tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77960303416970456112024-02-01T18:49:01.255-08:00Don't be fooled by my pink converse...BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.comBlogger116125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-29700141353783413612012-12-21T11:02:00.000-08:002012-12-21T11:02:52.404-08:00Merry Christmas Cookies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sam's second playdate was a success! Our friends Jess (the mama) and Cayden came over this afternoon. First order of business: lunch! The boys had quite a feast- eggplant fries courtesy of Jess- yum!, cheese, chicken, roast acorn squash, and tofu- the mom's had sandwiches! <br />
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Sam was in awe of Cayden's ability to walk- he's so close to crawling! <br />
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See! Crawling is so close, yet so far- finally getting that belly off the ground. Go Sammy, go! <br />
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Then they played pass the pacifier (ew, but funny) and tease the doggie! <br />
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Next up- tissue paper shredding! Who knew we had so many fun things to play with at our house? They were so sweet with each other- Sam definitely needs to hang out with other kiddos more often. Mama is old news- other babies are so fun to poke and be poked by! <br />
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While the boys crawled, cruised, walked, and fell over, Jess and I got busy decorating! I've mentioned my 1st edition Betty Crocker's Picture Cook Book before- I still love it. It's just so...of the times. It suggests broiled grapefruit, peanut butter-bacon canapes, and jellied bouillon for appetizers and has a three page spread on table service.<br />
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Considering how much I enjoy keeping house, I think I was born in the wrong era. Though I'm pretty sure my <a href="http://thedailylindsey.com/2009/09/urban-outfitters-where-the-wild-things-are/" target="_blank">Where the Wild Things Are</a> t-shirt would not have been considered appropriate mommy attire for a playdate...or ever.<br />
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I followed the recipe for the light dough:</div>
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1/3 cup soft shortening (I used unsalted butter)</div>
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1/2 cup white sugar</div>
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1 egg</div>
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2/3 cup honey (I used half honey, half maple syrup)</div>
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1 tsp vanilla </div>
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2 3/4 cups flour (I used <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/king-arthur-white-whole-wheat-flour-5-lb" target="_blank">King Arthur White Whole Wheat</a>) </div>
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1 tsp baking soda</div>
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1 tsp salt</div>
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Mix together thoroughly: shortening/butter, sugar, egg, honey, and vanilla. Sift together and stir in: flour, baking soda, and salt.</div>
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Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes (I baked for 8 minutes and they came out perfect!)</div>
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These have a definite honey taste and are super sweet, but isn't that what you want in a iced sugar cookie? Besides, I think people who say things are "too sweet" are bonkers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhycMGMXvaPjCpg7naakGAjGNl0SIG2HVerZnauyWUSa0XAPdZ7L2obCJA0mKn52lKUyqI_SCkr7jY8d8ksOOoVzOUtYfQq9UDc0y3HKH0tBtYPuWc-gnIy32NoJpiNgaga1IoxIBSXYBDD/s1600/DSCN1754.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhycMGMXvaPjCpg7naakGAjGNl0SIG2HVerZnauyWUSa0XAPdZ7L2obCJA0mKn52lKUyqI_SCkr7jY8d8ksOOoVzOUtYfQq9UDc0y3HKH0tBtYPuWc-gnIy32NoJpiNgaga1IoxIBSXYBDD/s320/DSCN1754.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div>
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<span style="color: #0000ee;">Rather than dealing with<span style="color: #0000ee;"> homemade frosting, I bought the Betty C<span style="color: #0000ee;">rocker cookie icing. It wo<span style="color: #0000ee;">rked p<span style="color: #0000ee;">erfectly and was pretty much mess free- love! The taste isn't half bad either...I<span style="color: #0000ee;"> love how I'm be<span style="color: #0000ee;">ing so non-committal about the taste- I've eaten like 7 <span style="color: #0000ee;">cookies! They are delicious. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;">Must give them all <span style="color: #0000ee;">away NOW. </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </div>
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This one is clearly my favorite- that white blob would be a shout out to my hometown!<br />
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-53543390429536130682012-12-20T06:49:00.002-08:002012-12-20T06:49:23.583-08:00Tea CrazySince I started staying home home with Sam, I've developed a few routines. Dishes are done in the morning, pajama Tuesdays, toys picked up just before bed, ironing on Thursdays, and a cup of tea every afternoon. I brew it shortly after Sam goes down for his afternoon nap and savor the warmth and silence. <br />
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I'm kind of obsessed with the holiday teas that are out right now. The <a href="http://shop.celestialseasonings.com/Sugar-Cookie-Sleigh-Ride-/p/CEL-053696&c=CelestialSeasonings@Holiday" target="_blank">Sugar Cookie Sleigh Ride</a> from Celestial Seasonings is so delightful that I bought 4 boxes when I finally found them again at Target! <a href="http://shop.celestialseasonings.com/Candy-Cane-Lane-/p/CEL-100727&c=CelestialSeasonings@Holiday" target="_blank">Candy Cane Lane</a> is a great palate cleanser. And, cross my heart, the <a href="http://www.bigelowtea.com/Catalog/Product/65/68/532/Holiday+Tea+Assortment.aspx" target="_blank">Eggnogg'n</a> from Bigelow ACTUALLY tastes like eggnog. Now if you're an eggnog hater (and if you are- I hope you know you are on the naughty list!), you're not gonna be a fan. But if you're a eggnog loving, Christmas song singing elf, you'll be all over this brew. I've also had the <a href="http://shop.celestialseasonings.com/Gingerbread-Spice-/p/CEL-053689&c=CelestialSeasonings@Holiday" target="_blank">Gingerbread Spice</a> tea which is wonderful with a bit of sugar and milk. <br />
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Tea is served up in one of my truly awesome mugs- the Christmas Disney Spode cup lives in our cupboard all year long and I bought the lemon one at a church auction 7 years ago. </div>
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And the cow mug...well, she's just a moosterpiece (get it!?). </div>
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These opinions are all my own- I wasn't compensated for any of my rave reviews...but I'm not opposed to the idea.<br />
<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-49572437196154931132012-12-19T07:00:00.002-08:002012-12-19T12:36:34.231-08:00Oatmeal Raisin Cookies in a Jar<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBRc7gZrP7lw7DQyUpAHydGXmQ1OuDfVX73lwtQtjc-MmHJve-Cg2fuAL8mwd8wWeC7D3ZVngFFcZVHo7C6HRLQzlUGChaybObcO7dA4aPaR15AmTO00-q_NVtRZVpr4cXSHH4XOsAPrRh/s1600/DSCN1737.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBRc7gZrP7lw7DQyUpAHydGXmQ1OuDfVX73lwtQtjc-MmHJve-Cg2fuAL8mwd8wWeC7D3ZVngFFcZVHo7C6HRLQzlUGChaybObcO7dA4aPaR15AmTO00-q_NVtRZVpr4cXSHH4XOsAPrRh/s320/DSCN1737.JPG" width="240" /></a> </span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">In an effort to have a more homemade (and affordable) Christmas, I decided to put together some cookie mixes to give away to friends and family. My sister did this last year and it was lovely! </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">I wanted to make these cookies super simple so I decided to use melted butter in the recipe rather than softened butter. I can't make it any easier than melting, cooling, dumping, and stirring- if you can't handle that, you oughta pour yourself a Bailey's and take a holiday hiatus. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBRc7gZrP7lw7DQyUpAHydGXmQ1OuDfVX73lwtQtjc-MmHJve-Cg2fuAL8mwd8wWeC7D3ZVngFFcZVHo7C6HRLQzlUGChaybObcO7dA4aPaR15AmTO00-q_NVtRZVpr4cXSHH4XOsAPrRh/s1600/DSCN1737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">I bought my jars at <a href="http://www.stopandshop.com/home.htm" target="_blank">Stop and Shop</a> where I got 12 quart jars for $10. While you're buying the jars, let me also recommend that you buy a funnel. I didn't and well...let's be honest. There was a lot of spillage. Pretty sure I'll be sweeping up flour and sugar for days to come. Don't be like me! </span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">This is not a quick project, but I did enjoy it! I made 8 jars in total- if you're gonna go through the steps, you might as well make a bunch! I put <a href="http://www.cbs.com/shows/how_i_met_your_mother/" target="_blank">How I Met Your Mother</a> on <a href="https://signup.netflix.com/" target="_blank">Netflix </a>and measured away!</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">Directions! </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">Layer the following ingredients in 1 quart jar starting with the raisins on the bottom and ending with the flour on top. See picture above! Each jar makes roughly 36 cookies. </span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">1 1/4 cups flour (I used a whole wheat/white blend)</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">3/4 tsp baking powder</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">1/2 tsp baking soda</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">1/2 tsp salt</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">1/2 cup packed brown sugar</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">3/4 cup white sugar</span></span> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">1 cup old fashioned oats</span></span> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">1/2 cup raisins </span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">Attach the following directions to each jar of cookie mix! To make it extra special, you could also include a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Norpro-Stainless-Steel-Scoop-Tablespoon/dp/B00004UE85/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1355928822&sr=8-2&keywords=cookie+scoop" target="_blank">cookie scoop</a> like this one. Cookie scoops make perfect cookies attainable for everyone!</span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">Oatmeal Raisin Cookies</span></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">Preheat oven to 350.
</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">Empty contents of
jar into large mixing bowl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stir to
combine ingredients.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">In a separate bowl,
melt one stick (1/2 cup) of butter and let cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To butter, add two eggs, and 1 ½ tsp of
vanilla extract.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whisk to combine.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">Add butter/egg
mixture to dry ingredients and stir until just mixed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Drop tablespoonfuls of batter 2 inches
apart onto ungreased cookie sheet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bake
10-12 minutes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Kristen ITC";">Ingredients: white
and whole wheat flour, old fashioned oats, raisins, baking powder, baking soda,
salt, white sugar, brown sugar</span></div>
BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-1280060510170883002012-12-18T17:57:00.001-08:002012-12-18T17:57:04.445-08:00Coming Soon to a Blog (and belly) Near You!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtM3Ir9ba1VWdlQCmZFMv2nlP8B3xB1L0eHhw-C0suE8UcQi3KbI-gOIxxpSKU7Lhc1Cj-IP7VuKGIROjXlzjrTkIWtL9SNs5oxjSuVhs3DNISWqEjRzbgJFyoKMj33ptEEtYhWIs3jxC/s1600/DSCN1732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtM3Ir9ba1VWdlQCmZFMv2nlP8B3xB1L0eHhw-C0suE8UcQi3KbI-gOIxxpSKU7Lhc1Cj-IP7VuKGIROjXlzjrTkIWtL9SNs5oxjSuVhs3DNISWqEjRzbgJFyoKMj33ptEEtYhWIs3jxC/s320/DSCN1732.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Starring: Sherry-soaked fruitcake, lemon citron fruitcake, oatmeal raisin cookies in a jar, and Merry Christmas cookies!</b></span></div>
BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-29267021807719508282012-10-19T12:51:00.000-07:002012-10-19T12:51:18.755-07:00Pumpkin Pie Kettle Corn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Who doesn't love kettle corn? Crazy people. There's nothing not to love about something that's crunchy, salty, and sweet- the triple threat of yumminess.<br />
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Nick and I regularly snack on popcorn. We used the air popper until we woke Sam up one night with it- no snack is worth waking a sleeping baby. Unless we want to pop corn in the basement, we needed an alternative- enter the stove top!<br />
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Making kettle corn at home is surprisingly easy, if a bit messy. You also need to be vigilant- this is not something you can set and forget unless you want to burn down your house (or ruin a pan). <br />
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Before I send you on your merry way, let's discuss one more thing. Oftentimes in cooking, more is more. What recipe doesn't benefit from a bit more butter or another slice of bacon? This recipe is not one of those. I'll leave you with this warning: if you augment the spices in this recipe, you risk having potpourri to eat rather than kettle corn. Spice at your own risk!<br />
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<u><b>Pumpkin Pie Kettle Corn</b></u><br />
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1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice<br />
1/4 ground cinnamon<br />
1/4 cup + 1 tsp granulated white sugar<br />
1/2 tsp sea salt<br />
2 tbsp olive oil<br />
3/4 cup (6 oz.) popcorn kernels<br />
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In a small bowl, combine the pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, 1 tsp sugar, and sea salt. Stir to combine and set aside.<br />
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In a large pot that has a tight fitting lid (I use a large stock pot that I also use for cooking pasta) add the olive oil, 1/4 cup sugar, and popcorn kernels. Using a wooden spoon, stir to make sure all kernels are coated with oil and sugar.<br />
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Place lid on pan and put the pan over medium heat. Stand close by so you can hear the sizzling begin and the popcorn begin to pop. As the popcorn pops, frequently raise the pan an inch or two off the heat and shake from side to side, about every 2 minutes or so. This ensure that the popcorn doesn't stick to the bottom and burn. Continue to do this until the popping slows to about 1 pop per 5 seconds. In total, the popping time is less than 5 minutes.<br />
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Once the popcorn is popped, remove the pan from the heat. Immediately pour the popcorn into a large serving bowl and add the sugar/spice/salt mixture. To ensure even distribution, I sprinkle half of the sugar/spice/salt mixture over the popcorn, stir to coat, and then sprinkle the rest and stir to coat. <br />
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Makes roughly 11 cups of popcorn<br />
Serving = 2 cups<br />
Total servings ~5<br />
Weight Watchers Points Plus per serving= 5<br />
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-86474317847483234472012-10-09T12:17:00.004-07:002012-10-09T12:18:17.347-07:00Roasted Red Pepper HummusSince joining Weight Watchers, I've been looking for satisfying snacks that don't cost me a lot of points. I pair this hummus with a cup of sugar snap peas for some mid-afternoon crunch. This cheerful dip celebrates the colors of the season- it's vibrant orange-red color brightens up any plate.<br />
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This is hardly a recipe. If anything, it's just a list of ingredients that are easily adaptable to create any kind of glorious chickpea dip that your heart desires! <br />
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<u><b>Roasted Red Pepper Hummus</b></u><br />
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2 tbsp tahini (sesame paste), optional but recommended<br />
2 tbsp olive oil<br />
10 oz. canned or fresh chickpeas *If using canned make sure to drain and rinse.<br />
5 oz. roasted red peppers, packed in water<br />
1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional, but still recommended<br />
1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground<br />
1/2 tsp sea salt<br />
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Add all ingredients to a food processor. Blend until smooth. If the mixture becomes too thick, add tablespoons of water, one at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.<br />
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Serving size: 2 tablespoons<br />
Servings: 12<br />
WW Points Plus: 2 per serving<br />
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Dig in!</div>
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-76033497844990747112012-09-27T13:28:00.000-07:002012-09-27T13:29:13.097-07:00Potato Bacon Soup<div style="text-align: center;">
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Ask and ye shall receive. This lovely soup was a gift to my dear husband, who requested it a few weeks ago. It was so good I got a mid-dinner kiss. You should make this for your sweetheart and reap the rewards! </div>
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<u><b> Potato Bacon Soup</b></u><br />
6 slices center cut bacon, chopped into small pieces<br />
1 tsp olive oil <br />
2 small onions, diced<br />
2 pounds potatoes, diced <br />
4 cups vegetable broth (I used two bouillon cubes dissolved in 4 cups of hot water because that's what I had) <br />
2 cups 1% milk<br />
salt and pepper to taste <br />
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In a large stock pot, fry up the bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 5-8 minutes. Drain off fat and remove bacon bits to a plate covered in two paper towels to drain. Wipe out the pan with paper towels, but do not wash.<br />
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Add the olive oil and heat pan over medium low. Add the onions and stir. Sprinkle in about 1/4 tsp of sea salt to get the onions to sweat out their lovely juices. Saute onions until they begin to soften, but do not let them brown.<br />
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Into the hot pan with the onions, add about a cup of the vegetable broth. Scrape up all the <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/Cooking-Definition-Fond-7607518" target="_blank">fond</a> and deglaze the pan. Let the broth cook out for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously. Add the rest of the broth and the potatoes. Bring to a bubble over medium high heat and the reduce back to medium. Cook covered until the potatoes are soft, around 20 minutes. <br />
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Measure out your milk and, if it's cold, add a few scoops of the hot broth to it to bring it to temperature. Add it to the soup and stir to combine.<br />
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Add two thirds of the bacon bits to the soup.<br />
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Using an immersion blender, regular blender, or food processor, blend the soup to a smooth consistency. This is key. Because the soup has neither cream nor butter, this step really creates a velvety mouthfeel without added butterfat. <br />
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Makes 6 servings. Top with reserved bacon bits and some cheese, if desired. <br />
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<i>Weight Watchers Points Plus</i>- 5 per 1.5 cup serving<br />
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-91138222165964769832012-09-08T05:57:00.001-07:002012-09-08T05:57:33.160-07:00Super Fast Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits<div style="text-align: center;">
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Sometimes, you just need a biscuit.<br />
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Nothing fancy, just a bite of bready goodness to get you started on the right track. Or maybe you just came back from a run and think you need some carbs to replenish your glycogen stores...because you know, 3 miles really wipes you out.<br />
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This would be the recipe for you. I made these free-form, which is code for ugly. You could shape them and an egg wash to the top to make them prettier, if you're into that sort of thing. But that would make them just regular cinnamon sugar biscuits, instead of super fast. <br />
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<u><b>Super Fast Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits</b></u><br />
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2 cups whole wheat flour<br />
1/4 cup dark brown sugar<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp salt <br />
3/4 cup milk (I used unsweetened almond milk)<br />
1 egg<br />
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Preheat oven to 425.<br />
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In a medium mixing bowl, add whole wheat flour, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Using either your hands or a pastry cutter, mix well until brown sugar is well incorporated and distributed into the flour mixture.<br />
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In a separate bowl, add the milk and egg. Gentle whisk to combine.<br />
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Add milk mixture to the flour mixture and mix until just combined.<br />
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Using a 1/4 measuring cup, measure out 6 biscuits. Place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.<br />
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Bake for 10 minutes. Place on rack and cool slightly. Best served warm with butter and jam. <br />
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Total time: 15 minutes. From oven to blog in 30. </div>
BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-68937954329667615672012-08-29T05:00:00.000-07:002012-08-29T05:00:08.456-07:00My best burger and fries<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Burgers and fries...I'm not sure that there is much else to say besides that you should make this immediately. </div>
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DO IT NOW!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZu4S2p5KQvOE0AQnCwW1Q8Y9isaIbJX2l_FjbBujIAJ3QYAPqp7FwcZCoW4qKOhPf8RXh2MT2Iwa-9Ui4A_Rwa9zWQ-m9hPJQRZz4poxdOj0T2gsMNkDN-z7dAtCkBv5vpTmwOwqh3mx/s1600/DSCN0985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZu4S2p5KQvOE0AQnCwW1Q8Y9isaIbJX2l_FjbBujIAJ3QYAPqp7FwcZCoW4qKOhPf8RXh2MT2Iwa-9Ui4A_Rwa9zWQ-m9hPJQRZz4poxdOj0T2gsMNkDN-z7dAtCkBv5vpTmwOwqh3mx/s320/DSCN0985.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<u><b>My Best Burger </b></u><br />
1 pound ground beef<br />
1/2 small onion<br />
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (2 good shakes)<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp ground pepper (a few good grinds)<br />
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In a large bowl, add the ground beef. Grate the onion over the ground beef using a microplane or the small-holed side of a box grater. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Using your hands, gently mix until well-combined. <br />
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Form into 4 patties and chill in the fridge until you're ready to grill. I'm not going to tell you how to grill them because if you don't already know how to do that, I'm not sure anyone can help you. <br />
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Serves 4 (or 2). <br />
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<u><b>Truffle Oil and Parmesan French Fries</b></u><br />
3 medium russet potatoes, washed (and peeled, if you're into that kind of thing)<br />
3 tbsp olive oil<br />
2 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp ground pepper (a few good grinds)<br />
1 oz. Parmesan cheese<br />
3 tsp truffle oil<br />
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Preheat oven to 450. Slice the potatoes into 2 inch by 1/2 sticks. Place on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper and mix well with your hands until all potatoes are evenly coated. <br />
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Bake for 30 minutes, turning fries once halfway through.<br />
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After the fries are done grate the Parmesan over the top and drizzle on the truffle oil before removing fries from the baking sheet. Toss to coat. <br />
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Serves 2 very hungry, happy people. <br />
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I served this gorgeous dinner alongside Dark and Stormy cocktails. Recipe <a href="http://www.ifyoucanmakethatyoucanmakethis.com/archives/2450" target="_blank">here</a>. So completely refreshing. <br />
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-6433085129432894732012-08-28T07:08:00.000-07:002012-08-28T07:08:05.540-07:00A race to remember <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I missed running. After running a half marathon last year, I lost my drive. Burn out is totally real, plus I had pretty much crippled my hips with poor training. </div>
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Then I got pregnant and had the perfect excuse to stick to walking. Running with a basketball attached to your front is awkward and ya know, I didn't want the baby to fall out. </div>
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After Sam was born all I wanted to do was get out of the house, but my stupid c-section benched me for 6 weeks. Around week 4 I decided to throw caution to the wind and walk the dog. I didn't die. At week 8, I ran my first mile and I've been trying to get my groove back ever since.</div>
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But then I had another excuse- I was SO tired. There is a reason sleep deprivation is used as torture- after weeks of no sleep, I would have confessed to pretty much anything just to get some shut eye. </div>
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I signed up for the <a href="http://www.baevents.com/elvis/" target="_blank">Memphis Soul 5K BBQ run</a> in the midst of my postpartum haze. I figured it would motivate me to get in shape.</div>
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It didn't. </div>
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And then...out of nowhere...a miracle happened. Sam slept through the night. 12 beautiful hours of peace and quiet. Then, he did it again. And again. A whole week of glorious sleep- I was beyond thrilled. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdUmQ4OrECMZsdOo9tBeJXNK052y5OVvQ-n2-0vPHD9CmlKfZayi8git-VqlriVpEnqY9NT_S4IRSKGwX6mzj9u83vfTDIfYlvELU31htSSG8lqeXSuVhkh7e1jw8xzUP-AKbS9cbCoTr/s1600/DSCN0952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdUmQ4OrECMZsdOo9tBeJXNK052y5OVvQ-n2-0vPHD9CmlKfZayi8git-VqlriVpEnqY9NT_S4IRSKGwX6mzj9u83vfTDIfYlvELU31htSSG8lqeXSuVhkh7e1jw8xzUP-AKbS9cbCoTr/s320/DSCN0952.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cheer squad!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZLcjr65wZGCTzMOECEajnR1FFmNxDfuO0VtkhlTzy9W6ReudtzkxV4y4q9cCao9l_3VYgLjmbOwNcRBacGnTFO9vylUm9SsmHiNvAjqDigN0xgubULS_j37wIdsRvKOFG_kdztx82Wrm/s1600/DSCN0953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZLcjr65wZGCTzMOECEajnR1FFmNxDfuO0VtkhlTzy9W6ReudtzkxV4y4q9cCao9l_3VYgLjmbOwNcRBacGnTFO9vylUm9SsmHiNvAjqDigN0xgubULS_j37wIdsRvKOFG_kdztx82Wrm/s320/DSCN0953.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Any race that starts at a bar has got to be a good time.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieqgTRZkJnvn0LSxDJuVOGncnL2YDiOUJP2CeiZIDP-EgppQIid9Ilsjx_pyWyMnU6QzuDVe3XSHrsu-48IzPVgU6jm5i9oM4ZyIJs_tTe-BP8bw7u38VbTjhY-kujTKZPqIHQMZtOCep-/s1600/DSCN0954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieqgTRZkJnvn0LSxDJuVOGncnL2YDiOUJP2CeiZIDP-EgppQIid9Ilsjx_pyWyMnU6QzuDVe3XSHrsu-48IzPVgU6jm5i9oM4ZyIJs_tTe-BP8bw7u38VbTjhY-kujTKZPqIHQMZtOCep-/s320/DSCN0954.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-hsdwugvZj1fXV0JtVk1DiIoewVUsEjHPbasn7aF273GrungRREYYrPQXfpcLjbLRw4lUvKAftYKPkyQaF0UqsxOCmpPjihHR3EP1qSFo8lmanGcGu2C-mdEXErJd1sIPQf5fWcIGnn6a/s1600/DSCN0955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-hsdwugvZj1fXV0JtVk1DiIoewVUsEjHPbasn7aF273GrungRREYYrPQXfpcLjbLRw4lUvKAftYKPkyQaF0UqsxOCmpPjihHR3EP1qSFo8lmanGcGu2C-mdEXErJd1sIPQf5fWcIGnn6a/s320/DSCN0955.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This would be my pace- what up, slow folks? The 10 minute pace group
was HUGE and likely full of a more than a few liars. 10 minute miles
are no joke. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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I finished in 36:27 which would be a 11:44 minute mile- booyeah!<br />
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And then I came home and made bread. I know, I know- not the best way to cool down, but so, so worth it. Plus, since I didn't buy bread this week, Nick's sandwiches would have been very sad without it.<br />
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I followed <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/baking-recipe-whole-wheat-sandwich-breadrecipes-from-the-kitchn-167267" target="_blank">this </a>recipe from TheKitchn to the letter and it was wonderful! The tutorials were also super helpful. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVHRAH9DzfmMoRYaNURKs5xHjOHokRvqo1A3xTSGWfCTnfAWiMtuehhiVTFd45PPNbfIDbc0mrL0c7La-TUahkJcVG4jH9_KC_pIdP3LsYRYzLMoS9X145tz16GzExAP-gAwMO8UYprbPu/s1600/DSCN0959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVHRAH9DzfmMoRYaNURKs5xHjOHokRvqo1A3xTSGWfCTnfAWiMtuehhiVTFd45PPNbfIDbc0mrL0c7La-TUahkJcVG4jH9_KC_pIdP3LsYRYzLMoS9X145tz16GzExAP-gAwMO8UYprbPu/s320/DSCN0959.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Sometimes I like to pretend that I'm one of those fancy bloggers who gets everything all set up and pretty and uses a light box to get the perfect shot....then I stop being polite and start getting real. Please note the giant stuffed carrot in the background. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VocJPQzDtUZcJfLucX6pDh4Vx6jAkCI_wf3WB0pHJZ39mr2gbaO-Qye-cleAdJlREtcKm-gqmPNnR6c7D8h9DUR4YXyKQb7rU9YVV-q2XKAEIBJNVsm5xCN5DyUiK_LbA8b5nC73_Ufi/s1600/DSCN0960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VocJPQzDtUZcJfLucX6pDh4Vx6jAkCI_wf3WB0pHJZ39mr2gbaO-Qye-cleAdJlREtcKm-gqmPNnR6c7D8h9DUR4YXyKQb7rU9YVV-q2XKAEIBJNVsm5xCN5DyUiK_LbA8b5nC73_Ufi/s320/DSCN0960.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PMyWkVVpxImPiZmT3HWvtjDasBNYdndU5FLzA5BHaU3OVH_Bs2X_nPpQPf1jKVH6WAFkuYVprp3CEGh2etkfE33ZZ36D-_do4AaDzDas2SJO2N2b0E-71Gnb-w8YDq89sVgZnh8a8IP_/s1600/DSCN0962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PMyWkVVpxImPiZmT3HWvtjDasBNYdndU5FLzA5BHaU3OVH_Bs2X_nPpQPf1jKVH6WAFkuYVprp3CEGh2etkfE33ZZ36D-_do4AaDzDas2SJO2N2b0E-71Gnb-w8YDq89sVgZnh8a8IP_/s320/DSCN0962.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Does anyone else think that <a href="http://www.sea-monkey.com/" target="_blank">sea monkeys </a>and yeast are the same thing? Alive, yet not alive...and 100% weird.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOGn_JQnMnXSx2d8M8t3TWl0ec2IQKlLXQ78siBxvz_jADgxCLVjQKyUtyc08DdkF2au7skhaX-0aKgN89LeHLz1QBdODzSbQuSHGUgv4iCFXGinzOdtgP57VcrK2hfpT8csLWeyXt__FP/s1600/DSCN0964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOGn_JQnMnXSx2d8M8t3TWl0ec2IQKlLXQ78siBxvz_jADgxCLVjQKyUtyc08DdkF2au7skhaX-0aKgN89LeHLz1QBdODzSbQuSHGUgv4iCFXGinzOdtgP57VcrK2hfpT8csLWeyXt__FP/s320/DSCN0964.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXfrLEtPDC0IQq_5xhcRlcbksaDM2hUqxw-0NxHtT4ulBamHoMk6u3zLK_NFHVElB1usUaerThMQB1wpbYgUMGrCLAhzwBysBa0TgMj5YE27y7W8HITiYW1QKWUIsirxtyVFfzaQC7S8I/s1600/DSCN0966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXfrLEtPDC0IQq_5xhcRlcbksaDM2hUqxw-0NxHtT4ulBamHoMk6u3zLK_NFHVElB1usUaerThMQB1wpbYgUMGrCLAhzwBysBa0TgMj5YE27y7W8HITiYW1QKWUIsirxtyVFfzaQC7S8I/s320/DSCN0966.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDT3zLPuplblSMG79ZkVcQPVckjxwq_1l4xM27KT0idgPziD-nThYqhK861oiFdJ6daStS2y7ahuiJrSV88jZb6dCXhV-Dthx3utChK3fG_rb6BXeu_Qh2f_iA5hGfO8SYdhRxmJg2sgHc/s1600/DSCN0967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDT3zLPuplblSMG79ZkVcQPVckjxwq_1l4xM27KT0idgPziD-nThYqhK861oiFdJ6daStS2y7ahuiJrSV88jZb6dCXhV-Dthx3utChK3fG_rb6BXeu_Qh2f_iA5hGfO8SYdhRxmJg2sgHc/s320/DSCN0967.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kneading is seriously so much fun.</td></tr>
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My first rise was in the oven with just the light on. This provides just enough warmth to get the dough puffing. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out that crumb!!!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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If only I had a video of the bread happy dance I did after this came out of the oven...I probably wouldn't post it, but I would watch it on bad days and remember how completely awesome I am.<br />
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Finally, a PSA for you, good readers- don't start making bread at 6:45 PM. You will be up LATE. BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-73149671256506914082012-08-26T19:11:00.002-07:002012-08-26T19:11:46.663-07:00Desperately seeking autumn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I think I'm losing my Texas flair.</div>
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I'm hot ALL.THE.TIME. And I hate it. </div>
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There, I said it. </div>
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I'm hot and it's only been 80 degrees this week. I realize it's somewhere near 110 in Dallas and that I am completely lame for complaining about a hot New England summer. </div>
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In my defense, I must say that I am attached to a small person for at least 10 hours a day and he is a freaking furnace! This kid sweats all the time. I don't know how many times I've checked his temperature only to find out he's a totally normal 98.6. </div>
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Since I'm hot all the time, the most logical thing would be to bake, no? I realize I am a masochist, but I had a very important playdate to attend and treats were necessary. And because I am so desperately longing for fall, I figured I could transport my taste buds forward with a well-chosen cake. </div>
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When I think of fall, I think of cinnamon: apple pie, spice cookies, chili. Cinnamon adds warmth to any dish. To indulge my autumnal desires, I found the Sour Cream Spice Cake recipe in my very favorite cookbook- Betty Crocker's Picture Cookbook. I love my 1st edition- it is so charmingly retro and informative. </div>
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<u><b>Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake </b></u><br />
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Adapted from the Betty Crocker Picture Cookbook:<br />
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For one 13x9 oblong cake:<br />
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3 eggs<br />
1 1/2 cups sugar<br />
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
3/4 tsp baking soda<br />
1 tsp vanilla (my addition)<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 1/2 cups sour cream (I used low-fat)<br />
3 tbsp salted butter, melted<br />
1/4 cup dark brown sugar<br />
2 tsp cinnamon<br />
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Preheat oven to 350. Grease the 13x9 pan. <br />
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In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir to combine and set aside. <br />
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In a stand mixer, add eggs and beat until very thick (5 minutes). Then, gradually beat in the sugar.<br />
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To the egg and sugar mixture, alternate adding the flour mixture and sour cream until all combined. Pour the batter into the pan and spread evenly.<br />
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To make the cinnamon swirl, combine the melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar. Stir until well combined. Dollop the mixture on top of the batter. Using a knife or offset spatula, carefully swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter. Start by putting the tip of the knife in one corner of the batter- it should be touching the bottom. Without removing the knife, drag it in a straight line through the batter to the other end of the pan. Move it over about 1 inch and repeat. Do this until you have waves of cinnamon sugar in one direction. Repeat going the other direction.<br />
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Bake about 30-35 minutes. <br />
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2 year old approved!<br />
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Mom approved!<br />
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More scenes from the day:<br />
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<br />I swear, someday they will be the best of friends.<br />
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They just don't know it, yet.<br />
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-38626576124237710542012-08-21T06:22:00.001-07:002012-08-23T06:48:26.531-07:00The Mystery of the Red Bananas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In case you weren't aware, the lovely yellow bananas we all love are under <a href="http://www.npr.org/2011/07/22/138610585/yes-we-do-have-bananas-for-now" target="_blank">attack</a>. Considering the sheer amount of banana love out there, this is pretty concerning. </div>
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I decided to expand my banana horizons and try red bananas. Allegedly, they are not susceptible to the same fungus as our beloved Cavendish bananas and thus will be around for years to come. </div>
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Plus, they are pretty! </div>
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The problem started after I brought them home. As I am always hungry, I tried to peel one for a snack. I tugged at the top, squished at the bottom. The banana would not open.<br />
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Finally, I got a knife and sliced it. Rather than meeting squishy banana flesh, I found a rock solid interior. It was downright crunchy. One sniff told me it was astringent and decidedly not ripe.<br />
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Ok, I thought, that's fine. I'll wait a few days. Perhaps I bought a "green" bunch but couldn't tell because they're red. No sweat.<br />
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A few days went by- I tried again. No dice. The banana was still hard. (TWSS!)<br />
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So, I googled. According to a comment on <a href="http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/297244" target="_blank">Chow</a>, "They don't give strong visual cues, but they do get a little softer as
they ripen, and the skin will become more tender, yielding easily to
pressure from a thumbnail. Try one every day or so and you should
develop a sense of when they're ready." And <a href="http://www.melissas.com/Products/Products/Red-Bananas.aspx" target="_blank">Melissa's Produce</a> said pretty much the same thing. Apparently these beauties have a slight raspberry flavor, although I'm pretty sure I will never taste it.<br />
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It's been a week now of watching and waiting- being tormented by their steely presence. They're mocking me, daring me to throw them away only to ripen in the trash.<br />
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I will not give in! They have become more than a banana to me- they are a challenge! My personal science experiment.<br />
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And they will sit on my counter until they ripen and I get to try their sweet glory or they are ambushed by fruit flies.<br />
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Whichever comes first. BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-79730911489938892052012-08-20T18:33:00.004-07:002012-08-23T06:49:34.662-07:00Scenes from a weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-69522852404113423382012-08-16T17:11:00.004-07:002012-08-23T06:50:20.058-07:00Comfort food<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7WBzYfi-vbUmgM3xbjaEJbJjjtF3hyphenhyphenqd6Gze1CY-P8AWdA4vECTsxnkkmfRlFgVd7_T0LzT5SJca6JxGDVAMOliauB3sNnnbZud_BXDEww3Uoqj1R2g7gpF2EVGzK2bC1yKvb6K-EEh9/s1600/DSCN0827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7WBzYfi-vbUmgM3xbjaEJbJjjtF3hyphenhyphenqd6Gze1CY-P8AWdA4vECTsxnkkmfRlFgVd7_T0LzT5SJca6JxGDVAMOliauB3sNnnbZud_BXDEww3Uoqj1R2g7gpF2EVGzK2bC1yKvb6K-EEh9/s320/DSCN0827.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 14, 2012</td></tr>
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It's hard to remember now that Sam wasn't always the happy kid he is now. And even harder to remember that Nick and I weren't always as content as we are today. Pretty much from week 28 of my pregnancy (when Sam was mis-diagnosed with brain abnormalities-boo to overreacting doctors) to the day he was born (a month early) until he was almost 10 weeks old, there were lots of tears in this household. From all of us.<br />
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After he was born, there were breastfeeding issues, his acid reflux, sleep deprivation, and post-partum depression. I was
a mess. I remember looking at Nick one night after Sam had finally drifted off to sleep on my chest and saying I felt like
a shell of my former self. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinVd8EwgYyWTZCX5Mg3vOBryzMUJzsMnH_zxvLsKhQarW7yVsNFwE-paXlEy4g8wA0mB01y78D_txXmkAnhQ516bJ0vnGz9nHjd6MYG-gLVyE8yvefVzNrsLkPL75MALmCUSFluBuTiNjQ/s1600/DSC09934.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinVd8EwgYyWTZCX5Mg3vOBryzMUJzsMnH_zxvLsKhQarW7yVsNFwE-paXlEy4g8wA0mB01y78D_txXmkAnhQ516bJ0vnGz9nHjd6MYG-gLVyE8yvefVzNrsLkPL75MALmCUSFluBuTiNjQ/s320/DSC09934.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">April 9, 2012</td></tr>
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I was so sad. The overwhelming joy I felt when I held Sam for the first time had faded into a fog. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">April 16, 2012</td></tr>
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I'm grateful that I had Nick to rely on to feed me and comfort me during those days. There were many nights that he came home from work to find me in the rocking chair trying desperately to soothe our fussy baby while the white noise machine blared crashing waves and seagulls crying. Dark days, my friends, dark days. Knowing that a hot meal was waiting for me made the endless <a href="http://www.happiestbaby.com/" target="_blank">shushing </a>bearable. <br />
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Though I learned a lot during the first three months of my life as a mom, I'll focus on the most edible. My husband can really cook.<br />
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Pasta with peas, eggs, and cheese.</div>
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Grilled steak and onions with olives and sun-dried tomatoes.</div>
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Portuguese fish stew with mussels, clams, shrimp, and King crab legs. Fun fact- I'm allergic to crab. Found this out after devouring more than half of this bowl. Itchy palms=run to CVS for benadryl </div>
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Farewell, my spiny friend.</div>
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Nick also made some stellar stuffed mussels with spinach that are unpictured because we ate them too quickly. I *heart* muscles. </div>
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I'm lucky that my issues weren't anything that Lexapro and good food couldn't cure. To all new moms and dads out there- be kind to yourselves. </div>
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BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-2138036412191304182012-08-15T06:44:00.000-07:002012-08-23T06:51:26.112-07:00Roasted Garlic Onion Pizza<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ever noticed that the audience on the Rachael Ray show always claps for cheese during her cooking segment? Doesn't matter if it's mozzarella, Parmesan reggiano, Romano, cheddar...they clap like they're watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade for all kinds of dairy goodness. </div>
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I've always found that a bit strange- does cheese really require applause? Does Rachael need their unconditional support as she grinds, grates, slices, and smothers? </div>
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Well...I was wrong. Cheese deserves praises. Especially when it's on top of this pizza. </div>
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So take a deep breath. Sit down. Relax. </div>
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Maybe even grab a napkin. </div>
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'Cause you're about to drool.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-VBkLgUVCktOtKkJB2k_U5NserRPEtwR5_udsYHZ9gTcDvChPq2Pf2p9Tc1Dm6ueRwDPkEOcotrS5jwxLLtzdqHfvD1c4TLEzUdl8bw9sMLEaQD82H2pFqVEEp2LCXec745gdg-BSQ-Gw/s1600/DSCN0811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-VBkLgUVCktOtKkJB2k_U5NserRPEtwR5_udsYHZ9gTcDvChPq2Pf2p9Tc1Dm6ueRwDPkEOcotrS5jwxLLtzdqHfvD1c4TLEzUdl8bw9sMLEaQD82H2pFqVEEp2LCXec745gdg-BSQ-Gw/s320/DSCN0811.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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LEGEND...wait for it....DAIRY!</div>
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The secret to this pizza comes in a jar and it's not your mama's marinara.</div>
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<a href="http://www.stonewallkitchen.com/shop/speciality-foods/jams-jellies-butters/jams/Roasted_Garlic_Onion_Jam.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.stonewallkitchen.com/shop/speciality-foods/jams-jellies-butters/jams/Roasted_Garlic_Onion_Jam.html" target="_blank">Hello, lover.</a></div>
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Here's a loose recipe to follow if you want to recreate this masterpiece in your own kitchen. </div>
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<u><b>Roasted Garlic Onion Pizza</b></u></div>
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1 premade pizza dough- I used whole wheat dough from <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1372610102">Portland Pie Co.</a><u><b> </b></u> (found at <a href="http://www.hannaford.com/" target="_blank">Hannaford</a>'s)<u><b></b></u></div>
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~1/4 cup Roasted Garlic Onion Jam</div>
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6 1/4 inch slices of fresh mozzarella</div>
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~1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese</div>
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olive oil</div>
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cornmeal</div>
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Take dough out of refrigerator about a half hour before you plan to stretch it. This makes it so much easier to work with. </div>
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Preheat the oven to 475.</div>
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Dust your baking sheet with a few tablespoons of cornmeal. You want enough to cover the entire surface with a thin layer. This prevents the pizza from sticking and provides some lovely texture. If you have a pizza stone, you can skip this step. I don't, so I just use my gnarliest baking
sheet that I've had since college.</div>
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Stretch the dough into a rectangle. </div>
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Spread the jam in a thin layer over the dough, leaving a half inch border. Make sure the surface is evenly coated.</div>
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Layer on the mozzarella. It won't cover the whole pizza, but it will melt and ooze over the pie while it bakes.</div>
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Sprinkle the Parmesan over the mozzarella. </div>
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Drizzle a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over the pizza- make sure to put a bit on the crust. You could use a pastry brush and gently paint the oil onto the crust, but who has time for that nonsense?</div>
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Bake for 12-15 minutes.</div>
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Gaze at it's glory. Let it cool, lest you be scorched by molten cheese.</div>
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Devour.</div>
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Serve alongside a spinach salad to maintain your virtue. </div>
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BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-77730307948286712432012-08-14T05:00:00.000-07:002012-08-23T06:52:07.276-07:00Beach day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few weeks ago we headed up to Gloucester for the day. It's such a quaint beach town, perfect for a hot summer day. </div>
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Sam's not a huge fan of his carseat these days, probably because it gets so dang hot. What is it about carseats that makes them baby ovens?? We have a Chicco KeyFit30 and Sam comes out of it sweaty every time. Maybe it'll keep him warm in the winter? Anyway, due to Sam's transportation preferences, I wore him in the Ergo all day. He stayed comfy and happy and I ended the day with a baby-shaped sweat stain on the front of my dress. And no, there are no pictures of that. It was gross. </div>
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We got there around 11 and decided to have an early lunch at the <a href="http://www.capeannbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Cape Ann Brewery</a>. </div>
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A honey pilsner & a lobster roll for Nick and a pale ale & a giant bowl of clams for me. No pictures of the food because it was housed. Seafood=summer.<br />
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After lunch we wandered around the town center. Stopped in a few antique shops and toy stores. Cannot wait to buy so many toys for <strike>me</strike> Sam to play with!</div>
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A pit stop at <a href="http://www.capeannoliveoil.com/" target="_blank">Cape Ann Olive Oil Co. </a>netted us a bottle of Chipotle olive oil. So flavorful and a nice finishing touch on any Mexican dish. I sampled entirely too much oil and vinegar and left SO thirsty- the espresso balsamic vinegar was surprisingly drinkable. Would've bought a bottle, but how exactly does one use espresso vinegar? I can only eat so many salads. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1aTWd42gEzeKyWxUTlDcXG9AYjTWo1IrUFDC9yS40KUgiPkEDWXJLp4fAA9wQIIpjV1Sgk1TYgowu36KoiW2xmhRt_bcyOTAxTaxNAkhpsfdKEsc-emQfiM9ml4LesHOnbPz00rpPG8tx/s1600/DSCN0684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1aTWd42gEzeKyWxUTlDcXG9AYjTWo1IrUFDC9yS40KUgiPkEDWXJLp4fAA9wQIIpjV1Sgk1TYgowu36KoiW2xmhRt_bcyOTAxTaxNAkhpsfdKEsc-emQfiM9ml4LesHOnbPz00rpPG8tx/s320/DSCN0684.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Last stop was <a href="http://www.hammondcastle.org/common/index.php?com=HAMM&div=AA&nav=AA&page=A91" target="_blank">Hammond Castle</a>. This modern medieval castle is a gem. "The Father of the Remote Control" John Hays Hammond Jr. built this for his wife as a wedding present. Pretty sure I just got a pair of earrings from my husband to be...nice ones, but still...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't be jealous of my awesome floppy hat. </td></tr>
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The castle sits right on the water's edge with pristine views of the Atlantic.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to burp. </td></tr>
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Sam got a great view of all the interesting ceilings at the castle, as he required a bottle while we were there. Nick and I traded off carrying Sam and feeding him at the same time. I'm getting some amazing triceps caring for this kid.<br />
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Our first full day out with the wee one went quite well- no true meltdowns from any of us. High five, family!<br />
<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-81425092537848067532012-08-13T09:27:00.001-07:002012-08-13T09:27:17.061-07:00Broccoli Cheese Breakfast Casserole<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love hot breakfast. Whether it's oatmeal or pancakes, I like something warm first thing in the morning. Bake ahead breakfast casseroles have been my go-to breakfast item for years. I'd made a 9x13 pan on Sunday night and Nick and I would split it throughout the week. <br />
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Now with Sam on the scene, having a quick breakfast is more of a need than a want. I jokingly refer to Sam as "the warden" and let me tell you, he runs a tight ship. He demands several square meals a day and doesn't take kindly to waiting. <br />
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He was nice enough to help me make this week's casserole, even got his hands a little dirty in the process.<br />
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I use this basic <a href="http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2006/01/breakfast-casserole-many-wayswho-knew.html" target="_blank">recipe </a>as a jumping off point and generally add ham, cheese, and broccoli. So good and filling!<br />
<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-78774973795876348552012-07-24T19:16:00.000-07:002012-07-24T19:16:20.982-07:00The green grass grows all around<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Even though Sam is only 3 months old, I decided it was time that he get used to the great outdoors. His first camping trip is scheduled for August! Here's hoping he likes dirt and decides to sleep through the night- God bless the other campers, in advance, for putting up with a noisy baby. <br />
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Sam oversaw my weeding efforts and Gilligan helped clean up the weeds by throwing them around the yard.<br />
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Our poor, neglected garden. Between the heat and the infant, it's hard a rough go this summer. <br />
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Sam worked on his core strength while Gilligan gazed longingly at all the flowers he wanted to trample. His on backyard probation since he ripped Nick's thriving grapevine out of the ground. Naughty doggie. <br />
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I was clearly more amused than Sam by our backyard adventures. <br />
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Found out, rather quickly, that someone is not amused by the hose. So we sat on it instead. Take that, hose!<br />
<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-79838003671448259252012-07-23T06:13:00.005-07:002012-07-23T06:14:05.416-07:00Happy belated birthday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy birthday to me!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And Nana!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And Uncle Matt!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Make a wish!</td></tr>
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-32896675790801824762012-07-23T06:01:00.002-07:002012-07-23T06:01:42.488-07:00Fiscally frisky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What a difference three weeks makes! I went back to work on July 2. I gave my notice on July 9 and Friday, July 20 was my last day! Craziness. I'm so grateful that I get to spend this time at home with Sam. And now it's especially important to me to keep costs down now that I'm not bringing in the big bucks. I'll do the usual cost savers- walking instead of driving, more library books, turning off the A/C when it's not super hot, etc. </div>
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I'll also use nap time to do some planning...</div>
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And couponing! I tried to get into coupons a few years ago and just didn't have the patience for it. But now it's kind of a like a game for me- how much money can I save? The trick for me is to only use coupons for things we really need. It's easy to find a deal on random items and think, "score! a direct hit!" but if it's something we never use (air freshener? kitty litter? doritos??) then I gotta show some self control and move along. </div>
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This week I found two coupons for cereal- each for $1 off 2 boxes of General Mills cereals. I combined the coupon with a deal at Star Market that gave $6 off 4 boxes of General Mills cereals. Total cost for 1 giant box of Cheerios, 2 boxes of Wheat Chex, and 1 box of Peanut Butter Cheerios (a girl has to have some fun!)= $16. 47. Price paid= $8.47. Love! While we don't normally eat a ton of cereal, my sister and niece are coming up next week and I hear wee ones with teeth love Cheerios. So excited to see them!!<br />
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I also had a coupon for formula. Despite my best efforts, I wasn't able to convince them to give me the best deal, but I still saved $5 on 2 cans. And I got to annoy all the other people in the express line while I sent the assistant manager to double check the price! Sorry, folks. <br />
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So while I'll try my best to stick to my budget, it's so important to me to keep Sam in good food. He is chomping at the bit to get after some solids! Last night at dinner he was royally ticked off that we were all eating and he wasn't, despite having just had a bottle. </div>
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I plan to make most of his food and I've got <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Led-Weaning-Essential-Introducing-Confident/dp/161519021X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343048188&sr=8-1&keywords=baby+led+weaning" target="_blank">Baby Led Weaning </a>on hold at the library. He's just now starting to develop his fine motor skills and I can't think of a better way for him to practice than by squishing some food in his chubby little hands. </div>
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<br />Plus, he already likes carrots! <br />
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-15554244925243676942012-05-02T08:09:00.001-07:002012-05-02T08:09:54.702-07:00Buffalo Chicken Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Time is a precious commodity these days. Dinner this week was prepped
while wearing my three week old son in his Ergo carrier. I managed to get <a href="http://bettycupcakes.blogspot.com/2010/04/salsa-chicken-sweet-sour-peppers.html" target="_blank">Salsa Chicken</a> done for Monday night and then got started on <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2012/04/crock-pot-buffalo-chicken-lettuce-wraps.html" target="_blank">Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken. </a></div>
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These are both great recipes for anyone who is strapped for time- minimal ingredients and practically no hands on time means that dinner is ready before 9 pm. Heck, you might even get to eat it with two hands if you're lucky (and the baby is asleep). </div>
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The original recipe called for lettuce wraps, but I figured salads were an easy one-handed option. </div>
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The night before, I defrosted chicken in the crock pot insert with chopped onion and chicken broth. Love Crock Pots with removable inserts. Makes it so much easier to get a head start when you don't have to refrigerate your entire Crock Pot. Who has room for that in their fridge??</div>
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Cooked on high for 4 hours.<br />
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Then shred your chicken into small pieces using two forks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHrPF7Fs5BAxvb57REo_t6URYSEDQthu-TM61Ix6glGxxGLoSblHmnesQWstDGgD0fr4bMhPUVn52FAuTKjFeP5vGZFzQIztX6RJA7_GFdDykywQBEhDu1GmrWNkLvQjnFvTsLV0Cl02X/s1600/DSCN0151.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHrPF7Fs5BAxvb57REo_t6URYSEDQthu-TM61Ix6glGxxGLoSblHmnesQWstDGgD0fr4bMhPUVn52FAuTKjFeP5vGZFzQIztX6RJA7_GFdDykywQBEhDu1GmrWNkLvQjnFvTsLV0Cl02X/s320/DSCN0151.JPG" width="240" /></a> </div>
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Bust out the Buffalo sauce and douse the chicken liberally. I used 3/4 cup, but feel free to adjust to your own taste.<br />
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Stir it together and cook on low for another 30 minutes.<br />
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Pile it high on chopped romaine and top with other veggies and cheese of your choice. The feta in this picture is a bit misleading- it was...shall we say...funky, so it was actually removed before consumption. Mommy brain fart- pretty sure that feta was months+ old. Oops. <br />
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Enjoy! This turned out to be a super healthy and hearty meal. This chicken would also be phenomenal on a pizza, in a pita, or even added to an omelet. The possibilities are endless if you love Buffalo sauce!BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-39434736391741194682012-04-28T06:00:00.000-07:002012-04-28T06:00:04.556-07:00Food from friendsSince we brought Sam home, we've been inundated with delicious food. Honeybaked ham and turkey breast from Nick's work, homemade sauce from my father in law and good friend, delicious casserole and fruit salad from a friend, bacon pasta and chocolate covered strawberries from Nick's aunt. We even got a Panera gift card from friends- a virtual casserole dish, indeed!<br />
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We've been spoiled, but I'm ready to start getting back in the kitchen. Even though I'm not getting a lot of sleep, I've been trying hard to maintain some sense of normalcy. The house is (mostly) dog-hair free due to frequent vacuuming and I do at least one load of laundry a day.<br />
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Today my mother in law discovered that Sam loves his swing so I foresee some more time to get into the kitchen.<br />
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Here are some recipes I can't wait to try...<br />
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<a href="http://www.keepitsimplefoods.com/vegetarian/veggie-pot-pie-with-black-pepper-biscuits/" target="_blank">Veggie Pot Pie with Black Pepper Biscuits</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.eatliverun.com/whole-grain-strawberry-pop-tart-scones/#more-22902" target="_blank">Whole Grain Strawberry Pop Tart Scones</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2012/04/crock-pot-buffalo-chicken-lettuce-wraps.html" target="_blank">Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps</a><br />
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And maybe a few from one of new cookbooks, Giada De Laurentiis's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Everyday-Pasta-Giada-De-Laurentiis/dp/0307346587/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1335569949&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Everyday Pasta</a>. <br />
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To get myself back into the cooking spirit, I've been reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crunch-Time-Novel-Suspense-Schulz/dp/B006QS016S/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1335569982&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Crunch Time</a> by Diane Mott Davidson. I love these books- nothing like a caterer/sleuth to keep this cook entertained!<br />
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<br />BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-10175069365997728342012-04-27T16:28:00.001-07:002012-08-23T06:52:39.122-07:00Remember that time...When our son came 4 weeks early?<br />
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Samuel came to see us April 9 at 8:35 am. He weighed in at 6 lbs. 11 oz.- not too bad for a month early! He was in perfect shape- didn't need oxygen or time in the nursery at all. Guess he was just done cooking.<br />
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I think I can say with certainty that he is the best thing I've ever baked.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRp5yy76G4BhbvnRTcHnSNC9N34ybDlowDT7_WSvqfdSguVIAunWcZpPOcZKK8EkLNhpUshRywu7JSCzk8wUPHGUW3AhRL-ItriPbpH8tQhz3XwIVKh9pKniLMhRBcF7ufINEvbWhZE7S/s1600/DSCN0096.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRp5yy76G4BhbvnRTcHnSNC9N34ybDlowDT7_WSvqfdSguVIAunWcZpPOcZKK8EkLNhpUshRywu7JSCzk8wUPHGUW3AhRL-ItriPbpH8tQhz3XwIVKh9pKniLMhRBcF7ufINEvbWhZE7S/s320/DSCN0096.JPG" width="320" /></a>BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-50525238401804156382012-02-23T05:06:00.000-08:002012-02-23T11:54:03.880-08:00The Baby RodeoI spent the beginning of February visiting my family in Texas. While my trips home are always special (mostly because they're so rare), this one had a special twist!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZ3JQj1DqzIBMfjqDocTEZGy5_ti3pJD3stmZG-labxD5ZxaZU-oygMl8YCvbT2Mfs4uLW9Qp4w8gfmVvcuAXu3Opt3nhtUnMtlijNHHqcPQQiMWyPqAXw-kf0Em4JECQ6OeRDoX24i47/s1600/DSC09735.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZ3JQj1DqzIBMfjqDocTEZGy5_ti3pJD3stmZG-labxD5ZxaZU-oygMl8YCvbT2Mfs4uLW9Qp4w8gfmVvcuAXu3Opt3nhtUnMtlijNHHqcPQQiMWyPqAXw-kf0Em4JECQ6OeRDoX24i47/s320/DSC09735.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712417290396608498" border="0" /></a>A baby shower! (Surprise- his name is Samuel!)<br /><br />My mom and sister have been such a huge support to me throughout my entire pregnancy and they were sweet enough to throw me a cowboy-themed shower. Even though I've been in Massachusetts for the last decade (seriously, when did 10 years fly by?), I'm still a Texan at heart. I can't wait to teach my cowpoke all about his Lonestar roots!<br /><br />From the decorations to the cake, this shower was pure country.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiickPbI6UJ6GGzI_XJscmppXSycNq-MBIhqB0HLoBL5E5ZcjWqj3rBYSUVZjhAbUBr4Sjy8C0bN8x2YiN_MjEzflaKJI_XygqrWfs8atnFl1kie4PizudQP8tC5JShB0FxsYlPpEi2H7ik/s1600/DSC09754.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiickPbI6UJ6GGzI_XJscmppXSycNq-MBIhqB0HLoBL5E5ZcjWqj3rBYSUVZjhAbUBr4Sjy8C0bN8x2YiN_MjEzflaKJI_XygqrWfs8atnFl1kie4PizudQP8tC5JShB0FxsYlPpEi2H7ik/s320/DSC09754.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706938603453849986" border="0" /></a>Baby boots filled with bluebonnets! My mom's boss has saved her children's cowboy boots since they were small and she has quite the collection. For her son's graduation party, her sisters filled them with flowers to use as centerpieces. She was kind enough to loan us these adorable decorations.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFritO1qBLF3LhOoY0fjDYCJYixaVX0vrAJ8enYMC6G-R1QmKTHzWyUpdeZaSwLiwFLaeZZWlkQWd4vucXjDhcYekdJO2RhrlRx-y6dUxjrHaGOBd5zd6l1NIERhw-OEX16pQMzALyIk1l/s1600/DSC09737.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFritO1qBLF3LhOoY0fjDYCJYixaVX0vrAJ8enYMC6G-R1QmKTHzWyUpdeZaSwLiwFLaeZZWlkQWd4vucXjDhcYekdJO2RhrlRx-y6dUxjrHaGOBd5zd6l1NIERhw-OEX16pQMzALyIk1l/s320/DSC09737.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706936734563476898" border="0" /></a>Don't squat with your spurs on!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimioemB1AU5eNrCOITdfyIR2EA0NiVaikG_TXusjv52n_MtUAYIAdXF_np_r0nfEPqUey0aGjSFnrTixBl-jV61Hu8GbbOYdl8hrWD14fRYqfOwKlFfvmJC0HLW6eAKqFfq2MHRwl8leqs/s1600/DSC09736.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimioemB1AU5eNrCOITdfyIR2EA0NiVaikG_TXusjv52n_MtUAYIAdXF_np_r0nfEPqUey0aGjSFnrTixBl-jV61Hu8GbbOYdl8hrWD14fRYqfOwKlFfvmJC0HLW6eAKqFfq2MHRwl8leqs/s320/DSC09736.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706936725484214802" border="0" /></a>Everyone's favorite cartoon cowboy, Woody!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixa28NwYwKXSMHZVweWrSFqHMWSI0kfVV-jba894oGz3UhyphenhyphenxPXucknxuUmpBl69QPV2ZUjhcPMJbf5FcTeWkzzu3p25kBTX-4vdxVMDcXTwXTA3UEJ-_YVyknq3irirhB7oQGaxU0HgnhC/s1600/DSC09742.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixa28NwYwKXSMHZVweWrSFqHMWSI0kfVV-jba894oGz3UhyphenhyphenxPXucknxuUmpBl69QPV2ZUjhcPMJbf5FcTeWkzzu3p25kBTX-4vdxVMDcXTwXTA3UEJ-_YVyknq3irirhB7oQGaxU0HgnhC/s320/DSC09742.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706936761479193122" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRWbfgjS6VhTaUe1VmqsfGuuzTx6sB6Q_H7blftqkDokwn31IU6s2X4qaRy5colsHc7txZeeDeIB0zCpNfpOopvJ2jTQ_FoAmp5DVldT0T8qU-v9_hGxS-a0x4z8RcnhcFwsOJ3eWPJc9/s1600/DSC09739.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRWbfgjS6VhTaUe1VmqsfGuuzTx6sB6Q_H7blftqkDokwn31IU6s2X4qaRy5colsHc7txZeeDeIB0zCpNfpOopvJ2jTQ_FoAmp5DVldT0T8qU-v9_hGxS-a0x4z8RcnhcFwsOJ3eWPJc9/s320/DSC09739.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706936754536359474" border="0" /></a>I was blown away by the cake- this boot cake was the end-all, be-all of cakes. It was a monster- I'm guessing it was cut from at least a half-sheet cake. <a href="http://www.ajbakery.info/">A&J Bakery</a> on Oaklawn in Dallas made this yellow-cake and chocolate-frosted dream come true. I'm not ashamed to say I ate three pieces.<br /><br />Because it was a book shower, my friends and family generously gave us copies of their favorite children's books. Sam has quite the library now! We got the <a href="https://www.berenstainbears.com/">Berenstain Bears</a>, several<a href="http://www.sandraboynton.com/sboynton/index.html"> Sandra Boynton</a> classics, the full set of <a href="http://www.albertwhitman.com/content.cfm/the-boxcar-children">Boxcar Children</a> books, and so many more. I already read one of the <a href="http://www.hardyboysonline.net/content.php?page=home">Hardy Boys</a> books- quite an adventure! Everyone was so sweet explaining why they gave us each book- many were favorites of the shower guests or their children. I'm a huge book lover, so this was the perfect way to celebrate my sweet boy. <span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);" class=" down" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link"><img src="http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif" alt="Link" class="gl_link" border="0" /></span></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGvzXkSOgyq8YJvIGAFyVILg8rnbSmoHeJPM3-s7TyKbOIrG_vn5w60WO0KM-Fav9R0B-HwKl5qXnq1LSsDQR3Cny9f5vT9t3QlHiuyGLZgZfv8tQyRZDtH7QBMRRlTKkQJf4tX2ESdiw/s1600/DSC09749.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGvzXkSOgyq8YJvIGAFyVILg8rnbSmoHeJPM3-s7TyKbOIrG_vn5w60WO0KM-Fav9R0B-HwKl5qXnq1LSsDQR3Cny9f5vT9t3QlHiuyGLZgZfv8tQyRZDtH7QBMRRlTKkQJf4tX2ESdiw/s320/DSC09749.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706938571616457154" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCH25hs8V0QCvS4CcjVbP8BlsFd185gxdnVBnp8TI9vnz9fH20e9-HZ5ed1zOqrZVPP0rMORxtlGxt0XlSMqUBXXrUI2YpfS_j-Q7Soqp3W3HIBTLHxKK6AhxyFouZszAjJcGL1nLfrnBF/s1600/DSC09748.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCH25hs8V0QCvS4CcjVbP8BlsFd185gxdnVBnp8TI9vnz9fH20e9-HZ5ed1zOqrZVPP0rMORxtlGxt0XlSMqUBXXrUI2YpfS_j-Q7Soqp3W3HIBTLHxKK6AhxyFouZszAjJcGL1nLfrnBF/s320/DSC09748.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706938560193328866" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerRAPaOUmZcaVcuUknhbK6pGo3R2ZloFlJRWiHq0p0FW-SyY29DuR5YH0TuVLsvDRyrHNh7y3FHTbMlCGl47hEMs8xtXHOn5xELyQBTE82Q00IHR_jRe4PB5-LZ6pucwTDJdtm6p-QFwz/s1600/DSC09747.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerRAPaOUmZcaVcuUknhbK6pGo3R2ZloFlJRWiHq0p0FW-SyY29DuR5YH0TuVLsvDRyrHNh7y3FHTbMlCGl47hEMs8xtXHOn5xELyQBTE82Q00IHR_jRe4PB5-LZ6pucwTDJdtm6p-QFwz/s320/DSC09747.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706938539949698274" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUKCxlUxAQxcgrGwaVT9so9bEMr-sOmlxwKRmdOOmAdSg6Py4YiL0TIp4zy458v06SFvj7Caghn48fWTrqzmj_X0FhfnaPNN3LPiazqYanrSy-fj8hH-LVWBsB3lIShPcEye7j0kN2AJ_/s1600/DSC09745.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUKCxlUxAQxcgrGwaVT9so9bEMr-sOmlxwKRmdOOmAdSg6Py4YiL0TIp4zy458v06SFvj7Caghn48fWTrqzmj_X0FhfnaPNN3LPiazqYanrSy-fj8hH-LVWBsB3lIShPcEye7j0kN2AJ_/s320/DSC09745.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706938534467740786" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3BNOwNiz0CKjOmwcRy9ohfP892LlR1lhbjPRAEpx3pXa67Y6Ka5AGfTCJ8aFle3U2-Ks18vX_cjQcRMGS1OM7qxw3TM3O7j3tZLnrlEAwFL6MevJjx-cFBkS53TWVVffBiBULTtb44TcL/s1600/DSC09744.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3BNOwNiz0CKjOmwcRy9ohfP892LlR1lhbjPRAEpx3pXa67Y6Ka5AGfTCJ8aFle3U2-Ks18vX_cjQcRMGS1OM7qxw3TM3O7j3tZLnrlEAwFL6MevJjx-cFBkS53TWVVffBiBULTtb44TcL/s320/DSC09744.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706936775189185378" border="0" /></a>In true Betty-fashion, I completely forgot to take pictures of myself with any of my guests. I think my mom may have a few stashed on her camera.<br /><br />As much fun as I had swapping stories with my friends and family, the real star of the show woke up from her nap half way through.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7d7HH8xV1954eggQm3r3lncKjGi7bdn02cQ05VjeQB2uP_cmGoOfKP_0aAZr5dgWSPSiaTzsXHzr_xqMN9Et5ZVIq_obi-A3ajSKyo2ygD65mbdrk1mpu9MhONCpBJiLYlNhYwtfonhw/s1600/DSC09751.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7d7HH8xV1954eggQm3r3lncKjGi7bdn02cQ05VjeQB2uP_cmGoOfKP_0aAZr5dgWSPSiaTzsXHzr_xqMN9Et5ZVIq_obi-A3ajSKyo2ygD65mbdrk1mpu9MhONCpBJiLYlNhYwtfonhw/s320/DSC09751.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706940493394960322" border="0" /></a>Isabella is going to be the best cousin ever!BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7796030341697045611.post-89659196192132524152012-02-02T03:01:00.000-08:002012-02-02T07:05:33.753-08:00LullabiesI've been composing a list in my head for years. It's a list of lullabies that I want to remember to sing my child. It's grown with songs remembered from movies, moments in my life, and the radio. <div><br /></div><div>I cannot wait to rock my son some late night this summer and whisper these words in his ear.<br /><br />Combing through my iTunes account pulled these songs into the playlist that will hopefully soothe a sad face and inspire a giggle or two.<br /><br />Baby Mine by Bette Midler<br />A Wink and a Smile by Harry Connick, Jr.<br />Hearts and Bones by Paul Simon<br />You and I by Ingrid Michaelson<br />Let Him Fly by the Dixie Chicks<br />The Luckiest by Ben Folds<br />The House That Built Me by Miranda Lambert<br />Just the Way You Are by Billy Joel<br />Sweet Baby James by James Taylor<br />This Guy's In Love With You by Harry Connick, Jr.<br />Help Me by Joni Mitchell<br />The Heart of Life by John Mayer<br />Elderly Woman Behind the Counter by Pearl Jam<br />Lover Lay Down by Dave Matthews Band<br />All At Sea by Jamie Cullum<br />Sing by Kristin Chenoweth<br />Deeper than the Holler by Randy Travis<br />Power of Two by the Indigo Girls<br />Stardust by Nat King Cole<br />Selah by Lauryn Hill<br />More than Anyone by Gavin DeGraw<br />Annie's Song by John Denver<br />I'll Have to Say I Love You by Jim Croce<br />Better Together by Jack Johnson<br />Smile (Charlie Chaplin) by Glee Cast<br />River by Joni Mitchell<br />Fire and Rain by James Taylor<br />Tupelo Honey by Van Morrison<br />Little Houses by Doug Stone<br />I Just Called to Say I Love You by Stevie Wonder<br />When I Fall In Love by Celine Dion<br />Times Like These by Jack Johnson<br />Time in a Bottle by Jim Croce<br />20 Years by The Civil Wars<br />Let Nothing Separate Us by Arthur Conley<br />Hush, Hush, Hush by Paula Cole<br />Danny's Song by Loggins and Messina<br />Gracie by Ben Folds<br />The Nearness of You by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong<br />In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning by Carly Simon<br />Can't Take My Eyes Off of You by Damien Rice<br />Just to See You Smile by Tim McGraw<br />When Somebody Loves You by Sarah McLachlan<br />Bye Bye Blackbird by Joe Cocker<br />Mother Nature's Son by Sheryl Crow<br />Blackbird by Sarah McLachlan<br />The Glory of Love by Keb' Mo<br />In My Life by the Beatles<br />When the Stars Go Blue by Tyler Hilton and Bethany Joy Lenz<br />Sunrise by Norah Jones<br />Banana Pancakes by Jack Johnson<br />Moonlight Serenade by Frank Sinatra<br /><br />I'd love suggestions for other songs to add- I want him to be surrounded by music.<br /><br /></div>BettyCupcakeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01781879250003036157noreply@blogger.com4