Thursday, October 25, 2012


Shanghai River Cruise and Hangzhou, China

Shanghai would not be complete without a night time river cruise.  The glittering skyscrapers display a  spectacular display of lights.  My eyes never rested.  Huangpu River, a branch of the lower Yangtze River, has an outstanding display of architecture flanking its banks.  The famous Oriental Pearl TV Tower, which is the tallest TV tower in Asia and the third highest in the world, is breathtaking.  The two suspension bridges on each side of the tower appear to arch over the tower and if you let you mind play, you will think you are seeing two dragons playing with a ball.

From Shanghai we took a day trip by train to Hangzhou.  The train ride in itself was an adventure.   The speed of the train was about 200 MPH and I do not believe that the train ever touched the tracks.  The seats were oh so comfy and stretched out like a recliner.  All too soon, the train pulled into the station.  Hangzhou, known for its scenery, is home to the famous West Lake, located in the western area of Hangzhou city.  West Lake is not only famous for its landscape, but it is also associated with many scholars, national heroes, and martyrs.  It is the epitome of Chinese culture.   In this scenic area, one can see the Six Harmonies Pagoda as well as the tomb of the famous General Yue Fei, who is considered a national hero.  The Temple of the Soul’s Retreat lies to the northwest and is noted as one of the most famous Buddhist Temples of China.  The temple can be traced back to 317 – 420 AD when according to legend, an Indian monk came to the area where he was inspired by the spiritual nature of the scenery. 

Tom and I could not resist a boat ride on the lake.  The lake is so tranquil and we could see a silhouette of the city high rises on the northeast horizon and mountains near and far surround the lake on three other sides.  Visitors can bike around the lake, walk or, as we did, take a short boat ride.  And, the three stone pagodas, acting like beacons and built over 800 years ago, are the centerpiece of the scenic spot called “Three Pools Mirroring the Moon”.    You can see the pagodas in the pictures as well at the building that holds the Legend of Lady or Madame White Snake.  The basic legend is that of a young scholar who falls in love with a beautiful woman, unaware that she is a thousand-year old white snake that has taken on human form.  A monk supposedly intervenes and cast the white snake into a deep well at Leifeng Pagoda.  Our friend Wing told us the story and I cannot match his story telling so I have just given a short version.

Next, we will travel to Hainan Island and Chengdu

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Catching up and China

Lots of things have happened since my last post here.  Firstly, perhaps the most dramatic change in my life, besides two children getting married and the addition of a new grandson this year, I retired.  Yes, I got tired of the hustle and bustle and the midnight maintenance windows and not having time to do diddly squat.  The weddings were in June and July (yes, a month apart) and little Wesley arrived in on Mother's Day.  Lots going on in 2012.  And, August 17, I hung up my Rock and Roll shoes after 24 3/4 years working for a telecommunications company in Atlanta.  My time there was great, I loved the people, especially my beautiful and gorgeous sister (well, she is my sister in my heart) India.  I miss her but I just met her at Costco yesterday, so all is well.  We will continue to meet and have our little lunch journies.  Yesterday, when she called, even though I am 30 minutes from Costco and my hair was wet from just getting out of the shower, I through it up in a ponytail and met her there.  Love my sis! 

So, anyway.  here is the first excerpt from a series of articles that I am writing on my visit to China.  I kept pinching myself while on the airplane to China.  No, not to stay awake but to say to myself, "I cannot believe that this girl from Larkinsville, Alabama is on her way to China.  Oh, yes!  And, I loved China.  Loved loved it!  And, I want to add that being retired, I am having to fight hard to do all of the things that I want to do.  Paint, write, wow!  I have completed several paintings since August so all is not lost.  And, for all of you retirees out there, keep the exercise up! 


My husband’s business travels takes him to many interesting places and when he asked if I wanted travel to China, I was elated.  I could just see Ingrid Bergman marching the Chinese children across The Great Wall as they sang “This Old Man”. (Ref. the movie “The Sixth Inn of Happiness”).   Too, I have always been fascinated with “The Last Emperor”.
 
I quickly spread the word among family and friends that I was going to China.  Their reaction was perhaps what one might expect.   Comments ranged from, “Really, China?” to “China is a communist country, right?”  Well, well well!

Friends and neighbors, I would hope that one day you would have the opportunity to visit China.  And, if you do, toss out any pre-conceived notions that you might have.  Keep an open mind and do not listen to others.  I want to tell you about my incredible journey.

Shanghai

We left Atlanta and some fourteen hours later, landed in Tokyo where we had access to an airlines Sky Lounge with food, laptops, Wi Fi.  That helped to erase the weariness of the long flight.  Shortly, we boarded our flight to Shanghai.  We landed around midnight which did not allow for much sightseeing between the airport and the hotel.  One thing that I did notice was that the highway was lit on both sides by street lights which was pretty cool.

We stayed in the fabulous Shangri-La Hotel East Pudong.  Upon our late arrival, we were greeted at the door with “Ni hao.”  After a good nights rest, I opened the curtains to a breathtaking view of the Shanghai Pudong skyline that towers over the Huangpu River.  We could see the Oriental Pearl Radio and TV Tower from our room.  It was the tallest structure in China until the Shanghai World Financial center was built.  At night the tower is lit in different LED sequences.

The wives of my husband’s business associates took me on a tour of the city.   Old City of Shanghai still has parts of the city wall which was built in 1554 in order to protect the town from raids by pirates.  The City God Temple is located in the center of the Old city.  Old city had to be my favorite of the day. 

We visited a local arts and crafts district where artisans displayed everything from Chinese paintings to beautiful QiPao pronounced “Chee Pow” which is the traditional Chinese dress. 

 I might add that the hospitality of these two ladies was beyond anything that I have experienced ever.  Their English was better than my Chinese and that is not saying a lot.  Thank goodness for the app that translates English to Chinese and Chinese to English.  Lunch was an incredible feast where my skills with chopsticks were put to the test.  By the time I left China, I could pick up an English pea with a chopstick.   We ate a fabulous lunch of fish soup and , of course, drank lots of tea. 


Stay tuned, Shanghai at night, coming next.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

The Larkinsville Shuffle

So, as many of you may or may not know, I am from a small town in Northeast Alabama called Larkinsville.  Larkinsville is near Scottsboro.  So, I was watching Dancing with the Stars out of sheer boredom the other night.  I made a comment that someone couldn't dance that was performing on the show.  So, Mr. Smarty Pants remarked, "you are one to talk, Ms. Larkinsville Shuffle.
" What?," I asked.
"You always dance the Larkinsville shuffle," he said as he made a hasty retreat downstairs back to whatever he was watching or doing.
Duh! 
 So, I have had  crazy lyrics going through my head about "The Larkinsville Shuffle". So, in an attempt to get this out of my head,  I decided to do a dump from brain to paper hopefully never to hear this again.

Larkinsville Shuffle?  WTH?
.

The Larkinsville Shuffle

Hey, hey, hey
Do the Larkinsville Shuffle
Come on Baby Get on the Floor
Take your time, take it real slow
Shake it now Baby, Twist it to the floor
Hey, Hey, Hey
Do the Larkinsville Shuffle
How low can you go...
Yeah, yeah, yea
Do the Larkinsville Shuffle...

Slide, Slide, SLide
Get on your Pony and Ride, Ride Ride
Do the Larkinsville Shuffle
Move it real slow
Whoa, whoa whoa
Do the Larkinsville Shuffle
Ah, Ah ah ha
twirl it now baby, twirl it some more, mo mo mo
SLide it to the left, slide it to the right
hitch hike baby, with all your might...
Yeah, yeah yeah
Do the Larkinsville Shuffle...
Whoa Whoa Whoa
Let's do it once more,,,,more more

Yee haw!!

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

The Bridge

So quite the controversy over whether or not to save a bridge.  Some might think of it as an eye sore.  Especially, as this bridge seems to block a lot of the view of the Tennessee River.  However, those that love history, love saving things, etc. want to save the bridge.  They do not want it torn down and sold as scrap metal.  And, some folks just don't give a tinkers damn either way.

But, me?  Well, I had a dream about that old weather beaten bridge.  I was driving from Atlanta to the Boro coming down the mountain..highway whatever and I always look forward to seeing the Tennessee River.  But, it was dark and I did not expect to see much.  The closer I got, I saw it. The NEW bridge.  Yes, it was about 10 PM.  And, the lights started at one end of the bridge and they lit up all over that bridge.  These lights sent shivers of diamonds into the Tennessee River.  I mean the River was sparkling like all of Elizabeth Taylor's jewels rolled into one.   And, that old bridge looked like a version of the Eiffel Tower.  And, as I neared the "new" way into the city, I saw dozens of cars parked everywhere.  And, low and behold.  There was an elevator that was slowly going to the top of that bridge.  To the very top.  I got dizzy in my dream just thinking about that.  The lights were on in that little platform like elevator and I saw a beautiful girl.  Oh, you know where I am going.  So, she got out of the elevator onto the platform (yes, the town had built a standing platform on top of the bridge) and I saw her standing there.  Then, the elevator went back down and up again.  I pulled over on the shoulder of the road and watched.  The girl and her beau got back into car/elevator and road back down and hand in hand, they walked over to a little chapel.  And, there they said their wedding vows.  Yes, they met on top of the bridge.  You know, Cary Grant got left at the Empire State Building and so did Tom Hanks and God only knows who else.  As they were on top of the platform, guess what began to play?  The Tennessee Waltz and the Rhett Butler looking handsome guy took her into his arms and they danced a bit.

Wow!  What a dream.  And, yes.  Before I awoke, I made a date to meet at the top of that bridge sometime in the future.  We shall see!!

Have You Seen Her

What is the name of the song that goes something like this, "have you seen her, I see her face everywhere I go, tell me, have  you seen her?"  And, then it goes on, "why oh why did she have to go?"

The words to that song remind me so much of a dear friend that I once knew.  But, she is gone, gone forever.  I regret so many things.  I guess life is like that.  Full of regrets.  Things that one cannot change or bring back.

I have so many good memories of her. I wish that I could remember everything but the hands of time have snarled its way through my mind and, too, some memories have simply been over written by other memories.

 I do remember the first time that we met.  I was moving into the first floor of an apartment building. I had my VW Beetle crammed full of boxes and was just lugging another up the steps when a car careened into the graveled parking lot.  Dust flew.  She got out of the car, a Pinto, and flipped her sunglasses onto the top of her head.   For those of you to  young to remember, a Pinto was a small car.  I immediately noticed that gorgeous mane of blonde hair.  She glanced towards me, flipped her hair to one side, and gave me what I would soon learn, was her signature grin.  It was kind of a quirk grin that made me think she was sizing me up.    My first thought was, "who the heck is this goddess?"  I opened the door to my apartment and continued to unload all of the boxes that a VW could hold.   

What can I say?  This beautiful girl became one of my very best friends.  I so admired her.  She had a voluptuous body.  I may have weighed ninety-eight pounds and their was nothing special about me, but this girl had flawless skin and her grin was ...awesome.  Everything about her was perfect.  I had freckles and strived to keep them covered with make-up.  I guess my freckles came from all of those years in the cotton fields.  Anyway, this girl and I went on trips together, Sunday afternoon drives. and shared all of our little secrets.  Oh, my.  And, we did have our share of secrets.

She was a bit more country than me, I will have to admit; however, we were both farm girls.  Lots of Sundays she would go with me to my Memma's for Sunday dinner.  We were a pair.  Once, someone told me that drinking wine would make you gain weight so, I drove to South Pittsburg and bought a bottle of..I am guessing Boone's Farm.  I began to have a glass every night.  Of course, after work, she would pop into my apartment to catch up.  After several nights of watching me "drink my one glass" of wine, she decided that I was an alcoholic and made me give it up.  Didn't like it anyway and started getting breakfast at Burger Chef/King.

I knew her hurts, her pains, and just everything.  She had the cutest younger brother and a beautiful mother that would often visit.  I knew when she was upset because she had that funny little grin and a quirky little look.  And, for some reason, when she was upset, she would always give a nervous little laugh.

Vacations, Sunday afternoon drives, fits of crying over who knows what came to an end.  I moved.  And, why, I do not know, but we lost touch.  And, then I moved away to another State.  And, that was that.  But, I still thought of her and my Mom would tell me about seeing her, talking to her, etc.
Then, years later,I was visiting relatives in Alabama. We were sitting around drinking coffee and chit chatting.  Someone had turned the TV on.  I think it was just to have more noise. And, then we heard something about breaking news and a plane crash.   I watched the news saddened by the tragedy.  I remember thinking about work and hoping that no one from work was on the flight. As, by this time, we had gathered around the TV and a plane from NYC to Paris had crashed in the ocean.  It was horrible.  I just couldn't believe it.  The phone rang and it was my cousin calling to tell me that my friend that I had known all of those years ago, was on the flight as was her young son. 
Later, I recall that her sister-in-law called to tell me about a planned memorial service.  I did not attend the service.  I don't know why.  I just did not.  And, today, I regret it.
This year will be sixteen years since that event.  I think of her often and especially this past week or two.  I feel her presence and I sometimes think she is trying to tell me something. 
And, there are times, that I will be somewhere, and I will catch a glimpse of a beautiful blond with long, blond hair and I swear...I saw her.  I think I saw her.  I turned to follow and she was gone. 
Sixteen years ago this year she got on that plane with her son. 

And, I say to myself, have you seen her?  Tell me, have you seen her?  Why of why did she have to go?

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Body Butter

You simply melt the shea butter and coconut oil together in a double boiler.  Add in the almond oil, or you an use Jojoba oil or olive oil.  Add essential oil of your choosing like lavendar or whatever you want (maybe orange).  Then, let solidify.  Then, whip or beat it with a mix and put into jars.

1 cup shea butter
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup almond oil (you can substitute olive oil, jojoba oil, any organic, liquid oil that is healthy.)

Monday, February 6, 2012

Reese's Cheesecake

For The Crust  Note:  I use graham crackers instead of Oreo cookies as I am not a big fan of that crust.

For The Filling

  • 2 lbs cream cheese , softened
  • 5 eggs , at room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup smooth peanut butter (not natural-style)
  • ½ cup whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 Reese's Peanut Butter cups , broken into small pieces

For The Topping


Directions:

  1. Please Note****Plan ahead--cheesecake needs to chill for at least 4 hours.
  2. To Make The Crust:.
  3. Combine crushed Oreo cookies and peanuts that have been ground in a food processor with the melted butter.
  4. Pat the crust mixture onto bottom and sides of a 10-inch springform pan.
  5. To Make The Filling:.
  6. Beat cream cheese in bowl of electric mixer until smooth.
  7. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  8. 8\Add sugar, peanut butter and cream; mix until smooth.
  9. Stir in vanilla, then fold in peanut butter cup pieces with a rubber spatula.
  10. Pour filling into prepared crust.
  11. Place springform pan into a larger baking pan
  12.  
  13.  
    Pour hot water into the larger pan so that the water comes 1 inch up the sides of the springform pan
  14.  
    Bake at 275°F 1-1/2 hours, or until firm and lightly browned.
  15.  
    For The Topping:.
  16.  
    Combine the sour cream and sugar and spread on the cheesecake.
  17.  
    Return the cake to the oven for 5 minutes.
  18. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for one hour.
  19.  
    You may run a knife along the edge of the cake to loosen it from the pan somewhat.
  20. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.Pinned Image
  21.  


Read more: http://www.food.com/recipe/ruggles-reeses-peanut-butter-cup-cheesecake-114907#ixzz1le91nNAY
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Friday, January 27, 2012

Peanut Butter Fudge Brownie Trifle

Creamy Peanut Butter Pie
Serves 10 to 12
8 ounces chocolate cookies
4 tablespoons butter, melted
4 ounces finely chopped chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped peanuts
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces cream cheese
1 cup creamy-style peanut butter
1 cup confectioner's sugar
1 – 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Add the cookies to the bowl of a food processor and pulse into fine crumbs.  Combine melted butter and cookie crumbs in a small bowl, and stir with a fork to mix well.  Press mixture into the bottom and 1-inch up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave.  Pour over bottom of cookie crust and spread to the edges using an off-set spatula.  Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the melted chocolate. Place pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Pour the heavy cream into a bowl and beat using a stand mixer or hand mixer until stiff peaks form.  Transfer to a small bowl and store in refrigerator until ready to use.  Place the cream cheese and peanut butter in a deep bowl.  Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy.  Reduce speed to low and gradually beat in the confectioner's sugar.  Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract and lemon juice. Increase speed to medium and beat until all the ingredients are combined and filling is smooth.
Stir in 1/3 of the whipped cream into the filling mixture (helps lighten the batter, making it easier to fold in the remaining whipped cream).  Fold in the remaining whipped cream.  Pour the filling into the prepared springform pan.  Drizzle the melted chocolate on top, if using, and refrigerate for three hours or overnight before serving.


    Next comes the Trfle

    1 batch of your favorite brownies, boxed or from scratch, cooled and cut into cubes
    1 large box (5-ounce) of instant chocolate pudding, prepared and chilled (this will most likely call for 3 cups of milk, nothing else)
    1 bag of peanut butter cups, chopped (I used Dove chocolate peanut butter Promises)
    2 cups heavy cream
    3-4 tablespoons granulated sugar, depending on your desired level of sweetness
    1 cup of creamy peanut butter
    1 cup of powdered sugar
    2 tablespoons milk
    8 ounces of whipped cream cheese, at room temperature
    In the bowl of an electric mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat heavy cream and sugar on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Transfer the whipped cream to an separate bowl and stick in the fridge until ready to use. I did not even clean the bowl of my electric mixer and just began mixing the peanut butter mixture.
    Add the peanut butter and cream cheese to the bowl and beat at medium speed, scraping down the sides a few times until mixture is creamy. Add in powdered sugar and mix until combined, then mix in 2 tablespoons of milk. Remove the whipped cream from the fridge and add 1 cup of it to the peanut butter, folding it in until the mixture turns lighter in color and is mostly combined.
    Grab your trifle dish and begin to layer your ingredients however you’d like. I did a layer of brownies, then peanut butter, then a handful of chopped peanut butter cups, chocolate pudding, whipped cream, and so on. I repeated it until I got to the top, then piped the remaining whipped cream on top and sprinkled the candy on. You really can’t go wrong with layering – just use a long spoon to serve!

    Thursday, January 26, 2012

    Home-Made Snicker Bars - Yes, That's What I am Talking About

    Oh, Oh, oh!!!  Yes, the big Oh! these look so yummy!!!

    bottom chocolate layer
    1 1/4 cups milk chocolate chips
    1/4 cup peanut butter
    Thoroughly grease you baking pan. Melt ingredients together in a saucepan or microwave, then pour into the baking dish and spread until even. Let cool and harden completely.
    nougat layer
    1/4 cup unsalted butter
    1 cup granulated sugar
    1/4 cup evaporated milk
    1 1/2 cups marshmallow fluff
    1/4 cup peanut butter
    1 1/2 cup salted peanuts chopped, roughly chopped
    1 tsp vanilla extract
    Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add in sugar and milk, stirring until dissolved and bring to a boil. Let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add in fluff, peanut butter and vanilla, stirring until smooth. Turn off heat and fold in peanuts, then pour over bottom chocolate layer. Let cool completely.
    caramel layer
    1 14-ounce bag of caramels
    1/4 cup whipping cream
    Combine ingredients in a saucepan over low heat. Let melt, stirring occasionally, until smooth – this took about 10 minutes for me. Pour over nougat layer and let cool completely.
    Top chocolate layer
    1 1/4 cups milk chocolate chips
    1/4 cup peanut butter
    Melt ingredients together in a saucepan or microwave, then pour over caramel and spread until even. Let cool and harden completely.
    Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving, then cut as desired. These can stay at room temperature, but they do get gooey. I like them refrigerated best!
    Note: for best results, buy one of the half-sheet aluminum cake pans at the grocery store. That way, you can pop the entire square out and cut from there!

    Wednesday, January 25, 2012

    Cranberry Anti-Aging Mask

    Cranberry sauce is a Thanksgiving staple and there are bound to be leftover berries to create this awesome anti-aging facemask by Erika Katz, beauty expert and author of Bonding Over Beauty, a great book for mothers and daughters.
    You’ll need:
    1 cup fresh cranberries
    1 cup seedless red grapes
    2 tsp grapefruit juice
    1 envelope unflavored gelatin
    Directions:
    Mix ingredients until the mixture becomes paste-like. Cover and refrigerate for 45 minutes and let it thicken. Remove from the fridge and let sit about 10 minutes. Spread the mixture on clean, dry skin, avoiding the eye area. Relax for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
    The benefits of the mask come from the fruit acid, which acts as a gentle exfoliant; the grapefruit juice acts as a toner; and the cranberries are a rich antioxidant harboring a one-two punch of vitamins A and C to help with collagen production.

    Friday, January 20, 2012

    Peanut Butter Cookies - Soft Recipe

    Oh My!  These look like Lou Hall's Peanut Butter Cookies...from back in the day when school lunches were awesome.
    Soft Peanut Butter Cookies
    (adapted from Epicurious)
    • 1 1/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
    • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
    • 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter (natural/unsweetened)
    • 1 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
    • 1  large egg, at room temperature
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 cup peanut butter chips

    1. Preheat the oven to 350 and grease some cookie trays.
    2. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    3. In a mixer's bowl cream together the butter, sugar, peanut butter, and egg until well combined then add the vanilla extract
    4. With a wooden spoon or the mixer on a low setting mix the flour mixture in with the peanut butter mixture in three additions until just combined.
    5. Roll out 1.5 tbsp balls of cookie dough and gently flatten with a fork.
    6. Bake for ten minutes, rotating the cookie sheets after five minutes. Let cool on the tray until firm enough to move to a cooling rack.

    P1240160

    How is awesome is this? Parmesan or Cinnamon Bites

    Take a Texas size Rhodes roll that has been thawed.
    Roll it out in a four inch rope.
    Cut in four sections.
    I got tired of this method.
    so I simplified even more.
    Take your roll, and cut horizontally and vertically.
    You have four pieces.
    You will need:
    as well as:
    Once your bites are all cut,
    place on a large greased baking sheet.
    Let rise until double in size.
    Like this . . .
    Bring some water to boil in a large pot.
    Prepare a Baking sheet with a clean towel and Paper towels on top.
    Like this:
    Heat your oven to 375 Degrees.
    Plop about 10 bites into that boiling water.
    Toss gently so that all sides are shocked with the water.
    You will boil for about 45 seconds.
    Remove from water with a slotted spoon.
    Let drain on paper towels.
    Don’t worry if a few of them shrivel up funny.
    They will recover nicely in the oven!
    Remove them carefully from the paper towels.
    Place on greased baking sheet.
    Bake at 375 degrees for about 15 minutes.
    Let them bake until they are a nice golden color.
    like this . . .
    Roll in Parmesan and sprinkle with garlic and Kosher Salt.
     Oh yum!
    or do this:
    Use that Cinnamon and Sugar mixture.
    and this:
    You’ll be too busy eating and dipping to watch the big game!
    PRETZEL BITES
    Texas size Rhodes Frozen roll dough
    *as many as you like – each roll makes four bites
    coarse salt, parmesan, garlic, cinnamon & sugar
    Vanilla glaze (optional)
    Take a thawed roll.  Cut it in four equal sections.  Place dough bites on greased sheets. I placed five across and five down on large baking sheets.  Cover with plastic wrap that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray, and let dough rise until double in size. (about 35-45 minutes) Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil.  When dough has risen, plop about 10 pieces into the boiling water, tossing gently for about 45 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon, and place bites on paper towels to drain slightly.  Move bites to greased baking sheets, and bake at 375 degrees for about 15 minutes or until done and golden brown. 
    Brush bites with melted butter, sprinkle with Kosher or Sea Salt, garlic and toss in Parmesan cheese.  You can also make Cinnamon and Sugar bites. Make a mixture of Cinnamon and sugar:  About 1 cup sugar and 1 1/2 tsp. of cinnamon, and mix together well. After you butter the pretzel bites, toss in cinnamon and sugar mixture.
    You can serve the Parmesan Pretzel bites with a cheddar dip, and the Cinnamon and Sugar Pretzel bites with Vanilla glaze.  So yummy . . . so simple!
    VANILLA GLAZE
    1 cup powdered sugar
    2 tablespoons milk
    1 tablespoon melted butter
    1 tsp. vanilla extract.
    Combine sugar, milk, butter and vanilla and mix well. 
    CHEDDAR DIP
    1 Tablespoon butter
    1 Tablespoon all purpose flour
    1 cup milk
    1 1/2  to 2 cups of grated Cheddar Cheese.
    Melt the butter in a med. size saucepan over medium heat.  Add the flour and stir until blended, and
    butter has turned lightly golden brown.  Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until thickened slightly.  Remove from heat and stir in the Cheddar Cheese until smooth and all of the cheese has melted.  Season with salt and pepper.  Shake a few red pepper flakes into sauce for added zing!
     
    I found the above on Pinterest.com and it is from Get off your butt and bake.

    Coconut Bar Lotion

    These bars contain coconut oil & shea butter which will hydrate and heal the skin absolutely 100% naturally!The idea behind these babies is that they melt gently when they come in contact with your own body heat.  Did you know that coconut oil is also said to help prevent sun burns & sun damage? Apparently that’s what the Jamaicans use.


    Coconut oil, shae butter & beeswax pellets
    Here’s what you’ll need: 
    4 o.z beeswax pellets
    4 o.z shea butter
    5 o.z coconut oil melted (coconut oil melts at 76 degrees)
    Glass measuring cup
    Mixing bowl
    Double broiler
    Mini cup cake pan or  mold of your choice
    What to do:
    Ingredients
    1. In a large heat safe mixing bowl, add the beeswax, coconut oil & shae butter.
    Double broiler
    2. Make a double broiler. To do so, fill a large pot with water and place it on the stove over medium heat, as if you were going to cook pasta. The steam from the water will gently melt your ingredients.
    3. Set your mixing bowl with all three ingredients on top of the pot filled with water.
    Melted ingredients
    4. Let the ingredients melt, stir occasionally.
    5. Pour into mini muffin tin or metal mold of your choice. If you wanted more of a bar shape, you could use a mini loaf pan. I was also reading that people used Tetra pak cartons, like the cartons broth comes in. Simply clean the carton out well & cut in half and pour the mixture according to how thick you would like the bar to be.
    Lotion bar mixture in mini muffin pan.
    After these hardened, I put them in the freezer for a bit. Then I flipped them onto foil (I ran out of parchment paper) and they popped right out of the muffin tin.
    Lotion bars
    Unbelievably easy. So dang smart!
    The best thing about making your own anything, is always that you know exactly what is in it! No parabens, phthalates or toxic chemicals here!  Make sure to store away from heat. An old Altoids tin or something similar would be best. I’m going to store most of these in the freezer until I find something to tote them in. By the way, I spent less than $25 on the beeswax & shea butter. The beeswax was $15 for 16 o.z, so I’m sure you can make these for cheaper. Making these is definitely a must! 

    Mongolian Beef Recipe

    From Pink Bites as found on Pinterest.com...yes please!!

    Mongolian Beef Recipe:
    makes 2 servings
    You will need:

    1 lb of flank steak, thinly sliced crosswise
    1/4 cup of cornstarch
    3 teaspoons of canola oil
    1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger (about 1/2 inch piece)
    1 tablespoon of chopped garlic (about 2 -3 large cloves)
    1/2 cup of water
    1/2 cup of soy sauce (I use low sodium)
    1/2 cup brown sugar
    1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
    3 large green onions, sliced crosswise into thirds


    Prepare the meat:
    First, make sure the steak slices are dry (pat them dry) and mix them with the corn starch. Using your hands or a spoon, move them around to make sure all pieces are coated. Place beef slices in a strainer and shake off excess corn starch (see picture bellow).
    Make the sauce:
    Heat half of the oil in a large wok at medium-high and add the garlic and ginger. Immediately add the soy sauce, water, brown sugar and pepper flakes. Cook the sauce for about 2 minutes and transfer to a bowl. Don't worry if the sauce doesn't look thick enough at this point. The corn starch in the beef will thicken it up later. 
    Cook the meat and assemble dish:
    Turn the heat up and add the remaining oil to the wok. Add the beef and cook, stirring until it is all browned (this is a quick thing). Pour the sauce back into the wok and let it cook along with the meat. Now you can choose to cook it down and reduce the sauce or leave it thinner. Add the green onions on the last minute so the green parts will stay green and the white parts crunchy.
    Serve it hot with rice.


    mongolian prepUse a strainer to help shake off excess corn starch from beef. They should be lightly coated, not over coated with corn starch.
      


    monolian 2

    Snickerdoodle Cupcakes -

    Pinned Image
    Cakes:
    1 ½ cup all purpose flour
    1 teaspoon baking powder
    ¼ teaspoon salt
    ½ teaspoon cinnamon
    ½ cup melted butter, cooled
    1 ¼ cup sugar
    2 eggs
    1 teaspoon vanilla
    ¼ teaspoon almond extract
    ¾ cup whole milk*
    ¼ cup cinnamon sugar

    Cinnamon Vanilla Buttercream:
    1 stick butter softened
    3 cups powdered sugar
    ½ teaspoon vanilla
    1 teaspoon cinnamon
    3 Tablespoons milk







    Directions:
    1.     Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
    2.    Sift together flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.
    3.    In a separate bowl, beat sugar and cooled butter until light and fluffy.  Then add eggs, vanilla, almond extract and milk. Mix until well blended. 
    4.    Combine dry and wet ingredients and mix until smooth. 
    5.    Spoon into cupcake liners and bake for 18-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. 
    6.   When the cupcakes come out of the oven, brush the tops with butter and then roll them in cinnamon sugar. 
    7.    Buttercream:  Beat butter until light and fluffy.  Add 2-3 cups powdered sugar (taste along the way) and beat for 4-5 minutes.  Add vanilla and cinnamon.  Add milk to loosen.
    8.   Top cupcakes with buttercream when cooled.  

    *I didn’t have whole milk, so I just used ¾ cup 1% and melted a little extra butter.  

    Felt Name Book - for the Babies - Pinterest.com

    Materials Needed:
    - Sheet of Wonder-Under (can be found next to the interfacing at your local fabric store)
    - Felt pattern pieces (already cut and ready to go)
    - Iron/ ironing board
    - Press cloth (I either use a thin washcloth or a thin dish towel) 
    - scissors (I use paper scissors to cut the Wonder-Under, NOT my cloth-only scissors)
    - pencil

    The How-To:
    1. Lay out your felt pattern pieces on your page the way you want it to look once it's all finished. 


    2. Pull out your Wonder-Under. Notice that your Wonder-Under has two different sides, a shiny rough side, and a more matte-looking smooth side. Place the Wonder-Under with the shiny rough side facing DOWN.  


    3. Take all your felt pattern pieces and flip them so that the RIGHT side is facing DOWN on the Wonder-Under. Trace around all your pattern pieces. This doesn't have to look pretty or be precise.


    4. Once you have all the pieces traced you are going to begin cutting them out. Don't bother cutting on the line though, cut about 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch INSIDE the line. You want the pieces of Wonder-Under to be slightly smaller than the pieces of felt. It makes it much easier to peel the Wonder-Under off the back of the felt!

    5. Now it's time to iron the Wonder-Under to the felt! To do this place the shiny rough side of the Wonder-Under to the WRONG side of the felt pattern piece. Press for 5-8 seconds with a hot, dry iron. Let cool. Repeat for all your felt pieces.


    6. Next, carefully peal the Wonder-Under off the back of the felt. Position each of your pieces onto your page with the fusible web side DOWN. Cover with a damp press cloth and then press firmly for 10-15 seconds with a hot iron. Repeat, lifting and overlapping the iron until all pieces are fused. Remove press cloth and iron the page to dry excess moisture.  

    NOTE: Rather than pressing all the pieces down at the same time I often do one piece at a time so that I can make sure that they get fused in the correct spot. I'm always worried that if I fuse too many of the pieces at once, something might shift a little and come out funny looking. 


    7. Once all your pieces are fused, admire your work and start embellishing!


    Thursday, January 19, 2012

    Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

    1 cup peanut butter, 1/2 cup white sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 egg. (You can use 1 cup white sugar, but I wanted the mix.) Mix well and place in fridge for 15 minutes so they are easier to work with. Grease a cookie sheet with Pam. (I used a stone cookie pan...works FABULOUSLY.) Roll into a half dollar sized ball and make criss cross pattern with a fork. 350 for 15 minutes and viola!!! It can't get easier than this.

    The easiest and best peanut butter cookies I've ever made. 1 cup peanut butter, 1/2 cup white sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 egg. (You can use 1 cup white sugar, but I wanted the mix.) Mix well and place in fridge for 15 minutes so they are easier to work with. Grease a cookie sheet with Pam. (I used a stone cookie pan...works FABULOUSLY.) Roll into a half dollar sized ball and make criss cross pattern with a fork. 350 for 15 minutes and viola!!! It can't get easier than this.

    Pink Panties - Pinterest.com

    Pink Panties ! Ingredients A TUB OF COOL WHIP A BOTTLE OF YOUR FAVIROTE VODKA 1 CAN OF FROZEN PINK LEMONADE ICE A BLENDER CUPS ---Hmm this does sound good.  Gotta try it.  But, WOW...a bottle of Vodka?
    Pinned Image

    WD - 40 Uses - as found on Pinterest.com

    WD-40 USES:           1. Protects silver from tarnishing.      2. Removes road tar and grime from cars.      3. Cleans and lubricates guitar strings.      4. Gives floors that 'just-waxed' sheen without making them slippery.      5. Keeps flies off cows. (I love this one!)      6. Restores and cleans chalkboards.      7. Removes lipstick stains.      8. Loosens stubborn zippers.      9. Untangles jewelry chains.      10. Removes stains from stainless steel sinks.      11. Removes dirt and grime from the barbecue grill.      12. Keeps ceramic/terra cotta garden pots from oxidizing.      13. Removes tomato stains from clothing.      14. Keeps glass shower doors free of water spots.      15. Camouflages scratches in ceramic and marble floors.      16. Keeps scissors working smoothly.      17. Lubricates noisy door hinges on vehicles and doors in homes.      18. It removes black scuff marks from the kitchen floor! Use      WD-40 for those nasty tar and scuff marks on flooring. It doesn't      seem to harm the finish and you won't have to scrub nearly as hard to      get them off. Just remember to open some windows if you have a lot      of marks.      19. Bug guts will eat away the finish on your car if not removed      quickly! Use WD-40!      20. Gives a children's playground gym slide a shine for a super      fast slide.      21. Lubricates gear shift and mower deck lever for ease of      handling on riding mowers...      22. Rids kids rocking chairs and swings of squeaky noises.      23. Lubricates tracks in sticking home windows and makes them      easier to open..      24. Spraying an umbrella stem makes it easier to open and close.      25. Restores and cleans padded leather dashboards in vehicles,      as well as vinyl bumpers.      26. Restores and cleans roof racks on vehicles.      27. Lubricates and stops squeaks in electric fans      28. Lubricates wheel sprockets on tricycles, wagons, and      bicycles for easy handling.      29. Lubricates fan belts on washers and dryers and keeps them      running smoothly.      30. Keeps rust from forming on saws and saw blades, and other tools.      31. Removes splattered grease on stove.      32. Keeps bathroom mirror from fogging.      33. Lubricates prosthetic limbs.      34. Keeps pigeons off the balcony (they hate the smell).      35. Removes all traces of duct tape.      36. Folks even spray it on their arms, hands, and knees to      relieve arthritis pain.      37. Florida 's favorite use is: 'cleans and removes love bugs      from grills and bumpers.'      38. The favorite use in the state of New York , WD-40 protects      the Statue of Liberty from the elements.      39. WD-40 attracts fish. Spray a little on live bait or lures      and you will be catching the big one in no time. Also, it's a lot      cheaper than the chemical attractants that are made for just that      purpose. Keep in mind though, using some chemical laced baits or      lures for fishing are not allowed in some states.      40. Use it for fire ant bites. It takes the sting away      immediately and stops the itch.      41. WD-40 is great for removing crayon from walls. Spray on      the mark and wipe with a clean rag.      42. Also, if you've discovered that your teenage daughter has      washed and dried a tube of lipstick with a load of laundry, saturate      the lipstick spots with WD-40 and rewash. Presto! The lipstick is      gone!      43. If you sprayed WD-40 on the distributor cap, it would      displace the moisture and allow the car to start.                P.S. The basic ingredient is Fish Oil

    WD-40 USES: 1. Protects silver from tarnishing. 2. Removes road tar and grime from cars. 3. Cleans and lubricates guitar strings. 4. Gives floors that 'just-waxed' sheen without making them slippery. 5. Keeps flies off cows. (I love this one!) 6. Restores and cleans chalkboards. 7. Removes lipstick stains. 8. Loosens stubborn zippers. 9. Untangles jewelry chains. 10. Removes stains from stainless steel sinks. 11. Removes dirt and grime from the barbecue grill. 12. Keeps ceramic/terra cotta garden pots from oxidizing. 13. Removes tomato stains from clothing. 14. Keeps glass shower doors free of water spots. 15. Camouflages scratches in ceramic and marble floors. 16. Keeps scissors working smoothly. 17. Lubricates noisy door hinges on vehicles and doors in homes. 18. It removes black scuff marks from the kitchen floor! Use WD-40 for those nasty tar and scuff marks on flooring. It doesn't seem to harm the finish and you won't have to scrub nearly as hard to get them off. Just remember to open some windows if you have a lot of marks. 19. Bug guts will eat away the finish on your car if not removed quickly! Use WD-40! 20. Gives a children's playground gym slide a shine for a super fast slide. 21. Lubricates gear shift and mower deck lever for ease of handling on riding mowers... 22. Rids kids rocking chairs and swings of squeaky noises. 23. Lubricates tracks in sticking home windows and makes them easier to open.. 24. Spraying an umbrella stem makes it easier to open and close. 25. Restores and cleans padded leather dashboards in vehicles, as well as vinyl bumpers. 26. Restores and cleans roof racks on vehicles. 27. Lubricates and stops squeaks in electric fans 28. Lubricates wheel sprockets on tricycles, wagons, and bicycles for easy handling. 29. Lubricates fan belts on washers and dryers and keeps them running smoothly. 30. Keeps rust from forming on saws and saw blades, and other tools. 31. Removes splattered grease on stove. 32. Keeps bathroom mirror from fogging. 33. Lubricates prosthetic limbs. 34. Keeps pigeons off the balcony (they hate the smell). 35. Removes all traces of duct tape. 36. Folks even spray it on their arms, hands, and knees to relieve arthritis pain. 37. Florida 's favorite use is: 'cleans and removes love bugs from grills and bumpers.' 38. The favorite use in the state of New York , WD-40 protects the Statue of Liberty from the elements. 39. WD-40 attracts fish. Spray a little on live bait or lures and you will be catching the big one in no time. Also, it's a lot cheaper than the chemical attractants that are made for just that purpose. Keep in mind though, using some chemical laced baits or lures for fishing are not allowed in some states. 40. Use it for fire ant bites. It takes the sting away immediately and stops the itch. 41. WD-40 is great for removing crayon from walls. Spray on the mark and wipe with a clean rag. 42. Also, if you've discovered that your teenage daughter has washed and dried a tube of lipstick with a load of laundry, saturate the lipstick spots with WD-40 and rewash. Presto! The lipstick is gone! 43. If you sprayed WD-40 on the distributor cap, it would displace the moisture and allow the car to start. P.S. The basic ingredient is Fish Oil

    Southern Tea Cakes

    I remember when I was growing up, my Granddaddy's Sister, Aunt Nellie, would come to visit.  All of us kids would go crazy when we saw a car pull up in front of my grandparents old, southern house.  We knew 1) that Aunt Nellie was a strict disciplinarian and she would make us mind and 2) she was the best cook in the world.  She made the best tea cakes.  We kids (all of my cousins) would come home from school and as we crossed the railroad tracks to Granddaddy and Memma's house, we could smell those tea cakes as they baked in the oven.  Aunt Nellie was an old maid school teacher.  To this day, I have the old school bell that she kept on her desk to ring and let the kids know that it was either time to eat or time for recess.  Aunt Nellie has been gone for way too many years, but she will never be forgotten.

    4 cups all-purpose flour
    2 teaspoons baking powder
    1 teaspoon baking soda
    2 eggs
    2 cups sugar
    1/2 cup buttermilk
    2 sticks butter, softened
    1 teaspoon vanilla
    Sift flour, baking powder and soda.
    Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. This is certainly different from most cookie recipes. The butter and sugar aren’t creamed first. Everything goes into the mixing bowl together after the dry ingredients are sifted. The dough will be sticky so you will need to generously flour your surface before turning out the dough.
    Place the dough on the floured surface and keep adding flour until the dough loses its stickiness. Divide, wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least one hour in the refrigerator. I divided the dough in half, but the next time I will divide in fourths. The tea cakes turn out better and keep their shape if you don’t let the dough warm up prior to baking.
    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and take out your dough but only the part that you are going to use. Let the rest stay in the refrigerator.
    Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inches thick. Cut with a small juice glass or a Vienna sausage can. I don’t think conventional cookie cutters will work right.
    Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes. I baked for the full 12 minutes and they were perfect. Cool on a rack and then store in a jar.

    Guacamole Grilled Cheese Sandwich

    Yield: 2 sandwiches
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
    The guacamole takes this grilled cheese sandwich to a whole new level of goodness.  This is from "TwoPeasandtheirIPOD.com found on Pinterest.com...It looks so so delicious.

    Ingredients:

    To make the guacamole:
    2 ripe avocados
    1/2 small onion, minced
    1 clove garlic, minced
    1 small jalapeño, stems and seeds removed, minced
    2 tablespoons cilantro leaves, finely chopped
    1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
    1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
    A dash of freshly grated black pepper
    1 Roma tomato, chopped
    4 slices crusty white bread
    4 slices Cheddar cheese
    Butter, for buttering bread

    Directions:

    1. To make the guacamole-cut avocados in half. Remove seed. Scoop out avacado from the peel, put in a large bowl. Using a fork, mash the avocado. Add the onion, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt and pepper. Stir until well combined. Add the chopped tomato and stir.
    2. Heat a pan or griddle to medium-high heat. Spread desired amount of guacamole on both slices of bread then top with cheese. Butter outer slices of bread and grill on one side for about 2 minutes or until golden and crispy. Flip the sandwich and grill until golden brown. Make the other sandwich the same way and serve warm.