The Kitchen Counter

In Need of a New Toaster

2012-01-16T07:55:00.000-08:00

And just what is my old toaster doing that is sending me out searching for a new one?? I just have no luck with toasters!!

In Need of a New Toaster

Recipe for Lemon Cheesecake-No Bake Cheesecake

2012-01-02T11:42:00.000-08:00

Other than my daughter, is there anyone else out there who doesn't like cheesecake?? Prepare to begin drooling.

Recipe for Lemon Cheesecake-No Bake Cheesecake

Delightful Christmas Cookie Gifts

2011-12-14T09:46:00.000-08:00

Head to the kitchen... we are making cookies for Christmas presents this year. The link below will tell you everything you need to know.

Delightful Christmas Cookie Gifts

Keurig Café Escapes Milk Chocolate Hot Chocolate K-Cups, 18 Pack - Categories - Home - Bloomingdale's

2011-12-08T10:40:00.000-08:00

Seeing that I have already asked for the Keurig Coffee Maker for Christmas... I might as well ask for this too. ;)

Keurig Café Escapes Milk Chocolate Hot Chocolate K-Cups, 18 Pack - Categories - Home - Bloomingdale's

How to Make Jello Cake

2011-12-07T12:32:00.000-08:00

Maybe you have to be my age to appreciate a cake like this lol!

How to Make Jello Cake

How to Make Yucca Fries

2011-11-15T12:34:00.000-08:00

These are amazingly good! What I like the best is the fact that they are SO FILLING, you can't eat as many as you would the normal french frie. So the next time you are at the supermarket, pick one up. I was amazed the first time I tasted one.The bread, I have never tried, but I would think that would be almost as good. It's next on my list!!

Before you leave, why not sign up to follow me. Something new every day! :) It's in the far column to the right!

Brass Knuckles Coffee Cup

2011-10-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to look for stocking stuffers and it seems that coffee mugs just might be the answer!!

Amazon.com

Today The Good Dishes Come Out

2011-10-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it's just me or not, but I have a tendency to use our old chipped dishes when it's just the three of us and then the minute we have company, out comes all the good dishes, the good silverware, the napkins... etc. Well, I think that I'm going to start using our "good stuff" on the weekends.

I don't want to use them everyday, or it won't seem like a novelty, but weekends just might work. How about you?

I think that I will also get out the cute little coffee mugs that I use more for decoration than anything else! What a waste!!

Slow Cooker Moroccan Brisket with Red Onions and Apricot Couscous Recipe

2011-10-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

I love recipes that pretty much take care of themselves!! This is definitely going on my to-do list for next week!!

Slow Cooker Moroccan Brisket with Red Onions and Apricot Couscous Recipe : Robin Miller : Food Network

Baked French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup Recipe : Paula Deen : Food Network

2011-10-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

I love this idea. You make breakfast the night before and then in the morning you pop the pan into the oven, make your coffee and then serve French Toast to everyone in ONE sitting! Sounds pretty yummy if Paula Deen is involved!!

Baked French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup Recipe : Paula Deen : Food Network

Before you leave, why not sign up to follow me. Something new every day! :) It's in the far column to the right!

Halloween Treats - Scarily Scrumptious : Spooky Halloween Cupcakes - YouTube

2011-10-04T13:30:00.000-07:00

The kids will come home any day now asking for goodies for the school Halloween party. This is the easy way to keep everyone including yourself... happy :)

Konitz Classic Chalk Talk 12-Ounce Mug, Black, Gift Boxed: Kitchen & Dining

2011-09-13T16:31:00.000-07:00

You might as well have fun while you wait for your coffee to drip!!

In Need of a New Canister Set

2011-07-19T07:47:00.001-07:00

I have owned the same canister set since I was married... in the seventies. I think that it's time to look for a new one. Orange bins just aren't working any more! ;)

I think that these would look a lot nicer and I wouldn't have to hide them away under the counter~!

Witmer Company Peanut Butter Mixer, Model 300: Kitchen & Dining

2011-07-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

Is it just me or are there other people out there that can make a mess when you try to stir the oil into the peanut butter! This should help BIG TIME!! All you have to do is stir the knob and the "stirrer" takes care of the rest!
$12.14

Amazon.com: Witmer Company Peanut Butter Mixer, Model 300: Kitchen & Dining

Dexas Watermelon Cutting Board

2011-07-16T09:46:00.000-07:00

Is this cute or what?? Certainly looks a lot better than mine does at the moment. And now that I think about, is anyone doing theme kitchens any more?? I used to have strawberry themed kitchen back in the 1980s...

Dexas Watermelon Cutting Board | Dillards.com

The Container Store > Dinner Is Served Plate Cases

2011-07-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

Ahh, to be organized!!

The Container Store > Dinner Is Served Plate Cases

Perfect for the Bedroom

2011-04-04T11:56:00.000-07:00

Seeing that my office is in my bedroom, I have often wished that I had a microwave that could fit onto a tiny table... this just might be it!! Just think of all the hot chocolate or cups of tea that I could brew!!

Sharp Half Pint Microwave Oven

Hot Cocoa With Melted Snowballs

2011-02-27T10:02:00.001-08:00

Hot Cocoa With Melted Snowballs

With the odd weather that we have been experiencing this year, I thought that a mug of hot cocoa just might do the trick. But the cool part is the melted snowballs that are added!

How To...

    * 6 teaspoons sugar
    * 4 teaspoons baking cocoa
    * 4 cups milk
    * 1 cups miniature marshmallows
    * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

   1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, cocoa, milk and the marshmallows. Stir, while simmer over medium heat until the marshmallows are melted. Remove from the heat, add the vanilla and then ladle into mugs.You must might find that winter isn't so bad after all!!

Kitchen Tips…

1 tablespoon equals 3 tsps
2 tablespoons equals 1 ounce
4 tablespoons equals ¼ cup
5 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon equals 1/3 of a cup
8 tablespoons equals ½ cup
12 tablespoons equal ¾ cup
16 tablespoons equal 1 cup
4 cups equals 1 quart
4 quarts equals 1 gal

---
1 cup semi sweet chocolate pieces equals 1 - 6 ounce package
2 cups granulated sugar equals 1 pound of sugar
4 cups sifted confectioners sugar equals 1 pound of confectioners sugar
2 ¼ cup pack brown sugar equals 1 pound brown sugar
3 cups raisins equal 1 fifteen ounce pack
3 cups of shredded coconut equals a half pound of shredded coconut
3 to 4 tablespoon lemon juice equals one lemon

Don’t forget…
1.    Put on an apron before you begin baking
2.    Read the recipe twice… chances are you will miss something first time around.
3.    Place a sheet of paper over the recipe page that you aren’t using. Trust me, it is very easy to start following the directions of the wrong recipe.
4.    Place all ingredients on the counter ahead of time. That way you will know if you have every ingredient you need.
5.    Keep all of your measuring cups and spoons in one drawer. It’s easier to find them that way! And you might want to have more than one set. Again, it just makes things that much easier.

Cleaning the Kitchen
1.    Fill the sink with hot soapy water and as you use items, drop them in the water to soak.
2.    When you are taking items out of the refrigerator, spot check to see if any shelves need to be wiped down. Doing it on a regular basis makes the job that much easier.
3.    Same goes for the stove. Wipe the surface every time you use it and check the oven as well. Burnt on spills wipe up easier if they haven been baked on numerous times.

tags: hot chocolate, winter drinks, snowballs, melted marshmallows, cocoa, cleaning the kitchen

Cornbread Stuffing for a Crowd

2011-01-20T08:17:00.001-08:00

The holidays might not be the only time you need to make a big dinner. As your kids get older, you will find yourself with new members of the family to feed... so this recipe just might come in handy!

6 cups crumbled cornbread (buy it or make your own)
4 cups crumbled biscuits or toasted dry bread cubes
1/2 cup butter
1 cup chopped onions
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tsp dried sage leaves
1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
1/2 tsp pepper
4 cups chicken broth

Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees.

You are going to need a 13x9 inch baking dish, so grab it and set aside. You are also going to need a large bowl. Might as well get that out at the same time.

Melt the 1/2 cup of butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat and then saute the onions and celery until they are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking

Take your bowl, combine the onion mixture, crumbled cornbread and biscuits, the spices and the broth and mix well.

Spray the 13x9 inch pan that you put out earlier and then spoon in your cornbread .

Bake at 375 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown.

You should have plenty to serve with dinner as well as left-overs to use on top of turkey sandwiches.

Brownies for a Cold January afternoon!

2011-01-16T10:44:00.000-08:00

We have tons of cookies left over from Christmas, but what am I thinking about this afternoon?? You got it... I'm thinking brownies!!

Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan

Hanging a Mirror on the Wall of Your Diningroom

2010-11-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

I'm always moaning about how small my dining room is, and while I can't do anything about the size without moving, I can "make it look bigger". Just find the right mirror and you will be surprised... and then there was something about hanging it on the west wall that I read somewhere. Why do these things stick in my mind??

*Large Wall Mantle Glass Mirror Living Dining Room

Jerdon JGL9W 5X Magnification Tri-fold Lighted Mirror (nothing to do with the dining room, but everything to do with spotting those little hairs on your chin before someone else does! )

Southwestern Carved Cherry Finish Wood Cheval Floor Mirror (this one would look gorgeous in the bedroom!!)

Fogless Shower Mirror with Squeegee by ToiletTree Products. Guaranteed Not to Fog, Designed Not to Fall. (a little something for that favorite guy in your life ;)

Apple-Cranberry Crisp

2010-11-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

Topping
16 gingersnap cookies
1 cup lowfat granola

Filling
2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
1 cup dried cranberries
1 Tbsp grated lemon zest
Serve with: vanilla ice cream

Recipe Preparation

Grab an apron, put on your favorite cd and lets start baking!!

1. Pre-heat oven to 375°F. Spray a 9x11 baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. Prepare your topping by crushing the cookies and then add the granola.

3. Filling: Combine the pie filling, the cranberries and lemon zest and spoon into baking dish.

4. Sprinkle with Topping and then bake uncovered, until topping is golden. This should take about a half hour. Serve the crisp warm or at room temperature.

And don't forget the ice cream!

Baby Snowballs for Christmas Cookie Exchange

2010-11-01T15:15:00.001-07:00

You will need...

1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) butter or regular margarine, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp vanilla
1/2 tsp salt
3 cups flour
2 cups (12 ounce pkg) mini chocolate chips
1/2 cup finely chopped nuts
powdered sugar

1. Put on some Christmas music, your favorite apron and then get out a bowl. You are going to cream together the butter, sugar, vanilla and salt until fluffy. Now add a bit of flower a little at a time until it is all worked in. Now add the chocolate chips and nuts.

2. Scoop out tablespoons of dough and form into a ball. Bake at 375 degrees until they are lightly browned. Remove from the oven and sift snow (icing sugar) over the little snowballs. Allow to cool before eating, but I doubt that you will last that long! You should have about 6 dozen if you don't eat them all first. If you can hold off, try cooling them on a metal cooling rack.

Things To Consider

1. If these cookies are to be shared, be sure that you are aware of any allergies that your child’s friends might have.

2. Keep your own hands clean. While preparing the food, you will probably touch about a zillion different surfaces. Be sure to wash your hands often!

3. Read the recipe twice… at least. I have quickly scanned a recipe, that then completely missed the fact that I needed eggs. Yes, definitely been there and done that.

4. And be sure that you cover the page of the cookbook that you aren’t using. I have combined recipes more than once. Sometimes, I have gotten away with it, other times I haven’t! Better to be safe than sorry.

5. As you run out of ingredients, make sure that you write them down on a shopping list that you have tacked to the fridge. It makes baking so much easier if you actually have all the ingredients!

6. For best results, be certain that all of your ingredients are fresh. It does make a big difference.

7. I actually use a lot of powdered milk in my baking. That way I can make the amount I need and there is no chance that we will run out when breakfast time rolls around.

Butterscotch Bubble Loaf

2010-10-28T13:01:00.000-07:00

Just in case you are thinking about what little goodie you could take to the office this week!

Before you leave, why not sign up to follow me. Something new every day! :) It's in the far column to the right!

No Bake Haystacks... Homemade from your Kitchen

2010-09-26T15:50:00.000-07:00

The kids are asking for cookies and you have little or no time to make anything. But do you. Cookies don’t have to be difficult and time consuming! Not my cookies anyway. Head to the kitchen. I have provided some recipes that even I can't mess up!

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There are cookies that have about twenty steps to them and then there are cookies or goodies that you pretty much just throw everything into a bowl, stir and then spoon out onto a cookie sheet. If it’s fast to whip up, I want to know about them. I hope that you will follow my series of Cookies you can whip up with your eyes closed. So lets get started. Grab your apron and lets make some cookies!

Recipe: No Bake Haystacks

1 3 oz pack of cream cheese
1/4 cup milk
4 cups icing sugar
4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted
pinch of salt
1/2 tsp vanilla
6 cups miniature marshmallows
7 ounces flaked coconut

Cream the milk and the cream cheese together.
Stir in the icing sugar, a little bit at a time.
Now add the chocolate, the vanilla and the salt.
Now fold in the marshmallows.
Scoop out heaping tablespoons and roll in coconut. Chill and you are done
.

.

Things To Consider

1. If these cookies are to be shared, be sure that you are aware of any allergies that your child’s friends might have.

2. Keep your own hands clean. While preparing the food, you will probably touch about a zillion different surfaces. Be sure to wash your hands often!

3. Read the recipe twice… at least. I have quickly scanned a recipe, that then completely missed the fact that I needed eggs. Yes, definitely been there and done that.

4. And be sure that you cover the page of the cookbook that you aren’t using. I have combined recipes more than once. Sometimes, I have gotten away with it, other times I haven’t! Better to be safe than sorry.

5. As you run out of ingredients, make sure that you write them down on a shopping list that you have tacked to the fridge. It makes baking so much easier if you actually have all the ingredients!

6. For best results, be certain that all of your ingredients are fresh. It does make a big difference.

7. I actually use a lot of powdered milk in my baking. That way I can make the amount I need and there is no chance that we will run out when breakfast time rolls around.

Tags: goodies, brownies, baking, baked goods, fast and easy recipes, children’s lunches

Halloween in My Kitchen!

2010-09-13T15:32:00.000-07:00

It really isn't hard to tuck little bits of Halloween all over the room. All you have to do is look for salt and pepper shakers. These are two of my favorites.

Black Haunted House Mini Salt and Pepper Shaker Set, Halloween

2010-09-13T13:33:00.000-07:00

Even soup out of a can looks mighty impressive if you ladle it into a gorgeous soup tureen.

3-Piece Soup Tureen Serving Set with Ladle, White

2010-09-13T13:31:00.000-07:00

For those days when you really don't want to cook... dump stuff in and plug it in. Dinner magically appears!

Hamilton Beach 33967 Set 'n Forget 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Kitchen Laughs

2010-08-30T10:34:00.000-07:00

If dinner is a little too quiet, have each member of the family tell a story about the dish they positively can't stand and then prepare for lots of laughter. We have done this with slight variations and the dinner hour is never boring lol!

Tomato Soup Too Bland??

2010-08-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

If your tomato soup out of a can is just a wee bit too bland, stir in some salsa and then top with some crispy tortilla chips. That should just about do it and it took you all of about ten seconds.

:)

Do you have any suggestions for fancying up a bowl of tomato soup??

2010-08-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

It is amazing what you can find when you digging... or even asking for that matter. It is amazing what people will tell you and most of the time... it's interesting!

*In Greece, the oldest member of the family is always served their coffee first. At this point in time, that wouldn't be me... but my day is coming lol...

*In North America, it seems that we live on coffee, beginning when we first wake up, and more often than not, finishing our day with cup. In Italy, coffee seems to be an event more than something that we just take for granted. I kind of like that!

*Remind me to pass on Cowboy Coffee if I am ever asked. Apparently, it is made in quite an usual way that begins with a sock... clean, but still a sock.The sock is filled with coffee and then placed in a pot containing cold water. The pot is heated over a campfire and the the coffee in poured into mugs and shared. Just something about that is turning off lol... On the other hand, it does have this comradery to it that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy. Nah... think I will still pass.

*If you are watching your caffeine intake, apparently the stronger the roast, the less caffeine the coffee contains. I would have thought that it would be the other way around. Good thing, because I like my coffee strong!!

*Now here is something interesting... the next time that you pour yourself a cup of coffee, check out the size of the bubbles. What you are going to be looking for are lots of little bubbles. They stand for good luck. What you don't want to see are large bubbles... those stand for bad luck but between you and me, I'm going to turn that around. If I see a big bubble in my coffee, I look at it as a win is coming my way.

*I guess I never gave it very much thought, but there is some work to be done before we actually get to the coffee bean. Apparently in the fields coffee "cherries" grow on the coffee bushes and every single one of them has to be picked by hand. Inside the coffee "cherries" you will find two beans. That is a lot of work for a single cup of coffee if you think about it. Later this afternoon when I make a pot of coffee, I think that I will be a bit more grateful at just how easy it is for me to enjoy a cup!

* The industry can't quite decide whether coffee is good for you or not. I guess that it is a personal thing. My husband can't drink coffee after 3:30 which drives me nuts. I can drink it all day long and then sleep like a baby the minute my head hits the pillow. Not so with my husband. He will be wide awake most of the night. For me, I find that coffee relaxes me.

* Apparently over 50% of the "adults" living in North America drink coffee in some form. I guess that puts my 28 year old daughter in the other 50% of the population. One thing that I have noticed though is the fact that her teeth are a whole lot white than mine are. Is it the lack of coffee?? The only thing that I can base my findings on is the fact that her diet is pretty much identical to ours... other than the fact that she is a veggie junky.

* As of today, a regular cup or ordinary coffee will cost you somewhere around $1.38 which reminds me of a little coffee shop in my old home town. Every morning a group of seniors would meet for coffee and a good chat and on one particular morning, the gentlemen at the table were extremely upset. Coffee had just been raised to $1.00 and they weren't having it... and there wasn't a person in the coffee shop that wasn't aware of it lol.

* As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold. Author Unknown

So there you have it...a few little odd little tidbits about coffee that I was unaware of!

Image via Wikipedia

Your Frog Kitchen Timer

2010-08-05T08:22:00.000-07:00

Let this little guy keep track of your cooking time! Just look at the look on his face lol!

More info...

Today's Cooking Quote

2010-08-05T08:18:00.000-07:00

Cook ingredients that you are used to cooking by other techniques, such as fish, chicken, or hamburgers. In other words be comfortable with the ingredients you are using.

Bobby Flay

Peanut Butter Muffins

2010-08-05T07:52:00.000-07:00

Because diabetes runs in our family, I always reduce the amount of sugar to no more than 1/4 of a cup. I have gotten used to the "lack of sweetness" but it might take some getting used to! But it will be worth it in the end! I hardly miss it at all anymore. Just this small amount satisfies my sweet tooth!!

Ingredient List:

2 medium eggs, beaten.
2 cups of sifted flour.
1 cup of milk.
½ cup of crunchy peanut butter (as low in sugar as you can find)
¼ cup of sugar.
2 tablespoons of oil. (if you prefer to use butter, be sure to melt it gently.
3 teaspoons of baking powder.
1 teaspoon of salt.

1.Combine all dry ingredient and sift to prevent lumps.
2. Stir in peanut butter and stir into submission (that means a lot) You might want help with this if you are using natural peanut butter.
3. Crack eggs into a bowl (watch for bits of egg shell) and then add milk. Wisk with a fork. Pour into batter.
4. Add the melted butter and stir until mixture is somewhat combined. (I'm still having a hard time telling you not to beat it thoroughly)
5. Spray muffin tins with vegetable spray and then fill each well equally.
6. Bake in a hot (400 degree F oven) for about 25 minutes. Again, place pans in center of oven and check 5 minutes before timer goes off just in case your oven is hotter than mine.
7. Allow to cool for a few minutes and then turn out onto a baking rack to cool.
*note that I specifically mentioned crunchy peanut butter. Because of the low amount of sugar, the crunchiness of the nuts just seems to make up for it. :)

Granite Counter Tops

2010-07-31T09:29:00.001-07:00

Just remembered something that I wanted to pass along. I have been having problems with my granite counter tops. Whatever I cleaned it with, left a cloudy film. And then one day I just used 3 little squirts and cleaned the entire surface... yes out counter is about 12 feet long. No problem at all. It seemed that I was using way too much. So, if this has been happening to you, try a little bit less each time and see if you get back that sparkle.

And, the brand I was using was one of those environmental brands. Can't think of the name, but it smells just like gin and bitter lemon lol!!

Its Called a Balls of Jello: Homemade from Your Kitchen

2010-07-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

The family wants a dessert and your are drawing a blank. What can you whip up in under a half hour?? Jello to the rescue!

-----------------------
There are easy desserts that have about twenty steps to them and then there are desserts that you pretty much just throw everything into a bowl, stir and then spoon into a baking dish. If it’s fast to whip up, I want to know about them. I hope that you will follow my series of easy desserts you can whip up with your eyes closed. So lets get started. Grab your apron and lets make some cookies! You might even want to get the kids to help. They could be getting bored right about now!

Balls of Jello

* 1 small package flaked coconut
* 1 8 serving size strawberry Jell-O
* 2 cups grated nuts
* 1 can sweetened condensed milk

1. Remove 1/4 cup of coconut and set it aside.
2. Combine all of the remaining ingredients, and then form into walnut sized balls.
3. Roll in the last 1/4 cup of coconut and place in the refrigerator.
4. Don't expect them to last very long.

*Not a big fan of strawberry jello? Use can use any flavor you like.

----------

Things To Consider

1. If this dessert is to be shared with other children, be sure that you are aware of any allergies that your child’s friends might have.

2. Keep your own hands clean. While preparing the food, you will probably touch about a zillion different surfaces. Be sure to wash your hands often!

3. Read the recipe twice… at least. I have quickly scanned a recipe, that then completely missed the fact that I needed eggs. Yes, definitely been there and done that.

4. And be sure that you cover the page of the cookbook that you aren’t using. I have combined recipes more than once. Sometimes, I have gotten away with it, other times I haven’t! Better to be safe than sorry.

5. As you run out of ingredients, make sure that you write them down on a shopping list that you have tacked to the fridge. It makes baking so much easier if you actually have all the ingredients!

6. For best results, be certain that all of your ingredients are fresh. It does make a big difference.

7. I actually use a lot of powdered milk in my baking. That way I can make the amount I need and there is no chance that we will run out when breakfast time rolls around.

Tags: jello, fast and easy recipes, children’s lunches, treats, quick desserts

Mint Chocolate Frost… Homemade from Your Kitchen

2010-07-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

The kids are asking hot and sticky and so are you for that matter. Time to cool off with a nice cold drink that you actually know the ingredient list! Lets head to the kitchen. I have provided some recipes that even I can't mess up!

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There are some drink recipes that have about twenty steps to them and then there are recipes that are amazingly simple. Actually, the easier they are to make, the better I like them. I simply have too much on my plate for fussy recipes!

Mint Chocolate Frost
2 sq. chocolate
1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1 qt milk
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
pinch salt
1/2 pint ice cream

1. Melt chocolate
2. Add water and boil until mixture thickens.
3. Add sugar and milk and continue cooking for 5 more minutes
4. Chill syrup

To Serve...
Add flavors, salt and ice cream and then whip it all up with a rotary beater.

Perfect for a hot summer afternoon on the porch. psss you can add another little bit of ice cream to the top just for good measure.

Picnic Thoughts: Things To Be Aware Of!

1. Be sure that you are aware of any allergies that your friends might have.

2. Keep the glasses inside or turned upside down if they are set outside. Insects will be very happy to fight for the drinks that you put out or be quite willing to walk around the rim!

3. Be sure you know exactly how many people will be attending and how many glasses or mugs you will need. Trust me, there is nothing worse than running out at the wrong time!

4. Be sure to make lots of ice ahead of time, but be sure that it is fresh!

5. Your hands will come into contact with the glasses, mugs or tea cups often. Be sure to keep your own hands clean. Just think of your concerns if you are visiting someone. While preparing the drinks, you will probably touch about a zillion different surfaces. Be sure to wash your hands often!

6. If you are offering fresh fruit and veggie spears in your drinks, , be sure to also wash them thoroughly. You have no idea how many people at the supermarket have handled the same item before you purchased it.

7. Be sure to inspect the glasses after they have come out of the dishwasher. They have probably been blasted with scalding temps, but the high temperatures could have bake the food particles in place and no one wants a glass that looks dirty.

Tags: tall glasses, ice cream drinks, summer drinks

Granite Counter Tops...

2010-07-18T12:35:00.001-07:00

This is all new to me. I need help with my counters... What are you using on yours? I'm really not liking the way they look!

5 Ways to Put off Procrastination

2010-07-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

It's easy to check out your to-do list and then walk away. You simply aren't in the mood to do any of those things. Well, I think I learned a little trick to help you cross everything off of that list! Here's my plan of action!

1. Keep your list small. Actually I create a list a day for the coming week and I only put ten things on each list! That means by the end of the week, I will have accomplished 70 different things. That's pretty amazing if you think about it.

2. Decide what important stuff needs to get done and what's not so important. I try to have both kinds of items on each daily list. That way things are getting accomplished, but the list is not over powering.

3. Set time limits for each project, you might be surprised. I always hated cleaning under the kitchen sink, so I would schedule ten minutes on my kitchen timer and when the timer went off, I was done. Funny thing about that was the fact than more often than not, the area under my kitchen sink would be spotless at the end of that amount of time. I had been putting something off that would only take me ten minutes... I just didn't realize it!

4. Schedule fun things to do on your daily to-do list. For every five items that aren't so much fun, try to pencil in five items that you might actually enjoy! Here's just one example that works for me. I love muffins, but I hate getting the kitchen all messed up and then there are all the steps required to bake a batch. More often than not, I decide that I don't really need those muffins. But my little trick is to make up batches of dry mix and leave it in my baking cupboard. When I want muffins, all I have to do is pull out the mix, add an egg, some milk and sometimes a little oil and all is left is the stirring part. Suddenly, muffin making moves over to my fun list. Just like that!!

5. Use those little minutes to get things done. It is amazing just how much can be accomplished in just a few minutes... like tidying your desk for example. It just looks like a huge job, so you ignore it as long as you can!

Tonight's Cooking Quote

2010-07-12T19:42:00.001-07:00

"Noncooks think it's silly to invest two hours' work in two minutes' enjoyment; but if cooking is evanescent, so is the ballet."
Julia Child

Can't Stop Thinking About Coffee

2010-07-08T09:19:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to cut back on how much coffee I drink and guess what I can't stop thinking about... that's right. I'm thinking about my next cup!

Can't Stop Thinking About Coffee

I Like them Again!!

2010-06-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

As a kid I thought that Ritz Crackers were so boring and for years and years, I never bought them (as an adult) but my husband brought a box of them home over the weekend to go with cheese for a barbecue that we were hosting. I tried one (somewhat half-heartedly) and found that they were pretty good. Either my tastes have changed as I have gotten older, or the recipe has changed!! I'm really impressed!! I think I have some catching up to do lol...

Ritz Crackers, 12-Ounce Boxes (Pack of 6)

Ritz Cracker Sandwiches with Peanut Butter, 4-Count Single Serve Packages (Pack of 120)

Handi Snacks, Ritz Crackers 'n Cheez, 6-Count Boxes (Pack of 12)

Nabisco Ritz Crackers - 2 Pack (pack Of 300) Pack of 300 pcs

In Praise of Left-Overs

2010-06-23T13:59:00.000-07:00

Sometimes left-overs aren't so bad. I have to come up with dinner tonight and every muscle I own is screaming. Having something I can grab from the fridge suddenly doesn't sound so bad. I even hurt too much to go out. My plans are to simply nuke something, put it on the table, watch a little TV tonight and go to bed early. I'm hoping that I feel a whole lot better tomorrow!

I just might have to order me one of these! No one who knows me would have believed that it caught my attention.

Today's Question about Chocolate Chips??

2010-06-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Can you use too many chocolate chips in a muffin recipe?? My family insists that if you can see the muffin between the chocolate chips, you simply didn't use enough!

What's your take on it??

FUNNY MCDONALDS COMMERCIAL

2010-06-08T17:29:00.000-07:00

Have no idea how old this MacDonald's commercial is but wait for the ending. lol

What We Are All AboutWhen I was little, I loved to stretch out across my bed and write stories. Give me a blank book of paper and a pencil and I was in heaven. Sometimes I think that we forget all about the fun part. I hope this blog brings a little of it back! :) You have one minute to write down anything that comes into your head! Starting now :)A Year of Weddings Also featured at AllTop.com. Who doesn't love weddings? :)

Himalayan Salt Crystal Votive Candle Holder Set of 2

2010-05-30T18:09:00.000-07:00

Never really liked the fact that you had to plug these salt crystal lamps in... like it a lot better that you can put in a tea candle if you preferred. Not sure that I would even light it in the kitchen, but it would look awesome next to my "The Sorceror's Cookbook" which my daughter picked up for me a couple of years ago.

No, I'm not a sorceror lol, but it certainly makes my kitchen look that much more interesting!!

Amazon

Maple Bacon Praline Strips

2010-05-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

1 pound bacon
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3 tablespoons maple syrup
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons white sugar

DIRECTIONS
Fry bacon in your favourite frying pan until evenly browned. Drain slices on several thicknesses of paper towel.
Spread your pecans on a baking sheet (supposedly pronounced “pecauns” or so I’ve been told and toasted for about 8 minutes until they smell amazing and they have turned a nice golden brown color. Whatever you do, don’t allow them to burn. I have been pronouncing them “pecans” which is what you take onto a boat just in case. ;)
Combine the syrup, butter sugars and cook over medium high heat until the syrup becomes rather foamy and the temp has reached 270 degrees which is apparent the soft crack stage. (My mom used to be able to do this with a cup of cold water. She would let a tiny amount of syrup drizzle into the water and be able to tell within seconds how hot or what stage the syrup had achieved. Not me. )
Now this is the part that you are going to love. Toss in the bacon and coat each strip. Remove from the hot syrup with a pair of tongs, and don’t be tempted to drizzle a little onto your finger. This stuff is HOT! Once the strips have been coated with the syrup mixture, sprinkle on the chopped pecans. Allow to cool on a parchment lined baking sheet and then enjoy. You will have a hard time going back to regular old fried bacon, but I did! I love bacon and tomato sandwiches and the sugared bacon simply doesn’t work. But eating a slice of bacon on it’s own… heaven!!

2010-05-12T08:10:00.001-07:00

I just cleaned off my kitchen counter and it is SPOTLESS. What is sitting on yours that really shouldn't be there. You wouldn't believe the items that I put away, so don't feel that you are going to win any contests here lol... I have you beat, trust me lol...

Easy Dinner

2010-05-11T17:55:00.001-07:00

What did you have for dinner tonight?? We had potato soup which turned out to be a lot better than I expected.

5 Summer Time Recipes You Can't Live Without!

2010-04-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

I don't think that there is a better place to grow up than on a farm when you are a kid. We had a massive garden and I'm surprised that there was anything left to actually use to make lunches and dinners during the summer months, but there always was. I don't think mom or dad had any idea how often we raided the garden... but we always seemed to have room for lunch or dinner whenever we were called. If only I could eat like that now lol...

Summer Time Coleslaw what is summer without coleslaw? It just makes summer perfect! That and potato salad lol...

Restaurant Style Potato Salad on my way to trying every potato salad recipe I can find.

Strawberry Lemonade It used to be plain lemonade... but then when I tasted strawberry lemonade, there was no going back!!

Tomato Cucumber Salad... used to eat a lot of this kind of salad because it was two things in our garden that refused to stop growing!!

Strawberry Shortcut Cake... yes, we grew a lot of strawberries back then too. You would think that we would get sick of them, but we never did!!

STAINLESS STEEL WIDE STRAWS! Also use for Stir Sticks Swizzles. 8"L x 3/8"R - SET OF 4. FAT/WIDE Beverage, cocktail, drinking in silver metal. Smooth no Groove...germ fighting straws**: Kitchen & Dining

2010-04-23T17:46:00.000-07:00

Unusual enough to perk up a little attention. Now who wants a boring party??

Amazon.com: STAINLESS STEEL WIDE STRAWS! Also use for Stir Sticks Swizzles. 8"L x 3/8"R - SET OF 4.

2010-04-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

If you are going to own a tea kettle, why not own one that looks like a strawberry ;)

Animal Kettle 2.5-Quart Whistling Enamel on Steel Strawberry Tea Kettle

True Friendship Begins in the Kitchen

2010-04-06T19:18:00.000-07:00

True friendship is like sound health, the value of it is seldom known until it be lost.

Charles Caleb Colton

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Favorite Toy in Your Kitchen

2010-03-11T17:56:00.000-08:00

Image by ewen and donabel via Flickr

What is your all time favorite appliance in your kitchen?? Come on... there must be one item in there that you could not live without. Me... it's my refrigerator with the ice dispenser. None of my other refrigerators had this function and I never really thought that it was such a big deal... until my new house came with this kind of fridge. I really can't imagine not having one and when we move on to a new house... in a few years, I'm going to want a fridge just like it. Okay, I'm kind of thinking of one with a computer too. How cool would that be??

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

Thoughts and Prayers

2010-02-27T08:18:00.000-08:00

Thoughts and Prayers... go out to all people affected by the earthquake and the tsunami warnings that must be frightening so many people!

I can't even imagine, but I'm sitting on the edge of my seat as I watch the coverage. Hugs to everyone.

Old Fashioned Cheese and Apple cookies for Winter Snacking

2010-02-24T08:12:00.001-08:00

3/4 cup butter
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 large apple (grated and core removed)
2 1/2 cups flour
1 cup very old cheese, shredded (we buy cheese and leave it in the cold room)
1/2 tsp baking powder and baking soda
smidgen of salt

1. Choose a relatively large bowl and beat butter and sugar until if is fluffy.

2. Add one egg at a time and continue beating.

3. Stir in grated apple but do not over-beat.

4. Sift together the flour, baking powder, soda and salt an then add the cheese.

5. Stir into the butter mixture but again, no over-beating.

6. Scoop out dough using a tablespoon and then drop onto a greased muffin tin and bake in center of the oven at 350 degrees until biscuits are a golden brown in color. Should take about 15 minutes, but every oven is different.

7. Allow to cool on the cookie sheet and then serve. If there are any left, they can be stored in a cookie tin between layers of waxed paper.

If you have plans to serve during the holiday season, these can be stored in the refrigerator up to a month.

Olive Wood Knife

2010-02-22T19:37:00.000-08:00

A knife entirely made out of wood. Yes, it did catch my attention. Would love to get a closer look at the detail! From what I can see... it looks gorgeous!

Details...
Handcarved in Spain, our 7-inch long blunt knife is made of rich olive wood. Perfect for serving soft cheese and spreads, and of course, our Artichoke Appetizer Dip. $6.50

Olive Wood Knife

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Today's Question... and it's about your kitchen counter

2010-02-20T07:52:00.000-08:00

What is on your counter at this very moment that's really not supposed to be there??

Have to admit, that I have a crock pot sitting on mine, but for a good reason. I can't remember where it is supposed to be stored. It's a new house and I haven't finished arranging and rearranging the kitchen quite yet. Hopefully someone in the family will pick it up and store it where it needs to go lol!

Maple Hot Chocolate

2010-02-16T12:43:00.000-08:00

Now this is interesting... hot chocolate with a tablespoon of butter and then some maple flavoring thrown in for good measure. Never had hot chocolate with butter in it?? I wonder...

Maple Hot Chocolate

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How Two Little Boys Clean a Kitchen Sink!

2010-02-15T10:13:00.000-08:00

Setting Up Your First Kitchen

2010-02-13T09:38:00.000-08:00

Today's question... what was the last thing you bought for your kitchen to make life a little bit easier??

Sometimes shopping for the kitchen can be more fun than you ever imagined. Using something brand new has its perks!

Follow Friday... Who's cooking on Twitter!

2010-02-12T08:20:00.000-08:00

Today's Follow Friday and I thought that I would see who is cooking this morning on Twitter!

Cata Vino
Imbibe
Giada De Laurentiis
101 Cookbooks
Epicurious

Have fun!

Cup Cake Cookie Jar

2010-02-11T12:55:00.000-08:00

Is there a kitchen counter that this WOULDN'T look good on?? $22.50

Tag party Cupcake Cookie Jar, 8" x 7.5"

Wordless Wednesday...

2010-02-10T09:30:00.000-08:00

Okay... can't do it... ;)

10 Things I Didn't Know About Chocolate

2010-02-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

1. There are many types of cocoa trees grown in different regions along the equator including Africa, Mexico, South America, the Caribbean, Indonesia and Malaysia. To date, I have only seen them in Martinique.

2. The chocolate that we salivate over come from three distinct cocoa bean:

The Forastero, the most bitter of all cocoa beans
The Criollo: the one that is the mildest
The Trinitario: which is a hybrid of the two varieties above.

3. Strangely enough, the less sugar that is added to the chocolate, the better the flavor.

4. White chocolate isn't chocolate at all apparently. Unless the "white chocolate" has a yellow cast, there is no trace of any chocolate in the ingredient list at all. If the white chocolate is a yellowish shade, it is because it contains cocoa butter. Now you know!

5. Things to consider... the "scent" of the chocolate. If you rub it between your fingers, a lot of different scents should greet you. Chocolate apparently has a lot of layers to it. Same goes for when you taste it. All chocolate is not created equal!

6. The first chocolate drink was thought to be made up of ground cocao bean paste mixed with spices and corn. The spices added to the recipe I can understand. Not quite sure the roll of the corn?

7. Apparently the Aztec emperor Montezuma drank 50 golden goblets of hot chocolate every day. That is a lot of hot chocolate!

8. In the UK, about 25 pounds of chocolate is consumed each year. I can believe it. I've tasted their chocolate. It's is quite amazing!

9. Bosco Chocolate Syrup was actually used in the movie Psycho for the blood scene. I wonder is that brand is still around??

10. Okay, I'm still working on this one!!

How To Prepare Dough for Pizza

2010-02-09T03:56:00.000-08:00

This has to be the hardest part of the process... thank goodness we have a bit of help!!

Cooking Quotes about Kissing

2010-02-07T18:22:00.000-08:00

Kissing don't last: cookery do.
George Meredith

Can't argue with that one!

What they are saying about Campbell's Soup

2010-02-06T18:22:00.000-08:00

Just in case you might have a can of Campbell's Soup in your kitchen... thought that you might be interested!

The Low-Calorie Soup War: Campbell's Defends Its Honor On Twitter [Souped Up] (jezebel.com)

Campbell Soup: Market Leader? (seekingalpha.com)

Carrs/Safeway Highlights Week of 2/3/10 (alaskasbestgrocerydeals.blogspot.com)

Campbell Soup Company Launches Select Harvest Soups in Foodservice (eon.businesswire.com)

Campbell Canada encourages industry to help in the fight against hunger with expanded food bank commitment (newswire.ca)

Campbell's Soup Tureen w/ Ladle -- Campbells Kids Picture on Front -- as shown: Everything Else

2010-02-06T18:18:00.000-08:00

Couldn't resist... the minute I saw this tureen, I knew that I just had to have it. Call it a "Comfort Dish for a "comfort kind of meal. And with the weather we have been having lately, I don't think that anyone would turn down a bowl of hot soup!

Amazon.com: Campbell's Soup Tureen w/ Ladle -- Campbells Kids Picture on Front

Spicy Tomato & Chocolate Soup | Inn The Kitchen

2010-02-06T18:12:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but the minute I saw the title, I just had to take a second look. It's just one of those combinations that I would never have thought to put together!

Spicy Tomato & Chocolate Soup | Inn The Kitchen

How to grow an Irish Strawberry Tree - Tips 'n' Ideas

2010-02-06T15:53:00.000-08:00

Didn't even know that there was such a thing. Amazing what you can learn when your aren't even trying lol...

How to grow an Irish Strawberry Tree - Tips 'n' Ideas

Can't Even Cook Toast!

2010-02-06T11:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, I have screwed up toast on more than one occasion, but it wasn't my fault! It was the toasters' Really!! And have you noticed that toasters don't seem to last very long these days? I can't count the number that we have gone through since we got married! My kids are beginning to rely on them as our next Christmas gift!

Available at AllPosters.com

Home Style Griddle Cakes with Chopped Apple

2010-02-03T15:41:00.000-08:00

Ingredients:
2 large cooking apples, peeled and finely chopped
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 slightly beaten egg
1 1/2 cup milk
3 tablespoons cooking oil or melted butter
*Cooking oil for greasing the griddle
*Unsweetened applesauce can be served in place of syrup but is optional

Directions:

*Combine the chopped apples and lemon juice in a medium sized bowl and then set aside.
*In a second bowl, combine the dry ingredients.
*In a third bowl, combine the egg, milk and the oil and then add the egg mixture to the second bowl containing the dry ingredients. Do not overmix.
*Add the apple mixture stirring gently. The batter is going to be lumpy, but don't worry about it.
*Grease the griddle or frying pan lightly and then place over medium heat until a few drops of water bounce on the surface.
*Measure out the batter. Each griddle cake should be about 1/4 cup.
*Each griddle cake will cook for about 2 minutes. Flip and cook the next side. If sticking begins to occur, add a little more oil and continue until all of the griddle cakes are ready to serve.

Interesting Facts About Pancakes

*In Newfoundland, tiny items are added to the batter (just before lent) for fortune telling purposes.

*In 1999, 40,000 people were served pancakes as part of a pancake breakfast! I wonder just how many pancakes that would have added up to?? If three pancakes were prepared for each person, that would be somewhere around 120,000 pancakes! And then you can't help but wonder just how much syrup would have been needed!

Romantic Personalized Valentine Dish by customsepia on Etsy

2010-02-01T10:55:00.000-08:00

There must be millions of people who chose Valentine's Day to get married... but I think that anyone could claim the day as their own.

Romantic Personalized Valentine Dish by customsepia on Etsy

Premium Salt Collection

2010-01-20T10:41:00.000-08:00

And each of these salts actually has a different flavor. Is that cool or what?? $29.99

Premium Salt Collection

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Valentine Bark

2010-01-18T19:17:00.000-08:00

Have you noticed all of the gorgeous candy that has suddenly turned up in all the stores. This year has featured a lot of varieties of "Christmas Bark" and while it is gorgeous, it is too easy to make yourself to put out big bucks! Instead, follow my recipe and then make tons of it as gift for anyone and everyone on your Christmas list. And just in case you don't like peppermint, simply remove it from the ingredient list and substitute your favorite kind of nut! There... done!
12 oz chocolate chips
16 oz white chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 cup peppermint candy, crushed
You are going to need a 9x13 inch pan. Generously line it with foil and then turn on the oven to 250 degrees.
Spray the foil with your favorite cooking spray and then sprinkle the bottom with chocolate chips. Spread them out to create an even layer.
Pop into the oven for a few minutes so that they are nearly melted. Remove and then finish the job with a knife to smooth them out. Pan will then be placed in the refrigerator until the chocolate is cold. Grab yourself a cup of coffee and a good book and put your feet up.
Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave. Allow to cool for a few minutes and then pour over the chocolate layer. If I can stick my finger into the white chocolate for a taste ;) I know that it is ready. Add your peppermint extract and then pour over the chocolate layer. No time to daudle here... work quickly. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes and then pop back into the refrigerator until set.
Remove from the pan and remove the foil. Break into pieces and it is ready for giving... or eating. ;)
Okay... this is on my to-do list for Valentine's Day... I think that the crushed candy canes will still work!!

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Getting Ready for Valentines Day

2010-01-18T08:41:00.000-08:00

1. Frame an old valentine and hang it on the wall.
2. Grab a set of heart inspired paper napkins. Actually I would use them throughout the month of February.
3. Red candles are perfect for kitchen counters... and if they are to be used, sit them on coasters to catch the possible candle drips.
4. Make a batch of plain vanilla cupcake. Frost them with butter frosting and then sprinkle with red sugar. That should take you an hour or so if you use a cake mix!
5. Instead of buying a card this year, you might want to think about creating your own and with all of the scrapbooking materials on the store shelves these days, it couldn't be easier.
6. If you have been saving your Valentine cards from previous year, you could glue them to a ribbon to create a hanging display. Hang from a tiny push pin (decorative ones are available at home reno stores) and then remove when February draws to a close.
7. Fill little jars with candy hearts. Can you believe that they are still around?? And if you want something even hotter, go with the tiny red hearts!!

A Little Help :)

Something to Think About!

2010-01-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

While enjoying your coffee this morning, you might think about this quote!

People who think money can do anything may very well be suspected of doing anything for money. Mary Pettibone Poole

Making Your Marshmallows Grow

2010-01-09T15:58:00.000-08:00

I have no idea why you would want to do this, but it was fun watching them grow bit by bit! Yeah, I should be helping with dinner, but this was more fun!

Before you leave, why not sign up to follow me. Something new every day! :) It's in the far column to the right!

Turmeric Recipes May Have Healing Powers

2010-01-08T12:01:00.000-08:00

Image via Wikipedia

This is quite an impressive read! We are having curry tonight... I just might add a bit more turmeric to the pot for good measure. The stuff is amazing! I had no idea!

I have suffered from an aching back for... lets just say a LONG TIME. I'm really curious to see if this can help!

Turmeric Recipes May Have Healing Powers | HULIQ

The Messy Kitchen

2009-12-27T09:43:00.000-08:00

“The only thing that I have ever successfully made in the kitchen is a mess. And several little fires.
Carrie (from Sex in the City)

Sex and the City - The Complete First Season

Saving Old Bottles

2009-12-27T09:36:00.000-08:00

I don't know if it's something that you start doing as you get older?? good heavens, I hope not, but I have begun to save bottles that are interesting shapes and using them for everything from canister sets to decorating with them. I can only wonder what people think when they come into my kitchen?? Oh well, I'm old enough not to care lol!

The Country Kitchen

2009-12-27T09:33:00.000-08:00

In the childhood memories of every good cook, there's a large kitchen, a warm stove, a simmering pot and a mom.”

Barbara Costikyan

Buy at AllPosters.com

Amazon.com: Julie & Julia (the movie)

2009-12-13T10:43:00.000-08:00

I have hinted just about as much as I possibly can for this movie... now I just have to wait and see if it worked!

more info here

Collecting Novelty Coffee Mugs

2009-12-12T07:34:00.000-08:00

Why is it that I didn't notice all of the chips in my coffee mugs before the holiday season rolled around. I think that I need to head out and pick up a lot of new mugs and seeing that Christmas is right around the corner, I might just as well look for some "Christmasy" mugs!

Collecting Novelty Coffee Mugs

Christmas Cookies x SIX

2009-12-09T13:34:00.000-08:00

"Mexican Spiced Macaroons

14-ounce package sweetened coconut flakes

3/4 cup sugar, divided

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon, divided

1/4 teaspoon cayenne

6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

4 egg whites"

These look awfully good... especially the cayenne pepper part. Head over to Salina.com for how to mix everything together and five other Christmas cookie recipes. You might want to put in your order for a treadmill, because you won't be able to resist these cookies!!

Apron: Black and White Polka Dots

2009-12-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

I can still remember my grandmother with the apron that never seemed to come off. This doesn't look like it... even a little bit! This one is actually kind of cute! Can't cook, but I like the apron lol!

Details of this apron

Last Minute Festive Centerpieces | Bukisa.com

2009-12-01T07:11:00.000-08:00

Here is an article that I whipped up while trying to decorate the house for Christmas this year. I need Christmas ideas fast... we are still in the process of moving into our new home! And now I think we are having family visit for Christmas. Can't wait, but I'm sure not ready!!

Last Minute Festive Centerpieces

Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Crushed Pecans

2009-11-19T18:14:00.000-08:00

Image by dr.coop via Flickr

Ingredient list:

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled
1 tbsp. butter
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup brown sugar (not packed) 1 tsp cinnamon
Additional sprinkling of cinnamon and 1/2 cup chopped pecans to use as topping
Directions

Peel sweet potatoes and then cut into smaller cubes. Place in boiling water and cook until they pieces are soft and mushy. Drain, place in bowl and then mash with a potato masher. Be sure to rinse the masher before the potatoes have a chance to dry. Trust me on this one. Add butter and milk and stir to combine. Now fold in your brown sugar and cinnamon. Scoop into a bowl for serving and top with a little more cinnamon and your chopped pecans!

*Be sure that you have gone through the pecans carefully, checking for bits of shell. Chomping down on a piece of shell is going to ruin your career as TV chef want to be lol! Just remember that all good things arrive by word of mouth! It's definitely who you know, not what you know!

Here's to one amazing Thanksgiving Dinner! :)

So I'm Not the Only One Who Can't Cook!

2009-10-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

“I can't cook. I use a smoke alarm as a timer.”
Carol Siskind

LOL... I don't use it as a timer, but I have set it off enough times to make the neighbors wonder what I actually do in the kitchen!

Nambé - Morphik Two-Tier Server - Saks.com

2009-10-25T09:23:00.000-07:00

Is this cool or what?? Now I simply have to make some new friends in our new home town so that I can have a party!

Nambé - Morphik Two-Tier Server - Saks.com

Tricks and Treats Halloween Party Favor Boxes by paperacorn

2009-10-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

Perfect for the elegant halloween party you are hosting this year. Bake up a batch of cookies and give them to your guest in these cute little boxes!

Tricks and Treats Halloween Party Favor Boxes by paperacorn

Chocolate Got the Better of Me this Morning!

2009-10-21T07:39:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

I slipped up this morning! I have been trying really hard to watch my sugar, but there is a tin of chocolate chip cookies in the cupboard that kept calling out to me this morning... and what could I do? Sure tasted good with coffee!

You might also want to join me here... Too little time and too many ideas. ;)

Thinking About Soup

2009-10-18T09:21:00.000-07:00

I'm sure that I'm right in this... but I guess I could be wrong. No, I'm positive that when I was a kid we were allowed 5 soda crackers per one bowl of tomato soup and my kids thought that this was hilarious... especialy my daughter who thinks that a stack of crackers is the necessary amount.

But the last time my mom came for a visit, I asked her to verify this for me and she looked at me is surprise! "You could have as many as you like", she stated, much to my annoyance. My daughter loved it, needless to say! So, if my mom is right... where did I get that 5 cracker maximum from??

But at least I was right about the tomato soup... still love it, but I have a real hard time adding more than 5 crackers lol!

Blueberry Blue Cornmeal Pancakes

2009-10-13T08:26:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Living in a hotel really isn't that great for the waistline and I'm really beginning to look forward to checking out my new kitchen. No one saw that coming... even me. I usually leave it up to my husband and daughter to take care of everything but baking, but I do want to find myself some blue cornmeal. Apparently it does taste pretty awesome! Mary has some awesome pictures and a recipe that you are just going to want to try the first spare minute you get. So be sure to check it out. This is definitely going to be my first weekend breakfast the minute we move in!

It's Apple Butter Day

2009-10-11T07:23:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

I love exploring different cultures and finding food items that sound kind of odd to me. That lead me to something called Apple Butter! I have to admit that I have never tasted Apple Butter and I really can't even imagine what it might taste like?? Is it a combination of apple sauce and butter?? That sounds kind of odd to me, so the best thing to do would be to go and find a recipe for the stuff. So I found an article as well as a recipe, so if you are like me... and really haven't a clue about it, well now you can give it a try. The link above will tell you everything you need to know!

Happy Thanksgiving to all my family at home who is celebrating the day! Miss you all!

My day... Hopefully it will get easier!

2009-10-10T15:27:00.001-07:00

Spent the entire day looking at houses today and not one seemed to be perfect. I guess it's back to looking again tomorrow. Hopefully I will have more luck tomorrow. I did see a few interesting kitchens today though, I must admit. Now if I could just find a house that fits in every other category, I would be all set. Off to dinner now. I'm tired and hungry.

Are You Wasting Coffee?

2009-10-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

It's so easy to do. You climb out of bed in the morning and while still half asleep, you make an entire pot of coffee... that you probably won't finish. That means, that a lot of it is going to be poured down the drain. It might be a smarter idea to simply make a smaller pot, or invest in a smaller coffee pot. We are living in a hotel at the moment as we look for a new house and the hotel offers a little 4 cup coffee pot. Surprisingly enough... it's the perfect size for the two coffee drinkers in our family!

You might also want to join me here... Too little time and too many ideas. ;)

Chipotle Olive Bread

2009-10-03T08:39:00.000-07:00

Image by asha susan via Flickr

Summer salads are definitely a thing of the past... where I live at least, but I just spotted this recipe for a spicy/salty bread that I think would be amazing with a good thick bowl of soup. The restaurant that I was at featured lentil soup, and I think that would work perfectly!

Did I mention that I don't have a kitchen at the moment. Still living in a hotel, but we head out on Monday for the big adventure!

Chipotle Olive Bread - Recipes - Food - Canadian Living

You might also want to join me here Too little time and too many ideas. ;)

Coffee in Charles Dickens Day

2009-09-30T09:41:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

"“The coffee was boiling over a charcoal fire, and large slices of bread and butter were piled one upon the other like deals in a lumber yard.”
Charles Dickens

I was good until I got to the part about the lumber yard. Then he lost me lol...

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