FAST FOOD FRIDAY

Morning Everyone

Had a great night last night... We are going to play a trivia game for New Years down here in the USA . We did 25 questions and put them on sticky notes all over the house and the guests have to guess them and then the ones with the most correct answers win. Not sure what yet but Norma and I are heading to the mall today to shop so we will find something fitting I am sure.

Turkey Panini Sandwich
4 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 Granny Smith apples—peeled, quartered, cored and thinly sliced 1 loaf Italian bread, cut into 4 equal pieces, then each in half lengthwise 1/2 pound smoked Gouda cheese, grated 1/2 pound thinly sliced deli smoked turkey Lighten up
Skip the butter and use cooking spray to keep the sandwiches from sticking.
Directions:
In a grill pan over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Cook the apples until just softened, about 5 minutes. Remove the apples from the pan and reserve; don’t clean the pan.
Top each of the 4 bread bottoms with one-fourth of the cheese, turkey and cooked apples, and the bread tops.
Melt 1/2 tablespoon of butter in the grill pan over medium heat. Add 1 sandwich and place a heavy pan on top of it to press it down. Grill for 3 minutes, pressing down occasionally, then turn over and continue cooking until the bread is toasted and the cheese has melted, about 2 minutes more. Grill the remaining sandwiches, adding another 1/2 tablespoon of butter each time before grilling.

Want to wish Krysta and Kevin a happy 5th Anniversay today. Krysta arranged a surprise for Kevin to Vegas. They left yesterday and there for a few days...but Kevin your surprises are not over..
Enjoy
Cheers
Granny

THRIFTY THURSDAY

Morning Everyone
What a beautiful day it is today . We are in the USA...Why you ask..Well we went to Terry and Norma's in Vancouver yesterday to find out that we were spending our New Years Holiday at their place at the Lake...Thank god we brought our passports with us or we would be of Going on a Gulf Island cruise for three times... This is great though get to do some shopping spend time with friends and wish my Grumpy Happy New Year..
NACHO TURKEY CASSEROLE
ingredients
5 cups slightly crushed tortilla chips
4 cups cubed cooked turkey or chicken
2 16-ounce jars salsa
1 10-ounce package frozen whole kernel corn
1/2 cup dairy sour cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeño peppers or mozzarella cheese
directions
1. Lightly grease a 13x9x2-inch baking dish or 3-quart rectangular casserole. Place 3 cups of the tortilla chips in bottom of dish. In a large
bowl combine turkey, salsa, corn, sour cream, and flour; spoon over tortilla chips
2. Bake, uncovered, in a 350 degree F oven for 25 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining 2 cups tortilla chips and the cheese. Bake, uncovered, for 5 to 10 minutes more or until heated through. Makes 8 servings.
To Tote: Cover tightly. Transport in an insulated carrier.
For 4 Servings: Prepare using method above, except assemble in a 2-quart square baking dish.

Here is your thrifty thought for today . Andrea and Adam are one a dedicated walking and run program so that is where my idea has come from

One of the healthiest things you can do is walk. Jogging is also very good for cardiovascular health, but takes a hefty toll on the health of your joints. By walking at a brisk pace each day for 30-60 minutes, you will burn fat and promote better cardiovascular health. Think outside the box and come up with some ways to incorporate more walking into your daily routine. Kill two birds with one stone by walking to your job, errands or school rather than driving. This is not only healthier but also cuts down on vehicle expenses. In fact, imagine what your life would be like if you didn't even own a car and just walked everywhere (with the occasional taxi ride when necessary). Is it doable? Many car-owners never even consider trying to get by without one. Can you get rid of your car? It might be easier than you think, help save a ton of
money, and also keep you in better shape.
Enjoy
Cheers
Granny

CROCKPOT WEDNESDAY

AFTERNOON EVERYONE

Well I am on the ferry going on a gulf island cruise with Grumpy...Off to spend new years with good friends..Sent the morning with Marilyn and her mom playing Scrabble. Longtime since I have played that game and really enjoyed the game and the company..So the next couple of days is going to be short and sweet posts. Watched Kelly coach a very good hockey game last night, was Proud Proud. Proud. .. They beat the Grizzilies 3-2 in double overtime. Not only did they get beat with the score they also got beat up!!!!!


CREOLE RICE AND TURKEY
3/4 to 1 lb. cooked turkey white meat
1 green pepper, cut into 1 inch chunks
2 stalks celery, cut into 1/4 inch slices
1 med. onion, cut into wedges
2 fresh tomatoes, cut into 1/2 inch chunks
1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce
1/2 tsp. ground thyme
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. paprika
1/8 tsp. cayenne
1 1/2 c. Minute Rice
Cut cold turkey into 1/4 inch slices. Set aside. Combine remaining ingredients except rice. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Increase heat and bring to a boil again. Stir in rice and top with turkey. Reduce heat. Simmer for 8 minutes more. Makes 4 to 6 servings.

TIPSY TUESDAY

Morning Everyone

Yesterday was a great day, spent it with friends and got to check out their Daughter Alison and son-in-law Derek their new house. They were busy painting and decision making and when it is all done it is going to be wonderful...I love those houses from the 5o's they can have so much character and this one is no different..

Well today is going to be a cleaning day as well as laundry so I can pack a bag as we are heading to Vancouver for 4 days to spend with friends. Not sure what they have planned but I do know that we are going to do lots of cooking. They love to cook and so does Grumpy and I and they have a beautiful kitchen so let the fun begin. Grumpy and I are going to do a seafood night with app's, as well as Salmon done on the barbacue with Jack Daniels , will have to post that recipe maybe in the summer. So GOOD....

Turkey Tortilla Soup

Ingredients
3- 6-inch corn tortillas, cut in strips
2 -tablespoons cooking oil
1- cup purchased red or green salsa
2- 14-ounces cans reduced sodium chicken broth
2- cups cubed cooked turkey (12 ounces)
1- large zucchini, coarsely chopped
Lime wedges (optional)
Sour cream and cilantro (optional)
Directions
1. In a large skillet cook tortilla strips in hot oil until crisp; remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper toweling.
2. In a large saucepan combine salsa and chicken broth; bring to boiling over medium-high heat. Add turkey and zucchini; heat through. Serve in bowls topped with tortilla strips, lime wedges, and cilantro. Makes 4 servings.

Well I very pleased that all my family loved their Christmas gifts...It is nice when they call or email to say they loved the clothes and even gave a name to the Sock Monkey and it will be passed on to generations....I think I might be busy making a few more of them but that is okay cause I loved doing him. He was so cute and took on great character with every new step of the making.

Tipsy Tuesday

Save money on shipping material or gift basket padding. Get all your wrapping paper together and place it in your shredder. Shed it on the smallest setting you have. Then you are able to use this in the bottom of gift baskets or to place in boxes when you ship something. A great way to do this also, is keep the paper folded up until your ready to use. Only shred when your ready, this will make storage more simple.

Well dryer just beeped talk to you soon..

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

MENU MONDAY.

Morning Everyone

Great hockey game yesterday. It is always good to come out of the gate with a win..Keeps it up boys...Those of you who cooked dinner on Christmas night will have leftovers. Those who were lucky to be guests at someone elses dining table will probably have left the house with a doggie bag. My girls forgot to bring their containers for leftovers , so they went home empty handed.

Wanted to post a picture of the sockmonkey

that I made for my grandson Easton I put an

red embroidered heart and and red letter E

on his little butt.

I have decided to do a week of leftover turkey recipes...You do know that turkey is not only meant to be cooked on Thanksgiving or Christmas so keep these recipes on hand for the next time you cook a turkey..When you find turkey on sale pick one up and cook one for your Sit Down Sunday and then cut up what is left over and freeze it and you will have close at hand for and Leftover Turkey recipe. I am hoping that you all took notes from the chef that cooked you your Christmas dinner, cause the best way to learn is to watch...So here it goes your weekly menu:

Monday... Cran-Turkey Enchiladas
Tuesday...Turkey Tortilla Soup
Wednesday...Turkey Creole
Thursday...Nacho Turkey Casserole
Friday...Smoked Turkey Panini Sandwich

Cran-Turkey Enchiladas

Ingredients
Nonstick cooking spray
2 to 2-1/2 cups shredded cooked turkey
1 16-oz. can whole cranberry sauce
1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1-1/2 cups bottled salsa
1 cup shredded colby and Monterey Jack cheese (4 oz.)
1/2 cup dairy sour cream
3 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup snipped fresh cilantro
1 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
8 7- to 8-inch whole wheat or regular flour tortillas
1 tsp. bottled hot pepper sauce
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat a 3-quart rectangular baking dish with cooking spray; set aside. For filling, in a large bowl stir together turkey, half the cranberry sauce, beans, 1/2 cup of the salsa, 3/4 cup of the cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spoon about 2/3 cup filling on each tortilla. Roll up tortillas around filling. Place, seam sides down, in prepared dish; set aside.
2. For sauce, in bowl stir together remaining cranberry sauce, remaining salsa, and hot pepper sauce. Spoon over filled tortillas. Cover with foil. Bake for 45 minutes. Uncover; top with remaining cheese. Bake 5 to 10 minutes more or until heated through and cheese is melted. Sprinkle with additional cilantro and green onions. Makes 8 servings.

Today we are off to Victoria to visit friends that we did not get a chance to see the last couple of days..I might even hit the fabric store... You have a good day and maybe think about those who could need an extra hand. Most of us have had a memorable Christmas and a thankful one as well..If you were fortunate enough to of had someone put you up or cook for you over the holidays how about a nice thank you card sent by mail or email to let them know how special they made your Christmas.. If you do this you will have now made that person feel that all the hard work was appreciated and worthwhile..
Cheers
Granny

HOCKEY HOCKEY HOCKEY

Afternoon Everyone

Watching the Junior Hockey Game!!!

I love my life!!! I love family and friends!!!! what more can I say..I had a wonderful Christmas with everyone...I think at least once in your life you need to be spoiled, but when it happens to me everyday I know how lucky I am.. My idea of being spoiled is not always in materialist things, but just being able to spend time with my family and friends...

I want to congratulate Dean and Megan on the birth of their son Brayden on Christmas Eve, not that is what I call the best present of all..

It has been along time since I got to spend a relaxing Christmas Eve at home with just my husband..that is mainly cause I was much more organized this year and not spending my evening rushing around doing last minute things...Got up Christmas morning , put the turkey into the oven on a timer and then headed down to Victoria to spend the morning with the little grandboys, their parents and Kelly and Lindsay..then off to my twin brothers for a bit and then to Marilyn's and spent some time with her and her wonderful family and finally back up island in late afternoon to get dinner ready for Kimberly , Andrea and Adam and spend our Christmas with them..

So my day was filled with a GREAT family and WONDERFUL friends...truly the thing I love to do.

I have to share with you all the wonderful gifts that I got..Grumpy bought me an Ipad and some beautiful emerald and diamond earrings that went with a necklace that he had bought for me a couple of Christmas ago ...The gifts I got from my kids were overwhelming from a personalized Ipad skin, a waffle iron and skin care creams to keep Granny young..... "From Granny's Kitchen" did not get forgotten either she got a fabulous Recipe Binder and a stand alone Recipe Cards.... My girlfriend got me a Panini Maker something I have always wanted , used to use my George Foreman Grill now I can buy the flatbread and make proper paninis.

Kelly and Lindsay I will bring it along when we have the Poutine Party with your new T-Fal Fryer...

Today my husband took me to Future Shop to buy a case for my IPad (orange and gray plaid goes great with the hotrod) as well as a camera reader and flash drive. Thank you everyone from the bottom of my heart for making my Christmas an unforgettable day...For those of us who were truly blessed yesterday do not forget the ones that were not...After all that is what Boxing Day is about not only about the sales at the stores...We have a homeless shelter up here where I am going to take my George Foreman Grill to cause I am sure that the kitchen there will be able to use it ..so those of you that got new kitchen appliances think about where the working old one can go to, not just your Thrift Stores ....

Tomorrow on Menu Monday you will be getting LEFTOVER TURKEY recipes for the whole week..Well I have to go, Grumpy has just made us a late lunch of leftover turkey sandwich , mine with cranberry sauce, not Grumpy's though he does not like fruit with his meat , to him fruit is for dessert. Have a good day and I am signing off to set up my IPad with all the app's that I want to download. Livi sorry I missed you yesterday at Marilyns and hope to see you and Courtenay soon..

As they say a "Happy wife is a good life" but letting my husband know that I appreciate him is what makes my life good..

Cheers

Granny

Evening Everyone

Merry Christmas everyone.. Sorry for no early talk today..We headed off to Victoria to have Christmas with Grumpy's mom today. Just got home a bit ago and was getting vegetables all ready for tomorrow and got my table set now ready for tomorrow's dinner. We are off to spend Christmas morning with the little boys then off to see my brother and a good friend Marilyn..Going to Marilyn's everyday has been a tradition for at least 25 years if not more. All of that done in the morning then back home to Duncan to get dinner ready for my girls and Adam. One of the smallest Christmas dinners I ave cooked but really looking forward to a quiet dinner

Will not post tomorrow but will be back on Boxing day, cause for sure we will be watching the Junior Hockey game... This being Frugal Friday I thought for sure it has to be about all the boxing day specials on next week... This is the time of year for you to get the deals for Christmas dishes, name tag holders , napkins and tablecloth and even maybe Christmas glasses...

I have posted a picture of my Christmas Table that I have set for tomorrow and like I have said before simple is always nice...

Hope Santa is generous for all you good boys and girls and I must of been a good girl cause my husband just poured me and eggnnnog and rum .

Merry Christmas

Granny

THRIFTY THURSDAY

Morning Everyone

Well up early today to get stuff done around here. Have to wrap Grumpy's present and put it back in its hiding place..He is off on client calls today but will be home just after noon...Had a great day yesterday with the girls , went to the new restaurant in Canwest Mall or whatever you call it now, to me it is still Canwest Mall...right next to the Noodle Box and Cobbs Bread. It is a very popular place but we went at 11:30 we were the second table there and by 10 to 12 it was packed...Food was good , great prices and lots to choose from...Noisy but for a quick lunch or dinner it was wonderful..

This recipe you need to make on Christmas Eve and put in the fridge overnight and then pop in the oven Christmas morning, open you stockings and in an hour you have a good breakfast to serve to your family....

Wifesavers Breakfast

16 slices white bread, with crusts removed

slices of back bacon or ham, sliced thinly

slices of sharp cheddar cheese

6 eggs

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1/2 to 1 tsp dry mustard powder

1/4 cup minced onion

1/4 cup green pepper, finely chopped (optional)

1 to 2 tsp worcestershire sauce

3 cups WHOLE milk

dash red pepper sauce (tabasco)

1/4 lb. butter

Special K or crushed corn flakes

Use a 9" X 13" buttered glass baking dish, put 8 pieces of bread. Add pieces to cover dish entirely.

Cover bread with slices of back bacon, sliced thin or ham , make sure you meat is already cooked. It's best if your meat is about the size of the bread slice, for ease of cutting after it's cooked.

Lay slices of cheddar cheese on top of bacon and then cover with slices of bread to make it like a sandwich.

In a bowl, beat eggs, salt and pepper.
To the egg mixture add dry mustard, onion, green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, milk and tabasco.

Pour over the sandwiches.

Cover and let stand in fridge overnight.

In the morning, melt 1/4 lb. butter, pour over the top. Cover with Special K or crushed corn flakes (I use the Special K) and bake, UNCOVERED for 1 hour at 350 degrees.

Let sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. It's very nice served with fresh, cutup fruit.

Today I have a couple of small work orders to get done before the holidays really start. It is a slow time of the year for me but it is nice it allows me to do some stuff around the house and not have to venture out just be nice and cosy in my home....Looking for a good book to start to read just have not figured out what I am into reading these days ... Any ideas???

Thrifty Tip

Homemade Foaming Soap...

I love foaming hand soap. I swear I can go through an entire bottle in just over two weeks..by just washing my hands! So, I knew that my love for these hand soaps would have to go unsatisfied if I could not find an economical solution. The wonders of the web pointed me to many different sites discussing methods and recipes for refilling these jars at home! So here goes for those of you out there who feel the same way.

Materials :

Empty foaming soap dispenser

Body wash or dish soap in your favorite scent (I only use the clear body washes not the creamy types)

HOT water (not boiling but really hot)

Method:

If your soap dispenser is a little gummy around the spout (like mine), give it a rinse to clean it off.
Pour your body wash/dish soap into the empty jar. I use approximately 1 inch of body wash . For dish soap I use a little less because it foams far more. There is no exact science for this...if you use more soap, the suds are thicker.
Run you tap until the water is extremely hot.

Decrease the flow of the water and slowly fill the container , if you put it on an angle it will not create suds in your container and then leave approximately 1 inch on the top to allow room for the pump.

Carefully stir the soap and water until it is mixed. Do not shake.I use a chop stick or knitting needle.

Pump a few times until you feel warm suds and then you are done!

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

CROCKPOT WEDNESDAY

Morning Everyone.

Well off to the big city today. Going to have lunch with my girls for Kimberly's birthday...Jolene welcome home today and your first cuddle with Easton...You will love him.. Since it is Crockpot Wednesday my recipe is very simple. On Christmas morning put some Apple cider Mulling Spice in your crockpot with a jug of Natural Apple cider and you are set to go to have a hot drink while you are watching everyone open their gifts.

Today is going to be how to set a nice dinner table for Christmas...It does not take much to make it beautiful , you will find alot of the stuff you already have hanging around your house.

The first thing you need to do is have a table cloth or a table runner down the center of your table. If you do not that is okay nice place mats will work as well... Hopefully you will have some cloth napkins or a designed paper napkins will look great as well..You have to try you best to make everything co-ordinate ,not necessarily the same colour but at least all blend together..

I am sure that you are all aware that most of the stores have their Christmas decorating on sale at the stores so this might be the time to go and take a look and you will be amazed at what you can pick up for 50% to 70% off..Time to get your thinking hat on...

Here we go:

1. Folding your napkins like the attached instructions always looks nice with the cutlery placed inside and that frees up room on the table to put the plates if you are having a large crowd.

http://homesweethomebodies.blogspot.com/2010/11/napkin-folding-dressing-up-holiday.html

2. Some candles on the table are great , not to high just small little votives running down the center of the table with possibly some holly as well.. Also for a center piece you can put some Christmas bulb decorations in a glass bowl or what is also nice is your martini glasses down the center with coloured bulbs would also look great

3. I like to wrap ribbon around the chairs with some holly ,keeps the theme with the holly on the table. I know where I can get ribbon cheap so it works for me.

4. Wine glasses or water glasses are a must .. you can put you napkins folded up in them if you do not want them on the plate.

5. I have charger plates that go under your dinner plate to protect your table as well.. You should at sometime try and pick some of those up. If you go with a basic colour of gold or silver you can use them for any occassion and I have seen them at the $1.00 store around this time of year but they are probably all gone by now but just keep an eye out for them...They really add class to a table.

6. Putting name tags at the table is always good, especially if you are having company cause not everyone knows where to sit and they do not want to take someone elses seat that they always sit at .

7. Last but not least , I do not usually have Christmas Crackers I like to put a lotto ticket on everyone's plate cause after all it is the season of sharing and giving and what better way then for someone to win the 50 million and share it with all at the table.

Well nice and simple but I love to have a nice table ...Grumpy and I nearly always have out dinner at the table whether it is just us or a crowd..Takes very little time and I know that I enjoy my meal much better and appreciate it alot more.

Cheers

Granny

TIPSY TUESDAY

Morning Everyone

Had a nice relaxing evening last night. Downloaded some pictures off of my camera that I have been meaning to do for quite some time...Wow there were still ones from the summer so for sure it was about time that I did that. Today I am going to clean my house ..I have decided for a New Years Resolution I am going to be better and divide my day out so that I do a little each day and not the usually once a week or two.. I get to far behind then I hate doing it ...

Diabetes coming today to pick up some stuff I have been doing a bit more purging and this time it was my coat closet. Wow I did not know that I had so many coats but now someone else gets to use them and it makes my front closet where I can actually have space between the coats and they are not all stuffed in there..

Cleaning tips are what is happening today so here it goes...

Multitask: Tasks go faster by doing two things at once. While on the phone, I fold laundry, fluff pillows pick up magazines and books, do dishes, sweep or dust.

Do Quick Rescues: Do a 5-minute sweep through each room, taking a laundry basket with you. Place in it anything that doesn’t belong in that room, then put away the stuff that does belong there.

For glass shower doors: Take lemon oil, spread it on, go over it with a scrubbing sponge and then go over it with a soapy sponge. Deposits and soap scum will come right off. I always have a squeegee in my shower so that I wipe down the shower doors and the soap scum will not deposit on the glass as much.

Daily sorting: You should have three containers for your laundry. They can be laundry baskets, hampers, whatever fits into your lifestyle.When people take off their clothes, they should separate them into darks, whites and delicates. This presorting will make fast work of wash day.

For stains: Keep a supply of clip-type clothespins by the hamper.If you have spilled, you should take a clothespin and clip it to that spot before throwing the clothes into the hamper. That way, instead of looking for spots, you just have to look for the clothespins and launder appropriately.

Don't spend all day cleaning. Just 10 minutes will do it if you do it right.Set a timer for 10 minutes and have the kids race to pick up as much as they can before the alarm goes off. It makes it a game and you can always give them a reward at the end if you wish.

Use dishwasher for more than dishes. When it isn't quite full, fill the rest of the way with things like stove burners, vases, candlesticks and even children's plastic toys contained in a mesh bag.

To absorb refrigerator odors, place an open bowl with two or three charcoal briquettes on a back shelf.

The beeper just went off on the dryer so I am off to fold... You have a good day and talk to you tomorrow...Going for lunch with the girls tomorrow it is Kimberly's birthday so off to the big city and the traffic hubub.

Cheers

Granny

MENU MONDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

This week is going to be hectic for some who are procrastinators and then not so for those of us who are organized.. Had a great time with friends yesterday afternoon ...did not have our usual Sit Down Sunday as we were so full from all the great appy's.. Going to clean house today and just relax , watch some cooking channel shows and maybe a movie...

I am not going to do a weekly menu like the usual instead I will give you some recipes for getting your Christmas dinner ready as well as some tips to help you make it easier for you.... After all cooking is not a chore ..it is something that you should enjoy doing ..Here is a bit of a schedule that you can follow to make everything less stressful.

Monday...Checking your List

Tuesday..House Cleaning

Wednesday...Christmas Table Design

Thursday...Wifesaver Breakfast Recipe

Friday..Kitchen Duty

Today is the day that you need to go through your Christmas List and make sure that you have every one's gift....What I do is get a large gift bag for each of the kids and put their individual presents in each one and strike them off my list then I know that I have not got one of them tucked away somewhere and forgot to wrap it.. We also put their stockings in that bag as well and then I am set to go Christmas morning. We are not usually home here with everyone Christmas morning so it is not like I can put them under the tree so this makes it easier for when we have to travel down on Christmas morning...Now this year what might be a good idea for a small gift is to go and get some Lotto Max tickets for this Friday as it is 50 million and would that not be the best gift to anyone Christmas Day to have won some Lottery money.. Put them at their dinner plate as a gift from SANTA Well I have to go off to meet a new client this morning so talk to you tomorrow and have a good day..

Cheers

Granny

SIT DOWN SUNDAY

Afternoon Everyone

Sorry I did not post yesterday , got up early and had a busy day..Went to Victoria to spend the day with girlfriend Marilyn and then we went to take a Serger sewing machine lesson..learnt a lot. See it does not matter how old you get you can always learn . Grumpy went and had his Christmas lunch with his hotrod friends...Then home and off to the Cowichan Capitals hockey game...was not the results we would of liked to see but got to see the kids..

Today I am going to give you a shopping list for what you will need to cook your Christmas dinner ....

For meat a turkey and ham is a must... Turkeys are on sale at Safeway for $.99 per pound and Walmart has hams for $20.00 or a half ham for $10.00.

Now for stuffing you Safeway has Stovetop buy 1 get free...

Vegetables they have frozen Green Giant at Thriftys 2 for $4.oo or 3 lb bags of onions or carrots for $1.00 per bag at Walmart...as well as 10 lb bag of potatoes for $2.97 . You always have to have Sweet potatoes and they are $.89 per lb at Thriftys. Brussel spouts are always good as well so maybe check them out at the stores and pick up some ...You must always have buns for the gravy and they have Pillsbury Crescent rolls for $1.27 each they will make nice dinner buns.

For the ham you always need pineappple and Walmart has cored pinapple for $3.97 and the turkey needs Cranberry Sauce and you can get 3 cans for $5.00 at Thriftys you only need to buy 1 can.

Now I love to have egg nog , not for everyone and really really fattening but it is only for once a year.. $1.48 at Walmart.

Not sure if you have a breakfast in the morning but we always do at our place and I have a great recipe for a Wifesaver Bread egg and bacon Casserole that you make Christmas Eve and put in the fridge and then in the oven when you get up Christmas morning..So for this I will give you the recipe this week. The recipes this week are going to be for cooking your Christmas dinner..

You will need to have a Look Bag as well that is what I use to cook the ham in. We always cook that on our barbacue leaving room in the oven for the turkey....

Now it is time for 3C's .. Again this is for kids but adults can wear them as well..I know that Courtenay has lots of little girlfriends as does her Mom so I thought these would be cute for her to do for herself and her friends.

I have attached a picture of some decorated little gloves to give you some ideas. Also there is a tutorial and as you can see the sky is the limit to do these....

http://littlemissmomma.blogspot.com/2010/11/diy-glamour-gloves-tutorial.html

Well have a good Sunday we are off to a friends place in Victoria for an Open House. Spent this morning making Scallops wrapped in bacon with seafood cocktail sauce as the dip.. ..

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

FAST FOOD FRIDAY

Morning Everyone

Had a nice evening yesterday , food was good and company was great. Love spending time with the little boys they are just so cute...Grumpy and Deklan were playing football in the family room and Deklan went to tackle Grumpy and Grumpy moved and Pow right into the door. But no whining he just got up resumed playing football... wonder if he has any bruises this morning? I meant Deklan not Grumpy!!!!

Creamy Scrambled Eggs

in Flaky Pastry Cases

This recipe for Cheddar and Chive Scrambled Eggs(or poached) in a Pastry Shell is so elegant looking …it’s perfect for a weekend romantic breakfast. Serve it with a fruit salad and mini muffins and coffee and you have a wonderful start to your day.I like to do add-ins in my scrambled eggs…. cheese and chives are among my favorites…. so it was a natural thought to pile them into a warm pastry shell over a slice of deli ham…. drizzle a wonderful cheddar cheese sauce over them if you do not want to make a Cheddar cheese sausage you can always us a Hollandaise Sauce package...a perfect breakfast idea and so simple to make . You can use a thing slice of deli ham ...or Canadian bacon...or go meatless...either way it is delicious..the light onion of the chives is just delicious with the cheese. Another variation is not to use a pre-made pastry shell but an English Muffin

Appetizer

Ham and Cheese

Rollups

2 cans Refrigerated Bread Stick Dough, 11 Ounce Cans
½ cups Ranch Dressing
12 slices Thin Ham
1-½ cup Shredded Colby-jack Cheese
Preparation Instructions
Unroll 1 can of bread stick dough onto your work surface, but don’t separate into individual bread sticks. Press seams lightly together and form a rectangle. Spread 1/4 cup ranch dressing over dough, layer six ham slices to cover entire area, sprinkle with 3/4 cup cheese. Starting on one narrow end, roll up pressing end seam to seal. Slice with a bread knife into 8 slices. Place each slice cut side down on a lined or greased baking sheet. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Bake at 375 degrees (F) for 20-25 minutes or until bread has cooked through. Serve warm or at room temperature.

.

Well the scrambled eggs have made me hungry so I am off to make this for breakfast , have a good evening and talk to you soon.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

THRIFTY THURSDAY

Morning Everyone.

Well I am heading down to Victoria this afternoon to prepare birthday dinner for Kevin and Lindsay. It is hard to get everyone together at this time of year and with the boys Granny finds it easier if I just drive down and cook a dinner at their place then if they all head up here. Going to cook their requests of Philly Cheese Steak for Kevin and a Butternut Squash Soup for Lindsay.

Chicken Ceasar Salad

Croutons
Half a baguette, cut into 1" cubes
1 tablespoon dried oregano
Olive oil for drizzling
Salt and pepper

Dressing
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup mayonnaise
5 anchovies, packed in oil (in a can by the tuna)

2 cloves garlic, peeled
3 large splashes of Worcestershire sauce

Chicken
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Salad
1 head of romaine lettuce
1 cup chunk of Parmesan cheese

Directions
Croutons
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Place baguette chunks in a large bowl and add oregano, oil and season with salt and pepper.
Toss well, making sure the bread is well coated with oil and spread out on a baking sheet.
Toast in oven until they are crisp and golden, about 20 minutes. If you feel lazy you can always buy croutons in a box....

Dressing
Place dressing ingredients in a bowl and whisk well or alternately, puree with an immersion blender until smooth.

Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil.
When it is hot, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and then sear them for 8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through. Let cool slightly.

Salad
Tear romaine into large pieces and put into a large salad bowl.
Add croutons, slice chicken breasts, and then add Romaine.
Pour in dressing and toss well.
Garnish with the cheese by slicing it into ribbons with a vegetable peeler.

Appetizer

Warm Spinach

Artichoke Cups

24 won ton wrappers
1 can (398 mL/14 fl oz) artichoke hearts, drained, finely chopped
1 cup Kraft 4 Cheese Italiano Light Shredded Cheese
1 pkg. (300 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed, squeezed dry
1/3 cup Miracle Whip Calorie-Wise Dressing
1/4 cup Kraft 100% Parmesan Light Grated Cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped red peppers
2 cloves garlic, minced

Make It
HEAT oven to 350°F.
PLACE 1 won ton wrapper in each of 24 mini muffin cups sprayed with cooking spray, with edges of wrapper extending over top of cup. Bake 5 min. Meanwhile, combine remaining ingredients.
SPOON artichoke mixture into won ton cups.
BAKE 12 to 14 min. or until filling is heated.

For best results, spinach needs to be squeezed until very dry. The squeezed spinach should measure about 1 cup. Put it in either a tea towel and squeeze real tight or I use my Potato Ricer..Everyone needs one of those .Look for won ton wrappers in the produce section of the supermarket.

Here is a aThrifty idea for today...
I know you are all going to be cooking over the Christmas Holidays and if you use your stove top to do a lot of frying, or you just haven’t cleaned the hood vent in a while, you know that it can get pretty dirty and greasy. A thrifty way to quickly and easily clean the vent is to make a paste with cornstarch and water.
Mix approximately 3 parts cornstarch to one part water and apply the paste with a clean cloth. Once you’ve wiped the entire surface down, go back over it with another clean cloth to remove any of the cornstarch residue.
This is a great homemade cleaner that is safe to use and removes grease without costing a ton of money for expensive cleaners.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

CROCKPOT WEDNESDAY

Morning Everyone

Well today is the lucky day. One of my followers is going to be the lucky winner of my giveaway. Had a nice evening yesterday , went to some friends for some Christmas Cheer and good conversation it was good...Today I am going to go into my workshop and get some work done been a few weeks since my money phone has rang for an order so sort of looking forward to that. It is always slow this time of year which is a good thing cause it lets me get things done for Christmas. I am going to decorate my tree tonight, put some Christmas music on turn on the fireplace and have a hot chocolate and Baileys....

Sausage Sauerkraut

Crockpot

Ingredients
4 carrots, cut into 2 inch pieces
4 cups red potato chunks
2 (14 ounce) cans sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
2 1/2 pounds fresh Polish sausage, cut into 3 inch pieces
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups dry white wine or chicken broth
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon caraway seed
Directions
In a 5-qt. slow cooker, layer carrots, potatoes and sauerkraut. In a skillet, brown the sausage; transfer to the slow cooker (slow cooker will be full). Reserve 1 tablespoon drippings in a skillet; saute onion and garlic until tender.
Gradually add wine or broth. Bring to a boil; stir to loosen browned bits. Stir in pepper and caraway. Pour over sausage. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or until vegetables are tender and sausage is no longer pink.

Honey Mustard

Sausages

800 grams of sausages or a package of cocktail sausages.
FOR THE GLAZE
Combine 2 tbsp set honey and 2 tbsp dijon mustard in a small bowl until blended

METHOD
Preheat the oven to 375F
Take 800g sausages and lay in a single layer in a couple of roasting dishes, spaced slightly apart to ensure they colour .

Roast for 25-30 minutes
Drizzle the glaze over the sausages and toss to coat them
Cook for another 15-25 minutes until golden and sticky, giving them another stir
Leave to cool for 10 minutes before serving with cocktail sticks.

I have attached a picture of the giveaway prize and the winner is:

JOLENE KANE

Congratulations

This apron home made by Granny and is reversible so that you can use daily or at Christmas.

Jolene I can save and give it to you when you come into town to see you Bestfriend Krysta or mail it out. Just drop me a note and let me know what you would like to do.

There will be another Giveaway starting January 1st...

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

TIPSY TUESDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

The first thing I want to say is that I became a Great Auntie again yesterday...Caxton James (CJ) Campbell welcome to this wonderful family....Proud parents are Mark and Brittaney.
Kimberly is coming up to do some baking , TV on watching all the Christmas Cooking shows and a pot of tea and for sure it will be a great day. Grumpy delivered the trees to the kids yesterday so I am waiting for them to send me pictures of the decorated trees... Going to decorate mine tomorrow and decorate the house as well and then for sure I will be all ready for Christmas...I love doing my tree with all of my story telling ornaments...

CRISPY ITALIAN

PORK CHOPS

4 bone-in pork chops, 1/2-inch-thick (1 lb.)
1/2 cup Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing, divided
1 pouch Shake'N Bake Pork Coating Mix
4 cups arugula or mixed salad greens
1/4 cup finely chopped tomato
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
8 lemon wedges

POUND each pork chop with meat mallet, rolling pin or side of a can to 1/4-inch thickness. Place chops in large resealable plastic bag. Add 1/4 cup of the dressing; seal bag. Shake gently to coat chops evenly with dressing. Refrigerate 30 min. to 1 hour to marinate. Drain chops; discard marinade.
PREHEAT oven to 400°F. Coat chops with coating mix as directed on package; discard any remaining coating mix. Place chops in 15x10x3/4-inch baking pan.
BAKE 35 min. or until cooked through. Toss greens with remaining 1/4 cup dressing; arrange on serving platter. Top with chops; sprinkle with tomato and onion. Serve with lemon wedges.

Appetizer

QUICK HAM AND CHEESE

ROLL UP SNACKS

Ingredients
2 cans Refrigerated Bread Stick Dough, 11 Ounce Cans
½ cups Ranch Dressing
12 slices Thin Ham
1-½ cup Shredded Colby-jack Cheese
Preparation Instructions
Unroll 1 can of bread stick dough onto your work surface, but don’t separate into individual bread sticks. Press seams lightly together and form a rectangle. Spread 1/4 cup ranch dressing over dough, layer six ham slices to cover entire area, sprinkle with 3/4 cup cheese. Starting on one narrow end, roll up pressing end seam to seal. Slice with a bread knife into 8 slices. Place each slice cut side down on a lined or greased baking sheet. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Bake at 375 degrees (F) for 20-25 minutes or until bread has cooked through. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tipsy Tuesday

Lumpy or greasy gravy. If you really want to have some lump free gravy, add just a pinch (no more) of salt to your water before you begin mixing the gravy. Also, if you find that your gravy is too greasy, add a pinch of baking soda to get rid of that nasty greasiness.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

MENU MONDAY

Morning Everyone

Well the start of another week...Yesterday I was on the computer and found another crafty thing that I want to make for a Christmas gift ..not too much of a challenge just really really cute.
Going to town to pick up a few groceries and then go and get the stuff for the craft...Oh by the way the roast last night was really good. Will post the recipe in a couple of weeks...

Monday...Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken

Tuesday...Crispy Italian Pork Chops

Wednesday---Crock Pot Sausage and Saukraut

Thursday...Easy Bake Manicotti

Friday...Chicken Ceasar Salad

Fetuccine Alfredo

with Chicken

3oo(1/3of 900-g pkg.) fettuccine, uncooked
1 lb. (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1-1/4 cups 25%-less-sodium chicken broth
4 tsp. flour
1/3 cup (1/3 of 250-g tub) Philadelphia Light Cream Cheese Spread
3 Tbsp. Kraft 100% Parmesan Light Grated Cheese, divided
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp. pepper

Make It
COOK all the pasta as directed on the package.
Heat large nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 5 to 7 min. or until chicken is cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove from skillet. Mix broth and flour in same skillet. Stir in cream cheese spread, 2 Tbsp. of the Parmesan cheese, the nutmeg and pepper; cook 2 min., stirring constantly until mixture boils and thickens. Stir in chicken.
DRAIN pasta; place in large serving bowl. Pour chicken mixture over pasta; toss to coat. Sprinkle with remaining 1 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese.

Now one of my tips on a previous post was for you to cook the whole bag of pasta use 1/3 for tonight and then put the rest in a freezer bag for another night. Remember when you use the left over pasta all you do is put it in a strainer and boil the kettle and pour boiling water to heat up your pasta and then it is ready for your pasta sauce.

Appetizer

Tasty Tuna Salad

and Cucumber Chips

Mix 1/2 can white tuna in water drained, flaked with 1 tbsp Miracle Whip and 1/8 tsp each dried oregano leaves and salt. Serve with 6 thin slices cucumber for dipping.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

SIT DOWN SUNDAY

Afternoon Everyone

Well it poured up here all night. I would imagine the Mt Washington has just a ton of new snow...Miss going up there every New Years Eve. It was always a great time our kids loved it and as long as the sun was out then I was out but if no sun no Judy....Heading out to get the trees cause the rain has quit here for how long I do not know and if there is one thing we do not want to do is be cutting trees in the pouring rain... Going to have a nice pork roast wrapped in chirizo sausage and bacon if it turns out good will post it as one of my recipes in a couple of weeks.

Here is your appetizer recipe for today.

Cheesy Appetizer Loaf

3 tbsp Miracle Whip Dressing

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 pkg (200g) Mozzarella shredded Cheese

2tbsp chopped Spanish Olives

1 loaf French bread (about 24 inches) cut lengthwise in half

Paprika

Preheat Broiler

Mix dressing, garlic powder , cheese and olives

Spread mixture evenly onto cut surfaces of bread. Sprinkle lightly with paprika. Place bread on baking sheet

Broil 6 inches from heat, 1 min, or until cheese is melted. Cut into 24 slices . Serve warm.

If you are not an olive fan use 2 tbsp canned mushrooms, chopped and drained or finely chopped ham or turkey instead. Hope you have a nice family day and talk to you tomorrow...

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny