How to make your own dog food

I so miss the Natural Pet Food pantry, but they won't make the dog food and put it in my own containers. So I got my creative freak on, searched the internet and came up with this version of my own Dog stew. I used hamburger rather than chicken because I had 2 pounds of ground round in the freezer. Had tomatoes too. And yes, I added a good doggy multivitamin/mineral to romeo's portion. I must admit to trying a bowl myself minus the supplement- although I maybe I should have added it to mine as well- I always wanted a shiny coat! I made enough to freeze for the rest of the week! Might have to try making my own Cat food next.

Doggy Stew- Rob's Version
2 pounds hamburger,browned ( the original recipe calls for 1 cup of boiled chicken
½ cup cooked brown rice
½ cup boiled mixed vegetables ( I used carrots and peas)
1 can of chopped tomatoes or 1 cup of chopped tomatoes (my own addition- my dog loves tomatoes) Red Icculus made a comment that he thought tomatoes- or rather the acid in them causes kidney stones in dogs. I don't know, but both my dog and cat love tomatoes- So ask your vetrinarian or use them at your own risk. This recipe is great with or without them!
3 to 4 Tbsp unsalted chicken broth

Stir together and serve at room temperature. A good doggy multivitamin/mineral supplement (I use Missing Link)may be added for good measure. Be sure to store unused portions in a covered container in the refrigerator and discard remains after 3 days. Or just freeze and thaw.
Find more recipes for dog food at Suite 101

Make your own Instant Oatmeal!

Instant Oatmeal is expensive- so I suggest you make your own- here, from the Cheap Like Me blog is a recipe to make your own instant Oatmeal- super cheap, super tasty!

Cheap Like Me Instant Oatmeal
6 cups rolled oats, divided use
1/2-1 cup light brown sugar (or to taste)
1-2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon allspice
Generous pinch table salt
1 cup powdered milk (optional)
Process 2 cups oats to a powder, then set aside in a bowl large enough to hold all 6 cups. Combine 4 cups of oats with remaining ingredients except powdered milk and process in two batches with two or three 1-second pulses, just so oats are slightly broken. Add to bowl with powdered oats. Add powdered milk. Stir or shake it up.
(Rob's Note; I don't add the powdered milk to the recipe: I use real milk when it is made- just a personal preference)
To serve, place about 1/2 to 1 cup of oatmeal in a bowl and stir in enough boiling water to get the consistency you desire (it may need a minute to thicken). Add any fruit, nuts, maple syrup or other flavorings you want.

How to make frozen Yogurt pops

Photo by Jehrev

I was looking around the blogs and Lifehacker had How to make your own frozen yogurt pops. And it came from family education.com. Whether or not you make your own yogurt, it is an easy recipe. And just in time for those hot summer days.

How to make Italian and French Sodas

This is from The Wisegeek Website:

"Customers at gourmet coffee shops may notice a cold beverage option called an
Italian soda, also known as a creamosa or French soda in different parts of the
world. An Italian soda is a refreshing combination of flavored syrup and club
soda or seltzer water mixed in a cup of ice. The addition of half-and-half or
milk turns an Italian soda into a creamosa or French soda. Some coffeehouses add
a dollop of whipped cream to an Italian soda to create a creamier texture."

First take some sparkling water or seltzer water, some ice in a glass, and about 1/2 to 1 jigger of your favorite flavored syrup
Pour the water into the glass. Leave room to add the syrup. Some like adding the syrup first. It is a matter of taste!

Add the syrup!

Add a jigger of cream or milk ( or in this case Rice milk) to make it a french soda aka a "creamosa"