Pots on the Stove

My Busy Life....and.....Gluten Free Corn Muffins

2012-01-17T21:29:00.006-05:00

It doesn't seem as if I can keep this blog updated very often. I can go weeks without even opening my laptop! I'd love to be able to post once a week now.
Life as a homeschooling mom keeps me busy...VERY busy. I don't love being extremely busy..but I do love spending time with my family. Back in the fall, my mother had major back surgery. The girls and I have spent a lot of our time taking care of my sweet mama and helping her out wherever needed. My church activities keep me busy also. So, with homeschool, helping out family, staying active in church, and just day to day Mom/Wife duties...I've not thought of blogging!
I'm still enjoying making gluten free yummies, making homemade soap..and now even laundry detergent (actually my husband does that!), and also homemade deodorant!
So, I'm going to do my best at sticking to this blog...goal for right now...posting once a week. I'll start back by sharing this recipe for gluten free corn muffins. They are delicious!

1 cup gluten free all purpose flour blend *
1 cup cornmeal (I use corn flour)
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 stick butter, melted
2 eggshttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 12 muffin cups Combine flour blend, corn flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and xanthan gum in a large bowl. Whisk buttermilk, butter, and eggs in a medium bowl; stir into dry ingredients until well blended. Spoon batter into muffin cups and bake 20-25 minutes...until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Cool in pan.

*My gluten free all purpose flour blend is: 2 cups sorghum flour, 2/3 cup potato starch, and 1/3 cup tapioca flour.

This recipe is found in The Gluten-Free Bible.

Chewy Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookies....Gluten Free Style :)

2010-08-19T17:21:00.004-04:00

Before I made the gluten free change, this cookie was a wonderful treat! Soft and chewy, melt in your mouth gooey goodness! This recipe was found on a Land O Lakes butter carton. I recently made some (with wheat flour) for two special sisters going off to college this week and just had to try to make them gluten free. Oh my! They were just as good. I just substituted my Bob's Red Mill gluten free All Purpose Flour for the wheat flour (1:1) and added one teaspoon of xanthan gum.

Chewy Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookies...Gluten Free

4 1/4 cups gluten free All purpose flour
1 teaspoon xanthan gum
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups butter, softened
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 Tablespoon vanilla
1 (12 ounce) package chocolate chunks

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Combine flour, xanthan gum, baking powder and baking soda in a bowl. Set aside.

Combine butter and sugars in a large bowl and beat at medium speed until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla..continue beating until well mixed. Reduce speed to low and gradually add flour mixture, until well mixed. Stir in chocolate chunks.

Drop dough by 1/4 cupfuls, 2 inches apart, onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 10-14 minutes or until light golden brown. Do not overbake. Let stand a couple minutes and then move to cooling rack.

This will make about 26 jumbo cookies.

You can make smaller cookies but I love the jumbo size!

Gluten Free Macaroni Salad

2010-08-09T13:10:00.003-04:00

It has been 6 months since I have blogged. I must admit that I really have not missed it. Next week, we will start a new adventure in my home....I will begin homeschooling my daughters! This will be quite an adjustment. I hope to blog more this next year..about homeschooling and adding more gluten free recipes.

For this macaroni salad, I used Tinkyada brand Brown Rice Penne Pasta. This pasta does not get mushy, like some gluten free pastas can. I only measure the dressing ingredients. For the rest, just throw in however much you like.

Gluten Free Macaroni Salad

1 16 oz bag Tinkyada Brown Rice Penne Pasta, cooked according to package..rinse in cold water and drain thoroughly

Chopped green pepper, red pepper, celery

6 slices crispy, crumbled bacon

Frozen peas

diced cheddar cheese

For the Dressing

3/4 cup mayo..I use Hellman's because it says "Gluten free" on the bottle

1 T mustard

a little salt and pepper to taste

1 T apple cider vinegar

1/3 cup sugar

Mix all the dressing ingredients well

Combine it all in a big bowl (makes a lot), chill and enjoy!

Mashed Cauliflower

2010-02-19T19:56:00.004-05:00

Ok, so I've wanted to mash cauliflower for a while now. I bought me a head of the white stuff and decided it was time. I kept the kids out of the kitchen while I cooked supper last night. Of course I was going to tell them it was cheesy mashed potatoes! I mean really...if I had told them what it really was, they would have never touched it. When they were finally allowed in the kitchen, the room was filled with ooohs and ahhhs! They thought it smelled so good in there and then came "Can I have a bite of mashed taters"..."Well SURE", I said happily. Boy you'd have thought they were the best mashed taters they'd ever put between their lips! So time to plate up supper. Daughter #1 dove right in! Daughter #2 nibbled a bit on everything. She was sick with the wonderful stomach bug, so eating still hasn't been a favorite of hers recently. Onto seconds for Daughter #1. Finally when she was just about done, I couldn't resist..I told her the harsh truth. I thought she was going to give me all of those cheesy mashed "taters" back! So anyway..she recovered and the next morning confessed..."Mama, they were good". So here ya go..my take on Mashed Cauliflower. Try it..you just might like it :)

Mashed Cauliflower

1 med-lg head cauliflower
2 cups chicken broth
4 T butter
2 T heavy cream
3/4 cup shredded gruyere cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
salt
pepper
dash of nutmeg

Cut the cauliflower into small to medium size pieces and cover them with chicken broth into a pot. Boil until it is tender. Drain very well. Add butter, cream, cheeses, salt and pepper to taste, and nutmeg. Mash with electric hand mixer. Will be slightly lumpy...but good :)

Parmesan Chicken

2010-02-04T13:23:00.004-05:00

Going gluten free is definitely an adjustment, but it isn't as hard as it may seem. I keep "safe" flour, etc. on hand. I have made my own gluten free shelf in my pantry with all my goodies. I am finding it fairly easy to substitute in most recipes. For instance, this Parmesan chicken calls for breadcrumbs..but I just used cornmeal instead. It turned out very good!

Parmesan Chicken

1/3 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/4 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs OR cornmeal
1/4 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
4-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
3 Tbsp. butter or margarine, melted

PREHEAT oven to 400°F. Mix cheese, crumbs or cornmeal and seasonings in shallow dish.

DIP chicken in butter; coat with cheese mixture. Place in greased 15x10x1-inch baking pan.

BAKE 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Adapted from KraftFoods

A Woman Inspired

2010-01-28T13:24:00.002-05:00

If you have never "attended" a conference by A Woman Inspired, I highly recommend it. This is an online conference that is a week long. There are many different speakers every day and it is such a blessing to hear these ladies and the topics they are speaking on. This conference is about having a creative and efficient life. I think all of us women probably desire for our lives to be more efficient and creative at times. Check the site out for the next conference and hop on board.

Tomorrow I am planning to post a recipe for gluten free Parmesan chicken..yummy!

Going G-Free

2010-01-11T15:02:00.002-05:00

It's been quite a while since I lasted blogged. One reason is because it was the holiday season and I was quite busy. Another reason is because I have discovered that I have an intolerance to gluten. I was tested for Celiac Disease, but the results were normal. I have learned that even if you do not have the disease, you can still have a gluten intolerance. This really stinks for someone who loves to cook, bake and EAT! So for the last month I have cut gluten from my diet. Now..this doesn't mean that I have cut it completely..there are times when I want a bite of something that someone in my family is having, or when I am just stubborn and think I can handle the effects of that hot dog. I have had tummy troubles for over 10 years and I am really glad that I have discovered what probably is the cause. Fortunately, I don't have to take any medication...all I have to do is leave the gluten out of my diet. This can be hard, but I am learning to manage and adjust. It's amazing how much better I feel! I am reading Elisabeth Hasselbeck's The G-Free Diet. It has been a tremendous help! I will still bake and cook gluten containing meals (for my family) and hopefully get back to blogging. I will even try to include some yummy g-free recipes. I am still learning!! This is going to be a journey full of blessings, bellyaches ;-), and lessons learned!

Award...

2009-11-02T13:20:00.005-05:00

I have received the Lovely Lady Lovely Blog award from my friend Jeni. I feel special to have this because I am not a regular blogger. Jeni and I have never met in person, but we've been buddies for a while now. I hope that one day we will get to meet! Please check out her blog. She posts great recipes, practical ideas and tips and just gives you a sneek peak into her sweet life with her hubby and 3 gorgeous kids. I've now got to pass this award on to 5 lovely ladies..Shannon is expecting her first baby! Shannon loves to decorate her home beautifully and is always sharing great ideas.Lindsey and Sandy are fantastic women with hearts truely on fire for the Lord. Kim is a great lady with great photos! She lives in Savannah, GA which is a place I just adore..check her blog out! Shanda loves the Lord and her family passionately, you'll get lots of insight from her blog.

Enjoy reading these blogs!

Apple Cranberry Crumb Pie

2009-10-15T19:13:00.005-04:00

This is another recipe from recipegirl.com. This pie was oh so good. It will make a great gift or serving for company.

TOPPING:
1 cup flour
½ cup packed golden brown sugar
1/3 cup old-fashioned oats
¾ tsp ground cinnamon
1 stick chilled unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

PIE:
4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into ¾” pieces (should be approximately 5 cups)
16 oz can whole-berry cranberry sauce
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp cornstarch
One 9 inch deep-dish frozen pie shell
vanilla ice cream

1. To prepare topping: Mix flour, brown sugar, oats and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Add butter; cut in with pastry blender or use your fingertips. Keep cutting until mixture resembles coarse meal. Set aside.

2. To prepare filling: Place baking sheet in oven and preheat to 350° F. Toss apples, cranberry sauce, sugar and cornstarch in large bowl until well blended.

3. Transfer apple-cranberry filling to frozen pie shell, mounding in the center. Sprinkle topping over pie. Set pie on baking sheet in oven. Bake until apples are tender, juices bubble thickly and crust is golden, about 1 hour 10 minutes. Transfer to rack. Cool 15 minutes. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Servings: 8
Recipe Source: Adapted from Bon Appetit

Roasted Spicy Mayo Chicken Breasts and Sauteed Spinach & Onions

2009-10-01T20:36:00.005-04:00

Everyone knows how I love Paula Deen and her boys! I have tried many of their recipes and these did not disappoint. I used light mayonnaise to cut back on the fat and it was still very good. I loved the spinach too, so much better than a box of frozen spinach!

Roasted Spicy Mayo Chicken Breasts

1/2 cup mayonnaise (light)
Finely grated zest of 2 lemons
2 tsp paprika
3/4 tsp celery seeds
1 tsp salt, plus additional for seasoning
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus additional for seasoning
Pinch of cayenne pepper
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon zest, paprika, celery seeds, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp pepper,and cayenne.

Season the chicken with the additional salt and pepper. Arrange the chicken on the prepared sheet. Slather the mayo mixture over the chicken. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the juices run clear when the chicken is pricked with a fork.

Sauteed Spinach and Onions

3 Tbsp unsalted butter
1 small onion, halved and thinly sliced
One 9-oz bag baby spinach
3/4 tsp seasoned salt (or The Lady's House Seasoning)
1/2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, or more to taste

Melt the butter in a skillet over med. heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until softened. Add the spinach. Toss to wilt, about 1 minute. Sprinkle with seasoned salt and lemon juice and serve.

Recipe taken from : The Deen Bros. Take it Easy

Please visit my friend Sandy's blog,God Speaks Today, for Fitness Friday info.

Maple-Drizzled Apple Muffins

2009-09-30T20:15:00.004-04:00

Fall has arrived and that means apple season! We are fortunate enough to have our own apple trees and usually get a good amount of apples from them. We do like to make a trip to the mountains in the fall for apples too. Fuji is our favorite! I came across this wonderful website, www.recipegirl.com . I love it! That is where I found this muffin recipe. I hope you will try it and enjoy it too!

MUFFINS:
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup quick-cooking oats
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 Tbs baking powder
1½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup milk
1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted
¼ cup maple syrup
1 large egg, slightly beaten
2 cups chopped, peeled apples (I use Granny Smith)
12 pecan halves

GLAZE:
1/3 cup powdered sugar
2 Tbs maple syrup

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients.

3. In a small bowl, mix milk, butter, syrup and egg; stir into dry ingredients and mix just until moistened. Fold in apples.

4. Fill prepared muffin cups ¾-full (this is easiest to do when you use an ice cream scoop). Top each with a pecan half. Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until muffins test done. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to wire rack to cool completely.

5. For glaze, mix sugar and syrup; drizzle over cooled muffins.

Peach Cobbler

2009-09-23T09:20:00.005-04:00

I had wanted to post this before we entered the Fall season, but it just didn't happen. I used fresh peaches,but it will be OK to use frozen or canned. This recipe is also good as a blueberry or an apple cobbler too! Make sure you have some vanilla ice cream on hand!! Enjoy :-)

Filling
1 stick butter (1/2 stick may be enough too!)
1 tsp. lemon juice
3 cups or so of fresh, sliced peaches
1 Cup sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
dash nutmeg

Topping
1 Cup self-rising flour
1 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 cup milk

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Melt butter in an 8x8 square baking dish.

For filling: In a mixing bowl, combine peaches and lemon juice. Add sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg, mix well. Add the mixture to the baking dish, but do not stir.

For Topping: Combine all topping ingredients. Pour over peaches and bake about 45 minutes or until brown.

Chocolate Chip Pancakes with Cinnamon Cream

2009-09-09T22:04:00.005-04:00

This was taken from a Paula Deen magazine. My children loved it all, the pancakes, the cream and the homemade syrup. It's definitely a weekend meal unless you have lots of time on a weekday morning.

Chocolate Chip Pancakes with Cinnamon Cream

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3 Tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
2 large eggs, separated
3 Tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 cup miniature semisweet chocolate morsels
4 Tablespoons butter, divided
Homemade Maple Syrup
Cinnamon Cream

Preheat griddle to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a small bowl, combine milk, egg yolks, and 3 T melted butter; add to flour mixture, whisking until smooth. In a small bowl, beat egg whites at medium-high speed w/ an electric mixer until stiff. Gently fold into batter. Fold in chocolate morsels. Melt 2 T butter on hot griddle. Ladle about 1/4 cup batter for each pancake onto hot griddle. Cook until top bubbles, turn and cook until done..repeat w/ remaining batter. Serve with Homemade syrup and cinnamon cream.

Homemade Maple Syrup

3 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon maple flavoring

In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, water, vanilla, and maple flavoring. Bring to a boil over med-high heat; boil for 8 minutes. Remove from heat, and let cool.

Cinnamon Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

In a medium bowl (I put my bowl and beaters in the freezer until ready to use), beat cream at med-high speed w/ an electric mixer until thickened. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar and cinnamon, beating until stiff peaks form. Cover, and chill.

No, I haven't fallen off the face of the Earth

2009-08-21T21:17:00.002-04:00

Boy am I a slacker!! Its been almost two months since I have blogged! That is just the summer for me. I have stayed busy with the girls, with the garden:canning and freezing, and I've taken two vacations. I wish I could just live at the beach!! School begins next week and I hope to get back to blogging regularly. I'll be thinking of something yummy to share soon.

Squash Fritters

2009-07-07T17:15:00.004-04:00

Needing a different idea for what to do with all the fresh squash you're getting this summer? This is a simple recipe that some call squash fritters and some call it squash cakes. Whatever you want to call it, give it a try. This recipe makes a lot (6 servings), so you might want to cut the recipe in half the first time.

2 cups grated raw squash
1 small onion, grated (more or less to taste)
1/2 tsp pepper
1 Tablespoon sugar
6 Tablespoons self-rising flour or biscuit mix
2 eggs, slightly beaten
2 tsp. butter, melted
Oil for frying

Mix together squash, onion, pepper and sugar.

Add flour and eggs. Mix only until squash is coated. Stir in butter. Heat oil in pan, just enough to coat well. Drop batter by tablespoons into hot pan. Cook until golden brown and turn once (or more if needed).

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-03T21:30:00.001-04:00

Have a happy and safe holiday!

OREO Ice Cream Cake

2009-06-19T18:20:00.007-04:00

Want a yummy, nice treat for these hot, sunny days? This is it. When I was little, I always wanted an ice cream cake for my birthday...and that is usually what I got. Back then it was actually CAKE in it. As I grew older, there was less and less cake in the ice cream cakes. Why is that?? The other day I really wanted an ice cream cake, with CAKE, so I created this one. I used only one container of ice cream and one jar of hot fudge, but I think next time, I'll double that. I like it oozing w/ all that sugary goodness :)

Oreo Ice Cream Cake

1 package Oreos
1 stick butter, melted
1 box chocolate cake mix (fudge, devil's food, any will do), baked as directed, in 2 square cake pans, let cool
1 jar hot fudge sauce (or 2)
1 container cookies and cream ice cream (or 2)softened in order to spread
2 cans of RediWhip or just use cool whip

Ok, so crush 2-3 cups of oreos, mix w/ the melted butter. Pat that into a large rectangle cake pan (I used an 11x15x2) and bake for 8 minutes at 350 degrees. My crust was kinda hard, but we all liked it. I don't know if skipping the baking step would keep it from being so hard.

Let that cool a bit, then spread most of the hot fudge (not heated) on the crust.

Take your cooled cakes and layer over hot fudge. My cakes didn't fit perfectly, so I sliced them in half and placed cake in pan to cover all of the crust and fudge layer.

Now spread the ice cream over the cake carefully. Cover with the RediWhip or Cool Whip. I used Redi Whip on the edges to pretty it up and spread some on the rest of the cake.

With the remainder of the oreos that were not crushed, break those up over the cake, then take the remainder of the hot fudge sauce and drizzle over top. I did this step after I had froze the cake for a few hours, this time I did heat the fudge sauce. Cover and freeze overnight. Yummo!

Kabobs

2009-05-27T11:07:00.006-04:00

I had been wanting some grilled kabobs all weekend long. Finally on Tuesday I was able to make some.
I used one package of sirloin, 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, two green peppers, two red peppers and two medium-large onions.

Cut sirloin and chicken into chunks. Do the same for the veggies. I put the sirloin and chicken in separate containers. The veggies layered in one dish. Pour some of this yummy, Honey Teriyaki, marinade over the meat and let marinate for a few hours.

I poured some over the veggies probably 30 minutes before cooking the kabobs. You can marinate them as long as you like.

Slide those goodies on the kabobs and grill until done!

Yummo!

German Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake

2009-05-19T21:23:00.003-04:00

Alright..time for a recipe, huh? This one has been requested. I am glad that I made it for our church supper this week..that way it isn't in my house where I will eat it all! I did sneak a piece to try though ;-)

German Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake

1 box German Chocolate cake mix
2 sticks butter, divided & melted
3 large eggs, divided
1 (8oz) block of cream cheese, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 (16oz) box confectioners' sugar
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
1 cup chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 13x9 baking dish w/ cooking spray.

In mixer bowl, combine cake mix, 1 stick melted butter, and 1 egg. Beat at low speed until combined. Press evenly into bottom of baking dish; set aside.

In mixer bowl, beat cream cheese at med. speed until creamy. Beat in remaining 2 eggs and the vanilla. Gradually beat in the confectioners' sugar until smooth. Add the last stick of melted butter, beat at low speed until combined well. Stir in coconut and pecans. Pour evenly over cake mix layer. Bake for 45minutes-1 hour..until center is slightly set. Let cool completely before cutting into squares (this is the hardest step of all).

Roses in the Rain

2009-05-11T13:55:00.006-04:00

Sorry..no recipe today, but I did go out and take a few shots of my roses.

Super Easy Supper

2009-04-23T10:46:00.005-04:00

These are two of my favorite spices to cook with. They add so much flavor to any dish. The Garlic and Rosemary seasoning is from Tone's and I find that at Sam's club. The Black Pepper Seasoned Salt is from Lawry's. It is hard to find, though. Lawry's also makes just a seasoned salt so if thats all you can find, use that and add some fresh cracked black pepper.

The Rosemary and Garlic seasoning is very good on chicken. I took a few chicken breasts,sprinkled them w/ a little salt, coated both sides with the seasoning, drizzled with olive oil and grilled till done. Yummy!!

Ok..now for the black pepper seasoned salt..I love love love to roast potatoes..sweet potatoes and white potatoes together. So..peel and dice a few sweet potatoes. Dice (leave skin on) a few white potatoes. Combine the potatoes, drizzle on some olive oil, stir taters, sprinkle some (sorry, no measurements) black pepper seasoned salt and fresh or dried rosemary on potatoes. Coat them well. Stir it up again, pour onto a pan and roast in oven at 400-425 degrees. They will not take long to cook. What a yummy and flavorful meal!

Farmer's Pork Chops

2009-04-07T17:43:00.005-04:00

This is such a yummy, but rich dish. I've cooked this for friends when someone has a death in the family, a new baby is born, or whatever may come up. It is so good!
Of course, its a Paula Deen recipe :-) I do cook from other cookbooks from time to time, but I love her style.

8 medium potatoes
1/2 medium onion
Salt and pepper to taste
White Sauce (recipe follows)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 Tbsp Seasoned salt
8 pork chops
1/3 cup vegetable oil

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Peel and thinly slice potatoes, cover with cold water. Slice onion into very thin slices. Cut slices in half. Drain potatoes; layer half the potatoes in a well greased 15 x 10 inch casserole dish. (I use the largest I have). Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Scatter half of onion on top of potatoes. Repeat with remaining potatoes and onions. Cover potatoes with white sauce.

Bake uncovered for 15 minutes. Mix together flour and seasoned salt and dredge pork chops in flour mixture. Lightly brown chops in veg. oil. Do not cook them completely. As chops are removed from frying pan, lay them on top of potatoes. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-60 minutes. The juices from the pork chops will drip down into the potatoes and it is sooo delicious!!

WHITE SAUCE
1 stick butter
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1-2 tsp salt
1/2-3/4 tsp pepper
4 cups milk
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Melt butter; remove from heat. Stir in flour; add salt and pepper. Return to heat and cook, stirring constantly until its bubbly. Add milk, 1 cup at a time. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat and simmer 1 to 2 minutes, then let stand at least 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in parsley.

I have been sooo bad!!

2009-04-04T09:02:00.003-04:00

Well obviously blogging has not been high on my list lately. I think I've just gotten spring fever and have gotten behind on blogging. Yesterday was my birthday and I woke up to one of the best gifts ever...a COLD COKE in my fridge, haha! Doesn't take much! My husband knows how much I love me some coke.

I'm Back...and with food!

2009-03-16T10:03:00.007-04:00

Well, I am back.. After a busy week last week, and then a much needed girls getaway over the weekend to a women's conference, I am ready to hit the kitchen. I ate out from Friday lunch until Saturday supper. I was so sick of eating out and couldn't wait to get into my kitchen for a home cooked meal. Its been extremely dreary here too and it just makes for wanting to stay in pajamas and in bed for most of the day. I was tired from my weekend, but Sunday night I had to cook. What better to cook/eat on a rainy weekend, than soup! I whipped up a Potato and Corn soup and it was delicious! This recipe comes from the cookbook, Paula Deen and Friends, and I tweaked it just a hair. Her recipe is called Potato Soup with Shrimp. I have made it that way in the past, but I didn't really care for the shrimp in it. I substituted the corn and it went over very well with my family. I do hope you enjoy it too!

Potato and Corn Soup

1/2 stick of butter
1 small onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced (optional) I didn't add carrots because I didn't have any
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
8-10 medium size white potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 Cups milk
2 chicken bouillon cubes, dissolved in 1/2 cup hot milk
1 qt package of corn (if you freeze your own) or 1-2 cans (use the sweet white kind)
1 cup half-and-half
salt and pepper to taste

In a large saucepan, melt the butter and saute the onion and carrots until both are slightly tender.

Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.

Add the potatoes, corn, milk, and dissolved bouillon cubes. Cook over medium heat until the potatoes are soft.

Add the half-and-half and the salt & pepper. Let cook a few minutes longer and ladle up into bowls..serve with corn bread or crackers.

Busy times..

2009-03-12T10:47:00.002-04:00

Hey guys..I'm sorry I have not blogged in a while. I have been very busy and haven't had a chance. I have been busy with soap and I hope to get back in the kitchen next week!
I hope you will visit my etsy site and take a look at the soaps I have for sale there.

Blessings,

Fruity Curried Chicken Salad

2009-02-27T11:18:00.003-05:00

When I first began blogging, I mentioned that much of my cooking was measurement free. This is one of those recipes. I am trying to eat better and have been bored with sandwiches for lunch. The other day I thought I'd go in the kitchen and whip up some chicken salad. This is different from the traditional southern chicken salad that I normally make...with eggs, and homemade sweet pickle. This turned out so delicious.. I will be making it in a larger portion soon!

One small can chicken breast
1-2 TBSP light mayonnaise (start w/ one tbsp and add more if needed)
not quite 1/4 tsp curry powder
craisins
diced apple
chopped celery
toasted chopped pecans
Fresh spinach

Add as much as you like of the fruit, celery, nuts and curry powder. Its all a personal preference. Mix it all together. Layer some fresh spinach leaves on a plate and spoon chicken salad over spinach. So good!!

Nutter Butter Banana Pudding

2009-02-25T14:29:00.003-05:00

Doesn't that sound gooooood?!?!? Well...it is! I saw a similar recipe in Southern Living and since I love the recipe I already use for banana pudding, I didn't change a thing..except the cookies.
So..if you'd like to try this out, follow my recipe for Banana Pudding and substitute nutter butters for the vanilla wafers. It took almost 2 whole packages of Nutter Butters.

Enchiladas

2009-02-21T21:04:00.003-05:00

Tonight's supper was venison enchiladas. My wonderful husband loves to hunt. We have a freezer full of deer meat. He grinds it into burger and we love to use it in spaghetti sauce, chili, tacos and now...enchiladas. Of course if you don't have access to venison or if you just plain don't like it....use hamburger.

Venison Enchiladas
2lbs ground venison or beef
2 10oz cans enchilada sauce
2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 package taco seasoning
1/3 cup water
6-8 10" tortillas

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Brown meat...add a little salt/pepper or black pepper seasoned salt (I use Lawry's)...then drain
Back to pan, add 1 can sauce, taco seasoning, water and 1 1/2 cups cheese. Stir very well. Spoon some of the beef mixture into the center of each tortilla, roll and wrap ends under. Place, seam side down, in 13X9 casserole dish. I was able to fit 6 tortillas in my dish.

Pour the other can of sauce over the enchiladas, then sprinkle 1 cup of cheese over the enchiladas.

Bake 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted.

If you have any meat mixture left over and you also have extra tortillas, you can always make a pie from what's left. I placed one tortilla in the bottom of a pie plate, filled it w/ the meat mixture, placed another tortilla on top, spread extra sauce over and more cheese. Baked it the same temp and time. The edges curled up during baking, so its not as pretty. I will probably freeze the pie for a later use.

Spicey Honey-Brushed Chicken Thighs

2009-02-13T19:03:00.006-05:00

Here is another "light" recipe. It is my take on one I found online. I am sure you can use chicken breasts, but we just love thighs. They are so tender, moist and full of flavor.

2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 ground red pepper
6-8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
olive oil
1/4 cup honey
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

Combine the first six ingredients. Drizzle the chicken thighs with a little olive oil. Rub or sprinkle the seasoning mixture on both sides of chicken.

Combine honey and vinegar.

Grill chicken 12-15 minutes on both sides. After a few minutes of grilling, brush the honey-vinegar mixture on the chicken. When the chicken is turned, brush other side with honey-vinegar mixture. Chicken is done when a thermometer reads 180 degrees.

It was good with a green salad and corn on the side.

Overnight Apple Oatmeal

2009-02-06T12:22:00.004-05:00

I bought the Fix It and Forget BIG Cookbook a couple of weeks ago. Its the first crock pot cookbook I have ever seen that actually has some good looking recipes in it. It is filled with tons of ideas. I found this recipe in it and decided to give it a go. I am also posting this for the ladies on the fitness blog that I am a part of. If you are interested in joining the fitness blog for accountability, please visit Sandy. We've got some great members and Sandy is the best "coach". She would like me to post a healthy recipe once a week. I am going to try to do that, but it WILL be a challenge for me...y'all know how much I love me some butter and sugar! My plan is to post the "good for you" recipe on Fridays.

This recipe for oatmeal is definitely easy. Its nice to wake up to breakfast already made. Now..I must say..I didn't think it was anything to do flips over...it wasn't outstanding, but it sure beats a pack of nabs or even having absolutely nothing for breakfast. Its true that breakfast is our most important meal of the day. I decided to post it because someone might want to give it a try and possibly play around with it, adding different ingredients.

Overnight Apple Oatmeal

2 cups low fat milk
2 Tbsp. honey or 1/4 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp. butter
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 cup dry rolled oats
1 cup apples, chopped
1/2 cup raisins, optional
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup fat free half and half

Spray inside of slow cooker with non fat cooking spray. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except half and half. Pour into cooker. Cover and cook on LOW overnight, ideally 6-8 hours. Stir in the half and half just before stirring.

A few tips..I used the honey instead of the brown sugar..I didn't think it was sweet enough..so I just added a packet of splenda to my bowl. You may want to experience with the brown sugar. You probably could just use more low fat milk before serving instead of the half and half as well. I had that on hand so I used it. (1/2 & 1/2)I set mine to cook for 7 hours and I think that was a little too much. Go for 6 hours!

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Ambrosia? Fruit Salad?

2009-01-28T13:04:00.004-05:00

While at my great friend Bonnie's , I ate this yummy, low fat dish she made. I called the other day and she couldn't remember the recipe. We think it was a take on Ambrosia, and she knew that it had Dannon vanilla yogurt in it. So I went by the grocery store today and came home and whipped it up. Sandy will be so glad that I am posting something healthy and light! So..it could be called Ambrosia or just fruit salad..doesn't really matter, but its very good! I love the tangy hint from the vanilla yogurt.

3/4 cup dannon light and fit vanilla yogurt (I suppose any would work..this was the lowest in fat, compared to yoplait)

2 bananas, sliced

1 15 oz can mandarin oranges, drained

1 lg can pineapple chunks, drained

maraschino cherries

coconut

Combine all ingredients and chill. I did not add the coconut to mine. My husband doesn't like it, so I just sprinkled some sweetened flaked coconut on my own serving. Put as many cherries in as you like.

Yummy!

Caramel Cake

2009-01-26T13:32:00.004-05:00

This recipe is just for the caramel icing. There was a sweet lady at our church, who has passed away now, that always made a caramel cake and brought to church pot lucks. I always would rave about her cake. It was soo good. One day she gave me her recipe for the caramel icing. I finally made it this weekend, and although it was good, I don't think it was as good as Mrs. Florence's. And that's OK...

Caramel Icing

3/4 cup butter
1 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/3-1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 one lb. box 10X sugar plus 1 additional cup
1 tsp. vanilla flavoring
1 tsp. almond flavoring

Melt butter in saucepan. Add brown sugars and salt. Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add milk, continue stirring until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat, add 10X sugar; beat well. Add flavorings. Thin with more milk if necessary. Put in pan of warm water to keep consistancy and work quickly when frosting cake. This recipe will frost 1 (3 layer) cake.

You can make your cake from scratch or just use a cake mix. I used the butter cake mix and made 3 layers.

Praying for a special family

2009-01-20T15:40:00.000-05:00

There is a special family who needs many prayers. Kelly and Scott tried for a long time to start their family. God blessed them last year and Kelly became pregnant. I have been following their journey by reading Kelly's blog,www.kellyskornerblog.com. Kelly gave birth to a big, beautiful baby girl...Harper...a few days ago. Harper has some serious health issues and they really need prayers. Follow their story for updates on their blog and please join me in praying for this wonderful family.
Thanks so much!

Braised Paprika Chicken

2009-01-17T10:47:00.007-05:00

I found this recipe on foodnetwork.com and thought it sounded really good. I rarely follow recipes exactly this time was no exception. I'll share my take on the recipe. This is one of those comfort food recipes...just so good for a cold winter evening too!

Braised Paprika Chicken
2 Tablespoons Kosher Salt
2 tablespoons paprika (it called for smoked paprika..I didn't have that, the regular was just fine)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2-2 1/2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large sweet onion, quartered and sliced
4 or 5 small-med white potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (or 2 cups) chicken broth, low sodium preferably
salt and pepper

Combine kosher salt, paprika and 1 tsp. pepper. Pat chicken dry and rub the paprika mixture over chicken thighs. Heat a 3-4 qt. dutch oven over med heat and add oil. When it smokes, add chicken. Cook until well browned..about 3 minutes..then flip and repeat.

Transfer chicken to a plate and drain all but 1 tablespoon of drippings. Return to stove on med. heat and add onions, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and softened..about 3 minutes.

Add potatoes and broth and stir. Add chicken back to pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook until chicken is done and potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes. Remove chicken to a plate and cover.

Bring sauce to a boil and cook until slightly reduced..about 10 minutes. Return chicken to pot and turn it to moisten in sauce. Enjoy!!!

I paired this dish with green beans and pineapple casserole.

Simply Soap

2009-01-14T15:00:00.003-05:00

I began making soap in November. I enjoy this new adventure and already have several "customers". I am praying this new little business will soar. If anyone has had success with selling their homemade products, let me know. Here is a shot of a few of my soaps.

Prayers Needed

2009-01-09T11:44:00.002-05:00

This morning at a local school a child was fatally struck by a school bus. This has been a very upsetting, tragic and horrific morning for so many people. I have friends and family who teach at this school and also who attend this school, my nephew being one of them. I ask that all of you stop and just please pray for this family (who lost another child a few years ago as well), the community and all the staff and students at the school.

Cheesy Hasbrown Casserole

2009-01-07T17:53:00.004-05:00

Who doesn't love potatoes? Who doesn't love cheese? Put them together and oh boy does it please! Ok, that might have been a little corny, but really..cheese and potatoes just screams "comfort food". Here is my take on a hashbrown casserole. I love it extra cheesy. Its sooo good!

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

1 bag frozen shredded hashbrown potatoes
1 stick of butter, melted
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 pint sour cream
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
couple tablespoons of finely chopped onion or a few shakes of onion powder (just add this to your own personal liking)

Combine melted butter, soup, sour cream, 2 cups of cheese and onions. Mix well, stir in potatoes. Pour into a 9x13 greased casserole dish. Top with remaining 1 cup cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

* * * HAPPY NEW YEAR * * *

2009-01-01T11:59:00.003-05:00

I want to wish everyone a very happy new year. I hope 2009 is filled with blessings and joy for all of you!

I hope to have some new recipes posted soon so don't forget to check back in!

More Christmas pics and Red Velvet Cake

2008-12-26T10:31:00.005-05:00

I hope all of you have had a wonderful and blessed Christmas. Ours has been full of food, family and fun. I just wanted to invite you into my home once more and this time I'll give ya a slice of cake ;-) Enjoy!

This is my dining room.....we never ate off the Christmas dishes this year!

Master Bathroom

Now for the Red Velvet Cake. What I've learned over the years is that most people have a love/hate relationship with this cake. They either LOVE it or they HATE it. My 5 year old daughter is on the love end of this relationship...as well as myself!

7-layer Red Velvet Cake
(Paula Deen)

2 1/2 cups cake flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 cup whole buttermilk (I can never find whole b-milk, so I use fat free)
2 large eggs
1 (1oz) bottle red food coloring
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 teaspoon vinegar

Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup butter, softened
1 (8oz) cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
7 cups confectioners' sugar

Preheat oven 350 degrees. Grease and flour 2 (9-inch) cake pans. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and salt. Beat in oil, buttermilk, and eggs at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth. Stir in food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar. Pour 3/4 cup of cake batter into each cake pan, turning to distribute evenly. Bake 10 minutes. Let cool in pan 5 minutes; remove from pans, and let cool completely on wire racks.
Wash and dry pans; repeat procedure with remaining batter until all layers are baked. Spread cream cheese frosting evenly between layers and on top and sides of cake.
For the icing: In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Beat in vanilla. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar until smooth.

My home at Christmas

2008-12-23T18:58:00.009-05:00

What a busy few weeks its been!!! With working, school functions, shopping, decorating, and then getting sick...I've been swamped. I did manage to get some pictures taken this evening of some of my decorations. I did not get my bathroom...because of all the laundry sorted on the floor! The Red Velvet Cake is in the oven and I'll post on that tomorrow! Merry Christmas!

Our Christmas tree and garland on the stair-rail

The Mantel (with dirty mirror above)

Beautiful lighted block on the end table

A little snowman complete with a shovel and a little "snowman poop"

Nativity in foyer, my 5 year old set it up this year

Tiny kitchen themed tree

A few Christmas cards lining the doorway from kitchen

We also have another Christmas tree upstairs in the girls' playroom with all their ornaments.
Have a very blessed Christmas!

Carrot Cake

2008-12-04T21:15:00.003-05:00

This is a very delicious carrot cake. It's a Paula Deen recipe..from her first cookbook. I do tweak a couple of things..so the recipe I post will not be exactly like hers..but not far off. I decrease the amount of pecans inside the cake. I never even liked carrot cake until a few years ago when I made this one...and I was hooked ever since. I hope over the next few days I can post some pictures of my Christmas decorations. I love looking at others for inspiration. Be on the look out for another cake coming up....Red Velvet!

Carrot Cake

2 cups all purpose flour
2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
4 eggs
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
3 cups grated carrots
1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add eggs and vegetable oil and mix well; add carrots and pecans. Pour into three 9 inch round greased,floured pans. Bake for approximately 40 minutes. Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes. Remove from pans, place on waxpaper, and allow to cool completely before frosting.

Frosting

One 8oz package cream cheese, softened
1 stick butter
One 16oz box powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Combine all ingredients except for nuts and beat until fluffy. Stir in nuts. Frost cake.

Soap, Holidays and Family

2008-11-21T10:33:00.002-05:00

Its been a while since I last blogged! In that time, I've had a sick child, birthday parties, a messy house, and soap making. I won't post again probably for another week or so...but don't leave me please! I'll be back. I have been experimenting with making soap. Its a lot of fun and I hope to start selling some soon. Thanksgiving is around the corner, so I'll be cooking, eating and spending lots of time with family! I hope all of you have a very wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving! We have so much to be thankful for!

Garlic-Basil Chicken and Pasta

2008-11-11T21:47:00.004-05:00

I wanted to make something different tonight with boneless, skinless chicken tenders. I used what I had on hand. I probably would have use linguine or maybe even fettuccine, but all I had was egg noodles....which worked out great. Give it a try...we loved it.

Garlic-Basil Chicken Pasta

Cook 8 oz of egg noodles..or whatever pasta you prefer (in salted water)
Drain, set aside
Chop 2 cloves of garlic and saute in hot olive oil
Add 1 lb or so of boneless, skinless chicken tenders. Sprinkle both sides with black pepper seasoned salt and sweet basil (I used dry, but fresh would be better I'm sure). Cook until chicken is done.
Add pasta back to pan. Mix together 1 can chicken broth and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch..mix well..then pour over chicken and pasta. Over med-low heat, stir until sauce thickens. Oh yea..I threw in a couple tbsp of butter too.
Enjoy!!

Camping Out Cake

2008-11-07T16:31:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow we are having my daughter's 5th birthday party. She wanted a camping themed party. We are having a camp fire with weenie roast, smores and other goodies. We are also having games and a hay ride. Today I decorated her cake and it was a lot of fun to do. I just wanted to share my pictures of how it began and the results.

Looking for suggestions....

2008-11-03T19:22:00.006-05:00

My guest room needs some freshening up. I need some ideas! Please leave your suggestions. Its kind of a beachy theme in the room. The walls are a bright yellow...this will not change..cause I don't feel like painting them over. The roman shades are a navy blue. The bedspread is navy on one side and a lighter blue on the other. You'll see in the picture that I have the bed up on risers. I like a tall bed. I just need to get a bed skirt for it. I am wondering should I change the bedspread out (FYI the curtains are striped), keep the bedspread and use a white bed skirt? Or another color? I have those little plates to put on the wall too. And there is that wheel..Should I paint it white or stain it. I was going to hang it on that wall (see pic, I was trying it out)...but, it looks so alone and small on that wall. So..you can see from the pics I do need some help ;-)
Now...if my family, who actually uses this room when visiting, is reading..feel free to offer suggestions too :-)

Thanks you guys!!

Pecan-Topped Pumpkin Pie

2008-10-27T14:59:00.005-04:00

It seems I have an obsession with pies lately. Maybe this will be my last pie post for a while..bare with me, but I had to try this pie. It looked so good in the cookbook! I sliced the pie while it was still a bit warm, topped it with cool whip and dug in. It didn't knock my socks off initially, but the second day it was so much better. I just have to learn to be patient and actually wait for certain dishes to chill before I can partake. The cookbook I took it from is Better Homes and Garden. This is a great addition to any cookbook collection. So, give it a try..it gets better the next day! The pecan and brown sugar topping gives it a yummy crunch.

Pecan-Topped Pumpkin Pie

1 recipe for a deep dish pie crust, or use refrigerated pie crust
1 1/4 cups coarsely chopped pecans
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 15 oz. can pumpkin (about 1 3/4 cups)
1 1/2 cups half and half or light cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 eggs, slightly beaten
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
3 tablespoons butter, melted

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare pie crust and place in pie plate. In a small bowl, combine pecans and brown sugar. Spread 3/4 cup pecan mixture in the bottom of the pie crust lined pie plate; reserve remaining pecan mixture. For filling, combine pumpkin, half and half, sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt; mix well.

Place the pie plate on the oven rack (or a pizza pan). Carefully pour filling onto pecan mixture in pie plate. Bake about 50 minutes or just until set in center. Stir melted butter into remaining pecan mixture. Sprinkle pecan mixture over pie filling; bake for 10 minutes more or until topping is bubbly around edges. Cool on wire rack. Cover and chill within 2 hours.

German Chocolate Pecan Pie

2008-10-17T12:58:00.004-04:00

It appears I've got pie on my mind again! This recipe is just sinfully rich..but ohhh so good! I took this recipe from this month's issue of Southern Lady, well just the filling part. My pictures aren't that great this time...you'll just have to make your own to get a better look!

German Chocolate Pecan Pie

Use a crust for a 9 inch deep dish. You can use a store bought crust or use the recipe here.

Filling:
1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup dark corn syrup
1/4 cup butter, melted
3 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups pecan halves
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups sweetened flaked coconut.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Put crust in deep dish pie plate, trim edges, fold under and crimp. Bake for 8 minutes and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the sugar and corn syrups. Add melted butter, eggs, vanilla and salt. Whisk until well combined. Stir in pecans. Sprinkle chocolate chips on the bottom of crust, evenly. Then sprinkle coconut on top of chocolate chips. Pour pecan mixture on top of coconut. Bake for 1 hour or until center is set. Cover w/ foil last 10 minutes if needed to prevent excess browning. Cool completely before serving (this is the hardest part!).

The importance of a back-up disc....

2008-10-14T19:52:00.003-04:00

Our lap top CRASHED a couple days ago. We have another computer so I didn't have complete withdrawals ;-). It was still difficult. I am still grieving the loss of all my pictures and videos. My babies, my youngest's 1st dance recital, my oldest's first chapel skit at school. So many memories! We have a lot of work to do to rebuild favorites and such. Our lesson learned is that we really need to back-up our information often in case this happens again. I just loathe a virus! Hopefully a new recipe will be blogged soon..but if not..you know I'm probably busy rebuilding the computer ;-).

Apple Pie

2008-10-10T08:05:00.005-04:00

We have apple trees in our back yard. This year we had the most apples we've ever had. Each fall I make apple pies. I've had to freeze apples too because we've had so many. To me, the best part of an apple pie is the homemade flaky crust! I like to use Granny Smith apples, but any apple will work fine..you just might need to adjust the amount of sugar used.

So, are ya ready? Here it is...

APPLE PIE

Pie Crust
2 cups flour
1/2 Tbsp. sugar
3/4 tsp. salt
3/4 cup vegetable shortening
1 small egg, beaten
1/2 Tbsp. vinegar
5 Tbsp. cold water

In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar and salt. With a pastry blender (or two knives), cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix together egg, vinegar and water, then add to flour mixture. Mix until dough is moist enough to form a ball. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes. Divide dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll one half into a 12 inch circle. Press dough into pie plate (I like to use deep dish). Crimp edges or use a fork to make a decorative border, then prick bottom with a fork. Put the plate in the freezer while preparing the pie filling. The other half of crust will be used on top.

Apple Pie Filling:

5 cups peeled, cored and sliced apples
4 Tbsp. flour
1 1/3 cup sugar (remember I use granny smith apples, you may want to decrease the amount of sugar if using a sweeter apple)
1 tsp. cinnamon
dash of nutmeg
3 Tbsp. butter
3 Tbsp. milk

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix apples, flour, sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir gently. Pour into unbaked pie shell. Dab with butter and pour milk over filling. Roll top crust same as bottom and lift onto filled pie. Crimp edges again and cut an X in the center of pie w/ sharp knife..pull the edges at the center of the X back some to open the center of the pie a little. You can also make a woven lattice top with the top pie crust. Bake for 40-45 minutes.

Game Day Fun

2008-10-06T11:41:00.013-04:00

This weekend my husband, my cousins and myself went to a Virginia Tech football game. We had a lot of fun tailgating and watching the kids play and of course eating..I didn't get any great shots of all the food..it was kind of hard with it all crammed together in the back of a vehicle.

That was our day! One thing that I made that everyone seemed to love was the hot wings. This is how I did it... I bought a 4lb bag of frozen chicken wings. Thawed them almost completely, poured some olive oil on them, salt and pepper..grilled them until done, then tossed them in 1 cup of Frank's Red Hot Buffalo wing sauce. Thats it! Yumm!!!

Game Day Appetizer

2008-10-01T10:47:00.003-04:00

Football season is in and we all like to snack while watching the big game. This cheese ball is so easy to make...with only 4 ingredients...and even better...it tastes great!

Spicy Cheese Ball

8 oz. finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
8 oz. tub softened cream cheese
8 oz. tub softened chives and onion cream cheese
2 teaspoons ground red pepper (this is enough for us, but you may want to add another 1/2 tsp.)

Mix all into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap and chill for a few hours.

A Southern Treat.....Pineapple Casserole

2008-09-28T20:19:00.003-04:00

This recipe might sound strange to some, but it really is very delicious. I like it as a side dish, but many like it as a dessert.

Pineapple Casserole

1 cup sugar
6 tablespoons flour (all-purpose)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Two 20 oz. cans pineapple chunks or tidbits, drained..reserve 6 Tbsp of juice
1 cup Ritz cracker crumbs
1 stick butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In mixing bowl, combine sugar and flour. Gradually stir in cheese. Add pineapple and stir well. Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish. Combine cracker crumbs, butter and juice and spread on top of pineapple mixture. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Meet the newest members of our family....

2008-09-24T16:28:00.003-04:00

This is Molly

This is Charlotte

Sweet Potato Biscuits

2008-09-19T10:33:00.004-04:00

These biscuits are soooo very delicious!! They are good to eat with a bowl of soup and a slice of country ham inside is so good too!

1 lb. cooked sweet potatoes (I use 2 good sized ones)
1 c. light brown sugar
1/4 c. water
2 1/4 c. Bisquick

Cool and peel sweet potatoes. Mash the sweet potatoes a bit w/ a potato masher, or spoon. Mix together the potatoes, brown sugar, water and Bisquick. Combine ingredients thoroughly. The mixture will be moister than regular biscuits. Flour table/counter and roll biscuit mix to 1/2" thickness. Cut with a biscuit cutter (or cup). Place on greased cookie sheet. Bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees for 16-18 minutes. They do not rise much because of being so moist..keep watch so they don't overcook. Serve with butter...and of course that slice of country ham is a nice addition!

Maple Grilled Salmon and Pineapple Salsa

2008-09-14T20:29:00.009-04:00

Sorry it took so long to post more recipes....We enjoyed this for supper tonight. It was delicious. Hope you will try it out!

Maple Grilled Salmon

1 cup maple syrup
3 Tablespoons orange juice
2 Tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 salmon fillets

In a small saucepan, bring syrup to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil, until reduced to 2/3 cup (about 5-6 minutes). Stir in orange juice, butter, and soy sauce; remove from heat.
Sprinkle fillets with salt. Brush with half of maple mixture. Grill, covered w/ lid, over high heat, basting occasionally w/ maple mixture, 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fish flakes w/ fork.

Pineapple Salsa

1 fresh pineapple, diced
1 small-med red bell pepper, chopped
1 small-med green bell pepper, chopped
1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro
1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon sugar

Combine all ingredients in a bowl, cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

This was the rest of our meal..steamed broccoli and fried corn to go along with the salmon and salsa.

Is this even normal?????

2008-09-02T21:54:00.003-04:00

.....I really don't think so.....at least not for a 4 year old!! We love shoes here. And when I look at this I feel badly for those children that don't have many shoes, or even one good pair. We do loan shoes and give shoes away. Most of these have been handed down from big sister too.
Shoes are a weakness of mine...What's your weakness??

I'll catch up later......

2008-08-26T15:55:00.001-04:00

after I'm done cleaning out my house...yes..cleaning it out..tired of junk, toys and stuff!...This might take a while!

Gearing up for Fall....

2008-08-20T12:18:00.003-04:00

Fall is just around the corner and with cooler weather approaching, I think of bread. Banana bread, Pumpkin bread, Zucchini bread. They're all so good. This summer I made several loaves of zucchini and banana bread and put them in the freezer so that I can just pop them out during the fall. Today it has been cloudy and the temps have dropped some (still warm but not HOT) and it made me ready for some bread. I took out a loaf of Banana Nut w/ Chocolate Chips! Yummy...I couldn't wait for it to thaw as you can see in the picture!

Banana Nut Bread w/ Chocolate Chips

1 stick butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
4 tablespoons milk
1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
2 to 3 well ripe bananas
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips

Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, add eggs, beat well, add flour mixed w/ soda, add milk. Blend well. Add nuts and bananas. Fold in chocolate chips. Bake in a greased loaf pan for about 35 minutes at 350 degrees.

Finding your inner hair color...

2008-08-18T16:54:00.004-04:00

I took one of those silly quizzes online. This one is for discovering your inner hair color. Well, I discovered my hair should be pink! I don't think I really buy it though..the description really doesn't sound like me...well, maybe the insane part!! Try it out and find your inner hair color!

Your Hair Should Be Pink

Hyper, insane, and a boatload of fun.

You're a traveling party that everyone loves to follow.

What's Your Funky Inner Hair Color?

Fresh Peach Pie

2008-08-11T07:22:00.003-04:00

This is a Southern Living recipe and it's delicious. Hope you enjoy!

5 1/2 cups peeled, sliced fresh peaches (3 1/2 lbs)
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pastry for double crust 9 inch pie (refrigerated pie crust works fine too)

Combine first 4 ingredients in a saucepan; set aside until syrup forms. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low, and cook 10 minutes or until peaches are tender, stirring often. Remove from heat; add butter and vanilla, blending well.

Place one pastry in pie plate; trim off excess pastry along edges of pieplate. Spoon filling into pastry shell. Cut remaining pastry into 1/2 inch strips. Arrange strips in lattice design over peaches. Trim strips even with edges; fold edges under, and crimp.

Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes; reduce heat to 350 degrees, and bake 25 to 30 more minutes or until crust is browned. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream!

Favorite Thrift/Yard Sale Finds..

2008-08-07T09:25:00.005-04:00

Today it's all about those neat finds at thrift stores and/or yard sales. I enjoy going thrifting and to yard sales to see what goodies I can find. Rhoda over at www.southernhospitality-rhoda.blogspot.com is hosting this little blog party.. Visit her blog to find more great ideas and cool thrift finds!

I found these two chairs from a consignment shop. I'd been looking for two matching chairs to put with the table in the picture too. The table belonged to my husband's grandmother. When I saw the chairs in the store, I was so excited. They matched perfectly! They were $20 each.

I found this picture in a thrift store the same week as I found those chairs. My guest room has a nautical look to it and this picture was a great find. It is a nice size and goes over the bed well. I believe this was $20 also.

I had been wanting some old kitchen scales for a while. When I saw these scales, I had to get them. I love the rust on them. I found it in an antique store in GA and just wiped them down when we got home. I think they are a nice touch to my kitchen.

Happy Thrifting!

More vacation pictures..

2008-08-04T12:25:00.009-04:00

Just thought I would post some more pictures from our vacation. Not much going on this week, I'll post a Fresh Peach Pie recipe later.

That's all folks!

A Sweet Treat on a Hot Summer Day..

2008-08-01T12:58:00.004-04:00

This is such a yummy recipe. Its very refreshing on a warm day. I hope you will enjoy it too!

Banana Pudding

1 Large box instant vanilla pudding
2 (12 oz) cans evaporated skimmed milk
8 ozs. sour cream (you can use Light)
8 ozs. Cool Whip (you can use Light)
Vanilla Wafers as needed
4 good sized bananas

Mix vanilla pudding with milk. Blend in sour cream until smooth. Then blend in the Cool Whip until the mixture is soft and creamy. In a dish, I prefer a trifle, put a layer of vanilla wafers, bananas and pudding mixture. Layer until all is used. Crush more wafers on top of pudding. Refrigerate overnight.

It's sooooo good to get away....

2008-07-22T20:48:00.011-04:00

Here's a little bit of what's been going on in my world this week...

I really enjoy watching the shrimp boats throughout the day

We watched surfing lessons today

Waiting for the next wave

Nothing like napping on the beach

Beach Time

2008-07-19T21:18:00.003-04:00

I am on vacation this week at the beach. We had a rough start to our week...our van was broken into!! All is well now and we are praying for the rest of our vacation to be a fun and peaceful time.
I'll try to post pictures throughout the week.

I'm Back...

2008-07-08T16:28:00.004-04:00

Wow, its been a while since I last blogged. I have kept up with reading many blogs, but I just haven't taken the time to actually post anything. We had a wonderful visit with family while they were here. The kids played so much and had the best time. While I was away I received a blog award! It came from Robin @ www.robinlynne.org, please check out her blog.
Also while away, my daughter had her tonsils and adenoids removed. I have been playing nurse for several days. She is feeling better everyday. I've read two great books and done lots of laundry. Our garden has been giving us lots of goodies and its been a joy to pick, cook and most importantly eat all those fresh veggies. We're also in the process of "putting up" pickle. So..its been a pretty busy summer so far and we're having a good time. Well, time to get back to the pots on the stove. I'll try to post more often!

Busy Busy Busy...and not much to say...

2008-06-12T10:12:00.002-04:00

I've been kinda quiet this week. Its been the last week of school (hooray!) and its also just been a really busy week. I have family coming in this weekend and staying with us for a week. My family is so excited and can't wait to see them. Its been 7 months since we've seen my brother in law, sister in law and my two nieces. I just known they've grown so much! With that said, I most likely will not be posting for a couple weeks. I am going to be cleaning, cooking and enjoy some good family time!
My oldest daughter will be baptized this Sunday..what a wonderful gift for her daddy! He also gets to assist in the baptism and I know that means so much to him. We are going to have such a special Father's Day and I hope you all do too!

Porch Birds

2008-06-05T17:18:00.006-04:00

Look what we've been watching on our front porch. Last year we had birds in our ferns. This year, they've taken residence in our petunias.

Just waiting......

We're here!!!

Aren't we so cute!

We want some worms!!!

Cheese, Glorious Cheese

2008-06-04T09:05:00.004-04:00

Last night I made some of my girls' favorite foods. I think my oldest fell in love with me all over again! Cheeseburgers, baked beans and macaroni and cheee. I think my husband enjoyed it right much as well;-)
So today I'll share the Macaroni and Cheese recipe with you all. It is a Paula Deen recipe and uses the crock pot. It is soooooo good!

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1/2 stick butter, cut into pieces
2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or you can add a bit more like I do)
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup sour cream
1 (10 3/4 oz) can condensed Cheddar cheese soup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk (2% works fine too)
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Boil the macaroni in a 2 qt sauce pan in plenty of water until tender, about 7 minutes. Drain. In same pan, mix butter and cheese. Stir until the cheese melts (this will look like a big glob of cheese). In crock pot, combine cheese/butter mixture and add the eggs, sour cream, soup, salt, milk, mustard and pepper and stir well. Then add drained macaroni and stir again. Set crock pot on low and cook for 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Now..I cook on high setting and its done in 1 1/2 hours. I stir often to break up that cheese glob.

My Kitchen

2008-05-29T10:33:00.006-04:00

Shannon, at www.thedavisfamilynwa.blogspot.com, is showing off her kitchen and asked for others to play along. This is probably my favorite room in my house. I spend most of my time in this room! I love the size of it...but I don't love having to clean it!

In the frame, is an autographed menu from The Lady and Sons restaurant. Jamie and Bobby Deen signed it!

And now...a recipe!
Remeber the Butter Pecan Cake recipe I posted, well this is a twist and I don't really have a name for it...Lets just call it Chocolate Surprise Cake:

1 cup milk
4 eggs
2/3 cup oil
1 can coconut pecan frosting
1 box german chocolate cake mix

Mix all ingredients together well..pour into a greased and flour tube pan. Bake in a preheated oven..350 degrees.. 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Let cool a few minutes then turn out onto plate. Let cake cool completely (or as long as you can wait)
Then...pour ganache over cake...

Chocolate Ganache
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/4 cups semi sweet chocolate chips

Let cream come to a boil, add chocolate chips and whisk until smooth. Let it cool down some (almost room temp) then pour over cake!

This would be good with fresh whipped cream too!
Enjoy!

Baskets, Bins, Containers......

2008-05-28T11:02:00.003-04:00

Laura at www.orgjunkie.com is hosting a Basket Carnival. She wants to see how we "organize" with baskets...or any other container.
This is a picture of my bathroom closet. I have baskets and clear bins holding the necessary bathroom items. It might not be the neatest, but it works for me!
The other picture is the inside of one of my kitchen drawers. I love these little drawer organizers. They keep all gadgets in order...that is if everyone puts them away correctly.

Gearing up for Summer.....

2008-05-27T17:27:00.003-04:00

I love the beach...and yesterday we had a great time there. I love the smell of the ocean and the sound of the ocean waves. I can always see the amazing work of God's hand when I am at the beach. I am so looking forward to our summer...no school, no schedules. We have a busy summer planned...out of town family visiting, my oldest daughter's baptism, her surgery (tonsils and adenoids), 10 day vacation including 7 wonderful days at the beach, then 3 spent with family we just don't get to see often enough, orthodontist appointments with the oldest. Hopefully August will be a lot of down time playing and enjoying each other.

So what are your plans for the summer?

(I will be putting up a new recipe soon ;-) )

Here is a picture of our little crab friend yesterday at the beach.

The Results are in........

2008-05-20T19:59:00.004-04:00

Its done. My home office is clean and organized. I began one day last week sorting through piles...lots of piles. Then, on Sunday night, my husband and I went in there and tackled it. It took us three and a half hours, but we did it! I did not want to stop once I got going. It feels so good to have that job accomplished. I actually went in there this morning and worked out. We took out two bags full of trash and two boxes full of books. We rearranged just a bit..moving the book case over to another wall and the treadmill out of the middle of the room. Its very refreshing. We also cleaned out and organized our laundry room! Next project...the girls' "library".

W.O.W. Carnival

2008-05-15T13:07:00.005-04:00

Becky, www.everydaybecky.blogspot.com, is hosting a Within One Week Carnival. The topic...a room in your home that is driving you crazy! I have actually posted on this before. My home office is a disaster. Its getting a little better since I've moved my daughter's school desk to the attic and cleaned up all her "papers". This room has a treadmill, gun cabinet, book case, desk, filing cabinet, tv, and piles of stuff in it. I need some order to it as you can tell from the pictures. We are to try to get as much accomplished as we can in this area in one week. It is certainly a challenge, but a motivating one! So lets play along and encourage each other to tackle these areas in our homes.

Experimenting

2008-05-15T12:50:00.003-04:00

Ok..I am trying to learn how to post pictures. Bare with me here folks..I am still learning...so this is going to be a practice post (probably one of many).

Nifty Tips

2008-05-14T12:24:00.003-04:00

Yesterday while waiting at a stop light, I noticed the woman in the car beside me busily doing something. When I looked closer, she was dusting the inside of her car with a Swiffer duster. I thought that was a pretty good idea. I have never thought to keep a duster in the van with me. That would really keep the amount of dust down in the inside of my van, as it gets rather dusty..rather often.
So..does anyone else have any good tips for keeping the inside of your vehicle tidy and clean?

Pasta Salad

2008-05-08T12:59:00.003-04:00

This is a family favorite recipe! I received it from my husband's aunt, I think everyone in the family has the recipe and I'm happy to share it with you!

Pasta Salad

1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled

4 oz. grated cheese

1/4 cup onion (optional, I never use it)

8 oz box sea-shells macaroni or twistie shells, cooked & drained

broccoli

cauliflower

cucumbers

tomatoes

1/4 cup vinegar

1/4 cup mayonaise

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup ranch dressing (add more if you like, I always do)

There are no measurements for the veggies..just chop and use however much you'd like. Combine the pasta, veggies, bacon and cheese. Mix the dressing ingredients and pour over salad. Mix well. You can add more cheese if you like too, I normally do.

Enjoy...this is great on a hot summer day!!

Blessings~

Alyce

God is in control

2008-04-29T09:10:00.002-04:00

"I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the Lord, do all these things." Isaiah 45:7

To some, this verse might not be very important. To many others, today, this verse is extremely significant. I live in Southeast Virginia...very close to where the tornado ripped through yesterday afternoon. We are praising Jesus that we were are safe and our home is not damaged, but my heart just aches for those that were in and around that powerful storm. Isaiah 45:7 shows us that God is in control of all things. He creates light, He creates darkness, He creates the heavy rains and winds. It ALL comes from HIM. The Bible also tells us to give thanks in every situation and sometimes it seems so hard to be thankful when devastation surrounds us, but we have to have faith in knowing that God will bring good things from this disaster.

Please be in prayer for those affected by this tornado that has devastated southeast Virginia as well as the Colonial Heights area of VA.

Blessings~
Alyce

Super Easy, Yummy Cake

2008-04-21T12:23:00.004-04:00

Its been raining here for 2 days now. We need it too. The ground was pretty dry. I actually love rainy days. It seems to cause me to slow down more. I also love the smell of rain on a warm day. It is so nice to cozy up with a good book or magazine, cup of coffee and light a good smellin candle. We sometimes need rainy days to get us to just stay in and focus on God's blessings and provisions. Rainy days are also GREAT days to get in the kitchen and bake! So today, I am going to share with you a recipe for a very easy and very delicious cake!

Butter Pecan Cake

1 cup milk

4 eggs

2/3 cup oil

1 can coconut and pecan frosting

1 box butter pecan cake mix

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a tube pan. Mix all ingredients together with an electric mixer. Pour into pan and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check after 45minutes as ovens vary.

And yes..that is right.. the frosting goes INSIDE the cake. It makes a very moist, yummy cake!

Blessings~

Alyce

Making some changes

2008-04-15T20:59:00.004-04:00

For some time now I have wondered what I was going to do with this blog. One of my passions is cooking. I thought I could establish a blog and share recipes. I really didn't know how to go about it. I also didn't think I had time to create and manage a blog. Finding a creative name for a blog was also an issue, I could just never think of anything....until this evening... The kids wanted me to stay outside with them and I just couldn't because of cooking supper. I told my daughters "I can't.. I've got pots on the stove". It clicked. I thought, oh cool, I'll use that for my title. So.. here it is. I am going to try to post a new recipe as often as I can. The recipe today is for Salmon Cakes. A very easy and yummy dish.. Enjoy!

Salmon Cakes

1 package boneless, skinless pink salmon (this is a vacuum sealed pack)

1/4 cup chopped green pepper

1/4 cup chopped red pepper

1/4 cup chopped onion

1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1 Tbsp lemon juice

about 1/2 tsp black pepper seasoned salt

about 1/2 tsp Old Bay

1 egg

about 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs

Empty salmon into a bowl and flake with fork. Add other ingredients and mix well. Form mixture into 6 cakes or patties. Heat a frying pan, add a little olive oil. Pan fry cakes until done, maybe 5 minutes per side.

I often do not measure my ingredients. When I do create a recipe, I will guess or eyeball ingredients..that is why you will see "about" or "approximately" in some of my recipes.. Just try it and play with it yourself!

Sweet Blessings~

Alyce

Home Problem Area

2008-04-11T10:12:00.002-04:00

Lysa TerKeurst is doing another Swap and Hop! What fun.. This time it is to address an organizational problem area in your home. My biggest problem area is my home office. In this room there is the desk, an end table with the printer on it, a tall filing cabinet that has a small TV on top, a treadmill, a bookcase, gun cabinet (hunters here), and near the bookcase is an area where we have an old school desk that my daughter is suppose to use. And surrounding the desk, is all her stuff. The desk is about to go to the attic, she doesn't use it enough. But its not organized at all and there is STUFF all around. Tons of papers, mail, the "hunting" items, storage boxes (cute ones though) that are under the end table and on top of the filing cabinet, filled with things. What to do????? Some days I get it cleaned and say to everyone "OK, it looks great in here now, now everyone keep things put away". Its a room used for many things obviously, so how do I keep it orderly and classy with all the things that are in there??

Visit Lysa's blog for more ideas www.lysaterkeurst.blogspot.com

Blessings,
Alyce

Mama's sick

2008-03-16T10:12:00.000-04:00

Well, I've done it.. I have gone and gotten myself sick. Moms are not suppose to get sick, right?? I started feeling achey yesterday. I thought that I had just worked out too hard the day before. My body hadn't seen weights and the treadmill in a few weeks. It still didn't explain the headache and the upset stomach. I was hoping it was just a one day deal, but I awoke in the night with fever and my whole body aching again. I don't like being sick. I feel like I can't do anything. I miss out on things. Today I am missing out on what I love..church. I won't get to teach Sunday school to those cute little 2 and 3 year olds. Fortunately my dear husband will do that for me. I won't get to enjoy small group Bible Study after church, luncheon included. My daughter informed us this morning that the Children's Choir is suppose to sing on Palm Sunday. Well..today is Palm Sunday. We were not prepared..and now, I won't get to hear them sing.

I don't want to complain, I know that I need to be thankful in every situation. I can say that lying in bed sick will: 1. allow me to rest, 2. allow my children to make some decisions about certain things on their own and 3. possibly help me to lose a little weight (since I'm not eating well).
I am very thankful that I have a husband that will take care of me and the kids. He's a good husband and daddy and I thank God for him!

Well I guess its time to get back in bed!

Organizing Tips

2008-03-14T14:39:00.000-04:00

Ok.. So..I don't know what I am doing.. I just thought I'd start a blog and post my organizing tip. Lysa is doing this over at her blog and I wanted to try to play along. You can visit her blog here www.lysaterkeurst.blogspot.com

I have tried to include pictures, but I cannot get them to fit. They are really big. If anyone can help that would be great!

I don't have much time, as you can tell. I will have to come back when I have time and energy to put into this and jazz it up some.

I am not a writer and I am not very creative.. that is why I really do not have a blog title. Maybe some of you guys can offer suggestions!?!? I was thinking of . In the Kitchen.. I don't know.. I love to cook and I seem to stay in that particular room of the house.

Anyway.. my tip is:

Cooking Magazines taking up space in your living areas??

This is what I do.. Get several 3 ring binders and some clear sheet protectors. Most of the cooking magazines (Taste of Home, Quick Cooking, Paula Deen) have a recipe index in the back. Fold your magazine to that page. Insert the sheet protectors in the binders and then slide the magazine into the sheet protector. WhaLa! Now you won't have to search the entire magazine to find a recipe.. just look through the index. I also label the outside of the binder with the title of the magazine and the issue dates. I usually can get one -two years worth in one binder.

As for where I hide things when company comes... I have a closet under our stairs. I keep empty laundry baskets in there. When someone is coming over, we get out a basket and collect all the STUFF and then hide it in the closet.

Sweet blessings to you all!

Alyce