Tag: day

Game Day Food Ballpark Party + HM #239

Game Day Food inspiration for summertime fun at Home Matters. Plus linkup w/ recipes, DIY, crafts, and decor #ballparkfood #gamedayrecipes #homemattersparty

Game Day Food Ballpark Party + HM #239

It’s game day at the ballpark! Time to get your game day food on. The gals of Home Matters have some fabulous ideas to tempt your taste buds. Enjoy these ballpark food ideas.

 

Quick Tailgating Food Ideas from Amee  @ Real Advice Gal

 

20 Hot & Cold Lunch Ideas for Sports Tournaments from Mandy @ South Your Mouth

 

Allstar Hot Dog Toppings Bar from Amy @ Atta Girl Says

 

Game Day Food Ballpark Party Blog Hop

Click through all the Hosts and Co-hosts blogs to see the complete Themed Roundup!

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A Home Matters Themed Roundup

Last Week’s Theme: July Fourth Inspiration

Next Week’s Theme: Picnics

Welcome to the weekly Home Matters Linky Party. A great place to come, share your blog posts, and make new friends.

We would love to have you visit our blogs and follow us on social media!

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Lorelai @ Life With Lorelai — Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

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Each week, we like to feature some of the awesome posts shared at last week’s party. We hope you will be inspired by these creative and talented bloggers who share their best recipes, DIY projects, crafts, home decor, organization ideas, and more. Enjoy!

Check out this week’s features below.

 

Cheesecake Cupcakes from Lois @ Walking on Sunshine

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DIY Beach Towel Pillow Cover from Kristie @ Love My Little Cottage

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Easy Grilled Pineapple Pork Kabobs from Alli @ An Alli Event

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Gluten-Free Mexican Pasta Salad from Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine

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Rag Ribbon Garland DIY from Michele @ The Scrap Shoppe

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Thank you to all who linked up at last week’s party. We look forward to seeing what you will be sharing with us this week!

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Game Day Food inspiration for summertime fun at Home Matters. Plus linkup w/ recipes, DIY, crafts, and decor #ballparkfood #gamedayrecipes #homemattersparty Click To Tweet

 

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Christmas Traditions – 12 Days of Christmas – Day 6

Here we are at Day 6 in the 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop, and it is my day to share. I have a wonderful collection of Christmas Traditions that I know you and your family will enjoy. Don’t miss a single day — they are all different and promise tons of holiday cheer and inspiration! Enjoy…

Join us for the 12 Days of Christmas Ideas Series along with eleven other talented bloggers. We’ve rounded up the best of the best Christmas ideas to make your holiday season more festive and fun.

Every day December 1-12th we will be sharing a new collection of Christmas Ideas rounded up from our best blogging friends around the web. That’s a total of 144 awesome Christmas Ideas to make your holiday season easier and more fun! Some of our topics include Decor, DIY, Organization, Food, Games and so much more. We don’t want to spoil the fun by telling you too much. We want you to be surprised! Now is the perfect time to subscribe so you’ll be the first to know!

Meet The Hostesses

Shirley of Intelligent Domestications ~ Erlene of My Pinterventures ~ Lindsay of Crazy Organized

Michelle of Our Crafty Mom ~ Stephanie of The Tip Toe Fairy ~ Lorelai of Life With Lorelai

Katie of The Organized Dream ~ Amanda of The Kolb Corner ~ Marie of DIY Adulation

Megan of C’mon Get Crafty ~ Sara of Twelve On Main ~ Kim of Made in a Day

 

It’s Day Six and we’re sharing

12 Christmas Traditions

 

It is my turn to share with you some of the joys of Christmas. Christmas Traditions are the fabric of holiday memories. Traditions passed down through the generations have made us who we are. They are special, they are meaningful, and we look forward to them each year. Maybe you will find a tradition (or few) that you will want to start in your family.

1. Celebrating St. Nicholas Day

Celebrating St. Nicholas Day from Lorelai at Life With Lorelai

 

2. Mocha Punch – It’s a Family Tradition!

Mocha Punch – It’s a Family Tradition! from Alli at An Alli Event

 

3. Advent  Wreath

Advent Wreath – Planning for a Christ-centered Christmas from Jo at Mom’s Party Cafe

 

4. Candy Cane Legend with Printables

Candy Cane Legend with Printables from Lorelai at Life With Lorelai

 

5. Swedish Advent Star

DIY Swedish Advent Star from Holly at Borei Design

 

6. The Christmas Pickle Game

The Christmas Pickle Game from Kelly at My Soulful Home

 

7. Christmas Music Playlist & Karaoke

Christmas Music Playlist & Karaoke from Lorelai at Life With Lorelai

 

8. Christmas Advent Calendars

Making Memories: Christmas Advent Calendars from Kim at Exquisitely Unremarkable

 

9. Magical Reindeer Food + Free Printable

Magical Reindeer Food + Free Printable from Lorelai at Life With Lorelai

 

10. Elf on the Shelf

Elf on the Shelf from Alayna at Alayna’s Creations

 

11. 10 Traditions to Make Your Christmas Memorable

10 Traditions to Make Your Christmas Memorable from Rachel at Smart Mom Smart Ideas

 

12. The Making of a Christmas Tradition

The Making of a Christmas Tradition from  Lara at Overstuffed

 

I hope you have enjoyed your adventure through Christmas traditions, and have found some that will help your family celebrate Christmas and the holiday season to the fullest.

Merry Christmas!

 

12 Days of Christmas Ideas – Day 6 – Christmas Traditions! #12DaysOfChristmas #Christmas #Traditions

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Thanks so much for joining us for the 12 Days of Christmas Ideas Blog Hop! If you missed any of our fun collections just see the links below!

 

 

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Morning Routines Make Great Day Starters

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

I love the quiet, early (but not too early) morning hours of the day. My family is still asleep, and I have those moments all to myself. My morning routines restore my body and soul, refresh my spirit, and set me on a great path for a happy and productive day.

 

Morning Routines

Make Great Day Starters

 

There is some thing comforting about having a routine. It provides a sense of security and calm. My morning routines are important to me, and they make me feel better as a whole person. Each day brings new challenges, but with my routine in place, I know I can meet whatever lies ahead.

5 Morning Routines I don’t like to miss:

 


1. Morning Walk with Audiobook

I love to go walking in the cool crispness of morning. Whether it is at a park or along the beach, the scenery, scents, nature, and wildlife always put a smile on my face. Sometimes life can be stressful, and these walks help alleviate the pressure bringing serenity and tranquility to my life. One of my most favorite things about my walk is enjoying an audiobook. I love to read, especially cozy mysteries, and reading via bluetooth while walking is fantastic. It is also a great motivator to walk each day, as I can’t wait to hear more of my story. I listen to my audiobooks while doing chores as well, it makes everything go faster, and I don’t mind having to do the boring work as much.

Is walking part of your morning routine? #EssentialVitamins #MorningRoutines AD

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2. Coffee and Reflection

There is nothing like the aroma of fresh coffee brewing in the morning. I may have a slight coffee addiction, okay, it’s a big coffee addiction. I love to have several cuppas while I relax, do a morning devotional, or just have a few moments of self reflection. And, then, I may have a couple more cups for good measure.

 


3. Breakfast and Vitamins

With my coffee and reflection, I am often times fixing my breakfast. I know you have all heard it before, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It is true, even if it is just a bowl of cereal. Perhaps, you may want to try my Cracklin’ Oat Bran Vanilla Buttermilk Pancakes or Peanut Butter Raspberry Smoothie. I find that when I have a good breakfast, I have a much more productive day. Everything runs more smoothly and timely. Part of my breakfast ritual is taking my vitamins, they are quick and easy to take, and help make living a busy, healthy lifestyle easier. I recently found Centrum’s NEW Vitamints and MultiGummies at Walgreens. They taste great and  have no overpowering and horrible vitamin aftertaste. Blech! I hate that awful aftertaste. The MultiGummies are easy to chew and have nice fruity flavors. Centrum’s Raspberry Vitamints are my favorite! They are essential vitamins you enjoy like a mint, and they do leave your mouth refreshingly minty.

 

I was also happy to discover that Walgreens has a partnership with Vitamin Angels, an organization that gets vitamins to kids in need around the globe. Walgreens makes a donation to Vitamin Angels with every vitamin purchase, “Get Vitamins Here. Change Lives Everywhere.”

What are your Morning Routines? #EssentialVitamins #MorningRoutines AD

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4. Organizing My Day

Every night, I think about what needs to be accomplished during the next day. So, in the morning, I like to take everyone’s schedule into account, and any last minutes things that have cropped up (this happens quite often with Luke’s business, his dad, and Rory). I love to make lists, and scratch items off as I get them finished. I find the accountability of a list motivating and a completed list satisfying.

 


5. Cuddle and Playtime with Jinx and Josie

Ah, my two adorable kitties, Jinx and Josie, are the sweetest little things. Jinx likes to get up early. He thinks his stomach is always hungry. And, if I try to sleep in just a little, he will jump up on the bed and purr in my face (his whiskers tickling me), nudge the door so it makes noise, and finally resort to irritating and waking up Josie to join in his plight. He is a drama queen. That big boy needs to be held and cuddled every morning first thing, and of late, he needs to be walked to the kitchen to his food bowl–he doesn’t want to go alone…geesh, the whimp. LOL Josie patiently waits for her loving cuddles. The cats run amok and play, while I’m off for my walk and make my way through the rest of my morning routine. Then, they know it is cuddle and playtime with mom. Jinx and Josie are so much fun, and give so much love, they are definitely restorative and energizing. You can follow all the cute cat antics of Jinx and Josie on Instagram with their hashtag: #JinxandJosie

 

From there, it is onto my list of things to do for the day. I hope you can use my routine as inspiration to create your own daily habit if you don’t already have one. If you do, what morning routines do you enjoy?

Are essential vitamins part of your daily routine? Don’t forget to purchase vitamins at Walgreens, and be a part of donating to Vitamin Angels. Learn more about this philanthropic program in this video.

 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

 

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Leap Year Day! It Only Comes Once Every 4 Years

I just couldn’t let this day that only comes around once every four years, pass by without saying something. So, happy Leap Year day! It is really a fun kind of day–one I have always enjoyed.

Before we get into the actual post, I wanted to share something very fun and EXCITING with you. The blog newsletter, Coffee With Lorelai, is hosting an EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY! The giveaway runs from today (February 29th) through March 8th. You must be a subscriber to enter. So, Sign-Up Today, and place your vote for your chance to win a Starbucks Gift Card.

Leap Year Day

It Only Comes Once Every 4 Years!

 

I have always loved this day. There is just something special and a little mysterious about a day that is not there year-after-year. One fun fact of this day is the Irish tradition that allows a woman to propose to a man. The proposal can only happen on Leap Year Day, February 29th, and that tradition led to a favorite movie of mine and Rory.

 

Have you ever watched Leap Year with Amy Adams and Matthew Goode? If you haven’t seen this movie, put it on your must-see list. You will love it.

Leap Year is witty and charming, hilarious and romantic, and the scenery is stunning. Let your heart laugh and love. Here’s the classic trailer to this wonderful movie…

 

 

Rory and I will definitely watch this movie today! How about you?

Here are some fun vintage images for Leap Year Day:

 

I had to include this image, since Luke builds and restores classic cars and hot rods. LOL

 

 

 

How do you like to celebrate Leap Year Day? Hope it’s happy!

Don’t forget to sign-up for Coffee With Lorelai and get in on the Starbucks Gift Card Giveaway!

 

 

 

 

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Marshmallow Pops – Recipe For A Sweet Treat

Who doesn’t love spoiling the special people in our lives? Well, I have a quick and easy recipe that puts a little pizzazz and pop in a sweet treat. Everyone will love these Marshmallow Pops.

Marshmallow Pops

A Sweet Treat

If you are looking for something super simple to give as a Valentine treat, this Marshmallow Pops Recipe is for you. It would be fantastic for kids to share at school, as a party treat bag, or even as a cute dessert platter. Plus, they can be decorated for anytime of year, not just for Valentine’s Day.

Honestly, you can make a bunch of these marshmallow pops in 15-minutes! I was pleasantly surprised, and it takes very little by way of ingredients too.

Make your own Marshmallow Pops – start to finish in 15-minutes! #Recipe #Treat #Dessert #Holiday

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Here’s What You Need:

Your choice of dipping mediums. I used Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips, White Chocolate Chips, and Caramel Bits (If using caramel, you’ll want a splash of milk). Marshmallows, and Lollipop Sticks. Optional Decorating Sugars–I had pink and red. You could also use sprinkles, jimmies, nuts, crushed candies, etc.

 

How-to Make the Pops:

Pour chips or caramels into separate bowls. Heat the chocolate chips for one minute in the microwave, and then, for additional 30 seconds at a time until thoroughly melted. The caramel bits melt faster, so check them at 30 seconds, and then, go 15 seconds at a time.

 

Take a lollipop stick and dip the pointed end (if there is a pointed end) into the melted chocolate of choice. Push the covered stick down into (almost all the way through) the marshmallow. Place sticks in all of your marshmallows.

 

Dip your marshmallow pops!

I did a couple different types of dipping with my marshmallows:

  • Caramel Chocolate Double Dip
  • Chocolate Dipped and Decorated

I made a dozen marshmallows, 3 of each: caramel with white chocolate, caramel with semi-sweet chocolate, white chocolate decorated, and semi-sweet chocolate decorated.

Dip your Marshmallows! Marshmallow Pops make a tasty treat. #Recipe #MarshmallowPops #Holiday #Dessert

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Starting with the caramel marshmallows, I dipped them all in the caramel, and set them aside to dry a little, Then, I worked on the decorated marshmallows–dipping them in the chocolate of choice and immediately sprinkling them with the Colored Sugars. Once those are finished, go back to the caramel marshmallows and dip them in the chocolate of choice.

You are finished. It’s as easy as that. You can eat them right away, or set them in the refrigerator for a few minutes to allow the chocolate to harden up a bit.

 

Serve these cute marshmallow pops on a plate, or package them in a cellophane bag to hand out as a special treat.

 

 

Here is a Printable Recipe just for YOU!

5 from 1 reviews
Marshmallow Pops
 
Save Print
Prep time
Total time
 
from:
Type: Dessert
Ingredients:
  • Your choice of dipping mediums - here's what I used:
  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
  • White Chocolate Chips
  • Caramel Bits (If using caramel, you'll want a splash of milk).
  • Marshmallows
  • Lollipop Sticks
  • Optional Decorating Sugars (I had pink and red. You could also use sprinkles, jimmies, nuts, crushed candies. etc.)
Directions:
  1. Pour chips or caramels into separate bowls.
  2. Heat the chocolate chips for one minute in the microwave, and then, for additional 30 seconds at a time until thoroughly melted.
  3. The caramel bits melt faster, so check them at 30 seconds, and then, go 15 seconds at a time.
  4. Take a lollipop stick and dip the pointed end (if there is a pointed end) into the melted chocolate of choice.
  5. Push the covered stick down into (almost all the way through) the marshmallow. Place sticks in all of your marshmallows.
    (I did a couple different types of dipping with my marshmallows: Caramel Chocolate Double Dip and Chocolate Dipped and Decorated. I made a dozen marshmallows, 3 of each: caramel with white chocolate, caramel with semi-sweet chocolate, white chocolate decorated, and semi-sweet chocolate decorated.)
  6. Starting with the caramel marshmallows, dip them all in the caramel, and set them aside to dry a little,
  7. Then, work on the decorated marshmallows
  8. Dip them in the chocolate of choice and immediately sprinkle them with the Colored Sugars.
  9. Once those are finished, go back to the caramel marshmallows
  10. Dip them in the chocolate of choice.
  11. Eat them right away, or set them in the refrigerator for a few minutes to allow the chocolate to harden up a bit.
Notes
Suggestions:

Serve these cute marshmallow pops on a plate, or package them in a cellophane bag to hand out as a special treat.
3.5.3208

 

 

Everyone will love these tasty treats!

Can you believe how easy these Marshmallow Pops are to make?

Do you have an simple treat ideas?

You might also like my Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookies.

 

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Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie Recipe

Remember when you were a kid, and your mom baked you cookies? Well, today, I’m baking up something tasty and delicious just for you. And, it’s a perfect treat with your favorite cup of coffee. As promised in my newsletter, Coffee With Lorelai, here is a fantastic Sugar Cookie Recipe.

 

 

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie Recipe

A Delicious Heart-Shaped Treat

 

This recipe is so simple and can be used whether you are rolling out your sugar cookie dough, or pressing it into a cookie mold. For these heart-shaped sweeties, I used a beautiful cookie mold pan.

 

 

This pan is always fun to use any time of year, but for obvious reasons, it is especially nice at Valentine’s Day.

Here are a few TIPS for using a non-stick Cookie Mold Pan:

  1. Do not over bake the cookies. The raised edges around the cookies will hold in heat while they cool.
  1. Let the cookies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes on a cooling rack. Then, turn the pan over and give the bottom of each shape a gentle, yet forceful, smack to release the cookies.
  1. Remember that the cookies will raise a little during baking. You can adjust the thickness of the final bake by adding more or less dough to the mold.

 

Sugar Cookie Recipe

Here’s What You Need:

Butter, Sugar, Salt, Eggs, Vanilla extract, Almond extract, and Flour. Optional: Frosting or Cookie Glaze.

How-To:

  • Pre-heat oven to 375° F

  • Cream softened Butter, Sugar, and Salt until light and fluffy. (I use my new KitchenAid mixer on medium speed).
  • Add one Egg Yolk, beat slightly
  • Add one Whole Egg, Vanilla extract, and Almond extract, beat slightly. (If you don’t have almond extract, Rum extract is very tasty).
  • Add Flour, and beat on low until well mixed. Do not over beat. The dough will be sticky-ish.

 

  • Press dough into ungreased cookie molds. Fill each shape about half way.
  • Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until edges are slightly browned

 

  • Let cool in pan for 15 minutes
  • Remove cookies from pan, and finish cooling on wire racks
  • When cookies are room temperature, you can Frost or Glaze.

 

 

If you are Rolling your Sugar Cookie Dough to use Cookie Cutters:

  • Wait to pre-heat your oven
  • Once Dough is mixed, Divide in half and wrap in plastic wrap.
  • Refrigerate for at least one hour, or over night
  • Take sugar cookie dough out of freezer, and allow to sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes
  • Pre-heat oven to 375° F
  • Knead dough until smooth
  • Sprinkle work surface and rolling pin with flour
  • Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness for best results
  • Sprinkle flour as needed to prevent dough from sticking
  • Use Cookie Cutters to stamp out desired shapes
  • Place cookies on baking sheets covered in Parchment Paper
  • You can bake your cookies and they will hold their shape, but if you need them to be absolutely perfect, place prepared cookie sheets in the freezer for exactly 10 minutes to re-chill
  • Once re-chilled, take out of freezer and bake for 8 to 10 minutes
  • These cookies should not have browned edges
  • Now, you have the perfect Sugar Cookie

 

These cookies are great for sharing. We put a special package together to take to Luke’s dad for his 85th birthday this past week. He loved them!

The wrapping was simple. All it took was some wax paper and ribbon. I placed the cookies pretty side down on the wax paper, and folded the wax paper around the sugar cookies. Then, I turned the package over so the pretty side of the cookies were up, and tied my ribbon around the wax paper to hold it closed. It was a perfect old-fashioned wrapping for an old-fashioned style sugar cookie.

 

 

Now, I mentioned above that these incredible sugar cookies would be fantastic with your coffee. So, I want to know…

What is YOUR Favorite Coffee Drink?

My Favorite Coffee Drink is: ____________ #CoffeeWithLorelai

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Click this Tweet, replace the blank with your favorite coffee drink, and Click-To-Tweet.
Then, sign-up for the newsletter to get in on the fantastic contest/giveaway we are holding in Coffee With Lorelai.

 

Want a Printable Recipe? Well, here you go:

5 from 1 reviews
Sugar Cookie Recipe
 
Save Print
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
from:
Type: Dessert
Ingredients:
  • 1 Cup - Salted Butter (softened)
  • 1 Cup - Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon - Salt
  • 1 Egg Yolk
  • 1 large Whole Egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon - Vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon - Almond extract
  • 2-1/2 Cups - All Purpose Flour

    Optional: Frosting or Cookie Glaze.
Directions:
  1. Pre-heat oven to 375° F
  2. Cream softened Butter, Sugar, and Salt until light and fluffy. (I use my new KitchenAid mixer on medium speed).
  3. Add one Egg Yolk, beat slightly
  4. Add one Whole Egg, Vanilla extract, and Almond extract, beat slightly. (If you don't have almond extract, Rum extract is very tasty).
  5. Add Flour, and beat on low until well mixed. Do not over beat. The dough will be sticky-ish.
  6. Press dough into ungreased cookie molds. Fill each shape about half way.
  7. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until edges are slightly browned
  8. Let cool in pan for 15 minutes
  9. Remove cookies from pan, and finish cooling on wire racks
  10. When cookies are room temperature, you can Frost or Glaze.

    If you are Rolling your Sugar Cookie Dough to use Cookie Cutters:

  11. Wait to pre-heat your oven
  12. Once Dough is mixed, Divide in half and wrap in plastic wrap.
  13. Refrigerate for at least one hour, or over night
  14. Take sugar cookie dough out of freezer, and allow to sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes
  15. Pre-heat oven to 375° F
  16. Knead dough until smooth
  17. Sprinkle work surface and rolling pin with flour
  18. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness for best results
  19. Sprinkle flour as needed to prevent dough from sticking
  20. Use Cookie Cutters to stamp out desired shapes
  21. Place cookies on baking sheets covered in Parchment Paper
  22. You can bake your cookies and they will hold their shape, but if you need them to be absolutely perfect, place prepared cookie sheets in the freezer for exactly 10 minutes to re-chill
  23. Once re-chilled, take out of freezer and bake for 8 to 10 minutes
  24. These cookies should not have browned edges
3.5.3208

 
Share the LOVE with these Heart-shaped Sugar Cookies! #Recipe #SugarCookies #Cookies

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I know your family and friends will love these adorable heart-shaped cookies. Share the Sugar Cookie recipe with everyone!

 

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8 Romantic Dinner Ideas For Two

It’s that time of year when thoughts turn to spending some special time with your special someone. And one of the things every couple loves to do is eat. So, today I am bringing you 8 Romantic Dinner Ideas For Two, and I’m even including some great tips to help keep the romance in the night.

8 Romantic Dinner Ideas For Two

And Tips to help keep the Romance in the night…

Sharing a meal not only nourishes our bodies, but it provides quality time to interact. Do not underestimate how important or how sensual talking across the table can be–looking into each others faces, gazing into their eyes, enjoying your meal together. Don’t waste time driving around town and waiting on dinner reservations, or loose the mood in traffic on the way home. Have a romantic dinner at home. Whether you make it for your honey, or you get in the kitchen together and cook up some fun, enjoy the evening.

I have a collection of eight romantic dinner ideas that would perfectly set the mood for an amorous night. So, turn on some soft music, light some candles, and let your taste buds (among other things) run wild…

Romantic Dinner Ideas – TIPS to keep #Romance in the night. #RomanticDinner #ValentinesDay

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Châteaubriand for Two with Sauce Béarnaise


Châteaubriand for Two with Sauce Béarnaise from Lynne at My Gourmet Connection

Pin HERE

Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta


Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta from Marion at Life Tastes Good

Pin HERE

Baked Thai Salmon


Baked Thai Salmon from Olena at iFoodReal

Pin HERE

Chicken Thighs Marsala


Chicken Thighs Marsala from Sue at The View from Great Island

Pin HERE

Three-Cheese Stuffed Shells For Two


Three-Cheese Stuffed Shells For Two from Carla at Chocolate Moosey

Pin HERE

Chicken Piccata


Chicken Piccata from Deb at Cooking on the Front Burner

Pin HERE

15 Minute Shrimp Linguine with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce


15 Minute Shrimp Linguine with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce from Julia at A Cedar Spoon

Pin HERE

Spiced Sirloin Roast for Two


Spiced Sirloin Roast for Two from Faith at An Edible Mosaic

Pin HERE

Here’s a few TIPS to help keep the Romance in the Night:

  • Keep your meal light. Even if you are serving something on the rich or heavy side, you can keep the portions smaller. Don’t let a food coma ruin your night.
  • Make the food playful. Serve sides or dessert you can eat with your hands, and feed each other.
  • Pre-prep as much of the dinner as you can.
  • Relax and let your feelings lead the night.

Want some ideas for Foods? Try some of these Aphrodisiacs:

  • Arugula, Asparagus, Avocado
  • Chili Pepper, Cinnamon, Honey, Vanilla
  • Walnuts, Pine Nuts (pignolia)
  • Banana, Cherry, Fig, Pomegranate, Strawberry, Watermelon
  • Salmon, Oyster, Truffle
  • Chocolate, Whipped Cream
  • Chai Tea, Coffee, Red Wine
Food, Aphrodisiacs, Romance – Tips and Recipes for #DateNight. #DinnerForTwo #Aphrodisiac

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I hope these amazing dishes and fantastic tips help you put a little romance into your Valentine’s Day. Make it a memory to cherish…

If you are looking for other Valentine’s Day date ideas, check out 8 Great Date Ideas For Valentine’s Day.

 

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Easy Valentines Ideas

Today, we have some super cute and super easy Valentines DIY Ideas for you from Regular Contributor, Michelle James. These are perfect for anyone…enjoy!

Easy Valentine’s Day Ideas

Make an Impression with these DIY Valentines

I can’t believe we are almost done with the first month of 2016. Wow! What this means to me is Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. This is one of those holidays that sneaks up on you. Then, you are scrambling to get Valentines ready for the kids, your friends, your co-workers, etc.

I have come up with some easy Valentine ideas that you can throw together quickly without any trouble at all.

Easy Valentine ideas you can throw together quickly without any trouble at all. #Valentines #DIY

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Easy Valentine Ideas

Supplies needed:

  • Scrapbook paper and Stickers – Valentine themed – I am using Echo Park Blowing Kisses Collection. It is the same one I used for my card class. I love making cards and these were a lot of fun.
  • Raffia
  • Adhesive
  • Paper Trimmer
  • Scissors
  • Stapler and staples
  • Ink – Optional
  • Candy Bars – full size
  • Candy Bars – fun size

Step 1

Measure the width of the full size candy bar. Cut a piece of scrapbook paper that is just slightly smaller and will wrap around and overlap. Mine ended up being 6×6.

Step 2

Ink the edges of the paper. This is an optional step and you can’t see it very much but I don’t like to see the white core of the paper. This takes that away and gives it a more finished look. But, if you are making these for the entire Kindergarten class; then, it may be a step to skip, and save yourself some time.

 

Step 3

Place adhesive on the back of the piece at the top and the bottom. Place one of the sides with the adhesive onto the candy bar, and wrap it around as tight as you can.

 

I did the same thing for the smaller, fun size candy bars.

 

 

Step 4

For the smaller candy bars, I like to place a few in a bag or baggie and create a fun topper. This is something everyone loves to receive.

There are several bag choices.

 

I wanted a clear bag since I had spent some time decorating the actual candy but you could use a brown or patterned bag and decorate that instead. This would be super cute.

I chose the plain baggie because the cello swirly bag was a little too big.

Step 5

Place the candy inside the baggie, then create a topper. Measure the width of the baggie, and cut a piece that is slightly wider and long enough to fold over.

I added another piece on top of the folded piece, and then added some raffia to the top.

Step 6

Place the baggie between the two folded ends and staple in place.

 

Step 7

Decorate the larger candy bars with raffia and some stickers.

Impress everyone with these easy DIY Valentine ideas! #ValentinesIdea #ValentinesDayTreats

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So, there you have it. Some easy Valentine ideas that will surely impress everyone you give them to. Enjoy!
~Michelle

Visit Michelle at her blog, Michelle James Designs!

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Mini Taco Scoops Recipe

Mini Taco Scoops

For Game Day or Any Day…

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Oh, boy! Is your mouth watering just looking at that picture? Mine is. These Mini Taco Scoops are so scrumptious. They burst with flavor, and are super easy to make too.

I previewed these Mini Taco Scoops in my Game Day Party post that featured the Snickers Mini Pudding Parfaits along with the Skittles Ice Cream Sandwiches. So, be sure to check that out, because these snacks make a perfect trio.

Mouth watering Mini Taco Scoops are a perfect #GameDaySnack ! #Recipe #Appetizer

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Mini Taco Scoops

The Ingredients Are Simple:

Tostitos Scoops, Hamburger, Taco Seasoning, Tostitos Chunky Salsa (I used the medium flavor), Sour Cream, Shredded Cheese, and Fresh Cilantro.

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Here’s What You Do:

  • In a skillet, brown your Hamburger Meat making sure to stir it well, so the hamburger breaks down into smaller pieces
  • Drain off any excess juices
  • Add one packet of Taco Seasoning according to the packet instructions
  • Now it is time to layer your Mini Taco Scoop

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  • Take a Tostitos Scoop and put a small amount of Taco-Flavored Hamburger in it
  • Then add a little Salsa
  • Add a tiny dollop of Sour Cream
  • Sprinkle some Shredded Cheese
  • Top with a Fresh Cilantro leaf

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That’s it, you’re finished! These small bites are a perfect amuse bouche (Top Chef would be proud – LOL). The flavors are wonderful, and the fresh cilantro really makes them pop…YUM!

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You can make the Mini Taco Scoops and place them on a platter, or you can set up a build-your-own Mini Taco Scoops Bar. I like to do both. I have a platter of them on the table and set up the bar around them. That way, guests know what they are supposed to look like when they go to make their own.

Serve Mini Taco Scoops on a platter, or create a make-your-own bar! #GameDay #PartyIdeas #Recipe

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These tasty snacks go quickly, so be sure to have plenty of fixings!

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Want a Printable Recipe? Get it Here!

5 from 1 reviews
Mini Taco Scoops
 
Save Print
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
An Easy and Delicious Appetizer Snack that bursts with the flavors of Mexico! Perfect for Game Day or any Party.
from:
Type: Appetizer
Ingredients:
  • Tostitos Scoops
  • Hamburger (coordinate the amount with the Taco Seasoning, usually 1 lb. per packet)
  • Taco Seasoning
  • Tostitos Chunky Salsa (I used the medium flavor)
  • Sour Cream
  • Shredded Cheese
  • Fresh Cilantro
Directions:
  1. In a skillet, brown your Hamburger Meat making sure to stir it well, so the hamburger breaks down into smaller pieces
  2. Drain off any excess juices
  3. Add one packet of Taco Seasoning according to the packet instructions
  4. Now it is time to layer your Mini Taco Scoop
  5. Take a Tostitos Scoop and put a small amount of Taco-Flavored Hamburger in it
  6. Then add a little Salsa
  7. Add a tiny dollop of Sour Cream
  8. Sprinkle some Shredded Cheese
  9. Top with a Fresh Cilantro leaf
Notes
Make the Mini Taco Scoops and place them on a platter, or you can set up a build-your-own Mini Taco Scoops Bar. I like to do both. I have a platter of them on the table and set up the bar around them. that way guests know what they are supposed to look like when they go to make them on their own.
3.5.3208

 

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How do you fill your Scoops?

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Skittles Ice Cream Sandwiches

Skittles Ice Cream Sandwiches

You Won’t Believe How Easy These Tasty Treats Are!

 

In my Game Day Party post, I included these amazing little frozen snacks. But, I wanted to share with you just how easy they are to make. You will be shocked! I know I was. I do have to confess, these Skittles Ice Cream Sandwiches had a slightly different beginning…

My original ideas was to let the ice cream sandwiches thaw just a little and push skittles onto the ice cream sides (creating a rainbow of polka-dots), and then, re-freeze them. This did not work. The whole Skittles were too heavy for the slightly melted ice cream, and they would not stay in place. What a mess I had! Then, Rory told me of something she had seen while cruising Pinterest that got her attention. I wish I had the PIN to link to, because they deserve some credit.

UPDATE: Rory found the PIN. It’s for a Skittles Poke Cake–click here.

So, get out your Magic Bullet, Ninja, or whatever food processor you have, and let’s get busy!

You Won’t Believe How Easy These Tasty Treats Are! #Skittles #IceCreamSandwiches #Recipe

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Skittles Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe

This recipe has only TWO INGREDIENTS:

  • Ice Cream Sandwiches
  • Skittles

Here’s what you do:

  • Line a baking dish with Wax Paper
  • Keep your Ice Cream Sandwiches in the Freezer. Work with them from there, one at a time

  • Take a small handful of Skittles and put them in your processor.

  • Pulse it a few times until you have Skittles Powder with some tiny chunks left in it. You will be surprised how fast this goes!
  • Pour the Skittles powder into a container with an air-tight lid
  • Repeat and Make enough Skittles powder to coat the edges of your ice cream sandwiches
Make your own Skittles Powder! #DIY #Skittles #IceCreamSandwiches

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  • Put some of the Skittles powder onto a small plate
  • Take your first Ice Cream Sandwich out of the freezer, and unwrap it. I cut my sandwiches in half to have smaller snack-size treats.

  • Tap the ice cream edges in the Skittles powder until all sides are covered

  • Place Skittles crusted sandwich in the wax paper lined dish and put into freezer
  • Repeat these steps until all of your Skittles Ice Cream Sandwiches are made
  • Once finished, cover the dish with Plastic Wrap

 

And here is what you end up with…

 

See how they look on your Game Day table?

 

A perfect frozen treat for Game Day! #Skittles #IceCreamSandwiches #GameDay

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Here is a Printable Recipe just for You!

5 from 1 reviews
Skittles Ice Cream Sandwiches
 
Save Print
Prep time
Total time
 
A super easy and delicious ice cream treat with the taste of the rainbow--Skittles.
from:
Type: Dessert
Ingredients:
  • Ice Cream Sandwiches
  • Skittles
Directions:
  1. Line a baking dish with Wax Paper
  2. Keep your Ice Cream Sandwiches in the Freezer. Work with them from there, one at a time
  3. Take a small handful of Skittles and put them in your processor.
  4. Pulse it a few times until you have Skittles Powder with some tiny chunks left in it. You will be surprised how fast this goes!
  5. Pour the Skittles powder into a container with an air-tight lid
  6. Repeat and Make enough Skittles powder to coat the edges of your ice cream sandwiches
  7. Put some of the Skittles powder onto a small plate
  8. Take your first Ice Cream Sandwich out of the freezer, and unwrap it. I cut my sandwiches in half to have smaller snack-size treats.
  9. Tap the ice cream edges in the Skittles powder until all sides are covered
  10. Place Skittles crusted sandwich in the wax paper lined dish and put into freezer
  11. Repeat these steps until all of your Skittles Ice Cream Sandwiches are made
  12. Once finished, cover the dish with Plastic Wrap
3.5.3208

 

I know you and your family will enjoy these scrumptious Skittles Ice Cream Sandwiches!

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Have you ever seen or heard of Skittles Powder before?

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What ideas do you have for tasty treats using Skittles?

 

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~Lorelai

 

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