Best Damn Day

I look forward to this day every year for one reason.....it's officially the beginning of Christmas. In my book it is officially legal to pull out the Christmas decorations. I can start raising the tree (all 13' feet of it), hanging the ornaments, tossing the tinsel, setting the manger, aligning the Santas, Angels, and Snowmen. Oh what a delight today will be. Usually this master plan gets squashed because I come down with some cold or flu, but this year, oh no, I got over being sick a few days ago, my back has sufficiently healed from blowing it out this past Sunday. I'm ready, willing, and able to begin the Holidays!!! As soon as everything is Christmas perfect I'll snap some photos to share with one and all. What a day this is for me!!! I can officially say Merry Christmas!!!

Hot Crab Dip

This dip is oh so yummy and a snap to make!!! I've made it over and over for a bazillion years, and still put it up there as one of my more favorite appetizers to serve. Where I got it? Who knows!

3 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
6 ounces crabmeat, drained
1/4 cup minced onion
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

Beat cream cheese until smooth. Stir in remaining ingredients. Spoon into small ovenproof dish. Bake at 350 degrees, 30 minutes or until bubbly. Serve with crackers.

ENJOY!!!

Thankful

I've been thinking all week what I wanted to say in today's entry. I didn't want to remind people of what they should be thankful for, since they should already know that. Also, some people find themselves quite hopeless and would be hard-pressed to find anything to be thankful about. So I decided to talk about just myself. I've been thankful for many things over the years. I'm always thankful for a roof over my head, clothes on my being, and food on my table. Back in 1981 I was thankful God gave me a healthy, happy baby boy, and again, in 2008, he gave me a healthy, happy, granddaughter. I've been blessed with my kiddo.....Justin. Then top that off with my kiddo by marriage, Sara. Only animal people would understand this, but I can't imagine my life without my hairy kids, Harley, Emily, Mo, and Logray. I can't imagine one day going by without the man that walks by my side in this journey called life.....the sweetest man in this universe, my Dan. Throughout the years what I've been thankful for has changed for various reasons, unfortunately 2004 was the year from hell, and I'd be forced to wrack my brain to come up with anything to be thankful for. But that was four years ago, and I can honestly say today, through all the tragedy, pain, and tears we endured that I did have something to be thankful for.....family and friends. Do you notice that those are two things that are always there. Those two things help shape us in who we are. Yes, most of us can buy clothes, cars, electronics, but these items don't shape us, they don't love us, or care how we feel. They're inanimate objects that are just that.....inanimate. A friend or family member can wrap their arms around you in greeting, to make you feel better, or just because. I remember my 2004 Christmas newsletter I sent out and the whole letter was to say thanks to all our friends and family for being there for us during that heartbreaking year. I guess we never really forget what's most important in our lives, and what we can't live without. Through life's ups and downs, that's what's most important.....family and friends. Oh, and one more thing!!! Seeing Santa Claus EVERY SINGLE YEAR at the end of the Macy's Day Parade!!! With a tear in my eye, my heart fills with childish joy, and I remember what it's all about.....family and friends!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Original Nestle Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies

I know that just about everyone has tried this recipe at one time or another, but it's definitely a good one to have on hand. Check out some of the other recipes VeryBestBaking has to share.

2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups (12-oz. pkg.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
1 cup chopped nuts

Directions:
PREHEAT oven to 375° F.

COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels and nuts. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.

BAKE for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

PAN COOKIE VARIATION: Grease 15 x 10-inch jelly-roll pan. Prepare dough as above. Spread into prepared pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in pan on wire rack. Makes 4 dozen bars.

SLICE AND BAKE COOKIE VARIATION:
PREPARE dough as above. Divide in half; wrap in waxed paper. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm. Shape each half into 15-inch log; wrap in wax paper. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.* Preheat oven to 375° F. Cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices; place on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Makes about 5 dozen cookies.

* May be stored in refrigerator for up to 1 week or in freezer for up to 8 weeks.

Estimated Times:
Preparation - 15 min, Cooking - 9 min, Cooling Time - 15 min cooling, Yields - 60

Burning the Midnight Oil

My current read is Janet Evanovich's between-the-numbers novel, "Plum Lucky." These books are very light reading, but with the same robust humor you find in her numbers series. As is always the case, Stephanie is always in the middle of trouble, but keeps you laughing the whole way through. Here's a little something to entice you.....

"Stephanie Plum has a way of attracting danger, lunatics, oddballs, bad luck...and mystery men. And no one is more mysterious than the unmentionable Diesel. He's back and hot on the trail of a little man in green pants who's lost a giant bag of money. Problem is, the money isn't exactly lost. Stephanie's Grandma Mazur has found it, and like any good Jersey senior citizen, she's hightailed it in a Winnebago to Atlantic City to hit the slots. With Lula and Connie in tow, Stephanie attempts to bring Grandma home, but the luck of the Irish is rubbing off on everyone: Lula's found a job modeling plus-size lingerie. Connie's found a guy. Diesel's found Stephanie. And Stephanie has found herself over her head with a caper involving thrice-stolen money, a racehorse, a car chase, and a bad case of the hives."

Aunt Mary Dillon's Praline Cookies

Following is a delicious recipe for praline cookies I acquired about 8 years ago. I got the recipe from Martha Stewart's website.

1-2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
2-1/2 cups light-brown sugar, firmly packed
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy cream, plus more if necessary
1 cup sifted confectioners' sugar
1 cup pecan halves, toasted and broken into large pieces

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter and 1-1/2 cups light-brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add egg and vanilla. Beat until fully combined. Add dry ingredients, and beat on low speed until combined.

Drop batter in rounded teaspoons onto ungreased baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake until firm and barely golden, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack to cool for 5 minutes, then transfer cookies from pan to wire rack.

In a small saucepan, combine remaining 1 cup light-brown sugar and cream. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Add confectioners' sugar, and whisk until smooth. (If frosting thickens, thin with cream.) Add pecan pieces. Place cookies on a cooling rack over a lined baking pan. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon praline mixture onto each cookie.

Makes 3 dozen

Owwww

Man, I kicked my butt this past Sunday. We have a small forest of giant bamboo in our backyard that had quite a few poles that needed to be dealt with. Our initial intention was to chop them up and chunk them, but my brother has a friend who does something with landscaping and is willing to take them off our hands. He's even welcome to take the two feet of bamboo between the forest and the fence that is still growing, but that's his decision. Where did my ass kicking come into play? In order to prep the bamboo we had to cut off all the stems that grow out of the knots (or whatever it's called). Since I have wimpy wrists, that became Dan's job. I got the job of cleaning up all that mess AND raking all the fallen bamboo leaves (and there was a ton of them - due to lack of diligence on our part), and bagging them. The first twang I felt in my back should have been a major red flag to put down the rake and walk away, but noooooo, I wouldn't listen to that little voice in my head. Instead I moved on to phase two and started bagging the limbs and leaves. I thought I'd be really brilliant and pull up a chair to do the job. Yes, I was sitting, but yes, I was still bent over. Hey, I got the job done, but today I look like a human question mark. I can't decide if I feel worse sitting or standing, and I sure as heck don't want to be laying down. So who's my best friend today? Aleve!!! May be someday I'll learn my lesson, but after 39 years of this aching back, I don't think I ever will. Oh well, c'est la vie!!!

Lipton Onion Burgers

Here's a quick and easy way to jazz up a plain old burger. From the Lipton Kitchens.

1 envelope Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Soup Mix
2 pounds ground beef
1/2 cup water

Combine all ingredients in large bowl; shape into 8 patties.

Grill or broil until done.

Serve 8

Green

I was telling my step-daughter in an email this past Friday that I didn't like green. I assume at some time in my life that I did, but for year after year I had to wear a green uniform while attending Ursuline Academy back in Maryland, a private all-girls school. I had both a summer and winter uniform, both green. I wore green socks, green skirt, green vest, green jacket, and a green tie. I hate green! It was no wonder when I got to high school I would add something to my being that was against the dress code. Anyone remember those stretchy shorts girls would wear that were striped and in bright colors? I'd wear them under my skirt just to jazz things up. Instead of the jacket I'd wear a blue hand-knit sweater (made by my Mom), or god-forbid, but I did do it, wear non-regulation shoes (they had black soles, and NOT the crepe soles that were required). I wore earrings that dangled, a big no-no, and the list goes on. I definitely was a bit of a rebel in my youth, and got away with most everything because I didn't have the rebel look. It's amazing how far an innocent look will get you. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't a bad girl, just one who liked adventure, and gave it a shot whenever I could. So as I sit here and look at my blog, I wonder why in the hell do I have green as one of the prevalent colors. I hate green! I do have an answer for that, I can't change the background without losing all my entries (I know, I tried, but was smart enough to save it before I screwed up). I still hate green!

One Bowl Chocolate Pecan Pie

Here's a wonderful recipe from Baker's and Karo for chocolate pecan pie.

1 package (8 squares) BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate
1 refrigerated pie crust (I use a frozen deep dish pie crust)
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
3 eggs, slightly beaten
1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 cup light or dark corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla
1-1/2 cups pecan halves or walnut pieces

HEAT oven to 350 degrees. Coarsely chop 4 squares of the chocolate and set aside. Line 9-inch pie plate as directed on package with pie crust.

MICROWAVE remaining 4 squares of chocolate and butter in large microwavable bowl on HIGH 1 to 2 minutes or until butter is melted. Stir until chocolate is completely melted.

BRUSH bottom of pie crust with small amount of beaten egg. Stir sugar, corn syrup, eggs and vanilla into chocolate mixture until well blended. Stir in pecans or walnuts and chopped chocolate. Pour into pie crust.

BAKE 55 minutes or until knife inserted 2 inches from edge comes out clean. Cool on wire rack.

Makes 8 servings

Map Wrap

My friend Kathy from Vancouver, WA was telling me recently about a gift wrapping idea she put to use. She has some friends up there that are moving across the country and she wanted to give them some going-away gifts, but wrapped in a way to remind them where they came from. So she found some maps from the area, and voila, a very clever idea was born!!!

Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

All I can say about this gravy is TASTY, TASTY, TASTY!!! This is such a fool-proof recipe, and you'll get nothing but rave reviews. This recipe from Women's Day magazine I made for our first Thanksgiving together as husband and wife, and as a blended family back in 1999.

4 turkey wings (about 3 pounds)
2 medium onions, peeled and quartered
1 cup water
8 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup chopped carrot
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
3/4 cup flour
2 tablespoon stick butter or margarine
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Have ready a large roasting pan.

Arrange wings in a single layer in pan; scatter onions over top. Roast 1-1/4 hours until wings are browned.

Put wings and onions in a 5-to-6 quart pot. Add water to roasting pan and stir to scrape up any brown bits on bottom. Add to pot. Add 6 cups (I added an extra can) broth (refrigerate remaining 2 cups), carrot and thyme. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 1-1/2 hours.

Remove wings to cutting board. When cool, pull off skin and meat. Discard skin; save meat for another use.

Strain broth into a 3-quart saucepan, pressing vegetables to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard vegetables; skim fat off broth, and discard. (If time permits, refrigerate broth overnight to make fat-skimming easier).

Whisk flour into remaining 2 cups (I used 1 can) broth until blended and smooth.

Bring broth in pot to a gentle boil. Whisk in broth-flavored mixture and boil 3 to 4 minutes to thicken gravy and remove floury taste. Stir in butter and pepper.

Refrigerate gravy up to 1 week or freeze up to 6 months.

NOTE: When I make this gravy it's usually for Thanksgiving. So here's my timeline...bake wings on Sunday, make gravy on Monday and refrigerate, reheat and serve on Thursday.

Makes 8 cups

Linda Carter Holman - Artist

Recently while thumbing through a magazine, I saw some artwork that caught my eye. Intrigued enough I noted the website and pulled it up on the computer. I was in awe with the vibrancy of each and every piece of art. I also loved the roundness of the subjects. They spoke to me, each and every one of them. I loved all the different series, but the 'Southwest' and 'Belles' series tugged at my soul the most. My absolute favorite piece is "Lucky." Me being a Texas gal, she epitomized Texas. By the way, that' Lucky up above. I don't buy artwork that often, but I do see purchasing this poster very soon (or it could be a Christmas hint). Please check out this wonderful artist's website here!

Pappadeaux Crawfish Bisque

I'm not sure how many years ago I found this recipe in the Houston Chronicle, but hands down, Pappadeaux has absolutely the BEST crawfish bisque I've ever eaten!!!

3 tablespoons olive oil
3 pounds crawfish (remove tails; save shells)
1 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
6 cups water
½ cup each, chopped: onion and green bell pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
3 cups whipping cream
½ cup chopped tomato
4 ounces (1 stick) butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 ounces brandy

Heat oil in saucepan. Saute crawfish shells, paprika and cayenne 5 minutes in oil. Add water; bring to a boil and simmer 30 minutes.

Strain liquid into another pan. Crush shells to remove remaining liquid. Strain remaining liquid into first mixture. Discard shells. Return to heat and add onion, bell pepper, tomato paste, cream and tomato.

In small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, and cook 2 minutes. Do not let roux darken. Add roux to main pot and whip until thoroughly combined. Simmer 40 minutes, stirring frequently. Add brandy and crawfish tails; simmer 10 minutes. Serve hot.

NOTE: Use an immersion blender in the bisque before serving to create the creamy mixture like the restaurant serves.

Makes 8 servings

Weird...Gross...Ingenious

I swear there are some REALLY strange things out there. Stuff I know I couldn't even dream up (even though my son could - he's gifted that way), and turn that idea around and make a living out of selling it. Recently I found oooms, which is located in Eindhoven, The Netherlands. What really grabbed my attention at this site was the USB sticks, lighting, and the hanging chair. The road kill carpet, mind you it's way cool, but way gross, is definitely one-of-a-kind in my book! Anyway, check out some of the finds I chose to share with you.....

Wooden USB Sticks.....
Road Kill Carpet.....

Sea Urchin Hanging Chair.....

Dandelion Chandelier.....


Hair Hats (100% human hair).....

Pull Me (locates those hard-to-find pull strings).....

Amaretto Cream

My friend in Vancouver, WA sent this recipe to me for a delicious sauce for fruit. So I’d like to share it with you…..

8 ounce package cream cheese
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup sour cream
1/3 cup Amaretto liquor or to taste
1 teaspoon vanilla (optional)

Mix all ingredients together, and chill. Serve with fresh fruit.

Babysitting Gift Card

Since moola has been mucho tight around the Gulch for quite a few months, I tried to come up with some unique gifts for Justin and Sara when their baby was due. One of those gifts was a gift card for babysitting, with a value of one billion dollars on it. I used one of those throw-away credit cards that you get at least a dozen per week in the mail. I went to my local scrapbooking store and bought some yellow, orange, and black cardstock. Paid for that and walked over to the template station and found the rubber duck template and punched it out. With all those pieces in hand, I applied some white adhesive labels on both sides of the credit card (make sure the labels are larger than the credit card), and trimmed to size. Please note that I cut around the swipe strip on the backside for a realistic effect. I then glued my rubber duck's parts together, and adhered it to the credit card. From there I applied some rub-on letters (had them on hand) to both sides of the gift card, and VOILA, an inexpensive gift!!!

Oh Rats...

...and I mean that literally!!! As you well know I HATE snakes, lizards, frogs, AND rats!!! Now I REALLY hate rats. Last night was like a scene out of the movie “Ben.” This was an epic Hollywood adventure right here at the Gulch. I was the star, and I had all my brave little minions around me. The unnamed and unwelcome characters were 4 (count ‘em), 4 RATS!!! This is so gross, and so many other adjectives also to describe the scene. I was waiting for Dan’s call last night saying he was on his way home, which was my signal to fire up the grill. I got that call and headed out to the grill and turned on the gas, then proceeded to lift the lid when I saw 3 BIG, FAT, HAIRY gray rats. One jumped off to the right, another headed right at me, and the third was a blur as I screamed bloody murder and exceeded the land speed record running into the house. This was a field day for the dogs having all these little rodents to chase gleefully around the yard, but sometime during my screaming episode I was also calling for the dogs to follow me to safety. Safely indoors, and with my heart beating a million miles a minute, I called Dan, and in total honesty you’d have to ask him what I said, but I gather he was getting quite a bit of enjoyment out of my story (he confessed later that if he witnessed this scenario he would have been laughing so hard that he would have risked injury from me). Now I’ve had the chance to calm down, I head back out to the crematorium (I did leave the lid up), with electric match in one hand and my cell phone in the other (with Dan on the line). I repeat the process and turn on the gas, but didn’t light it right away, thank the lawd, because ANOTHER rat flew out of the bowels of this fire-breathing pit of death trying to escape certain death in this gas chamber. When I say flew, I mean straight up and out, and soared about 6 feet, landed on the grass, with Emily in hot pursuit (little fat girls can run fast). I screamed louder than the first time, snapped my cell shut, and high-tailed it back into the house. Everything got kind of blurry after that, another call to Dan, one to my son, tears coming to my eyes, swearing we’re moving to a high rise, thinking I need to check the toilet before sitting down (they do come up the pipes), wondering what a sight it would have been if I lit the grill BEFORE the 4th rat jumped out, and if I did, would the blazing rat have run under the deck and set the house on fire. My mind can really overact in a very short amount of time. After all the series of events were over, Dan set out some rat poison (even in the grill), and checked it this morning, and yes, they found the poison. Those bloody rodents are going to be history!!! AAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHA (say that with evil in your voice). The final question is why now? We’ve been living here for 9-½ years, and have NEVER had rats in the grill. I just don’t get it.

Italian Tomato Sauce

This is such a rich and thick spaghetti sauce, and very simple to make. From The Fanny Merritt Farmer Boston Cooking School Cookbook.

Put in a large skillet or a saucepan:

3 tablespoons olive oil or 2 tablespoons oil and 1 tablespoon butter
1 or 2 onions, sliced thin
1 clove garlic, split

Cook until the onion is golden. Add:

1/2 to 1 pound ground beef (I omit the meat)

Cook and stir 5 minutes. Add:

1 can tomato paste
1 large can tomatoes - about 2-1/2 cups (I use 3 small cans of V-8)
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt, pepper, cayenne, oregano and basil to taste

Simmer at least 1 hour. Add water as needed, but the sauce should be thick and smooth. For the finest flavor, let the sauce mellow for a day before using it. For ½ pound spaghetti.

Variations: Add other seasonings such as thyme, chopped parsley, a few grains of mace or allspice or a few drops of Worcestershire or Tabasco.

Omit the meat for a simpler sauce.

Substitute for the tomatoes 2-½ cups tomato juice, water or consomme.

In place of olive oil, use other salad oil, bacon, fat, or 2 slices bacon, diced.

Omit the onion, garlic, and sugar.

History of US Presidents T-Shirt

I found this t-shirt at isotope's shop on Etsy. I've tried to come up with several descriptions for it, but the only one that came to mind was.....cool. I like this shirt, and I like it a lot

Barbie

Most of us had a Barbie sometime during their childhood. I believe the Barbie that I have (yes, she sits in a box in my closet) is the third one Mattel produced. Recently I saw some of the limited edition Barbie’s that are on today’s market, and am always intrigued by the newest and latest Barbie’s out there. There are just too many to list here, but wanted to share several with you.....

Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds" Barbie...

The Mod Squad Barbies...

and the coolest of all, Medusa Barbie...

Chantico

The Big Boober is a HUGE fan of Starbucks Chantico (their ultra-rich hot chocolate.....liken it to drinking a melted Hershey bar). From what I can gather, they haven't sold that delight since 2006, but it doesn't stop Dan from mentioning it from time to time. I know somewhere in my massive recipe files I have the Chantico recipe, but decided to share with you one I found at Recipe Zaar.

Ingredients:

4 cups milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate or semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 pinch salt
Miniature marshmallows
Whipped cream (optional)

Directions:

Bring milk, cocoa powder and sugar to simmer in heavy large saucepan over medium-high heat, whisking frequently.

Add chocolate; whisk until melted and smooth.

Add salt; bring to simmer, whisking constantly until frothy.

Ladle into 4 mugs.

Sprinkle with marshmallows or dollop of whipped cream.

Makes 4 servings

I Want These Bottles

As most of you are already aware, I have a Bottle Tree growing in my backyard, and on occasion I ask friends and family to save their bottles for the tree. Well, I saw these ever so cool limited edition Malibu Rum bottles, but alas, they're only to be found in Europe. Not too many people I know go to Europe on a regular basis…..watch this, I’m going to beg…..if ANYBODY on this planet goes to Europe and sees any of these bottles, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE pick me up one or all so I can add it to my bottle tree. I’ll even pay for shipping. You’ll have to do the drinking, because I so do NOT like coconut rum, so there’s your upside to this little scheme…..you get the buzz…..I get the bottle. Everyone’s happy! Any takers???

Gingerbread Boys

Here's a fun recipe from Betty Crocker's New Boys and Girls Cook Book that you can make with your kiddos. I made them a few times when I was a little girl baker, but I honestly can't recall the last time that I made them, so here goes.....

Mix thoroughly in bowl:
1/4 cup soft shortening
1/2 cup sugar

Mix in:
1/2 cup dark molasses
1/4 cup water

Stir together in another bowl:
2-1/2 cups Gold Medal Flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon soda
3/4 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon allspice

Mix these dry ingredients into molasses mixture.

Chill dough 2 to 3 hours.

Heat oven to 375 degrees.

Lightly grease a baking sheet.

Divide dough into 3 portions. (Place 2 portions of dough in refrigerator until ready to use). On a lightly floured board, roll out dough with floured rolling pin. Roll to 1/4-inch thickness. (For easiest rolling, use a lightly floured cloth-covered board and rolling pin).

Cut with a gingerbread-boy cutter dipped in flour.

With wide spatula, carefully place gingerbread boys on prepared baking sheet.

After your little boys are lined up on the baking sheet, add eyes and buttons of raisins, red cinnamon candies, or bits of gumdrops. And for boys that are running, carefully push up a leg on each. Dough arms, turned up at an angle, make boys that wave "hello" as they come out of the oven.

Bake 10 to 12 minutes.

Cool slightly, then carefully remove from baking sheet. Cool on wire rack.

Make outlines for collar, cuffs, belt, and shoes with Creamy Frosting (see below).

Makes about 15 Gingerbread Boys.

Creamy Frosting

Mix 1 cup sifted confectioners' sugar, 4 teaspoons milk, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla in small bowl. Tint with food coloring, if you like.

Starbucks Hot Chocolate...Mmmmm

Today I'm going to flustermuck you. I've been craving Starbucks Hot Chocolate since last Friday, and was determined to get a cup this past weekend to make me feel better (yes, I'm STILL sick). Well, one thing led to another and the hot chocolate never happened. So Monday I decided come hell or high water I WAS going to Starbucks and I WOULD get my hot chocolate. Hot chocolate found.....big mmmmm.....and warming bliss. I could just feel the gunk in my chest go ahhhhh and melt away. So mission one accomplished! Then I thought why not have a clone recipe on hand, so I pulled up my favorite site.....Google.....and typed in 'Starbucks Hot Chocolate' and voila.....there was a recipe. So lucky you, I'm sharing my recipe find and now you see how you got flustermucked.....you got a two-fer.....what's up with me entry AND a recipe.....ingenious!!!

Starbucks Hot Chocolate (clone)

Ingredients:
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons cocoa
2 tablespoons sugar
1-1/2 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream

Directions:

Measure water, cocoa, and sugar in glass measuring cup or large mug. Stir well.

Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes to make chocolate syrup.

Stir in milk and vanilla and microwave until warm.

Top with whipped cream.

Molasses Crinkles

Another recipe from Betty Crocker's New Boys and Girls Cook Book.

Mix thoroughly in bowl:
3/4 cup soft shortening
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 egg
1/4 cup molasses

Stir together in another bowl:
2-1/4 cups Gold Medal Flour
2 teaspoons soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix these dry ingredients into shortening mixture.

Chill dough in refrigerator 2 hours or overnight.

Heat oven to 375 degrees.

Lightly grease a baking sheet.

Roll teaspoonfuls of chilled dough into balls the size of large walnuts.

Dip tops in sugar. Place cookies, sugared side up, 3 inches apart on baking sheet.

Bake 10 to 12 minutes, or just until set but not hard.

Cook on wire rack.

Makes 4 dozen cookies.

Bacon Flavored Lip Balm

I've got to admit that this is odder than odd. Bacon-flavored lip balm? I'd like to say that now I've heard of everything, but I know I haven't and never will. I'm a tried and true bacon fan, and I do love their bacon salt, but lip balm. Hmmm...I'm not so sure. They currently don't sell it by itself, but you can purchase The Ultimate Bacon Lover's Gift Pack for $39.99, which includes 3 NEW bacon salt flavors, and get the lip balm thrown in for good measure. J&D's has a great website and a fun blog, so check them out!

Quick Peanut Butter Cookies

Looks like I'm going to keep on giving you my favorite childhood recipes from Betty Crocker's New Boys and Girls Cookbook.

Heat oven to 375 degrees.

Mix in large bowl:
1/2 package of Betty Crocker's yellow cake mix
1 cup chunk-style peanut butter
2 eggs
1/3 cup water

Beat with a spoon or electric mixer until smooth and well blended.

Blend in:
remaining 1/2 package of Betty Crocker's yellow cake mix

Mix thoroughly. (It may be necessary to use your hands to mix the dough).

Drop dough by teaspoonfuls about 3 inches apart on ungreased baking sheet. (Cookies should be about the size of walnuts).

With a fork dipped in flour, flatten rounds of dough by pressing a crisscross design on top of each cookie.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until a light golden brown.

Cool cookies on baking sheet about 2 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool.

Makes 4 to 5 dozen cookies.

Interesting.....

For those of you who aren't aware, I have the capability of seeing how people get to my blog, and where they go when they leave. So I've noticed in the past week how many hits my 'Watergate Cake with Cover-Up Frosting' entry has gotten. It was especially hit hard on Election Day! That made me smile thinking of all the parties that were happening throughout the country in celebration of the winner where this wonderful cake would be served. For those of you who missed the recipe, you can link to it here. It's an absolutely delicious and refreshing cake, no matter what its name implies. There are quite a few other entries that get lots of hits.....fleece dog toys, Shrimp Brochette with Montequilla Butter Sauce, Big Boober.....and the list goes on. I'm also blown away that people from 79 different countries have come and visited my humble blog. This blog started off as being a way to keep friends and family updated on the adventures in our lives, and to throw in a few recipes for good measure. Needless to say, I can't believe how many people have actually visited this site, over 8,000 people and counting (the site meter button doesn't include hits arriving through search engines). As time has gone by, I've tried to religiously add an entry on a daily basis, plus add a recipe a day. Unfortunately, last week I felt like major do-do, and skipped Thursday's entry (god forbid), but I reassured myself that that would be forgivable. I just hope that I can keep coming up with interesting things to say, and keep trying out new recipes to share with you. I've got some craft projects happening that I'll add when I have enough time to stop, sit my butt down, and finish them. So have patience with me, it will happen.....eventually! I've been doing this blog for over 8-1/2 months now, and it has definitely become an important part of me, and one that I love to share with you. So thanks go out to all of you for checking in with Calamity Anne's Adventures!!!

Salted Peanut Crisps

I share with you another recipe from Betty Crocker's New Boys and Girls Cookbook.

Heat oven to 375 degrees.

Lightly grease a baking sheet.

Mix thoroughly in bowl:
1 cup soft shortening (part butter)
1-1/2 cups brown sugar (packed)
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla

Stir together in another bowl:
3 cups Gold Medal Flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon soda

Mix these dry ingredients into shortening mixture.

Stir in:
2 cups salted peanuts

Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls about 2 inches apart on baking sheet.

Grease the bottom of a glass. To flatten each cookie, dip glass in sugar and press on dough.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes.

Cool on wire rack.

Makes about 6 dozen cookies.

Sparkling Sugar Cookies

Here's another recipe I made many times from the Betty Crocker's New Boys and Girls Cook Book.

Heat oven to 400 degrees.

Lightly grease a baking sheet.

Mix thoroughly in bowl:
1/2 cup soft shortening
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

Blend in:
1 egg
2 tablespoons milk

Stir together in another bowl:
2 cups Gold Medal Flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon soda

Mix these dry ingredients into shortening mixture.

Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls about 2 inches apart on baking sheet.

Grease the bottom of a glass. To flatten each cookie, dip glass in sugar and press on dough. For gay cookies, used colored decorators' sugar.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until a light golden brown.

Cool on wire rack.

Makes about 3 dozen cookies.

Funny Teaching Tool

Yesterday I met my friend Val for lunch, and as usual, we solved all the world's problems, and regaled each other with whats newsworthy. Val's always gotten a kick out of my rather odd and humorous ways that I've used in teaching my kids to learn responsibility. Val's all time favorite was brought up in the course of our chatting yesterday, and thinking about it last night, I decided that this particular incident I'd share with everyone on my blog today. This goes back to when our youngest, Danielle, was 8 or 9 years old, (she's 20 now) and getting her to pick up her pig sty of a room was near impossible. I know she's no different than any other kid out there not wanting to do her chores, but this had gotten to the point where she rarely had clean clothes because you couldn't find them in the ankle deep (and deeper) mess on her floor. So after numerous times of trying to get her to at least pick up her mess (yes it was overwhelming for her) I decided to give her a head start. I was beyond frustrated at this point at her lack of caring for hers and others possessions, that I decided to change my plan of attack and do something that would so bumfuzzle her that she would 1) have to laugh, 2) realize that I'm serious, and 3) do something about it. While she was at school one day, I went in her room (tetanus shots were required) and proceeded to pick up ALL her clothes that were scattered everywhere (clean and dirty). I had my tool of destruction firmly in my hand, and then I proceeded to staple gun ALL the clothes to her ceiling. I had underwear, shorts, tops, nighties, pants, socks, you name it, it was hanging from her ceiling. Pleased with myself, I waited for her return from school. When she entered the house I sat quietly, but near enough that I could see her expression when she walked into her room. As she opened her door, her eyes grew wide, and she uttered, "what the..." Now she HAD to take down all the clothes so she'd have something to wear, and YES, I helped her take them down and made sure they were all put away properly. I'm not going to say that this changed her ways, but it did make her realize that I would do something completely unusual to deal with problems with her and her siblings. This story has been repeated numerous times amongst friends and family, and now I've passed it onto you too.

Stir-'n-Drop Oatmeal Cookies

This recipe I do remember as making a very good oatmeal cookie. Again, another recipe from Betty Crocker's New Boys and Girls Cook Book.

Heat oven to 375 degrees

Lightly grease a baking sheet.

Stir together in bowl:
1 cup Gold Medal Flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ginger

Add:
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 cup rolled oats

Mix in thoroughly:
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons milk
1 egg

Stir in:
3/4 cup chopped walnuts, if you like

Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls about 2 inches apart on baking sheet.

Bake about 10 minutes.

Cool on wire rack.

Makes about 2 dozen cookies.

It's McKenna Time

Dan and I had the great pleasure of babysitting McKenna this past Saturday evening. Only problem was the little sweetums had an achy tummy most of the evening. So she was snuggled and loved all the more to help make it all better!

McKenna and Pops BEFORE the tummy started aching.....

Drooling McKenna because she already has two teeth and more waiting to pop.....

Uh oh, tummy's hurting.....

Poor baby, so exhausted from hurting and crying.....

Yippee, Daddy will make it all better now.....

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Here's another Betty Crocker's New Boys and Girls Cook Book recipe I made many times when I was a kid.

Heat over to 375 degrees.

Mix thoroughly in bowl:
1/3 cup soft shortening
1/3 cup butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla

Stir together in another bowl:
1-1/2 cups Gold Medal Flour
1/2 teaspoon soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix these dry ingredients into the shortening mixture.

Thoroughly work in:
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 package (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate pieces (1 cup)

Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheet.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly browned but still soft.

Cool on wire rack.

Makes 4 to 5 dozen cookies.

Blah

Today I am sick.....I do NOT feel witty, or pretty, or bright!

Meat Loaf

I'm getting a kick out of reading all the recipes I made from the Betty Crocker's New Boys and Girls Cook Book. I honestly can't remember if this was a good one (my Mom's recipe is still the best), but wanted to share it with you anyway. I made notations (in parentheses) of changes I made way back when.

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Beat slightly in bowl:
1 egg

Add and mix well:
1-1/2 pounds ground beef or meat loaf mixture
3 slices soft bread, torn into pieces (chopped in blender)
1 cup milk
1/4 cup minced onion
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1-1/4 teaspoons salt
(1/4 cup ketchup)
(Sprinkle of dry mustard)
Place in loaf pan, 9x5x3 inches. Pat evenly to make top smooth.

Bake 1 hours.

Drain off fat. Turn out of pan.

6 to 8 servings.

Brownies

Here's a blast back to the past. This brownie recipe was my absolute favorite while growing up in Bethesda, Maryland. I can't tell you how many times I made this recipe, but if all the stains on the page is any indication then it's a lot. This recipe comes from my very FIRST cookbook I received back in 1965. I'm sure lots of you out there have one sitting on your shelf, "Betty Crocker's New Boys and Girls Cook Book."

Heat oven to 350 degrees

Grease a square pan, 8x8x2 inches.

In bottom part of double boiler, heat about 1 inch water to boiling.

Place in top part of double boiler:
2 squares unsweetened chocolate (2 ounces)
1/3 cup shortening

Set over the boiling water to melt, stirring occasionally.

Remove from heat.

Beat in with rotary egg beater:
1 cup sugar
2 eggs

Stir together in bowl:
3/4 cup Gold Medal Flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix these dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture.

Stir in:
1/2 cup chopped nuts, if you like

Spread batter in prepared pan.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick stuck into center comes out clean. Cool in pan and cut into squares.

Makes about 16 squares.

Air Car

First of all, there's no way my happy ass would be comfortable in this LITTLE (note the emphasis on little) car! Yes, I see all the benefits for a CAV (compressed air vehicle), but it's so.....petite. I'd be scared sh*tless of other drivers not seeing me, and squashing my being. I've got to admit that it's cute as a button.....love the circles.....and the colors are bright and splashy, but it's just so teensy! I'm made of AMAZON stock.....5'10" and NOT shrinking as I age. Sitting in this minuscule CAV, my knees would be in my face. If that's not a blind spot than what is! If you're interested in reading more about the advantages of this vehicle just do a Google search for 'air car'. At $20,000 it's a bit pricey, but for those who are interested (and of a shorter stature) they should be hitting the streets in 2011. If the manufacturer would like to challenge my comfort in this vehicle than bring it on, and I'll be the first person to either give it a thumbs up or down for roominess from this peanut gallery.

TICK TOCK

Don't forget to set your clocks BACK 1 hour when you go to bed tonight.

November Birthdays!!!

Connor Panto - November 10
Eileen McDonnell - November 19
Rosie Thompson - November 23
Kenny Althoff - November 23