With a Grateful Prayer and a Thankful Heart

Loving Hands

2012-01-29T13:26:00.000-05:00

Keri's stay last week was short so she is spending a few more days here with us this week. I have been thinking that something my mom made would be fitting her soon and I was right.

Keri was happy to twirl about and model as Pop-Pop snapped pics.

♥

Whatever my mom put her hand to do, she did it with all of her might and ability.

Her many crochet projects are still enjoyed today by those she lovingly shared her gifts with.

As an engagement gift, Mommy crocheted this beautiful robe for me.
Its to-the-floor length and three-quarter sleeve is like wearing a warm afghan!
She spent many hours altering and designing a pattern, crocheting each stitch and sewing on each of the thirteen buttons down the front. It has a ruffly, Peter Pan collar and tie around the neck and bodice. I think it is made with a sport weight yarn.

I am wearing it in this photo with our oldest daughter, Erin when she was just a toddler.

Daddy Mommy and Erin Lee 1987

When Erin got a little older, Mommy made a child-size robe for her.
I can't seem to find the photos of Jill and Jamie wearing the robe but I did find one of our youngest daughter, Abbey.

Abbey ~ age 7

Now, our oldest granddaughter can remember her great-grandmother and enjoy the work of her hands as she joyfully wears the robe.

When Brenna arrives for a visit this spring, I know she too will want to have her turn.

And we all know, I will be ready with my camera.

♥♥♥

Velvet Noodle Pudding with Keri Jill

2012-01-26T12:22:00.011-05:00

Keri stayed overnight a few days ago and after she requested and ate a plateful of pancakes we tried a recipe I have been wanting to make for a very long time.

My brother-in-law, George would occasionally take us to dinner at a nearby Jewish Delicatessen that serves the very best Kugel. It is so, so creamy. Just like a cheesecake.

I have searched many recipes and just can't seem to find one like it. There are versions that include sour cream and/or cottage cheese. I decided to try a recipe in a cookbook that has been sitting in my Hoosier. Keri and I got busy right after breakfast making it.

It was very good!

but...
not nearly as creamy as what I was hoping.

So... I tried again.
I kept all of the measurements the same but halved the amount of noodles.

Delicious!

but...
still not like the kugel from the delicatessen.
Seriously, their kugel is heavenly!
We love this recipe and maybe somewhere down the line I will discover the creamiest version ever!
For now, this will bring on the smiles.

Velvet Noodle Pudding

from: Grandma Doralee Patinkin's Jewish Family Cookbook

by Doralee Patinkin Rubin

PRINT RECIPE
Ingredients
1/4 pound butter, melted
1 8-ounce package cream cheese
4 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces semi-broad noodles (cooked according to directions on package, drained, and rinsed with cold water) {My second time, I used

Topping:
1 cup crushed corn flakes
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. In a food processor or electric mixer, blend butter, cream cheese and eggs. Add sugar, milk and vanilla. Blend well. Transfer to a large bowl and add the cooked noodles. Blend. Pour into a greased oven-to-table 8 1/2 x 11-inch serving dish.

3. Combine topping ingredients and spread over noodles. Bake for 1 hour.

Makes 6 to 8 servings.

NOTES for my altered version:

I reduced the amount of noodles to 4 ounces.
Not sure if it helped but used a water bath to bake.

Linking to:

Home Sweet Home @The Charm of Home, Potpourri Friday @2805, Foodie Friday @Designs by Gollum, Fun Stuff Fridays @Toys in the Dryer, Sweet Tooth Friday @Alli & Sons, I'm Lovin' It @TidyMom, Strut Your Stuff Saturday @Six Sister's, Sunday's Best @My 1929 Charmer, The Sunday Showcase @Under the Table Dreaming

Crochet Heart Bobby Pins

2012-01-24T15:48:00.020-05:00

What little girl doesn't like pretty things in her hair. I know our little girls sure do!

♥

So when I saw these cute hair pins, I gathered snippets of yarn and my crochet hook to make a bunch.

Cheryl from Flower Girl Cottage graciously shared her Simple and Cute Crochet Heart Pattern.

After completing the hair pins, I played around with the pattern to see if I could give the hearts more of a point on the bottom. Just a Treble crochet seemed to do the trick. The heart on the left has the Treble Crochet, the heart on the right is the original pattern.

Here is my slightly adapted version of Cheryl's pattern for

Simple & Cute little Crochet Heart

I used worsted weight yarn and a 'G' hook

Form an adjustable circle (I ch 4 and slip stitch to the 1st ch to form a circle)
Chain 2
Work 4 Double Crochets, 1 Treble crochet and 4 more Double crochets into the circle.
Chain 2
(Do Not Join to first chain 2 stitches)
Slip Stitch into the Circle
Cut yarn bind off & slip loose end thru the center of circle to the back of your work
Pull the Circle Closed with the other loose end
Tie the loose ends together in a square knot
Trim off excess

I hot-glued a plain Bobby pin to the back of each finished heart and then glued a small square of felt on top.

The Bobby Pins were attached to a card made in a photo editing program and printed onto card stock.

After poking holes into the card stock, simply slide the Bobby Pin through.

Ready to send!

Now to come up with something for the boys.

Linking to:

Look What I Made @ Creations by Kara, Show and Tell @Blue Cricket Design, Wow Me Wednesday @Polkadots on Parade, Whatever You Want Wednesday @Pretty Things for You, Transformation Thursday @Shabby Creek Cottage, Valentines Party @Cheap Crafty Mama, A Pinteresting Party @Tutus & Tea Parties, Home Sweet Home @The Charm of Home,Show & Tell Friday @My Romantic Home, Feature Yourself Friday @ Fingerprints on the Fridge, Functional Friday @Not So Functional Housewife, Frugalicious Friday @Finding Fabulous, Fun Stuff Fridays @Toys in the Dryer, I'm Lovin' It @TidyMom, Strut Your Stuff Saturday @Six Sister's, Sharing Saturday @Mama Mia's Heart2Heart, Think Pink Sunday @Flamingo Toes, Sister Sunday @Sisters of the Wild West, Sunday's Best @My1929 Charmer, The Sunday Showcase @Under the Table Dreaming

Triple-Lemon Cheesecake

2012-01-19T07:00:00.031-05:00

Joining Kristen @ Frugal Antics of a Harried Homemaker for January's Improv Challenge.

Her two assigned ingredients this month are

lemons and sour cream.

Though this recipe contains lemon juice and lemon zest as well as a topping of Lemon Curd, the cream cheese is not overpowered in this creamy cheesecake.

Triple-Lemon Cheesecake
recipe comes from the cookbook
Luscious Lemon Desserts

PRINT RECIPE
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest, finely grated
3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons lemon juice, fresh squeezed
3 large eggs
1/2 cup lemon curd, store bought or follow my easy recipe to make your own, chilled

Directions
Position rack in the middle of the oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F,

Butter the bottom and side of a 9" springform pan. Have ready a roasting pan. Put on a kettle of water to boil for the water bath.

Stir together crumbs and butter with a fork in a medium bowl until combined well. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake 8-10 minutes or until crust is set; let cool on a wire rack. Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F.

Process sugar and zest in a food processor until zest is finely ground.

In a medium bowl with an electric mixer, beat cream cheese beginning on low speed & increasing to medium-high, until light and fluffy.

Gradually add sugar mixture, scraping down the side of the bowl with a rubber spatula, continue beating until smooth.

Add sour cream, lemon juice; beat until well blended. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Wrap the outside of the springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil, then pour the filling into the pan; set it in the roasting pan. Place the roasting pan in the oven and carefully pour in enough boiling water into the roasting pan to reach halfway up the side of the springform pan.

Bake for 70-75 minutes or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. DO NOT OVERBAKE ~ The cheesecake will firm as it cools.

Remove the roasting pan from the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the water bath for 15 minutes. Remove from the bath; let it cool on a wire rack.

Remove the foil; refrigerate the cheesecake in its pan, loosely covered, for at least 8 hours or overnight, until thoroughly chilled.

Run a table knife around the inside edge of the pan; remove the pan's side. Spread the lemon curd over the top of the cheesecake. Let stand at room temperature for 20 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve.

RECIPE NOTE: I added 2 Tbs. of sugar to the graham cracker crumbs and butter to form the crust.

Click photo for recipe to make your own Lemon Curd
Linking to:
Foodie Friday, Potpourri Party @2805, Show & Tell Friday @My Romantic Home, Design Dazzle, Friday Favorite Finds, I'm Lovin' It @TidyMom, Home Sweet Home @The Charm of Home, Sweet Tooth Friday @Alli & Sons, Frugalicious Friday @Finding Fabulous, Strut Yourself Saturday @Six Sisters' Stuff, Think Pink Sundays @Flamingo Toes, Made by You Monday @Skip to My Lou, Tempt My Tummy Tuesday @Blessed With Grace, Your Seriously Made That!?, Show Me What Ya Got, Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style, What's It Wednesday @Ivy and Elephants, Home Decor and Organizing Party, Show and Tell @Blue Cricket Design, Wow Me Wednesday @Polkadots on Parade, Whatever You Want Wednesday @Pretty Things for You, January Link-Up @A Crafty Cook, Transformation Thursday @Shabby Creek Cottage, Functional Friday @Not So Functional Housewife, Sister Sunday @Sisters of the Wild West

A few pics from the week

2012-01-14T21:30:00.000-05:00

A full moon

A very light, over-night snow that was gone by noon

A fun visit with my sweet cousin

{my decorations are packed away by Jan 1st. Karen's are up into February}

♥

Waffles

2012-01-08T16:10:00.027-05:00

We start our mornings early and when our grandson is here, he leaves for school by 7am.

He doesn't always want to eat breakfast but when he does, he can down a hearty serving of these waffles.

Sometimes I make them ahead and allow to cool completely.

Then seal in freezer zip-close bags.

When needed, just pop them into the toaster for a few minutes.

They are really easy to make and cost just pennies.

They come out of the waffle maker easily and all of the grandchildren love them.

Waffles

Source: Allrecipes.com

PRINTER VERSION

Servings: 6

INGREDIENTS:

2 eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 3/4 cups milk

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 tablespoon white sugar

4 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat waffle iron. Beat eggs in large bowl with hand beater until fluffy. Beat in flour, milk, vegetable oil, sugar, baking powder, salt and vanilla, just until smooth.

2. Spray preheated waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray. Pour mix onto hot waffle iron. Cook until golden brown. Serve hot.

measure scant 1/2 cup and bake about 2 mins in waffle maker

Linking to:
Feature Yourself Friday @Fingerprints on the Fridge
Foodie Friday @Designs by Gollum
Potpourri Friday @2805
One Stop Shoppe @The Southern Product Queen
Show Off Your Stuff @Fireflies and Jellybeans
Strut Your Stuff @Somewhat Simple
Delightfully Inspiring Thursday @Delightful Order
Tasty Tuesday @ Balancing Beauty and Bedlam
Whatever You Want Wednesday @Free Pretty Things For You
Wow Us Wednesdays @Savvy Southern Style
Look What I Made! @Creations by Kara
Home Decor and Organizing Party @Organize and Decorate Everything
Ivy and Elephants
Get Your Craft on Tuesday @Today's Creative Blog
T' Time @Raising 4 Princesses
Show Me What Ya Got @Not Just a Housewife
Tuesdays at the Table @All the Small Stuff
Tempt My Tummy Tuesday @Blessed With Grace
Made By You @Skip to My Lou
Metamorphosis Monday @Between Naps on the Porch

5 Years Old

2012-01-06T10:38:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, Dear Ella.

♥

It was so special spending the day with you celebrating your 5th birthday!

You picked chocolate cake with chocolate frosting.

So that's what we made.

I sang Happy Birthday to you and you blew out your candles.

Then you wanted to do it again.

So we did.

You wanted to play domino's with your Princess Domino's over and over.

So we did.

You were such a wee one when you first starting coming to my house each week.

We've spent so much time together you're like one of my own.

And you will forever hold a place in my heart!

♥

Honey Cornbread Muffins

2012-01-03T22:07:00.015-05:00

Lighter fare is the menu after all of the overindulgence through the holidays.

Today it was a hot bowl of Hamburger Barley Vegetable Soup and these tasty little corn muffins from

Patrick and Gena Neely.

They are sweet and moist and if I'm not careful, I could once again overindulge on these!

Honey Cornbread Muffins

Recipe courtesy The Neelys

PRINT RECIPE

1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1/2 stick butter, melted
1/4 cup honey

Special equipment: paper muffin cups and a 12-cup muffin tin
Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Into a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, butter, and honey. Add the wet to the dry ingredients and stir until just mixed.

Place muffin paper liners in a 12-cup muffin tin. Evenly divide the cornbread mixture into the papers. Bake for 15 minutes, until golden.

NOTE: I baked mini muffins for 11-12 minutes and got 3.5 dozen

Linking to :
Party Mindie Style @Bacon Time
Think Pink Saturday's @Flamingo Toes
Strut Your Stuff @Six Sisters' Stuff
Sweet Tooth Friday @Alli and Sons
I'm Lovin' it Fridays @TidyMom
Fun Stuff Friday @Toys in the Dryer
Feature Yourself Friday @ Fingerprints on the Fridge
Show & Tell Friday @My Romantic Home
Michael Lee West for Foodie Friday at Designs by Gollum
Potpourri Friday @2805
T' Time @Raising 4 Princessses
Delightfully Inspiring Thursday @Delightful Order

Cranberry Mold

2012-01-02T07:19:00.005-05:00

Cranberry Mold

This recipe shared from my friend, Anne, when our kids were all small, does not require the cranberries to be cooked. It is tart, sweet and crunchy!

PRINT RECIPE

1 bag cranberries (12-oz), finely chopped (I used a food processor)

1 small cherry Jell-O
2 Red Delicious apples, finely chopped
1 cup chopped nuts
1 1/4 cup sugar

Make Jell-O using 1/2 cup boiling water and 1/2 cup cold water. Put in refrigerator to thicken slightly. Fold in remaining ingredients until well blended; spoon into serving bowl or mold.

Refrigerate until firm.

Linking to:
Whatever You Want Wednesday @Free Pretty Things For You
Wow Us Wednesdays @Savvy Southern Style
Look What I Made! @Creations by Kara
Home Decor and Organizing Party @Organize and Decorate Everything

Lovely Gifts

2012-01-01T07:45:00.000-05:00

I hit the jackpot this December winning these giveaways!

A beautiful ornament made by Cindy @Letters From Midlife that is perfect on my white and aqua tree along with the cutest little glittered snowman gift card that looks adorable nestled in the tree branches of my family room tree.

~*~

I also won a copy of the book, The One Year Uncommon Life Daily Challenge by Tony Dungy and Nathan Whitaker, Tyndale House Publishers from Cindy's other blog, Books and Chocolate. Sharing this one with my husband and grandson!

~*~

The Origami 101 book from Ann @All Things Paper has my paper folding fingers very excited! It comes with a DVD to help with each fold.

~*~

I can't count how many times I have already used this AreoPress received from Mari @Once Upon a Plate. Easy to use and a very smooth cup of coffee. I couldn't wait to make a cup for my coffee loving/Barista son-in-law. He had already heard of it and said he wants to get one himself!

Thank you all for these special gifts!

Now, I have a few giveaways too as we enter this New Year.

Look for the first one real soon!

Vignettes of 2011

2011-12-31T06:58:00.000-05:00

You crown the year with your bounty,

and your carts overflow with abundance
Psalm 65:11

Philly with the NY Kids

2011-12-29T08:14:00.000-05:00

It was blustery and windy but bright and sunny as we walked down Market Street

The Holiday light show in the old John Wanamaker's building (Now Macy's)

From Wikipedia:Wanamaker's department store was the first department store in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and one of the first department stores in the United States.

John Wanamaker, the founder of the store that bears his name, was unable to join the U.S. Army during theAmerican Civil War because of a persistent cough. Having been rejected from war duty, he ventured into business with his brother-in-law, Nathan Brown. In 1861, they founded a men's clothing store in Philadelphia called Oak Hall. Wanamaker carried on the business alone after Brown's death in 1868. In 1876, Wanamaker purchased the abandoned Pennsylvania Railroad station for use as a new, larger retail location. The concept was to renovate the terminal into a "Grand Depot" similar to London's Royal Exchange or Paris's Les Halles—two central markets, and forerunners of the modern department store, that were well-known in Europe at that time.

The Wanamaker's Grand Depot opened in time to service the public visiting Philadelphia for the American Centennial Exposition of 1876, and in fact resembled one of the many pavilions at that world's fair because of its fanciful new Moorish facade. In 1877 the interior of Wanamaker's was refurbished and expanded to include not only men's clothing, but women's clothing and dry goods as well

Wanamaker first thought of how he would run a store on new principles when, as a youth, a merchant refused his request to exchange a purchase. A practicing Christian, he chose not to advertise on Sundays. Before he opened his Grand Depot for retail business, he let evangelist Dwight L. Moody use its facilities as a meeting place, while Wanamaker provided 300 ushers from his store personnel. His retail advertisements—the first to be copyrighted beginning in 1874—were factual, and promises made in them were kept.

Wanamaker guaranteed the quality of his merchandise in print, allowed his customers to return purchases for a cash refund and offered the first restaurant to be located inside a department store. Wanamaker also invented the price tag.

His employees were to be treated respectfully by management (including not being scolded in public), and John Wanamaker & Company offered its employees access to the John Wanamaker Commercial Institute, as well as free medical care, recreational facilities, profit sharing plans, and pensions—long before these types of benefits were considered standard in corporate employment.

Innovation and "firsts" marked Wanamaker's. The store was the first department store with electrical illumination (1878), first store with a telephone (1879), and the first store to install pneumatic tubes to transport cash and documents (1880)

There is so much more to learn about John Wanamaker and the department store. Follow link to read complete Wikipedia article.

Another visit to 1840 Victorian London streets to walk through
Charles Dickens
A Christmas Carol at Macy's.
Click above photo for larger viewing

Abbey and Jared, as always, having fun

We walked to the Reading Terminal Market ~ an amazing place!

Notice the gigantic wild shrimp in the center-left photo! They were bigger than the super jumbo and $26.99 a pound.

I had Shaela hold up her hand to try and show just how big these were.

The cold weather didn't stop us from enjoying some ice-cream.

We shivered as we ate it but ice-cream is so worth it.

Lots of giggles along the way

At home, Rudy had a blast instigating Raider. Raider complained and tattled on Rudy.
'He's bothering me!"

2011 Craft/Project Recap

2011-12-28T21:12:00.001-05:00

Linking to

Potpourri Friday @2805

Turkey Wild Rice Soup

2011-12-27T22:44:00.006-05:00

Turkey Wild Rice Soup

A Christmas Day Dinner tradition

Print Recipe

2 (10 3/4-oz) cans condensed chicken broth OR 6-cups chicken broth/stock and omit water

2 cups water (omit if using chicken stock)
1/2 cup uncooked wild rice, rinsed

1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp poultry seasoning
1/8 tsp pepper
2 cups half-and-half (I use fat free half-and-half)
1 1/2 cups cubed, cooked, turkey or chicken
8 slices bacon, crisply cooked, crumbled
1 tbs. chopped pimento
2 to 3 Tbs. dry sherry, if desired

I large saucepan, combine chicken broth and water. Add wild rice and green onions; cover. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover simmer 35-40 minutes or until rice is tender.

Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off. In medium saucepan, melt butter: stir in flour, salt, poultry seasoning and pepper. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly; until smooth and bubbly.

Gradually stir in half-and-half; cook until slightly thickened; stirring constantly.

Slowly add half-and-half mixture into rice mixture; stirring constantly.
Add remaining ingredients

Heat gently, stirring frequently; do not boil. Garnish each serving with additional green onion and bacon.

NOTE: You can tell this is an old recipe because I don't think Campbell's makes cans of condensed chicken broth any more.

Linking to:
Tutorial Tuesday @Hope Studios
Tempt My Tummy Tuesday @Blessed With Grace
What's Cooking Wednesday @The Kings Court IV
Countdown to 2012 @Finding Joy in My Kitchen
Look What I Made Wednesday @Creations by Kara
Foodie Friday @Designs by Gollum

With Family

2011-12-26T12:00:00.000-05:00

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Giving thanks to God for sending His Son for us

Christmas Eve Cousin time

The big kids

together

taking turns reading the Christmas Story before bed

Christmas Morning

Snuggle time

Jamie Josh and their children (with one on the way)

Keri Noah Silas Caleb Cambrie

Jill and Brad and their children, Ryan, Brenna and Shaela

Erin and Jared ~ Me and John

Silas Shaela Cambrie and Aunt Abbey

boys in hats & chocolate wand pretzels

Our Family

One More Sleep til Christmas

2011-12-24T13:57:00.002-05:00

It took a little while to get to this...

from this.

Rudy (the Yorkiepoo) is visiting from NY with his family and Raider (the Schnauzer) has made great strides tolerating his presence. First there was lots of barking from Raider and lots of instigating from Rudy.

Now they are becoming friends (almost)

♥
Heading to Christmas Eve service at 5 them home for new jammies, yummy food and treats, a couple of stories by the Christmas tree and enjoying each other.
I suspect there will be more than just pups running around with all the grandchildren here.
Can't wait!

Crochet Wreath Tags

2011-12-22T08:46:00.011-05:00

Super quick ~ Super easy

You can make a stack of gift tags to decorate your packages in very little time.

Tiny Crochet Wreath

I used worsted weight acrylic yarn for the white wreaths and cotton for the ecru wreaths with a G hook

chain 6

Join with slip st in 1st chain to form circle

Ch 1

15-17 (depending how tight you want your wreath) single crochets in ring

Slip st in first sc

Finish off

Knot ends and cut away extra yarn.

Add tiny ribbon bow. (I used fabric glue but hot glue would work too)

Attach to a folded piece of card stock and you're finished :)

Instead of making tags...

Add a tiny pin to back to wear on clothing

Add a loop and hang as an ornament

Linking to

One Stop Shoppe @The Southern Product Queen

Made Up & Loved @Space 46

Show Me What Ya Got @Not Just A Housewife

Get Your Craft on Tuesday @Today's Creative Blog

Potpourri Friday @2805

Crazy Cute Thursdays @Between U & Me

Transformation Thursday @The Shabby Creek Cottage

Show & Tell Friday @My Romantic Home

Made By You Monday @Skip to My Lou

Lemon Curd

2011-12-19T18:26:00.015-05:00

Poured into pretty stemware (from the Christmas Tree Shop), covered with plastic wrap and bedecked with a satin bow, these sweet gifts will be given to friends.

A couple of months ago, I made my first batch of lemon curd. My oldest grandson, Jared and I love all things lemon. And apparently my youngest granddaughter, Cambrie loves the tart, bright lemon flavor too. With Cambrie sitting on my lap, I gave her a tiny spoonful of Lemon Curd. And then another... and another... and another. No sooner had she swallowed, she was saying, "mor, mor."

Unfortunately, I was not able to find that recipe so had to search again.

I followed the ingredient list from my friend Paula's blog and the directions from another blog.

Lemon Curd is super easy and fast to make using the microwave.

Spread it on toast or scones

use as a topping for berries or cheesecake

or do what Cambrie and I do... eat it with a spoon :)

Lemon Curd

Recipe adapted from Salad in a Jar and My Baking Addiction

Print Recipe
Ingredients:

3/4 cup sugar
3 eggs

1 egg yolk

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
grated rind from 2 lemons (I used about 2 rounded Tablespoons)
1/2 cup butter, melted and cooled slightly

Directions:

In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until smooth. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest and butter.

Cook in the microwave, high power for 3-4 minutes at 1 minute intervals, stirring well after each minute, until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a metal spoon. (I cooked for 1 minute twice then 30 seconds and finally three times at 15 seconds). Pour into small sterile jars.

NOTES:

After squeezing the lemons, I poured the juice through a strainer to catch the seeds and pulp. The first batch, I did not strain out the pulp. I did notice tiny bits of pulp in the finished mixture but it was pleasant and I thought it added a bit of brightness to the taste. If you want yours silky smooth, strain out the pulp.
I whisked the eggs well to be sure they incorporated completely with no pieces of cooked egg in the curd.
The Lemon Curd can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. Paula said it can be stored in the freezer up to a year.
This recipe filled three glasses (each glass held about 3/4 cup) with a little leftover.

Linking to:

Tuesdays at the Table @All the Small Stuff

Get Your Craft on Tuesday @Today's Creative Blog

What's It Wednesday @Ivy and Elephants

Sweet Tooth Friday @Alli n Son

Creating Success Around the World @ MeiJo's Joy

Table Top Tuesday @A Stroll Thru Life

Look What I Made @Creations by Kara

Home Decor and Organizing Party @Organize and Decorate Everything

Whatever You Want Wednesday @Free Pretty Things for You

Delightfully Inspiring Thursday @Delightful Order

Foodie Friday @Designs by Gollum

A Child Again

2011-12-18T12:30:00.000-05:00

it starts with the sound of the sirens in the distance...

and builds as the shrill intensifies and the fire truck rounds the corner with lights flashing...

a little girl of long ago, excitedly emerges and waves as Santa drives by the house...

I am transported back many years with the same excitement filling my heart... every year!

John asked, 'Doesn't it look a little silly you being out here waving to Santa without any children around?' Ah, but there is a child here!

For it is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty Founder was a child himself.

I assume I get this charge because my parents made a big deal of Santa when we were children. My Mom and Dad did not come to know the Good News and embrace Jesus as their Savior until they were in their later years. Though Santa was never the focus of our Christmas celebration of Christ's birth, and our grandchildren have always understood the fantasy of Santa, I think their Mom-Mom will always run out to wave as the fire truck passes by.

A photo snapped Friday evening, just before John & I left to attend his company Christmas Party.
We had a wonderful time.

White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread

2011-12-15T13:46:00.018-05:00

I am getting together with three of my dearest friends for a small Christmas Cookie Exchange.

Wanting to try a recipe I had in my file for a few years I finally made these pretty little cookies.

Though tiny in size they are BIG on flavor.

Each cookie measures just over 1.5-inches but could easily be made larger by rolling bigger balls.

White-Chocolate Cherry Shortbread

Better Homes and Gardens Recipe

Printable Recipe

Yield: 60 cookies

Prep: 40 mins

Bake: 325°F 10 mins

Ingredients
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped (I used my little Oscar)
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup cold butter
12 ounces white chocolate baking squares with cocoa butter, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 drops red food coloring (optional - I used more)
2 teaspoons shortening
White nonpareils and/or red edible glitter (optional)

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Spread cherries on paper towels to drain well.

2. In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar. Using a pastry blender, cut in the butter until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Stir in drained cherries and 4 ounces (2/3 cup) of the chopped chocolate. Stir in almond extract and, if desired, food coloring. Knead mixture until it forms a smooth ball.

3. Shape dough into 3/4-inch balls. Place balls 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Using the bottom of a drinking glass dipped in sugar, flatten balls to 1-1/2-inch rounds.

4. Bake in preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until centers are set. Cool for 1 minute on cookie sheet. Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let cool.

5.In a small saucepan, combine remaining 8 ounces white chocolate and the shortening. Cook and stir over low heat until melted. Dip half of each cookie into chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. If desired, roll dipped edge in nonpareils and/or edible glitter. Place cookies on waxed paper until chocolate is set. Makes about 60.

Storage Layer cookies between waxed paper in an airtight container; cover. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

NOTE: I used the large end of a melon baller to measure out the dough before rolling.

Makes 60 cookies @87 Calories each

Linking to

Potpourri Party @2805
Crazy Cute Link Party @Between U & Me
What's It Wednesday @Ivy and Elephants
Foodie Friday @Designs by Gollum
Transformation Thursday @The Shabby Creek Cottage
Show & Tell Friday @My Romantic Home
Holly Bloggy Christmas Party @Simply Sweet Home
Wednesday's WOW @This Good Steward
Sweet Tooth Friday @Alli n Son
Feature Yourself Friday @Fingerprints on the Fridge
Think Pink Sundays @Flamingo Toes
Sweet Indulgences @A Well-Seasoned Life
The Sunday Showcase Party @Under The Table Dreamer
Anything Goes @Eye Heart
Made by You Monday @Skip to me Lou
Share the Love Wednesday @Very Merry Vintage Style
Wow Us Wednesdays @Savvy Southern Style

Silly Hats

2011-12-11T11:17:00.014-05:00

For the Boys

(Thank you , Ella, for modeling the angry birds hats)

There are going to been some silly noggins Christmas morning at my house. If Ella is any indication, they are going to have a blast wearing these hats!

Easy to follow Angry Foul Pattern purchased from Snappytots
to see post For the Girls: Crochet Boutique Bags (click photo or link)

Linking to: Mosaic Monday @Little Red House
The Sunday Showcase Party @Under the Table Dreaming
Anything Goes at Eye Heart @Eye Heart
Made By You Monday @Skip to my Lou
Get Your Craft on Tuesday @ Today's Creative Blog
Creating Success Around the World @MeiJo's JOY
Wow Us Wednesday @ Savvy Southern Style
Sew Crafty Tuesday @Ruby Jean
Look What I Made @Creations by Kara
Whatever You Want Wednesday @Free Pretty Things for You
Fun Stuff Fridays @Toys in the Dryer

Friends & Fireplace

2011-12-09T06:21:00.002-05:00

Our weekly Bible Study group got together Wednesday evening for our annual Christmas dinner party.

I am so blessed by each person in this photo! What a wealth of Godly wisdom and character each person brings to the group. We love each other dearly as we encourage and pray for one another on our journey through this world toward our Heavenly home

Between Dinner and Dessert, we gathered in the family room for a photo in front of the fireplace

When we moved into our home 27 years ago, this fireplace had a fake brick front and a small, rough-hewn board for the mantle. John and I designed and built the new mantle and added marble to the front and the hearth. The wood-burning stove insert is what keeps us toasty warm through the winter.

We also added the windows to bring light into the room.

The metal screen belonged to my mom. She used it in front of a decorative fireplace.

The counted cross-stitch Silent Night was made and framed many years ago and comes out each Christmas.

The Scherenschnitte (German for paper cutting) were made several years ago from patterns I found in a book and patterns shared by Cindy.

At Abbey's request, we brought the tree back to the family room. The last few years it has been in the living room but she wanted a change this year.

I wish the room was as large as it appears in this photo!
It gets pretty crowded when all the kids are here.

The coffee table that holds our Christmas Eve hearty appetizer dinner.
One of the only times I allow food in the family room...
after Candlelight Service and the kids are snugly in their jammies while Pop-Pop reads
The Night Before Christmas.
I think at least two of the little ones actually pay attention through the whole story ;)
It is just too hard to be still with cousins visiting and Christmas Day just one more sleep away.

The quaint village waits in anticipation for Jill and family to arrive and join their cousins to watch the trains go round and round the tracks with horn tooting and tiny puffs of smoke billowing from the engine.

Linking to:

Show & Tell Friday @My Romantic Home

Another finished Christmas Gift

2011-12-08T11:30:00.004-05:00

For our oldest

A set of cotton washcloths and facial scrubbers

So she'll feel pampered

Crochet Circular Facial Scrubbie

slightly adapted from Kristy Ashmore pattern

Worsted weight cotton yarn

G hook

Row 1

ch 3, 12 dc in first ch, join with sl stitch in first dc.

Row 2

ch 2, 2 dc in each stitch around. Join with sl stitch in first dc

Row 3

ch 2 (1 dc in next stitch, 2 dc in the next stitch) around. Join with sl stitch in first dc.

Row 4

ch 1, sl stitch in each stitch around, join, fasted off. (I like to secure ends with a square knot)

Crochet Cotton Washcloth

pattern by Priscilla Hewitt

Worsted weight cotton yarn
Crochet Hook size H (I use a G to keep stitches tight when wet)

Ch 28

Row 1
Hdc in the 2nd ch from hook, (sc in the next ch, dc in the next ch)
12 times, sc in the next ch, hdc in the last ch; ch 1, turn.

Row 2
Hdc in the first hdc, (dc in the next sc, sc in the next dc) 12 times, dc in the next sc, hdc in the last hdc; ch 1, turn.

Row 3
Hdc in the first hdc, (sc in the next dc, dc in the next sc) 12 times, sc in the next dc, hdc in the last hdc; ch 1, turn.

Rows 4-25
(Repeat rows 2 and 3) 11 times; do not ch 1 at the end of row 25.

Row 26: Sl st in each st across. Fasten off.

linking to:

Frugalicious Friday @Finding Fabulous

Think Pink Sundays @ Flamingo Toes

Homemade in December Link Carnival @Blissful and Domestic

A Greeting from Raider and a Sweet Video

2011-12-05T18:18:00.000-05:00

Looking merry as ever

I think I hear him mumbling, 'bah, Humbug'!

An old curmudgeon on the outside but a sweet pup on the inside.

I love my Raider

♥
Joining Bunny Jeans Christmas Pet Parade

~And, a very sweet video that warmed my heart:~

Finished Crochet Boutique Bags

2011-12-04T18:15:00.008-05:00

for the little girls on our list

I lined these little bags so none of the treasures little girls keep would fall through the holes.

Pattern generously shared by Sara @Tangled Happy

Thank you, Sara, for your wonderful blog and being so sweet!

Linking to The Sunday Showcase Party @Under the Table Dreaming
Get Your Craft on Tuesday @Today's Creative Blog
Home Decor and Organizing Party @Organize and Decorate Everything
Whatever You Want Wednesday @Free Pretty Things for You
Wow Us Wednesday @Savvy Southern Style
Crazy Cute Thursdays @ Between U & Me

New York City Fun

2011-12-02T22:35:00.003-05:00

John and I treated ourselves to a short getaway.

An overnight trip to NYC.

We drove to Hammilton, NJ then took the train to the NY Penn Station.

A few blocks and we were at our hotel.

Our first stop was Radio City Music Hall to see the Rockettes.

It was a beautiful show!

Very festive

After the show, we walked and walked and enjoyed the tall buildings and the liveliness of the city.
John calculated that we walked more than 60 blocks!
Oh, our aching feet and legs :)

We oohed and aahed at amazing jewelry and sporty cars.

We strolled Rockefeller Center to see the lighted Christmas tree.

While reading a post of a blogging friend (Pat @Mille Fiori Favoriti) we really wanted to visit Rolf's German Restaurant. I found the over-the-top abundance of holiday decoration quite festive and fun.

It seemed the other guests did too as the room was filled with a happy crowd.

I had read reviews that are not all favorable so went more for the decor than the food.

Our server was very sweet, friendly and attentive.

She had no problem when we asked to be moved to a different table as the one we were seated at was very tight. The tables are squeezed in but our fellow diners were of the friendly sort and it didn't bother us.

John ordered Wiener Schnitzel with green beans and spätzle. He loved the meat but found the spätzle too bland. I had the Roast Loin of Pork, braised red cabbage with mashed potatoes that I really enjoyed. The Apple Strudel for dessert was good but way over priced. ($12.00) which brought us to the one thing that we were surprised by. Apparently the holiday season is when the prices are hiked up. The on-line menu that we checked just before we left for our trip listed prices for entrees ~ those same entrees were each $9 more on their Christmas Menu. Maybe that is typical but we were not expecting it.

The small dining area was really beautiful in my opinion.

A lovely way to usher in the Christmas season.

The highlight of our trip was meeting up with a fellow blogger who lives and works in the city.

Her blog is Buttercup Counts her Blessings and it is a fitting name for this sweet, sweet lady!

We chatted and walked and thoroughly enjoyed her company. She was our guide as we strolled down the streets taking in the beautifully decorated windows and nighttime in the city.

So personable and down-to-earth, our conversations flowed freely and our blogging friendship grew to a real-life friendship.

Our experience in this city was so much grander thanks to Buttercup.

She knew just the right places to take us.

When we came to this window I couldn't help but to think of another blogger who does amazing paper cutting. I had to snap these photos just for Snippety Gibbet.

One of the most beautiful places we saw was The Plaza.

It is stunning inside and out.

We finished our evening together at a cozy place where we enjoyed more conversation along with some warm beverages and of course, something sweet.

A perfect way to end the day.

Linking to Mosaic Monday @Little Red House

Sweet Nostalgia

2011-11-29T18:12:00.007-05:00

My Christmas trees have some new ornaments this year.

Or, rather old, vintage ornaments that once hung from the branches of the trees we knew as children.

My little white feather tree is adorned with white and gold pine cones, musical instruments and a few other baubles that I brought home from my mom's as we were emptying her home.

The family room tree now has mercury glass ornaments.
Daddy loved color and these were his favorite.
I have little white lights ~ Daddy had the large colored light bulbs.

It makes me feel happy to now have these special ornaments on my Christmas tree.

Linking to:

What's It Wednesday @ Ivy and Elephants Linky Party Launch

White Wednesday @Faded Charm

Knick of Time Tuesday @Knick of Time

Home Decor and Organizing Link Party @Organized and Decorate Everything
Show & Tell Friday @My Romantic Home
Christmas Tree @2805

We've Been Decking the Halls

2011-11-27T16:45:00.008-05:00

In the dining room
(paper star tutorial here)

In the family room

In the living room

in the kitchen

Inside and out

Linking to:
Mosaic Monday @Little Red House
Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style
Whatever You Want Wednesday @Free Pretty Things for You
Wednesday's WOW @This Good Steward
Blogger Block Christmas Party @ No Minimalist Here

Thanksgiving Brunch and Dinner

2011-11-24T23:25:00.001-05:00

We started our day at Jamie's for a delicious brunch and playtime with the kids

Jamie made pancakes, french toast, eggs, hash-brown potatoes, Monkey bread, sausage, bacon and a pretty punch.

After dishes were washed it was bath time for Cambrie.

In these photos, I thought I noticed a resemblance to my baby pic (in top left photo) at least in the eyes.

~*~

Since both Jill and Jamie were planning to have Thanksgiving dinner with their in-laws and Erin wasn't able to be here, I thought our dinner would be just John, me and Abbey. My sister said no way and invited us to join her family.

I was thrilled to spend time with her and see her four, adorable granddaughters as well as the others that were there.

It was a wonderful day of feasting, laughing and spending time together.

Top: John, Joe and Abbey

Bottom, Carol Lorrie Chrissy and Toni

It was a long, wonderful day!

It started early and ended late.

Lots to do tomorrow, but it won't begin first thing.

John informed me that we are sleeping in!

Do I hear someone saying... ewww!

2011-11-22T06:20:00.002-05:00

I can relate.

You either love it or hate it.

I went from yuck to yum.

I inherited my love of succotash from my dad.

It just took a long time for my taste buds to realized it.

It wasn't until...

I was expecting Abbey.

Never one to have pregnancy cravings, I suddenly developed a love of succotash!

I ate a lot of succotash those 9 months.

And guess what?

Abbey LOVES succotash too.

:)

I admit, there are just a few at our Thanksgiving table that let this veggie dish pause at their plate and scoop out a spoonful. Most pass it quickly to the person next to them.

For those few, it continues to appear.

Succotash

Printable Version
2 cups fresh or frozen baby lima beans
2 oz. salt pork (bacon could be used)
1/2 water
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. sugar
dash pepper
2 cups fresh or frozen whole kernel corn
1/3 cup light cream
1 T. flour
In saucepan, combine beans, pork, water, salt sugar and pepper.
Cover; simmer until beans are almost tender. Stir in corn.
Cover and simmer until vegetables are tender.
Remove pork.
Blend cream slowly into flour. Stir into vegetable mixture.
Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.
Serves 6

~*~

hehe...Carol @ There's Always Thyme to Cook reminded me about Sylvester the Cat often saying

"Sufferin' succotash". I totally forgot about him :)

From Hands on History:
Succotash was a staple Colonial American Fair.
Colonists quickly came to depend on corn as a vital staple. When times were hard it was not uncommon to eat some form of corn three times a day - fresh, dried or ground into cornmeal. Lacking most fruits and vegetables during the winter months resourceful women brought variety to meals by using cornmeal to make a wide selection of porridges, breads, puddings, pancakes and pies. Leftover cornmeal porridge was sliced and fried for breakfast. Later Colonists used an old Indian method to create pudding that featured molasses, butter and spices.

Facts about Lima Beans:
source
*They are named after the city of Lima, Peru.
*They are also often called butter beans or chad beans.
*The three main varieties are dwarf, small, and large.
*The lima bean is believed to have originated in either Peru or Guatemala.
*Cultivation of the lima bean in Peru is believed to have started as far back as 6000 BC.
*The lima bean was being cultivated in North America by 1301.
*Raw lima beans contain a cyanide compound and should not be eaten raw. Only those varieties with the lowest cyanide levels are legally allowed to be sold in the United States. Cooking deactivates the cyanide compound.
*One of the most popular North American dishes using lima beans is succotash, a dish containing primarily of corn and lima beans. Succotash is particularly popular in the South.
*Large, flat lima beans are used in Japan to make a sweet bean paste called "shiro-an."
*Lima beans have a high molybdenum content and may help people with a sensitivity to sulfites since sulfite sensitivity is often due to low levels molybdenum in the body.
also
Fiber Source
Lima beans, like other legumes, are full of dietary fiber. Just one cup will yield 53 percent of a person's daily fiber need.

Orange Whipped Sweet Potatoes

2011-11-21T07:04:00.004-05:00

I love sweet potatoes just about any way. Candied are always a highlight at the Thanksgiving table. I think a sweet potato simply baked in its jacket until the sugars ooze out of the cuts then topped with butter, brown sugar, salt and pepper is very close to perfect. But I really like this recipe for its fluffy orange flavor.

Orange Whipped Sweet Potatoes

adapted from Taste of Home 2002 Book

Printer Version

Ingredients

3 pounds sweet potatoes, scrubbed
1/3 to 2/3 cups orange juice
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt (may need more)
pepper (I like lots)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions
Bake scrubbed sweet potatoes in 400 degree oven for about 45 minutes until soft. Scoop out of skins when cool enough to handle.
In large mixing bowl, mash potatoes with all the ingredients until fluffy.
Sprinkle with snipped parsley

Linking to
Look What I Made @Creations by Kara
Tuesdays at the Table @All The Small Stuff

Weekend with the Boys

2011-11-20T15:58:00.004-05:00

They jumped in the leaves on Friday

They played football with Aunt Abbey in the afternoon

They snuggled Friday night

They helped blow and rake all those leaves Saturday morning

They hauled leaves to the curb

They dumped leaves and someone noticed a tree to climb

And climb he did

They ate the whole batch of Peanut Butter Spritz made from my friend, Lynn @Happier Than a Pig in Mud's recipe

They watched The Wizard of Oz Saturday evening

Noah and Pop-Pop poured casts of sharks

Noah painted and glazed his sharks

They watched church service on-line Sunday morning because Pop-Pop's bones were aching from all the raking on Saturday as well as standing two hours watching soccer as FBC Mt. Laurel Campus beat FBC Haddonfield Campus in the Champion Tournament :)

They tried on the spectacles worn by their Great-Pop-Pop when he was just their age about 85 years ago

And then they all went home.

The End!

Joining Mary @Little Red House for Mosaic Monday

WIP

2011-11-18T05:15:00.001-05:00

Just a peek

at what I'm working on for the kids

can you guess :)

This Mom-Mom has to get out of the kitchen and back to hooking real soon!

(When I'm finished I will give you the links where I got/purchased some really cute patterns)

Sweet Pumpkin Dip

2011-11-17T07:00:00.004-05:00

My little friend, Ella, and I made this recipe together and after tasting it we both though it was good but not outstanding. John tasted it while home for lunch and loved it! He likes that it has a mild pumpkin flavor. It sure is a nice way to enjoy some autumn fruits!

Sweet Pumpkin Dip

source: Libby's Pumpkin

Printable version

Preparation Time: 5 mins
Time: 1 hr refrigerating

I made half of this recipe and it made lots.

15 servings (5 cups total)
2 pkgs. (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened*
1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin
2 cups sifted powdered sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger

BEAT cream cheese and pumpkin in large mixer bowl until smooth. Add sugar, cinnamon and ginger; mix thoroughly. Cover; refrigerate for 1 hour. Serve with fresh fruit, bite-size cinnamon graham crackers, gingersnap cookies, toasted mini-bagels, toast slices, muffins and/or English muffins.

* NOTE: For a lower-fat version of this, substitute light cream cheese (Neufchâtel) for cream cheese.

Nutritional Information: Calories: 180 Calories from Fat: 100 Total Fat: 11 g Saturated Fat: 7 g Cholesterol: 35 mg Sodium: 90 mg Carbohydrates: 19 g Dietary Fiber: 1 g Sugars: 17 g Protein: 3 g

Joining
Wow Us Wednesday @ Savvy Southern Style
Get Your Craft On @Today's Creative Blog
Petra's Wednesday’s WOW @This Good Steward
Kristen @Frugal Antics of a Harried Homemaker

What do YOU think?

2011-11-16T05:52:00.000-05:00

John was thoughtful to bring me a pot of very pretty Paperwhites and I didn't have the heart to tell him I didn't like them, not because of their appearance but because of their strong fragrance.

So, while sitting and chatting with Jamie this past Sunday, I knew right away what she was referring to when she said,

"Mom, your living rooms stinks!"

I showed her the culprit and then quickly relocated the plant to a distant part of the house.

~*~

"Paperwhites" refers to a type of narcissus, usually of the Tazetta group, native to the Mediterranean. They are hardy only in warm winter climates, but are popular for indoor culture. The distinctive odor, which some find unpleasant, is due to a biochemical called indole.
Musky Fragrance
The scent of indole has been characterized as "musky," though some say its concentrated odor in paperwhite flowers smells like dirty socks or even cat urine. Indole is also present in the fragrance of jasmine, orange flowers and gardenias, plants renowned for their pleasant fragrances.

source

Bacardi Rum Cake

2011-11-15T05:48:00.019-05:00

I baked a cake for

National Bundt Day

Mary @The Food Librarian is celebrating her 3rd annual

I Like Big Bundts by baking a Bundt a day for 30 days!

I am baking along by sharing another one of my old recipes.

One I make only around the holidays as it is full of rum!

Very moist and quite tasty.

Bacardi Rum Cake

recipe from The Cake Mix Doctor by Anne Byrn

Print Version

1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1 package plain yellow cake mix
1 (3 3/4-oz.) package vanilla instant mix
1/2 cup Bacardi dark rum
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup water
4 large eggs

Glaze:

4 Tbs. butter (1/2 stick)
2 Tbs. water
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup Bacardi dark rum

Place rack in the center of oven and preheat to 325 degrees.
Lightly spray a 12-cup a Bundt pan and dust with flour.
Sprinkle the pecans or walnuts in the bottom of pan.

Place the cake mix, pudding mix, rum, oil, water and eggs in large mixing bowl. Blend with mixer on low for 1 minute. Scrape down sides of bowl; increase speed to medium and beat 2 minutes more. The batter should look thick and smooth. Pour into pan.

Bake until golden brown and springs back when lightly pressed; 58-60 minutes. Remove pan from oven and cool on rack 20 minutes. Invert onto serving plate. Poke holes in the top of cake with a wooden skewer.

Prepare the glaze. Place butter in small saucepan and melt over low heat. Add the water and sugar, stirring. Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat slightly and let glaze simmer until thickened, 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in rum. Spoon over warm cake allowing to seep into holes and drizzle down sides. Allow to cool completely before slicing.

Store cake, cover tightly at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate up to 1 week. Freeze up to 6 months. Thaw overnight on the counter before serving.

Linking to:
Tasty Tuesday Party @Naptime Creations
Tuesday's Treasures @My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia
Made by You Mondays @Skip to My Lou
Under the Table Dreaming's The Sunday Showcase Party
WOW us Wednesday @Savvy Southern Style
Home Decor and Organizing Link Party
Foodie Friday @Designs by GollumTransformation Thursday @The Shabby Creek Cottage
Frugalicious Friday @ Finding Fabulous
Think Pink Sundays @Flamingo Toes

Cocktail Meatballs

2011-11-11T05:49:00.006-05:00

Our every Christmas Eve since the kids were small

Cocktail Meatballs

An easy recipe that has been around for years.

The meatballs can be made ahead, (baked and cooled) placed in plastic freezer bags and frozen.

When ready to serve, heat sauce ingredients and add thawed meatballs; heat through.

They are nice served at baby or bridal showers and a must each Christmas Eve at our home.

My family likes the large sized and makes little sandwiches on

my dinner rolls (shaped regular ~ not animal shape)

Cocktail Meatballs

From my old Betty Crocker Cookbook

Printer Friendly Version

1 lb. ground beef

1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup milk
1 T. parsley
1 t. salt
1/2 t. Worcestershire sauce
1/8 t. pepper
1 egg
1/4 cup shortening
1 jar (10 oz) grape jelly
1 bottle chili sauce

Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, milk, parsley, salt, worcestershire sauce, pepper and egg. Shape into 1 inch balls ( make bigger meatballs, if desired)

Melt shortening in large skillet; brown meatballs. Remove meatballs from skillet; pour off fat. ( I bake 2-inch size in a 425 oven for 15 minutes)

Heat chili sauce and jelly in skillet; stirring constantly, until jelly is melted. Add meatballs and stir until thoroughly coated. Simmer uncovered 30 minutes.

Linking to:

Flamingo Toes Think Pink Sundays
Kara @Creations by Kara Look What I Made!
Whatever You Want Wednesday Party

Morning & Afternoon

2011-11-09T06:03:00.002-05:00

When the view from your kitchen window looks like this...

You have to do two things.

Praise God for the breathtaking work of his hands

then grab your camera and run outside.

still roses on the Knock-Out bush

Psalm 8

For the director of music. A psalm of David.

O LORD, our Lord,

how majestic is your name in all the earth!

You have set your glory

above the heavens.

From the lips of children and infants

you have ordained praise

because of your enemies,

to silence the foe and the avenger.

When I consider your heavens,

the work of your fingers,

the moon and the stars,

which you have set in place,

what is man that you are mindful of him,

the son of man that you care for him?

You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings

and crowned him with glory and honor.

You made him ruler over the works of your hands;

you put everything under his feet:

all flocks and herds,

and the beasts of the field,

the birds of the air,

and the fish of the sea,

all that swim the paths of the seas.

O LORD, our Lord,

how majestic is your name in all the earth!

{italicize mine}

Baked Cider Doughnuts

2011-11-08T06:01:00.014-05:00

A third attempt at baked doughnuts and we really like these!

Apple butter and apple cider along with Maple Syrup make a delicious doughnut.

I will be whipping these up frequently.

Baked Cider Doughnuts

slightly adapted from this recipe: Lemon Drop

Printer Friendly Version

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup apple butter
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1/3 cup apple cider
1/3 cup sour cream (I used fat-free)

Directions

Preheat oven to 400F
Spray doughnut pan with cooking spray

In medium bowl, whisk together first 5 ingredients.

In large bowl, whisk together remaining ingredients
Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients blending just until combined

Spoon about 2 1/2 Tbs. batter into pan cavities or use a piping bag, fitted with large round open tip to pipe into pan.

Bake 10 minutes. Cool several minutes.

Run a knife around edges of donuts and flip out onto a cooling rack

Brush melted butter onto each doughnut and roll in cinnamon sugar.

Cool pan and re-spray before proceeding with each batch.

Recipe yielded 14 doughnuts.

Previous Baked Doughnut post click photo:

Linking to:

Countdown to 2012 @Finding Joy in My Kitchen

Foodie Friday @Designs by Gollum
Whatever You Want Wednesday @Pretty Things for You
Look What I Made @Creations by Kara

Tuesdays at the Table @All the Small Stuff

Get Your Craft on Tuesday @ Today's Creative Blog

Wow Us Wednesday @ Savvy Southern Style

Home Decor and Organizing Link Party @Organize and Decorate Everything
Wednesday’s World of Work @ The Good Steward

Autumn Days

2011-11-06T16:01:00.001-05:00

And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight

Genesis 2:9

almost time to take the gold fish from our tiny pond to the lake and prepare for winter.

Linking to Mary@Little Red House for Mosaic Monday

Impish Strategy of a Baby

2011-11-03T18:26:00.002-04:00

Or what to do when caught in current favorite past-time

Give cute, cheesy smile when discovered

Make innocent expression with soft brown eyes

play peek-a-boo with Pop-Pop to melt hearts

Explain the situation in sweet baby talk

Give purpose to the misbehavior

Illustrate the fun of playing in water

do this dozens of times each day
Cambrie ~ age 22 months

Baked Donuts

2011-11-02T06:50:00.015-04:00

Each trip to the craft store found me looking at an interesting pan designed for making perfectly shaped baked doughnuts. Not wanting to purchase a pan that I might not use very often, I usually slid it back onto the shelf.

Finally, I could resist no longer, so with my 40% off coupon we headed home to try a couple of recipes.

~*~

This recipe makes 12 doughnuts. The pan has 6 cavities so after baking the first batch, I cooled, washed and resprayed before baking the second batch.

Baked Cake Doughnuts

recipe found on Wilton Doughnut Pan package

makes 12 regular-sized doughnuts

2 cups cake flour, sifted

3/4 cup granulated sugar

2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1 tsp salt

3/4 cup buttermilk

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 Tbsp butter, melted

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Spray the 6-cavity donut pan with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Sift together cake flour, sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk in buttermilk, eggs, and butter and beat until just combined. Fill each donut cup until about 2/3 full.

3. Bake 7-9 minutes, or until the top of the donuts spring back when touched. Cool in pan for about 4-5 minutes before removing from pan. Complete donuts with either a dusting of powdered sugar, glaze, or cinnamon-sugar topping. Best served fresh on the same day.

Cinnamon Sugar
2 Tbs. sugar
1 Tbs. ground cinnamon
2 Tbs. butter, melted

In a shallow bowl or plate, stir together the sugar and cinnamon. Dip the baked doughnut in melted butter (I used a pastry brush to apply the butter so I could get a lighter coverage) and roll in the mixture to coat.

Chocolate Glaze (John's Favorite)
1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 Tbs. melted butter
1 Tbs. corn syrup
1 tsp, hot water

In medium bowl, microwave chocolate chips, butter and corn syrup on 50% power for 1 minute, stirring frequently until completely melted. Stir in1 tsp. hot water, until the glaze is thick and smooth. Add another tsp. hot water if the glaze is too thick. Use immediately to glaze doughnuts.

Confectioners' Sugar Doughnuts
Put 2/3 cup of confectioners' Sugar in a resealable plastic bag. Add a doughnut, close the bag, and shake to coat. Repeat with remaining doughnuts.

My personal favorite way to eat doughnuts...
Slice plain, cinnamon or confectioners sugar doughnut in half. Lightly butter and toast until golden brown. Top with cinnamon sugar. I especially love the slightly crispy edges!

~*~

I also made a batch of Pumpkin Doughnuts

Warm from the oven they looked incredible.

We thought the taste was not as spectacular. Not sweet enough to our liking.

I had some left-over Maple Cream Cheese Frosting from another recipe I had made and thought it would compliment these doughnuts.

I thought it helped. John still didn't like them.

We refrigerated the extra doughnuts and were surprised that they actually tasted better the following day.

Next attempt... Baked Cider Doughnuts.

Hopefully I will be making these today for Bible Study this evening.

NOTES: Baked doughnuts are not like traditional doughnuts that you would get from your favorite bakery. These are not like the light, cruller kind made with yeast. I prefer a cake-like doughnut and these are similar to that type. We really liked the Wilton recipe and though I don't know the calories, I think they must be a little less unhealthy than fried doughnuts.

Linking to Designs by Gollum's Foodie Friday
Linking to Cindy @My Romantic Home's Show & Tell Friday

Linking to The DIY Home Sweet Home Project for THE MORE THE MERRIER

Linking to Susan @Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

Having Fun

2011-11-01T07:37:00.000-04:00

Cambrie Noelle

Keri Caleb Silas and Noah

Jamie and Cambrie

Raider wearing his mean face even at Jamies

Noah and Mom-Mom trying to be serious until Mom-Mom's mustache kept falling off

And, the sweetest of all!

Keri and Annika

Remember my birthday friend from my last post...

She is Anni's Grammy!

Three generations of friends.

I'd say that is pretty special.

♥

Birthday Lunch with Dear Friends

2011-10-31T06:21:00.002-04:00

Getting together with the dearest of friends is always
a blessing and a delight.

Celebrating birthdays with these precious ladies makes each

added year much easier to accept.

Part of the autumn themed menu included this Ina Garten recipe using butternut squash tossed with a warmed cider/mustard vinaigrette.

We also enjoyed an artisan bread dipped in olive oil that one friend brought back from a recent trip to Italy.

Served with French Onion Soup (recipe to follow soon), Grilled Chicken and Ina's Easy Parmesan Risotto then a fabulous Pecan Pie that our sweet Sandy made.

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Warm Cider Vinaigrette

Ina Garten recipe

Ingredients

1 (1 1/2-pound) butternut squash, peeled and 3/4-inch) diced
Good olive oil
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons dried cranberries
3/4 cup apple cider or apple juice
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons minced shallots
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
4 ounces baby arugula, washed and spun dry (or greens or your choice)
1/2 cup walnuts halves, toasted
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Place the butternut squash on a sheet pan. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, the maple syrup, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper and toss. Roast the squash for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once, until tender. Add the cranberries to the pan for the last 5 minutes.

While the squash is roasting, combine the apple cider, vinegar, and shallots in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until the cider is reduced to about 1/4 cup. Off the heat, whisk in the mustard, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.

Place the arugula in a large salad bowl and add the roasted squash mixture, the walnuts, and the grated Parmesan. Spoon just enough vinaigrette over the salad to moisten and toss well. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

I couldn't ask for a more loving and thoughtful group of friends, including the Birthday Girl (top left).

And always present in our conversations and hearts is our precious friend in TX!
She is never further than a warm thought away!

♥

An Unwelcoming Welcome

2011-10-30T00:39:00.000-04:00

Raider

Our Resident Sentry

who

Aggravates Aliens

Balks at Bats

Cringes at Costumes

Decries devils

Flinches at Frankensteins

Guards against Ghouls

Hater of Hobgoblins

Intolerable of Icabods

Jittered by Jack O'Lanterns

Keeps out Kooks

Leers at Lanterns

Meanie to Mummies

Nabber of Ninjas

Obstruct-er of Ogres

Protector from Pranksters

Quieter of Quacks

Repulsed by Rats

Securer from spooks

Terrorizer to Trolls

Unnerving toward Uglies

Vex-er to Vampires

Watcher of Werewolves

eXterminator of X-Men

Yipper at Yedi

Zapper of Zombies

Did you guess that Raider does NOT enjoy Halloween?

He would much rather be perched on a comfy chair undisturbed.

~*~

Also, remembering my dad who loved Halloween

mostly because it was his birthday.

Daddy with our old dog, Scotty, a ninety-pound sweetheart.

~*~

These two cuties had just had a Birthday Party.

Brenna was 7 yesterday and Shaela will be 5 next week.

~*~

Oh, yes... as did many of you, we had snow all day Saturday.

Here are a few photos as it covered the colorful autumn leaves still on the trees.

Most unusual to get snow in October in these parts.

Antique High Chair

2011-10-27T19:28:00.002-04:00

When we were expecting our twin daughters, John's aunt gave us a highchair that had been in the family for many years. We think the highchair is from the early 1900's and was used by John's dad who was born in 1918.

I was never able to find another highchair like this one with the beautiful carved Dutch children and tiger oak wood, nor was I able to learn anything more about it.

Originally it had a cane seat but was in need of repair when we received it.

We simply cut a piece of wood and padded and covered it to make it usable for our little ones.

John doesn't remember if the highchair was brought out for use when he and his brother were little and visiting Aunt Marie and Uncle Harmie but it did see its share of use when Jill and Jamie were babies.

Jill at 10 months old ~ September 1981

Jamie at 15 months old ~ February 1982

Baby Cambrie sitting in a chair that was once used by her

Great-Grandfather

~*~

Joining Cindy @My Romantic Home for Show & Tell Friday!

Angie's Knick of Time Tuesday

A Collection of Grandchildren

2011-10-26T10:44:00.000-04:00

Enjoying every minute with each other during Jill's surprise weekend visit

Jill with her Shaela, Ryan & Brenna ~ Jamie with her Silas, Keri, Noah, Caleb & Cambrie

Wondering when I blinked and this one got so much older.

Ella is not our grandchild but taking care of her for so long, we love just like she was!

Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

2011-10-24T18:33:00.007-04:00

A bowl of warm-your-tummy

on a rainy and blustery day.

Recently requested by Abbey, I made her a big bowlful because I love her and because it makes a mama happy to fill her offspring with comfort food.

Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

right from the box of San Giorgio Elbow Macaroni

1 package (1 lb. box) San Giorgio Elbows
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
salt (I use 1 tsp.) and ground black pepper to taste
5 cups of milk
4 cups (16 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions.

Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Blend in the flour, salt and pepper; gradually stir in the milk. Cook constantly until the sauce begins to thicken and mixture begins to boil.

Slowly add in the cheese, stir until all of the cheese has melted. In a 3 quart casserole dish, stir together the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce.

Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

recipe makes 8 to 10 servings.

If you're in the mood, sprinkle the top with crushed cracker crumbs or slices of American cheese (square cheese, as our parents called it).

Nothing fancy here.

Just creamy, uncomplicated goodness.

~Joining Kim @Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesday!~

Another Surprise

2011-10-23T11:09:00.002-04:00

The Canvas

The medium

The Art

The innocent looking Artist

Blowing kisses isn't going to get you off the hook, sweet Cambrie.

Well, maybe a little

♥

Linking to Mary's Mosaic Monday @ Little Red House

Surprise!

2011-10-21T10:53:00.000-04:00

Sitting at my computer last night, I heard children's voices on the porch and caught a glimpse of blond hair.

It was late but I thought it was Silas and that Jamie was stopping by.

I was delightfully shocked that Jill and the kids were here!

Brad and his dad drove to North Carolina, for a basketball coaches clinic hosted by North Carolina's coach and Duke's Coach K. Jill and the children drove in their car to our home.

Ryan, Brenna, Shaela and Raider

Of course, we had to brew a pot of tea to have with our oatmeal breakfast, because tea with cream and sugar cubes is a tradition at Mom-Mom's.

I loved the sweet note little Shaela left.

After the Rain

2011-10-20T18:25:00.000-04:00

Right after heavy rains, the front went through and the sky

became blue and filled with fluffy white clouds.

The sun shown down and caused glistening raindrops

glowing golden leaves

vivid orange mums

and multicolored maples

~No wonder autumn is a favorite season for so many~

Autumn is youthful, mirthful, frolicsome ~ the child of summer's joy ~ and
on every side there are suggestions of juvenility and mischief.

While spring is a careful artist who paints each flower

with delicate workmanship,

autumn flings whole pots of paint about in wild carelessness.

The crimson and scarlet colours reserved for roses and tulips are

splashed on the brambles till every bush is aflame, and the

old creeper-covered house blushes like a sunset.
Roger Wray

Harvesting and Storing Herbs

2011-10-19T23:00:00.000-04:00

It won't be long and the beautiful herbs growing in my garden will succumb to the end of the season.

Before a frost comes I gathered a bowlful so I could preserve them for flavoring meals long after I will be able to walk out the side door and snip them fresh.

In the past I dried herbs by hanging them in bunches.

This year, I thought I would try freezing them to see if they maintained more flavor.

Oregano

Basil washed dried and ready for freezing

Parsley

Chives

Spearmint

Bagged and ready for freezing

Sage dried and stored in a jar

A few basil cuttings to root and grow on the window sill because there just isn't anything like fresh basil!

Pumpkin Scones & Our Anniversary

2011-10-18T17:53:00.007-04:00

Today, John and I celebrated our 36th wedding anniversary.

It began with a breakfast of coffee and scones.

Delicious Pumpkin Scones with a spiced glaze.

It is a copy-cat recipe supposed to taste like Starbucks version.

I have never had a Starbucks scone so I can't really compare but I do know these are very tasty!

Pumpkin Scones

recipe source

Scones Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
7 Tablespoons sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
6 Tablespoons cold butter
1/2 cup canned pumpkin
3 Tablespoons half-and-half
1 large egg

Sugar Glaze Ingredients:

1 cup powdered sugar
1 Tablespoon powdered sugar
2 Tablespoons whole milk

Spiced Glaze Ingredients:

1 cup powdered sugar
3 Tablespoons powdered sugar
2 Tablespoons whole milk
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 pinch ginger
1 pinch ground cloves

Scones Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

2. Lightly grease a cookie sheet or line with parchment paper. (I used a silicone pad)

3. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and spices in a large mixing bowl.

4. With a fork, pastry knife, or food processor, cut butter into the dry ingredients until mixture is crumbly and no chunks of butter remain. Set aside.

5. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk pumpkin, half and half, and egg.

6. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Form the dough into a ball.

7. Pat out dough onto a lightly floured surface and form it into a 1-inch thick rectangle (about 9 inches long and 3 inches wide). (I formed mine into a circle and cut it into 8 wedges. They were a little small so next time I will cut them into 6 wedges)

8. Use a large knife to slice the dough into three equal portions. Cut diagonally to produce 6 triangular slices of dough.

9. Place on prepared baking sheet from step 2.

10. Bake for 14–16 minutes until scones turn light brown.

11. Place on wire rack to cool.

Sugar Glaze Directions:

1. Mix the powdered sugar and 2 Tablespoon milk together until smooth.

2. Brush glaze over the top of each cooled scone.

Spiced Glaze Directions:

1. As sugar glaze firms, combine the spiced icing ingredients.

2. Use whisk to drizzle over each scone and allow to dry before serving.

Makes 6 pumpkin scones.

~*~

John worked a half day and then we spent the afternoon together.

We did a few errands and then searched three different stores for birthday gifts for two of our granddaughter's upcoming birthdays. They would like matching child/doll outfits to fit American Girls dolls. We were unable to find anything we liked.

We enjoyed a mid-afternoon lunch at TGIFridays and then picked up ice-cream for Brownies we will have this evening while watching Guys and Dolls together!

~*~

The weather was a perfect autumn day full of colorful leaves, bright blue skies and white fluffy clouds.

An understated yet delightful anniversary!

♥

I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine

Song of Solomon 6:3

October 18, 1975
~*~

Joining Wow Us Wednesday @ Savvy Southern Style
Foodie Friday @Designs by Gollum

Autumn Leaf

2011-10-13T07:15:00.001-04:00

After emptying my mom's home, John and I have determined to downsize in our own home, keeping just what we use and enjoy. Bringing containers out of our storage brought to light these familiar pieces I began collecting many years ago.

This Autumn Leaf pattern was produced by the

Hall Company in Liverpool, Ohio.

Unwrapping each piece I noticed the date of 1991 on the newspaper protecting them.

They have been packed away a long time!

Though the colors never really matched my decor, they do look nice for this time of year.
Lots will go but these pieces will be kept and used each autumn season.

Hall China Co.’s Manufacturing Process

Founded in 1903 by Robert Hall, the company based in Liverpool, Ohio started with institutional products for hospitals. The son, Robert Taggart Hall, took over the business after his father’s death and immediately put all of his efforts into a new, single fire development process. The basis of the technique actually developed during the Ming Dynasty in the mid-16th century but Hall’s process used contemporary equipment. The advantage of single firing allowed a fusion of the basic material, the color and glaze all fired at a temperature of 2,400 degrees Fahrenheit. The result was a strong product that resisted crazing and was non porous.

Another added bonus (as we know it today) is the lead free quality of the china. Because lead could not be processed at the high temperatures, the element was excluded from all of the kitchenware. An early environmentally correct process developed unintentionally. source

One of the easier patterns to find today is the “Autumn Leaf” pattern, a distinctive look with a cream colored background and orange, rust and tan leaves and flowers. These pieces were designed to be collected by housewives throughout the country and include a full range of dishes, serving pieces and accessories. source

Hall China Markings

Fortunately for collectors, the Hall China Co. used a clear and legible method to mark their wares. Some variations are found but typically the word “HALL” will always appear on the underside of each piece. Additional markings may include “Superior Quality Kitchenware” and “Made in U.S.A.” source

Hall Teapots Stole the Show

From about 1910 until the early 1940s, teapots were the rage. The Hall China Co. responded by creating a large line of interesting shapes and colors. An Aladdin shaped teapot was a popular item and was available in cobalt blue, yellow, magenta and other rich colors. Some of the teapots and coffee pots were trimmed with gold or embellished with metallic highlights. For collectors of vintage Hall China pieces, the distinctive look of the teapots is easily identifiable and many pieces in good condition tend to be available in antique shops. source

Hall Co. Today
Hall China continues to operate in Liverpool and produces wares for food service and retail customers

Linking to Show & Tell Friday @ My Romantic Home

Pumpkin Bars

2011-10-12T07:26:00.001-04:00

This is an easy cake to make that is moist and just right with a thin layer of cream cheese frosting.

Combine all of the ingredients together in mixer bowl then pour into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan and bake.

When cool, frost and enjoy.

Refrigerated leftover cake.

Pumpkin Bars

recipe from a friend ~ Nov 1985

Ingredients:
3/4 cup oil
2 cups sugar
2 cups pumpkin
4 eggs
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 cups flour

Mix in large bowl.
Pour into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan

Bake 350 degrees. Bake 35-40 minutes or until pick inserted comes out clean

Icing:
3 oz. softened cream cheese
1 Tbs. orange juice or milk
1/4 cup butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1 3/4 cups powered sugar

A Bushel and a Peck

2011-10-11T07:33:00.000-04:00

I may be being extra sentimental lately but this warmed my heart when I saw it on pinterest.

My mom often would sing this to me when I was little :)

here was her version:

~*~

I didn't know that it came from

the Musical "Guys And Dolls"
(Frank Loesser)
Perry Como & Betty Hutton - 1950 Margaret Whiting & Jimmy Wakely - 1950 Doris Day - 1950 The Andrews Sisters - 1953 Johnny Desmond - 1953 Vivian Blaine - 1953

I love you a bushel and peck
A bushel and peck and a hug around the neck
A hug around the neck and a barrel and a heap
A barrel and a heap and I'm talking in my sleep
About you, about you
Cause I love you a bushel and a peck
you bet your pretty neck,
I do Doodle, oodle, oodle, doodle, oodle, oodle, doodle, oodle, oodle oo
I love you a bushel and peck
A bushel and peck
though you make my heart a wreck
Make my heart a wreck
and you make my life a mess
Make my life a mess,
yes A mess of happiness
About you, about you
Cause I love you
a bushel and a peck
You bet your pretty neck, I do
Doodle, oodle, oodle, doodle, oodle, oodle, doodle, oodle, oodle oo
I love you a bushel and peck
A bushel and peck
and it beats me all to heck
Beats me all to heck
and I'll never tend the farm
Never tend the farm
when I wanna keep my arm About you,
about you
Cause I love you a bushel and a peck
You bet your pretty neck, I do
Doodle, oodle, oodle, doodle, oodle, oodle, doodle, oodle, oodle oo

Necklace from India

2011-10-10T07:48:00.002-04:00

This beautiful amethyst pendant was hand crafted by Parul.

She is an artisan who was born and raised in Delhi.

When I received a letter from the folks at

NOVICA

and read their mission statement, I gladly accepted their offer to review their products and post about it.

Parul writes: "I design all my jewelries and experienced silversmiths help me craft them. I oversee each and every step. My designs are basically inspired by traditional Indian styles and setting, with a touch of modern elements.

This amethyst flower necklace is called, Nostalgia. Leaves and vines encircle a faceted 5-carat stone with cubic zirconium accent and is displayed on a silver rope chain.

What attracted me most to NOVICA (which is in association with National Geographic)

is that they provide a bridge between the talented artists across the globe and those that appreciate unique items and want an attachment to the hands that created them.

It took me a long time to finally decide on am item because there are so many beautiful items to choose from.

Their categories include Home Decor, Area Rugs, Chess Sets and Games, Furniture, Mirrors, Sculpture, Vases, Tapestries.

Jewelry, necklaces, rings, bracelets, Handbags, Travel Bags.

A vast selection and information about each creator.

I recommend visiting

NOVICA

to see some of the treasures offered there and the

culture and tradition of pieces made by skilled artists the world over.

Parul ~ creator of this lovely necklace

http://accessories.novica.com/womens/
Keyword: womens accessories

http://accessories.novica.com/mens/
Keyword: mens accessories

http://accessories.novica.com/mens/cufflinks/
Keyword: cufflinks

http://accessories.novica.com/mens/cufflinks/sterling-silver/
Keyword: mens sterling silver cufflinks

http://accessories.novica.com/mens/scarves/alpaca-wool/
Keyword: wool scarves

http://ww.novicalive.com/
Keyword: Novica Live

Autumn Love

2011-10-09T07:52:00.000-04:00

After a most beautiful autumn wedding for my cousins sweet daughter, she sent me home with a lovely flower arrangement bursting with colors of the seasons.

warm orange and peach tones

Creamy whites

golden ochre berries

hints of earthy browns

muted greens

all complimenting my mom's smiling pumpkin.

I did not take the three photos above but plucked them from fb (probably taken by Michele or Richie)
The gold glass pumpkin cake topper was made by my niece, Eva.
More about Eva's glass work here
~*~
Come Little Leaves

by George Cooper

"Come, little leaves" said the wind one day,

Come over the meadows with me, and play;

Put on your dresses of red and gold;

Summer is gone, and the days grow cold."

Soon as the leaves heard the wind's loud call,

Down they came fluttering, one and all;

Over the brown fields they danced and flew,

Singing the soft little songs they knew.

Dancing and whirling the little leaves went;

Winter had called them and they were content

Soon fast asleep in their earthly beds,

The snow laid a soft mantle over their heads.

Other Autumn posts you might like:

Looking Forward

2011-10-07T10:18:00.000-04:00

Sorting through my mom's belongings, we remembered with joy the things that were so special to her.

I made this little heart from a Family Circle Magazine project way back in 1979.

It was from our Erin on her 1st Valentine's Day.

My mom kept if for over thirty years.

We came across many items that she held dear...

a baby wash cloth from my niece, Toni

figurines from family and friends

trinkets made by grandchildren

a ceramic pumpkin that she kept up year round because my dad's birthday was October 31st

~*~

As sweet and precious all of these item were to her, they are all temporary.

Her decision to trust Jesus as her Savior means an eternity in heaven to enjoy all that He has prepared for her.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me

John 14:1-6

~*~

However, as it is written:

“What no eye has seen,

what no ear has heard,

and what no human mind has conceived”

the things God has prepared for those who love him

~*~

I couldn't help but think of this old song as we emptied her home.

This world is not my home I'm just passing through

my treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue

the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door