Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Cinnamon Rhubarb Muffins


Our rhubarb is in full glory in our backyard and we have been giving it away and using it.  We already made a pie, so why not make muffins? These muffins are perfect for breakfast.  They are buttery, cinnamony, and all around delicious.

Let's get to it:

Ingredients
1.5 cups all purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1.5 cups packed brown sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 cup buttermilk
2/3 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups finely chopped rhubarb
For Topping:
.5 cup sugar
2 TBS butter, melted
2 tsp ground cinnamon

In a large bowl, combine the first five ingredients. Combine egg, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla; stir in dry ingredients just until moistened.  Fold in rhubarb.  Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups about half full.  Combine topping ingredients; sprinkle over each muffin.  Bake at 375 degrees F for 16-18 minutes or until muffins test done.


Monday, May 23, 2011

Friendship Bracelets

I love to make friendship bracelets in the car and at home.  They are fun to make and even more fun to give away!

Let's get to it:

Supplies
  • Embroidery Thread (4 of any colors)
  • Scissors
  • Tape






Step 1:

Cut the threads to about 24 inches and tie a knot 2 inches from the top. Then tape it down to a hard surface. (You can also use a clipboard if you are in the car, etc)







Step 2:
Now it is time to begin the knot.  It is tricky to get the hang of at first, but with a little practice you'll be a pro in no time. 
Make a 4 shape with your first string and leave the 3 other strings down.






Step 3:
Pull the tail of the "4" underneath the 3 strings and up through the body of the "4"









Step 4:
Pull the string tight and up to the knot at the top.  Repeat steps 2-4 about 15x with the blue color.
Step 5:
This is what it should look like after you have completed the blue color. Continue with the  next color string (purple) and tie 15 friendship knots again.  Do this with all of the colors until it reaches a desirable length. 






Step 6:
When you have finished the bracelet, tie a knot on the end. You can give this bracelet to a friend or keep it yourself.  To fasten to the wrist, just tie both ends together.
Here is what it should look like when you are all finished. 

You did it! :)