Winter sangria...What choo talkin' bout Willis?

I'm just going to come out and say it. I like fruity drinks. That's right, the fruitier the better...and sangria? Love the stuff. Usually I make it in the summer, using all kinds of local seasonal summer fruit...but this winter I started a little search for something more winter-like, and Christmas tasting. I didn't have to search very far...a little Pinterest combing, and tada! Winter sangria! Made it for a Christmas party last week, and it didn't take long to disappear. The only problem? I didn't make enough! It's a little sweeter than wine, but not as sweet as the fruity drinks I love...right in the middle. In fact, I used a pinot grigio so it would be too sweet, because most people don't like their drinks as sweet as I do. A big punch bowl o' perfection! Merry Christmas everyone!

Winter Sangria with Limes and Pomegranate

Salted caramel sauce...heaven in a jar!

With the economy the way it is, there has never been a better time to stretch your crafty wings, and DIY your holiday gifts. I was talking to my mom this morning, reminiscing about Christmas a couple of years ago...the house cleaners would show up and scrub my house from top to bottom, and the teachers gift baskets were filled with Starbucks cards and gourmet goodies. These days, I'm the one scrubbing the house, and everything in the teacher baskets was crafted by me or the kids. These are just the times...everyone is scrimping by, spending a little less, shopping locally to save on shipping, and coming up with their own gift ideas. But really, is that such a bad thing? (yes on the house cleaners.....I miss you...come back to me...:(....) but as I looked at the kids teacher gifts, they were wrapped by the kids, with little handmade ornaments tucked in, peppermint bark from our own kitchen, stacks of coasters made by the kids, $1 mugs from Walmart, (that's right...I went to Walmart...times they are a changin',) and my newest treasure...homemade salted caramel sauce...and I actually had a thought...which is rare because who has time to think these days...but isn't that exactly what is at the heart of Christmas? Giving that takes effort, and love, and thought...not just some random thing bought off the internet? There is no better time to whip something up with love in your kitchen, and salted caramel is all the rage. I have to say, I see why. I love this stuff in every form. Salted caramel cupcakes, salted caramel frappucinos, salted caramel cake...I opted to make just salted caramel sauce, as you can really use it for anything. Dip some apples into it, pour it over ice cream, add it to your coffee, or just eat it with a spoon. Salty and sweet is my favorite combination, and this sauce gets it just right! I made up my own recipe, based on a couple of others I had found, then I doubled it , and poured it into mini canning jars, and the kids helped make labels. So festive!



Salted Caramel Sauce

1 cup water
2 cups sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup butter
1/2 to 1 tsp course sea salt or fleur de sel

Pour water into a sauce pan, then pour sugar into the middle of the pan, DO NOT STIR. Let it simmer and cook for around 20 minutes or so, until sugar is completely dissolved, and the mixture starts to turn a little yellow. Add the cream, but watch out, it wants to bubble over quickly, so watch the heat. In another small sauce pan, melt butter and brown sugar. Stir into mixture and continue to cook for a few minutes until it gets a little thicker. Remove from heat. (mixture will thicken up as it cools.) Add sea salt to taste. I pour sauce into a big measuring cup so it's easier to pour into jars, which you should do while it's still pretty warm. Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Heat in microwave or stove top before serving. As I said earlier, I doubled this recipe, and it made enough for about 5 plus small jelly jars. Enjoy, and Merry Merry Christmas!

Christmas stockings...so easy to make!

My dining room is a far different room than any of the other rooms in my house. Where I stayed light and airy in most of my living spaces, the dining room is a mix of dark wood, black, and animal print. It has dark reddish walls, and an orange ceiling. That's right. I said orange. Don't freak out. It's not all Snooky...I promise. It has a large stone fireplace, and I have been hanging the same old burgundy velvet stockings on there since the dawn of time. Every year, I say, "those don't match, we need new stockings...something funky..." and my husband says, "they're red, the walls are red, they match." Ummmm, we all know that all reds are not created equally. Burgundy, and red....they do not match. It's a common fact in this world. I have been on the look out for replacement stockings for years, never to find exactly what I was looking for. Then it dawned on me. I can make them. It can't be that hard. Right? Well, it wasn't! They took me an hour to make all three. I switched out the old ones, and I loooove the new ones! Exactly, what I was looking for, and $10 for all three!

You will need: 1/3 yard of fabric per stocking
Matching thread
Fur trim, (or any kind of trim for that matter) sold in fabric stores
decorative tassles or fringe (I hate that word)
an old stocking to trace (you would think it wouldn't be that hard to draw a stocking, but mine turned out super freaky
Knowledge of how to thread a sewing machine, and skills to sew a straight line.

First, flip fabric over the backside. Trace your stocking. Trace your stocking the opposite way for the front. Put sides together and sew, keeping it inside out. Do not sew the top together (obviously.) When you are finished, turn the stocking inside out. You can either hand sew the tassles to the fur trim, then hand sew them on to the stocking...or you can do this:

I added a strip of fringe under the fur, and over the stocking, then sewed a line across in matching thread with the machine. Then I turned it to the backside (no one sees that side anyway,) and hand sewed it across, and then down the side. Anyone who has taken a lesson on me about sewing beware....I am known for my 5 minute pillows, free hand crazy, not always in a straight line kind of sewing. I figure, if you have a little common sense, and good guessing skills, no one will study it THAT carefully, right? Quick and crazy is better. For some things. For most things. Anyway, go to the fabric store and find some fabric that inspires you! You still have almost 3 weeks! Happy sewing, and happy holidays!

Homemade peppermint bark, just like Williams-Sonoma!

I have vivid memories of helping my dad deliver plates of homemade cookies to all the neighbors on Christmas Eve. My mom was busy getting the house ready to host Christmas, and my dad would say, "come on Shayne," then give me explicit instructions on what do if some one's visit lasted more than five minutes. We would joke about using a "code word" or pretend I had to go to the bathroom, or the dog was sick, etc. But neither of us had it in us to actually pull out the code word, and we would be gone for a couple of hours. Part of me thinks this was my dad's way of getting him (and me, thanks dad) out of the fifty million other things my mom would have in store for us if we returned too early. Everyone in the neighborhood was always in a great mood, and we would laugh, and chat, and move on to the next house. It's weird how we inherit certain things from our parents, and our siblings inherit others. My sister acquired the love of volunteering at school, the PTA, and all things educational. My brother inherited my mom's work ethic, and I seem to have inherited the love of the holidays. I hand made each of my kids stockings, because that's what my mom did for us. I decorate the day after Thanksgiving. I bake all different holiday cookies...why? Because my mom always did, and her mom always did. I draw the line at home made butter balls, and shining silver, (although my mom comes down at does it for me :)) I also feel the need to deliver something to the neighbors at Christmas...or make my husband and kids do it while I get ready for Christmas. Cookies usually make the list, but a few years ago, I started making peppermint bark. I love the stuff, but realized it costs a crazy amount to buy, but is really easy and inexpensive to make. I have probably tried 5 different recipes over the years, and have settled on one that tastes the most like Williams and Sonoma (my fave bark). It is so good, I keep it in the fridge all holiday season, and long after. By lunchtime, I have usually consumed my weight in peppermint bark. It's addicting, I'm telling you. I have given out the recipe many times, as people seem to love it as much as I do. Make a batch a week, and my Christmas , you'll have enough for the teachers, neighbors, and yourself! I urge you to start your own holiday traditions. These are the things your kids will remember for years to come! Enjoy! Oh, and a little warning, do not, no matter how curious you are...do not, under any circumstances, taste the peppermint extract. You will end up with your mouth under the sink, and the mentholated burning may last for two days. It's minty. That's all I'm saying.

Awesome Peppermint Bark Recipe

Holiday signs...get your craft on this Christmas!

Coming up with craft ideas for the kids for the annual Christmas bazaar at the kids school proves difficult, year after year. Now, two out of my three kids want to have their own table to sell their own goods, so guess who gets to think of the ideas...shop for all the ideas...explain how to make the crafts...then finish the crafts as the kids burn out...then, with a little help...clean up the crafts. And crafting with the kids is fun, why? Exactly? Well, it actually does become worth it seeing their cute little handmade items they are so proud to sell, and then they take the money they make, and shop around the bazaar. They pick out cute little things for their siblings, and usually for me...and I love what they come up with. This year, I decided to help them make some cute wooden Christmas signs to add to all of their ornaments, hand sewn napkins, coasters (see here), and dog treats. But then something happened. I kind of took over the signs and I just kept going. Then, as the signs got cuter and cuter, I started looking for places around my house to hang them. Grace was like "um...mom, aren't we supposed to be selling those? Think of the money we could make..." I prefer to think of all the money we could save, if I just went ahead and kept them, you know...adding to my Christmas decorations for free! Actually, these signs cost around $30 to make all three, but are super sturdy, can be made to match your own decor, or can be given as gifts! They took me around two hours to make, and I am loving them! So, come on! Get crafty, just in time for the holidays!

You will need:

1 1"x6" board from Home Depot (about $5)
wooden letters (found mine at Walmart $1.98 each)
modge podge
Hot glue gun or strong wood glue
paint
picture hangers
primer or white spray paint
glittery or decorative craft paper







Start by laying out the words (I used peace, joy, and noel) on the board and draw lines with a pencil where you need to cut the board into three. Sweet talk your husband, unless you are crafty with the power tools, to make the cuts for you. If neither one of you are comfy with a handsaw or table saw, take it back to home depot, they will cut it for free. Spray primer on all the letters, and the boards, front and sides, (you don't have to spray the back.) After they are dry, paint the board any color you choose. Trace the wooden letters on the backs of decorative paper, and cut out. Play around with setting the paper on top of the letters to get a color combo you like. Paint the sides of the letter to correlate with what paper you are using...thin paper can be modge podged to the letter, and then a thin coat applied over the top. You can also paint the letters and decorate with sparkly glue, polka dots, etc. Heavy paper (I used mostly heavy paper) needs to get glued to the letter with a hot glue gun or wood glue. Then, hot glue your letters onto the board, then add a picture hanger to the back (Home depot $2.50 for three of them), and they are ready to hang! Go girl! Look what you just did!

Sweet Potato Souffle & Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce...

Thanksgiving is almost here, and after many years of trying recipes, there are a couple that remain absolute, all time favorites. Recipes so good you will make them year after year. This sweet potato souffle, is not technically a souffle, as it does not puff up in the oven. I actually got this recipe from my friend's husband...we were invited years ago to an early Thanksgiving at her house, and her husband made this dish, and literally every person at the table asked for the recipe. Now, my relatives ask me for the recipe, and ask that I bring it to Thanksgiving every year, (which is now usually at my house, so I don't have to bring it very far.) Here is the recipe, if you make it...you will thank me.

Sweet Potato Souffle

3 cups peeled and boiled yams
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 beaten eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup melted butter

topping: 1 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup flour
1 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup melted butter

Strain the yams after boiling, and put in a mixing bowl. Add brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, milk, and melted butter. Mix until whipped and pour into casserole dish. For the topping, mix brown sugar, flour, pecans, and melted butter. Crumble over yams and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. I know it's not lo-cal, but people...it's Thanksgiving! You're welcome!



The pumpkin bread pudding was a recipe I found off the internet a few years ago. I had tried at least 4 or 5 bread puddings, and was not thrilled with any of them. I wanted something pumpkiny, and caramely, and warm, and vanilla-ish (all made up words, I know,)...something super memorable. When I found this recipe, I tried it right away, and it was a keeper. My mom, sister, and I can put away a whole pan of this stuff, easy. If there is any left, it's gone for breakfast the next day. This, an apple pie, and a pumpkin cheesecake, and you are good to go this Thanksgiving!

Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

2 1/2 cups half and half
1 15 ounce can pumpkin puree
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
10 cups cubed egg bread (I find mine at Central Market, it's called Ultimate French toast bread)
1/2 cup golden raisins

caramel sauce:

1 1/4 cups packed dark brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Mix half and half, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla in a large bowl. fold in bread cubes. Mix in raisins. Transfer into casserole dish. Let stand 15 minutes, then bake at 350 degrees, until knife comes out clean. Meanwhile, prepare sauce. Whist dark brown sugar and butter over medium heat in a saucepan. After butter melts, stir in heavy cream. Stir until sugar dissolves. Sift powdered sugar over bread pudding, top with caramel sauce and whipping cream. Comfort food at it's best!

Winter is coming!!!

As winter nears, cozy boots are everywhere! As the forecast calls for possible snow, dressing warm is even more important! How to dress warm AND look cute at the same time??? Some winter ideas for casual and dressy...

vest-oldnavy.com $40
hat- Stella Mcartney $60 net-a-porter.com
bag- romwe.com $99
jeans- abercrombie.com $68
tshirt- oldnavy.com
watch- shopbop.com
earrings- windsorstore.com $2.90
boots- Ugg zappos.com $220
hat- oldnavy.com $13
jeans- topshop.com $71
shoes- dsw.com $100
coat- oldnavy.com $79
bag- Madison by coach.com $398

Happy Holidays and stay warm out there people!

Handmade Coasters...so easy, so awesome!

I have seen many tutorials for making coasters lately, and finally decided to give it a try myself. Every year I try to make something to give away as Christmas gifts, and this year...spoiler alert to my friends and family...it's coasters. There are so many ways to make coasters, and I settled on ceramic tile coasters. You can paint them, add a paper cutout, use a sharpie and a stencil...I decided to use the craft paper technique. Now those who know me, know I have a tendency to throw myself into my projects...no one gets fed, no other housework gets done, and it's almost impossible to have a conversation with me while I am in the midst of crafting. It's an all or nothing deal. This is the same reason I won't read Twilight, or any other book for that matter. Sad, I know, there was a time I loved to read, but I have learned my limits as a parent. I have a family who have needs, and I will literally sit there until the book is done. No eating, no sleeping, like some kind of freak. So, usually when I start a project my husband has this nervous thing that happens...like"uh, okay, um, how long will that take?" What he really means is when should I expect to see you emerge from your craft like trance and and be a real person again? Surprisingly, this coaster thing was different. I enlisted the help of Grace and my niece Trenna, and of course I had two other little sets of boy hands trying to help...which brought up this well known conversation..."Honey? How much longer does the game have? Can you take the boys outside? Honey? Anyone? Bueller?" Nothing. But we rocked it out, and they turned out awesome. Here is my tutorial, which is kind of a blend of many tutorials I read:



4 (or more depending on how many sets you are making) ceramic 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 white tiles (home depot-16 cents each)
1 bottle modge podge
decorative craft paper
foam brushes
clear spray lacquer
super strong glue
any color felt (fabric store, about $3 for a yard)
Turn the craft paper over and trace a tile on the back. Cut four of these. Apply a VERY THIN layer of modge podge to completely cover the top of the tile. Let dry for approximately half an hour. Turn tile upside down and trim along edges so there is no over hang. You can also sand the edges for a more distressed look, or cut the square of paper a quarter of an inch smaller than the tile so you have a border. Apply another very thin layer over the top, let dry for about 15 minutes, and repeat 3 or 4 times. The last coat I apply is a little thicker, and I modge podge the edges as well. After they are all dry, lay the coasters out and spray top and edges with lacquer. Wait a few hours and spray again. When completely dry, cut a 3 1/2" X 3 1/2" square of felt and glue to the back. Stack in sets of 4,5, or 6 and tie with ribbon! Gorgeous, professional looking coasters! We made about a hundred coasters, (the girls are going to sell some at the bazaar at school), and it cost about $25 for the total project. I already had paper and modge podge, and it cost about $15 for the tiles, and $10 for two cans of lacquer spray. We made many different color schemes to match different people, and even colored the edges on some with a black sharpie and did some animal print ones to match my dining room. Seriously, so easy and kind of fun!

Lentil and Vegetable Soup...Really? Really.

I don't mean to go all healthy on you...and I know I have been posting quite a few soups lately, but the soup I had yesterday, was, in a word, awesome. Every time I go running with my friend Joni, it is a full on Martha Stewart experience. She lives on a bluff overlooking Puget Sound, on this giant stretch of beach, in a cape cod style, gorgeous home. Every time I come over, she feeds me wonderful organic meals, has fresh flowers from her garden all over her house, and sends me home with lettuce and vegetables from her yard. Yesterday was no different! When I arrived, she had a giant glass of juice, (from her juicer of course :)) kale, swiss chard, lemon, apples, I'm not even sure what was in it, but it was good. During our run, she was talking about this lentil soup she has been making by the pot, and eating for days. She explained to me all the health benefits of lentil, and how it is pure vegetable protein, and not animal protein. In my mind I was thinking..."I'm not sure about the whole lentil thing..." as it has always sounded bland to me. When we got back to her house, she insisted that I try some, and I'm so glad I did! It was so good, and super filling. It was full of vegetables, and had a little middle eastern thing going on. So of course, I had to make a pot of my own today, and we just had it for dinner. It is served with fresh lemon juice squeezed over it, a little Parmesan, cilantro, and a sprinkling of sea salt, and of course we had a little french bread on the side. So many flavors, so easy to make!

Joni's Lentil and Vegetable Soup

4 cloves minced garlic
4 TBS olive oil
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks chopped
2 cups chopped onion (1 red, 1 yellow)
1 (2 cup) package lentils (I used 1/2 green, 1/2 brown organic lentils)
4 1/2 cups water
4 1/2 cups chicken stock
2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp allspice
pinch of cayenne pepper
salt and pepper to taste
2-3 tsp lemon juice
whatever you want to top it with: Parmesan, cilantro, sea salt, sunflower seeds, shredded chicken, sour cream, pumpkin seeds, croutons, yogurt, goat cheese, anything you can think of :)

Saute onions, garlic, celery, carrots, in olive oil until onion is golden brown. Rinse lentils and add them. Add water and broth, cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 40-45 minutes. Puree soup in a blender or food processor before serving. Squeeze lemon on top, sprinkle with sea salt and add any toppings you wish.

Oh, and then, I made these for dessert. I had been eyeing them for awhile and figured since dinner was so healthy, what the heck. Picture Rice Krispy treats on steroids. I know, right? They were sooo good, barely any batter made it to the pan!

Avanlanche Bar recipe

All I want for Christmas is...Panini!

Flipping through the channels last night....it unexpectedly happened...a Christmas commercial. The holidays are officially here. Every year they seem to get earlier and earlier, I should fully expect it, but I always feel a little surprised when I see a full on holiday commercial with snow and jingling, and joy, I always panic a little. Could it really be THAT time again? What about that promise I made to myself in September to start early, and be super prepared this year? Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Christmas...almost as much as I love summer. I always have big plans...holiday parties, dozens of different cookies, homemade gifts...but Christmas comes way too fast, and half of my to do list is shot, only to be traded for things I actually need to get done. No matter how prepared I try to be, the season is chaotic, for everyone. With all of the extra planning, shopping, decorating, and general Christmas fanfare, we still need to cook dinner, which is a chore in and of itself. What's a girl to do? A few years ago I was given a gift from my lovely sister in law...a panini press. I must confess (sorry Sarah) I didn't really put it to use right away. It sat in the back cupboard, and eventually made it out to the cabinets in the garage...until planning a lunch with my sister one day...a group of women were coming, and everyone was bringing a salad. We felt we needed some kind of lunch main dish....my sister said "too bad we don't have a panini press"...and I was like "ummm, duh!" I went out to the garage, dusted that thing off, and have never looked back. My sister in law must know me better than I know myself. It is probably my favorite (one of about 5 favorites) of my kitchen appliances. I love this thing. Now grilled cheese and french dips have gone from being quick dinners, to gourmet, and lunch parties are a no brainer. A great panini with a salad, some fruit and a dessert are all you need. I love to go to the deli at Central Market and see what's on sale. Salami, prosciutto, turkey, ham, provolone, swiss, tomatoes, arugala, pesto, you name it, it can go in a panini. Baguettes, Como bread, focaccia, flat bread... I even saw a fig and sweet potato panini recipe that looked fabulous...and with Thanksgiving on the way, I almost fell out of my chair when I saw this panini recipe made with Thanksgiving leftovers...I'm so trying that this year. You can make breakfast paninis, with eggs and cheese, and hollandiase sauce, you an make rueben's, club's, tuna melts, sky is really the limit. I have the Breville panini press from Williams and Sonoma, and it's an awesome machine. It was on Oprah's favorite things last year, and I can see why! They are a little spendy, but I have seen them on ebay anywhere from $19 to $200, and Williams and Sonoma have them on sale right now for $119. That is an all time low! Anything that cuts a little time off our schedule around Christmas is all good! Here are a few panini recipes I love:

Caprese Panini

Smoked Turkey Panini with Arugula and Mozzarella

Chicken Panini with Pesto and Mozzarella

Thanksgiving Turkey Panini

Happy Holidays!

Simple things we can do to live more organically today...

When I had my first baby, I didn't think too much about the baby wash I used, and opted for a well known baby shampoo that smelled great and had been around for decades...all of the commercials and advertising I had seen throughout the years made my mind feel it was soothing, and comforting and a staple to have in my baby's bath time routine...that is...until I looked up the information on the skin deep database and found out it was a 9 out of 10 on the scale for harsh carcinogens, and included ingredients linked to cancer and allergies. Fabulous. I immediately threw the baby shampoo away and went out and bought the most organic baby soap I could find....one that registered a zero on the scale. In fact I threw away all of my products and replaced them with all natural zero's. I threw myself into decontaminating our bodies, one product at a time. After reading that the average person uses 15 or more cosmetic products a day, including shampoo, hair products, deodorant, cosmetics, lotion, etc. I did a complete overhaul. As time went by, my husband and I both started noticing the kids smelled like oatmeal, or tea tree oil, and didn't seem to be getting super clean. My hair looked flat, and my sea salt deodorant just made me feel, well, salty. Is this what living naturally was supposed to feel like? Maybe I wasn't such a nature girl after all...I was tempted to throw in the towel and revert back to my old products, but decided if we really use that many products a day, and at least half of them are dangerously high in carcinogens, what is that doing to our bodies over time? I decided to experiment to try and find products I like, that actually work. I started with the baby wash, and tried at least five or six products, before settling on good old Burt's Bee's baby wash. It smelled great, and the kids really seemed clean. I also love the Aveeno wash, and although they are a 2 on the scale, I feel that is a huge improvement. I moved on to facial products, shampoo and conditioner, and deodorant. Slowly, I have taken my family from mostly 7's, 8's and 9's, to mostly 0-3's, and I actually feel happy with the results. Between that, and switching my detergent to a great smelling eco friendly type (Ecos at Costco...love it!) and switching my cleaning products to environmentally friendly green products...see this post...and changing up their lunchbox gear...see this post...I feel like I have taken huge leaps and bounds in cleaning up our home and our lives, and downgrading the amount of toxins we are exposed to, therefore promoting a healthier future for my kids and the whole family...and you know what? It was not that daunting, or expensive. It was actually easy and maintainable! If you have not been to the skin deep database, I would recommend you go there...you can literally type in any product by name, and find out about the toxicity. Make a list of all the products your family uses, and check their rating...I bet you will be shocked, as I was! Replace products as they run out with less toxic products, and you will be well on your way to healthier living! The trick is, don't stress too hard. If you have a face cream you swear by, or love coloring your hair, who cares? Let that be the one thing you keep, as long as you are changing out other products, then you are lessening the overall toxins, don't go too crazy. Find your balance between being healthy and enjoying your life, and just take baby steps in the right direction, and before you know it, you will be healthier, one small change at a time.

Skin Deep Cosmetics database
holidays
A few healthier products that I love:



1) Burt's Bees baby wash and shampoo-smells like apricots and really cleans!

2)Alba Hawaiian products-love the gardenia shampoo and plumeria conditioner, green tea eye gel, coconut milk face wash, pineapple enzyme facial scrub, papaya enzyme facial mask, hibiscus toner, jasmine and vitamin E moisturizer, and lip balms. I also love their kukui nut body oil and sugar scrub. Awesome line.

3)Crystal antiperspirant-made of all natural mineral salt, really works if you don't miss the fresh smell of regular antiperspirant.

4) Aveeno baby was and shampoo-smells great, works great!

5) Pearatin serum by Loma- you will love this! Smooths, protects, repairs...my hairstylist says it literally restores hair to it's perfect condition. I agree!

6) Simplicity shampoo and Intensity conditioner-my hands down favorite natural shampoo...smells like a tropical rainforest and makes hair super soft and clean.

Cheese tortellini sausage soup & homemade mac and cheese

A couple of years ago, on a dark, stormy fall night, my husband was gone on a fishing trip, and I was stressing...a week of being the lone parent...cooking, cleaning, and doing the bedtime routine was wearing on me. I was coming back across the ferry with three hungry, cranky kids, wondering what the heck I was going to make for dinner, when my friend Melissa called. She invited my mom, the kids and I over for dinner, and I was so relieved to not have to cook, I can't even tell you! Melissa lives in this gorgeous house that could easily grace the pages of Coastal Living magazine....(she has the best laundry room...I know that sounds weird, but someday I will post on her perfectly organized, pottery barn like laundry room.) She had a big fat fire going, wine, and the most perfect fall-stormy-night-kind of meal you could dream of...I don't know if it was the fact that my kids were far in another room being entertained, or the fact my husband was coming home the next day to offer some serious kid relief, but my mom and I just sat there drinking our wine in front of the fire, looking at each other like, "man, we really needed this..." She had a giant pot of sausage tortellini soup, a huge autumn salad, homemade Gruyere macaroni and cheese for the kids, (and adults), and toasted french bread with melted mozzarella cheese on top. Total carbfest, but who doesn't need that once in awhile? She had cider, and candles and it was just plain cozy. So cozy that it seems I had to tell you all about it instead of just posting the recipes....I have recreated this several times over the last couple of years at my own house, and I think you should too! Here's to fall stormy nights!

The soup came from the Celebrate the Rain cookbook

Cheese Tortellini Soup with White Beans, Kielbasa, and Spinach
2 Tbs olive oil
12 ounces thinly sliced, fully cooked, smoke kielbasa sausage
1/2 cup diced onion
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 tsp chopped thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
scant 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, or to taste
5 cans (15 ounces each) chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14 1/2 ounces) with liquid
1 can cannellini white beans (15 ounces) rinsed and drained
1 package (9 ounces) fresh cheese tortellini
1/2 bunch fresh spinach, rinsed, dried and tough stems removed
grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or other large pot over medium-high heat. Add kielbasa, onion, garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes, and saute until browned, about 12 minutes (if garlic seems to be getting too brown, reduce heat to medium to avoid burning).
Add the broth and tomatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the beans and tortellini to the soup. Simmer until the pasta is just tender to the bite, about 10 minutes. Stir in the spinach and turn off the heat. Let stand about 2 minutes. Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan before serving. Makes about 6 servings.

Homemade Gruyere Mac and Cheese

Kosher salt
vegetable oil
1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi (corkscrew pasta)
1 quart whole milk
8 Tbs (1 stick) unsalted butter
1/2 cup all purpose flour
12 ounces Gruyere cheese grated (about 4 cups)
8 ounces extra sharp cheddar grated (about 2 cups)
1/2 tsp freshly ground black or white pepper
1/2 tsp nutmeg
3 shakes tobasco
4 small fresh tomatoes (optional)
1 1/2 cups fresh white bread crumbs

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Drizzle oil into a large pot of boiling salted water. Add macaroni and cook according to directions on package, 6-8 minutes. Drain well.
Meanwhile, heat the milk in a small saucepan, but don't boil it. Melt 6 Tbs butter in a large pot and add flour. Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring with a whisk. While whisking, add the hot milk and cook for a minute or two more, until thickened and smooth. Off the heat, add the Gruyere, cheddar, 1 Tbs salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the macaroni and stir well. Pour into 3 quart baking dish, (it will seem soupy.) Slice tomatoes on top. Melt the remaining 2 Tbs of butter, combine with bread crumbs, and sprinkle on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the macaroni is browned on top. Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.

Need a great wine to pair it with? I am loving Indian Wells Cabernet 2009 from Chateau Ste Michelle.

Washington apple cake with cream cheese frosting...

Apple season is in full effect, and if you need a great fall dessert, I have just the one! My Aunt Sher made this cake for us years ago. We all demanded the recipe, and it has been a family favorite ever since. The perfect fall cake...with a few substitutions to make it healthier! The best baking apples? Mckintosh, Braeburn, or Roma are my faves. I also got a great tip from the produce lady at Central Market...choose at least two varieties of apples when y0u are baking, and mix them together. It adds more variety to each bite! Enjoy!

Washington Apple Cake
5-6 Mckintosh, Braeburn or Roma apples
3 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 cup oil (or substitute unsweetened applesauce)
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups flour (can use 1/2 whole wheat flour)
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup walnuts (optional)

Cream Cheese Frosting

1 8 oz package cream cheese
4 Tbs melted butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp lemon juice

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Peel and slice apples (about 4 cups), and layer in a buttered 9 x 13 pan. Beat eggs and add sugar and oil. Beat until creamy. Mix dry ingredients, and add to egg mixture. Blend in vanilla, beat thoroughly. Stir in nuts. pour batter over apples. Bake 1 hour. Cool completely.

Mix cream cheese, melted butter, and 2 cups powdered sugar. Add vanilla and lemon juice. Spread over cake when cool.

Spooooooky! Fun things to do with software this Halloween!

Halloween is almost here, and I thought I would share some fun things to do on the internet to spookify yourself and your family this Halloween!

First, our all time favorite is jibjab.com. You can custom make a video of your family and share it with friends. Here is ours this year!

Turgeon Halloween Rap


I love to get on picnik.com and mess around with photos. Every holiday they have featured edits, and their Halloween ones are super fun. I know it's spooky to make your kid into a zombie....but Grace was loving it!





This July, I got a text late at night from my cousin Rick.....a picture he had taken while we were all at our cabin, sitting around the bonfire. He sounded really freaked out, and asked if I could see what he was seeing in the photograph. You could see an eerie female shadow, standing a few feet from where we were sitting. I was genuinely spooked, and emailed the pic to the rest of my family. We were all speculating who the image may be, someone's reflection? A ghost? For the rest of the summer, we sat around that bonfire, spinning stories about the freaky woman.....that is until Rick finally admitted on Labor Day that it was the Ghost Capture app on the iphone.....seriously? All summer he let us believe the cabin was haunted. My sister in law could hardly sleep out there. Anyway, I'm glad it was an app, and not the spirit of Hood Canal...download the app for free and have a little fun of your own!


Is that not spooky? Happy Halloween!

Baked oatmeal...healthy, and your kids will love it!

I love baking, I think I have established that...the last couple of years my obsession has been real down home baking...using tons of Barefoot Contessa and Paula Deen recipes, with full on pounds of butter and full fat ingredients. I once saw this super health guru on Oprah that said, dessert is great, as long as you bake it yourself and stay away from the store bought, preservative laden desserts. I kind of took that and ran with it. Although it's still my favorite way to bake, I got to thinking...maybe the guy meant in moderation...hmmmm...ya think? I also have since watched Super Size Me, and Food Inc, and have picked up a new obsession...finding kid favorites and making them at home using healthy ingredients. Homemade granola bars, homemade mac and cheese, things I can sneak my own ingredients into, but that taste good, so my kids will ask for them. I also struggle with finding the time to make a big, healthy breakfast during the mad dash that happens to get out the door, and cereal or toast seem to be the only thing handy. I love breakfast I can make the night before, so the kids can help themselves, and I don't feel like "loser mom" for sending them out the door with a granola bar. My sister introduced this recipe to me quite a few years ago, and between my mom(the serious Martha Stewart of the family) my sister and I, someone is always baking this up. Every one of my kids love it...they eat it for breakfast and for snacks until it's gone. I make it on a Sunday night, so breakfast is already done for the next couple of days. It's also great cold, so you can pack it for lunch or a snack. You can add any fruit of your choice, although I have tried many, pears seem to be the best. I also love to add blueberries to pack in some antioxidants. I sprinkle flax seed on top before baking, and spoon vanilla yogurt over it right before serving. A great way to get fiber, fruit, omegas, and calcium into your kid's diet. Enjoy!

Baked Oatmeal

2 1/2 cups rolled pats (use old fashioned, not quick oats)
1/4 cup oat bran
1/4 cup steel cut oats
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 cups milk
1 egg beaten
1/3 applesauce
1/4 cup cooking oil
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar (you can use less sugar and it still tastes great)
2 cups chopped fresh or frozen fruit or berries (I do 1/2 chopped pears and 1/2 frozen blueberries)
a small handful ground flaxseed (optional)
vanilla yogurt (can use Greek to make it more healthy)


Mix oats, oat bran, steel cut oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt in bowl. Set aside. Mix wet ingredients with the sugars in another bowl, except fruit. Mix both together and pour into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle lightly with flaxseed. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. Pull out and stir in fruit. Bake for another 20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve vanilla yogurt over the top or on the side.

Cozy up to fall...

Moving through my stages of grief, that summer has really ended...(anger, resentment, bargaining, depression, asking why God? Why?) I have finally come to...acceptance...and even....embracing! I will embrace fall and all I have learned to love about this season. The baking, the crisp sunny days, flannel sheets, Halloween, crock pot dinners, Thanksgiving, firing up the fireplace, and last but not least, furry boot and sweater season. Twice a year I go through my closet, and each of my kids closets and do a major clean out session. In the fall, I pack up all the summer clothes and flip flops, and bag everything I know I won't wear again, or that won't fit the kids next summer, and give it away. It's kind of fun getting out the warm sweaters, boots, and jackets, and taking stock of what we need as winter gets closer. I am slowly learning that less is more. I used to be a quantity lover....if I found a cheap hoody, I would get one in every color, because, hey, it's only 30 bucks! My closet was bursting with things that were newish, some with tags still on...but still I only wore a few items...I felt guilty, so what did I do? Shopped of course. As the economy changed, as did our finances, I was forced to shop less and less, and really think about the things I needed. I decided to go through my closet and give away about half my clothes, and it felt really good. Life just felt more simple. I actually spend a little more on items I will love and have for a few years, but buy way less over all. A couple great pairs of boots, a few really nice jeans, a great coat, a couple of cozy, soft sweaters, a nice classic handbag...then go cheaper on the trendier stuff...and pass it on as soon as you are "over it!" Your closet will thank you, and believe it or not, so will your wallet! I have received quite a few emails from mom's wanting to see some affordable fall fashions. I am no fashionista, but I could post comfy outfit ideas all day! Hope this helps you to cozy up to fall!
Hat- Jess Beanie $50 allsaints.com
Silver Hoop earrings $2.90 windsorstore.com
Stackable Rings $49 stelladot.com
Super Skinny Destroyed Jeans $50 hollisterco.com
Plaid Flannel Shirt $27 oldnavy.com
Lace Trim Cami $8.50 oldnavy.com
Ugg Boots $210 nordstrom.com

need a cheaper version? Try these:

chunky beret hat $6.90 forever21.com
Bare traps Emilse Boots $74.95 dsw.com

White chocolate pumpkin cheesecake? Heck yeah!

I'm kind of getting in to baking cheesecakes. You might say I'm becoming a cheesecake geek...and we already know I love pumpkin...see here: pumpkin cream cheese muffins....so when I saw a recipe for a white chocolate pumpkin cheesecake with an Oreo crust on thebakingpan.com, I could not bake it fast enough. Seriously. I mean, white chocolate would be enough in itself, but add the pumpkin? Umm,...and Oreos? We had friends over last week from out of town. The guy never eats dessert, but he ate 4 pieces of this. Then he ate two more the next day. I live next to my sister's family, and I also live next to my parents,(it sounds crazy, but it's awesome) and we hail from a family of dessert people. Whenever we are all together, including my 98 year old grandma, there is literally a silence that falls over the room when the Dawson women are eating dessert. It's probably the only time no one talks. My husband would gladly attest to that. So when this cheesecake was in my fridge, there was a stream of people coming in through the sliding door for "just one bite.." (another Dawson term. We would never actually get a plate, just straighten up the sides. 41 times) I could go on and on about this cheesecake, but instead, I will just give you a link to the recipe:

White chocolate pumpkin cheesecake

Happy fall y'all!

Glitter pumpkins...so sparkly!

Everyone knows there are all types of pumpkins...short, fat, round, white, bumpy, sugar, you name it, someone grows it. They are perfection for a thanksgiving centerpiece, mixed with leaves, candles, and pine cones. I have seen some really ornate centerpieces, and I have to say, for me, the more simple the better. But simple + sparkly? Does glitter not make everything better? I say yes, and when I first discovered the Martha Stewart glitter pumpkins, I was in love. Simple...sparkly...autumn-like...add some candles and glow in the season. Here are some images of what other people have done with glitter pumpkins:




I kind of changed up the way Martha does it....the first time I did these I was short on time, and supplies. I do love her glitter, and you can find it on Martha Stewart.com or Amazon for around $7-$9. It's expensive but will last for years. Here is my list of what you will need...(don't tell Martha, don't think I would want her mad at me! That would not be....a good thing.)

1 can spray adhesive
multiple colors of Martha Stewart glitter (I use Fire Opal, Brownstone, and Bronze)
Small pie pumpkins
brown craft paint

Hold the pumpkin by the stem over some newspaper. Spray the entire pumpkin, except the stem.
Sprinkle on the glitter over a separate area of newspaper, don't be sparse! After you sprinkle, grab the sides of the paper and form a line with the fallen glitter.You can pour it right back into the container.
Let dry for approx. 1/2 hour. Paint the stems with brown craft paint.
Done! How easy was that?

Lasagna Soup.....perfect for fall!

What's extra gooey and super comforting on a freezing fall evening after soccer practice? (I know I keep referencing soccer practice, but as you mom's know it pretty much rules my world...)Lasagna soup. That's what. A couple of years ago, while sitting in the waiting room of the kid's dentist office and flipping through a copy of "Family Fun" magazine, I spotted this picture....

I thought about ripping out the page and stealing it, as I knew I had to make this, but I was a little worried I would get ratted out by another waiting room mom, or maybe the cops would get called, or worse maybe my mom would get called...(my imagination can go a little crazy, especially in the waiting room of a dentist...the fear kind of takes over my body)...so I took a way more rational approach and asked the receptionist to copy it for me. I made it that very night, and have been making it ever since. My kids love it, my husband loves it, and it makes enough for two dinners. Serve it up with some toasted Italian rustic bread with a little butter and garlic salt, and pack it in their thermos the next day! Seriously, make it already.

Lasagna Soup

2 tsp olive oil
1 1/2 lbs Italian sausage (bulk)
2 onions finely chopped ( I use one)
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 Tbs tomato paste
1 28oz can diced tomatoes
6 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
8 oz fusilli pasta
1/2 c. finely chopped fresh basil
8 oz ricotta
1/2 c. grated Parmesan
1/4 tsp salt
pinch of pepper
2 c. shredded mozzarella

In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and saute, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until the sausage is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from pot. Add the onions and saute until softened, about 6 minutes. Add garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes and saute for 1 minute. Add tomato paste and saute until paste turns rusty brown, about 5 minutes. Add tomatoes with their juice, the broth, and the bay leaves and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes. Add the pasta, then increase the heat to medium high and boil soup until the pasta is tender to the bite, following the time recommendations on the pasta package. Discard bay leaves, then stir in basil. if desired, season with salt and black pepper to taste.
In a small bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, the 1/4 tsp salt and pinch of pepper. To serve, place a scoop of the ricotta mixture into each bowl, ladle the soup on, and sprinkle with mozzarella.

Traditionally, meat sauce is supposed to be served with red wine, but this fall wine was spectacular with it!

Healthy smoothies your kids will actually like!

Like any other mom, I am always trying to find ways to get my kids to eat more vegetables...I have sneaked them in soups, spread them on crackers, even joined the "sneaking pureed vegetables into everything you bake" movement. I went on a two day puree marathon, and a year later, it is all still in my freezer, like crusty, freezer burned, mystery bags of grossness. The one thing my kids seem to love is smoothies. Not the green smoothie my husband makes every day at 3 o'clock....(seriously, he's like a rain man smoothie making machine....3 o'clock, must make smoothie, must make smooooothie...) but smoothies that are sweet and actually taste good. I have tried to get on board with my husband's smoothie, but it literally tastes like grass....and not in a good way. I had finally determined that green smoothies were not my thing, when my cousin Steph introduced my to the best thing ever....EVER....a green smoothie that actually tastes great. You know that feeling late in the afternoon when you lose energy and wish you could have a latte, or take a nap? That is the time you make one of these bad boys and it gives you that energy buzz to get you motivated, to get you psyched up to exercise, clean the house, or finish that smoothie blog you started....they are that good. Anyway, I figured if I like it that much, maybe my kids would drink it. Sure enough, they all love it. My daughter drinks one everyday after school and before soccer, and my rain man husband calls down from his home office every day (3 o'clock sharp) and asks "is it smoothie time?" That's not code for anything...he really just wants a smoothie. I feel less guilty about the other things I eat (1/2 a white chocolate pumpkin cheese cake....post to come soon), because I know I'm at least getting a whopping amount of things that are good for me. Since starting the smoothies, I have been researching other smoothies that are great, and came across the oatmeal smoothie. This one is perfect for busy mornings, and the oatmeal in it makes it super healthy and filling. As I have posted about before, getting healthier works by going slow, adding in one great thing at a time, and working out one bad thing at a time...you don't need to feel you are on a "health kick," let's face it, those never last, but adding more vegetables to your body, which naturally allows for less junk during the day.....never in a million years after making fun of my husband for so long did I expect to turn into rain girl....here are the recipes!

Steph's Green Smoothie

2 heaping handfuls of spinach (you can throw in some kale or parsley if you have it)
1/2 avocado
1 handful shredded carrot (trader joe's sells them pre shredded)
1 handful frozen mango chunks (also trader joe's)
1 handful frozen blueberries
1/2 inch of peeled ginger root
1 cup ( I use a little more) of almond milk (I use vanilla for sweetness)
Blend all ingredients, drink immediately, feel awesome

This recipe can be changed up to allow for what is in you freezer, peaches instead of mango, raspberries or blackberries instead of blueberries, a banana, really anything you have on hand.

Oatmeal Raspberry Smoothie

One banana
1 handful frozen raspberries(or any other frozen berry)
1/2 cups plain greek yogurt
1 TBS honey
1/2 cup old fashioned oatmeal
1 cup vanilla almond milk

Here's a few links to some others that are fabulous:

Healthy Pumpkin Smoothie
http://redheadrecipes.com/?p=13520&cpage=1#comment-7483

Dr. Oz Vitamin C Smoothie (for cold season)
www.doctoroz.com/videos/dr-oz-s-vitamin-c-smoothie

The Ikea Expedit, oh how I love her!

A few months ago, I was staring at the wall of my guest house, thinking it needed something....It currently housed a little desk, mirror, and chair, and really didn't get much use, nor did it go with the light and coastal theme I had going on in there. I had been thinking maybe a vintage hutch I could repaint, and I asked my cousin Kris (an interior designer) her thoughts. She stared for a long time before saying, "you know what would be perfect for this spot, one of those Ikea cubey shelfy things..." Neither one of us knew the proper name for these, but I knew immediately what she meant. The only time I had seen them in person, they were in someone's playroom, shoved full of toys and knick knacks, and not looking like the beachy vision I had in my mind for that wall. I started googling images of the shelf, which I found out is called the Expedit, and had no idea there was a huge Expedit fan base...there were hundreds of pictures, some were how I had seen them before, but some were done so classy and modern....Kris was onto something. Oh, and here was the other problem. I was on a budget. A big budget. And what would I possible store in 16 baskets? Later, as I went into my small mechanical room to get the vacuum, I tripped over all my kids art stuff, you know, the stuff they bring home, and you can't throw it away? The plastic containers of crayons, pencils, craft paper, paints, piled up and screaming for a new home. I had a light bulb moment, and decided the expedit would be perfect...I could turn it into the craft-o-matic 3000, and finally get on the road to organizing my life. Even though they are only $129 at Ikea for a 4 by 4 unit, I noticed they were all over craigslist for around $50-$100 bucks. I waited and found a white one for $45. I went back and forth about what type of basket to use, they have so many options...(even the Target Itso baskets fit perfectly)...but I loved the seagrass baskets, and had to pay full price at $12 a pop, but love the way it looks. It matches my guest house perfectly, and has become a one wall art studio for not only my kids crafts and art supplies, but all of my scrapbook stuff, craft paint, glue guns, wrapping paper, playdough, I could go on and on! I fit so much in there, and still have 4 empty baskets. I even got out the label maker....if you knew me really well you would know this goes against everything I stand for....I am one of those people who can keep my house kind of clean, but if you opened any drawer or cupboard, stuff would just fall on you...it's bad. I'm not kidding. But this shelf inspired me to label all their art supplies, and I find they actually do so many more art projects, just knowing they can access what they need, and clean it up easily, it just goes right back into the right basket. I have since seen these as changing tables, shoe storage, entry tables, you name the space, they have an expedit that will fit. Can you tell I'm a little excited about these? How can you go wrong for 45 bucks! Here are a few images of other expedits....where can you use one in your house?

Simple things we can do to live more organically...

In and earlier post, I started a weekly list of tips....easy and inexpensive tips to making your home more clean, organic, and environmentally friendly!
Tip #2) BPA-get rid of it! Back in the 80's and 90's, no one ever heard the terms "BPA free or free of Phalates." We drank from plastic bottles, sippy cups...we just didn't know better! In the last 10 years, BPA (also known as bisphenal A) has been listed as a "toxic substance" by the FDA. It has been proven to leech out of plastic, into the liquid, and therefore into the bloodstreams of people who drink from and eat off of it. It is highly estrogenic, and in high amounts can lead to the build up of these toxins in the body. The good news? BPA free plastic is now readily available, and inexpensive. Switch you babies and kids to bpa free bottles, sippys, water bottles, better yet, stainless steel. My little boy Wiley has a stainless water bottle with a non leaking spout he brings in the car, and loves it! Some of my favorite websites are Kleen Kanteen, and Sigg. I purged my kids lunch boxes of plastic baggies after a friend turned me onto to these!

http://www.easylunchboxes.com/

They are a bento style BPA free dishwasher safe tupperware that stack easily, are super cheap, and leave no plastic in the landfills! We also bought the insulated lunch pack that stacks three tupperware, so we can head to the park, or on the road, and they each have a snack. (It is also a great website for lunch ideas!) I also have recently found BPA plastic snack cups and bowls at Walmart. Like I said, it's everywhere! Our family had also been eating on some super cute melamine dinnerware for the last two years....seemed like a good idea, as the kids could drop it and bang it up, and we could carry it onto the patio without the fear of it breaking! Alas, after much research I decided it had to go, as ceramic and glass really is the most healthy way to go, and we cheaply replaced it all at once with a couple of these great sets from Home Essentials at Target: http://www.target.com/p/Room-Essentials-Glazed-Stoneware-16-pc-Dinnerware-Set-Vintage-Teal/-/A-11509079. I feel much better about it!

Coveting fall comfort....

What have I learned in the thirty something years that I have been getting dressed? You can't be something you're not. You can try, but inevitably, your own sense of self will prevail. And you know what? That's a good thing. Like most women, I do love fashion, and while I have friends who manage to pull off every day swankiness, (you know the type, cute skirt, boots, hair perfected, matching bag,) I am not one of those women. My style has always been ruled by comfort. I remember my best friend and I in high school, vowing every year that "this would be the year we will be uber stylish," making schedules of the cute outfits we would wear, which included a skirt at least once a week, and applying makeup every day, and actually getting up early to do our hair. Without fail, halfway through September, the plan would be scrapped, in favor of waking up 5 minutes before departure, pull on my Levi's, throw my hair in a pony tail, and scurry out the door....I have truly learned my lesson through my teenage and adult years, that yes, I love cute clothes, but they HAVE to be comfortable and cozy. My style of a mom of three who lives on the beach in a small town and drives soccer carpool, consists of jeans, cozy boots, flip flops, sweaters, tank tops, exercise clothes, a casual coach bag, and not a hot off the runway fall blazer with riding boots....I mean come on, I can't blog about what I'm not, but I CAN blog about what I am! That is a fashion lover who is on a mission to be myself, be comfortable, be casual and still have style...Here's wishing you a cozy, comfy, be yourself kind of fall!

Bag-Coach Chelsea
Socks, gloves, hat, scarf-Etsy
Boots-Frye
Stackable rings-Coach
Jeans-Hollister

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins (just like Starbucks)

If anything good comes out of summer coming to a close, it's definitely fall food. When the first cool breezy day appears, I have a little fall ritual that comforts me in my post-summer depression. I put on cozy socks, go through my Williams and Sonoma catalog for inspiration and cook big ole' fall dinner. It usually consists of either a pot roast, pork roast or turkey, crescent rolls, green beans with bacon like my grandma Elsie always made, stuffing, and for sure, something super pumpkiny (I know that's not a word) for dessert. There is just something about the smell and taste of pumpkin that feels comforting to me. Pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread pudding,(will be featured in an upcoming post) and especially......the PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE....from Starbucks. I heart her. She is my warm, sweet, comforting old friend on a cold rainy day. Of course, with the latte, I usually grab two of their pumpkin cream cheese muffins..one for my todder, and for the bigger kids....that's right, for the kids (not for me I swear.) I try to save it for them, until 3:30 rolls around, just to let them know I was thinking about them while they were sitting in their cold, stark classroom, while I was working on my computer, sipping my liquid goodness....but alas, the muffin never makes it that long. These things are awesome, and struedely (also not a word) and then BAM! There is a little surprise nugget of goodness in the middle. When I found this recipe on Pinterest...(courtesy of Annie's Eats) I HAD to make them. In fact I made 24.....and 16 were still here when the kids came home. See, kids, I really do think about you....Happy Fall!

Simple things we can do to live more organically today

I am a germ lover. I admit it. I believe in germs and their ability to strengthen the human body. I believe that kids need to play in the dirt, and pet animals, and pick boogers, and skin their knees....it's all part of the natural exposure a growing body needs to aquire a strong immune system and fend off more dangerous germs in the future. Let's face it we don't live in a bubble. We live in a real world where children and adults alike are cohabiting with germs by the millions and scary viruses that seem to change and morph every year. That being said, I also believe that chemicals, free radicals, and exposure to pesticides and carcinogens in our every day life have hit an all time high. Living more cleanly and organically sounds so daunting. First of all it's expensive, and secondly, who has the time? There is so much knowledge and advice we have to weed through to even know where to begin. But these are our kids. One day of mosquito repellent may not be a big deal, but small habits such as repellent that we don't change over time, combined with other habits, over ten years can lead to disease and built up levels of toxins in their adult years. At sugarfly, we believe in starting slow, changing one bad habit at a time...and adding another in, and another, until it doesn't seem so daunting...and after while, you are living a cleaner life! To me, that is the way to make changes, slow and easy, that way, they seem to become more of a life change, not just "kick." I am passionate about cleaning up my kids exposure to toxins, and our environment and I know you are too! Throughout the month, I will share some of these tips to easily and cheaply steer clear dangerous toxins, and make our homes a clean so our kids can enjoy this dirty world without worry!

Tip #1) Natural cleaning products are full of harsh chemicals, strong fumes, and many are tested on animals. The good news is, natural cleaning products are easier to find and less expensive than they have ever been! My favorite are the METHOD cleaning products made by Target. They smell awesome (my favorite is the melon cucumber all purpose spray, which leaves your bathroom smelling like melons for hours after you clean it!) They have everything from window cleaner to toilet scrub, and best news is, they really work and are not tested on animals. They are great for the environment, and just as importantly, our environment, safe to touch and breathe for children and mom's alike! So ditch your old cleaning products and make the switch!

One chicken, 3 dinners! (or maybe 4!)

Like any household, my husband Peter and I find ourselves asking each other at least once a day..."What's for dinner?" Seriously. We never have a plan. There are people who are actually organized, (like my sister who lives next door...she grocery shops on a certain day every week, with a full on plan of what she is making every night for the upcoming week. She literally does not go back to the store until the next week, same time, same place), I am just not one of them! How I wiiiiish I could be more like this. I have tried it in the past, I just can't keep it up. So there is nothing I love more than coming across an article in a magazine which describes taking one dinner and turning it into multiple ones. I decided to try and make up my own. I made a list, went to the store, not to be back for at least 3 days. That's big for me. I took 3 of my favorite tried and true recipes and made a plan. One roasting chickens, 3 meals...(which can be parlayed into 4 if your chicken is big enough and depending on the size of your family you can freeze some for later.) The first night involves my favorite recipe for roasting a chicken. Perfect for fall. Excuse the expletives in this recipe link, as this guys is obviously passionate about his chicken, and he should be!

Dinner #1 Lemon Rosemary Roasted Chicken

spacesbetween.net/cooking/lemonrosemary.htm

Dinner #2 Sugarfly Chicken and Vegetable Soup

This soup was originally a Barefoot Contessa soup, but I have changed is so much over the years, it is now quite different. My kids, and parents request it often.

1 large chicken carcass with leftover meat still attached.
4-5 carrots
4-5 celery stalks
1/2 large yellow onion
1 shallot minced
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
2 TBS olive oil
1 cup white or brown rice
1 cup white corn (frozen or fresh)
1/4 cup chopped parsely
salt and pepper

Take your leftover chicken out, put it in a large stockpot and boil. Add some salt, turn down to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes. Meanwhile chop all vegetables up. Remove chicken and set aside. Some might strain the broth at this point, but I like all the leftover rosemary floating from the chicken the night before (see recipe above.) Toss in carrots, celery, and onion. Let simmer for about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, pour olive oil into small fry pan, and fry shallots and garlic until lightly browned. Pour mixture into soup. Remove all the chicken from bones, stashing half in refrigerator for tomorrow's meal. Add the rice and continue to simmer fro another 15 minutes. When rice seems to be done, still in the corn, salt and pepper to taste, and after you remove the soup from heat, toss in the parsely for added color and flavor. Stash into two containers, one to freeze for later, one to eat tonight!

Dinner #3 Rotisserie Chicken Salad

I frequent the best grocery store of all time (as far as I'm concerned), Central Market. They feature a chef everyday that whips up a recipe for sampling, with the recipe and most of the ingredients right there in front of you. I have collected all the "keepers" into a spiral notebook, and use them often. This is a great salad for lunch, dinner, or to bring to a potluck. Trust me, it's awesome.

3 cups chopped chicken
1/2 cup currants
1/2 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (I use pecans)
1/2 cup shredded carrots
6 scallions, thinly sliced

Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tsp Spike seasoning
3 TBS red wine vinegar
1 TBS sugar
salt and pepper

Combine salad ingredients in a large bowl. In a small bowl, combine dressing ingredients. Add dressing to the salad, stir to combine. Serve alone or in pitas.

So there you have it, one chicken, and three dinners. Hope you enjoy!