tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-229333302024-02-28T06:23:19.401-08:00Little House on the SagebrushSporadic musing from a stay-at-home mom in the semi-suburbs of Northern Nevada.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-43739153667030543492013-01-22T11:20:00.003-08:002013-01-22T11:39:47.470-08:00Gua Bao with Tofu (Taiwanese Folded Bun)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Purchase Gua bao bu</span>ns at your local Asian market. They are refrigerated or frozen and look like fat tacos.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Photo from http://www.eatingclubvancouver.com/2010/03/gua-bao-taiwanese-burger-or-pork-belly.html</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">About 15 minutes before you plan to eat, place the buns in a steamer for approx. 10 minutes unitl fluffy and soft. (It helps prevent sticking if you spray Pam on the steamer and the buns prior to steaming. I use my double boiler steamer which is metal, so foods really can stick to it.)</span></div>
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To assemble your Gua Bao, place two slices of fried tofu with some thinly sliced cucumber, sliced lenthwise scallions, cilantro leaves, some finely chopped jalapeno (without the seeds), and a topping of about a TB of Peanut Sriracha Sauce. <br />
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I served the sandwich with a side of sliced mango topped with a little lime juice ( <a href="http://www.keylimejuice.com/">Nellie & Joe's Famous Key West Lime Juice</a> is the best.)</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><u>M</u><u>arinated Tofu</u></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">8 servings (98kcal each) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">10 oz of firm tofu cut in rectangles</span><br />
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8 servings (98kcal each)</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/4 cup soy sauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1/2 cup plus 1 TB water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 TB molasses</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">2 TB agave </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 tsp Chinese 5 Spice powder</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">dash of sesame oil and 1 tsp peanut oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Slice tofu into about 16 rectangles. In a separate bowl, whisk together all ingreadients for the marinade. Place the tofu int he marinade and cover. Let sit for about an hour. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">After the tofu has marinated, drain the pieces and fry in a pan with sesame and peanut oil until browned on both sides. </span><br />
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<u style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Peanut - Sriracha Sauce</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Approx. 20 servings ( 23kcal each)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14px;">2 TB natural no sugar added peanut butter (smooth)</span><br />
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<span class="spx_inspected spx_global" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient">4TB agave syrup</span></div>
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<span class="spx_inspected spx_global" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient">1/2 tsp - 1 tsp Sriracha sauce (depending upon how hot you want it)</span></div>
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<span class="spx_inspected spx_global" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient">dash of salt</span></div>
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<span class="spx_inspected spx_global" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient">1/2 tsp each of garlic powder and onion powder</span></div>
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<span class="spx_inspected spx_global" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient">1/4 cup of water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Slowly add the water tot he remainder of the ingredients and whisk until smooth. I store mine in a 12 oz. plastic squeeze bottle (you can find them often in the cake decorating section of a craft store). Refrigerate until use. </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-62305940118861136862013-01-19T15:46:00.000-08:002013-01-19T15:46:02.009-08:00Tropical Bubble Smoothie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You can purchase tapioca pearls in various sizes and colors at an Asian market. They also have some that are filled with different flavors. The ones below were different colors (although did not look exactly like the picture on the bag), but tasted like nothing, really. I was told by the lady working at the market though, that you can purchase tapioca pearls with flavorings added. The kids weren't too wild about the flavorless ones, so we'll probably try the flavored next time. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">The bag says to boil until soft and then let sit for 5 minutes. I boiled them for around 15 minutes and then let them sit covered for 5. In the meantime, make a simple syrup - 1:1 ratio sugar to water and heat to dissolve. After the tapioca pearls are soft, drain and rinse in cold water. Drop them in the sugar water solution (cooled). </span></div>
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For the smoothie, we used a mango, orange, guava juice from a carton and blended it with some crushed ice and about 1/4 cup milk per glass. Add a couple of spoonfuls of tapioca pearls with a little of the sugar water, then pour the smoothie mixture over them. </div>
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To complete the bubble smoothie, add a bubble tea straw (we purchased a large package at the Asian market.) These straws are large enough for you to drink the tapioca pearls through.<br />
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<b>* Other ideas for tapioca bubble drinks - </b><br />
- black tea or coffee with creamer and ice blended (traditional version)<br />
- juice with carbonated flavored waters (pineapple juice with lemon or lime?)<br />
- champagne with flavored simple syrup (champagne with some marachino cherry juice) I would think the carbonation would make the tapioca pearls bounce up and down in the drink which would be fun.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-40260392858272256472011-03-16T10:01:00.000-07:002011-03-16T10:01:19.279-07:00Appetizers on St. Patrick's Day<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-RCvVknrD_-M/TYDqjBh5WII/AAAAAAAAAOI/HJ2fstcNjns/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-RCvVknrD_-M/TYDqjBh5WII/AAAAAAAAAOI/HJ2fstcNjns/s400/019.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> There is nothing that says "Irish" more than seafood. Steamed mussels are not only delicious, they are easy to prepare. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-PnvTnXXO_FM/TYDq5GspvwI/AAAAAAAAAOM/_23TpcxleKs/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-PnvTnXXO_FM/TYDq5GspvwI/AAAAAAAAAOM/_23TpcxleKs/s400/016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> Rinse off your mussels first in cold water. Discard any that are open. Melt a half stick of butter in a saucepan over medium heat and saute a clove of minced garlic in it. Add a cup or so of dry white wine and some chopped scallions. Pour in your mussels and steam until open. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--hPxaSovG_Y/TYDr2IOKN8I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/9tBh1I04qUc/s1600/063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--hPxaSovG_Y/TYDr2IOKN8I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/9tBh1I04qUc/s400/063.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> Serve immediately with some lighter Irish beer, like Harp and sliced sourdough bread with a hunk of good Irish white cheddar. For extra color and freshness, serve the mussels on a bed of watercress leaves. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-69057634895391361382011-02-02T17:12:00.000-08:002011-02-05T13:59:26.686-08:00Celebrate the Groundhog!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://circle.stylemepretty.com/wp-content/gallery/ibb/shelleyb/ibb-1296585710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://circle.stylemepretty.com/wp-content/gallery/ibb/shelleyb/ibb-1296585710.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> For this Groundhog Day, how about celebrating that famous Phil (as in, Punxsutawney), by delving into some traditional Pennsylvania Dutch treats. Since the Penn. Dutch love their doughnuts, why not make it a breakfast party! Here are some delicious ideas to get you started. Dutch Baby Pancakes, traditional Dutch Potato Doughnuts, Scrapple, and Warm Apple Cider Punch. Oh, and don't forget the coffee! Black, no sugar please.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</tbody></table><u>Potato Doughnuts Recipe courtesy of Tasteofhome.com</u><br />
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<h2 style="color: #800505; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Ingredients</span></h2><ul class="ingredients" style="color: black; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 26px; margin-left: 12px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">2 cups hot mashed potatoes (with added milk and butter)</span></li>
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<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2-1/2 cups sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 cups buttermilk</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 eggs, lightly beaten</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 tablespoons butter, melted</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 teaspoons baking soda</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 teaspoons baking powder</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 teaspoon salt</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">6-1/2 to 7 cups all-purpose flour</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Oil for deep-fat frying</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" /><b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">FAST FUDGE FROSTING:</b></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">3-3/4 cups confectioners' sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2 cup baking cocoa</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/3 cup boiling water</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/3 cup butter, melted</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
</span></ul><h2 style="color: #800505; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Directions</span></h2><ul class="directions" style="color: black; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 7px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://www.tasteofhome.com/images/RecipeDetail/recipe-listBullet.jpg); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 12px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, sugar, buttermilk and eggs. Stir in the butter, baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg, salt and enough of the flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; pat out to 3/4-in. thickness. Cut with a 2-1/2-in. floured doughnut cutter.</span></li>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://www.tasteofhome.com/images/RecipeDetail/recipe-listBullet.jpg); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 12px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">In an electric skillet, heat 1 in. of oil to 375°. Fry the doughnuts for 2 minutes on each side or until browned. Place on paper towels.</li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://www.tasteofhome.com/images/RecipeDetail/recipe-listBullet.jpg); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 12px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">For frosting, combine the confectioners' sugar, cocoa and salt in a large bowl. Stir in the water, butter and vanilla. Dip tops of warm doughnuts in frosting.<b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"> Yield: </b>4 dozen.</li>
</span></ul><div class="editorNotes" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 12px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;"><span id="ctl00_ctl00_MainContent_MainContent_RecipeLeftColumn1_lblEditorNote" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" /></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=22933330&postID=6905763489539136138" id="ctl00_ctl00_MainContent_MainContent_RecipeLeftColumn1_lnkDownloadPattern" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" target="_blank"></a></span></div><div class="editorNotes" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 12px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;"><strong style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span id="ctl00_ctl00_MainContent_MainContent_RecipeLeftColumn1_lblLighterVersion" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"></span></strong><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=22933330&postID=6905763489539136138" id="ctl00_ctl00_MainContent_MainContent_RecipeLeftColumn1_tstLink" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"></a></span></div><div class="custComments" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 12px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;"><span id="ctl00_ctl00_MainContent_MainContent_RecipeLeftColumn1_lblRecipe" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Delicious Potato Doughnuts published in </span><span id="ctl00_ctl00_MainContent_MainContent_RecipeLeftColumn1_lblSource" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.22em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Taste of Home</span> February/March 1994, p27</span></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Scrapple Recipe (courtesy of Allrecipes.com)</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"></span></div><div class="ingredients" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><h3 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #7a7a7a; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Ingredients</h3><ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 1/2 pounds ground pork sausage</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1 cup yellow cornmeal</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">1/8 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper</li>
</ul></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 20px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 300px;"></div><div class="directions" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><h3 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #7a7a7a; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Directions</h3><ol style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 16px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 16px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">Place sausage in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain and rinse in colander under cold water, breaking sausage into pea sized pieces.</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">Return to skillet along with the condensed milk, and heat over medium until just bubbling. Immediately stir in the cornmeal and pepper and reduce heat to simmer. Continue cooking, 5 minutes total; mush will be stiff.</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">Pack into 8x4 loaf pan, cover and chill overnight. To serve, cut into 1/4 to 1/2 inch slices and saute until golden in nonstick skillet.</span></li>
</ol></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I like to fry the slices in butter until crispy on the edges. Then, serve with warm maple syrup. Delicious!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-19187842338595211222011-01-12T21:03:00.000-08:002011-01-12T21:03:26.298-08:00A Little Romance In preparation for Valentine's Day, here are a couple of items that will inspire the romance in all of us. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.189490146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.189490146.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Lace handkerchief from Linen Whites on Etsy</i><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</tbody></table> What better gift than a personalized handkerchief. Although not necessarily a practical gift, it will be guaranteed to be tucked away in a special place forever. Another romantic notion would be for a lady to spritz it with her favorite perfume and give as a gift to her special someone. <div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.159641717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_570xN.159641717.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Jane Austen word magnet set by Wicked Pen on Etsy</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> Another item to add a little romance to your Valentine's Day would be this set of Jane Austen magnets from Wicked Pen. Make up your own words of love or craft some Regency poetry and place them on the fridge for your loved one to discover when they reach for the creamer for their morning coffee.<br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-5714449821141888672010-12-29T12:49:00.000-08:002010-12-29T12:49:56.611-08:00A Bright New Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://circle.stylemepretty.com/members/shelleyb/inspirations/list/A+Simple+New+Year%27s+Party+20726" style="color: #008c99; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="A Simple New Year's Party"><img alt="A Simple New Year's Party" src="http://circle.stylemepretty.com/wp-content/gallery/ibb/shelleyb/ibb-1293589359.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Instead of the traditional silver and gold for your New Year's party, why not ring in the new year with hopeful bright oranges and enthusiastic reds. Combine these bright colors with clean simple lines of modern-inspired decor, and add a little bit of whimsy to make your party a hit. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.lunabazaar.com/images/wedding-decorations/paper-lanterns-kerry-and-jeremy-480w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.lunabazaar.com/images/wedding-decorations/paper-lanterns-kerry-and-jeremy-480w.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRuZbDILEwI/AAAAAAAAAM4/yfbJuWGbtqQ/s1600/balloonsupply.comorangecrescent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRuZbDILEwI/AAAAAAAAAM4/yfbJuWGbtqQ/s1600/balloonsupply.comorangecrescent.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRuZcoWcsTI/AAAAAAAAAM8/HXK5iJt2xU8/s1600/carlascrations7.com+fabric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRuZcoWcsTI/AAAAAAAAAM8/HXK5iJt2xU8/s1600/carlascrations7.com+fabric.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Decor: Orange and reds. Floral arrangements include marigolds and hot pink chrysanthemums. Hang red paper lanterns from the ceiling (see LunaBazaar.com for supplies) interspersed with bright orange metallic balloons in crescent shapes. Luminarias also can make a beautiful warm statement at centerpeices nestled in betweeen floral arrangements. Alongside the buffet table, place homemade orange peel candles. For table linens, use Indian prints in gold, red and orange. You can find affordable yardage at your local fabric store. Merely hem the edges and you have an instant table runner. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRuYvsh_X5I/AAAAAAAAAM0/45j4UoJ4OlU/s1600/marodesigns+at+etsy.com+party+props.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRuYvsh_X5I/AAAAAAAAAM0/45j4UoJ4OlU/s320/marodesigns+at+etsy.com+party+props.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Favors: I found these great party masks by Maro Designs on Etsy.com. Not only do they make unique favors, they provide a creative opportunity for photos of your guests! </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://cf1.polyvoreimg.com/thing.27304107.s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cf1.polyvoreimg.com/thing.27304107.s.jpg" /></a>Cute party hats can be decorated with pink and orange feathers (see pattern and instructions at cathiefilian.blogspot.com.) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRuYt1GbYDI/AAAAAAAAAMw/Y6pW6rM6ZSc/s1600/etsy.com+jumping+jack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRuYt1GbYDI/AAAAAAAAAMw/Y6pW6rM6ZSc/s320/etsy.com+jumping+jack.jpg" width="320" /></a>Another wonderful idea for a take-home reminder of your party is a small calendar for the new year. I found these clean, simple calendars on Etsy.com by Jumping Jack Designs. Use the brown box they come in, and wrap your own red and orange ribbons around the outside. </div><div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cf2.polyvoreimg.com/thing.27303417.s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cf2.polyvoreimg.com/thing.27303417.s.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Activities: No New Year's party is complete without the iconic count-down to midnight. Toast the new year with pink champagne with a sugared tangerine slice on the edge of the glass. Purchase small individual confetti shooters (Flutterfetti.com) for guests to be let off at midnight.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cf2.polyvoreimg.com/thing.27304173.s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cf2.polyvoreimg.com/thing.27304173.s.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Another fun item is a "cootie-catcher". You can hand these out to your guests and then have them ask the question, "Will I keep my New Year's resolution?" and see what their fortune holds. (See thetoymaker.com for instructions and a downloadable pattern.) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img4.myrecipes.com/i/recipes/su/08/12/tangerine-salad-su-1860176-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img4.myrecipes.com/i/recipes/su/08/12/tangerine-salad-su-1860176-l.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRud7TtUdkI/AAAAAAAAANE/9g7HjGAyXqY/s1600/clementine-cake-ck-l.jpg+cookinglight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TRud7TtUdkI/AAAAAAAAANE/9g7HjGAyXqY/s1600/clementine-cake-ck-l.jpg+cookinglight.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Food: Think simple and healthy. After the over-indulgences of the holidays, most guests are looking forward to flat tummies once again. Help them with their new year's resolutions by providing salads, healthy finger food, fresh fruits, and light desserts. Check out Cooking Light magazine for some great ideas to slim down your favorites. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/tv/martha_stewart_show/show_photos/3051_3100/3072_122807_whitecranberry_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/tv/martha_stewart_show/show_photos/3051_3100/3072_122807_whitecranberry_l.jpg" width="160" /></a><a href="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/ms_living/2009Q4//md104918_1009_csparkler3_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/ms_living/2009Q4//md104918_1009_csparkler3_l.jpg" width="160" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Drinks: Cognac Sparklers and Mandarin Cocktails from marthastewart.com. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-43852864975740014302010-12-14T18:12:00.000-08:002010-12-14T18:12:51.104-08:00Now, What To Give!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/cm/goodhousekeeping/images/PQ/curried-lentil-soup-fb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/cm/goodhousekeeping/images/PQ/curried-lentil-soup-fb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>1. Soup mix. Some people may think this is a cop-out, but for a busy woman with a family, I love the mixes! Anything to save me time is a great gift!<br />
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2. A trip! (Just so long as it's not a cruise to Alaska. I've lived there - yes, you can see whales, but it's too damn cold!)<br />
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3. Baby sitting services. <br />
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4. A foot rub - especially if you are my husband! (I tell him every year, this is what I want - and a real one - not the 5 minute "I'm busy watching football" one.) AND I want to watch HGTV during the foot rub, with a glass of wine in one hand.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://rlv.zcache.com/dinner_date_card-p137410182357304305q0yk_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://rlv.zcache.com/dinner_date_card-p137410182357304305q0yk_400.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>5. A night out to dinner and cocktails, sans children. (I do really love my kids, I swear! Just need a little adult time every now and then!!)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. A new computer!! Preferable a very light portable type that doesn't crash every five minutes, take 20 minutes to load a web site, and have one million cords sticking out of it!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51mRs1Tt+YL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51mRs1Tt+YL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">7. The Family Guy boxed set volume seven. I know....don't tell anyone. I'll just buy it for myself.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8ihB2V6ploTYn3w8e2qgoTxsfF0tlRbR1yhRISAsFKsrfstYaL-VkPD_2q-8EMCSU9Kch-Lr52juTSYxEu_6tfK849a3tEQzSlXhYAhfFqVX12CjQww_6daLsDH4v_UingbA/s320/Charlie-Angel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8ihB2V6ploTYn3w8e2qgoTxsfF0tlRbR1yhRISAsFKsrfstYaL-VkPD_2q-8EMCSU9Kch-Lr52juTSYxEu_6tfK849a3tEQzSlXhYAhfFqVX12CjQww_6daLsDH4v_UingbA/s320/Charlie-Angel.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">8. A custom paint job for my mini-van. I like pink - maybe like the Charlie's Angels van! Sweeeeeet!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.buzzle.com/img/articleImages/354937-48239-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.buzzle.com/img/articleImages/354937-48239-11.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">9. Anything handmade from my children. Love, love, love.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.whenwegetthere.com/tourist_attraction_images/land_tourist_attractions/wine_tasting/wine_tasting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.whenwegetthere.com/tourist_attraction_images/land_tourist_attractions/wine_tasting/wine_tasting.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">10. Wine - always the perfect gift.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-46590862794818869672010-12-08T11:19:00.000-08:002010-12-08T11:22:04.804-08:00Twenty Gifts Not to Give this Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41FgzeQR9gL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41FgzeQR9gL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">1. A Christmas mug - come to think of it - any mug. </div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41sz9btc-VL._AA260_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41sz9btc-VL._AA260_.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">2. Footed one-piece jammies for adults. It's a "no-do".</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41M03F97SML._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41M03F97SML._SL500_AA300_.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">3. Any type of "all in one" tool that is $9.99 at this low discount price for one hour only. Don't dial that number!!</div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mysnuggiestore.com/images/Product/medium/2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.mysnuggiestore.com/images/Product/medium/2015.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="264" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">4. A Snuggie or slankit, or whatever you want to call it.</div></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/315Yvb7HabL._SL246_SX190_CR0,0,190,246_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/315Yvb7HabL._SL246_SX190_CR0,0,190,246_.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">5. Erotic apparel. "Nipple-less" bras are called "nursing bras", and we would buy one if we needed one. And your husband is not going to wear the satin boxer shorts, however cute you think he would be in them.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gavoon.com/item_imagesG/930475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.gavoon.com/item_imagesG/930475.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">6. Anything personalized, to the point that it is kitchy. Really, do you ever see anything like this in someone's office? Do you really thing they are going to display it?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.alibaba.com/img/imagerepos/de/la/delanfa/1262659438571_hz_myalibaba_web4_1848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://img.alibaba.com/img/imagerepos/de/la/delanfa/1262659438571_hz_myalibaba_web4_1848.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">7. Re-gifted items. The recipient can tell that you didn't like it the first time, and now they are the proud owner. If you want to be "eco-friendly" give a back-rub.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.walyou.com/img/geeky-christmas-ornaments-collection-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://www.walyou.com/img/geeky-christmas-ornaments-collection-7.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">8. Christmas ornaments. OK, I'm guilty of this one as well. I do like some ornament gifts, especially if they have my kids' name on it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://s7d4.scene7.com/is/image/SwissColony/000432?$scMain350$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://s7d4.scene7.com/is/image/SwissColony/000432?$scMain350$" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">9. The "cheese product" "meat log" assortment. They neither taste like meat nor cheese, and you end up guiltily serving them to last minute guests because you can't find anything else in the fridge.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"> <a href="http://www.funny-games.biz/images/pictures/1750-romantic-guy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.funny-games.biz/images/pictures/1750-romantic-guy.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">10. And yes, we all know your lovin' should be enough, but come on, go out and spend a little, ya cheapskate!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-44428338677570829202010-12-03T10:20:00.000-08:002010-12-03T10:20:30.887-08:00Holidays with Humor - Party Products Featurette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.naughtybettyinc.com/images/products/cards/cards_grudges_sml.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.naughtybettyinc.com/images/products/cards/cards_grudges_sml.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.naughtybettyinc.com/">Naughty Betty</a> is a retailer on-line that has some great products that will keep your holidays happy! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.naughtybettyinc.com/images/products/napkins/napkins_mingle_sml.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.naughtybettyinc.com/images/products/napkins/napkins_mingle_sml.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She has cocktail nakins, cards, magnets, paper plates, you name it. I think a variety of the napkins would be great at a cocktail party.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-83360926458643595792010-11-30T15:32:00.000-08:002010-11-30T15:32:44.500-08:00Holiday Party Chitchat and the Art of Smalltalk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR0ehIi1hmSvfHMRtQzBI868a2iM7oec5QA-EkRUyAoJChVikYmpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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The holidays are now officially upon us, and doubtless you will be attending at least one party where you need to make "small-talk" with people you don't know, or don't know well. We've all had those moments when you're at a work party or a neighborhood gathering, and you are all of sudden facing the task of starting a conversation. Fear of party chitchat can wreck your enjoyment of the party (it IS a party, after all!), and lead to future avoidance of social situations that can benefit you socially, and career-wise. I have a few simple tricks that can help make these holiday gatherings easier:<br />
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</div>1. When talking to others, don't think of yourself. Focus on the other person. Think of yourself as Merv Griffin (now I'm really aging myself!). Merv was a true conversational connoisseur. He made others open up to him and feel at ease because he was genuinely interested in them. This is very flattering to most people when another person shows an true interest in what they have to say. <br />
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2. Find commonalities. You can find something you have in common with almost anyone. It's true. And when in doubt, discuss the weather, the local highway construction, how they know the host of the party, when did they move to the area, ..... Stay away from obvious topics of possible contention. Example - politics!<br />
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3. If the other person seems uneasy - don't take it personally. It almost always has nothing to do with you. Maybe they are shy. Maybe they are uneasy starting a conversation. Perceive of yourself as someone who is helping them feel more at ease. <br />
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4. Smile. Smile. And smile. People automatically react more positively to individuals who smile. <br />
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5. Be helpful. Offer to get the other person another glass of wine when you get yours. Tell them what hors d'oeuvres<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px;"> </span></span>are especially good. <br />
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6. Talk about yourself, but not too much. Be open, yet be aware of the other person and keep tip #1 in mind.<br />
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7. Remember, starting conversations is like riding a bicycle - the more you do it, the easier and more natural it becomes! <br />
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8. ENJOY YOURSELF! Life is for living and for joy. Don't waste your precious time with unnecessary worries!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-40457210969118469242010-11-23T15:14:00.000-08:002010-11-23T15:15:41.857-08:00Thanksgiving Part 2 - Cocktails - The Flying Pilgrim<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TOxHMQphIfI/AAAAAAAAAJs/__8yAn_eAhg/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TOxHMQphIfI/AAAAAAAAAJs/__8yAn_eAhg/s400/photo.JPG" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> This year I've decided to fore go the traditional wine prior to the Thanksgiving meal, and serve a signature cocktail instead. Signature cocktails are beverages that you specifically concoct for the express point of commemorating a certain event. I've named my signature cocktail, The Flying Pilgrim. The recipe is as follows:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TOxGxNxmKCI/AAAAAAAAAJM/2wltGAuGjPU/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TOxGxNxmKCI/AAAAAAAAAJM/2wltGAuGjPU/s400/photo.JPG" width="295" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">one part beer (I used a Belgium Ale, but you could use anything)</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">one part hard apple cider</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">one ounce Applejack (an old recipe for a liquor that is part whisky part cider)</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TOxHIXrGMeI/AAAAAAAAAJk/6XlQObzh6aY/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TOxHIXrGMeI/AAAAAAAAAJk/6XlQObzh6aY/s400/photo.JPG" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Before pouring the liquids in the glass, dip the rim of a heavy mug or beer glass in some Applejack. Then dip in a saucer of raw sugar. This makes a pretty presentation and adds a little more sweet flavor to the drink to combat the bitterness of the beer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Pour the beer, then the cider, then the shot of Applejack, and serve. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Delicious....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-67289346740980830282010-11-17T19:54:00.000-08:002010-11-17T19:54:15.258-08:00Thanksgiving Part 1 - The Kids' Table<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/web/features/feature3/ft_kidtable11_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/web/features/feature3/ft_kidtable11_xl.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">marthastewart.com<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> Although I should start with hors d'oeuvres</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> and cocktails, I think I shall start my Thanksgiving series on the kids' table. Sometimes this is at the back of your mind, but the addition of a "kids' table" makes all the difference in the world, in my humble opinion. When the kids are entertained and happy, parents are happy, and can thus enjoy their Thanksgiving meal (with a glass of wine.) </span></div></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/6B/thanksgiving-kids-table-party-1109-de.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/6B/thanksgiving-kids-table-party-1109-de.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">countryliving.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table> First things first - don't even try to use your fine linen. Make things simple and fun by using plain brown wrapping paper for a tablecloth. You could also use a more colorful paper tablecloth with Thanksgiving decorations (I found a very cute one at Target..) For place mats, find large sheets of coordinating construction paper. Tuck a set of crayons inside each folded napkin, or provide a metal tub full of crayons for everyone. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.makeandtakes.com/wp-content/uploads/Apple-Turkey-Craft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://www.makeandtakes.com/wp-content/uploads/Apple-Turkey-Craft.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">makeandtakes.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table> As soon as you sit down, while the little ones are having their plates filled with food, it's a good idea to have something they can nibble on in the meantime. I found this cute idea to make edible turkey decorations. Depending on the ages of the children, you could even have all the supplies out ready to go, and they can make their own turkeys. I like this idea versus many on the web because you can use all healthy non-candy items. If you give kids chocolate peanut butter cups prior to dinner, you will never get them to eat their peas!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41pY2Vv8ELL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41pY2Vv8ELL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div><div><br />
<div> For an extra treat, grace each place setting with a paper pilgrim hat from Amazon.com. You can turn it upside down and place the crayons inside, or place the utensils and napkin inside. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51TT3RVDYML._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51TT3RVDYML._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518MR1448YL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518MR1448YL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Books make great favors. Here are a couple of my favorites. Even for toddlers and babies, they make great gifts that their parents can read to them and save over the years.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.185687418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.185687418.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">teachablemoment on Etsy.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table> There is a great book called, "I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie" On Etsy.com I found a felt board set that goes along with the story. (Felt boards are easy to make. Just cover a individual chalk or wipe-off board with felt. Felt pictures can then be attached easily to the board.) Felt boards are a great Thanksgiving activity for little ones, even babies, as well. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qdPXC-9Mgp4/SQaOJXyKbAI/AAAAAAAABSI/COp-Y2mfjV0/s320/IMG_4546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qdPXC-9Mgp4/SQaOJXyKbAI/AAAAAAAABSI/COp-Y2mfjV0/s320/IMG_4546.JPG" /></a></div><div> </div><div> You might want to include some special drinks and desserts for the kids' table. <a href="http://www.drinksmixer.com/cat/201/">Drinksmixer.com</a> has some simple non-alcoholic apple flavored drinks that you can dress up. Around the rim of each glass, dip in lime juice then brown sugar (or even Pop-Rocks, if you dare!). For dessert, kids will delight in their own caramel apple versus the grown-up slice of pumpkin pie. See <a href="http://www.ourbestbites.com/2008/10/caramel-apples.html">Our Best Bites</a> for an easy recipe for gourmet style caramel apples. Attached to each stick, stick with a glue dot a Thanksgiving die cut from your local craft or scrapbook store. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://familyfun.go.com/assets/cms/playtime/tv-bingo-thanksgiving-games-photo-260-FF1103CRAFTA18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://familyfun.go.com/assets/cms/playtime/tv-bingo-thanksgiving-games-photo-260-FF1103CRAFTA18.jpg" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div> For after (or before) dinner fun, check out Family Fun's website <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/playtime/holiday-games/thanksgiving-games/printable-thanksgiving-tv-bingo-707266/">(here)</a> for some printable parade and football bingo games. <br />
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</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-90992558561996094752010-11-10T11:53:00.000-08:002010-11-10T12:18:35.415-08:00Tiki Turkey Anyone?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.charlesphoenix.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/TIKITURKEYDINNER-400x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.charlesphoenix.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/TIKITURKEYDINNER-400x300.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Charles Phoenix's Turkey Tiki Dinner!</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> A big thanks to Charles Phoenix (of CharlesPhoenix.com) for providing a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner inspiration! This isn't your typical gravy, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. It is a Tiki extravaganza! So pull out the cocktail umbrellas and your grass skirt, and check out Charles' instructional video on how to make Thanksgiving this year a memorable one! (Oh, and what better way to use those old Trader Dick's glasses that you collected while in college!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.burningsettlerscabin.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/vtgtikitraderdickpea2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.burningsettlerscabin.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/vtgtikitraderdickpea2.jpg" width="276" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object height="344" style="background-image: url(http://i2.ytimg.com/vi/Y2GZxYIeUsQ/hqdefault.jpg);" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Y2GZxYIeUsQ?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Y2GZxYIeUsQ?fs=1&hl=en_US" width="425" height="344" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><a href="http://www.charlesphoenix.com/category/test-kitchen/">Charles Phoenix Test Kitchen</a></b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.burningsettlerscabin.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/TraderDicksBar-lo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.burningsettlerscabin.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/TraderDicksBar-lo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ahhhh....memories.</td></tr>
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And now for a Flaming Zombie. </div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 21px;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">The Zombie Ingredients</strong><br />
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"></strong>1/2 oz light rum<br />
1 1/2 oz golden rum<br />
1 oz dark rum<br />
1/2 oz Bacardi 151 rum<br />
1 tsp orange juice<br />
1 tsp sour mix<br />
1 oz lime juice<br />
1 tsp fine sugar</div><div style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Pour all ingredients (except the Bacardi 151) into your favorite ice-filled <a href="http://thetikibarshop.com/shop/tiki-bar-mug/Tiki-Mugs" style="color: #3c78a7; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_self" title="Tiki Bar Mugs">tiki mug</a> or collins glass. Pour the 151 on top of the cocktail with a spoon, letting it rest on top. Garnish with mint leaf or fruit. For added fun and singed eyebrows, simply add an open flame to the above recipe and stand back.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: left;">Wouldn't the Pilgrims be jealous!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-68723968317294963082010-11-04T21:29:00.000-07:002010-11-04T21:29:29.392-07:00Learning How to Not Sweat the Small Stuff It's taken me over 40 years, but I think that I've finally learned how to not sweat the small stuff. By small stuff I mean, dirty dishes in the sink, the baby has a runny nose, the pooch that will never go away after two pregnancies, etc. This is not to say that I am neurotic-free. Oh, I have a plethora of neuroticisms that could fill a small college stadium, BUT they will longer will fill the state of Alaska. Maybe it's having children, maybe it's growing older, maybe it's the addiction to box wine, maybe it's having survived as many Republican administrations as I did - who knows. All I know is that I'm reaping the benefit now. And really, what does constant fretting over fraying towels give us? Concentrate on the things that mean something to you. And yes, of course, I mean your loved ones. But sometimes those loved ones can drive you crazy. AND THAT'S OK! Go take a half an hour and work on that beloved paint by numbers puppy painting that you've been dying to do. (Just don't give it as a Christmas gift when you're finished.) Make a total fool of yourself, don the baggy ski pants and the Ed Hardy stocking cap, and snowboard, even if it's just for a precious 2 hours or so. Or you can do like me and indulge in over-emotional cooking competitions on Bravo and then try to emulate Parisian pastry puffs with rosemary and a fleur-de-sel crust. Hell, even if no one eats it, it felt good making it. Not to get too serious on you, but life really is too short. And you know what, your kids will thank you for it. Quite honestly, they are not going to be on the psychiatrist's couch whining about how you didn't feed them a perfect combination of the four food groups at every meal. They'll be paying 200 bucks a week for therapy because you drove them crazy with your constant obsessions over wrinkled chinos, not being 2 minutes late for soccer practice, and making sure that there was not a speck of food on the carpet. And it's not only a life-long gift to your children, it's a gift to yourself. Turn off that damn NBC news and tell your local anchor to shove it when they go on and on about the dangers of too much Splenda or the link between caffeine and an unusual love for poultry. Do like I do and listen to something that makes you laugh. And don't sweat the small stuff.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-29183212364113250532010-11-01T12:10:00.000-07:002010-11-01T12:14:30.867-07:00Election Night Dinner Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TM8QiyCl7iI/AAAAAAAAAIY/VzhFIJ0JqB4/s1600/140+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TM8QiyCl7iI/AAAAAAAAAIY/VzhFIJ0JqB4/s320/140+(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/03presr2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/03presr2.jpg" width="291" /></a></div> While you have the TV tuned to the on-going election results this Tuesday night, why not invite some close friends and neighbors over to celebrate. Chances are the cool crisp air of autumn has arrived, and what better to warm you up (and possibly comfort yourself over potential candidate losses), than to serve up a tasty down home pot roast with potatoes, carrots, and onion. <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/recipefinder/old-fashioned-pot-roast-3239?click=recipe_sr">County Living Magazine</a> has a great recipe for Old-Fashioned Pot Roast which can be prepared in the pressure cooker within an hour. For your pot roast, search for ingredients that are from sustainable U.S. family farms and ranches. What a better way to show your patriotism and support for our country!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.samueladams.com/_assets/beers/bottles/large/198345c3-60d1-4458-bba5-6679631c82c8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.samueladams.com/_assets/beers/bottles/large/198345c3-60d1-4458-bba5-6679631c82c8.jpg" width="165" /></a></div> For dessert, apple pie, of course. And for a beverage, who can go wrong with beer - try Samuel Adams. Their Honey Porter goes well with pot roast.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.platesandnapkins.com/media/catalog/product/cache/2/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/2/1/21208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.platesandnapkins.com/media/catalog/product/cache/2/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/2/1/21208.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> For some colorful disposable dinner ware, try <a href="http://www.platesandnapkins.com/">Plates and Napkins</a> on-line. I love the cute donkey and elephant napkins. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Speaking of party mascots, <a href="http://www.fantes.com/">Fantes</a> has patriotic cookie cutters in the shapes of donkeys and elephants for some red, white and blue treats. For a twist, make the cookies out of gingerbread and leave them un-iced. </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/vermontcountrystore/f55037_set?&wid=135&hei=182" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/vermontcountrystore/f55037_set?&wid=135&hei=182" /></a><a href="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/vermontcountrystore/f53539_set?&wid=135&hei=182" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/vermontcountrystore/f53539_set?&wid=135&hei=182" /></a></div><br />
When carrying out an "all-American" theme, think beyond just the food. There are several places on-line you can turn to for American made decor items that will fit the bill. <a href="http://www.vermontcountrystore.com/">The Vermont County Store</a> offers some very affordable reproduction glassware in patriotic colors. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.187451902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_570xN.187451902.jpg" width="206" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60204419/i-pledge-allegience-to-the-flag-shabby?ref=sr_gallery_7&ga_search_query=patriotic&ga_search_type=&ga_page=2&order=&includes[0]=tags&includes[1]=title">Primitive sign from Tinkers Cottage on Etsy</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table> Shop Etsy for some unique items that can be used in centerpieces or propped up on a buffet table next to a jar of flowers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/vermontcountrystore/f40494_set?&wid=135&hei=182" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/vermontcountrystore/f40494_set?&wid=135&hei=182" /></a></div><div> To add a pleasant homey scent to the air (especially if you don't have a wood burning fireplace), try Maine balsam fir incense sticks from <a href="http://www.vermontcountrystore.com/">The Vermont Country Store</a>. <br />
<div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.peterborobasket.com/images/Product/medium/B-122-STARFAB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://www.peterborobasket.com/images/Product/medium/B-122-STARFAB.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="http://www.peterborobasket.com/default.aspx">Peterboro Baskets</a> offers some wonderful products with a patriotic flair. Not only can you change out the fabrics in the baskets, you can purchase clear plastic liners that can hold appetizers, cookies, you name it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sturbridgeyankee.com/images/250/91351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.sturbridgeyankee.com/images/250/91351.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="http://www.sturbridgeyankee.com/">The Sturbridge Yankee Workshop</a> has some great products for home decor. Don't just hang buntings outdoors. They can be attached to the edge of tablecloths or draped over buffets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fatbraintoys.com/images/products/detail/KX138/00972m7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://www.fatbraintoys.com/images/products/detail/KX138/00972m7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> For another centerpiece idea, why not break out the Lincoln Logs? Your kids can help you build the perfect log cabin.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 6px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 6px; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.187507919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.187507919.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a></div></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/psychedelictara?ref=pr_profile">Psychedelictara</a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/psychedelictara?ref=pr_profile"> on Etsy</a></div><div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/thedogcoatlady?ref=ls_profile">The Dog Coat Lady on Etsy</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Last of all, remember that every good host and hostess is polite and diplomatic. If you have guests of all political persuasions, remember to stress the commonalities of beliefs and the celebration of our right to vote!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-54350496431409642072010-10-28T08:49:00.000-07:002010-10-28T08:56:20.729-07:00Halloween Decor - Part 2 - found treasures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TMmdB3nHddI/AAAAAAAAAIM/wr7L9sCt6GQ/s1600/DSCN0471_edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TMmdB3nHddI/AAAAAAAAAIM/wr7L9sCt6GQ/s320/DSCN0471_edited.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> When it comes to holiday decorations, found items are always best. Not only can they be unique, they are free (and you are re-purposing old "junk" that otherwise would sit in your cupboards!) Here are a few items I found around the house and re-purposed for a Halloween candy display.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> First of all, I covered the table with a piece of black calico I had left over from quilting. I then lay an antique sheer curtain over the top. If it is a little stained, so much the better! To dispense the candy corn, I used an antique chick feeder. These you can find at antique stores, and can be quite handy to dispense M&Ms as well. For Easter, I purchase pastel M&Ms and display them this way. You can dress them up with string or ribbon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Old canning jars work well to hold lollipops, licorice, chocolate dipped pretzel sticks, you name it. Look for the ones made with blue glass. They look beautiful in windows. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div> The other day I found a vintage wooden-handled scoop. I knew I wanted to use it somehow. Voila! A mini-candy bar scoop. For additional containers, I pulled out some of my old wooden bowls (look for them at garage sales), and a cut glass dishes handed down from my grandmother. Mini cupcake liners hold candy corn neatly. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TMmXeHrrbmI/AAAAAAAAAH4/la8z-WpRYFQ/s1600/DSCN0470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TMmXeHrrbmI/AAAAAAAAAH4/la8z-WpRYFQ/s320/DSCN0470.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
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</div><div> An easy way to dress up a plain glass cake stand (purchased at Target), is to attach ruffled ribbon to the edge. I used wired ribbon - just pull the wire taut on one side until it ruffles and knot the wire at either end to prevent it from unraveling. Then stick the ribbon to the edge of the stand with glue dots. When you are finished using the cake stand, you can easily take off the glue dots. </div><div><br />
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</div><div> Treat bags were made with plain brown paper lunch bags trimmed at the top. I lightly went over bag with a tea stain ink pad and sprayed the surface with a sparkle liquid you can purchase in scrapbook stores. At the top, I attached these wonderfully vintage-looking tags (purchased on Etsy) with some raffia to the top. So much better the the typical gaudy-colored cellophane, and about the same price. </div><div><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-52300606069691191522010-10-24T17:40:00.000-07:002010-10-24T17:40:16.122-07:00Halloween Decor - Lighting<div style="text-align: left;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Country Living Magazine</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;"> The right type of lighting can make even the most simple decoration spring to life. Here's a few ideas to light your home for a subtle, yet spooky effect:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://houseofantiquehardware.com/core/media/media.nl?id=46793&c=411534&h=33406c8ab8fb01db1b4d" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://houseofantiquehardware.com/core/media/media.nl?id=46793&c=411534&h=33406c8ab8fb01db1b4d" width="145" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">House of Antique Hardware</td></tr>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">* Use flicker bulbs in place of regular candelabra bulbs in your chandelier or small accent lamps. The <a href="http://houseofantiquehardware.com/s.nl?sc=1&whence=&partner=gpc">House of Antique Hardware</a> has several options available. They even have colonial style sconces in which you could place flicker bulbs for the ultimate "Salem Witch Trial" ambiance. You can even replace regular bulbs in faux jack-o-lanterns to look like they are illuminated with candle light. </div><div> </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.hayneedle.com/mgen/digimarc.ms?img=master:CBKH741.jpg&h=800&w=800" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.hayneedle.com/mgen/digimarc.ms?img=master:CBKH741.jpg&h=800&w=800" width="400" /></a></div><div>* Use electric or candle powered candelabras on your side and buffet tables to light the way. Stretch fake cobwebs and add a couple of plastic insects for effect. </div><div><br />
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* Scented candles help infuse the air with the scent of a crisp autumn day. Try Macintosh Apple or Pumpkin Pie from Yankee Candle. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img4.sunset.com/i/2001/10/halloween-tree-m.jpg?300:300" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://img4.sunset.com/i/2001/10/halloween-tree-m.jpg?300:300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset Magazine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>* Strings of small white or orange battery powered lights can be used to add diminsion and softness to faux flower arrangements, stacks of pumpkins, bundles of cornstalks, or bare branches. The battery pack can be easily hidden, and you can buy them in varied lengths to suit your purpose. (These are handy to keep out year-round to illunimate every holidy decoration, not just Halloween and Christmas.)<br />
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* Use mirrors and glass to reflect candle light. Place dripping candlelabras on top of antique mirrors used as trays. Arrange strings of twinkle lights around groupings of clear glass apothocary jars filled with fake insects, candy corn, or faux cobwebs. The reflected light will double the effect, and is especially useful if lighting is at a premium.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.antiquelampsupply.com/">http://www.antiquelampsupply.com</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.antiquelampsupply.com/">http://www.antiquelampsupply.com</a></td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">* Try antique kerosene lamps indoors and out. I like the fact that you can adjust the strength of the flame, and they are dripless. The black hanging lantern above would look great attached to tree limbs outdoors or propped in front of a faux gravestone. They would also come in handy if you were to have a country or ranch themed party. Antique lanterns with glass chimneys can be used to illuminate a dining room or buffet table for any occasion, as well.</div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-28366144194817042892010-10-24T14:50:00.000-07:002010-10-24T14:50:52.446-07:00Jack of the Lantern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://beekman1802.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/IMG_7014-412x550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://beekman1802.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/IMG_7014-412x550.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
Thought I would post a link for a wonderful idea from Beekman Farms. Carving parsnips! They look wonderfully rustic and spooky. I think I'll try the same idea with turnips. Check out the Beekman Farms website. <a href="http://beekman1802.com/">http://beekman1802.com</a><br />
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<a href="http://beekman1802.com/general/jack-of-the-lantern.html">Jack of the Lantern from Beekman Farms</a><br />
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<div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 12pt;">"According to Irish lore, Stingy Jack was a trickster so talented that he even fooled the devil.</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 12pt;">When the devil came to claim Jack’s soul, Jack asked the devil to climb a tree and pick him an apple to serve as his last meal on earth. While the devil was up the tree, Jack encircled the trunk with crosses and would not allow the devil to exit without first promising to not carry him to hell.</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 12pt;">When Jack died, St. Peter, of course, turned him away from heaven’s gates. The devil kept his word and instead of taking him to the underworld sent Jack off to roam the earth for eternity with only a glowing coal ember placed inside a carved-out turnip to light his way. He became known as Jack of the Lantern.</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Throughout Europe, people carved their own lanterns out of turnips, potatoes and beets to keep Jack away on All Hallow’s Eve when the dead walk among us. It wasn’t until 19th century immigrants encountered pumpkins in America that the familiar orange orbs became a Halloween tradition.</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 12pt;">But at Beekman 1802, we can find more things in the heirloom vegetable garden to an inspire us than a pumpkin.</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 12pt;">This year, we chose to work with the parsnip to make an entire collection of ghostly ghouls."</div><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-167687381048802902010-10-21T17:25:00.000-07:002010-10-21T17:28:48.422-07:00The Legend of Sleepy Hollow<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4c/The_Headless_Horseman_Pursuing_Ichabod_Crane.jpg/800px-The_Headless_Horseman_Pursuing_Ichabod_Crane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4c/The_Headless_Horseman_Pursuing_Ichabod_Crane.jpg/800px-The_Headless_Horseman_Pursuing_Ichabod_Crane.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><i>The Headless Horseman Pursuing Ichabod Crane</i>. oil, 26 7/8 x 33 7/8 in., <a class="extiw" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Quidor" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #3366bb; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" title="en:John Quidor">John Quidor</a> (1801-1881) </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table> One of my favorite stories, and especially at this time of year, is <i>The Legend of Sleepy Hollow</i> by Washington Irving. First published in The Sketch Book in 1820, it is based upon a German folktale that takes place in Post-Revolutionary Dutch New York. Although I have never visited Hudson Valley, I long to go. For the time being, I must re-create this atmosphere in decoration. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.eddieross.com/.a/6a00e55391c48e88330120a675886d970c-450wi" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.eddieross.com/.a/6a00e55391c48e88330120a675886d970c-450wi" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halloween Block Party by Eddie Ross</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Eddie Ross, decorator extraordinaire, was featured on HGTV last year for their Halloween Block Party. On that show, he took over the party decor of one house, and changed it into an ode to <i>Sleepy Hollow</i>. I love what he did, and aspire to duplicate it in my own home! He even had the homeowners dress in colonial attire! (Now if I could just get my husband to wear knee socks!) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.eddieross.com/.a/6a00e55391c48e88330120a61b54a6970b-450wi" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.eddieross.com/.a/6a00e55391c48e88330120a61b54a6970b-450wi" width="240" /></a></div><div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.histarch.uiuc.edu/plymouth/images/cherub1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://www.histarch.uiuc.edu/plymouth/images/cherub1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Some things you could do to imitate a Colonial Halloween atmosphere - lots of candles (or flame-less candles if you are worried about little hands), a true to character graveyard (not gory, look up pictures of gravestones dating back to the 1700's), use natural additions for decoration as much as possible (think twigs, fruit, vegetable, leaves), use pewter or pewter-like serving dishes, simple non-dyed linen works well for table coverings., light a fire in the fireplace; the smell of wood smoke evokes a home-spun atmosphere, , hay bales make great seating options, and last of all, don't forget to use antique copies of the <i>The Legend of Sleepy Hollow </i>to adorn your mantel and table. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b6/TheSketchbookTitlePage.jpg/200px-TheSketchbookTitlePage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b6/TheSketchbookTitlePage.jpg/200px-TheSketchbookTitlePage.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />
Here is an authentic Colonial Dutch recipe from <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><b><i>Food, Drink, and Celebrations of the Hudson Valley Dutch. by </i></b></span><a href="http://www.peterrose.com/">Peter G. Rose</a> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-size: large;">The History Press, 2009 :</span><br />
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<div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><b>Ginger beer</b></div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">1 cup minced fresh ginger (about 1/2 pound)</div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">1 quart boiling water </div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">Juice of 2 lemons</div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">3-1/2 pineapple juice</div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">Generous dash of freshly grated nutmeg</div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">Sugar to taste</div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">In a quart jar combine ginger and water and steep for 3 hours. Strain liquid into a large pitcher; add the lemon and pineapple juice. Stir in the nutmeg. Taste and add sugar as necessary. Serve over ice cubes.</div><div style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">The ginger beer is also very good as a cocktail: for every 8 ounces of ginger beer add 1-1/2 ounces of light rum. </div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-20342024012043371872010-10-17T18:48:00.000-07:002010-10-17T18:51:07.286-07:00A Movie to Get You Ready for Halloween!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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Time for an old-fashioned ghostly tale. One of my favorite scary movies is <u>The Others</u>. It is a classic "haunted house" movie, without any of the gore that typically permeates modern horror films. The movie keeps you guessing until the very end, when there is a surprising twist. See if you can guess what it is before the finale of the film!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-50499538237177679812010-10-15T09:39:00.000-07:002010-10-15T10:09:08.472-07:00Time to Start the Halloween Countdown! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> There are now officially 16 more days until Halloween. And here in the Little House, we are amping up for our favorite holiday. Every day, I will be posting a new recipe, decorating idea, craft idea or book to share for all you little ghosts and goblins out there. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Today's post features some cute ideas for Halloween party favors.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://socialcouture.typepad.com/.a/6a00e00998c5c888330133f51323e4970b-350wi" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" src="http://socialcouture.typepad.com/.a/6a00e00998c5c888330133f51323e4970b-350wi" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://socialcouture.typepad.com/tabletalk/2010/10/owl-cookies.html#more"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Owl cookies by Social Couture the Blog</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><br />
<div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Edible favors are always an easy gift to pull-off. Not only can you be cost-efficient (one large cookie wrapped beautifully per person = low-cost), you can hand out a favor that will be appreciated by all ages.</span></span><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> Here's a recipe for some cute owl cookies from Social Couture the Blog. I love the simplicity of the design and the fact that they are not overwhelmed with frosting and candy.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 19px;"><div class="entry-body" style="clear: both;"><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Prep and Cook Time: 1 1/2 hours, plus at least 45 minutes to chill. Notes: Trace an owl-shaped pattern (for a template, see </span></span></i><a href="http://www.sunset.com/owl" style="color: #003366; text-decoration: none;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">www.sunset.com/owl</span></span></i></a><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">) on heavy paper or lightweight cardboard, or use cookie cutters in any shape. You can make the cookies up to 2 days ahead; store airtight.</span></span></i></div></div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=22933330&postID=5049953823717767981" id="more" style="text-decoration: none;"></a></span></span></i><div class="entry-more" style="clear: both;"><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Yield: Makes about 33 cookies (serving size: 1 cookie)</span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><strong><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Ingredients:</span></span></i></strong><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
1 1/3 cups butter, at room temperature<br />
3/4 cup granulated sugar<br />
3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar<br />
2 large egg<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla<br />
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
Icing (recipe follows)<br />
Candy corn<br />
Miniature chocolate chips</span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><strong><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Preparation:</span></span></i></strong><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
1. Preheat oven to 350° (325° if using convection heat).</span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">2. In a bowl, with a mixer on medium speed, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until blended, then beat on high speed until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla and beat until well blended. Add flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; beat on low speed until combined, then on medium speed until well blended. Divide dough into three portions.</span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">3. Place each portion between two sheets of floured plastic wrap. Roll dough evenly into flat rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Stack rounds on a baking sheet and chill until firm, at least 45 minutes, or up to 2 days.</span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">4. Working with one portion of dough at a time (keep remaining chilled), peel off top sheet of plastic wrap. Set floured pattern (see notes) on dough and cut around edges. Or with floured round cookie cutters (3-in. diameter), cut out cookies, placing cutters as close together as possible. Transfer to cooking parchment-lined or ungreased baking sheets, placing cookies about 1 inch apart. Repeat with remaining dough rounds. Gather up scraps and press together into a ball. If dough is still cold, roll and cut out remaining cookies. If it's soft and sticky, repeat step 3.</span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">5. Bake cookies until firm to touch and slightly darker brown around edges, 8 or 9 minutes; if baking more than one sheet at a time in one oven, switch positions halfway through baking. Slide parchment with cookies off sheets onto racks or counter to cool, then remove from parchment. Or cool on pans about 1 minute and then transfer to racks to cool completely. If not using cooking parchment, wipe off baking sheets after each batch. Cool sheets before filling with more cookies.</span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">6. Spread icing over cookies and decorate with candies, using candy corn for a beak and chocolate chips for eyes. Let stand until icing is firm, about 5 minutes.</span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Icing: In a small bowl, stir together 2 cups powdered sugar and just enough milk (about 3 tablespoons) to make a spreadable icing. If desired, tint with food coloring. If icing thickens as it stands, stir in a few more drops of milk.</span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Although cookies are a hit for young and old, if you are hosting a more adult party, you might want to offer a more adult favor. One idea would be to decorate some inexpensive wine glasses with paint pens and stick-on rhinestones. You can add a little black silk ribbon tied around the stem with a tag that has your guest's name. (You could also personalize each glass with the person's name in paint as part of the decoration.) Not only could you serve your guests a drink in their favor glasses, you could also place them on a table with a wrapped pumpkin scented votive in each. I love the candles from Yankee Candle, and they even have scented black candles this time of year.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.180810738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.180810738.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="290" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Here are some classy personalized wine charms you can purchase on Etsy from </span></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/yayadiyclub?ref=seller_info"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">YaYa DIY Club</span></span></a><br />
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</tbody></table></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">For my Halloween parties, I always feature a pumpkin carving activity. Not only will the wheelbarrow full of pumpkins you purchase for the event make a great party decoration, they can later, after carved, be taken home as a party favor that can then decorate your guests' homes.</span></span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLiBJEvbquI/AAAAAAAAAHk/aOeUqAWzTRA/s1600/cat-dog-carving-pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="220" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLiBJEvbquI/AAAAAAAAAHk/aOeUqAWzTRA/s320/cat-dog-carving-pumpkin.jpg" width="320" /></span></span></a></div></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I've found that adults love carving pumpkins just as much as children do. And it is an easy activity that can bring all party-goers together, even if they don't know one another. Just make sure to provide a large table covered with a plastic tablecloth, lots of newspapers, plastic bags for trash, and several sets of carving implements. (The plastic "kid-safe" ones are best if children are present.) I also make sure to set out a basket of small tea lights or votives and matches. And don't forget the pictures afterward!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-57058484170109146262010-10-11T16:24:00.000-07:002010-10-11T16:25:53.437-07:00Tricking and Treating With Martha on Hallmark Channel - The Martha Stewart Blog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SALu4U2s9nU/TKzn4HBJaBI/AAAAAAABFJ4/JefqiqwnWHE/IMG_6008.JPG?imgmax=512" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SALu4U2s9nU/TKzn4HBJaBI/AAAAAAABFJ4/JefqiqwnWHE/IMG_6008.JPG?imgmax=512" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.themarthablog.com/2010/10/tricking-and-treating-with-martha-on-hallmark-channel.html">Tricking and Treating With Martha on Hallmark Channel - The Martha Stewart Blog</a><br />
<div>You have to love Martha. And she's back for another Halloween with Brendan Fraser, one of my favorites.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-63811478666983290872010-10-11T15:52:00.000-07:002010-10-11T15:52:10.483-07:00Apple Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOMIkY9GnI/AAAAAAAAAHU/iZitiFEtH98/s1600/DSCN0405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOMIkY9GnI/AAAAAAAAAHU/iZitiFEtH98/s400/DSCN0405.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Apple season is here. Here are a couple of recipes to get you started on filling your home with the aroma of that lovely Fall fruit. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOMi7zn8iI/AAAAAAAAAHg/OQSf5IyCJZ0/s1600/DSCN0418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOMi7zn8iI/AAAAAAAAAHg/OQSf5IyCJZ0/s400/DSCN0418.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51rFF09fdpL._SS500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51rFF09fdpL._SS500_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> The first I found in a book titled <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kentucky-Bourbon-Cookbook-Albert-Schmid/dp/0813125790/ref=sr_1_8?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1286835674&sr=1-8">The Kentucky Bourbon Cookbook by Albert Schmid</a>. Although I won't re-post the recipe here, all you need to do is follow your basic apple pie recipe, but with the following tricks: soak the apple slices in about 1/2 cup bourbon for about an hour, then saute the apple slices in butter (about a stick) till somewhat soft, add maple syrup, sugar, and spices to the pan and cook long enough to melt the sugar. Pour the mixture into your pie crust and cover with a crust in a lattice design. I used the excess apple syrup from the pan to brush on the top and sprinkle with a little fine baking sugar. Although my pastry skills are not perfected to picture worthy status, the pie tasted delicious. Wonderful with a little scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOMTzJpmoI/AAAAAAAAAHY/rKAxMqgOTaE/s1600/DSCN0406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOMTzJpmoI/AAAAAAAAAHY/rKAxMqgOTaE/s320/DSCN0406.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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</tbody></table><div> The second recipe is so simple, yet the end result is fantastic. And it is guaranteed to spice up your home with the aroma of Fall. Homemade applesauce takes about 40 minutes or so to make. You can use any kind of apple, depending upon how tart or sweet you like your applesauce. I was making some for my 2 year old, so I choose Fujis for their sweetness. </div><div> Cut up your apples in somewhat chunks. Place in a saucepan with apple cider (about halfway up the pile of apples.) Simmer until soft, then add maple syrup, brown sugar, nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, and a little cloves. Simmer for about 10 more minutes. At this point you should be able to mash the apples with a potato masher. I like the sauce fairly smooth, so I used a handheld blender. </div><div> Applesauce I think is best warm. It is also a great condiment on pork chops or roasted chicken. </div><div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOMaoY-hdI/AAAAAAAAAHc/C-ZXGxuUpyM/s1600/DSCN0417_edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOMaoY-hdI/AAAAAAAAAHc/C-ZXGxuUpyM/s320/DSCN0417_edited.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-51667931897634994402010-10-11T15:11:00.000-07:002010-10-11T15:12:21.336-07:00September Back-to-School Decorating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOHwYCYewI/AAAAAAAAAHM/ul23MeMsCDM/s1600/DSCN0424_edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOHwYCYewI/AAAAAAAAAHM/ul23MeMsCDM/s400/DSCN0424_edited.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Although this is a little late (hello October), I just had to include my post on decorating your house for back-to-school. September is long awaited in my house. School starts again, Temperatures drop from the blazing 90's to the comfortable 70's. The crisp fall air turns the leaves a gold color, and the aroma of cinnamon baked apples fills the kitchen. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOJwuoBynI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/AiPTVaHmsIA/s1600/DSCN0420_edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TLOJwuoBynI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/AiPTVaHmsIA/s200/DSCN0420_edited.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div> When thinking of decorating your house for September, scour your pantry and your children's bedrooms for old school memorabilia, such as, old metal lunch pails, vintage school texts, pencils, chalkboards, blocks, rulers... You can also include, as I have done here, some fake apples, fake pumpkins, silk leaf garlands, and small illuminated houses (which you do not have to spend a fortune on - check out Michael's and Target.) Vintage readers can be found easily and affordably on E-Bay or in antique stores (also, keep an eye out for vintage rulers and lunch pails.) If you are lucky enough to live where there are plenty of golden leafy branches, cut a few and use them in your decor.<br />
With a little imagination, by the first week of September, you can have a welcoming and colorful Autumn home. Add a little cinnamon baked apples to the oven, and the kids won't be able to wait till they get home.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22933330.post-66176190534811731602010-10-06T16:00:00.000-07:002010-10-06T16:08:36.464-07:00TAILGATING WITH ALL THE TRIMMING<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TKzhgvqpIaI/AAAAAAAAAHA/Nztf_RKRiJg/s1600/tailgating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="399" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PBQ_q5u2sCA/TKzhgvqpIaI/AAAAAAAAAHA/Nztf_RKRiJg/s400/tailgating.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div> It's here, tailgating season. And to make your tailgating experience more enjoyable than a hassle, here are some useful links. <br />
For a good rundown of tailgating 101, see <a href="http://www.tailgating.com/">www.tailgating.com</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"> . Their list includes the basics you will need and things not to forget (ex. extra ice and plastic garbage bags.) I would add to the list a battery powered stereo and fold-out tables and chairs. Of course, if you want to go all out, you might want to invest in a "Cruzin Cooler", a la Ellen. They come in all colors, and you could even personalize it with your home team's mascot.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cruzincooler.com/main%20art/ellen_coolerride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.cruzincooler.com/main%20art/ellen_coolerride.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
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</td></tr>
</tbody></table> A good resource for tailgating supplies featuring your home school's colors and mascot, see h<a href="http://www.shopncaasports.com/pages/NCAA_Tailgate">ttp://www.shopncaasports.com/pages/NCAA_Tailgate</a>. They have everything from wine glasses to banners, from can coolers to decals.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.footballfanatics.com/FFImage/thumb.aspx?i=/productImages/_254000/FF_254745_xl.jpg&w=180" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.footballfanatics.com/FFImage/thumb.aspx?i=/productImages/_254000/FF_254745_xl.jpg&w=180" width="200" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://images.footballfanatics.com/FFImage/thumb.aspx?i=/productImages/_351000/FF_351576_xl.jpg&w=180" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.footballfanatics.com/FFImage/thumb.aspx?i=/productImages/_351000/FF_351576_xl.jpg&w=180" width="200" /></a> Although it might be a little more expensive initially, if you are a long-time tailgater, you might want to invest in a set of unbreakable cups and plates featuring your teams colors. There is less waste, and they look a little better than plastic or paper. (If you are looking for tailgating accessories featuring your favorite NFL team, take a look at h<a href="http://store.bowlbound.com/index.html">http://store.bowlbound.com</a>.)</div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk29l0PsiSWzJLAfXeNdkigpUqXNY99o1z83jX4AVlFG6_BU69obqm58zSVDEPY2pFIdWCXFhFdtt6LhjVSOn3M8617-T_pghlO64fPvLLtuViHF-UqOcqszIRKjk0luwySseHRQ/s640/football_inspireboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk29l0PsiSWzJLAfXeNdkigpUqXNY99o1z83jX4AVlFG6_BU69obqm58zSVDEPY2pFIdWCXFhFdtt6LhjVSOn3M8617-T_pghlO64fPvLLtuViHF-UqOcqszIRKjk0luwySseHRQ/s640/football_inspireboard.jpg" width="324" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of <a href="http://bnute.blogspot.com/2010/09/big-game-tailgate-or-football-party.html">B. Nute Productions Party Place</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table> Now we come to my favorite part of tailgating - the decorations and the food! To make your decor just a little different, focus on vintage football items. Plaid wool throws in your team's colors, old footballs and helmets found in the garage, picnic baskets to hold bags of chips and wrapped cookies, or vintage pennants hung along the edge of your canopy. If you want to really make your tailgate a classy event, forgo all plastic and bring in the china and glassware. (And don't forget the cloth napkins!) </div><div><div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thedeenbros.com/images/uploads/book1pic32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://thedeenbros.com/images/uploads/book1pic32.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> As for food, The Deen Brothers, have some great recipe ideas for tailgating (they ARE from the South, y'all.) Some of my favorites are <a href="http://thedeenbros.com/index.php/recipes/recipe_detail/lime-marinated_chicken_wings_with_avocado_dip/">Lime Marinated Chicken Wings with Avocado Dip</a> , <a href="http://thedeenbros.com/index.php/recipes/recipe_detail/kickoff_chili_cheese_dip/">Kickoff Chili Cheese Dip</a>, and <a href="http://thedeenbros.com/index.php/recipes/recipe_detail/midwestern-style_beer_brats/">Midwestern Style Beer Brats</a>. Don't forget to check out Guy Fieri's Tailgate Menu on the Food Network web site. His <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/guy-fieri/jambalaya-sandwich-recipe2/index.html">Jambalaya Sandwich</a> recipe looks delish! For dessert, you can't beat Paula Deen's <a href="http://www.pauladeen.com/index.php/food_section_articles/view2/mamas_sweet_potato_custard_pie/">Mama's Sweet Potato Custard Pie</a>. It is sure to be a hit, and will help to soak up all that alcohol that might be consumed!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://recipes.pauladeen.com/images/uploads/Southern-Recipes_Article.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://recipes.pauladeen.com/images/uploads/Southern-Recipes_Article.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Although you might want to come up with your own signature tailgate cocktail (think mascot - ex. Tempting Tiger Bite, The Howling Wolf), here are some ideas for drinks that go beyond the standard keg of beer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.semihomemade.com/img/uploads/products/products_246//head/4dc1047d850c69602195483b1a950522-1279221158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="http://www.semihomemade.com/img/uploads/products/products_246//head/4dc1047d850c69602195483b1a950522-1279221158.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/images/sys/200802-r-mojito-jell-o-shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.foodandwine.com/images/sys/200802-r-mojito-jell-o-shot.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Sandra Lee's <a href="http://www.semihomemade.com/cocktail/tequila-drinks/cranberry-margarita/246">Cranberry Margarita</a> has a touch of Fall flavor, and the Deen Brothers' <a href="http://thedeenbros.com/index.php/recipes/recipe_detail/texas_margaritas/">Texas Margaritas</a> would be a perfect compliment to fajitas and salsa. Of course you can't forget the old standby jello shots (see <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/mojito-jell-o-shots-with-white-rum-and-fresh-mint">Michael Symon's Mojito Jello Shots with White Rum and Fresh Mint</a> on Food & Wine's website). If the weather is a bit chilly, keep a themos or two of spiced cider, having a small bottle of whiskey on the side for those who prefer their cider a little "warmer".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Last of all, party favors. Yes, even though a tailgate isn't your traditional party, everyone enjoys a parting gift (outside of a hangover!) For a tailgate party, I think the ideal party favor would be something that would be useful for the upcoming game and is easily portable. One suggestion is pom-poms in the team's colors. Another might be plastic megaphones or can cozies. Party favors make sure that your tailgate is memorable, and is a nice way to say "thank you" for coming.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Oh, and don't forget to take pictures at your tailgate. GO TEAM!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0