Wadsworth's

Tortellini Pasta!

2010-05-12T11:51:00.000-07:00

Tortellini with Peas and Prosciutto

1lb meat filled tortellini

2 TLB extra virgin olive oil

4 oz prosciutto or pancetta, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 TLB tomato paste

1/4 C heavy cream

1 C frozen peas, thawed

2 TLB chopped fresh parsley

1/2 C grated parmesan cheese

* Bring large pot of water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook as the label directs.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over med heat. Add the olive oil and prosciutto and cook until crisp. 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook until fragrant. about 1 min. Ladle in 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and simmer until reduced by about half. 3-4 min. Add the cream and simmer until slightly thickened 2-3 min.

About 2 min before the tortellini are done add in the peas to the boiling water and cook 2 min. Just until tender. Drain the tortellini and peas. Add back to the pot and pour the sautéed bacon sauce over and toss. Stir in the parsley and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

* You could also use regular bacon. I used prosciutto, but my kids would of preferred regular bacon.

I also used the herb chicken tortellini, It was delicious, but you could also just stick to cheese.

This recipe served 5!

Mothers Day!

2010-05-12T11:33:00.000-07:00

My kids made fabulous mothers day cards and wrote down sweet things

about what they admire about me!

I love there sweet personalities.

What a lucky job I get to raise these 3 beautiful kids!

Brant made a delicious brunch!

Spinach bacon quiche, salad, asparagus, and I added in some orange rolls.

I snapped a picture just before they went in the oven, but forgot to snap

another one when they were done. They were fabulous and didn't last long!

Whitney's Birthday!

2010-04-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

Our little one turned 6!

She had a Tea Party with her friends!

The Tea Party Feast!

Pink Lemonade Cupcakes

Her new Bike she has been waiting so patiently for!

Happy Birthday Peanut we love you!

Chocolate creme brulee!

2010-04-14T16:46:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Creme Brulee

1 Quart (32 oz) heavy cream

1 C sugar

1 oz chocolate liqueur (Godiva liqueur)

2 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 C cocoa powder

1 oz unsweetened chocolate

11 large egg yolks

*Preheat oven 350

In med saucepan over med-high heat, add the cream, sugar, liqueur, and vanilla. When the mixture is warm add the cocoa powder and chocolate and whisk until blended.

Place the egg yolks in a large stainless steel bowl. Slowly add the warm chocolate mixture to the eggs a little at a time while whisking. Strain and pour into individual porcelain ramekins. Place the ramekins in a large baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the pan to come half way up the sides of the ramekins. Bake until firm in the center, about 30 min. Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let cool completely. Place in the refrigerator for 2 hours. Dust with sugar and caramelize with a propane torch. Serve immediately.

*Mine made 8 ramekins and I did not add the liqueur, because I could not find any. Next time I would like to try it.

I'm still alive!

2010-04-11T14:03:00.002-07:00

Hello again to all!

I'am slowly getting it back

after taking a few months off from blogging.

Easter

2010-04-11T13:44:00.002-07:00

This scrapbook personalized with Smilebox

Pumpkin Panckaes!

2009-11-24T15:22:00.004-07:00

Here is a new twist for your traditional pancakes!
Perfect for a Thanksgiving breakfast.

Pumpkin Pancakes with Apple Cider Syrup!

Pumpkin Pancakes

2 c flour ( I used one cup of whole wheat flour)
3 Tlb brown sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp soda
1 tsp ground all spice
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 c buttermilk
1 c pumpkin puree
2 eggs
2 Tlb canola oil
2 Tlb white vinegar

*In a bowl mix together the buttermilk, pumpkin, eggs, oil, and vinegar. Combine the dry ingredients separately and then stir in the pumpkin mixture just until combined.
Heat your griddle (lightly butter) using about 1/4 c for each pancake.
Serve with apple cider syrup.

Apple Cider Syrup

1/4 c sugar
1/4 c brown sugar
2 Tlb cornstarch
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
2 c fresh apple cider (or juice would work)
1 Tlb fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/4 c butter

* In a sauce pan mix sugars, cornstarch, cinnamon, & nutmeg well. Add apple cider and lemon juice. Bring to a boil and continue boiling for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
Stores in refrigerator for a week or two!

If you are not a fan of pumpkin things, this syrup recipe will spice up any old pancake.
If you have ever had homemade Apple Butter jam this syrup recipe taste very similar.
It's very sweet and tasty. Worth a try.

I just bought my fresh apple cider at walmart in the produce section.

Mint Brownies!

2009-11-19T10:56:00.007-07:00

Here are the requested mint brownies!

Mint Brownies

1 c butter
2 c sugar
blend together until creamy then add
4 egss one at a time
4 1oz squares of unsweetened chocolate
(melted in microwave for about 1 min)
2 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 c flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking powder

* pour in a 9x 13 pan. Bake 325 for 30 min.

I like to line my pan with foil. Leave a long enough edge on each side, that way when the brownies are done and ready to be cut just lift up the foil and pull the whole sheet of brownies out of the pan and slice!

Mint Frosting
1/2 c butter
2 tsp milk
2 c powdered sugar
1/2 tsp mint extract
1-2 drops of green food coloring
* Sometimes I 1 1/2 this recipe if I want a little thicker frosting middle.
When cooled frost and refrigerate for 30 min.

Chocolate Sauce
6 TBL butter
2 tsp vanilla
1 c semi sweet choc chips melted
*Melt the choc and butter together in microwave then stir in vanilla.
Spread onto brownies.
Store brownies in refrigerator.

Another version of these mint brownies is to substitute the mint frosting with
a peanut butter frosting.

Peanut butter frosting
1/2 c butter softened
1/2 c creamy P.B.
2 c powdered sugar
2 tsp milk

Halloween!

2009-11-05T13:40:00.008-07:00

Fall break was Tu Tu making at our house.
Between making Disney tu tu's and Halloween tu tu's
I think we got our feel of tu tu's!

Disney World!

2009-11-05T13:19:00.017-07:00

The wonderful world of Disney World!

My side of the family all met in Florida and we spent a week doing the Disney theme parks.
It happened to be a heat wave in Florida it was 90 every day. Coming from AZ that sounded nice but the humidity on top of that... just plan sucked... I'll take the dry heat!
We had a great time and got all Disney-ed out!

Honey I shrunk the kids!

Can't leave without the original Disney Lollipop!

Our little princess'
went to go have breakfast with the Disney princess'!
I love this salt and pepper pair of cousins!

Gotta love the scenery. A quick trip to San Francisco!

Whitney's favorite part of it all HSM 3 dance show!

Bugs Life Rocks!

A family favorite Rock in Roller Coaster!

A new pot pie!

2009-10-19T16:29:00.004-07:00

This was a hit! The whole family gave it a thumbs up.
If you like pot pie you need to give this one a try.
Best of all it's simple to make!

Beef Cheddar and Potato Pie

2 lbs ground beef
2-3 carrots, cut into 1/4" cubes
1 onion chopped
2 stalks celery, cut into 1/4" cubes
1 large clove garlic finely chopped
1 large potato peeled and cut
1/2 c beef broth
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded
Salt and Pepper
2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed but cold
1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 Tlb water

*Preheat oven 375.
In a large skillet combine beef, carrots, onion, celery, garlic, and potato and cook, breaking up the meat, over med-high heat until meat is cooked through and some liquid has evaporated, about 15 min. Lower the heat to med and add the broth cook for 10 minutes. Add the cheese 2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper. Let cool slightly.
* On a floured surface, roll 1 puff pastry into a 12" round. Place in a 10" deep dish. Roll the remaining puff pastry sheet into a 11' round. Using a slotted spoon transfer meat to the dish. Top with second pastry. Lightly press the edges to seal. Brush the top with the egg wash and cut an X into the pastry. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 45 min, tenting with foil if the crust darkens to quickly. Let cool for 15 min before cutting.

* I again used ground turkey, and tented the foil on top until the last 5 min.
* Also if you could skip the pastry on the bottom and it would taste good too. It just might not hold together as well.

Mexican Salad!

2009-10-19T07:20:00.003-07:00

Mexican Chopped Salad
with Honey-Lime Dressing!

2 1/2 c chopped romaine lettuce
(I add spinach also)
1 15 oz can black beans, rinsed
3/4 c chopped seeded tomato
3/4 c chopped peeled jicama
1 can corn (big or small)
3/4 c radishes
1 avocado, diced
1 red pepper, chopped
1/4 c crumbled feta cheese

Honey Lime Dressing

1/4 c fresh lime juice
2 Tlb olive oil
2 Tlb honey
2 Tlb fresh chopped cilantro
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1/2 chopped jalapeno pepper (can use canned also)

*Toss all salad ingredients in a large bowl. in separate bowl, mix dressing ingredients. Pour dressing over mixture and toss. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Meat Loaf!

2009-10-15T16:09:00.007-07:00

As a little girl growing up I hated when my mom made meatloaf. So for years I never even attempted to make a meatloaf
Until about 7 years ago when I was watching a T.V. show they made this meatloaf.
So I gave it a try, and it has been a family favorite ever since.
Enjoy!

Stuffed Meat Loaf!

1 lb ground beef
1/2 c rolled oats
1 egg slightly beaten
1/3 c chopped onion
3/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/3 c milk

1/2 c bread crumbs
1 c cheese
2 c mashed potatoes
1/2 c bbq sauce

*Combine all ingredients, except the bread crumbs, cheese, potatoes and bbq sauce. Mix well!
Lay out a piece of wax paper and sprinkle the bread crumbs on it. After the meat is mixed dumped it out on the bread crumbs and shape into a rectangle shape. Sprinkle the cheese over the meat leaving the edges clear. Then top the cheese with the mashed potatoes.
Using the wax paper to get it started roll it up. Pinching all the sides together.
Put in a lightly greased loaf pan seam side down.
Bake 350 40 min. pull out of oven and spread the bbq sauce on top, then pop it back in the oven for additional 5 - 10 min. Let cool slightly before cutting.

* When ever I post a recipe with ground beef 98% of the time mine is made with ground turkey.
As is this meatloaf. My only suggestion is that if you use turkey it is much softer than beef so omit the milk or just 1/4 c instead of 1/2.
* My family of 5 can eat the whole loaf pan.
6 good servings!

Rolls!

2009-10-15T15:56:00.002-07:00

Sweet Potato Rolls!

2 Tlb yeast
1 C warm water
15 oz can sweet potatoes
1/2 C sugar
1/2 C butter softened
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp salt
5 C flour

* In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand for 5 min. Drain and mash sweet potatoes. Add to the yeast mixture along with sugar, butter, eggs, salt, and 3 cups of flour. Beat until smooth. Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough, and pulls away from the sides. knead for 7 min. Sprinkle flour on counter and dump it out. Oil a bowl and place the dough in the bowl turning once so the oil is on both sides. Cover and let it rise until doubled. (about 1 hr). Punch down dough and divide into thirds. Roll each portion into a 12 inch circle. Cut in 12 wedges brush with butter and roll up. (Crescent style- big end to small end)
cover with dish towel and let rise until doubled.
Bake 350-15 min

*I cut up 1 sweet potato boiled it then mashed it instead of canned.

Soup!

2009-10-15T15:17:00.006-07:00

This zucchini soup may not look so yummy, But don't judge a book by it's cover!
My kids were not all that excited that when they sat down for dinner this is what was served to them. Until... They tried it. They loved it!
It doesn't get any easier than this for a soup recipe.
It is a really lite soup, so serve it with a good hearty bread, or it could also be served as a side.
I got 6 servings out of this recipe.
If this is all your serving I would double it so that there is plenty for seconds.

Zucchini Soup!

1 C chopped onions
2 Tlb butter
3 zucchini's sliced
2 C chicken broth
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1/2 c half and half
1 c grated cheese
sour cream
6 slices of cooked bacon then crumbled

* In a large saucepan cook onions in melted butter until tender. Add sliced zucchini and chicken broth and bring to a boil. Simmer until tender. (about 15 min)
Add salt and pepper. cool slightly. Pour mixture into a blender and puree it. Return to saucepan and stir in half and half. Reheat but not boil.
Garnish with a do lip of sour cream, grated cheese and bacon.

* I put in 1-2 Tlb of ultra gel to thicken it a bit.
* May need extra salt and pepper

Bear Lake!

2009-09-29T12:32:00.016-07:00

We just got back from a family reunion with Brants family.
We flew to Utah and then drove 3 hrs north to Bear Lake.
The weather couldn't have been any nicer, and the scenery was
beautiful. It's that time of year, when all the leaves are changing colors.
How granted we took it when we lived their, but now that we don't get to
see the beautiful mountains and all the trees we sure enjoyed our drive through the
canyons to see the beauty of the peaceful mountains.

Trying to get 7 families all together is challenging.
Thanks to Marjean who put all this hard work together.
We had such a great time!

The beauty of the rolling hills with so much color.

Whitney and her cousins

Playing in the cold water (about 66 degrees)
A big difference from lake Powell!

Ali's Birthday!

2009-09-29T12:13:00.007-07:00

My little girl is becoming not so little anymore.
Ali had a Birthday and turned 11!

Ali you are so thoughtful, loving, kind, and willing to help out when in need.
We love having you in our family.
Thanks for all you smiles you bring into our home.
Happy Birthday Ali We Love You!

Ali's two favorite things are chocolate and Peanut butter.
I just made a delicious choc cake and them made a cream cheese peanut butter frosting, put frosting in between each layer, and topped it off with recess peanut butter cups.

Peanut butter frosting

1 c peanut butter
8 oz cream cheese softened
1/2 stick of butter softened
dash of vanilla
powdered sugar until the desired consistency.

Beat cream cheese and butter together,
then add peanut butter,vanilla and slowly add sugar!

2009-09-29T11:58:00.005-07:00

Caramel Crunch Bars

80 club crackers
1 C butter
2 c graham cracker crumbs
1 c packed brown sugar
1/2 c milk
1/3 c sugar
2/3 c creamy peanut butter
1/2 c semisweet choc chips
1/2 butterscotch chips

* Line a ungreased 9x13 pan with foil, leaving an extension of foil on either end. Line the foil with one layer of club crackers.
* In sauce pan, melt butter over med heat. Add the graham crackers, brown sugar, milk, and sugar. Bring to a boil and boil for 5 min, stirring constantly. (begin timing when you see the first bubbles.) Remove from heat and spread half of caramel mixture over the crackers. Place another single layer of crackers on top and then pour the rest of caramel on top. Top with another row of crackers.
* In a saucepan or microwave, combine the peanut butter, choc chips and butterscotch chips. Melt over med heat. Spread over the top of crackers. Chill for 1 hour. Lift the foil from pan. Cut into bars. Store in fridge!

Avocado Hummus!

2009-09-20T12:20:00.003-07:00

Avocado Hummus

1 ripe avocado
1/2 can chickpeas drained and rinsed
2 Tlb olive oil
2 Tlb water
juice of 1 lemon
1-2 cloves garlic minced
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried thyme
handful of cilantro (chopped)
1 green onion minced
1 small tomato seeded and chopped (optional)

*Cut the avocado in half remove the nut and scoop out the flesh. put into a blender or food processor. and the chickpeas, oil, water, lemon juice, garlic, salt, cumin, and thyme. process until nice and smooth. Pulse or stir in the chopped cilantro, green onion and tomato.
(I put my cilantro in with everything else and just topped it with the tomato)

Flank Steak and Soba Salad!

2009-09-15T14:41:00.007-07:00

Beef and Soba Salad

8 0z shitake mushrooms
1 Tlb olive oil
Salt and Pepper
1 bunch asparagus
8 oz soba noodles cooked drained, and cooled
1 Tlb minced ginger
1 clove garlic minced
1/4 C soy sauce
1 Tlb honey
1 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
1 flank steak grilled
sesame seeds
scallions thinly sliced

I used Flank Steak and marinaded it in our favorite family marinade!
1/4 C soy sauce
3 Tlb honey
2 Tlb white vinegar
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 tsp ginger
3/4 C oil
*Marinade over night. Throw on a hot Grill!
If you choose not to make the soba noodles this marinaded steak is fantastic alone!

*I just took a large skillet over med heat and put in olive oil. Then I diced up my mushrooms and threw them in along with the asparagus. season with salt and pepper and cook until the asparagus is tender.

*Dressing
whisk together the ginger, garlic, soy sauce, honey and mustard.

* Toss the soba noodles with the vegetables and pour the dressing on.
* Cut the steak at an angle across the grain and lay on top of noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions.

* I found soba noodles at fry's (smith's for those in Utah)
in the Asian aisle. the color doesn't look so appetizing, but they taste good!
* Also the recipe doesn't call for snap pea's but I just threw them in. it was a good addition if you like them.
*I also could only find dehydrated shitake mushroom in the Asian aisle also. I just soaked them for a bit then diced them up before sauteing them.

Salmon and couscous!

2009-09-15T14:15:00.004-07:00

Salmon Fillets over Couscous
(Paula Deen)

4 salmon fillets
Lime
House seasoning
Couscous

* Add a drizzle of olive oil to a glass pan and place the Salmon. Squeeze the juice of 1 Lime over the top of salmon and sprinkle with house seasoning. Top each fillet with a little pad of butter. Cover the top with foil and bake 350 25-30min

*House Seasoning
1 C Salt
1/4 C black pepper
1/4 C garlic powder

This makes a lot I just store it in a airtight container and have it already made for the next time, and next and next! Or you can cut it in half.

Couscous
2 1/4 C water or chicken stock
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp butter
10 oz couscous (1 small box)
1 C diced tomatoes
1 c crumbled feta cheese
1/4 C green onion

*Combine water or stock, salt and butter in a saucepan, over med heat and bring to a boil. stir in couscous add tomatoes, cheese, and onions. Remove from heat, cover and let stand for 5 min.
(This also makes a lot and I cut this recipe in half and it is plenty for 4 fillets)

Labor Day Weedend!

2009-09-15T13:53:00.009-07:00

Labor day weekend, A full moon at Lake Powell!

Cole and peanut playing on a big sand mountain!

Brant and I trying to do some tandem surfing!

Ali and Michele getting bounced around!
Ali looks thrilled!

Whitney's first attempt at surfing!

COLE

ALI

I'm Back!!

2009-08-26T13:23:00.002-07:00

It's been a while... and I'm slowly catching up my blog.
A busy Summer has flown by and now with all my kids in School you would think I have plenty of time for many things! Well... I do and I'm enjoying it very much, So today I dedicated it to blogging and here is a start, but more to come!
I have had quite a few request to please post more recipes. I'm trying to gather all my pictures over the summer and post them. Here are a few.
I know there are a few of you patiently waiting for the Mint Brownies. Sorry for the wait but they are coming!

Lemon Chicken!

2009-08-26T11:41:00.012-07:00

Lorri this Lemon Chicken recipe is for you enjoy!

This recipe may seem like hard work the first time you make it, but the more you make it the faster and easier it gets!
It's defiantly worth a first time attempt!

Lemon Chicken

4 Chicken Breast
2 Large egg whites
3/4 C cornstarch
1/4 C flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp fresh ginger
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp white pepper

* In Large bowl, beat egg whites and 1/2 C water to blend. Add cornstarch, flour, baking powder, ginger, salt, and white pepper. Stir until smooth and blended.

*Heat 3 Inches of oil in a wide nonstick frying pan or wok over med-high heat. Meanwhile dip chicken pieces in batter. Lift out drain briefly to let excess batter drip off. When oil is hot, add chicken one piece at a time in the oil so that they don't clump together into one ball.
Gently turning over until lightly browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. 5-7 minutes.

Lemon Sauce

Finely zest 2 lemons
Squeeze the juice of 4 lemons into a bowl
then add 2 Tlb cornstarch, stir until blended
Add 2/3 C chicken broth
1/2 C sugar
4 Tlb light corn syrup
4 TLB white vinegar
2 Tlb water
2 Tlb oil
1/2 tsp salt

* After all the chicken is cooked drain the oil. Then add the lemon sauce into the same pan. Stir over med-high heat until sauce boils and thickens slightly, about the consistency of syrup.

*4 breast of Costco chicken feeds a family of 6.
If you need more there should be enough batter in this recipe to squeeze in one more breast.
This lemon sauce recipe is already doubled. There is enough sauce here for more chicken if you decide to do more than 4 breast

*Serve over rice!

Herbed Turkey Meatball Subs!

2009-08-26T11:34:00.003-07:00

Herbed Turkey Meatball Subs

1 tsp fennel seeds
5 6 inch hoagie rolls
3 onions halved and sliced
2 cloves garlic
1/4 c extra virgin olive oil
3/4 c fresh basil leaves
6 ounces sliced pancetta chopped
1 lb ground turkey
1 large egg
1 Tlb fresh oregano leaves finely chopped
salt and pepper
15 oz can tomato puree
4 oz mozzarella cheese

* In a large skillet toast the fennel seeds over medium heat. Transfer to a large bowl and reserve the skillet. using a food processor, pulse 1 hoagie roll into crumbs. add 3/4 c of crumbs into the bowl.
* using the food processor, finely chop 1 cup onion slices and garlic. in the reserved skillet, heat 1 Tlb oil over med heat, add the garlic and onion mixture and cook stirring until softened, 3-4 min; add to the bowl, wiping out the skillet. Using the food processor, finely chop 1/4 c basil; add the pancetta and pulse until finely chopped. Add to the bowl along with the turkey, egg, oregano and 1/2 tsp salt, mix together.
*Shape the mixture into 16 meatball.( I made mine smaller and made 20)
In the same skillet heat 1 Tlb oil over med heat. add the remaining onions and cook until browned, about 7 min. Transfer to a bowl. Add the remaining 2 Tlb oil and meatballs and cook until browned about 5 min. Stir in tomato puree, season with salt and pepper and bring to a simmer. cover with foil and cook until the meatballs are firm, 10-12 minutes.
*preheat the broiler. top each roll with meatballs. Chop the remaining 1/2 c basil and stir into the tomato sauce; spoon over meatballs. Sprinkle with the mozzarella and onion if desired and broil until the cheese is melted!

Goat Cheese Burgers with Beets!

2009-08-26T11:32:00.010-07:00

These Goat cheese Burgers are pucnched with fantasic flavor.

I used ground Turkey, and it was still delicious!

If you like beets they are worth a try.

Goat Cheese Burgers with Beets!

(Rachael Ray)

1 large beet, peeled and sliced 1/4 inch thick

(or 1 14.5 oz can sliced beets, drained)

1 1/2 lbs ground beef sirloin

1/2 C plus 1 Tlb finely chopped flat leaf parsley

2 cloves garlic grated

2 Tlb worcestershire

salt & pepper

1 Tlb EVOO

3 oz goat cheese

1/2 C sour cream

1 Tlb finely chopped fresh thyme

1 Tlb finely chopped fresh dill

1 tsp grated lemon peel

4 crusty rolls

4 thin slices red onion

4 leaves red leaf lettuce

*Cook beets either wrapped in foil and bake like a baked potato at 425 for 40 min or In a med sauce pan, combine the beet and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil then simmer until tender, 10-12 min. Drain.

* In large bowl combine the beef, 1/3 C parsley, garlic, Worcestershire, and season with salt and pepper. Form into 4 fat patties and make a thumbprint in the center of each. Coat the patties with the EVOO. Heat a skillet over med-high heat. add the patties and cook, turning once, 6-8 minutes for med. Or grill your pattie.

*While patties are cooking, crumble the goat cheese into a med bowl. Add sour cream, thyme, dill, lemon peel, and remaining parsley.

*Place patties on the roll bottom; top with beet slices, goat cheese mixture, onion, and lettuce!

Mint Cupcakes

2009-08-26T11:30:00.005-07:00

Grasshopper Cupcakes

3/4 C unsweetened cocoa powder

1 1/2 C flour

1 1/2 C sugar

1 1/2 tsp baking soda

3/4 tsp baking powder

3/4 tsp salt

2 Large eggs

3/4 C warm water

3/4 C buttermilk

3 TLB canola oil

1 tsp vanilla

* I crushed up 3/4 pkg of keebler grasshopper cookies and put into the batter.

*Preheat oven 350.

Line muffin tin with liners and set aside.

Sift together cocoa powder, flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into a large bowl. Add eggs, warm water, buttermilk, oil and vanilla and mix until smooth. about 2-3 min.

* Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling 2/3 full. Bake 20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack, let cool completely.

Frosting

1/2 softened butter

3 oz softened cream cheese

16 0z pkg powdered sugar

1/2 tsp mint extract

*Beat butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar until desired consistency, add extract and a little green food coloring.

Frost and cut the left over cookies in half and put on top!

Lake Powell

2009-08-26T11:29:00.002-07:00

Make a Smilebox photobook

School Begins!

2009-08-25T14:58:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Lake Powell!

2009-06-24T10:09:00.014-07:00

Our great friends are moving away this summer.
We had one last family celebration of our friendship at Lake Powell.
We had a great time and will always cherish our friendship with them.
We just pray that they will want to return back to the heat in 2 years!

Good bye Bunkers we Love you, and will miss you a ton!

Our most fabulous flag girl!

Harrison and Cole!

A Little Surfing will always enlighten your Day!

Boys will be Boys!

Girl Power that will be missed!

Fathers Day!

2009-06-24T10:02:00.004-07:00

We were out of town on Fathers Day so we had an early celebration.
The kids showered him with their homemade gifts!
We are so Thankful for our Brant and all that he does for us.
We Love your Guts!

Cole's Birthday

2009-06-24T09:55:00.005-07:00

Cole turned 9 a couple of weeks ago!
we had a mini party for him on Saturday morning, and then he and his friends were off to finish their 3 day Scout Day Camp adventure.
We love you Cole and are so grateful for your spirit and energy in our home!

Hair do's

2009-06-08T15:41:00.006-07:00

The girls have been asking me for haircuts.

Today was the day for Summer cuts!

Ali we cut off 4 1/2 inches.

She originally wanted it shorter, but she said she would try this length first before going above the shoulders!

Peanut we started with 3 inches!
Maybe more to come if she decides.

In the Kitchen!

2009-06-08T15:27:00.007-07:00

Raspberry freezer jam!

It truly is sicking every time I make freezer jam how much sugar is in the jam!
Twice as much sugar as fruit.
This time when I made jam I replaced the sugar with xagave! (natural sugar replacement)
Now that the jam is all natural I don't feel so bad when I making PBJ's

Homemade Samoa's!

Another version of Fish Taco's
this is mango's,pineapple,strawberries,black beans and quinoa Salsa!

I used mahi mahi that I marinated!

Farwell Party!

2009-06-08T15:14:00.008-07:00

Our friends are headed back to school to get their graduate degrees.
They both are going to Indiana.
We had a going away party for them.
We will miss them dearly and wish them both good luck!

Banana sheet cake, Chocolate sheet cake, and Choc peanut butter bars!

Good bye Bunkers!

Brant will sure miss his good friend!

And Ali is really going to miss her good friend!

It's a party!

A little Garage Band going on!

Brant and Logan served in the same mission together!
What are the chances that we ended up in the same ward years later!
Good bye Powell's!

Peanuts shots!

2009-06-08T15:06:00.004-07:00

Peanut getting her physical and shots for kindergarten!
She had 5 shots to get.
This is her before shots.....

And after shots!

She did not cry or budge until shot number 5 the MMR in her leg.
That shot made her peep a little cry and shed a little tear.
She did awesome!
and was so excited to go get Ice Cream afterwords!

WAY TO GO PEANUT!

The last days of School!

2009-06-08T14:58:00.009-07:00

Ali at her field day playing games!

Cole's field day of playing games!

Peanuts Last day of Preschool!
Ms Stacey is an excellent teacher!
Whitney has really enjoyed her school the last 2 years.
Now she is ready for the real stuff!
All day kindergarten is just around the corner!

2009-05-28T15:25:00.005-07:00

Mini Chocolate bundt cake with cream cheese frosting!

Have you ever had a bundt cake from
Nothing Bundt Cakes?
They are so delicious!
I tried to copy what they do and this is my result.

A gift for the kids teachers this year at school
I thought I would make my own mini bundt cakes.

Thanks to all those great Teaches out there who willing love to teach!
( That job is definitively not for me)

Memorial Day!

2009-05-28T15:15:00.008-07:00

Red White and Blue Breakfast!
French Toast topped with lots of fresh berries!

We spent the whole day swimming and relaxing!

Veggin Night

2009-05-28T15:01:00.003-07:00

Florentine Vegetable Sauce
(Rachael Ray)

2 carrots, peeled and sliced
1/2 c chicken stock or veg stock
1 med onion chopped
2 cloves garlic grated
2 Tlb of Evoo
1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
A few leaves fresh basil sliced (more the merrier I say)
salt and pepper
2 bunches of spinach chopped
1/2 c heavy cream
nutmeg to taste
shaved parmigiano reggiano cheese

* Cook the carrots until tender. Drain them and place into a blender or food processor. Add the stock and puree.
While carrots are cooking fill a large pot with water and place over high heat. Cook any type of whole wheat pasta that you desire. Cook until al dente.
While pasta is cooking, in a large skillet over med-high heat, saute the onion and garlic with some evoo until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir in pureed carrots along with the tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper. Wilt the spinach into the skillet with the mixture, then stir in heavy cream. Season with some grated nutmeg. Let the mixture reduce over med-low heat until thick.
Noodles, sauce, and top with cheese!

Fish Tacos

2009-05-28T14:42:00.005-07:00

Fish Tacos

4 salmon fillets
3 cloves garlic
2 tsp sea salt
1 1/2 inch piece of ginger root, peeled and finely grated
grated zest of 2 limes
pinch of cumin
pinch of cinnamon
2 TLB chopped cilantro
1 TLB olive oil
freshly cracked pepper

* crush the garlic and salt together to form a paste. Add ginger, lime zest, cinnamon, and cumin and mix well. Next add the olive oil, cilantro and a good grind of pepper. Mix everything together well and spread evenly over each of the fillets. Cover and let it marinate for at least half an hour. When ready to cook, preheat oven to 400F. Bake the salmon until just barely cooked through, about 15-20 min. Flake off salmon using a fork and mix all together.

Special Mayo Sauce

1/2 c mayonnaise
juice of 1/2 lime
1/2 TLB chilli powder
pinch of salt

* Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl and add more lime juice to adjust to consistency. It should drizzle off of the spoon.

Black Bean Salsa

1 can black beans drained and rinsed
2-3 tomatoes diced
1 red chilli, seeded and diced ( I skip this one)
a handful of cilantro leaves chopped
1/2 of med red onion
1 TLB extra virgin olive oil
juice of 1 lime
1/2 tsp salt
a good pinch of pepper

* Mix all together and adjust seasoning to your liking and top over the fish!

Seared Ahi Salad!

2009-05-12T16:01:00.002-07:00

Seared Ahi with Asian Vinaigrette!

* Dressing
1/4 c rice wine vinegar
1 TLB soy sauce
1/2 freshly squeezed lime
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp Chinese mustard
1 TLB chopped cilantro
1/2 c canola oil
* In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, soy, lime, ginger, mustard, and cilantro. Pour in the oil and continue to whisk, until emulsified.

*Tuna
1 1/2 lbs Ahi Tuna Loin
Salt and Pepper
2 TLB dark sesame oil
1/3 c sesame seeds
* Season the fillets with salt and pepper, lightly coat with oil. Put sesame seeds on a plate. Coat the top and bottom of each fillet with seeds. Heat a large, heavy skillet over high heat. Add fillets, cook about 3 minutes. Turn and cook until desired doneness. 3-4 minutes for a rare stake. Slice the Tuna into 1 inch strips.

*Salad
1 head of red leaf
1/2 bag of baby spinach
2 green onions diced
1/2 c fried rice noodles
1/4 c slivered almonds
2 navel oranges, peeled and sectioned
* Mix the greens together and add all other ingredients. Spread out on dishes. Lay the Tuna strips on top of salad then drizzle with the vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper!

* You could add green leaf and arugula to the mix if desired!
* if you dont like Ahi I also served this salad with Salmon on top for the 2 younger kids!
I sprinkled salt and pepper on it and poured some soy sauce over the salmon and cooked it on high heat just the same way. until desired doneness!

Mothers Day!

2009-05-12T15:42:00.005-07:00

Mothers Day brunch!

Poor little peanut fell and hit her head on the corner of the wall!
Thanks to our great neighbor Chad he took care of peanut and glued her right up so we didn't have to go to the hospital.

Danish Dessert!

2009-05-05T14:00:00.002-07:00

Robin This one is for you!

Danish dessert is something that you can only get in Utah. It's a yummy gelatin that you mix with raspberries, and use as a topping for desserts.
I stocked up, and bought all that the Harmons had!
If any of you are familiar with it now you know where to come and get some!

Sisters!

2009-05-05T13:56:00.003-07:00

My siblings drove down from Ogden to Salt Lake to meet Brant and I for dinner!
we only snapped a shot of the girls.
Candace (sister-in-law) Natalie (sister) me, Darby (sister-in-law) & my Mom!
Thanks family for coming to meet us we had a great time!
Love you all!

Richards Wedding!

2009-05-05T13:41:00.007-07:00

Brant and I went to Utah last weekend for his brothers (Richard) wedding.
This is Brant and his brothers.

This is Brant's family. He is the oldest of 7 children!

They got married in the new Draper Utah Temple.
We drove around the area by the temple and I had to just post a couple of houses that our up their. Brant and I were in total awe of how enormous these homes were.
I'm totally for building and having a nice home, but these houses were a bit over the top!

just check out the detail!
(spires, molding, doors)

The pictures don't give the houses justice but this house took up the whole back side of the Cu-De Sac.
Leave it to Utah to have these enormous beautiful look at me houses.
These are only two pictures of the many homes.
If you are ever in the neighborhood of the Temple in Draper Utah. Take a drive and you will be in awe!

Coconut Chicken!

2009-04-27T16:11:00.002-07:00

Sticky Coconut Chicken!

6 breast or thighs
2/3 canned coconut milk
1 Tlb minced fresh ginger
1 tsp fresh ground pepper
1 tsp hot chili flakes

Sauce
3/4 c rice vinegar
1/2 c sugar
3 Tlb soy sauce
1 tsp hot chili flakes
4-5 green onions, finely chopped
1 Tlb cornstarch
2 Tlb cold water

*In a large bowl mix coconut milk, ginger pepper and chili flakes. Add chicken and mix. Cover and chill for 1 hr up to a day.
* Lift chicken from bowl, reserving the marinade. Lay on a oiled grill high heat. Cover and cook. Baste frequently with the remaining marinade
When done transfer to a platter, garnish with green onions if desired.
* In a sauce pan combine rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and hot chili flakes. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until mixture is reduced to around 1/2 cup. (8-10 min)
Mix your cornstarch and water and add to the mixture. Cook until thick.
* pour sauce over chicken!

• With the remaining coconut milk you can make the brown rice recipe posted as a treat or save it for another time!

Rachael Ray!

2009-04-27T15:31:00.011-07:00

These two recipes came from Rachael Ray!
I'm not a huge fan of her recipes but these two were winners.
the sandwich is a good twist on a BLT.
The pork tenderloin was very tender, moist and flavorful.

What the pork look's like before entering the oven!

Tomatillos

Tomatillo salsa!

Pork Tenderloin with Tomatillo Salsa!

2 12-14 oz pork tenderloins
5 cloves of garlic
1 Tlb ground cumin
1 Tlb dried oregano
1 Tlb finely ground coffee
Salt
1 lb tomatillos husked (I used 5 tomatillos)
1 jalapeno chile halved lengthwise and seeds discarded
1/3 c cilantro leaves
vegetable oil for brushing

* Cut lengthwise down the center of each pork, without cutting all the way through, then open each tenderloin like a book.
* In a bowl combine the chopped garlic (4 cloves) the cumin, oregano, coffee and 1 Tlb salt. Rub the mixture on the pork. Transfer to a baking dish and cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a least 1 hour up to 24hrs. (The longer the more tender the pork will be)
* Heat a large skillet over med heat. Add the tomatillos and jalapeno and cook until the tomatillos are softened. ( about 8 min)
* Using a food processor, mix the tamatillos, jalapeno, remaining clove of garlic and the cilantro until smooth and season with salt.
* Preheat the broiler. Brush the pork with oil. Broil 5 minutes on each side
( I probably did 8 min on each side and used 1 pkg of the tenderloins that you get from costco)
* Cover with foil and let rest for 10 min.
* Slice on an angle accross the grain and serve with salsa!

Triple Decker Strawberry Chicken Club Sandwich!

12 oz thick cut bacon
1 1/2 lbs skinless boneless chicken breast
Salt and Pepper
1 avocado halved and pitted
2 Tlb fresh lemon juice
1/3 c mayonnaise
12 slices whole wheat toast
2 c baby spinach
1 1/2 c hulled and sliced strawberries

* In a large skillet cook bacon until crisp. drain on paper towel. Pour off the fat and heat skillet again to cook the chicken.
Salt and pepper the chicken and cook over med heat until done. Let rest 5 min.
While chicken is cooking. Puree the avocado (blender, food processor, or just mash with a fork) with the lemon juice. Stir in mayo, then season with salt and pepper.
Spread avocado mayo on each toast slice, layer with chicken, then bacon, another piece of toast, spinach, strawberries and then mayo again.

Sweet Brown Rice!

2009-04-27T15:15:00.005-07:00

This recipe comes from Chef Brad.
This is his recipe of the month.
It is very sweet and you could serve it as a side or just eat it as a dessert. If you like rice pudding you should like this. I liked it a little warmer than room temp, and to eat it as a dessert.

Sweet sticky brown rice with mangoes & coconut cream

2 c warm cooked brown rice
1 c cooked Quinoa
1 C coconut cream
1/2 tsp salt
3-6 Tlb sugar or Xagave

* Combine coconut cream, salt & sugar in medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over med heat, stirring well to dissolve sugar. Cover and remove from heat.

* Place rice in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the coconut cream sauce and stir gently to blend. Cover with plastic wrap. Set aside for 30 minutes. Serve rice at room temperature with slices of fresh mango.

* Quinoa is a grain and you can find it in the bulk section at sprouts. I used white quinoa. Cook it just like you do rice 2 to 1 ratio. It takes 20 min on the stove top. Or 5 min in a pressure cooker.

* Xagave is a natural sugar subsitute.

Birthday Celebration!

2009-04-20T14:27:00.011-07:00

Whitney wanted to go get her very first pedicure for her birthday!

Pink toes and blue nails!

She had to wait all day to open her presents and it was killing her!
The time finally arrived and she was one excited girl.

Now we don't have to watch the movie daily just to hear the music.
Yes she plays it every day and know's all the songs!

Happy Birthday to our sweet little devil!
(behind the scenes she is our devil)

A week of Baking!

2009-04-20T14:11:00.005-07:00

It was a busy week of baking for me.
I wont mention how many pounds of butter or powdered sugar I went through this week.

Easter Cupcakes!
Lemon cupcake w/ Lemon frosting

Sugar Cookies for Miriam's Shower!

Whitney's Birthday cupcake treats!

Peanuts Birthday Cake!
Strawberry Cake w/ strawberry cream cheese frosting

Birthday Pictures!

2009-04-16T10:02:00.008-07:00

A big THANKS to my good friend Lorri who took these amazing photos!

Happy Birthday Whitney!

2009-04-15T11:39:00.002-07:00

My sweet baby is 5. Wow how time fly's!
We love you Peanut!
Happy Birthday!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T19:41:00.016-07:00

This year for Easter we missed our DAD!
He was fortunate to get to go to the MASTER'S Golf Tournament.
It is once in a life time chance. So we let him go, and enjoy the major golf tournament up close and in person.

We LOVE you DAD!

I tried to capture some photos of the kids on this Easter Morning!

Cole

Alix

Whitney

Coloring Eggs!

Even though our Dad was gone, The Easter Bunny still found us!

she loved her new Hello Kitty necklace!

The crazy Bunny left Cole a buck knife he has been wanting!

Sewing class!

2009-04-12T19:28:00.006-07:00

I Have been taking a few sewing classes every so often.
This night I was learning how to sew a skirt.
Ali was dieing to come with me, and since she did not have school the next morning I let her come. I ended up being the only one in class that night, so Ali lucked out and Kelli gave Ali her own sewing lesson too. She sewed her very first pillow case, and did a excellent job.

This is the finished product.
Ali's very first homemade skirt!

Tag from Natalie!

2009-04-06T12:46:00.004-07:00

Fourth folder and 4th picture!
This was last spring Whitney was playing outside with the hose!
Tag... Tiffany Phelps
Sarah Larsen
Lorri Craig (I know you will have a good picture)

This weeks meals!

2009-04-01T10:49:00.007-07:00

Orange Chicken on top of asparagus and polenta!

The kids did not dig the orange zested polenta, so I wont waste my time with the recipe!

Roasted banana brownie bits!

Asian Pasta!

If you want to consume a lot of veggies in one dish this is it.
This pasta has
1/2 cabbage
1/2 purple cabbage
spinach
red, orange, yellow peppers
cucumbers
bean sprouts
cilantro
whole wheat linguine
topped with a Asian dressing!

Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas!

If you like the sweet pork burritos recipe, you will love this enchilada recipe.
This is Brant's favorite enchilada recipe to date!

1/3 c honey
1/4 c fresh lime juice (2-3 limes)
2 tsp chili powder
2 cloves garlic finely minced or 1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 boneless chicken breasts cooked and shredded
12 corn tortillas
2 c Mexican cheese blend
1 14 oz can of green enchilada sauce
1/2 -3/4 c heavy cream
chopped cilantro, to garnish

* Preheat oven 350.
* Cook and shred your chicken
* Mix honey, lime juice, and chili powder in a bowl. Once you have shredded the chicken pour the sauce over the chicken in a Ziploc bag and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 1 hour.
* Mix the enchilada sauce and cream together.
* Pour 1/2 c sauce on bottom of a 9x13 pan.
* Put a generous scoop of chicken mixture onto the tortilla with a big pinch of cheese, Roll up and lay seam side down in the dish.
* Once you have all tortillas done and if you have extra sauce in the Ziploc bag dump the sauce in with the green enchilada sauce. Pour sauce over enchiladas. Top with all remaining cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes. (I like to lightly cover mine with tinfoil, to prevent the cheese from turning to brown).
* top with sour cream and black beans.

That is the original recipe, and hear are my few personal touches.
* I use 3 breasts
* I 1 1/2 the honey and lime marinade
* I get my tortillas wet and put them in microwave for a few seconds. That makes them soft and easier to work with.
* Double or 1 1/2 the green sauce. If you like it saucy.
* serve over brown rice
* I jazzed up my black beans with
1 mango
1/2 avocado
cilantro
lime juice and a pinch of salt.
YUMMY!

Brants Birthday!

2009-03-26T10:09:00.007-07:00

We were at Trek over Brant's Birthday so we celebrated his birthday
on Monday!

We had Shrimp Scampi with roasted Parmesan broccoli for dinner!

Brant loves fresh fruit and bread pudding.
I found this recipe and knew it would be perfect for his cake.
If any of you are bread pudding lovers this one is to die for
DELICIOUS!!

Berry bread pudding!

BERRY BREAD PUDDING WITH LEMON FONDANT!

butter room temperature
4 eggs
3/4 c whole milk
3/4 c heavy cream
1 TLB vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon zest
1/2 c sugar
4 large slices brioche bread
(I used half a loaf of a good quality artisan bread)
2 c mixed berries (strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Lemon Fondant
2 c powdered sugar
2 TLB water
2 lemons zested and juiced

* Butter and sugar 6 6oz ramekins
* In medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and sugar. combine will with a whisk, then let it settle so there are no air bubbles on the surface.
* Preheat oven 350
* Tear up bread into large pieces using your hands, add to the custard mixture and toss to combine. Equally divide the berries among the ramekins and top with bread mixture. Gently press down so they are packed evenly. Sprinkle with a little sugar then refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to let soak.
* Bake for 25 minutes in the center of oven. ( I put mine on a cookie sheet to prevent spillage)
The pudding is ready when it has puffed up and the custard is set. The top should be a nice golden color. Remove and allow to cool slightly.
* Make fondant. In mixing bowl combine sifted powdered sugar, water, lemon zest and juice.
( I made only have the fondant and it was enough)
* Once the pudding has cooled slightly, invert onto a individual serving plate. Drizzle the lemon fondant over warm bread pudding and serve with extra fresh fruit!

Trek!

2009-03-23T10:04:00.068-07:00

Last November Brant and I were called to be Ma's and Pa's in our Stake Trek this year.
After preparing for months and putting in many hours of training... it finally came.

What a great experience that we were privileged to enjoy!
These many pictures and blurbs do not even come close to doing it justice.
Both Brant and I are writing a small novel about Trek so that we can always remember this experience!

This is where it started. All those participating in Trek were asked to dress in their pioneer clothes for church the Sunday before we left.

WOW!!
Is the only way I can describe this day!
My parents were not able to come to Arizona to watch the kids. So the next best thing was to send them to Utah. The kids were so excited to go to Grandma's and Grandpa's for a week. They could not stop talking about it the whole way to the airport.
We arrived at the airport and got Ali and Cole checked right in. When they got to Whitney a red flag kept showing up on her name. To make a long story short Whitney could not fly with Ali and Cole because she is only 4. Little did we know that because she is not yet 5 she cannot fly without anyone under the age of 12! (she turns 5 in 1 month)
They would not let the kids fly. We did not know what to do. We called Grandma and told her that the kids would not be coming and why. My heart sank seeing my two girls with tears on their faces knowing that their trip to Utah might not happen.
Brant and I are suppose to leave for Trek at 5 am the next morning. We only have a few hours to find something to do with the kids- not to mention finish getting our stuff together and packed.
I could not let my kid's trip that they had been looking forward to for so long not happen. The only choice we had was to by 2 more round tickets to Utah- one for me to fly them there and then turn around and come home straight home, and another one for Brant to do the same when they would come home on Friday.
So the kids and I flew to Utah!
When we arrived in Utah I walked them as far as I could go without having to go through security again and let them run to Grandma. I quickly turned around and luckily only had to wait 1 hour for my return flight. I made it back just in time to eat dinner finish packing and go to bed for our big adventure that would start bright and early!

We drove 2 hours north of Phoenix. This was the main camp where everyone gathered. We were feed a big Breakfast. We arrived at about 7 am and can definately say it was cold!!! only in the 30's

A group of boys stretching before their long walk!!

After we were assigned our families I made everyone put on knee high nylons to prevent blisters before starting the long walk!

This was our family 6 boys and 4 girls!

We put our hard cart together, packed up every ones stuff and were ready to hit the trail!

We took periodic breaks to rest and get some water. We realized very early on that it was important to balance the cart so that not too much weight was pulling the cart too far forward or too far backward it wasn't long before we had a perfectly balanced cart.

The Ma's and Pa's were asked to not push the cart. We could not take the kids job away from them. I put this picture in so you could see how we had to pack our live chickens (tied to the bottom of the cart). They came along for a joy ride. (not for long)

Resting!
It was a beautiful day.... sunny and in the 60's.
Only a 10% chance of rain. (good odds)

Ma and Pa Wadsworth!

Ma and Pa Larsen!

Ryan and Sarah are friends from our ward that were also chosen to be a Ma and Pa!
We were friends before Trek and really really good friends after Trek!!

Trekking along on this beautiful day!

We had 8 pulling and 2 behind pushing!

Still sunny and a beautiful day!

The Lord thought we had it too good I guess .... that 10% chance of rain. Yes it came.
Not lightly. rain, hail, wind, thunder, lighting. cold cold cold!
It all happened at the perfect time. We came to the hardest part of our Trek. Rocky Ridge! it was a hill equivalent to 11 stores up! Mud Mud Mud
This is where the challenge of the Trek began. The ma's and pa's were allowed to help up the hill.
This is Brant helping the girls push from behind.
I tried taking some pictures but they do not do it justice of just how hard it really was.

This is our family at the top of the hill.
They made it! Ponchos were not easily accessible so we had to improvise and use garbage bags. Anything to help keep us dry, but by the time we got our ponchos we were already soaked.
so we are really soaked under these ponchos!

A kiss for success!

This is just the beginning stages of the mud. Our feet are still clean here.
The more you walked the more the mud just caked on.
We had mud platform shoes!

As you can see the mud just sticking to everything. After a couple of hours waiting for the rain to stop and it never did, our trail boss decided to stop trekking and set up camp here.

This was the next morning! Cold, but the rain had finally stopped.
We woke up and put our wet clothes back on, and after a yummy feast of cornmeal mush we were back on the trail again.

Our Tail boss Greg Olsen

Some friendly Indians that we met along the way.

After a breezy 5 miles we made it to our camp site!

It is Saturday and Sarah and I escaped to the hair washing station. While all the kids were busy doing activities.

This is me and my girls!

Saturday was also the day to say goodbye to our pet chickens.
I guess we needed something to eat for dinner!

Britney wanted to take part in the action. 2 wacks! That all she wrote!

Cleaning the chickens!

Austin very proud of his work!

On our menu was chicken and veggie soup... but we took a different approach and made fried chicken. I took the batter that was for ash cakes (which I new my kids would not eat)
and coated the chicken with it. We did have Crisco. I took the chicken bouillon that was suppose to be used for the soup broth and flavored our Crisco oil with it.
We had delicious chicken!

This is Our dutch oven bread that was also delicious!

And I used the potato, carrots, and onions from the soup and just cooked them up with a little chicken stock water.
This was our home cooked meal. The kids loved it!

The Pony express came.
This is him delivering the kids mail and telling them a story!

Having solo time reading their mail!

This is our mansion!
A fabulous house that sleeps 12.
Let me mention rocks and cactus and tarantulas and scorpions. It doesn't get any better than that.

Some of Brant's lost young men that came to hang out with him!

boys in bonnets!

Brant making kindling, and teaching Dakota how to use a hatchet!

Sarah and girls planning Family Home Evening!

One of my favorite things about being done with Trek, is getting ride of the nasty STASH!

And to have fresh running water again!
I'm ready to be done!

Packed up and ready to head home!

The last 5 miles of our Journey and we our done!

What an awesome experience.
But I will need 4 years to forget about it to want to go again!

This is just hours after we found fresh running water agian.
We had to celebrate with going out to dinner.
Sushi was our choice!
We got to participate in experiences that can only be experienced through our Trek challanges.
I will forever be greatful for them, and also for a great friendship that will always be.

Cinnamon Rolls!

2009-03-11T13:55:00.005-07:00

I know I was suppose to be on a baking strike.... but I was dieing to bake.
The kids are home for spring break and I just needed something to fill up my afternoon while the kids had friends over to play.
I took pictures and sent them to my husband to show him what I was doing. His request was to make sure they were all gone by the time he got home.
I did my best and let all my great neighbors enjoy them with me. I did have a few left over and the will powered man turned his head and didn't even eat ONE!
(Except for the two bites I purposely put in his mouth just to see a mouth watering smile)

The one thing I have learned in making cinnamon rolls is to NOT be shy with the middle yumness the more the merrier!

Cinnamon Rolls!

1/2 c warm water
2 TLB active dry yeast
2 TLB sugar
3 1/2 oz pkg instant vanilla pudding
1/2 c butter melted
2 eggs
1 tsp salt
6 + cups flour

Filling
1 c butter softened to room temp
2 c brown sugar
4 tsp cinnamon

Frosting
8 oz cream cheese softened
1/2 c butter room temp
1 tsp vanilla
3 C confectioner's sugar
2-3 TLB milk

* In a small bowl combine water yeast and sugar. A little stir and set aside.
In a bowl take the pudding and make according to the package.
Add butter, eggs, and salt in the mixer and mix well. Then add yeast mixture. Blend. Gradually add flour, mix until smooth. Do not over flour the dough. It should be very soft but not sticky. Place in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size.
Roll out onto floured surface 34x21 (something like that) in size
Take 1 c of butter and spread over surface. In a bowl mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle over the butter. Roll up tightly. Cut about 1 1/2 inches apart with a thread or serrated knife.
Place on lightly greased cookie sheet 1 inch apart. ( I did mine very close makes for a better bun)
Cover and let rise until doubled again.
Bake 350 15 -20 minutes. Remove when they start to golden (Don't over bake)
Frost warm rolls with frosting!
Makes 24 good size rolls. ( I made a cookie sheet full and also a 8 " glass square dish)
Enjoy!

Soups!

2009-03-11T13:12:00.010-07:00

This green soup has been in our family for a few years now. It may not look yummy, but my kids love it. It is full of healthy veggies that is nothing but good for you.
I call it the Green Goddess Soup! Because its all green veggies.
The real name is
Hearty Minestrone!

Hearty Minestrone

1 TLB extra virgin olive oil
2 Leeks washed and chopped
I use all but the top 2 inches of the leek
2 ribs celery washed and thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano leaves
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp salt
6 c chicken broth
plus I add 2-3 c water
1 bunch Swiss chard washed and chopped
1 c green beans
I use frozen beans and cut into 1" pieces
1/2 c whole wheat penne pasta
1/4 c parsley chopped
1 small zucchini cut into quarters
fresh Parmesan cheese

* Heat oil in a large saucepan over med-high heat. Add leeks, celery, garlic oregano, and salt and pepper. Cook stirring frequently, for 4 minutes, or until veggies are soft.
Add broth, Swiss chard, green beans and pasta. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until pasta is al dente.
The last 5 minutes add the zucchini and parsley.
Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan Cheese.

I mixed two different recipes together and came up with this one.

Sweet Potato & Butternut Squash Soup!

1 small butternut squash (1 1/2 -2 Lbs)
1 sweet potato
2 TLB butter
1 large leek washed and chopped
1 medium carrot coarsely shredded of finely chopped
8 fresh sage leaves chopped
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
3 c chicken broth
1 tsp salt
Sour cream

* Cut the squash length wise scoop out the seeds. Place flesh side down in a glass dish filled with 1/2 inch of water. I covered mine with plastic wrap and baked it in the microwave for about 5 minutes then unwrap the dish turn over the squash and bake for additional 1-2 minutes. Until the squash is nice and tender.
I baked my sweet potato in the oven at 350 for about 30 minutes. Cook your sweet potato how ever is desired until soft and ready to eat.
Peel the skin off the squash and coarsely mash it up. Do the same to the potato. Set aside both.
Heat the butter in a saucepan over med heat. Add the leek, carrot, and sage. Cook, stirring, until leeks are wilted about 4 min. Stir in the ginger and nutmeg, then pour in 3 c of broth. Stir in the mashed squash and sweet potato, and bring to a boil. Adjust the heat to a simmer and add the salt, cover and simmer 10 minutes.
You could eat it like this a little chunky... or I put mine in the blender in two batches and pureed it. (make sure the lid is on tight) Then put it back into the saucepan and added a pinch of cinnamon and a little water so it wasn't to thick. Ladle into bowls and I put a little dollop of sour cream on top!

Pizza!

2009-03-08T17:33:00.007-07:00

One night when I wasn't in the mood to cook dinner I came across this recipe. I quickly whipped it up and was surprised how quick, easy, and delicious it was.

Home made pizza with a white sauce.
I just took whatever I had in the fridge that was pizza friendly and through it on. This night it was ham, fresh basil. I quickly roasted a red pepper and put it on half, and fresh mozzarella cheese.
The kids gave it all a thumbs up, and asked when can we have it again!

White Sauce
1/2 c ranch dressing
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp dried basil
1/4 c shredded parmesan

Dough
1 package of yeast
1 c warm water
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
2 Tlb oil
2 1/2 c flour
2 Tlb cornmeal ( optional for sprinkling on a cookie sheet)
* Dissolve yeast in warm water and add sugar. Let yeast sit about 10 min ( you want it good and foamy). Stir in remaining ingredients utnil blended. Beat vigorously until blended. ( I just put it in the kitchen aid with the dough hook) Allow the dough to rest for 5 min in the bowl with a towel over it.
Preheat oven 425. Spread dough onto a lightly greased baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal (optional). I find that if I cook the dough for a few minutes (5) before putting the toppings on then the pizza will be done when the cheese is slightly browned.
Top with desired toppings and bake for 20 min.
The recipe says it makes a 14 in pizza. I made a 16 in pizza. with a little extra dough to spare.
I guess it just depends on how thick of crust you like!

Ali's Snack!

When Ali came home from school one day this was the snack that she made.
I just thought it looked so colorful and yummy I had to take a picture!

Chicken Orzo Salad

2009-03-08T17:15:00.002-07:00

Chicken Orzo Salad

3/4 c orzo pasta
Salt and Pepper
6 Tlb extra virgin olive oil
2 Tlb balsamic vinegar
1lb cooked chicken cut up
1 10 oz bag baby spinach
1 red bell pepper
1 c kalamata olives
3/4 c sliced almonds
3 oz parmesan cheese, shaved

* In large saucepan of boiling water, cook orzo until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water. Return to the pot, season with salt and pepper and toss with 1 Tlb olive oil
* Add 1 Tlb balsamic vinegar to a shallow dish. Add chicken turning to coat, then refrigerate for 10 min.
* In a large serving bowl, whisk together 3 Tlb olive oil and the remaining 1 Tlb balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper. Add the spinach, bell pepper and olives, do not toss.
* In med skillet, heat remaining 2 Tlb oil over med heat. Season the chicken with salt and peper and cooked until browned. Let rest for 5 min before slicing.
* Add the orzo to the salad and toss. Top with chicken, almonds, and parmesan.

Brussels Sprouts!

2009-03-08T17:02:00.005-07:00

Have you always hatted Brussels sprouts? Here is a new way to cook Brussel sprouts.
Quite tasty I have to say!

Brussels Sprouts with Pecan and Cranberries

1 lb fresh Brussel sprouts rinsed and trimmed
3 oz coarsely chopped pecans
2 TLB butter
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
4 oz coarsely chopped dried cranberries

Slice the Brussel sprouts using the thinnest slicing disk of a food processor. If you don't have a food processor thinly slice with a knife,
10" saute pan over med-high heat and add the pecans. Cook, stirring continually until the pecan darken in color and begin to give off a toasted aroma. (about 2 min) Add butter to the pan and stir to combine. Once the butter has melted, add the Brussel sprouts, salt, and pepper and cook. stirring continually until the color brightens and the sprouts are just tender ( about 6 min). Remove the pan from heat, add the cranberries, toss and serve.

Pinewood Derby!

2009-02-23T14:40:00.009-07:00

It was Derby weekend!

Brant and Cole worked on his car together and did everything the old original way.
Cut by hand, sanded by hand, painted by hand, and finished it with a little help from the decals.

Cole had a great time and took 5th place out of 20!

Peanut on a date with Mom and Dad!

2009-02-23T14:34:00.005-07:00

This weekend Brant and I were not able to get in our weekly date.
So we took the opportunity on Friday afternoon to take Peanut with us and drive to Scottsdale for a lunch date at Olive and Ivy.
We had a great time and a great lunch!

Cakes!

2009-02-23T14:25:00.004-07:00

For Enrichment night I was asked to make a couple of cakes.
I was excited to make our Valentine cake once again, because it was so delicious.
The other cake Poppy Seed!

I found this recipe and just had to try it.

CHOCOLATE PEAK CUPCAKES!
A chocolate cupcake with Carmel in it, marshmallow creme oozing out, topped with chocolate frosting, and sprinkled with coconut.

After this round I promised my husband I would stop baking.
So the challenge is on lets see how long I make it!

Ali As Jordin Sparks!

2009-02-23T14:10:00.005-07:00

For a school project Ali's class did a wax museum.
Everybody was assigned and had to dress up as someone famous from Arizona.
Ali was assigned Jordin Sparks!
Here she is at her school standing still until someone pushed her button, then she would give a little blurp on Jordin Sparks!
Trying to turn my fair haired blond into a brown girl was a little challenging, especially given what I had to work with and time. We did our best.
She just went from blond to Brunet!

The other kids had fun playing in the wigs.
This is what I have to do if I want a brunet child!

Cole pretending to be a true Rock Star!

Hey all you Family... Doesn't Cole look Just like Paige?

Valenitne's Dinner!

2009-02-16T10:42:00.011-07:00

Evey year for Valentine's Brant makes dinner for us all.
We have a candle light dinner with the kids!
This is Brant signature dish that we all love.
Citrus Salmon!!!

I take care of dessert!

Mile High Cheesecake Layered Chocolate Cake!!!

Yum Yum Yummy!

Brant and I did get to escape and get a real Valentine's date.
He took me shopping and then escaped me off to dinner at
Asia De Cuba!
We had a fabulous time.
Thank you honey for all your thoughtfulness and especially for your romantic skills that keep me falling in love over and over!

Shopping!

2009-02-16T10:31:00.004-07:00

Whitney and I went out to do a little Valentines shopping for everyone.
This is how she begs to go shopping!
Mommy can I please take my baby in her stroller!
I thought I grew out of the stroller taking days. apparently not yet. the roles just reversed she now pushes the stroller and gets to carry as many packages that will fit in tow!
And I get rammed into as she gets distracted.. (people watching)

Valentine's cookies

2009-02-16T10:23:00.003-07:00

When I was a little girl We would get A giant heart valentine cookie in the mail from my Grandma Thomas. She would make the cookies and my Grandpa would decorate them and write our names on them with cinnamon frosting.
As a little girl it was the best valentine!
Ever since we have been married I have made Valentine sugar cookies with cinnamon frosting. To continue the loving tradition of my grandparents!

Doubble Chocolate!

2009-02-11T13:47:00.003-07:00

Dark Double Chocolate Cookies!

Easy dinners!

2009-02-11T13:07:00.006-07:00

Balsamic Bruschetta Chicken
This chicken is so easy to make and Delicious!

4 chicken breast
pinch of salt
1/4 c balsamic vinegar
1/4 c extra virgin olive oil
slices of fresh mozzarella

4 roma tomatoes diced
8 fresh basil leaves (rolled up and chop)
2 cloves fresh garlic minced
pinch of salt
1 TLB balsamic vinegar

Salt your chicken and put in a saute pan over medium heat.
combine balsamic and olive oil in a bowl and bast chicken with it while cooking.
Cook until chicken is cooked through. then the last 2 minutes top each chicken with a fresh slice of mozzarella. Let it melt.
In a bowl combine the tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and balsamic. Toss gently to combine.
Place chicken on a serving plate and top with tomato mixture!

Lasagna Rolls!
A new recipe to spice up the traditional lasagna

White Sauce
2 TLB butter
2 tsp flour
1 1/4 c whole milk
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
pinch ground nutmeg

Lasagna
1 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
1 10 oz pkg frozen spinach, thawed, squeezed dry
1 1/4 c grated Parmesan
3 oz thinly sliced prosciutto, chopped
1 large egg beaten to blend
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1-2 TLB olive oil
12 uncooked lasagna noodles ( l used 15 and filled a 9x13 pan)
2 c marinara sauce
1 c shredded mozzarella

Mix the ricotta, spinach, 1 c Parmesan, prosciutto, egg, salt & pepper in a bowl to blend.

Add 2 TLB of oil to a large pot of boiling water. Boil the noodles just until tender but still firm. Drain, arrange the noodles in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent them from sticking.

Spread 3 TLB of ricotta mixture evenly over each noodle. Starting at 1 end, roll each noodle like a jelly roll. Lay the Lasagna seam side down in dish.

to make white sauce
melt the butter in a heavy medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 3 minutes. Whisk in the milk. Increase the heat to med-high. Whisk the sauce until it becomes thick and smooth. About 3 min. turn down to simmer and add salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Preheat oven 400 degrees

Pour white sauce on the bottom of the 9x13 dish.( or on top of rolls) Lay your rolls on top of sauce. If you have extra ricotta mixture spread it on top of your rolls. Spread marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle the mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan on top of sauce.
cover tightly with foil. Bake until heated through and sauce bubbles, about 20 minutes. Uncover and bake until cheese becomes golden. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving!

Cookies!

2009-02-02T14:53:00.005-07:00

I'm a cookie-holic!
I love cookies therefore I am always finding new cookie recipes.
If you like shortbread cookies you might be interested in these. I'm not a shortbread lover but these were delicious!

Cinnamon Bun Cookies!

Vanilla cookie dough
1/2 c powdered sugar
3/4 c butter
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 c flour

Middle
1 egg white
1 TLB water
1/4 c granulated sugar
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Icing
1/2 c powdered sugar
2 TLb heavy whipping cream
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp cinnamon

*In a mixing bowl combine sugar, butter, salt, and vanilla. blend until combined. Add flour, mix to make a cohesive dough. Flatten the dough into a dish shape on a piece of saran wrap. Wrap it up and refrigerate for 30- 60 min.
Roll the chilled dough to a lightly floured surface. Roll into a 9x 12 inch rectangle. In small bowl, whisk together egg white and water until foamy. Brush onto the rolled out dough. Mix together the cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle on top of dough.
Starting with the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log, sealing the edge.
Wrap it up in plastic wrap and refrigerate or freeze until firm.(freeze doesn't take long)
Unwrap dough and cut into 1/2 inch slices. Transfer to a lightly greased cookie sheet.
Bake 350 12-15 min until lightly golden
I took mine out right when you think they are almost done. So they looked slightly uncooked. Then they where soft and chewy in the middle rather then dry and crumbly like a shortbread
cookie taste.
The icing is a little runny so I put the icing in a Ziploc bag pierced a hole in the corner and iced the cookies. When cooled of course!

Guitar Hero!

2009-02-02T14:48:00.005-07:00

We are Guitar Hero Junkies!

Ravioli Recipe

2009-02-02T14:44:00.005-07:00

Here is the squash ravioli recipe!
The recipe was a little to extensive for me to want to type it all out so I just took a picture! Just click the picture to enlarge it for reading. Or if really interested just let me know and I will email you the recipe.

butternut squash ravioli

2009-01-30T08:37:00.008-07:00

I have to admit one of my favorite channels is the food network.
As if you couldn't tell that to me food is exciting. Sorry for all those who don't like to cook my blog is a bit boring. Soon the heat will strike and then food will just not be so tempting to cook. Because who enjoys standing over a hot stove when its 110 degrees out!
I watched Giada make this dish and I had to try it. It is a little bit time consuming trying to feel and fold each individual ravioli, but the work was well worth it.
It truly is very delicious!
This meal makes a perfect Valentine dinner for your sweatheart.
It will feed 4 adults or a family of 5.

recipe coming soon.

A New Pot Pie!

2009-01-22T09:24:00.007-07:00

I found this new and different pot pie recipe.
If your one that likes to cook new and exciting things this is a good one to try.
We all loved it! (kids included)

Chicken, Leek, & Lemon Pot Pies!

4 C cooked shredded chicken ( I used a roasted chicken like you get from costco) I like that kind of chicken meat in dishes like these. The meat is more moist.
8 cloves of garlic (I used 6)
3 Leeks
1/4 c butter
1/4 c flour
2 cups of chicken stock
1/4 c white wine (optional)
1 TLB chopped fresh tarragon or 1 tsp dry (could also use thyme)
1 TLB fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1/4 c whipping cream
salt and plenty of freshly ground pepper
1 c peas
1 pie crust if you like to make your own ( I used 1 sheet of puff pastry)
1 egg, beaten with a pinch of salt ( I skipped this part)

* Preheat oven 375
Place garlic in cold water, bring to a boil, and boil for a minute or so. Drain and chop.
Wash leeks well and slice into 1/2 inch sections. ( I chopped mine pretty finely and used all the white with a little of the dark green)
Heat butter in skillet over medium heat. Add leeks and garlic and saute for about 3 minutes or until leeks soften. Stir in flour and cook until pale gold, about 4 minutes, adding more butter if needed. Stir in chicken stock, white wine ( if using), tarragon, lemon juice and zest. Bring to a boil. Add cream, peas, and chicken and simmer for 5 minutes or until thick. Season with salt and pepper.
Place in baking dish or individual baking dishes. Roll out pastry. Cut to the size desired and cut a few steam holes in the pastry. brush with egg (if using)
Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown.
I set my baking dishes on a cookie sheet for those ones that overflow a bit!
mine made 7 small souffle dishes!
If you don't want to use individual dishes I think this recipe would make a
thick 8x8 or a thin 9x13.

*Enjoy! It's really yummy if you have a experimental palate!
If not, my traditional chicken pot pie is really good also.( In the ward cookbook.)

Cole's new do!

2009-01-22T09:17:00.006-07:00

Cole wanted a new do!
So this is what his mom gave him. Not only a Mohawk, but also through a little bleach in there to add to the experience.
He was stoked!

Cookbook

2009-01-19T14:55:00.007-07:00

For Christmas my Sister made this very cute cookbook for all the girls in the family!
Here is one of the recipes from our family cookbook.
You all must try this one!
Thanks Natatlie I love it!

The recipe of this delicious bread!
(just click the picture)

Banana Bread!

Lemon Bread!

A New Year! (Ouch)

2009-01-09T11:08:00.004-07:00

The first day of the New year turned out to be a bit painful.
I went to take a shower and as I stepped into the shower somehow my feet just slipped out from under me and I feel right on my back and butt. I lied there yelling ouch ouch and didnt know if I could move or if I broke my butt. Brant was not home and Ali came running in! Mom are you ok? I said no, I don't know. She imeditly turned off the shower put her arms under my armpits and helped me up. I painfullly finished my shower took some pain killers and then was able to function with minor pain.
Sicne I couldnt stand very long Ali offered to make us dinner.( As I'm coaching her)
She is so sweet and was a great help to me this day!
I Love You Ali!
As for me it has been almost 2 weeks and I still need to take IBprophen every day to kill the pain. I can do everything execpt go back to the gym and Im dieing mentally. Hopefully what ever happeded to me will heal soon and I will be back to normal.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE!

New Bread recipe!

2009-01-09T10:49:00.005-07:00

Potato Wheat Bread!

For all those who are bread makers here is a new recipe to try.

6 C hot water
2/3 C oil
2/3 C honey
3 TLB salt
2 eggs slightly beaten
2/3 C powdered milk mixed with 1 cup of whole wheat flour.
3/4 C potato flakes
2 pkgs yeast (2 TLB)
12-13 C whole wheat flour

* Combine in mixer water, oil, honey salt eggs, milk mixture, potato flakes and 7 C of flour. (my experience is put the potato buds which i used into the hot water first so that they melt and soften better.) Mix well. Add yeast and mix well. Add 6-7 more cups of flour and knead for 10 min. ( just mixed on #1 for 10 min). I also needed a little more flour than what the recipe called for. When done dump out and form into 4 loaves. Let rise and Bake 350 for 30-35 minutes.

This bread is a little bit heavier than the traditional wheat recipe which I liked. It makes better toast. Give it a try if your feeling a little bored with the same bread recipe. I'm constantly trying new bread recipes and I liked this one.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-28T19:26:00.008-07:00

I have so many M&M's left over from the Holidays I needed a recipe to make so that I could get rid of some.
If you like quick and simple recipes this is one. I usually don't like to make things from a box, but when it came to making something quick for a Sunday night treat I thought I would try this recipe.

M&M Oatmeal Brownies

2 3/4 C quick cooking oats
1 C flour
1 C firmly packed light brown sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 C butter melted
1 3/4 C milk chocolate M&M's
1 box fudge brownie mix

* Preheat oven 350. In large bowl combine oats, flour, sugar, and baking soda. Add melted butter until mixture forms coarse crumbs. Toss in M&M's. Reserve 2 C of oatmeal mixture. Pat the remaining mixture on bottom of a cookie sheet. (15x10x1). It wont completely cover the bottom but it still works. Prepare brownie mix according to package. Pour over the oatmeal. Sprinkle the remaining mixture on top of brownie batter. Pat down lightly.
Bake 25 min. Cool completely and cut into bars.

Christmas Eve!

They opened there Christmas Eve pajamas, and are to excited to go to bed so that Santa can come!

Orange Rolls!
A Christmas Day Treat.

Rocky road brownies!

2008-12-22T12:53:00.006-07:00

I gave these home made brownies a little extra topping!
When they came out of the oven I drizzled them with some caramel topping, then added miniature marshmallows and milk chocolate chips. I popped them bake in the oven under a low broil just until the marshmallows got a little toasted.

Mom and Natalie this one is for you!

Raspberry brie pastry!
A delicious appetizer!

1/4 c Raspberry jam
1 round block of brie
1 box of frozen pastry dough
*Let the dough sit out until softened. (about 30 minutes) Unfold the the dough, and spread the jam in the center of the dough. Place the brie on top of the jam. Fold it all up around the cheese. You may need to wet the edges just a bit.
Place it on a cookie sheet and bake 350 for 35-45 minutes.
Serve with butter crackers and or graham crackers!

Chocolate & Cinnamon Chip Cookies!

2008-12-18T16:09:00.011-07:00

Whitney wanted to take a treat to school tomorrow, and she choose
chocolate chip cookies!
This is her favorite thing to help me make...and you can see why. She just wants to eat the dough and then she is done with the cookies. I end up eating all of the baked cookies. This could cause a problem!

To give the traditional chocolate chip cookies a little pizazz. I added a cup of Hersey's cinnamon chips.(sometimes they can be hard to find, but worth the look) It worked they are soft, chewy, and scrumptious with a little kick!

Chocolate & Cinnamon Chip Cookies

1 C butter
1 C brown sugar
1/2 C sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
3 C flour
1 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
1 C cinnamon chips
1 C semi choc chips

*preheat oven 350. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Slowly beat in eggs and vanilla. In a large bowl combine the flour, soda, & salt. Slowly add to wet mixture. Mix in chips until just combined. Bake 9-11 minutes.

Cinnamon Rolls

2008-12-17T19:30:00.004-07:00

whole wheat cinnamon rolls!

I'm not one for making up my own recipe's, but the mint cookies turned out so good that I thought I would try experimenting with cinnamon rolls.
I tried turning my whole wheat roll recipe into cinnamon rolls. Here is the finished product!
They were good, but not fantastic!
I will have to put another twist on this recipe next time.
The problem experimenting with dough is it takes a whole lot longer than a batch of cookies.

Chocolate mint cookies!

2008-12-16T15:34:00.006-07:00

After all the Thanksgiving cooking I had to take a break from baking!
Today I returned to the kitchen to start my Holiday baking.

Chocolate mint cookies!
I took a spin off of my favorite chocolate cookie recipe. I made the chocolate cookies and then wrapped dough around a chocolate mint heresy' s kiss and topped them off with a little dusting of snow with powdered sugar.
If you like chocolate and mint these were exceptional!

This is the first of many more holiday baking to come!

Christmas card

2008-12-10T10:35:00.002-07:00

May you all enjoy your Holiday Season!
And
MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Thanksgiving day

2008-12-03T15:05:00.005-07:00

Drapes

2008-12-03T13:50:00.002-07:00

My first pair of Drapes!
Having never sewn drapes before I thought that my bedroom was a safe place to start.
Three days worth of work and Here is the finished product!

What a bad choice

2008-12-03T13:41:00.006-07:00

On Tuesday Cole did not want to go to school, so Brant gave him the choice to stay home and do chores and not go to his soccer party that night, or go to school. Well Cole decided to stay home! Brant made him a list of 30 chores to do. Brant laughed to himself and said he will never finish this list. So off to work Brant went and I was stuck home all day babysitting Cole to make sure he lived up to his end of the bargain.
8:00 came and he started on the list!
* Wiping down all baseboards!

*Dusting the house

*Cleaning his Sister's room's

*Cleaning the bathroom's!

These were just a few of the many he did. The little turd worked all day with a happy attitude, and FINISHED all 30 chores by 4:30.
My house is as clean as a 8 year old boy could do.
Today he chose to go to school!
Good Choice!

Bluebird CT Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T13:38:00.014-07:00

Thanksgiving on Bluebird Court!

On Monday night for Family night we had our annual court Thanksgiving Dinner.
Michele cooked the turkey this year, and organized the gathering. Thanks Michele! She did a awesome job! We are so blessed to have such fabulous neighbors.

Turkey Cookies

2008-11-06T13:45:00.003-07:00

Today we made Turkey cookies!
Whitney has snack day tomorrow at school, so we thought that we would be festive and make some edible Turkeys!

Halloween

2008-11-01T16:15:00.013-07:00

Brant picking up Ali from trick or treating, giving her a bike ride home! Notice the jackets @ 9:00p.m. We love Halloween nights here in Arizona. We actually get to show off the costumes! We sure dont miss those cold Utah Halloween nights. All bundled up!

Peanut costume

2008-11-01T16:13:00.002-07:00

Happy Halloween!
Our little Barbie Witch!

Cole costume

2008-11-01T16:06:00.004-07:00

Our very scary Wolf!

Ali Costume

2008-11-01T16:04:00.002-07:00

Our Pirate, Skull Girl!

Pumpkin Cupcakes

2008-10-14T15:20:00.008-07:00

Peanut and I made pumpkin cupcakes today!

If any of you have seen Family Circle this month these are there cupcakes.

pumpkin cupcakes with cream cheese frosting.

They are delicious!!

Pumpkin Cupcakes

3 c flour
1 TLB pumpkin pie spice
2 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 c granulated sugar
3/4 c canola oil
1/2 c buttermilk
1 can (15oz) pumpkin puree
4 eggs
Beat sugar, oil, buttermilk, pumpkin & eggs in a large bowl on low speed for about 2 minutes. Slowly add all dry ingredients.
Bake 350. regular size 18min. for mini size 12 min

Frosting
1 8 oz cream cheese softened
3/4 C butter (1 1/2 sticks)
16 oz of powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 TLB milk
orange food coloring
pretzel sticks for stems

New Pressure Cooker

2008-10-13T17:28:00.011-07:00

I got a electric Cuisinart pressure cooker this Summer for my birthday. Finally I put it to the test this week. I made baby back ribs in 20 minutes, then threw them on the grill to cook in the BBQ sauce. In 30 minutes we had tender ribs.
The kids gave it a thumbs up, and ranked it right up there with one of the best meals!

Peanut's 1st Dance Recital

2008-10-13T14:42:00.009-07:00

This year Whitney had her first dance recital.
They did their dance to the three little pigs.
This is our little piggy!