters, wall stickers, lights, throw pillows, throws, etc., make the party more inviting. If you are having a backyard homegate make sure your patio/deck is cleaned, prepared, decorated with seating and patio heater/firepit to keep everyone comfy.
2. Dress up with your favorite team's jersey and colors. Go all out and let everyone know whose side you are rooting for by painting your face, hair, and/or nails.
3. Have the big screen and sound system ready for action.
4. Have enough cozy seating for your you and your guests where all can enjoy the game.
5. Make sure to have enough yummy, mouthwatering food (smoked or grilled meat, sides, desserts, snacks, dips and sauces, etc.) and beverages (don't forget the non-alcoholic cocktails and soda pop!) on hand and more than enough refrigerator/table/cooler space to store it all before and during the game. 
6. Keep your food warm with a slow cooker crock and your drinks cool with a ice chest.
7. Make sure your grill is cleaned, prepped, and in great working order with enough propane or charcoal to get you through before you start grilling.
8. Go the extra mile with a Camerons Stovetop Smoker and Camerons Wood Chips for fantastic smoked meat and veggies!
9. Have fun activities ready to occupy your guests during breaks and/or commercials.
10. Don't forget your camera, tablet, or smartphone. You don't want to miss taking pictures of your guests and spread, or telling your social media outlets scores and play-by-plays of super moves.

About the Camerons Stovetop Smoker:

• Stainless steel smoker works over any heat source, including open flame, oven, grill, or stovetop. Induction capable. Can smoke large and small items on any heat surface!
• Smokes meat, fish, poultry, seafood and vegetables.
• Pan with cover is made of durable stainless-steel; dishwasher-safe.
• Doubles as a steamer, so you really get two great cookers in one product!
• Includes samples of two woodchip flavors and recipes.
• One year manufacturers warranty.
• Original Standard: $49.99 and Original Mini: $34.99 arv

About the Camerons Stovetop Wood Chips:

• 100% natural wood chips - kiln dried with no additives.
• Comes in 9 flavors: alder, apple, bourbon soaked oak, cherry, hickory, maple, mesquite, oak, and pecan.
• Superfine ground chips perfect for indoor smoking.
• Can be used in any smoker including the Stovetop Smoker.
• Starts to smolder quickly and combusts 100% within 20 minutes.
• 1-1/2 to 2 tablespoons create perfect flavor infusion.
• Packed in resealable plastic tubs.
• No expiration date.
• Made in USA.
• 10-pack (1 pint of each flavor plus two hickory, unless you specify different): $34.00 arv

My Thoughts:
I love Camerons Stovetop Smoker! I've never had an indoor smoker and this makes smoking meat and veggies super easy. Since it is stainless steel it is simple to clean too! We received the smoker and the two samples of wood chips that came with it in the box were Hickory and Oak. I also got a larger tub of Alder wood chips separately. I decided to make an Alder Smoked Salmon according to the directions that came with the Stovetop Smoker and make it into a yummy dip or spread for crackers. I did find that the cooking time was about 55 minutes for a 2 pound fish instead of the 25 they suggest; although, my salmon was thick. I also added foil to the drip plate and sprayed the rack with olive oil for easier cleanup. My house smelled so good while the salmon was being smoked! Make sure you have your overhead stove vent on because it does smoke a little out the corners of the lid. This would be an easy, delicious side to make pre-game so that it can chill in the fridge prior to game day.

Alder Smoked Salmon Spread Recipe

• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 12 ounces Alder smoked salmon, flaked
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried dill
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onion
• 3 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
• 3 drops hot pepper sauce
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon squeezed)

Whip the cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Place in fridge to chill about an hour. Serve with crackers.

BUY IT


DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received these products for free to facilitate this review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review. Affiliate links may be in this posting. Thanks for supporting my blog.

Reindeer Dust Book Review

I received Reindeer Dust Book free to facilitate this review. Affiliate links may be in this posting. Thanks for supporting my blog.

I love celebrating Christmas with my family and all the old traditions that we keep during the holiday season. These traditions, beliefs, and customs have been passed down from generation to generation. My family has a holiday reading tradition that we practice. We read holiday books every year at Christmas Eve. I also love creating new traditions and learning about others as well. New traditions can be just as fun as old ones. For our old tradition of our book reading as a family we received a new book this year called Reindeer Dust. This book also has a fun, new tradition within its pages that we have not heard of until now.

Reindeer Dust written by Kate Dwyer and illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff is a super adorable interactive book about another wonderful Christmas tradition that you can do with your kids this year. At first I thought that this book was all about how the reindeer were sprinkled with magic dust to help them fly (you know, like fairy dust), but as I read the story I came to understand. In this sweet story Santa is so busy he forgets to feed the reindeer on Christmas Eve. When Santa goes out in his sleigh with the reindeer in the lead, they are met with some heavy fog and are very hungry and tired. A clever little boy notices the weather and devises a plan with a recipe of the reindeers' favorite food ingredients (oats for energy, bran for strength, and brown sugar to make it sparkle) to help point Santa and his reindeer in the right direction so that even in the fog he can find the houses.

Image source: reindeerdust.com

The rhyming tale and cute illustrations make this book a wonderful story to read for the Christmas season to promote literacy, but that isn't all that this book has to offer. Along with the lyrical story and illustrations it has the actual recipe for the dust which makes 15-20 servings and a short poem that can be read on Christmas Eve. as the children are sprinkling their reindeer dust. This sprinkling of Reindeer Dust on the ground outside your home so that Santa's reindeer can find you is a special holiday tradition that encourages family togetherness and helps bring the excitement of Christmas and believing in the magic of the holiday back to the children.

So go ahead, sprinkle a bit of magic into the holidays with this fun new family tradition!

Be Social:
Websites: www.reindeerdust.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sparklingreindeerdust
Twitter: @reindeer_dust

BUY IT


DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received this product for free to review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review. Affiliate links may be in this posting. Thanks for supporting my blog.

Ann McCallum Books Eat Your Science Homework Cookbook Review

My family had the privilege of trying the Eat Your Science Homework cookbook by Ann McCallum Books from the Eat Your Homework Book Series for this review to use in conjunction with our own homeschool curriculum. This is a Schoolhouse Review Crew Review. All opinions expressed are my own or those of my family.

Ann McCallum is a teacher and writer of educational books for kids. She has written a number of books about math like: Rabbits, Rabbits Everywhere: A Fibonacci Sequence, The Secret Life of Math, Beanstalk: The Measure of a Giant, and Eat Your Math Homework: Recipes for Hungry Minds. In the Eat Your Homework Book Series she has written three books: Eat Your Math Homework: Recipes For Hungry Minds, Eat Your Science Homework: Recipes For Inquiring Minds, and Eat Your US History Homework: Recipes For Revolutionary Minds. These three books are all Illustrated by Leeza Hernandez.

Have you ever tried doing homework on an empty stomach? The growling and rumbling of your tummy and hunger pains are very distracting. They sure don't help you focus on the task at hand.

The Eat Your Science Homework cookbook helps turn your kitchen into a laboratory, recipes into experiments, and food into science. It is a 48 page paperback book that teaches bits and pieces of science while making stuff to eat. The book starts off with an introduction with a page on safety in the kitchen. Then it goes into six science themed recipes for children ages 7-10 to make with adults. Recipes range from popcorn balls to lasagna that has pizza ingredients. Each recipe has a page about the science, what ingredients and equipment you will need and the directions on how to make it, and lastly a page or two of science facts and a science sampler which gives more activities and experiments to do. After the recipes there is a section in the book that is a review of the science learned, a glossary, and an index. On the website you can also download an Educators Guide to expand upon the science concepts even more and give the student extra activities to do. Not only do you get to do fun science experiments, but you get to eat them too! This edible science will get your student thinking and make their tummies less grumbly.

How We Used This and Our Thoughts:

My girls who are 5 and 7 years old made the Sedimentary Pizza Lasagna recipe from this book with me for one of our dinners. We had fun tuning our kitchen into a science lab, making this meal for our family, and learning about the science behind rocks while we baked it. My kids love helping in the kitchen and researching all things scientific, so this was the best of both worlds. We learned about sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rock properties, what a mineral is, and the Mohs Scale of hardness while making this delicious food. The recipe turned out perfect and it was super yummy as well.

Making Sedimentary Pizza Lasagna from the Eat Your Science Homework cookbook.

Eat Your Science Homework is well written and the illustrations are adorable. The approach is easy to understand, even for my 5 year old. With help from parents or other care giving adults kids can have fun in the kitchen while learning key scientific ideas.

With Eat Your Science Homework I found that my girls understood the scientific concepts better than just telling them because it is makes the learning very hands-on. Besides the science it teaches, it also shows the student how to read and decipher recipes and how to use the equipment properly in the kitchen. I believe that all children should be able to know their way around the kitchen and recipes. My girls got to mix, stir, measure, layer, pour, spread, etc. The skills involved in preparing food, cooking and baking are skills that all children should acquire so they can grow up eating homemade, healthy well-balanced meals. This is the reason I involve my kids in the kitchen as much as possible.

Sedimentary Pizza Lasagna...look at the layers!

I highly recommend the Eat Your Science Homework cookbook for anyone who wants to help teach science in a fun, positive way with something more than just a science experiment in the end. We absolutely love this book by Ann McCallum and we are planning on purchasing the rest of the series.

BUY IT
You can purchase Eat Your Science Homework for $16.95 on the Charlesbridge books website.

Follow Them on Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annmccallumbooks
Twitter: https://twitter.com/eathomework

Read other homeschool curriculum reviews for Ann McCallum Books...

12 Days of Christmas with Six Sisters' Stuff Review and Giveaway

We received this product free from Shadow Mountain to facilitate this review, an opportunity to host a giveaway and participate in the blog tour. This post contains affiliate links which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and make a purchase. Thank you for supporting my blog!

One of my favorite blogs to read is the Six Sisters' Stuff blog. This blog was created by 6 biological sisters: Camille, Kristen, Elyse, Stephanie, Lauren, and Kendra that wanted to stay in touch and share recipes, crafts, projects and neat ideas with each other while apart. Growing up with just sisters and no brothers in my family I can relate with this blog a lot...even though I only have 2 younger sisters. These sisters also share another similarity with me...they are all of the LDS/Mormon faith. Their blog is also in the "Why Are YOUR Favorite Bloggers Mormon?" list of blogs that I frequently visit.

Six Sisters' Stuff is back for the holidays with their third book, 12 Days of Christmas with Six Sisters' Stuff. This book is loaded with creative ideas for Christmas. There are 144 recipes, DIY crafts to Deck The Halls with, homemade and handcrafted gift ideas, party ideas, ways to serve, family traditions, tips, and more. This book is split up into 12 topics having 12 different fun ideas underneath each. It definitely is a great way to organize the book. It has 143 pages packed with full color easy recipes, crafts, projects and ideas similar to the ones on their blog. These were all compiled as a collection of their family favorites. You can make all kinds of things from it that are simple to create and easily affordable too. Both their blog and the book reminds me of the many creative things we made at Young Women activities and still make in Relief Society. A table of contents in the front and an index in the back keep it simple to find everything. I will definitely be keeping this book on hand as a go to book for helping me: create yummy meals and desserts quickly, decorate my home for the holidays, and create unique one of a kind gifts for friends and family.

The recipes in this book look so delicious! I can't wait to try out these desserts: Cherry Chocolate Muffins, Nutella Banana Bread, Eggnog Gingerbread Trifle, and Almond Joy Bars! Yummy! Again the Six Sisters' Stuff does not disappoint when it comes down to slow cooker meals. I love my Crock-pot and use it a lot! I will be trying out the Slow-Cooker Chicken Fajita Soup and the Slow-Cooker Ham and Pineapple Sandwiches soon.

I love that this book makes it easy to make so many neat things for the home and others. I love to throw together cookie plates for neighbors and friends and this cookbook makes it easy to do so because it has 12 to pick from! Not only that, but the 12 Days of Christmas with Six Sisters' Stuff has wonderful ideas for gifts that are inexpensive and easy to make. I love the Burlap Handprint Tree Skirt, the Wood Photo Blocks, and the Christmas Monogram Hanging.

This book is wonderful to get us in the holiday spirit, deck the halls, and get together with family and friends in "The Most Wonderful Time of Year!". Celebrate the joy of the season with the Six Sisters' Stuff.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
12 Christmas Cookies
12 Days of Christmas for Your "True Love"
12 Family Traditions
12 Christmas Brunch Recipes
12 Sanity-Saving Christmas Tips
12 Christmas Party Ideas
12 Spectacular Christmas Treats
12 Ways to Give Back
12 Gifts for Neighbors
12 Quick and Easy Family Dinners
12 Homemade Christmas Gifts
12 DIY Christmas Decorations

Buy the Six Sisters' Stuff Books:



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DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received products for free to facilitate my review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review. This post contains affiliate links which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and make a purchase. Thank you for supporting my blog!

Immune Boosting Fire Cider Recipe for Colds and Flu

Fire Cider

Prepare this fall and winter season before things get too cold by making a batch of Fire Cider a.k.a. Master Tonic or Flu Shots. Fire Cider, an all natural cold and flu folk remedy, has been a tradition passed down through the ages of time. This fiery concoction is an immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, warming, decongestant, and helps with circulation & digestion. Its flavor is potent, hot, spicy, pungent, sour and sweet all mixed together.

There are many ways to make this recipe, but most agree upon the basic ingredients of ginger, horseradish, onion, garlic, and chile peppers or cayenne powder. These ingredeients are infused with apple cider vinegar, which is strained and mixed with honey. Rosemary Gladstar, a well known herbalist, coined the term Fire Cider over 35 years ago and published her recipe in her book, Rosemary Gladstar's Medicinal Herbs on page 74. My recipe is adapted from Rosemary Gladstar's version with some added extras of my own. I would encourage you to experiment and make your own according to your own tastes and available ingredients. I have included my recipe below with a few variations and other optional ingredients. The outcomes range from super spicy to something that gently warms. It is fun to play with the mixture of the ingredients and see what subtleties you can taste from the differences.

My Fire Cider Ingredients

Ingredients (* = an optional ingredient I used in mine)

• ½ cup ginger root, pealed and grated or pealed and diced (great for stomach problems, digestion, blood circulation, upper respiratory tract infections, cough, and bronchitis)
• ½ cup horseradish root, pealed and grated or pealed and diced (great for a number of things including digestion, blood circulation, upper respiratory tract infections, cough, tonsillitis, sinus infections and bronchitis. anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-septic, stimulant)
• 1 medium onion, pealed and diced (great for a number of things including blood circulation, upper respiratory tract infections, cough. anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant)
• 10 cloves of garlic, pealed and minced or pealed and diced (great for a number of things including coughs, colds, sore throats, blood circulation, viral infections, and bacterial infections. anti-bacterial, anti-septic, anti-viral)
• 2 chile peppers like jalapeño, cayenne or habanero peppers, chopped or ¼ tsp ground cayenne or pinch of dried chillies (vitamin C-rich, anti-inflammatory, vasodilator for healthy blood flow)
• *1 lemon, juiced and zested and/or quartered and thinly sliced crosswise (vitamin C-rich, aids digestion, and anti-oxidant)
• *rosemary, several fresh sprigs or 2 tbsp dried (great for a number of things including digestion, cough, stimulating immune system, increases blood flow. anti-inflammatory)
• *1 tbsp turmeric or ¼ cup fresh grated or pealed and diced turmeric (great for a number of things including stomach problems, digestion, cough, and bronchitis, colds. anti-inflammatory, anti-infection, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-oxidant, adaptogen - lessens stress and helps boost immunity)
• *cinnamon, to taste or a couple of cinnamon sticks (great for a number of things including coughs, colds, sore throats, viral infections and bacterial infections. anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-microbial)
• raw unfiltered unpasteurized apple cider vinegar (at least 5% acidity) (great for a number of things including digestion, sore throats, colds, flu, infections. anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, energy booster, pro-biotic)
• raw local honey, to taste (to be added after a month when herb infused vinegar is ready to be strained to complete the Fire Cider) (great for a number of things including sore throats, colds, coughs, infections. anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, pro-biotic)

More Optional Additions

• cardamom, to taste (helps relieve digestive problems induced by garlic and onion)
• garam masala, to taste (usually a blend of turmeric, cloves, nutmeg, mace spice, cinnamon, peppercorns, cumin, cardamom)
• curry, to taste (usually a blend of coriander, turmeric, cumin, fenugreek, and chili powder or cayenne) (great for a number of things including stomach problems, digestion, cough, and bronchitis, colds. anti-inflammatory, anti-infection, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-oxidant, adaptogen - lessens stress and helps boost immunity)
• cloves, powder to taste or tsp buds (great for a number of things including digestion, blood circulation, coughs, stress. anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-septic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, immune booster and stimulant)
• nutmeg or mace spice powder to taste (great for a number of things including digestion, sleep, blood flow. anti-oxidant, anti-fungal, anti-depressant, immune booster)
• thyme, several fresh sprigs or 2 tbsp dried (great for a number of things including sore throats, coughs, whooping cough, bronchitis, chest congestion, and bacterial infections. anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial)
• basil, several fresh sprigs or 2 tbsp dried (anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory)
• oregano, several fresh sprigs or 2 tbsp dried (anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, nutrient dense)
• prunella a.k.a. all heal or self heal, 1 tbsp freshly chopped or dried leaves (anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-septic)
• hibiscus flowers, 1 tsp dried (vitamin C-rich, anti-oxidant)
• rose hips, small handful (great for chest ailments, coughs, colds. vitamin C-rich)
• elderberries (Sambucus nigra), small handful (great for coughs, colds, flu, bacterial and viral infections and tonsillitis. anti-bacterial, anti-viral, vitamin C-rich, anti-oxidant)
• hawthorn berries, small handful (great for digestion, cardiovascular, circulatory, and respiratory, blood flow. vitamin C-rich, anti-oxidant)
• pomegranate seeds/arils, juiced (vitamin C-rich, anti-oxidant)
• sun-dried tomatoes, small handful diced (vitamin C-rich, anti-oxidant)
• other smallish citrus fruits, juiced and zested and/or quartered and thinly sliced crosswise (vitamin C-rich, anti-oxidant)
• ½-1 tsp black peppercorns (digestive stimulant and expectorant)
• other immune system boosting ingredients you want to add

Equipment

• cutting board
• sharp knife/peeler/grater
• canning funnel
• 1 quart size jar
• parchment or wax paper
• cheesecloth or a large ricer (something to strain it after a month or so)

The ingredients before and after Apple Cider Vinegar.

Directions
After preparing; layer and pack all roots, herbs, spices, vegetables and fruit into a clean 1-quart jar. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the contents, making sure they are covered with it. Tap the side gently to make sure the air bubbles rise to the surface and pop. Place a square of parchment or wax paper under the lid so that it doesn't acidify the metal and cause corrosion or use a plastic lid that fits. Tighten lid onto the jar. Shake well. Compost all peals and scraps.

Compost the lovely scraps.

Let the jar sit and steep for a month or longer in a cool dark place, shaking daily. After the month is up strain and decant the vinegar into a clean jar. Add honey to taste. Refrigerate and use within a year.

Serving Suggestions
Take 1-2 tbsp at the first sign of cold and repeat the dose every 3-4 hours until symptoms subside. If you love spicy hot flavors you could even have a whole shot glass full to ward off the nasties.You can also take it throughout the cold and flu season to prevent symptoms from occurring at all.

Make something out of the ingredients you strained out (if you used cinnamon sticks you can grate them as well. waste not want not!):

• spicy egg/spring rolls
• a spicy veggie pancake
• a spicy pizza
• sautée with meats, tempeh, or tofu for a stir fry, soup, or ingredients for a sandwich or wrap
• mince and add to a chip dip, marinade or condiment
• make up your own

Use the Fire Cider herb infused vinegar to:

• baste or marinate meats, tempeh, or tofu
• drizzle over salads as a dressing
• drizzle over steamed veggies or sautéed greens
• mix it with a condiment like honey mustard to give it an extra kick
• add in soups or chilis
• mix with lemonade or orange juice
• mix with hot water and extra honey to make a warming tea
• anything you think would be yummy

If you have made your own Fire Cider/Master Tonic/Flu Shot recipe please share it in the comments below!

Other References
February 2nd, is World Fire Cider Day!
Free Fire Cider
Tradition Not Trademark
Petition to sign
Rosemary Gladstar has a book out now: Fire Cider!: 101 Zesty Recipes for Health-Boosting Remedies Made with Apple Cider Vinegar
Herbal Roots Zine: Kids Can Make Fire Cider Too!: has a free printable label, card, and 14 page fire cider e-book
Kiva's Gila Harvest Cider: a variation for sensitive stomachs

Rosemary Gladstar making her version of Fire Cider...

You can find Rosemary Gladstar's version along with so many of her other awesome herbal recipes in her book Rosemary Gladstar's Medicinal Herbs...

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: The medical information provided on this blog is, at best, of a general nature and cannot substitute for the advice of a medical professional (for instance, a qualified doctor/physician, nurse, pharmacist/chemist, and so on). I am not a medical professional, just a mom with a opinion. Even if a statement made about the natural remedy is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms. I am only suggesting that you should try it for yourself and see if helps you. People are all different and outcomes could vary drastically. I am not selling my Fire Cider, I am simply making my recipe available for free to all those who read this post and want to make it themselves.

Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha Culinary Grade Green Tea Powder Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. We received this product free from Kiss Me Organics to facilitate this review. Affiliate links may be in this post. Thank you for supporting this blog.

Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha is a wonderful culinary grade green tea powder that can be mixed into lattes, smoothies, baking, and so much more! *It is a great natural energy booster, focus and memory enhancer, calorie burner, and is an antioxidant that promotes health and longevity. The recommended daily serving is 1/2-1 tsp and comes in a 4 oz (113g) bag that is resealable with a zipper top. This nutrient rich Matcha is free from chemicals and preservatives, the only ingredient is 100% pure Organic Matcha.

*HEALTH AND BEAUTY BENEFITS

• ALL DAY ENERGY WITH INCREASED FOCUS: Matcha provides 4 to 6 hours of mild steady slow release of energy as it acts as both a stimulant and a relaxant. This is ideal for focusing on whatever the day throws your way.
• METABOLISM BOOST: Consuming matcha green tea can increase thermogenesis (the body's own rate of burning calories) from a normal 8%-10% of daily energy expenditure, to between 35% and 43% of daily energy expenditure.
• IMPROVED SKIN HEALTH: Scientists have discovered that Matcha Green Tea helps protect the skin from harmful UV rays, while improving blood flow and oxygen levels lifting the overall quality of the skin.
• 137x THE ANTIOXIDANTS OF BREWED GREEN TEA: USDA Organic Matcha Green Tea can only be used in a powdered form because, unlike brewed green tea, it contains the entire tea leaf which dramatically increases the nutritional content. Antioxidants are essential as you age to boost your body's natural defenses against oxidation. Researchers have found that a high level of dietary antioxidants can prevent many age-related diseases.

The Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha has a wonderful grassy flavor that is not that sweet on its own. This product is best used mixed with other things, not as a stand alone tea. I love the flavor in all kinds of things. If you go searching Pinterest or Google search you will see there are a large number of ways to incorporate this product in your cooking and preparation of food and drink.

The Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha also comes with a downloadable and printable 70 page Organic Matcha Recipe Guide from Kiss Me Organics that is emailed to you upon purchase. This recipe booklet has 50+ recipes to get your creative juices flowing. I made up the following recipes of my own with the use of the Matcha and inspiration of the recipe booklet.

Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha Crystallized Greek Yogurt

Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha Crystallized Greek Yogurt

Ingredients 

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 heaping tsp Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha
• 2 tsp Sugar In The Raw

Instructions

1. Mix All ingredients together, first mixing the yogurt and Matcha then sprinkling in the Sugar In The Raw crystals. 
2. Enjoy!

Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha Coconut Milk Chai Latte

Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha Coconut Milk Chai Latte
This is awesome for those following a Paleo and dairy free diet.

Ingredients

• 1 Chai tea bag
• 1 cup boiling water
• Honey, maple syrup, or your sweetener of choice. To taste.
• 1 heaping tsp Kiss Me Organics Organic Matcha 
• 1/2-3/4 cup coconut milk

Instructions

1. Pour the hot water over the tea bag and steep for 4-6 minutes in a large mug. 
2. Remove the tea bag from the mug and stir in the Matcha.
3. Add sweetener to taste.
4. While your tea is steeping, heat your coconut milk in a small saucepan until it just begins to steam.
5. Once the coconut milk is warm, use a milk frother, hand blender, or immersion/stick blender to froth the milk. 
6. Once the coconut milk is frothed, slowly pour it over the tea.
7. Enjoy!

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DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review. *"These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseases." This post contains affiliate links which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and make a purchase.

Teach Your Child Herbs With Herb Fairies!

Herb Fairies is a magical tale of plants and their remedies as told by wonderful storytelling and fairies that look like the plant they are named after. These 13 interactive e-book stories were written by Kimberly Gallagher, the creator of Wildcraft! An Herbal Adventure Board Game. These help young and old alike learn herbs in a fun way. I love to use these in homeschooling! Both my sons and daughters love these.

Kimberly's husband, John of LearningHerbs.com will be releasing some really cool FREE recipes, coloring sheets, posters, activities and information packs along with information about how you can join the Herb Fairies book club along the way. So, make sure to sign up so you won't miss any of the fun!

Sign up here at HerbFairies.com to learn more and get instant access to the FREE stuff :)

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You can download the new Herb Fairies Cookbook and make some recipes and remedies like Dandelion Flower Cookies, Candied Violets, Lemon Balm Popsicles, Chickweed Grilled Cheese, Chocolate Elderberry Syrup, Pine Tea, and many more! There are 13 recipes total in the cookbook that use the plants from the Herb Fairies books.

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Also, I received a really neat kids activity pack free to give to my readers that goes right along with the Herb Fairies. This activity pack introduces you to Stellaria, the Chickweed fairy and gives you information on chickweed, a coloring sheet as well as a yummy recipe to use the herb in. Go ahead and download it and share it with your kids, Grandkids, or Godkids.

Activity Pack PDF

(right click to download)

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Sign up now to get instant access to more free downloads and information on how you can join the Herb Fairies Book Club!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I wrote this blog post because I thought you might be interested in knowing this information and taking part of this deal. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post. Affiliate links can be found in this post. Thank you for your support of this blog!

A Year with Six Sisters' Stuff: 52 Menu Plans, Recipes and Ideas to Bring Families Together Book Review and Giveaway

We received this product free from Shadow Mountain to facilitate this review, an opportunity to host a giveaway and participate in the blog tour.

One of my favorite blogs to read is the Six Sisters' Stuff blog. This blog was created by 6 biological sisters: Camille, Kristen, Elyse, Stephanie, Lauren, and Kendra that wanted to stay in touch and share recipes, crafts, projects and neat ideas with each other while apart. Growing up with just sisters and no brothers in my family I can relate with this blog a lot...even though I only have 2 younger sisters. These sisters also share another similarity with me...they are all of the LDS/Mormon faith. Their blog is also in the "Why Are YOUR Favorite Bloggers Mormon?" list of blogs that I frequently visit.

Six Sisters' Stuff is back with seconds with their newest cookbook, A Year with Six Sisters' Stuff. So many mouthwatering meal and recipe choices! It is jam packed with over 150 new recipes broken into 52 menu plans to share with family and friends. It has easy to follow instructions and every recipe is accompanied by gorgeous full color photos. Each meal has a entree, side dish and dessert. You can also take those meals and mix and match other recipes from the book to make different meal offerings. The ingredients that the Six Sisters use are usually found in the home making the meals even easier to throw together at the last minute. Making three-course meals couldn't be more simple and stress-free when following the Six Sisters. Also tucked in throughout are tips, crafts, helpful checklists, traditions, ideas and activities; all easily found by table of contents and index.

My favorite meals from this cookbook have to be the slow cooker ones. I love my Crock Pot! The Honey-Lime Chicken Enchiladas sound so good too! I really would love to try the Homemade Bread Bowls because I love soup. I am also on a fruit kick so the Ambrosia Fruit Salad, Berry Cheesecake Pudding and Mandarin Orange Pretzel Salad look absolutely delicious. These and so many other recipes grace the pages of the A Year with Six Sisters' Stuff Cookbook.

I love that this cookbook makes it easier on the cook to make healthy and homemade three course meals for their family. Dinnertime especially is supposed to be family time. So gather around the table with your family and partake in the delicious food that Six Sisters' Stuff has in store for you.

BUY IT
You can purchase the Six Sisters' Stuff book at DeseretBook.com for $21.99 List Price $18.69 Sale Price (at posting date).

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Prize: 10 winners will receive a copy of A Year with Six Sisters' Stuff Cookbook. This giveaway is the same giveaway hosted on my blog and all the blogs that are participating in the blog tour.

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DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received products for free to facilitate my review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.