Racketty Scrappety

Signing Off

2008-11-28T10:03:00.003-07:00

Well, my dear scrapping friends, the time has come for me to sign off indefinitely. After a difficult pregnancy, my boys came 3 months early on November 10th. Our Dex didn't survive the journey and has returned to his Heavenly Father. Our life is (even more) chaotic now as we've circled the wagons a little tighter around our family, fighting the good fight alongside our Crew, who remains in the NICU.

I've felt very blessed by my association with you all and your kind and generous words over the last year. I plan to be back some day, with new layouts of our new little guy.

If you'd like to follow Crew's journey, he has his very own blog now: http://crewsjourney.blogspot.com/

Template 59

2008-10-18T18:14:00.001-06:00

I always make the template first and then make some pages with it, to give it a test drive. I've discovered that some designs are easier to work with and more versatile than others. This particular template was super fun and, for whatever reason, I think that this one was easier to use than most.

Credits: Beige paper for main background from "Being Me" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Font is "Pea Courtney". All other papers and elements from "Seeing Stars" kit by Heidi Williams of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Stitching by Racketty Scrappety, included in template.
Credits: Pin from "Girly Grunge" by Lisa Majewski; Doodle from "Seeing Stars" kit by Heidi Williams of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Stitching by Racketty Scrappety, included in template. All papers from Sweet Chic kit by Michelle Coleman of Little Dreamer Designs.

**If you download a template, please take a moment to leave a comment here or on 4shared! Otherwise, I lose motivation to keep posting templates! Thanks so much to those who have sent their thanks and greetings recently and in the past!

Download Template 59 RECTANGLE Here!

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Template 58

2008-10-17T10:56:00.011-06:00

Credits: "Beautiful Journey" kit (including word art) by Michelle Coleman of Little Dreamer Designs
Credits: "A Wildflower Holiday" by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design
Credits: Font is Batik Regular. Blue polka paper is from "Doing the Polka" set by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Striped overlay on red paper from "Painting a Dream" set ty Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflower Design. All other papers and photo corner piece from "Tag Sale" kit by Tracy Collins.

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Template 57

2008-10-17T09:43:00.005-06:00

Therapeutic scrapping! Feels good to finish a page!
Credits: "Sugar and Spice" kit by "Skittles and Scraps"
Credits: "Little Boy" kit by Ana Mara

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Continuing with the Break, LOL!

2008-07-02T14:20:00.002-06:00

Yeah, so I'm not sure when I'll be up to scrapping, LOL! A funny thing happened on the way to the OB this morning. Surprise! Twins! At least now I know why I've been so crazy sick with this pregnancy!!!

On a Break

2008-06-28T09:47:00.002-06:00

Well, for the last several weeks, I have been in the "throws" of first trimester pregnancy with our third little one. It doesn't look like it's going to improve over the next few weeks, and then we'll be traveling to visit family. Keep me in your googlereader so you can know when I get back to scrapping! I miss it already!

Template 56

2008-06-08T20:26:00.004-06:00

Glitter provided by Obsidian Dawn. (Included in template)
Credits: Glitter brush by Obsidian Dawn; Papers from "Painting a Dream" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Font is Dali.

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Template 55

2008-06-07T15:32:00.004-06:00

And thank you so much for the sweet emails inquiring after my health and wellbeing. All is well, better than well, actually. We've traveled and we've had travelers, and have been otherwise wild and crazily busy. I forgot May gets like that sometimes! I need to remember that for next year!
Credits: Schnookums kit by Laura Deacetis. Font is Pea Girly Girls Script.

Credits: Amour kit by Michelle Coleman of Little Dreamer Designs. Font is Pea Janelle.

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Template 54

2008-06-07T15:23:00.002-06:00

I haven't scrapped in a month and a half and I can hardly believe it! The last 6 weeks have been amazingly busy, but fun and fulfilling, so I can't complain. Well, I shouldn't complain, but how can I not when I haven't been able to find time to scrap??! I finally took some time this afternoon and I feel all scrap-happy and fuzzy inside :) Hope you enjoy the template! I'm going to post another one in a few minutes.

Credits: All papers from "Folk Art" kit by Meredith Fenwick. Font is Buccaneer

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Template 53

2008-04-22T08:52:00.008-06:00

Credits: Background paper, teal paper, and red paper for arrow from "Wishing on a Star"; Circle stitching from "Believing in You"; word art and large corner star from "Super Stars". All items from Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Green polka paper from Sweet Shoppe Design and Little Dreamer Designs Charity Collab kit "Stand Up" to benefit "The Alliance for Climate Protection". Font is Pea Jenny. Credits: Font is "Pea Amy", background paper and heart from "Spreading Cheer kit" by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers design. All other papers from Sweet Shoppe Design and Little Dreamer Design's Charity Collab kit "Stand Up" to benefit "The Alliance for Climate Protection". Stitching is mine.

Download Template 53 Rectangle Here!

Download Template 53 Square Here!

Free Quickpages!

2008-04-20T08:40:00.004-06:00

Michelle Coleman of Little Dreamer Designs has posted some Freebie Quick Pages designed by me! :) They were so fun to make and I was so pleased that she liked them enough to post them. I feel positively giddy! I used her "Sweet Chic" kit, plus some dragonflies from her "Sweet June" kit and her new "Floral Spray Brushes". I really love the feminitity of her designs, don't you? There are four quickpages total: Square, rectangle, with brushes, and without.

Go to Michelle's Blog to download them! If you download them, PLEASE be sure to thank her for allowing the use of her beautiful creations to make these free Quick Pages! It was very generous of her!

Template 52

2008-04-18T17:38:00.002-06:00

Credits: Papers and ribbon from "Sweet Chic" kit by Michelle Coleman. Font is Pea HeidiQ
Credits: Papers, clip and bow from "Schnookums" kit by Laura Deacetis. Font is Pea HeidiQ

Download Template 52 Rectangle Here!
Download Template 52 Square Here!

Your Pages

2008-04-04T08:26:00.002-06:00

Thank you so much to you wonderful ladies who sometimes post or email me links to your pages, or the jpegs. It is such a thrill and a privilege for me to see how you have used your creativity to enhance the templates!

Template 51

2008-04-02T18:55:00.003-06:00

I think this is one of my favorite layouts. It was super fun to work with. Enjoy!
Credits: Stars from "Super Stars" by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Papers and flower from "Sweet Chic" by Michelle Coleman. Font is Dave's Hand.
Credits: Stars from "Super Stars". Papers and lettering from "Being Me" kit. Dots overlay from "Painting a Dream". All kits from Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design.

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Check The Link

2008-04-02T18:45:00.003-06:00

The link was crossed for a few minutes, but it was long enough for Template 51's post to hit Googlereader. So make sure you got what you wanted, square or rectangle! I'm going to take down the original post and repost it!

Template 50

2008-03-30T16:37:00.003-06:00

Well, I made it to the big "five-oh". Number 50, who knew? I think this means I'm retiring from templates, LOL. Just kidding :)

Thank you so very much to those of you who have taken the time over the last several months to leave comments. I read every single one and they lift my spirits regularly! They really make me smile, so thank you.

Credits: Background paper from "Wishing on a Star" kit. Stars from "Seeing Stars". All other papers from "Summer Bright" kit by Heidi Williams of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. All elements by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Font is Dave's Hand.

Download Template 50 Rectangle Here!
Download Template 50 Square Here!

Template 49 A and B

2008-03-28T18:54:00.003-06:00

Credits: "Believing in You" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Fonts are Journal and LD Slash Serif.

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Template 48

2008-03-25T14:51:00.004-06:00

Credits: Flower from "Shabby Fall" kit, all stitching from "Believing in You" kit, all papers from "Being Me" kit. All kits by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design.
Credits: "Celebrate" freebie kit from Shabby Princess. Notebook paper from "Welcoming Spring" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design.

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Template 47

2008-03-22T21:39:00.001-06:00

Credits: Green paper from "Being Me" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Everything else from "Believing in You" kit by Gina Marie Huff. Fonts are '28 Days Later' and 'Journal'
Credits: Rope ring, shape of heart, and shape of stars from "Believing in You" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. All papers from "Chirpy Days" kit by Jackie Eckles and Jomi Van Bekkum. Font is 'DavesHand'.

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Links Schminks

2008-03-22T15:20:00.002-06:00

Thanks, Steph, for letting me know I forgot post the links to the template! LOL, it's fixed now :)

Template 46

2008-03-22T14:33:00.005-06:00

Credits: "Believing in You" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design

Download Template 46 Rectangle HERE!
Download Template 46 Square HERE!

Template 45

2008-03-13T21:23:00.003-06:00

Ah, yes. Templates. I do so love scrapping, after all :)

Credits: "1 Fish 2 Fish" kit by Heather Roselli. Journaling font is "Journal".
Credits: "Sweet Chic" kit by Michelle Coleman. Font is Marcelle Script.

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Recipes?? What?

2008-03-13T14:22:00.001-06:00

Pasta Perfect

2008-03-13T13:44:00.001-06:00

A friend recommended this recipe recently. We made it and BAM!! Instant family favorite, no lie. The kids inhaled it and my husband loved it too. It was in a Kraft magazine originally.

Ingredients
3 cups farfalle (bow-tie pasta), uncooked
4 cups broccoli florets (chopped)
3 tbs Kraft roasted red pepper Italian with parmesan dressing
6 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1 ½ pounds)**
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups tomato-basil spaghetti sauce
4 ounces cubed cream cheese (I used fat-free)
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

Directions
Cook pasta as directed on package, adding broccoli to the cooking water for the last 3 minutes of the pasta cooking time. (or steam broccoli separately). Meanwhile, heat dressing in large nonstick skillet on medium heat. Add chicken and garlic. Cook 5 minutes, turn chicken over; continue cooking 4-5 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Drain pasta, return pasta to pan and set aside. Add pasta sauce and cream cheese to chicken in skillet; cook on medium-low heat 2-3 minutes, or until cream cheese is completely melted, mixture is well blended and chicken is coated with sauce, stirring occasionally. Remove chicken from skillet and keep warm. Add sauce mixture to pasta mixture; mix well. Transfer to 6 serving bowls.

Cut chicken crosswise into thick slices. Fan out chicken over pasta mixture in each bowl. Sprinkle evenly with parmesan cheese.

Makes 6 servings, about 1 ½ cups each.

**I cooked two regular breasts of chicken. When it was cooked through, I cut it into bite-sized pieces, smaller would have also worked. I only then added it to the pan and began to cook it up with the dressing and garlic. Also, to serve, I mixed the entire mixture together instead of removing the chicken and fanning it out pretty on top, which would have also been nice.

Italian Chicken

2008-03-13T13:43:00.002-06:00

My husband wooed me with this simple and delicious recipe from his mother when we were dating. It has since become a family favorite. Of course, I'm the one who makes it now, LOL!

Ingredients
4 large frozen chicken breasts
6 slices provolone cheese
1 jar or can of your favorite spaghetti sauce ($.82 Hunts Chunky Garden recently)

Directions:
Place chicken in baking dish. Pour entire can of sauce over the chicken. Bake covered for 60-75 minutes. Remove from oven; drape cheese over the chicken. Recover, continue to cook for 15-25 more minutes.

Spinach Pasta Salad

2008-03-13T13:42:00.002-06:00

Salad:
1 lb. Pasta, cooked al dente, drain, rinse in cold water
3 C cooked chopped chicken
6 oz fresh spinach, shredded/torn (approx 8 cups)
1 C black olives, chopped in 1/4’s
4 oz. Feta cheese, crumbled
3 cups diced tomatoes (grape tomatoes, YUM!)
3/4 C monterrey jack cheese, shredded

Dressing:
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 C olive oil
1/2 C vinegar
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tsp honey
1 clove garlic, minced

Blend dressing ingredients. Pour over mixed salad. Refrigerate 30-60 minutes before serving.

Sensational Salmon or Fabulous Fish

2008-03-13T13:41:00.001-06:00

I love this salmon recipe, from my best friend. You might too.

The quote from Justin: "Are you sure this is healthy? This tastes way too good to be healthy." Kinley and Tanner ate several servings.

Ingredients:
One large salmon filet (Costco's are delicious)
"I can't believe it's not butter" spray (or real butter, as you like)
Lemon pepper

Directions:
Cover a cookie sheet (or something similar to it) in tin foil. Spray with cooking spray. Lay salmon flat on top. Spray with butter all over the top, season liberally with the lemon pepper. Broil uncovered on low for 25-30 minutes in the oven. Delightfully crispy on top, but flaky, moist, and tender inside.

Philly Sandwiches

2008-03-13T13:28:00.004-06:00

My husband loves Philly Sandwiches and I got some ideas from a friend on how to make these. They turned out better than I had even hoped. I've never thought to mix everything together so completely and it made a huge difference. Ha ha, if you are from the east coast, I'm sure these don't look authentic to you, but it's the name we call them around here! Philly Sandwich

Ingredients
1 and 1/2 pounds shredded beef, cooked in a crock pot in advance. I used thin steaks, but a roast will do.
1 green pepper
Entire large package of fresh mushrooms (what is that, 8 oz? 16 oz?)
1 cup diced onion
3 tbs butter
1/2 block of cream cheese (I used fat-free)
1 cup mozzarella cheese.
2 tbs worchestershire sauce
1 clove garlic
salt and pepper to taste

Directions
Use the butter to saute green pepper, onion, mushrooms, and garlic together. Add worchestershire sauce, beef, salt, and pepper. Slowly stir in cream cheese, then mozzarella cheese. Serve immediately on toasted deli rolls.

Notes: This made a SURPRISINGLY large amount of food. We had plenty of leftovers for today. I think one of the keys to success is not having too much beef in the mixture. I prefer it heavy on the toppings, lighter on the beef (strange, since I'm generally a rabid carnivore). But it seemed more flavorful that way. It turned out to be a good thing that I didn't have as much beef as I had hoped to work with :)

Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

2008-03-13T13:20:00.001-06:00

I LOVE the biscuits at Red Lobster, so I tried out this copy cat recipe. They turned out beautifully and they tasted authentic. Delish! My daughter enjoyed eating the batter raw, which I thought was disgusting, but whatever!

Here's the recipe:
Ingredients:
2 cups Bisquick. baking mix
2/3 cup milk
1/2 cup cheddar cheese -- shredded
1/4 cup margarine or butter -- melted
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions:
Preheat oven to 450. Mix baking mix, milk and cheese until soft dough forms; beat vigorously for 30 seconds. Drop dough by spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 min. or until golden brown. Mix margarine and garlic powder; brush over warm biscuits before removing from cookie sheet. Serve warm. Makes 10-12 biscuits.

Company Meatballs

2008-03-13T13:18:00.007-06:00

I received this yummy recipe originally from my wonderful sister-in-law, Kayla! It makes a TON and has been a major hit in our home on every occasion where we have served it.

Meatballs
2 pounds lean ground beef
2 eggs
1 cup dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 tbs salt
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Sauce
4 cups ketchup
3 cups packed brown sugar
1 cup chopped onion
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp liquid smoke (optional, but delicious!)

Directions
In a large bowl, mix all of the meatball ingredients together. Divide into approximately 60 round, 1-inch diameter meatballs. Place in a single layer in one (most likely two) ungreased baking dishes.

Mix sauce ingredients together, pour evenly over meatballs. Cover with foil and bake on 350 for 45-60 minutes.

Slice meatballs, stir around in pan to get a little extra sauce, then put the sliced meatballs on soft sandwich rolls with one slice of provolone cheese. DELISH!!

Brown Rice Salad

2008-03-13T13:18:00.006-06:00

My 2-year old, who traditionally does not eat anything green, won't leave me in peace to eat this salad. I have to share at least half with him.

Brown Rice Salad
Ingredients
Cooked brown rice (warm is the best!)
Chopped romaine lettuce (I just buy it in bags)
Parmesan cheese
Italian dressing

Combine ingredients to taste and voila!

*My sister recommends toasting the brown rice in the oven with the parmesan cheese. It is quite delicious that way, but easier to forego that step. It's really tasty either way, but the oven-toasted, cheesed-up rice is a special touch!

**I like to add shredded chicken or anything else that suits your fancy!

*** I should mention that I don't like brown rice and I don't like lettuce. So there you go. I LOVE THIS SALAD!!!

Apricot Chicken

2008-03-13T13:16:00.006-06:00

Apricot Chicken
Ingredients:
4-8 frozen chicken breasts (just depends on size, generously fill the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan, some overlap ok)
2 cups french dressing
1 and 1/2 cups apricot preserves/jam
1 envelope lipton onion soup

Directions:
Combine dressing, preserves, and soup mix together in a bowl. Pour over the chicken in a 9 x 13 pan. Bake on 350 for 90 minutes. Serve with or over rice.

**Recently I have been adding 1 cup water to the sauce, then when the chicken is done, I have been shredding the chicken and putting it back into the sauce and serving it over the rice that way. It's going farther and the chicken portions make more sense!

Sloppy Joes

2008-03-13T13:16:00.005-06:00

Sloppy Joes
(Adapted slightly from Better Homes and Gardens Crockery Cookbook)

This is a MAJOR hit at our house! We actually serve this to company sometimes and they can't believe how delicious it is. It puts Manwich absolutely to shame!

Ingredients:
3 lb. ground beef
2 C. chopped onion
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 and 1/2 C. ketchup
1 C. chopped green bell pepper
1 C. chopped celery
1/2 C. water
2-4 Tbs. brown sugar
4 Tbs. prepared mustard
4 Tbs. vinegar
4 Tbs. Worcestershire sauce
3 tsp. chili powder

Directions
1. In a large skillet cook ground beef, onion, and garlic till meat is brown and onion is tender. Drain off fat.

2. Meanwhile, in a 3 ½-4 qt. crock pot, combine everything else. Stir in meat mixture.

3. Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 6-8 hours or on high-heat setting for 3-4 hours. Spoon into toasted buns, and top with cheese. Makes approx 16-20 servings. Can be frozen in freezer bags after cooking for later consumption.

Ritz Chicken

2008-03-13T13:13:00.003-06:00

The whole family loves this chicken! And it's so easy!

Ritz Chicken
Originally from my friend Lisee

Ingredients
6 large chicken breasts
2 tubes Ritz crackers
6 Tbsp. Parmesan Cheese
1 to 2 cups sour cream (can use fat-free!)
1/3 to 1/2 cup butter, melted (**OPTIONAL! I have been making it without any butter at all for months now and it tastes GREAT!!)

Directions
Put Ritz crackers in a Ziploc bag and smash with rolling pin until crushed into crumbs. Coat chicken with sour cream then roll chicken in Ritz cracker mixture and place in a suitable baking dish. When all of the chicken is in the dish, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and pour melted butter evenly over chicken. Bake uncovered in oven for 60-90 minutes at 350 or until chicken is cooked through.

***Of course you can make it in much smaller increments...but why? ;)

Cottage Cheese Pancakes with Orange Sauce

2008-03-13T13:12:00.002-06:00

I love that the pancakes are so high in protein. We love these around here.

Originally from my friend Hilary C.

Pancakes (Makes about 4 or 5 adult-sized pancakes)
3 eggs
1 cup of cottage cheese
1/2 cup or more of flour.

**I would DEFINITELY make two batches of the pancakes (one batch at a time though, unless you have a gigantic mixing bowl!) for a family of more than 2!

Mix together with electric mixer. I used my food processor this time and it gets more of the chunks out of it, but if it has some in it, it tastes just the same. Pour on griddle and cook on medium heat. These take a litte longer than normal pancakes. Cook till golden brown.

Orange sauce
2 eggs
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
2/3 to 1 cup orange juice
4 T grated orange peel (optional)

Melt butter and sugar in saucepan and let it cool. Add orange juice, eggs, and orange peel. (Adding the OJ first helps to cool the butter/ sugar mixture faster) Boil for one minute and remove from heat. Serve warm over cottage cheese pancakes. * I would not double the sauce part of the recipe; this makes a goodly amount and can be stored!

**Sauce can be frozen and scooped out of freezer bag in desired serving increments if you make this in large enough quantities that you want to save it for a later date. Just reheat on stove or in microwave.

Hawaiian Haystacks

2008-03-13T13:11:00.001-06:00

Hawaiian Haystacks

Ingredients
Rice
Chicken Mix (2 cans fat –free cream of chicken soup, 1 can chicken broth, 2 cups chopped cooked chicken)

Toppings Suggestions
Chow mein noodles
Pineapple tidbits or chunks
Mandarin oranges
Chopped olives
Chopped celery
Chopped tomatoes
Chopped Green Peppers
Almonds
Corn
Peas
Shredded cheese
Coconut
Diced Green Onions (or any kind of onion)

You’ll be REALLY surprised at how delicious it is to mix some (or all, if you're me!) of these ingredients together!

Chicken Alfredo

2008-03-13T13:09:00.002-06:00

I've had some recipe requests come in via email, so I thought I'd post some of them as well as a few of our other family favorites. I'll get back to scrapping too, LOL, but I totally have food on the brain this week!

Chicken Alfredo

Sauce:
1/4 cup butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 clove garlic, crushed
2.5 oz freshly grated Parmesan cheese (Do NOT use the grated cheese in the green can)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Topping:
Diced tomatoes to taste
Diced chicken (Heat up chopped, cooked chicken with: 1 part “dale’s sauce), 2 parts “57 sauce”, 1 part water)
Fettuccini or rigatoni noodles

Directions:
1. Warm diced chicken up in a pan with just enough of the Dale Sauce, 57 Sauce and water to adequately coat the chicken.
2. Melt butter in a separate medium saucepan over medium low heat. Add cream and simmer for 5 minutes, then add garlic and cheese and whisk quickly, heating through. Stir in parsley and serve immediately. Top pasta and sauce with chicken and tomatoes.

Alice Springs Chicken from Outback Steakhouse

2008-03-11T21:56:00.002-06:00

I'm digressing slightly from templates, but I think sharing this recipe is worth it :) It's a knock-off recipe for the Alice Spring's Chicken from Outback Steakhouse. I've slightly modified it from the original and I like it even better. It's a delicacy around here!

Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken
Honey Mustard Marinade:
1 cup Grey Poupon Dijon mustard (divided)
1 cup honey (divided)
1 1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Chicken:
6 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4 cups sliced mushrooms
2 tablespoons butter
salt, pepper, paprika to taste
8 slices bacon, COOKED
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/8 cup fresh parsley (optional)

Directions:
Combine 1/2 cup mustard, 1/2 cup honey, oil and 1 tbs lemon juice in small bowl. Whip mixture for about 30 seconds. Pour as marinade over the chicken breasts and marinate them in the refrigerator, for about 2 hours.

After the chicken has marinated, preheat oven to 375 F and heat up frying pan with 1 teaspoon of oil over medium heat. Sear chicken in pan for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the size of the breast, or until golden brown. **This is the majority of the cooking time, so don't skimp on time. You don't want raw chicken! Remove the pan from heat, and transfer chicken into a baking dish.

As the chicken is cooking, sauté the sliced mushrooms in butter in a separate pan. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika. Mix 1/2 cup honey, 1/2 cup mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice and pour the entire mixture over the chicken.

Stack two pieces of cooked bacon, crosswise, on each chicken breast. Spoon the sautéed mushrooms on the bacon, being sure to coat each breast evenly. Spread 1/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese onto each breast, followed by 1/4 cup of Cheddar. Bake the pan of chicken for 15-30 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly melted and starting to bubble. Sprinkle each chicken breast with 1/2 teaspoon parsley before serving.

Master Menu

2008-03-11T14:21:00.002-06:00

I was a little surprised at how much interest my comment about the master menu generated, LOL! I received several posted comments and a whole lot of emails, and I'm still chuckling. I'm happy to share my menu! My husband just doesn't want anyone showing up on our doorstep for taco night :)

I was so tired of planning over and over and over again our weekly menu, forgetting good recipes, or eating something 4 times in a 2-week period, etc. So much time! So much energy! So much brain power! Just do it once and be done!

My spreadsheet now has 3 pages (tabs, actually). The first page is an overview of the entire 8-week plan. The other two tabs are the first two weeks in detail, including side dishes and master shopping lists. Eventually I'll have tabs for each of the 8 weeks. I've been using the list for two weeks now and I am in loooooove! It's detailed enough to just print and go, no additional thought required. But it's flexible enough to swap out recipes, move things around when plans change, etc. I'm sure I'll need to make some modifications at some point, but it's working well so far.

So, here you go. Click Here.

This can help get the juices flowing on a possible format for your own favorite family recipes. Or maybe you only want a 4 or 6 week rotating menu. Or you want to have spaghetti more often, why not? Or you want more slots to try new recipes, put them in! Think of the food-storage possibilities!! If you know you are going to make spaghetti 6 times a year... buy all 6 jars on sale and be done for the year! Maybe you'll want a Mexican food night... or a soup and salad night... or a seafood night... the possibilities are endless.

Today I went grocery shopping and it was so nice. I knew we weren't going to be around for dinner tonight or tomorrow, so I just crossed all of those ingredients off of my shopping list and bought only the things that we are actually going to eat! No more "we should eat more broccoli, so I'll buy some today", just to let it rot in the crisper. I only bought what I needed, what has a specific purpose for the week. Most importantly I didn't have to plan the menu. I just printed off the list, went through my fridge and cupboards to see what I already had, and went to the store. Very minimal brain power. It frees up brain cells to create templates :)

If any of the recipes I've listed on our own menu intrigue you, let me know; I'm happy to share! Many thanks to my friend Jamie for introducing me to this concept!

Template 44

2008-03-08T15:21:00.002-07:00

Credits: Background paper from "Olivia" kit by Shabby Princess. Everything else from Scrapartist collab "Reverie" kit, with Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers, Amber Clegg, and Jomi Van Bekkum. Font is Kids.

Download Template 44 RECTANGLE Here!
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Easter Journal Highlights

2008-03-06T17:12:00.003-07:00

I'm really feeling the need for spring lately! I thought these would make for some fun little easter and spring highlights. One is in paint, the other in crayon.

Download Journal Highlights HERE!

Template 43

2008-03-05T12:35:00.004-07:00

I dropped off the face of the earth for a while to reorganize my life! It's been a busy several weeks, with one of my greatest accomplishments being an 8-week rotating master menu! I've been making all kinds of lists and goals in a frenzy, trying to organize what has recently become a very chaotic life! I'm feeling better now, ready to head into spring with a framework for our lifestyle instead of flying by the seat of our pants all the time! And it's good to be back to scrapping!

Credits: Gina Cabrera's "Lucky Star" kit. Font is Plastique.
Credits: "Busy Bee" kit by Sarah Jones.

Download Template 43 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template 43 SQUARE Here!

Template 42

2008-02-23T08:02:00.002-07:00

I used Misty Cato's bent photo shadowing tutorial to create some bent images for this template. You can adjust the opacity of the shadows to your taste, as they are separate layers. Enjoy!

Credits: Shannon Carlson's "Brand New Baby" kit. Font is Journal.
Credits: "Being Me" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Fonts are Stamp Act and Journal

Download Template 42 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Tempoate 42 SQUARE Here!

Template 41

2008-02-18T10:02:00.002-07:00

Credits: "Creating Beauty" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design

Download Template 41 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template 41 SQUARE Here!

Template 40

2008-02-12T13:55:00.001-07:00

Credits: "Being Me" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design
Credits: Heather Roselli's "1 Fish 2 Fish" Kit

Download Template 40 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template 40 SQUARE Here!

Template Tutorial

2008-02-10T21:03:00.001-07:00

I've received many emails over the last several weeks with questions on how to get started using templates for PhotoShop or PhotoShop Elements users. Misty Cato does many many fabulous tutorials on a variety of topics (I just learned this afternoon how to make my photos look bent with shadowing, so watch out for that in upcoming templates, LOL!)

The one she does on using layered templates for PSE and PSCS2 users is one of her many fantastic tutorials. For you new converts to the wonders of templates, click here! Be sure to leave her some love while you're there!

Listing of other Misty Cato tutorials here.

Template 39

2008-02-08T20:42:00.000-07:00

Credits: "A Wildflower Holiday" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design.Credits: "Schnookums" kit by Laura Deacetis

Download Template 39 RECTANGLE Here!

Download Template 30 SQUARE Here!

Template 38

2008-02-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

Credits: Heather Roselli's "1 Fish 2 Fish" kit. Font is Staccato 222 BT.

Credits: "Orange Berry Fizz" kit by Michelle Coleman

Download Template #38 RECTANGLE Here!

Download Template #38 SQUARE Here!

Thanks :)

2008-02-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

Um, thank you very much for the many congratulations on our new addition these last few weeks. Alas, I'm afraid your felicitations must be meant for Miss Scrap Andrea. No new babies over here; these are just old pictures :)

Chuckle, chuckle :)

Template 37

2008-02-05T11:39:00.000-07:00

Stitching by Obsidian Dawn.
Credits: "Grungyy Athlete" kit by Calico Designs
Credits: "Second Spring" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design

Download Template 37 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template 37 SQUARE Here!

Template 36

2008-01-31T13:49:00.000-07:00

Credits: "Olivia Kit" by the Shabby Princess
Credits: "Dinner Party" kit by The Shabby Princess

Download Template 36 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template 36 SQUARE Here!

Template 35

2008-01-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

Credits: Fonts are Unicorn and Wesley. Kit is "Schnookums" by Laura Deacetis
Credits: Font is Batik Regular, Kit is "Orange Berry Fizz" by Michelle Coleman. Messy notebook paper is from "Second Spring" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design

Thanks so much for the love!

Download Template 35 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template 35 SQUARE Here!

Template 34

2008-01-24T21:53:00.001-07:00

Credits: I used Rhonna Farrer's "Splish Splash" kit. White brads from Shabby Princess' "Celebrate" kit. Font is "Journal"
Credits: "Folk Art" kit by Meredith Fenwick with Songbird Avenue. Font is "Journal".

Download Template 34 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template 34 SQUARE Here!

Template 33

2008-01-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

This is another template inspired by my dear friend, Mindy. I based this template off this very creative design. Thank you, Mindy!

Credits: "Welcoming Spring" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Font is Stamp Act. Staple from Shabby Princess kit "Painted Summer"
Credits: "Chirpy Days" kit by Jackie Eckles and Jomi Van Bekkum. Fonts are Stamp Act and Whackadoo.

Thanks so much for the love! You are so sweet!

Download Template 33 RECTANGLE Here!

Download Template 33 SQUARE Here!

Template 32

2008-01-17T23:10:00.001-07:00

This template was originally inspired by this layout, created by my good friend Mindy, who started me in this wonderful digital scrapbooking journey. I dedicate this template to her, for her generosity, creativity, and friendship. Thanks, Min!

Credits: "Welcoming Spring" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers Design. Font is Stamp Act

Credits: "Chirpy Days" kit by Jackie Eckles and Jomi Van Bekkum. Font is Painty Paint.

Download Template 32 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template 32 SQUARE Here!

Template 31

2008-01-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

Credits: Robin Carlton's "Baylee" kit

Download Template 31 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template 31 SQUARE Here!

Template 30

2008-01-12T22:11:00.001-07:00

Yes yes! I'll say it! Clearly, I LOVE THIS KIT!!! It's so fun to use!

Credits: Scrapartist collab "Reverie" kit, with Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers, Amber Clegg, and Jomi Van Bekkum

Download Template 30 RECTANGLE Here!

Download Template 30 SQUARE Here!

Template 29

2008-01-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

Two templates for you today, so be sure to check the post below this one! Happy Thursday!

Credits: Heather Roselli's "Boyous" kit.
Credits: Scrapartist collab "Reverie" kit, with Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers, Amber Clegg, and Jomi Van Bekkum

Download Template #29 RECTANGLE Here!

Download Template #29 SQUARE Here!

Template 28

2008-01-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

Credits: Kim Broedelet's kit "Fishing Freebie"
Credits: Miss Mint's "Party Pants" kit

Download Template #28 RECTANGLE Here!
Download Template #28 SQUARE Here!

Link Fixed

2008-01-08T13:03:00.001-07:00

The link is fixed on the square template! Thanks for the heads up!

Template 27

2008-01-08T09:34:00.000-07:00

Credits: "Shabby Fall" kit by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers and Gina Miller

Credits: "Lucky Star" kit by Gina Cabrera

Download Template #27 RECTANGLE Here!

Download Tempalte #27 SQUARE Here!

Template 26 A and B

2008-01-06T16:17:00.000-07:00

Credits: Heather Roselli's "1 Fish 2 Fish" kit

Thanks for the comments! They absolutely make my day!

Download Template 26 A and B RECTANGLE here!
Download Template 26 A and B SQUARE here!

Template 25

2008-01-04T23:25:00.000-07:00

Credits: Shannon Carlson's kit "Brand New Baby"

Credits: Gina Huff's (Weeds and Wildflowers) kit "Creating Beauty"

Thanks for the comments!

Download Template #25 RECTANGLE Here
Download Template #25 SQUARE Here!

12 x 12 Templates #21 - 24

2008-01-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed a happy holiday season. I'm just finishing these up! Now we're done with the reformatting and next we'll be on to fresh new template designs in both dimensions!

There are 4 (5, if you count the double page) templates below. Enjoy all you want! Doodle by Obsidian Dawn (included in template)
Download Square Template #21 Here!

Download Square Template #22 A and B Here!

Download Square Template #23 Here!

Download Square Template #24 Here!

12 x 12 Templates # 16 - 20

2007-12-20T09:14:00.000-07:00

There are 5 (actually, 6) templates in this post. Enjoy as many as you like! Download Square Template #16 Here!

Download Square Template #17 Here!

Download Square Template #18 Here!

Download Square Template #19 Here!

Doodle by Obsidian Dawn (included in template)

Download Square Templates #20A and #20B Here!

12 x 12 Templates #11-15

2007-12-17T21:01:00.000-07:00

There are five templates in this post. Enjoy as many as you like! Download Square Template #11 Here!

Download Square Template #12 Here!

One of my personal favorites below:

Download Square Template #13 Here!

Another favorite: Download Square Template #14 Here!

Download Square Template #15 Here!

Links for Square Templates

2007-12-16T08:51:00.001-07:00

The links for square templates 9 and 10 are fixed! That was so weird! I'd fix one and it would change both! Grr!! If you didn't get the right ones, you can get them below now! Thanks for the heads up!

DIP Users

2007-12-15T20:25:00.001-07:00

Lisa Minor is going to be recreating some of the Racketty Scrappety templates in DIP format for Non-PS users! How generous of her!

If you like my templates, but need DIP, head on over to her blog! Plus, she's got some other cute stuff over there for all digi-scrappers, regardless of software; Enjoy!

http://ronimasil.blogspot.com/

12 x 12 Templates #6-10

2007-12-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

Download Square Template #6 Here!

Download Square Template #7 Here!

Download Square Template #8 Here! Download Suqare Template #9 Here!
Download Square Template #10 Here!

12 x 12 Templates

2007-12-14T14:39:00.001-07:00

I've had several requests for 12 x 12 versions of the templates. Don't worry, my heart still belongs to 8.5 x 11 and I'm sure that all of my example LO's will remain at that size, but it's not too hard to convert some of the templates into a square format when I'm already messing around in the file anyway. So that means that if you need or want the 12 x 12 versions, the first 5 templates are below! Enjoy! Download Square Template #1 Here!

Download Square Template #2 Here!

Download Square Template #3 Here!

Download Square Template #4 Here!

Download Square Template #5 Here!

Template 24

2007-12-13T19:01:00.001-07:00

Credits: all papers, flower, and button are from Retrodiva's "Poppy" kit.

Doodle, staples, and stitching are all Racketty Scrappety originals, and are included in the template. Enjoy!

Download template 24 here!

Thanks for the comments!

Template 23

2007-12-07T19:20:00.000-07:00

The inspiration for the arrangement of the frames came from a layout on Skittles and Scraps, with her blessing. But she has to share; She's my sister, after all :)

I've actually pre-beveled and shadowed the frames (ok, and the stars) for your use; they just need some paper slapped on top of them. I didn't lock them though, if you want to adjust the settings in any way. Everything else is normal, without bevels or shadows. Enjoy!

Thanks so much to those of you who have sent links to your layouts with my templates. They are so wonderful and I love to see the great creativity that you all have! I LOVE to see how they turn out! Thanks! If you want to show me, but don't post online, you can email me a jpeg at the email address on the right.

Credits: All papers and word art come from Shannon Carlson's "Brand New Baby" kit.

Credits: All papers used, word art, alpha, and button come from Robin Carlton's "Baylee" kit.

Download Template 23 Here!

Thanks for the comments!

Template 22A and 22B

2007-12-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

Credits: All papers from Heather Roselli's kit "Boyous".

Download Template 22A and B here!

Thanks for the comments!

Template 21

2007-12-04T22:15:00.000-07:00

Stamped doodle provided by Obsidian Dawn (included in template)
Credits: All papers from Miss Mint's "Party Pants" kit. Swirl doodle by Obsidian Dawn.

Credits: All papers from Jeanelle Paige. Swirly doodle by Obsidian Dawn.
Download Template 21 Here!
Thanks for the comments!

Template 20A and 20B

2007-12-01T09:15:00.000-07:00

I think this just might be one of my favorite templates that I've made. This is a 2-page set.

I've posted several templates and an alpha in the last few days, so be sure you've seen them all; not all of them get listed on every freebie spotlight site, of course, so if you've come today, be sure you didn't miss one that you might like farther down!

Thanks so much for all of your encouraging comments! They keep me posting my templates! And creating templates helps motivate me to get caught up on my own scrapbooking, ha ha ha, so thank you again for the love! Be sure to keep it comin' ;)

Doodle in template provided by Obsidian Dawn.

Download Template 20a and 20b Here!

Credits: All papers are from Michelle Coleman's "Chasing Rainbows" kit. Extra doodle provided by Obsidian Dawn (included in template)

Credits: all papers from Sarah Jones' kit "Busy Bee". Extra doodle from Obsidian Dawn (included in template).

Download Template 20a and 20b Here!

Template 19

2007-12-01T07:26:00.000-07:00

Download Template 19 Here!
Credits: Bleached paper (used on dots) from Michelle Coleman's kit "Spring Breeze". All other papers from Miss Mint's "Party Pants" kit.

Credits: All papers from "Reverie" kit by Weeds and Wildflowers Design

Thanks for the comments!

Download Template 19 Here!

Template 18

2007-11-30T10:59:00.001-07:00

Happy Friday! Here is a template for you!Download Template #18 Here!
Credits: Kim B (Kim Broedelet) "Fishing Freebie" kit
Credits: Jessica Sprague "Flower Girl" kit

Thanks for the love!

Download Template #18 Here!

First Snow Alpha

2007-11-28T14:06:00.000-07:00

I dreamed about this alpha all night long, so I decided I needed to make it this afternoon! It is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, after all! It has a-z, small letters only, in .png format. There is also an exclamation point and a question mark included. Enjoy! Download "First Snow Alpha" Here!

Template 17

2007-11-28T12:58:00.000-07:00

Credits: Cardboard "Charming Grunge" kit by Fafbr. All other papers from "Busy Bee" kit by Sarah Jones.

Credits: Papers from Andrea Burns "Sample Kit #2"

Download freebie template #17 here!

Thanks for the love!

Template 16

2007-11-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

Scrapping is so therapeutic. I intend to do as much as I can during the holidays to keep the stress levels down :) Credits: Zoe Pearn's kit "My Little Sunshine"

Credits: Michelle Coleman's kit "Simply Spring"

Credits: The Shabby Princess kit "Spring Breeze"

Thanks for the love!

Download Template 16 here!

Template 15

2007-11-23T20:33:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving Weekend Template #2. Enjoy!! Thanks for the love!

Scrap pages of the things you are grateful for!

Credits: Kit "Boyous" by Heather Roselli

Credits: Kit "Second Spring" by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers

Download template #15 here!

Template 14

2007-11-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

Happy THANKSGIVING!!

Credits: Kit "Chasing Rainbows" by Michelle Coleman;

Credits: Kit "Lucky Star" by Gina Cabrera

Fetch the FREEBIE TEMPLATE #14 HERE!

Template 13

2007-11-17T10:53:00.000-07:00

Credits: Papers from kit "Welcoming Spring" by Gina Marie Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers. Credits: Papers from "Beautiful Moments" kit by Jenny's Scrap Place.

Do you like the template? Download template #13 here!! Thanks for the comments!

Template 12 A and B

2007-11-10T21:59:00.000-07:00

Ok fine, I guess I was in the mood for one more today :)

I couldn't decide which version I liked better, so I made them both. Enjoy! And THANKS for the comments!

Scroll down! Have you downloaded all of the ones you like?

Credits: I used "My Little Sunshine" papers from Zoe Pearn of Sweet Shoppe Designs.

Download Template 12a HERE!

Download Template 12b HERE!

Template 11

2007-11-10T16:22:00.001-07:00

Two templates today! Here is the second one!

I used Chickypow's "Baba" kit to make this page.

Get the template here!

Template 10

2007-11-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

Credits: Papers from "Creating Beauty" kit by Gina Huff of Weeds and Wildflowers; Alpha also by Gina Huff.

Get the template, with the frame included, HERE! Larger file than usual, sorry!

Template 9

2007-10-25T14:43:00.000-06:00

Big critter is at preschool, little critter is napping....ahhh....scrappin' time!

**The split-frame pictures are merged into one layer, one piece. Just merge the single photo of your choice into the three-square piece/layer and voila! Split-frame effect with one click! Then you can stroke them with an outline or go without. Super easy! (And yes, of course the background behind the split frames is a separate piece). Credits: Fernlili's kit "Summer Crush"

Thanks for the comments! They make me smile...a lot :)

If you like it? Download it! HERE!!

Template 8

2007-10-24T17:20:00.000-06:00

Again with Retrodiva's "Poppy" kit. I do so love that kit. I had fun creating the cluster picture. I've made that section of the template to pop in as just one picture, so it should work without a lot of messy erasing. The "farm-strolling" photo just ached for it!! I hope you have a picture that's perfect for it too! Enjoy! ** The frame cluster is another one-piece layer, separate from the picture behind it.

If you ever use my templates, I'd love to see what you've done with them! They always look so different with another scrapper's special touch!
Download the freebie template here!

Template 7

2007-10-18T13:48:00.000-06:00

I'm so glad we have digi-scrapping. I love to capture how stinkin' cute these little munchkins are! How else to capture the wonder of Papa's farm? I used papers and embellishments from Retrodiva (Tracy Collins) kit "Poppy". It's such a cute kit, I really enjoy scrapping with it.

Getcher template #7 here!

Template 6

2007-10-16T22:33:00.001-06:00

He was my sweet little apple-head baby :) I can't believe how fast they grow! Credits: Papers and elements from Jeanelle Page, "His Stuff"

Thanks so much for all the love! It makes me want to make more templates :)

Download this freebie template here!

Template 5

2007-10-14T07:15:00.000-06:00

I made this page from one of my all time favorite kits. It's called "Lucky Star" from Gina Cabrera. I love it!

Get the freebie template here!

Template 4

2007-10-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

The Shabby Princess was where my digital scrapping journey began. The papers and brads on the page below are from her Spring Breeze kit.

You like the template? Snag it here!

Another Template...of Course!!

2007-10-14T06:21:00.000-06:00

Here is my sweet little Princess snoozing away... Papers and tag from Jenny's Scrap Place, "Beautiful Moments" You can download this template here!

Racketty Scraps

2007-10-13T18:35:00.000-06:00

I love digital scrapping! At the moment, my format of choice is 8.5 x 11. For now, this site is dedicated to templates of this size, in PSD format, and we'll see how it goes in the future ;)

The name Racketty Scrappety comes from the children's book Racketty Packetty House by Frances Hodgson Burnett. We're book lovers around here, and scraplovers as well!

You are welcome to download any template that you fancy! Thanks for stopping by! Scrapping rocks!Kit by Jeanelle Paige, "His Stuff" This is my very first freebie template. You can get it here! And there is another one below!

Kit from Sarah Jones of the Digichick You can grab this freebie here!