tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3625228449656269262024-02-18T17:32:34.323-08:00Three Kids and Just as Many Brain Cells LeftRandom babblings from a semi-sane stay at home Mom.Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.comBlogger125125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-87331911739016431232010-09-14T13:34:00.000-07:002010-09-14T14:53:36.076-07:00Did You Miss Me?It has been a LONG time since I have felt the urge to blog but with Fall right around the corner I am feeling a bit nostalgic. One of my favorite things about Fall is the cooler weather and the changing of the leaves. In our family we also have a tradition of going to the pumpkin patch and picking out pumpkins, sampling the fresh apple cider and our favorite "treat yourself",apple cider donuts. This recipe is courtesy of All You magazine....guess what I'm doing next weekend?<br /><br />Apple Cider Donuts<br />2 cups sugar<br />1 TB plus 2 tsp cinnamon<br />1 1/2 cups apple cider<br />2 tsp baking powder<br />1 tsp salt<br />3 1/2 cups all purpose flour<br />4 TB unsalted butter<br />2 large eggs plus 1 large egg yolk<br />6 cups vegetable oil for frying<br /><br />Line baking sheet with parchment. Line a large plate with paper towels. In a paper bag, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 TB cinnamon, shake to mix well. Set aside.<br /><br />Bring cider to a boil over medium heat. Cook stirring occasionally, until cider reduces to 1/2 cup (about 20 minutes) Let cool to room temperature.<br /><br />In a large bowl whisk baking powder,salt,1 cup flour and remaining sugar and cinnamon until well combined. In a small bowl whisk butter,eggs yolk and cooled cider until well combined. Add cider mixture to flour mixture; whisk until smooth. Add remaining 2 1/2 cups flour and mix until just combined. Dough will be slightly sticky. Refrigerate 10 minutes.<br /><br />Pour oil into a large pot and attach a candy thermometer to side (thermometer should not touch bottom of pot) Heat oil over medium high heat until it reaches 375, watching and adjusting as needed to keep oil from overheating.<br /><br />Turn dough out onto a well floured counter top and coat fingertips with flour. Pat dough out to 1/2 inch thickness. Using a doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small) cut out doughnuts and holes. Transfer both to lined baking sheet. Gather scraps and re-pat dough cutting as many doughnuts as possible.<br /><br />Working in batches carefully slide doughnuts into hot oil. After about 1 minutes doughnuts will rise to surface and begin to brown. At that point turn over and fry 1 1/2 minutes longer. Transfer to lined plate to drain. Bring oil back to 375 before frying another batch. When doughnuts have cooled for a minute add to bag with cinnamon and sugar and toss to coat. Remove to clean plate and serve.Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-607354204393185662009-11-05T07:38:00.000-08:002009-11-05T07:45:18.990-08:00Kettle Cornjust wanted to share this super-easy kettle corn recipe from Rachael Ray....my kids loved it (me too)<br /><br />Kettle Corn<br /><br />1/4 cup vegatable oil<br />1/4 cup white sugar<br />1 tsp salt<br />1/2 cup popcorn kernels<br /><br />Place first three ingredients into large pot; mix up till sugar is incorporated into the oil. Add popcorn kernels.Cover pot. Heat on medium high or high heat till kernels start to pop, make sure to keep the pot moving at all times so that the corn and sugar do not burn. When popping slows turn off heat and remove from burner. Wait a minute before opening the pot lid; pour into a large bowl and enjoy!Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-21335497358699641552009-11-03T06:19:00.000-08:002009-11-03T06:38:00.096-08:00Pay It Forward This ChristmasThese gift ideas do double duty; not only can you give to those on your Christmas list but also others in need.<br /><br />Starbucks has their red travel mug for the holidays. a dollare from each sale goes directly to the Global Fund; an organization that fights AIDS/HIV, tuberculosis and malaria in needy countries.<br /><br />Find it at most Starbucks locations or at starbucks.com <span style="color:#ff0000;">$15.95</span><br /><br /><em>Mo Smells the Holidays~</em>adorable scratch and sniff children's book 10% of sales go directly to the Best Friends Animal Society which supports animal shelters<br /><br />Find it at retailers nationwide or mosnose.com <span style="color:#ff0000;">$17.95</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">The Hunger Site is offering up a beautiful Turkish ceramic keepsake bowl. For each bowl purchased 25 cups of food will be donated to those in need. At </span><span style="color:#ff0000;">$6.95 </span><span style="color:#000000;">it's a steal.</span><br /><br />Find it at thehungersite.com/store<br /><br />All profits from the bay,olive,eucalytus branch wreaths are donated to Meals on Wheels.<br /><br />Find them here lindsayolives.com <span style="color:#ff0000;">Prices start at $30</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">Hot chocolate anyone? St. Jude's is offering up these incredibly cute marshmallow fudge snowman tubes for </span><span style="color:#ff0000;">$6 each or 2 for $10</span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">100% of the proceeds go toward finding cure for and treating pediatric cancer.</span><br /><br />Find it at stjude.org/shopMaryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-21004721766556348352009-08-25T06:38:00.000-07:002009-08-25T06:42:09.453-07:00Lucky DogLucky Dog.... Mary and her husband Jim had a dog named 'Lucky.' Lucky was a real character. Whenever Mary and Jim had company come for a weekend visit they would warn their friends to not leave their luggage open because Lucky would help himself to whatever struck his fancy.<br />Inevitably, someone would forget and something would come up missing. Mary or Jim would go to Lucky's toy box in the basement and there the treasure would be, amid all of Lucky's other favorite toys.<br />Lucky always stashed his finds in his toy box and he was very particular that his toys stay in the box.<br />It happened that Mary found out she had breast cancer. Something told her she was going to die of this disease....in fact; she was just sure it was fatal.She scheduled the double mastectomy, fear riding her shoulders.<br />The night before she was to go to the hospital she cuddled with Lucky. A thought struck her...what would happen to Lucky? Although the three-year-old dog liked Jim, he was Mary's dog through and through. If I die, Lucky will be abandoned, Mary thought. He won't understand that I didn't want to leave him! The thought made her sadder than thinking of her own death.<br />The double mastectomy was harder on Mary than her doctors had anticipated and Mary was hospitalized for over two weeks. Jim took Lucky for his evening walk faithfully, but the little dog just drooped, whining and miserable.<br />Finally the day came for Mary to leave the hospital. When she arrived home, Mary was so exhausted she couldn't even make it up the steps to her bedroom. Jim made his wife comfortable on the couch and left her to nap. Lucky stood watching Mary but he didn't come to her when she called. It made Mary sad but sleep soon overcame her and she dozed.<br />When Mary woke for a second she couldn't understand what was wrong. She couldn't move her head and her body felt heavy and hot. But panic soon gave way to laughter when Mary realized the problem.<br />She was covered, literally blanketed, with every treasure Lucky owned!<br />While she had slept, the sorrowing dog had made trip after trip to the basement bringing his beloved mistress all his favorite things in life.He had covered her with his love.<br />Mary forgot about dying. Instead she and Lucky began living again, walking further and further together every day.<br />It's been 12 years now and Mary is still cancer-free. Lucky still steals treasures and stashes them in his toy box but Mary remains his greatest treasure. <br /><br />Remember.....live every day to the fullest. Each minute is a blessing from God. And never forget....the people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care for us.Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-59335640183861955632009-08-18T07:46:00.001-07:002009-08-18T07:49:59.364-07:00Pearly Bites<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNPmLVmVkhIGCfWEeSUw3-rHbo4p0iAQ2LqsfC_Qd7esPwGXwRtEB2hAn0inviK-T8FY6Ee1KhXMkGyG_wsD0j87Yl2cS9YAVHl-TeJW-h5uq_N1-rP422hG44U06cnb1dw4MA3YA2Ou6/s1600-h/pearly-bites-recipe-photo-180-FF0609TOTMW01.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 180px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 94px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371315736262672546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNPmLVmVkhIGCfWEeSUw3-rHbo4p0iAQ2LqsfC_Qd7esPwGXwRtEB2hAn0inviK-T8FY6Ee1KhXMkGyG_wsD0j87Yl2cS9YAVHl-TeJW-h5uq_N1-rP422hG44U06cnb1dw4MA3YA2Ou6/s320/pearly-bites-recipe-photo-180-FF0609TOTMW01.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><br />RECIPE INGREDIENTS:<br />Pink frosting<br />Small, round wafer cookies<br />Yogurt-covered raisins or peanuts<br />White frosting<br />Black food coloring<br />1. To make each oyster, spread a layer of pink frosting on the bottom of a small, round wafer cookie, then gently press a yogurt-covered raisin or peanut on top. Position another cookie as shown, anchoring one edge in the frosting. </div><div>2. Dab on white frosting eyes, then use a toothpick dipped in black food coloring to add pupils. </div><div> </div><div>*Recipe and picture found here: <a href="http://familyfun.com/">http://familyfun.com</a></div><div> </div>Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-55278676808593743812009-08-14T11:25:00.000-07:002009-08-14T11:27:46.467-07:00The Bee's KneesFriday's fun picks<br /><script type="'text/javascript'" src="'http://www.etsy.com/etsy_mini.js'"></script><script type="'text/javascript'">new EtsyNameSpace.Mini(5277546, 'favorites','gallery',4,2).renderIframe();</script><br /><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.etsy.com/etsy_mini.js"></script><br /><script type="text/javascript">new EtsyNameSpace.Mini(5277546, 'favorites','gallery',4,2).renderIframe();</script>Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-5571513596146330992009-08-06T15:48:00.001-07:002009-08-06T15:58:48.030-07:00Looking for Something Fun ?I got this recipe and idea from a great website called <a href="http://www.kaboose.com/">Kaboose</a><br />This is for Salt Dough:<br />2 parts flour<br />1 part salt<br />1 part water<br />Mix together well, if needed knead the dough. Roll out and use cookie cutters to make different shapes or make your own creations with your hands. If you want to use these little trinkets to hang on backpacks use a toothpick to make a hole big enough to fit some string through when they are done baking.<br />Place on cookie sheet and bake for 2-2 1/2 hours at 250 degrees. Let cool and then paint.<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 180px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366988014194734978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjchdqgv7xkG4-oKSIEGodmv24RgPRxgug5AZACNukUtYndjtB48Z9vjwrJq_yJwOBGEp55QsB74IwLYzRXr1lGMrHtCPr5HXNcpGNl8KVXjyq8XOFhCVSWGVKfOxm3P0JmxQ3gl89tKGmX/s320/DSC02339.JPG" />Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-57227946906991962122009-08-05T07:49:00.000-07:002009-08-05T08:04:21.598-07:00On a Personal NoteI find myself in a very strange place right now and thought writing it out would help bring some clarity.<br /><br />I'm the type of person that likes to plan things out; funny how all of my children were "surprises" :O) What occurred just recently has really thrown me a curve ball.<br />I knew this day would come but I didn't expect to feel so conflicted about it and quite frankly....nervous.<br /><br />We decided when my oldest was two years old and we lost our sitter that it would be better if I stayed home until he was ready to go to school, less heartache and stress on the family...so we re-adjusted and low and behold right when I was about to return to the job search we found out I was pregnant. This happened twice (yes, every four years I had a baby)LOL. Now my daughter is going into first grade and I am about to return to searching. I'm not going to lie, this has me up at night. The last time I returned to work after a six month break every interview had the same question "why haven't you worked in six months?" Is anyone going to be willing to hire me after not working for 12 years? Am I going to have to take a job that I really don't want just to help contribute?<br /><br />I know in the end it will all work out but for now I remain quiet and contemplaintive....Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-27859320208259345272009-08-04T14:42:00.000-07:002009-08-04T14:47:21.034-07:00When Life Hands You Lemons....make this delicious frozen treat :O) Recipe courtesy of kraftfoods.com<br />This is so easy and yummy!<br />Frozen Lemonade Squares <br />What You Need!<br />9 HONEY MAID Low Fat Honey Grahams, finely crushed (about 1-1/4 cups) <br />1/3 cup margarine or butter melted<br />1 qt. (4 cups) frozen vanilla yogurt, softened<br />6 oz. (1/2 of 12-oz. can) frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed <br />1/2 cup thawed COOL WHIP LITE Whipped Topping <br />Make It!<br />MIX graham crumbs and margarine; press onto bottom of 9-inch square pan. <br /><br />BEAT yogurt and concentrate with mixer until well blended; spread over crust. <br /><br />FREEZE 4 hours or until firm. Serve topped with COOL WHIP.Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-75118840034448792332009-07-31T07:03:00.001-07:002009-07-31T07:33:53.287-07:00Labor of LoveThis story begins with my Sicilian Grandmother, for whom I would walk across town every Saturday to help make the meatballs for Sunday's "gravy". She is the one responsible for my love of cooking and all things food related.<br /><br /><div><div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 180px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364628708617345234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaQw8jsTEGiCiP-nfVseFZ8MjNNVU1OFj6Nyvf8wFEacZUhRLGcP__wmEYPDFDPa1TF13QMV7keH_W5KFFJiMD29CTxcS9Hw_zs7mFrKBOFhczI_XfC8wkfu_87G1dx6_GAZJw6avsU_f9/s320/DSC02331.JPG" /><br /><br /><div>One of my most prized possessions is the hand written recipe book that my mother gave to me at my bridal shower. She had taken the time to write in several family recipes that had been passed down;even ones from Grandma's kitchen. Fast forward about 14 years and you'll find my daughter rummaging through all my recipe books to find this treasure.</div><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 180px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364629058991572722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQr5JN1ZPSej0I-uT7iUYkJcUZ7YdnFPcr1bTZimgtC3fHOY8nErxdOIpdQAVHnFIpQb49OIAyPJlWaqEyWI1AmPeOtWHPiE8QS0jFhy1jnXurl1Smosr07gZIj8TXOrO9hDYoZU_QDZO/s320/DSC02332.JPG" /><br /><br /><div>This gives me an idea; what better way to leave my children a little piece of "me" than to share all our family favorites in a personalized recipe book? My children all love to cook and on many an occasion you can find them right beside me getting their hands dirty and creating their own concoctions. Each of their books is different just like their personalities and over the last year or so I've been compiling recipes and adding to the books.</div><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 180px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364629916620707122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEF0R3od-r3VJ9_36npoh4ZPDc3mMPPZiOLhK16vD-iGcxKA9fUpSK6VGxjcjnlA005oBR3DOI_xIss8ys_Nryd3yuEIHPo-zfUevBR-3kmlS3k9FUBBeqrHZe31yoSZZrEMJmDTn_ELaM/s320/DSC02333.JPG" /><br /><div></div><br /><div>See for many of us we connect over the table, share our experiences of the day,relax and just enjoy some great food ;it truly is a way of bonding. So if you wouldn't mind.....Pass the Pasta </div></div></div></div>Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-59945493201009286362009-07-24T14:55:00.000-07:002009-07-24T15:13:38.454-07:00Five Things FridayOk, play along<br /><a href="http://itswriteonthewall.blogspot.com/2009/07/5-things-friday.html">5 Things Friday</a><br />I am playing along with Jean Stockdale on her <a href="http://jeanstockdale.typepad.com/">blog</a>. Jean has started a "5 Things Friday" and I am excited to participate! So this week's topic is What 5 Things Do You Not Like? So here are my 5 things:<br /><br />1.I am deathly afraid of snakes, don't you bring those things around me!<br /><br />2.I don't like eggplant or anything that has a slimy texture. I like my food to bite me back when I eat it LOL Gimme something crunchy.<br /><br />3. Cemetaries; HATE them. They are too final and I prefer to remember people when they were happiest and not in the ground...and God forbid it is raining, you won't get me near the cemetary (don't like my feet sinking in the earth)<br /><br />4.Don't like public bathrooms, you never know what is in there....YUCK! 'nuff said<br /><br />5.Most people think blowing in someone's ear is romantic; NOT ME....it grosses me out when someone tries to blow in my ear. Leave it alone, only earrings belong there.<br /><br />Your turn.Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-29641367107600790772009-07-24T06:45:00.000-07:002009-07-24T06:51:30.395-07:00Fun Finds Fridaythese are just too much fun not to share....TGIF <script type="'text/javascript'" src="'http://www.etsy.com/etsy_mini.js'"></script><script type="'text/javascript'">new EtsyNameSpace.Mini(5277546, 'favorites','gallery',5,2).renderIframe();</script><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.etsy.com/etsy_mini.js"></script><br /><script type="text/javascript">new EtsyNameSpace.Mini(5277546, 'favorites','gallery',5,2).renderIframe();</script>Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-8073286061702868662009-07-15T13:57:00.000-07:002009-07-15T14:06:10.089-07:00Strawberry BreadTis the season for fresh,delicious strawberries. Here's a recipe that's perfect for breakfast,snack or dessert.<br /><br />3 cups fresh,ripe strawberries<br />3 1/8 cups all purpose flour<br />1 1/2 cups white sugar<br />1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon<br />1 teaspoon salt<br />1 teaspoon baking soda<br />1 cup vegetable oil<br />4 eggs,beaten<br />1 cup chopped pecans* optional<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter and flour two 9 x 5 inch loaf pans.<br />Dice strawberries and place in medum sized bowl. Sprinkle lightly with sugar and set aside while preparing bread mixture.<br /><br />Combine flour,sugar,cinnamon,salt and baking soda in large bowl; mix well. Blend oil and eggs into strawberries. Add strawberry mixture to flour mixture, blending until until dry ingredients are just moistened. Stir in pecans. Divide batter into pans.<br /><br />Bake for 45-50 minutes or until tester comes out clean. Let cool in pans on wire rack for 10 minutes. Turn loaves out and cool completely.....yummmMaryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-78184260286481344882009-07-06T09:50:00.000-07:002009-07-06T09:53:28.464-07:00Christmas in JulyTeam EEAT is celebrating Christmas in July!<br />July 6-11 <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355390861042667266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguIDtlnG5HMAHuS7nY7Q-EEHQMdSbPZAxAUUNAy7_vIdYpr6uKfEhV0xqjo0Fc2GpCEhOZtmAeh_1JT41ymImhOiPJ0kPyNxUWMIV7fajljMb6WBrj6g3CLypkRGUBH6W73FzjSON8Du-k/s320/xmasinjuly.jpg" /><br /><br />Come WIN PRIZES in our scavenger hunt,<br />or just take advantage of shop discounts!<br />(But we know you want to do the scavenger hunt...the prizes are too good to pass up!)<br /><br />PRIZES!<br /><br />Grand prize: A Team EEAT Sampler Box! ($50 value)<br />1st Place: $10 Gift Certificate from Double Dipped Sweets<br />2nd Place: $5 Gift Certificate from JustBakin'<br />There might be more prizes, depending on # of entrants!<br /><br />How to Play:<br />Look for the image above in the shops listed here. They will be hidden in an item listing! One listing per shop.<br />Email 5 of the listing Id's where you found the picture to teameeat@gmail.com<br />DO NOT put them in the comments please!!!<br /><br />A winner will be chosen on the 12th.<br /><br />Additional entries:<br />Go shopping! Every item purchased from a team eeat store gets you 3 entries!<br />Tweet or Facebook- 1 entry! Leave a comment below<br />Blog: 2 extra entries!<br /><br />Find 5 pictures in these shops: (1 per shop)<br />Also- many of these shops are offering discounts!<br />(All discounts are before shipping)<br /><br />Double Dipped Sweets - 15% discount<br />Just Bakin' - 10% discount<br />Lucky Dog Treat Company<br />Del Alma Bakery - 10% discount<br />A Thyme To Bee Comforted - 10% discount<br />Bears Baked Goods - 15% discount<br />Fancy That Cookies - 20% discount<br />Sweet Treats by Maryann - 10% discount<br />Little Snowflakes - 15% discount<br />Nicole's Homemade Treats - 10% discount (please wait for revised invoice)<br />Megs Creations - 10% discount<br /><br /><br />Other shops offering discounts only!<br />(no hidden pictures)<br /><br />Fat Daddy Sweets - 10% discount<br />A Sugar Affair - 15% discount<br />Cakes By Sugarplums - 20% discountMaryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-53786787713372932212009-07-05T08:57:00.001-07:002009-07-05T09:24:16.851-07:00The Perfect SundayThese days everything has become so hectic; my family and I have decided to take one day a week to just "re-energize" for the coming week. Here's my favorite way to spend a Sunday.<br /><br />Step one; sleep in, well at least until 8:30. Normally around this time my head starts working on all kinds of ideas....see step two<br /><br />Step two; whip up something really yummy (and probably not so healthy) for breakfast. This morning's recipe to follow.<br /><br />Step three; brew a large pot of coffee to go along with reading the paper.<br /><br />Step four; by this point I have come up with lots of new recipe ideas and head off to the grocery store to get ingredients<br /><br />Step five (my favorite); head to the kitchen. Isn't it funny how many people can actually fit into one kitchen? My company consists of three very hungry and curious kids, two dogs and one very "supportive" husband :O)<br /><br />As promised here is the very simple recipe that I made this morning.<br /><br />Cinnamon Rolls<br /><br />1 can Pillsbury Crescent Rounds<br />cinnamon/sugar mixture<br /><br />Frosting: powdered sugar<br />milk<br /><br />Apple mixture: large apple of your choice<br />2 TB butter<br />cinnamon/sugar mixture<br /><br /><br />Open crescent rounds and unfold, sprinkle liberally with cinnamon and sugar then roll back up. Sprinkle more cinnamon and sugar on top. Bake as directed.<br />Drizzle with frosting after removing from oven. Serve....<br /><br />*cinnamon and sugar mixture: usually a 3/4 to 1/4 mixture of simple white sugar and ground cinnamon You can adjust to your own personal taste.<br /><br />Apple mixture: in a small saucepan melt 2 TB of butter,add diced apple and sprinkle liberally with cinnamon and sugar. Simmer on low heat until the butter and sugar mix start to bubble and reduce down. I put apples on top of my cinnamon roll instead of frosting, de-lish<br /><br />Enjoy your Sunday!Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-19041243845196294972009-06-17T11:23:00.000-07:002009-06-17T11:55:41.127-07:00For the Love of Ice Cream<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcLrv-eYEQI_DTq5M45G7YxJhCBS2YrddjSq65KEHlNSSKt9FhCy2PxKcqZ1RJFvZqyJRPFtcMsoGeit9Megk1VOYLqoLo5d6uTm536zv8uP65T-uSGQYQcR5yrdPe9TtG6YdRMkr4GU4/s1600-h/Dusty-Road-Ice-Cream-Sundae.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcLrv-eYEQI_DTq5M45G7YxJhCBS2YrddjSq65KEHlNSSKt9FhCy2PxKcqZ1RJFvZqyJRPFtcMsoGeit9Megk1VOYLqoLo5d6uTm536zv8uP65T-uSGQYQcR5yrdPe9TtG6YdRMkr4GU4/s320/Dusty-Road-Ice-Cream-Sundae.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348372049673382946" /></a><br />Summer is here! My all-time favorite treat is ice cream, you know the good kind with all the creaminess and fat.Add some homemade caramel on top and I've died and gone to heaven. Move over treadmill here I come....<br /><br />Custard Ice Cream Base Recipe <br /> <br />This custard base is used for nearly all custard ice cream recipes. <br /> <br />1 cups heavy whipping cream<br />1 cups of milk<br />1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon sugar (the 1 tblsp. sugar may be excluded if a lighter ice cream is desired.)<br />2 egg yolks (recipes often call for 3 egg yolks, some people enjoy a heavier/ eggier taste, while others don't. It's really just preference)<br /> <br />1) Heat the milk, cream, and 1/3 cup sugar in a saucepan. Stir until mixture is hot and <br />all the sugar has dissolved<br /> <br />2) Whisk the egg yolks and 1 tablespoon sugar in a seperate bowl. Add one cup <br />of the hot liquid to the egg yolks (making sure to poor slowly and stir / whisk) Then, pour the mixture back into the sauce pan while continually stirring the mixture (all the stirring is so that the eggs don't cook, you don't want little pieces of scrambled eggs in your ice cream!)<br /> <br />3)Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a wooden spoon (stir constantly and do not allow to boil, or mixture will curdle). Mixture should take around <br />5 minutes to thicken. (warning!! 5 minutes is a very rough approximation, it may just take one minute. One tip for knowing when it has thickened is by leaning the pan to the side a little, so you can see the bottom; drag your spoon against the bottom / side, and you should be able to see if the mixture has thickened if a clean streak remains. Don't worry if you notice quite a bit of curdled mixture on the bottom, it will be able to be strained out. This is the hardest part of making a cream based ice cream, and it just takes a little practice.) Now strain the custard ice cream base into a clean bowl and use as directed in recipes.<br /> <br />-This ice cream base can also be made into a simple ice cream with no additional flavorings.<br />-the milk to cream ratio can be adjusted depending on if you want your ice cream to be more<br />or less rich.<br /> <br />Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe<br /> <br />1 recipe custard base<br />1 vanilla bean(split), or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.<br /> <br />Add the vanilla bean to the milk, cream, and sugar when making the custard base. After <br />straining the whole mixture scrape in the vanilla seeds.If using extract just add to the end of the cooking procedure.Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-2281898335630812752009-06-10T11:27:00.001-07:002009-06-10T11:39:40.665-07:00Asparagus the "New Green"I came across asparagus for the first time two years ago at a wedding. I had never tried it before but figured it was about time. That's when my love affair started.<br /><br />Here are some facts about this yum,yum,yummy veggie:<br /><br />Asparagus is a nutrient-dense food which is high in folic acid and is a good source of potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, vitamins A and C, and thiamin. <br /><br />Asparagus has no fat, contains no cholesterol and is low in sodium.<br /><br />It takes two years before you can harvest any crop from an asparagus plant. <br /><br />Asparagus is a member of the Lily family.<br /><br />The larger the diameter; the better the quality.<br /><br /><br />Read on for a delicious recipe....<br /><br />Asparagus Avacado Medley<br />*courtesy of Allrecipes.com<br /><br />INGREDIENTS <br />1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces <br />8 fresh mushrooms, sliced <br />1 large ripe avocado, peeled and cubed <br />1 medium zucchini, diced <br />1 large tomato, seeded and chopped <br />1 medium red onion, sliced <br />2 tablespoons lemon juice <br />2 tablespoons olive or canola oil <br />1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar <br />1 teaspoon Dijon mustard <br />1 garlic clove, minced <br />1/2 teaspoon dried basil <br />1/2 teaspoon dried thyme <br />1/4 teaspoon salt <br />1/4 teaspoon pepper <br /><br /><br /><br />DIRECTIONS<br />Place asparagus and 2 tablespoons water in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on high for 3-6 minutes or until crisp-tender, stirring once; drain and cool. <br />In a large bowl, combine the asparagus, mushrooms, avocado, zucchini, tomato and onion; toss gently. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the remaining ingredients; shake well. Pour over salad and toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate until serving. <br />FOOTNOTES<br />This recipe was tested with an 850-watt microwave.Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-78838116430402583732009-06-05T14:26:00.000-07:002009-06-05T14:42:23.420-07:00Just Addedfor your tummy's pleasure<br /><br /><a href="http://sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com/"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 287px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343960497040441634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08X5jtW8rOZIp4m_f4DakAmpxbZN732rf4e3m3_bJhsv52GJ-loPfhsGKpl-ZodNuqf4JHKXYSmlzDzGmotad4aFUyFNz80W3-51UibBjpM4s9Xq1TsztDb6ivmk364dfxVXqgR51D3qZ/s320/DSC02188-1.JPG" /></a> Simply Lime Cookies<br /><br /><div><a href="http://sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com/"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 270px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343960498238629906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAChAGYb3x3rdWXVN0dSbQcu3VAZmWe9QgvD_2dotxUKn1BVeiH_-A9wZVKNSJ9B1F7RafO9DQBvadsI4b7P-UO5zron9BonGO6IaapCS-STvmJ-sZ-1TpHWZK8RZ5Uy3rRbxp6w5_eHLK/s320/DSC02193-1.JPG" /></a> Double Chip Cookies<br />Maryann</div><div>Sweet Treats by Maryann</div><div><a href="http://sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com/">http://sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><div></div>Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-52278148265903916872009-05-29T16:42:00.000-07:002009-05-29T16:48:23.837-07:00Lighter Macaroni Salad<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNR7P8KcHKPpA9pskg8iLZ87RjBzx4EIRSCix5ldl4kfpXpW02E62hGmlHQOVOuh6hsNtcGeKhAF9cHQ-MrSlW33_fzwDeZuBo6DO4n3oaG9Ob72zWTx0eo_BwOmqLJ1SCLa3-bUmiKTlh/s1600-h/Macaroni-Salad-Made-Over-56597.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNR7P8KcHKPpA9pskg8iLZ87RjBzx4EIRSCix5ldl4kfpXpW02E62hGmlHQOVOuh6hsNtcGeKhAF9cHQ-MrSlW33_fzwDeZuBo6DO4n3oaG9Ob72zWTx0eo_BwOmqLJ1SCLa3-bUmiKTlh/s200/Macaroni-Salad-Made-Over-56597.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341396831232898162" /></a><br />this summer staple has been lightened up and still tastes fabulous~you can also omit the eggs<br /><br />What You Need!<br />1-3/4 cups (8 oz.) multi-grain macaroni, uncooked<br />3 cups small broccoli florets <br />1 red pepper, chopped <br />1 cup KRAFT Mayo with Olive Oil Reduced Fat Mayonnaise <br />1/4 cup Reduced Fat Sour Cream <br />2 Tbsp. Dijon Mustard <br />2 hard-cooked eggs, chopped <br />Make It!<br />COOK macaroni in large saucepan as directed on package, adding vegetables to the boiling water for the last 2 min.; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain well. <br /><br />MIX mayo, sour cream and mustard in large bowl. Stir in macaroni mixture and eggs. <br /><br />REFRIGERATE 2 hours or until chilled. <br />Recipe and pic courtesy of Kraft Kitchens<br />www.kraftkitchens.comMaryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-21078378163340895542009-05-29T11:55:00.000-07:002009-05-29T11:57:42.905-07:00Wanna Go Play....in the garden? I do, I do<script type='text/javascript' src='http://www.etsy.com/etsy_mini.js'></script><script type='text/javascript'>new EtsyNameSpace.Mini(5277546, 'favorites','thumbnail',2,3).renderIframe();</script>Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-63155543694575459302009-05-27T09:11:00.000-07:002009-05-28T19:41:00.862-07:00Edible Arts Team Sampler Boxes~ON SALE NOW<a href="http://etsyedibleartsteam.blogspot.com/2009/05/announcing-edible-arts-team-sampler.html">Announcing Edible Arts Team Sampler Boxes!</a><br />Can't decide what to buy?Too many shops making you drool?Well, no more worries! Here is your opportunity to try many different sellers at once!<br /><br /><br />Introducing...The Etsy Edible Arts Team Sampler!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340538398995111602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsWYeD_NZd43SprmKl3PmL5iVwg7r9T0Ku-IF-MlFtBdWWfIliNPJ7Dp3_zw3abbBA3Ouy4J2kYii6aOVSvrHysgOFMjzVHNqaQr7_UlkE4Hw7Cv1lXPm9ZbBgniFdzFsP1BV_ehfiwgS/s200/giftwrap.jpg" border="0" /> (The boxes will not look like this!)<br /><br /><br />ALL PROCEEDS GO TO:<a href="http://gabs.strength.org/site/PageServer?pagename=GABS_homepage">The Great American Bake Sale! </a>100% of the funds we raise go to help FEED KIDS!<br /><br /><br />The boxes include treats from up to 15 of our Team Members!<br /><br /><br />A Sugar Affair<br /><br /><br />Double Dipped Sweets<br /><br /><br />Just Bakin'<br /><br /><br />Caramel Jubilee<br /><br /><br />Vintage Confections<br /><br /><br />Del Alma Bakery<br /><br /><br />Sweet Treat Maryann<br /><br /><br />Sugar Smitten<br /><br /><br />A Thyme 2 b Comforted<br /><br /><br />Fancy That Cookies<br /><br /><br />Le Bella Caramella<br /><br /><br />Sweet Lollipop Shop<br /><br /><br />Ciao Hound (Pet Treats)<br /><br /><br />Megs Creations<br /><br /><br />Fortune Cookie Cafe<br /><br /><br />Boxes go on Sale this week! Buy them <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5998093">HERE</a> (on sale now;hurry, limited quantities)Please help feed KIDS by feeding yourself! The Boxes will make a terrific Father's Day gift!Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-49350026503943943982009-05-22T08:07:00.000-07:002009-05-22T08:24:55.913-07:00Farmer's Market<div>There is no better season than summer for fresh fruits and vegatables. When I lived in New Jersey there was a fabulous farmer's market three miles away and there was no denying they had the BEST summer corn and tomatoes.<br /><br />Now that I'm getting older and fighting hard to win the battle of gravity, I have been trying to be much better to my body. This includes eating much more fresh fruits and veggies and organics.<br /><br />Here in Texas I have fallen in love with my local farmer's market Sprouts and Central Market. I love how I can walk into the produce section, ask for a sample of something new and the produce manager has no problem cutting open the absolutely scrumptious apple sitting in the bin.<br /><br />So in hind sight, go check out your local farmer's market, make friends with the farmers, support the American economy and do something good for your body.....you may just decide that you <em>like </em>healthy food :O)<br /><br /><br /><br />Find your local markets here: <strong><a href="http://www.localharvest.org/">www.localharvest.org/</a></strong></div><div> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338669549098270498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilfJR5Ouw9M-XXYSEUgGiD9U1m0W4irFYMDwaB2kQtCbQyVSEt9ZtAUg5a7OurowUkY9oCp6dJHl186VHXOQQ_Q-dk4SQ7tkSyoJCISwOebGDWYD5bgxjZQGbKCR65ETWJ5abmh1-D8pUb/s200/produce.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div>Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-79076450852974132222009-05-20T08:54:00.000-07:002009-05-20T08:57:55.378-07:00Foods That Help Your SkinMay is national skin-care awareness month, so before you bust out the bikini, take a good look at your birthday suit. If you have moles that are an odd shape or color, or larger than a pencil eraser, see a doctor to rule out melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.<br />We all know to wear sunscreen, but SPF 30 isn't the only way to protect your skin this summer. There's UV-fighting artillery stationed in your fridge and fruit bowl, too.<br /><strong>Watermelon</strong> Grab some watermelon—the beta-carotene and lycopene increases your protection against harmful UV rays from the inside out. Both vitamins settle into skin's outer layer, where their antioxidant action helps repair cells damaged by sunlight. In one French study, the dueling duo helped improve markers of skin defense against UV rays by as much as 20 percent. V8 juice is a source of both nutrients--just make yours is the low-sodium version to reduce belly bloat.<br /><strong>Orange peels </strong>The outer peel contains d-limonene, the mortal enemy of UV rays everywhere. A University of Arizona study found that eating one teaspoon of orange peel per week reduced skin cancer risk by 30 percent. Don't want to eat an orange peel? Grate one into your salad or salsa.<br /><strong>Broccoli </strong>Researchers at John Hopkins University found that skin treated with an extract of newly sprouted broccoli seeds and then exposed to UV radiation had 38 percent less redness and swelling then untreated skin--and remained protected for several days.<br /><strong>Green tea</strong> When it's hot, the bionic brew releases catechins, a type of antioxidant with proven anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. (The tea's antioxidants start to degrade as it cools, so drink it while it's hot.) A 2007 study in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that drinking two to six cups a day not only helps prevent skin cancer but may reverse the effects of sun damage by neutralizing the changes that appear in sun-exposed skin.<br /><br />~article courtesy of Women's Health magazineMaryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-90258006185893833512009-05-18T13:35:00.000-07:002009-05-18T13:40:01.468-07:00Friendly Household ReminderCheck the expiration dates on packages like pancakes and cake mixes that have yeast which over time develop spores. Apparently, the mold that forms in old mixes can be toxic! Throw away ALL OUTDATED pancake mix, brownie mixes,Bisquick, cake & cookie mixes, etc., you have in your home.<br /><br />Your tummy and tastebuds will thank you.Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362522844965626926.post-66550392510463674172009-05-17T12:34:00.000-07:002009-05-17T12:37:24.935-07:00And the Winner Is.....<div>Congratulations to Katie! She is the winner of the 1/2 dozen red velvet cookies...</div><div>Enjoy!</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336878984966295954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82PGCWSgHUSAmlCcqyb5a7dcj0T3cHqwOfMYsopvz6aw_pXFwtP3YakhAeXEyT2iTkZi-ddnAtoYgcNmVPXoAKRwIRBmIKDhe4U9IRDgSiWGD_1q6xIuMmwj-R1PZALFMiP0iKoIpxfPr/s320/DSC02088-1.JPG" border="0" /></div>Maryannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12587002122286525286noreply@blogger.com0