All the Small Stuff

Tuesdays At The Table/2 on Tuesday - Broccoli Cheddar Soup

2012-01-30T21:25:00.000-05:00

If you haven't noticed, I try to do two posts on Tuesdays - our usual recipe link up, and Andrea's 2 on Tuesday (the topic for that changes every week). As it would happen, this week's topic is food!! We're being asked what our two "go-to" recipes are.

I am a sucker for orange chicken, and the crock-pot version is so easy and absolutely delicious! I posted the recipe almost a year ago, and you can find it here.

Another recent favorite is Mexican egg rolls. It's a yummy meal that can be altered to accommodate even the pickiest of kids, and it's fun for them to help assemble too! The recipe from a few months ago is here.

Because I can't follow rules - I'm going to share my favorite dessert too. If I get invited to a cook-out and don't have much time to prepare, these suckers are going with me. (Fine. I bring them even if I have tons of time to prepare. But people love them, I swear!) Recipe here!

This week's recipe is a soup that a small group of my friends ask for every time I see them.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

6 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 cup flour
2 cups half & half
3 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
4 cups broccoli florets
1 large carrot, diced
2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Whisk in the flour and cook until golden, 3 to 4 minutes, then gradually whisk in the half and half until smooth. Add the chicken broth, bay leaves, nutmeg, salt and pepper and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, uncovered, until thickened, about 30 minutes.

Add the broccoli and carrot to the brother mixture and simmer until tender, about 20 minutes. Discard the bay leaves. Puree the soup with an immersion blender. Add the cheese and whisk over medium heat until melted.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

And.... TAG {Part II}

2012-01-27T16:27:00.000-05:00

Today I'm answering Kristine's questions. :-) Catch up with part one here.
1. If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only have 3 things, what would you want with you? (-- such a common question, I know).

I'd want my dogs, my Kindle Fire and an endless supply of sunscreen. {I burn like nobody's business!} I'm also making an automatic assumption that food and water will be available to me one way or another. :-)

2. If you had to drown in any liquid BESIDES water, what would you choose?

Um... Kahlua?! I mean, if you're doing to drown, it might as well taste good for a few minutes.

3. If you had to be covered completely in hair (I’m talking every crevasse of your body), or be completely hairless (no hair anywhere), what would you choose?

I'd say hairless. This is probably TMI, but hair just doesn't grow on my legs. I don't have to shave my legs. So to go from that to covered in hair just isn't happening.

4. If you had a kid (or had another kid for some of you), would you want a boy or a girl and what would their names be?

Honestly, I want a few of both. My favorite boy names: Hunter, Evan, Noah, Nathan, Jackson, Callum and Mason. My favorite girl names: Keelan, Sinclair, Peyton, Laurel, Piper, Skylar, Finley and Ainsley.

5. If you won the lottery, what would you do with your winnings (after taxes, obvs)?

I actually have a list for this! Of course it depends how big the winnings are... I want to donate to the ASPCA, a few rescue organizations and to Susan G. Komen. Then I pay off all my debt, send my parents on their dream vacation, build my dream house and help a few friends/relatives with their bills. It should go without saying that I get a few more pups and if I don't have a husband already - adopt a few kids.

6. Who are some of your favorite bloggers as of the time being? Link them to your post!

Please don't be offended if I forget you! There are so many fabulous bloggers that I like to read, interact with on an ongoing basis.

Just a few of my favorites:

Mrs. Jones, Jane, Kasey, We 3 Dachshunds, Dachshund Nola, Preppy Girl Meets World, and Jessica.

7. If money weren’t an object, what kind of car would you buy?

I'd get a brand new version of my current vehicle! I love, love, love my Chevy Tahoe (you may have seen my tweet-fest from last week with Holly extoling the virtues of Tahoes). I haven't had the opportunity to get a brand new one... :-)

8. Congrats! You were just granted an all-expenses paid, two week vacation to ANYWHERE in the world! Where are you going to go?

I'm spending two weeks in the UK. I'm hitting Harrod's, Covent Garden and the National Museum in London. Seeing Stonehenge and Stratford-upon-Avon again. Laughing as the sheep in the Welsh countryside try and push me down hills. Standing at Lands End in the Cotswolds and seeing nothing but water as far as the eye can see. Slowly meandering though Edinburgh - my favorite city in the world. Hanging with extended family in their tavern.

9. If you were an animal, what would you be?

I'm pretty sure that I'd be a dog. I see myself as trusting, loyal and ready to defend the people I love.

10. Who is your celebrity GIRL crush?

Reece Witherspoon. That woman is beautiful, sweet and down to earth. She has beautiful kids, a seemingly adoring husband and a killer sense of style.

11. If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I'd probably go with pizza. BBQ chicken pizza. Am I weird?

And a quick reminder of my questions and who I tagged!

My eleven questions:

If you had to pick a super power, what would it be and why?
What was your best date ever?
You have to move to a new city now. Right NOW! What city would it be?
What current fad to you just abhor?
What's your favorite childhood memory?
You have to choose to not speak for a week or not use social media for a week. Which do you choose?
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? {Or helped you find your hubby/boyfriend}
What is your favorite book and why?
How do you relax?
What's your biggest fear?
What can make you smile, no matter how bad a mood you're in?

"Tag" to eleven people:
Mrs. Jones
Kasey
Jessica
Holly
Beach Bum & Baby
Andrea
Janna
Michelle
Jane
Meg
Jill

And.... TAG!

2012-01-26T07:50:00.000-05:00

I have been tagged by two spiffy {Hey, don't knock my verbiage! I'm bringing back old-school. Like the 50's...so REALLY old school.} ladies MMS & Kristine. I want to give both of these tags the attention they deserve, so I'll do one today and one tomorrow!
The rules:
1) You must post the rules.
2) Post eleven fun facts about yourself on the blog post. {I'm not interesting...but I'll pretend for a minute.}
3) Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post, and then create eleven new questions to ask the people you've tagged.
4) Tag eleven people and link them on your post.
5) Let them know you've tagged them.

Fun facts:

I carry my passport with me at all times. I laughingly say it's so I can flee the country... but I actually have left the USA spur of the moment before.
I'm allergic to coconut. Not life threateningly allergic, but tingly lips/fuzzy tongue allergic.
Generally, I'm very "go with the flow". However, I am a control freak about driving. I much prefer to be the driver than the passenger.
I try to see the best in people. Sometimes, that means I get hurt because I give people too much credit.
I have very little tolerance for people who think the world revolves around them, people who hurt children/animals, and the otherwise rude!
I can. not. wait to find a new job. It means that I can indulge my desire to add a new pup to my little herd. :-)
In real life, I'm extremely shy. That is, until you get to really know me. Then it's hard to shut me up!
My dream jobs: Owner of a doggie day care, author, international tour guide, bakery owner, make-up artist, and press secretary.
I'm a major insomniac. I have a really hard time both falling asleep and staying asleep. Having the dogs sleep with me actually helps me sleep a little... My PCP has a theory that I'll be cured of insomnia when I get married - that having someone sleeping next to me will force my biorhythms to sync into a normal sleep pattern. {BTW, I don't believe her.}
I love jewelry!!! But I'm really picky about it. I prefer ruby (my birthstone) and diamonds best, like simple settings, and only gold.
The "clumsy" gene runs in my family. I should buy stock in black t-shirts because I drop things on myself so often!
BONUS FACT: I learned how to knit when I was five. It's a very zen activity for me. Actually...most creative activities are really relaxing to me.

The questions from MMS

1) What one item of clothing do you have that you absolutely refuse to throw out?
I have a stash of my baby clothes that I want to pass on to my future daughter...then make a quilt out of.

2) What was the greatest gift that anyone ever gave you?
That's a hard one! My favorite gift was my professional grade Kitchen-Aid mixer. {I cried when my parent's gave it to me for Christmas a few years ago.}

The "greatest" gift that I've ever gotten is my dog Peach Blossom. She went to Rainbow Bridge about 6 years ago. Here's the short story of Peachy... My grandpa {mom's dad} passed away Christmas Eve of my freshman year of high school. I was devastated! He was the first of my grandparents to pass away, and honestly one of my favorite people. My parents very astutely knew that I needed something to focus on as I mourned. {and puppy kisses can heal even the deepest of wounds} So, they bought me Peach Blossom! She was such an amazing dog!!!! Everything that a Cocker Spaniel should be - loving, devoted to me, affectionate.

3) Who was your first celebrity crush?
Wow. I could easily tell you who my first real life crush was...but celebrity is a bit harder. I'm going to have to go with Ryan Gosling back from the MMC days.

4) What was your worst date ever?
Oh...here we go. My worst date ever was a blind date {predictable, huh?!}. A very sweet friend set me up - on. my. birthday. and it was an ambush date. Seriously. I thought I was meeting her for drinks. She greeted me, introduced me to my blind date and excused herself. I'm sure that under normal circumstances this man is very nice. However, he had JUST broken up with what he believed was the love of his life. Literally days before. I spent 2 hours nursing a drink while he cried on my shoulder about how he could never life life without Jenna {or whatever her name was}. And then, he was so upset that he didn't pay the bar tab. I had to!

I don't ask a lot. Just please, don't set me up on blind dates on my birthday!

5) What is your one food guilty pleasure?
Once a year or so, I make Reese's peanut butter bars and don't share them with others. I freeze the whole batch and then nibble one or two a night until they are gone.

6) Do you drink? What is your alcoholic drink of choice?
Yes, I do drink. I'm a big fan of Reisling {a super yummy white wine}, mudslides, hard cider, and Alabama Slammers.

7) What was your favorite vacation?
My favorite vacation was the two weeks I spent on a tour of England, Scotland and Wales when I was 16. I went with my mom, my grandma {mom's mom}, my brother and one of my cousins. Every single day was hours spent on the tour bus going to a new attraction/city, getting corralled through countless museums/castles/etc., a forced understanding of what haggis and mead are, fire alarms in the middle of the night, having to use the men's room at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, tales from our guide {who looked exactly like Ringo Starr}, trying to decipher Welsh road signs and lugging my mom's vastly over packed suitcase to the bus each morning.

In other words - it was MAGICAL!! Every single moment of that vacation will be etched into my brain forever!

8) What is one thing that people like that you just don't get the appeal of?
Uggs. I'm so sorry...but I just don't get it. They are bad for your arches, look ugly {in my opinion. I understand that I may be alone in that opinion.}, and are super expensive.

9) What is your favorite tv show?
I don't have just one favorite show. I will share my current favorites! The West Wing {which I'd likely list if you made me pick just one}, Torchwood, Doctor Who, Covert Affairs, Dancing with the Stars, Two Broke Girls, Royal Pains, Criminal Minds, New Girl, Glee, and Bones.

10) Do you sleep with a stuffed animal?
Nope. Just my two live animals. :-)

11) Are there any foods that you won't eat?
I have a "thing" with food textures. I don't like mushy. That means no yogurt, pudding, cheesecake or pie.

Other than that, the only foods I really dislike are: mushrooms, eggplant & brussel sprouts. Oh and I don't do animal organs {tripe,liver, sweetbreads}.

My eleven questions:

If you had to pick a super power, what would it be and why?
What was your best date ever?
You have to move to a new city now. Right NOW! What city would it be?
What current fad to you just abhor?
What's your favorite childhood memory?
You have to choose to not speak for a week or not use social media for a week. Which do you choose?
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? {Or helped you find your hubby/boyfriend}
What is your favorite book and why?
How do you relax?
What's your biggest fear?
What can make you smile, no matter how bad a mood you're in?

"Tag" to eleven people:
Mrs. Jones
Kasey
Jessica
Holly
Beach Bum & Baby
Andrea
Janna
Michelle
Jane
Meg
Jill

The Lucky Winners!

2012-01-25T07:56:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone that entered my giveaway! You make a girl feel loved. :-)
I'm glad I made the decision to do multiple prizes so I can share the joy amongst some really cool ladies!

*Drum roll, please*

Our winners are:
Bert's Bees Gift Pack - Preppy Girl Meets World
$20 Gift Card - Puddles (and her momma) @ We Three Doxies
Custom Hat - Kasey @ The Domestic Hygientist
Soda Stream - Mrs. Jones @ Keeping up with The Joneses'
Mystery Gift - Jessica @ You Are My Color

Now, I could tell you what the mystery gift is. But I want Jessica to be surprised...so I'll wait a few days to reveal the package contents. :-)

Winning ladies, please email me so I can get your prizes out later in the week!

Tuesdays At The Table - Chicken Pot Pie

2012-01-23T21:16:00.002-05:00

Happy Tuesday! If you entered my 500 follower giveaway, come back tomorrow when I reveal the winners. :-)
Here's a little secret... I love the winter. I'm not a huge fan of the snow, but I really like cold weather. I'd much rather be cold than warm, think cold weather means making heartier meals for the family and longer nights to snuggle on the couch with the pups (or a human) you love.

In that vein - I love chicken pot pie! I got this recipe from Pillsbury.com and made a few minor changes of my own. (Below is the original recipe, with a strike through anything I altered.)

Chicken Pot Pie

Crust

1 box Pillsbury® refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on box

Filling

1/3 cup butter or margarine

1/3 cup chopped onion

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

~~1 3/4~~ 2 cups chicken broth (I like either Swanson or Rachel Ray's brand)

1/2 cup milk

2 1/2 cups ~~shredded~~ diced cooked chicken or turkey

2 cups ~~Green Giant® Valley Fresh Steamers™~~ frozen mixed vegetables (of your choice), thawed

1 cup potatoes, par cooked and diced

Heat oven to 425°F. Make pie crusts as directed on box for Two-Crust Pie using 9-inch glass pie pan.

In 2-quart saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion; cook 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender. Stir in flour, salt and pepper until well blended. Gradually stir in broth and milk, cooking and stirring until bubbly and thickened.

Stir in chicken, mixed vegetables and potatoes. Remove from heat. Spoon chicken mixture into crust-lined pan. Top with second crust; seal edge and flute. Cut slits in several places in top crust.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until crust is golden brown. During last 15 to 20 minutes of baking, cover crust edge with strips of foil to prevent excessive browning. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday: Music For All Moods

2012-01-23T18:32:00.000-05:00

It's music week on 2 on Tuesday! One of my favorite subjects, dontcha know?! (Sorry... a bit of my Newfoundland heritage leaking out.) The best way for me to tackle the song choices is via youtube. That works, right? Right!

What is the song you play when you want to get pumped up?

LMFAO is fun and upbeat!

What is the song you play when you want/need to cry?

Amazing Grace makes me cry like a baby. And so do bagpipes. I come from a large Scottish family...so it only makes sense. :-)

What is the song you play when you’re cleaning?

I love, love, love Florence and The Machine. This song gets a lot of play in my house, car, etc. :-)

What is the song you play when you’re exercising?

My excercising these days is mostly walks around the neighborhood with the pups. I love 80's pop and Crowded House plays the Isle of Wight Festival every few years (it's on my dream concert list, for you music junkies!) which inevitable ends up on BBC or Paladium for me to watch.

Now go link up with Andrea!

Wordless Wednesday: Dressed Up & Nowhere To Go!

2012-01-18T07:21:00.000-05:00

Momma, I iz dressed up. Who's hazzing a pawty?

Tuesdays At The Table - Parmesan Honey Pork Roast

2012-01-16T20:20:00.000-05:00

Howdy! Did everyone get a three day weekend? From the looks of stores...it seems that way! I had a few shopping adventures over the weekend.
On Sunday I went to a local furniture store and IKEA with my brother, JC and his girlfriend. I scored an AWESOME deal in the furniture store's clearance center!!!! A $700 chair for $217! Once we loaded up the chair (they won't deliver anything from the clearance center), we moved along to IKEA. Where JC's girlfriend fell in love with an entertainment center. Also a great deal - $229 for $99! And...that's where skills in spacial relations came into play. Of course, the entertainment center is the huge 6 foot x 5 foot model that comes in three boxes. With about an hour of jostling, everything fit into my SUV. Yet ANOTHER reason I'm so happy I drive a Tahoe!

Monday I spent some time with my fabulous (and newly engaged - go visit her blog!) cousin. At Target I scored some cute curtains for my sun room on sale for $5.58! Then we communed with ~~nature~~ the yarn store.

OK, I'm babbling. I'll get along to the recipe now. Oh, but first...did you know I'm celebrating 500 followers with a giveaway? Enter here. :-)

Parmesan Honey Pork Roast

1 (2-3 pound) boneless pork roast
2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup honey
3 Tbsp soy sauce
2 Tbsp dried basil
2 Tbsp minced garlic
2 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
2 Tbsp cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water

Spray slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Place roast in slow cooker. In a small bowl, combine the cheese, honey, soy sauce, basil, garlic, oil and salt; pour over pork. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 160°.

Remove meat to a serving platter; keep warm. Skim fat from cooking juices; transfer to a small saucepan. Bring liquid to a boil. Combine cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually stir into pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Source: sixsistersstuff.blogspot.com via Caroline on Pinterest

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesdays: Red Carpet Fashion

2012-01-16T19:45:00.000-05:00

The adorable Andrea is back in action with her "2 on Tuesdays" linky! She picked a good one this week.... Red carpet fashion. :-)
What celebrities do you think have the best red carpet fashion? What celeb’s closet would you like to raid?

I lurved Reese Witherspoon's dress. Strapless can be risky...but she does it oh so well. The color is fabulous too.

{Picture taken from people.com}

Emma Stone looked so beautiful. Bless her for having the courage to wear that deep of a "V" neckline. I could never do that...but she does, and does it well!

{Picture taken from people.com}

I think Jessica Alba could wear a potato sack and look glamorous! I wish she had worn a slightly less neutral color...but that dress looks like it was made to compliment her shape and features.

{Picture taken from people.com}

Who's closet would I like to raid? Well, I think that the ones who carried it off best on the Golden Globes are some that have a sense of style that I like...

Jessica Alba

Reese Witherspoon

Jennifer Garner

Kate Winslet

Now, head on over and link up with Andrea!

Five Hundred Follower GIVEAWAY!!!

2012-01-16T08:29:00.001-05:00

It seems like yesterday that I started my blog. It was such a thrill to think that even a few people found me interesting enough to follow and/or comment!

That I now have over 500 followers just blows my mind!! I appreciate each and every one of you...and love that you all coo over my pups and try my recipes and don't judge me (too harshly) for my occasional rants/whiny posts.

If I could, I'd make a big trip to hug you all as thank you! But, since I can't - I'm going to do a giveaway. Because there are so many of you, I don't think it's fair to do just one prize.

Prize 1:

Burt's Bees Gift Tin

Prize 2:

A $20 gift card. You choose...Amazon, Target, Starbucks, etc.

Prize 3:

A custom-made hat. (We'll talk to determine what style and color you'd like.)

Prize 4:

SodaStream Fountain Jet

Prize 5:

A mystery item!

And here are the rules:
ONE entry for following me.
ONE entry for following me on Twitter (@allthelilstuff).
ONE entry for Tweeting my giveaway - I won't even tell ya what to say! :-) (leave a comment with the link!)
ONE entry for having either my blog button or Tuesdays At The Table button on your sidebar.

Please make sure to leave seperate comments for each entry, so I can give you appropriate credit!! All entries must be received by Monday, January 23rd at midnight. :-)

Review & Giveaway: Diamond Candles

2012-01-13T00:05:00.002-05:00

I am a sucker for candles! When the opportunity to take part in Diamond Candles review and giveaway was presented to me - I jumped on board.
A little about the candles:
Our soy candles are earth friendly all natural soy, use jars that you can reuse for many other purposes after you candle is burned, and we put a ring worth $10, $100, $1000, or $5000 inside every candle.
The Diamond Candle company is giving away free candles to 30 lucky readers!

Did you catch that?! There's a ring in every single candle! They sent me the candle in "Sunwashed".

About this scent
Remember when you were a kid and you would jump in a big pile of clean and warm sheets, burying yourself underneath? Well we took all those warm sheets out of the dryer and put them in a candle jar. Ok, well maybe not really. But you get the idea. It's Sunwashed, give it a try.

Burn time

125-160 hours of fragrance.

Soy candles burn slow! It took about 8 hours to burn down to the point where I could pry the gold foil wrapped ring out of the hot wax with tweezers. I was rewarded with this little beauty. She's an amethyst and absolutely beautiful! (In case you were wondering...I'd be a very happy lady if I was eventually presented an engagement ring in this style.)

Diamond Candles will be giving away 30 candles, spread across all their sponsored reviewers. Trust me, you WANT one of these candles! Like other candles this size (21 oz.), they run at the $25 price point...but other places don't give you what I equate the the grown up version of Happy Meal prizes.
:-)

You can enter through January 27th, and winners will be announced shortly thereafter!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Help Me Shop...

2012-01-11T01:14:00.010-05:00

Ladies, I'm on a mission to get curtains on all my windows. Let's ignore the fact that I've had the house for over a year and you can see in 75% of my windows! Moving on....First room to be addressed is my sunroom. Seven of the 21 windows in my house are in the sunroom. It makes sense - but you can see into three sides of my house from that room.

It's currently this color (Formal Garden) with white trim. It is the brightest room in my house...I like that it brings the outside in during the winter.

Anywho...I want the room to remain light and airy, but obviously want some semblance of privacy. I'm thinking something like this. Yes? No?

The second room I want to address is my bedroom. The floor is currently parquet (let's not go there...it will be replaced as soon as my budget allows), has white trim and is this color (Larkspur Bouquet).

Because my neighbor insists on having flood lights on all night and it shines into my bedroom - I need either a thick fabric or flat out black-out curtains. {Fingers crossed, my insomnia will be alleviated a bit by having a really dark room.}

Thoughts on these two?

(I think the smaller damask pattern is a little busy.)

(I like this one a smidge better.)

Have any good suggestions on where I can buy tons of curtains for a good price?! :-)

I also want a big fluffy chair like this...

Or this...

Tuesdays At The Table - Pesto Chicken Salad

2012-01-09T21:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday! The lovely people over at MyBlogSpark sent me a coupon link for $1.25 off of 4 cans of Progresso soup. I printed my coupon! You should too. :-)

Does anyone love pesto as much as I do?! Anybody?? This recipe is pretty much perfect in my opinion. You can swap out most ingredients for lower or full fat options, and the celery can be replaced by olives, shredded carrot, bell pepper, radishes...whatever you like!

Pesto Chicken Salad

3 cups diced cooked chicken
1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup frozen green peas (or corn)
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/3 cup mayo
1/3 cup basil pesto

Thaw frozen peas and let drain while you prep the other ingredients. Give your cooked chicken a medium dice (or whatever size you prefer) and put into mixing bowl. Slice green onions celery and add to chicken. Get the peas as dry as possible, then add to bowl with other ingredients.

In a small bowl, whisk together mayo and pesto. Gently fold dressing into salad. Chill before serving. I like to either A. Serve over a bed of greens or B. Serve on toasted whole wheat bread with a little provolone cheese.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

She Said YES!

2012-01-09T11:13:00.000-05:00

You may have noticed a few mentions of my favorite cousin (and one of my best friends) Kristin & her fiance lately. For those of you that have been reading awhile, I've always said "boyfriend". Well...there's a good reason for the recent change in terminology!
The man in her life asked her to marry him!!! Not a day too soon, either. They've been together for 10 years, and make a great couple!

Aren't they adorable?!

To document her voyage from new fiance to wife, she's created a new blog - And I Said Yes!. Come on by and say "hi"! I know she'd love to share the experience with you...and get some great tips for a fun, economical and beautiful wedding too!!

Eff...Marry...Kill - Hawaii Five-O Edition

2012-01-04T07:13:00.000-05:00

That's right, Blonde Undercover Blonde and The Vintage Apple are hosting another round of Eff, Marry, Kill!!

Can I even tell you how excited I was when they announced that today would be FMK day?! For those of you new to the game - go here to see how this linky started.

I went Hawaii Five-O style this time around. What's not to love? Action, adventure...and shirtless men.

Eff... Danny "Danno" Williams (Scott Caan). He's a real sweetie, a total goofball and usually the voice of reason for the team. But the man is still in love with his ex-wife. You can't mess with that.

Marry...Steve McGarrett (Alex O'Laughlin). Hot headed, fiercely protective of those he loves, and just plain H-O-T. They don't show his softer side too often, but it's there just waiting for the right girl.

Kill...Dr. Max Bergman. Really, the character hasn't done anything wrong per se. He's just anti-social and a little odd. I don't necessarily want to make him go far, far away - but they need to make him more likable.

What do you think? Am I crazy?

Wordless Wednesday...My New Table Decoration

2012-01-03T23:37:00.000-05:00

Yeah. So look where I found Meadow. Anyone else notice that she's standing on the dining room table?!?! And it's not even MY table! It's my parents!

I iz pretty, no?! Who says table is bad idea? Iz where food iz, no?!

Tuesdays At The Table - Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

2012-01-02T23:27:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!! :-) I hope everyone had a good time ringing in the New Year. I had a really nice night with my cousin, her fiance & their son. There was a yummy dinner of prime rib, cheesy bacon mashed potatoes & green beans, a little friendly competition on the Wii...and otherwise just enjoying each others company.

Can I say that I'm happy to have made it through the holidays?! I love them...but I'm glad that I have a few months before I need to think about getting ready for the next round. :-)

Did you see that I'm giving away a copy of MyMemories Digital Scrapbooking Software? You should enter! It's so much fun to play with!!

A whole lot of people are vowing to eat healthy in the New Year, so I'm pulling out a healthy, hearty meal that I really enjoy!

Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

1 can (14-1/2 ounces) vegetable broth

1/4 cup water

1 bay leaf

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

6 bell peppers (red, yellow, green - your choice)

4 medium carrots, finely chopped

2 medium onions, finely chopped

1 tablespoon canola oil

2 tablespoons sunflower kernels

2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/8 teaspoon dried marjoram

1/8 teaspoon dried thyme

Dash cayenne pepper

In a small saucepan, bring the broth, water and bay leaf to a boil. Add quinoa. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Discard bay leaf.

Cut peppers in half lengthwise and discard seeds. In a large pot, cook peppers in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain and rinse in cold water; drain on paper towels.

In a large nonstick skillet, saute the carrots and onions in oil until tender. Add the quinoa, sunflower kernels and seasonings; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until heated through. Spoon into pepper halves. Place in a baking dish coated with cooking spray. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T13:36:00.000-05:00

{via}

Happy New Year! I'll admit that New Years' is my least favorite holiday. Call me a party-pooper (Go for it. I'll wait.... done?!), but being single takes a whole lot of joy out of New Years'. Like I need a party to remind me that I'm departing one year and bringing in a new year SINGLE...while surrounded by kissing couples.

Anywho. I do wish you all a very, very Happy New Year! I hope that you have someone to kiss as the ball drops.

I'm not making resolutions this year. Instead, I have a few "wishes". For both you and I!

I wish us:

Joy. The ability to see the joy of the little things even on really bad days.
Health. I wish everyone a hospital-free year (except for those of you having babies!).
Love. The love of finding your other half. The love of your parents, siblings, children, friends and extended family.
A career/job you really enjoy! Doesn't matter if it's as a SAHM, doctor, teacher, etc. I hope you are where your skills lie, you feel appreciated, and you can't help but smile every morning at the prospect of another day on the job. :-)
Perspective. (A weird one, I know!) I want ~~you~~ us to realize how lucky we truly are. We have a roof over our heads, food to eat and most of the time our biggest worries are either paying a bill a few days late or concern over sitting in traffic too long.

Now, go on out there and make this the best year yet!!!

Review & Giveaway: My Memories

2011-12-28T18:56:00.001-05:00

I was recently contacted by Liz @ My Memories. When she told me that she'd like me to review the newest version of their digital scrapbooking software, I was curious. Then she let me know that she'd love to give away a copy of the software too!

I'm a crafty person, so digital scrapbooking is right up my alley. :-) But, trust me, you don't need to have a crafty bone in your body to have some fun with this software. Here's a little example that it took me just minutes to put together! And, of course, I used my favorite little photographic subjects. Aren't they cute?!

In addition to giving away the software to one lucky reader they are offering $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value!

Just enter this code: STMMMS83631

How to enter:
1. Follow my blog. (mandatory)
2. Visit My Memories and tell me what your favorite layout is.
3. Follow me on Twitter
4. Tweet (and put the link in a comment): "Win Digital Scrapbooking Software from @allthelilstuff and @mymemoriessuite! #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/bm4b76b "5. Follow @mymemoriessuite on Twitter.
6. "Like" My Memories on FaceBook.

*Please leave a separate comment for each entry!*

The giveaway is open until midnight EST on Wednesday, January 4th. The winner will be announced shortly thereafter.

Thanks, Santa!

2011-12-27T23:19:00.000-05:00

Was Santa good to everyone?! He was really nice to me this year. :-)

I got:

I'm in love with my Kindle Fire. Santa also brought a pink cover. {P.S. Please tell me all the books I should be reading!!!!}

A2 by Aerosoles Prologue T-Strap Dress Heels (clipped to polyvore.com)

These adorable shoes. I just adore shoes that look like they're from the 30's - 50's.

Gift cards a plenty! Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, a few from Amazon and other fun places. :-)

Some comfy pj's, an adorable sign from my cousin (more news on her coming soon!!!) and a fabulous monogrammed wine glass.

What did Santa (or your family) bring you?

Tuesdays At The Table - Turkey Chili

2011-12-27T12:11:00.000-05:00

*It's just after noon, and I just realized that today's post didn't go up as scheduled. BAD, BAD, BLOGGER!!*
I hope everyone had a great holiday. Mine was filled with family, friends and food. Great combo, right?! Santa also got me a few really cool gifts...but I'll blog about them later in the week. :-)

OK, so you've had your big family dinner and now you're stuck with half a turkey. Time to get creative. Turkey chili time!! I actually make this with chili quite frequently too.

Turkey Chili

2 cups chopped onion
4 garlic cloves, chopped fine

1 cup chopped green pepper

1/4 cup olive oil

Two 35 oz cans stewed tomatoes, crushed

Two 15 oz cans kidney beans, drained

2 Tbsp tomato paste

3/4 cup chicken or turkey stock

2 Tbsp chili powder (or up to 4 Tbsp if you like it really hot)

1 Tbsp ground cumin

1 Tbsp dried hot red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt, plus more if desired to taste

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3 to 4 cups of shredded, cooked turkey meat

Sugar (if needed)

In a large (8-quart) pot, cook the onion and green pepper over medium high heat, stirring, until golden, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring, for a minute or two more. Add a bit more olive oil if needed.

Add tomatoes, tomato paste, stock. beans, oregano, salt, pepper, and cooked turkey meat. Bring mixture to a simmer and reduce heat to low. Simmer, uncovered, for an hour.

Add 1 to 3 teaspoons of sugar to take the edge of the acidity of the tomatoes if desired.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

The 12 Dogs of Christmas

2011-12-24T08:34:00.000-05:00

OK...so yesterday's post was supposed to be my official "Christmas" post. But I just couldn't resist this!

MERRY CHRISTMAS (and YAPPY HOWL-IDAYS)!!!

*Note: I'm not advertising for T-Mobile. I just think they did an awesome job on their version of the song. Oh, and turn on the snowflakes. It makes the video EVEN better!!*

Merry Christmas!!!!

2011-12-23T19:50:00.000-05:00

Wishing you all a very, very Merry Christmas! I hope it's filled with family, friends and fun. :-) And...that Santa got your wish list & brings you everything you asked for!!

I'll be doing a My Memories product review & giveaway right after Christmas! Then, my 500 Follower Giveaway next week too!

Happy Birthday, Beckett!!!

2011-12-21T13:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, Beck-Beck! Technically, your birthday was on Monday...but I know you'll forgive me for celebrating today instead. After all, you did get pup-cakes on Monday!
You did a great job of convincing everyone (or maybe that was me!) to sing "Happy Birthday" to you.

I love you, Beckett Scout!

Tuesdays At The Table - Irish Cream Cake

2011-12-19T19:07:00.000-05:00

Um...how in the world is it just days away from Christmas?!?! I have gotten some fabulous Christmas cards from people. Cute, funny, sweet, pup-filled. A great variety! If your card to me got returned - I'm sorry! My mailman apparently doesn't like doing his job, and has been randomly returning mail as "undeliverable". *Sigh*
This week I'm sharing my mom's (Bailey's) Irish Cream Cake. Soooo good! I don't know where she got the recipe...but if you recognize the recipe, let me know so I can give the right person credit. :-)

Bailey's Irish Cream Cake

1 cup chopped nuts
1 package yellow cake mix
1 package vanilla instant pudding
4 eggs
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup Irish Cream liqueur

Glaze
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup water
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup Irish Cream liqueur

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour your pans. Sprinkle your chopped nuts across the bottom of your pans.

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and pudding mixes.Mix in eggs, water, oil and Irish cream & mix on high for 5 minutes (the batter will be nice and fluffy). Pour batter over nuts and bake for 1 hour.

Cool for 5-10 minutes, then invert on a serving dish. Prick top and sides. Spoon glaze on top and brush on sides of cake. Allow cake to absorb moisture, then repeat until all glaze used.

Glaze - In a saucepan combine butter, water and sugar. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring contantly for 5 minutes. Remove from heat & stir in Bailey's.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

Merry Christmas!!!!

A Call For Help

2011-12-16T23:29:00.000-05:00

You all know that I tend to keep my posts as cheery as possible. And trust me, especially at the holidays...it's my goal to make people smile. Today's post is not light and fluffy. In fact, I need to share a horrifying story and ask for help.

I'm not a "dog blog", but I love my fur-kids with abandon. I take great joy in reading the blogs of Puddles, Frankie, and other talented pups.

Early Friday morning, Sandra and her Pittie Pack suffered a horrible tragedy. Sandra, lost her house to a devastating fire. If that itself wasn't bad enough...she lost five of her seven sweet, sweet pitties to the fire. She was able to get all the humans out, and two of the pups (Bella & Brinks) out, but Coco Chanel, Guerro, Shelby, Tiger & Lucky were hiding under beds and in closets.

I've added the "Chip In" widget to the top right of my blog, and you can also donate here.

I can't imagine the depth of loss that Sandra and her family are currently experiencing. So I ask you to please hug your pups extra tight, and consider donating a little something to Sandra to help her rebuild her life.

Much love,

Dear Santa...A Note From Meadow & Beckett

2011-12-14T20:45:00.000-05:00

Dear Santa Paws

No matter what the momma says, we'ze been really good this year.

Our proof:

We waited til momma walked away before licking her dinner plate. We haz manners, you know!
We haz killed no more than ~~one~~...um...~~two~~...um...three birds & mices so far this year!
Meadow is kind enough to let momma get flip-flops and an umbrella so she can go out with her. What?! We all know that momma has to try and keep Meadow as dry as possible. Otherwise, she'll melt! Or do that hop from paw-to-paw dance cuz she doesn't like being WET.
Beckett is superz good at ringing the "door bell" so he can do potties at 2 AM.
We haz earned our keep as: bed warmers, yard patrol officers, taste-testers (if momma drops while she cooks) and we scare the hoo-hoo out of the mailman!

Now, our ~~demands~~ requests!

Bark Bars! Momma makes most of our treats, but these are really yumz.

Meadow would like a new dress. Last year's is sooo out of style.

New Lupine collars!

Beckett would like a new stuffy. Maybe this cow?

We iz cute Santa Paws. Pwetty peeeeas bring us goodies. We'll behave; we pwomise!

Woof,

Beckett

& Meadow

"Hey Beckett, do you think Santa Paws bought that we were really good this year?" "Hahahahaha! No, Meadow...I think we iz getting coal!"

Tuesdays At The Table - Jam Thumbprints

2011-12-12T22:25:00.000-05:00

Can someone explain to me why time is going so fast?! I love the holidays...and it's just going by too quickly this year! I just got my cards in from Shutterfly yesterday, and hope to have them all out in the mail in the next day or so. If you're not on my card list, but want to be - EMAIL ME!!

This week I'm sharing a cookie that I always make for Christmas. I don't think it's one that would be considered "traditional"...so who knows why I started making them. :-)

Jam Thumbprints

1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup jam (my favorites are blueberry or black raspberry)

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes on high with the electric mixer). Add egg and beat until well combined. Bring mixer speed down to low and add flour. Mix until just combined.

Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment lined cookie sheet, spacing a few inches apart (they spread a bit!).

Moisten your thumb with water and press into the center of each ball, making an good indentation. Place about a 1/2 teaspoon of jam in the center of each cookie. Bake at 350 for 18-20 minutes. Let cool for a few minutes and then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

Review/Giveaway Opportunity

2011-12-12T14:12:00.000-05:00

• This event is Free to you. Open to US only.

• If you are to review and giveaway a product sponsored by Diamond Candles Company, you’ll need to include in your giveaway the sponsor’s Facebook and Twitter mentions, and a couple of keywords within your review.

• If you are to participate in this campaign, Blog about this event on your blog, linking it to my post here.

• Then, fill out this Form with information about your blog.

• Once you’re approved by the Diamond Candles Company, I’ll ask you to confirm your mailing address for mailing products to you for review and giveaway on your blog (FYI: Diamond Candles does all mailing to the winners for giveaway.)

That’s it.

The lovely Nikki Darlin' pointed me Cut Them Coupons, where she originally found the review/giveaway campaign.

Bonus Giggle...

2011-12-11T08:56:00.000-05:00

For all my Star Wars friends...here's a little extra giggle for your Sunday. :-)

The Christmas Quiz

2011-12-10T13:53:00.000-05:00

Many thanks to the fabulous Kristine for letting me ~~borrow~~ steal this quiz!

1. Eggnog or hot chocolate?
Hot chocolate, of course! Have I not mentioned before that I have a problem with the consistency of food/drinks?! That included eggnog. Plus, it has raw eggs in it. ICK!

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just set them under the tree?
He wraps EVERYTHING!! Santa's a smart guy and knows how much we all like unwrapping presents.

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
I know that this isn't going to make sense to most people... but I like both. My tree/house will always be white light only (unless future hubby is adamant about colored lights). I like colored lights. Just not on my house; I'm a purist. :-)

4. Do you hang mistletoe?
Nope. A. It's poisonous to dogs. B. I have no one to kiss!!

5. When do you put your decorations up? It varies each year. Some years I'm really into Christmas; some years I'm not. This year, is very minimal...and the only tree is at my parent's house. *whimper*

6. What is your favorite holiday dish?
Hmm. Now that I think about it - I don't have a favorite.

7. Favorite holiday memory as a child?
Let me start by saying that I adore both sides of my family. But Christmas' with my dad's family were a smidge more memorable because they were out west, and outside the "norm". My two biggest Christmas memories: A. The year we slide backwards (in a car!) down a mountain in New Mexico. B. The year we started the morning with a rare snowfall in TX & got to end the day with running through the sprinklers. :-)

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I was 9 or 10, and I found out at school. I was devastated! Once I found out, I became Santa's bi-otch and was put in charge of wrapping presents.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Nope! It's never been our tradition to do it...but I envy all the families that had the Christmas Eve pj present-opening. :-)

10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
At my parents house is all the ornaments that I got as a child. My tree is usually just red and white ornaments. I like simple!

11. Snow! Love it or dread it?
Actually...both. I love to see it snow. However, I don't particularly like to drive in it, and don't trust other drivers in the snow. Guess New England isn't the place to be living, huh?! :-)

12. Can you ice skate?
It's been a few years since I've tried...but I think so!

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
I love all the gifts that I get. I think my favorite so far has been the industrial model of the Kitchen-Aid stand mixer! As a child, Cabbage Patch Kids topped my list for a few years.

14. What’s the most important thing about the holidays for you?
It's not a single thing...it's the accumulation of ALL the things! The cookies baking, presents wrapping, shopping, giving and getting Christmas cards, hanging with family...ALL of it!

15. What is your favorite holiday dessert?
The holiday desserts that are made, I still pull out and make in the summer...so perhaps I make them less special than they ought to be. So I don't have a favorite!

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
I really like driving around and seeing all the Christmas lights. Sometimes I drag others with me...sometimes I go alone. But I need so see the displays. It's really funny to see some of the garish things people put up mixed in with the astonishingly beautiful displays their neighbors have. :-)

17. What tops your tree?
A star!

18. Which do you prefer: giving or receiving?
GIVING!!! I love giving gifts.

19. Candy canes: yuck or yum?
Definitely "yum". Mint is one of my favorite flavors.

20. Favorite Christmas show?
I love watching "It's Christmas, Charlie Brown" & "Prep and Landing". I also really enjoy seeing some of my favorite shows do Christmas episodes. It's fun!

21. Saddest Christmas song?
The Christmas Shoes

“He said, I wanna buy these shoes, for my mama, please. It’s Christmas Eve and these shoes are just her size. Can you hurry, please? Daddy says there’s not much time. You see, she’s been sick for quite a while and I know these shoes will make her smile and I want her to look beautiful, if mommy meets Jesus tonight.”

22. What’s your favorite Christmas song?
I love most of them! I love the Chipmunk Christmas song, All I Want For Christmas Is You, I’ll Be Home for Christmas…

If you do this little quiz, let me know!

Friday Funnies {via Pinterest}

2011-12-09T06:29:00.002-05:00

It's been a weird week. I could use a laugh. You could too, right?

{via}

"It's OK" - Week 9

2011-12-08T04:36:00.002-05:00

I'm joining Neely and Amber for "It's OK" Thursday. It's been a while since I've partaken in the fun... :-)

It's OK...

...That I totally slacked off and didn't order my Christmas cards until Sunday. Once I get them, I think I can have them in the mail in two days or less. (Or maybe I'm delusional!)

...To be absolutely addicted to iced peppermint white mochas right now. Darn you, Starbucks!!

...To be just a smidge overwhelmed right now.

...That I think that blow up holiday lawn decorations are kinda hideous. And to secretly want to see them banned. Or destroyed. Or maybe just go out of fashion.

...To be thrilled that the knitting in my Etsy store seems to be selling, and that custom projects are rolling in. :-)

...To have been a little disappointed with the season finale of Covert Affairs. It's going to be a long wait until its return!

...That I'm almost certain that I'm getting a Kindle Fire. I'm so *excited*!

What's OK with you this week?

2011 Christmas Card

2011-12-07T06:52:00.000-05:00

The pups and I finally got our act together. What makes it so funny (in my opinion) is what's on the INSIDE! If you want to be on our Christmas card list this year - email me!!

Missing Cookie Christmas Card

Heartfelt: Christmas photo cards and holiday cards at Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Tuesdays At The Table - Saltine Sweeties

2011-12-05T22:54:00.004-05:00

Hi, ladies! Is everyone getting in the holiday spirit? I am!!

In fact, I'm so in the spirit - that I'm extending the discount on my Etsy site! I'll have a few more things up tomorrow, and you can use coupon code: SANTAPAWS2011 to get 10% off. Right now, I'm planning to extend it to Thursday night at midnight EST. :-)

I'm sharing this recipe with you for the second time. I love it that much!! The first time around, was two years ago...and most of you lovely ladies hadn't meandered onto my blog yet.

It just isn't Christmas without at least one batch of these suckers. They are so addictive, that I only make them if I'm going to a party or can eat a few and leave them at someone else's house. :-)

Saltine Sweeties

1 sleeve (approximately) of Saltines
2 sticks of butter
1 cup of sugar
1 package (12 oz) chocolate chips
1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (chopped)

Line a large (12x18) cookie sheet with heavy duty aluminum foil. Place saltines in a single layer to cover the bottom of the pan.

Melt butter and sugar together in a saucepan & pour over saltines.

Bake at 350 for 5-7 minutes (until saltines start absorbing the liquid mixture). Remove from oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips over the crackers. Return to over for a minute or so - until chocolate chips are melted. Use a spatula to evenly spread the chocolate chips over the saltines and scatter the nuts across the top of the chocolate.

Cool in refrigerator for about an hour, remove foil from the bottom of the bars and break into chunks.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

Guest Post: Mrs. Joneses Holiday Season Top 5

2011-12-05T08:02:00.002-05:00

Last week, I promised you all a guest post today. And here she is - the fabulous Mrs. Jones! I just adore this woman, and I think you will too. :-) Today she's sharing with us her holiday season top five!

_____________________________________________

Sweet Cole is letting me kick off this work week by guest posting on her blog, and I couldn't be more excited. I'm Mrs. Jones from Keeping Up with the Joneses. I've been blogging for a few years now, and I've made some fabulous friends through it. A writer by trade, I'm grateful for a place I can just be me - my words, my thoughts, my little place in the blogosphere.

I admit to being a little scatterbrained today. My Crimson Tide is officially BCS Championship bound, and I'm still walking on air JUST a teensy bit. :-)

Today I wanted to share my holiday season top five. You know, the things you'd never skip. The things you love. The things it's not Christmas without?

1) Trimming the tree. I love Christmas, and my house isn't complete without our big tree - and my little tree. Mr. Jones, my wonderful husband, indulges me and let's me put the little one trimmed in pink in our room. It's been my tree since I was a little girl, and I love seeing it as I fall asleep.

2) An extra special day. Dec. 20 is our anniversary. This year, we'll have been married for three years. Time is flying by. It's also our little puppy's "coming-home-aversary". She came home two years ago, on our first anniversary.

3) Family time. Spring is the busiest of seasons for my family, so the slow time we get to celebrate is always extra special.

4) Down time. I'm a lucky girl, and I get around 10 days off at Christmas each year. I love making some extra special meals, hot lunches, and getting our home back in order for the new year.

5) Pulling out the china. My Lenox Holiday china is a sentimental staple. My grandmother passed away when I was in middle school, but she left me a beautiful legacy. Each Christmas, from the time I was little, she gave me a place setting of this beautiful china. While I love Christmas, and china - the love that went into putting my set together makes me smile every time we use it. I leave our little kitchen table set for two all December, because it brightens up the house - and life.

And, of course, I get to pick this Christmas song of the day, so I leave you with Celine Dion's O Holy Night... a favorite song by a favorite artist.

Merry Christmas lovelies! What is your favorite thing about the holidays?

XOXO,
Mrs. Jones

____________________________________

I'm Soooo Late!

2011-12-04T12:58:00.001-05:00

**Update: It's taken much of the day to wrangle the pups and work through a Shutterfly problem (shout out to Mrs. Jones), but the cards are D-O-N-E! I'll unveil the front of them in a few days. :-)**

________________________________________________________

I'm ashamed to admit this, but I haven't ordered my Christmas cards yet. Doing so is my only objective for the day!!!

Wish me luck! And that my dogs hold still long enough for some good pictures... :-)

Well, THAT Was Interesting...

2011-12-03T09:18:00.001-05:00

So, I participated in my first craft fair on Friday night. I happily talked and talked...and talked to all the lovely folks who came to the fair. Handed out my card. Politely thanked people when they exclaimed how adorable my items were.

But I only made THREE sales. And two of them were to family! {Whom I love, adore and am eternally thankful for their support!} Disappointed doesn't begin to describe the feeling as I packed everything back up for the night. I don't even want to know how the lady did it - but she got 4 dozen {at least} Angry Birds hats from a manufacturer! I had the dumb luck of being two tables down from this lady and didn't stand a chance against the cosmic pull of those darn birds. {FYI...I do actually like Angry Bird.}

Luckily...the night wasn't a loss! I learned a few things:

Make an early request to be close to the front door. That way, people need to walk past you coming and going.
This place could have made a killing if they charged the kids each time they participated in the cake walk. {For those of you not "in the know", a cake walk is like musical chairs...but slower and the child in the chosen space when the music stops wins a cake.}
Sometimes, you end up next to REALLY "interesting" people.

My vendor space was directly next to a woman selling Lia Sophia. Great jewelry, and the woman seemed nice enough. And then she started talking... In the first 90 seconds of our introduction, she tells me that she works as a social worker and asks if I'd like to adopt. SERIOUSLY!!!! Five minutes later, she taps my on the shoulder and shares that her undies are too tight!

The vendor on my other side? Tells me that she'll be at another craft fair tomorrow. But one where she think she can sell her homemade bongs!

If nothing else... my evening was entertaining!

Oh, and just because I love you all {seriously, I do!}, you get 10% off my Etsy site through Monday night. Just enter: SANTAPAWS2011 as your coupon code. :-)

I love this song! It's one of my favorite Christmas "silly songs".

Craft Fair!

2011-12-02T07:01:00.002-05:00

Girls, I'm doing my first craft fair tonight!! I'm excited. And nervous! I have no clue why I'm nervous. I mean, I like everything I've made! I just hope they do too!

Oh...and rumor has it that I *may* share with you all a coupon code this weekend for my Etsy store. Details coming over the weekend!

Also, one my favorite ladies will be guest posting on Monday! Anyone want to guess who it is?!

I fuzzy pink heart Glee! Blaine and Kurt's performance of Baby, It's Cold Outside is so adorable and innocent. :-)

Twenty Five Days of CHRISTMAS MUSIC!!!!

2011-12-01T07:57:00.002-05:00

Happy December!!! I'm kicking it off right - with the first day of Christmas music. Some days the video will just be at the bottom of a regular post. Some days I'll be really lazy and just post the video. {What? I'm being honest here!}

And...if you have suggestions, I'm all ears!

I love me some Muppets, so we're starting with their version of "The Most Wonderful Time of The Year". Muppets + Christmas music = AWESOMENESS!

Tuesdays At The Table - Peanut Butter Brownie Bites

2011-11-28T21:55:00.000-05:00

Howdy, ladies! Did everyone have a good Thanksgiving? Mine was small - just me, my parents, my brother & his girlfriend. Definitely different than the Thanksgivings growing up that were filled with screaming kids, barking dogs, football and laughing family. Different...but both are nice in different ways. :-)

Like a crazy person, I went out with Kristin to partake in some Black Friday deals. I don't know about your state...but in MA, it's against the law for people to work on Thanksgiving. So the employees report to work just after midnight, and most stores open between 1 and 4 AM. I got some great deals!!! But this one is my favorite find! (Mine has rose gold, but looks almost the same)

Despite dressing "weather appropriately" - which is completely unlike me, I have one heck of a cold. I'm hoping that it vanishes as quickly as it appeared.

Anywho...I found these on Pinterest and just had to make them. YUM!!! And if you need an invite to Pinterest, let me know. :-)

Peanut Butter Brownie Bites

1 box brownie mix
(Oil & eggs as per brownie mix)
1/2 cup peanut butter chips
1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
3/4 cup peanut butter (creamy)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray or grease 40 mini-muffin cups.

Prepare boxed brownie mix as directed. Spoon batter evenly into muffin cups (about 1 heaping teaspoon). Bake for 13-15 minutes or until top is set and a toothpick inserted into center comes out slightly wet. After brownies are out of the oven, wait for centers to fall. This will happen upon cooling. If not then tap the centers with the back of a teaspoon to make a hole for the peanut butter.

Place peanut butter in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 45 seconds then stir. While brownies are still warm spoon about half a teaspoon of peanut butter into the center of each brownie. Top with semi-sweet chocolate chips and peanut butter chips. Cool completely in pan.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday - Christmas Traditions

2011-11-28T20:58:00.000-05:00

As you can see, between my linky party and Andrea's, Tuesday is a busy day on ye olde blog. :-) This week, Andrea is asking:
What are your Christmas traditions?

For organizational sake - I'm going to break this into two parts. You're going to notice ~~some~~ total overlap!

1. Traditions growing up...

A new ornament each year. Typically, my brother and I got to pick ours out the first weekend in December. Then, I had the job (sometimes with, but usually without) of decorating the tree.
Putting up the Christmas tree. Always live! Always had some sort of mishap. Remind me sometime to tell you the story of the year we had a tree that was sprayed by a moose.
Drives to see Christmas lights. Some of the communities around here go ALL OUT!!! There are neighborhoods that charge admission and blare music as you drive through.
Putting up the nativity scene. I loved putting up my mom's nativity scene! It was 70's cheesy...but it's a part of me.
New shoes! Growing up, I always got a new pair of shoes for Christmas. I'm sure it was a practical gift...but it was always one that I looked forward to.
Advent calendars. Growing up they were those awesome chocolate-a-day calendars. It sure worked to get me excited!
Passing out the gifts. As a kid, it was always my job to pass out the presents. As my mom put it - "You've always been really organized and diplomatic".
Christmas morning pictures. I inherited my shutterbug gene from my dad. He was forever harassing us with the camera! As you can tell... I was occasionally less than amused!
Christmas breakfast. Dad always made waffles and cinnamon rolls for Christmas breakfast. It's one of my fondest memories.
Christmas movies. Our play list included How The Grinch Stole Christmas, It's Christmas Charlie Brown, A Christmas Story & National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.
Midnight Church. I have wonderful memories from high school of this. Why? Because I was in the church choir and singing in the dark via candlelight to the congregation almost always moved me to tears. Tears of joy; tears of nervousness (Hey, give a clumsy girl a candle while she's in a choir robe and y'all better start PRAYING I don't burn the church down!); tears for all the people I so desperately miss.
Christmas morning pictures. I inherited my shutterbug gene from my dad. He was forever harassing us with the camera! As you can tell... I was occasionally less than amused!

2. Traditions now...

A new ornament each year. Due to "budgetary cutbacks", I won't have my own tree this year (which is fine...it's just me in the house, really). But, I sure as heck will be getting a new ornament!
Putting the tree up. This year, I'll only deal with my parents tree...which is now artificial. And much, much smaller than the trees of growing up. When I have kids, I'll make sure they get the same huge, live trees that I did.
Drives to see Christmas lights. See above.
Putting up the nativity scene. When my dad's mom passed away, the nativity scene my mom had made her found its way back east. I cry when I put it up. But it's good tears.
New shoes! It's one of my few treats to myself, but I always buy a new pair of shoes for Christmas. :-)
Advent calendars. These days, I use the Jacquie Lawson computer advent calendar. This year the theme is "London". I'm in love!
Passing out gifts. Still my job, gang! I know that at some point I'll get married and the logistics of Christmas day will change...but until then, I'm enjoying being the keeper of the gifts.
Christmas morning pictures. These days, I'm usually the one holding the camera & the pictures are mostly of the pups ripping into their gifts and showing off new toys/outfits.
Christmas breakfast. If you guessed that I'm the one making Christmas breakfast the past few years, you'd be right. :-) But you all know how much I love to cook!! Typically, I hold true to the waffles of yester-year. I think I might like to mix it up this year. Maybe cinnamon roll waffles? Maybe french toast casserole?
Christmas movies. Movies from my childhood are still on heavy rotation. I've also added Love Actually (one of my FAVORITE movies, period), the new version of How The Grinch Stole Christmas, A Muppet Christmas Carol, The Polar Express, Serendipity & Elf.
Church. I still go...but I'm not in the choir. For years, I had a job that prohibited my attendance at rehearsals. Maybe I'll find my way back to the choir. Maybe!

What are your Christmas traditions?

Giving Thanks

2011-11-23T23:44:00.000-05:00

I did a "giving thanks" post last year. Why not carry on the tradition, right?!

I'm thankful for:

My parents. This has been a trying handful of months for them. Mom got her knee replaced & Dad has been dealing with both a work injury and a neck issue that should have been fixed years and years ago. I'm thankful that they are letting me support them the way they need right now. It isn't easy being the one to nurse your parents, help them through physical therapy or jump in and make sure that paperwork got completed...but it's needed sometimes. Being an adult sometimes means cancelling your plans and sitting at the hospital for days at a time. As a result, my parents and I have more of a open relationship than most I've seen.
My brother. The kid gets off light in the "parent care" category...but he always picks up when I call him for help. He'll show up at a moment's notice to shovel a driveway, mow the lawn or let me vent. He has been one of my biggest supporters as I try and find what the next chapter of my life brings me.
Bloggers. I'm a really shy person. Despite being really friendly, it's sometimes hard for me to make friends. Had you told me a few years ago that at some point I'd have 500 blog followers, I would have thought you absolutely nuts! Some of you fabulous ladies have become vital parts of my day/week. (I apologize if I space out and don't mention you below)

Mrs. Jones is my favorite Google Talk buddy. I love that we don't say "hi" anymore...just jump right into the "guess what I just heard", "OMG, you'll never believe this", or "What's for dinner?" conversation.
I fuzzy pink heart my dog people - Jessica, Kristine, Bethany, Camille, Caroline & Holly. Nothing says "love" like a pup that always wants to be with you. I'm grateful that others feel the same way I do.
Sporadic tweet fests with Jane & Jill. New moms & doctors in training have some pretty interesting hours!
Even if they don't mean to - Mrs. Smith and Jessica are great at showing me all the fun finds that I covet, but can't have. I live vicariously through their great purchases!
Assorted crafty talk with Amber & Shell.
I'm not a momma yet, but I hope I can be as awesome as Andrea & Beach Bum. :-)
Every single who contributes recipes & nutritional articles to Tuesdays At The Table. Who knew that others like to cook as much as I do?!
Celia is seriously the most optimistic girl I know!!
I have met so many really cool people that like me just the way I am. I can't wait to meet more people! And...I will do a giveaway to celebrate having 500 fabulous followers. I'm thinking after Christmas. Mmmkay?! And if you'd like to sponsor a giveaway, let me know!

Kristen & Heather aka Princess & Queen. My favorite cousin and her best friend are two of the people who I know will poke me if I get too quiet, cajole me into laughing, knitting or wine drinking when I need it most, and otherwise being the people who I know I can tell anything too and not have them judge me - too much. :-)
Bad days. Yes, it sounds awfully dumb to be thankful for bad days. But I really believe that bad days put everything into perspective. Having a great day after a bad day, makes it SO. MUCH. BETTER!
My dogs. Nothing makes me smile like their little faces. Their barks, squirming little bodies, wagging tails...love them, love them, love them!

What are you thankful for this year?

Oh...and all you lurkers out there?! I'm thankful for you too. Please leave a comment to say "hi" so I can come show some love to your blog too!

Thanksgiving Parade

2011-11-23T12:07:00.000-05:00

Saturday was the Thanksgiving parade in Plymouth, MA. And, as "America's Hometown", the parade is huge. As in, Is it over yet? How about now?! huge. Which I happen to like!! Marching bands came from New Jersey, Arizona and Quebec (and I'm sure more that I didn't notice).

Let's face it, Thanksgiving Day rolls around and you end up spending your day in the kitchen cooking rather than getting to watch Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. Plus...must of us can't get to NYC on a whim.

Lately, I've had a few people ask what it's like living so close to Plymouth Rock and where Thanksgiving originated. Honestly, until someone asked - I never really thought about it. Around here we take for granted that we can stroll by Plymouth Rock on a Friday night, or a summer day, or any time we darn near feel like it. As children we *groan* at the prospect of going to Plimouth Plantation for the third year in a row as a school field trip.

Now that I have given it some thought - I think it's amazingly cool that our area is so steeped in history. That children here have an understanding of who the Pilgrims were, exactly why they came here, and how they arrived. I wish more kids got to experience that. Maybe next year, you'll think of coming up for a visit?!

Anyway...here are a few (OK, about a dozen) pictures that I stole from Kristin. She was the smart lady that remembered her camera. Me, not so much!

Period costume abounded...

You can't tell from the picture, but those stakes were huge. And pointy!

We had dozens of beautiful horses trot past us.

The Boston Police Celtic group. Bagpipes make me tear up, y'all!

I don't think we went more than 5 minutes without musket fire.

Some of these costumes were ah-ma-zing!

Fife and drum corps are pretty cool...

What's a parade without floats?! They had to bring this one down to fit under power lines. And, um... SQUIRREL!!

I felt bad for the guy in this piggy costume. There's no doubt that he fell at some point.

All branches of the military marched. I was blown away by the Army's float. Those bronze men? ACTUAL MEN who stood still for the whole parade. Behind them is a real helo, and the names of those KIA are listed along the sides and back of the float.

SANTA!!!!!

Don't these three look thrilled?! Chilly...but thrilled?!?!

Tuesdays At The Table - Next Day Turkey Soup

2011-11-21T18:46:00.000-05:00

Holy moley! How is it Thanksgiving week already?! I'll be posting about the Plymouth Thanksgiving Day parade on Wednesday. Let me just say - it was awesome!! A "What I'm Thankful For" post will be up Thanksgiving Day too (if Blogger cooperates!).

As we get ready to spend time with our families (and partake in some Black Friday shopping), let me take a moment out and say how thankful I am for you lovely ladies! That you come and visit me each week simply astounds me. Your recipes and nutritional articles are impressive, insightful and inspiring! From my house to yours - HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

OK, so you've got your big family meal done, and now you need to start determining how you're going to use the leftover 15 pounds of turkey in the next few days. I mean, I can't be the only one that thinks people are going to eat more than they actually do...right?

Might I suggest Michael Chiarello's turkey soup?! It is soooo delicious!

Next Day Turkey Soup

2 quarts chicken broth
1 turkey carcass, all meat removed
1 onion, halved, plus 1 onion, minced
1 carrot, halved lengthwise, plus 1 carrot, minced
1 whole stalk celery, plus 1 more stalk, minced
2 bay leaves
3 cups dark turkey meat
2 garlic cloves, smashed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 carrot, minced
1 stalk celery, minced
3 cups leftover cooked Thanksgiving side vegetables (example: Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, green beans)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage leaves

Put chicken broth, turkey, onion halves, carrot halves, 1 celery stalk, and 1 bay leaf in a large stock pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer about 1 1/2 hours. Finely dice the remaining onion, carrot and celery and reserve.

Dice the turkey meat. Make sure meat pieces are no larger than the size of a soup spoon. (If preparing soup the next day, be sure to store leftover turkey meat in an airtight container before placing it in the refrigerator, top with 1 or 2 ladles full of broth to keep meat moist.)

Before straining broth, remove large bones and carcass with tongs. Strain the broth through a sieve, covered with wet cheese cloth. Discard the solids. Transfer broth to a bowl set in a bath of ice water, which will cool the broth quickly and help keep it fresher longer. This can be done the night before and stored in the refrigerator until the next day.

In a large soup pot, heat garlic cloves in the olive oil. Allow to brown slightly and add minced carrots, celery, and onion. Sweat over medium-low heat until softened, about 7 or 8 minutes.

Dice the leftover vegetables (here Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and green beans). Add the chopped sage to the soup pot along with the turkey broth and the remaining bay leaf. Bring to a simmer. When simmering, add left over veggies and diced turkey meat to the soup. Bring it back up to a simmer. Finally, add the potatoes/sweet potatoes to the center, and gently push them down. Turn the heat off and cover. Allow to sit and steam for 5 to 7 minutes.

Let simmer for 5 more minutes and serve.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday - A Thankful Blogger

2011-11-21T18:33:00.000-05:00

I have a whole post ready for Thanksgiving morning of things that I'm thankful for. But, I love Andrea, and I think that being thankful for blogging is totally worth a post all its own. :-)

Her question this week is: Why are you thankful for blogging?

For me, this is both an easy and a hard question. I'm so thankful for blogging because I've found a whole bunch of people that I can relate to. Lovely ladies from across the country and internationally. Sweethearts who are new moms, fur-moms, proud aunts or maybe grandmas. Amazing and joyful people who are SAHMs, doctors, lawyers, teachers or stuck in an office all day. People that supported me through my brother's deployment, through buying my house & through leaving my job. You all made it ok to admit that sometimes, It's not OK; that you got royally screwed over; that taking a few minutes to let out the tears doesn't make you weak. That sounds simple right?

Well, the question is hard for me because it's difficult to quantify the value of this!! You just can't put a value on the friendship and support you've received.

For a while, I wanted to tell the "outside world" about my blog. But, ultimately, I decided against it. Non-bloggers just don't understand how close you can get to other bloggers. I LURVE YOU ALL!!! I'm not hiding my blog. I've let a close circle of friends know that it exists, where it is, and encouraged them to blog as well. However, I just can't put up a status update on FB when I've made a blog post. Some of the things I share here just aren't for general consumption. I'm a pretty private person... I don't need a guy that I liked in 7th grade knowing what health problems my parent's are having, the drunk dialing incident of late or many other things that I freely share with you all. Quite frankly - I trust all of you with my thoughts and feelings. Knowing that you'll encourage me rather than leave a nasty comment or get snarky.

So, that's why I'm thankful for blogging. YOU!!!! Each and every one of you! I hope I can support each of you the way you've supported me.

Eff...Marry...Kill - Covert Affairs Edition

2011-11-17T09:32:00.000-05:00

I fuzzy pink heart Blonde Undercover Blonde & The Vintage Apple's game of Eff, Marry, Kill. If you don't understand the rules, click here for the version that started it all. :-)

I'm guessing that with the latest Twilight movie coming out any second now, that a good segment of lovely ladies will use them as this week's focus. Hopefully, I can bring just a smidge of variety your way! :-)

Now, before I start - I need to say that I love! No, adore! No, am obsessive about Covert Affairs! Such an awesome show. Who wouldn't? You've got your action, your adventure, a hint of CIA fun, some cute guys, a little family time & I'm already pulling for Annie & Auggie (Piper Perabo & Christopher Gorham) to end up together.

Now, without further ado:

Eff... The character Jai Wilcox (Senhil Ramamurthy) is charismatic, sexy and self-assured. Plus he's the son of the former head of CIA Clandestine Affairs. It makes him perfect for a fling, but not for a long term relationship.

Marry... Auggie Anderson (Christopher Gorham). The dude's got it all (tech expertise, a sense of humor, hand to hand combat expertise from Army Special Forces, and he always knows when he's needed)- except his sight. And even that he lost in the Army defending our freedom.

Kill... Ben Mercer (Eion Bailey). Sure, he's a CIA guy. But he's forever dragging Annie into bad situations and then disappearing into thin air. Not the guy you want to have around!

What do you think? Agree? Disagree? Now, join in and link up!!

Tuesdays At The Table - Pumpkin Pecan Cake Roll

2011-11-14T20:47:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday! Thanksgiving is coming! For the next few weeks, I'm going to share a few recipes that have been holiday hits in my house. :-)

Have family recipes that you'd like to share?!

Oh...and have you checked out my Initials Inc. online party? It's running through Tuesday night, and they have some fabulous things! A few people can expect to get personalized gifts this year!!

Pumpkin Pecan Cake Roll

3 eggs
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup canned pumpkin
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 cup finely chopped pecans
confectioners' sugar

FILLING:
2 (3 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Line a greased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan with waxed paper grease the paper; set aside. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs for 5 minutes. Add the sugar, flour, pumpkin, cinnamon, baking powder, ginger, salt and nutmeg; mix well. Add lemon juice. Spread batter evenly in prepared pan; sprinkle with pecans.

Bake at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until cake springs back when lightly touched. Cool for 5 minutes. Turn cake onto a kitchen towel dusted with confectioners' sugar. Gently peel off waxed paper. Roll up cake in towel, jelly-roll style, starting with a short side. Cool completely on a wire rack.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the filing ingredients; beat until smooth. Unroll cake; spread filling over cake to within 1/2 in. of edges. Roll up again; place seam side down on a serving platter. Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday - Pet Peeves

2011-11-14T20:03:00.000-05:00

Howdy!!! I'm linking up with the super Andrea again for 2 on Tuesday. This week, she's asking:
What are your two pet peeves?

That's an easy one...I think!

1. Rude people. You know the type of people that I'm talking about. They ask you a question, then talk over you. They forget you exist until they need something from you. They wear an oppressive amount of perfume, then wonder why you're wheezing.... I like to believe that I'm considerate of others as much as humanly possible. Is it bad to hope others would act the same way?!

2. Bad drivers. Accidents happen. It's part of life... But if you're getting in an accident so often that your Insurance Agent asks "What did you do this time?", chances are, it's not that the curb jumped out and bit your tire...you're a BAD driver! So use your turn signal, obey the traffic laws (at least, most of them) and hopefully keep from paying an accident deductible so often!

Drop by and share your pet peeves with the group!

They Should Just Hire Me!!

2011-11-13T21:36:00.000-05:00

The local hospital, that is!

I've been spending quite a bit of time there in the past year or so (mom's cancer surgeries & chemo; her knee replacement; dad's knee replacement; a few friends having babies; assorted grandma-related ailments).

And...I've spent my weekend there. Here's the short version of the backstory:
Dad got hurt at work on Halloween morning. As a result of the injury, his right arm from shoulder blade to fingertips was numb. About a week ago, something happened and his right hand swelled up. Wednesday his PCP said that if the swelling didn't go down by Friday, he had to go to the hospital. You know where this is going, right?!

So, he's been in the hospital since Friday and like a good daughter I've pretty much spent my weekend up there too. Fingers crossed - they'll spring him Tuesday.

And...I got to meet my friend's baby on Thursday! Sweet little Olivia is about two months early, but doing absolutely wonderful in the NICU. :-) Isn't she beautiful?!?!

Olivia M. D.

November 5th

2 lbs, 15 oz.

15 1/2 inches

Initials Inc. Product Review and PARTY!!!

2011-11-10T20:42:00.000-05:00

I met Sonya a while back through Twitter. Recently, she started as an Independent Consultant for Initials Inc. When she tweeted about it - I was immediately intrigued. A few clicks online and I wanted everything in sight!!! So when Sonya gave me the opportunity to do a product review, I jumped right on it! With Christmas right around the corner - Sonya and I thought it was a great time for an online party too!

She gave me a great list of things to choose from, and ultimately I got SQUARED AWAY (in Vinings) with pink embroidery. It's "me", don't you think?! I'm sure it's no surprise to you - but I use it to organize knitting projects that I'm working on. So much prettier than the plastic bag I was using. :-)
There are so many amazing things at Initials Inc.! Shipping is fast! My favorite part of Initials Inc is that almost everything can be personalized...and personalization is FREE!!!! You heard that right - free. Not only that, but you have multiple fonts and thread colors to choose from. I can't be alone in embracing the Preppy - Southern - highly organized desire to have things monogrammed. Right?!

Every have the problem where you and a few of your besties come to the same party with the same shopping/tote bag? Get the STORY TIME tote personalized, and you'll never have the problem again.

Better yet, get THE DISH and not only will your food arrive to parties still the right temperature - it will arrive with style.

Trying to get your kiddos to put their laundry in the hamper? Having one with their name on a BIG BIN might be just the motivation they need!

Trying to keep your mail and coupons sorted? I'm a big fan of the MARVELOUS MAGNETIC POCKET. Pop it on the fridge and you're ready for your next trip to the store!

I really hope that you'll take a few minutes to peruse Sonya's site and possible order a few holiday gifts. :-) Go to Sonya’s Initials Inc. page, and click on “Shop” or “My Events”. Then simply click on “Shop Now” and shop to your heart's content! When you check out, keep in mind that the items will be sent directly to your front door, so enter your shipping address (and phone number for any order issues) accordingly.

There's also a great Customer Shoportunity in November! Spend $35 and get one of their CINCH DUFFLES for $16.50 - That's 50% off!!

If you have any questions, please reach out to Sonya at sonyajsells@gmail.com. Have fun shopping!

Wordless Wednesday - Canine Models

2011-11-08T21:22:00.000-05:00

I iz pretty, no?! Welcome to my runway debut... I make good model for Momma's Etsy creations!

And I iz handsome! But sweater iz too big... "Bring in the SPANIEL, Momma!"

Yep, fitz me! Now make me one in PINK!

Tuesdays At The Table - Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

2011-11-07T19:58:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday!!! How in the world is Thanksgiving two weeks away?!?! The year is completely flying by! It just occurred to me today that I wasn't doing NaBloPoMo (National Blog Posting Month) for the first time since starting this blog. Oops! I'll be on the ball next year...

Instead, I'm going to embrace the holiday season. Bring on Christmas!!! And in that spirit, I will be doing a product review and hosting an online party for Initials Inc. I'll tell you all about my sweet friend Sonya, the awesome products and ordering details later this week! The online party is currently set to run Thursday (November 10th) through Tuesday (November 15th). Stay tuned. :-)
Last Friday, my friend and I were watching Giada DeLaurentiis. This tart recipe came on, and seeing as I love both chocolate and hazelnuts - I just had to try it!! It is so yummy.

Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups peeled, chopped, and toasted hazelnuts
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips (about 1 cup)
1 cup corn syrup
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 store bought frozen pie crust, defrosted

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

In a large bowl, mix together the sugar and the flour. Add the eggs, hazelnuts, chocolate chips, corn syrup, butter, vanilla, and salt. Stir well. Pour the mixture into the pie crust. Bake for 1 hour.

Cool the tart for at least 30 minutes before serving.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday - Dear Santa

2011-11-07T19:14:00.001-05:00

It's time for another round of 2 on Tuesday with the awesome Andrea!! This week, she's asking us...
What’s on your Christmas wish list? What do you want to receive from Santa?

I wish I could limit my list to two items. But, if you're going to ask Santa for presents - GO BIG!!

I only got my Kindle last Christmas...but I REALLY want the Kindle Fire!

I think I'm the only woman in the world without a Clarisonic Mia. And I waaant one!

I definitely need a new pair of black flats. I like these Coach ones...but really, as long as they are cute, I'm not picky!

Right now, I only have my sectional in the living room. I'd like a big fluffy chair too. :-)

I adore my Coach tote. It's almost time for a new one.

You just can't go wrong with a cashmere cardigan in a fun color!

The new OPI line of Muppet colors are adorable. I'd happily model any of them on my little fingers!

And...a boy in a big red bow. Adam Levine, perhaps?!

What's on your letter to Santa?

Baby Boom!

2011-11-05T19:20:00.000-04:00

Holy baby boom lately! I know at least a half dozen lovely bloggy friends who are currently expecting! And about the same number of friends/family outside the bloggy-hemisphere.

In the past week, we've welcomed two need little ones to the world!

I proudly announce the arrival of Kamdem Wacey B. He's my cousin Desi and her hubby, Tony's first little one. :-)

October 30th

8 lb., 4 oz.

19 inches

And... one of my besties, Heather welcomed her second little one early this morning. Until I get her OK, I won't share name or picture. But I will ask you to keep the sweet baby girl in your thoughts. She's about 2 months early, but from what I hear doing just great!!

Puppy Sharing....

2011-11-03T15:03:00.000-04:00

As in, most of the time - Beckett & Meadow know how to share. But, their Halloween costume...not so much.

Meadow ripped the hat right off his head. "My turn, barky boy!"

Tuesdays At The Table - Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

2011-10-31T20:33:00.000-04:00

Did everyone have a good Halloween? I got fewer trick-or-treaters than expected (about 30 or so), but the kids were soooo cute!!!
The highlight of the day was dressing Beckett and Meadow up for Halloween. Unfortunately, we *cough, ME, cough* couldn't find their planned costumes. So they had to take turns sharing their back up costume - as a LEPRECHAN!!! Good thing their grammy bought it for them when she was in Ireland a few years ago. :-)

This week I'm sharing my pumpkin chocolate chip muffins. So tasty!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 (16 ounce) cans pumpkin
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
3 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips

In large mixing bowl beat eggs, sugar, pumpkin, vanilla and oil until smooth. Mix dry ingredients together and mix into pumpkin mixture. Fold in chocolate chips.

Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake at 400 degrees for 16-20 minutes.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

Follower Fest

2011-10-28T17:44:00.001-04:00

Erin at Moore To Love linked up with Follower Fest today...and I thought to myself "Hey, I'd really like to meet new people!", so I'm going to link up too!

I guess I should tell you a little about myself, huh? Well, my name is Cole. Short for Nicole...but, I prefer Cole.

I grew up in two towns south of Boston. I lived the first 8 years of my life in the birthplace of Tollhouse cookies. Then my parents bought my grandparent's house. Anyway....I bought a house last year in the first town. You shall hear of it referred to as "the money pit" from time to time. It's a freakin' disaster, but it's MINE!!!

After seven and a half years at a large healthcare company, I left in June. I guess you could say that I'm at a career cross-roads. And I'm totally OK with that. Most of the time.... :-)

While you're here, you'll get to see my weekly blog hop (Tuesdays At The Table), my fur-kids (miniature dachshunds - Meadow & Beckett), whole lots of crafts and other randomness...and a giveaways from time to time.

Meadow

Beckett

Leave me a comment so I can come visit you too!!

Eff....Marry...Kill

2011-10-27T12:31:00.000-04:00

I've seen some of my bloggy buddies playing this game every week. So, I'm taking the plunge and joining in for the first time!

Because I love NCIS: LA so much, I'm making them my first edition. :-)

Eff. Mary Deeks is scruffy and funny. Sweet. Oh...and HOT.

Marry. Callen is just a little dangerous...but really loyal. And have you seen those eyes?!?!

Kill. I'm glad they took Nate off the show. He was so freaking annoying!

What do you think? Did I make the right choices?

Tuesdays At The Table - Twixy Shortbread Bars

2011-10-24T18:15:00.000-04:00

Hi Gang. I love seeing all of your recipes each week! The group continues to grow - which makes me soooo happy. :-) In fact, I think we now have a few men in our ranks. Hi guys!!

I would like to encourage everyone to stop by and visit other contributors! I'll be honest in saying that I don't get to every single recipe most weeks...but I'm trying to make that a priority each week.

This week I'm sharing a recipe emailed along to me from my mom. I'm not sure where she got it. Otherwise, I'd definitely be linking the website!

Twixy Shortbread Bars

1 1/2 cups butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 13.4 ounce can dulce de leche
3/4 cup whipping cream
6 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons light-colored corn syrup
12 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped (or use chocolate chips)
3/4 teaspoon vanilla

1. In a large bowl, beat 1-1/2 cups butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar and 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla; beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer; stir in any remaining flour. Cover and chill for 30 to 60 minutes or until dough is easy to handle.

2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 13x9x2-inch baking pan with foil, extending foil over edges of pan. Press dough evenly into bottom of prepared baking pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until top is lightly browned. Cool in pan on a wire rack.

3. Spread dulce de leche in an even layer atop cooled crust. In a medium saucepan, heat whipping cream, 6 tablespoons butter, and the corn syrup to boiling over medium heat, stirring to dissolve syrup. Remove from heat. Add chocolate and vanilla to saucepan. Do not stir. Let stand 5 minutes. Stir until smooth. Let stand 10 minutes at room temperature to cool slightly. Slowly pour chocolate mixture over dulce de leche layer, spreading evenly. Cover and chill 1 to 2 hours or until chocolate layer is set. Cut into bars.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

Shutterfly WINNERS!!!!

2011-10-23T16:03:00.000-04:00

A big "thank you" to everyone that participated in the Shutterfly giveaway! There's nothing I like more than helping someone get something for free. :-)

I used Random.org to pick my winners. Unfortunately - my screen capture didn't work. Sorry!
#35 - Holly @ Precisely Holly
#4 - Sonya @ A Day In The Life
#20 - Heather @ Life, Love, Laughter

You'll all add me to your Christmas card list so I can see what you've picked, right?! Anyway, please email me {allthelittlestuff at gmail dot com} so I can get you your discount code! Congrats, ladies!!

"It's OK" - Week 8

2011-10-20T11:31:00.000-04:00

Hey there! It's time for Neely and Amber's "It's OK, Thursday". And without further ado...let's get to business!

It's OK...

...To have taken a few week off from "It's OK" Thursday. My lists were sounding kinda whiny.

...To be super thrilled that Shutterfly is letting me give away FREE cards to three people!! Come enter, will ya?!?!

...That I am now addicted to Revenge. I ~~blame~~ credit Neely!

...To be really hopeful that people starting checking out & buying stuff from my Etsy shop!

...That I'm contemplating another tattoo...but don't have the money for it right now.

...That I may not be giving out candy at my house this year. I got 8 trick-or-treaters last year. EIGHT. And my parents need help handling the hoards of munchkins that show up at their doorstep.

...That the drunk dialing incident was the funniest thing that's happened to me in months!

What's OK with you? Go link up with Neely and Amber!

Tuesdays At The Table - BBQ Ranch Chicken Dip

2011-10-17T22:21:00.000-04:00

Howdy, ladies!!! Before I get down to recipe sharing...a little business.

I'll be cleaning up the buttons on my page. Many lovely ladies have packed up & left their blogs behind and I need to show who I am reading. Or maybe I just like to pretend to be organized. Please let me know if you want your button on the list. :-)
Shutterfly is letting me give away 25 FREE cards to THREE people. Come enter! The winners will be chosen this Saturday/Sunday.
I'm donating money to Susan G. Komen this month when you buy anything PINK from my Etsy shop. Breast Cancer awareness month is near and dear to my heart. Want to help me choose what to make next? Vote in the upper left corner. :-)

And...on to the food. I love ranch, BBQ and chicken. Put them all together and I'm in heaven! You can throw this together for your football gatherings in one commercial brake. A winner in my book. :-)

BBQ Ranch Chicken Dip

1 package (8 oz) Neufchatel cheese, softened
1/4 cup BBQ sauce, any flavor
6 oz. chicken (cooked and cubed small)
2 tablespoons Ranch dressing
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup bell pepper (chopped)

Spread cheese onto bottom of a microwaveable pie plate. Pour barbeque sauce over the neufchatel cheese. Top with cubed chicken.

Microwave for 1.5 - 2 minutes on high, until everything is heated through. Top with remaining ingredients and serve.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday - Favorite Restaurants

2011-10-17T22:16:00.000-04:00

It's that time again! Time for Andrea's 2 on Tuesday. This week our effervescent host is asking us: What are your two favorite restaurants?

Hmm...
1. Friendly's. Yeah, it's a chain. Yep, you often hear a screaming child or two. But I'm in love with their BBQ chicken sandwiches and peanut butter cup sundaes. Plus they have waitresses who actually pay attention to whether you need another drink. You just can't say enough about good customer service. I'm a good tipper when you treat me well. :-)

2. The Cheesecake Factory. Another chain restaurant. Is that kinda pathetic? But we all know that it would take you a year to eat through the menu, right?! I think I could eat their orange chicken every day for a month. Here's where I get some incredulous stares....I don't like cheesecake. I do, however, covet their "Linda's chocolate cake". They have the ONLY chocolate cake that I'll eat. (Huh, this makes me sound like a really picky eater...)

Go visit Andrea and tell us about your two favorite restaurants!

It's A Shutterfly Christmas (AGAIN!!!)

2011-10-15T08:24:00.003-04:00

Last year, I was lucky enough to have Shutterfly make my Christmas cards for me. It was a breeze to customize the card template I chose and I was amazed at how fast my shipment arrived. Here's the card I ended up choosing!

So when they approached me* again this year, I was super excited!! And you should be too! Here's why... They are letting me share the promo code for 25 FREE cards of your choice to THREE winners. Aren't they the best?!?!

They have the best selection of Christmas cards. Here are a few of my top contenders.

So cute!

Cuz with my dogs...it's a valid question. :-)

Doggy love!

And...more doggy love!

Of course, Shutterfly has so much more to offer than just Christmas cards. They have calendars, greeting cards and photo gifts (aka gift tags, canvas prints, etc) too! A mug with the picture of a someones adorable little munchkin just screams awesome gift. :-)

Here's how to enter (each entry must have a corresponding comment):

Follow my blog
Follow me on Twitter
Vote on which card I should choose (and if you think I should choose something NOT shown above, give me the link to what you think I should choose)

All comments need to be received by Saturday, October 22nd at midnight EST and winners will be revealed very soon (aka in a day or less) thereafter.

Oh. Are you a blogger? Want a chance at 25 free cards this holiday season? Register here: http://goo.gl/DDw7Q

(That means if you're one of the lucky winners AND register with them, you get 50 FREE cards! Woohoo!!!)

And...if you want to be on my Christmas card list this year, email me!

**Disclosure: I am getting 50 free holiday cards in exchange for this post.**

Isn't That Pinteresting...Dachshund Edition

2011-10-14T23:09:00.000-04:00

Hi. Iz Beckett. Momma said I could post, so here I iz. Momma really like that Pinterest thingie...so I picked a few to share.

Maybe I can haz for Hallo-weenie next year?! {Source}

Momma doesn't think Snoop Dogg really haz dachshund...but iz still funny. {Source}

Momma says I ~~large~~ little and in charge...so dis makes us giggle. {Source}

We're having a hard time finding a copy of dis movie. Any suggestions?! {Source}

Dats all I haz for now. Woofs and kissies,

Beckett

Bloggy Updates

2011-10-13T18:07:00.000-04:00

I'm going to be doing some bloggy housekeeping over the weekend/early next week. If you could do me a quick favor - I'd appreciate it!!

Just let me know if your button should be in my "favorite blogs" section!! That's all. :-) Oh, if you feel so inclined - I've put my first poll up too. A vote on what I should knit and list on Etsy next would be awesome.

A more substantive post tomorrow. Or not. Maybe Beckett will continue his "notes from the crate" series. :-)

Tuesdays At The Table - Chocolate Hazelnut Swirl Bread

2011-10-10T20:59:00.000-04:00

Happy (belated) Columbus Day, gang! Did everyone get to have a long weekend?

I mentioned a few months ago that my anniversary of hosting TATT was coming up...and then I completely forgot about it! It's been just over two years that I've been hosting now. Boy, time flies!!! Every week as I post, I think of sweet Andrea - the original host of TATT and one of my dear friends. :-) In honor of my bloggy anniversary, I'm re-posting the recipe from my first week as TATT host.

Chocolate Hazelnut Swirl Bread
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream

Topping

1/3 cup finely chopped hazelnuts
1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
3 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

In a large bowl, cream the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in extracts. Slowly add in the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt as well as the sour cream.

Pour half of the batter into a greased 9x5 loaf pan. Combine the topping ingredients; sprinkle two thirds over the batter. Pour in the remaining batter, then top with remaining topping. Press topping down lightly.

Bake at 350 for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for about 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire cooling rack.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday - Fashion Faux Pas

2011-10-10T20:55:00.000-04:00

The lovely Andrea has posed a really good topic this week. Tell me your two biggest fashion mistakes.

Oh, lordy. I think we all make some questionable fashion mistakes. If you didn't....I'm really envious. Or you're lying. {No judging}While I'm not willing to show you pictures of my biggest fashion mistakes (sorry!), I will definitely share them with you.

The first one was perming my hair. I always had nice, shiny hair. But it's stick straight and baby fine. So, my mom's hairdresser convinced me to perm my hair in 6th grade. At first I loved it. It was new and different. I had the ringlets I'd coveted for years. My mistake was letting that hairdresser keep perming my hair for 3 years! By the end, I was just a mop of frizzy grossness. I felt a little like this...

{source}

My second ongoing faux pas was indulging in the leggings crazy of the mid 90's. I'm a chubby girl...and hindsight is 20/20. Though, I always kept everything covered up. Now that the leggings/jeggings craze is passing through again, I have some very strong feelings on them.

No one above a single digit size should EVER been seen in public (this excludes the gym, where it's socially acceptable) wearing leggings/jeggings.
If you must wear them - always make sure you're wearing a top that covers your private parts. Camel toe isn't pretty, and it's sooo much more than I need to know if you happen to be wearing leggings.
If they're so thin that you can see through them - you aren't wearing leggings. You're wearing footless tights. Go put on some pants, Princess!
No stilettos. Just, no. And no socks unless you're wearing boots so you won't see them.

They should look like this...

{source}

Not this...

{source}

If You Drunk Dial....

2011-10-09T16:40:00.000-04:00

...I AM going to mess with you!!!

Friday night I had the distinct *honor* of being drunk dialed by the same person four times between 1:45 and 2:30 in the morning. Luckily, I'm an insomniac and was wide awake. Unluckily (for him), I found this really funny and decided that to have some fun.

1:48 (Number I don't recognize)
Me: Um...hello?
Him: Hi babeeeeee.
Me: Who is this?
Him: Oh, babyyyyy. Youz zoooo funny. Iz yo man.
Me: Wrong number. Kthanxbai.

1:59 (Same number)
Me: Yes?
Him: Ah you maaaad at me?
Me: Nope. I just don't know who you are. Who are you anyway?
Him: Iz Mike. *hiccup* Ya man!
Me: Nope.
Him: But babyyyy. I loooove you.
Me: Right. Who are you looking for?
Him: Don't be like dat. You know I'z looking fa you.
Me: What's my name?
Him: Zara.
Me: Sara?
Him: You know yo name, babyyyy.
Me: Nope. Not me. Bai.

2:08
Me: Hi, Mike.
Him: I loooove you baby.
Me: I'm STILL not Sara.
Him: Zara, you my woman. I lub you zo, zo much.
Me: Mike?! I'm not Sara.
Him: You the best woooman ev-ah.
Me: Really? That's sweet. Tell me why you love me so much.
Him: You haz the prettiest hairz. Is red, but brown, but red.
Me: Auburn?
Him: Hmph. Zo pretty. Like fi-ah.
Me: And?
Him: You so un-dumb
Me: Anything else?
Him: You haz the biggest boobies (he used a different word).
Me: Good to know. But I'm still not Sara and I'm watching a movie.

2:24
Me: Hi Mike. I'm still not Sara and if you keep calling, I'm going to keep laughing.
Him: But I loooove you. Why can't I callz you?
Me: Mike, if you keep calling me I'm going to track down your girlfriend and make her break up with you. Or maybe I'll just tell her that you love her flaming auburn hair and her big rack.
Him:You reallly not Zara????
Me: No, I'm really not Sara. Adios!

He is now saved on my phone as "Mike the drunk dialer". I'm presuming that his girlfriend's number should have been programmed into his phone. So what I really want to know...is how did he get me to begin with?!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2011-10-07T10:45:00.002-04:00

As everyone is aware - October is breast cancer awareness month.

Most of you know that my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2009 (even though I didn't tell you all about until January). Well, two years have passed. She's lost a breast. Had a port put in...and subsequently taken back out. Gone through chemo, HER2 treatments, nausea, exhaustion and a week long hospital stay for a pulmonary embolism. But, SHE'S HEALTHY!!!!

Breast cancer runs in my family. Mom had it, grandma had it, multiple great aunts, my second cousin and based on geneological research - a whole crap-load (yep, technical term) of other women in my family have had it. Most beat it. Some didn't.

That makes me and other women that I love a whole lot high risk. But here's the good news...I go to all my mom's check ups with her at the Dana Farber Cancer Center. Heck, I even tweeted how much I want to steal one of the love seats in the radiology waiting room!! I have a great relationship with the doctor who I'd choose to be my oncologist. Hopefully, I'll never need to use that info! But it's a comfort to know that I have it.

In the meantime, I'm adamant that people try to find a better cure. Something that doesn't involve the over a year and a half of active medical treatment that my mom went through. But that takes money. I'll never have the millions that it takes to fund research. But I can do my part to support the cause.

I'm happy to announce that anything in the "THINK PINK" section of my Etsy store has an associated donation to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. It's not a lot...but it helps!! And every woman needs a little pink in her life. Right?! :-)

Tuesdays At The Table - Banana Biscotti (Dog Treats)

2011-10-03T21:47:00.000-04:00

Know how I mentioned last week that my fabulous friend Andrea would be hosting a giveaway of one of my hats? Well, it started! Head on over and enter!!

This week, we're going to the dogs! I love to bake. Why shouldn't the pups reap the benefits?!?! They're just as deserving (if not more so) as everyone else I cook for. :-)

Banana Biscotti

5 cups flour
1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 egg
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 ½ cups banana, pureed
2 teaspoons vanilla
water

Place dry ingredients in large bowl. Make a well in the center. Blend egg, oil and banana together. Add into the well in your dry ingredients, and start combining together. Add water, one teaspoon at a time as needed (you want a thick bready consistency). Knead by hand on a well floured table until mixed thoroughly. Form into logs approximately 2" - 2 1/2" high. Flatten, so that log is 3" - 4" wide by 1" high. Place on non-stick baking sheets or lightly greased ones. Bake 30 - 35 minutes at 325. Remove and cool for 10 minutes. Slice into 1/2" - 3/4" slices. Place on baking sheets and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool. Store in airtight container.

Beckett tested. Meadow approved. :-)

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday - Childhood Toys

2011-10-03T21:38:00.000-04:00

I love Andrea's linky party. Almost as much as I love mine! :-) And she is such an amazing friend!!! She's hosting a giveaway of one of hats this week! Go visit her!

This week, the brilliant and adorable Andrea is asking:

What were your two favorite childhood toys?

Sit N' Spin. Fun toy!!! When else is it funny to get your small child dizzy? (Just kidding. Kinda.) Really, I think that this toy was the beginning of my love of roller coasters. The exhilirated, slightly fuzzy feeling is still fun today. :-)

Sweetheart Barbie. Marketed for Valentine's Day...but oddly enough, I got this Barbie for my birthday when I was seven. Yes, my memory is that good! She has the traditional flowing blonde Barbie hair, super pretty dress and she made kissy noises.

And now...I'm going to show you one of my favorite playmates. This is Munchkin. Her real name is Miscotobe - a completely made up name that originated as Misty, Scottie and Toby; the three boy dogs that family members had recently added. I'd show you my other favorite playmate, Misty...but I can't find a picture of him at the moment.
Anyway...BEST playmates EVER!!!! They let me dress them up, do horsy rides when I was really little and they would actually go down the slide of my swing set with me. As you can see, I've ALWAYS been a dog person. Hahahaha!

Shameless Self-Promotion (aka I Opened My Etsy Store!!)

2011-09-30T14:41:00.000-04:00

You've all heard me say that I'm going to open an Etsy store. Guess what?!?! I did!!

Lots of stuff will be going up in the next few weeks. You can also expect an announcement in the next week or so on how my Etsy site will contribute during Breast Cancer Awareness month.

In the meantime... you can find a few cute things like this!

Come visit!

"It's OK" - Week 7

2011-09-29T11:11:00.000-04:00

It's that time, ladies!!! Neely and Amber's "It's OK" link up!

It's OK...

...That the Red Sox concluded their season in a spectacular fashion. A spectacular FAIL. We waited 86 years for a championship win, then got two in the past decade. There's always next year!

...That the staff at A.C. Moore and Michael's are starting to know me by name. If my Etsy store takes off, maybe one of the stores will give me a bulk discount?!

...To not fully understand Klout. I try to give people +k on a daily basis and am thrilled if anyone gives some to me. I'll figure it all out. My score keeps going up, so I must be doing something right. Right?? :-)

...That I totally avoided Facebook all summer, and now feel the need to rejoin society.

...That it seems like there's something in the water. Lots of people have just had babies or have just announced their pregnancies. My time will come. Eventually!

...To be addicted to Twitter. I'm still thinking in sentences longer than 140 characters, so it's all good.

What's OK with you this week?

Tuesdays At The Table - Apple Blueberry Crisp

2011-09-26T21:02:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday!! Before I move along and share this week's recipe, I want to mention that the lovely Andrea will be hosting a giveaway. And not just any giveaway...one of the hats from my Etsy store. Go on, get your cute little self over there to enter! *NOTE: The giveaway isn't posted yet, so I've given you a link to Andrea's main site instead of a specific post.*

It's apple season folks! I haven't gone apple picking yet...but I have some of my favorite recipes ready and waiting for when I do go. :-)

Apple Blueberry Crisp

4 cups sliced peeled tart apples

2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup thawed orange juice concentrate

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

TOPPING
1 cup old-fashioned oats

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/3 cup cold butter, cubed

In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Transfer to a 9-in. square baking dish coated with cooking spray. For topping, combine the oats, brown sugar, flour and cinnamon. Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly; sprinkle over fruit.

Bake at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until topping is golden brown and fruit is tender. Serve warm.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday - Shows I Miss

2011-09-26T20:31:00.001-04:00

Happy Tuesday!!! I'm linking up with Andrea for 2 on Tuesday again. You know I must love her if I willingly break my rule against posting twice in one day!

This week, Andrea is asking What two shows that have gone off the air do you miss the most?

Such an easy one!!

1. West Wing! My favorite show ever. I love politics - so the witty banter, policy issues and current events were right up my alley. Plus, Aaron Sorkin does the whole "walk and talk" banter better than any show I've ever seen. I wish they'd do a reunion show or movie. I really want to know if Josh ended up in politics after being Chief of Staff, if Josh and Donna had kids, how Toby is doing, and if President Bartlett succumbs to MS. Don't you?!?!

2. The Muppet Show. The old school, singing, dancing, guest stars MUPPET SHOW! I'll always be a child at heart and have the Muppet versions of The Banana Boat Song, Lime In The Coconut and 12 Days of Christmas on my iPod.

I'd also like to mention that the super sweet Andrea will be giving away a hat from my *NEW ETSY STORE*!! Go visit her and enter. :-) *NOTE: The giveaway hasn't started yet, so I'm directing you to Andrea's main site instead of a specific post.*

Dear _____

2011-09-23T18:34:00.000-04:00

Dear Red Sox
Getting to the finals was supposed to be easy. Instead, you blew your lead and are now fighting for the wild card. You can do it!! Just remember, you get paid way too much and Boston fans are loyal but vicious. So suck it up, buttercup and WIN!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Comcast
Please fix the onDemand credits for Harry's Law. It says "Nick Corddry" instead of "Nate Corddry". While there are some that won't know the difference...this is his home town. WE NOTICE.

But bless your little heart for putting The Big Bang Theory, Castle and Body of Proof onDemand. There are so many new programs I want to watch, and it's nice to know that my DVR doesn't need to shoulder the load for everything.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Dear NASA
Y'all are still rocket scientists, right? Just checking. So, if you could tell us where that space junk is going to land - we'd all appreciate it. While getting killed by space junk makes a good internet/news headline, DEAD is not all that cool.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Klout
I think I love you. I got some adorable Moo mini cards for free, and its fun seeing my score go up. But I'm confused by you. Exactly how are you deciding that I'm influential on "moms, music and movies"?

Love,
Me

"It's OK"...Week 6

2011-09-22T09:40:00.000-04:00

I am loving Neely and Amber's weekly "It's OK" link up. They are also hosting a two week link up about all things fall. Check them out!

It's OK...

...That I haven't done any of Neely and Amber's fall link up yet. I will! Seriously. Be on the look out!

...To have lost a few followers lately. Honestly, it bums me out a little, but I realize that I can't make everyone happy.

...That I'm soooo loving fall premier week. I'm like a kid at Christmas!
...That I would pretty much kill someone for a cupcake right now, but don't want to make them myself.

...To just be jumping on the Klout bandwagon. And someday...I'll actually figure it out!

...That I'm losing my voice. I feel fine! So when I smile and nod, I'm not being rude. Mmmkay?!

...To be hyped up at the possiblity of getting a really cool job. (Cross your fingers for me!)

Tuesdays At The Table - Creamy Spinach Lasagna

2011-09-19T21:38:00.000-04:00

Howdy, girls!! Did everyone have a fun weekend?! I did!! I got to hang out with Kristin Friday night, got to celebrate my Grandma's 89th birthday on Saturday and got tons of cooking, cleaning and organizing done on Sunday. :-)

This week I'm sharing a recipe that I tinker with each time I make it. I absolutely love spinach, and if I'm cooking for my mom (a vegetarian) this makes her happy - most people I know are looking for a little meat in their lasagna. To make the lasagna more "protein friendly", I tend to add ground turkey that I've given a quick browning to.

Creamy Spinach Lasagna

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 1/4 cups chopped onion (about 2 medium)

2 or 3 garlic cloves, minced

1 (16-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed, drained, and squeezed dry (or 2 and a half cups of FRESH spinach)

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

3 cups 2% reduced-fat milk

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper

1 (26-ounce) jar marinara sauce, divided

Cooking spray

12 cooked whole wheat lasagna noodles, divided

1 1/2 cups (6 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella and asiago cheese, divided (or the "italian blend" cheese)

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, cooking 10 minutes or until onion is browned, stirring occasionally. Stir in garlic and spinach. Reduce heat, cover, and cook 3 minutes (until spinach is tender). Set aside.

Combine flour, milk, salt, black pepper, and red pepper in a small saucepan, stirring with a whisk. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat and simmer 1 minute, stirring frequently. Add 2 cups milk mixture to spinach mixture. Cover remaining milk mixture, and set aside.

Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce in bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles over sauce; top with half of spinach mixture. Top with 3 lasagna noodles, 1 cup marinara sauce, and 3/4 cup cheese. Layer 3 more lasagna noodles, remaining spinach mixture, and remaining 3 lasagna noodles. Top with remaining marinara sauce. Pour reserved milk mixture over the top, and sprinkle with remaining 3/4 cup cheese. Bake at 375° for 50 minutes or until lasagna is browned on top.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 on Tuesday - Fall Shows

2011-09-19T14:30:00.000-04:00

This week, the uber-cute Andrea is asking us "What two shows are you most looking forward to?". Seeing as I'm just giddy with the excitement of a new TV season, I think that this is an AWESOME question!

We all know that I can't stick to the requested two shows, but I'll try to keep the list short (or maybe I'll revisit this topic again in a few weeks!).

New Girl. Zooey Deschanel is so adorable. I just love that Fox has both Deschanel girls in series this year! Now, I guess I should admit that I've cheated. My cable provider has the premier episode onDemand already - so, I just had to watch it a time or two already. FABULOUS!! So funny!

DWTS. Generally, I don't enjoy reality TV (yes, I know I'm weird!). This show just sucks me in. The stars are pretty much lower-tiered, but it is amazing watching them learn to dance. So much fun! Plus, there's Maks. And this year..his brother Val too!

NCIS. I am a sucker for crime shows. I think that this is NCIS' 8th season, and every year, they come up with great new material. It never gets old! Does anyone else want Ziva and Tony to end up together as much as I do? And...while I'm talking about NCIS, shout out to NCIS:LA too. A vastly different show, but absolutely of the same quality and caliper. They better save Hetty, or I'm going to be one cranky girl!

Glee. Little secret - I was one of the music geeks in high school. Band, marching band, chorus, theatre, etc. This show is awesome, and it reminds me that despite the teenage angst, high school was actually fun (kinda)! I just wish that I was as talented as these people!!

*Bones is high on my list too. But..it doesn't come back for a few months, so I'll talk about it then!*

"It's OK"....Week 5

2011-09-15T16:38:00.000-04:00

You guessed it, right? It's Thursday and I'm linking up with Neely and Amber!

It's OK...

...That I totally forgot about the Target for Missoni release until I heard about it on the news. By then, it was WAY too late. :-(

...That I'm waaay late in linking up with Amber and Neely today. It still counts, right?

...To not understand everyone's fanatical love for pumpkin spice lattes. I like pumpkin! Just not in my caffeine. Hand me an iced white chocolate mocha ANY day!

...To be secretly (or not so secretly) thrilled that this will be Desperate Housewives last season. That show has jumped the shark!

...That Carmella (my parent's cocker spaniel) killed a mouse and brought it to me last night. My summer just isn't complete until some small backyard creature has been hunted.

...To have been in a craft store three times in the last week. Yarn is my FRIEND!!

What's OK with you this week?

Tuesdays At The Table - Ranch Mac & Cheese

2011-09-12T18:51:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday, ladies. This weekend, I read quite a few 9/11 posts. It was an honor to read all of your stories, memories and feelings. Such powerful emotion in each post... I'm sure we'll all never forget that day.

Weather is cooling (at least in theory), and I'm now in search of the perfect mac & cheese. This one caught my eye on Taste of Home!

Ranch Mac & Cheese

1 package (16 ounces) elbow macaroni
1 cup 2% milk
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1 envelope ranch salad dressing mix
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon garlic pepper blend
1 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Colby cheese
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
1/2 cup crushed saltines
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a medium sauce pan, combine the milk, butter, dressing mix and seasonings; heat through. Stir in Monterey Jack and Colby cheeses until melted. Stir in sour cream.

Drain macaroni; stir into cheese sauce with the saltines. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

2 on Tuesday - Week 2

2011-09-12T18:32:00.000-04:00

I'm linking up with the fabulous Andrea for her weekly meme. She's such an awesome blogger!!

This week's question...

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what two items would you wish to have with you?

And, of course, I have more than two items that I'd NEED with me!

1. My dogs. My pups are my kids. I can't imagine being stuck on a desert island and not having them. They are sweet and cute and cuddly and vastly entertaining. Plus... secretly, I wouldn't want anyone else taking care of them long term. I know their little quirks and they know mine.

2. A laptop. (Of course, this is presuming that that I magically get wifi!) Read a book, write a book, read all your blogs, keep up on all my favorite shows on Hulu, and get some cute Youtube videos. There's not much you can't do with a computer!

3. Coffee. I am a caffeine addict. Sure, I drink more water than anything else...but there's no replacing that first glass of ice coffee each day!

Now...if the question was "How would you build your own colony?", I'd say that I'd bring all my friends and their families to the aforementioned deserted island. My friends and their spouses are some talented people. We'd all have our taxes done, have fabulous constructed homes, some great graphic design to decorate the island, and have a teacher among us to educate all the kids, etc. We would be the premier in newly created colonies! :-)

I Remember...

2011-09-11T00:02:00.001-04:00

Like many of you, I want to share where I was on 9/11.

Even ten years later, I remember the day like it was yesterday. I was the Office Coordinator in the financial district of Boston. That morning, I got in early, turned on the TV to the "Today Show", and called the O.C. in the NYC office. You see...that morning I was having second thoughts about being there instead of her. I had been given the opportunity to be temporarily placed in our Manhattan office, and had turned it down in favor of staying close to my family. The timing just didn't feel right.

So, I called her to chat while we both waited for staff to roll into both of our offices. We said our "good-byes" just past 8 AM. I should have turned the TV off at that point. But I didn't.

When news flashed that a plane had flown into the North Tower, programming went live to the World Trade Center. I watched live while a second plane flew into the South Tower. In a matter of minutes, the world as I knew it was shattered.

We quickly learned that both of those planes came from Boston. MY airport. The place where I felt SAFE to travel. I was horrified. And, as fighter jets flew overhead, our office was evacuated & we were all sent with the masses to go home and be with our families.

I will never forget the feeling of being packed into the subway that day. You just couldn't help but hug the people that surrounded you. It didn't matter that they were strangers. It didn't matter that you may never see that person again. You gave comfort and received comfort from those around you.

I was one of the last people that my friend ever spoke to. That frightened me for a long time. I felt guilty that it was her, not me. Now, I just hope that our joking gave her a little peace.

I also want to share with you how that day changed me. And how it didn't.

In most ways, I'm still the same person I always was. I learned to trust my gut more. Something told me not to take that job; told me not to turn off the TV that day.

I tell people that I love them more. I used to be better about it...but I still will randomly tell people that matter to me that I love them. You never want people to wonder how you feel about them. :-)

Like the majority of Americans, I feel so much more patriotic than I did before that day. There a renewed dedication to God and country that swept over so many of us. Life became so much more about us instead of it being about me.

I didn't shy away from flying. Three weeks after that fateful day, I got on a plane at Logan and flew to a family reunion in San Antonio. I was in England when we formally declared war. When it's my time...it's my time. I refuse to stop living my life because someone else doesn't agree with the freedoms that Americans are afforded.

Over the years, I've known quite a few people who have practiced the Muslim religion. Even that day, I knew it had absolutely nothing to do with them, and everything to do with a handful of absolute lunatics.

I'm linking my post with Andrea over at My Chihuahua Bites. If you feel like sharing your story, I'd love to read it.

(((HUGS)))

Friday Funnies - How Irish Dancing Started

2011-09-09T15:23:00.000-04:00

This got sent to me a few days ago and I keep playing it over and over again. And giggling... :-)

"It's OK" Thursday...Week 4

2011-09-08T11:00:00.000-04:00

You guessed it. I'm linking up with Neely and Amber again this week. You should too!

It's OK...

...To have left the house yesterday for an interview with straight hair, but arrived at said interview with wavy hair. Darn rain!

...To have been really amused that a pigeon was on the subway with my on the way to my interview. Yes, I even tweeted a picture. I'm that kind of geek.

...That I'm kinda sad that some of my favorite summer shows are ending. I'm going to miss them!! Thank goodness my fall faves are only a few weeks away.

...That while it feels good to be needed, I really need a few hours away from my parent's house. If I'm lucky, I can sneak out for a cup of coffee after bringing mom to PT tomorrow.

...To be really excited at the prospect of sleeping in my own bed again. Only a few more weeks!!

...That my migraine has been fairly consistent for the past three weeks. Having an ice pack on your head is stylish, no?

...To really miss a few people.

...That I have totally let my dogs take ownership of one of my huge down pillows. They need to be comfortable too, right?

Tuesdays At The Table - Mexican Eggrolls

2011-09-05T19:42:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday! It's that time again. :-)
Did everyone get to enjoy the long weekend?! I can't believe that the summer is over...or at least the unofficial end of summer. Bring on the fall!!!

As part of being my mom's ~~unpaid gopher~~ caretaker since surgery, I've been trying to make sure I cook some meals that both my parents will like. It's quite the challenge, as mom is vegetarian and dad doesn't think a meal is complete without meat.

This little nugget was a hit with both of them.

Mexican Eggrolls

1 can Corn (drained and rinsed to get rid of the excess sodium)
1 can black beans (drained and rinsed to get rid of the excess sodium)
3-4 scallions (finely chopped)
2 cloves of garlic (minced)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
1 package Eggroll wrappers
1/2 envelope Taco seasoning
Salt
Pepper

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients but the eggroll wrappers. Place a large spoonful or so of the vegetable mixture in the middle of each eggroll wrapper, wetting the edge of the wrapper to seal.

Place the eggrolls on a cookie sheet that has been coated in non-stick spray. To ensure crispiness, spray the tops of each eggroll with non-stick spray as well.

Bake at 425 for 12-15 minutes. Serve with salsa and sour cream.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

2 On Tuesday

2011-09-05T19:00:00.001-04:00

The gorgeous Andrea from My Chihuahua Bites is hosting a new linky party!! Having a Tuesday link-up isn't a new thing for Andrea. You see...SHE was the originator of Tuesdays At The Table! When she got pregnant with her darling babe, Cooper, I took it over. It's hard to believe that it's been almost two years since I started hosting!

The prompt this week:
TWO FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT FALL

1. The cooler temperatures! Summer is nice and all...but I quickly grow tired of the heat and humidity. Bring on the nice crisp air that comes with fall. The air is drier and it's cool enough that I want a sweater some days. At the same time, I'm grateful that it's not so cool that I need to have the heat on all the time.

2. Apple picking!! I love me some apple picking. For the past few years, we (as in my group of favorite peeps) and I have gone apple picking at the same orchard. Then comes the fabulous days of baking that follow. It's always a challenge to use all those apples, but I find a way!

TAG: About Me

2011-09-03T19:53:00.000-04:00

My adorable friend Megan did an "about me" post, and I thought that it was a fabulous idea. I have a bunch of new followers, so I hope this tells you a little about who I am. :-)

Feel free to fill it out yourself {be sure to tag the post to my blog} so that we can all get to know one another!

1. Do you have a middle name?

Jean. It's my mom's middle name, and I hope to pass it along to my daughter one day.

2.What is/was your favorite subject in school?

In high school - English. In college, Art History and Sociology.

3. What's your favorite drink?

Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha is one of my guilty pleasures! However, I'm never more than an arm's reach from a glass of water.
:-)

4. Favorite songs at the moment?

I can't tell you how much I love music. There's just no way for me to pinpoint just one song that is my "favorite" right now. Two songs that I adore right now are Bon Iver's "Skinny Love" and The Black Keyes "Tighten Up".

5. What would you name your children?

You guys won't steal my names, right?! I'm not even close to having kids...but right now I really like Noah and Jackson for a boy & Ainsley and Harper for a girl.

6. Do you participate in any sports?

Now? No. I danced (ballet, tap and jazz) from the time I was three right through college and I did marching band in junior high and high school. And, yes...I do consider marching band a sport. Long distance marching and choreographed routines while playing an instrument. It requires stamina, ladies!

7. Favorite book?

Here's another category that I can't limit to just one. Right now, I'd say A Discovery of Witches and the Harry Potter series.

8. Favorite color?
Pink!!! Though you can't tell from my closet. Most of my clothes are black.

9. Favorite animal?

Dogs, of course!

10. Favorite perfume?

Romance by Ralph Lauren

11. Favorite holiday?

Hmm...that's a tough one. Probably Thanksgiving.

12. Have you graduated High School?

Yes, Class of 1996

13. Have you been out of the country?

You could say that... I've been to Canada, Mexico, England, Scotland, Wales, France and Belgium.

14. Do you speak any other languages?

Five years of Spanish...and I barely remember most of it!

15. Do you have any siblings?

I have a younger brother, JC.

16. What's your favorite store?

Macy's, The Paper Store, Kohl's and Barnes & Noble. What? No one said just clothing stores!

17. Favorite restaurant?

Either Cheesecake Factory or Pacini's.

18. Do you like school?

I did enjoy school. I was a goody two-shoes, who spent all my free time volunteering in the school office.

19. Favorite YouTubers?

Hmm...that depends on my mood.

20. Favorite Movie?

Again, I can't limit myself to just one!

(Representative of the whole Twilight series. So far...)

21. Favorite TV show?

I am a TV junkie, so picking just one is completely out of the question. Or maybe I just don't do well with picking a favorite in general. Hmm.

Anyway, I lurve Combat Hospital, Royal Pains, True Blood, Covert Affairs, Suits, Grey's Anatomy, NCIS and whole bunch of others!

22. PC or MAC?

PC

23. What phone do you have?

Droid Incredible

24. How tall are you?

5' 2". I'm OK with being vertically challenged.

25. Meet the family.

We've established that I don't have kids. Well, two-legged ones anyway. :-) These two are my kids!

Meadow

Beckett

True Life: I'm A {Food} Blogger

2011-09-02T10:39:00.001-04:00

The witty and effervescent Mrs. Monologues' & Tara at Fabulous But Evil are continuing their True Life series... Sure, I'm not a full time food blogger. But hosting Tuesdays At The Table for almost two years (anniversary later this month!!) counts. Right?!?! :-)

Here are a few of my favorites...

Appetizers
Pesto Chili Peanuts
Dragon's Breath Dip

Main Courses
Italian Meatloaf
Enchilada Casserole
Crockpot Orange Chicken

Desserts
Apple Cake
Mixed Berry Sorbet

Breakfast Foods
Lemon Coffee Cake
Cinnamon Rolls
Banana Walnut Pancakes

Drinks
Sangria (Red & White)
Frozen Iced Tea

I'd love if you could share your favorite recipes each week too! :-)

"It's OK" Thursday...Week 3

2011-09-01T13:11:00.000-04:00

I'm linking up again with Neely and Amber for "It's OK" Thursday. It's funny how much I look forward to their weekly link-up! You should join in on the fun too!

It's OK...

...That I'm on day 12 of a cluster migraine. But if anyone has a suggestion, I'm all ears.

...To be ready for the fall. I know I'm weird...but I get tired of the heat and humidity of summer pretty quickly.

...To really want someone to hug me right now.

...That I've realized that I sleep better when the pups sleep with me.

...That I'm really struggling with a header for my Etsy shop. It's the only thing holding me up from opening shop!

...That I'm weeks behind in watching True Blood. I'll catch up!

...That this little clip of Shaun the Sheep makes me giggle, no matter how many times I see it.

What's OK with you today?

Tuesdays At The Table - Mozzarella Sticks

2011-08-29T21:18:00.000-04:00

Hey gang!!! Did all my East Coast girls make it through Irene? We got hour upon hour of whipping wind and rain. There's a tree down in the back yard...but despite some flickering, the electricity never really went off on me. I'm really lucky. I hope you all faired as well as I did. A big "thank you" to all my loves that checked in on me via Twitter and email. :-)

I'm a sucker for mozzarella sticks. I don't have them often (hello, calories!!), and the last time I tried to make them at home, I ended up with a pool of mozzarella in a pan. Luckily, I stumbled across a breading cheat on Taste of Home. Soooo yummy!

Mozzarella Sticks

12 pieces string cheese
12 egg roll wrappers
Oil for frying
Marinara sauce

Place a piece of string cheese near the bottom corner of one egg roll wrapper (keep remaining wrappers covered with a damp paper towel until ready to use). Fold bottom corner over cheese. Roll up halfway; fold sides toward center over cheese. Moisten remaining corner with water; roll up tightly to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and cheese.

In an electric skillet, heat 1/2 in. of oil to 375°. (NOTE: I don't use a thermometer. I heat the pan on medium high for a few minutes and then test with a drop of water to make sure that the oil is hot.)

Fry sticks, a few at a time, for 30-60 seconds on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Serve with marinara sauce.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

"It's OK" Thursday... Week 2

2011-08-25T10:06:00.000-04:00

Yep, I'm linking up with the fabulous Neely and Amber again for "It's OK" Thursday. You should too!!

It's OK...

...To be a little nervous about Hurricane Irene. Boston hasn't gotten a good hurricane in yeeears! Plus, I need to make sure that both my house and my parents house are ready for it.
...That a teeny, tiny part of me is excited for a hurricane too.
...To be doing all the post-op care for my mom. Sure, I wish people would offer to help. Yeah, I wish that just about anyone would ask if I'm handling it all. But, it gives me a sense of accomplishment too. I'm up by 6 AM and don't get to sit down until she goes to bed at night.
...That I kinda fell off the face of the earth. No texting, no calling people, no Facebook, etc. I just don't have time right now.
...To be days behind in responding to blog comments. I promise I'll get there!!
...To be addicted to Toaster Strudels right now. Especially the strawberry ones.
...To have missed the boat on Erin Condren planners. If someone could explain their brilliance to me - I'd be grateful!
...That watching shows "onDemand" has become one of my favorite things lately. I screamed with joy when I found out that both Samuel and Damian won The Glee Project last night at 2 AM. :-)

What's OK with you this week?

Tuesdays At The Table - Portobello Mushroom Pasta

2011-08-22T21:50:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday, ladies!! Did everyone have a wonderful weekend? I haven't left the house since Friday...so I'm feeling a little stir-crazy. On the bright side, mom is home and resting comfortable...considering. The first time she's allowed to leave her house is next Tuesday. Hopefully, my brother & dad will step in and start helping me any. second . now. or I am going to go absolutely nuts being stuck in the house for the next week too.

Anyway... I made my parents portobello mushroom pasta for dinner. Unfortunately, I don't like mushrooms - but it doesn't stop me for making fungus based foods for others. :-)

Portobello Mushroom Pasta

6-8 oz. portobello mushrooms (rough dice)
1/2 onion (fine dice)
1/2 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
1/2 cup white wine
6 tbsp butter/margarine
4 cloves garlic (fine dice)
1 cup chicken stock (or vegetable)
1 tsp rosemary
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
salt
pepper
pasta (cook per box instructions)

In a large saute pan, melt half the butter. When melted, add the mushrooms, onions and tomatoes. Cook on medium for 8-10 minutes until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms get tender. Add the garlic, stir and cook for a minute or so. Bring the heat up to medium-high. Add the wine and let reduce by half. Then add the chicken stock, rosemary, crushed red pepper, salt, pepper and remaining butter & let reduce until you have about 1/2 to 3/4 cup fluid surrounding your vegetables. Combine your cooked pasta and vegetables together. Add the cheese, give a quick stir and serve.

What's cooking in your kitchen?

"It's OK" Thursday...

2011-08-18T12:16:00.000-04:00

This is my first time linking up with the lovely Neely and Amber for "It's OK" Thursday. You should go visit her and the others that linked up. :-)

It's OK...

....That someone on Twitter commented that the blog world has become oversaturated, and I completely disagree. I like discovering new people, and feel everyone has something to say.

....That I haven't slept more than 2 hours per night for the past week. Sleep is over-rated, right?

....That I won't see my house for a month. Taking care of my mom while she recovers from knee replacement surgery is worth it.

....That I'm super excited that my back steps will be replaced this week. Bye, bye brick. Hello, flagstone! Other home repairs are just gonna have to wait until I'm back at my house.

....That someone keeps baking banana bread for me, and as soon as she leaves - I have to throw it away. I don't have the heart to tell her that she is, in fact, the worst cook I've ever met.

....That I didn't realize until 9 o'clock last night that I hadn't had anything to eat of drink at all yesterday.

....That either my Kindle or knitting needles are in my hands at all times. I have fabulously strong fingers because of it! :-)

What's OK with you today?

Tuesdays At The Table - Hasselback Potatoes

2011-08-15T19:59:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday! Did everyone have a good weekend? Mine was rather quiet. While my friends were off camping, me & my needles 'o fire got two scarves done. :-) Mom is having knee surgery Tuesday morning. If anyone has a few extra minutes to send some good thoughts - I'd appreciate it!

We've well documented that I like Pinterest, right? Right. I saw these great looking potatoes, and decided on Monday that I just had to try them. They came out GREAT!!!!

Hasselback Potatoes

6 Medium Size Potatoes
2 - 3 Cloves Garlic, thinly sliced
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
Butter (a few pats)
Sea Salt
Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Preheat the oven to 425˚F. Put the potato on a chopping board, flat side down. Start from one end of the potato, cut almost all the way through, at about 3 to 4 mm intervals.

Arrange the potatoes in a baking tray and insert the garlic in between the slits. Scatter some butter on top of each potato. Then drizzle the olive oil and sprinkle some sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Bake the potatoes for about 40 minutes or until the potatoes turn crispy and the flesh is soft.

Don't mind the tinfoil. I didn't feel like scrubbing a baking pan. :-)

What's cooking in your kitchen?