Happier Than A Pig In Mud

In A Pickle Over Super Bowl Snacks?

2012-01-30T05:52:00.001-05:00

How about one last dip this season... As soon as I saw Pickle Dip I knew I had to try it! Now, if you scoop this dip up on your finger you'll probably think "eh", the magic happens when you add potato chips:@)

Of course you do have to love dill pickles and this time I'm not even going to suggest veggies!

Pickle Dip
8oz cream cheese, room temp
1/2 to 1 C dill pickles, finely diced-I used closer to 1 C
1 Tblsp Worcestershire sauce
Dill for garnish if desired
-Mix all and serve at room temperature with chips.

I found these beauties while perusing the pickle isle at Walmart, $1.62 of happiness! If you love pickles and like a little heat these peppers are great! I'd describe them as hot banana peppers in a bread and butter pickle brine. I've been eating them like M&M's!

I wouldn't hesitate to put a bowl of these out on a cheese and cracker tray or near sandwiches. And if you happen to find Cracker Barrel-Cracked Black Pepper Cheddar that's a beautiful thing too-yum:@)

I hope you all have a 'super' day:@)

Bobby Deen's Goulash

2012-01-28T20:27:00.005-05:00

Hey everyone! Bobby may be busy skinny-ing up his Moma's recipes, but this Philly girl is redoing one of his. I've been making this Goulash for a couple years now and it's very flavorful, I highly recommend it!

My only concern was the amount of sodium, there are 5 ingredients in the recipe that contain salt. I've completely omitted one of them and reduced the House Seasoning considerably. I like it and think you might too!

Bobby's Goulash
2lbs lean ground beef
2 large onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tblsp Italian Seasoning-seems like a lot but don't cut back on this, it's important
3 bay leaves
3 C water
2 (15oz) cans diced tomatoes
2 (15oz) cans tomato sauce
3 Tblsp soy sauce-I do use all of this
1 Tblsp Paula Deen's House Seasoning-Start with 1 tsp and add more if needed, I don't add more
1 Tblsp Paual Deen's Seasoned Salt-I don't use this
2 C elbow macaroni-I used whole wheat this time and do add an extra handful

Brown the ground beef in a dutch oven, break up and spoon off any grease.
Add onion and garlic, saute until tender, about 5 minutes.
Add everything except macaroni. Stir well and bring to a light boil, cover, reduce heat to simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
Add elbow macaroni, stir well, add lid and cook for 30 minutes (I say 10 minutes).
Turn off heat, remove bay leaves and allow to sit for about 30 minutes before serving (I take off heat and don't wait).

Notes:

This is a very simple recipe to cut in half.
I feel you can easily cut back on the meat and add more pasta.
The macaroni will get very over cooked if you stick to the suggested times. I set a timer for 10 minutes and that's when dinner is ready! If the 30 minutes of "sitting" time is to add even more flavor, I'd add it to the simmer time before adding the pasta. I even spread the leftovers out in a wide pan to cool faster so the pasta doesn't get too soggy.
Great additions: paprika, either sweet or smoked-about 1/2 tsp. Crushed red pepper flakes-a few hearty shakes.
Here's the House Seasoning recipe if you'd like it.

Have a flavorful, happy day:@)

Acrostic Poem for January

2012-01-28T06:04:00.000-05:00

Happy Weekend Everyone! Seems like the last couple years kids were doing a lot of this in January...

A Child's View of January 2012

Jumping up I rushed to see,
A snowflake floating freely.
Nothing but rain greeted me,
Unceremoniously.
Ain't no sledding in Philly,
Rain is stealing all my glee.
You bet it is, yessiree!
(Stomping foot and walking away from window)

Personally, I don't mind the lack of shoveling:@)

Have a happy day!

Got A New Toy!

2012-01-27T06:57:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! Since I cut a lot of recipes in half the boys gave me the KitchenAid 3 quart bowl and mini whip for Christmas-thanks guys! I've used it a few times now and it does work fine. Is it as good as the bigger bowl and paddle for batters? I don't think so, you definitely need to use higher speeds to get everything mixed together. I do like the smaller size however, and will keep testing it on different recipes.

I'm most excited about trying it for egg whites, the reviews were very good for that.

I see Lemon Meringue Pie in the near future:@)

Have a happy day!

Freeze Your Orange Zest

2012-01-24T17:45:00.007-05:00

Hey everyone! I tend to be an impulse baker, it's not unusual for me to decide to make muffins in the morning to take to work that day and I love to add citrus zest... I just don't always have it handy. So, while we're all still being healthy here in January (you are still eating healthy, right?:@), may I suggest zesting the skin of your orange before you peel it, then pop the zest into the freezer.

And of course this works with lemons, limes and grapefruit too.

Wash the orange well in warm water, dry it.
Zest it, measure and place on plastic wrap.
One naval orange gave me approx 1 1/2 tsp of peel.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it.
Only takes minutes to thaw and use.

Happy baking:@)

I'm joining Foodie Friday.

Chocolate Spritz

2012-01-22T15:00:00.006-05:00

Hey everyone! Don't put the cookie press away just yet, let's put that heart shaped plate to use!

Chocolate and Valentine's Day go together like...

Kittens and Cuddles?
Sunday and Sports?
Chips and Dip?

Pork and Potatoes?

Ooops... looks like someone is not amused...

ok, they go together like Hearts and Flowers:@)

I found the over-sized candy heart decorations at Michaels, I've also seen a red/pink/white combo.
They'll be adorable for gingerbread men at Christmas too-yep, I do try to think ahead.

Chocolate Spritz Cookies
1 C butter softened
2/3 C sugar
1 egg, large
1 tsp vanilla
2 1/4 C A/P flour
1/3 C unsweetened cocoa (of the store brands, I prefer Hershey's-just this reporter's opinion)
1/2 tsp salt

Cream butter/shortening, sugar, egg and vanilla till light and fluffy.
Add dry (I sift mine together) to wet, mix well. This will be a thick dough but kind of sticky. I did the last bit of mixing by hand.
Use cookie press on cool, ungreased, not non-stick, light colored cookie sheets.
Bake at 350 for 5 minutes (or till desired firmness/color, mine take about 10 minutes).
Cool and enjoy!

This is the cookie press I'm currently using, they can be found at Marshall's, TJ Maxx, etc.

Have a happy day:@)

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It's a Keeper Thursday
Full Plate Thursday
Foodie Friday
Sweets for a Saturday

Jello Frosting

2012-01-21T13:34:00.014-05:00

Hey everyone! I'm on a mission this year to try new recipes, and I mean really follow the recipe. So far I've made dips and soups, it's time for dessert! Coleen posted this frosting and the novelty of it caught my eye, I'm sure kids will LOVE it! If you haven't stopped by Coleen's Recipes recently I do encourage you to, I always find great inspiration in what she makes.

How fun to match the color to the holiday, cherry for Valentine's and lime for St. Pat's sound great.

This is a really fun project for a snowy day with the kids! (Yep, this pic is on my snow covered picnic table.)
They'll be wide-eyed just watching the jello turn from red liquid to pink marshmallow fluff.
It's a very light, silky icing that has the faint flavor of the jello.
I used cherry, the color is bright pink with little flecks of red-very pretty!

Coleen suggests this is best eaten the day it's made-not a problem.

Notes: Try to not let the cupcakes touch, the icing will stick to each other and break off.
Different jello brands (Royal, etc.) do not come in 3oz packs, so be sure to get the Jello Brand.

Jello Frosting
3 oz package Jello (pick your flavor/color, not sugar free)
2/3 C sugar
1 egg white
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 C boiling water (must be boiling to dissolve the sugar)

Put everything except boiling water in the metal/glass bowl of your stand mixer fitted with whip attachment.
Turn the mixer to high just as you add the 1/2 C boiling water.
Whip on high for five minutes. I literally used a timer and #10 on my KitchenAid.
Will frost 24 cupcakes or 9x13 cake.

Have a sticky sweet, happy day:@)

I'm joining:
Sweets for a Saturday
Seasonal Sunday
Foodie Friday

Small Batch Pea Soup

2012-01-18T06:57:00.000-05:00

I've been cutting way back on recipes ever since my sons moved out and it works well for me (Earl really doesn't eat much:@) This is a soup I can make with pantry items year round adding ham if I have it, or changing it up with some barley if I feel like it. You can make a hearty vegetarian dish using barley and either vegetable stock/base or just water. Sometimes I add whole frozen peas at the end for crunch.

I'm using a 4 quart electronic pressure cooker from QVC, mentioned before that I love it! This soup will be done in 20 minutes cooking time, about 35 minutes total. If you don't have a PC simply make it on the stove in a 2-2.5 quart covered pot, adding extra water if you need to.

Ingredients:

Earl would be optional, but not recommended... he's kinda high maintenance:@)

Pea Soup-Small Batch, two bowls
1/2 C dry split peas (sorted)

Barley, a handful-optional

1 1/2 C water-2 C if using barley

1 1/2 tsp Chicken Better Than Bullion

1/3 C onion, chopped

1 stalk celery, sliced

1 carrot, peeled and cut into thicker slices

1 clove garlic, diced

couple shakes of celery seed

Ground pepper

Ham, diced-optional

Tblsp butter

Milk, approx 1/8 to 1/4 C per bowl

Put peas, barley (if using) water and chicken base in PC. Cook on high for 15 minutes.
Release pressure using the quick release method.
Add onion, celery, carrot, garlic, celery seed, pepper and ham if using. Cook on high for 5 minutes.
Release pressure using the quick release method.
Stir in butter. At this point you will have approx 2 cups of pea soup. You can either add milk to the whole batch, approx 1/4 to 1/2 C (or more to your desired thickness), or split the peas into two bowls, eating one and cooling and freezing the other.
After freezing, thaw and heat, then add the milk and serve.
If cooking on the stove, mix everything except butter and milk, cook gently till peas are soft stirring occasionally-approx 1 hour. Add butter and milk at the end.

Eat well and have a happy day:@)

Black Bean Dip

2012-01-15T15:22:00.002-05:00

Greetings from chilly Philly! It's been a very cold weekend, good for watching football and munching.

I literally threw this super simple dip together in 5 minutes, everyone liked it so I thought I'd share:@)

Black Bean Dip
(1) 15 oz can of black beans, rinsed well
1/2 C salsa

1 tsp vinegar-I used red wine vinegar
1/4 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
A few grinds of black pepper

-Put all in a food processor and let 'er rip!
-Serve with chips or cut up veggies.

Have a happy day:@)

Food for thought...

2012-01-09T21:04:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! This year I want to:

Crow when the urge hits me.
Strut my stuff.
Spread my wings and try to fly.
Pucker and peck those I love.
Show head and tail up-attitude is everything.
Scratch the dirt and see what comes up.
Say what I feel and let the feathers fly.
And yes... treat myself to fried foods every once in a while:@)

How about you, are you ready to do something exciting in 2012?

Have a happy day:@)

Bacon-Jalapeno Dip

2012-01-07T14:01:00.006-05:00

There is a little booklet inside the Jan/Feb issue of Food Network Magazine titled 50 Super Bowl Snacks... Oh yea, I guess they figure everyone will be done with their New Year's diet resolutions by then:@)

I say, let's whip this up for the playoffs!
Even if your team isn't in them...*sniff*

Not super model photo worthy, but boy is it good!

The jalapeno and bacon are great together.

Bacon-Jalapeno Dip
8 oz cream cheese
2 C cheddar, shredded
1/2 C sour cream
1/4 C milk
4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped (go ahead, add more-you know you want to!)
1 Tblsp bacon drippings
1 tsp white wine vinegar
2 jalapenos, thinly sliced
Breadcrumbs (preferably Panko) mixed with some butter
-Mix all but breadcrumbs, spread in a baking dish and top with buttered breadcrumbs.
-Bake at 350 until golden and bubbly, approx 30 minutes.
-I made half the recipe and used a 5" ramekin.

Have a happy day:@)

I'm Joining:
Seasonal Sunday

Baby It's Cold Outside!

2012-01-05T06:42:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone! It's been a mild winter so far in Philly, but I woke to find this yesterday morning...

A Public Service Announcement

Water freezes at 32 degrees,

broken pipes can bring you to your knees.

If you live where it gets this cold,

do your chores, no matter how old.

Fix the drips and unhook your hose,

before you're paying through the nose!

Cordially, Billy-Joe-Bob's Plumbing Service, we're in the Yellow Pages.

We now return you to your regularly scheduled blog...

Have a happy day:@)

Christmas Clearance Crafting

2012-01-01T09:01:00.006-05:00

Hey everyone! Did you find anything fun at the clearance sales? I collect glass clip-on birds for my Christmas tree and found these, kinda funky, ones at Michaels. I also found the little bells at AC Moore.

Ornaments 60¢, bells 52¢

The feathers were broken on both birds, but I was ok with that because I wanted to add some red and green ones I picked up at a flea market for 25¢, and Ma gave me these cool tinsel toothpicks...
Which one do you like better?

From ugly duckling to Christmas Swan!
Have a happy day:@)

I'm joining:
Metamorphosis Monday

Saturday Centus!

2011-12-31T15:55:00.010-05:00

This week's Saturday Centus 100 word topic is... Rezolution! Schmezolution! Thanks Mizz Jenny, I think we all can relate...

Happy New Year!

This year let's try something new,

Nothing to fail and make us blue.

No big promises or being fake,

Nothing to make our pudgy heart break.

Accept the person that we are,

Come on now, we've made it this far:@)

So I suggest we join the revolution...

and pronounce-Resolution! Schmezolution!

Happy 2012! :@)

I'm Joining:
Seasonal Sunday

2011 Favorites

2011-12-30T06:38:00.001-05:00

Hello and Happy New Year everyone! I wanted to share some favorite posts from 2011!

My Favorite Earl Post-Move Over Jim Cantore

My Absolute Favorite Recipe in 2011-Rustic Cabbage Soup

Not the prettiest picture, but a true comfort food that will warm the soul!

Simple/Healthy Meal-Oven Roasted Tomatoes with Garlic and Pasta

Hard to choose a favorite flower photo... but I like the warm colors in-Fall's Coming!

My favorite baked goodie-Candy Corn Cake

Favorite Junking find-Relish Dish

Most fun cooking technique (and second most viewed post of all time)-Dyed Deviled Eggs

And, my most viewed post of all time-Your Favorite-Yo Yo Pumpkins

Many folks wrote me saying they made them with their kids or grands-I love that!

I'd like to sincerely thank you for stopping by and spending a little, usually silly, time with me-

I've truly enjoyed your company!

Wishing you all the best in 2012 and as I say every holiday:

Eat much, stay safe and play nice:@)

Happy New Year!

2011-12-28T20:48:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone! I hope your Christmas was great! How about a little A-Z post for New Year's...

Individual salt and pepper shakers found at different flea markets for $1 each.
Is Santa blushing???

A-Absolutely love the fresh, clean start to a new year!
B-Bloated? Yea, but I'll still have that last egg nog...
C-Could you hand me the appy tray too... it's New Year's Eve, the diet starts tomorrow:@)
D-Do you bring out your snowmen after you take down the Christmas decorations? I do.
E-Every day it stays a little lighter longer, did you notice?
F-Frosted window panes are always prettier from the inside.
G-Gotta get moving, need a little exercise, start walking again. I just have to do it!
H-Holiday returns-have you made them? Did you find something you really love?
I-Icicles are beautiful! From the side view, not a good idea to stand under them:@)
J-Just take each day as it comes and if you bring a smile to someone's face-well, that's a good day!
K-Kindness, Compassion and Empathy... good buzz words for the start of a new year.
L-List 5 things you'd like to see happen in 2012.
M-May your cup runeth over with the things that do truly matter the most.
N-Never underestimate the power of a positive thought.
O-On New Year's Day this German enjoys pork and sauerkraut-with mashed potatoes of course.
P-Playoffs??? Playoffs??? Is your team still in the playoffs? *cough* Congrats if yes.
Q-Quick, list 5 things you were grateful for in 2011.
R-Resolutions, do you make them? I make "plans", plans can change, resolutions just... well... um...
S-So what are my "plans"? To use my kitchen toys more and prepare healthier lunches for work.
T-Today is truly the first day of the rest of your life-embrace it.
U-Unfortunately extra Christmas pounds require work, not wishing.
V-Valrhona chocolate is amazing! Thanks to my son for reading my blog and treating me on Christmas!
W-Will the neighbor's Christmas lights be taken down before March?
X-Xtreme winter weather... we've been lucky so far, it's been pretty mild in Philly.
Y-You ready to embrace the opportunity a new year brings?
Z-Zuppa-A nice hearty bowl will warm the body and soul!

Wishing everyone a very Healthy and Happy New Year-enjoy:@)

Earl asks...

2011-12-26T11:44:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone! We really enjoyed Christmas dinner, you might even say we "pigged out", now Earl asks...

what are you doing with the leftover ham?

Ideas for ham/the ham bone:

I picked up the smallest Food Saver bags and I'll be cubing and freezing smaller portions, just enough for a couple omelets, ham salad or to add to a small batch of pea soup.
You can freeze the whole bone to use later, or make the stock now and freeze it in portions for when you're ready to make soup or beans. You can make the stock with onions/carrots/celery like you would chicken, or keep it basic with just the bone and water adding flavoring when you cook with it.
There are many recipes on-line for creamy pasta and ham, scalloped potatoes and ham, loaded baked potatoes, soups, quiche, and last but not least, fried rice!
Appetizers for parties this week: ham and cheese cubes on a toothpick with a sweet mustard dipping sauce, stuffed into (seeded) sweet or hot pickled cherry peppers, ham cubes to dip into a cheese fondue, ham and cheese cheeseball.
Does anyone make Ham Cakes, if so, would you share your recipe?

What's your favorite thing to make with the leftovers?
Have a happy day:@)

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-22T18:15:00.000-05:00

My acrostic poem for December:
D-Don't forget to spread some cheer!
E-Every falling snowflake is a ballet-just beautiful.
C-Candy canes or candy kisses... what's your favorite?
E-Enjoy your fondest Christmas memories, close your eyes and re-live them now:@)
M-May your days be merry and bright-indeed!
B-Believe in the magic of the season and you will see it!
E-Everyone sparkles in twinkle lights and glitter.
R-Remember loved ones held so dear, whether in memory or right here.

Just for giggles... I saw this at 155 Dream Lane and thought it was so cute,

stop by and let her know what your elf name is-thanks Sonny!

Get Your Elf Name here

So... elf Peppermiz Monkey-Buns (which is better than Peppermiz Flabby-Buns I guess)

will be signing off now for Christmas!

From my home and heart to yours-

Merry Christmas Everyone-eat much, stay safe, play nice:@)

Coffee Toffee!

2011-12-21T07:05:00.005-05:00

The great thing about toffee is... besides tasting amazing, it can be made from start to cooling time in about 30-40 minutes. I saw this recipe on tastykitchen and bookmarked it months ago, I just tried it and have to say if you like sweetened coffee this recipe is different and a keeper!

Coffee Toffee
1 C (2 sticks) butter
1/2 C sugar
1/2 C brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp molasses
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp powdered instant espresso
1 tsp vanilla
1 C chocolate chips
*1 Tblsp shortening
3/4 C chopped nuts

Place silicone mat, parchment, Reynolds Release or buttered tin foil on cookie sheet.
In medium saucepan with candy thermometer attached melt first 6 ingredients over medium heat.
Stir occasionally until it reaches 250 degrees then stir constantly until it reaches 298-300 degrees.
Take off heat and add vanilla, stir well and pour onto prepared cookie sheet.
*At this point I like to wait about 6-7 minutes then sprinkle the chips over the toffee (the candy has to cool a bit before adding chips). You can test the chips to see if they've melted, it takes about 3-5 minutes... at that point spread them nicely all over the top of the candy and sprinkle chopped nuts (and nut dust) over the chocolate. Push the nuts into the chocolate lightly with your hands. OR-you could let the toffee cool and melt the chocolate and shortening in the microwave and pour over the toffee then adding the nuts.
Let cool completely, then break into pieces and store in air tight containers.

Notes:

-Use a real vanilla but it doesn't have to be an expensive/fancy one.

-I used semi-sweet chips, I think milk chocolate would actually be better on this toffee.

-Toasting the nuts first would be nice.

Enjoy and have a happy day:@)

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Full Plate Thursday
Foodie Friday
Sweets for a Saturday

Fish for Christmas Eve Anyone?

2011-12-19T20:32:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone! I'm happy to share one of my favorite ornaments today. I bought this fishing Santa at Strawbridges well over 15 years ago (anyone remember Strawbridges?). The fish drops down about 4" and Santa's arm actually cranks to reel it back in! Unfortunately he's slowing down a bit and showing some age... but it's still fun to plug him in every once in awhile, he just makes me smile:@)

I broke my fish that looked like the hook was in it's mouth, this one will do for now.

All snuggled into the tree...

Here's hoping it's the little things that make you smile this holiday season too:@)

Have a happy day!

Last minute gift...

2011-12-18T08:58:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone-How cute is this idea! It can be for a movie buff or a sports fan, simply fill a tub of microwavable popcorn with other munchies. You could always add a movie or sports highlight CD too.
I added some red foil shreds (think I'll push them down inside the bucket), you could also wrap it in cellophane and add a pretty bow.

I saw these bottles dressed up like reindeer a few places on-line and they could be soda or beer. On room temp bottles, simply hot glue 10mm googly eyes and a 1/2" red pom pom to the neck of the bottle. Then wrap brown or tan pipe cleaners around the top near the cap. A dot of hot glue will hold it in place.

For that guy in your life that's soooo hard to buy for, how about:
(he'll like it better than a sweater, I promise:@)

from Pinterest

Here's hoping you're all set and enjoying the Christmas festivities:@)

Saturday Centus!

2011-12-17T06:24:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone, now here's a Saturday Centus I could really sink my teeth into! We can use up to 50 words about this pic, thanks for the inspiration Mizz Jenny:@)

Mangia!

Time was running out,

So much to do for our family.

Had to delegate something,

I decided it would be the tree...

Thought twice about it,

I knew this would happen you see.

I know he meant well,

Oh, that silly Cousin Vinnie!

Have a happy day:@)

Kitchen Aid Flex Edge Beater

2011-12-14T06:42:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone-I got a new kitchen toy! I've always liked the idea of these silicone edge beaters but wanted to wait until Kitchen Aid came out with their own version, well they have.

My review: This beater makes creaming sugar and butter/shortening a dream! And it does scrape down the sides of the bowl nicely. If you need a gift idea for the baker in your life (or for the person that has everything), I think this is a great idea!

They come in two sizes, one for tilt head mixers and one for lift bowl mixers and can be found everywhere from Amazon to Macy's to Williams-Sonoma.

This beater has been Lynn tested and Earl approved!

Happy Holiday Baking:@)

Christmas Music

2011-12-10T17:54:00.005-05:00

Hey everyone! I'm a huge country music fan and one of the things I like best is that in addition to re-doing the classics they create new Christmas music. Everything from silly to thought provoking.

My favorite CD is Toby Keith's Christmas to Christmas (1995).

There's not one classic on the CD and he touches on everything from religion, to surviving the holidays after losing a loved one, to Santa getting a Hot Rod Sleigh painted up like Richard Petty's car! Santa I'm Right Here is a tribute to the reality of too many in these hard economic times.

Another favorite:
The Elvis Duets (2008) CD is just fun! We've all heard him sing these traditional songs before but they've added in female voices (Carry Underwood, Martina McBride, Wynonna, etc.) and it's really neat.

Here are a few songs that you can Google if you'd like to hear something different:
Hard Candy Christmas-Dolly Parton
Let's Make A Little Christmas Tonight-Phil Vassar
What Made the Baby Cry-Toby Keith
Thistle Hair the Christmas Bear-Alabama
The Angel At the Top of My Tree-Kenny Chesney
Let It Be Christmas-Alan Jackson
Merry Christmas From the Family-Montgomery Gentry-silly

Redneck Twelve Days of Christmas-Jeff Foxworthy-silly

Have a happy day:@)

A to Z Christmas

2011-12-05T19:37:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! How about an A to Z list for Christmas!

A-Anybody remember to buy batteries???
B-Bundle up, it's cold out there!
C-Christmas cheer? Why yes, I'd love another glass:@)
D-Did that string of lights just go out? Honey...
E-Even kids that don't like math are counting down the days in December.
F-Fresh cut trees, fluffy marshmallows for hot chocolate and frosty windows.
G-Gotta get one last gift...
H-Ham is a beautiful thing, think scalloped potato and pea casserole with leftovers.
I-Is it going to snow? Hopefully enough for ambiance but not enough to cause travel problems.
J-Just keep checking items off the list until you get it all done.
K-Keep loved ones that aren't near in your thoughts and send warm wishes their way.
L-Laugh-seriously, it's good for the soul!
M-Mall??? You actually want me to go to the m-a-l-l???
N-No, the cat doesn't want to wear elf shoes. Yes, it would be cute.
O-Oh no, what do you mean Aunt Ethel isn't making the jello mold this year?
P-Perfection, that point during a snow storm that's so quiet you can hear the flakes hitting the ground.
Q-Quality time=special memories.
R-Resolutions start on January 1st-eat up everyone!
S-Santa Baby, hurry down the chimney tonight-woo hoo.
T-Twas the night before Christmas and I wish you peace and happiness.
U-Ugly Christmas sweaters-believe it or not my son wanted one for the office party this year!
V-Very pretty lights, save a night to just drive (or better yet, walk) around the neighborhood.
W-Winter wonderland=Crisp cold air nipping at your nose and knowing that a warm home awaits you!
X-Xtra munchies are always a good thing to have on hand. (I thought that was better than Xanax helps to make the season bright...)
Y-You gonna eat that last cookie... really!?! Why? Because it's mine-said while giving noogies.
Z-Zoo, what zoo? That's just the family visiting (see Y above:@)

Enjoy the season everyone!

Did you ever notice?

2011-11-30T06:54:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone! Is it just me, or did you notice too...

That everyone looks cuter in a Santa hat!
The shorter time you have, the longer the line is.
"Be of good cheer" counts everywhere except department stores! I saw a bumper sticker one Christmas that said "I know there's a Hell, I work retail".
The more money put into marketing-creating the "demand", coincides with the less money put into creating the "supply".
The year you decide to scale back on the outdoor Christmas lights is the same year your neighbor puts up so many he'll probably get a Christmas Card from the Electric Company!
Christmas cookies that are a little browner on the bottom really do taste better.
Even though kids know Santa is checking his list... there's still a lot of naughty going on!
The string of twinkle lights only blows out after it's on the fully decorated tree.
and most importantly... No matter how hard you try to be organized and plan ahead, this season still sneaks up on you!

Here's hoping all of your holiday prep and purchases are going smoothly.

Have a happy day:@)

It's crunch time!

2011-11-22T18:22:00.000-05:00

We've planned and prepped,

soon the day will be here.

Wishing you good company, great food,

and lots of Thanksgiving cheer!

Ok folks, how about some corny jokes for the kiddy table:

What happened when the turkey got into a fight?

He got the stuffing knocked out of him.

Can a turkey jump higher than the Empire State Building?

Yes - a building can't jump at all.

What always comes at the end of Thangsgiving?

The letter G!

What’s the best thing to put into a pumpkin pie?

Your teeth.

Who is not hungry at Thanksgiving?

The turkey, he’s already been stuffed!

What are unhappy cranberries called?

Blueberries!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Eat much, stay safe and play nice:@)

Salmon Meatballs?

2011-11-22T06:03:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone! This week for my Personal PIGskin Challenge I decided to make Salmon Meatballs. Now, I'm always honest with you... This is very good, but there's no way they can be made into meatballs! Salmon Cakes for dinner-yes-yum, but it's too soft and squishy for meatballs.

I made the small 2.6oz pouch of salmon, so I'm going to give you the measurements for that small amount. It would serve one, maybe two people with smaller appetites and a few side dishes.

Salmon ~~Meatballs~~ Cakes
2.6oz envelope salmon
1/2 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
1 heaping Tblsp dried breadcrumbs
1 Tblsp mayonnaise
2 tsp onion, finely diced
2 tsp bell pepper (red and/or green), finely diced
A little black pepper
1/8 C breadcrumbs
1/4 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
Olive oil
Tarter Sauce (recipe follows)

Mix the first 7 ingredients breaking up the salmon.
Mix the 1/8 C breadcrumbs and 1/4 tsp Old Bay in a separate bowl.
Shape 2-3 salmon patties about 3/4" thick, coat entirely in breadcrumbs.
Cover the bottom of an 8" skillet in olive oil (about 1/4" deep) and heat to medium.
Fry the patties until golden brown on each side.
Set on paper towel to drain.
Serve with Tarter Sauce.

Tarter Sauce
1 Tblsp mayonnaise
1 1/2 tsp relish
1/4 tsp spicy mustard

Have a happy day:@)

Pig Alert! Peppermint Pigs

2011-11-20T16:50:00.012-05:00

Hey everyone! Have you heard of Peppermint Pigs for Christmas? The first Peppermint Pig was made over a century ago to symbolize the Victorian belief that the pig is a good luck charm.

I saw this little candy 3D pig that comes in a velvet pouch at Plow and Hearth and while it's cute,
it is expensive.

So I made my own version. It only takes candy canes, a pig shaped cookie cutter and some time!

Crush the candy canes and pour them inside the oiled cookie cutter, bake until it melts together.

Package it in a goodie bag (from AC Moore/Michaels, etc.) and tie it closed with ribbon.

Add a fun tag that says:

"The pig is honored in Victorian holiday tradition as a symbol of good health, happiness and prosperity. After your holiday meal, crack the candy with a hammer and share with family and friends."
It's a cute, different gift and the kids (big and small) will have fun breaking it up!

Directions:

Simply break up the candy cane into small pieces (approximately 1/4-1/2" pieces, and add the "dust" too). I used six candy canes for my 5" x 2 1/2" cutter. You could use more if you'd like.
Lightly oil the inside of the cookie cutter and place on a cookie sheet that's been lined with either parchment paper, Reynolds Release or a silicone liner.
Pour the crushed candy into it.
Bake at 325 degrees for about 10 minutes. You'll need to watch it, as soon as the candy begins to melt together but you can still see the red lines in it, it's ready to come out of the oven.
Let it cool completely in the cookie cutter. Gently pull the sides of the cutter away from the candy and store it in a plastic bag.

Notes:

Ok, I know you're wondering... where exactly does one find a pig cookie cutter... There is a great store on-line called Foose, you can get just about any cutter you want! Amazon has some and my son also gave me one he found at Sur La Table.
I put some vegetable oil on the tip of my finger and rub it on the inside of the cookie cutter.
Leave the candy canes in the plastic wrapper and break them with the handle of a butter knife or a hammer. Then you can pour the candy into the cookie cutter. Please do not use your food processor, it will just dull the blades.
Melt the candy until you get a look you like. If you melt them further they'll get smooth and turn a pinkish color.
If you know of a pig collector (as Susan mentioned her SIL), leave the candy in the cookie cutter and wrap it like that. Then she has the candy pig and the cookie cutter!

Have a happy day:@)

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Met Monday
Masterpiece Monday
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Maraschino Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

2011-11-20T09:33:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone! I wanted to share a very good cookie that I've been making for years. The cookie is chewy and very chocolaty... I think some crushed nuts around the edges would be very pretty too.

The recipe is from the Cherry Marketing Institute but I found it here.

One thing I did differently this time was instead of heating up the chocolate chips and milk on the stove I used the microwave. I won't do that again, when heated on the stove the chocolate in the center stays smooth and shiny. I made mine a little too big, so I wanted to show you what they really should look like.

These are great folks!

Maraschino Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

2 (10 oz) jars maraschino cherries

1 1/2 C A/P flour

1/2 C unsweetened cocoa

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 C butter, softened

1 C sugar

1 large egg

1 1/2 tsp vanilla

1 C semisweet chocolate chips

2 Tblsp milk

Drain cherries (squeeze juice out between paper towels), reserve 1 tsp juice.
Combine flour, cocoa, salt and baking powder in bowl and mix well.
In mixer beat butter and sugar till well blended. Mix in egg and vanilla.
Put chocolate chips and milk in small sauce pan. Heat, stirring constantly, over low heat until melted. Stir in cherry juice and let cool slightly.
Shape dough into 1" balls. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Push in centers with thumb, spoon 1 tsp chocolate mixture into the center of each cookie and top with a cherry.
Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until cookies are firm. Remove to wire racks to cool.
Makes approx 3 dozen cookies.

Have a happy day:@)

Bud Vase Napkin Rings on Clearance

2011-11-18T05:47:00.005-05:00

Calling all Tablescapers and Hostesses! Or anyone that needs a gift idea for the person that has everything... I saw these cute acrylic napkin rings in QVC's clearance section and wanted to mention them. Not only are they great for any holiday/occasion, they are a bud vase too!

Product H168208 - $15.24 + S&H - Set of 8.

Not the best pic, but if you click here you can see the video.

(The vase is actually on the bottom in this pic, the rings would be turned vertically to use it.)

Have a happy day:@)

LOL Thanksgiving...

2011-11-16T19:33:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone, hoping your Turkey Day planning is coming along nicely! How about a little coffee break...

I like that channel too:@)

I know that look!

Just too cute and cuddly!

And this one's for Samantha and all the rest of us that are missing Pig!

Have a happy day:@)

Maple Meatballs

2011-11-15T05:34:00.000-05:00

Well, maple sauce over meatballs more accurately! Maple sounded different for this week's PIGskin Challenge. Here's a great sauce to use with home made or store bought meatballs. The original recipe calls for putting frozen meatballs in a crock pot, pouring the sauce over top and heating for a few hours.

Just make sure you like the folks you're serving these to... pure maple syrup is not cheap:@)

Here's a chili sauce recipe in case you can use it.
My thoughts: This is a lip smacking great sauce, sweet, spicy and I could really taste the allspice...
The only thing missing was the maple flavor! It was totally overpowered by the chili sauce.
Full disclosure: I forgot to add the chives.

Maple Meatballs
3lbs frozen store bought meatballs
1 1/2 C real maple syrup
2 Tblsp dried chives
1 1/2 C chili sauce
1 Tblsp soy sauce
1/2 Tblsp ground mustard
Whisk everything together, add meatballs to crock pot, pour sauce over meatballs and cook on high for
4 1/2 hours, low 5 1/2 hours.

Have a happy day!

Peanut Butter Spritz Cookies

2011-11-13T18:58:00.007-05:00

Hey everyone! I've mentioned before that I love Spritz and make them year round, here's a great peanut butter cookie recipe! One thing I love about them is how easy they are to seasonally decorate, you can use Reese's Pieces for the center at Thanksgiving, red and green M&M's for Christmas, etc.

Slightly crisp, yet melt in your mouth, with great peanut butter flavor.

Please note that some of the candies will crack in the oven.

I had to buy a new cookie press and thought I'd tell you about the one I chose. I found this Kuhn Rikon press at HomeGoods and do recommend it. The cookies aren't quite as big as the ones I made with my old metal Mirro and it doesn't hold as much dough, but the one click per cookie feature works well-

I'm very happy with this purchase!

Peanut Butter Spritz Cookies
1/2 C shortening (I use 1/4 C shortening, 1/4 C butter)
1/2 C creamy peanut butter
1/4 C brown sugar
1/2 C sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/4 C flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp baking powder

Cream shortening (butter), peanut butter and sugars.
Mix in egg and vanilla.
Sift dry into wet, mix well.
Load press and form cookies on ungreased cookie sheets (do not use non-stick cookie sheets). Decorate with candy, colored sugar, etc.
Bake at 375 degrees for 9-12 minutes, till just beginning to brown around the edges.
Makes approximately 70 cookies.

Happy Holiday Baking:@)

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How I spent my Saturday...

2011-11-13T06:07:00.000-05:00

While I'm not as enthusiastic as this little guy... I have conquered the mountain of leaves in my yard!

Now for a bath in Ben Gay with an ibuprofen chaser, and everything will be just fine!

Have a happy day:@)

Pork Ragu

2011-11-11T05:38:00.001-05:00

Every once in a while a recipe in a magazine catches my attention, and this one for Pork Ragu came from the November 2011 issue of Women's Day. They wrote it up as a crock pot recipe, I just used a cast iron dutch oven (and boneless pork loin) and slow simmered it for about 2 1/2 hours on the stove.

Sure made the house smell good:@)

Pork Ragu

1-28 oz can whole tomatoes, drained

4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

2 medium carrots, cut into 1/4" pieces

1 large onion, chopped

1/2 C dry white wine

2 tsp dried oregano

Kosher salt and pepper (1/2 tsp each)

2 1/2 lb pork shoulder, trimmed and quartered

12 oz pappardelle or other wide noodles

1/2 C fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

1/4 C grated Parmesan (1oz)

In a 5-6 quart slow cooker add first 7 ingredients.
Add pork, cook covered until the pork is cooked through and easily pulls apart. 6-8 hrs low or 4-5 hrs high.
20 minutes before serving, cook the pasta.
Break meat apart into smaller pieces and stir it back into the cooking liquid. Fold in parsley.
Serve pork over pasta and sprinkle on Parmesan.

Notes:

I used boneless pork loin and browned it in the pot first.
Instead of wine (which I didn't have) I used water and Chicken Better Than Bullion.
The sauce/broth was clear, so I added a can of tomato sauce towards the end of cooking.
I also chose to add a can of rinsed cannelini beans. Sweet potatoes would be good in this dish too.
I forgot to add the parsley and thought I'd skip the Parm calories...
This is a very nice, easy, long cooking meal. I would make it again!

Have a happy day:@)

A to Z Thanksgiving

2011-11-10T05:30:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone! Here's my A to Z list for Thanksgiving... It's coming up fast!

A-Anyone gonna eat that last drumstick?
B-Butter my buns and call me Paula Deen! It just cracked me up, what can I say...
C-Cheesecake is a beautiful thing.
D-Don't wear tight fitting clothes.
E-Everything is better with gravy on it!
F-Football, that Detroit/Green Bay game should be fun this year!
G-Gooood! Everything piled high on my plate.
H-Honestly blessed to have such an abundance of food.
I-I couldn't possibly eat another thing... well, maybe pumpkin pie...
J-Just cut me a small slice-yea right:@)
K-Kick up your feet after dinner and relax.
L-Let the Christmas countdown officially begin!
M-My diet starts tomorrow and will end with the first Christmas cookie.
N-No pea shall be left behind while there are mashed potatoes on my plate!
O-Ok, who did you get for the family gift swap?
P-Pot Pie is our favorite meal for the Sunday after Thanksgiving.
Q-Quietly slip thirds onto your plate and no one will know:@)
R-Relish tray-this signals a holiday to my sons more than anything else.
S-Santa arrives at the end of the parade!
T-Turkey, and I don't mean cousin Frankie, although I don't know your cousin Frankie...
U-Use your freezer. Freeze the turkey stock for January when you'll be glad you have it!
V-Valrhona Chocolate is a beautiful thing. So I hear, haven't tried it yet myself.
W-Wishbone, did you win?
X-"X", cross my heart, I promise to help with the dishes after dinner.
Y-Yes, I'd love to take home some leftovers.
Z-Zippity-Do-Da, I'll have the boys bring out my tree and ornaments before they leave!

Have a happy day:@)

Maple Walnut Fudge

2011-11-08T06:54:00.008-05:00

Hey everyone! Thanksgiving is the perfect holiday for maple flavored treats, how about a nice easy fudge recipe I found here. I've made a few different types of fudge, some require candy thermometers and are pretty involved... This one can be made in about 15 minutes by simply microwaving chips! Just don't tell anyone how easy it is and maybe this will become your signature contribution to Turkey Day... leave the all day marathon triple layer mocha pumpkin latte cheesecake to someone else:@)

Maple Walnut Fudge
3 C white chocolate chips-I used Ghiradelli
14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
1/4 C butter
1 tsp Maple flavored extract
1 1/2 C broken walnut pieces

Grease an 8x8 baking dish and line with parchment paper, leave edges hanging over the side of dish.
Melt chips, milk and butter in a microwavable bowl at 30 second intervals. Mix between each melting, do not over heat it the chocolate will scorch.
When melted, add extract and mix till incorporated, then stir in the walnuts (work quickly).
Pour into prepared pan and smooth top, chill at least one hour in fridge. Remove from pan, slice and enjoy!

My thoughts:

Be careful with the microwaving, mine is super strong so I used a lot less than 30 second intervals.
Always a good idea to toast the walnuts for a few minutes, and don't be afraid to leave some of them bigger.
I found pure maple extract at TJ Maxx, yum!
This is a very good fudge, especially for how super easy it is.
Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Woo Hoo it's Tuesday... don't hesitate to give this a try folks:@)

Have a happy day!

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Jimmy Dean Sausage Cheese Balls

2011-11-06T05:41:00.006-05:00

Hey everyone! This week for my Personal PIGskin Challenge I'm making Sausage Cheese Balls. Another classic! I can't believe I never heard of them until now... Simple and perfect. They kinda reminded me of stuffing, it's probably the sage in the sausage and the onions and celery.

They're really good folks, don't hesitate to make these, you will be thanked!

Of course Earl says they're great...

Ya gotta invite the Pig to Turkey Day!

Jimmy Dean Sausage Cheese Balls-from Allrecipes
(2) 16oz packages regular Jimmy Dean Sausage
1 1/2 C Bisquick**
4 C Cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 C onion, finely diced
1/2 C celery, finely diced
2 tsp black pepper
2 tsp garlic, minced-I used 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Mix all, form into 1" balls, place on greased baking dish.
Bake 18-20 minutes.
Cool 5 minutes and serve.

Notes:

Some say this can be hard to mix together. I had the sausage and cheese close to room temp, mixed it with my hands and had no problem.
Makes approx 72-1" meatballs.
I used white cheddar, I think yellow may actually look better.
The recipe is easily cut in half or even a fourth.
For an extra little treat, serve with pure maple syrup for dipping on the side-very nice!
They have a lot of flavor. Many folks mention them as a holiday favorite (both Thanksgiving and Christmas) and I can see them being very popular at a party.
**Bisquick substitute: 1 C flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 Tblsp shortening. Mix well with a fork.

Have a happy day:@)

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Pies that say something!

2011-11-02T18:21:00.006-04:00

Hey everyone! Since man cannot live by meatballs alone (no matter what they think), I thought I'd make an apple pie for the game. I've used cookie cutters to embellish the top crust before here and specialty cutters here, but wanted to try something new... Love the idea of cutting letters out of the pie crust!

This could be fun with the holidays coming up, and my boys would choose pie over cake for birthdays too.
I rolled the crust out between two pieces of wax paper, removed the top paper and just free handed the letters with a paring knife. Remove the excess dough in the letters.
Place the wax paper back over it, flip the crust and remove the paper from the back side.
Very carefully... position the crust on the pie, crimp and bake.

The Eagles just happened to stomp the Cowboys the Sunday I made this... he, he.
I might have to make a pie every week for the rest of the season!

Have a happy day:@)

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Full Plate Thursday
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Happy November!

2011-11-01T19:03:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone! Here's a little ode to a big chore in my corner of the world! I need to hire this pooch:@)

Notice all the pretty leaves,
Obligingly roll up my sleeves.
Very carefully rake the yard,
Every leaf, the work is hard.
Maybe soon I'll get a blower,
But today I'll use my mower.
Every year it is the same,
Raking Queen, that is my name!

Have a happy day:@)

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs!

2011-10-31T06:50:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone! This week for my Personal PIGskin Challenge burgers are always fun and if you're not grilling out, how about some Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs. Oh yea, you will be popular!

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs from Stolen Moments Cooking
1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 C oats or breadcrumbs-I used oats
1 egg
1/3 C ketchup
2 Tblsp mustard
1/2 each tsp paprika, garlic powder, Italian Seasoning, pepper
4 oz cheddar cheese cut into cubes, approx 1/2 " (or any cheese you like, ask the deli to slice it thick)
1/2 lb bacon, cooked crispy and broken into bigger 1/2"-ish pieces
Mix everything except cheese and bacon.
Using 1 Tblsp mix, roll into ball, flatten it out in the palm of your hand. Add a cube of cheese and a few pieces of bacon. Carefully bring the sides of the meatball up to cover the cheese and bacon. Roll till round and smooth. Technique here.
After all meatballs are made, stick any leftover bacon onto the top of the meatballs.
Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

Notes:

Maybe it's that Philly thing... but I lost my patience for trying to wrap the meat around the cheese and bacon after a while. I tried crumbling the left over bacon to the size of bacon bits and just adding it to the ground beef. I'm going to be honest and say you can really taste the bacon on the ones with the bigger pieces in the middle of the meatball, it gets lost on the bacon bits meatballs.
Think of these as itty-bitty burgers folks, if you have favorite burger seasonings, use them. I'd add a healthy amount of Montreal Steak Seasoning the next time instead of the spices listed.
Load up on dips-ketchup, mustard, BBQ Sauce, Mayo Dipping Sauce, whatever your crowd likes! While I didn't show it, pickles are always a good thing too.
You'll get approximately 42 meatballs.

Have a happy day:@)

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Earl's Halloween Costume...

2011-10-30T07:46:00.003-04:00

He's a snowball!

Forget frost on the pumpkin... Crazy weather here in Philly, it snowed all day yesterday!

But it was cozy inside.

Happy Halloween Everyone:@)

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Seasonal Sunday

My Bloggy Mojo...

2011-10-27T19:34:00.000-04:00

Still looking guys!

Love ya, hope to be back soon:@)

Halloween A to Z

2011-10-25T18:57:00.004-04:00

I think this A to Z idea is fun! Here are the first things that pop to my mind for Halloween...

A-Apples, preferably coated in caramel, chocolate and nuts.
B-Boggy Man, hope I never see him!
C-Cats, beautiful black ones. Bet you're surprised it wasn't Candy!
D-Dead... um, that's it.
E-Eerie, wispy, moonlit skies...
F-Frightful, I've been on a couple great hay rides:@)
G-Ghouls, seen on the above mentioned hay rides.
H-Halloween, a fun time to embrace your inner child.
I-Icky, gross, wet, slimy stuff (see H).
J-Just wanna fool my friends with this cool costume.
K-Kickin' great time at the bon fire!
L-Lots of candy for you and me.
M-Martha gets a little too gross for me at Halloween.
N-Nice night for make believe.
O-Owls are so cute!
P-Pretend you don't know who the kids are.
Q-Quit being a stick in the mud and have some fun!
R-Rats, but only the little rubber ones:@)
S-Skeletons run wild.
T-Tricks aren't as fun as treats!
U-Umbrellas would be such a downer for trick or treating.
V-Violins provide some pretty spooky music.
W-What will you dress up as?
X-Xactly who thought of the letter X anyway?
Y-You getting into the spirit of it yet?
Z-Zero in on the Snickers Bars before the kids do!

Have a happy day:@)

Red Cocktail Sauce for Meatballs

2011-10-23T16:53:00.008-04:00

This week for my Personal PIGskin Challenge I picked a sauce recipe from "back in the day" and I'm using frozen meatballs. This tangy, yet a little sweet, sauce is an old time favorite of...

um... everyone apparently:@)

Red Cocktail Sauce for Meatballs

1/3 C onion, chopped fine
1/3 C green pepper, chopped fine
1 Can Campbell's Tomato Soup
2 Tblsp brown sugar
4 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 Tblsp prepared yellow mustard
-Saute the onion and pepper lightly until clear but not over done.
-Add the rest and mix well and simmer before adding meatballs.
-Makes enough sauce for one pound of meatballs.

Have a happy day:@)

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Randomness...

2011-10-22T17:18:00.006-04:00

Hey everyone! Seems I'm suffering from a bout of Blogger's Block that's compounded by the things I've tried to do not working out. Don't you hate it when that happens?!?!

Even he's a critic...

Had high hopes to post a cute Halloween cake today... ain't happening. I'll just say I have the utmost admiration for folks that have the patience and skill to artistically decorate cakes and cookies.

I'm gathering mini ornaments for my small kitchen Christmas tree and found these cute glass Hersey Kisses today at HomeGoods. They're about 1 1/2". True Confession Time: I'm a bit of an ornament addict... I tell my sons the ornaments are their inheritance:@) Yep, they're thrilled.

We're at that time of year where natural day light is at a premium. Most days I'm at work during those hours, I also have a point and shoot camera... What do you do to help make your pictures the best you can? Do you have a light box (did you make it?), an extra lamp, do you point it at the ceiling? Any ideas? Just curious.

How's the weather where you are? It has been amazing here in Philly yesterday and today. High of 60, lows in the 40's perfect for haunted hay rides and bon fires. Hope Fall is treating you well!

Have a happy day:@)

Snickerdoodles!

2011-10-19T19:32:00.007-04:00

Hey everyone! Snickerdoodles are an all time favorite, great cookie. To make them festive simply roll them in cinnamon and colored sugar to match any holiday! I've made red and green many years for Christmas, how about orange and green for Halloween...

And we all know that a balanced diet is a cookie in each hand!

This recipe is from Allrecipes and it's new to me. I think it's tastier than the one I've used before. It also has 3,060 reviews for 4.5 stars. They are sweet, crunchy and a bit chewy all at the same time. And in case anyone is wondering, I did roll one in little orange and black nonpareils... yea, don't do that. It's better to use sugar:@) The cute Fitz and Floyd plate came from Marshalls many years ago.

Mrs. Sigg's Snickerdoodles
1/2 C butter, softened
1/2 C shortening
1 1/2 C sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
2 3/4 C flour
2 tsp cream of tarter
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
for rolling:
2 Tblsp sugar
2 tsp cinnamon

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Cream butter, shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla.
Mix in the dry.
Shape dough by spoonful into balls.
Mix sugar and cinnamon, roll balls in mixture.
Place 2" apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake 8-10 minutes, until set but not too hard.
Remove from sheet to cool right away.

Have a happy day:@)

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Halloween T's for Tots!

2011-10-18T05:37:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! Ok, how stinkin' (pun totally intended) cute is this first onesie!

I think my 28 year old would like the zombie one himself!

Renuzit Fresh Accents Holiday Scent winners are:

3-Char

14-Cathy

39-Marybeth

I'll e-mail you for your address.

Thanks for playing along everyone!

Have a happy day:@)

Pork Meatballs with Lemon Thyme Gravy

2011-10-16T18:22:00.002-04:00

I just had to get the pig involved in my PIGskin Challenge, so this week I used pork and lemon sounded great! The original recipe can be found HERE. I did change it up a bit so I just typed my version below.

Thoughts:
These meatballs are wonderful! Are they football food? Well, I don't know your crowd... but I'm guessing that these would be better for a week day dinner instead of Sunday munchies. How to serve? May I suggest over spaghetti (add some frozen peas to the water the last couple minutes it cooks). Maybe stir in a tablespoon or so of butter to the warm sauce-Oh Momma!

Pork Meatballs
1 lb ground pork (with fat)
1/4 C fresh breadcrumbs
1/2 small onion, grated
1 egg
1/4 C Parmesan cheese
2 tsp dried sage, rub it between your fingers as you add it
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (approx 1/3 tsp dry)
1/8 tsp cayenne

Mix all, add some more breadcrumbs if too wet. This is a soft mix.
Using 1 Tblsp of mix, form meatballs, you'll get approx 30.
Brown all sides in olive oil, reduce heat add lid and slowly cook until no longer pink-approx 12-15 minutes.
Remove from pan.

Lemon Thyme Gravy
1 1/2 C chicken stock or 1 1/2 C water and 1 1/2 tsp Better Than Bouillon
Fresh ground pepper
Juice of 2 lemons
1 Tblsp fresh Thyme leaves
1 Tblsp cornstarch
Zest of one lemon (two lemons if you really like things lemony)
Thyme for garnish

Pour excess olive oil out of the pan.
Add stock or water/bouillon, deglaze pan. Add in some pepper and cook for about 15 minutes then add lemon juice and thyme.
Mix a very small amount of water (maybe 1 Tblsp) with cornstarch, just enough to be able to pour the cornstarch into the pan. Cook till it thickens.
Check for seasonings, if you used the stock it may need some salt.
Return meatballs to pan and add lemon zest.
Heat through and serve.

Have a happy day:@)
Enter my Renuzit Holiday Scent Air Freshener Give-Away HERE!

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On The Menu Monday

Whoooo You Lookin' At?

2011-10-15T12:04:00.011-04:00

Hey everyone, how's this for thinking outside the hog! Love my little pig dip dish but I also saw something else... a cute owl for Halloween! Couldn't wait to try this out as a classic cheese ball.

Garnishments are sliced almonds, carrots and olives for eyes. If you don't have a cool pig dish (doesn't everyone???), simply chill the cheese mixture, place on some plastic wrap/wax paper, shape it into a ball, then roll in chopped nuts. I made approx 1/3 of the recipe for this dish.

Since Earl is home from his adventure (details here), and his *cough* cell phone's been taken away...

he's back to helping in the kitchen. Seems he's traded in his chef hat for another one though...

Party Cheese Ball from Kraft
2 (8oz) packs of cream cheese, room temp
8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
1 Tblsp finely diced onion
1 Tblsp finely diced red bell pepper
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp lemon juice
Dash of cayenne pepper
1 Cup toasted, chopped pecans

Mix the two cheeses well, stir in the rest.
Chill several hours, shape into a ball and roll in nuts.
Serve with crackers.

Have a happy day:@)

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(Very Good) Quick Yeast Rolls

2011-10-14T06:00:00.012-04:00

Hey everyone! I've mentioned that I'm on a mission to find homemade breads that are quick, easy and tasty, these rolls from Allrecipes fit the bill! They take about one hour and 10 minutes from start to finish.

Soft, fluffy, fragrant and yummy! My sons loved these rolls-very high praise indeed:@)

Quick Yeast Rolls
2 Tblsp shortening
3 Tblsp sugar
1 C hot water (I used hot tap water)
1 (.25oz) envelope yeast or 2 1/4 tsp yeast
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp salt
2 1/4 C A/P flour

Preheat oven to 425 degrees and grease 8 muffin cups.
In large bowl mix shortening, sugar and water.
Cool to lukewarm and add yeast.
Add the rest, mix well.
Let rise in bowl until double in size (approx 25 minutes).
Divide into muffin tin and allow to rise until double in size again.
Bake 10 minutes or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Notes:

I subbed one cup of King Arthur Whole Wheat Flour.
All of the shortening did not melt completely, no problem.
I used my Kitchen Aid with the regular paddle.
This is a wet, sticky dough. I added it to the muffin pan with a spoon, pushing it off the spoon with my finger.
My boys have asked me to make these again!

Here's the yeast I buy, which ever one is cheaper.

Have a happy day:@)

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Foodie Friday

Pumpkin Beer Review

2011-10-13T06:46:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone! When it comes to seasonal brews, pumpkin is the king! With Halloween and Thanksgiving coming up I thought it might be fun to taste a few different brands. Oh the things I do for this blog:@) Perhaps my unbiased reviews will help you decide which one you might like to serve or take to a party!

The cast of characters:

Shock Top: Pumpkin Wheat

A cloudy ale the color of pressed apple cider. Slightly sweet with the aroma of honey and light cinnamon. Brewed with pumpkin, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves-I think I taste ginger...

This is a wonderful beer that would be great for sipping and perfect with a pork dinner!

Tommyknocker: Small Batch Pumpkin Harvest Ale

A very dark Ale, almost like a stout. They say it's made with pumpkin and a touch of molasses and spice.

I can taste/smell the molasses, it almost smells a little smoky too, but I can't pick out any spices.

While I don't think it's seasonal, boy this is good! If you like darker, heartier beers this one's fun to try.

Blue Point Brewing Company: Pumpkin Ale

A very pretty orange/amber colored ale.

The bottle says it's a malt beverage brewed with pumpkin and spices.

This has a very faint scent of fruit and cinnamon and is better at room temp.

Not sweet but easy to drink, it also has a light spice aftertaste.

Harpoon Brewery: Pumpkin UFO-Unfiltered Pumpkin Ale

Another pretty orange/amber colored ale. Brewed with pumpkin and spices with spices added.

This doesn't have any noticeable seasonal scent/flavor but I will say the word "caramel" did pop to my mind. It's a touch sweeter than the one above and has a slight cinnamon aftertaste. Serve cool not cold.

Smuttynose Brewing Co: Pumpkin Ale

A cloudy, orange ale. They say it's an ale brewed with pumpkin puree and spices.
While it has a strong ale flavor, I don't pick up the pumpkin or spices. It's just a touch bitter too, which is funny because the very light honey scent would lead you to believe it would be sweeter.

Not a fun beer or one I'd try again.

Six Point Craft Ales: Autumnation

An amber color slightly clearer and lighter than the other ales. My initial thought from both scent and taste is "bitter". They say it's made with ginger, spice, pumpkin and fresh-harvested wet hops.

The predominant scent and flavor to me is grapefruit???

I didn't take one sip without making a face, this is not a pleasant beer.
Of course that's my opinion, my son was surprised to hear this, he likes it.

So there you have it folks, if I wanted to showcase a pumpkin seasonal beer for a party (of the six shown) I'd pick Shock Top Pumpkin Wheat. It's not only easy to drink and you can taste the spices, but the bottle gives you instructions on how to pour it! Pour all but 1/2" into a glass, give the bottle a swirl and pour in the rest to release the spice aroma. It's just a fun beer!

Samples were provided by (my son:@) and:
The Bottle Shop
1837 East Passyunk Ave in South Philly.
If you're in the area, please stop by this female owned start-up business for your own tasting.
Have a happy day!

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Foodie Friday

Getting To Know Me From A to Z

2011-10-12T19:22:00.013-04:00

Hey everyone! First and most importantly, Earl is home! I heard a big splash in the driveway during this rain storm tonight, when I looked out the door there he was wishing he had his wet weather gear! Thanks for your support of my little porker:@)

I think this is the cutest idea, I first saw it on Faithfulness Farm but it started at AKAGramma. I wanted to play along. Simply give an answer to the letters... No big linky party, it's just for fun!

A. Apples or oranges?: Love them both... apples make better pies!
B. Bed: Full size, love my Northern Nights Chunky Flannel sheets from QVC.
C. Chore you hate: Mowing the lawn... one day I hope to have a lawn boy:@)
D. Dog: Had the sweetest beagle, nicknamed The Brat-it fit!
E. Essential start to your day: Coffee, the computer, then a shower.
F. Favorite Color: Most fond of yellow, red and orange.
G. Gold or Silver: Gold.
H. Height: Little under 5' 2", I'm a runt.
I. Instruments you play: I don't play any but love music. The piano would be my choice.
J. Job You Most Liked: Working at a Nursery (selling trees, poinsettias) over the holidays!
K. Kids: Two grown sons.
L. Live in: North of Philly!
M. Make of Car: Ford
N. Nicknames: Fabby calls me Piggy, always cracks me up:@)
O. Overnight Hospital Stays: C-Sections.
P. Pet Peeves: People that don't do what they say they're going to.
Q. Quote from a movie: “What we have here is a failure to communicate”
R. Right or Left Handed: Right
S. Scary Movies-yes or no: No!
T. T.V. Shows: Very little TV, but I only watch sports or Food Network.
U. Underware: You betcha!
V. Vegetable You Hate: I don't want to say hate (so harsh) but I know I wasn't fond of broccoli rabe when I tried it. Of course, that could just be because I didn't prepare it right...
W. What makes you run late: Nothing, just can't do it, gotta be on time.
X. X-Rays: Not many.
Y. Yummy Food That You Make: I like to bake and make a few comfort foods.
Z. Zoo Animal: Funny but I don't have fond memories of the zoo... I only remember that I kept getting sneezed on by the animals! I'll stick to pigs:@)

Have a happy day!

Fall Vignette

2011-10-11T19:22:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone! Ma brought me some pretty white mums from her yard-thanks Ma! We've all seen a seasonal pot of mums decorating an outdoor chair, I thought it might be cute to make a vignette playing with that theme.

Only difference is, my chair is a 5" votive holder.

And here are the same mums all sugared up on Halloween candy!

Have a happy day:@)

Enter my Renuzit Holiday Scent Air Freshener Give-Away HERE!

Renuzit Holiday Scents Give-Away!

2011-10-10T20:00:00.007-04:00

Give-Away now closed, the winners were 3, 14 and 39. Thanks everyone!

Hey everyone! It's never too early for the holidays when there's a give-away involved! Right? Right:@)
We all like for our home to smell fresh and welcoming. Renuzit Fresh Accents has two beautiful new air fresheners this season and they're giving three folks their choice of one free!

Stylish two-sided snowflake design.
Freshens up to 30 days.
No plugs, batteries or flames-love that!

Festive Snow (green): A nice light evergreen scent.
Winter Berry (red): A sweet red berry scent.

To enter the give-away simply leave a comment.

Winners will be determined by random.org on October 18th and I will mail you a coupon.

Good luck and have a happy day:@)

I am a Purex Insider. While I do receive complimentary sample products from the Purex brand,

my opinions are my own.

Meatballs for Halloween???

2011-10-09T19:58:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone! Mexican Surprise Meatballs, how could I not make these for my PIGskin Challenge! Even though it says Mexican, there are no hot peppers or spices in the meatballs. You can add heat by using a hot Picante Sauce or Salsa if you'd like.

What's the surprise... an olive in the center of each meatball!

Now, as we're getting close to Halloween,

I know there are lots of folks that like to tease the kids... do these remind you of anything?

I'm just sayin'...

Mexican Surprise Party Meatballs from Campbell's Kitchen

2 slices white bread, torn into bits
1/2 C milk
2lb ground beef
2 eggs
1/4 C onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 C parsley, finely chopped
1/2 tsp black pepper
50 small pimento stuffed Spanish olives
2 jars (16 oz each) Pace Picante Sauce

Place bread and milk in bowl, let bread absorb milk. Add beef, eggs, onion, garlic, parsley and pepper.
Mix and form into 50 1" meatballs. Place an olive in the center of each meatball. Put meatballs into 3 quart shallow baking dish.
Bake 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until cooked.
Put meatballs in 6 quart stock pot, add Picante Sauce and heat through.

Notes:

I grated the garlic, didn't want biting into a chunk of that to be my "surprise".
This is a wet mix, I only added a splash of milk and they flattened out on the bottom. I wouldn't add all of the milk.
Even though the recipe does not call for salt, I think it needs some.
Using 1 Tblsp of meat, roll into a rough ball, indent it with your thumb, add the olive, then gently bring the meat closed around it. Then carefully roll it between your hands to make it round. Once you make one or two it goes fast. You could have this whole batch rolled in about 30 minutes or less.
I used a salsa I had on hand.
This is an easy recipe to cut in half or even quarter. 1/4 batch made 13 meatballs.
I like these and think they're different, the reviews are very good. I'd like to try them one more time adding a little salt to see if they're something I'd say might become a signature dish for parties.

Have fun:@)

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On The Menu Monday
Terrorific Tuesday

Candy Corn Cake

2011-10-08T16:44:00.017-04:00

Hey everyone! It's what's inside that makes this cake special! You place a simply decorated cake on the table, but when you cut into it, the Halloween magic begins!

Gorgeous colors mimic the candy corn, I used Wilton Icing Colors Gel.

I used a checker board cake pan. The idea for the cake came from Wilton's site,

this is how their's looked, instructions here:

I think using yellow and orange Food Coloring Sprays for the icing coloring would be adorable too.

Have a happy day:@)

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FallOWeen
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Wickedly Creative Halloween Ideas Linky Party
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Friday Food

Join the 'Free Earl' Brigade!

2011-10-07T20:48:00.006-04:00

Hey everyone have you heard the news? The wily witches from Cuisine Kathleen's blog have swooped down and pignapped our favorite party animal Earl! Details HERE. I told him not to wear the witches hat,

it might upset someone...

But noooo, he had to have some fun.

The cackle came from in the skies,

I said "quick, here's a disguise".

It didn't work, next thing I knew,

My Earl was gone, so sad, boo hoo:@(

I'm here to ask Bloggy Buddies to unite,

Let's not lose Earl with out a fight!

FREE EARL!!!

Oatmeal Cookies With Raisinets

2011-10-07T06:11:00.003-04:00

I've been thinking about making cookies with Raisinets for a long time... Plan A was to make a batch of Chocolate Chip Cookie dough and just sub the Raisinets for the chips, in looking at recipes that is indeed an option. But then I saw Oatmeal Cookies and just had to give them a try, 'cause you know, the oatmeal makes them healthy... right? Right:@)

I thought they were good and something a little different.
PS-Our friends at Nestle saw this post (such a small world:@) and wanted me to mention that there are recipes and a $1 coupon at facebook.com/raisinets. So stop by if you'd like!

Oatmeal Cookies with Raisinets
1/2 C butter, softened
3/4 C brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 egg
1 C A/P flour
1 C oatmeal (not instant)
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt-I added less
1 (7oz) package Raisinets
1/2 C walnuts, chopped

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Cream the butter, brown sugar and vanilla. Add egg, mix well.
Add flour, oatmeal, baking soda and salt, mix well.
Stir the Raisinets and walnuts in by hand.
Drop by rounded Tblsp onto ungreased cookie sheets and bake for approx 10-12 minutes.
Let sit on cookie sheet for two minutes before removing to cooling rack.
Makes 2 dozen cookies.

Have a happy day:@)

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Porcine Pumpkin!

2011-10-06T06:00:00.055-04:00

Hey everyone! I think I could have some fun with these perky piggy props this Halloween:@)

Pumpkins grow until Fall's fog,
they're fat and round like a hog.
Grim or happy should they be?
If you leave it up to me...
Add some piggy eyes and nose,
you'll be tickled to your toes!

Have a happy day!

Mice In The Kitchen!

2011-10-04T19:35:00.006-04:00

Hey everyone! I shared these cute little candy mice last Halloween but wanted to repost them in case someone hasn't seen them. They are simply melted chocolate chips, a maraschino cherry, Hershey Kiss and almond slivers. I used a dab of black food coloring gel for the eyes.

I have to laugh at the difference between my sons, I had a cupcake on each plate...

The oldest sat down and moved the cupcake off to the side till after dinner.

The youngest sat down and immediately popped the mouse into his mouth, took a couple bites then

(with a mouth full) asked "it's ok to eat it right???"

I've seen directions for these many places on the internet:

1. Melt chocolate chips.

2. Dip the cherry and place on wax paper.

3. Attach the kiss. Hold it in place for a few seconds till it "sets".

4. Add the almonds and let it dry.

5. Add the eyes with a toothpick. (could use a little melted white chocolate for eyes too)

Folks usually make them at Christmas, but I think they're great for Halloween too!

Have a happy day:@)

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It's A Keeper Thursday
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Buffalo Chicken Meatballs!

2011-10-03T05:14:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone, I couldn't wait to try these for my PIGskin Challenge! I am a huge wing fan -and the Eagles play Buffalo this weekend- so this recipe from Rachael Ray seemed like a perfect match.

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Ok, in retrospect there are so many things I'd like to do differently with this pic...

but I, um... ate the meatballs. So just think of this as a Foodie bad hair day:@)

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
1 lb ground white meat chicken
1/2 small onion, grated
2 cloves garlic, grated
1/2 C parsley, chopped*
S&P
EVOO for drizzling
2 Tblsp butter
1/2 C hot sauce
3 scallions, for garnish-I didn't use these
Store bought bleu cheese dressing for dipping
celery sticks
carrot sticks

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Mix the chicken, onion, garlic, parsley and S&P to taste.
Drizzle with EVOO, put in oven till golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
In large skillet, melt butter, mix in hot sauce. Coat meatballs in sauce.
Serve with bleu cheese dressing, carrots and celery. Don't forget the toothpicks:@)

Notes:

As a lover of hot sauce-these are great. As a lover of wings-it's hard to beat wings. Having said that, if I was at a party and these meatballs were out and there were no wings... I would be more than happy to munch on them all night!
Rachael says you should get 16, using 1 Tblsp of mix I got 20.
*I think the amount of parsley called for is over estimated, just grab a big healthy pinch and add it. (If you watch RR's video, you'll see that's all she does too)
I needed to cook the meatballs longer, maybe 16-18 minutes.
Full disclosure, I forgot to drizzle the EVOO.
Do take a few minutes to cook the sauce down, it will get thicker and stick better.
The big plus to the meatballs over wings is they're easier to eat, a lot less messy.
Don't hesitate to give these a try folks, they just might be the hit of the party!

Have a happy day:@)

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Happy October!

2011-10-01T13:00:00.009-04:00

I had a neighbor that always told me marigolds excel in the Fall and for the way they've filled out beautifully in the last few weeks, I'd have to agree. Here Pinky is sporting some of Fall's finest!

Over cast skies and misty morns,

Crackling fires and cider warms.

Twilight brings an eerie feel,

Orange leaves crunch beneath the heel.

Bats fly high all through the night,

Everyone shivers at that sight.

Revel in October's magic:@)

Have a happy day!

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Seasonal Sunday
Fresh Cut Friday

Chocolate Chip Muffins!

2011-09-29T07:23:00.004-04:00

Otherwise known as, how to kiss up to your new boss! I've had this recipe for years and do really enjoy these muffins. Even though it calls for sugar and chocolate chips (I use semi-sweet) it's not overly sweet. Actually, I really like adding sanding sugar to the top before baking but forgot that this morning.

Thanks for all of your kind words, things seem to be going well at my new job:@)

Chocolate Chip Muffins
2 C flour
1/3 C brown sugar
1/3 C sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2/3 C milk
1/2 C melted butter, cooled
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp vanilla
chocolate chips, how ever many you'd like
nuts if desired

Preheat oven to 400 degrees
Mix dry, mix wet in separate bowl and add to dry. Stir till just combined.
Add chips, fill cupcake papers and sprinkle with sanding sugar if using.
Bake 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and done.

Have a happy day!

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Sweets for Saturday

New beginnings!

2011-09-26T19:04:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! I wanted to mention that I started a new full time job today-Woo Hoo! So while I'll still be around, it just won't be as much as before. Here's a little silliness to tide you over...

Have a happy day:@)

Crab Meatballs!

2011-09-25T06:22:00.004-04:00

Hey Y'All! That's right, this week for my PIGskin Challenge I picked a Paula Deen recipe for my Crab Meatballs and it was very good! This recipe highlights the crab by not adding too many other flavors. And how great are these fun shell toothpicks! They were sent to me by Bloggy Buddy La at A Musing Potpourri, if you haven't stopped by recently please do to say hi-thanks La!

And here's another one of Earl's pearls of wisdom:

Crab Balls
2 slices of bread, crust removed and processed into crumbs
1/3 C heavy cream
1 Tblsp mayonnaise
1 Tblsp Worcestershire sauce
1 Tblsp parsley, finely chopped
1 tsp House Seasoning
1 tsp seasoned salt
1 egg, beaten
1 lb lump crab meat, picked clean of any shells
In a deep pot, preheat oil to 365 degrees. Paula uses peanut oil, I just used vegetable oil.
In large bowl, moisten bread crumbs with cream. Add the rest, shape into balls about the size of a walnut. Fry until brown, approx 5 minutes (or less!).
You can click HERE for Paula's Tartar Sauce recipe and the House Seasoning Recipe.

Notes:

It's probably best to use a deep fryer, although I did use about 1/2" of oil in a pan (turning them) with no problem. They do cook up fast (2-3 minutes), you have to keep an eye on them.
You should get about 24 meatballs using 1 Tblsp of mix.
Personally, I'll use a heaping tsp of Old Bay instead of the House Seasoning and Seasoned Salt next time, only because I think that's the flavor I'm used to in seafood.
Over all, I liked them and would make them again and I'm sure they'd go over well at any gathering. They stayed on the toothpick nicely too:@)

Have a happy day!

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On The Menu Monday
Foodie Friday

Light Oat Bread

2011-09-24T06:24:00.000-04:00

It's officially Fall-so it's time to turn on the oven! My latest experiment in bread making was a Light Oat Bread. I questioned that this recipe called for such a small amount of yeast, only 1 1/2 tsp, but it had very good reviews so I thought I'd give it a try. I also liked that folks were referring to this as "sandwich bread".

Notes:

I added the water, yeast and sugar to the pan first and let them sit while I got everything else out.
Check on the dough for the first 10 minutes, it needs to be clearing the walls of the bread machine and start to look dry (not sticky). Add more flour, a very little at a time, if you need to.
I chose to use the bread machine for mixing and the first rise only (dough cycle), took it out at that point and flattened it into a rectangle (on floured surface) about as wide as my bread pan, rolled it up, tucked the ends under and let it rise in the bread pan until it crested the top of the pan by about 1"-approx 25 minutes. I baked it at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
If you don't have a bread machine it can easily be made by hand.
As you can see, the oats soften and disappear into the bread. I buttered the top and added some oats before baking, but truthfully, they're just falling off all over the place. I won't add them again.
I subbed 1/2 C whole wheat flour for this loaf and love that brown sugar is less expensive than honey.
I find this to be a light, airy bread. I don't think the kids (or hubby) would have any problem eating it.
This has replaced my half bagel as my favorite breakfast food. I cut a thick (5/8") slice, toast it and slather with peanut butter-very good!
This recipe has well over 500 positive reviews, with many variations. I'm happy to have found it.

Light Oat Bread

1 1/4 C warm water

2 Tblsp margarine-I used butter

1 tsp salt

3 C A/P flour-it's ok to sub up to half with any other flour-wheat, rye, etc. keep recipe at 3 cups

1/2 C rolled oats

2 Tblsp brown sugar

1 1/2 tsp yeast

Add all to bread machine in order recommended by your machine's manufacturer. Set to regular light setting.

Have a happy day:@)

Pig Alert!

2011-09-23T06:00:00.007-04:00

Hey everyone! How about some fun signs... I was tickled to find all of these on Amazon.com:

and I would have liked this one for my boys room when they were teenagers...

Have a happy day:@)

Pumpkin Spritz Cookies

2011-09-22T09:03:00.027-04:00

Hey everyone! The title of this post really should be A Quick Fix For Spritz Cookies That Won't Stick! I was excited to see a pumpkin recipe for spritz because Ma gave me a plate that makes pumpkin shaped cookies-thanks Ma! Well, try as I may... I couldn't get these cookies to stick to the cookie sheets.

So, on to Plan B...

If you can't get your dough to stick to the cookie sheets simply put an icing tip into a disposable icing bag and pipe the cookies onto the cookie sheet. Wa-La! Not what I had planned, but I have pumpkin cookies. I used Wilton star tip 21 for the pumpkin and writing tip 7 for the stem. I do suggest the sturdier icing bag instead of a Ziplock because this is a thicker dough.

I'm going to share the recipe, as it worked for some folks. Why didn't mine work out? Don't know, it's rainy, sometimes spritz cookies are finicky. I still love them though! As for this particular recipe, I think it needs a little more sugar. It's a nice seasonal, spiced cookie. One last note, I bake spritz on air sheets at 375, they took about 13 minutes.

Pumpkin Spritz Cookies
1 C butter, room temp
1/2 C sugar-I suggest more
1 1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/3 C pumpkin
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
2 3/4 C A/P flour
3/4 tsp baking powder
Extra cinnamon and sugar for decoration.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Cream butter and sugar. Add spices, egg and vanilla, mix well.
Add flour and baking powder, mix well.
Load press, press out cookies, sprinkle with sugar or decorations.
Bake for 6-8 minutes. Let cool on cookie sheet for 5 minutes, remove to rack.

Have a happy day:@)

Side Note: After over 25 years of service my trusty metal Mirro cookie press died. I never thought that would happen, I'm bummed. I did save the plates in case I could use them on other presses. If anyone knows of an old metal Mirro for cheap, please let me know.

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Foodie Friday

Fall Craft Challenge

Halloween Tassels-Kids Craft/Party Idea

2011-09-20T12:17:00.015-04:00

I love tassels and they could be a fun and fairly inexpensive craft activity for a child's Halloween Party (using ribbons, trims, etc. you already have on hand). Even the ribbon I bought came from the $1 bin.

These cute plastic treat containers can be pumpkins, skulls, anything that's on the market. I used little wooden candle holders from the craft store (5/8" hole) to glue the ribbon on to. You turn them upside down (opening on the bottom) and this gives you a flat surface to glue onto the bottom of the pumpkin.

Begin by gluing your string of pearls, or beads, etc. to the inside of the candle holder, this will be your longest embellishment. I might even do this step ahead of time if the kids are younger.

Note: I used a hot glue gun. I'm sure there has to be some fast drying product out there now that's safe for kids to use, if someone would leave a comment recommending one I'd appreciate it.

I don't suggest sequins if using hot glue, the strings won't come off. Found that out the hard way...

Then begin gluing strips of ribbon all around the outside of the candle holder. You may want to cut all of your ribbon strips ahead of time and have little piles of them for each child.

Keep doing that with at least 3-4 more different ribbons of varying widths. The idea is to center the new ribbon where the sides of the lower row of ribbon meet and move "up" the candle holder with each new addition. The holder will eventually be completely covered with ribbon.

Save a pretty thinner ribbon to make some loops for your last layer (or two). Glue the good side of the ribbon to the candle holder then bring the other end up and glue it to the top creating a loop.

Glue the candle holder to the bottom of the pumpkin.

The last step, and the one that might require the most help, is to add something all the way around where the candle holder meets the pumpkin, just to finish it off. Could be an embellishment or some more ribbon.

There you have it, a cute project and a decoration that parents could keep and bring out each year.

Tip: Stuff bubble wrap or cotton balls in the loops before storing to keep them round from year to year.

Have a happy day:@)

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Take A Look Tuesday
Tutorial Tuesday
My Tuesday 10
Fall Festival
It's A Keeper Thursday
The Pumpkin Parade
Fall Craft Challenge
Terrorific Tuesday
Harvest Party

Halloween Brownies

2011-09-19T08:03:00.016-04:00

I heard "bet this had something to do with the blog"... as I saw a couple raised eyebrows studying the brownies that had color *gasp* on them. Welcome to Sunday dinner with my sons...

I wanted to see if the cream cheese filling color would hold up through baking and was pleased with the results. Now I wish I had made some of them purple too. I used Wilton Icing Colors Gel. After they're out of the oven and have cooled quite a bit you can add any candy topper you'd like, I used a chocolate drop.

I used my brownie pan, now you know I love my kitchen toys but I'll be honest and say this is one I wouldn't buy again. You need to use too much spray and it's a pain to wash by hand. Just this reporter's opinion. Tip: A toothbrush helps clean all of those right angles.

For the brownies just mix up one box of your favorite brand and pour it into whatever pan you're using.

Cream Cheese Filling
1 C powdered sugar
4 oz cream cheese
food coloring gel
-Mix the first two till smooth, separate into bowls and make each one the color you'd like.
-Put a teaspoon full (a real teaspoon not a measuring tsp) in the center of each brownie and bake as directed.

Notes:

My brownie pan makes 18 brownies, I split this filling between two bowls and used almost all of both colors on six brownies each. I left six plain knowing they'd be the ones my boys reached for:@) I think you could easily make this amount of filling work for 18 brownies.
They will puff up, but as the brownies cool they'll settle down.
This is a cream cheese filling and not cheese cake filling, there is no egg. I don't know if cheese cake filling works, but don't see why it wouldn't.

Have a happy day:@)

I'm joining:
Amaze Me Monday
Fall Festival
Foodie Friday

Aiming for Thanksgiving Meatballs

2011-09-18T06:14:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! This week for my PIGskin Challenge I was dying to try some turkey meatballs hoping they'd remind me of Thanksgiving dinner. I loaded these up with celery, onion and Bell's Seasoning...

$64,000 Question:

Can anyone tell me why ground turkey just isn't the same as whole turkey?

While they didn't remind me of Thanksgiving they are very good,

I wouldn't hesitate to make these again and serve them over rice for dinner!

One last artsy pic:

thanks for humoring me, you guys are the best:@)

Turkey Meatballs
1 lb ground turkey
1/2 C fresh breadcrumbs
1/4 C onion, finely diced
1/2 C celery, finely diced
1 1/2 tsp Bells Seasoning, or other poultry seasoning
1 tsp dried parsley
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 egg
1 Tblsp olive oil
2 Tblsp water
1 can turkey gravy

Mix everything except the last three ingredients. This will be very sticky.
Chill for 20 minutes in the freezer.
Pour some flour into a bowl, coat hands with flour and start rolling meatballs. I dropped the meat in my hand and sprinkled some flour over each meatball before I rolled it. The meat is still soft, it will be sticky.
Heat a skillet to medium, add olive oil and begin browning the meatballs. Go slowly, it will take maybe 15 minutes to brown them.
Once browned remove any oil that may be in the pan (I really didn't have any).
Add the water and immediately cover with a lid. Let the meatballs steam for 10 minutes while occasionally shaking the pan.
Add gravy, doctor it up as you'd like (I added a little more Bells Seasoning, a bit of turkey base and some black pepper), heat through while scraping the bits off the bottom of the pan.

Have a happy day!

Saturday Centus!

2011-09-17T07:40:00.016-04:00

So this week for Saturday Centus we have to re-write Twinkle Twinkle Little Star to the theme of In The Autumn. And we only have 32 words to do it including the prompt of In The Autumn... piece of cake:@)

In The Autumn
In the autumn leaves turn gold,

weather's brisk, bonfires bold.

Pumpkins, mums and apple pie,

food so good you'll wanna cry.
In the autumn we are told,
Dress warmly, it's getting cold.

Have a happy day!

Bacon Nut Brittle!

2011-09-16T11:39:00.014-04:00

Hey everyone! I don't usually associate candy and football, but here's one that will go over big-

Bacon Nut Brittle! Oh yea, salty, sweet, smoky bacon and nuts, what's not to love!

Of course my Sous Chef Earl was a little leery about the choice of ingredients in this recipe...

he said he'd help, but didn't want anyone to know he was cooking bacon...

Very smooth, I'm sure you fooled everyone...

My friend sent me the Food Network Magazine that had a bunch of bacon recipes in it-thanks Carol! While I didn't have luck using their recipe, I'll still call that my inspiration. I found a lady making brittle on U-Tube HERE and used her method with great results! I seem to have better luck with the 'in the skillet-looking for a certain color'-method than the thermometer method for some reason. So here's what I did and I'll list Food Network's recipe in case anyone wants to try it.

Bacon Nut Brittle
1 C sugar
1/2 C Light Karo Syrup
1/4 C water
1 C nuts, toasted if raw (it's ok to add 1/2 C more)-I had cashews so that's what I used
5 pieces of bacon, cooked and crumbled (maybe a little more:@)
pinch of cayenne (optional)
pinch of cinnamon (optional-I'll leave this out next time)
1 tsp baking soda

Have the nuts, bacon, spices and baking soda in one bowl ready to add in.
Add sugar, Karo and water to a large skillet. Bring to a boil while stirring. Cook over medium/high heat until it's honey colored, about 15 minutes, stirring constantly. You will notice that the bubbles will get big and the longer it cooks they get smaller.
Tip: I'll drop just a little splatter of it on my stove, it cools and hardens quickly letting me know if it's ready or not.
Once it's a beautiful amber honey color and thick, remove from heat and immediately add the bacon, nuts, spices and baking soda.
Mix well and fast, pour out onto silicone mat or a well buttered cookie sheet, flatten a little to make it thinner.
Cool, break apart and enjoy!

Bacon Brittle-Food Network
Boil 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water in a saucepan, without stirring, until 340 degrees, 8-10 minutes. Stir in 1 cup peanuts, 5 slices crumbled cooked bacon, 1 Tblsp butter and a pinch each of cayenne and cinnamon. Spread on a greased baking sheet to harden.

Have a happy day:@)
I'm joining:
Foodie Friday
Friday Food
Sweets for Saturday

Off to the races...

2011-09-15T06:00:00.021-04:00

So... who's your money on???

Have a happy day:@)

Pumpkin Pound Cake(s)

2011-09-14T06:13:00.020-04:00

Well, it looks like I'm officially smitten with pumpkins this year! Ma's coming over for coffee and I just had to break out the 3D pan. I've had this great Pumpkin Pound Cake recipe so long I don't even know where I got it! It makes enough batter for two 9x5 loaf pans, I only made half a batch for this pumpkin cake.

I spent some time on-line and read that maple leaves are non-toxic to humans, so I decided to use them as a natural decoration. We don't plan on eating the leaves any way, at least not while there's cake around:@)

This is what the pumpkin cake pan looks like, it's about 6.5" across:

Pumpkin Pound Cake(s)

2 C brown sugar
2 C butter
4 C A/P flour
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp ginger
1 tsp nutmeg
6 eggs
1 (16oz) can pumpkin
Cream sugar and butter until fluffy.
Add the dry and mix well.
Pour into two 9x5 greased and floured loaf pans.
Bake in preheated 325 degree oven for approximately 70-75 minutes.
*My half batch, split between two pans, took approx 42 minutes.

Here are two optional glazes, either:
-2/3 C confectioners sugar and 1 Tblsp orange juice. Mix till smooth and drizzle on cold cake.
or:
-3/4 C confectioners sugar and 2 Tblsp sour cream. Mix till smooth and drizzle on cold cake.

Notes:

I used the sour cream glaze with a little orange and brown Wilton Icing Colors Gel. This is the first time I've tried this glaze, it's nice and thick and very good!
Pumpkin comes in 15 oz cans these days... oh well, what can you do?
About 15 oz pumpkin: If you measure one cup for any recipe, as I did for half of this one, you will be left with (2) 1/3 cups of pumpkin. 1/3 cup of pumpkin is a popular amount in recipes, so if you freeze it you'll have enough for two batches of something else. I freeze it in the measuring cup then pop the "cube" out and into a freezer bag.

Have a happy day!

I'm joining:
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Cast Party Wednesday
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Foodie Friday
Sweets for Saturday
Seasonal Sunday
Sweet Indulgences Sunday
On The Menu Monday
Falling for Crafts Challenge
Pumpkin Parade

Early Fall By The Creek

2011-09-13T16:02:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! It was a gorgeous afternoon so I took a walk down to the creek to look for signs of fall:

I'm sure the squirrels are excited!

There's a blush on the crab apples, and...

Berries

Some leaves are beginning to turn colors.

And of course it wouldn't be Fall without...

Ragweed.

That's what's happening North of Philly, hope it's beautiful where you are too:@)

Jack-O-Lantern Light Bulb Ornaments

2011-09-12T17:13:00.009-04:00

Hey everyone, gathering Halloween craft ideas yet? I have a 28" feather tree that gets decorated for the holidays/seasons. Here's a cute homemade Jack-O-Lantern ornament that's a good scale for smaller trees. You don't even have to dig out the Christmas lights for bulbs, the stores are usually selling Christmas things in October so you can pick them up fairly easily!

You'll need:

If you have green raffia, even better!

Holding the light bulb (whichever way is more comfortable) draw the face on with the Sharpie.

Let the ink dry, only takes a couple minutes.

Tie the raffia around the cap of the bulb. Make a long and short end, the short end should be 6-8".

Keeping the knot on the side of the face (think ear) pull the short end straight up.

Wrap the raffia around the cap a couple times, moving up and covering the short end as you do.

Keep the last wrap loose and tuck the end in the loop, like a slip knot.

Pull it tight, making sure it's on the other side of the face.

Pull both ends of the raffia straight up, if they've split apart and look sloppy give each string a twist.

Work with it until the pumpkin hangs straight and you are happy, then tie a knot in the raffia.

Notes:

These pictures were with the smaller bulb, it's much easier to work with the bigger C9 bulbs.
Raffia is slippery, it's a good idea to run some glue up the back securing the raffia to itself and the cap when done.
You can sub yarn or thin ribbon for the raffia.
You can always just simply wrap the raffia around the cap and tie it off. I stuck a Christmas ornament hook through the raffia in the bigger bulb, you can see that it leans... If you come up with an easier way to hang them kindly share in the comments in case it might help others:@)
Jane of Blondie's Journal suggested making a garland out of them, love that idea!
If you have any Halloween rub-offs with faces that might be another option.
If you have a brown Sharpie, it might be fun to make some vertical "ridges" in the pumpkin.
Older, beaten up bulbs would probably look pretty neat too.
These are obviously glass, while this is a silly fun project, it does require close supervision if kids are involved.
I suggest putting down some newspaper or something as a buffer over the table so that if one drops, it won't break. Or better yet, do this project sitting on the floor on a rug with kids.

Have fun:@)

I'm Joining:
Metamorphosis Monday
Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
A Round Tuit
Tutorial Tuesday
Take A Look Tuesday
The Fall Festival
It's A Keeper Thursday
This was featured on Totally Tutorials

Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs

2011-09-11T20:20:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone! My family is very fond of teriyaki, whether it's as a marinade or sauce. For my PIGskin Challenge this week I used two different recipes to make one yummy snack!

How about a fun Chicken Teriyaki Meatball!

These are very good and very addictive. I can really taste the fresh ginger, pressed garlic and sesame oil.
I highly recommend these meatballs!
Oh, and if you're not planning a party right now, they're great with rice and steamed broccoli for dinner:@)

Teriyaki Meatballs adapted from delish
1 egg white, lightly beaten
1/4 C scallions, minced-I used chives from the garden
2 Tblsp soy sauce
2 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated
2 tsp toasted sesame oil
1 clove garlic, crushed through a garlic press
1/4 tsp pepper
**dried breadcrumbs
1 1/2 lbs ground pork or chicken
1/2 C thick teriyaki sauce, either store bought or homemade
Toasted sesame seeds for garnish-I didn't have these

Mix everything except teriyaki sauce and sesame seeds.
**I found this mix to be a little too wet to form meatballs, I added breadcrumbs until it was just workable. I suggest you go by how it feels, make sure it will stick together. The breadcrumbs just added body to the meatballs, I liked it.
You'll get approximately 40 meatballs using 1 Tblsp of mix.
Brown the meatballs in a skillet with a little olive oil.
To a preheated 425 degree oven, add the meatballs on a sheet pan or baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes or until cooked through.
When cooked, cover with teriyaki sauce and serve.

Teriyaki Sauce from food.com
1/4 C soy sauce
1 C water
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp garlic powder
5 Tblsp brown sugar
1-2 Tblsp honey
2 Tblsp cornstarch
1/4 C water
Mix everything except cornstarch and 1/4 C water in small sauce pan. Start to heat it and mix the cornstarch and water. Add cornstarch to hot liquid and cook till thick. If it gets too thick add more water until desired consistency.

Have a happy day:@)

I'm joining:
On The Menu Monday
It's A Keeper Thursday
Foodie Friday

Simple Fall Centerpiece

2011-09-10T18:25:00.009-04:00

Hey everyone! Nothing fancy, but that's me:@) Just wanted to share the fall runner I made last year with my new pumpkin centerpiece. I found this Fenton Silvercrest basket at a yard sale two houses down a while ago for $1-Woo Hoo!

Love the scene and colors!

F - Farms offering apples and pumpkins.
A - Animals finally feeling cool and frisky.
L - Leaves in their most beautiful colors.
L - Late mornings cozy under the blanket.

Have a happy day:@)

Hot Bacon Cheese Dip

2011-09-09T10:26:00.008-04:00

Hey everyone! As soon as I saw this dip recipe from Aunt Nubby's Kitchen I knew I had to try it! It's a wonderfully creamy dip that's just perfect for football. Did you notice my fun new pig dip bowl?

I was so lucky to have won the kitchen gadget package from Teeny Templeton and Michael Lee at Designs By Gollum! One of the great items was this way too cute pig dip dish and spreader,

is it perfect or what!!! Thanks so much Michael!

Hot Bacon Cheese Dip
8oz cream cheese, cubed
2 C cheddar cheese, shred
1/2 C Half and Half
1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
1/2 tsp dry minced onion
1/2 tsp prepared mustard
8 strips of bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
Tortilla chips or French bread
In a slow cooker, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cream, Worcestershire sauce, onion, and mustard. Cover and cook for two hours, or until cheeses are melted, stirring occasionally. Just before serving, stir in crumbled bacon. Serve warm with tortilla chips or bread. Makes 2 cups. The original recipe made twice this much, so double it if you have a crowd.

Notes:

I slowly heated everything on the stove top, took about 10 minutes to melt everything.
Since I cooked it faster, I changed out the dry onion for a tsp of grated fresh onion.
Using what I had on-hand... I used milk and served it with a thinly sliced hearty rye bread.
I could see adding a little garlic powder and paprika too.
This may sound like a joke but... if you'd like to cut back on a few calories, it's good with celery sticks and while I don't have one to test right now, I think apples would be great dipped in this.
I would make it again!
PS-The leftovers were pretty good on a bagel the next day too! Adding diced celery would be very nice.

Have a happy day:@)

I'm joining:
Foodie Friday

Yo-Yo Pumpkins!

2011-09-07T09:58:00.024-04:00

Here's a super simple 20 minute fall craft that you don't even need a sewing machine to make.

These pumpkins are basically a big stuffed yo-yo that I've wrapped some jute around to make

a pumpkin shape and stem.

What you'll need:

Cut a circle twice as big as you'd like your pumpkin to be, plus 1/2" out of the fabric.

For example, I was aiming for a 4.5" pumpkin, I cut a 9.5" circle.

Note: These will be approximate measurements, the end result will vary depending on

how much stuffing you use and how tightly you wrap the jute.

Thread the needle and double the thread (pull the end you put through the eye of the needle down to the end you're going to cut). Give yourself a length of about 20" of thread, more for bigger circles.

Flip the circle so the wrong side of the fabric is facing you. Turn the edge over 1/4" and start sewing it in place. You'll want to use a wide stitch, maybe every 1/4".

Continue all the way around the circle.

Gently pull on both sides of the string until it closes up and looks like a pouch.

Leave the needle on the thread, and hold on to both ends of the thread with one hand. You'll leave the needle on just in case the ends get away from you and a couple stitches come out, you can fix it.

Stuff the pumpkin, you want to make it as full as you can while still being able to tighten the threads.

They need to be pulled closed after the pumpkin is stuffed.

Here the tread has been knotted, I like to run the needle down through the stuffing and then through the side of the pumpkin, then cut the thread. This hides the loose ends.

A note about thread: I used a quilters thread which is a little thicker and stronger than regular thread.

I've also used regular thread, most of the time no problem, but if you pull too hard it can break.

At this point you can try to "shape" your pumpkin, smoosh it around until it's round, etc.

Loosely wrap the jute around the pumpkin, you want 3-4" extra on each side.

Cut three stands of jute this length.

Cut one strand that's twice as long.

Holding the three shorter strands, knot them together in the middle.

Edited to say: It's better to tie all 4 strands together, matching one end and having 3 short strands and one long one on the other end. Tie the knot in the middle of the shorter strands.

Place the pumpkin on top of the knot.
Bring two strings up either side of the pumpkin and pull to tighten. This makes the ridges in the pumpkin.

Tie in a knot in the "open" top of the pumpkin.

Bring two more strands around the sides of the pumpkin at 90 degrees, or making a cross.
Tie a knot in the top.

Bring the third set of short strands up the opposite sides between the the other two sets, tie a knot.

Make the last set of ridges with the remaining short and long strand, tie it off at the top.

To make the stem, hold the seven shorter ends together and loosely wrap the long strand around them,

bring the end of the string through the "hole" in the loop and tighten. This creates a slip knot.

Neatly repeat this going up the stem until you make it a long as you'd like.

There you have it, one cute little pumpkin!

A great rainy day project.

My pumpkin ended up just a touch under 4".

Instead of jute you could use a couple strands of yarn twisted together, ribbon or raffia.

You could add fabric leaves if you'd like or make them all different sizes for your own pumpkin patch!

Have fun:@)

I'm joining:
Fall Festival
Thrifty Thursday & Thrifty Things Friday (use leftover fabric and supplies)
It's A Keeper Thursday
Seasonal Sunday
Favorite Things Blog Hop
This tutorial has been featured on Totally Tutorials
Fall Craft Challenge

My Personal PIGskin Challenge-Year 2

2011-09-05T09:05:00.008-04:00

Hey everyone! I had fun last year with my Personal PIGskin Challenge trying a new dip for each week of football. You can click HERE to see the different things I made. Well, here we are at the beginning of another season and even if you don't like football, I hope you find some party and holiday inspiration!

Cajun Meatballs!

That's right, this year's challenge is...
Meatballs!

I'm thinking appetizers, munchies and fun toothpicks! Although sandwiches and soups are good too:@)
Wouldn't a meatball tasting party be fun, all different meats and flavors lined up!

Cajun Appetizer Meatballs found on Allrecipes.com

1 lb lean ground beef

1 1/2 tsp hot pepper sauce

2 Tblsp Cajun seasoning

1 Tblsp Worcestershire Sauce

1 Tblsp dried parsley

1/4 C finely chopped onion

1/4 C fresh bread crumbs

1/4 C milk

1 egg

1/2 C B-B-Q sauce

1/2 C peach preserves

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease a medium sized baking sheet.
Mix everything except the B-B-Q sauce and preserves.
Form into golf ball size meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
Bake 30-40 minutes, or until no longer pink in the middle.
Mix B-B-Q sauce and preserves in small bowl. Place meatballs in serving dish, cover with sauce. Toss to combine.

Notes:

I used homemade nectarine jam, any stone fruit will do. If I was making these for a party I might send the jam through the food chopper to thin the fruit a little.
I ended up with 18 meatballs and would make them more "bite size" next time. 24 is probably perfect.
These meatballs are very flavorful, you can really taste the herbs! I used Emeril's Essence for my Cajun Seasoning.
What I love about these: No one will be looking around for the spaghetti, there's no doubt these ain't yo Momma's meatballs! There's a little heat and you can taste the thyme. If your crowd is into hot I could see adding some cayenne powder or hot sauce to the glaze.

Earl's so excited, he loves football almost as much as he loves to eat!

Have a happy day:@)

I'm joining:
On The Menu Monday
Fall Festival
It's A Keeper Thursday
Foodie Friday
Friday Favorites
Friday Food

Ever Question Yourself?

2011-09-04T18:47:00.007-04:00

Hey everyone! I have an inspiration board in my studio and one of my favorite quotes is from George Jones, yep the country singer. George was asked about his song He Stopped Loving Her Today during an interview and this was his response:

"I told them, it ain't never gonna sell, it's just too damn sad!"

Obviously it's all a matter of personal opinion, but I don't think anyone would question

that this is truly one of the most powerful country songs of all time.

Moral of the story:

Sometimes you just have to complete the task,

because if you don't, you may have missed out on your signature song!

Have a happy day:@)

Saturday Centus!

2011-09-03T08:35:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone! I'm happy to be joining Mizz Jenny today for Saturday Centus! I love that she's been allowing photos, I think it adds to the fun:@) This week the prompt is what kind of pizza is this, we can use the prompt and up to 100 words.

What Kind Of Pizza Is This

The pizza guy didn't know what to think,

when he was met at the door by my pig Rink.

He shrieked and freaked and ran back to his truck,

dropping the pizza on the ground, just my luck!

Rink pounced on the pie like it was his,

then stopped, hey-what kind of pizza is this?

He washed his mouth out, he did yes ma'am,

cause it would be wrong for a pig to eat ham!

Have a happy day:@)

Guiltless Buffalo Chicken

2011-09-02T14:35:00.014-04:00

Hey everyone! True confession time... My name is Lynn and I am a Buffalo Wing Addict. Yep, they're one of my favorite things in the world to eat! As soon as my go-to wing place cost almost $1 for each wing *yikes* I decided I'd start making them for myself. I also figured I could make them healthier so I use boneless skinless chicken breast and don't bread, flour or deep fry them.

These are really good, they've even been "guy approved":@)

I've used 3 good size tenders, I figure they equal one large breast.

Cut your tenders into cubes, approximately 1/2" thick. If you use whole chicken breast, slice them into strips about 1" wide (lengthwise, about 3 per breast), then into 1/2" cubes. Salt and pepper to taste.

Heat a 10" skillet to medium high (6-7 on my electric stove) and add 1 1/2 tsp olive oil.

Add the chicken in a single layer trying to give each piece a little room so they don't steam.

Don't try to move the chicken before it releases from the pan willingly. It will let you know when it's ready to be turned. Cook till just done, approximately 5 minutes and remove from skillet.

The key is- don't over cook the chicken. Remember there will be carry-over cooking once you

take it out of the pan.

Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel.

Add 1 tsp butter and 3 Tblsp of your favorite hot sauce. I use Crystal and could drink the stuff straight up!

Stir the butter and sauce together until well incorporated then let it cook for a couple minutes so it thickens.

Remove skillet from heat, add the chicken back to the pan and stir to thoroughly coat all the pieces.

See how thick that sauce is on the sides of the skillet-yum!

Add to a platter and serve with celery and bleu cheese dressing if desired.

Truly a fun munchie to try for the next football game!

Have a happy day:@)

I'm joining:
Foodie Friday
On The Menu Monday

Ya gotta love the pig!

2011-09-01T06:59:00.001-04:00

I was watching Paula Deen one day and she said to her guest "I just kinda love me some pig... y'all know what I mean?" Well yes, yes I believe I do:@)

Have a happy day:@)

Cake for One (or two)

2011-08-31T17:23:00.006-04:00

Hey everyone! Ever want a little something sweet but not a whole two layer cake? I had a craving and thought I'd make myself a little cake, using a 5" ramekin and my counter top oven.

The ramekins can be found at Walmart and are made of porcelain, they bake things beautifully.
The cake's 5" round and about 2 1/2" high.

5" Vanilla Cake for One (or two)
1/2 C A/P flour
1/4C + 2 Tblsp sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 Tblsp butter, softened
1/4 C milk
1/2 egg
1/4 tsp vanilla
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Mix all well, add to a greased and floured small baking dish. Use a 5" ramekin or 5" square dish.
Bake approximately 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and add frosting.

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
1 C powdered sugar
2 1/2 Tblsp butter, softened
1 Tblsp milk, start with less, add until desired consistency
1/8 tsp vanilla
Mix till combined, then turn to high and beat for about 5 minutes.

Have a happy day:@)

I'm joining:
It's A Keeper Thursday
Foodie Friday
Sweets For Saturday

End of Summer Party!

2011-08-30T16:47:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone, I'm happy to be joining La's End of Summer Party! Summer 2011 was a fun one!

This summer we...

Ate well:

Enjoyed the garden:

Survived an earthquake and hurricane:

And played hard: I'd like to give a shout-out to the Phillies as they go into the play-offs!

Go Phils!

I have plans for this little blinged-up logo, I see it on the front of an apron very soon!

And as a parting gift... I'm not going to show you the pic of Earl at the Jersey Shore in his Speedo:@)

Have a happy day!
Also joining: Seasonal Sunday

Homemade Wheat Bread

2011-08-29T07:21:00.005-04:00

Hey everyone! I am on a mission to find easy, good recipes for homemade bread. I do have a bread machine to handle the initial kneading and first rise so when I saw this one from April at Angel Food Kitchen I couldn't wait to give it a try.

Notes:

Of course I had to try it on a day we were bracing for a hurricane and the humidity was through the roof... I don't suggest that and do look forward to making it in September when the weather will be beautiful.
When I looked at the dough after 10 minutes it was a perfect gorgeous ball. At the end of the dough cycle it was a sticky wet mess (very similar to the Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes dough). I just spooned it out (plopped it really) into a bread pan.
Love that this recipe does not call for oil.
It is a very active dough and rose in the pan quickly.
I used an 8 1/2" x 4 1/2" pan and should have held some of the dough out, maybe fill a ramekin and use that for breadcrumbs. I will do that next time.
I used King Arthur Flour Whole Wheat flour, it's a very fine grind, powdery like A/P.
I fully expected to say that I'd cut back on the honey, but it's really good and not too sweet at all. I'm keeping the recipe as is and will be making this again-thanks April!
This is what you want your kitchen to smell like! It's a nice nutty wheat bread and I think you'll like it if you try it:@)
Now to find a white bread recipe...

Hope you've had at least one BLT while the tomatoes are ripe!

Super Easy Wheat Bread
1 1/8 C warm water
2 1/2 tsp yeast
1/4 C honey or sugar-I used honey
1 tsp salt
2 Tblsp butter, softened
2 C A/P flour
1 C wheat flour

Place water, yeast and honey into the bread machine and allow to proof for 10 minutes. Mixture should look foamy and bubbly.
Add salt, butter and flours. Set bread machine to dough setting and turn on.
Check dough after 10 minutes to make sure it's not too wet or too dry. If it is, add water or flour, a tablespoon at a time until it is the right consistency. (It should be slightly moist to the touch, and clearing the sides of the bread machine pan)
Once the dough cycle is finished, place dough into a well greased 9 1/2 X 5 bread pan.
Brush top of dough with melted butter and cover with a kitchen towel in a warm place. Allow to rest for 30 minutes.
Place into a pre-heated 350 degree oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
Remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a rack and allow to cool completely. Slice and enjoy.

Have a happy day:@)
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Well, it's still windy but over for Philly...

2011-08-28T18:37:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! What a mess and we were lucky here north of Philly! Seems the heaviest hit around 2:30AM and my electricity went out around 3AM. Very windy but I'm pleased to say other than me without electricity for 15 hours and Ma's basement flooding my family has come through this very well!

My thoughts are with the folks that are still struggling with the situation and some of the pictures on TV are heartbreaking. If you're warm and dry in your home please thank God, hug your kids and appreciate this day.
Take care:@)

Move Over Jim Cantore!

2011-08-27T16:15:00.002-04:00

Earl signed up for a correspondence course on meteorology he found on the back of a book of matches. He also just got his wet weather gear from Columbia Sporting Goods... looks like it was from their lunchroom.

That's right everyone, Earl will be reporting on how hurricane Irene is impacting folks north of Philly.
He'll post an hourly update as long as we have electricity.
It's Earl's dream that the Weather Channel notices and starts the series:
That Pig In That Place or A Swine For All Seasons.

He's all smiles now, we'll see how long that lasts when the rain and winds start!

6AM-it's still dry and not windy at all yet. We expect the worst of it tonight.
7AM-dry everywhere except inside this rain gear... and they say pigs don't sweat!
8AM-who decided we needed to be out here this early??? Let's go get some breakfast,
I'll be back when there's something to report folks!
1PM-Still dry folks, glad I brought a deck of cards...
2PM-It has started to rain, no winds yet.

3PM-Steady, light rain with occasional wind bursts. I could use a chair and Diet Pepsi right about now...
4PM-Wet, Windy and Wild!!!

Jim, your job is safe, you da man! I need a hot shower and my jammies.
Stay safe and have a happy day:@)

Pig Alert!

2011-08-26T06:00:00.010-04:00

Beep... beep... beep... We interrupt this blog with breaking news...

Now, I'll be the first to acknowledge that I live in Philly and my total life experience with live pigs

was passing two potbellied pets on my morning walk years ago... but, seriously???

Terrorize=Create and maintain a state of extreme fear and distress in someone; fill with terror.

I was terrified:

he'd find the kid's wading pool and never leave...

he would eat my garden...

he'd lay on my chihuahua...

my son would fall off his back before I got the picture...

my frisky beagle would fall in love...
we'd never be able to eat all that pork...

that much bacon would clog our arteries...

Uncle Eddie would hear of the pig roast and he'd never leave...

Any more?

Have a happy day:@)

On a serious note, looks like we're in for a nasty weekend here in Philly, as is the whole east coast. Obviously I'm hoping for nothing more than a bunch of rain and some wind. I have called off dinner with my sons on Sunday though, don't need anyone driving in that mess! If you're affected, please be careful.

Lemon Spritz Sunflowers

2011-08-25T09:50:00.008-04:00

Well, I thought I'd get 'right back on the saddle' after my cooking flop yesterday and tried some Lemon Spritz Cookies from Taste of Home. It's nice to use the cookie press more often than just Christmas!

They taste great and I think this is such a cute and simple way to decorate them.

My inspiration:

Sunny, lemon flavored cookies.

Lemon-Butter Spritz Cookies

2 C butter, softened
1 1/4 C sugar
2 eggs
Grated peel of one lemon
2 tsp lemon juice*
1 tsp vanilla
5 1/4 C flour
1/4 tsp salt
Colored sugar or other decorations

Cream butter and sugar till fluffy. Add eggs, lemon peel, juice and vanilla, mix well.
Combine flour and salt and gradually add to wet, mix well.
Load cookie press. Press dough 1" apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Decorate with sugar etc.
Bake 400 degrees* for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned around edges. Yield: About 12 dozen.

Notes:

I used the flower (ring) plate and put a little bit of dough in the open center of each flower so the decorations wouldn't fall through.
Added a little yellow food coloring paste too.
*I suggest exchanging the lemon juice for 1-2 tsp lemon extract for a bigger lemon flavor.
Even though the reviews for this cookie are very good, I was concerned that 400 degrees was too hot, so I opted for 375 for 10 minutes and they turned out fine.
The leaves are just a rolled out gum drop and shaped by hand.

Have a happy day:@)

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Sweet for Saturday

The best of intentions...

2011-08-24T07:57:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone! I invited Ma over to test a new scone recipe that sounded good, Orange Ginger Scones...

FAIL!

I had a feeling things were going down hill from the way the batter was just way too wet, extra flour helped a little... but once I looked in the oven, well, lets just say I'll be cleaning up butter for a while...

Soft and melty, not scone like at all. Needless to say I won't be sharing the recipe.

I guess this is why they sell...

I hope your kitchen adventures work out better than mine today,

I need a big ole cup of coffee and a fork!

Have a happy day:@)

Only One Sunflower In The Yard This Year...

2011-08-23T06:43:00.000-04:00

But she's a beauty! Gorgeous and the petals are just long enough that they softly wave at you in the breeze.

Have a happy day:@)