Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Vintage Recipe: Raisin Pie



Paphiopedilum Orchid (Raisin Pie x Spellbound)
Do you have a vintage recipe to link up? I encourage you to link your family's favorite recipes or ones from an old cookbook or recipe postcard.

This week I'm sharing a raising pie recipe. It's a good one for Fall and will be a tasty addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table. The Raisin Pie pictured at right is a hybrid Paphiopedilum orchid.

Eureka Cancelled!!! I Can't Believe It.

I can't believe I didn't know about this. Eureka will return with it's 5th season and finale season.Why does it seem like all the good shows get cancelled? What's going to be left on TV to watch? Reality shows and teen dramas, in which I am not a fan of either. Funny intelligent shows are so hard to find. Oh well, I will just have to wait for the last season and just enjoy it.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Dessert Recipe Linky Party: YOUR desserts wanted!

Happy Monday!
Time to feature a few of the delicious desserts linked to this blog last week.
Drumroll ..... dddrrrrrrrrrrr ......

SugarBeam's Raisin Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes

Conni's Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes at Mrs. Mama Hen

Dorothy's S'more Caramel Apples at Crazy for Crust

Don't these recipes look and sound marvelous? I sure thought so. Thank you all for participating in this dessert

Thursday, September 29, 2011

DC Comics Digital Graphic Novels Exclusively Offered for Amazon's Kindle Fire

BURBANK, Calif., Sept. 29, 2011 - DC Entertainment, the first publisher to offer more than fifty comic book titles on the same day in digital and print, is now taking the world of digital books by storm. The comic book giant has worked with Amazon to bring 100 of its original graphic novels exclusively to Amazon’s newly announced Kindle Fire, including best-selling graphic novels WATCHMEN,

Vintage Recipe Linky Party: Banana Fritters Recipe

In this day and age many, perhaps most people are concerned about health and staying slim. Yet more and more are becoming obese. We have TV shows like The Biggest Loser. It used to be that the "fat kid" in class was the odd ball. Today, those kids are the norm in our child's school. Isn't it odd that in earlier decades people could eat a Breakfast of Champions with cholesterol-laden eggs,

Monday, September 26, 2011

Monday Dessert Recipe Linky Party Time

Linky party time! Come link up your dessert recipes.

Here are just a few of the delicious recipes from last week's participants:
Cares and Mimi of From Which Things Grow shared their Caramel Sauce Recipe. Stop buying your caramel sauce at the store. You can make your own in no time. It's easy and so tasty.



The Local Cook shared a Pear Custard Pie, a great Fall dessert. It's another easy

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Fall, Thanksgiving Dessert: Easy Squash Honey Pie Recipe

We're still in summer weather mode here in California, but I know many parts of the country are ready for Fall recipes, so I've picked out a delicious Squash Honey Pie Recipe. It can become a new tradition for your Thanksgiving tables and all through Fall. Add more honey to taste if you prefer.

For Thanksgiving I always have three standard desserts which family and friends request -- Pumpkin Pie

Monday, September 19, 2011

Dessert Recipes Wanted: Linky Party!

Ready to link up your dessert recipes? Which wonderful desserts will you share with all of us this week?

I'm highlighting Kolaches, Oatmeal Cherry Cookies and Banana Brown Sugar Ice Cream from last week's participants.

Let's all wish a Happy Birthday to Trish of Sweetology who shared a beautiful and touching post about her love for her grandmother. She included two recipes, a traditional

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Vintage Recipe: Magic Coconut Orange Loaf Cake

Happy Thursday to all! It's time for more vintage recipes. I try to preserve these gems for another generation. You are invited to preserve your own vintage recipes, your mom's, grandmother's, aunt's or vintage recipes from old cookbooks, postcards, adverting, etc. So many are quite delicious, some are hilarious. So whether you want to honor a loved one's recipe or give us a "what were they

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

IN MEMORY




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

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

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

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

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

Please remember David in your prayers.

Monday, September 12, 2011

Mmm ... Desserts! It's a Linky Party! Come join the fun!

This might sound a bit like a jam commercial, but with a name like Man-Catching Peanut Butter Cookies, it's got to be good! I think many of us might have man-catching -- and keeping -- recipes. One of mine were chocolate truffles. :-) Go take a peek at my Chocolate Truffles Recipe. I have fond memories of those truffles, and they have become a tradition at our home. Ashton of Something Swanky

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Easy grape juice custard recipe or favorite juice custard

Welcome back to Vintage Recipe Thursday! Sometimes we need a quick and tasty recipe to serve just one person. It might be a quick snack for ourselves, or it might be for a child. This is exactly what I found in my vintage cookbook, and it can easily be doubled too. The grape juice made me think of back-to-school. It's a favorite of many children. Feel free to use just about any kind of juice. I

Monday, September 5, 2011

Happy Labor Day Dessert Recipe Linky Party Picnic

Happy Labor Day!! Enjoy the picnics, your family and have a great day off. If you brought a dessert for this Labor Day recipe picnic, please link it below. Have fun!

Gooseberry Patch



BEFORE YOU LINK:
If you follow basic linky party etiquette, I thank you. All your hostesses and fellow bloggers will appreciate it and you will benefit too. You will find that you are helping your own

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Chocolate Recipe: Raisin Nut Brownies

Welcome back to Vintage Recipe Thursday. This is the place to link up any older recipe. I post from a World War II cookbook, but recipes don't need to be that old. You could even post a recipe from the 1990s. You could post your mom's recipes, or grandparent's recipes. If you have old recipe postcards, that's great too. But please do not link your giveaways, sponsored posts, brand new recipes you

Monday, August 29, 2011

Mmm ... Dessert Linky Party

Welcome back to my weekly dessert recipe linky. You linked up some great recipes last week, and below is just a sampling. Thank you to all the great bloggers for sharing their recipes with the world and linking at Joy of Desserts.

Please remember basic blogging etiquette. I don't want to have to delete anyone's great links. If you want to link a giveaway, please use my Giveaway 24/7 Page, don't

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Raisin Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe and Linky Party

It's back to school time for many families, so I'm sharing a cookie recipe which can easily be sent in school lunches, and it's just as easy to take on the road too if you are a busy homeschooling family. Cookies are always favorite snacks and desserts so enjoy this Raisin Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe.

This vintage recipe uses shortening, but I much prefer the taste of real butter which I think

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Movie I'm Excited to See: Underworld: Awakening

Lately, there haven't been too many movies that I really want to see but I really can't wait to see "Underworld: Awakening". This looks like it's going to be really great. It's not released until January 20, 2012, so I will just have to wait.





Monday, August 22, 2011

Which wonderful desserts will you be sharing this week?

Which wonderful desserts will you be sharing with all of us this week? It's time to link up.

Here are some fun desserts! I love highlighting some of your desserts and linking back to you. This is just a small sampling of what caught my interest last Monday:

Raspberry Bites - a super easy dessert made with store-bought puff pastry and raspberry jam (or any other flavor.) It was shared by Ewa of

Friday, August 19, 2011

5 Things to Do Before Summer Ends



Summer is coming to a close but there is still time to enjoy the remainder of the season. Here are some fun ways to spend the rest of summer:

1. Go to the Zoo. Admit it, when was the last time you visited the zoo. It's a fun way to see all the animals (Don't forget to visit the petting zoo).

2. Have a Picnic. Gather you friends for a picnic. Nothing too fussy, it can even just be a desserts

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Halloween Costume Fashion






Calling all vintage recipes! Linky party time!

Time for another Vintage Recipe Thursday Linky Party! Please share with all of us your family favorites. It should be at least 10 years old. How about recipes from when you were a newlywed or a teenager? Maybe it was your mom's recipe or an aunt's or your grandmother's. Or use a recipe from an old cookbook, postcard, magazine or newspaper. Lots of publishers have unfortunately gone out of

Monday, August 15, 2011

Halloween Skeleton




TGIF a Great Place to Savor, Sip, Save

As Joy of Desserts gets more and more popular, I'm proud to say that I get more and more offers from national and even international advertisers, and that means giveaways, coupons, offers, and all sorts of other deals all for you, my dear readers.



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Joy of Desserts Monday linky party

Today is the last day to get your coupon for free Dannon Activia Select Yogurt, so click on the link to grab it while you still can. There's French Style and Greek Style!*****
If you are used to visiting Joy of Desserts, then you probably noticed that I love desserts with fruits. Those are some of my very favorite desserts, so I'm highlighting three of these very tasty fruit recipes.

And I don't

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Tasty! Vintage Recipe Thursday Linky Party

Each week I look forward to seeing your vintage recipes. There are so many tasty recipes that should be preserved for future generations. Please link below your family recipes or those from old cookbooks, magazines, recipe postcards, etc. To be vintage, a recipe only needs to be 10 years or older.

Take a look at a few of the tasty contributions from last week's linky party. Click on the photos

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Gap Takes a Piece of Its Downtown Los Angeles Denim Studio on the Road


Straight from West Pico Boulevard, 'Pico de Gap' Serves Up Unique Tacos From Local Chefs and a Dose of Premium Denim

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 10, 2011 -- Inspired by a late night team dinner at a food truck in Los Angeles, Gap is taking the vibe of its denim design studio on the road with a custom vintage taco truck. Launching today in four markets, Pico de Gap will serve custom menus exclusively "

Women Safety Tips: P.M. Exercise Safety


For some women, the best time to workout is during the evening. With longer days, evening workouts can be more convenient but they also come with more safety issues. Below are seven Women Safety Tips for Exercising at Night:


1. Don't Go Alone. If you love to run at night try to go with a group. You are least likely to be attacked, if you are with a large group.

2. Ask for Assistance. At the

The Funny Thing About Chocolate ...

Funny video. You'll enjoy it. Take the time to watch and smell the chocolate. :-)





Do you like what you see on this blog?Tweet

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Halloween Myths

Halloween originated from the Celtic tradition, the first inhabited Ireland, Scotland and surrounding areas, who believe that on the last day of October, the ghosts haunting the earth. But this tradition has actually passed away a long time.

Around the first century AD, the Celts were conquered by Roman citizens, who then add their culture to the traditions of Halloween. They added two festival

Wordless Wednesday: Tea Infusers

I have a Wordless Wednesday linky each week. Be sure to link your post below. Follow me if you want to easily find this weekly linky.

I also have a coupon for FREE Yogurt for all of you (just click on the link.)

This post is shared with Trish's Tea Party Tuesday, Martha's Tea Cup Tuesday,  Terry's Tea Cup Tuesday, Tea Time Tuesday, Tea Things Tuesday, Wordless Wednesday, What I Love Wednesday

Monday, August 8, 2011

Joy of Desserts linky party

Come one, come all. It's time to link up to the Joy of Desserts linky party. Remember to hyperlink back to all your party hostesses in your participating posts.

I also have some FREE yogurt coupons for all of you, so hurry and grab them before they expire. Just click on the FREE yogurt link.
I'm highlighting three recipes from last week's tasty selections. It's a tough job, but someone has to do

Friday, August 5, 2011

FREE: Dannon Activia Yogurt

Which style of yogurt do you like best? French yogurt or Greek yogurt?
Let Dannon help you decide!
You can get your FREE Dannon Activia Yogurt using this link now:
Visit the Activia Selects Facebook page to get your FREE coupon now!Have no fear if you don't have a Facebook account, Dannon thought of that too, so just click on the link above, and follow their easy step at the bottom right.

Dannon

Thursday, August 4, 2011

On The Quest for a New Cat Bed

I need to get my cat a new bed, it has to be soft yet durable. But I'm really not sure which one to get him. I was thinking of getting him something like this:It looks roomy enough and he can go in there an hide or perhaps something like this:This looks soft enough, I don't know I'll see.Over the weekend I'm going to try and buy him a new bed. He's a little picky but I'm sure I will find him

Vintage Goodness: Easy Banana Ice Cream Recipe



Flickr/Halai Mama
Who loves banana ice cream? That's the recipe my husband picked from the Searchlight Recipe Book. You won't find this flavor in most grocery stores, but homemade ice cream is so easy. Have no fear if you don't have an ice cream maker. You can still make it using this no ice cream maker necessary method.

This is a great recipe for using your over-ripe bananas too, and don't

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Eleven Ice, Sherbet, Parfait, Sundae Recipes to keep cool

It's been hot. These easy frozen dessert recipes will cool you down in no time. There are ices, sherbets, sundaes, a baked Alaska, and a parfait. Perfect for the summer. Perfect for year-round deliciousness.





Lemon Ice, Coca Cola Ice, Ginger Ale Ice, and Root Beer Ice Recipes

 Easy Cantaloupe Sundae Recipe

 Lemon Milk Sherbet and Lemon Cream Sherbet Recipes

Individual Brownie Alaska Recipe

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Wordless Wednesday Linky: flowering or blooming teas

I have a Wordless Wednesday linky each week. Be sure to link your post below and to follow me if you want to easily find this weekly linky.

This post is shared with Trish's Tea Party Tuesday, Donna's Tuesday Tea Chat, Martha's Tea Cup Tuesday,  Terry's Tea Cup Tuesday, Wordless Wednesday, What I Love Wednesday, Vintage Share the Love Wednesday, Woo Us To Your Blog, and Thursday-13.

I love to

When Did Everything Become So Epic?

Have you noticed, lately that "epic" has been used to describe practically everything from movies to sports. I just find it so amusing that all of a sudden that one little word is everywhere. There are other words that can be used to describe how awesome they think something is besides overusing "epic".

Monday, August 1, 2011

My Frugal Glam: Drugstore Nail Polish

Over the weekend, a friend asked me about my nail polish. She thought I was wearing a luxury brand. I told her the polish I'm wearing only cost $1.99. She was surprised because, it looks like it would of cost more. My friend usually buys Chanel but I got the feeling that she might end up browsing the drugstore aisles for a bargain or two.Everyone wants to look their best but nail polish is just

Dessert Linky Party Time!

The wonderful ladies who link up each week are so talented in both creating tasty deserts, and creating beautiful eye candy photographs, that you owe it to yourself to visit their blogs and make new bloggy friends.
You know the old commercial, "Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't"? Well I'm a huge fan of those two candy bars, but these days we have to make just about everything

Friday, July 29, 2011

No Ice Cream Maker Needed Method, 5 Ice Cream Recipes

It's been so hot in so many parts of the country that I'm sure you'll appreciate some ice cream recipes. I'm letting the "secret" out on how to convert any ice cream recipe so that you'll enjoy these even if you don't have an ice cream maker.
Keep cool and enjoy the weekend,



Click on the recipe titles.


  

No Ice Cream Maker Needed!
Make ice cream using this super easy method.






 

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Book: 100 Recipes Every Woman Should Know (Glamour Magazine)

Before I recycle my Glamour magazines, I always tear out the recipes. I will admit that I have never prepared anything, mainly because I usually end up misplacing the recipes or tossing them (while cleaning). So, I was surprised when I was flipping through a recent Glamour that I saw an advertisement for their book "100 Recipes Every Woman Should Know" by Cindi Leive and other Editors of Glamour.

Caramel Ice Cream Recipe



Flickr/daveleb
Here's a recipe to help you (and me) beat the heat. I love to make homemade ice cream, and if you haven't tried it, you haven't realized how easy it is. It is much better tasting than most store-bought ice cream and much cheaper too. I love that I get to control the quality of my ingredients and try out all sorts of wonderful flavors I would not be able to buy from a brand.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Treating Your Dog Doesn't Get Any Cooler with Frosty Paws!

Frosty Paws® Frozen Treats for Dogs Introduces New Frosty Paws BitesOAKLAND, Calif., July 26, 2011 -- Frosty Paws Frozen Treats for Dogs are a one-of-a-kind favorite with dogs of all sizes. The ready-to-eat cups of doggie ice cream, made with high quality protein, vitamins and minerals and no sugar, are a wholesome choice for a snack. Dogs can fetch either an original (Vanilla) or Peanut Butter

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

WW Linky: Okashi (Sweets) for Japanese Tea Ceremony

I have a Wordless Wednesday linky each week. Be sure to link your post below and to follow me if you want to easily find this weekly linky. This post is shared with Trish's Tea Party Tuesday, Donna's Tuesday Tea Chat, Martha's Tea Cup Tuesday,  Terry's Tea Cup Tuesday, Wordless Wednesday, What I Love Wednesday, Vintage Share the Love Wednesday, Woo Us To Your Blog, and Thursday-13.


1. Japan

The Importance of Being a Journalist (Illustration)

Too bad a lot of reporters don't seem to grasp this understanding anymore.

Latest Obsession: Camo Jacket

Camo Jacket $79.00 Banana RepublicI've been looking for something a little different and a camo jacket is just perfect for the weekend. But make sure it's fitted so it doesn't make you look too boxy. I would pair it with a cute tank and shorts or a summer dress in white or pink. It would even look great with a Little Black Dress.The summer is a great time to take chances with fashion.

Monday, July 25, 2011

JCPENNEY DEMONSTRATES THE POWER OF A PENNY TO SUPPORT LOCAL YOUTH

Company Launches “pennies from heaven” to Inspire Donations for AfterschoolCause Marketing Campaign Debuts with Innovative Digital Experience and Backing from Design Partners Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley OlsenPLANO, Texas (July 20, 2011) — J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) today announced that it is launching an inspiring new philanthropic initiative that invites customers in over 1,100 stores

Dessert Recipe Linky Party: Monday, Mmm ... Dessert

Happy Monday! Time to link up your dessert recipes.

Grab this code for the Joy of Desserts button:

Friday, July 22, 2011

Sneak Peak of Lois Lane's New Boyfriend in Superman #1

According to DC Comics, Lois Lane's new boyfriend, Jonathan Caroll will be a co-worker at the Daily Planet. Lois will have a slightly different career as the new boss of the Daily Planet's TV and New Media Department. According to DC Entertainment Co-Publisher, Jim Lee (The New York Daily News), he thinks readers will have a soft spot for Clark when they see his reaction to Lois’ new boyfriend,

Thursday, July 21, 2011

News Bite: Man of Steel Pushed Back Until Summer 2013

by SuperHeroHype (superherohype.com)Warner Bros. Pictures has announced that Zack Snyder's Superman movie Man of Steel will be released in theaters on June 14, 2013 and not in December of 2012 as was previously believed.No other films have been scheduled for that date yet.Written by David Goyer and Jonathan Nolan, the anticipated film stars Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Diane Lane, Kevin Costner,

Vintage Recipe Thursday: Pineapple Ice Cream Recipe



Flickr/Nautiljon
This pineapple ice cream can instantly transport you to Hawaii, even if you are going on a staycation. That's what flavors and scents do to us. One whiff of a certain perfume, and we are a child in the arms of our grandmother. One bite of pineapple and we are on vacation in Hawaii.

This recipe couldn't be any easier, just blend the ingredients together, pour into your ice

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

A Comic, DC Comics Should Do: Lois Lane, Girl Reporter

I'm in a Comic Book kind of mood and thought this would be interesting to post.by Style and Focus PRSomething truly different that DC Comics could really do, is to publish, "Lois Lane, Girl Reporter" written by Dean Trippe and artwork by Daniel Krall. Trippe was trying to pitch it to DC but they decided to pass on it. I can not understand why? It seems like it would appeal to a unique target

2 Summer Beauty Tips to Help Beat the Heat

** To keep my skin from being too shiny and yet still fresh, I use blotting paper. They're great because when it's too hot and the last thing I want to do is put on make-up, the blotting paper takes away the shine but doesn't dry out my skin. ** During the summer I keep my facial moisturizer, lotions and sunscreen in the refrigerator. I feel cool and ready to start the day especially if it's

Good News for Huntress Fans: DC Comics will feature Huntress in a New Miniseries.

DC Comics will be releasing a miniseries titled "The Huntress" starting in October. According to writer Paul Levitz, the series will feature Huntress going on the hunt in Italy. As a fan of the character I am glad that they didn't phase her out, like I had previously thought. I do have to say, I am not sold on the new costume or the way the character is drawn on the cover. Hopefully the suit and

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Wordless Wednesday Linky: I love decorative sugar tongs

This post is shared with Trish's Tea Party Tuesday, Donna's Tuesday Tea Chat, Martha's Tea Cup Tuesday,  Terry's Tea Cup Tuesday, Wordless Wednesday, What I Love Wednesday, Vintage Share the Love Wednesday, Woo Us To Your Blog. Be sure to link your Wordless Wednesday post below. I have a WW linky each week, so be sure to follow me if you want to easily find this weekly linky.

~0~0~0~0~
I grew up

What I'm Currently Reading: The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

If you are a fan of fantasy books like Harry Potter or Percy Jackson, then you might be interested in The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan (who also wrote the Percy Jackson series). After reading a mystery book I wanted something a bit different. The Red Pyramid centers around an estranged brother and sister are trying to cope with the mysterious disappearance of their Egyptologist father. I'm on 70+

Monday, July 18, 2011

Joy of Desserts' Monday, Mmm...Dessert Recipe Linky Party

It's Joy of Desserts time. Time to link up your delicious dessert recipes.

Please remember common blog courtesy. Link to your post, not your blog so that readers can find your recipe even weeks and months from now. I link to you in my post, so please link to me in your post too. Enjoy visiting each other and discovering new blogs. This is what a linky party is all about.

This week's featured

Are Anne Hathaway and Amy Adams Miscast in the New DC Comics Superhero Movies?

Update: Man of Steel will not hit theaters until Summer 2013Anne Hathaway has mixed opinions from Batman fans regarding her for the role of Selina Kyle/Catwoman in "The Dark Knight Rises". Many think that she was miscast and only got the role because she was "Who's Hot" in Hollywood, which is similar to what fans are saying about Andrew Garfield who will be starring as the new "Spider-Man" in

Friday, July 15, 2011

Mayonnaise Hair Treatment Results.

Yesterday, I tried the mayonnaise hair treatment. The results were: my hair felt soft and I was surprised because I was expecting it to feel greasy or a little crunchy but it turned out so much better than I was expecting. The only thing I'd do differently next time, is to apply more. I have thick medium length hair and I wasn't sure I applied enough.I would say that this inexpensive treatment

Award: The Versatile Blogger

Marelie of Cookie Droplets has given me a Versatile Blogger Award. My sincere thanks to Marelie. If you haven't met her yet, hop on over there and you'll find lots of delicious Filipino food, both sweet and savory. Since the Philippines have many influences including French, Spanish, Chinese, American and more, you'll also get a world flavor. She often includes history of dish and background

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Recipe: French eclairs and cream puffs

Today is Bastille Day or French Independence Day so I thought I'd share a French dessert.  My Household Searchlight cookbook which I use each week for Vintage Recipe Thursday is definitely all-American.  There are very few foreign recipes and fewer French recipes, but I did manage to find cream puffs and eclairs.  You can click on the link for the Cream Puffs Recipe which I previously shared. 

What I'm Currently Reading: The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party (The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency)

Although I'm only half-way through The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party by Alexander McCall Smith, I can say that it is very good. The characters are very engaging and makes you want to know more about them. I can't put down this book until the mysteries are solved. I find "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" book series continues to be consist and wonderful to read. About the book:At a remote

Mayonnaise as a Hair Treatment: Yay or Nay?

I've always heard of using mayonnaise as a hair treatment, but never thought of trying it. So, today I'm going to see if it's an old wives tale or if it actually works.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Latest Obsession: Summer Dresses

One of the easiest pieces to wear this summer is a dress, especially when it's sweltering outside. I love accessorizing them with jewelry, belts or fun scarves and if the temperature starts to go down, with sweaters, blazers or wraps. What's not to love about the summer dress? Nothing.ECI Scarf Print Charmeuse Babydoll Dress $98.00 NordstromFlowering Sundress $22.80 Forever21Floral & Scroll Print

Cookbook Review: The Fearless Baker, not just for beginners

Emily Luchetti has the reputation for being one of the best pastry chefs in the country and has received the James Beard Award for Outstanding Pastry Chef.

The San Francisco Chef has published another cookbook, The Fearless Baker.  This book is aimed at beginning bakers who might even be afraid of the whole prospect of being in the kitchen, but don't be put off by that if you are more

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

goodreads, A Social Networking Site for Book Lovers

If you love reading books (including comic books), then goodreads is the site for you. goodreads is a Free site where book lovers can join to find out about new books or older books you might of been thinking of reading. You can also review and rate a book or read other members reviews. You can also set up your own library which includes books you are currently reading, have read and plan to

What Do You Think About DC Comics New 52 Line-up?

I am disappointed that DC has made such drastic changes to all the characters and have "retired or removed" some of my favorite characters such as Stephanie Brown (Batgirl) and Helena Bertinelli (Huntress) just to name a few.I think the Reboot is nonsense because making all these changes is not going to garner all the new readers that they are hoping for. If they're not reading comics now, how

Wordless Wednesday: I love teacups with pedestals

This post is shared with Tea Party Tuesday, Martha's Tea Cup Tuesday,  Terry's Tea Cup Tuesday, Wordless Wednesday, What I Love Wednesday, Vintage Share the Love Wednesday, Woo Us To Your Blog.

Be sure to sign in with the WW linky below.

When I was a child in France my mom always drank her tea or coffee out of a teacup with an elegant  and uncommon square foot or pedestal.  It was given to her

Monday, July 11, 2011

Mmm ... Your desserts are awesome; Come link up each Monday

Monday, Mmm ... Dessert.  :-)  It's time to link up your dessert recipes, but first I want to highlight a few  posts from our last dessert recipe linky party.

Trish at Sweetology 101 has a great post with historical anecdotes, facts, beautiful pictures, delicious recipes and Anne Boleyn as the guest of honor.  You don't want to miss it, so be sure to hop over there if you haven't yet seen her

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Vintage Recipe Thursday: Peppermint Ice Cream Recipe



Peppermint Crush Ice Cream
Welcome back to Vintage Recipe Thursday.  Please link up your Vintage Recipes below.  If you have an extra post from last Thursday, please feel free to link that one too.

If you didn't see my previous post, Blogger was having more problems last week.  I was not able to post on Wednesday or Thursday, and I was finally able to get back into Blogger to post just minutes

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Wordless Wednesday: I love special teaspoons for my tea

This post is shared with Tea Party Tuesday, Martha's Tea Cup Tuesday,  Terry's Tea Cup Tuesday, Wordless Wednesday, What I Love Wednesday, Vintage Share the Love Wednesday, I Love Blogging Wednesday Blog Hop, and Welcome Wednesday, Thursday Thirteen.

Be sure to sign in with the WW linky below.

Those of us who enjoy the art and pleasures of tea love all the paraphernalia too.  Today, I am

Friday, July 1, 2011

Halloween Costume Ideas for Married Couples

Halloween Costume for Couples

Costumes for couples should help spark your creativity whether the Halloween costumes are for a romantic couple, a parent and child, or siblings.

Halloween Pumpkin

While pumpkins are usually the symbol for Halloween, they can also be used at Thanksgiving time when you find pumpkin crafts for kids that pertain to Thanksgiving. Gourds, pumpkins, and squash are in plentiful supply after Halloween and the Pilgrims and Indians used pumpkins in their Thanksgiving feast, so why not find Thanksgiving pumpkin crafts for kids?

Halloween Costume 2011

Halloween Day

Halloween originated from the festival of Samhain (from the Old Irish language samain) that celebrated ancient Celtic people. The festival of Samhain is a celebration of the end of the harvest season in Gaelic culture, and is sometimes called the "Celtic New Year". Celtic people who embraced paganism hereditary festival use the opportunity to slaughter livestock and food hoarding in preparation

Dracula at White House

Obamas celebrate Halloween WASHINGTON - The White House turns spooky Halloween just days. President of the United States (U.S.) and First Lady Michelle Obama celebrating with a change of the White House into a place filled with ghosts. On Sunday, October 31 evening local time, children aged six to 14 years, along with children of U.S. military families are invited to celebrate Halloween with

Creepy creatures at Halloween

Halloween or Hallowe'en is a tradition of celebration the night of October 31, and especially celebrated in the United States. This tradition comes from Ireland, and taken by the Irish who emigrated to North America. Children celebrated Halloween by wearing scary costumes and going from door to door asking neighbors or chocolate candy, saying "Trick or treat!" Speech is a kind of "threat" which

Halloween

 The banner reads "Happy Halloween" which contains a call to celebrate Halloween in some corner of the city mounted in Jakarta. Halloween was already part of the culture of the metropolis. The Europeans, Americans and several countries in the world celebrate Halloween every year on October 31. In the Western world, the day believed to be a "victory over the ghost", is eagerly awaited. Lay people

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Back after Blogger problems preventing access

I finally have access to my blog again.  I jumped over to Twitter to see if others were having problems too, and sure enough, so many of us could not access our blogs and could not comment on the few blogs we could access.  So I missed Vintage Recipe Thursday.  First time ever.  Please feel free to link today's posts for our next Vintage Recipe Thursday on July 7th.

It's been about a month of

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Wordless Wednesday: I love this tea strainer; a work of art

This post is shared with Tea Party Tuesday, Tea Cup Tuesday, Wordless Wednesday, What I love Wednesday, I Love Blogging Wednesday Blog Hop, and Welcome Wednesday. Be sure to sign in with the WW linky below.

I was looking through Flickr and found this amazingly beautiful tea strainer, which I just had to share with all of you. It is a work of art, a real jewel, don't you think?



Russian

Monday, June 27, 2011

Monday, Mmm ... Dessert Recipe Linky

Thank you for linking your recipes! I love to visit your blogs, and I hope you enjoy visiting each other too.  Visiting each other is the best part of any linky party or blog hop, don't you think?  Let's all hyperlink to each other on our posts.  :-)

I'm featuring six bloggers this week, because there were so many tasty recipes and I want to spread some linky love.  Don't these look tasty? 

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Vintage Recipe Thursday: Rhubarb Sherbet Recipe

I have another frozen dessert recipe this week for all of us who can't resist ice cream and all of its cousins like sherbet, gelato, granita, et al.  This time it's Rhubarb Sherbet.

Please link up your vintage recipes and enjoy visiting each other.  Visiting each other is the best part of any linky party or blog hop, don't you think?  Let's hyperlink to each other on our posts.  :-)
I'm sharing

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Wordless Wednesday: I love tea-for-one teapots

This post is shared with Tea Party Tuesday, Tea Cup Tuesday, Wordless Wednesday, What I love Wednesday, I Love Blogging Wednesday Blog Hop, and Welcome Wednesday. Be sure to sign in with the WW linky below.

1. Tea for one, 2. Almost too pretty to use, 3. Love on my windowsill, 4. tea for one



Tweet

Monday, June 20, 2011

Monday, Mmm ... Dessert Recipe Linky Party



Trisha made these beautiful Pansy Shortbread Cookies at Sweetology
It's time to link up your favorite dessert recipes.

Which recipes caught your eyes last week?  Was it the Watermelon Shark, the Pansy Shortbread Cookies, or the Homemade Twix Bars?  Perhaps it was the Panna Cotta with Strawberries, or the Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes.

All seemed delicious and I am so pleased that you

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Vintage Recipe Thursday: Candied Ginger Ice Cream Recipe

Are you ready for ice cream season? It was foggy here in California yesterday, but the sun came out in the late afternoon, and all of a sudden it was almost hot. Before we know it, the temperatures are going to soar, and ice cream is one of the yummiest ways to cool down. So get ready with this delicious ginger ice cream recipe.

Do you have any ice cream recipes you would like to share with me

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Wordless Wednesday: I love beautiful teacups

This post is shared with Wordless Wednesday, What I love Wednesday, Tea Party Tuesday, Tea Cup Tuesday. Be sure to sign in with the linky below.


1. Vintage Royal Albert Old Country Roses Tea Set, 2. Royal Albert Lilly of the Valley (May) from the Flowers of the Month Collection, 3. Royal Albert, Gossamer, Grey Duo, 4. From Russia, Lomonosov's "Singing Garden" pattern.






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GIVEAWAY

Monday, June 13, 2011

Monday, Mmm ... Dessert: Recipe Linky Party Time



Marelie's Food for the Gods
Happy Monday!  It's time to link up your favorite dessert recipes.

All of last week's recipes were great.  I hope you all take the time to not only link up, but hop over to the recipes too.

Did you notice Marelie's Food for the Gods?  I sure did, and so did a couple other hostesses.

Take a look at all the orange and cranberry flavor bursting from Julie's cookies.

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Vintage Recipe Thursday: Cherry Mousse Recipe

Welcome back to Vintage Recipe Thursday. Please link your family or cookbook recipes in the linky below and enjoy visiting each other. :-)

Today, I'm sharing with you a cherry mousse recipe, because you know I love cherries.  :-)  If they are not quite in season yet in your state, fear not, this recipe actually calls for canned cherries.  There are only 4 ingredients, and if you use a can of

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Wordless Wednesday: I love cherries

Happy Wednesday to all. This post is shared with Wordless Wednesday and What I Love Wednesday. Be sure to use the linky below for your Wordless Wednesday posts.


1. Minneapolis Winter Cherry , Spoonbridge, Minnesota, 2. Sakura (cherry blossoms), 3. Rubies of my childhood, 4. West Moat (Explored) 8,000 visits to this photo. Thank you.



Some cherry posts you will like:
Choco-Cherry Dessert

MILLION DOLLAR PIE & HERSHEY CORN FLAKE BARS!


GARAGE SALE!

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

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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


HERSHEY CORN FLAKE BARS
INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Have you joined The Foodie Blogroll yet?

When I first started this blog several years ago, there weren't very many food blogs, and there were even fewer dessert blogs.  My blog was less than a month old when I ran across a great blog called The Leftover Queen written by Jenn.  I realized that she had just started a blogroll for us few foodies, so we could find each other, and I joined as soon as I met the requirements.  Jenn had lots of

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


Summer is here!

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

PINK LEMONADE PIE

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

PEACH CHEESECAKE PIE

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

Filling:

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

Topping:

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

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

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

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

The JUNE Giveaway is

“THREE BUNCHES OF HANGING TOBACCO LEAVES”



Monday, June 6, 2011

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


JUNE’S GIVEAWAY!

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

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

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

The JUNE Giveaway is

“THREE BUNCHES OF HANGING TOBACCO LEAVES”

THINGS I MISS

The sound of a wood screen door closing in the summer

Shopping in Woolworth's for Paper Dolls & Rubber Dollies

People dressing in their Sunday best for Church.

Women wearing hats

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

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

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


TEQUILA LIME CHICKEN FAJITAS

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

INGREDIENTS:

6 large boneless/skinless chicken breasts

Marinade:

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

Fajitas:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

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

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

Come link to the Monday, Mmm ... Dessert recipe party

 Here are just a few of the favorites from last week's Monday, Mmm ... Dessert:

Aebleskivers, one of Carlee's Denmark recipes from her great-grandmother.  You all know how much I love family and vintage recipes.  Aebleskiver: Danish Delicious.



Homemade Apricot Cranberry Fruit Roll Ups
at From Which Things Grow.
Apricot and cranberry fruit roll ups.  Cares has a very simple recipe for us to

Thursday, June 2, 2011

JUNE’S GIVEAWAY & STRAWBERRY JELLO CAKE!


JUNE’S GIVEAWAY!

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

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

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

The JUNE Giveaway is

“THREE BUNCHES OF HANGING TOBACCO LEAVES”


STRAWBERRY JELLO CAKE



An old family favorite.

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

Vintage Recipe Thursday: Raisin Squares

Come link your family recipes and other vintage recipes.  The linky is below so that we can all preserve these time-honored mini treasures.

This recipe isn't called a brownie, but that's exactly what it is.  It has raisins and nuts, but if you don't like nuts in brownies, you can of course omit.

Don't forget to enter my latest giveaway if you haven't yet done so.

I'm sharing this recipe with

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

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


MAY'S GIVEAWAY!

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



“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”


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



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



NO BAKE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER SEVEN LAYER BARS COOKIES

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

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

INGREDIENTS:

Cookie

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

Peanut Butter Filling

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

Pretzel Filling

1 Cup Crushed Pretzel Sticks

Chocolate Filling

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

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

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Dessert bars, buffets, tables: All pretty for the party

From wedding showers, weddings, baby showers, graduations, family reunions or 4th of July parties, there are lots of reasons to prepare a beautiful display of desserts. Whether you call them dessert bars, buffets, or tables, they will all feed a crowd, and add to the decorations of your celebration.  They might even be a focal point for your party.

There are a few key elements to remember when

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BONBONS & MAY'S GIVEAWAY!


May’s Monthly Giveaway!

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

The May Giveaway is

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”


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

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

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


CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BONBONS

This delicious recipe is an old family favorite!

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

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

Monday, May 30, 2011

Memorial Day Recipe Linky Party: Monday, Mmm ... Dessert

Happy Memorial Day to all.
You all share such wonderful recipes each week when you link up with Monday, Mmm ... Dessert.  Today, I'm featuring 4 of these great recipes.  While you're here, don't forget to enter for a chance to win a 2-pound Island Treasures Gourmet Rum Cake.  Just click on the link.



Lemon Fool prepared by Connie at Mrs. Mama Hen.
Conni at Mrs. Mama Hen made a Lemon Fool. 

Sunday, May 29, 2011

NATIONAL MOMENT OF REMEMBRANCE!




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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sundaes on Sunday

"My advice to you is not to inquire why or whither, but just enjoy your ice cream while it's on your plate."


Flickr/mauriziopani Maurizio Panicali
- Thornton Wilder

"Without ice cream, there would be darkness and chaos."
- Don Kardong, 1976 U.S. Olympic Marathoner

"Always serve too much hot fudge sauce on Hot Fudge Sundaes. It makes people overjoyed, and puts them in your debt."
- Judith

Friday, May 27, 2011

MY WISH FOR YOU!



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

MEMORIAL DAY

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

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

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

Enjoy the weekend!

Thursday, May 26, 2011

MARGARITA GRILLED CHICKEN SALAD & VANILLA ORANGE BALLS!






MARGARITA GRILLED CHICKEN SALAD

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

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






VANILLA ORANGE BALLS

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

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

MAY GIVEAWAY!

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

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

The May Giveaway is!

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”



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

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

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


Strawberry preserves recipe to enjoy for the rest of the year

Add your links below if you are participating in Vintage Recipe Thursday. I'm sharing about preserves today. I think more and more people may be interested, but our society has become so used to picking up a jar at the store, we may have 2 or 3 generations who have never preserved or canned before. This is how housewives did it back in the day when it was common.




Flickr/palachinka
Now's

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

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



SAUSAGE POTATO LASAGNA

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

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

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

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

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


CORN & BLUEBERRY SALAD

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

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


CHOCOLATE ECLAIR CAKE

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

ICING FOR CHOCOLATE ECLAIR CAKE:

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

Beat together and spread on cake. Refrigerate for 24 hours

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

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



CHICKEN & CREAMY CORN

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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


ROASTED POTATOES AND ONIONS

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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



JELLO RHUBARB CAKE

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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


Graduation cake inspiration

I'm always a proud mom, but this year our son is graduating, so that makes me a bit more proud.  I was searching for ideas for his graduation cake and I'm sharing for any of you who might also have a graduate in your life, but some of the cakes could work for other occasions too.  There are cakes for Super Grads of all ages from elementary school to university and graduate school. 

Monday, May 23, 2011

ROASTED ASPARAGUS, CAULIFLOWER WITH TOMATOES & TORNADO!


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



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


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

On a lighter note:


CAULIFLOWER WITH TOMATOES

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

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

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


ROASTED ASPARAGUS

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

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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


May’s Monthly Giveaway!

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

May"s Giveaway is

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”



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

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

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



Monday, Mmm ... Dessert: Recipe Linky Party

I'm changing things up a bit today and highlighting a few of the participating recipes from last week, the way I used to do with Save Room for Dessert.  Link your recipes to the linky below, and don't forget to enter my latest delicious giveaway before you leave.

I've been thinking of making our own granola lately, because it seems we need to make more and more from scratch to control quality of

Friday, May 20, 2011

Halloween party photos, Obama Also Participate

Halloween celebrations in many parts of the world run exciting and colorful. Various people tried to look different with the costumes and masks are creepy and scary.Halloween is held annually every October 31. This tradition originally came from the Irish who immigrated to North America. Children celebrated Halloween with spooky costumes and went from door to door ask for candy or chocolate,

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Recipe Linky Party and Coconut Strawberries Recipe

Calling all family recipes, and vintage cookbook recipes. It's time to link up those time-honored favorites for Vintage Recipe Thursday. Be sure to add your recipes to the linky below.

I also have a new giveaway, so don't miss out on your chance to win a delicious 2-pound Island Treasures Rum Cake made with award-winning Whaler's Rum.

Today's vintage recipe is called Coconut Strawberries.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Giveaway: Island Treasures Rum Cake

I have a new giveaway from Island Treasures Rum Cakes for all my wonderful followers.

These cakes are absolutely delicious, I wouldn't offer you anything less, and you can read my review of Island Treasures vanilla rum cake by clicking on the link.

Island Treasures Rum Cakes will give away one 32 oz. (2 lbs.) rum cake to one lucky follower.
 
1: You must be a follower to win, so if you're not

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Currently Reading: Percy Jackson Book 4: The Battle of the Labyrinth

I am a total book lover and I enjoy reading different types of books. Which is why I love reading the Percy Jackson series. I am currently reading the fourth book "Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Battle of the Labyrinth". It's fast pace and a great read. If you're a fan of Harry Potter or Greek mythology, I think you would really enjoy this series even if you're not a teenager.About the book:

Monday, May 16, 2011

A Lovely Blog Award from Marelie



Thank you, Marelie.
I've received this lovely blog award from Marelie at Cookie Droplets Etc.  She has a wonderful blog which I highly recommend that you visit.  She doesn't just post recipes.  She gives us a complete background on the recipes, exotic ingredients, Filipino foods, customs and history, so it is highly educational.  She is a lovely person too who always has a kind word, and you

Dessert Recipe: Hugs and Kisses Cookies

Time for another Monday, Mmm ... Dessert to link up your dessert recipes.  Do you love cream cheese?  Do you love chocolate?  Well you'll love this easy recipe.  Enjoy!

Hugs and Kisses Cookies Recipe


Flickr/Fotografia & Momentos
Hugs and Kisses
1 1/2 cups butter, softened
12 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 1/2 cups flour
about 30 Hugs and Kisses chocolates

Beat butter and cream cheese

Sunday, May 15, 2011

PIMENTO CHEESE, PIMENTO CHEESE BURGER & MAY GIVEAWAY!


May’s Monthly Giveaway!

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

The May Giveaway is

“Eight Homespun Wrapped Clothes Pins and Small Wooden Bowl”

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

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

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



PIMENTO CHEESE

Pimiento cheese is also known as "Southern caviar."

INGREDIENTS:

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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



PIMENTO CHEESE BURGER

INGREDIENTS:

Pimento Cheese:

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

Honey Slaw:

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

8 slices thick-cut applewood smoked bacon

Patties:

1 1/4 pounds ground chuck
1/4 pound cured and smoked country ham, finely chopped (or chopped in a food processor)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

4 potato hamburger buns, split
1/2 cup crushed kettle-cooked plain potato chips

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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