12/09/2010

Holiday Fun Quiz...

What part of Christmas are you?

Click Me

A fun little quiz.. just because. :)

Would love to hear your results.

My results:



You Are Baking Cookies

You are an indulgent and generous person during the holidays.
It's important to you that everyone you know is taken care of... including yourself!

You are always going that extra mile to make people feel loved this time of year.
From baking delicious cookies to picking out perfect presents, you do a better job than Santa himself.

Yep, I'd agree with this.


11/17/2010

Crock Pot Lasagna

pictures from my phone - not the best quality.

Needing to make a quick meal (hockey game night) that was tasty, filling and could cook all day I was off in search of a recipe to fit that bill.

I found this one and it did receive two thumbs up to give it a whirl (always a plus).

Fast and easy to assemble and best of all it needed no extra attention while cooking.

The recipe called for no-cook lasagna noodles but I just used regular lasagna noodles without a problem.

This created one tasty lasagna that left NO leftovers in this house. *woot!*

The guys just went to town on it and told that I could make it anytime I wanted too.

This one is a keeper for sure!



original recipe

* Exported from MasterCook *


Crock Pot Lasagna

Recipe By :Lisa Micheletti
Serving Size : 6 Preparation Time :0:25
Categories : Main Meal -Crockpot

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 pound ground beef
1 large onion -- chopped
2 medium garlic cloves -- minced
29 ounces tomato sauce
1 cup water
6 ounces tomato paste
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried oregano
8 ounces lasagna noodle
16 ounces part skim milk mozzarella cheese
12 ounces cottage cheese, 4% fat
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese -- grated

  • In a skillet, cook beef, onion and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add the tomato sauce, water, tomato paste, salt and oregano; mix well.
  • Spread a fourth of the meat sauce in an ungreased 5qt slow cooker. Arrange a third of the noodles over sauce (break the noodles if necessary). Combine the cheese; spoon a third of the mixture over noodles.
  • Repeat layers twice. Top with remaining meat sauce.
  • Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until noodles are tender.
Source:
"Taste of Home.com"
Copyright:
"2010"
Yield:
"6 "
Start to Finish Time:
"0:04"
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


NOTES :
  • Tasty and you will never know that cottage cheese was used in this lasagna.
  • I did not use the tomato paste, added only 1/2 the water in the recipe and it turned out nicely.

Boo the Zamboni Driver?

Yes, the story is true and we are still having a good chuckle over it a week later.

Setting: Hockey Game right before the third period.

The zamboni was on the ice cleaning it getting it ready for the third period.

We were sitting in our seats up high and some of DH's friends (they play in a local recreational group) joined us.

Zamboni man was zipping around but we noticed a few little areas that had been missed around the goal area.

Next thing...

BOO! Loud and clear in a pretty quiet arena.

*shudder*

Uh...yeah...so people are looking all around to see who booed the zamboni driver.

Then we hear the conversation between the two friends behind us:

Mr. C: " You just didn't boo the zamboni driver?"

Mr. R: "Yes, yes I did."

Mr. C: "You don't boo the zamboni driver."

Mr. R: "Well, I'm not taking it back and it is going to bother me all night long. I'm a little OCD the ice has to be perfectly clean."

Mr. C: "It's going to help the goalie."

Mr. R: "I don't care, it's not done right."

Seriously, it was quite funny in the end for they were both so very serious over the whole conversation.

One for the books that is for sure. :D



11/12/2010

Cashew Clusters....


Oh.My!

You must run to your local Costco and pick up a bag of these.

These little gems are so addictive.

*drool*



You will not be disappointed.


11/11/2010

Gummy Bear stuck in my head....

No, no sorry not this delicious type of Gummy Bear.


but....

a song.

The boys have been listening to various dance/ techno music lately on Pandora while we are working on their school work.

They have various channels they have created and one tends to play a gummy bear song.

(shh... apparently it was out 2 yrs ago *gasp*)

The silly song is now stuck in my head.

Argh!

You can go watch the song on YouTube just follow the link below.
(yes, it is safe just would not let me embed it into this post.)

Gummy Bear on YouTube Watch Me

See if you don't end up with a gummy bear stuck in your head.

Veterans Day


Take the time today to remember those who have served and are currently serving in the military.

Thank you and you will never be forgotten.



clip art from Vintage Holiday Crafts

11/10/2010

and....

it's November and the second Wednesday of the month.

Ugh...

Wishing I could just slow down time just for a smidgen.

Don't think that is going to happen anytime soon.


10/31/2010

Happy Halloween!


Hope you have a happy & safe Halloween!

On a side note: It appears the boys are done with trick or treating no dressing up this year. *sniffle*


10/29/2010

Strawberry Sorbet - Recipe


So, over the summer I decided to pull out the ice maker and try my hand at some sorbet.

I am not able to eat ice cream very often so every once in a while I like to have some sort of frozen treat.

We had quite a few left over strawberries at one point and I figured why not give sorbet a try.

I have to say this was a delicious, refreshing treat!

Fast to make, set up nicely in the freezer and was such a wonderful treat.

The strawberries were super sweet which just added the enjoyment of the sorbet. :)

I used and followed the recipe from Joy of Baking without a problem.


* Exported from MasterCook *

Strawberry Sorbet

Recipe By: Joy of Baking
Serving Size : 4
Categories: Dessert

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1/3 cup water
1/3 cup sugar -- white-granulated
2 1/2 cups strawberries*
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Place the sugar and water in a small saucepan, over low heat, and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved (about 3-5 minutes). Boil the mixture for one minute then remove from heat. Pour the sugar syrup into a heatproof container, and place in the refrigerator until completely chilled (about an hour or so).

Meanwhile, thaw the frozen strawberries and then place the thawed strawberries in a food processor and process until the strawberries are pureed. Transfer to a large bowl, add the lemon juice and liqueur (if using), and refrigerate until the mixture is thoroughly chilled. (If using fresh strawberries, puree the berries in the food processor, transfer to a large bowl, add the lemon juice and liqueur (if using), and place in the refrigerator until chilled.)

Once the simple syrup and pureed strawberries are completely chilled, combine the simple syrup with the pureed strawberries. Transfer the mixture to the chilled container of your ice cream machine and process according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once made, transfer the sorbet to a chilled container and store in the freezer.

Source:
"http://www.joyofbaking.com/StrawberrySorbet.html"
Yield:
"4 "
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 107 Calories; trace Fat (2.3% calories from fat); 1g Protein; 28g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 0mg Cholesterol; 2mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Fruit; 1 Other Carbohydrates.


10/28/2010

Grilled Pepper Jack Chicken Sandwiches - Recipe

Sorry no picture for this recipe but let me tell you it is one tasty recipe!

Nice zip to the grilled chicken that was a huge hit with the family.

I went out on a limb trying this one for the kiddos are not always fond of spicy foods but they really enjoyed this chicken sandwich.

Quite easy to put together and the taste is one that you will want to make it again. :)


* Exported from MasterCook *

Grilled Pepper Jack Chicken Sandwiches

Recipe By: Linda Foreman
Serving Size : 4
Categories: Main Meal

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
4 chicken breast halves without skin
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
4 slices bacon -- cooked
4 slices pepper jack cheese
4 hamburger bun
4 lettuce leaves
4 tomato -- sliced

  • Sprinkle chicken with poultry seasoning.
  • Coat grill rack with cooking spray before starting the grill.
  • Grill chicken, covered, over medium heat for 4-7 minutes on each side or until juices run clear.
  • Top with bacon and cheese; cover and grill 1-2 minutes long or until cheese is melted.
  • Serve on buns with lettuce and tomatoes.

Source:
"Taste of Home Healthy Cooking Magazine"
Copyright:
"June/July 2009"
Yield:
"4 "
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


NOTES : The original recipe called for onion but we omitted it this time around.


10/27/2010

Pita Project


We had a bit of mom and son fun on Tuesday with Spencer.


He had to make a food that is found in the area that used to be Ancient Egypt, Isreal or Iraq for a portfolio (project) for school.



Since most of his class was doing Hummus (yummy) he wanted to try something different and well, pitas were it.


I have to say he did a great job! I tried once last year and they never turned out, his were a bit on the heavy side (think that was due to high humidity with the storms around) but they puffed open. :)


Shh... he would be so angry with me if he knew I posted these pictures but I am was really impressed with him and wanted to share.



Hungarian Chicken - Recipes

I have always wanted to try and make Hungarian Chicken but never came across a recipe that really interested me.

Finally, I found one and gave it a go.

Easy to create and had wonderful flavor.

Dh was quite happy with this dinner and the kiddos were looking for more.

I know that this recipe will become a staple in our house.

I'm happy that I finally took the plunge who knew this chicken would be so tasty. :)

* Exported from MasterCook *

Hungarian Chicken


Serving Size : 6 Preparation Time: 10 min
Categories: Main Meal

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 chicken breast halves without skin
1/2 large onion -- chopped
1/2 cup tomato soup, condensed
2 tablespoons regular paprika
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large bay leaf
1/2 cup chicken broth*
1/2 cup light sour cream
2 tbsp butter
salt --to taste
pepper -- to taste

  • Combine flour, salt and pepper and place in a plastic bag.
  • Shake the chicken, two at a time in the flour mixture.
  • Melt 1 tbl butter in a large skillet.
  • Saute onion until tender.
  • Remove from pan and set aside.
  • In same skillet, melt remaining butter and brown chicken on all sides.
  • Combine tomato soup, paprika, sugar and salt. Pour over the chicken.
  • Add bay leaf, broth and reserved onion.
  • Cover and simmer 45- 60 minutes or until chicken is tender.
  • Remove chicken to a platter and keep warm.
  • Reduce heat to low, remove bay leaf and stir in sour cream.
  • Heat through 2-3 minutes. DO NOT BOIL.
  • Pour sauce over chicken and noodles.
  • Serve immediately.
  • Serves 4-6

Source:
"http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Hungarian-Chicken"
Copyright:
"Country Woman September/October 1991"
Yield:
"6 "
T(cook time):
"1:00"
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 415 Calories; 33g Fat (70.1% calories from fat); 21g Protein; 11g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 130mg Cholesterol; 726mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 2 1/2 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 6 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES:

Used tomato soup due to no tomato juice in the house.

Subbed in chicken breasts instead of a broiler chicken.

* I use no sodium chicken broth to cut down on the salt.

* You can use a bit more butter if you would like.

I cut the chicken breasts in half and served them since they were quite large.

Recipe was served with No Yolk noodles and used the sauce to cover noodles.


10/26/2010

Yearly Apple Picking Trip


We took our annual apple picking trip way back in early September (I know a bit late but better than never) to Sky Top Orchard and it was a wonderful time. The morning temp was nice and cool with the mist still in the air.


Along the way Nate found a friendly furry friend. :)



Mmmmm.... the trees were simply loaded with apples this year.
Just loved this single one hanging on.



Wagon has baskets and is ready to roll!



Which way to go?!



Yummy... apple butter!

Baskets of apples already picked and ready to purchase.

Doesn't get any better than this!

BTW- I tried a cider donut for the first time and o.m.g. words cannot describe that wonderful warm fried goodness.


Ham & Cheese Potato Casserole - recipe



There is something wonderful on a cool day about a ham & potato casserole - total comfort food.

This is one cheesy, delicious recipe that was a bit hit with this family. :)

Quick, easy and happy fed family with this tasty casserole.

It's the little things that make me happy.


* Exported from MasterCook *


Ham & Cheese Potato Casserole

Recipe By: Kari Adams
Serving Size: 10 Preparation Tim: 15 minutes
Categories: Main Meal

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
10 3/4 ounces cream of celery soup, condensed -- * one can
1 cup light sour cream
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon pepper
28 ounces frozen potatoes O' Brien -- * 1 bag
8 ounces Velveeta Light -- cubed
1 1/2 cups cooked ham -- cubed

  • In a large bowl, combine the soup, sour cream, water and pepper. Stir in the potatoes, cheese and ham.
  • Transfer to a greased 11x7 inch baking dish. Cover and bake the casserole @ 375 for 40 minutes. Uncover and bake 10-15 minutes longer or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Source:
"Taste of Home - http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Ham---Cheese-Potato-Casserole"
Copyright:
"2009"
Yield:
"10 "
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Serving Ideas : tossed salad

NOTES : * I cut the recipe in 1/2 and subbed in the lighter versions of the cheese & sour cream.



10/21/2010

Zamboni is back!!!


This was a wonderful sight last Tuesday night.

I know what you're saying a zamboni?!

Yep, a zamboni!!

You see four years ago hockey pulled out of our town and now it is back!

We are thrilled.

So, tonight we will be sitting in our season seats enjoying the game.

WOO-HOO!!



Lost in the Clouds


Two weeks ago I went back to Pa for a week with the boys.
We left super early and were treated to these wonderful puffy clouds as we headed north.

The mountains you see are the Blue Ridge, it was a beautiful sight with the sun peaking out and highlighting various ridges.

No worries I had Spencer snap the picture as I drove and must say he did a great job.

*You can click on the photo if you want to view it larger.


10/20/2010

Peach Gummy Candy - Review


I love gummy candies and am always on the look out for those that taste like the real thing (fruit).

So, when we were shopping with Nate in our local Japanese store I stumbled across these peach gummies and figured I would give them a go.

Oh.boy!

These tiny little gummies taste just like a delicious juicy white peach.

Seriously.

Don't be surprised if you start looking for a napkin after you eat one.

I am hooked.

These peach gummy candies are made by Kasugai a company in Japan.




You might be able to find them in a local Asian store near you but if not check out this site to get your peach gummies.

:)



Yankee Bean Soup - Recipe



Ahh... it is that time of year again when soups are such a welcome to take the chill out of the air.

Dh and I are trying to eat more soups for lunches and free the remaining for another day, so far so good. :)

There is nothing like a good bean soup to warm you up on a chilly day and this tasty one sure does the trick.

Very easy to make, wonderful flavor and will fill you up. The only aspect I did not like about the soup was the molasses, it really changes the flavor. I liked the flavor without adding the full amount so the next time I make it I will definitely be using only a tiny amount.

Soups on!

* Exported from MasterCook *


Yankee Bean Soup

Recipe By: Taste of Home - Country Extra
Serving Size : 8 Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Categories : Main Meal/Soups

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 1/2 cups dried navy beans
1/2 pound bacon slices -- diced
3/4 cup onion -- chopped
1/2 cup carrot -- chopped
1/3 cup celery leaves -- chopped
4 cups water
2 cups lowfat 1% milk
2 teaspoons molasses -- *see Note
1 1/3 teaspoons salt

  • Place the beans in a Dutch oven; add water to over by 2 inches. Bring to a boil; boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat; cover and let stand for 1 hour.
  • Drain and rinse beans, discarding liquid. Set beans aside. In the same pan cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove to paper towels; drain, reserving 2 tablespoons of drippings.
  • In the drippings, saute onion until tender. Stir in carrot and celery leaves. return bean to the pan. Add water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 3/4 to 2 hours or until beans are tender.
  • Stir in the milk, molasses, salt and bacon. remove about 2 1/2 cups of sour; cool slightly. Place in a blender or food processor; cover and process until pureed. Return to pan; heat.

Source:
"http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Yankee-Bean-Soup"
Copyright:
"Jan. 2006"
Yield:
"8 "
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -



NOTES : The next time I make this recipe I will omit the molasses it made it a bit too sweet for my taste.






10/02/2010

Happy Birthday Kiddo!


Time keeps on marching a bit too quickly for my taste lately.

This cute little guy is now 12 today!

12... one more year and he will be a teen! *gasp*




He is always wearing a smile and looking on the bright side of things.

He if full of giggles and jokes.





Happy Birthday Spencer.



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