Karina's Garden of Grace

MARS CANDY - FREE CHOCOLATE FRIDAY!

2009-08-13T11:17:00.001-05:00

Have you gotten your FREE chocolate yet? I did! Enjoyed it too! Just click here every Friday through September to get your FREE chocolate coupon!

Thanks Mars!!!

Happy Snacking!

Karina

COUPONS, DEALS, FREEBIES

2009-08-12T16:47:00.004-05:00

Hi Readership:

I wanted to share with you today some wonderful coupons, deals and freebies that I have found today:

It is never too late to start taking vitamins and/or supplements!

VITAMIN WORLD:

Limited Time Only - Buy 1 Get 1 Free! Cholest Solutions, 120 Softgels. Only $33.99. Expires: 8.031.09

Buy 1 Get 1 Free or Buy 1 Get 1 50% off on selected items at Vitamin World! Shop BOGO Deals Now!

INTERNET SECURITY:

Comodo Internet Security Pro protects PCs using the innovation of Default Deny Protection. This means, unauthorized or suspicious software does not install until the user grants permission.Comodo Internet Security Pro features exclusive access to a "safe list" of over 2 million files known to be safe for computers, and features informative and simple user alerts for files not on this list.Comodo Internet Security Pro goes beyond a simple antivirus to make sure a PC is protected on all fronts. Also included: live, 24-7 remote support from a trained tech expert.
Industry Awards
· Editor's Choice: PC Magazine
· Top 10 Free Security Software: ComputerWorld
· 5 stars: CNET Download.com

Follow these links:
Try Comodo Internet Security Pro for 30 Days, FREE

Buy Comodo Internet Security Pro Now and get 1 month FREE

Try 30-day FREE trial of Comodo Internet Security Pro Today

Comodo Internet Security offers 360° protection against internal and external threats

Comodo Internet Security protects against all of today's sophisticated malware threats

Comodo Internet Security Pro introduces total protection for your Computer

************************************

More to come!

Happy Dealing ~ Karina

2009-08-12T16:42:00.001-05:00

Get Tasty Milk Chocolate products at Chocolate.com.

GO GREEN - COUPONS!

2009-08-11T17:19:00.003-05:00

With the invention of online coupon printers you can save yourself time searching through the newspaper clipping out the coupons you want. In effect, this is also a way to help out the environment and go green. You are only using paper to print out the coupons you will actually use. SIMPLY CLICK THE COUPON BAR (located here on my blog) to preview some of the great coupons:

With the invention of online coupon printers you can save yourself time searching through the newspaper clipping out the coupons you want. In effect, this is also a way to help out the environment and go green. You are only using paper to print out the coupons you will actually use. Scroll through on the banner above and use the “quick print” button to print out the great coupons recently added to Coupons.com. Below are just some of the offers you will find:

~ $1.00 off Land O Lakes (MY FAVORITE!!!)
~ $1.00 off Alpine Valley
~ Save $1.50 on Bayer Aspirin
~ Save $0.75 on Two Betty Crocker
~ Save $1.00 on Two Big G Cereals

And much, much more!
Happy Printing

GIVE WILDLIFE A BRAKE FREEBIE!

2009-08-08T20:18:00.001-05:00

Here's a peek: Give Wildlife a Break! (Freebie)" Free bumper sticker from the Human Society.

http://www.hsus.org/wildlife/issues_facing_wildlife/wildlife_crossings_wild_animals_and_roads/order_your_free_give_wildlife_a_brake_bumper_sticker.html

$25 COURTESY OF KRAFT FOODS!

2009-08-08T20:15:00.001-05:00

Just found this site and had to pass it along to my readers:

http://www.kraftfoods.com/SiteCollectionImages/ImageRepository/BTS/ShoppingList.pdf

Enjoy the freebie!

JACK IN THE BOX FREEBIES COUPON

2009-08-06T23:36:00.002-05:00

Jack in the Box Inc., based in San Diego, is a restaurant company that operates and franchises restaurants, one of the nation's largest hamburger chains, with more than 2,170 restaurants in 18 states.

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR COUPONS:

http://coupon.jackinthebox.com/coupon/two-free-tacos_20090811.php

KARINA'S DAILY RECIPE

2009-08-04T04:46:00.003-05:00

Philadelphia Cheesesteaks

from Karina's Kitchen

What a YUMMY anytime Dish and Easy and 1-2-3. My kinda cookin'.

Juicy steak, peppers, onions and a creamy cheese sauce, all served up on a roll...it just doesn't get any better than this!

Prep Time: 10 min. Cook Time: 10 min.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced (about 1 cup)
1 large red or green pepper, thinly sliced (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 cup sliced mushrooms
4 frozen sandwich steaks (about 2 ounces each)
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup
4 (8-inch) long hard rolls, split

Directions:
Heat the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the onion, pepper and mushrooms and cook until the vegetables are tender.

Remove the vegetables from the skillet.

Add the steaks to the skillet. Cook and stir until they're cooked through.

Spoon the soup into a microwavable bowl. Cover and microwave on HIGH for 1 1/2 minutes or until it's hot. Stir and spread each roll with 2 tablespoons soup.

Divide the steaks and vegetables among the rolls and top with the remaining soup.

Karina's Kitchen Klip: I used prepared garlic bread instead of the rolls in this recipe. Delicious!

Serves 4.

Can also serve with a side of french fries or potato chips and a crisp green salad.

Happy Eating!

2009-08-03T15:26:00.002-05:00

All 2009 Entertainment books are only $9.99, through August 10, 2009! US Only. Click here to order now~

LIVE THE AMERICAN DREAM WITH SMC HOME BUSINESS

2009-08-03T15:16:00.005-05:00

SMC - As seen on TV with Tom Bosley. Sign up today for your free success guide.We've helped thousands start their own business from home. Stop letting your hardwork put money into someone else's pocket, sign up today for your FREE Success Guide.

CURVES FOR WOMEN

2009-08-03T15:09:00.002-05:00

Join Curves Now and Get 50% OFF & 30 DAYS ON US!

NEW LAW MAKES PARENTS LIABLE FOR KIDS' DEBT

2009-08-03T04:52:00.002-05:00

I found this email very interesting...Comes from my friend Mary @ Debt-Proof Living Online

New Law Makes Parents Liable for Kids’ Debts

Parents of semi-adult children, listen up. Under new laws aimed at protecting college students from debt, you could get stuck with your kids’ credit card bills.By “kids,” I mean your offspring who have reached the age of majority, which allows them to serve in the military, to vote and to sign for student loans, but have not yet turned 21.The Credit CARD Act of 2009 forbids credit card companies to hand out applications to any college student for the asking. The law also prevents the popular practice of giving free gifts to college students who sign up for credit cards. Under the new law, to get a credit card, students either must prove they have an independent source of income to repay their debt, or have a parent cosign.Knowing me the way that you do, you may be surprised to learn that I am not jumping for joy over this provision in the CARD Act. In fact, I am somewhat ambivalent. On the one hand, I abhor the rampant handing out of credit to unemployed young people with the intent of hooking them into revolving credit card balances for life. On the other hand, I find it sad that it took the government to fill a void created by the lack of effective parenting and basic personal finance education.Be that as it may, what’s done is done. The CARD Act of 2009 becomes effective in early 2010, at which time you may find yourself as a cosigner, agreeing to be fully responsible for all the debt incurred. All of it. Don’t forget that any late payments will be reported to your credit file.May I make a recommendation? Do not cosign. One good thing about this new law is that it gives parents power. I know that many of you are reading this wishing you’d had that kind of power in years past, when your student was signing up for free pizza, t-shirts and flashlights by filling out a credit card application. There’s nothing quite so pathetic as a newly minted graduate who comes out of school carrying a load of student and credit card debt.What’s your alternative as a parent? Teach your kids the ins and outs of living a cash lifestyle. Get out the envelopes to teach the simplest of all budgeting systems. Introduce the concept of money orders when the requirement arises to send money through the mail.Don’t get suckered into cosigning in an effort to help your child build credit. Students don’t need big credit scores to get a job or move into a dorm. What they need is a clean credit file that shows an absence of irresponsibility.There will be plenty of time in the future for your Johnny or Suzi to build credit, when they’re over 21.If you have questions or comments about this new credit card law and its implications, please join the conversation at my blog, Money Rules, Debt Stinks!If you liked this article by Mary Hunt, you'll find lots more in the Everyday Cheapskate Archives, or subscribe to receive Everyday Cheapskate in your email inbox every weekday.

SIMPLE SOULTIONS for a REAL SIMPLE LIFE!

2009-08-02T16:48:00.004-05:00

Karina's Simple Solutions for a REAL SIMPLE LIFE Tip:
NEW USES FOR OLD THINGS

OLD THING: CAR WAX

NEW USE: Grease for your Garden Shears!

Instructions:

Rub a little past on the hinge of a pair of clippers so they don't get jammed.

REWARD is: Cleaner cuts with less elbow grease!

No more soggy bottoms!

Happy Recycling!

DOUBLE-DUTY HOUSEHOLD ITEMS for a SIMPLE LIFE

2009-08-01T08:21:00.006-05:00

Welcome to Karina's Simple Solutions for Everyday Life!

NEW USES FOR OLD THINGS

Old Thing: Mellon Baller

New Use: De-Seeder

The original purpose of the Mellon Baller was to carve melons (such as cantaloupes, honey dew melons, etc.) .

Karina's New Use: Scooping out of tomato seeds. This tiny little tool is the perfect size and shape for removing the squishy-seedie part.

REWARD: A better bruschetta.

Enjoy and Happy Recycling!

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS for A REAL SIMPLE LIFE!

2009-07-31T18:34:00.003-05:00

Karina's Simple Solutions for a REAL SIMPLE LIFE Tip:

NEW USES FOR OLD THINGS

OLD THING: A MUFFIN TIN

NEW USE: Cooling Rack

When I cool any kind of baked goods, such as: casseroles, cookie sheet, pies, cakes and Brownies, I use my muffin tin. Simply turn the muffin tip upside down and rest your piping-hot treats top of it!

I have found that the space between the muffin molds lets the cool air flow freely and your 'treats' will cool quicker!

REWARD is: No more soggy bottoms!

Enjoy and Happy Cooking,

Karina

COOKING WITH HERBS TIP!

2009-07-29T18:52:00.002-05:00

Do you really know how to cook with herbs? I didn't! I want to share a wonderful tip with you that I have learned.

Fresh herbs are always better, but Dried Herbs are just as good! Usually dried herbs are almost always what I have in my pantry!

Here's the Tip:

For instance, you are making Spaghetti sauce, when you are browning your meat you will want to take your herbs (i.e., Italian Seasoning, Basil, etc.) and add 1/2 of them. If using fresh herbs just chop finely and add. All the aroma and seasoning will seep out as you are chopping. ***If using dried herbs instead of just dumping the seasoning in from the bottle (like I used to do), you will want to pour the seasoning (remember 1/2 of the total amount you will use) into the palm of your hand and gently rub your palms together before adding to your sauce. THIS IS AN IMPORTANT STEP...because it releases the oils and aromas from the dried herbs. **** Now when your meat is browned and you are adding your sauce go ahead and add the remaining seasonings as stated above.

I was amazed, but this really works.

Enjoy and ~

Happy Cooking!

Karina

VISTA PRINT OFFER! WON'T LAST LONG

2009-07-29T16:06:00.001-05:00

ORDER YOUR SUPPLIES NOW!

GREAT DEALS FOR SCHOOL

SNEAK PEEK - CULVERS FLAVORS FOR AUGUST

2009-07-29T14:03:00.006-05:00

CULVER'S FLAVORS OF THE MONTH - AUGUST

There's a new kind of deliciousness happening at Culver's every day. Come on in and let us dish up some of our irresistible Flavor of the Day just for you. Every flavor, including our always popular chocolate and vanilla, is made fresh throughout the day. It's happiness by the scoopful.

August Flavors

1 Chocolate Oreo Volcano

2 Caramel Cashew

3 Cheri Amour Amaretto

4 Cookie Dough Craving

5 Oreo Cheesecake

6 Caramel Buttercup

7 Andies Candies

8 Chocolate Covered Strawberry

9 Really Reese's

10 Cappuccino Almond Fudge

11 Bananas Foster

12 Red Raspberry

13 Cherry Pecan

14 Awesome Chocolate Almond

15 M & M Swirl

16 Turtle

17 Double Strawberry

18 Mint Explosion

19 Butter Pecan

20 Boston Cream

21 Snicker Swirl

22 German Chocolate Fudge

23 Toffee Pecan

24 Manager's Choice

25 Orange Creamsicle

26 Manager's Choice

27 Georgia Peach

28 Heath Chocolate Almond

29 Kit Kat Swirl

30 Chocolate Caramel Twist

31 Pumpkin Pecan

Don't forget to sign up at http://www.culvers.com/ for your FREE coupons. You can enjoy a FREE sundae on your birthday!

SEVEN (7) STEPS TO A SUCCESSFUL GARAGE SALE

2009-07-29T06:57:00.003-05:00

By: Karina Struven

Now that summer is here you might have some free time to use up. You an start by turning your "hidden treasures," into some money-making time -- by hosting a garage/yard sale. I know from experience, that a garage sale is a Fantastic way to purge your home from all of those "hidden treasures" -- as well as, make some extra needed cash. So come on, get up and start purging that house, clear out the closets and cash in on some of your "hidden treasures."

By following these short steps you an obtain garage sale success:

1. Pick a date that works best for you and where you live. I've noticed that in my neighborhood, Thursday is the best day. While Friday is slower. See if your neighborhood is hosting a multi-sale and if you want to join your neighbors, you might attract more traffic to your sale.
2. Sort and organize all of your "treasures." Even though this might be more time consuming, it is definitely worth it! Make sure that everything has all their parts and that everything is in working order. Be sure to wash old clothes and toys -- display them easily for people to browse through your selection. After all, nobody wants to purchase dirty-dusty items.
3. Price all merchandise. I did this by creating a price list very easily on my computer. After printing off the list, I then cut it into either rectangles and/or circle shapes and labeled every item with tape. Not only is this a neat, clean and pretty presentation; it saved me time having to repeat the prices to customers. REMEMBER: be reasonable on your pricing. If grouping items, make sure your price is clear -- (set of 4 for $5.00, etc.)
4. Advertise your Sale. If you are fortunate enough to live off of a busy highway and/or main artery in your town, that can save you tons of advertising money. But if you do not, by all means, utilize the garage sale advertisers in your area. The most avid garage sale shoppers do check the weekly ads, both in the paper and online. When using signs to advertise your sale, make sure they are marked appropriately and clearly. There is nothing worse than a confusing sign to a passerby. Mark your sign with the following: Time, Date, Location, Directions (an arrow), Hours and Specials.
5. Be Prepared! This is so important for your own piece of mind because on the day of the sale most likely you are going to have "early birds." Have your money ready and safely hidden. You should start with at least $5 in small coin; $15 in singles; and $10 in fives. Also make sure that you provide used grocery store bags so that your eager shoppers can carry away their new found treasures. This is also a great way to recycle those unwanted bags.
6. At the end of the day! Hopefully you have had a successful day and now it is time to call it quits, but you probably have leftover items. Now what? Box them up right away! Do not bring them back into your house. Either keep them right in your garage for another quick sale and/or donate all of these "leftover treasures" to a local charity, shelter, and/or thrift store. REMEMBER: "One man's junk is another man's treasure."
7. CHA-CHING! Count your new made moolah and head to the bank!

Happy Selling,
Karina Struven

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karina_Struven

CHECK OUT MY FEATURED ARTICLES AT:

2009-07-29T06:52:00.002-05:00

HOMEMADE DOG TREATS

2009-07-28T18:29:00.001-05:00

I definitely will be trying this one!

HOMEMADE DOG TREATS!

Tired of the expense of dog biscuits, but still want to treat your "babies"? I make a variety of drop biscuits using flour, meat broth of some kind, a little corn meal, an egg and enough milk to make it "droppable" onto a greased cookie sheet. Sometimes I use ketchup and powdered parmesan- those are favorites! I drop them by spoonful, not too big, and bake them at about 300 degrees until crunchy (turning them over helps, and then leave them in the oven after you turn it off for additional crunch.) They turn out differently every time, but my dogs go crazy when they hear the oven timer go off! ~ By Lee Ann from SC

Thanks Lee Ann for this great tip on saving money

GUILTLESS POTATO SALAD

2009-07-28T18:24:00.003-05:00

Guiltless Potato Salad
1 1/2 lb small red potatoes, halved

3 carrots, thinly sliced

2 ribs celery, finely chopped

2 Granny Smith apples with skin, cored and finely chopped

1/2 sm onion, sliced

1/2 cup light mayonnaise

1/2 cup fat-free plain yogurt

1/4 cup fat-free lemon yogurt

1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill

1 Tbsp finely chopped parsley

1 Tbsp Dijon mustard

1/4 tsp salt

Place potatoes in a large saucepan with enough water to cover. Cook over medium heat 10 minutes. Add carrots and cook 8 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Allow to cool.

In a large serving bowl, combine celery, apples, onion, mayonnaise, plain yogurt, lemon yogurt, dill, parsley, mustard, and salt. Add potato mixture and stir gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate 2 hours before serving.

Makes 8 servings

Per serving: 121 calories, 3 g protein, 18 g carbohydrate, 5 g fat, 5 mg cholesterol, 5 g fiber, 270 mg sodium

Yummy!

DINNER TOOL - MENU PLANNER

2009-07-28T18:18:00.003-05:00

FAMOUS QUESTION ~ WHAT'S FOR DINNER???

SOMETIMES DON'T YOU JUST DREAD THAT QUESTION! I know I do after a long hard day of getting our youngest ready for Tonsil surgery!

Where here is my saving grace ~ for menu planning! I was just surfing and found this really awesome website that you have to check out.

Welcome To Dinner Tool
After this brief registration, you can
Store and retrieve favorite recipes, meals, meal plans and shopping lists
Comment on recipes and meals
Rate recipes and meals

http://www.dinnertool.com/account.php?v=register

ULTRA FOODS GROCERY STORE

2009-07-28T17:57:00.003-05:00

We always here about Strack and VanTil savings; CVS; Walgreens and more! BUT, I have found ULTRA FOODS in Highland, Indiana a wonderful savings place. Did you know that Ultra Foods is the overstocked budget store of Strack and VanTill? I just found that one out.

Check it out for yourself.

Here is their website:

http://www.ultra-foods.com/

Happy Shopping~

CHICKEN and PINEAPPLE PINWHEEL

2009-07-28T17:32:00.005-05:00

Ingredients:

2 large can chicken salad
Mayonnaise
1/4 c. Pineapple tidbits (or to your liking)
1 Cup of Shredded Monterrey Jack Cheese
Fresh Parsley
2 Cans of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls

Combine:
In a mixing bowl the 2 Cans of Chicken with Mayo until moistened. Then add your pineapple, cheese and fresh parsley and stir! Set this mixture to the side while you open the crescent cans.

Take a cookie sheet and spray with PAM.....Then take the crescent dough and form 2 crescents together into a large rectangle.
Layer the chicken mixture (about 1-1/2 tbsp.) in the center of your rectangle.
Then fold the 4 sides (each corner) to the center the of the mixture and seal. It will kind-of-look-like a pinwheel, hence the name.
Bake @ 375 degrees for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown!
Serving size: about 8 chicken pinwheels.

Delicious and Enjoy!

COME CHAT WITH US!

2009-07-28T17:19:00.007-05:00

I have just found the coolest blog gaget, theblogfrog. While Facebook and Twitter have been known to be great avenues for generating connection, I find that sometimes there are some people I just didn't care for in high school, nor they did me and you are almost obligated to rekindle past gone friendships.

I find after all my reading, that nowadays Moms are online more than any other generation before. This is definitely the new age of 'technology' and connecting through blogs. Most of us are sooooo busy with our family life that our only outlet is blogging and keeping posted with people any time of day that way.

I know myself I am longing for deeper connections, with likeminded frugalistas! Therefore, I have decided to make a community and I can do that easily with theblogfrog.

So come and bring with you ideas, bargains, deals, news and more with you to share with all of us!

Look for my Community Link on the lefthand side of this blog and hop on the to the pond with me!

I am hoping that Karina's Garden of Grace forum will be a place where you may sit and come and share your hearts desires, deals and stories!

Hop On Over Now and Join the Community!

JUDGMENT VERSUS GRACE ~ Isaiah 26:9-10

2009-07-27T04:35:00.006-05:00

TITLE: JUDGMENT VERSUS GRACE

Key Verse(s): Isaiah 26:9-10

The Lord continually offers us Grace, but at times we still need his Judgment. That may sound contradictory, but often times we take God's Grace for granted. Hardship and discipline catch our attention and cause us to change our sinful ways and grow in righteousness. Hebrews 12:11 explains: "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." Judgment requires discipline and discipline creates righteousness. Viewed this way, judgment can be seen as a type of Grace! A Grace that is Greater than all our Sin!

By His Grace,

Karina

This season's back-to-school trend: Frugality

2009-07-25T23:32:00.002-05:00

This season's back-to-school trend: Frugality

Shared via AddThis

BACK TO SCHOOL ~ FOR TEACHERS

2009-07-25T23:25:00.000-05:00

Click here to shop at Teacher Created Resources

2009-07-25T23:18:00.002-05:00

HERE ARE SOME AWESOME WEBSITES I HAVE FOUND TONIGHT ~ OFFERING GREAT DEALS IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO START A WEBSITE, WEBSTORE, AND/OR PURCHASE A DOMAIN NAME FOR A REASONABLE PRICE.....

Click to be taken to the websites:

Ice Cream Cookiewiches: Recipes - NESTLÉ® Meals.com

2009-07-25T11:48:00.001-05:00

"Ice Cream Cookiewiches"

You will love the convenience of making this delicious ice cream treat!

Preparation Time: 15 mins
Cooking Time: 10 mins
Cooling Time: 1 hr freezing

Servings: 20 sandwiches
1 pkg. (16.5 oz.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Refrigerated Mini Chocolate Chip Cookie Bar Dough or NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Refrigerated Mini Brownie Bites Bar Dough *
1 1/2 to 2 cups Vanilla, Chocolate Chip Mint or any other flavor DREYER’S® or EDY’S® SLOW CHURNED™ Light Ice Cream, slightly softened

PREPARE cookies according to package directions. Cool on baking sheets for 1 minute; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

PLACE 1 tablespoon ice cream on flat side of 1 cookie; top with flat side of second cookie to make a sandwich. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap or place in freezeable container. Repeat with remaining cookies and ice cream. Freeze for at least 1 hour before serving. Let stand at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.

* VARIATION: Make a platter of these sandwiches by baking up a few packages of our refrigerated Mini Cookie Bar Doughs and use a variety of DREYER’S or EDY’S SLOW CHURNED Light Ice Cream products.

NUTRITION FACTS:
Calories: 120 Calories from Fat: 50 Total Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g Cholesterol: 15 mg Sodium: 95 mg
Carbohydrates: 16 g Dietary Fiber: 0 g Sugars: 10 g
Protein: 1 g"

MINI BROWNIE ICE CREAM SANDWICHES

2009-07-25T11:47:00.002-05:00

MINI BROWNIE ICE CREAM SANDWICHES

Vanilla ice cream blended with fresh mint and sandwiched between two chocolate mini brownie bites...who can resist? This delicious treat!

Preparation Time: 15 mins

Cooking Time: Cooling Time: 1 hr freezing

Servings: 20

1 package (16 ounces) NESTLÉ TOLL HOUSE Refrigerated Mini Brownie Bites Bar Dough, prepared according to package directions 1 1/4 cups Vanilla BREYER'S or EDY'S SLOW CHURNED Light Ice Cream, softened 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint.

STIR together ice cream and mint in large bowl; freeze for 1 hour or until almost firm.

TO ASSEMBLE: Sandwich 1 tablespoon prepared ice cream between 2 brownie bites; serve immediately. NOTE: If ice cream is frozen for longer than 1 hour, let soften slightly before assembling sandwiches. Prepared sandwiches can be wrapped tightly and stored frozen for up to one week.

Yummy! Enjoy!

SERIOUSLY FREE STUFF

2009-07-24T21:13:00.001-05:00

It is FRIDAY and time to get your FREE Samples and more! Click the link above and claim your FREEBIES!

Happy Saving,

Karina's Garden of Grace

BACK TO SCHOOL LINKS

2009-07-24T21:03:00.004-05:00

Here are a few links that I have found today while surfing! Great to use whether your homeschooling, public schooling, and/or private schooling!

LINKS ARE:

http://www.mediaangels.com/home/free-downloads

http://www.homeschoolfreebie.wholesomechildhood.com/

http://www.schoolexpress.com/

http://www.choosyhomeschooler.com/

http://www.usedhomeschoolbooks.com/

http://www.homefires.com/free.asp

Happy Schooling!

Karina' s Garden of Grace

BLUEBERRY MUFFIN RECIPE

2009-07-24T20:55:00.003-05:00

Since it is Still National Blueberry Month ~ Here is another great Blueberry Muffin Recipe:

BATTER INGREDIENTS:
1 1/2 c all-purpose flour

3/4 c white sugar
1/2 tsp salt

2 tsp baking powder

1/3 c vegetable oil

1 egg

1/3 c milk

1 c fresh blueberries

TOPPING INGREDIENTS:

1/2 c sugar

1/3 c all-purpose flour

1/4 c butter, cubed, softened but not melted

1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Delicious! Enjoy!

Happy Baking,

Karina's Garden of Grace

OVER 2,000 FREE PRODUCTS

2009-07-24T20:26:00.002-05:00

While surfing the web today I found a wonderful site to share with you!

Just click the link below and find out for yourself!

Happy Saving,

Karina's Garden of Grace

Dark Blue Affiliate Network

2009-07-24T19:32:00.000-05:00

Dark Blue Affiliate Network: "

"

CVS Coupon Booklets Coming Soon

2009-07-24T19:12:00.002-05:00

As of August 1, you should be able to snag a coupon booklet from your CVS Pharmacy full of some great coupons. Simply ask about the Autorefill program at the pharmacy counter and they should give it to you. It contains the following coupons:

(two) $4 off $20 purchase (yay!)
$4 off $20 Diet or Nutrition products
$4 off $20 Facial Skin products
$2 off $10 Vitamin purchase
$2 off $10 Allergy products
$2 off $10 Oral Care products
$3 off $12 Eye Care products

The word is that some people have already found this booklet near the pharmacy area. I recommend grabbing several if you can–or at least one from each CVS you shop at!

Happy Shopping,

Karina's Garden of Grace

2009-07-21T16:37:00.008-05:00

___________________

Don't throw away those Glass Jars!

You know the glass jars like photoed above? Don't throw them out.....

When done using I just soak them ~ in order to get the label off ~ and use them for drinking glasses for our family! I have also used them in canning my own homemade tomato sauce, by keeping the lid that goes to each jar.

They work great and I haven't bought drinking glasses in over 2 years!

Hope you enjoyed this tip!

Happy Recycling,

KARINA'S DAILY TIP

2009-07-21T15:54:00.005-05:00

Welcome to Karina's Daily Tip:

"Re-use those plastic food containers!"
One thing I do not enjoy doing is opening up those shredded cheese bags and crouton bags and never being able to reseal them! (only cause the kids rip um open)!
Know what I mean :-0)

So, I finally got smart! I have started to keep my Kraft grated parmesan cheese ~plastic containers with the green snap lid. Airtight I might add!

I washed them out, and now I have containers to hold my cheese, croutons, sliced almonds, bacon bits, and much more! At mealtime, it is easy as 1-2-3 to set them on the table...especially on taco and/or salad night."

Happy Recylcing!

Karina's Garden of Grace

I STAND IN AWE OF YOU JESUS!

2009-07-21T04:27:00.014-05:00

Today my devotion is from Ecclesiates 5!

"I Stand in Awe of God"

Verse 1: Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.
Verse 2: Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.
Verse 3: As a dream comes when there are many cares, so the speech of a fool when there are many words.
Verse 4: When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow.
Verse 5: It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it.
Verse 6: Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, "My vow was a mistake." Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands?
Verse 7: Much dreaming and many words are meaningless.

Therefore stand in awe of God ~ My Jesus!

Graciously Yours,
Karina's Garden of Grace

SWAGBUCKS ~ JOIN NOW!

2009-07-19T14:08:00.004-05:00

I KNOW I have talked about this before ~ but, it is worth repeating.....I took the chance and joined SWAGBUCKS and cannot believe how many bucks I have received and are ready to cash in on!

Honestly, I was skeptical when I read a post on my girlfriend's blog (mummy deals), but my curiosity got the best of me and I have earned a $25 gift card in 2 weeks of just searching....haven't done anythin' different.

I suggest giving it a try for yourself......I would appreciate it if you join under my code so that I can earn a buck referral.....Click here. Thanks!

Happy Swagging!

Karina's Garden of Grace

FREE CHOCOLATE FRIDAY!

2009-07-19T14:05:00.001-05:00

FREE CHOCOLATE FRIDAY!

"This promo has been going on a couple of weeks. A few days ago I got my first coupon for free chocolate. What could be better??

Every Friday from now through September ~ starting at 9:00 a.m. ET ~ the first 500,000 people to sign up here will get a voucher for your favorite Mars product. Products include: M&M, Snickers, Twix, Dove, 3 Musketeers or Milky Way. There is a limit of 4 per household during the promo."

DAILY QUOTE

2009-07-13T15:16:00.001-05:00

DAILY QUOTE:

"A weed is a plant that has mastered every survival skill except for learning how to grow in rows."

SEARCH THE INTERNET

2009-07-12T17:04:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

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When searching the web, the best way to win Swag Bucks (and the only method we endorse) is to use the engine for genuine search and discovery. Our technology is designed to award users who search naturally — simply utilize our engine the way you would with other search providers.
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Happy Surfing Everyone!

Karina's Garden of Grace

EARN WITH SWAGBUCKS!

2009-07-12T10:03:00.001-05:00

NEW HOME CONSIGNMENT SHOP - Northwest Indiana

2009-07-12T08:26:00.004-05:00

Dear Readers,

NEW HOME CONSIGNMENT SHOP ~ Cedar Lake, Indiana

There is a new Home Consignment store that just opened up in Cedar Lake, Indiana ~~ off of Rte. 41 (Indianapolis/Wicker Avenue). It is called...."Not Too Shabby."

A girlfriend of mine checked it out already and says "it's a darling little shop with mostly second-hand, some new home decor. There is some jewelry, some furniture, and a small amount of clothing as well. It's a great shop for little gifts or if you feel like you need a decorating "fix" but don't want to spend too much...it's the perfect place!"

Days Open: Wed, Thurs., Fri., and Sat.
Hours: Unknown (call ahead of time)!

Here is the Location Information:
Not Too Shabby
Home Decor, Furniture & More
13321 Wicker Ave.
Cedar Lake, IN
219.374.5114

Happy Hunting,
Karina's Garden of Grace

SEVEN STEPS TO A SUCCESSFUL GARAGE SALE

2009-07-11T13:41:00.008-05:00

By: Karina Struven

Now that summer is here you might have some free time to use up. You can start by turning your "hidden treasures," into some money-making time -- by hosting a garage/yard sale. I know from experience, that a garage sale is a Fantastic way to purge your home from all of those "hidden treasures" -- as well as, make some extra needed cash. So come on, get up and start purging that house, clear out the closets and cash in on some of your "hidden treasures."

By following these short steps you can obtain garage sale success:

Pick a date that works best for you and where you live. I've noticed that in my neighborhood, Thursday is the best day. While Friday is slower. See if your neighborhood is hosting a multi-sale and if you want to join your neighbors, you might attract more traffic to your sale.
Sort and organize all of your "treasures." Even though this might be more time consuming, it is definitely worth it! Make sure that everything has all their parts and that everything is in working order. Be sure to wash old clothes and toys -- display them easily for people to browse through your selection. After all, nobody wants to purchase dirty-dusty items.
Price all merchandise. I did this by creating a price list very easily on my computer. After printing off the list, I then cut it into either rectangles and/or circle shapes and labeled every item with tape. Not only is this a neat, clean and pretty presentation; it saved me time having to repeat the prices to customers. REMEMBER: be reasonable on your pricing. If grouping items, make sure your price is clear -- (set of 4 for $5.00, etc.)
Advertise your Sale. If you are fortunate enough to live off of a busy highway and/or main artery in your town, that can save you tons of advertising money. But if you do not, by all means, utilize the garage sale advertisers in your area. The most avid garage sale shoppers do check the weekly ads, both in the paper and online. When using signs to advertise your sale, make sure they are marked appropriately and clearly. There is nothing worse than a confusing sign to a passerby. Mark your sign with the following: Time, Date, Location, Directions (an arrow), Hours and Specials.
Be Prepared! This is so important for your own piece of mind because on the day of the sale most likely you are going to have "early birds." Have your money ready and safely hidden. You should start with at least $5 in small coin; $15 in singles; and $10 in fives. Also make sure that you provide used grocery store bags so that your eager shoppers can carry away their new found treasures. This is also a great way to recycle those unwanted bags.
At the end of the day! Hopefully you have had a successful day and now it is time to call it quits, but you probably have leftover items. Now what? Box them up right away! Do not bring them back into your house. Keep these items right in your garage for another quick sale and/or donate all of your "leftover treasures" to a local charity, shelter, and/or thrift store. REMEMBER: "One man's junk is another man's treasure."
CHA-CHING! Count your new made moolah and head to the bank!

Happy Selling,

Karina Struven

(http:karinastruven.blogspot.com)

NATIONAL BLUEBERRY MUFFIN DAY ~ JULY 11, 2007

2009-07-11T12:20:00.001-05:00

LET'S us all celebrate MY FAVORITE MUFFIN....today is the National Blueberry Muffin Day!

Here is Grandma's Easy, Delicious Recipe for Blueberry Muffins:

Ingredients:
1/4 cup butter
2 eggs
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. sugar
2 c. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1-1/2 tsp. vanilla
One-half cup milk
2 c. fresh or frozen blueberries

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Grease and floor muffin pan (or use paper liners). Beat together butter, eggs, salt, and sugar.
Mix flour with baking powder and sift into first mixture, alternating with milk.
Blend in vanilla.
Add blueberries.
Pour into muffin pan and bake for 25 minutes!

Enjoy and Happy Baking!

Karina's Garden of Grace

A PSALM OF PRAISE

2009-07-05T10:09:00.000-05:00

A PSALM OF PRAISE FOR THIS WONDERFUL LORD'S DAY!

PSALM 100

1Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations."

A PRAYER OF CONTENTMENT!

2009-07-05T10:07:00.004-05:00

MY PRINCESS...

"I WANT YOU TO BE CONTENT"

You were given my peace when you let ME into your life. It "is" possible, MY Princess, to enjoy your life with a peaceful mind and a contented heart. YOU have so much to look forward to when you are settled in your Heavenly home with ME. But, for now you must remember that nothing you buy or collect will calm your spirit or soothe your soul like I can! You came into this world with nothing, and that is how you will leave it. Let ME do more than give YOU the good gifts that this life has to offer. I will give you a place of peace, decorated with the light and filled with memories that will be more cherished more than anything this world has to offer. So let me be your treasure, and I will give you a rich life that will become more beautiful than money can buy!

Love,

Your King and Your Contentment

*borrowed from Sheri Rose Shepherd's Book "His Princess - Love Letters from Your King"

____________________

Philippians 4:12-13

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have to plenty. I have learned the secret in being content in any and every situation, where well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through HIM who gives me strength."

____________________

I love this devotion for today. For you see, I have been struggling with my contentment with the Lord and Him alone! I know that is sin, but as humans we do find ourselves in these struggles often. Today, I thank God for His unending love and grace that He offered to me with this reading today.

I want you all to remember that WE are HIS Princesses and need to remember that our only true contentment can come from GOD ALONE!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your gentle reminder this morning that I need to find my true contentment only in YOU!

I love you precious Father! Please restore unto me the joy of my salvation today and show me your true contentment.

Love your Daughter,

Karina's Garden of Grace

9 Least Effective Exercises Slideshow

2009-06-29T11:02:00.002-05:00

9 Least Effective Exercises Slideshow

Shared via AddThis

4th OF JULY BROWNIE RECIPE ~ by Betty Crocker

2009-06-28T14:04:00.007-05:00

BETTY CROCKER ~ STARS and STRIPE BROWNIES

Ingredients:

1 box (1 lb 6.5 oz) Betty Crocker® Original Supreme brownie mix (with chocolate syrup pouch)
(Water, vegetable oil and eggs called for on brownie mix box)
1 container (12 oz) Betty Crocker® Whipped fluffy white frosting
1 tube (0.68 oz) Betty Crocker® red decorating gel
1 tube (0.68 oz) Betty Crocker® blue decorating gel
1 tube (0.68 oz) Betty Crocker® white decorator icing
Betty Crocker® Decorating Decors stars

********************************

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Line 13x9-inch pan with foil so foil extends about 2 inches over sides of pan. Spray foil with cooking spray. Make and bake brownies as directed on box for 13x9-inch pan, using water, oil and eggs. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

2. Remove brownies from pan by lifting foil; peel foil from sides of brownies. Continue as desired with options below. Flag Brownies: Frost brownies. Using red decorating gel, pipe stripes onto frosted brownie. Add decors in upper left corner of brownie. 24 brownies Firecracker Brownies: Using 1-inch round cookie cutter, cut out brownie rounds. Stack 2 brownie rounds together, spreading frosting between rounds and on top. Garnish with decors. 48 brownies Star Brownies: Using 2 1/2-inch star-shaped cookie cutter, cut brownies. Place frosting in resealable food-storage bag; cut off one bottom corner of bag. Pipe frosting on star-shaped brownies. Sprinkle with decors.

Makes: 13 brownies

REALLY FREE SAMPLES!

2009-06-25T06:39:00.002-05:00

While surfing the web early this a.m., I stumbled upon a website that actually is offering FREE samples of many things!

I requested mine! Get yours now!

Click Here:

Happy Sampling!

Karina's Garden of Grace

FREE DUNKIN DONUTS COFFEE

2009-06-25T05:43:00.000-05:00

CULVER'S FROZEN CUSTARD TREAT

2009-06-24T18:04:00.003-05:00

CULVER'S CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY

JUNE 29, 2009

SCHERERVILLE, INDIANA

_______________________________________

There are not enough words to express how much we appreciate all of our loyal customers throughout Schererville, Indiana and the Tri-Town Area, so, we are going to have a celebration! We hope you will join us and celebrate our 4 year Anniversary on Monday, June 29th. There will be balloons and coloring pages for the kids and we will be offering Turtle and Caramel Cashew Sundaes all day (and night) for $2.00. $2.00 Turtle & Caramel Cashew Sundaes

So come on in and celebrate with us, and "Get Culverized". See you on the 29th!

SUPPORT 4-H DAIRY CLUB!

2009-06-24T18:00:00.003-05:00

June is National Dairy Month, so join us at Culver's of Schererville on June 27th and 28th for two days of fun activities in celebrating our appreciation of cows. Culver's of Schererville will donate 5% of sales to the 4-H Dairy Club to show our appreciation for all the dairy farmers, 4-H members and their cows who work so hard to produce our dairy products. What better way to celebrate National Dairy Month then having some Culver's famous frozen custard and cheese curds.

Culver's Fresh Frozen Custard . . . A Creamy Frozen Dairy Treat
Culver's of Schererville will have a Make Your Own Sunday Contest from 2-4 p.m., Flavor of the Day Contest, Decorate a Cow, Dairy Trivia Contest. Come see and pet a live cow from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thanks to our diary farmers for helping make Culver's frozen custard SO DELICIOUS!

Happy Eating!
Karina's Garden of Grace

FREE SUMMER STUFF

2009-06-22T13:02:00.003-05:00

A WELL-STOCKED PANTRY ~ CAN SAVE YOU MONEY!

2009-06-22T09:57:00.031-05:00

THE BASIC STEPS FOR AN ORGANIZED ~ WELL-STOCKED PANTRY!

By: Karina Struven

Upon doing my Spring Cleaning, I wanted to share with you some Kitchen Basics.

It is my belief that every home needs a well organized pantry. If you don’t have the luxury of a walk in pantry (like the beautiful one photographed above) don't despair! You should to designate and organize an area in your home to serve as the pantry. Even if you sent up shelves in your basement.

The benefits of maintaining a well-stocked and neatly organized pantry are numerous. A bonus is, you won’t have to make as many trips to the store. If you follow these easy steps that I have outlined in this article for you -- by starting with keeping items inventoried and making a complete list of what you need to purchase -- it will not only save you much aggravation, but will allow you to use the coupons you have clipped and purchase items on-sale and even in bulk, saving you: gas, time and money! As well as, your sanity!

Function ~ First in the Pantry
It does not matter how large or small your pantry is, but FUNCTION needs to be your first consideration. Here are a few functional tips for organizing your pantry:

Just like organizing any room in your home, a pantry should be planned to save time, energy, efficiency; and therefore, money!
Your pantry should be well-lit so that you can see all areas.
Make your pantry efficient for you. It should be located centrally in your home. Either in the kitchen or a hall closet that is relatively close to your work area. If needed, it is perfectly fine to create multiple pantry areas. If doing this, just remember to organize each space so that the items needed in the kitchen are in the kitchen ~~ cleaning supplies separate from food ~~ and bedding and bath linens are near your home’s bedrooms and bathrooms, and so on.
Consider the humidity and temperature of your pantry; you don’t want to store dry food items in a damp place and a pantry that has a relatively cool, constant temperature is ideal.
If space is limited, buy plastic storage containers that you can stack in a coat closet, on top of closet shelves, and/or even under your bed. In these containers, I would keep items that you access less often in these storage areas. If you buy in bulk to save money and keep the excess inventory in these less easily accessed areas, you can always restock a smaller supply in your most convenient pantry storage area.
Keeping a "good inventory" of the items you use regularly, will allow you to be able to avoid tempting sale prices on items you don’t use and/or you don't need.

Getting Started ~ Cleaning Out The Pantry
Now that you have planned your pantry for function, it is now time to get started on reorganizing!

Once you have established your pantry area, you’ll want to start by removing everything ~ I know, I know ~ don't freak ~ by removing everything will be able to help you get started and in order.

Empty your pantry completely ~ moving everything into boxes, tabletops and/or counter tops. Discard or recycle anything that you find is spoiled, expired, stale or otherwise unusable.
Before setting about to put things in order ~ you are going to have fun by disassembling whatever food cupboards you currently use. Look at everything as you take it out and consider the following: How long has it been since you used that item? For example, Herbs ~ loose a great deal of flavor after 6 months even in a dark, cool space.
While you’re at it check expiration date and throw away accordingly. Remember the rule: When in doubt, Throw it out!
Clean any dust or dirt off of each item as you go.
If something has lost it's label, but you know for certain what it is, make either a handmade (or digital created) label for easy recognition and mount it to your container.
The best part about this process ~ even if it is time consuming, is that it only has to be done twice a year. Plan to do it in the Spring and Fall.
Clean the shelving and walls thoroughly with a solution of warm water and mild soap, drying them with a towel and by letting the shelf surfaces dry thoroughly.

Preparation ~ Pantry Space
Once you have removed everything, cleaned and prepared your pantry space, you are ready to start re-organization. This is the fun part!

Here are my suggested steps for getting your pantry ready for increased efficiency, order and money saving~!

As you begin to organize your "Well-Stocked Pantry"...look for any available space you can use to store items; the back of a pantry door can be used to store spices and other small items if you hang a rack over the door. You can purchase these racks at either: Bed Bath and Beyond, Home Depot, Lowes, Target and or any other similar retail store.
If needed, now is the time to repaint your pantry walls and shelves. I believe that white or off-white is generally the best color for a pantry. It shows cleanliness!
At this point, you can lay down some easily wipe-off surface paper on your shelves. This will protect your shelf surfaces from stains.
Your next step is organizing your shelves according to the contents that you want to keep in your "Well-Stocked Pantry."
I suggest getting some of Tupperware's Modular Mate containers. They are great for keeping dry goods such as flour, sugar, pasta, teabags, coffee beans, and cereal. I believe that using rectangular or square containers will take up less space and stack more neatly than round or oval shaped containers.

The Pantry Re-Organizing
Now that you have cleaned out your pantry, you can begin to get things organized by using the following steps:

Start by sorting pantry items into categories: Examples include: fruits, vegetables, soups, condiments, boxed lunches/dinners, canned meats, sauces, baking goods, and rice/pasta/dry beans. While you're doing this first round of categorizing, be sure to put the items in order by their expiration dates, by putting the soonest expiring being the last item to go back into the pantry (i.e. it will be in front, thereby reducing wastefulness).
The heaviest of items should go on the lower shelves. Especially if you have a lazy Susan installed. For example, you have a large can of Tomato Sauce, put it on the lowest shelf with the canisters for your baking goods. In the meantime, leave the upper shelves open for those items that you use frequently, and lighter weight items like beans, pasta and/or rice.
By using canisters you can keep dry goods and baking items such as: flour and sugar, fresh and bug free. You can keep smaller items, such as tea and coffee, dried fruits and bouillon in small baskets and/or plastic bins, which also helps keep them fresh.
Group items that are alike together: breakfast items, snack items, baking goods, cleaning supplies, dish linens, etc. It is important that if you take a bit of time to consider how things are arranged in the grocery store where you typically shop, you can group your pantry items similarly. Using subgroups will help to keep things more neatly stored and easily accessible. For example, all canned goods go on one shelf, organized into subgroups such as: fruits, vegetables, soups, crackers and cookies, etc.
Labeling shelves will help you keep your groups in order.

Pantry Inventory List and Restocking

Now that you have cleaned our your "Well~Stocked Pantry," have discarded outdated items, added shelving (if needed), you will want to take inventory. By doing this it will help you to determine what is missing and what needs to be regularly re-supplied.

For your convenience, I have created a starter list of common items you may want to keep in your pantry and add to your own pantry inventory list:

Canned Items – Soup, Broths, Vegetables, Fruit, Beans, Tomatoes, etc.;
Jar Foods – Tomato Paste and Sauce, Olives, Pickles, Peanut Butter, Jams and Jellies
Baking Items – Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Flour, Sugar, Extracts and more!
Spices – Salt, Pepper, Basil, Italian Season, Tarragon, Paprika, Crushed Red Pepper and more!
Starches – Pasta, Potatoes, Rice
Condiments – Soy Sauce, Vinegar, Ketchup, Mustard, Mayonnaise
Sweeteners – Syrup, Honey, Artificial Sweetener
Dry Goods – Cereals, Oatmeal, Pancake Mix, Raisins & Dried Fruit, Nuts & Seeds
Oils - Olive Oil, Canola Oil, Peanut Oil, Vegetable Oil, etc.

Keeping The Pantry Well Organized
Now that you have your pantry cleaned and organized, you will want to follow these few easy tips to keep it that way:

Don’t buy things that won’t get used; this will save money!
Do buy only according your tastes, budget and needs.
Look for coupons (with our coupon bar) and sale items to keep in your pantry
Use your pantry regularly, checking your inventory to be sure that you are not overstocked.
If possible, items such as paper towels, paper plates, napkins, etc. that will not expire or become stale, purchase in larger quantities.

The Wrap-Up
If possible, try to buy reserve quantities of the staple items that you use the most. This will avoid "out-of-stock" items. Having an extra jar of mayo or some reserve cans of chicken and/or tuna salad can come in very handy with a surprise visit from a friend. Be sure to add these items to your shopping list when you break into your reserves.

With kids in the house, you might want to consider making a special area and/or basket where you can keep quick snacks and treats handy. This will help keep the kids out the pantry! Homemade trail mix is a great snack and easy to store!

I have found that it is best to try to reorganize your pantry when you are alone, or have a block of time available for you to concentrate and complete the project quickly!

Remember to store cleaning products and chemicals away from your food items!

Keep items that you use the most often in front and readily visible!

Stack cans, jars and other items so that the labels can be easily read.

Always be on the lookout for new organization aids such as: baskets, wire baskets, adjustable racks, stacking containers, and more that will improve your pantry organization.

Make a "guest" or "refreshment" shelf to keep crackers, dips, chips, drink mixes and other items handy so you are ready to have an impromptu party or your children's friends.

Keep paper/pencil and/or a small whiteboard in your pantry. You could also paint a chalkboard on the back of your pantry door. You will be surprised how this will encourage family members to add what they would like to the inventory or what they have noticed is out-of-stock.

If you can’t get everything into the pantry neatly, you might store non-essential items in a more “remote” storage location such as the garage or basement.

Basic Pantry Staples:
Baking Soda
Baking Powder
Corn Starch
Flour
Sugar (Powdered, Granulated and Brown)
Yeast
Stock (Chicken, Beef, Vegetable)
Maple Syrup
Cooking Wine
Milk
Butter
Eggs
Mustard
Lemons (or Lemon Juice)
Mayonnaise
Garlic
Hot Sauce
Onions
Parmesan cheese

Other Handy Pantry Items:
Dried Beans
Pastas
Spaghetti Sauce
Canned Soup (Cream of Chicken or Mushroom)
Various Cheeses
Sour Cream
Cream Cheese
Canned or Frozen Vegetables (usually frozen taste better)
Potatoes
Celery
Carrots

Happy Pantrying!

Karina's Garden of Grace

I JUST MADE $6.00

2009-06-22T09:52:00.004-05:00

I have found a great site to share with you! You will not get rich quick, but guaranteed you will make some extra spending money and/or grocery money!

You can get paid to read emails, take surveys and play games.....all at:

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JOIN TODAY and THANKS for using my link!

Happy Earnings,
Karina's Garden of Grace

MAMA'S BLACKBERRY DESSERT

2009-06-22T09:31:00.003-05:00

MAMA'S BLACKBERRY DESSERT

Ingredients
2 cups blackberries
1 tbsp water
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
2 tbsp butter, melted

2 cups dried bread crumbs
vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for topping

Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter an 8 x 8-in baking dish, or a 10-in pie pan. Rinse the blackberries in cold water, removing any impurities. Combine the blackberries and water in a saucepan, and cook gently over low heat about 6 minutes, until light purple and juicy.Remove 1/2 cup of the berry juice, and combine it with the nutmeg and cornstarch in another small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add the cooked berries and any remaining juice, and stir together.In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and butter together until blended. Add the bread crumbs and toss to moisten them.Pour the blackberry mixture into the prepared baking pan, and spoon the breadcrumb mixture over the top. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.Serve warm, with whipped cream or ice cream.

Yield
Serves 6

Cook Time
Prep Time: 20 mins. Cook Time: 30 mins.

HOMEMADE BREAD CRUMBS

2009-06-22T08:35:00.003-05:00

Ingredients

6 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

1 tsp dried ground thyme
1 1/2 tbsp dried basil
1 tbsp dried oregano
A few twists of freshly ground black pepper
A Pinch salt
4 cups cubed bread

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 325° F. Stir the herbs and seasonings into the olive oil or melted butter. In a large bowl, drizzle the oil or butter mixture over the cubed bread, tossing to mix well. Spread the cubes in a single layer on a paper-lined baking pan. Depending on the dryness of the bread, bake for 10 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven. Stir the croutons every 10 minutes so they can brown evenly. Cool the croutons before sprinkling on salads.Croutons freeze well stored in plastic bags for many months. Stored at room temperature, croutons will keep for a couple of weeks.

Yield
4 cups

MAKING MONEY ONLINE!

2009-06-17T14:51:00.003-05:00

Just found this site! Really works! Get your FREE Report that reveals how to get thousands of dollars injected into your bank account, every week!

Try it!

Many Blessings ~

Karina's Garden of Grace

FREE TRAVEL GUIDES!

2009-06-17T14:47:00.002-05:00

With Summer upon us ~ this is a great site to check out for FREE travel information:

Just Click the photo and create your dream get-a-way!

Happy Travelling!

Karina's Garden of Grace

HOMEMADE OXI CLEAN

2009-06-17T14:35:00.002-05:00

A good friend of mine just shared this recipe with me. I tried it today, and it works!! A lot cheaper than OXI CLEAN too!

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup water
1/2 cup peroxide
1/2 cup baking soda

Directions: Mix together and soak laundry in it for 20 minutes to overnight ~ than wash as usual.

Shortcut: You can just skip the water and pour the peroxide and baking soda directly into the wash water with your laundry soap and wash as usual.

Thanks dear friend,

Happy Washing ~
Karina's Garden of Grace

MAKE YOUR OWN LAUNDRY SOAP

2009-06-16T04:22:00.002-05:00

STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
borrowed from Mummydeals.org

In an effort to really protect our children and ourselves from harmful toxics, my friend Lynda and I decided to make our own laundry detergent. Of course the other advantage is the cost factor. We paid a total of $7 for 3 of the ingredients but 2 of those ingredients still have tons left for us to do it again. I estimate we will get an ENTIRE year's worth of laundry detergent for $7. Of course based on your family size this will vary but what I know is; it's way cheaper than a store brand and way better for you and the environment.
Before I show you how I have to tell you I felt a little funny making it, like even I had gone too far in the frugality thing but it only took us 30 minutes and was a ton of fun.
I would recommend doing it with a friend, you make a HOWGE batch!!
Here's the step by step guide:
You need:Borax (around $2.50)Washing soda. Found in the laundry aisle. ($3.50)
Bar of soap. Use a pure natural one to make this even better for your family. ($.99)
Grater
Pan and spoon
5 gallon bucket

I also had 2 empty laundry detergents
TOTAL COST: $7 but we have lots of borax and soda left!
1) First, grate the soap.
2) Put about four cups of water into a pan and heat it up. Keep the heat below a boil and add the soap to it gradually. Stir the hot water until the soap is dissolved and you have soapy water.
3) Put three gallons of hot water into the five gallon bucket. Then mix in the hot soapy water stir it for a while, then add a cup of the washing soda. Keep stirring it for another minute or two, then add a half cup of borax if you are using borax. Stir for another couple of minutes, then let the stuff sit overnight to cool.
When you wake up in the morning, your soap will be that’s a paler shade of the soap that you used. One measuring cup full of this will be roughly what you need to do a load of laundry and the ingredients are basically the same as laundry detergent. Out of three gallons, you’ll get about 48 loads of laundry.
Tip: You know all those little bars of soap you get that you can't use anymore as they're the "end bit"? You can save those and use them for this.
Many of you have asked if it worked well. I honestly love the way it works but I am going to stain and wash two shirts in the next couple of days and show you the results so stick around!

Let me know what you think of this one? Thanks.

Happy Soaping,

Karina's Garden of Grace

FREE CRAFTING AT FAVECRAFTS!

2009-06-13T16:21:00.002-05:00

Attention Crafters! This is a wonderful, awesome website for those of us how like to Craft!

Click the link and check it out for yourself.

http://www.favecrafts.com/

Happy Crafting,

Karina's Garden of Grace

FREE GARDEN CRAFTS EBOOK

2009-06-13T16:12:00.002-05:00

As summer approaches, you might want to spruce up your garden with some decorative flower pots or painted watering cans. What better way to get the latest crafting ideas than by using our FREE Garden Craft eBook? Not only are these ideas decorative and fun, but they are a great way to help the environment.

Personal gardens reduce the reliance on industrial farms, which use chemical fertilizers and more oil for transportation, contribute to plastic waste through packaging, and contribute to greater carbon emissions. Organic vegetables from the back garden simply taste better and help encourage people to eat better.

In the spirit of this wonderful movement, we have put together this exclusive collection of our favorite garden crafts. We hope these ideas inspire you to start your own garden. Use recycled materials for some of these crafts and you’ll be an eco-goddess. Here are just a few of the ideas to make your garden a beautiful place. We have in our free eBook:

Get the Garden Craft eBook for free now! [PDF]

Section 1: Flower Pots
Learn how to decorate your very own clay flower pots for spring!

Section 2: Plant Stakes
These decorative plant stakes will brin your garden to life.

Section 3: Watering Cans
Turn an ordinary watering can into a sentimental keepsake you will want to save forever.

Section 4: Garden Decorations
Decorate your garden with everything from some cute clay turtles to floral vegetable storage crates.

Happy Crafting!

Karina's Garden of Grace

SAVING SITES

2009-06-12T06:28:00.002-05:00

Hi ya all!

Just wanted to let you in on some great sites I found while surfing this a.m. Yes, it Friday and grocery day...coupon day!

I have found that the coupons on these sites ~ actually work!

COUPON SITES
http://www.couponcrib.com
http://www.seriouslyfreestuff.com
http://www.savingsheaven.com
http://www.retailmenot.com
http://www.couponchief.com
http://www.couponmountain.com

Enjoy and Happy Savings!

Karina's Garden of Grace

HOME DEPOT - HOME IMPROVER CLUB!

2009-06-12T04:30:00.002-05:00

This is a great time to sign up for the Home Improver Club too!
When you do -- you will get: 1) Access to exclusive savings Workshop schedules and registration; 2) Project know-how and inspiration; 3) Special alerts on newly lower priced products; and 4) Sneak peeks at new products! Plus, FREE workshops in your area!

Sign up here:

http://www.homeimproverclub.com/workshops.aspx?Type=3

THE HOME DEPOT - GARDEN CLUB

2009-06-12T04:12:00.002-05:00

Sign up for the Home Depot Gardening Club CLICK HERE (it's FREE!) and you will get expert gardening tips; valuable coupons (worth $500 throughout the year); as well as, timely regional tips. All delivered right to your mailbox! Who couldn't use that?
Also, Find workshops in your area. Get tips and advice from the experts at The Home Depot. Click here to find workshops in your area.

Enjoy and Happy Gardening!

Karina's Garden of Grace

GET OUT OF DEBT - an Funny, But True Video by Saturday Night Live

2009-06-11T15:35:00.003-05:00

BEING A KEEPER OF THE HOME!

2009-06-11T10:46:00.003-05:00

I love being a Keeper of My Home!

Here is the scripture that I remind myself of when I feel overwhelmed and worn out!

PROVERBS 31

10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls.
16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
31 Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Many Blessings,
Karina's Garden of Grace

EARN MONEY ONLINE WITH YOU DATA

2009-06-11T10:30:00.003-05:00

Dear Friend,

I found something that I think you will like. The company's name is YouData (youdata.com). They are trying to convince consumers like us that we should be the ones controlling our own data and selling our own attention, not third parties like broadcasters, newspapers, and spammers. By creating a MeFile at YouData.com, I now control what ads I see and when I see them. Best part - I am selling my attention directly to interested advertisers, for real money. That's right, I get paid for giving them my attention. I can use the funds to buy music and video online, donate to charities, give to my favorite blogs and websites, or keep the change myself and do whatever I want with it.

It's real. They pay. You should check it out.

Click this link to sign up. My MeFile ID, garden, in the "Referral Code" will tell them I sent you.
http://www.youdata.com/join/garden

Many Blessings from Karina's Garden of Grace

RECIPES FOR BEAUTIFUL CONTAINER GARDENS

2009-06-11T04:28:00.000-05:00

Recipes for Beautiful Container Gardens

YOUR ONE-DAY FINANCIAL MAKEOVER

2009-06-11T04:27:00.001-05:00

Follow the link:
Your One-Day Financial Makeover

WHEN LIFE THROWS A CURVE BALL!

2009-06-11T04:22:00.000-05:00

I always though life's road would be smooth after accepting Christ as my Personal Savior late in life, being married for 15 years to my soul mate, and having 3 wonderful children. But, I must admit after this last year, I know now that life sure does "throw us curve balls," when we are least expecting it. But, I also know, the Christ (the God of this Universe) is sovereign! And I rejoice in that and praise Him for that!
A dear friend of mine shared with me her "old recycled magazines." And I am glad she did! For this afternoon while reading the MOPS Connections magazine, I was truly blessed by the following:
Curves Ahead
By: Shelly Radic (Director of Ministry Life)
In a world without curves, there would be ...
No mountains or hillsWinding rivers or arching waves.
No broad valleys or deep canyons
Puffy clouds or crescent moon.
A sameness in the shapes and forms of creation.

In a world without curves, there would be ....
No game spinners or chance cards
Nothing to bounce or kick or toss
No Slinky, no Twister, no Hula hoop,
No yo-yo, physical or emotional.
Precious little playtime to relievelife's stress and strain.

In a world without curves there would be ...
infrequent need to inquire for directions,
And rare opportunities to trustin the midst of the unknown.
Little anticipation before the
climax of a great story,
And no dynamic crescendo or
decrescendo in a song.
Fewer surprises, good and bad.

In a world without curves, there would be ...
Straight lines,
Sameness and safety.
Extreme predictability.
More freedom from choice.
Little adventure or opportunityto try something new.

In a world without curves, there would be ...
No rosy cheeks, arching eyebrows or bowed lips,
No shapely hip or rounded breast,
No burgeoning bump. No woman.
Nothing to shelter, support and shape a child.

In a world without curves, there would be ...
No rotation around an axis,
Therefore, no season,
No revolution around the sun,
Therefore, no patter of day or night.
No rainfall, no sunshine, no rest.

In a world without curves, there would be ...No life!
___________________________
Therefore, today, I thank God for the "Curve Balls" he allows us to go through!

Thanks for listening,
In His Garden of Grace,
Karina Struven

"WHERE SIN ABOUNDS, GRACE ABOUNDS MORE" Romans 5:20

2009-06-11T04:20:00.000-05:00

Today, during my morning prayer with my husband, he so encouraged me when he said "Father thank you for Romans 5:20 "...where sin abounds, grace abounds more." It was a simple "thank you" from my husband to his Heavenly Father, but so profound.
Let's just think about this for a moment....in Romans 6:1 it says "what shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound more?" Does that mean that God has stuck us in this sinful life on earth just so that Grace will abound more? I don't think so..... We know as believers in Jesus Christ that we are redeemed once and for all upon salvation. But, as humans still on earth, we are exposed to sin everyday of our lives. I believe Romans 5:20 guarantees to us, that yes while we are still part of this earthly body, sin will abound and even get worse as the days linger. But, we have hope with this verse that while we are still living in "sin" GRACE ABOUNDS MORE! It is the GRACE that Jesus Christ shed with his own blood on the Cross of Calvary! I know that I for one ~ am grateful for Grace! For I was a sinner and now am set free.
So what about the everyday screw ups that we all make? Well, there is good news for us as the Children of the Father! It says in Romans 5:20, that where our sin abounds, His GRACE abounds even more! That's right! You cannot sin out of the grace of God. There is nothing that we can do that He cannot fix! His grace and love is greater than all and abounds everywhere it is needed. This is the reason why we truly need Him in everything we do. Even in the little things in life, for God is concerned with every little detail of our lives and His love knows no end. It is the love of a Father to a Son/Daughter! So anytime we mess up our lives, we have an advocate with God the Father (1 John 2:1) and we can always come to Him with open and repenting arms and know that He is "faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." For He is the True Life, and His Grace abounds more than you or I could ever know.
I Praise and Thank Him for that today and for this gentle reminder of GRACE!
In His Garden of Grace,
Karina

GREENHOUSE WALK WITH MY SON!

2009-06-09T17:32:00.000-05:00

"Hi all!

What a great day I had today with my oldest son. He had a field trip that he was not at all excited about going on, so I decided we needed a 'mom and me day!' (at the age of 13).

I found out the most important thing today: they are NEVER too old to have a 'mom and me day!' It used to be 'mommy and me,' but with his ever changing physic, emotional and mental capacity now at 13, MOM and ME worked great!

It was great to be a growing teenager with him and sleep until 10:30 a.m.! I am always up before the crack of dawn (which I was, but went back to sleep after the other children left for school). How refreshing -- REST!

We grabbed a hot dog at the local hot dog stand 'Corky's' and headed out to Bultema Farms in NW Indiana. As we walked around the green house, he was so excited to help pick out flowers. With his extensive knowlege of horticulture -- something I had no idea he had or enjoyed so much-- I was blessed by having him with me and loving God's beautiful flowers! I am a flower addict. If I had hundreds to spend, I would have.

The best part about the Greenhouse Walk was when Ken turned and said to me 'Mom, I love life and living things.' What 13 year old boy who is so analytical can be so caring and loving? That is my Kenny! It touched my inner being to know that he is so still in touch with his emotions and heart and that he will accept these wonderful feelings; and even share them with me.

What a blessed day we had. As we came home he was so excited to help me unload the Truck with all our beautiful flowers (and let me add --- did we get a deal $5 a flat!). We headed to the back yard and planted them right away! Of course, the dirt and water were the highlight for him! But for me -- it was spending time on our Greenhouse Walk.

Many Blessings

To God Be the Glory!"

Karina's Garden of Grace

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF GRACE

2009-06-09T17:31:00.000-05:00

"Grace is a free will gift, not something that is coerced (Matt 10:8).

Grace always remains within the parameters of God’s law.

God’s grace always expresses love (John 3:16, Heb 2:9).

God’s Grace demonstrates His truth (John 1:17).

God’s grace encourages and empowers a true Christian to do righteous works of grace (2Cor 9:8).

God’s grace promotes abundant living (John 10:10).

Thanks and praise, whether given to God or man, is a form of grace (Heb 13:15).

Sometimes the blessings of grace are obvious, at other times they are extremely hard to comprehend.

Sometimes the blessings of grace are received immediately; at other times they are a long time in coming.

God’s grace establishes His righteous character in true Christians.

Gods and Christ’s grace provide for all aspects of salvation (Eph 2:8–10).'"

MAKE SOME $$ ONLINE

2009-06-09T17:29:00.000-05:00

"Dear Friends,

I found something that I think you will like. The company's name is YouData (youdata.com). They are trying to convince consumers like us that we should be the ones controlling our own data and selling our own attention, not third parties like broadcasters, newspapers, and spammers.

Just by creating a SECURE 'MeFile' at YouData.com, I now control what ads I see and when I see them. Best part - I am selling my attention directly to interested advertisers, for real money. That's right, I get paid for giving them my attention. I can use the funds to buy music and video online, donate to charities, give to my favorite blogs and websites, or keep the change myself and do whatever I want with it.

It's real. They pay. You should check it out.

I WOULD REALLY APPRECIATE YOU USING MY LINK TO JOIN!
Click this link to sign up. http://www.youdata.com/join/garden

Thank you and Blessings,

Karina's Garden of Grace