Edible Potential

Strawberry & Cream Crepes

2012-02-27T10:17:00.000-06:00

Have you ever been to Central Park in New York City to see the John Lennon memorial, Strawberry Fields? When we took our family vacation to NYC in July 2009, we pretty much saw the same thing as Alyssa did.

Masses of people. Bushels of fresh flowers. Tons of lit candles. Quite the site to see.

But no fields overflowing with strawberries. We really weren't expecting any.

When you get a chance to visit NYC, go. Enjoy. You will have the best time.

We even climbed rocks in Central Park.

Oh, and The Met - you must see The Met. My children enjoyed themselves laying on benches and mocking art.

Strawberry & Cream Crepes
- 5 to 6 cups of fresh local (as local as you can get - in February) organic strawberries
- 1 c heavy whipping cream (need full fat to make it creamy)
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp clean water
- 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
In a medium size bowl, add whipping cream and mix with chilled mixing beaters, until cream thickens. Add sugar, water, and lemon juice, beat until soft peaks form. Refrigerate and chill for ~ 30 minutes to 1 hour. Makes about 2 cups.

Pick up some freshly made crepes, (like I did) at your favorite local bakery. Pipe refrigerated
cream into crepe, toss on some berries, and wha-la.

Put one of your favorite films set in NYC in the DVR, and enjoy each delectable bite.

365 - Week 8

2012-02-25T14:14:00.000-06:00

50/365

We went to the movies -

51/365

Lunch meeting.

I was not the smartest person at the table,

so I guess I'm doing something right!

52/365

A blood orange zest-ed afternoon water break.

53/365

Constantly working on food styling.

54/365

I realize that I'm breaking some food photography rules here,

but I really like the colors :)

55/365

Those are sun rays that are naturally draping over the picture, which I thought were nice.

This was shot in the foyer of our church on a sunny Texas Friday afternoon.

56/365

The heart healthy benefits of cinnamon.

Reaalllly looking forward to the Oscar's tomorrow night, the current best of film in motion; and of course, the fashion :)

A happy, happy weekend to you!

3 Favorite Grocery Store Apps

2012-02-23T08:58:00.000-06:00

I'll do most anything not to go to the grocery store for just a couple of items.
Best case- I like to plan out my list, and get it all done with one trip per week. With these three iPhone apps helping me to get better organized, it has made that once a week trip much more attainable. It frees up time much better spent on things I really enjoy.
Like...learning how to sail.

Ziplist - My brother-in-law's wife turned me on to this one. And what she says about it sums it up best:

all your recipes are in one place
can add new recipe ingredients with one click
able to organize into categories according to your own grocery store, *saves time*
the barcode option makes it so easy, your kids can help you do it

I'll also add:

on the app screen, it shows you exactly how many items (I currently have 12) are on your list, so you know about how long you can plan on being in the store
anytime I can take something tangible and organize it online, I'm in!

Fooducate - Thanks to a very successful weight loss client for telling me about this one, appreciate it S!

created by dietitians, 'nough said!
it gives grades to foods, a familiar evaluation tool
gives you a heads up on if there's too much sugar, additives, chemicals -good to know!
offers better options
labels can be very tricky, this greatly reduces guesswork

CardStar - Want to rid your wallet of all those plastic reward cards? This is the app that can do it.

e a s y to use, just scan your phone instead of searching frantically for the right plastic card to earn those points
has a new, search the best deal option
reduces the clutter in your wallet! #thatsallineededtoknow

Have any grocery store apps that work best for you?

Make it a great day!

Happy Days

2012-02-21T11:33:00.000-06:00

This month, I've had the privilege of sponsoring that funny, quirky vintage blog

- modern kiddo. Those ladies are a total riot, and their vintage obsession has rubbed off on me a bit. Remember the television show Happy Days?

And how Mrs. "C" used to say, "It's Tuesday, so you know that Howard has to have his meatloaf and mashed potatoes on Tuesdays."

So...hence this post of...meatloaf and mashed potatoes on a Tuesday!

Meatloaf
2 lb lean ground organic beef (at least 93/7)
1 cage free, grain fed large egg
1-14. oz can of your best tomato sauce -(use 1/4 can in mix, then pour remaining over loaf before cooking)
1 c multi-grain Club crackers, pulverized into little crumbs
1/2 c fresh yellow onion, minced
2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Mix of freshly sliced orange, yellow, & red tomato
Preheat oven to 375*F. Place all ingredients in large bowl-don't forget to add only the 1/4 c portion of the tomato sauce. Form into loaf and put in to square glass baking pan. Nowww, pour remaining tomato sauce over loaf. Cover with foil and bake at *375 for 1 hour.

After 1 hour, take pan out of oven and drain ~ 1/4 c juice. Slice into loaf slices and place back in to the oven for another 20 minutes, uncovered. Take out of the oven and garnish with fresh tomato slices.

Try not to be surprised when the pan is completely empty after dinner.

Mashed Potatoes
5 lb of - mostly (>50%) Russet potatoes, but some Yukon Gold, and even a few Fingerling potatoes. I enjoy variety, can you tell?
1 tsp sea salt- for boiling potatoes + 1 tsp after boiling
1 tsp black pepper
3/4 c real-deal butter
4 oz cream cheese, softened
~ 1/2 c skim milk
1/2 c fresh green chives, chopped small
After rinsing potatoes in cold water, use a cutting board to cut and peel potatoes into fourths. Place potatoes in medium-to-large pot over medium-high heat and fill with cold water, just enough to cover. Bring the water to boil, which should be about 20 minutes, add 1 tsp salt.

Reduce heat to medium, and allow to simmer for ~ another 30 minutes, until potatoes are fork tender, which means the potatoes should almost fall apart, but not quite - no lumpy potatoes allowed! When potatoes are ready, get out your clean colander and drain potatoes into it. Draining over the sink is a good idea.

Thennnnn, take a large bowl and pour the potatoes in. Add butter, cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your fancy schmancy Kitchen Aid hand blender. Microwave the milk for ~ 40 seconds, until warmed. Add milk to bowl, and mix. Add chives and mix.

Oh, the creaminess!

Happy nostalgia!
Happy Fat Tuesday!

This post was published on a cliff top in Greece. I'm heading out to fish. Good day to you!

via cubagallery on flickr

Dream BIG :)

Bigger Than Food

2012-02-20T08:10:00.001-06:00

A simple reminder that life is short. Appreciate the little things!

Her website is terrific, and the book is on my must-read list.
I receive a happy email reminder from The Project every day :)

I'm still working on my 12 daily commandments. Here's what I have so far:

A random act of kindness every day.
Bloom where I am planted.
Stay on task.
Better later, than never.

Make it a great President's day!

365 - Week 7

2012-02-19T08:05:00.000-06:00

A [food inspired] photo every day until 2013.
365/Week 7

43/365
A gifted talent gone too soon.

44/365

An organic Pinata apple - heavenly.

45/365

First attempt at cake pops. Aesthetics? F Taste? A

46/365

Making brussels sprouts. A++

47/365

Breaking bread with the family.

48/365

Salad fixins'.

49/365

Burrito bowl Saturday.

Make Your Own Salad & Vinaigrettes

2012-02-17T13:33:00.000-06:00

I like to make dinner time as easy as possible, don't you?

The kids are home, my husband and I are just finishing up from a day's work, and it is time to relax and watch some DVR'ed Big Bang Theory kick back a little with the family. In the morning, I like to make it easier on myself by preparing our dinner salad for the next 2-3 days. A mix of fresh herbs, lettuce, nuts, seeds, and fresh fruit & veggies get chopped and tossed in a well-sealed jar, and refrigerated.

When dinner time comes, we just toss some on to our favorite salad plate, and dig in.
And - it's one less something I have to do, so late in the day.

On the weekend, I like to whisk together a couple of homemade vinaigrettes.
Makes a busy week much less hectic!

Fresh Tomato Vinaigrette
just slightly adapted via goodhousekeeping
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp ground pepper
1 medium size fresh (not mushy) attractive-looking crimson tomato
3 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 small fresh garlic clove, minced
Place all ingredients into blender, combining just until pureed.
Cover and refrigerate for ~ 1 week. Mix well before serving.
Makes ~ 3/4 c.

Poppy Seed Vinaigrette
slightly adapted via epicurious
2 Tbsp red onion, chopped
1 c olive oil + 1 tsp for sauteing onion
1/6 c wine vinegar
1/3 c sugar
1 tsp salt
2 Tbsp poppy seeds
Saute the chopped onion in ~ 1 tsp olive oil, set aside. Pour vinegar in medium size bowl and add sugar, salt, mustard, and whisk together. Add onions, olive oil, and poppy seeds and whisk until well blended.
Serve immediately or cover with a lid and refrigerate. Shake well or whisk before serving. Make just > 1 c.

A Happy, Happy Friday to you!

Posted while listening to Spanish guitar players in Barcelona.
Dream BIG!

Brussels Sprouts and Pecans

2012-02-15T09:25:00.000-06:00

During my dietetic internship, I was required to spend a little time in the school lunch room. Observing, helping out, ah..well - doing free work.

One day, cauliflower was on the menu. The cook oversteamed it to mush, and lightly threw on some salt and pepper. When I asked her if there was any thing I needed to add to it, her reply was, "No, they're not going to eat it anyway."

I was appalled. Shocked. Well, of course they're not going to eat it.

Holy Toledo, who would?!

That incident, is what I thought of when preparing these delectable sprouts. I know that sprouts are not generally a food you'd pick out of a line-up to eat. But try them, cooked like this. The caramelization yields a nutty and subtle sweetness-hence, the darker color.

Brussels Sprouts & Pecans

adapted from Gwyneth Paltrow

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
2 Tbsp extra virgin- (best quality) olive oil, & extra dash or two when serving
1 large handful of pecan halves
Few pinches of coarse salt
1 fresh lemon, cut in half

Steam the Brussels sprouts for 6-7 minutes, or just until tender and a pretty green. Let them cool for a few minutes and then cut them in half lengthwise.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the sprouts in a single layer, cut side down in the skillet. Cook in batches, if needed, but I didn't need. Sprinkle pecans in-between the sprouts. Allow both sprouts and pecans to cook for 4-5 minutes - do not stir and toss them! The goal in that 4-5 minutes is browned, not burned.

After the 4-5 minutes of this, flip each sprout, allowing the other side to brown, about an extra 3 minutes. Stir the pecans around, you don't want them to burn either.

Remove from heat onto serving platter, sprinkle with the salt, drizzle with olive oil, and squeeze the lemon halves over the sprouts, making sure to share at least a drop of lemon on each sprout halve.

Will serve 4 vegetable loving people and takes ~ 25 minutes.

If you're having a salad, and who isn't? Sprinkle some of these pecans on it as well, my husband loves doing this. And yes, he's a Brussels sprouts convert now.

Posted from the Galapagos Islands, while watching sea lions play.
Dream Big!

{food inspired} Maven Monday

2012-02-13T08:45:00.000-06:00

* A retro cottage kitchen. oh so lovely vintage!
* Wacky & Wonderful cakes.
* Make almond milk, from raw almonds. #goforit
* Cute, cute DIY party favor idea. But no, don't count on your 3-year old to actually...help.

* When checking out a past color of the week, I notice that Annie makes drying dishes a much prettier task.
* Think I like the mini cocottes best.

Posted from a pretty little bench next to the Eiffel Tower.
Dream BIG!

365 - Week 6

2012-02-11T13:52:00.000-06:00

A {food inspired} photo every day until 2013.

365 Project/Week 6

36/365

White & red grapefruit, breakfast bread

topped with Nutella.

37/365

Book club dinner.

38/365

The inside of my hair salon's refrigerator.

39/365

Danielle & Bailey underneath Bailey's
finished health/art project.

40/365

Citrus adoration.

41/365

Sharpening my skills.

42/365

Diablo Burger at Fred's Cafe in Fort Worth.

3 Ways to Eat Breakfast

2012-02-10T11:27:00.000-06:00

When it comes to creating simple recipes, I get asked about breakfast ideas, more than any other meal. Healthy snack ideas is probably second.
You've slept all night so it's important to replenish nutrients and keep you feeling good for the busy day ahead. Because feeling good is important, right?
Here is what I tell those who ask -
Enjoy a combination of:

Lean protein - keeps you feeling full for a longer period of time, which also keeps you from wigging out on mid-morning potato chips.
Complex carbohydrates (beans, whole grains) - the primary fuel for your brain; eat these to avoid that dull headache feeling.
Healthy fats - they do your heart good.
Eating a combination means that you feel good, and so does your body (physiology speaking). Really. 'Nough said.

Marbled mocha breakfast bread (carb) smeared with Nutella
(healthy fat +protein) + ruby red & white grapefruit (carb + fiber + mega good-for-you vitamins/minerals/antioxidants)
sprinkled with salt and sugar.

Non-fat Greek yogurt (protein) with Annie's organic peanut butter granola
(carb + tad protein + healthy fat), mixed berries (carb + mega vitamins/minerals/antioxidants) &
a blueberry infused bran muffin (fiber rich-carb + healthy fats).

Everything bagel (carb + fiber - nuts, seeds, skins) with low-fat cream cheese spread (healthy fat), and a favorite - Blood oranges (carb + fiber + mega vitamins/minerals/antioxidants).

Here's to a wonderful weekend!

Food Stories

2012-02-08T13:58:00.000-06:00

2 ways to think about food...a little differently.
Make it a great day!

Credit: vimeo | the perennial plate.

Gouda and Pear on Wheat

2012-02-06T08:44:00.000-06:00

My routine - as many of you do, is to peruse the newest blog posts most mornings while sipping on our best hot tea or coffee. And every day, you bloggers dazzle me. For example, take a look at the photographs that a cup of jo has already linked me to today. Incredible. It gives me hope for taking my own photography up a notch.

Sincere thanks for the daily inspiration y'all. Truly.

And did you know that one of these terrific bloggers is up for a Twitter Shorty award? It's like the Oscars for Twitter. It's like - cool beans, the big kahuna, the grand marshal. The giant peach! I strongly suggest you give her a vote. She's kind, has a good sense of humor, and knows what she's talking about. How often do you see that combination? ;)

A Happy, Happy Monday to you!

Gouda & Pear on Wheat
inspired via
1 slice whole wheat bread
1 thin slice Gouda cheese
Mixed handful of fresh, washed baby spinach & basil
Half of a perfectly ripe Bosc pear
3 Tbsp sliced pecans
Preheat oven to 350*F. On a baking sheet, layer as follows - bread, cheese, pecans. Bake for ~8 minutes until cheese starts to melt. Remove from oven and add basil, spinach, and pear. Enjoy as a toast or as a sandwich. Prepare for one flavorful combination and continue reading the book you need to finish before book club tonight.

365 - Week 5

2012-02-04T10:10:00.001-06:00

A {food inspired} photo every day until 2013.

365/Week 5

29/365

Lime & cilantro dressing.

30/365

Pear & gouda toast.

31/365

The beginnings of Bailey's health project at school.

Inspired by this post!

32/365

Pei Wei lunch with Danielle today.

33/365

A take-out dinner night.

34/365

Breakfast - muesli, hemp milk, figs, and oolong tea,

while reading Villette.

35/365

Morning styling & lighting session.

3 Favorite Etsy Shops- Gardening

2012-02-03T07:39:00.000-06:00

Two of my favorite things - Etsy shops and gardening. Here are three that I find to be extra special-

photo via lazylighteningart

No plastic markers being dug out or trampled by the dogs, or blown away by a March wind. Spoon markers are the only gardening marker that's worked for me.

photo via happy utilitarian

Cute and has pockets? Where do I sign.

photo via savage seeds

In the hay, or plopped in a comfy porch chair. Or just because I can't get that face out of my head.

Happy, Happy Friday!

Let's Make - Lime & Cilantro Dressing

2012-01-31T04:28:00.001-06:00

Enjoy a good dressing? Yeah, me too. Just the right amount of tangy-ness, & just enough flavor to let me taste more of the green stuff underneath it.

So let's head on over to your kitchen and make this one. I'll bring the Return of the King in blu-ray too. The extended edition.

Lime & cilantro dressing
slightly adapted from this ms cookbook-could not find the recipe online

- 1 c sunflower oil
- 1/4 c olive oil
- 1/4 c champagne vinegar - tipsy-ness not included
- L A R G E handful of fresh cilantro leaves (pleasant pungency - a must)
- 1 tsp Dijon german-style mustard - I like it a little more tangy than most
- 3 Tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice -from the prettiest lime on the block
- few sprinkles of sea salt, to taste - get more minerals with sea salt, that's why I used it
Toss all ingredients into medium sized bowl & whisk together.
Cover, and put in fridge for 2-3 hours.
Toss lightly among a bed of organic, locally harvested red onions, arugula, and tomatoes.
Consume, sitting by a sunny window. And bird watching.

Playing With My Food

2012-01-30T06:29:00.000-06:00

Confession - I've been playing with my food lately.
I hope this inspires you to not take life too serious, too often.
Make it a great Monday!

365 - Week 4

2012-01-29T05:54:00.000-06:00

A {food inspired} photo every day until 2013.
365/Week 4

22/365
Vintage gum & ball stands. I remember multiple stands at
every grocery store, growing up.

23/365
Ornamental cabbage.

24/365
Making Bailey's lunch. Let 'em know they are special
every single day.

25/365
My lime dressing.

26/365
I L O V E my job. A poster from the office.
[via Instagram]

27/365

Nothing quite like the taste of a Meyer lemon.

28/365
Unused arugula stems headed to the compost pile.

Make Your Own Hot Tea

2012-01-27T16:27:00.000-06:00

Making hot tea in the Winter is super easy, and well worth the extra few minutes it takes to prepare. There are three varieties- spiced chai, lemon-green, & apple-cinnamon, that I make often - usually when I'm reading the current news in the wee hours of the morning. Yes, I still read it in the printed form.

Spiced Chai Latte
- 2 Tbsp of your favorite loose black tea (~~my husband~~ Santa put some from the Central Market tea bins in my stocking)
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 whole cinnamon stick
- 1/2" piece of vanilla bean
- 1 Tbsp locally produced honey
- 1/4 c hot (not scalding) skim milk
Place tea, cloves, and cinnamon stick in French Press. Add the boiling water and steep for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the honey and the hot, not the wanta-sue-McDonalds-scalding, but hot milk. Makes 4 luscious cups. Sit next to a sunny window and people watch on your neighbors just like you would at Starbucks.

Lemon-Green Tea

- 2 tsp loose green tea
- 3 thin slices of fresh ginger
- 6 thin strips of a Meyer lemon, for the optimum of lip puckering
- 2 Tbsp locally harvested honey
- 2 c boiling water - I microwave for 2 minutes
Place tea, ginger, lemon and honey at the bottom of the French press. Pour boiling water on top and steep for 3-5 minutes. Push down on the press, & pour into a clean, washed cup (oh, please do), and enjoy the lemon aroma.

Apple-Cinnamon Tea

slightly adapted

- 1/3 c loose green tea

- 3/4 tsp of your BEST cinnamon, not bragging (ok, I am) but mine came from France

- 3/4 tsp nutmeg, grated & minced

- 1 gorgeous in-season Honey crisp apple, thinly sliced

- 1/2 small Clementine orange, zested

- 2 Tbsp locally produced honey- you want the good stuff. Does not have to come packaged to look like a bear

- 4 c hot, hot water

In a medium pot, add green tea, cinnamon, nutmeg, 1/2 of the apple slices, and orange zest; pour 4 c water on top. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, then simmer for 2 minutes. Cover pot, and remove from heat. Let steep for 15 minutes. Take out a colander and place cheesecloth in the bottom. Place colander with cheesecloth on top of another medium pot. Strain tea over colander, yielding delicious tea in the bottom pot. Sip tea and snack on remaining apple slices and bits of Gouda cheese toast.

Enjoy it!

how to win at losing

2012-01-25T10:43:00.000-06:00

via

I've been working with weight loss clients for more than a few years now, so I've seen some consistent trends with those who are successful.
Since it's the new year and weight loss goals are up right now, I thought this would be a good time to share these top 5 consistencies I see in people who are reaching their weight loss goals. My hope is, that I encourage you!
1) Believe it and you can achieve it. Don't and you probably won't. Believe you can get back to your high school weight. It's just going to take some work.
2) Small steps WITH a timeline. Make small goals in 5-10 lb increments and most important, set a timeline. I've been doing this for years with setting goals. Without a timeline, I probably would have strayed off task - oh no- I would have strayed off task ;)
3) Keep track of your progress often. Take an Instagram picture of yourself each week & post on a bulletin board or in a journal that you will look at every-single-day.
4) Write it down. It eliminates things like, "I think I'm eating this much", or "I know I don't eat over 1200 calories every day." Writing it down, tells you for sure. My favorite *free* apps for this are myfitnesspal & loseit!
5) Reward yourself. Sounds cliche, but it works. Make it something special, like some new wheels for your life in the fast lane, or even something simple like a new pair of shoes. Make certain that you won't reward yourself until the goal is met. It helps to keep you focused.

Hope this helps...make it a great day!

Big Green Monster Smoothie

2012-01-24T09:47:00.000-06:00

With all this nice weather we've had lately, I've been thinking about going more....green.
Maybe put on some vintage green shoes with my so-pretty green dress and wear them while watching one of my favorite green-ish musicals, sipping on a sparkling summer limeade in some pretty green ladened grass, next to some oh-so artsy green sculptures.
And breathe.

After that, I will quickly create this magical green smoothie and drink it
with my son as he tells me about his high school filled day.

The Big Green Monster Smoothie

adapted from annieseats

- 1 aging banana

- 1 enticingly green pear, chopped Now don't get crazy & add a red pear because you'll lose that pretty green color.

- 1 c frozen pineapple, in chunks

- 1 1/2 c plain-regular-nothing else added to it-coconut water

- 2 1/2 c baby spinach leaves, rinsed & dabbed with paper towel to dry

- 1 Tbsp agave nectar

- 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed

Toss all ingredients into your favorite blender (mine's the Ninja) and give it a few whirls until it's completely smooth. I took it to 1-2-3, just a couple of times to get there.

Serve quickly to your favorite people out in the sunshine while discussing the latest movie releases.

Fooor the record, when I think of big green monsters, this is the second thing to come to mind.

photo via

365 - Week 3

2012-01-22T10:14:00.000-06:00

A {food inspired} photo every day until 2013.
365/Week 3

15/365

Idiosyncrasies (not mine ;)

16/365
This was written on the table in paper wrappings, when we went out to lunch.

17/365
My son enjoying a chicken leg for an after school snack.

18/365
A favorite tea blend-orange & cinnamon.

19/365
Some of my - office space.

20/365

Not too old to still go and feed the ducks with his mom.

21/365

Brie on jam toast.

Sunny Texas

2012-01-21T11:18:00.001-06:00

We had 75* weather here in Texas yesterday, so I headed to the park for a brisk, long walk and my camera. Hope it is sunny where you are, and if not, here's hoping you feel its warmth!

Travel is so rewarding that it should take precedence over the things that younger people spend money on.
- a well traveled woman

7 Quick Ways to Enjoy Greek Yogurt

2012-01-20T05:55:00.000-06:00

1. Oikos chocolate nonfat Greek with added Tbsp of flaxseed, pecans, & butterscotch chips.
2. Chobani plain Greek with squeezed lemon juice, 2 tsp each of heath bits & chocolate chips.
3. Plain yogurt with Tbsp of cooked wheatberries & slices of a fresh peach.
4. Vanilla low fat Greek with added granola and fresh cherries.

* Greek, tsp of Polaner All Fruit blackberry jam, fresh blackberries, slivered almonds.
* Greek, fresh blue berries, sliced banana, sprinkle of cinnamon.
* Greek, couple Tbsp of pumpkin butter, unsalted sunflower seeds.

Easy ways to add in extra flavor, fruit, & fiber to a sometimes gotta-move-fast morning breakfast. I rarely eat yogurt without adding something to it. Enjoy!

Cooking videos with potential

2012-01-18T08:10:00.001-06:00

These are so helpful and do-able. This first one, made me laugh too!

Thanks, saveur.com!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Shrimp lo mein

2012-01-17T10:16:00.001-06:00

Kids are back to school after the long weekend, so time to get back to ~~wok~~ work. Not as much on cooking, as it is about scrap booking. I will be finished by February 1, and then go 95% digital with pictures.

So, something SUPER easy for dinner tonight, because my kitchen table will be plastered in pictures and stickers and patterns and backgrounds and more pictures.

All. Day.

Shrimp lo mein
adapted from Real Simple
8 ounces lo mein noodles
2 Tbsp canola oil
1 lb peeled & deveined medium size shrimp
1/2 lb snow peas, ends trimmed
4 scallions, both white & green parts, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 tsp coarse salt
1/4 c oyster sauce
2 Tbsp sesame oil
2 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
1 Tbsp roasted sesame seeds
1 Tbsp crushed red pepper
> Cook noodles according to package directions.
> Meanwhile, in a large skillet over high heat, heat the canola oil. Add shrimp, snow peas, garlic, scallions, and salt. Stir together for ~ 3 minutes, so shrimp can cook through.
> Add oyster sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, and 1/4 c water. Allow sauce to thicken, about 1-2 minutes.
> Add noodles and toss to combine. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and red pepper.

Just Read & What They Ate

2012-01-16T05:48:00.003-06:00

Just Read & What They Ate
*New Feature*

Note: Check out the dwell magazine feature on this trendy Barcelona home.

Combining my passion for great food and must-read books, a new blog feature for 2012 - Just Read & What They Ate. I'll be posting this feature at least once monthly. First up, these two books!

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo
Coffee Cafe latte Sandwiches Loaf of bread Cheese Pickles Rye bread sandwiches Caviar Hard boiled egg Tea More coffee More sandwiches Boiled potatoes Tea sandwich Open sandwiches with pickled herring & mustard sauce, chives Egg More open-faced sandwiches Plastic wrapped sandwich from the vending machine Thick sandwiches on rye bread with cheese Liver sausages Coffee cake More cheese Dill pickles Liver pate Cucumber sandwich Cokes

The Paris Wife
Oysters Tea biscuits Bourbon & seltzer water Mixed rum drinks Wine in teacups Sparkling wine with floating strawberries Whiskey & water Eggs Toast Ham & mustard Absinthe Warm wrapped sandwiches Warm Brandy Crisp River Trout stuffed w/fried ham& onions Sweet cafe con leche Rolls Black coffee Jam Waffles Muskmelon Cheese Pear liqueur Bread & Butter Champagne Dried Fruit Tea cake Sugared almonds Good wine & creamy soups 4-course lunches Tea Schnapps More Brandy Hard cheese Sausages Heavy bread Kirsch More wine Oranges Beer Thick beer More Whiskey Cafe ole Gazpacho Hard bread Fish poached in lime Prawns with cracked pepper Paella More wine Sausage & nice potatoes Mulled wine Sardines Capers Steaming brioche Juice Martinis Cafe creme Bread & bananas Strawberry ice cream Great sides of beef Potted minced pork Wild boar Wild veal cutlets Asparagus & mushrooms Regional wine Chateau merlot Figs Sherry Biscuits Caviar Fresh corn dotted with sprigs of basil More martinis Seven kinds of *chevre (goat cheese) More oysters More coffee Tavel More caviar Toast Points Black & white figs Fresh fruit from the garden Strong coffee *Ouef au jambon (eggs made with ham), with lots of butter & pepper Steamy brioche Juice Tinned sardines Freshly picked figs Olives Pastry

*Thanks to my French fluent daughter Danielle, for translating :)

365 - Week 2

2012-01-14T19:20:00.000-06:00

A {food inspired } photo every day until 2013.

365/Week 2

08/365

Preparing shrimp lo mein diner.

09/365

Slicing salami for Bailey's lunch.

10/365

Enchiladas with fresh lettuce, grape tomatoes, black olives.

11/365

Making chicken 'n dumplings.

12/365

Fortune telling.

13/365

Spilled Clementines.

14/365

Courtney holding red grapes.

What's Makin' Me Happy Friday

2012-01-13T03:09:00.000-06:00

prints available via

L O V E this couch from the selby, pillows and all; This dog even makes me

smile; Funny,touristy family pose in front of the Eiffel tower; The colors & style is a must-wear for Spring; This surfer color displayed by favoritepaintcolors will go well in our bathroom when we re-paint this Summer; Give some kids TOO many stickers and this is what you get; The demon of screamin's twitter account. He writes, just like he talks. Hilarious!; Learning more about blogging has made me appreciate color so much more. See how nubblytwiglet pulls together the colors from this book so well; If only my children would dress alike like this for bed now, it would be a picture perfect moment, for sure!

Can't beliiieeeve I've waited this long to share The Hobbit trailer. So excited to see this story again!!
Re-watched My Fair Lady for the 341st gazillionth time this week. I never tire of it, and it's a reminder that communication IS everything! Some trivia to go along with it.
There is something cute and tomboyish about these shoes that I like...

Happy Friday Friends!

3 Simple Pleasures for a Healthy Life

2012-01-11T14:14:00.000-06:00

EAT great food, just not too much.
MOVE more, and it doesn't have to be at the gym.
LEARN how to do something you wanted to do when you were 10.

Hoping to add a little adventuresome spirit to your day...

Bloom Where You Are Planted!

Crusty French Bread Pizza

2012-01-10T07:02:00.000-06:00

Whooo doesn't love pizza?

No one I know.

Whooo doesn't cringe when someone mentions ordering pizza for dinner and you have

j u s t started your New Years better-at-eating resolution?

Nobody I can think of...

We sliced the bread in half lengthwise, and ate it by the length. Oh, we did.

Felt satisfied.

Guilt free.

We so, did.

You will too :)

*Crusty French Bread Pizza
inspired by: for the love of cooking & rachael ray
makes 1 full loaf of French bread pizza
- 2 T unsalted butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 6 anchovie fillets, chopped
- 1 c green onions, chopped
- sea salt & white pepper, to taste
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 crusty loaf French bread, split in half lengthwise
- 1/2 can Muir Glen organic pizza sauce
- 1 c fresh tomatoes, diced
- 6 deli thin slices Gruyere cheese
- 1 c Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 6 slices hard salami, cut in 1/4's
- 1/4 c fresh parsley, chopped
Preheat the oven to 400*.
In medium pan, heat the butter until it becomes foamy, ~3-4 minutes. Add olive oil, anchovies, onions, garlic, and salt & pepper, to taste. Cook on medium high heat for 20 minutes.
Prepare the French bread by slicing lengthwise. Spoon the onion mixture out evenly on both sides on bread. Smear 1/4 can pizza sauce on each side of the loaf. Spread the cheeses and salami over both halves. Sprinkle diced tomatoes and parsley on top. Bake for 10 minutes.
Serves 2-3.

Maven Monday

2012-01-09T04:24:00.000-06:00

* Her cookbook is pretty cool (insert-this SNL Miley Cyrus accent)

* Virtual cooking school?! Yes, help please. Can you teach me how to spread peanut butter & Biscoff on a bagel AND make it look pretty??

* Need something to do with that goat cheese that the inebriated New Years Eve friend placed in your Christmas stocking? Look no further.

* Just give me a diving board into this healthy lusciousness.
* I keep hearing about how W O N D E R F U L, this cookbook is.

* No more awkward moments at the dinner table (think-Pretty Woman movie lobster or was it a crab? scene) Elise will teach us how!

* Opps, sorry. I got distracted with beach loveliness.

* Buy some for yourself, and some for your table today :)
* Oh. I feel like such.a.slacker when I see what she can do with a party.

* Ahhh!! Coffee cozies!
* Is wallpaper really coming back in style??
* First, check out the NAME of this blog. Second, a different way to make eggs.
* I want to eat at this cafe! If only just for the hope of seeing a mountain goat in the distance.

Make it a great day all!

365 Photo Project

2012-01-08T04:57:00.000-06:00

A photo a day until 2013.

366 days, if you count that it's a leap year.

Or as my husband said, "Sounds like a day off."

365/Week 1

01/365

Lunch at Pei Wei with Steve & Courtney.

02/365

Lunch at Tollie's Barbecue with Steve.

03/365

Bailey's first bite of In N' Out Burger.

04/365

Food Plaza at American Airlines Center in Dallas.

Dallas Mavericks v Phoenix Suns game.

05/365

Makings of a cherry tartine.

06/365

Concession stand.

Volunteering for Courtney's basketball booster club.

07/365

Burrito bowl lunch at Freebirds with Steve, a Saturday tradition.

What's Makin' Me Happy Friday

2012-01-06T06:05:00.000-06:00

What's Makin' Me Happy Friday!

[New Resolutions]

Just a little encouragement :]

Take more chances. Say, "oh, well", and "why not?" a lot more often. Think different.
Simplify. Simplify. Simplify. My husband and I started this in 2010, and it's been very freeing for both of us. A-mazing how much stuff we really don't need.
Hang out with creative, forward thinking people. Learn from them. Don't be the smartest one in the room.
Don't settle. "If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always got." Thanks for that, Kathie Lee.
Be good to yourself. Eat better. Get outside more. Take a walk down a path you've never gone before.

Take 15 minutes out of every morning, before your mate and kids get up, to work on a goal you're trying to achieve. Mine is learning Spanish. By 2013, I will have put in 15x30=450x12=5,400 more minutes on it this year, than if I hadn't put the time in at all.
Do more random acts of kindness. Remember her?

Try it.

It could be the start of something really nice.

Egg Sandwich w/Sausage, Lettuce & Tomato

2012-01-05T05:21:00.000-06:00

Hearty. Healthy. It just plain, tastes good.

I don't just eat breakfast because... it breaks-the-fast by making me feel just full enough to avoid other foods later in the morning that I know are no good for me, or that it keeps me from getting a headache & being grouchy with my family, or because it gives me the needed nourishment to sustain an hour long cycling class.

I eat it because, it tastes good.

Breakfast like a King.

Lunch like a Prince.

Dinner like a Pauper.

It sooo works.

For me, anyway.

Egg sandwich w/sausage, lettuce & tomato

- 2 whole grain English muffins

- 2 large eggs, scrambled w/2 Tbsp skim milk

- olive oil

- 1 c lettuce/spinach mix

- 1/2 c sliced grape tomatoes

- 2 sausage patties, chopped

- salt & pepper to taste

1. Split muffin and toast a whole grain English muffin.

2. With just a drizzle of olive oil in a pan over medium heat, cook 2 sausage patties until done. Wipe out the pan, and add another smidgen of olive oil, and fry 2 eggs w/a dash of salt, pepper, and 2 Tbsp milk, to desired doneness.

3. Place 1/2 of lettuce mix and 1/4 c tomatoes on one side of the English muffin. Add eggs, and sprinkle chopped sausage on top. Add the rest of the lettuce and tomatoes.

4. Serve with salsa, if you're from Texas ;)

5 Things Meatball Recipe

2012-01-03T06:35:00.000-06:00

1. I can make them ahead of time and freeze them.

2. Versatile. They're not just for spaghetti anymore. See here. Here. And here.

3. You can make them as large or as small as you want. Wouldn't recommend this, though. See #29.

4. A super-duper-goofy-awesome 1979 movie was made about them. And in 3D.

5. Nothing but muuush. The cutest song ever.

Oh - and being palatable certainly helps.

5thingsMeatballs:

- few sprits of olive oil

- 1 end of a baguette

- 4 links sweet Italian sausage, ground

- 1/2 lb sirloin (93/7), ground

- 1/4 c onion, finely chopped

- 1 large egg

- 1 Tbsp dried Italian seasoning

- 1 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped

- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

- 1 garlic clove, minced

- 1/2 tsp black pepper, ground

- 1/4 tsp sea salt, finely granulated

1. Preheat broiler, and prepare a lightly spritzed rimmed baking pan with olive oil.

2. Prepare meatballs by tearing the end of the baguette into pieces, and placing into a food processor. Process until crumbs have reached a "fine" consistency that measures 1/2 c.

3. Combine all ingredients - from bread crumbs to salt, in a large bowl.

4. With wet, clean hands, shape mixture into ~30 meatballs, and place on prepared broiler pan.

5. Broil for 15 minutes.

6. Let cool and serve or cool and freeze for a busy weekday night.

Maven Monday

2012-01-02T06:49:00.000-06:00

{food inspired}

Maven Monday

I spy more pretty Etsy in 2012; here's a cute idea for an upcoming wedding celebration for all you gals who acquired an engagement ring this past holiday season; football season is still in full bloom, so you just might need another tasty dip yet; a montage of 5 second rule's food-related reminders. So true.

365: Day 1

2012-01-01T14:39:00.000-06:00

A food inspired photo every day until 01/01/2013.

01/365. Black Bean Chicken & Rice. Pei Wei lunch with Steve & Courtney.

Tea towel background via

Back with more tomorrow!

What's Makin' Me Happy Friday

2011-12-30T14:49:00.000-06:00

What’s Makin’ me happy Friday!

One: I'm with Pugly Pixel, I enjoyed watching my DVR'ed PBS American Masters documentary on Woody Allen too. He's a creative guy, and unfortunately, (or fortunately?), this quote fits me, as well.

Two: Perfect dessert to make for NYE!

Three: My new, well, new to me camera, showed up at my door this week. No ugly man-camera- bags allowed!

Four: A New Year. New possibilities. Gotta love it :)

Five: We chose not to have cable while our kids were growing up too. So we opted for a lot of these old movies.

Some Like It Hot: Jack Lemmon was hil-arious.

Rear Window: Hitchcock, Jimmy Stewart & Grace Kelly. That says it all.

Singing in the Rain: Happiest movie ever!

Caramel Corn

2011-12-29T15:44:00.000-06:00

I don't need Autumn's first whisk of cold air. I don't need Halloween. I don't need the Coney Island summer time aroma of oo-ey gooey caramel corn being popped, mixed with the light ocean breeze, to rejoice in pleasing foods. Ok, I'll confess, I do need summer time with the ocean breeze.

But!... the taste and faint wafting of sweet & salty, is just ONE sweeet combination.
Oh, and a heads up. It's addicting.

On New Years Eve, we'll pull out the board games, have some friends over, and celebrate the gratifying events of 2011, and the eager anticipation of an even brighter 2012.

{{More-->Keep Reading!

Maven Monday

2011-12-26T02:33:00.000-06:00

Maven Monday

{food inspired: New Years Eve in Style}

1. Only SF Girl could make bar carts so attractive!
2. Taking it down to the details, with edible garnishes.
3. Impress your guests, if you're in to that sort of thing (always remember to insert sarcasm while reading these ;), "Oh, these little things? I use these everyday."
4. These were so pinned. I couldn't pass up these little hand warming gems either.
5. Need adult beverage ideas? NutmegNanny has some lovely ones...
6. Even plastic water bottles - on sale, would look good in this.
7. Add a little fancy to your everyday.
8. A chip & dip blog hop!
9. We have many fun memories playing games on New Years Eve.
10. Wanting to turn over a ~~new leaf~~, new root by eating healthier in 2012? Check out her recipes!

A Very Merry -

2011-12-25T07:53:00.000-06:00

A very Merry Christmas from the in-laws house to yours ;)

Many joyful blessings to you & your family!

What's Makin' Me Happy Friday

2011-12-23T04:21:00.000-06:00

1. This past weekends SNL skit has been played at my house EVERY day since then. It's worth it to wait for the 30 second advertisement to get there. Get up to fill another cup of tea, like I do, while it's loading. It is funny!

2. The 10 Legendary Haunts of Artists & Writers is now on my must-see-while- traveling list.

3. Welcome back basketball season!! I adore my Dallas Mavericks, but this may be the team to watch this season..

4. Nick Cannon, your creativity is inspiring!

5. Thank you for making me laugh. A Christmas tree in one of the pictures looks like one that my brother-in-law chopped down for my in-laws one year. No kidding!

A Merry, Merry Christmas everyone!

8 Ways to Plan a Pretty Table

2011-12-21T17:23:00.000-06:00

8 Ways to - Plan a Pretty Table

One: Covering the table your son thought was his next permanent marker masterpiece may be a good idea before your mother-in-law arrives. My favorite is the one with pine cones and squirrels ;)

Two: Maybe a cute apron to only slightly conceal, a reason to purchase a cute dress?

Three: Flatware that doesn't have that got-stuck-in-the-disposal-too-many-times look.

Four: These remind me of the ones they carry in the movie - Young Frankenstein!

Five: Some even have monogramming available.

Six: Peacocked, beaded, even scalloped.

Seven: A simple, but elegant centerpiece.

Eight: Be the hostess, with the most-est & cover all the party details -

Sweet and Salty Pecans

2011-12-20T07:29:00.000-06:00

Sweet & Salty. Maybe a tad more sweet than salty, but just right, either way.

I can always tell if a recipe is going to taste good. The in-the-process-of-cooking pungency offers the first hint. When my family first comes through the door, and starts telling me about their day, while they constantly grab samples of whatever has just been taken out of the oven, it's a good sign.

That's what happened when I made these.

You have to try these, and then, please let me know what you think. Because we were impressed!

Sweet & Salty Pecans

adapted from Martha Stewart

Total time: < 30 minutes

- Olive oil spray (with a Misto)

- 1/2 c packed light brown sugar

- 1/4 c + 2 Tbsp half & half

- 1/2 tsp real vanilla extract

- 3/4 tsp finely granulated sea salt

- 4 c pecan halves

Preheat oven to 325*. Lightly spray a rimmed baking sheet with olive oil. In a large bowl, stir sugar, half & half, vanilla, and salt. Add pecans, and stir until well coated. Spread pecans out on the baking sheet in an even layer.

Bake, stirring every 8 minutes or so, until browned and toasted, about 20-22 minutes. Take out of oven and transfer to a parchment lined baking sheet. Allow pecans to cool completely.

{Food Inspired} Maven Monday

2011-12-19T06:44:00.000-06:00

Maven MondAy {food inspired}

*Gift Giving Edition*

One: You Shop. They Give. Coupons Galore!

Two: Harry & David's - terrific tasting, and FREE shipping!! I used it recently and noticed several items are already sold out!

Three: This book was featured in the paper this weekend: F E E D me on pretty plates!

Four: Chick Cooks has some stocking stuffing ideas -

Five: For that person with a dear-to-them hobby, and for thinking outside the board.

Six: Edible worthy and chocolate. 'Nough said.

Seven: If they are crazy about their state AND food like, u-hem, Texans are, they could really like this. Celebrity obsessed? This may work.

Eight: Ifff you have a little cash, and the gift receiver adores cake, these prints would be lovely.

Nine: Another way to enjoy aromatic lavender? Uh, yes please.

Ten: I'm not a coffee drinker, but I have several friends who are. They L O V E their Keurig.

Eleven: What about a cooking class? Whole Foods offers a variety of topics.

Twelve: I can't think of anyone who wouldn't want something from Crate & Barrel!

Happy Shopping!

Easy To Make - Orange Pomanders

2011-12-18T06:34:00.000-06:00

DIY (Do. It. Yourself.) is veerryy trendy right now, have you noticed? Is it the economy? The evolution of Pinterest? Not certain, but it is here and it's grabbed a hold on me.
Very much into DIY and vintage lately, I can't explain it.

Supplies needed:

Large fresh oranges, and if they can stand upright easily, even better.
Cloves - I bought mine at World Market.
Pretty ribbon!
An extra hand to help hold the orange while you're doing the tying. Thanks, to my husband!
I'm a little spazzz like Joy, and she seems to have provided the best instructions, because, well, I understood them.

Also helpful:

A little creativity. I used lemons and limes too, but their aroma wasn't nearrlly pronounced as the oranges. Pretty, though.
The more cloves you add, the longer the fragrance lasts.
Playing jolly Christmas music in the background adds to the fun -
If I can do this, so can you! I re-gu-lar-ly have to keep at something 30 times before I get it. It only took about 10 times with this! ;)
Don't forget to keep some for yourself to enjoy.

If the DIY has gotten a hold on you too, go to this site and check out their blog-

2011-12-16T06:05:00.000-06:00

What's Makin' Me H-A-P-P-Y Friday!

1. Just ordered one this week, not for our pups, but isn't it precious?!

2. Inspiring coffee table browsing-

{{More-->Keep Reading!

Mulled Apple Cider

2011-12-15T06:35:00.000-06:00

I mentioned the other day that I've been sick.

Cold, aching, carry-around-a-Puffs+-tissue-everywhere kind of sick. Nothing life shattering, just a nuisance really. Soooo, to make me feel better, and take a break from my oh, so comforting, warm soup and hot tea..

I made this, which was...Good. Good. Good.

I did what you would probably do when looking for the perfect recipe for apple cider. Yup, I looked to the pioneer woman. I only slightly adapted her recipe.

Mulled Apple Cider

4 cinnamon sticks
1/4 tsp ground cloves
8 whole Allspice berries
Orange peel from one medium orange, cut into strips
Lemon peel from one small lemon, cut into strips
1/4 c real-deal Vermont maple syrup
6 c unfiltered apple juice (I used this one)

Place cinnamon sticks, cloves, Allspice berries, orange and lemon peel into a medium size saucepan. Pour in syrup and apple juice. Place on MEDIUM setting. Bring to almost a boil, about 10 minutes. Reduce to lowest setting and simmer for 30 minutes.

Remove from heat. Serve in your cutest mug.

I'm back in my flannels and on the coach with my Puffs+, ready to watch re-runs of The Big Bang Theory.

2011-12-12T08:10:00.000-06:00

*It's Maven Monday!*

[food inspired]

One: Lollihop. I had an idea to put something like this together this past summer, but they beat me to it!

Two: Who doesn't love a surprise at their door?

Three: Convenient. Environmentally responsible. Aids in portion control. Dishwasher safe!

Four: This chocolate mix reminds me of Chocolat, the movie. If you're like me and enjoy pirates, it's a must-see.

Five: Talk about snow. great food. and one BIG sky.

Six: Etsy- says it all.

Seven: Food for the home, and if you haven't tried blood oranges, you must!

Eight: Step away from the usual, plain yellow. I. can't. get. enough. of. this. #willeatwithaspoon

Nine: A leader in fair trade and sustainability. Variety of blends. Stocking stuffer!

Ten: The small sample size cheeses in the Whole Foods cheese section, just a taste to make sure you like it.

One-a-Day, x 365

2011-12-11T05:46:00.000-06:00

I've been under the weather this week. So hopefully I'll post more about FOOD in a couple of days. At this point, you really don't want my coughing-sneezing-aching self in the kitchen.

Starting January 01, 2012, I've decided to join the 365 photo project, inspired by the flickr 365 project, charitywater.org's photo of the day blog, and Tracy at shutterbean.
But I'll be doing it mainly because of an overall desire to gain better knowledge of photography, and get wayyy better at it.

I'm going to call it:

365 days photo proJECT

{mostly food. sometimes not.}

or something like that.

My hope is to get as proficient as these guys:

Travel with Flickr-

1. Just because, he captures this busy atmosphere and makes it soo..pretty.

2. The Great Wall is so hikeable because of this view.

3. Remember the ol' Calgon commercial? That's how I'm feeling this week. And every week.

4. Politically interesting, and captured with the lens so well.

Random Instagram pictures from creative users like:

- ptrdew - ninish

- yooko - ryotukoro

i.do.heart.my.iPhone.

2011-12-09T07:39:00.000-06:00

Makin’ Me Happy Friday

One: Rainy days...which make me think about getting out some good reading material..

Two: Just a couple of clicks, a virtual swipe of the credit card, and the wish lists that my children created, made shopping much easier for me this year.

Three: And speaking of children, isn't my daughter's braid so cute !?!

Four: Don't you just love seeing something old made new again? I'm a firm believer in second chances.

Five: This link is specifically for my husband- wink, wink, my dear :)

Six: My youngest daughter's VERY bubbly personality constantly keeps me smiling (my oldest daughter does too). Her and her basketball team swear by this traditionally male style deodorant after heavily-sweated games.

Seven: "Let them eat cake!", said a once great queen.

Eight: Charlie Brown & Co. always makes me smile, and uh, I've tried every one of these dance moves.

Nine: Who wants to learn how to cook Indian food? I do! I do!

Ten: If you're looking for a slightly more elegant cookie recipe for your office gift exchange, look no further.

Maven Monday

2011-12-05T00:29:00.000-06:00

*Maven MONDAY*

1. Because beans are a-amazing, especially the ones from Rancho Gordo. 2. I thought their pumpkin butter was good, and it was. But you've gotta try this {picture the kid from the old Life cereal commercial}. 3. Because...while I wait patiently for the authentic-real-deal natural sweetness, this is a fine replacement. 4. Nothing like these at Christmas time, and come as a vegan option too! 5. A 'Thank You' note to Target, who would have thought they'd carry organic?

2011-12-02T11:39:00.000-06:00

What's Makin Me Happy - Friday

One: My try at making my own cranberry sauce didn't go as planned, but my little family were good sports about it. I'll be trying Dishy's recipe next time.
Two: Listening to Michael's voice is just so...Christmasy.
Three: After all these years of wearing it, I'm still loving this classic smell.

Four: My 17 year old daughter said, "This just makes him a gazillion times even more attractive." Yes, he has his own band.
Five: My new found adoration for photography and my old, still existing love, for my iPhone was taken up a couple of notches when I saw this post. Cute blog too.
Six: Kindle. Books. Library = Love the lending idea.
Seven: Always appreciate reminders like this:

Off to Christmas shop!

These Eggs and Ham

2011-12-01T08:33:00.000-06:00

Would you eat them...

on...itself?

In a wrap?

As a snack?

Pita perhaps...

Easy Egg Salad

makes ~ 4 servings

marginally adapted from Giada at Home

Ingredients:

- 8 slices bacon (has less salt than pancetta)

- 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled & coarsely chopped

- 1 c shredded Asiago cheese

- grated zest of 1 lemon

- 1/3 c mayo w/olive oil

- 1/3 c fresh green onions (the green part)

- salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400*, lay the bacon on a foil lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, until crispy and brown. Drain on paper towels and crumble bacon.

In a medium bowl, combine eggs, shredded cheese, lemon zest, mayo, and onions. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Take the crumbled bacon and sprinkle over egg mixture.

Time:

20 minutes, since you have to wait 15, for the bacon :)

Listen to the Smoothie Sounds

2011-11-29T11:22:00.000-06:00

My little surburbia kitchen has started to look like my ol' food science lab.

No grading allowed here.

Thought this would be a good time to introduce a smoothie recipe. A few days ago, this would have been the last thing anybody wanted to know about. Oh, I know, you all were thinking about REAL FOOD.

What to do when you have these items staring back at you in your kitchen?

Peel that banana. Duh. Toss the peel in your compost pile. Also a given.

Toss all ingredients in blender, and hit the pulse-really-fast button, (on mine that's a '3'), for ~ 30 seconds total. Because that crunchy peanut butter can be a little stubborn when taking it down to smooth.

Basic Banana-Peanut Butter-Biscoff Smoothie

Ingredients:
- 1 really ripe banana
- 1 c cow's milk
- 1 Tbsp crunchy peanut butter
- 1 Tbsp Biscoff spread
- 1 Tbsp agave nectar
- 1 c crushed-like-Sonic's ice

What's Makin' Me Happy Friday

2011-11-25T16:48:00.000-06:00

What's Makin' Me Happy Friday

*Black Friday Edition

One: Blackberries. Delicious, and yeah, they're good for me.

Two: I could totally eat off this. Or...especially the ones with dots. Heart.
Three: Prepare food on it, err.., okay!
Four: Ahem. If I were to wrap up this little jewel, I would earn some hefty golden stars.
Five: I'm no hunter, but these are on my wish list. And probably the dress, too. If I could ~~hide~~ keep it from my daughter.
Six: Maybe ~~my son~~ some people I know. love. adore. would wash their hands more thoroughly, if I changed our bathroom dispenser design to this. Maybe.

Still ridin' the Thanksgiving high?...what this woman did should only fuel the fire.

2011-11-24T21:26:00.000-06:00

thanksgiving 2011

Grateful. Thankful. Blessed.

2011-11-23T08:17:00.000-06:00

I'm a true believer in: THINGS HAPPEN FOR A REASON.

In the past 10 months, I've spent a ton more time on the web than I used to.
And boy, what I've learned.

Thanks for the introduction to oatmeal in a jar

For your wit.

For introducing me to picnik.
For the introduction to this app.

I'm looking at new recipes and cookbooks with a whole new eye..

Thanks for appreciating "clean" & "pretty". Keeping it real, & oh, so funny!

For helping me to have a better appreciation for photography and design

And of course, to the ones who support, and keep me grounded, while my adventures on the web continue...

..and teach me how important this is, every day-

Happy Thanksgiving All!

Maven Monday

2011-11-21T06:35:00.000-06:00

Oh...the yumminess that's been falling into my lap lately.

1) For all of you dairy-free dessert lovers who appreciate a taste of coconut-

Not necessarily better for you, just a palatable different, from the usual frozen yogurt or cow's milk ice cream. Still 180 calories for a half cup.

2) For those of you that thought this was a good idea, you'll love this

3) A twist on the usual Eckrich. Meaty, no 'filler' taste, & enjoyed by the tough food crowd side of my family

4) Sea salt. Generally has more minerals than the usual blue container most of grew up with, and if the crystals are larger, it creates a more robust flavor, which means you probably use less. But salt is still salt.

And who doesn't love a little pink?

5) Take your 20% OFF Bed, Bath & Beyond coupon and buy it if you've been putting it off. Very adequate alternative under $100 for those of us not quite ready to fork over the $$$$ for a Vitamix.

Happy Monday before Thanksgiving!!

It's Easy Being Green

2011-11-15T10:48:00.000-06:00

She wanted them. So I made them.

My healthy version, my best try at least, of this.

In the Summer of 2010, my daughter Courtney and I watched almost every. single. Giada. cooking show. on Food Network. Nice mom and daughter binding time. Tons of Giada love. We learned pretty quickly that Giada uses fresh lemons, and fresh squeezed lemons. A lot.

But no lemons added here.

Healthier how...?

sprayed lightly with my Misto-like-no chemicals-canola spray (see below)
instead of pancetta, Courtney likes to add 6 veggie sausage links, cut up
used 2% cheeses
didn't add the extra tbsp oil
we used the crumbly, crusty, fresh-from-the-bakery style Italian bread

I didn't use the food processor either. Just melted the unsalted butter in a bowl via
microwave. Added other ingredients to bowl. Placed on top of bread, roasted at 350* for ~ 8 minutes.

Getting our greens in (antioxidants, vitamin A & more) + smidgen of canola oil (heart healthy) + reduced fat dairy (& a protein) + veggie sausage (more protein) + white bread (ww bread just doesn't go w/everything) = F-I-L-L-I-N-G!

Needing to add a little fruit to your snack?

Nonfat Greek yogurt (protein), freshly squeezed lime juice (naturally tart), couple shavings of white chocolate (hint of sweet treat), 1/2 c frozen mixed berries (natural sweetness, antioxidants, much needed vitamin/minerals) defrosted, doused w/tbsp poppy seeds (fiber).

Recently I enjoyed a Pampered Chef event at a friends' home. I've tried the Misto before but wanted to try the Pampered chef version-

Plan to try the Mix 'N Chop too..

Check out the kitchen table, her husband MADE it!

1 Potato, 2 Potato, Make Me Some More

2011-11-10T11:41:00.000-06:00

I am always looking for healthy, delicious meals and snacks to satisfy my children's ravenous hunger during the school week.

Requirements include: thermos-able, or room temperature, not leaky, and filling.
Not easy. But...

A new recipe that works has.been.found -

Quinoa Salad w/ Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Kale, Dried Cranberries, & Red Onion

Thank You - Two Peas & Their Pod

The only thing I did different was to use regular quinoa instead of black. Quinoa=slight nutty flavor similar to couscous, good source of protein and fiber.

The smell of roasting sweet potatoes & olive oil early in the morning helps to wake them up for school!

King Creole

2011-11-07T08:06:00.000-06:00

I love picking up a bargain, don't you? Taking home that treasured find that you just know, no one else has. That's how I felt in the early '90's, when I took home that glossy covered Southern Living cookbook I bought at an estate sale. I thought..recipes galore! No more thinking about what's for dinner!

Yeah. Well. So much for that. The only recipe that ever worked out was one for shrimp creole but over the years I gradually tweaked the recipe into my own vegetable creole.

And yes, that is uncooked okra on top. The cooked okra was so buried into the saucy goodness but I still wanted you to see it!

I used a half white-half brown mix of rice. It's such a southern dish...all brown rice just wouldn't be right.

You'll love it, a tasty alternative to a meat-full meal. Serve with crusty garlic bread. And I no longer have that glossy covered cookbook.

Vegetable Creole
Ingredients:
- 1/4 c peanut oil - 1 c water
- 1/4 c all-purpose flour - 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground flaxseed - 1 tsp pepper
- 1 1/2 c chopped onion - 1/2 tsp ground red pepper
- 1 c chopped green onions - 2 bay leaves
- 3 large bell peppers (I used red, yellow, orange) - 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 c sliced okra - 3 Tbsp Worchestershire sauce
- 2 cloves minced garlic - 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 6-oz can tomato paste - 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 14.5-oz can tomato sauce - 4 c cooked rice
- 1 14.5 oz can Italian style tomatoes, diced/undrained

Add oil and flour to large Dutch oven, cook over medium heat until a caramel color roux is achieved; about 15 minutes. Add onions, peppers, okra, and garlic. Cook about 15 more minutes until tender. Stir in tomatoes, sauce, paste, water, salt, both peppers, bay leaves, lemon juice, Worchestershire sauce, hot sauce. Bring to a boil, add fresh okra; simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Stir in fresh parsley. Remove bay leaves. Serve over hot rice.

Four cups of rice is usually what I start with. Sometimes I end up making more rice, sometimes I end up freezing the leftover sauce. Depends on how busy the family was that day :)

Family in town recently-neices, nephews, in-laws. Nice catching up with you guys!

Don't you love my daughter's boots?!