Looking Back at Halloween

My favorite holidays to scrapbook are Halloween and Christmas, so its not surprise that I make many albums to have ready or to give away.  When I learned to scrapbook, the rule was keep things simple so that the photo/photos take center stage.  I aimed to do just that with these pages. 

I like making minis because they go together quickly and take less products.  The spider was punched from black glitter paper with a Martha Stewart punch.  Because the page is small, it stands out as the perfect tab for the pocket's flap.

Frugal Shopper

I'm not only frugal when it comes to scrapbooking but I also love to save a penny whenever possible.  A few years ago, I discovered grocery shopping at Aldi.  The stores are bare bones when it comes to products, but they serve my needs for the basics. Their prices are right and the products are quality. 

Over the years I have developed my own favorite recipes using their products.  With summer coming soon, one of my favorite dishes (as well as my family's and freinds') is Taco Salad.  It's easy, simple and fast to make.  Served with a tall glass of ice tea, it makes the perfect summer lunch or supper.

Aldi's Taco Salad

1 pound of ground beef (80/20)
2 cans of Good Harvest pinto beans
1/2 medium onion chopped
1 jalapeno pepper chopped finely
2 envelopes Casa Mamita taco mix
1 bag Milagro tortilla chips
1 bag shredded lettuce
1 package Queso Fresco (mexican style cheese) crumbled
diced tomatoes

Brown the ground beef with the onion and jalapeno pepper.  Drain most of the fat.  Add the can of pinto beans with liquid.  Simmer 10  minutes.  Add taco mix and follow package directions, but only add half the required amount of water.

Layer tortilla chips on a plate.  Ladle taco salad on top, followed by lettuce, tomato and cheese.  Serve immediately.