tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10801670391726251582024-03-21T09:32:12.034-07:00Eat Food Not JunkNicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-72085201553872829152009-09-24T02:45:00.000-07:002009-09-24T03:09:34.014-07:00What Do You Do with 10 Lbs. of Carrots?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3k_SjapXYUuu86MuUW7Su7K01Kv66Ev0uTx23seCrshtDmMaA9pTOcxSE9rwzoTRFI_O-PGWbTactUs_gP-BGnm4OmhZUJePZV12lZut8L24p89wQIKu-E1fkw-riPxwzOQelAH5C2u5j/s1600-h/IMG_2835.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3k_SjapXYUuu86MuUW7Su7K01Kv66Ev0uTx23seCrshtDmMaA9pTOcxSE9rwzoTRFI_O-PGWbTactUs_gP-BGnm4OmhZUJePZV12lZut8L24p89wQIKu-E1fkw-riPxwzOQelAH5C2u5j/s400/IMG_2835.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384970968040088258" border="0" /></a>Shred them.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1MJB2JwbuUWueyO_34zKgjm1EI8tpgKXi4rpPOPYn2tZsnPOnYfpboguDx2-65tCSj_jgxr-y26HKk6dqCjBcFSZrOTiZj76k3qz4VXu63hLGu16Js50dJPsfWG7uaFIqLsKPcTEqZSI/s1600-h/IMG_2805.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1MJB2JwbuUWueyO_34zKgjm1EI8tpgKXi4rpPOPYn2tZsnPOnYfpboguDx2-65tCSj_jgxr-y26HKk6dqCjBcFSZrOTiZj76k3qz4VXu63hLGu16Js50dJPsfWG7uaFIqLsKPcTEqZSI/s400/IMG_2805.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384971161189968642" border="0" /></a>Stare at them.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBpAAOg7V2wrLtBL-4BTlCLWUfMcza1dqUNb3zkdMfNdt_f__m0fcFczldASkmt-vOQalYpGWEHaHGuirdhyphenhyphengcgVbzO88iP6l3Jsd7sbAX2DqdEmobnkuizZtF0w-UOjy2pqZNStetN-s/s1600-h/IMG_2825.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBpAAOg7V2wrLtBL-4BTlCLWUfMcza1dqUNb3zkdMfNdt_f__m0fcFczldASkmt-vOQalYpGWEHaHGuirdhyphenhyphengcgVbzO88iP6l3Jsd7sbAX2DqdEmobnkuizZtF0w-UOjy2pqZNStetN-s/s400/IMG_2825.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384971158278893602" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMgkFH7y-Gbpg4sLK1Wv6IywZo8nQ6hTo5ECFWIovX9UdBEqGaZ-KopL1PO39owW1iq3zUyxNWPTE4eXuD_6LDRmYUQpN0nxOi64vjeetyS_SjD6VApJ8IC_y_AOwtyi4vaZ6CB8tK8GBQ/s1600-h/IMG_2826.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMgkFH7y-Gbpg4sLK1Wv6IywZo8nQ6hTo5ECFWIovX9UdBEqGaZ-KopL1PO39owW1iq3zUyxNWPTE4eXuD_6LDRmYUQpN0nxOi64vjeetyS_SjD6VApJ8IC_y_AOwtyi4vaZ6CB8tK8GBQ/s400/IMG_2826.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384970975083874802" border="0" /></a>Finally make something.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEQQeN7OLtZxKoL4k3XXGlq9J680fYnUAsu23cePqh-7rK3dshHWIRyf6yRXaQN_6aw-7yyOZ2UXVEvCBH2Bv_IMc5kAshdmuZoBF50CWdJjcU6YbgNIRSfuieaAJ9JUqBI-_PxFHjWZaO/s1600-h/IMG_2837.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEQQeN7OLtZxKoL4k3XXGlq9J680fYnUAsu23cePqh-7rK3dshHWIRyf6yRXaQN_6aw-7yyOZ2UXVEvCBH2Bv_IMc5kAshdmuZoBF50CWdJjcU6YbgNIRSfuieaAJ9JUqBI-_PxFHjWZaO/s400/IMG_2837.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384970962973796354" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfB1Lhx_C2NDI1BxTUjWuzxJUsUfnwxZkuozvrxR42Pr9CwQgCvksp0qopAsasvXH764hoMAQPtllGpJsGpjr77ZbHNI8k7AQRX3jpgT-wTTHSUcIQ0vjF9HVnR_W_KXpgClccABOvUm0/s1600-h/IMG_2840.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfB1Lhx_C2NDI1BxTUjWuzxJUsUfnwxZkuozvrxR42Pr9CwQgCvksp0qopAsasvXH764hoMAQPtllGpJsGpjr77ZbHNI8k7AQRX3jpgT-wTTHSUcIQ0vjF9HVnR_W_KXpgClccABOvUm0/s400/IMG_2840.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384970956751247330" border="0" /></a>And maybe, just maybe, the construction workers next door that you take some warm carrot cookies to will give your little helpers a couple bucks to spend.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUajydI_waIrbyBeDujxDYdFPHBbRFN1tfNkluE2cXFgEpeycC3jyOaDI_tSPoWyMbWBrPo1yBhICWJNaJN-2ZsA8qRvpBbeJi8PXn6in2MYEIxkfY0-9MbnN43b8-H32ZdVlOF4pTvudj/s1600-h/IMG_2843.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUajydI_waIrbyBeDujxDYdFPHBbRFN1tfNkluE2cXFgEpeycC3jyOaDI_tSPoWyMbWBrPo1yBhICWJNaJN-2ZsA8qRvpBbeJi8PXn6in2MYEIxkfY0-9MbnN43b8-H32ZdVlOF4pTvudj/s400/IMG_2843.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384970945039571058" border="0" /></a>Here's the awesome recipe: lots of carrot, fall spices, raisins, and oats. Of course I contributed to the "less sugar than called for" and added white whole wheat flour. A great fall snack for you and your kiddies.<br /><br /><br /><div class="ms-col2-recipe-ingredients"> <h2>Ingredients</h2> <ul><li>1 cup packed light-brown sugar (I used 1/2 to 3/4 c.)<br /></li><li>1 cup granulated sugar (I used 1/2 to 3/4 c.)</li><li>1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature</li><li>2 large eggs, room temperature</li><li>1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</li><li>2 cups all-purpose flour (I put half whole wheat flour in)<br /></li><li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li><li>1 teaspoon baking powder</li><li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li><li>1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</li><li>1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg</li><li>1/2 teaspoon ground ginger</li><li>2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats</li><li>1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots, (about 3 large carrots)</li><li>1 cup raisins</li></ul> </div> <h2>Directions</h2> <ol><li> <span>Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two baking sheets with Silpat baking mats or parchment paper, and set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine sugars and butter; beat until light and fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla, and beat on medium speed until well combined.</span> </li><li> <span>In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger; stir to combine. Gradually add flour to butter mixture; mix on a low speed until just blended. Mix in oats, carrots, and raisins. Chill dough in refrigerator until firm, at least 1 hour.</span> </li><li> <span>Using a 1/2-ounce ice-cream scoop, scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between cookies. Transfer to oven, and bake until browned and crisped, rotating pan halfway through baking to ensure even color, 12 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. Repeat baking process with remaining dough.<br /></span></li></ol><span style="font-size:78%;">(Recipe courtesy MarthaStewart.com)</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-71262597994237793922009-09-18T03:31:00.000-07:002009-09-18T04:47:51.018-07:00A Day in the life of...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifneXZa4BvvlS8jZqGwZloH90Qu-SKOCWzJFVjSlvEtSGijs8JHohRej3j7iC-01emjpNCSKEg_M61cZx0HvEDuglwbWvAyPcFnM9qIPy57-4hRodi1bCiC2zB-iMH5GDKOUff4HNOiAeQ/s1600-h/IMG_2344.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifneXZa4BvvlS8jZqGwZloH90Qu-SKOCWzJFVjSlvEtSGijs8JHohRej3j7iC-01emjpNCSKEg_M61cZx0HvEDuglwbWvAyPcFnM9qIPy57-4hRodi1bCiC2zB-iMH5GDKOUff4HNOiAeQ/s400/IMG_2344.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756212550649074" border="0" /></a>With so many meals and snacks served up in a day of a bustling household, I thought I'd give you peak into our food world, on a random day of the week: Thursday.<br /><br />After a typical egg/toast breakfast and morning baby-feedings, the girls and I make these awesome whole grain cookies (which will now replace our standard chocolate chip cookie. Bonus? Check out the nutritional facts at the end.)<br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-size:130%;">"Nutty for Oats Cookies"</span><br /><br /></span>2/3 creamy peanut butter<br />4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened<br />3/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar<br />1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />1/4 teaspoon baking soda<br />2 large eggs<br />1 cup rolled oats, ground for 30 seconds in a food processor<br />1 1/2 cups rolled oats<br />2 cups bittersweet chocolate chips<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"></span><br /><br />Preheat oven to 350ยบ. Lightly grease 2 baking sheets or line with parchment paper.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbG0e7Fbp3N1LM0rxA2vJQhFMEWUu9pC-eL_XJOkxxH8Wa6eXN167tP-JeSVqoyIv2wFUeAbETdF7sZbjpj0dpLAWCNch2z9OSIH66ORZv2I8AaWEzKBT0REaN0RWzooqJu60sub5ltTvr/s1600-h/IMG_2260.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbG0e7Fbp3N1LM0rxA2vJQhFMEWUu9pC-eL_XJOkxxH8Wa6eXN167tP-JeSVqoyIv2wFUeAbETdF7sZbjpj0dpLAWCNch2z9OSIH66ORZv2I8AaWEzKBT0REaN0RWzooqJu60sub5ltTvr/s400/IMG_2260.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756450612379234" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">(Grinding the oats which will <span style="font-style: italic;">become</span> the flour adds so much more flavor and texture to the cookie than ordinary flour.)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOr5nzuIWpt_rMtmGdJSIN7iUXmRwxiy-kSfzXIpeHOngWQy_5tpGidaAaYGHj6j0TszaD3lZzArPDF6w0pVuqWANyp1F7-C8-m7fA_oAL2P6e8PCrmekzo39yhdUvZ2i8_m3i2acCf-6x/s1600-h/IMG_2266.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOr5nzuIWpt_rMtmGdJSIN7iUXmRwxiy-kSfzXIpeHOngWQy_5tpGidaAaYGHj6j0TszaD3lZzArPDF6w0pVuqWANyp1F7-C8-m7fA_oAL2P6e8PCrmekzo39yhdUvZ2i8_m3i2acCf-6x/s400/IMG_2266.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756446018222578" border="0" /></a>Cream the peanut butter, butter, sugar, vanilla, salt and baking soda in a medium bowl. Beat in the eggs, scraping the bowl once they're incorporated, then the ground oats, old fashioned rolled oats and chocolate chips. Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKUr3CZith528JY9Armtuhvo5mPA8V3QNss4r_QaMMD0ssCgm9xvJjygBIfMBIsNPbBTqltXmiqYxSDfJZ-3s0peTvHsnZSENf71toEcBDXbAEP4-Nq1BvPYEzbrPV3Xc4FLI01kR3PTL/s1600-h/IMG_2269.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKUr3CZith528JY9Armtuhvo5mPA8V3QNss4r_QaMMD0ssCgm9xvJjygBIfMBIsNPbBTqltXmiqYxSDfJZ-3s0peTvHsnZSENf71toEcBDXbAEP4-Nq1BvPYEzbrPV3Xc4FLI01kR3PTL/s400/IMG_2269.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756441455451090" border="0" /></a>Bake the cookies, reversing pans midway through (top to bottom, bottom to top), until they're barely set and just beginning to brown around the edges, 11 to 13 minutes. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on the pans.<br /><br />Nutritional Information <span style="font-style: italic;">per cookie: </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">7g whole grain</span>s, <span style="font-weight: bold;">131 cal</span>, 7g fat, 3g protein, 5g complex <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">carbs</span>, 10g sugar, 1g dietary fiber (my MC says 2), 14mg cholesterol, 64mg sodium, 99mg potassium, 14RE vitamin A, 1mg iron, 11mg calcium, 62mg phosphorous, 7mg caffeine.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AIwND3OaWFUOwyYrzModtDWmxuIJk_zIYB19wJfAlD9Ylqf6oI5NWYyh2R3YZU1algDF5KRd9kONWYTwMGWSMsZwXPgBbbFr8w62Cay3Cb8fuELVVvvz85ooWSrk2-nQ7lfBCAoHpoML/s1600-h/IMG_2284.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AIwND3OaWFUOwyYrzModtDWmxuIJk_zIYB19wJfAlD9Ylqf6oI5NWYyh2R3YZU1algDF5KRd9kONWYTwMGWSMsZwXPgBbbFr8w62Cay3Cb8fuELVVvvz85ooWSrk2-nQ7lfBCAoHpoML/s400/IMG_2284.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756432558072066" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9oWvEbA6onZ5qcCdDY8Q_YpRL4-8rbGLlXF1aL5v5eqWkaQMpom-wA7o2hOgV-QolkLYLHUUkq-Q7tyjMtITeWgfC3oS3MfGkoKdWNT9l7ltcH8cjX1trwYQP9-ZEaA1jyb5w_-5g6Vir/s1600-h/IMG_2324.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9oWvEbA6onZ5qcCdDY8Q_YpRL4-8rbGLlXF1aL5v5eqWkaQMpom-wA7o2hOgV-QolkLYLHUUkq-Q7tyjMtITeWgfC3oS3MfGkoKdWNT9l7ltcH8cjX1trwYQP9-ZEaA1jyb5w_-5g6Vir/s400/IMG_2324.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756226265165202" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">(Babies shootin' the breeze in the kitchen while we bake.)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Lunch: Chicken Salad Wraps</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8V5fbBqexsiWz11G3tg-y-Qg8mUq58xmoeptKvNkIp9DbyrFi36AToWNbCqcVpv424HxTZ0pH-y14leAQH36SJPkiG4EmrVtTtoycbtTqQt0B9leOwR9QK31l9FxI2DqM-IZtTnKs4k6/s1600-h/IMG_2302.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8V5fbBqexsiWz11G3tg-y-Qg8mUq58xmoeptKvNkIp9DbyrFi36AToWNbCqcVpv424HxTZ0pH-y14leAQH36SJPkiG4EmrVtTtoycbtTqQt0B9leOwR9QK31l9FxI2DqM-IZtTnKs4k6/s400/IMG_2302.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756232926635682" border="0" /></a>Chicken shredded (we use Costco's premium canned chicken--excellent!), mayo, 2 TBSP prepared pesto, 1/2 c. chopped sun dried tomatoes (in oil), Italian seasoning, onion powder, and salt and pepper, to taste.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY0Y1A96yLtgqz_7lR-7K6a0sN7DWFAkllEE_1PDLu1aIRzImicLaJViXLyKwdBP7531rMD0_dEdG1_uy1xoKcdBxnQubhqgOfxq4OacIt8-fmHb7lX9k6t77FC0Jhs4VRiTbuCmvNmW8d/s1600-h/IMG_2330.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY0Y1A96yLtgqz_7lR-7K6a0sN7DWFAkllEE_1PDLu1aIRzImicLaJViXLyKwdBP7531rMD0_dEdG1_uy1xoKcdBxnQubhqgOfxq4OacIt8-fmHb7lX9k6t77FC0Jhs4VRiTbuCmvNmW8d/s400/IMG_2330.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756218033432050" border="0" /></a>Then we wrapped a thin layer of the chicken salad in flat bread wraps,<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqwoG3tnr8CjOu48YJNAZUXCsjuc4WSWsu0K-GKdR9AkcKcw1f4HnBZFMb9gx2dnjuM_KCjaE4zLPiEYfDuNFagA-gq9ZdtTuF5-D3XrWSxr2ZpkWrDtPPRiF9Wwt90Bem5Xw4IK1LkWc7/s1600-h/IMG_2352.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqwoG3tnr8CjOu48YJNAZUXCsjuc4WSWsu0K-GKdR9AkcKcw1f4HnBZFMb9gx2dnjuM_KCjaE4zLPiEYfDuNFagA-gq9ZdtTuF5-D3XrWSxr2ZpkWrDtPPRiF9Wwt90Bem5Xw4IK1LkWc7/s400/IMG_2352.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382761919252884290" border="0" /></a>added apple slices and our <a href="http://www.foodshouldtastegood.com/#/multigrain/">favorite chips</a> (that's for another post),<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifneXZa4BvvlS8jZqGwZloH90Qu-SKOCWzJFVjSlvEtSGijs8JHohRej3j7iC-01emjpNCSKEg_M61cZx0HvEDuglwbWvAyPcFnM9qIPy57-4hRodi1bCiC2zB-iMH5GDKOUff4HNOiAeQ/s1600-h/IMG_2344.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifneXZa4BvvlS8jZqGwZloH90Qu-SKOCWzJFVjSlvEtSGijs8JHohRej3j7iC-01emjpNCSKEg_M61cZx0HvEDuglwbWvAyPcFnM9qIPy57-4hRodi1bCiC2zB-iMH5GDKOUff4HNOiAeQ/s400/IMG_2344.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756212550649074" border="0" /></a>and you have a break from the everyday ham, tomato and cheese sandwich.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Lastly, dinner. </span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6inMrYRHjFrnOC9j08EE2ncRtOJRSONGENbMfAbECZ_pnXxsbj8PO2ho1VkHQNWhptOtg0IIQ-qc8GiTaghYUusXqgJwWyWJokmdkj3Es2hnN7pKN7VclU0O1SGyMqyXmoIjPVJll_Kl5/s1600-h/IMG_2373.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6inMrYRHjFrnOC9j08EE2ncRtOJRSONGENbMfAbECZ_pnXxsbj8PO2ho1VkHQNWhptOtg0IIQ-qc8GiTaghYUusXqgJwWyWJokmdkj3Es2hnN7pKN7VclU0O1SGyMqyXmoIjPVJll_Kl5/s400/IMG_2373.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382756205653709010" border="0" /></a>One of my favorite fall dinners to bring in the new season: pumpkin soup.<br /><br />Here is the recipe from the top of my head which is the "doubled" version so you can freeze the rest for a colder wintry day.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pumpkin Soup</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">(Serves 8-9)</span><br /><br />1 really large onion, chopped (or two large)<br />4 c. pumpkin puree<br />1 tsp. curry powder<br />5 c. chicken broth<br />1/4 c. butter<br />1/8 c. olive oil<br />3 tsp. salt<br />3 c. heavy cream<br />1 c. milk<br /><br />Saute onions in both the butter and oil. (You always want to saute in both butter and oil for optimal flavor.) Once they are translucent, add the curry.<br /><br />Add the pumpkin and salt and remove from the stove. Puree the mixture in a blender or food processor. Bring back to a stock pot and add the stock until warmed. Finally add the cream and milk until also warmed and serve.<br /><br />To garnish: a dollop of sour cream and a dash of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">cinnamon</span>. Children are the most excited about the add-ons in any soup. Let them help serve.<br /><br /><br />There you have it: happy faces and satisfied tummies. Another day gone and another to create.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-44446621129371554732009-09-10T04:26:00.000-07:002009-09-10T04:46:10.988-07:00The last of Summer's Crop<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSb6K2HZZBU1dzqx9MI_WNJslqMSF2zaNRSEp02bcxwYBWFtRjKWkVyGa3IV55ifX4R0qhsStrC1dQIxKNHUdRMBm32xpIUupnNw-QDphnn8d3eTsJQ-bRS7q1YUqRdSnY3p3BosYNkTb/s1600-h/IMG_0969.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSb6K2HZZBU1dzqx9MI_WNJslqMSF2zaNRSEp02bcxwYBWFtRjKWkVyGa3IV55ifX4R0qhsStrC1dQIxKNHUdRMBm32xpIUupnNw-QDphnn8d3eTsJQ-bRS7q1YUqRdSnY3p3BosYNkTb/s400/IMG_0969.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379799288882906706" border="0" /></a>After being <a href="http://exclusivelyshiffler.blogspot.com/2009/09/summers-crop-meets-september.html">inspired by earth's bounty</a> through most of my senses, there was one remaining. And this dish was served up to satisfy, now, all of my senses.<br /><h2>Ingredients</h2> <!--concordance-begin--> <span style="display: none;" class="nocoupons">nocoupons</span><ul><li>4 cups chopped yellow onions (3 onions)</li><li>1/8 cup good olive oil</li><li>1/8 cup minced garlic (2 cloves)</li><li>2 red bell peppers, cored, seeded, and large-diced</li><li>21 yellow bell peppers, cored, seeded, and large-diced</li><li>1 teaspoon chili powder</li><li>1 teaspoon ground cumin</li><li>1/4 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes, or to taste</li><li>1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste</li><li>2 teaspoons kosher salt</li><li>2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled plum tomatoes in puree, undrained</li><li>1/4 cup minced fresh basil leaves</li><li>5-6 cooked chicken breast cut into strips<br /></li><li>Freshly ground black pepper </li></ul> <h3>For serving:</h3> <span style="display: none;" class="nocoupons">nocoupons</span><ul><li>Chopped corn chips, grated cheddar, sour cream</li></ul> <!--concordance-end--> <h2><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QQ0J2ugyMDTaEqzwlrrobrx01b4sQa-8nT2UBuE7umGegaCQ0uLzpRN_G4oh9hXb7gFs9TM1DuCo4xwpTPSxEoifuVU6i_v6A6nlkqFIkpG6hBMev0Nxvr9G-E7MrGGRl9aEVGpmj9Mo/s1600-h/IMG_0972.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QQ0J2ugyMDTaEqzwlrrobrx01b4sQa-8nT2UBuE7umGegaCQ0uLzpRN_G4oh9hXb7gFs9TM1DuCo4xwpTPSxEoifuVU6i_v6A6nlkqFIkpG6hBMev0Nxvr9G-E7MrGGRl9aEVGpmj9Mo/s400/IMG_0972.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379798919890916930" border="0" /></a></h2><h2>Directions</h2> <p> Cook the onions in the oil over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Add the bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, cayenne, and salt. Cook for 1 minute. Crush the tomatoes by hand or in batches in a food processor fitted with a steel blade (pulse 6 to 8 times). Add to the pot with the basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.</p><p> Add cooked chicken to the chili and simmer, uncovered, for another 20 minutes. Serve with the toppings, or refrigerate and reheat gently before serving. </p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJewKQzPaiQY64-gVvedt3iWD0FUI4shNLsAs35cZUczSj4raNBnT-vSSJ0YN55FgB-W0Pinpl2d06rYLIbJuiDB56ZOL6QwMmlgUcRtfdSo0cLgzJyKQnsllqI2d5RgF7FPBf6hBynhd7/s1600-h/IMG_1021.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJewKQzPaiQY64-gVvedt3iWD0FUI4shNLsAs35cZUczSj4raNBnT-vSSJ0YN55FgB-W0Pinpl2d06rYLIbJuiDB56ZOL6QwMmlgUcRtfdSo0cLgzJyKQnsllqI2d5RgF7FPBf6hBynhd7/s400/IMG_1021.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379798930065567298" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxv1yA1hlu4DWLmwO50_117AsyMA0eLkuqlQtrKvMn39j1-nho1BxioLwcWuMGWmB5imzIBvS4g4MJ0hkQeCo_v2xqXbbn_YG7zl31FBr2PRGnRdxu8s2hsRHBq_7ofWJ4OgzQGwrryNa/s1600-h/IMG_1023.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxv1yA1hlu4DWLmwO50_117AsyMA0eLkuqlQtrKvMn39j1-nho1BxioLwcWuMGWmB5imzIBvS4g4MJ0hkQeCo_v2xqXbbn_YG7zl31FBr2PRGnRdxu8s2hsRHBq_7ofWJ4OgzQGwrryNa/s400/IMG_1023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379798923910718482" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><br />Adapted from Barefoot Contessa's Chicken Chili</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-39698978466244732422009-09-08T09:40:00.000-07:002009-09-08T10:38:11.968-07:00If You Really Like Pecans<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYImpncJT64lpDZ1HYI8REUqLns4B3y242NEJb46EGRmzokb1gQwWBCxTcKa5UKQ0TvYvY1UwqvTUfUK_2YCoweRqkfEBTQZDbMRUsFEpX-X8fzxMoU8dEpjCylawyL3P8A77-j1swzxE1/s1600-h/IMG_1627.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYImpncJT64lpDZ1HYI8REUqLns4B3y242NEJb46EGRmzokb1gQwWBCxTcKa5UKQ0TvYvY1UwqvTUfUK_2YCoweRqkfEBTQZDbMRUsFEpX-X8fzxMoU8dEpjCylawyL3P8A77-j1swzxE1/s400/IMG_1627.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379139415619685250" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpERiNL8xJQ6k4s4cLUNazUv16-odxhbZiXBwQnogGeEXdiWn5WjCMaYxVuSu4sjXymMqEC0NuJwCoAd-A6Ncnp3tN8QlELZyDXjb3oCv74MIjbu4X8yTK9kLJJfqaU1JpV4OVydyL1YL/s1600-h/IMG_1642.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpERiNL8xJQ6k4s4cLUNazUv16-odxhbZiXBwQnogGeEXdiWn5WjCMaYxVuSu4sjXymMqEC0NuJwCoAd-A6Ncnp3tN8QlELZyDXjb3oCv74MIjbu4X8yTK9kLJJfqaU1JpV4OVydyL1YL/s400/IMG_1642.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379139401177449410" border="0" /></a><br />These Pecan Squares are one of our family's favorite treats that we make only for special occasions, probably because it calls for so many pecans. They are chewy, crunchy, and intense with flavor from the shortbread crust and honey-brown sugared pecan topping.<br /><br />The recipe makes a ton which is one of the many reasons I love them. Count on using a full pan of these for multiple <a href="http://exclusivelyshiffler.blogspot.com/2009/09/laboring.html">entertaining events</a> you may have in a row. Or enjoy them as a family for a long week!<br /><h2>Ingredients</h2> <!--concordance-begin--> <h3>Crust:</h3> <span style="display: none;" class="nocoupons">nocoupons</span> <ul><li>1 1/4 pounds unsalted butter, room temperature</li><li>3/4 cup granulated sugar</li><li>3 extra-large eggs</li><li>3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</li><li>4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour</li><li>1/2 teaspoon baking powder</li><li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li></ul> <h3>Topping:</h3> <span style="display: none;" class="nocoupons">nocoupons</span> <ul><li>1 pound unsalted butter</li><li>1 cup good honey</li><li>3 cups light brown sugar, packed</li><li>1 teaspoon grated lemon zest</li><li>1 teaspoon grated orange zest</li><li>1/4 cup heavy cream</li><li>2 pounds pecans, coarsely chopped</li></ul> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0jSGOrHXk2e3bJRldXwzUJ8wJKb0JT_1lFBuUjibnBQm3SCnH7Lt_D0VRJn-1ChK4mHwlEnrHGr5-7koYXv6DAZhe0Iyej_2rYff264b_RgBwxyJkxNjmgarnvpnHJs7jVaiFRlkTVOZ/s1600-h/IMG_1601.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0jSGOrHXk2e3bJRldXwzUJ8wJKb0JT_1lFBuUjibnBQm3SCnH7Lt_D0VRJn-1ChK4mHwlEnrHGr5-7koYXv6DAZhe0Iyej_2rYff264b_RgBwxyJkxNjmgarnvpnHJs7jVaiFRlkTVOZ/s400/IMG_1601.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379142464253190834" border="0" /></a><h2>Directions</h2> <p> Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. </p> <p>For the crust, beat the butter and granulated sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, until light, approximately 3 minutes. Add the eggs and the vanilla and mix well. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients into the batter with the mixer on low speed until just combined. Press the dough evenly into an ungreased 18 by 12 by 1-inch baking sheet, making an edge around the outside. It will be very sticky; sprinkle the dough and your hands lightly with flour. Bake for 15 minutes, until the crust is set but not browned. Allow to cool. </p> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHROU1_Dyp_F8CZr9u_qzPCyDqB9L5p-Ss3HzwQ3Rf2_XvN3thf90qjKRFHNLyJ7gTXe6QXlhx6Ou2TOQV8DKwrXjo_iy9a3I0nygqw_gEtUBpKS8wf-ttpQS4fN4MUaEBeCssz57EI7S/s1600-h/IMG_1600.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHROU1_Dyp_F8CZr9u_qzPCyDqB9L5p-Ss3HzwQ3Rf2_XvN3thf90qjKRFHNLyJ7gTXe6QXlhx6Ou2TOQV8DKwrXjo_iy9a3I0nygqw_gEtUBpKS8wf-ttpQS4fN4MUaEBeCssz57EI7S/s400/IMG_1600.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379142286508619074" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggbHuPxWHvC8j6n8B4wAVweWJGV88EfPvOAw9EcLoD2HA4JKZCjU-YU13zcIbOGx4RuKMqPvWwsrEvurxiYfcwQGKGa0xpQxWRzIC1gOTZ07HRq_Ha9FOqPaNcd1OZrz-NaSEX15C354Ho/s1600-h/IMG_1589.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggbHuPxWHvC8j6n8B4wAVweWJGV88EfPvOAw9EcLoD2HA4JKZCjU-YU13zcIbOGx4RuKMqPvWwsrEvurxiYfcwQGKGa0xpQxWRzIC1gOTZ07HRq_Ha9FOqPaNcd1OZrz-NaSEX15C354Ho/s400/IMG_1589.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379142289850953698" border="0" /></a>(Eat a little dough, here and there...)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMXBNVPGJjcsuo25q2pU8kS1hliZ-pb7IVhKadfQ4K4fdgN9aWec40zjaIdttWbGMeTdKjkPpeRefxbrA2I1ZdXFw3CtiEot0HxHaUaLpKMDm0JuCP18ujNYSLbjtsC7Bkyc6jrdgRXNE/s1600-h/IMG_1606.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMXBNVPGJjcsuo25q2pU8kS1hliZ-pb7IVhKadfQ4K4fdgN9aWec40zjaIdttWbGMeTdKjkPpeRefxbrA2I1ZdXFw3CtiEot0HxHaUaLpKMDm0JuCP18ujNYSLbjtsC7Bkyc6jrdgRXNE/s400/IMG_1606.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379139424352710306" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlcqHlLRY6mASNcjf3osTeGzP6Tc0uVLL9H84HOsSOMDf0fsTkweqmeF-dDnVJFtbCl_uN4BPpvL96Cq_Luz1jQw5TF3OBFB_ek2EpTqa_XFvEfHppSY5sMrbmpWq1oynvYaQ_xxtES5K/s1600-h/IMG_1630.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlcqHlLRY6mASNcjf3osTeGzP6Tc0uVLL9H84HOsSOMDf0fsTkweqmeF-dDnVJFtbCl_uN4BPpvL96Cq_Luz1jQw5TF3OBFB_ek2EpTqa_XFvEfHppSY5sMrbmpWq1oynvYaQ_xxtES5K/s400/IMG_1630.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379139405429407218" border="0" /></a>For the topping, combine the butter, honey, brown sugar, and zests in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Cook over low heat until the butter is melted, using a wooden spoon to stir. Raise the heat and boil for 3 minutes. Remove from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and pecans. Pour over the crust, trying not to get the filling between the crust and the pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the filling is set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until cold. Cut into bars and serve.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpERiNL8xJQ6k4s4cLUNazUv16-odxhbZiXBwQnogGeEXdiWn5WjCMaYxVuSu4sjXymMqEC0NuJwCoAd-A6Ncnp3tN8QlELZyDXjb3oCv74MIjbu4X8yTK9kLJJfqaU1JpV4OVydyL1YL/s1600-h/IMG_1642.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpERiNL8xJQ6k4s4cLUNazUv16-odxhbZiXBwQnogGeEXdiWn5WjCMaYxVuSu4sjXymMqEC0NuJwCoAd-A6Ncnp3tN8QlELZyDXjb3oCv74MIjbu4X8yTK9kLJJfqaU1JpV4OVydyL1YL/s400/IMG_1642.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379139401177449410" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Recipe courtesy of Barefoot Contessa)</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-37343225862165230752009-08-18T03:03:00.000-07:002009-08-20T04:50:16.461-07:00Beat the Heat with Frozen Fruit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpW596439oiaxjROzZyuvwjC5iwo3uH1rOy7O-t-uv_CWynyTkP1eRqQvekE8FL6uK6HvQVDH01ylQdcRmMJQvMUrbq3sd9mXfgpwXy4DvMvpLr1INJKzUr-R5S5UFIzx_oZrARdIwAh_J/s1600-h/PICT0071.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpW596439oiaxjROzZyuvwjC5iwo3uH1rOy7O-t-uv_CWynyTkP1eRqQvekE8FL6uK6HvQVDH01ylQdcRmMJQvMUrbq3sd9mXfgpwXy4DvMvpLr1INJKzUr-R5S5UFIzx_oZrARdIwAh_J/s400/PICT0071.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372004950762360706" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoYPP2WIcNicCTDn6mX95lIpN0h0D9nwEy8aam5_m7aMnqTszidr16YMuJJ19QDSx4Y3vgumgrSgvUtTUc6MBOnCnG1RyK0_3XTTr26W_og4VG9M11EnWAzNHnojgFiyKmohs25ueLG3Tf/s1600-h/PICT0066.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoYPP2WIcNicCTDn6mX95lIpN0h0D9nwEy8aam5_m7aMnqTszidr16YMuJJ19QDSx4Y3vgumgrSgvUtTUc6MBOnCnG1RyK0_3XTTr26W_og4VG9M11EnWAzNHnojgFiyKmohs25ueLG3Tf/s400/PICT0066.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372004944931734978" border="0" /></a>For a mere $3 plus change, you can buy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">popsicle</span> molds (I got mine at Target) and enjoy the rest of the summer by making your own frozen treats.<br /><br />Compare homemade <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">popsicles</span>, of simply pouring your favorite juice into a mold and freezing to these store bought, more expensive pops.<br /><br />Ingredient statement to homemade <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">popsicles</span>: apple juice. (Cranberry and orange are some of our favorites.)<br /><br />Ingredient statements to Otter Pops:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://redyak.com/rants/OVF/Images/OIngredients.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 462px; height: 178px;" src="http://redyak.com/rants/OVF/Images/OIngredients.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>And the typical Popsicle brand pop:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.popsicle.com/images/nutrition/nutrition_popsicle_SMIceAge.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 580px; height: 443px;" src="http://www.popsicle.com/images/nutrition/nutrition_popsicle_SMIceAge.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />A juice pop <span style="font-style: italic;">you</span> make: <br /><br />1 ingredient (from nature)<br />Natural <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">sweetener</span><br />Offers other nutrients (like O.J.'s vitamin C, calcium, and iron)<br /><br /><br />Store bought (comparing last <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">popsicle</span>):<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">17 ingredients!</span><br />3 different <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">sweeteners</span>, 2 in which are cheap and less natural<br />Any <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">popsicle</span> with flavors like "cotton candy" should cause you to stop and reflect.<br /><br />Start a new tradition of including your kids in choosing and pouring the juice. I can tell you that it delights kids in watching the transformation of juice into a frozen treat. Once again, being creative usually brings bonding, memories, and a few extra dollars in your pocket by the end of summer.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-20598126493829791942009-08-14T02:34:00.000-07:002009-08-14T02:57:58.093-07:00The Glorified Leftover<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5IrswNdLeLmZ3VCM1aQwX5ZkJa20Dmc2LrGgVT7QcIOZxD_GMxlfh0aeJV5-7341MjZ10DKaS2JBKf-ve0oy0Fu7FOE79FKEOcpVx3L9kTpXuhGMd1k8FUNBbcp_dvtww-jqx3goA6aLI/s1600-h/PICT0077.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5IrswNdLeLmZ3VCM1aQwX5ZkJa20Dmc2LrGgVT7QcIOZxD_GMxlfh0aeJV5-7341MjZ10DKaS2JBKf-ve0oy0Fu7FOE79FKEOcpVx3L9kTpXuhGMd1k8FUNBbcp_dvtww-jqx3goA6aLI/s400/PICT0077.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369750570479255506" border="0" /></a>In an attempt to explore our world culturally, we had a French dinner the other night.<br /><br />Homemade <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/crepes-recipe/index.html">crepes</a> with Bobby's grilled chicken, broccoli cream sauce to fill. Very decedent.<br />The kids loved watching me fill each crepe slightly, smoothing around to cover, and gently rolling it before placing it in front of them to try.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">(Dessert, of course, were crepes with the ever so gently applied <a href="http://www.nutellausa.com/nutrition.htm">Nutella</a>- that chocolate hazelnut goodness. That stuff is definitely for another post!)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iLlnzpZNCsKdIcm64vt1KV3DeEu7NntCTlemvKSzDQUkzFYO-L2bMgT2fhc21r2PjVk3f2i0A3aFi0-3q7QrkkppwfqmMVEbuaX3ZXAmZCHNlXe2_uaEGeHJtCdxqmLhyphenhyphen4On4IhR-kLT/s1600-h/PICT0063.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iLlnzpZNCsKdIcm64vt1KV3DeEu7NntCTlemvKSzDQUkzFYO-L2bMgT2fhc21r2PjVk3f2i0A3aFi0-3q7QrkkppwfqmMVEbuaX3ZXAmZCHNlXe2_uaEGeHJtCdxqmLhyphenhyphen4On4IhR-kLT/s400/PICT0063.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369750560318276594" border="0" /></a>The best part? With so much leftover filling, the following night I threw in the leftover roasted herb potatoes, chopped, a little more milk and chicken broth, and Voila! An awesome hardy, quite flavorful soup/chowder.<br /><br />Because the chicken had been <span style="font-style: italic;">grilled</span>, potatoes <span style="font-style: italic;">roasted</span>, there was an elevated level of flavor when combined in the soup and allowed to simmer together.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Think <span style="font-style: italic;">beyond</span> tonight's dinner.</span> Can you take one more step in it's prep to transform the leftovers tomorrow night?Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-22242551018079688362009-08-11T03:36:00.000-07:002009-08-11T04:27:31.895-07:00Create An Edible Still Life<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqxg42A_cMNPHNQGVe9YzEKNqDC4xSC7oRbX3j-kN5AXFVC3DcR-8pzs3jpsJzYc1N7qmXDH0LynIMxITb-2LwGUhijduWCGPqLXX9EM5sWE_kU8byjLZSxuDUu4uQ6QCL6yi0sPcV6X5/s1600-h/picasso7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqxg42A_cMNPHNQGVe9YzEKNqDC4xSC7oRbX3j-kN5AXFVC3DcR-8pzs3jpsJzYc1N7qmXDH0LynIMxITb-2LwGUhijduWCGPqLXX9EM5sWE_kU8byjLZSxuDUu4uQ6QCL6yi0sPcV6X5/s400/picasso7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368657072211464306" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoIJO1qkkeQcG9ij5d-yun-S5ililZRK976Bb8JPDLpWOrxsnZs029w8lEgxHdOPn-fVvweyNIVioVZT1jQoEm7J2rI0x2rZ3-yffD2aU8BwgYTWeezwfx-0ulphdUHv9QzWFl8FXQcCFe/s1600-h/manet54.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 242px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoIJO1qkkeQcG9ij5d-yun-S5ililZRK976Bb8JPDLpWOrxsnZs029w8lEgxHdOPn-fVvweyNIVioVZT1jQoEm7J2rI0x2rZ3-yffD2aU8BwgYTWeezwfx-0ulphdUHv9QzWFl8FXQcCFe/s400/manet54.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368657065094694322" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVny4GcxOS1omZHCf9F6V7NH9UG5kYjC147aTc9lw56YP1PzUIpwS6FaK1kDDcg9pe5LCOXQrXoAgSQ2OsDE4iwMurExCN03epLC82iJolrfTV16pjD5AjTRaO4aWBc91yhVYruOSA8cZY/s1600-h/f_0103.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVny4GcxOS1omZHCf9F6V7NH9UG5kYjC147aTc9lw56YP1PzUIpwS6FaK1kDDcg9pe5LCOXQrXoAgSQ2OsDE4iwMurExCN03epLC82iJolrfTV16pjD5AjTRaO4aWBc91yhVYruOSA8cZY/s400/f_0103.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368657064678577666" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NVmspNWBK3S-mhdijIP3hq-8V5FnKxkC5Wn-dwIB8UuqUW0CpXMnufgLUYMTXz2tSg6qUkvqOQuvCUcCtv30YjHIriM-eDWlXtcY6iRRCKfyM_O3uueiwMJW2-HUH0pTKfOBvQJ2bS5D/s1600-h/ME0000089979_3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 332px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NVmspNWBK3S-mhdijIP3hq-8V5FnKxkC5Wn-dwIB8UuqUW0CpXMnufgLUYMTXz2tSg6qUkvqOQuvCUcCtv30YjHIriM-eDWlXtcY6iRRCKfyM_O3uueiwMJW2-HUH0pTKfOBvQJ2bS5D/s400/ME0000089979_3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368657057903717986" border="0" /></a><br /><br />If you've ever studied art history, you would remember the redundant studies on fruit as still life. Above Picasso, Manet, Van Gogh and, my favorite, Cezanne, turn the ordinary into artful masterpieces. <br /><br />In our house, maybe because <span style="font-style: italic;">I am</span> an art history major, I like to do the same, without all of the acrylic paint, that is.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKzCtixb8AbaLSjxvIATggmTfR1F2KFYOOgHt_bmCgHmPGeHD_qwl6ANpctHyf0Sfz0v4k0dyFIbOLUNTs6M-XIMAt3CD4wHqOB-2m6N5YeeCR-q8gxP3GzjvWtEZ7KcnfXr_bo-92YgT6/s1600-h/PICT0066.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKzCtixb8AbaLSjxvIATggmTfR1F2KFYOOgHt_bmCgHmPGeHD_qwl6ANpctHyf0Sfz0v4k0dyFIbOLUNTs6M-XIMAt3CD4wHqOB-2m6N5YeeCR-q8gxP3GzjvWtEZ7KcnfXr_bo-92YgT6/s400/PICT0066.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368653470568104514" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25i6yx4cmLbPWxTFL6HJttAp-4Tm7ZngzxY2UGzoi-E8KBwUgNAK1CnLBj91nUfH4DZ21tLr6E3TMZpSlsKkj-p9dLBsV2GJEJgsFSkMTxi5toTyceco1Ez7pwslgEj66vsYkTKvnhIz3/s1600-h/PICT0076.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25i6yx4cmLbPWxTFL6HJttAp-4Tm7ZngzxY2UGzoi-E8KBwUgNAK1CnLBj91nUfH4DZ21tLr6E3TMZpSlsKkj-p9dLBsV2GJEJgsFSkMTxi5toTyceco1Ez7pwslgEj66vsYkTKvnhIz3/s400/PICT0076.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368653466757372082" border="0" /></a>It is tradition here that after buying produce we arrange the rainbow of goodness onto a white <a href="http://www.target.com/Mini-Rectangular-Platter/dp/B0011ECOJO/ref=br_1_7?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=332156011&node=332156011&searchRank=salesrank&searchPage=5&searchSize=30&id=Mini%20Rectangular%20Platter">platter</a>. <span style="font-size:85%;">(White serving dishes are best to show off food--think of all the fancy restaurants you've been to; they always serve on white dishes.)</span><br />The kids get involved in unwrapping each category of fruit and displaying it, while I make sure the more tender fruit/veggies are on the top of the arrangement. Fruit gets one platter, vegetables, another.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5UW9BTVFmfBq8BmQIp9CEMtJXBstdETkNpkvMzrx5-Sv463zAhkeSh1maGL9Lz27-yFjzh3w-s3FpWXMIx1BdUWAJ8KhVTFO5rKk1uO3GLL7E-IhLv3b-BFFJeNKJpa-aS_cZuAatFhZM/s1600-h/PICT0072.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5UW9BTVFmfBq8BmQIp9CEMtJXBstdETkNpkvMzrx5-Sv463zAhkeSh1maGL9Lz27-yFjzh3w-s3FpWXMIx1BdUWAJ8KhVTFO5rKk1uO3GLL7E-IhLv3b-BFFJeNKJpa-aS_cZuAatFhZM/s400/PICT0072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368653458561308706" border="0" /></a>This simple activity does a couple things:<br /><ol><li> it provides variety in shapes, colors, textures for children to explore<br /></li><li>on a beautiful platter it becomes a handmade centerpiece inspired by you and your children </li><li>placed on a table within reach will invite children to pick their fancy for snack time<br /></li><li>it truly does become living artwork for your family to enjoy the earth's bounty year round</li><li>being constantly exposed to vegetables allows you to cook them with less resistance from your children as they "bond" with them all day<br /></li></ol>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-52943309175053228472009-08-06T02:46:00.000-07:002009-08-06T03:21:01.610-07:00Some Firsts<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixXgsThMKpC75eRe-Qm7LYqVG-2o8UdxbGwdJhX7UTfrDvW4IFRx4iXrVJcEJGuQhOLV8kMdqXs94aH0VwVAnR3wPrfW0qT6OHd1leUF5_KtMnyr1cGv2ndMGwSCSiYjYVwT8A7_W1O_4/s1600-h/PICT0094.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixXgsThMKpC75eRe-Qm7LYqVG-2o8UdxbGwdJhX7UTfrDvW4IFRx4iXrVJcEJGuQhOLV8kMdqXs94aH0VwVAnR3wPrfW0qT6OHd1leUF5_KtMnyr1cGv2ndMGwSCSiYjYVwT8A7_W1O_4/s400/PICT0094.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366786646834975906" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1x4Lhu8K9gv7JYELY0E_0nWW5d1hYrlBlLwD-ofweYULgDo6HBJYyhllWQzLtma32T2bKFYUyjmi8V6rXIQ2TV5djNrRjU7Pnne9xhh3z2XVggGhjTn2A9q1YER0dWMBKHbmJ78JJDsII/s1600-h/PICT0098.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1x4Lhu8K9gv7JYELY0E_0nWW5d1hYrlBlLwD-ofweYULgDo6HBJYyhllWQzLtma32T2bKFYUyjmi8V6rXIQ2TV5djNrRjU7Pnne9xhh3z2XVggGhjTn2A9q1YER0dWMBKHbmJ78JJDsII/s400/PICT0098.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366786638765060946" border="0" /></a>It feels good to post a baked good once again on my blog--the first baking I've done since bringing the twins home. These are Coffee Cake Muffins, the recipe quite intricate, which is why this other recipe of Martha's looks similar, but 10 steps shorter. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidR7uQzFtzFwMSPm2Ste9Pw-Ipf48YgsupqlpionsL1FtNQpRxvnuwGzYRBnIZVjxjql9SKXjTMWokkdOMQhGn6hkn5w0B9uywVm0nmWWufNpkJE6Cz3tZZFOyq3I1kht7_6kS0shujxMp/s1600-h/Picture+1.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 324px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidR7uQzFtzFwMSPm2Ste9Pw-Ipf48YgsupqlpionsL1FtNQpRxvnuwGzYRBnIZVjxjql9SKXjTMWokkdOMQhGn6hkn5w0B9uywVm0nmWWufNpkJE6Cz3tZZFOyq3I1kht7_6kS0shujxMp/s400/Picture+1.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366790937554761922" border="0" /></a>First Baking was accompanied by first Craft Day in my new place. Try these muffins on a lazy Saturday morning; you may find yourself appliqueing while the muffins rise.<br /><br /><br /><div class="ms-col2-article-body"> <div class="ms-col2-article-body-inner"> <div class="ms-col2-recipe-ingredients"> <h2>Ingredients</h2> <p>Makes 12</p> <ul><li> <b>FOR STREUSEL</b> </li><li>1 cup packed dark-brown sugar</li><li>1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)</li><li>1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon</li><li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li><li>1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces</li><li> <b>FOR MUFFINS</b> </li><li>1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for pans</li><li>1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), plus more for pans</li><li>2 teaspoons baking powder</li><li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li><li>1 cup sour cream</li><li>1 cup granulated sugar</li><li>1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</li><li>2 large eggs</li><li> confectioners' sugar, for dusting</li></ul> </div> <div class="ms-col2-recipe-directions"> <h2>Directions</h2> <ol><li> <span>Prepare streusel: In a medium bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. With a pastry blender or two knives, cut in butter until mixture resembles large coarse crumbs; refrigerate until ready to use.</span> </li><li> <span>Prepare muffins: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter and flour two jumbo 6-cup muffin pans. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda; set aside.</span> </li><li> <span>Using an electric mixer, beat together butter, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla on medium speed until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, until well combined. With mixer on low, beat in flour mixture just until combined.</span> </li><li> <span>Divide half the batter among muffin cups; top with half the streusel. Cover with remaining batter; top with remaining streusel. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool in pan 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely. Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.</span> </li></ol> </div> </div> </div><span style="font-size:78%;">(Recipe Courtesy Martha Stewart)</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-40175984608719057632009-07-22T17:42:00.001-07:002009-07-23T05:00:11.995-07:00The Afternoon Task<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ZZjZIRV3RQpHR1MD8AMcoIgCLDRB66ZRFNS9K0u1-b6-7G_KVnJOw7aTTpxbfDqPS5DqFIq3qbAnVwUE1gD7UXXay60WOVEm7ZivxKxG73PNs34e9Atz6Dqo4IMXGT4Qs84UmsedhE0m/s1600-h/PICT0073.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ZZjZIRV3RQpHR1MD8AMcoIgCLDRB66ZRFNS9K0u1-b6-7G_KVnJOw7aTTpxbfDqPS5DqFIq3qbAnVwUE1gD7UXXay60WOVEm7ZivxKxG73PNs34e9Atz6Dqo4IMXGT4Qs84UmsedhE0m/s400/PICT0073.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361461199194446578" border="0" /></a>So I've taken up cooking again. Yes, you probably thought from my absence that husband and children were being neglected nutritionally. That's pretty much true, except that Bobby makes some killer dinners.<br /><br />New goal: cook exciting, well rounded dinners. Plan: set aside entire afternoon to prep and cook dinner with my sous chef. That way, with all of the babies to feed and soothe, I should eventually still have dinner ready by the breaking point, dinnertime.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_THjCgBW3R8si5usbTd__WATfPQn1AiMKlCSANqIptdg87gQYuDhnVrclqND_MgzMSoihXMY0isHqUD8AGsCejMKH_4kay8aa7j2pYsAdPA2lYiuT2NLpfqN66WtvplogwcKFi0QZuaSM/s1600-h/PICT0066.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_THjCgBW3R8si5usbTd__WATfPQn1AiMKlCSANqIptdg87gQYuDhnVrclqND_MgzMSoihXMY0isHqUD8AGsCejMKH_4kay8aa7j2pYsAdPA2lYiuT2NLpfqN66WtvplogwcKFi0QZuaSM/s400/PICT0066.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361461194055606402" border="0" /></a>Caroline and I treated the cutting, shredding, juicing, and sauteing of this Zucchini and Chicken Salad as if we were on a cooking show--a very snooty cooking show, that is.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5PaKMrRwK2CFb9cko6QqHT7SYLMNkYn1G33gtT8Yo8A-Ohr-McHHqQouGC4vsUdPhgJFWVBPyH1EuIDgrzZdFXoe5eGLil0lIj8Fq-PcUtEjqXixOOVwUmZzWEjhbGPsm38NcZx8bWx-8/s1600-h/PICT0070.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5PaKMrRwK2CFb9cko6QqHT7SYLMNkYn1G33gtT8Yo8A-Ohr-McHHqQouGC4vsUdPhgJFWVBPyH1EuIDgrzZdFXoe5eGLil0lIj8Fq-PcUtEjqXixOOVwUmZzWEjhbGPsm38NcZx8bWx-8/s400/PICT0070.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361461184642031826" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWVrtme5JvqRpD3e67biigaDkqf-oi6gHawERAVFbq8FatTltoKWnFSlEbS2Pdv8bLA6cKxhO831UVs_kH-z8NyCEn_Ep09f2n0WnlQtW6nZgDDevZPvXP5sUft5rvnhHgkjohhXL_qv_/s1600-h/PICT0077.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFWVrtme5JvqRpD3e67biigaDkqf-oi6gHawERAVFbq8FatTltoKWnFSlEbS2Pdv8bLA6cKxhO831UVs_kH-z8NyCEn_Ep09f2n0WnlQtW6nZgDDevZPvXP5sUft5rvnhHgkjohhXL_qv_/s400/PICT0077.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361461180227296130" border="0" /></a>Served with rice, it is a wonderful crispy, slightly tangy summer dish. Great for a quick meal if you already have zucchini on hand.<br /><br /><h2>Zucchini and Chicken Salad<br /></h2><h2><span style="font-size:100%;">Ingredients</span></h2> <p>Serves 4</p> <ul><li>1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon olive oil</li><li>1/4 cup fresh lemon juice</li><li> Coarse salt and ground pepper</li><li>1 1/4 pounds zucchini, thinly sliced</li><li>1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts</li><li>1 bunch (about 8 ounces) spinach, chopped</li><li>1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (I used Vidalia onion, slightly sauteed)<br /></li><li>3/4 cup chopped pecans</li><li>1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese</li><li>1/4 cup chopped fresh mint ( I omitted, and am glad I did)<br /></li></ul> <div class="ms-col2-recipe-directions"> <h2>Directions</h2> <ol><li> <span>In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper. Add zucchini; toss to coat, and let marinate while cooking chicken.</span> </li><li> <span>In a large nonstick skillet, heat remaining tablespoon oil over medium. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook chicken until golden brown and opaque throughout, about 7 minutes per side.</span> </li><li> <span>Toss chicken with zucchini mixture, spinach, onion, pecans, Parmesan, and mint. Serve.</span></li></ol><span style="font-size:78%;">Recipe compliments Martha Stewart's Everyday Food Cookbook</span><br /></div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-75435253885293914702009-02-18T13:30:00.000-08:002009-02-18T13:56:39.261-08:00Fake It Till You Make It<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtmK5bR9ZhdtMxtgB4K6nsRbIH1Ji0kJ7oKdg10IDTYkOJr8R3Cm0f1_oQ8BsRMuVyf9m7KV3DUpVCoBQBRa0eZx45qqSK0WpticqqSWmbIgB-tJ9XpwZ-cFvBfy3DMS0Spd1WXmJZONI/s1600-h/PICT0020.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtmK5bR9ZhdtMxtgB4K6nsRbIH1Ji0kJ7oKdg10IDTYkOJr8R3Cm0f1_oQ8BsRMuVyf9m7KV3DUpVCoBQBRa0eZx45qqSK0WpticqqSWmbIgB-tJ9XpwZ-cFvBfy3DMS0Spd1WXmJZONI/s400/PICT0020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304253473693797586" border="0" /></a>How do I sum up life these past 6 months of expecting twins? Unpredictable and uncomfortable, physically, that is. I tend to think of myself as organized, motivated, and a dreamer. It only takes a huge life change to shake my confidence, motivation, and routine.<br /><br />I went from homemade treats (as therapy for myself and bonding time with my children) and new exciting meals, to pretzels, pretzels, and more pretzels, and "breakfast for dinner for the 15th time this month."<br /><br />Why do I tell you this? Because with much time and humility I've come to accept my situation, my family's particular season. Costco's Krusteaz's 10 lbs. bag of pancake mix has become a dear friend as "easy and healthy" has overtaken many of my "healthiest" options I used to be so anal about. Someday I'll have more time to bake and cook. This is a season. Seasons bring change, including personal reflection. Every new season brings the decision as to what is necessary: good, better or best.<br /><br />We're happy to be striving for better over at this ever changing household.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-74672026627262927162009-01-05T18:34:00.000-08:002009-01-05T19:29:40.493-08:00You're Invited!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9buoYTrAT0W6kHuDcXeUEtmVddOXWUmDrfSZki9Bx6nEtw-01ZBDs4f6JZAxyOFHxSq7PYXQuN18V_QrUsJJi2MOmOMnFUEcqcSMbNHqkTJ5Ud4HG5uyzISPvKC0YZy5L2Y1iExhv3Tp/s1600-h/PICT7317.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9buoYTrAT0W6kHuDcXeUEtmVddOXWUmDrfSZki9Bx6nEtw-01ZBDs4f6JZAxyOFHxSq7PYXQuN18V_QrUsJJi2MOmOMnFUEcqcSMbNHqkTJ5Ud4HG5uyzISPvKC0YZy5L2Y1iExhv3Tp/s400/PICT7317.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288003907781682994" border="0" /></a>January is the perfectly cold month to make my annual snowman cupcakes. Children adore them well before they sink their teeth into them.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0g_1f7E5UPbFr0cboDbZqMSqtBzJC5ZCqMMls2qup6WQpWKEDB0J80Z4FvEsTp45L1hF364BnAglXdg_ib6rvvKJNIPPvEC6lBL5kGXpmSU5VDG-BXIW9tOyD7xhOaWLRF9bgz21psWVL/s1600-h/PICT7300.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0g_1f7E5UPbFr0cboDbZqMSqtBzJC5ZCqMMls2qup6WQpWKEDB0J80Z4FvEsTp45L1hF364BnAglXdg_ib6rvvKJNIPPvEC6lBL5kGXpmSU5VDG-BXIW9tOyD7xhOaWLRF9bgz21psWVL/s400/PICT7300.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288003884222425826" border="0" /></a><br />For the locals, I invite you over to "make and take" on Saturday, January 31st at 10am. If you're interested, I'll assign you a simple accessory for the snowmen (i.e. beret, nose, eyes, etc.) to humanize your particular snowmen.<br /><br />If you're not in state and still want to make these cuties for your family in honor of "Make a Snowman" Day, (especially my dear friends in sunny Florida and CA), check out <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/article/a-whole-year-of-cupcakes-by-martha?autonomy_kw=chocolate%20cupcake&rsc=header_7">Martha's rendition</a>. Here's one of my <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site/mslo/menuitem.fc77a0dbc44dd1611e3bf410b5900aa0/?vgnextoid=7a61e38e6ec0f010VgnVCM1000003d370a0aRCRD&vgnextfmt=default">favorite chocolate cupcake recipes</a> if you're doing it on your own.<br /><br />Email me your interpretation of the snowman cupcake and let the contest begin!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8jjMwlMEIdvWAgeleRPRTIkSNe-gWs915lRmbNa2nODKjuDa0tB2Cu5cTYLs3Mg79hgsYYIHlBXrymgnMuurcW0zz6f48UWnUgYNl6bIucZsg8FRCQ313Q2VxgdLzG66lH7DJoE4cvKXu/s1600-h/PICT7316.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8jjMwlMEIdvWAgeleRPRTIkSNe-gWs915lRmbNa2nODKjuDa0tB2Cu5cTYLs3Mg79hgsYYIHlBXrymgnMuurcW0zz6f48UWnUgYNl6bIucZsg8FRCQ313Q2VxgdLzG66lH7DJoE4cvKXu/s400/PICT7316.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288003897616274098" border="0" /></a>Have fun--start a new January tradition with your little ones.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-5191225210936967762008-12-22T11:06:00.001-08:002008-12-22T11:18:28.658-08:00Season of Indulgence<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi81cPU9Uq17IBVL8NQ4fi_tIK6N-CpLxf5f9siyvaATdSwBNI4-bs0Wg4StTfhJLwi52cf2GfDPFoCbfzqFoTTkxNKzUwKDZdblZTOMRo9ZKwtxDek7gv0aEqC_iqkU1wsv0_kjEuI3fHm/s1600-h/PICT0001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi81cPU9Uq17IBVL8NQ4fi_tIK6N-CpLxf5f9siyvaATdSwBNI4-bs0Wg4StTfhJLwi52cf2GfDPFoCbfzqFoTTkxNKzUwKDZdblZTOMRo9ZKwtxDek7gv0aEqC_iqkU1wsv0_kjEuI3fHm/s400/PICT0001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282693011284107602" border="0" /></a><br />This week was my first attempt in 3+ months of actually being in the kitchen and baking. Well, is making fudge really considered "baking"?<br /><br />Either way, I did make something for my kids for the Christmas season. Here's some easy peanut butter fudge--it takes, seriously, 15 minutes. And by the way, don't look too closely to the ingredient statement. Besides, isn't it Christmas--the season of indulgence?<br /><br /><ul><li> 1/2 cup butter</li><li> 2 1/4 cups brown sugar</li><li> 1/2 cup milk</li><li> 3/4 cup peanut butter (I used chunky PB for some texture)<br /></li><li> 1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li><li> 3 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar</li></ul><br /><!-- DIRECTIONS --> <h2> DIRECTIONS</h2> <ol><li><span> Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and milk. Bring to a boil and boil for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla. Pour over confectioners' sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat until smooth; pour into an 8x8 inch dish. Chill until firm and cut into squares. </span></li></ol><span style="font-size:78%;">Recipe courtesy of: allrecipes.com</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-31924900511684967062008-11-06T17:50:00.000-08:002008-11-06T18:52:05.999-08:00Traditions<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFdBXhEkp4AOtB3C2wSPCC4RoxZGNSSuhy2cE7SvSIE-HZefRTXbWL5PfjvsQKwwEBGwuYz_-GQvkDdCo28ncfyeUr-59tcPeMSYNlgpjGBJh5ZwNLKL8tMJIVB5Oxsv7PHdXWp8fVfAQG/s1600-h/PICT0012.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFdBXhEkp4AOtB3C2wSPCC4RoxZGNSSuhy2cE7SvSIE-HZefRTXbWL5PfjvsQKwwEBGwuYz_-GQvkDdCo28ncfyeUr-59tcPeMSYNlgpjGBJh5ZwNLKL8tMJIVB5Oxsv7PHdXWp8fVfAQG/s400/PICT0012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265730109150372162" border="0" /></a><br />I remember as a child when my mother would make homemade biscuits for dunking in hot chocolate. It was always a preemptive breakfast celebration for a coming holiday or such. Through years of experience, I came to learn how to hold the buttered biscuit just so in order to keep the biscuit intact. Sometimes it would break and I'd scoop out the soggy chocolate soaked biscuit with my spoon and eat it. Either way, it was heaven.<br /><br />Recently, I made my favorite biscuits and hot chocolate one early morning. We sat as a family, dunking together, talking, and making memories on my husband's birthday.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Traditions.</span><br /><br />Food is one of the greatest memory makers. It lightens the eyes of a child and draws on a flood of memories for an adult. What is it you will pass on to <span style="font-style: italic;">your</span> family? Choose something today that reminds you of your childhood. Pass it on and share your memories with <span style="font-style: italic;">your</span> children.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">My Favorite Dunking Biscuits</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">(Baking Powder Biscuits)</span><br /><br />Makes 1 Dozen<br /><br />4 c. all purpose flour<br />2 TBSP baking powder<br />2 tsp sugar<br />1 tsp salt<br />2 sticks unsalted butter, cold, cut into small pieces<br />2 c. heavy cream, plus more for brushing<br /><br /><br />Preheat the oven 400F. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Using a pastry blender (I use my hands or food processor), cut in the butter until the mixture resembles course crumbs with a few larger clumps remaining.<br /><br />Pour in the heavy cream; using a rubber spatula, fold cream into the dough, working in all directions and incorporating crumbs at the bottom of the bowl, until the dough just comes together. The dough will be slightly sticky.<br /><br />Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. With floured fingers, gently pat the dough into a round about 1 inch thick, pressing in any loose bits. Do not overwork the dough. Use a floured round biscuit cutter to cut out the biscuits as close together as possible. (Use one cut edge as the edge for the next biscuit.)<br /><br />Place the biscuits on an unlined baking sheet about 1.5 inches apart. Generously brush the tops of the biscuits with cream. Bake, rotating the sheet halfway through, until the biscuits are golden and flecked with brown spots, 20 to 25 minutes. Transfer the biscuits to a wire to cool.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">Courtesy: Martha Stewart Baking Handbook</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-22723939933420420152008-10-22T05:16:00.000-07:002008-10-22T19:50:28.541-07:00Eat Junk, Not Food<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUSV2JCicKFQLzhDgMT3Z7WGcdHPdQBR79DKgbNMRmw8_-wLZf78ZEYGkrIaYlgfZMfjwzGnA_LWkXJBu6FcSArIgqhuTN2bweGCy0jZzLm6SEN2FrKbIS3GEhWgyI2x6CjeWuoddjkHj/s1600-h/beef-tacos-beef-and-cheese-rolled-tacos-mexican-appetizers.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUSV2JCicKFQLzhDgMT3Z7WGcdHPdQBR79DKgbNMRmw8_-wLZf78ZEYGkrIaYlgfZMfjwzGnA_LWkXJBu6FcSArIgqhuTN2bweGCy0jZzLm6SEN2FrKbIS3GEhWgyI2x6CjeWuoddjkHj/s400/beef-tacos-beef-and-cheese-rolled-tacos-mexican-appetizers.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259951990610723682" border="0" /></a>The time has come that all of my good food judgment is not just tossed aside, but brutally thrown far, far away.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">We are excitedly expecting a baby!</span> Translation: food is my love and my enemy.<br /><br />It's all that I can do to keep sane but scarf down these "quick and easy" fixes, for example, good 'ol Don Miguel rolled tacos and "grilled" quesadillas and the list goes on.<br /><br />I'm sure many of you aren't aware of the paradox in our home: our joy of eating well based on earth's fresh goodness, while my husband pays the bills being a food broker, representing many food companies and many items like frozen burritos, Hot Pockets, frozen parfaits, tortilla and "cheese" wrapped hot dogs, frozen hamburgers--bun and toppings and all, calzones, breakfast sandwiches... you get the picture.<br /><br />If you haven't caught on yet, <span style="font-style: italic;">everything</span> he represents is for convenient stores: you know, for people that want something hot while they run in to pay for their gas. Not only is it his job to represent the food, but our refrigerator often fills up with these frozen, instant meals/desserts.<br /><br />As long as I've fought the dignity of having this "junk food" in my house, now its coming back to haunt me--and boy is it winning.<br /><br />Thank goodness for the blog's sake this personal dilemma should pass over the next couple months, until this morning sickness is through. But stay tuned--meat, cheese, and plenty of sweets will definitely be featured over the next couple months, just hopefully made from my kitchen without an ingredient statement a mile long.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />For the record, my (pregnant) sister and I finished off a box of these "delicacies" from Don Miguel yesterday. If you, too, are pregnant and craving, you know where to find me.</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-2198641870094899552008-10-18T18:44:00.000-07:002008-10-18T19:52:28.465-07:00Pumpkin Bread for the Ladies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLJmj4RXLu0AHxcn6dXFpEHW1-Esw4Q_i4QJN9jKOXbklV7hBZF9e3dP0_JPcwCEJRXaiSUx-7ViOOwaoh6JuA_yStqXJh0H1DXf3dimxjyspmwo06Ar5HfPpkHitpLYKhwQRtX25cIZyW/s1600-h/DSC_3360.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLJmj4RXLu0AHxcn6dXFpEHW1-Esw4Q_i4QJN9jKOXbklV7hBZF9e3dP0_JPcwCEJRXaiSUx-7ViOOwaoh6JuA_yStqXJh0H1DXf3dimxjyspmwo06Ar5HfPpkHitpLYKhwQRtX25cIZyW/s400/DSC_3360.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258675219603818450" border="0" /></a>I just had a great <a href="http://exclusivelyshiffler.blogspot.com/2008/10/apple-printing-day.html">group of friends</a> over to dapple in the art of apple printing today. I made some really moist pumpkin bread (moist because of the pumpkin) that is quite easy to make. They don't call it "quick bread" for nothing!<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >Pumpkin Bread</span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">(Recipe courtesy <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0307236722?ie=UTF8&tag=exclusivelymo-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0307236722">Martha Stewart's Baking Handbook</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=exclusivelymo-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0307236722" alt="" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" border="0" height="1" width="1" />)</span><br /><br />Unsalted butter, room temperature, for pans<br />3 cups all-purpose flour<br />2 teaspoons baking powder<br />2 teaspoons baking soda<br />2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon<br />1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg<br />1/4 teaspoon ground allspice<br />1/4 teaspoon salt<br />2 cups canned pumpkin purรฉe<br />1 cup granulated sugar (I used .5 a cup)<br />1 cup packed dark-drown sugar<br />4 large eggs<br />1/4 cup vegetable oil<br />1 2/3 cups buttermilk (just use milk if it's all you have)<br /><br />Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat two 8 1/2-by-4 1/2-inch loaf pans with butter; set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and salt; set mixture aside.<br /><br />In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the pumpkin purรฉe and both sugars; mix on medium speed until well combines, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the eggs and oil; mix until incorporated, about 2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl. With mixer on low, add the flour mixture in two batches, alternating with the buttermilk and beginning and ending with the flour, until just combined.<br /><br />Divide the batter between the prepared pans; smooth the tops with an offset spatula. Place the pans on a baking sheet. Bake, rotating the sheet halfway through, until a cake tester inserted in the centers comes out clean, 55 to 60 minutes. Transfer pans to a wire rack to cool 10 minutes. Remove loaves from pans and cool completely. Bread can be kept at room temperature, wrapped in plastic, for up to 4 days.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-36148322778566828892008-10-07T17:58:00.000-07:002008-10-07T18:59:18.626-07:00Warmth of Home<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUW_cgOQ9MXJBpWAkBIxx4Uqwx6YXRWIs9pa6JcNsvz42R5aGa8UvNgkYOOGpsAqXxwi023rmUC_F2IqDps3y5Bq6wI6s57iRn-feSrQZ7kFNnLDkY5wc83mCJjyG8ReuNfeGqqDalGHu/s1600-h/PICT0081.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUW_cgOQ9MXJBpWAkBIxx4Uqwx6YXRWIs9pa6JcNsvz42R5aGa8UvNgkYOOGpsAqXxwi023rmUC_F2IqDps3y5Bq6wI6s57iRn-feSrQZ7kFNnLDkY5wc83mCJjyG8ReuNfeGqqDalGHu/s400/PICT0081.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254585007759072706" border="0" /></a><br />Fall is a nostalgic season for me. There is something about the stark contrast of chilly, crisp air of being out in nature, to the warm nurturing feeling of returning indoors, where family, comfort, and soothing foods greet you.<br /><br />That is why the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove remind us of this time of year; they compliment the fall harvest of apples, pears, squash, and pumpkin. And tastes like the coming holidays, too.<br /><br /><br />Here is a tasteful, chunky, and thorough squash soup. Thorough because whole cinnamon sticks sweeter the squash while curry powder enlivens the squash.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >Hubbard Squash Soup</span><br /><br />Prep: 35 minutes<br />Cook: 25 minutes<br /><br />3 Tbsp. butter<br />3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil<br />1 large onion, sliced (1 cup)<br />2 tsp. curry powder<br />5 lb. *Hubbard, butternut, or acorn squash, peeled and cut into 2-in. pieces (11 cups)<br />6 cloves garlic, minced<br />3 c. chicken stock or broth<br />1.5 c. water<br />1 tsp. salt<br />3 2-3 inch cinnamon sticks<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">1.</span></span> In a pot heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add onion and curry. Cook and stir about 5 minutes or until onion is tender. Add squash pieces and garlic. Cook, uncovered, for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the stock, water, salt, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until squash is tender.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmsx1kELGUJfmgtJSleXqob4S8u9mqlhtRuOf0f-A7gxHig6FQYxZpfl1HBVcVUmRNgZ_OLcuaziEWea1V5d1UmCEjlXfQLweftkYvDrEkGbvi1Sx4goRpi61aZuXrCIC39Mhv8q2XBaR9/s1600-h/PICT0019.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmsx1kELGUJfmgtJSleXqob4S8u9mqlhtRuOf0f-A7gxHig6FQYxZpfl1HBVcVUmRNgZ_OLcuaziEWea1V5d1UmCEjlXfQLweftkYvDrEkGbvi1Sx4goRpi61aZuXrCIC39Mhv8q2XBaR9/s400/PICT0019.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254584997411968274" border="0" /></a><br /><br />*A huge Hubbard squash can be difficult to cut up. Wash squash; place in a clean, large heavy plastic cooking bag. Fasten bag closed. Drop bag several times onto a hard surface, such as a cement floor. The squash should break safely into small, more manageable pieces. <br /><br />(And of course, you have to let your kids make a jack-o-lantern with it first.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsljMbx9Js-ep3pO3pJhHg29wei-iC6X0AHUoWcPLAQDayQ9hwXtV86DJGVZ6CAYuuvSBHVF9VvGEGC1k6na0EhDfjALyELAa4i1-WUPNlM4Io3fMduh_LLtgz58OOB1L4PX79JI9c77Y_/s1600-h/PICT0026.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsljMbx9Js-ep3pO3pJhHg29wei-iC6X0AHUoWcPLAQDayQ9hwXtV86DJGVZ6CAYuuvSBHVF9VvGEGC1k6na0EhDfjALyELAa4i1-WUPNlM4Io3fMduh_LLtgz58OOB1L4PX79JI9c77Y_/s400/PICT0026.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254585002771834530" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">2.</span></span> Remove and discard cinnamon sticks. Using potato masher, coarsely mash mixture, or cool slightly and transfer in batches to a food processor. Cover and process until nearly smooth. Return all to pot. Heat through. Of course, top with sour cream!<br /><br />Makes 8-10 servings.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUI9yaicCF-r9eV4nNkFBNGmixfh-zNvGeu6KutZrxG89lvLOeY5DzuvGHWLJdexjugyjCd71HvFZ8td_Iio8KIUFPasZV1fniheeWHAcV4QhhRfDUBPGQ_csB4asT7obh1RUJYBpzrzvv/s1600-h/PICT0042.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUI9yaicCF-r9eV4nNkFBNGmixfh-zNvGeu6KutZrxG89lvLOeY5DzuvGHWLJdexjugyjCd71HvFZ8td_Iio8KIUFPasZV1fniheeWHAcV4QhhRfDUBPGQ_csB4asT7obh1RUJYBpzrzvv/s400/PICT0042.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254585004139737858" border="0" /></a><br /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXALO-f0foqimLyBrtzGN3TWFozydcCn7cb-sd6bxK2v-hEbFDjnajhz0XNVlccuy-Xbiqs-7Oyz6OoqG1hNs9X6uZdfGgeDoXyM7JDomgJrzpPF0yisrNfdp21yfbRIVFqWuIeAwBAfXE/s1600-h/PICT0084.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXALO-f0foqimLyBrtzGN3TWFozydcCn7cb-sd6bxK2v-hEbFDjnajhz0XNVlccuy-Xbiqs-7Oyz6OoqG1hNs9X6uZdfGgeDoXyM7JDomgJrzpPF0yisrNfdp21yfbRIVFqWuIeAwBAfXE/s400/PICT0084.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254585014078319458" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />This recipe comes from my 2004 Better Homes and Gardens Annual Cookbook. I love these! Each book is organized month by month with great recipes, but even better, incredible photos. You can find previous years of the annual cookbooks for a couple bucks a piece on ebay.<br /></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE_HliK-AbY1dQyLLohj_QC6Pvri0lUr-flvMgkFD83D3i6dlEOKsPxwGR0b7aospzyTwCoK3xeNBvyWwMJaXXVHdMtz7JOx5hhw2QFxLJ-BvlNjaK_7yU9yZtwwlzG0_tGW5WmK3Z3sKY/s1600-h/PICT0021.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE_HliK-AbY1dQyLLohj_QC6Pvri0lUr-flvMgkFD83D3i6dlEOKsPxwGR0b7aospzyTwCoK3xeNBvyWwMJaXXVHdMtz7JOx5hhw2QFxLJ-BvlNjaK_7yU9yZtwwlzG0_tGW5WmK3Z3sKY/s400/PICT0021.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254585205189483410" border="0" /></a>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-62766415084001013842008-09-29T10:56:00.000-07:002008-09-29T11:21:20.152-07:00This One's for You, Matt!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4A4M1CTTo2Ak-kjDVykGrfontglu5Ljx5EiqFQXP_5m7dZGzYEe6TfdKkqfz_3bp1E_j73WapajGknbvCZmfgqENHIbIyaHmbgCs7mTpUHotbhVzmmk2cWqUtfAdgqE543hdfWdTLJF6/s1600-h/PICT0026.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4A4M1CTTo2Ak-kjDVykGrfontglu5Ljx5EiqFQXP_5m7dZGzYEe6TfdKkqfz_3bp1E_j73WapajGknbvCZmfgqENHIbIyaHmbgCs7mTpUHotbhVzmmk2cWqUtfAdgqE543hdfWdTLJF6/s400/PICT0026.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251506801911511970" border="0" /></a>So my good friend, Ann, is struggling with what in the world to feed her husband who is struggling with a health condition. All meat and many other forms of protein are out of the picture. But beans are in!<br /><br />So Matt, this one's for you--one of my favorite vegetarian dinners. The combination of flavors, especially the pepper jack cheese that acts as the binder to the mixture, is incredible.<br /><br />And it comes from Gourmet Magazine, so whatever credentials that entices you with, try it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" ><br /><br /><br />Black Bean, Spinach, and Mushroom Burritos</span><br /><div class="body-text"><h2><span style="font-size:130%;">Ingredients</span></h2> <!--concordance-begin--> <ul><li>1 onion, finely chopped </li><li>1/2 pound mushrooms, finely chopped</li><li>1 tablespoon vegetable oil</li><li>1 bunch spinach (about 1 pound), coarse stems discarded, washed well and spun dry</li><li>2 garlic cloves</li><li>1/4 cup water</li><li>1 cup canned black beans, rinsed well and drained</li><li>1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice</li><li>2 scallions, finely chopped </li><li>3/4 cup coarsely grated pepper Jack <a class="cimotif" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted green; color: green; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer;">cheese</a><img style="border-width: 0pt; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; position: static;" src="http://a19.g.akamai.net/7/19/7125/1450/Ocellus.coupons.com/_images/showlist_icon.gif" height="10" width="10" /> (about 5 ounces)</li><li>Salt</li><li>1/2 cup canned mild enchilada sauce</li><li>2 (10-inch) or 4 (8-inch) flour tortillas</li><li>Accompaniment: Sour cream </li></ul> <!--concordance-end--> <h2><br /></h2><h2><span style="font-size:130%;">Cook Time:<br /></span></h2>30 Minutes<br /><br /><h2><span style="font-size:130%;">Yields:</span></h2><h2><span style="font-weight: normal;font-size:100%;" >2 (So I always double it)</span><br /></h2><br /><h2><span style="font-size:130%;">Directions</span></h2> <p> In a heavy skillet cook onion and mushrooms in oil over moderate heat, stirring, until golden. Add spinach and garlic and cook, stirring, until spinach is wilted, about 30 seconds. Stir in water, beans, lemon juice, scallions, pepper Jack, salt, to taste, and cook stirring, until cheese is melted. </p><p>In a small saucepan, heat enchilada sauce. </p><p>Heat a dry skillet (large enough to hold 1 tortilla) over moderately high heat until hot. In skillet heat tortillas, 1 at a time, turning frequently, 30 seconds, or until softened, and transfer to a work surface. Divide filling between tortillas and roll up burritos. </p><p>Spoon sauce over burritos and serve with sour cream. </p> </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oCaB5VYhcJC2KQV_Xd4RbbtZ1MvCOovlhpMshM58fEM47lWc9mYTWr3FQBX9HkcHLXmKaHtvAH0p7sxQPJZ4SMUE26JXYWxkfI75zt4n8i1EXExW8xQi9ZFSkTVXphjfy-Cq9nfqAUsq/s1600-h/PICT0003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oCaB5VYhcJC2KQV_Xd4RbbtZ1MvCOovlhpMshM58fEM47lWc9mYTWr3FQBX9HkcHLXmKaHtvAH0p7sxQPJZ4SMUE26JXYWxkfI75zt4n8i1EXExW8xQi9ZFSkTVXphjfy-Cq9nfqAUsq/s400/PICT0003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251507602704523714" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFnxxsUxbeovWfRrcpGQ7QCwbSN6mpSfWgn_vRsOIFEZ8ibdCXalBC7nxNtSfLrU46VtPSzFGiM5P11eE00uafR2IzRQd2d8iUS3oMPEie7QHu6yTmVInMDph5NTXZ79dgmLzqth49DEg5/s1600-h/PICT0029.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFnxxsUxbeovWfRrcpGQ7QCwbSN6mpSfWgn_vRsOIFEZ8ibdCXalBC7nxNtSfLrU46VtPSzFGiM5P11eE00uafR2IzRQd2d8iUS3oMPEie7QHu6yTmVInMDph5NTXZ79dgmLzqth49DEg5/s400/PICT0029.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5251508027352272946" border="0" /></a>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-37088044980691398692008-09-23T12:19:00.000-07:002008-09-23T18:42:35.079-07:00Chicken Noodle Soup for the Afflicted Soul<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTD1PU5seavFRO4nTUmPOGZLGCW9VYfG1TYO5mCrv9iycSU4uug_BPXlLWpSQcH-NPMUfFmdjvUET5tzrGlZ11SbEu43WRgiZzVEvaOaHkF5pgzPmddnapL3ghpsFF2HSv5hDPTGU2kW2/s1600-h/PICT0002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTD1PU5seavFRO4nTUmPOGZLGCW9VYfG1TYO5mCrv9iycSU4uug_BPXlLWpSQcH-NPMUfFmdjvUET5tzrGlZ11SbEu43WRgiZzVEvaOaHkF5pgzPmddnapL3ghpsFF2HSv5hDPTGU2kW2/s400/PICT0002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249300873915008738" border="0" /></a><br />So I'm finally over the <span style="font-style: italic;">really</span> long week of my stomach flu. My friend, Christine, saved the mealtime insanity at our house one night by bringing us her chicken noodle soup; probably the best I've ever had.<br /><br />She's promised to share the recipe <span style="font-style: italic;">only</span> if I promise to keep my family's germs to ourselves.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Christine's "Everything from Scratch" Chicken Noodle Soup</span><br /><br />Serves 8-10<br /><br />6 Chicken Breasts<br />1 lb of carrots<br />8 small read potatoes<br />4-6 cloves of garlic<br />1/2 a yellow onion<br />1 stalk of celery<br />parsley<br />oregano<br />salt<br />garlic salt<br />pepper<br />6-8 chicken boullion cubes<br /><br /><br />I start the long and the yummiest process by using a crock pot, if you don't have one, just cook your chicken on a frying pan, or boil it first for the short process in a big pot.<br /><br />Put 6 chicken breasts (add first so that they are on the bottom of your crock pot), a whole bag of carrots-1 lb (shread and cut), 4/5 (as many as you like) cloves of garlic minced, half a yellow onion (cut small), 8 small red potatoes cut into quarters (a potato a person), parsley (shake until you think you have enough- I think I had more parsley than oregano), oregano (shake until you think you have enough), and a pinch of rosemary, salt, pepper, garlic salt ( I like to use Lawry's Garlic Salt, but any garlic salt is fine, I did add about 6 cubes of chicken boullion cubes in the crock pot. Cover the chicken, potatoes, and carrots with water.<br />You can put this in the crock pot as early in the day as you want, the earlier the more tender your chicken, potatoes, and carrots will be. I would give it at least 2 1/2 to 3 hours in the crock pot.<br /><br />When you are ready to eat dinner pour everything from the crockpot into a big pot on the stove. Tear up the chicken, add more salt, garlic salt, parsley, and oregano until you think you have enough, and put an entire stalk of celery (dice as thick or as thin as you like) into the pot. I like my celery al dente as it adds variety and texture in your soup. If you like everything to be soft put the celery in the crockpot when you add the carrots and potatoes.<br /><br />You might have to add a cup or 2 more of water so that when you add your noodles there will be enough water for the noodles to absorb. When your water reaches a rolling boil add your noodles, and let cook for 10 minutes, and the soup will be ready to eat after the noodles are done.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Homemade egg Noodles:</span><br /><br />2 c. flour<br />2 beaten eggs<br />1 tsp. salt<br />4 T. milk<br /><br />Mix with a fork to a ball. Roll out. Cut. Drop into boiling soup. Cook 10 min.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-49697216463506388982008-09-21T18:29:00.000-07:002008-09-21T18:54:57.844-07:00Individual Cheese Balls<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpbwUo-ujEWNj-YQh8IEmtkdReiWS5OgbyR5Y4nZTFLbPvT-3O0gAc6MjNBlkQIcvoq-dovhwknSRuXSwp0Az6B1kzimuBhhziu4mPEAx855TMnF4wcXLeU_-GBnwD46JV2BW5SfDmY8P/s1600-h/PICT0015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpbwUo-ujEWNj-YQh8IEmtkdReiWS5OgbyR5Y4nZTFLbPvT-3O0gAc6MjNBlkQIcvoq-dovhwknSRuXSwp0Az6B1kzimuBhhziu4mPEAx855TMnF4wcXLeU_-GBnwD46JV2BW5SfDmY8P/s400/PICT0015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248652621197169618" border="0" /></a><br />Here's a super easy snack that you could very easily have all of the ingredients for. The best part? Having your children roll the mixture into balls themselves.<br /><br />Serves 4 <ul><li>4 ounces cold cream cheese (1/2 bar)</li><li>2 ounces yellow cheddar cheese, finely grated (1 cup loosely packed)</li><li>1 carrot, finely grated (1/2 cup)</li></ul> <div class="ms-col2-recipe-directions"> <h2>Directions</h2> <ol><li> <span>In a medium bowl, with a wooden spoon, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and carrot. With moistened hands, gently form 12 balls, each equal to 1 level tablespoon of mixture. Serve or refrigerate, covered with plastic wrap, up to 2 days.</span></li></ol><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvnQiNZ1BNrCUeWdF9bQ_62gyEpptMtl_wT9j3Twneqqzxy3ZiLMWdjaZhYvZdXo1FJ1U0GBXyDE_QXdFxEESBBPO0ahTSshE869batB8l6lZZvyq9V0hPpktW1Y8CJlE6VR_dzIgaVhx/s1600-h/PICT0014.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvnQiNZ1BNrCUeWdF9bQ_62gyEpptMtl_wT9j3Twneqqzxy3ZiLMWdjaZhYvZdXo1FJ1U0GBXyDE_QXdFxEESBBPO0ahTSshE869batB8l6lZZvyq9V0hPpktW1Y8CJlE6VR_dzIgaVhx/s400/PICT0014.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248652620571768306" border="0" /></a><br />Simple, slightly crunchy, with a boost of shredded carrots. The kids hardly notice. Let your kids spread on crackers with a plastic knife and you're suddenly the coolest mom in the neighborhood.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1eNo0sjOZX17goJTfNEunqDxiRYSKrdJguNbR_psVn0Zta5_lPwMO5UxXGv-WMiWakQABoaOa4XOrj3c6-8Wm80G8QDdj-Qmh5D8u-QiMwS8QCULsPtKGR4Yte6Bg2LfW4-bDsZ65kFM/s1600-h/PICT0022.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1eNo0sjOZX17goJTfNEunqDxiRYSKrdJguNbR_psVn0Zta5_lPwMO5UxXGv-WMiWakQABoaOa4XOrj3c6-8Wm80G8QDdj-Qmh5D8u-QiMwS8QCULsPtKGR4Yte6Bg2LfW4-bDsZ65kFM/s400/PICT0022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248652632117790434" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">Recipe courtesy MarthaStewart.com</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-72133210482283631162008-09-16T19:22:00.000-07:002008-09-17T04:44:54.140-07:00At a Local Farm Near You<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-AbBFRXpWULQztU5rE6iduy6daNl_81_g4K-V2GULX14SSO33uOv2FcqYEtXg-zFfpS0UtP6zhZU7ZJPToFoY1QEVvupLxmxJM91uB1v0R4L83zTlW752Zr7_Wz6lON8pOPV87tX8d5v8/s1600-h/100_0016.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-AbBFRXpWULQztU5rE6iduy6daNl_81_g4K-V2GULX14SSO33uOv2FcqYEtXg-zFfpS0UtP6zhZU7ZJPToFoY1QEVvupLxmxJM91uB1v0R4L83zTlW752Zr7_Wz6lON8pOPV87tX8d5v8/s400/100_0016.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246810590721016194" border="0" /></a><br />Two eventful happenings this weekend: 1) onset of a 5 day long stomach flu for me (sigh...) and 2) my first experience with a local organic farm! Let's talk about that one.<br /><br />Our family was invited by some friends to partake of their co-op they have with an <a href="http://www.spiralpathfarm.com/"> organic farm</a>. We were <span style="font-style: italic;">totally</span> impressed.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbkz_cDH5-ZA2YJhrzF9O40zilvX4cMD53p8KNNFmbD_fQqw92IAKCWX3RU0K5lFm5rHekveldIlnm_PTQW14AW0FOHZbI5ZIuQLspubTdNLuIDaDtDUlXUbQe_eqEF-zloyz8gULz9Qm8/s1600-h/100_0022.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbkz_cDH5-ZA2YJhrzF9O40zilvX4cMD53p8KNNFmbD_fQqw92IAKCWX3RU0K5lFm5rHekveldIlnm_PTQW14AW0FOHZbI5ZIuQLspubTdNLuIDaDtDUlXUbQe_eqEF-zloyz8gULz9Qm8/s400/100_0022.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246810946885893170" border="0" /></a><br />So with this farm co-op, you pay a certain amount for that year's harvest and pick up a box of that particular harvest weekly. We're talking fresh from the fields, <span style="font-style: italic;">weekly</span>!<br /><br />On top of that, you're invited to the farm itself, monthly, to pick your own of whatever is there! Talk about cool!<br /><br />There were tons of fresh herbs, peppers, tomatoes, lettuces, zucchini. squash, etc., etc. And, you could pick from their flowers--like their gerber daisies which I loved.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1wGS6AzmcToQ5wqdK0boaFeRF_0ztq1fWuyx3uaT_iVkFEqRF9dSZiZHth7raASHCUofuWWLhRedbAHXu84UQurUAdFYt7hByE95bwgVRPnRQzzhjoOYK3_sDOuSZqCCbgwxH28GEKne/s1600-h/100_0025.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1wGS6AzmcToQ5wqdK0boaFeRF_0ztq1fWuyx3uaT_iVkFEqRF9dSZiZHth7raASHCUofuWWLhRedbAHXu84UQurUAdFYt7hByE95bwgVRPnRQzzhjoOYK3_sDOuSZqCCbgwxH28GEKne/s400/100_0025.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246810610507769954" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfk1Y6wazpcMvlrRQgdJrkqGxwiN1aN2Ym8mOpGl6vo_1RpbkN7d4BxMr3gaVo5VcgHoLBFIFifZyWTc5CqSarWgqQtwBQbYAZKtynJ1_utO16JYdqbjUK4FxanfhBGoQPfMdtvKDQxhd/s1600-h/100_0021.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfk1Y6wazpcMvlrRQgdJrkqGxwiN1aN2Ym8mOpGl6vo_1RpbkN7d4BxMr3gaVo5VcgHoLBFIFifZyWTc5CqSarWgqQtwBQbYAZKtynJ1_utO16JYdqbjUK4FxanfhBGoQPfMdtvKDQxhd/s400/100_0021.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246810594404310658" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicyYo0dZqWYhJFF-q8UyoFVQVolk9l2XMc9dI0Y_x-guoew_OkkID4ByA9LQK2Ocm5XwYZDibQSSxcW8wYMl5987exK5GyxsDcvvjYCglLZAkkocbi61a_44zmO8e9spzeyKLPxwux-S6O/s1600-h/100_0023.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicyYo0dZqWYhJFF-q8UyoFVQVolk9l2XMc9dI0Y_x-guoew_OkkID4ByA9LQK2Ocm5XwYZDibQSSxcW8wYMl5987exK5GyxsDcvvjYCglLZAkkocbi61a_44zmO8e9spzeyKLPxwux-S6O/s400/100_0023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246810602037929138" border="0" /></a><br />The whole experience was quite breath-taking. Being literally out in no where, surrounded by green hills, fragrant herbs, and every color of earth's late summer harvest.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">And</span> it was fun to be around all the local "organic" nuts. I thought it was quite fun to count all of the "world-changing" t-shirt on most of the women picking. (My favorite was the one that reads, "We were here first" with a group of endangered species sitting on top of the earth.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5UK5mt080Anx9qFLDdG_tS8ImtGZ06uTP_TegRTO2P_2_uJrwB-jkCfKh-ii-MlVF9UoSTBy8v6aD_GgxlL32YQ_gUDNINlb6lXPRVQ_SHkQfJc7Y85p0oIhnBJebRu2pU3YfKoyCAqRd/s1600-h/100_0028.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5UK5mt080Anx9qFLDdG_tS8ImtGZ06uTP_TegRTO2P_2_uJrwB-jkCfKh-ii-MlVF9UoSTBy8v6aD_GgxlL32YQ_gUDNINlb6lXPRVQ_SHkQfJc7Y85p0oIhnBJebRu2pU3YfKoyCAqRd/s400/100_0028.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246810606620291410" border="0" /></a><br />Check it out <a href="http://www.localharvest.org/food-coops/">in your neck of the woods</a>--we are.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-31739015777213535122008-09-11T11:53:00.000-07:002008-09-12T17:25:57.215-07:00"Soup in a Bag"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0QRX4-vCbvUseYHEmrHWSzGkuiMZ-GoOLwDzJIAAwoVYHOigIbdXtn1ovoZUIi0-e7Q9oVYwniRti0psYiS7k8DD0QNtxQsju8OHZQna_4hurMW_9K5DfVWNulvyH1wXZ4ftwE-bTv-J/s1600-h/0002927502901.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0QRX4-vCbvUseYHEmrHWSzGkuiMZ-GoOLwDzJIAAwoVYHOigIbdXtn1ovoZUIi0-e7Q9oVYwniRti0psYiS7k8DD0QNtxQsju8OHZQna_4hurMW_9K5DfVWNulvyH1wXZ4ftwE-bTv-J/s400/0002927502901.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245216165062534434" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I have it from an insider in the chicken industry that this harmless looking chicken breast that you would innocently point to at the deli counter and order a half pound or so of is called "soup in a bag".<br /><br /><a href="http://www.perduefoodservice.com/Products/product_details.asp?productId=75029">"Soup in a bag"</a> refers to the process of taking scraps of real chicken breast, emulsifying them with gelatin and salt water into a chicken flavored slurry. It is then pumped into a bag (the same bag you see in your deli case) and solidifies into a sphere. The industry term for this is "chopped and formed".<br /><br />Now you can see why this is $2 cheaper then the real stuff.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Tips to not be deceived:<br /><br />1. </span>If you're at the deli counter, avoid the chicken/turkey that is shaped perfectly round or oval, like the above photo (emphasis on the <span style="font-style: italic;">formed</span> part of "chopped and formed"). It will look exactly like the next one they bring out from the back.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2. </span>Look for deli chicken/turkey that looks like a natural chicken or turkey would look: imperfect in shape, because, alas, it IS a real chicken or turkey! Just observe all the shapes of turkey, say, in front of you to choose. At my grocery store, the real stuff has "turkey off the bone" as its title. It doesn't get much more unprocessed then that!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyP7dbhWItoLNPuSsuEH8wVP6yKwxOI8M1zFxYQ_yKgsUzd1N-f3ij2rjnfEjCZMjiwwFCWlRDwfFLe7AfZ2VhNOUX5b2Ghg3hteZzJ8hQvEZEkWCkDTB141yVFsU-JLotHNoPqF64a_OO/s1600-h/1192479005-14293_full.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyP7dbhWItoLNPuSsuEH8wVP6yKwxOI8M1zFxYQ_yKgsUzd1N-f3ij2rjnfEjCZMjiwwFCWlRDwfFLe7AfZ2VhNOUX5b2Ghg3hteZzJ8hQvEZEkWCkDTB141yVFsU-JLotHNoPqF64a_OO/s400/1192479005-14293_full.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245217502056618850" border="0" /></a>See above: a real turkey shape.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-15882285564818794402008-09-07T18:09:00.000-07:002008-09-08T08:00:09.481-07:00Fiber Never Tasted So Good<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlHkYEiAjAUn4Rbf3jnLhGGUlqgW8GQQSLGaB5XgHq-0K9j1CuE_K6ssvqOGzG38jTRzibCuMplF3b47OzyPnqpsMUBgfpVxPAjp17nLOhQ2zt1XpKidH8vpQe2qcaDJl7jVI-ZeaRO45I/s1600-h/PICT0092.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlHkYEiAjAUn4Rbf3jnLhGGUlqgW8GQQSLGaB5XgHq-0K9j1CuE_K6ssvqOGzG38jTRzibCuMplF3b47OzyPnqpsMUBgfpVxPAjp17nLOhQ2zt1XpKidH8vpQe2qcaDJl7jVI-ZeaRO45I/s400/PICT0092.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243451636039161330" border="0" /></a>Bran is one of nature's greatest sources of fiber. It essentially is the outer coating of the wheat kernel where most of the minerals, proteins, and vitamins are found. Use bran to sprinkle on yogurt or to add in muffins. Especially if you eat mostly enriched breads, cereals, and pasta, fill up on this <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bran">incredible fiber source</a> as much as possible.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgzS_1oPQLtLJGbYq6hkkJBkQmDN1BCijARbEBb2QmmD-SnUSyNId6cjtcBTD3wXi3SndU8CBF4v83EF45MMPj2l8E1dhxpd5CIw13bftX6OJi2-Qax9jzQ1hUSBSOHnrbJLRo2qctSxG/s1600-h/PICT0091.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgzS_1oPQLtLJGbYq6hkkJBkQmDN1BCijARbEBb2QmmD-SnUSyNId6cjtcBTD3wXi3SndU8CBF4v83EF45MMPj2l8E1dhxpd5CIw13bftX6OJi2-Qax9jzQ1hUSBSOHnrbJLRo2qctSxG/s400/PICT0091.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243451638887853666" border="0" /></a>Bananas are the answer to the dry, tasteless bran muffin of yesterday. Yes they add flavor, but they especially can turn many dull recipes into moist goodness that otherwise would be used as door stoppers. The combination of hearty bran and moist banana in a single muffin is as ironic as Alanis Morissette--until you try this awesome recipe.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLF_gCFU2vJi6mRwGPX-V0aK_gwh0-0ZtLTUTwt4J0EtfKMhdMcnt4q3TqjQvXE_jn_3DREgRZ4t7Ja7R9SuJCC1Cwkx7aV7wWvZ1PblbTfULOy9sjVEG3_BFHBzmhcgcCtwB4Ib-tlp_I/s1600-h/PICT0087.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLF_gCFU2vJi6mRwGPX-V0aK_gwh0-0ZtLTUTwt4J0EtfKMhdMcnt4q3TqjQvXE_jn_3DREgRZ4t7Ja7R9SuJCC1Cwkx7aV7wWvZ1PblbTfULOy9sjVEG3_BFHBzmhcgcCtwB4Ib-tlp_I/s400/PICT0087.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243451644980659970" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chunky Banana Bran Muffins </span><br />Makes 20 to 24 muffins<br /><br />2 c. unprocessed wheat bran<br />2 c. buttermilk, shaken (Use milk if you don't have buttermilk)<br />1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature<br />1/2 c. light brown sugar, lightly packed<br />4 extra-large eggs, at room temperature<br />3/4 c. unsulfured molasses<br />2 tsp. grated orange zest (not a big deal if you don't have it)<br />1 tsp. pure vanilla extract<br />3 c. all purpose flour<br />1 1/2 tsp. baking powder<br />1/2 tsp. baking soda<br />1 tsp. kosher salt<br />2 c. raisins<br />2 c. large-diced bananas (2 bananas)<br />1 c. chopped walnuts (or whatever nut you have on hand)<br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="bodytext">Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line muffin tins with paper liners. <p>Combine the bran and buttermilk and set aside. Cream the butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment for about 5 minutes, until light and fluffy. With the mixer on low, add the eggs, 1 at a time. Scrape the bowl and then add the molasses, orange zest, and vanilla. (The mixture will look curdled.) Add the bran/buttermilk mixture and combine. </p><p>In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the flour mixture to the batter just until combined. Don't overmix it! Fold in the raisins, bananas and walnuts with a rubber spatula. </p><p>With an ice cream scoop or large spoon, fill the muffin cups to the top and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a cake tester comes out clean.</p></span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">(Recipe Courtesy of Barefoot Contessa at Home)</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-47284576530126185532008-09-04T19:56:00.000-07:002008-09-04T20:26:28.498-07:00Making a Come Back: Corn<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtaBG-A3O2Q6j05j_rvsMEB-qNDKYx5EgZ_PhQVkHVNakyhDdGBzriCz9xgvmD6ZqYSsUVNilV8Pa_MlJtIVMzsHv4-0IBWSdVhkubpDdZizDohw76UGwPlqmRbhD49ytGdSFW-gZoloyQ/s1600-h/PICT0048.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtaBG-A3O2Q6j05j_rvsMEB-qNDKYx5EgZ_PhQVkHVNakyhDdGBzriCz9xgvmD6ZqYSsUVNilV8Pa_MlJtIVMzsHv4-0IBWSdVhkubpDdZizDohw76UGwPlqmRbhD49ytGdSFW-gZoloyQ/s400/PICT0048.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242366542275824754" border="0" /></a><br />Here's a simple after school snack. And from what <a href="http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=18203237">people are saying</a>, get the yellow corn over white. Although corn started out white thousands of years ago, after a genetic mutation which turned the corn yellow, it also acquired a chemical called carotenoids. This chemical is now found to have high levels of vitamin A. <span style="font-size:78%;">(npr.org)</span><br /><br />Your kids will be pleased that they can eat popcorn over carrots now to improve their sight!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYgUgdtnJO0Qrj0DZzohL91LJ4-bCLk9IiQ3QAYS86nl8MMHtKBJyuJ8bi45CCdJ2uSVhBd5j9kiFMUTCaDbXTYYv4XbYF8eKKriuz3YL2Z8DPDr_hlvUpvdI3riKW0IqR87v64cAEYSz/s1600-h/PICT0052.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYgUgdtnJO0Qrj0DZzohL91LJ4-bCLk9IiQ3QAYS86nl8MMHtKBJyuJ8bi45CCdJ2uSVhBd5j9kiFMUTCaDbXTYYv4XbYF8eKKriuz3YL2Z8DPDr_hlvUpvdI3riKW0IqR87v64cAEYSz/s400/PICT0052.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242366546535784530" border="0" /></a><br />It is simple:<br /><br />Pop your popcorn. I prefer using the <a href="http://www.popcornpopper.com/24000.html">Whirley Poppe</a>r because it is so easy to use. Once your stove top is hot, put oil and corn in and crank the handle. You really get perfect popcorn every time.<br /><br />Then experiment with toppings. I like to shave parmesan cheese on the popcorn while it is hot. Fresh parmesan is salty and pungent enough to hold its own without adding much more.<br /><br />And the great part, it takes 5 minutes to make. What is your favorite popcorn topping?Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-20659976457738724702008-08-25T08:45:00.000-07:002008-09-04T20:26:52.362-07:00Simple vs. Complex<a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdp-wIxo9IVh_kYfgQdamPgbJhHt-VwNnUrJTLW9x-C_SYDP5JyCzjdhOtlEKTBaiP4dkoiDCJFoWsA4amaebG0VT1ahyphenhyphenPhtVGC_vX19a578kCTXbeFuCD7w9dNFClWEGgeuWjLkIwqLM/s1600-h/simple+vs+complex.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdp-wIxo9IVh_kYfgQdamPgbJhHt-VwNnUrJTLW9x-C_SYDP5JyCzjdhOtlEKTBaiP4dkoiDCJFoWsA4amaebG0VT1ahyphenhyphenPhtVGC_vX19a578kCTXbeFuCD7w9dNFClWEGgeuWjLkIwqLM/s400/simple+vs+complex.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5241414071856833010" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Carbs. One day they're evil, the next they're overindulged. What are we to think? The diet world would have us obsessed over the bun of a burger. "I'd like mine </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">without</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> the bun, please," is a common line now a days. (Which, if you're out at McDonalds eating a burger, fry, and soda, I don't think the </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">bun</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> is your biggest concern.)</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">So what is the trick with these carbs? And does it really matter if we're eating a lot of simple or complex carbs?</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Simple Carbohydrates</span><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">are turned into glucose quickly while complex carbs take longer to change into glucose. What does this do for you? Simple carbs give you quick boosts of energy while complex lengthen out sustained energy for your body. Translation: complex carbs fill you up much better then simple.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Simple Carbohydrates</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> include:</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">fruit</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">fruit juice</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">milk</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">honey</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">yogurt</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">refined sugars</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">refined flours</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Complex Carbohydrates</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> include:</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">vegetables</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">whole grain breads</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">whole grain cereals</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">legumes</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">whole grain pasta</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Here is a great example: the difference between white rice, an enriched grain, which falls in the simple carb category vs. brown rice, which is a complex carb. Interestingly, both are rice, but both with give energy in a different way and fill your appetite differently. The brown rice will sustain you much longer then the white rice. Another bonus to filling most of your daily carbs with complex is the additional fiber, vitamins, and nutrients found within most. The brown rice, for example, has about 3.5g of fiber per cup, while the white rice doesn't even have 1g per cup. </span><br /><br /><table style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr bg=""><td bg="" width="130"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" > </span><br /></td> <td align="middle" width="180"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Brown Rice (one cup)</span> </b></td> <td bg="" align="middle" width="180"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >White Rice (one cup)</span> </b></td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Calories </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >232</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >223</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Protein </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >4.88 g</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >4.10 g</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Carbohydrate </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >49.7 g</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >49.6 g</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Fat </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >1.17 g</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.205 g</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Dietary Fiber</span> </div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >3.32 g</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.74 g</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Thiamin (B1) </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.176 g</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.223 g</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Riboflavin (B2) </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.039 mg </span></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.021 mg</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Niacin (B3) </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >2.730 mg </span></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >2.050 mg</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Vitamin B6 </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.294 mg</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.103 mg</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Folacin </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >10 mcg</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >4.1 mcg</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Vitamin E </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >1.4 mg</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.462 mg</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Magnesium </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >72.2 mg</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >22.6 mg </span></td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Phosphorus </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >142 mg</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >57.4 mg</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Potassium </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >137 mg</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >57.4 mg</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Selenium</span> </div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >26 mg</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >19 mg</span> </td> </tr> <tr> <td bg=""> <div align="right"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Zinc </span></div></td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >1.05 mg</span> </td> <td bg="" align="middle"><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >0.841 mg</span> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><br />(Chart taken from DrLam.com)</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In conclusion, eat both simple and complex carbs, but mostly complex in your diet. When eating simple carbs, eat fruit, yogurt, and milk, and avoid the refined white and brown sugars, enriched breads, cereals and sweets. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">You CAN turn many of your current "simple" foods into complex, which would totally improve the function of your body, appetite, and energy.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Try:</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">White to brown rice</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">White to whole wheat bread</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">White hot dog/hamburger buns to whole wheat buns</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Fruit Loops to Chex or Cheerios</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Enriched pasta to whole grain pasta, or a mix of both</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Give you and your kids something to actually satisfy their appetite!</span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080167039172625158.post-18766304685685687952008-08-12T11:13:00.000-07:002008-08-13T12:31:20.524-07:00The Health Nut's Cookie<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoN8FMHCnla8VNyYMeaiDaRMSJeSbCB0CPYGNVp5dtZuBPH3jLZa_d67QWic6FKaoL8KLSl1sS-cQq-Pk8VyRLozzS0JhgoMVrIFklhpT0-jUx43BheMmzDKxb1si_Ybo-_1Czs9z8YUR/s1600-h/PICT0071.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoN8FMHCnla8VNyYMeaiDaRMSJeSbCB0CPYGNVp5dtZuBPH3jLZa_d67QWic6FKaoL8KLSl1sS-cQq-Pk8VyRLozzS0JhgoMVrIFklhpT0-jUx43BheMmzDKxb1si_Ybo-_1Czs9z8YUR/s400/PICT0071.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228130382866667698" border="0" /></a><br />Here's a great cookie for the health nut in you. Loaded with whatever dried fruit you have on hand and nuts, these cookies act more like a granola bar that totally satisfies rather than an overly sweetened cookie would. These are the kind of cookies you'd want your kids to get a liking to because of their heartiness and flavor with fruit and whole wheat.<br /><br />If you've never tried baking a whole wheat cookie, try it. The orange juice in this recipe and many whole wheat recipes tones down some of the bitterness of pure whole wheat. You'll be surprised at how good a 100% whole wheat cookie can taste.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTy4t1CdBYKErZ25srbVTI180rIuqWwFrnwcGY6dcRLchyphenhyphen_0-sx7oyNchvfbiHX5fNg3b94C_9AMpdShn9IhoFkHuYF4HCRlhRroYIxEsvi_O43cOgrZLBiL033DAFqJxF1zj9cveNe23M/s1600-h/PICT0063.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTy4t1CdBYKErZ25srbVTI180rIuqWwFrnwcGY6dcRLchyphenhyphen_0-sx7oyNchvfbiHX5fNg3b94C_9AMpdShn9IhoFkHuYF4HCRlhRroYIxEsvi_O43cOgrZLBiL033DAFqJxF1zj9cveNe23M/s400/PICT0063.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228130371476962418" border="0" /></a>Cranberry-Apricot Chocolate Chews<br /><br />(Adapted from King Arthur Flour Whole Grain Baking)<br />Yields 2.5 dozen cookies<br /><br />1/2 c. (1 stick) unsalted butter<br />3/4 c. packed light brown sugar<br />2 TBSP orange juice<br />1 tsp vanilla extract<br />1/2 tsp baking powder<br />1/4 tsp baking soda<br />1/4 tsp salt<br />1 large egg<br />1 1/4 c. traditional whole wheat flour<br />2/3 c. semisweet chocolate chips (I use a mix of semisweet and milk chocolate--the extra sweetness from the milk chocolate gives this cookie more flavor)<br />2/3 c. dried cranberries (I've tried a mixture of cranberries, pineapple, and apricots)<br />2/3 c. dried apricots, snipped into 4 to 6 pieces each<br />2/3 c. chopped pecans<br /><br /><br />Preheat the oven to 350F. Lightly grease 2 baking sheets or line with parchment paper.<br /><br />Cream the butter, sugar, orange juice, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium mixing bowl. Beat in the eggs, scraping the bowl. The mixture will look curdled; that's OK. Add the flour, beating until smooth. Stir in the chocolate chips, cranberries, apricots and pecans. Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls on the the prepared baking sheets.<br /><br />Bake the cookies, reversing the pans midway through (top to bottom, bottom to top), until they're barely beginning to brown around the edges, 14-15 minutes. They won't look set in the center. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the pan.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrhfQ5-NHkGoBZ4e72kofYhU64H7GHIarrd-pGwZxUjTXQRlWyNrSsLx96dypQiXgoWT4H6lKoeEmG9cB_PEJHF5vqYXnytlyJ_WE7qQEDxqNUiPVB4n5tM5kV7kcdkEe2h_YIksLmm_O-/s1600-h/PICT0066.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrhfQ5-NHkGoBZ4e72kofYhU64H7GHIarrd-pGwZxUjTXQRlWyNrSsLx96dypQiXgoWT4H6lKoeEmG9cB_PEJHF5vqYXnytlyJ_WE7qQEDxqNUiPVB4n5tM5kV7kcdkEe2h_YIksLmm_O-/s400/PICT0066.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228130397641806978" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishKECGdrCpoIQFYqDiLY7Vhd_NwJTAlPSMUaYs2GvE2HUBHI3aKkSAFbnBxpsSCbTyeuqpl7OPVzp6Yv8cI-FGi-bWqTjmhNs2uldczGeePvGFf9gYGNW9pMtTIkrik0kajZwdC5zxVVh/s1600-h/PICT0069.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishKECGdrCpoIQFYqDiLY7Vhd_NwJTAlPSMUaYs2GvE2HUBHI3aKkSAFbnBxpsSCbTyeuqpl7OPVzp6Yv8cI-FGi-bWqTjmhNs2uldczGeePvGFf9gYGNW9pMtTIkrik0kajZwdC5zxVVh/s400/PICT0069.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228130405045547426" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HNP5iGwiOqXs6vHCqwuRPe4qmP3Hh0f7dh6jjMyqUEuCUhitPPdbbGc1eB_0VfekZL-pF8R3A76GDbKY2GHddkDBacydbaazTF6FQ-51qc7ThGqoycOVaoj8xdwQ4zOJx4gSKoGHPbfV/s1600-h/PICT0072.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HNP5iGwiOqXs6vHCqwuRPe4qmP3Hh0f7dh6jjMyqUEuCUhitPPdbbGc1eB_0VfekZL-pF8R3A76GDbKY2GHddkDBacydbaazTF6FQ-51qc7ThGqoycOVaoj8xdwQ4zOJx4gSKoGHPbfV/s400/PICT0072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228130999987699074" border="0" /></a>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03812802460591962065noreply@blogger.com5