November 27, 2008

**~*~**Mama Bag Specials thru this Sunday only!**~*~**

http://www.slickmamabags.info/

Through Sunday the 30th.
Orders place in the amounts below earn the discount.
No code needed.
The cart will automatically figure in all discounts at checkout.
1.00 - 30.00 = 20% discount
31.00 - 50 = 25% discount
51 - 100 = 30% discount
100 and up = 35% discount

Think "Christmas gifts"!

Happy Thanksgiving :)




I'm sitting here watching the parade on TV, I never miss it :)
Waiting for the ex and his family to call to let me know what time Zach & I are meeting them for lunch out at a restaurant. They've offered to pay since no one had any real plans to cook! LOL We'll probably go to Lizard's Thicket - which is similar to a Cracker Barrel for those of you who may not be near SC. Good country cookin' :) I always order the Country Fried Steak, Mac & Chz and Rice & Gravy. MMMM!! Now, since it's Thanksgiving, of course I'll order the turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and green beans :)
Then tonight I'll make lasagna & Italian Garlic bread for us three and mom & dad.


I hope you have an awesome day :)


November 25, 2008

RECIPE ~ Apple Caramel Crisp

Apple Caramel Crisp

PREP TIME: 20 min
COOK TIME: 40 min
YIELD: 9 servings

Ingredients:
• Crisco® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
• 5 cups peeled, cored, sliced Granny Smith apples, (about 3 large apples)
• 1/2 cup Smucker's® Sugar Free Caramel Spoonable Ice Cream Topping
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

TOPPING
• 1 1/4 cups Pillsbury BEST® All Purpose Flour
• 1 1/4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/4 cup brown sugar sucralose blend
OR 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Crisco Puritan Canola Oil with Omega-3 DHA
• Sugar free frozen whipped topping (optional), thawed

Directions:
1 HEAT oven to 350°F. Coat an 8 x 8-inch baking pan lightly with no-stick cooking spray.
2 STIR apples with topping, cornstarch and cinnamon until apples are coated. Place in prepared baking pan.
3 COMBINE flour, oats and brown sugar blend in medium bowl. Stir in oil until evenly moistened and large crumbs form. Sprinkle over apples.
4 BAKE 35 to 40 minutes or until apples are tender and top is golden brown. Let stand about one hour before serving. Serve with whipped topping, if desired.

November 24, 2008

Dinner time :)


Dinner was chili (a little spicy for my taste), applesauce and pitabread. Yummy and filling :)

Dana has another sale on her jewelry! TODAY ONLY!

She makes the most ADORABLE necklaces, bracelets and earrings!! ~~ Phyllis
_______________________________________

This will be my last sale before Christmas! So, if you are hoping for some goodies to give as gifts, now would be the time to pick them up! :)

Everything below is 15% off, TODAY ONLY! I have listed just about everything that I have on hand still for sale.

Please email me if you would like to purchase something. I have NOT changed any of the BUY NOW tabs to reflect the sale price.

Also, today is the least day to sign up for the December Bracelet of the Month!

THANK YOU! :)

--
Dana :)
http://charmeddesigns.blogspot.com/

TAG OFFER!



EXPIRES Nov 30th!!
FOUR Names only
Put nothing inside the email
NO Comps
NO sharing my offers
Ordering Link
V
V
TAG ME!

Tag is larger - Will be emailed to you in full size.



HAVE A WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING :)

Stuck on the side of the road

Well, sort of.
I picked up Zach (11) from his dad's last night and we proceeded towards home with plans of stopping at Little Caesar's for a $5.00 pepperoni pizza. His father lives 23 miles from us. Approximately 5 miles from his home, I stop at the Shell to get gas, because like always, it's cheaper out that way. I grab my credit card, leave my phone and everything else in the car including the kid, and lock it up. I pump $15.00 worth. It won't give me a receipt. "Please See Attendant". Fine. I hold a finger up to Zach, indicating I'll be right back. Walk several steps. Almost to the store's door. I hear a car door close (probably another car). I hear steps behind me (probably the person who closed their door). I turn around, there's Zach. I look at the car. I look at Zach. I say,"You locked your door, right?" "Yea." "Oh sh*t". (I rarely say that) "The keys are in the car, Zach!" He stares at me. "D*mmit!" (I rarely say that either) "Sorry" "ACK!"
I go in to get my receipt and ask the attendant if I can use her phone. I'll skip over the boring, time-passing conversation Zach and I had, during which time I told him I wasn't mad at him, I was mad at the situation.
55 minutes later, the wrecker comes, puts this nifty little pump under the side of the door frame, wiggles-in his handy little curved metal stick and pops open the door :) Thank God and hallelujah!!

I have 3 calls waiting for me on my phone of the ex and my dad wondering where we were LOL I call them back and fill them in...
So on down to Little Caesar's we go!
I am thankful we weren't literally on the side of the road where anyone could have accosted us.
I am thankful I could stand in a warm store that had food and drinks ;)
I am thankful for the guys that have the job of helping us stupid people LOL
I am thankful I have money to buy gas inthe first place, and for that matter, to have a CAR!
Thank you God for the little things!! :)

Have a GREAT day!
Phyllis

November 23, 2008

RECIPE ~ Vegan/Vegitarian Caprese (finger food)

(borrowed)

Vegan/Vegitarian Caprese (finger food)

This makes for an awesome party dish cause it's finger food.

You'll need the following:

Toothpicks
Fresh basil
Pesto (I get my own without any dairy in it)
Block of mozzarella (I use either "Follow Your Heart"s Vegan Gourmet or
"Teese" brands)
Grape or cherry tomatoes

Chop up the basil and mozzarella. Tip--use the size of the tomato to judge
how big to make the pieces.

Place alternating amounts of cheese, basil, and tomato onto each toothpick,
and place into shallow bowl of pesto. That way each toothpick caprese is
coated lightly.

It takes a bit to make, but is EXTREMELY delicious. This was a nice crowd
pleaser at New Year's Eve!

RECIPE ~ Apple Cranberry Crumble

Apple Cranberry Crumble
by Stella Zedman

Studded with sweet cranberries and aromatic baked apples, this classic crumble adds the flavors of fall to your Thanksgiving table and is filled with all the sweet things that you'll want to give thanks for.

Ingredients

Fruit mixture:

4 cups (1 L) apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/2-inch (1-cm) chunks
2 cups (500 mL) fresh cranberries, halved
1/4 cup (50 mL) dried cranberries
3/4 cup (175 mL) granulated sugar
3 tbsp. (45 mL) corn starch

Crumble topping:

1 cup (250 mL) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (125 mL) brown sugar
1/2 tsp. (2 mL) cinnamon
1/2 cup (125 mL) butter

Cooking Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease an 8- or 9-inch (20- or 23-cm) square baking dish (or any baking dish of a similar size).

First, prepare the fruit mixture. In a bowl, toss together apples, fresh cranberries and dried cranberries. Add sugar and corn starch and toss to mix everything well. Transfer to prepared baking dish.

Next, make the crumble topping. In another large bowl (or in a food processor), combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then cut butter into the mixture until it has a slightly sticky crumbly texture. Sprinkle over the apple cranberry mixture in the baking dish. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the fruit juices are bubbling and the topping is browned and crisp.
Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Servings: 6 to 8

How kids can help:
Peel and cut up apples.
Toss all the filling ingredients together.
Sprinkle on the crumble topping.

RECIPE ~ Dandelion Wine

(borrowed)


Dandelion Wine

Dandelion wine does not require any special equipment to make. Just dandelions, some
sugar and yeast, oranges and lemons, and pots to boil water in. This recipe uses cloves, which I think give it a nice touch. If you have dandelions around, give it a try!

1 package dried yeast
1/4 cup warm water
2 quarts dandelion blossoms
4 quarts water
1 cup orange juice
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
8 whole cloves
1/2 teaspoon powdered ginger
3 tablespoons coarsely chopped orange peel
1 tablespoon coarsely chopped lemon peel
6 cups sugar

Dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Set aside.

Wash the dandelion blossoms well. Put them in the water with the orange, lemon and lime juices. Add the cloves, ginger, orange and lemon peel, and sugar. Bring to a boil and continue to boil for an hour. Strain through filter paper (coffee filters work great). Cool.
While still warm (but not hot), stir in the yeast.

Let stand overnight and pour into bottles. Allow uncorked bottles to set in a darkened place for three weeks. Then cork and store bottles in a cool place. Makes about 4 quarts.

Note: Choose dandelions from an open field far from any insecticide spraying. Pick early in the season when the leaves of the plant are still tender. Flowers that have just opened are best.

RECIPE ~ Sugar Pickles

(borrowed)


Sugar Pickles

I got this from an eighty+ year old aunt. You wouldn't believe the taste!

Buy a gallon of whole dill pickles. Drain the jar completely. Cut the pickles into large slices.
Put them back into the jar and add 6 cups of sugar. Let them sit for about a week and then eat.

So simple and so yummy!

Summit announces 'Twilight' sequel

Summit announces 'Twilight' sequel
Massive opening prompts 'New Moon' confirmation
By DAVE MCNARY

More than one option(Film) Twilight
1998 - Paul Newman, Robert Benton
(Film) Twilight Time
(Film) Szurkulet
(Film) Entre Chiens et Loups
(Film) Twilight
2003 - Ezzatollah Entezami, Hassan Hedayat
(Tv) Moonlight
(Film) Twilight
Fresh from a massive opening day for "Twilight," Summit Entertainment has officially greenlit a "New Moon" sequel.
Summit made the widely expected announcement Saturday morning. "Twilight" generated first-day grosses of $35.7 million from 3,419 playdates on Friday -- including $7 million from Thursday midnight shows.

The vampire thriller's a ready-made franchise for Summit with four books in Stephenie Meyer’s series, which have sold more than 17 million copies worldwide.

"New Moon" is the second title in the series and is centered on Edward Cullen leaving Bella Swan in order to keep her safe from other vampires. Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart play the leads in the film.

"I don't think any other author has had a more positive experience with the makers of her movie adaptation than I have had with Summit Entertainment," Meyer said in a statement.

"Twilight" had been expected to open in the $50 million to $60 million range, although it looks likely to end up above that.

'Twilight' soars to $35.7 million Friday

'Twilight' soars to $35.7 million Friday
Summit's vampire thriller easily tops box office
By PAMELA MCCLINTOCK

More than one option(Film) Twilight
1998 - Paul Newman, Robert Benton
(Film) Twilight Time
(Film) Szurkulet
(Film) Entre Chiens et Loups
(Film) Twilight
2003 - Ezzatollah Entezami, Hassan Hedayat
(Tv) Moonlight
(Film) Twilight
Summit Entertainment's "Twilight" grossed a staggering $35.7 million from 3,419 runs on Friday to score the second biggest opening day gross outside of summer after "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," which grossed $40.4 million on its first Friday in November 2005.
The friday number for "Twilight"--which has made Summit the envy of every major studio--includes $7 million in Thursday midnight shows.

Summit also announced plans to move ahead with "Twilight" sequel, "New Moon."

Box observers are waiting to see how much the teen vampire romance drops on Saturday after such a robust Friday. The sheer volume of traffic on Friday was evidence of the boffo success of Stephenie Meyer's bestselling book series. More than 17 million copies of her four books have sold nationwide.

"Twilight" is on its way to marking the biggest opening gross in history for a female director, Catherine Hardwicke.

Film seemed to take a bite out of Disney's 3-D toon "Bolt," which grossed an estimated $7 million as it opened Friday in 3,651 theaters, including 900+ 3-D runs. For example, Utah theaters are generally a hotbed for Disney fare, but on Friday, "Twilight" dominated. One of the biggest fan groups of Meyer's books are Mormons, as she is a Mormon.

That put "Bolt" at No. 3 for the day, with Sony/MGM's James Bond installment "Quantum of Solace" taking the No. 2 spot. "Quantum" grossed an estimated $8.3 million to $8.5 million from 3,458 runs on Friday for a cume of $90.2 million. "Quantum" will have no trouble jumping the $100 million mark at the domestic box office in its second sesh.

"Bolt," however, could move into second position for the weekend, since family pics generate strong Saturday biz.

On the specialty side, Fox Searchlight's "Slumdog Millionaire" continued to please as it headed into its second frame. The Danny Boyle-directed film grossed an estimated $249,000 as it expanded to 32 theaters on Friday for a per screen average of $7,781 and a cume of $870,139. Pic was up 19% in holdover theaters. Warner Bros. is Searchlight's partner on "Slumdog."

November 22, 2008

Fun Pages for Kids :)




http://pbskids.org/coloring

http://www.kidscolorpages.com/coloringpages.htm

http://www.thekidzpage.com

http://www.kidsgames.org

http://www.learn4good.com/games/index.htm

RECIPE ~ Apple Pecan Crisp

Apple Pecan Crisp

For the topping:
3/4 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pinch salt
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
3/4 cup pecans, chopped into large chunks

For the filling:
8 apples peeled, cored and quartered
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Butter an 8" square pan, and pre-heat the oven to 350 F.

To prepare the topping, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnomon and salt. Ad the butter and work with your hands until the mixture is homogenous but with large chunks. Mix in pecans.

To make the filling, in a large bowl stir together the apples, lemon juice, sugar and cinnamon. Spread the filling in the prepared pan. Evenly spread the topping over the apples.

Bake about 45 minutes or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 15 minutes before serving.



Serve plain or with vanilla ice cream.

RECIPE ~ PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE

PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE

Ingredients


Crust:
1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 stick melted salted butter

Filling:
3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
1 (15-ounce) can pureed pumpkin
3 eggs plus 1 egg yolk
1/4 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

For crust:
In medium bowl, combine crumbs, sugar and cinnamon. Add melted butter. Press down flat into a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.

For filling:
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, egg yolk, sour cream, sugar and the spices. Add flour and vanilla. Beat together until well combined.

Pour into crust. Spread out evenly and place oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and let sit for 15 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours.

November 18, 2008

RECIPE ~ White Christmas Loaf

White Christmas Loaf
Makes 500g loaf
From the kitchen of Alysha Jones


125 grams butter (1 & 1/10 stick)
1/2 cup of caster sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups sifted self-rising flour
6 Tablespoons of North Pole snow (or coconut if you live else where)
2 Tablespoons milk

1. Cream butter and sugar. 2. Beat eggs. 3. Add flour a little at a time. 4. Add milk and 4 Tablespoons of snow (coconut) 5. Turn into lined and greased loaf tin and top with more coconut. 6. Bake in 180 degree oven for 1 hour 7. Turn out and cool on wire rack.

Teen-shrieks galore at Twilight premiere!

http://www.popeater.com/movies/article/teen-shrieks-galore-at-twilight-premiere/251882
1


Teen Shrieks Galore at ‘Twilight’ Premiere

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 18) — Hundreds of
shrieking fans — mostly teenage girls —
lined the streets outside the Mann Village
and Bruin Theatres on Monday for a
chance to peek at the stars attending the
Los Angeles premiere of “Twilight.” Some
enthusiasts of the popular vampire literary
series-turned-movie camped out overnight,
while many arrived at dawn to secure a
place in line.
“I’m on basic motor functions right now,”
actor Robert Pattinson, who plays sexy
vamp Edward, said amid fans’ screams.
More than 600 people were allowed inside
special holding areas along both sides of
the premiere’s red carpet. The self-proclaimed
fanpires gawked, squealed and
begged for autographs and photos with the
stars. Others spilled out beyond the barricades
and across the street from the premiere.
Many held up handmade signs.
Most just wanted face time. What question
did they ask the most?
“What’s it like kissing vampires?’” said actress
Kristen Stewart, who plays human
teenager Bella.
Marie Sheranian, 16, and Brianna Matheson,
17, came from Simi Valley, Calif., to
catch a glimpse of Pattinson, the 22-year old
actor who became a heartthrob after
winning the role of Edward. The two “Twilight”
fans created T-shirts professing their
devotion for Pattinson and brought crates
to stand on in hopes of seeing the actor’s
face — or even the top of his hair — from
above the crowd.
“My heart is gonna explode,” Sheranian
said from atop a crate.
Not everyone in the horde was a howling
teenage girl. Several teenage boys were
sprinkled throughout the crowd. And there
were even a few parents — including the
founders of TwilightMoms.com, who left
their children and husbands at home to attend
the premiere. Pia Castillo said she
came all the way from Tegucigalpa, Honduras,
to see the film’s bloodsuckers in person.
“It’s shocking something I came up with
could inspire all this,” said “Twilight” author
Stephenie Meyer.
The red carpet was buzzing about possible
sequels. Meyer has written three other
“Twilight” novels.
Pattinson said he signed on for the film
thinking it would be part of a trilogy, and he
knows a script for a second film has been
written.
Stewart said she originally heard the cast
might reunite to film both the second and
third sequels at the same time, but now
they might be filmed separately.
“It has to make a certain amount of money,
like $150 million, to be able to afford the sequel,”
director Catherine Hardwicke said.
“So we really don’t know yet.”

On the Net:
http://www.twilightthemovie.com/

November 17, 2008

I think I'm spoiled...

I downloaded Black Ice last week to protect my pc - what I got instead was a virus from the download itself. So, 4 days and 6 books later, I'm back. And I missed you guys!!

Phyllis

November 08, 2008

Donna from D's Designs had a heart-attack - she is ok - please pray

FROM BETH:
If you haven't heard by now...Donna had a heart attack and triple bypass surgery. Here in her own words she describes what happened:
{{{Indigo}}}Thanks... and I am so sorry I worried folks. After spending halloween at my sisters and with the kiddo's I came home with what I thought was indigestion. WRONG! I actually had a heart attack and triple bypass. I got out of the hospital just yesterday and will be staying with my parents. I promise I am recovering nicely but I'm bit slow. LOL Ohhhh and Dad's pc is too. I am planning on doing an update but not sure how soon I will have the energy. Maybe a few days. If you want to share with folks that I am recovering nicely and will be back as I get my strength feel free. I dont want to scare anyone... but I promise I am doing well.
love ya
I'm still in shock and even in my worry can't help thinking - she went through triple bypass surgery, yet she's worried about everyone else...leave it to Donna. What did I tell you, a genuine sweet spirit! Please stop by her journal to leave some encouragement, good vibes, and prayers here: D's Designs and Other Things



Please do keep her in your prayers and drop by her blog and leave her some love!
Phyllis

November 07, 2008

TAG OFFER - Give Thanks



1. Click Link,
2. Put your Name(s) in the Subject Line where it says
(Name/Name/Name/Name), not in the email!!
EXPIRES next Fri. Nov. 15th





November 05, 2008

TAG OFFER *SNOW*


1. Click Link,
2. Put your Name(s) in the Subject Line where it says
(Name/Name/Name/Name), not in the email!!
TAG ME "SNOW"!
Tag will be attached to your mail I send back.




Goodnight!
Zzzzzzzzz

Family: Michael Crichton dies of cancer

Family: Michael Crichton dies of cancer
Wednesday, November 5, 2008 1:13 PM EST
The Associated Press
By HILLEL ITALIE AP National Writer
NEW YORK (AP) — The family of Michael Crichton, the million-selling author of such historic and prehistoric science fantasies as "Jurassic Park," "Timeline" and "The Andromeda Strain," says the author has died in Los Angeles.
Crichton died Tuesday at age 66. He had been privately battling cancer, his family said.
"Through his books, Michael Crichton served as an inspiration to students of all ages, challenged scientists in many fields, and illuminated the mysteries of the world in a way we could all understand," his family said in a statement.

RECIPE ~ Parmesan Crusted Chicken by Thor Siegfried

Today's delicious recipe comes from Thor Siegfried. Thanks, Thor.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts halves
4 tsp Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs
Combine mayonnaise and cheese. Spread on chicken, and then sprinkle with bread crumbs. Bake at 425 degrees for 20 minutes or until thoroughly cooked.

RECIPES ~ Shared by author Sloane Taylor

For those of you who like cooking as it should be - easy.
• Salmon on the Grill• Rice• Grilled Veggies• Chardonnay Wine

Salmon on the Grill
1 salmon filet per person1 bottle Italian salad dressing – I prefer the low or no fat type
1 fresh lime
Pam spray
Set the salmon in a plastic bag. Pour in enough salad dressing to cover the filets. Squeeze the juice from the lime over the fish. Seal the bag and gently move it around to mix in the juice. Insert the salmon bag into a glass or aluminum bowl just large enough to hold the marinade in place.
Heat grill to medium. Spray Pam onto a doubled sheet of aluminum foil. Lay the prepared foil on the grill then add the fish. Grill 7 minutes each side. Turn once. Scrape off the silver skin before you serve the salmon.

Grilled Veggies
Zucchini
Mushrooms
Onion
Yellow & Red Peppers
Potatoes
And anything else that strikes your fancy!
Slice all the veggies into thin to medium pieces. Making one package per person, spray Pam on aluminum foil then layer veggies onto foil. Season with pepper and several pats of butter or margarine. Seal tight.
Grill 25-30 minutes on medium.

Rice
Use your favorite brand of rice, adding packaged chicken broth in place of the water. Save some of the red or yellow pepper from the veggies and toss into the rice at the beginning.
Cook per package directions.

• Glazed Carrots• Baked Potatoes• Grilled Steaks• Dry Red Wine – Cabernet Sauvignon

Glazed Carrots
1# cello wrapped pre-cleaned carrots
1 stick butter
Canned or boxed chicken stock
Fresh ground pepper
2 tbs. Sugar
Mint leaves if you like that flavor
In a Teflon type pan melt the butter and add the sugar. Add the carrots and enough chicken stock to come half way up the carrots. Bring to a boil then lower the heat to a simmer. Shake the pan periodically to move the carrots around. Cook until carrots are fork tender. If the glaze hasn’t reduced enough, lift the carrots to the serving dish and drape with foil. Bring the frying pan to a boil and cook until the glaze is reduced. Be careful here because the butter and sugar can burn easily. If it does, it’s very bitter.
Add the glaze to the carrots. Grind pepper to your taste on top then sprinkle with a few chopped mint leaves.
This freezes well for a future meal. If you freeze, do not add the mint leaves.

Baked Potatoes
1 baking potato per person
Bay leaf for each potato
Olive oil
Kosher or rock salt
Preheat the oven to 375°. Wash the potatoes under cool running water. Dry thoroughly with paper towels. Rub the skins with a small amount of olive oil. Slit across the top large enough to fit in a bay leaf. Roll in the salt and wrap in aluminum foil.
Bake for about 45 minutes, depends on the size of the potato. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick. If the potato is cooked enough the pick will slide in easily.
If you use an outdoor grill wrap the potatoes in two sections of foil to prevent burning.
Either way, set them onto of a warm stove or inside a 200° oven to keep warm until ready to serve.

Grilled Steaks
1 Steak of your choice per person
Fresh ground black pepper
Worcestershire sauce
Heat your outdoor grill to medium. Sprinkle a few drops of Worcestershire sauce on each side of the steak and spread out with your fingers. Grind your quantity preference of fresh pepper on one side. Grill for 3 minutes each side for rare, 4 for medium rare, 5 for well done. Turn only once.
Remove the steaks and cover with aluminum foil. Allow to sit on top of the warm stove for at least five minutes. This will draw the juices back into the meat and will also cook the steak to the right doneness.
If you use the oven broiler, follow the same cooking times.

• Tomato & Cucumber Salad• Jane’s Potato Salad• Greg’s Deviled Eggs• Sautéed Mushrooms•
Hamburgers Sloane Style• Crisp White Wine - Chardonnay

Tomato & Cucumber Salad
Peeled cucumbers quartered and sliced
Tomatoes cut in eighths
Some onion sliced thin
Balsamic Vinegar
Basil
Put the cucumber into a glass or ceramic bowl then sprinkle with about ¼ cup balsamic vinegar and toss. Add the tomatoes, onion, and toss again. Sprinkle with about 1 tablespoon of Basil and toss. Cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge until ready to use. This is very good if made the day before.

Jane’s Potato Salad
1 Red Potato per person
Hard boiled eggs 1 for every 4 potatoes
Celery
Onion
Mayonnaise
Pepper
Boil the potatoes in their jackets until just fork tender. Drain and allow to cool. Scrape the skins off. Slice in half lengthwise then widthwise. Slice into the eating size pieces.
While the potatoes are cooking boil the eggs then peel under a slow stream of cool water. Cut in half then into eating size pieces. Set aside with plastic wrap or a paper towel over them to eliminate them drying out.
Chop fine one stalk celery for every seven potatoes. Put in large mixing bowl.
Chop fine ½ onion for every eight potatoes. Put in mixing bowl with the celery. Scale these two ingredients down or up to match the number of potatoes used. Grind in a healthy quantity of fresh pepper. Add to that several large spoonfuls of mayonnaise then stir together.
Add the cooled, boiled potatoes and mix well. Check for dryness. The salad should be moist but not swimming in mayo. Add the sliced eggs and stir again. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Greg’s Deviled Eggs
Eggs
Mayonnaise
Yellow mustard
Pickle relish
Paprika
Pepper
Place the eggs in boiling water. Cover and turn off the heat allow to sit for 10 minutes. Peel under a slow stream of cool water. Pat dry. Slice in half lengthwise. Set whites onto a platter, hollow side up.
Scoop yolks into a mixing bowl. Add mayo until moist then add a small amount of yellow mustard, pickle relish and pepper. Your mixture should be a bit thinner than paste.
Scrap yolk mixture into a Ziploc bag. Clip one end at the bottom then squeeze into the hollows of the whites. Dust with paprika. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Sautéed Mushrooms
Baby Portobello mushrooms
Onion sliced thin
Olive oil
Butter/Margarine
Dry Vermouth or White Wine
Clean the mushrooms under slow running cool water. Set aside onto paper towels to dry. This can be done early in the day.
In a small frying pan combine a small amount of olive oil and butter or margarine. When the solid has melted add the sliced onion. Sauté for a few minutes but don’t let the onion brown.
I prefer to slice the mushrooms in half lengthwise. They cook better. Add them to the frying pan and sauté for a few minutes until well coated with the oil mixture. Pour over about 2 tablespoons of vermouth or wine onto the mushrooms then cook a few more minutes. These can be served hot or room temp, but not cold.

Hamburgers Sloane Style
Ground Sirloin about ½ pound per adult
Worcestershire Sauce
1 egg per 1 ½ meat
chives snipped, fresh or jarred
Beat the egg slightly in a small bowl. Combine the meat, Worcestershire Sauce, and handful of chives into a large mixing bowl. When the mixture is well combined, break off clumps of the meat and form patties. Set them onto waxed paper and refrigerate until ready to grill outside or on the stove.
Cook turning once on a medium to low flame until they are done to your preference.
Use any type roll that suits your fancy and dress with ketchup, mustard, lettuce, onion, tomato and the mushrooms. You can also add cheese for the topping. If you do then lay it over the burger about two minutes before the end of the cooking time.

Sloane Taylor

What a night!

Mom's party was a blast and and fun was had by all! There were 20 people and lots of food! We ended up making 4 soups instead of 5, broccoli bread, cornbread, banana pudding, and coffee. Friends and family brought blueberry muffins, banana nut muffins, coconut cake, and a tray of different slices of cake (chocolate chip, etc.), and cold sweet tea.
I was so busy helping mom, literally all day except when we were standing in line to vote, that I didn't even think about taking my camera! You'll get through this day, I promise :)
I left at 9:30 to get Zach home and ready for bedtime at 10-ish. I also went to bed, I was whooped! Didn't even stay up to see if the presidential couple I voted for won.
Today begins a new era for us all. Please PRAY for our new president, whether you voted for him or not, and PRAY for our nation. A new president always needs prayers.
Have a safe, nice day :)
Phyllis

November 03, 2008

RECIPE ~ Pam's Banana Pudding from my mom and her cousin

I made this tonight for Mom's Voting Party that she's hosting tomorrow night at her home for 18 couples. The recipe follows.


I always make different designs on top of my 'creations', it really adds to the flair :)

RECIPE - Susan's Herb Butter Submitted by: Susan Swanson

Susan's Herb Butter
Submitted by: Susan Swanson
Ingredients:


1 C unsalted butter, softened

*Winter mix:
5 sprigs fresh marjoram
3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 cup fresh parsley
2-3 fresh sage leaves
1 clove garlic, peeled (optional)
10 chive leaves
2-3 mint leaves, any flavor
1 tsp sea salt
Zest of 1 lemon or lime

*Summer mix:
Add ½ cup fresh basil
Decrease parsley to ½ cup

Directions:
Wash and dry all herbs. A salad spinner works very well. Strip herbs from their stems and add to food processor along with the grated zest and garlic. Pulse the blade to chop the leaves, add the salt, then the butter. Flavor is best if allowed to rest for 30 minutes.
Butter is awesome on roasted pork loin, steak, and fresh veggies or used as a spread for toasted bread or crackers. The recipe is very flexible but the salt and zest are crucial. Scrambled eggs, Hollandaise, or a bowl of fresh pasta with butter and warm fresh tomatoes are all very tasty. The butter keeps well for a week in the refrigerator. My family's favorite use is spread on warm cheese bagels for breakfast. Hope you enjoy!

November Dates to Remember!

BORROWED

Fall is in full swing all across the country, and we hope you're getting out and seeing the sights, tasting the flavors, and celebrating the bounty of the harvest season! As you prepare your garden for winter and your home for the holidays, don't forget these important dates.

Nov. 2 - Daylight Savings Time Ends - It's time to "fall back"! Set your clocks back one hour to give yourself more morning daylight to garden by...or, if you're like me, another hour to sleep in!

Nov. 4 - Election Day - The 2008 election has been called "historic" for more than one reason, so get out there and make sure your voice is heard!

Nov. 9-15 - National Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week - This week's purpose is to bring greater awareness to the problems of hunger and homelessness. Get involved in your own community - volunteer at a soup kitchen, harvest veggies from your garden for a food bank, donate unwanted clothing to a shelter, or send money to a service organization.

Nov. 11 - Veterans Day - Remember the sacrifices made by America's military veterans.

Nov. 13-19 - Green Ribbon Awareness Week - This week has been set aside to encourage people to register as organ and tissue donors.

Nov. 15 - America Recycles Day - If you aren't already recycling at home or at the office, take the pledge and make an effort to do more!

Nov. 17 - Homemade Bread Day - Baking homemade bread can be a great way to bring the family together. Whip up some herb butter with fresh herbs from the garden to go along with your wholesome creation, then slather on and enjoy!

Nov. 27 - Thanksgiving Day - Give thanks for the bounty of our gardens!

Nov. 28 - Black Friday - The unofficial beginning of the Christmas shopping season. This year, why not save time and gas by staying home and ordering online?!
(Check out my online stores in my links! ~ Phyllis :)

November 02, 2008

Joaquin Phoenix confirms he’s done with movies

Joaquin Phoenix confirms he’s done with movies
LOS ANGELES -The writing on Joaquin
Phoenix’s fists said it all.
The words “Good Bye” were penned on the
actor’s knuckles at a premiere Saturday
night for his latest film, “Two Lovers,” and
Phoenix confirmed a surprise announcement
he made last week: He’s giving up
movies.
“I think it’s just moving on. It’s rediscovering
something else,” said Phoenix, 34, said
in an interview with Associated Press Television
News before Saturday’s American
Film Institute festival, which also premiered
“Che,” starring Benicio Del Toro.
“Two Lovers” is his last film, he said. His
publicist had disclosed Friday that the actor
intended to focus on music.
Phoenix first mentioned his decision to
“Extra” early last week at a fundraiser in
San Francisco. He abruptly ended that interview
after the reporter wondered
whether he was joking about giving up acting
for music.
Phoenix learned to play guitar and did his
own singing to play country legend Johnny
Cash in “Walk the Line,” which earned him
an Academy Award nomination. His publicist
also said Phoenix has been directing
music videos in recent years.
“It’s like greener pastures, you know what I
mean?” Phoenix said Saturday. “And so,
I’m just going to try and like, I’ll just be doing
the other thing. ... Hopefully, I will
emotionally impact you with that, as well.”
“Two Lovers” stars Phoenix as a heartbroken
man torn between a needy, neurotic
neighbor (Gwyneth Paltrow) and the sensible
woman (Vinessa Shaw) his parents
want him to marry. The film, due in theaters
early next year, was directed by James
Gray, with whom Phoenix also worked on
“We Own the Night” and “The Yards.”

"Minnie & The Machine"

Zach was watching a DVD when Minnie crawled up behind the machine and fell asleep. It was too cute a photo-opp to pass-up :) We didn't move the DVD player at all.