Home....Where My Story Begins

2011-04-14T21:30:00.001-04:00

2010-12-22T22:45:00.001-05:00

Decorating Office for Buckeye Spirit!

2010-09-19T22:03:00.001-04:00

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Decorating with Scarecrows

2010-09-18T18:42:00.007-04:00

Our Weekly Craft Get-Together at Marla's House...The creation of yard scarecrows. What a fun way to spend the evening...Wanted to share some pictures...If you're driving through Byesville, hope you drive by to see our yards decorated. The directions for making the scarecrows were found on Simply Prim web site. If you want to see a Great Prim Site - check it out. Lots of great decorating ideas found here.

Nonnie's fun loving little guy -

My Primitive Pumpkin Face...

Marla's Sun Flower Friend...Awesome Porch Decorations.

Old Road Primitives Fall Give Away

2010-09-08T22:27:00.008-04:00

Kim, at Old Road Primitives is having a give away! This adorable Fall Meadow Mouse n Witch Hat is up for grabs. Yesterday, I purchased 6 of her awesome patterns and have already started my first one...Of course I couldn't wait, to decorate my house with this little critters.

Come back throughout fall to see what the patterns turn out to look like.

To sign up for Kim's drawing...Click on the title above, it will take you to her blog!

2010-09-06T18:31:00.004-04:00

I started decorating outside for Fall today, (pictures to follow - later).

Fall is my favorite time of year!

Let the Fall Season begin!!!

Ohio State Football

Campfires at the lake and the smell of the wood burning

Chili Cook Off at the lake

Fall leaves

Fall decorations

Pumpkin, Spice and Cinnamon, Fall Candles (need I say more)

Halloween -

Watching Tyler Trick or Treat!

Jim & Cheryl's Home

2010-08-29T21:55:00.005-04:00

I wanted to share the beautiful garden's Cheryl, (sister - in-law), planted around her house.

Cheryl has created one of the most beautiful homes. Hope you enjoy the visit and much as I did photographing the amazing arrangements.

This free photo collage created with Smilebox

Troy's Baptism

2010-08-15T20:43:00.002-04:00

Please remember to turn off my play list to hear the music on the smile box.

Customize your own picture slideshow

Are You Ready for Some Football!!!

2010-08-12T21:12:00.011-04:00

OH - IO

We're from Ohio so of course we love Football!!! I would love to say my whole family bleeds scarlet and grey...That is so far from the truth... I love the Buckeye's, as does my daughter - who also bleeds blue and yellow for Akron University - Where she was a Varsity Cheerleader for the Zips. My husband, and 2 Sons are Notre Dame fans. It's not right being from Ohio and not being a huge Buckeye Fan. Takes all the fun out of Saturday Football, when I'm the only one cheering! This year however, I will root for the underdog, when OHIO University enters the Shoe! My son Jeremy's Alma Mater!

Getting ready for Saturday Afternoon - I'll kick it off with:

Buckeye Fudge Puddles:

Ingredients:

Peanut Butter Cookie Dough - Use the pre-shaped 12 to a package. Cut each in half and roll into ball (Will have 24 cookie balls)

1 cup Reese's Peanut Butter Chips

1 cup Hershey's Milk Chocolate Chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line mini muffin tins with mini cupcake liners. Put a cookie ball into each slot. Bake for 10 - 12 minutes. When you take out of the oven press down in the center of each cookie to form a cup. Melt the chips together in microwave for 1 minute - mix well - might have to melt 25 seconds longer - mix until smooth. Pour a spoonful into each cookie cup. Set until solid. Enjoy!

Marinara Meatball Subs:

My New Favorite Sandwich - Perfect for Game Day!

(I'll post pic in a couple days)

Ingredients:

2 lbs lean hamburger
1 tsp. garlic
salt
pepper
1 cup bread crumbs
1 cup milk

Mix the above ingredients together. - Form into medium size meatballs.

In a frying pan: Add 2 Tablespoon Olive Oil and chopped medium onion. Fry onion until tender.
Brown Meatballs on both sides. Place in crockpot. Pour 2 regular size Prego Marinara Sauce over the meatballs. Cook 1 hour on high, reduce to low and simmer until done. Place 2 meatball on sub bun lined with provolone cheese. Enjoy!

List of ingredients needed:
2 lbs. hamburger
1 medium onion
garlic
pepper
salt
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup milk
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 medium onion
2 jars Prego Marinara Sauce
provolone cheese
Sub buns - can also use King Hawaiian Sweet Dinner Rolls - for single serving.

Original Version - Pioneer Woman Cooks. - I've Tweaked it - to work for me!

My new toy!

2010-08-10T08:27:00.003-04:00

I'm growing older, but not up!

My metabolic rate is pleasantly stuck!

Let the winds of time blow over my head!

I'd rather die while I'm living...Then live while I'm dead!

Joel riding my new toy...I'm getting more daring and now go 47 miles an hour!!! Love it!

2010-08-02T07:17:00.001-04:00

Ho Ho Cake - Christmas In July

2010-07-25T20:44:00.002-04:00

In Honor of Christmas in July - I wanted to share a Ho Ho Cake Recipe.

1 Chocolate Cake Mix
Mix according to directions and bake in 10 x 15 pan

Filling:
5 Tbsp. flour
2 1/2 c. milk

Cook until thickened cool. Add:

1 c. sugar
1/2 c. crisco
1/2 c. margarine

Cream and add to flour mixture. Beat until fluffy. Cake should be warm when you pour the white filling on.

Frosting:
1/2 c. margarine
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
3 pkgs pre-melted chocolate (unsweetened)
2 1/2 Tbsp. hot water
3 c. powdered sugar

Melt margarine and add the rest of the ingredients and beat well. Ice cake when it's cold.

Remembering a High School Favorite:

2010-07-18T20:33:00.006-04:00

Leisa Arnold - a Facebook Friend, I went to High School with - posted a recipe her mom had for Lunch at Meadowbrook High School. It was always a Favorite of mine.

Meadowbrook High School - Peanut Butter Cookies

Recipe from Leisa Arnold -

1 stick Real Butter

3/4 cup brown sugar

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 egg

3/4 cup peanut butter

1 tsp. vanilla

1/8 tsp. salt

1 tsp baking soda

2 cups all purpose flour

Bake at 350 degrees 8-10 minutes.

Tall Ships

2010-07-14T21:41:00.006-04:00

Lake Erie

The Bounty - Pirate Ship

A little pirate - Tyler

A Real Mess Up!!!!

2010-07-14T21:29:00.004-04:00

This is my first attempt at making Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups. Obviously, it didn't work!

I love to get Cookie Cups at the Mall...I've been searching for awhile, for the filling...Last night, I searched on Nestle and low and behold a recipe for Cookie Cups. What I thought would be, one of the easiest cookies to make, has turned into a pile of a mess. Getting them out of the pan was not an easy task...I ripped the little cups to pieces. My loss - Bob and Jeremy's gain.

I greased the pan like they said, I baked them like it said and I let them cool, like they said.

My next attempt, just came out of the oven...Mini Cupcake Cups were used this round...I'll update more later!

My Obsession Begins!

2010-07-13T19:13:00.002-04:00

School Supplies have hit the stores!!!! I hate to admit it, but I love it!!

This gives me the chance to check out all the new pens and planners. Two of my favorite things.

Pilot G2 is always a favorite - Fine Point, Blue Ink.

How I miss stocking up on all the school supplies for my kids. This is the second year I don't have anyone in school...Mind you I'm glad it's over, years of getting them ready for school - especially college, is draining.

Now it's going to be all about me. I'm out to find the perfect pen...let the search begin.

2010-07-09T21:36:00.000-04:00

2010-07-08T19:15:00.003-04:00

I wanted to grill Ham & Pineapple Kabobs for dinner last night - but - working all day, I was tired - so - I settled for Ham Steaks and Pineapple Chunks. I love Ham & Pineapple - Especially on Pizza. Pineapple is so good - It's no wonder it grows in Paradise.

4 Ham Steaks
2 large cans of Pineapple Chunks

Marinade:

2 cups of Pineapple Juice
1 cup Brown Sugar

Mix Pineapple Juice and Brown Sugar together and bring to a boil - until sugar is melted. Brush over Ham Steaks and Pineapple Chunks, while grilling.

Serve Ham & Pineapple over Rice.

Celebrating A July Holiday!

2010-07-07T18:41:00.010-04:00

July started out with a Bang!!!

Enjoyed Jet Skiing at the Seneca Lake

Caribbean Cookout with Friends & Family

All American Cookout with Friends & Family

Fireworks, Sparklers, Snaps and Glow Sticks

Refreshing Summer Slush

2010-06-29T21:53:00.002-04:00

Fruit Slush

Boil together and cool:

3 c. water
2 c. sugar

Add:
1 -20 oz. can crushed pineapple
6 bananas, sliced
1 - 6 oz. can frozen orange juice concentrate

Mix and freeze. Thaw to slush before serving, about 20 minutes. Fresh peaches or oranges may be added.

Samoa M& M Blondies

2010-06-28T20:43:00.006-04:00

I made this dessert for Jeremy's meeting at work today. Hopefully, they all loved it. Empty pan returned home. When I made it, I doubled the recipe for a 9 x 13 pan.

8x8 pan recipe:

10 Tbsp. unsalted butter - I used Parkay
1 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 1/4 cups sweetened coconut
1 1/4 cups mini M&M's
a few extra M&M's

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 8x8 inch pan with nonstick spray.

2. Heat butter in saucepan over medium heat until it browns and begins to smell nutty. (Watch it closely so it doesn't burn). Let the butter cool for a few minutes until it's slightly warm.

3. In a large bowl, combine the browned butter and sugars and stir with a wooden spoon, stir in egg, vanilla and salt. Stir in flour, coconut and M&M's until batter is blended.

4. Pour the batter into prepared pan and smooth the top with a rubber spatula. Sprinkle additional M&M's on top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Let the Blondies cool before cutting into squares.

Yield 16 squares.

Tips:

You can use Chocolate Chips instead of M&M's
For gooey underbaked Blondies - bake for 25 minutes.

source: recipe girl

Playing with Pictures.

2010-06-27T15:30:00.007-04:00

I love playing around with pictures I've taken of the boys. Tyler and Troy are so patient with me.

These were taken within the last month. Troy is now 2 months old and growing like a weed. Tyler is 2 1/2 years old. We're so enjoying getting to spend time with them.

Cheeseburger in Paradise Sliders

2010-06-26T20:28:00.005-04:00

I love the Little Slider Cheeseburgers. My first slider was at Cheeseburger in Paradise. I know, I live in Ohio and have never had a White Castle. Nope, never have!!!!

These are so easy to do:

Ingredients:

2 lbs hamburger- I like 93/7
Dried onion sprinkles
Velveeta Cheese Slices or American Cheese Slices
Salt and Pepper
Dinner Rolls

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a 9 x 13 pan - sprinkle dried onion, salt and pepper in pan. Press hamburger into bottom of pan. Bake for 30 minutes. Pour off excess grease and dab top of hamburger with paper towel. Put slices of cheese on top of hamburger and return to over for 1-2 minutes until cheese melts. Cut cheeseburger in slices to fit dinner roll Slice dinner rolls - and place cheese burger on top. Add pickle and Heinze 57 sauce for a Cheeseburger in Paradise taste.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T16:37:00.006-04:00

Happy Father's Day...to my Wonderful Dad!

I guess I was one of the lucky ones, who didn't have to share my dad.

As an only child - I had him and my mom, all to myself.

Lots of amazing memories growing up... Expecially, vacations all across this country.

He's been there for me always.

Love, love, love this man!

Peanut Butter/Chocolate Chip & M&M Cookies

2010-06-08T21:58:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Angie Gray for this delicious recipe...I'm sure Tyler loved them!

Ingredients:

2 3/4 c. flour
1 tsp. soda
1 cup butter
1/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 pkg. Instant Vanilla Pudding
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
1/2 bag Chocolate Chips
1/2 bag Peanut Butter Chips
1 Bag Baking M&M's

Directions:
Mix flour with soda. Combine butter, sugars, pudding mix & vanilla, in a large bowl. Beat until smooth & creamy. Beat in eggs, then add flour mixture. Stir in chips and M&M's - Bake @ 375 degrees for 8 - 10 minutes.

It's Baking in the Oven as I Type!

2010-06-06T16:32:00.005-04:00

No Fail Apple (and Berries) Cobbler
source: jenspeaks

Ingredients:

1/4 cups Butter, Melted
1/3 cups Brown Sugar
1 package (27 oz. Package) Mrs. Smith's Apple Pie, Slightly Thawed
1 cup Mixed Berries, frozen
1 cup Walnuts, Whole, or Large Pieces - I used Pecans

Preparation Instructions:
The apple pie should be the traditional style with 2 crusts, not the Dutch style with the crumble top.

Any berry will work well with the apple. Blueberries, blackberries, reaspberries, strawberries and a combination of all the above. You can also make this with no berries.

Preheat oven to 375F degrees.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar.
Lightley grease or spray a 9x13 casserole dish
Break up the still mostly frozen apple pie into the casserole dish. the pieces can be large-it all melts into wonderful fruity goo as it bakes.
Sprinkle the berries and walnuts over the pie pieces
Pour the butter-brown sugar mixture over the pieces - Not all will be covered
Bake in the oven for at least 40 minutes or until all the crust pieces are cooked through.

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and/or whipped cream.

Great Munchie Masher

2010-06-05T11:42:00.005-04:00

Thought I'd share some of my favorite munchie mashers. Since I'm coming up on the 16th week of dieting...These have helped me through some rough times. I swear I eat more chocolate now then I did before dieting. My favorite is the slim fast snack bar...It tastes just like a Butterfinger candy bar...My absolute favorite candy, besides M&M's, Peanut of course.

Summer Fun

2010-06-02T21:36:00.005-04:00

Toes are Flip Flop Ready!!!!

Memorial Weekend

2010-05-31T21:15:00.001-04:00

Customize a free scrapbook design

2010-05-31T11:52:00.003-04:00

Fruit Pizza Recipe

2010-05-29T22:22:00.004-04:00

Fruit Pizza

1 package refrigerator sugar cookie dough

1 8 oz. cream cheese
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 Tbsp. butter

1 can peach pie filling

strawberries - sliced
blueberries
pineapple - chunks - drained
mandarin oranges - drained
any other fruit you would like to decorate with.

1st layer - press cookie dough into 12 inch round pizza pan - bake as directed on package. Cool.

2nd layer - Mix at medium speed - cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, until creamy. Spread on cooled sugar cookie crust.

3rd layer - spread canned pie filling over cream cheese mixture.

4th layer - decorate with assorted fruit

Keep refrigerated.

Addition added for Margarita Night @ Seneca Lake

Tequila Glaze -

1 1/2 cups Margarita Mix - I used Strawberry
2 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 Tbsp. butter
1/8 cup tequila

To prepare glaze - add above ingredients to saucepan - bring to a boil and simmer until reduced. Drizzle over fruit topping.

Summer Dreaming

2010-05-23T19:34:00.003-04:00

Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Salsa Quesadillas

Flour tortilla

Chicken Breast

Shredded Mexican Cheese

Pineapple Tidbits - drained

1 jar Pineapple Salsa

I grilled these over the fire at the lake. For the salsa I used Paul Newman's Pineapple Salsa - I added 1 can of pineapple and mixed. To me it's easier to make quesadilla's using 1 flour tortilla and folding it over. Place 1 flour tortilla on grill, add 2 slices of chicken breast, sprinkle shredded cheese over top, add salsa then fold over tortilla shell. Flip when one side starts to brown. The quesadilla is done when cheese is melted. I think it's easier to flip when the cheese melts.

You can also add: Tomatoes, Sour Cream and Lettuce, etc. after the quesadilla is cooked.

2010-05-23T08:38:00.000-04:00

Dieting still...I wish I could at least lose the 2 pounds!

Giant Roasters.

2010-05-22T06:43:00.003-04:00

These are going to make some Awesome Giant Smores! You can find them at Riesbecks

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars

2010-05-21T21:52:00.004-04:00

Whenever I'm on a diet, I tend to want to bake and bake and bake!

Is it my way of seeing how much will power I have?

That's a question, that still needs to be answered!

This might be the one so tempting that I cave!!!!!!

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars

1 roll of Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough - I bought the large roll
10 ounces of chocolate chips - I used milk chocolate
Scant 1/2 cup Half & Half
40 caramels
chopped pecans - Jeremy doen't like nuts in food - so I only put nuts on half the bars.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a 9 x 13 pan press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for about 12 minutes. While the cookie is baking unwrapped 40 caramels and put into a microwave safe bowl; set aside.

Take the cookie crust out of the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips all around the top. Return to the oven until they are melted. Quickly and gently use a spatula to spread the chocolate across the top of the cookie. Be careful not to tear into the cookie layer. If the cookie begins to cool before the chocolate is spread return to the oven to melt the chocolate.

Add just under a 1/2 cup of Half & Half to the caramels. Microwave on high for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring after each minute. Pour the caramel evenly over the chocolate chip topping. Sprinke pecans over the top. Let cool completely. Enjoy!

Taco Pasta Salad

2010-05-18T22:09:00.010-04:00

I'm beginning to think I'm addicted to Mexican Food.

I found another Taco Salad recipe and I must admit it out does Paula's.

Taco Pasta Salad

Recipe found on Tried and True Cooking with Heidi

Ingredients:

2 cups uncooked spiral pasta - I used 1 box

1 pound ground beef - I used 2 lbs.

1 envelope taco seasoning - I added water as directed

3 cups shredded lettuce - I used 3 bags of shredded lettuce

2 cups cherry tomatoes halved.

2 cups of shredded Mexican Cheese

1/2 cup onion - I used 1 medium onion chopped

1/2 cup green pepper chopped - I used 1 green pepper

1/2 cup Catalina Dressing - I used a whole bottle

1/2 bag Doritos - crushed - I used Nacho Cheese and used almost the whole bag.

Cook pasta as directed. Meanwhile in a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink - drain. Stir in taco seasoning; cool. Drain pasta and rinse in cold water; stir into meat mixture. Add the lettuce, tomatoes, onion, green pepper, cheese and dressing - Mix with dressing. Add Doritos prior to serving and mix well.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-16T19:02:00.012-04:00

Since 2 of my 3 children live away from home...Mother's Day was spent a week later then the calendar date. It's not often that we are all in the same place anymore and I love getting them all in one place...Home!

I had a fantastic time getting to spend the weekend with my two grandsons...Tyler is 2 now, so there were some tense moments. Troy didn't let me put him down for 5 hours on Saturday. Sunday Troy is experiencing his first cold.

Photo: The Food Network

A Mother's Day Cookout.

Bar-B-Que Ribs

Steak Burgers

Chicken

Ho Jo Potatoes

Fruit Salad

Paula Deen's Taco Salad

Baked Beans

Corn

Corn Bread

Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Paula Deen's Taco Salad Recipe - Found on the Food Network.

Click on Food Network to go to recipe.

2010-05-06T07:10:00.001-04:00

2010-05-05T21:54:00.002-04:00

How did you celebrate?????

I had lunch today @ the local Mexican Resturant ~ Talaquepacque.
Grilled Chicken Salad with Salsa for Dressing and lots and lots of their famous Chips & Salsa.

Weekend With Tyler...

2010-05-02T22:10:00.003-04:00

.
The weekend started under a lot of stress. My newborn grandson Troy was admitted to the hospital for dehydration. Poor little guy, projectile vomiting and diarrhea. He's home now and hopefully recovered.

The rain started yesterday and has been pouring ever since. Some of the fun plans with Tyler have been put on hold. In a couple weeks we'll be flying balloons and fishing at the lake.

Right now I'm more exhausted then he is...He's still going strong.

2010-04-28T13:51:00.001-04:00

White Chocolate Covered Popcorn

2010-04-25T19:14:00.004-04:00

White Chocolate Covered Popcorn

Ingredients:

8 cups unbuttered/unsalted popcorn
1 bag Wilton White Chocolate Drops - Found in Wilton Cake Decorating Isle
Milk Chocolate M&M's

Pop popcorn as directed - I use non microwave popcorn - after popcorn is popped. Melt 1/2 bag of Chocolate disks in microwave - stir takes approx. 1 1/2 minutes - watch closely will burn easily. Pour over popcorn and mix - sprinkle M&M's over it and stir. Store in air tight container.

One of My Favorite Recipes!!!

2010-04-18T14:13:00.005-04:00

This is one of my favorite Coffee Cakes. I first had it years ago, working at the Health Dept. Marilyn Moorehead - Would bring it in and we'd gobble it up. To this day, it brings back many happy memories.

Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Ingredients:

1 Box Yellow Cake Mix

1 Box Vanilla Pudding (instant) - I used the large size

4 eggs - I used farm fresh eggs from Lu Ann Danfords Farm

3 Tbsp. Cinnamon

1/2 cup Sugar

1/2 cup Oil

1 1/2 cups Sour Cream

1/2 to 3/4 cup Chopped Walnuts

Mix all with sour cream last. (If too thick I add more sour cream. - Pour into greased pan - bundt, angel food, or 9 x 13 inch pan. Sprinkle some sugar over top - bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour.

The Sweetest Arrival

2010-04-17T17:44:00.000-04:00

Customize a free scrapbook design

Troy Robert Corrao

2010-04-17T10:20:00.001-04:00

Another scrapbooking design by Smilebox

Woolen Willow Quilt Store

2010-03-28T21:45:00.001-04:00

Customize your own picture slideshow

2010-03-28T16:15:00.001-04:00

2010-03-21T19:05:00.001-04:00

Create a free photo slideshow

St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-21T18:55:00.001-04:00

Create a digital greeting

Almond Lover's Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-03-15T21:42:00.011-04:00

I found this recipe over at picky-palate.com and couldn't wait to try it...Well, living in Southeastern Ohio, sometimes causes problems finding cooking ingredients, that the rest of the United States takes for granted! I have never heard of Almond Paste, this of course sent me on a mission. Luckily, I found it in the bakery section at Giant Eagle in North Canton. This has a different texture then I'm used to... Next time..I will add the almond pieces...I miss the crunch!

Almond Lover's Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 sticks soft butter

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup light brown sugar

3 ounces Odense Almond Paste - Comes in 7 ounce log - cut log in half

2 eggs

1 Tablespoon vanilla

2 1/2 cups all purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

12 ounce bag of chocolate chips (I used milk chocolate chips)

3/4 cup chopped almonds (I will add these next time)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a stand or electric mixer cream butter and sugars, until well combined, light and fluffy. Add the almond paste in pieces until well combined. Add in eggs and vanilla until well combined.

In a large bowel combine flour, baking soda, salt. Slowly add to wet ingredients along with the chocolate chips. Mix until well combined. Scoop onto a silpat or parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to cooling rack.

St. Patrick's Day Recipe

2010-03-14T09:56:00.010-04:00

Potato Patch Casserole

1 lb. ground beef

1/4 c. bread crumbs

1/2 c. choppped onion

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/4 tsp. celery salt

1/4 c. milk

1 egg

Combine all ingredients; mix well. Shape into balls. Brown in small amount of oil in skillet; drain. Arrange the balls around the outside of a 4 quart baking dish.

5 c. sliced potatoes

Salt and pepper to taste

1 - 10 oz pkg. frozen peas and carrots, thawed

Mix vegetables in bowl. Spoon into the center of baking dish and season to taste.

3 Tbsp. melted margarine

1 1/2 Tbsp. flour

1 1/2 c. milk

1/2 lb. Velveeta cheese cubed

Blend melted margarine cornstarch and 1 1/2 cups milk in saucepan. Cook until mixture thickens, stirring constantly. Add cheese. Heat until cheese melts, stirring constantly. Pour over meatballs and vegetables. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until vegetables are tender. I usually cook mine for 1hour 15 minutes.

2010-03-13T17:47:00.002-05:00

Irish Potato Casserole

6 medium potatoes cooked, cooled and chopped

1 cup grated cheese

1 medium onion, chopped

1 small carton of sour cream

Mix all together. Put in casserole. place 1/2 stick of margarine on top of the mixture and bake at 350 degrees until it bubbles.

A Brand New Contest! - Gooseberry Patch

2010-03-10T07:21:00.000-05:00

A Brand New Contest! - Gooseberry Patch

2010-03-07T17:37:00.005-05:00

I think every girl should sparkle and shine...So this weekend, I treated myself to...

Bath and Body Works newest scent,

Passport Tahiti

Coconut Vanille

Love, Love, Love It...

So all you girls...who like to Sparkle and Shine...

What's your favorite scent...

It might end up being mine too!!!

2010-02-24T19:46:00.001-05:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

2010-02-23T06:58:00.002-05:00

It's National Pancake Day!

I purchased a box of pink pancakes with chocolate chips to make for my grandson.

Pancakes are one of his favorite breakfasts.

Celebrate the day by having breakfast for dinner.

Add your favorite side dish and you have the perfect meal!

2010-02-22T17:29:00.002-05:00

Happy Margarita Day

I'm not a big Margarita fan but ...I love Jimmy Buffett

So, In honor of all you Parotheads out there..Enjoy your special day!

Nut Roll Baking

2010-02-20T20:47:00.004-05:00

Nut Rolls ready to go into the ovens.

Veronica Norman spreading the nut mixture, then ready to roll them into a log shape

Betty Zmij and Barb Panchak starting the dough mixture... 5 bowls of dough make 35 rolls.

This is the first night of baking...getting ready for the spring bake sale at St. Michaels Church.

2010-02-18T17:50:00.001-05:00

Valentines Day 2010

2010-02-14T21:54:00.004-05:00

Hope everyone's Valentines Day was extra special.

I had lots of fun receiving this years Valentine from Bob...

He surprised me with a Paula Deen Apple Pie...A card that said...I'm the Apple of His Eye!

Can't wait to see what he comes up with next year!

Frozen Hot Chocolate Recipe | Taste of Home Recipes

2010-02-11T17:27:00.002-05:00

Frozen Hot Chocolate Recipe Taste of Home Recipes

I made this for friends at Help Me Grow when I worked there. Trust me, You'll Love It!

2010-02-10T21:24:00.002-05:00

Today is my oldest sons birthday...Happy Birthday Jeremy!!!

Super Bowl Sunday

2010-02-07T08:22:00.012-05:00

I've checked out recipes from Pioneer Woman Cooks and thought today would be a great day to try making Marlboro Man's Favorite Sandwich...Hopefully, Scruffy's dad will enjoy it for the big game tonight.

Marlboro Man's Favorite Sandwich

Pioneer Woman Cooks

Ingredients:

1 Whole Large Onion (or 2 small ones)

2 Sticks Butter (Lots and Lots of Butter)

2-3 lbs Cube Steak

Lawry's Seasoned Salt

1/2 cup (approximately) Worcestershire Sauce

Tabasco Sauce - to taste

4 whole French/deli Rolls

Preparation Instructions:

Slice onions and cook in 1/4 stick of butter until soft and light brown. Remove and set aside.

Slice cube steak against the grain. Season with Lawry's

Heat 2 Tbsp. butter over high heat, in the same skillet until melted and beginning to brown. Add meat in single layer. Cook one side until brown then flip and cook until brown (approximately 1 minute each side).

Add 1/2 cup (at least) Worcestershire Sauce, 5 to 6 shakes of Tabasco, and 2 Tbsp. butter. Add cooked onions. Stir to combine.

Buttered half French Rolls and brown in skillet.

To assemble: Lay bottom half of French Roll on plate, Place meat mixture, followed by a spoonful of juice from the pan. Top with the other half of roll. Cut in half and devour!!!

Valentines Day Cards

2010-02-06T18:49:00.005-05:00

These "talented ladies" love to design cards.

These are the latest creation for Valentines Day.

Marla M. wish I would have taken pictures of her studio...she is the most organized crafter I've ever met!!!

Nonnie L. always comes up with the cutest ideas.

Ok Nonnie...I admit it...I want to be retired!!!!

Introducing....Baby Boy Corrao

2010-02-04T17:06:00.004-05:00

It's amazing the technology we have now!

This is my soon to be grandson, due April of this year.

I have just fallen in love with him and his cute little smile.

The Final Season...

2010-02-02T19:23:00.000-05:00

Will I understand all this when it ends????

2010-01-30T22:04:00.004-05:00

Pajama Party 2010

Country Craft Cupboard

Berlin, Ohio

This picture doesn't show it, but it was elbow to elbow getting through the store.

The line was lined up around the building as we arrived. We were brave though and stood outside in the 15 degree temperature. All for that almighty bargin of 40% off.

This is the nicest crowd you'll ever encounter. Not a single unpleasant encounter throughout the whole shopping experience.

Jane and Carolyn still smiling, after they purchased the most have items.
Can't wait to see what cute idea Jane will come up with next.
You can't see it, but Carolyn had the cutest snowman purse...Wish I would have gotten a picture.

2010-01-29T20:39:00.005-05:00

I picked out this panel for a lap quilt for Erica, when she was pregnant for Tyler.

I've had it done for some time but it needed a few last minute additions, before going to be loved by a special little boy.

Tyler's room is Jungle Themed, which by the way is amazingly cute.

It was perfect for a little boy to grow up in.

In 10 short weeks Tyler is passing on his little nursery to his new baby brother.

He is going into a new big boy bed with a new theme of can you guess....

Cars!

There is also a sister (or should I say brother) quilt to match this one.

I plan to post pictures of it later.

2010-01-28T22:11:00.003-05:00

Picture from These are the Days - Lacey M.

I saw this posted a while ago on Lacey's blog...Then Jeremy came home with a jar!

I love it!!

It is especially good on cinnamon toast. The melted chocolate with peanut taste just like a dream!

Whoever came up with name, really got it right!

2010-01-27T19:54:00.002-05:00

2010-01-25T00:05:00.007-05:00

Tina from Sunny Flower Days as tagged me, to play this game....

I have to answer 5 questions with 5 answers then tag 5 people.

Who ever will I pick?

Question #1

Where were you five years ago?

1. I was working for the Help Me Grow program. Probably wishing I was working somewhere

else.

2. My children all left the nest, with my youngest Joel in his first year of College!

3. I just started learning to quilt @ Miss Carol's Quilt Shop.

4. I started camping at Seneca Lake Marina - Or should I say I purchased a camper for

the lake.

5. I celebrated my 28th wedding anniversary in August of 2005, to the most wonderful guy.(Don't tell him I said that).

Question #2

What is on your list to do today?

Since it's now Monday...

1. Go to work and hopefully, have a wonderful day.

2. Enjoy January Birthday Lunch, with all the Wonderful Friends at Health Dept.

3. Finish sewing the bunny I'm making.

4. Start working on one of my new patterns.

5. Grill Steaks for dinner.

Question #3

What 5 snacks do you enjoy?

1. Doritoes

2. Cheetos

3. Popcorn Cake

4. Peanut M&M's

5. Chocolate Cake

Question #4

What 5 places have you lived?

1. Newport News, VA

2. Copperas Cove, TX

3. Killeen, TX

4. Byesville, OH

5. Fayette, AL

Question #5

What 5 things would you do if you were a billionaire?

1. Move to a far away island.

2. Help my family.

3. Buy a huge boat.

4. Retire

5. Relax, Relax, Relax!!!!!

5 people I'm tagging.

1. Lacy at These are the days.

2. Anyone else who loves to play games.

Thank you Tina...

2010-01-23T09:30:00.001-05:00

2010-01-22T21:00:00.006-05:00

I wanted to share with you pictures of the quilt I made my daughter.

This is the Lone Star....I picked this pattern, in honor of her birth place... Texas

The plan is to hang it on the wall, overlooking the family room.

I also want to Thank Carol, from Miss Carol's Quilts - for all the patience she showed, helping me complete this, and sharing her talent with me!

2010-01-20T19:54:00.010-05:00

On Monday, Martin Luther King Day, I celebrated by enjoying a shopping day with my crafting friends...Marla, Nonnie and Jane"

We started out *bright and *early...at Craft 2000. One of the best places to get craft supplies this side of Ohio. - I'm happy to report I saved approximately 68.00 on stamps, cards, wrapping paper and bling!!!

After 2 1/2 hours scrambling through all the sale racks, it was off to the "Mountains" of West Virginia and the Highlands.

Lunch at one of my favorite resturants...Cheddars! It was worth

Nonnie- Last minute find...Stamps for 25 cents. She had to grab a design each for herself, Jane and Marla....

Jane - Monte Cristo Sandwich...Love the Raspberry Preserve Dip!

Marla getting ready to enjoy the Peach Tea!

Pefectly, Warm & Fuzzy Recipe

2010-01-17T15:16:00.004-05:00

Gingerbread Chai Tea

Ingredients:
3/4 cup hot water
1 chai tea bag
2 tablespoons Gingerbread Flavor NESTLÉ COFFEE-MATE Powdered Coffee Creamer (during the season I use the liquid, stock up on the powder if you can find it)

Instructions:
PLACE water and tea bag in mug; steep for 1 to 2 minutes. Discard tea bag. Stir in Coffee-mate.

Visiting baby goats with Tyler

2010-01-16T18:32:00.002-05:00

Tyler and I visited Rose Ball and her barn full of baby goats. Tyler was so excited to watch the baby goats jump and climb! How fun for him to get to feed the little babies. Great way to spend time with my grandson!

Don't forget to turn off the music on my side bar, so you can enjoy the swirling snowflakes.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

T'was the Month After Christmas....

2010-01-14T21:41:00.012-05:00

Twas the Month After Christmas, and all through the house

Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse.

The cookies I nibbled, the eggnog I taste,

At the holiday parties had gone to my waste.

When I got to the scales, there arose such a number!

When I walk to the store (less a walk than a lumber).

I remember the marvelous meals I'd prepared,

The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared.

The wine and the rum balls, the bread and the cheese,

And the way I never said, "No thank you please".

As I dressed myself in my husband's old shirt,

And prepared once again to do battle with dirt.

I said to myself, as only I can,

"You can't spend a winter disquised as a man".

So--away with the last of sour cream dip,

Get rid of the fruitcake, crackers, and chip.

Every last bit of food that I like must be banished.

'Til all the additional ounces has vanished.

I won't have a cookie, not even a lick,

I'll want only to chew on a long celery stick.

I won't have hot biscuits, or corn bread, or pie,

I'll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.

I'm hungry, I'm lonesome, and life is a bore,
But isn't that want January is for?

Unable to giggle, no longer a riot,

Happy new Year to all, and to all a good diet!

author: unknown

Whatcha Working on Wednesday???

2010-01-13T21:14:00.005-05:00

This is my first attempt at a Penny Rug...

It is for one of my really good friends, who inspires me to want to make crafts, I've never tried before.

I purchased the pattern at the Country Craft Cupboard in Berlin, (My all time favorite store).

I love working with the wool and pearl cotton thread.

I'm sure you'll be seeing many more of my attempts and perfecting my skills.

Please visit My Country Home for more crafters participating in

Whatcha Working on Wednesday!

2010-01-12T19:41:00.004-05:00

Outside My Window - The sky appears grayish/pink the scene is of snowy ground, light reflecting off of it letting me see objects in the darkness.

I am thinking - About January plans for shopping and the Amish Country Pajama Party '10, this month.

I am thankful - that I didn't have to make visits today and got to stay in at work.

I am wearing - Still in my scrubs and can't wait to put my pajama's on.

I am remembering - About all the circle journals I've got to get out this week

I am going - to work tomorrow, call about starting a new craft, be ready to craft with Marla and Nonnie, get all my pending reports completed at work.

I am currently reading - Simple and Delicious Magazine.

I am hoping - for warmer weather, a perfectly peaceful weekend.

On my mind - How I wish my neck and back didn't hurt.

From my kitchen - Dishes need done, left overs need put away and a candle needs lit.

Around my house - Bob is snoring, Scruffy and Brownie are sleeping and Jeremy is somewhere around. the history channel is on the TV, a flicker of fire is in the fireplace and I've got the lights out so I don't have to see what I need to do around here.

One of my favorite things - Watching NCIS which I'm about to do and Starting the new season of American Idol!

2010-01-10T21:33:00.003-05:00

"The wind was blowing, but not too hard, and everyone was so happy and gay for it was only 20 degrees below zero and the sun shone."

Laura Ingalls Wilder

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. -2 Outside

2010-01-10T07:28:00.003-05:00

Primitive Snowman Jane Rusnak - (Karen Wiggin's) mom, made for me this winter!

If your interested in her work - She sells at the Attic Trunk in Cambridge.

One of Joel's Favorite Meals

2010-01-09T19:36:00.006-05:00

Thinking of Joel today and decided to make one of his favorites.

Haluski

It's really a simple dish to make and I learned years ago to love this type of food, from my Grandma Feyko. My mother is really good at making meals from our Slovak history too.

Ingredients:

Kluski Noodles - My noodles of choice

1 head of Cabbage

2 pkgs. of Kielbasa

1/2 cup of butter

Cook noodles as directed. Cut up cabbage into approximately the same size as the noodles might be a little wider. Melt the butter in a frying pan, add cabbage. Cut Kielbasa into bite size pieces and add to cabbage. Cover and cook until cabbage is soft. When noodles are down drain and add to cooked cabbage/Kielbasa. Mix together and enjoy!!!!

Happy Birthday Joel

2010-01-09T10:19:00.003-05:00

Today is Joel's 24th Birthday

How has time flown by so fast?????

Wasn't it just yesterday, I brought him home on a Cold January Day!!!

Microwave Chex Mix

2010-01-03T18:43:00.003-05:00

Recipe and Photo from Southern Plate

Changes Made: 1/2 Cashews instead of mixed nuts and oyster crackers instead of Rice Chex Cereal

Microwave Chex Mix

■1 stick margarine (1/2 cup)
■2 tsp Seasoned Salt
■3 T Worcestershire sauce
■8 C assorted Chex Cereal
■1 C mixed nuts (optional)
Place margarine, seasoned salt, and Worcestershire in a large microwave safe bowl. Heat in microwave just until melted. Add nuts, stir. Add cereal, stir. Microwave for two minutes. Stir. Microwave two minutes more. Stir. Microwave a final two minutes, stir and eat! Will be soft until it cools and then will be nice and crunchy.

Potato Bundles - Pioneer Woman Cooks

2010-01-03T15:04:00.003-05:00

These are my new favorite potato to make...So easy!!

Hope you enjoy these has much as we do!!!!

Potato Bundles

Ingredients
6 whole Russet Potatoes (Cut in chunks)
½ whole Yellow Onion, Diced
1 stick Butter
½ cups Heavy Cream
Kosher Salt To Taste
Paprika To Taste
Freshly Ground Black Pepper, To Taste
2 Tablespoons Minced Parsley
Preparation Instructions
Pile potatoes and onions on a square of foil. Add 2 tablespoons butter. Splash on cream. Then sprinkle on salt, paprika, and black pepper. Sprinkle minced parsley over the top.
Wrap bundles tightly and bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes, or until extremely tender.
Serve bundles right on the dinner plate.

Christmas Tour of Homes - Nonnie Luskevich

2010-01-01T20:42:00.000-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Tour of Home - Jane Carr's Christmas Decorations

2010-01-01T19:57:00.001-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Health Department Christmas Lunch!

2010-01-01T19:34:00.002-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2010-01-01T19:11:00.002-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T13:51:00.003-05:00

Happy 2010...A time for New Beginnings!!!

This year we will welcome our newest grandson...Can't to meet him, and see what other fun surprises the New Year brings!

I finally received my copy of The Pioneer Woman Cooks Cookbook!!!!

I see a lot of great meals being cooked in our future.

I have so enjoyed sitting down and reading this.

If you're into cookbooks as much as I am, then you have to have this one!!!!

2009-12-30T22:02:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas 2009

Pictures of my house decorated for the Holiday Season!!!

My dad and Jeremy opening gifts Christmas Day!

2009-11-25T21:00:00.002-05:00

This recipe was given to me from a co-worker, Tracey Kerns....Comes with lots of thumbs up from my other co-workers.

Frog Eye Salad

Mix Together:

1 cup Sugar

2 Tbsp. Flour

1/2 tsp. Salt

Stir in 1 3/4 cup pineapple juice

2 beaten eggs and 1 Tablespoon lemon juice

Cook until thickened - cool.

Meanwhile: cook one box Acini Di Pepe Pasta (I only found this at Riesbecks) San Giorgio

according to package directions then drain, Rinse with water and drain

Mix together with the thickened pineapple juice and refrigerate over night.

Next day....fold in 3 cans of manderin oranges - drained

1 can pineapple tidbits - drained

2 cans of crrushed pineapple - drained

1 cup minature marshmallows

1 8 oz. Cool Whip

This salad will keep in refrigerator up to a week!!!!!

2009-11-01T20:56:00.001-05:00

2009-11-01T20:53:00.001-05:00

2009-11-01T20:49:00.001-05:00

This is the 3rd Round, since September!

2009-10-18T22:12:00.002-04:00

Fall In Amish Country!

2009-09-26T22:00:00.006-04:00

Going to Amish Country ~ Holmes County, Ohio, is always a favorite this time of year! I get the itch to start crafting again...This trip was no exception. Love to see the stores decorations. Makes it feel so homey! Unfortunately, they won't allow pictures to be taken!

Lunch of course was at the Dutch Valley - With an awesome Pumpkin Dessert - by the way Tyler loved. Taking after his grandma in food taste!

Fall Decorating!

2009-09-26T09:49:00.004-04:00

I've been searching for the perfect fall decorations this year, I came across these wreaths from BHG's. Love, love, love them!

Years ago, I went to a local nursery and made a wreath that looked exactly like the one below. D&D Nursery located on Rt. 313 near Claysville, gives classes on making wreaths to look almost exactly like this. Dave Dolan dries his own flowers. Wreaths are awesome!

I'm addicted to Berries, always one of my favorite choices.

2009-09-24T11:16:00.001-04:00

2009-09-22T18:02:00.001-04:00