Those Three R's

Being environmentally responsible doesn’t have to be hard. In fact, in a surprising number of ways, it is an easier and less expensive way to live. Its important to reduce your footprint in the local landfills. One important and easy way is through reusing items throughout your house. Its important to learn the difference between the three R's: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

Reducing is perhaps the hardest to do, because most of the products that are recyclable are convenience containers. Water bottles are the biggest problem, that is the easiest to fix. Get a plastic or aluminum bottle and fill them with water at home. What other ways can you reduce the amount you use?

Most communities have a recycling program, where you put out your cleaned recyclable items in a tub and put it out with your garbage. To increase the amount your house recycles keep bins handy. Get the kids involved. Explain what happens when you recycle, and how easy it is to do so.

Reusing is sometimes a harder thing to do. You occasionally have to be creative in these reuses. Today we're going to help inspire you with a little help from Howy.com. 

Cooking Tip: Sauteing and Roasting Vegetables WITHOUT Oil

Did you know that some stores offer demonstrations? Grocery stores offer some cooking basics demonstrations, home improvement stores offer home improvement project demonstrations, and craft stores offer craft demonstrations. ABMS found a new website that we love, HomemadeMothering.com, that offers many different things. Recently the author attended one of these demonstrations about cooking and sauteing vegetables without any sort of oil. Didn't know that? Neither did we at ABMS. So in an effort to cut out the excess oil in your life, read up on what they learned...

Insane Video Alert: Burger Art!

I don't know whether to be grossed out by this or enthralled... But either way, you gotta watch it and decide on your own!

How To Enjoy Gardening With Your Kids

So many kids these days are into video games and tuned into some other sort of electrical equipment. Its time to take them back in the good ol' days. Take them outside and get them down n dirty. Today's article is about how to enjoy the garden with your kids. Don't make it a chore to weed, explain the purpose behind it... Here are some more helpful tips and tricks.

Girl Scout Cookie Series: Take #8 Lemonades

A favorite lemon-flavored take on the shortbread cookie.  Light, crispy, and so simple to make, you won’t believe how lovely these little cookies are to make. To finish out our Girl Scout cookie series, ABMS brings you... Lemonades.

Girl Scout Cookie Series: Take #7 Lemon Coolers

These are another of the discontinued styles of Girl Scout Cookies. If you had the opportunity to enjoy the originals, give these a shot!

Girl Scout Cookie Series: Take #6 Cinna-Spins

Some types of Girl Scout cookies are only available to certain areas, its just demographics. Now this cookie must've been not very popular in our area but I would've tried them. How can you go wrong with a homemade version of one of the few low-fat versions of girl scout cookies they offer? This cookie, christened the Cinna-Spin was released a few years ago, and is still not available in all areas. For an even cuter and tastier cookie, go ahead and add the icing. It’s too easy to make, just combine a cup of powdered sugar and about 1 -3 teaspoons of milk. Just very slowly add the milk to the sugar until you get the right consistency, then drizzle over baked cookies when they are still warm. (Warning: the addition of icing doesn't make them low-fat)

Girl Scout Cookie Series: Take #5 Trefoils

Trefoils were before my cookie-buying days but I thought we should have some classics added to our series too. This cookie is a classic shortbread cookie, one that you may know (and love) from the good ol' days with a bit of amped flavor due to an ingredient substitution.

Girl Scout Cookie Series: Take #4 Peanut Butter Patties

These are one of my favorite kinds of cookies. Back in the day they were called Tag-a-longs, but have since taken on the roll of Peanut Butter Patties.

The cookie is crisp and a bit plain, although the hint of vanilla in it highlights the peanut butter filling. The chocolate is best in a thin layer, holding everything together in a neat package.

Girl Scout Cookie Series: Take #3 The Caramel DeLites

Caramel de-Lites aren't my favorite Girl Scout Cookie, as I'm not the biggest fan of coconut, but I do know they top my aunt's and dad's list. So I figured I should include them in this series. Caramel de-Lites were formerly named Samoas and since that's a little shorter to say, that's what they call them in the following guide on making your own.

Girl Scout Cookie Series: Take #2 Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookie

We're continuing the Girl Scout cookie series today, with a classic Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookie recipe. These cookies were formerly referred to as Do-Si-Dos, which is why they are called that in the following recipe.

Girl Scout Cookie Series: Take #1 Homemade Thin Mints

As I'm sure you all know its Girl Scout Cookie time. I'm sure you've all been hit up by your neighbors, coworkers, family members and children of friends. And I'm all for supporting such a fine organization. I was a girl scout. Not for long (my troop met 35-40 minutes away from my house), but I was one. Anyway, most people stock up on these boxes of cookies around this time of year, and it appears that the organization has gotten seriously smart about it. Cash n Carry is a genius idea and approach.

But what about the other 10 and a half months after the eight boxes you bought are all gone? Well then you make your own! This is a short series we're gonna do that will keep that Girl Scout craving satisfied all year long. Plus we've stumbled upon some retired Girl Scout cookie recipes so you can get that taste back in your mouth that you've been missing.

Best of Both Desserts

There are two desserts that I have loved for a good chunk of my life: Chocolate Chip Cookies and the Triple Chocolate Meltdown (from a certain former employer). Well I happened to find this recipe, and let me tell you I can not wait to test it out. I mean it literally is the best of both desserts.

All you really need for these fabulous cookies is your favorite cookie dough and a bag of chocolate chips. I prefer my grandmother's cookie dough, you could just as easily use a store-bought mix or even refrigerated cookie dough. Slice and bake cookie dough would be so simple here!

Drooping Flowers

By now those flowers your significant other got you Tuesday are showing a smidgen of wear. Nobody likes droopy flowers. I personally have a shoebox of flower petals from flowers I've ever gotten from my husband. They could be from the full bouquet or just a couple of my favorite flowers. It varies from bunch to bunch. But there are roses from random days, daisies from birthdays, carnations from bad days... I have lots. But today's video (from Howcast) is going to show you how you can recycle your flowers from this week. Take a look!

Insane Video Alert: Wine Bottle Cutting With A String

You know how I'm a sucker for insane videos, particularly of ones that I thought would be impossible. Like I literally never knew you could cut a wine bottle. I guess I just never thought to try. But in today's video you learn how to do it! Watch!

The Married Dating Scene

I couldn't think of an exciting idea for this the loveliest and equally sickening day of the year. Personally I think its silly to only commemorate your love for your spouse one day a year. Its silly to use some commercialized day to boost the greeting card and boxed chocolates sales. Particularly if, like me, you're not a big fan of the boxed chocolates (I mean who really likes EVERY flavor of chocolate in that box?) It seems to me that it would be far more important, and even challenging, to show your spouse you love them every day. Some silly little thing. I know my husband, and I know what makes his day/night. My favorite thing in the world is finding out more about him. What he was like before he met me, and where he wants to be in ten years. I love making him smile, and I love when he makes me smile (not that these moments are rare...) But I do feel that its important to keep the spice and spark of a new relationship alive, even if you've been together 25 years. So with the help of the people at Kaboose, we bring you How To Date Your Spouse.

Calming the Storm

We've all seen it. That stressed out DIY bride that has only 24 hours in her day and needs about 40. The one who has monster-in-law or mother-of-the-bride drama to tend to on top of that planning schedule. Or the one who wants to hand create each of her 500 wedding favors by hand, but has no help from those damn bridesmaids. She has that harried look, that you hope will disappear before the big day, and is practically wearing a name tag that says Bridezilla (or maybe actually is sporting the name tag or shirt) Stress can kill the fun of wedding planning, right quick and in a hurry. But we've tracked down some stress management techniques to calm that pretty face, and some things that you can do to send that stress on a hiatus even if its just for one day.

Do You Believe?

The book that is being reviewed, or at least recommended, today is Heaven is For Real. First I should tell you that I cried in this book too, but only during one chapter. I'll even tell you the chapter name: Two Sisters. It is an easy to read book, that is very humbling. I flew through the book over the course of a couple hours. (Don't get too excited, I'm a fast reader, whipping through those 400-700 Harry Potter books in a matter of two or three days) I loved this book. I borrowed it from a coworker and may just buy it for my Nook. Its one of those books that should be read, even if your one of those "I believe in God, but I don't do the church scene" folk like me. I believe in the many things, and am one of those who is the first to say a prayer when I need something (but rarely just to check in). I am partially ashamed of this, but you know it's something I'm working towards. Anyway, rabbit trail. Back to the book, I would highly recommend it.

Velveteen Rice Krispies

I have a stockpile of things I want to put on this blog, but when I found this one I couldn't wait to post it. Its nearly Valentines Day and if you're on the committee for treats or if your just one of those people who likes to make treats. You'll definitely love this one. You can't go wrong, cake and Rice Krispies. If you’re making these to just eat, no need to get fancy but if you’re making them for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day, you’ll want to check out Wilton’s selection of cookie cutters. They have this really nice set of heart shaped cutters that includes 4 different sizes and 2 of them with scalloped edges that would be great for fancy shaped cookies.

Insane Video Alert! - How To Make Your Own Beating Heart

No this isn't some horrific science experiment, or some stab at the Tell Tale Heart. Its actually art related. Origami is the traditional Japanese art of paper folding. I love origami. I don't know why, I just do. People can do some pretty amazing things with paper. However, I only seem able to ever make those fortune tellers from middle school... maybe even fourth grade. However, in light of the holiday season, I couldn't resist this video. Its amazing. I'll admit I was a little skeptical that it would beat, but you'll just have to watch to prove it to your self.

First Steps After the 'Yes!'

Once you get engaged, you may be in a daze. But there's lots to do! So as soon as you snap out of that "happy foggy" phase then you should get to planning. The biggest thing I can recommend is to start with organizing and stay organized. Have a binder, preferably the kind that zip. Mine happened to be a free one from my cousin, that was a National Guard binder. Inside it had several pockets and pouches that I used for hairstyle magazines, and business cards. You know how you go to bridal fairs and there's oodles and oodles of cards, and information packets? The best thing is to sort them out in your binder. Also in my binder were folders, each was labeled: Attire & Beauty, Locations, Registries, Photography, Cakes & Catering, Entertainment, Gifts, etc. This was an important thing as I was incessantly finding things online that I wanted to do, had notes to myself (like what kinds of candy I wanted at the candy bar), and then all the 'goodies' from those fairs. Now, as you make decisions its important to clear out the folders to keep yourself organized. Like say, once you chose a location weed out papers about other locations. Keep all important papers (ie. contracts) in there with your chosen location pamphlet. (Keep the pamphlet for pictures and to put into your scrapbook!) Same thing with photographers. Once you've selected your photographer, throw out the others but keep the 'chosen one' along with the pictures you want taken, that photographers packages, and whatever relevant information you'd like. This weeding will save you time later on.

We've checked out other sites such as Howy.com and TheKnot.com, and got some other helpful tips too! Be sure you check them out.

Whip It!

I know that Valentines Day is fast approaching and that your head is reeling with what you are expecting from your significant other. Now I realize the audience of this blog is predominantly female, so I guess this is more what you can do for your significant other.

My husband is a rare breed. He's big into people watching. Its the old man in him coming out already. He likes ice cream (shakes particularly) but isn't a fan of whip cream. He doesn't mind chocolate but would prefer dextrose sort of stuff instead (sweet tarts, gobstoppers, even jelly beans). Not too mention the fact that chocolate fountains are messy and strawberries are rare in our house due to my allergy. He likes eggs but not cheese. He IS a guy, and come on what guy admits they like flowers. So, what do I get him...

Insane Video Alert!- Log Lamp Shade

I know this site is about DIY and things of that nature. But unless you've got years of wood turning experience, you just can't do this. Its an incredible video and you must watch it. I have a slower connection speed but after a few buffering moments I made it through... I hope you will too!!

The only thing that bugs me is that it seems like an incredible waste of wood, but it may just be worth it for that look.

Help from the Shelf

A New Category! (My, we are getting quite a few huh?) I am an avid reader of books. Don't get me wrong, a good movie always gets me too. I've found however that movies and books are different. Most of the time the movie wants you to infer details, books are all about creating the picture for you. So I've decided that we need a review section, or at least an excerpt page. I am no Ebert, and clearly reviews aren't how I make a living, but I thought everyone should have a place where they could talk about that latest book you just read or movie you'd highly recommend.

Whether its a Dr. Seuss book (I mean come on, A Fox In Socks?), an inspirational time-changer, or a chick-lit book you try to imagine it. Its an amazing world, reading. There are so many kinds of books. Don't like reading about fiction? Try reading a book about history, or merge the two and read about conspiracy theories. Conspiracy theories are enough to launch anyone's imagination into the world of doubt. I'm notorious for saying, "If you don't like to read, you're not reading the right stuff." Think about your favorite movie... Chances are there is a genre of books for you to choose from.

Crazy Mixed Up Tastiness

There are many recipes out there that we would have never thought to put together. Most of the time they are pure genius ideas too! If you're anything like me, you've watched that show Cupcake Wars seen their insane concoctions, and thought Honestly how would they come up with the idea to put that into a cupcake?! It can't honestly taste that good.... But that crazy French dude, 'e alwayz speeks iz mined... so maybe they are. So today we've got four recipes, that even I might be willing to attempt one day... Question is are you daring enough to try them? Are you a big enough fan to eat Mountain Dew Cake? Or taste-test out some Velveeta Fudge? [90s flashback here] Do You Have It? GUTS!

Party It Up! Lego-Style

One of the authors at ABMS has a rather large family and one of her younger brothers recently had a Lego-themed birthday party. You may be thinking how much can you honestly do with a generic Lego theme, short of just requesting people bring Lego-brand gifts. Oh, they got creative. Covering all their bases, read on to find out how you can create this special birthday for your little guy... Heck with the new "girl" Legos, either gender would be stoked!

Gardening 101

Here in the Midwest, we've had virtually no winter. Seriously, the last couple days of January we had 60 degree weather, no exaggeration. (Not that I'm complaining) So I figured, you've all got spring fever. Itching to get outside and get your hands in the flower beds and to till up that garden patch of yours. Now, as I've stated before, gardening is just not my thing. But we can't only have one article in the down n dirty category. So I've committed myself to doing some research and finding ways to perhaps peak my interest. Its not that I don't enjoy the aesthetics of gardening. I like the thought of getting fresh cucumbers out of the garden and eating fresh tomatoes. I love flowers, and trees and shrubs for the most part. But I just can't do it. So, we're gonna learn together. Today we'll be getting some helpful beginners info from TheBestGardeningInfo.com. Gear on up, kids, 'cause its time to get down n dirty.

Game Day Favorites

Here in the ABMS lab we have some big football fans. Who can blame us? I mean between that and hockey how many sports are there where you can pummel the crud out of the opponent, get minor penalization, and still have another objective. We're big on multi-tasking at ABMS and while some of our favorite teams aren't in the big game it doesn't mean that we won't bask in the fellowship and opportunity to hang out with other football fans (and watch some pretty pricey commercials for beer and chips). So, that being said, you can't have a party without food. So we've accumulated some Game Day recipes to get your bash out of the "picking up fried chicken and a bag of chips" funk.

Super Easy Valentines Day Crafts for You And The Kids

Crafts are an amazing thing. You would be surprised at how excited kids get to sit down and make a big mess with glue, glitter, stickers, scissors, the works. A on-going project I had at my house for one of my younger brothers was a book he was making. I simply recycled a cereal box: cut one side panel out of the box and the top and bottom panels. Create a fold down the center of the other side panel and staple or fasten with string or yarn a notebook or a stack of computer paper. Then let them go crazy. I had all sorts of stickers from scrapbooking, coloring books he could cut people out of (as opposed to trying to draw people which can get tricky and frustrating), markers, crayons and all sorts of colored paper. It also helped him work on his writing skills (a secret bonus) as he would write the captions for each page in his story. The moral of this story? You can easily use up a few spare hours on a rainy day with something fun, practical (hello cutting skills) and educational... but they just think its fun! Note: Keep a wet washcloth on hand for those glue spills.