Oodlekadoodle Primitives

A KIDS VIEW OF CHRISTMAS!

2011-12-21T08:05:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

You Tube

A Kids view of Christmas.

I received this from a friend. I hope it touches you as much as it did me.

Thanks Jonthy!

BROWNIES ANYONE!

2011-12-16T08:53:00.000-08:00

I have made all of these brownie recipes and they are to die for...If you love BROWNIES, then these recipes are for you!!!

PEANUT BUTTER TRUFFLE BROWNIES

Craving chocolate and sweet peanut butter all wrapped up into one indulgent bar? Start with a no-fail brownie mix, then add layers of peanut butter and melted chocolate chips. Yum.

INGREDIENTS:
Brownie Base
1 box (1 lb 6.5 oz) Betty Crocker Original Supreme brownie mix
Water, vegetable oil and eggs called for on brownie mix box

Filling
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons milk

Topping
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup butter

DIRECTIONS:
Heat oven to 350°F. Grease bottom only of 13x9-inch pan with cooking spray or shortening. (For easier cutting, line pan with foil, then grease foil on bottom only of pan.)

In medium bowl, stir brownie mix, pouch of chocolate syrup, water, oil and eggs until well blended. Spread in pan. Bake 28 to 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted 2 inches from side of pan comes out almost clean. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

In medium bowl, beat filling ingredients with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Spread mixture evenly over brownie base.

In small microwavable bowl, microwave topping ingredients uncovered on High 30 to 60 seconds; stir until smooth. Cool 10 minutes; spread over filling. Refrigerate about 30 minutes or until set. For brownies, cut into 9 rows by 4 rows. Store covered in refrigerator

PEANUT BUTTER RIPPLE BROWNIES

Crave the classic chocolate and peanut butter flavor combo? Here it is in brownie form, frosted of course!

INGREDIENTS:
Brownies
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 box (1 lb 6.5 oz) Betty Crocker Original Supreme brownie mix
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
2 eggs
Chopped peanuts, if desired

Peanut Butter Frosting
1 cup vanilla frosting (from 1-lb container)
1/3 cup peanut butter
2 to 3 teaspoons milk

DIRECTIONS:
Heat oven to 350°F. Grease bottom only of 13x9-inch pan. In small bowl, beat sugar, 1/2 cup peanut butter, the flour and 2 eggs with electric mixer on medium speed 2 minutes; set aside.

In medium bowl, stir brownie mix, pouch of chocolate syrup, oil, water and 2 eggs until well blended. Spread in pan. Drop peanut butter mixture by tablespoonfuls onto batter. Swirl through batter with knife.

Bake 40 minutes. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

In medium bowl, stir all frosting ingredients, using spoon, until smooth and spreadable. Spread frosting over brownies; sprinkle with peanuts. For brownies, cut into 8 rows by 6 rows

ULTIMATE TURTLE BROWNIES

Make the ultimate! Indulge brownie mix with extra caramel, nuts and chocolate.

INGREDIENTS:
1 box (1 lb 6.5 oz) Betty Crocker Original Supreme brownie mix (with chocolate syrup pouch)
Water, vegetable oil and eggs called for on brownie mix box
1 bag (14 oz) caramels, unwrapped
1/4 cup whipping cream
1 bag (11.5 oz) semisweet chocolate chunks (2 cups)
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans

DIRECTIONS:
Heat oven to 350°F. Spray bottom and sides of 13x9-inch pan with baking spray with flour. In medium bowl, stir brownie mix, pouch of chocolate syrup, water, oil and eggs until well blended. Spread 1/2 of batter (about 1 1/2 cups) in pan. Bake 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in large microwavable bowl, microwave caramels and whipping cream uncovered on High 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until smooth.

Pour caramel over partially baked brownie; spread to edges. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the chocolate chunks and 1/2 cup of the pecans. Drop remaining brownie batter by small spoonfuls onto caramel layer. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup chocolate chunks and 1/2 cup pecans.

Bake 33 to 36 minutes longer or until center is almost set. Cool 1 hour at room temperature. Cover; refrigerate 1 hour before serving. For brownies, cut into 6 rows by 6 rows. Store covered at room temperature.
Recipes from Betty Crocker

HONEY GLAZED HAM & ORANGE CRANBERRY SAUCE!

2011-12-13T10:30:00.000-08:00

HONEY GLAZED HAM

We made this for my great grandson’s birthday party a couple weeks ago. It was one of the best hams I have ever had.

INGREDIENTS:

Glaze

1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup coarsely chopped peeled fresh ginger
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup whiskey
zest of 1 orange
1stick cinnamon
5 whole cloves
1 star anise
1 clove garlic crushed

Ham & Pineapple

2 whole carrots peeled and cut into large chunks
2 stalks celery cut into large chunks
1 whole orange, cut into 4 wedges
1 smoked cured ham, about 10 pounds, at room temperature
1 4 1/2 pound pineapple, peeled, quartered lengthwise, cored, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices I was lazy and used canned pineapple.

DIRECTIONS:

Combine the honey, vinegar, ginger, mustard, brown sugar, whiskey, orange zest, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, star anise and garlic in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Remove from the heat and steep for 5 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a small bowl; discard the solids.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Place the carrots, celery, onion and orange wedges in the bottom of a roasting pan and set the ham on top of the cut vegetables.

Brush some of the glaze over the ham to coat entirely and generously.

Tent the ham with foil. Bake until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham registers 140 degrees F, brushing with the glaze every 20 minutes, about 2 to 2 1/2 hours. The glaze should be golden and caramelized and the ham should be fully heated through.

Remove the roasting pan from the oven and allow the ham to rest for 10 minutes. Transfer the ham to a carving board. Strain any pan drippings into a small bowl and skim off any excess oil.

Preheat the broiler. Place the pineapple slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Brush some of the glaze over the pineapple. Broil until the pineapple is tender and golden brown basting pineapple with juices, about 10 minutes.

Holding the ham in place with a carving fork, cut the ham into about 1/4-inch-thick slices and arrange on a platter.

Arrange the pineapple slices around the ham. Serve with the reserved pan drippings and any remaining glaze and enjoy.
Recipe from Curtis Stone

ORANGE CRANBERRY SAUCE

I like cranberry sauce with my ham. Okay, after nearly 56 years of cooking, my search for the "definitive" cranberry sauce recipe is over! This recipe is fantastic!! This is the best cranberry sauce I have ever had! I used to just resort to canned because I never seemed to be able to make a "good" cranberry sauce.

INGREDIENTS:

12 ounces cranberries
1 cup white sugar
1 cup orange juice

DIRECTIONS:

In a medium sized saucepan over medium heat, dissolve the sugar in the orange juice. Stir in the cranberries and cook until the cranberries start to pop (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and place sauce in a bowl. Cranberry sauce will thicken as it cools.
Recipe from Toni

INNER PEACE!

2011-12-12T16:49:00.000-08:00

I'm passing this on because it worked for me today. A Doctor on TV said to have inner peace we should always finish things we start & we all could use more calm in our lives. I looked around my house to find things I'd started & hadn't finished, so I finished off a bottle of Merlot, a bottle of Chardonnay, a bodle of Baileys, a butle of wum, tha mainder of Valiuminun scriptins, an a box a chocletz. Yu haf no idr how fablus I feel rite now. Sned this to all who need inner piss. An telum u luvum...

MY DAY WITH PRETZELS & THE WINNER IS!

2011-12-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

See I didn't forget to pick a winner for the Tobacco Leaves & it is about time I did this!

The winner is Becca's Dirt.

PRETZEL TURTLES

Quick and easy turtle candies! Mini pretzels, caramel covered chocolate candies, and pecans make up this delicious treat.

INGREDIENTS:

20 small mini pretzels
20 Rollo candy pieces
20 pecan halves

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).

Arrange the pretzels in a single layer on a parchment lined cookie sheet.

Place one Rollo on each pretzel.

Bake for 4 minutes.

While the candy is warm, press a pecan half onto each candy covered pretzel. Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

SWEET PRETZEL STACKS

Easy! The hardest part is sharing them! For a nuttier confection, use 1/2 cup of peanuts. Good way to use up leftover condensed milk & pretzels.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups crushed pretzels
1/4 cup peanuts
2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter chips
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS:

In a large mixing bowl combine pretzels and peanuts. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan mix together condensed milk, chocolate chips and peanut butter chips. Cook over low heat stirring constantly until chips are melted (about 5 minutes).

Remove pan from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Pour saucepan mixture over the pretzel/peanut mixture and stir until thoroughly coated.

Drop by rounded teaspoons onto waxed paper or foil. Cool (or chill) until firm. Store in covered container in cool place (or in

CARAMEL PRETZEL NUT POPCORN

This is a very good holiday treat that my kids can't get enough of. It combines the sweetness of caramel with the saltiness of pretzels, nuts and popcorn. There is no mess because it is mixed in a large throw-away brown bag!"

INGREDIENTS:

8 cups broken salted pretzels
20 cups popped popcorn
4 cups dry roasted peanuts
3 cups brown sugar
3/4 cup light corn syrup
1 1/2 cups butter
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large paper grocery bag
Pam vegetable spray

DIRECTIONS:

Place the pretzels, popcorn and peanuts into a large paper bag sprayed with the Pam, Set aside.

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Cook, stirring to melt the butter and dissolve the sugar, until the mixture comes to a boil. Once the mixture is at a full boil, continue to cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.

Remove from the heat, and stir in the salt, vanilla, and baking soda. The mixture will foam up when you add the soda, so use a long spoon to stir.

Immediately pour the sugar mixture over the popcorn and pretzels in the bag. Shake until evenly coated.

For a crispier treat, boil the sugar mixture longer, or bake the finished mix in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 10 minutes.

MERRY CHRISTMAS & JALAPENO CHRISTMAS COOKIES!

2011-12-08T10:42:00.000-08:00

I'm inviting all my Blogging friends to join me in returning to the traditional greeting of "MERRY CHRISTMAS" instead of the politically correct "Happy Holidays"!! If you agree with me, please re-post this message.....MERRY CHRISTMAS! We need Christ back into our lives
GOD IS WELCOME IN MY HOUSE。* 。
° 。 ° ˛˚˛ * _Π____*。*˚
˚ ˛ •˛•˚ */________/~＼。˚ ˚ ˛
˚ ˛ •˛• ˚ ｜田田｜門｜ •
... If God is also welcome in your House re post this -- Keep CHRIST in CHRISTmas!

I for one, am sick & tired of others telling me what is politically correct to say. There wouldn't be any holiday without the birth of CHRIST.
So as always I will continue to say "Merry Christmas" not Happy Holidays!
I will also call my tree a Christmas Tree not a holiday tree.

CRANBERRY JALAPENO COOKIES

These are really good and look so festive.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups all-purpose flour
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup white vinegar
3 jalapeno peppers, chopped
1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
12 ounces fresh cranberries
Confectioners' sugar

DIRECTIONS:

Place flour in bowl of food processor. With processor running, drop in chunks of the cream cheese and butter. Process until dough is formed.

(Alternatively, mix the cream cheese and butter in a large mixing bowl by hand or with electric beater. Slowly blend in flour until dough is formed.)

Wrap dough in wax paper or plastic wrap. Chill for at least one hour. While the dough is freezing, make the cranberry mixture. Place the water and vinegar in a 3-quart saucepan. Bring to a boil and let boil 5 minutes. Add the jalapeno peppers and the sugar. Return to a boil and let boil 5 minutes. Mix in the cranberries. Return to a boil and let boil 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour onto jelly roll pan. Chill for at least one hour.

Pre-heat oven to 350 F. Dust your work surface with confectioners' sugar. Working with a small chunk of dough, roll dough to about 1/4" thick. Cut dough into 2" squares. You can re-use the dough scraps.

Place dough squares on cookie sheet sprayed with vegetable oil spray (do not *grease* the pan or you'll have a real mess!). Put about 1 teaspoon cranberry-jalapeno relish in the center of each dough square. Bring 2 corners of the dough-square up and seal well.

Bake 12 minutes. If cookies unfold during baking, press them back into shape while warm.

Remove to a baking rack to cool completely. Dust lightly with confectioners' sugar.
Recipe from christmas-cookies.com

IN MEMORY

2011-09-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

A year ago today my oldest grandchild was shot & killed.
It has been a very hard year on me trying to understand this senseless killing.
To top it off I have been trying to put up a brave front for my daughter, David's brother, sister and 2 sons.

That was a big mistake and it finally got the best of me.

David's death left a big void in my life as he lived with me and I loved him so much, as did everyone else.

Now when I think of David a smile comes to my heart before tears to my eyes.

I realized I needed help and that is where I have been. I thank everyone who wrote & emailed me showing their concern. It helped me through this so much. A big shout out goes to Linda & Johnty.

Please remember David in your prayers.

MILLION DOLLAR PIE & HERSHEY CORN FLAKE BARS!

2011-06-08T07:06:00.000-07:00

GARAGE SALE!

Tomorrow is the Divine Mercy’s youth sale. It is held in the school’s gym and is always chock full of goodies.
The nice thing about this big sale is everything is separated into categories, so you only have to go to the area you are interested in.
I have always came away with a big haul and the youth carry it out to your car.
My granddaughter Malinda is also having a garage sale, but know I don’t want anything from her. She is getting rid of baby stuff and little girl’s clothes.
Next week is Faribault’s city wide sale. I love going to garage sales, especially when I find some good buys. I then sell my finds on ebay.
What are some of the best things you have found at a garage sale?

MILLION DOLLAR PIEA delicious, sinfully creamy dessert that makes them cry for more. The perfect summertime treat!"

INGREDIENTS:

1 largest Cool Whip
1 c. chopped pecans
1/2 c. fresh lemon juice
1 med. crushed pineapple, drained
1 can condensed Eagle Brand milk
2 graham crackers crusts
Some grated lemon rind

DIRECTIONS:

Empty Cool Whip, drained pineapple, chopped pecans in large mixing bowl. Add Eagle Brand milk and fresh lemon juice to above ingredients. Stir well. Mixture will thicken. Pour into 2 graham cracker crusts and place in refrigerator to chill for about 1-2 hours before serving.

HERSHEY CORN FLAKE BARS
INGREDIENTS:

3/4 c. dark Karo corn syrup
1 c. chunky peanut butter
4 Hershey chocolate bars
3/4 c. white sugar
3 c. corn flakes, crushed

DIRECTIONS:

In a saucepan, heat the corn syrup and the sugar until bubbly and melted. Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter until melted. Mix the warm ingredients with the crushed corn flakes and spread into a 9x13 inch cake pan.

Place the Hershey bars on top of the corn flake mix and allow to melt for several minutes. Spread the warmed chocolate uniformly across the top of the bar mixture.
This recipe is not compatible with any weight loss diet and will result in an immediate will power collapse.

PEACH CHEESECAKE PIE, PINK LEMONADE PIE & SUMMER IS HERE!

2011-06-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

Summer is here!

It is suppose to reach 100 degrees today, for first time in 5 years.
Went outside early this morning to get some yard work done before it got too hot, but that ended when my grand daughter Malinda Sue, her 3 children Ethan 5, Evelyn 4 Aiden 2 and the new puppy (golden retriever) stopped over. Had a great visit and got the children on a sugar high. They ate a whole package of cookies….Well what are great grand mothers for anyway. Evelyn picked the flowers off the chives and ate them, Aiden brought me all the knick knack red birds that I have in the gazebo and Ethan used the shrub cutters and cut up some dead branches for the fire pit The puppy kept trying to go into the pond and then hiding under the hostas (cool there) . I can remember when all of this would of upset me but no more. I have reached the point that I realize what is truly important, children just being children. I want my great grand children to just have happy memories of being with granny.

PINK LEMONADE PIE

Perfect summer time pie. I have been making this pie for years & years; it is fast and easy for anyone to make.

INGREDIENTS:

2 graham cracker pie crusts
2 cans sweetened condensed milk,
1 11 1/2oz. can frozen lemonade concentrate
2 tubs cool-whip
1-2 drops red food coloring

DIRECTIONS:

Allow lemonade to thaw at room temperature. Mix together sweetened condensed milk, lemonade and cool whip. Add drops of red food coloring.
Pour into pie crusts and allow to chill before serving.

PEACH CHEESECAKE PIE

My tv and internet server provider was out from 5 till I went to bed last night and since it was too hot to go outside and work I decided to make this pie. I am so glad I did as it was so good. I love anything with peaches.

INGREDIENTS:

1 prepared pie crust for a 9-inch pie
1 lb. 13 oz sliced canned peaches in syrup
2 tbsp. cornstarch
1 cup sugar
2 tbsp. honey or agave syrup
1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla
2 eggs, beaten
1 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 (3 oz) pkg Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
butter, softened

DIRECTIONS:

Filling:

Drain peaches, reserving syrup.
In a bowl, combine syrup, cornstarch, 1/2 sugar, honey, pumpkin pie spice and vanilla. Add peaches and mix lightly.

Topping:

In a small saucepan, combine eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, lemon juice and and 2 tbsp. of the reserved syrup (from can). Cook over medium heat, uncovered, until the mixture has thickened (about 15 minutes).
Blend room temperature cream cheese with yogurt. Stir this into the mixture in the saucepan and beat until smooth. Allow to cool for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, line a pie pan with crust. After mixture cools, fill pie crust with peach mixture. Dot with pats of butter.
Cover with cheesecake topping.
Bake in a preheated 425°F oven for 10 minutes. Shield edge of pie with foil and reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Bake for another 30-35 minutes, or until deep golden brown

JUNE’S GIVEWAY!
I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and I will be drawing names from Followers that comment.

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win’
If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar & you win you will also get a surprise gift!.
Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The JUNE Giveaway is

“THREE BUNCHES OF HANGING TOBACCO LEAVES”

THINGS I MISS, TEQUILA LIME CHICKEN FAJITAS & JUNE"S GIVEAWAY!

2011-06-06T06:06:00.000-07:00

JUNE’S GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and will be drawing names from Followers that comment.

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win’
If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar & you win you will also get a surprise gift!.
Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The JUNE Giveaway is

“THREE BUNCHES OF HANGING TOBACCO LEAVES”

THINGS I MISS

The sound of a wood screen door closing in the summer

Shopping in Woolworth's for Paper Dolls & Rubber Dollies

People dressing in their Sunday best for Church.

Women wearing hats

Children screaming & laughing as they play red rover, kick the can, jacks & marbles.

Going to the soda fountain in Walgreen's for a chocolate soda

These are a few things I miss. What do you miss?

TEQUILA LIME CHICKEN FAJITAS

Host a fun fiesta in your own backyard with this festive recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

6 large boneless/skinless chicken breasts

Marinade:

1/2 Cup tequila
1/2 Cup lime juice (juice of 4 limes)
1/4 Cup olive oil
1 TB. chili powder
1 TB. ground cumin
1 TB. minced garlic
1 TB. cilantro, dried or 1/4 Cup fresh, chopped
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground black pepper

Fajitas:

1 TB. olive oil
2 medium green pepper, cut into thin slices
2 medium red or yellow pepper, cut into thin slices
1 large sweet onion, cut into medium-sized pieces
12 large flour tortillas

DIRECTIONS:

Combine the marinade ingredients and pour into a zip-top bag. Add the chicken breasts and marinate at least a few hours (overnight is best) in the refrigerator.

Grill the chicken breasts over medium-high heat for about 7-8 minutes per side or until done. Let rest a few minutes, and then cut into 1/2-inch strips immediately before serving.

While the chicken is grilling, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Add the peppers and onion and cook for no more than 3-5 minutes so that the vegetables are still a little crisp.

Serve the chicken and vegetables on the flour tortillas with sides of rice and/or beans.
Recipe from Penzys

JUNE’S GIVEAWAY & STRAWBERRY JELLO CAKE!

2011-06-02T18:45:00.000-07:00

JUNE’S GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and I will be drawing names from Followers that comment.

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win.
If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar & you win you will also get a surprise gift!.
Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The JUNE Giveaway is

“THREE BUNCHES OF HANGING TOBACCO LEAVES”

STRAWBERRY JELLO CAKE

An old family favorite.

INGREDIENTS:

1 white cake mix
1 3 oz. package strawberry Jell-O
1 package frozen strawberries
1 container topping like Cool Whip

DIRECTIONS:

Bake cake according to directions. Mix Jell-o with 1 cup warm water. Make several holes in top of cake without going through and then pour Jell-o over cake.
Microwave strawberries until thawed and pour on cake.
Add Cool Whip over all and refrigerate until chilled.
Serve.

I am drying a Pineapple and it is time to take it out of the oven, so have to run. Have a good weekend!

NO BAKE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER SEVEN LAYER BARS COOKIES & THE WINNER IS!

2011-06-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

MAY'S GIVEAWAY!

****And the WINNER is ROBIN of THE CRANKY CROW!****

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”

The surprised gift for posting the giveaway on her side bar is this
Raisin Garland.

Congratulations Robin and thanks for commenting & posting the Giveaway on your side bar.

NO BAKE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER SEVEN LAYER BARS COOKIES

These seven layer bars take the best of the dessert world and layer them all into one little no bake cookie.

I want to thank Pamela (My Mans Belly) for giving me permission to use her picture and to share this OMG Bar Cookie recipe with you. I just know you & family will enjoy it as much as I & my family did.

INGREDIENTS:

Cookie

6 Cups Corn Flakes (divided)
4 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter (divided)
1 10.5 Ounce Bag Miniature Marshmallows (divided)

Peanut Butter Filling

1/3 Cup Unsalted Butter
1/3 Cup Creamy Peanut Butter
1/3 Cup Honey
1/2 Cup Powdered Sugar

Pretzel Filling

1 Cup Crushed Pretzel Sticks

Chocolate Filling

4 Ounces Chocolate Chips
2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
White Chocolate Topping
4 Ounces White Chocolate
Nonpareils

Now to get the Directions for making the cookies you need to go to My Mans Belly blog by clicking HERE

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BONBONS & MAY'S GIVEAWAY!

2011-05-31T06:27:00.000-07:00

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win’
If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar you will earn 2 more chances to win + a surprise gift!.

Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.
The bowl in the picture isn’t the one you will receive. It is a smaller bowl.

I will be drawing the name of the winner tomorrow, so today is your last chance at winning the clothespins!

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BONBONS

This delicious recipe is an old family favorite!

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup peanut butter
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup chopped dates (NOT the prepackaged chopped type)
1 Tbsp. butter, softened
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
1/2 cup milk chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS:

In large bowl, combine peanut butter, pecans, powdered sugar, dates, and butter and mix well; form into 1" balls.

Melt semisweet chips and 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips together in a glass measuring cup in microwave on medium power about 2 minutes, stirring once, until melted and smooth. Stir in remaining 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips and stir constantly until smooth (this tempers the chocolate, setting up crystals so it will harden).

Dip each ball into melted chocolate mixture and set on parchment paper. Let stand until chocolate is firm, then store tightly covered at room temperature.

NATIONAL MOMENT OF REMEMBRANCE!

2011-05-29T06:25:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day is not about war. It’s about people. It’s about those dedicated individuals — most of them young — who died serving their country and their fellow Americans as well as future generations. In other words, all of us.

We Americans are at our best when we come together bonded by a noble purpose. And that’s the reason for the National Moment of Remembrance on Memorial Day.

Please come together by pausing for a moment at 3 p.m. local time, wherever you are, to acknowledge the sacrifice of our fallen.

Unfortunately, too many of our citizens forget to remember. We need to pay tribute to the nearly 2 million men and women who have died for us. Our freedoms should remind us of their sacrifice and our debt to them.

It is our duty to never forget them, to keep them in our hearts and in our actions. They were the best of the best — the pride of the USA. We owe them the commitment to reflect on what they did and to put remembrance into action. This means to give back to our country and to live honoring them every day, not just on Memorial Day.

To all of my friends out there — please join me in a moment of silence at 3 p.m on Memorial Day!

May our fallen rest in peace; may our country once again live in peace as well

MY WISH FOR YOU!

2011-05-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

“This is my wish for you: Comfort on difficult days, smiles when sadness intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds, laughter to kiss your lips, sunsets to warm your heart, hugs when spirits sag, beauty for your eyes to see, friendships to brighten your being, faith so that you can believe, confidence for when you doubt, courage to know yourself, patience to accept the truth, Love to complete your life.”

MEMORIAL DAY

Before we slice open the hot dog packages and throw some burgers on the grill this weekend, I thought it might be appropriate to explore the true origins and meaning of Memorial Day.
The history of Memorial Day dates back to just after the Civil War.

"Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. While Waterloo, New York, was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860s tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868.
"Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, and was first observed on May 30,1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in every state on the last Monday in May (as decreed by Congress with the passage of the National Holiday Act of 1971)."

So if you know a veteran, an active member of the military, or recall someone who fought for this country but has passed on, take a moment to consider their service. We are all better off for their sacrifice.

Enjoy the weekend!

MARGARITA GRILLED CHICKEN SALAD & VANILLA ORANGE BALLS!

2011-05-26T07:54:00.000-07:00

MARGARITA GRILLED CHICKEN SALAD

There's no alcohol in the margarita drink mix marinade, but the flavor is all there. Rich avocado and juicy tomatoes add their light fresh flavors to this grilled chicken salad. Loved, Loved this salad!

INGREDIENTS:

4 medium skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1-1/2 cups margarita drink mix (contains no alcohol)
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. finely shredded lime peel
1/2 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing
2 Tbsp. lime juice
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
4 medium tomatoes, sliced
2 medium avocados, halved, seeded, peeled, and sliced
1/2 of a medium red onion, thinly sliced and separated into pieces
1/4 tsp. cracked black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag set in a shallow dish. For marinade combine margarita mix, cumin, and lime peel. Pour over chicken; seal bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for 2 to 8 hours. Drain chicken, discarding marinade

For a charcoal grill, grill chicken on the rack of an uncovered grill directly over medium coals for 12 to 15 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink (170F), turning once halfway through grilling. (For a gas grill, preheat grill. Reduced heat to medium. Place chicken on grill rack over heat. Cover and grill as above.) Remove chicken from grill; cool slightly.

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, lime juice, and cayenne. Arrange tomatoes, avocados, and red onion on 4 salad plates. Coarsely chop chicken. Add to salads. Drizzle with mayonnaise mixture and sprinkle with black pepper.
Recipe from bhg.com.

VANILLA ORANGE BALLS

This easy recipe is a great choice for a child's first recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

1 (12-ounce) box vanilla wafer cookies
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1/2 cup coconut
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup orange marmalade
2 tablespoons corn syrup

DIRECTIONS:

In a food processor, combine vanilla wafers with almonds and coconut; process until fine crumbs form. Add powdered sugar and process until blended. Or, pour wafer mixture into a bowl and add powdered sugar.

In microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and butter. Cook on 50% power for 1 minute, remove, and stir. Continue microwaving for 30-second intervals on 50% power until mixture is smooth and blended.

Stir into wafer mixture along with orange juice, marmalade, and corn syrup.
Form 1" balls. Roll into additional powdered sugar or coconut, then let stand until firm. Store, tightly covered, at room temperature.

MAY GIVEAWAY!

The time for the drawing is near, so be sure to comment to have a chance to win the May's Giveaway!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and I will be drawing names from followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The May Giveaway is!

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win’

If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar you will earn 2 more chances to win + a surprise gift!.

Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.
The bowl in the picture isn’t the one you will receive. It is a smaller bowl.

SAUSAGE POTATO LASAGNA, CORN & BLUEBERRY SALAD, & CHOCOLATE ECLAIR CAKE

2011-05-25T07:16:00.000-07:00

SAUSAGE POTATO LASAGNA

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 pound bulk Italian sausage or ground turkey sausage
2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
4 medium (1-1/4 pounds) potatoes (such as long white, round white, round red, or yellow), peeled and thinly sliced (4 cups)
1 beaten egg
1-1/2 cups ricotta cheese or cream-style cottage cheese, drained
1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
1 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons margarine or butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1-1/2 cups milk
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (4 ounces)

DIRECTIONS:

In a 10-inch skillet cook sausage and mushrooms until meat is brown. Drain off fat.

In a large saucepan cook sliced potatoes, covered, in boiling water for 5 minutes (they won't be thoroughly cooked). Drain; set aside.

For filling, stir together egg, ricotta or cottage cheese, and Parmesan or Romano cheese. Stir in spinach.

For sauce, in a medium saucepan cook onion and garlic in hot margarine or butter until onion is tender but not brown. Stir in flour and nutmeg. Add milk all at once. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.

Layer half of the potatoes in a greased 2-quart rectangular baking dish. Top with half of the spinach filling. Top with half of the meat mixture, half of the sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, except reserve remaining cheese.

Cover with foil and bake in a 350 degree F. oven about 35 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Uncover; sprinkle remaining cheese atop and bake about 5 minutes more or until cheese is melted. Let stand for 10 minutes

CORN & BLUEBERRY SALAD

The flavors of this salad are amazing.I used frozen corn and it was delicious, and very healthy!

INGREDIENTS:

6 ears fresh sweet corn, husked
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 small cucumber, sliced
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped*
2 Tbsp. lime juice
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 Tbsp. honey
1/2 tsp. ground cumin

DIRECTIONS:

In Dutch oven bring salted water to boiling. Add corn. Cook, covered, 5 minutes, or until tender. When cool enough to handle, cut corn from cobs.

In a serving bowl combine corn, blueberries, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. For dressing, in screw-top jar combine lime juice, oil, honey, cumin, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cover; shake well to combine. Add to salad; toss. Cover and refrigerate overnight (up to 24 hours).

*Hot peppers, such as jalepeños, contain oils that can burn skin and eyes. Wear plastic gloves when working with them. If using bare hands wash well

CHOCOLATE ECLAIR CAKE

Be sure to let it sit overnight before indulging. It makes the frosting more like the texture of éclair frosting. Much better that way!

INGREDIENTS:

1 lb. box graham crackers
2 sm. boxes instant French vanilla pudding
3 1/2 c. milk
1 (9 oz.) container Cool Whip

DIRECTIONS:

Butter bottom of 13 x 9 inch pan. Line with 1 layer of graham crackers. Mix pudding with milk. Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes. Blend in Cool Whip; pour 1/2 of mixture over crackers. Place 2nd layer of crackers over pudding. Pour remaining pudding over this. Cover with more crackers. Refrigerate for 2 hours.

ICING FOR CHOCOLATE ECLAIR CAKE:

INGREDIENTS:

6 tbsp. cocoa powder
2 tbsp. oil
2 tsp. white Karo syrup
2 tsp. vanilla
3 tbsp. soft butter
1 1/2 c. confectioners' sugar
3 tbsp. milk

DIRECTIONS:

Beat together and spread on cake. Refrigerate for 24 hours

CHICKEN AND CREAMY CORN, ROASTED POTATOES AND ONIONS & JELLO RHUBARB CAKE!

2011-05-24T09:40:00.000-07:00

CHICKEN & CREAMY CORN

Looking for a quick and easy summer meal to make? Both the boneless chicken and the corn on the cob are brushed with olive oil and seasoning, and then grilled.

INGREDIENTS:

2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. smoked paprika
3 fresh ears of sweet corn
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/3 cup sour cream
Milk
1/4 cup shredded fresh basil

DIRECTIONS:

In small bowl combine olive oil and paprika. Brush corn and chicken with oil mixture. Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper. Grill directly over medium coals for 12 to 15 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink (170 degrees F), turning once.

Carefully cut kernels from cob by firmly holding the corn at the top (using a kitchen towel to grip, if necessary) and slicing downward with a sharp knife. Transfer to bowl; stir in sour cream. Season with additional salt and pepper. Stir in milk to desired creaminess. Slice chicken breasts. Serve with corn; sprinkle shredded basil.

ROASTED POTATOES AND ONIONS

Give your potatoes a makeover by roasting them with onions and then tossing both in creamy, tangy blue cheese salad dressing.

INGREDIENTS:

2 lbs Fingerling or small new potatoes
1 Small red onion, peeled and sliced
2 tbsp Olive oil
1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Fresh ground black pepper
3/4 cup Blue Cheese Dressing
3 tbsp Chopped parsley
1 tbsp Chopped chives
1/4 cup Crumbled blue cheese, optional

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Cut potatoes into halves. (Potatoes should all be about the same size, cut some potatoes into quarter pieces if necessary.) Place potatoes and onions on a roasting pan; drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast potato mixture for 17 to 22 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden.

Arrange potatoes and onions on a platter and toss with blue cheese salad dressing. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, chives and optional blue cheese

JELLO RHUBARB CAKE

My grandchildren don’t like rhubarb, but I have fooled them every time with this!

INGREDIENTS:

1 pkg. white or yellow cake mix
1 c. sugar
4 c. rhubarb, cut fine
1 pkg. red Jello
1/2 c. sugar
1/4 c. flour
1/4 c. butter

DIRECTIONS:

Mix cake mix according to directions on package. Pour into a greased and floured 9"x13" pan. Mix rhubarb, 1 cup sugar and Jello. Spoon on top of cake mix. Then mix 1/2 cup sugar, flour and butter until crumbly. Put this over top of cake. Bake in 350 degree oven for 35 to 40 minutes.

ROASTED ASPARAGUS, CAULIFLOWER WITH TOMATOES & TORNADO!

2011-05-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

My prayers go out to the Tornado victims in Joplin. I know what it is like to have this happen to your town.
I was a senior at Waco High when a tornado struck Waco,Texas. Thank god I did what my mother had told me to do, and catch the bus right outside the school instead of walking downtown with my friends to catch that bus. I would have been right by the tallest building in Waco and look at the picture.

Lost so many friends in this tragedy. I am always sadden when this happens. Let us all remember & pray for residents of Joplin.

Waco, Texas: May 11, 1953
A powerful (F5) tornado ripped through downtown Waco, Texas, at 4:10 p.m. (CDT), May 11, 1953, killing 114 people and injuring nearly 600 more. More than 600 businesses, 850 homes and 2,000 cars were destroyed or severely damaged for an estimated loss of $41 million ($275 million in 2002 dollars). The deadliest tornado in Texas history and the tenth deadliest in the nation, the twister touched down about 10 miles south of the city. By the time it reached Waco, the tornado was moving almost due north, cutting a path of destruction a third of a mile wide through the heart of the city.
The 1953 Waco tornado outbreak was a tornado outbreak that affected portions of the central United States from May 9 - May 11, 1953. It is most known for the F5 tornado that struck Waco, Texas on May 11, 1953, killing 144 people.
144 deaths, with 597 injured and up to $41.2 million in property damage. 196 businesses and factories were destroyed, 217 sustained major damage, and 179 sustained lesser damages. 150 homes were destroyed, 250 sustained major damage, and 450 sustained lesser damages. Over 2000 cars were damaged or destroyed and the First United Methodist Church was severely damaged. Over half the dead - 61 - were in a single city block bounded by 4th and 5th streets and Austin and Franklin avenues.

On a lighter note:

CAULIFLOWER WITH TOMATOES

Super easy, A great recipe! It’s a nice change from steamed veggies and has a ton of flavor.

7 cups small cauliflower florets
3 plum tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves minced garlic
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin seeds
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon salt
pinch cayenne
lemon juice
cilantro

Toss small cauliflower florets and chopped plum tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic,cumin seeds,turmeric, a pinch of cayenne,salt, and pepper to taste on a baking sheet. Roast in a 450 degrees F oven, about 25 minutes. Sprinkle with lemon juice and chopped cilantro.

ROASTED ASPARAGUS

Love my asparagus cooked this way, for an added plus to flavor: Remove asparagus from oven and sprinkle with freshly grated Reggiano Parmesan

INGREDIENTS:

2 pounds fresh asparagus
Good olive oil
Kosher salt, plus extra for sprinkling
Freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Break off the tough ends of the asparagus and, if they're thick, peel them. Place the asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, then toss to coat the asparagus completely. Spread the asparagus in a single layer and sprinkle liberally with salt and pepper. Roast the asparagus for 25 minutes, until tender but still crisp.

May’s Monthly Giveaway!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and I will be drawing names from followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

May"s Giveaway is

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win!

If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar you will earn 2 more chances to win + a surprise gift!.

Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.
The bowl in the picture isn’t the one you will receive. It is a smaller bowl.

PIMENTO CHEESE, PIMENTO CHEESE BURGER & MAY GIVEAWAY!

2011-05-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

May’s Monthly Giveaway!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and I will be drawing names from followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The May Giveaway is

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win!

If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar you will earn 2 more chances to win + a surprise gift!.
Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.
The bowl in the picture isn’t the one you will receive. It is a smaller bowl.

I received an email from Linda from Parker's Paradise commenting on how different foods bring back memories and Pimento Cheese does that for me. My mother made pimento cheese every week and there was always a bowl of it in the ice box. She would use it to make sandwiches for daddy's lunch box. As a child I hated it (she never had to worry about me sneaking some, now pimento stuffed olives was another thing). As I became older & developed better taste buds I began to love the cheese. Thanks Linda for reminding me to remember such good times!

PIMENTO CHEESE

Pimiento cheese is also known as "Southern caviar."

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/2 cup shredded best-quality sharp Cheddar
1/2 cup real mayonnaise, plus more for grilling
1 (4-ounce) jar chopped pimentos, drained
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Pulse the cheese, mayo, pimentos and cayenne in the food processor until just combined. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and chill for at least 3 hours.

This can also be used as an entertaining dip. Just arrange some baby carrots and cut up some celery sticks around the cheese. People will flock to it.

PIMENTO CHEESE BURGER

INGREDIENTS:

Pimento Cheese:

1 cup shredded extra-sharp Cheddar, room temperature
1/3 cup shredded Monterey jack, room temperature
3 tablespoons mayonnaise, room temperature
2 tablespoons cream cheese, room temperature
2 ounces jarred diced pimento peppers, drained
1 tablespoon bread and butter pickle juice
1/2 tablespoon horseradish sauce
1 teaspoon yellow mustard

Honey Slaw:

2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon honey
1 1/4 cups shredded cabbage

8 slices thick-cut applewood smoked bacon

Patties:

1 1/4 pounds ground chuck
1/4 pound cured and smoked country ham, finely chopped (or chopped in a food processor)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
•
4 potato hamburger buns, split
1/2 cup crushed kettle-cooked plain potato chips

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
To prepare Pimento Cheese, in a medium mixing bowl, combine Cheddar and Jack cheeses, mayonnaise, cream cheese, pimento peppers, pickle juice, horseradish sauce, and mustard; mix until well combined.

To prepare Honey Slaw, in a small mixing bowl combine mayonnaise, honey, and cabbage; mix until well combined.

Heat a 12-inch nonstick grill pan over medium-high heat. Add bacon and cook until the bacon is crispy, about 5 minutes, flipping once. Drain on paper towels. Pour off almost all of the bacon fat from the pan, leaving a very thin layer.

To make the patties, combine the beef, country ham, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Handling the meat as little as possible to avoid compacting it, mix well. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties to fit the buns.
Using the same grill pan as before, cook the hamburgers over medium-high heat for 3 minutes per side or until cooked medium rare.

Meanwhile, place buns on a rack in the oven. Bake for 3 to 5 minutes. Also, place the plates that the burgers will be served on in the oven to heat.

To assemble the burgers, spread a generous amount of Pimento Cheese on the cut sides of the buns. On each bun bottom (on top of the Pimento Cheese), place a thin layer of Honey Slaw. Top the slaw with a burger patty, 2 slices of bacon, and crushed potato chips. Add the bun tops.

Place the completed hamburgers on a nonstick baking sheet and bake in the oven for 1 minute. Serve burgers on warm plates.
Recipes from Food Network.

CHICKEN CAESAR BURGERS, ST JAMES’ BAKED BEANS & SUMMER CORN SALAD

2011-05-12T06:38:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day for many means the beginning of Summer. To others, a day off to shop. But, as I am sure you really know Memorial Day is a day to honor those who have died in the service of this country.

MEMORIAL DAY RECIPES

CHICKEN CAESAR BURGERS

This is a great no-guilt recipe. This is tasty and Juicy and NOT at all dry. My Family loves them! Makes two burgers.

INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1-1/2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 pound ground chicken
2 hamburger buns, split
1/4 cup torn romaine
4 teaspoons fat-free creamy Caesar salad dressing

DIRECTIONS:

In a small bowl, combine the onion, 1 tablespoon cheese, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Crumble chicken over mixture and mix well. Shape into two patties.
Grill burgers, covered, over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side or until a meat thermometer reads 165° and juices run clear. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Serve on buns with romaine and salad dressing.

ST JAMES’ BAKED BEANS

If you have never tried these beans before, then the greatest taste sensation has been missed. A summer favorite!

INGREDIENTS;

6 slices bacon, diced
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 (16-ounce) can pork and beans, drained
1 (16-ounce) can lima beans, drained
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10-ounce) package sharp Cheddar cheese, cubed
1 cup ketchup
3/4 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 325 degrees.
Butter a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
In a small skillet, sauté the bacon and onions until the bacon is crisp and onions are lightly browned; drain well.
In a large bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Add bacon-onion mixture; mix well. Pour bean mixture into prepared casserole.
Bake uncovered at 325 degrees for 1 1/2 hours
Recipe from the Cookbooklet

SUMMER CORN SALAD

This beautiful salad truly captures the summer season. It's chock full of fresh veggies and basil, and feta cheese gives it a rich, tangy flavor the whole family will love.

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
5 teaspoons olive oil, divided
1-1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1-1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried basil
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

DIRECTIONS:

In a small bowl, whisk the lime juice, salt, pepper sauce and 4 teaspoons oil; set aside.
In a large skillet, sauté corn in remaining oil until tender. Transfer to a salad bowl; add the tomatoes, cucumber, onion and basil. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat.
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving or refrigerate until chilled. Sprinkle with cheese just before serving.
Recipes from Taste of Home

FOUR MEMORIAL DAY DECORATIONS TO MAKE!

2011-05-11T06:25:00.000-07:00

FOUR MEMORIAL DAY DECORATIONS

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, National Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic and was first observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. Memorial Day is a solemn occasion honoring the American soldiers who gave their lives in war. The values those men fought to defend form the essence of our country: freedom and the rights of the individual.

Try these Memorial Day craft ideas for decorating your front door and your beautiful porch!

RED WHITE BLUE AND GOLD DOOR DECORATION

Get three ears of fresh corn with husks and soak them in a gallon of water.
Add a splash of chlorine bleach.

Pull the husks back and arrange together at the top. Dry the ears of corn and set aside to dry thoroughly.

Wrap a plastic bag over the husks and spray paint the ears of corn in white spray paint primer (or use a brush).

Let the ears dry. Then paint them in red, white, and blue.

After they dry, wrap plastic over the ears of the corn and spray paint the husks in gold. After completely dry, tie the husks together and hang from your door!

Sorry there is no picture. Ii is stored in the attic and I need someone to climb up there to get it.

Decorate your door with a homemade Memorial Day Wreath. Wreaths really make your front door festive

MEMORIAL DAY STARS AND STRIPES WREATH

Wave the flag and bring out the red, white, and blue with this patriotic wreath. Simply place mini flag toothpicks (about three packages of 100 flags) into a styrofoam wreath (we used a 10″ styrofoam disk and cutout a 7″ circle out, because some wreaths are extruded and are hard for the toothpicks to push through) until the wreath is completely full and there is no white showing. Then your wreath is ready to hang; greeting every guest that arrives!

STREAMER FLAG

Make your own star spangled door hanger for Memorial Day, using affordable craft items you probably already have in your home. Nothing displays American pride during the holidays like our own American flag. Show your patriotism during the holidays by decorating your entrance with an easy to make streamer flag. Hang on your front door to welcome party guests for a day of celebration

SUPPLY LIST:

1 roll of red streamers (1.75” thickness)
1 roll of white streamers (1.75” thickness)
Blue construction or craft paper
Cardboard or similar strong paper or poster board
13 to 50 mini white gift bows
Ruler/straight edge
Double sided tape
3M Spray Mount, ReMount, Super 77 or similar spray adhesive
Xacto blade/hobby knife or scissors
A small piece of yarn or string

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cut seven strips of red streamers measuring 35 inches long.

Cut six strips of white streamers measuring 35 inches long.

Cut a strip of cardboard or poster board approximately 26 inches long and 2 inches wide.

Line strip of poster board with double-sided tape and adhere alternating red and white streamer stripes.

Once all stripes are attached trim any cardboard excess and flip cardboard binding over to attach a piece of yarn or string for hanging. Flip back over.

Cut out a 13” x 14.75” piece of blue construction or craft paper. Spray back of blue paper with spray adhesive. Let dry for 30 seconds to lessen tack unless using ReMount which is specifically useful for repositioning. Lay blue paper in top left corner of striped streamer pattern.

Flip entire flag over to adjust streamers by pulling up gently and relaying where streamers may have wrinkled. Take care to line up the fourth red steamer stripe with the bottom of the blue paper so that the bottoms remain flush.

Flip flag back over to front. Assemble mini white bows in appropriate star formation, being sure to place them before adhering. If using 50 bows to represent 50states, create nine rows of stars alternating six and five star rows. If limited to 13 bows, use a pot or pan lid or similar guide to assemble stars in a circle pattern to represent the original 13 colonies.

Hang on front door and watch flag wave in a gentle breeze.

CRAFTING TIPS:

While most of these materials can be found cheaply at the craft or dollar store, try going through your gift wrap and holiday items to see what materials you might already have in storage when preparing for this project. Wide ribbons can replace streamers and star stickers can replace bows.

Try varying the size of your flag if you have fewer amounts of materials and thin ribbons. Smaller flags can be used to decorate gift bags, buffet tables and more.

Door hangers can be used in and outdoors, but be sure to bring your streamer flag inside in the event of rain or gusty winds

MEMORIAL DAY WIND SOCK

You can make a patriotic wind sock from an oatmeal box, construction paper, string, and crepe paper streamers.

SUPPLY LIST:

A cylindrical cardboard oatmeal box
Construction paper (blue and white)
Red and white crepe paper streamers
Glue
String
Scissors
Hole punch

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cut the bottom off a cylindrical cardboard oatmeal box.
Cover the box with blue construction paper and then glue on white construction paper stars.

Cut some red and white crepe paper streamers and glue or staple them to one end of the wind sock.

Punch four holes along the top of the wind sock.

Cut two pieces of string about a foot long. Tie the strings to the wind sock (tie the opposite ends of a string to holes on opposite sides of the cylinder).

Tie a longer piece of string to the smaller pieces - you'll hang the wind sock from this piece of string.

Hang your patriotic wind sock from your window or porch.

May’s Monthly Giveaway!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and I will be drawing names from followers that comment.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The May Giveaway is

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win.

*If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar you will earn 2 more chances to win + a surprise gift!.
Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.

The bowl in the picture isn’t the one you will receive. It is a smaller bowl.

TEX-MEX CHICKEN CACCIATORE, RHUBARB STRAWBERRY PIE, VIDALIA ONION BACON PIE & GIVEAWAY!

2011-05-10T07:24:00.000-07:00

On Mother's Day my children filled my heart with happiness!
I hope your children did the same for you. My oldest daughter came over and did my spring cleaning. It took her two days and was the best gift I received. Not only is my house clean, I also had the pleasure of her being here with me.

TEX-MEX CHICKEN CACCIATORE

A different version of Chicken Cacciatore. My family loves it..

INGREDIENTS:

4 chicken breasts, about 2-1/2 pounds (bone in)
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 (14-ounce) can pizza sauce
1 (8-ounce) jar taco sauce
1 medium onion, cut into wedges
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup frozen corn
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
3/4 cup cornbread stuffing for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, warm oil. Add chicken breasts and sauté until browned on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.

Reduce heat to medium-low and pour off all but 1 tablespoon oil. Add onion, garlic and bell peppers; cook, stirring often, until softened, about 6 minutes. Stir in pizza and taco sauces; add water and parsley. Return chicken to skillet; bring sauce to simmer. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 20 minutes, turning chicken after 10 minutes.

Stir in corn, turning chicken again; continue to simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes. Spoon into serving dish, sprinkle with corn stuffing. Serve over rice or pasta.

RHUBARB STRAWBERRY PIE

Rhubarb and strawberries combine for great flavor in this easy pie.

INGREDIENTS:

3/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon butter, melted
2 eggs, well beaten
3 cups diced rhubarb
1 cup sliced strawberries
1 (9-inch) regular piecrust
2 tablespoons turbinado sugar

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 400F.

Combine sugar, nutmeg and flour. Stir in melted butter. Add eggs and beat with a

whisk until smooth.

Place rhubarb and strawberries in piecrust. Pour egg mixture over top.

Bake 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350F and bake another 30 minutes. Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top while pie is warm

VIDALIA ONION BACON PIE

Caramelized onions, bacon and cheese fill this hearty quiche. Add 1/4 cup of chopped green onion to the filling to add a splash of green.

INGREDIENTS:

CRUST:
Cooking spray
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
2 tablespoons butter
2 to 4 tablespoons ice water

FILLING:
1 tablespoon butter
3 medium Vidalia or sweet onions, slivered
2 eggs
1/2 cup half-and-half
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for top
1 cup (4-ounces) shredded white Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
4 slices thick, smoky-style bacon, cooked and chopped

DIRECTIONS:

To prepare crust, coat a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate with cooking spray.

Place cornmeal, flour, baking powder and salt in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a pastry cutter blade; pulse to combine. Add egg and butter; pulse until mixed. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until a dough ball forms. This will form a sticky mass of dough. Press into pan. If the dough is too sticky, add a little cornmeal.
Preheat oven to 350F.

To prepare filling, melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and sauté 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Drain if necessary.

Combine eggs, half-and-half, salt and pepper in a bowl. Whisk well. On bottom of pie, sprinkle half the shredded cheese. Top with corn kernels, onions and bacon. Pour egg mixture over top. Top with remaining cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Bake 40 minutes, until top is set and browned

May’s Monthly Giveaway!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and I will be drawing names from followers that comment.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The May Giveaway is

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win’

*If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar you will earn 2 more chances to win + a surprise gift!.
Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.
The bowl in the picture isn’t the one you will receive. It is a smaller bowl.

CHICKEN IN WINE SAUCE, CHEESY HASH BROWN CASSEROLE & MAY'S GIVEAWAY!

2011-05-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

CHICKEN IN WINE SAUCE

The swiss cheese adds a wonderful dimension to the dish, and the stuffing/butter topping is incredible

INGREDIENTS:

4 large skinless boneless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons butter, melted, plus more for casserole
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 ounces (about 8 slices) Swiss cheese
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1/4 cup white wine
1 cup herb-flavored stuffing mix, crushed

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Add the chicken to a shallow buttered casserole and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Layer the cheese slices on top.
In a medium bowl, add the soup and the wine, season with salt and pepper and pour over the cheese. Sprinkle stuffing mix on top and drizzle with melted butter.* Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and serve.
Recipe from Paula Dean.

CHEESY HASH BROWN CASSEROLE

Serve this traditional casserole dish for your family’s favorite main course or side dish. If desired, add cooked, cubed ham or chicken for a simple, tasty meal

INGREDIENTS:

1 Bag Country Style Hash Browns
1 Can(s) CREAM OF CHICKEN SOUP
2 Cup(s) SOUR CREAM
1/2 Teaspoon(s) SALT
2 Cup(s) CHEDDAR CHEESE shredded
1/3 Cup(s) GREEN ONIONS sliced
1/4 Teaspoon(s) BLACK PEPPER ground
2 Cup(s) CORN FLAKES crushed
1/4 Cup(s) BUTTER melted

DIRECTIONS:

reheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat 13x9 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, whisk together soup, sour cream, salt and pepper. Stir in cheese, onion and Hash Browns until well mixed. Spoon evenly into baking dish.

In a medium bowl, mix together cereal and butter. Sprinkle evenly on top of Hash Brown mixture.

Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional sliced green onion if desired.
Recipe from OreIda

May’s Monthly Giveaway!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and I will be drawing names from followers that comment.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The May Giveaway is

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win’

*If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar you will earn 2 more chances to win + a surprise gift!.

Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.
The bowl in the picture isn’t the one you will receive. It is a smaller bowl.

MAY GIVEAWAY & RECIPES FOR MOTHER'S DAY!

2011-05-05T08:56:00.000-07:00

Sorry I am late on posting the May Giveaway. I have had so much company that it seems like I have a revolving front door!

May’s Monthly Giveaway!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. and I will be drawing names from followers that comment.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The May Giveaway is

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win.

*If you post about this Giveaway on your side bar you will earn 2 more chances to win + a surprise gift!.

Be sure to tell me you have posted the Giveaway in your comments.
The bowl in the picture is not the one you will receive. It is a smaller bowl.

Some Recipes for Mother's Day!

PINK LEMONADE CREAM CHEESE PIE

Very simple, very tasty pie. Cooking time is time in the freezer (don't leave it in there too long!) plus time to finish in the refrigerator.

INGREDIENTS:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup frozen pink lemonade concentrate
4 drops red food coloring (optional)
8 ounces whipped topping, with additional for garnish
1 graham cracker pie crust

DIRECTIONS:

In large bowl, beat cheese, lemonade concentrate and optional red food coloring until smooth.
Fold in whipped topping and put in graham cracker pie crust, garnishing with additional whipped topping.
Freeze 20 minutes, then move to refrigerator until serving

ALMOND CHICKEN WITH STRAWBERRY BALSAMIC SAUCE

Crispy chicken with a sweet-tart sauce, served alongside wilted spinach for this special Mother’s Day meal

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup panko (Japanese) bread crumbs
1/3 cup unblanched almonds, coarsely ground
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)
Butter-flavored cooking spray
3 teaspoons canola oil, divided
1/4 cup chopped shallots
1/3 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1/3 cup strawberry preserves
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
1 package (9 ounces) fresh baby spinach

DIRECTIONS:

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the bread crumbs, almonds, salt and pepper. Add chicken, one piece at a time, and shake to coat.
In a large nonstick skillet coated with butter-flavored spray, cook chicken in 2 teaspoons oil over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side or until juices run clear. Remove and keep warm.
In the same pan, cook shallots in remaining oil until tender. Stir in the broth, preserves, vinegar and rosemary. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 5-6 minutes or until thickened.
Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, bring 1/2 in. of water to a boil. Add spinach; cover and boil for 3-5 minutes or until wilted. Drain; serve with chicken and sauce

ORANGE SODA CAKE

This is a very simple to make cake. It's light and cool enough to be great anytime.

INGREDIENTS:

Cake
1 white cake mix
2 egg whites
1 can diet/regular orange soda

Filling

1 small box orange sugar free/regular jello
2 cups boiling water

Frosting

1 cup milk
1 small box instant sugar free/regular vanilla pudding
8 ounces Cool Whip

DIRECTIONS:

For Cake:
Mix cake mix with Orange soda. Put batter in a 9 x 13 x 2 inch pan, sprayed with Pam
Bake 30-35 minutes at 350degrees F.

For Filling:
When cake is cooled; poke holes all over cake with fork. Mix box of Jello with 2 cups boiling water until dissolved and poor directly over cake evenly, refrigerate 2 to 4 hours or until set. Frost

For Frosting:

Mix instant pudding with milk and beat until thick. Fold in Cool Whip. Spread over cake. Refrigerate.

WHY DO WE COOK, CINCO DE MAYO, MEXICAN RICE, MEXICAN BEAN SALAD & MONTHLY GIVEAWAY WINNER!!

2011-05-01T04:45:00.000-07:00

WHY DO WE COOK!

I believe that why we cook is as important as how and what we cook...We cook for the richness it brings to our lives and to why we cook is bigger than enjoying good food...Cooking, layered on day after day, builds a happiness for ourselves and the people around us that would not happen any other way...Some of our fondest memories involve cooking and our families.

Please leave a comment about your fondest memories involving cooking! If you do, you will get 3 extra chances in the monthly drawing. I will post tomorrow, what it will be.

CINCO DE MAYO MAY 5TH !!!!

The 5th of May is not Mexican Independence Day, but it should be.
And Cinco De Mayo is not an American holiday, but it should be.

Mexico declared its independence from mother Spain on midnight, the 15th of September, 1810. And it took 11 years before the first Spanish soldiers were told and forced to leave Mexico.

So, why Cinco De Mayo?
And why should Americans savor this day as well?

Because 4,000 Mexican soldiers smashed the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico, 100 miles east of Mexico City on the morning of May 5, 1862.
To help you celebrate Cinco De Mayo here are a couple recipes!

MEXICAN RICE

This is a wonderful side dish for any Mexican dinner.Rice is sauteed with salt, cumin and onion, then simmered with tomato sauce and chicken broth.

INGREDIENTS:

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup tomato sauce
2 cups chicken broth

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and add rice. Cook, stirring constantly, until puffed and golden. While rice is cooking, sprinkle with salt and cumin.

Stir in onions and cook until tender. Stir in tomato sauce and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

MEXICAN BEAN SALAD

The dressing is absolutely sensational in this bean salad - so many taste sensations. It begins with oil and vinegar, but then it gets fancy. Let 's see, there 's lemon and lime juice, garlic, cilantro, sugar, cumin, hot sauce and chili powder to taste

INGREDIENTS:

1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 (10 ounce) package frozen corn kernels
1 red onion, chopped
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 clove crushed garlic
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 tablespoon ground cumin
1/2 tablespoon ground black pepper
1 dash hot pepper sauce
1/2 teaspoon chili powder

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, combine beans, bell peppers, frozen corn, and red onion.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, lemon juice, sugar, salt, garlic, cilantro, cumin, and black pepper. Season to taste with hot sauce and chili powder.

Pour olive oil dressing over vegetables; mix well. Chill thoroughly, and serve cold.

THE WINNER IS!

The winner of April's giveaway is Amy from Cottage Prims! Congratulations Amy. Will need your address for shipping.

CORNMEAL CAKE WITH MACERATE BERRIES & APRIL GIVEWAY!

2011-04-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

APRIL’S GIVEAWAY!

I will be drawing names from followers that comment tomorrow.

So today is your last chance to comment!

The April Monthly Giveaway is a

"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"

CORNMEAL CAKE WITH MACERATE BERRIES

The cornmeal gives this summery dessert a rustic, Country-style flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

Cake:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons grated orange rind
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
1/3 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup 2% reduced-fat milk

Berries:

1 cup each strawberries, blueberries and raspberries
1/4 cup sugar, or to taste
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

DIRECTIONS:

To prepare cake: preheat oven to 350F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Combine flour, baking powder and salt.

Combine butter, sugar, orange rind and vanilla in a large bowl; beat with a mixer at medium speed until evenly blended. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Reduce speed to low and add flour mixture and cornmeal alternately with milk, beating just until evenly incorporated. Scrape into prepared pan, spreading evenly.

Bake 30 minutes or until a tester inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack.

To prepare berries, mash berries in a large bowl. Add sugar and orange juice and mix gently. Serve with cake.
Recipe by Jean Kressy.

FREE RETRO FUN VINTAGE STYLE APRON & CITRUS HOLIDAY HOSTESS APRON WITH DREAMY BOW PATTERNS

2011-04-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

RETRO FUN: VINTAGE STYLE APRON

Love, love, love the sweetheart neckline and matching mini-sweet pockets. And the happy bottom flounce will have you skipping around your kitchen, just like when you used to twirl in your big-girl-fancy-party-dress

CITRUS HOLIDAY: HOSTESS APRON WITH DREAMY BOW

The hostess apron is a nod to the more elegant entertaining of days gone by, when a beautiful apron was a critical part of your party ensemble

You are going to love Sew4home. They have free patterns to grab if you want to make these lovely aprons up. Just click here to go there. You will find so many lovely items to make!

Photos from Sew4home.

BLARTER, MEXICAN BLACK BEAN PIZZA & APRIL'S GIVEWAY!

2011-04-25T09:08:00.000-07:00

APRIL’S GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from followers that comment.
The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The April Monthly Giveaway is this

"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"

Each time you comment on a new post will give you another chance to win the
"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"!

BLARTER

This is a blog + barter system.

This explanation, taken from the blog site, details what blarter is...

blarter is an online community of bloggers seeking to exchange handmade goods, craft supplies, vintage items, and creative services through barter. use what you have to get what you want!

perhaps you have a stash of wool yarn and would like to trade it for some cotton quilting fabric. maybe you're seeking some vintage handkerchiefs, and would be willing to trade some handmade stationary. do you have a craft book or patterns you no longer need? trade it for something you do need!

blarter arrangements are set up by participants, and participants are solely responsible for carrying out the arrangement to completion. participants are responsible for any and all costs, such as shipping, incurred through barter arrangements.

blarter hopes to foster positive relationships between participants, but does not guarantee satisfaction.

any questions or comments? email blarter@att.net or clik here to go there.

MEXICAN BLACK BEAN PIZZA

For your vegetarian supper of the week, try this Mexican Black Bean Pizza. Loaded with protein, it has plenty of carbohydrates, and lots of flavor. If your family enjoys hot and spicy pizza, add a little extra pepper sauce. Pass the sour cream-salsa sauce at serving time. And sit back and enjoy this great meal.

INGREDIENTS:

1 10-ounce package refrigerated pizza dough
1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons snipped fresh cilantro or parsley
2 tablespoons salsa
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon bottled hot pepper sauce
2 cloves garlic, quartered
1-1/2 cups shredded Cojack or cheddar cheese (6 ounces)
1/2 cup chopped red sweet pepper
1/4 cup sliced green onion
1/2 cup dairy sour cream
2 tablespoons salsa

DIRECTIONS:

Lightly grease an 11- to 13-inch pizza pan. Unroll pizza dough and transfer to greased pan, pressing dough out with your hands. Build up edges slightly. Prick generously with a fork. Bake in a 425 degree F oven for 7 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Meanwhile, in a blender container or food processor bowl combine black beans, cilantro or parsley, 2 tablespoons salsa, cumin, hot pepper sauce, and garlic. Cover and blend or process until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides if necessary.

Spread bean mixture over hot crust. Sprinkle with Cojack or cheddar cheese, chopped red sweet pepper, and green onion. Bake about 10 minutes more or until cheese melts and pizza is heated through.

In a small bowl combine sour cream and 2 tablespoons salsa. Serve pizza with sour cream mixture. Makes 4 servings

HAPPY EASTER ALL..DO YOU BELIEVE IN EASTER?

2011-04-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

He is not here; He has been raised.” (Lk 24:6)

This is too wonderful not to share........I hope you have a Happy and Blessed Easter!

Edith Burns was a wonderful Christian who lived in San Antonio, Texas. She was the patient of a doctor by the name of Will Phillips. Dr.Phillips was a gentle doctor who saw patients as people. His favorite patient was Edith Burns.

One morning he went to his office with a heavy heart and it was because of Edith Burns..
When he walked into that waiting room, there sat Edith with her big black Bible in her lap earnestly talking to a young mother sitting beside her.

Edith Burns had a habit of introducing herself in this way: "Hello, my name is Edith Burns. Do you believe in Easter?" Then she would explain the meaning of Easter, and many times people would be saved.

Dr. Phillips walked into that office and there he saw the head nurse, Beverly.
Beverly had first met Edith when she was taking her blood pressure Edith began by saying, "My name is Edith Burns. Do you believe in Easter?

Beverly said, "Why yes I do."

Edith said, "Well, what do you believe about Easter?"

Beverly said, "Well, it's all about egg hunts, going to church, and dressing up.." Edith kept pressing her about the real meaning of Easter, and finally led her to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Dr. Phillips said, "Beverly, don't call Edith into the office quite yet. I believe there is another delivery taking place in the waiting room.

After being called back in the doctor's office, Edith sat down and when she took a look at the doctor she said, "Dr. Will, why are you so
sad? Are you reading your Bible? Are you praying?"

Dr. Phillips said gently, "Edith, I'm the doctor and you're the patient." With a heavy heart he said, "Your lab report came back and it says you have cancer, and Edith, you're not going to live very long."

Edith said, "Why Will Phillips, shame on you. Why are you so sad? Do you think God makes mistakes? You have just told me I'm going to seemy precious Lord Jesus, my husband, and my friends. You have just told me that I am going to celebrate Easter forever, and here you are having difficulty giving me my ticket!"

Dr. Phillips thought to himself, "What a magnificent woman this Edith Burns is!"
Edith continued coming to Dr. Phillips. Christmas came and the office was closed through January 3rd. On the day the office opened, Edith did not show up.

Later that afternoon, Edith called Dr. Phillips and said she would have to be moving her story to the hospital and said, "Will, I'm very near home, so would you make sure that they put women in here next to me in my room who need to know about Easter.."

Well, they did just that and women began to come in and share that room with Edith. Many women were saved. Everybody on that floor from staff to patients were so excited about Edith, that they started calling her Edith Easter; that is everyone except Phyllis Cross, the head nurse.

Phyllis made it plain that she wanted nothing to do with Edith because she was a "religious nut". She had been a nurse in an army hospital.
She had seen it all and heard it all. She was the original G.I. Jane. She had been married three times, she was hard, cold, and did
everything by the book.

One morning the two nurses who were to attend to Edith were sick.

Edith had the flu and Phyllis Cross had to go in and give her a shot. When she walked in, Edith had a big smile on her face and said,
"Phyllis, God loves you and I love you, and I have been praying for you."

Phyllis Cross said, "Well, you can quit praying for me, it won't work. I'm not interested."

Edith said, "Well, I will pray and I have asked God not to let me go home until you come into the family."

Phyllis Cross said, "Then you will never die because that will never happen, and curtly walked out of the room.

Every day Phyllis Cross would walk into the room and Edith would say, "God loves you Phyllis and I love you, and I'm praying for you."

One day Phyllis Cross said she was literally drawn to Edith's room like a magnet would draw iron. She sat down on the bed and Edith said, "I'm so glad you have come, because God told me that today is your special day"

Phyllis Cross said, "Edith, you have asked everybody here the question, "Do you believe in Easter but you have never asked me."

Edith said, "Phyllis, I wanted to many times, but God told me to wait until you asked, and now that you have asked." Edith Burns took her
Bible and shared with Phyllis Cross the Easter Story of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Edith said, "Phyllis, do you
believe in Easter? Do you believe that Jesus Christ is alive and that He wants to live in your heart?"

Phyllis Cross said, "Oh I want to believe that with all of my heart, and I do want Jesus in my life "Right there, Phyllis Cross prayed and
invited Jesus Christ into her heart. For the first time Phyllis Cross did not walk out of a hospital room, she was carried out on the wings of angels.

Two days later, Phyllis Cross came in and Edith said, "Do you know what day it is?" Phyllis Cross said, "Why Edith, it's Good Friday."

Edith said, "Oh, no, for you every day is Easter. Happy Easter Phyllis!"

Two days later, on Easter Sunday, Phyllis Cross came into work, did some of her duties and then went down to the flower shop and got some Easter lilies because she wanted to go up to see Edith and give her some Easter lilies and wish her a Happy Easter.

When she walked into Edith's room, Edith was in bed. That big black Bible was on her lap. Her hands were in that Bible. There was a sweet
smile on her face. When Phyllis Cross went to pick up Edith's hand, she realized Edith was dead. Her left hand was on John 14: "In my
Father's house are many mansions. I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you
may be also." Her right hand was on Revelation 21:4, "And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, there shall be no more death nor
sorrow, nor crying; and there shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."

Phyllis Cross took one look at that dead body, and then lifted her face toward heaven, and with tears streaming down here cheeks, said,
"Happy Easter, Edith - Happy Easter!"

Phyllis Cross left Edith's body, walked out of the room, and over to a table where two student nurses were sitting. She said, "My name is
Phyllis Cross.. Do you believe in Easter?"

If you believe in Easter, forward this on. God works in wonderful ways, and to believe in his power is to truly be free. If Jesus had e-mail, he'd do the same for you.
Actually, maybe He just did)

"Father, bless this person in whatever it is that You know he or she may be needing this day"

YOU DO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

2011-04-22T07:38:00.000-07:00

I received this from a friend and thought you would enjoy it!

Who You Are Makes A Difference

A teacher in New York decided to honor each of her seniors in high school by telling them the difference they each made.
Using a process developed by Helice Bridges of Del Mar, California, she called each student to the front of the class, one at a time.
First she told them how the student made a difference to her and the class. Then she presented each of them with a blue ribbon imprinted with gold letters which read, "Who I Am Makes a Difference."
Afterwards the teacher decided to do a class project to see what kind of impact recognition would have on a community.
She gave each of the students three more ribbons and instructed them to go out and spread this acknowledgment ceremony.
Then they were to follow up on the results, see who honored whom and report back to the class in about a week.
One of the boys in the class went to a junior executive in a nearby company and honored him for helping him with his career planning. He gave him a blue ribbon and put it on his shirt.
Then he gave him two extra ribbons, and said, "We're doing a class project on recognition, and we'd like you to go out, find somebody to honor, give them a blue ribbon, then give them the extra blue ribbon so they can acknowledge a third person to keep this acknowledgment ceremony going. Then please report back to me and tell me what happened."
Later that day the junior executive went in to see his boss, who had been noted, by the way, as being kind of a grouchy fellow. He sat his boss down and he told him that he deeply admired him for being a creative genius. The boss seemed very surprised. The junior executive asked him if he would accept the gift of the blue ribbon and would he give him permission to put it on him. His surprised boss said,"Well, sure."
The junior executive took the blue ribbon and placed it right on his boss's jacket above his heart. As he gave him the last extra ribbon, he said,
"Would you do me a favor? Would you take this extra ribbon and pass it on by honoring somebody else? The young boy who first gave me the ribbons is doing a project in school and we want to keep this recognition ceremony going and find out how it affects people."
That night the boss came home to his 14-year-old son and sat him down. He said, "The most incredible thing happened to me today. I was in my office and one of the junior executives came in and told me he admired me and gave me a blue ribbon for being a creative genius. Imagine. He thinks I'm a creative genius."
Then he put this blue ribbon that says "Who I Am Makes A Difference" on my jacket above my heart. He gave me an extra ribbon and asked me to find somebody else to honor.
As I was driving home tonight, I started thinking about whom I would honor with this ribbon and I thought about you. I want to honor you.
"My days are really hectic and when I come home I don't pay a lot of attention to you. Sometimes I scream at you for not getting good enough grades in school and for your bedroom being a mess, but somehow tonight, I just wanted to sit here and, well, just let you know that you do make a difference to me.
Besides your mother, you are the most important person in my life. You're a great kid and I love you!"
The startled boy started to sob and sob, and he couldn't stop crying. His whole body shook.
He looked up at his father and said through his tears, "I was planning on committing suicide tomorrow, Dad, because I didn't think you loved me. Now I don't need to."

Who you are does make a difference & I wanted my followers to know that! I am passing the blue ribbon to you. Have an awesome day, and know that someone has thought about you today..

BLUEBERRY CREAM CHEESE SQUARES!

2011-04-18T06:26:00.000-07:00

APRIL’S GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from followers that comment on the 1st of each month! .

The April Monthly Giveaway is this

"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"

Each time you comment on a new post will give you another chance to win the

"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"!

BLUEBERRY CREAM CHEESE SQUARES

This delectable dessert is the perfect summer treat, NO baking required.

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 c. cornstarch

1/2 c. sugar

1/2 c. water

3 c. blueberries, rinsed and drained

1 (13 1/2 oz.) pkg. graham cracker crumbs

3/4 c. melted butter 2 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese

1 1/2 c. sugar 2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 (9 oz.) pkg. frozen whipped topping, thawed

DIRECTIONS:

Combine cornstarch, sugar, water and blueberries in saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened; cool. Combine cracker crumbs into bottom of foil-lined 13 x 9 x 2 inch pan. Mash cream cheese until soft; beat in sugar and vanilla gradually. Fold in whipped topping; drop by spoonfuls over crumb mixture. Spread gently with spatula. Spread blueberry filling evenly over cheese mixture; spread with remaining cheese mixture. Sprinkle with remaining crumb mixture; chill overnight. Use foil to remove dessert from pan. Place dessert on platter;cut into squares.

VIOLET OR DANDELION JELLY & LAVENDER SUGAR!

2011-04-14T07:17:00.000-07:00

SPRING! SPRING! SPRING!

Hopefully is finally here. Our Farmer’s Seed & Nursery bare root room is open and Donahue’s Garden Center is opening today! That means the Dandelions & Wild Violets will be sprouting soon. So hop on over to Parkers General Blog and grab the recipes for

VIOLET JELLY

DANDELION JELLY

And this one looked interesting

RED PEPPER JAM

Just click here to go there

LAVENDER SUGAR WITH VANILLA

This is wonderful just to open and sniff! Make four jars one with lavender and sugar put into a vita mix to make into lavender powdered sugar(Which is nice if you don't want lavender buds in your baking. Or to add to a cup of comforting tea), then jar two with lavender and the fourth put in a vanilla bean. Can be used in cake or cookie mixes, a cup of tea, in a frosting or glaze, salad dressing or just take a sniff every now and again! A great way to make the summer stay a little longer! You can also make the lavender jelly with it! Makes a great gift.

INGREDIENTS:

4 cups sugar
4 tablespoons fresh lavender flowers
1 vanilla bean (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Place a cup of sugar in each (1 cup) jar along with 1 tablespoon lavender and divide the vanilla bean among some or all the jars. Let sit overnight.

PRAIRIE COVERED WAGON SAWDUST PILLOW STACK.

This is one of my new items listed in The Prim Nest

I just found a darling pattern for a Pin Keep. It is listed in an Etsy shop. Click here to go there if you are interested in buying a pattern.

PINEAPPLE BLUEBERRY CRUNCH CAKE & PRAIRIE CHURCH DOLLS ROLL

2011-04-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

APRIL’S GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway and will be drawing names from followers that comment.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The April Monthly Giveaway is this

"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"

Each time you comment on a new post will give you another chance to win the

"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"!

PINEAPPLE BLUEBERRY CRUNCH CAKE

This recipe actually takes only 5 minutes to make and it is delicious! I served mine with Cool Whip!
We called this a Dump Cake, but used Cherry Pie Filling. Try it using Peach Pie Filling or half Blueberry and half Cherry OMG that is good.

INGREDIENTS:
3/4 cup butter, plus more for dish
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, in juice
1 (20-ounce) can blueberry pie filling
1 (18.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix
1 cup chopped pecans

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 13 by 9-inch casserole dish. Melt 3/4 cup butter in saucepan over low heat. Pour the pineapple with juice into the casserole dish and evenly spread blueberry pie filling on top. Cover with dry yellow cake mix and top with pecans. Drizzle with meltedbutter and bake for 35 to 45 minutes.
Recipe from Paula Dean

ANGEL LUSH, STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE & MAKE YOUR OWN PAPER!

2011-04-11T06:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know what is happening to my posting on my blog, but this is what I have been getting, so this is the reason I haven't been posting. Any one know what is wrong????? If so please let me know.

I like trying new crafts, but am not always able to invest in all the supplies....so this is a groovy way to make paper with stuff you probably have on hand (or can acquire for next to nothing! If this is the first time you are making paper, don't be afraid to experiment with different fibers, you don't have to stick with paper related products. Add whole flower heads to the pulp mixture after it has been through the blender. You can add scraps of yarn, tin foil, even seeds. Its all comes down to what you want. Experiment with different textures and colors after all Ts'ai Lun did! Remember, some of your ideas will turn out while others may not. Have fun with it, express your creativity.. Instructions

Things You’ll Need: Gather supplies: blender white glue water panty hose wire hanger sink and of course paper... Many types of paper that can be used include: Computer Paper (unprinted) Newspaper (If you want a grayish colored paper) Magazines Egg Cartons Old Cards (For heavier paper) Toilet Paper Paper Bags Non Waxed Boxes (Pre-soak in warm water) Office Paper Tissue Paper (For finer paper) Typing Paper Napkins Construction Paper Step1 Create the drying screen before you begin. You can create a drying screen by shaping the wire hanger into a square or rectangle. Stretch the panty hose over the wire being careful not to snag them. You will need a screen for each piece of homemade paper you plan to make. Step2 Tear up your old paper. I shred it with a paper shredder. What I don't use to make new paper is used for garden mulch. You can also tear the paper into 2 inch, or smaller, squares. Step3 Add water and blend. Place your paper in the blender. Cover it with water. Allow it to sit and soak up some of the water. Add more water to keep the water level about an inch above the top of the paper. Adding enough water is important to keep from over working your blender! Run the blender on low speed. Once you have grey liquid, blend a few more minutes. When you are finished, the original paper should be completely broken down. Step4 If you want colored paper, add a few drops of food coloring. Blend until the color is distributed evenly. I enjoy the natural off-white color of the paper with small specks of color from any colored paper in the mix. You can also get creative in this step and add natural elements such as sticks, shells, or flowers. Step5 Give your blended pulp a glue bath. Fill your sink with 4 inches of water. Add 2 tablespoons of glue to the water. Dump the contents of your blender into the sink full of glue water. Use your hands to mix it up. Make sure it is mixed well. Step6 Strain your homemade paper. Place your screen at the bottom of the sink. Wait a few seconds and then very slowly begin lifting the screen. You should lift as slowly as possible, taking at least 30 seconds to lift it from the water. Step7 Dry your new paper. Take your screen outside and dry it in the sun. It should be completely dry before you try to remove the paper. Very gently pull the paper off. To speed dry your homemade paper, you can try putting it in the oven on a very low heat setting. Just be careful not to set the oven temperature too high. You would not want to catch your homemade paper on fire! Step8 Iron your new paper (optional). You can iron the homemade paper if you wish. This will remove the wrinkles. If you do this, be careful not to scorch it with the iron. Step9 Make something pretty from your homemade paper. You can make special notes, cards, use it in scrapbooks or other paper crafts, or make a book cover out of it. NOTES: It's fun to add bits of thread and flowers and seeds, etc While your paper is drying you could lay it over an overturned bowl and it will dry into a bowl shape...

Strawberry Shortcake:

Super easy and very good 1 cup milk, divided ¼ cup sour crème 3 tbsp. sugar 2 ¼ cups dry all-purpose baking mix for biscuits (I used Bisquick) 1 pkg. (4-serving size) instant vanilla pudding and pie filling mix 1 tub (8 oz.) whipped topping (Cool Whip) 4 cups sliced strawberries 1/3 cup sugar Preheat oven to 425F. Mix ½ cup milk, sour crème and 3 tbsp sugar in large bowl with wire whisk. Stir in baking mix until blended. Spread evenly into greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Remove and let cool completely on wire rack. Meanwhile, combine dry pudding mix and remaining ½ cup milk; blend well. Gently stir in half of whipped topping until well blended. In a separate bowl mix strawberries and 1/3 cup sugar; set aside. Slice cake in half horizontally to make two layers. Place bottom of cake on serving plate. Spread pudding mixture evenly over bottom layer (saving a large spoonful of pudding mix); evenly layer half of strawberries on pudding layer; put leftover large spoonful of pudding mixture in center of strawberry layer; place top cake layer on top, press down gently. Spread top with remaining whipped topping and top with remaining strawberries...

Angel Lush with Pineapple:

This is the perfect dessert for when you just want something light. The hardest part was cutting the angel food cake! This is super easy to prepare but looks and tastes great! I hope you enjoy. Ingridents: 1 can (20 oz.) DOLE® Crushed Pineapple, undrained 1 pkg. (4 serving size) JELL-O® Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding & Pie Filling 1 cup thawed COOL WHIP® Whipped Topping 1 pkg. (10 oz.) prepared round angel food cake Seasonal Berries Directions: Mix pineapple and dry pudding mix in medium bowl. Gently stir in whipped topping. Let stand 5 minutes. Cut cake horizontally into 3 layers. Place bottom cake layer, cut side up, on serving plate. Spread 1-1/3 cups of the pudding mixture onto cake layer; cover with middle cake layer. Spread 1 cup pudding mixture onto middle cake layer; top with remaining cake layer. Spread with remaining pudding mixture. Refrigerate at least 1 hour or until ready to serve. Garnish with your favorite seasonal berries. Store leftover dessert in refrigerator. Great Substitute: Prepare as directed, using JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Fat Free Sugar Free Instant Reduced Calorie Pudding & Pie Filling and COOL WHIP LITE Whipped Topping. How To Cut the Angel Food Cake: Use a serrated knife and gentle sawing motion to easily cut the angel food cake.

TURKEY BACON & HASH BROWN BAKE & SILVERWARE LAMP SHADE!

2011-04-05T05:44:00.000-07:00

TURKEY BACON & HASH BROWN BAKE

Eggs, turkey bacon, hash browns and cheese make a simple, but impressive dish for a weekend family brunch. Made this Sunday, but used regular thick sliced bacon. The thick sliced bacon nowadays is what regular sliced was a few years ago.

INGREDIENTS:

4 Cup(s) Ore Ida Country Style Hash Browns

1/2 Package (12 oz.) BUTTERBALL® TURKEY BACON or about 12 slices, cut into 1/2-in. pieces

1/4 Cup(s) VEGETABLE OIL

1 Package (10 oz.) FROZEN CHOPPED BROCCOLI or about 2 cups, thawed*

1 Cup(s) CHOPPED ONION

1 Cup(s) CHOPPED RED BELL PEPPER

8 EGGS

1 Cup(s) CANNED FAT FREE EVAPORATED MILK

1/2 Teaspoon(s) SALT

1 1/2 Cup(s) SHREDDED SHARP CHEDDAR CHEESE

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat 13x9 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon for 4 to 6 minutes, or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.

Meanwhile, heat oil in another large skillet over medium high heat. Cook Hash Browns for 2 minutes, turn over and cook for another 2 minutes, or until lightly browned. Add broccoli, onion and pepper, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer evenly into baking dish. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk and salt, and stir in cheese and cooked bacon. Pour evenly over potato mixture. Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until eggs are set. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, substitute chopped broccoli with fresh asparagus, cut into 1-in. pieces.

Recipe from Ore Ida

SILVERWARE LAMPSHADE

Isn’t this silverware lamp shade neat? I am going to make a smaller version to hang on my porch and maybe one to hang in my walnut tree. If you are interested in making yourself one than click here to find the tutorial.

PRESERVED LEMONS, LEMON PEPPER SEASONING MIX, GRILLED LEMON CHICKEN & APRIL'S GIVEAWAY!

2011-04-04T05:29:00.000-07:00

APRIL’S GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from followers that comment.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The April Monthly Giveaway is this

"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"

Each time you comment on a new post will give you another chance to win the "Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"!

Lemons/Limes are on sale 4 for a $1. What a good buy, but what to do with them all. It isn’t a good buy if you end up throwing some of them out. Well here is the answer to that problem!

PRESERVED LEMONS OR LIMES

INGREDIENTS

2 to 3 lemons or limes

2 tablespoons kosher salt

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. Cut the lemons into sixths, lengthwise, sprinkle with the salt and place in a non-corrosive dish (glass is good). Cover the lemons with water and cook in the oven for 3 hours. Allow to cool and then refrigerate. Cook's Note: The lemons can be refrigerated for up to 6 months as long as they are covered and stored in a glass canning jar. HOMEMADE LEMON PEPPER SEASONING MIX

Lemon pepper adds a piquant flavor when used on grilled meats. Commercial lemon-pepper seasoning, available in the spice section of most markets, is enormously popular as a seasoning for chicken and other foods. You can easily make it at home yourself, and the result will taste much bolder and fresher.

INGREDIENTS:

1 fresh lemon

2 tsp. whole black peppercorns

THINGS YOU WILL NEED:

Baking Sheets

Coffee Grinders

Cutting Boards

Wooden Spoon

Zesters

DIRECTIONS:

Remove the zest from the lemon carefully, using a zesting tool or a vegetable peeler. Remove only the yellow zest and none of the white pith. Mince the zest and place it in a small bowl. Place the peppercorns on a cutting board and crack them by pressing on them with the clean bottom of a heavy pot, or whirl very briefly in a spice grinder - you want them in large pieces. Add the cracked pepper to the zest. Don't forget this key step: Use a wooden spoon or other sturdy tool to mash the cracked pepper and zest together. This helps release the citrus oils in the zest and combine them with the pepper. Spread the zest and pepper on a small baking sheet or piece of foil and place in the oven. If it's a gas oven, leave it in the oven overnight and the pilot light will dry the mixture out. If it's an electric oven, set it to 200 degrees F or so. Pulverize the mixture the next day in a spice grinder or clean coffee grinder. You can also mince it by hand with a knife. It's now ready to sprinkle on chicken, fish and other foods before cooking.

GRILLED LEMON CHICKEN

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons Lemon Pepper Seasoning Mix

6 chicken cutlets

DIRECTIONS:

Heat the broiler or grill.

In a low, flat dish stir together the lemon juice, oil and Lemon Pepper Seasoning Mix. Add the chicken breasts, and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes. Grill over hot coals or broil for 4 minutes on each side, or until done. Serve hot or at room temperature.

BUNNY CREAM PUFFS & APRIL GIVEAWAY!

2011-04-02T08:14:00.000-07:00

APRIL’S GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from followers that comment.

The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The April Monthly Giveaway is this

"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win the

"Primitive Prairie Church Dolls Roll"!

BUNNY CREAM PUFFS

These delightful cream puff bunnies will make young and old smile. They taste great too!

INGREDIENTS:

Cream Puffs

1 cup water

1/2 cup butter

1 cup all-purpose flour

4 eggs

Filling

1 (3.3-ounce) package white chocolate instant pudding and pie filling mix

1 1/4 cups cold milk

1 cup whipping cream, whipped

Decorations

Large marshmallows

Decorator sugar Toothpicks

Vanilla-flavored candy-coating (almond bark), melted

Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

Black string licorice, cut into thin 3/4-inch strips

Small round pink candies, such as mini candy-covered chocolate pieces

Powdered sugar, if desired

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 400°F. Combine water and butter in 2-quart saucepan. Cook over medium heat until mixture comes to a full boil (4 to 7 minutes). Reduce heat to low; stir in flour vigorously until mixture leaves sides of pan and forms a ball. Remove from heat. Beat in 1 egg at a time until mixture is smooth.

Drop dough by 1/4 cupfuls, 3 inches apart, onto ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Pierce each puff gently with fork to allow steam to escape. Cool completely. Prepare pudding mix, using 1 1/4 cups milk, as directed on package. After pudding is set, gently stir in whipped cream. Cover; refrigerate until serving time.

To create bunnies, cut off cream puff tops. Cut large marshmallows crosswise into 3 pieces. Dip cut-sides into decorator sugar for ears. Using toothpicks, attach sugared marshmallows into top of cream puff for ears. Use melted candy coating to attach chocolate chips for eyes. Just before serving, fill bottom half of cream puff with 1/3 cup filling. Press licorice strips for whiskers and pink candies for nose into filling. Place decorated cream puff top over filling. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

BLUEBERRY PEACH COBBLER & THE WINNER IS!

2011-04-01T06:13:00.000-07:00

Drum Roll please…..The winner of March’s Giveaway, “The Pin Keep Mouse”

Is.....LINDA ★ PARKER'S PARADISE! Tomorrow, I will announce APRIL’S GIVEAWAY! Be sure to check back to find out WHAT it is! Comments on this post count for APRIL!’S GIVEAWAY!

BLUEBERRY PEACH COBBLER I made this for supper last night and this cobbler is so easy to make. It was FABULOUS! Everyone thought I had worked all day making it. Just put a little flour on your face and hands and they will never know the difference. INGREDIENTS: 1 prepared pie crust sheet 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 pounds fresh or frozen peaches, peeled, pitted, and coarsely chopped 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 teaspoon lemon juice 2 cups fresh blueberries 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash Sugar cubes, crushed for dusting Vanilla ice cream, for serving DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Roll pastry to fit a 2-quart oval baking dish In a medium saucepan, combine the peaches with the sugar, water, cornstarch, and lemon juice and let sit for 15 minutes. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens and peaches have softened, about 7 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, blueberries, and vanilla extract. Pour into the baking dish and cover with pastry. Using a fork, cut off excess dough and create a decorative edge by pressing tines along edge of pan and pushing down. With a paring knife, cut 3 slices on top of the pastry to vent. Brush on egg wash and dust with sugar. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly and thick around the edges. Cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with ice cream

30 + FREE PINCUSHION PATTERNS & MARCH"S GIVEAWAY!

2011-03-31T09:01:00.000-07:00

Remember today is the last day to enter to win the MOUSE PIN KEEP!

I will be announcing the winner of the MOUSE PINKEEP tomorrow, APRIL 1st.

You’ll find over 30 tutorials listed and because there are so many pincushion patterns, they have been organized into groups & into separate project sheets so things are tidy (all free). If you would like to get the tutorials for making these and many more types of Pin Cushions then click on TipNut

PEAR PINCUSHION

CARROT PINCUSHION

FLOWER PINCUSHION

MOUSE PINCUSHION

TEACUP PINCUSHION

BUFFALO BLUE CHEESE CHICKEN PANIN, CHICKEN PARMESAN BURGERS & MARCH'S GIVEAWAY!

2011-03-29T04:59:00.000-07:00

MARCH GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month! .

The March Monthly Giveaway is this adorable Mouse Pin Keep

Each time you comment on a new post gives you another chance to win the Mouse Pin Keep

BUFFALO BLUE CHEESE CHICKEN PANIN

"Like chicken wings? Then you'll love this spicy sandwich made with chicken, paprika, chili powder, hot sauce and Marzetti® Chunky Blue Cheese Dressing."

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup Marzetti® Chunky Blue Cheese Dressing, plus extra for dipping

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, thinly sliced*

2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for grilling bread

3 tablespoons favorite hot sauce

1 tablespoon butter, melted

8 slices (medium thickness) favorite bread

Sliced red onion

DIRECTIONS:

In a shallow bowl combine flour, paprika, chili powder and salt. Coat chicken with flour mixture. Heat oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat and cook chicken on each side until it is fully cooked, about 10 minutes. Remove from pan. In a small bowl, combine hot sauce and butter. Brush each piece of chicken with hot sauce mixture. Allow chicken to cool slightly.

Preheat a sandwich grill or panini press. Arrange bread slices on a work surface and spread each slice with 1 tablespoon Marzetti® Chunky Blue Cheese Dressing. Layer cooked chicken and onions on four slices. Cover chicken with remaining four slices of bread, dressing side down. Brush top and bottom of bread with olive oil and place panini in grill or press and cover. Cook until bread is toasted, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from grill and cut each sandwich in half. Serve sandwiches and celery sticks with extra Marzetti® Chunky Blue Cheese Dressing.

By: Marzetti®

CHICKEN PARMESAN BURGERS

INGREDIENTS:

10 1/2-inch-thick slices French bread (4 inches in diameter);

8 slices toasted, 2 slices (crust removed) diced

1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

4 tablespoons minced fresh basil, divided, plus 12 large basil leaves

3/4 cup purchased refrigerated marinara sauce

12 ounces ground chicken (white meat)

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1 tablespoon grated onion

1/4 teaspoon salt

4 ounces whole-milk mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced

4 large radicchio leaves

DIRECTIONS:

Blend diced bread and Parmesan in processor to fine crumbs. Transfer to pie dish; mix in 2 tablespoons minced basil. Mix marinara and 2 tablespoons basil in small saucepan. Transfer 1 1/2 tablespoons sauce to large bowl. Add chicken, 1/2 tablespoon oil, onion, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Sprinkle with pepper; blend. Shape into four 1/2-inch-thick patties; coat with crumbs. Heat sauce over low heat. Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Cook patties until bottoms are crusty, 4 minutes. Turn patties over; top with cheese. Cook 3 minutes.

Cover; cook until cooked through and cheese is melted, about 1 minute. Assemble burgers with bread, radicchio, basil leaves, and war marinara.

GREEK STYLE SKILLET SUPPER, TACO CASSEROLE & CARAMEL BANANA TIRAMISU!

2011-03-25T06:34:00.000-07:00

GREEK STYLE SKILLET SUPPER

For a taste of Greece, this one-dish complete meal is sure to be a hit. Feta cheese accents the authentic flavor.

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 teaspoons Oregano Leaves
1 teaspoon Cinnamon, Ground
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) reduced sodium beef broth
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 1/2 cups uncooked penne pasta
1 1/2 cups frozen leaf spinach or cut green beans, thawed
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, divided

Cook ground beef and onion in large skillet on medium-high heat until beef is no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain fat. Add oregano, cinnamon and garlic powder; mix well.

Stir in broth, tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to boil. Stir in pasta. Reduce heat to medium; cover and cook 10 minutes or until pasta is nearly tender. Stir in spinach and 1/2 cup of the feta cheese. Cover. Cook 5 minutes longer or until pasta is tender.

Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup feta cheese. Cover. Let stand 5 minutes.

TACO CASSEROLE

A quick and easy one-dish version of "Taco Night". All of the great flavor of tacos in one delicious dish.

1 1/2 pounds ground beef or ground turkey
1 package taco seasoning mix or use the homemade seasoning mix
1 can (16 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (11 ounces) Mexican-style corn or whole kernel corn, drained
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup coarsely crushed tortilla chips
Assorted toppings, such as sour cream, sliced green onions, shredded lettuce and chopped tomatoes (optional)

Preheat oven to 400°F. Brown meat in large skillet on medium-high heat. Drain fat.

Stir in Seasoning Mix, beans, tomato sauce and corn. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 5 minutes. Spoon into 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and tortilla chips.

Bake 5 to 10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve with assorted toppings, if desired.
Recipes from McCormick

CARAMEL BANANA TIRAMISU

The classic Italian dessert with a caramel apple twist.
This is a great dessert to take to a potluck-everyone loves it!! No leftovers!!

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/3 cups Caramel Dip
1/4 cup Caramel Dip
One 3.4 oz package instant banana pudding mix
1 cup Cold milk
1/2 cup Sour cream
2 cups Whipped topping
30 CrispyLadyfinger cookies
1 cup Orange Juice
2 Large ripe bananas, peeled and sliced

TOPPING

1 1/2 cups Whipped topping
Ground cinnamon

DIRECTIONS:

Combine pudding mix and cold milk in a medium bowl and whisk to thicken. Add 1/3 cup Caramel Apple Dip and sour cream and whisk to combine. Fold in whipped topping. Dip 15 ladyfingers in orange juice and arrange one layer of soaked fingers in a 9" x 11" dish. Spread 1/2 cup Caramel Apple Dip on top of ladyfingers. Spoon half of cream mixture over caramel and spread into an even layer; top with half of banana slices. Repeat process with remaining ingredients. For topping, spread whipped topping over all, drizzle with Caramel Apple Dip and sprinkle with cinnamon.
Recipe from Marzetti

MARY HAD A LITTLE LAMB!

2011-03-24T08:06:00.000-07:00

This was sent to me by a friend. The author is unknown.
I think it is true and carries a very clear message.
it is worth sharing with you!

“Mary had a Little Lamb
His fleece was white as snow.
And everywhere Mary went,
The Lamb was sure to go.
He followed her to school each day,
Wasn’t even in the rule.
He made the children laugh and play,
To have a Lamb at school.
And then the rules, all changed one day,
Illegal it became,
To bring the Lamb of God to school..
Or even speak his name.
Every day got worse and worse,
And days turned into years.
Instead of hearing children laugh.
We heard gun shots, and tears.
What must we do to stop the crime,
That’s in our schools today?
Lets let the Lamb come back to school,
And teach our kids to pray!

SESAME SEARED TUNA, GINGER SOY DIPPING SAUCE & CUCUMBER SALAD!

2011-03-23T12:07:00.000-07:00

I had this for supper last night with some steamed rice. It was so good. Wonderful meal anytime but especially during lent!

SESAME SEARED TUNA

"Easy, great tasting tuna coated with sesame seeds, and quickly seared. This tuna is served rare, so be sure to use a good quality fresh tuna."

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon mirin (Japanese sweet wine)
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
4 (6 ounce) tuna steaks
1/2 cup sesame seeds
wasabi paste
1 tablespoon olive oil

DIRECTIONS:

In a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, mirin, honey and sesame oil. Divide into two equal parts. Stir the rice vinegar into one part and set aside as a dipping sauce.

Spread the sesame seeds out on a plate. Coat the tuna steaks with the remaining soy sauce mixture, then press into the sesame seeds to coat.

Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Place steaks in the pan, and sear for about 30 seconds on each side. Serve with the dipping sauce and wasabi paste.

GINGER SOY DIPPING SAUCE

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 Cup Soy Sauce
1/4 Cup Rice Vinegar
1/4 Cup Water
2 Tsp. Sugar
2 Tsp. Fresh Ginger, peeled and grated
1/2 Tsp. Crushed Hot Red Pepper Flakes, or to taste
2 Tsp. Asian Sesame Oil
2 Green Onions, sliced thin
2 Tab. Fresh Cilantro, chopped

DIRECTIONS:

Combine all ingredients, with the exception of the onions and cilantro in a small bowl, whisking to incorporate. Stir in sliced green onions and chopped cilantro

CUCUMBER SALAD

"This sweet and tangy summer salad of cucumber and peanuts with just a hint of heat is always a hit at picnics and potlucks since it doesn't need to be refrigerated and you're pretty much guaranteed to be the only one bringing this dish!"

INGREDIENTS:

1English Cucumber
1/4 Cup Seasoned Rice Vinegar
1 Fresh Serrano Chili Pepper, seeded and minced, or to taste
½ cup chopped cilantro, coarsely chopped
2 Tab. Chopped Salted Peanuts

DIRECTIONS:

Peel and halve cucumber lengthwise. Using a small spoon, remove seeds. Cut cucumber into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. Toss the cucumbers and 1 teaspoon of salt together in a colander and set colander over a bowl. Drain like this for at least one hour. (You can also weigh cucumbers down with a ziplock bag of cool water placed on top of the cucumbers in the colander to achieve a better drain.) Mix the cucumber with the remaining ingredients and salt and pepper to taste.

You can adjust the heat of this salad with the amount of peppers used. You can also add a little sugar or a half cup of thinly sliced red onion.

STRAWBERRY BANANA CHOCOLATE CRUMBLE & MARCH GIVEAWAY!

2011-03-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

MARCH GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from
followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month!
.
The March Monthly Giveaway is this adorable Mouse Pin Keep

Each time you comment on a new post gives you another chance to win the Mouse Pin Keep

STRAWBERRY BANANA CHOCOLATE CRUMBLE

Fruity chocolaty goodness

INGREDIENTS:

16 – 20 strawberries, hulled, in chunks if large
2 bananas, in chunks
2 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, diced small
2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped roughly
Pinch salt

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375F.
Divide fruit among four one-cup ramekins and toss gently.
In a small bowl, mix the remaining ingredients with a fork or your fingers until coarsely crumbly. Spoon mixture onto the fruit, letting it slip into the cracks. Bake for 25 – 30 minutes or until golden and bubbly
Recipe from Kitchen Parade

JELLYBEAN TOPIARY & BLUEBERRY CRUMB CAKE!

2011-03-18T06:53:00.000-07:00

JELLYBEAN TOPIARY

How cute are these? This is sooooo easy to do and you have a cute fun spring/easter craft

Start by painting one 4 inch and two 3 inch Styrofoam balls pink.

Then use a lot of pastel JELLY BEANS….is 5 bags a lot? You can do it with 4 but you needed more yellow and purple jelly beans. No worries though....they are only....one dollar per bag.

Start at the top of the ball and working in a circle around it, hot glue the Jelly Beans to the ball. Glue a dowel in the middle of the ball...they have a hole nice and ready for you!

Put it in little buckets that you will find in the dollar section of Target/Walmart. Put green foam in the bucket and that way they stand up really nicely.

Put moss on top to hide the green foam...bow around the dowel...and you have a Jellybean Topiary.

What fun! The candy is so cheap to craft with! I need to stop crafting with Easter candy. I glue one on....then eat one....glue one on...then eat one!

If you like these Jelly Bean Topiary which came from My Garden Of Eden then check out her blog with many more interesting ideas. Just click here on Garden of Eden to go there.

BLUEBERRY CRUMB CAKE

INGREDIENTS:

For the streusel:
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 pound (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour

For the cake:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature (3/4 stick)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 extra-large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
2/3 cup sour cream
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup fresh blueberries
Confectioners' sugar for sprinkling

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter and flour a 9-inch round baking pan.

For the streusel:
Combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Stir in the melted butter and then the flour. Mix well and set aside.

For the cake:
Cream the butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on high speed for 4 to 5 minutes, until light. Reduce the speed to low and add the eggs 1 at a time, then add the vanilla, lemon zest, and sour cream. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture to the batter until just combined. Fold in the blueberries and stir with a spatula to be sure the batter is completely mixed.
Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out with a knife. With your fingers,
crumble the topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until a cake tester comes out clean. Cool completely and serve sprinkled with confectioners' sugar.

HAPPY ST.PATRICK`S DAY, CORN BEEF AND CABBAGE & HORSERADISH CREAM SAUCE

2011-03-17T08:06:00.000-07:00

HAPPY ST.PATRICK`S DAY !!!!!!

An Irish Man sitting in the pub with his wife and he says, "I love you."
She asks, "Is that you or the beer talking?"

He replies, "It's me talking to the beer."

CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE

What's more Irish than a traditional recipe for corned beef and cabbage? Serve with mustard or horseradish if desired."

INGREDIENTS:

3 pounds corned beef brisket with spice packet
10 small red potatoes
5 carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces
1 large head cabbage, cut into small wedges

DIRECTIONS:

Place corned beef in large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Add the spice packet that came with the corned beef. Cover pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer approximately 50 minutes per pound or until tender.
Add whole potatoes and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are almost tender. Add cabbage and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove meat and let rest 15 minutes.
Place vegetables in a bowl and cover. Add as much broth (cooking liquid reserved in the Dutch oven or large pot) as you want. Slice meat across the grain.

HORSERADISH CREAM SAUCE

I have made this every year for St. Patrick's Day. It goes great with Corned Beef and Cabbage and works well on steak sandwiches too.

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup prepared horseradish
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3/4 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
1 pinch white sugar, or to taste
salt and black pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Stir the mayonnaise, horseradish, and Dijon mustard in a bowl until evenly combined. Fold in the whipped cream, then season to taste with sugar, salt, and pepper.

DIRTY PEARS & COLA PORK CHOPS

2011-03-16T08:30:00.000-07:00

DIRTY PEARS OR APPLES:

2 Cups ground cinnamon
1/2 Cup ground nutmeg or cloves
2 Cups applesauce
Whole cloves
Small thin twigs
Mix spices and apple sauce well. It will form a stiff dough. Add more spices if needed to make firm...Shape dough into pear or apple shapes. For pears just add a stem; for apples add clove on the bottom and a short stem..Let air dry on cookie pans/sheets that are covered with foil then wax paper...The foil keeps the bottoms from turning black...until hard (up to 5 days)or bake on waxed paper lined cookie pan/sheet at 150%....Allow to cook overnight...I prefer the air drying...Note during the drying process dough may start to show small cracks. This is normal..
To wax dip the dirty pears/apples you melt beeswax adding essential cinnamon oil and spices....stir well when melted, then dip the fruit using a slotted metal spoon (pick one up at thrift shop or garage sale)...Allow to dry on the wax paper and dust with more spices...Remember to be careful melting the wax...never do it over direct heat....Make your self a melting pot....Take an old large can, put it in a pot with water and simmer till the wax melts....Use a large can that tomatoes come in or a pound coffee can....

COLA PORK CHOPS:

This is a tried and true recipe for pork chops, but it works great using chicken too. With chicken, cooking time is more like 40 minutes for thick breasts."
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup ketchup
1 cup cola-flavored carbonated beverage
2 tablespoons brown sugar
salt and pepper to tast
8 pork chops
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Mix together the ketchup, cola and brown sugar.
Place pork chops into a baking pan and pour cola mixture over, coating well. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Bake for about one hour depending on the thickness of the pork chop.

THE PRIM NEST, PRAIRIE SETTLERS DOLLS & CHURCH DOLLS ROLL!

2011-03-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

Come join The Prim Nest for the NEW releases! I are excited to show you all the wonderful offerings and hope you enjoy shopping with us!

My NEW offerings

CHURCH DOLLS ROLL

PRAIRIE SETTLERS DOLLS

CELEBRATE ALL THE WAYS TO LOVE LASAGNA & MARCH GIVEAWAY!

2011-03-14T09:55:00.000-07:00

Each time you comment on a new post gives you another chance to win the Mouse Pin Keep

CELEBRATE ALL THE WAYS TO LOVE LASAGNA

From classic Neapolitan Style Lasagna and Seafood Lasagna with Pesto and Roasted Peppers, to Chocolate Pistachio Cannoli Lasagna — this is a mouthwatering collection no lasagna lover should be without! Order your FREE limited edition cookbook today. Just click LOVE to sign up for it.

MEATBALL LASAGNA (NEAPOLITAN STYLE)

INGREDIENTS:

16 oz. Sorrento® Mozzarella
2/3 cup Parmesan, grated
1 Egg
3/4 lb. Ground Beef
4 cups Tomato Sauce
12 Lasagna Noodles
1/2 lb. Raw Italian Sausage, casing removed
5 Eggs, hard boiled, peeled, sliced

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Cook lasagna according to package directions. Reserve.

Make meatballs by mixing the Parmesan, uncooked egg, and ground beef along with salt and pepper. Form into ¾-inch balls. Cook on sheet in oven until browned. Reserve.
To assemble, spray a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1 cup of sauce on bottom and top with 4 of the lasagna sheets to cover bottom of dish.

Layer with ½ the meatballs, the sausage, and ½ the sliced eggs. Top with 1½ cups sauce.

Top with 1 more layer of lasagna noodles, the rest of the sausage, egg, and meatballs. Top with 1 cup of sauce.

Top with last layer of 4 noodles, 1 cup of sauce, and the mozzarella.
Cover with parchment and then aluminum foil. Bake for 40 minutes until slightly bubbling, Remove foil and parchment and continue to bake until top is browned, about 10 minutes more. Cool 15 minutes before serving to allow lasagna to set up.

"HAVE A HAPPY PERIOD"

2011-03-11T07:13:00.000-08:00

Hope you get a chuckle from this!

Dear Mr. Thatcher,

I have been a loyal user of your 'Always' maxi pads for over 20 years and I appreciate many of their features. Why, without the LeakGuard Core or Dri-Weave absorbency, I'd probably never go horseback riding or salsa dancing, and I'd certainly steer clear of running up and down the beach in tight, white shorts. But my favorite feature has to be your revolutionary Flexi-Wings. Kudos on being the only company smart enough to realize how crucial it is that maxi pads be aerodynamic. I can't tell you how safe and secure I feel each month knowing there's a little F-16 in my pants.

Have you ever had a menstrual period, Mr. Thatcher? Ever suffered from the curse'? I'm guessing you haven't. Well, my time of the month is starting right now. As I type, I can already feel hormonal forces violently surging through my body. Just a few minutes from now, my body will adjust and I'll be transformed into what my husband likes to call 'an inbred hillbilly with knife skills.' Isn't the human body amazing?

As Brand Manager in the Feminine-Hygiene Division, you've no doubt seen quite a bit of research on what exactly happens during your customers' monthly visits from 'Aunt Flo'. Therefore, you must know about the bloating, puffiness, and cramping we endure, and about our intense mood swings, crying, jags, and out-of-control behavior. You surely realize it's a tough time for most women. In fact, only last week, my friend Jennifer fought the violent urge to shove her boyfriend's testicles into a George Foreman Grill just because he told her he thought Grey's Anatomy was written by drunken chimps. Crazy!

The point is, sir, you of all people must realize that America is just crawling with homicidal maniacs in Capri pants... Which brings me to the reason for my letter. Last month, while in the throes of cramping so painful I wanted to reach inside my body and yank out my uterus, I opened an Always maxi-pad, and there, printed on the adhesive backing, were these words: 'Have a Happy Period.'

Are you freaking kidding me? What I mean is, does any part of your tiny middle-manager brain really think happiness - actual smiling, laughing happiness is possible during a menstrual period? Did anything mentioned above sound the least bit pleasurable? Well, did it, James? FYI, unless you're some kind of sick S&M freak girl, there will never be anything 'happy' about a day in which you have to jack yourself up on Motrin and Kahlua and lock yourself in your house just so you don't march down to the local Walgreen's armed with a hunting rifle and a sketchy plan to end your life in a blaze of glory.

For the love of God, pull your head out, man! If you just have to slap a moronic message on a maxi pad, wouldn't it make more sense to say something that's actually pertinent, like 'Put down the Hammer' or 'Vehicular Manslaughter is Wrong', or are you just picking on us?

Sir, please inform your Accounting Department that, effective immediately, there will be an $8 drop in monthly profits, for I have chosen to take my maxi-pad business elsewhere. And though I will certainly miss your Flex-Wings, I will not for one minute miss your brand of condescending bull sh*t. And that's a promise I will keep. Always.

Best,
Wendi
Austin , TX

I’ve always wondered how the Maxi Pad business remained so profitable. If you’re a girl, you understand what I’m saying. We all typically start out on the Red Road To Womanhood by first using a Maxi Pad. It’s only a short ride down The River Red Highway before we realize that using a Maxi Pad basically means walking around with a frigging mattress between your thighs. So sure, while every day there is some new, young, pimply-faced tween strapping a pillow to her underwear on the VERY first day of her VERY first period ever, there are millions of others having an “A-HA” moment when they realize tampons are the ONLY way to go and take the plunge into plugging up

"AND THEN THE FIGHT STARTED"

2011-03-10T05:22:00.000-08:00

Each time you comment on a new post gives you another chance to win the Mouse Pin Keep

We all need a good laugh every now & then.

My wife sat down on the couch next to me as I was flipping channels.
She asked, ‘What’s on TV?’

I said, ‘Dust.’
And then the fight started…

My wife was hinting about what she wanted for our upcoming anniversary.

She said, ‘I want something shiny that goes from 0 to 150 in about 3 seconds.’

I bought her a scale.

And then the fight started…

When I got home last night, my wife demanded that I take her someplace expensive …

so, I took her to a gas station.

And then the fight started…

After retiring, I went to the Social Security office to apply for Social Security. The woman behind the counter asked me for my driver’s license to verify my age..

I looked in my pockets and realized I had left my wallet at home. I told the woman that I was very sorry, but I would have to go home and come back later.

The woman said, ‘Unbutton your shirt’. So I opened my shirt revealing my curly silver hair. She said, ‘That silver hair on
your chest is proof enough for me’ and she processed my Social Security application.

When I got home, I excitedly told my wife about my experience at the Social Security office.

She said, ‘You should have dropped your pants. You might have gotten disability, too.’

And then the fight started…

My wife and I were sitting at a table at my high school reunion, and I kept staring at a drunken lady swigging her drink as she sat alone at a nearby table.

My wife asked, ‘Do you know her?’

‘Yes,’ I sighed, ‘She’s my old girlfriend.
I understand she took to drinking right after we split up those many years ago, and I hear she hasn’t been sober since.’

My God!’ says my wife, ‘who would think a person could go on celebrating that long?’

And then the fight started…

I took my wife to a restaurant. The waiter, for some reason, took my order first.

“I’ll have the strip steak, medium rare, please.”

He said, “Aren’t you worried about the mad cow?”"

Nah, she can order for herself.”

And then the fight started…

A woman is standing nude, looking in the bedroom mirror.
She is not happy with what she sees and says to her husband, ‘I feel horrible; I look old, fat and ugly.

I really need you to pay me a compliment.’

The husband replies, ‘Your eyesight’s damn near perfect.’

And then the fight started…..

I tried to talk my wife into buying a case of Miller Light for $14.95.

Instead, she bought a jar of cold cream for $7.95.

I told her the beer would make her look better at night than the cold cream.

And then the fight started….

My wife asked me if a certain dress made her butt look big.

I told her not as much as the dress she wore yesterday

and then the fight started…..

Saturday morning I got up early, quietly dressed, made my lunch, grabbed the dog, and slipped quietly into the garage.

I hooked up the boat up to the truck, and proceeded to back out into a torrential downpour.

The wind was blowing 50 mph, so I pulled back into the garage, turned on the radio, and discovered that the weather would be bad all day.

I went back into the house, quietly undressed, and slipped back into bed.

I cuddled up to my wife’s back, now with a different anticipation, and whispered, ‘The weather out there is terrible.’

My loving wife of 10 years replied, ‘Can you believe my stupid husband is out fishing in that?’

And then the fight started …

I asked my wife, “Where do you want to go for our anniversary?”

It warmed my heart to see her face melt in sweet appreciation.

“Somewhere I haven’t been in a long time!” she said.

So I suggested, “How about the kitchen?”

And that’s when the fight started….

My wife and I are watching Who Wants To Be A Millionaire while we were in bed. I turned to her and said, “Do you want to have sex?”

No,” she answered.

I then said, “Is that your final answer?”

She didn’t even look at me this time, simply saying “Yes.”

So I said, “Then I’d like to phone a friend.”

And that’s when the fight started….

When our lawn mower broke and wouldn’t run, my wife kept hinting to me that I should get it fixed. But, somehow I always had something else to take care of first: the truck, the car, e-mail, fishing, always something more important to me.

Finally she thought of a clever way to make her point.

When I arrived home one day, I found her seated in the tall grass, busily snipping away with a tiny pair of sewing scissors.

I watched silently for a short time and then went into the House.. I was gone only a few minutes. When I came out again I handed her a toothbrush.

‘When you finish cutting the grass,’ I said, ’you might as well sweep the driveway.’

and then the fight started…

EGG FOO YONG, PORK AND PEPER STIR FRY, STICKY RICE & NEW PRIM NEST LISTINGS!

2011-03-09T07:50:00.000-08:00

Check Out My New Prim Nest Listings!

Click on The Prim Nest button on the right sidebar to get there.

FAUX PEANUT BUTTER COOKIES

PRIM BEE’S WAX BOWL WITH GRASS & EGGS

EGG FOO YONG

I love Egg Foo Yong and this is better than any I have ever ate.

INGREDIENTS:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus more for frying
6 ounces white mushrooms, trimmed and sliced
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
3 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
6 ounces Canadian bacon, diced
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced
6 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

DIRECTIONS:

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat.

Add the mushrooms and 1/2 teaspoon sugar and saute until golden, 3 minutes.

Add the broth and 2 teaspoons soy sauce. Mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup water; stir into the skillet and boil until thickened, 2 minutes.

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in another skillet over high heat. Add the onion and the remaining 1 teaspoon sugar and cook until tender, 4 minutes. Add the bacon and cook 2 minutes. Add the peas, half of the scallions and the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce; cook 1 more minute. Transfer to a bowl and combine with the beaten eggs.

Wipe out the skillet. Return to high heat and add 1/4 inch of vegetable oil.

Add one-fourth of the egg mixture; spoon some of the hot oil on top and cook until puffy, 1 to 2 minutes. Flip and cook 1 minute, then drain on paper towels. Repeat to make 3 more omelets.

Add the sesame oil to the mushroom gravy and pour over the omelets. Garnish with the remaining scallions.

PORK AND PEPER STIR FRY

A very easy, spicy stir fry! Adjust spice to your particular taste! Best with marinade, but in a pinch, it's not necessary! Can be chicken, beef whatever meat or cut of meat you have on hand! Enjoy with basmati or sticky rice

INGREDIENTS:

Marinade:

1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon brown sugar
5 tablespoons olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

Stir Fry:

4 boneless pork loin chops, cut into bite sized pieces
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh ginger root
1 tablespoon hot chile paste
5 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
1 green bell pepper, cut into strips
1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup blanched slivered almonds
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, mix together rice wine vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, olive oil, and salt and pepper.

Stir in pork pieces, cover, and marinated the meat for several hours

Heat a large wok over medium heat. Toast almonds in hot, dry wok until golden brown and fragrant.

Heat vegetable oil in wok over medium-high heat. Stir in marinated pork pieces, ginger, and chile paste. (Discard remaining marinade.)

Mix in teriyaki sauce, and increase heat to high; cook, stirring constantly, until pork is white.

Stir in peppers, and continue to stir fry until most of the liquid has evaporated. Top with toasted almond slivers and fresh mint.

STICKY RICE

Sticky rice is frequently eaten with a meat dish and then a broad variety of vegetables. When you choose your rice, make sure you buy and use Sticky Rice. Sticky rice is not jasmine rice. If you try to cook jasmine rice this way, it will cook, but it will not taste or feel like sticky rice.

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup sticky rice (feeds 2-3 people)

DIRECTIONS:

The Microwave Method:

Soak the sticky rice for 10 minutes in warm water in a bowl. Soaking the rice is very important. I have tried this method without soaking the rice first and it was disastrous. The rice was undercooked and inedible. The water level should be just above the rice, which comes out to be 1 cup of rice and a little over 1 cup of water (about 10% more). I recommend using a non-plastic container because you may melt the plastic in the microwave. Cover the bowl with a dish and cook in microwave for at full power 3 minutes. Stir the rice around to move the rice from the top to the bottom. You will notice that some of the rice is translucent or cooked and some still has white center or the uncooked portion.

Heat it up again for another 3 minutes. Check and see if it is done. When cooked, all the rice should be translucent. If it needs more cooking, I recommend heating up and checking every 3 minutes or so. How long it takes to cook really depends on your microwave.

FAT TUESDAY'S SMOKED SAUSAGE & CHICKEN JAMBALAYA, MARDI GRAS SALAD & KING CAKE

2011-03-08T06:15:00.000-08:00

In honour of Fat Tuesday I am posting some Mardi Gras Recipes

SMOKED SAUSAGE & CHICKEN JAMBALAYA

Of course, the best jambalaya is prepared in huge black cast iron pots, but here’s a quick home version that is equally good. This Louisiana favorite serves as a great family one-dish meal or is perfect for a large crowd

INGREDIENTS:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into circles
1 large Vidalia onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon chopped thyme
2 cups long grain white rice
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (14-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 dried bay leaf
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS:

Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add chicken to the Dutch oven and brown on each side, about 8 minutes total. Remove to a plate and reserve.

Add sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, and thyme and saute until translucent and sausage is browned, about 8 minutes.

Stir in rice, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, and reserved chicken, and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, and cook on low, covered, for 20 minutes.

Turn off heat and let rice stand, covered, 5 minutes. Remove bay leaf. Fluff rice with fork and stir in green onions and parsley.

MARDI GRAS SALAD

Get in the spirit with this festive salad of oranges, bacon, carrots, red onions, and green spinach representing Mardi Gras colors with a delicious slightly sweet dressing

INGREDIENTS:

2 teaspoons finely chopped onion
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground dry mustard
1/4 cup olive oil
1 head red tip lettuce, washed, drained and torn into pieces
1 (10-ounce) package baby spinach, washed and drained
1/2 cup chopped red onion
2 (11-ounce) cans mandarin oranges, drained
1/3 cup shredded carrots
4 slices center cut bacon, crisply fried and crumbled

DIRECTIONS:

In a small bowl, whisk together onion, vinegar, sugar, mustard and olive oil.

Refrigerate until ready to toss salad.

In large salad bowl, combine lettuce, spinach, red onion, mandarin oranges, carrots and bacon.

Toss dressing with salad when ready to serve.

Terrific Tip: Cook bacon in the microwave for crispy bacon without the fat. Drain on paper towels after cooking. Center cut bacon is a better choice to use.

KING CAKE WITH CREAM CHEESE CINNAMON FILLING

A King Cake is a must during Carnival season. Now, you can make a quick King Cake recipe in your own home any time, without worrying about a complicated yeast dough.

INGREDIENTS:

2 (8-ounce) cans reduced-fat crescent rolls
4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
2 tablespoons confectioners sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons butter
1/3 cup light brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Mardi Gras Icing

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 F.

Coat a 10-inch round pizza pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Separate crescent rolls at perforations into 16 slices.
P
lace slices around prepared pan with points in the center.

About halfway down from points, press steams together.

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, confectioners sugar, and vanilla until creamy.

Spread on dough in the center where seams have been pressed together.

another small bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon with a fork until crumbly.

Sprinkle over cream cheese.

Fold dough points over filling, then fold bottom of triangle over points forming a circular roll like a king cake.

Bake for about 20 - 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool slightly and drizzle with colored Mardi Gras Icing

MARDI GRAS ICING

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup confectioner’s sugar
1-2 tablespoons skim milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Yellow, green, red, and blue food coloring

DIRECTIONS:

In a small bowl, combine all ingredients, except food color. Divide mixture into three bowls.

In first bowl, add a few drops of yellow food coloring. In second bowl, add a few drops of green food coloring, and in third bowl add equal amounts of drops of red and blue food coloring (to create purple).

Drizzle over baked cake

SLOW COOKER BRISKET SANDWICHES, COLESLAW, MIXED BERRY PARFAIT & MARCH GIVEAWAY!

2011-03-07T06:16:00.000-08:00

I Just had to Share this with you!
Charlie Sheen 47, is all over the news because he's a celebrity drug addict.

Andrew Wilfahrt 31, Brian Tabada 21, Rudolph Hizon 22, and Chauncy Mays 25 are all soldiers who gave their lives this week with no media mention. Shame on the media!

MARCH GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from
followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month!
.
The March Monthly Giveaway is this adorable Mouse Pin Keep

Each time you comment on a new post gives you another chance to win the Mouse Pin Keep.

Be sure to check out The Prim Nest! You will find the button on my right side bar. Just click on it.

SLOW COOKER BRISKET SANDWICHES

This is one of my best recipes. It creates a very juicy and tender brisket and is very easy to make. The best brisket to use will have a little fat on it. Not only is it great to come home to a hot delicious meal...your home will smell wonderful too!

INGREDIENTS:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 5-to-6-pound first-cut or flat-cut brisket, cut into 3 pieces
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
4 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
1 12-ounce bottle stout beer
4 stalks celery, cut into large pieces
2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/2 cup tomato paste
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1/3 cup dijon mustard
1/3 cup soy sauce
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon paprika
2 brioche or other rolls, split open and toasted
Coleslaw, for serving

DIRECTIONS:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the brisket with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides, about 10 minutes, adding the garlic in the last 2 minutes. Transfer the meat and garlic to a 5-to-6-quart slow cooker. Pour the beer into the skillet and simmer 30 seconds, scraping up the browned bits from the pan; add the beer mixture to the slow cooker.
Nestle the celery around the meat and add the brown sugar, tomato paste, vinegar, mustard, soy sauce, bay leaves and paprika. Stir, then cover and cook on low 8 hours or on high 6 hours. Transfer the meat to a cutting board and let rest 10 minutes, then thinly slice.

Serve on brioche halves with coleslaw; drizzle with the cooking liquid.
You'll have plenty of leftover brisket: Use it in tacos, quesadillas, chili or even on a pizza.

COLESLAW

A creamy coleslaw with lots of flavor. The seasonings complement each other and the cabbage. My family and friends love this coleslaw especially with BBQ sandwiches and Italian dishes

INGREDIENTS

6 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrot
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon celery seed
1/4 cup sugar
Salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots. In a smaller bowl, make dressing by combining mayonnaise, vinegar, celery seed, sugar, salt and pepper. Toss dressing into cabbage mixture and let chill. Serve in a family style bowl.

MIXED BERRY PARFAIT

This light and lovely parfait is incredibly easy to make, but will charm your guests with its pretty presentation of colorful berries and rich and velvety cream

INGREDIENTS:

4 cups berries (strawberries, blue berries, raspberries, blackberries, any combination of fresh berries)
1 ½ cup sour cream (Do not use light sour cream)
¼ cup white sugar
1 tbls. brandy
¼ cup Grand Marnier

DIRECTIONS:

Wash berries and de-stem and cut strawberries in half. Drain thoroughly and toss together carefully. In separate bowl, combine sour cream, white sugar, brandy and Grand Marnier and mix well.

In four glasses, alternate berries and cream mixture, starting with berries and ending with berries on top. Chill for an hour (and up to four hours).

Tips and Tidbits
You can add “extras” between the layers of this dish including crushed cookie crumbs or roasted chopped nuts such as pistachios (or a combination of those two).

EGG CARTON FLOWERS, GROWING EASTER GRASS IN EGG CARTON BASKETS,SWEET POTATO BURRITOS & MARCH GIVEAWAY!

2011-03-04T09:18:00.000-08:00

MARCH GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from
followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month!

The March Monthly Giveaway is this adorable Mouse Pin Keep

Each time you comment on a new post gives you another chance to win the Mouse Pin Keep

EGG CARTON FLOWERS

More snow is coming next week. I want it to fill like spring, at least in the house, so my great-granddaughter and I made Egg Carton Flowers. We had a great time and she was so proud of her flowers!

Supplies for Egg Carton Flowers:

egg carton
craft paint & brushes
green & yellow chenille stems
small yellow pom poms or pony beads
shaped green chenille stems
toilet paper roll
Tacky Glue

INSTRUCTIONS:

I cut the carton apart and my great granddaughter began painting.

We put a small hole in the bottom and stuck a green chenille stem through and then attached a folded yellow chenille stem by bending the green one over, then added a plastic pony bead to the top of the yellow pipe cleaners. On some you can hot glue a medium sized pom pom to the inside of the flower.

Make leaves by using the shaped green chenille.
Attach the leaves by bending them around the stem. Add a dab of Tacky glue to the underside of the flower to keep the green chenille stem in place.

Paint a toilet paper roll to make a vase. A 1 3/4" circle punch makes a perfect bottom for the toilet paper roll--just Tacky glue it on. Fill the 'vase' with rocks to keep it steady.

Viola’ Spring Flowers. We had such a lovely afternoon making the Egg Carton Flowers!
Adapted from Skip to my Lou

GROWING EASTER GRASS IN EGG CARTON BASKETS

To get ready for Easter, we’re recycling egg cartons into fun little baskets. Grass seed grows pretty fast, but I am starting early, in hopes to enjoy it a little before Easter is over. This is such a fun project for small children. Some of my great grandchildren will be here tomorrow to make this!

Supplies for Growing Easter Grass:

egg carton cups
paper strips – 1/4 inch wide 7-8 inches long
stapler/glue dots
clear plastic wrap
dirt – potting soil works great
grass seed – any kind available in the garden section of the store. Mine is Kentucky Blue grass and is what we use for our outside grass to fill in holes.
markers or color pencils to decorate

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cut apart your egg cartons into singles and trim the edges. Use the markers to decorate the egg cup. Decorate the paper strips then attached them with glue dots. But if you want to make sure they stay secure, staple them on. Add a layer of plastic wrap to the bottom before adding the dirt, just to keep the egg carton from stealing all the soil’s water.
Next, fill the cups with dirt and add a layer of grass seed. Top them off with just a little bit more dirt. Then water them good, you will need to keep them moist. Put them on a cookie sheet lined with foil and place them in a sunny location.

SWEET POTATO BURRITOS

Shake up taco night with these nicely spiced burritos

INGREDIENTS:

2 sweet potatoes (11/2 lb. or so total)
3/4 tsp. ground cummin
1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. granulated garlic powder
1/4 tsp. black pepper (optional)
2 TB. lime juice (juice of 1 lime)
1 15-oz. can black beans drained & rinsed
1 cup corn kernels drained
1/4-1/2 tsp. salt (optional)
6 whole wheat tortillas

Optional Fillings:

1/2 Cup chopped olives
1 Cup chopped tomatoes
1/4 Cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 Cup shredded sharp cheddar or Chihuahua cheese

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 400°. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork, place on a baking sheet and bake for 40-60 minutes, depending on the size of the sweet potatoes. Or, if you're in a hurry, microwave the sweet potatoes for about 15 minutes.

Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let cool. Reduce oven heat to 350°. Scoop the insides out of the potatoes into a bowl and mash with the spices and lime juice. Stir in the beans and corn. Add salt to taste if using. Spoon the mixture in the tortillas along with any optional fillings you desire. Roll up and bake for 10 minutes until heated through.
Recipe from Emily Sommer.

OMELET CUPS, BREAKFAST BURRITOS & TRUCK STOP BUTTERMILK PANCAKES!

2011-03-03T08:35:00.000-08:00

BREAKFAST ON THE GO! OMELET CUPS

I love making these omelet cups from time to time to mix it up a bit and have a yummy portable egg breakfast that is easy to heat & enjoy! My favorite way to do this is make a batch on Sunday evening, then have 2 of these little cups for breakfast 3 days the following week...

INGREDIENTS:

Makes 6 egg-omelet cups
5 eggs
1/4 cup non-fat milk
1 piece cheese
1/2 c frozen chopped spinach
1/3 c frozen diced onion
3 frozen sausage patties- thawed and chopped into bits
Dash of hot sauce
Pinch of salt & pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Spray a 6-muffin-tin with non-stick cooking spray.
Whisk the eggs, milk and hot sauce. Then add the onions and spinach, and stir in the chopped up sausage patties until all mixed up. Use a ladle to fill each muffin cup almost to the top (they do rise just a bit). Tear the cheese into 6 equal pieces and float a piece on top of each egg-cup.
Bake at 375 for about 45 minutes (the egg will appear totally cooked and look a bit golden when finished).
Serve with MORE hot sauce!! (the above mix ins are just one of a zillion ways to make these

TRUCK STOP BUTTERMILK PANCAKES

These pancakes are fluffy and delicious. This is a great, easy recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

2 eggs
1/2 c milk
2 Tbsp butter, melted
1 2/3 c buttermilk
1 2/3 c all-purpose flour
1 3/4 tsp baking powder
1 3/4 tsp baking soda
1 pinch of salt
1 Tbsp and 2 tsp sugar

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl whisk eggs, butter and milks. In another bowl combine all dry ingredients. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well combined. Adjust the batter thickness if needed by suing more flour (to make them thicker) or more buttermilk (if they seem too thick). (I didn't need to add a thing- they looked pretty good!)

Heat a large skillet or non-stick griddle to medium/medium-high heat. I use a ladle to pour out the flapjacks onto the griddle. When bubbles start appearing all over the "raw" side of the pancake (facing you) check the "doneness" of the cooked side with a spatula and flip when they are browned to your liking (some peeps like them super golden brown, while others may prefer a lighter pancake).

Serve these with good ole butter and syrup, but they would be awesome with some fruit!
Source: All Recipes

BREAKFAST BURRITOS

A different way to start your day. Burritos with fried eggs, bacon and refried beans topped with melted cheese. Ham or sausage may be substituted for the bacon. Serve with salsa on the side."

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound bacon
10 eggs
1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
8 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese
10 (10 inch) flour tortillas

DIRECTIONS:

Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, and set aside. Wrap the tortillas in foil and warm in the oven.
Fry the eggs in a greased skillet until firm. In a small sauce pan heat the refried beans.
Top each tortilla with refried beans, 2 strips of bacon, 1 egg and a little cheese. Roll tortillas into burritos and serve.

TO FREEZE:

Place burritos on parchment paper lined cookie sheets and freeze until solid. Then wrap individually and package in zip-lock freezer bags.
When you're ready to eat, unwrap the burritos, wrap loosely in microwave safe paper towel and heat in the microwave on high power for 1-3 minutes until hot and cheese is melted.
You can also thaw burritos in the refrigerator overnight, then wrap each in foil and bake at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes until hot. The thawed burritos can also be deep fried for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crisp.

MARCH'S GIVEWAY, PRIM NEST, IRISH STEW, EASTER & MOTHER'S DAY CARDS!

2011-03-02T08:25:00.000-08:00

Check out The Prim Nest by clicking on The Prim Nest or on the button the side bar! I am excited to show you all the wonderful offerings and hope you enjoy shopping with us!

MONTHLY GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from
followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month!

The March Monthly Giveaway is this adorable Mouse Pin Keep!

Each time you comment on a new post, it will give you another chance to win the Mouse Pin Keep!

If you want some beautiful & well made cards this is the place to get them, "kimberleeannkreation" on Etsy. I have purchased cards from Kim and I am impressed with the quality of her work. She makes Primitive Cards, Tags, and Bookmarks that are each embellished with layers of paper, a touch of glitter, and the perfect aged look. Enjoy your time browsing through kimberleeannkreation on Etsy. Just click on

kimberleeannkreation

VERSE INSIDE:

As spring comes to the world, bringing sunshine and gladness...this comes to you, bringing wishes for joy. Happy Easter!"

Mother's Day Card & Bookmark Set, FREE SHIPPING,Cards by kimberleeannkreation on Etsy

VERSE INSIDE:

IRISH STEW

The BEST stew you'll ever eat. Serve with rolls so you can wipe up all the sauce.

INGREDIENTS:

1 TB. oil
2 strips bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 lbs. stewing beef, cut in 1-inch pieces
1 large onion, chopped
2 TB. flour
2 carrots, sliced
12 large pearl onions
11/2 Cups beef stock (or 11/2 Cups water + 2 tsp. beef soup base
1 bottle dark stout beer (I used Guinness)
2 TB. dark brown sugar
2 TB. red wine vinegar
1 TB. bouquet garni
1/2-1 tsp. salt, to taste
1/4-1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper, to taste
6-8 cooked small red potatoes for serving, if desired

DIRECTIONS:

In an ovenproof pot, heat the oil. Add the bacon and cook until crisp. Remove the bacon to drain on paper toweling. Do not discard the bacon drippings. Return the pot with the drippings to the heat. Add the beef and brown evenly; remove the beef and set aside. Add the chopped onion and flour to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes; be careful not to let it burn. Return the beef and bacon to the pot and add the rest of the ingredients except the potatoes, if using. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 90 minutes. Taste and add more seasonings if desired. Add a potato to each diner's bowl and ladle stew over it.
Recipe from Deborah Forte Sczudlo

PRIM NEST'S GRAND OPENING & MONTHLY GIVEAWAY WINNER!

2011-03-01T08:40:00.000-08:00

Come join The Prim Nest for the Grand Opening! I are excited to show you all the wonderful offerings and hope you enjoy shopping with us!

MONTHLY GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from
followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month!

I will be posting my giveaway for March tomorrow. Comments on this posting will count for the March Drawing on April 1st.

"TODAY IS THE DAY TO ANNOUNCE THE WINNER OF MY FIRST MONTHLY GIVEAWAY “THE DRIED CARROTS & DRIED GRASS”!

I am sending a bunch of Prim Dried Carrots with some Dried Grass to “CHAR AT THE “PICKLED PEPPER PATCH”!

Congratulations Char for winning my first Monthly Giveaway!

SOUTHERN BANANA CAKE & MONTHLY GIVEAWAY!

2011-02-28T09:10:00.000-08:00

MONTHLY GIVEAWAY!

"TODAY IS THE FINALE DAY TO COMMENT, FOR A CHANCE TO WIN THE DRIED CARROTS TOMORROW"

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from
followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month!

SOUTHERNERS!

2011-02-25T06:56:00.000-08:00

A follower of my blog sent this to me. Since I am originally from Texas, I got a kick out of it and wanted to share with everyone.

For those of you who is...and those who ain't!

Southerners!

Southern women know their summer weather report:
Humidity
Humidity
Humidity

Southern women know their vacation spots:
The beach
The rivuh
The crick

Southern women know everybody's first name:
Honey
Darlin'
Shugah

Southern women know the movies that speak to their hearts:
Fried Green Tomatoes
Driving Miss Daisy
Steel Magnolias
Gone With The Wind

Southern women know their religions:
Baptist
Methodist
Football

Southern women know their cities dripping with Southern charm:
Chawl'stn
S'vanah
Foat Wuth
N'awlins
Addlanna

Southern women know their elegant gentlemen:
Men in uniform
Men in tuxedos
Rhett Butler

Southern girls know their prime real estate:
The Mall
The Country Club
The Beauty Salon

Southern girls know the 3 deadly sins:
Having bad hair and nails
Having bad manners
Cooking bad food

More Suthen-ism's:
Only a Southerner knows the difference between a hissie fit and a conniption
fit, and that you don't "HAVE" them,
you "PITCH" them.

Only a Southerner knows how many fish, collard greens, turnip greens, peas,
beans, etc., make up "a mess."

Only a Southerner can show or point out to you the general direction of
"yonder."

Only a Southerner knows exactly how long "directly" is, as in:
"Going to town, be back directly."

Even Southern babies know that "Gimme some sugar" is not a request for the
white, granular, sweet substance that sits in a pretty little bowl in the middle
of the table.

All Southerners know exactly when "by and by" is. They might not use the term,
but they know the concept well.

Only a Southerner knows instinctively that the best gesture of solace for a
neighbor who's got trouble is a plate of hot fried chicken and a big bowl of
cold potato salad.
If the neighbor's trouble is a real crisis, they also know to add a large banana
puddin'!

Only Southerners grow up knowing the difference between "right near" and
"a right far piece." They also know that "just down the road" can be 1 mile or
20.

Only a Southerner both knows and understands the difference between a redneck, a
good ol' boy, and po' white trash.

No true Southerner would ever assume that the car with the flashing turn signal
is actually going to make a turn.

A Southerner knows that "fixin" can be used as a noun, a verb, or an adverb.

Only Southerners make friends while standing in lines, ... and when we're "in
line,"... we talk to everybody!

Put 100 Southerners in a room and half of them will discover they're related,
even if only by marriage.

In the South, y'all is singular, all y'all is plural.

Southerners know grits come from corn and how to eat them.

Every Southerner knows tomatoes with eggs, bacon, grits, and coffee are
perfectly wonderful; that red eye gravy is also a breakfast food; and that fried
green tomatoes are not a breakfast food.

When you hear someone say, "Well, I caught myself lookin'," you know you are in
the presence of a genuine
Southerner!

Only true Southerners say "sweet tea" and "sweet milk." Sweet tea indicates the
need for sugar and lots of it -- we do not like our tea unsweetened.. "Sweet
milk" means you don't want buttermilk.

And a true Southerner knows you don't scream obscenities at little old ladies
who drive 30 MPH on the freeway.
You just say,"Bless her heart"... and go your own way.

To those of you who are still a little embarrassed by your Southerness: Take two
tent revivals and a dose of sausage gravy and call me in the morning. Bless your
heart!

And to those of you who are still having a hard time understanding all this
Southern stuff....bless your hearts, I hear they are fixin' to have classes on
Southernness as a second language!

ITALIAN SAUSAGE RIGATONI, ITALIAN LEAFY GREEN SALAD & TIRAMISU

2011-02-23T07:53:00.000-08:00

MONTHLY GIVEAWAY!

I have started a Monthly Giveaway. I will be drawing names from
followers that comment. The drawings will be on the 1st of each month!

Sending a bunch of Prim Dried Carrots with some Dried Grass to a lucky FOLLOWER that has commented during February!
These will be perfect for your Spring Decor. Remember each new posting you comment on, will be another chance for you to win the Prim Dried Carrots & Dried Grass

ITALIAN SAUSAGE RIGATONI

INGREDIENTS:

1 pkg. (19.76 oz.) Johnsonville® Italian Mild Sausage Links
1 pkg. (1 lb.) rigatoni pasta
3 Tbsp. olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lg. sweet red pepper, chopped
2 Tbsp. Italian parsley, chopped
1 jar
(26 oz.) of your favorite pasta sauce

DIRECTIONS:

Cook sausage links according to package directions.
Meanwhile, cook rigatoni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil until hot.
Add garlic; sauté for 30 seconds or until golden.
Add red peppers; sauté for 2 minutes or until crisp-tender.
Cut sausage into 1/4-inch coin slices; add to skillet. Stir in pasta sauce; heat through.
Add pasta; toss to combine. Sprinkle with parsley.
Serve immediately

ITALIAN LEAFY GREEN SALAD

Grape seed oil is the secret to this salad. If you cannot find it, use olive oil. Preparation time is 15 Minutes.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups romaine lettuce - torn, washed and dried
1 cup torn escarole
1 cup torn radicchio
1 cup torn red leaf lettuce
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced into rings
1/2 green bell pepper, sliced in rings
12 cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup grape seed oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, combine the romaine, escarole, radicchio, red-leaf, scallions, red pepper, green pepper and cherry tomatoes.
Whisk together the grape seed oil, basil, vinegar, lemon juice and salt and pepper. Pour over salad, toss and serve immediately.

TIRAMISU

Classic Italian dessert made with ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese. It can be made in a trifle bowl or a spring form pan. Try this substitute for mascarpone in this recipe: 16 ounces of cream cheese combined with 1/2 cup heavy cream and 5 tablespoons sour cream.

INGREDIENTS:

6 egg yolks
1 1/4 cups white sugar
1 1/4 cups mascarpone cheese
1 3/4 cups heavy whipping cream
2 (12 ounce) packages ladyfingers
1/3 cup coffee flavored liqueur
1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
1 (1 ounce) square semisweet chocolate

DIRECTIONS:

Combine egg yolks and sugar in the top of a double boiler, over boiling water. Reduce heat to low, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and whip yolks until thick and lemon colored.
Add mascarpone to whipped yolks. Beat until combined. In a separate bowl, whip cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold into yolk mixture and set aside.
Split the lady fingers in half, and line the bottom and sides of a large glass bowl. Brush with coffee liqueur. Spoon half of the cream filling over the lady fingers. Repeat ladyfingers, coffee liqueur and filling layers. Garnish with cocoa and chocolate curls. Refrigerate several hours or overnight.
To make the chocolate curls, use a vegetable peeler and run it down the edge of the chocolate bar.

EGG SHAPPED SIDEWALK CHALK, CRAYON ROLL HOLDER & DEVIL’S FOOD CUPCAKES~CREAM FILLING~CHOCOLATE GOUACHE FROSTING!

2011-02-22T09:37:00.000-08:00

FOR THE CHILDREN IN YOUR LIVES!

EGG SHAPPED SIDEWALK CHALK

Just in time for Spring, egg shaped chalk.These are so easy to make.

YOU WILL NEED:

Plaster of Paris
Tempera Paint
Petroleum Jelly
plastic Easter eggs
disposable cups
disposable spoons or wooden craft sticks
egg carton

DIRECTIONS:

Take petroleum jelly and liberally coat the insides of the eggs and then place in the egg carton. Mix 1/2 cup Plaster of Paris with 1/4 cup water and stir well. Mix in enough liquid tempera paint to get your desired color. Add about a teaspoon or so. You can also use powdered tempera paint (start with about 1 tablespoon and go from there). Mix up a blue batch, pour it into the eggs then immediately mix up a pink batch.
Pour mixture into egg halves. This amount makes about 1 1/2 eggs. Use the 1/2 to make two colored eggs. DO NOT pour extra plaster down your sink drain --I tell you this is a no no. Throw it in the trash!
Allow this mixture to set about 5 minutes---just until thick enough to put the egg halves together. Once together, hold tightly and carefully give egg a good shake and a firm tap on a hard surface to allow plaster to form to the egg and the halves to come together.
Allow eggs to harden overnight. To remove them from the plastic an adult must use a knife to work the halves apart. Make a few of these to put back into plastic eggs once first removed and dry to hide in your egg hunt.

CRAYON ROLL HOLDER

This Crayon Roll Holder is a great and useful gift for children

Noticed on the crayon roll, that the inner fabric lining gets marked up quite a bit from the crayons going in and out. So instead of using interfacing on the lining piece cover it with iron on vinyl. This is such a cool product. The turning at the end gets it a bit wrinkled. The only draw back is that it is slicker and the crayons have less friction. However the new closure allows you to tighten it up to keep the crayons inside.

YOU NEED:

1 - 5 X 16 1/2 inch piece of fabric for the outside
1 - 5 X 16 1/2 inch piece of fabric for the inside
1 - 6 X 16 1/2 inch piece of fabric folded lengthwise and pressed for the pocket
ric rac (if desired)
1 - 5 X 16 1/2 piece of iron on vinyl
1 Cord Stop

DIRECTIONS:

Iron on the vinyl to the right side of your lining piece following package directions.
Place pocket piece on top of right side of lining. Starting 1 1/4 inches over from the edge, stitch from top of pocket (back stitch at top) to bottom. Then stitch every 1 inch. You should have 1 1/4 inches left on the other end.
If using ric rac pin it around the edges, overlap at bottom. I use fray check to keep ends from unraveling.
Place outside piece on top of pocket and lining, right sides together. Place a 20" piece of cord (folded in half) in the middle on the right side. Ends of cord go towards the center.
Sew all the way around 1/4 inch from the edge. Leave a 2-3 inch opening at the TOP.
Clip corners and turn. Press (don't press vinyl with bare hot iron), making sure to press opening to the inside. Pin opening shut and then top stitch all the way around very close to the edge (making sure you sew all layers of the opening shut.)
Squeeze the Cord Stop and thread both ends of the cording through the center hole (have patience, thread ends one at a time). Tie the ends of the cording together into a knot. Place a drop of glue in the knot to keep it secure and then put fray check on the ends.

Finished!

DEVIL’S FOOD CUPCAKES~CREAM FILLING~CHOCOLATE GOUACHE FROSTING

Make your favorite chocolate cupcakes or prepare purchased cake mix. Let cupcakes cool.

CRÈME FILLING

INGREDIENTS:

1 - 7 oz container marshmallow cream
1/2 cup softened butter
1/3 cup powder sugar
1 tablespoon water
1/4 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS:

With electric mixer beat ingredients together until fluffy. Add in a few drops of red food coloring if you like pink filling like we do!
Attach a large tip to pastry bag and fill with cream. Insert tip into cupcake and fill until cupcake slightly expands.

GANACHE FROSTING

INGREDIENTS:

12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup heavy cream (must be heavy cream -- half and half will not work)

DIRECTIONS:

Place chocolate chips into a bowl and pour cream over the top. Heat in microwave until chips are soft. Allow mixture to sit a minute to continue melting the chips. Stir well. Let mixture come to room temperature. With electric mixer beat until fluffy. Fill pastry bag with large star tip and pipe onto cupcakes.
Enough frosting and filling for 12-15 cupcakes depending on your frosting and filling style.
Thanks to Skip to my Lou for these ideas.