K from KsKronicles

Double Chocolate Chip Bars

2012-01-28T21:29:00.003-05:00

Here is a very Easy Peasy Recipe for Double Chocolate Chip Bars...

I first lined a square baking pan with Parchment Paper and spray the top and sides of the paper with cooking spray. Make sure you leave paper hanging over the sides for easy "lift out" after baking...

I always have pre-made cookie mix on hand. I never know when the mood or taste buds will be screaming for some gooey goodness..!

I followed the directions on the package of the cookie mix and placed 3/4 of the mix on the bottom of the cake pan. Then I Generously layered the chocolate chips on top of the first layer of mix and topped with the remaining of the cookie mix...as you can see I did not skimp on the chocolate chips:)

After baking for approx 25 mins on 375 degrees...I let the baked bars cool slightly and then lifted them carefully out of the pan with the parchment paper. After they set for a few more minutes I cut them into small bars. You can see how nice the sides baked with the pan lined with the parchment paper. No hard or over baked sides. Just Lovely..!!

I had to try a piece...! Every good baker tastes their food, right!!?

It was so easy to cut into bars. I lined the pan with plastic wrap, gently placing each bar back into the clean pan. I was able to get two rows of bars, placing another piece of plastic wrap on the top of the first row and then placed the second row on top of the bottom row.
Securely wrapped the top row and placed the lid on the pan.

EASY PEASY..!!!
And so good!

Enjoy your week-end, friends!
K

2012-01-23T19:48:00.000-05:00

Dried Apricots....Are so Yummmy!

And add a little chocolate...Spectacular!!

I purchased these Apricots for a family member who is recovering from surgery. Her recovery is a very slow process and her appetite has been greatly diminished. Between her daughter and myself, we are trying to provide her with the foods she may be craving in order to keep her body nourished and get stronger. Her recent requests were some Dried Apricots and my Lemon Cookies...

I was able to get the Apricots to her this past weekend, however when she tasted one her response was,

"they taste like cardboard"...with that said, I suggested I take them home and coat with Chocolate. The suggestion was well received:)

I have to admit, they are very tasty with a bit of Chocolate!!

I took a half bag of Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels, placed them in a 2 cup glass measuring cup. Placed in the microwave for 2 1/2 minutes. Individually dip each Apricot in the chocolate and placed on wax paper for the chocolate to set.

While the chocolate set on the Apricots, I mixed a batch of Lemon Cookies....!

Someone is going to have some good treats tomorrow..!

Have a good week, my Friends!

How We Choose To Remember.....

2012-01-23T10:37:00.000-05:00

I'm sure at this time of reading my post you or many of you have learned of Joe Paterno's passing.

I'm not going to list all the reasons or why JoePa should be remembered.

I will share with you a Tribute my Cousin posted after learning of his death.

"Sad, Sad day. I feel like I lost a member of my family. Joe Pa wasn't just the coach of my favorite team, he was my coach. He taught me how to be a coach and what the top priorities in coaching should be; family, academics, honesty, humility. I made the comment to my friend, Jamie Belk the other week that he wouldn't last 6 months after he lost his job. Sad that I was right. Truly sad that Landon will never see him walk the Sideline. Says something about a football coach who has a library named after him. Hope he is remembered for his positive contributions and not the actions of another man." -Todd Stokes

A little back ground on Todd...

Todd has his Masters in Education, he has been the football and wrestling coach for the district in which he teaches for several years. Todd has also been voted and awarded the "Best Coach" within his coaching league. Last week Todd and his wife celebrated the birth of their second child, a son Landon.

I know I can speak for many within our family, we agree with Todd's choice of words for JoePa.

May his family find peace and surround themselves with the love of so many who give their love and support. God Bless the Paterno Family......

Have a great week friends and find your inner Joy and walk in His Love......

K

Take That, January....!

2012-01-20T21:33:00.000-05:00

January is quickly coming to a close for 2012 and I will share I am not sad to see it leave. We're only now getting cold temperatures and snow in the forecast for this weekend here in PA. I am not a fan of the white stuff any more, only if I can stay put sitting by a roaring fire. I'm hoping for an early Spring!

There has been so much going on and then as I reflect back on all the happenings,

it really is just the busyness of life.

This past week was here and gone within a blink of an eye, busy with the Salon along with the every day activities and chores in need of being done. The highs of the week have been talking with a new blogger friend, a new birth and completing over due "catch up" around the house from the Holidays. The lows, an illness with a family member that seems to be taking set-backs rather than forward and conquer..after several days of reiterating and focusing on the issues some progress has been made and hoping for a positive prognosis and continuing to move forward. Also a death this past week with services arranged for tomorrow which includes a snow storm.. And my Steelers wont be playing in the Super Bowl!

After a long and mentally exhausted week I'm looking forward to relaxing most of the weekend, I do have a batch of my Lemon Cookies to bake per special request for someone very special, which will be baked and delivered also sometime this weekend.

So my friends, January can close with a swift kick in the behind and it wouldn't make me sad at all..!

How many more days til Spring..!??

Thanks for stopping by...!

Hugs my Friends,
K

2012-01-16T20:18:00.000-05:00

A Little On Top, Please...

That's....a little bit of Rich and Creamy Butter!

This sculpture was created for and displayed at this year's 100th PA Farm Show Anniversary. The case protecting this beautiful work of art which was created with over 1000 pounds of sweet butter, was displayed in the Main Hall of the Farm Show Complex. The Main Hall also happened to be the same area for the Hershey Chocolate Cake Contest I entered...(few posts below)

I was able to get some very clear pictures of the sculpture and wanted to share with you all..!

The Sculpture depicts a 4-H member and his calf with a fair queen presenting

the young person with a ribbon.

The sculpture really was a sight to see...!

And How About All That BUTTER..!!?

All that butter sure would make a lotta Cake and Icing...!

Thanks for stopping by...

2012-01-16T16:56:00.000-05:00

Sad Day in the Restaurant World

Founder of Cracker Barrel has Passed..

"The company said Monday that Evins — known as Danny — died Saturday in Lebanon, Tenn. No cause of death was given.

Evins opened his first restaurant in Lebanon, Tenn., in 1969. The restaurant catered to highway travelers and focused on offering Southern hospitality, country-style cooking and an associated gift shop that came to define the chain.
He fashioned the restaurant after the country stores of his youth in rural Tennessee and used a number of family recipes. The restaurant was named after the practice of customers gathering at country stores to share news and play checkers on top of an empty barrel that had been used to deliver crackers to the store.
Evins helped build the chain into a national brand as CEO from 1969 to 2001 and chairman until he retired in 2004. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc., headquartered in Lebanon, Tenn., now operates more than 600 restaurants in 42 states.
“Danny was a straight-shooter and dedicated to authenticity. It was an honor and a responsibility that I took seriously to follow Danny as CEO, and then as chairman when he retired.” Cracker Barrel Executive Chairman Michael Woodhouse said in a statement. “Danny was the keeper of this special brand for so many, many years, and he left us with a strong culture that values quality and honesty. He will be missed deeply.”
Survivors include five children. A private funeral service was being planned."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/business

Cracker Barrel has always been my Favorite Restaurant stop while travel via car....I have a map which I up date frequently listing all the Cracker Barrels along the US roads. My stops and travel route are sometimes determined by the locations of a Cracker Barrel. I have eaten many Breakfasts, Lunch and Dinners where the food is never disappointing and the company is great..! I especially like the gift shops, how their goods and gifts cater to the local area and community with each restaurant along with some same all time favorites they sell at each location. Many thoughts and prayers are with the Evins Family.....

Thanks for stopping by and have a fantastic week, my friends..!

2012-01-12T23:28:00.002-05:00

The Refreshing Side of Things...

To know me, I Love Chocolate! I have a very good friend who tells others frequently, "If one wants to give K something she really likes, give her Chocolate!". Well, I must confess...for as much as I love the Chocolate, I equally Love Orange, Cranberry and Nuts all mixed together in any form of Cake..!

I crave it....frequently

It's my weakness to all sweets!

It has Orange and Cranberry and Walnuts...that makes it healthy, RIGHT!!?

Here is what I mixed together and placed in a Bunt Cake Pan

I started with a Yellow Cake Box Mix...

Added:

Rind from a large Orange

Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice from the same Orange

Three eggs

1/3 cup of oil

Water combined with Orange Juice to make 1 cup

After mixed well, Add your Dried Cranberries and Walnuts...
I usually just "dump" an unmeasured amount of the
Cranberries and Walnuts...which would properly measure
1/2 cup of Cranberries
1 Cup of Walnuts

Spray pan with Cooking Spray

Bake at 350 for 30-35 mins...

After the cake cooled for a few mins I inverted onto a plate

and added an Orange Glaze on top.

Glaze

Orange Rind from Large Orange

Orange Juice from Large Orange

One cup of Powdered Sugar

The picture shows the cake much darker than it really is...

If you look very close, you can see the Orange Rind with the Cranberries and Walnuts...

You can make your Glaze thicker,

I wanted the glaze thin so it would seep into the cake giving even more of an Orange Flavor.

Tomorrow I will cut the cake into separate individual pieces, wrap in freezer wrap and freeze them for an easy grab on the go with my coffee:)

Thanks for stopping by and have a fantastic week-end!

Final Hershey Cake Contest

2012-01-08T01:05:00.001-05:00

And The Winner Is...

There were 75 cakes to be judged...

That's a lotta chocolate cake!

Listed below are the top 5 winning cakes at the PA State Farm Show...

My cake was tasted twice by the judges, however did not make the final cut. My thoughts are, I lost points on presentation. When I decided to enter this at the Local Level, It really was on a whim and I learned more complete protocol after the fact. Next year if I decide to enter, (I'm already brain storming presentation) I will be more prepared.

First place winner

2nd Place

3rd Place

4th Place

5th place

My cake

YES...My name is spelled incorrectly!

Not sure how that happened, all was correct on my submitted forms.

My cake being judged

This truly has been a great experience..!

Congratulations to the Final Winners...!!

2012-01-06T21:40:00.001-05:00

Round Two with the Hershey Cake...

Today was registration from 3-5pm at the Harrisburg Farm Show Complex for the Hershey Cake Competition. Tomorrow is the official start of the Farm Show with additional registration starting at 8am to 11am. Judging starts at 2:30pm for the chocolate cake lasting approximately two hours. I was hoping I would be able to register today and not have to worry about being there on time with the traffic and rush of people. Fortunately it worked out and I was able to accomplish registration this afternoon.

My cake number is 7.

After registration was complete I was handed the bag below filled with some Goodies from Hershey Corporation. Inside was a White Apron, a very nice set of metal measuring spoons, a small cake spatula, Hershey's Cocoa and Hershey's Semi-Sweet Morsels...

I'm really lovin this Apron...!

Measuring Spoons and Cake Spatula

The set of Measuring Spoons are very good quality as well as the Cake Spatula..!!

This has been such a great experience! And I am anxious to see all the cakes tomorrow that are already WINNERS..!

THANKS HERSHEY..!!

2012-01-05T22:36:00.002-05:00

It's the Little Things That Sometimes Remind Us Of the Big Things and What Matters the Most..

Today I received a package in the mail from a New Blogger Friend, Tricia at Hillcrest Home Prims.

Inside the package was this handmade Tea Stained Prim Pillow and the newest Edition of Rachel Ray's Magazine. I have to admit, I can't recall ever reading or picking up to browse through a copy of Rachel's Magazine. With that said, I certainly have been missing out on some good recipes and good articles.

Thank You, Tricia..!!

If you follow my blog, this past Fall I won first place in the Local Competition for a Hershey's Cake Bake. This was my very first time entering any type of a baking competition, so you can imagine how stunned and shocked I was to learn I had won first place. The rules and regulations are directly from Hershey Corporation, Hershey PA. All first place winners at the local levels automatically qualify for the State Competition in Harrisburg at the State Farm Show Complex in January. The Farm Show starts this Sunday for the public. I must register my Chocolate Cake at the Complex by Saturday morning before 11am. with Judging promptly at 2:30pm on Saturday afternoon. One of the Judges for the State Level is the Head Pastry Chef at Hotel Hershey....this is serious stuff! I'm totally thrilled and honored to be apart of this contest, the experience has been fun and very rewarding. Not to mention the awesome people I have met with common interests. I'll be sure to take lots of pictures of all the different yummy chocolate cakes and share with you all

Have a fun weekend and stay warm....

Thanks for stopping by,

2012-01-03T17:29:00.001-05:00

BRrrrrrrrrrrrrrr......

Winter has most definitely made his appearance!

A few days ago my cousin asked me if I would be available this day in the morning to be with her two grandchildren from Virgina, Miss Abby and Master Austin...

My cousin's Mother-In-Law passed suddenly this past weekend, to which her services were being held this morning at her church. The family had decided to not have the Great-Grandchildren attend the three hour service. Fortunately, I was available this morning to help out. I decided to take the material along for the Sock Snowmen I recently made thinking this would be a neat craft for Abby and Austin to make and take home to Virgina...and a remembrance of their Great-Grandmother, her farm is within a stone's throw of the church on this cold and flurry day.

Austin and Abby were more than excited when I shared what I had planned.....

Austin created Snowman Mr. James along with Abby's creation of Snowlady Miss Katie.

Austin with Mr. James....Abby with Miss Katie

The total time for this craft with a 5 and 7 year old was approximately one hour. If you would like the complete Tutorial on the Sock Snowmen, scroll down my page a bit where you will find complete instructions.

Thanks for stopping by and many Blessings..

2012-01-01T11:08:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year...!


Me with two of my Favorite Ladies...BFF's Mother and BFF

A Toast and Cheer to you for the New Year..!

Whew...now that the Holidays are finished, we all can relax a bit...

My "Old"" was taken out having dinner with 4 other couples, 10 of us gathered for a nice dinner of Prime Rib and lots of Sea Food. Then we did a bit of shopping and finished the evening back at Kathy's (BFF) for some after dinner/shopping cheer..! Kathy's mother was staying at her home, babysitting Chole, the family Bison. Chole hasn't been feeling well, her hip becomes dislocated causing her much discomfort:( Helen, (mom) is the sweetest Lady ever! I LOVE her, She is very quick witted and doesn't miss a beat..!

I was back home in time to see the Ball Drop in NYC, then lights out for me. My son was attending a private party within a gated community, (a live band with catered food..not too shabby!) the homes surround a beautiful Lake...it really is too bad the area is gated, because it would be a fantastic place to spend summer evenings. I did receive a message from my "Favorite" Son at Mid-Night wishing me a "Happy New Year" and also my brother Mike called me from Texas, so it was a great end of the Old Year and started the New One just fine..!!

Now it's time to put my Pork n Kraut into the Oven for a Good Old Pennsylvania Good Luck Meal!

Happy 2012

2011-12-26T20:00:00.000-05:00

Lemon Sugar Glazed Cookies

This was my first making this particular recipe for Lemon Cookies..and it is by far, the BEST Lemon Cookie I have ever eaten and very easy to make. I made this cookie the same day I wanted to give as a Holiday Gift, only because I wanted them to be the freshest possible for taste and texture. This cookie would also be fantastic for any party or shower made in a smaller form. I for one will be making this cookie recipe many more times in the future...! It's that GOOD!

Recipe

2 1/2 cups flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

2 cups white sugar

1/2 cup butter

2 eggs

1 15 oz. container ricotta cheese

zest and juice of 1 lemon

Cream together butter, eggs, and sugar. Add zest and lemon juice, and ricotta cheese and blend well. Add remaining ingredients and beat until well combined. Drop by small spoonfuls onto parchment lined cookie sheets and bake @375 for 12-14 minutes. Cookies will remain very light creamy in color. Do not over bake. ( I used a small ice cream scoop to make uniform sizes. If you put the dough in the fridge for about 1/2 hour to chill it is easier using the scoop)

IMMEDIATELY remove cookies to cooling rack and glaze while still warm. I topped a small amount of the icing onto each cookie, allowed the icing to soften from the warm cookie and then gently spread the icing around, I also topped with large white sugar granules before the icing set. Once the icing is spread it does not take long for it to set, so if your wanting to add a little extra sparkle I suggest this be done before moving on to the next cookie...

Glaze

1 1/2 cups icing sugar

zest and juice of 1 lemon

The glaze will set almost immediately.

This dough is very soft and fluffy....easy to work with.

I chilled the dough for about a half hour before baking..to ensure long lasting chill after removing from refrigeration, use a class mixing bowl.

Thanks for stopping by and have a fantastic week!

2011-12-25T00:30:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas..!

Hoping Santa was good to you...!

The story of how Rudolph came to be

You know Dasher and Dancer and the rest of the gang. But do you recall, the most "Perfect Christmas Crowd-Bringer" of all?

That's how executives at Montgomery Ward originally described Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, who first appeared in a 1939 book written by one of the company's advertising copywriters and given free to children as a way to drive traffic to the stores.

A first edition of "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer", bottom, and an original layout, top, part of a special collection at Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H. The book is from the estate of Robert May, a Dartmouth graduate who wrote the famous story in 1939 as part of a Montgomery Ward marketing campaign.
AP Photo/Toby Talbot

Curious to know more about how Rudolph really went down in history? It's all in the pages of a long-overlooked scrapbook compiled by the story's author, Robert L. May, and housed at his alma mater, Dartmouth College.

May donated his handwritten first draft and illustrated mock-up to Dartmouth before his death at age 71 in 1976, and his family later added to what has become a large collection of Rudolph-related documents and merchandise, including a life-sized papier-mache reindeer that now stands among the stacks at the Rauner Special Collections Library. But May's scrapbook about the book's launch and success went unnoticed until last year, when Dartmouth archivist Peter Carini came across it while looking for something else.

"No one on staff currently knew we had it. I pulled it out and all the pieces started falling out. It was just a mess," Carini said.

The scrapbook, which has since been restored and cataloged, includes May's list of possible names for his story's title character — from Rodney and Rollo to Reginald and Romeo. There's a map showing how many books went to each state and letters of praise from adults and children alike.

The scrapbook also chronicles the massive marketing campaign Montgomery Ward launched to drum up newspaper coverage of the book giveaway and its efforts to promote it within the company.

Near the front of the scrapbook is a large colored poster instructing Montgomery Ward stores about how to order and distribute the book. An illustration of Rudolph sweeps across the page, his name written in ornate script. There are exclamation points galore. "The rollinckingest, rip-roaringest, riot-provokingest, Christmas give-away your town has ever seen!" ''A laugh and a thrill for every boy and girl in your town (and for their parents, too!)"

Rudolph is described as "the perfect Christmas crowd-bringer," if stores follow a few rules, including giving the book only to children accompanied by adults. "This will limit 'street urchin' traffic to a minimum, and will bring in the PARENTS ... the people you want to sell!"

The response was overwhelming — at a time when a print-run of 50,000 books was considered a best-seller, the company gave away more than 2 million copies that first year and by the following year was selling an assortment of Rudolph-themed toys and other items.

But lest this become a story about corporate greed, it should be noted that in 1947, Montgomery Ward took the unusual step of turning over the copyright to the book to May, who was struggling financially after the death of his first wife.

"He then made several million dollars using that in various ways, through the movie, the song, merchandising and things like that," Carini said. "I think it's a great story because it shows how corporations used to think of themselves as part of civil society and how much that has changed."

May eventually left Montgomery Ward to essentially manage Rudolph's career, which really took off after May's brother-in-law Johnny Marks wrote the song (made famous by Gene Autry in 1949), and the release of a stop-motion animated television special in 1964.

Both the song and movie depart significantly from May's original plot, however. In May's story, Rudolph doesn't live at the North Pole or grow up aspiring to pull Santa's sleigh — he lives in a reindeer village and Santa discovers him while filling Rudolph's stocking on a foggy Christmas Eve.

"And you," Santa tells Rudolph, "May yet save the day! Your wonderful forehead may yet pave the way!'"

May's story is written in verse, similar to "The Night Before Christmas" by Clement Clarke Moore, and opens, "'Twas the day before Christmas and all through the hills/ The reindeer were playing ... enjoying the spills."

"It's lovely to hear it read out loud, it really comes alive," Virginia Herz, one of May's daughters, said in a phone interview this week.

As a small child, Herz, who declined to reveal her age, didn't think there was anything unusual about growing up in a house surrounded by Rudolph merchandise. It wasn't until she was older that she realized her father's job of "taking care of Rudolph" was a bit different. She tells her grandchildren that their great-grandpa wrote a story about Rudolph, not that he created the character.

"As I child, that's how I felt. I knew my dad had written a wonderful book about Rudolph and now there were Rudolph toys and other things all around us," she said. "But it was no different than the guy next door who sold cars, or the guy down the street who was a painting contractor."

She acknowledges the myths that have become entwined in Rudolph's history — including the notion that May wrote the story as a Christmas gift for his older daughter, Barbara, when his wife was dying of cancer and that a Montgomery Ward manager "caught wind of the little storybook." In reality, Montgomery Ward assigned May to write a Christmas book around the same time his wife was ill, Herz said.

''What's out there on the Internet is a softer telling," she said. "My dad was aware of it and considered it appropriate. There's the softer, romantic version and the more fact-based version."

Herz said her father would be thrilled to see how his creation and its many incarnations have become part of American culture.

"I think he would be startlingly amazed," she said. "It really is an eternal part of Christmas. He would have been amazed."

I found the story of Rudolph very interesting...wouldn't it be great if corporations would bring back some of that mentality of being part of "Civil Society"..!!?

2011-12-21T20:44:00.002-05:00

Today my Bestie and I had our annual Holiday gathering of exchanging gifts and then dinner. This year was no exception Kathy surprising me with gifts that are so me....the first picture below I am holding a Cupcake Timer from her daughter, Amy. The second picture is a Lantern Post from Kathy to which quickly found a home on my Fireplace Hearth. I had a strand of Rice Lights I had picked up a while back and knew they would be the perfect final touch to the Lantern Post. I gifted Kathy the Sock Snowman and Ladies I made along with some homemade goodies. Kathy LOVES snowmen! Her home totally reflects her love for Mr and Mrs Frosty...

The lit tree to the right is a Norfolk Pine I purchased this Holiday Season and decorated for Christmas. I will keep the lights on and place it in my Sun Room after Christmas. Since our beloved Yorkie, Pete is no longer with us I am able to once again have plants in the Sun Room. Pete claimed the Sun Room as part of his territory and he was not fond of anything "green" in this part of his domain... I tried many many times over the years with different plants in this area only to be reminded by Pete he did not like the "green" stuff..! He even chewed a wicker planter I had an artificial plant in..! I guess he figured if he can't kill the plant, he'll kill the planter..to which he did! But, I wouldn't have traded him for any plant or planter and miss him every day..especially this time of year. Pete had his own matching family Christmas Stocking and that stinker knew on Christmas morning he got goodies also from Santa..!

It's hard to believe in a few days Christmas will be here...

Thanks for stopping by!

2011-12-19T17:14:00.000-05:00

Sock Snowmen and Snow-ladies....

This craft of Sock Snowmen and Snow-ladies was so easy and fun to make. And very inexpensive, which is a win for me! I'll link the post for complete instructions at the bottom of this post.

Link to Sock Snowmen

So Easy...!!

Flash Mob performs the Hallelujah Chorus at the Lancaster Central Market

2011-12-18T20:19:00.000-05:00

I wish I had been at Lancaster Central Market yesterday when the
"Flash Mob" was there...!!

In the Midst of the singing was my Son's Middle School Music Teacher...

I recognized him immediately....my son not so fast when I showed him the video;/ response was, "Mom, seriously..that was what? 9 years ago!!".....Son, 9 years ago really is NOT that long ago when it comes to memory...Geezz

Enjoy the Video!!!

2011-12-14T19:14:00.000-05:00

Cinnammmmonnnn, Please...!!

This Cinnamon Spread is just.....finger lip smackin good!

If you ever had the Cinnamon Butter served at the Texas Roadhouse, this spread comes very very close to same yummy recipe.

Warning: You must eat topped on a warm piece of homemade bread, warm muffin or toasted bagel..

*you get the idea:)

This spread would be great for any time of the year and event, no matter how big or small.

Recipe

1/4 c. butter, softened

1/4 c. brown sugar

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

I mixed the cinnamon and nutmeg together with the brown sugar...making sure brown sugar is free of ALL lumps... I then added the soft butter and mixed well with mixer until very smooth and fluffy. Chill and serve over warm bread....

I was able to find a set of four small round plastic containers with lids at the Dollar Store..they worked great for storing this spread and also look quite nice for Gift Giving. I actually made two pounds of this recipe at one time and divided the spread into the containers. With each container I will add a fresh loaf of baked bread. The loaf will be pre-sliced and packaged in a clear heavy plastic food bag to ensure freshness should the receiver want to freeze the bread. Freezing the bread is the smart thing to do if your like me and do not eat bread everyday....

The one recipe I have left on my list to bake for the Holiday Season is a batch of Lemon Cookies with a Lemon Glazed Icing. I wanted this cookie to be as fresh as possible for Gift Giving.

Thanks for stopping by...

2011-12-13T20:33:00.003-05:00

Marshmallow Heaven...

My blogger friend, Christine over at "Wash, Fold, Put Away and Repeat" posted this Homemade Marshmallow Recipe and I knew I had to try it!!

See recipe below...

3 packages unflavored gelatin (1 box has for packets inside)
1 cup ice cold water, divided
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch

Nonstick spray

Prepare a 13x9" pan by spraying with nonstick spray and dusting with confectioner's sugar and cornstarch. Reserve the remaining sugar/cornstarch mixture.

Empty gelatin into mixer bowl fitted with whisk attachment. Pour 1/2 cup of the cold water over the gelatin.

Stir 1/2 cup of cold water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for a few minutes and attach a candy thermometer.

Once the mixture reaches 240F (almost 10 min), quickly remove it from the heat and pour into the mixer with the gelatin. Turn the mixer on the lowest setting until the gelatin and sugar are combined.

Increase the mixer speed to its highest setting until the mixture is unbelievably thick. This will take up to 15 minutes depending on the mixer. Add the vanilla and whip to combine.

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.

Dust the top with confectioner's sugar. Let it sit for 3 hours (I let mine sit over night since it was getting late). The longer, the better.

Turn the mixture out onto a cutting board. ...one that has been heavily dusted with even more confectioner's sugar and corn starch. Prepare a bowl of several tablespoons of cornstarch and confectioner's sugar. Set aside. Using a knife or metal cutter dusted with cornstarch or confectioner's sugar, slice the marshmallows. Place individual marshmallows into the bowl and turn to coat. Store in a zip lock bag or glass jar.

The only thing I would do different...

Make a Double Batch!!

I saved all the left over pieces for ME..!!!

2011-12-12T19:09:00.001-05:00

Santa came early this past weekend......

I came home after a fun filled Saturday to my Christmas Gift of a new microwave from my Favorite Son..!! The microwave that was replaced had a long life span of 26 years, it was time to retire it to the waste management facility that cost me $10.00 for them to safely dispose of it...

Saturday started very busy at the Salon and ending with a Birthday Party for my Niece's little Sweetie, Miss Aubree...Miss Aubree had her 1st Birthday Party on Saturday, and I have to say that I have not ever been to a child's 1st party where the child really did enjoy themselves the entire time..!!! Aubree was so happy during the entire party, never tiring or becoming grumpy or "done" with the party and cake thing...!!

Below are a few pictures of Miss Aubree during her first Birthday Party, you be the judge of her excitement and charm:)

Birthday Girl is Stylin..

Aunt Kathy and Miss Aubree

This smile was seen through out the party..!!

Stylin a new hat

Opening Aunt Kathy's Gift

"Around The Farm Animal Sounds" Book

My personal trend has been for many years, to gift an educational book that is age appropriate. Miss Aubree also received a Red Ruffled Sweater from Aunt Kathy which was quickly placed back into the package by her mother, I wasn't fast enough to get a picture...

Look at that smile

Yes, I think Miss Aubree had a fun first Birthday...!

*I think our church needs a new highchair;/

2011-12-08T23:20:00.001-05:00

Let The Festivities Start...

Baking preparations for my annual Christmas party at church...

Serious baking took place yesterday with finishing touches completed today...

One large Chocolate cake with PB Frosting, Two cakes in form of Christmas Trees with one being chocolate with PB Frosting and the other a yellow cake with PB Chocolate Frosting. Five dozen of cupcakes with the PB or Cream Cheese Frosting and Brownie Cupcakes with a Cream Cheese Frosting...

All will be given as prizes during the party, except for the Large Chocolate cake which will be put on the buffet table for dessert..

After this week, I can finish my craft for gift given and prepare my Christmas package which heads south, destination..Texas! Three special kiddos watch and wait for that package to arrive every year...:)

Enjoy this special time of the year, it's a bit hectic but so much fun..!!

2011-12-04T22:02:00.001-05:00

December is such a busy time of year with shopping, decorating and baking. And lets not forget the fun holiday get-togethers. This year I truly feel as though I have an early handle on the busy month a head. My holiday craft items have been purchased to which I will start to construct this week for gift giving. Shopping has been started with little to be done for completion, along with knitting and holiday cookie baking. Saturday I mixed double batches of chocolate and peanut butter blossoms, and sand tart cookie dough. Today (Sunday) my bestest friend and I started baking around noon the dough I had prepared, along with two different chocolate chip dough recipes Kathy (bestie) brought to bake. The afternoon of baking was so relaxing as we chatted away catching up on the happenings of our busy lives....I must confess, having prepared the dough a day or two a head of time really is the way to do a massive day of baking. For the large amount of cookies baked and a few short breaks, our total time was about 6 hours from start to finish. The key, prepare ahead and be organized the day of baking. Also, plan and make a light lunch that can be eaten as you work, this cuts the munching down on all those yummy cookies you've baked and suffering later with an outrageous sugar high:)

We were so busy baking not many pictures were taken, but I did manage a few...

below is Kathy and I with a pan of chocolate chip, Kathy's recipe of dark chewy and light chewy with walnuts. Her chocolate chip cookie recipe is one of the Best I have ever tasted...!!

Pictured are the dark chewy chocolate chip and chocolate blossoms..

After the baking was done....a little Wine to enjoy!

We both have enough cookies to start the season off with sharing and gifting. I have a Lemon Cookie topped with a lemon glaze I will be making this week sometime. I also will be baking mid week for our annual Christmas Party at Church for this coming Friday. I donate several different flavors of baked goods as prizes/gifts for those who win door prizes and games we play during the party. The Christmas Holiday Season gives me a good reason to bake and do all the fun things I so enjoy doing...

I'm hoping to attend a Christmas Concert also during the holiday season. There is just something about a concert of all your favorite Christmas Carols being sung by a Chorus...

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy this magical time of year..!

2011-11-24T20:01:00.001-05:00

Post Turkey Dinner

The beautiful flowers were a gift from my cousin Patti....

The table after all the preparations and Thanksgiving Dinner is done for another year!

I LOVE Thanksgiving...it's that one day of the year you prepare all your favorite dishes and desserts, and enjoy them with family and friends...

Some years you have more at the table and some years a little less, but it's all the same in the true spirit of giving Thanks...And with each year that comes and soon passes, I have so much to be thankful for..!!

Now it's time to get in the Holiday Spirit of Christmas...

I have started my Christmas shopping...Yes, I most certainly have!

I've really scaled back over the years with the amount I gift, as in quantity to one person. My mother was one to know exactly what one liked and shopped all year long for Christmas gifts. If she was out and about, found something appropriate to one's personal likes or taste, she snatched it up and saved it for Christmas. I have a tendency to do the same.. it saves you a lot of last minute shopping and searching. My big down fall shopping all year long is remembering what I already had purchased and sometimes where I hid it....:)

Here are a few great Black Friday deals for the Kitchen featured at

Love from the Oven

I already purchased the Cuisinart CSB-76 Smart Stick Immersion Hand Blender.

Regularly $55, it’s $28.99 on Amazon...

I've had my eye on one of these Immersion Hand Blenders for quite some time, but wasn't liking the cost.

I'm Glad I waited..and I got FREE shipping..!!

Merry Christmas to ME..:)

If your venturing out to take advantage of the specials and savings for Black Friday,

be safe and have fun!!

2011-11-15T17:24:00.001-05:00

Today was, purchase the Turkey Day..
I came home with a big boy of 20 pounds!

This Thanksgiving will be a mixture of friends and family at the table. I love to cook and fill the table with those who enjoy to eat:)

My stuffing and desserts are made and safely tucked away in my deep freezer, except for a chocolate cream pie, which I will prepare the day before Turkey Day. I am all for preparing what food can be prepared a head of time so the day itself is not so over whelming and pleasant for all, cook included!

Don't you just love Turkey Day??!!

The one day of the year you can eat til you bust and not feel guilty!!

Pumpkin Cheese Muffins

2011-11-12T17:20:00.001-05:00

Filling:

8 oz. / 250 gr cream cheese
1 egg
3 tablespoons sugar

Muffins:

1 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
4 eggs
2 cups pumpkin puree
3 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cloves
1 teaspoon ginger

Topping: Optional....I did not top my muffin

1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Directions:

For filling...combine cream cheese, sugar and egg in small bowl and mix well until smooth.
In large mixing bowl, combine oil and sugars.
Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in pumpkin puree.
Combine all the dry ingredients; add to batter and mix just until incorporated.
Grease muffin puns.
Put a spoonful of batter in the bottom of each muffin well (less than 1/3 full).
Drop a rounded teaspoon of cream cheese filling in the center of each muffin.
Top with remaining batter, spreading to cover cream cheese completely.
Sprinkle with crumb topping if desire
Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes

This was my first time using the muffin/cupcake mold from Pampered Chef...

I wasn't sure how the muffins would turn out, I must say...

I am thrilled with the results and form of the muffin from the mold!

I placed the muffins into the Tulip Paper Cups I had on hand,

these worked fantastic with the round bottoms that formed from using the mold...

Using the Tulip Papers enabled the muffins to stand on their own with the round bottoms..

YAY...I am very pleased with the outcome and the taste..

Two Thumbs Up!!

This container is ready for delivery to a family member who has been hospitalized for the past week...

She has her certificate in Culinary, I hope my Muffins pass the test;)

2011-11-12T13:16:00.001-05:00

Gingerhaus Manor Baking Kit

If your like I am..

Christmas is not Christmas without a Gingerbread House...!

My must do project every year with my Son when he was a wee bit younger, was to bake and create a Gingerbread House.

The house would be taken into his Elementary School Class a week or so before the Christmas break and displayed. During the class Christmas Party, which was usually the last day of school before the Holiday Vacation, each child wrote their name and placed it into a Christmas Box. My son would pick one name from the Box, to which became the Lucky Winner of the Gingerbread House...

Below is a completed kit from House on the Hill to create your own Gingerbread House

Completed Gingerhaus Manor Kit

2011-11-10T21:06:00.001-05:00

Pillsbury Grands Sticky Buns

They were so easy and delicious..!!

Spray Fluted Pan with Non Stick Spray

3 Tbsp. butter or margarine, melted

1/2 C. syrup

1/3 C. packed brown sugar

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

Add melted butter, syrup and cinnamon together

Pour a little more than half of liquid mixture on bottom of pan, sprinkle brown sugar on top

Place one can of Grands Biscuits around center of pan...You can use Buttermilk or Regular Biscuits

I brushed the remainder of the liquid on top of Biscuits..

Sprinkle more brown sugar on top

Bake at 375 degrees for 30 mins...Check baking progress after 20mins

Invert onto a plate/serving platter after 1 min removing from oven

Hot from the oven


Packaged for trip to Salon....

You can add Raisins, Nuts and Walnuts in with the liquid mixture before placing the Biscuits into pan

Make sure you have the coffee made...

Enjoy

2011-11-09T20:38:00.001-05:00

See that mouth watering Picture below...!?

That's what will be baking in my kitchen tomorrow morning...

Sticky Buns made with Pillsbury Grands Buttermilk Biscuits...

How easy is that..!!

I'll be sure to post the recipe tomorrow...

2011-11-02T17:51:00.000-04:00

My son is insisting I allow him to give me a new microwave for Christmas...

I know, don't kick a gift horse in the mouth, right?!

I just have this fetish with my son spending a large amount of money on me for any reason!!

He works long hours, attends school and like his parent's has a hard time saying "No" to those in need..

I worry about what the future is for our kids, as so many parents also do. You want your child to have the same opportunities we had at their age, which has become increasingly harder for young adults today then when I was their age...

I want him to save and put away as much savings as he can before the "real" responsibilities start

But knowing my son, he will win this battle;)

The Microwave I have is over 20 years old, the fan makes a noise that sounds like it's taxing down the runway for take off. I'm thinking this is the real reason he wants to gift me a new one, the noise can really be a bit annoying most times.

Below is a picture of the "new" microwave he picked out for me...

I have to admit, I am really lovin that Frigidaire Double Oven pictured with the microwave..!!!

I wonder if Santa would bring me that new Oven??!!!

I've been good, really I have:)!!

Sorry for the small picture of the microwave

Isn't she a beauty..!!!?

Both ovens are large enough to roast a 28 pound Turkey...

Whew, You could do some serious cooking and baking with this baby..!!

Someday....

I am excited to get the NEW Microwave.....!
My Son is one to really do his homework before deciding on a purchase,
with that said, I've no doubt my gift will be FANTASTIC and last me another 20 years..!!

2011-11-01T22:34:00.000-04:00

I was finally able to down load my pictures via my cell today....

The pictures are from this past weekend during our Halloween Snow Storm


Jalapeno Peppers for Poppers...

Clean peppers of all seeds and fill with one package of cream cheese at room temperature and one 16oz package of shredded cheese of your choice. I used a cheddar cheese and had some mix leftover, which I put into a plastic container and froze it for another day:)

Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese Mix

Peppers filled with cheese mixture

Baked at 450 degrees for 10+ minutes and then placed under the broiler to brown the tops

Flaky Biscuits

4 cups all-purpose flour

4 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

12 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes

First 5 ingredients

Add

1 1/2 cups cold buttermilk

Preheat oven to 450°F.

Soft ball after Cold Butter Milk is added

Press dough out with your fingers and use a 3 inch biscuit cutter

Mix together 1/2 cup heavy cream

4 tablespoons butter, melted, and brush over biscuits

Bake at 450 degrees for 12 minutes

The Biscuits were a hit with the homemade vegetable soup:)

The temperatures are back to seasonal temps in the high 50s....

No more of that crazy white stuff til December 24th and then it can leave for another year..!!

Thanks for stopping by

2011-10-30T21:41:00.001-04:00

What does one do when it snows a very substantial amount of snow in OCTOBER..!??

One cooks and then eats what one cooks

After returning home from the Salon, I started to prepare a large pot of homemade Vegetable Soup, homemade biscuits and a new recipe for cheese poppers I have been dying to try...The one deterrent I had to keep me cooking. was the fact of losing electric. To have power surges in my "neck of the woods" is nothing new during ANY storm. But I must admit, yesterday I did become a bit nervous when the surges were coming more frequently and loss of electricity was longer periods than usual. Fortunately, the loss of electricity did not occur for more than a few minutes during the entire storm. The only loss "I" had and still have, is not being able to send pictures in a txt message from my phone. And this is nothing unusual, either:(

So with that said, I had some really nice pics of the food fest I cooked yesterday, but will have to share them in another post, when the pictures via txt message cooperate..!

I will share with you some pictures my good friend, Linda took early this morning. The photos are from Speedwell Forge Lake, A Lake just outside the limits of my hometown, Lititz. This lake is 45 years old and I remember when the dam was built several years later. This lake is where I and my brothers fished in the evenings with our Dad. Its where I had my "first" hook in my finger, to which to this day I remember as though it happened yesterday. This Lake is where we went ice skating every winter. One memorable winter on the Lake was with my Aunt June and Cousin Audrey, they took me by the hands (me in the middle) and the wind was so forceful, it took us from one end of the Lake to the other without having to lift a leg. The hard part was "trying" to skate back up the Lake against the winds.....We were laughing so hard, it made the job so much harder...but we sure had fun! So many good memories as a child were shared and made on this Lake...

Sadly to say, the Dam was severely damaged from the Hurricane we had this past year, the cost to repair the Dam is over 6 Million and like every other state in this country, PA is broke..!!

So the decision was made to drain the Lake....:(

The pics shown are the Lake as it has been draining.

On the other side of this tree, was the area I had my "first" hook in finger experience...

It's all so sad to see this Lake being drained down to a small stream...

Hopefully this economy will soon start to rebound and areas such as this Lake that are in need of repairs and rebuilding can be done..

Have a FUN and Safe Halloween...

2011-10-27T23:59:00.001-04:00

I'm not sure where the month of October went..!

It's hard to believe Thanksgiving is four short weeks away and then the Holidays are in full swing...

It seems as though since the beginning of September we have hit the ground running and haven't stopped. My son has been so busy with work and school, I think he is very much ready for a break, although he is one to not like being in the still position for very long, to which I guess is a good thing...! I have some knitting I would like to do, I usually give a few items I knit as gifts for Christmas..Some friends are planning to meet at my home early December and bake some cookies, I really enjoy these cookie baking gatherings this time of year. Many different cookies can be baked and divided among everyone and it helps to cut down the work of one having to do all the work your self and not to mention it gives us girls a chance to catch up and have some girl time...!

I'm also ready for a vacation...it's been a while:) I'm asked frequently by my niece and nephew when I'm coming to Texas??! I miss them and wish they lived much closer...

As I say Good-Night

Happy Halloween and Have a Fun Filled Week-End with the Spooks..!

2011-10-22T14:59:00.001-04:00

My Chocolate Cake ready for the Spooks....

Underneath all the sugar on the top of the cake is a layer of Peanut Butter Icing...

You can not eat a rich chocolate cake without PB Icing!!

Going to a party tonight and I offered to bring a cake,

This is what I came up with to honor the theme of

Halloween..

The only thing I would do different,

make my "RIP' smaller....

This cake will surly keep a few people awake tonight after the party has come to close:)

Thanks for stopping by...

2011-10-20T23:33:00.001-04:00

An Apple A Day....

I peeled and cored so many apples the past two days I have a blister on my finger to prove my hard work of labor:)....I am not complaining in the least, I truly love making homemade "whatever" grabs my fancy...

This week was Apple Sauce and Apple Butter with an Apple Pie thrown into the mix....

Below is the beginning stage of CrockPot Apple Butter

This was a "first" for me. I have never attempted making Apple Butter in the past, but I sure do love the stuff! After doing a little research and comparing different techniques with other brave home based connoisseurs, I decided to give the Crock Pot technique a try...

I filled my large crock to the rim with the three Apples I had purchased, (Post before this one has them listed)...I then added the ingredients that would transform this plain dish into an amazing sauce that tastes so yummmmo on bread, muffins or crackers....

Added on top of the apples is:

2 Cups of Sugar

2 Tsp of Cinnamon

1/4 tsp of Cloves

1/4 tsp of Nutmeg

I Mixed the apples and spices together, applied the lid and turned on high for 5 hours..

After 5 hours of cooking down the apples, I mixed the apples with my electric mixer to a sauce like mixture, reapplied the lid, turned the temperature down on low and went to bed...

In the morning I gave the mixture a good stir. I cooked the sauce for approximately 24 hours giving it a good stir every two hours or so....

I prepared my jars for canning a head by cleaning them in the dishwasher. The sauce is very hot when you divide into the jars, I did not have to boil the jars for the lids to seal. After the jars were filled 1 inch from the jar opening, I turned them upside down for several hours. Your lid should be completely flat after several hours, if the lid is not flat and you can push the lid in, it has not properly sealed.

This is what the Apple Butter looked like the following morning after placed in jars...

I am so pleased with the texture outcome!!

And the taste is...AMAZING!

With the same batch of Apples, I also made Apple Sauce...

This is a very easy recipe of Apples and Cinnamon.

No sugar is needed when you use a good variety of sweet apples...

Prepare your apples the same as you would for the Apple Butter..

Place apples in a large cooking pot, add your cinnamon to your taste
and bring the apple mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently.
Your apples will not take long to cook down and become soft.

After the apples are cooked down, take a potato masher or any kitchen gadget you have to

mash the apples to a sauce like texture. After your apples are mashed to your liking,

immediately place the sauce into your jars and seal the lids, place jars upside down as

shown below. Apple Sauce can also be placed in freezer containers and froze when

Completely cooled. I have done the freezer containers in the past and it tastes just as fresh as

jarring them.

If I have time next week, I am seriously contemplating another trip for apples and completing

the process again...

I'm thinking a head for the holidays, the Apple Butter would make a nice gift basket with some Home Made Bread, some Crackers and a variety of muffins...!

Thanks for stopping by, have a safe and fun week-end my friends..!

2011-10-18T21:04:00.006-04:00

It's that time of year...

Warm Apple Pie

I used three varieties of Apples for this pie...

Jonagold apple

A very popular commercial variety, with a good flavor. Inherits many of the good qualities of its parents Jonathan and Golden Delicious.
Jonathan apple

A classic American variety, and widely regarded as one of the best flavored with a good sweet/sharp balance. A precocious and productive tree in US apple-growing regions.
Cortland apple

One of the more successful McIntosh offspring, with all the usual characteristics, including the sweet vinous flavor.

I filled the crust lined pie plate half way full with the three varieties of Apples,

I sprinkled on sugar, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg...

added the second half of the apples making a nice round top with the apples,

sprinkled the same spices and sugar on top, added small slices of butter and applied

the top pie crust.

I am a very big fan of Egg Washing the top pie crust....

As you can see, I generously washed the pie with a mixture of egg and water.

After the egg wash was applied, I generously sprinkled sugar on top and made three

openings for the steam to escape while baking

(these openings are also helpful when you need

to test the consistency of the Apples during baking)

Baked at 350 degrees for One Hour....

I am pleased with the results of this pie after baking, sometimes the apples shrink during baking

to the point there is a space between the top crust and apples...

This pie stayed true to its form...

Now time for the taste testing....!

2011-10-17T16:16:00.002-04:00

Lady In Red

This Red Lined Wool Jacket cost me a total of $16.00!

That's right, Folks.....ONLY $16.00 at Totsy.

If you have never heard of the site Totsy...hurry on over and sign up today so you too can take advantage of the fantastic discounts they offer..!!

I Can't wait to dress this jacket up with one of my Black Scarfs I knit, along with a favorite pair of jeans and black boots..! I have no worries the winter will not be cold enough to show off this new fantastic find...

Have a great week, friends! The leaves are finally changing colors here in PA and what a spectacular view of the mountains I have from my windows....The view is truly picturesque!!

2011-10-12T23:27:00.002-04:00

Growing Up Too Fast....

My beautiful niece is pictured here attending a formal dance along with her close friends...

Shayna is wearing the awesome Teal dress and note...No Shoes!! Looks as though Shayna has the same habit of kicking of her shoes as her Aunt:) I am a bit bias when I say to others how proud I am of this young lady..! I know how hard it is to keep your teenager grounded without holding them back. Shayna's parents do a great job maintaining a healthy balance with Shayna as she matures into her own person and finding her place. Her passion is soccer, she has played the sport since her young elementary years, to which she has excelled. For several years weekend trips have been made to Dallas, a two hour trip one way for her to play on a top notch Soccer League. This year as a Freshman, she made the JV team at her High School along with suiting up for Varsity Games. The Dallas League recently has been invited to play in a Tournament in Atlanta this December. The Tournament is played after the College Big Four Soccer play offs are finished. What an honor and great experience this group of young ladies will have playing among some of the best of the best ladies soccer teams...! Yes, I am very proud of Shayna and honored to be called her Aunt.....

2011-10-03T19:25:00.002-04:00

Forgotten Treasures....

Slowly the basement is being cleared of "stuff" we just do not use or need. This is all being done in preparation of downsizing. I recently came across a bag of Table Cloths, Aprons and Dish Towels that were my Mothers. Shown are the Dish Towels she had... I had forgotten I had those treasures in my basement, I was so thrilled when I came across them tucked neatly inside a large plastic bag. So, today while I was working in the kitchen prepping and baking my raw pumpkin for baking some pies, I steam washed all the treasured items so I can now use them in my day to day chores and activities in my kitchen.....When I make one of my mothers favorite dishes or remember her words of instructions on how to properly prepare a certain mix or dish, I can feel her presence with me, guiding me every step of the way. Now I can use some of the same items she used as she worked in her kitchen, her presence being even more prevalent...

Sunnier skies are predicted here later in the week, I sure do hope to see the sun shine for more than a few minutes. Have a great week, my friends!

2011-09-29T23:12:00.000-04:00

One Chocolate Martini, Please......

My Cousin, Patti and I have been trying to have a lunch date since my 50th birthday this past July. Our schedules were both very busy, to say the least which did not allow enough time for a lunch date. After putting our heads together several weeks ago we set a date, place and time...I was treated to an awesome lunch at the Tavern, to which has always been a family favorite of ours. I was also given another Hallmark Hand Painted Glass, this one being a Martini Glass....I am thinking I need a corner glass hutch to display my gifts of hand painted glasses, they are just too beautiful to not have them displayed when not in use:)

Have a Fun weekend and enjoy this beautiful Fall weather...!

2011-09-26T16:34:00.000-04:00

My First Place Hershey's Chocolate Cake Display was brought home and found a "home" above my kitchen Cabinets.

It's been a fun week of many folks congratulating me for winning first place. I am very quick to share, this was a total whim of an act I decided to par take in with no high expectations of even placing in the judging...
The Pennsylvania Dutch take their baking very serious in these parts of the world, and to have been in strong competition among some of the best bakers and winning is a sure compliment. I now will see how well my culinary skills in which I learned from my mother, will do against the rest of the Best Bakers in the State of Pennsylvania in early January. To be a part of this competition is such an honor, I am humbled and excited to meet the winners who won at their respected local level and will be competing as well in January. I will report back in January and update this post when I bake the next winning;/ Hershey's Chocolate Cake....!

Have a great week my friends, and enjoy this beautiful Fall weather. Rain is predicted in the forecast for the next several days with clearing in time for the week-end, so we won't complain too much!

2011-09-20T23:23:00.000-04:00

Here is my Chocolate Cake with Peanut Butter Icing, decorated with Hershey's Chocolate Icing

I made to enter in the "Hershey's Chocolate Cake" competition at the local level.

The requirements were very specific, ONLY Hershey's Cocoa Powder could be used in the cake recipe, and at least 1/4 cup measured or more had to be used in the cake batter. This original recipe was my mother's, one I changed over the years adding more of this and a little of that...I have been asked frequently for the recipe, to which I have declined to share. The only living person I have shared this recipe with is my Sister In Law in TX, and she swears her cake does not turn out as well as mine...(she really doesn't give herself enough credit!) So, I though it would be fun to enter my "First" cake competition with my signature recipe..I have made this recipe so often I think I could literally make it with my eyes closed. I ventured out on Monday afternoon with my Hershey's Chocolate Cake in tow with no high expectations in winning and entered my very first Cake competition. At arrival I waited in line well over 30 minutes for registration, obtained my personal registry number for the local chapter I was entering in, handed over my cake, listened to the few small details if you place or win and I was on my way....

The Judging was done that very same night as registration, with a bake sale the following morning (this morning) of all the entries. A First, Second and Third winner is chosen....

I had planned to attend the Fair later this afternoon and thought I would stop where the competition was held to see if I had placed.....when I entered the building it took me a few minutes to scan the room and figure out where the cakes were on display, they actually were dead center in the room, I wasn't able to see them at first due to some people standing at the tables and talking to which I over heard them saying "if the first place winner is unable to compete in Harrisburg at the state level, then the second place winner will compete"....when I realized they were talking about the Hershey's Chocolate Cake competition I walked over to the table and this is what I found...!

I WON FIRST PLACE...!!!!

I had no intentions of having my picture taken today when I put my sweats and comfy jacket on to roam the Fair and get some of that awesome Fair Food!!!

It turned out the the three people I over heard talking were the Second and Third place winners and a Judge.

We were then able to have our pictures taken together for the local news and papers...

I asked the Judge what they look for when judging, she shared with me that my cake was the third one they taste tested and when she tasted mine she knew I was going to be the winner:) The judge went on to share the texture of the cake was perfect with no air bubbles and the icing was dead on, also in texture which complemented the cake. I was in shock..! I think I still am....

It looks like I'm taking my Signature Chocolate Cake to the State Level...

WoooHooo!!

My Mother is telling everyone above she taught me everything I know when it comes to baking..!

Yes, Mother...You did!

2011-09-11T22:50:00.003-04:00

Kala and Casey's Wedding Reception

September 10, 2011

Wedding in the Bahamas

August 5, 2011

What a good time was had by ALL....!!

I can't remember the last wedding reception I attended where everyone had a BLAST!!

The dance floor was packed during the entire time, except for about maybe 30 minutes to eat..

The Bride and Groom along with the wedding party ate and immediately got this party started!

It was awesome to see all ages on that dance floor and let me just say,

the young ones had nothing over the elders in the room!

Below I am pictured with my cousin Patti, the Mother Of The Bride and the Bride, Kala..

Isn't she just beautiful...! Her smile says it ALL!

Kala and Casey cutting their cake..

Kala just being herself, she was so happy and enjoying every moment..

The yummo cupcakes served were a vanilla with chocolate ganache filling, topped with a light creamy frosting...A two thumbs up from me!

Kala with her Grandfather, my uncle. He had said his good-nights and good-byes,

only to come back and have one more dance with his princess...

Doesn't he look daper in that cool shirt!!? He wasn't able to attend the wedding in the Bahamas,

but he wasn't forgotten, a little bit of the 'Bahamas' was brought back to him:)

(sorry for the poor quality of the photo, wrong setting)

The energy was so high, as you can see..!

You could diffidently feel the Love between Kala and Casey,

and for them from their families and friends..!

Congratulations Kala and Casey

Forever After

2011-09-08T20:40:00.001-04:00

It has been quiet eventful the past 24 hours here in PA....the rains have brought to this area some of the worst flooding in 30 years. Last evening Sirens and Emergency vehicles could be heard in the distance, and then suddenly they were in plane sight approaching closer as you realize the destination point is within several feet of your home...

Neighbors in a panic as their new homes quickly fill with rushing water from the hours of terenchal rains...the night was very long and when the rain stopped for just a few minutes you said a little prayer of thanks. We made it through the worst part of the storms, without having the worst possible outcome of out of control water flooding our home. Having watched the news and speaking with family and friends through out the day, all were safe with no major damage done to the homes of those who are near and dear...

Yes, I am very thankful for being spared as well for those close by.

We will soon put this behind us and move forward...

This weekend will be one of celebrating, as my cousin's daughter and her new husband will be hosting an all adult reception in honor of their recent nuptials...

I spoke with my cousin today, as she informed me the reception has been moved to the Hall in which the caterer owns. The move from an outside reception at the home of the groom's parents to the Hall has become necessary due to the rain soaked lawn. I am most certain the reception will be one to remember regardless of the location. Celebrating starts at 5pm, with Hors'devours from 5pm to 6:15pm. Formal Dinner served promptly at 6:30pm. Music and Dancing to follow the Dinner.

I am very anxious and honored to be sharing this very important day with Kala and Casey...
Honored that Kala has always considered me and my family an important part of her life,
(her mother, Patti is my first cousin) And, I am anxious for an all adult evening surrounded by family, new family and friends, exquisite food and much anticipated celebrating, celebrating our booties off...

As I again reflex on this weeks events and those to come,
I am reminded how very blessed I am..!

Have A Fantastic Week-End, My Friends..
K

2011-09-03T22:53:00.003-04:00

**SIGH**

I am so sad and a bit depressed to see Summer coming to an end....as much as I like the season of Fall and the cooler weather, Summer is by far my favorite season and time of the year. As we say Good-Bye to the Chapter of Summer, the new chapter of Fall brings Fairs, Parades, Football and Apple Festivals, just to mention a few fun Fall activities....

The transition is in full force in the home, my son is back to school and busier than ever. He has decided on a double major in Computer Science and Business, and he's been talking about obtaining his Masters Degree. I am so thankful for his determination and self discipline working towards his future in areas he likes and will greatly benefit him, all the while working a full time job he loves and excels in. I'm preparing for my Fall Specials with my Salon Business and considering some new investments for the long term. It's always fun to brain storm and see what has worked in the past and what may be worth trying.

As I was driving to a friends home today, I passed many road side stands selling pumpkins, that is a sure sign Fall is around the corner and it gives me an excuse to do some baking:) I'm hoping to bake some pies and cookies, I must confess I still have some baked goodies in my deep freezer from summer baking.

It will soon be time to close up the Pool for the season, also.....and then after that task, I know the next chapter is Winter. UGH..MY MIND CAN NOT PROCESS THAT RIGHT NOW!!

Have a great holiday week-end and enjoy the warmer days while they last...!!!

2011-08-31T21:33:00.003-04:00

I'm doing something I have NEVER done before...

I'm entering a baking contest!

I am entering "My" Chocolate Cake made with

Hershey's Cocoa....

The official rules are,

You must make a cake by scratch with Hershey's Cocoa..

The Icing can be with or without Hershey's Cocoa,

I will be making my Peanut Butter Icing to top

off "my" Hershey's Chocolate Cake...

This contest will be a "stepping out" for me,

I have not shared this recipe with anyone except with my

sister in law in Texas...

And she swears her cake does not taste as good as mine:/

I spoke with the chairman of the contest for all the official rules,

of course I want to follow the rules to the "T" so

there is no mix up and get disqualified...

That's all I am going to share for now,

I will share how I place after the contest...

No date will be disclosed when the contest is,

I dont want to jinx it...:)

but I promise to report back how well I do and if I place...

Keep your fingers crossed....

2011-08-28T23:43:00.000-04:00

So much has been circulating today about Hurricane Irene...

I am happy to report no one in my immediate family or great group

of friends, experienced any major damage or flooding.

Power outage was reported by almost everyone,

but was restored within a relatively short period of time...

My Aunt and Uncle who have retired to Myrtle Beach,

evacuated to Monroe, NC where their two son's now live

with their families, both are teachers within the Monroe School District..

One being a Elementary Teacher and the other has his

Masters in Special Education...

I think it's so awesome how both my cousins after

college relocated to NC to teach,

the very same state their parents had long planned to retire to...

Even though it was necessary for my Aunt and Uncle

to make the trip to Monroe due to the Hurricane,

they were very excited to make the trip because,

A new addition to their family arrived a few weeks ago,

A new Grandson..

And

We just found out another Baby Boy

will be blessing this family soon...

So, Grandma and Grandpa have much to celebrate and spoil like only Grand-parents can!!

And believe me, they do not disappoint in the "spoiling" department..!

I know I am very much looking forward to seeing the pics of the new babies

and watching them grow within this very nurturing, loving and proud family..!!

Have a great week, my friends...

Much Love,

Her Name Is Irene....

2011-08-26T16:13:00.001-04:00

This picture means only one of two...

A major snow storm or a hurricane!

On this particular day,

A major hurricane is coming towards the East Coast,

and her name is Irene..

What a way to end the summer...!

If you live along the East Coast,

Stock up, Hunker down and Stay safe..!!

2011-08-17T01:25:00.001-04:00

Summer time fun....

Below are a few pictures from the Journey Concert in Hershey, PA

My son took these with his Droid before it became too dark...

Before the show started

The opening band was NightRanger...

they were very good!

Second band was Foreigner....

O my gosh, the original guys in this band are so Old looking..

WOW

No pictures from my All time favorite Band,

Journey..

Journey was good this year, but not as good as I have seen in years past.

Certainly was Good Times, tho!

And the weather was perfect for an outside concert..!

We sat near a gal I had worked indirectly with several years ago,

when we both worked as floor nurses

at the local hospital in our area.

It was fun chatting with her and catching up when we could

between the bands...

Have a good Wednesday and rest of the week..

2011-08-15T19:20:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's starting to feel like Fall:(

As much as I do love the Fall Season,

I totally dislike the fact Winter is approaching...

I feel like I haven't gotten all my "summer" in

and here it is coming to an end.

We have a few weeks of out door events

planned well into the Fall,

to which I will hold on tightly to savor the season...

My afternoon to day was spent with my long time

good friend, Vickie....

Vic has vacation this week and we set up

a lunch date several weeks ago and

I got a chance to see her New home she recently

moved into, which is absolutely Gorgeous..

Vic's home is one of the very popular

"all on one floor" town home with a 2 car garage...

I wish I would have gotten some pics,

the style and spacious room is prefect for

our middle age going into retirement.

I am so ready to down size..!!

After lunch I received a very sweet unexpected gift...

My son has surprised me with Tickets to see Journey.

Journey has been my all time favorite Band/Group,

and for the past 6 years or so,

they have been a part of the Summer Venue at

Hershey Park Stadium..

I've seen Journey 3 times in Hershey,

Tomorrow will be Number 4:))

On the Foodie front..

I've been collecting several new recipes

I am anxious to make...

I'll keep you posted with my reviews

and post the recipe after the verdicts are in...

Have a fun week getting those last summer events scheduled....

Stay safe and thanks for stopping by...

2011-08-09T23:22:00.001-04:00

Awwww...

Yes, these are my feet!

Aren't they pretty:)

I am learning to do more of this and enjoying it..!

OK, to a certain point I'm enjoying this:)

Life has a way of making you slow down a bit,

and I have certainly been witness to that lately.

My mission per say lately has been encouraging

women my age and younger the importance of having

yearly physicals with pertinent blood work...

I am amazed at how many middle aged women/mothers

and men/fathers

do not take the time to take care of themselves.

My question to them is....

Who will take care of your family/children

should something happen to you that could have been prevented?

In today's society we owe it to ourselves

and our family to be responsible and have those

yearly check ups....

Preventive medicine can find a health issue and/or

concern long before it becomes a long term condition or illness...

And pampering yourself is not a bad thing, either:)

Hope your enjoying these last few weeks of summer..

I can not believe we are in August already!!!

Be safe my friends and make each day a good one...

2011-08-07T22:11:00.004-04:00

Beautiful Bride

Kala...waiting to marry her best friend

My cousin Patti sent me this pic today of her daughter, Kala.

Kala and her then future husband married in the Bahama's on Friday.

Kala's mother and her brother Aaron walked her down

the "beach aisle" with a few of their close friends in attendance..

This September will be a large reception for the very happy and newly married couple.

I will be sure to share more pictures after the reception,

but I thought I would share this picture for now,
Kala is so beautiful...which made me smile and shed a tear...

The day Kala's mother was married I was honored to be a part

of the wedding party...

The day I married,

Kala was just a baby and I still remember her sitting so quietly during

the ceremony followed by all the fun and loud activities..

Looking at Kala in this picture my thoughts are with my Aunt,

Kala's Grand-Mother, who would be so proud of this beautiful

young woman...

Have a great week, my friends!

2011-07-31T00:09:00.000-04:00

A few more pictures celebrating....

I wasn't permitted to sneak a peak at the cake....

The dreaded singing of "Happy Birthday", I always found it to be embarrassing...

I missed one:(

This cake was absolutely beautiful...and tasted as fabulous as it looks...!

Me and Kathy(BFF)

I was queen for the moment:)

Good Times...hand painted glass from Kathy

Reading material from my good friend and cousin, Pam...

Lavender Pillow..I have always wanted a lavender pillow and now I have one..!

Silicone cupcake baker from Pampered Chef...

I can't wait to try this out:))

Another great day with friends and family which ended with more good times..!!

The Big 5-0......

2011-07-22T14:05:00.001-04:00

This Birthday message was one of many sent to me via my cell phone, this particular one was from a long time friend:)

I survived...!!


This Bday card is from my BFF, one of many cards given to me.

My BFF and I have the best of times when we get together,

she has a knack for finding cards that reflex the girly-girly in us!

My son treated me to an All-You-Can-Eat

Seafood Feast at TJ Rockwell,

The Seafood Feast is served only on the deck

and with the extreme temperatures in most of the country,

it was a bit "warm" even in the shade and nice breeze...

But, the meal was so good we hardly noticed the high temperatures,

and we really enjoyed our time together.

Hubs and I before we dug into our Feast..

My first plate of shrimp and clams..

You have your choice of one, combo of two or all three of

Shrimp, Clams and Hard Shell Crabs..

And Yes, ALL YOU CAN EAT..!!

Some Birdie mentioned to our server it was my birthday...

This little Ice Cream Dessert is actually on the menu for .69,

and was given complimentary to me...

Notice the Sparkler sticking out of the side,

it fizzled out very quickly and the Ice Cream under

the massive mound of whipped cream was almost completely

melted by the time I willingly devoured the whipped topping..!

O, and there was Chocolate Sauce under there, too!!!

The size and amount of this dessert was perfect after feasting

on all the seafood...

Sorry for the quality of this picture (phone pic)

After dinner we headed to a favorite hangout for more

celebrating, this is Carmen who is a long time Friend of mine...

I was encouraged to have a "shot" for my big 5-0,

to know me..I am NOT the "shot" drinking kinda gal,

but I took a chance on one that sounded tasty..

I would tell you the name, but it really is not very

"Lady Like" so we'll just say it was very tasty and leave it at that:)

Whew.....Yes, I survived!

And it was fun!!

I have to add this photo..
Just received this beautiful bouquet from a dear friend, Vickie..
Love you, Girl..!!

Thanks for sharing my celebrating with me...!

Have a fun and safe weekend, my friends..

2011-07-20T09:51:00.000-04:00

You Know It's Hot When the Ice Cream Truck Melts....!!!

Conquering the Sweet Tooth

2011-07-19T15:19:00.000-04:00

Need a sweet and quick pick-me-up...?

Here is a very quick and simple recipe to conquer that sweet craving.

One Minute Peanut Butter Cake

1 egg, beaten

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

...1 heaping tablespoon flour

2 tablespoons peanut butter

1 tablespoon chocolate chips

1 teaspoon milk

1 tablespoon powdered sugar (give or take)

In a small bowl, whisk together egg, chocolate chips, brown sugar,

baking powder, peanut butter and flour.

Pour batter into a greased ramekin. Microwave for 30 seconds.

(it dries out fast, so don't overcook) .

While the cake is microwaving, stir together milk and powdered sugar, adding more powdered sugar if necessary to thicken frosting.

Remove cake from ramekin (or don’t), pour frosting over top.

**I used a small microwave safe dish...

Enjoy:)

50 and Accomplished....

2011-07-17T10:39:00.002-04:00

Where is this summer going..!

I can't wrap my brain around the fact

that we're already into the middle of July

and with that comes my Birthday...

This year is the "BIG" one..whew

I have been skipping around the fact

I'll be 50 this year...

But I can honestly say,

I'm now getting a bit excited to say...

Why, yes....I AM 50!!

50 And Accomplished..!

I will be the first to admit,

my life the past 50 years have not for the most,

been "bad" years..

Yes, I have had many disappoints,

and unexpected tragic events...

But with the bad also brought the Good!

To which with all of the above,

I have learned a great deal...

Learned what I wanted and learned what I did NOT want..!!

Sometimes in life you must figure out the "Not"

before you know the "Want"..

And I have been Blessed,

Blessed with a life of not having a "need"

The need to have it all and not be happy

with what I have...

My first 50 years have been rich,

In family, friends, career and experiences.

I am looking forward to the next chapter,

turning the page and taking on the next 50!

On my actual birthday a small family dinner at

a restaurant I have been wanting to visit,

followed by a small gathering of friends and family

a week later...

I was planning to have the traditional party,

with all the bells and whistles..

But after having a busy summer since the

induction of this awesome time of year,

I have opted to keep it simple and enjoy this time

in a more private and quaint way...

There will still be enough partying and celebrating

to indicate it's a new chapter...!

I have no doubt those who I've chosen

to surround myself with to help celebrate,

will not disappoint...!

Yes, 50 and Accomplished..!!

Have a great week and thanks for stopping by, my friends!

2011-07-12T10:52:00.003-04:00

Myers Family Reunion

Lititz Springs Park

2011

What a good time was had by all,

inspite of the hot and very humid temperatures...

No one left hungry and most if not all

of the little ones left being very very tired,

and a few "big" ones!

Below are a few pictures capturing some of

the days activities....

Nick taking his best swing at the Pinata

Nick trying to hand off the bat to his little cousin, Kara.

The fast scramble to pick up the most candy you can...

The Pinata waiting patiently high up in the tree..

The Matriarch Of The Family...My Mother's Oldest Sister, Aunt Romaine

A little Bingo Playing

Old Photos....

I found this awesome idea a few months ago on a blog (of course)

You Hang rope in several rows and attach photos with snap clothes pins to

display your photos. This eliminates everyone from touching

and handling your treasured photos...

It was a BIG hit..!

My Mother's Youngest Brother and his wife


Ha...I was caught doing what I like best...Eating

Notice the coolers and crock pots behind me..

NO one goes home hungry from this reunion!

On six large picnic tables,

we have all the favorite picnic foods with a little bit

of good old fashion PA Dutch foods and desserts..


Miss Aubree, My niece, Ashley's little cuttie...

And so this brings us to the end of another great reunion

of the Summer!

I can't believe its here and gone already:(

Thanks for stopping by, my friends..

2011-07-10T22:27:00.000-04:00

Come out, come out where ever you are...

I misplaced my small digital camera,

you have to understand...

I NEVER lose anything..!

I have searched everywhere,

The camera was last seen Sunday a week ago at a party/cookout.

I remember leaving with my cell and camera in one hand...

I have my cell,

No camera:(

I only discovered it missing yesterday,

my weekend was very busy with activities I wanted

to diffidently take pics of...

And I dislike having to depended on others.

Today was my family reunion with many having

cameras trying to capture those perfect memories..

I will post and share more after I receive some

photos promised to come my way:))

Have a great week and enjoy this awesome summer, my friends..

2011-07-05T12:53:00.000-04:00

Wow...what a fantastic holiday weekend..!

A friend captured this beautiful sunset on Monday Evening after a relaxing day by the pool at my home...

The festivities started Friday in my hometown of, Lititz.

The annual July 4th parade kicked off a weekend long bash of Fun...

*Meeting up with friends and family, surprise birthday party,

picnics, swimming, great conversations while relaxing and enjoying all the

savory summer time food and drinks...

And Lots Of Laughs!

And of course...

Three days of awesome fireworks,

provided by neighbors and local communities..

Have I mentioned before...?

I LOVE SUMMER!

This week is going to be just as busy...

finalizing what I need for this coming weekend of,

Community Days where my Salon business is located,

A baby shower for the daughter of a long time friend,

And then closing the weekend on Sunday with my family reunion

to which I organize, at the park in my hometown...

My list is prepared of the items I am still in need of

to make this weekend another Fun time for all with

Friends and Family...

I'm also looking forward to catching up with my son

after his long weekend spent with friends in Pittsburgh..

He snuck into the house sometime late last night,

he was either extremely quiet or I was extremely exhausted...

I'm thinking a little bit of both!

He was up and out of the house to work this morning long before

my eyelids cracked open...

The advantages of being young:)

Hoping your holiday weekend was one of many good memories, my friends!

Enjoy your week of summer time fun and stay safe..!

Thanks for stopping by..

Fire Cracker State Of Mind.....

2011-06-30T22:46:00.000-04:00

As I sit and compose my thoughts into words, my mind is racing from the days passed and all that has occurred, good and not so good...My mind is wanting to just skip into the Holiday weekend of multiple gatherings such as the annual parade and entertainment in the beautiful park of my home town of Lititz, to a surprise birthday party on saturday afternoon followed by some friends and family spending the evening at my home poolside....

Sunday will be late church services and then followed by an afternoon of more entertainment and fireworks at another favorite park of mine...Monday will be our annual breakfast to our favorite breakfast buffet, then again followed by some fun and sun by the pool....

My son left late this afternoon to spend a few well deserved days in Pittsburgh with his best buds...

He thought with his summer break from college he would get some down time, however his job has been keeping him very busy with a high demand, to which he is not complaining..! He is very good at what he does to which his father and I are very thankful for...!

The "one" not so good happenings started early this morning when my bestie contacted me with some sad news...her husband is the Chief Of Police in two jurisdictions, last evening his one part- time police officer was killed in the line of duty.....the young officer was an Army Veteran who served two tours of duty. His young wife and him are pregnant with their first child. Needless to say, this news has been very devastating to all of those who knew him personally and the community. Just a reminder of how precious life is and quickly it can all change.

On a very much happier note, my dear sweet cousin's (who I have always felt to be more of a sister than a cousin), husband has been appointed the new Editor of the Lancaster News Papers. This news came in late this afternoon, one day after the long time Editor announced his retirement. I am so happy for Peter and of course his wife, my cousin, Audrey. Peter is so deserving of this position, could have not gone to a better person...!!! I will be seeing Peter and Audrey tomorrow evening and I can't wait to personally congratulate him..!

Have a Fun and Safe Holiday Weekend, My Friends!

2011-06-26T23:22:00.003-04:00

I'm totally hooked on,

The Housewives Of New Jersey

and

Housewives Of New York....

I started watching a HO New Jersey marathon

while I was down and recuperating..

Now I plan my Sunday and Thursday evenings around the shows...

How pathetic is that!?
I am a NO drama person,
but for some reason I enjoy these two shows,
I find the New Jersey series more to my personal likes
than New York, but have come to enjoy them both...
It must be an East Coast thing..!!

It's hard to believe the weekend is done,
and the longest day of the year has also come and gone:(
I must say...
This weekend was very nice and relaxing with

open concerts in parks both Saturday and Sunday..

As a child, my parents were ones who also

enjoyed time spent with the family at parks...

We even went to parks when snow flurries were

dancing around us as we ate the steaming hot soup

my mother had made for the outing..
I guess my love for parks comes from my childhood..

Saturday after our concert in the park,

we decided to drive to another favorite place

of mine in the summer,

The Jigger Shop in Mt Gretna...

The Jigger Shop has some of the best ice cream creations....ever!!

Sunday evening was spent with some very long time

and dear friends of ours at another favorite park

listening to a free concert and catching up...

This coming week is going to be busy

gearing up and preparing for the holiday weekend

of parties and festivities,
so having a relaxing no fuss weekend was very welcomed..

Yes, Summer is in full swing,

and I love it!!

Have a fun and safe week, my friends!

2011-06-24T21:17:00.001-04:00

This is why I love my Bestest Friend, Kathy....

After we spent the afternoon at the Salon,

then an early dinner and shopping,

a stop at Starbucks on the way home

and then parting ways back at the Salon...

I came home to find this card waiting for me,

sent via snail mail by my Bestest...

Just because:)

I LOVE THIS CLASS ACT, LADY!!

2011-06-19T21:55:00.006-04:00

As the weekend and Father's Day slowly

comes to a close,

I'm so thankful for the chance to

have spent some time

with my Uncle who is in Ill Health...

His long term memory is gone,

with some short term memory loss as well...

His words spoken frequently

were those of his chronic pain he suffers with.

It becomes more and more difficult to

see the inevitable changes occur

to a man who once was so strong

and bigger than life when he entered a room..

"The Gentle Giant"

I left his home having that sad

feeling of wanting to do more,

but knowing nothing more can be done.

Saturday evening some friends stopped by,

we enjoyed a nice visit on the deck

while eating the Strawberry Cheese Cake

they brought along to share..!

The Cheese Cake was made at

Breads N Cheese Of Hershey

I have had many goodies over the years
made from this Cafe',

if your ever in the Hershey area stop by

Breads N Cheese for some awesome treats,

you wont be disappointed...!

Today, Father's Day...

my son gave his dad a new toy,

A powerful weed whacker...

The guy now has three!

It always amuses me how excited

a man can get when he receives

a new power toy..!
The evening closed with a nice
meal prepared by our son
with great conversation!

Have a fun and safe week, my friends!

2011-06-15T10:57:00.005-04:00

Ethiopia....

is a landlocked country located in the Horn of Africa,

and officially known as the
Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Ethiopia is where my church sponsored child,

Yohanes lives..

I have been corresponding with Yohanes for

five years...

Each letter I receive totally gives me a new

perspective on how fortunate we are to

live in a country of really no needs or wants

of the simplest things...

Even though the US has been hit

with a very bad economy...

We still have everything we need

to make life comfortable and bearable...

Unlike so many 3rd world countries.

When I read a letter from Yohanes

describing how excited and thankful

he is to have a new pair of shoes

purchased with the money sent through

our ministry...

It makes me take a step back

and reflect just how much more we have than less...

Sometimes in life we forget those who do not have

what we all take for granted each and every day....

I often think how "my" life would be different

had I been born into a very poor country..

I know I would survive, hence

it would be all I knew....

However, knowing the difference between

how my life of no needs and wants

compared to those who do...

Makes one appreciate all God has provided..!!

Many Blessings to you, my friend!
K

2011-06-12T23:23:00.001-04:00

A fun and busy weekend...

Friday was a day of errands,

Lunch in the park,

Late Afternoon Movie to see my Johnny

in the latest Pirates movie

and then meeting up with friends

and relaxing while catching up
at a local eatery on their

patio of cozy atmosphere....

Saturday was a very busy day at the salon,

followed by an invite to a party.

I had all intentions of attending the party,

however about the time I was preparing to leave

the clouds opened up and gave a severe

summer storm with tornado warnings...

I was traveling in the same direction as the storm,

so I decided to stay home

where I felt safe and comfort....

Sunday was a day of rest...! Period

Another busy week a head

of Salon business, friends and myself pool side

and the usual everyday stuff

to keep this home moving forward.

Tuesday I must attend a memorial service

for my father's cousin,

to whom our families were always

very close...

Have a great week and enjoy the season of summer..!

2011-06-04T21:13:00.000-04:00

I can't begin to express how happy I am

summer is in full swing..!

Happy Happy Happy

This time of year for me is the best time of year,

both mentally and physically..!

This summer has started off with several invites

to showers and celebrations...

I have always been honored to be

invited to a shower or event

to celebrate a new beginning...

However, I must say this year has been

an over abundance in all areas of celebrations.....

I'm not complaining by any means,

I decide and purchase

the gift of choice

and think I'm ready to

enjoy the up coming event,

When I receive another invite in the mail....

Yes, I feel honored and blessed to have such

wonderful and cherished friends and family...!

My calendar is filling up fast,

with invites and celebrations from now

into September....

Oh, as much as I am looking forward to

all the activties...

September seems a bit far off

and I for one do not want to rush away the summer:))

Have a great week and enjoy...!

2011-05-30T10:35:00.000-04:00

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY..!!

Click on Link to see Women who helped

Change History..

Video

Surprise..!

2011-05-29T14:05:00.003-04:00

Surprise 75th Birthday

My Best Friend's Mother hit a Milestone this year,

She turned 75..

Kathy, (Best Friend) had been planning

a surprise party for her mother for the past several months...

When Kath and I talked about the plans,

I asked at one point if I could make the cake...

Kath was more than appreciative of my offer.

Kathy's only request was a butterfly theme

with both Vanilla and Chocolate flavors...

With those simple requests,

I knew immediately what was to be created...

The cupcakes were a big hit,

especially with the kids..

For me the compliment was having

None left...even the extras I made for "just in case::)...

Below are a few pictures of the Special Lady

whom we celebrated..!

SURPRISE..!!

Blowing out her "75"

This is Kaylana.....She took a bite and actually said

"MMMMMMMMMMMMM"

Kaylana is the daughter to Kathy's Nephew.

She is such a Sweet Little Lady

who will be turning two in July...

The party was a huge success and everyone had
a great time celebrating...

Happy Hoilday...Thank A Veteran

2011-05-27T12:43:00.000-04:00

What are you plans for this first weekend of Summer?

I have a family funeral this afternoon...

I know, not a good way to start.

This service is truly a celebration of Life,

A very gentle man who loved life and his family...

Tomorrow will be another celebration of life,

A surprise 75th birthday party for a very Special Lady...

Sunday and Monday will be a day of

Parades and Memorial Day services

AND

relaxation with family and friends,

Pool Side..!!

I'm hoping to get an ice cream cone, too!

Have to bring in the summer on a high note:)

To all my friends,

Have a fun and safe Holiday Weekend..!

Remember to Honor Those Veterans in your area

and those who continue to serve...

No Farm Needed

2011-05-24T16:01:00.003-04:00

Farmhouse Apple Pie

I found this awesome recipe for a custard apple pie

that is tops on my list of all things Good..!!!

I am a huge addict of anything custard..

and if it comes in the form of a Pie,

You'll hear no complaints from me..!

The original recipe states it's a "Cake"

I'm calling it a PIE..

You be the judge...:)

Farmhouse Apple Cake

8 tablespoons unsalted butter – 1 tablespoon for greasing pan, plus 7 more
1/2 cup whole milk
5 Golden Delicious apples
2 large eggs
1-1/4 cups sugar
1/2 cup flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking powder

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Butter a 9 or 10-inch springform pan. You can also wrap the bottom of the pan with tin foil so it doesn’t leak.

Measure the milk into a microwavable measuring cup. Cut 7 tablespoons of butter into pieces and add to the milk. Microwave for a minute or two, until the butter is just melted. Set aside to cool.

Thinly Slice 5-6 Apples of your choice. If the apples are large, use less amount..

Beat the eggs and sugar in a large bowl with a wire wisk until the sugar is dissolved. This take about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour, then add the milk-butter mixture and the vanilla. Blend thoroughly. Quickly stir in the baking powder.

Fold in the sliced apples and pour the mixture into the pan.

Place the pan directly on the floor of the gas oven for 10 minutes. Transfer the pan to the center rack and bake until cake is well browned on top and knife inserted into the center comes out clean, for about an hour longer.

If you have an electric oven, place the pan on the lowest rack for the entire cooking time.

Place the cake on a cooling rack. When cool enough to handle, run a thin knife around the cake and remove the spring-form ring. Serve warm topped with some Ice Cream or Whipped Cream...OR Both!!!

2011-05-23T14:30:00.001-04:00

Butterfly Fields....

Here is a Picture of what I've been working on...

*White Chocolate Butterflies and Dragonflies*

I used regular liquid food color to tint the white chocolate

to the color I wanted for my soft and suddle fluttery friends...

These will be topping off Cupcakes I am

making for a Surprise 75th Birthday Party this Saturday

for a very special Lady...

She loves butterflies...

And so do I..:)

Hoping the daily thunderstorms and rain

decide to take a break on Saturday.

Have a fun and safe week....

2011-05-15T20:00:00.000-04:00

Spring Brings New Babies, Graduation and Weddings....

Meet Miss Abigail....

She is the newest, sweetest little bundle of joy to our family.

Her Mother and My son are 6 weeks a part in age,

and the two were best of buddies..

And now my son needs to catch up...:)

Miss Abigail with her parents...

The dress Abigail is wearing,

was her Mother's dress she wore

at that very same age...

I immediately recognized it on Abigail,

It's the perfect outfit,

because Abigail is the exact image

of her Mother....

A fun day it was with Miss Abigail...

2011-05-09T11:47:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was one of the Nicest Mother's Day...!!

My Son totally out did himself this year..

I was treated to my morning coffee from my favorite

coffee shop before the eye lids had a chance to open wide..

I was later in the day *spoiled with a

Grilled T-Bone Steak Dinner,

(purchased from my favorite butcher and custom cut)

These babies were over an inch in thickness..

and grilled to perfection of Medium Well,

topping the steak with fresh saute' mushrooms, onions

and fresh garlic..

Along with the steak....

another favorite of mine,

Crab stuffed baked potatoes....

My son found my recipe and thought he would give it try:)

He did not miss a beat with preparation,

the meal was spectacular!!

Here's to hoping all you "Mother's" had a special day, too!

Have a great week and enjoy this beautiful sunshine...finally:)