Back to School Decorations

My back to school alcove is all done and I am excited to share it with you!  My little guy "designed" the majority of the decorations.  

For directions on how to make the  Crayon Wreath  check out last week's Crafty Friday.

I also made a crayon shadow box with preschool paper and vinyl letters that say "School Rocks."  You can purchase a similar one in my Etsy shop. 

 

My little guy also requested a Back to School plate charger.

I also made a set of Back to School blocks similar to ones in my Etsy shop.  I just tied them with a flat chalkboard looking ribbon because my little guy thought a bow would be "too girly."

My little guy was so excited to see all his "creations" it really helped get him excited for school!! 

Check out my next post for the back-to-school banner I made. 

Tip Tuesday - Dressed Up Towels

In my bathroom I had these towels for years and my husband never said anything but I knew they were a little too flowery for him.

When I was shopping the other day at one of my favorite discount chains I found the striped purple towels on clearance.  When I put them up on the towel bar I thought they were an improvement, but needed something.......

To the rescue .......my ribbon stash!  I took some pieces of leftover cream ribbon and tied them back in the middle.   I think it added just the right amount of pick-me-up that they needed and didn't cost me anything extra!   And my husband likes them so much better than the flowers!  

Recipe Monday - Congo Sqaures

Today's recipe reminds me of growing up and of a relative we had that we called "Red Headed" Cousin Evelyn.  She had this bright red dyed hair and whenever she came to visit she always brought Congo Squares.   They are so yummy and rich and similar to a chocolate chip cookie bar.

Ingredients Needed:

2 2/3 cup sifted flour                     2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt                            2/3 cup shortening
2 1/4 cup packed brown sugar       3 eggs
1 cup chopped walnuts                  1 package chocolate chips

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

First, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl. 

Melt the shortening in a saucepan over low heat stirring frequently.

Once melted add the brown sugar and stir until well mixed.

Allow to cool slightly, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. 

Then add the mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well.

Next, add the chopped walnuts and the chocolate chips mixing well. 

Pour into a greased 13 x 9 x 2 baking pan. 

Bake at 350 degrees for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting.  Then enjoy!!  And if there are any left store in an airtight container.