Media and such!

Husband and I like TV and currently Arrow and Flash are winning a bunch of our viewing hours. No, it isn't the most amazing acting, but DANG is it entertaining! They just did 2 different cross over episodes that made me feel the warmest and the fuzziest. Also, Husband and I enjoy video games. We just got Diablo 3 and have been playing it together and I am in love with it. Husband has been playing Dragon Age 3 and it is super cool!  I am still working through Dragon Age 2 myself. So 2015 will probably mark my finishing of several games and that is pretty exciting to me.

Happy New Year Blog friends and family! I hope it is joyous and blessed!

Menu Planning for a Low Carb January

As I started my P90 challegene yesterday, I decided to attempt to plan a menu for the the first month of the year that was Low Carb, yet interesting and challenging enough of myself in the kitchen. So after a bit of research from my own recipes and the Pinterest Internet Webs, this is what I came up with:

Jan 1 - Pesto Chicken

Jan 2 - Chili

Jan 3 - BBQ Pulled Pork

Jan 4 - Cream of Mushroom Soup

Jan 5 - Balsamic Pork  

Jan 6 - Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Jan 7 - Meatballs

Jan 8 - Slutty Zoodles 

Jan 9 - Kung Pao Chickpeas with Cauliflower Fried Rice

Jan 10 - Brushetta Chicken

Jan 11 - Salad Nicoise

Jan 12 - Cheeseburger Stuffed Mushrooms

Jan 13 - Chicken or Pork Curry 

Jan 14 - Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Jan 15 - Low Carb Pizza Bites

Jan 16 - Stuffed Peppers

Jan 17 - Caprese Salad

Jan 18 - Salsa Chicken

Jan 19 - Cauliflower Pizza

Jan 20 - Pork Stew

Jan 21 - Taco Lettuce Wraps

Jan 22 -  Protein Style Hamburgers at Home

Jan 23 - Chicken Chili

Jan 24 - Low carb Shepherd's Pie

Jan 25 - Almond Crusted Chicken Nuggets

Jan 26 - Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Jan 27 - Meatloaf

Jan 28 - Deviled Eggs with Tuna Melts

Jan 29 - Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole

Jan 30 - Zucchini Lasagna

Jan 31 - Stir Fry

Today, I am (well, Husband really) getting things from the store for the first week and a half of this Menu Plan. If things are proving to be too pricey for our food budget, then I will adjust. I already have several of the dishes made as well as already have the protein that is called for. Plus, buying in bulk! We shall see. Also, there could easily be a surplus of foods as I plan on making something every night. For Dishes like the Pesto Chicken, I will make only enough for that evening. While Dishes like the Chili, Meatballs, or anything else that would be easily reheated for lunch, I will make enough of for at least 2 extra servings. I will see how it plays out. :)

BFMH: Baked Eggs in Ham Cups

This was super easy and a good way to prep for the New Year and resolutions.

Baked Egg Cups

12 Eggs

12 thin slices of deli ham (round)

1/2 Cup of your favorite cheese (I used Parmesan)

1/2 Cup diced scallions

Fresh cracked Sea Salt and Pepper

Preheat the oven to 400.  Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray.  Lay a piece of ham in each hole creating a little ham cup.  Crack one egg into each hole and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake the eggs for about 12 minutes…until the white is firm and the yolk is still nice and runny.

Carefully remove each egg from the muffin tin and top with grated cheese and scallions.  Serve hot!  Yield: 12

I forgot scallions, purposely, but I did. I simply can't get behind buying them that often. I can't wait till I have a garden and can grow them. That will be a great thing.

I put cheese on before it went into the oven.

Egg and cheese become one.

Perfection.

Anyway, this is my favorite "Low Carb Muffin Tin Breakfast" to date. A good amount of protein, very little carb, and easy to make in a morning. I highly suggest this for those people on Low Carb diets.

Week 8 of #100daysofthanksgiving

Week 8

Day 50: 12/20:  Flying away from the traffic of LA

Day 51: 12/21: When I realize I am not the only one in the family that loves Disney.

Day 52: 12/22: Attending Garden Glow with my in loves.

Day 53: 12/23: Hanging out with my niece and nephew.

Day 54: 12/24: Christmas Eve with my Husband.

Day 55: 12/25: The generosity of my family.

Day 56: 12/26: THAT house on the block.

My Favorite Christmas Movies - A List to Rule All Lists

I like Christmas Movies.

Here are the ones I watched this season and why I like (or don't) them.

The Muppet Christmas Carol - Friday 11/28
The Muppet Christmas Carol Trailer
Why I like it: Because it is something the whole family can enjoy. Gonzo and Rizzo are the super prominent characters. Plus, Michael Caine is the best Scrooge ever. Period.

White Christmas - Friday 11/28
White Christmas Trailer
Why I like it: The Best Things Happen When You're Dancing. Feel good delightfulness with singing and dancing.


Scrooged - Saturday 11/29
Scrooged Trailer
Why I like it: I will be honest, I don't really like it. I assume it is because I watched when I was too young as a kid and get spooked out by the Ghost of....well all of them. Plus Bill Murray was extra the worst in it. That being said, I think it is an excellent re-invisioning of the story.

The Nightmare Before Christmas - Saturday 11/29
The Nightmare Before Christmas Trailer
Why I like it: It is Christmas with out being too saccharine.  Plus, I can normally get away with watching before Thanksgiving was passed.


National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation - Sunday 11/30
The National Lampoon's: Christmas Vacation Trailer
Why I like it: This is Husband's favorite. It is just hilarious and so incredibly quotable. Plus I got to witness my Step Mom watch for the first time. Priceless


Love Actually - Monday 12/1
Love Actually Trailer
Honest Trailers: Love Actually
Why I like it: I have to be honest, I REALLY HONESTLY don't like this movie when I really think about it. The characters are pretty lousy people and I don't care for the disrespect all the characters show to one another.


Home Alone - Thursday 12/4
Home Alone Trailer
Honest Trailers: Home Alone
Why I like it: This one is Nostalgia. Kevin is actually a bit of a terrifying character, but it is just such a lovely movie with some really great physical comedy.

Elf - Thursday 12/4
Elf: Trailer
Why I like it: It is a joyful diversion that most of my friends can agree on. Will Ferrell as a naive sweetheart is much more enjoyable than watching him be an arrogant jack ass.


The Holiday - Friday 12/5
The Holiday Trailer
Why I like it:This is the first time I have seen this moving actually. Loved it. I made Fettuccine after watching it and I think that it will become a tradition for myself. A rom com that is totally saccharine.


The Santa Clause - Monday 12/8
The Santa Clause Full Movie
Why I like it: Tim Allen is a character I enjoyed watching go through this change. Husband told me I should watch it, so I did and I am happy with the outcome. A relevant movie on several accounts.


Bad Santa - Wednesday 12/10
Bad Santa Trailer
Why I like it: This was my first time getting to watch it. I will say that I thought it was gross for the first 5 minutes, then I got use to the potty humor and I was in. I look forward to watching it again next year as I think that it will be even better upon second viewing.


A Christmas Story - Saturday 12/13
A Christmas Story Trailer
Why I like it: This movie use to be one of my least favorite movies that would play on a loop on TV. Now, for some weird reason, it seems to strike a chord with me. I like the story telling aspect of it and the delightful mundaneness of it while it is still quite delightful. It is easy to have on in the background too.


About a Boy - Tuesday 12/16
About a Boy Trailer
Why I like it: It isn't a Christmas movie, but it talks about Christmas so it is normally watched before Thanksgiving for me to get my Christmas brained revved up. It focuses delightful on family with out being sappy and talks about the idea of people who aren't blood, but who are family neverthe less.


Santa Claus Conquers the Martians - Wednesday 12/17
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians Full Movie
Why I like it: It is so bad, it is great. You don't need to give it your full attention, but it is delightful. If you can't see past the bad costumes and makeup, then don't try to watch it. If you can, then enjoy it.
Better yet: Santa Claus Conquers the Martians: Drinking Game

Ernest Saves Christmas - Wednesday 12/17
Ernest Saves Christmas Full Movie
Why I like it: Nostalgia. Ernest is just the most endearing fellow ever. Also, the man who plays Santa Claus and the little lady at the children's museum are spectacular. The Ernest franchise isn't for everyone and I most certainly have to be in the right mood for it.

Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas - Wednesday 12/17
Mickey's Once Upon A Christmas Trailer
Why I like it: I like that is hand drawn animation and that it tells the story of "The Gift of the Magi". Also, I am pretty much always down for Max and Goofy's antics.

Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas - Wednesday 12/17
Mickey's Twice Upon A Christmas Trailer
Why I like it: WHile I am not a huge fan of the computer animated stuff, I really like the Huey, Dewy, and Lewey short in this one. I REALLY disliked the Minnie and Daisy one. Way too catty and rude to each other, though the reference from Fantasia is great too.


The Lord of the Rings Trilogy - Thursday 12/18 (See Harry Potter Comment)
Lord of the Rings Honest Trailer
Why I like it: I know this isn't a Christmas movie, but Fellowship of the Ring came out Dec 19, 2001; Two Towers Dec 18, 2002; and Return of the King on Dec 17, 2003. I wonder why I feel like I want to watch it on Christmas Day....hehehe. In high school and college, I would marathon it on Christmas day with Twin Broder and I find that it was a nice departure from all the Christmas stuff when I work retail and food services.

Harry Potter Octalogy - Thursday 12/18 (No, I didn't watch ALL of them today, just the first one)
Harry Potter Honest Trailer
Why I like it: Again, these aren't "technically" Christmas Movies, I know. Yet with their release dates (see below) often times right before Thanksgiving and the delightful winter air the movies have during "Christmas break", I feel myself needing a Harry Potter dose sometime after Halloween. Plus, they are family friendly (at least the first 3) and they have the fantastic nature that makes them a perfect escape from the stress of the Holidays.
Sorcerer's Stone: November 16, 2001; Chamber of Secrets: November 15, 2002; Prisoner of Azkaban: June 4, 2004; Goblet of Fire: November 18, 2005; Order of the Phoenix: July 11, 2007; Half Blood Prince: July 15, 2009; Deathly Hallows Part 1: November 19, 2010; Deathly Hallows Part 2: July 15, 2011.


Muppet Family Christmas - Friday 12/19
Muppet Family Christmas Full Movie
Why I like it: There is LITERALLY nothing to dislike about this TV Special. I love me some Muppets and this is them to perfection. Watch this now if you have any sort of love for the Jim Henson Company. Also, fun fact, this is why the cartoon "Muppet Babies" came into existence.

John Denver and The Muppets - Friday 12/19
John Denver and The Muppets Full Movie
Why I like: It is super old, I know. I normally just listen to it, but then I found it on Youtube. Day made! I love the incredibly seventiesish Miss Piggy. John Denver acting and dancing is also pretty delightful. It was a bit weird when Miss Piggy was throwing herself at "Jonathon", but it was pretty funny. I like Family Christmas more, but this one might hit home with an older crowd.

Star Wars Christmas Special - Friday 12/19
Star Wars Christmas Full Movie
Why I like: I more listened to this one while working. It is not something to take seriously. It isn't "so bad, it is good!", it is just horrid. I just wish I could have played the Star Wars Christmas Special Drinking Game, but I can't do that work.

Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas - Friday 12/19
Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas Full Movie
Why I like it: It has OTTERS! The ditties are wonderful and the quality of the movie is high and the jokes are delightful as always.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947) - Friday 12/19
The Miracle on 34th Street Full Movie
Why I like it: This Classic brings out the best reasons to allow a child to have an imagination, the sheer joy of believing, and all thing related to the Christmas spirit. The new one is great as well, but I really like the black and white classic (especially when it is free for streaming that to Amazon Prime).

I'll Be Home For Christmas - Friday 12/19
I'll Be Home For Christmas Full Movie
Why I like it: I am happy I didn't see this when it first came out. In 1998, my mother was ill and the whole thing with the step mom probably would have been too close to home. I probably only watched about 20 minutes of this movie while it was on while I was working. It was fine, but not great. Little teenager version of Jessica Biel was great though.

Joyeux Noel - Friday 12/19
Joyeux Noel Trailer
Why I like: This was my first time watching this one. I was very fortunate that I could download it to my Kindle for the Plane ride, thanks to Amazon Prime!

The Rockettes: Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring The Rockettes - Friday 12/19
Rockettes Christmas Spectacular Trailer
Why I like it: Dancing, fun, and delightfulness. Again, I was able to download it to my Kindle for the Plane ride, thanks to Amazon Prime! Also, in case you didn't notice: I watched SO MUCH CHRISTMAS IN ONE DAY!

It's a Wonderful Life - Saturday 12/20

It's a Wonderful Life Trailer
Why I like it: I didn't grow up watch this movie while it is the Husband's family favorite besides National Lampoons: Christmas Vacation. As an adult, I didn't really care for a few of the characters while I first watched it, but, by the end of the movie, I was totally won over. There is a clear big bad (who is believable) with a guy who isn't clearly all good guy (which is also believable). I like those sort of odds and the feeling I get after watching it. If you haven't watched this one, trust the masses and dig in!

The List of Holiday/Christmas Movies I Draw From:

My Top 5
A Muppet Family Christmas
It's a Wonderful Life
White Christmas
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
The Nightmare Before Christmas

The Next 5
Elf
How the Grinch Stole Christmas - Cartoon
A Christmas Story
Home Alone
Miracle on 34th Street - 1994

Not REALLY Christmas Movies, but I still like them at this time of year
About a Boy
Meet Me in St Louis
Lethal Weapon
Die Hard
Gremlins
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Harry Potter Octalogy
Batman Returns
Trading Places

The Others That I have seen:
Jingle All the Way
The Holiday
Ernest Saves Christmas
The Polar Express
How the Grinch Stole Christmas - Live Action
Mickey's Christmas Carol
Home Alone 2
Miracle on 34th Street - 1947
The Santa Clause
Star Wars Christmas Special
John Denver and The Muppet
Muppet Family Christmas

Christmas Specials I like to Re-watch:
Any of the Doctor Who Christmas Special
Lady Gaga and the Muppets
Glee's Christmas Special

Movies I Haven't Seen
Fred Claus
Four Christmases
A Christmas Carol - Jim Carrey
Joyeux Noel
Babes in Toyland
Holiday Inn

8 Women

The Long Kiss Goodnight

Nativity

Nativity 2

Mickey's Magical Christmas

Bad Santa
Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas

I'll Be Home For Christmas

Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas
Mickey's Magical Christmas: Snowed in at the House of Mouse
Sleepless in Seattle
Christmas with the Kranks
While You Were Sleeping
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians
Hugo
It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie

Thin Man

Movies I don't care for, but everyone else seems to love

Any of the old Rankin & Bass stop motion specials: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Santa Clause IS coming town, Frosty the Snowman, The Little Drummer Boy, The Year without Santa, Etc
A Chipmunk Christmas
Love Actually
Charlie Brown Christmas
Scrooged

What is your favorite Christmas movie? Which one do I have to watch next year for sure?

Christmas Eve!

Today is my favorite day of the year. Period.

Expect when we find out Caorlyn is sick with the flu. Then it is a less than awesome Christmas eve.

 Prayers for my step mom with the flu, my cousin Ellen with liver cancer, the Arranda family after the lose of their sister/daughter, David Van Ausdal suffer from cancer, and everyone who has an empty spot at the table this holiday season.

I pray for my brothers who aren't with me this season, my nieces, and especially for Yumiko who is not having an easy pregnancy with my newest patruel.

Traditions, old and new, for our new Family

With a wonderful holiday and the Advent Season upon us, I thought It might be about time to talk about Family Traditions.

Husband's family and my family don't really have any "set in stone" family traditions for Christmas time.

I mean we both grew up getting (or getting out) a Christmas Tree and decorating it. We both grew up with cookies being made. We both have the typical "go see extended family" over the Holiday season. We both have holiday movies (or at least movies) we "must" watch. We both waited until Christmas Morning (with the option of opening one on Christmas Eve) to open presents. We both got Stockings. We both went out and looked out Christmas Lights in the other neighborhoods. We both had Advent Calendars and occasionally Wreaths. We both would do some sort of outing special for the Holiday, be it the Nutcracker or some sort of show or concert or a trip to the Christmas'd Zoo, etc. While Husband's family do have the "German" Pickle Ornament, it is not something that he required when we kept to ourselves last year at Christmas.

So like I said...nothing that is really a MUST do other that just basic "let's get into the season" sort of stuff.

Our Christmas Traditions

Over this last year and a half of marriage, Husband and I have decided on a few Traditions that we are going to do for the Advent Season.
1) We shall continue keeping an Advent Calendar of some sort.
2) We shall start our own "German" Pickle when we have kids of our own.
3) We shall have mailed out our Christmas Cards and have purchased all the presents by December 6th which is St Nicholas Day and we celebrate Husband's Polish heritage by eating an orange (or an orange flavored something.
4) We shall have a real Wreath upon our door.
5) While I did not like egg nog when I was younger, I have grown to LOVE my MiL's Egg Nog so that has become a tradition for us which we must drink from the Moose Head Mugs I got Husband for his birthday.
6) We clean out our closets and rooms before the holiday in order to donate that we which we don't need. I look forward to passing this tradition onto our someday maybe children.

While writing this post, I have been thinking about other traditions for other holidays which we have fallen into.

Other Holiday Traditions:

At Groundhog day (Also known as Candlemas Day, on February 2nd), we watch Groundhog Day and laugh at the silliness of the "holiday".

On Valentine's day, we don't stress. Maybe we go out if we are in need of a date, maybe we exchange small gifts, maybe we stay in and eat popcorn and watch Die Hard. Depends on what our love tanks need then and there.

At St David's day (March 1st), we (mainly me) celebrate the Welsh Heritage of my family by wearing a daffodil or leek and eating Welsh rarebit and sweet breads.

At St Patrick's day (March 17th) we eat and drink Irish fare, wear green, and avoid the idiots who think it might be ok to drive.

At Mardi Gras, we have a King's Cake, eat a good meal, decide what to abstain from for Lent, and wear purple (justice), gold (power), and green (faith).

At Easter, we join with our family (or family we choose) to eat a meal together after church.

On June 1st, our wedding anniversary, we exchange traditional gifts and have nice meal (and, if possible, have a night away).

We have meal appropriate for the Jewish High Holidays and say our Blessing with the holiday in mind.

Besides our hosting of Thanksgiving and having the "usual" dishes that we both prefer to make, I have instituted a tradition of playing Rock Band.

At St Andrew's Day (November 30th), we eat Scottish fare and I wear my MacLeod Tartan.

On December 1st, we exchange small gifts for our "demiversary" and have behave much like we might on Valentine's day.

This tradition is pending for several reasons, but nevertheless: For New Year's Eve/New Year's Day/Hogmanay, when we have our own home, hopefully we can host the party complete with the First Footing Celebration. Perhaps we can host a potluck brunch and the first person to cross the threshold of our home with a dish is named the First footer. and we can give small gifts of salt, shortbread, whiskey or something Scottish and serve steak pie or stew.

BFMH: Single Serving Turkey Quiches

So after Thanksgiving I froze a good bit of the meat to be used later. Then Janet got these really great little tart dishes. I had a leftover pie crust still hanging out in the fridge and a dozen eggs. So it worked out that we made some quiches together!

Turkey Quiches

Ingredients

1 unbaked 9-inch pastry shell
1 1/4 cups diced, cooked turkey breast (about 6 ounces)
1/3 cup chopped onion
1 tablespoon butter
1 -1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (4 to 6 ounces)
3 eggs, slightly beaten
1 cup half-and-half or light cream (I used milk)
1/8 teaspoon salt
dash of ground red pepper
Directions

Bake the unpricked pastry shell in a 450 degree F oven for 4 to 5 minutes or until it just begins to puff. Remove from oven. Reduce oven temperature to 375 degrees F.

Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, cook turkey and onion in butter over medium-high heat until onion is tender, but not brown. Sprinkle cheese over bottom of prebaked shell. Spoon turkey mixture over cheese.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, the cream, the mustard, the salt and the red pepper. Pour over the cheese-turkey mixture.

Bake in the 375 degree F oven for about 30 minutes or until a knife inserted near center comes out clean. If necessary, cover edge of crust with foil to prevent overbrowning. Let quiche cool for 10 minutes before serving.

I didn't prebake the crust since we rolled it thin and divided it into 6 little pans. While it was a BIT soft and the eggs a BIT over cooked (Cooked them for 15 minutes at 400 degrees), they have succeeded at being delicious every morning (or dinner for Husband) that we have eaten them. Make these and make your life WAY easier on busy mornings.

Week 7 of #100daysofthanksgiving

Week 7

Day 43: 12/13: Nails and quality time with Sarah.

Day 44: 12/14: Theatre ad Dinner with the Hope Clan

Day 45: 12/15: Hair Trim and Gal Time

Day 46: 12/16: First Day of Hanukkah!

Day 47: 12/17: Getting better at doodles

Day 48: 12/18: Christmas Cookies!

Day 49: 12/19: One last visit with my sisters before Little Sister moves.

Christmas Craft: Wedding Invitation Ornament

I have seen this floating around on Pinterest and Etsy for a long time so I figured I should give it a whirl. This tutorial worked best for me except that I wrapped the strips of paper around a crochet hook instead of using the scissors to curl them. While it wasn't hard to execute, I think it has some room for improvement.

Give me MORE sparkle!

I think that I need to add some more ribbon to show off our wedding colors. I also need to add some gold glitter and to paint the top of the ornament as we used Gold (not the typical silver). Perhaps I will take out a few curly cues as you can't really see a lot of the "important" curlies due to crowding.

What do y'all think?

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

I wrote the above post and about 2 days later, I found some extra time at my friend Kimmy G's house before she cut my hair to try to improve upon it. Here is what I did:

Took out a few of the frivolous curls and then loosened a few of the more important ones in hopes to make them a bit more prominent. I added a TON more ribbon (I actually took a bit out before this picture) and some glitter into the ball. I sill need to paint the top of the ornament with Modge Podge and add glitter on it which hopefully I will get done and can add to the bottom of this post. :)

What do y'all think about the "improvements" I made on the original attempt?

How I am Packing for my 10 day trip home to STL

Y'all may recall my older post about how I pack for trips.

As we are going back to St Louis for my Dad, Kate, and Ben's birthdays, I am very greatly pleased to give y'all something a bit specific to help y'all visual what I pack.

10 Day Trips
Required number of Items/Outfits:

ITEMS: 2 Bottoms, 3 Tops, 2 Dress, 5 sets Undies, 1 PJs

OUTFITS: 5+ PJs: 1 Travel, 1 Fancy, 2 Everyday, 1 set of PJs, 1 Active Outfit

*Outfits appropriate for activity in the snow and rain with highs of 55 and lows of 25
**Activities ranging from Running, Sledding, Christmas Eve Service, and Christmas Parties

***Color Palate – Black with Grey and Blues plus Gold touches 

Packing List:

Dress – 2 – Navy Blue Dress (Fancy) and Bright Blue Cotton (Nice, but good for everyday)
T-shirt/Sweater – 3  – Grey Star Wars, Grey PAX, and Grey with Sparkles Sweater
Bottoms – 3 – Jeans, Running, and Blue Skirt
Leggings – 2–  Black Fleeced Lined and Back High Waisted Cotton

Tights – 1 –  Grey
Tank Top – 3 – Black, White, and Running

PJ Bottoms – 1 – Mickey Fuzzy

PJ Top – 1 – Scott Pilgrim vs The World T-shirt

Shoes – 2 –  Black Boots and Old Running Shoes (Sprayed with Never Wetted)

Bra – 1
Socks – 5 

Undies – 5

PLUS

Weather Appropriate Accessories:

Jacket – 1– Grey Wool

Scarf – 1–  Marigold

Hat – 1–  Grey

Gloves – 1–  Black

Thermal Top – 1 – Grey

Long Johns – 1–  Black

While I initially said I needed 6 outfits, as there is a washing machine available to me, I can really just get away with 4 (PJS, Fancy, Active, and Travel) as I will also have to pack all the presents and things for the crafts I want to do with my niece, G.K. If I feel like I can do without the extra clothes then I will go with 2 Dresses, 2 Tops, 1 Bottom, 1 Leggings , and 2 Tanks. We shall see how it works out.

For the first time in history, Husband and I will be checking a bag....(GOD FORBID!)

My other thought is that if there is any extra space, I try to squeeze is some clothes that would be appropriate for Late Spring - Late Summer to leave at the In Love's house since we will be living with them when we move back there. It will save a LITTLE bit of room in the cars I figure.

How do YOU pack for the holiday if you are traveling?

Master Chef Junior

So TV is a thing for me. I don't watch it a ton, but I most certainly enjoy it now that there is such thing as DVRs and Netflix etc. One show that I have learned about recently is Master Chef Junior.

It is like Master Chef but with kids aged 8 - 13. Like holy crap! They crazy impressive. An interesting article was pointed out to me about Master Chef Junior and I wanted to share some of it with y'all.

Excerpt 1
The joy of doing is more important than winning:

Unlike most reality shows, in which everyone constantly has their eye on the prize, the “Master Chef Junior” competitors really seem like they’re there for the love of cooking and the joy of learning, forging real friendships that aren’t premised on backstabbing and trying to take each other down. When Gordon Ramsay asked Logan last night why he came on the show, he didn’t say he came to win, he said, while fighting through (adorable) tears, that “he came to get better.” What a guy.

I wish all cooking shows could just keep this in mind. It is such an important thing to remember when you step in to the kitchen. I want to get better at my plating. Perhaps that will go on my 32 by 32 list.

Excerpt 2

Pastries are harder than mains:
Anybody who has ever seen a cooking competition show knows this to be true, but watching these kids struggle over layer cakes and cream pies really hits the point home. Baking is the worst. The. Worst.

Totally True. I am happy it isn't just me.

Just a short entry today. If you haven't seen this show, you should.

BFMH: Cinnamon Toast

I am aware that this is literally shoo in for easiest breakfast ever. It should also be a shoo in for one of the yummiest.

Cinnamon Toast

Ingredients

16 slices Bread (Whole Wheat is Great!)

2 sticks Salted Butter, Softened

1 cup Sugar (More to Taste)

3 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon

2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (More to Taste)

1/8 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (optional)

Preparation Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Smush softened butter with a fork. Dump in sugar, cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg, if using. Stir to completely combine.

Spread on slices of bread, completely covering the surface all the way to the edges.

Place toast on a cookie sheet. Place cookies sheet into the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Turn on the broiler and broil until golden brown and bubbling. Watch so it won't burn!

Remove from oven and cut slices into halves diagonally.

BOOM! All the yum!

Marvel at the simplisticness...

This is stupid easy to make and even easier to eat. I very much enjoyed the delights of this "Dish" and can only imagine how much simpler it will be to make when I have a toaster oven.

Week 6 of #100daysofthanksgiving

Week 6

Day 36: 12/6: Dog Beach with Janet and Molly.

Day 37: 12/7: Hanging out Kris Carr!

Day 38: 12/8: Date night with My Husband at the Candle Light Processional at Disneyland

Day 39: 12/9: Fettuccine With Janet and Molly.

Day 40: 12/10: Club 33

Day 41: 12/11: Gifts from Peru.

Day 42: 12/12: Pinkie Swear

Post Thanksgiving Ideas: 2 Weeks later (Turkey Salad and 7 Layer Dip)

So this will be the last installment of "What to make with Thanksgiving Leftovers" as we are about out of Leftovers. The first idea I have for you this time is a bit of a "No, duh, Sherlock" as all that is different is that you use Turkey instead of Chicken: Turkey Salad
Simply mix Turkey with Greek yogurt, leftover cranberries, celery, and chopped pecans to the consistency you like.  Enjoy as you would Chicken or Tuna Salad.

I totally forgot to take a picture. It was super yummy though.

The next recipe is a bit of a stretch, but I figured I would give it a try: 5 Layer Leftover Dip a la Rachel Ray (with no nutmeg)

5 Layer Leftover Dip
The original recipe calls for the following left overs with left over Cornbread or Rolls to dip into it:
Stuffing
Cranberry sauce
Turkey
Gravy
Mashed Taters

I took mine a bit more "Southwestern", if you will. Layers from Bottom to Top:
1 can Refried Beans
1 cups Mashed Potatoes (with a Little gravy mixed in)
1 1/2 cup Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt)
1 cup Cheddar Cheese
1 can Corn (or left over creamed corn or corn pudding)
2 cup (well) Shredded Turkey (with a little Taco Seasoning)
1/2 Salsa mixed with 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce (with 2 tablespoons minced Cilantro)
Use left over rolls or crackers or tortilla chips or veggies as dippers. Whatever you have on hand.

So I realized while I was prepping everything that there would not be enough regular Mashed Potatoes. Instead I used the sweet potatoes as we had a grip of those still. It turned out pretty good!

Other ideas that MIGHT still happen this year:
Rachel Sandwiches
I have Frozen Sauerkraut.....these also will probably happen for Husband's late night dinners the rest of this month before we leave.

French Fried Potato Balls
How could these be bad...? and I think I have just 1 measly cup of taters left....

Other Ideas I didn't try, but might next year:
Sweet Potato Brulee
BOOM! Leftover dessert! Especially the sweet potatoes that Kim makes.

Leftover Turkey (or Chicken) Tertazzini
This one looks really good, but I didn't feel right breaking my diet any more than I already had. Silly low carb lifestyle.

Cathchall Casserole
This one is still possibly going to happen, but no where near how the recipe suggests. I don't understand why you would add rice when you could easily make it a bread pudding...THAT'S IT! Thanksgiving Bread Pudding!

Thanksgiving Eggs Benedict
Benedict anything make me happy...these probably won't happen, but just wait until next year!

Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas
Duh.

Turkey, Cranberry, and Brie Grilled Cheese
Duh, again.

Thanksgiving Risotto
It is Risotto. Plus Sweet Root Veggies and Turkey. While I won't be making it this year, it will be well received next I think.

Bacon, Onion, Cheddar Cheese Mashed Potatoes with Eggs Cooked In
I might not have used this with the left overs from Thanksgiving, but there is a great chance this will be made some time during this winter season.

Turkey Monte Cristo
I have A) never made a Monte Cristo B) ever even eaten one so C) this needs to happen.

Pulled Turkey with Cranberry BBQ Sauce
I just want to make this in general.

Turkey Caesar Sandwich
Of course, this would be yummy...

Stuffing Wrapped in Bacon Bites
I am already planing on making bread pudding with the leftover stuffing plus bacon is too pricey. Other wise though, I am in.

No Bake Yummies: Crunchy Peanut Butter Cups

I wanted to make these bad boys a long time ago. Like back in September is when I found this recipe. but I FINALLY got a mini muffin tin which is what I have been wanting for this project.

Crunchy Peanut Butter Cups

Makes 8

Ingredients:
1/4 cup butter
3/4 cup peanut butter
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup semisweet or milk chocolate chips
1/4 cup milk
Sea salt

Method:
Line a  muffin tin with papers (you could also use a mini muffin tin if you prefer).

In a microwave safe bowl, melt the butter & peanut butter together for 45 seconds.  Stir until smooth.  Add graham cracker crumbs and sugar and mix to combine.  Distribute mixture evenly between the prepared muffin cups.  Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set peanut butter layer.

After the peanut butter has chilled, combine chocolate and milk in a microwave safe bowl and heat in 25 second intervals until chocolate is just melted. Stir until smooth. Distribute chocolate evenly over the top of the peanut butter layer. Sprinkle with sea salt and chill until firm, at least 30 minutes. Store covered in the fridge.

Here they are finished and in their new home!

The OH so quintessential side view...to small yet so yum.

Peanut Butter Bottoms

These little ditties weren't too hard at all and as they are no-bake, they kept the house cool during this "heat wave" we had here in LA the early December. It really isn't a heat wave, but I had 6 people in the house and the stove on so it was toasty in the little apartment. I also COMPLETELY forgot to add sea salt. Dang! Whelp, I could let them sit on the counter a while until they soften up again and then apply the salt, but they seem just fine with out in everyone else's opinion.

Until the next easy dessert....

When you have some Butternut Squash and want something meatless...Part 2

Part 2 of Meatless meals. All the butternut squash!

Butternut Squash and Duxelles Casserole

8 oz. fresh mushrooms or mushroom stems

2 shallots, coarsely chopped (¼ cup)

1 ½ tsp. butter

1 Tbs. finely chopped parsley

¼ tsp. ground black pepper

1 cup 1% low-fat milk

2 Tbs. all-purpose flour

1 clove garlic, minced

¾ cup shredded Gruyère cheese (3 oz.), divided

⅛ tsp. nutmeg

1 (2.5 lb.) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into ⅛-inch slices

1. Pulse mushrooms in food processor 20 times, or until finely chopped. Transfer to bowl. Place shallots in food processor; pulse 20 times, or until finely chopped. Transfer to same bowl.

2. Melt butter in skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and shallots, and season with salt, if desired. Cook 10 minutes, or until mushrooms have released their liquid, most liquid has evaporated, and shallots are lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Stir in parsley and pepper.

3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat 9-inch deep-dish pie pan or gratin dish with cooking spray.

4. Bring milk, flour, and garlic to a simmer in saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly. Cook 2 minutes, or until sauce is thick enough to coat back of spoon, whisking frequently. Whisk in 1/2 cup cheese and nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper, if desired.

5. Spread one-third squash in prepared pan. Top with 1/3 cup cheese sauce and half of mushroom mixture. Repeat layers, ending with cheese sauce. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese. Bake 45 minutes, or until squash is tender and top is browned. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

creamy yum yum

Fresh out of the oven.

Work LUNCH close up!

This is a definite yes. Not at all a full meal unfortunately, but as a side dish, it is a solid yes. 

It makes me wish yet again I had a mandolin as it took way to long to slice all the squash. It could have used a little more bechamel sauce, but I like my sauce. 

Until the next side dish...

 

BFMH: Post Thanksgiving Ideas: 2 Weeks later (Turkey Hash)

To another weekend has passed and this time I actually made Breakfast for Dinner a la Thanksgiving Leftovers. I give you, Turkey Hash!

Ingredients
6 baby potatoes, not used in Thanksgiving dinner, diced
1/4 of an onion, not used in Thanksgiving dinner, diced
1/2 of a bell pepper, not used in Thanksgiving dinner, diced
Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper
1 cup leftover turkey, not eaten at Thanksgiving dinner, shredded
4 eggs, not used in Thanksgiving dinner pie
Gravy, not eaten at Thanksgiving dinner (optional)
Cranberry Sauce, not eaten at Thanksgiving dinner (optional)
Method
Put the potato, onion, and bell pepper and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Saute and cover until potato are crisp and tender. Throw in turkey and allow to heat through with the veggies.
Scoop the potato mixture onto 4 plates, divided evenly. In the same pan as you cooked the hash in, fry up 4 eggs and top the potato mixture with them.
Enjoy as is (if you have a nice soft yolk) or, alternatively, top with left over gravy or cranberry sauce.

With Gravy!

No egg on this one, but a hearty "yes" to cranberries!

This came out really nicely and it came from my brain thoughts! How cool is that?

The gravy and/or cranberry sauce is needed in my opinion just because the potatoes were a bit dry without. Husband had it for a late night dinner (as he is prone to do when he is working) and he asked the following morning if there was more for him. I saved the rest of the leftover for him.

Because Love.

Week 5 of #100daysofthanksgiving

Week 5

Day 29: 11/29: I am thankful for the memories I have at the Field with Diane, Cindy, Leah, Devin, Rob, Alicia, Lakia, and Adam (to name a few). 

Day 30: 11/30: I am thankful to have inherited Christmas decor from my Grandma and that I am able to use it.

Day 31: 12/1: I am thankful for leftover that make my workday lunches exceedingly easy and yummy.

Day 32: 12/2: I am thankful for the rain that is so desperately needed during this time of severe drought in California.

Day 33: 12/3: I am thankful that I wasn't at work with the ceiling fell in. I am also thankful that there isn't a leak above my desk. I am ALSO thankful that we should be getting a new roof by the end of the week for those who are getting dripped on.

Day 34: 12/4: I am thankful for natural beauty I can find in the middle of a big city.

Day 35: 12/5: I am thankful for an amazing haircut that has been holding up over the last 9 months.

Post Thanksgiving Idea: Right on Time (Turkey Pot Pie Soup)

If you are like me, you have some leftovers from Thanksgiving still. This doesn't upset me one bit. I find that it is rare that I get tired of left overs, but perhaps that is because of the fact I doll them up in more that just repeat mini Thanksgivings and sandwiches. Today's Post Thanksgiving Idea is a simple one, especially if you make turkey broth with your turkey carcass as it is Turkey Pot Pie Soup!
I made this recipe up on the fly and figured that using the magic that is my Crockpot would increase the yumminess. Other Post Thanksgiving Ideas that I have done are: Mashed Potato Waffles with Turkey, Brie, and Cranberry and Turkey Cranchiladas.

Turkey Pot Pie Soup Recipe

Ingredients

3 cups homemade turkey broth

2 cups water

1 cup peas, frozen 

1 cup corn, frozen 

1/2 cup carrots , diced (I used the carrots that I cooked in the broth)

1 cup white or yellow onion, diced (I used the onion that I cooked in the broth)

1/2 cup celery, diced (I used the celery that I cooked in the broth)

3 cups potatoes, diced
1 tbsp sage

1 bayleaf 

1 tsp thyme

2 tsp parsley
1 tbs salt
2 tsp black pepper

3 cups turkey, shredded
4 tbsp of butter

2 1/2 cups milk

6 tbsp all-purpose flour

1/2 cup half and half

1 1/2 tsp lemon juice

Method

Put homemade turkey broth, water, peas, corn, carrots, onion, celery, potatoes, sage, bayleaf, thyme, parsley, salt, black pepper, and turkey. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

About 30 minutes before serving, in a medium saucepan set over medium heat, melt 4 Tbsp butter. Stir in flour and cook mixture, stirring constantly for 1 1/2 minutes (you need to do this to cook the flour, it makes quite a difference in flavor). While whisking slowly pour in milk and whisk vigorously to smooth lumps. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring mixture to a boil over medium high heat (to thicken it) while stirring constantly, then remove from heat and stir in cream. Pour and stir milk mixture into mixture in pot. Stir in lemon juice. Remove bay leaf and serve warm with a biscuit or roll.

Creamy, comfort food!

Before the Roux and Half and Half were added, it looked like this.

Gotta top it with some bread.

Husband was very happy with the outcome as was I. It was a very good use of the stewed veggies from the broth I had made the few days before as well as the Turkey meat that had come off the carcass while "brothing". This recipe really worked out well as I had everything to make it already in my kitchen. I usually have frozen corn and peas in my freezer

I attempted to make pie crust "lids" for the soup bowls, but they burnt. there was smoke everywhere. So even though we didn't have a nice warm fire to curl up next to, we did have that warm smokey scent.

Hurray for Leftovers Reinvisioned!