Thrifty Thursday (Post 2 of 2): Queen City Consignment LOVE

Fall is many people's fav season. Lists of reasons most likely include football, apple cider, pumpkin patch, pretty leaves, and crisp air. I'm screamin' that one reason to love Fall is CONSIGNMENT SALES!
There are TONS of excellent consignment sales in the Charlotte area from which you can benefit. Our friends at Little Ones Magazine have compiled a very helpful comprehensive list that you can print and stick in your purse or calendar for excellent reference as you plan your shopping trips. Just click here to view and print. You can also find a comprehensive list compiled by our friend at Charlotte SmartyPants with the help of Little Ones Magazine.

I am thankful for these lists since I've been in mourning that my fav sale, Divine Consign, has decided not to return to our area. I've eyeballed a couple of replacements.

If any of  you, our other readers, happen to have a comprehensive list in your areas (Raleigh, Atlanta, Austin, etc.). Please do share so we can make sure the sisters in your area can benefit!

Mompreneur Trio, Discount and Giveaway wrapped in one!

Happy Friday, ladies! You know how we love Mompreneurs on The Roof, and today, it is my privilege to introduce you to not one...not two...but THREE Mompreneurs. That's right~a team of three, and what a trio they are. I've recently had the privilege of meeting these three and I think you will find both their individual and collective heart for moms, creative energy and vision for teamwork infectious. They are a great example for us women of how much more you can accomplish when you work together!

Nidhie Dhiman, Sarah Masci and Dana Blake

Photo by Jamie Lea

Nidhie Dhiman is the owner of Belly Elan, a baby boutique in Charlotte's Blakeney area (formerly of Providence Promenade) and has recently launched an online one stop shop for moms everywhere. She loves meeting with parents, parents to be and friends of expecting mommies on a daily basis do help them determine little luxuries and special splurges while ensuring value and meeting Belly Elan's motto, "because having a baby doesn't mean losing your style!" Be sure to visit the website and "like" Belly Elan on Facebook here so you can stay posted on sales, new products and special events. That place is happenin' and there's always something going on!

Photo by Jamie Lea

Dana Blake is the CEO of BabyElan{Daily}, a website and online resource for new parents, parents-to-be, and gift-givers wading through the offerings of today's booming baby industry. BabyElan{Daily}  also offers expertise via personal "inbox" delivery to break down the must-have practical luxuries, simple pleasures, green products and fabulous deals for baby, child, and mother {daily}. Dana and Nidhie's individual knowledge of the industry is a huge asset as they collaborate together supporting one another's businesses. Be sure to "like" BabyElan{Daily} on Facebook here so you can be fully up to date with the latest and greatest!

Photo by Jamie Lea

 Sarah Masci is a graphic designer whose "creativity is inspired by the essence of childhood and life's little simplicities." She owns a drop of golden sun, a freelance graphic design service featuring paper goods, stationery, wall decor and more. Fellow bloggers, you may especially be interested that she offers web design and blog template services as well! If you like Belly Elan's and BabyElan{Daily}'s logos, look no further! This girl is the designer. Oh and if you visit her Etsy store, you may just find a creation by one of the Roof's original co-founders, Aundrea (aka Zerbert Baby)-smalllll world! Please "like" Sarah and a drop of golden sun on Facebook here so you can follow her many exciting projects--many of them in conjunction with both Nidhie and Dana.

So, one day last summer, these three were at the pool together and came up with a joint venture called the Elan Card. Basically, it is an exclusive card, currently local to the Charlotte area, giving women and mothers of all ages valuable discounts and promotions to restaurants, stores, social venues and places of entertainment. The card works everytime you shop and has no expiration date. You can see the fabulous list of vendors providing discounts and promotions exclusively for Elan Card holders here and you can purchase one for yourself here.  Also, be sure to like Elan Card on Facebook here because it is a great way to find out about giveways and promotions that aren't necessarily exclusive to the Elan Card but offered by Elan Card vendors. Isn't this idea so great? I think it should be in every city.

Here is where the fun begins! We have a discount AND a giveaway generously provided by these three.

Discount

• Sarah is offering the ladies of the Roof 15% off anything at a drop of golden sun's Etsy store. Simply enter RWAV15 upon checkout. There are some cuuuute things so get to shopping, ladies. Thank you, Sarah!

Giveaway

• These three are hosting a RWAV Giveaway and providing Elan Cards for FIVE lucky winners! To enter the giveaway, simply leave a comment on this post. For any of the four Facebook pages mentioned above that you "liked," you will get an additional entry, so be sure to let us know if you showed them some Facebook love. Winners will be randomly selected next Friday. Thank you, Elan Card ladies!

TGIF! Ya'll getting ready for your looong weekend? Be safe out there.

Love,
Hannah

Free-for-all Friday: Mompreneur~SoupKids' Custom Covers

We LOVE Mompreneurs here on the Roof and we love to support them. Today is devoted to an amazing Mompreneur and her cutie patootie creations.

Ladies, meet Kristin Campbell of SoupKids (get it? Campbell Soup. I tell you what~she's good!). Kristin is a dedicated, genuine, nurturing, determined, comical, infectious wife, mom of three and friend. In fact, she was the very first friend I met on my very first day of college waaaay back when we were 18 and her friendship has been a blessing to me ever since.

Kristin has always been creative and taken her ideas to "the next level" no matter what they are. When she taught herself to sew, I knew she wouldn't stop there...and she didn't. As she birthed her new talent alongside three beautiful children, she also began the venture of SoupKids- classic, customized creations for children. You can ask my college sisterhood just how delighted we've been-especially about her mad monogramming skillz. I don't think one single one of the sisterhood's collective 40 children ranging from birth to elementary age have gotten past infancy without a SoupKids monogram or creation. We Southern girls are thrilled for the legacy to continue as long as our children will allow!

Clearly, I could go on and on but I'm excited to share SoupKids' most unique custom item. I think this is definitely my fav of Kristin's brilliant ideas. It is also one I get asked about pretty much everywhere I go--her custom covers. Kristin has multiple fabrics that you can select to cover your car seat, bouncy seat or high chair OR you may send her your fabric of choice if you wish. She will make a cover to fit your item and finish that baby off with a coordinating monogram. Here are just a few examples:

These covers have a two in one benefit. They make your baby equipment more appealing to the eye AND keep them protected from stains leaving them virtually spotless which makes them PRIME Craigslist inventory later!

If you are interested in your own personal SoupKids creation or need a FABULOUS gift, email Kristin at kcampbell84(at)nc(dot)rr(dot)com. Her going rate for the car seat cover is $68.00 if she provides the fabric. However, Kristin wanted to show the ladies of the Roof some love and if you tell her we sent you, she will give you a 10% discount! She's sweet like that. :) So, order up and share your SoupKids creations with us!

Here's to MomPreneurs! Happy Friday!

Free-for-all Friday: Consignment Store Props & Monthly Reading Program

Awhile ago, my friend, Katie, referred me to a new consignment store in our area. I've had some bad consignment store experiences--mostly due to lack of organization--so I ventured to this new store called Kid 2 Kid with somewhat low expectations. Much to my surprise, it exceeded my expectations and I instantly fell in love.

The store was clean, organized, not crowded, pleasing to the eye...It didn't leave me with the feeling that I needed to plow through dust and moth ball odor to find a glimmer of a treasure. In fact, at just a glance, I spotted many boutique and trunk show items in excellent condition at a fraction of the cost. Right up my alley! Not to mention, the toy, book, gift (many brand new Melissa and Doug items) and BOW selection (beautiful, brand new bows of all sizes at very reasonable prices. Oh, how I love those bows!).

Kid to Kid (K2K) is a nationwide chain and we are blessed to have TWO in our hometown. I highly recommend you check their website to find the closest one to you. They have some great programs from which you can benefit.

• Income- If you consign at K2K, you have the option to receive cash or an additional 20% if you choose to receive store credit.
• Frequent Shopper's Discount- Be sure to ask for a punch card and they will stamp your card for every $10 you spend. After you fill the card, you will receive 20% off your entire purchase on your next visit.
• Discount per transaction- If you sign up for their email list, K2K will email you any sales and specials plus a monthly password so that you can receive $5 off a $25 or more purchase. This usually ends up scoring me a free bow! :)
• Reading program-This last program has been a hidden gem and you don't want to miss it if you have a K2K in your area. Praise the Lord for my friend, Tara, that spilled the beans, or boy, would we have been missing out. Turns out, K2K will give you a Book Club card per child (they even gave me one for my one year old twins) and your child (or you) can pick one book-per card-per month- FREE up to $1.99. If you select a book over $1.99, you simply pay the difference. It makes for a great summer outing and we ended up getting three precious books today for a mere $3.00 out of pocket. How perfect is that to add to your fab new book organizational system from yesterday?!?! :)

Hope you have one of these great franchises near you so you can take advantage of it's opportunities. If not, perhaps you should open one in your area?!?! Just sayin...

Happy Friday ya'll!

-Hannah

Thrifty Thursday Part 2: Exciting Local Charlotte Event!

Many of you may be fans of Nordstrom. If so, it doesn't get much better than the Nordstrom Rack (Nordies version of their outlet). If you happen to live near Charlotte or are planning any future road trips, you may want to add the Nordstrom Rack to your to-do list b/c Charlotte's fittin' to have one! The Grand Opening is next Thursday, March 31 beginning at 9:00 AM. For more details, visit here. Me excited. See you at the sale?! :)

Thrifty Thursday: Make that gift list and check it twice!

Time to start your new budget for 2011! Here are some helpful hints for dealing with this year's holidays and birthdays.

Make a lists of...

1....anything you did not have this Christmas that you may want next year. You will find these things 80% off this time of year. We always drive around and see all the lights and get new ideas for our house. So we make a list and go to the store a couple days after Christmas and use some of our Christmas cash to get the supplies. We are getting them at their best price and not cutting into our budget.

2...the birthdays you will have in 2011. I did a post last year on how you can save a bundle by shopping all year long for birthdays and next Christmas. Last year Walmart had their Christmas toys 75% off. You bet I bought ten craft packs and gave them as presents through the entire year. I can not wait to see what they will have this year!:) Keep in mind, though, I've found online specials are the best mid year for toys.

Make sure that you note on your list what months your girlfriends have birthdays. There are usually magazine specials for around $3 for a year subscription on all kind of magazines but will take 12 weeks to start delivery, http://www.tanga.com/products/christianity-today-magazine-subscription--2. Example: my sister has a birthday in April, I will wait for a fun one she will enjoy and order in January.

3....teacher gifts. This is another time to stock up! Bath and Body Works will usually have lotions for $3. They retail for $9. I have two kids that will be in school next year and I will get 4 of these and they will provide a holiday cello bag at no charge. How fun, simple, and budget friendly!
http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2279332&cp=3157625.11101891

Think ahead on your purchases. Another great gift for anyone are books. Make sure to see what movies are scheduled to come out in 2011. Most people who like to read love to read the book before they see the movie. How thoughtful! You can get gently used to 75% off and most of the time you can not even tell. I gave a couple of this for Christmas presents this year and they had no idea. I guess they will now if they read this!

When looking at clearance sections always have your gift list in mind. When you purchase an item, go ahead and mark the person off of this list. Trust me that you will get items at best prices with the least amount of stress. I cut my gift budget by 75% last year by doing this.

Wrapping: save comic papers from your papers for wrapping! Budget and Earth friendly. Kids love reading them as well!

Have fun!

I hope to continue through this year with fun and thoughtful gift ideas for you and your family this year!

Love,

Imogene

Happy Tuesday~Adoption and Super HOT deals!

So it's Tuesday and this post definitely isn't a Training up Tuesday. For that, I refer you to Karen's video on celebrating adoption-a topic which I would love for her to share more candidly with you. I love her story and know it would speak to so many of you. Many of you may also have her own story to share in the celebration of adoption.

In the meantime, I know the ladies of the Roof loooooove some deals and I just ran across a couple that you may not want to miss with Christmas fast on our heels. I don't usually watch the Today Show but my mom called me first thing this morning to share some super HOT deals.

If you are a Today show faithful, you're probably familiar with Jill's Steals and Deals. A couple of today's steals and deals which happen to be available for 24 hours (until Wed. morning) are this suhweeeet coat which is normally $75 and marked down to $15! Be sure to see the size chart b/c I think it runs on the small side.

This cashmere sweater from Talbots that is normally $119 and marked down to 24.95 only w/ the Today show coupon code.

...and check out this hot 14 K gold cuff bracelet that is normally $60 and marked down to $12. What a great gift!


Just go through the Today show link and they'll give you alllll the details. Let us know what you score!

Free-for-all Friday~Divine Consign 09 (Fall)!

Do you love to dress your children in quality and customized clothing (you know...appliques, smocked, monogrammed, boutique brands) but not at the expense?!??! If the answer is yes, Divine Consign will be your best friend twice a year (Spring and Fall)! Not only can you make money by consigning your own child's quality and customized clothing but you can stock up on your child's wardrobe for the upcoming season. It's a one-stop shop!

If you are interested and live in the Cobb County (Atlanta area) or Raleigh, NC area, you are in luck because the registration to be a consignor begins TODAY!!!!! Go to their website now (www.dcskids.com), click on the show in your city and register. It's easy peasy! The only thing left to do is clean out those closets and get ready to make some moolah. :)

...and if you live near Charlotte, NC, Montgomery, AL, Corinth, MS or Williamsburg, VA, be sure to check their website for details because there will be a fall show in your area, too!

See ya'll at the sale!

Hannah

TNT Tip

Here are a couple of unique ways to organize everyday items that seemt to be taking over your home.

1. Use a pretty teacup and saucer as a "catchall" on your bedroom dresser or nightstand to store loose change, jewelry and what-have-you.
2. Use a wine rack on your bathroom counter to hold towels, bubble bath, loofahs, shampoo and even pretty glass bottles as decoration.
3. If your reading material and remotes are taking over your living room, store them in a flat tray that you can conveniently slide under your couch or chair and pull out when needed.

(Courtesty of All You Magazine)

Savory Smackerel

Crockpot BBQ Chicken

A great lunch meal to place in the slow cooker before leaving for church. Easier still; shred the meat and put on a hamburger bun. Will serve our family of four two meals.

• 6 skinless chicken breast halves (boneless)
• 1 (12 ounce) bottle barbeque sauce of your choice
• 1/2 cup Italian salad dressing (I use fat free)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worchestershire sauce

*The ingredients give it a wonderful flavor. I recommend using a barbeque sauce that you really like to secure you get a great flavor

*Place chicken in the slow cooker. In a bowl, mix the barbeque sauce, Italian dressing, brown sugar and Worchestershire sauce. Pour over the chicken. Cover and let it cook 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 on low (if chicken breasts are frozen). If the chicken is not frozen I recommend 4 hours on low depending on your individual slow cooker. If you plan to serve it as barbeque about an hour before eating take out chicken and cut in small pieces or shred and return to the slow cooker.

(Courtesy of What's for Din Din?)

Mommy Marketing Moment
A BIG thank you to our reader, Ashlie M., for making today's MMM possible. She not only recommended this Mommy business but did an interview and put this all together for YOU. Thank you, Ashlie! Here's a BIG RWAV hug from us to you!

Mommy Marketing Moment comes to you courtesy of WhiMSy Love’s Nikki Mans. Nikki describes herself as a “wacky goofball” at times and a “girly romantic” at others (hence “WhiMSy Love”). One thing is for certain, she is definitely at all times “eclectic,” whether it is in her music tastes, various collections, or artsy aspirations! This mom of 2 adorable girls (Pazely age 5 & Zoey age 6 1/2) somehow manages time to design various fabulous pieces of dazzling love!
Check out her “FunkOlicios” vintage button rings (her daughters’ favorite hand made items that “mommy” makes) on Etsy.

Or how cute would these Pinwheel Cupcake Picks be for a summer time party?
A unique spin on the traditional table place card for a wedding reception could be these “Fork Easles” that Nikki creates (which could also be used to display a favorite photo, recipe, or poem)! Wouldn’t these “Writing on the Wall” be perfect for your favorite book-lover? They would look so nice in your home’s reading nook!

And these are but a FEW of the one-of-a-kind items this busy mom makes! But before you write her off as another “superwoman” whose powers are not of this planet, let me assure you, Nikki Mans is just a normal mom who has her priorities straight - Jesus, Family....and then Crafts! ;-)

Her daughters are in part responsible for inspiring Nikki and these “mini crafty versions” (as she puts it) of her are often found in their own art center (which Nikki says is often a “complete pigsty”...just like hers) or literally under mommy’s feet finding hidden trinkets in the desk drawers to feed their imagination as Nikki gets busy crafting. She says she’s loosened up over the years, neverminding the “messes” that seemed to get in the way of business. Now she views these messes as “too fun to pass up!”

“WhiMSy Love started out as a creative outlet to feed my passion to make, make, make stuff. It also makes me feel very proud to help pay the bills.” And Nikki may be getting more help paying the bills soon; WhiMSy love made it into Greece’s Glamour magazine’s June 2009 issue!

Her advice to other moms (or anyone) going into their own business: “I'm learning with my business this simple statement is true: ‘However much I put into it is how much I get in return.’ If I dedicate my time in creating nice, quality items & take really sharp, interesting pictures & list the items in my shop at a frequent cycle, than I see a definite return in all my hard work.” Just like most of us, she notes that it takes lots of work to be consistent; and the reality of a stay-at-home mom proves that you “can’t just make stuff” all day. There is a lot of juggling involved to keep the house clean, be present in your children’s lives, be a good wife, friend, etc., but “laughter and silliness” seem to help this Mommy get through it! Nikki has become “comfortable with who she is and who she is becoming.” Verses like Psalm 139: 14 “...I am fearfully and wonderfully made” and Nehemiah 8:10 “...the joy of the Lord is your strength” help to reach that state of heart and mind for her. “I would not have such a freedom, joy & surety of who I am if it were not for my relationship with Jesus.” A humble, content woman, Nikki says, “I’ve got my family, my heath, and crafty supplies. What more could I ask for?”

“Authentic” is another word to describe WhiMSy Love and Nikki Mans for the handmade items and for the person that she is. No wonder so many comment on her “enthusiasm”, “zest for life,” and see this wonderful woman as “inspiring”.

For more daily inspiration, great ideas for kids and crafting, or first dibs at cool sales and random specials, subscribe to her blog http://whimsy-girl.blogspot.com//. To shop now, check out her Etsy shop as well!

Happy Saturday!

Free-for-all Friday: Garage Sale Shopping

I've mentioned before that I love to shop and God has given me a "talent" to find great bargains:) This is the time of the year that you can find a garage sale in just about any part of town that you are.


Recently, I got all of this for $5.50 and had a wonderful Saturday morning shopping with my son and one of my girlfriends...priceless!
Here are some good tips to make sure you, too, can turn one person's trash to your treasure.

1. Look for neighborhoods that have sales at multiple houses. This will cut down on your gas and cost of driving around. Also, if you have children, you can park and pull out the stroller to make a morning of it.

2. Set a budget. Never bring more cash than you can afford to spend. This money can come from so many places in your budget....extra money you did not spend at the grocery store, "fun" money, or even your gift budget. Always bring small bills and pull out only what you are willing to pay.

3. Think outside of the box. Do not ever go with a list, you will be discouraged and miss out on good finds because you will be so focused on looking for things that are not there.

4. Talk to your friends about the sales in their neighborhoods or ones at churches so you can go to the good ones and also spend time with your friends and family. It is a great time to catch up, have a great time shopping, and even stop for coffee before or after.

5. If you have children, it is always good to give them their own money to spend. Even if it is $1 or .50. My two year old found 2 cars that he had been wanting for .25 each. This was definitely his treasure for the morning.

6. Always ask yourself twice, "Do I need this?" Also, make a commitment that anything you buy for yourself, you will use in your home that day. If you think that something may look good in a certain room and it never makes it there, then this is a loss.

Psalm 138:8 "..do not abandon the works of your hands."

Thrifty Thursday ~ Bread Tip

Shoppers take note! Did you know that bread is delivered fresh to the stores five days a week? Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Each day has a different color twist tie. They are:

Monday - Blue

Tuesday - Green

Thursday - Red

Friday - White

Saturday - Yellow

The colors go alphabetically by color (Blue - Green - Red - White - Yellow, Monday thru Saturday). Very easy to remember. I thought this was interesting. I looked in the grocery store and the bread wrappers DO have different twist ties, and even the one with the plastic clips have different colors. You could also just look at the expiration date :)

TNT Tip: Goodbye Dry Cleaners!

Today's TNT Tip comes from our very own Dolly....

I DETEST ironing shirts! Since I've been married, I've always taken my husband's shirts to the dry cleaners. It's easier, saves time and they always do a great job of getting his shirts so nice and starched. My town has a $1.85 cleaners place that I take his shirts to but it's way on the other side of town. I usually save up a bunch of shirts and take them in when I'm headed that way. Recently, I decided that there is no reason why I can't start ironing during my day at home. (except it may take away some of my computer time). So, here was my project.


Looks fun huh?


My mom gave me this idea...everytime I iron a shirt, I'll put $1.85 into a jar and when I'm finished I'll see all the money I saved. Then, I'll have to go reward myself with a treat. (OK...I added the last part). Wanna join me??!?!

Mommy Marketing Moment

Today, we are excited to feature Ali and her business, Persnickety. Persnickety was created in 2004 out of a love for all things monogrammed and a desire to provide great products at reasonable prices. Ali is a stay at home mom with two children. She believes that moms should be afforded a fun shopping experience and the quality products they love at prices they can afford. Her desire is to provide excellent customer service, exceptional products and an experience you will love to come back to over and over again! The creation of Persnickety has been such a blessing in allowing her to stay home with her children, while contributing to her family in a practical way. If you are looking for something unique and monogrammed, an adornment for your home or the perfect gift, click straight on over to Persnickety and the answer will be at your fingertips!

Savory Smackerel

Thank you to our own Donna for today's Savory Smackerel (courtesy of What's for Din-Din). This would be a good recipe to prepare on Saturday evening and have the crockpot all ready to go. Then, all you'll need to do is hit "on" when you get up on Sunday morning and have your first cup of coffee.

Chicken and Carrots with Wine Sauce
This is a tried and true recipe in our house. When whole chickens are on sale at the grocery store, I stock up and make this recipe. It's easy, cooks all day and dinner is ready in a flash! It's good served with rice or mashed potatoes. This recipe is from the Southern Living Slow Cooker Cookbook.

2 Cups sliced carrots (I make mine more into chunks)

1 Whole Chicken

12 Garlic cloves, peeled

1/2 Cup White Cooking Wine

1 tsp. dried Thyme

1/4 tsp. pepper

3/4 tsp. salt

2 T. cornstarch

2 T. water*

Combine carrot, chicken and garlic in a slow cooker. Pour wine over mixture and sprinkle with thyme, salt and pepper. Cover with lid; cook on high setting for 1 hour. Reduce to low-heat setting and cook for 6 hours.

*Remove carrots, chicken and garlic from slow cooker (chicken will be very soft). Keep warm. Reserve liquid in cooker and increase to high-heat setting.

*Combine cornstarch and water and stir until blended. Stir cornstarch mixture into cooking liquid. Cook 15 minutes or until thick, stirring frequently.

Print recipe here.

HAPPY FIRST SATURDAY OF SPRING!!!!

P.S. We haven't forgotten about our giveaway winner. We are still tallying and promise to have it to you by Monday. Just hold your breath a litttttle longer. :)

Mommy Marketing Moment

Mommy Marketing Moment:

Thank you to Jaime for sharing this week's Mommy Marketing Moment!!!! Have at it, Jaime girl...

This week’s Mommy Marketing Moment features the whimsical and unique clothing line, Poor Pitiful Pearl. Shauna Hursh, the creator of PPP, is a true “Mommy” businesswoman as she sews every piece of clothing herself, in addition to being a doting wife and a loving mommy to her adorable daughter, McCoy (who also happens to be PPP’s chief model).

What makes PPP so wonderfully unique is that each piece is made entirely from re-cycled, re-used, and re-purposed fabric. That’s right, not a stitch comes from new fabric, so the clothes are as earth conscious as they are fashionable. And fashionable they are! These one-of-a-kind looks will not let you down!

And neither will Shauna’s heart. She is a devoted Christian who never misses an opportunity to share her love for Jesus. In fact, many of her clothing pieces have verses sown right onto them. Plus, she is one of those women has a true sense of who God created her to be; and her very nature encourages others to be just as comfortable with themselves. Just like each piece in her clothing line, she understands that true beauty comes from the fact that we are all one-of-a-kind creations, fearfully and wonderfully made. Her business isn’t something that she does “on the side”, but it truly reflects the beauty in her heart. She also donates 10% of her profits to Casa Hogar, an orphanage in Puerto Escondido, Mexico.

And as if all of that wasn’t wonderful enough, she has great news for RWAV readers! She is offering 10% off to all RWAVers! Her purchases are completed through Etsy, so send her a note in the “Message to Buyer” section and then wait for a revised invoice before paying.

You can find her...at her website or blog or her Etsy shop.

Enjoy!

Savory Smackerel:

This recipe was actually posted here by Amy V. and is a variation of one that my Bible Study leader recently shared with us. This is SOOOOOOOOO easy and the perfect thing to throw in the crock pot right before church. You'd come home to a house smelling great and a nice, hot meal waiting to melt in your mouth. :)

*3-4 Chicken breasts (I always cut each breast into thirds)
*1 jar of your favorite salsa
*1 can of black beans (undrained)
*Put your chicken in the crock pot and pour the salsa and undrained beans on top.

Cook on high for 4 hours. Serve over Spanish rice.
TIP: Leftovers poured over chips with melted cheese & sour cream make great nachos! Enjoy!

TNT Tip:

Have you ever wondered what to do with all of those old wipe cases? If you are like me, it just seems like a waste to just throw that plastic tub out. So, this is what I have done with my wipe cases now that my boys are out of diapers.

The tub makes a perfect container for all of the markers, colored pencils, and crayons we have accumulated. And, if you are looking for a smaller case, for the car or church, try this one. Happy coloring!

Ladies, we want to hear from YOU. Be sure to help your sisters out and send us YOUR tried n' true household tips (TNT Tip). Email them to us at roofwithaview@gmail.com

Free-for-all Friday: Gifts Galore!

I LOVE TO SHOP! Ask anyone that knows me. This is one "talent" that I feel has really forced me to stick with a budget especially when it comes to clothes and gifts because gifts are the sneaky expenses on which you can never count.

I find that since I love to shop, it is so rewarding for me to shop for others through out the year and not always myself. I have been able to deliver wonderful gifts at bargain prices at Christmas and people can not get over the deals that I get.

Galatians 6:10 says "As we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." I feel that this service of giving gifts can allow us the opportunity to share God's love to others. I know that when I receive gifts, if brings joy to my life that someone spent their effort, time and money on something for me.

Here are a couple of hints for gift shopping success with a budget:

First - At the beginning of each year, make a list of gifts you will need to give for the whole year. Beside each name, list the dollar amount you would like the gift to be. Example: For both my sisters, I like to give gifts worth $50 at Christmas and $25 at birthdays. This is not the actual amount I spend but deciding this amount limits your spending. You will see how in a minute.

Second - Shop all year long for these gifts beginning w/ the after Christmas sales from the previous year. This allows you to put thought into good gifts at a great price. It is really amazing the deals you can find for the special people in your life.

When you go on vacation in the summer, there are usually outlets located around major vacation destinations. I may not have the ability to spend a ton of money on myself, but what a great time it is going on this treasure hunt for others at outlet prices. For example, last year in Hilton Head, I got both my sisters Coach clutches on sale for $25 each. Now these were normally $50 at the outlet and even more in the stores. So, I saved $50 and had them both checked off my list for the year. When you go back to your list you will see that you listed a $50 gift and only spent $25. Do not let this deter you into thinking you need another $25 gift because I feel this discounts the nice gift you already purchased.

Also, I have a two year old son and he has a group of friends for whom I know we will go to parties throughout the year. After Christmas, Walmart puts their craft boxes on sale for 75% off. I wanted to spend around $15 for each present and got these boxes for $5. I saved $60 and the kids will love these presents.

Third - You need to have a gift box and wrapper storage.

If you have a gift box this allows for you not to forget what you have purchased. Also, keep a copy of this list you made in step one in the box so you do not double buy for one person. If you have been given a gift that you will not use, you can put it in the box to give to others (might wanna write who gave it to you on there so you don't regift it...EMBARRASSING!).

Wrapper storage allows for you to always have these supplies at hand because you will spend around $5 for a bag and paper at your local stores if you are in a hurry for wrapping. If you prepare, you can spend as little as $5 a year at the dollar store on wrapping and bows. You will also have a place for bags to reuse at the appropriate time.

Fourth - You will need a box to organize cards that you will send through the year. Cards can run almost $5 a piece at the grocery store and other stores. Hallmark has .99 cards, Walmart has .49 cards, and your dollar store has .50 cards. This way, you do not get stuck spending this $5 on a sympathy card at the last minute. I also shop for cards year round. This allows me to get good cards at bargain prices and eliminates the stress of being in a card shop for an hour looking for the perfect card, which I have done more than once in the past and never will do again with this system. You can also visit your local Christian stores and get great bargains on Christmas cards and Valentine Cards. For Valentine's Day, I got a pack of eight cards to mail. They even had scripture on them and were under $2! They were a hit at a bargain price and it allowed me to spend the money on stamps and surprise a couple of people I would not have normally sent a card to.

Psalm 138:8 says "..do not abandon the works of your hands." By shopping this way, you will avoid the pit of overspending on last minute gifts and the time that shopping under pressure takes away from your family. I hope this helps you be a good steward in shopping...especially if shopping is one of your loves, like it is mine!

Earlier this week, we experienced one of the great things about living in the South - when it snows school is cancelled!

Today, in Stay at Home Saturday I'd like to share with ya'll a business that also focuses on one of the things we girls in the south love - MONOGRAMS!! and of course two southern recipes.

Disclaimer: Monograms can be worn by people all over the country...not just in the South. :)

Mommy Marketing Moment

Today's Mommy Marketing Moment spotlights Jessica and her home based business Fancy Pants Boutique. Fancy Pants Boutique features an assortment of handmade items that include a monogram. Everything is handmade to your order.

Jessica is a very busy mom of a 3 1/2 year old and an 18 month old! She spends the majority of her day with them and finds time to sew during their nap time and in the evenings after they go to bed. Because she custom makes all of the items upon order she needs two weeks in turn around time prior to shipping.

One look at her site and you will be thinking of all of the things you could have monogrammed for your child (or yourself!) or use as gifts for special people.

Jessica shared that her most popular items are the personalized sippy cups (hello - where were these when my two used sippy cups? LOVE these!), reversible dresses (so cute and practical - you get two dresses for the price of one!!), burp cloths (can you ever have enough of these? GREAT gift idea) and wipes cases (yet another great gift idea).

I have to share with yall what I think is just the sweetest thing for a little boy or girls room: The monogrammed night light! For the little girl or boy in your life, these are adorable!!

Jessica can monogram most anything! And it is perfectly acceptable to monogram anything. The correct way to monogram is:

1.first letter of first name

2. first letter of last name

3. first letter of middle name

Example: Amy Marie Smith ASM

TNT Tip
Todays TNT Tip comes from the home of Hannah (HPS). Hannah learned this valuable tip from her grandmother.

Sharpie Marker Stain

+

Rubbing Alcohol=

Voila!

Savory Smackerel
Here are two yummy southern recipes given to me by my wonderful mother-in-law Patsy.

Chicken Divan (Sooo Easy!)

6-8 cooked, chopped chicken breasts
2-3 packages frozen broccoli (I think this means those small boxes of veggies, I use about 1 large bag)

Layer the above ingredients in a 9 X 13 Pyrex dish.
In a bowl combine:
1 Can Cream of Chicken Soup
8 ounces Sour Cream
3/4 Cup Cheddar Cheese
4 ounces Parmesan Cheese
2 T butter

In a pan over the stove, combine:
2 T butter
2 T flour
3/4 Cup Chicken Broth
1/4 Cup Milk

Let the pan mixture boil and thicken. Then combine both the bowl and the pan mixtures. Stir really well.Pour the combination over the layered chicken and broccoli mixture.

Cook at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.

Old Fashion Banana Pudding - My husband's favorite dessert!

2 C Milk
2 Eggs, separated
2/3 C Sugar
1/8 t (teaspoon) Salt
2 T (Tablespoon) Cornstarch
1 t Vanilla
Vanilla Wafers
4-5 Bananas
1/4 C Sugar

Scald milk. Combine beaten egg yolks, 2/3 C sugar, salt and cornstarch. Pour 1/2 C scalded milk over mixture. Blend.

Return to remaining milk. Cook until smooth and thickened. Add vanilla. Pour over bananas and wafers that have been arranged in alternating layers in a 1 1/2 quart container.

Beat egg whites, add 1/4 C Sugar and beat until thick peaks form.

Cover pudding and bake in a pre-heated 400 degree oven until slightly brown.

Thank you, Chit Chat Baby!!!

Ya'll may remember Chit Chat Baby from the Mommy Marketing Moment in this post . Turns out, they are so excited about Roof with a View and YOU that they have offered to give all RWAVers a 5% discount on any online purchase. How sweet is that?!!?!? In order to use your discount, all you need to do is enter the code "roofwithaview" at checkout and VOILA!

They are also having another GIVEAWAY in the month of March for an Stroll-Air Zoom Stroller. Be sure to go straight to their website to register!

Once again, let's hear it for Chit Chat Baby and a BIG thank you to Rob and Sarah at CCB for making this possible!

Happy Saturday! In case you missed it, we implemented Stay-at-Home Saturday last week. If you would like to know the background, click here. Here are this week's Mommy Marketing Moment, TNT Tip and Savory Smackerel. Enjoy!

Mommy Marketing Moment
Today's Mommy Marketing Moment features our own Aundrea and her home based company, Zerbert Baby. Zerbert Baby is committed to producing attractive and highly functional selections of boutique style burp cloths, blankees, bibs and bags. One unique thing about ordering from Zerbert Baby is that each order is custom and you are able to design your product via a 123 selction process of assorted designs and textured material. Aundrea has also ventured into making appliqued T's and onesies which are not yet on her website but I'm sure she'd be glad to share options with you if you are interested and contact her via the site.

Now, who wants a ZERBERT?!?!? Ha. Ha. How can you hear that sentence and not just grin from ear to ear remembering playful childhood memories? Clever name, huh? Let's hear it for Zerbert Baby!

TNT TIP
Allison (AKA dalli) says:

WD-40 gets crayon off of walls quickly and easily. NOT that I condone coloring the walls, but with little ones it DOES happen sooner or later.

Thank you, Allison! I know this tip will most definitely come in handy. You get two extra entries in our GIVEAWAY for sharing with us.


Ladies, we want to hear from YOU. Be sure to help your sisters out and send us YOUR tried n' true household tips (TNT Tip). Email them to us at roofwithaview@gmail.com


Savory Smackerel
After a few weeks of some tasty lunch options, we thought it would be fun to break out a breakfast favorite. This easy to make recipe comes from The New Firefighter's Cookbook , and are whipped up in the home of Aundrea (aka Zerbert Baby). She mentioned that whether she makes them for breakfast or dinner they are a crowd pleaser. Double the recipe to ensure extras, and to give your kids a quick and filling breakfast for a couple of days. She also cuts up frozen strawberries (which are a lot cheaper than fresh) to make a yummy topping.

Firehouse Pancakes

Servings: 4-6

• 1 1/3 cups milk
• 2 eggs, slightly beaten
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
• 2 cups sifted all -purpose flour
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar
• 4 tablespoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil

Mix the milk, eggs, and butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir the milk mixture into the flour mixture until moistened.

Heat a lightly oiled griddle until hot. Spoon the mixture onto the griddle by ¼ cups and cook until bubbles appear evenly over the top of each pancake. Turn; cook on the second side until golden. Repeat until all the batter is used up.

Nick Santimauro
Ladder 166, F.D.N.Y.

Click here to print a copy of Firehouse Pancakes!