tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-347872172024-03-12T19:13:42.856-07:00Get Real GalReal Food. Real Family. Real Fun.Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.comBlogger342125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-81346898578125578932017-11-18T12:27:00.000-08:002017-11-18T12:27:00.370-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JtcUcbIHddk/WhCXAFDyiuI/AAAAAAAAEYc/m0c4E0n_wKQVyHc4SuPxZCoCbdwtGjxswCLcBGAs/s1600/GRG%2BFB%2BHEader.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="295" data-original-width="784" height="120" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JtcUcbIHddk/WhCXAFDyiuI/AAAAAAAAEYc/m0c4E0n_wKQVyHc4SuPxZCoCbdwtGjxswCLcBGAs/s320/GRG%2BFB%2BHEader.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh hey! Are you still here? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It didn't take long for me and this biz to outgrow this little bit of space, so we've moved! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://getrealgal.com/" target="_blank">Come on over and join me in my new space!</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's loaded with amazing new recipes, fitness tips, tales and trials. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Make sure to drop a line and say hello!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-60418401033999611862017-11-18T12:23:00.000-08:002017-11-18T12:23:50.580-08:00Clean Turkey Tacos with Hidden VeggiesMy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1081918461820268/" target="_blank">Clean Eating and Wellness Challenge</a> group is growing all the time, and it is so much fun! This month's challenge is, as always, budget friendly, kid friendly, and done in less than 30 minutes. We begin in two weeks, s what are you waiting for? <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1081918461820268/" target="_blank">Join us this month</a> and score some killer new recipes, plus find out what clean eating does for you energy level, sleep, and focus!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div contenteditable="true" id="contentsContainer" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; padding-left: 72pt; padding-right: 72pt;">
<div id="contents">
<qowt-section break-before="" named-flow="FLOW-2" qowt-eid="E55" style="-webkit-column-count: 1; display: block;"></qowt-section><br />
<div id="E361" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E361" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<b><span class="qowt-font7-CFJackStory" id="E365" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E365" style="display: inline; font-family: "cf jack story" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Turkey Tacos with </span><span class="qowt-font7-CFJackStory" id="E366" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E366" style="display: inline; font-family: "cf jack story" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Secret</span><span class="qowt-font7-CFJackStory" id="E367" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E367" style="display: inline; font-family: "cf jack story" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span class="qowt-font7-CFJackStory" id="E369" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E369" style="display: inline; font-family: "cf jack story" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Veg</span></b></div>
<div id="E371" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E371" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E372" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E372" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seasoning</span></div>
<div id="E373" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E373" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E374" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E374" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 Tbsp. Chili Powder</span></div>
<div id="E375" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E375" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E376" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E376" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1/4 tsp. Garlic Powder</span></div>
<div id="E377" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E377" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E378" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E378" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1/4 tsp. Onion Powder</span></div>
<div id="E379" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E379" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E380" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E380" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1/4 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes</span></div>
<div id="E381" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E381" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E382" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E382" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1/4 tsp. Dried Oregano</span></div>
<div id="E383" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E383" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E384" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E384" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1/2 tsp. Paprika</span></div>
<div id="E385" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E385" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E386" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E386" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 1/2 tsp. Ground Cumin</span></div>
<div id="E387" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E387" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E388" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E388" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 tsp. Sea Salt</span></div>
<div id="E389" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E389" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E390" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E390" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 tsp. Black Pepper </span></div>
<div id="E391" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E391" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div id="E392" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E392" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E393" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E393" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. You can triple this and store it in a jar for future use!</span></div>
<div id="E394" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E394" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div id="E395" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E395" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E396" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E396" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tacos:</span></div>
<div id="E397" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E397" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E398" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E398" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 lb. ground turkey</span></div>
<div id="E399" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E399" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E400" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E400" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 </span><span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E401" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E401" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">small </span><span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E402" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E402" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">zucchini, grated</span></div>
<div id="E399" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E399" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E404" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E404" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 </span><span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E405" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E405" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">small </span><span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E406" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E406" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">carrot, grated</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div contenteditable="true" id="contentsContainer" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; padding-left: 72pt; padding-right: 72pt;">
<div id="contents">
<qowt-section break-before="" named-flow="FLOW-2" qowt-eid="E55" style="-webkit-column-count: 1; display: block;"></qowt-section><br />
<div id="E407" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E407" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E408" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E408" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 small onion, grated</span></div>
<div id="E409" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E409" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E410" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E410" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Corn tortillas</span></div>
<div id="E411" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E411" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E412" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E412" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Avocado, Limes, </span><span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E413" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E413" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Diced tomato, Lettuce, </span><span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E414" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E414" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cilantro, Greek yogurt, chopped jalapeno, etc. for serving</span></div>
<div id="E415" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E415" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div id="E416" is="qowt-word-para" qowt-eid="E416" style="display: block; font-family: Calibri, Carlito, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0pt;">
<span class="qowt-font8-PrintClearly" id="E417" is="qowt-word-run" qowt-eid="E417" style="display: inline; font-family: "print clearly" "important"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Heat a little oil in a sauté pan. Once hot, add turkey and cook until browned, drain any fat. Add onion, carrot and zucchini to pan and cook until softened. Add seasoning to taste and tomato. Stir and cook until sauce is thickened. Serve in charred tortillas with garnishes of choice!</span></div>
</div>
</div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-90668744174263051202015-12-11T10:17:00.000-08:002015-12-11T10:17:11.865-08:0012 Days of Christmas: Take 2 - Button Trees!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s5pqMfI9ZqQ/VmsR_icQz9I/AAAAAAAADHk/-iuLGTOfaEM/s1600/button%2Btrees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s5pqMfI9ZqQ/VmsR_icQz9I/AAAAAAAADHk/-iuLGTOfaEM/s640/button%2Btrees.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Last winter my 12 Days of Christmas posts featured a new local Etsy shop or crafter. This year's 12 Days of Christmas features are kid focused, because duh. I spend every waking hour of my life with my own kids and/or someone else's, so there ya go. We have already been baking and decorating and crafting up a storm since the day we came home from our Thanksgiving long weekend, so I figured it is time to share some holiday cheer! All of the 12 posts will be quick and easy crafts, recipes, or books that have gone over well with my own kiddos or the 4 Little Bean's who come for care.<br />
<br />
Day 1 is all about Button Trees! These are a great quick craft for littles of various ages. You don't need much and they also make cute gifts for teachers, babysitters and grandparents.<br />
<br />
You need:<br />
green and tan or orange popsicle sticks<br />
buttons<br />
glue<br />
glitter (optional for some, but not us!)<br />
string or an ornament hook<br />
<br />
Arrange green sticks in a triangle and affix each corner with a dot or glue. Cut additional sticks to size for branches and attach with more glue. Cut tan/orange sticks in half to act as a trunk and affix with glue. Let this base dry before adding buttons! When it is dry, add button ornaments with more glue dots. I added the glitter with a spray of Alene's Spray Adhesive, but you can just use your regular glue for that! Once the glue is fully dry, it is ready to hang or gift!<br />
<br />
Have a fun holiday craft to share? Link up in the comments!Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-72114699147394877792015-09-28T13:20:00.002-07:002015-09-28T13:20:44.030-07:00An Apple A Day (and a few great books!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IiJrwGKBEFU/Vgmfk8KuknI/AAAAAAAADFs/nxAAnn_8oPk/s1600/IMG_1902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IiJrwGKBEFU/Vgmfk8KuknI/AAAAAAAADFs/nxAAnn_8oPk/s400/IMG_1902.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Apple picking season is in full swing, and we (like everyone else and their mamas) went to the orchard this weekend. We brought home two pecks of apples, a half dozen cider donuts, and a bunch of gorgeous pumpkins in all shades, shapes and sizes. Fall is one of my favorite times of year, not just for the weather, foliage, and food, but for the projects. September is such an awesome time to be home crafting, reading and cooking with littles, and we do lots of it. Since we have so many apples on hand (as I'm sure some of you do), it's time for some baking, reading, and science(ing?).<br />
<br />
Today we did the obvious apple sauce, since all the littlers were sleeping and it was just Jude and I. He's grown to be a great kitchen helper, so apple sauce only takes about half an hour. He got his own set of kitchen knives for his birthday this past year, and they are awesome. I do the peeling and coring, he did the chopping all by himself. The nice thing about apple sauce is that the size of the apples makes no difference,unlike with a pie, so messy chopping is all good! I highly recommend these knives if you have a toddler who wants to help in the kitchen!<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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxL_atzJclU/VgmXrTutcQI/AAAAAAAADFA/xMyMwf1IsFg/s1600/curious-chef-knives.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxL_atzJclU/VgmXrTutcQI/AAAAAAAADFA/xMyMwf1IsFg/s400/curious-chef-knives.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Curious-Chef-3-Piece-Nylon-Knife/dp/B002Q5YH9C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443469138&sr=8-1&keywords=kid+chef+knives" target="_blank">Curious Chef Knives via Amazon</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We make our favorite apple sauce every year, and it's so simple it's hardly a recipe. We fill a Dutch oven with the peeled chopped apples (I used a full peck of apples), the rind of one lemon (try to keep the peel in one piece so it's easy to remove later), 1 tsp. of cinnamon and a 1/4 tsp. of nutmeg. Squeeze the lemon juice over and bring to a boil over medium high heat. Reduce the heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally until apples are softened and break down easily. You can mash it with the back of a spoon or puree with an immersion blender if you wish. This yields about a quart and a pint of applesauce, which goes really fast around here! <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
While we make our apple sauce we always talk a little about irreversible change, observe the differences in our apples from start to finish, and review kitchen safety, too. There's a cute episode of Sid the Science kid that uses apple sauce as a science experiment, just in case you have Netflix! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We also read a few new appley books today, and there are so many out there! I grabbed a few at the library yesterday, and was so happy that they turned out to be great ones! We started with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Apple-Pie-ABC-Alison-Murray/dp/1423166299/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443469957&sr=8-1&keywords=abc+apple+pie" target="_blank">Apple Pie ABC</a> by Allison Murray, which is a quick board book with adorable illustrations and some great new vocab. Jude now knows "ogle," "pine." and "determined!" It follows a little dog through the alphabet while he tries to get a slice of the apple pie his owner has baked and not shared with her little pup.</div>
<div>
<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://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rTM9rGrDR-g/VgmaBJW72XI/AAAAAAAADFM/2p4epbBi3ls/s1600/ApplePie1280x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rTM9rGrDR-g/VgmaBJW72XI/AAAAAAAADFM/2p4epbBi3ls/s640/ApplePie1280x1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Apple-Pie-ABC-Alison-Murray/dp/1423166299/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443469957&sr=8-1&keywords=abc+apple+pie" target="_blank">Apple Pie ABC via Amazon</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The next book was <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rain-Makes-Applesauce-Julian-Scheer/dp/0823400913/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443469628&sr=8-1&keywords=rain+makes+applesauce" target="_blank">Rain Makes Applesauce</a> which I chose by the cover (shame on the teacher in me). It's lovely, just lovely. The illustrations are beautiful, the story is so clever and creative, and Jude loved the silly parts. It's like it came straight from a child's imagination. I'm ordering a copy!</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UaJdSaPp4JM/VgmaxlN-ZCI/AAAAAAAADFU/FsNxT-EQYow/s1600/rainmakesapplesauce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UaJdSaPp4JM/VgmaxlN-ZCI/AAAAAAAADFU/FsNxT-EQYow/s640/rainmakesapplesauce.jpg" width="435" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rain-Makes-Applesauce-Julian-Scheer/dp/0823400913/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443470200&sr=8-1&keywords=rain+makes+applesauce" target="_blank">Rain Makes Applesauce via Amazon</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />The last book is not apple themed, but it's a cookbook and it has a great Apple Charlotte recipe in it! If you love Mary Poppins or quirky stories like I do, the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Poppins-Kitchen-Cookery-Story/dp/0152060804/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443470266&sr=8-1&keywords=MAry+poppins+in+the+kitchen" target="_blank">Mary Poppins in the Kitchen</a> will be a favorite. It's definitely for the older set, but I read the first chapter aloud to Jude today and he loved it. We will likely do a chapter a day and try to bake as many of the recipes as we can. We're going to make the Apple Charlotte for tonight's dessert!<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/-nJC1G7g9cic/VgmcKPnsIdI/AAAAAAAADFg/JBvNDVV4K3o/s1600/marypoppins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nJC1G7g9cic/VgmcKPnsIdI/AAAAAAAADFg/JBvNDVV4K3o/s640/marypoppins.jpg" width="499" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Poppins-Kitchen-Cookery-Story/dp/0152060804/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443470266&sr=8-1&keywords=MAry+poppins+in+the+kitchen" target="_blank">Mary Poppins in the Kitchen via Amazon</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What are some of your favorite books to read this time of year? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Please let me know so I can add them to our book list!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have yet to do a new apple craft project, but we did a ton of apple stamping last year. We did mini tote bags, lunch bags and pencil cases for party favors, and they are so cute and easy! It's a "hardly any prep" craft, so I'm sure we'll do it again this year! </div>
<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/-4oPlOMpxYco/Vgmg4HCCGrI/AAAAAAAADF0/IS15F9WhnzY/s1600/IMG_1903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4oPlOMpxYco/Vgmg4HCCGrI/AAAAAAAADF0/IS15F9WhnzY/s640/IMG_1903.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-50755442448589415262015-09-16T12:20:00.003-07:002015-09-16T12:21:07.476-07:00One Last Hoorah and a Crazy Cannoli Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hohxp4RWKp4/Vfm9rlzW6OI/AAAAAAAADEA/iRlfFtSS-yU/s1600/cannoli%2Bcake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hohxp4RWKp4/Vfm9rlzW6OI/AAAAAAAADEA/iRlfFtSS-yU/s640/cannoli%2Bcake.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
My next 5 Day Clean Eating Challenge begins tomorrow, and how did I spend my weekend? Making this cake of course. This mouth watering, over the top, totally swoon worthy cake. My neighbor turns 30 today (BABY! I feel like 30 was so long ago) and his lovely wife asked me to bake him a cake. Cannoli are his favorite, but of course, I have never made or eaten a cannoli cake. As with all new things, I had to go overboard. I looked at a bunch of recipes and pictures for ideas, and then put together a bunch of my own favorite family recipes to put together this cake. My grandmother's cannoli cream, my mom's vanilla cake, and my aunt's chocolate cake were added to a frosting I made up on the fly and Bakerella's ganache (it's better than Martha's!).<br />
<br />
My issue with cannoli has always been that they are too sweet! This cannoli cream isn't overly sweet, and the frosting isn't either, even with all of that sugar. The cinnamon and lemon zest really help cut the sweetness, and the ganache adds a richness that is decadent, but not toothache inducing. While this cake does take time to put together, I promise you that it's worth it. When you need a showstopper for a special event, this is the cake. Trust.<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.getrealgal.com/2014/04/a-sprinkle-and-strawberry-cream-cake.html" target="_blank">One recipe vanilla cake</a> baked in 8 inch round cake pans and cooled. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Chocolate Cake (it's vegan!)</b></span></span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; clear: both; line-height: 18.48px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 2/3 cups flour</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/4 cup cocoa</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 cup brown sugar</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 tsp. baking soda</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 tsp. salt</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 tsp. vanilla</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 cup water</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/3 cup vegetable oil</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 tsp. white vinegar</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; clear: both; line-height: 18.48px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees and spray</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> an 8 inch round cake pan with cooking spray. Line the bottom with parchment. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Whisk all dry ingredients in a large bowl. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Add wet ingredients and whisk until combined. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pour into prepared pan and b</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">ake for 25 minutes or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pan before inverting. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i></i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i></i></span><div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i></i></span><div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i></i></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;" /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Cannoli Cream Filling</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4 cups whole milk ricotta cheese</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 1/2 cups powdered sugar</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 tsp. ground cinnamon</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/4 tsp freshly ground nutmeg</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 cup heavy cream</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">zest of one lemon</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 cup mini semi sweet chocolate chips</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Beat ricotta in a large bowl until fluffy and smooth. Sift in sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg and beat to combine. In a second bowl, beat cream until fairly stiff. Fold cream into ricotta mixture. Fold in lemon zest and chips.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Ganache (from Bakerella)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">3/4 cup heavy cream</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">1/4 cup butter</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Heat cream and butter in a saucepan over medium high heat until melted and remove before it starts to boil. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Place chocolate morsels in a small bowl and pour cream on top. Let sit for a two minutes before whisking by hand until completely smooth. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Let cool until thick and pourable, more like fudge sauce than chocolate syrup (you can put it into the fridge to speed this up). </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Just use a whisk to stir it occasionally!</span><br />
<br />
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cannoli Frosting</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 cups vegetable </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">shortening</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 lbs. powdered sugar</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 -1/3 c. milk</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 tsp. vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 tsp. cinnamon</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/8 tsp. freshly ground nutmeg</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">zest of a lemon</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In a large bowl, beat shortening until fluffy. Sift in half of the powdered sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Add 1/4 c. of milk and beat to combine. Gradually add more sugar and/or milk until you reach the desired consistency. I prefer a stiffer frosting when piping roses, but a fluffier frosting for crumb coating, so it is up to you! Fold in lemon zest at the end.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">ASSEMBLY:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Slice your chocolate and vanilla cake rounds into two layers. Place one vanilla layer on your plate and pipe a thick circle of frosting around the outside edge. This will keep your cannoli </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">cream from sneaking out!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q36yvOl3S6Q/VfnAZI1JOPI/AAAAAAAADEg/hxqPaPi5TpA/s1600/cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q36yvOl3S6Q/VfnAZI1JOPI/AAAAAAAADEg/hxqPaPi5TpA/s400/cake.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Fill the circle with cannoli cream and lay a chocolate cake layer on top. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cr4ycPPpbG0/VfnATka55qI/AAAAAAAADEY/NGUNHRbia2E/s1600/ricotta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cr4ycPPpbG0/VfnATka55qI/AAAAAAAADEY/NGUNHRbia2E/s400/ricotta.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Repeat for each desired layer (the cake pictured had lots of travel to do, so it was only three layers!). Crumb coat the cake and refrigerate for at least an hour. Remove the cake and cover with a smooth layer of frosting. Whisk ganache to be sure it is smooth and pour slowly from the center of the cake to allow a small amount to drip over the sides. You won't need it all! If you choose to decorate with a cannoli, just fill with extra cannoli cream, pipe a few frosting roses or stars in the center and top with your cannoli.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Got extras? Little cannoli cream filled cupcakes are amaaazzziiing:) </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlXbGFBGrEg/Vfm9tfzzVpI/AAAAAAAADEM/eAr64QISM7k/s1600/cannoli%2Bcupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlXbGFBGrEg/Vfm9tfzzVpI/AAAAAAAADEM/eAr64QISM7k/s640/cannoli%2Bcupcakes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-9645894107889183352015-08-25T13:19:00.002-07:002015-08-25T13:22:04.244-07:00My Shakeology Top 15!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vz4VNc3Y3Hg/VdzNfX_C7HI/AAAAAAAADC0/Kc3Wv7NUndI/s1600/Shakeology.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="618" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vz4VNc3Y3Hg/VdzNfX_C7HI/AAAAAAAADC0/Kc3Wv7NUndI/s640/Shakeology.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After Eden was born and Jude started pre school, I found myself in a funk. Scrambling to get out the door with a newbie and a pre schooler oftentimes ended in a hot mess. I would grab a banana on my way out, inhale it at drop off, and then run home to get the baby to bed. Queue the mad mama nap rush of trying to vacuum floors, fold clothes, pick up messes and every other thing that you can think of doing before the baby wakes up. You know the drill. Then suddently I had to pick up Jude. And I forgot to eat. So now I'm crazed, hangry mama at the Dunin Donuts drive thru. Large iced cookie dough extra extra and a bagel with cream cheese? Yes, please. Aaaand here comes the crash by lunchtime where I clean my kids' plates of leftover macaroni and cheese. Something had to giiiive.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For me the answer came in the form of my adorbs little friend Allison, a Texan whom we befriended in Michigan before we moved to the Jerz. She introduced me to Shakeology, and BOOM. This chick was hooked. No more hangry morning rush, no more Dunkin runs in desperation, no more day long bingeing and shitty food choices. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I started with vanilla and quickly branched out. I love variety, and I love food, so I needed to have an arsenal of options. Almost a year of drinking Shakeology has led me to a handful of favorites, and I'm constantly coming up with new things. Inspiration is all over, like the <a href="http://www.foodbeast.com/news/tella-ball-shake/" target="_blank">Australian Nutella Bella Milkshake</a> that exploded the internet a few weeks back. Yeah, I had to have that. And now you can, too, but with the added benefits of super foods and protein and zero guilt. You're welcome.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So here they are! My top 5 favorite Shakeology recipes for each of my three favorite flavors:) No pudding powders, no added sugars, no added fats. Like any recipe, you may want to play with measurements, since I generally eyeball it. You may like your shake thicker, or colder, so add whatever amount of liquid or ice ou need to fit your taste.<br />
<br />
Have some favorites of your own? I'd love to see them!<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-102OChgMWtQ/VdzGwEfd4RI/AAAAAAAADCc/bCiSifrgFMY/s1600/Nutella%2BDonut%2BShakeology.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-102OChgMWtQ/VdzGwEfd4RI/AAAAAAAADCc/bCiSifrgFMY/s320/Nutella%2BDonut%2BShakeology.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THIS.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<b>Chocolate</b></div>
<div>
<i>Black Forest</i></div>
<div>
Scoop of chocolate shakeology</div>
<div>
1 c. pitted cherries</div>
<div>
8 oz. almond milk</div>
<div>
ice</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Almond Joy</i></div>
<div>
Scoop of chocolate shakeology</div>
<div>
1/2 tsp. almond extract</div>
<div>
1/4 c almonds</div>
<div>
8 oz. coconut milk</div>
<div>
1/4 c. flaked unsweetened coconut</div>
<div>
ice</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Sea Salt Caramel</i></div>
<div>
Scoop of chocolate shakeology</div>
<div>
1/8 tsp. caramel extract</div>
<div>
8 oz. almond milk</div>
<div>
dash of sea salt</div>
<div>
ice</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hkZ87KLIFOg/VdzG_U_oCoI/AAAAAAAADCk/2HwxkbjkN7Y/s1600/Awful%2Bawful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hkZ87KLIFOg/VdzG_U_oCoI/AAAAAAAADCk/2HwxkbjkN7Y/s320/Awful%2Bawful.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Instead of THIS!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<i>Samoa</i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of chocolate </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
8 oz coconut milk</div>
<div>
1/4 c. flaked, unsweetened coconut</div>
<div>
1/2 tsp caramel extract</div>
<div>
ice</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Vanilla</b></div>
<i>Nutella Donut Shakeology</i><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of vanilla </span>shakeology</span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tsp Drostes Cocoa</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 whole wheat graham cracker</span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">6 oz. almond milk </span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">6 oz. cold water</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 c. hazelnuts</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 tsp each cinnamon and vanilla extract</span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ice </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>The Elvis</i></span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of vanilla </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
8 oz. almond milk</div>
<div>
1 frozen banana</div>
<div>
1 Tbls peanut butter</div>
<div>
1/2 tsp. cinnamon</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Frappucino</i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of vanilla </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
1 cup coffee ice cubes</div>
<div>
8 oz vanilla almond milk</div>
<div>
1/2 tsp. chai spice</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Pumpkin Spice</i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of vanilla </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
1/4 cup pumpkin puree</div>
<div>
1 tsp. cinnamon</div>
<div>
dash of nutmeg</div>
<div>
drizzle of raw honey</div>
<div>
8 oz. almond milk</div>
<div>
ice</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Vanilla Berry</i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of vanilla </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
1 cup frozen berries and kale (Waldman's makes a great mix!)</div>
<div>
8 oz. vanilla almond milk</div>
<div>
dash of cinnamon</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Strawberry</b></div>
<div>
<i>Vacation Mode</i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of strawberry </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
8 oz. coconut water (fresh is awesome!)</div>
<div>
1/2 frozen banana</div>
<div>
1/2 c. pineapple</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Citrus Burst</i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of strawberry </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
1 clementine</div>
<div>
1/2 cup pineapple</div>
<div>
8 oz. cold water </div>
<div>
ice</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Strawberry Mojito</i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of strawberry </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
1/4 cup mint leaves</div>
<div>
8 oz water</div>
<div>
ice</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Strawberry Cheesecake</i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of strawberry </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
1/2 c. cottage cheese</div>
<div>
8 oz. vanilla almond milk</div>
<div>
dash of cinnamon</div>
<div>
ice</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberry</i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 16.0799999237061px;">Scoop of strawberry </span>shakeology</div>
<div>
1 tsp. dark cocoa powder</div>
<div>
8 oz. almond milk</div>
<div>
1 cup coffee ice cubes</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-88227045981668181522015-08-03T19:14:00.003-07:002015-08-03T19:14:55.656-07:00Clean Grillin'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZ6s_r8nhp4/VcAePbg3HpI/AAAAAAAAC-I/XAkKab1Z5mQ/s1600/Eggplant%2Bparm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZ6s_r8nhp4/VcAePbg3HpI/AAAAAAAAC-I/XAkKab1Z5mQ/s640/Eggplant%2Bparm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Today is the first day of my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1081918461820268/1087703391241775/?notif_t=like" target="_blank">5 Day Clean Eating Challenge</a>! I can't believe it, but over 100 people have joined the group, and so far we are off to a great start. This dish above is the lip smackin' first dinner, and it's a keeper. Grilled Chicken and Eggplant Parmesan, fresh grilled tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella. Drooool. I kept the pasta (whole wheat here, but you can do quinoa, garbanzo, rice, whatever) because my kids, heck, most kids, love pasta, and I didn't want to overwhelm anyone with a super strict meal plan the first go-round! Yes, I know pasta is processed, as is cheese, cooked oats, whatever. For this challenge the focus is more about limiting the processed foods and making healthier choices, not banning them entirely, You just have to decide where to draw the line for yourself, and start there! I'd start with this dish. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is so good, you won't miss that greasy breaded crust at all, Not one bit.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "CF Jack Story"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Grilled
Chicken and Eggplant Parmesan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "CF Jack Story"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4 chicken
breasts, sliced in half lengthwise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 large
eggplant, peeled and sliced crosswise 1/4 inch thick<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4 large
tomatoes, sliced crosswise 1/4 inch thick<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Extra-virgin
olive oil, for brushing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Salt,
Pepper, Cayenne Pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 clove
minced garlic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1/4 cup
finely shredded basil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">6 ounces
mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">WW Pasta
of your choice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fire
roasted tomatoes, 1 can<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Optional
seasonings: dried oregano, red pepper flakes, thyme<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'CF Jack Story'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'CF Jack Story'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Preparation:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Heat up
your grill and set oven temperature to 450 degrees. Brush the chicken, eggplant
and tomato slices with olive oil and season lightly with cayenne, salt and
pepper. Grill the chicken until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Grill eggplant
over moderately high heat, turning once, until softened and lightly charred,
about 4 minutes. Grill the tomatoes, turning once, until lightly charred but
still intact, about 2 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Line a
large baking dish with parchment paper or grease with a little oil. In the
center, arrange half of the eggplant and chicken, overlapping the slices slightly.
Top with half of the grilled tomatoes, sprinkle with half the basil and mozzarella.
Repeat with the remaining ingredients, ending with the cheese. Bake in the
center of the oven for about 10 minutes, until bubbling and golden. Boil pasta
while eggplant bakes. Drain and toss with canned tomatoes, garlic, additional
seasonings of your choice and reserved basil. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Print Clearly"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">NOTE – Do you have a cast iron pan? If so you
can skip the oven! Layer your ingredients in the cast iron pan after grilling
and put it back on the grill over low heat. Lower the lid and let bake for
about 8-10 minutes. You can even put the pasta and tomato in the bottom of the
pan and then layer your ingredients on top!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-48904065771015127132015-07-26T12:22:00.003-07:002015-07-26T12:23:01.437-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jqg5Lduahj8/VbUzWCDMSoI/AAAAAAAAC9o/VzZK8rHhZRA/s1600/eden%2Beats%2Bclean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jqg5Lduahj8/VbUzWCDMSoI/AAAAAAAAC9o/VzZK8rHhZRA/s640/eden%2Beats%2Bclean.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Yeah, I know. I've been lax again. Kids. Life. Work, y'know? Nooooot gonna beat myself up about it.<br />
<br />
We are in full summer swing, which around here means hanging at the lake, driving up to Rhody beaches and eating everything in sight. I mean it. I've been eating everything in sight. We recently did our annual beach rental and I can't even believe how off the rockers we went with food. We hosted BBQs and went out often. Clam cakes and New England clam chowder, beer, Allie's donuts, pizza strips, potato salad, ice cream from Aunt Carrie's, beer, hotdogs, Cheese Balls, and did I mention the beer? I came home feeling like a depressed slug. The entire next week I was exhausted. I couldn't keep up with my toddler and I was snappy with everyone. It sucked. I knew it was time for a quick reset. I joined a girlfriend's challenge group to get back into my regular eating and exercising plan and I felt better in just a few days. 7 days in and I have even lost a couple of inches (probably inches of beer).<br />
<br />
In talking with a few friends I realized they were all in the same shame filled boat, too. Since I'm a planner and a bit food obsessed (duh), I thought it would be fun to do a challenge group of my own! I would make a meal plan, shopping list and recipe file! Fun! 5 days, clean foods, kid friendly. Easy right? I opened a group, invited some pals on Facebook, and within a few days 60 people had joined. 60. Fuck. I began to get performance anxiety and to freak out about pleasing 60 people. Then I thought, "Shoot. I don't give a shit. If these 60 people throw out one gross food item and find 1 new thing they like eating this week, great. Goal accomplished." So the more the merrier!<br />
<br />
Want in? Here's what is involved:<br />
- Pledge to eat clean for 5 days, August 3-7th<br />
- Follow the provided meal plan for the 5 days (to the best of your ability)<br />
- Complete the daily check-ins to enter yourself for prizes!<br />
<br />
Click on this link to add yo'self: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1081918461820268/" target="_blank">August Clean Eating Challenge</a><br />
<br />
I'll be posting the recipes here too, so if you aren't a joiner, you can still eat like one.Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-64863437677788052692015-03-13T14:16:00.005-07:002015-03-13T14:17:05.152-07:00Milk Maid<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u6gQZ8UUMDA/VQNTjkhGlKI/AAAAAAAAC6U/WW5o85vfBb0/s1600/IMG_8624%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u6gQZ8UUMDA/VQNTjkhGlKI/AAAAAAAAC6U/WW5o85vfBb0/s1600/IMG_8624%5B1%5D.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's all about the boobs once again in the Bean household. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2011/11/booby-list.html" target="_blank">Nursing Jude</a> was an amazing journey, one that I am still immensely proud of, but one that wasn't always simple. We had our early struggles, but finding Boobie Group was my saving grace. Those 12 ladies are my Jersey fam, and without them I would certainly not be where I am now. Nursing Eden has been smooth sailing so far, so I only popped into a group meeting once for the Valentine's Day party, and then only because my badass doula would be there. That woman is the BOMB. Anywho, I started off on the right foot nursing partly because I never had any supply issues this time around. One of the main reasons is that I knew how much extra water I had to drink, knew what foods to avoid and increase, and also (<i>and best!</i>) because I had Boobie Cookies. My friend Amy makes the. best. lactation cookies, and she brought a dozen over when we brought Eden home. One a day and I was good to go. Little lady is a satisfied babe. However. a cookie a day, no matter how much it supports milk production, is still a cookie a day. Full of butter, sugar, and chocolate, those bad boys weren't going to get me into skinny jeans any quicker.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mdw34oxPulg/VQNTGqye5-I/AAAAAAAAC6E/sWZ_T6KaWOk/s1600/Healthful-Mama_What-to-Eat-when-Breastfeeding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mdw34oxPulg/VQNTGqye5-I/AAAAAAAAC6E/sWZ_T6KaWOk/s1600/Healthful-Mama_What-to-Eat-when-Breastfeeding.jpg" height="256" width="320" /></a>I needed to find a substitute and fast. I stumbled upon a delicious looking oatmeal muffin recipe from <a href="http://www.vintagekidsmodernworld.com/2012/04/soaked-buttermilk-oatmeal-muffins-the-recipe-youve-been-waiting-for-your-entire-life-dairy-free-options/" target="_blank">Vintage Kids, Modern World</a>, and got to baking. I wanted to add in the go to ingredients for milk production (brewer's yeast, flax seed, and fenugreek) and take it another step. I added carrots and walnuts for an an extra boost, used honey for sweetness and swapped in coconut oil for a healthier fat (visit <a href="http://healthfulmama.com/2012/05/what-to-eat-what-to-avoid-while-breastfeeding/" target="_blank">Healthful Mama</a> for explanations about this list!). The result is a hearty, healthy muffin that is lightly sweet and super effective for increasing your supply. With no guilt. Promise.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Carrot Cake Oatmeal Boobie Muffins (to promote healthy lactation)</b><br />
<i>Ingredients</i><b>:</b><br />
<i>makes 1 dozen muffins</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-auUYqLuEEco/VQNTcwwE4PI/AAAAAAAAC6M/YArjw1n4tJU/s1600/IMG_8619%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-auUYqLuEEco/VQNTcwwE4PI/AAAAAAAAC6M/YArjw1n4tJU/s1600/IMG_8619%5B1%5D.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
1 c. rolled oats<br />
1 c. whole wheat flour<br />
4 Tbls. flax seed meal<br />
4 Tbls. Brewers yeast<br />
1 tsp. cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp. nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp. kosher salt<br />
1/2 tsp. baking soda<br />
1 tsp. baking powder<br />
1 tsp. vanilla<br />
1/2 c. coconut oil, melted<br />
1 egg<br />
1 c. buttermilk<br />
1 c. shredded carrot (about two medium carrots)<br />
1/2 cup chopped walnuts<br />
1/2 c. golden raisins<br />
1/2 c. dried pineapple, chopped<br />
<br />
<i>Preparation</i>:<br />
Whisk flour and oats together in a medium bowl and pour buttermilk over. Refrigerate at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease or line muffin tin. Add all ingredients except carrot, nuts, and raisins and blend until well combined. Fold in carrots, nuts, and raisins. Divide evenly among muffin tins and bake 12 -15 minutes or until just golden. Cool on a wire rack. Freeze any muffins you will not consume in a day or two!<br />
<br />
<br />Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-45256799970470878752015-03-10T13:18:00.001-07:002015-03-10T13:22:59.100-07:00Lucky Treats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JpbsCcTKdWk/VP9N0LWszHI/AAAAAAAAC5g/T_ijYX-y5EM/s1600/IMG_8588%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JpbsCcTKdWk/VP9N0LWszHI/AAAAAAAAC5g/T_ijYX-y5EM/s1600/IMG_8588%5B1%5D.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yikes. So you remember that <a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2015/03/happy-birthday-daddy-o.html" target="_blank">cereal milk buttercream frosting</a> I made for E's birthday cake? Well, as big as the cake was, I still had at least a full cup of sticky goodness left over after frosting it. You know how much I hate to waste things. I just couldn't throw it away, and while I'm not above putting frosting on... oh, maybe a waffle at breakfast, or even (gasp!) stirring a spoonful into a hot cup of coffee, enough was enough. It had to go. Of course, there was also an almost full box of Lucky Charms sitting waiting for someone to liberate it. See, as much as E loved them as a kid, after his birthday breakfast was over they went into the cabinet of shame next to the Oreos. I've been doing a <a href="http://www.whitehouseblackshutters.com/40-bags-in-40-days-2015/" target="_blank">40 Bags in 40 Days challenge</a> for Lent, and the kitchen pantry is one of the areas that needed unloading. Any half boxes of anything, any past expiration date cans, anything I bought thinking it would be useful (or worse, because <i>it was on sale</i>!) went out! I donated a bag to the food pantry at church and a bunch went straight into the trash. That big box of marshmallow ick? Into cookies. Where else? I used my favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe for the base and went from there. And even if these cookies are the size of my hand, I just had to sandwich them together with a big shmear of cereal milk buttercream. And then I gave them all away. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
<b>Lucky Charms Sandwich Cookies</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
<i>Ingredients:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
3/4 cup raw sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
1/4 cup dark brown sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
1/2 cup granulated sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
1 large egg, at room temperature</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
1 tsp. baking soda</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
1/2 tsp. kosher salt</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
2 cups Bob's Red Mill White Whole Wheat Flour</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
1/4 cup whole wheat flour</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract </div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
2 cups Lucky Charms cereal</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
1 cup of <a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2015/03/happy-birthday-daddy-o.html" target="_blank">Cereal Milk Buttercream</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
<i>Preparation:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat butter and sugar until fluffy and pale. Add egg and almond extract and beat until just combined. Sift flour, baking soda, and salt and add to the mixer at low speed. Scrape the bowl and mix until just combined. Fold in cereal. Drop dough by rounded spoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets and bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden. Allow to cool for five minutes on the sheet before transferring to wire racks. Smear cookies with a generous tablespoon (or two!) of buttercream and sandwich together.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kosYt-ki3ro/VP9RgFBFHoI/AAAAAAAAC5s/PpwdkvkNeQM/s1600/lucky%2Bcookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kosYt-ki3ro/VP9RgFBFHoI/AAAAAAAAC5s/PpwdkvkNeQM/s1600/lucky%2Bcookies.jpg" height="443" width="640" /></a></div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-10910219426301734862015-03-05T11:25:00.001-08:002015-03-05T11:25:53.579-08:00Happy Birthday, Daddy-o!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8e_wJBeB2rM/VPitOnosuwI/AAAAAAAAC44/GabdswM83RY/s1600/Cereal%2BCake3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8e_wJBeB2rM/VPitOnosuwI/AAAAAAAAC44/GabdswM83RY/s1600/Cereal%2BCake3.JPG" height="524" width="640" /></a>E and I are now both officially in our mid thirties. I know. That isn't old. But just saying "mid thirties" feels old<i>er</i>. Like maybe I should stop saying "totes" and give away all of my mini skirts.<br />
<br />
Not like anyone who bakes and eats cake like this has any right to be wearing mini skirts anyway. This delicious monstrosity is a straight to the hips, thighs, and butt cheeks delight. It was that goooood.<br />
<br />
Jude is pretty adorable (just look at the grin!), but he's also pretty darn sweet. When we started talking about E's birthday, he said he wanted to bake a cake.<br />
<br />
"What kind?" I asked.<br />
<br />
"Cereal and Milk Cake. With bananas!"<br />
<br />
Hmm. Ok, kiddo. At least he didn't say, "with sardines."<br />
<br />
I did a little thinking and decided we would bake a roasted banana layer cake and make some <a href="http://milkbarstore.com/main/press/recipes-and-how-tos/" target="_blank">Momofuku </a>cereal milk for the frosting. It still needed something extra to put it into special birthday terrotory though. The next morning Jude asked E what his favorite cereal was when he was a kid. Cocoa Pebbles and Lucky Charms. Ick. In our house growing up, Honey Nut Cheerios were a big treat.<br />
<br />
Jude took his first trip down the sugary cereal aisle of the<br />
grocery store that afternoon, and he was astounded.<br />
He had no idea what anything was. I had to answer way too many questions about cartoon Tigers and Vampires for<br />
one day. He was so excited about the Lucky Charms<br />
marshmallows that he could hardly keep still in the cart.<br />
That box we wrapped up for E's birthday breakfast, but the Cocoa Pebbles were the perfect last detail for the cake.<br />
It was crunchy and crumbly on the outside and gooey and sweet inside. The best birthday cake ever, and it was all the boy's idea.<br />
<br />
<b>Roasted Banana Birthday Cake with Cereal Milk Buttercream</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<i>For the Cereal Milk (from Momofuku Milk Bar)</i><br />
<i>Ingredients:</i><br />
2 3/4 c. cornflakes<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ArWKl1m2Tk4/VPitH0xV4hI/AAAAAAAAC4w/olKSizo_09U/s1600/Cereal%2BCake2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ArWKl1m2Tk4/VPitH0xV4hI/AAAAAAAAC4w/olKSizo_09U/s1600/Cereal%2BCake2.JPG" height="345" width="400" /></a>33/4 c. cold milk<br />
2 Tbls. brown sugar<br />
1/4 tsp. kosher salt<br />
<br />
<i>Preparation: </i><br />
Heat oven to 300 degrees. Spread cornflakes on a parchment lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake 15 minutes until toasted. Cool completely.<br />
Pour cooled cornflakes into a large pitcher. Pour milk over and stir well. Allow to soak at room temperature for 20 minutes.<br />
Strain through a fine seive, whisk in brown sugar and salt.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>For the Buttercream:</i><br />
1/4 cup cereal milk<br />
1 stick unsalted butter, softened<br />
1 c. vegetable shortening<br />
1 lb. powdered sugar<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Preparation:</i><br />
In a large bowl, beat butter and shortening until fluffy. Add 1 cup of sugar and 2 Tbls. of cereal milk and beat again, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed. Add another cup of sugar and 2 Tbls or cereal milk and beat. Continue these additions until the buttercream reaches the desired consistency, you may not use all of the milk or sugar! I like it a bit stiff, so I use almost all of it:)<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>For the Cake:</i><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-45ogaHa3LaY/VPijbc41QtI/AAAAAAAAC4g/99JLFyG6jAg/s1600/Cereal%2BCake1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-45ogaHa3LaY/VPijbc41QtI/AAAAAAAAC4g/99JLFyG6jAg/s1600/Cereal%2BCake1.JPG" height="400" width="323" /></a>2 ripe bananas<br />
2 1/4 c. all purpose flour<br />
1/2 tsp. baking powder<br />
1 tsp. baking soda<br />
1 tsp. kosher salt<br />
1 1/2 c. raw sugar<br />
1/2 c. buttermilk<br />
1 tsp. vanilla extract<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 stick unsalted butter, softened<br />
1/2 c. vegetable oil (or coconut oil)<br />
Extra Cereal Milk<br />
2-3 c.Cocoa Pebbles<br />
<br />
<i>Preparation:</i><br />
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place whole bananas on a baking sheet and roast until blackened, 15-20 minutes. Peel and cool.<br />
<br />
Reduce oven heat to 350. Grease two 9 inch round cake pans. Sift flour, salt, soda, and powder into a medium bowl. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add bananas, oil, extract, and beat until just combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating between additions. Add 1/3 flour mixture and mix until just combined, then mix in 1/2 buttermilk. Continue mixing and add next 1/3 of flour mixture, the rest of the buttermilk, then the rest of the flour mixture. Pour evenly into pans and bake 20-30 minutes or until golden. Tester should come out with crumbs stuck to it and cake should not be dry. Let cool 5 minutes in the pans and then turn onto a rack to cool completely.<br />
<br />
Place each cooled cake layer onto a rimmed dish. Pour half of the remaining cereal milk over each cake layer and refrigerate for an hour.<br />
<br />
To assemble, fold 1/2 cup of Cocoa Pebbles into 1/2 c. room temperature buttercream. Place one of the chilled cake layers onto a plate. Spread buttercream mixture over this layer and top with second layer. If the cake is too soft to lift, stick it in the freezer for half an hour before continuing! Spread a thin crumb coat of room temperature buttercream over the cake and return to the fridge for half an hour. Frost with remaining buttercream and cover sides with remaining Cocoa Pebbles.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ksLae4bqoXQ/VPic1ZCHKmI/AAAAAAAAC4Q/INS6Qo0bGhc/s1600/Daddy%2B35%2BBday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ksLae4bqoXQ/VPic1ZCHKmI/AAAAAAAAC4Q/INS6Qo0bGhc/s1600/Daddy%2B35%2BBday.jpg" height="622" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-84677961119021267182015-02-13T12:01:00.001-08:002015-02-17T11:17:15.126-08:00Cookies for the Kiddos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UKtmiLd7838/VOOTqUo17gI/AAAAAAAAC20/oVDlf85T5Ec/s1600/cookies.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UKtmiLd7838/VOOTqUo17gI/AAAAAAAAC20/oVDlf85T5Ec/s1600/cookies.png" height="394" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I used to think Valentine's Day was great. My mom always gave me and my siblings little Russel Stover boxes of candy which we'd squirrel away and nibble for weeks. She'd bake a heart shaped cake and let us stuff our faves. As boyfriend-less teenager I used to host "Lonely Hearts Club" parties at my house for all my single friends. I thought it was really great when I actually had a boyfriend to spend it with, but honestly, Valentine's Day is so much more fun with a toddler. Pretty much everything is so much more fun than a toddler.<br />
<br />
<i>Except maybe Whole Foods. I still really like Whole Foods alone. </i><br />
<br />
Jude thinks all holidays are fun, especially the food. We just had to host a party for his buddies from class. I am all for little treats for kiddos once in a while, but I'm not about to offer up a sugar coma as a party favor to all of the kids who come to our craft classes. Jude really wanted to decorate cookies with his friends, and he was googly eyed over t<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VtdNCkzgIvY/VN5TH7PhgqI/AAAAAAAAC14/g2R2EzA0kH4/s1600/IMG_8278%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VtdNCkzgIvY/VN5TH7PhgqI/AAAAAAAAC14/g2R2EzA0kH4/s1600/IMG_8278%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
he vast selection of candies and sprinkles in the grocery store (he has a thing for sprinkles, just like his mama). To assuage a bit of my guilt about the oncoming candy head rush, I made this healthier version of my favorite rolled sugar cookie recipe. It cuts the sugar, replaces white flour with whole wheat, and the cream cheese keeps it soft and buttery. The dough is really great for detailed cut cookies since it won't spread at all, but we stuck with simple hearts. I kept them small, and whipped up a bowl of cream cheese with a little homemade strawberry syrup for frosting. The bowls of sprinkles, pink candy corn, and conversation hearts were plenty of sugar without using real frosting! Of course, I used a little royal icing for the leftover cookies later, just because I can't resist that glossy look:)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #ef9b7a; font-family: HelveticaNeueLTStd55Roman, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333330154419px; line-height: 18.6666660308838px; list-style-type: none; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1kmTWaQatnU/VN5TRD5UBbI/AAAAAAAAC2A/sY2Tg7M3WWw/s1600/IMG_8279%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1kmTWaQatnU/VN5TRD5UBbI/AAAAAAAAC2A/sY2Tg7M3WWw/s1600/IMG_8279%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;"><b><br /></b></span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;"><b>Healthier Whole Wheat Sugar Cookies</b></span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;"><b><i>Ingredients:</i></b></span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">4 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">1/2 cup raw cane sugar (organic if you can!)</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">1/2 cup maple sugar</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">1 teaspoon baking powder</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span style="color: #6a6a6a; font-size: 13.3333330154419px; line-height: 18.6666660308838px;">1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">1/4 teaspoon baking soda</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">Dash salt</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">1 tsp. almond extract</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">1 egg</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;">2-1/2 cups white whole wheat flour flour</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;"><br /></span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;"><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="color: #6a6a6a;"><b><i>Preparation:</i></b></span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<ul class="instructions" style="background-color: white; color: #ef9b7a; font-family: HelveticaNeueLTStd55Roman, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333330154419px; line-height: 18.6666660308838px; list-style-type: none; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;">Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuENqNANKyw/VN5YCj1DY3I/AAAAAAAAC2k/wwSBfk0Aavc/s1600/IMG_8268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuENqNANKyw/VN5YCj1DY3I/AAAAAAAAC2k/wwSBfk0Aavc/s1600/IMG_8268.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
and cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium to high speed until fluffy. <span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px; line-height: 18.6666660308838px;">Beat in almond extract and egg. </span>Add sugars, baking powder, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Beat mixture until combined, scraping side of bowl occasionally. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour. Divide dough in half, press into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for 1 to 2 hours or until dough is easy to handle.</li>
<li style="color: #686868; margin: 0px; padding: 3px 0px;">On a lightly floured surface, roll half of the dough at a time to a 1/8-inch thickness. Using 3-inch cookie cutters, cut out dough. Place cookies on prepped cookie sheets and b<span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px; line-height: 18.6666660308838px;">ake for 8-10 minutes or until edges just start to brown. Keep an eye on them as they cook very quickly! Transfer cookies to a wire rack; cool before decorating.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #6a6a6a; font-family: HelveticaNeueLTStd55Roman, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px; line-height: 18.6666660308838px;"><br /></span></span></div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-84496792953058983102015-02-03T12:08:00.001-08:002015-02-03T12:08:46.202-08:00Little Love Cakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgam9OrYfEc/VNEnlSh2X2I/AAAAAAAAC1A/nq1vfCCB0XU/s1600/Heart%2BCake1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgam9OrYfEc/VNEnlSh2X2I/AAAAAAAAC1A/nq1vfCCB0XU/s1600/Heart%2BCake1.JPG" height="640" width="587" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm getting into the Valentine's spirit a little early this year. Perhaps it's being cooped up in the house thanks to all of this snow, snuggling with my kiddos. Perhaps it's the hormones of a nursing mama with a cutie pie baby girl in her arms most of the day. Or perhaps it's the fact that a FULL MONTH of no sleep (damn you 4 month sleep regression. Damn you straight to hell!) has given me hallucinations that I have had to craft out of my system. Whatever it is, I am all good to go for the love fest. This little cupcake was my first attempt at baking a shape within a cake, and it was a bit of a miss. I need to cut the hearts smaller next time, but they are still cute! The recipe is a modified version of the <a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-beans-first-cake.html" target="_blank">French Yogurt Cake</a> Jude and I bake together often. It's one of my faves, and the lemon addition makes it fresh and new. It also pairs perfectly with strawberry whipped cream frosting! This is the best little cake to make with your kiddos, since it is forgiving and they can do all the measuring themselves! Remember that a spoon in this recipe equals a teaspoon, and a scoop equals 6 ounces, or one little kid yogurt cup, which we conveniently have lying around often!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jSCH7rZClQc/VNEnlT1IQMI/AAAAAAAAC08/fy4eC0BbmMA/s1600/Heart%2BCake2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jSCH7rZClQc/VNEnlT1IQMI/AAAAAAAAC08/fy4eC0BbmMA/s1600/Heart%2BCake2.JPG" height="488" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Little Lemon Love Cakes with Strawberry Whipped Cream</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Ingredients:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Cake: </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">3 scoops White whole wheat flour</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">2 scoops sugar</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">1 scoop plain, whole milk yogurt</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">1 scoop vegetable oil</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">1 spoon salt</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">3 spoons baking powder</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">1 spoon lemon extract</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">2 eggs</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">zest of one lemon</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Frosting:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 cup heavy cream</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4 Tbls. strawberry syrup or jam</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Preparation:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.0" style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 15.3599996566772px;"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.0.$end:0:$0:0"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Grease a 9x9 round cake pan and preheat the oven to 350 degrees. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.0" style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 15.3599996566772px;"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.0.$end:0:$0:0"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.0" style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 15.3599996566772px;"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.0.$end:0:$0:0">Allow your kiddo to do as much of the scooping and dumping as possible into a large bowl. Mix well with a hand mixer. Pour 1/3 of the batter into a small bowl and tint </span></span><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3" style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 15.3599996566772px;"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$0:0">with beet powder or food coloring. Pour the pink batter into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean, about 15 minutes. Allow to cool completely, then cut hearts using a small cookie cutter (or a knife and a template). Place each heart into a lined muffin tin, pour remaining batter over hearts. Bake until golden, about 12 minutes. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3" style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 15.3599996566772px;"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$0:0"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3" style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; line-height: 15.3599996566772px;"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0"><span data-reactid=".5j.1:3:1:$comment867672596586537_867732233247240:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1:$comment-body.0.3.0.$end:0:$0:0">Beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form, Fold in strawberry syrup. Pipe onto fully cooled cakes.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.3599996566772px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-58417950712501748652015-01-27T11:39:00.001-08:002015-01-27T11:40:01.007-08:00Hello Baby!Yeah soooo... this is officially the longest blog break I've ever taken. But really? Can you blame me?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qAYe84lkKv0/VMfoN4gumWI/AAAAAAAAC0E/4uvFyL3NqLc/s1600/eden%2B4%2Bmos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qAYe84lkKv0/VMfoN4gumWI/AAAAAAAAC0E/4uvFyL3NqLc/s1600/eden%2B4%2Bmos.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
4 months old already and this little lady is just too much fun! I will get back to posting all the cooking and crafting (which we've been doing like crazy!), but I'm taking it slow. The boy is doing a bang up job as a big bro, and I'm super proud. We're soaking it all up, so in the meantime, here's a little photo catch-up to tide you over!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tMMkXSv_aPQ/VMfpW3_6UNI/AAAAAAAAC0M/DzLDId5nY4E/s1600/announcement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tMMkXSv_aPQ/VMfpW3_6UNI/AAAAAAAAC0M/DzLDId5nY4E/s1600/announcement.jpg" height="320" 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://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B-z3yO4mdkE/VMfpY8PLMmI/AAAAAAAAC0c/pSgaeuhgm8g/s1600/oct%2B15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B-z3yO4mdkE/VMfpY8PLMmI/AAAAAAAAC0c/pSgaeuhgm8g/s1600/oct%2B15.jpg" height="320" 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://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZ3XVwJJg9A/VMfpX8VAjRI/AAAAAAAAC0U/vw3vnfM23Ok/s1600/3%2Bmos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZ3XVwJJg9A/VMfpX8VAjRI/AAAAAAAAC0U/vw3vnfM23Ok/s1600/3%2Bmos.jpg" height="320" 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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gvum0L6mhZg/VMfpZ2SoiyI/AAAAAAAAC0k/IIl-ASS8eNo/s1600/jude%2Band%2Beden%2B4%2Bmos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gvum0L6mhZg/VMfpZ2SoiyI/AAAAAAAAC0k/IIl-ASS8eNo/s1600/jude%2Band%2Beden%2B4%2Bmos.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Awwww...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-33607570328184671712014-08-19T11:47:00.001-07:002014-08-19T11:47:24.835-07:00The Big Freezer Stock Up - Round 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dygk7iDy5B0/U_ObcuUPlBI/AAAAAAAACvg/jjSfHg2mRIY/s1600/IMG_6687%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dygk7iDy5B0/U_ObcuUPlBI/AAAAAAAACvg/jjSfHg2mRIY/s1600/IMG_6687%5B1%5D.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
I mentioned that I have a chest freezer almost bursting in the basement. I'm pretty excited. Pear's arrival is sneaking closer and closer, and the Girl Scout in me needs to be prepared on all fronts. Food is obviously the most important thing to prep, since everything else (nursery decor, new clothes, sleep) is really just icing on the cake. Fun icing, but not really essential in the end. Food, though? Absolutely essential. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am so blessed to have a crew of incredible mamas who are doing a <a href="http://www.mealtrain.com/" target="_blank">Meal Train</a> for us in the first weeks after Pear's birth, but after that, I still don't want to have to cook. My hope is to go a full month without having to make anything more complicated than a sandwich. To that end, I have been stockpiling, batch cooking, and freezing like mad. The last few freezer parties I had were great fun, and the lists and recipes for those are wonderful <a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2013/10/stock-up.html" target="_blank">(and can be found here)</a>, but this time it was easier to just do the prep on my own. I stretched it out over a few weeks and just cooked when I had time, or when Jude took a really long nap. I also added some breakfasts to the usual dinner freezer prep, because nothing is worse than a hangry nursing mama with a newbie to deal with. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Since I didn't actually plan a party, I don't have a full shopping list or printable labels for you at the moment. I may get around to it, I may not. Depends on this girl and her time table:) In the meantime, here is a grand list of recipes for all of the things I have stocked up for the next month! Hopefully you can find a little inspiration here to get you stocking up for September and the dreaded beginning of school!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Breakfast</b>:</div>
<div>
Chocolate Chip Pancakes - <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/318689/best-buttermilk-pancakes" target="_blank">Made with Martha's Best Buttermilk recipe and a few chips tossed in!</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://straighttothehipsbaby.blogspot.com/2014/04/better-than-coffeeshop-strawberry.html" target="_blank">Strawberry Banana Muffins</a> - This recipe is great, and freezes well. I did substitute whole wheat flour for white, so I increase the yogurt by 1/2 a cup.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.bakespace.com/recipes/detail/Wild-Goose-Inn-Muffins/3445/#.U_OWDfldUfU" target="_blank">Wild Goose Inn Muffins</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-frozen-singleserve-oatmeal-recipes-from-the-kitchn-193961" target="_blank">Steel Cut Oats with Dried Fruit and Nuts</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Lunch/Dinner:</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.budgetbytes.com/2013/02/oven-fajitas/" target="_blank">Oven Baked Fajitas</a> - I froze these in large aluminum pans with the plastic tops. Double wrap the pan with foil, add a package of shredded cheese and a package of fajitas on top with your note for baking info, and pop the plastic top over it all. That way your full meal is ready to go when you pull it from the freezer. No hunting for ingredients!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2014/03/some-like-it-hot.html" target="_blank">Enchiladas</a> - No you don't need to make your own sauce, but it is worth it if you have time!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Beef Chili - I really like <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/kickin-chili-recipe.html" target="_blank">this Emeril recipe</a>. It has chocolate and beer in it. No brainer!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Meat Lovers Lasagna - I make it different every time, but here's a <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/HEARTY-MEAT-LASAGNA-52672371" target="_blank">good recipe</a> for it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://momitforward.com/freezer-recipe-honey-dijon-curry-chicken" target="_blank">Honey Dijon Curried Chicken</a> - This is a new one for me, so I don't have a review yet. I added a sliced onion and peppers to each pan with the chicken, and plan to serve it over rice. it sounds delish, so here's hoping since I prepped three pans full!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/fish-and-corn-cakes-with-tartar-sauce" target="_blank">Fish Cakes with Corn and Cilantro</a> - I made these a few weeks ago and Jude loved them! I add a handful of finely chopped cilantro and some cayenne to the mix and they froze up beautifully!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2010/12/kiss.html" target="_blank">French Fried Onion Chicken Fingers</a> - I changed this recipe up a lot as well, but the onion in the breading is key! Dip and bread your fingers, line them on a baking sheet ad freeze. Once they are frozen solid, toss them in a big ziploc bag for safekeeping and you can pull out a few at a time to bake!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://thecookingcampaign.blogspot.com/2013/03/slow-cooker-pulled-pork.html" target="_blank">BBQ Pulled Pork</a> - I did a huge pork shoulder in the crock pot, served up half for dinner and froze the rest. This makes great fare for sandwiches, pizza, nachos, anything! It may not be a full meal in one pan, but it is still a good time saver! I love this recipe from Slow Cooker Revolution. Hands down the best slow cooker cook book ever, by the way!</div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-5416732355398176682014-08-10T12:27:00.001-07:002014-08-19T11:02:49.478-07:00Peach Pie FTW!<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/-n3rAxbJcEI4/U-e-Ugy-KsI/AAAAAAAACuw/SIcXX0tIOgc/s1600/Peach+pie1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n3rAxbJcEI4/U-e-Ugy-KsI/AAAAAAAACuw/SIcXX0tIOgc/s1600/Peach+pie1.JPG" height="608" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We have about 3 weeks until the arrival of Baby Pear, and this house is in full nesting swing. The nursery is almost completed, the freezer is almost fully stocked with meals, and we have just enough time to squeeze in some more family summer fun before she arrives. Today's adventure was the Peach Festival at our favorite summer market: <a href="http://www.ramseyfarmersmarket.org/" target="_blank">Ramsey Farmer's Market.</a><br />
<br />
Of course, because I'm a maniac, I decided this morning to bake a peach pie for the contest they were hosting. I've never made a peach pie before, Actually, I've never made a pie before! My grandmother makes the world's best pies, so I have never felt the need to bake my own. But there I was, a huge bag of peaches on the kitchen counter and a few hours to fill before market opening, so a pie I made. I used the crust recipe my mom swears by, and modified my peach cobbler filling a bit (since I am out of bourbon, the shame!). Of course, my peaches felt a touch under-ripe to me, so I blanched them a bit longer than usual and ended up freaking out that I had overcooked them. Then Jude started climbing on me, I spilled a bunch of cream on the floor, we had a matchbox car emergency, and in the end, the pie came out of the oven at 11:45, 15 minutes before I had to enter it in the contest. I didn't have high hopes, though it did look pretty! I had to carry the hot as lava pie plate at a full preggo clip through the crammed market, but thankfully the judges were all late. I was all nervous to see one of the judges was <a href="http://www.producepete.com/" target="_blank">Produce Pete</a>, so I assumed he'd be a tough judge and figured, whatever, at least I'll have pie to stuff in my face later. To my surprise, about half an hour later they announced the winner and it was me! Sweet! Apparently the winners from a bunch of markets have to compete in a regional contest for a big prize, but that takes place in September, a few weeks after Miss Pear's due date. Methinks I will have to pass, but you never know. If preggo hormones inspired me to bake today, nursing hormones may inspire me to do it again!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nx5UUPQA2lc/U-e-U4YLsgI/AAAAAAAACu8/j3BEJGap-p8/s1600/Peach+pie2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nx5UUPQA2lc/U-e-U4YLsgI/AAAAAAAACu8/j3BEJGap-p8/s1600/Peach+pie2.JPG" height="457" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Prize Winning Brown Sugar Peach Pie</b><br />
<i>Ingredients</i>:<br />
<br />
<i>Crust</i>:<br />
3 cups AP flour<br />
2 Tbls granulated sugar<br />
1 tsp kosher salt<br />
2 sticks plus 2 Tbls. chilled butter, cut into 1/2 inch pieces<br />
1 1/2 Tbls white vinegar<br />
1/2 cup ice water (you likely won't need it all)<br />
<br />
<i>Filling</i>:<br />
8 cups peaches, peeled and sliced<br />
3/4 cup brown sugar<br />
1/8 tsp. freshly ground nutmeg<br />
1 tsp. vanilla<br />
2 Tbls. cornstarch<br />
<br />
<i>Topping</i>:<br />
2 Tbls heavy cream<br />
raw sugar<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Preparation</i>:<br />
In the bowl of your food processor, pulse flour, salt and sugar to combine. Add chilled butter and pulse until coarse crumbs form. Add vinegar and 8 Tbls. of the ice water and pulse until just combined. If the dough is too dry, add more ice water by the teaspoon and pulse quickly until the dough begins to come together. This happens fast and you don't want to add too much water or overwork the dough, so be careful! Turn dough out onto your work surface and gently shape into a mound. Cut the mound into two pieces, press each into a disc and wrap with plastic wrap. Place in the fridge for at least an hour.<br />
<br />
Prepare the peach filling. In a large bowl, toss peaches with brown sugar, nutmeg, vanilla, and cornstarch. Set aside.<br />
<br />
Once the dough is fully chilled, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove one disc of dough and roll out on a floured surface. Place dough into a pie plate, fill the shell with foil and pie weights or dried beans and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and beans/weights and allow to cool.<br />
<br />
Using a slotted spoon, spoon peaches into bottom crust. Discard excess juices. Remove second disc of dough from the refrigerator and roll onto a floured surface. Cut into 1/2 inch strips. The quick cheat way to make the lattice top is to simply layer 6 stripes across the pie horizontally, about 1/2 inch apart, then lay the other strips on top of them going vertically. If you'd like it to be fancy and official, <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/274216/making-decorative-piecrusts/@center/276949/everything-thanksgiving" target="_blank">you can weave them ala Martha.</a> Press your strips gently to adhere to the bottom crust and trim any overhang. Brush lattice top with heavy cream and sprinkle with raw sugar. Place in the oven for 30 minutes. If your pie is beginning to bubble over, slide a cookie sheet underneath to catch any drips! Cover loosely with foil if the crust is beginning to over brown and bake another 20 minutes until filling is bubbling and crust is golden brown.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TDiImpNhKgM/U-fHhOlZxzI/AAAAAAAACvI/QflLgn0vNBA/s1600/Peach+Pie+contest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TDiImpNhKgM/U-fHhOlZxzI/AAAAAAAACvI/QflLgn0vNBA/s1600/Peach+Pie+contest.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He wouldn't stop chewing for a second, not even to smile. I guess it was good!</div>
<br />Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-6074232609944475002014-06-27T14:37:00.003-07:002014-08-10T12:28:22.393-07:00So yeah, guess what?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N3qbjBvsd9o/U63joqP_SZI/AAAAAAAACts/3cVwO3TxGcY/s1600/Jude+and+Pear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N3qbjBvsd9o/U63joqP_SZI/AAAAAAAACts/3cVwO3TxGcY/s1600/Jude+and+Pear.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">30 weeks seems like long enough to post our official announcement... The Bean family is expecting another little sprout in September!</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"> </span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">To celebrate this big event, I'm hosting a little contest!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Jude immediately gave his baby sister a nick</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">name, one that is sure to stick. If you can guess it, you will be entered to win a full set of personalized plantable note cards! Just type your guess into the comments below and I will announce a winner next Wednesday, July 2nd! You get an extra entry if you like my page and "Share" this post on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jojobeandesigns" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, just leave a second comment saying you did so.<br /><br />Hint: It's a fruity name;) And no fair entering if you already know the answer, friends!</span>Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-33392479306271736272014-06-19T12:36:00.000-07:002014-06-19T12:37:14.687-07:00The "It's Not Really a Cookie, But Almost" Bar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgoHppmGjFw/U6M31QoqxKI/AAAAAAAACs8/2Gvh4AKVD9g/s1600/Larabars.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgoHppmGjFw/U6M31QoqxKI/AAAAAAAACs8/2Gvh4AKVD9g/s1600/Larabars.JPG" height="442" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The boy and I are completely obsessed with Larabars. It all began back when I was first pregnant with Jude and I was looking for a snack that was good on the go and packed a protein punch. I discovered the Cherry Pie Larabars and was done for. It wasn't until I began making baby food for him that I realized I could make my own, and later whipped up the <a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2012/05/going-nuts.html" target="_blank">Baby Truffles</a> version for his little fingers. Time went by, I got lazy, I forgot about Larabars. Then I got knocked up again and realized it is a pretty good time to start looking closely at what I'm putting in my mouth. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Since Larabars are almost never on sale and the jumbo packs on Amazon don't have all the yummy flavors in them, I have had to go back to making my own. And you know what? I like them so much more! They take literally minutes to make, and you can use absolutely any combo of dried fruits and nuts. Jude still loves the PB&J and Pina Colada flavors, but now Oatmeal Cookie is my favorite. It's sweet, but not too sweet, and gives us both enough energy to make it through a full morning of art class, playtime, and Morrisey-esque meltdown drama (because toddlers). Keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks, but they likely won't last that long!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Oatmeal Cookie Fruit and Nut Bars</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
makes 8 bars</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Ingredients:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
10 oz. walnuts</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
10 oz. raisins</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 cup quick cooking oats</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 tsp. cinnamon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Preparation:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pour raisins into a shallow bowl. Pour enough boiling water into the bowl to just cover the raisins. Set aside for 10 minutes to re-hydrate. Line a jelly roll pan or cookie sheet with a full sheet of wax paper. Drain the raisins and squeeze out any excess water (you want them plump and moist, but not drowning).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Add raisins, walnuts, oats, cinnamon and vanilla to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until combined and a ball begins to form. If the mixture looks wet and very sticky, add a bit more oats and pulse again. Turn the mixture out into one end of the prepared pan. Fold the wax paper up and over the mixture and press it down into the ends and corners of one half of the pan, until you have a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Slice into bars and refrigerate up to two weeks wrapped in wax paper.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSLOKrMieVY/U6M336vKBzI/AAAAAAAACtE/LpYU3E7gves/s1600/Larabars2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSLOKrMieVY/U6M336vKBzI/AAAAAAAACtE/LpYU3E7gves/s1600/Larabars2.JPG" height="513" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-80442371170784624692014-05-28T11:05:00.003-07:002014-05-28T11:05:42.323-07:00Sweet Indulgences<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MOo7L_lyxvs/U4Th34oUCBI/AAAAAAAACpM/mcCZT_PqfsI/s1600/Tres+Leches+Icecream.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MOo7L_lyxvs/U4Th34oUCBI/AAAAAAAACpM/mcCZT_PqfsI/s1600/Tres+Leches+Icecream.JPG" height="640" width="588" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I made the mistake of making a Tres Leches Cake for a belated Cinco de Mayo celebration dinner with some hot mama friends. It was really only a mistake because the cake was so incredibly delicious that everyone wanted to take pieces home to their husbands, and there wasn't enough for me to eat for breakfast the next day. I should have made two. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Tres Leches Cake is one of the simplest and most delicious little sweet things on Earth. If you haven't ever made it, I highly recommend you do so immediately. I really like the recipe from Pioneer Woman, which you can find <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/09/tres-leches-cake/" target="_blank">here</a>. The problem with any recipe for Tres Leches Cake is that you always end up with extra sweet cream. Sometimes a lot of extra sweet cream. And what would any sane person do with extra sweet cream? Why, make ice cream of course. Luckily, I not only had plenty of extra sweet cream, I also had extra cake. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some would argue there is no such thing as extra cake. I just happened to have baked a ton of vanilla layer cake for a cake pop order, and a full layer was wrapped and waiting for its destiny to unfold. Its destiny was to be crumbled by my adept little fingers into a bowl of frosty sweet cream, along with a swirl of dulce de leche, and a cherry on top. Good Heavens.</div>
<div>
<br /><div>
<b>Tres Leches Cake Ice Cream</b></div>
<div>
<i>Ingredients:</i></div>
<div>
1 can evaporated milk</div>
<div>
1 can sweetened condensed milk</div>
<div>
Enough heavy cream to equal 2 2/3 cups liquid</div>
<div>
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div>
1 cup vanilla cake, crumbled</div>
<div>
1 can sweetened condensed milk for cooking or 1 can dulce de leche</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In a large liquid measuring cup (at least 3 cups), whisk evaporated milk and one can sweetened condensed milk until well combined. Add vanilla and enough heavy cream to make 2 2/3 cup liquid. Stir to combine and set aside in the refrigerator.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i><span style="color: red;">Skip this step if using prepared dulce de leche!</span></i> </span>To make your own dulce de leche, peel the label from the second can of sweetened condensed milk. Using a can opener, pop two small holes at opposite sides of the top of the can (as if you were going to pour it out). Place the can holes up in a small pot and fill with water so that about one inch of the can is above the water line. Heat over medium high heat until simmering. Keep the water at a low simmer for three hours, checking to be sure the water is at or about one inch from the top of the can the entire time. You may need to add water occasionally. After about three hours, your dulce de leche will be soft set, perfect for this ice cream. Remove the can with a pair of tongs at set it aside to cool. Once cool, open the can, pour it into a bowl and whisk to combine.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When you are all set up to make the ice cream, remove the cream mixture from the refrigerator. Process according to your ice cream makers instructions. For the Kitchen Aid mixer attachment, that means turning the speed to the lowest setting, pouring in the cream, and mixing for 20-25 minutes. Once your ice cream is soft set, Remove the bowl and gently fold in both cake crumbles and dulce de leche. You want to see swirls in the ice cream, you do not want it fully incorporated. <i>Alternately</i>, you can spoon 1/3 of the ice cream into a freezer safe container, top with a sprinkle of cake crumbs and 1/3 dulce de leche, repeating layers. That's just up to you! Store in the freezer for at least an hour before serving to allow the ice cream to set up completely. You'll want to eat this up within a week, as homemade ice cream tends to crystallize a touch if left too long, but I don't think that will be a problem for you. It certainly wasn't for me!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wOdEmrHdwfY/U4YjOfv4KYI/AAAAAAAACpc/Uf6S8PhrRdQ/s1600/Tres+Leches+Icecream2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wOdEmrHdwfY/U4YjOfv4KYI/AAAAAAAACpc/Uf6S8PhrRdQ/s1600/Tres+Leches+Icecream2.JPG" height="442" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-87461008480583962482014-04-30T12:37:00.002-07:002014-04-30T12:37:56.690-07:00A Sprinkle and a Strawberry Cream Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wiHFbx0WB_o/U1gj4a6YIwI/AAAAAAAACoE/bhxuLVpb6Dg/s1600/Kelly2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wiHFbx0WB_o/U1gj4a6YIwI/AAAAAAAACoE/bhxuLVpb6Dg/s1600/Kelly2.JPG" height="640" width="562" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My next door neighbor and awesome friend K is expecting her baby girl any second now. Another friend and I put together a little baby sprinkle for her to celebrate and to make sure her little lady is fully adorned in pinky-pink goodness. She has a little boy already, so the dudes outnumber her, but not for long. Any baby shower or sprinkle is really just an excuse to sit around and gossip, but remember, a party without cake is just a meeting. This cake is a stunner if I do say so myself, and not just because it is pretty. This was the first time I actually decorated a cake with roses, and though it is a bit sloppy, I love the way it turned out! I underestimated how much frosting I would need, so you'll notice that the top layer has two shades of roses. I had to whip up a last minute extra batch and it didn't have time to set up before I needed to finish decorating! As pretty as this cake ended up looking, it is really the flavor that matters! I love strawberry cream cake, but I was worried about it becoming soggy since I had to put it together the night before. I decided to try using stabilized whipped cream as the filling and hoped for the best. It was perfect! It kept the cake moist, but prevented the fresh berries from making it wet. The combination of the light cake and the fresh berries and cream is so perfect for a shower, and the frosting is delicious (albeit a bit on the "whoa there" side for my personal taste. Those roses make for a LOT of frosting on each slice.). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I see myself making this one again and again!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Strawberry Cream Ombre Layer Cake</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Cake</i>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
3 cups Jiffy Baking mix</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
1 1/2 cups sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
2 eggs at room temperature</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
4 Tbls. vegetable oil</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
1 1/3 cups milk</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Frosting</i>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2 cups vegetable shortening</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2 lbs. powdered sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1/4 - 1/2 cup milk</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Filling</i>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 cup heavy whipping cream</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1/4 cup granulated sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 tsp. vanilla</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 tsp. gelatin </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4 tsp. very cold water</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Preparation</i>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease two 8 inch cake pans (I also add a parchment paper circle to the bottoms, just in case!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>For cake: </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sift together dry ingredients. Whisk together wet ingredients. Beat wet into dry until just combined and pour into prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until top is just golden. Drape a clean kitchen towel over cakes and alow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Tip cakes out onto a rack to cool completely, then slice each into two layers. (Not feeling too confident in your cake layer cutting skills? Check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nipmRVMfXWg)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>For frosting:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Beat shortening and butter until fluffy. Add vanilla and 1 cup sugar and beat until combined. Continue beating and adding 1 cup sugar, alternating with a drizzle of milk, until desired sweetness and consistency is reached. <span style="color: #134f5c;">(*Note: I usually find that I don't need all of the sugar!) </span>If you want to create an ombre cake, you'll want to divide this frosting into three equal parts. Tint each one with natural dye (like beet juice) or food coloring, making each batch just a shade darker than the one before.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>For filling: </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whisk water and gelatin in a small pan until combined and let sit until thickened. Place pan on the stove top over medium heat and stir, cooking until dissolved. Set aside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In a large bowl, beat cream until slightly thick. Continue beating and add vanilla. Gradually add sugar and then gelatin, beating until peaks form. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>To assemble/decorate:</i></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Smear about a tsp. of frosting on your plate or cake circle and top it with a layer of cake. That's your glue:)</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cover the cake with a layer of whipped cream, then a layer of berries, and top with whipped cream. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4yinGv4c1F0/U2FOGuH831I/AAAAAAAACoc/u0GMz7-gMbo/s1600/IMG_5662%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4yinGv4c1F0/U2FOGuH831I/AAAAAAAACoc/u0GMz7-gMbo/s1600/IMG_5662%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sylxR27BFBM/U2FOOnFys3I/AAAAAAAACok/qK7eVbmGkLA/s1600/IMG_5663%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sylxR27BFBM/U2FOOnFys3I/AAAAAAAACok/qK7eVbmGkLA/s1600/IMG_5663%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hNNIBQwrbbc/U2FORNzTfhI/AAAAAAAACos/NMu-qdfDff0/s1600/IMG_5664%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hNNIBQwrbbc/U2FORNzTfhI/AAAAAAAACos/NMu-qdfDff0/s1600/IMG_5664%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a>Place a cake layer on top and repeat, ending with the last cake layer. If you'll be doing ombre rosettes or any other fancy decorating, you'll want to do a crumb coat. Just a quick skim coat around the entire cake to cover it and prevent any crumbs from getting into your final beautiful product! Pop the cake into the fridge to set for about an hour, but as long as overnight if you cover it in an airtight container. To create those lovely ombre roses, this video is a nice little tutorial! http://iambaker.net/patriotic-rose-cake-video-tutorial/<br />
You'll see that I used my ombre dyed frostings for my crumb coat, too. See how sloppy it really is? No big deal! Once this is chilled all of the brumbs will stay put and your little roses can stand out. It was way easier than I thought it would be, but I know my next cake will look even better!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-28367756983851497512014-04-16T10:58:00.001-07:002014-04-16T10:58:41.194-07:00Sprin-ter?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oiPr9mI4y1I/U07CSEsCLJI/AAAAAAAACno/wjnBXtS0SNw/s1600/pancake+muffins1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oiPr9mI4y1I/U07CSEsCLJI/AAAAAAAACno/wjnBXtS0SNw/s1600/pancake+muffins1.JPG" height="400" width="392" /></a></div>
It snowed last night.<br />
<b><br /></b>
I know, it was only a dusting here, while some of you got actual inches of accumulation, so I shouldn't complain. But come on. I left Michigan for several reasons, one of the biggest being that I hate the winter. And here it is mid April, and there is frigging snow falling. My body is so confused by this weather that I have springtime allergy sneezes and a wintery cough at the same time. It's sprin-ter. If the weather doesn't perk up soon I'm buying a UV light.<br />
<br />
I don't know what to cook. Monday we spent outside in tee shirts, lunching at a park picnic table with fruit, baguettes and fresh cheese. Tuesday was so dark and rainy I made a creamy risotto to warm things up. Today, I baked muffins just to have the oven on and mixed in some strawberries so I can pretend they are in season and it's actually summer. Cold makes me grumpy and lazy, so I didn't feel like pulling out my canisters to mix the usual batter. I had some pancake mix, so I figured that was worth a try. A baking mix is a baking mix is a baking mix, right?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u3wN-wDOvJg/U07CT9LlMII/AAAAAAAACn0/3vusYfOT-4Q/s1600/pancake+muffins2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u3wN-wDOvJg/U07CT9LlMII/AAAAAAAACn0/3vusYfOT-4Q/s1600/pancake+muffins2.JPG" height="301" width="400" /></a>These actually came out incredibly well. They were moist and soft in the center, with a good, lightly crusty muffin top (because there is still such a thing as a good muffin top). They are a little nutty and not too sweet, as well as being incredibly versatile. Mix in any fruit or nut you like, and they would easily be as delicious. The boy ate two for breakfast after he helped me mix them up, which took all of 5 minutes. Win win.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Strawberry Pancake Muffins</b><br />
<i>Ingredients</i>:<br />
2 1/2 cups pancake mix (I love <a href="http://www.hodgsonmillstore.com/en/mixes/buckwheat-pancake-mix-71518-02024-001_group" target="_blank">Hodgson Mills Buckwheat Mix</a>)<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
1 egg, lightly beaten<br />
2/3 cup milk<br />
1/4 cup vegetable oil<br />
1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped<br />
raw sugar (optional)<br />
<br />
<i>Preparation</i>:<br />
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line muffin tin with paper liners.<br />
In a large mixing bowl, mix dry ingredients. In another bowl, whisk wet ingredients together and then fold into dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in strawberries. Scoop batter into lined muffin tins leaving 1/4 inch space from the top. Top with a sprinkling of raw sugar if desired. Bake 15 minutes or until tops are golden.Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-64045290404295935012014-03-31T07:10:00.003-07:002014-03-31T11:35:52.874-07:00Three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MDg9Z-IEW6k/UzluLgTLs8I/AAAAAAAAClI/uWOOi1ZdVJc/s1600/JudeBdayCake2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MDg9Z-IEW6k/UzluLgTLs8I/AAAAAAAAClI/uWOOi1ZdVJc/s1600/JudeBdayCake2.JPG" height="400" width="385" /></a></div>
Again this year I am blown away by the fact that my kid had a birthday. Is that going to happen every year? I just don't know how it is possible that we have a three year old, despite the obvious passing of time. Another year closer to pre-K, and school buses, and bike riding and all of those big boy things that will future cement the fact that our Bean is not even close to being a baby. It should be obvious since he is huge and talks like he's twelve, but it's like I'm the last person to figure it out.<br />
<br />
This year's birthday celebration was art themed, since we spend a good chunk of our time getting crafty, and he loves it! I also figured that since most of Jude's buddies have come to our craft workshops at least once, it would be an easy way to corral them all into something organized and almost noise/motion less for at least ten minutes. With 30 people in the house and gloomy weather all day, that was a necessity.<br />
<br />
We did a little bit of prep every day the week before the party and Jude helped with a lot of it. That way it kept him happy and busy during the day and kept me from getting overwhelmed by last minute stuff! One nice thing about his being a big boy is that he is actually incredibly helpful! So now you can get ready for the barrage of party photos and details... or just skip it:)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rzhSN2xkufU/UzlwV0LhnrI/AAAAAAAACls/3T0SV8pGWeU/s1600/photo+(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rzhSN2xkufU/UzlwV0LhnrI/AAAAAAAACls/3T0SV8pGWeU/s1600/photo+(7).JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We spent an afternoon splatter painting with watercolors, and the big sheets became the base for the invitations. They are based on the idea of a gallery opening notice, so I kept the texts and design very simple. I wanted it to be bold, but didn't want to obscure the spatter paints. We stuck with primary colors so that became the color scheme for everything else! If you'd like to order invites, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/jojobeandesigns" target="_blank">please visit the shop</a>!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A7STrUHAwy4/Uzlu8BxyR4I/AAAAAAAAClg/_GGUoYMriJw/s1600/JudeBdayCake3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A7STrUHAwy4/Uzlu8BxyR4I/AAAAAAAAClg/_GGUoYMriJw/s1600/JudeBdayCake3.JPG" height="528" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I covered all of the kitchen art with art of our own to make a little family gallery wall. The hearts and truck drawing (yes, those are trucks spraying out a fire!) are Jude's, the peach is mine, and the scene in the window is E's. He's actually very artisitic (just don't tell him I told you).</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/-GXsGWHq6U8Q/UzluzRo5QrI/AAAAAAAAClQ/sDkNkT6ySU8/s1600/JudeBdayCake5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GXsGWHq6U8Q/UzluzRo5QrI/AAAAAAAAClQ/sDkNkT6ySU8/s1600/JudeBdayCake5.JPG" height="458" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kitchen decor was really simple, just primary colored streamers and balloons, a paint brush banner wrapped around the light fixture, and inexpensive table cloths. I spread some kraft paper on the table for people to draw on, and the <a href="http://masonjarcraftslove.com/paint-drip-mason-jars/?crlt.pid=camp.aCt0KaZGwria" target="_blank">paint dripped mason jars</a> were another kid craft project. Again, if you'd like to order a banner, you can <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/jojobeandesigns" target="_blank">visit the shop!</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nD-ZoQN8gWQ/Uzlu0gUdzNI/AAAAAAAAClY/qlnmKk_d9Kk/s1600/JudeBdayCake4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nD-ZoQN8gWQ/Uzlu0gUdzNI/AAAAAAAAClY/qlnmKk_d9Kk/s1600/JudeBdayCake4.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Food is obviously the most important part of any party, and we stuck with brunch items since it was early! Bagels and different spreads, a big fruit salad, danish in primary colors, mini strata cups (which were in the oven at the time I took this photo), "creative juices," a paint dripped cake, and parfait push pops.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WIiwiI-zk0k/Uzl27zETrpI/AAAAAAAACnM/knwGpUqk53s/s1600/photo+(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WIiwiI-zk0k/Uzl27zETrpI/AAAAAAAACnM/knwGpUqk53s/s1600/photo+(8).JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7SDfXwxH8UI/UzlyHw63e8I/AAAAAAAACl4/_Jgr7KkMWGQ/s1600/JudeBdayCake9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7SDfXwxH8UI/UzlyHw63e8I/AAAAAAAACl4/_Jgr7KkMWGQ/s1600/JudeBdayCake9.JPG" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The cake was a version of my mom's <a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2013/05/la-la-la-la-lemon.html" target="_blank">lemon layer cake</a>, but only one layer was lemon. I added a layer of cherry filling and a layer of blueberry filling to follow the primary color theme.</div>
<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/-MkA2JUSGsCE/Uzly0Dkt9JI/AAAAAAAACmA/5xc1fnxzre8/s1600/JudeBdayCake20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MkA2JUSGsCE/Uzly0Dkt9JI/AAAAAAAACmA/5xc1fnxzre8/s1600/JudeBdayCake20.JPG" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was gooood. This is all that's left, so I may be having it with coffee later!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VgbigM9X-mw/Uzly-1lESyI/AAAAAAAACmI/dz-1gIbz0tw/s1600/JudeBdayCake11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VgbigM9X-mw/Uzly-1lESyI/AAAAAAAACmI/dz-1gIbz0tw/s1600/JudeBdayCake11.JPG" height="640" width="428" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I didn't have a lot of decorating to do in the craft room, either, since it is basically decorated all the time with giant tissue pom poms and banners, plus our big art display board. I hung some balloons and drew up a little faux gallery wall background on kraft paper during a "Call the Midwives" marathon one afternoon, and that was it.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jsdane_79as/UzlzBPUBmCI/AAAAAAAACmQ/PNtWqqNmE2Y/s1600/JudeBdayCake6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jsdane_79as/UzlzBPUBmCI/AAAAAAAACmQ/PNtWqqNmE2Y/s1600/JudeBdayCake6.JPG" height="416" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The kids worked on monogram canvases, which was super fun, and they came out so cute! I used green painters tape to make it easier to pull off, and it was kind of a PIA honestly. Most of Jude's buddies have curvy initials, so cutting and lining up all of the pieces of tape for 13 canvases took me forever. It was the most time consuming thing of the whole party! In the end it was worth it, since it kept them busy and they all had a ready to hang work of art to take home in the end!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OryilsE7Wq0/Uzlz2mkPtCI/AAAAAAAACmc/r81psD4h6Tk/s1600/JudeBdayCake12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OryilsE7Wq0/Uzlz2mkPtCI/AAAAAAAACmc/r81psD4h6Tk/s1600/JudeBdayCake12.JPG" height="640" width="604" /></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://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7iHKkxZVcwY/Uzlz964cvFI/AAAAAAAACmo/V9rfCtF1S3k/s1600/JudeBdayCake19.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7iHKkxZVcwY/Uzlz964cvFI/AAAAAAAACmo/V9rfCtF1S3k/s1600/JudeBdayCake19.JPG" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We spent another afternoon making playdough favors, which Jude loves. We used my favorite playdough recipe (which I will post later since I have a few tips to add to the original!) and colored it red, yellow, and blue. I added a little color blending chart (similar to the ones that are on the parfait stand) and stamped tags from the scrap paper leftover from cutting the invitations.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOGfFzzFV10/Uzlz_b_cygI/AAAAAAAACms/0MrTh2VPoSQ/s1600/JudeBdayCake910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOGfFzzFV10/Uzlz_b_cygI/AAAAAAAACms/0MrTh2VPoSQ/s1600/JudeBdayCake910.JPG" height="496" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't know why I don't have a clear shot of these, so use your imagination!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1t15oW_p0Ws/Uzl08rpdjdI/AAAAAAAACnA/mW1g7gcKGdU/s1600/JudeBdayCake17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1t15oW_p0Ws/Uzl08rpdjdI/AAAAAAAACnA/mW1g7gcKGdU/s1600/JudeBdayCake17.JPG" height="380" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I stenciled a shirt for Jude to wear with a Basquiat crown, since he's one of my favorite artists, and this is the only photo I have of it somehow! It's probably just as appropriate for my child to wear Basquiat as it is for him to wear his Old Dirty Bastard shirt, so I'm cool with it. Only one of the parents knew what is was anyway, so we didn't have to delve into how fitting it is to use my toddler to pay homage to one of the 27 club members.</div>
<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/-73KJaQeLCXw/Uzl00ThGOJI/AAAAAAAACm4/wLJXLG70Rmk/s1600/JudeBdayCake15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-73KJaQeLCXw/Uzl00ThGOJI/AAAAAAAACm4/wLJXLG70Rmk/s1600/JudeBdayCake15.JPG" height="546" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the obligatory blowing-out-the-candle shot. He didn't even spit on the cake! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But he didn't eat it either. He still prefers bagels.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">*If you like this post, please take a moment to head over to the <a href="http://projectnursery.com/projects/painting-art-themed-third-birthday-party/" target="_blank">party post</a><u> o</u>n Project Junior</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and show a little comment love or </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">click the stars to add your rating! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-74525695141678459012014-03-15T12:41:00.002-07:002014-03-31T10:27:22.599-07:00Some like it hot<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jslFCCam4QE/UySqWWf2aaI/AAAAAAAACko/p9Yo6e2MfPM/s1600/Enchilada+sauce4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jslFCCam4QE/UySqWWf2aaI/AAAAAAAACko/p9Yo6e2MfPM/s1600/Enchilada+sauce4.JPG" height="400" width="337" /></a></div>
I mentioned that E has been training for the NYC half marathon for the last few months, which means I have been cooking carbs like crazy. Aside from pasta and pizza, these chicken and black bean enchiladas have made several appearances on the dinner table. We are a little obsessed. It had been ages since I made enchiladas, because they tend to feel like a little indulgent cheese bomb of heat, but they work out great for obsessive runners. Carbs, protein, veggies, boom. I now make a double batch and stick one in the freezer for another day cause I'm crafty like that.<br />
<br />
I can't stress enough the difference it makes to have enchilada sauce from scratch. It's easy, cheap, and so much better than the canned stuff! One batch of this sauce easily makes a 9x13 pan of enchiladas (or two smaller pans like I make) and leaves extra for reheating leftovers. Once you make this you will never go back! The same goes for homemade refried black beans (which I'll post later so as not to clog your brain with too much tex-mex-amazement in one post).<br />
<br />
Once you make the sauce, you can do anything you like to fill your enchiladas. I like to spoon a bit of sauce into the bottom of the baking dish and then brown the tortillas over an open flame (or the grill) to soften them up and give them a little toasty flavor. Fill each with your choice of fillings and a generous sprinkling of cheese before rolling and placing seam side down in the pan. Pour enchilada sauce over the whole pan and cover with another handful of cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and browned on top.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Green Enchilada Sauce (two ways)</b><br />
<i>Ingredients</i>:<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4gV5UW489A/UySp0hyVoVI/AAAAAAAACkM/Iy8cyAtSKk8/s1600/Enchilada+sauce1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4gV5UW489A/UySp0hyVoVI/AAAAAAAACkM/Iy8cyAtSKk8/s1600/Enchilada+sauce1.JPG" height="257" width="400" /></a>1 lb. tomatillos<br />
1 1/2 lbs. Cubanelle or Anaheim peppers<br />
1 dried habanero pepper<br />
3 cups chicken stock<br />
1 tsp. dried oregano<br />
2 cloves garlic, minced<br />
2 Tbls. cornstarch<br />
salt and pepper<br />
<br />
<i>Preparation</i>:<br />Boil 1 cup of water in small pot. Drop the habanero pepper in and set aside to soak.<br />
<br />
Preheat the broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil and spread the remaining peppers in a single layer. Broil, turning as needed, until softened and skin has blistered, about 15 minutes. Once cooled, remove skins, stems, and seeds and set aside. Drain the water from the habanero pepper, remove stem and seeds and set aside.<br />
<br />
Peel and wash the tomatillos. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tomatoes and boil 5-7 minutes, until all of the tomatoes float to the surface. Drain and add to the bowl of a food processor. Add peppers and pulse until pureed.<br />
<br />
Pour puree into a large sauce pan over medium high heat. Add stock, oregano, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 10 minutes.<br />
<br />
Dissolve the cornstarch in a few Tbls. of warm water. Add to the tomatillo sauce, stirring, and return to a boil. Simmer an additional 5-10 minutes until sauce has thickened.<br />
<br />
**When I make this sauce, I leave out the habanero until the end. That way most of the sauce is mild, perfect for making enchiladas for those who aren't heat crazed, or for a toddler with developing taste buds.<br />
I reserve 1 1/2 cups of this sauce and then add it back to the food processor along with the habanero pepper. Pulse to combine and you have a nice spicy sauce that is a great accent to add over the top of the cooked enchiladas when serving.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qWdKa9YI3jA/UySrq8NrMwI/AAAAAAAACkw/ZR2cB-9VXpg/s1600/Enchilada+sauce3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qWdKa9YI3jA/UySrq8NrMwI/AAAAAAAACkw/ZR2cB-9VXpg/s1600/Enchilada+sauce3.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jude's first foodie photo bomb.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jyuyrj4ab7M/UySqA9ydJBI/AAAAAAAACkU/e5iYbsSmnMw/s1600/Enchilada+sauce5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jyuyrj4ab7M/UySqA9ydJBI/AAAAAAAACkU/e5iYbsSmnMw/s1600/Enchilada+sauce5.JPG" height="320" width="236" /></a>Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-20871089170799516262014-03-12T11:25:00.000-07:002014-03-31T10:27:29.012-07:00Baking with the Littles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bhtwLgrOdOY/UyCi4LPue5I/AAAAAAAACjw/YPFXQh77fuI/s1600/irish+bread1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bhtwLgrOdOY/UyCi4LPue5I/AAAAAAAACjw/YPFXQh77fuI/s1600/irish+bread1.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
Celebrating St. Patrick's Day for us has generally been the same as it is for most Americans. Beer. Stupid green outfits. Beer. Corned beef and cabbage for dinner. Beer. The parade. More beer.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now that we have a toddler, things in the partying category have clearly jumped ship, and I started looking for other ways to celebrate the day. Since I'm only a quarter Irish and E is maybe a drop, it isn't a huge deal. My Irish grandmother passed away years before I was born, so I don't have any family recipes to pass on, or any traditions that are specifically Irish. I also am not ready to jump on board the "every little holiday is the new Christmas" bandwagon and deck the halls with shamrocks, build a leprechaun trap, or dye every bite of food green. That will start when Jude goes to school, so I'm giving myself a reprieve. In the meantime, we will have our corned beef and cabbage for dinner, and today we made this yummy Irish soda bread. No, it's not the kind you usually see studded with raisins and caraway seeds (which I will also make, but by myself, and which is an Irish American construct). This bread is more like what the Irish actually made in Ireland, before it came over here and got sweetened up. It is perfect for little helpers, because it doesn't contain any eggs and they can get elbows deep in dough if they want to. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We used this recipe for craft class today, which became baking class, since we ended up with a very small group. Each kiddo got an apron and we took turns adding scoops to the big bowl, mixing, and making a general mess. I split the dough into equal parts and they shaped mini loaves, then cut the traditional cross shape into the tops before baking. It was really fun, even if Jude couldn't stop eating dough off of his fingers. Disgusting, but he swears it tastes good.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
He ate his smeared with goat cheese and pickled beets for lunch. I had mine with butter and jam. It's a very simple bread without a ton of flavor, so this is more of a fun project than a go-to baking recipe. You can certainly mix it up by using different flours, adding seeds or dried fruit, etc. so get crafty and have some fun with it. Just please don't dye it green.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>Traditional Irish Soda Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWqccB0yVqk/UyCmNLYvqCI/AAAAAAAACj8/JbmJjEWrSRg/s1600/irish+bread2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWqccB0yVqk/UyCmNLYvqCI/AAAAAAAACj8/JbmJjEWrSRg/s1600/irish+bread2.JPG" height="244" width="320" /></a></div>
</b><div>
<i>Ingredients</i>:</div>
<div>
3 1/2 cups of flour (we use whole wheat)</div>
<div>
3/4 tsp. salt</div>
<div>
1 tsp. baking soda</div>
<div>
1 1/2 cups buttermilk</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Preparation</i>:</div>
<div>
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl, mix dry ingredients. Add enough buttermilk to make the dough sticky, but not runny. Stir using a wooden spoon, or just use your hands! Turn dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a ball (or four small ones as we did). Cut a cross shape about halfway down into the ball with a knife and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40 minutes (or 20 for the mini loaves), the bread is ready when you tap on the bottom and hear a hollow sound.</div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34787217.post-76718127047096035602014-03-05T12:36:00.004-08:002014-03-05T12:36:53.867-08:00M's Honey Bear Baby Shower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ko0Aoyap1gE/UxeGcbI7qmI/AAAAAAAACiQ/EyIG4hwqBtI/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ko0Aoyap1gE/UxeGcbI7qmI/AAAAAAAACiQ/EyIG4hwqBtI/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+10.JPG" height="640" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
We could start a rugby team with all of the new babies that have been born to our crew over the last few months. It's been a bonafide baby boom, and there appears to be no end in sight. My sister M will be the next mama to join the crew, welcoming her first bambino in just a few weeks time. To celebrate, we had to throw her a baby shower fit for our cuddly baby bear to be, and it was a little too much fun. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Typical of my craft addicted ways, I went slightly overboard making fun paper goods, but in the end it all looked so adorable that it was worth the last minutes of inky fingered mania. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My mother made a gorgeous set of crib bedding for M in vintage teddy bear prints, and that became the inspiration for the party theme. Since Baby's gender is still a surprise, honey yellows and browns were a perfect neutral color scheme. I used as many personal touches as possible (that's Jude's favorite teddy in the center), and really wanted everything to be reusable in the nursery (I think you all know how this girl hates to throw anything away).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ojZx_kXrp0/UxeHZfXV3mI/AAAAAAAACiY/aaS-xDvxJss/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ojZx_kXrp0/UxeHZfXV3mI/AAAAAAAACiY/aaS-xDvxJss/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+3.JPG" height="640" width="427" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The invitations, printed on plantable seed paper in lemon yellow and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/151907741/plantable-seed-paper-baby-shower" target="_blank">available here.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The favors were small jars of local honey made by my pal Leeann. They were a huge hit, wrapped in tulle and tied with plantable seed tags. You can find the honey bears in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/129693344/honey-bear-wedding-favors-100-adorable-2?ref=shop_home_active_13" target="_blank">Lee's Etsy shop</a>, and the tags in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/180804627/round-scallop-gift-tagsfavor-tags?ref=listing-shop-header-4" target="_blank">mine</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://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6I0CjThsnns/UxeIFP24RqI/AAAAAAAACik/hB40HAKjM98/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6I0CjThsnns/UxeIFP24RqI/AAAAAAAACik/hB40HAKjM98/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+5.JPG" height="640" width="537" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Each table was decorated with pint sized mason jars wrapped in kraft paper and tied with yellow striped bakers twine. Place settings were set with these fun game cards. Each had a Baby Shower Bingo game on one side and a Celebrity Baby Name Matching Game on the other. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bTfw9_lqtDE/UxeIHcmwk8I/AAAAAAAACis/dUhudVXP4bg/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bTfw9_lqtDE/UxeIHcmwk8I/AAAAAAAACis/dUhudVXP4bg/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+7.JPG" height="592" width="640" /></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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBauCkeWrq0/UxeJ1ovi4fI/AAAAAAAACjA/QfRnuyd5Mas/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBauCkeWrq0/UxeJ1ovi4fI/AAAAAAAACjA/QfRnuyd5Mas/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+8.JPG" height="458" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The gift table was adorned with paper pinwheels and little honey and bear themed baby onesies on a line. They were a last minute addition, so the onesies are just iron on images of designs used for other pieces of the decor! Hopefully they hold up through the many washing of a newborn babe! On the top of the table we set another of Jude's teddy bears with a large mason jar. The sign says "What will it bee?" and guests were asked to place their votes for Baby's gender. The majority vote was a boy, but I'm still holding on to hopes for a little lady!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rvBYiPBfFT0/UxeJHM637SI/AAAAAAAACi0/s0K-AL1AO1E/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rvBYiPBfFT0/UxeJHM637SI/AAAAAAAACi0/s0K-AL1AO1E/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+9.JPG" height="640" width="428" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No family party is complete without my mother's maids of honor, a recipe handed down from my great grandmother. They are my favorite thing on earth, and the inspiration for the <a href="http://jojobean26.blogspot.com/2014/02/happy-birthday-e.html" target="_blank">Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes</a> I posted from E's birthday. Sadly, they had a bit of a mishap on the way to the party, and all of the cute coconut grass meant to be set beneath them on the stand ended up on top. My mom was a little bummed, but they still looked so cute! I made tiny paper flags for them and I still can't get over the perfect little bear candies she stuck on top. She found them at WalMart of all places.</div>
<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/-FVPiOUlm_t8/UxeKQIHT4yI/AAAAAAAACjE/zZ_vJCrQ8M8/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FVPiOUlm_t8/UxeKQIHT4yI/AAAAAAAACjE/zZ_vJCrQ8M8/s1600/Honey+Bear+Shower+12.JPG" height="640" width="474" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And an obligatory 'smiley preggo opening presents' shot. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because no one is cuter than a pregnant girl, at least not until the baby is born.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Joannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01564392753668429180noreply@blogger.com1