I Spy Puzzle Bags, a Hearty Casserole, and Fat Quarters

Hi everyone and happy Sunday.  Actually, it isn't all that happy as I am going back to work after a week off, as is my husband and my high school senior also, so we have the Sunday night blues!  But let's skip past the blahs because I am excited to show you these I Spy puzzle bags I made my nephew's boys to send along with the baby gifts for their new sister.  I always try to soften the blow of all the attention heaped on the new baby by making a big deal out of the older siblings.  Anyhow, these puzzle bags were fun to make.  I picked out all kinds of "boy things" to hide in the bags. 

 I don't know if you can tell but those are pellets you buy to stuff toys to give them that "bean bag" feeling.  I bought clear vinyl and looked through my massive fabric stash to find prints that were masculine enough for boys.  I got the idea from Brittany's Best blog.  I made a smaller prototype before I made the big ones and my 21 year old would grab it every time he passed by it on the table!  I hope they like them. 

I also wanted to share the recipe for this cornbread chili casserole because my  guys all gave it the thumbs up.  I don't eat hamburger, so I can't tell you but I trust their judgement!  Here goes:  Take 1 lb. of ground beef and 1 chopped onion and cook together in a skillet about 10 minutes until beef is browned and the onion is soft.  Stir in 1 can of tomato soup, one soup can of water, 1 can of corn, drained, a chopped green bell pepper, 1 1/2 tablespoon chili powder, and salt and pepper.  Simmer over medium heat to blend the flavors about 10 minutes.  Preheat oven to 350.  Transfer mixture to a 2 qt. baking dish.  Prepare 1 package of cornbread(8.5 oz.-I use Jiffy) according to package directions and spread on the meat mixture.  Bake 20-30 minutes until the cornbread is done and the casserole is hot and bubbly.  Pretty easy dinner for a busy week night. 

   I think I mentioned earlier that I participated in a fat quarter swap.  I received my fat quarters and I love them.  They are so bold and vibrant.  My partner Sky picked perfect prints and colors for me.  I have tons of ideas and hopefully this week I will start working on them. 

I have been helping my youngest work on applying for scholarships.  We waited a little longer than we should have and now we are really rushing and burning the midnight oil.  He is also in the process of getting ready to take his driver's test(he is not quite ready), applying for the Animal Management  program at our local college, and getting a part-time job with his brother at our local hospital.  Alot is going on and it is overwhelming all at once.  I hope you all have a great week and I hope everyone has the time to be creative in whatever way you wish.  Take care.  Nancy