Freezing Lemon Juice & Lemon Zest !

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Freezing Lemon Juice & Lemon Zest.    
If you are like me and some times have a basket full of lemons and then find a few have gone mouldy,because you hadn't got around to using them as yet.That is such a waste! Freezing them will prevent this happening in the future. So when lemons are in season and plentiful, I recommend zesting and juicing them .Then you can put them in a plastic bag or container and pop into the freezer,then when you need lemon juice or zest you will have your own supply in the freezer. Great to use for salad dressings , hot lemon and honey drinks, zest is great for biscuits and cakes. So many uses!


                  

Natural Shoe Polish !

Natural Shoe Polish !
The inside of the banana peels make great shoe polish .
After eating your banana rub the inside of the peel all over your shoes ,then with a dry cloth polish them all over. Then you will have lovely clean shoes, then you can put the banana peel into the compost or give it to the worms. Way better then using toxic shoe polish , great for the environment too. If you haven't tried it ,I recommend you give it a try. Best of all its free and safe to use ! I've done it for years and it works great !

Drink Bottles !

Drink Bottles!
Save your herbal supplement plastic bottles they make great juice/water bottles for children's lunch boxes.These ones I have
are made from safe food grade plastic no (2).
They come in different sizes, which are great for small children who don't want to drink a lot. I thought it would be a great idea for the warmer weather to fill them up with juice or water and freeze them .If you had lots of them you could do them once a week for school lunch boxes have them in the freezer ready for each day !
They could also be used to take milk to make cups of tea or coffee if you take a flask of boiling water with you! If they get lost its no real big loss also great for travelling ! They are also very easy to clean !
If anyone has any ideas for other uses please post and tell us all !

Our Rain Water Tank Was Hit By Lightning Last Night !

This is a photo of the outside and the other photo was taken of the inside of the tank you can see the side bottom has blown out . So we have no water to drink,( we have about 5 litres in a container in the kitchen), shower or flush our toilets ! We have bore water but it's too salty to drink. Today we went and brought a smaller rainwater tank 720 litres to fill for drinking water. I'm praying for lots of rain tonight ! We have filled buckets of bore water so we can flush our toilets wash our dishes and wash our hands. I had to boil a kettle of bore water to wash the dishes ! life can be very interesting at times ! Thank god it wasn't the house !

Insurance company assessor will be coming tomorrow at 12 noon to assess the damage.

So that was our adventure for today !Come on rain ! I may do a rain dance later on ! Kev has just informed me they don't expect rain for another week ! Will definitely do a rain dance .

The 720 litre rainwater tank we bought just for drinking water, It got full on the first night . It was something we were going to do one day have been talking about it for a few years now. can't rush these things lol ! That way every year we can give it a flush out and refill with clean water !

Great news our insurance company are going to cover the damage we are getting a new rain water tank and liner next week ! It comes with a 20 year warranty on the tank and liner !
Also we have ordered a waterboy I will do a blog on that when we get it installed it oxygenates the water !

Quinoa Salad !

Quinoa Salad !
Here is our favorite Quinoa salad .
It's very delicious, very easy and very nutritious.
First you need to cook the quinoa .
1 cup of quinoa to two cups of water with lid on bring to the boil , boil for a minute then turn off, leave for 20 minutes with lid on (I have soild hotplates if you don't then simmer for about 10 minutes turn off keep lid on and leave for 20 minutes ).Then I chop up 1 Spanish /red onion 2 medium tomatoes,then I add a cup of frozen peas, 1 teaspoon dried mint (dried has a more intense flavor then fresh ). Then I make a dressing in a jar 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil juice of 1medium lemon and 1 teaspoon honey, I shake it really well until milky in colour . Mix the cooked quinoa with all the other ingredients pour over the dressing add salt ( I use celtic salt ) and mix well . I sometimes add a little fresh chopped parsley and a few chopped spring onions also add finely grated lemon zest from the lemon adds a lovely flavour! Serve it with chicken, fish,beef,pork or lamb. We will quite often just have a bowl of it for a meal . I will add 1/2  avocado to my bowl for lunch or dinner !
Note: You can add what ever you like eg cucumber, celery, corn, capsicum ! the list could go on . Experiment ! Enjoy

Our Public Library !

Our Public Library !
We love using our library. We rarely ever go to the video store any more because we request all of the latest DVDs from the library. It's such a huge saving ! I remember years ago taking my eldest 2 sons to the library and every one was saying sh,sh,sh, it's wasn't very child friendly, from then on I hardly ever took them again . I think libraries realised if they wanted to encourage the younger generation to come to the libraries then they need to do things to encourage them. I used to take my youngest son when he was two to the library every Friday morning for story time, which he really loved.
They had one of the librarians read a story then they would do an activity that was usually about the story a craft project or colouring in !On special occasions they would even provide morning tea for the parents and children. My son Jack is nearly 8 and he still loves going to the library. They also have holiday program activities for children . I recommend you go to your local library and see what they have on offer .Our library has an adult book club, there is always something happening .Jack loves playing the game snakes and ladders. (even though we have our own at home ) they have an assortment of board games and puzzles.
Read the latest magazines, get the latest DVDs, request the latest books, free Internet access (our library has) you will need to check your local library because they are all different .You can even set up an account to use the library on line its fabulous . We often get on line and request what we want ,then they email us to let us know when it has arrived for us to collect ! I would  thoroughly recommend you all check out your local library if you haven't already .I think you will be pleasantly surprised .

Kitchen Scrap Bucket

Kitchen Scrap Bucket !
This is our kitchen scrap bucket for all our scraps !
It was an old nappy bucket that was last used for that purpose nearly 8 years ago ! We line it with news paper and fill with scraps, when filled we dig a hole in the garden and bury it.
We have too many scraps for our worm farm so we use both . If you are about to plant a fruit tree put a bucket of scraps in the hole then the tree, great fertilizer for the tree !

Popcorn Cups !

Popcorn cups !
I love finding uses for things that would otherwise just be thrown into the rubbish bin. I think it's great when it can at least be used again and again for some thing else before it goes into the rubbish !
I'm trying to find uses for the 1 kilo yoghurt container's I have.
I thought why not use them for popcorn cups. You can purchase popcorn containers I 've seen in the shops from between $2-$4 each, way too expensive I think , imagine you had a family of 5 and wanted one each that would be $10-$20 for popcorn cups ! When you can re-use your youghurt containers for free !So make some popcorn fill the containers one for every one in the family ,get out the DVDs sit back and eat and relax and enjoy the movie !
Note: If you are using them for a child's party wrap a piece of paper around the cup and write child's name on it ,that way no one will be eating some one else's popcorn !

Freeze Your Ginger.

Freeze your ginger !
If you are like me and buy ginger and it gets put into the crisper in the fridge and because its so small gets lost in there and forgotten about until you find it one day and its started to go mouldy  ! Then this is a great tip for you , now when I buy ginger I peel it with a teaspoon chop it up and put in a zip lock bag or container and pop in the freezer .Now when I need a piece of ginger I take it out chop it up finely or grate it for my recipe, no more waste ! ( I have to tell the truth, every now and then I forget to do this, last time I brought organic ginger for $30 a kilo and it got wasted). Not any more ,I hope I learnt my lesson It's really annoying when you're making a recipe and it calls for ginger and you know you have some in the fridge only to find it has gone mouldy. Well never again, I will freeze it in future.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil !
I don't waste any of my money on face creams! It always makes me laugh when I see advertisements for face creams . Usually they are maybe 20 year olds with flawless skins or that much makeup to appear they have flawless skins to try and convince women that they too can look this good is they use this product. It is a chemical concoction of who knows what, you would need a science degree to know what most of the ingredients are. And do you want to put them on your skin , Do they really work ? In my opinion no they do not . In my opinion they are a total waste of money. I haven't used any creams on my face,or body for well over 20 years now and I never ever would. All I use on my face and body is pure extra virgin organic cold pressed unrefined, un-bleached, un-hydrogenated, un-deodorised coconut oil. If you have dry lips,hands ,legs elbows etc please try coconut oil.
You can purchase it from most health food stores very cheaply. Compare the price to what you spend on face creams and you'll be amazed . You will be more amazed at the results , it nourishes and moisturises your skin. It's great to use for massages ! Another great use is to use it for a vaginal lubrication . I have a motto if I cannot read whats on the label I don't want to put it on or in my body ! I purchase it in 2 litres bottles and put it in glass jars and have a few around the house. I also cook with coconut oil some times ! Do your own research to find out so much more about coconut oil you will be amazed .
Note: Bruce Fife, ND has written many books on the subject of coconut !
Also after a comment from KJ it reminded me its also good to use for hair gel and really dry hair !



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Other Ideas: Gosh I could probably do a blog just on coconut oil . Use on baby bottoms instead of using all those nasty potions & lotions. Good for cracked nipples while breastfeeding ! As I think of other uses I will keep posting !

Sodium fluoride is alleged to protect our teeth, but it's actually a poisonous chemical that causes cancer, damages the nervous system, and even creates weak teeth and bones. Fluoride is common in rat poison, and the German Nazis added it to prisoners' water - because it's known to placate people and make them easier to control. If you haven't already done so, now is the time to dump your fluoride toothpaste.  So use coconut oil to brush your teeth it feels lovely !

Twelve Creative Ways to Use Coconut Oil


Colds and Sore Throats - Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that can help you recover from a cold. Mix it with warm herbal tea and honey for a very soothing throat remedy.

Cuts and Scrapes - Coconut oil can be used as a topical cream for common cuts and scrapes, protecting against infection while conditioning the skin to heal faster. It may also prevent scarring.

Dandruff - Several times per week, coat your fingertips with coconut oil and massage into your scalp for an easy dandruff remedy. This is an effective yet gentle method, suitable for young children or babies with cradle cap, too.

Deodorant - You can use coconut oil by itself as a deodorant that leaves underarms feeling silky soft, or you can add sodium bicarbonate and cornstarch for advanced odor protection.

Detoxification - There are many methods for detoxifying the body, but coconut oil is unique because it can provide energy while cleansing the body. One popular method is to take 5 ml of coconut oil seven times per day for one to seven days to help the body eliminate toxins, impurities and candida.

Fungal Infections - Coconut oil contains strong antifungal agents, and can be used to address fungal infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, thrush and vaginal yeast infections. You can take it internally and use it topically for these conditions.

Hair Conditioner - Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to your scalp and hair. Allow it to soak for several minutes and then wash as usual. There is no need to use other conditioners with this method, even after washing with shampoo.

Lip Balm - Lip moisturizers are filled with chemicals, and natural products are often pricey. If you need a moisturizer for your lips, pour coconut oil into a commercial lip balm container.

Makeup Remover - Coconut oil is a very effective makeup remover, so you can toss out all the chemical-laden products from the drug store. It's also a natural moisturizer, so it won't cause dryness or irritation.

Skin Conditions - Since coconut oil is moisturizing, antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory, it's a great natural remedy for skin problems ranging from eczema to acne to diaper rash.

Sunscreen - Coconut oil provides effective and natural sun protection without exposing your body to the toxic chemicals and metals in conventional sunblock. Coconut oil protects against free radicals, which provides added protection against skin cancer.

Toothpaste - Mix equal amounts of coconut oil and sodium bicarbonate for an all-natural, fluoride-free toothpaste. Add spearmint or peppermint oil with stevia for a fresh, sweet flavor.

Solar Panels

Solar Panels.
Kev my partner and I had talked about getting solar panels installed to help save money and help save the planet.Then the federal government was offering an $8,000 rebate, so we went ahead and signed up in May and we got our solar panels installed on the 3rd of November 2009. My partner Kev has done spread sheets to monitor how much power we make and use.I'm really looking forward to the 1st August because we will finally start getting paid 47 cents a kilowatt hour (KWh). 40cents from the state government fixed for ten years and 7cents from synergy which will be reviewed every 12 months . With the price of power going up all the time, I'm so glad we got our solar panels, we currently save  25% off our power bill. We are thinking about adding more panels. I love the idea that we are making power, and doing our bit to save our beautiful planet . I look forward to getting more panels and receiving cheques instead of bills, now that does sound good ! reducing our carbon foot print .

Does any one receive cheques from their electricty supplier for more then their bills are ?
The question is : Is any one making money from their solar power ?

Pearly White Teeth !

Do you want to have pearly white teeth !
Are your teeth looking not as white as you would like them to look . Well here is a really easy tip .
Buy some bi-carb sprinkle a little on your tooth brush and brush as usual and they will look sparkling clean and white !

Apple Cutter !

Apple Cutter !
The apple cutter is fabulous.
Friends brought if for me from Ikea which was a lovely surprise and I've been using it a lot . I cooked roast pork last weekend and made a pot of apple sauce I peeled and cut the apples very quickly with my new kitchen gadget . I've made a few apple cakes which require a kilo of apples each time . It's a real time saver !
I've been experimenting with it ,to find out what else I can cut with it I will continue to do so and post any updates on my success and failure attempts.  So far I've used it to cut potato wedges, cut tomatoes with success. Tried  to cut an orange that some one had suggested to me , my thought was it would squirt every where which it did . Been thinking of trying it on onions I haven't as yet . I would highly recommend it to you all  if you haven't got one already !. A real time saver !

Mung Bean Sprouts

Do Your Own Sprouts !
Here in the jar are sprouted mung beans.
They are very easy to do, all you  need is a jar and some mesh to cover the top with an elastic band to secure it . (You can use an old piece of stocking, muslin, cheese cloth or netting)so the water can run out but the sprouts don't fall out. First I put 1/2 a cup of dried mung beans in a glass jar, then I soak the beans for about 4 hours in warm water.
Then I rinse them ,leave over night ,next morning rinse again leave over night .next day they will be ready to eat. They will have little white shoots on them . Put them in the fridge and use within a few days . In the hot weather they will need rinsing a few times a day .
Note: They are nice tossed through salads, they are also nice with mayonnaise on ryvita biscuits . Can stir them through a soup  they are nice to snack on with sultanas, just a few suggestions ! Eat and enjoy ! they are very nutritious !

Welcome To All My Followers !

Welcome to you all, very glad to have you here !

So glad you're all following my blog  !

I hope you use many of the tips to help save money !                 

And use the recycling tips to help save our beautiful planet !

Thank you !

Money Box

Money Box  ( Made from an old baby formula tin)
Make a money box from an old baby formula tin .
Cut a hole out in the plastic top so the coins can be put in the top . Cover with fabric or paper with clear contact .
They make great gifts for all the children in the family, put in a few coins and there you have it ! Couldn't be more simple !
And the children will love them I'm sure !

Growing Herbs

Growing Herbs !
If you live in a unit/flat and don't have a yard,then grow pots of herbs on a sunny window sill in side.
I found a use for my 1 kilo yoghurt containers !
Put the pots of herbs inside the yoghurt pots, that way there will be no mess on your window sills.

Getting Rid Of Clutter Eliminates 40% Of Housework In The Average Home !

Now that's a good reason to declutter ! Don't you think !
I just read that in a book called "The One minute Organiser" A to Z Storage Solutions !
I'm always working on decluttering ! I have been for ages and still reading books on how to do!
Even purchased a DVD from the US last year from Peter Walsh ( the declutter Guru from Oprah))
In one of my earlier posts about decluttering, I went to a workshop at Howard's storage world.
I know you are all thinking she should be an expert by now ! I'll let you know when I become one !
So hopefully I will master it one day ! One day soon I hope ! I'm learning things all the time and
putting some into action ! I was talking to my friend Debbie this morning who couldn't find a bill she
had paid. I thought to myself that part of my life is very organised . And I told her what we do ,she
is a work in progress just like myself and probably a million others !

Creamy Broccoli Soup or Creamy Cauliflower Soup !

Creamy Broccoli Soup !
Yesterday I made broccoli soup because I had 3 heads of broccoli in the fridge !
Here is my recipe
I used 2 heads of broccoli
2 medium brown onions
2 large potatoes
1/2 can coconut cream (Ayam 270ml can) use half.
Fry onion in about 1 tablespoon olive oil  for about 10 minutes then add peeled chopped potatoes and chopped up broccoli , put in water just under the vegetables bring to boil then simmer until tender .
When cooked I add half a can of coconut cream then puree I add celtic salt to taste . delicious !
I make a cauliflower soup the same except replace cauliflower instead of broccoli . I usually put a couple of zucchini in both recipes ,but they were too expensive . Note: I use the Ajam brand of coconut cream because its pure coconut . haven't found another brand that is 100% coconut . For a long time I didn't eat dairy products so tried different things when I tried the coconut cream /milk . It was a real winner in taste and texture and health ! happy eating or should I say slurping ! its a terrible habit I know but at home I like slurping my soup ! If I was out for dinner I would try to behave myself !

My Enviro Bags ! (say no to plastic bags )

Enviro Bags !
These are my enviro bags that I make and sell.
I sell them for $7 each + $1 postage & handling for Australian residents only ,if you would like to place an order please post a message and I will get back to you as soon as possible.
They are great for always having one or two in your handbag for those unexpected shopping trips you will never need to get another plastic bag again. (help save our beautiful planet ).
They roll up really small and are made from very light weight 100% cotton fabric and they come in 4 different fabric colours which you can see below.The size is 19 inch width x 18 inch depth or 48cm x 45.5cm.(great to give for gifts I gave them to all my friends and family for presents last year !) Lucky them !
If any one would like to make them they are very easy . If you can sew a straight line you could make them. Actually even if you cannot sew a straight line you could still probably make them ! Give it a go !
Or purchase one or two !




To place an order please email me at sherriec@westnet.com.au
and I will get back to you asap !

My Extra Delicious Apple Cake !

Apple cake (fat free )
This cake is really delicious and tastes cross between an apple cake and an apple pie.
makes a good size cake 24cm square or 9 inch square for the people like me that still work in inches. Or make 24 cakes in 2 muffin trays, cook for 20-25 minutes
Ingredients
2&1/2 cups S.R wholemeal flour
3/4 cup of raw sugar
4 eggs
1/2 cup milk & 1/2 cup water
1 kilo granny smith apples
cinnamon (optional)
In bowl mix eggs add sugar mix well then add liquid then the flour, peel and slice apples ( I used an apple cutter) then I sliced them in half length wise to make them a little thiner. I lined the tin with glad bake put quarter of the mix in tin added half the apples then the rest of the mixture then the rest of the apples.Then I sprinkled cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of sugar on the top .Then I put it into a pre heated oven 160 dregrees C for 55 minutes or until golden brown and cake tester comes out clean . Can serve with a dollop of fresh cream, custard or ice cream . This is one of our favorite cakes ! I'm making it for my middle sons 22nd birthday on Sunday ! I often use the above mix to make 24 cakes in my 2 muffin trays then they only take 20-25 minutes to cook.

Always Have Spring Onions !

Always Have Spring Onions !
If you are like me, when I buy spring onions I end up throwing half away. When I buy onions if any start to sprout in the cupboard I plant them in the garden. When I need spring onions I chop off what I need for my recipe . I use them mostly for  garnishing dishes or I  toss them  through a salad.
Note: They are always fresh and no more waste !

Small Cake Tins !

Small Cake Tins ! (Free )
Save all your Salmon & Tuna tins the 425 gram ones they make great small cake tins , just make sure you use the right can opener that leaves the rim on the top of the tin, other wise they will be too sharp around the top edge .  I use these for making fruit cakes at Christmas time . Later in the year I will post my fruit cake recipe and photo's of how I decorate them for gift giving they look fabulous and taste fabulous !
Note: Not sure what the tins are lined with ! I do and I would recommend you line your tins with brown paper or glad bake as a safe guard !

Mesh Bags

Mesh Bags ! (say no to plastic bags)
I made myself some mesh bags, so when I buy my fruit & vegetables I don't get any plastic bags. I take them with me all the time, with all my green shopping bags. They are very easy to make, I have made 3 sizes ,small ones are for garlic, ginger or if I just want a small amount of some thing & meduim & large ones. I buy mesh fabric from textile traders when they have their specials buy 2 metres & get one free. So that's 3 metres for the price of 2 metres.I've made white, red and brought fabric to make green . I cut fabric to the size I want/need then I fold in half sew up either side with over locker, fold over the top to make a casing then I thread through very thin ribbon then tie ribbon in a knot . If any one wants more details eg photo step process let me know and I will take photo's next time I make some . They have a multitude of uses, great for storing bath toys hang up to drain . (stops mold ). washing delicate underwear in the machine in them . I wrote a list one time of all the uses might post it another time . Almost all the same uses as a plastic bag remember I said almost . Cannot put flour ! great for keeping mushrooms fresh longer in the fridge !

Coconut Mounds

Coconut Mounds !
Here is my recipe for coconut mounds. I use an egg
cup to create the shape.
Ingredients
2 eggs.
450 grams desicated coconut.
300grams raw sugar.
Mix all 3 ingredients together , put mixture into egg cups turn out onto either greased /glad bake lined oven tray .Cook in pre heated oven 160 degrees fan forcd oven for 15-20 minutes or until just lightly golden brown . Store in air tight container when cold . makes about 30 mounds. Note: Some times the mixture can get a little stuck in egg cups. I tried oiling them one time, that didn't help ,just sort of shake them out gently . You could always line the the egg cup with cling wrap and if they get stuck give the plastic a little pull to get it out .If you love coconut you will love these I find it hard to stop at 1, 2,3 you know how it goes !

Tapestry Covered Door-Stop

Make a tapestry door stop !
Here is the door stop I made. All you need is an old brick ,you could pick up one at a building site . A piece of fabric , quite often at curtain shops they have samples/remnants for sale really cheap . Get some batting/wadding that is used for quilt making .
Cover the brick with batting then fabric and sew up the edges. Looks great and does the job of keeping the door open ,otherwise it would slam with the wind . Note: You could use an old pair of jeans , use a thick sturdy fabric, otherwise the rough edges of the brick could rub and tear the corners. You don't have to use batting it just makes it a lot softer under foot when we use it .

Lavender Balls

Lavender Balls !
These are very easy to make and great to give for little gifts. Put them in your clothes draws makes every thing smell lovely, could also put them in your linen cupboard . Helps deter moths and silver fish.
How to make them. Cut circles out of lace fabric, traced around a saucer or bread & butter plate depending on size you would like. Then place some lavender from the garden (most people have it in their garden if not ask a friend ) about a handful ,then gather up and tie a ribbon around tightly.Then fluff out the top to look even, can add a small flower in the top ,they have wire stems insert a little bit of the wire into the whole with a tiny dab of glue. Flowers are available from most craft stores. If you want them to smell stronger put just one drop on lavender oil in the tiny hole before inserting flower . Note: You can use lace curtain remnants, or fine cotton fabrics. I have also heard of people using hankies.

Pumpkin Scones (Rock Cakes)

Pumpkin scones !
They are probably more like a rock cakes my mum always made them and called them pumpkin scones . Either name they are easy , quick and tasty ! You could always cook them in muffin trays then they would be muffins ! I usually always make a double batch when I cook most things , but I only had a small butternut pumpkin that made just over 1 cup . Here is the my recipe makes 12
1 cup cooked mashed pumpkin
1 egg
1/4 cup raw sugar
1/2 cup sultanas (could use dates, mixed fruit  etc)
2 cups wholemeal S.R.flour 
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil .
Mix ingredients together and put big heaped tablespoons of the mixture on a greased or baking paper lined tray. Cook in a pre heated oven 160 degrees C for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden and when a cake tester comes out clean .

Rose Water Perfume

Rose Water Perfume !
I never wear perfume for health reasons,way too many nasty chemicals in it for me ! This is a good one for people with allergies.
I buy rose water and put into a small bottle with a spray top and that is my perfume ,smells just lovely and subtle . Some people can get way to heavy handed with spraying perfume and if you walk past them it just about kills you ! I would make my own rose water if I grew roses , I keep thinking how much I would love to grow roses, then I think how much the possums would love to eat them .
One day I will give it a try ! I would like to plant a row right along the front of our house ! Then I will make my own rose water .
Note: This is also great when we get older and start having hot flushes, you can store it in the fridge and take it with you in your bag for those days you need a little cooling. Just spray  it on your face as needed  it really helps ! Also can be used as a deodorant.
If you get the time here is a link you may find very interesting called Sweet Poison: What Your Nose Can't Tell You About The Dangers of Perfume http://members.tripod.com/~Enviroknow/Perfume.html

Tea-Light Candle Holder!

Tea-Light Candle Holder!
I just made this tea light candle holder from recycled products. All you need is a glass jar , an old wire coat hanger and a pair of pliers.Then add your tea light candle. The old coat hanger I used was plastic coated , I made another one with just plain wire. Take pliers and cut a length from the coat hanger, depends on the size of the jar bend it around the top twist together at the back and make a loop with the excess. I used a tiny bit of blu-tac to keep the candle in the middle of the jar so when you tilt the jar to get your hand and match inside to light it ,it stays in place Very simple to make.The photo was taken during the day, hung on a nail on our gazebo. They would look great a lot of them hung up outside while entertaining . And best part they are free to make !

Water To Precious To Waste !

Water is to precious to waste ! We live on a 25 acre property out of town (semi rural ) and we rely on all our own water supply. All our house is connected to our rain water tank .
In my kitchen sink I have a basin that I wash our dishes in , then I empty the water onto our plants/garden. Then I rinse in the smaller side of the sink ,just while writing this I'm thinking to myself might see if I can purchase a smaller one for the small side of the sink . This one in photo we brought at bunnings about 18 months ago . I saw them for sale the other day at woolworths for $7.99. We also have one  in each of the showers that we use in the summer to collect water then water the plants. The handles on each side make it so easy to carry and when not in use they can be hung up on hooks!

Freeze Parsley

Here is a quick tip: When you have excess parsley that you know you won't get to use before going bad.
Put it in a plastic bag and pop into the freezer. When you need some for a recipe scrunch the bag of parsley and it will get broken into tiny pieces , saves finely chopping it . A real time saver!

Chocolate Pudding

Here is my recipe for really healthy Chocolate pudding .
Ingredients: bananas, avocado,carob powder (could use cocoa powder )raw cocoa powder is a healthier option.If using cocoa powder probably will need a lot less . I usually put 3-4 bananas to about half an avocado and a heaped tablespoon of carob powder and blend up well in blender. It is really easy and yummy.
Note: You can make lemon or lime pudding replace the cocoa with either lemon or lime juice.
In photo you will see small tubs filled with pudding they are great for school lunch boxes . they hold 75 mls they are from decor which I purchased from BigW . They are so great for putting allsorts of things in for lunch boxes, they also fit little muffins.
There could probably be another post all about these containers ,they are great !

Free Fertilizer For Your Garden

Weed Tea !
Every one has weeds in their garden , Especialy after the rain , I wonder where they all come from you turn your back and there they are again . So when I pull our weeds out ( not very often but when I do )I put them in either a bucket or I have a extra wheelie bin I half fill with weeds then fill with water , but this time of year let the rain fill it up for free. Then I put the lid down or cover bucket, leave for about 6 weeks and then after that bucket it out as required to fertilize your garden , fruit trees, herbs, vegetables or indoor plants. Then put the weed mater around your fruit trees good mulch .It's great for our garden and great for our wallets.
Note: If you were to make it now it will be ready for spring!  Happy gardening !

Freeze Your Cheese

Freeze Your Cheese.
If you are like me and keep wasting cheese because the last part of the block has gone moudly , then this tip will be great for you to stop wasting any more
cheese. When you purchase your cheese I usually like to buy the 1 kilo blocks when they are on special, grate the whole block put it in a zip lock bag or other container suitable for the freezer. Then you can use it staright from the freezer then it will last for ages . (no more moldy wasted cheese ever again)

Making Sushi

Making Sushi is really easy and very inexpensive so please give it a try.
My son Jack really loves sushi , when they have their end of school year party he always wants me to make a plate of sushi , which I do.I think it is very healthy compared to a lot of party food that gets served . I never use the sushi rice I thinks it too expensive. I use medium grain white rice.
1 cup of rice to 1 cup of water. I put it into a saucepan and bring it to boiling point then simmer for 10 minutes with lid on, turn off and leave for 20 minutes still with lid on . Then stir with fork it will be very sticky which is perfect. Get sushi sheets (dried seaweed sheets) place one on board shiny side down, place about a 3/4 of a cup of sticky rice in the middle of the sheet like picture below , then I add cucumber long skinny slices and carrot and avocado. I use a quarter avocado cut into half length wise per roll. Then roll up around filling into a log,  wet edge with a few drops of water to help it stick . Then cut into pieces about 8 per roll. Use a very sharp knife and wet it between cutting each slice stops it sticking . Serve with Soy sauce or Tamari, we use tamari its wheat free but more expensive, but tastes a lot nicer . Note: you can use lots of different fillings the one above is my favorite . One Christmas a few years ago I filled them with fresh crab meat and cucumber . Another favorite of mine is smoked salmon and cucumber and avocado , can use omelet, tin tuna, tin salmon .Experiment to find your own favorite . You can also buy a bamboo mat from Asian stores to help roll them I brought one about 8 years ago I used it once and haven't again thought it was easier without it may try to use it again next time I make sushi . Can serve with pickled ginger and wasabi ( very hot horseradish paste)                                      Note Another tip is if you are taking a plate to a party/gathering use a washed black meat tray looks great with the sushi and you don't need to bother collecting your plate before going home. And when I make sushi for us at home I sometimes don't bother to cut it into pieces I just roll it up in grease proof paper and eat it like a kebab.Also great for children's lunch boxes & adults lunch boxes too!

Pencil Holder

Pencil Holder
A few weeks ago I took my son to smiggle's, where they sell bright fun and funky ( and expensive) stationary. He wanted to buy rubbers like his friend had at school . I saw while there
they had pencil holders made from plastic and in a few different colours for $9.95 each . Here is my version made from a empty tin , which I covered with a piece of fabric then I covered it with contact that I had in my draw from a few years ago . ( I wouldn't buy contact again) you don't really need to even do that . I made one about 12 years ago which we still use, that one was covered in just the fabric. When my son was in grade one I made him one for school which was covered in a Thomas the tank catalogue which he still uses now at home. He made one for his much older brothers for a present. He did a drawing and we glued it around the tin . Use your imagination , a great craft for children to make for family and friends .( could be great birthday gift with a packet of pencils/textas) A great  recycled activity .
hope you all give it a try one less tin in the recycle bin .

Meat and Vegetable Parcels

Meat and Vegetable Parcels
The first photo was before cooking and second photo was taken after they were cooked
I made these yesterday for late lunch early dinner
they were very easy and tasty .
It made 8 parcels.
Ingredients are as follows
8 sheets of filo pastry
500 grams lamb mince (you could use any mince of your choice)
1 large onion (finely chopped)
2 carrots (grated)
1 large potato (grated
small bunch of finely chopped fresh sage
I use Celtic salt
sesame seeds (optional)
about a teaspoon of milk to brush on top to make sesame seeds stick .
pre-heat oven ,I cook in a fan forced oven at 160 degrees Celsius. In a large bowl mix all ingredients. Then fold filo pastry sheet width ways in half then put a handful on mixture in centre fold in edges and roll up to form parcels with most of the thickness underneath, place on a tray with glad bake . I brushed them with milk and sprinkled sesame seeds on top just to be a bit decorative. I made this recipe last week and didn't use glad bake it got really stuck. With the glad bake they just lifted off easy . I cooked them for 45 minutes, or cook until golden brown all ovens vary a little! I had the 2 left over cold today and still very nice . filo pastry makes them very light and almost fat free .
Note I normally add grated zucchini but they were way to expensive and looked awful so I used a potato instead . You an use whatever vegetables you have.

LAUGHTER really is THE BEST MEDICINE

The Bathtub Test
During a visit to the mental asylum, a visitor asked the Director what the criterion was, which defined whether or not a patient should be institutionalized.
"Well," said the Director, "we fill up a bathtub, then we offer a teaspoon, a teacup and a bucket to the patient and ask him or her to empty the bathtub "
"Oh, I understand," said the visitor. "A normal person would use the bucket because it's bigger than the spoon or the teacup."
"No." said the Director, "A normal person would pull the plug. Do you want a bed near the window?"

Make Your Own Envelopes.

Why not make your own envelopes !
Instead of buying envelopes ,make your own
a great activity to get the children to do.Get an old used envelope gently open it out to sit flat and use for a template, get some paper, it could be old bills, magazine pages etc and place template on and trace around it then cut it out and fold up and glue. Put a few pages together then cut them out to make it quicker , they can be really bright funky and colourful to send cards or other mail in . It's all about using what you have. You could also make CD /DVD covers ,packets for fruit & vegetable seeds I'm sure there are lots of other uses .

Orange & Almond Cakes (Gluten Free)

 Orange & Almond cakes (Gluten free)
2 whole oranges (Valencia are best)
3 Eggs
1 cup raw sugar
300g almond meal
Mixture will make 1 large cake or 12 large muffins or 36 small muffin size cakes
Small ones are great for small children or for yourself with a cuppa for a little treat.
Preheat Oven 160 fan forced oven.
Wash oranges, cut into 8ths remove all seeds then put into blender. Add eggs and sugar and blend until smooth, in another bowl put almond meal add orange mixture and stir well put into lightly greased or (can use little circles of baking paper)  patty pans fill up muffin tins and bake until golden brown.
36 Small muffin size takes 25-30 Minutes
12 Large muffin size takes 30-40 Minutes
Large cake takes 1 hour.
Note all ovens are slightly different so check to make sure it’s cooked. For a special occasion you may like to add orange syrup which can be made with juice of 1 orange and zest & ¾ cup sugar  In saucepan put juice and zest from orange ,stir over low heat until sugar dissolves and syrup thickens .spoon over cake/cakes while still warm so the syrup soaks into the cakes. If putting syrup on cake you may like to use less sugar in the cake mix.  Can serve with a dollop of fresh cream yum !
Note: These cakes freeze really well but don't store them on top of each other because they tend to stick to each other ,can put baking paper between the layers if you like .Note: You can use S.R flour if you don't need a gluten free one.

Bookmarks (Made from used Christmas & birthday cards )

I love finding a use for things that would otherwise be thrown out .
These book marks are made from used christmas and birthday cards.
All you need to do is cut to size then by using a paper punch ,punch a hole out in the top centre of the card and thread a piece of ribbon in the hole can also thread small strings of beads.
Write your words of sentiment on the back then send or give to family and friends instead of buying new cards .
Great craft for children to make and give to their friends.

Hot Lemon,Honey & Ginger Drink

Hot Lemon,Honey & Ginger Drink
This is a great drink if you have a cold or flu
or to warm you up on a cold winters day or night
1 lemon juiced
zest of 1 lemon (use a very fine grater)
a piece of ginger (about a teaspoon grated )
pour over hot water and add honey to taste.
Delicious and easy !

Lentil & Vegetable Soup

Yesterday I made a big pot of lentil and vegetable soup. Warms my tummy and my soul !
Thick and hearty .
2 cups of red lentils
3 large carrots
2 large potatoes
1 sweet potato
1 large zucchini
3 large onions
4 sticks celery
1 cup frozen peas
fresh herbs I used basil,thyme,sage.
1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste I use celtic salt.
garnish with chopped parsley & spring onions.
When I made this soup I chopped all the ingredients in my food pocessor. Then I gentlely fry the onion for about 5 minutes then add all the other ingredients except peas fry for about 5-10 minutes then I add the washed lentils ,add water to cover bring to a slow boil then simmer about an hour or until lentils are really soft , then add peas .Garnish with parsley & spring onion and serve . Could serve with lovely fresh crusty bread. A little parmesan cheese sprinkled over is delicious also. Makes a really big pot and freezers really well.

My French Carry Bag !

ooh, lala,
I first saw these bags for sale on ebay and just fell in love with them (It was love at first site ) .
I thought they were way too expensive and did a search online and found the place to purchase them. I brought them to use for gift giving bags . I have a few extra if any one would like to buy one. They are $3.50 each + postage & handling. To order one or more leave a comment or email me at simplelivingsherrie@gmail.com
and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Make Your Own Yoghurt !

Making Your Own Yoghurt !
Been making my own yoghurt the last few days.
delicious ! I purchased yoghurt they had on special 2 x 1kilo tubs of Margaret River natural Greek yoghurt for $5.In my cupboard I found an old mayonnaise jar that holds 1 litre . (the easiyo yoghurt maker has a plastic container but I prefer glass as it sits in boiling water )I put 1/2 cup of commercial yoghurt in jar added a litre of room temperature long life milk that was 89c stirred well put lid on and put in my easiyo yoghurt maker and left for about 12 hours. So for just over a $1 I made a litre of yoghurt. This morning for breakfast I made a banana smoothie, with yoghurt, 2 bananas, little water,maca powder ,rose hip granules and klenz a fibre powder, it was delicious. If you don't have a yoghurt maker you could wrap it up and put somewhere warm .I have also made it in my wide mouth stainless steal thermos, but you need  to warm the milk up first, about body temperature . I think it's worth giving a try !

How To Be Organised & Declutter

Hi all,
On Saturday afternoon I went to a free workshop, "Learn how to be organised & declutter"
at Howards Storage World ,run by professional Organiser Lissanne Oliver . I'm always working on trying to organise the contents of my house better . My mission is trying to keep our kitchen table free of clutter, my mission is failing big time . It's a large table too much space thats calling out put me here .It's the first place everything gets put , mail,library books,school notes, sons artwork/school work ,bits and pieces , then when it's time to eat I just push every thing down a little to make space . It seems as fast as I remove all the stuff I turn my back and it's starting to accumulate again .Late last year I came across doculopes I got very excited I was convinced these doculopes were going to change my life ,I was so convinced I was going to be the queen of organisation . What happened,I'm not sure I have a few on my dressing table ,Some in my cupboard A lot on the, you guessed it the kitchen table , Where to put them. Thats the problem where to put them all . Any way Lissanne has a plan called the 4 f,s now ,now no swearing , they stand for finish, forward, file & flick.
finish -complete the project . forward pass them on ,file -file them, flick- in the rubbish bin. If
anyone reads this and has great storge/organising/decluttering ideas please post them and share them with myself and others.
I guess for me sometimes its about how much stuff do I really need /and what I really need to keep .Lissanne has a book called sorted it's in the public library system, she also has a website
http://www.sorted.net.au/ .I'm about to have a look at it myself .
I read this saying on simplesaving .com.au a while back . Most people spend money they don't have, on things they don't need to impress people they don't like .

Chocolate Zucchini Cakes

Chocolate zucchini cake.
This recipe came to me years ago from a friend Janelle. But over the years I have made many changes to it.
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
1/2 cup oil ( I use extra virgin olive oil)
3 cups S.R wholemeal flour
1 large zucchini (about 2 1/2 -3 cups )
1/2 cup milk
3/4- 1 cup cocoa powder.
This mixture makes 24 muffin size cakes. I prefer making cakes in muffin trays because they cook a lot quicker, no cutting involved and way easier for entertaning .
You can either grate or puree zucchini, then mix all ingedients together well , put into greased muffin trays. I cook them for 25 minutes in a preheaed fan forced oven at 160 degrees. Remove from trays and cool on a wire rack ,when cool they can be iced or decorated. These ones above I cut the tops off , then cut the tops in half and put whipped cream on top then put the tops to look like wings and sprinkled icing sugar over them . They are very delicious ,easy and relatively economical to make. They also freeze well without the cream of course.I often freeze them in a plastic bag and take then out as required for school/work morning tea .You can make a large cake if you like it will take about 45 minutes to cook.