tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67948270765112921762024-03-05T11:40:08.082-08:00Shayla SurprisesFabulous recipes mixed with some random thoughts and a craft project or two. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.comBlogger149125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-25486230979295239202015-09-16T09:10:00.001-07:002015-09-16T09:10:18.379-07:00Summer Cat CampWhere have I been.. Some tropical vacation, kidnapped by Tibetan Monks, off on a non speaking retreat.. NO. I just have not been writing. There are loads of things going on. New recipes that have been conquered, and even summer camp for cats at my house.<br />
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Binx and Ziggy came to our house on May 30th. My friend was changing jobs and moving from Indiana to the Boston area. They came to our house for a low stress summer vacation. These boys had a lot of fun. They even lost a pound or two. They had never had stairs before. Who knew that camp would have a work out program<br />
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They always liked sleeping next to each other <br />
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These two love bugs needed a place to hang out for the summer while their Mom moved and traveled for work. My Husband and I decided this would be a good experiment. We have always talked about becoming cat foster people. Summer camp went wonderful. Our three cats were a bit challenged at first, but they all became fast friends. Black Cherry was no longer dominated by girls. He had to get use to 2 other Males in the house. But the boys hung out together.<br />
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Watching for bunnies and birds</div>
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Black Cherry and Ziggy.</div>
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Buddies and Lovers</div>
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Apple Jax and Smokey accepted the boys. Binx would love to tease the girls and chase them around. Once in a while little Smokey would hiss at big Binx. He was never mean to her. Girls can be so moody..</div>
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One morning I snagged this picture. Smokey and Binx looking out the door</div>
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They always wanted to go outside</div>
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This was another thing that made Binx and Ziggy perfect, just like our cats, they like being outisde. They were also harness and leash pets. The boys hung out often on the patio. I have several cute cat photos. Probably more than you would want to see.</div>
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Apple Jax and Binx coexitsting</div>
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My Friend's cats were just lovable. They made everything so easy. When you came home everyday, they would be sitting by the back door waiting for you to come in. If people tell you that cats have no emotion and do not care, they are WRONG. We could have keep these cats forever, but their Mom also missed them very much. With her new job going good, the new house was unpacked, it was time for another new adventure in the Boston area. So on September 6th, we said our final good byes. </div>
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Their Mom told us how they howled and cried for hours in the car. My cats looked around for the boys. Wondering where they went. Black Cherry was so mopey and clingy. He really missed his friends. </div>
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My Husband and I did shed some tears, but we also realized that there are many cats out there that need temporary homes. Not every experience is perfect, but there has to be more to life. We are really happy that we meet these wonderful Fur Boys. Life is always full of new experiences, even at summer camp.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-14292404917453840662015-05-31T18:47:00.000-07:002015-05-31T18:47:36.632-07:00Homemade Snickers Bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hello holy homemade Snickers bars. These little puppies are amazing. If you want to wow your spouse, or just impress your friends, make these easy bars. They have a few steps but they go together quickly. </div>
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I am not a huge Snickers fan, but these are just delicious. These are not calories friendly, you will not eat huge pieces, but you could.. I really could eat the whole pan.</div>
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Homemade Snickers Bars<br />
Adapted From Imperial Sugar<br />
Ingredients<br />
1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips<br />
3 Tablespoons Creamy Peanut Butter<br />
7 Ounces Marshmallow Fluff<br />
1/4 cup Creamy Peanut Butter<br />
1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar<br />
1 cup Dry Roasted Peanuts<br />
11 Ounces Caramels<br />
1/4 Cup heavy Cream<br />
1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips<br />
3 Tablespoons Creamy Peanut Butter<br />
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Directions<br />
Line a 11 x 7 baking Pan with Parchment paper.<br />
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Place 1 cup of chocolate Chips and 3 tablepoons of peanut butter in a heat proof bowl. Microwave for 60 seconds and stir until smooth. Microwave for Few more seconds if necessary.<br />
Pour Mixture into prepared Pan and spread evenly. Place pan into the freezer For 2-3 minutes until hardened.<br />
Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl with a paddle attachment, place marhmallow cream, 1/4 cup peanut butter and powdered suger and Mix until a soft ball forms. Remove dough and press on top of the chocolate layer.<br />
Sprinkle peanuts on top. Gently press them in.<br />
In a small saucepan, add the caramels and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted. Immediately pour over peanuts. Spreading evenly.<br />
Refrigerate for 5 minutes until set.<br />
In a Heatproof bowl, melt remaining chocolate chips and peanut butter. Pour over caramel layer. Spread out evenly.<br />
Place pan in the fridge for 10 minutes until chocolate is set.<br />
Cut with a sharp Knife.<br />
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First chocolate and peanut butter layer</div>
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Marshmallow Creme</div>
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Fondant Creme Filling</div>
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Spread Into the Pan<br />
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Banana... Something Healthy</div>
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Peanuts</div>
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Caramel bits, so much</div>
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caramel</div>
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caramel sauce over peanuts<br />
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Just delicious... eat up buttercup<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-54241191479461026562015-05-21T11:10:00.001-07:002015-05-21T11:10:29.660-07:00Banana Crumb CakeHoly Crap, I decided to go back to writing and here I am again today. I am glad I got my head out of my butt and started moving forward.<br />
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<b>TODAY is the THREE Year BLOG anniversary</b>. I really think this is what completely motivated me to start writing again. I was trying to decide what I was going to do with this site. There is so much I have to say. AND all of you are such a wonderful audience.<br />
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I had no 3 candles. Unbelievable..</div>
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I made cupcakes for a customer on Tuesday, and did not photograph with candles</div>
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I could have done something there.. oh well.. </div>
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Last month I came across this recipe. I had bought a crate of single bananas and this recipe was perfect. We had overloaded on different smoothies, but these bananas were ready for baking. </div>
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This recipe is a dairy free recipe. If you do not have Soy or Almond Milk, use regular milk.</div>
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The recipe called for a 10" springform pan or a 9x13 pan, I used a 10" square pan with foil. Whatever floats your boat. With the 9x13 pan, you can cut more pieces.</div>
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There is also Coconut Oil in the recipe. Oh had I forgotten how much I love coconut oil. </div>
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Please do not skip the crumb topping. It really sets the cake apart from being basic. I think it made it delicious. If you do not like pecans, please omit. I LOVE nuts, so a few extra for me to munch on.</div>
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<b>Banana Crumb Cake</b></div>
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adapted from <a href="http://bakerita.com/">bakerita.com</a></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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For the CAKE</div>
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2 cups all purpose flour</div>
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3 teaspoons baking powder</div>
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1 teaspoon salt</div>
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3 ripe bananas</div>
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1/2 cup coconut oil, room temperature</div>
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1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar</div>
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1/2 cup brown sugar</div>
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2 eggs </div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div>
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1 cup soy or almond milk</div>
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For the CRUMB Topping</div>
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1 3/4 cups all purpose flour</div>
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1/3 cup granulated sugar</div>
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1/3 cup brown sugar</div>
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1/2 cup coconut oil, melted</div>
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1 cup chopped pecans (Optional)</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. If using a spring form pan, spray your pan with cooking oil and set aside. If you are using a square pan or 9x13 pan, Layer with tin foil, edges overhang, and spray with cooking oil.</div>
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In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mash the bananas until smooth. Add coconut oil and beat until combined with no lumps, and then add the sugars, eggs, milk and vanilla extract and continue mixing.</div>
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Add in the flour, baking powder and salt and mix together. </div>
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Pour banana cake mixture into your prepared pan. </div>
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In the same bowl, prepare the crumb mixture. Combine in all ingredients and slightly incorporate for course crumbs. DO NOT over mix or you will just have a glob. </div>
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Top the cake with the crumb mixture. Place in oven and bake. Bake until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. About 50 minutes. Transfer the spring form pan to a wire rack and let cool for about 15 minutes. And then remove sides. Or let the cake cool for at least an hour</div>
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2 ripe bananas and 1 very dark banana</div>
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I am bake cooking and baking with Coconut oil. Yummy</div>
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Mixing all the batter. </div>
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It is a full pan. That is why a 9 x 13 pan will also work</div>
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The crumb topping. Rough Chucks, do not over mix</div>
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Ready for the oven</div>
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Out of the oven, cooling and we are patiently waiting to taste</div>
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Oh my.... this is an all year round cake.</div>
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Perfect for party, or just with lunch.</div>
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Fabulous flavors the melded together. </div>
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ENJOY.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-44822870110631776842015-05-20T13:33:00.000-07:002015-05-20T13:35:22.378-07:00Breaks in the weatherWhere have I been. Really almost no where. I went to Florida last weekend to see my nephew graduate from High School.. He was in National Honor Society and all advance placement classes since he was in first or second grade. He is very smart. Good kid also.<br />
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He will be attending the University of Florida next fall. We are very proud of him.. My twin nieces graduate this weekend. They are also going away to college. I will post their graduation picture next week. </div>
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I have had this stupid hip issue for the past year that has somewhat sidelined me. I am still able to go to work and workout and bake cakes and treats, but the pain has been horrible the last five months. Going to the Chiropractor three times a week sucks up an enormous amounts of time and money. The woes of getting older. After 38 visits, I am starting to get better. I still have a bit of a limp and different amounts of pain.</div>
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So, what have I been doing.. There are still Sweets by Shayla jobs every weekend. Some big, some small. I have been catering some here and there. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqrKO_fDxJmbN9-NNoP9-c0e7iwqCXinTHBklwPMEtevHI5hBlK8-Sbd6akZWIT0t8OWPttIF9gOK0IyjPnlSHbEAC7-vwaLuozVJN8D-2EXfQHVH2K2GSHL05fLR_T8XpUjKc2EwigSA/s1600/IMAG1496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqrKO_fDxJmbN9-NNoP9-c0e7iwqCXinTHBklwPMEtevHI5hBlK8-Sbd6akZWIT0t8OWPttIF9gOK0IyjPnlSHbEAC7-vwaLuozVJN8D-2EXfQHVH2K2GSHL05fLR_T8XpUjKc2EwigSA/s320/IMAG1496.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These Lillies of the Valley came from my Mom's house over 10 years ago. </div>
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They still smell amazing and always make me smile.</div>
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The Chicagoland weather has been all over the block. In fact today, it is 46 degrees and sleeting. Oh my goodness. We have had our air conditioner on last week. It had been in the high 80's and very humid. I will not turn my heat back on. Throw on a sweater and a pair of socks. </div>
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On a warm Friday a few weeks back, my husband and I went fishing. These were 2 turtles that we spotted. It was so cool to get this close. We just idled up to them and I keep taking photos. Then they jumped into the water. It was very calming out be out in the fishing boat. My husband loves to fish, among all hisother hobbies. I read a book and got some sun. That made me very happy.</div>
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These are all three of my kitties co-existing for a few minutes. I do not know what they were looking at, I just thought it was cool. I always wonder what goes on during the day when we are at work, probably just a lot of sleeping... </div>
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OK... I think I am back.. I thought there was nothing left for me to talk about. I have several recipes to share with you. Sorry for the hiatus, I wish I could say there was some sort of enlightenment. Really, just coming to terms with my age and deciding there are loads of things that need to be on the internet. </div>
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Maybe you will see me tomorrow.. I forgot that I like to write. ROCK on kids</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-53695407889989546202015-03-24T13:13:00.002-07:002015-03-24T13:13:44.434-07:00Florida Strawberry Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Where have I been.. It has been a crazy couple of weeks.. This blog should have been posted a few days ago. The days just seem to evaporate... On March 6th, I celebrated my 50th birthday. AUGH.. I was really dragging my feet about turning 50. My hip has been bothering me, I need readers all the time and winter just seems to be dragging on forever. WHINE..</div>
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So, my wonderful Husband and my fabulous sisters threw me a birthday party the week before my actual birthday. It was at a local bar. My Husband invited everyone, ordered the cake and paid the bill. He also flew my Florida sister in. She was glad she was here, but did not like the super cold weather. My sisters went WAY over the top. They decorated the place, made fabulous appetizers and really made me special. They are all a very special part of my whole life. Sometime I will post my birthday pictures.</div>
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My birthday party started February 27th and finally ended on March 7th. Wow 10 days of lots of fun. If you are approaching a new decade, hit it up with a bang.</div>
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So off to Florida we went to celebrate my birthday. I was really missing my Mom. She was very glad to see us.. The first day we were there, we went to Bonefish Grill for are usual, Bang Bang Shrimp and Martini's. Well Martinis for me and beer for everyone else..</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihI1AV7XQlN_qTBft4gJoV_LEuzPpD-6r5pD5XwTK6tf5WbdsPvtKVI4s6IzdkPNbkPSENxsvg4L2TXHo10TaXCv-RYmlaZsWfUyBXiAxLXICcOMdTBI2jEVvr4oSiW-Vxk6omdCEj-tY/s1600/IMAG1374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihI1AV7XQlN_qTBft4gJoV_LEuzPpD-6r5pD5XwTK6tf5WbdsPvtKVI4s6IzdkPNbkPSENxsvg4L2TXHo10TaXCv-RYmlaZsWfUyBXiAxLXICcOMdTBI2jEVvr4oSiW-Vxk6omdCEj-tY/s1600/IMAG1374.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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It is wrong to start a vacation with Bang bang shrimp</div>
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and a delicious martini.. well 2 martinis</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljCLJ9SRJftvlNDc5C200VtXLodAl5h_Y6_9tVCSzpewGJS9nmdmpkbv07XQqxZpTPj48QpHdJxmCkEGk6Ar9cLGj2OcIEuuDoiv0OD2gYtNd5SECfrxqGsfpfMEvG1Tpc10aVyUoHGY/s1600/IMAG1427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljCLJ9SRJftvlNDc5C200VtXLodAl5h_Y6_9tVCSzpewGJS9nmdmpkbv07XQqxZpTPj48QpHdJxmCkEGk6Ar9cLGj2OcIEuuDoiv0OD2gYtNd5SECfrxqGsfpfMEvG1Tpc10aVyUoHGY/s1600/IMAG1427.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MOM<br />Florida agrees with my Mom</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhydbwwqVRA47apAKbuDu6Wqkpq6c7ZM4yLKPSwDsm5Rde5FMTRfrcABIDeDc_Oqd2LpgQq9_IQ8q75lrJX7Ht57AqZ6lsluial9zV_jehw7am25378UV6fjMdlqKI8nUH_5hVGOHIdCyg/s1600/IMAG1428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhydbwwqVRA47apAKbuDu6Wqkpq6c7ZM4yLKPSwDsm5Rde5FMTRfrcABIDeDc_Oqd2LpgQq9_IQ8q75lrJX7Ht57AqZ6lsluial9zV_jehw7am25378UV6fjMdlqKI8nUH_5hVGOHIdCyg/s1600/IMAG1428.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">My Husband and I after watching a beautiful sunset<br /></td></tr>
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Super long walk all the way to DOCS</div>
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Even the birds have fun on the beach</div>
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Going to celebrate my birthday some MORE with my family</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Kete-TPl4xig8O07XpP-9zS8-FDw39LjPJX9r3D5D2OL0qaQrAW93rVrluyIZ5KT-wph7BVwzOAC9gfdHyUO2ti7oM2InzOgW-s77gkjIG6ZYBy8fWC6JuV6nyQbGFCtC6gX9mwmVs4/s1600/IMAG1403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Kete-TPl4xig8O07XpP-9zS8-FDw39LjPJX9r3D5D2OL0qaQrAW93rVrluyIZ5KT-wph7BVwzOAC9gfdHyUO2ti7oM2InzOgW-s77gkjIG6ZYBy8fWC6JuV6nyQbGFCtC6gX9mwmVs4/s1600/IMAG1403.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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My Florida sister and I after dinner</div>
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My handsome and TALL nephews</div>
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Another cocktail and another perfect beach day</div>
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My Mom made me a wonderful Florida dessert. Strawberries were in season their and just delicious in this birthday dessert. This recipe came out of either Cooks Illustrated or America's Test Kitchen. Make Ahead Dinners.. There recipes are always tested and come out perfectly. Time and time again. </div>
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My Mom made this in a 9 x 13 pan and doubled the recipe. I am going to give you the recipe for a 9" pie pan. This dessert does go a long ways. This PIE could be made the day before. It could be covered with the topping even several hours before your event. The original recipe calls for a homemade pie dough. Mom likes to use a graham cracker crust. It does not break down so fast and is just perfect for Florida or anywhere you call home. It is up to you. Today I am posting a graham cracker crust recipe.</div>
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<b>Icebox Strawberry Pie</b></div>
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original recipe for America's Test Kitchen</div>
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Adapted by my Mom</div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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<b>Crust</b></div>
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1 cellophane package of graham crackers, crushed</div>
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4 ounces (1/2 stick) butter, melted</div>
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<b>Filling and Topping</b></div>
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2 pounds strawberries (7 cups)</div>
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2 tablespoons lemon juice</div>
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2 tablespoons water</div>
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1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin</div>
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1 cup granulated sugar</div>
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1 pinch of salt</div>
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1 pound strawberries (3 cups), hulled and sliced thin</div>
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4 ounces Cream cheese, softened</div>
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3 tablespoons sugar</div>
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract</div>
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1 cup heavy cream</div>
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<b>For the pie crust</b></div>
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Preheat your oven at 350 degrees. </div>
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Crush the graham crackers. Add melted butter and mix completely. Pour into a 9 inch pie pan. Using your fingers and hands, press the graham cracker mixture into your pie plate until smooth. Bake in oven for 12 minutes. Remove from oven and let complete cool.</div>
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<b>For the filling and topping</b></div>
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Cook the 7 cups of strawberries in a large saucepan over medium low heat until they begin to release their juices. About 3 minutes. Increase heat to medium high and cook, stirring frequently, until mixture is thick and jamlike. It should measure 2 cups, this takes about 25 minutes</div>
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Combine lemon juice and water in a small bowl. Sprinkle gelatin over lemon juice mixture and let sit for 5 minutes until the gelatin softens. Stir 1 cup of sugar, salt, gelatin mixture into cooked strawberry mixture and return to simmer, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and let cool for 30 minutes.</div>
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Fold fresh strawberries into filling and spread evenly into cooled pie crust. Cover pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate until set. at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.</div>
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Using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, mix cream cheese, vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons of sugar on medium speed until smooth. About 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add cream and whip until stiff peaks form, about 2 minutes. Spread over the top of your set up strawberry pie. Decorate with additional strawberries if you want. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlk7DTpV7eAA6Ozgo3nx-bDeIEbqBZgI_xT0mZxxWItYjNrk0j-qP6A5Nvvt3rEePIXZxnTHES5uhYT9K7z73ubYCVapz-76ptKoBjHgC_PeUuanUYh5TmoEcJAjvpJRECqOcFbJM6C0/s1600/IMG_5193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlk7DTpV7eAA6Ozgo3nx-bDeIEbqBZgI_xT0mZxxWItYjNrk0j-qP6A5Nvvt3rEePIXZxnTHES5uhYT9K7z73ubYCVapz-76ptKoBjHgC_PeUuanUYh5TmoEcJAjvpJRECqOcFbJM6C0/s1600/IMG_5193.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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My Mother did not want ANY one in Florida </div>
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to not know it was my Birthday. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXUJK6_7uOxmtH9_KJYxG10UPQPeY8dRc1VHaG4QHYhy6jEDpgtn-37UZYLkMbMehBJNP9Lp1KnXRc_qLv3eWJnmPclPdQQP7TYTdAJSxoT_-d346Zx5RK2qXaSVN2uwdauDJ82KV6og/s1600/IMG_5189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXUJK6_7uOxmtH9_KJYxG10UPQPeY8dRc1VHaG4QHYhy6jEDpgtn-37UZYLkMbMehBJNP9Lp1KnXRc_qLv3eWJnmPclPdQQP7TYTdAJSxoT_-d346Zx5RK2qXaSVN2uwdauDJ82KV6og/s1600/IMG_5189.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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The original pie was not photograph before cutting...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPbi-JDF1XNz4xw4iu0aj_cQxdwLZC0l5IBAjongYXVKw_sinEIkOGU68m_KzZV0Qc9YZykAcYHXu9SGnyUYg89Ita2rbm9R-uCrY3ws8nU5Hy0IsKuZLMnEWJQDrAn7ThD5YCc5XZfM/s1600/IMG_5190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPbi-JDF1XNz4xw4iu0aj_cQxdwLZC0l5IBAjongYXVKw_sinEIkOGU68m_KzZV0Qc9YZykAcYHXu9SGnyUYg89Ita2rbm9R-uCrY3ws8nU5Hy0IsKuZLMnEWJQDrAn7ThD5YCc5XZfM/s1600/IMG_5190.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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It was beautifully decorated and served perfectly</div>
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Additional strawberries fanned over the top.</div>
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AND Candles if you want</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnEHSuRq83jfsS3EzQi8ZGuzlNwo5SMN1avvd4e2PLhgLYTZ3h-C_mcpgMxklMr7eZm7rYeXpar3eT35Rjo7LNjbCRh027QBe3uiO8ucPvPhu5xYzNaG5ZriobsKZuyA-rc3FlSUQJPg/s1600/IMG_5196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnEHSuRq83jfsS3EzQi8ZGuzlNwo5SMN1avvd4e2PLhgLYTZ3h-C_mcpgMxklMr7eZm7rYeXpar3eT35Rjo7LNjbCRh027QBe3uiO8ucPvPhu5xYzNaG5ZriobsKZuyA-rc3FlSUQJPg/s1600/IMG_5196.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Is that just a perfect dessert.</div>
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Cut beautiful and easy to serve</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiaxTOa6lwGjhiB7PjlVvaUIXSlZGpDvB-3xv8mB7u_nFGaLHcLfMp4KdRUCAdB0MQxR1yVYfUX0ymfeydLSw1j1cuVBBJgcrEyTHN9LtOQUdoApo6bMG8VOVl8nh_OdKMyx5TR74uwGI/s1600/IMG_5202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiaxTOa6lwGjhiB7PjlVvaUIXSlZGpDvB-3xv8mB7u_nFGaLHcLfMp4KdRUCAdB0MQxR1yVYfUX0ymfeydLSw1j1cuVBBJgcrEyTHN9LtOQUdoApo6bMG8VOVl8nh_OdKMyx5TR74uwGI/s1600/IMG_5202.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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I really liked how it set up. </div>
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You could serve this at a casual gathering or</div>
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Pre-plate it for a more formal occasion</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtvII0YPUyCEi_gFixf3CU0UrS56KXyxoBjZrMmppp_oC72-pcCNY3gKMJhUlQJvWj38jiIdvoOT-2Q3PRnRih8gfkxIIniDByo8aKFZFiJvbPvwhoaLICapLkhZmnvFrxBIdyhfpps0/s1600/IMG_5176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtvII0YPUyCEi_gFixf3CU0UrS56KXyxoBjZrMmppp_oC72-pcCNY3gKMJhUlQJvWj38jiIdvoOT-2Q3PRnRih8gfkxIIniDByo8aKFZFiJvbPvwhoaLICapLkhZmnvFrxBIdyhfpps0/s1600/IMG_5176.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is what the caught on the beach one day...</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrooynKu0IcxjJPMhTlBfCm8zGD3lHIESQfL3fps1mUwSFPGGB71_p8t6X-LidGhhE_juB4g1H7Kytj-lvaEM-kJ7Dc0FmuWXHfyJkB3gsLltoI8yrDEOnrCEu-v90-Ymo1-Yqc_py4yo/s1600/IMG_5187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrooynKu0IcxjJPMhTlBfCm8zGD3lHIESQfL3fps1mUwSFPGGB71_p8t6X-LidGhhE_juB4g1H7Kytj-lvaEM-kJ7Dc0FmuWXHfyJkB3gsLltoI8yrDEOnrCEu-v90-Ymo1-Yqc_py4yo/s1600/IMG_5187.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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They call this a Lemon Shark...</div>
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I call it never going into the water again</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4NcMVdKcy7PMIiNVTONJKlXkk3fwu4fm6Q_7TnyClI7T0O-y1_YFXPNTsZmPwo3A-bOCOqeOsAJ0gKp_eTm6QckbK21OwqFj7Jv_fIVkqIqm5Hj8wVf49vkFbS074acm_08RCSP3mnc/s1600/IMAG1435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4NcMVdKcy7PMIiNVTONJKlXkk3fwu4fm6Q_7TnyClI7T0O-y1_YFXPNTsZmPwo3A-bOCOqeOsAJ0gKp_eTm6QckbK21OwqFj7Jv_fIVkqIqm5Hj8wVf49vkFbS074acm_08RCSP3mnc/s1600/IMAG1435.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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My Mom and I in front of this large gardenia bush.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzXD5ykVCw4dcc5Of_DyzWT68d4qngBE98hDvtr0j52-L3S84xDvnndQvglvmfw0fG2q6LCS1QXy9uHOu3Rf1NZRSnS0K_NZIxW-vANhKjf2adAYe2CguW8x4x43L_7b3F8zV4bvER48o/s1600/IMG_5136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzXD5ykVCw4dcc5Of_DyzWT68d4qngBE98hDvtr0j52-L3S84xDvnndQvglvmfw0fG2q6LCS1QXy9uHOu3Rf1NZRSnS0K_NZIxW-vANhKjf2adAYe2CguW8x4x43L_7b3F8zV4bvER48o/s1600/IMG_5136.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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And this is how you end a wonderful vacation..</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-41199934391335766792015-02-27T10:05:00.002-08:002015-02-27T10:05:16.648-08:00Blueberry Muffin SmoothieWell, it is the last working day in February. WOOT WOOT.. We had more snow on Wednesday and Thursday. It is also only 6 degrees today. Insane. I am wearing out my sweaters. I live in several layers of clothing...<br />
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If you were wondering, I still drink smoothies. I still look for smoothie recipes and I still LOVE my Vitamix. The best invention ever. Sometimes, I look back at all my posts from last year, Holy crazy girl. I still eat my overnight oats for breakfast, and eat my spinach salads for lunch. Smoothies are still fun. My Husband and I are on our yearly low carbohydrate diets. He is of course losing tons of weight and me.... pretty much nothing. That is why I did not give up my oats. They are so beneficial to me. He received P90x3 for Christmas. 30 minute workouts. It is condensed, but a power packed workout. I am mixing between P90x3, Piyo and Insanity. (I should really buy stock in Beachbody) I received a rowing machine for Christmas. Rowing is such a total body workout. I really love it. I also go to Crossfit twice a week. My core has leaned up and my muscles have developed more. It is a challenged. Yoga is still on my list. Once or twice a week..<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-YcAgAumH-lLqWPSbVrZ2nxmKFCTWz94_nwKRqICgqWUOcMWa3qrqgzTWWSipflPMhEHCX3FT1rNVXXsV-WCvHIh15s_cHNH1Wh1EFvaGBGTXdnwFogqmtSgvELu92IlNJhdqDWloBQg/s1600/IMG_5112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-YcAgAumH-lLqWPSbVrZ2nxmKFCTWz94_nwKRqICgqWUOcMWa3qrqgzTWWSipflPMhEHCX3FT1rNVXXsV-WCvHIh15s_cHNH1Wh1EFvaGBGTXdnwFogqmtSgvELu92IlNJhdqDWloBQg/s1600/IMG_5112.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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This Blueberry Muffin smoothie is Delicious. My Husband and I were craving something sweet, but did not want to sabotage our hard work. This was so good. Blueberries are a super fruit and everything else is just the icing on the cake<br />
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<b>Blueberry Muffin Smoothie</b><br />
adapted from Jewel grocery store recipes<br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
1 cup Almond Milk<br />
1/2 cup Blueberries, fresh or frozen<br />
2 tablespoons Whole Oats<br />
2 tablespoons Cashew Butter<br />
1 teaspoon Cinnamon<br />
1/2 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder<br />
ice<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
Add all ingredients into a high power blender and mix for 1-2 minutes, or until smooth. Add ice if you want to. Pour into a glass and drink up...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqyROSMI6mhrsfaD-QTPVNSjqr8ltnopJ08ds4dgSqyuAoxaa7kU5DNCVBKQp7axzN0XJ_3gpZJwk23CVUHXoOggi_DPWLbTgyra_KCnSx_mDZF1rO8fkDxn-spEIkpNgAsYmC2IghLJs/s1600/IMG_5114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqyROSMI6mhrsfaD-QTPVNSjqr8ltnopJ08ds4dgSqyuAoxaa7kU5DNCVBKQp7axzN0XJ_3gpZJwk23CVUHXoOggi_DPWLbTgyra_KCnSx_mDZF1rO8fkDxn-spEIkpNgAsYmC2IghLJs/s1600/IMG_5114.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just simple ingredients you can have in your pantry</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYc2wiTIqp3GcARUYh5r0IX3HjX73MLtJgKIH42XSVC5deIouCg8xW98uhTGGp3pPPXcPZ-jnMtq480Va2kqGxEKGueALcOft7_5S01Qp-GnmzT5Ozv-srEfgVP72agb9tgEwLCFCSnOk/s1600/IMG_5116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYc2wiTIqp3GcARUYh5r0IX3HjX73MLtJgKIH42XSVC5deIouCg8xW98uhTGGp3pPPXcPZ-jnMtq480Va2kqGxEKGueALcOft7_5S01Qp-GnmzT5Ozv-srEfgVP72agb9tgEwLCFCSnOk/s1600/IMG_5116.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
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I had forgotten how absolutely fabulous Cashew Butter is.</div>
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I did have a spoonful. OMG... sinfully delicious</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjslNUroy4iEFl24Dzet-qocfTlPsPDAV6g0lqMhqiO02Pdgbo7NdprMc8tKZ02YGHU3e4KM8OeGsCkVNNUhv1S6vOUMHQeNVQRv2GmGVtgQsGj-Ez9OjBdXr1k0QkuE_N1ftEqjr3C1vU/s1600/IMG_5113-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjslNUroy4iEFl24Dzet-qocfTlPsPDAV6g0lqMhqiO02Pdgbo7NdprMc8tKZ02YGHU3e4KM8OeGsCkVNNUhv1S6vOUMHQeNVQRv2GmGVtgQsGj-Ez9OjBdXr1k0QkuE_N1ftEqjr3C1vU/s1600/IMG_5113-001.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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I was liking the beautiful blue ~~ almost purple color</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-85956181545833419682015-02-20T11:59:00.000-08:002015-02-20T11:59:04.260-08:00Caramel DelightsI found another one... WOW, these are are SO amazing.. I could eat the whole pan. I made these for a tray for a customer. She thought they were delicious. Cheryl loves my Chocolate Peanut Butter Gooey bars (featured 10/29/14), but she thought these ranked very high..<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJO-062iQCInKFlewGXS6klfRzp2v6HZi7cYHkiJV2Ocf7mzp5ZmuqtMIEbw8D_67K4iHji7wmcgD17WwOQCN1Vv8zbJIw5xA_KQsIv7YZQzpsJQwu5G3I7BEm4cZhwPJEOjrdl1Rd5Ng/s1600/IMG_5063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJO-062iQCInKFlewGXS6klfRzp2v6HZi7cYHkiJV2Ocf7mzp5ZmuqtMIEbw8D_67K4iHji7wmcgD17WwOQCN1Vv8zbJIw5xA_KQsIv7YZQzpsJQwu5G3I7BEm4cZhwPJEOjrdl1Rd5Ng/s1600/IMG_5063.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is a mouthwatering combinations of caramel, chocolate and oats.</div>
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Holy amazing.. Soft and chewy with a melding of flavors.</div>
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They are rich and sweet, but so good.</div>
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These would totally melt the coldest heart, or give you a diabetic coma...</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Caramel Delights</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
modified from <a href="http://livforcake.com/">livforcake.com</a><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
3/4 cup (1 1/2 stick) butter, melted<br />
3/4 cup brown sugar<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
1 1/2 cup flour<br />
1 cup rolled oats<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 10 ounce bag caramel chips (or 14 ounce bag caramels)<br />
1/2 cup heavy cream<br />
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips<br />
1/2 teaspoon sea salt<br />
<br />
<b>Directions</b><br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line an 8x8 pan with tin foil and coat with cooking spray<br />
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In a bowl of a mixer, combine melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla, flour, oats and baking soda. Mix well to combine.<br />
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Press <b>HALF </b>of this mixture into the bottom of the 8x8 pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until starting to brown.<br />
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While the crust is baking, make caramel sauce. In a small saucepan, add the caramels and cream. Heat over medium/low heat. Stir until smooth. Set aside<br />
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Remove pan from the oven and sprinkle with chocolate chips evenly over the top. Gently pour the caramel sauce over the chocolate chips.<br />
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Sprinkle the caramel with sea salt. Will amp up the flavor<br />
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Crumble remaining oat/flour mixture over the caramel and return to the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges are lightly browned. Remove from oven and cool completely before cutting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvwv4VCJYE3F2mz3utsUOaJrPHkyndnvD2wB6H68W5Ij9SE5lQWXo68IjPpMLboq_iPnFU5npa0MdaIz-mTRqlXB3m9YoIVTaEZa8jTH339wOB05J7wqBXRbdPqk-_dc2jH7SvCuMxPI/s1600/IMG_5057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvwv4VCJYE3F2mz3utsUOaJrPHkyndnvD2wB6H68W5Ij9SE5lQWXo68IjPpMLboq_iPnFU5npa0MdaIz-mTRqlXB3m9YoIVTaEZa8jTH339wOB05J7wqBXRbdPqk-_dc2jH7SvCuMxPI/s1600/IMG_5057.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Simple ingredients all added to the bowl at once</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgae9P32dawZTMquqUUyMbD5hOByuxfli74X5WHi1znOItyA78PnnwZZdWIDLAY6VEpTESHYfIXyVoPR4OMAwixHxN7LgbWCwUjd1nv5emlzTCFSWFgUx8mbfAFRab9xo0qWylyB3yMdOo/s1600/IMG_5060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgae9P32dawZTMquqUUyMbD5hOByuxfli74X5WHi1znOItyA78PnnwZZdWIDLAY6VEpTESHYfIXyVoPR4OMAwixHxN7LgbWCwUjd1nv5emlzTCFSWFgUx8mbfAFRab9xo0qWylyB3yMdOo/s1600/IMG_5060.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Baked crust with the chocolate chips added</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzfWL5-ba9eiwIHryDvuNNQlnP5A4Fvvt9KLbs-pAiK1RHwSnBLiwRO_4sDCeix7u5iGHhp1AogIZJ2OwnPtxOKCJn_Yz1P4Kpk7ClavYk0CtQ8G3H1XdG-EwdZu6iZPwFyulD2OPcYE/s1600/IMG_5059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzfWL5-ba9eiwIHryDvuNNQlnP5A4Fvvt9KLbs-pAiK1RHwSnBLiwRO_4sDCeix7u5iGHhp1AogIZJ2OwnPtxOKCJn_Yz1P4Kpk7ClavYk0CtQ8G3H1XdG-EwdZu6iZPwFyulD2OPcYE/s1600/IMG_5059.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Gently melted caramel and cream sauce</div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Poured over the top of the nuts</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Add remaining crumble and bake for 15-20 minutes longer</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEyKzARWY1zYAeu5k-wbqy5ltTzRL0vzPq53er-WvNxWwXh8OAZ9_vSdEYWzfLUUa-F6DHLaxHo9Z6AqsYORP917uDMM-nxlmEQ9Oj5DUY1B87tdtAmhHmyj3YfSAR3de2_LwZz9gPag/s1600/IMG_5062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEyKzARWY1zYAeu5k-wbqy5ltTzRL0vzPq53er-WvNxWwXh8OAZ9_vSdEYWzfLUUa-F6DHLaxHo9Z6AqsYORP917uDMM-nxlmEQ9Oj5DUY1B87tdtAmhHmyj3YfSAR3de2_LwZz9gPag/s1600/IMG_5062.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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These beauties are ready to be eaten</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpv9_Zx1iMZDtDCpJRq1cAxVOZHkaSuKNKFe3vZegzm0nBopV5EEFnJDI54c6m9qcNqtenRwevs_itoCpygL4obNW9lNPNuQ3bVXnmnNVKN32gwk_0Lo43iaYbexsikhrN3_jOjALqz5k/s1600/IMG_5064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpv9_Zx1iMZDtDCpJRq1cAxVOZHkaSuKNKFe3vZegzm0nBopV5EEFnJDI54c6m9qcNqtenRwevs_itoCpygL4obNW9lNPNuQ3bVXnmnNVKN32gwk_0Lo43iaYbexsikhrN3_jOjALqz5k/s1600/IMG_5064.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Chocolate and Caramel... some of the good things in life.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These are an easy bar. Give them a whirl and let me </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
know what you think.</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-76184873232804677132015-02-16T13:37:00.001-08:002015-05-21T11:12:13.047-07:00Chicken Cacciatore<b>Happy Almost Valentine's Day... </b><br />
I have been baking like a mad women. I had two customers throw in birthday cakes also.. And one of the birthdays was in January. That cake is cool, but OMG people, I am dying here.. I may end up sharing a picture of the panda cake. And maybe next time.<br />
<br />
So with Valentine's day being on a Saturday, are you a go out to dinner kind of person. Well we are not. My Husbands' birthday was 2 weeks ago and mine is in 3 weeks. We used to do very romantic things for each, but being married 12 years has changed that. Most of my Sweets job will be for Friday. I have a cake for Sunday morning pickup.. What a crazy weekend.<br />
<br />
As much as I love surf and turf, that is not always budget friendly. And If you have a house full of kids, it totally does not work. In walks Chicken Cacciatore. This was fantastic. I think I made this years ago, but it has been a long time. This is a budget friendly dinner, that can feed 8 or make small packages for the freezer and later dinners. The recipe stated that you could spoon it over mashed potatoes or polenta. Both are my favorites, but we are dieting... Augh... So I cooked lentils and combined those with the chicken. My Husband would have LOVED mashed potatoes, but he wants to diet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHVP9rCMoUU-mukdf3g-aq5n9FhecBmndvguJPPEMlDMO37w_XFAzFQj9V1asmE36P2bzj8skAcdPyLZ0aLWh0qUyRwtPEfayMxuDJeRVsTu5EHfoi3wskQElVzlwmbT50uVcGJgJOYQ/s1600/IMG_5056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHVP9rCMoUU-mukdf3g-aq5n9FhecBmndvguJPPEMlDMO37w_XFAzFQj9V1asmE36P2bzj8skAcdPyLZ0aLWh0qUyRwtPEfayMxuDJeRVsTu5EHfoi3wskQElVzlwmbT50uVcGJgJOYQ/s1600/IMG_5056.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My Husband just needs to light diet and workout, and </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
off come the pounds. Just sensible eating and portion control.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>MEN!!</b></div>
<br />
<b>Chicken Cacciatore</b><br />
very slightly modified from <a href="http://www.kitchenparade.com/">www.kitchenparade.com</a><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
1/4 cup flour<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
8 chicken thighs, skin removed<br />
1 tablespoon olive oil<br />
1 large onion, chopped (2 cups)<br />
1 red bell pepper, chopped<br />
8 ounces fresh mushrooms, chopped<br />
24 ounces canned diced tomatoes<br />
16 ounces tomato sauce<br />
1 cup dry red wine<br />
2 tablespoons brown sugar<br />
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning<br />
<br />
<b>Directions</b><br />
Combine the flour, salt and pepper in a large dish. Roll the chicken pieces in the flour until lightly coated. Heat a large Dutch oven on medium high. Add the olive oil and lightly brown the chicken on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.<br />
<br />
To the large pan, add the garlic, onion, red pepper and mushrooms. Saute until soft. Add the remaining ingredients, cook for 5 minutes and then add the chicken.<br />
<br />
STOVETOP: Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and let simmer for 2-3 hours ( or longer) stirring occasionally.<br />
<br />
OVEN: Cover and cook in a 200 degree oven for 2-3 hours (or even longer). To let the sauce thicken, uncover for the last 30 minutes or so.<br />
<br />
Serve with Mashed potatoes, rice, polenta, or lentils to soak up the rich sauce.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26AD63sZyq4eTqm64ayaNe3q7hRfhsbDFM2-Q7WCou9P1gRBE0_kpz59D4b-WfDapd0OsYBd6H1c4b9gHrXwdY_CoNUNGrqfD-fcNozBzuyDxzlFm8yQ1ie88OnSwqDV8PnvDXjtQonc/s1600/IMG_5052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26AD63sZyq4eTqm64ayaNe3q7hRfhsbDFM2-Q7WCou9P1gRBE0_kpz59D4b-WfDapd0OsYBd6H1c4b9gHrXwdY_CoNUNGrqfD-fcNozBzuyDxzlFm8yQ1ie88OnSwqDV8PnvDXjtQonc/s1600/IMG_5052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used average size thighs. This recipe has some flexibility </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to add more chicken for a larger group</div>
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I dumped in all the vegetables and started sauting</div>
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This is after it has cooked for awhile.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Dj2Ombm2QLTxHe7_vUhnpXmJ2XupsCSj7ksKkVfvVCxrQUbTh_fMhPJLMDGdlfdSkMhaY3_swDYy5T0FyEQ-rPQoU2t-pFvDasZgZXnojNTU765F5V24MHI0BUb-YrQsQms1AbM_2dM/s1600/IMG_5055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Dj2Ombm2QLTxHe7_vUhnpXmJ2XupsCSj7ksKkVfvVCxrQUbTh_fMhPJLMDGdlfdSkMhaY3_swDYy5T0FyEQ-rPQoU2t-pFvDasZgZXnojNTU765F5V24MHI0BUb-YrQsQms1AbM_2dM/s1600/IMG_5055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
Do you see this RICH color of the slow cooked sauce.<br />
Every meal cannot always take this long, but<br />
once in awhile, it does taste delicious.<br />
Sometimes, in our fast pace world, you forget<br />
how savory food can really taste.<br />
SLOW Down and enjoy dinner.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-4277208320408121772015-02-10T12:45:00.000-08:002015-02-10T12:45:13.652-08:00Baklava BarsI have found heaven.. These bars are AMAZING.. If you like Baklava or Honey, you will LOVE these bars. Oh ... in heaven, these bars would contain no calories.. But here on earth, they are not diet friendly. They are perfect for Valentine's day for that non chocolate person. (whomever that may be)<br />
<br />
I made these for the first time at Christmas, they were a HUGE hit, and I loved them. I always wonder why I need to work out everyday... I had two trays in January that also requested them. So these will also be perfect for Valentines. Nothing says love like some "honey" honey.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9eHh3bNyAPTvMzQiqpc6lP5RqKBCglNxSVUQG1ijK1Eei_W_rMppNTInnTq-ViwXoXYzIpK1UCKRg2vF1oZj7VXwEnCWplkOXV95ZzIc1k3y60qS1f_bExJDvndwO8-MiebNyfLx1v5g/s1600/IMG_4943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9eHh3bNyAPTvMzQiqpc6lP5RqKBCglNxSVUQG1ijK1Eei_W_rMppNTInnTq-ViwXoXYzIpK1UCKRg2vF1oZj7VXwEnCWplkOXV95ZzIc1k3y60qS1f_bExJDvndwO8-MiebNyfLx1v5g/s1600/IMG_4943.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These lovely delights could sit next to any cookie any day</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and they are perfect all year round</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This recipe does come together fairly quickly.. The steps are just spelled out to make things easier. This recipe will impress your family and friends. And you will have kicked it up a notch. </div>
<br />
<b>Baklava Bars</b><br />
hugely modified from <a href="http://bettycrocker.com/">Bettycrocker.com</a><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
<b>Cookie Base</b><br />
1 stick of butter, softened<br />
1 cup of granulated sugar<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
1 egg<br />
2 cups of all purpose flour<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
<br />
<b>Filling</b><br />
1 1/2 cup chopped walnuts<br />
1/3 cup granulated sugar<br />
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened<br />
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
1 package frozen mini fillo shells<br />
<br />
<b>Glaze</b><br />
1/2 cup honey<br />
1/4 cup 1/2 stick) butter<br />
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar<br />
1 teaspoon lemon juice<br />
1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
<br />
<b>Directions</b><br />
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 x 13 baking pan with tin foil. Spray well with cooking spray.<br />
<br />
In a large bowl of a mixer with a paddle attachment, mix butter and sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add egg and mix and then add vanilla extract. Add remaining dry ingredients and mix. A soft dough will form. Press dough into baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes.<br />
<br />
While crust is baking, in a medium bowl, stir walnuts, granulated sugar, butter and cinnamon with a fork until mixture is well mixed and crumbly.<br />
<br />
Sprinkle nut mixture evenly over partially baked base. With your hands, crumble frozen fillo shells evenly over nut mixture. Bake for 18-20 minutes longer or until golden brown.<br />
<br />
While that is baking, in a small microwaveable bowl, microwave honey, butter, brown sugar, lemon juice and cinnamon on high for 1 minute or until bubbly. Stir in vanilla. Drizzle this mixture over your cooked fillo bar evenly. cool completely about 2 hours.<br />
<br />
Store covered at room temperature, if the are not totally devoured.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnj4JZ-hhDbZqaTl-Nca13vk7N28eSLnJZV-FI5G-wj-IlpJkSVxle8gKI3VETjzctwu5H7qLbaeBhZYLEF2rzjiEOmsjvMk1VUB1gV_qj82XJ4WyesPBkCICFDgL-q7NXUm_vsrVmWhw/s1600/IMG_4957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnj4JZ-hhDbZqaTl-Nca13vk7N28eSLnJZV-FI5G-wj-IlpJkSVxle8gKI3VETjzctwu5H7qLbaeBhZYLEF2rzjiEOmsjvMk1VUB1gV_qj82XJ4WyesPBkCICFDgL-q7NXUm_vsrVmWhw/s1600/IMG_4957.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A soft dough. Gently spread out, using your fingers</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
into your baking pan. Cover surface evenly</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Baked for 15 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Edges are "just" starting to brown</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nuts, sugar, butter, cinnamon topping</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
ready to go next</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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These shells are in the freezer dept.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Usually near the frozen pie shells and cool whip area</div>
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I decided that I will buy these again.</div>
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There are "countless" different things I can make with them</div>
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Breaking it up into small pieces</div>
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Baked for the second time and drizzled with a Honey mixture</div>
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This was from my January trays. </div>
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Everyone loved them ... and the pizelles also</div>
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Taking an old Greek dessert and making it easier.</div>
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Baklava is fussy and labor intensive. </div>
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With a bit of knowledge, any baker can whip these up </div>
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for a special event... or a Wednesday..</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-19441611512317228832015-01-17T09:00:00.000-08:002015-01-17T09:00:02.612-08:00Coconut Overnight Oatmeal<br />
So... Here I am ... strolling along, eating my same overnight oatmeal day after day. I am happy, because it is yummy and does what I need it to do... <b>BUT, I found another recipe... </b>I have listed different flavors of overnight oatmeal on my blog and so has the rest of the blog community, but this recipe looked delicious. So, I opened my pantry and my frig, I was missing 1 or 2 things.. SO behold, I made a new recipe. IF and only IF you like coconut, these overnight oats are just amazing. The whole time I ate them this morning, I smiled. The flavor of coconut made me think of a warm tropical day. (ON a COLD Freezing day in January in Illinois) It was like eating oatmeal and pudding all on one happy spoon. I am trying to eat healthier and oatmeal fills me up for hours. THROW AWAY the Packets. They are gross. Make it yourself. This breakfast was loaded with all kinds of goodness. Totally happy.<br />
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<br />
Good morning.<br />
The Oatmeal was smooth,<br />
The Chia seeds were plump<br />
and the Coconut flavor was throughtout</div>
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<b>Coconut Overnight Oatmeal</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Adapted from ME</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Ingredients</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 cup Oatmeal</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 cup Coconut or Almond Milk</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 5-6 ounce container Coconut Yogurt</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 teaspoon Chia Seeds</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1/4 cup shredded Coconut</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Directions</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In a container or jar, place oatmeal, chia seeds, yogurt, milk and coconut in that order. Stir thoroughly. Sprinkle with a topping of coconut on top and place in refrigerator overnight. In the morning stir and eat up.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
5 easy ingredients. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A great start for any next day breakfast</div>
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Add in your ingredients</div>
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Chia seeds are loaded with Omega 3's. </div>
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Oatmeal is a healthy Fiber</div>
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and Yogurt contains Protein</div>
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I just like the look of delicious fun. I am very lame</div>
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It is already thick. The spoon is sitting on top</div>
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<br />
Topped with some coconut.<br />
If you did not want it so thick, do not add the yogurt.<br />
It was a much more filling meal with it in it. YOU decide..</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-2264948975055628932015-01-16T07:39:00.001-08:002015-01-16T07:39:07.462-08:00Slow Cooker Apple Cranberry Dump CakeOk, Ok, OK, I know, I have totally fallen off the face of the earth. Not really. Just my blog..I am still baking and cooking all the time. I just have not written at all... Last year I started with a bang and just keep blasting through, well, at least towards the end of the year. Total peter out...<br />
<br />
I really think I need to make writing my blog a New years resolution..<br />
<br />
There are still tons of new recipes for me to try out. And at Christmas time, I added new cookie recipes to my repertoire. Sorry, one day, I will post them..In the new year, we have not started our hard core diet yet. There is no new junk food in the house. We are eating more clean and not buying Fried chicken from the local grocery store as convenience. (IT does taste great) I made my first turkey over the weekend. My Husband was quite surprised that I had never made a full fledged turkey. I had to call my Mom and sister for some pointers. One of our vendors gave me a 20 lb bird for Christmas. Shoved it in the freezer and waited until January. This baby took about a day and a half of thawing out. Hung out in the kitchen sink. On Sunday, I removed the insides, basted with butter and spiced it up. 4 and 1/2 hours later, we had turkey. I let it sit for about one hour. Covered it with foil. Then I started carving. That bird was still hot... Carving is not something I am very good at.. Those skills need LOADS of work.<br />
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Probably should have covered it with foil sooner.</div>
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So while the turkey was cooking, I decided to whip up a tasty dessert using my crock pot. I am trying to use my appliances. I like the crock pot, but I rarely use it.. I did make a ham in it last week.. Tasted fantastic.<br />
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<br /></div>
Back to my dessert.. Apples have on hand. Still drinking my cranberry smoothies, fresh cranberries on hand, and who does not have a yellow cake mix on hand....This lovely dessert was quick to whip up, the house smell simply amazing.. Between a turkey and baking apples, who would not want to be a my house on a Sunday afternoon.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
This was delicious, BUT it could have used some Vanilla Ice Cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>Slow Cooker Apple Cranberry Dump Cake</b><br />
modified from <b>Cooking.com</b><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
4 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and chopped<br />
1 cup fresh Cranberries (fresh or frozen)<br />
2 teaspoons Cinnamon<br />
1/2 of a Yellow Cake mix. (use the other half another day)<br />
1/2 cup Brown Sugar<br />
4 tablespoons Butter, melted<br />
1/2 chopped Pecans<br />
<br />
<b>Directions</b><br />
Lightly spray or grease the slow cooker insert. Add all 4 apples and the 1 cup of cranberries to the insert. Sprinkle the cinnamon over the fruit. Evenly pour your cake mix over the apples and cranberries. Gently sprinkle the brown sugar over the cake mix. Slowly pour the melted butter over the brown sugar. Drop in your chopped pecans all over the mixture. Add a dash of cinnamon all over the top.<br />
<br />
Put lid on crock. set on high setting for 2 1/2 hours. When completed, gently remove lid. Wipe off lid.<br />
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Remember to peel your apples before you start chopping.</div>
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It is loads more work this way to peel<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtguRfYFMy9d1BM_jUWeexh2Z69ToLRXn-AD-NqXyX0a66OulNU9o15GmpspsIH40y4ahGyIcjnV1w1qJsbuuf0wPwhllARYOcs5jcUuwSO5GoIpgfIf680dwIkK-bfM5sNB_0FJ0dc3A/s1600/IMG_4996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtguRfYFMy9d1BM_jUWeexh2Z69ToLRXn-AD-NqXyX0a66OulNU9o15GmpspsIH40y4ahGyIcjnV1w1qJsbuuf0wPwhllARYOcs5jcUuwSO5GoIpgfIf680dwIkK-bfM5sNB_0FJ0dc3A/s1600/IMG_4996.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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I made this for my Husband and I with some left overs.<br />
You can always double the recipe for a larger group<br />
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Photo skills are not doing this dessert justice.<br />
I liked eating it the next day cold.<br />
Warm or Cold, It was Husband Approved<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-70668368999570406062014-12-29T12:29:00.001-08:002014-12-29T12:29:20.438-08:00Cranberry SmoothieThe diet is in another state...<br />
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I try to eat healthy everyday, but with the holidays come chocolate and sugar and butter and salt and and and ... I am still exercising, but I am barely maintaining. It is a huge losing battle. Over sized sweaters are becoming my new friend. They can camouflage anything. </div>
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Since I love fresh cranberries, I decided to make a winter drink. It is a great way to get some protein and the benefits of cranberries. They are loaded with anti-oxidants. I really just love the fresh taste of them. I also made a loaf of cranberry nut bread. Should have posted that. It was just delicious.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTDmeSAYSst1AckEk9vf1rLqDWf8X-bUWCiRM9e1X4MG2HRSK1iKta7ST90uZJ-TbTsD_xa6vb-64LKcE2CQmzoR0x1uCVb9vEZD8buq8TtfY-XGgtoVyYp4ovt2zADvRswdEVyoA3aQ/s1600/IMG_4875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTDmeSAYSst1AckEk9vf1rLqDWf8X-bUWCiRM9e1X4MG2HRSK1iKta7ST90uZJ-TbTsD_xa6vb-64LKcE2CQmzoR0x1uCVb9vEZD8buq8TtfY-XGgtoVyYp4ovt2zADvRswdEVyoA3aQ/s1600/IMG_4875.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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The beautiful purple swirls of flavor</div>
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<b>Cranberry Smoothie</b></div>
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<b>designed by ME</b></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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1 cup Almond Milk</div>
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1 tablespoon of Vanilla Protein Powder</div>
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1 cup or so grated Cranberries</div>
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1 squirt of Agave Nectar</div>
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ICE</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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Place Almond milk and Protein powder in the high power blender. Mix. Add remaining ingredients and mix until blended. Because my Almond milk was sweetened, I needed less agave nectar. Suite to taste.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1EQgpe7otQkUSECa5hkO-dqeaPsqrZELAjeZruWgoA1abBSc_lP99J-cqO9C5MRSNQcaErNckC5qgQ-x1vquuhxKfLgImXNqb642yj_JWiAq-cyLzI0zJ55JqQM_KB2qNP0eypTByT8/s1600/IMG_4871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1EQgpe7otQkUSECa5hkO-dqeaPsqrZELAjeZruWgoA1abBSc_lP99J-cqO9C5MRSNQcaErNckC5qgQ-x1vquuhxKfLgImXNqb642yj_JWiAq-cyLzI0zJ55JqQM_KB2qNP0eypTByT8/s1600/IMG_4871.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Raw goodness</div>
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How much easier can this get</div>
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This was a full glass of delicious flavors</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_jLAPe8_MFGWMJ2TpOIlsJU5f-snDgcaTWw7xe8lLnonRxSpRoh49NK1hrtunFDGtM846AMC4R5UjXV8T56f4HHgvpgg8OzCe4a_Anb4_pz5ZXg5ePJ3qhwhsx9lVrUEPHAPrGI8gMY/s1600/IMG_4874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_jLAPe8_MFGWMJ2TpOIlsJU5f-snDgcaTWw7xe8lLnonRxSpRoh49NK1hrtunFDGtM846AMC4R5UjXV8T56f4HHgvpgg8OzCe4a_Anb4_pz5ZXg5ePJ3qhwhsx9lVrUEPHAPrGI8gMY/s1600/IMG_4874.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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If you wanted to strain, you could, BUT why..</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-39105824981546034892014-12-16T13:03:00.003-08:002014-12-16T13:03:59.627-08:00Christmas Box ProjectBecause I love to decorate all year round, and especially at Christmas. I decided to do a planter box. The beauty of this project, is that you can do it any size, shape or style. There are NO directions with this project. Just use your imagination and let your creative juices flow.<br />
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So, this Fall I was out at my Moms. I was in the looking at her pots and planters. She asked me if I wanted it, at the time, I was not sure. Buzzing around Pinterest, this idea hit me. My Husband was out at her house, and "borrowed" the box. If she needs it back, I will be happy to return it to her.<br />
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It was just a plain color. It took a couple of coats of green spray paint, to give it the color I wanted. I also did some wisps of gold paint. I am still not sure about the gold. I wanted it to pop.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5h3VZPqUX8L7eMV0hJpFp767SM0w6DJ4HgSiCGuw1kfAPbpkqqsSgIh1QJccHEvptGm9IcE9h4ImLRg6n43H6kPP8iyfQeYqbDKImsiShjTNQ7E0Ok426smJcQv11ifbD_gkcDQPd_mo/s1600/IMG_4853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5h3VZPqUX8L7eMV0hJpFp767SM0w6DJ4HgSiCGuw1kfAPbpkqqsSgIh1QJccHEvptGm9IcE9h4ImLRg6n43H6kPP8iyfQeYqbDKImsiShjTNQ7E0Ok426smJcQv11ifbD_gkcDQPd_mo/s1600/IMG_4853.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just a lightweight planter box</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGuQUK7NUsSa90Nk2H00lvdjwPwhaIyJRCxjCKoSy4via746VRo5i-i3D9oZCOkJZQJwIMsFtxnMOKFXmD82F0nUrez_-gGHTUmzKIhe0GcieI0guDNAjp9FOP4aA_YD2TVaisQObLp8/s1600/IMG_4854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGuQUK7NUsSa90Nk2H00lvdjwPwhaIyJRCxjCKoSy4via746VRo5i-i3D9oZCOkJZQJwIMsFtxnMOKFXmD82F0nUrez_-gGHTUmzKIhe0GcieI0guDNAjp9FOP4aA_YD2TVaisQObLp8/s1600/IMG_4854.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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As we all know, I love to spray paint. </div>
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I so could have been a tagger. Maybe it is the defacing of property </div>
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and getting in trouble that has stopped me..</div>
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OK, you can use any color. Something that works with </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
your color scheme. Or just a favorite color</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIhM5G28K3q8MaK6rQ977ZW_jHOnExxxOZyLsC5V70DRXEgILsWTpjLxX-ba2ZcBzzwI5VnRo7qvLeYuifE6NIDHBznd759PYlIM07Q9XC-oZ3aZdHKcZtC9RKRodWGMZcIcQxMqquQo/s1600/IMG_4856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIhM5G28K3q8MaK6rQ977ZW_jHOnExxxOZyLsC5V70DRXEgILsWTpjLxX-ba2ZcBzzwI5VnRo7qvLeYuifE6NIDHBznd759PYlIM07Q9XC-oZ3aZdHKcZtC9RKRodWGMZcIcQxMqquQo/s1600/IMG_4856.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Two or three coats and some wisps of Gold. </div>
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You see it from the street, and that is why I want some pop</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMNAsV_pW6DgT1PPi9-5yzMyuTHqq-j-yMMsD-gjKWuGrrEbJRzT-mC6lHPFHYeYxi3csxV4EcVZlW6h3Se9FZ5JtWt2ztTDz47s9qIQ0aMU5aYjrMrWtZnvX3wv1EMJ-GWX470t0IDM/s1600/IMG_4857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMNAsV_pW6DgT1PPi9-5yzMyuTHqq-j-yMMsD-gjKWuGrrEbJRzT-mC6lHPFHYeYxi3csxV4EcVZlW6h3Se9FZ5JtWt2ztTDz47s9qIQ0aMU5aYjrMrWtZnvX3wv1EMJ-GWX470t0IDM/s1600/IMG_4857.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Plain old greenery. </div>
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It was stuffed into the box.</div>
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Shatterproof ornaments. </div>
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I used curling ribbon to attach everything together</div>
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Different ribbon and decorations are what added to the colors in this box</div>
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Because of where this box was going, I added color lights</div>
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White or any color would also work.</div>
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We are using all LED lights. We feel that they are</div>
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more energy efficient. My meter is not spinning out of control.</div>
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Just a simple planter box filled with greenery and ornaments. </div>
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I really like this on my porch</div>
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I updated my Christmas tree to match the box<br />
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Two years ago, I made the garland.<br />
With the front door swag from last year<br />
and everything else, my front porch is very inviting<br />
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AND this is my tree...<br />
It is so beautiful this year.<br />
The jewel tones look just beautiful</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-69989020094887096392014-11-26T12:47:00.000-08:002014-11-26T12:47:04.032-08:00Nutella Blondies w/Nutella Caramel IF YOU ARE WATCHING YOUR SUGAR INTAKE, STOP... These bars are not for you. Holy Diabetic Coma. O my goodness. But if you want a blondie that does not became a brick after one day, with a delightful homemade caramel sauce on it.... These are it. Heaven help you. These were made on Friday afternoon for a party, they still were moist and delicious on Monday. How often can you say that about Blondies. Pretty close to never. This is why I almost never make them. As good as they taste, one or two days later, in the garbage can.<br />
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I am having some alignment problem with my website.. I started to frost these bars, cut them and added the remaining frosting. Almost all the sides were covered. Ooey Gooey mess of finger licking goodness. These bars could be included in some decadent FUN... (Just saying)</div>
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OK, Nutella in the blondie and and the caramel sauce.. Totally elevated something regular to a whole new level. Think about this when you are baking and cooking. Bump it up a notch. Food does not have to be boring. Enjoy your food and your life.</div>
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There are a lot of ingredients here. Do not let this dissuade you, Just the blondie bake, add the caramel sauce when done. Just a different type of frosting. Actually, this bar calls for a glaze on top, absolutely unnecessary. There is no need.</div>
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<b>Nutella Blondies w/Nutella Caramel</b></div>
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loosely adapted from <a href="http://cookingandbeer.com/">cookingandbeer.com</a></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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<b>Blondies</b></div>
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1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted</div>
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1 1/2 cup brown sugar</div>
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2 large eggs</div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div>
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3/4 cup Nutella</div>
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2 3/4 cups flour</div>
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1 teaspoon sea salt</div>
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1 teaspoon baking soda</div>
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1 cup white chocolate chips</div>
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1/4 cup granulated sugar</div>
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1 teaspoon cinnamon</div>
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<b>Nutella Caramel </b></div>
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2 cups granulated sugar</div>
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1/2 cup (1 stick) butter</div>
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1 1/2 cups heavy cream</div>
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1/2 cup Nutella</div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div>
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1 teaspoon sea salt</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 x 13 baking pan with tin foil. Spray with cooking spray and set aside.</div>
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In a medium skillet, add the 2 sticks of butter. Cook over medium low heat. Stirring occasionally. The butter will foam and then start to cook. You will smell a wonderful nutty aroma. Please keep an eye, so that the butter does not burn. Once the butter turns, remove from heat and let cool slightly.</div>
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In the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream together the brown butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each one. Add in vanilla and mix. Gently mix in flour, salt and baking soda. DO NOT OVER MIX. Gently fold in white chocolate chips. Pour batter into prepared pan. Smooth out the top</div>
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In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle mixture over the top of the blondies in an even layer. Bake for 20-22 minutes. They will puff slightly. When done baking, remove from oven and let cool.</div>
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While the blondies are cooling, prepare the Nutella caramel. In a heavy bottom saucepan, add the granulated sugar and heat over medium heat. Regularly stir the sugar. The sugar will turn this beautiful amber brown color. Once all the clumps have melted, add the butter and continue to stir until melted. VERY slowly, add the cream into the sugar butter mixture. It will bubble, this is OK. Boil for 1-2 minutes. Then remove from heat. Immediately stir in the Nutella, vanilla extract and sea salt. Set aside and let cool.</div>
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Once the caramel is cooled, pour a thin layer over the blondies. Cut the blondies and spread out slightly. Pour the remaining caramel over the blondies the coat most of the sides. It will make each piece special.</div>
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This batter comes together quickly. If you were out of white chocolate chips, it would not be a tragedy.</div>
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All ready for the oven.</div>
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Once out of the oven, the blondies are puffed.</div>
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Plain old white sugar... nothing special</div>
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Starting to melt and form clumps</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsNlxyxzwt1kiYfo2pPJTu22chjvSTGI6Tn4B4z0p0OXMy_KNcRVgRh8zI6o3AaUWrLKFpdZnIAtlEWIBqnnHg91EFUnl4hY5doADc2x3bl9JCZ_lxhObnS92bN6nOokseFim0e1Bk4w/s1600/IMG_4842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsNlxyxzwt1kiYfo2pPJTu22chjvSTGI6Tn4B4z0p0OXMy_KNcRVgRh8zI6o3AaUWrLKFpdZnIAtlEWIBqnnHg91EFUnl4hY5doADc2x3bl9JCZ_lxhObnS92bN6nOokseFim0e1Bk4w/s1600/IMG_4842.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1meFzeOa0zlf7h53_WWLqnJpXD3TPlvN5oeAGcugL-yfbB7kSj6hYtipJEs1prNqMfw6BOe9ZM_QvrtkHlgBzDWxY2DmXOo4vcgIAvTaLX9RYX4huyv-wTIvsZVadLdGupHnRKHoxRas/s1600/IMG_4846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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Almost totally melted. A few clumps still left. Do you see that beautiful brown color</div>
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Added the butter and then the cream to the mixture</div>
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ONE WORD ~~ Nutella</div>
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Nutella Caramel Sauce.. This could be used for so many different things..<br />
Ice cream, plain old brownies, out of the pan...<br />
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Pouring the thin layer before I cut them</div>
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Most of the sides are covered</div>
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I took these to a party. They look a bit intimidating. </div>
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Once the first person tried one, they were devoured. </div>
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Everyone raved about these.</div>
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I saved a few for my Husband, </div>
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WHOA, I got his approval. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-59608960436725794042014-11-19T11:53:00.000-08:002014-11-19T11:53:30.424-08:00Pecan Cheesecake SquaresHoly rock and roll, I have found Heaven. These bars are amazing... I know, I know, how many times have I said this. I guess because I only post excellent tasting food. WHY would I post a sub par recipe. There really in no point.<br />
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So last Friday was my Mother's 70th birthday.<br />
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We actually started her extravaganza on Thursday. All of her daughters took her to Chicago for Dinner and a Show.<br />
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This was the end of dinner. We went to this wonderful restaurant in Chicago named Balena. Delicious food. From there, we took a cab and went to see the Million Dollar Quartet. It was a wonderful show featuring the likes of Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and Ray Perkins. Just up my mothers alley. Her toe was a tapping and she was clapping.<br />
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It was a wonderful evening. On Friday was her actual birthday, we also had a birthday party for her then. My Mother loves cake without a lot of Frosting. So, I made her this delightful Citrus Almond Cake. (the only picture is above). I will post the recipe sometime when I take more photos. (the brain was not functioning) I also made these delicious mouth watering Pecan Cheesecake Squares. They were totally consumed. Everyone LOVED them and wanted the recipe. IF you really want to ask a question, WHY does someone really need to bring 2 desserts to the second day birthday extravaganza. Because I love to bake, or just crazy.. Hmmm definitely the second one....<br />
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They are not a hard bar to make, There is cooling time between each layer. That is why they take a bit longer to make. They also need to chill and set up before serving. This bar is easy, but just takes some time.<br />
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This tray was devoured. Remember, there was also </div>
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a small lovely cake also. </div>
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<b>Pecan Cheesecake Squares</b><br />
Adapted by <a href="http://positivelysplendid.com/">positivelysplendid.com</a><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
1 1/2 cups flour<br />
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar, DIVIDED<br />
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened<br />
2 cups finely chopped pecans, DIVIDED<br />
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
1/2 cup milk<br />
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, DIVIDED<br />
1/2 cup light corn syrup<br />
1/3 cup butter, melted and cooled slightly<br />
3 large eggs, lightly beaten<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 x 13 pans with tin foil and spray.<br />
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For the shortbread layer. In a mixing bowl with a paddle attachment, combine flour, 3/4 cup of brown sugar and butter. Mix until course crumbs. DO NOT WALK AWAY from the mixer. Unless you want a lump of dough. Stir in 1/2 cup of pecans. Press mixture into your prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes. When done, remove from oven and let cool for 5 - 10 minutes.<br />
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For the cheesecake layer. Please the cream cheese in your mixing bowl. (SAME One from above) Add in sugar and beat until smooth. Add in milk and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix until combined. Pour cream cheese mixture over the shortbread layer. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes.<br />
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For the pecan layer. In a medium bowl, combine the remaining 3/4 cup of brown sugar, corn syrup and melted butter. Gently stir in eggs, salt and remaining 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Once mix, add the 1 1/2 cups of pecans. Mix completely. Slowly pour the pecan mixture over the cooled cheesecake layer. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Or until the center is a rich brown color.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYBy0n7foa4-ToJwnS4xzUYC8hLC0fIvuxS_9VX1ieQJlPZVd57uqMGABv0WfrpFfjIW2trBLGxo3deDWwGbztJCxmdP17ch8EQa56AbaE5qbcGRUVWboBsDQVp7mIVjZVBj_9_AKSZs/s1600/IMG_4779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYBy0n7foa4-ToJwnS4xzUYC8hLC0fIvuxS_9VX1ieQJlPZVd57uqMGABv0WfrpFfjIW2trBLGxo3deDWwGbztJCxmdP17ch8EQa56AbaE5qbcGRUVWboBsDQVp7mIVjZVBj_9_AKSZs/s1600/IMG_4779.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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Pecan.. I could eat the bag of these. </div>
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When buying nuts, store bags in containers</div>
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in your freezer. They will not go rancid over time</div>
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Find pebbles. </div>
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I did this in the mixer, Please watch. YOU do not</div>
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want it to became a lump of dough.</div>
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Patting into pan. I sprayed my hands with Pam</div>
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so that the batter would not stick</div>
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The slightly baked short bread crust cooling and </div>
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waiting for the cheesecake layer</div>
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Ready for the oven</div>
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This layer needed to cool for 10 minutes to firm up</div>
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Pecan Pie on top of the cheesecake layer</div>
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This pan was a bubbling when it came out of the oven</div>
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This bar cut so nice. </div>
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Do you hear, EAT ME PLEASE</div>
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layers of shortbread, cream cheese and pecans</div>
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This is the next day. Totally chilled and set up. </div>
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I may have eaten all of these on this tray.</div>
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Worth the price of pecans.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
THE PICTURE OF HER BIRTHDAY CAKE FOR SATURDAY</div>
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Chocolate layer on bottom and banana cake on top.</div>
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The banana cake is my Florida sisters' recipe.</div>
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I will post that also someday. Delicious</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-69577265682298907582014-10-29T14:19:00.000-07:002014-10-29T14:19:31.287-07:00Chocolate Peanut Butter Gooey BarsSO.... I am on this huge gooey bar kick. This particular bar is absolutely amazing. Oh my Heaven. If you are a chocolate peanut butter lover, these bars are for you. These bars will kick Reese's cups out of the way. Reese's are my husbands favorite. I always try to save some from Halloween. Sweeten his heart... He really knows that I love him very much.<br />
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I really need a manicure... </div>
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Just look at the bar, layers of goodness</div>
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As we all know, I like easy and delicious. These bars have a few steps, but nothing is complicated and they just layer and go together quickly. I took these to a party and they were devoured. I cut them into small pieces and that was perfect. There was also the thought as making these for a birthday dessert. If you are not a cake lover and like peanut butter and chocolate, holy moses, these are a HIT.</div>
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<b>Chocolate Peanut Butter Gooey Bars</b></div>
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modified from <a href="http://recipesfoodandcooking.com/">recipesfoodandcooking.com</a></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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1 Chocolate Cake mix</div>
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1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted</div>
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1 egg</div>
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1 cup chocolate chips</div>
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1 cup peanut butter chips</div>
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1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened</div>
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1 cup peanut butter</div>
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3 eggs</div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div>
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1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted</div>
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4 cups powdered sugar</div>
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1/2 cup chocolate chips</div>
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1 tablespoon peanut butter</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9x13 pan with aluminum foil, and spray the cooking spray. </div>
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In a mixer with a paddle attachment. Combine the cake mix, egg and butter together. Beat until combined. Pat down the cake mix batter into your pan. It will take some patience and a few minutes to cover the entire surface of your pan.</div>
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Pour the chocolate chips over the bottom layer. Pour the peanut butter chips over the chocolate chips and cover completely.</div>
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In the same bowl, combine the cream cheese, vanilla extract, and peanut butter until totally mix together. Add the eggs one at a time. Mixing after each egg. Add the melted butter and mix completely. Add the powdered sugar and mix thoroughly. Pour this mixture of the chip layer.</div>
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Bake for about 45-50 minutes. The mixture will be puffed up in the center when done. It will only jiggle slightly. Remove from the oven and let cool.</div>
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Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave on 50% power for a minute. Add the peanut butter. (MAYBE another 15-30 seconds if not totally melted). Stir stir stir. Spread the mixture over the top of the cream cheese layer. (Mine was still warm and made the frosting melt more) Perfect. </div>
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Once totally cooled or slightly chilled, cut into pieces and serve.</div>
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I believe everyone knows by now. </div>
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I LOVE all Chips.</div>
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When I was a kid, we used to eat them out of the bag.</div>
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This is the chocolate mix patted into the bottom of the pan</div>
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Chocolate and peanut butter chips</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wQk7bgpLfBjMKJ1mTl6lKVGLYuIXrn46nA3K0DxwZE-oS79tkbLvO_fPHCyBdupyrwkhPWvBXRAzdkaKzR7yLPKNMOMmocwmxajtLodHGJldQpxnaXAf4tXhB_nLvofFwjXlGlpU3mY/s1600/IMG_4718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wQk7bgpLfBjMKJ1mTl6lKVGLYuIXrn46nA3K0DxwZE-oS79tkbLvO_fPHCyBdupyrwkhPWvBXRAzdkaKzR7yLPKNMOMmocwmxajtLodHGJldQpxnaXAf4tXhB_nLvofFwjXlGlpU3mY/s1600/IMG_4718.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cream cheese mixture ready to pour over the chips</div>
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the bars are cooling and ready for frosting</div>
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This bar does benefit from frosting. </div>
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Finishes of the top layer</div>
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bites for display purposes only....</div>
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ALL I have to say.... mouthwateringly delicious....</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-1836014951373750342014-10-21T13:19:00.000-07:002014-10-21T13:19:21.049-07:006 and 12Yesterday was my weird "more than Normal" dysfunctional day. To begin with, it was Monday. How many people just my a bad sound about yesterday. I was a bright sunny day at our house. But it was just one of those days you actually never look forward to. In my family, the build up is <b>ALWAYS </b>so much worse. The sad thoughts and tears have already been shed. So Monday was sunny. I had decided to take a vacation, because in the past, I have not been friendly Shayla, it is just easier to be off. Less problems for everyone. So I ran, went to a Crossfit class. (find the right Crossfit place and your will love it) I am still going to yoga, just mixing things up.<br />
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SO, on with my ramblings. Yesterday was my twelve year wedding anniversary.<br />
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This was such a fun picture to take. We were just laughing and laughing. The photographer said we were smiling to much. We went to the train station and took these pictures. We were married on a Sunday afternoon, So there was almost no one at the train station.</div>
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My Husband gave me this beautiful bouquet of flowers. It was a bright, fall mix of flowers. It is always a way to my heart. We decided yesterday that the flowers needed to go to work. My kitties found them, and thought these would make a fabulous play toy. PICK, pick, pick, rub, brush by, and generally just touch all the flowers. So much fun. I actually have really enjoyed having them in my office today. My office smells fantastic. </div>
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How is it that a cat can photo bomb a picture. These brats have such a good life. I was really loving them from about midnight to 5:30 AM this morning. In bed, out of bed, running through the house, licking and then back in bed with you. </div>
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SO, yesterday was the six year anniversary of my Dad's passing. I missed him so much last week. I had already cried all my tears. His twin granddaughters turned 18 today. I think he would almost feel old. My Mom will turn 70 in a couple weeks and I turn 50 in the Spring. Time just marched on.</div>
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Monday was his favorite day of the week. It was a perfect day for working outside. Yard work or farming. Great day to get stuff accomplished. So, since I was off and everyone else was working, I had lunch with my Mom. She was good. We had a cocktail at lunch because we COULD. We both shed a couple of tears and then ordered lunch. There are so many other things going on, that sitting there feeling sad was just not right. A friend of my Moms showed up, and we continued to shoot the breeze. Loads of laughs. All was good.</div>
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For Dinner, my Husband and I went to <a href="http://bonefishgrill.com/" target="_blank">Bonefish Grill</a>. There are only 4 in the state of Illinois. We always go when we visit my Mom in FLA in the winter. It was very good, but the Florida ambiance just was not there. </div>
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Pear Martini and Bang bang shrimp</div>
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Delicious</div>
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I just love their Martinis. The Bang Bang Shrimp is always fantastic. My Husband had shrimp and scallops and I had fish. We discussed my day and all was good. My Husband announced that we were doing something right, because we still like to eat together. He really made me smile. We went home and had left over birthday cake from my nieces birthday party from Sunday. (DIET Blown out the Window.)</div>
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In the recent past, I have had cousins who lost their Dad, and friends who have lost loved ones. My Heart aches for them. I would like to tell them that they will get better, but it is WAY to early. My Dad always told us that there was always someone worse off than us. I miss my Dad, but I am very lucky and happy. </div>
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Thank you for reading this blog. I really appreciate people taking time out of their day to read my thoughts. If you know someone who is facing difficult days, lend them a hand. Drive them to the doctor, rake their leaves or just hold their hand and listen.....</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-87045710836783703572014-10-16T11:03:00.002-07:002014-10-16T11:03:54.180-07:00Lemon Pound CakeThe other day, I had a large Sweets job. Wonderful. Everything tasted fantastic and looked great. The customer was very happy. SO.... the next day I tackled my kitchen. OMG. I had ran the dishwasher, so I emptied that, put away the clean dishes in the sink. Wash the rest of the dishes and totally cleaned my kitchen. Countertops, cabinet fronts and the floors. WOW.. The kitchen was clean and no one was making a mess in there. .... Well except for me. This pound cake recipe was just calling my name. MAKE Me Please. I am Delicious and you love pound cake... So I slightly mess up my kitchen. I did clean it all up after I was done. There needed to be proof for my Husband when he came home...<br />
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There are a million pound cake recipes out there. This was an easy recipe and worth it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhBWPXRVe_dz9Bwc-HBcQhywzYOV-TLhdvYkdEjx2ciKf3uC7DbPXZpGnY1wUPJIsmYv97t9cDgTDS2aEtRIXX9fO-mjNR1wBRBYVHPJEQ-jABfTyr5oLIbuwbv6HxSOGcOjrTkKdCoEI/s1600/IMG_4674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhBWPXRVe_dz9Bwc-HBcQhywzYOV-TLhdvYkdEjx2ciKf3uC7DbPXZpGnY1wUPJIsmYv97t9cDgTDS2aEtRIXX9fO-mjNR1wBRBYVHPJEQ-jABfTyr5oLIbuwbv6HxSOGcOjrTkKdCoEI/s1600/IMG_4674.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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But this little hot gem, screamed MAKE ME. </div>
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I am glad I did. YUMMY..</div>
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<b>Lemon Pound Cake</b><br />
slightly modified from <a href="http://afamilyfeast.com/">afamilyfeast.com</a><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened<br />
1/2 cup granulated sugar<br />
3 large eggs<br />
3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
1 1/3 cups all purpose flour<br />
1 teaspoon baking powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
1 tablespoon lemon zest<br />
1 teaspoon lemon juice<br />
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Directions<br />
Preheat oven to <b>325 degrees. </b><br />
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Spray an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch loaf pan with cooking spray. Set aside<br />
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In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and salt. (I had a brain fart, and sifted into my wet ingredients) JUST MAKE SURE you Sift.<br />
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In the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugar on a high speed for 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each one until totally blended. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to butter mixture until completely combined. Scrape down the sides.<br />
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On a low speed, slowly add in the dry ingredients until well combined. Scrape down the sides again<br />
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Add in Lemon zest and Lemon juice until just combined.<br />
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Pour batter into prepared pan Bake for 60-65 minutes. Top should be golden brown. Check if done with a toothpick. Cool in pan for 10 minutes and then turn out until a wire rack to cool completely.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEhIEVd4W0rAzLXtn18kYrYJyDVBGJTRORzikoPUmvQaBM_NFKJw9RefpnzwAoYDOYjB7qCIIEN7UhVDIjFNyvkHeNNtNm_ujxUnVG7KcvsdDHyUEuFCcvlGC800ePirKoi5lWx09IoYs/s1600/IMG_4661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEhIEVd4W0rAzLXtn18kYrYJyDVBGJTRORzikoPUmvQaBM_NFKJw9RefpnzwAoYDOYjB7qCIIEN7UhVDIjFNyvkHeNNtNm_ujxUnVG7KcvsdDHyUEuFCcvlGC800ePirKoi5lWx09IoYs/s1600/IMG_4661.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Halloween decorations are out, a little kitty </div>
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found this scary orange spider. </div>
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She had loads of fun playing with it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_6CN40cxeLgX4eD-CuKcLca8g5yyGQso0GwmkHjFcYMXrYAoPdFMsX_aKD9HdKZzpyIBPf09daHBUk19kuL_qFu2EDCUyZiSYVAiGeXdzGcrRIhu8MHjBifnVj7cJLxGpeVwqb897cA/s1600/IMG_4663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_6CN40cxeLgX4eD-CuKcLca8g5yyGQso0GwmkHjFcYMXrYAoPdFMsX_aKD9HdKZzpyIBPf09daHBUk19kuL_qFu2EDCUyZiSYVAiGeXdzGcrRIhu8MHjBifnVj7cJLxGpeVwqb897cA/s1600/IMG_4663.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Fresh lemon zest, and soon, fresh lemon juice</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi17MZpBwxrUFIKvNRhMhMACNY3tGEyo8b0ve0bxWukDqBMZRb0omZ7301hLZhp6mbeN_gFr7ILV70Oj5RiylnAVx7Gb7vP3Tcb0Z3r2v6ftbeqSzk6ZbBlRBF8qow63JbvK49uF6L-IQ8/s1600/IMG_4666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi17MZpBwxrUFIKvNRhMhMACNY3tGEyo8b0ve0bxWukDqBMZRb0omZ7301hLZhp6mbeN_gFr7ILV70Oj5RiylnAVx7Gb7vP3Tcb0Z3r2v6ftbeqSzk6ZbBlRBF8qow63JbvK49uF6L-IQ8/s1600/IMG_4666.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sifting the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_VFpToVgXkF8nHmd5kvfmixvizhY2mJ2iWMpmaU7m4v-2lwwT_zDpgzuaalLSnh0xvJbI0vutqJqYueBDqAHbH4jZcU1wwJGPoWBxgF7LH6GdzluJDMw41yxt7ojg73PWGj3dh_AehY/s1600/IMG_4667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_VFpToVgXkF8nHmd5kvfmixvizhY2mJ2iWMpmaU7m4v-2lwwT_zDpgzuaalLSnh0xvJbI0vutqJqYueBDqAHbH4jZcU1wwJGPoWBxgF7LH6GdzluJDMw41yxt7ojg73PWGj3dh_AehY/s1600/IMG_4667.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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A nice pan of batter. A perfect size for a pound cake</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRsZRAaH2bpmEsU_d92kt1vLw2yCvQln_eLLJPPlIbHJvmKPDmNPY__tF7WUiggfpNH-LjgrVHNGsCr12R1pvfQ9eJsrQ8f7HXVw-89vRVrOlE5I8wKJFdvVqhQLWV1c61QtHW-ucjgA/s1600/IMG_4668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRsZRAaH2bpmEsU_d92kt1vLw2yCvQln_eLLJPPlIbHJvmKPDmNPY__tF7WUiggfpNH-LjgrVHNGsCr12R1pvfQ9eJsrQ8f7HXVw-89vRVrOlE5I8wKJFdvVqhQLWV1c61QtHW-ucjgA/s1600/IMG_4668.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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The new dishes in the sink</div>
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They never seem to end</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5v41eGJcZI8J4fBK16ACAACGYLqlznq3zMG-uIHjEg2Cki_6bQsDzoJOnzVPauXxVqhN-lvITKmLgzGzLdDOqukeQb3IQ-WVW8pEZUheUpmGYVcQutJMz77bbW13IU8pRtvGKzQvH-8w/s1600/IMG_4669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5v41eGJcZI8J4fBK16ACAACGYLqlznq3zMG-uIHjEg2Cki_6bQsDzoJOnzVPauXxVqhN-lvITKmLgzGzLdDOqukeQb3IQ-WVW8pEZUheUpmGYVcQutJMz77bbW13IU8pRtvGKzQvH-8w/s1600/IMG_4669.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Look at that lovely color of Golden Brown</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge3zZ7k9sDFJ9QSc_lcCHxeArtLOB6BdCL_DD-clEWJWNuc9Y82hgGbJPS9EhhpKWdTgI3eEgwtime8zHd4dl_WALjOoVi8HsER-sfEVQqD1ju8TrLmnq_bNgXDfYwMCVh0drygGCrblM/s1600/IMG_4670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge3zZ7k9sDFJ9QSc_lcCHxeArtLOB6BdCL_DD-clEWJWNuc9Y82hgGbJPS9EhhpKWdTgI3eEgwtime8zHd4dl_WALjOoVi8HsER-sfEVQqD1ju8TrLmnq_bNgXDfYwMCVh0drygGCrblM/s1600/IMG_4670.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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I really need to get a hobby.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbd8uTng2OBCY9XKQSK8SoHeCYL5Xwf-7rpF6ZqN3WJsGLfP17BIDzgyQHJ-QbJ5CMftHtpPRJN_3H0_Kh_N5Cv4zbTBnSLuMsyFoxsDpDesZDB_QFl6qxDp-qvLe98KZ-oIj8wro2gRQ/s1600/IMG_4672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbd8uTng2OBCY9XKQSK8SoHeCYL5Xwf-7rpF6ZqN3WJsGLfP17BIDzgyQHJ-QbJ5CMftHtpPRJN_3H0_Kh_N5Cv4zbTBnSLuMsyFoxsDpDesZDB_QFl6qxDp-qvLe98KZ-oIj8wro2gRQ/s1600/IMG_4672.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Look at that cake. </div>
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Texture is perfect, Moist and delicious</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfsizfPTQ_GvultaIRU_p48bhzB4bssPrt7NWcu4BOchd73r4rXMjNDtWZ28dCijcWS2bBFUvOxM8KeehdpbU5SXAUh1jEalSD08nDLQjhi72qSWaxmppWSadzPkjsg8LIbQhbKr2VRE/s1600/IMG_4673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfsizfPTQ_GvultaIRU_p48bhzB4bssPrt7NWcu4BOchd73r4rXMjNDtWZ28dCijcWS2bBFUvOxM8KeehdpbU5SXAUh1jEalSD08nDLQjhi72qSWaxmppWSadzPkjsg8LIbQhbKr2VRE/s1600/IMG_4673.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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I had to take a bite for the photo opportunity. </div>
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ACTUALLY, I ate both of these pieces and another on. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazKRBYFbSeHjSpYEgIH4ajavklEa5MAASe_ROp_PoL_0aKnLvV3hix54DAIsb5GNWlr25DiOvmsp6uYv8lrhnKLjfieC27qbUH3NtbwS4abll0V1L-OlYqSlYXELU0wJJuIAA_22l__Q/s1600/IMG_4677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazKRBYFbSeHjSpYEgIH4ajavklEa5MAASe_ROp_PoL_0aKnLvV3hix54DAIsb5GNWlr25DiOvmsp6uYv8lrhnKLjfieC27qbUH3NtbwS4abll0V1L-OlYqSlYXELU0wJJuIAA_22l__Q/s1600/IMG_4677.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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DAY time photography. There are several differences</div>
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between natural and evening light.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-52420961442073917302014-10-10T11:58:00.000-07:002014-10-10T11:58:49.973-07:00Magic Bar CookiesWOW... Have you ever eating a Magic Cookie Bar? aka Dream Bars or Seven Layer Bars or Calorie Buster Bars. Well, in my life I have eaten many. Maybe even a half pan. That point where you may throw up but only wish you did.... Who am I kidding, I have eaten most of the ingredients first, made the bars, burned my mouth, since they were to hot. AND then eaten half of the pan.<br />
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I know there are people out there that would say, "they are just to Sweet," NOT ME. The combination of graham crackers, different chips, coconut, nuts and sweetened condensed milk. OMG. who died and let me go to Heaven.... The beauty of Magic Cookie Bars, if you were shy on ingredients of something, you could always punt, the absolutely beauty of a dump recipe. AGAIN, why people should bake.<br />
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So, one day last week, surfing the internet for MORE recipes, I came across this recipe. <b>Magic Bar Cookies. </b>Why could the world not be a better place without another cookie recipe of a bar. Life is good for the most part. THE only difference is that there is no sweetened condensed milk. But there is everything else. I really liked these cookies. AND I hope you make them and let me know what you think.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHDjvExxWaDJVW3T_z9E6u_8Tuu6EXkRHwkIw0JAA0Nuim73dKQigJWUt6VVfxdcStkXj_OLdIDvgVALBBIO5tWUFjTyT8JYuipUs060pfshRnIaWZoGqAC_JmAPdWqVHAwKa7UrCAFo/s1600/IMG_4637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHDjvExxWaDJVW3T_z9E6u_8Tuu6EXkRHwkIw0JAA0Nuim73dKQigJWUt6VVfxdcStkXj_OLdIDvgVALBBIO5tWUFjTyT8JYuipUs060pfshRnIaWZoGqAC_JmAPdWqVHAwKa7UrCAFo/s1600/IMG_4637.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Don't these just look delightful. </div>
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AND let me tell you, they are amazing</div>
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Morsels of Heavenly flavors all together</div>
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<b>Magic Cookie Bars</b></div>
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gently modified from <a href="http://ericasweettooth.com/">Ericasweettooth.com</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
also from Averie Cooks </div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3/4 cup of butter, room temperature</div>
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3/4 cup of brown sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1/4 cup of granulated sugar</div>
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1 large egg</div>
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract</div>
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1 1/2 cups all purpose flour</div>
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2 teaspoons cornstarch</div>
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1 teaspoon baking soda</div>
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1 teaspoon salt</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 cup roughly chopped graham crackers</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 cup butterscotch chips</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 cup shredded coconut</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts (optional)</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cookie sheet with Silpat or parchment paper. Set aside</div>
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In a bowl of a mixer with a paddle attachment, beat together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. About 2-3 minutes. Add egg and vanilla and mix until smooth.</div>
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Add flour, cornstarch, baking soda and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix very slowly until dry ingredients are just incorporated. BY HAND, add in Graham Crackers, both Chips, Coconut and Nuts (optional). Everything should be incorporated in. <b>You may or may chill the dough.</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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I use my small cookie scoop, and place cookie on sheet about 2" apart. Bake for 8-9 minutes, until ever so lightly brown on the edges. When you remove them from the oven, use the back of a spatula and gently press down on each cookie. Allow cookies to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio0e8q3h77FXeG92ukP-LLTKdTJYWkRi4Ap4Jnz2NCYXRUh5kj2Y6hLKVwPOzcr_9hWoItUqWXJo_i0Hy80_56ZJytY6BtvcUZCXIcKUTiKh4D9kT7b8GZAPp798OwBB_NmlbG9o5_Oj8/s1600/IMG_4630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio0e8q3h77FXeG92ukP-LLTKdTJYWkRi4Ap4Jnz2NCYXRUh5kj2Y6hLKVwPOzcr_9hWoItUqWXJo_i0Hy80_56ZJytY6BtvcUZCXIcKUTiKh4D9kT7b8GZAPp798OwBB_NmlbG9o5_Oj8/s1600/IMG_4630.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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These ingredients make for a flavorful cookie</div>
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You do not want to know how many of these I ate. </div>
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I really wish I still had the metabolism of a teenager. </div>
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EAT me Please.... this is why I keep my chips in the freezer</div>
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I added my ingredients first. Just a brain fart</div>
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Please mix the crackers, chips, coconut and nuts by hand</div>
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Pretty and perfect cookies ready to be baked</div>
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Just out of the oven and gently flattened</div>
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WHY are you photographing ME, just eat them..</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-11490876317634144342014-09-30T08:40:00.000-07:002014-09-30T08:40:24.539-07:00Gooey Pumpkin BarsHoly Fall... where did my Summer go.... started on Wednesday the 24th.<br />
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This blog was going to be finished on Thursday, but that did not happened. I took Friday as a vacation day, to get some stuff and go boating with my husband. I ran and went to yoga, got just a few things done. We did go boating, it was about 83 degrees and just beautiful. We had an absolutely wonderful day.<br />
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This is my cocktail on the back end of the boat. </div>
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I did not go into the water and neither did the cocktail,<br />
To cold for me, but the sun felt fabulous</div>
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My Coconut Ginger Fizz</div>
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Makes 2 drinks</div>
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2 shots of coconut vodka</div>
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1 bottle of Sobe Coconut Life water</div>
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1 can of Schweppes Diet Ginger Ale</div>
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ice.</div>
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Add all ingredients together, stir, and pour over ice into 2 nice size glasses. </div>
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The Only calories are from the Vodka. Light and Refreshing. </div>
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The perfect summer - Early fall drink</div>
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I made I pan of these pumpkin bars for 2 events. This base is similar to a prior blog (12/13/13 ).This is an easy recipe, any novice baker can whip these up. You could cut this recipe in half if you wanted to. I made the full pan, and everyone devoured them. The first tastes of Fall are always the funnest. </div>
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I pulled out one of my Fall dishes. </div>
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Always trying to improve my photo skills. </div>
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There is room for loads of improvement<br />
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<b>Gooey Pumpkin Bars</b><br />
modified from <a href="http://pickypalate.com/">pickypalate.com</a><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
1 box Yellow cake mix<br />
2 large eggs<br />
8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, solftened<br />
15 ounce can pumpkin puree<br />
8 ounces marshmallow creme<br />
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk<br />
1 large egg<br />
1/2 cup cinnamon chips<br />
1/2 cup pecans, chopped<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 x 13 baking pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.<br />
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Place cake mix, eggs, butter into large bowl with a paddle attachment. Mix until well combined. This will be like thick cookie dough. Place dough into pan. Spray your hands with cooking spray and smash down the dough. Cover the entire bottom of the pan.<br />
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Place pumpkin puree, marshmallow creme, and condensed milk into mixing bowl. Blend until fully incorporated. Pour over the entire crust. Gently drop the cinnamon chips all over the pumpkin mixture. Then place the pecans over the chips. Place in the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. Center will be somewhat soft, but will set up while it cools<br />
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Let cool completely and serve. EAT up my Fall Friends</div>
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There is 1 egg not photographed.</div>
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It went all rogue on me and ended up on the floor. Augh.</div>
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I love Cinnamon chips. . I could really eat the whole bag.</div>
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I would allow myself one at a time. Otherwise, I would have </div>
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needed another bag... I keep my chips in the freezer,<br />
they really last a long time in there. Cost effective</div>
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The cake, 2 eggs and softened butter<br />
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The pumpkin batter and then the cinnamon chips<br />
There are small lumps of marshmallow creme throughout</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmHXpfdhKvKi7v5krP7LcV89Cgdfg_3COG9MiFHxI85RUN22-bWTadncsJxbIkBLvz2taNLLi9mgopJ6i_bEx6OLPCPxCTpMWoLLqHdkS6fz4U7dTmmPwgl2zlpGT8h4cJTI1SzSX2q4/s1600/IMG_4609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmHXpfdhKvKi7v5krP7LcV89Cgdfg_3COG9MiFHxI85RUN22-bWTadncsJxbIkBLvz2taNLLi9mgopJ6i_bEx6OLPCPxCTpMWoLLqHdkS6fz4U7dTmmPwgl2zlpGT8h4cJTI1SzSX2q4/s1600/IMG_4609.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Chopped pecans and ready for the oven<br />
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Baked for 55 minutes.<br />
These are deep size pieces. If you went with a<br />
10x14 pan. I would think 45 minutes would be enough time</div>
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Delicious and heavenly pieces of Fall goodness. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-18703227035306927972014-09-05T11:40:00.000-07:002014-09-05T11:40:00.957-07:00German Chocolate Cheesecake Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My next door neighbor made a request. She loves German Chocolate Cake and wanted it for her birthday cake. HELLO, so does most of my family. My baby sister has it every year for her birthday cake. My Mom has always made this cake forever. The melding of the brown sugar, pecans and coconut with the chocolate cake. Heavenly. So, I stumbled upon this delightful recipe. Combine German Chocolate cake with Cheesecake... WOW .. is it. This cake was just amazing. TOTALLY kicking it up a notch. My neighbor and her family thought it was delicious. My Husband stated that it was perfectly delicious and not to change a thing. Please make again.</div>
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Layers of amazing flavors that melt in your mouth</div>
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(improved photo skills)</div>
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NOTE: if you put this into 2 8" cake pans, shorten your cook time. You should have enough frosting to cover both layers, but not the sides.</div>
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This recipe does have a few steps. Please do not let that stop you. It is really very easy and does not take a long time. It is well worth the effort. This recipe call for a box cake. I amp up my box cakes, so you can either follow my recipe for the cake or make your own chocolate cake. When I made this cake, I was cutting my time short, (excuse) but homemade cake has less preservatives. DO what you want.</div>
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<b>German Chocolate Cheesecake Cake</b></div>
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adapted from <a href="http://mommyskitchen.net/">mommyskitchen.net</a></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Cake</b></div>
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1 dark chocolate cake mix</div>
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1 small package chocolate pudding (cook & serve)</div>
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3 eggs </div>
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1/2 cup oil</div>
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1 1/2 cups milk</div>
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3/4 cup yogurt, plain or vanilla</div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div>
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<b>Cream Cheese Filling</b></div>
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1 1/2 cups granulated sugar</div>
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2 8-oz packages cream cheese, softened</div>
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4 eggs </div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div>
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<b>Coconut Pecan Frosting</b></div>
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1 12 oz can evaporated milk</div>
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1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, cubed</div>
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3 egg yolks, slightly beaten</div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div>
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2 1/2 cups flaked coconut</div>
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1 1/ cups chopped pecans</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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Set oven to 325 degrees. Line a 9x13 pan with tin foil. Spray pan with cooking spray. Set aside</div>
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Into a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, place all cake ingredients into bowl. Beat for 2-3 minutes. Pour half of the cake batter into prepared pan. Place remaining cake batter into another bowl and set aside.</div>
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Into the mixing bowl, add the sugar and softened cream cheese. Beat until smooth. Add eggs one at a time and mix until incorporated. Gently pour the cream cheese mixture of the cake batter. Try to cover the whole surface of the cake mixture. </div>
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Spoon remaining cake batter over the cream cheese mixture. Spread to the edge of the baking pan. Bake for 65 - 70 minutes. OR until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. (NOTE: REALLY cook this long)</div>
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Cool cake for at least a half hour - 1 hour before removing from pan.</div>
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While your cake is baking, in a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, butter and egg yolks. Continue to stir and cook. This probably took at least 15-20 minutes to cook and thicken up. Your thermometer should read 180 degrees. Needs to be thick enough to coat the back of a metal spoon.</div>
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Remove from the heat. Stir in vanilla extract, fold in coconut and pecans. Cool until frosting reaches spreading consistency. </div>
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Frost your cake. Refrigerate any leftovers. This cake can be made a day in advance.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP247TCdsjNhAroEQ6JGAOWNPYDydU7mx5YYaIO7s_Wk5vy3Ba9_HFsSm5dJEqNmR3w6Zl1PqZn1RVhG5YaihSdkbQFMj3iW3wfEhe22MppCPnRsh5Gp-83SDtFH4Lm1t6oIUJKtdDXYg/s1600/IMG_4550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP247TCdsjNhAroEQ6JGAOWNPYDydU7mx5YYaIO7s_Wk5vy3Ba9_HFsSm5dJEqNmR3w6Zl1PqZn1RVhG5YaihSdkbQFMj3iW3wfEhe22MppCPnRsh5Gp-83SDtFH4Lm1t6oIUJKtdDXYg/s1600/IMG_4550.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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All the ingredients needed for this dessert</div>
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(THE OIL was not pictured) sorry</div>
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The ingredients for the cake</div>
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A very FULL bowl. remaining half of the cake</div>
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eggs, sugar, vanilla extract and cream cheese for the cream cheese mixture</div>
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Gently poured over the cake batter</div>
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Drizzling the remaining cake batter</div>
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Ingredients for the frosting</div>
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I first measured out the evaporated milk, but used the entire can</div>
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Stirring away... I had forgotten that homemade does take some time</div>
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My old wooden smasher. I have had this tool for a long time</div>
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Folding in the pecans and coconut</div>
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Gently removed the cake from the pan. </div>
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Starting to frost</div>
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I used an offset spatula for a smooth surface</div>
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Heavenly layers of deliciousness</div>
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YES, I ate both of these pieces. OMG, </div>
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Just so good. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-61802561385755520402014-08-29T20:13:00.000-07:002014-08-30T05:35:14.838-07:00Kitties and Summer<div style="text-align: left;">
Where have I been... well basically just in my kitchen. I have baked lots of cakes and cookies<br />
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My Kitties have had some wild summer adventures. We will start with Smokey. Smokey started becoming a big girl. We waited about 2-3 months to long. She would howl and cry. WOW, scared all of us and herself. Once she healed, the hormones started to mellow out. That will never happen again to any other cats. She has gotten acclimated to wearing a harness outside. She does not totally dig it, but if she wants to go outside on it goes. There was also the evening where she did not have it on, ahhh what a rascal. She can be a total challenge to catch when she wants to stay outside. I spent over a half hour trying to catch her. She did sleep all night that evening.<br />
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Smokey is still afraid of people. If someone comes over, she will still hide. Usually in the basement. She has a comfy perch where she can hide or just watch you fold the laundry. When Smokey is outside, the noise from people is less scaring her. Smokey is a talker. Her makings are just beautiful.<br />
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She is such a beauty.</div>
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Smokey loves to play with your feet. Nibbling..</div>
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I am skipping to Apple Jax. The Princess of the house. She always wants to go outside, but only on her terms. She will claw on the screen and whine, but not let you catch her. Such the DIVA. Once you get a hold of her, a bit of a yowl, and out she goes. She is usually the last one to come in.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-taC7iKKsksC67U6Bizs0E5pgyY1Fl-NkcoBVH8XPHS3ecCljIK-5J3GiUhIfOwG2OFrk72Mipb_Pek9I-O_EX1OW2M9H-BbSnurQgtLiQjceMkift2JDH5XZg65W6chdZVVXIr_0sAs/s1600/IMAG1030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-taC7iKKsksC67U6Bizs0E5pgyY1Fl-NkcoBVH8XPHS3ecCljIK-5J3GiUhIfOwG2OFrk72Mipb_Pek9I-O_EX1OW2M9H-BbSnurQgtLiQjceMkift2JDH5XZg65W6chdZVVXIr_0sAs/s1600/IMAG1030.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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Apple Jax is such a princess</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSvmOdfZismLCP1lP2qcriJxXOep0PgExUJ-s30Ik6Qwrj44Naem29owDFZhFw-VsnC6FZ_fVTbIC9h5ftjD3Ke5gfi3vGp5KgiPoqRAiuI6bdCVyamoi8V0Z6xtp9A3qtr2pMSss6Sg0/s1600/IMAG1029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSvmOdfZismLCP1lP2qcriJxXOep0PgExUJ-s30Ik6Qwrj44Naem29owDFZhFw-VsnC6FZ_fVTbIC9h5ftjD3Ke5gfi3vGp5KgiPoqRAiuI6bdCVyamoi8V0Z6xtp9A3qtr2pMSss6Sg0/s1600/IMAG1029.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was laying on my stomach taking pictures of cats.</div>
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I am 1 crazy girl, who loves her cats</div>
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Apple Jax has come around so much this summer. She hangs out with the rest of the cats. Apple is still slightly anti social. She wants to be loved, and I love giving her love. We sleep together regularly.<br />
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Black Cherry.... Well he has had quite the summer.<br />
He was chased up a tree by a stray dog early in the summer. My neighbor and I held the 12 foot ladder while my husband climbed up and tried to reach the cat. CAT crying, husband not happy. Black Cherry stayed inside for a few days. Very afraid of being outside. About 2 weeks later, he scooted outside and no one noticed. He spent the entire night outside. The next morning he was sitting on the front porch. Smokey was sitting by the front window, crying for Black Cherry. Husband opened the door, and in ran the cat. He did not have on a collar. We found the collar near a tree in the front yard the next day. Blasted cat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDbYumB4YZTmFPq6HeF6tdhFn98ZWS0hE_iDxdyWQtkhCuFyYRYMpjRKs7EYyzP5x45NT9INn7x5lKw8j70oelaYUQBUa8pOJy-CCB-q4EDccxCvj_HStVociNouJbjQ-LPXgTEf3cH4/s1600/IMAG1042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDbYumB4YZTmFPq6HeF6tdhFn98ZWS0hE_iDxdyWQtkhCuFyYRYMpjRKs7EYyzP5x45NT9INn7x5lKw8j70oelaYUQBUa8pOJy-CCB-q4EDccxCvj_HStVociNouJbjQ-LPXgTEf3cH4/s1600/IMAG1042.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lazy boy</div>
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I love my Black Cherry. He is such a typical male. Needy, a bit whiny and demanding of love. AND really not all that smart. SO, 2 weeks ago, Black Cherry got out again. It was dark outside and he can be hard to see. My Husband asked me to help look for the cat. We start looking for him, and we hear a howling noise. The cat on on my neighbors porch roof. We have NO idea how he got up there. We believe he was being chased and he ran up the arborevite.<br />
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Again my Husband pulled out the 12 foot ladder, and grabbed the cat. Ahh, Black Cherry, you crazy kitty. Last Sunday, my husband was grilling, all the cats were outside, and Black Cherry was playing with a wasp. The wasp sort of won. All of a sudden, a loud howl came from Black Cherry and he was limping. Stung his paw. We removed the stinger and killed the insect. He was ok. He still wants to go outside, but he never stays out long. You need to sit outside with him. He gets anxious and wants to go inside...<br />
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As we celebrate Labor Day Weekend, the unofficial END of Summer, please still consider your pets welfare. It still gets hot outside, watch for animals in closed vehicles. Watch for animals as you are out and about. They all need care. Have a safe holiday...</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-86544358170670843662014-08-19T14:13:00.002-07:002014-08-29T18:50:03.579-07:00Cherry Almond Overnight OatsI should start the blog with a "goodnight". When I am done making this delicious breakfast at 12:30 at night, I am going to bed. The ready to eat pictures are my "good morning." Overnight Oats are delicious and so freaking easy. Throw away, in fact, DO NOT even buy that sugary over processed oatmeal packets. They are only a teensy bit easier than overnight. BUT.............. overnight oats are a 1000 times better. They are still real. So if you have fallen off your wagon, and need to hop on, this breakfast or snack will totally fill you up. There are prior posts about overnight oats, they are so healthy and filling. You will stay full until lunch. No vending machine breaks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo502_E0-mc3PZgQOlGZ-bsflMKuGPENWcc_BDm251zcKCisHjIN_9dm7Rbn9nuvskVFxtsALiYzCjRTmGbeYRyGjv4fJNdGkibSu49QI5WLhZPl1jErlVmo_9warpVO-o1bNsdvAXf0Q/s1600/IMG_4524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo502_E0-mc3PZgQOlGZ-bsflMKuGPENWcc_BDm251zcKCisHjIN_9dm7Rbn9nuvskVFxtsALiYzCjRTmGbeYRyGjv4fJNdGkibSu49QI5WLhZPl1jErlVmo_9warpVO-o1bNsdvAXf0Q/s1600/IMG_4524.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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Good morning KIDS. </div>
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I just went for a 4 mile run and I am sweaty. </div>
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Pictures of the start to a great day.</div>
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WELL.... I am going to my day job. OK good day.</div>
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Just a disclaimer: Overnight oats can be heated up. I like them cold, but I think if I needed something warm inside me, these would be perfect.</div>
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<b>Cherry Almond Overnight Oats</b></div>
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adapted from <a href="http://thecrepesofwrath.com/">thecrepesofwrath.com</a></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 cup old fashioned oats</div>
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1 cup or 1 1/2 cups almond milk</div>
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1/2 cup dried cherries</div>
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1/4 cup slivered almonds</div>
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1 tablespoon chai seeds</div>
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon</div>
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1 tablespoon Goji Berries</div>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
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Layer in a glass, jar or container with lid. mix together. cover and refrigerate overnight.</div>
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In the morning, thoroughly stir, eat cold or warm up. Drizzle with honey if you want.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UIQxNORG54v0Jad2jtgn2h8W4m_ChF1Jp3mVRdV2732nt6FxyWf6__e2pOnquWTQQSJIbgvFmzykU3sZKwpKm0xMvXY56MBgWyygISfcHuD7afbW6FnUy-Uece7h1O4CFRFQuAEogXQ/s1600/IMG_4507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UIQxNORG54v0Jad2jtgn2h8W4m_ChF1Jp3mVRdV2732nt6FxyWf6__e2pOnquWTQQSJIbgvFmzykU3sZKwpKm0xMvXY56MBgWyygISfcHuD7afbW6FnUy-Uece7h1O4CFRFQuAEogXQ/s1600/IMG_4507.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just a few basic ingredients for something wonderful</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ir7J52UEpEOk95FVEy5XcdN2rVeXpxYpaBQ-icAg1Gomi4EJJOMjCJQTGzJhNgsCLJmun8Ym5AtEF0eQ3x1v_JAuJ9-_3_Ni6MD8AnNvUUixYoZeKnOnBzZHHJDCCcH_g1zXjhVmDvs/s1600/IMG_4511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ir7J52UEpEOk95FVEy5XcdN2rVeXpxYpaBQ-icAg1Gomi4EJJOMjCJQTGzJhNgsCLJmun8Ym5AtEF0eQ3x1v_JAuJ9-_3_Ni6MD8AnNvUUixYoZeKnOnBzZHHJDCCcH_g1zXjhVmDvs/s1600/IMG_4511.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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Goji Berries are so good for you. </div>
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They deserved a separate shot</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlCHTjqOuQMc6pnVjd__Nym0CnkHHFgROVvV64iGUd_ZLuszRN3rCl99JSek8PgnBW7avsPM9DDXjncRytqNO4A4cwkn3dks1OtdSSqNzNrtVynRwKiUc_8JoUBELlc7prOtQuNmJTMdw/s1600/IMG_4509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlCHTjqOuQMc6pnVjd__Nym0CnkHHFgROVvV64iGUd_ZLuszRN3rCl99JSek8PgnBW7avsPM9DDXjncRytqNO4A4cwkn3dks1OtdSSqNzNrtVynRwKiUc_8JoUBELlc7prOtQuNmJTMdw/s1600/IMG_4509.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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Start by layering in all the ingredients</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToRHF23vo-yizSNmVxxDxG6QWuve6ralhSzL9ROpXFpBlFdRlPcBxKfRZOfoHg9HikTbq7fyEZ-T6s-k5-AAJLhlJn87ENAX1ouUbCJnvN0I5u6WfX1HQ8yGDSS31LEOrldoQF1fmp0Y/s1600/IMG_4513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToRHF23vo-yizSNmVxxDxG6QWuve6ralhSzL9ROpXFpBlFdRlPcBxKfRZOfoHg9HikTbq7fyEZ-T6s-k5-AAJLhlJn87ENAX1ouUbCJnvN0I5u6WfX1HQ8yGDSS31LEOrldoQF1fmp0Y/s1600/IMG_4513.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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Once everything is added, stir well and put in the frig</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdn9mWB8VsqWxmm3AxNPO3dip0n4hdu1tD98AcBvyE5TxRi1TdfNL8SveQPuJvQ-ajfIcA3zkYxAkr-PSCZCItk3_d6jaEp73KpHqjbbLZXgX-divlomUNa3RdcpAyBuDQwL9NPHLbqY/s1600/IMG_4526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdn9mWB8VsqWxmm3AxNPO3dip0n4hdu1tD98AcBvyE5TxRi1TdfNL8SveQPuJvQ-ajfIcA3zkYxAkr-PSCZCItk3_d6jaEp73KpHqjbbLZXgX-divlomUNa3RdcpAyBuDQwL9NPHLbqY/s1600/IMG_4526.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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Good morning, you should really taste this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg886obmJ3ZJiuE44QLBlOFDhSw7zfph4_hYzKpJD_F8ZDd-VeQ_CK9DLB3n9WdnMjprG38vrcTksRsuGGPhyM03kNl2iZLMJxiFi_-7chnOijoAgtIRY6Ye3ysSJEJMHxhbRiDjDpdkoo/s1600/IMG_4528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg886obmJ3ZJiuE44QLBlOFDhSw7zfph4_hYzKpJD_F8ZDd-VeQ_CK9DLB3n9WdnMjprG38vrcTksRsuGGPhyM03kNl2iZLMJxiFi_-7chnOijoAgtIRY6Ye3ysSJEJMHxhbRiDjDpdkoo/s1600/IMG_4528.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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This is how Oatmeal should be. </div>
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This is not fattening, loaded with fiber and other goodness.</div>
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Let me know what you think. I really love it.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-29786927588569284662014-07-24T12:37:00.001-07:002014-07-24T12:37:45.099-07:00Happy 70th birthday. Today my Dad would have been 70, if he was still alive. His last birthday was at the young age of 64. I am totally out of sorts today. A bit bitchy, teary, and just not with it. My Mother always celebrated birthdays, but milestone birthdays were a big event. I remember my Dad's 30th birthday party. I remember him sleeping in a lawn chair towards the end of the night. His 50th birthday party was an extravaganza. His 2 brothers came into town from out of state. That was a very fun party for his kids. I believe one of his kids may have slept in a lawn chair that night. The 60th party was at my house. At the best of our abilities, we tried to surprise him. NO one slept in a lawn chair that night. We did have a good time. We laughed about how old we had all gotten.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR1k9FWJymGoRMj4KDwih71848M6KTDjyMNxpGxC9W-4Md6ltXK9wC6M9FzgH-TenTSX6n8mdxg3S8lgTQewK0aHV0MhhWEIr6ABmHqvAKaL6oy4RXyFh28N0xD58lc5f_wvtcnFhr2fI/s1600/IMG_2191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR1k9FWJymGoRMj4KDwih71848M6KTDjyMNxpGxC9W-4Md6ltXK9wC6M9FzgH-TenTSX6n8mdxg3S8lgTQewK0aHV0MhhWEIr6ABmHqvAKaL6oy4RXyFh28N0xD58lc5f_wvtcnFhr2fI/s1600/IMG_2191.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Today is a beautiful day. Mid 70's and sunny. Actually kind of cool for the end of July. He would have said it was an excellent day for working. Even on his birthday. He would have kicked it into gear & got a lot done.</div>
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So, Sweets by Shayla has been baking up a storm. I did a 300 person wedding last weekend. Cupcakes and Treat trays. It was a tremendous amount of work, but when I was done, I was happy. No second guessing. The bride was also very pleased. And that is the most important person. </div>
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My sister and her family from FLA are in town for a week. We are going to do our own partying and hanging out. We all think about my Dad in so many different ways and have our own special memories. </div>
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My Dad was such a good dad. He had his rules, and they had little bend. BUT everything else in life was fair game. Did he shake his head at us??? YES... Wonder what the Hell we were doing??? YES.. but he totally love us. I am grateful in life for my Dad... AND MOM. They have taught us many differ things. </div>
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Be grateful for what you have, and someone always is worse off than you. WORDS of Wisdom.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991235421444535596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6794827076511292176.post-7258382498183757272014-07-10T13:52:00.001-07:002014-07-10T13:52:22.452-07:00Green Peachy CleanseI am still drinking my green drinks, but I am starting to modify them. Granny Smith apple are a bit out of season and getting very expensive. SO.... move on to summer fruit. I can remember last winter (who could forget a Polar vortex), coming across recipes with summer fruits and melons. They are all my favorites, so let us commence with the summer recipes.<br />
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This recipe still has a green apple in it, but today was the last of the apples. It also contains a peach. I made this recipe twice, once with spinach and once without. (Believe it or not, the grocery shopper sometimes forgets her spinach.) Without the spinach, the color was slightly orange. With the spinach, all GREEN.<br />
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The peach gave the drink a bit of thickness. Full flavor. All the things I love<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jBaTTWfmx_wHpjqoAhZvcl9zj-Ey9MQNA7pus_29QjAQNReNGesgMekwQAUYDft8G6DZ1r7fFs4eYkPJJzo06d5Lg9e112FQqTPTrrf2fRItFqZ0EP2CaaGzTRVxOs_tNbtgs6GDHgs/s1600/IMG_4368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jBaTTWfmx_wHpjqoAhZvcl9zj-Ey9MQNA7pus_29QjAQNReNGesgMekwQAUYDft8G6DZ1r7fFs4eYkPJJzo06d5Lg9e112FQqTPTrrf2fRItFqZ0EP2CaaGzTRVxOs_tNbtgs6GDHgs/s1600/IMG_4368.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am also working on drinking more Plain Water</div>
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<b>Green Peachy Cleanse</b><br />
<b>adapted by ME</b><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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1 cup water<br />
1 piece fresh ginger<br />
1 peach, pitted and sliced<br />
1 handful fresh spinach<br />
1 green apple, cored and sliced<br />
1 squirt Agave Nectar (Optional)<br />
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<b>Directions</b><br />
Place all ingredients in your Vitamix or high powered blender in the order listed. Blend until smooth.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLiJ3tZaYHJ77TDO3P3fX6GvDshCZX7DibvBK0AnbT4KaPx0YbWFba4yhtNzI7Wd9FYoqcQVoQTn9NRgf_Y4KoTmncKKZJCqvUuaO3kXuTgrsQyq38STkxs67jY1eh_JdSzX5lisx7AXA/s1600/IMG_4360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLiJ3tZaYHJ77TDO3P3fX6GvDshCZX7DibvBK0AnbT4KaPx0YbWFba4yhtNzI7Wd9FYoqcQVoQTn9NRgf_Y4KoTmncKKZJCqvUuaO3kXuTgrsQyq38STkxs67jY1eh_JdSzX5lisx7AXA/s1600/IMG_4360.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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My normal handful of fruits and veggies</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ba83DIrCCiZG1HOt0o6zaEXPTgdSuqoeNWyHn96kAyovjwtlPSDZu_TsrSnQV7Vjf9P8WvHvv-2Ck6aqFaDsCadgMH9o2WQzXJvDBiZsdPwiAPELZacjzQQoY335WZgLhKzC8hybJzI/s1600/IMG_4364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ba83DIrCCiZG1HOt0o6zaEXPTgdSuqoeNWyHn96kAyovjwtlPSDZu_TsrSnQV7Vjf9P8WvHvv-2Ck6aqFaDsCadgMH9o2WQzXJvDBiZsdPwiAPELZacjzQQoY335WZgLhKzC8hybJzI/s1600/IMG_4364.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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My almost full blender. I just love this machine</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqWn75mDvAW8sADNtl5hpJZLsGnGobzd6eze_U9DtrUvzMDrWiv3ooPapzL5v7gO2G17BSc12wQ0mqFOjgcWXrpkCnXH1Hsrmxx36KzHZya2ovTd035DOUeqd-tbJGKIcGxWel9daqG8/s1600/IMG_4369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqWn75mDvAW8sADNtl5hpJZLsGnGobzd6eze_U9DtrUvzMDrWiv3ooPapzL5v7gO2G17BSc12wQ0mqFOjgcWXrpkCnXH1Hsrmxx36KzHZya2ovTd035DOUeqd-tbJGKIcGxWel9daqG8/s1600/IMG_4369.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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This was such a good drink. </div>
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The Peach really amp'd up the flavor</div>
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