Amy's Notebook 06.10.09

I love this decoupaged window idea for some crafting inspiration (@ ohdeedoh)

This pocket pillowcase would be a great thing for keeping track of our beloved bunny (@ elsie marley)

I need to replace my French Press so I can make the perfect iced coffee (@ Small Notebook)

I like this idea for making a lunch puzzle (@ This Little Project)

I adore these flowered sandals and I know my daughter would love them too (@ Happy Together)

I will have to download these spaceship stickers for my little guy (@ GoodyBlog)

This is a great tutorial for making pie crust (@ Home Ec 101)

I love these sweet little flower pots with the house numbers on them (@ Evangeline's Vine)

This little spray painting craft would be a fun way to keep my kids entertained this summer (@ No Time for Flash Cards)

This graduation cap clock is a genius way to to showcase that graduation cap (@ Craftzine)

These tips for how to yard sale are so great (@ Nesting Place)

I am really inspired by this blouse refashion project (@ My Mama Made)

I love this resourceful post for making your own wool soakers (@ The Artful Parent)

Amy's Notebook 06.03.09

I am going to have to try making these sweet little felt flower hair clips (@ koala brain)

I have been inspired to make some homemade Pop-Tarts today (@ The Idea Room)

I like this list of things to pack when traveling with kids (@ Make & Takes)

These strawberry butter looks like a delicious summer treat (@ The Kitchn)

I have a feeling I could polish off a couple of these stuffed grilled portobello mushrooms (@ Annie's Eats)

This is a great idea for putting cleaning agendas in each room (@ Parent Hacks)

This green space travel case made me giggle and inspired (@ design sponge)

I love this refashioned picnic basket for the summer season (@ Oilcloth Addict)

These breaded & baked chicken drumsticks look like they would make delicious picnic food (@ Simply Recipes)

I want to add some of these ideas to our summer list (@ two straight lines)

I love this idea for stocking a family store (@ Like Merchant Ships)

I love these DIY craft organizers (@ Ashley Ann Photography)

These twine covered Mason jars are beautiful (@ Vickie Howell)

This kitchen stool makeover is adorable (@ A Soft Place to Land)

I am dying to try this chocolate ice cream cake (@ Omnomicon)

I like these ten tips for being a more light-hearted parent (@ The Happiness Project)

Amy's Notebook 05.13.09

I love these embellished lunch totes (@ Skip to My Lou)

This Chicken Marbella recipe looks absolutely delicious (@ Not Martha)

These toddler pants fashioned from men's shirt sleeves is genius (@ Love in the Mommyhood)

These cinnamon raisin bagels look delicious (@ Smitten Kitchen)

I want to bookmark this gluten free bread for my friend's who have allergies (@ A Foothill Home Companion)

I love this post on whether or not a warehouse club membership is a good deal or not (@ Money Saving Mom)

I have been inspired by this DIY patio project (@ Remodeling This Life)

This lemon chicken with rice looks delicious (@ Serious Eats)

This homemade hand scrub would make a wonderful hostess gift or sweet gift for a friend (@ Craftzine via Good Life Eats)

This tutorial for flower collars is absolutely adorable (@ katie did)

This leftovers log would be great for tracking what is in the fridge (@ The Kitchn)

I want to make some of these easy cinnamon bites (@ 4 Reluctant Entertainers)

This spinach & ricotta frittata would be a delicious brunch dish (@ Food Blogga)

I have been inspired to paint my garage door (@ The Southern Family via Nesting Place)

I adore these glass tiled pendants (@ The Idea Room)

I love this list of 20 pocket-change ideas for a date night (@ Small Notebook)

This knitted cardigan is so cute! (@ Ramblings of a Knitting Obsessive)

This DIY J Crew Astrid Sweater is something that I think even I could tackle (@ Mighty Girl)

I need an ice cream maker so I can make this cookies and cream ice cream (@ Annie's Eats)

I love this creative and frugal idea for an end table (@ The Inspired Room)

Another yummy rainbow cupcake you could bake (@ Baking Bites)

Amy's Notebook 04.29.09

I had no idea that you could make mozzarella at home (@ Scribbit)

This all-natural cleaning supplies basket would make a wonderful Mother's Day gift (@ Simple, Green, Frugal Co-Op)

Making these shadow puppets would be a fun-filled family night (@ Gardening Without Skills)

I love this free pillowcase pattern for a beginning sewer (@ Karlee Fruchs)

These waffle dishcloths are adorable and would make a wonderful gift (@ Freda's Hive)

I love these fabric-covered headbands (@ mmm crafts)

I want to make this rainbow cake for the kids (@ shelterrific)

These fudgewiches look absolutely heavenly (@ plumpudding)

This is a wonderful tutorial for making your own cloth napkins (@ Skip to My Lou)

I am loving this circus party theme for a birthday (@ armelle blog)

I can't decide if I want to make the banana peanut butter granola or the bacon, mushroom, & broccoli quiche this week (@ Annie's Eats)

These brownie bottom ice cream cupcakes would be a fun summer treat (@ Joy the Baker)

I am going to have to try this DIY version for cream of mushroom soup (@ Serious Eats)

I want to try this lasagna recipe (@ Tidy Mom)

These graham cracker chewy bars would be a hit as a Father's Day gift (@ LA Times)

These are some wonderful tips for how to be Craigslist savvy (@ Small Notebook)

I love this teacup pincushion (@ Gingham Cherry)

This paper flower wreath would be beautiful for a wedding shower (@ Once Wed)

I love this recipe for naturally-dyed playdough (@ One Golden Apple)

This is an excellent article on the cost-effectiveness of making your own foods out of pantry ingredients which lead me to this bagel recipe that I will have to try! (@ Slate)

This hot pink raspberry cake looks divine! (@ The Kitchn)

Amy's Notebook 04.22.09

I love these days of the week tags for getting your kids dressed in the morning (@ Living Locurto)

These painted letter plaques would be a lovely addition over a doorway (@ A Soft Place to Land)

This Craigslist ugly art makeover was jaw-dropping in its awesomeness (@ Like Merchant Ships)

I love these cans made into flower pots and this perpetual calendar can (@ design sponge)

I had no idea that you could can butter (@ Chocolate on My Cranium)

I am going to have to try some of these homemade macaroni & cheese recipes that were left in the comments (@ Money Saving Mom)

I am going to have to make some of these cake mix sugar cookies (@ Skip to My Lou)

I want to knit this cap-sleeved top for my daughter (@ Soulful Hues, Hobbies, & Random Thoughts)

This little art birthday party looks so sweet (@ Soule Mama)

I love this list of nine ways you can save while sitting at your desk (@ The Simple Dollar)

This quilted baby doll smock looks like a fast and fun sewing project (@ The Farm Chicks)

I adore this spring porch makeover (@ Design Mom)

This dollar store skirted sink is brilliant and budget-friendly (@ Eddie Ross)

My kids would love this staycation hotel idea for a fun weekend treat (JessieKate Designs)

I love this old door made into a desk (@ The Inspired Room)

This is a great tutorial on how to throw a wine party (@ Hope Studios)

Amy's Notebook 04.08.09

I want to make these tie dyed Easter eggs this year (@ Scribbit)

Here is another fun egg-dying technique to try (@ The Barefoot Kitchen Witch)

These Rice Krispie Easter Eggs look like a fun treat (@ ohdeedoh)

This ottoman made from a coffee table would definitely cover up the gashes on my table (@ Little Green Notebook)

These free bunny embroidery pattern is so sweet (@ orange you lucky!)

I love this little take-along placemat (@ Patchwork)

I really love this post on crafting and deciding if it is for you (@ Nesting Place)

These Easter Bunny Cake Pops are darling (@ Bakerella)

This is another great refashioned sweater tutorial (@ Lulu Bliss)

I am going to be using this idea for quickly softening butter (@ Simply Recipes)

I adore this cake plate tutorial (@ Storybook Woods)

This orange spice banana bread sounds like another fun recipe to try (@ Good Life Eats)

I love this idea for an egg memory game (@ scrumdilly do)

These tulle blossoms would brighten up any sticks in our backyard (@ Beetlegirl Designs)

I adore this post on living a complex life (@ MommyCoddle)

These tips for frugal Easter eggs are great (@ Small Homestead)

I want to make some bread bags for my homemade bread (@ SouleMama)

This baked french toast recipe looks delicious (@ whatever)

Amy's Notebook 04.01.09

This chicken cooked in milk looks like a recipe that I have to try (@ The Kitchn)

This little dress decor is too cute (@ ohdeedoh)

I love this round-up of ideas for things to do with Easter eggs (@ One Crafty Place)

This crocheted bottle cozy would be a great little baby shower gift with glass baby bottles (@ design sponge)

These heat embossed rocks would be a fun project to do with the kids or to use as placeholders at a dinner table (@ cheeky magpie)

I love these tips for greening up the lunch bag (@ betz white)

I want to try these lemon-herb roasted drumsticks (@ Serious Eats)

I need to do a spice cabinet clean out (@ Small Notebook)

These impromptu princess crowns would be great for a birthday party (@ Sparkle Power)

I would love to try making these etched glass jars (@ Martha Stewart)

This homemade buttermilk ranch dressing look delicious (@ Simply Recipes)

This hungry caterpillar cupcake train is too cute (@ Coco Cake Cupcakes)

These Easter finger puppets are darling (@ The Purl Bee)

I would really like an oilcloth tablecloth for my kitchen table (@ Twig & Thistle)

I am going to have to print out some of these little Easter printables (@ Skip to My Lou)

I love these little bird's nests as a sweet Easter treat (@ My Insanity)

I want to try this technique for cooking moist chicken breasts (@ The Kitchn, hat tip to Not Martha)

I want to try making these easy hooded towels (@ Make & Takes)

These Peep cupcakes sound like the perfect Easter treat (@ Baking Bites)

Amy's Notebook 03.25.09

I love this doily lampshade makeover (@ make grow gather)

These fabric Easter eggs would be so cute in my basket on my kitchen table (@ retro mama)

I am still wanting to make this lemony lemon cake (@ Smells Like Home)

I am dying to try this pie crust recipe (@ Scribbit)

I love this post on steps towards a more sustainable life (@ zen habits)

This herb marinated pork tenderloin looks delicious (@ Annie's Eats)

These freezer paper stencils are such a cute project to do with kids (@ Design Mom)

I love this list of ways to thrive in the kitchen with children (@ Simple Mom)

These greeting card made from a floppy disk is too cool (@ Build/Make/Craft/Bake)

I am going to have to try this recipe for old-fashioned homemade pancakes (@ My Wooden Spoon)

These allspice crumb muffins look like a delicious treat (@ Annie's Eats)

I want to try this brine for pork chops (@ The Kitchn)

I love this post on baking bread (@ down to earth)

I want to have a spring time tea party (@ The Inspired Room)

I will have to try this recipe for homemade cocktail sauce (@ Coconut & Lime)

Amy's Notebook 03.18.09

I want to make this beautiful spring wreath (@ A Soft Place to Land)

I love this personalized tote bag tutorial (@ a sister for the bean)

I would have never thought of covering stains on a skirt with fabric yo-yos (@ Craftzine)

I adore this sweet little pincushion tutorial (@ Etsy)

These iced oatmeal applesauce cookies look delicious (@ Mad About Martha)

This is a great tutorial for spring cleaning your sewing machine (@ Craft Nectar)

This wishing well is such a sweet little treat for children (@ Here We Are Together)

I still want to try making doughnuts with the kids (@ The Artful Parent)

I want to make this lemon bread recipe (@ i have to say...)

These chocolate mint cupcakes would be a wonderful treat (@ Simply Recipes)

I am going to have to remember this chip clip idea the next time we play cards (@ Parent Hacks)

I love this idea for a thrifty flower girl dress (@ Like Merchant Ships)

This fish and chips recipe looks so good (@ Coconut & Lime)

Here is another fish recipe I would like to try- Sicilian-Style Cod (@ Serious Eats)

These banana espresso chocolate chip muffins look like a wonderful addition to any brunch (@ Annie's Eats)

This is a great little tutorial on growing potatoes in a trash can (@ DIY Maven)

I adore these little pretzel shamrocks- definitely making these next year (@ On a Whim)

I love this cute little bag of beans (@ The Purl Bee)

This recipe for barbecue sauce looks yummy (@ The Perfect Pantry)

I like these tips for how to frost a cupcake (@ The Kitchn)

I love this top ten napkin fold techniques (Yes But No ButYes)

There are so many fun new knitting projects in the spring issue of Knitty (@ Knitty)

I am going to have to see if this recipe for banana muffins with streusel topping are better than my recipe (Genesis of a Cook)

I love this t-shirt makeover (@ Banana Frog)

I think these lemon cookies look so delicious (@ plumpudding)

Amy's Notebook 03.11.09

I love this idea for creating placemats (@ Wise Craft)

I enjoy getting a glimpse into extreme home makeovers to inspire my home (@ The Inspired Room)

This revamped storage shelf is darling (@ ohdeedoh)

I like these place card holders made from recycled corks (@ Lifehacker)

I really needed this reminder to focus a bit more on those sinking funds (@ Simple Mom)

I need to find some fun things around the house to spray paint (@ A Soft Place to Land)

These crunchy oven baked fries look delicious (@ Joy the Baker)

If I could eat spicy food, I would be indulging in these lotsa hotsa tacos (@ Make & Takes)

These homemade corn dogs look like a fun treat (@ chaos in the kitchen)

This woven button coaster is so chic (@ Craftstylish)

I love this post on breaking the frugal rules (@ The Small Notebook)

I want to knit up some of these candy-striped washcloths for the holidays (@ Knit With KT)

On the flip side, I love this post on discovering the necessities in your home (@ Money Saving Mom)

I want to make this Amish Friendship Bread starter sometime (@ Skip To My Lou)

I love this kitchen island makeover (@ Nesting Place)

I won't give up on trying to make pretzels (@ The Artful Parent)

I want to try these silver dollar pancakes (@ Serious Eats)

Amy's Notebook 03.04.09

I really love this post on the importance of family traditions (@ Pensieve)

This is the cutest princess birthday hat (@ Skip to My Lou)

These crooked coasters are beautiful (@ the long thread)

This zippered bird pouch pattern is too cute (@ betz white)

I love this post on gaining the motivation to exercise (@ Sparkle Power)

Making suncatchers in the wintertime sounds like a wonderful craft to do with the kids (@ Way Up High in the Monkey Bread Tree)

This shamrock brooch would be festive for St. Patrick's Day (@ A Fanciful Twist)

My family would go nuts for these meatball sliders (@ Smitten Kitchen)

I love this magnetic chalkboard made from a thrifted mirror (@ say YES! to Hoboken)

I want to make these bathtub crayons with my children (@ Pepper Paints)

This chandelier makeover makes me think I redo a lot of the light fixtures in our house (@ Vickie Howell)

This maple white bread sounds wonderful (@ The Wednesday Chef)

This 5 minute kite would be a great way to keep my kids entertained this spring (@ chica schmica)

This door organizer is a great way to keep things organized in your house (@ design sponge)

These leg warmers refashioned from a pair of knee high socks are so cute for your sweet babies and toddlers (@ My House Boutique)

I want to try this speedy sweet and sour chicken (@ Divine Domesticity)

Amy's Notebook 02.25.09

I love these little knitted duck slippers (@ Scribbit)

These triple chocolate brownies look delicious (@ Chocolate on My Cranium)

I love this portable camping lantern made from a recycled peanut butter jar (@ Made by Cynthia Rae)

I want to try these chocolate chip angel food cupcakes (@ Baking Bites)

This is a great tutorial for making shoe bags (@ betz white)

This yoga mat bag made from an old pair of pants is brilliant (@ CRAFT)

I want to try this chocolate chip cookie recipe (@ Joy the Baker)

These broccoli calzones look so delicious and I love this how-to video on shaping calzones (@ Baking and Books)

I bet my children would love these cinnamon waffles (@ Annie Eats)

These are some great ideas for affordable architectural personality (@ The Inspired Room)

This mudroom makeover makes me happy (@ whatever)

This is a great post on how to talk money (@ Simple Mom)

I want to bookmark these thirty things you can make as inspiration for this next month (@ Tip Nut)

I have never seen anything in my life like this micro-knitting. Unbelievable (@ whip up)

I want to make some of these homemade breakfast burritos as a quick breakfast in the morning (@ The Simple Dollar)

I can't wait to try this new waffle recipe (@ Serious Eats)

I love this post on what the author loves about her kitchen (@ Food Woolf)

This quick color makeover is so smart! (@ Small Notebook)

Amy's Notebook 02.12.09

Due to the MomAdvice Simplified podcast airing on Thursdays, I am going to be moving our Notebook Entry and Notebook Experiments to Wednesdays instead. I hope you will understand and will come back on Wednesday for these entries. Thank you so much for your patience!

I am loving this round-up of printable Valentines (@ the long thread)

These Mexican tissue paper flowers are amazing (@ Pink Paper Peppermints)

This waffle recipe looks delicious and healthy (@ Sew Liberated)

These ribbon flowers are stunning (@ Etsy)

I want to try this no-knead pizza dough (@ The Wednesday Chef)

This heartfelt memory game would be a hit with my children (@ scrumdilly-do)

These cinnamon rolls look absolutely delicious (@ inside a black apple)

These sewn paper Valentines are beautiful (@ the purl bee)

I want to make this knitted French Press cozy (@ design sponge)

This Oreo Cake looks like it is to die for! (@ The Kitchn)

These dough conversation hearts are so cute (@ Kiddio)

Here is another great recipe for pizza dough (@ Day by Day)

Amy's Notebook 01.22.09

I am loving these photography tips for taking great photos of your kids (@ Make & Takes)

I may have to start trying to cook artisan bread again (@ house on hill road)

This chicken & wild rice soup looks delicious (@ Home Ec 101)

I am loving this little indoor swing and I love these loft beds for space saving (@ Ohdeedoh)

I really love this office tour and the organization solutions in this space (@ {A})

These knitted Mary Jane slippers are adorable (@ sew nancy)

These oatmeal streusel cookies look so delicious (@ Baking Bites)

I want to try this any way coffee cake for my next get together (@ Joy the Baker)

This light chicken parmesan recipe looks yummy (@ The Kitchn)

My kids would think I was the coolest mom in the world if I made them this rainbow cake (@ Omnomicon)

These spice jar labels are so cute (@ Craft Leftovers)

This knitted owl sweater is simply amazing (@ needled)

I love these ideas for reinventing the soup can (@ the long thread)

This is such a cute idea- doing family interviews with each other (@ Small Notebook)

I also love these ideas for preserving family memories (@ Scribbit)

These candy cane hearts would be a great way to use up candy canes leftover from Christmas (@ Skip to My Lou)

This flat bread and hummus look like a yummy treat (@ Your Homebased Mom)

I want to try this copycat recipe for Starbucks Coffee Cake (@ Divine Domesticity)

Amy's Notebook 01.15.09

I love this idea for making thank you notes (@ dooleh-vay)

This cupcake garland is such a sweet little idea (@ petunia)

I am loving these little party hats (@ hot diggity blog)

This spaghetti & meatballs recipe sounds delicious (@ shelterrific)

I am going to have to try some of these recipes for homemade cleaners (@ Jolly Mom)

This post-it calendar is really cute and I adore these handmade headbands (@ Design Mom)

These oatmeal blueberry applesauce muffins look like they would hit the spot (@ Joy the Baker)

We are going to have an inside snow adventure at our house (@ the homespun heart)

This coffee cup cozy is such a great little gift (@ house on hill road)

This craft desk makeover really rocks (@ design sponge)

These handmade gifts are beautiful (@ Soule Mama)

I like this tutorial for copyrighting your photos (@ Chocolate on My Cranium)

These little cupcake flower arrangements are adorable (@ inspired ideas)

I want to try this pattern for this knitted chevron scarf (@ do stuff)

I am going to make these peanut butter energy bars (@ The Farm Chicks)

This peanut butter swirl banana bread looks like an interesting combination (@ Baking Bites)

I am loving these tips for a dinner party that is under $100 (@ the adventures of penny plastic)

I am going to have to try some of these recipes for overnight yeast waffles (@ The Kitchn)

This is a great little pattern for a child's apron (@ Sew Liberated)

Amy's Notebook 12.11.08

I apologize- I made a mistake on the ending dates of our Sony & Scotts giveaways. These are open until 12/16 as all our giveaways typically run one week. Please be sure to visit our apron full of giveaways for a ton great contests to enter. Many apologies for the confusion I may have caused!

Something that I hopefully did right was completing my first article for the Right@Home website. I will be guest blogging over the next couple of months about fun activities and crafty ideas to do with your children. Please visit my new articles here!

Enjoy the link list today!

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I am making note of all of these great holiday gift wrapping ideas for the holidays (@ Design Sponge)

This little advent village is adorable (@ Salt & Chocolate)

I would love to try knitting these snowflake mittens (@ Meg Kandis)

These snowy pinecones would make a lovely & frugal centerpiece (@ flipflops & applesauce)

I love this Memory game idea using real memories (@ ohdeedoh)

I think the kids and I would have fun making these cinnamon ornaments (@ sycamore stirrings)

I love these little calendars made with sunprints (@ make grow gather)

These painted holiday ornaments would be fun to do with my kiddos (@ little momma and co.)

This kitchen playmat is so cute and fun (@ ohdeedoh)

I want to try these peanut butter fudge treats (@ Joy the Baker)

These chicken and dumplings remind me of dinners with my great-grandmother (@ Simply Recipes)

I love this glass ball wreath and want to make one for my door (@ TidyMom)

This magnetic advent calendar is darling (@ Remodeling This Life)

I love this pinecone wreath too (@ A Soft Place to Land)

This Christmas Card puzzle game is so inventive (@ Let's Explore)

Don't these homemade graham crackers look delicious? (@ plum pudding)

This homemade vanilla extract and spiced nuts look like great gifts to give (@ Design Mom)

Cookie logs would make great gifts to give (@ Make & Takes)

Amy's Notebook 12.04.08

This week's notebook experiment will still be on hiatus since I am working on our Big Give and I need to get everything organized and ready for that. I promise to be back to it next week.

In the meantime, did you see the amazing giveaways we are offering? I think you might like to enter to win:

Harry Potter Anniversary Edition Box Set
$500 Walmart Gift Card

We also have a new article added to our website this month. This one is just in time for the holiday season:

A Shift Towards Tradition

Happy browsing today!
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I love this advent calendar made from things in your recycle bin (@ craftastica)

I love these little holiday barrettes made from leftover fabric (@ Crafty Stylish)

These cinnamon stick votives would be wonderful for the holidays or these yarn filled ornaments to get rid of the yarny leftovers in your stash (@ DIY Maven)

These shortbread cookies look delicious (@ jane's apron)

This little bird advent calendar is so lovely and unique (@ Skip to My Lou)

I love this eco-friendly gift topper (@ Creature Comforts)

These thrifted holiday trees would be a wonderful decoration (@ the long thread)

I love this tutorial on how to hang that holiday wreath (@ Nesting Place)

These fifty ways to kill a Twinkie made me laugh out loud... repeatedly (@ Cakespy)

I adore this holiday gift guide (@ Baking and Books)

I want to try these buttermilk pancakes (@ Serious Eats)

These pumpkin cupcakes look heavenly (@ Smitten Kitchen)

This mug of hot chocolate cake sounds delicious (@ Remodeling this Life)

I love this frugal gift guide for holiday giving (@ Frugal Dad)

I am going to be checking this site often for the holidays (@ Tip Nut)

I love this idea for gift wrapping with fonts (@ bugs and fishes by lupin)

I might have to add some of these ideas for advent activities to my Christmas Jar (@ We Are That Family)

I really like this use for cookie cutters (@ Pepper Paints)

I could make some of these vintage game magnets (@ ohdeedoh)

I love this creative tree topper (@ Grace Violet)

I really like these tater-stamped kitchen curtains (@ Craftzine)

Amy's Notebook 11.20.08

I just love this uniquely different handprint turkey (@ Bella Dia)

This aromatic garland would really make a statement (@ Skip to My Lou)

I bet my children would love Cheerios marshmallow treats (@ Let's Explore)

These baby mocs are the cutest things ever (@ The Purl Bee)

These acorn magnets are really wonderful for fall (@ Make & Takes)

I am trying to work on conquering my clutter (@ zenhabits)

This is a great round-up of bag, pouches, & purses (@ whip up)

I want to try these cheese muffins (@ The Pioneer Woman Cooks)

I love this round-up of knitting tips & tricks (@ down to earth)

I am going to have to use these tips for the perfect Thanksgiving turkey since this is my first year hosting (@ dinner tonight)

I love this list of homemade gifts (@ Storybook Woods)

I love these tips for raising thankful children (@ Parent Dish)

I will have to try this recipe for DIY instant oatmeal (@ The Kitchn)

I want to make these Oreo Turkey Cookies (@ Flickr)

I want to knit some slippers (@ Salt and Chocolate)

These pumpkin muffins would be a hit in our house (@ plumpudding)

These tiny birthday cakes would be a cute idea for my daughter's birthday party (@ Chocolate on My Cranium)

I love this round-up of holiday gift ideas (@ not martha)

Amy's Notebook 11.13.08

I am loving this bag made out of plastic bags (@ Coco Knits)

This flower garland made from catalogs would be festive in greens & reds for the holidays (@ zakka life)

Another great recycling project, a mobile made from cereal boxes (@ plumpudding)

These binder clips are adorable (@ jane's apron)

I love these pressed leaves to decorate the house for fall (@ Make & Takes)

This slow cooker breakfast casserole would be great for a morning brunch with friends (@ 4 Reluctant Entertainers)

I love this article on Thanksgiving desserts that freeze well (@ NY Times)

I want to try this silky smooth pumpkin pie (@ Smitten Kitchen)

I would also love to try this pumpkin chiffon cake (@ Baking Bites)

This monogrammed wreath would really make a statement on my door (@ Purple Lemon Designs)

This recipe for fluffy pumpkin pie sounds so interesting (@ Divine Domesticity)

This classic apple pie sounds delicious (@ The Kitchn)

Amy's Notebook 11.06.08

These patriotic cookies are so neat (@ Pepper Paints)

I love the idea of starting a parent journal (@ Camp Creek Blog)

I am loving these fingerless gloves (@ Purl Bee)

I loved this post on recycling your pumpkins (@ Junk Mail Gems)

I think these Thanks & Giving trees would be a hit in our house (@ Chocolate on My Cranium)

I want to try this sugar cookie recipe (@ Skip to My Lou)

I love these tips for maximizing your kitchen space (@ Smitten Kitchen)

I want to attempt making a pie crust (@ The Kitchn)

This all-purpose holiday cake looks delicious (@ Joy the Baker)

This pumpkin bread pudding would be a fun dish to entertain with (@ Genesis of a Cook)

I might have to try these spiced pumpkin pancakes (@ Baking and Books)

Amy's Notebook 10.30.08

I hope you enjoy today's notebook and just wanted to highlight a few quick articles that might help you with your Halloween planning this week:

Scary Deals on Halloween Costumes (we have included recipes for Halloween face paints)
Oh, Glorious Pumpkin! (don't toss your pumpkin and try making some homemade pumpkin puree this year)
Activities Search (use our search function to find all the fun places to visit in your area)

Now on to our very official notebook...

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Another great refashioned cardigan idea (@ Early Bird Special)

These little mummy treat containers are so cute (@ Skip To My Lou)

I love this little pumpkin party (@ chica schmica)

This playroom makeover is amazing and I am loving the duvet cover (@ whatever)

This chalkboard pumpkin would be a cute little craft to do (@ The Crafty Crow)

I am loving these knitted cowls (@ What's That Gonna Be?)

I am downloading this great little pdf for getting your kids to eat their veggies (@ Let's Explore)

I want to make this Halloween wreath for next year (@ Scribbit)

These pumpkin pecan chocolate chunk cookies look like a winner to me (@ Bakerella)

These knitted slippers would keep my feet warm this winter (@ Astrid Knits Her Way Out)

These autumn leaf pies are so beautiful (@ not martha)

I need to work on being more productive with my emailing (@ Simple Mom)

I want to try making these confetti cupcakes (@ Coconut & Lime)

I love these ideas for staying warm through the autumn weather (@ Wisebread)

I am bookmarking these ideas for ways to use the internet while on vacation (@ Digital Bliss)

Amy's Notebook 10.23.08

These tagged baskets are adorable (@ Soule Mama)

I love this cooking birthday party theme (@ sweet fine day)

My son would love decorating spooky houses (@ little momma & company)

I wonder if my kids would notice the peels if I made those no-peel apple cake (@ 4 Reluctant Entertainers)

These pumpkin swirl brownies would be a fun fall treat (@ Smitten Kitchen)

This pumpkin pie fudge would make a nice addition to my holiday gift-giving list (@ Annie's Eats)

Using the apple corer to fill cupcakes is a brilliant idea (@ The Kitchn)

I am really intrigued by this turkey burger recipe (@ Serious Eats)

This cereal box matching game would be fun for the kids (@ plum pudding)

I loved this article on how to brew coffee in your hotel room (@ Budget Travel)

This pumpkin cheesecake would be a great Thanksgiving treat (@ Baking and Books)

I want to make a tutu for Emily to play dress-up in (@ Problem Solvin' Mom)

These heart-shaped magnets are so precious (@ flipflops & applesauce)

I need to learn how to crochet so I can make this washcloth (@ Crafty Leftovers)

These pumpkins made from photographs are so cool (@ Photojojo)

This bathmat made from rags is really amazing looking (@ Coco Knits)

I love these ideas for a pumpkin party (@ Let's Explore)

Amy's Notebook 10.16.08

I arrived back in town last night after a fun trip to California! I have so much to share with all of you and promise to do that really soon. Today I am suffering from jet lag and a bad case of exhaustion with an overflowing amount of work to do. I hope to be back in the swing of things soon. Until then, here is a picture of the Hollywood sign that we took after hiking it up to see it. I had the absolute best time and made some really great new blogging friends. I promise to share it all soon!

Since I am tired, I will skip the notebook experiment for this week, but we will be to our regular schedule next week!

I need to look through this Halloween round-up over here (@ Parent Hacks)

Have you ever heard of a dog poop composter? Very interesting! (@ shelterrific)

These chalkboard doors would be so nice in a guest room (@ Daily Danny)

This post on your life's passions really got me thinking (@ my happy little life)

I love this secret reading room (@ Nesting Place)

These photo card ideas are so brilliant (@ Chica Schmica)

This birdy snack shack is too cute (@ design sponge)

This light minestrone recipe looks like a winner for my lunches (@ Lost Button Studio)

I am hungry for caramel apples after seeing this post (@ 101 Cookbooks)

These cat cupcakes are adorable (@ Serious Eats)

This fishbowl pumpkin would be a cute little Halloween project (@ Bella Dia)

Amy's Notebook 10.09.08

I love this charging basket (@ oh, fransson!)

These are some cute knitting & crocheting projects for Halloween (@ whip up)

It would be great to make some of my own boxes for our gift cards this year (@ Craft Leftovers)

This recycled scarf blanket is so cute (@ Daily Danny)

These pumpkin muffins look like they would hit the spot (@ flipflops & applesauce)

I am making some of this pumpkin spice cream cheese for my bagels (@ Pinch My Salt)

This candy corn hat is hiliarious (@ Material Whirled)

These paper pumpkin ornaments would be a great craft to do with the kids (@ Hostess with the Mostess)

These paper fortune cookies would make a fun addition to a gift (@ ohdeedoh)

These fall leaf rubbings would be fun to do together (@ maya made)

I love these thrifty Halloween decor ideas (@ Today's Creative Blog)

When I master knitting in the round I want to make this beautifully knitted hat (@ Soule Mama)

This idea for pounding golf tees into a pumpkin is so smart (@ Wondertime)

I love these ideas for handmade Christmas gifts (@ Handmade Homeschool)

These quick rolls would be great for weeknight meals (@ My Wooden Spoon)

This pumpkin cornbread would be so yummy with a big bowl of soup (@ The Recipe Girl)

Amy's Notebook 10.02.08

I am loving this little study center (@ ohdeedoh)

I love these fringed flowers on notecards (@ craftstylish)

This kid's art smock is the cutest thing ever (@ Don't Look Now)

This dressed-up vase & reminder to personalize gifts is really good (@ Grace Violet)

These oven mitts would make a wonderful hostess gift for Christmas (@ Skip to My Lou)

I am going to have to do this puppet show theater with the kids (@ Crafty Daisies)

These photo letter frames would make the coolest Christmas gift (@ Michelle's Messy Musings)

These Curious George Cupcakes would be so cute for a birthday party (@ justJenn recipes)

I would love to make a game with my son (@ SouleMama)

This chocolate chip pudding cake sounds divine (@ jane's apron)

This Halloween bag is the cutest thing ever (@ Scribbit)

I love this sweet idea for relieving preschool anxiety (@ Parent Hacks)

It is official- I am now craving this chocolate pie (@ Homesick Texan)

I want to try this pumpkin spice granola (@ Annie's Eats)

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We started a new giveaway this week for $25 gift cards to Shutterfly! This contest is to help promote their new Share Site service where you can create a free site for your family and share your pictures through their website. Head over here to enter today to win!

Enter today to win a 10th Anniversary Harry Potter prize pack. We are giving away beautiful boxed sets of the Harry Potter series and the new anniversary editions of, "Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone" Please do not enter here, only entries over here will qualify.

Good luck, everyone!

Amy's Notebook 09.25.08

I am going to have to work on some silhouettes of the kids (@ The Homespun Heart)

I must knit a pumpkin hat (@ Crazy Aunt Purl)

I think it would be fun to make a shopping bag from an old pillowcase (@ Psych Mamma)

This skillet baked cookie looks delicious (@ a tad bit prudish)

I am looking forward to following this paper pile makeover (@ Small Notebook)

It is never too early to start thinking about a cool Advent calendar for this year (@ Tatertots & Jello)

These burp cloths are darling (@ Paper Dolly Girl)

I love these window shade ideas (@ DIY Maven)

My daughter would love these doll diapers (@ Skip to My Lou)

I really like these cupcake decorating tips (@ Chica & Jo)

This reuse of the crib mattress is brilliant (@ ohdeedoh)

I want to make this color book (@ Make and Takes)

I want to try making applesauce in my slow cooker so I can smell it all day long (@ A Year of Crockpotting)

These Kermit cupcakes are adorable (Flickr via Craftzine)

This tomato sauce sounds like a winner (@ Soule Mama)

This candy cane sugar scrub would make a wonderful Christmas gift (@ The Natural Beauty Workshop)

I love this on-the-go knit kit made from a water bottle (@ Suite.Living)

These painted white pumpkins would really dress up my doorstep (@ A Soft Place to Land)

I love these mittens made from an old sweater (@ zakka life)

These brown sugar cupcakes would really hit the sweet spot (@ My Sweet & Saucy)

Who could resist this Chicken Parmesan recipe? (@ Divine Domesticity)

Amy's Notebook 09.18.08

These baked apples look delicious (@ little momma & co.)

I love this idea for creating your own crazy yarn (@ Craftzine)

This scarf made from thrifted goodies is so beautiful (@ Wise Craft)

I want to make some of these day of the week folders (@ design sponge)

I love this little round-up of bookmark ideas (@ Skip to My Lou)

These popcorn balls look like a fun fall treat (@ elsie marley)

These child's art smocks would be very handy for messy crafts in our house (@ zakka life)

I want to make clothespin dolls with my daughter someday (@ plumpudding)

I love this memory jar idea (@ ohdeedoh)

These custom silhouette t-shirt would make a fabulous gift or fashion statement (@ Inhabitots)

This purse made from a sweater makes me want to get acquainted with my sewing machine (@ cindygert)

We aren't in Netflix anymore, but I am loving this Netflix origami (@ swiss miss)

I am loving these baby shower decorations (@ Thompson Family-Life)

This fresh apple cake with caramel glaze looks sinful (@ Wise Craft)

These felted pictures look like a fun craft for the advanced crafters (@ One Crafty Mumma)

I love these ideas for freezing potatoes (@ Organizing Connection)

Vapor rub on pantiliners hack- only inventive parents could think of this (@ Parent Hacks)

Loved looking through the Knitty Fall '08 patterns (@ Knitty)

I adore this fence with alternating board lengths (@ shelterrific)

This is a great recipe round-up of homemade pet treats (@ The Kitchn)

I love these tips for making good bread (@ Smitten Kitchen)

This creamy parmesan orzo looks delicious (@ Cheap Healthy Good)

These butterfly cupcakes are so sweet (@ My Wooden Spoon)

Amy's Notebook 09.11.08

Did you miss my notebook last week? Please say yes! Here she is back in her full glory again, with a fresh new set of linky loving for my sweet blogging friends!

Remember anything that you like out of the notebook can be added to our notebook experiments section each Thursday! Happy reading!



These homemade peanut butter cups look delicious (@ Have Cake, Will Travel)

I love these necktie glasses cases (@ Craftzine)

This chocolate mint icebox cake looks like it is to die for (@ Divine Domesticity)

I am loving this newspaper bunting (@ maya made)

I had never heard of this site where you could find local yarn shops (@ Craftzine)

I love this rug made out of a tea towel (@ knick knacks & ric rac)

I want to give this pumpkin spice latte recipe a try (@ Baking & Books)

I really love this little cupcake stand (@ Once Wed)

I am loving these felted rocks (@ resurrection fern)

I am always up for trying another banana bread recipe (@ Posie Gets Cozy)

I have wanted to know how to recycle yarn from sweaters and this post helped so much (@ Craft Leftovers)

I like these tips for seasoning your cast iron skillet (@ Joy the Baker)

I am going to have to keep my eyes peeled for a funnel pitcher for our house (@ Baking Bites)

This chocolate chunk coffee cake looks amazing (@ Genesis of a Cook)

These brownies in a mug might be a fun dessert when we are entertaining (@ A Year of Crockpotting)

I want to try tie dying shirts with the kids one day (@ Motherhood for Dummies)

I loved this post on what is an appropriate food budget for a family of four (@ The Simple Dollar)

I love these little princess crowns and I know my daughter would too (@ The Homespun Heart)

I will now know what to do with the wooden boxes from the Melissa & Doug toys that the kids get for Christmas (@ Parent Hacks)

I love this dinosaur feet craft (@ Problem Solvin' Mom)

I have never tried cooking my rice this way, but I just might have to give this a shot (@ The Kitchn)

I love these fabric & button barrettes (@ belle & burger)

Amy's Notebook 08.21.08

I love this idea to get your kids mining to keep them busy (@ doobleh-vay)

I want to try Martha's peanut butter cookies (@ Mad About Martha)

I love these little crocheted slippers for a gift in a jiffy (@ My Longest Year)

I want to try this recipe for homemade watercolors (@ Dim Sum, Bagels, & Crawfish)

I had never heard of joining a yarn club before, but it sounds awfully addicting (@ whip up)

This breakfast muffin tin looks like a fun way to start the day (@ Muses of Megret)

These homemade breadsticks look like a fun addition to our spaghetti dinner (@ Chocolate on My Cranium)

I adore this idea for a tooth fairy jar and just might have to steal it (@ Lost Button Studio via The Crafty Crow)

Using an egg carton to carry mini-cupcakes will make taking treats to school a lot easier (@ shelterrific)

I love this idea for adding a lazy susan feature to our board games (@ The Small Object)

This is a great list of tips for purchasing a sewing machine (@ shelterrific)

I love this mudroom made from a closet (@ ohdeedoh)

I want to try this recipe for Pat's French Toast (@ 4 Reluctant Entertainers)

I hit my 30th birthday this year, but it is never too late to read this list of thirty books to read before you turn thirty (@ Marc & Angel Hack Life)

I needed this reminder to be more prepared for the emergency situations in life (@ The Homespun Heart)

These inexpensive art ideas might just get replicated over here! (@ Simple Mom)

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Amy's Notebook 08.14.08

I love this child's pool robe made from an old towel (@ Sew, Mama, Sew)

I am bookmarking these fun travel games for our next trip (@ ohdeedoh)

These peanut butter jars are such cute organizers (@ plumpudding)

This winter tree mural and tutorial is amazing (@ Waiting in the Capital)

I love this round-up of Olympic activities for the kids (@ Tip Junkie)

These white chocolate mochas would be a fun treat to share with friend (@ Baking Bites)

These ribbon hair clips would be so cute in my daughter's hair (@ the long thread)

I love this outlined placemat (@ ohdeedoh)

These thank you cards are such a cool idea (@ Let's Explore)

I would never think to use the slow cooker as a smoker (@ A Year of CrockPotting)

This tomato basil salad would be a great way to use up some of my tomatoes from my garden (@ 50's Housewife)

Amy's Notebook 08.07.08

This zebra cake would be a real crowd pleaser (@ Baking Bites)

I am loving this big boy room makeover (@ Mama K NJ)

I love these crocheted vases (@ My Lifetime via Craftzine)

Next year I want to grow enough tomatoes to can (@ The Artful Parent)

This sock monkey tutorial is great (@ Web Goddess)

This ragamuffin basket would look so cute in my daughter's room (@ A Soft Place to Land)

These apple stitched cards would make a great teacher gift (@ Make & Takes)

I had never seen making crayons in a large baking dish, but I might have to try this (@ Daily Danny)

I might be sprinkling some cinnamon in our sandbox this summer (@ Parent Hacks)

I love these frozen ice blocks and might have to do this one day with the kids (@ Pepper Paints)

This is a great post on how to budget your money (@ Organizing Connection)

We might have to do some Preschool Olympics here while watching the show (@ Let's Explore)

I really love this post office bag (@ elisie marley)

I still would love to try making soap sometime & these cupcake soaps are so cute (@ Soap Queen)

These felt crayon rolls would be a cute gift (@ Skip to My Lou)

My kids would love these homemade circus animal cookies (@ Vanilla Joy)

I love these fifty ways to have fun by yourself (@ The Simple Dollar)

These jam jar muffins would be a hit at any picnic (@ Cookbook Catchall)

Amy's Notebook 07.31.08

These newspaper party hats would be a fun craft to do with my daughter (@ Maya Made)

This rainy day rainbow would be a creative way to use up scrap paper (@ No time for flash cards)

I want to bookmark all of these new knitting projects (@ Knitty)

I want to attempt my first homemade pie crust (@ Saucy Eats)

We will have to put a hold on some of these kindergarten books at the library (@ Let's Explore)

These baby burp cloths would make a wonderful baby shower gift (@ Make & Takes)

These mini caramel apples would be a great snack for the kids (@ Flickr via Craftzine)

I am loving this sweet memory mobile (@ Polliwog's Cakewalk)

This crocheted wasp nest is such a great idea (@ Hankering for Yarn)

I want to try this recipe for buttermilk pancakes (@ shelterrific)

I am loving these tiny pinatas (@ not martha)

Here is another great example of what you can do with salad spinner painting (@ plum pudding)

This chalk paint looks like a winner for keeping the kids busy this summer (@ whatever)

I am going to have to remember this tip for how to relieve the mosquito bite itches (@ Parent Hacks)

I am really wanting to make some of these DIY dryer balls (@ Casa Sugar)

I want to try these gyros in the slow cooker (@ A Year of Crockpotting)

I love this use for old socks & it would be a fun craft to do with the kids too (@ DIY Maven)

This clay dough would be a great rainy day activity (@ Pepper Paints)

This pirate birthday party is such a cool theme (@ honeyflake via Crafty Crow)

I want to make some of these blueberry crumb bars or some of these blueberry pancakes (@ Smitten Kitchen)

I am hungry for ice cream sandwiches after seeing these (@ My Wooden Spoon)

I want to make this tic tac on the go box (@ Scribbit)

I am loving these iced coffee tips (@ The Kitchn)

Amy's Notebook 07.24.08

This is a great round-up of chore charts (@ Tip Junkie)

I am going to have to remember this formula for making a reusable ice pack (@ Home Ec 101)

This vanilla lemonade sounds refreshing & elegant (@ Inside a Black Apple)

We are going to have to try some of these ideas from this list of 100 things to do on a money free weekend (@ The Simple Dollar)

This idea for repurposing a bird bath is brilliant (@ Daily Danny)

I love this list of twenty fun craft ideas for July (@ Tip Nut)

I want to try making this foam-erator with my kids (@ betz white)

Knitting with rags sounds quite frugal (Coco Knits via Whip Up)

I think I could make these little pillows if I put a little effort into it (@ Sparkle Power)

I am loving these helpful transition tips for parents of kids entering kindergarten (@ Let's Explore)

This blueberry banana bread sounds like a winner for our family (@ Genesis of a Cook)

This Cool Whip and peanut butter dessert would be a great summer potluck dish (@ Bakerella)

These are some wonderful tips for taking the kiddos to the doctor (@ PsychMamma)

I want to make some of these NY Times perfect chocolate chip cookies with these changes (@ The Kitchn)

This recipe for sour cream scones sounds heavenly (@ Joy the Baker)

Amy's Notebook 07.17.08

I need to try making these flower cupcakes (@ My Sweet & Saucy)

I really like this five minute skirt tutorial (@ angry chicken)

I had never heard of BBQ chicken made with a white sauce (@ Serious Eats)

These banana crunch muffins look delicious (@ plumpudding)

If I could sew, I would make one of these fairy dresses (@ Wee Wonders)

I might have to take this baked french toast to our next potluck (@ Baking Bites)

I love these unique ideas for framing (@ Design Mom)

I think I might have to knit some of these ruby slippers (@ Frog in knots)

These paper pinwheels are so pretty (@ ohdeedoh)

This marinated tomatoes with linguine recipe would be great for my summer tomatoes (@ Serious Eats)

I love this tip for getting hair off the kids after a haircut. Can't wait to try it (@ Parent Hacks)

These light spiced blueberry muffins might be the ticket for a lower fat muffin for me (@ Cheap Healthy Good)

Someone else is overcoming their canning fears & a strawberry jam recipe (@ Paper Palate)

This oven fried chicken would be great for a picnic (@ Mad About Martha)

I love this tip for getting the corn off the cob (@ Simply Recipes)

This visual packing list for kids is genius (@ house on hill road)
Save Now

This farfalle with sausage, tomatoes, & cream would make a great weeknight dish (@ Paper Palate)

This list of summertime ideas is great for the grandparents (@ Grandparents)

Amy's Notebook 07.10.08

These strawberry yogurt pops look delicious (@ The Kitchn)

I am going to have to remember this idea for ways to decorate cupcakes for the Fourth of July (@ Inside A Black Apple)

We will have to make some pinwheels this summer (@ disdressed)

I want to try this recipe for these cinnamon scones (@ Meridian Ariel)

These oatmeal-butterscotch cookies would be a hit at our house (@ Baking Bites)

I love this list of places you can watch television for free (@ My Two Dollars)

I love these ideas for how to menu plan (@ Simple Mom)

This ice cream cake looks like a fun summer treat (@ 50s Housewife)

I really like these decoupaged letters (@ Grace Violet)

One of these days, I am going to get around to making some felt food (@ One Crafty Mumma)

Another really cool knitted sweater pattern (@ not martha)

I would like to try this recipe for faux Mrs. Field's Chocolate Chip Cookies (@ DIY Maven)

I want to try these frozen limeade slushies (@ Megret)

Another great knitting cause (@ Soule Mama)

I am going to have to make some of these other variations on Rice Krispie Treats (@ Make & Takes)

More fun dishcloth patterns and a tutorial on creating an embossed design (@ My Own Two Hands)

These spa pillows sound wonderful (@ Jane's Apron)

Amy's Notebook 07.03.08

I love this idea for keeping pests away in the garden without using harmful pesticides (@ Small Notebook)

These knitted tulip socks are so cute (@ The Purl Bee)

I didn't know about Sam's Club recycling your old electronic equipment- now I know what to do with our old stuff (@ Working Moms Against Guilt)

I love this idea for making your own liquid soap (@ CasaSugar)

I want to try making some bruschetta on the grill (@ Polliwog's Cakewalk)

This crocheted apple cozy is so cute (@ Sunnyside Ellen)

These mini chocolate cupcakes with cream cheese frosting look divine (@ Baking Bites)

I have never heard of using a salad spinner to make children's art (@ Brassy Apple)

This sewing machine cover tutorial is great (@ Not Nigella)

I want to make these Rice Krispies Cookies (@ plum pudding)

These terrariums are beautiful (@ sew nancy)

I like this idea for decoupaging a journal (@ Grace Violet)

I will have to remember these tips for flying with toddlers (@ PsychMamma)

This banana chocolate chip ice cream sounds delicious (@ An Accident of Hope)

I want to try this recipe for making glue (@ DIY Maven)

I love these little job jars (@ Make & Takes)

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A few new reviews, a new entry, and another article have been posted:

Gimos Kidswear
XFLOWSION Exercise DVD
RuMe Reusable Bags
Surviving the Grocery Hike
Word Games Rule

Amy's Notebook 06.26.08

Knock, knock... don't worry, it's just housekeeping! I have a couple quick things to share with you...

It has been awhile since I have done a giveaway for our site. I am happy to announce that I am giving away a lifetime membership to PearBudget, an amazing new website where you can track your family finances. Don't worry- you don't even have to give them access to your bank account. This is just a simple straightforward budget sheet that you can use to track your expenses. Head over there by Wednesday and leave me a comment (entries that are left here cannot be included).

While you are over there, you can see our latest review on the Sony HDR-SR10 Camcorder! You have not lived until you have zoomed into your cat's nose and watched it in high definition. Yes, this is the first project that my husband did with it...you know, just to see if the zoom was really that awesome. And it was. But...the cat's nose? Boys!

On to the entries!!

These coffee pops sound like the perfect mommy treat for summer (@ Yum Sugar)

I love this guide on what organic foods to splurge for (@ Cheap Healthy Good)

Here is another great tutorial for a fabric car organizer (@ Finny Knits)

These activities for things to do with dandelions sound like a blast (@ Let's Explore)

These make-ahead shakes sound delicious (@ Everyday Food Storage)

These felt needle holders are so sweet (@ One Crafty Mumma)

These mason jar lights are so beautiful (@ Design Sponge)

I love this birthday bunting tutorial (@ MilkMonkey)

This reminder to entertain at home was much needed- read the comments for meals on the fly (@ Like Merchant Ships)

These ideas for water balloon fun sounded like a blast (@ MommySecrets)

I want to try this lemonade recipe and I love her post on hospitality with littles this week (@ The Homespun Heart)

I love this idea to use craft foam in the bathtub (@ Plum Pudding)

I am going to have to try these potato packets on the grill (@ With All I've Been Given)

I want to try this beautiful baby blanket pattern (@ Frugal Upstate)

The kids and I are going to have to try to make this homemade butter (@ ohdeedoh)

This tutorial on joining fabric strips is amazing (@ laughing purple goldfish)

I am loving this idea for spray painting plates (@ A Soft Place to Land)

This camera strap is so cool (@ house on hill road)

Amy's Notebook 06.19.08

This pattern for a bath puffy is so cute (@ t does wool)

I want to try using some of these awesome play dough tips (@ Organizing Connection)

These BBQ Beef Sandwiches look delicious (@ Simply Recipes)

I loved this list of ways you can help the flood victims (@ The Simple Dollar

I love everything about this summer birthday party theme- the recipes are linked here (@ ToddleBits)

Creating a you are special day for your kids is such a cool idea (@ Chocolate on My Cranium)

These fun sponges would be a great activity to make and play with outside (@ betz white)

I want to try this cake mix with Sprite in it (@ Bakerella)

We are going to have to have a toasty fire pit night for the family (@ Make & Takes)

I think playing with and learning about maps might be a fun activity for my son to do (@ Let's Explore)

I adore this idea rolodex and have a zillion ideas to fill one up already (@ blah blah blog)

I want to try making this dishcloth pattern (@ homespun living)

I am loving the frugal food series and love the zillion things to do with eggs (@ Frugal Upstate)

I love this reminder to get rid of my clutter- a commitment for me this year (@ Small Notebook)

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Where else am I this week?

WSBT: Finding a Frugal Hobby
Blissfully Domestic: Chore Charts for Tweens
Frugal Hacks: Beach & Fun in the Sun Reads
Kenmore: Throw An Asian Inspired BBQ

Amy's Notebook 06.12.08

I love these ideas for organizing your digital photos (@ Small Notebook)

These are some great ideas for teacher gifts for next year (hat tip to Parent Hacks, @ Midwest Mom)

I want to make this chalk paint with the kids (@ The Library Collective)

I want to try these pies in a jar (@ not martha)

This homemade no-bake cheesecake sounds delicious (@ Everyday Food Storage & Preparedness)

I love these ideas for things to do with your kids before they grow up (@ mommysecrets)

This cheese bread looks so yummy (@ Scribbit)

I really like these dishtowel crafts (@ Tip Nut)

Now this is the way to celebrate National Donut Day (@ Skip to My Lou)

The first adult sweater I have ever wanted to knit is finally here (@ Flint Knits)

These homemade dishtowels are so cute (@ Motherhood for Dummies)

I love this Father's Day project (@ Havin' Fun Yet?)

These boo boo bags would be another great teacher appreciation gift (@ Crafty Daisies)

The cutest embroidery pattern ever (@ Pimp Stitch)

These little travel suitcases would be great for the kids (@ Blue Yonder)

I need to make some strawberry shortcake this summer (@ Posie Gets Cozy)

A busy day activity with cornstarch and water (@ Pepper Paints)

This round-up of marinades looks great for all our summer grilling (@ Cheap Healthy Good)

Amy's Notebook 06.05.08

This list of kid-friendly sites is incredible (@ Rocks in My Dryer)

These little traveling felt boards are too cute (@ Plum Pudding)

I love this acorn travel yarn holder (@ Craftzine)

I am loving this summer list (@ whatever)

These reversible headbands would really dress up my summer wardrobe (@ the long thread)

When I try my hand at embroidery, I want to try this Little Dutch Girl pattern (@ Badbirds)

These cupcake bath fizzies are the cutest things ever (@ Diary of a Crafty Chica)

This photo type case is stunning (@ A)

I want to try this recipe for grilled summer vegetables (@ Serious Eats)

These strawberry lemonade bars would be great for all the cookouts I go to or these vanilla cupcakes would make a sweet treat for myself (@ Baking Bites)

I love this knitted bunting pattern (hat tip to Craftzine @ Green Mountain Mama)

I am going to have to try these ice cream cupcakes (@ Joy the Baker)

Amy's Notebook 05.29.08

I want to try this homemade bubble solution (@ Sparkle Power)

This post on booties for babies made me a little misty-eyed, as the beautiful Soule Mama always does (@ Soule Mama)

These decorated lampshades would be a cool and easy project to do (@ design sponge)

These homemade fudgesicles sound delicious (@ Serious Eats)

I love this formula for disinfecting your sink in a green way (@ ohdeedoh)

I love this idea for using your child's artwork on a cake (@ Bakerella)

I want to try this recipe for good old-fashioned burgers (@ The Kitchn)

This scarf pattern looks like a fun one, but I would need some more needles (@ bag 'n' trash)

I love this idea for displaying your child's artwork (@ ohdeedoh)

This craft room makeover is fun and thrifty- part one, part two, part three (@ Storybook Woods)

I love this Baby Yeti sweater pattern (@ Berroco)

I really like this idea for organizing your child's artwork (@ maya made)

These framed pictures would make the cutest teacher gift and display my child's talents (@ the long thread)

I want to try this recipe for homemade caramel corn (@ Sew Liberated)

This recipe for lemon squares will have to be tried in our house (@ Polliwog's Cakewalk)

I am loving this birthday theme and the ideas for the favors- perfect for my summer birthday for Ethan (@ Thompson Family-Life)

These ideas for practicing our writing are excellent (@ Blue Yonder)

This idea for blowing bubbles in the car is incredibly inventive (@ Parent Hacks)

I want to try this recipe for homemade soft pretzels (@ Pepper Paints)

I love my Dr. Scholl's sandals so I was excited to see these ideas for embellishing sandals (@ Mad About Martha)

This pattern for a baby blanket looks super cute and easy (@ Purl Bee)

I love these email cards and they would be perfect for all of these birthdays coming up (@ Make & Takes)

These honey bars sound delicious (@ Grace Violet)

Amy's Notebook 05.22.08

I want to make this Honey Wheat Bread and Better Butter (@ More Than Survival, Choosing a Simple Life)

This recipe for Moroccan Spiced Chicken Breasts would be great for our summer grilling (@ Simply Recipes)

These recycled cake stands will be great for summer entertaining (@ Design Sponge)

I also want to try grilling some pizzas this summer (@ Paper Palate)

I would never think to use a cream whipper for making dishes lighter (@ Serious Eats)

I love these ideas for protecting seedlings in pop bottles (@ The Kitchn)

Another pizza crust recipe that I can try (@ Home Ec 101)

I love the idea of sharing a day at the wholesale club with a friend (@ 4 Reluctant Entertainers)

These photo coasters would be a great gift for the grandparents (@ Coffee Pot People courtesy of Crafzine)

These tips for washing the car are fabulous- this is a definite on my to-do list (@ Gather Little by Little)

When I figure out how to embroider, I am making these little tin can covers (@ elsie marley)

This cocoa coconut granola sounds delicious (@ Everybody Likes Sandwiches)

This baby onsie pillow would be a wonderful memento from our baby years (@ ohdeedoh)

I love this idea for celebrating your children sleeping through the night (@ The Homespun Heart)

I want to try these play dough cookies (@ The Loria Family Dialogues)

I love these tips for creating a morning routine (@ simple mom)

This list of summer activities for $1 or less is great (@ Baby Cheapskate)

Amy's Notebook 05.15.08

I love these ideas for throwing a double birthday party and think I might make the daisies for Emily's next birthday (@ Very Merry Events)

Speaking of cupcakes, these little cupcake bites look sinfully delicious (@ Bakerella)

These flower pot treats are about the cutest darn thing I have ever seen (@ The Pioneer Woman Cooks)

I love these ideas for making a Sunday dinner special again (@ The Homespun Heart)

This housewarming basket is beautiful- I am going to be using her coffee filter idea (@ Like Merchant Ships)

This ride-on toy makeover is amazing (@ Ohdeedoh)

I want to try these whole wheat buttermilk pancakes (@ Cheap Healthy Good)

I love this idea for forming a support group to get stuff done around the house (@ i am bossy)

I want to make this oilcloth lunch bag (@ Skip to My Lou)

I love these directions for cooking brown rice (@ angry chicken)

I adore this recycled bird feeder (@ Daily Danny)

I will have to plant some of these low-maintenance perennials (@ Unclutterer)

I am going to have to do some of these ideas for making a fun baking day with the kids (@ Megret)

These easy no sew draperies are so cute (@ Blissfully Domestic)

I want to try knitting these wedding washcloths (@ The Purl Bee)

We are going to try some of these recipes for homemade art supplies (@ DIY Maven)

Another fun rainy day activity, making rainsticks and eating some of these pop up pancakes (@ Make & Takes)

This creamy spinach rigatoni sounds delicious (@ Motherhood for Dummies)

I love this post on the hidden side of our stuff (@ Think Simple Now)

The kids & I are going to need to do this painting project (@ The Artful Parent)

I want to try this buttercream icing recipe soon (@ Mad About Martha)

I need to make a copy of this free scarf pattern (@ Vickie Howell)

I really needed this reminder to be different (@ Down to Earth)

Amy's Notebook 05.08.08

I love these ideas for what to do with all your children's art (@ Design Mom)

I really like these DIY headboard ideas (@ DIY Maven)

I want to try this recipe for garlic & soy chicken thighs (@ Home Ec 101)

This is a great tutorial for taking measurements when sewing (@ Sew Mama Sew)

I love these tips for a beginner in organic gardening (@ Mad About Martha)

I am going to have to try this recipe for idiot margaritas (@ Jane's Apron)

This is a great little apron tutorial (@ The Feathered Nest)

This is a great comprehensive list of creative container gardening ideas (@ Tip Nut)

This hat embellishment is so beautiful (@ Berlin's Whimsy)

When I get the hang of this knitting thing, I will have to try these patterns for knitting fruit and vegetables (@ Bleu Arts)

These newborn hats are adorable (@ Rookie Moms)

I love this post on the importance of commenting on blogs- hint, hint for my sweet and lovely readers (@ i should be folding laundry)

This lemon poppy seed cake looks delicious- I heart her bundt pan (@ The Long Thread)

I really love these reusable sandwich wraps (@ The Small Object)

Making grocery lists with the kids looks like it might be the perfect rainy day activity (@ Plum Pudding)

These DIY flannel boards would be a fun project to do with the kids (@ Scribbit)

This little nature craft would also be something great to do using items from our garden (@ Write, Mama, Write)

These baby shower cupcakes are so cute and I love the idea for making the shavings on top (@ Notes from a Cottage Industry)

I am loving this discussion on toy storage and how to control the clutter (@ I'm An Organizing Junkie)

Amy's Notebook

This teacher appreciation idea is so precious! (@ Skip to My Lou)

I love these little embroidered aprons (@ The Loria Family Dialogues)

Did I mention I want to try my hand at embroidery? I think these free patterns for day-of-the-week dishtowels would make a fun little project for me (@ Posie Gets Cozy)

These whole wheat sourdough bagels look divine (@ The Lazy Organizer)

I adore this little tin can pin cushion (@ Design Sponge)

If Hannah Montana is still cool, I will have to remember this post for how to throw a cheap Hanna Montana birthday party (@ Frugal Upstate)

I love these ideas for having a television free summer (@ Wisebread)

Another refashioned sweater that I am adoring (@ One Pearl Button)

These cute little garlands are so sweet (@ Nesting Place)

These monogrammed and personalized shirts are precious! (@ Polliwog's Cakewalk)

I love these baby blocks made from recycled packaging (@ Ohdeedoh)

Peanut butter cupcakes? Say no more! (@ The Lylah Blog)

I love this half-hour kid's summer quilt project (@ Crafty Daisies)

I have always been scared to purchase an orchid so I loved these tips for caring for orchids (@ Pleasant View Schoolhouse)

These little key rings would make a perfect gift (@ Ric Rac)

These ribbon valances would be so cute in my daughter's "big girl" room (@ Blissfully Domestic)

This is one of the most amazing photos I have ever seen, oh and did I mention she is my FRIEND- you will see why I am bragging when you see this (@ What Works For Us)

A great knitting tip for the more advanced knitter (also known as not me), using hair clips to help with seaming (@ Not Martha)

I like these cute little homemade oilcloth placemats (@ Make:Grow:Gather)

Amy's Notebook 04.24.08

This kitchen stool idea is so cute (@ Daily Danny)

I bet my children would love this banana bread (@ ljcblog)

This gak recipe would be a great project for me to do with the kids on a rainy day (@ pollywog's cakewalk)

This chicken and broccoli casserole sounds so yummy (@ Divine Domesticity)

I want to try making sourdough bread (@ The Kitchn)

When the kids get a little older, I want to try geocaching (@ Skip to My Lou)

These vintage potholders are so stinking cute (@ Design Sponge)

This is a great tutorial on making your own custom blend laundry detergent (@ Be It Ever So Humble)

I want to make some of this rainbow Jell-O (@ Do Better)

This is such an inventive kitchen makeover (@ Brownie Points)

I love this list of knitting resources (@ Looking Towards Heaven)

This is a great guide to starting your seeds indoors (@ Scribbit)

Here is a great round-up of menu planning resources (@ I'm an organizing junkie)

I want to make these nature cans with the kids (@ Plum Pudding)

I love these shaving cream art project ideas (@ Design Mom)

Amy's Notebook 04.17.08

This sewing bag is so cute (@ Mackville Road)

Aren't these aprons made from hankies darling? (@ An Apron A Day)

The book-lover in me hearts this bag made from a book (@ Curbly Video)

Another great way to use a fitted sheet- protecting your coffee table for crafting (@ Parent Hacks)

This is a great way to make a thrifted sweater really cute (@ Crafty Pod)

This looks like a great rainy day snack (@ Plum Pudding)

I love these patchwork balls (@ Little Birdie Stiches)

I think this tooth fairy pillow is just precious (@ Loria Family Dialogues)

I love this post on gaining perspective on our financial situations (@ Looking Towards Heaven)

These little pizza rolls look so delicious (@ Be It Ever So Humble)

I adore this hooded baby blanket (@ The Thrifty Knitter)

I am going to have to remember these boredom busters the next time we have a yucky day outside (@ Megret, hat tip to Baby Toolkit for the great find!)

I am going to have to remember this t-shirt shrink down post when I find t-shirts at the thrift store (The Sewing Republic)

This is another cute suitcase idea for the little artist in your family (@ Jane's Apron)

This is a great tutorial on gathering (@ Craft Apple)

This little garden party apron tutorial is great (@ i have to say)

I am going to have to make some of this homemade magic shell for the kids this summer (@ Brownie Points)

I adore these wrap skirts and how cute & flirty they are (@ Craftster)

These homemade body scrubs would make wonderful holiday gifts for teachers (@ Angry Chicken)

I am going to have to check out some of these spring reads for the kids (@ Soule Mama)

We plan to make Earth Day a family day in our house (@ Blissfully Domestic)

I love this homemade art work (@ The Simple Mom)

A great list of links for an organized craft room (@ The Lazy Organizer)

More ideas for cheaper shipping (@ Wise Bread)

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We are offering another giveaway for our readers on The MotherLoot! Check out our Nick Jr giveaway sponsored by Parents Connect!

Amy's Notebook 04.10.08

This might be a fun thing to try with the kids- making peanut butter. (@ Jump Up and Down)

I love these instructions on making a unique diaper cake with a little booze in the middle. (@ Alpha Mom)

I would never think to make my own squeeze bottle of jelly. (@ Home Ec 101)

I like this tip for taking notes while on the phone. (@ Parent Hacks)

I love these tips for taking better photos for eBay. (@ Photojojo)

Ceiling tiles for an art canvas is such a smart idea and so is this shoe rack as a modern looking shelf (@ DIY Maven)

I love this tutorial for making your own rubber (or should I say foam?) stamps. (@ Sew-Mad)

I like this idea for keeping kids busy. (@ Write Mama Write)

I love these ribbon headbands especially since I have all the supplies I need. (@ Chocolate On My Cranium)

This carrot cake and party theme is so stinking cute. (@ Plum Pudding)

This broccoli & feta pasta would be so yummy for my lunch. (@ The Kitchn)

I still need to make my own laundry detergent. (@ The Simple Dollar)

I am going to have to remember these Easy Bake Oven recipes when Emily gets a little older (@ Baby Toolkit)

Amy's Notebook 04.05.08

I love these tips on using cast iron skillets (@ Allie's Green Answers)

I love this piece on teaching our children about the presidential election (@ BlogHer courtesy of Shannon)

I love these cute labels for homemade cleaners- definitely makes going green more fun (@ The Worsted Witch)

I am going to have to remember these tips for shipping care packages (@ Saving Advice)

I love these ideas for doing a birthday party scavenger hunt (@ Frugal Hacks courtesy of the Deputy Headmistress)

Here is some more information on getting your television converter box (@ Wisebread)

These soft chocolate chip cookies sound good (@ Jane's Apron)

I liked these tips for using a seam ripper (@ Purl Bee)

I am going to have to make some of this puff paint with my kids (One Crafty Mumma)

I love this idea for a hair iron cozy made from oven mitts (@ Craftster)

I like this idea of using peanut butter jars for storage (@ Plum Pudding)

I had not heard about this issue with Redbox- be sure to read this if you use a Redbox (@ Clever Dude)

I like these tips for spring cleaning your personal finances (@ The Frugal Duchess)

I love this pattern for a ruffled apron (@ Blissfully Domestic)

I want to try this sugar cookie recipe (@ Divine Domesticity)

I love this idea for indoor hopscotch! (@ Ohdeedoh)

This is such a great idea- homemade reusable tea bags (@ Craft Leftovers)

Amy's Notebook 03.27.08

I want to try some of these homemade car cleaning products (@ Gather Little By Little)

I love these frugal Spring Break activities you could do at home (@ Frugal Dad)

This strawberry pie recipe sounds delicious (@ Cake Maker to the Stars)

I love online tutorials- here is one on applying bias tape using your sewing machine (@ Angry Chicken)

This table re-do is too cute- I love the bows at the end (@ Notes from a Cottage Industry)

I love this extra long curtain rod and the look it brings to a room (@ Shelterrific)

I want to try these oatmeal waffles (@ With All I've Been Given)

I am going to make these blueberry muffins (@ The Loria Family Dialogues)

I like these tips for making your own colored sugars (@ The Kitchn)

These buttery cocoa wafers look delicious too (@ Looking Towards Heaven)

This vintage pillowcase lunch bag is the cutest thing ever (@ Oh, Frasson)

I love this paper scroll table and so would my children (@ ohdeedoh)

These are some cute teacher appreciation ideas (@ Skip to My Lou )

This is providing some much needed organization inspiration to our playroom space (@ Nesting Place)

I love this idea for making nature journals (@ Chocolate On My Cranium)

I am breaking out the whisk at bath time (@ Parent Hacks)

Looks like an old-school tuna melt or a grilled portebello sandwich for me for lunch next week (@ Divine Domesticity)

A new hobby I need to learn- knitting baby stuff (@ Frugal Upstate)

Here is another cute idea for a change jar (@ Motherhood for Dummies)

Amy's Notebook 03.20.08

These knitted Easter eggs are so cute (@ The Purl Bee)

Aren't these secret pocket Easter eggs precious? (@ Sew, Mama, Sew!)

I love this printable CVS planning sheet (@ The Sparrow's Nest)

I will have to make this pecan pie for my dad (@ Shelterrific)

Here are some great Easter hacks for the kids (@ Parent Hacks)

I love this spice label craft that you can do with your kids (@ Plum Pudding)

This monthly photo idea is so amazing (@ Ohdeedoh)

I want to remove our popcorn ceiling (@ DIY Maven)

I love these extension cord holders (@ Apartment Therapy)

I forgot about this fresh bread color coding(@ Frugal for Life)

I feel even more green now that I have been spring cleaning & decluttering (@ Unclutterer)

This carrot bundt cake looks delicious (@ Baking Bites)

I love these ideas for what to do with tea towels (@ Apartment Therapy)

This looks like another great Easter round-up (@ The Felt Mouse)

Even more fun Easter egg ideas (@ Crafty Daisies)

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Amy's Notebook 03.13.08

These window silhouettes are so spring-y (@ Skip to My Lou)

These baked donuts look delicious (@ Soule Mama)

I love this number and color game for toddlers (@ Parent Hacks)

I love this tip for getting a perfectly cooked steak (@ The Kitchn)

Snickerdoodle French Toast?? My family will be in heaven (@ Baking Bites)

I love this tutorial for how to sew a double-sided strap (@ Fat Orange Cat)

These recipes for dressings look delicious (@ Angry Chicken)

I also want to try this recipe for beef stew (@ Shelterrific)

These parmesan garlic potatoes would make a great side to my perfectly grilled steak (@ The Sparrow's Nest)

Isn't this idea for a fruit basket the coolest? (@ Daily Danny)

I need to do a household inventory (@ The Simple Dollar)

This looks like a great round-up of ideas for ways to recycle water bottles (@ Frugal Upstate)

I am always worried about this- what to do if you break a CFL bulb (@ Not Martha)

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Amy's Notebook

This is such a neat idea for recycling old towels (@ Make & Do)

These beads made from newspaper are so amazing (@ A Storybook Life)

I love this idea for labeling binder clips to organize paperwork (@ Life Hacker)

I want to try this recipe for roasted brussels sprouts (@ Serious Eats)

This make-ahead monkey bread looks delicious (@ Bake & Shake)

These egg-shaped chalks look like a neat Easter addition to our baskets (@ Skip to My Lou)

I love this refashioned cardigan using an old thrift store tie- it is so inventive (@ Blissed Out)

I am going to make a fort for our kids out of a fitted sheet (@ Parent Hacks)

I am amazed at this super cute cake (@ Oh My Stinkin Heck)

I love this cute little dry erase board made from an envelope (@ Diary of Claudine Hellmuth)

These banana cookies look like they would be a huge hit in our house (@ Simply Recipes)

Another idea for a window mistreatment? I am in heaven (@ Nesting Place)

Here is another great use for hair clippers (@ Craft Apple)

I read this about library books and fell out of my chair (@ Parent Dish)

I would never think to use my mason jars for this (@ Life Hacker)

This Easter Egg Tree is simply stunning (@ Scribbit)

I love these ideas for things to use your old formula cans for (@ Motherhood for Dummies)

I would never think to make my own nonslip socks for the kids (@ Parent Hacks)

This sewing book prototype is so cool looking (@ Elsie Marley)

I love this sweet little smock and adorable pictures (@ Pleasant View Schoolhouse)

Amy's Notebook 02.28.08

I love this step-by-step tutorial for roasting a chicken. I want to try her seasoned rub- it looks tasty (@ The Sparrow's Nest)

This one hour project for making a bag looks great! (@ Ric Rac)

This milk jug chandelier is amazing- I would have never thought to repurpose these in this way (@ shelterrific)

I bet my children would love these sesame fish sticks (@ Simply Recipes)

I love this idea to turn your yogurt containers into sippy cups (@ Life Hacker)

I love the photography tips in this post and can't wait to try some of them (@ Dutch Blitz)

This post on food brand loyalty really got me thinking (@ Cheap Healthy Good)

This bagel recipe looks delicious. Must. Make. Bagels. (@ My Paper Crane)

I need to make a clothespin bag for the spring- these free patterns are great (@ Tip Nut)

These toilet paper race cars look like a fun craft to do with my son (@ The Ramblings of a Crazy Woman)

I want to try this homemade banana ice cream recipe- it sounds delicious (@ Blissfully Domestic)

I love these gift ideas- especially the newspaper one (@ Ohdeedoh)

I need to try this recipe for lemon poppyseed scones (@ Be It Ever So Humble)

I love this allowance idea (@ Free Money Finance)

This 20 minute apron is too cute (@ the Loria Family Dialogues)

I am going to be adopting this birthday party table in our house (@ Like Merchant Ships)

I love this idea for making a utility tub skirt. It would certainly mask the paint drips in our tub (@ shelterrific)

This homemade bowling pin set sounds like a fun activity for these long winter days (@ Chocolate on My Cranium)

I love this idea for learning how to draw dinosaurs with your kid. Guaranteed a cool mom award if I learned this (@ GoodyBlog)

I think I might make some Easter gardening baskets this year (@ The Felt Mouse)

Homemade Hostess Cakes? These sound amazing (@ Smitten Kitchen)

Amy's Notebook Q & A

Q: I love that you post these notebook entries every week, but I'm wondering what you do with them once they're compiled on your blog? (So many recipes and craft ideas that I wonder how you file them to be used)?

A: I started my notebook entries as a way to highlight some of the great sites on the internet and a way to track things that I would like to do. I don't anticipate ever doing all of the things in the notebook entries and some of the things that I highlight are really cool for other people, but not for me. For example, I love to see knitting projects, but I don't knit... yet! I just love to look at other people's great ideas and it inspires me to have a list of great crafts to try, recipes to use, and other inventive ideas of saving money. My notebook was a way to decrease linking to favorites on my browser because I was getting really overwhelmed with that. Now I can just go right to my virtual notebooks and find exactly what I am looking for.

I remember almost everything that is highlighted in my notebooks, but sometimes I like to just page through them to remember things I would like to do. If you click on the label at the bottom of the entries (Favorites or Notebook), it will bring up all of the entries that I have ever put together. This is a great way to just browse through all of the entries and have them all in one place.

If I want to do one project in particular I use the Ctrl + F and type in the project or recipe I am looking for. I find it to be the fastest way for me to search through the entries. You could also use the "search" on the left-hand side of our page and type in what you are looking for and it will bring up the entire entry that a particular project was featured in.

Q: Do you have a nifty blogging trick for posting lists of links like this? I'd like to do this on occasion, too, but find it so time consuming. I keep thinking there's got to be a better way...

I will not lie at all, these are INCREDIBLY time-consuming. Each of these entries was handpicked very lovingly and was included because I loved each of them so much. There are no bad eggs in these batches and I always try to highlight things that I think everyone will enjoy and include the things that are important to me. I try to pick a good match for our readers too- crafts, organizing projects, parenting ideas and projects, ways to save money, and thrifty solutions for your home.

What I do is start a notebook entry as soon as a notebook entry is done. I title a post and then I start literally the next day. I have found the easiest way to browse other blogs is using a feed reader. I add tons and tons of blogs to my feed reader and I read many religiously. If I see something that I think would be a good match for my notebook entry, I add it to the next week's entry. I basically compile all week long until I have a nice full notebook of ideas at the end of the week.

It is time-consuming, but I hope it is worth it! I also get lots of new readers through these entries that might not have found us otherwise. They have helped me build some great friendships and have been a fun way to highlight some of my favorite people in the blogging world!

Thank you for your questions!

Amy's Notebook 02.21.08

I am going to start saving my tin cans to organize my craft space (@ Laissezfaire)

I like these tips for information to leave for your babysitters. Great advice and something that I will need to work on (@ The Family CEO)

I want to try this homemade laundry soap recipe (@ disdressed)

This super hero book is too cool! (@ CraftyPod)

These button-tab hats are beautiful (@ I Like Lemons)

Now I am hungry for some homemade biscuits (@ Shelterrific)

I love these Scrabble Coasters- they would be a perfect addition to our family game nights (@ Craftzine)

I love this patterned key rack (@ Design*Sponge)

These bedside pockets would be great for some of my reading material (@ Knitty Vintage & Roses)

This idea for veneering an old table is so inventive (@ Daily Danny)

I am going to have to try this homemade finger paint recipe (@ ohdeedoh)

These brownie cups look delicious (@ The Sparrow's Nest)

I am going to have to make some Chicken Piccata one night for dinner (@ Simply Recipes)

Making homemade dog food in your slow cooker? That is something I would have never thought of (@ Wisebread)

I love this piece on voluntary simplicity- what a great reminder (@ Millionaire Mommy Next Door)

This homemade bread recipe looks divine (@ Money Saving Mom)

I want to try this raisin bread recipe too (@ INNside Innkeeping)

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Don't forget to enter our Ann Taylor LOFT Giveaway on The Motherloot! One lucky winner will win a beautiful maternity outfit of her choice. Please enter our giveaway by letting us know what your favorite outfit is by Monday, March 3rd at 8PM. Make sure that you provide a valid email address so you can be contacted. Much luck to everyone!

Retro Eats

Meredith, at Like Merchant Ships, is embarking on a fun adventure. She is following a 1950's budget menu plan for her family this week.

I am looking forward to reading all of her thrifty tips and discoveries through her journey. Considering how fun our Iron Chef Moms Challenge was, I am sure that this is going to be a great read and an inspiration in my kitchen.

I also am on the hunt for retro foods since I will be hosting our Bunco group in April. I picked a Retro Housewife theme and everyone has to wear their apron and bring a retro dish. I will have to bookmark some of her ideas for our night together.

Amy's Notebook 02.14.07

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! I hope you enjoy some special time with your loved ones!

Here are this week's picks for great reads- enjoy!

I love these ideas for making your own Swiffer pads.

These oatmeal tips are great- I never would have thought to make it in a thermos.

Aren't these plant cozies made from an old sweater so cute?

Don't these chocolate heart pancakes look delicious?

This tote bag is so cute!

I love these tips and tricks for washing your pillows.

I would have never thought to use vintage board games for art. This would look super cool in a playroom too!

I want to make some flubber with the kids.

This WHO Bread looks delicious.

I love this master bathroom makeover. Our master bathroom is next on our list for being revamped.

Isn't this dog bed amazing?I don't have a dog, but I thought it was such a smart idea!

This beauty products post is a fun read. I love to see what products people are addicted to.

This "mix tape" reminds me of the ones that I used to make for my husband when we were dating.

I love this chocolate pretzels idea.

I want to make some of these rice pillows.

Don't these chocolate cookies look so yummy?

Aren't these day-of-the-week dish towels so cool?

I love these fabric storage bins (hat tip to Apartment Therapy!)

This purse made from a tablecloth is so cute! I have always been a fan of gingham prints.

This diaper wallet is such a smart idea!

I couldn't resist sharing these cupcakes & quilts for some fun retro flashbacks!

Amy's Notebook 02.07.08

I love this tutorial on cleaning your vacuum cleaner filter.

Isn't this idea for making an ABC book so cute?

I like this idea for recycling old catalogs around our house.

Some great inspiration for an organized craft space.

I am going to have to remember this idea for using a can opener to open all of those gifts next year.

I could also use my can opener and make these cute Valentine's containers.

I want to make one of these heart-shaped wreaths for my door.

These button cards would be a great way to use some buttons out of my stash.

I love these little steps towards saving money.

I love this linen checkerboard set.

These Valentine's Day blocks are so neat looking. Gives me lots of ideas for future projects!

I think this car litter bag is so amazing looking. We need about forty of these for my car.

I need to download this cookbook- I sure do love a freebie!

This stitched lazy susan is super cool looking.

These heart-shaped paper clips are so cute!

How cute are these map collages? Yet another great repurpose for an old map!

Yet another smart idea for ways to use oil cloth.

These red velvet cupcakes would be a neat Valentine's Day treat.

These homemade pop tarts look absolutely delicious!

I want to try this recipe for Parmesan Pretzel Sticks. They would be a fun addition to a family meal!

Amy's Notebook 01.31.07

Well, here is your weekly time-sucker! I look forward to sharing these each week and I hope it is full of ideas for things you can do with your family!

Just in case you missed it, don't forget to sign up for our Starbucks $20 Gift Card Giveaway. There are over 500 entries! I should give away stuff more often! I also posted our results from our sweet Valentine's Day giveaway. Congrats to our winner Lori and her daughter Sarah! Take some time to read the entries- there were so many great ideas for ways to celebrate Valentine's Day. Guess what? I didn't see very many on there that would cost a lot of money!

Happy reading!


The way this gift is wrapped gave me some new ideas for shipping future gifts.

This is a great project to do with toddlers for Valentine's Day- heart flower pots!

I love these labels she created for her spice jars. It makes them look so elegant!

This sun dried tomato artichoke chicken dish looks delicious!

How cute is this quiet little family set? So beautiful and thoughtful!

These warm fuzzy cupcakes are adorable.

I love these collector's boxes.

These hugs and kisses cookies look so yummy!

These bath bomb surprises are so cool! That would be a huge hit with my kids! I also loved this idea for making marbleized paper with the kiddos.

I love this idea for making a laptop cozy!

These crowns would be a cute craft to do for Emily's next birthday party.

These updates to vintage linens was so inspiring and creative.

This pom pom craft would be a fun one for Ethan & I to do together.

Wouldn't this be the perfect art for a sewing or craft room? I see retro patterns all of the time that would work perfectly for this.

I am totally building a bar out of my kids changing table. What a perfect repurpose of a useless item in our house.

I love this thrift store jacket makeover! I am going to keep my eyes peeled the next time I am out shopping. I will need to look for some vintage chic coats.

I love these ideas for saving money.

I try to keep a few vintage handkerchiefs in my purse so I loved this post on cloth handkerchiefs.

This doll house bookcase is so cute! I am going to have to keep this in mind for Emily.

Did I mention that I want to BE Design Mom? I mean, I really want to be her. Her tips for crafts with kids are so awesome. I think she is going to think I am a stalker if I keep featuring her here, but I am content with that.

I am going to have to remember this hack the next time a diaper breaks.

A necessary reminder- unplug, unplug, unplug.

Amy's Notebook 01.24.07

I love this idea for making your own grocery bags out of a bed sheet. This produce bag tutorial is great too!

I think these coffee filter roses are so pretty!

These blueberry heart pancakes look so yummy!

These birthday party ideas and gift ideas for a 3 yr old are so amazing. Don't you just want to *be* this cool of a mom? PS- This little boy is beautiful- he is going to be a heartbreaker with those cute curls.

I am going to have to keep checking this round-up for the best vacuum cleaners.

I am going to make some of this cheesy bread the next time I entertain.

Here is another way I can use my herbs from my garden for next year. This will look so elegant on our table!

These roasted chicken legs look like they would be yummy and economical...

This floor tile organizer is so inventive!

Who can resist a hot bowl of potato soup for a yummy mummy lunch?

I am bookmarking these Valentine Marshmallow Treats for a fun snack for school.

Weeding through my bathroom closet is on my priority list for next month.

I love these tips for coffee storage.

Isn't this matching memory game so creative? Thanks to Whip Up for finding that one!

I am going to have to keep my eye out for giant old televisions because I love this bar idea. So brilliant!

Another thrift store item to look for, old ugly lamps so I make them beautiful like this one!

I love this idea for all of our free magnets laying around.

I just ordered a vacation book for Indiana after reading about taking a vacation in my own state.

This art table rocks- thanks GoodyBlog for sharing this great link!

Amy's Notebook 01.17.07

Thank you to everyone for your sweet birthday wishes- it made my day! We had a wonderful dinner with our family and I got some beautiful gifts that I am looking forward to taking a picture of and sharing with everyone. No one knows you better than your family and I got some really great stuff this year! They all picked gifts that went along with my retro-housewife theme. So chic!

Here are is my little notebook of ideas for the week- I hope you enjoy reading these as much as I enjoy putting them all together!

This granola recipe looks delicious and healthy too. I am going to have to add that to next month's menu planner.

When Emily gets a little older, I would love to try this tea party activity for her birthday party.

This indoor ice fishing looks like a fun activity when the weather is too cold to play outside.

I love this idea for creating a list of free things I can do that will keep me out of the stores.

I am going to have to think of some thrifty ways to add more yellow into our house. The color just makes me happy and these photos offer great inspiration!!

This looked like a fun project to unload some buttons in my junk drawers.

I love this how-to guide on reading a sewing pattern. Great information for someone learning to sew!

Another great instruction tutorial on making your own reusable grocery bags.

I really love this idea for decorating jar lids and her pop of color on her cabinets has me thinking about maybe adding a touch of color to mine!

I adore this patchwork skirt. I can just picture myself in it!

As we continue to get rid of the ugly dated eighties look in our house, I am thinking staining the banisters might be another thing we could do.

I need zippered pillows for our playroom. The kids wipe their faces on them all of the time and it would be so nice to be able to wash these.

For the knitters- how cute are these color-coded knitting needles. Super smart!

i just love these candles in this picture. I am going to have to do this next year around the holidays. They look so elegant!

This is a great inspiration for creating and finishing some of my projects at our house for this year.

I am going to have to try this recipe for these tiny calzones. I bet the kids would gobble them up!

Here are some more creative ways to wrap gifts- I am all about those!

I adore this little felt book- that would make a beautiful birthday gift for one of my children!

I like these ideas for post-holiday recycling!

Amy's Notebook 01.10.08

Here are a few of my favorite reads this week! Enjoy!

I love how this shelf unit was decorated with pretty paper.

This is such a cute gift idea for all of those birthday parties we go to.

I can't wait until Danny Seo's product line comes out at JC Penny. I love those reusable totes!

I want to go to England. Maybe for our anniversary if I can keep throwing money into our vacation funds.

Someone else painted their kitchen cabinets a pretty white. Now I need to think about painting my table white. Just worried about the abuse it would get from my children...oh, and all that work!

These chalkboard pictures are really inspiring me! I would love to add a chalkboard element in our house.

This is a great tutorial for making a birthday banner!

I wish I had a big porch so I could make a cute little snow porch like this!

Time to start thinking about Valentines. I really love this tutorial for folding a paper heart!

I just have to say that this crocheted food made me laugh out loud! Be sure to visit the link to the photos because all of her food is super cute!

Here are some more great blogging tips for all of you work-at-home mommas!

These pencil toppers are precious. What a great little project that one is! Here is another one she did and the wreath is super cute too.

I am going to be making some of this coffee cake bread.

I would have never thought to use picnic baskets for toy storage.

Thanks to Meredith for this find- A Year Off of shopping and a two month commitment from another blogger. I will be looking forward to reading these posts and getting inspired to cut the clutter and decrease the spending in our house!

These felt toy cats are super cute!

I love these reversible oilcloth placemats.

I would love some of these daisy-stitched handwarmers. They look so cozy!

I wash mostly in cold water so I was interested in reading this post (be sure to read the comments because the moms have some great stain removing techniques!)

This pasta dish looks delicious for a great mommy lunch during the day. A tad more yummy than a peanut butter sandwich!

Where was this post when I was a new mommy?

I would love to try making my own pepperoni. Has anyone else made this before?

How about some advice AGAINST changing your own oil? I thought this was very interesting!

Amy's Notebook 01.03.07

Side Note: We are having internet problems and I am blogging today from a local supermarket. It appears that our phone line is down and they said it might be until Monday before it will be repaired. I apologize for any delays with the site or responses to your emails. I will get back to you all as soon as I get a working internet connection! Luckily, I did a lot of blogging earlier this week so I hope there will be plenty to read here in the meantime.

I am heading home now, but here are a few great entries of the week!


I love Design Mom's excellent playroom makeover. This had some really great ideas for how decorate our future basement playroom.

I love this idea for keeping the kids entertained in the winter.

This entry has some great uses for all of those canning jars.

Can you believe this amazing honey baked ham? What a smart idea!

I love these ideas for losing baby weight and being frugal (kind of went along with my "Get Healthy" resolution that I shared)

Get your baby bargain forecast for the month of January.

I think I want to make all 96 of these Smitten Kitchen dishes. Yummy!

These are some cute ideas for making use of those old Christmas cards.

These fridge magnets are so cool!

Amy's Deluxe Holiday Notebook 12.20.07

There were so many excellent reads this week that I am so excited to share! I hope everyone enjoys all of this reading material with a big cup of cocoa in your hands!

I am so inspired to make S'mores and there were two excellent ideas this week! For visual learners, here is a marshmallow tutorial!

I adore these candy-cane place card holders and the powdered doughnut idea would make a great snack for a school party.

I love this idea for what to do with leftover scraps of holiday paper. Inventive and very green!

I love these holiday decorating ideas. And these snowflake decorating ideas are so great too!

I might need to make some of these winter spice scones this month.

Who could resist one of these Cinnamon Rolls on Christmas morning?

This Peppermint Bark and this Chocolate Cookie Bark recipe looks heavenly!

I really love this idea for a gingerbread mobile, but I think my kids would eat it. Crazy kids!

These holiday photos are most excellent!

We ate off of plates just like these growing up. Great memories and would make a wonderful gift, paired with the placemat purse!

These skate ornaments are so vintage and precious!

I can think of tons of people to give these free gift tags to. So awesome! These eco-friendly tags are also an excellent choice.

These homemade napkins would make a lovely holiday gift for a newlywed.

Amy's Notebook 12.13.07

I love these cute ideas for holiday ornaments, and I just so happen to have the supplies!

These Christmas DIY projects look simple enough that even I could do them!

I really enjoyed this post on Wii buying tips for the frugal shoppers.

I have been working on an article for homemade stocking stuffers, but it looks like Wise Bread had the same idea...Hmm..back to the drawing board!

This Advent calendar is a true thing of beauty. I am tempted to make her bread recipe too!

I have a new use for recycling those wine bottles!

These chocolate drizzled peanut butter cookies look delicious. I might have to add these to my holiday trays one year!

I wish I had a mantle so I could decorate it like this. It is just so festive and clever!

New Year's Resolution: Better Pictures

Along with my New Year's Resolution to take a sewing class, I resolve to take better pictures. Confessions of a Pioneer Woman brings some inspiration on acquainting myself with my copy of Photoshop.

Oh, and more photography inspiration...my camera arrived! Thank you all for your most excellent recommendations because this camera ROCKS! I am having a blast with it and can't wait to share some photos taken with it. We are just getting acquainted, so please bear with me!

Anybody have some hints for a beginner in Photoshop? I gave up on it the last time I tried the program and have been using Picasa since then.

Note to Self: Do not measure flour and talk to husband and make lunches at the same time. We have to call out for pizza because I don't believe dough is supposed to be a liquid consistency. Perhaps a cooking class might be a good investment?

Amy's Holiday Notebook 12.06.07

I just wanted to thank you all for your value camera feedback and I am happy to report that I have finally made my exciting camera purchase. I actually went to several stores and test-drove each of the models and settled on the Canon PowerShot S5. It was on sale (through December 8th) for $319.99, plus free shipping through Office Depot. After doing some price research, I thought that was a phenomenal deal and after reading the reviews and trying it out, I think I made the best choice for our family's needs. I am so excited to start using it! I am putting all of our Christmas money towards it (from all of our family) so we will have to cover about $150 of it ourselves, but the rest is through our generous grandparents! What a great Christmas gift that will be and I can't wait to share the pictures with all of you!

Now that I am REALLY in the holiday spirit, here is some great holiday reading for all of you!


Create some new holiday traditions with an Advent Book Box (I could reserve the books at the library to save money)

These stacked Christmas trees would be so cute in some festive colors.

This oatmeal pie would be delicious to take to all of those holiday potlucks.

Become more creative with my gift-giving with these great free gifts you can give.

Here are some ideas for gifts that are under ten bucks.

Remember how I told you I wanted to make one of these? Well, Michelle beat me to it and made a super cool felt gingerbread house. I am drooling right now! I also like this other tutorial for more gingerbread house ideas.

These hooded towels would make great Christmas gifts.

This envelope accordion would make a great stocking stuffer or these patchwork pincushions would be so cute as small gifts.

I love these candy cane cookies. I might have to make these this year!

How about some homemade sugar cookies? Who could resist?

Here is a great list of holiday things you can make yourself.

I love these ideas for festive holiday decorating.

I might have to make some of these holiday beer rolls for one of our dinners.

I love this post on creating Christmas values & traditions.

I am loving these mod paper ornaments.

These fabric organizers would be a great gift for a crafter.

Amy's Notebook 11.28.07

Make a baby food baby jar wreath.

I love this children's art smock.

How cool is this fabric cubby house?

These apple turnovers look delicious!

A super cool wine cork mirror.

Getting the band-aids off will no longer be a painful process.

Another reason why I want to sew- rice heat therapy bags.

I adore these cd envelopes.

These Pinecone bird feeders are so neat!

I love these advent trees made from recycled paper.

A new solution to add to the mix for getting out grease stains.

Another use for recycled sweaters- isn't this recycled sweater wreath beautiful?

I am going to have to make some turkey stroganoff after seeing these yummy pictures.

These wooden spinning tops would make a cool stocking stuffer.

I am going to have to watch these food & drink hacks.

I love these ideas for gift wrapping.

I might have to make this cute grandparent gift.

Reason 5,0002 for why I should sew.

Hmmm...what do you guys think about this holiday tipping guide? Am I just cheap or what?

You can see why this is my dream job after the kids go back to school.

This pumpkin tiramisu looks so delicious!

This list for gifts that are $5 or less really inspired me!

I am going to have to make some pumpkin pie play dough for the kids.

One Week of Food

A Penny Closer stumbled upon this photo essay from Time Magazine of what people are eating all over the world and how much it costs in different parts of the world.

What does one learn? Processed foods and poor food choices have no boundaries.

But in all seriousness, isn't this extremely interesting? I think I should take a photo of all of the food that we eat in our house- it certainly would be eye-opening to see it all laid out there like that!

Amy's Notebook 11.14.07

I love this custom corkboard.

These button monograms are beautiful.

I am going to make some of these cute Thanksgiving crafts with the kids.

This idea for oatmeal flavors is really smart!

This owl pennant would be wonderful for the holiday season.

I want to make these oatmeal, chocolate chip, & pecan cookies (hold the pecans please!) for the kids.

I love these pencil cups for making your craft room or office a little more fun.

These custom pocket crafts are such a cute idea.

This Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake looks delicious!

Amy's Notebook 11.08.07

Sew Mama Sew is doing thirty days of sewing projects for the month of November- do not miss it! Note to self- splurge on a sewing class after the holidays.

Make a creative home bar.

This felt gingerbread house gave me an idea for something the kids and I could maybe make for the holiday season.

Use up your Halloween candy in your cookies.

Make Thanksgiving dinner in one hour flat.

These candy corn turkeys are too cute!

I want to make one of these dress-up suitcases for my daughter.

Throw an After-Thanksgiving potluck dinner.

Learn how to make a good homemade chicken stock.

I want this cupcake pan.

Make some gobble up granola snacks.

Check out these solutions for dealing with the rising bread costs.

Guess what? Even I could be a millionaire if I am smart!

Sew a purse organizer.

Organize your toy room with cute labels.

What to do about the rising cost of powdered milk?

These Oreo Truffles sound divine for the holiday season.

I like these tips for avoiding icy car windows.

Make the perfect cake.

Throw a princess party on a budget.

I can't wait to see Meredith's felt fruits and vegetables!

Amy's Notebook 11.01.07

I am so excited to share that our new product review blog, The Motherloot, will be introduced to our MomAdvice.com website this Monday. I know I have been awfully quiet on here lately and I just want you to know why!

I also wanted to thank everyone for their visits to our site this month. We had a record high of almost 95K hits this month! Thank you to everyone who has shared about our site or who has come to visit us regularly. I couldn't do it without you!

Here are some excellent reads for the week:

Make some cool luggage tags.

Look for the out-of-the-ordinary when shopping on eBay.

Get the gourmet kitchen look without the price tag.

Enjoy a yummy recipe for pumpkin pancakes.

Make an award-winning pumpkin pie this year.

Organize your medicine cabinet.

See how to save by adjusting your thermostat.

Add a punch of color to your punch bowl.

Get prepared for an emergency.

Make some pumpkin pie bars (Note: Can you tell I have pumpkin on the brain?)

Create your own cloth shopping bags.

Read all about price books and shopping discoveries.

Find a new use for your pumpkin.

Make a delicious apple pie.

Get some Martha Christmas inspiration.

Make a candy wreath out of all that leftover candy.

Get inspired by this mom's ingenious toy kitchen.

Amy's Notebook 10.25.07

Good news! We are putting the finishing touches on our new product review blog, The Motherloot! I can't wait to share it with all of you and it will be so nice to have a separate home for our reviews.

Other places you might find us this week:
Frugal Hacks
The Carnival of Family Life & The Carnival of Recipes & Make it From Scratch sharing our make-ahead appetizer ideas for Thanksgiving.
The Festival of Frugality shared our bubbly magnet post and named us an Editor's Pick!
The Carnival of Personal Finance included our fun & frugal wrapping ideas post.
I was also on WSBT-TV this week, but I haven't seen the segment posted yet. It also ended up appearing on Wednesday instead of Tuesday due to another interview so unfortunately I don't have anything to share. I will be sure to post if this goes up!
I also spoke to the Middlebury,IN MOPS group on cleaning- thanks for the opportunity to share with those moms and meet others from the Michiana community!


Now on to my notebook entry for today...There were so many great ideas this week so be sure to visit these!

I love these pictures of additional ideas for things you can do with your pumpkin this year.

How cute are these dressed up magazine holders?

These hats are so cool- I especially love the curlers idea!

I have been saving my coffee canisters for awhile now and I love these pumpkin canisters. I think I might need to make some snowmen ones too!

These flower pot canisters would make a lovely addition to my daughter's room and would be a great way to organize all of her hair accessories.

I am going to have to make some ghost toast for the kids.

I love these ideas and designs for window films.

This post gave me some great ideas for some creative Halloween & fall decorations.

These witch kitchen jars look like a lot of work, but those are some amazing results!

I like this idea for a kid's table for our Thanksgiving dinner. Much more fun than a plain old table!

I love this old-fashioned basket for library trips. I will have to keep my eyes peeled at the thrift store.

I think I might make some of these witch hat treats for some of the fun Halloween events we are going to.

I am also going to add this Potato Soup and Pumpkin Crunch Cake to my menu planner for next month! Yummy!

I love these organizing ideas for my desk! There are some very creative and frugal solutions!

Amy's Notebook 10.18.07

Make some spiced pumpkin seeds.

Make autumn leaf sun catchers.

I am going to make this Lego Birthday Cake for my son this year.

Throw the perfect first birthday party.

Make your own fabric buttons.

Find a creative way to store your dish soap.

Sew a simple girly skirt.

Boo your neighbors.

Make some yummy apple bread.

Learn how to store your bulk items.

An Inspiring Home Tour

Run over to Miss Monica's website, The Homespun Heart, and check out her pictures from a recent tour of the Martha Stewart homes. It has to be one of the most inspiring house tours because I wanted to do everything in every single picture.

We have tons of projects going on over here and our updates are slow with two children and little money or time. We have high hopes though for the kind of home we would like to create here. These pictures gave me another dose of fuel.

On our to-do list:

Painting our kitchen cabinets- I have decided that I am going to paint them an antique white and do bronze hardware. Currently they are oak and have no hardware so I think this will add some character to these.

We are going to do wainscot in our entryway. It is currently painted chocolate and I think it would add some nice character and pizazz to the entryway. We will also be adding a bench for seating.

We are creating an area in our garage for the kids to take their coats and shoes off. I cleaned out the garage and am finally able to park my car in there (whoohoo!) and now we have room to make our own mud room area. I am putting a bench out there (to take off our shoes) and I got hooks to hang our coats up. This will hopefully clear out some of the clutter and will help prevent all of the tracking in of muddy boots and such.

We are going to do some crown molding in our home.

Our upstairs bathroom needs serious updating- wallpaper removal, painting, new lighting, new fan, new flooring...we pretty much need to gut this room and start all over.

We are going to do wainscot in our family room downstairs. It has a ledge and we are going to do this from that point down.

We would like to do a large family desk (like the one featured in the tour), but an L desk so that my husband and I can work together instead of one person in the office and one person hunched over at the couch. I think we are going to try and build this ourselves.

The list goes on and on and on. Our little home is a big sucker of time and money, but the more we do it to it, the more I am beginning to like it.

Sound Off: What is on your to-do list?

Amy's Notebook: 10.12.07

Make a pretty lunch box.

These before and after photos on these kitchen cabinets are really motivating me. Now I just need to convince my husband to go along with another painting project around here.

Make some homemade vanilla extract.

I think this Pumpkin Biscotti would make a great holiday gift.

Never look at your leftovers the same again with Stephanie's great advice!

How cute are these Halloween tins?

Learn the rules of frugality!

Stay warm (practically) for free.

Buy some blackboard paint and make some really cute stuff for your house.

Throw the best autumn party ever!

Wrap your gifts elegantly.

Amy's Notebook 09.13.07

I just want to thank you all for your awesome comments this week and for all of your encouragement to our family! I truly feel blessed to have you all and it is such a pleasure to have a format like this to share on.

Here are my picks for top reads this week:

Apartment Therapy shares some great tips for a great bento lunch box experience.

Wise Craft has a cute idea for getting your kids to do what they are supposed to in the morning.

My Byrd House turns an old pair of jeans into a cute apron.

Parent Hacks has some great ideas for what to do with those old baby bottles.

Inside a Black Apple has a yummy recipe for Rosemary & Olive Oil Bread.

Storybook Woods has a great tutorial for making a beautiful autumn project.

Baby Cheapskate shares the scoop on Craigslist.

Blogging Away Debt shows the difference in their electric bill just by switching to CFL light bulbs.

Chronicles of a Curious Cook makes mini quiches that are a roaring success in their house.

Frugal Upstate tells you how to feed your baby inexpensively.

GoodyBlog features some of the cutest cupcakes ever!

My Home Redux shares the best type of paint to use when painting your kitchen cabinets.

Tip Nut shares a great tutorial on making homemade gift baskets.

Frugal Subversive Award & My Nominess

Kim, known for her talent at Frugal Hacks and Life in a shoe, has tagged me for the Frugal Subversive Award. This has been circulating on all of the blogs that I read so I was thrilled to get a nomination. Thank you so much for including me!

I am supposed to pass this on to three bloggers who consistently turn their backs on consumerism to live frugally in a creative and authentic way. Here are my nominees for the award...

1. The Homespun Heart- Has anyone nominated Monica yet? She deserves it for all of the creative ways she inspires others. I love her ideas for inexpensive birthday parties, her crafty crafts, and the recipes that she so generously shares with the blogging world. Did I mention that I consider her one of my dearest friends in the cyberspace?

2. Homespun Living- Not to be confused with the first nomination! This blog focuses on simple living and the sweet country life. I find the photos to be inspiring and they bring me back to the days spent in my great grandmother's country kitchen. The pictures just make me happy! What more can I say?

3. Simply Thrifty- An excellent resource to anyone who is looking to lead a life of frugality. Deb has so many ideas and she links to excellent information on how to be thrifty. She is great for someone who is just beginning to learn to save money and for those who are more experienced in the art of stretching a buck.

Enjoy the reads and feel free to pass on the award to others!

Amy's Notebook 09.07.07

Stitch a colorful lunch bag.

Turn some pants into skirts.

Make a quilted fabric wallet.

I needed this inspiration for doing my fall decorating.

Learn how to make your own preserves.

I adore these fabric buckets- why can't I be more crafty?

Aren't these crocheted cropped cardigans so cute?

I am going to have to try this chocolate chip cookie recipe.

Here are more ideas for a money-free weekend.

Some more tips for the back-to-school season.

I will have to try some of these homemade stain removers.

A cookie troubleshooting guide that I love!

Am I too cheap for a Nintendo Wii? I want one so bad!

Amy's Notebook 08.30.07

Keep your kids cool in the car.

Make toilet roll bracelets with the kids.

Take an artsy photo of your children.

Make a pretty sewing machine cover.

Make a cute sewing kit in a jar.

Try out some unique stitches and make some coasters.

Attempt to make butter with your kiddos.

Not Martha is making me really want a Bakers Edge Pan. Check out her lasagna.

Try this wonderful back-to-school reminder idea.

I am going to make a big batch of these yummy muffins.

Amy's Notebook 08.25.07

Design a kitchen peg board.

Learn how to square bags.

Make your own recipe for energy bars.

Alter a board book for your child.

Recycle those tea cups and make a tea time clock.

Learn how to throw a homemade wedding from dress to tux.

Make yourself some bread and butter pickles.

Create your own spa bathroom retreat on the cheap.

Make a birthday thank you that is inexpensive and memorable.

Stop cleaning your house and just relax!

Sound Off: Now that I have posted my favorites for the week, what is the best post that you did this week? Share your favorite post under the comments link! Looking forward to some fun reading!

Make It Yourself!

Simply Thrifty has an amazing list of 100 Things You Can Make Yourself, with links to instructions on making anything and everything yourself. It received mixed reviews from folks about whether it was more economical to make or to buy certain items on the list, but certainly made for interesting conversation.

Carrying on with the DIY spirit, the next 100 More Things You Can Make Yourself list was born. Simply Thrifty shares some interesting links to things like making your own baby shoes, making your own cereal bars, and how to make whiskey.

It is great to see all of the wonderful ideas and with 200 links to explain how to do it yourself, I marvel at how much work this all must have taken!

Kudos to Deborah for taking it on! I can never say I am bored again!

Figuring Out How Much Your Time is Really Worth

Life. On a Budget has an excellent post about figuring out how much your time is worth. She explains the argument that most people use for figuring out how much their time costs might not be the right philosophy.

Enjoy the great read!

Lessons from Miss Meredith

This week Meredith, the lovely blogger of Like Merchant Ships, is offering a week's tutorial for an Online Finishing School. She is sharing the special touches that make her house so homey and the best part of all is that all of her ideas are very budget-friendly.

I hope you will join her class this week. I can't imagine a better teacher and I have already benefited from her first few lessons.

Sound Off: Who taught you how to make a home? Are you a self-taught homemaker or did you have a great influence in your life?

Amy's Notebook 07.19.07

The Evil Mad Scientist has a tutorial on how to make your own light tent for taking photos.

Lifehacker shares a great tip for changing your air conditioner's filter with ease.

Monica, over at The Homespun Heart, shares a yummy recipe for coffee cake muffins. These look delicious!

WiseBread has a great post on things to do with chicken leg quarters. They list lots of great dishes that will be easy on your wallet.

DIY Maven shares some great uses for soap that you probably haven't thought of.

Nested has a great tutorial for making a fold-up crayon pouch.

The Crafty Daisies have fun with socks and gloves.

Free Money Finance offers some great cleaning tips and advice.

Shannon, over at Rocks in My Dryer, offers a pep talk on sewing (which I really, really needed).

Fish Creek House has some really great cleaning tips.

Zen Habits offers up 75 simple pleasures to enjoy.

Amy's Notebook 07.05.07

Here are my favorite reads for the week:

Wise Bread shares how wine can actually give your car's battery a boost. There is also a great post on some edible flowers that I didn't realize were even edible. They might be lurking in your garden this year!

Notes from a Cottage Industry has a napkin fold throw down.

WorkShak points out a tool that you can use to get your life more organized. For the frugal souls, we could probably take the categories offered and come up with a book of our own.

Stop the Ride! hosts a great Make it From Scratch carnival this week- check it out!

Baby Cheapskate points out how you can score some free Playtex Nurser bottles.

TipNut shares how you can make a paper bag scrapbook.

Disorder2Order offers tips for organizing your pantry.

These mug and french press jackets are adorable. I wish I was more crafty!

ParentHacks has a great idea for those old telephone books laying around the house.

DIY Maven shares how you can score some cheap eco-friendly shopping bags.

Did you know that Starbucks gives away their coffee grounds for your gardens?

Mommysecrets has a cute tip for sharing a pizza with your family. I am going to have to try this one!

The Frugal Duchess shares some cheap tips for decorating your guest room.

Goodyblog shares a source for making cute puppets with the kids.

Apartment Therapy has a cute project for all of those wine corks you have been throwing out.

How amazing is this LED picnic blanket from Instructables?

Amy's Notebook 06.14.07

Here are the best reads this week:

This post from Frugal for Life nearly broke my heart. If you are having financial problems, suicide is not the answer. Please read Dawn's advice and resources for those of you who are financially struggling!

Jeri's Organizing & Decluttering News has a great post on sites that can help you with your summer travels, including free packing lists!

Scribbit added a great free summer activity that you can do with your little ones this summer. How about letting them be an archaeologist for a day?

Mommy Secrets shares her grandmother's homemade chocolate ice cream recipe. Are you hungry yet?

101 Cookbooks has a yummy recipe for a Skinny Omelette.

LifeHacker shares a great way you can organize your frequently used CD's.

Creative Organizing shares tips for weeding through your children's toys.

Storybook Woods shares pictures of her beautiful vintage sewing chest. I want, I want, I want!

The Simple Dollar compares the cost of making your own laundry detergent versus the cost of the Costco brand. Is there really a savings?

Simply Thrifty shares tips for fighting stains.

Amy's Notebook 06.07.07

Here are a few of my favorite entries for the week!

Saving Advice has a great entry on how to get discounted movie tickets with tons of links to programs that you can take advantage of.

Baby Cheapskate is giving a penny to the Humane Society for each unique hit she gets, in the month of June, and Angie is asking our readers to visit. Please swing by her site and help charity in the process.

Dawn, over at Frugal for Life, compares her experience with the Grocery Game versus her experience with the free service from Coupon Mom. I have always wondered about the Grocery Game and if it would be worth the money spent. I think she answered the question well!

Apartment Therapy has a great suggestion for using bookcases for toy storage. Check out their great post on how to make ice cream in a bag. Does this bring back any memories for some of you?

The Simple Dollar shares a great reminder for keeping track of your home and auto maintenance.

Goodyblog has a great idea for making your own version of the game, "Guess Who?" Check out their instructions!

Meredith, at Like Merchant Ships, had some really great posts this week. Her post on disguising a store bought cake was ingenious, and I love her tutorials on spray paint and the varieties that are offered in the store.

Sound Money Tips has a great tip for getting the cheapest airline travel.

Enjoy that reading and stay out of the heat!

Amy's Notebook 05.31.2007

I had hoped to have more time to put this together, but I had the opportunity to host a birthday dinner for my father-in-law so time ended up being limited today. I did manage to make a big tray of baked ziti, homemade bread, and a chocolate birthday cake in honor of his special day.

Regardless, I did want to share a few of my favorite reads for the week! Enjoy!

Stop the Ride! has a great entry on how to keep track of all of those library books. I love Stephanie's suggestion for book limits.

Happy Hearts at Home share a homemade version of insecticidal soap.

Simply Thrifty shares about a free donut day at Krispy Kreme. Yummy!

Jeri's Organizing Tips shares the importance of finding your colors to help you weed through your clothing and to help you when doing shopping in the future.

I'm An Organizing Junkie offers up a great idea for an inexpensive organizer for your wall. I am going to have to look for these when doing my thrift shopping.

The Frugal Duchess has a great listing of freebies you can score at your local hardware store.

INNside Innkeeping has a great entry on ways you can go green that will save you the most money.

My Home Redux shares some great ways you can decorate with garage sale finds.

Scribbit has a great tutorial on how to make your own dollhouse.

Home-Ec 101 has a yummy sloppy joe recipe posted.

Apartment Therapy has a fabulous entry on how to photograph your children chock full of great resources to help capture all of those precious moments.

Simply Recipes has a recipe for making juice popsicles. Be sure to read the comments as the readers seem to have lots of other great ideas for this summer treat.

Amy's Notebook 05.24.2007

Be Mom of the Year:

Parent Hacks has a great tip for a cheap bubble blower for the kids.

Frugal Upstate has a great tutorial on making the perfect Barbie cake for the princess in your life!

Scribbit has a great idea for keeping your kids busy this summer. You should also read her great piece on teaching your kids about money!

Be Cheap:

When I was a little girl, my mom made these hobo hamburgers for us all the time. Don't forget to put some ketchup on the side for dipping! Thanks, Cheap Cooking!

Visit the Festival of Frugality over at Get Rich Slowly- our wedding gift post was included and we even got a gold star! Go me!

Thrifty Mommy shares a great tip on getting your diapers REALLY, REALLY cheap this week. Don't miss it!

The Simple Dollar shares why he chose Sam's Club over a Costco membership. It is a great read (as always from one of my favorite bloggers!)

Have a Martha Moment:

Crafty Pod shows you how you can make foil edged gift tags- very beautiful & thrifty to boot!

Craft Magazine shares some photos of great looking craft rooms. You could definitely have a Martha moment in one of these spaces.

Get Inspired:

Like Merchant Ships shares a quick and easy way to get your grout looking like brand new again. You won't believe the results!

Workshak has a great post on how to manage working from home during the summer. Now that the kids are on break, this is a definite read for any work-at-home mommas out there!

Apartment Therapy ran a great entry on common cooking mistakes.

Home Ec 101 shares a recipe for yummy sticky buns.

Amy's Notebook 05.17.2007

Today's notebook entry is going to be a quick one. I am down and out with some kind of head cold thing, so I am not really up to doing my usual thing today. I hope you will enjoy some of these fun reads in the meantime though!

Baby Cheapskate tells us how to find playgroups in your local area.

INNside Innkeeping offers some insight on making muffins and a special recipe for applesauce spice muffins.

The Frugal Duchess offers thrifty bookshelf tips.

DIY Maven shares pictures of her finished craft room- I am green with jealousy!

Sew Green has a step-by-step tutorial on making your own laundry soap.

River Band Ranch shows how you can decorate Ikea storage units with vintage wallpaper. Very shabby chic!

The Buzz Queen shares an update on keeping her children motivated to do their chores.

Crafty Pod shares her recipe for spaghetti carbonara.

Simply Recipes has some ideas for kid-friendly wraps.

Happy Hearts at Home shares her master mix recipe for muffins.

Not Made of Money shares tips for frugal scrapbooking. This is a must read for those of you who do scrapbooking for a hobby!

Shakhammer shares a link to free floor plans.

Parent Dish is running a great series called, "Retro Mom." This one is on how her mom managed to keep the house clean & it is full of great tips.

The Thrifty Blogger has a great recipe for chocolate cake- yum!

Amy's Notebook 05.10.2007

Be Mom of the Year:

No Credit Needed has a great list of ways they plan to help teach their children about money.

Be Cheap:

Thrifty Mommy shares some frugal ways you can show your child’s teacher how much you appreciate them. There are some great ideas in this post- don’t miss it!

DIY Maven shares her tips for making inexpensive and simple curtains. These are so cute!
Simply Good Tips have some great ideas for spring cleaning that is dirt cheap.

Craftzine shares tips for recycling office paper into cute little doodle pads.

Have a Martha Moment:

Fish Creek House shares what might have happened in the kitchen that would have caused you to have a less-than-perfect cake. Read their great tutorial on how to achieve a cake of perfection.

Notes from a Cottage Industry has a cute craft for making the neatest place card settings for your dinner table.

Get Inspired:

Stephanie over at Stop the Ride has a great post on all of the things you can be composting that you might not have thought of. I love her tips and the link she refers to.

Rocks in My Dryer has some great tips for organizing your digital photos. Don’t forget to visit those other Works-For-Me Wednesday participants!

The Simple Dollar has a great reading list of the best & worst personal finance books. Make sure to add some of these to your library reading list!

Jeri’s Organizing & Decluttering News has a great resource list for owners of broken iPods.

Amy's Notebook 05.03.2007

Be Mom of the Year:

Scribbit shares a great way to decorate your child’s room (with their current obsessions!) and not blow a bunch of money on achieving the look.

Design Mom (guest blogger Amy M) shares some really cool ways you can share photos of your children.

Be Cheap:

Simply Thrifty shares a list of resources for the frugal crafter in you. You don’t necessarily have to pay for a pattern when you use one of these free listed resources.

Thrifty Mommy shares a link to a great article on mothers who are worn out and why time management is a thrifty choice for mothers.

Lifehacker shares how you can make a DIY string tripod, for those of us too cheap to purchase the real deal.

Have a Martha Moment:

Parent Dish has a great retro mom recipe for how to make the world’s best chocolate cake. The best part about this is that it is made with a boxed cake mix- whoohoo!

Oh Happy Day shares how you can truly have a Martha Moment…you can buy her products at Michael’s now.

My Longest Year shares a pattern and tutorial for creating a reversible half apron.

How about orange has a great template for making your own envelopes out of beautiful paper.

Get Inspired:

Personal Finance Advice shares with their readers ten important items you should keep in your purse or wallet.

Zen Habits encourages you to streamline your day better and come up with systems for doing everyday chores. Are you doing things the simple way or the complicated way?

Shakyard has a great piece on how to achieve a perfect lawn.

Not Made of Money shares tips for the homeowner who is trying to sell their house themselves.
It is a great read if you are trying to bypass hiring a real estate agent.

Shakhammer has a great entry on how to install a clothesline to dry your clothes. It is full of simple & straightforward directions on adding this to your home.

Young & Broke shares tips on how to become a good saver of your money. There is lots of great information in here!

News You Can Use:

Parent Dish shares the scoop on a product recall on Payless shoes. Be sure to read this if you have purchased those Airwalk Clog shoes for your child.

Amy's Notebook 04.26.2007

Be Mom of the Year:

The Cozi Connection has a great list of items you should add to your family calendar so you don’t miss a single important event. This one is a wealth of information!

Genki Desu Yo shares some tips to get your kids moving on doing chores pay per post style. This is an awesome read and much cheaper than hiring a cleaning service.

Be Cheap:

Scaling Back has a great post on how to scale back on electricity. They got familiar with the electronic meter outside and are hoping to lower their electricity bills.

Zen Habits share a simple way you can save $3,000 a year, without a lot of effort on your part.

Lifehacker shares tips for how to remove car dents on a budget. This is the kind of information every frugal gal needs (especially if you bang up the car and don’t want your husband to know!)

Spending Smart has a great list of frugal cell phone tricks. I like the Craigsnumber one that is listed- check it out!

Have a Martha Moment:

Frugal Upstate has a recipe for making homemade lemonade- yum!

Craft Magazine features an entry on some great sewing accessories you can make. I love the bag idea!

Home Ec 101 shares some ironing tips for fixing those crazy polo collars that won’t lay right. I use the iron so rarely that my son asked what it was one day. Hmm… oh well!

Craftzine shows how to make beautiful fabric brooches. This is a great way to use up some of that scrap fabric you have laying around.

Get Inspired:

Creative Organizing has a great post on how to tame kitchen clutter. There are some great ideas in this one!

Design Mom has some great solutions for inexpensive window coverings, although the expensive solutions are extremely beautiful too!

Amy's Notebook 04.19.2007

Be Mom of the Year:

The Goody Blog has a great entry on some tips for your next Disney vacation and how to maximize your visit there with your children. These are great tips for anyone going to an amusement park this summer. Don’t miss our article on the ten best activities for children at Walt Disney.

Make your kids some S’mores Cupcakes courtesy of Sew Darn Cute. Yummy!

Be Cheap:

The Family CEO has an excellent post on twenty-five easy things she does to save money.
Poorer Than You has five quick tips for cheap air travel.

Have a Martha Moment:

Pleasant View Schoolhouse has a great entry on making a chicken pot pie. Yummy!

My Home Redux has a great post on how to quickly update rooms in your house. Guess what? They are cheap!

DIY Maven has found some new uses for tin ceiling tiles.

Design Mom points out how to make fabric covered push pins. These are so cute!

Get Inspired:

Zen Habits has come up with a great entry on steps to make mail & paperwork painless.

Lifehacker has a great post on some tips for organizing your desk. I try to organize this area of our home, but somehow it always goes back to mad chaos!

Shakhammer has a great post on adding crown molding to your cabinets. This is something we
would like to do when we renovate our kitchen.

The Simple Dollar has a great list of fifteen free things to do during a money-free weekend. I love the idea of a money-free weekend and am hoping to try this with our family.

In the Trenches of Motherhood has an excellent post on taking good photographs. This is first in her series and she is beginning with framing your subjects. I am looking forward to future posts from this series as I don’t like to pay for professional photos.

Apartment Therapy has come up with compact solutions for changing stations.

Home Ec 101 has a great post on how to keep that smelly cat litter box clean.

News You Need to Know:

Punny Money (one of my favorite fun reads!) has debunked the myth that receiving a tax refund is bad for you.

The Good Blog shares tips for talking about tragedies with your children. How sad that this needs to be discussed right now…our prayers are with these families.

Amy's Notebook 04.12.2007

Be Mom of the Year:

Poorer Than You has a great entry filled with sites to help you teach your children about finances. Utilize some of these resources when teaching your children about money.

Scribbit has an excellent entry on fun ways you can teach your children table manners. I love her ideas and plan to implement these in our house.

The Lazy Organizer has a fabulous series on teaching your children to work. It is funny and insightful. As someone who is beginning this with our four year old, I have enjoyed reading these entries.

One Hour Craft has a great tutorial on how to start a garden with your children. I adore this entry!

Parent Hacks have a great entry on how to begin homeschooling with your children and free homeschooling resources you can use.

Be Cheap:

My Money Blog has a list of free phone numbers that you should program into your cell phone. This will definitely save you some billing charges on your phone bill!

The Simple Dollar has a great entry on things that seem expensive, but don't have to be. I particularly love the one on starting your own business. Be sure to read this!

Have a Martha Moment:

Creative Organizing has a great entry on ways you can organize your pantry. I love her little tags and bin ideas. Tis the season to organize, and this provides great inspiration!

Ditch those tired grilled cheese sandwiches made from plain old cheese and bread, and try something different in your grilled sandwich. Goody Blog has a great entry on new ideas for your boring sandwiches.

I saw this featured in Real Simple Magazine (one of my favorite magazines ever!) and thought this would be so cute in a kitchen. How about making clothes hooks out of old silverware? Lifehacker supplies the instructions for making this project happen in your house.

Get Inspired:

The Space Between My Peers has a fabulous entry on wardrobe choices for stay-at-home moms. I noticed that a ponytail and a jog suit were not included. Oh well!

Clever Dude has a great entry on how to breathe new life into that old lawnmower of yours. For most people, this is the season. For us, we still have snow on the ground! Enjoy!

Jeri's Organizing & Decluttering News has a great list of sites you can use to swap the belongings you already have. I can't wait to really go through this list as there are so many sites to choose from.

As if the entry above wasn't enough motivation for getting your pantry organized, read Not Made of Money's list of reasons why a disorganized pantry costs you money.

Selling a house is difficult. Selling a house with kids running around is even more difficult. Parent Dish has a great entry on tips you can use when trying to sell your house and keep it ready for the realtor. This is a great entry- don't miss it!

News You Can Use:

Jenn, over at Frugal Upstate, has a great site that she found for creating pictures for your profile. I tried it out and it worked like a dream. If your picture is looking a little outdated on your MySpace, You Tube, or blog accounts- update it with her suggestion! Great find, Jenn!

It's Not about Your Stuff! found a handy tool for calculating percentages that makes it as easy as pie. Bookmark that resource!

Have a student loan with Sallie Mae? Be sure to read Make Love, Not Debt's entry on how Upromise has partnered with the company to help you pay down your existing loans faster. Excellent, excellent tip!

Have a child suffering from eczema? Parent Dish has a great entry on a homemade recipe you can use to help treat your child's eczema. Best of all, it doesn't cost an arm and a leg.

Shakhammer has an awesome entry on how to care for granite countertops. Hint: they are NOT indestructible!

Crafty Daisies has a great entry on how to figure out what type of fabric you bought by doing a burn test. As someone who frequently buys fabric from thrift stores, this is a goldmine of information!

Thinking Blogger Awards

I was so thrilled to see that I was nominated with a Thinking Blogger Award from Home Ec 101. Those ladies rock and if you haven't had an opportunity to visit their site, I highly encourage it. I am very grateful for the nomination and I am looking forward to sharing a few of my own favorite blogs that I think should be nominated.

1. Scribbit- She is one of my absolute favorite bloggers and every day that I read it, I learn a little more about her family and her life in Alaska. She is a creative parent, a thinker, crafty, and an amazing writer. Her blog inspires me creatively and is a pleasure to read. If you are a blogger, she writes some great tutorials for gaining traffic and becoming known within the blogging community.

2. the homespun heart- Monica is such a great blogger whom I always look forward to reading. Her blog focuses on enjoying the simple pleasures in life. I look forward to her creative ideas for the home and the crafts that she comes up with during the holidays. I try to check this blog daily because I truly enjoy it that much!

3. Fish Creek House- I came across this blog more recently, but it is already one of my favorites. It is a wonderful journal filled with stories on how they built their own dream home bed and breakfast in Montana. They share their recipes, tips on how to explore the great outdoors, and tips on traveling.

4. Rookie Moms- This blog is an excellent resource for finding things to do with your children. It is the type of blog that I wish I had when I first became a mom, as it is filled with great activities for you to do with your child. The activities are broken down by age brackets and categories, making it easy to find just what you need when you need it. These ladies are fabulous, and you can tell that they put a lot of effort into this blog! Kudos to you!

5. The Simple Dollar- What can I say about this blog? It is a wealth of knowledge and I am in complete amazement at how much information is offered each day. The posts are thought-provoking and takes the art of saving money to new heights. This blog is worth your time invested in reading through their extensive archives.

Should they accept the award, these are the rules of the game:

1. If, and only if, you get tagged, write a post with links to 5 blogs that make you think,

2. Link to this post so that people can easily find the exact origin of the meme,

3. Optional: Proudly display the ‘Thinking Blogger Award’ with a link to the post that you wrote (here is an alternative silver version if gold doesn’t fit your blog).

Again, many thanks to Home Ec 101 for their thoughtful nomination!

Amy's Notebook 04.05.2007

Be Mom of the Year:

Baby Cheapskate shares some fun (did I mention free?) Easter projects that you can do with the kiddos.

Like Merchant Ships shares a few tips on how to enjoy shopping with your children. The General Store idea that Meredith offers up is one of my favorites and I am looking forward to trying this with our kids.

Be Cheap:

Savvy Saver reminds us that the generic version of products is not always the cheapest. This is a great reminder to us to start checking the labels a bit more carefully.

Check out Personal Finance Advice’s ten simple ways that you can save on vitamins. There is lots of great information in this post, so don’t miss it!

My Money Blog has an excellent entry on the tricks that car salesman use to get you to buy cars from them.

Simply Thrifty reminds us to always ask local retailers if they are running any specials. I try to do this, but sometimes I do forget. Thanks for the reminder, Simply Thrifty!

Have a Martha Moment:

Visit Craftzine for a great tutorial on how to sew on flat buttons.

My dear buddy over at Harper Collins, the amazing Felicia Sullivan, is posting a contest on letter writing and I am definitely game for this. Thank you for encouraging us in using the good old pen & paper.

Get Inspired:

Not Made of Money shares some tips for running a really good garage sale. Throwing stuff on your lawn will not get you top dollar, but using these tips will.

Frugal Babe shares her latest score from her local Habitat for Humanity store. She offers inspiration on how to make something really work in your house to save yourself some cash.

Free Money Finance challenges you to find a new church if you can’t trust your current church with your money. It is a thought provoking piece of advice that is worthy of your time.

INNside Innkeeping has a great post on caring for and using your microwave. There is lots of great information in this post and this blog is quickly becoming a favorite on my feed.

Frugal Upstate has found a website that helps you read the Bible in a year and all of it is delivered to your email inbox. How easy is that?

News You Need to Know:

Apartment Therapy points toward an article on USA Today entitled, “How to Tell if You’re an Alpha Mom.” Anybody fall into this category?

Amy's Notebook 03.29.2007

Be Mom of the Year:

Don’t toss out your kid’s old socks. I wouldn’t dare suggest making a sock puppet out of them, but visit Parent Hack’s website for another great use for these.

Want to keep track of your child when you are on a trip? Have you ever thought about putting a USB drive around your kid’s neck? This idea is pretty darn amazing, I must say!

Did you know that you can get your infant a free eye exam? Read the Baby Cheapskate post on this wonderful freebie.

Make a birthday cake for your son or daughter for only $2. Moms the Word shares some tips for having a beautiful party cake without spending twenty bucks!

Meredith shows what your kids can accomplish using something someone threw away. Her son seems to have her painting skills. Visit Like Merchant Ships for a cute art project idea.

Be Cheap:

Zen Habits offers great ideas for cheap date nights. Be sure to read this list as there are tons of great ideas on it!

Thrifty Mommy shares four thrifty stain removers. We love thrifty. And we have stains. Thanks, Thrifty Mommy!

Have a Donna Reed Moment:

Scribbit shares some great tips for tulips and a whole heck of a lot of tulip links. Find everything you would ever want to know about this little flower!

Chow offers instructions on how to make your own Peeps. Yum! Who can resist those little guys?

Crafty Daisies shows how to make perfectly hollow eggs to decorate.

Another gardening tip and this one is courtesy of Frugal Upstate. She includes a fabulous tip for making plant markers for only pennies.

Get Inspired:

Amelia, from Sweet Feet Boutique, shares pictures from her new craft space. The colors are wonderful and I love to get inspiration to create my own room to craft in.

News You Need to Know:

Apartment Therapy gives you the scoop on a recent recall on the Infantino Sling sold at Target, Wal-Mart, & Babies R Us. Very scary recall- PLEASE READ!