tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23888473380858753482024-02-18T20:04:25.442-08:00Ok, Here's The Thing...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-13846291771407289412011-07-23T18:00:00.001-07:002011-07-23T18:00:54.804-07:00Movies for kids!<p>If you’re like me often you’d like to know something about a movie before you watch it with your kids, especially if you’re going to be spending a <strike>million dollars </strike> a lot of money to take them to the theater. Even here at home if I’m looking for something new to watch with my daughter on Netflix I found this website I just love… <a href="http://www.commonsensemedia.org/" target="_blank">Common Sense Media</a></p> <p>They have book reviews, movies, music, apps, and video games along with recommended age appropriateness.</p> <p>See below I checked out the Winnie the Pooh movie (which I have zero concerns about taking my daughter to but thought it would be a good example). </p> <p>From the green slide bar you can see it’s recommended for ages 3+… the yellow around the 2 indicates use caution with children this age. If it were not recommended for any age range those ages would be in red.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Movie" border="0" alt="Movie" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKelvSKpaBKBfCBOqvmWiLRsE86p922ex1RBK80guqVhMwD4NRmFhF0FJlusbZfN9HT2O60TmRqflbtxFJmdg8F2B48CeFaRZvDHDYtq5vB3ankns98ZheHuOaTuQVL7iK8faSqwCWEAva/?imgmax=800" width="575" height="344"></p> <p>Then it breaks down ratings on violence, positive message, product placement, etc, followed by parent/kid reviews of the movie.</p> <p>Check it out the next time your kids want to see something. </p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-7787302283115305992011-07-14T19:05:00.001-07:002011-07-14T19:05:06.292-07:00Great New England Attractions… FREE!<p>A friend just sent me this link… FREE admission on Fridays in Massachusetts to these great attractions… planning a Boston get-away, or live in New England… a lot of these are worth the drive!</p> <p><a href="http://www.highlandstreet.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=79" target="_blank">Free Fridays!</a></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-78979351635040014122011-07-11T00:00:00.000-07:002011-07-11T05:10:06.233-07:00Corn Season!!<p>One thing I love about living in New England is all the local farm stands to get fresh produce, and corn is finally in season… YUM.</p><p>We had our first taste of the season today… it did not disappoint.</p><p><img style="display: inline" title="IMGP4168" alt="IMGP4168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm8tBIrE73mDZaBMklJ-Sz4pgw4-u_IxnnpuPzPN4SF84FgZOAobeZ9joQblyhGXOe981tEkOPK9E-jwdgwMHfqZum7XfeOjTi2Eo_Aw68uSdkGXgyc2-VXxf-sCCpBVYyf02UEM_Fd7Oz/?imgmax=800" width="483" height="340"></p><p>Let me stop for a moment & comment on the corn holders. I had a Pampered Chef party a few months ago & ordered these, and then forgot about them… getting ready to make the corn tonight I though oh yeah… I got those corn holders. So I took them out… GET THIS… you put them on BEFORE you cook the corn!!</p><p><img style="display: inline" title="IMGP4169" alt="IMGP4169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JKv10h2O6qWoW7E6RtgTS5warZ9LTde0XmfrixtrMLvXowSjlnkDuVlE_GptDGDulUUIfuDyyLF18ifLyf8mSXYyReiIQ3nQfkBsDdaiJu99akYNQmzCaEgng2ZsRUf-amIBslRvC1_v/?imgmax=800" width="501" height="347"></p><p>Make sure your helper doesn’t eat any before it’s cooked.</p><p><img style="display: inline" title="IMGP4167" alt="IMGP4167" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1HyImFLo1nU/ThpbZkF5FwI/AAAAAAAAC6w/-n7jXuHYhRE/IMGP4167%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="522" height="360"></p><p>They’re a bit of extra work but I think worth it… you have to trim off the ends, and then these little green gems screw into each end… the bottom half looks like a screw, and the top looks like a game piece from the board game “Sorry”. They go right in the water… or the grill, or the microwave.</p><p><img style="display: inline" title="IMGP4170" alt="IMGP4170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTppFx8aqHln0AMfOod_6kpVBoB0fxyy7yUP4Mdh7epPMpIduq_G5zNU3fzx1U_lVHPzAp1B2jBBdJcuV_jCMiiZw5Mle3VbycaXWF0w8-FDNV09lQ1wIgNGcPIgbi-Ml9ksfwqPYHbKup/?imgmax=800" width="496" height="420"></p><p>The info with these says they are cool within seconds of coming out of the water… I’d say it was about 90 seconds after coming out of the water they weren’t uncomfortable. By the time we sat down at the table they were completely cool.</p><p><img style="display: inline" title="IMGP4172" alt="IMGP4172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO5D_9G1t8o_a7pGP5vlxJA6tII-3AiakSpT_4XLi3YxN4E3xYREX7my-Hf87YPltvtPwq-57tfnCjMYvIY6TjAqb_WNOnIR10Uacd3IhS9LzANJBEXGxY87moHopSBnbSYMl6ysY5YY_N/?imgmax=800" width="528" height="365"></p><p>They were a hit… as was the corn!! BTW… dishwasher safe too!</p><p><img style="display: inline" title="IMGP4174" alt="IMGP4174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRhi09qxbgu9LBmihvpa1tiN_F3zxEUjNlC1iwe_KxXGuzll_BjqF9ZU-a2ElJ8ccQfPLCRmIzfxplH6zvxpaYaFVoS2koPjv9L0imLQsVZyV4E3IjACR5ICKUn7adSRRSLbIt1ZRVOyV/?imgmax=800" width="400" height="492"></p><p>Happy husking!</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-48802721243668780952011-07-10T08:02:00.001-07:002011-07-10T08:02:10.422-07:00National Teddy Bear Picnic Day!<p>Did you know today is National Teddy Bear Picnic Day?! I had no idea… but how fun!! My daughters favorite-must-have-at-bedtime-worn-down-fur-because-he’s-loved-so-much toy is her “Winnie-The –Pooh” bear… I love that when she gets sleepy she rubs his paw back & forth under nose…</p> <p>If I’d known ahead of time I would have planned some of these fun crafts with my daughter… Now that I’m looking at these ideas & recipes I’m thinking this could be a fun theme for a kids b-day party too… have all the guests bring their bears… run wild w/ the ‘picnic’ theme… too cute!</p> <p><a href="http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/bear-your-heart-675032/" target="_blank">These adorable little treat bags</a>… so easy to whip up…</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="bear-your-heart-coockie-wrapping-valentine-craft-photo-260-FF0209VALENA12" border="0" alt="bear-your-heart-coockie-wrapping-valentine-craft-photo-260-FF0209VALENA12" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KXE11o2FoVY/Thm-69IaVqI/AAAAAAAAC6Y/PtXKdeCde9k/bear-your-heart-coockie-wrapping-valentine-craft-photo-260-FF0209VALENA12%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="387" height="455"></p> <p><a href="http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/cub-cakes-824242/" target="_blank">These little paw cupcakes…</a></p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="cub-cakes-recipe-photo-260-1294-FF12115X1" border="0" alt="cub-cakes-recipe-photo-260-1294-FF12115X1" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-G2-5TYcusXM/Thm-7UQBZRI/AAAAAAAAC6c/7R_3SCkDxKM/cub-cakes-recipe-photo-260-1294-FF12115X1%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="386" height="394"></p> <p><a href="http://kidscraftweekly.com/bears_issue.html" target="_blank">This website</a> has some great craft ideas to get ready for your own Teddy Bear Picnic!! How cute are these ‘fancy’ hats?!</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="hat4" border="0" alt="hat4" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLI748TFYFfH7PyH_uu7CAJV_dAxopR1J18yaMiQnfNikawAJ3k8Oakx_X3YC5paIg5z8trnDaEaIIka2Ova6wxUegyCz3RdMmT-pCn6qoD0EdXgTGE65E-X0FrORZcwmsBrOiga-GKMCG/?imgmax=800" width="414" height="323"></p> <p> </p> <p>It doesn’t have to be today… any nice day will do for a Teddy Bear picnic. Maybe we’ll do a last minute one today… if we do I’ll post pics!!</p> <p>P.S.- Don’ t forget the honey!! </p> <p>“It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn't use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words like ‘What about lunch?’ “ – Winnie the Pooh</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="po15" border="0" alt="po15" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBSWRwofsooMgKq92RGmPxOE0KF74o6eKxEUyfShgDLdne4hauM3DKd6PLnGclwdZE1AIY0eqtGpTQr6zD1Ai3_09eU1WccD1sqXlI-HT0n4rwCnQsoqkd9evbxJMgm2AL7XtoSnKSvu2I/?imgmax=800" width="204" height="390"></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-82870622900334008852011-07-07T12:53:00.001-07:002011-07-07T12:54:47.474-07:00Cool Jewelry…<p>I found this <a href="http://www.annabellea.com/" target="_blank">jewelry business</a> by another adoptive Mom, and I just LOVE her jewelry… it’s so vintage inspired (which as a shabby chic girl is right up my alley)… particularly the “Garden Collection”… </p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="jewelry" border="0" alt="jewelry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaW3kf7jpG1Xs2mzxMn8W0j7BNg2FFyxRcUq42Z34udELzYPPjORyeo6WpKhe28NH73hImYJcNco4DY_mYHcVcrvtZMg-G13xkDTncftGMPRyBmkrf7xtn1yN5IFIVutjSVJjxNYt4Mr7z/?imgmax=800" width="567" height="253"></p> <p>Also, as an adoptive Mom of a Guatemala cutie I LOVE the “Guatemala” collection, and wish I’d found this website in time for my daughter’s b-day… definitely for Christmas!!</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Jewelry2" border="0" alt="Jewelry2" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Bg8YhDEa-Ak/ThYOx6QxUgI/AAAAAAAAC6U/C1hWPc9SuBM/Jewelry2%25255B3%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="563" height="253"></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-42859940541607885072011-07-06T13:06:00.001-07:002011-07-06T13:06:11.240-07:00S’mores… sort of!<p>I wanted to get this post up before the July 4th weekend, but alas the weekend got away from me. I made <a href="http://www.lovintheoven.com/2008/12/day-11-smores-cookie-bars.html" target="_blank">these s’more bars</a> for a cookout yesterday, and they were a BIG hit!! Super easy too.</p> <p>First grease an 8x8 pan (I used cooking spray, but you could also give it a crisco rubdown). Preheat oven to 350.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4004.PEF" border="0" alt="IMGP4004.PEF" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5tshN0AGU_I/ThS_4ff1EXI/AAAAAAAAC44/_pD0DVQqngU/IMGP4004.PEF%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="465" height="281"></p> <p>Add 1/2 cup of room temperature butter to mixing bowl… I’m thinking this butter was a little warmer than room temperature… it was hot this weekend… can you tell?</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4007" border="0" alt="IMGP4007" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XGdRLT60raU/ThS_5BKJDtI/AAAAAAAAC48/5Ez2p2ug8g4/IMGP4007%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" height="329"></p> <p>Add 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup white sugar.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4011" border="0" alt="IMGP4011" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMZLTtF-qR1epmcrnbcBxGBle3vPkj6nLbB1agWCGDp9RYhTb4wNhRxD4In9YGyEF20nAnM67IXnlwk5iycynXeS6CmReccRWupp6szLcAOQRZdoT_6ZgmO3CRtc-aWsxidaL-MPqCfQx3/?imgmax=800" width="459" height="319"></p> <p>Beat until fluffy & creamy…Ahhh… at thing of beauty!!</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4016" border="0" alt="IMGP4016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiIvDBTIgW483YkVhcF6t6H_80TQblwlITyYIpNOWO5BdWnveD5iHILswi20EAaROzpVtsXHWZo_aVEk_DdLD69IoOIHZcJcyeZSV5-7chbgclmvuH6zyLig_sPi39k3SOAzIuOsrPlxA/?imgmax=800" width="474" height="329"></p> <p>Beat in 1 egg, and 1tsp vanilla… </p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4017" border="0" alt="IMGP4017" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirdWZ7GUwy96EO2CJwKJDtUJr_tK-p7u_PwFpFUA8NN7kyz7LzoZrGiDL1pwd4EGOSCR4UEQU4RWyzTGir44nCSXeVsVLwlESaPjp5gJpff6tk2pFMHarIxcUfAkExk6LoOLTS7908SPb1/?imgmax=800" width="345" height="428"></p> <p>Or… have your helper do it for you!! </p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4019" border="0" alt="IMGP4019" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bQeTCkc3AFVckH_rSeLRNuPdo4ldYVLgGB95uvVUkeFyRs7zsIwgYQjJikWAxzyoOqEyge3QQsA5wr5hfWeBApSuPT-iQDBTh7IqCMOjwAHijkKSZxvKU84KDPQf5_gfnFjmnWrrrJ9_/?imgmax=800" width="354" height="455"></p> <p>In a separate bowl add 1 1/3 cup flour</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4024" border="0" alt="IMGP4024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU6rPhGpNErx2ZwJwlb7YOj93O03W-9yUSOGrNLGhT36X-JkH0fNNa8IYtYRKBDxA_90TXJFnZrI5e7LysC7-wSeG3zjR7DtrHt00jqfK3iFORpcjKGgd8pJ8k1VXWWs6ODhTcNv50tyGQ/?imgmax=800" width="386" height="373"></p> <p>3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (I bought the box of pre crummified ones, but if you have graham crackers just stick some in a ziploc bag, and crush w/ a rolling pin).</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4027" border="0" alt="IMGP4027" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkle-bSOCJZtpGfMII2u0K4xHno_mOrKqUc75du4b6gkY91lWu569uk_cAzsiEpM_4L3wnB7H_lrvtKOBzmaAEVLp_Ndqe04hBcas8kzbKqaNEUpqVNP30JiQr7d5Pqz9vpf_OtBRBrKvQ/?imgmax=800" width="398" height="277"></p> <p>Add 1tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4035" border="0" alt="IMGP4035" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8WkUJmqlFw6QFRZMGNoOmrYyLXYf6QyDxojSm4uIE4gS4dkHCv5_2V4WTvZNJpJ7-C_2VjzK8wGCLVOIbyDQlPlwW4PPgjv8nDoUdmN-5OgXahn0XjaM5JtJHFTRQlMM-PQScZ7f61g1r/?imgmax=800" width="436" height="294"></p> <p>Whisk until blended.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4038" border="0" alt="IMGP4038" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4zYa_WZ_vS8/ThTAD-SzTpI/AAAAAAAAC5c/IdYAf7HxRV4/IMGP4038%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="433" height="301"></p> <p>Add slowly to mixing bowl on low speed.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4041" border="0" alt="IMGP4041" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgif9L0auyLWO0qL14HrPEHLwKemXmUxG7NtB8rvqRykCxpewtq5Je5FCYGtOWHGRCedFaf10UK6qlFAVNsOUk0w_8whT9LGUGHntatY9vvR9lKo-njatkvgNRqYPiSoTuiIV2ocrQ-uXh5/?imgmax=800" width="441" height="306"></p> <p>Once combined you should have a good thick cookie like dough… should be just thick enough to ALMOST roll into a ball but still fall apart slightly.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4042" border="0" alt="IMGP4042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1CRb8QIAmrt4OIZEuSd9z79Q9xIlRZ724EVZmSEYXXv6a_nRqcL_kmAQFrNp61S_Qr64IUNtODGvK0dUhnvpYPyBoNfD6W9oJu_zJgDCrrWY35KMlKFj8VT9iUwjB3cgCBHqHT4GEkSu/?imgmax=800" width="448" height="311"></p> <p>Divide dough in half, and spread into bottom of 8x8 pan… pressing with your fingers out to the corners so it’s covered.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4043" border="0" alt="IMGP4043" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNbsQRyUuA9WTRET8wIZrSO5bxFTMfAKx7hWHvakUYxriUb-XgJe_HKreReJLnY9lDFA-LgblLnOEIojIMp47_iPXFU92-6I8OLzzAxO7WNRPxADkaX-9Ly1G9bTimmucPt_awGaAtDs-/?imgmax=800" width="459" height="319"></p> <p>Now spread 5 Hershey bars (or 2 king size bars)… I just fit in the whole ones as I could, and then broke sections to fill in out to the edge.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4045" border="0" alt="IMGP4045" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TXcaEWnpb7Y/ThTAFgbdOjI/AAAAAAAAC5s/_HCHbo53LHg/IMGP4045%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="461" height="320"></p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4047" border="0" alt="IMGP4047" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-u6tOLAP6tcc/ThTAGYvpyLI/AAAAAAAAC5w/1lzw-yIm4XI/IMGP4047%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="462" height="321"></p> <p>Then measure out 1 1/2 cups of fluff (melted marshmallows aren’t recommended… I’m thinking after they cooled the marshmallows would get hard).</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4048" border="0" alt="IMGP4048" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FR5FylAylcw/ThTAGh1zwfI/AAAAAAAAC50/mOrJ2xVtYPo/IMGP4048%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="254" height="384"></p> <p>Spread across the chocolate (this is where using 2 king size bars would come in handy… as the smaller chunks of chocolate would stick sometimes but it still worked).</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4049" border="0" alt="IMGP4049" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLvS2MncbZDsYfK-evM9YBgE1KcVAs9XHvPjMrHm6V8tBrHwHXPFEsPnJ9DUOlWBLTTSU_1mOCnTMDEwg0zOsy3Yqogth0g19B3qSVU6rrF3tF9Wjp_ZiBfREvf9vDs-PBYHVlmXn6yP4/?imgmax=800" width="466" height="324"></p> <p>Now top with the remaining half of the dough… the easiest way to do this was to piece it… I made square size pieces, and pressed them together.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4050" border="0" alt="IMGP4050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXDzg4MFSVp-jlwGgK6x8PSAmlzr9VOEfGA5BuJAnQu97N9xa2bOEDOQXYyn-4fVnyz9HAnF6h3f-JtF0eU2_hPFjNemzGnMCMFIpAxRWVIotD-UthxXDkzm7G5P52GsNyf35Etf04t6i/?imgmax=800" width="448" height="311"></p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4051" border="0" alt="IMGP4051" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTwlWvsUWMzYAgLndJgaZPqcm0nwYTKZNzxy1sM9eFcIfb7gkIeuLhJG8etRVtSFQV14rRqOCeCP0yaLz_69S1tnfqUfkKDGom95KgcTMhv3ohOsSx4dnTXG22KpnqvhMX3XiKPNhZSTjn/?imgmax=800" width="465" height="323"></p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4052" border="0" alt="IMGP4052" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJXjOqeXPppUVSEFyfHtrxxFjvOzrRf19BnRySSQMfd51EMZw-xAtFMiaSK1eytujF6_mAFvTll3K_LYFDD9DYnn1STsWCChDUhlGSza0FAPMvLdgcd0mVE8KqSeLIS0FCagW1Uk_AOqG/?imgmax=800" width="462" height="321"></p> <p> </p> <p>Bake 30-35 minutes until golden brown, and have your helper assist in the clean-up!</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4053" border="0" alt="IMGP4053" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bQCo9sF3XqE/ThTALeTwgII/AAAAAAAAC6I/3K8yEktqkkA/IMGP4053%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="335" height="508"></p> <p>Allow to cool completely before cutting.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP4117.PEF" border="0" alt="IMGP4117.PEF" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8FITlYlnIsY/ThTAL9Jf-vI/AAAAAAAAC6M/20y0E53aeVw/IMGP4117.PEF%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" height="295"></p> <p>Post for the s’more cup recipe (pictured above) coming soon!</p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-15882209637322938702011-07-01T09:14:00.001-07:002011-07-01T09:14:02.709-07:00Great Resource…<p>Every time I walk into Barnes & Noble with my daughter I get so overwhelmed with all the choices… I have no idea even where to start selecting books for her (aside from the classics… there’s nothing wrong with the classics… I love the classics… I’m a classic kind of girl… it would just be nice to open her up & myself to some new classics… I digress). So… I couldn’t wait to check out this website featured this morning on “Today w/ Kathie Lee & Hoda” (don’t judge me).</p> <p>The author James Patterson started this website <a href="http://www.readkiddoread.com">www.readkiddoread.com</a>. On it are book reviews broken down by age…</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="readkiddo" border="0" alt="readkiddo" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XGzxbjrJq0E/Tg3ySdiLK0I/AAAAAAAAC3g/Lq6qRpynhPA/readkiddo%25255B4%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="476" height="249"></p> <p>Then after you click on each age group it’s broken down further… what a great idea!! </p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-40819644064926931612011-06-27T17:57:00.001-07:002011-06-27T17:57:52.320-07:00Unique Personalized Gifts…<p>Check out this custom invitation, announcement website <a href="http://www.littleladybugdesigns.com/" target="_blank">Little Ladybug Designs</a>. </p> <p>They’ve just launched a new <a href="http://www.littleladybugdesigns.com/catalog.php?category=196" target="_blank">line of customized products</a> for your little ones called “Just Like Me” !! So cute… she’s got stationary, lunchboxes, plates/bowls… SOOO fun. </p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Little Ladybug" border="0" alt="Little Ladybug" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-s4NhA_vjW84/Tgkm2dKpeCI/AAAAAAAAC3c/_XPYD661Tc4/Little%252520Ladybug%25255B4%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="589" height="267"></p> <p>The best part is, not only can you have your child’s name printed on these products, but you can design the cartoon to match your child’s skin tone, hair color, eye color, hair style, and even put a pacifier in his/her mouth!!</p> <p>As an adoptive Mom I’m always looking for products that my are reflective of my daughter’s physical characteristics…. something she can relate to, identify with, and see herself in. I LOVE that I can do that with these.</p> <p>I ADORE this little lunchbox, and know Madalynn would flip over it… she loves any little thing you can put items in… the BEST part is it says it’s a chalkboard INSIDE… so if you use it as a lunchbox you can leave an encouraging note for you child at school…. I CAN’T even handle it!!!</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ladybug2" border="0" alt="Ladybug2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sC10R_8_uSCs0Zpt7c6zTt-nplnCJhaY280AyEDxfTAwh_QCSqiPCYrH_W0dG5ZLuzkUww3hWmsVGTlRIDe9bhlQmDM8_4h_ovnDHd5OpOItEG92ntsyfnNEphJ9Tl6MAYuhzq6XSxci/?imgmax=800" width="566" height="433"></p> <p> </p> <p>I think some of these would also make great newborn gifts, and WONDERFUL for families welcoming a child through adoption.</p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-73334245715864157652011-06-26T11:53:00.001-07:002011-06-26T11:54:50.177-07:00Picasa…<p>I’ve mentioned before (I think)… this amazing free software from Google called <a href="http://picasa.google.com/" target="_blank">Picasa</a> that you can do simple edits, that can add a bit of pop to your photos, and it’s FREE!! <br><br>Below is a small example of how you can enhance a photo.</p> <p>So, this is the SOOC (straight out of the camera)… gorgeous day at the lake! But this picture is a bit flat & gray.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3337" border="0" alt="IMGP3337" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PuQh8H26dWc/Tgd__COsgnI/AAAAAAAAC2Y/GxtS3i__6lg/IMGP3337%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="267" height="404"></p> <p>Once you download Picasa it will import the pictures on your computer… so find that folder, and double click on the photo you want to edit…</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pic tut 5" border="0" alt="Pic tut 5" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLB_tbKsHghoSIDLJQBLRoNNMhcweYouAsZfQSvMnbxI7DV2sRaDDlFn4LZZ0XGyHl93FVMV6NK-hMDOTYgiw3Epue2ZHqUi9_49IODAqlRV2ALS2_bAuvM1ZUPOABiiVeFbXC6yLUBRfY/?imgmax=800" width="562" height="334"></p> <p>This is the edit screen… see the pane on the left, with some simple edits, and the 3 tabs across the top for “Basic Fixes”, “Tuning” & “Effects”.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pic Tut" border="0" alt="Pic Tut" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--M5jq6g21tg/TgeAAP1jYxI/AAAAAAAAC3E/1EplMvCJzZc/Pic%252520Tut.png?imgmax=800" width="580" height="349"></p> <p>Once open… the first thing I usually do is ‘Auto Contrast’ (highlighted in yellow) which usually greatly improves the flatness & the greyness of a photo.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pic tut2" border="0" alt="Pic tut2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QMOZQg-GFg8/TgeAAmrPL-I/AAAAAAAAC3I/fu5El8OSw8w/Pic%252520tut2.png?imgmax=800" width="588" height="349"></p> <p>Now, the only other thing I’m going to do to this photo is bump the saturation just a bit… this will make the blue bluer & the green greener. So I click on the effects tab.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pic tut 3" border="0" alt="Pic tut 3" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjCdGdPYOayRYKse2YRq91eyeg8neF-w43tb1Bk5Lc9SlmYubGRhAnVIEluUDinbG654pwfeJuJS_DO-pHOEt0VfNbdQfB0HPfyqT4dqbhYmtPOgASwIPOlF-QRTeZvAn-TRRDjzxcaF4_/?imgmax=800" width="619" height="371"></p> <p>Then the left pane will change with a slider tab to adjust the saturation, and as you slide it you will see how it affects the photo in the middle pane… so play with it until you get to where you want… careful though don’t make it look alien… unless you’re going for an artistic look! I just bumped it ever so slightly.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pic tut 4" border="0" alt="Pic tut 4" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VKjf8WYdLiA/TgeACPebCPI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/CoFOGEVLF4Q/Pic%252520tut%2525204.png?imgmax=800" width="617" height="366"></p> <p>Voila! </p> <p>End result…</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3337-1" border="0" alt="IMGP3337-1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05ebiD7nSo1v4DEZvnobdlc1AZdVJ3_jtLvs81XhsLCPKFFfpRLeqFNgOhFfPdkvLH3XRrSMowrq2FKnsM6A1ESQ6EBXQe36e8JIcBnL30E7A5cSpJOqoxPHlYdHjm1Ebe2TSgPOMMzAi/?imgmax=800" width="345" height="523"></p> <p>Once that’s done… click on ‘file’, and ‘save’ to save your changes. The beauty of this program too is you can ALWAYS open the photo back up, and undo EVERYTHING you did… including the save.</p> <p>Before. After.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3337" border="0" alt="IMGP3337" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n1ZhWA4uKz0/TgeAC1oCSWI/AAAAAAAAC20/4Hh8pvsO8ew/IMGP3337%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="226" height="347"> <img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3337-1" border="0" alt="IMGP3337-1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkliFa88ozKA-DZhyphenhyphenVduy5FqFrOaPFYwEaL8iB0dFpxU8BuhZCtcsjopWNicTcwMTALh4jqfIMdduYMP6df1B72uOqc2RufDSGLiuHK5OYJIlcw3q_-KDhHqUCzEQ-0VgQrNr_4tyn_jXe/?imgmax=800" width="225" height="346"></p> <p>This took me all of 2 minutes to do, just makes the photo pop a bit more.</p> <p>Sometimes with the saturation I also like to bump it down… below is a photo I did that with my daughter… I think it gives the photo an old-fashioned feel… almost a sepia tone…</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3328-2" border="0" alt="IMGP3328-2" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dFrpePPoXQg/TgeADigiRqI/AAAAAAAAC28/lrGm1DKl_S8/IMGP3328-2%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="328" height="503"></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-13617774391869199672011-06-24T04:54:00.001-07:002011-06-24T04:54:16.776-07:00Summer World Travel…<p>Loved this idea over on <a href="http://www.mommysideabook.com/kids-and-family/how-im-entertaining-and-educating-my-kids-this-summer/" target="_blank">“Mommy’s Idea Blog”</a> to keep kids busy this summer!!</p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-89186667535038325622011-06-24T01:46:00.000-07:002011-06-24T03:29:54.233-07:00Favorite Casserole….Yummy<p>Another inspiration from the Betty Crocker cookbook that I’ve tweaked a bit… The original recipe is Turkey Tetrazzini but I usually end up using chicken as I rarely have turkey on hand… just the 2 of us a turkey is NOT practical. This can also be doubled or tripled… it’s always a hit, and rarely is there any left.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2527" border="0" alt="IMGP2527" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZBaeg8uiO9taGrSECAln2pTr-NSuJNqhMq6saJjwCYwqAbAUd6zfF-qmvI3ZnoC-8gJHy-R-edsft8c0gTjbO-IKoDsxNQZqbD69JtLkEhsZraX07MFyi9E3x_LRBQx489GVPxKoWeay/?imgmax=800" width="421" height="334"></p><p>Start some water onto boil for the pasta. Preheat the oven to 350.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2856" border="0" alt="IMGP2856" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbAy9tv5TE58nDWl5Uo0WPVe_eFEXQHuesAiXPFOahXO6dIgYdtp35tMuMAOrz9fOXyE7w73Ct2qaP8PIm0loyg-JMCfLEEQ5eZWXpqAoOU25AR87nvIlpd4XH9E-UzoQ5hqtnp_Q47t-/?imgmax=800" width="487" height="338"></p><p>While that gets heated up… chop 2 cups of chicken.</p><blockquote><p><strong><u><em><font size="3">2 CUPS CHICKEN OPTIONS;</font></em></u></strong></p><ul><li><em><font size="3">I’ve found those pre-cooked roasters you can buy at the grocery store is usually just enough chicken for this recipe… so I’ll use that if I’m in a rush to throw this casserole together.</font></em></li>
<li><em><font size="3">I will also buy an uncooked roaster, bake that… use a good portion for this recipe, and then store the rest in the fridge for chicken salad sandwiches, or freeze it for this recipe in the future.</font></em></li>
<li><em><font size="3">You can also poach or roast 2-3 chicken breasts and use those.</font></em></li>
<li><em><font size="3">I also think there is pre-packed cooked chicken you can also buy although I’ve never done this so I don’t know how much chicken it will give you.</font></em></li>
</ul></blockquote><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2855" border="0" alt="IMGP2855" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0BanVlfq-hc/TgJUsXjlB4I/AAAAAAAAC0w/aW6ZdAMacnw/IMGP2855%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="567" height="400"></p><p>Once the water is boiling add the pasta & cook according to package directions. I prefer to use egg noodles although the original recipe has spaghetti.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2877" border="0" alt="IMGP2877" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsf5hb1DPGmNJZWJrlPsHBAeMx_QgAW_vRGh0HHZjtR_ahOHjO7rd3jpDt7mMiSEhnqOlihxZn9Qe1ENuB6_LbIz0wgvXGfFbXBxyurZcUnRvARYcCFLPS1NN0iWueg2CMQoE0CVOyWybY/?imgmax=800" width="541" height="375"></p><p>I prefer to put chopped broccoli in this but peas would work or any veggie you prefer really. I buy the frozen & get it par-cooking in the microwave… mostly defrosted & soft they don’t need to be fully cooked as they’ll cook more in the oven.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2858" border="0" alt="IMGP2858" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WZPLd3HYuBo/TgJUtDGAsII/AAAAAAAAC04/ek0NeVIFWsg/IMGP2858%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="594" height="412"></p><p>So… now you’ve got the pasta water boiling, and the veggies cooking…</p><p>So, now in a large saucepan (at least 4 qts) combine </p><p>2 cups chicken broth (1 can is exactly 2 cups… one of these boxes is 4 cups)</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2857" border="0" alt="IMGP2857" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtG5_NQmG4AoPccDhp1Zb5kW-qjfc1KbPcb_43QtuGWzdNlXB5jgG4SHHg14t0i_gvU9bEKTRhQdqn7RgyY5Qf32kU1TNtHbFpUZVbmWl3FoZjvIWB6qR0BCEGn5FEskhICKEtTjfmqZho/?imgmax=800" width="276" height="418"></p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2861" border="0" alt="IMGP2861" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9XUYk_ezGI7ihyphenhyphen74aSkumZ82aWSM1hPtpEbsaZmf6jOe0C5I9QYAl702fahcq8rUyPTTA76J_OLivuyPMQ9JaDvoEGOzj9Y8HLqa07zcE-B3PgIVkqJnUQWL1LuW3W1GyiAZZj1-8fBP5/?imgmax=800" width="521" height="362"></p><p>Then add 2 cups 1/2 & 1/2</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2867" border="0" alt="IMGP2867" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUqTGYb3HXNsjk8l9UyznI8FrlnN9Tfl7nx0VdfgGcF_dIZa2F-KY_HDgVRc4S1v6-Nb_bF6aDpbfVIeQ50bYMw22QyxSLAzYqnG6QIQ12hrHqxyqT3A7-CMOMhqE9hM08Pl7fmS3oI7Jp/?imgmax=800" width="520" height="361"></p><p>Then 1/2 cup flour.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2869" border="0" alt="IMGP2869" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sW_Hl-dygwA/TgJUu4lnUcI/AAAAAAAAC1I/Bq3CPFTl7Mc/IMGP2869%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="520" height="361"></p><p>Then 1/4 cup butter… I also chop into about 1tbsp pieces so they melt evenly.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2872" border="0" alt="IMGP2872" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtbvAbMlqk9s_HqLhr0W8-fF4x4DjXCRBoTJsTpt76rQkmi4uUuR1P5Zp1UJmeIyFH2Um0byqrUm1TdyHO886yGFZsM5n-TcNbjzRKyfbW2E2a3lD9g6RabDi6_-LreVEUkBEmL6wBwq7Q/?imgmax=800" width="502" height="348"></p><p>Add 1/2 tsp salt & 1/4 tsp pepper</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2874" border="0" alt="IMGP2874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdzV9der9ZXvpbWc3hcREmj2PZXSAOuiKYIt7zmPJUzSF6FvwO-n5LsspguKk5c73hAw3ZIpVZuIvf3fzl1NgwQMM47UY4uVGLePuBF81vzrs-44NobxcMw1Rww0KK55uF8vYejuukBT9/?imgmax=800" width="517" height="359"></p><p>Then it will look like this mashed up mess…</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2873" border="0" alt="IMGP2873" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fhaLcXBMXiQ/TgJUwNBpi7I/AAAAAAAAC1U/_vSvcMigGhM/IMGP2873%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="544" height="378"></p><p> </p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2875" border="0" alt="IMGP2875" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLR3i4d3dP0mGXv21wcgRE5tG3JjlU-rdtWZt30ZWoLYUW8Z8gbKjsc4Fj3ZiwvjoIsMu6PLtQubXTuqDTSe4tcZNmHY3uMrOOKJWLrJvmJaOUrQy5f06qYzxgYzgBevjHyobeq4xqOiNq/?imgmax=800" width="590" height="409"></p><p>Heat this to boiling over medium-high heat… stirring constantly… once it gets to boiling continue to stir for 1 minute. It should have a slightly thinner consistency than an alfredo sauce or a gravy.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2880" border="0" alt="IMGP2880" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25O60gytSHEgB2UlyktpO7Q01qDZe9Jr-PG0OqhOI9QRVJeOGxpYTZczjLwhVfqS7fBbSjrS9HBMxPoZ3G9oWZkYWdvyi-qC3WHoLTUlAryPSL991RgybeW3vleAztXnnzo9jdWfsQM-8/?imgmax=800" width="614" height="426"></p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2882" border="0" alt="IMGP2882" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUymwM716DUXnEyqJfNcA0UAZPFId3AtpJDIwKryMgMTIKL5c7khUDnSFSdBhCmC33M_F7DsEj9YlVD4pEKoSH5k0v9Ctvuc7g4eeMrkpQi7JVZhh7y1gnYg_WQqmeOX_bEEm0znmL8hab/?imgmax=800" width="621" height="431"></p><p>Add chicken to flour/butter/broth mixture.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2884" border="0" alt="IMGP2884" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LXD6i0F3klQ/TgJUx80r-0I/AAAAAAAAC1k/XlCuqj_JeEU/IMGP2884%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="623" height="432"></p><p>Add the egg noodles.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2886" border="0" alt="IMGP2886" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IOizAUPd0IU/TgJUykn8IUI/AAAAAAAAC1o/gTMd_xzhm68/IMGP2886%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="610" height="423"></p><p>Add the broccoli.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2887" border="0" alt="IMGP2887" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_Erizl0oIGQ/TgJUzILb7xI/AAAAAAAAC1s/ncjFGD-x2G0/IMGP2887%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="606" height="420"></p><p>I add chow mein noodles, but almonds would also be good.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2889" border="0" alt="IMGP2889" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hgt960S4_U8/TgJUzfJmSMI/AAAAAAAAC1w/I8fKlwVi0UU/IMGP2889%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="623" height="432"></p><p>Give it all a good stir.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2891" border="0" alt="IMGP2891" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQLJhNxGa0qdZHLteNFd2uCO4U4p8fm6s8JVeGT5VZeF5NnjkziWEaecwAnD60I1ItX9z5u72ZY-BB6SN9OjKfdokfEbycXDdFtDJ07a0gO4M4cYnAP1eBpLQcXVknBZpMXdNEGKiaq693/?imgmax=800" width="617" height="428"></p><p>Put into a 2qt casserole. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese… I prefer the sharpest I can find, and fresh grated is better, but pre-bagged will work. Again, use whatever kind of cheese you prefer.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2893" border="0" alt="IMGP2893" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxXNrNdSxJg1cakyPLnU5hY1lrkKLbBMxqP8hUsbbjU5kvsElFbJsK01fSGPTkKloZp8H0sQWmtWn6Cp7kD2RF9PKzFYj24okhG_JiSvi7LZNCCslfJwyUXhyy_UEgzLjjqHyrzmuaS3Rm/?imgmax=800" width="596" height="413"></p><p>My feeling too is don’t skimp on the cheese…</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2896" border="0" alt="IMGP2896" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6DsuuLvFXXI/TgJU0kWrUHI/AAAAAAAAC18/jnvYVIzUJz8/IMGP2896%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="599" height="416"></p><p>Put in the oven and bake 25-30 minutes until hot & bubbly… serve with some nice rolls or bread, and a nice side salad.</p><p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP2897" border="0" alt="IMGP2897" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yfcITyiumVQ/TgJU1BPfIkI/AAAAAAAAC2A/01Ygg-VcIpY/IMGP2897%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="567" height="393"></p><p>Comfort food IS served!!</p><p><em>For these pictures I was making a double batch so if the pictures don’t match the measurements I mention go by the measurement. Full recipe below.</em></p><p>Terri’s Tetrazzini</p><p>7 oz spaghetti or egg noodles</p><p>2 cups chicken or turkey broth</p><p>2 cups half & half or whole milk</p><p>1/2 cup flour</p><p>1/4 cup butter</p><p>1/2 tsp salt</p><p>1/4 tsp pepper</p><p>1/2-1 cup broccoli, black olives, or peas (or any veggie you may prefer)</p><p>1/2 cup chow mein noodles (or almonds)</p><p>2 cups cut up cubed chicken or turkey</p><p>1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.</p><ol><li>Heat oven to 350. Cook & drain pasta according to package directions.</li>
<li>Mix broth, half & half, flour, butter, salt & pepper in at least a 4qt sauce pan (closer to 6 if you double the recipe). Heat to boiling over medium-high heat, stirring constantly… once at a boil continue to stir for one minute longer.</li>
<li>Stir in noodles, chicken, chow mein noodles, and veggie. Spread in ungreased 2 qt casserole. Sprinkle with cheese.</li>
<li>Bake uncovered 25-30 minutes until hot & bubbly.</li>
</ol>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-21515370078569726312011-06-23T00:00:00.000-07:002011-06-23T03:17:25.128-07:00Fit For A Ballerina…<p>I was so excited this year when my Mom asked me to make the ‘cake’ for my niece’s dance recital (usually it’s my Mom’s task)… I immediately began scouring the internet for ideas, and found <a href="http://partiesandholidays.blogspot.com/2009/06/ballet-cupcakes-and-wands.html" target="_blank">these</a>. </p> <p>I did mine in lavender to match my niece’s costume. They went together pretty quickly… I got tired of tracing them so I traced about 10 on my cardstock, and then scanned it to my computer, and then printed out 2 more sheets directly on the cardstock (I was making 24).</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3505" border="0" alt="IMGP3505" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXZw1-w0BYkIlbJhPx8Twtr0vuhkTGUIlCGc7zJK_tzt0h4Zqjry7iUjJUI0ZXRL993hsGUhm1e6Rnzk8Tm7Mmivw7ZXRObXxqtF2UEP1FofHt7pGWiidWA31AF1YZbFL5SE34ovlUk1e/?imgmax=800" width="498" height="346"></p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3507" border="0" alt="IMGP3507" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhK7uzcmH4yryuhn93K6FLsaakGp2fRsDQ6-v1TlUHLzA2XpjKaeBqylv0e00ljtB_eoEIvdKpWAmo6G2f2zqmZs13Je5KE5b5yrOM3TLR0kWbnoSZUmkkmz1eo-8OSm6EnFnTbDC6zjgX/?imgmax=800" width="343" height="443"></p> <p>Then I cut my tulle… the directions said to make them 5x10… the roll I bought at Michael’s was 6in so I just went with that… I also cut an extra piece of cardstock to 10 inches as a measuring guide to cut.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3508" border="0" alt="IMGP3508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH1LIsh8YyeG4b8NOzKZRwLaN-iFrH2Dl95T-8AYOijpiHcFmNKy5ouMr5y1eR-P2ZL0SNySk6uN8uqbXZjf7to8RFUvISPgSYrfI6TVfaxmLCq58f8qA6ILE3ZJ1T1KK1XSeZqZeqZFa_/?imgmax=800" width="520" height="361"></p> <p>Unfortunately, at this point I got so engrossed in making them that I stopped taking pictures… they were a bit labor intensive… I also found it easier to tape the lollipop stick on BEFORE doing the tulle on the back, and I used single sided tape for the stick. One other point is the ribbon I found was lace w/ pearls, and it really didn’t want to stick… I think a standard ribbon would work much easier. You can also find ribbon usually in the scrapbook section that is sticky on the back side so check around for that.</p> <p>They were a big hit, and my niece loved them!!</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3512" border="0" alt="IMGP3512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0dyFxnC7iBK02ICsXqaulXlcvnlAeBbfLIzNsKn_Gf-Dp3KfReVquBkUX9NlSPbJ5-TCdfBc74fn5yUbZXapOZnJW9vb8qW_m0KxcfMeDaBIeFSiFNgngIIgdSZu7rBMe7hqbVH6SaNm/?imgmax=800" width="320" height="531"></p> <p><a href="http://composinghallelujahs.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-to-make-paper-dress-cupcake-toppers.html" target="_blank">This is the link</a> with more detailed (video included) on making these with tissue paper instead of tulle.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-20539856133806607292011-06-22T06:58:00.001-07:002011-06-22T06:58:52.904-07:00Puff Pancake…<p>I’ve heard of puff pancakes before but have never attempted one… so after seeing on a <a href="http://3sonsplus1.blogspot.com/2011/06/celebrating-daddy.html" target="_blank">friends blog</a> she had made one for Father’s Day I was inspired to try one this morning… so after an <strike>quick</strike> exhaustive search of the internet I found this <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Old-World-Puff-Pancake" target="_blank">recipe</a> on the Taste Of Home website for one, and thought I’d give it a try…I was a little concerned that there was no baking powder, or soda listed, and wondered how it would puff but I think the 3 eggs achieve the puff!</p> <p>First preheat oven to 425</p> <p>Put 2tbsp butter in an oven proof 10 in skillet (I must confess I have no idea if this skillet is oven proof or not, but it’s still in tact). Place in pre-heated oven for 2-3 minutes until butter is melted.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3625" border="0" alt="IMGP3625" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cEkPoXOSC-I/TgH0--qc80I/AAAAAAAACzU/ky_d_ERaUi0/IMGP3625%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="444" height="262"></p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3636" border="0" alt="IMGP3636" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8RBt2HFtBBBAj_2EULUF368WS52Ng9VneLRLYaTHD6SKoGgJEk0g8lso5rOR6n3STHKMaJd21WUPONFu-dVUNXLQkrNSy9iE2eR3J3azWsvdkO7AGfz9SpQa4PkMwNrBs5kmeCeOdrDW/?imgmax=800" width="522" height="228"></p> <p>In the meantime put 3 eggs in a blender</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3627" border="0" alt="IMGP3627" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq3brt2zORsugg854wVV8A-NqCyXoSvklnNefqAUuCprpry4lv2pB-2tm__BYHb8RX8r9Axc1LWGlxrWu6-zHfMKmmeJHi3pCQerGyGuAg-LhrKeUoQzry1P1xOgEqZSXmY0hnIrKBbGLv/?imgmax=800" width="356" height="540"></p> <p>Add 3/4 cup flour</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3628" border="0" alt="IMGP3628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbE5_QOjJX6TICllfqn0DgiFkoTTr6OgIbEfKadTrLUhrELjAGOO0ak9B_QxQ9f7LWANau4PsB8gpu545ZGKc-dntND0tXqtsouowwnJK0ceIVGdu9i1RiFk8bfzAt5VJgi4IuACwR-B0i/?imgmax=800" width="307" height="465"></p> <p>Add 3/4 cup milk</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3630" border="0" alt="IMGP3630" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO13AvBKnyp-aeM3c8-ysb8mzNaVFm8EnEk2pRm9V-mPzLpHIGNyj3GDpSKW-dA7alsfWql2zSE_DLvhYiJDq3bndogMKj32e7SbbM4tOa8iWmh3kVDUB4hgMqd7kGqS8RN3j7o-0xGz8A/?imgmax=800" width="308" height="467"></p> <p>Add 1tsp nutmeg, and 2 tsp sugar.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3633" border="0" alt="IMGP3633" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qSu62_EbDNg/TgH1BYV6ZpI/AAAAAAAACzo/uXrkWL295CE/IMGP3633%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="520" height="361"></p> <p>Mix until well blended.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3634" border="0" alt="IMGP3634" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sN43PLRzsKY/TgH1B-Lr2sI/AAAAAAAACzs/7zan8bwM17k/IMGP3634%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="485" height="343"></p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3635" border="0" alt="IMGP3635" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifbheQhUZoF8HjwdKn_2vFQPg5eTU-0-58TvC9xkLmhD8UB7Z2CDettB9QFS8ERrmfpETAGFtaBRIkw6ou08gMihzZm_ZFl0oCY3073FVIdzVUBhDQG1_7R6_KUqrhQ2q_EMkrcTXG10L3/?imgmax=800" width="342" height="518"></p> <p>Remove skillet from oven… <strong><em>IMPORTANT PSA…</em></strong> remember when going to put back in oven that the handle is HOT!! I learned this the hard way with another recipe I did one time!!</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3644" border="0" alt="IMGP3644" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WBAiPiUGzAA/TgH1DiOa7nI/AAAAAAAACz0/jPQhXzLmo4k/IMGP3644%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="477" height="331"></p> <p>Pour mixture into skillet.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3639" border="0" alt="IMGP3639" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uFkVMd5Ud6Y/TgH1EMNWgRI/AAAAAAAACz4/PQjbwLTYGmQ/IMGP3639%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="559" height="393"></p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3643" border="0" alt="IMGP3643" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk39fW2MpdqoQaRW6MUkxnCfBgQQvoii2Z3JWb8kx__pJLlq17W7XGni5-nbC96dZX7VvGwfj0sl-iDlDazEeDEcI4y0hDgzN99A_O7yRF_OW9xZ-3br9jA6IKqWPlYTDO0fmjlHX4_Kzq/?imgmax=800" width="557" height="386"></p> <p> </p> <p>Place back in oven… WITH an oven mitt!!</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3644" border="0" alt="IMGP3644" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiCDOuyQKn7cm7TX1t8XRRCgMYiBJzT-M_Kmw_g7WeASAP1yJ7GW2vtAsecCOkDSCZdctP1iEKoDhnhDKfYA2EolsnhdF2qP6r5UBq0OL1F1-afVj0AjX0eiDVOYmgbrJpkIU3IBfH2llc/?imgmax=800" width="547" height="380"></p> <p>Don’t forget the oven mitt!!</p> <p>Bake for 20 minutes (original recipe says 16-18, but my oven took longer, and I think could have gone as long as 22-24 minutes so keep an eye on it).</p> <p>When I took out of the oven it immediately deflated a bit.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3646" border="0" alt="IMGP3646" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs5gLazVAARJmBTOYunf0tbQ1OMb5q7KaPt02cQNVeQkasmSa_2hduuI2ehVufo8lB0wYacj7_Ljtf9E57AzC2rU893kvCIsrDwNWlF-9IAV0H4XcolB_oCAXCD5tJ1r-u7FvkrYqL-Twz/?imgmax=800" width="568" height="400"></p> <p>I sprinkled with powdered sugar…</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3648" border="0" alt="IMGP3648" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcg0lVmIggyK0BDDwMc3_bYpbghhWTAYOuHHePFIeN_wShmaQsjbW2xkrHQLY8Y-svetkRYBZut5L22Qy-xB30VJRic2IsiZCmPqU22x92T_-wfJjCzZLhyvvJxbC_BVi5KV93QSQABAp/?imgmax=800" width="577" height="400"></p> <p>I also put my oven mitt OVER the handle so I was sure not to pick up the hot handle… I learned this the hard way… did I mention that??</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3649" border="0" alt="IMGP3649" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY40F5aEqkE2O7gVVu8blxTpChQY7FIb_z4jZXy-HKrf4IOmwBIvw6gdZ8iImJmRaNwvt6eyXVZE4ZAjvqzmwgvnSsfFOJVmpBgUlNdywRXwyAuDjOy26Be9gac09GppmGg23XHN2HmfRb/?imgmax=800" width="583" height="404"></p> <p>I sprinkled with cinnamon, extra powdered sugar, and maple syrup (the real stuff.. but that’s a matter of personal preference).</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3650" border="0" alt="IMGP3650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzcuIjzbbxURef0c3sWhy-5-H9VlnEApd0jGCApwTru2xvxnFLiFFnWkMIyvHxaFgx8-owIkICG-Ob_8-WkPrjkw3m6jlLVyZU6L4a9-ryIRsHWygtqWYf5RT_r4C6WIIdY9FSRgZbfMW6/?imgmax=800" width="344" height="425"></p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMGP3656" border="0" alt="IMGP3656" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpyeYX1D-lRV7G_7E7A9T2yTW93upvdfrM8GnzzRRMgL6Aw5RLB9inmPVlWmKXQcuH8tqt0wN401-FeSS9Cx_iwO_JrRdGgK3QLN0nOWi9ocxWw3fY8iaZiMPUkEHWpARnLHoRPBHYbst/?imgmax=800" width="344" height="521"></p> <p>My four year old LOVED this… she had 2 servings. I liked it but felt something was missing… I think made or topped with some roasted/baked or sautéed fruit would add that ‘extra’ something it needs. I could also seeing this be a base for a dinner type meal… Something sautéed like shrimp, or mushrooms, onions w/ chicken or something. I may play with it a bit in the future.</p> <p>For a printable view of the recipe go to the <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Old-World-Puff-Pancake" target="_blank">Taste of Home Link</a> & it can be printed there…</p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-60168307158151875232011-03-04T18:37:00.001-08:002011-03-04T18:37:47.483-08:00Paula’s Pound Cake<p>I made this once before, and LOVED it… it’s a Paula Deen recipe (so of course the first ingredient is 1/2 lb of butter…Ha-Ha).</p> <p>Her recipe can be found <a href="http://www.pauladeen.com/recipes/recipe_view/grandmother_pauls_sour_cream_pound_cake/" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/grandmother-pauls-sour-cream-pound-cake-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p>So, when I signed up to make dessert for this weeks small group, it didn’t take me long to figure out what to make (also, the majority of the ingredients you will have as staples in your kitchen so no extra trip to the grocery store).</p> <p>Preheat oven to 325.</p> <p>First, grease & flour a bundt pan… I know I said the other day I love the crisco sticks & I do for measured amounts of shortening… but for greasing I love the good old fashioned tub. I just scoop some on a paper towel, and rub it around (when using a bundt pan make sure you get in all the cracks… a bundt cake always brings to mind that scene in “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”… ‘this cake has a hole in it’).</p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2632" border="0" alt="IMGP2632" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TXGh6RxKdGI/AAAAAAAACt8/Mq7EMvSj9Iw/IMGP2632%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="280" height="383"></p> <p>Then sprinkle flour on top of the crisco, and hold the pan up… tapping each side, and rotating to get the flour covered all over as well.</p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2633" border="0" alt="IMGP2633" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtfVwUUA4guzl3cBT6laCwEcfSEf_ErsUiBrwzWonKXKLiGncFk9Mr9M5gpJgQajLNh7otQUCMsryKaQGrJ2a4q8nO1Lab3R9hi3uHA2NOmg5QaSdZYiq_DMPScSEMnIVMRv9j-Kufc1r/?imgmax=800" width="488" height="322"> </p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2634" border="0" alt="IMGP2634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqgg-aW3O8ALkAkkA1_fteMK2v7j87yyVWd0YjkWdYvhuJUeio2pdkxeylR_wT4_yBdbcfxKNXltsPhDcZ9g2SF1acbTv_GAPsf_qHSWKGEQWPH3Vsf92Utb3Ha7paMrU42F1oDnW51rex/?imgmax=800" width="492" height="341"> </p> <p> Make sure you shake as much excess flour off as you can, you don’t want white on the gorgeous golden brown color of this cake.</p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2639" border="0" alt="IMGP2639" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TXGh7SFiPHI/AAAAAAAACuI/dUZ40QS_gWs/IMGP2639%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="493" height="338"> </p> <p>Next cream together 2 sticks of butter, and 3 cups of sugar (amount of sugar can be adjusted to suit your taste… I did just under 3 cups… many of the reviews on the food network website say they did less sugar… I wonder if this would impact the crispy outside/soft inside texture).</p> <p> <img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2641" border="0" alt="IMGP2641" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TXGh7kOLb1I/AAAAAAAACuM/D9vCHnT0cLU/IMGP2641%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="480" height="330"> </p> <p>Then add 1 cup sour cream (again love my plunger measuring cup for this task). Just fill it up & pop it out!</p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2642" border="0" alt="IMGP2642" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TXGh7xiLtBI/AAAAAAAACuQ/Sh9oFXBD7A0/IMGP2642%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="331" height="482"> </p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2644" border="0" alt="IMGP2644" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TXGh8OyEErI/AAAAAAAACuU/Ztlk-XNoX4s/IMGP2644%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="602" height="413"> </p> <p>Beat until combined.</p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2648" border="0" alt="IMGP2648" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TXGh8rg2ZYI/AAAAAAAACuY/AGZKY4bIyJY/IMGP2648%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="576" height="395"> </p> <p>Then sift 3 cups flour, and 2tsp baking soda ( I don’t know about you but I’m always paranoid I’ll using baking powder when a recipe calls for baking powder, and vice versa… I always check the recipe & what I’m using 3-4 times just to be sure).</p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2649" border="0" alt="IMGP2649" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TXGh81FpIZI/AAAAAAAACuc/M4FbEpUxrh8/IMGP2649%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="530" height="364"> </p> <p>Now alternate adding 1 beaten egg, and flour mixture, beating after each addition. Repeat 6 times with each egg. I have to have the 6 eggs set aside or I’ll loose count.</p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2650" border="0" alt="IMGP2650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqCWS6-OZhACuNe_UtJd7S_9x2Y5MtbVqfXripmx17rQfODocFs4Zvlsae9j4UmaWRUyTjEoVp3iLle_fiZR5X0kDvdwmCNWz-aPtWOFznjcfo8-_g_9FWobSuKPsuBJh1YbIUuAXvF57/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="495"></p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2652" border="0" alt="IMGP2652" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk_FPniuCS_I3ke135be9Gua3yCC_vgQH21Qnv7nPd8mBen9uScxmFUm5r-iwLrPmmi3UTndQtSb4xZPN8F4HGE4a7OwTgEe9uTPgFhhY7RkdG3JjX8jfda5EFlaGxDzKZOfML1ZJwwG8Q/?imgmax=800" width="486" height="334"> </p> <p>Add 1 tsp vanilla (also can add 1tsp other flavored extract… for this batch I did almond, but orange, and lemon would also work well). </p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2655" border="0" alt="IMGP2655" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TXGh9lqteaI/AAAAAAAACuo/EZwSvmxMMX0/IMGP2655%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="342" height="498"> </p> <p>Beat for a couple more minutes.</p> <p> <img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2653" border="0" alt="IMGP2653" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSIhnx9aQ7cuN0GVk-WR_8pv8PuT4uVvCOzOez4JZJTK7JHtJ3Ie7iBZH5vWb_PhFLeKdVoZvDNRBHQm4-2j-bSIwgh34OzOY9JHyh8edeNHGV45nepkzkW1ObS1BH4UXlAuJt12BvZQJM/?imgmax=800" width="495" height="340"></p> <p> Pour into prepared bundt or cake pan.</p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2657" border="0" alt="IMGP2657" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TXGh-C1fY0I/AAAAAAAACuw/_lHVnh-Nnv0/IMGP2657%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="399" height="645"> </p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2658" border="0" alt="IMGP2658" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1VeyHfeLPC5jtRPVHaInMgb_El7MfzZ26225Pslfs0Riw7I-WhZfwAvTR3IBKUBu1-yhZYTE84Ujy-SaAZfua2zAUIBop9oeQy2yL5nEXJaXP8AwYgzk2CyZuq5iZCwR6SIJ0RCbIeiwU/?imgmax=800" width="598" height="410"> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Bake for 1 hour & 20 minutes. Be sure it’s golden in color, springs back when pushed, and a cake tester or toothpick come out clean when inserted. Last time I made this I took it out a bit early because I thought it was done (passed all of the above tests), and it was pretty much done, but would have done better with that extra time. </p> <p>Sprinkle w/ powdered sugar if desired, serve as is, or with whipped cream & berries! We had it with vanilla ice cream & chocolate sauce at small group.</p> <p>Unfortunately, in a rush to get to small group I forgot to get a picture of the finished product!! Next time… I promise!!</p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-30248143232824411192011-02-25T16:44:00.001-08:002011-02-25T16:44:17.676-08:00Whoopie Pies<p>Growing up these are something I always remember my Mom making… particularly the filling (my Mom made the best frosting)… they’re just a little crispy on the outside with yummy sweet frosting on the inside… kind of like a homemade devil dog… </p> <p>As I’ve gotten older I’ve realized these are unique to certain areas of the country… New England in particular. Do you have whoopie pies where you live? Do you call them whoopie pies or something else?</p> <p>So, on this snowy, cold, raw night we’re going to get cozy, and have a sleepover with my nieces & nephew or ‘the cousins’ as they’re known around here, and I thought what better to go with our homemade pizzas than Whoopie Pies. YUMMMY.</p> <p>In my adult baking life I’ve tried many-a-recipe trying to recapture the taste of Mom’s. None have come close… until I found these on <a href="http://www.bakerella.com/whoopie-pies/" target="_blank">Bakerella's</a> website (<em>if you’ve never spent any time over there I would highly recommend checking it out… the cake pops are on my list of things to try).</em></p> <p>There are variations to this recipe of course (in the fall I make pumpkin ones… YUM). But, for this cold February day we’re making chocolate.</p> <p>This is my ‘go-to’ cookbook. It has all the recipes I download from the internet… I’ll do a tutorial on it at some point. Anyway, under my cookies, bars tab is my Whoopie Pie recipe.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMkuVXTEI/AAAAAAAACpo/iylFuek5EFY/s1600-h/IMGP25623.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2562" border="0" alt="IMGP2562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8VYH14elBs94wwwoeHBuI_OgxzVBeMGDBvj2JCFzWXg5ePO-RSerxSZUROL2GVE5XhbsGXSwSuzVljHhDCzEdDUKzfJ_8BVMac4rjNHcvUsCZhlDETvBxn0duqSwFoo-5do6cSMr32OVC/?imgmax=800" width="302" height="440"></a> </p> <p>First, preheat oven to 375 (adjust for your oven as needed… I find 400 is better on mine to get the crispy). Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper (optional but recommended… mainly for me b/c it makes clean-up so much easier.) Also at this point take a stick of butter out of the fridge to get to room temp for the filling.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMlpYgL6I/AAAAAAAACpw/EzGAK6tNUSg/s1600-h/IMGP25634.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2563" border="0" alt="IMGP2563" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLanmBqk82WgyjO4BMRj3LnkZBkBnYtsZWFU1_RgfH3rTxaTkO5hnhYwa3MuDhcMycEeYHV1TFI7VMy2u615UGlNlgoU_o4w9-npFGpOO2dNALtLLsO92e2O8LNJH3cUEOZ1SALJovV-Cf/?imgmax=800" width="539" height="374"></a> </p> <p>Next in a mixing bowl sift <font size="6">1</font> 2/3 cup flour, 2/3 cup cocoa 1 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt (if using unsalted butter… if salted butter omit the salt here).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMmHa6X_I/AAAAAAAACp4/QFx7X4fuBTc/s1600-h/IMGP25643.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2564" border="0" alt="IMGP2564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFvxpu40QXSPvDoyaHcPtyigkm-LXDzL2gTa7Fi9k6zTtZqMkEXQUwKHfSM-B6VS0ztEP3cY0QbnpV_FqfbdHZ-XaORR3FuYiW79sLN0O3A20fk879cSmIS1J0tBejB_44S7VXfQT1qveg/?imgmax=800" width="537" height="369"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FaDqlb44XcRAlKfTG8ePlNbru5NAccXpbK0pXt4aQzA5n9Q_aMIamNv19VyXsNkyxQ-01fuT07gYenCQkQiuh9Ykio78J3PCuyKb37X_vW2Eo72fhD2N2BsER4u4ozK4qNT9oy2dNW7K/s1600-h/IMGP25653.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2565" border="0" alt="IMGP2565" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMnPBXjCI/AAAAAAAACqE/hsICFhnpg2o/IMGP2565_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="357" height="520"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKLqejWb-Q2Xd6XPGzvvFI2Pc1fr9GKoBn2leP3a7HB27uLpXRPXJkNMf5u4ReD_qk1M3NGocI-fl7aZR7X20EJ4V1zAS0Zp2k-HAywECe6mY5NQ-qT6iwvReDSdDCRHVggNjun_XC0sc/s1600-h/IMGP25663.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2566" border="0" alt="IMGP2566" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMnhb7OjI/AAAAAAAACqM/a1MmOT2bfhE/IMGP2566_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="429" height="295"></a> </p> <p>Get your helper to sift for you…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMobNDYxI/AAAAAAAACqQ/9n3vWCrzkFc/s1600-h/IMGP25673.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2567" border="0" alt="IMGP2567" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMonQm-_I/AAAAAAAACqU/sJ2YPFt5GFo/IMGP2567_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="317" height="461"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMpMAlMdI/AAAAAAAACqY/vshWI88r7zw/s1600-h/IMGP25683.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2568" border="0" alt="IMGP2568" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPhg8FT465JXNwr_YVdndniNEgTn7DB0gFwWzhyphenhyphen8APsGLedqi7LNpNjRzS-H3IqqETAZ_w0qDMZwi3cWIEegJ-Errd_E83PYCbJtDx5qq-puz26nbocffiFaukltHlAeqQWv_OU56VEaQ/?imgmax=800" width="309" height="450"></a> </p> <p>Then you’ll get a beautiful shade of brown (hmmm… I wonder if Lowe’s could match it for me as a wall color… sorry… I digress).</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzWFqHJDJXNwN_lz7kMY1f56RzMH90dXG-YRrGluWTONOHiGk37AeihrDYMJ-P4nYApI3iDtv53IWm24opcW4hyphenhyphenq9M9OyxwOhN0jbF2hjWXe3pOxg_mTwTG8vjsCoXRpM1sZG-ksMu9Bd1/s1600-h/IMGP25703.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2570" border="0" alt="IMGP2570" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMpzHrcwI/AAAAAAAACqk/WMAd9GIzMkk/IMGP2570_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="448" height="308"></a> </p> <p>Next add 4 tbsp unsalted butter, and 4 tbsp vegetable shortening to your mixer bowl.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMqCXZ_8I/AAAAAAAACqo/3cRpm7qQus8/s1600-h/IMGP25713.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2571" border="0" alt="IMGP2571" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglaxOCBR52Ux-MtWJW8RRT0fqeznp0cJdvuZb6UR5LG2gCxPR3ML2It8G5qLquEeURZ2orcHFMPAeah9PrSEsNcapYBSlTPRg18lII7bmHdqgtBZNWO39zeN110x_vu1ory_Dg7rwFfcXm/?imgmax=800" width="463" height="318"></a> </p> <p>Take a picture of your cute helper (optional… but recommended)</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBLETl_Uy4t7X10l2TIhvEUxWeqi0qQ0NuIZPqvUwnmq52j62vwbS6j1Y1Ks3fF3Urx3TTeolJKuh3YnyweWo5Jf4F-C9qE1zdGXCcdmklyWAj4lDK9B2hj9r_IxGavEqUAEeKrDPmu2PV/s1600-h/IMGP25723.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2572" border="0" alt="IMGP2572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuWOIzcQLDz5VJXyhcyO-H9BfHCSTr7-gI9A-quUfSxUq8dV04da84svdPSiDLLHkq0dYk_Gomrk6VyAADFQUMMSvBHwoKIe0oUsIwpkRxUSiMQqbv37ZoIMKupwHuD_deIJ_vxo-5c7Z/?imgmax=800" width="298" height="434"></a> </p> <p>Measure out 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar (recipe calls for dark I’ve only ever used light so it’s up to you).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMrQoxwsI/AAAAAAAACq4/0AVEVXki8tY/s1600-h/IMGP25743.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2574" border="0" alt="IMGP2574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KFPUarQyNv_i0dfomHJNDeV_JHPgRH2Vjvr1ebD5osU6HwraHGLotAKCDInpwi5EJMjzuwMbp0rJGY89UCQsBbMwb9vHlUXWCxZjCW_FO-yyelOZBrwDjclVQgmvNyzr7oc4m8onNP1U/?imgmax=800" width="415" height="285"></a> </p> <p>Make sure your helper doesn’t eat too much of the spilled brown sugar.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tl1o8izfJziF30n6quw06bO7BLxdsrV3rIEK8o3dr6XrG8WNSo_Te5HWycYGX5RiHQmt2dop25roEA0vmRtj-20JJS0J6PEMcBSu1CKF_ZM52qC8Kk2DXCIJlupodjabGIBwmHSK5P0a/s1600-h/IMGP25733.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2573" border="0" alt="IMGP2573" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6xJmhQHFrZLB-bbXPWu-dgL-p916x5pD-VOuhXlMvJKJgmrrbInfIrQ2PactMCtsyBm3HaySMuoACB6dF7Cz3IG6d6T4cthoxlB2tSgsoGsDxtO73P-D1mli4jxSf_Zeo4RB69egGNlc/?imgmax=800" width="352" height="513"></a> </p> <p>Add brown sugar to butter/shortening.</p> <p><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2575" border="0" alt="IMGP2575" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMsTu5apI/AAAAAAAACrM/5qDlCvMMkMM/IMGP25754.jpg?imgmax=800" width="479" height="329"> </p> <p>Mix until combined, and then beat for 3 minutes.</p> <p><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2578" border="0" alt="IMGP2578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93nOSWiJWFC5aAzfMHp2auL_LslEV_LLmd-cTvbDa9JCxOGj4KjGem4GISx37LnAGB7095qP6OCPVDYh9p8jpxxJ9O55I08XYDIrUN5rql3QKa9Y2nccMv-kskDSJj2VEvU8sWUWMdz-x/?imgmax=800" width="490" height="336"> </p> <p>Add egg, and 1 tsp vanilla</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZGp5sWAvSHHOFMqUgdSa1hNjPIs5K4Nh0nDe5PTt2Xj1K0m8DFghnlDtrvCusHhcRWl_Yx0I_kiteqqpu0pH9KS-TdusY8gW_-frxJ-BN06pSb2okte8wV7VL-9QQiBWv1TCwHe4TNRx/s1600-h/IMGP25793.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2579" border="0" alt="IMGP2579" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituJKNmyebskzSj5ok5xFZj731O8TXNjc7ituGdNbDDzagZhFIQ63TicdXVEiHC2vY3Iwmu7FcpGQ8I6Z82pijoRwJfmB-gVf6F14ofhQmc4Ok4rGIUhTyJ8RyxVTxokIc5qNgtST_sCUX/?imgmax=800" width="498" height="342"></a> </p> <p>Make sure your helper gets the majority of the egg in the mixing bowl.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqI6uy5d0uZ7b5IKGxN2aML8eLMOlJwnIAfvFlFrnshqDwZEnwW7AspPb4s1Mb6HyKblx2srt6GsuMSNPGoQ-SpzGspStC_lDLD75WgubNBWZJDiThOoElLKIa1DZfl7poE2jUUJTx_jLF/s1600-h/IMGP25813.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2581" border="0" alt="IMGP2581" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2I1LcJATy6h982jr6dEcqzvOMA-MO66_bkIxNh5htZhSFzN3rTcxJT0DZmAN661KS2M9Fawtd2RYRRLlGV1V8TKdALwCPJj6dUk0V5kpO_gR40PmDMrW70nzdqi1SYssVBx5rjllK0bo/?imgmax=800" width="513" height="393"></a> </p> <p>Beat for another 2 minutes.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFAEpvRB97Cdc9sq_RN6tgs9R_BA0-4Cm0vC_hnq3C6QZFzlETPIdW2IVcXKa8o4KEuYq_od6q0Xuk_MNQHHsZmFve8GK4WLbP_MmErFQs8PXXIw2V6dIbY-zpZK5r8vdniM-IBAsKI2f/s1600-h/IMGP25874.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2587" border="0" alt="IMGP2587" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMuaQWzqI/AAAAAAAACro/IdkAd8mGMF4/IMGP2587_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="519" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Then measure out 1 cup milk.</p> <p>Add 1/2 cup of milk, and 1/2 the cocoa/flour mixture to mixer on low speed, and combine. Repeat with the last half.</p> <p>WARNING… a cloud of cocoa will form, and engulf your kitchen… but it’s cocoa, and it smells good so no worries.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3H6JMIkV79WEnGc_LEEn4cx1qhzLxiJOt4rx1Nfz1Qb9gbGfl9tqcyfg6Rpb-WbCIIVDSYUcHZMEExhMCLx_n5WblAwS4vn6VPBweQbYuMpBlW7XRUxk9jLJGldiBVIpJTP_zZVeu0kTl/s1600-h/IMGP25884.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2588" border="0" alt="IMGP2588" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMvL0R7xI/AAAAAAAACrw/qgxEXfouKjE/IMGP2588_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="408" height="588"></a> </p> <p>Now you have a gooey… chocolaty… yummy…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMveyt2FI/AAAAAAAACr0/rF-5kpplYjA/s1600-h/IMGP25993.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2599" border="0" alt="IMGP2599" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMvhbE7kI/AAAAAAAACr4/d4-E0rNlsBI/IMGP2599_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="540" height="371"></a> </p> <p>I also love to use my Pampered Chef cookies scoops for this part. You can use the 1tbsp one for smaller whoopie pies, I prefer the 2 tbsp ones, but it’s up to you.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMv6Q1-XI/AAAAAAAACr8/F_1E-Q4fiSk/s1600-h/IMGP26003.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2600" border="0" alt="IMGP2600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0Hb1ToTHIp6wI1MHi0Zy8hWERyzkEdratOfB_VVO1aJxOPIqtwmUB6lcCc-wcCFgFsjT6YJGBLyVgPGiqx8T1y8yaNfOsh0_4WhtWUaXD0A4ncxsd-AJMyQRpFX1mbQP4VI0PRqIvhfW/?imgmax=800" width="336" height="489"></a> </p> <p>If doing the 1tbsp you can fit 3 across on a standard cookie sheet, if doing the 2tbsp you can fit 2 across.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMwRfgr3I/AAAAAAAACsE/1rMdL0qULsA/s1600-h/IMGP26016.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2601" border="0" alt="IMGP2601" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw0ZJ28ZXuNI1_q3Fz54iK8ptKp7V60-DRpbwFJ283WY1yzVAIFmN7YeqjRVT40wQ58ZWDDkqCjd6g0Ppq48wc2gNWkBr0pQ8fztFx36wQ_SsuHFjZvmQXz52JPI7kUtHQLcomvVs6qhwS/?imgmax=800" width="358" height="519"></a> </p> <p>Recipe calls for baking them for 10 minutes. I find I have to live them in for more than 20, but that may be my oven, so start at 10, and check them. If they are shiny or glistening at all they’re not done. They should be springy to the touch. Take out, and leave on cookie sheets for 5 minutes, and them move to cooling rack.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62BPsj6GOGpVq8G8ltpgE0BjSbcPPtKZ7O3nOMmIPN882CW8MpcN0bvrLJJjmoWV5AlU_bfpnj80naMgAblFFXK9UmbMv7xES1aWsz-vODhYbm5k9JwVnVgl9uf7vS_r-QOYLYzpHI-AZ/s1600-h/IMGP26023.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2602" border="0" alt="IMGP2602" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMxNGXEdI/AAAAAAAACsQ/lEgKqQhBheM/IMGP2602_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="483" height="374"></a> </p> <p>Ok.. now for the gooey filling. I use a standard buttercream for the filling which is very sweet. You can use whatever kind of frosting/filling you prefer. Bakerella uses a peanut butter filling, a cream cheese would also be good.</p> <p>So, for my go to buttercream…</p> <p>Combine 1/2 cup butter (room temp), 1 cup shortening (don’t you just LOVE this pre-measured sticks from Crisco??) in mixer, and beat until combined.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVa0cWhUmgPkynEIYD9SaLozVFiOpwnhAJhRyNZIvfT93qIK2sMo5u1rltQNPggHbtPsQ4x-_p_p2dMdojlVfxHM-zRJ0JH97vUBN7q1JfNs9kLcIF-Jo41M2d87ZUSePmC6hjS6WLDVsy/s1600-h/IMGP26033.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2603" border="0" alt="IMGP2603" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF4rqfri8d0jxIRqonRlbRtS5_ZATLXIW4TgpqMrCjyRRHlg2WdFPmch1JlmxJ-130qOjmaBz6A5YGPVFJXqrqhTtZrQMOhkJdTE_HL4FJzjsywwRsxcuiQHvpxCzall0jy5o9pfmgJDDq/?imgmax=800" width="615" height="361"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSgXzZb1X9frUgHYMP8DIQ37I0TLmpIRwF6mbkL5fvJVFWIwZDHKIdGV6vUMhxvg2o0P4taeNkn8gHNOcdyJA6Ufw0oG7kgmoB181elPxYlLRnBN2fDxbviQE5PcBwk8mnuzeYKSXBa6_X/s1600-h/IMGP26064.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2606" border="0" alt="IMGP2606" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgng_STnzc2hmokQne7qLJnQ_z18ERhYNE-yuhDDjszqdRHHbvCQ5qQdHiHNSaM5YtO1luUjqoeK3pF2FpjNj6jqDut-shIxr-CzdlMTJZbeRSS85FUOSk03jmHnSNs080ofjg-8jGeTiWm/?imgmax=800" width="604" height="418"></a> </p> <p>Add 1tsp vanilla (there is a clear vanilla you can buy so this won’t affect the whiteness of the buttercream, but I find it doesn’t change it that much, and I prefer using pure ingredients when possible).</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzPlEPcpCBdiTebfxHyOzQKXcb3PoACIX5uC5ZbWbB84w1tbIq0QggjNBEoxtNGCw5kIZ3ib3nqzLJTP7zOlCVQ53mHsEeRV0hfrYRnA7a4wz4lav-k1-g4pe2zckI14HvXtUulcoy5w1/s1600-h/IMGP26073.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2607" border="0" alt="IMGP2607" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMylqmbVI/AAAAAAAACso/MqFGkfOHWx4/IMGP2607_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="656" height="450"></a> </p> <p>Then add 1/4 cup of milk (more or less depending on the consistency you want… you can also substitute water here).</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMyxeUoLI/AAAAAAAACss/JAEaSlorkDA/s1600-h/IMGP26103.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2610" border="0" alt="IMGP2610" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMzcZEGoI/AAAAAAAACsw/kQ97sb47FbI/IMGP2610_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="598" height="410"></a> </p> <p>Mix milk in slowly as it will splash, once combined turn speed up to beat the mixture together.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMzpoJ94I/AAAAAAAACs0/21mRk_QXbE4/s1600-h/IMGP26113.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2611" border="0" alt="IMGP2611" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhMzyNJSVI/AAAAAAAACs4/b-0Z4gIm3Ko/IMGP2611_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="621" height="426"></a> </p> <p>Then add 2lb bag of confectioner sugar ( I actually use about 1/2- 3/4 of a bag, and adjust for the consistency I want… move sugar will make a thicker consistency, less sugar will make a runnier consistency). Just like with the milk, add slowly, and at a low speed unless you want a cloud of conf sugar. A great tip to keep the sugar dust from covering your mixture is to put a wet paper towel on top of it.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PA8DlmiKuzbgEFqmjMnPUqjziPKDTPhur49gMZybi-2p6wS4mUnmtqte1cjm-vcILbh3iGsa2t1jAmv7222uEv71aoPhHHli_TW7zOAS_g_b-CjTi5xTXZTJ2AYYpgNpgkDOUcjLHQWA/s1600-h/IMGP26123.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2612" border="0" alt="IMGP2612" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtcL5fofVt-CF_n8YOXubZzfxWrPCmnedJ73c8tbAP_kPKAnIJG0cECKmH5-M3ow-tj1z5YFQmtl8ps4mV8MEb8sW1pzn6hzZec6YMXZruosnLHdttNaEBXSIfSjzwHb5T7T4F-iUdyYz/?imgmax=800" width="396" height="577"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQMXjU_rJ-o0_n7nid2KO4NETrdn_-7zZj1pXUPItJjDhaTWxvgrWhIL154vBy661rE-DBzCGSG45Z5tuvS5j68XunJ3lZ5uol6QPwx3-pBg3bihJqELvecNPmhEJxAljznTU2AChbZhD/s1600-h/IMGP26153.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2615" border="0" alt="IMGP2615" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsxbeNCQq7OWXNTPm2Q4evRoKUAjMJAKY_ypY6h1Q1EhqRFf1fcwr6uEgJN2eQme3sJ9C8LyhzweEvLONjDEFMewzPpA-rcyRitXHSiKYzKmtoJajfXUXYbTQar-vJJGZpjSbe6ZWtNhSz/?imgmax=800" width="544" height="373"></a> </p> <p>On the cooling rack I flip over half of the cakes, and try to align with tops of similar size.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBR0z1gJ0C-eGYd8-Q0U_4jXk9ISCuUU0Avn9txDQzoUoWJrBnuvRidd-uujvvVbKODuZ40veOsddzgbloNsFHb_AiNKcwry4KYp16VzXyEqCfUEb8_DpOFYmb9690cwBB475SkAdu0rO/s1600-h/IMGP26163.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2616" border="0" alt="IMGP2616" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2j0mMwXkMXJGZ-GTk5JetVokB8wmTboa1BZANdBhx2PiScgdWYC5bwLwkrSSJHx1Am7wb_OeWwlI-OaVFm5i9uzXOynmlVvSulzB9laJnS8ejxnX2_gxLh2L6loAGPeQm0sJBqYk0Mi9s/?imgmax=800" width="534" height="481"></a> </p> <p>A simple way to do the filling is to fill a pastry bag, or ziploc (with a corner cut off), and a star or round tip, and pipe or swirl on that way. </p> <p>For today I used my favorite frosting tool… I have no idea what it’s called… it’s a “Wilton” tool for cake decorating… it’s a bent knife/spatula… It spreads very easily & nicely.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHiZjFbZxNqYyrx7bwpBg4cCWljTFUWTmVLoFSSUUROix40jYtZIdY44MDqKvh39SBKmgwNDqCyqIrW1JMjLbHL33ClByZU_i6V8TOsGVUvqkWpbwTLOmsm1qSQijF3foFNLhSA9-DjcB0/s1600-h/IMGP26183.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2618" border="0" alt="IMGP2618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlzAqZvUpDPZ0pHxb7xpK0Z2jhOgRWZjPTR5yKDwOFQCPwhJtwL4t5cXC1ZkZorxskA2YQP7yaIUqq_WkoObLJFlNbwl9ZSqnC-D-eUS6YmszwfKT9apsrg2LmOk-9gZy8ddd8iclTo88e/?imgmax=800" width="546" height="407"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieETzr2ol-JEWZPj5w8FghdgEuXSaQf8J7z4aWlyJOosQ6aPniZbYghCsbTC82zBTEjeSI3b0U12pbzs0kxBEmgUVcMjEvQRxAky2jIbjQv8Qbh9OI4ZSVu5xIBqPML-T0ili8N33A4evL/s1600-h/IMGP26213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2621" border="0" alt="IMGP2621" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhM25RLTTI/AAAAAAAACtg/jAdKojMowpw/IMGP2621_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="495" height="507"></a> </p> <p>Adjust the amount of frosting as desired…some like a good ole’ dollop, while others prefer a shmear… do what feels right.</p> <p>Yummy…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhM3G7RD1I/AAAAAAAACtk/EtqCLBfv8i8/s1600-h/IMGP26273.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2627" border="0" alt="IMGP2627" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLD2DCoZcuPdOKZvE4bJ34LyWT6hXiPEPZ5ZckDXOt65bc34XQouN1Jkk0ok7-aqgi5gT7GBqdysweJz2cCGT3F6GfYNK5i5mceCKuSJegJu122oM-jUVk_tkTg0f6uOUtujNhaOs7kvCX/?imgmax=800" width="576" height="395"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhM3onW5xI/AAAAAAAACts/j-0ZMnqqX3o/s1600-h/IMGP26263.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2626" border="0" alt="IMGP2626" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWhM30yNBCI/AAAAAAAACtw/TeMlQcMoWX0/IMGP2626_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="359" height="473"></a> </p> <p>This MUST be enjoyed w/ a tall glass of ICE cold milk…</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUrWAV91N7FseKfzNVhxeC5FhIynmX6AkCuIjx1LbnqKN0-6aUdRlrqbOylNkjGgKcmIHj_bZcoIm0XJ0appbt5N5_HBwkih6MxmXQSiwiZCv_E-wjE-i8_bm3CqkJ__4JfN7bM0jc_3kE/s1600-h/IMGP26293.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMGP2629" border="0" alt="IMGP2629" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vonL8KDXQ708UgHDPVFwOEpqZ2V6rd3pjStaOrFRKBBG9Hf2W8VS262RXLM4wQGC7xC4szOieEZN8O5HzEQVKI5yteSEoYiVOYQtPtXxaFhnEWsEwMyGQqRhXjCfyncE6A4Dd4VJYvz2/?imgmax=800" width="428" height="481"></a></p> <p>Whoopie Pies</p> <p>1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour<br>2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder<br>1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda<br>1/2 teaspoon salt<br>4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature<br>4 tablespoons vegetable shortening<br>1 cup packed dark brown sugar<br>1 egg<br>1 teaspoon vanilla<br>1 cup milk <p>Preheat oven to 375 degrees line sheets w/ parchment paper. (Take butter out of fridge for filling to come to room temperature. </p> <p>In a small to medium mixing bowl, sift together, flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt. </p> <p>In mixer bowl, blend butter, shortening and sugar with a mixer on low until just combined. Then beat for 3 minutes. </p> <p>Add egg and vanilla and beat for two more minutes. </p> <p>On low speed add half of the flour mixture and half of the milk until incorporated. Repeat with remaining flour and milk and beat until combined. </p> <p>Using a tablespoon, drop batter on baking sheet two inches apart. Bake for about 10-20 minutes depending on your oven. Until pies spring back when pressed gently, and are no longer glistening.</p> <p>Remove from oven and cool for about five minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Buttercream Filling (Can also be used for cakes & cupcakes)</p> <p>1/2 cup butter (1 stick… room temperature)</p> <p>1 cup shortening (I don’t recommend butter flavored)</p> <p>1/4 cup milk (adjust for correct consistency)</p> <p>1 tsp vanilla (can also add 1 tsp of flavored extract depending on what you’re using the buttercream for… almond, lemond, rose, etc)</p> <p>2 lbs conf sugar (sifted if using to decorate).</p> <p>Cream butter, and shortening. Add milk (at low speed), and vanilla. Mix until blended. At low speed add conf sugar until you get to desired consistency, scraping the bowl as you go.</p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-18407673818722839632011-02-23T05:14:00.001-08:002011-02-23T05:14:50.234-08:00Love This…<p>I saw this idea a few years back in <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/index.html" target="_blank">Real Simple</a> magazine… the idea was to use an over the door shoe organizer for all those accessory cords (you know for your ipod, your camera, your camcorder, etc). I thought it was great, but those items in my home took up about 3 pockets, but now I had this convenient over the door organizer. I’m not a real organized person but every once in awhile I find something that works that I love. This has helped with our getting out the door routine.</p> <p>So… in hanging this I’ve found all sorts of wonderful things to stash there that you made need at the last minute before you run out the door.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVYItC7juM48cYKi_eCtE9RqPpd3qt4890UKfeVlr2JWE44T4HxABjfZbl_TlQBuhgv8D8fSqoFcP3tqAsLlJFIpeg0slWZ0U3jwkC7DZ0NWEqCMOduZcN61kXrJUY7NJdNVJNXOoNr7dv/s1600-h/IMGP2553%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2553" border="0" alt="IMGP2553" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgku9_XveTusLn6xxCDm0SSC0LkAhbydZB3phKqVrZV8G9N9KW14i57WWCQldAcnABYuS-1ypcmZAQHQrYK4nx9bNVdmAZvOJe_GrmuJT-fVCM6pSqOfEyYKabGXVoDMpuR2k57N9l_qjie/?imgmax=800" width="347" height="506"></a> </p> <p>The bottom pockets are my daughter’s shoes… this way they’re at her level, and easy for her to get them, AND put them away which she loves, and is so proud of herself.</p> <p>Several pockets (out of reach of little hands) I have filled w/ all those annoying cords</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEOFYYtHSbe_wtMMOLYRWxDbW1ruC2Qf4lJ689xwhafESjFOBb_AbSalRB6H_uNOKDxMwDraov21Rbvq651ndV7ZeiCGE7zU1mLUI0NIUjoiEZnIE87mjUbcnNW7ne97VhT6NA8kxwGgR/s1600-h/IMGP2554%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2554" border="0" alt="IMGP2554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerlmoBDcWgQVzQy1wqfunwJ25U4jaR18zgKjp-zIZiyEMAtboSRSkopGMrPkRxcCCPQzOe_2DnDsasbMCm76JDlKwc80708NP4QeVzhS0tG07gS3oorcNFaMQLf9mTdCUBMyyeD8Ya13N/?imgmax=800" width="488" height="335"></a> </p> <p>Then about third row up (I switch this out seasonally)… Right now those pockets hold her hats, and mittens (no more digging around for matches).</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWUIQ0dUqoI/AAAAAAAACpU/pJCcgKokDEs/s1600-h/IMGP2555%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2555" border="0" alt="IMGP2555" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWUIRZjBnPI/AAAAAAAACpY/BLf1lTaSYFM/IMGP2555_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="496" height="341"></a> </p> <p>Then once the warmer weather comes around (it WILL come eventually) I put the sunscreen, bug spray, and sunglasses here.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWUIRmoDFCI/AAAAAAAACpc/3CpJMHA3p7Q/s1600-h/IMGP2557%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2557" border="0" alt="IMGP2557" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYh9W3DXDoH-mb3F58l2H1GE5COkeZh_0ghWAzxKjgjz6Dr1EFWOYaGdZeVhXtBdG6JNVapTjYlaSpBZABsoqKoIy0eQC9jeu6IinxZ_VkYfVLmAklazIr5P1gkB4gtzpWDra2IgpXrzqy/?imgmax=800" width="512" height="351"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>This is one little organization idea that has made my life easier.</p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-52686970462413025042011-02-22T13:59:00.001-08:002011-02-22T13:59:55.395-08:00WOW Puffs part 2!<p>I was so excited & honored today to see Betty Crocker mention my <a href="http://okayhereisthething.blogspot.com/2011/02/cinnamon-puffs.html" target="_blank">Cinnamon Puff</a> recipe on Twitter & Facebook!! It was wonderful.</p> <p>I loved reading all you comments, and visiting your blogs (BTW, I’ve added a blog list… if you have a domestic-themed blog & would like to be added… let me know).</p> <p>I’ll try to answer all the questions about the post & recipe.</p> <p>1) CORRECTION… it is 1/4 tsp nutmeg… not 1/2 (although you could adjust for your own taste)</p> <p>2) The slotted spoon is from Pampered Chef (<em>I’m not a consultant but I know a great one if you need anything)</em> as well as;</p> <ul> <li>The mixing bowls (LOVE them)</li> <li>The measuring cup</li> <li>The cookie scoop</li> <li>The glass bowl the egg is in</li></ul> <p>3) The dishes are an old Pfaltzgraff pattern called “Charlotte” which was not available for very long. I ended up getting most of the pieces on ebay.</p> <p>Thanks again everyone… would love to know if you tried the Puffs & how they turned out!</p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-20048009185657403612011-02-21T12:48:00.000-08:002011-02-21T12:48:00.291-08:00Growing up in the 80’s<p>If you grew up in the 80’s more than likely come Thursday night your TV was tuned into “The Cosby Show”. A show I have recently rediscovered on my Netflix… this show still makes me laugh out loud. I love his no- nonsense approach to parenting.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_DlZYX1RUrRxRJ3GA20GYulCoizH5j2r3pLBgneQELGDrFpy0zrIKmP7QMm4Z0V7h-NEU0yztR0sPMOgRDQlFCFx6uEckVkpFhVxH5JJRZiXF468sKHZn98OptollXWk-4dStKd7-yeg/s1600-h/l3637d6230000_1_263693.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="l3637d6230000_1_26369" border="0" alt="l3637d6230000_1_26369" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NZ7zQipMnla09LPPuwRzeT-GH28vbQwVRoxODBxaK7CvEisnIZufxQlqqfGwYd46OhVXUJ6LILPa3ztRAeJsmXUSZ00d_b4euAiC3p6XO3ynwbwokyIu_3z1EJKqtzXx4JThSlN8tGKS/?imgmax=800" width="241" height="344"></a> </p> <p>The show was definitely better in it’s early years when the kids were younger, and added to the comic relief. One of my very favorite scenes is in the pilot episode when Cliffs (Cosby) son Theo (played by Malcolm Jamal-Warner) comes home with a less than stellar report card. Theo explains to his father that maybe his aspiration in life is to be a ‘regular person’ like a gas station attendant, and that will make him happy. Cliff teaches him a lesson in economics using monopoly money which has little effect. Later in the episode Theo makes a heartfelt plea to his father, again saying</p> <blockquote> <p>“Your a doctor & Mom’s a lawyer, and that’s great.. but MAYBE… I was born to be a regular person, and have a regular life. If you weren’t a doctor I wouldn’t love you less, because your MY Dad. So, instead of acting disappointed because I’m not like you, maybe you can just accept me for who I am and love me <strong><em>anyway </em></strong>because I’m your son”</p></blockquote> <p>The live audience let’s out applause at this sentimental after school special type moment. In 70’s & early 80’s TV it would have been left there with Cliff responding you’re right son… do what makes you happy followed by a warm embrace. BUT… here enters the brilliance of Bill Cosby.</p> <blockquote> <p>“Theo…. THAT’S THE DUMBEST THING I’VE EVER HEARD IN MY LIFE! No wonder you get D’s in everything”</p></blockquote> <p>It’s CLASSIC!!</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:0767317B-992E-4b12-91E0-4F059A8CECA8:659fb357-aaf0-40e9-855c-43a50b0b620c" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent">Technorati Tags: <a href="http://technorati.com/tags/tv+show" rel="tag">tv show</a>,<a href="http://technorati.com/tags/review" rel="tag">review</a>,<a href="http://technorati.com/tags/cosby+show" rel="tag">cosby show</a>,<a href="http://technorati.com/tags/80's" rel="tag">80's</a></div> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-33035606164681933242011-02-20T10:58:00.001-08:002011-02-20T10:58:18.686-08:00Cinnamon Puffs<p>Love, love, love these little nuggets of buttery cinnamony sugary goodness… They’re a cross between a muffin, a cupcake, and a doughnut…</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7bIBXjZS4aI-f30owtHZn6NttJuZLZ67slkQ5BkXzqvBt7m3p4AE_4nuKvEpDgHtBl26JYaWffSxv5PYTqbwJcbHAXrjzodOG2HzgMZlAzhoVorF8VXDXIaiosUhR8DfOJv-wZnO9wNY/s1600-h/IMGP2544%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2544" border="0" alt="IMGP2544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69lMppIAFYOXXELLbTgZmdBKgsHtDevLMM-kZG6xlMUxrncyWI8BX4ab9uFyxM9itutqH9NZNg6vuagFq7l8hAwMDME5FSH40eDmKpafmfbowO_e7lcYkMxRFpQ_EaZe5pr5niNP0HVz5/?imgmax=800" width="408" height="280"></a> </p> <p>Years ago before I became a Mom I would host a mother’s day brunch for my Mom & sister-in-law. I did this recipe every year. I found it in a wonderful Betty Crocker cookbook <em>(I get several recipes from this book, and they never fail). </em> In this book they’re called “French Breakfast Puffs” I’ve tweaked it a bit to make it my own.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkDFFBxsI/AAAAAAAACls/fIubhWhSR4w/s1600-h/IMGP2527%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2527" border="0" alt="IMGP2527" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_ESiuA1jFyd5FeCUWOi9_Vi4EJ5da9MfUgvJGZeIj-vjxq5xbQrkP4UcyDrP7MrdjpzC0LtaxD2MyJbDhkVEs-Zw60_EcJIplZ-ZhDZtj3GHCESzjhrIqxS4VfALLDt48tDfPhyphenhyphenYsGC6/?imgmax=800" width="353" height="276"></a> </p> <p>Today my daughter & I attempted, and failed to visit a new church so we headed home, and since we now had a free morning I decided to make a batch of these.</p> <p>Start by spraying a muffin tin w/ cooking spray (paper cups won’t work for this recipe). The recipe calls for a standard muffin pan, but I prefer to use a mini-muffin pan as then you can just pop one in your mouth. <em>(One batch will do one pan of puffs). </em>Preheat oven to 350.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvn0t-n6jl87eMDE0SiC42aH3N7kDVyPd9Iu0ZSyI9JpI8qApGQLje_sAjdJ6JEIGpHI9hIGrF_Ux2aS9c0OSKGsSXYWjYqcRfscPspKEmydD97AQB0yzX_lsPgc7fXVO9_SFcOHjB4Pr7/s1600-h/IMGP2487%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2487" border="0" alt="IMGP2487" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZOPJ5D3gbNWP7PWoG-9URU4MtTtzwdcsHtRLnJpM5qepWtsA9UREswKgHClaBMwySc6tfQNZ0yVylO2M8D9Lk9_oscnme4W2r9QgYE0OyDbQD09BoXyj2vE-viVrivh6buki6OSxKbl8B/?imgmax=800" width="241" height="351"></a> </p> <p>Next add 1/3 cup shortening to your mixing bowl <em>(as an aside this Pampered Chef measuring cup is wonderful for sticky items like shortening, and peanut butter as you just push up on the bottom to get the gooeyness out!)</em></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPqjtqmg3RM875H-H9feUCbbFVuqXUJXnk0ldzjxy3-DNZ1sRgmFrK7NZmVMJMC-WEnMRGP7-rqjTE9T_hPzL0ONXXcoQWIR9jlRK_kq52OkC0LXRpzDtJcnKtfH9ka5KgpuBdssweXvPi/s1600-h/IMGP2489%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2489" border="0" alt="IMGP2489" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkEYdqToI/AAAAAAAACmA/3SHEEgUCRNY/IMGP2489_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="251" height="365"></a> </p> <p>Then add 1/2 cup white sugar, and 1 egg to the shortening.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PKpgexVPLYzClITE2QWNUIMJxfr21BUgWPcqmKiOGmRtxz1zMYzc2HJV-sE7YRTk4L_omeESpq86GMSexqW2N5NfWzbayzcXnJGZnk8yOFZ38KbSupBp4M7GpsKpXprdPX7eZFqOE1sx/s1600-h/IMGP2490%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2490" border="0" alt="IMGP2490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheFQf16W0UxSndWXoME0tOuthyphenhyphennw2A5QJ8fvQp3CNrgY6l8r4TXSJrNgZLwtBeogk24S1yGtCodt2FxB9nMnD3HHuihnKD5ebmRGnwNf132FjkRj9YU8GGm7N3sAwMZOmc7i86VM576RLX/?imgmax=800" width="296" height="345"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkFbjx43I/AAAAAAAACmM/S_gsDYZ8sAg/s1600-h/IMGP2494%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2494" border="0" alt="IMGP2494" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkFqV4OmI/AAAAAAAACmQ/2WWq2aSN2eE/IMGP2494_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="238" height="369"></a> </p> <p>Beat together…</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwz6ilkEXxaUDqV9Ofzjq0wnPOnmSm08KRmy0mA1LHwXBRhyphenhyphenGpdC-XEEj1daMmqU0Y5d0yZV30u6FTyeGVUvt5hf7la848nhvQHuFoEIPcP5MJOlUJklVxCMbFl48GX0JyiloiN4oUe5yz/s1600-h/IMGP2497%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2497" border="0" alt="IMGP2497" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkS4xQId8HZY7dqMxmndCwzhzbKoZnMMeTIa1F56CjC-RGANWid0DfoaOi8MhaZmR5836IQFuYDJXs1t4PHm85w6VYC7HPIreKGBVfidTygPNuIPT1_zjm0pN0nD1LkF_tcCGo5McHGJ0b/?imgmax=800" width="451" height="310"></a> </p> <p>… until it’s creamy yellow goodness…</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaH7MmRZRF8AjkeKqDbiwN1AkEF7Fu5SEgMSEktIMH5AXe_X8TpMl1ilVY7k0tdyMt6bLc7OhW8JWr-MkweHZHLvXuJ1yVMh65X1jUrrPwuxFHv12pG1o0jtdTtTaF-MIXTGKNwjDs7eWC/s1600-h/IMGP2500%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2500" border="0" alt="IMGP2500" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkG9BfrGI/AAAAAAAACmg/EtHSz93_y2o/IMGP2500_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="310"></a> </p> <p>In another bowl mix together 1 1/2 cups flour with 1 1/2 tsp baking POWDER, and 1/2 tsp salt.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkHN0EWmI/AAAAAAAACmk/UYx2355AKag/s1600-h/IMGP2501%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2501" border="0" alt="IMGP2501" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkHT1OVzI/AAAAAAAACmo/VIjioxcgXIg/IMGP2501_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="321"></a> </p> <p>Then add 1/2 tsp nutmeg… just enough.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYohb8A07c8bx-u3Pg4D_-MmB8kXBblddplBS7ytroksIzHdgsVThe-duCPDoPJDLJJhWR0_S3hSWS-iXBTtVtp3JHR3mexaxc4cSHKcOnOoM4ImeFpcfiWzlTxJj8oXa2V68-hMkXOxS4/s1600-h/IMGP2506%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2506" border="0" alt="IMGP2506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeR2fsxzTPSzIyGUSNoGeHHCvQOQS2xMkkFFzXRyZa180BQC7HJ56k2P2k4RvODUR1dTZtcQNX69pV7gcGt_rXpsU1RfkQHfs2Z9JIlFnHUloqEybi3dwp4POzT3YQbgrPiLE8GSNL-YV2/?imgmax=800" width="473" height="349"></a> </p> <p>… and mix all together.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhB030z1YBemUBN3aqhyzJO0LtgQb5rqlP_uUA3vzFlYz2FzLQBsyBpNBiS2hw7kvxu9AnqWqTNZUVx9xgouDf8M2UcbO0xboB0jIIeskVAt0g7oX0-S5nC3DIl_Qtsr_AcRC-VT_rDfu/s1600-h/IMGP2509%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2509" border="0" alt="IMGP2509" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1FiUKqdnNco_ouoNsQFHbJm8mNArPrqFkhpCA4ZngvTe_Kscd3Dmn3y9MSSIS8I4wjmVd5114w1wSSaMplN4rflB-t682Um8ZVXy0lBh8ArmMHhl2sdj5HZTC83_5ufiSwDlm5-LpoiM-/?imgmax=800" width="306" height="438"></a> </p> <p>Measure out 1/2 cup of milk</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWCl_qi10T0kO-qUgrSfhi3alHV0nNnrszy3WxE6vZpAnGpbjvB-U0ne0qd1EYyHqT6eteLBu6Y58lVVm2Gr1-YhM1lTPW4eE8xWSzShjDtR33nwBlb7c6bVX-gix7QDfNaSVJTW1Fqom/s1600-h/IMGP2511%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2511" border="0" alt="IMGP2511" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJM-B_Y5rMfY4G0N8yOnXnMlkOo4VKnFQcFlzIgnmD6V1QAw3kBTxuSjXcBI59W-AcAAH01-lJ6pDASkb26KIt2l1cFkKgh1JDCujvtrdY1sAa6zdFDi_75OyDtpVSzdHPEpgSIpE2zX2/?imgmax=800" width="414" height="289"></a> </p> <p>With mixer on low speed alternate adding milk & flour mixture to the egg mixture, and beat until combined.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkJdDLDvI/AAAAAAAACnE/sqhk7uZWSJQ/s1600-h/IMGP2514%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2514" border="0" alt="IMGP2514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCO4S3kYBs0PN8cP5Z7eICo1HWqTmtceOdlFJQVGv5425BlxDBe74HjEFGJw_HVNBw4HVGJY2F54IOWgbhNh5FhGqjwBRSos4RnhcDkGEmWsnYEZ2EN8sXiLS0HGvShNV-ge9gQuzzzcu/?imgmax=800" width="460" height="316"></a> </p> <p>Then put in muffin cups filling about 2/3. (<em>I love to use my 1tbsp cookie scoop to do this).</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkJkYhDhI/AAAAAAAACnM/hlfl8tcpbq4/s1600-h/IMGP2515%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2515" border="0" alt="IMGP2515" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQx2ANmV_nW9XAXxaBWZ3FhyphenhyphenSb1zaG9kpWHFJYuJ0yW3H-JT8wjERHssYy-KkLENwlypPXQ75bu9c_5cmjVgFpUI-Yss8SszlFEydvfmgbGL-C5bTMPqQWRIJHiJfQHzz-Kxsio3iKsLxh/?imgmax=800" width="429" height="295"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz51ud7RIOhl5RrR3J_Ai2jE5MNMab4dyy6RqEt6BnAsT0ZWIbFWSofv025OyWYfiDN7LPucMKQ9l0m8hzAg7RAWDoYC-m22OuOAcjFlOeYsOLqcNnDEwh6bBc3SNnicWWCGfvm6k5ELt0/s1600-h/IMGP2516%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2516" border="0" alt="IMGP2516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioOUg8TvlK2X_64TzIo74whn3E1leTJF12F0D8a7CsLr50tc5W6k36jLm5lYWzsl8eCTiSMd1rqZOQGJcIzIIvBiF6-wR_R9DLDcKLMRzGzPLWq4tB40o1z0oiZr0A8JkwrOO1COJsHDGz/?imgmax=800" width="422" height="290"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilcxa_1kQapcNYXbXCwIkf2P93olp7lcTzn_9EbgMNEVMRhuyQwYs-lnTMixphFexARlLklw_khJGbYWWi0Zc9m3NbU-p_HsGaBv2mfLRmeRxUoRloyyTs1PIjY66t5S-H4uDh_fvyAzEB/s1600-h/IMGP2520%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2520" border="0" alt="IMGP2520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKf4bHRbT7BQWV_QOO0HLsWNi52EEhWInsljrLOmXaUoC8YkmN_EBSfPJBdJuhhjqWfqCEZtOoKtuFVKE7yBe3xX4Zh38dRz4CNCxpr9xWYlSDPsVd7byIA0TOjKr6CsyxkQR1kjecuM8I/?imgmax=800" width="310" height="451"></a> </p> <p> </p> <p>Put in oven bake for 25 minutes <em>(adjust time for your oven as needed they should be nice golden brown when done).</em></p> <p>Have a cute helper to assist with the clean-up while they’re baking (<em>this step is optional but does add to the fun)</em>.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHyyrMyntLqLj2lODtvbySLJjOhQbJHsIZZ5yAGxjejI9PjV11J3k5wTQBynVpG0O4w74CEVq6Xck88AbG-uY-Z-KuMtbFKruQlxKrEvq2Hhev3C7Z78yQ8InJ7wgFSGaHO8Th_QosGs9j/s1600-h/IMGP2518%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2518" border="0" alt="IMGP2518" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkM5zcmhI/AAAAAAAACno/9KTsXiUtK0U/IMGP2518_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="324" height="472"></a> </p> <p>Also, while baking prepare the melted butter, and cinnamon sugar.</p> <p>Mix 3/4 cup sugar w/ 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon in small bowl.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkNAw598I/AAAAAAAACns/rVO6kWNqVFs/s1600-h/IMGP2526%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2526" border="0" alt="IMGP2526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6oWtjsveP1jOPufPlAnTPPxrz8FBrWEy39ALlyFwU8jhnl-RzzaKmtaLkZRCWuAQkzaIi_g4SEuD6vzylPErlJiA-zDCl6p-Ed5dYtd0dce3szS3JV8sF931fwtLOhHSaX7QRj9CdzBVk/?imgmax=800" width="443" height="278"></a> </p> <p>Melt 3/4 cup butter in another small bowl (<em>do this step just a few minutes before the puffs come out of the oven).</em></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnDAfRptuoxmN3osttrvU3HiHVzjv23Cc4iuPC1aT-w6XeqaF2sQtttedDyPhof8WhwXx6sfN-SQvz2NGQ9RfUBzkFTcSks-XdBznyg6HB95TTp2FXGB9u16UZ2ijPiC19JQAWXovTs7vr/s1600-h/IMGP2528%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2528" border="0" alt="IMGP2528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip64vHpc6IF-zjm7XCFb9w0tXie-g_8D_IS7_UnFMg7JsQONGBEWw0ZsPgGEauzNkdPDRnUcI90KQYtPyxw0oxwXzlZBODcBW_87R8tQnwbALvJgXALiKfKRxtCmLOIXV27d19EWANPrzh/?imgmax=800" width="393" height="486"></a> </p> <p>Get out a pretty plate to put them on when they’re ready.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfKCNEcw0KBWHuw8wwOCK0w_8EVh_Q5SNMwlQ3KQRhuPYcbTaE-qd-SOOQkzwS33-VMhDXKWnjpMDPzBFuJcytjMp-qD-FBdkFP5xxa58DBwF2acWqhJ_vUkZq75oRP_vY_6Ks0RhnQRn2/s1600-h/IMGP2532%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2532" border="0" alt="IMGP2532" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWE61lNzuncCuNsfAU7IB71UiG8aocurzmeGiMlSuAkHXNxg_7A9Llt12tZ0cULEVAesMwqq64ra7zBvty3yMUN7BPQS-rTNfyy753MhB51g7FDvZeosAymtRyLbjRqWHvRAGyUtwzQHC/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="315"></a> </p> <p>Take them out, and while they’re still hot (<em>you may want a slotted spoon to help with this as the butter, and the puffs are HOT).</em></p> <p>Dip in the butter, and then the cinnamon sugar.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkPpuHn1I/AAAAAAAACoE/Yei1h22eB-k/s1600-h/IMGP2536%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2536" border="0" alt="IMGP2536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-7fNqT79iLwZLpAU71J9D03y17DnVxWlscBo1odP0Vnsl8qmlBIrColOUjkwKA12bmGjFqt2Ris2B5LLAGzsE4LmY_-qg9qMt9h032CfwbCqJacQfcVRH110SicNrv2z-KRw3G8-tleo/?imgmax=800" width="444" height="305"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC4QPmkChMDJ47OaT-Y8RLdHtl8XeYwpdy9QyTwfPV-Xsh6Y-QbywBYz45tyVxDxWe44WiqTeO1VZCIoqgHMS67G-NYmVsGqibZe_hM0Tytehm8SbQIFbswwbiuPKvJhApNA2Rs7T1BjRS/s1600-h/IMGP2537%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2537" border="0" alt="IMGP2537" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipCVPsamb0rx0unMXeTge60avMoVcUY0l8CcGikx6D0xRy0nYM7gnl6jLAeCJbH7JipJL8gPk3qlVTxUqktplPi-CDlKKJmtrJUB0uyTFbFr2mUZrD_OitPGxWRiuw9KRj0ZNTOTVMsiyc/?imgmax=800" width="444" height="305"></a> </p> <p>The recipe says to serve warm, and while they’re delectable this way… I like them even better the next day they get a little crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAtKeR_lpPs2eugZeoSdk-UGc_d_OqFj4upgODpMSEioevQOwtVv78c0WdcE8Klc0DbSefxvLBxCRjW1u2daW4y3K5SDtsL4t4OdLp0QmpuCYQHdNvgkH1Khz1-pTEIOefwNxiEeW6LKk/s1600-h/IMGP2539%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2539" border="0" alt="IMGP2539" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkRPX_QqI/AAAAAAAACoY/Oi-P5WdLTMc/IMGP2539_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="443"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzlthWrVwcBns9dX4aYdP9z_CbFj16C5du__aOvCp5iBqOD21zKE6WhChAmLCTH6AM9n-dJIZspfEPbQbIOKz_cgUxWGIl0bXeQPKDSMfovrn2YpbOxkU54DIpAhw9-qN-aQqnuy53vvG/s1600-h/IMGP2546%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2546" border="0" alt="IMGP2546" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkRk5hnXI/AAAAAAAACog/KfVtoQIvRGs/IMGP2546_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="507" height="324"></a> </p> <p>Then have your helper do a taste test…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/TWFkR5ucQuI/AAAAAAAACok/7H0vjuoAnO0/s1600-h/IMGP2550%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2550" border="0" alt="IMGP2550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvEzDCpu-4twnFJXsM84bLvGSwagM9ZtzybG0_2vrFgkWC-QLE0B527Pf3xVoHrN7tSHXF5qVZF0VKafem-LgnhwREANx5YwM2aqXLh0p7VIquxsmd_3Kci8MtePXkAZSTVEZ3EX3lSyd/?imgmax=800" width="493" height="338"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0QaTFXdpq6hW5IYXpCn1xW3Jc5GLglru3Ue-I8HjMJ33KpfRY77BwlSoBBkn4stsEkaEDjlVfigcG7s1_3HajZBBVJC6o4HYDPoC_j4TZCdaUx2sxpqdQe3DrxI4z6KkVW7gFJETfdc7Q/s1600-h/IMGP2549%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMGP2549" border="0" alt="IMGP2549" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DhXrrZdVoYYWpb8Os2C2EwZKiTUEt3_8ubwPmkmf6RzxmRIBmRtHHz_06uOxK06JaIDyN5U0WK3vctoSXDGQQvrXJwCF8ocm-vYTE8tiiuOv8FANIPINqyPaCI2JAl_v05LpEHnl2HQs/?imgmax=800" width="364" height="355"></a> </p> <p>Around here we call just call them “Puffs”</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>1/3 cup shortening<br>1/2 cup sugar<br>1 egg<br>1 1/2 cups flour<br>1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br>1/2 tsp salt<br>1/4 tsp nutmeg<br>1/2 cup milk<br>3/4 cup sugar<br>1 1/2 tsp cinnamon<br>3/4 cup melted butter or margarine<br></p> <p>1- Heat oven to 350. Spray or grease mini muffin pan.</p> <p>2- Mix shortening, 1/2 cup sugar, and egg thoroughly. Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg; stir into egg mixture alternately with milk.<br></p> <p>3- Fill muffin cups 2/3 full. Bake 20-25 minutes (less if do mini muffins), or until golden brown. Mix sugar & cinnamon. Melt butter. </p> <p>4- Roll hot muffin immediately in melted butter (definitely use a utensil to do this), then in sugar-cinnamon mixture. Serve hot.</p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-41879285175199332562011-02-19T16:46:00.001-08:002011-02-19T16:46:59.645-08:00Have you seen this? 1<p><font color="#400040" size="5">I’m starting a series of movie reviews for what I would consider ‘sleeper’ movies that aren’t real mainstream (although sometimes they may be), but the main focus will be movies that you may have missed. I will also give each movie a ‘hanky’ rating on a 1-5 scale… based on how many tissues you will need when watching.</font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5">DISCLAIMER: I’m a girl… a sentimental, unapologetic emotional female, so these will have a ‘chick-flick’ leaning but not all. A TV show, or movie gets me when it makes me laugh & cry “Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion” (a quote from one of my favorite quintessential ‘chick flicks’).</font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5">So… for my first review I am choosing my 2nd favorite movie of all time (1st would be “It’s A Wonderful Life”)… but my second is “Return to Me” </font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj5wmj97d4yQ0rRRjXitYYqHbtZzaZbDiU7kkHad-Eh8hse6SJz8lMz_c7Ry552ES2o8Ebkg9Zaz0jgkRfNiIUbI4xyd2cwTSMKetZTbb-sGPiSD0FYULIUjGnz8woQuJKh8JdGzD4xw8B/?imgmax=800" width="246" height="364"> </font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5">starring Minnie Driver, David Duchovony, Carroll O’Connor, Bonnie Hunt (who also c0-wrote, directed, and produced),and James Belushi. It echoes back to another time in American cinema, when characters, classic actors, and sweet storylines ruled the big screen.</font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5">It is heartwarming, and sentimental, with a colorful cast of characters. Characters who aren’t larger than life, but more average persons we may know in our own lives, with his/her own unique idiosyncrasies. Most of the movie centers around “O’Reilly's” Irish Italian restaurant in Chicago (and Hunt uses the Chicago backdrop to create a warm friendly Midwest feel), and the persons who work, and frequent there. The restaurant is run by Carroll O’Connor, and his brother-in law played by Robert Loggia. These 2 characters, and their 2 friends create a foursome who lend the most comic relief to the film. We all have an older gentleman in our life like one of these guys. You can’t help but chuckle at their antics, and insight into life. </font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5">One of the most endearing scenes is when Grace (Driver) asks her grandpa (O’Connor) if he needs help closing up the restaurant to which he responds “No thanks… I’m blessed with work”. Additional comic relief is provided by the husband & wife with a houseful of kids, played so believably by Bonnie Hunt, and Jim Belushi.</font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5">Of course, the center of the story is a love story between Duchovny, and Driver’s characters. The sweetness in their romance is very endearing. It is refreshing to see a good old-fashioned romance… where it develops, and evolves over the course of the film. Not just two characters meeting, and immediately jumping into bed together.</font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5">Hunt also uses a classic soundtrack of Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and the like to create a timeless feel to this sweet romance.</font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5">This movie unlike any other captures the ‘laughter through tears’ emotion unlike any other I have seen.</font></p> <p><font color="#400040" size="5">HANKY RATING; I give this a 5 out of 5 hanky rating. You’ll need tissues at the beginning, middle, and end… both from laughing, and crying.</font></p>TRAILER: <iframe title="YouTube video player" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oFD8ZE0Muf0?rel=0" frameborder="0" width="640" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-49512709184350247652009-08-31T05:30:00.000-07:002009-08-31T05:34:06.769-07:00Brilliant!!!I just came across this tip on opening those annoying 'clamshell' packaging for any item, gadget, gizmo, memory card, etc. Check out this <a href="http://green.yahoo.com/blog/the_conscious_consumer/88/how-to-open-clamshell-packaging.html">article on Yahoo</a>, and how you can open these annoying packages w/ a hand held can opener!! Brilliant I say!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_7xYWqwglejhTH1vbP0NpzU1FLyOgDTAPMvpoYGldWkv2u5IJ8F548FAE56lkeXD176bo_o6Xc8V4Nme-2xOlDUDmAKRI-00MbqEgUTm_n1PDd1m_VTI6jEa7LQ3lmAzqF9EvnHuDQRt/s1600-h/KitchenAid-Can-Opener-Green-B00005KIDT-L.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_7xYWqwglejhTH1vbP0NpzU1FLyOgDTAPMvpoYGldWkv2u5IJ8F548FAE56lkeXD176bo_o6Xc8V4Nme-2xOlDUDmAKRI-00MbqEgUTm_n1PDd1m_VTI6jEa7LQ3lmAzqF9EvnHuDQRt/s320/KitchenAid-Can-Opener-Green-B00005KIDT-L.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376105143835138834" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-28115025667084557392009-08-27T17:46:00.001-07:002009-08-27T17:51:58.970-07:00Is it just me??<p>Am I the only one disturbed by the growing up too fast pressure society is putting on our daughters???  </p> <p>I've been casually browsing websites for Madalynn's halloween costume, and my jaw has dropped at some of the costumes being marketed to girls, and pre-teens... What is the rush all about? Why do they have to grow up so fast?  Can't we let them be (AND LOOK) like girls.... not women heading out to clubs.</p> <p>These costumes come in sizes beginning at <strong><u>7 years old!!!</u></strong></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/Spco3kiHo6I/AAAAAAAABg4/A99sEPbkwFw/s1600-h/2654%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="2654" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/Spco3-sVnQI/AAAAAAAABg8/iiAJDibHXFc/2654_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="107" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWmH1L2gM3SkNlb47bWCnzmsp3Wf-tFX6LyB1TEkyTPt1SB0OQBJGq5523IS-BOnNWiNP6kyPJNBxPR_hHvlPUd2Vpmu0Vx48fo620IaVcK5OERawG3kJLk3liXYoqykd4wPTlDIFtrZRg/s1600-h/38876%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="38876" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfvTaSa9EyZ9iZHeoALnjrkYH3N-ll0foz3DB4YkjtCxpQOXWJZOKkvBStMcCVXk_X8U6DO5O5zpYAg0N_Mw1NTpYlLrpUHlMiDj9afT1mp7KCcmakQKo2W5shu6Q6Uzsqhl4oQSTJcAw/?imgmax=800" width="124" border="0" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>These costumes below come in sizes beginning at <strong><u>3 years old.... read that again THREE years old!!</u></strong></p> <p><strong><u></u></strong></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QGSRe-vjC5g/Spco4lkt6_I/AAAAAAAABhI/D2ORqbrFUUg/s1600-h/882026%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="882026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDSaMFLPGiTCLpB3jsq7BZHHuv-FaElrPjEn64-_Y3T2pEBYGU2IWkFhnDg5ThTmDODlo7PTFRYF8ykx4yE0xUZd_v5HuQ8SKgbnozZXS9AVf5lu2uyW-RXWXb83fR9Nz7UaXtA-eqdG-A/?imgmax=800" width="101" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFuAvkt1kp7tA5IDIyEAs3r9YNdZgm17xIF8ujZ9-DZAN54k-67M2IxtBcy4GpLDAgla07aFIVI074sn3KtQNpVBmRSoTuHhsKDhK0-rlv4p_nlp-vhGtmSAPfnHIDGCr5n-qou-TNAJv/s1600-h/882961%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="882961" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPWlGd3X6ThjEklaC_35i2Y55BN-Nyk44RGnvoFwJK5Hn74F74O8HQTtF8jtLTbCH2d0IAlOCZ7z1h1TEL8K9tpB0RAm6nEl2el7HjpMNV0qhVKVm64bMKp5WOWqWAafha5oWU8y6X6_24/?imgmax=800" width="132" border="0" /></a></p> <p>They're young for such a short time... let them be little girls for as long as possible.  </p> <p>I think this <a href="http://www.dove.us/#/us_landing.aspx/" target="_blank">Dove</a> video 'Evolution' should be shown to in every middle school & jr high in the United States</p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:fe358848-9ea5-49fb-8766-2010c627fc4f" style="padding-right: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0px"><div><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/iYhCn0jf46U&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/iYhCn0jf46U&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object></div></div> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-29568036055507094522009-08-22T07:44:00.000-07:002009-08-22T07:53:09.646-07:00Hollywood??I think Hollywood is running out of original ideas... we have TV that is saturated with 'reality' shows, that don't require writers, actors, etc thus the only creativity required is to come up with a concept (as an aside I think the producers of some of these shows use the term 'Star', and 'Celebrity' quite liberally... either that or I'm getting too old to know who these people are). It seems as if they're recycling (or as my Dad would say 'Re-treads'), old ideas, characters, etc.<br /><br />Last season we saw <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0098749/">"Beverly Hills 90210"</a> (from my younger days), recycled as<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1225901/"> "90210"</a> not only bringing back a similar story line, but some of the same actors/actresses now adults.<br /><br />They are re-making <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084967/">"The A-Team"</a> into a movie.<br /><br />This season we have <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0103491/">"Melrose Place"</a> coming back as a TV series called <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1388782/">"Melrose Place"</a>.<br /><br />Were these shows so great the first time around that they need to come back?? How about something original or new?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-58603838720794736212009-08-12T16:51:00.000-07:002009-08-12T17:20:33.571-07:00Single Parent Menus<span style="font-size:130%;">As a single working parent (or any parent for that matter), meal planning/preparing is one of my biggest challenges. Now that I'm a WAHM (Work at home Mom), it has gotten a little bit easier, but I still have to plan ahead. I find it's challenging too grocery shopping as a single plus a half, when a majority of food in the grocery store is 'Family Oriented'... you see </span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >"FAMILY SIZE"</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> on bright red stickers in the meat dept, vine tomatoes are in buches of 4 & 5, and don't get me started on the chip aisle!! Additionally, a lot of these items are more economical to buy in the family size. So what's a non family size family to do? Become best friends with your freezer!!!<br /><br />In the meat dept I buy the family size package (and rip that mocking sticker right off). Once I get home I break up the purchase, put it in a freezer bag, write the date with a sharpie on the bag, and throw it in the freezer. For example, chicken I might break up into packages of 2 or 4. Additionally I may throw some marinade in it (see a marinade recipe below). For hamburger I'll make 2 patties in one bag, and then freeze the rest as is, or go ahead and brown it, and freeze it, and then I have that ready if a recipe calls for browned ground beef. Or tonight, I cooked the entire package for tacos, added the taco seasoning, and then put some in a ziploc for another night this week, and 2 more ziplocs in the freezer.<br /><br />Let me clarify I am NOT an organized person (I know the Sharpie marker may indicate otherwise). My house is cluttered, piles of mail on the kitchen counter, toys not put away, etc. I play before I clean. I do however have a few things that 'work' that I do consistently. This is one of them.<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);font-size:130%;" >PROS; <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">This is a great time & money saver that will keep sanity on those crazy weeknights when 'Pirana' hour hits... you know the time of day when you're trying to go through the mail, answer the phone, get some juice, and prepare dinner. (Not to mention washing the high chair tray from breakfast so it's ready for dinner).<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">CONS;<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> This does take a little planning ahead, not only the process of freezing, but also remembering to take it out of the freezer to thaw when you plan to serve it. (Although microwaves thaw items well, not great, but well, you just have to watch it doesn't begin to cook the meat).<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">OK, here's the thing;<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> This really is a relief when you don't know what to have for dinner, and you open the freezer to ziploc packages of ideas.<br /><br />Marinade recipe... SUPER easy!!<br /></span></span></span></span></span></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Italian salad dressing (enough to cover the chicken in the bag).</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">1/4 cup parmesan cheese (I recommend fresh)</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">4 pieces of boneless chicken (breasts or thighs)</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">Place everything in a ziploc bag, rotate to coat, freeze.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">For a twist you can add soy sauce, or terriyaki sauce, but use less italian dressing.</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;">Yummy on the grill, but can also be baked.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2388847338085875348.post-20269615907989589122009-08-08T03:35:00.000-07:002009-08-08T03:58:23.290-07:00Have You Seen This??<span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:130%;color:#6600cc;">I came across this breastfeeding doll on the news the other day... have you seen this?? It's a baby doll for little girls that comes with a halter top the little girl puts on that has two daisy flowers where her breasts should be. The baby cries, and she holds it to her daisies, and the doll begins to make suckling noises like the baby is eating, and then she burps the baby.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;color:#6600cc;">Hmmm.... there is something disturbing about it to me. I know breastfeeding is one of the most natural things you can do, and many little girls (and boys) will mimic their Moms if they see her breastfeeding an infant sibling which is sweet. On the other hand, what doll will they come out with next? There are other 'natural' acts that I don't want my daughter mimicing with her dolls. On the other hand I don't agree with those who say it's going to lead to 'oversexualizing' children. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;color:#6600cc;">Watch this demonstration, and let me know your thoughts. </span><br /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zZEjsO5cYw4&hl=" width="425" height="344" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" fs="1&" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always"></embed><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;color:#6600cc;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZEjsO5cYw4"></a>.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;color:#6600cc;">This doll is currently not available in the United States just Spain.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;">PROS:</span><span style="color:#6600cc;"> <span style="font-size:130%;">It encourages role model play, and most little girls love playing 'Mommy'</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">CONS: <span style="color:#6600cc;">There is a certain 'iccck' factor to it.</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#6600cc;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;">Ok, here's the thing; <span style="color:#6600cc;">I think in the end it's a harmless doll for your little girl, but it does carry an 'ewwww' factor for adults. I would also have concerns with my daughter using it in public, you never know what kind of people are around,</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0