Foley's Follies

Chicken Scampi

2012-01-03T21:32:00.002-06:00

I've been looking for a tasty Chicken Scampi recipe and over the Holidays I tried one I really liked...

Just look at those sliced onions and peppers of all colors....green, red, yellow and orange! Then some nice chicken tenders and angel hair pasta, what's NOT to like. Add a slice of garlic toast or bread and you're ready to go.

CHICKEN SCAMPI

White Sauce Base:

Heat 1 tablespoon butter in nonstick skillet.
After it's melted, add 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 2 minutes on medium heat. Slowly add milk and stir constantly to get rid of lumps.

When you have added enough milk, you should have like a white gravy consistency. Set this aside.
You will have much more white sauce than you will actually need.

Scampi Sauce:

1 cup (2 sticks) butter

2 tablespoons crushed garlic (real garlic; not salt or the dried stuff)

2 tablespoons chicken stock

3/4 cup Chablis, Riesling or any white as long as it's not too sweet
1 cup water

1/4 cup white sauce

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper

2 tablespoons Italian seasoning

Black pepper to taste

Heat butter over a slow heat.

Add the garlic, Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on low heat.

Add the wine, water, and chicken base. Stir until combined.

Add the white sauce mix and stir until slightly thickened.

Cook 1/2 package angel hair, cooked according to package directions.

Thinly sliced bell peppers (red, green and yellow )

Thinly sliced red onions, about

10 whole garlic cloves

Put the garlic cloves in a small nonstick skillet with some oil and braise them for about 20 minutes on low heat. Just put the lid on the skillet and let them cook, they should be golden and really soft when they are done.

In a large nonstick skillet, saute the peppers and onions for a few minutes. Also, saute chicken tenderloins (however many you feel like cooking or eating!)

Add the angel hair and pour the sauce over. Saute until everything is mixed together and sauce is reheated.

Add garlic cloves, and when mixture is cooked\heated through, serve immediately.

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Firmly believe you should have conversation pieces in most rooms of your house...even the bathroom! (Hopefully you will be conversing with yourself) I like "cutesy" items, like this giraffe

NOW, put it to good use.....

I just love him

Thanks For Stopping By....

Angel Wings

2011-12-18T12:03:00.001-06:00

At Christmas angels are especially important in decorating the house. They remind me of my Mom who loved anything with angels. So when I found these I knew they would be a part of my Christmas this year. The wings just push into any size candle you are using to decorate. These are a rustic metal, I'm going to spray paint another set silver for a different look.

Just in case I don't get another post in I want to wish my readers a very

Merry Christmas!

Chocolate Covered Coconut Macaroons

2011-12-16T16:09:00.003-06:00

For the beginning of some Christmas baking I decided to try something I have never made before this year. I searched about a dozen recipes before I found this video from Alton Brown. I liked the idea of topping the macaroon with some dark chocolate, even though they were fantastic right from the oven without the chocolate!

The edges were crispy, the middle nice and chewy. I'm not a huge fan of coconut, except when it is toasted or baked. These were fantastic, A definite keeper.

Alton uses chopped macadamias, I used chopped pecans. Any chopped nut would work, whatever your favorite nut may be.

NOTE: My oldest stopped over tonight and ended up taking over a dozen home with him, he thought they were awesome and wanted to take some to a friends house! I told you they were good!!

I'm joining Foodie Friday, stop by for some great Christmas goodies!

Thanks For Stopping By...

Pork Chops with Brown Sugar Caramelized Onions

2011-12-10T22:51:00.002-06:00

I used a recipe from Susan at Savoring Time in the Kitchen which she used with a pork tenderloin you can find HERE. Instead of the tenderloin I used center cut pork chops with the bone in.

The caramelized onions with the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar has such a wonderful flavor, the next time I will double the onions and sauce! Coupled with mashed taters and a veggie medley of broccoli, cauliflower and carrots made it a perfect meal.

A house I saw tonight has this in the front lawn - they have a son in the service. A very nice tribute, you can tell we had just a touch of wind tonight, so cold...

Bought Bailey a new toy on Friday and by that evening he had the corner torn apart already..back to the solid toys, no more 'squeakers' for him!

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The Race is On....

2011-11-25T17:21:00.002-06:00

Now with Thanksgiving behind us, literally all that food has to go somewhere, it's time to decide what Christmas baking I will undertake for this season. I've always tried to make some things I have never made and hopefully they will turn out to be a 'favorite'. So for the next week I will be hitting the blogs looking for those special treats to try. Until then, I accomplished the most important task in buying some ingredients. Susan, Savoring Time In The Kitchen, has drilled into my head that you need to use the best chocolate you can find for many of the Christmas treats. Hopefully, Susan will approve...

Some fudge has already been made with the bittersweet, I've resisted any taste testing but I know from just the aroma it will be good. Now just to decide what else will be on my list....

My sister Sue, and her family, came home for Thanksgiving. She stopped at our Aunt Marilyn's or "Mame" as we call her to visit. Mame's African violet was in full bloom...amazing how they bloom at all different times of the year.

Thanks For Stopping By...

Foodie Friday - Flashback Friday

2011-11-18T05:00:00.007-06:00

Joining Gollum for Foodie Friday and Suzy for Flashback Friday to show you again a beautiful Christmas cookie - Paula Deen's Magnolia Lace Trumpets. A little time consuming but well worth it, plus they look fantastic on a cookie tray!

After Thanksgiving I will start making cookies for Christmas trays, freezing them until it's time to make the gift boxes. This is the time of year I really love my food saver!!!

Check out Foodie Friday for some delicious recipes and Flashback Friday for a walk down memory lane...

Thanks For Stopping By....

Bittersweet Wedding....

2011-11-17T12:33:00.002-06:00

On 11-12-11 my nephew Matthew and his beautiful bride, Melissa were married. Matt is the youngest son of my brother Dick, who passed away almost 19 years ago. Matt resembles his Dad so much in looks and personality it's spooky at times! I was so grateful to be able to attend and watch this young man start his new life with Melissa.... I know Dick was smiling down with pride and joy.

The two young men on the right top and bottom are my handsome godsons Mike and Greg. Top photo left is of all my sisters and our 'honorary Mom' Karen. It was great to see all the family that came from Dallas sine we don't see them that often. Even before I thought about it, a few of my sisters yelled "WAIT" at the reception so I could get a photo of the meal....they are evidently getting used to my quirks of getting photos for my blog! (Wait until Thanksgiving)

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What's the Secret to Yeast Breads????

2011-11-06T13:17:00.002-06:00

Found a great recipe for Best Dinner Rolls from the last issue of Taste of Home which used yeast....they did not turn out what I expected! I was looking for an easy to make, flaky dinner roll. They turned out just OK, not great and not wanting to try the recipe again.

The best part were the toppings I used, they were spot on and gave a roll a special taste. The first one I used chopped sliced almonds, kosher salt, basil and oregano. (My version of rosettes) Carol, if you laugh I WILL put a hex on you!

The second one I used poppy seeds, kosher salt, sesame seeds and minced onion.

Like I said, they tasted just OK...anyone have a fool-proof dinner roll that can be shaped into crescents, cloverleaf, rosette or anything else I would want to make???

I had picked up some Krumcakes at the grocer and wanted to do a filling. Found one in the same Taste of Home magazine called Lacy Brandy Snaps. Brandy is not a staple in my liquor cabinet so I substituted Chambrod liqueur..Yummmmm!! I should have just halved the recipe since I have a good bowl full left over..thinking of filling cupcakes with them, even use it as frosting. The filling recipe was so creamy and tasty

FILLING:

4 cups heavy whipping cream

1-3/4 cups confectioners' sugar

1/2 cup brandy

Grated chocolate, optional

(I dipped mine in mini chips and toffee bits)

For filling, in a large bowl, beat cream until it begins to thicken. Add confectioners' sugar and brandy; beat until stiff peaks form. Just before serving, pipe cream mixture into cookies. Sprinkle ends with chocolate if desired. Refrigerate leftovers. Yield: 4 dozen.

Since every new recipe is trial and error I can't expect every one to turn out perfect. We KNOW it has to be the recipe and not me!!! :)

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Crispy Honey Walnut (Pecan) Shrimp

2011-11-04T07:31:00.000-05:00

Last week I took my boys out to lunch at a Chinese place. Nick ordered the Crispy Walnut Shrimp, and of course I took a bite! So good, the sauce just made the dish, something I knew I had to try and recreate. Hit Google and YouTube to get as much info as possible, couldn't believe what a simple dish it was to make.

Luckily I had one last bag of shrimp left from my last purchase of seafood from Fabians Seafood truck that makes the rounds in the midwest straight from the Gulf. (Fantastic shrimp). I used the recipe from the CookBook People, it turned out perfectly. The taste was 98% 'spot-on', I will definitely be making this again. The leftovers were just as good the next day.

The only variation I had to make were the nuts...I would have sworn on a stack of Bibles that I had walnuts, they turned out to be pecans.....tasted just as great with the pecans!

Joining Gollum at Foodie Friday..stop by to see lots of great recipes...

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Apple Filled Phyllo Pockets

2011-10-29T19:49:00.003-05:00

By pure mistake, I had a package of phyllo in my freezer (thought I was grabbing puff pastry) so after seeing this recipe in my magazine I thought I would give it a try! I do NOT have the patience to work with phyllo on a regular basis, but this time it wasn't as horrific as I had remembered. I had some great Honeycrisp apples (my all-time favorite apple) which were perfect for the little delictable dessert ... Apple Filling in Phyllo Pockets from Cooking Club.

Being in a hurry I made a monumental mistake ( I was in "Carol" mode)! Since I only had about 4 Cups of apples I decided to just half the recipe,simple enough. But after I had peeled and chopped all the apples to make 4 cups, that's where I ended halving the recipe! Long story short, I had to spoon off some of the liquid and the apples were a little too cinnamonny but still quite delicious.

The final conclusion was a very good and flaky dessert

To cut some of the cinnamon I topped one with whipped cream. Vanilla ice cream would be fantastic with it also. Since the taste was well worth the effort in dealing with phyllo I can't wait to make them again and follow the recipe correctly. Since the box of phyllo has TWO rolls in it....

there will definitely be a next time!

I had phyllo left over from the first roll, the idea of a savory dish popped into my head. I had a ground beef mixture made up for my loose meat sandwiches so I used that as a filling. Another success.

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Last flowers of the year

2011-10-20T08:24:00.000-05:00

About the only thing still blooming are the Glorious Daisy... love these! The ornamental pepper, Black Pearl I'm going to bring indoors and try to keep it through the winter. If I can get diamond frost make it through the winter the black pearl should be easy! (fingers-crossed)

Cleaning out the fridge again used a half jar of Prego over chicken breasts made a nice yummy meal... Baked in the oven was quick and easy

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October Harvest Moon

2011-10-14T22:09:00.000-05:00

The other night we had a gorgeous moon... the clouds were eerie. Would be a perfect moon for Halloween coming up for Kathleen's witches to fly by......

Thanks For Stopping By ...

Leftovers of the Season ....

2011-08-27T11:34:00.001-05:00

Hard to believe summer is almost over, kids are back to school and I'm starting to make a list of what needs to be done before the snow flies! Not a happy thought to say the least.

Spent the week using up some year end fruit and veggies. First off, I had about four Colorado peaches sitting on the counter. I had my fill of just picking them up, washing them off and eating like an apple so decided to use the rest with some puff pastry.

The peaches were just luscious...what's nice about the puff pastry is you can use this as a dessert or as a pastry for morning breakfast...so it didn't last long. One sheet of thawed puff pastry, sliced peaches placed on a diagonal..bake..brush a little apricot preserves on top..Enjoy!

Next... using up cukes, onions and peppers to make a small batch of refrigerator pickles. I remember my Mom having a huge gallon jar filled with these all summer long. She and Dad would have them as a side for almost every meal.

Slice up desired veggies, add some salt and celery seed. Make a cold brine of sugar and vinegar, pour over the veggies and refrigerate. Simple and so good.

My coleus medley has turned into a giant..it is taking up alot of space but I love it..

Love my whimsy Cosmos...

Bought a little cat bed for the kitties...they are even learning to share, which surprised me

I was going through some of my Mom's old "button jar" items. She used to throw everything in here from buttons, zippers and some "other treasures" that I hadn't seen for many, many years. Can you pick put the special 'treasure'?????

Hint... used before the invention of pantyhose! LOL, But I'm sure Carol still uses them with her fishnets!!

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60th Birthday Party...Not Mine!!

2011-08-07T10:31:00.006-05:00

Spent Friday night at a surprise 60th birthday party for my sister, Sue, in Des Moines. How her two daughters were going to pull this one off was going to be a small miracle, since their Mom is what you call.."very inquisitive".

The party was being held at the Penoach Winery north of Adel. Beautiful country setting with acres and acres of grapes....

Click on any photo to enlarge ...

The winery let us pick any of the grapes in the front row...tasty!

Inside the winery... Favorites were the Iowa Edelweiss and Brianna and Farmhouse White and Dallas County Apple, which would be great warmed! I think you get the picture...all were good!

Sue's two daughters, Amy & Shelly sampling the wines with another sister, Bev before the festivities began...

Had to make the proverbial "60 Sucks" bouquet, I didn't realize they make banana tootsie roll pops!

One of Sue's close friends getting a head start..notice the bottle on the ground, I don't think Diane shared either!!

Sue being escorted into the party by her grandson, Jarret. She was definitely surprised

The birthday cake was very unique..a Coach purse, one that Sue has had her eye on for some time.

It was made by Sweet Celebrations Cakes, check out her website

Sue's hubby, Darrell, the two girls, SIL (that's son-in-law, Sue) Jerome and her two grankids Mackensie and Jarret surprised with the "real" thing!

The rest of the evening was enjoyed listening to a band, a barbecue stand was on hand, and I enjoyed my new favorite wine drink..the "Winerita". You mix 1/2 bag of the Winerita mix with 1/2 bottle of wine of your choice, add ice and blend... FANTASTIC!!

Sue with two of her classmates who surprised her..Linda and Rita

Beautiful evening

The next morning I took a walk around Sue and Darrell's backyard to snap a few photos of the flowers and of Darrell's garden. They make huge batches of salsa every year, so they need lots of tomatoes and peppers. Lots of other goodies also...

Next door neighbor, Gracie

After a few hours shopping and lunch at Huhot Mongolian Grill (first time there) we headed home.

On the way home passed quite a few bikers heading to Sturgis....

NICE view from the back....

Short trip, but lots of fun! As we were reminded the road does go BOTH ways, which is a not-so-subtle hint that we need to visit more often. It's ALL Bev's fault!!!

Thanks For Stopping By....

Late night treat.... Cake in a Cup

2011-07-30T14:47:00.001-05:00

The gal I work with came to the office with this recipe I couldn't quite believe! So simple and gives you the "sweet fix" anytime the mood strikes. Best of all, from start to finish - it takes about 3 minutes!!

You mix one box of angel food cake mix with a box of any other flavor..chocolate, yellow, carrot or any other cake mix flavor you like. I used a Chocolate Devil's Food. Yep, just the two dry mixes is all. Keep the mixture in an air tight container, until you get the 'craving'.

Place 1/3 Cup of mixture in any microwave proof container (I used a rammekin), even a coffee mug. If desired drop a few mini chocolate chips in, nuts or whatever. Stir in 3 tablespoons of water. Microwave for 70 seconds.

Turn out on a small plate, garnish with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, whipped cream, add fruit...again whatever your taste buds are telling you to add. If you must, add a scoop of ice cream!

The angel food mix makes it so light and fluffy! Now, you can have a piece of cake anytime you want and not have a huge cake staring you in the face the next day!

Thanks For Stopping By ...

Fresh Veggies....

2011-07-29T21:18:00.001-05:00

I'm lucky enough to have a sis and BIL who put in a great veggie garden ever year. The very wet spring and extreme heat later took a toll on parts of the garden but they still have a great harvest. I stopped out to Bev and Dave's the other day and came home with some of the produce. Beautiful lettuce, humongous sweet onions, green beans, a few tiny green peppers and cucumbers. The making of a fantastic fresh salad!

My flowers and plants are doing well. My first year with calla lily's..they shot up really fast. Here's a small sampling of my favorites...

I transplanted an Annabelle hydrangea this spring..it is gorgeous

Louie's hair is growing in fast....

BTW, Happy Birthday Breener

Thanks for Stopping By.....

Happy Birthday Baby Kitty...

2011-07-22T18:50:00.001-05:00

My four-legged babies have been begging me all week to go to Baby Kitty's 8th Birthday Party!

I gave in, told them to get on their finest and we would stop in to wish Baby Kitty a very Happy Birthday and all the best wishes in the many years to come!

Lil Claire is such a flirt, she had to wear her finest tiara to try and impress the Birthday Boy... who knows what her gift is. Probably something for herself!!

As you tell by his expression, Louis doesn't like wearing hats very much. But he is being a good sport and even went out and bought his own gift for Baby Kitty! I have no idea what he finally decided on.

Silly Tux would wear ANYTHING, as long as you told him there would be food to eat....

Sweet Bailey simply loves cats, so he was begging to come along....

Thought we were going to be late - Jack is such a goof-ball, I had a terrible time getting his attention. Finally told him we were leaving since we didn't want to be late.

I ran across this detailed description and just had to share it with all the cat lovers out there in the world...

How to Give a Cat a Pill

1. Pick up cat and cradle it in the crook of your left arm as if holding a baby. Position right forefinger and thumb on either side of cat's mouth and gently apply pressure to cheeks while holding pill in right hand. As cat opens mouth, pop pill into mouth. Allow cat to close mouth and swallow.

2. Retrieve pill from floor and cat from behind sofa. Cradle cat in left arm and repeat process.

3. Retrieve cat from bedroom, and throw soggy pill away.

4. Take new pill from foil wrap, cradle cat in left arm, holding rear paws tightly with left hand. Force jaws open and push pill to back of mouth with right forefinger. Hold mouth shut for a count of ten.

5. Retrieve pill from goldfish bowl and cat from top of wardrobe. Call spouse from garden.

6. Kneel on floor with cat wedged firmly between knees, hold front and rear paws. Ignore low growls emitted by cat. Get spouse to hold head firmly with one hand while forcing wooden ruler into mouth. Drop pill down ruler and rub cat's throat vigorously.

7. Retrieve cat from curtain rail, get another pill from foil wrap. Make note to buy new ruler and repair curtains. Carefully sweep shattered figurines and vases from hearth and set to one side for gluing later.

8. Wrap cat in large towel and get spouse to lie on cat with head just visible from below armpit. Put pill in end of drinking straw, force mouth open with pencil and blow down drinking straw.

9. Check label to make sure pill not harmful to humans, drink 1 beer to take taste away. Apply Band-Aid to spouse's forearm and remove blood from carpet with cold water and soap.

10. Retrieve cat from neighbor's shed. Get another pill. Open another beer. Place cat in cupboard, and close door on it to neck, to leave head showing. Force mouth open with dessert spoon. Flick pill down throat with elastic band.

11. Fetch screwdriver from garage and put cupboard door back on hinges. Drink beer. Fetch bottle of scotch. Pour shot, drink. Apply cold compress to cheek and check records for date of last tetanus shot. Apply whiskey compress to cheek to disinfect. Toss back another shot. Throw Tee shirt away and fetch new one from bedroom.

12. Call fire department to retrieve the damn cat from across the road. Apologize to neighbor who crashed into fence while swerving to avoid cat. Take last pill from foil wrap.

13. Tie the little @#$%&*'s front paws to rear paws with garden twine and bind tightly to leg of dining table, find heavy-duty pruning gloves from shed. Push pill into mouth followed by large piece of filet steak. Be rough about it. Hold head vertically and pour 2 pints of water down throat to wash pill down.

14. Consume remainder of scotch. Get spouse to drive you to the emergency room, sit quietly while doctor stitches fingers and forearm and removes pill remnants from right eye. Call furniture shop on way home to order new table.

15. Arrange for SPCA to collect mutant cat from hell and call local pet shop to see if they have any hamsters.

Please take the time to stop in at Baby Kitty's Party - click HERE Thanks so much Debbie for inviting my entire brood!

Thanks for Stopping By.....

Suzy's Ice Cream Social 2011

2011-07-17T15:12:00.000-05:00

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!! This is Bailey's way of screaming...

Joining Suzy at Kitchen Bouquet for her annual ICE CREAM SOCIAL. Make sure you check her blog, which shows all the links to some incredible ice cream concoctions!

This year I didn’t get my ice cream maker out due to some time constraints, however I was able to make an ice cream pie for the chocolate lover at heart…..

S’MORES PIE !

So easy and so good, a fantastic ending to any meal. Or perhaps a slice watching TV at night, or what the heck, breakfast would be turned into a really special experience!

What you need:

A homemade or pre-made graham cracker piecrust

Quart of chocolate ice cream, softened until spreadable

16-17 oz jar of Hot Fudge Ice Cream topping

7 oz jar of Marshmallow crème or fluff (depending on area you live)

2 Cups of miniature marshmallows

Putting it together:

Spread half of softened ice cream evenly into the crust. Pour Hot Fudge evenly over the ice cream. Return to freezer to set, about 10 minutes. Spread remaining ice cream, covering the fudge layer completely. Freeze until firm, at least 4 hours.

Drop marshmallow crème by spoonfuls over top of pie. Using moistened fingertips, spread in an even layer, covering the top of pie completely. Sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top, pressing slightly to adhere. Cover and freeze until firm, about 4 hours.

Preheat broiler. ( I used my torch) Cover piecrust edges with foil. Broil pie just until marshmallows are lightly golden, watching closely to avoid burning, about 1 minute. Serve immediately.

Go ahead…just try to resist a piece! See that big chunk of hot fudge???? Click HERE to see the ice cream medley I made last year for Suzy's Ice Cream Social.

Thanks Suzy for hosting the Ice Cream Social, definitely will get the maker out for next year after seeing some of the recipes posted this year.

Thanks for Stopping By…..

Cathy@ Wives With Knives Did It Again!

2011-05-30T18:38:00.000-05:00

Another winner! Every recipe I try from Cathy @ Wives with Knives has turned out to be amazing, always delicious. This time I tried her Individual Rhubarb Pudding Cakes, you can check out her blog HERE.

I was able to get five out of the ramekins I used, instead of the four on the recipe. I could have made six, since as you can see, mine overflowed just a tad! Live and learn, won't make that mistake the next time. Not sure if I will share these or not.... maybe I'll just make another one in an 8x8 pan and take that one to work.

You won't be disappointed, hurry before the rhubarb season is over. I will be freezing some rhubarb this year so I can 'surprise' myself during the winter months by making something like this again.

Individual Rhubarb Pudding Cakes

Cathy Wives with Knives

1/4 cup water

1-1/2 teaspoons cornstarch

1 cup sugar, divided

3 cups fresh chopped rhubarb stalks

1 cup all purpose flour

1-3/4 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 large egg

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F with the rack in the middle. Butter 4 individual 1-cup ramekins (or an 8 inch square baking dish).

Mix together the water, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup sugar in a small saucepan, then add the 3 cups rhubarb. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, and simmer for 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.

In a separate bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt and remaining 1/2 cup sugar.

In another bowl whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter and vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and whisk just until combined - you will have a thick batter.

Reserve 1/2 cup of the rhubarb syrup mixture. Divide the remaining rhubarb mixture among the dishes, then spoon the batter evenly into each ramekin over the rhubarb. Drizzle the remaining rhubarb mixture over the top of the batter in each ramekin. Bake (I usually put my ramekins on a small sheet pan) until a tester inserted into the middle of the cakes comes out clean, about 20-25 minutes.

Cool slightly on a rack before serving. Serve with some vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a real treat!

Just look at all that rhubarb sauce....

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Baby Tears...

2011-05-28T10:06:00.000-05:00

I've always loved this in a container, the way they will drape over and end of looking like a ball of greenery! Haven't picked the container yet, I have MANY to choose from!

Once I have them planted I'll take a photo, and then see what it looks like at the end of the summer!!

Hope you all have a sunny and dry Memorial Weekend

Thanks For Stopping By....

Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps

2011-05-13T21:37:00.000-05:00

Joining Lynn at Happier Than A Pig In Mud for her celebrity cook-a-long featuring Paula Deen.

The recipe Lynn chose is one of my favorites that I have been making for years...

Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps

Ingredients

· 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless, chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)

· 1 (1-pound) package sliced bacon

· 2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar

· 2 tablespoons chili powder

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Cut each bacon slice into thirds. Wrap each chicken cube with bacon and secure with a wooden pick. Stir together brown sugar and chili powder. Dredge wrapped chicken in mixture. Coat a rack and broiler pan with nonstick cooking spray. Place chicken wrap on rack in broiler pan. Bake 350 for 30 to 35 minutes or until bacon is crisp.

You can put these in a crock pot on low to keep them warm during the party!

These are the first to go at any gathering, so make a double batch. Trust me, everyone will thank-you.

Check out Lynn's blog to link to other recipes from Paula

Thanks For Stopping By....

My first Hummer....

2011-05-11T19:51:00.000-05:00

Hummingbird that is.... I made the 'drink' last night and put out the feeder about 8 pm. This morning I looked out and there was the little beauty. Hope to see him often, and bring friends! My goldfinches showed up at noon, but not fast enough with the camera..soon tho!

Managed to take this photo of a flowering tree on my way to an appointment. I love the looks of these trees..just wish they stayed in bloom longer.

My little hyacinth are blooming also...had to put them on my header...

Thanks For Stopping By....

Happy Mothers Day ...

2011-05-07T20:28:00.000-05:00

Miss You....

Martha's Madelines

2011-04-22T16:06:00.002-05:00

Was going through my files to see what I could post for Flashback Friday, which is hosted by Suzy from Kitchen Bouquet. ( Check out her blog for other flashbacks) THEN, I saw where Carol had posted about her madelines. WELL, let me tell you MY madelines are fantastic, easy to make, and I use a mini madeline pan so you don't feel as guilty when you pop two, three or more in a single setting.

Some I left plain, while others I topped them with powdered sugar. Check out my link from 2009 HERE for the recipe and more photos. Personally, I think using cake flour and adding the lemon oil makes this recipe absolutely scrumptious!!!

I'm also joining Designs by Gollum for Foodie Friday..check out Michael's blog for some great recipes! For a sing-a-long as you're making a batch of these beauties go no futher than "Paddlin Madeline Home"

I love a girl named Madeline

I know she loves me, too

For ev'ry night the moon is bright

She rides in my canoe

At midnight on the river

I heard her father call,

But she don't care and I don't care

If we get back at all

'Cause when I'm paddlin' Madeline home

Gee! When I'm paddlin' Madelin' home

First I drift with the tide,

Then pull for the shore

I hug her and kiss her

And paddle some more

Then I keep paddlin' Madeline home

Until I find a spot where we're alone

Oh! She never says "No"

So I kiss her and go

Paddlin' Madeline

Sweet sweet Madeline

Paddlin' Madeline home

'Cause when I'm paddlin' Madeline home

Gee! When I'm paddlin' Madeline home

First I kiss her a while

And when I get through

I paddle for one mile

And drift back for two

Then I keep paddlin' Madeline home

Until I find a spot where we're alone

Oh! If she'd only say "Throw your paddles away"

Paddlin' Madeline

Sweet sweet Madeline

Paddlin' Madeline home

■This song is performed by various people, the most notable version is by Cliff Edwards who was the voice of Jimminy Cricket.

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Angel Food Cupcakes

2011-04-15T12:18:00.003-05:00

I'm joing Suzy from Kitchen Bouquet for Flashback Friday and Michael at Designs by Gollum for Foodie Friday.

Last year I made these for our Easter celebration, and were thoroughly enjoyed by all. They are definitly my favorite cupcake, with the light sweet angel food and the creamy and oh-so-tasty marshmallow frosting. Click HERE for the recipe!! Thanks to Susan from Savoring Time in the Kitchen for the recipe....

Prepare yourself for an upper lip of gooey frosting

Have to add my "Ode to Tax Day - April 15th"

Thanks for Stopping By......

Baby Eagles in Decorah, Iowa

2011-04-09T13:09:00.000-05:00

This live web cam of the baby eagles in Decorah, Iowa has captivated the entire country. Excuse the quality of the photos since I took them right from the live site. Click HERE to follow the journey, the little fluff balls are beginning to get a little rambunctious!

Thanks for Stopping By ....

First Blooms....

2011-04-06T19:47:00.001-05:00

My little crocus' are always the first ones to break through every Spring...

Just this little bit of color gives you hope that 'maybe' winter is finally behind us. Fingers are crossed. but I do remember more than one blizzard on Easter! I'll be an optimist and believe there will be no more snow.

It's amazing how delicate these little flowers are...

Luckily, the squirrels didn't make a complete feast out of the tulips I planted last fall. If I can rely on the packaging, they should be all shades of pink once in bloom

Lilies are off to a good start also...

We'll see what happens in the next few weeks, in the meantime Tux will keep the squirrels away from my tulips!!

Thanks for Stopping By .....

Happy St. Patrick's Day ...

2011-03-17T10:01:00.001-05:00

Wishing everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day. Remember, if you don't wear green today you may get pinched... so I know Carol won't be wearing green!!

Sharing some beautiful flowers, wish they were growing in my yard now. The photos were taken by my cousin, Phil Lynch, who takes gorgeous shots.... all with a touch of green

This one is a favorite, so cute....

Thanks For Stopping By ..........

Kathleen’s 3rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Blog Crawl

2011-03-14T23:00:00.023-05:00

Wouldn’t dare miss this annual blog crawl since I have Irish heritage from both my Dad & Mom. More importantly my friend, Kathleen, is so gracious to host this every year. Make sure you stop by Cuisine Kathleen and check out all the links.

When I see this little saying I automatically think of my nieces..YES, that means Jill, Katie, Abby, Jessie, Shelly, Sarah, Amy & Gina.

My favorite St. Patty's drink.. A grasshopper

Now for the treats ...

Chocolate Mint Irish Cream Cheesecake

Adapted from BHG

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups finely crushed chocolate wafers, chocolate graham crackers or chocolate Teddy Grahams*

6 tablespoons butter, melted*

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened room temperature

1 8-ounce carton dairy sour cream

1 cup sugar

1 8-ounce package semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled

3 eggs

1-2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/2 cup Baileys Irish cream Chocolate Mint liqueur

2 tablespoons whipping cream or milk

2 teaspoons vanilla

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. For crust: In a medium bowl, combine crushed chocolate wafers, melted butter, and cinnamon; toss gently to mix. Press mixture onto the bottom and up the side of a 9- or 10-inch springform pan. Set aside.

2. For filling: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and melted chocolate. Beat with an electric mixer on medium to high speed until smooth. Using a wooden spoon, stir in eggs just until combined. Stir in cornstarch, liqueur, whipping cream or milk, and vanilla.

3. Pour filling into the crust-lined pan. Place springform pan in shallow baking pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until center appears nearly set when gently shaken.

4. Cool in springform pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Using a small sharp knife, loosen from side of pan. Cool for 30 minutes more. Remove side of springform pan. Cool for 1 hour. Cover and chill for at least 6 hours or up to 24 hours. Makes 16 servings.

5. *Note: If using a 10-inch springform pan, use 1-3/4 cups crushed chocolate wafers (about 21 cookies) and 7 tablespoons butter, melted, for the crust.

Adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of cornstarch into the mix is also a great idea to help prevent cracking. Cornstarch is also coagulant. That is a substance that causes a liquid to change into a thickened mass. This is why Junior's and many other high-end cheesecake makers use it in their cheesecake recipes.

This was so good and so rich!! It really needs the whipped cream on top or a raspberry sauce would be great also on the side! Have to tell you the truth... the reason I initially put the whipped cream on top was to camaflouge a large 'crack' on the top (I even had it in a water bath). Sending most of this home with my DIL, Carrie, who celebrated her birthday yesterday. The rest I will take to the office since my boss is a dedicated chocoholic.

NEXT…

A very simple and quick dessert

“Lucky You" Mint Pie

Very Best Baking

1 cup (6 oz.) Nestles Semi-Sweet Mini Morsels
1 can (12 fl. oz.) Evaporated Milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 prepared 9-inch (6 oz.) chocolate crumb crust
1 package (3.4 oz.) vanilla instant pudding and pie filling mix
1/3 cup water
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
3 to 4 drops green food coloring
1 container (8 oz.) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
Additional Mini morsels, fresh mint sprigs (optional)
MICROWAVE 1 cup morsels and 1/3 cup evaporated milk in medium, uncovered, microwave-safe bowl on HIGH (100%) power for 45 seconds; stir until smooth. Stir in butter; pour into crust. Refrigerate for 20 minutes or until cool to the touch.
MEANWHILE, BEAT remaining evaporated milk, pudding mix, water, peppermint extract and 3 drops food coloring in medium bowl until combined. Gently stir in 2 cups whipped topping and additional drop of food coloring, if desired. Spoon over chocolate layer.
REFRIGERATE for 2 hours or until set. Sprinkle with additional morsels. Spoon remaining whipped topping in center of pie. Garnish with fresh mint.

Last but not least….

I HAD to try Kathleen’s soda bread. Now keep in mind I never make bread of any kind, except maybe banana bread. Had no idea if I was doing it right, what the consistency was supposed to be, NADA, NOTHING to go on! I left out the raisins since they are not a favorite of mine.

Irish Soda Bread

Kathleen’s Recipe

4 C flour

1 t salt

4 t baking powder

1 t baking soda

3/4 C sugar

2 t caraway seed

1 C raisins

1 egg

1 t vanilla

2 C buttermilk

1/4 stick of soft butter

Sift dry ingredients. Mix in the seeds and raisins. Add buttermilk and vanilla and mix.

Add beaten eggs and soft butter, mix

Put into 2 greased loaf pans, or 1 10 in round. Slit the top with a knife.

Bake at 350 about 30 to 35 for loaf pans, 50 for round.

Brush with butter or milk 10 min before removing from oven.

Check center to see if done, do no over bake..

I made one round loaf on Silpat and one loaf…they may look a little crude but…I was really surprised at the taste. I actually like the caraway flavor. My friend Sue and her hubby just left taking the balance of the round loaf and three pieces of the cheesecake! Sue made the comment her Mom always used to put caraway seeds on pork chops when she was growing up.

As any GOOD Irish family, we have our own Kathleen’s …My Dad’s little sister Kathleen I never met, she died at the age of 14 from a ruptured appendix. This is a school photo taken in 1932…

She’ll probably kill me for this – but our other Kathleen is my niece who goes by ‘Katie’, isn’t she a cutie and a beauty!! She is actually the namesake for the Kathleen above.

Thank you Kathleen for hosting this ‘crawl’, and anxious to check out everyone’s links! I'm also joining in on JanMary's St Patricks Day Carnival - check out all the great links here also!

Thanks For Stopping By…..

Planting Early …….

2011-03-02T20:22:00.003-06:00

My DIL, Carrie, gave me a ‘Herb Kit’ for Christmas. I started the seeds about a month ago and they are sprouting like crazy.

PARSLEY

BASIL

The aromas are coming through loud and clear. I’m especially waiting to use the fresh basil.

I used to be a tad skeptic when I saw these kits… no longer!

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY…..

Introducing….. GIZMO

2011-02-27T22:24:00.004-06:00

(I wrote this post over a month ago and forgot to publish it)

This beautiful little girl was rescued during Thanksgiving at my sister Bev's house. They live in the country and usually end up with a number of cats which ‘well-meaning’ people decide to drop off! So at any time there may be newborn kittens in their shed. All are well fed and have shelter but we had such cold weather so you never know how many will actually survive.

My great nephew Jarret scooped her up and brought her inside the heated garage to begin ~~begging~~ asking if he couldn’t bring her home. Since his Mom has allergies it didn’t look too promising that was going to happen. My niece Katie, who has a heart of gold when it comes to pets, took her home with her.

Gizmo had very little ‘meat’ on her and things got to be touch and go for awhile. Taking her to the Vet, feeding her, keeping her warm finally paid off and she turned the corner. By then, Katie had taken Gizmo to her Mom’s house. (Who is another softie, but won’t admit it) My sister, Laurie, had just fostered two Siamese kittens and had just earlier been adopted.

And…that is where Gizmo is today!! And, where she will be staying! She has an older sister, Nahla, (Siamese) who ignores her. And older ‘brother’, Charlie, a German Shepherd who takes great joy in ‘rounding’ her up. It is so sweet watching Charlie take care of Gizmo.

She’s spoiled..gets to stay up late to watch scary movies…

Surfs the internet when no one is around….

And never has to worry about being hungry or cold again…

BUT, perhaps best of all is she will be able to visit now and again with her real life HERO..Jarret!

By bringing Gizmo into the garage that Thanksgiving night, Jarret literally saved her life! If she would have been left on the farm, none of us think she would have survived this harsh winter.

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY……

Foodie & Flashback Friday

2011-02-25T21:00:00.003-06:00

Stop by “Foodie Friday” for links to some great recipes and also to wish Michael a wonderful 2 year Anniversary in hosting Foodie Friday.

Also stop by Suzy’s blog Kitchen Bouquet for more links to great posts.

It’s been almost two years since I did this post, and it is still one of my favorite “go-to” meals to prepare.

Slow-Baked Pork Chop

Hasselback Potato

Roasted Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce

Susan from Savoring Time in the Kitchen had posted about the potatoes, and I have made them many, many times since then! It’s fun using different combinations of herbs and seasonings to compliment whatever you are serving…pork, beef, chicken.

The chops I just dredge in flour, brown in a little amount of olive oil and place in a 2 qt covered casserole dish that has about 1/3 cup water and a few shots of worcestershire sauce. Top with sliced onions and bake at 300-325 until done to your own taste.

Thanks For Stopping By ….

WINTER Is Backkkkkkk

2011-02-20T19:20:00.003-06:00

The great heat wave of this past week, if 45 is a heat wave, has been replaced with an ice storm! Starting with thunder and lightening early this morning, we were rudely brought back to reality that winter is NOT over!!

Ice is definitely not my friend after a broken wrist just before Thanksgiving. Think I will getting out my re-moveable cast to use in the morning.

Good day to stay in – and bake my favorite oatmeal cookies….

This is the recipe my Mom always made for us growing up

1 1/2 C Crisco
1 Cup white sugar
2 Cups brown sugar
1/2 Cup water
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla

Combine these six ingredients and mix well

3 1/2 Cups flour
2 tsp salt
1 tsp soda

Mix the dry ingredients in with the wet, mix well

Fold in 2 Cups of old-fashioned oatmeal – Quaker Oats

Drop by tsp on ungreased cookie sheet – Bake at 350 for 12-15 minutes depending on oven. I would check after 9 – 10 minutes to be safe! (that is for Carol's benefit)

Mom would bake half the batter as is then add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter and bake the rest. With 10 kids she had to try and appease everyone!

The perfect thin, chewy cookie…..

Thanks For Stopping By ….

My 2nd Blogoversary

2011-02-17T00:05:00.003-06:00

At times I can't believe that it has been two years since I started this 'journey'. I remember being 'railroaded' by some very sweet friends to join them in the BLOG WORLD, and I am so glad I listened to them! I've met so many wonderful women, each unique in their own way and have learned so much from them. It is amazing how gracious they are in sharing their expertise from cooking to photography to gardening.

So, to all you fantastic blogging friends, Thank you for making my time here so enjoyable. I love it when you take the time to comment, you'll never know how very special that is to me, and I look forward to the next year.

Today is also the 8th birthday of my little guy, Bailey! He is gracing my header for a little while, since he is so special.

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY ,,,,

First Wordless Wednesday...

2011-02-16T07:34:00.001-06:00

Check out other Wordless Wednesdays HERE

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

2011-02-14T20:18:00.001-06:00

Made a few goodies to share with my friends

Marshmallow filled cupcakes and peanut butter blossoms with Dove chocolate hearts… these didn’t last long at all once my oldest saw them!

Honey-of-a-Meal Chicken

2011-02-06T19:05:00.003-06:00

“I’m Tardy for the Party”….Ohno, Ohno

Joining Suzy at Kitchen Bouquet for her Great Magazine Challenge. Stop by her blog to check all the other links to participants.

I just received my February/March Taste of Home this past week and there were quite a few recipes I want to try. For this one, I just happened to have everything I needed. As usual I changed it a little to suit my time and ease. (Carol is rubbing off on me, God help us all)

The recipe actually calls for making this in a pressure cooker, but I used the oven instead, baking at 325 for about an hour. That and using honey mustard, I followed everything else to a tee! Well, almost… I used chicken tenders instead of bone-in chicken breasts. THEN, the rest was the same!

Chicken turned out very tender – and loved the sauce that was left in the pan to spoon over the chicken. Along with sides of oven-roasted baby Yukons and asparagus completed the meal perfectly. I thought the honey would overwhelm the dish, but it didn’t in the least. Will make this one again.

My youngest, Nick, had his 30th birthday last week and I couldn’t find mascarpone cheese any where to make his favorite cupcakes. Finally found some yesterday so I made them today for him. These are his favorites so I try to make them up for him. One of the gals he works with 'asked’ him before his birthday if his Mom was going to make those cupcakes! He takes some to her since she loves them also. They are Strawberry and Mascarpone Filled Cupcakes by Giada De Laurentiis.

Took a few minutes to dip some strawberries also…for once the grocery has some decent berries for this time of year…

Make sure you stop by Suzy’s blog.

Thanks for Stopping By……

SUPERWOMAN

2011-02-02T08:34:00.000-06:00

My sister Sue's grandaughter took 1st place in double mini and trampoline at a competition in Minneapolis this past weekend. This photo is one of her doing her trampoline routine, which her Dad dubbed her "Superwoman Mack". Mackensie's talent must have skipped a few generations!! Guess I do have to admit that her Mom, Shelly and Aunt Amy were pretty spectacular in softball. And I was fantastic at watching sports!

Difficult to Resist.....

2011-02-01T21:54:00.000-06:00

I spend way too much time reading so many blogs, wish I could find someone to pay me to do it!

Most of you know what I mean when you see a recipe that just makes you sit up straight and pay attention. That happens quite often when I read Mary’s blog One Perfect Bite.

I’ve been a follower of Mary for quite a long time, not only for her recipes but for her stories and interesting facts. It just dawned on me…I’m not ‘wasting’ time visiting all these blogs..it’s educational! Feeling so much better now.

Anyway, when I read Mary’s post about her Frozen Key Lime and White Chocolate Pie, I knew I would have to make it. It is EVERYTHING you would hope it to be… bursting with that key lime flavor and the creamy white chocolate topping. This is one dessert I will be making over and over anytime of the year.

Frozen Key Lime and White Chocolate Pie...from the kitchen of One Perfect Bite

Ingredients:

1 graham cracker pie crust

Filling

1 (14-oz.) can sweetened condensed milk

6 ounces whipped topping

Zest of 2 limes

1/2 cup bottled key lime juice

Lime slices for garnish

Topping

4 ounces white chocolate

1-1/4 cup chilled whipping cream, divided use

Directions:

1) To make filling: Mix condensed milk with whipped topping and beat until well-blended. Add lime zest and juice and blend well. Pour into crust and freeze.

2) To make topping: Combine white chocolate and 1/4 cup cream in a small bowl. Set over simmering water and stir until chocolate melts and is smooth. Remove bowl and allow chocolate to cool to body temperature. Beat reserved 1 cup cream until soft peaks form. Fold in chocolate mixture. Spread over top of lime filling. Return pie to freezer. Freeze for 8 hours.

3) To serve: About 1 hour before serving, remove pie from freezer and cut into serving slices. Place pie in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Garnish with lime slices if desired. Yield: 8 servings.

Mary’s pie looked much more refined than mine, but the taste I know had to be spot on. Visit Mary’s post to have a ‘loving’ look at hers.

Thanks Mary – you’ve made quite a few of my friends very happy!

Thanks For Stopping By…..

Quiche Anyone????

2011-01-02T19:11:00.014-06:00

Maybe this will be the year I TRY to eat a little bit healthier and wiser. Hey, it may last an entire month, we'll have to wait and see.

I ran across this recipe from Cathy (Wives with Knives) which she posted a year ago. It evidently peaked my interest since I copied and pasted it into my file. It goes without saying mine does not look as good as Cathy's, but I would bet it tasted just as good!!

Canadian Bacon, Asparagus and Green Chile Quiche
Adapted from Wives with Knives

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 small onion, diced

4 large mushrooms chopped

1 cup diced Canadian bacon

1 small can diced green chiles

7 or more spears of asparagus chopped however you like

3/4 cup grated cheese (I used Colby and Monterey Jack )

5 eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup whipping cream (I didn't have 1/2 &1/2)

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 9-inch pie shell, either homemade or purchased (Guess which one I used)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet and saute the onion and mushrooms until tender.

Combine the Canadian bacon, green chiles asparagus and grated cheese.

Add sauteed onion and mushrooms.

Mix the beaten eggs and whipping cream. Add salt and pepper and the bacon mixture. Combine well and pour into the pie shell. Bake 30-40 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center of the quiche comes out clean. Let cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Cathy had made the comment you could add whatever you like, so I took it at face value! I added more liquid due to the addition of the asparagus. It was so moist, the asparagus was perfectly tender not mushy.

Look at all the chunks of ham and asparagus ...

There was more filling than I needed, so I filled two ramekins for the fridge. Plan on having one of them for lunch tomorrow...

So happy it turned out so well, this will definitely be a favorite now. It will be fun to experiment with different veggies and ingredients now that I have this spectacular base as a starter.

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY ...

Happy New Year

2011-01-02T12:21:00.001-06:00

Wishing a very Happy New Year to all

and especially to my most favorite Blogs!!

(Thanks Marsha)

Christmas Treats....

2010-12-23T20:37:00.001-06:00

This year I decided to make Christmas goodies I have never made before! Also found out it IS possible to roll cookie dough into 1” balls with a broken wrist! It took some time but I made it through. My presentations are a little bit to be desired but I did the best I could considering I felt like a one-armed bandit.

Click on the photos to enlarge if you'd like...

These little Peppermint Meltaways were a nice surprise, they are an Award Recipe from Taste of Home. I topped part of them with crushed peppermint candies and the other half with crushed Andes mints..you can tell my little processor went a tad overboard (not my fault) but the taste was loud and clear even if the presentation wasn’t as pretty as could be.

Martha Stewart's Surprise Cookies turned out great..rich and chocolaty with the fun marshmallow surprise! I flattened my marshmallow a little too much when they came out of the oven. Live and learn. Not as great as Mallomars but the taste will not disappoint..

Came across a great blog..Culinary in the Desert, which has outstanding recipes. I tried the Almond Roca, which is everything it is made out to be. So VERY addicting it should be a crime! I used dark chocolate, so much better than milk chocolate in this case. Gave me a chance to highlight by gorgeous PK plate I received last year from a sweet blogger friend, Cynthia

Something simple that I know everyone will like..a pretzel base, topped with a rolo..bake at 250 for 4 minutes, then top with cashews. I also topped some with pecans. The toughest part of this is unwrapping all the rolos... one of my sweet dear friends pointed out to me that it was good physical therapy for my wrist!

Now to decide what to make that Santa would like tomorrow night!!!

Thanks for Stopping By.....

Christmas decorations...

2010-12-20T20:08:00.000-06:00

My sis, Laurie, came over a week ago to put up some decorations for me. Still a little clumsy with my wrist and came down with terrible flu like symptoms so didn't feel like doing much decorating. But Laurie came to the rescue - she loves doing it, and I really appreciated everything she did. A few little snipets, kept the living room mainly silver and the dining room the bronzes....

I love my 'sugar garland'

Even the ducks were gussied up...

A sweet gift from one of my fellow bloogers, Marsha from Marsha's Garden, deserved a place of distinction... just love the little snowmen

Angels were my Mom's favorite...

A little more later with a few of the goodies I was able to make.

Thanks for stopping by.....

Thanksgiving Over..On to Xmas!

2010-11-28T20:59:00.000-06:00

Joining Mosaic Monday after a long hiatus! Snippets of a very long day - group of 31 enjoyed all the food, our annual Thanksgiving craft and playing games.

My posts may be a little few and far between the next six weeks..Monday before Thanksgiving we had a freezing rain and I took a little tumble on my driveway and broke my wrist!

Should have landed on my butt and nothing would have been broken.... but I will be visiting all my favs and will try and comment, may be short and sweet but I know you will understand!

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY......

Chicken Oscar

2010-11-14T10:03:00.001-06:00

Possibly my favorite meal other than a Fillet Mignon from Forbes Locker in Spirit Lake. I don't make this often and for the life of me I don't know why! It's so easy to put together and so well worth the effort.

You start off with two toasted English Muffins, topped with a chicken breast, top that with some roasted asparagus spears, top that with some creamy Hollandaise and crown off the entire creation with some tender crab meat. You're drooling aren't you???

I only had some chicken tenders on hand so I coated them in an Italian style Panko crumbs and slowly pan fried them. You can use a nice piece of steak also if some in your family prefers that over chicken. Fix a nice small salad as a side, a dish of tart raspberry jello with raspberries topped with a dollop of whipped cream and you have a meal that would please anyone. (Sorry about no pics of the salad and dessert but they were consumed before I realized I hadn't taken photos) Even decided to make the meal a little more special by using some of the dishes I had stored away...time to bring out more of the dishes I have and start to use them for everyday.

NOW, what to do with the leftover Hollandaise ???? Sounds like I just may be having Eggs Benedict with a refreshing Mimosa soon!

Even though we're having Thanksgiving at my sisters house I put together my own little fall centerpiece for my dining room table... love the candleholders with their own little "snuffer" attached. (Yes, I know I should have burned the candle before the photo..just forgot)

Want to wish my beautiful great niece Mackensie a very Happy 13th Birthday tomorrow!!

Thanks for Stopping By.....

Cold Snowy Morning - Time to Bake

2010-11-13T20:50:00.000-06:00

Woke up this morning to about 3 inches of cold, wet and very heavy snow! Was rather hoping we wouldn't get snow until around February! (Wishful thinking) It did give up a beautiful hoar frost - but did create havoc on many of the tree limbs...

Went through some recipes I had been wanting to try for the upcoming holidays to see if they would be something the family would like and came across one of Giada's...

Mini Chocolate-Meringue Cupcakes

The recipe is a little odd - check it out yourself HERE - it looks a bit confusing but came together rather quickly. The cinnamon gives the chocolate a unique flavor that I really liked, and folding in the meringue made them very light and moist. If you read the reviews many were disappointed that the cupcakes "fall" after you bring them out of the oven. Mine also fell, but I didn't think it mattered that much. The key is to fill the mini liners to the TOP! They form just a little bit of a crust which gives you a special surprise when you bite into it. By drizzling the frosting gives you just the right amount of sweetness, no need to pile a large glob of frosting on them. These are a keeper and will make them again, but I will get the 'official' taste test tomorrow when my friend Sue stops by to grab some for her and her hubby to taste. I have a strange feeling they will pass with flying colors....

Someone was standing by so sweetly as I was baking that I had to snap a photo before I yelled at Tux to get down off the chair...

Thanks for stopping by.....

Creamy Lasagna

2010-11-08T21:45:00.000-06:00

Ran across this recipe from Taste of Home, since I have never found a Lasagna recipe I really thought was great, it deserved a try at least.

Now granted, it doesn't look the best, BUT the flavor was quite good. ( I think I should have taken it out about 5-10 minutes earlier) Still not "THE ONE" I'm looking for however! Which I was lucky enough to have enjoyed over thirty years ago in Paderno del Grappa, a small town in northern Italy. If only I would have been smart enough at that time to ask for the recipe! This recipe doesn't call for the cottage cheese you see in every Lasagna recipe - which is why it is labeled a creamy lasagna. After reading some of the reviews, I only use half of the sour cream listed.

The meat sauce was really good - I added some Italian Seasoning and also cooked the onion with the ground beef to get the sweetness of them. Instead of using the standard lasagna noodles I always use I tried these instead....

These will be my lasagna noodles from now on..they are the perfect size, does not require the 'boiling' method as with the regular version, and they tasted just as good if not better! And I am all for the ease of trying a new product... at least new to me!

The recipe, which you can find HERE.. makes two 8x8 pans. The other is now in the freezer to use another time, which by then I will have remembered to at least have some garlic bread on hand!

*************************************

HAVE to share with you all a birthday gift that arrived today from one of my silly sweet and savory friends!! Since she couldn't or wouldn't send me the gift she said she would (evidently it was too hard to wrap) this was a consolation!! Everyone needs a calendar for the new year....

I'm really looking forward to May of next year.....

Thanks for Stopping By ....

HAPPY HALLOWEEN - Rocky Horror Style

2010-10-31T11:40:00.003-05:00

Costume Party 2010

My sister and hubby went to a Halloween Party last night. I was asked to take the photos as they were getting ready for the party..

The Cast:

My Sister Laurie - Magenta

BIL John - Riff Raff

Their friends:

Don - Dr. Frank N Furter

Treizana - Columbia

My BIL's brother Chris - Time Warp Dancer

Their daughter, Katie was going to another party and went as a gangster

You can tell that Don is definitely a man comfortable is his own skin..

Don and his fiance Treizana..

Some other shots...

Haven't talked to them this morning yet - hoping they were able to get all the fake eyelashes off! Also to see if they won best dressed...I thought they turned out great!

Bailey decided to go to a party as "Dead Puppy"

Dressed up some of my pumpkins and gourds ...

Last but not least,

HAPPY 39th ANNIVERSARY

SUE & DARRELL

(sister & BIL)

Thanks for Stopping By....

**UPDATE: Would you believe they were beat out by a "Washer and Dryer" , Don said he thought he made some of the male judges a little uncomfortable !!

CHOCOLATE "WHOPPER" MALTED CUPCAKES WITH WHIPPED FROSTING

2010-10-24T11:56:00.000-05:00

If you're a fan of Chocolate "Whopper" Malt Balls this is a treat for you!

I've been eyeing this recipe for a few months so went to the grocery to get the items I didn't have on hand and gave it a shot! To eat this cupcake, in my opinion, it is mandatory you have it with a glass of milk!! The chocolaty flavor is so intense in the cupcake it is for the REAL Chocolate Connoisseur. Complimenting the deep flavor is the light, creamy Chocolate Malted Whipped Frosting topped with crushed malted milk balls. Now, what part of that description didn't make your taste buds dance just a little??

Chocolate Malted Cupcakes

· 1 2/3 cup all-purpose flour

· 2 tsp baking powder

· 1 tsp salt

· 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

· ¾ cup malted milk powder

· ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature

· 1 ½ cups sugar

· 2 eggs

· 1 ½ cups whole milk

· 1 tsp vanilla extra

Preheat oven to 325F

Mix flour, baking powder, salt, malt powder, and cocoa together and set aside.

Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Alternately add flour mixture and milk. Add vanilla a beat well.

Spoon batter into cupcake papers, filling cups about 2/3 full. Bake for 25(15 minutes for mini) minutes or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool.

Chocolate Malted Milk Whipped Cream Frosting

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 cup powdered sugar

4 TBSP malted milk powder

2 TBSP unsweetened cocoa powder

In a large bowl, whip the cream until it forms soft peaks. Add sugar, malt powder, and cocoa powder. Beat until stiff.

Frost cooled cupcakes with whipped cream frosting. Top with crushed Whopper (malted milk balls) pieces.

I made most of them in a mini size but did manage to make a half dozen in the "big-boy" size for my friend Sue's hubby and crew who are finishing up in the fields this week. All the crops are in and now plowing up the ground for the winter. I figured a dainty mini was not going to impress them very much!

So, if you have a sudden urge for some deep chocolate flavor give these a try...will not be disappointed!

As a follow-up, you can see Louie fur has all grown back after his "summer haircut" I posted about HERE... Between him and Tux they are my guard cats during the day. Looks like Louis is trying to see what is in the jar, and if it is edible!

Thanks for stopping by.....

Pumpkin Cupcake with White Chocolate Cardamom Buttercream

2010-10-21T23:29:00.001-05:00

One more fall cupcake I have tried is the Pumpkin Cupcake with White Chocolate Cardamom Buttercream frosting. Actually I got the idea from an episode of "CUPCAKE WARS" on the Food Network! It sounded so good, and received good reviews from the judges.

HOWEVER, though the cupcake was super moist, it was lacking in the pumpkin flavor. I should have added some pumpkin pie spice or something. It just didn't have the "WOW" factor at all, in my opinion.

I used this Taste of Home Recipe. For the Buttercream - I googled and came up this recipe:

White Chocolate Cardamom Buttercream

2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, room temperature

8 ounces white chocolate, chopped

1-2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon cardamom

1. In a heat proof bowl over a pan of simmering water, gently melt the white chocolate. Allow to cool for 2 minutes or so.

2. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter at medium speed until creamy.

2. Beat in the melted white chocolate.

3. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar, vanilla, and cardamom and beat at low speed, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl, until light and fluffy. Add more powdered sugar to arrive at the consistency and sweetness you like.

I could not get the "buttercream" consistency I am used to... the flavor was OK but not a recipe I would make again. Back to the drawing board on this one, I will have to look for another recipe since I did love the taste of the white chocolate and cardamom.

Trying my hand at carving pumpkins after seeing Debbie's (Mountain Breaths) Moms' collection of carved pumpkin. Check out her display - UNBELIEVABLE!! I evidently do NOT have her patience since I was breaking and bending those cute little orange 'saws' from Michael's. Doing the best I possibly could I will attempt to do some more next year. I plan on marking the year on the bottom of the pumpkin to see how I progress. I'll take another photo once I have them lit up for Halloween..maybe they will look better ! :)

a cute little candle holder I picked up at Michael's also....

Sorry I don't have a better review for you but I don't want you to be disappointed if you do decide to make them. Just remember, as we all know by now, everyone's tastebuds are completely different so it's possible some of you will absolutely love it. JUST .................

Thanks for Stopping By.....

Best Apple Crisp...

2010-10-11T21:06:00.001-05:00

Just a quick break from my fall cupcakes.. with all the apples, I needed to make THE BEST APPLE CRISP recipe from all time. The recipe is from none other than... BETTY CROCKER!!!

I really don't think you can beat this recipe, and of course make sure you double the topping. You can find the recipe HERE.. I used Honey Crisp apples this time - usually I use the Granny Smith since I like a little tartness. The Honey Crisp apples turned out very nice, it would really be a toss up as to which one I think is better.

A few photos of some of the last of my fall flowers...

Last but certainly not least...

Happy 2nd Anniversary Nick & Carrie

(my baby boy)

Thanks for Stopping By.....

Snickerdoodle Cupcake

2010-10-03T12:54:00.000-05:00

The next installment of a "fall" flavored cupcake is the Snickerdoodle Cupcake with Cinnamon frosting.

There were mixed reviews on this recipe. Personally, I liked the cinnamon flavor. It was subtle and not over-powering. The cinnamon frosting was delicious. Some that did not care for a cinnamon taste said it was good but wouldn't want alot of them. In the end, as with anything, it is all about personal taste.

One step which I forgot before baking was to sprinkle a little mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top of the cupcake before you put them in the oven. This supposedly will put a little 'crust' on top. I halved both the cupcake and frosting recipe and it came out perfect..they made approximately 4 dozen mini-cupcakes.

Make up a batch and come to your own conclusion...

Snickerdoodle Cupcakes

Source: Martha Stewart Cupcakes

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups cake flour (not self- rising), sifted

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, plus 1/2 teaspoon for dusting

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

1 3/4 cups sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for dusting

4 large eggs, room temperature

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 1/4 cups milk

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line standard muffin tins with paper liners. Sift together both flours, baking powder, salt, and 1 tablespoon cinnamon.

2. With an electric mixer on medium-high speed, cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until each is incorporated, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. Beat in vanilla. Reduce speed to low. Add flour mixture in three batches, alternating with two additions of milk, and beating until combined after each.

3. Divide batter evenly among lined cups, filling each three-quarters full. Bake, rotating tins halfway through, until a cake tester inserted in centers comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Transfer tins to wire racks to cool completely before removing cupcakes. Cupcakes can be stored up to 2 days at room temperature, or frozen up to 2 months, in airtight containers.

Cinnamon Frosting

Adapted from Cook’s Illustrated April 2007

20 tablespoons (2½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened

2½ cups Confectioners’ sugar (10 ounces)

1/8 tablespoons table salt

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 tablespoons heavy cream

2 tablespoons cinnamon (or to taste)

In standing mixer fitted with whisk attachment, beat butter at medium-high speed until smooth, about 20 seconds. Add confectioners’ sugar and salt; beat at medium-low speed until most of the sugar is moistened, about 45 seconds. Scrape down bowl and beat at medium speed until mixture is fully combined, about 15 seconds; scrape bowl, add vanilla, cinnamon, and heavy cream, and beat at medium speed until incorporated, about 10 seconds, then increase speed to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes, scraping down bowl once or twice.

What will be next ?????

French Toast Cupcake with Maple Buttercream

2010-09-19T00:57:00.000-05:00

Been searching the Internet for some "fall" flavored cupcakes this past week. I'm helping out with a political fundraiser next Saturday and will be making some "mini" cupcakes in different flavors.

The first one I tried is this French Toast Cupcake with Maple Buttercream Frosting....and it is a keeper! I didn't mark down the site I found the cupcake recipe, but if I run across it again I will come back and give credit. The Maple Buttercream I found at CDKitchens HERE. I halved the frosting measurements since I had made the mini cupcakes and it was the perfect amount..no leftover!

These are perfect in a "mini" cake since sometimes having a whole big cupcake can be very filling after a meal. This way you can sample more than one flavor and not feel so guilty!

French Toast Cupcake

· 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

· 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

· 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

· 1/4 tsp. salt

· 1 cup sugar

· 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted then cooled.

· 2 eggs

· 1 tsp. maple extract

· 1/2 cup whole milk ( I used Soy Milk since that is all I have on hand)

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin tin with baking liners.

Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl.

In a large bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, and eggs until combined. Then add maple extract.

Alternate between whisking in flour mixture and milk into your liquid mixture. Make three additions of flour and two of milk. Beat until smooth.

Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 20-25 (15-18 minutes for mini) minutes until golden brown and tops spring back when lightly touched.

Cool cupcakes for 10 minutes, remove from pan and allow to cool completely before frosting

Stay Tuned for the next flavor....

Ina's Baked Shrimp Scampi

2010-08-22T12:34:00.001-05:00

Remembering I still had some shrimp frozen bought from the Fabian Seafood truck I scoured the recipe file for something special. Popping out, of course, a recipe from the Barefoot Contessa!

Peeled, deveined and cutting the three chef's cut so the tails wouldn't curl was the 1st step..

Marinating the shrimp with the oil and wine ( A little extra wine) and placing them in a casserole..

Baked as directed, then placed under the broiler (I had a "Carol" moment and kept in under a tad too long) but still tasted great!

So scrumptious and flavorful... in some of the reviews a few made the comment they didn't think it had much flavor! All I can say is those individuals either made it wrong or had NO taste buds!

Ina never steers you wrong - you can get the recipe HERE...

Also had some strawberries I needed to use up..even though I love my standard Easy Strawberry Pie, I wanted to try a different one. Again, checking out my recipes saw this one with Cool Whip! Using sugar free jello, lite cool whip and a reduce-fat graham pie crust, this pie does not make you feel you are missing any flavor at all! Delicious and not any guilt whatsoever is cutting a nice big slice!

You can find this great recipe for Strawberry Pie HERE...

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY....

Apologies for being Absent....

2010-08-16T21:59:00.001-05:00

I have been pretty much out of touch since the end of July and apologize to all for not visiting my "favorite blogs" recently.

(The photo was taken a couple of days after it happened..he looked so sad and confused)

My 4-legged best friend, Bailey, suffered a stroke the end of July. Being only 7 1/2 it was quite a shock! The stroke affected his right side. At the Vets they also tested him for diseases that could have possibly contributed to the stroke. They took a blood test and found a positive reading for one with a long name ending is 'osis' and caused from a tick. I need to have the Vet spell out the name for me! That's when they found he had a high temp resulting from an infection. I have been playing nursemaid and trying to come up with creative ways to give him 2 pills in the morning and 2 more at night. He is still running a fever from the infection.

Until today his temp had been at 103, today it had dropped a little. Bailey is on doxycycline and starting his 3rd week. He needs to continue on it until the end of August. After the first of the year they want to do another series of blood tests on him to be sure there are no further signs of the disease.

Luckily he is improving, not as fast as I would like but there are parts of the day he acts like nothing was ever wrong..love those days!!

Thank you for being understanding and I have started to visit some of my fav blogs..it will just take a little time!!!

Ice Cream Social....

2010-07-16T23:57:00.000-05:00

It’s time again for Suzy’s Annual Ice Cream Social. Last year I couldn’t believe all the creativity the participants put forth in making this a fun event. It also gave me the final nudge to break down and buy my own Cuisinart Ice Cream, Yogurt and Sorbet Maker…..

I spent an hour on the Internet going over all the recipes that are out there, making only a very small dent! Since I was a first-timer I wanted to find an extremely EASY one to start with… the KEY LIME FROZEN YOGURT with only three ingredients fit that bill to a tee! I used the Fage – 0% non-fat Greek strained yogurt, which I believe is the reason for such a creamy, silky texture. If you use regular yogurt you may want to strain it first before using. I also used two small drops of green food coloring for just a touch of color. The result… simply amazing! I actually strained my arm from patting myself on the back!! Seriously, the taste and texture was spot on. This is a tart yogurt so you may want to sprinkle graham cracker crumbs on top for a contrast, though personally I loved the tangy lime flavor. The perfect end to a big meal when you just want something simple to cleanse your palate.

The second creation really caught my eye…. Cappuccino-Toffee Crunch Ice Cream, from the Williams-Sonoma Kitchen Library Series. Any type of mocha cappuccino, iced coffees are always a hit with me, which is why this recipe started singing my name. I used Scharffen Berger 70% Cacao bittersweet dark chocolate to get the intense chocolate flavor. The recipe does not specifically tell you how to make the nut crunch, so I just used a combination of chocolate toffee pieces with slivered almonds. One suggestion was to use crushed up Almond Rocca. There is Kahlua and Rum in this recipe so kids may not like or should NOT like the taste! Personally, I love Kahlua so this tasted heavenly to me... go figure!

Add a few toffee bits....

My last ice cream creation was made with store bought ice cream and convinced me never to purchase a DQ Ice Cream cake again at their high prices! This was very easy to make and the result was sinfully delicious. The only thing I would change would be to add another layer of Oreo cookie crumble in the middle. I made this last week when my nieces were visiting from Dallas. Resembling a Butterfinger Blizzard Cake, it is a recipe which could be adapted to any flavor you prefer. You can find the recipe HERE

Thank you Suzy for a virtual fun time and I’m looking forward to checking out all the participants ice cream sensations. Make sure you all check out Suzy’s blog at Kitchen Bouquet to link up to some fantastic ice cream creations and presentations!

Thanks For Stopping By…

My Great Nephew Joshua ... aka 'Turtle'

2010-07-12T00:19:00.001-05:00

Today we finally were able to hold the 'newest' addition to the family, Joshua. My niece Jessie, her husband Matt, Josh and my other niece Abby were visiting from Dallas. Josh will be a year old next month, so seeing him was a long time coming!

When he was born, Jessie told me he lifted his head up straight and looked around with his little tongue sticking out just a little...just like a little turtle.

He is such a sweet, happy and beautiful little boy!

The day was spent around new faces and new places to check out.... his Dad took him for a ride around my sister and BIL's acreage on one of the JD tractors

He is so anxious to stand and will probably be walking before his first birthday. His Great Aunt Julie decided to give him the chance of standing up by himself with the help of a 20 gallon crock...

Josh got lots of hugs and kisses from everyone... sticking out that little tongue again

Auntie Bev took off his shoes and started tickling his feet

Great day - he never fussed ONCE

Toward the end of the day all he wanted was his Mommy...

So we said Good-Night and will hopefully see him tomorrow

Joining Mary at Little Red House for Mosaic Monday. Check out her blog for some wonderful mosaics!

Thanks for Stopping By....

Louis Gets A Haircut ...

2010-07-08T19:02:00.001-05:00

Every summer for the last 5 or so years Louis gets his summer "do". His hair gets so matted that the only way to help it out is to take him to the Vet to be shaved. They put him "out", which means he couldn't have anything to eat after 6 PM the night before. The next morning I listened to about 2 hours of "wailing" since he wanted breakfast!

At first I didn't know how he would adapt to it, but after the first time we had it done, Louis pranced around like he was saying "Look at me" !! A friend of mine asked me recently HOW I knew he loved the haircut. You see, she is not a real animal lover so is unaware that our 4-legged furry babies actually do talk to us!! So, my dear friend, Louis himself TOLD me he loved it!!

BEFORE....

Tux looks a little worried that maybe HE was going to get a cut also!

AFTER...

These are photos from past years..

My sis, Molly, calls this his "Nancy Sinatra" boots...

This year was a "Lion Cut" - Louie didn't like this cut as well - he likes having all the hair shaved off his chest.

His hair grows back fairly fast - so by the end of summer it won't be so distinct. But for now, Louie is happy, I am happy I don't have clumps of hair in my hand when I pet him!! Plus, I don't have much to brush anymore..for at least a while!!

Thanks for stopping by....

July 4th Weekend

2010-07-05T10:41:00.000-05:00

Busy, busy weekend so I have today to completely veg out without having anything to do or anywhere I have to be! Definitely need more days like this to enjoy.

Joining Mary at the Little Red House for Mosaic Monday...Check out the link for some great photo collages!

A friend of mine planted all the flowers at the Arnolds Park Amusement Park this year, so I checked it out Friday evening. Paula and Julie did a wonderful job... only a small sampling of what they planted.

Cute bench at the Amusement Park - perfect place for vacation photos...

Saturday night went to a BBQ at my son and DIL's house...then off to the fireworks display on Big Spirit Lake. They also had a fireworks display in Arnolds Park on Sunday night. Was able to get some funky looking photos of the fireworks as they were evaporating over the Lake...

Hope you all had a enjoyable, safe Holiday weekend!

Light Lunch - Tuna Salad

2010-06-27T08:00:00.004-05:00

My Mom would always have a bowl of this made up in the summer for a quick light lunch. There is really no specific recipe or measurements - it's all to your individual taste.

Cook whatever type of pasta you like such as elbow macaroni, shells, penne etc. Drain and add any 'extras' you like, I chop up celery and radishes in small chunks. Add thawed frozen peas or if you're lucky to have your own fresh peas and a large can of drained tuna. ( I use water packed). Mix together a dressing of mayo, milk, vinegar and a pinch of sugar (I use Splenda) to suit your own taste whether it be tangy or a little sweet. Pour over the mixture of pasta and extras, mix together well. This time I added some chopped cashews, or use any nut you would like. The nuts can be mixed in at the same time or you can top your salad with them as you plate it. By mixing them in, you lose a little of the crunch...again all to your taste. Refrigerate until ready to use. To serve, place a serving of the salad on a bed of lettuce with crackers of your choice. Lately I've been buying the Wheat Thins 'flatbread' crackers, they are delicious and come in a few different flavors.

I love having this in the fridge when I run home at lunch time and want something light, fast and easy. It would stay fresh in the fridge for at least a week - but it never lasts that long! Enjoy and remember to just add your own favorite 'extras' .... olives, carrots, red onion are others I have used. You could also trade out the tuna for some cubed cooked chicken if desired.... something I haven't tried but sounds interesting!

Thanks for stopping by ...

Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

2010-06-25T23:03:00.001-05:00

Along with many others, I have been trying for a long time to find a teriyaki sauce that I REALLY liked! There is a restaurant in town, Mother Natures, that has the best Teriyaki Wings, Teriyaki Burger etc. In the past I have tried to duplicate the taste and have not had much luck.... UNTIL NOW!

Ran across a recipe for Baked Teriyaki Chicken at allrecipes.com that I think is spot on. After reading the reviews I made some changes to the original recipe, but not many. Doubling the sauce ingredients I used 1/2 Cup Brown sugar and 1/4 Cup of white sugar as someone suggested. Also baked it at 375 degrees, the first 30 minutes foil covered and the last 30 minutes uncovered.

The sauce was perfect with just the right amount of "tang" ! I could see marinating the chicken overnight in this so the flavors would meld together even more. I used the boneless, skinless thighs since I had them on hand, but skinless breasts or tenders would be just as good. Planning on making the sauce again to refrigerate and use it to baste hamburgers on the grill!! If you love the taste of teriyaki you could put this on any meat, poultry or fish... YES, it's that good!

Finished up the meal with some roasted potatoes and sweet corn from Georgia (of all places). In Iowa we won't get the peak sweet corn until the end of July, so until then the ears from Georgia were very good.

NOW, I can stop looking for a Teriyaki Sauce

Thanks for stopping by...

Happy Father's Day...

2010-06-20T00:09:00.001-05:00

My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me. Quote by: Jim Valva

Miss you Dad....

Goodbye My Friend....

2010-06-19T00:06:00.001-05:00

Last night a very special man in my life passed away after a very short diagnosis of cancer. His wife, Marge, had emailed last week to let me know of the prognosis and that Richard was scheduled for some more tests the beginning of the week. I immediately thought to myself to call him to let him know that I was praying for him and loved him dearly. But, as usual, I put it off thinking I had time and I would wait for the weekend. Then I received an email this morning (Fri) to say he had passed away in his sleep. He was able to leave this world with Marge's arms wrapped around him, just the way he wanted to go.

I, along with a very selected few, was taken under his wing early on in my assessment career. He was the City Assessor of Richmond, VA and later the President of the International Association of Assessing Officers. At times I wanted to wring his neck - but he'd give me that $^&* Ass grin of his and tell me I could do it! He gave me the confidence in myself that I could accomplish just about anything I set my mind to. Between Richard and my Dad, they both had more faith in me than I had in myself. Another one of the "selected few", Barbara Brunner, passed away in 2002 of cancer also. We teased Richard that he had a harem of Barbara's, but I was number ONE since I was Barbara A and the other was Barbara B.

He will always be in my thoughts and heart

GOODBYE MY FRIEND .....

Olivia's Baby...

2010-06-13T12:36:00.000-05:00

Many of you know my good friend Sue and her hubby Dave raise alpacas. I have always had my favorite and her name is Olivia...

There is another photo of her on my sidebar. Well, my little Olivia became a Mommy for the first time on June 9th! She had a little girl and so far does not have a name. Sue & Dave started naming their alpacas after all their grandchildren, and here is a photo of the namesake for my fav alpaca...

Isn't Olivia a doll.....

Olivia and her baby girl

I stopped out to see her yesterday - it was so funny watching her run around the penned area. At one time she started off fast and slipped on the wet grass and fell spread-eagled , but jumped up right away and shook it off!

I'm joining Mary at the Little Red House for Mosaic Monday - stop by her blog to see an array of goegeous mosaics on just about any topic you can imagine!!

Thanks for stopping by....

Weekend in Chicago....

2010-06-12T14:12:00.001-05:00

Last weekend my sis Julie, niece Katie & I drove out to Chicago to spend a long weekend with my sister Molly. Molly is getting ready to move to Dallas and since it was Jules b'day we thought we would make the quick trip. Katie has a close friend that is going to school there, so she was able to visit her also.

Thursday was the traveling day - took our sweet time to enjoy the drive and scenery...

Lush greenery...

Mighty Mississippi...

Wisconsin Dells...

Oddest casino name I have ever seen...

Molly's "kids" were waiting for us... Gracie in her pink dress

Sweet Topher...

Spent the evening visiting and "helping" Molly decide which bottles of liquor to pack up for the move...sampling quite a few!! She has a friend who works in a glass shop and makes appie platters/bowls out of liquor bottles...

Molly used this one to hold spoons and forks at breakfast...

We all slept a little late on Friday... Molly's husband, Larry, works for Gold Class Cinemas. He has been in Dallas for a few months helping get the new cinema location opened. I HAD to go to one of these theatres to see if they were as luxurious as they are made out to be! We went to the Gold Class Cinema at The Arboretum of South Barrington to watch....

This theatre is unbelievable - click on the link and take the video tour. Once you make your reservation you are assigned a seat! We arrived about 30 minutes before the movie - after checking in they take you into a lounge to wait, take a drink or food order for you. We all tried the "Tartini" listed above on the specialty drink menu and relaxed until the movie...Really difficult to do in this lounge!

Huge bar and cappachino machines...

Julie relaxing before the movie - we could even request a blanket and pillow. The entire experience was first class all the way and would highly recommend going to one if there is a theatre in your area.

Later that night we went to a local bar in the neighborhood to watch the Blackhawks game - even though they lost that night they did end up winning the Stanley Cup! Katie's friend, Lynzee, had gone to the movie with us earlier. The two of them ended up having a great time..stayed longer than the three of us and ended up walking back to Molly's. But we received a phone call and they weren't sure if they were going the right way, so Jules went out with a flashlight to try and meet up with them. I was standing outside and even I could hear them when they spotted the flashlight!!

Saturday we spent some of the day shopping - went to my first Sur La Table store!! Literally spent way over an hour in that store...so much to see. Then by sheer luck the Coldwater Creek store was having a 50% off everything in the store sale.

In the evening Julie had never been to Navy Pier so we took the train and went downtown. The weather was not cooperating with us and ended up pouring down rain - they closed the pier and the Ferris wheel so Jules never got the chance to enjoy it. We had dinner that night at "Bubba Gumps"...fun, fun place to eat. (even if Jules spilled my entire drink all over the table)

This sign was on each table - the first side meant everything was OK..or flip it over to tell them you needed something... too cute! We all had fish entrees, mine was tilapia; Katie & Lynzee had bourbon bass; Molly , shrimp and THEN Jules (who doesn't care for fish) had Southern Fried chicken breasts.

My drink with a "lighted glass".. giving the glass to my friend Sue for her grand kids to enjoy and fight over!!

Sunday morning we went out for a nice leisurely brunch... no photos of that..my sisters think I'm weird enough as it is taking photos of their dishes before they can eat! Go figure.. but I had one of their specials, Crab cakes Bearnaise! Then it was time to leave and head the 7+ hours to go home! I have been to Chicago a number of times and have seen all the "hot spots", this trip was so enjoyable, slow-paced and was just what the Dr. ordered...Relaxation! Even though Jules and Katie were ready to throw "Richard" (My Tom-Tom) out the window a few times we all had a good time and will have to go visit Molly in Dallas the next time!

Topher sticking his tounge out at Julie - he really wanted to come home with ME!!!!

Black Raspberry Cream Pie...

2010-05-31T14:51:00.000-05:00

An easy summer pie that delivers a powerful taste of fresh fruit! Top with a dollop of whipped cream and you have a perfect ending to any dinner.

The recipe I received through the Better Homes & Gardens newsletter takes no time at all to prepare, freeze until firm and serve it up!

Black Raspberry Cream Pie

9- inch graham cracker pie shell

1 egg white, beaten

1 Cup whipping cream

8 oz pkg. cream cheese softened

10 oz jar of black raspberry spread

Fresh black raspberries, lemon peel twist and/or mint leaves (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Brush pie shell with beaten egg white. Bake for 5 minutes. Cool on a wire rack

2. In a medium mixing bowl beat whipping cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peals form, set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl beat cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until smooth. Add the fruit spread. Beat on the low speed until combined. Fold in whipping cream. Spoon mixture into pie shell. Cover and freeze for 4 to 24 hours or until firm. Garnish with the fresh black raspberries, lemon peel, and/or mint. Makes 8 servings.

I used fresh blackberries for garnish and they went very well with the taste of the pie!

Be prepared to be WOWED !!!

Foley's Follies

Chicken Scampi

Angel Wings

Chocolate Covered Coconut Macaroons

Pork Chops with Brown Sugar Caramelized Onions

The Race is On....

Foodie Friday - Flashback Friday

Bittersweet Wedding....

What's the Secret to Yeast Breads????

Crispy Honey Walnut (Pecan) Shrimp

Apple Filled Phyllo Pockets

Last flowers of the year

October Harvest Moon

Leftovers of the Season ....

60th Birthday Party...Not Mine!!

Late night treat.... Cake in a Cup

Fresh Veggies....

Happy Birthday Baby Kitty...

Suzy's Ice Cream Social 2011

Cathy@ Wives With Knives Did It Again!

Baby Tears...

Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps

My first Hummer....

Happy Mothers Day ...

Martha's Madelines

Angel Food Cupcakes

Baby Eagles in Decorah, Iowa

First Blooms....

Happy St. Patrick's Day ...

Kathleen’s 3rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Blog Crawl

Wouldn’t dare miss this annual blog crawl since I have Irish heritage from both my Dad & Mom. More importantly my friend, Kathleen, is so gracious to host this every year. Make sure you stop by Cuisine Kathleen and check out all the links.

Now for the treats ...

Chocolate Mint Irish Cream Cheesecake

Adapted from BHG

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups finely crushed chocolate wafers, chocolate graham crackers or chocolate Teddy Grahams*

6 tablespoons butter, melted*

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened room temperature

1 8-ounce carton dairy sour cream

1 cup sugar

1 8-ounce package semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled

3 eggs

1-2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/2 cup Baileys Irish cream Chocolate Mint liqueur

2 tablespoons whipping cream or milk

2 teaspoons vanilla

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. For crust: In a medium bowl, combine crushed chocolate wafers, melted butter, and cinnamon; toss gently to mix. Press mixture onto the bottom and up the side of a 9- or 10-inch springform pan. Set aside.

2. For filling: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and melted chocolate. Beat with an electric mixer on medium to high speed until smooth. Using a wooden spoon, stir in eggs just until combined. Stir in cornstarch, liqueur, whipping cream or milk, and vanilla.

3. Pour filling into the crust-lined pan. Place springform pan in shallow baking pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until center appears nearly set when gently shaken.

4. Cool in springform pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Using a small sharp knife, loosen from side of pan. Cool for 30 minutes more. Remove side of springform pan. Cool for 1 hour. Cover and chill for at least 6 hours or up to 24 hours. Makes 16 servings.

5. *Note: If using a 10-inch springform pan, use 1-3/4 cups crushed chocolate wafers (about 21 cookies) and 7 tablespoons butter, melted, for the crust.

NEXT…

A very simple and quick dessert

“Lucky You" Mint Pie

Very Best Baking

1 cup (6 oz.) Nestles Semi-Sweet Mini Morsels

1 can (12 fl. oz.) Evaporated Milk

1 tablespoon butter

1 prepared 9-inch (6 oz.) chocolate crumb crust

1 package (3.4 oz.) vanilla instant pudding and pie filling mix

1/3 cup water

1 teaspoon peppermint extract

3 to 4 drops green food coloring

1 container (8 oz.) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided

Additional Mini morsels, fresh mint sprigs (optional)

MICROWAVE 1 cup morsels and 1/3 cup evaporated milk in medium, uncovered, microwave-safe bowl on HIGH (100%) power for 45 seconds; stir until smooth. Stir in butter; pour into crust. Refrigerate for 20 minutes or until cool to the touch.

MEANWHILE, BEAT remaining evaporated milk, pudding mix, water, peppermint extract and 3 drops food coloring in medium bowl until combined. Gently stir in 2 cups whipped topping and additional drop of food coloring, if desired. Spoon over chocolate layer.

REFRIGERATE for 2 hours or until set. Sprinkle with additional morsels. Spoon remaining whipped topping in center of pie. Garnish with fresh mint.

Last but not least….

I HAD to try Kathleen’s soda bread. Now keep in mind I never make bread of any kind, except maybe banana bread. Had no idea if I was doing it right, what the consistency was supposed to be, NADA, NOTHING to go on! I left out the raisins since they are not a favorite of mine.

Irish Soda Bread

Kathleen’s Recipe

4 C flour

1 t salt

4 t baking powder

1 t baking soda

3/4 C sugar

2 t caraway seed