Day # 5 {12 Days of Christmas Giveaway}

Today's prize is something directly from my kitchen to yours! FIVE of my favorite holiday treats, hand written on recipe cards to be shared w/ you and your family. The recipes include:

Waldorf Salad

Peanut Butter Fudge

Chocolate Pretzel Treats

Bacon Wrapped Chestnuts

Peppermint Dessert

Two of which aren't even on the blog yet!!! A sneak peek for the lucky winner :)

Remember, you must comment on the original post for your mandatory entry. Your comment here counts as your 5th extra entry.

Bring EMM home!!

From My Heart To His

I have 2 people in this house whom I aim to please w/ tasty meals on a daily basis. I'm not going to lie to you. One is easier than the other. Not b/c the older of the two is picky by any means, but let's face it, the 7 year old, well, my 7 year old anyway, will pretty much eat anything I put in front of him, especially if it contains one of his diet staples~ cheese, cheese and cheese :) Seriously though, I've said it before and I'll say it again, I'm very lucky to not only have no picky eaters in my house, but two "boys" who are more than willing to play along w/ my kitchen science experiments. But when I come across a recipe that I am excited to make for my husband, b/c it contains a favorite of his, that is a good day! That is exactly what happened when my friend, Jenna, over at Newlyweds Blog shared her Hearts of Palm Salad recipe. I actually didn't know, until this past summer how much Adam enjoyed hearts of palm. Have you ever had them? If not, I would say they are closest to an artichoke heart; but if you haven't had those, I'd say think olive like. I had never had one until Adam brought home a can to snack on, and I was immediately hooked. Unfortunately though, my recipe box had zero dishes containing them. That was until this gem came along. This salad is amazing! It's packed full of flavor, and could actually be a meal in itself. Jenna has a homemade dressing she uses for it (click the link above to see the original recipe and the amazing dressing) but I used bottled dressing I had on hand. Adam loved every bite and was so excited to have a new way to enjoy this unique vegetable. I'm so happy to say I pleased my husband, straight from my heart.

Hearts of Palm Salad From Newlyweds Blog
1 1/2 Romaine hearts, chopped
1/2 c. real bacon bits
1(15 oz.) can hearts of palm, drained and chopped
1 (15 oz.) can artichoke hearts in water, drained and chopped
1 avocado, chopped
1/2 c. feta cheese crumbles
Creamy Vidalia Onion dressing

Combine lettuce, bacon, hearts of palm, artichokes, avocado. Toss to combine. Top w/ cheese crumbles and add dressing to taste. If not serving immediately, wait to add avocado to avoid browning.

Shared on This Chick Cooks Nov. 30, 2011
Shared on Miz Helen's Country Cottage Dec. 1, 2011
Shared on The Country Cook Dec. 2, 2011

Salad at Very Good Recipes
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Yes, Another Potato

Faithful and regular readers of this blog have probably realized a few things. One, I love my family. Two, I love food. Three, this family loves potatoes. Sounds simple, I know, but it's the truth, so why try to hide from it. We're meat and potatoes kind of people. I come from that "stock" :) But I'm thankful that we are also international foodies---meaning all 3 of us, including Alex love food from around the world and are willing to try new and interesting things. But potatoes are one "staple" I don't see us straying from any time soon. So it's my job to find ways to present them that maybe aren't exactly new, but at least a little different from the "norm". That was the case w/ this idea. I've served roasted red potatoes for years, in many different ways. However, I've never tried the baby golden ones, even though I've passed them in the produce section dozens of times. I'm guessing the most practical reason for this is b/c the red ones are usually reasonably priced in my local market, while the bag of golden ones I purchased was almost $4, and while it was enough for our family, it definitely didn't have as many potatoes as I get when I buy the red ones in bulk. No matter, it was worth the little extra money to try something new and SO delicious. They have a buttery flavor and creamy texture that I've never experienced in a potato before, and I'm very much looking forward to having them again! You can never go wrong w/ a good 'ole potato!

Roasted Baby Golden Potatoes

1 bag baby gold potatoes
Olive oil
Salt and Pepper
Garlic Powder

Preheat oven to 400. Line a baking sheet w/ foil. Cut potatoes in half and place on baking sheet. Drizzle liberally w/ oil and season w/ salt, pepper and garlic powder. (Or the herbs of your choice). Roast for 1 hour. If a knife goes through w/o resistance, they are done. If not, continue cooking for about 15 minutes more.

~Join me for Tasty Tuesday on Formula Mom~

Shared on Mandy's Recipe Box Nov. 29, 2011
Shared on Chef in Training Nov. 29, 2011
Shared on This Chick Cooks Nov. 30, 2011
Shared on Newlyweds Blog Nov. 30, 2011
Shared on Miz Helen's Country Cottage Dec. 1, 2011

Potatoes at Very Good Recipes
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Day #4 {12 Days of Christmas Giveaway}

For our featured prize today I have this cute and festive towel. If your like me, all the time in the kitchen this time of year leads to many messes, mostly on my hands! So why not clean up using something w/ a little extra cheer in it? And it has a recipe on it! Remember, you must comment on the original post for your mandatory entry. Your comment on this post counts as your 4th extra entry.

A recipe I would love to try

Worth Repeating

Have you been enjoying the Weekend Company Guest Bloggers each Saturday? I hope so! I am so excited to have these wonderful bloggers, cooks and friends want to share their food w/ me and the Everyday family. If you have been reading each week, did you happen to catch Liz from Fresh Plate's post for Balsamic Chicken back at the end of October? Well, if you didn't don't worry, I'm here to save the day. You can either click the link above, or keep reading, b/c I'm going to share it again. Normally I don't like repeat recipes on this blog, and I try really hard not to do so, but when a guests shares something so gorgeous that it prompts me to make it the very next day, I think that is worth sharing and letting my fans know just how wonderful it turned out. This is a no fool recipe that turned out perfectly the 1st time, and I think it would be a "show stopper" to entertain with. If you caught Liz's post and wanted to make the chicken and haven't yet, I SO recommend it! And if you weren't around that Saturday, I'm happy to bring it to you again! And come back tomorrow to see the yummy potatoes I served with it!

Balsamic Glazed Chicken from Fresh Plate

3-4 bone in chicken breasts
1/4 c. balsamic vinegar
1 TBS olive oil
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and Pepper

Preheat oven to 400. Place chicken in a 9x13 dish, bone side down. Pour vinegar over. Sprinkle w/ oil, oregano, salt and pepper. Bake for 45 minutes or until juices run clear. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Shared on Make Ahead Meals Nov. 28, 2011
Shared on Mandy's Recipe Box Nov. 29, 2011
Shared on Chef in Training Nov. 29, 2011
Shared on This Chick Cooks Nov. 30, 2011
Shared on Newlyweds Blog Nov. 30, 2011
Shared on Miz Helen's Country Cottage Dec. 1, 2011
Shared on The Country Cook Dec. 2, 2011

Chicken at Very Good Recipes
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Day#3 {12 Days of Christmas Giveaway}

Today I have yet another holiday treat for you. The third featured prize is a lovely hand made poinsettia pot holder/hot pad. The perfect addition to your kitchen this holiday season! Remember, you must comment on the original post for your mandatory entry. Your comment on this post is your 3rd extra entry.

Handmade w/ love....just not by me :)

Day #2 {12 Days of Christmas Giveaway}

On the second day of Christmas my EMM gave to me.......A cute little spatula :) Today's featured prize is this adorable gingerbread man spatula, perfect for all of that holiday baking. Don't forget, you must comment on the original post for the mandatory entry. Your comment on this post is your 2nd extra entry.

He's almost too cute to use...almost

Church Supper #19

I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving!! Here at the "Everyday" house, we are in full holiday mode. The night before Thanksgiving, we ventured to the mall so little man could visit Santa, give his wish list and tell him Merry Christmas.

Then after we were done, we drove downtown to enjoy the Christmas lighting festivities and visit some
of our favorite displays.

Family picture w/ the Christmas Wreath.

A highlight of the season-sharing one of my favorite childhood traditions.

Then the day after Thanksgiving, we spent the day decorating the inside of the house. Close to 12 hours of work was totally worth it!!!

So rather you are still using up the rest of that turkey and dressing, or like us, have moved onto candy canes, Santa cookies and holiday punch, share your favorite recipes from the week, or past ones you know are hits!  Please remember I wish you God's blessings all week long!

Rules:

1. Feel free to link up as many recipes as you like!

2. Link up to your ACTUAL recipe, not just your homepage. Much easier to find you that way!

3. Include a link back to EMM on your recipe post or grab my button!

4. Leave comments so I can visit you back!

5. Visit at least 2 other sites and tell them you joined them at my Church Supper!

6. Follow my blog here w/ GFC and on Facebook :)

Day #1 {12 Days of Christmas Giveaway}

The first prize is not a partridge in a pear tree, but is a cute set of Christmas recipe cards. Perfect to keep your favorite holiday recipes on, or share them w/ someone else. Remember, to enter, you MUST have already commented on the original post. Your comment on this post is your 1st extra entry.

I think some EMM recipes would look great on these ;-)

Meal Plan Nov. 27- Dec. 3

*New Recipe
^New to blog, but not us
Links to recipes

Sunday
French Toast Casserole* (Left over due to illness)
Bacon
Peaches

Monday
Chicken over Mushroom Egg Noodles^
French Bread

Tuesday
Sloppy Joes
Beer Battered Pickles*
Pears

Wednesday
Pot Roast with:
-red potatoes
 -carrots

Thursday
Crock Pot Sausage & Kraut
Peas

Friday (Alex's pick)
Fish Fillets
Mac n Cheese
Broccoli

Saturday
Steak
Wedge Salads
Hawaiian Rolls

This One Time At Band Camp....

No...it's not that kind of story. Get your mind out of the gutter! This is truly a story about my days in band camp. Yes, I was a bank geek; and proud of it! My 4 years in high school were about many things, but one of the biggest time consuming, lesson teaching, memory making activities was Carroll Charger Pride! I played flute in concert, pep and marching band, but my true love and the one I enjoyed the absolute most was marching. The summer weeks spent practicing, the fall football games, the Saturday competitions-from July to November my life revolved around my flute, drill and good times. One of the reasons it was so much fun was b/c 99% of my friends were in band too, so along w/ a lot of work came many opportunities to be w/ the people I loved. One of my friend's moms always made these for parties and she would bring them to band practice too. I LOVED them....seriously.....she would make an extra plate just for me :) They make a great appetizer, lunch, or snack. Plus they are one of those things you can dress up or down, add to, and really make your own. High school may have been 12 years ago, but those memories will last a lifetime, especially when I'm eating these!

Salsa Roll Ups


Small Flour Tortillas (soft taco size)
4 oz. Whipped Cream Cheese
3 TBS Mild Chunky Salsa
Finely Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1/4 tsp chili powder

In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, salsa and chili powder. Mix well. Spread on tortillas. Top w/ cheese. Roll up tightly and cut into pieces. Chill before serving.

Shared at Make Ahead Meals Nov. 28, 2011

Appetizers at Very Good Recipes
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Tis' The Season {12 Days of Christmas Giveaway}

I am SO excited to finally announcing this giveaway! And what better day, than today BLACK Friday--the official gateway to the holiday shopping season!! I have been working on this giveaway since July! A huge thank you to my mom who helped me find all the prizes and put this all together! I love Christmas. Actually, love doesn't even describe it. The minute the holiday season begins, I become like a kid again. Maybe it's b/c I now get to see it through Alex's eyes, which only adds to the joy and wonder. This is truly my favorite time of the year, and especially this year b/c I get to share my love of not only the holiday, but gift giving w/ all of you--My fans who have made this blog such a success and such a fantastic part of my life. This is my way of saying thank you! I am kind of known for finding that one gift for each person in my life that is "just right", special, unexpected and perfect. I would love to give each one of you one of these gifts, but since the one thing I didn't do in 2011 was win the lottery, how about a prize package instead??!! This giveaway is going to be a little different, staying w/ the 12 Days of Christmas theme. I wish you all a VERY Merry Christmas (and for those who do not celebrate, Happy Holidays!) filled w/ the wonderment of a child, the joy of the Spirit, and the gift of love promised by a baby in a manger so long ago.

Rules:

This contest open to US Residents ONLY (I wish I could afford shipping around the world, but alas I'm not Santa)

Each day, for the next 12 days,  a different prize will be featured on the blog. 

You MUST leave an email address on at least one entry. I want to be able to find you easily!

All comments will be collected in order of posting and entered.

A winner will be chosen by Random.org

Contest Ends: Thursday December 8, 2011 12am EST

To Enter: (Read Carefully)

 1. Mandatory Entry: Leave a comment here telling me what you love most about Christmas (or whatever holiday you celebrate this time of year) NO extra entries will count w/o this comment. 

2. Extra Entries: Each day, when a prize is featured, leave a comment on that post as well. That is up to 12 entries per person! NO extra entries will be valid w/o commenting on ORIGINAL post. If you come into the contest in the middle--it's OKAY. Just backtrack and be sure to comment on the original. You DO NOT need to comment on each prize to win, but the more you comment, the better odds you have.

The Prizes: 

The Prizes--All FOOD related :)

1. A Snowman Tin
2. Set of 6 Cookie Cutters
3. Cupcake Ornament
4. Poinsettia Coasters
5. Christmas Recipe Cards
6. Homemade Poinsettia Hot Pad
7. Set of Cupcake Papers/Picks
8. 5 Recipe Cards w/ Some of My Favorite Holiday Recipes
9. Kitchen Towel
10. Gingerbread Spatula
11. Christmas Cookie Cookbook
12. Magnetic Shopping List

*THIS IS NOT THE ORDER THE PRIZES WILL BE FEATURED*

*This contest is sponsored by nobody but myself. This is my Christmas gift to one lucky fan of EMM*

Come back tomorrow for the 1st Day of Christmas!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope this finds all of my dear fans spending time w/ family today, and even if hours are spent in the kitchen preparing a delicious meal, I hope those hours too are filled w/ smiles, laughs and memories to last a life time. If you happen to be logging on early in the morning, and just maybe be looking for a dessert for your Thanksgiving meal, you've come to the right place. Especially if you're looking for something "pumpkiny" w/o the pie! This is a great alternative to the traditional favorite Turkey Day dessert of millions of Americans, myself included. If you have major "sweet teeth" in your family, then this is definitely something you'll want to add to your turkey, mashed potatoes, dressing and cranberry sauce spread. I hope each of you know when I sit down this year and list all of the things I'm most thankful for, and all the blessings that have been bestowed upon me this year, ALL of you, and what you have brought to my life through this blog, will be at the top of that list along w/ the rest of my family, b/c in my eyes, and in my heart, that is what you are. My family. Happy Thanksgiving and may God bless you and your family always.

Pumpkin Dump Cake from A Picky Apple
1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin puree (not pie mix)
1 box yellow cake mix
1 (12 oz.) can evaporate milk
3 large eggs
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1 c. chopped pecans
1 c. (2 sticks) butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350. Combine pumpkin, milk, eggs, sugar, salt and cinnamon. Mix well. Grease a 9x13 baking dish. Pour pumpkin mixture into bottom. Top w/ DRY cake mix evenly. Sprinkle w/ pecans. Pour butter on top. Do NOT mix. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. *Mine took 1 hour 5 minutes*

Shared on A Little Nosh Nov. 24, 2011

Desserts at Very Good Recipes
Pumpkin at Very Good Recipes

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Gluten Free Club

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Schar for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

It seems like almost on a daily basis, not only do I have more and more fans/readers of this blog asking me for gluten free options, but also people in my personal life. In fact, just today I spoke w/ 2 different people about the effects gluten has on their loved ones. While I don't know how to make many gluten free dishes, nor do I necessarily worry about it for my family, I do however, know the struggles of others out there trying to find foods that are tasty while still gluten free; especially moms who have kids w/ gluten allergies, or other health issues that cause them to have to avoid it; and I sympathize w/ them b/c we are all just moms trying to serve our children the best possible food. Have you heard of the Schar brand? It is the leader in gluten-free foods and most recently has re-launched products such as Sub Sandwich Rolls, Ciabatta Rolls, and Baguettes.

That's right--all bread items! Yay! How exciting is that?

I am so excited to try some of these the next time I'm entertaining for those who need a gluten-free option. (Talk about making party planning easier!). It would be so nice to be able to look at guests and say "Yes, it's bread and yes, you can eat it."
Schar Gluten-free Sub Sandwich Rolls are delicious, low fat, non-GMO and an excellent source of fiber. They are perfect for "on the go" too b/c they come individually wrapped in two-packs for optimum freshness. Their Ciabatta Rolls are the FIRST gluten-free heat and serve ciabatta rolls available in the US! Not to mention they are light, fluffy, flavorful and also a good source of fiber. And for the perfect match for soup or salad, Schar Gluten-Free Baguettes are perfect- crispy on the outside and tender inside. Just think, now along side your gluten free pasta, you can have crusty bread to "scoop" with!
If this all sounds like something  you want to "jump on the bandwagon of", or have gluten issues in your household, why not sign up for the Schar Club to have exclusive access to new products, tips, recipes and promotions? You will also have access to coupons, free product samples and advice on maintaining a gluten-free lifestyle.

Schar Club

Schar free sample

So, what are you waiting for? Join the Schar Club today and start enjoying those foods again that you have had to give up b/c of gluten! Please comment and tell me the product you are most excited about trying and/or what you want to make w/ the Schar products!!

Thanksgivings Memories

The year was 2007. I was a wife of 4 years and a mommy to a 3 year old and about to embark on a journey I had never taken before and haven't again since. I was going to make Thanksgiving dinner at my house, for my family. Now, that only consisted of Adam, Alex, myself and my parents, but it was still intimidating w/ a capital I! Thawing a turkey? Roasting it to perfection? Making all the sides to go with it? Oh my gosh, I was so scared I was going to screw something up! I planned for weeks, and wanted to make it so special for everyone, but especially for my parents who were not able to go "home" to Pa and see any of there family that year. I tried really hard to recapture the spirit of Thanksgivings of yesteryear that we had all shared together, and while it was on a much smaller scale, and there were only 5 of us at the table, I think I did a pretty nice job. We had a wonderful day together, and many memories were made. One of the most vivid I have of that day is the Waldorf Salad I made. It might sound silly, but I was so proud of that salad. I remembered my Grammy making it for holidays before, and I wanted to make something that would bring back those same memories for my dad. He loved it. We all did. I felt so good making something so "old fashioned". (You have to understand that at the time, I was nowhere near the cook I am today.) This salad looks like a holiday on a plate to me; and every time I make it I'm taken back to that day. Such a simple holiday, but one I will remember for the rest of my life as being the first one we celebrated in our home, all together.

Waldorf Salad

3-4 apples, cored and chopped

1 1/2 c. seedless red grapes, halved

1 1/2 c. celery, chopped

1/2 -1 c. chopped walnuts (we like lots)

6 TBS mayo

3 TBS lemon juice

Salt and Pepper to taste

Mix apples, grapes, celery and nuts. In a separate bowl, combine mayo and lemon juice. Pour over apple mixture and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Chill well before serving.

Shared on This Chick Cooks Nov. 23, 2011

Shared on Newlyweds Blog Nov. 23, 2011
Shared on The Shady Porch Nov. 23, 2011
Shared on Miz Helen's Country Cottage Nov. 24, 2011
Shared on A Little Nosh Nov. 24, 2011

Salads at Very Good Recipes

If I Could I Would

Do you remember holiday parties when you were in elementary school? I do, fondly. I remember looking forward to each one, no matter what the occasion, and being so excited to see what everyone would bring in to share w/ the class. I remember I kids whose mom's would visit, carrying these huge Tupperware containers full of home made goodies for all of us to enjoy. Well, I don't know how it is in your child's school, but those days are long gone in Alex's. Due to the world we live in today, home made treats are banned from most schools around here. We still send in things to share, but they are always store bought in the original container. And while this makes me sad b/c it's a sign of today's society, I respect, understand and fully support the school's caution and concerns about safety. But every time I find a cute recipe children would love, for just a split second I wish I could make it for Alex's class and be "one of those cool moms" I remember so well. Instead they become after school snacks and treats to share w/ the neighbor kids, as was the case when I shared the Spider Cookies during Halloween. Once again, my inspiration has come from not only Pinterest, but also Oreos....just like those cookies. Who knew there were so many adorable things you could do w/ America's favorite cookie? If you are still allowed to take home made things to your child's school, these would be a HUGE hit at a Thanksgiving party! But if you're like me, and are continually sending in store made cupcakes or boxes of fruit snacks, enjoy these at home, w/ your little turkeys!

Oreo Turkeys 
Makes 4


4 Oreo cookies
20 pieces of candy corn
4 Whopper candies
Icing in your color choice (I had yellow)

Carefully put 5 candy corn pieces in each sandwich cookies, between layers, making "feathers". With a small dot of icing, adhere 1 Whopper to each, to make "head". Using icing, draw eyes and "gobbler". With more icing colors, or decorations, the details are endless!

~Join me for Tasty Tuesday on Formula Mom~

Shared on Celebrating Family Nov. 22, 2011
Shared on Naptime Creations Nov. 22, 2011
Shared on Chef in Training Nov. 22, 2011
Shared on Mandy's Recipe Box Nov. 22, 2011
Shared on This Chick Cooks Nov. 23. 2011
Shared on Newlyweds Blog Nov. 23, 2011
Shared on Miz Helen's Country Cottage Nov. 24, 2011
Shared on A Little Nosh Nov. 24, 2011

Desserts at Very Good Recipes
Thanksgiving at Very Good Recipes
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Thanksgiving Round Up

I hope you are all ready for the biggest cooking day of the year! The day when home cooks and professional chefs unite, in our own kitchens all at the same time trying to get a beautiful, delicious meal on the table w/o any disasters! But if you are still looking for a little inspiration, or are wondering what will be on my table this year (noted w/ a *), you've come to the right place. Some of these things I will be making, others are just great ideas. I hope all of you have a very Happy Thanksgiving, filled w/ yummy food, loving family, and blessings overflowing from God above.

Roasted Turkey

We are actually having ham this year, but 4 years ago when I did cook turkey, this was how!

Roast Chicken w/ Parsley Red Potatoes

A great alternative for smaller gatherings

Sweet Potato Casserole

The best part is the crunchy topping!

Scalloped Potatoes*

For those who don't like the "sweet" or if you just want options.

Green Bean Casserole*

One of the things I look forward to the most during the holidays

Sauteed Parsnips*

My dad's favorite vegetable I will be surprising him with!

Honey-Thyme Butternut Squash

I think most people like more than one vegetable choice.

Pan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A traditional Thanksgiving vegetable taken to the next level! These aren't your mama's sprouts!

Deviled Eggs*
I can't make a holiday meal w/o these!

Pumpkin Pie Parfaits

Now onto the best part...dessert. If my mom wasn't making her famous pumpkin pie, I would be having these!

Apple Dumplings

For those who are "pumpkin-ed out"

Baked Pineapple

This is the "any" option. It can be a side or a dessert!

Caramel Apple Spice

The perfect beverage for a large group. Keep it warm in the crock pot and it will last all day!

Happy Eating!!

Thanksgiving at Very Good Recipes

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Turkey App...No iPhone Needed

I'm talking appetizer. (But in today's world, let's face it, the "app" had you thinking something was going to need downloaded!) I have had these saved to my Thanksgiving Pinterest board since before the leaves were falling from the trees. I think they would make a great "nibbly bit" (as Alex calls them) for your Turkey Day celebration, or if you want to wait until the day after, something nice and light that could use up some of those leftovers that are taking over your fridge. Adam described them as "Thanksgiving in a bite sized portable package." I couldn't have said it better myself! They are sweet, savory and oh so yummy! I hope you enjoy this "app" brought to you from EMM, free of charge, no data required!!

Turkey Bites

Triscuit Crackers
Roasted Turkey deli meat
Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Whole Cranberry Sauce

On each cracker, place a small slice of cheese and turkey. Top w/ a small dollop of cranberry sauce.

*Leftover turkey and cranberry sauce would be a great substitute. And American cheese would be good, if sharp cheddar is a little too "bitey" for the kids.*

Shared on Make Ahead Meals Nov. 21, 2011
Shared on Home Savvy Nov. 21, 2011
Shared on Celebrating Family Nov. 22, 2011
Shared on Naptime Creations Nov. 22, 2011
Shared on Chef in Training Nov. 22, 2011
Shared on Mandy's Recipe Box Nov. 22, 2011
Shared on This Chick Cooks Nov. 23. 2011
Shared at Newlyweds Blog Nov. 23, 2011
Shared on Miz Helen's Country Cottage Nov. 24, 2011
Shared on A Little Nosh Nov. 24, 2011
Shared on Gooseberry Patch May 9, 2012

Turkey at Very Good Recipes
Appetizers at Very Good Recipes
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Master The Gravy

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of GravyMaster for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Mmmmm......mashed potatoes....just the thought of their fluffy goodness makes me smile, and my stomach growl. Are you a with gravy or without gravy person? And more importantly, are you one of the lucky ones who can make really good gravy? Well, lucky you! In my family, my dad makes the best gravy! Me? Well, I haven't quite mastered this technique yet. So if you are like me, and could use a little help in the gravy department, why not try GravyMaster, this holiday season? Not only to make your gravy better, but the greatest thing about this product? It's not just for gravy anymore. Got vegetables on your holiday menu? Well, it's great in marinades and for caramelizing too. Want to take your holiday ham, or other meat, to the next level? Well, it's perfect for that too. Their Master the meal page has so many good ideas, and endless possibilities. I can't wait to see if I can find GravyMaster in my local grocery store so I can add it to my pantry for not just holidays, but everyday uses too. In gravy, for meats, veggies, grilling, etc--I think it is something I definitely want to have on hand. To start with though, I absolutely want it to help me in the gravy department, maybe even replicating my dad's oh so perfect ones!

So, if you want a little help like I do, or are just looking for something new to give your cooking a twist, try GravyMaster today! Please, feel free to comment telling me the first thing you want to try it in!!

Church Supper #18

Can you believe Thanksgiving is only 4 days away? Is it just me or is time flying??!! And we all know from Thursday on, it will be a very fast, downhill coast to Christmas. Have you started your shopping yet? Or do you fall into the "Black Friday" crowd, standing in line at midnight for those great deals? As much as I love to shop, I do not enjoy crowds, so I stay as far away as possible from the mall on the day after Thanksgiving! Lol Do you have your Turkey Day menu all planned? Usually I am only responsible for one or two things b/c we are "guests" but this year, we are "hosts" so I am doing most of the cooking! It will only be the second time I've ever hosted Thanksgiving, and this year I've decided to make a ham b/c Adam loves it, and never gets it. So yes, I'm "bucking" tradition and we'll be having Spiral Cut Ham w/ Orange Raisin Sauce, Scalloped Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, Sauteed Parsnips, Rolls and Pumpkin Pie. (Thankfully, my mom is bringing the rolls and pie!) Just typing it make me hungry! We have so much to be thankful for this year--and that list includes all of you, and your wonderful support and love of this blog. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving. May your day be filled w/ love and bountiful memories. Share your favorite recipes from the week, or past ones you know are hits!  Please remember I wish you God's blessings all week long!

Rules:

1. Feel free to link up as many recipes as you like!

2. Link up to your ACTUAL recipe, not just your homepage. Much easier to find you that way!

3. Include a link back to EMM on your recipe post or grab my button!

4. Leave comments so I can visit you back!

5. Visit at least 2 other sites and tell them you joined them at my Church Supper!

6. Follow my blog here w/ GFC and on Facebook :)

Weekend Company #10 {Guest Blogger Amber}

Welcome to another weekend! Whew...it's so hard to believe Thanksgiving is this week! If you are sitting down to plan your Turkey Day menu, or you have a trip to the grocery store on your "to do " list today, pleas take 5 minutes and share in today's guest post. Amber is another Mommy, cook and blogger, who believes in the same idea as me-- One meal for everybody! No short order cooks here! She has a recipe to share that is perfect for those upcoming cold winter evenings! Thanks Amber for sharing w/ us today, and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

Hi! I'm Amber, the mommy at This Mommy Cooks. Thanks Krista for inviting me to be your weekend company!  I am a Tennessee girl who is a stay at home wife and mother to two young boys and a new baby girl. Even though my days are quite busy, I try to make time for my love of cooking. My philosophy is to only prepare one meal that my entire family will eat. This makes my life much easier! It also helps my kiddos to eat more of a variety of foods that are healthy. My love for both cooking and blogging brought about my blog This Mommy Cooks. I've been posting recipes on my personal blog for years, but finally made the plunge into the foodie blog world two years ago this January.  I hope you enjoy my recipes as much as I enjoy preparing them! If you're on twitter, facebook, or pinterest, come find me!

Today I'm sharing a recipe that I've already shared on my blog. It is a favorite in our house, Chicken Corn Chowder. Basically, it tastes like chicken pot pie in soup form, and who doesn't like chicken pot pie? This is the pefect meal for these cool nights that are upon us. So make this soon, I promise it won't disappoint.

I promise this picture doesn't do this soup justice!

Chicken Corn Chowder

adapted from Paula Deen's Chef Jack's Corn Chowder

Ingredients:

6 TBSP butter

1/2 onion, diced

1 small carrot, finely diced

1 small celery stalk, diced

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cans corn (I used bi color white and yellow)

1 1/2-2 cups cooked chicken, cubed (I used 3 chicken breasts.)

3 cups chicken broth

1 can evaporated milk (12oz)

Pinch nutmeg

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic, and saute for 2 minutes. Add the flour and stir to make a roux. Cook until the roux is lightly browned; set aside to cool to room temperature. I poured the mixture into a glass bowl so it would cool faster. Then used the unwashed pot for the next step.

While roux is cooling, combine the corn, chicken, and chicken broth in saucepan, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes. Pour roux into the corn and chicken mixture (a little at a time), whisking briskly so it doesn't lump. Return the pot to the heat and bring to a boil. The mixture should become very thick.

Stir evaporated milk into the thick corn mixture. Add the nutmeg and salt and pepper, to taste. Return to boil and simmer for 5 more minutes. Serve with warm bread.

Menu Plan Nov. 19-26

*New Recipe
Links to recipes on blog

Saturday
Alex has a TKD promotion test

Sunday
Ranch Bacon Burgers*
Baked Home Fries
Pickled Beets

Monday
Pork Chops
Stuffing
Applesauce

Tuesday
French Toast Casserole* (Left over from last week due to an extra TKD class)
Bacon
Peaches

Wednesday
Philly Spaghetti*
Breadsticks

Thursday Happy Thanksgiving
Spiral Cut Ham
Orange Raisin Sauce (picture to be added)
Sauteed Parsnips
Green Bean Casserole
Applesauce
Rolls
Pumpkin Pie

Friday
Leftovers

Saturday
Coney Dogs
French Fries
Sliced Pears

Periodical Treat

On my parents' last trip to Pennsylvania to visit my grandma, she loaded their van w/ a lot of treats for those of us back in Indiana. Sweet rolls and breads, cookies, spaghetti sauce and just for me...a bag full of past issues of cooking magazines. When my mom gave them to me, you would have thought it was Christmas morning. I was SO excited. I love browsing foodie magazines, but never take the extra money to buy them, unless it's from the used book store, which is great, but they don't always have a steady supply. This stack is going to keep me occupied for a good amount of time. One of them, a Taste of Home, from last November was dedicated to, what else, Thanksgiving and lots of ideas for the holiday. I was instantly drawn to one of them using butternut squash. We still have a few from the garden sitting in our fridge that need to be used; and at this point, I'll try just about anything so they won't go to waste. The half and half gives it a creamy texture while the honey adds just a touch of sweet, both being nice additions to our usual squash routine. Thanks for the magazines Grammy! Sometimes the simplest things are the nicest treats!

Honey-Thyme Butternut Squash Adapted from Taste of Home


1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
3 TBS butter
1 1/2 TBS half and half
1 TBS honey
1 tsp. dried parsley
1/8 tsp dried thyme
Salt and Pepper to taste

Cover the squash w/ water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well. Return to pot and mash w/ a potato masher. Add remaining ingredients and continue to mash to desired consistency. (If you like it extra smooth, beat w/ electric mixer) Garnish w/ extra parsley. This can be made ahead and then reheated in oven or microwave.

Shared on Jane Deere Nov. 18, 2011
Shared on The Country Cook Nov. 18, 2011
Shared on Make Ahead Meals Nov. 21, 2011
Shared on Home Savvy Nov. 21, 2011

Squash at Very Good Recipes
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Thanks, Mom

I have told you before that there are certain things my mom makes better than anyone else (in my opinion of course) and while I've conquered some of them, others I still refuse to make. Not b/c I don't I think, but b/c I know they will never taste as good as hers, so what's the point??!! That's right mom, I'll still be coming home for your Beef and Noodles and Salmon Patties! The next "mom only" food I was ready to check off my list was her coleslaw. It is the same recipes her mom makes, and they both have been making it for years, and not once had I even tried! But it was time and luckily I wanted to have it on a night I was actually going to be at her house during the day, so she could guide me! Okay, I can't lie, she did more than guide, but I figured if she actually had a hand in making it, it would have the "love" taste hers always does. This is by far the simplest coleslaw recipe I've ever made, and is our family's absolutely favorite. Adam was so surprised when he sat down to supper and it was there ready for the eating. And I was right, having mom help me made it taste even better! So if there is something your mama makes you love, try your hand at it....w/ her help of course :)

Mom's Coleslaw
1 small head cabbage, shredded
3/4 c. Miracle Whip (Mom has NEVER used mayo)
1 1/2 tsp. cider vinegar
1 tsp sugar
1 TBS dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Paprika, for garnish

Place cabbage in a large bowl. In another bowl, combine all other ingredients until smooth. Mix well. Pour over cabbage and combine until dressing is incorporated well. Sprinkle w/ paprika. Chill until serving.

Cabbage at Very Good Recipes
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Mommy and Monkey Treat

With the days getting colder by the minute, and the fact that we had our first snow fall last week, (And while it only lasted a brief amount of time, melted right away, and the sun came out after, it was still SNOW!) we all have to face the fact that winter is almost here; and before we know it, we'll be shoveling ourselves out of the house on what will seem like a daily basis.  Well, except for those of you in Florida and other "tropical" states. For you.....well, my mom always said if I can't say something nice, not to say anything at all....) I'm always on the lookout for warm and comforting after school treats for Alex; and if Mommy can enjoy it too, all the better. We love Nutella. That is no surprise to anyone reading this. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when my cousin Tricia over at Recipe Roundup, showed me a brand new Nutella recipe she found. I immediately "pinned" it to my board on Pinterest, and couldn't wait to try it. This ingenious drink came from Cookin' Cowgirl and I am eternally grateful! It was SO yummy and the perfect thing to warm a monkey up after a cold day!

Nutella Hot Cocoa  from Cookin' Cowgirl


2 c. 2% milk
3 TBS Nutella
1 tsp Hershey's Cocoa Powder
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp vanilla
Pinch salt
Mini Marshmallows or Whipped Cream, optional

In a small sauce pan over low heat, warm milk. Once warm, whisk in Nutella and stir until smooth. Add cocoa, cinnamon, vanilla and salt. Continue to whisk until it comes to a boil. Pour into mugs and top w/ marshmallows or whipped cream.

Shared on Bacon Time Nov. 16, 2011
Shared on Newlyweds Blog Nov. 16, 2011
Shared on This Chick Cooks Nov. 16, 2011
Shared on Something Swanky Nov. 17, 2011
Shared on It's A Keeper Nov. 17, 2011
Shared on Jane Deere Nov. 18, 2011
Shared on Six Sisters' Stuff Nov. 19, 2011

Beverages at Very Good Recipes
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Sugar, Spice and Everything Nice

That is the perfect way to describe this recipe....and it's NOT even edible! That's right, I'm this excited about something and it's not food. Shocking I know! One of the most popular recipes on this blog isn't food either....lol. My Sea Salt Hand Scrub has been "Googled" by countless people and I would like to think women around the world have softer hands b/c of me:) This time around, I have the perfect scrub for autumn; and I think it would make a great gift for the holiday season! On a rainy October day I got a message from my friend Erin w/ a link she thought I would enjoy. Oh how right she was. As soon as I read it I couldn't wait to make it, so the minute I got home, I did!! I even shared it w/ my mother-in-law who also loved it! The link I clicked on took me to Under The Table and Dreaming by Stephanie Lynn and if you head over there, she even has some printable labels to use if you decide to make this for gifts! What a great lady!! I actually cut the recipe in half, and it was more than enough for myself and to share. I can't wait to make it for Alex's teacher and family for Christmas gifts. Just one *warning* though: When you use it on your hands, they will smell just like pumpkin pie...and you might just find yourself nibbling on them for an afternoon snack!!

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Scrub


1 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. white sugar
1 TBS pumpkin pie spice (recipe below)
1/2 c. plus 1/2 TBS vegetable oil

Mix sugars and spice together making sure there are no lumps. Add in oil and mix well. Store in airtight container away from direct sunlight.

Pumpkin Pie Spice


1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/8 tsp ground cloves
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg

This makes 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice. 3 tsp will give you 1 TBS

~Join me for Tasty Tuesday on Formula Mom~

Shared on Mandy's Recipe Box Nov. 15, 2011
Shared on Celebrating Family Nov. 15, 2011
Shared on Chef in Training Nov. 15, 2011
Shared on Home Savvy Nov. 15, 2011
Shared on Bacon Time Nov. 16, 2011
Shared on It's A Keeper Nov. 17, 2011
Shared on Six Sisters' Stuff Nov. 19, 2011

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