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Great Shows On ABC this Season, have you seen them?

Christmas Memories~

Memory - Definition: Faculty from the mind by which it retains the knowlege of previous thoughts or events. Time within which past events can be remembered. State of being remembered.

Christmas is thee memorable Holiday in my house, Growing up with and to this day my parents delighted in always giving us kids a sweet, wonderful  and special Christmas experience. We have many fun holiday family traditions, which have been passed down to us. From having a big picnic "buffet" indoors on Christmas Eve, reading  stories and verses from the Bible aloud , singing beautiful Christmas songs from the piano as well as a special performance from Daniel and Alex on the guitar. We also would drive around the neighborhood looking at Christmas lights, or going to see The Nutcracker ballet. My Mom and Dad would give us a present from "Santa"; super cute and cozy PJ's on Christmas Eve then it was off to bed for some wonderful dreams.
Christmas Day is a  very fast moving and exciting  experience in "The Adams" household it's an early morning of surprising each sister with a cheerful wake up call, then getting ready for  pictures by the tree and unwrapping gifts and then stockings.  After resting for a little while, we all sit down for the best breakfast ever laughing and telling stories, also enjoying Christmas movies and music! Then, we begin helping my Mom with preparing for the big Christmas dinner!  Daniel  remembers his sweet family and the wonderful times they shared during the hoilday season  in Michigan. His Mom baking and wrapping gifts and decorating the house, playing in the snow with his younger brother Jay and all his cousins. Having many snow days off from school. Picking out the perfect Christmas Tree with his Dad. Spending time with his Grandparents "The Harvey's" and of course "The Brown Family" and waking up on Christmas Day, lots of family amazing food and stories told around the Christmas table. We have such heartfelt family memories and stories over the years.
Since Daniel and I are staying in Florida  for our own Christmas this year. We decided to share some of our Christmas pictures of the many, fun and blessed holiday times we have had . I hope it doesn't make us to melancholy but helps us to appreciate and treasure all the wonderful times that we cherish, what a wonderful family we have and how lucky we truly are. We wish you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Hope you enjoy our photo collection. 

Peace and Love - from "The Brown 's".

Comfort Food~ Relax And Unwind

Despite our busy lives today everybody still loves good home cooked food and it rightly occupies a central place in our hearts and on our tables. A home cooked meal is always something to look forward to. A quick midweek home cooked meal is a relaxing and comforting end to the day or a perfect antidote for days we're not feeling great and everything has gone wrong!  Like when it's cold and nasty outside or it's been a stressful week. Comfort food also helps us to unwind at the weekend with a lazy brunch or a long , relaxing supper featuring familiar dishes. Like a wonderful, substantial casserole or a tasty and filling  bowl of soup. We all deserve an extra-special treat sometimes like a cup of ultimate hot chocolate and oatmeal cookies.I have found that these recipes are healthy, economical as well as fun and easy to cook. So take an opportunity to relax and unwind- either alone or in the company of family and friends.
 Comfort Food- YES PLEASE! Here are some of our Favorites..

Mac and Cheese-

1 ( 8ounce) package uncooked elbow macaroni
2 cups milk
1/4 cup all purpose flour
1 teaspoon onion salt
2(10 ounce)blocks sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 4 1/2 cups) and divided
1 cup soft breadcrumbs
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain well. Set aside
Place milk, flour, and onion salt in a quart jar;cover tightly, and shake vigorously
1 minute. Stir together flour mixture, 3 1/2 cups cheese, add macaroni. Pour macaroni mixture into a lightly greased 13x9 inch baking pan or 2 (11 inch)oval baking dishes. Sprinkle evenly with breadcrumbs and remaining 1 cup cheese; drizzle evenly melted butter. Bake at 350'F for 45 minutes or until golden brown. I also use mild cheddar cheese instead of sharp cheddar and also include chopped cooked ham before baking. My all time favorite Comfort Food!

Baked Spaghetti-

1 1/2 pounds ground chuck
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1(15ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1/2 water
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons  house seasoning(recipe follows)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
2 small bay leaves
8 ounces angel hair pasta
1 (8 ounce) package cheddar cheese, shredded
1 ( 8ounce) package mozzarella cheese, shredded

House Seasoning-
1 cup salt
1/4 cup ground black pepper
1/4 cup garlic powder

In a large saucepan, cook ground chuck, pepper, onion , and garlic over medium heat,
stirring until beef is browned and crumbly and vegetables are tender; drain well.
In a large dutch oven , combine meat mixture, crushed tomatoes , diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, parsley, italian seasoning, house seasoning, salt, sugar and bay leaves.Bring mixture to a boil , stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove and discard bay leaves. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain well, set aside. Preheat oven to 350'F. Spray a 13x9-inch baking dish with non stick cooking spray. Spoon one-third of sauce mixture over the bottom of prepared baking dish.Top with half of pasta, then one-third of cheese. Repeat layers, ending with sauce and reserving remaining one-third cheese. Bake, uncovered, for 45 minutes. Top with remaining one third cheese, and bake for 10-15 minutes longer, or until cheese is melted. Remove from oven, and let rest for 10 minutes before cutting into squares to serve.

Chicken Tortilla Soup-
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion , chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed tomato soup
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 1/2  cups chicken broth
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/4 teaspoon ground  black pepper
1 cup frozen yellow corn, thawed
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup crushed tortilla chips
Garnish: sour cream, shredded mexican blend cheese, chopped avocados

In a large dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion , red pepper and jalapeno; cook for 4 minutes. Add garlic , cook 2 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes , condensed soup , chicken , chicken broth , cumin , salt , chili powder , poultry seasoning , pepper , stirring to combine , stir in  corn , cream , cilantro. Stir in chips and cook uncovered until heated through. Garnish with sour cream, cheese, avocados , if desired. Serve immediately.
Note: Soup can be made ahead and frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator.

Artichoke Spinach Lasagne-

1/2 cup chopped onion
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 can (14-1/2ounces) vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
1/4 teaspoon each ground nutmeg and  black pepper
1 can (14 ounce) water packed artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained, and quartered
1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1 jar (16 ounces) roasted garlic Alfredo or Parmesan and mozzarella pasta sauce
12 no cook lasagna noodles
3 cups (12 ounces) shredded part skim mozzarella cheese, divided
1 cup crumbled tomato and basil feta cheese or feta cheese
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon each dried oregano, parsley flakes, and basil

In a large saucepan, saute onion and garlic in oil for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
Stir in the broth, rosemary, nutmeg and pepper. Bring to a boil . Add artichokes, spinach and mushrooms. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in pasta sauce.
Spread 1 cup sauce mixture into a greased 13x9inch baking dish. Top with three noodles and 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers three times. Top with remaining sauce mixture and mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with feta cheese, garlic powder, oregano, parsley and basil
Cover and bake at 350'F for 40 minutes. Uncover; bake 15 minutes longer or until heated through. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting.

Cheese  Garlic Biscuits-

2 cups Original Bisquick mix
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2/3 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter melted
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

Heat oven to 450' F. In a medium bowl stir Bisquick mix, cheese, milk until soft dough forms.
On a  ungreased cookie sheet, drop dough by spoonfuls. Bake 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. In a small bowl , mix the butter, garlic powder. Brush over warm Biscuits. YUM!!

Spicy  Oatmeal Cookies-
1 cup all purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup each packed brown sugar and sugar
1 cup old fashioned oats
1 cup swirled milk chocolate and caramel chips
1/2 cup flaked coconut
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 egg
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a large bowl, beat the butter, egg, and vanilla. Add the remaining ingredients. Mix well. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 inch apart onto a ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350'F for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 2 minutes before removing to wire racks.

Dreamy Hot Chocolate-

1 can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
6 1/2 cups hot water
mini marshmallows or whipped cream-

In a large saucepan add milk, cocoa, vanilla, salt. Mix well medium heat. Stir in water. Don't boil. Enjoy a little Chocolate Therapy !

A Must See~

Every year we enjoy watching  "A Christmas Carol" movie, in all the many productions over the years. It's one of our favorites,we always look forward to seeing it. Disney's new version  in 3D is simply masterful and  magical. It was such fun! Which put us right in the Christmas spirit. We highly recommend it, let the Christmas Season Begin- Enjoy!

A Few Of My Favorite Things~

~ A Childhood Favorite~

Growing up my favorite book was and still is "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott. I guess I could relate to growing up with three sisters, which by the way, we all saw ourselves as  Meg , Jo, Beth or Amy, one way or another.Louisa May Alcott really spoke to me in a way know other could. I was thinking awhile back on writing a post on this subject, after actually going to New England and seeing where Lousia May Alcott spent the last years of her life in Boston I was even more inspired. She grew up in Concord MA. at a beautiful home named Orchard House. My sister brought to my attention recently, that  in December on PBS they have a very exciting Documentary called The Woman Behind "Little Women"  from American Masters -  it tells about the life and amazing experiences of Louisa May Alcott, there is also a book under the same name by author Harriet Reisen. Louisa May Alcott was a women ahead of her time, not only was she a brillant writer, she wrote hundreds of works of fiction, non-fiction, poetry and she helped to support her family with her writings, she was a nurse in the civil war and was a strong beliver in antislavery, women's education and women's suffrage, very progressive for her time. She never married and after her sister May's death she adopted her daughter and supported and loved her until her death. She was also great friends with Our( Daniel and I) writing hero's, Ralph Waldo Emerson and  Henry David Thoreau. She  learned botany from Henry David Thoreau and for a time tutored Ellen Emerson, Ralph Waldo Emerson's daughter. She also associated with Nathaniel Hawthorne.

Louisa May Alcott is someone I so look up to, not only for her being so strong minded and courageous. But also her humor, charm,  talent , passion , and drive. Her strong love of family and her amazing creativity. She truly was and is an inspiration. 

Louisa May Alcott -Born  November 29, 1832 - Died  March 6, 1888

Louisa May Alcott Quotes -

• I'm not afraid of storms, for I'm learning how to sail my ship.
• Love is the only thing that we can carry with us when we go, and it makes the end so easy.
• If it were not for the blessed fact that everything has it's comic as well as tragic side, I should have lost my wits long ago.

American Masters -  The Women Behind Little Women -  December 28th on PBS. or go to the link above (PBS.org for more information on show listings.)

Happy Thanksgiving ~

Baking Holiday Favorites, for Thanksgiving

 We love Thanksgiving so much in my family. Cooking and baking during the holiday season is so fun! It's the only holiday that is purely centered around family and a meal. Not bad! Tis the season for baking and eating. So delicious, Happy Thanksgiving!

 Here are some of my favorite things to bake for Thanksgiving , Enjoy!

Butterscotch Peanut Fudge-
1 can(14 0unces) sweetened condensed milk
1 package (12 ounces) butterscotch chips
1-1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
2/3 cup peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped salted peanuts


In a microwave-safe bowl ,combine the milk , butterscotch chips and marshmallows.
Microwave, uncovered, at 80% power for 3 minutes or until the chips and marshmallows
are melted , stirring frequently. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla until combined.Fold in peanuts. Pour into an 11-in.x7 in- pan coated with cooking spray.Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm. Cut into squares. Store in the refrigerator.

Turtle Pumpkin Pie-
1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp.caramel ice cream topping, divided
1 Honey Maid Graham Pie Crust (6 oz)
1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp. chopped Planters pecans, divided
2 pkg.(3,4. each) Jello Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding
1 cup cold milk
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip Whipped Topping thawed, divided


Pour 1/4 cup caramel topping into crust; sprinkle with 1/2 nuts
Beat pudding mixes, milk, pumpkin and spices with whisk until
blended.Stir in 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip. Spoon into crust.
Refrigerate 1 hour. Top with remaining Cool Whip, caramel topping and nuts
just before serving. I just made this pie, it was so yummy and rich!

Magic Mousse-
1 (6 ounce) package instant chocolate pudding
3 cups milk
1/2 cup powdered sugar
3 cups fresh whipped cream or frozen whipped topping(thawed), divided
Grated chocolate
toasted nuts (optional)

Make pudding according to package directions, using the 3 cups milk.
Let set in refrigerator about 15 minutes.Stir powdered sugar into chilled pudding.
Fold 2 cups of the whipped cream into chilled pudding.Place in individual dessert cups/glasses. Top each with a dollop of remaining whipped cream, grated chocolate, toasted nuts, if desired. Makes 6 servings. This mousse is so easy. I 've made  chocolate mousse the french style, which is out of this world, however it takes a long time to make.This recipe is a snap to make and so decadent!

Gingerbread Cake-
 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for pan
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour, plus more for pan
1 cup boiling water
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 tablespoon ground  ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon  ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
2/3 cup packed dark-brown sugar
1 cup unsulfured molasses
2 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting


Preheat the oven to 350' F. With a rack in the center. Butter and flour a 9x13 inch pan,tapping out excess;set aside. In a bowl, combine the boiling water and baking soda; set aside. In a bowl, sift together the flour,ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder;set aside.  In a bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment,cream butter on medium  until light. Beat in brown sugar until fluffy, 3 minutes. On low, beat in molasses, baking-soda mixture and flour mixture.  Beat in eggs, one at a time. Pour batter into pan; bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean,30 to 40 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.Gingerbread will keep at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap, several days.
 I dream of this cake the first start of fall!

White Chocolate Pretzel Snack-
1/2 cup pretzel sticks
1/2 cup salted peanuts
1/2 cup crisp rice cereal
4 squares (1 ounce each) white baking chocolate
1 teaspoon shortening


In a large bowl, combine the pretzels, peanuts and cereal. In a microwave, melt chocolate
and shortening, stir until smooth. Pour over pretzel mixture; toss to coat evenly. Drop by heaping tablespoonfuls onto waxed paper; cool.