Ten Valentine's Day Ideas for Kids

Valentine's Day is just over a month away, but there's still plenty of time to do some crafting with the kiddos. If your kids have Valentine's parties at school, you know it's a big deal. The kids in my classroom obsessed over what valentines they would give, and who would give them valentines and candy. Some of the girls would even exchange gifts. While perusing the internet looking for project ideas, I found some really cute ideas for kids.

Wrap up some miniature candy bars and attach them to a handmade card.

Better Homes and Gardens 

What boy wouldn't love getting this robot card and a candy bar?

Better Homes and Gardens

Here's an idea for a small gift of lip balm. This could really be cute with some special paper and embellishments.

Martha Stewart

Make these mini gift bags and fill with treats. 

Martha Stewart

Make a flower bouquet with Tootsie Roll pops. Leave the wrapper on the candy for some cute Valentine's Day gifts. 

Better Homes and Gardens

Wax paper and crayons always make a fun project.

Martha Stewart

Candy and jewelry in one small package. Perfect for any girl. 

Better Homes and Gardens

Fill these felt fortune cookies with candy and a message for cute valentines.

Martha Stewart

Make valentine clothespins and use them to close treat bags.

Martha Stewart

Treat the kids to a fun Valentine's Day meal.

Better Homes and Gardens

Have fun crafting!

What is your favorite gift on Valentine's Day?   

Quick and Easy Taco Soup

Like many of you, I make out a weekly menu and plan my grocery shopping accordingly. Sometimes, though, the week does not go as planned. What I plan for two meals may  last for only one, or I forget a key ingredient to a recipe and don't want to make another trip to the store for one item. This is why I have a well-stocked pantry and easy recipes for last-minute meals. This recipe is a snap to prepare, and it's perfect for a quick family meal.

Microwave Peanut Brittle

The Christmas shopping is done, all the gifts are wrapped, and the house is clean (well, as clean as it's going to get.)  Now it's time to make some Christmas goodies. This year, it's going to be simple and easy. I'm starting with peanut brittle that takes only 7 minutes to cook and is ready to eat in less than 45 minutes. So if you need something quick, this is it.

A Yummy Giveaway from Tillamook!

I'm back from my  blogging break, and to celebrate I'm joining with Tillamook for an exciting giveaway! Keep reading for all the details.

Recently, Tillamook published my  Green Chile Chicken Enchilada recipe in their online cookbook. You'll find this and other delicious recipes and tips from fellow bloggers at www.Tillamook.com/entertaining. I know I'm going to make each of the recipes. They look so good!

Tillamook also has a hardcover cookbook, The Tillamook Cheese Cookbook, with tons of recipes and photos. Two hundred twenty-four pages of yummy recipes celebrating 100 years!

Tillamook wants to give one of Texas Cottage's lucky readers a copy of the cookbook, along with 3 free 1-pound loaf coupons! Won't those come in handy during the Christmas season?

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Wow! Thanksgiving is only 10 days away, and Christmas will be here before we know it. The holiday season is such a busy time for everyone. It's the perfect time for using a slow cooker or, as most of us call it, a crock-pot.  Keep your freezer and pantry stocked with all the ingredients for this easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup. Start it in the morning and dinner will be ready when you return from work or shopping.