This and that: 2014

Thursday, December 25, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party - Christmas Edition

Hope everyone had a great Christmas and not too stuffed to come party with us tonight... We are still ready to party and see all your great uses for any leftovers you may have...

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas






May the peace and blessings
of Christmas be yours
And may the coming year
be filled with happiness.



Friday, December 19, 2014

Gingerbread Eggnog Mocha Latte

I have to tell you a secret... I don't like the taste of eggnog alone..... BUT...  I do like the taste of it in baking and in my coffee.  And what could be better for you Christmas morning coffee then a Gingerbread Eggnog Mocha Latte.

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #126

One week to Christmas are you prepared?  Me, I am not really going to be doing anything special, so I guess I am ready.  Although I haven't really got lots done, I love checking out all the links that have been left on our parties.  I am sure there will be more today...

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Homemade Christmas Ornaments

I love to make ornaments.  For years I would make my nieces and nephews a new ornament each year.  This year I have made a couple of different ones that I want to share with you.  They are all easy to make.

Monday, December 15, 2014

Gingerbread House ~ Blogger's Christmas Series #4

Gingerbread House

Gingerbread houses originated in Germany in the 1600's.  They became even more popular after the story of Hansel and Gretel written by the Brothers Grimm.  No one knows for sure if gingerbread houses came first or if the story came first.


Building a gingerbread house is a tradition in many houses.  Although these houses are not always made of gingerbread anymore.  You can make them using graham crackers, shredded wheat and even make a house out of non-edible materials like cardboard and sticks.

There are many recipes for gingerbread that you can use, over the years that I have made my own gingerbread I have used a couple of recipes.  The recipe that I used to make the above gingerbread houses was this one - as I didn't use molasses in this recipe, the houses were lighter.

My plans for the gingerbread houses that I made this year was to make a small houses that can sit on a side of a cup but I made them too big, and I also didn't cut the door big enough so they wouldn't sit on the side of a cup.  So it is back to the drawing board for me... Hopefully next year they will work out the way I wanted them too.


I am not a decorator and I do not profess that I know what I am doing, but I do like to make these houses.  I like to use royal icing when I made my gingerbread house as I find it hardens fast.  I also do my houses in stages.  First "gluing" the pieces together and then doing the decorating.


I made this house above a couple of years ago.  I did a post and showed how I decorated it.  Do you make gingerbread houses?

This post is the last of Blogger's Christmas Series.  Along with myself there are many other awesome bloggers that have written blogs for this series.  I hope that they have given you some inspiration to help you with your Christmas preparations.






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Friday, December 12, 2014

Walnut Grape Salad

This recipe is awesome as it can be used as a salad or you can use it as a dessert.  It is sweet with just the right amount of crunch.  It is easy to make... What can be better? especially during the Christmas season when you are so busy.

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #125

How is your Christmas preparation going?  Do you still need some recipes and crafts ideas?  Then you came to the right places because it is time for.....

Monday, December 8, 2014

Decorating for Christmas - Blogger Christmas Series #3

Have you started decorating for Christmas yet? ~ Or are you like me and not have a stitch of decorating done this year.  I usually have at least something done but not this year.  So instead of showing you my decorations, I am going to be showing some of the decoration and how I decorated in past years.
Blogger's Christmas Series #3- Decorating for Christmas  Santa, Nativity Scene, Candles

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #124

Are you busy getting ready for Christmas?  Need some inspiration for food and crafts?  Look no further, you can get lost of inspiration here at Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party.

Gingerbread Eggnog Latte Cookies ~ Fill the Cookie Jar

As I was trying to figure out what type of cookie I should make this month to Fill the Cookie Jar with I had found a cookie that was in a shape of a cup.  It was made with premade cookie dough and used chocolate as the latte and a pretzel as the handle.  And that is how this cookie began......

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Oh Christmas Tree ~Blogger Christmas Series Blog Hop #2

Do you put up a real or an artificial tree?  If you put a real tree do you go out and cut down your own or buy one off the lot?  For my second post of the Blogger Christmas Series I am going to show you some of the Trees I have decorated and some of the trees around my town.


Monday, December 1, 2014

PIkkupullat ~ Finnish Sweet Buns

Last week my furnace decided to that it needed to take a break.  While I was waiting for the repairman to come ~ and as the house got colder and colder I decided to do some baking.  Sweet bread making as that way I could keep the oven on for a long period of time.  Instead of making my pulla into loaves, I decided to make them into "Pikkupullat" ~ small buns.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #123

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American Friends.
I hope that you are not all to stuffed or out starting early Black Friday shopping...
to join our
Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party.
Link up your favorite recipes, crafts or DIY

Monday, November 24, 2014

Blogger Christmas Series Blog Hop #1

I am so excited to let you know that I have joined a wonderful group of bloggers to bring you Blogger Christmas Series Blog Hop.  I hope that this series will give you inspiration with your Christmas preparation.  My first post in this series is about Christmas Past.
Blogger Christmas Series -- Christmas Past/ This and That #familytradtions

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #122

Hope everyone is having a great week and not living in a deep freeze or under snow banks.  Right now I feel that we are in both here.
So grab your coffee, tea, hot chocolate or whatever you need to keep you warm and let's party...

Citrus Breaded Tilapia with Citrus Salad ~ CIC



It is time again for our Crazy Ingredient Challenge.
This month our ingredients are Orange (or Citrus) and Breadcrumbs.

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

It's All Greek To Me - Bulgar Wheat Salad and giveaway

I am so excited to be part of the Fall Tour for a wonderful cookbook It's All Greek To Me by Debbie Matenopoulos.
Disclosure: I was given the book to review and all opinions of this cookbook are my own.
#FallForGreek

Monday, November 17, 2014

Fall Foliage Wreath

Fall is one of my favorite seasons.  I love the changing of the colours and living up here in the UP it is magnificent.  We all know that even though this season is beautiful,  colours only last for a short while and very soon the trees are bare and all those colours are fluttering to the ground.  One way to preserve all this beauty is to make a wreath with the flowers and foliage.

Friday, November 14, 2014

Something to be Thankful For (free printable)

Thanksgiving is approaching.  A time to be thankful for all that we have and have been given to us.  I have created a picture that you can download and print.  All pictures are slightly different and are 8 X 10 printables.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #121

Digging myself out of the snowbank so that we can have a great party!  I can't wait to see what you will bring to our.... Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party.

Thursday, November 6, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #120

I have made it home.. after going through and visiting 7 states and 1 province.  I took lots and lots of pictures and hope to share some with you.  First, it is Thursday and Thursday means ....

Fill the Cookie Jar with Biscoff Chai Cookies

Can you believe that it is already November?  The only great thing about the beginning of the month that it is time to Fill the Cookie Jar again.  This month's theme is Thanksgiving.  Do you have a favorite cookie that you serve on Thanksgiving?

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Goat Burger

Goat meat is widely consumed in most countries except America.  I wonder why is that?  Is there a reason that you don't eat goat meat?  I do know that for myself I probably would never eat goat if it wasn't for my husband.

Thursday, October 30, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #119

I hope that you are having a great week... I am as I am on vacay... Finally I am able to get away and relax.  It has been a great week and I hope to post of the places I have been and the things that I saw soon... But first we need to partay... with

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Vampire's Blood for Halloween

I am not a Halloween person but this year I have done a few crafts for this holiday and decided that I wanted to make a drink.  I first want to make something with candy corn as that is my favorite Halloween candy but I couldn't figure out how to make the colours to stay layered.

Monday, October 20, 2014

Pumpkin Bacon Ratatouille - #CIC


I was excited when I saw that pumpkin what one of the ingredients for this month's Crazy Ingredient Challenge.  I wasn't sure if I would have time this month to make my dish but luckily I did and it was AMAZING or at least I thought so.


Friday, October 17, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky party #117

Have you ever had weeks where you feel that you are so far behind?  I am having that kind of week one this week.  I feel that every step I take forward, I am taking two or three steps backward.   That being said my party is finally getting done and posted.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Salted Caramel Pumpkin Chocolate Latte


What does Salted Caramel, Maxwell House International Latte and Green Mountain Coffee - Pumpkin Spice have in common?   You guessed it... An AWESOME SUPBERB LATTE perfect for Autumn.




Monday, October 13, 2014

The Princess & Her Cowboys Birthday Giveway



I have joined up with some awesome bloggers to help  Britney from The Princess & Her Cowboys to celebrate her birthday.  We are celebrating it with a great giveaway.







Saturday, October 11, 2014

Happy Thanksgiving Canada



This weekend is Canadian Thanksgiving and I am sure all my Canadian family and friends are gathering together and enjoying a turkey meal or two.  As we enjoy food, family,friends and fun do we remember what Thanksgiving is all about?

Thursday, October 9, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #116

It is Thursday and guess what that means?  It is time once again for Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party.  We had a wonderful party last week and I hope you enjoyed checking out all the links as much as I do.

Monday, October 6, 2014

Thursday, October 2, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #115

Two years ago we had a Crocktober Party and it was awesome, so we decided to do it again... I know that you have more crock pot/ slow cooker recipes.... I have seen them floating over the social media. I can't wait to see what you will bring to the party.

M&M Candy Corn Cookie Bars to #fillthecookiejar

I can't believe that it has been a month ago since I was writing up my post for Fill the Cookie Jar. These months are passing by so quickly.  October is one of my favorite months.. I love all the autumn colours and the crispness in the air. It is also the month of Halloween.  I am not so much  a Halloween person but I love all the Halloween candy that have been floating around.  My favorite being Candy Corn.

Monday, September 29, 2014

Apple Chai Latte

What are your favorite thing about fall?
Apples and Pumpkins are one of my favorite parts of fall...
Along with the changing of colours..

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Fall Tablescape

Fall is here.
One of my favorite seasons.
I love the fall colours..  
and I love decorating for fall.

Monday, September 22, 2014

Jamie at Home Cookbook Review

A couple of months ago I joined a group that does a cookbook review each week.   It has been fun checking out new cookbooks and making some of the recipes.  I do have to tell you that I vary seldom make a recipes as it is written but with these reviews I am trying hard to do just that.  This month we are reviewing Jamie at Home.

Saturday, September 20, 2014

Apple Basil Chicken Panini ~ CIC

Fall is in the air here in the UP.  We are seeing the leaves turning colours and falling quickly to the ground.  I love this time of year, the crispness in the morning, wearing hoodies, pumpkins and apples. Apple is one of the ingredients that we get to work with this month for our Crazy Ingredient Challenge.

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #113

Thursday again, where does the time go?  I have had a busy, busy week, it just doesn't seem like I have enough time to get everything I want done.  I wish that I could clone myself or at least a few more hours in my day... Do you feel like that at all?   But I do have time for .....

Monday, September 15, 2014

DIY Tablet Cover - No Sew

After making my Burlap Place Mats, all I can think about is painting on fabrics.  I enjoyed making them and when I saw a homemade cover for an I-pad in a magazine, I just knew what my next project was going to be.

Friday, September 12, 2014

Burlap Place Mats

Something I have always done is place lines on my dining room table, either by using place mats or tablecloths or sometimes both.  I have always wanted to make my own and I have had the chance with the help of DecoArt.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #112

I can't believe that it is already Thursday... I am not sure where the days and the time go as I don't seem to get very much accomplished these days.  Although it is always fun to see Thursday come around as it is time to.... Party...

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

National Waffle Week

Do you know that I really never liked waffles?  I would eat them when they were prepared for me but they weren't my favorite.  Maybe it was because we only ate them with syrup.  We received a Belgium Waffle Maker for a wedding present and my tastes changed....

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #111


September started out being wonderful, warm and sunny but now that we are on the fourth day we have rain and thunder.. is summer over?  I hope not! there still is a possibility that we can have some great weather. Whether there is good or bad weather it is always time for....

Fill the Cookie Jar with Healthy Pumpkin Unbakes

Fall makes me think of leaves turning colours, cooler weather (although we haven't had too much warm weather here), pumpkins, apples and bunny hugs.   September brings fall and it is also Health awareness month.  So why am I talking about fall and health because it is Fill the Cookie Jar time and I am bringing health and fall together.

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Spicy Mexican Coffee

As we start looking towards fall and cooler temperatures, I for one start thinking of warm drinks that can warm me up from the inside out.  Drinks like coffee, hot chocolate, apple ciders and maybe even one with a little kick that can spice up your life.

Thursday, August 28, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #110

Did you have a good week? 
Bake any scrumptious meals or desserts?
I hope that you will join us again this week and bring all your wonderful recipes.
  I love checking all that yummy goodness.

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Iced Chai Latte with Cinnamon Dolce Syrup

One of my favorite teas is Chai.. I am a big fan of all the spices that make up a good chai ~ cinnamon, nutmeg, anise, cardamom and a little peppercorn.  It smells so wonderful as it is brewing and I have had many people ask me what I am drinking.


Friday, August 22, 2014

Asiago Honey Garlic Turkey Panini

At the beginning of the month I shared with you that I received some product from a new company (or at least new to me) called Gourmet Warehouse.  Today I want to share with you a panini sandwich that I made with one of their injectables.

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party #109

I am not sure what happened last week, I didn't plan on skipping out complete but all of a sudden it was the middle of the night on Friday and I hadn't even written my party post.. and so because I was so late I didn't post the party at all.. I apologize to those that come over to see all the great recipes that are linked up.

Crazy Ingredient Challenge - Egg Beet Hashbrown Skillet


It is time to think out of the box and come up with a recipe for the Crazy Ingredient Challenge.  This month's challenge is beets and eggs.

Monday, August 18, 2014

Cookbook Club Review ~The Pioneer Woman Cooks- A Year of Holidays

I have joined a group of great bloggers that review cookbooks each month.  This month we are reviewing Pioneer Woman Cooks- A Year of Holidays.  I am sure I am the only person that has never even looked at one of her recipes. Of course I know who she is but I have never really looked at any of her recipes.

Thursday, August 7, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party

It is Thursday again...
and you know what that means....
Foodie Friend Friday Linky Party

Fill the Cookie Jar with PB & J Sandwich Cookies

Remind me again why I would think making rolled cookies where such a good idea?  I hate making rolled cookies, I am not good at doing them, I don't have the patience to make them... Ok, so that is the reason I don't make them... I asked remind me why I thought it was a good idea?

Monday, August 4, 2014

Oven Cherry Jalapeno BBQ Chicken with Cherry Salsa

I am so excited to tell you about a new company that I have had the opportunity to learn about.  The company is called Gourmet Warehouse and I was given products to try and review.  First before I get into the products and what I have made with them, I have to thank a good friend of mine, Cynthia from Feeding Big  for letting me know about this company.

Friday, August 1, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday {Linky Party}

I am a little late getting my party up and running this week, as I am still running a little behind after having company last week... I need to catch up on some of my missed sleep between working (the dreaded work, things would be so much better if we didn't have to go to work to afford to live right).

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} ~ Barns

Last week I didn't have a post as I was busy with my family.  We spent the week swimming, having bonfires, playing on the beach and touring Quincy mine. So much fun.  But I am back this week with Almost Wordless Wednesday...

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday ~ Linky Party

It has been a busy week for me.. I have family here and we have been spending the time down at the lake.. and yes I am already royally burnt..  I hope that you have had a great summer so far and have done something amazing.

Sunday, July 20, 2014

Friday, July 18, 2014

Iced Mocha Latte Macchiato

Did you know that Macchiato means marked or stained in Italian?  I didn't until I looked it up.  First I was thinking the mark was chocolate or caramel marking on the top of the frothed milk.  Then when I was reading more it is the stained from the espresso or from the steamed milk

Thursday, July 17, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday {Linky Party}

These weeks seem to just fly by... It is Thursday again, time for a new party... Last week was a wonderful party with lots of great recipes.  I hope that you will join us again this week and bring your awesome recipes.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Home Made Summer Cookbook Review

I have joined a group of great bloggers and each month we will be reviewing cookbooks for you.  This month we are reviewing Home Made Summer by Yvette Van Boven.

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday{w/ link-up} ~ Badou, Togo Waterfall

It is time to link up to my Almost Wordless Wednesday.  This week, I thought I would bring you over to Badou Togo to the Water Falls of Aklowa.

Monday, July 14, 2014

Red Iced Tea

If you have been following me on any of my social media you know that I love, love teas.  Just about any kind of tea... cold, hot or in between.

Saturday, July 12, 2014

Blog Train and a Picnic

We are going on a picnic and have brought a  lot of yummy recipes with us. 
What do you like to bring on you with you when you go on picnic?
Are you someone who is very elaborate or do you just pack simple?

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday {Linky Party}

Does the weeks go by as fast for you as they do for me?  It seems like it was only yesterday that I was writing my post for last week and it is already to do another party.  We had a wonderful party last week and I was so happy to see so many recipes linked up with the July 4th weekend going on.

Seasoned Pita Bread

I have wanted to make pita bread for a long time.  I finally did it and I think it turned out wonderfully.  It was pretty easy to make and you can have fresh pitas without having to even heat up your house.

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} ~ Elephants

I am obsessed with elephants.  Not sure why I am so obsessed with them.. but I am.  Maybe it is because they are so magnificent.

Quinoa Salad and Sunbutter Dressing

I was given the recipe for the Sunbutter Dressing from a friend and decided to make a Quinoa Salad to go with it.  The dressing makes about 2/3 cup and I only used a small amount for my salad.

Thursday, July 3, 2014

Foodie Friend Friday Linky Party

Are you ready for the 4th?  Do you have your menu planned?  Or do you need some more inspirations? Maybe you will find some here on this week's Foodie Friends Friday Party... and make sure that you check out our Host Favorite from last week's party as there are many great patriotic recipes....

Fill the Cookie Jar ~ Firecracker Macaroons

The beginning of July is very busy Patriotic Week.  With both Canada Day and Interdependence Day both countries are busy getting ready and celebrating their countries.   This week also is Fill the Cookie Jar time.  I decided to make a cookie that would be good both for countries as my heart lies in both.of them.

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} ~ Lightning Storm

We have had some amazing lightning storms over the last few nights.  Sunday night I decided to go out and try and take some pictures.  I only took out my I-phone, really wish I would have used my camera and tripod.

Canada Day - Centerpieces

Happy Canada Day!
Hope you are having a wonderful celebrations today, with great foods and decorations!
Today I am show you how you can make a quick and inexpensive centerpiece for your Canada Day table.

Friday, June 27, 2014

DIY Herb Pots by Painting Terra Cotta Pots

I have tried to paint terra cotta pots before by using spray paints.  They took many layers and the paint peeled after a few years.  I decided to try it again as I want to plant some Herbs this year to use in my baking and cooking and have a pot that I can bring in the house and maybe keep them growing all winter

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party

Last week we had a great 100th celebration party.. So many great recipes were linked up and now we are on to our next 100 parties.. They can only get better and bigger as we go.

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} - African Market

I hope you all have had a good week and are ready for another Almost Wordless Wednesday.  I was so excited to see so many links last week and I hope that you will all join me again this week.

Chai Latte from Calmer Sutra Tea

I was given the chance of tasting Calmer Sutra Tea and I have to say that it is wonderful.  I was given Chai Tea, Peppermyntle Tea and a jar of Calmer Sutra Ginger infused Honey.
  I was not asked to do a review and all opinions are 100% mine

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday are excited to celebrate 100 parties with something great for you!

100 parties.... 100 parties... 100 parties.  Can you tell that I am excited?  I really can't believe that we have been doing these parties for this long... I have loved doing them and seeing all the great links.  There are so many great foodie bloggers with amazing recipes.

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} ~ Full Moon

Are you superstitious?  What about having a full moon on Friday the 13th.. Did it make you nervous?  I love the full moon and this month's full moon was gorgeous.

Baked Doughnuts with Strawberries and Cream

This past weekend I turned the Big 5-0 and if I wanted to have any cake I knew that I would have to make it myself.  We spent all last week in Indianapolis with my brother and his family and during our stay there we had cake twice that my niece made.. simple easy cake that was delicious.

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday with Cheftini

This week I am hosting this party from the wonderful city of Indianapolis.  I have been here since the beginning of the week visiting my brother and his family.  I hope that you will join us with your great recipes.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} ~ Roses

This week I am in Indianapolis or I should say just outside of Indianapolis visiting with my brother and his family.  Their roses are wonderful... So, yes I had to go out and take some pictures of them.

Almost Wordless Wednesday ~ Roses


 I had to do a pencil sketch of it....



This I think is one of my favorite pictures


Although this one is equally cute.. 
We need to start them out young taking pictures. 
 Maybe she will be joining my Almost Wordless Wednesday party soon.


You are invited to participate in Almost Wordless Wednesday
Here is how:
1.  Create a post for that is almost wordless.  Theme is of your choice.  I like to talk so I am sure I will have words in my post but try to keep it to a minimum.
2.  All pictures must be your own or with the permission of photographer.  
3.  Please link back to my post, either by a written link or I have provided a button for you to post.
4.  We all love to have visitors to our blogs, please take time to visit other posts that are linked up.  I will visit all posts but please be patient, it may take me a while depending on my work schedule.
5.  Copy the link of your post and add it to the linky tool below.

I would love if you would follow me through my many social media (although not required) that are listed on the right side of my page.  Let me know if you are following me so I can follow back. 

The most important rule is have fun....
I have the right to delete any posts that are not appropriate.



This and That




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Linked up to : The Real Wordless Wednesday, Oh my Heartsie Girl Wordless Wednesday , Wordless Wednesday @Jenny Evolution

Monday, June 9, 2014

Kid Friendly Recipe ~ Cherry Angel Food Cake

I am so excited to be able to help my niece Mariah into the blogging world.  She has become a great baker and cook.  Today I get to blog about her Cherry Angel Food Cake.  I got the easy part of taking her pictures as she bakes.

Friday, June 6, 2014

Father's Day Craft Ideas

Have you thought what you would like to make for Father's Day?  Do you like to make homemade gifts that you can make with even your small children?  Here are a few ideas that you can do that are inexpensive and with possibly items that you have at home.

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday with Life in Kenzie's Kitchen

I am back, did you miss me?  Last week I missed Foodie Friends Friday as my work schedule as just too busy and I couldn't fit everything in... But I am back and ready to PARTAY! 

Fill the Cookie Jar with Thimble Cookies

Are you a procrastinator like me?  I am such a procrastinator.. once again I left my Fill the Cookie Jar post until the last minute.  You would think I would get them done a head of time.. but no, last day busy baking and fingers crossed that my cookies turned out....

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} ~ Random

This past week has been a busy week for me and my poor blog has been neglected.  Although along with my long working hours, we did get some of the garden planted and we also got our front doors painted.  So we did get a few things accomplished.  This week is going to be different and I am starting the week off right with my Almost Wordless Wednesday Party.

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} ~ Spring is finally here #almostwordlesswednesday

These weeks seem to fly by so fast and once again I am preparing my post for Almost Wordless Wednesday.  I hope you will join me this week with your Almost Wordless Wednesday.

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party with co-host Kelly from A Lovely Life, Indeed

And it is Thursday again... Were does the time go?  But with it being Thursday it is time to party with Foodie Friends Friday.  I hope you will join us again and bring some of your wonderful recipes or browse those that are dropped off from all the wonderful bloggers around the world.

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} ~ Snow in May

I hope you will join me again this week for Almost Wordless Wednesday link up.  I have enjoyed having you here and would love if you would share this party with your friends and followers.  I love taking pictures and this is one way I can share them with you... although sometimes they don't turn out as I want to or the way I want them to,  like these ones.

Crazy Ingredient Challenge - Wasabi and Grapefruit


Are you a procrastinator like me?  I am sure that I have talked about this before, but here I am just before the day I need to post this, making my recipe... Sure glad that it turned out as I didn't have a back up plan.

Friday, May 16, 2014

Cruise to Useppa Island

If you have been following my blog, you know that myself and two of my friends headed to Florida at the end of April to celebrated our upcoming 50th birthdays.  One of the things we did on our trip was go on a cruise to Useppa Island.

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday with Guest co-host Debi from Life Currents

Always excited for a new Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party.  Last week we had such great recipes linked up.  Hope you bring over a few yourself.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} - South Seas Island Resort ~ A Birder's Paradise

Glad that you are joining me again for Almost Wordless Wednesday.   A place where you can show your pictures and say a little bit about it.  Last week I was so excited to see other's join and I hope that each week this link-up will get bigger.  The Link is at the bottom of the post.

Flow by Simpleware Cutting Board and a Recipe

I am always excited to bring to you my readers something that I think is wonderful.  For one thing I like to know about products from others before I try them and I am sure you are the same.

Monday, May 12, 2014

Driving in style with a Kia Soul !

If you have been following any of my social media, you will know that I was fortunate enough to travel to Captiva Island to celebrate a couple of friends and my upcoming 50th birthday, but did you know we were able to do it in style with a Kia Soul !

Friday, May 9, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday ~ Linky Party

Where does the time go?  It is already Friday morning and I am just getting my post ready... and I am sure there are already great recipes linked up.. So hope you will join me and link up some of your wonderful recipes.

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Flower Cookies for Momma ~ #fillthecookiejar #mothersday

It's time to fill the cookie jar again... and mine is getting a bit empty.  This month's theme is mom's favorite cookies... Although that it isn't really what I did as I was thinking the theme was cookies for mother's day

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday {link-up} - Sunrise At South Seas Island Resort

Sorry, I didn't get my Almost Wordless Wednesday Post done last week but I was vacationing at South Seas Island Resort,  located on Gulf of Mexico on Captiva Island.  A perfect place for a photographer....

Monday, May 5, 2014

Fun, Sun and South Seas Island Resort

This past week two friends and myself headed off to Captiva Island, Florida to celebrate our 50th Birthdays. We were lucky enough to be able to spend it at South Seas Island Resort...  South Seas Island Resort is located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico on Captiva Island.

Thursday, May 1, 2014

$450 Craft Dictator Blogiversary Giveaway

So excited to bring you a great giveaway to celebrate Craft Dictator's Blogiversary

Friday, April 25, 2014

Zucchini Bread with Chocolate and Crystallized Ginger

National Zucchini Bread Day

Today is National Zucchini Bread Day.  I love baking with zucchini, breads seem to be so much moister when I use it.  In the fall I always freeze zucchini in one cup amounts to be able to use throughout the rest of the year.  When I thaw it out, I do remove some of the liquid as freezing it does bring more liquid.

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party ~ Surprise us and Bring a friend

It is Thursday again and the week's are just flying by.. But for me the next couple of days can come quickly as on Saturday morning I am flying to Florida to spend time at South Seas Resort with a couple of girl friends.. Can't wait for some sun and fun times.. Watch for pictures and details of my trip.. But back to today and our Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party.

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Ginger Honey Apple Sauce

First, I have to say that I love being a blogger and I love being able to try new products and bring them to my readers.  It makes my day when my readers let me know that they have tried the product on my recommendations.  Today I have a new product for you.

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday (link up) ~ National Jelly Bean Day

Another week has flown by and it is time for Almost Wordless Wednesday.  Last week was my first week and I was excited to get one participate.  Thank you so much Jeannie from For What it's Worth for joining me  for joining me.  I hope that more will come as the time goes on.

Sunday, April 20, 2014

Crazy Ingredient Challenge - Lemon Peep Milkshake




It is that time of the month again... To think outside of the box and make a recipe with ingredients that are given to us...

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday ~ Easter Party #foodiefriendsfriday

Easter is finally here, doesn't it seem like that it has taken a long time to get here... Although I hope the Easter Bunny doesn't get stuck in a snow bank when he is delivering his treats this year.

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday - Morning Sunlight #WordlessWednesday

This will be the first of my Almost Wordless Wednesday Link-Up.
  I hope that you will all join me each week and bring your almost wordless post.  

Almost Wordless Wednesday

This morning we woke up to snow... What a way to start our Anniversary.  8 years ago today I got married in Togo, West Africa and the weather was quit different ~ way too warm and no thoughts of snow in the forecast.  I wasn't too impressed to see the new snow on the ground but at least so far it is only a dusting but the sky was magnificent.  It was a bluish - purple colour and even though it was snowing the sun was big and bright in the sky.  
 These pictures don't do it justice... but I loved how the sun was coming through the tree branches.







Pencil sketch done in Picasa 3


You are invited to participate in Almost Wordless Wednesday
Here is how:
1.  Create a post for that is almost wordless.  Theme is of your choice.  I like to talk so I am sure I will have words in my post but try to keep it to a minimum.
2.  All pictures must be your own or with the permission of photographer.  
3.  Please link back to my post, either by a written link or I have provided a button for you to post.
4.  We all love to have visitors to our blogs, please take time to visit other posts that are linked up.  I will visit all posts but please be patient, it may take me a while depending on my work schedule.
5.  Copy the link of your post and add it to the linky tool below.

I would love if you would follow me through my many social media (although not required) that are listed on the right side of my page.  Let me know if you are following me so I can follow back. 

The most important rule is have fun....
I have the right to delete any posts that are not appropriate.




This and That


You will see the links once you click the InLinkz Link up
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Button was made by Grab My Button

Friday, April 11, 2014

Colourful Birds for Spring Decorating

Do you decorate for Spring or Easter?  Here are some colourful birds that you can make with felt that are cheap and easy to make.  They are also a kid friendly craft that can be made with minimal help depending on the age of the child.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party ~ Copy Cat Recipes

We all have some Copy Cat Recipes, whether it is food that we have ate at restaurants, recipes that we have gotten from friends or family, or recipes that we have changed that we have found from other bloggers or on line.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Almost Wordless Wednesday ~ Blue Scarf in the Wind

Now that Sunlit Sundays are over until next winter.  I am going to try and keep up with my photography posts each week.  I am also thinking of making this into a link party too.. Hopefully by next week I will have everything ready.

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Salmon with Maggi-Ginger Glaze

We eat a lot of salmon.  I usually buy smoked salmon but every once in a while I will buy some fresh salmon. The best way to cook it in my way of thinking is by pan searing it..

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday ~ Foods from our Childhood Party #foodiefriendfriday

I am really not sure where the days of the week have gone as it is already Thursday night and time to party with Foodie Friends Friday again.

Fill the Cookie Jar with Bird's Nest Cookies #fillthecookiejar

 April is here and so is spring...  Well maybe not so much if I look outside of the windows, but I am pretending.  With spring comes Easter and I love Easter and all the bright colours and candies...

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Beware Foods May Not be What They Seem to Be #AprilFool's Day

Are you ready to sink your teeth into some great food today?  You just may be surprised to find out what you think is really one thing is something totally different....

Sunday, March 30, 2014

How does a Yooper know that Spring is Here?

This is the last week of Sunlit Sunday over at My Little Home and Garden.  I have been able to participate each week with something that has brought sunlight to my little world here in Upper Michigan.. sometimes it was the sun but not every week.....

Friday, March 28, 2014

Decorating with Crochet Easter Eggs #Crafts #Easter

Although spring really hasn't come here to the UP, I decided I needed to get some  colour into our house.  So I have started to do some of my decorating for Easter...

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday ~ Foods that make us Smile #foodiefriendsfriday

I hope that you enjoyed our last week's party when we played Tag ~ You're It.   Was fun to bring a friend along.  This week we are having another fun party.....

Monday, March 24, 2014

Avocado Tomato Chicken

We seem to eat a lot of chicken and because of that I am always looking for new and wonderful recipes so that our meals don't always taste the same.   Along with chicken recipes, I am also looking for wonderful flavours and spices to add to the recipes.

Sunday, March 23, 2014

Sunlit Sunday ~ Sun through the house


                  




Sunlit Sunday is coming to an end.  I think after this week, there is one more week to go.  I will be sad to see it go and have had fun trying to come up with ideas to have some....

Sunlight during this long and dreary winter 

Friday, March 21, 2014

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday ~ Bring a Friend Party

The first day of spring, and all is well... Well, We still have mounds and mounds and mounds of snow everywhere but today the sun is shining brightly and it looks wonderful.  This weeks #foodiefriendsfriday party we want you to bring a friend with you...

Monday, March 17, 2014

Orange Mint Frappe

I love to make specialty drinks as they are much cheaper making them at home... and you don't have to go out to get them, so it is a win-win solution.  This drink would also be perfect for breakfast or anytime that you need a little pick me up.

Signs of Spring?





Spring is in three days and we are once again under a Winter Storm Watch... Is spring ever going to come?

Friday, March 14, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday - No Rule Party

This week has been a busy one for me and I am late getting my party posted.  This week we are having a No Rule Party - anything goes. 

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Pineapple Coconut Dessert

I am a big fan of Taste of Home Cookbooks and have many of them.  I always feel that their cookbooks are tried and true.  A couple of weeks ago my hubby took one of the cookbooks down and was thumbing through it and telling me all of the recipes he thought I should try.......

Monday, March 10, 2014

Spring Into Cash


Welcome to the Spring Into Cash Sweepstakes!

Spring is my favorite season..
It is a time of new growth, new beginnings and a time of rejuvenation.
I love to see the buds opening up on the trees, flowers popping up through the ground and the green grass.

Ice Palace

This past week I headed over to Wausau Wisconsin for a conference.  My biggest mistake was not to take my camera with me.  So all of these pictures are taken on my phone.  It seemed that every time I stopped to take pictures the clouds would decided that was the best time to cover the sun... So I apologize as these pictures are not the best.



Michigan in my review mirror
As I was driving the blue skies in the mirror beckoned me to stop and take pictures.
To my dismay the view just wasn't the same on the side of the road.... 
Ice Palace - This and That

Friday, March 7, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday ~ St Patrick's Day Party

Is green your favorite colour... Then this party is for you... For it is a St Patrick's Day Party and Green is the colour.

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Fill the Cookie Jar with Shamrock Pretzel Twists

I have to apologize as I didn't get any cookies made for this month's Fill the Cookie Jar.  I had so many ideas to do but before I knew it the day came up and I didn't anything done.

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Chocolate Banana Smoothie

Chocolate and Banana are a must I think.  To put them together in a smoothie... Oh Yes!  Have it for breakfast..... Well of course you can.....

Sunday, March 2, 2014

A little Sunlight in My Week

This has been quite a week, we started out with the blizzards of all blizzards, snow and high winds that lasted all weekend.

Thursday, February 27, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party ~ Use your Noodle

I missed last week's party but am back for this week.  I hope that you enjoyed the Potato Party last week, there were lots of  great links.  This week's party is all about noodles...


Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Monday, February 24, 2014

Starbucks Verismo 580 Review

I have to say that I was so excited when I received the email asking if I would like to review the Starbucks Verismo 580  from Staples.  I have always wanted an  machine that I can make my own espressos and lattes.  With the espresso pods and milk pods I can now make my own.

Sunday, February 23, 2014

Sun Streaks in the Snow

We are just coming out of a big snow storm/blizzard and have spent the last 3 days shoveling and moving snow.  Hubby would shovel it on top of the already 5 feet of snow that we have in our yard.  Climb up the bank and move it further down the way so that we can put more.  The life of living in the U.P. and every day I wonder why....

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Crazy Ingredient Challenge ~ Strawberries and Mustard



Have you ever made something and it just didn't turn out the way you wanted it too?  That is what happened when I made my recipe for this month's Crazy Ingredient Challenge.

Sunday, February 16, 2014

Clouds and Blue Skies

We have been most fortunate these last couple of weeks as we have had lots of sun.  This isn't normal for us as it is usually overcast and snowing.  We have gotten lots of snow but for the last couple of weeks it has been down to just a small skiff per day... During the winter the sky even seems bluer then during the summer, I am not sure why that is.  Is it because of the blue against the white of the snow it seems more brilliant?  Or is it just because we don't see it that often that we are amazed by the colour?  It doesn't matter ~ the sky is blue and it is wonderful. 

Friday, February 14, 2014

Pay it Forward ~ Creative

Have you ever pay-it-forward to anyone or had it done to you.  It feels wonderful both ways.  I love paying-it forward to others and one of the ways I have done it is leaving enough money to pay for part of the person bill behind me in the coffee line, dropping off something to the neighbors just because or putting money in the parking meter when I notice the time is running out.  This summer I had a stranger pay-it-forward by leaving a gift card at Tim Horton's for the next person that came to the til.. That person was me.  Leave me a comment if it has ever happened to you or how you have Pay-It-Forward.

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday Linky Party ~ Snack Foods

Hope everyone is staying warm and safe these last couple of days.  Sounds like everyone but us is getting hit by snow, ice or rain... Well we are getting snow but just our usual amount.. nothing to worry about, not like we do here anyways.  With this storm coming through it is a great time to have a party with....

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Steak Dinner

I will be the first to tell you that I  do not make the best steak, but I am coming pretty close to being that person.  And I will let you in on my secret.. although I am sure it is not a secret to those that make steaks perfect...

Sunday, February 9, 2014

Winter Carnival

We have been lucky this week as the sun has been shining brightly most days and we got no extra snow. The downside was that it was very cold..... But even with the dreadful cold, the Tech students still ventured out and made snow and ice sculptures.

Friday, February 7, 2014

Foodie Friends Friday ~ Valentine's Party.


I am a little late getting my party out there this week.  But it is better late then never... This week on Foodie Friends Friday we are going to have a.....

Valentine's Party

And on Valentine's Day all calories cancel each other out.. We are eating for LOVE!  I can't wait to see what you all are bringing to the party.  I have seen some wonderful Valentine's Recipes out there on facebook, google +, pinterest and the rest of the place I search for recipes.  I know that you have some.


Last Week's Highlights

Host Favorites
Head over to the Daily Dish Magazine to check out which recipes were our host favorites... Each week every host picks her favorite recipe.  Then then are featured over at the Daily Dish Magazine on Mondays.  To have your recipe picked you must have a link back to Foodie Friends Friday or the host blog that you linked up with.  Next week your recipe just might be here.
Host Favorites 
My Favorite
I love cheesecake so when I saw this Raspberry Cheesecake Bars from Baker Becky I just fell in love.. Check out the picture and you will too.  Thank you so much Becky for sharing these last week.


Photo Credit:  Baker Becky
Recipes with the Most Clicks
I have to say that I feel a little sheepish even mentioning this but all three of my recipes that I linked up got the most clicks this week.  Thank you so much for all of you checking them out.  I appreciate it.
Apple Cranberry Croissants
Berry Salad with Basil Chia Vinaigrette
Basil Strawberry Lemonade

This Week's Party



 

foodie friends friday, rules


 

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