Hello Lorie

Best Reasons to Own Cooking Books

2011-09-27T05:07:00.000-06:00

I found this article on O.co (a.k.a. Overstock.com). I like to find each and every way to justify my vast collection of cooking books. I have two cooking passions, no make that ~~three~~ four.
1. Collecting (That sounds better than buying.)
2. Reading
3. Cooking
4. Eating
Each equally pleasurable.

Best Reasons to Own Cooking Books

With the rise of cooking culture on the Internet, people seem to be forgetting why cooking books are so valuable. While it's convenient to be able to look up recipes online, cooking books are still the choice of serious chefs and bakers everywhere. Cooking books provide an enormous amount of irreplaceable benefits in the kitchen. If you're considering purchasing one, look at the article below to learn the best reasons to own cooking books.

Owning Cooking Books:

Have them where you want them: One of the biggest conveniences of cookbooks is that they can be placed near your cooking area and remain there. When it comes time to get cooking, you won't have to run back and forth to look for recipes or measurements. Having a cooking book on hand while you mix and measure ingredients will help you increase the quality of the food you prepare, and it will also help decrease stress in the kitchen.
Make your mark: Cooking books are terrific because they allow you to mark them up. Try a recipe and think something could be added next time? Write yourself a reminder in the margin. Find that a recipe doesn't work well at your altitude? Alter the instructions with a pen to make sure you get it right on your second try.
An issue of trust: With cooking books, it's possible to find recipes from chefs you trust. Instead of having to rely on undependable sources, you can look for volumes of recipes and cooking tips from renowned experts in the field. From celebrity chefs to classic cooks, it's easy to find cookbooks from trusted names.
Getting to know you: Another worthwhile element of cooking books is the chance you have to get to know them. As time passes and you try more and more recipes from your cooking book, you'll be able to get a feel for how the book works for your style of cooking and you'll be able to use the knowledge to improve the recipes to your liking.

http://www.overstock.com/guides/best-reasons-to-own-cooking-books

Here is my latest favorite. Our Best Bites. Great recipes. Great pictures. Great taste.

I am a Droid

2011-04-02T05:40:00.000-06:00

Helloooooooooooooo - I'm Back!!

2011-02-08T21:28:00.003-07:00

Fresh corn on the grill.

I love to use the outdoor grill year round- yes even in a blizzard. However, I cannot find fresh delicious sweet corn this time of year. Looking through some of my pic's I found this one I took last year and simply forgot to blog about it.
The Recipe:
Shuck fresh corn.
Put in plastic bag and sprinkle with EVOO
(extra virgin olive oil) enough to lightly cover each kernel.
Put on a hot grill - grill for 6 minutes each side.
Season with favorite seasonings. ie: salt , pepper, Johnnys seasoning, Mrs. Dash. etc...

                             Wrap in foil for 10 - 15 minutes. Eat.

Grilled Corn in Foil

Food Photography Workshop

2010-07-12T18:06:00.002-06:00

Last Saturday I was able to attend a Food Photography Workshop taught by Quinn Curtis.

She is Utah's premiere culinary photographer who captures the essence of food and

her photo's are lick-a-licious.

I am so excited that I get to attend a couple other of her classes about color,

composition and natural lighting.

Did you know people and food photograph differently?

Well, they do.

I am hoping my food photography gets better with each image.

I also hope I remember to take photos before I eat the food.

Check out her website and join me for a class:

LimeLightFoodPhotography.com

Blog-o-licious - Banana Bread

2010-03-18T15:28:00.003-06:00

Yes, it is true. My life revolves around food. Dinner time is a sacred ritual at our house. I love those I love gathered around my table to break bread with me.
I don't eat to live - I live to eat. I take cookbooks to bed with me to read. I love to look at food pictures. In my next life I know I will be a famous chef or the next Martha Stewart. Until then here is my favorite recipe for banana bread.

Banana Bread
Makes 3 - 8X4 inch pans

1 cup butter
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
3 cups very ripe bananas - about 6
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon soda
4 cups flour

1 cup chopped nuts - optional

Cream butter and sugar.
Add the bananas. Mix very well so the bananas get mashed.
Add the eggs. Mix well.
Stir in salt and soda.
Add flour. Stir well without over mixing.
Pour into prepared pans (buttered or sprayed with PAM)

Let sit for 20 minutes on counter top. (I have no idea what this does but it makes a difference.)

Bake in preheated 350° oven on center rack for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Check with toothpick to see if done. This means stick a toothpick in the center on one loaf - pull it out - if it is clean it is done. If there is dough on it cook it longer.

Take out of oven and let cool 10 minutes on cooling rack. Remove from pans.
Contain yourself from devouring until cool.

After completely cool - store in food grade plastic bag.

These loaves freeze well- if they last that long!

Check out my new web site!

2010-03-05T10:27:00.002-07:00

The spousal unit and I have been busy launching a new web site --

www.howtomakehomemadebread.com

I have had many requests for my Everyday Bread recipe, I want to share but I also want to make sure it is made with proper techniques. I have been teaching classes and now we are going live (sort of) on the internet.

It has been so much fun - even as we speak I am developing a recipe for sandwich rolls.
I will let you know of the outcome. So far the dough feels fan-freakin-tastic!

The web site will be featuring videos showing technique as well as delicious recipes.

We have been shooting episodes and soon it will be available to view online.
I have some great testimonials from students - see if you recognize anyone!

If you have any requests please let me know. Happy bread making!

Remember-
Bread making is an art.
Practice makes progress.
Progress makes mastery!

Blog-o-licious 2nd Audition for Dinnner Rolls

2009-11-10T15:28:00.005-07:00

So far this recipe is coming in first - it takes a little longer in raising time - but worth the effort.
Mally said she had one today in Seminary and it was delicious! Spousal Unit said he couldn't tell the difference between the rolls.
I make this in my Kitchen Aid

Dinner Rolls
Start with paddle.

In bowl add:
1 TBS yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
in 1/2 cup warm water for 10 minutes

Barely simmer 1 cup milk ( I use the microwave)
Add: 1 cube butter cut up

Add :
½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt

When cooled add to yeast mixture.

Gradually add
3 beaten eggs
3 cups flour, until batter is very sticky

Mix for five minutes to develop the gluten.

Change the paddle to the dough hook.

Gradually add about 3 + cups flour until dough is very soft. Mix well . This is about 3 minutes. The dough looks silky and smooth.

Cover with towel and let raise 1 ½ hours.

Punch down. Let rest for 5 minutes.
Shape into rolls, dip in melted butter on cookie sheet.

Cover with a towel and let raise 1 ½ hours.

Bake at 375̊ for 11 minutes.

This makes 24 nice size rolls. I put them on a cookie sheet 4 x 6.

Blog-o-licious - Dinner Roll Auditions

2009-10-07T12:47:00.003-06:00

I have been teaching bread making classes to my ward and other people in the neighborhood.
The request for the upcoming holidays are Dinner Rolls.
I am auditioning recipes. My first recipe I got from my sister a long time ago.. It is quite delicious and fast.

As with any bread recipe developing the gluten is key. Developing gluten is done by kneading the dough - by hand or by mixer, until it is silky and smooth. You can purchase gluten to add to the dough- but it is NOT necessary - let me repeat that - NOT necessary.

Rolls

Mix: 1 3/4 cup warm water
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup oil
3 Tablespoons yeast
Cover and let sit for 15 minutes.
Add:
1/2 Tablespoon salt ( 1 1/2 teaspoons)
2 eggs - lightly beaten
5 cups flour - white or whole wheat (mixed)

Add flour 1/2 cup at a time - make a batter - beat until smooth. Gradually add the rest of the flour making a soft dough.

Shape into rolls. Put onto jelly-roll pan that has been sprayed with PAM.

Raise 20 - 45 mintutes.

Bake 375° for 15 minutes.

These take about an hour and a half to two hours. I made a dozen large rolls and some yummy cinnamon rolls.

Speaking of Cinnamon Rolls - here is recipe for really really really yummy, can't- stop -eating Cream Cheese Frosting.

Beat 8 oz. cold cream cheese (not rock solid, but it means you can use it straight out of the refrigerator) with 5 Tbsp. softened butter and 2 tsp. vanilla until combined.

Gradually add 2 c. powdered sugar that has been sifted after measuring.
Continue to add more sifted powdered sugar until you reach a consistency and sweetness that fits your taste.

No softening the cream cheese (though you do have to plan ahead with the butter). No whipping to a certain point that occurs for all of ten seconds before it's ruined. The hardest part is not eating the frosting straight from the bowl by the spoonful.

Bread Making 101

2009-10-07T12:45:00.001-06:00

Check out my bread making site - a work in progress - for my bread I make on a weekly basis.
www.thebreadsnob.blogspot.com

Blog-o-licious Favorite Chili

2009-10-02T16:25:00.001-06:00

When the temperature plummets 40 degrees in 24 hours here in Utah it is time to pull out a favorite recipe that will take the chill away. (Especially when the furnace and fireplace are still on summer vacation.!)

Auntie L’s Favorite Chili

Soak 3 cups dry red beans in 6 cups water overnight.
Drain.
Add fresh water to cover beans and cook 1 ½ hours.
Drain.
Add:
1 16 oz. can tomato sauce
1 16 oz. can stewed tomatoes
1 ½ cup ketchup
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 cup each coarsely chopped; celery, onion, green pepper, red pepper
1 small bay leaf
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 ½ tsp. salt
2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons cumin
1 ½ teaspoon dry mustard
1 lb. Hamburger - cooked and drained

Simmer for 1 - 2 hours.

Miles

2009-08-13T10:58:00.001-06:00

Here is Miles, my cute little-ish newest Grand-Nephew. Entering the world at almost 11 lbs., he is a delight to his favorite Auntie L.

My Sister - need I say more

2009-08-13T10:46:00.000-06:00

Aunt Lucele Has a 90th Birthday Party

2009-07-27T10:13:00.002-06:00

Aunt Lucele and her kid-lets. Aunt Lucele and siblings and neice Ronda.

Blog-O- Licious Creamy Cucumber and Dill Sauce

2009-05-28T11:26:00.004-06:00

This is one of the best meals we had in Hawaii.

Creamy Cucumber and Dill Sauce

1/2 c. shredded cucumber, no peel or seeds
1/4 c. sour cream or yogurt (fat-free)
1/4 c. mayonnaise (light)
1/2 Tbsp. minced parsley
1/2 Tbsp. dill weed
dash salt to taste
Splash of lemon juice
Pepper to taste

Mix and chill.

My favorite way to fix salmon:
Put salmon on tin foil large enough to make a pocket.
Squeeze lemon juice and/or orange juice liberally over salmon.
Sprinkle "Johnny's Seasoning" on top.
Tightly wrap so salmon will poach.
Put on preheated grill and cook until 'fleshy' look is gone.
Do not overcook.

Serve with Creamy Cucumber Dill Sauce, seasonal flowers and grilled veggies.

Remembering........................................

2009-05-25T16:17:00.001-06:00

Veteran's Markers

2009-05-25T16:16:00.000-06:00

Branches of the Military Flags

2009-05-25T16:14:00.000-06:00

BYU ROTC Gun Drill Team

2009-05-25T16:13:00.000-06:00

United States Army Flag

2009-05-25T16:12:00.001-06:00

My dad served in the Army in WWII in Korea.

Changing of the Flags

2009-05-25T16:10:00.001-06:00

We celebrated Memorial Day by attending the annual Orem City Cemetery
Memorial Day Program. It is filled with music, changing of the flags, Veterans, sometimes a military helicopter (not this year), military service men and women, a speaker and an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for those who have served and those who serve our wonderful country.

Happy Birthday to my Daddy

2009-05-24T22:04:00.007-06:00

My mom used to make an out-of-this-world Strawberry Pie. Yearly on this date or around it, I try to do the same.
I made a version of the pie : crustless pie , or vanilla custard with strawberry topping, or not as many calories pie , or whatever you want to call it.
Anywhoo , here is the original recipe.

Strawberry Pie with Creamy Satin Filling

1/2 cup sugar................................. 2 cups milk
3 TBS cornstarch ......................... 1 slightly beaten egg
3 TBS flour ....................................1/2 teaspoon vanilla
(clear is good)
1/2 teaspoon salt.......................... 1/2 cup whipping cream , whipped

Combine sugar, cornstarch, flour and salt. Gradually stir in milk. Cook and stir until thick. Stir a little of the hot mixture into egg. Return to remaining hot mixture. Bring to boil stirring constantly. Cool, then chill. Beat well and fold in whipped cream and vanilla.
Pour over baked crust.

Glaze
1/2 cup strawberries .................................... 1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup water................................................. 2 tsp. cornstarch
2 drops food coloring
Crush strawberries. Add water - cook two minutes. Sieve. Mix sugar and cornstarch. Gradually stir in berry juice. Cook and stir till thick and clear. Tint red. Cool slightly, pour on arranged strawberries that are on the pie filling.(approx. 3 cups)
Refrigerate and enjoy.

Joys of Motherhood

2009-05-10T22:24:00.004-06:00

1. Breakfast in bed.
2. Dinner made by offspring.
3. Planter courtesy of Stacie and Home Depot.
4. Visits.
5. Phone calls from loved ones.
6. One wonderful mother.
7. Lunch date.
8. Phone calls to loved ones.
9. Love notes.
10. Five amazing children.

Thanksgiving Point - A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

2009-05-07T08:50:00.010-06:00

Lonely Planet

2009-05-07T07:52:00.006-06:00

Husband Here:

Me here:

When did the planet get so large?

I Hear the Train a Comin......................

2009-05-01T09:01:00.006-06:00

I had my first photo shoot of model trains. Curious enough, I found myself talking to them.
Jens' restaurant has an amazing train display that has customers ooing and ahhing and taking pictures.
Hopefully we will soon have the first set of collectors POST CARDS ready for purchase!

Triple Threat ²

2009-04-23T17:23:00.003-06:00

Stacie played the drums in a assembly held for kids who had good grades. The entire assembly was a band consisting of 3 teachers. For the last three songs two other kids and Stacie joined them. She was a hit.

Fashion - The Color Version

2009-04-23T14:24:00.002-06:00

It really has been a long time since I have blogged. Come to find out that blogging in my head doesn't really get me anywhere.

The girls - Stacie and Mally - made this cute Fashion movie. So I thought I would share.

Fashion Nostalgia

2009-04-23T14:07:00.002-06:00

19 Days till Christmas - Blogolicious

2008-11-24T11:58:00.003-07:00

Celery and Leek Soup

Celery and Leek Soup

1/3 cup butter, melted
2 cups finely chopped celery
2 cups leeks, white and green , sliced and soaked (to remove dirt)

Saute for 10 minutes.
Add 1/3 cup flour - cook 3 minutes
Add 3 cans chicken stock - slowly (6 cups)

Simmer for 20 minutes.
Gently puree' - (not liquefy)
Return to pan and gently simmer for 10 minutes.
Add 1 cup cream (or milk).
Season to taste.

Yummy - I got this recipe from Grandma Fran because Steph loved it so much when she lived with her a year and a half ago. It really is delicious.

To freeze: either freeze the leeks and celery that have been sauted and have the rest of the ingredients on hand or be totally on the ball and make the soup as written - let it cool - freeze in wonderful freezer Ziplock baggies - and all you have to do it heat and eat. My kind of meal.

Baby Chase

2008-11-24T07:41:00.004-07:00

Baby Chase was born November 21st. He weighed in at 10 lbs. 7 oz. 21" long.
Look at those cute chubby cheeks.
Because of his size his entrance into this world was very traumatic . He got a little squashed.
He was rushed to the NICU. Once there they inflated his lungs, put him on oxygen, and a nutrient tube. He liked to hold his breath when he cried. A big guy with a little temper.
They thought his clavicil and arm might be broken - but gratefully it is not - he is bruised and sore.

As of today - November 24th - he is still in the NICU- but doing much better. He is breathing on his own and not holding his breath. Now he just needs to learn to eat.
Christine is staying at the Ronald McDonald suite at the hospital on the NICU floor. There she is able to help nurse him and take care of him.

I have yet to hold him - for now I just look at his pictures.

20 Days Til Christmas - Chicken Noodle Soup

2008-11-13T07:39:00.002-07:00

Chicken Noodle Soup

Mix together and heat:
5 cans chicken broth (14 oz.)
2 cans cream of chicken soup
Add:
1 cup finely chopped onion
2 cups chopped celery
3 cups sliced carrots

Boil 10 minutes or until veggies are tender.

Add:
2 cups cooked and chopped chicken.
2-3 cups egg noodles (depending on how noddle-ey you like it.)

Boil until noodles are cooked al dente.

To make a freezer meal:
Combine broth, soup, onions, celery, carrots. Bag and label.
Bag yourself some cooked and chopped chicken. Label.
Measure out noodles (uncooked) and bag and label.
Put all bags in gallon size freezer bag. Include recipe. Label.
You will be thankful you can put homemade soup on the table in about 20 minutes.

21 Days Til Christmas

2008-11-13T06:59:00.002-07:00

The most frightening thing - it is only 42 days till Christmas. I need to step up my posting and step up my freezer meals. But remember - any is better than none.

Grandma Tillie's Famous Tuna Casserole

2 cups elbow macaroni
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can milk
1 cup grated or shredded cheese
1 can tuna

Buttered and toasted bread crumbs

Cook macaroni with onion according to directions on package. Drain. Set aside. Combine soup, milk and cheese. Place over low heat until cheese is melted. Add tuna. Mix macaroni and soup mixture. Put in casserole dish sprayed with Pam. Top with bread crumbs. Bake 350° until bubbly and hot . 20 - 30 minutes.

Buttered and toasted bread crumbs: Use the heels of the loaf of bread that might get thrown away. Put in blender and crumb away. Store in a freezer bag in the freezer. When a recipe calls for bread crumbs open the freezer and - badda boom badda bang - you have them.
To toast: put a small amount of butter in a skillet. (3 TBS) Melt. Add bread 1/2 cup bread crumbs. Stir constantly until toasted.

To make a freezer meal: Measure out 2 cups macaroni. Do NOT cook. Put in bag and label. Chop onions and bag the little suckers. Combine soup, milk, cheese and tuna. Bag and label. Toast crumbs - bag and label. Put all the bags in a gallon size freezer bag and label. Include recipe.
Wa-laa - Another wonderful freezer meal ready to prepare.

Happy Hallo - er , I mean Birthday! Kristopher

2008-11-13T06:33:00.003-07:00

More Halloween FUn

2008-11-07T08:37:00.003-07:00

Halloween Fun

2008-11-07T08:17:00.003-07:00

We had our 3rd annual Halloween Party at Kiki's. The traditional Sloppy Joes were served - and everyone brought another dish to help.
I thought I would go as a blonde this year. So did Reagan,
and Kiki,
and Stephi,
and Mally.

22 Days Til Christmas

2008-11-07T07:53:00.003-07:00

Taco's
Cook meat, rinse and drain. add seasoning. Cool and freeze.
If freezer room is plenty - shells (hard or soft) can be frozen.
If not just remember to have some on hand.

I've Been Tagged

2008-11-07T07:35:00.003-07:00

I like this tagging - no telling of deep dark secrets -

The rule is to post the 4th picture of the 4th folder in your Pictures Album and tell a little about the picture.
By luck it is a picture I took . I have many many many folder with images other than pictures.
Okay - I'll admit this deep dark secret - I love to save images on my puter. Stampin' Up! stuff , hair styles, photo inspirations. You name it , I am an image junkie!
This picture was taken up Provo Canyon. I remember the exact turn in the road where I shot it.
During Autumn, Provo Canyon is a wonderland for photographers. The favorite time? - Conference weekend.
I tag my sister!

23 Days 'till Christmas - Chicken Chilada's

2008-10-20T09:02:00.003-06:00

I've previously posted this recipe. To make a freezer meal: Cook cut up chicken - cool and put in freezer ziplock. Mix soup, milk, sour cream and green chilies, ( if using only half a can of green chilies, freeze the remainder in an additional bag for use in another recipe - or................. make TWO chilada recipes.) Put in freezer bag and label. Tear flour tortillas and bag. Measure and bag the shredded cheese. Assemble all in an XL freezer bag and label. Put a happy smile on your face when December comes and meal time is easy!!!

24 Days Till Christmas - Chicken Fajita's

2008-10-14T04:42:00.006-06:00

By the time I get dinner fixed and another meal in the freezer I am too tired to take a picture. Trust me - it's yummy!

Fajitas like Chili's®

Serves: 4
For the freezer: Prepare the raw chicken in the marinade and seal in ziplock.
Cut onions and peppers. Seal in another ziplock.
Prepare additional flavoring and ziplock.
Count # of tortilla's and put in another ziplock.
Put all the bags in a X large ziplock and label. Freeze.

Marinade:
1/4 cup lime juice
2 Tbls. olive oil OR vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic - crushed
2 tsp. soy sauce - divided
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. liquid smoke
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp. black pepper

1 lb. boned, skinned chicken breasts OR skirt steak

2 Tbls. water
1/2 tsp. lime juice
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper

1 lrg. Spanish onion - sliced thin
1/2 med. green bell pepper - seeded, sliced thin
1/2 med. red bell pepper - seeded, sliced thin
1/2 med. yellow bell pepper - seeded, sliced thin

-Combine 1/4 cup lime juice, 2 Tbls. oil, garlic, 2 tsp. soy sauce, 1 tsp. salt, liquid smoke, cayenne pepper, and 1/4 tsp. black pepper in a sealable plastic ziplock bag, add chicken/steak to container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight (preferred).

-Combine water, 1 tsp. soy sauce, 1/2 tsp. lime juice, and a dash of salt and pepper; set aside.

-Grill meat over a medium-high flame for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

-Cut meat into thin strips; set aside and keep warm.
( I actually cut my meat into strips and cook in a skillet sprayed with Pam.)

-In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook onion and peppers in 1 Tbls. oil until brown; remove from heat; pour reserved liquid mixture over onions and peppers.
-Toss together meat, onions, and peppers.

Notes: Serve with warm tortillas, pico de gallo, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.

25 Days 'Til Christmas

2008-10-10T13:44:00.006-06:00

I've decided to try and be better prepared for Christmas. I've come up with a cooking plan called the "25 Days 'Til Christmas" plan. (Hence the name of my post.)

I am going to make freezer meals and hopefully by the beginning of December I will have 25 meals waiting for me. The cool part of the plan (no pun intended), is that I will just double meals that I make in the next couple of months. Brilliant you say? I hope so.

Freezer meals will last 3-6 months in the freezer.

Meal # 25

Chicken Stroganoff

12 chicken tenderloins - boiled in salted water and cut into thirds
(Frozen tenderloins will boil in approx. 15-20 minutes. Do not overcook or they will be tough.)

Saute in small amount EVOO and butter:
1/4 large onion - finely chopped
4 mushrooms - finely chopped
Lightly season with salt and pepper

2 cans cream of mushroom soup
1 can milk
1/4 teaspoon Kitchen Bouquet
½ pkg onion soup mix
1 teaspoon paprika

Mix altogether. Put in baking dish.
Bake 350̊ for 30 minutes or until bubbly.

Add ½ cup sour cream.
Serve over pasta or rice.

Serves 6.

If freezing - double freezer bag and label. Remove from freezer the night before or the morning that it is to eaten and defrost in fridge.

10 Reasons I Love October Conference

2008-10-06T10:33:00.011-06:00

10. We get to go to Grandma's.

9. A good night sleep on a comfy bed.

8. Sharing a meal three times a day.

7. My hands can stay busy while I listen, cutting out a quilt.

6. A MooMoo can be worn to church.

5. We get to go to grandma's.

4. Hearing the announcement of five new temples in --Rome, Italy; Calgary, Canada;
Cordoba, Argentina; Philadelphia and in the greater Kansas City, Mo. area.

3. Our wonderful prophet and his counselor.

2. Stepping outside the back door and feeding swans.

1. We get to go to Grandma's.

My Princess - August 27, 2008

2008-10-05T20:33:00.003-06:00

Reagan had a Princess Party for her 4th birthday. The little princesses came dressed in their fancy gowns and then Korianne gave them updo's (or at least a 'do') and a little makeover. They learned how to walk and curtsy like a princess. There was a castle bounce house and the girls had a blast! Then like any good princess party they ate chocolate. Korianne sure knows how to throw a party!

Monet to Picasso or Where did the summer go?

2008-09-16T04:21:00.011-06:00

Claude Monet (French, 1840–1926). The Red Kerchief: Portrait of Mrs. Monet (La capeline rouge, portrait de Madame Monet), 1868–78. Oil on fabric; 99 x 79.8 cm. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Bequest of Leonard C. Hanna Jr. 1958.39. © The Cleveland Museum of Art

The U of U sponsored an art collection exhibition. Stacie, Malorie, Steph and I went. It was very fascinating . I did not realize that Monet was alive when my mother was born (1924).
The paintings stirred my soul just knowing they were originals.

Some of the interpretations of art critics made me giggle. How do they know?

"Breathless"

This piece called "Breathless" was in the permanent collection where photo's were allowed.
(also no one but us went to see - gee it was FREE )

Let's see - since I am now a trained art critic - I say the artist portrayed the man always in a hurry, henceforth, he became breathless, henceforth he turned blue!

Don't we all feel this way sometimes?

1-2-3-exhale...............................

"Sticks and Sticks" - interpret that anyway you want!

Blog-o-licious FRESH CORN SALSA

2008-06-14T11:13:00.004-06:00

Fresh Corn Salsa

1-1/2 lb. tomatoes, chopped

1 cup fresh corn kernels

1/4 cup finely chopped red onions

1/4 cup chopped cilantro or fresh parsley

1/2 medium jalapeño pepper, chopped
1 avocado, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup KRAFT Zesty Italian Dressing

COMBINE all ingredients except dressing in large bowl.

ADD dressing; mix lightly.

Optional - Add one can of black beans - rinsed and drained

Kraft Foods Summer 2008 - with a few changes :)

Running With Angels - First Installment

2008-06-02T20:33:00.004-06:00

Korianne and Pam Hansen - the author

A sister in our ward wrote the book 'Running With Angels' , she also started a 5k Walk and Run four years ago. Korianne and Stephen ran the first race. These are pictures from this year.
Yes, they really are having fun....... They have a new hobby to do together - run5k's. Stephen is Korianne's support system in more ways than one. It's all good.

This year the 5K was held at Thanksgiving Point. What a beautiful place! The girls and I volunteered with packets (see Second installment for more details) the night before and then the day of the race Mally and I helped. My hard, hard job was to be in the beautiful gardens along the 5k trail, cheering the people on and making sure they were on the right path. A cute little lady who goes there daily to walk stood by me the whole time and helped me encourage the participants. She kept telling how much fun she had.
The great thing about this race is that many people who would not participate in another race will participate in this one.

Bad Blogger, Running With Angels - installment 2 and Janice Kapp Perry

2008-05-31T22:00:00.006-06:00

I have been a bad blogger. Time flies and I actually have exciting things to post beside my recipes.
May 17 was the 4th annual 'Running With Angels' 5k . (Link attached) Kiki and Stephen were running the race. Even though they did the hard stuff this is about me. (Pictures in previous post.)

On Friday night Malorie, Stacie and I volunteered and handed out packets to the participants.
An older woman came through the line, she asked if we had wheelchairs along the race route, I told her no, but my tall, dark and handsome husband was on the clean up committee. Meaning, if there were any people left on the trail he was to get them. She said in that case she was going to be slow.
Anyway- to make a long story even longer - after she got her packet and left, the organizer of the race came and told me it was Janice Kapp Perry. I did feel a little silly but that did not stop me from any further embarrassment.

So now we go to Saturday morning - 7:00 am. I am not really a morning person at all. (I used to be but then I got wise.) Malorie and I helped out at Thanksgiving Point where the race was. I was lucky enough to be put on the trail in the gardens. My job was to cheer the 1000+ participants on and make sure they were on the right track. A cute little lady (not part of the race) stood by me the entire time and helped me cheer. She said it was so much fun. And it was.

Sure enough Kiki and Stephen came through (they are running 5k's together as a hobby or something.......) I cheered really loud for them. And a long time later JKP jogged along. She waved to me and I cheered loud for her as well.
Okay - that part of the story doesn't really add anything - but it is fun to tell.

After all the participants came through I left the gardens and went to the parking lot where they were giving away food (yum) and prizes. Neal had come to cheer Kiki on and take pictures.

So I showed my family Janice Kapp Perry. And then............. I had this brilliant idea.

Rewind several years...................... We are in the book store....... we see this CD................ Steph just has to have it.................so I finally bought it for her. ( years later) Check out this picture of the CD cover ....Parallel Universe.

Now back to the 5K. I approached Janice Kapp Perry and told her my daughter loved the CD. She looked at me horrified - she said that was soooooooo embarrassing. Of course you know that didn't stop me from asking her if she would pose with me playing air guitar. What a gal...........
She was so cute and gracious........... she said - this is a private picture (as we had a crowd gawking at us.) I said , yes and it will go on my private blog.

Life is good.

Ode to the Amish Friendship Bread

2008-05-20T08:45:00.000-06:00

My final installment of my adventures of Amish Friendship Bread:

Ode to the Amish Friendship Bread
By Lorie

Go, for it calls you, Baker, from the kitchen:
Go, Baker, and release the fermenting dough:
No longer leave thy wistful concoction unfed,
Nor let thy aromas cease to fill the room,
Nor daily mushings lightly tread.
But when the time is finally ripe,
And you hear it calling, calling the best,
And only the plastic container will do,
Stir, and conquer and divide -
Come, Baker and again begin the quest.

Go, for it calls you, Baker from the kitchen,
Go, Baker, and begin your daily mushing,
Mushing, mushing, of the dough.
Releasing air from gently filled bag,
It’s scent fills your nostrils ,high and low.
And here till, sundown, Baker will I be,
Till I can no longer take the mushing
And feeding of this inventive treat-
Please forgive me, my Amish friends
For the garbage can my start did meet.

Blog -fog

2008-05-15T15:59:00.002-06:00

Reagan - Aspen Grove 2007

Blogging Skills Updated

2008-05-08T05:14:00.002-06:00

Thanks to a certain favorite niece, I now have a new blogging skill.
A link - instead of a very long cut and paste url. So here goes:
Aspen Grove 2006 okay= I really don't have much to link to -
but if you are interested in 459 pictures of AG 2006 - here is the place.

Oilve Garden Cappellini Pomodoro

2008-05-07T09:18:00.002-06:00

2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
2 pounds plum tomatoes, (Roma) diced
1 ounce fresh basil leaves, minced
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 ounces Parmesan cheese - fresh
12 ounces dry angel hair pasta, cooked
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Heat olive oil and add garlic. Cook until garlic turns white.

Add tomatoes and pepper. heat through, stirring constantly, about 2 -3 minutes.
Tomatoes should not lose their shape.

Remove from heat, Transfer hot cooked pasta to large bowl. Toss pasta gently with tomato mixture,
basil and half of the Parmesan Cheese.

Serve immediately with the remaining Parmesan.

Here are some pic's - I hope

2008-05-07T08:11:00.008-06:00

Maren, Alex, Margo, Tim, Ben, Megan

Mona, Margo, Tim, Ken

Guess who?

Tim and Margo

I have issues and sometimes it is too late (or too early) in the night to figure them out.
Apparently - I still am figuring out this blog-a-bunch-o-pictures in the same post.

Here is the link to all the day's pic's. Okay - this is for you two bloggerfessionals.
How do I write - "Margo and Tim" and have it link to the web album?
Until then: please copy and paste

http://picasaweb.google.com/loriefleischer/200805032008MayMargoAndTim

Wedding Day Bliss

2008-05-06T04:54:00.002-06:00

Margo Farnsworth - daughter of Ken and Mona, got married to Tim Abbot, on May 3rd in the Mount Timpanogos Temple. It was a wonderful day. I was not the photographer, but I did not miss an opportunity to take pics. It was perfect weather.

More Amish Friendship Bread Musings

2008-05-01T18:04:00.002-06:00

As a post note: Amish Bread sour dough starts are very forgiving - just like the Amish.
You do make many friends by sharing the bread - as for sharing the start - use your discretion.
Did the Amish really create this? Interestingly the recipe calls for Instant Pudding...........
Lemon flavor is a favorite. So is chocolate. Cinnamon gets great reviews.
The least favorite - Butterscotch. We'll leave that flavor for the Christmas Pull-Aparts.
Saturday is the day to bake and share.

BLog-o-licious Pina Colada

2008-05-01T17:45:00.003-06:00

Hey, it's a great day! I have three, yep, three Blog readers. A big high five to you three!!
And to celebrate here is a yummy recipe for Pina Coloda:

Frozen Pina Colada
8 cups water
2 cups pineapple juice
2 cups sugar
1 can frozen pina colada mix
2 liters Sprite or Lemon Lime Soda

In a large pan dissolve the sugar in the water. Add the pina colada mix and pineapple juice and mix. Carefully pour into gallon freezer Ziplok bags and freeze. You will need two gallon bags per recipe. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature until slushy. Place in a punch bowl and add the Sprite or lemon lime soda.

Blog-o-licious Crock Pot Roast

2008-04-28T22:34:00.003-06:00

I seem to be a little behind on my blog-o-licious-ing. On Sunday we had Roast Beef done in the crock pot. It was tender and tasty and easy. The best part was the smell through out the house when we got home from church.

Roast Beef in Crock Pot

1 - 3lb rump roast ( 1/2 lb. per person)
1 pkg. Lipton Onion Soup Mix
2 - 3 cans Cream of Mushroom Soup (1/2 can per person)

Put roast in crock pot fat side up. Sprinkle onion soup mix on top. Pour cream of mushroom soup over top of roast.
Cook on HIGH for 4-5 hours.
Remove and cover with foil tent for 15 minutes while preparing gravy.
Add 1/2 cup sour cream to mushroom soup.
Season to taste.
Slice beef against the grain and serve.

Our Little Drummer Bug

2008-04-28T22:25:00.002-06:00

She's a Rockin' Roll Queen

2008-04-28T22:19:00.005-06:00

)
Saturday, Stacie had a drum concert. (aka - recital) . She got to have her band "Inconsistent Protocol" come and accompany her. They played the only song they know - "Hum Hallelujah ". I do believe they got the most applause.

Scrapbooking

2008-04-24T14:24:00.003-06:00

I had a random urge to scrapbook today. Interesting you say. So before I did anything foolish I took a deep breath and it slowly passed.
However, my craft room actually has hope - here is a before picture. Yep, that's a hand chair in the corner. After the room is done, and only then will I succumb to my peculiar scrappy feelings.
What to do: remove carpet
remove baseboards
paint walls and new baseboards
lay new floor
put in new baseboards
add shelves
move crafting supplies (aka crap) to new room
SCRAFT my little heart out!!!

Blog-o-licious Taco Soup

2008-04-24T13:49:00.004-06:00

2
This is our favorite
Taco Soup recipe.
My little fam gobbles it right up.

Brown 1 lb. ground beef with 1/2 chopped onion. Drain
Add to soup pot:
cooked ground beef and onion
1 - 14 oz. can kidney beans with liquid
1- -14 oz. can black beans with liquid
1 - 14 oz. can garbanzo beans with liquid
2 cups water
28 oz. can cut tomatoes ( I blend mine so pieces are smaller and undetectable)
1 can corn - or use frozen (optional)
4 oz can diced green chilies
1 teaspoon salt
2 Tablespoons Taco Seasoning

Mix and simmer for 10 minutes. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, green onions, and anything else you fancy. Serve with tortilla chips. Serves 4 with leftovers for lunch for the mom. (This will freeze nicely.)

Midnight Musings

2008-04-22T00:40:00.002-06:00

My favorite midnight snack:
Grandma's (me) Famous Toast
1 slice homemade bread
toasted to perfection
butter spread of choice - spread quickly as soon as the toast pops up
either eat plain or it's delicious with cinnamon sugar, homemade strawberry jam, or Utah Honey

I have been sick today so toast is really all I have made. It is either the flu, a cold, bronchitis, or the dreaded gumboo. I go see the Dr. tomorrow.

LMN Channel can keep one entertained for hours when one does not feel well. However, watching more than one movie per day can cause severe depression. Those people really have it hard. (I only watched two and that was too many.) I know are saying to yourself - there is an off button - oh no - these show are riveting - one has watch to make sure the heroine survives.

I love music in my home. When Steph left so did the singing and I do get lonesome for it. The little girls (which are taller than me) have decided that singing isn't so bad, and if they don't think I am listening, they go for it.

If you need to take medication especially pain meds- it is best to stay upright for at least a half hour. Your tummy will thank you.

The house always seems messier when one is lying about on the couch, not able to do anything about it.

Sharpened pencils are one of life's little pleasures.

Sourdough Start Musing - does it matter if one is a day late making 'Amish Friendship Bread' from the sourdough start? I guess we shall see.

Why do the days seem so long when you would rather be doing something else. Time is time. A minute is a minute. It is interesting that time takes on different characteristics depending on what you are doing.

Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.

— Scott Adams

Good night.

Chicken Chilada Casserole

2008-04-19T21:45:00.004-06:00

This recipe is actually Chicken Enchilada's with a twist. I like it better than the traditional because the tortilla's don't take over the casserole. I created it with Stephanie in mind - hoping someday she will try it.

Chicken Chilada's
10 chicken breast tenderloins - cooked and largely chopped
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 soup can of milk
1 cup sour cream
3/4 cup favorite shredded cheese (ours is Colby and Monterey Jack)
1/2 of a 4 oz can diced green chilies (the rest can be frozen)
4-5 flour tortilla's
1 cup additional shredded cheese

Mix soup, milk, sour cream, 3/4 cup cheese, and green chilies in large bowl. Set aside.
Spray a large casserole dish with PAM.
Spread a small layer of the soup mix to the bottom (about 1/4 cup).
Cut or tear two tortilla's and cover the bottom of the dish.
Add the chopped chicken, spreading evenly.
Cover with most of the soup mix - saving approx 1/3 cup for the top.
Layer the rest of the tortilla's on top.
Lightly spread the rest of the soup mix on top.

Bake at 350°for 30 min or until bubbly. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top and let
melt. Enjoy! Serves 4.

I was going to take a picture but we ate it all!

On The Road Again

2008-04-16T21:48:00.002-06:00

Whew! We finally made it home! We had a GREAT visit with G'ma. I think we got her ready to go to Hawaii. We even bought her a super cute album to put all her pictures in when she gets home.
We'll have to take another road trip down to see her when she gets back. Happy traveling y'all!!

Another Day in Sunny Southern Utah

2008-04-15T21:59:00.002-06:00

We are still here enjoying the warm weather. I got a call from Stephen about 5:00 pm telling me to enjoy my stay because it is snowing in Salt Lake City. I don't think I am ready to go home........
Today we went shopping to get G'ma all ready for Hawaii. She got her med's, a new swimming suit, 4 new shirts, a nice ship worthy jacket and some much needed ring bling. (Everyone needs ring bling!)
I took Bambi (my auto) to give her a long overdue bath. She glistens, she glows, she shines in the sun and she makes me happy.
We had dinner and then spent the evening cheering for David Archuleta on American Idol. Then we tuned into "Dancing With the Stars" and agreed with the rest of America when Pricilla Presley was kicked off. What a night.

I have discovered (a long time ago) that I really really really like to cook. It is therapy for me.
So I have tried to spoil G'ma by cooking for her while I am here. Tomorrow I will post the recipes as Malorie has just reminded me I am in her bedroom and she is ready to go to bed.

St. George

2008-04-14T20:42:00.000-06:00

Here we are in sunny St. George ! I really can't believe how warm it is. A balmy 80°. Stacie, Mally and I picked up G'ma Tillie in Nephi and brought her back home. She is getting ready to to go to Hawaii. She leaves on Thursday to Vegas and then Friday - her dream comes true.
Like a silly, willy I forgot to bring my camera this time - so no pic's. (Seriously - what is the deal?)
Well, off to bed I go - a big day of shopping tomorrow!Post Options

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2008-03-15T16:17:00.002-06:00

When I was a young girl we filled our summers with 4-H classes. They were the highlight of every year after school was out. We learned many skills including cooking, sewing, home care, babysitting. At the end of the summer we celebrated by entering our newly learned talents in the local fair.
One summer we entered homemade chocolate chip cookies in the fair. My friend didn't have time to make hers so she called and asked me if she could have some of mine. I really didn't want to but I wanted her friendship more so I said yes. I made the cookies and kept six for me and gave six to her.
Our cookies sat side by side in the 4-H building. On top on them were the ribbons. She got a blue ribbon and I got a red ribbon.
At first I was really hurt, but this lesson has lived with me and I have been able to share it with many people.
It is just an opinion - and different judges might judge differently.
So next time you feel wrongly judged just remember the chocolate chip cookie story.

Malorie's Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies
3/4 cup Butter flavored Crisco Shortening
1 1/4 cups firmly packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoon milk
1 tablespoon vanilla
1 egg
1 3/4 cup flour
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans (optional)

1. Heat oven to 375°.
2. Combine Butter flavored Crisco, brown sugar, milk and vanilla in large bowl. Beat at medium speed of electric mixer until well blended and creamy. Beat egg into creamed mixture.
3. Combine flour, salt and baking soda. Mix into creamed mixture just until blended. Stir in chocolate chips and pecan pieces.
4. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough 3 inched apart onto ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes for chewy cookies. They will look slightly raw. Do not overbake.
Cool for 2 minutes on baking sheet. Remove cookies to cooling rack.

Makes about 3 dozen cookies.