Breakfast Ideas

 

With the winter weather here and the holiday breaks many of us will be preparing more breakfast than we normally do. We all want to please our families but there may be times that we just want something different. For those times here are a few tasty recipes.

 

 

 

Denver Style Breakfast Burritos

 

8 eggs

1 tub (10 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Original Cooking Creme, divided

1/2 cupeach chopped green peppers and onions

1 cup chopped OSCAR MAYER CARVING BOARD Slow Cooked Ham

8 flour tortillas (6 inch), warmed

WHISK eggs and 1/2 cup cooking creme until well blended; set aside.
COOK and stir vegetables and ham in large skillet sprayed with cooking spray on medium heat 2 to 3 min. or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Add egg mixture; cook 3 min. or until set, stirring occasionally.
SPREAD tortillas with remaining cooking creme; top with egg mixture. Fold in opposite sides of each tortilla, then roll up, burrito-style

 

recipe source Kraft

 

 

Spread a banana with peanut butter, slice into bite size pieces, roll in rice krispie cereal (cocoa krispies would be great too!)

 

recipe source Mommy Im Hungry

shared at
Whatd You Do This Weekend
Made By You Monday
Making Monday
 

 

2 Red Hens and Tortle Giveaway ------ Giveaway Over Winner Selected

I have a few friends that are expecting little blessings to be born soon. To me life is made even more when you have a little one in the picture.  As I have been looking for the perfect new baby gifts I have fallen in love with products that are perfect for the baby and mama to. Take for example diaper bags and the room and organization that they give mama for all the baby needs. One great place to find diaperbags such as these is 2 Red Hens.

 

 

 

The Mama Hen behind 2 Red Hens Studio is Lori Holliday. Lori has a style that combines modern day renaissance gal with a knack of fashion and the love of domesticity. As a young girl Lori grew up with the love of a huge family on a large farm in rural Arizona. Her days were filled with playing school,  drawing pictures making sure to use all the colors and organizing the house. She learened at an early age how to organize, make needs list and make do with what you have. She incorporates these ideas using her design with 2 Red Hens to offer beauty to mom and baby alike. Designing products that are not only pretty but functional and make life a bit easier. Moms have so much to focus on if the bag she carries can help make life a bit easier how wonderful is that.

 

 

The bags are designed to look fashionable and the inside is even nicer

 

 

Zipper pocket, bottle holder & 2 elastic pockets

Removable stroller straps- Easy to hook on any stroller handle

Attached key fob

 Magnetic snap & button for extra security

Water-resistant backing - Easy to wipe clean

PLUS- Extra-long polka-dot changing pad (26” x 12.5”) included

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another awesome product that I shared in the prior post is the Tortle. After having a child with flat head syndrome I so appreciate the advantage that the Tortle offers new parents. To celebrate the fact that the Tortle is now available at Target.com we have been allowed the chance to offer our readers a giveaway where a lucky winner will receive a Tortle beanie and a diaper bag from 2 Red Hens.

 

Giveaway: 2 Red Hens diaper bag and Tortle

 

Giveaway ends : December 30, 2013

 

To enter giveaway visit 2 Red Hens and let us know something else that gains your attention

 

Extra Entries:

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  Tweet : @TortlesbyDrJane Helping Prevent Flat Head Syndrome & @2redhenstudio Diaper Bag #Giveaway from @shopannies http://t.co/APGb5Ugwg9 leave link in comment (may do 2 times daily)

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Good Luck remember to include your email in comment so that I can contact you if you are the lucky winner

Tortle Review

Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly) is a condition that occurs when infants spend long periods of time laying on the back of their heads or in a favored position and a flat spot develops. Infants can spend up to 16 hours laying on their backs when traveling in car seats, in swings, in bouncers and strollers. Some babies may be born with Plagiocephaly because of restricted in utero positioning, during the birth process or from extended stays in a neonatal intensive care unit. In 1994, the American Academy of Pediatrics began the “Back to Sleep” program to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) an unexpected result of this program is the epidemic rise in Flat head Syndrome.


As a young mother I tried the best that I could to do al that I could for my new baby. The one thing that I did not know about but now I am very aware of is flat head syndrome. The doctor diagnosed my baby with flat head syndrome on my oldest daughter. The back of her head then as it is now was flat as if there was no groove at all. Tortle is trying to make all aware of flat head syndrome and do something about it. Tortle Products, LLC, manufacturer of Tortle, the lightweight knit beanie that helps prevent and treat Flathead Syndrome

Tortle will now be available at Target.com .

Target.com will carry three Tortle designs; Blue Elephant, Pink Flowers and Solid White.  The Tortle beanies are available in medium and large sizes at a suggested retail price of $19.99.

 

The Tortle developed by Dr. Jane Scott, a Board Certified Pediatrician and Neonatologist  is recognized as an expert in the areas of Plagiocephaly and Torticollis Dr. Scott has counseled and educated hundreds of parents in her nearly 30 years of a practicing physician. She offers parents ways to prevent and treat the many problems associated with Flathead Syndrome an epidemic affecting the babies across the world.

 

The Tortle beanie is an FDA cleared patented class 1 medical device that promotes proper head and neck movement which is essential for appropriate development. Tortle works by gently deflecting a babys head from side to side when they are sitting or lying on the back of their head. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends regular head repositioning of babies younger than six months.

 

 

“Every baby is at risk of developing Flat Head Syndrome with one out of two babies being diagnosed with the Syndrome,” said Dr. Jane Scott.  “Through Target.com we will have an opportunity to further increase awareness of Flat Head Syndrome and the ease in which it can be prevented or treated.”

 

The incidence of Plagiocephaly and Torticollis (or Flathead syndrome) has increased to epidemic proportions since 1992 with more than a million babies being diagnosed with the condition each year in the U.S. alone.  This is due to their lack of movement and the amount of time infants spend on their back (the safest place for them to be).  If left untreated, there can be long-standing problems.  Treatment is frequently expensive and can be somewhat uncomfortable for a baby.  Plagiocephaly and Torticollis are almost 100% preventable with repositioning and Tortle makes this safe and easy.  It is recommended that all newborns wear a Tortle for the first 6 months of life to support healthy development.

 

Tortle was founded by Dr. Jane Scott in 2012 and is located in Denver Colorado. The stylish knit beanie prevents and treats Flat head Syndrome a condition most prevalent in babies 0 to 6 months of age. Every baby is at risk for developing Flat Head Syndrome with one out of two babies being diagnosed with the syndrome. Tortle is available in a variety of colors and designs and retails around $19.99  For more information visit www.tortle.com.

 

Snack Idea : Santas Hats (easy recipe)

1 bag of regular or caramel Bugles (typically near the ChexMix at the store)
Red candy melts (the kind you usually use for cake pops)
1 tablespoon shortening
Mini marshmallows (just a handful is enough)
White nonpareil sprinkles

Melt the candy melts and shortening together in 30 second intervals in your microwave until melted. As soon as everything is melted, start dipping the Bugles into the chocolate, letting the excess chocolate drip off. Let them set up until firm on parchment or wax paper. When the Bugles are set, remelt the red chocolate if necessary and dip just the bottom of the Bugles into the white sprinkles. Then flip the Bugle over and dip the top in red chocolate and firmly press a mini marshmallow on top. Let set again on the parchment or wax paper

Gum Drop Christmas

 

 

I have long associated gumdrops with Christmas. My mother had a gumdrop tree that was considered very special. Yes that gumdrop tree held gumdrops that you got when and if you were well behaved. So to celebrate that gumdrop tree I wanted to share a few ideas of how to use gumdrops during the holidays.

 

 

Gum Drop Cookies

 

2 cups firmly packed brown sugar
4 eggs, separated
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons water
1 cup assorted miniature, colored gumdrops, chopped
1 cup chopped pecans
2 cups sifted powdered sugar
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
2 teaspoons grated orange rind
1/4 cup orange juice

Combine brown sugar and egg yolks in a large mixing bowl; beat until well blended. Sift together flour, salt, and cinnamon in a small mixing bowl. Gradually add two-thirds of flour mixture to creamed mixture alternately with water, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Stir well after each addition. Add chopped gumdrops and pecans to remaining flour mixture; stir to coat well, and set aside. Beat egg whites (at room temperature) in a small mixing bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold into batter alternately with reserved gumdrop mixture. Spread mixture evenly in a greased 15- x 10- x 1-inch jellyroll pan. Bake at 350° for 20 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Set aside to cool in pan. Combine remaining ingredients in a small mixing bowl; beat until well blended. Spread evenly over cookies in pan. Allow glaze to set before cutting into 3- x 1-inch bars.

recipe source here

Find out how to make this gumdrop ornament here

Kid Trax Battery Operated RIde On Giveaway

My grandson who will turn 3 real soon would have a ball with this. He would love his nana forever (like he don't all ready) This would be a great gift for me as well watching him have a ball with this great new toy.

Giveaway: Kid Trax Battery Operated Ride On ($250 value)
Blog : MommyPoppins
URL to Giveaway  http://mommypoppins.com/family/ride-on-giveaway

Banana Split Cookies

Are you like me and wish a bit of summer was still here? The ice and snow after a while begins to look less pretty and more and more like a never ending cold spell. As we all know the truth is that the snow and ice will be replaced in a bit with some warm weather but for the next few months (what Princess refers to as "The Long Cold Winter") perhaps you could enjoy one of my favorite flavors of summer in a cookie

1 (15.25 oz) funfetti cake mix
1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, roughly chopped

Preheat oven to 350F.
In a bowl, mix together the cake mix, pudding mix, oil and eggs. Stir in the chocolate chips. Gently fold in the cherries.
Form the dough into balls just larger than a walnut and place at least 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until set.

Rocky Road Brownies

Rocky Road Brownies are one of my mamas favorites. While not a big fan of chocolate these brownies come together and taste delicious

1/2 cup (1/4 lb.) butter
3 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1 1/3 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup miniature marshmallows
1/2 cup chopped walnuts 

In a 2- to 3-quart pan over low heat, frequently stir butter and chocolate until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, vanilla, flour, and marshmallows until well blended.

Spread batter evenly in a buttered and floured 8-inch square baking pan. Sprinkle top evenly with walnuts. Bake in a 350° oven until deep brown, 30 to 35 minutes. Run a knife between pan rim and brownie. Let cool in pan on a rack, about 1 hour. Cut into 9 or 16 squares. Notes: Nutritional analysis is per small brownie. Store brownies airtight for up to 2 days.

recipe source: My Recipes

Big Mac Ornament and Sauce Recipe

One of my favorite ornaments thus far. Yes the big mac is for Christmas as well. Just don't let santa real near because he may just want a bite after his long night of traveling you know he has to be a bit hungry

Big Mac Sauce:
1/4 cup Miracle Whip

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons French dressing

1/2 tablespoon sweet relish

2 teaspoons dill pickle relish

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon onion, minced

1 teaspoon white vinegar

1 teaspoon ketchup                            

1 pinch salt       

 

Mix everything very well in a small container.  Microwave 25 seconds, and stir well again.  Cover, and refrigerate at least 1 hour before using (to allow all of the flavors to "meld").

 

recipe source: here

Moravian Tea Cakes

One thing that I like to do with my grandkids and when my own children were growing up was to introduce them to different taste around the world. These European based cookies are perfect for Christmas time. Enjoy


1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

 

Cream butter in a large mixing bowl; gradually add sugar, beating well. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and lemon extract.
Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg in a medium mixing bowl. Gradually add to creamed mixture, stirring well after each addition.
Roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a heavily floured surface; cut dough with assorted cookie cutters. Place cookies 2 inches apart on lightly greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350° for 8 minutes. Remove from cookie sheets, and cool on wire racks.

Bit of HIstory : Salute To The Purple Aces

I was yet a young girl when this happened in history but was told by an older friend how terrible this was. Oh my the whole team gone in a flash. Members of the team
Seniors:...
Kevin Kingston, John Ed Washington and Marion Anthony “Tony” Winburn
Juniors:
Stephen Miller, Bryan Taylor
Sophomores:
Keith Moon
Freshmen:
Warren Alston, Ray Comandella, Mike Duff, Kraig Heckendorn, Michael Joyner, Barney Lewis, Greg Smith and Mark Siegel
Coach and Administrators:
Head Coach - Robert “Bobby” Watson
UE Athletic Business Manager - Bob Hudson
UE Comptroller - Charles Shike
Sports Information Director - Gregory Knipping
Radio announcer - Marvin “Marv” Bates
Two weeks after the crash, the only member of the basketball team who was not on the DC-3 was killed after being hit by a drunk driver, leaving all of the members of the 1977 Purple Aces Basketball team dead

Do you remember making home made cards when you were a child? I sure do they were so fun to make. This year why no take some extra time and put a little love into the Christmas cards and make them for your friends and family. This would be a great project for the whole family to do together. You can find some wonderful Christmas Card resources here

Appetier Idea : Meatballs

Looking for a festive dish to serve? Guest coming over? Holiday party? We love meatballs while we normally make with grape jelly the cranberry flavor will make it very festive.

Meatballs

1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef   

1/2  lb ground pork 

1  medium onion, finely chopped (1/2 cup)    

1/4 cup Progresso® plain bread crumbs    

1/2  teaspoon ground mustard  

1/2  teaspoon seasoned salt  

1/8 teaspoon pepper     

1  egg                                                  

Sauce

1 cup barbecue sauce          

1/2 cup cranberry-orange sauce (from 9.2-oz jar)                

1/2  teaspoon ground mustard         

1/2   teaspoon ground ginger                    

1/2   teaspoon salt               

2  tablespoons chopped fresh parsley                        

             

 Heat oven to 375°F. Spray 15x10x1-inch pan with cooking spray. In large bowl, mix all meatball ingredients. Shape into 1-inch meatballs. Place in pan. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until no longer pink in center and juice is clear.   In 2- to 2 1/2-quart slow cooker, mix all sauce ingredients except parsley until well blended. Add meatballs.  Cover and cook on Low heat setting 2 to 3 hours or until thoroughly heated. Stir in parsley. Serve meatballs with cocktail forks or toothpicks. Meatballs will hold on Low heat setting up to 2 hours; stir occasionally.

recipe source here

shared at
The Taylor House

Christmas Guest

Have you ever thought about those that you meet along the way? If you take the time and listen to this you may change your mind on how you treat those that come along your path

Snowman Craft

This is a great craft that in my opinion is suitable for school age children and teens.

White Buttons - Use buttons with only 2 holes
Ribbon
Craft Foam
Magnets or Pin backing
Paint Brush
Acrylic Paint
Craft Glue
Scissors



Secure the two buttons together as if in a snowman shape. This may be easier done with a glue gun but tacky glue will work as well. Use the ribbon to create a scarf that covers where the buttons were glued together. Create a nose for the snowman out of orange construction paper so that it resembles a carrot nose. Create a hat for the snowman out of construction paper as well. This is where creativity comes in as all hats do not have to look alike. Using acrylic paint create a face for the snowman. Be creative and decorate the snowman the way you want it to look. Here in this house I am sure we would have a football snowman somehow as my son is a football fan

shared here and at
Making Home Base
Sweet Haute
The Inspiration Gallery
The Brambelberry Cottage

We Got Mention

The post where I shared my hubbys favorite fritter has earned mention at a fellow blog on the blog hop What WE Accomplished Wednesday. So very cool.

Christmas Decorations You Can Easily Make Yourself

These super cute Christmas tree ornaments are easy to make. Simply use green felt, a cookie cutter, pencil and scissors trace the cutter pattern onto felt and cut out. Then to add the colorful beads you can either glue, sew or attach however you would like

Tissue Paper Snowman face is so very fun. Use construction paper to create the snowmans feature and glue onto the paper. The top hat can be created using cardstock You can even have fun create a bonnet for the mrs. Snowman.

shared at
What We Accomplished Wednesday
thank goodness its monday
Sew it cook it craft it
Inspire Me Wednesday 

DS2 Prize Pack Giveaway

There is going to be one lucky winner of this DS2 gift package that includes

Nintendo 2DS system

Mario Party: Island Tour

Nintendo 2DS travel case

A Mario plushie (fun “travel companion” for kids)

A branded Nintendo water bottle

Mini backpack

Enter the giveaway at Mom and More
Giveaway ends 12/23/13

Spicy Sausage Dip

This would be a great dish to bring to that next get together holiday party. It would also be great to serve along with Christmas breakfast buffet. Yummy I found this recipe while doing a bit of blog hopping on the blog Cassie Craves. As always trying to bring you the best I find

Spicy Sausage Dipsource: Annie's Eats
1 pound spicy/zesty sausage
1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
2 8-ounce packages cream cheese
Hot sauce, to taste

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the crumbled sausage until browned. Drain off any excess fat.

2. Reduce the heat to medium and mix in the tomatoes, cream cheese, and hot sauce. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture is warmed through and the ingredients are well blended. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve warm.

Snowy Days

The schools are closed again tomorrow in our area. It seems the snow and ice have made it a winter wonderland for the children. My niece and nephew had a great time getting out and playing in the snow the other day. Simply take a look and see if you can find their smiles. Building memories :)

with all the fun they are having I truly would have only one wish and that is that we have a bit of the white stuff at Christmas

Keeping Kitchen Cleaned During Holidays

The holidays makes it very hard to keep the house organized and looking good. One thing that I hate is having guest over and my kitchen not being tidy. Here are some tips that may help you be prepared for guest with a clean kitchen:

• One great idea to help keep the top of fridge from getting cluttered is to create a display on top of your fridge that takes up the entire space or placing a decorative item up there that does the same. I love vintage items so on top mine I have a beautiful old pitcher and glass set that I have spaced out to cover the top
• Were you aware that the top of your microwave works better if not covered with mic... items? Well it does. If you insist on items being on the microwave or they end up there somehow then one thing that you can do is place a pedestal bowl on top of the microwave as sort of a catch all. this allows the microwave to still breathe as well
• Organizing pantry space will not allow them to look neat but also help you put groceries away as often make it easier to find that ingredient when cooking. Separating items by use or variety are two great ways to set up your pantry.
• One idea to keep counter space clear is to attach appliances such as coffee pot, can opener, etc... on the under neath side of the cabinet
• One tip that I use all the time is to clean as you go. This takes less time because you have it all done as you cook and also makes kitchen look much better
• One pet peeve of mine is when we save leftovers but for one reason or another do not label them. The best thing to do with left overs is to label them with date, and what it is. Remember these items have shelf life as well.

I hope that these tips help you not only during the holidays but help to make life a bit easier. It seems to me that if my home is tidy I am happy. Do you have any tips to share would love to hear them please share in comments

One of my dreaded jobs that seems like I do it more than my fair share is mopping the kitchen floor. I now can see why grandma would get so mad at us for spilling on the kitchen floor right after she got done mopping it.

How to Mop a Floor:
The best way to mop a floor is to start with the cleanest pallet possible so go ahead and sweep or vacuum that floor. Fill a bucket with hot water and add a small amount of cleaner to the water. Cleaners you can use include detergent, ammonia, or floor cleaner. The cleaner choice is up to you just read the directions on the container prior to using Now after the floor is clean and the water is ready it is time to start mopping the floor. First dip your mop into the bucket. Wring out the mop using your hands or if you have a mop that has a wringer you can use that as well. The best way to scrub (mop) is to go in a straight line if you are using a sponge mop or if you are using a rag mop then swirl the mop head in figure eight shapes. To remove hard stains you will have to apply pressure to the mop. Now that you have started mopping you will want to occasionally wring the pop out in the bucket One of the most important steps one that is not always possible for me is to let the floor dry before walking on it.

Tips to help while mopping the floor
1. Flip your mop over often to expose a clean side. If you use only one side you will have to rinse it more, wasting time.

2. Before you mop your floor be sure to vacuum or sweep it first. Remove soil when it is dry before it turns into sticky mud.
3. Use the correct amount of floor cleaner. If you try to be cheapo and use too little it will not work as quickly. if you use too much you will leave a residue on the floor making it get dirty quicker.
4. Make at least two passes over each area. On your first pass you will wet the floor with cleaner. Give the cleaner time to work and then remove the soil on your second pass.
5. Rinse your mop often to keep from spreading dirt around. If your floor is very soiled you may need to dump your mop water one or two times.

Well having shared this information with you I am off to mop my floor. Hope you all have a great day.

shared at

Christmas Jello Recipe

This recipe helped bring back awesome memories of my childhood Chrstmas' My mother loved recipes that included jello. This taste of home recipe would have been right there in the list of favorites I am sure

 

1 package (3 ounces) cherry gelatin
3 cups boiling water, divided
1 can (29 ounces) sliced pears, undrained
1 package (3 ounces) lemon gelatin
1 package (8 ounces) PHILADELPHIA® Cream Cheese, cubed and softened
1 package (3 ounces) lime gelatin
1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple

In a bowl, dissolve cherry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water. Drain pears, reserving 1 cup juice (discard remaining juice or save for another use). Stir pears and reserved juice into cherry gelatin. Pour into a 10-in. fluted tube pan or 3-qt. ring mold coated with cooking spray. Refrigerate until nearly set, about 1-1/4 hours. In a bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin in 1 cup boiling water; refrigerate until slightly thickened. Beat in the cream cheese until blended. Pour over the cherry layer.  In another bowl, dissolve lime gelatin in remaining boiling water. Drain pineapple well, reserving juice. Add enough water to juice to measure 3/4 cup. Stir pineapple and reserved juice into lime gelatin; spoon over lemon layer. Refrigerate until firm. Unmold onto a serving plate. Yield: 12 servings.

shared at

Tiny Tim Christmas Cookies

These are a favorite at our house. My oldest sons name is Tim so of course he loves the fact that he has a famous character with his name. However he is not very tiny any more. Yet these little bites are. They are bite sized and colorful making them a favorite of ours

1 cup sugar, divided
2 to 3 drops red food coloring
2 to 3 drops green food coloring
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup shortening
1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
2-1/3 cups all-purpose flour

FROSTING:
2 cups confectioners' sugar
3 tablespoons butter, softened
4-1/2 teaspoons heavy whipping cream
3/4 teaspoon almond extract
Red and green food coloring, optional

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar and red food coloring; set aside. In another small bowl, combine remaining sugar with green food coloring; set aside. In a large bowl, cream the butter, shortening and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in extract. Gradually add flour and mix well. Shape into 1/2-in. balls. Place 1 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Coat bottom of two glasses with cooking spray, then dip one in red sugar and the other in green sugar. Flatten cookies alternately with prepared glasses, redipping in sugar as needed. Bake at 375° for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool completely.

For frosting, in a small bowl, combine the confectioners' sugar, butter, cream and extract. If desired, tint half of the frosting red and the other half green. Frost the bottoms of half of the cookies; top with remaining cookies. Yield: 5 dozen.

source: Taste of Home

Cheesy Bacon Dip In Bread Bowl

So yummy can be served with soup or stew or shared at a party. Yummy!!! Enjoy a delicious tasty treat with a warm at home taste

1 Round Loaf (1 pound)
1 Package (8 ounces) Cream Cheese
1-1/2 cups Sour Cream
2 Cups shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 1/2 c. sour cream
1-1/2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
3/4 Pound Bacon, cooked and crumbled
Assorted Crackers

Cut the top fourth off the loaf of bread. Hollow out bottom, leaving a 1-inch shell. Cut the removed bread into cubes to use with dip.In a bowl, beat the cream cheese. Add the sour cream, cheddar cheese and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in bacon. Spoon into bread shell. Wrap in a piece of heavy-duty foil. Bake at 325 for 1 hour or until heated through. (or microwave while still in bowl and spoon into bread). Serve with crackers and bread.

If you are out there on the roads that are snow and ice covered my prayers are with you. Local county has considered the entire area to be dangerous and has ordered everyone not having to be out to not be on roads. I know that there are others that have no choice but be careful , take your time. I hate accidents this time of year so near the holidays

All The Snow Leads to Some Musical Thoughts

 

Today the weather hit, well actually it started yesterday afternoon but when we got up we could tell for sure that the weather was a bit different than the day before. In fact the whole world looked a bit different. The weather outside was frightful but it was a work day and I went to work. I wish I could have just sat at home and listened to this song

 

 

Getting stuck in the parking lot at work was not something that I much enjoyed but I must say all the snow does make for a beautiful sight. The Christmas lights just simply seem to glow in them and perhaps you to feel as if you are walking through a winter wonderland

 

 

 

 

But even with all the beauty we must all say a prayer for all those that are not so blessed to be in a warm place. Because baby its cold outside with all the snow on the ground

 

 

Taco Chip Dip

Every year there are a few places that we go that we need to take a dish to. We normally need an easy recipe due to our busy schedule. We also love to share something delicious with those that we love. This taco dip recipe adapted from allrecipes.com is always a pleaser.

(1) 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
(1) 16 ounce container nonfat sour cream
1 package taco seasoning mix
Iceberg lettuce - rinsed, dried, and shredded
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
3 chopped tomatoes
1 green bell pepper, chopped
(1) 2.25 ounce can black olives, drained (optional)

Tortilla Chips

So good! I love taco dip and this was no exception. Serve it at a party and it will be gone in no time.

Tonight as the weather is cold and not so nice I begin to think of all the simple things that I am thankful for. I am thankful for a family that is loving and one that loves to talk so the conversation is always changing. I am thankful that we have a roof over our house and heat to keep us warm. Even though we like to sleep with the house just a bit cool I am thankful for blankets and a soft bed to lay. The meal that we prepare tonight I am thankful for as well, something warm to put in my belly and to know that the meal was bought on the super thrift using coupons at different times. I am thankful for the knowledge that I have learned through many different sources older women in the family, bloggers that have shared many awesome tips.

My prayer tonight is for all those that are not as blessed as myself. I pray that with all my heart that all stay warm and comfortable.

shared here

Peppermint Oreo Krispie Treats

This festive recipe brings together some delicious treats. Peppermints, oreos and rice krispie treat. Oh so yummy. They will be the hit of the party

Peppermint Oreo Krispie Treats

 

 

 

Yield: 24 squares (aproximately 2" square)

 

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
20 Candy Cane Joe Joe's, or oreos, crushed/chopped (about 2 1/2 cups crushed)
6 cups mini marshmallows
4 Tablespoons Challenge butter
2 or 3 regular sized peppermint candy canes
2 oz. white chocolate
2 oz. semi-sweet chocolate
1/4 cup mini M&M's

Directions:

Directions-
In a large bowl, add cereal and crushed cookies. Mix to combine.
In another large, microwave safe bowl, add marshmallows and butter.
Microwave 2 1/2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are super fluffy, and melt together when stirred.
Stir together, until the marshmallows and butter are fully combined.
Pour melted marshmallows on top of the cereal and cookie mixture. Use a spatula that has been sprayed with cooking spray to quickly mix the marshmallow cream and cereal together. Stir until combined.
Quickly, pour/scoop the sticky mixture into a prepared 9"x13" pan. Spread the mixture around, and press down with spatula.
While the cereal treats cool, crush 2 or 3 candy canes in a small ziplock bag. Sprinkle crushed candy on top of krispie treats.
Melt the white chocolate by placing chocolate in a piping bag or heavy ziplock type bag, and microwave at 50% power until nearly melted. Kneed the bag a little in your hands (careful- it will be hot!) Snip off the end of bag and drizzle chocolate on krispie treats
Repeat as above with semi-sweet chocolate.
Top krispie treats with mini M&M's or festive sprinkles.
Allow chocolate to set before cutting into squares.

recipe source Glorious Treats

shared at Thursday Favorite Things

Christmas Crunch Bark

Christmas Crunch Bark

1 package (24 ounces) vanilla -flavored almond bark, coarsely chopped (in the baking aisle of the supermarket)
¾ cup whole or slivered almonds, coarsely chopped
¾ cup sweetened dried cranberries, coarsely chopped
2 cups crisp rice cereal
1 Cup Christmas M&Ms
10 oz dark/semi sweet chocolate, melted for drizzling

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, place into the freezer at least 1 hour.
Place almond bark into a double boiler bowl, heat and stir until melted, being sure NO water gets into the chocolate bark.
Heat a small frying pan and toast nuts at a medium low temperature until golden brown. Keep an eye on the nuts so they don’t burn. Just takes a few minutes, be sure to stir them.
Remove from heat and add cranberries to the pan. Stir until combined.
Stir cereal and half of the nut mixture into melted bark.
Pour bark mixture onto cold tray, spreading evenly. Immediately sprinkle with remaining nut mixture and M&Ms, press lightly onto surface of bark.
Drizzle with melted dark chocolate, let stand 7-10 minutes or until bark is set. You could also place in the fridge for a bit to set quicker.
Bring edges of parchment up over bark and break into various size pieces.

Yield: about 1 cookie tray full
Tips:
•You can use two packages (12 ounces each) premium white or chocolate-flavored confectionery coating candy wafers instead of the almond bark.
•When melting almond bark, make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry. Even one drop of water will cause almond bark to harden and clump.
-Instead of a dark chocolate drizzle, you could also melt white chocolate and color it red or green with food coloring, festive for Christmas!

Build A Snowman Without Getting Cold

Oh my it may be super cold where you are. There may be lots of snow or ice. Then again you may be in a warm tropical area (where I would love to be at times) and want to be a bit cooler. Whatever the case this snowman is super easy to build and the secret is something that many of us have our bathrooms.

This little snowman is made up of balls just like every other snowman but he is wearing lots of q-tips Check out this cute craft here

Fritter Day

Today is a day to celebrate that tasty treat the fritter. Fritters may be savory or sweet. Today though I am sharing my hub's favorite fritter the Apple Fritter

Apple Fritters Recipe:

 1 heaping cup all purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
dash salt
1 - 2 tsp. cinnamon (depending on how much you love cinnamon)
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 T. butter, melted
1 egg
1/3 cup milk + plus more if needed
1 - 1 1/2 cups chopped apple, your favorite kind for eating, peanut sized or smaller

oil for frying
milk and powdered sugar glaze for dipping or just powdered sugar for dusting
(About 1 cup pwd. sugar + 1 T. milk or more) 


Mix all dry ingredients together, slowly add the wet ingredients minus the apple. Carefully mix until well combined but not overly beat,gently fold in apple pieces. The batter should be the consistency of a light cake mix. Once the oil is read (when a test drop of dough floats to the top of the oil) then using a cookie scooper or soup spoon, place a few balls of dough into the oil. Be careful not to overcrowd and watch carefully for the underside to turn golden brown, then gently flip over and continue frying until done. I cooked mine about 45 seconds per side, but they were the size of golf balls - adjust cooking times based on size of fritters and temperature of your oil. It is always a good idea to test one to ensure it comes out like you are expecting.

shared at
What We Accomplished Wednesday 
Whats' It Wednesday

National Roof Over Your Head Day

National Roof Over Your Head Day is celebrated every December 3. Today is also give back day in many areas. What is more special during the holidays than the day to celebrate what we have and to give to those that are less fortunate.  While many of us will be sitting in our comfy home when reading this post there are many that are less fortunate. Think about getting out there and doing for others and if not able to do that then how about those local charities that could use a boost financially or from volunteer work. NO better time to get started than now.              
Happy National Roof Over Your Head Day!

Snowmen Treat

SnowMan Trail Mix

•1 large container of black raisins (16 ounces)
•1 jar of peanuts (16 ounces)
•1 bag of natural almonds (16 ounces)
•1 bag of roasted soy nuts (16 ounces)
•1 bag of natural sunflower seeds (16 ounces)
•1 bag mini marshmallows (8 ounces)
•1 bag of mini chocolate chips (dark chocolate) or dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) bar broken into pieces (4-6 ounces)
Yield: 11+ cups

•Mix all of ingredients in a very large bowl.
•Measure into individual bags, cups or other containers


I located this recipe at http://parentingtweens.suite101.com/article.cfm/healthy_trail_mix_recipies_for_tweens#ixzz0dv6giPoU