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Mon
16 ^th

Giggle All the Way: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Posted by Erin — 1 Comment

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #SendHallmark #CollectiveBias

I know it is not even Thanksgiving, and typically I don’t like to even think about Christmas until I have stuffed myself full of Turkey. However, when I see something that reminds me of someone I love, it is hard for me to not want to buy it knowing that the holidays are coming. I had wandered into the Christmas decor section at Walmart, and I found some Hallmark Ornaments that brought to mind some funny childhood memories. I knew I had to buy them, and along with them, I decided to bake a little treat that I also hadn’t had in forever too!

Walmart has Hallmark Ornaments in 16 different styles that include resin ornaments of all of your favorite characters like Holiday Barbie and some gorgeous decorative figurines, but what caught my eye were the ones from some of our favorite movies that we watched when we were growing up.

I couldn’t help but think of all the hours we spent watching Star Wars, Caddyshack, and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation together.

In fact, I think most of our conversations to this day are basically spoken in our favorite lines from Caddyshack.

Like Clark Griswold, I might have overdid it.

I even found these adorable Hallmark cards nearby to send with my gift idea.

After my purchase I went home and made a classic cookie recipe: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, one that I have perfected over time, and have decided to send these ornaments and cookies along to my siblings for a pre-Christmas giggle. In my opinion, there’s nothing better than a good laugh and some cookies.

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies (makes 3 dozen)

2 sticks unsalted butter softened to room temperature

3/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar

3/4 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/8 tsp ground nutmeg

1/2 tsp salt

3 cups oats

1 cup raisins

1 cup boiling water (I’ll explain)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and line baking sheets with parchment.

In a large bowl sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

In another smaller bowl, add raisins and cover with boiling water.

Set aside for a few minutes. This helps to make the raisins plump up a bit and are extra delicious in the cookies.

Drain the raisins and set aside.

In a mixer with a paddle attachment, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well incorporated. Then, carefully mix in eggs and vanilla.

Then, add flour mixture and mix until barely incorporated.

Next, add oats and raisins. Mix until all ingredients form a dough.

Next, scoop dough onto reserved parchment lined baking sheets (about 1 1/2 tablespoons).

Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool on wire wrack before packing to send.

I cannot wait to send these cookies with the funny Hallmark Ornaments I found. I think my siblings will love them.

What ideas do you have for Hallmark Ornaments at Walmart this Christmas season? Will you decorate an entire Star Wars themed tree? Will you send a fun gift to a pal with golf balls and a Caddyshack ornament? Share in the comments.

Thu
06 ^th

We Went to Minnesooo-tah and found 11 Fun Things to do in the Twin Cities Don’t Ya Know?

Posted by Erin — No Comments

When I think family vacation, I think road trip. There’s just something about loading up the car with way too much luggage, and hitting the open road in search of a an adventure. There is something so nostalgic, so American, so family friendly about it all. Even John Hughes wrote a whole movie based on his the tale he wrote for the National Lampoon about a fun old fashioned family road trip.

Brian and I have decided that picking a North American city and seeing everything along the way is the way to go. This year we chose the Twin Cities, and we found 11 fun things to see and do. In fact, we wish we would have had more time as everything was so serene as you can see by the many photos I took!

1. Shop The Mall of America: I know it seems weird to want to spend a day indoors at a mall in the middle of a beautiful midwestern summer, but we picked a rainy muggy day for this adventure and it was awesome. It was pretty amazing to see a mall this big, all the stores, and for even those that aren’t into shopping the variety of things to do.

2. Experience Nickolodeon Universe: This is the giant indoor amusement park right in the center of the Mall of America. None of us are too keen on roller coasters, but there is plenty more to do there, in fact the photos we captured with the kids and some of their favorite Nickelodeon characters like, Blue was worth it. They also film a kid’s game show there!

3. Check out the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium: This is also located in The Mall of America. I know it seems weird, but this is an amazing display of aquatic life. The kids loved touching anemones, sea stars, and sting rays. They also have huge display of various other sea creatures that will keep anyone captivated.

4. Make plenty of time for Mill City Museum: This was my absolute favorite part of the Twin Cities. This original Washburn & Crosby flour mill has been converted into a museum that both encapsulates and pays tribute to the milling industry of Minneapolis, but will also tell you everything you need to know about flour, wheat, milling, and the history of Minneapolis.

From the grain elevator to the water room…

the tasting room to the movies, this place was awesome.

Not to mention the view of the river and St. Anthony falls cannot be beat. I wish every city had a museum like this!

5. Eat at Grumpy’s: Grumpy’s Bar and Grill was recommended to us by an employee at the Mill City Museum for lunch. After talking to our server (that’s what we do). We found out that Grumpy’s has been around for quite awhile in the area. The food was great, and it is where I got my first taste of a Juicy Lucy (a burger with cheese in the middle).

6. Visit University of Minnesota: Brian and I have a tradition of visiting collegesand universities when we vacation in a new place. University of Minnesota is a gorgeous campus complete with a few places to stop for ice cream. Also, let’s not forget seeing the stadiums, including Ridder Arena where the 5 Time National Champion Golden Gopher Women’s Hockey Team plays.

7. Stroll through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: Coming from a city that has a Giant Bean in the middle of a park, I guess I am enthralled with outdoor sculpture. This spacious and gorgeous garden is part of the Walker Art Center and is home to 40 permanent art installations including the famous Cherry on the Spoon. The kids liked running through the spray of water.

This was a perfect place to walk around, snap photos, and just kind of relax.

8. Explore Como Park Zoo and Conservatory: This gorgeous and unique place in St. Paul is exactly what is says in its name. It is a giant park, beautiful zoo, and the perfect location to see some of the most beautiful gardens you have ever seen. My favorite part of this visit was the water gardens as we walked in. It was like being in a Monet painting.

9. Tour St. Paul: Visiting Minnesota’s state capital, we were able to get a great guided tour of St. Paul from my friend Melissa. St. Paul is the perfect definition of a bigger city with a small town feel.

10. Try Snuffy’s Malt Shop: This is another Twin Cities favorite, and where my we all got to try some fabulous ice cream treats like a Ice Cream Cherry Soda, a Creamsicle Malt, a Mrs. Snuffy’s Malt, and a Chocolate Covered Cherry Malt.

11. Walk around Minnehaha Falls: This 53 foot waterfall and surrounding park is perfect spot to take in a hike, bikeride, or picnic. There are also some historical landmarks housed here like the Longfellow House (Not the real Longfellow House) and The John H. Steven’s House Museum. We wish we would have had more time here.

There was so much to do that there were a few things we didn’t get to see or do.

BONUS. Take in a Game: No matter what the season you can see the Minnesota Twins play at Target Field, The Vikings play at US Bank Stadium when its completed (formerly the Metronome), The Timberwolves play at the Target Center, The Minnesota Wild play at the XCel Energy Center, or even take in a St. Paul Saints Minor League Baseball Game (Bill Murray owns the team).

BONUS. Play some mini golf: The Minneapolis Sculpture garden also has a mini golf coarse inspired by art.

BONUS. Take in a free concert: We wish we would have had time to visit The Chain of Lakes and take in one of the free concerts which happen almost every night in the summer.

Tue
16 ^th

A Blast from the Past: Recipes

Posted by Erin — 1 Comment

There seem to be few things that can take you to the past like food. While I agree, old photographs and mementos can remind of you certain moments of you life. The smells and tastes of certain foods can immediately take you back in time to experiencing a moment again.

Sometimes, I like to think of food as a time machine.

There are certain recipes that I make to remind me of certain people. There are recipes in my family that come to be known by the person’s name, simply because it reminds us of them.

We have a recipe for baked chicken that has come to be known as Nano’s Chicken. My Grandma Nano made it quite a bit. While it is a common recipe and can be found pretty easily, I make it from memory and think of eating dinner with my family at her house.

I have been trying to master zucchini frittata for years, as it reminds Brian of his own grandmother. When I first made it for him, he immediately started telling stories of sleepovers and stopping by his Grandma’s house after work.

A few weeks ago, my cousin emailed and asked if I had any old recipes. I am so glad she did. I asked my Mom and one of my Aunts if they had anything, and they had a few things for me.

After sending them to my cousin, I cannot wait to try some of them.

Perhaps, I will be transported back in time.

What are your favorite family recipes? What do they make you think of?

Home Everyday continues to send concern and thoughts to those affected by the events at yesterday’s Boston Marathon.

Thu
14 ^th

Chatting: Irish Soda Bread

Posted by Erin — 1 Comment

This is a recipe that I can honestly say, I have only made once myself. It isn’t that it is difficult or time consuming. It is actually quite easy and a little different than a traditional Irish Soda Bread.

The reason I have only made it once, is my Mom makes it for everybody all the time, and therefore always has some in her house. She makes it when babies are born, when she is visiting a friend, when someone is sick, or when it is someone’s birthday. She gives it to the families of people who have suffered a loss, and people who have moved in next door. She brings it to people when she is stopping by for a chat. It is just what she does.

Last night, I stopped by to pick up the recipe to post, and of course she had a loaf that she has just made on the counter with the kettle on for tea. She grabbed my Grandma’s dishes, and we drank tea, ate soda bread, and had a chat. I’m so glad she lives only ten minutes away. It was nice to have her listen to my hellacious boot shopping trip with the kids or how we are in the middle of a project right now.

This recipe had originated with my Mom’s cousin Laura. We’ve been eating it all the time (not just on St. Patrick’s Day), and it kind of has a quick bread or cake consistency. If you slice it a little thicker and put it in the toaster it is delicious. Also, it makes two loaves, one for you, and one to share.

My favorite way to eat it is with just a little butter, a cup of tea, and a chat.

Laura’s Irish Soda Bread

5 cups all purpose flour

1 tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1 cup sugar

2-3 eggs (2 large 3 medium)

2 cups raisins

2 1/2 cups buttermilk

2 sticks butter (cold)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Grease and flour two loaf pans, and set aside.

Put the raisins in a small bowl, and pour some very hot or boiling water over them and let sit for 3 to 5 minutes. Drain and set aside (this step is not necessary, but makes the raisins plump and delicious).

Sift together flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Cut in butter, or mix until butter and dry ingredients are a cornmeal like consistency. Add raisins, and set aside.

In a separate bowl, mix together sugar, eggs, and buttermilk until well incorporated.

Finally, add the egg mixture to the flour and butter mixture, and mix until just combined (do not over mix). Pour the mixture evenly into the to prepared loaf pans.

Bake for one hour or until golden brown.

Get your kettle ready and call a gal pal.

Thu
20 ^th

A Few Christmas Decoration Traditions

Posted by Erin — No Comments

There is so much to write about when it comes to Christmas, I feel like I might be writing for weeks after Christmas about all our experiences so far. While everyone has gotten a chance to see tree 1 and tree 2 as well as our mantel and our dining room table. I thought it would be nice to show you a few other decorations we have put up around the house that have been around for many many years.

This was my grandmother’s nativity that I inherited after she passed away. Every year when I take it out of its box, I am reminded of her and the millions of cookies we all helped her bake, seeing her at Christmas Mass, and Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners of my youth.

Here is a smalls snippet of my collection of snowmen. Some were gifts from family, some were made for me like the ceramic one by my mother in law. I did the needlepoint one many years ago. But my favorite is the sock snowman with the red hat made for me by my niece and god daughter when she was a little one. Now she is a senior in high school. Time goes too fast!

My parents had an idea pretty early on that I was Christmas crazy, so when I was in high school, they started a Christmas village for me. People have added to it over time. The kids love it.

Since Brian and I have been dating, I have bought him a penguin ornament every year. Some are fancy silver from Pottery Barn and, some are plastic from Target . But it is our tradition, and I love the quest of trying to find a unique one every year for our tree.

Do you have any family heirloom type Christmas decorations? Do you have a holiday collection that has been gathered over time? Share!

Fri
05 ^th

Teachable Moments

Posted by Erin — 7 Comments

A few weeks back, I was at the super market with all three kids. Which as many with kids know can be a hellish interesting experience. While zipping through the store, with my half written list, one child eating Goldfish crackers and the other two letting go of the cart to give me their “sales pitch” on on various unhealthy foods that we must purchase for the mere fact that Lightening McQueen is on the box, I make my way to the frozen foods.

I stop.

There is a woman standing right in front of the frozen waffles. I excuse myself to grab a box, and she says, “Can you help me? My hands are so sore.” I nod my head, and get a box of waffles for her. I notice her hands are resting backside up on the handle of her grocery cart, too weak to grip. I then say, “Miss (I’m not a fan of calling someone Ma’am, as I was near tears when a teenager did it to me once) is everything ok?”

She begins to cry, telling me that she just finished her last round of chemo that morning. That she has a cab waiting outside. That she hopes the cancer is gone. That her grandkids are coming for the weekend and she needs food in the house. That her daughter was supposed to help her at the store today and couldn’t make it. That she thought she could do it herself. That she thinks she is going to just go home.

I reply, “No, we will help you.” The kids by now are listening. Russell and George IMMEDIATELY get to work, when I say the word help. Russell asks the woman, “What else are you going to buy? I will get it.” George says, “Can I push your cart, please?”

We follow the woman around getting our groceries and her groceries, putting anything in her cart that she needs. The boys talking to her, asking her such important questions as “Do you like the Chicago Bears?” and “What’s your favorite color?”

We get to the checkout. The woman thanks us, and tells us that the cab driver can help her from here.

The kids and I checkout. We get to the car. Load everything in. Put everyone in carseats. Buckle up.

I stop.

Russell says, “Mommy, that woman was a stranger.”

“Yes, Russell, she was, but Mommy is here to keep you safe.”

“I don’t like seeing people that are sad. Why was she sad?”

“Because she is sick.”

“I don’t like being sick. I’m glad we helped her.”

George chimes in, “Being sad is not fun.”

I reply, “No, George, being sad is no fun. Thank you for helping.”

That night as I had just told all three munchkins to put their clothes in the hamper for the millionth time.

I stop. I smile. I tear up.

It dawns on me. Even though these kids can drive me insane, they are starting to catch on to the important things in life. Brian and I have done something right. Today my kids helped someone in need. They understand kindness.

As a mother of young kids, it is hard to see the payoff from your labors. Months of, “Say please and thank you.” Hours of setting the timer so they can see the concept of “turn for turn”. Years of trying to lead by example. I finally am getting to see that my kids understand. Even though they are so young, they are starting to understand.

Now, excuse me while I go break up a three way screaming match over Secretariat our rocking horse (hey, no one is perfect all the time).

Linking up at Mom of 6 Share Your Life.

Tue
11 ^th

Newlywed Dinner: Quick Chicken and Dumplings

Posted by Erin — 6 Comments

When Brian and I were first married, I so enjoyed having my own kitchen to cook and bake and make messes in (Brian can attest I used to be a very messy cook). I had lived with my Mom prior to getting married, and while I did plenty of cooking, it still wasn’t MY kitchen. I also did a lot of experimenting in those early days, and they weren’t all winners.

One of Brian’s absolute favorite meals when we were first married was Rachael Ray’s Chicken and Dumplings. It is something that remains in our dinner rotation, and it is usually the first thing he asks for as the weather turns colder. Since fall is on the way, I thought I would share with you the recipe. It is simple, everything cooks in one pot (easy clean up), only takes about 30 minutes, is great leftover, and is a true comfort food

The only difference between cooking then and now is all the helpers I have in the kitchen now.

Wed
15 ^th

Six Week Round Up: Busy Busy

Posted by Erin — No Comments

Monday marked the start of my 6th week blogging, and I have to say I am enjoying it way more than I ever thought. It is definitely a way for me to “talk” to adults as well as showcase some of the things we do with the kids, our home, and in the kitchen.

Thank you so much to those of you that read. I have only received positive feedback, and I totally appreciate it. It makes me want to share more with you. So stay tuned for more kids crazy antics, home projects, and cooking adventures. Please keep reading because my to do list is forever long, and your reading gives me the motivation to keep going.

Blogging also has the added bonus of being a scrapbook for us to look back. So, here is a round up of our last six weeks. Crazy huh?

We have definitely been enjoying summer with the kids and getting to try some new things in our neighborhood like the fishing derby, soccer camp, and the new gelato place.

We’ve also been enjoying some relaxing time at home enjoying some impromptu play time or the fake Olympics.

Let’s not forget time spent with family.

And the projects Brian and I have been working on around here like our vegetable garden that I talked about here and here.

Not to mention the painting projects that I’m constantly doing in Brian’s parking spot of the garage. So far, I’ve fixed up our mailbox, refinished some chairs, painted an old bookshelf, and painted some nightstands. By the looks of things around here, maybe I should open a furniture refinishing shop.

There have been some smaller projects we’ve tackled like the kids’ art display, my ticket stub art, or replacing the kitchen light fixture as well as the HUGE project of hosting a garage sale.

But let us not forget la piece de resistance, the gorgeous plank table Brian built and I stained.

So far this summer too, I’ve been cooking and baking up a storm (too bad it isn’t storming for real around here; the drought has wrecked havoc on my garden). Here are links to all the amazing recipes that I’ve tried. Luckily, they all have been winners, but trust me I’m sure there are several mishaps to come, and I can share those too.

I’ve baked smart cookies, chocolate chip mug cookies, chocolate chip zucchini bread, French bread with herb compound butter, honey wheat bread, and white chocolate, blueberry, and oatmeal cookies.

I’ve also made quinoa/rice salad, zucchini frittata, pear and cheddar grilled cheese, two kinds of chicken salad, chicken pot pie, and minestrone soup.

As you can see we are busy around here. Thank you again for reading and the positive feedback! It really does brighten a gal’s day.

Wed
11 ^th

Something Seems Fishy Around Here

Posted by Erin — No Comments

We have lived in this town for seventeen months, and we
could not be happier with everything here. We love the small downtown area, the businesses (Mariano’s Fall 2013 WOOT!), the
park district, and the library. We enjoy the Sunday Farmers’ Market, concerts
on the town green, and summer movie series. So far, we have been a part of several events too, such as
the 5K Run and the huge end of summer fest. I used to joke that I wish I could
find a town like Stars Hollow in Gilmore Girls, and I think I found it.

One of the events that we took part in this past weekend,
was the Youth Fishing Derby. Brian has always wanted to teach the kids how to
fish, and this was the perfect event for them to learn. It was totally geared
toward kids, and the volunteers were extremely helpful. For a small fee, the
park district provided each participant with a t-shirt and bait, and for 45
minutes the kids, with the help of an adult could cast their line as many times
at they wanted. When a child caught a fish, a volunteer would measure the fish,
take the hook out (which is the part I’m always squeamish about) and throw the
fish back. At the end of the 45 minutes, there was an award ceremony with
snacks (Goldfish crackers of course) and juice for the kids. Prizes were given to the participant who caught
the biggest fish, and the participant who caught the most fish.

The boys (all three) had a ball! Caroline was too young to
register this year, but she had a great time watching. Russell and George with
the help of Daddy and Peepa EACH caught six fish. Pretty impressive for the
first time out.

Bait ready.

What a beautiful (and hot) morning!

Running to get more bait!

Russell thought it was too hot to stand.

George smiling ear to ear after his first catch.

Russell’s 7 1/2 inch catch.

Caroline waiting in the shade.

Time to go in and cool off!

What is your favorite thing/event/business in your town?

Tue
10 ^th

He’s One Smart Cookie: Dark Chocolate, Cherry, and Oatmeal Cookies

Posted by Erin — No Comments

So, Brian has been so amazing helping me with a TON of
summer projects such as our garage sale, building me a farmhouse plank table, and
digging up some of our overgrown weeds, all while working long hours and being
a co-chair for our church’s annual block party.

I decided to make his absolute favorite cookies. I created
this recipe especially for Brian. I’m still thinking of a name for them. Right
now I’ve been calling them Smart Cookies. Everyone in my family loves them too, and I don’t know what it is about the
flavor combination, but they are these cookies are very addictive. I swear
there is no nicotine in them, but honestly you cannot just stop at one, or two,
or seven.

2 Sticks unsalted butter softened to room temperature

¾ Cup Packed Brown Sugar (light or dark whichever you prefer)

½ Cup Granulated Sugar

2 eggs

2 tsp. PURE vanilla extract

1 ½ Cups All Purpose Flour

1 tsp. Baking Soda

1 tsp. Ground Cinnemon

¼ tsp. Ground Nutmeg

½ tsp. Salt

3 Cups Old Fashioned Oats

1-11 oz package of Milk or Dark Chocolate Morsels

1 Cup dried cherries

Preheat oven to 350° F

Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.

In large bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon,
nutmeg and salt, and set aside.

Cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar
until well incorporated. Add eggs and vanilla and mix until combined. Then add
flour mixture slowly and combine until just incorporated (DO NOT OVERMIX). Stop
the mixer and add the oatmeal, chocolate morsels, and cherries. Turn mixer on
low and mix for a few seconds until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough onto parchment lined baking sheets
about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-11 minutes. Remove from oven and transfer
carefully to cooling rack. The recipe makes about
5 dozen cookies. ENJOY!

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