tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42976683583817603342024-02-07T22:10:40.683-07:00Two Hens and a MonkeyHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-72996089447772401252013-05-30T23:37:00.003-06:002013-05-30T23:37:54.177-06:00What a year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We are officially on summer vacation! Well, I take that back. Xander is on summer break. Tiff and I still have the normal work schedule all day every day while Xander gets to have fun at summer camp for the next couple of months until he starts first grade at a new school!</div>
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Look at this guy! Not a TON of difference, but I can definitely see a change in his face. Definitely less baby, and he has a whole new set of teeth coming in. By December 2012, he was missing almost the whole front of his smile. Now he's getting his permanent teeth and his whole smile has changed.<br />
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This year, Xander has changed in many ways. As a kindergartner, trying to find his way socially, we have found that he sure is a chatterbox. That's all we ever hear. He's a fantastic student academically. He's reading above and beyond his grade level. He's learning quickly. He catches on. But he just needs to stay focused and stop talking! I do not know where he gets that because both his dad and myself were very shy growing up and just kept to ourselves. In the long run though, he will probably benefit from being a more outgoing and talkative individual.<br />
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Not only is Xander moving to a new school district for elementary school, but we had to say goodbye to the amazing YMCA program, where Xander has spent every day after school as well as summer camp last year. What an amazing group of people over there! They are always interested in parents being involved. They teach their students real life-lessons, rather than just make it a daycare situation. I will truly miss the YMCA friends I made through volunteer work, and I'm sad that Xander is having to end that chapter in his life.<br />
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Next year, life will be different for Xander. More time spent at his dad's house. A uniform to school every day. A whole new set of friends. I hope he is able to adjust to all the changes easily. <br />
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Until then, we will be enjoying the summer with library time, farmer's markets, bike rides (and hopefully finally learning how to ride without his training wheels!), swimming, and playtime at the park.<br />
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Now when do I get MY summer vacation?!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-66071355667379219222013-05-24T09:46:00.000-06:002013-05-24T09:46:23.443-06:00And Your Little Toes Too!!
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This last week has kind of been a
roller coaster ride for me. As our plans to expand our family are
getting closer and more real, we have realized that we have GOT to
get our funding in line for this baby, because holy moly, IVF is not
cheap! Contacting Medical Loan companies and feeling like we're
getting the run-around. Worrying that we're just going to get denied
everywhere. It's just starting to get to me. I mean, it's already
unfair that my wife and I can't have a child together as it is. But
on top of that, we also aren't able to adopt because we're a same-sex
couple. And we also can't get insurance coverage for IVF treatments
because as a same-sex couple, we're not ACTUALLY infertile. So what
are we to do? Are we really going to be denied the right to raise our
own child together? I know many would look at our situation and say
that this is just a sign that same-sex relationships are wrong and
that we aren't meant to make babies... But I refuse to take that as
a reason. I know the love that my wife and I share, and I know that
we are meant to raise a wee little one together. I know our love is
meant to be carried on through a baby of our own. I just know it.</div>
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Every so often when I'm feeling down
about the possibility of this whole thing NOT going through, I need a
little trip to the baby store. So yesterday, we hopped in the car and
headed to Babies R Us so we could get excited all over again. Ahhh, I
just love it! We were looking at all the teeny tiny shoes, and Tiff
told me she's just gonna eat up our little one's cute toes, and that just melted my heart. She's
going to be such a great mom, and I can totally see her loving on our
baby and eating its little feet and neck rolls. Having a baby with
Tiff is going to make me fall even more in love with her.
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The financial side of things is going
to be rough. Honestly, I'm not sure where the money is going to come
from. But somehow it will work out. I will not give into the idea
that we are not meant to have a baby just because we are gay. You
cannot put a price on our future child, and we will do whatever it
takes to make it happen.
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Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-15138690410714879922013-05-14T10:32:00.001-06:002013-05-14T10:32:33.482-06:00Back to Journelling
<span style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Welp,
you can say it's been awhile since I have been around this neck of
the woods. All my efforts have been over at HappyFoodHealthyLife. I
have made the decision that I need to be better at actual
JOURNALLING. I really don't write a whole lot about my personal life
over at HFHL. Over there, I have to worry about SEO, technical
things, pleasing my readers, etc etc. That's all fine and dandy, but
sometimes I wonder: Shouldn't I be documenting my life story
somewhere? I need to get back to that. In a no pressure way. Maybe
it'll be every day (although I highly doubt that), or maybe it'll be
once a month. Either way, changes are happening in our lives, and it
is time to put it all down on paper. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<div style="border: currentColor; line-height: 0.22in; margin-bottom: 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">So
where are we now?</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<div style="border: currentColor; line-height: 0.22in; margin-bottom: 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Xander
is just about to finish kindergarten at Fremont Elementary school,
and I couldn't be more excited for summer to start. Things have
changed for Xander this year. He's gotten more attitude. He's learned
how to lie. He's learned about taking cool things, like toys and
candy, to school in order to impress his friends. All while
frustrating Tiff and myself in the meantime. This summer, Xander will
be spending more time at his dad's house, and we will get to have him
on the weekends. That will be such a welcome change for us for a few
reasons. One: we're honestly really burnt out on all the lieing and
disobeying. Two: We get to be the fun weekend parents! Three: Tiff
and I really need some time for ourselves as we prepare for a new and
exciting time in our lives together.</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<div style="border: currentColor; line-height: 0.22in; margin-bottom: 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">And
what a perfect segway...</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<div style="border: currentColor; line-height: 0.22in; margin-bottom: 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">We
have decided to expand our family, and we couldn't be more excited!!
We have just barely started the process of IVF (in-vitro
fertilization), which is scary, expensive, and really quite surreal.
We are going about this conception in the most complicated way
possible. We are using Tiff's egg and an anonymous donor, and I will
be carrying the baby. Things are still at a pretty early stage, but
we start hormone injections in the next month or so, and we're hoping
to be pregnant in July, which would make for an April 2014 baby. EEK!
Less than a year from now, we could have a real live baby! And I know
I've been a Mama to a newborn before, but it's been almost 7 years,
and I'm scared to death of that whole first year. It did not come
easy for me. But I'm also a very different person now with a very
different (ie, more involved) spouse. We couldn't be more excited for
this new journey in our lives, and I can't wait to record it all
here.</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<div style="border: currentColor; line-height: 0.22in; margin-bottom: 0in; padding: 0in;">
<em><span style="color: #111111;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span lang="en"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">I
guess that mostly sums up the big things going on for us. I’m
working hard at trying to build my blog, Tiff got a great promotion
at work, and we’re just trying to make it through day in and day
out. Summer is right around the corner, and we have some fun plans in
the works. Hopefully, this will be a more regular thing, as I
document our new and upcoming journies.</span></span></span></span></span></span></em><span lang="EN"></span></div>
Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-74439467746122996082012-01-29T14:25:00.000-07:002012-01-31T06:44:16.110-07:00V-Day Wreath<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxoJlsnNnRr19huEnRstgtq7c6EbfQqNlDkzTtnZKXj3Qd88mPGbxcv10kzM3EP2FX8FWB77rKp9T8UU34VGi7XuotLmTNsrhlrggpQM4K6vZcnKANiDu6_0Kj81m8uOAb9eKYe5ZOd4/s1600/1CIMG4369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxoJlsnNnRr19huEnRstgtq7c6EbfQqNlDkzTtnZKXj3Qd88mPGbxcv10kzM3EP2FX8FWB77rKp9T8UU34VGi7XuotLmTNsrhlrggpQM4K6vZcnKANiDu6_0Kj81m8uOAb9eKYe5ZOd4/s400/1CIMG4369.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Love is on the door..... errr, in the air. Well, in this case, it's on the door. A couple of months ago, I came across <a href="http://www.theidearoom.net/2010/01/valentines-day-craft.html" target="_blank">this</a> cute Valentine's Day heart-shaped wreath, that looked easy and inexpensive enough that I could recreate it without too much difficulty.<br />
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It was really quite simple. The hardest part, I'd say was cutting out the billions of red felt circles to cover the wreath form. After about 7 episodes of Cake Boss, I had all the circles I needed - plus a bit of a hand cramp.<br />
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I haven't really done any other Valentine's Day crafting, but I am happy to say that I did finally get a festive wreath on the door. I meant to make a holiday/winter wreath since the day after Thanksgiving, but it just didn't happen.<br />
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Who else decorates for Valentines? Do you like V-Day? In my experience, I've learned that people either love it or hate it. I happen to be one of those who love it.<br />
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<a href="http://tipjunkie.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Tip Junkie handmade projects" border="0" src="http://www.tipjunkie.com/images/TipMeTuesdayButton1.png" /></a>
<a border="0" href="http://abowlfulloflemons.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t99/tonihammersley/BFOLprojectbutton.jpg" /></a>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-41112409226123150632011-12-30T17:06:00.001-07:002011-12-30T17:06:57.706-07:00Holiday RecapMy where has the time gone?! It seems like between the baking, shopping, crafting, and family gathering, I haven't had time to sit down and really reflect on this year's holiday season. I'd have to say that most of it was one big blur, unfortunately, but there were definitely some fun and special moments. This year was different from most years in the fact that I just couldn't get in the mood for it. I'm not really sure what happened, but I didn't even start buying gifts until a couple weeks before Christmas. Usually I'm online right after Thanksgiving looking for the best deals for everyone.<br />
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Let's see - where did the holiday season start for us this year?<br />
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We bought a droopy little Charlie Brown tree this year - maybe subconsciously, it's just what fit our Christmas mood - but either way, it was cute and it was ours. Xander and I had a fun time decorating it, as rinky-dink as it looked. It only took about a week of it sitting in our front room all bare waiting for some clothes.<br />
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Xander had his school Christmas program right before they let out for holiday break. It was definitely a joy watching him this year. Last year, he basically just froze on stage once he saw all the people in the big auditorium. Things went much better this year - for the most part. He did have one narration that he had practiced over and over again, and knew like the back of his hand, that he was supposed to say before one of the little kids' songs. I thought that maybe this would be the year that he would overcome his fear of speaking in front of others (that he may or may not get from both of his parents). But this was not the year. He peeked outside the curtain, looked around at everyone, and basically stood there. After about 5 seconds, he went back behind the curtain. He wasn't going to do it. But his friend Sabrina came out holding Xander's hand and said the words for him while Xander stood next to her. I was happy that he at least stood up there with her and kind of got the feel for it. But a bit of me was still a bit sad knowing that Xander knew those words so perfectly and that he should have been the one saying it. Oh well. Next year! I'm just happy that the rest of the performance went smoothly. He knew all the words to the songs and all the movements to the dances they had been practicing for months.<br />
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About a week before Christmas, we bundled up and headed downtown. We went to Trolley Square to see all the hustle and bustle and pay a certain Jolly man in a red suit a special visit! I'm not sure what's gotten into Xander this year, but he hasn't really known what he wanted for Christmas this year. He didn't really know what to tell Santa. Santa tried asking him what he wanted and then finally asked if he likes cars, and Xander said yes of course, but that's about all he got out of him. Luckily Santa has magical powers and knows the insides of children's hearts and knows their wishes :) After visiting Santa, we took Trax down to Temple Square to see all the lights. But we sure didn't last long. Tiffani and I were <i>so </i>cold! Xander didn't complain at all, but Tiff couldn't feel her toes, and I couldn't feel my fingers. It was definitely time for us to head out and get back home where it was warm!<br />
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This isn't really holiday related, but it's still worth documenting. We were at a store the Sunday before Christmas. We were mostly just browsing around and stopped to look at some clothes. Xander found an empty clothing rack that just looked like it needed to be climbed on. Unfortunately, I didn't really think much of it. We were letting him be a kid and happened to turn our backs. We never could have predicted what happened next. We heard a thud and a scream. Xander was standing on it and pulled it over on top of him. It hit him right on the head and put a pretty big gash under his eyebrow! 10 stitches worth! Luckily, no broken bones (which was my first concern) - just the stitches and a pretty bruised up eye and nose. It was pretty traumatic for all involved - Tiff and I couldn't help but spoil the crap outta him all the next day. Hopefully it won't scar too badly!<br />
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Next up is my most looked forward to event of the season. The annual family cookie bake-off! My older sister, Jenny, has hosted this event for at least the last 8 years or so. We take what we think is our best cookie recipe, bake up a batch or two, then send them off to very willing judges (neighbors) to vote for the winning cookie. This year, I also set up a cookie decorating station to keep the kids occupied. I made an amazing sugar cookie and frosting recipe that I found through <a href="http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/10/my-favorite-sugar-cookies.html" target="_blank">Mel's Kitchen Cafe</a>. As much fun as the kids had decorating, it definitely didn't take them much time at all. After about 10 minutes, they were over it and off just playing with toys again. Oh well - can't say I didn't try! As for who the winner was this year - let's just say it's a sensitive subject... I hate to say that I didn't even place in the top three! (or 4... or 5...) Ugh - how embarrassing - what does that say about the recipes on my blog?! I'm not even going to tell you what I made. In lots of peoples' opinions, it was one delicious cookie. Unfortunately, the judges weren't any of those people. So moving right along ...</div>
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Everything was leading up to this day, and what a great Christmas it was! We spent Christmas Eve over at Tiffani's mom's, where we ate a yummy dinner, dessert, played games, and exchanged gifts. I made a yummy (and VERY easy) <a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/company-broccoli-three-cheese-bake/845628f8-7a29-4c56-b805-839ae7ef968b" target="_blank">Broccoli Bake</a> to go with dinner and <a href="http://www.joythebaker.com/blog/2011/12/chocolate-peppermint-roll-with-chocolate-ganache/" target="_blank">Joy the Baker's aMAZing peppermint chocolate roll</a> for dessert. Both were hits! We stayed until about midnight playing a new game called Logo with Tiff's siblings. We didn't do so well on our team, but it was still a fun time.</div>
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When we got home, I still had to get the egg casserole into the crock pot, and then wrap presents! Oh my, it was a late night. We were up until about 4:00, and Xander got up bright and early around 8:30. Just about 4 hours of sleep just doesn't cut it for me! We had a fun morning spoiling each other around our Charlie Brown tree, then we ate a yummy breakfast that I didn't have to fuss over at all since it had been in the crockpot all night. After breakfast, we took Xander over to his dad's and it was off to my parents' for us. I made mashed potatoes for dinner and actually made a second peppermint chocolate roll for them as well. It was ALSO a hit there! I think this one's a keeper! </div>
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All in all, it was a crazy whirlwind of events, but there was a lot of great time spent together as a family. I was very happy being able to spread out our Christmas events by doing the bake-off one night, Christmas with the in-laws another day, and then Christmas with my family on another day. It was a lot less rushing around and time spent driving than what we've had to do in previous years. I vote for the new relaxed version of celebrating the holidays.</div>
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I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas season, and I hope the New Year brings all that you hope for. Have fun and be safe!</div>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-72200072144646882332011-12-06T07:55:00.001-07:002011-12-06T15:54:11.865-07:00Pretty Cash System Envelopes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, if you know me personally, you know that I'm a pretty big advocate for <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/home/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey's</a> cash envelope system. The basic run-down is that you budget all of your income down to the dollar, and you don't spend more than you make. Sounds simple, right? It really is. But you would be surprised how many people are budgeting and spending much more than they actually have coming in. How does that work, you ask? Credit cards. America loves their credit cards. It's easy spending... but there are many consequences that come with that convenient 'right now, gotta have it' mindset. <br />
So the deal is that you pay with cash. Obviously, there are bills that you pay online, and that's fine. But things that you physically go to the store for (groceries, dinner at a restaurant, movies, etc) should all be handled with cash. Each category is then divided out into separate envelopes. Once the cash is gone, it's gone. No using a credit card to last the rest of the month (because you really should cut those things up anyway!). You learn real quickly what's important to you. For example, do you <i>really</i> need to go out to eat tonight, because if you do, you know you won't have much 'restaurant' money left over for when your friend comes in town later this month. You really stop spending so spontaneously and actually <i>think </i>about what your money is doing for you and where it is going.<br />
Oh, I could go on and on about how Dave Ramsey's system has changed our lives. After just a little over a year, we have paid off about $10k in debt and don't have much further to go. We paid for our entire honeymoon in full with no credit cards and no bills that are following us around afterwards. Christmas has been saved for all year, so we won't have to go into debt in order to give this season. It's a very freeing feeling. This is coming from someone who has had some <i>major</i> money woes. I couldn't get a loan or a credit card even if I wanted to, so this cash system has been a blessing to us.<br />
Well, so the real reason for my post, besides putting the word out there is this: I was getting <i>really</i> sick of flimsy and boring white envelopes for our cash. They were falling apart about every month or two, and we were always having to replace them. So when I came across <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/263531015664864850/" target="_blank">this cute and simple solution</a> on Pinterest, I knew I was going to have to put it into action.<br />
I bought so cute and heavy-duty scrapbook paper. I didn't want these to tear easily like the white ones had been doing! <a href="http://www.thedigichick.com/shop/Standard-Envelope-Template-Set.html" target="_blank">Got the template downloaded</a>. A little tracing, cutting, and gluing, and this is what I came up with! Ta-da!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI_2vU8KIT1AWFLWMC55Fp-QY_x79R-zYNSVXj1Bb-6O3nKN2uBCIAmu9W3jUI1387JlYXGRdeWfRBUprlbyrgFtJhlAyA6JXQqY03GUWB8dh8x9i2QmQWCvS2hCEP0pMlD-Zq3x7Lb7o/s1600/fb296adf49f9__1323180793000.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI_2vU8KIT1AWFLWMC55Fp-QY_x79R-zYNSVXj1Bb-6O3nKN2uBCIAmu9W3jUI1387JlYXGRdeWfRBUprlbyrgFtJhlAyA6JXQqY03GUWB8dh8x9i2QmQWCvS2hCEP0pMlD-Zq3x7Lb7o/s400/fb296adf49f9__1323180793000.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
So simple and very aesthetically pleasing! I just pop them into my accordion coupon organizer that I use just for filing these envelopes, and I'm good to go!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbX9I0t3etu6ohCSTQduelTN5QW7JE6BMA0Pqzlhdjt4XKWyADOXlsc4bAEw1DBkvDz-X0nOND9pmcNIOC1aDNtE_nV3eifM6TaaBAxvwnCDdRts600At0vs68DISmiVvnD-9kWa_Vyqc/s1600/1a4a95f459c7__1323180974000.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbX9I0t3etu6ohCSTQduelTN5QW7JE6BMA0Pqzlhdjt4XKWyADOXlsc4bAEw1DBkvDz-X0nOND9pmcNIOC1aDNtE_nV3eifM6TaaBAxvwnCDdRts600At0vs68DISmiVvnD-9kWa_Vyqc/s400/1a4a95f459c7__1323180974000.jpg" width="300" /> </a><br />
Oh, and another annoyance I was having with the white envelopes is the flap. When you're paying with cash for everything, you're having to get in the envelopes constantly. Over time (or not so much time), the flaps wear out and rip and fall off. Really they're just in the way. So I decided to revise the template a bit by omitting the top flap, so it was just open. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTyAx3D0Nd91UzQ-cwJEzHaBm3bd1UP2eplLBJxxRcBPiNlHvjqczt3YcNZJyvLnaZe3Lyc6ro4wfdARj01Juh71BDyy_v4oFP1FhWgwxBjvLEU9O0NKTeaddt5ayfgvYdFUC9Y7XLyS4/s1600/69f026d95f22__1323180820000.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTyAx3D0Nd91UzQ-cwJEzHaBm3bd1UP2eplLBJxxRcBPiNlHvjqczt3YcNZJyvLnaZe3Lyc6ro4wfdARj01Juh71BDyy_v4oFP1FhWgwxBjvLEU9O0NKTeaddt5ayfgvYdFUC9Y7XLyS4/s400/69f026d95f22__1323180820000.jpg" width="400" /> </a><br />
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I think this will work so much better for us. And I'm just really happy to have something so pretty in my purse. Especially because I hardly ever whip my wallet out anymore, I gotta have <i>some</i> sort of pretty accessory! Ah, when did I turn into such a <i>girl!</i>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-81353937452633606142011-12-03T16:32:00.002-07:002011-12-03T16:36:08.415-07:00Big Announcement!Two Hens and a Monkey is now branching out! I have a brand-spankin' new food and recipes only blog called <a href="http://mamahenskitchen.blogspot.com/">Mama Hen's Kitchen</a> that I couldn't be more excited about. I'm so excited to have a place that's dedicated to all things kitchen related.<br />And now I can go back to writing about family and every day things over here at Two Hens. I hope you follow me over at Mama Hen's and I don't lose anyone in the move.<br /><br />Please check it out and let me know what you think. I think you'll be happy with the first post - it's a yummy seasonal cookie that is sure to please all your cravings. See ya over there!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-46943883239115595372011-12-02T12:05:00.001-07:002011-12-02T12:05:49.289-07:00Stay Tunedexciting new changes are coming this way! stay tuned!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-10289649661613657262011-11-27T10:04:00.003-07:002011-11-27T10:15:31.803-07:00Counting Down the Days AdventI am so excited to show you one of my favorite crafts I have made this year for the holidays. Last weekend, it was a full on girls weekend of scrapbooking and crafting. It was my mom, sister, sister-in-law, and niece. There was one exception to the No Boys Allowed rule though.... three month old Preston got to come along, which was totally fine with me. We got to bond a couple of times :)<br />Anyway, I worked on some thank-you notes and a little scrapbook that I got years ago. But my favorite project of the weekend was this cute little Advent calendar! I saw it about a month ago on <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/263531015664948969/">Pinterest</a> and knew right away that I would be making one for my family.<br />Having a 5 year old, I know that his concept of time is a bit skewed. Kids wake up wondering, 'is Christmas TODAY?!' or 'Is Christmas the day after the next day and then 2 days after that and then I go to sleep and THEN it's Christmas?' So then you make those chain count-down thingies, and although they do serve the purpose, they're just not nearly as cute! And they're also done after you use them. Paper being thrown away, and you have to make a new one next year. So I gave it a try, and it was so much fun! From picking out the papers to coming up with the best way to lay out the numbers. I had a great time creating it, and starting December 1st, we're going to have a great time counting down the days till Santa gets here!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS19mLZGGrhZSJIboIOAbzyZVnIshMBVnoygynQQQ0N1QULxQnwQcHyS30AfEjgg4-qoXPVHgUTcp3FlXWlQTcWvQiP6_V0s83FNAI3l5x8O1L7YXon3xof4Nb1WwHILlbbzo-DcEwFmI/s1600/CIMG3483.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 496px; height: 370px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS19mLZGGrhZSJIboIOAbzyZVnIshMBVnoygynQQQ0N1QULxQnwQcHyS30AfEjgg4-qoXPVHgUTcp3FlXWlQTcWvQiP6_V0s83FNAI3l5x8O1L7YXon3xof4Nb1WwHILlbbzo-DcEwFmI/s320/CIMG3483.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679725199716189442" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://pinterest.com/holly9483/"></a><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);" class=" down" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link"></span></span>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-90180429729524816882011-11-26T14:27:00.002-07:002011-11-26T15:17:48.805-07:00Perfect Pie Crust<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMhWW7nIKzWvdB8fElNPaOMxEKCBy2bfURbHtTr2_wpwiahAZ0NaknKwvhSFnUXaHR98YRAnaj91d-GawqY83EFm3QjWjeHz6XDR5nJe0oXrQURiLU3go7ijFkGntgFsSIQ8TYOjOH4Q/s1600/CIMG3431.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIoFxMAAbOZGdrfRuoItS15Eth4pjzhSgulC5cPPo5Fba3bFIOmVdPvLPpDLetE-6O_lNaFm3dVSF17lDHX9zYolO3Bimv16-MQGh1DOSz3rKSn3nlEw6WE5LIeN6set2CxI-TghiXf3M/s1600/CIMG3435.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 444px; height: 332px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIoFxMAAbOZGdrfRuoItS15Eth4pjzhSgulC5cPPo5Fba3bFIOmVdPvLPpDLetE-6O_lNaFm3dVSF17lDHX9zYolO3Bimv16-MQGh1DOSz3rKSn3nlEw6WE5LIeN6set2CxI-TghiXf3M/s320/CIMG3435.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679420722607626034" border="0" /></a><br />Pie crust seems to be something that people are scared of. And I have to admit that I used to be one of those people. But now, I have realized that pie crust can be easy. You just have to keep a few things in mind. I hope to convince you that you do not need to be scared of pie crust. <br />I have tried many different so-called PERFECT pie crusts. I have heard tips and tricks all over the place. With all the recipes I've tried and the pie class I've been to, I feel like I've finally figured out the winning combination to creating an unbeatable crust that will hold whatever sweet pie filling you choose. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Perfect Pie Crust</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">makes a double crust</span><br /><br />3 cups flour<br />2 Tablespoons sugar<br />1 teaspoon salt<br />10 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cold<br />10 Tablespoons vegetable shortening<br />1/4-1/3 cup ice water<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ug9tStoSvbu89HiUcF6vmaiX8CwTgMa563HDGufxT_dz1TmUKX4skmNkDE2nGAEpjjBl3bTKMNko7OiKAu4llqejShrgquNIYOh3W-x6JwRfU1BlXxB35t2Ef_jYFYHjyNirNzstgok/s1600/CIMG3406.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 458px; height: 343px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ug9tStoSvbu89HiUcF6vmaiX8CwTgMa563HDGufxT_dz1TmUKX4skmNkDE2nGAEpjjBl3bTKMNko7OiKAu4llqejShrgquNIYOh3W-x6JwRfU1BlXxB35t2Ef_jYFYHjyNirNzstgok/s320/CIMG3406.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679420532936748578" border="0" /></a>Alright, here's your first key to pie crust success. Everything goes in the fridge for at least a couple hours before starting. This includes your bowl, your pastry blender, your flour and sugar... everything that you will be using. Warmth is your enemy in pie crust. Remember this!<br /><br />In a large COLD bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the butter and shortening. I have a nifty little trick for butter. Grate it with your cheese grater! Hold onto the butter with the wrapper still on the end so as not to warm the butter too much with your body temperature.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0g0B_BCW29bhFkMjtRA_pNIOGJnOnK0qTPQWvcvv9tfuDEG5PQdt4MJtAQdbGrSxK7x-bdtBFCZNHXatUXSs1yUU3T5iWfWJZdwPeVvOWu84v8n4JusQoygZH9OR9idhJrMFZ35QJEeo/s1600/CIMG3408.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 456px; height: 341px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0g0B_BCW29bhFkMjtRA_pNIOGJnOnK0qTPQWvcvv9tfuDEG5PQdt4MJtAQdbGrSxK7x-bdtBFCZNHXatUXSs1yUU3T5iWfWJZdwPeVvOWu84v8n4JusQoygZH9OR9idhJrMFZ35QJEeo/s320/CIMG3408.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679420534940022594" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQKaZkCqwDB-7k1wBX8263ZO505KFScolRJ_lWZIOoIm8qD8y0qLGUwAR28C2XnXWiW6p8uIfCIUFCjs_9MSKzL9GBQARv7mPB33knZyWzW66C8lqklu0K0ogqyBj6A7awqS1wZ8PIM8/s1600/CIMG3412.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 443px; height: 332px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQKaZkCqwDB-7k1wBX8263ZO505KFScolRJ_lWZIOoIm8qD8y0qLGUwAR28C2XnXWiW6p8uIfCIUFCjs_9MSKzL9GBQARv7mPB33knZyWzW66C8lqklu0K0ogqyBj6A7awqS1wZ8PIM8/s320/CIMG3412.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679420542257854530" border="0" /></a>Mix this all together with a pastry blender until the consistency of coarse cornmeal. Small chunks of butter and shortening is what you're looking for.... Did I mention, this pie crust will probably require an extra 30 minutes on the elliptical!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipROd42H1VDNmeaF8SUiqJzjMU5e1jKnV_cHj0r2THngyIv2R6AC7MBPyMnqw0wR_LOlQ7KFeBXGnp7MEpOSlLUA0ZV91p057o2m-Nqw0YuhY7lNV_P-d_L__YoEMT3r9-RbB2YYfQyIU/s1600/CIMG3416.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 456px; height: 341px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipROd42H1VDNmeaF8SUiqJzjMU5e1jKnV_cHj0r2THngyIv2R6AC7MBPyMnqw0wR_LOlQ7KFeBXGnp7MEpOSlLUA0ZV91p057o2m-Nqw0YuhY7lNV_P-d_L__YoEMT3r9-RbB2YYfQyIU/s320/CIMG3416.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679420550200568818" border="0" /></a>At this point, add your ice water. Start with just about a 1/4 of a cup. Combine with a fork until just barely blended. If it's not coming together completely, add just a <span style="font-style: italic;">bit</span> more water! A little goes a long way. Too much water and over-mixing will give you a thick, tough, and non-flakey crust. This is what you DON'T want. Use the fork to mix together until you're ready to form into 2 equal discs. That's the only time you should be using your hands to mix. Mixing with hands = warming of the dough = bad.<br />Once you have formed into 2 discs, wrap in plastic wrap or parchment paper and refrigerated for 1/2 hour. This will re-chill the dough before you start rolling it out for your pie. I used to make the mistake of thinking you could make the dough and then refrigerate or freeze for days on end. No - not an option. Your crust won't be fresh, it'll be tough, and did you know it starts to turn a GRAY color?! <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> appetizing! This crust is easy enough to pull together that there is definitely time to whip it up right when you need to bake it. No need to prepare ahead of time.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNBsWtYgqmvSq81ICTShIeA-cwLzPAC7JWeHW1jIxS8PzC9g2-3jW_ygQNIwYd5SkgB-FM6BygQdb0FKKce8uJ8TM4OUPFVlD-gZFT8D6ZfsXMxxC3T07p1tK4NXGMFtqI633Tp1IOTE/s1600/CIMG3421.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 437px; height: 327px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNBsWtYgqmvSq81ICTShIeA-cwLzPAC7JWeHW1jIxS8PzC9g2-3jW_ygQNIwYd5SkgB-FM6BygQdb0FKKce8uJ8TM4OUPFVlD-gZFT8D6ZfsXMxxC3T07p1tK4NXGMFtqI633Tp1IOTE/s320/CIMG3421.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679420555179732034" border="0" /></a><br />So after your 1/2 an hour has passed, generously flour your counter space. Or if you're like me and don't have much counter space, move your operations to your kitchen table. Place your disc of pie dough on the flour and sprinkle a little more flour on top of that. With your rolling pin, roll out in all directions until you have somewhat of a circle shape slightly bigger than your pie pan. Don't worry about the circle being exact - just a general roundish shape. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMhWW7nIKzWvdB8fElNPaOMxEKCBy2bfURbHtTr2_wpwiahAZ0NaknKwvhSFnUXaHR98YRAnaj91d-GawqY83EFm3QjWjeHz6XDR5nJe0oXrQURiLU3go7ijFkGntgFsSIQ8TYOjOH4Q/s1600/CIMG3431.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 457px; height: 342px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMhWW7nIKzWvdB8fElNPaOMxEKCBy2bfURbHtTr2_wpwiahAZ0NaknKwvhSFnUXaHR98YRAnaj91d-GawqY83EFm3QjWjeHz6XDR5nJe0oXrQURiLU3go7ijFkGntgFsSIQ8TYOjOH4Q/s320/CIMG3431.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679420718528455602" border="0" /></a><br />I then fold the circle in half, and then half the other way so you have a triangle. I should've taken pictures of this, but since I didn't, I'll do my best. Put the point of your triangle in the center of the pie pan and gently unfold. This should center your crust pretty closely.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIoFxMAAbOZGdrfRuoItS15Eth4pjzhSgulC5cPPo5Fba3bFIOmVdPvLPpDLetE-6O_lNaFm3dVSF17lDHX9zYolO3Bimv16-MQGh1DOSz3rKSn3nlEw6WE5LIeN6set2CxI-TghiXf3M/s1600/CIMG3435.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 491px; height: 368px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIoFxMAAbOZGdrfRuoItS15Eth4pjzhSgulC5cPPo5Fba3bFIOmVdPvLPpDLetE-6O_lNaFm3dVSF17lDHX9zYolO3Bimv16-MQGh1DOSz3rKSn3nlEw6WE5LIeN6set2CxI-TghiXf3M/s320/CIMG3435.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679420722607626034" border="0" /></a>Fill your pie with your favorite pie filling. If you're at a loss of what to fill it with, try out my <a href="http://twohensandmonkey.blogspot.com/2011/11/lattice-top-apple-pie.html">Apple Pie</a>! You won't be disappointed. Roll out the second pie crust and place on top. Or you can make a fun and beautiful lattice-topped crust.Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-34266150688744609562011-11-26T12:11:00.007-07:002011-11-27T10:39:32.324-07:00Lattice Top Apple Pie<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGm4fT5q3xmQ8sPaMVWoTnv4-wKB-hPOL667wWElKYg79aEXamS_geSjZpcBJL9wGZAGRKRMp_AWcrWm_GHfFB_jNggoqQIVxl1sPXQ_vqWc_RmCGYs_BGERKf18glzc4Fomos39nY8-o/s1600/CIMG3467.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 459px; height: 344px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGm4fT5q3xmQ8sPaMVWoTnv4-wKB-hPOL667wWElKYg79aEXamS_geSjZpcBJL9wGZAGRKRMp_AWcrWm_GHfFB_jNggoqQIVxl1sPXQ_vqWc_RmCGYs_BGERKf18glzc4Fomos39nY8-o/s320/CIMG3467.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679409393191455506" border="0" /></a><br />I feel like it's been ages since I visited my blog. You would think that with all the delicious food this time of year, there would be a ton to blog about and I'd have a couple posts a day. It's not that I haven't been baking and cooking - it's just that I've been enjoying the Thanksgiving holiday and really haven't wanted to interrupt it with blogging. Just like I get a 4-day weekend from my 9-5 job, I have felt like I needed to take a little break from this too. There is nothing more important to me than family. There is nothing that I am more thankful than my family. I'm pretty sure I told Xander how thankful for him about 5,415,265 times. He is my pride and joy. He's a big part of what has made me who I am today. And Tiffani - I couldn't be more thankful for my new wife! Spending time with my little family and our extended families has been so great. We spent the day eating a great dinner over at Tiffani's mom's house with lots of family. After a few hours, we dropped Xander off with his dad and headed over to my parents' house for dessert to spend time with them and my sister's family. Oh my, the dessert! There was a banana cream pie, pumpkin pie, better-than-sex cake, and I brought my signature Apple Pie. I may or may not have eaten leftover apple pie for lunch yesterday.<br />I have been making this pie for about 6 years now, and it's one that I feel I've finally perfected. I think ever since my dad told me it was better than the frozen (yet delicious-o) Sara Lee Dutch Apple Pie we'd been eating for the previous 20-some years, I have made it a point to bring it to family gatherings. This Thanksgiving was no exception.<br />I am so excited to be sharing this recipe with you guys! It is probably my most practiced, most favorite, and definitely most YUMMY. The flaky crust and the gooey, cinnamon-y, apple-y goodness on my tastebuds. It's almost like a baby to me. I have held on to it for so long and shared with those that I love. It has grown from a crust that was always falling apart with bumps and bruises to this beautiful and stable vessel for these apples. It is now ready to be let loose into the world, and that it why I'm giving it a debut here on Two Hens! I know it's a little late for Thanksgiving, but Christmas is right around the corner, and you know, you could always just make a special occasion for this tasty little thing. It's THAT good! So without further ado ...<br /><br />Lattice-Top Apple Pie<br /><br /><a href="http://twohensandmonkey.blogspot.com/2011/11/perfect-pie-crust.html">1 recipe for a 9-inch double crust</a><br />1/2 cup unsalted butter<br />3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour<br />1/4 cup water<br />1/2 cup white sugar<br />1/2 cup packed brown sugar<br />1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />5 granny smith apples - peeled, cored, and sliced<br />1 egg<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgibRmNq4N_0zGlEw6YQvjX7-us9zg25wbKU7fG-uscSVUANjXAupdB9XHTs11s6OTQi_SN5A8PUUt9j0pPP4wLwNSF8b8wRvrwcIpjF1kjJOurf4O06H95l29oNCpmSXVXHlNmYR-8wT8/s1600/CIMG3423.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 392px; height: 293px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgibRmNq4N_0zGlEw6YQvjX7-us9zg25wbKU7fG-uscSVUANjXAupdB9XHTs11s6OTQi_SN5A8PUUt9j0pPP4wLwNSF8b8wRvrwcIpjF1kjJOurf4O06H95l29oNCpmSXVXHlNmYR-8wT8/s320/CIMG3423.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679408553280307906" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4R8diQo41U8PEnTPmoxPF2xdtXmxzcRHmzo3IHS4oGUmlc9GpBQQMTaGT7I6XtWK9nBerjLtlwKp9Nb4GR0Ngn5a7W446XTUiFS1SmbjZBGb8vCih2GTZZj-e0eMN86NOrBdXd_9pPOg/s1600/CIMG3425.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 339px; height: 452px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4R8diQo41U8PEnTPmoxPF2xdtXmxzcRHmzo3IHS4oGUmlc9GpBQQMTaGT7I6XtWK9nBerjLtlwKp9Nb4GR0Ngn5a7W446XTUiFS1SmbjZBGb8vCih2GTZZj-e0eMN86NOrBdXd_9pPOg/s320/CIMG3425.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679408558105824066" border="0" /></a><br />Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Melt the butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour to form a paste. Add water, white sugar and brown sugar, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil. Reduce temperature and let simmer, stirring often.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvkASFyggj3fuLrh3IKNDKDHjcXklvglg-rGa6vgkwl3fEG4B0C10nPCMxjEr1F7slPnDO49V5Euv_tKHeSpix_GSNFgx-lG5HAyXtT18yHpVKcKubJEc94IHmc83KiZV1FxWBuHLzJM/s1600/CIMG3428.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 426px; height: 319px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvkASFyggj3fuLrh3IKNDKDHjcXklvglg-rGa6vgkwl3fEG4B0C10nPCMxjEr1F7slPnDO49V5Euv_tKHeSpix_GSNFgx-lG5HAyXtT18yHpVKcKubJEc94IHmc83KiZV1FxWBuHLzJM/s320/CIMG3428.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679408561764716546" border="0" /><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);" class=" down" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link"><img src="http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif" alt="Link" class="gl_link" border="0" /></span></span></a><br />Place the bottom <a href="http://twohensandmonkey.blogspot.com/2011/11/perfect-pie-crust.html">crust</a> in your pie pan.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQ08K6Q2hdvJ2l26utAYOOBcUq6EscKScLoXCQsRi6cvbx0-sr7yITz3gX8X1CHsSooJXeKz53hyphenhyphenE3pT654OmCi1yEjoBP9WZR0nCamvCKjdSOSSn_XvDLRn4optzdgfytHstJTQuHvY/s1600/CIMG3434.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 413px; height: 309px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQ08K6Q2hdvJ2l26utAYOOBcUq6EscKScLoXCQsRi6cvbx0-sr7yITz3gX8X1CHsSooJXeKz53hyphenhyphenE3pT654OmCi1yEjoBP9WZR0nCamvCKjdSOSSn_XvDLRn4optzdgfytHstJTQuHvY/s320/CIMG3434.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679408574927126994" border="0" /></a><br />Fill with apples, mounded slightly. Gently pour the sugar and butter liquid over the crust. Pour slowly so that is does not run off.... but just know that no matter how careful you are, you are probably going to want to put this thing on a baking sheet. This will also help with the after-baking clean up.. unless you like to spend time scrubbing out your oven.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kB3uJDv_ilUsrHtY31HlSw3kgaap8AL0JX3Mzn0gSD9wJC7lPvkbzxS5qy8h38XRhN39fnS0aepwNHlU9Zdw5DzN5-7J6FFwjU-z1glF3sbTI69Dbqc_TgJQn7HKh1oRDk2QFFSQJBg/s1600/CIMG3436.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 410px; height: 307px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kB3uJDv_ilUsrHtY31HlSw3kgaap8AL0JX3Mzn0gSD9wJC7lPvkbzxS5qy8h38XRhN39fnS0aepwNHlU9Zdw5DzN5-7J6FFwjU-z1glF3sbTI69Dbqc_TgJQn7HKh1oRDk2QFFSQJBg/s320/CIMG3436.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679409063919641522" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5VFo0YkbSyWFPgemd6xQTy3-ZS54yjUHXKT9ze-YKpB0Ufk8_CQbcjbC-oI3GtoKQ5YuK3zZEMbxHeRKQ5d_DsPD9IRkjAEl2XCddgN-pDXjaf_O6fq6tiAxDZNM1eybqgWRcdiePnU/s1600/CIMG3440.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 409px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5VFo0YkbSyWFPgemd6xQTy3-ZS54yjUHXKT9ze-YKpB0Ufk8_CQbcjbC-oI3GtoKQ5YuK3zZEMbxHeRKQ5d_DsPD9IRkjAEl2XCddgN-pDXjaf_O6fq6tiAxDZNM1eybqgWRcdiePnU/s320/CIMG3440.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679409060177137570" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V4TvSxnAe7iqkjW9sdIUk163cXrU9xvFl7u9sNapYgBuCgggPVhfxp8C8b3G3pwdOfzvAD1723YL0Ihd8BLjt8_4GSg0UBtTNBfqy668IBe11FfG5PYKZrlaaqqlUWZllAHSTVs1V5E/s1600/CIMG3444.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 447px; height: 334px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V4TvSxnAe7iqkjW9sdIUk163cXrU9xvFl7u9sNapYgBuCgggPVhfxp8C8b3G3pwdOfzvAD1723YL0Ihd8BLjt8_4GSg0UBtTNBfqy668IBe11FfG5PYKZrlaaqqlUWZllAHSTVs1V5E/s320/CIMG3444.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679409073754633250" border="0" /></a><br />Cover with a lattice crust. In a small bowl, whisk an egg with a small bit of water. Brush your egg wash all over the top of your crust. This will give you that beautiful golden brown top crust. Sprinkle the top generously with cinnamon.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qZxjxbiDw2fsY4rQLLGPfAY7D1Y9YF1UM8mOdAkybOhQwBaziw5L4TU6SfyImfsnDDh67da2Igi7ad6rBqfJ8gPsa780ymaFpZwcg7VR_JzNmqHxTGzoouu6PJx-x__gZmgKu4GXPF0/s1600/CIMG3445.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 448px; height: 335px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qZxjxbiDw2fsY4rQLLGPfAY7D1Y9YF1UM8mOdAkybOhQwBaziw5L4TU6SfyImfsnDDh67da2Igi7ad6rBqfJ8gPsa780ymaFpZwcg7VR_JzNmqHxTGzoouu6PJx-x__gZmgKu4GXPF0/s320/CIMG3445.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679409080700837954" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIAQ_-DWnC83GD7b-nlFEhKbLXhBIjDDWmu0OdTdp7aakeiOiHKWgpr4yX5IVu9-hDcTuiINLTW0TnBzsHIdCI6y9dTt2bAgEgIkEA1jPRDgKZ5wXJqMG3O2wBu04C2rOu_777Chrx3k0/s1600/CIMG3446.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 451px; height: 337px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIAQ_-DWnC83GD7b-nlFEhKbLXhBIjDDWmu0OdTdp7aakeiOiHKWgpr4yX5IVu9-hDcTuiINLTW0TnBzsHIdCI6y9dTt2bAgEgIkEA1jPRDgKZ5wXJqMG3O2wBu04C2rOu_777Chrx3k0/s320/CIMG3446.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679409082470429282" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil6jJCtS5_w4zAYoz4t2qx5L2bOw9z8rmI2eA_pDZRDpdAzqbCxVw-AVOvCQov7J6xoKPu7hBXzNlZrnvUbvbC3s55PcyBF6v4IlbWuGFce6uvmXDGwpMZBb2_m-DFtQjRWBzwLslmB3Q/s1600/CIMG3458.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 337px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil6jJCtS5_w4zAYoz4t2qx5L2bOw9z8rmI2eA_pDZRDpdAzqbCxVw-AVOvCQov7J6xoKPu7hBXzNlZrnvUbvbC3s55PcyBF6v4IlbWuGFce6uvmXDGwpMZBb2_m-DFtQjRWBzwLslmB3Q/s320/CIMG3458.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679409386464792674" border="0" /></a><br />Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Reduce the temperature to 350 degrees F and continue to bake for 35-45 minutes, until the apples are soft.<br />Let this cool for at LEAST 3 hours! This is a very important step. I promise. As much as you will want to cut and eat this right out of the oven, that is not a good idea. You will end up with Apple Pie Soup! Sounds yummy - but probably not what you're looking for. After at least 3 hours, dig in! Slice it up and pair with a big ole' scoop of Vanilla Bean. Oh yes please! Come to MAMA!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd7ERHu-eqQeo1SXwepDW7nrXSW2dKTuRSKkd-uGiYGfiAVqE6IWFoZcv2X9WnJR3XVNhyphenhyphen9zyGymH-60CwVANXO9ZaJuG0ipJ1jxFb5_5mf75rsscWZR3-JOt3BoWUx4Bs1vaaZqKtDWE/s1600/CIMG3474.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 516px; height: 386px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd7ERHu-eqQeo1SXwepDW7nrXSW2dKTuRSKkd-uGiYGfiAVqE6IWFoZcv2X9WnJR3XVNhyphenhyphen9zyGymH-60CwVANXO9ZaJuG0ipJ1jxFb5_5mf75rsscWZR3-JOt3BoWUx4Bs1vaaZqKtDWE/s320/CIMG3474.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679409400246218434" border="0" /></a>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-53764180190318017992011-11-21T20:38:00.010-07:002011-11-21T21:35:57.809-07:00Blueberry Streusel Cookies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYNzxe4OJzvTuvV96gVPGS3HmVPnCdxcePiBVz5v9VhoaK28y5lz1UhKwzrNlvgFoZ92RuvNrLtzn9jgQWw9wU7cV8ty6Fzl9LECB-RuMr_dDR0IHGQfnxuG-Q_d0cgdIBv76ghOkcuw/s1600/CIMG3354.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1L2vrCnBzeyhyphenhyphenTnnyXb9TeZaqiChmqp4MeBnieB9_7yODhSP4pOI_P9k3ZsIwbPAnIjyuklRam8wvboghc9_7QTcgEwplG_hP6MATHeOLe5aAEbGyBDLBprOLUMVG7PEo-mm96TmlQxA/s1600/CIMG3360.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 436px; height: 326px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1L2vrCnBzeyhyphenhyphenTnnyXb9TeZaqiChmqp4MeBnieB9_7yODhSP4pOI_P9k3ZsIwbPAnIjyuklRam8wvboghc9_7QTcgEwplG_hP6MATHeOLe5aAEbGyBDLBprOLUMVG7PEo-mm96TmlQxA/s320/CIMG3360.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677673052302488482" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0kYkp2usB7CHCgBitDHXObazYXzr1iqjWHHsR32_DLZfge-ztrFzx9HdAU8mc-OzGWXPvkkwxLohmWXha-fxOe05tIFMlTBx7KzkBCDt5Scmf_X7Ps95kJyEKchZWZUANVofRPlqBaE/s1600/CIMG3358.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 419px; height: 314px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0kYkp2usB7CHCgBitDHXObazYXzr1iqjWHHsR32_DLZfge-ztrFzx9HdAU8mc-OzGWXPvkkwxLohmWXha-fxOe05tIFMlTBx7KzkBCDt5Scmf_X7Ps95kJyEKchZWZUANVofRPlqBaE/s320/CIMG3358.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677673059413195314" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifyxD4avy4ZJEO6XlM4GTTCSXcaLUvUs1mki_FHu1p4ihTGr2_p8WjH-Q0_DL2NOgu2jLzR7H0RMzM7HdUzB9TteX7uC2v0nVXmSUns8f0alTfFhriuP8fsYd2IzwLbcp1yXLP8uGunUg/s1600/CIMG3345.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 334px; height: 445px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifyxD4avy4ZJEO6XlM4GTTCSXcaLUvUs1mki_FHu1p4ihTGr2_p8WjH-Q0_DL2NOgu2jLzR7H0RMzM7HdUzB9TteX7uC2v0nVXmSUns8f0alTfFhriuP8fsYd2IzwLbcp1yXLP8uGunUg/s320/CIMG3345.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663826501451362" border="0" /></a><br />As the holidays are upon us, family traditions are all around us. Movies that we watch together as a family around the holidays. Games we play after we stuff ourselves with delicious meals. Concerts and lights we go to see around the holiday time. And of course, we can't forget those foods we eat and can't live without each and every holiday season.<br />Last week, I thought back to what holiday yumminess I have eaten year after year and what foods make me think of the holidays with my family. Blueberry streusel muffins. Those were a staple of every Christmas morning. Mom would make a batch of oatmeal and blueberry streusel muffins while we were anxiously waiting to see what Santa had brought for us. I sure do love me a blueberry muffin, but I wanted to come up with something that could be eaten morning, noon, and night... and then again for your midnight snack. Muffins are messy, you usually have to put it on a plate, and they're sometimes bigger than that quick snack you may want to grab. So I came up with an amazing cookie that very closely resembles a blueberry muffin. All the way to the streusel topping. My goodness, these are great! They're rich and cakey, yet a cookie so much easier to eat. The streusel topping adds this amazing crunch to the tops and edges of the soft pillowy cookie. And they don't fall into your coffee nearly as easily as a muffin would. I don't know about you, but I am not a fan of that goo at the bottom of your coffee mug after half your muffin has fallen in! Pretty sure this wouldn't happen with these cookies. Please try these cookies and let me know what you think about them. I personally think they're great and I kinda can't stop eating them! I'm happy to present these yummy pieces of heaven to you all.<br /><br />Blueberry Streusel Cookies<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">makes 32 cookies<br /><br /></span>1/2 cup butter, softened<br />1 cup granulated sugar<br />2 eggs<br />1 teaspoon vanilla<br />2 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour<br />2 tsp. baking powder<br />1 cup blueberries<br /><span class="ingredient"></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">for streusel<br /></span></span>4 Tablespoons butter, cold<br />1/3 cup all-purpose flour<br />2 Tablespoons granulated sugar<br />1 Tablespoon brown sugar<br />1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />1/2 teaspoon nutmeg<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxI0KRJb3K-BzyOee2cREzg6xJUBKiaXo7xiHRqyqOx2Yo8xhB17JhdCoNKN14EkyKC2ZOJdNY1jxuFYfetcJnmiwjOmkCwVkpCVM0xsOXGIESi-44cg3FsR4YspQjMFrqDKXU3ZwpfM/s1600/CIMG3281.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 451px; height: 338px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxI0KRJb3K-BzyOee2cREzg6xJUBKiaXo7xiHRqyqOx2Yo8xhB17JhdCoNKN14EkyKC2ZOJdNY1jxuFYfetcJnmiwjOmkCwVkpCVM0xsOXGIESi-44cg3FsR4YspQjMFrqDKXU3ZwpfM/s320/CIMG3281.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663206056603634" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Mix butter with sugar. Beat with a mixer until light and fluffy.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDL0Trw4Wnd5TTTt6qClaBFxmC1GVasWIJj1qC_BQ7G68_SXkCf3TkOvbFiDk5KGDwS8qNzVImIMngA6yA6XWkjFQEIvXBhZizryW-15u4wen6aeX3cKEW3hJGqI0XtdjiqU9MJVU52c/s1600/CIMG3286.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 441px; height: 330px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDL0Trw4Wnd5TTTt6qClaBFxmC1GVasWIJj1qC_BQ7G68_SXkCf3TkOvbFiDk5KGDwS8qNzVImIMngA6yA6XWkjFQEIvXBhZizryW-15u4wen6aeX3cKEW3hJGqI0XtdjiqU9MJVU52c/s320/CIMG3286.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663211221965762" border="0" /></a><br />Beat in eggs and vanilla until well mixed.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_t7yuv5mWV6WheW3H_8byBwYoL_-zkh8bxQF4e2GH9_hREIIEgow0uXBak4NBZb_9gjz9atwyp_xrS1mondUio9u3NATihKJMBThd_qZ1c8CGDn-E-SLqaV7VfWle3iwMrJRzLmHlGiI/s1600/CIMG3290.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 429px; height: 321px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_t7yuv5mWV6WheW3H_8byBwYoL_-zkh8bxQF4e2GH9_hREIIEgow0uXBak4NBZb_9gjz9atwyp_xrS1mondUio9u3NATihKJMBThd_qZ1c8CGDn-E-SLqaV7VfWle3iwMrJRzLmHlGiI/s320/CIMG3290.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663222427846098" border="0" /></a><br />Add flour and baking powder and blend well.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-84bbuAUnZjY-26sXFTMiYSeX7DPirpdkVJW7bnmlcOib91zS4RZ3SNcZo1iY-SNejFA78P2aNbhf9eZQUbfYbXkvQId3KpPbWrU_TwfesKVQWCGm8tTUlLTFRP0FfFwznSQmhnoBH3A/s1600/CIMG3293.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 414px; height: 310px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-84bbuAUnZjY-26sXFTMiYSeX7DPirpdkVJW7bnmlcOib91zS4RZ3SNcZo1iY-SNejFA78P2aNbhf9eZQUbfYbXkvQId3KpPbWrU_TwfesKVQWCGm8tTUlLTFRP0FfFwznSQmhnoBH3A/s320/CIMG3293.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663235516222178" border="0" /></a><br />Little Monkey Xander helped out with this step!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZFT3ks9cc86GncMe4uBNn3cz8TewJmL9PttNKencPSdErnDJkISBBUWq8WuN65ShBkogkBJWlLbhF9JY2k2cnTXtLIu_qQWfHyAFYtamzhCdJpq2Hg9ZO-TZagz4Y7ncat6Ptd8iz0k/s1600/CIMG3291.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 411px; height: 308px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZFT3ks9cc86GncMe4uBNn3cz8TewJmL9PttNKencPSdErnDJkISBBUWq8WuN65ShBkogkBJWlLbhF9JY2k2cnTXtLIu_qQWfHyAFYtamzhCdJpq2Hg9ZO-TZagz4Y7ncat6Ptd8iz0k/s320/CIMG3291.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663225498201442" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoGs-ipl3XICU247j3Y2yIFjIyNreFM1E4r9S4tNR33eLnQxwuWQ5jz-ZWbFWZm1cXF8_SkzL3zEzEweyqQIYqsCBwAo6WWjmJkvQDSEEAcNd_OcgrrSX2vGIpcaj9Sr04iZsQyLzzTI/s1600/CIMG3297.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 385px; height: 513px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoGs-ipl3XICU247j3Y2yIFjIyNreFM1E4r9S4tNR33eLnQxwuWQ5jz-ZWbFWZm1cXF8_SkzL3zEzEweyqQIYqsCBwAo6WWjmJkvQDSEEAcNd_OcgrrSX2vGIpcaj9Sr04iZsQyLzzTI/s320/CIMG3297.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663489382722770" border="0" /></a>It is now time to fold in the blueberries. You want to be very gentle with a rubber spatula, folding the blueberries into the dough. You don't want to squish your berries - make sure they stay intact so they end up hot and gushy when the cookie is baked.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0tQ6_43lJh3Y6H8g3fa39A6u6-syotW-MC49jRndYtZvCO7cCmhyem1sC8LK6bVRuVvSImi-zKNPPm4hyphenhyphen2ZnqTvWi0sbxfZLPMEcr26MDzofqWclZOvNmwAVAedCz5AwgAU0f6Hg24yM/s1600/CIMG3299.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 318px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0tQ6_43lJh3Y6H8g3fa39A6u6-syotW-MC49jRndYtZvCO7cCmhyem1sC8LK6bVRuVvSImi-zKNPPm4hyphenhyphen2ZnqTvWi0sbxfZLPMEcr26MDzofqWclZOvNmwAVAedCz5AwgAU0f6Hg24yM/s320/CIMG3299.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663493585278690" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdEhQ8PH5CvH1CSZ93PemC8aMZ1UJbt9aCS6f-RWirOtUEgfZebbMcoVZ_u2m8wtG57DhmA_JGi46Dcwe8_gcNTQwH49U6gOK-XE2ohVrnBd1fR8FpcYloOanfjF_HMTTohBDUAVPrZGA/s1600/CIMG3301.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 427px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdEhQ8PH5CvH1CSZ93PemC8aMZ1UJbt9aCS6f-RWirOtUEgfZebbMcoVZ_u2m8wtG57DhmA_JGi46Dcwe8_gcNTQwH49U6gOK-XE2ohVrnBd1fR8FpcYloOanfjF_HMTTohBDUAVPrZGA/s320/CIMG3301.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663497806784818" border="0" /></a><br />Wrap and refrigerate until well-chilled--3 hours or overnight. If you skip this step, you will end up with a very sticky and hard to work with dough.<br />Before taking out your dough, you need to make your streusel. Combine all ingredients with a pastry blender. You don't want to work it too much. You want to see little pea-sized balls of buttery dough.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuF4RB3wMu4FP6oGj7ySCqZ5jxcvzgoSspeQFOzfkKDDnzn0GjQxUylB6gbFin5eCDBEixGpip0ftA8aXD4Bx2fLK-vy3Xg0CR5Kdy4QLrJ6GBK7MfSVcEoA12CXwhRCC7opKjPdO9cZY/s1600/CIMG3329.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 422px; height: 316px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuF4RB3wMu4FP6oGj7ySCqZ5jxcvzgoSspeQFOzfkKDDnzn0GjQxUylB6gbFin5eCDBEixGpip0ftA8aXD4Bx2fLK-vy3Xg0CR5Kdy4QLrJ6GBK7MfSVcEoA12CXwhRCC7opKjPdO9cZY/s320/CIMG3329.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677671161345035330" border="0" /></a><br />Once the dough is completely chilled, form Tablespoon-sized balls in your hand. Dip the tops of the doughball into the streusel and place on a baking shape leaving an inch in between each cookie. Please pay no attention to my ugly baking sheets! I do take donations in the form of new baking-ware!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCowNU-6VlFxfX_mYttk3RhJXvHEvKeZQGicTdg6piP0pxBw9oKo6Zy0TEXdSzzM-pqzyrVXoAKgjvka-rlhmGH6PnHkWQjRkmsF2jtUT6UlI7DLihgOQ4HR0Jjaz8z27n4T_-Q7qzjI/s1600/CIMG3337.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 413px; height: 309px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCowNU-6VlFxfX_mYttk3RhJXvHEvKeZQGicTdg6piP0pxBw9oKo6Zy0TEXdSzzM-pqzyrVXoAKgjvka-rlhmGH6PnHkWQjRkmsF2jtUT6UlI7DLihgOQ4HR0Jjaz8z27n4T_-Q7qzjI/s320/CIMG3337.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663514120718322" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdx-sfxzTqgSnk1ahjhe4Qwy2f_HBjBErZjnw7eI69k1Lyav2kJErs5BdGtgOqfkVvkqHhy9RAT-bxPwdBQWLnKVq9Ynv0sBsqTxMthzHOcvNw10xQWxt0qOyl93WA4XVXmesm9GAI8q0/s1600/CIMG3341.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 403px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdx-sfxzTqgSnk1ahjhe4Qwy2f_HBjBErZjnw7eI69k1Lyav2kJErs5BdGtgOqfkVvkqHhy9RAT-bxPwdBQWLnKVq9Ynv0sBsqTxMthzHOcvNw10xQWxt0qOyl93WA4XVXmesm9GAI8q0/s320/CIMG3341.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663821049389970" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTE-b354JabLPsHPbIQzp0tlmEkX7yMAbwtWP895kImXHxbAeEMUb89_UqqPapH730cQ42kf5nOlVgliff0ChCCtnp-6CWInqIzqrQER-qxzfc0jSJpmQVGq9JmB06OKHbZyCMpYQjg8/s1600/CIMG3342.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 421px; height: 315px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTE-b354JabLPsHPbIQzp0tlmEkX7yMAbwtWP895kImXHxbAeEMUb89_UqqPapH730cQ42kf5nOlVgliff0ChCCtnp-6CWInqIzqrQER-qxzfc0jSJpmQVGq9JmB06OKHbZyCMpYQjg8/s320/CIMG3342.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663824192421042" border="0" /></a>Bake in a 375 degree oven for 13-16 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvypyhS7JDKcspW5cN4QqAGvSiFyQt82oXTyjB0MhR09f1bB2mObnmiGFBM6NdchHPMAbRS1CSvVeGFajbxnKax4OtB1gajH8k_CnpnIfGejIg1PMHCFOplh-0tQOjGQRjG2ViSf0d5o/s1600/CIMG3351.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 312px; height: 416px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvypyhS7JDKcspW5cN4QqAGvSiFyQt82oXTyjB0MhR09f1bB2mObnmiGFBM6NdchHPMAbRS1CSvVeGFajbxnKax4OtB1gajH8k_CnpnIfGejIg1PMHCFOplh-0tQOjGQRjG2ViSf0d5o/s320/CIMG3351.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663846619078034" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioe1nzMMbt8u3YACJAG52ZPpbNKS3PR5S9fvDF3UdCVMiEbL4LeTqq4Ot2HLwjgUL2AWkuN5zBXcbLdgD-hyB8Vfm3mAYArhsqV0xLi6OkGY21d894Vp5nQr2tKiIAT36h6rbcvzQdoTU/s1600/CIMG3349.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 321px; height: 428px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioe1nzMMbt8u3YACJAG52ZPpbNKS3PR5S9fvDF3UdCVMiEbL4LeTqq4Ot2HLwjgUL2AWkuN5zBXcbLdgD-hyB8Vfm3mAYArhsqV0xLi6OkGY21d894Vp5nQr2tKiIAT36h6rbcvzQdoTU/s320/CIMG3349.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677663831677345474" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqVBCzQbBs8jGSxrb3I7RdimX8ji1gjX6KyCze8g-A8zSoxdfhTYoszChOtzWHhGlGo0MLGRlpmHFsPtdvyYu0wP_BUeko_7gaKEM012wOpv9GaEB4OsIgsI8W8FWyVTr8ZdhABx83I0g/s1600/CIMG3357.JPG"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYNzxe4OJzvTuvV96gVPGS3HmVPnCdxcePiBVz5v9VhoaK28y5lz1UhKwzrNlvgFoZ92RuvNrLtzn9jgQWw9wU7cV8ty6Fzl9LECB-RuMr_dDR0IHGQfnxuG-Q_d0cgdIBv76ghOkcuw/s1600/CIMG3354.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 404px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYNzxe4OJzvTuvV96gVPGS3HmVPnCdxcePiBVz5v9VhoaK28y5lz1UhKwzrNlvgFoZ92RuvNrLtzn9jgQWw9wU7cV8ty6Fzl9LECB-RuMr_dDR0IHGQfnxuG-Q_d0cgdIBv76ghOkcuw/s320/CIMG3354.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677673584527948786" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh3KUGCLQst9XdQxJCpTbDgVJwe6G_VM2qSgmP9htj1kukEKqfEiLWwV2MaIPAdvLMDsUcjUDGFG-Etq92DvxrsJPHK1Ogrdy8nGupywF8yA4upc84o5GOAVinpsRiVWdIWZADFdsrB8w/s1600/CIMG3358.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 373px; height: 279px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh3KUGCLQst9XdQxJCpTbDgVJwe6G_VM2qSgmP9htj1kukEKqfEiLWwV2MaIPAdvLMDsUcjUDGFG-Etq92DvxrsJPHK1Ogrdy8nGupywF8yA4upc84o5GOAVinpsRiVWdIWZADFdsrB8w/s320/CIMG3358.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677665486572650882" border="0" /></a>What baking traditions do you have in your family during the holidays?? <em>Come join the fun at the <a href="http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/holiday-recipe-exchange-rules/">My Baking Addiction</a> and <a href="http://www.goodlifeeats.com/holiday-recipe-exchange-rules" target="_blank">GoodLife Eats</a> Holiday Recipe Swap sponsored by <a href="http://www.chicagometallicbakeware.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chicago Metallic </a>in your blog post.</em>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-17026540085709415712011-11-16T21:53:00.006-07:002011-11-17T09:19:44.347-07:00Delicious Tomato Basil Soup<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8M64QjhbD2SOLtLQ-VhrSjov4VgjFyyaGdSYTnKq2mNk-qBVDKZQOKJv-v6iXxO8RBOu_KFk2Y5afai6GoF06q4UQMnCphN7HiH1Ay0GOfr7ux6zvyvHnx2e511b8HEeMu-db9-l3BCw/s1600/CIMG3241.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675826099142959378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 460px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 344px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8M64QjhbD2SOLtLQ-VhrSjov4VgjFyyaGdSYTnKq2mNk-qBVDKZQOKJv-v6iXxO8RBOu_KFk2Y5afai6GoF06q4UQMnCphN7HiH1Ay0GOfr7ux6zvyvHnx2e511b8HEeMu-db9-l3BCw/s320/CIMG3241.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Shut.the.front.door.and.hold.on.to.your.grilled.cheese.sammy.this.soup.is.a.MAZ.ing!<br />Seriously, this is possibly my new favorite soup. 'What can be so good about a tomato soup?' you ask. Oh my, where do I start? The velvety creamy texture. The underlying roasted red pepper flavor. The sharp bite of the tomatoes. The hint of basil.<br />So, if you live anywhere a Zupas Cafe and you've tried their Tomato Bisque, chances are, that is one of your favorite soups. I know that <span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">was</span> the case for me. I am happy to say that I have found a way to top Zupas in my own home! It's <span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">that</span> good!<br />No more tomato soup out of the can. This pretty little number does have quite a few extra steps outside of the normal 'mix milk or water with condensed soup and nuke for 3 minutes' instructions. In all honesty, most recipes I make during the weeknights aren't quite as time consuming as this one, but the results made up for it by far! On a chilly autumn November day, there's nothing better than a hot bowl of soup and a gooey stringy grilled cheese sandwich to dip into your soup. Please please... stop at the store tomorrow and pick up all the ingredients for this recipe. Your tastebuds will thank me!<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Creamy Tomato Basil Soup</span><br />adapted from <a href="http://www.howdoesshe.com/tomato-soup-so-good-youll-never-go-back">How Does She</a><br /><br />2 (28 oz) cans of whole tomatoes (reserve juice)<br />2 Tablespoons brown sugar<br />4 Tablespoons butter<br />1 small onion, chopped<br />2 Tablespoons tomato paste<br />2-3 Tablespoons flour<br />2 (15 oz) cans or one carton of vegetable broth<br />2 fresh red peppers, roasted<br />1 cup prepared pesto<br />1.5 cups half and half (low fat or fat free substitutions fine)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikP8-O_O99AjE8kIbzwzuF0tapG8a6jkfrns3AgVvM49TfXZzDh1-c7C_6hK7iISKxUF2Gx5SDwjE2tsU5txUXGIL3J9YP2CQpP4pxXB1jNQuLd7Ju3Gj7aYWyPVUytyTrWhw555BoRu0/s1600/CIMG3203.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675825506828531634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 433px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 324px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikP8-O_O99AjE8kIbzwzuF0tapG8a6jkfrns3AgVvM49TfXZzDh1-c7C_6hK7iISKxUF2Gx5SDwjE2tsU5txUXGIL3J9YP2CQpP4pxXB1jNQuLd7Ju3Gj7aYWyPVUytyTrWhw555BoRu0/s320/CIMG3203.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Note: to roast peppers, cut them in half, clean out the seeds, and place them skin side up on a broiler pan. Broil them for about 20-25 minutes or until you notice the majority of the skin turning black. Don't be alarmed - they're not burned! Remove from oven and let cool. When fool enough to handle, peel off the black skins and cut in large chunks. Don't skip the red peppers! They're the secret ingredient!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9zyYmisd9RX6KmkSj3mbhGLtmd8n-kLnuBc3RSR3WVsKWxN15VRRJ15wrmKaxraK5GJxG6dCrjVClitvEFCHDf2jDzff1tkYbHS1aaV1-5rqgTb39QeOGxrAvfTsqlfqIEQin2836q0/s1600/CIMG3212.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675825519785912034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 403px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 537px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9zyYmisd9RX6KmkSj3mbhGLtmd8n-kLnuBc3RSR3WVsKWxN15VRRJ15wrmKaxraK5GJxG6dCrjVClitvEFCHDf2jDzff1tkYbHS1aaV1-5rqgTb39QeOGxrAvfTsqlfqIEQin2836q0/s320/CIMG3212.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Heat oven to 450 degrees. Line baking sheet with foil. Squeeze out seeds of tomatoes and arrange them on baking sheet. Sprinkle them with brown sugar. Bake until liquid is evaporated and tomatoes are caramelized (about 30 minutes).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4E7nYYq5vqrNTSInBMokpAOIKdBv9XcFBEVNhuzOtv99e59_uBM0afLNW3v23lcJU1ClSw6_JTqlzLf6k1PvIQLLETRnTyf5_kUYNC8Ry_s5aYoDosheQpFdxjKq-BqVB-5Ju3kq6Uc/s1600/CIMG3206.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675825515020426066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 409px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 545px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4E7nYYq5vqrNTSInBMokpAOIKdBv9XcFBEVNhuzOtv99e59_uBM0afLNW3v23lcJU1ClSw6_JTqlzLf6k1PvIQLLETRnTyf5_kUYNC8Ry_s5aYoDosheQpFdxjKq-BqVB-5Ju3kq6Uc/s320/CIMG3206.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Heat butter, onion, and tomato paste in large pot. The onions will take on a <span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">gorgeous </span>color at this point. Saute until onions soften.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29V5V73KRhZeag2YHM_7L6LKDW9qStz7rjPNwUN7ORRlfYdb6ba0ARGUeTOu1_iBkWrtwFN5YwNF6GEh_xXYBJcKb6V09HE47JuDVpo4mOAjvQhm84Nb0xRC1KcJzE1uZzi2xskVWDvE/s1600/CIMG3220.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675825539081143058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 453px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 339px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29V5V73KRhZeag2YHM_7L6LKDW9qStz7rjPNwUN7ORRlfYdb6ba0ARGUeTOu1_iBkWrtwFN5YwNF6GEh_xXYBJcKb6V09HE47JuDVpo4mOAjvQhm84Nb0xRC1KcJzE1uZzi2xskVWDvE/s320/CIMG3220.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Add flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add vegetable broth and reserved tomato juice. Bring to a boil.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVX_VxAlocIHPR-fxhEBILFNodsU_hxYmCXhsSJASjODA0Mo0CByAG4ZgkRsMafOplb_z5q9szb5uXCZjYOpTey7RdkLLnQv_7eQzSF4a1FiQDDTG2nHk7CJaH-FeqonT32T00lNnoxB8/s1600/CIMG3221.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675825545051749858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 482px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 361px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVX_VxAlocIHPR-fxhEBILFNodsU_hxYmCXhsSJASjODA0Mo0CByAG4ZgkRsMafOplb_z5q9szb5uXCZjYOpTey7RdkLLnQv_7eQzSF4a1FiQDDTG2nHk7CJaH-FeqonT32T00lNnoxB8/s320/CIMG3221.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Add tomatoes and peppers and puree until smooth with an immersion blender. Or you can remove from pot in small batches and puree in a food processor or blender.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFSc5H8isLMKtPMSA0f3Jdb6VGiwn1uFSGUb1gFTk6ehNS2WtX4s9Ws5iHgc2W8HVIs7ZwyCwB2NLYMFG1GpZUTsrheZ7YG7UtFFHzjBwf39L23qxVEKHq9OMC7pGyt3Dua5nymwaRSc/s1600/CIMG3226.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675826072899746642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 458px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 343px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFSc5H8isLMKtPMSA0f3Jdb6VGiwn1uFSGUb1gFTk6ehNS2WtX4s9Ws5iHgc2W8HVIs7ZwyCwB2NLYMFG1GpZUTsrheZ7YG7UtFFHzjBwf39L23qxVEKHq9OMC7pGyt3Dua5nymwaRSc/s320/CIMG3226.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Return to put, simmer for 15 minutes. Five minutes before serving, add pesto and half and half.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ts3fu4cMpiMqjzjPJzNTqG0XZdh2qxk09IeAp7wWUQZ-ZOwFpfGZFtmK9Qzam4AT4GZOoTw-E5tNU-h5ocPHNmXFDboVquoQ4qvLc03w592eH9X5CmUR_CqjQrrCb9uwztbX8yQ_Zp0/s1600/CIMG3228.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675826078029456130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 402px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 301px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ts3fu4cMpiMqjzjPJzNTqG0XZdh2qxk09IeAp7wWUQZ-ZOwFpfGZFtmK9Qzam4AT4GZOoTw-E5tNU-h5ocPHNmXFDboVquoQ4qvLc03w592eH9X5CmUR_CqjQrrCb9uwztbX8yQ_Zp0/s320/CIMG3228.JPG" border="0" /></a>Look at that beautiful green!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu21f65Yx0wThT8TuSpZDIabU-3b67wzV8TuW6oIhX0nznSyr7YGuqo-L1ybA8rWVxmUt3yFgiAN-qz6rfOTBoHDcpRFa5cJS44BX9cxFvLYHY-RxHyB73i01DfpUIYxy06-zGW3HzBCs/s1600/CIMG3230.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675826084928101906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 465px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 348px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu21f65Yx0wThT8TuSpZDIabU-3b67wzV8TuW6oIhX0nznSyr7YGuqo-L1ybA8rWVxmUt3yFgiAN-qz6rfOTBoHDcpRFa5cJS44BX9cxFvLYHY-RxHyB73i01DfpUIYxy06-zGW3HzBCs/s320/CIMG3230.JPG" border="0" /></a>If you want to get real fancy, drizzle your cream over the top of each individual bowl. Classy.<br /><br />It only took about 0.25 seconds to go from THIS...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPdoe5Jsj5s_pJ6MYZWBvqHjiQA6tyZ_FKNrl6oNOMeG9DlNW_YXBAphqNppgmWF6K6opIS-II9OV6oXJD-bMnitNqhaKTIVP4mV8ftwZ_IGqZNoLLEltSB98gTeD5tOnH2V-gFg86d0/s1600/CIMG3238.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675826089472446866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 489px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 369px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPdoe5Jsj5s_pJ6MYZWBvqHjiQA6tyZ_FKNrl6oNOMeG9DlNW_YXBAphqNppgmWF6K6opIS-II9OV6oXJD-bMnitNqhaKTIVP4mV8ftwZ_IGqZNoLLEltSB98gTeD5tOnH2V-gFg86d0/s320/CIMG3238.JPG" border="0" /></a>To THIS!... mmmmmmmmmmmm<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9gVCOrJz1q1meL-rk1CVKe7sStNEszhOJm9cYmyk5HN0_bEvYpPnT-X3cA4hXgx0zwOwVUMivtzkViH5HC4KyndCX1KCZuFQtSsY2wiwKd1qDB_ofcUI4g-Ys1q4PRXut4gph8eOos4/s1600/CIMG3243.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675826440485692834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 479px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 374px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9gVCOrJz1q1meL-rk1CVKe7sStNEszhOJm9cYmyk5HN0_bEvYpPnT-X3cA4hXgx0zwOwVUMivtzkViH5HC4KyndCX1KCZuFQtSsY2wiwKd1qDB_ofcUI4g-Ys1q4PRXut4gph8eOos4/s320/CIMG3243.JPG" border="0" /></a>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-40042900750607666152011-11-16T07:04:00.003-07:002011-11-16T08:08:25.313-07:00Vegetarian Meatloaf<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBuumTsXun3L4-kaODtLZI1LiXOppU4mKCO0qFSAUw_oxZyCbawkhdGLaMJ14-GgPSBEO_IIOJOBOU4VWv3uOaqUPrzOeZk4B9XzbPNlvJqEDX58sCO491r2UG4aLch6mq0q9Nr_dCRw/s1600/CIMG3195.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 459px; height: 344px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBuumTsXun3L4-kaODtLZI1LiXOppU4mKCO0qFSAUw_oxZyCbawkhdGLaMJ14-GgPSBEO_IIOJOBOU4VWv3uOaqUPrzOeZk4B9XzbPNlvJqEDX58sCO491r2UG4aLch6mq0q9Nr_dCRw/s320/CIMG3195.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675595212052346722" border="0" /></a>Now before you go running for the hills thinking I've lost my marbles making a VEGETARIAN meatloaf, give me a minute to tell you how yummy this comfort food dinner is! Meatloaf is another one of those meals I didn't think I'd get to eat again after making the decision to not eat meat. But a few years ago, I came across this recipe claiming to taste a whole lot like meat loaf. Of course, I was really skeptical, but I decided I would give it a try. It surprisingly tasted quite a bit like that good ol' homecooked goodness that I grew up with.<br />Of course, it is also much more healthy than all that ground beef. This dish is full of lentils, and before you frown your nose at the idea of lentils ... for one, the taste combined with all the other flavors of this recipe, is really quite tasty. Secondly, lentils have the third-highest level of protein of any other plant-based food. Someone who bases their proteins on plant-based proteins would absolutely benefit from this protein laden dish! Health magazine also named lentils as one of the top 5 most healthiest foods as well.<br />Of course, the real test was whether or not the meat-eaters of the house would enjoy it. I'm very happy to say that Tiffani gave it a thumbs up! That's saying a lot for a rib and pulled pork lovin' kinda girl. As one who picks Famous Dave's as her birthday restaurant every year, I'm always impressed when I can satisfy her tastebuds with something as outlandish as a Veggie Meatloaf.<br />So without further ado, please open your minds, and check out this taaasty comforting main dish!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vegetarian "Meat"loaf<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span>2 cups water<br />1 teaspoon salt<br />1 cup lentils<br />1 small onion, diced<br />1 cup quick-cooking oats<br />3/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar, swiss, jack, american)<br />1 egg, beaten<br />4.5 ounces tomato sauce<br />1 teaspoon garlic salt<br />1 teaspoon dried basil<br />1/4 teaspoon black pepper<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju_Trp3ejwJ6IeUXQ7vB2kojxwDvftKSmqkZLHFAWwpwoyHUSFqVuYmuXElF8PGI2R59wFykVRRle12jVhAZOrBppXitf7KYwFowD8R3lpGp_R95mAQu8KjqkLHfiDHYOzirft55matBo/s1600/CIMG3180.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 523px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju_Trp3ejwJ6IeUXQ7vB2kojxwDvftKSmqkZLHFAWwpwoyHUSFqVuYmuXElF8PGI2R59wFykVRRle12jVhAZOrBppXitf7KYwFowD8R3lpGp_R95mAQu8KjqkLHfiDHYOzirft55matBo/s320/CIMG3180.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675595193721595634" border="0" /></a>Add salt to water and boil in a saucepan. Add lentils and <span style="font-style: italic;">simmer</span> covered 25-30 minutes, until lentils are soft and most of the water is evaporated. I accentuated simmer because this is very important. I learned the hard way that if you continue a rolling boil on your lentils, your water will all evaporate within 15 minutes, and if you're not watching closely, you'll burn everything and scorch your pan.... don't ask how i know that..... Lesson of the story is, SIMMA those lentils! Check frequently to make sure your water hasn't evaporated out before their done.<br />Anyway, so now you remove from the heat, drain and partially mash lentils. Scrape into mixing bowl and allow to cool slightly.<br /><br />Stir in onion, oats, and cheese until mixed. In my opinion, getting your hands in their is the best way to get everything mixed up well.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyxEXok3lALyf4Bswl-8KpZhswShMr_HXbAKxKllwun-_4aKGv9KeydJu92DgiLLz04oHyKYif238CvoI_Zcl06as_L4x47qZNbcMCHvqdaxax7cNSEbIrN-B0Qp-hFJbLiDIfmijI5QY/s1600/CIMG3191.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 470px; height: 352px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyxEXok3lALyf4Bswl-8KpZhswShMr_HXbAKxKllwun-_4aKGv9KeydJu92DgiLLz04oHyKYif238CvoI_Zcl06as_L4x47qZNbcMCHvqdaxax7cNSEbIrN-B0Qp-hFJbLiDIfmijI5QY/s320/CIMG3191.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675595207318163490" border="0" /></a>Add egg, tomato sauce, garlic, basil, and pepper. Mix well - again, wash your hands, take off your rings, and get in there!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikl5xUHFHf5FpHwUQKpCy3w8UZVYOzyUPP_Ni0wMS5Cg5mQeuhcPsGqSK0HqXHklkOpJwp-9_esY3cUs5-5dgPo3PZ570H1MUlwT3nM14QTot0-E-Fhf06fIui17uFhNMqF3JAQu4DtG4/s1600/CIMG3186.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 496px; height: 371px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikl5xUHFHf5FpHwUQKpCy3w8UZVYOzyUPP_Ni0wMS5Cg5mQeuhcPsGqSK0HqXHklkOpJwp-9_esY3cUs5-5dgPo3PZ570H1MUlwT3nM14QTot0-E-Fhf06fIui17uFhNMqF3JAQu4DtG4/s320/CIMG3186.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675595195986717218" border="0" /></a>Spoon into a loaf pan that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Smooth top with back of spoon and bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes until top of loaf is dry, firm, and golden brown.<br />Coo in pan on rack for about 10 minutes. Run a sharp knife around the edges of pan then turn out loaf onto serving platter.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS8-6ThhK-O97cZVaPHeLzo1y68tRXgzkNFoBKUP6I8vev2gWZH7Whw4IpBGWyVpXpakWu5MZQV4P4U3ZYLucDENkHiqRsD6GoViYEE8nRg_AdUR0m1dpxPyR9qRJO3fvcSMbq7yufqLw/s1600/CIMG3200.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 482px; height: 642px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS8-6ThhK-O97cZVaPHeLzo1y68tRXgzkNFoBKUP6I8vev2gWZH7Whw4IpBGWyVpXpakWu5MZQV4P4U3ZYLucDENkHiqRsD6GoViYEE8nRg_AdUR0m1dpxPyR9qRJO3fvcSMbq7yufqLw/s320/CIMG3200.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675595218791738674" border="0" /></a><br />I served this up with some yummy smashed potatoes and rolls. Oh yummy in my belly! Comfort food at it's best. Please give this a try and let me know what you think. I promise you won't be disappointed.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS8-6ThhK-O97cZVaPHeLzo1y68tRXgzkNFoBKUP6I8vev2gWZH7Whw4IpBGWyVpXpakWu5MZQV4P4U3ZYLucDENkHiqRsD6GoViYEE8nRg_AdUR0m1dpxPyR9qRJO3fvcSMbq7yufqLw/s1600/CIMG3200.JPG"><br /></a>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-30295336325486913072011-11-13T17:23:00.003-07:002011-11-13T17:30:01.381-07:00Once There Was a Snowman...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS1FJceT8Zp8LKN6bmVDG3jA0LvNI-PQn-AyXAqtu7DvysA_GUpLoa2sAzYUER4-e6LIXGvoDPouigjqwtWES0a5kTYybNqen7IPgxIV0dr1j4W982m3Kyxe-3xJIM-Z3pu1eEYJIxz5M/s1600/CIMG3131.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10v_kuuIMe30OWTec0Me0raIqPLAOslSOD8ap4YdX7Keebl2bMXi6_pRtdMFkhd3pMSQ4G8sd7jMFPDX5EtgJdX8PtU71Hqqe5zix0sWC4OlEGgVewHFTF5ySp2tmoMgNmya3RbfXCGA/s1600/CIMG3132.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 361px; height: 481px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10v_kuuIMe30OWTec0Me0raIqPLAOslSOD8ap4YdX7Keebl2bMXi6_pRtdMFkhd3pMSQ4G8sd7jMFPDX5EtgJdX8PtU71Hqqe5zix0sWC4OlEGgVewHFTF5ySp2tmoMgNmya3RbfXCGA/s320/CIMG3132.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674640677123382930" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS1FJceT8Zp8LKN6bmVDG3jA0LvNI-PQn-AyXAqtu7DvysA_GUpLoa2sAzYUER4-e6LIXGvoDPouigjqwtWES0a5kTYybNqen7IPgxIV0dr1j4W982m3Kyxe-3xJIM-Z3pu1eEYJIxz5M/s1600/CIMG3131.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 373px; height: 497px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS1FJceT8Zp8LKN6bmVDG3jA0LvNI-PQn-AyXAqtu7DvysA_GUpLoa2sAzYUER4-e6LIXGvoDPouigjqwtWES0a5kTYybNqen7IPgxIV0dr1j4W982m3Kyxe-3xJIM-Z3pu1eEYJIxz5M/s320/CIMG3131.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674640672189271698" border="0" /></a>Aren't these guys <span style="font-style: italic;">so </span>adorable?? Don't they look like I bought them? Let me just tell you... these are so fun to make! I made them as a birthday gift to my mom. She has a huge snowman collection, and I thought these guys would fit right in! There's a great blog out there, <a href="http://thenshemade.blogspot.com/2011/01/sock-snowmen.html">Then She Made</a>, which is where I got the idea. She's got so many other cute ideas... check her out!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-21820290778921469732011-11-13T17:18:00.002-07:002011-11-13T17:23:18.355-07:00T-Shirt Scarves<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovbNJTMYlhj8Ul3kkwkO5tBL15HDn3rhA1RLGmD4xgfy-svWLxeISoPK9UN9-GtAZL36zmc8BOpwcWmQR1dM4lPWTZB6ojW9J49DofN-ICZ9X30wyohEoYswdEfU1bb-hcRAw-nPsPrE/s1600/CIMG3177.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 345px; height: 460px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovbNJTMYlhj8Ul3kkwkO5tBL15HDn3rhA1RLGmD4xgfy-svWLxeISoPK9UN9-GtAZL36zmc8BOpwcWmQR1dM4lPWTZB6ojW9J49DofN-ICZ9X30wyohEoYswdEfU1bb-hcRAw-nPsPrE/s320/CIMG3177.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674639428642786706" border="0" /></a>I'm so excited to share this awesome t-shirt scarf I made over the weekend. It was my first sewing machine creation in about 15 years. I'd say for a first try, it turned out pretty cute! Head over to <a href="http://myblessedlife.net/2011/10/t-shirt-scarf-tutorial.html">My Blessed Life</a> for tutorials on a bunch of fun and cute scarves. Just an FYI, my scarf cost me a total of $2! Picked up a t-shirt from a local thrift store and I was good to go... really can't beat that!Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-53242953489715814302011-11-13T11:14:00.004-07:002011-11-13T12:28:24.887-07:00Sunday Morning Cinnamon Scones<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uaym3h7N2LgmpiE-jHPWQVPDXVFZCElBgLk86xxjjPLsf32M_izYWfblFVhhHjX-dwkD-HpOcscdDdTJ0bzjnydWNc3NaiEFc20a-xKB8SvsPDwI880TiWRSQ0xKq2f2-EC0xYBReQ8/s1600/CIMG3169.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 521px; height: 390px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uaym3h7N2LgmpiE-jHPWQVPDXVFZCElBgLk86xxjjPLsf32M_izYWfblFVhhHjX-dwkD-HpOcscdDdTJ0bzjnydWNc3NaiEFc20a-xKB8SvsPDwI880TiWRSQ0xKq2f2-EC0xYBReQ8/s320/CIMG3169.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674551113585315266" border="0" /></a>I woke up this morning knowing that I wanted to bake something. I just wasn't sure what that something was going to be. The options were - pumpkin muffins. pumpkin waffles. pumpkin cookies. but ok, I've got to show you guys that I can do so much more than pumpkin! I just started this cooking thing at the height of the pumpkin season. But I resisted the urge to open yet another can of pumpkin puree and instead, was on the hunt for a yummy scone recipe. I've made pumpkin scones for the last couple years for the Wife's birthday, and they've always been a hit. The flakey-ness that's just oh so yummy to dip into your coffee... or hot chocolate.. what have you. Or you could smother it with some icing for that added kick of sweet. For me though, the icing is just a little too over-the-top. These cinnamon scones are the perfect amount of sugary, buttery goodness. On top of that, they are so simple to make! <br />I'm not much of a breakfast kind of girl, but give me a pastry to go with my 20 cups of coffee, and I am thrilled! Muffins, scones, donuts, sweet bread... ooooh yes! On our honeymoon, that is what just about every breakfast consisted of. A yummy breakfast goody and coffee from some local shop. Oh man, I miss Seattle!<br />Anyway, let me just show you how easy this is for you to whip up! **so easy that I even let the wifey help me.... she's gonna kill me if she ever reads that**<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday Morning Cinnamon Scones</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">adapted from <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/2011/01/glazed-cinnamon-scones-recipe.html">Money Saving Mom</a></span><br /><br />Ingredients<br />2 cups flour<br />2 teaspoons baking powder<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />1/2 cup butter<br />1 egg separated<br />3 Tablespoons honey<br />1/3 cup buttermilk (or 1/3 cup milk mixed with 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice)<br />1-2 Tablespoons sugar<br />1/2 teaspoon cinnamon<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPVjSNojNfT0DlkhM8dQ0WgkAr3p_4C8i7jt-Gr1JEQB5RirMoF7uwVcPxzGkvmajqtd_bGjP5km-5_T-_StcWN1QusCfIpCUtbdpodlU5UUQSl68WFPGhjPU-y8FAoW9NeTn0wEiCCk/s1600/CIMG3133.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 522px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPVjSNojNfT0DlkhM8dQ0WgkAr3p_4C8i7jt-Gr1JEQB5RirMoF7uwVcPxzGkvmajqtd_bGjP5km-5_T-_StcWN1QusCfIpCUtbdpodlU5UUQSl68WFPGhjPU-y8FAoW9NeTn0wEiCCk/s320/CIMG3133.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550391314405794" border="0" /></a><br />Preheat oven to 400 degrees.<br />Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBac1c_TsqXaNoKJUi7viGtvoEE_A9WS2mbRQmLI0DdmEJHOVOB3bv4zgAwotDpKdNC4oo2mXpot7dbC1WfLM6vySYyd4NsAKgWaizsWiJPic9YggIMbrNbL3tLltLFDZ691oO3iuXFc/s1600/CIMG3136.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 494px; height: 370px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBac1c_TsqXaNoKJUi7viGtvoEE_A9WS2mbRQmLI0DdmEJHOVOB3bv4zgAwotDpKdNC4oo2mXpot7dbC1WfLM6vySYyd4NsAKgWaizsWiJPic9YggIMbrNbL3tLltLFDZ691oO3iuXFc/s320/CIMG3136.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550399592862850" border="0" /></a>Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly, using a pastry blender. You should have little pea-size balls throughout this mixture.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBu8z64_6myhKih2z_Tlt8AFuPYTxhqOjrdmD0kAYPRGGBV-iK6JSnBVjKxay-9op7MEEowhTJ3aiyzQB3XzZO4cHb0jWeyjSe3ocmkO8X1vRu_QrF32msM2j8OJgfCatXkuJpZVPLnrM/s1600/CIMG3140.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 522px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBu8z64_6myhKih2z_Tlt8AFuPYTxhqOjrdmD0kAYPRGGBV-iK6JSnBVjKxay-9op7MEEowhTJ3aiyzQB3XzZO4cHb0jWeyjSe3ocmkO8X1vRu_QrF32msM2j8OJgfCatXkuJpZVPLnrM/s320/CIMG3140.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550406758133522" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh9EHb9m_KJaI6cql6X2nCnZ47GIIVAt42h51JoO9CSF6FamXmdWYSABEAvJmVdFeWoM03ZVnnQY8EaY7hZ_IxN54iFVAqf6lyUSDplpUh3mOCQKhfYbjlAlWJXuIcOSz12__iG8_5Ofs/s1600/CIMG3143.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 525px; height: 393px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh9EHb9m_KJaI6cql6X2nCnZ47GIIVAt42h51JoO9CSF6FamXmdWYSABEAvJmVdFeWoM03ZVnnQY8EaY7hZ_IxN54iFVAqf6lyUSDplpUh3mOCQKhfYbjlAlWJXuIcOSz12__iG8_5Ofs/s320/CIMG3143.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550415094033010" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVAr0vuF7w5JiszdASD7OOaKtLRomZC6yUjggDiTL-Bi0i-QpFstEuYW3fCRXpSQTJN0Raj-zsjEIT55ZX0Td4dPCE_W_007SfM1gdAGIFQKxU04zFY-fiLF12gGQNKk9YOb24nBm8lQ/s1600/CIMG3147.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 524px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVAr0vuF7w5JiszdASD7OOaKtLRomZC6yUjggDiTL-Bi0i-QpFstEuYW3fCRXpSQTJN0Raj-zsjEIT55ZX0Td4dPCE_W_007SfM1gdAGIFQKxU04zFY-fiLF12gGQNKk9YOb24nBm8lQ/s320/CIMG3147.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550425932294594" border="0" /></a>Separate the egg white and the yolk. Set the egg white aside. <br />In a separate bowl, mix together the egg yolk, honey, and buttermilk (or the milk/lemon juice mixture). Add to the dry mixture and mix until <span style="font-style: italic;">just</span> combined. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzxbRsEs4cwrGBkngqY-YI5dKKZbe8kqd2LHj73ZFFROfehL6pSUwAFDiceN_-xemfMXWKpkfeJNCLOMCxLIlXgtGinsVpsh7pYeWfHgUTLEJQOSVIbdRSxlccRCFIgaMUPM_RvKVzNw/s1600/CIMG3151.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 526px; height: 394px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzxbRsEs4cwrGBkngqY-YI5dKKZbe8kqd2LHj73ZFFROfehL6pSUwAFDiceN_-xemfMXWKpkfeJNCLOMCxLIlXgtGinsVpsh7pYeWfHgUTLEJQOSVIbdRSxlccRCFIgaMUPM_RvKVzNw/s320/CIMG3151.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550841168708066" border="0" /></a>You don't want to work it too much or it won't turn out quite as flaky. You don't want a cookie batter consistency. Just barely mixed.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzrhxvQBM0ejUqpsJxsm8e4LMeNBUz8CXBCjtVVrfOKFctc3fqyXUodRoyJSjClGkqVUoUkxKJNUi05uI2Lfap5OL6FI1lvX452ZsZfS_jIeyMi3boyI6ZDpJQMsWV2MUIIiG5ZWHtOzY/s1600/CIMG3154.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 509px; height: 381px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzrhxvQBM0ejUqpsJxsm8e4LMeNBUz8CXBCjtVVrfOKFctc3fqyXUodRoyJSjClGkqVUoUkxKJNUi05uI2Lfap5OL6FI1lvX452ZsZfS_jIeyMi3boyI6ZDpJQMsWV2MUIIiG5ZWHtOzY/s320/CIMG3154.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550853225635794" border="0" /></a>Form dough into a ball on a floured surface.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oet9ij2dbEXd9fR7xJd2zG9wu3g2NY26bW_FfX-6tlSkNSMkXjCbq-HH6mQVmwa3UDzPmlfK-NAixD6BgPObGOHOwjR9plDdVg5x5zUYGRW6mUPJeHyejluAJ8kR9Hbe-gfKTPnCJLM/s1600/CIMG3159.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 523px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oet9ij2dbEXd9fR7xJd2zG9wu3g2NY26bW_FfX-6tlSkNSMkXjCbq-HH6mQVmwa3UDzPmlfK-NAixD6BgPObGOHOwjR9plDdVg5x5zUYGRW6mUPJeHyejluAJ8kR9Hbe-gfKTPnCJLM/s320/CIMG3159.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550843962647842" border="0" /></a>Roll or pat out to half an inch in thickness and eight inches in diameter. Cut into eight equally-sized pieces.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgrnjgIrx8Wl-10_XxL872KWiUk_crY4vUKnxHObuPVvLjLLL2dLNEAVjh25q-drMARLiB3JjBVVpUbNbak-kB0bxkp5pDuTgLjAli62D2zvMKcqnXBmcINOyEnFtH8QnRkew8dO25aw/s1600/CIMG3160.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 523px; height: 356px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgrnjgIrx8Wl-10_XxL872KWiUk_crY4vUKnxHObuPVvLjLLL2dLNEAVjh25q-drMARLiB3JjBVVpUbNbak-kB0bxkp5pDuTgLjAli62D2zvMKcqnXBmcINOyEnFtH8QnRkew8dO25aw/s320/CIMG3160.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550862094295762" border="0" /></a>Transfer to a greased baking sheet. Whisk the egg white until froth forms and brush over the tops of scones. Mix sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle over egg-white-topped scones.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVg_VJs_Y2Km66ZND6XDX1-ujkdJ9_VLDfvzW3GMEkH97cx-kdzhIp4prNTHXw3Bc4SQp3QXOWB431AAghcqgaGP4qOUMqxh5zcLMgRLweq0xhhEYTI-TUYFYtqxnekpmLmQGFZomX-I/s1600/CIMG3162.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 524px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVg_VJs_Y2Km66ZND6XDX1-ujkdJ9_VLDfvzW3GMEkH97cx-kdzhIp4prNTHXw3Bc4SQp3QXOWB431AAghcqgaGP4qOUMqxh5zcLMgRLweq0xhhEYTI-TUYFYtqxnekpmLmQGFZomX-I/s320/CIMG3162.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674550867436997266" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ChSpNmRKlufY9ASYW21NGFeVKhZYSBP83oQky2c8EXH3LjnK9MP7LyBjrKhsBs3cP0ZPjh13Kg_g_qNyFVnrB30cPX77V7ueKhlN2G7MxxF6CSeQquFCb3rHAkeHgTxkEDxFF02DtL4/s1600/CIMG3168.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 527px; height: 395px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ChSpNmRKlufY9ASYW21NGFeVKhZYSBP83oQky2c8EXH3LjnK9MP7LyBjrKhsBs3cP0ZPjh13Kg_g_qNyFVnrB30cPX77V7ueKhlN2G7MxxF6CSeQquFCb3rHAkeHgTxkEDxFF02DtL4/s320/CIMG3168.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674551104460708578" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQucETf__iobBKPEYAklJEKGkJBYsBJTreMVz55HSEBlkGWNFiG9TvFfAB_aTGl0ty74UfGtiHKO4xTRDC2Hnn4awuwdT3He2GcEY96vPvFX8HWVdREqUsqiHxoFKi0iqDYRBuExvlRA/s1600/CIMG3164.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 522px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQucETf__iobBKPEYAklJEKGkJBYsBJTreMVz55HSEBlkGWNFiG9TvFfAB_aTGl0ty74UfGtiHKO4xTRDC2Hnn4awuwdT3He2GcEY96vPvFX8HWVdREqUsqiHxoFKi0iqDYRBuExvlRA/s320/CIMG3164.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674551100996647602" border="0" /></a>Bake at 400 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQI30NRM8Ag13UHDiUBEnd1eugeVwFyp8L6FxzwTom_xZ_AIp7nmSZV8epT6mEn_JTDApIG4flhyDee-rl1vx0-DzwCJ8IWR0pQTAi8NC5cHq2d_unLJIm3lylYQA_8IkqyPW491zbRNI/s1600/CIMG3172.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 524px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQI30NRM8Ag13UHDiUBEnd1eugeVwFyp8L6FxzwTom_xZ_AIp7nmSZV8epT6mEn_JTDApIG4flhyDee-rl1vx0-DzwCJ8IWR0pQTAi8NC5cHq2d_unLJIm3lylYQA_8IkqyPW491zbRNI/s320/CIMG3172.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674551119912169138" border="0" /></a>Enjoy with a hot cuppa whatever you like. For us, it will be coffee! What a GREAT way to start your lazy Sunday!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgrnjgIrx8Wl-10_XxL872KWiUk_crY4vUKnxHObuPVvLjLLL2dLNEAVjh25q-drMARLiB3JjBVVpUbNbak-kB0bxkp5pDuTgLjAli62D2zvMKcqnXBmcINOyEnFtH8QnRkew8dO25aw/s1600/CIMG3160.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzrhxvQBM0ejUqpsJxsm8e4LMeNBUz8CXBCjtVVrfOKFctc3fqyXUodRoyJSjClGkqVUoUkxKJNUi05uI2Lfap5OL6FI1lvX452ZsZfS_jIeyMi3boyI6ZDpJQMsWV2MUIIiG5ZWHtOzY/s1600/CIMG3154.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oet9ij2dbEXd9fR7xJd2zG9wu3g2NY26bW_FfX-6tlSkNSMkXjCbq-HH6mQVmwa3UDzPmlfK-NAixD6BgPObGOHOwjR9plDdVg5x5zUYGRW6mUPJeHyejluAJ8kR9Hbe-gfKTPnCJLM/s1600/CIMG3159.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzxbRsEs4cwrGBkngqY-YI5dKKZbe8kqd2LHj73ZFFROfehL6pSUwAFDiceN_-xemfMXWKpkfeJNCLOMCxLIlXgtGinsVpsh7pYeWfHgUTLEJQOSVIbdRSxlccRCFIgaMUPM_RvKVzNw/s1600/CIMG3151.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVg_VJs_Y2Km66ZND6XDX1-ujkdJ9_VLDfvzW3GMEkH97cx-kdzhIp4prNTHXw3Bc4SQp3QXOWB431AAghcqgaGP4qOUMqxh5zcLMgRLweq0xhhEYTI-TUYFYtqxnekpmLmQGFZomX-I/s1600/CIMG3162.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh9EHb9m_KJaI6cql6X2nCnZ47GIIVAt42h51JoO9CSF6FamXmdWYSABEAvJmVdFeWoM03ZVnnQY8EaY7hZ_IxN54iFVAqf6lyUSDplpUh3mOCQKhfYbjlAlWJXuIcOSz12__iG8_5Ofs/s1600/CIMG3143.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBu8z64_6myhKih2z_Tlt8AFuPYTxhqOjrdmD0kAYPRGGBV-iK6JSnBVjKxay-9op7MEEowhTJ3aiyzQB3XzZO4cHb0jWeyjSe3ocmkO8X1vRu_QrF32msM2j8OJgfCatXkuJpZVPLnrM/s1600/CIMG3140.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBac1c_TsqXaNoKJUi7viGtvoEE_A9WS2mbRQmLI0DdmEJHOVOB3bv4zgAwotDpKdNC4oo2mXpot7dbC1WfLM6vySYyd4NsAKgWaizsWiJPic9YggIMbrNbL3tLltLFDZ691oO3iuXFc/s1600/CIMG3136.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPVjSNojNfT0DlkhM8dQ0WgkAr3p_4C8i7jt-Gr1JEQB5RirMoF7uwVcPxzGkvmajqtd_bGjP5km-5_T-_StcWN1QusCfIpCUtbdpodlU5UUQSl68WFPGhjPU-y8FAoW9NeTn0wEiCCk/s1600/CIMG3133.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVAr0vuF7w5JiszdASD7OOaKtLRomZC6yUjggDiTL-Bi0i-QpFstEuYW3fCRXpSQTJN0Raj-zsjEIT55ZX0Td4dPCE_W_007SfM1gdAGIFQKxU04zFY-fiLF12gGQNKk9YOb24nBm8lQ/s1600/CIMG3147.JPG"><br /></a>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-28691726163129510932011-11-12T10:14:00.010-07:002011-11-12T11:14:54.948-07:00Family Movie Theme Night - Cars 2<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWHZ4Ai1sazf5H8ElOCoPJsob7R05CDjz_DB_KyDxgYOWS2PRVjJ2bEOEuCoPVqitFxxuZhIauVzeswl1ZvevV4xXWzDyqXdIWIWOf5DILsMARhe74qoruNAK1FYlkoL35RWWTct0I1A/s1600/Cars2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 477px; height: 473px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWHZ4Ai1sazf5H8ElOCoPJsob7R05CDjz_DB_KyDxgYOWS2PRVjJ2bEOEuCoPVqitFxxuZhIauVzeswl1ZvevV4xXWzDyqXdIWIWOf5DILsMARhe74qoruNAK1FYlkoL35RWWTct0I1A/s320/Cars2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674172818934517362" border="0" /></a><br />I'm so excited to tell you how fun my night with my little family was last night! Beware.. Super picture-heavy! Around here, we love Friday night movie nights. We pick up candy and treats, rent a movie, and veg out for the night. But you know what? Sometimes it's just the same ole' every time. Does your family ever get in a rut of what fun things to do at home? I know we do!<br />Yesterday at work, I was feeling like we needed a pick-me-up from the regular movie night at home. It didn't take much either! Cars 2 was the theme for the night, and let me just tell you what was on the menu.<br />We had some yummy "Mack's Mac-n-Cheese"<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8iDht9hP1uPveUGpPtDGsBobwk1SEycuDiD2I1mBSo6-6sxepC62k1k5yoDHAaAdly95-_YVsluisJN4syKOZeDcLZcJUYfDPuag7ZlP9_sajYj30kJD4MoslVo8H2HLBgt-GY1RqHY/s1600/CIMG3092.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 510px; height: 382px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8iDht9hP1uPveUGpPtDGsBobwk1SEycuDiD2I1mBSo6-6sxepC62k1k5yoDHAaAdly95-_YVsluisJN4syKOZeDcLZcJUYfDPuag7ZlP9_sajYj30kJD4MoslVo8H2HLBgt-GY1RqHY/s320/CIMG3092.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674163649633766002" border="0" /></a>"Tow-Mater Taters"<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz6TR0fHvBs6jNEtIHaudb0QM504Ih_44mqAx_dy3sg6GU-6cpHXKbxjlaLrJB-BimihF3CHMY6OyRQN9XLS_TMXucjg6xuxBfvtORr3kWZ2GrzBTZ0D7Zy_woy0AOnmOqAnpndZyTRrQ/s1600/CIMG3088.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 523px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz6TR0fHvBs6jNEtIHaudb0QM504Ih_44mqAx_dy3sg6GU-6cpHXKbxjlaLrJB-BimihF3CHMY6OyRQN9XLS_TMXucjg6xuxBfvtORr3kWZ2GrzBTZ0D7Zy_woy0AOnmOqAnpndZyTRrQ/s320/CIMG3088.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674163654670715234" border="0" /></a>"Dip-Sticks"<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_1XFCpZbsznWiLS47uxNnS8RY2pv6J6xievhfVZKyw_d4H7Ojyp5MxapoQfNYqCAN3bmTwIiYuy4sA73h6LLdcO8GJjgt6Oz26XolGAhj7jkAZh03uR8gTUyozwyD9-ZQMyK6gHtA4jM/s1600/CIMG3084.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 523px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_1XFCpZbsznWiLS47uxNnS8RY2pv6J6xievhfVZKyw_d4H7Ojyp5MxapoQfNYqCAN3bmTwIiYuy4sA73h6LLdcO8GJjgt6Oz26XolGAhj7jkAZh03uR8gTUyozwyD9-ZQMyK6gHtA4jM/s320/CIMG3084.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674163660829324978" border="0" /></a>And of course, we had to wash it down with some "Fuel!"<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbGMj9pnYRj0IFK8v0iSB4sDBxZB8y2lvWHKgtzOE8m5-UHM8E2_fYED4TRDc9bcxT3fgaQA1ux1G5xdJLz32FdIR4YpUWOLYvL6KqNRMnTwvHKxXBoZbcSboByIwRJ0dt-gEEmN-wqs/s1600/CIMG3091.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 454px; height: 605px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbGMj9pnYRj0IFK8v0iSB4sDBxZB8y2lvWHKgtzOE8m5-UHM8E2_fYED4TRDc9bcxT3fgaQA1ux1G5xdJLz32FdIR4YpUWOLYvL6KqNRMnTwvHKxXBoZbcSboByIwRJ0dt-gEEmN-wqs/s320/CIMG3091.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674163669812958258" border="0" /></a><br />Something so simple as adding labels and fun movie themed titles for your food makes <span style="font-style: italic;">such</span> a difference to your boring movie night. It was fun letting Xander figure out which movie we were watching from the foods we were eating. Pretty sure it was the Tow-Mater Taters that gave it away.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNh0JVIagTH0jrat8zXTE2uYAgbsHne0QHgE_agsVp1WDQYstuszUD6edp9dSSTw8GkXCjUhrim6e8jA7u7nK_ttQ7796p-7vF41Q1YHibURjMrl5mQvLKKXslQTuHIgfGbv1jfAZUuA/s1600/CIMG3093.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 434px; height: 536px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNh0JVIagTH0jrat8zXTE2uYAgbsHne0QHgE_agsVp1WDQYstuszUD6edp9dSSTw8GkXCjUhrim6e8jA7u7nK_ttQ7796p-7vF41Q1YHibURjMrl5mQvLKKXslQTuHIgfGbv1jfAZUuA/s320/CIMG3093.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674163672546608242" border="0" /></a>After our simple, but yummy, dinner, I had a little activity planned. Going along with the Cars theme, I found a template online for a blank license plate, and we all created our own vanity plates. No rules at all - just be creative and use your imagination.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdN_1d0f50OnWyAY2Ld4g8pfl3hI1DryeGXBKPHFrIG1itxwr4ZLOxUBB4IRxzTopDlYun2EVvwHuOSQ7O30BByNQSZ7OTunm1xbEQnGtoWhIApQrS8EvXh-vzfLyseEmifHx0AWnhDg/s1600/CIMG3105.JPG"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgQYczu0Z2_cXUzjNB3fZVpSx5QILiOKn-iuCGWk1zEsztMPBzr9Wr3uRcFy7Q_pmYsSlw2V-edHmdzxTkBzoWtiLDJFxffvgb6ABySiUtmLmsNuL5j3VwYxP6buHtPQNDvaVNXhPfXw/s1600/CIMG3104.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 525px; height: 393px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgQYczu0Z2_cXUzjNB3fZVpSx5QILiOKn-iuCGWk1zEsztMPBzr9Wr3uRcFy7Q_pmYsSlw2V-edHmdzxTkBzoWtiLDJFxffvgb6ABySiUtmLmsNuL5j3VwYxP6buHtPQNDvaVNXhPfXw/s320/CIMG3104.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674168228520106146" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTJtMEdqOAhFi2O0_l6dDngAd4i1-IPBPXAWnZpK3WjD7q4OFeaz5-f5-Es9oZNSpwTs-EENcrotVpittqMosouu5pBzU5O1Q7hxBCpUlvWg73scF9bZuaojhu_Rgi9teodYJ0iWljQc/s1600/CIMG3106.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 527px; height: 395px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTJtMEdqOAhFi2O0_l6dDngAd4i1-IPBPXAWnZpK3WjD7q4OFeaz5-f5-Es9oZNSpwTs-EENcrotVpittqMosouu5pBzU5O1Q7hxBCpUlvWg73scF9bZuaojhu_Rgi9teodYJ0iWljQc/s320/CIMG3106.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674168232322040466" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvDVbH60TNmkTi89Eeb2CahOwB_Ro6xLBDNKNx4iNp9RPa5PLd42iZZ6yg-VrRL15e9gxLcNnSO1PthBaWB2DHuAdMQVEalk-llUAl8cU3VhbsFmwld8gHl4BLfwUgho2DE1XbfVzW4w/s1600/CIMG3108.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 498px; height: 373px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvDVbH60TNmkTi89Eeb2CahOwB_Ro6xLBDNKNx4iNp9RPa5PLd42iZZ6yg-VrRL15e9gxLcNnSO1PthBaWB2DHuAdMQVEalk-llUAl8cU3VhbsFmwld8gHl4BLfwUgho2DE1XbfVzW4w/s320/CIMG3108.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674168387779803074" border="0" /></a>My favorite part of Xander's plate is where he wrote "Hole <3 Xander." He said, "Look! It says Holly loves Xander." Oh how I love kids and their phonetic spelling!<br />I wasn't nearly as creative with my #1 Mama plate. And as you can see, I'm not nearly as talented with my drawing as I am with my kitchen skills. My drawing could probably pass as a 1st grader's creation.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qXEXviFl2mryEzWgQRm49677l_mUv7Qcz8lNDgr76BBtZrlxXP720ToS-3eJfn0ObpCVNLkIFi16nshQ__nqJ9gkkj-L3pKVpnpjI5SGnODYLZdvt9bD-f0cQhEaNmLoeAPPXKfFNdg/s1600/CIMG3109.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 499px; height: 374px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qXEXviFl2mryEzWgQRm49677l_mUv7Qcz8lNDgr76BBtZrlxXP720ToS-3eJfn0ObpCVNLkIFi16nshQ__nqJ9gkkj-L3pKVpnpjI5SGnODYLZdvt9bD-f0cQhEaNmLoeAPPXKfFNdg/s320/CIMG3109.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674168248679475810" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ezzZcEBmA80-RBkG_TA6QyfzYXfw2kT0LpSDS9kjKSoiBiUQD7sB2juqe4pmrdiyCnL_62clY0jXMUdgAYoA0V8s92IzQ4t6BVLcX36GSui0whGvw6CS6cSCehkXsPEwkSm2xLuOSMo/s1600/CIMG3103.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 309px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ezzZcEBmA80-RBkG_TA6QyfzYXfw2kT0LpSDS9kjKSoiBiUQD7sB2juqe4pmrdiyCnL_62clY0jXMUdgAYoA0V8s92IzQ4t6BVLcX36GSui0whGvw6CS6cSCehkXsPEwkSm2xLuOSMo/s320/CIMG3103.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674173833398614162" border="0" /></a>I wasn't sure if Tiffani would be up for the little artsy project, but you know, she did just fine coming up with something fun. Just see for yourself.....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1cE7aZdUWHeB4vbPb_Boxb2NaZjqoq7ZeGG2hofDKZMSnBNEdiYdgZv1IWX0EFJswxPsczZXc5vfhGwTPCwXLZ6pEW3fzOXH02Airv5HjoPcKcqZ4x3bXj6ZCGexmQC33zHFWnqa4IU/s1600/CIMG3111.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 478px; height: 358px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1cE7aZdUWHeB4vbPb_Boxb2NaZjqoq7ZeGG2hofDKZMSnBNEdiYdgZv1IWX0EFJswxPsczZXc5vfhGwTPCwXLZ6pEW3fzOXH02Airv5HjoPcKcqZ4x3bXj6ZCGexmQC33zHFWnqa4IU/s320/CIMG3111.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674168243543994194" border="0" /></a>Either you get it or you don't.... Not going into explanations... I, personally, love her creativity HA!<br /><br />Anyway - so after our craft, I made us a big bed on the family room floor with lots of pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals. We watched the first half of Cars 2 and then had an "Ice Cream Pit Stop!" (Thanks Sarah for the idea!)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8oBn55p3BvcL1qGocNr5Pzi7-hGKplyQdHwRM5wfn53xkMBplOiyalWvdOnaQHW0VjntnlBthTeUQIqCOKzw0JvRuNo-hnfuwm8CCaLhmNlf1CL5aj7uLnZs-lMyOZvB67sRbfVsrFjA/s1600/CIMG3118.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 523px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8oBn55p3BvcL1qGocNr5Pzi7-hGKplyQdHwRM5wfn53xkMBplOiyalWvdOnaQHW0VjntnlBthTeUQIqCOKzw0JvRuNo-hnfuwm8CCaLhmNlf1CL5aj7uLnZs-lMyOZvB67sRbfVsrFjA/s320/CIMG3118.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674170690005808530" border="0" /></a><br />One top of our Cookies and Cream, we had some "paint chips" and "gravel and sand".<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bIr-MhH7SWRyWRkqyjNjJVIClH5SdOekhky9klhyfgW5lNRol8DMTitwZb3HLXU9b7SqGnF_tgERa_a5V1CNHgut_ZmEcTU1caF0j-9mKI1H9o3MQPkfOK4nWJxngaLFSa2v3Gm4YOM/s1600/CIMG3120.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 513px; height: 384px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bIr-MhH7SWRyWRkqyjNjJVIClH5SdOekhky9klhyfgW5lNRol8DMTitwZb3HLXU9b7SqGnF_tgERa_a5V1CNHgut_ZmEcTU1caF0j-9mKI1H9o3MQPkfOK4nWJxngaLFSa2v3Gm4YOM/s320/CIMG3120.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674170693286146098" border="0" /></a>Of course, no pit stop would be complete without some "Hot Tar!"<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHYI2s5qHp5n37co9qYvu2_3AVPh6xgpul2KTkMDeX09aBqabDFov7knvP8N2bylA1ZiVZ23dooAayDy3iISdmn3eQJLaGGMxzFFiUuBC4SEER4yvPdpqbTB15l8pNLR6-jntYuIu4TOU/s1600/CIMG3124.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 386px; height: 514px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHYI2s5qHp5n37co9qYvu2_3AVPh6xgpul2KTkMDeX09aBqabDFov7knvP8N2bylA1ZiVZ23dooAayDy3iISdmn3eQJLaGGMxzFFiUuBC4SEER4yvPdpqbTB15l8pNLR6-jntYuIu4TOU/s320/CIMG3124.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674170705032357362" border="0" /></a>Xander was very pleased with his Pit Stop Sundae!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWlfUKxJlzROA_Pz0VPlzVpVrApZVLZT1lPU85M03YTJ6NxoPaEXq8Igyt_ehIULsNdJOv4baas7DQLSxznQIUTYjXKrWPp5V6bhyphenhyphenepQJlmeXBWCMl4Rm3XVQRmbbqzUgaLmXj-NchF8/s1600/CIMG3126.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 339px; height: 453px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWlfUKxJlzROA_Pz0VPlzVpVrApZVLZT1lPU85M03YTJ6NxoPaEXq8Igyt_ehIULsNdJOv4baas7DQLSxznQIUTYjXKrWPp5V6bhyphenhyphenepQJlmeXBWCMl4Rm3XVQRmbbqzUgaLmXj-NchF8/s320/CIMG3126.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674170703901104178" border="0" /></a>After our Pit Stop, we snuggled back up to finish the movie. Well, Xander finished. Tiffani and I, on the other hand, didn't make it to the end. We were out cold!<br />But what a fun night we had! It was a simple movie night, made fun and different with a few little labels and activities. I know it was nothing great - no fancy cooking, no fancy dessert - but the kids don't care about that. They just care about the experience and the time together as a family! Because you know, THAT is what it's all about!<br />What do you guys do to make a night at home special?Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-70089818963254437472011-11-10T07:27:00.003-07:002011-11-10T07:42:10.253-07:00What's New?Have you seen all the new things that are going on at Two Hens? I'm excited about the blog and all the things I'm learning about blogging. It's all brand new to me, so it's definitely a learning experience. I love figuring it all out and seeing all the advances I've made. I know they're small changes, but to me, every little step means something.<br />Let's see, Two Hens is now on <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/twohensblog">Twitter</a>! Yes, yes, I know... I'm WAY behind! Twitter is the old thing, and I should already be up and running there. But nope, I'm just getting it going. Bare with me on that too, cause I have no idea how to effectively use Twitter. BUT - there's a button under my bio over to the right - follow me! I promise I'll figure it out in no time.<br />What else? Oh, this one, I'm <span style="font-style: italic;">really</span> excited for. It was brought to my attention by a close friend that my recipes have the potential to be difficult to print. Yeah, I could see this. With all the pictures and the mumbo-jumbo. So I've added a Print Friendly button at the end of each post. You can remove all pictures if you'd like, and you can choose what content you want to be deleted from your printed copy. I'm in love with this option! I hope you are too.<br />One last change to the blog is the additional pages I've added. I have a For Your Belly page for all those yummy recipes you might want to try out. I have a For Your Home page that is currently empty, but that will be changing. I really do hope to get things going on the DIY decorating front. Pinterest has given me so many great ideas that I want to try out and put on the blog for everyone to enjoy. And then of course, there's a bit about me on my A Bit About Your Host page. Hopefully it'll give you a little insight as to who I am.<br />Like I said, I know it's not much, but it's something. I see the blog evolving, and I'm happy to have you along for the ride! Please enjoy and stop lurking... I want to "see" who you are... leave some comment love if you'd like.Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-7616788741187666372011-11-10T06:15:00.002-07:002011-11-10T06:59:11.104-07:00Easy Weeknight Stroganoff<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NHhsnAvlvvJcUIDj5wXWhQ1TNo9pVQrgk_0H_EAkUOM2dGixOxG2RwkfEU6Io7ZSOMwBKYGb8f2t-ZV_UZeSjsybcHeZyEXEi0b_DFUv3iv5MSJrsvwY19GBxfV45wPFQrJutkEt49w/s1600/CIMG3078.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNu2AKEMfbMMAFynb8jezXeCX9P6wyDAPL8owTOqv7vkMP-4vDPeRayZd9rFYJFEOLnhSOKREDR-s_YJFJ1JDqdbWwIb1pu1BEJmbbyom1fxqc7AVb0dIej6wz25W6Jg3yr-xPDdjUd0/s1600/CIMG3082.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 489px; height: 366px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNu2AKEMfbMMAFynb8jezXeCX9P6wyDAPL8owTOqv7vkMP-4vDPeRayZd9rFYJFEOLnhSOKREDR-s_YJFJ1JDqdbWwIb1pu1BEJmbbyom1fxqc7AVb0dIej6wz25W6Jg3yr-xPDdjUd0/s320/CIMG3082.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673357236825733186" border="0" /></a>Something about me. I used to really really dislike mushrooms growing up. I wouldn't eat anything that had mushrooms in it. But as my palate has matured (ha, i don't really talk like that - but it sounded good huh?).... As I was saying, as I've grown up and tried a lot of new foods over the years, mushrooms have become one of my favorite foods. Luckily, I have passed my new-found love of mushrooms on to my son. He'll eat them raw, he'll eat them on pizza, in pasta, dipped in ranch, you name it!<br />As a vegetarian though, there have been quite a few dishes that I just thought I'd have to do without for the rest of my life and just deal with the sacrifice. While a whole plate of ribs or a slab of steak isn't on my menu plan anytime soon, there are quite a few meat-lover favorites that have been able to make their way into my mouth with just a few simple revisions. This "Hamburger" Stroganoff is one of those dishes. It is so super simple, and I was able to whip it up quickly last night after work.<br />on a side note, my hand is really bruised because I slammed in a drawer while putting clothes away... serves me right for actually DOING my laundry. I should've just stuck to leaving them all clean in baskets and living out of the baskets for the next week. Does anyone else struggle with putting away their clean laundry? I have no problem putting it in the washer, transferring it into the dryer, and sometimes I'll even get it folded and everything. But to actually PUT IT AWAY?! Nope, that I just can't do for some reasons. I think I have a problem. Anyway, my hand hurts.<br />so, where was I... right, your next family-pleasing delicious dinner coming up...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Easy Weeknight Stroganoff<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;">Ingredients<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span>1 16-oz package egg noodles<br />1 package soy crumbles (of course, you can substitute for a pound of lean ground beef)<br />1 packet dry brown gravy mix<br />1 8-oz package cream cheese<br />1 6-oz can chopped mushrooms, with liquid<br />1/2 cup milk<br />1 8-ox container sour cream<br />2 cans of cream of mushroom soup<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Um-VZyXQxxlBWFGcabZlYdF6uXSqFjr8EBQzwwt5dHkWp4_0gj6rOFzjE2k9AA8mM5MqsAi2FfixuqrH9_DCZm3Wkzvd3Wn_767vgMccNYVy9Smq7rg2f-ae_GgtkYJtHOw0i4HfDus/s1600/CIMG3060.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 517px; height: 387px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Um-VZyXQxxlBWFGcabZlYdF6uXSqFjr8EBQzwwt5dHkWp4_0gj6rOFzjE2k9AA8mM5MqsAi2FfixuqrH9_DCZm3Wkzvd3Wn_767vgMccNYVy9Smq7rg2f-ae_GgtkYJtHOw0i4HfDus/s320/CIMG3060.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673357008443239666" border="0" /></a>Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente, and then drain. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ID3Csi1sB5xMGfDqEEzQB3ExJuzy3nqs4qBvrvz7Qk7RKGeIFbZ-Jktt4EPCnhbLz4qvHL5q8tQtbKc_yqvjElGxNPAo6vQxXYo_BGDBMa24Rj2_5vTBNiRSxVNVxy8ylgMIGVEahYw/s1600/CIMG3068.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 513px; height: 384px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ID3Csi1sB5xMGfDqEEzQB3ExJuzy3nqs4qBvrvz7Qk7RKGeIFbZ-Jktt4EPCnhbLz4qvHL5q8tQtbKc_yqvjElGxNPAo6vQxXYo_BGDBMa24Rj2_5vTBNiRSxVNVxy8ylgMIGVEahYw/s320/CIMG3068.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673357024244075442" border="0" /></a>So I have a trick to share with you. Maybe everyone already knows this, but I didn't, and I'm thrilled! See that wooden spatula thingy there on my pot of boiling water? It's actually serving a purpose there. You know how your pasta water boils over just about every time unless you stand there blowing on it to prevent that? (is that just me??) Well, place a wooden spoon, spatula, tool of some sort over the top of your pot and it won't boil over! It will get awfully close though. Anyway, try it out!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDcxIAJD90hpQOnZftcBlCFjjeXj-WhjW-yrBDDbsyWQipZja71BANgFsXL_4Ni7XxvZfkcUGlF_ibT7RCVj6Y2grCHn1MBCKNIR0IRhU25X641MVPvQPRGb_kctLHwpkrKVoFpNdOop4/s1600/CIMG3073.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 507px; height: 380px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDcxIAJD90hpQOnZftcBlCFjjeXj-WhjW-yrBDDbsyWQipZja71BANgFsXL_4Ni7XxvZfkcUGlF_ibT7RCVj6Y2grCHn1MBCKNIR0IRhU25X641MVPvQPRGb_kctLHwpkrKVoFpNdOop4/s320/CIMG3073.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673357035312086226" border="0" /></a>In a skillet over medium heat, brown the soy crumbles until it's all thawed (or ground beef until no pink shows - drain). When I'm "browning" my soy crumbles, I just put it right into the hot pan still frozen. No oil or anything in the pan. But I do like to add a splash of water in there. This gets things moving, makes the larger frozen chunks easier to break up, and you just get a better meat-like feel to it. But really, just a splash - you don't want runny meat!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbLqop_stQemeNXNl4DxjAg5OoNCAo4t2yazecADL0P02M7wo4WmhKO4r-9LDwyexreoYb-CzchIwQYjSQ0W4Iv2UB0484lKhMToViv7eQaOlHJtiPDadb0rPk_wz5lFLSKcdEy96LZag/s1600/CIMG3063.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 512px; height: 383px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbLqop_stQemeNXNl4DxjAg5OoNCAo4t2yazecADL0P02M7wo4WmhKO4r-9LDwyexreoYb-CzchIwQYjSQ0W4Iv2UB0484lKhMToViv7eQaOlHJtiPDadb0rPk_wz5lFLSKcdEy96LZag/s320/CIMG3063.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673357009138000450" border="0" /></a>Mix your brown gravy mix, cream cheese, and mushrooms with the hamburger until cream cheese has given the mixture a whitish look. I get my gravy mix bulk, and just used about a 1/4 of a cup. As for the cream cheese, I used fat free, and the results turned out great! It may take a little bit longer to all melt down, but if you're looking for a bit of a healthier alternative, cutting corners everywhere you can really helps!<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZPP_FMdaxyiOoC9EE7k51WL6xlZKMWmGJYoyq1lwxSNScdFzGiJuou3vGbF-igyNCJ_f4Nk0TaRQxb26sLczgaqsxdwa28vPlv8DY4-TSohRBWKrIOf6JKZfkzirVUd9xvyb48i8MZHM/s1600/CIMG3069.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 507px; height: 380px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZPP_FMdaxyiOoC9EE7k51WL6xlZKMWmGJYoyq1lwxSNScdFzGiJuou3vGbF-igyNCJ_f4Nk0TaRQxb26sLczgaqsxdwa28vPlv8DY4-TSohRBWKrIOf6JKZfkzirVUd9xvyb48i8MZHM/s320/CIMG3069.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673357029148711122" border="0" /></a>I would have also taken a picture of everything all mixed together, but you know what, it's really not all that pretty to photograph, and <a href="http://www.joythebaker.com/blog/2011/11/10-real-talk-blog-tips/#more-6705">someone</a> once said that you should only photograph things that are pretty. Just know that if it looks a little ewwie, you are on the right track! I promise it tastes SO much better than it looks at this point!<br />Anyway, now you'll add the milk, sour cream, and mushroom soup to the cooked pasta.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NHhsnAvlvvJcUIDj5wXWhQ1TNo9pVQrgk_0H_EAkUOM2dGixOxG2RwkfEU6Io7ZSOMwBKYGb8f2t-ZV_UZeSjsybcHeZyEXEi0b_DFUv3iv5MSJrsvwY19GBxfV45wPFQrJutkEt49w/s1600/CIMG3078.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 522px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NHhsnAvlvvJcUIDj5wXWhQ1TNo9pVQrgk_0H_EAkUOM2dGixOxG2RwkfEU6Io7ZSOMwBKYGb8f2t-ZV_UZeSjsybcHeZyEXEi0b_DFUv3iv5MSJrsvwY19GBxfV45wPFQrJutkEt49w/s320/CIMG3078.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673357234571049778" border="0" /></a>Then blend the hamburger mixture with the pasta and eat up!! This makes a lot! If you have a small family (3-4), I would consider halving it. We all had a bunch, we have plenty to take in lunches tomorrow... and possibly for the next week. Luckily for us, it's aMAZing, so I think I'm ok with that!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNu2AKEMfbMMAFynb8jezXeCX9P6wyDAPL8owTOqv7vkMP-4vDPeRayZd9rFYJFEOLnhSOKREDR-s_YJFJ1JDqdbWwIb1pu1BEJmbbyom1fxqc7AVb0dIej6wz25W6Jg3yr-xPDdjUd0/s1600/CIMG3082.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 527px; height: 395px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNu2AKEMfbMMAFynb8jezXeCX9P6wyDAPL8owTOqv7vkMP-4vDPeRayZd9rFYJFEOLnhSOKREDR-s_YJFJ1JDqdbWwIb1pu1BEJmbbyom1fxqc7AVb0dIej6wz25W6Jg3yr-xPDdjUd0/s320/CIMG3082.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673357236825733186" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ID3Csi1sB5xMGfDqEEzQB3ExJuzy3nqs4qBvrvz7Qk7RKGeIFbZ-Jktt4EPCnhbLz4qvHL5q8tQtbKc_yqvjElGxNPAo6vQxXYo_BGDBMa24Rj2_5vTBNiRSxVNVxy8ylgMIGVEahYw/s1600/CIMG3068.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbLqop_stQemeNXNl4DxjAg5OoNCAo4t2yazecADL0P02M7wo4WmhKO4r-9LDwyexreoYb-CzchIwQYjSQ0W4Iv2UB0484lKhMToViv7eQaOlHJtiPDadb0rPk_wz5lFLSKcdEy96LZag/s1600/CIMG3063.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Um-VZyXQxxlBWFGcabZlYdF6uXSqFjr8EBQzwwt5dHkWp4_0gj6rOFzjE2k9AA8mM5MqsAi2FfixuqrH9_DCZm3Wkzvd3Wn_767vgMccNYVy9Smq7rg2f-ae_GgtkYJtHOw0i4HfDus/s1600/CIMG3060.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDcxIAJD90hpQOnZftcBlCFjjeXj-WhjW-yrBDDbsyWQipZja71BANgFsXL_4Ni7XxvZfkcUGlF_ibT7RCVj6Y2grCHn1MBCKNIR0IRhU25X641MVPvQPRGb_kctLHwpkrKVoFpNdOop4/s1600/CIMG3073.JPG"><br /></a>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-90770277488552588182011-11-08T07:01:00.008-07:002011-11-13T11:49:20.635-07:00Coconut Banana Bread<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2gw4b4wMjq1rJ9rzyN09dNjp-4j2Z7BFCmuN-PHptEiO9MwS94vpq3bzwLyTVrUnJ7vm98cJ93XmPlN0HT3-35Bl_H1OJW6KjxbHq6vPE8q5xl-VULxm1nddtu7FUcOpKQPjEnPpZXw/s1600/CIMG3050.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 508px; height: 380px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2gw4b4wMjq1rJ9rzyN09dNjp-4j2Z7BFCmuN-PHptEiO9MwS94vpq3bzwLyTVrUnJ7vm98cJ93XmPlN0HT3-35Bl_H1OJW6KjxbHq6vPE8q5xl-VULxm1nddtu7FUcOpKQPjEnPpZXw/s320/CIMG3050.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672626327887650850" border="0" /></a>So I've finally pretty much gotten over my cold, and I've regained my energy to be able to do things I want to do. Luckily for you guys, first day back in the kitchen was a total success. Well, dinner was kind of a flop, but that's not what matters here. What matters is this amazingly delicious bread!<br />Let me just tell you something about myself. I hate bananas. I'm pretty sure it's a texture thing. I've tried numerous times to make myself eat a banana because I know there are many health benefits associated with eating bananas. I just can't do it though! So instead, I hide them in the form of yummy baked goods. I can do banana muffins, banana pancakes, and even a new banana cream pie I tried out a few weeks back. I can <span style="font-style: italic;">definitely </span>do this bread. If there's anything that I love just as much as I hate bananas, it's COCONUT! Coconut anything - shampoo, lotion, coffee creamer, bread, cake... or how bout just a handful of coconut? Yes PLEASE! My obsession, er love, of coconut absolutely cancels out my passionate hatred for bananas in this quick bread.<br />I modified it just a bit from the original recipe. For one, I only had one nasty gooey banana on hand, so I added a good amount of applesauce. I also replaced the vegetable oil with coconut oil. Have you guys ever tried using coconut oil in your baking/cooking? There are <span style="font-style: italic;">so</span> many health benefits to using coconut oil rather than your vegetable oils. For example, when you use olive oil to saute your vegetables, the olive oil actually releases toxic chemicals as well as destroying any antioxidants in the oil. This doesn't happen with coconut oil. Coconut oil promotes good health. It doesn't clog your arteries the way other oils do. It speeds up your metabolism. It boosts your immune system. The benefits go on and on. If you don't already use coconut oil in your cooking and baking, I highly recommend looking into it! I've never noticed a difference in taste since I've started using it. Anyway, I'll get off my soapbox and introduce you to a very yummy recipe that is pairing <span style="font-style: italic;">very </span>well with my morning coffee (with almond joy creamer... be still my heart!!).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Coconut Banana Bread</span><br />adapted from<a href="http://fatgirltrappedinaskinnybody.blogspot.com/2011/10/coconut-banana-bread.html"> Fat Girl Trapped in a Skinny Body</a><br /><br />Ingredients<br />1/2 cup coconut oil, melted to a liquid<br />1 cup granulated sugar<br />2 eggs<br />1 tsp vanilla extract<br />2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<br />1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder<br />1 teaspoon baking soda<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />1 medium override banana + 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce<br />1 cup light coconut milk<br />1 cup sweetened flaked coconut (or shredded coconut)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaiv-bobnmNqthFCmgMo0ydVymUN_xwN0jkGWXbxlPFyiAnYax2sNKiqOSGDLpW36W-x1yVi1TV9wySC9ouS0Y4zEiycH2vCi_a2s6J-fmRHAUQ_UXFGs7_iT2oAyhEuN-niEX_jVKrc4/s1600/CIMG3030.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 491px; height: 368px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaiv-bobnmNqthFCmgMo0ydVymUN_xwN0jkGWXbxlPFyiAnYax2sNKiqOSGDLpW36W-x1yVi1TV9wySC9ouS0Y4zEiycH2vCi_a2s6J-fmRHAUQ_UXFGs7_iT2oAyhEuN-niEX_jVKrc4/s320/CIMG3030.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672625979942769602" border="0" /></a><br />Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9 by 5-inch loaf pan, and set aside. (or you could fill this into 4 mini loaf pans and give as tasty gifts!)<br /><br />In a mixing bowl, using a wooden spoon mix the oil and sugar. Of course, if you haven't jumped on the coconut oil bandwagon yet, go ahead and substitute for the same amount of vegetable oil. Mixing the sugar and oil together gives you a consistency of a slushy... Not gonna lie, I kinda wanted to try it cause it looked like a pina colada slushy. But I resisted!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAZwlAVZEmt76PTu3hFN7JWMgJoIpYzhBCJm62zWmsAKAN6qoT8cVJg7yysWLd3OYGHT7wLiWIyZQrb-hVM0qbQ_UUsPGOLFvkvY93Yq6PKnEbdVGR0g66KFv2JBFJSWbs0Ipj6SfhzY/s1600/CIMG3032.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 508px; height: 380px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAZwlAVZEmt76PTu3hFN7JWMgJoIpYzhBCJm62zWmsAKAN6qoT8cVJg7yysWLd3OYGHT7wLiWIyZQrb-hVM0qbQ_UUsPGOLFvkvY93Yq6PKnEbdVGR0g66KFv2JBFJSWbs0Ipj6SfhzY/s320/CIMG3032.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672625985057875538" border="0" /></a>Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. And then stir in the vanilla extract.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Be68BQXyEeC_0jKq1lcpYJd8GUdoRNstA7nJnIuWXhv2Cm98LV8QrteN_Kis0NfCNJJrLJ_vrGAI4p9G-h66a0Or3kVWT9l2LRSmCqsEaElhGJj0C1ytNLtgf24jNsx4LahF0bmCvtQ/s1600/CIMG3033.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 506px; height: 379px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Be68BQXyEeC_0jKq1lcpYJd8GUdoRNstA7nJnIuWXhv2Cm98LV8QrteN_Kis0NfCNJJrLJ_vrGAI4p9G-h66a0Or3kVWT9l2LRSmCqsEaElhGJj0C1ytNLtgf24jNsx4LahF0bmCvtQ/s320/CIMG3033.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672625995987270914" border="0" /></a>Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhe3spY9KI-n9EltdM3vCnZjtCVgfsj1ZPp_D2D3EC3r1NpnS9jtGLPIoZiAtnuTia9a5O0qjuTMIFdTe6LwGY1xbdG0HQT_WIgu8nazgesQPapvch-jq4jOO5oI_2Bjozzvxnj4fUyAg/s1600/CIMG3037.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 475px; height: 356px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhe3spY9KI-n9EltdM3vCnZjtCVgfsj1ZPp_D2D3EC3r1NpnS9jtGLPIoZiAtnuTia9a5O0qjuTMIFdTe6LwGY1xbdG0HQT_WIgu8nazgesQPapvch-jq4jOO5oI_2Bjozzvxnj4fUyAg/s320/CIMG3037.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672625999250248850" border="0" /></a>In a separate bowl, stir together the mashed banana, applesauce, and the coconut milk.<br /><br />Gradually mix the dry ingredients and the banana mixture in with the sugar/oil/vanilla mixture. Alternate between adding the dry and the gooey. Start and end with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined. Stir in the flaked coconut, checking to be sure you've gotten out any clumps of coconut - well, unless you want a big bite of coconut in your bread, which you know what, doesn't sound all that bad to me!<br /><br />Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_PBsyfHTIEwzPJFMmsCv-EB6u3zwqLyE5CeTHSIPpkqLdnMNRGAmMGqh-scGw2nuJGjNAupMbYoJXCN10zT8kwnT2mVLLcHP2CzakmU5ooWx_q5BMyFLdLY6dChXapAUZDhd83KL9pk/s1600/CIMG3039.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 513px; height: 684px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_PBsyfHTIEwzPJFMmsCv-EB6u3zwqLyE5CeTHSIPpkqLdnMNRGAmMGqh-scGw2nuJGjNAupMbYoJXCN10zT8kwnT2mVLLcHP2CzakmU5ooWx_q5BMyFLdLY6dChXapAUZDhd83KL9pk/s320/CIMG3039.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672626009065225794" border="0" /></a>Bake for about an hour and ten minutes. Check the bread at an hour. When a toothpick inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean, you are good to go! If you are using mini loafs, these would probably only take about 45 minutes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwF6Sm3R5D14J7fwrw4rxFwqlFFAwZx1QCpXs-dzoIsx8T_cNlf3X-tJWAkzHk37MFsdX9tTjG-VcX5q4Z6x9ZeM8ut8Z4Zs6O5Kkb4-sE4JNvDB_JDrtBOM5dnWXIfOkp6FS6puxbse4/s1600/CIMG3049.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 482px; height: 361px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwF6Sm3R5D14J7fwrw4rxFwqlFFAwZx1QCpXs-dzoIsx8T_cNlf3X-tJWAkzHk37MFsdX9tTjG-VcX5q4Z6x9ZeM8ut8Z4Zs6O5Kkb4-sE4JNvDB_JDrtBOM5dnWXIfOkp6FS6puxbse4/s320/CIMG3049.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672626318289765250" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_GGj5bdI5dDcW6oKSCv_9pTT2Jv5hx8_Uz7gBE827QgxUxEQNTYvcgoFmyhyHoNmZUcmxmH8KHQuWs2ArMtrHPFUsGgp139GSqY7I5MxdYZ1ZfL4P8nZqpRZ-ZAfeBrREox0Pv9ol3A/s1600/CIMG3046.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 476px; height: 634px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_GGj5bdI5dDcW6oKSCv_9pTT2Jv5hx8_Uz7gBE827QgxUxEQNTYvcgoFmyhyHoNmZUcmxmH8KHQuWs2ArMtrHPFUsGgp139GSqY7I5MxdYZ1ZfL4P8nZqpRZ-ZAfeBrREox0Pv9ol3A/s320/CIMG3046.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672626309774728162" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjCJyliIgod6crevWBCZ9kbA3Lg-QPTJzFMoaXk4bKHpNHSMv3gPCtrBHXGG2XFqva0-UvVeDqb5BmEEDMoF58BsI7w_M8R8oW86vO6EVwvbzn_ftL70kJto0r04yvgY0GssWa7pwJaM/s1600/CIMG3042.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 454px; height: 605px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjCJyliIgod6crevWBCZ9kbA3Lg-QPTJzFMoaXk4bKHpNHSMv3gPCtrBHXGG2XFqva0-UvVeDqb5BmEEDMoF58BsI7w_M8R8oW86vO6EVwvbzn_ftL70kJto0r04yvgY0GssWa7pwJaM/s320/CIMG3042.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672626303373774146" border="0" /></a><br />After about 10 minutes of cooling in the loaf pan, turn it out onto a cooling rack. Cool <span style="font-style: italic;">completely </span>before cutting into.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr18Ibk6p3ER-ZS6CwiEn8FoEZFs0BjHaQ5bNaGF-WDqx__5YO7G-jeYdtSMyXjyLPwgoxeDrXsN3Fe0gT7UsQtqesdKfnmGpW7caJuF4iTDbH83dmdEgxHfB_KiC4lXvx7UyyD2Y6288/s1600/CIMG3053.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 492px; height: 368px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr18Ibk6p3ER-ZS6CwiEn8FoEZFs0BjHaQ5bNaGF-WDqx__5YO7G-jeYdtSMyXjyLPwgoxeDrXsN3Fe0gT7UsQtqesdKfnmGpW7caJuF4iTDbH83dmdEgxHfB_KiC4lXvx7UyyD2Y6288/s320/CIMG3053.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672626334325892946" border="0" /></a>ENJOY!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_PBsyfHTIEwzPJFMmsCv-EB6u3zwqLyE5CeTHSIPpkqLdnMNRGAmMGqh-scGw2nuJGjNAupMbYoJXCN10zT8kwnT2mVLLcHP2CzakmU5ooWx_q5BMyFLdLY6dChXapAUZDhd83KL9pk/s1600/CIMG3039.JPG"><br /></a>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-52189091300030833402011-11-04T07:57:00.009-06:002011-11-09T07:03:44.452-07:00"I don't want to be sick anymore" Minestrone Soup<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmw2ArIH1IdrpIStIDGfNJacNKtk-MT6EHuan_oJPw-Avk14xdFHV-kdD4M0loyz9IcfnCRgG6g_oaCB6ZAZM-k46AAgnmB7FXU98nZjWddkhVVfE2doLJ7s2ksX8t2NYSlygXaoGo7M/s1600/CIMG3012.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmw2ArIH1IdrpIStIDGfNJacNKtk-MT6EHuan_oJPw-Avk14xdFHV-kdD4M0loyz9IcfnCRgG6g_oaCB6ZAZM-k46AAgnmB7FXU98nZjWddkhVVfE2doLJ7s2ksX8t2NYSlygXaoGo7M/s320/CIMG3012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671140090870538642" border="0" /></a><br />Since last Saturday, I have been battling a stuffy nose, scratchy throat, achy body, and just a general no-good cold! I made it through Halloween, but only because it's my motherly obligation to actually take the kiddo Trick-or-Treating. Otherwise, I'm not sure it actually would have happened. We went down to my parents' neighborhood to trick-or-treat, and my mom came along too. It ended up being really fun, and my little Ninja got way too much candy! (which is how it's supposed to go right?) Well, despite the fun we all had, being out in the cold for 2 hours sure didn't help my cold. The next morning, I felt even worse and it made for a <span style="font-style: italic;">long</span> day at work. Wednesday I even had to take a day off and rest. Oh, and right around this time, Tiffani started getting the sore throat and sniffles too! So we're both feeling down and out.<br />Thursday at work, trying to come up with something yummy for dinner was difficult. Really, nothing sounds good at all when you're sick.... <span style="font-style: italic;">except!... </span>Hearty hot soup that just makes your throat feel so much better from the first bite! So I was on the hunt for a delish minestrone soup, full of vitamin packed veggies to mend this nasty bug.<br /><br />Hearty Minestrone Soup<br />adapted from <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/jamies-minestrone/detail.aspx">allrecipes.com</a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">ingredients</span><br />3 Tablespoons of coconut oil<br />3 cloves of garlic, chopped<br />1/2 onion, chopped<br />2 cups chopped celery<br />5 carrots sliced<br />2 cups vegetable broth<br />1/2 cup water<br />4 cups tomato sauce<br />1 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed<br />1 (15 oz) can green beans<br />2 cups baby spinach, rinsed and roughly chopped<br />3 zucchinis, quartered and sliced<br />1 Tablespoon chopped fresh oregano<br />2 Tablespoons chopped fresh basil<br />salt and pepper to taste<br />1/2 cup seashell pasta<br />2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, for topping<br /><br />In a large stock pot, over medium-low heat, heat coconut oil (of course, you could use olive oil - coconut oil is just my oil of choice) and saute garlic for 2 to 3 minutes. I'm really lazy sometimes and use the already chopped and jarred garlic. I should probably just get over it and use the fresh stuff, but you know what - i'm busy, and i haven't noticed a taste difference, so this is how it is for now.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQKhP1cu8A7CsjNnxLXg3LfcJuQEDr_OXd53vScMuTzHDB7-3NFzCs69MSMef-Wxq1lNtuhESP4QDy9Bguqbz7hIAc5UJY1G2Z9gU3hJdWUU160xCjm3FxVY8IEzRZAztO6T9xUmmPmk/s1600/CIMG3000.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 480px; height: 359px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQKhP1cu8A7CsjNnxLXg3LfcJuQEDr_OXd53vScMuTzHDB7-3NFzCs69MSMef-Wxq1lNtuhESP4QDy9Bguqbz7hIAc5UJY1G2Z9gU3hJdWUU160xCjm3FxVY8IEzRZAztO6T9xUmmPmk/s320/CIMG3000.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671139829426819490" border="0" /></a>Add onion and saute for 4 to 5 minutes. Add celery and carrots. Saute for 1 to 2 minutes.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakJYZ9ydO0fSyLhFLXF9UdCzru5BNtLno6jtqlDSMD0_U69arz2eOxWcaGdtd13-liMOIfbB74CXMs7tO3OITOOqZgySUklEIyQ0ZzopJsQHdJiWCWhtEIey2cW3DhmxP1drAaccokNQ/s1600/CIMG3004.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 488px; height: 365px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakJYZ9ydO0fSyLhFLXF9UdCzru5BNtLno6jtqlDSMD0_U69arz2eOxWcaGdtd13-liMOIfbB74CXMs7tO3OITOOqZgySUklEIyQ0ZzopJsQHdJiWCWhtEIey2cW3DhmxP1drAaccokNQ/s320/CIMG3004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671139881101702978" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwiOK6otbWBYacPeVIWw8kJiwoPnMZDTFbFLX-PV1DG5zikeyEB1cmaNNZd9JmEev0pSEMMiA3OOPTFSGNu4S-JIcp6G6q7Ws_pKWQt2d_fyjLZEca5xSFuoZqQqAupJje-NVJPdc8uU/s1600/CIMG3001.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 490px; height: 367px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwiOK6otbWBYacPeVIWw8kJiwoPnMZDTFbFLX-PV1DG5zikeyEB1cmaNNZd9JmEev0pSEMMiA3OOPTFSGNu4S-JIcp6G6q7Ws_pKWQt2d_fyjLZEca5xSFuoZqQqAupJje-NVJPdc8uU/s320/CIMG3001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671139852652847602" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVLeF06b7Ajmjkx6I_7NPMpvqWD-dwwY1xbAnfu7qcollSnxoHnGME_v4L4vTrNdFBAVoPzkqz9lzS2yA0stvdsh85T8NzQCl2XJSxVNC_M_aFgwhbNWmyBuAiSTonL3-5ODtq9_QWM4/s1600/CIMG2995.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 495px; height: 371px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVLeF06b7Ajmjkx6I_7NPMpvqWD-dwwY1xbAnfu7qcollSnxoHnGME_v4L4vTrNdFBAVoPzkqz9lzS2yA0stvdsh85T8NzQCl2XJSxVNC_M_aFgwhbNWmyBuAiSTonL3-5ODtq9_QWM4/s320/CIMG2995.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671139818731432754" border="0" /></a>Look at all those pretty fresh veggies! Do you really think I'm going to be able to stay sick much longer? Nope!<br />Add vegetable broth (or chicken if you prefer), water (I started with 1/2 cup and was just fine. The original recipe called for 2 cups of water and that just seemed excessive. You choose. I like a chunkier soup), and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low and add kidney beans, green beans, spinach leaves, zucchini, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. I only had dried herbs on hand, so I had to make do. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, the longer the better.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQo5hNHHOfF63drqiZKyfEN2U-69sJ2UeRc4651dPcz9hD5n2Uh2PUPSxOh82Qd_OWetpFyc4HHsuhnkpcHkF_XFsuNHD8YSozabRvJ7aUQ8RfL1YcAON6mR44UgKqVNAojB4fGVHeVI/s1600/CIMG3009.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQo5hNHHOfF63drqiZKyfEN2U-69sJ2UeRc4651dPcz9hD5n2Uh2PUPSxOh82Qd_OWetpFyc4HHsuhnkpcHkF_XFsuNHD8YSozabRvJ7aUQ8RfL1YcAON6mR44UgKqVNAojB4fGVHeVI/s320/CIMG3009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671140085568270178" border="0" /></a>While your soup is simmering, fill a medium saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Add your pasta (I used those teeny little stars, and the kiddo loved it). Cook until tender, drain, and set aside.<br />Once pasta is cooked and soup is heated through, place a bit of cooked pasta into individual serving bowls and ladle soup on top of pasta. Top with some Parm, stick a yummy whole wheat roll or some saltines in there, and you are set! I used a yummy Parm/Romano blend and was happy with the results.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJZ75fpmQ9hf0NHRrkOxMKsCEysw8zE4QuJfqZ41czE4zSlqp9lxjt8kfsKj3XsZBDFmuvV4jXg4put4PD6kLn0Uc-5KSpDNPkcG3ArQQlU1cEuiHhxaW9gDv7rbjQRO0sFpdjJmCQ5Q/s1600/CIMG3014.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJZ75fpmQ9hf0NHRrkOxMKsCEysw8zE4QuJfqZ41czE4zSlqp9lxjt8kfsKj3XsZBDFmuvV4jXg4put4PD6kLn0Uc-5KSpDNPkcG3ArQQlU1cEuiHhxaW9gDv7rbjQRO0sFpdjJmCQ5Q/s320/CIMG3014.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671140111349066850" border="0" /></a><br />While I'm still not feeling 100%, I do feel like I'm the up side of this cold. I'm going to try and get a little workout in this morning, maybe have some of this leftover get-better soup for lunch, and have a great day and try to forget that I really don't feel all that great. It's snowing here in my neck of the woods... hoping to keep warm somehow! You do the same!<br />What's your favorite "I'm sick and just want to feel better" meal? <em>Come join the fun at the <a href="http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/sausage-and-lentil-soup/">My Baking Addiction</a> and<a href="http://www.goodlifeeats.com/holiday-recipe-exchange-rules"> </a><a href="http://www.goodlifeeats.com/holiday-recipe-exchange-rules" target="_blank">GoodLife Eats</a> Holiday Recipe Swap sponsored by<a href="http://www.pacificfoods.com/"> </a><a href="http://www.pacificfoods.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pacific Natural Foods</a>.<br /></em>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-56830709958536161152011-10-30T14:40:00.007-06:002011-10-30T15:17:25.955-06:00Pumpkin Whoopie Pies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5SlfBCLxi894NbplL4Kn2gIMHg7SDnBK_j8GenHQKSQqDQ0Uc1DT2se7w6iPntz9m_oL9zaF8GTA1KcQpCaWrvruCNlkrxTTakGwo0qo59I9fy5mX10Nji94hMxeabZB0tbd402Hd_EI/s1600/CIMG2942.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 524px; height: 392px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5SlfBCLxi894NbplL4Kn2gIMHg7SDnBK_j8GenHQKSQqDQ0Uc1DT2se7w6iPntz9m_oL9zaF8GTA1KcQpCaWrvruCNlkrxTTakGwo0qo59I9fy5mX10Nji94hMxeabZB0tbd402Hd_EI/s320/CIMG2942.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669390910114860034" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpqklwMUpZaOSWuAQj5_1V-ByiVgEIWaHow70LYLFT43rCBb7KW_AbhzTAipkdOL7NhY2xcZRxBi-btAsFhvIOsKq0PmhhclsuFJllQ-feLo6MRtuFroamp_g2boxT0s7eODJu_2MKMQ/s1600/CIMG2937.JPG"><br /></a>Because it's that time of year, I'm sure you're going to be seeing a whole lot of pumpkin recipes from me. Friday was Tiffani's Birthday, and even though I had already made the <a href="http://twohensandmonkey.blogspot.com/2011/10/pumpkin-crunch-cake.html">Pumpkin Crunch Cake</a> for the celebration with her family, I decided she needed a little pumpkin yummy on her actual birthday. So I decided to use some of the leftover pumpkin puree from the cake, and I had a bunch of the cream cheese frosting left over as well. What better treats for her to take to work than some delicious Pumpkin Whoopie Pies!<br />It was like a wonderful pumpkin roll in cookie form, and they were really quite easy to make! It was a one bowl recipe. No dry ingredients in one and wet in the other. Just all together! Of course, if you don't have any pre-made cream cheese frosting, you would need to mix that up in another bowl too, but that's about it!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pumpkin Whoopie Pies<br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;">adapted from <a href="http://www.rachaelraymag.com/Recipes/rachael-ray-magazine-recipe-search/dessert-recipes/pumpkin-whoopie-pies">Rachel Ray</a><br />makes 12 pies<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span></span>Ingredients<br />For Cookies:<br /><ul><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="name">1 stick unsalted butter, melted</span></span></li><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="amount">1 cup </span><span class="name">packed light brown sugar</span></span></li><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="name">2 large eggs, at room temperature</span></span></li><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="amount">1 cup </span><span class="name">canned pure pumpkin puree</span></span></li><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="amount">1 tablespoon </span><span class="name">pumpkin pie spice</span></span></li><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="amount">1 1/2 teaspoons </span><span class="name">pure vanilla extract</span></span></li><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="amount">1 teaspoon </span><span class="name">baking powder</span></span></li><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="amount">1 teaspoon </span><span class="name">baking soda</span></span></li><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="amount">3/4 teaspoon </span><span class="name">salt</span></span></li><li class="ingredient"><span class="ingredient"><span class="amount">1-2/3 cups </span><span class="name">flour</span></span></li></ul>For Frosting:<br /><ul><li>4 8oz packages of cream cheese</li><li>4 sticks of softened butter</li><li>1 pound of powdered sugar</li><li>1 Tablespoon pure vanilla</li></ul><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVpm2QQfo_L5ExgsZ8YLh6o9hlz1Y19BtNerzOMz_H_Q7NiuGIIiYXp7lY8y3NTSO0KqJs1qKy6vlx1FnjFMRM466BaRk-ly3Nnen2JCLkR3NuzjCxrgAQ5l7Gm2yugWZPXjPXOYs6Bg/s1600/CIMG2927.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 507px; height: 380px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVpm2QQfo_L5ExgsZ8YLh6o9hlz1Y19BtNerzOMz_H_Q7NiuGIIiYXp7lY8y3NTSO0KqJs1qKy6vlx1FnjFMRM466BaRk-ly3Nnen2JCLkR3NuzjCxrgAQ5l7Gm2yugWZPXjPXOYs6Bg/s320/CIMG2927.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669393859530651202" border="0" /></a><br /><p>Preheat the oven to 350°. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.</p><p>In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Whisk in the eggs, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon vanilla, the baking powder, the baking soda and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the flour.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzR3LmJc6L6LkpswO00MGSPGo0NqH9z3hd8Poj09f5xRoUhYAsHpgGbQq3BHD8zTpvcje9ynghIQxqOIukduF4HZNfHAjCcgNJzrWAQdCiZffZWDB-doykMFEyLBa45ziwToyL5HUR_CU/s1600/CIMG2931.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 499px; height: 374px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzR3LmJc6L6LkpswO00MGSPGo0NqH9z3hd8Poj09f5xRoUhYAsHpgGbQq3BHD8zTpvcje9ynghIQxqOIukduF4HZNfHAjCcgNJzrWAQdCiZffZWDB-doykMFEyLBa45ziwToyL5HUR_CU/s320/CIMG2931.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669390791707716258" border="0" /></a></p><p>Using an ice cream scoop or tablespoon, drop 12 generous mounds of batter, spaced evenly, onto each baking sheet. Bake until springy to the touch, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a rack to cool completely.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn861R2_OiZOqFhm1D1LHlx_jR_2HeeLGgfe1RFovdXlBEzdrapeiPD6x30yuGmNZAhAPiC_FF5M6Pa_04wAUe5JQ3h-szpwQf3RVeY4FrpJxQuf2Q7H1vHzNTUjpfmvD5Hik0aisZKk8/s1600/CIMG2935.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 406px; height: 541px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn861R2_OiZOqFhm1D1LHlx_jR_2HeeLGgfe1RFovdXlBEzdrapeiPD6x30yuGmNZAhAPiC_FF5M6Pa_04wAUe5JQ3h-szpwQf3RVeY4FrpJxQuf2Q7H1vHzNTUjpfmvD5Hik0aisZKk8/s320/CIMG2935.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669395965319012274" border="0" /></a></p><p>Whip the cream cheese and butter until very smooth and creamy. Slowly add in the powdered sugar while the mixer is on the low setting. Add in the vanilla and mix well.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Set aside until needed</p><p>Spread the flat side of 12 cakes with the cream cheese frosting. Top each with another cake.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_TOeH7B7mredHi6oK-IzrbsvehobizZhmKKLchxgLd3RfM_Puw46jmnnPYVfPQa94QWQUrJI3P8Zg89rxj4d2haewTEs_PL_1f84O3t6klG1biUWACXtuD7OnY-UgbfvHI8jAs8OYDM/s1600/CIMG2940.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 520px; height: 389px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_TOeH7B7mredHi6oK-IzrbsvehobizZhmKKLchxgLd3RfM_Puw46jmnnPYVfPQa94QWQUrJI3P8Zg89rxj4d2haewTEs_PL_1f84O3t6klG1biUWACXtuD7OnY-UgbfvHI8jAs8OYDM/s320/CIMG2940.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669390810920725730" border="0" /></a></p>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-71969760972292632022011-10-30T00:30:00.005-06:002011-10-30T01:10:43.113-06:00Mama's 3-Bean Chili<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfwORyThJR84K0XC6Voc2oYNKwDwpcHrejQbMepE1zKGN62YRZ1KPbTXicoiWDhIj5n0HKDF4iQZvxdP65zXz8ZlBIOlt-JvXxjWTzT8y0uXNyKObVJKsLIUpxM4ow7mlXq2KCqjBoeyw/s1600/CIMG2861.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 513px; height: 384px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfwORyThJR84K0XC6Voc2oYNKwDwpcHrejQbMepE1zKGN62YRZ1KPbTXicoiWDhIj5n0HKDF4iQZvxdP65zXz8ZlBIOlt-JvXxjWTzT8y0uXNyKObVJKsLIUpxM4ow7mlXq2KCqjBoeyw/s320/CIMG2861.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669174207904860674" border="0" /></a><br />One of my favorite home-cooked meals to make (and eat!) is chili. I remember eating my mom's chili and loving her recipe. One evening in high school, I even decided that I wanted to be in charge of making dinner and decided to recreate my her chili recipe. I had everything all set out on the counter ready to get started. I read the first step of the recipe and realized... I have no idea how to chop an onion. I called my mom, as she was still at work at that time, asking her how to chop an onion. She must have done a good job of giving directions on chopping that onion because I still remember that batch of chili and was so proud of myself for being able to make something as good my mom's chili! For the record, I do now know how to chop an onion. It is definitely something I struggle with still for some reason, but for the most part, I manage to get the thing diced up alright.<br />Over the years, I have tried so many chili recipes. None of them quite match my mom's chili, so I kinda gave up on recreating that taste. Part of the reason could be that I don't eat meat, and most likely, the taste that's missing is the actual meat. But I didn't let that stop me. After all those recipes I kept testing out just didn't have that hearty home-cooked taste I was looking for, I decided to take matters into my own hands. One day, I just threw a bunch of stuff together on a whim and hoped for the best. Boy was it!<br />My little family sat down to dinner, and Tiffani asked me, "Is this a new recipe?" I told her their wasn't a recipe and that I just put things together that I thought would work. Since I had tried so many different recipes, I had a good sense of what was essential in a good chili. So Tiffani told me that it was the best chili I had made yet and that I needed to write it down right then if I could remember everything that I put in it. Luckily, I could.<br />I usually make this in a big soup-pot, where I heat the onions and soy crumbles (ground beef substitute) until the onions are transparent and the crumbles are thawed completely. Then at that point, I would add all the other ingredients and let simmer for at least 45 minutes (hour and a half at best!). But this time, I was feeling a little lazy, and that was just all too much work (of course, I'm joking), so I decided to make this in the crock pot. I wanted dinner to be ready as soon as I got home from work so we would have plenty of time to head over to Wheeler Farm Pumpkin Days afterwards. So without further ado, let me tell you just how easy this crock-pot vegetarian 3-bean chili is.<br /><br />Mama's 3-Bean Chili<br /><br />Ingredients<br />1/2 onion, diced<br />1 can black beans, rinsed<br />1 can chili ready beans, not rinsed<br />1 can great northern white beans, rinsed<br />1 can corn, drained<br />1 can tomato sauce<br />1 can diced tomatoes<br />1.5 cups vegetable stock<br />packet of chili mix<br />1 Tablespoon chili powder<br />1/2 Tablespoon cumin<br />1 teaspoon garlic salt<br />1 package of soy crumbles* this time I used Quorn brand - Boca brand is also good<br />1 bay leaf<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUcZCnc3v9nlV7nTw_6ja23KrzLHanLyUGYrSDdbwSunaZT3lsQvkvcLCWvpg2rUMD2uUX-S1fXHQFYqkNTF7SQSlL1TXL_FKztnQgisaws8IdQy9cGvZ8oey5ZfaEeRtXawPVZg1W_g/s1600/CIMG2847.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 510px; height: 382px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUcZCnc3v9nlV7nTw_6ja23KrzLHanLyUGYrSDdbwSunaZT3lsQvkvcLCWvpg2rUMD2uUX-S1fXHQFYqkNTF7SQSlL1TXL_FKztnQgisaws8IdQy9cGvZ8oey5ZfaEeRtXawPVZg1W_g/s320/CIMG2847.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669174184552263810" border="0" /></a><br />Since I was using the crockpot, literally all I did was dump everything in, stir it together, and set it on low for about 6 hours. It couldn't have been any easier!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Q4yGAycyvRARuTPwlAs71H7I8CtSmHJgHlDYW2l634583P68YrDgJ_oeZDZdVeaptHMn64TQDJFapARM9WVz1Ab4tA016F4zKHSNANvN0vwVr5H95QSgiH57rt0j-0rulNIh4AXddYo/s1600/CIMG2849.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 485px; height: 363px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Q4yGAycyvRARuTPwlAs71H7I8CtSmHJgHlDYW2l634583P68YrDgJ_oeZDZdVeaptHMn64TQDJFapARM9WVz1Ab4tA016F4zKHSNANvN0vwVr5H95QSgiH57rt0j-0rulNIh4AXddYo/s320/CIMG2849.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669174189682171250" border="0" /></a><br />When the chili is all finished simmering or stewing in the crockpot and you're ready to serve, don't forget to fish out the Bay Leaf! No one wants to eat that! In our family, we like to top our chili with a healthy dollop of sour cream and some shredded cheddar cheese. Crumble a few saltine crackers in there (or Cheese-It's if you're my 5 year old), and you have one yummy bowl of warm-you-from-the-inside chili!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6d5A-9DgrMahqosYFaMZru_mJdB7PYCGjV9Lz-vrrWALaVzwupecmfJ2kTxSqnSGdCbHqKNuRw4TgjqRjc_lXtxuzV1VbXtbOFT8nEvfOPGSqu9RB1yryY1PYynmanefsy7NRtgQBrr0/s1600/CIMG2852.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 487px; height: 365px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6d5A-9DgrMahqosYFaMZru_mJdB7PYCGjV9Lz-vrrWALaVzwupecmfJ2kTxSqnSGdCbHqKNuRw4TgjqRjc_lXtxuzV1VbXtbOFT8nEvfOPGSqu9RB1yryY1PYynmanefsy7NRtgQBrr0/s320/CIMG2852.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669174196848225426" border="0" /></a>*Of course, this does not have to be a vegetarian chili. You can brown up some ground beef rather than the soy crumbles and toss that in instead. Your choice. My goal here is to be able to show you just how easy it is to change up a normally meat-packed meal into something family friendly and vegetarian. Yes, I may use a lot of convenience-type ingredients, but c'mon, I'm a full time working mom, and I don't have all the time in the world. I still want to be able to provide something healthful to put on the table every night though. I know that there are a lot of vegetarians out there who are having to cook for the meat-eating spouses and children, and lots of those family members don't really want to eat quinoa, nutritional yeast, and tofu scramble all that often, if at all. My hope is to be able to show fellow busy moms (and dads!) that meat is very versatile, and that it's not the end of the world for your taste buds if you want to cook a meatless meal or two.Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297668358381760334.post-57822442150313522082011-10-26T07:50:00.001-06:002011-10-27T23:09:45.571-06:00Wheeler Farm Pumpkin Days<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Racm5VHL1in6B09s90L7WVBrjOEXjiBULKQ026rlqHjSEsM0VFy7kGezJ72ON-fhuGvG7ljpcKsjQ7ITnkfMo50kyxOWd2782JGQo40FSavfDpPzq25jpT7h-KSqomyQeSuvQzLG3zs/s1600/CIMG2871.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW57bQpDbYFhG1L53UbjYSQqVtjcZdgeOGe_QEV9VgymgU4yaRtCzKyxH2hPIb-Yvu5TPQtiMJ5ootZ-RRPkaLZTkkPKTauotpTwLNy3_vzQ-swC2fBQypEN6KVpc9dtgXmD0W6QLmAEs/s1600/CIMG2883.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 376px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW57bQpDbYFhG1L53UbjYSQqVtjcZdgeOGe_QEV9VgymgU4yaRtCzKyxH2hPIb-Yvu5TPQtiMJ5ootZ-RRPkaLZTkkPKTauotpTwLNy3_vzQ-swC2fBQypEN6KVpc9dtgXmD0W6QLmAEs/s320/CIMG2883.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667798879611096898" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Racm5VHL1in6B09s90L7WVBrjOEXjiBULKQ026rlqHjSEsM0VFy7kGezJ72ON-fhuGvG7ljpcKsjQ7ITnkfMo50kyxOWd2782JGQo40FSavfDpPzq25jpT7h-KSqomyQeSuvQzLG3zs/s1600/CIMG2871.JPG"><br /></a>Tuesday night was such a fun evening for my little family! After a yummy chili dinner (which I'll be blogging about soon), we got all bundled up and headed down to Wheeler Farm for their Halloween festivities. During the summer, Xander's preschool took a field trip to Wheeler Farm to see all the animals. I remembered he loved it, and although we wouldn't be seeing any animals this time, I knew he'd enjoy everything else they had to offer.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkFBT2Rppuro03PyqHvOjIFnhsE8YSOiFsU8x5f-TMz3ep8Kxgk8rCvJtfju1Eaizl_jkFhebJUaQJ-uNvcEfuXZuvG0M_kJx7QMjB3dm6_M-s_xo9QbbMQj9ok2jxnQ7rYZRs-1OZrI/s1600/CIMG2873.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 355px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkFBT2Rppuro03PyqHvOjIFnhsE8YSOiFsU8x5f-TMz3ep8Kxgk8rCvJtfju1Eaizl_jkFhebJUaQJ-uNvcEfuXZuvG0M_kJx7QMjB3dm6_M-s_xo9QbbMQj9ok2jxnQ7rYZRs-1OZrI/s320/CIMG2873.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667798920617195954" border="0" /></a><br />As soon as we got there, the first thing we had to do was attempt the hay maze. Xander loves working on mazes in his workbooks, so I figured this would be right up his alley, and I was right. He hit lots of dead-ends, but he didn't get discouraged - he loved the challenge of finding his way through the maze. It was so fun that we did it twice! Tiffani and I even had a fun time skipping and dancing through the maze with Xander. I love that I can be my silly goofy self with my two favorite people in the world.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd_IHgUvcWSrDxzuVOHXWy0TsQUcfsB-ZOS3wP7PhndOtfO3ctBvbt09L_IQ5k1Na3STC0rcBeVk1reUBudINHJLqGL8lwPlqQbC-fZsePB5LAt_qkefY66irLq9gdKB5K3SDZVu6SjHQ/s1600/CIMG2863.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 353px; height: 470px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd_IHgUvcWSrDxzuVOHXWy0TsQUcfsB-ZOS3wP7PhndOtfO3ctBvbt09L_IQ5k1Na3STC0rcBeVk1reUBudINHJLqGL8lwPlqQbC-fZsePB5LAt_qkefY66irLq9gdKB5K3SDZVu6SjHQ/s320/CIMG2863.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667800209602433330" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzBsmi2JpiGVUnKnPxBO5cUfQU-77OBZpiLemfv7T6pXq-KHPhvjwqhigYFQPdpnap3hLVeWvQoGefWFcrwhRFjhUnBFrE8-ujch72yb6L_B3GFnVjd070wEB6obiSzzTCsAJnh_SVa7s/s1600/CIMG2864.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 465px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzBsmi2JpiGVUnKnPxBO5cUfQU-77OBZpiLemfv7T6pXq-KHPhvjwqhigYFQPdpnap3hLVeWvQoGefWFcrwhRFjhUnBFrE8-ujch72yb6L_B3GFnVjd070wEB6obiSzzTCsAJnh_SVa7s/s320/CIMG2864.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667800213876733858" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AJ_TdSN4zfTDTa7p5O1i027XZxRzJqbdWCf7loi3HUJgj8txuvNfO9RlnQV4i7ooiMOvtsgtD4pBUYVZHSU8XVW-ORZxRSwU91dwgWlcLejB0MxW8I2l1mgevfc9ezhKAy_KopBs6bc/s1600/CIMG2869.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 355px; height: 473px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AJ_TdSN4zfTDTa7p5O1i027XZxRzJqbdWCf7loi3HUJgj8txuvNfO9RlnQV4i7ooiMOvtsgtD4pBUYVZHSU8XVW-ORZxRSwU91dwgWlcLejB0MxW8I2l1mgevfc9ezhKAy_KopBs6bc/s320/CIMG2869.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667800197736826722" border="0" /></a><br />After the hay maze, we headed over to the wagon ride. It was pretty chilly so we snuggled close to stay warm. There weren't any animals or anything to see, but there were a lot of lights and a few Halloween decorations.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Racm5VHL1in6B09s90L7WVBrjOEXjiBULKQ026rlqHjSEsM0VFy7kGezJ72ON-fhuGvG7ljpcKsjQ7ITnkfMo50kyxOWd2782JGQo40FSavfDpPzq25jpT7h-KSqomyQeSuvQzLG3zs/s1600/CIMG2871.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 459px; height: 612px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Racm5VHL1in6B09s90L7WVBrjOEXjiBULKQ026rlqHjSEsM0VFy7kGezJ72ON-fhuGvG7ljpcKsjQ7ITnkfMo50kyxOWd2782JGQo40FSavfDpPzq25jpT7h-KSqomyQeSuvQzLG3zs/s320/CIMG2871.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667800195493551634" border="0" /></a><br />Once the rickety wagon ride was through, we headed back over to the pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin to soon become a good ole' Jack! There were so many to choose from, but in the end all 3 of us found one that suited us the best.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHmErR91ZH0G9agnZYoQry6XxBlRnbw2h1Bq-f47edHUZJQpcl_Mq5_lYNMZT1BtXNTgHOHTSjT0xkRWOTsjwGriK7PUIauT7cTMLbG2uVBtM7eR0lWrutWSM7e1nwPXaFT0VwJ9ysss/s1600/CIMG2878.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 458px; height: 343px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHmErR91ZH0G9agnZYoQry6XxBlRnbw2h1Bq-f47edHUZJQpcl_Mq5_lYNMZT1BtXNTgHOHTSjT0xkRWOTsjwGriK7PUIauT7cTMLbG2uVBtM7eR0lWrutWSM7e1nwPXaFT0VwJ9ysss/s320/CIMG2878.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667798884639840706" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1AZgXofrUwgt0LQMl4f1884daeAMs_d7iK71Hjt_-Gy15lEdfRptala10YAEK8fahfFzIu0UEBtY_mrAc-fBN-UHvgowCPfdBpPmW3yFMatljfWlXR9FmA4IK_sJ95uKPu4W3qhocOFE/s1600/CIMG2876.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 475px; height: 356px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1AZgXofrUwgt0LQMl4f1884daeAMs_d7iK71Hjt_-Gy15lEdfRptala10YAEK8fahfFzIu0UEBtY_mrAc-fBN-UHvgowCPfdBpPmW3yFMatljfWlXR9FmA4IK_sJ95uKPu4W3qhocOFE/s320/CIMG2876.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668405369669879394" border="0" /></a><br />After we were all finished and ready to head back home, we had a yummy fall treat waiting at home for us! We were all cold, so we had decided on some hot chocolate, and then on top of that, the pumpkin frozen yogurt we made the night before, was all ready to eat! I know, a little ironic to be eating an icy treat while trying to warm up... but hey, it sounded good to us! and it <span style="font-style: italic;">was!</span> I wish I had gotten a picture of us eating our treats, but I'm pretty sure were all to busy gobbling up the goodness to even think about it.<br />All in all, it was such a fun night. Most nights, it's the same old routine. Have dinner, get some things done around the house, get Xander ready for bed, get myself ready for bed, be lazy for a little bit, and then go to bed as late as physically possible. So to have it switched up a little bit for a change was really good for us I think. I couldn't do it every night, and it was definitely thanks to my crock-pot because the chili was all ready for eating by the time I got home from work. I'm so happy to not be so tied down and busy with wedding planning! We can do more things on a whim and spend a lot more quality time together. That is what family is all about, and I love my little family and every minute I get to spend with them!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJYyZBKzEX6yqG6-47rUOLd2F0H1QG_z24eXiYTzdJQHsXFyRlJTMgGapKEL_Ahu7E-5fI2rcY2EUVHG_1EkSZybU_BIpnnxyw-yX-QTzMsuEzkgYSGr5d4Bg1W9YXA1D8SxGZGBhu80/s1600/CIMG2877.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 462px; height: 346px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJYyZBKzEX6yqG6-47rUOLd2F0H1QG_z24eXiYTzdJQHsXFyRlJTMgGapKEL_Ahu7E-5fI2rcY2EUVHG_1EkSZybU_BIpnnxyw-yX-QTzMsuEzkgYSGr5d4Bg1W9YXA1D8SxGZGBhu80/s320/CIMG2877.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667798889767367410" border="0" /></a>Hollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03214287472674959512noreply@blogger.com0