Summer To Do's a la Flashcard Style

The "nestlings" and I made a list of things we want to do this summer.

I first saw this idea on whatever and then eighteen25 did a really cute version.

I took down all of the school pictures from the refrigerator.

We wrote our list on the back side of index cards, rounded the corners,

hung them from clothespins,
and called it good.

Sandbags

The "husbird" was up in the wee hours of the morning last night, sandbagging.

The creek that runs along our backyard turns into a river a few weeks
out of every year, but this year it is a raging, very high river.

Houses further down stream were being threatened and so help was
needed from all able body males to place sand bags.

From our bedroom you can hear the river, which is usually a very relaxing sound unless you can't quit thinking about how it might possibly encroach
your yard and house when you're unaware.
Needless to say, we didn't get much sleep.

In the morning we found everything was fine and
the "nestlings" and I went on an adventure to see the streets and
park that flooded in the night.

I walked, they rode their bikes.
I now have a sunburned neck and arms to show for it, but at least I don't have sandbags.
Hopefully I can still say that at the end of the week.

Strawberry Freezer Jam

I bought an over abundance of strawberries, so I decide to make jam.

I made this recipe. It was really easy to make.
It is delicious-- a little runny, and super sweet.
Next time I think I'll half the sugar and maybe use a little less water.
I used whatever glass containers I had on hand, it filled five jars.2 cups crushed fresh strawberries
4 cups sugar
1 (1.75 ounce) package dry pectin
3/4 cup water

1. Mix crushed strawberries with sugar, and let stand for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, stir the pectin into the water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and boil for 1 minute. Stir the boiling water into the strawberries. Allow to stand for 3 minutes before pouring into jars or other storage containers.
2.Place tops on the containers, and leave for 24 hours. Place into freezer, and store frozen until ready to use.

The great thing about this jam is that you can use it for so many things,
on ice cream, toast, and even in frosting.
I added some to Miss "C's" frosting for her birthday cake.
It was super yummy!

BUTTER CREAM FROSTING

1 cup softened butter
3 to 4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
optional: 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 cup milk
optional: 1/4 to 1/2 cup strawberry freezer jam

Try this frosting on a white cake.
You'll love it!

Schools Out For Summer

Yea!
The last day of school was today.
No more schedule to keep.
Freedom,
at least until I can't take it anymore because the "nestlings" start getting grouchy
from staying up late too many nights in a row.
For now I'm embracing it,
taking the "nestlings" to the library, baking cookies, going on walks, bike riding, and swimming, lots of swimming.
Good times.