It's a rainy, dreary Tuesday

So,  let's just say I haven't had the easiest or best last few days,  but I have been doing what I do best..  faking it..  Life is hard,  and sometimes we have to make very difficult decisions..   I just hope that I made the right one..   I hope that I didn't give up to soon..
I know if I put my focus where it should be I will get the answer I need..  I am going to make a few changes in my life..  start reading my Bible more,  praying more and trusting God more..   Relationships are hard and after you have been hurt it makes it harder to open yourself up..  I tried,  but I feel that I failed miserably..   I did everything wrong, backwards,  and every time I say,  I am going to do this one right..  but I don't;  basically I never feel that I am good enough..  so I know that I have more work to do on me..  I know deep down that I am a good person,  that I deserve to be loved and treated with the utmost respect..   but from many many years of hearing degrading things about myself I go back to that place and become that beaten, broken down person again..  all it takes is one negative remark,  one bad name and I am back in that black hole,  suffocating and trying to pull myself out..  It isn't as bad as it used to be,  but it still happens,  and I honestly don't know how to stop it from happening..  from pulling away and pushing away..  but I keep trying,  because that is what we do as humans.. we keep trying,  we don't give up and I will never give up..  This to shall pass and I will be a better person because of it.. doesn't mean I am not hurting right now,  or that I am not sad..   because I am both of those,  and I am fighting picking up my phone and either calling or sending a text.. 
But I digress..
So work has been interesting the past 5 days..  Super busy and crazy..   haven't really had to deal with a lot of crazy people,  but that is ok..  working tomorrow and Thursday night..  then I get a 3 day weekend..  the girls are disappointed,  but we are having a huge visit from some big big whigs and my reputation and a co workers reputation are on the line..  so I go into work tomorrow and pretend to be wonder woman and supergirl wrapped into one and get both my departments whipped into shape and researched and cleaned..  ahhh..  gotta clean off fingernail polish again..  I love people who do that..  not really,  they tick me off..  :)
So after a very long day today I came home and made Baked Potato Soup,  it looks good..  and well,  when you live in a home where no one hardly eats meat,  the bacon goes bad before you realize it..  so I guess when I buy it next I will bake it off and then freeze it or freeze it in smaller portions..  ahhhh..    so for those of you who want it.. here is the recipe for Baked Potato Soup..

Baked Potato Soup

4 to 5 medium baked potatoes, cooked, cooled and cubed
2 Tbsp butter
6 Tbsp olive oil
8 Tbsp flour
8 c milk,  I use skim and vege broth
8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
salt and pepper to taste
bacon..cooked and chopped..  I never put an amount because it is how much you want..
sour cream
chives

Melt the butter in the olive oil,  then add the flour and whisk to combine, salt and pepper,  about a tsp of each.  let cook for about 2 minutes over medium heat.  don't let it burn..  Then add the milk mixture slowly,  whisking quickly as you go..  when it is mixed well bring it to a soft boil and then add the cheese and potatoes..  taste and add more salt and pepper if needed..  let cook for about 15 to 20 minutes,  then add the bacon..  can use sour cream, chives and extra cheddar cheese as garnish..

I am also making a salad with romaine hearts,  spinach,  honeycrisp apple cubed,  walnuts and dried cranberries..   yummmmmm  I like my salad with poppy seed dressing..  mmmmm

Also when I got home Saundra heated up some Apple Cider,  added a little cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg so I am enjoying that!!!  I love Apple Cider on a cold rainy day!!!

Take care all and have a fabulous rest of your day!!!  Stay warm and dry!!!

Pecan Bars

Pecan Bars

 

2 sticks butter, softenend

1/2 c powdered sugar

2 c all purpose flour

 

Mix together and press into the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan..  use plastic wrap to press it down so the dough doesn't stick to your fingers.  Bake in a 350 degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes until light brown. 

 

2 large eggs

1 1/2 c light brown sugar,  packed

1 tbsp dark corn syrup

2 tbsp flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

2 cups chopped pecans

 

Beat the eggs and add the brown sugar and corn syrup.. mix well then add the flour and baking powder.  Mix well,  then add the pecans and pour over the baked crust.  Bake for 20 minutes.   Let cool completely and cut into squares.. 

It's Black Friday!!!

Did you go shopping??  I didn't,  I hate to shop,  unless it is for food..  I love shopping for food..    Though I have enjoyed watching the Target Black Friday commercials,  they crack me up.. 
Did you cook for Thanksgiving or go to a friend or relatives house??  I have been cooking for Thanksgiving by myself for over 20 years..  Doesn't feel that long,  but it has been..  So if you cooked,  what are you going to do with your leftovers??  Do you try to reinvent them,  or do you just let everyone eat them the way they are??  My mom always just left them for us to eat them how they were..  I don't remember ever getting tired of eating them..  I loved Thanksgiving leftovers,  probably because we didn't have much of a variety of foods growing up..  We had beans, potatoes and cornbread..  the type of bean would vary,  the potatoes would be cooked differently a couple nights a week and then on Sunday we would have some type of meat,  roast beef, chicken, fish...   so it wasn't such a big deal like now to reinvent turkey day leftovers..    I myself enjoy them like they are..  love making a turkey sandwich with stuffing and cranberry sauce on it..  
All I know is someone needs to come over and eat these damn pies..   
Speaking of pies,  I just remembered I am supposed to be making pecan bars to take to work tonight..    so off I go,  baking again..  hehe..  will post the recipe in a bit.. 
Everyone have a good morning!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with lots of good food, great company, laughter and making of many wonderful memories with family and friends..  I had a wonderful day today..  Love seeing my sweet granddaughter Samantha Riley.. she is the light of my life..  I took LOTS of pics today of the food and the family.. 

I love making these dinner rolls..  :)

The table full of food

Yummy food

Gravy, Turkey and Stuffing

Green Bean Casserole

Broccoli Rice Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole

Stuffing

Happy Turkey Day Eve!!!!

Hello everyone..  I hope everyone is well..  I had a fabulous day today,  work was good..  went by pretty fast..  then came home and made 3 pies,  pumpkin, sweet potato and apple..  they are all cooling on the counter and the girls and I are watching Home For The Holidays!!   such a good movie..  I love this movie.. 

Sweet Potato Pie

2 roasted sweet potatos
1/2 c sugar
2 eggs
2 Tbsp butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla
1 can evaporated milk
1 unbaked pie crust,  deep dish

Place roasted potatoes in mixing bowl,  mash with a potato masher or in a mixer,  add the sugar and mix well.  Add eggs 1 at a time,  then the vanilla.  Pour the melted butter in slowly and then add the can of evaporated milk.  Mix well and pour into crust.  Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes,  then lower heat to 350 degrees and cook another 30 to 45 minutes,  checking after 30. 

To prevent the crust from shrinking in the oven..  after you roll it out and put it in the pie place,  place the plate in the freezer or refrigerator for 15 minutes or so..  a chilled crust shrinks less than a room temp one.   

Happy Tuesday!!!

Happy Tuesday everyone!!!  I hope you are all well and excited about Thanksgiving..  I made my cranberry sauce last night..  I will post pictures,  and this evening I put the green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole and the broccoli rice casserole together,  they are all in the fridge getting happy..   I made a note of what I used for the Broccoli Rice Casserole,  so you are getting the recipe..

Broccoli Rice Casserole

1c white rice
2c water
2 16 oz pkgs frozen broccoli or 2 fresh heads of broccoli chopped
2 cans broccoli cheese soup
1/2c milk
cracked black pepper

Cook rice according to pkg directions,  while it it cooking,  thaw broccoli in a collander in the sink.  If using fresh, blanch in boiling water for about 2 minutes,  then drain.    Mix the 2 cans of soup in a large bowl with the milk and pepper,  add the broccoli and rice and mix well.  Pour into a greased 9x13 pan.  Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes..  can top with shredded cheddar cheese or buttered crackers or both the last 5 minutes of baking.
I hope you enjoy!!!

What's For Dinner Tonight!!!

I noticed how dark it is outside and was thinking it was later than 6:11 pm.. 
So what is for dinner tonight??  Something totally not planned..   but requested from the BekahBoo..  Cajun Chicken, Cornbread Casserole and a Salad with mixed greens, Walnuts, Apples and dried Cranberries..  yummy!!!!

Cajun Chicken

1/4 to 1/2 c. All purpose flour
Poultry Seasoning
Garlic Powder
Paprika
Cayenne Pepper
Cajun Seasoning
Salt and Pepper
3 to 5 boneless, skinless chicken breast
4 Tbsp.  melted butter

Mix flour and seasonings together in a bowl..   coat each breast with mixture and put in a 9x13 baking dish with 2 Tbsp of the melted butter..  pour remaining 2 Tbsp butter over top of chicken and place in a 350 degree oven for 30 to 45 minutes

Cornbread Casserole

1 can whole kernel corn, drained
1 can cream style corn
1 pkg corn muffin mix
1 egg
2 Tbsp melted butter
garlic powder
paprika

In a large bowl combine all ingredients.  Pour into a greased baking dish.  Bake uncovered in a 350 degree oven for 30 to 45 minutes until golden brown and cooked through..
I usually double this recipe

Salad

Mixture of salad greens(whatever you like)
2 honeycrisp apples,  diced
1 c. walnuts
1 c dried cranberries
salad dressing of choice.. I used Poppyseed..

I hope everyone who tries these recipes enjoys them.. They are pretty easy..  not very time consuming and convenient for a weeknight..

Hi, My name is Nina, and I am crazy!!!!

So,  I cleaned my refrigerator out so that I could have room for Mr. Gobbles and as I am rearranging things in my freezer I realize that I have an abundance of frozen peaches, mango and berries..  so I pull them all out and dump them into a huge stockpot,  add about 1 1/2 c. sugar,  1/2 c. all purpose flour,  the zest and juice of 2 oranges and 1 lemon,  cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and ginger and I let it simmer until it thickens up..   it smells yummy..   Then while that was simmering I made a crust..  about 2 1/2 c all purpose flour, 1/2 c sugar, 1 tsp salt, cinnamon and 1/2 c butter..  I mix all that together well with a fork until the butter is mixed in well with the flour mixture..  then add ice water until a soft dough forms..   I turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it,  then divide it in 2 pieces,  roll out 1 for the bottom of a 9x13 pan..  I press it in and partially up the sides and put it in a 400 degree oven for 15 minutes to bake it a little..  then pull it out.. pour the fruit mixture over and put the top crust on..  brush with an egg, water mixture and then sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon and bake for 30 to 45 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown..  :)   So I guess we are having dessert tonight.. 

Happy Sunday Morning!!!!

Good Morning everyone!!!
I feel like I have abandoned you all!!!  This being sick is for the birds,  especially when you have things that need to get done..  It was a crazy week and now I am ready for a new crazy week!!!
I did have a great Friday evening with my Boo!!  She cleaned the carpets for me Friday and they looked amazing,  so I treated her to Chinese at our favorite place.. Lucky China in Kennesaw off Cherokee Street.. I highly recommend it..  great food..  most of their business is take out and delivery,  but I love going in and relaxing with a pot of hot tea and then as I told Rebekah when we couldn't eat anymore.. I feel as stuffed as a Build A Bear!!!   We both had the Wonton Soup,  and of course the Eggrolls..  YUM!!!!   we ordered 2 entree's,   Sweet and Sour Chicken,  yes I did say chicken..  my Boo is venturing into the meat world again,  or I should say the chicken and poultry world...  so far she is good.. no sickness..  and we ordered the Lemon Chicken..  with the fried rice of course..  OMG..  it was so very yummy!!!  I think I could eat Chinese food every day..  Since Saundra was working we decided to be nice and we ordered her some Hot and Sour Soup and an order of Eggrolls..  and there was plenty of the rice and entree's left..
After we ate we went to Kohl's..  Boo found some really nice Christmas gifts..  She did an amazing job..  then we went to Target and bought Nik his first family ornament and a stocking..  I got a new Christmas throw and a huge mug..  I love them both..  lol..  I also took care of Nik's Christmas presents..  1 down,   hundreds to go..   not really..  I have already gotten my little buttercup some stuff..   just need to get her a few more things and then my kidlets..  working on one for my son and his wife.. I need to get it finished..  Have to take pics of Thanksgiving foods so it will have pics too..  :)   Once I get everything written down,  it will be easy to finish..   just need to get on that..  Maybe I can work on it some today!!! 
Friday after we left Target it was around 9:30,  to late to really go home,  so we went to steak and shake,  Rebekah got a milkshake and fries,  I got a milkshake and coffee..  lol.. I know interesting combination..   I got the Double Chocolate fudge shake and Rebekah got the Mint Chocolate Chip..  Nik met us there..   he is such a good kid..  He is good for my Boo!!!   He is very attentive to her..  
OK,  have lots to do today..  but I promise that I will post a couple recipes..  I am cooking dinner tonight..  Cajun Chicken,  Cornbread Casserole and Waldorf Salad..  Then the girls and I are going to have a movie night..  :)  
I hope everyone has a terrific day!!!!

Happy Thursday!!!!

Good Thursday Morning!!!  It is going to be a great day!!! 
One of my Target children Chad and his new bride are moving next week and I am throwing him a going away, congrats on your wedding party..  I am going to miss him.  He has been a great "son" to me...   I just hope I don't cry..    I have been busy cooking for them and I hope that they have a great time. 
I made probably the best marinara sauce ever yesterday..  I was so impressed and I just did it..  like most everything else I cook... I don't measure anything I just throw it all together and hope it comes out well..  but I did put a little extra splash of love in it.. then I put together a huge Lasagna..  it has about 4 lbs of cheese in it.. 2 lbs of mozzarella, 2 lbs of cottage and then 8 oz of Parmesan..  wow..  it is big though..  I have to get it in the oven soon to start baking low and slow..  I hope it tastes as good as the sauce..  it was the best sauce ever!!!!!
The cake.. ahh,  what can I say about the cake except that as I was letting the first coat of frosting set on it,  it split right down the middle,   but instead of having a major panic attack over it,  I fixed it..  you can't really tell..  it is gorgeous..  a triple chocolate fudge cake with a raspberry filling,  a cream cheese frosting with orange zest and chocolate covered strawberries on top..  There is a bride strawberry and a groom strawberry!!!!  :)  I can't wait for them to see it all..   I will take lots of pics for my blog..
Still have bread to do....  going to split it down the middle and spread it with a garlic herb butter and sprinkle it with some parmesan cheese and then bake it in the oven and let it get crusty..  then off to the park we will go..    

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole

3 c. mashed sweet potatoes
1/2 c. milk
2 eggs, beaten
1 c. sugar
1/2 stick butter, melted
1/2 tsp vanilla
pinch of salt

Beat all together and pour into greased 9x13 pan

Topping

1 c brown sugar
1.2 c flour
1/2 c. pecans, chopped
1/3 stick butter, melted
marshmallows

Combine 1st 4 ingredients until crumbly,  spread over top of sweet potatoes.  Bake 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.  Top with marshmallows and put back in oven to brown...  about 5 more minutes.. 

This is great to do ahead.  It gets better as it sits in the fridge waiting to be baked off in the oven.  The topping is better when it has sat in the fridge.. and gotten firm.. 

It's Wednesday!!!!

Hello everyone,  I hope all is well..   I have been a little under the weather and trying to rest as much as possible after work.  The chicken noodle soup was so very good..  It just got better as the days went by.  There is a tiny bit left.. it might be my lunch today!!
I have a lot to do today and tomorrow...  I can't say why,  because who I am busy for might read my blog and that would blow the surprise,  but be patient..  I will take lots of pictures and post them..   It involves me being in the kitchen a bit though..  :)  My favorite thing.. 
I will post another recipe for Thanksgiving today..  are you ready??  I basically am,  just need to make out my schedule for when I am going to do what..  this weekend I will be doing some cleaning and making pie crust and baking my sweet potatoes for the casserole..  will also clean out the fridge and take the turkey out of the freezer and let him start thawing in the fridge..
I started my Christmas cookie list today..  I can't wait to smell the gingersnaps cooking.. probably my favorite cookie ever..   I also mentally preparing for the Christmas eve dinner,  Christmas morning breakfast and Christmas dinner menu's and the ingredients that I will need..  What a wonderful time of the year..  I am already in the mood for Christmas music!!!   Hehe..  maybe as I am in the kitchen today I will listen to it..  hehe.. operation hide the remote so mom can listen to Christmas music is on!!!!!! 
I am off for a while.. I will post that recipe later.. 
Everyone take care and have a terrific day!!!!

Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken Noodle Soup

3 chicken breast,  boneless, skinless
8 c. water
salt and pepper.

Place chicken in a large stock pot and cover with water,  add salt and pepper.  Bring to a boil and simmer for about an hour.  Remove chicken and keep the broth for the soup.

1 onion, chopped,
4 stalks celery, diced
4 carrots, diced
8 oz mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp parsley, chopped
1 T sage, finely chopped
1 T. rosemary, chopped
1 box vegetable broth
whole wheat egg noodles or any type of pasta that you prefer.
salt and pepper

Cook onion in 1 Tbsp olive oil,  add celery, carrots, mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes,  add the garlic and herbs and cook another minute.  Add the vegetable broth and cook for a few minutes,  add the chicken broth and simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes, season with salt and pepper.   shred the chicken and add to soup.  simmer for another 15 minutes,  then add the noodles and cook for 5 to 7 more minutes. 

Sunday!!!

Well,  here we are again at the beginning of a new week..  Not sure if I would say today was a good new beginning or not..  I woke up not feeling well this morning and while at work have gotten progressively worse.  Then my BekahBoo came into work at 7:30 and she wasn't feeling well..  I know my child isn't feeling well when she asks me to make Chicken noodle soup,  because she is a vegetarian..  so I now have a huge pot of Chicken noodle soup simmering on the stove..   just have to add the chicken and noodles..   Then it will be dinnertime..   For me,  I am going to spend the rest of the afternoon resting...  It's been a very long day already!!!!  Will post the recipe and pictures later for the soup!!! 

It's the weekend!!!

Woohoo,   it's Saturday!!!  For me I say so what..  It is my weekend to work and it is going to be a brutal weekend..  LOVE IT!!!!!   Not really..  The schedule for the week of Thanksgiving/Black Friday came out and I am not disappointed..   I pull a mid Wednesday,  which I am glad of and I close on Friday..  so it all works out well..  :)   I will just have to plan my preparation for Thanksgiving around my Wednesday...  I am very happy..   I miss being in the bakery this year though.. I miss making Thanksgiving cupcakes...   I can talk food 24/7..  and I really loved being over there last year..  It makes me yearn to have my own coffee shop/cafe/bakery!!!   Not sure what will be for dinner tonight..  I do have some frozen Vegetable Barley soup that I could pull out and we could have..  maybe some grilled cheese to go with it..  Ok,  well off to finish getting ready for work..  I hope everyone has a fabulous day!!!!

Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara

1 pound spaghetti.  I use whole wheat
1/2 pound bacon, sliced crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces
3 large eggs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper
 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat and cook the spaghetti. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-low heat until just crispy, 8 to 10 minutes. Skim off some of the fat. Drain the pasta, add to the bacon in the pan, and toss to combine. 

Whisk together the eggs, cheese, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour into the pasta, and combine thoroughly. Serve immediately with extra grated cheese, if desired.

Thanksgiving Dinner Rolls

Years ago I made the mistake of making homemade dinner rolls for Thanksgiving.   Ever since my children say it isn't the holiday's without them.   A lot of people don't understand until they get to taste one.  

Dinner Rolls

2 pkgs. yeast or 5 tsp yeast
1c. plus 2Tbsp sugar
1 1/2c warm water.  about 100 to 110 degrees.  you don't want it hot,  it will kill the yeast.
1c. milk
1/2c. butter
2 eggs
2tsp salt
8 1/2 to 9 c all purpose flour or bread flour or a combination of whole wheat flour and all purpose or bread.  Use a little more all purpose or bread than wheat because the wheat flour will make the rolls heavy.

In a big bowl dissolve yeast in 1/2 c. warm water and add the 2tbsp sugar,  let sit for about 5 minutes until you see the yeast start to grow.   While the yeast is proofing, melt your butter into the milk.  I use the microwave and do it for a minute at a time in a glass measuring cup.  Make sure the milk doesn't get to hot.  you can also do this in a pan on the stove.   Beat the eggs in a bowl and add the salt.  When the yeast is bubbling then add the 1c. sugar, the milk, butter mixture slowly,  then add the warm water and the eggs and salt.  Stir well and then add 3 cups of the flour and mix adding 1 c of flour at a time mixing after each addition.  When a soft dough forms dust your counter with flour and put dough in the middle,  add more flour to the top and start kneading for 5 to 10 minutes until the dough is firm and elastic.   Grease a bowl with oil and place dough in it.  Rolling it around to coat entire surface with the oil.  cover with either plastic wrap or a clean dish towel and let rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.   Punch dough down and pull out into a floured surface.   cut into 3 equal parts and working with one at a time,  roll into a circle until about 10 to 12 inches in diameter and then using a pizza cutter cut into 8  equal pieces,  roll into crescent shapes and place on a greased pan,  repeat with other dough and again allow to rise for 45 minutes to an hour until doubled in size.  make sure when you are placing them on the pans that you give them room to double.   Bake in a 350 degree oven for 10 to 15 minutes.  

These rolls are a lot of work,  but the taste is amazing and since I got my KitchenAid mixer it does most of the work for me.   I was never taught how to make yeast breads..  it was something that I researched for a while and taught myself how.  I love it,  the smell and end product when it comes out the way you envision.  :)   I will be posting pics of everything on Thanksgiving!!! 

I am including a website with a step by step method with pics for bread making for those of you who aren't familiar with the process..
http://baking.about.com/library/weekly/aa020100.htm
You can also do your own research on bread baking..  and I hope it if is something that intrigues you that you try it.  

It's Thursday!!!

Sorry I didn't get around to posting Thanksgiving recipe's yesterday,  I will definitely get to that today and will post a dinner recipe also.  I hope everyone has been having a terrific week.  It has been absolutely gorgeous!!!   I will write more later...  I promise!!!

Good Wednesday morning!!!

Good morning!!!  I hope that everyone is well!!!  Are you ready for Thanksgiving??   Does the thought of it just make you crazy??  The answer is planning!!  I know planning is boring and no fun,  but it also helps you to not be so exhausted and frustrated..   I started my planning about 6 weeks ago with the menu, ingredients,  when I wanted to do as much prep as possible with chopping vegetables, etc.     Years ago after my mom passed away I realized I didn't have any of her recipe's written down,  and I didn't want to do that to my own children, so I started a holiday notebook,  and this year I have started working on the first copy,  in my own handwriting to give to my son and his wife for Christmas.   I hope they like it.     Ok,  off to shower..   I will post more Thanksgiving recipes later today.   Take care all and have a wonderful day!!!

Chocolate Snicker cookies (Chocolate Snicker Cookies)

Chocolate Snicker Cookies

1/2 c. butter
1/4 c. peanut butter
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 c. all purpose flour
1/2 c. cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
5 snack size snicker bars, chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Cream butter, peanut butter, sugar and brown sugar in a mixing bowl,  add eggs 1 at a time,  beating well after each until well incorporated.  Turn off mixer and add the flour, cocoa and baking soda,  turn on low and mix until all the flour is incorporated and a soft dough is formed.   Depending on humidity you may have to add a little more flour as needed.  Add the chopped snickers and mix well.   Roll into 1 inch balls and roll into sugar,  place on greased cookie sheets and bake for 8 to 10 minutes.   Makes about 3 dozen.   

I like my cookies soft and chewy so I bake them for 8 minutes and remember the longer the oven is on the hotter it gets..

Yes, it definitely was a Monday!!!

What a crazy, busy day!!!    What do I do when I am stressed??  I bake..   To the kitchen I go..   Going to make some chocolate cookies with chopped up snickers inside....  Pictures and recipe to follow!!!!

The Monday Blahs!!!!

Yes,  it is Monday!!!  Already..  why do weekends go by so fast??  Why are Mondays so hard to take??  Is is a physical or mental condition or a combination of both??   I had a pretty decent weekend,  not going to complain one bit.   Always love when I can laugh at myself,  and I did that a lot.  
I was sitting in the van waiting for Saundra to get off work and flipping stations and I came upon a Cheap Trick song,  so I am,  as my nieces used to call it,  chair dancing and singing with the volume turned up very loud,  then Pat Benatar  comes on..  so as Saundra is walking toward the van I am singing as loud as I can to her..   they kept playing good music,  Aerosmith, Rod Stewart, Bon Jovi,    Saundra's response when she got in the van.  You're crazy,   and mine to her,  and that's why you love me..  :)
So I am off to get ready for work..  Here's wishing everyone a fantastic day!!!!

Happy Sunday Evening!!! (Cream of Broccoli Soup)

It has been a great day so far!!  My car isn't fixed yet,  but I am driving the mini van until it is.  Hopefully by tomorrow!!!   I just finished making the cream of broccoli soup and it is simmering on the stove..  you just have to be careful and stir it often.  It smells really good,  and I took note of the amounts that I used for each ingredient.

Cream of Broccoli Soup or Broccoli Cheese Soup

2Tbsp butter
6Tbsp olive oil
1 small onion chopped fine
1 clove garlic, minced
8Tbsp all purpose flour
1 head fresh broccoli cut into florets or 1 16oz pkg frozen broccoli
1c. vegetable broth
1c. water
8oz 2% reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese shredded
salt
pepper
skim milk

Cook the broccoli with salt and pepper in the vegetable broth and water until tender.  Strain and keep the broth, water mixture. Set broccoli aside.  Melt the butter with the olive oil in a large stockpot,  add the chopped onion and saute for about 2 to 3 minutes until it is soft and translucent, season with salt and pepper, add the garlic and cook for a minute.  Add the flour 1 Tbsp at a time stirring well after each and let cook over medium heat for a couple minutes.  While the flour is cooking measure the broth and add enough skim milk to make 8 cups.   Whisk in the broth/milk mixture slowly so that lumps don't form.  Keep whisking and cook for about 5 to 10 minutes over medium heat until it starts to thicken,  with a wooden spoon stir the cheese into the mixture,  keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted,  add the broccoli and stir well.  Let simmer for about 10 minutes over low heat stirring occasionally.  Serve with a salad and crusty bread.

The soup simmering happily on the stove!!

I used to make this without the cheese,  but since we don't eat meat much I added the cheese for the protein.

What is that wonderful smell?!?! (Croutons for Stuffing)

The bread

After I cubed it

After I tossed it with the olive oil and herbs

I decided to get busy around 9,  showered,  dressed in my GA Bulldog hang around the house sweat pants and t-shirt and poured myself another cup of coffee,  this time with some hazelnut creamer.   I began looking at the bookcases realized that I needed to do something with all the books poking out here and there.. So those are straightened.   Seeing my Dr. Seuss collection brought back great memories of reading to my children, to my great nephew Kyler when I babysat him and his sister Caitlyn many many years ago..  Kylers favorite Dr. Seuss book; Go Dog Go.  I read it to him everyday that I watched him,  and loved every minute of it.   I used to be able to recite it word for word without cracking open the book, but not anymore.  Ahh.. the wonders of age and it's effects on the memory..hehe..   After I finished the bookcases I went into the kitchen and decided to go ahead and cook the broccoli for the soup.   I used frozen florets and cooked it in a mixture of vegetable broth and water and added salt and pepper.  I use only Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper.  I can't eat regular table salt,  it makes me sick,  and I have to be careful what I eat and where I eat it,  and the fresh black pepper is just a better flavor all around.   When I opened the refrigerator to put the vegetable broth in it I noticed the half of loaf of old whole wheat French bread and the 3 different buns sitting in there and decided to cube the bread,  toss it with olive oil and put all kinds of dried herbs on it and toasted it in the oven.  The apartment smells like Thanksgiving and it's making me hungry.  I used whatever herbs I had and went heavy on the sage, poultry seasoning and rosemary with some oregano, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, steak seasoning, no salt seasoning, Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.   I turned my oven on 300 degrees while I was cubing and tossing the bread with the herbs and then put it on a foil lined pan(for easy cleanup) and baked it for about 15 to 20 minutes,  then I turned the oven off and left the bread in there to continue drying out.

Good Sunday Morning!!!!

Good Morning!!!   What a beautiful day!!!  I love this time of year..  The only thing that would make it better is if I had a house with a fireplace!!  One day I will have that house and it will have a fireplace..   hehe,  then I will be a Christmas decorating fool!!!!
Again I can't sleep.  I woke up early, around 5ish but stayed in my warm soft bed for a while.  Now I am enjoying a nice cup of pumpkin spice coffee and watching Rachael Ray.  I like Rachael,  but not as much as I used to..  She has some good recipes but there is something about her lately that I just don't enjoy watching her as much.  She just said on tv.  don't worry about the mess,  have fun.. well of course she doesn't have to worry about the mess,  she never has to clean it up!!!  I want to see a cooking show where they only have a few kitchen utensils and have to made do with that.  Instead of 20 pots and pans,  5 knives, 6 different types of graters, etc., etc., etc.,  Though she did just show a trick to use with the lids from deli containers, put grape tomatoes or grapes in the lid,  put another lid on top and then run your knife through the two to cut either the tomatoes or grapes in half.   I guess a good idea if you have a lot of grape tomatoes or grapes to cut in half.      
Hopefully I will get my car door fixed today so I won't have to be climbing in and out of the passenger side..  Trust me,  it isn't a pretty picture..
Not much on the agenda today..  Maybe straighten up the bookcases,  they are looking a little rough.   I think I am going to make cream of broccoli soup for dinner tonight.   The hard thing is I don't go by a recipe,  I just make it.   Before the girls became vegetarians,  I used to make roasted chicken and vegetables to go with the cream of broccoli soup,  now it's just the soup, salad and bread.  Not that I mind,  Though I might roast some potatoes and carrots and sprinkle with some Parmesan cheese to go with the soup just for the smell.   We will see about the vegetables,  it all depends on how long it takes on my car.    But when I make the soup I will try to remember to write down what I am doing and when so I can give you guys the recipe.  
Take care all and have a wonderful day!!!!

What a Saturday!!!!

A nice hot bowl of Pasta Fagioli

It is so quick and easy to make and taste so good!!!!

Today was a mixture of great and not so great..   I got a lot accomplished today,  my room is all nice and clean,  my new flannel sheets, washed and smelling good with lavender fabric softener on my bed and ready for me to sleep tonight!!!   I got the living room and dining room cleaned,  dinner cooked and it smells so good.   The not so great..I go to leave to take Saundra to work and go to the bank and my car door won't unlock.  So I go unlock the passenger side,  Saundra gets in the car and reaches over to unlock the door and it won't budge..   ugghhh..  So I climb into my car through the passenger side..   I have a 1992 Toyota Corolla,  not a big car on the inside..   I get everything over but my right leg and it is just sitting there saying to me,  I don't know what your problem is old lady,  but it's not going to happen..  so I reach down,  grab my jeans and pull my unwilling leg over to the driver side..  so I go and think I get it fixed..  nope!!  So hopefully tomorrow..  because seriously I am way to old to be climbing through the passenger side of my car to the driver side..   I got my shopping done,  so everything but the perishable items are bought for Thanksgiving and enough ingredients for almost 3 weeks of dinners..    After we got all the food put up I made the Pasta Fagioli.  It smells so good,  both girls loved it!!!  :) 
Here's hoping tomorrow is a better day and I won't be crawling in and out of my car so much..

What's For Dinner Tonight!!! (Pasta Fagioli)

Brrr!!!  It is cold!!  Which I LOVE!!!   I know,  I'm not right!!  :)  I am off for the weekend and I woke up at 5:30...  gotta love it..  So now I sit in my living room watching Tyler Florence make Minestrone and Grilled Cheese/Apple/Bacon Sandwiches and Chocolate pudding..  Who doesn't love a man that can cook!!!
So on the menu for dinner tonight, Pasta Fagioli, which is a classic Italian Pasta soup and it is so good..  There are many different recipes for it,  but the one I am going to post is my absolute favorite.

Pasta Fagioli

4 Tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 Tbsp chopped parsley
1 can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can crushed tomatoes
2 c. vegetable broth
2 c. water
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp dried thyme
salt and pepper to taste
1 c. small pasta

Heat olive oil in large stockpot,  add onion and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes,  then add the garlic and parsley,  cook for 2 minutes and then add the drained beans, tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, the dried herbs, salt and pepper and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes to let the flavors marry.  Bring back up to a boil and add pasta and cook for 7 to 9 minutes.. depending on the shape and size of pasta that you have..  Refer to package directions.   Serve with a salad and crusty bread.

This is a pretty thick soup,  if you prefer for it to be a little thinner add more vegetable broth or water.  

If you have time you can heat the vegetable broth and water in a separate stockpot with a head of garlic cut in half,  discard garlic and then add stock to the soup.   You can also use fresh basil, oregano and thyme if you choose..  just use about a tablespoon or more of each..

I would love to know if anyone tries any of my recipes and how they turned out for you!!!  Would love any type of feedback.. good or bad..
Have a wonderful day,
Nina

Hi!!!

Hi,  my name is Nina and I have a problem!!!  I am addicted to Santas..  is there a 12 step program to help me with this??   I want to decorate for Christmas already!!  It is only the 5th of November..  What is wrong with me??   I bought Samantha a few Christmas Ornaments that she can touch..  I want her to be able to experience all of Christmas..  they are so cute and I am thinking of getting her a 3 ft tree to put the ornaments on..  I have an obsession with Christmas..  not with the gifts,  but about the memories from the past,  of family and friends not with us anymore.. I love the feeling I get when I am decorating and remembering where every decoration came from..  I will try to curb my obsession until after Thanksgiving!!!!  Wish me luck!!!!

It's Friday!!!

For those of you who don't work in retail this time of year is hectic, annoying, stressful, amazing, crazy, a pain in the behind and exhausting!!!!   I love this time of year,  I try to keep my objective when dealing with difficult people but sometimes it can be hard..   so when we are lucky enough to get a weekend off it is so appreciated!!!!
I have so much to get done this weekend,  but I also have to remind myself that it is a weekend off and I need to allow myself time to relax..  which is so hard for me..   I honestly don't know how to relax,  but I am trying....
Not sure what I will be cooking this weekend..  it feels like soup and chili weather..  so maybe I will cook something along those lines..    but I am feeling a little pasta too.. we won't know until I step into the kitchen..
I hope that everyone has a fabulous day!!!!!
Take care,
Nina

Happy Thursday Evening!! (Thanksgiving Menu and Cranberry Sauce)

I promised to post my Thanksgiving menu yesterday so here it is..   I like to try new things and over the years have added a few things and they have disappeared.   I have learned to stick with the basics,  the recipes tried and true that everyone requests over and over again..

Roasted Turkey
Mashed Potatoes
Stuffing
Gravy
Green Bean Cassarole
Sweet Potato Cassarole
Broccoli Cheese Cassarole
Maple Glazed Carrots
Cranberry Sauce
Dinner Rolls

I am not a fan of smoked turkey,  have never had it fried...  and maybe one day I will try it..  I am a tried and true Roasted Turkey fan..   I also never stuff my turkey,  I like cooking the stuffing in it's own pan.. that way the edges get nice and crispy and can soak up the gravy really well..  I have never made giblet gravy,  I don't even like the thought of giblet grave..  GROSS!!!!!     My broccoli cheese cassarole I am still tweaking,  the one year I made it and it was perfect I didn't write down what I put in it or what I used..  so I am still experimenting with it.. 

Cranberry Sauce

2 pkgs fresh cranberries
2 c. sugar
2 c. fresh orange juice
the zest from 2 to 3 oranges

Mix all ingredients in a heavy bottom saucepan,  place over medium heat and bring to a boil..  turn heat down a  little and simmer for 10 minutes until cranberries start bursting.  Take from heat and let cool,  then put in a covered container and place in refrigerator..  This is better when made 2 to 3 days before Thanksgiving.

Good Morning!!

Good Morning Everyone!!!
I hope everyone slept well!!   I am so glad it is Thursday,  it means I work today and tomorrow and am off the weekend!!! 
Have lots of cleaning to do to get ready for Thanksgiving..   I love Thanksgiving..  the simplicity of it..  don't get me wrong,  I LOVE Christmas too..  but the only expectations around Thanksgiving is that there is good food, good company and good FOOTBALL!!  I have been helping cook Thanksgiving dinner since I can remember..  My mom had this China that my Dad bought and sent her from Korea when he was in the war and it wasn't the prettiest design,  but it was unique..  My niece now has it..   We would get it all down off the china cabinet and wash it,  dust the china cabinet and then put it back..  We would start the weekend before Thanksgiving and we stayed busy up until Thanksgiving cleaning..  it was a bonding experience.. the holidays are bitter sweet for me..  I miss my mom..  She taught me a lot about cooking and the rest I learned from trial and error,  being willing to try new recipes and then creating my own..   We never decorated for Thanksgiving,  but I do..  I started collecting the Publix Pilgrims years ago and I believe that I have the whole set,  plus have some leaf and pumpkin bowls scattered about..   I also found some really cute leaf candles and leaf candle holders.  If I can remember I will take pics this evening when I get home..
I think tonight is going to be a clean out the refrigerator night to get ready for my big shopping planned for Saturday..   I have this problem with Thanksgiving..  it has always been find the biggest turkey and buy it..  but this year I am going to buy an all natural,  hormone and antibiotic free turkey,  so it isn't going to be that big..  and I am going to have to get over the biggest turkey ever obsession that I have..   and I can for Samantha's sake!!   I can't wait for all the smells that I associate with Thanksgiving..  Still not sure about desserts..  we don't really eat them,  but I don't know.. we will see.. will have to talk to the children again and see what they say about it..  :)
I need to finish getting ready for work!!  I hope that everyone has a fantastic day!!!

Not so Lazy Wednesday (Cranberry Orange Biscuits)

Just rolled and put on the greased pan.  I like to use foil for easy cleanup

Cranberry Orange Biscuits before baking

Fresh from the oven and topped with the glaze

Hashbrowns looking delish

Well,  I wasn't going to cook dinner,  but my daughters,  Saundra Nicole and Rebekah Lynn were pouting and acting like they were starving..   not like they were really starving but I cooked dinner anyway..  I made breakfast..  I love breakfast for dinner.. it is the best,  especially when it is on the cool side and a little overcast...  
For dinner tonight was:
Cranberry Orange Biscuits
Hashbrowns
Scrambled Eggs
and for Saundra
Turkey Bacon..
I admit that I sometimes eat Turkey bacon and Turkey Italian Sausage.. but not often.. I prefer non meat meals..  :)

Cranberry Orange Biscuits
(disclaimer..  I never measure anything when I make biscuits so these are guesses on amounts)
2 c self rising flour
1/4 c sugar
zest of 2 oranges
1/2 c butter softened or butter flavored shortening
juice from 2 oranges
milk

put the flour, sugar and orange zest in a big bowl,  stir with fork and then add the butter,  mask the butter into the flour mixture with a fork until it is incorporated well,  add the juice of the oranges and mix in,  add milk a little at a time until a soft dough forms..   dust counter with more flour and turn dough out,  kneading in more flour..  until it is easy to handle and not sticky..   I pink off pieces of dough and roll in my hands and put on a greased pan..  you can roll the dough out and cut with a biscuit cutter if you want...   cook in a 350 degree oven for 20 to 30 minutes until a light brown..

glaze
powdered sugar
orange zest
juice from orange

mix all in a small bowl until incorporated..  added more powdered sugar if needed..  put 1 tablespoon of glaze over each biscuit..

The zest and fresh orange juice give these biscuits a very fresh and clean flavor..

Lazy Wednesday

It has been a lazy Wednesday for me..  I had a nail appt this morning at 11 and really haven't done much of anything since I got home..  I did make out a shopping list for dinners up to Thanksgiving..  There are going to be a lot of quick dishes and soups,  I love soup and this time of the year inspires me to make more soups..  I am going to miss making Chicken Noodle Soup..  but maybe I will make up a Vegetable Noodle soup instead with lots of fresh celery, carrots and mushrooms,  maybe even add leeks and some kale..  

I am excited about Thanksgiving..  I love cooking for Thanksgiving,  it is tedious but I love every second of it..  I think I am going to make my own seasoned bread cubes for the stuffing..  or I might break down and buy a package of pepperidge farms..   Maybe tomorrow I will post my menu for Thanksgiving and then from tomorrow until Thanksgiving post the recipe's for each one..  This year I will be using more organic ingredients because of my beautiful granddaughter Samantha Riley..  don't want her to be exposed to all those nasty hormones they put in Turkeys and in Cows..  

I would love feedback..  :) 
Take care all
Nina,  who is taking the night off from cooking!!!