Rough and Ready Laundry Soap.

Laundry is one of those chores you must make peace with, because it is not going away! Ever...

And through the years, I have learned, ignoring it, does not make it go away either...which means there is only one way to proceed. Accept the chore for what it is (always there!) and do your best to produce clean laundry that everyone will appreciate! 

Taco Pickles!

Taco Pickles are just the thing for Taco Tuesday or just about anytime you want a bite of delicious spicy flavor! Not too hot, not too spicy, they are just right! Plus Taco Pickles are easy to make, and they keep for a long time in the refrigerator, while waiting to be enjoyed! 

Mushroom Potato Soup

Mushroom Potato Soup is for mushroom lovers! Or soup lovers, or both, because it is delicious, easy to make and only needs a quick puree and spot of sour cream to serve!

How to Make Your Own Bread Crumbs and Creative Ideas for Use.

Got bread crumbs? You probably do! Not only do they happen naturally, in the bottom of the bread bag, but they are a great use for that last slice or heel of bread. Now is the time to use that bread (or even sandwich rolls!) to make a batch of bread crumbs. Let me show you everything you need to know!

Let's make a Root Beer Float Punchbowl! Perfect for your next get together...

Just a handful of your favorite ingredients come together for one of the easiest and shall I say it, the most fun desserts ever! Let's make a Root Beer Float Punchbowl. The easy way to serve a root beer float to friends, family and your littles! 

Seven Non-Food Gifts to Make and Give with Love. Great gifts anytime of the year!

We, like so many other families, by choice, enjoy a smalled-down celebration. With our wish lists reflecting that choice, along with our gift buying adventures. In all the time since we have had this new gift giving agreement in place we have had the same wonderful, happy celebrations. Just like we always did. And it turns out, the gifts given are actually more personal, made with love, and given with pride. We invite you to come and take a look at a few suggestions...

Creamy Banana and Kiwi Parfaits

At our house, fruit is also dessert, especially when it is this pretty. But this is not just another pretty face, with no food value. No this is made from healthy, and delicious ingredients. Plus so easy to make, be sure to let the littles in your family help...come and take a look at Creamy Banana and Kiwi Parfaits.

Cocoa Dusted Nutty Date Bites, snacks should be delicious and healthy!

As the weather changes from too cold to warm or too hot to cool and you find yourself spending more time enjoying it! We will also need nutritious snacks to keep us fed and satisfied until dinner time rolls around. These easy to make Cocoa Dusted Nutty Date Bites are just the ticket. 

Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot 12.20.2024

Welcome to another great weekend! And what better way to enjoy it in full, than with a visit to Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot! What makes this link-up special is that we encourage you to link up not only your current posts and good ideas, but also the great stuff in your archives! Yes, let's all show some love for those great posts resting in the archives...

Yes, that's right, we love all your new posts, but older posts are not only encouraged, they are appreciated! So don't hold back, share, share and share some more!

My Personal Favorites from 2024!

I have been sharing a round up of posts from the prior year's blog posts for a few years now. And it can be enlightening to see if the list of reader's favorites (based upon page views) and my favorites (based upon recipe development) have any cross-over posts. 

What's in your crisper drawer? Let's talk carrots...

We keep a bag of carrots around, all the time. Well most of the time, because the reality is, carrots like any other vegetable must be stored correctly or they will go to waste. Come and take a look at our easy way to store carrots for long term storage and some great suggestions on ways to use this delicious vegetable!

Seven Delicious and Easy Bar Cookies For Last Minute Baking!

You can't beat cookie bars and squares for getting a fresh baked treat on the table fast! But they are especially helpful at holiday time...Sharing Our Best Squares and Bars, because you can never have too many cookies, you never know who might be knocking at the door for a quick visit!

Top 10 posts, Reader's Edition! 2024

It has been a truly wonderful year! Earlier this year we had journeyed to East Texas after time as National Park Volunteers, with all the family volunteering. Being all together made the volunteer experience even more enjoyable. Unfortunately we practically lost our home in Wyoming during our volunteer time, but once the dust was settled and the home repaired we knew we had to make one last move...

Welcome to the Senior Salon Pit Stop #341

Welcome! The Senior Salon Pit Stop is now open! We invite you to come and take a look at all the wonderful recipes, craft and upcycling ideas, thrifting treasures and great family friendly articles being shared today. Because I can guarantee that you will be pleasantly surprised, with all the good stuff you are about to find…so I invite you to come and take a look. 

 

Host a Dessert and Coffee Open House, a lovely way to say Merry Christmas!

Finding time to entertain is often the hardest part of the holidays. But maybe it could be easier than what you have done in the past. Maybe you could offer your friends the opportunity to come over, relax, enjoy a bit of dessert and conversation without wearing you and everyone else out....I don't know about you, but I like that idea a lot! Take a look here!

Six Recipes for Gifting Cookie Dough, the perfect gift for neighbors and co-workers!

As the days slip by quickly, a few more friends, will come to mind! You know the ones I am talking about. The co-worker that actually makes your job easier. The neighbor who always puts out your garbage can, on those rare times that you forgot. The clerk at your market that you have become friends with, because you always get in her lane, no matter how long the line is...Yes, those folks! The folks you enjoy sharing life with, the helpers, the friends and your neighbors. 

Persimmon Vinaigrette, not too sweet and simply delicious!

Fall and winter are the perfect time to try persimmons, they are seasonal to our winters here in the states, with a delicious, bright, fruity flavor. Persimmon Vinaigrette is perfect over mixed greens topped with Feta crumbles, or simply spooned over avocado slices...either way, you can't go wrong!

Fresh Green Bean Salad with Tomatoes Feta and Toasted Walnuts

Fresh Green Bean Salad with Tomatoes, Feta, and Toasted Walnuts! That is a long name for a salad...but this is a salad worthy of every letter used! Why? Because it is so delicious! And what an enjoyable way to enjoy green beans...

Chocolate Cheesecake, a simple yet elegant offering.

Chocolate Cheesecake. After those two words, not much is needed to get one's attention! This easy to make dessert looks quite impressive and your guests will surely love it. Chocolate Cheesecake, it is the go-to dessert for the chocolate lovers in your family...

Creamy Butterscotch Meringue Pie, easy and delicious!

Looking for a delicious dessert that calls for pantry ingredients that the whole family will love? I have four words for you. Creamy Butterscotch Meringue Pie! No hard to find ingredients and ready in just a few minutes...

Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot 12.13.2024

Welcome to another great weekend! And what better way to enjoy it in full, than with a visit to Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot! What makes this link-up special is that we encourage you to link up not only your current posts and good ideas, but also the great stuff in your archives! Yes, let's all show some love for those great posts resting in the archives...

Yes, that's right, we love all your new posts, but older posts are not only encouraged, they are appreciated! So don't hold back, share, share and share some more!

Cherry Raisin Welsh Tea Cake, with a walnut crown

This Cherry Raisin Welsh Tea Cake is a simple riff on the traditional Welsh Tea Cake that I have grown to love. Made with dried cherries and raisins, the flavors all come together to play off each other as well as the delicious mix of spices! You are going to love this one!

Blackberry Cranberry and Pink Grapefruit Preserves

Cranberry harvests are in the process now. If fresh cranberries have not arrived at your market, they will very soon! And when they do, you will want to pick up a bag or two and turn them into Blackberry Cranberry and Pink Grapefruit Preserves.

Applesauce and Spice Chocolate Chip Cake, whole grain delicious!

You will definitely want to make this moist, delicious, spicy Applesauce and Spice Chocolate Chip Cake! It is perfect to share with family and friends, for holidays or any day of the week! Oh and did I mention it is made with whole wheat flour? Not to worry it is still tender and delicious. Come on, what are you waiting for?

Old Fashion Egg Nog, for Christmas morning!

It would not be Christmas morning without our favorite Old Fashion Egg Nog and cinnamon toast! This tradition is now 52 years strong and with a third generation is in on the delicious fun, I see no stopping ahead! How do you celebrate Christmas morning? If it includes also includes Egg Nog, I offer you our family's favorite recipe.

  

Welcome to the Senior Salon Pit Stop #340

Welcome! The Senior Salon Pit Stop is now open! We invite you to come and take a look at all the wonderful recipes, craft and upcycling ideas, thrifting treasures and great family friendly articles being shared today. Because I can guarantee that you will be pleasantly surprised, with all the good stuff you are about to find…so I invite you to come and take a look. 

 

How to Retire An American Flag, for Homestead Sunday #4

 Welcome to Homestead Sunday, where we share what we have learned, what we do on a regular basis, and what projects we are building, rebuilding or working on. Who are we? We are a three generation family living on six acres in South Eastern Texas. 

And while we have only been in Texas a short time, we have had the homestead mentality and lifestyle for quite a few years. Starting out with our time living in Montana. And, although we are not experts in any way, I hope that what we share with you with this series is helpful, as well as inspirational for you and your own homestead journey. Or even with your own home and yard in the suburbs. Because to homestead is an much an action as it is a lifestyle.

Fresh Tangerine Marmalade, small batch recipe, and no canning!

If you enjoy orange marmalade from the store, you will love this delicious Fresh Tangerine Marmalade! And the best part is that, there is no canning. Only 5 ingredients and a bit of time, for a delicious jar of tangerine marmalade to enjoy!

Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot 12.06.2024

 Welcome to another great weekend! And what better way to enjoy it in full, than with a visit to Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot! What makes this link-up special is that we encourage you to link up not only your current posts and good ideas, but also the great stuff in your archives! Yes, let's all show some love for those great posts resting in the archives...

Yes, that's right, we love all your new posts, but older posts are not only encouraged, they are appreciated! So don't hold back, share, share and share some more!

Easy to Make Toffee, no candy thermometer needed!

Do you want to make candy? But think that making candy is really hard? Well, so did I until I found this recipe for Easy to Make Toffee! You will love it, and so will everyone you share it with! So, let's make Toffee, shall we?

Twice Baked Scalloped Potatoes.

Twice Baked Scalloped Potatoes, just might be our new favorite scalloped potato dish. Why? Because this pan of twice baked potatoes is bathed in a creamy sauce that is cooked right in the pan while baking in the oven and then served with a touch of sour cream and bacon crumbles...

Welcome to the Senior Salon Pit Stop #339

Welcome! The Senior Salon Pit Stop is now open! We invite you to come and take a look at all the wonderful recipes, craft and upcycling ideas, thrifting treasures and great family friendly articles being shared today. Because I can guarantee that you will be pleasantly surprised, with all the good stuff you are about to find…so I invite you to come and take a look. 

 

A Caravan Christmas, our Tiny Home Tour 2024!

This might be the earliest I have ever decorated for Christmas in the history of forever! But we had a cold snap here in East Texas and it just seemed like winter, and with Thanksgiving enjoyed and gone, there is only one other event to decorate for, and that is Christmas!

In my Kitchen December 2024, looking back on November.

My first thought is that I cannot believe how fast December has arrived! It seemed miles away when I first started the garden and we as a family booked a five day Disney Cruise, back in August or there about. And yet we take off in two weeks! For today however we are joining Sherry for In My Kitchen, a monthly look back on achievements, kitchenware acquired, any lessons learned, or enjoyable and lively tales about the delicious food you cooked and served!  Come, and have a visit...

Minted Apple Bread

Minted Apple Bread is a delicious quick bread with a surprise! You will notice a delicate yet delightful mint flavor as you enjoy a slice of this tender, whole wheat bread, that is more dessert than bread. You are going to want to make this, and soon!

Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot 11.29.2024

Welcome to another great weekend! And what better way to enjoy it in full, than with a visit to Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot! What makes this link-up special is that we encourage you to link up not only your current posts and good ideas, but also the great stuff in your archives! Yes, let's all show some love for those great posts resting in the archives...

Yes, that's right, we love all your new posts, but older posts are not only encouraged, they are appreciated! So don't hold back, share, share and share some more!

For Pete's Sake, why did that recipe fail?

Does it happen to me? A failed recipe? Oh heavens yes! And some weeks as a home cook, recipe developer and content creator, it will affect not only our meals, but the blog as well. Which was the reason for this topic today, failed recipes and what might have been the cause. Because no one is exempt... 

Welcome to the Senior Salon Pit Stop #338

Welcome! The Senior Salon Pit Stop is now open! We invite you to come and take a look at all the wonderful recipes, craft and upcycling ideas, thrifting treasures and great family friendly articles being shared today. Because I can guarantee that you will be pleasantly surprised, with all the good stuff you are about to find…so I invite you to come and take a look. 

 

Cranberry and Dried Cherry (with a jigger of gin!) Sauce.

This easy to make sauce is one you will want to remember. Cranberry and Dried Cherry (with a jigger of gin!) Sauce is not just for the holidays or to eaten with only turkey. Why? Because the rich fruity flavor goes well with roasted or baked poultry, pork and ham! No matter when you serve it!

Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits

Funny story, but this is the recipe that was developed when we had a dried out block of cheese. And the biscuits were so delicious, we now dry cheese on purpose! Come and take a look at these Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits, you are going to want to make these!

Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot 11.22.2024

Welcome to another great weekend! And what better way to enjoy it in full, than with a visit to Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot! What makes this link-up special is that we encourage you to link up not only your current posts and good ideas, but also the great stuff in your archives! 

Yes, that's right, we love all your new posts, but older posts are not only encouraged, they are appreciated! So don't hold back, share, share and share some more!

Fifteen Delicious Gifts of Food and Love From Your Kitchen!

Gifts from the heart, often start in the kitchen. 

And I have learned the hard way that the holidays or any other gift giving celebration, is probably not the time to try something new in the kitchen. Which is why I am offering twelve of our tested and time honored recipes that also make absolutely delicious gifts! Any time of the year. While Christmas may be coming upon us, fortunately gift giving happens the year round!

Welcome to the Senior Salon Pit Stop #337

Welcome! The Senior Salon Pit Stop is now open! We invite you to come and take a look at all the wonderful recipes, craft and upcycling ideas, thrifting treasures and great family friendly articles being shared today. Because I can guarantee that you will be pleasantly surprised, with all the good stuff you are about to find…so I invite you to come and take a look. 

 

Our Favorite Date Cake

Another successful conversion, and just as delicious as before, Our Favorite Date Cake, has gone whole wheat wild! When I started on this journey, I was hoping it would turn out as delicious as it has, so far each family favorite recipe is just as moist, tender and flavorful as before...

A Single Loaf of Whole Wheat Bread...

Having the basics in your kitchen pantry means you can get a healthy meal on the table for your family, as needed. And in our home, whole wheat bread is always in the bread box, so today I am sharing A Single Loaf of Whole Wheat Bread, so if you are considering the transition to whole wheat baking, this just might be your starting point! Come and take a look...

Our Best Cranberry Recipes, celebrate the goodness of cranberries!

Cranberries are the crop I look forward to possibly more than any other! They are beautiful, delicious and offer up all the creative goodness that the season deserves! And that is before we even think about the delicious nutrition that comes in those bouncy berries! Come and take a look at some of our favorites..

Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot 11.15.2024

Welcome to another great weekend! And what better way to enjoy it in full, than with a visit to Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot! What makes this link-up special is that we encourage you to link up not only your current posts and good ideas, but also the great stuff in your archives! 

Yes, that's right, we love all your new posts, but older posts are not only encouraged, they are appreciated! So don't hold back, share, share and share some more!

Cucumbers, from the garden. exploring growing cycles and recipes.

Cucumbers have never really been my favorite food, until now. I don't remember them being served too often when I was a kid either. More like an after thought. When something more was needed on the table for dinner, so, how about a bowl of sliced cucumbers? As a kid, I actually thought they were boring. But...

Irish Oatmeal, that Pretty Much Cooks Itself. You will love this easy method.

Calling all Irish Oatmeal fans for this easy to manage breakfast staple! With this easy, no work, no worry method, and no special equipment needed...for a hot and hearty Irish Oatmeal breakfast.

Two Pickle Egg Salad for Sandwiches.

Egg Salad, not exactly the most exciting lunch in the neighborhood, or is it? One thing holds true, if you have backyard chickens you will probably have egg salad sandwiches on your table for lunch, from time to time. The trick is not too much flavor, but then again, not too little! This is how we do it!