MENU MONDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Well Kimberly is all moved in , now she has the challenge of where to put everything... It is always hard to know where to hang pictures and decorate shelves... I want to thank Tracy Rompain's girlfriend for the coffee table and table and hutch.. It looks real nice in her place...This week is going to be a bit hectic to get all my orders done before we leave on Saturday.

MONDAY CREAMY ARTICHOKE CHICKEN

TUESDAY HERB CRUSTED TENDERLOIN WITH RED ONION JAM

WEDNESDAY CROCKPOT CAKE

THURSDAY LEMON PARMIGIANO CHICKEN

FRIDAY SWEET AND SPICY LETTUCE WRAPS

CREAMY

ARTICHOKE

CHICKEN

Ingredients:

For the topping

1 can artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained and chopped (I also pat them dry with a paper towel so there's no water on them)

3 TBS mayonnaise

Zest from 1 lemon

Juice of 1/2 a lemon

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp freshly chopped parsley,minced

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper

1 sprig fresh rosemary, minced

salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together and set aside.

For the chicken

4 chicken breasts

1 1/2 cups flour

salt and pepper

2 sprigs rosemary, minced

Pre-heat oven broiler on high

1. Take the chicken and butterfly each one, also making crisscross marks with a knife on the bottom of the breast to make it more tender.

2. Mix flour, salt, pepper and rosemary in a gallon size zip lock bag. Add chicken and toss to coat.

3. Heat skillet over medium-heat with 2 TBS olive oil. Cook chicken for about 5 min on each side until golden brown.

4. When chicken is done place on a baking sheet. Place a heap of the topping on top of each chicken breast, covering most of the breast.

5. Broil chicken until the topping starts to bubble and turns golden. This should take between 3-5 min.

I promise you will not be disappointed!

HOW TO BUTTERFLY CHICKEN

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqjfQP3Mp2k

Only have 5 more sleeps til I get to wear shorts everyday.. Going to miss my family and friends but get to spend 2 weeks with good friends as well... Tomorrow is the giveaway for the month of February.. One of you is way ahead so if you want to catch up you have got to do a lot of likes and comments.. LOL

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

SITDOWN SUNDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Well off to Victoria to do that final move of all the big stuff over to Kimberly's new place... then clean her old place.. She called last night to say that she was able to get in at supper time yesterday cause the carpets that were cleaned would be dry enough to start to move... She was going to get her kitchen done anyway so that is a big start for sure. Probably will not be having a sit down dinner tonight but I will figure something out when I get home just not sure what time that will be..

The 3C'S Craft today is going to still be about Easter.. I had said last week that I would help you out with decorating as well as food for your Easter dinner. Since the 3C'S last sunday was doing napkin rings with jelly beans I thought this would be a good idea for your

centerpiece. Take your flower vase and put a small juice glass inside with water and that will be where you put the flowers. Then between the glass and the vase is where you can put either jelly bean, easter eggs or even those plastice ones that you get from the dollar store.. Get the kids to decorate them .. Well have a good sunday and talk to you tomorrow.

Cheers

Granny

SHOPPING SATURDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Wow it has sure been cold the last couple of days.. I never mind the cold as long as the sun is out.. Got some painting done at Kimberlys new place and then picked up some storage bins and got her old place all organized . Want to thank Breanne for helping Kimberly to clean her old place and see you guys on Sunday for the big move...
THRIFTYS
SunRype asssorted 4 pack juice 4 for $5.00
Fresh whole frying chicken $3.49 lb
Chicken Drumsticks $1.99 lb
Chicken Thighs $2.39lb
Whole chipotle flavoured chicken $8.99 each
Family Pack Bread 3pack $2.99
Cash lot Sale for your canned good.
Olive oil buy 1 get 1 free $8.99 each
Campbells soup $4.99 a case of 12
Chick Peas buy 1 get 1 free
SAFEWAY
Red Seedless grapes $1.69 lb
Boneless Chicken Breast $2.99 lb
Tomatoes on a vine $1.99 lb
Heinz Alphagetti and beans 5 for $4.00
Pork Spareribs $2.49 lb
Heinz Baby Food 30% off
Tex Mex shredded cheese $6.99
Vim products 2 for $5.00
Apples $.99 lb
Artisan Sour dough bread $1.89

Just a reminder about Safeway how they have 10% off of your grocery bills the 1st Tuesday of the month so that would be this Tuesday
WALMART
Seedless Oranges $.57 lb
Post cereals $2.00
Chef Boyardee Pasta $1.00
Purex double roll bathroo tissue $10.00 pack
Cucmbers a pack of three $1.47
Avocados $.77
Cantelope $1.97 each
Brocolli $1.27 each
Cherry Tomatoes $1.47 for 12oz bag
Fresh cored Pineapple $3.97 each
Sweet Potatoes Spears $3.00 bag
Bolthouse Farms dressing. $3.00 bottle (I like these)
Boltouse juices $3.
Paper Towels $4.98
Heinz Ketchup 1.5 litre $4.00

This will be your last Saturday Shopping for a couple of weeks as we will not be in town so you are on your own.. I have all the faith in the world that you can do this on your own... On your shopping day just grab a flyer on your way into the store... By now you should all have a pretty good idea of what is a deal ....When you shop at Walmart they will have all the flyers for each of the stores for you to compare..

I know how much you like Pumpkin Andrea so this is why I posted this recipe for you...



PUMPKIN

BREAD



INGREDIENTS
1 cup butter
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
2 cups pumpkin puree (I LOVE E.D. Smith's)
1 tbs vanilla
3 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp baking soda
2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice

PREPERATION
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
Add eggs and beat.
Add 2 cups pumpkin and beat until well mixed.
Add vanilla and beat.
In a separate bowl whisk remaining dry ingredients.
Add to wet ingredients and mix until well combined (But do not over beat)
Pour into greased loaf pans.
Bake for 50-60 minutes checking after 50 minutes.

Yields: Two regular loaves or eight mini loaves

How about topping them with pumpkin seeds. If you choose to be sure to add them before baking.
You can substitute three large very ripe bananas for the pumpkin to make banana bread.
Wrapped in plastic wrap it stays moist longer than wax paper
Not sure what we are up to today but as long as the sun keeps shining I will be happy. No hotrod drive today to much salt on the roads
Enjoy
Cheers
Granny

FAST FOOD FRIDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Well I am off to Victoria early this morning. Going to help Kimberly with some packing, cleaning a sorting... It will be nice for her a new place and a bit bigger...Maybe she now has room to have some family dinners ...I must say one thing and that is that both my girls are good cooks ...Andrea I hope you have enjoyed some of these recipes this week... Wait til tomorrow for dessert recipe you are going to love it...

BLACK BEAN AND

SALMON TOSTADOS

Ingredients
8 6-inch corn tortillas
Canola oil cooking spray
1 6- to 7-ounce can boneless, skinless wild Alaskan salmon, drained
1 avocado, diced
2 tablespoons minced pickled jalapeños, plus 2 tablespoons pickling juice from the jar, divided
2 cups coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed
3 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream
2 tablespoons prepared salsa
2 scallions, chopped
Lime wedges (optional)
Preparation
Position racks in upper and lower thirds of the oven; preheat to 375°F.
Coat tortillas on both sides with cooking spray. Place on 2 baking sheets. Bake, turning once, until light brown, 12 to 14 minutes.
Combine salmon, avocado and jalapeños in a bowl. Combine cabbage, cilantro and the pickling juice in another bowl. Process drained black beans, sour cream, salsa and scallions in a food processor until smooth. Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and microwave on High until hot, about 2 minutes.
To assemble tostadas, spread each tortilla with some bean mixture and some salmon mixture and top with the cabbage salad. Serve with lime wedges, if desired.

This makes we feel like I am in Mexico....good place to be right now with this cold weather... Only have 8 more sleeps and we are off to Scottsdale to soak up the sun, drink some cold beer and watch Spring Training ball games... Oh yes Marilyn and I might get some shopping in there as well.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

THRIFTY THURSDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Well all of you in Victoria had quite the day yesterday.. Woke up to a ton of snow and not a snowplow in sight. ..What is up with that... We got snow here as well but not near as much as you , shoe was on the other foot for a change... I shoveled the driveway 3 times and was working on the 4 time when Grumpy arrived home early from work.. Was a great surprise and he had a Starbucks in hand what a wonderful man he is.. . I love Grumpy...

CHICKEN BREAST
WITH CREAM SAUCE

Ingredients
2 5-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and tenders removed
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon Olive oil
1 medium shallot, minced
1 cup thinly sliced shiitake mushroom caps
2 tablespoons dry vermouth, or dry white wine
1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons minced fresh chives, or scallion greens

Preparation
Season chicken with pepper and salt on both sides.
Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook, turning once or twice and adjusting the heat to prevent burning, until brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F, 12 to 16 minutes. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Add shallot to the pan and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 2 minutes. Pour in vermouth (or wine); simmer until almost evaporated, scraping up any browned bits, about 1 minute. Pour in broth and cook until reduced by half, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in cream and chives (or scallions); return to a simmer. Return the chicken to the pan, turn to coat with sauce and cook until heated through, about 1 minute.

(Now if you do not want to use the cream just put the chicken in the cooked broth as well as the scallions and heat for about 1 minute)

THRIFTY THURSDAY

Steel-wool soap pads are great for scouring, but they tend to rust. When using soap-filled scrubbing pads like S.O.S., wet the object to be scrubbed instead of the pad. The pad lasts longer and doesn’t rust as quickly. If you place S.O.S. pads in a zip enclosure bag or aluminum foil after use and store them in the freezer, they’ll last longer, too. Or you could use a quart plastic jar with a lid under the sink to store your S.O.S. pads. The jar keeps the moisture out. I also now cut the pads in half before I put them in the jar (sharpens my scissors, too). Most jobs you can get by with only half a scrubbing pad

Going to venture out today ,, just starting snowing a little bit but they are great at plowing our roads here so that never worrys me, it is the other people on the road that do... Having to drop off ribbons at the longhouse this morning , not sure if everyone will be there or not so I might have to make another trip in the afternoon. Want to say goodbye to Sarah and Kevin, we love you guys and talk to you soon..

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

CROCKPOT WEDNESDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Today is going to be cold but sunny... just about got my suitcase packed and ready for the sun that is warm...Kimberly is moving this weekend so am going to go and help her get packed on Friday .. She is moving next door so it should be quite easy.. Hopefully we can move the big stuff on Saturday afternoon and then that gives her Sunday to get organized and we get to say goodbye to an old neighbour and school chum...

CROCKPOT

CHICKEN AND

APPLES

Ingredients:
6-ounce can frozen apple juice concentrate
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1-3 teaspoons curry powder
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
3 Granny Smith apples, cored and thickly sliced
1/3 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Preparation:
In small bowl, combine thawed apple juice concentrate, nutmeg, and curry powder.
In small microwave-safe dish, combine butter, onions, and garlic. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until onion is softened. Place mixture in bottom of 3-4 quart slow cooker.
Dip each chicken breast into the juice mixture to coat and place in crockpot over onions. Pour any remaining juice mixture over the chicken. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours until chicken is almost cooked. Add apples and cook 40-50 minutes longer on low until apples are tender and chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Mix together broth and cornstarch in a small bowl and stir into the liquid in crockpot. Cover and cook on high heat, stirring occasionally, until sauce is thickened and bubbly, 10-15 minutes. Serve with some hot cooked brown rice. Makes 6 servings
If the sauce doesn't get thick enough, just add more cornstarch mixed with chicken broth or apple juice.

Hoping you are enjoying the blog , it has been up and running for four months now and not sure whether this has been worth the work or not.. Some of you comment which is great but are you trying the recipes.. Let me know as well as let me know if their is any changes to the blog that you would like to see...

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

TIPSY TUESDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Blue sky here today just waiting for that sun to shine... I never care if it is cold, I just like it when the sun shines... Then of course I do not have to work outside either. Apparently I was not listening very well the other day cause Andrea is trying to run the 10K not the 1/2 marathon in under an hour.. She says that she would be super woman if she ran the 1/2 Marathon in under an hour. Her goal is to run the 1/2 marathon but in a longer time then the hour. Maybe it was good thinking on my part...LOL...Just working today and maybe a bit more packing see how the day goes

CREAMY

GARLIC

SHRIMP

SPAGHETTI

Ingredients
6 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
12 ounces peeled and deveined raw shrimp cut into 1-inch pieces
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and thinly sliced
1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh or frozen peas
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
1 1/2 cups nonfat or low-fat plain yogurt
1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Preparation
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook 2 minutes less than package directions. Add shrimp, asparagus, bell pepper and peas and cook until the pasta is tender and the shrimp are cooked, 2 to 4 minutes more. Drain well.
Mash garlic and salt in a large bowl until a paste forms. Whisk in yogurt, parsley, lemon juice, oil and pepper. Add the pasta mixture and toss to coat. Serve sprinkled with pine nuts.

TIPSY TUESDAY is cleaning the

GEORGE FORMAN GRILL
As soon as you are finished cooking unplug the grill. Then take a couple sheets of paper towels and moisten them, placing the paper towels onto the grill. Then close the lid to let the moistened paper towels do their magic. After enjoying your meal about thirty minutes go back to the grill and the grill plates are now cool enough that you can clean them. Wiping the grill plates with the paper towels that soaked up some of the cooking residue, and then taking a clean paper towel and wipe off the grills once more.
After the grill has had a chance to cool off it's time to do the actual cleaning of the grill. It is always best to do the cleaning as soon as possible. The longer the grill has to cool off the harder it is to remove all the grease and residue. Make sure that the grease collected in the grease tray is thrown away . (Grease going down the drain is not a good idea; it can clog the drain.)
Now that the grill is completely cool use the plastic spatula that came with the grill and scrape any remaining residue that remains. If you do not have that spatula any plastice utensil will work. There are special sponges that are made exclusively for the grill and they can be found at good kitchen stores. Still, any sponge can be used with just a little bit of dish soap and water. Using the same sponge I wipe the outside of the grill clean, including under the lip of the grill. After wiping down the grill with the sponge I dry the grill using paper towels.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

MENU MONDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

This week is I am going to try and post recipes that are more on the healthy side... Andrea is training to run the 1/2 Marathon so I thought this might help her out.. I am proud of how well she is doing , her goal is to do in under and hour.. she is a very determined young lady so I know that she can do it and the least I can do is help her with some healthy recipes....

MONDAY Chicken and White Bean Salad

TUESDAY Creamy Garlic Pasta with Shrimp and Vegetables

WEDNESDAY Crockpot Chicken and Apples

THURSDAY Chicken Breasts with Mushroom Cream Sauce

FRIDAY Black Bean and Salmon Tostados

CHICKEN AND

WHITE BEAN
SALAD

Ingredients
Vinaigrette
1 medium clove garlic
1/4 teaspoon salt
5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
6 tablespoons fresh orange juice, plus more to taste
1/4 cup white-wine vinegar or red-wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Salad
1 15-ounce can cannellini or other white beans, rinsed and drained
2 1/2 cups diced cooked chicken breast
2 cups diced zucchini and/or summer squash (about 2 small)
1 1/2 cups diced celery
1/4 cup finely diced ricotta salata, or feta cheese
1/3 cup chopped, well-drained, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
1 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil, plus whole basil leaves for garnish
Salt & freshly ground pepper to taste (optional)
2 cups torn escarole or romaine lettuce

Preparation
To prepare vinaigrette: Peel the garlic and smash with the side of a chef’s knife. Using a fork, mash the garlic with 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl to form a coarse paste. Whisk in 5 tablespoons oil. Add 6 tablespoons orange juice, vinegar and mustard; whisk until well blended. Taste and whisk in up to 4 tablespoons more juice to mellow the flavor; season with more salt, if desired. Set aside at room temperature.To prepare salad: Combine beans, chicken, zucchini (and/or summer squash), celery, cheese and sun-dried tomatoes (if using) in a large bowl until well blended. Add chopped basil and 3/4 cup vinaigrette; toss until combined. Taste and season with salt and/or pepper, if desired.
Toss the remaining vinaigrette with escarole (or romaine) in a medium bowl. Serve the salad on the greens, garnished with fresh basil leaves

Well the race yesterday was great... I love it when a newcomer does so well ... The excitement of the owners, crews, driver and family brings tears to my eyes... Work ... Work... Work this week, lots to do to get ready for holidays.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

SITDOWN SUNDAY

MORNING EVERYONE
Daytona 500 here we come.. For those of us who love racing this is one of the greatest races that there is.. The whole week of festivies is so much fun.... My girlfriend and her husband are there with a couple of their kids and families they have been going there for over 30 years...Well today we are off for coffee in the hotrod , yepee!!! , and then get a few groceries... Two weeks from now we will be basking in the sun , sitting by our pool and having a few Bevees... Let the holiday begin..so here is your grocery list for week.

THRIFTYS

Armstrong Cheese 750g $7.99

Thrifty Bread $.99

Dr Oetker pizzas $3.99

Ruby Red Grapefruit 5 for $5.00

Yellow and orange tomatoes $2.99 lb

PEI Russet Potatoes $3.99 10lb bag

Fresh skinless drumsticks $2.99 lb

Thrifty soups 2 for $10.00

Cheerio Peroigies 2 for $5.00

Cottage Cheese $2.99

Sunrype Apple Jucie $.99

SAFEWAY

Kraft Peanut Butter buy 1 get 1 free

Kelloggs Cereal buy 1 get 1 free

Safeway Fresh Pasta buy 1 get 1 free

Jumbo Weiners buy 2 get 1 free

Astro Biobest yogourt buy 1 get 1 free

Aylmer tomatoes buy 1 get 1 free

Catelli Spagettie buy 1 get 1 free

Red Rose Tea buy 1 get 1 free

Royal paper towels buy 1 get 1 free

Betty Crocker cake mix buy 1 get 1 free

Crest toothpaste buy 1 get 1 free

Mia Pizza Bella buy 1 get 1 free

Clorex Cleaning Supplies buy 1 get 1 free

Sweet Cocktail tomatoes buy 1 get 1 free

Strawberries buy 1 get 1 free

Dempsters Smart Bread buy 1 get 1 free

COUNTRY GROCER

Hunts Thick and Rich Pasta 2 for $1.00

Sunrype juice your choice 4 for $5.00

SUPER STORE

Black Diamond cheese $6.99

Green Giant Canned Veg. (12) $9.96

Catelli Garden Select Pasta $2.00

WALMART

Red or green grapes $1.47 lb

Turkey $1.00 lb

Sunrype Juice Boxes $1.25

General Mills cereal $4.00

Purex laundry soap $9.00

Charmin Toilet paper $9.00

Hot house Tomatoes $1.27 lb

Cauliflower $1.47

Blueberries $1.98

Turkey sausages $2.50 each

Havarti cheese 200 g $3.97

Cantaloupes $1.97 each

Fresh gourmet Croutons $1.50 each

Fresh Express Salads $2.50 each

Clover Leaf salmon and tuna tin $1.67

Kraft Peanut Butter $3.47

Smuckers Jam $3.47

Kraft Singles slices $3.97

Ziploc Sandwich Bags $2.00

Campbells Gardennnay soups $2.00

Campbells Chicken Broth $2.00

Green Giant Frozen Vegetables $2.67

Ritz crispers $2.27

Now for the 3C'S CRAFT it is going to have a theme... As you can see from my grocery list I have told you that turkeys are on sale for $1.00 and it got me thinking about getting one for Easter Dinner. This might be a good time for young ones to think about having Easter dinner at your place and inviting you family over..(Parents would be nice). So for the next month or so I am going to be giving you ideas and recipes for you to do that. You are going to have a nice table set and good food to eat... Us as parents love it when we see that our kids are being domestic , it makes us feel that we have done something right...So here is the first craft

JELLY BEAN

NAPKIN

RINGS

For the Napkin Rings, use a sewing needle to string jelly beans onto a sturdy, double-strand thread. You may wish to put a little vegetable oil on the needle to help it slide better. Tie off the ends and then tie ends together to form a circle. Slide over rolled napkins. You can use two jelly bean strands for each of your napkin rings. Whether you are 1 or 101 we all love Jelly Beans. How about you start a favorite folder that says Easter then you can copy and paste these ideas and recipes that you like and when it gets closer to Easter you will have them all in one place....

For those of you watching the race just remember if you are in a race pool this is only the first race and if you are getting frustrated already you should not be in a pool. LOL

Do not forget to like on facebook, comment on the daily posts on the blog and now if you copy and paste this blog onto your facebook for your friends to see you will get 50 extra points.. For everyone of your friends that become a follower on my blog can also give you points... In order for me to know that they are your friend they will have to make a comment to say they belong to you...

Cheers

Granny

SHOPPING SATURDAY

Evening Everyone.

Had a hectic day today... The party was so much fun last night ... Kevin and Sarah have some great friends.. Us oldies were saying how times have changed. When we were their age we would never of thought of having our parents and their friends at our parties but these kids would of had it no other way... and for that Grumpy and I would love to thank you... The diversity of ages and jobs was overwhelming... Then we were off to Kimblery's to help her with getting ready to move into her new place and it is going to be real nice once it is all finished... Thank you Breanne for being such a big help today and to her husband and my sister for looking after my great neice so that Breanne could come and give us a hand..

I love this version of lemon meringue pie instead it is a cake... Not real sweet but so good....

LEMON

MERINGUE

CAKE

Ingredients
1 (18.25 ounce) package lemon cake mix
1 1/4 cups water, or as needed
3 eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 (21 ounce) can lemon pie filling
3 egg whites
1/2 cup white sugar

Directions
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour 3 8-inch cake pans.

Mix the cake mix, water, eggs, and vegetable oil as directed on the package, and pour batter into prepared cake pans.

Bake the layers in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes.

Let cool in pan at least 20 minutes or until completely cool.

When the cake is completely cool, run a paring knife between the cake and the edge of the pan.

Hold the cake pan on its side and gently tap the sides of the pan against the counter to loosen it.

Cover the cake pan with a plate or cooling rack, and invert it to tip the cake out of the pan and onto the plate.

To fill and decorate, lay a cake layer onto an oven-safe plate, and spread half the lemon filling over the bottom layer. Place a second layer gently on the lemon filling, and spread the rest of the filling on the top of the second layer. Top with third layer.

Beat the egg whites in a bowl until they form stiff peaks, then gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture forms a fluffy, shiny meringue. Spread the meringue all over the cake like a frosting, spreading it into decorative peaks and swirls.

Place the decorated cake back into the hot oven, and bake until the peaks and swirls of meringue are lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Refrigerate 4 hours to overnight, then serve cold.

No time for shopping lists today so will do it tomorrow..Everyone have a nice evening and talk to you tomorrow.. Grumpy just going to pour me a nightcap ..

Cheers

Granny

FAST FOOD FRIDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Well all is well today... Doing some laundry and making Grammas sausage rolls for the party tonight.. Have to go to town to pick up the bread as her recipe is made with bread on the outside and not pastry... They are so good... Will post the recipe soon..

SHREDDED

BEEF

TACOS

Buy cooked roast beef slices from your deli

1/2 head lettuce, shred

1-1 1/2 c. grated Cheddar cheese

1-2 med. tomatoes, cut into wedges

1 sm. can El Pato sauce

1 doz. corn or flour tortillas

Pace Picante Salsa, optional

Add can of El Pato sauce to cooked roast beef in a fry pan with lid and heat thoroughly then shred the beef..

Prepare taco shells to family preference.

Fill bottom with shredded taco flavored beef.

Top with lettuce, cheese and tomato.

May add salsa of your choice.

Well we are having a busy weekend with family and friends. Can't get much better then that.. Hope you all have a great weekend ... Sunday is the first race of the year, think we might just have to get into the 20th century and get ourselves a PVR...do not want to waist Sundays glued to the TV then we can watch when we want..Will have to get our grandson up to show us how it works...

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

THRIFTY THURSDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Just another day of work and no play ... but that is okay if I was always playing no money would be coming in.. Need to get lots done today have to go down and help Kimberly pack up some boxes tomorrow... Then off to Kevin and Sarah's going aways party. They are Australia bound.. She is going to managing the LULU LEMON in Melbourne how exciting for the both of them...

SWISS STEAK

AND GRAVY

1 lb. ground beef

1 egg

1/4 c. bread crumbs

1/8 tsp. pepper

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 pkg. dry onion soup mix

2 tbsp. flour

2 c. liquid (juice from mushrooms and water)

1 (4 oz.) can mushrooms
1 thinly sliced onion

Combine meat with egg, crumbs and seasoning, and half the onion soup mix. Shape into patties and fry . Remove browned hamburgers. Add sliced onion to brown then remove. Add flour to fry pan; stir while it browns lightly.
Blend in liquid, stirring vigorously until smooth. Stir in remaining onion soup mix and mushrooms and onions.; cook 5 minutes. Return meat to skillet; cook slowly five minutes. Serve with rice or buns. Serves 4-6.

Today is Thrifty Day so I have some frugal tips for you. For the moms with kids still in diapers I know you will have some empty baby large wipe boxes hanging around. Well don't throw them out and maybe share them with those who do not have little ones anymore. These little boxes can be used for storage in just about any room in your house. Wash and dry each box thoroughly and get ready to simplify and organize your home.

Use #1 In the Kitchen:

One of the boxes can make a great recipe card file

Great for storing small utensils or cookie cutters

Use to organize and store coupons.

Use #2 In a Kid's Room:

Terrific for storing small toys like hot wheels

Great for a "toy box on the go"

Fill with stickers or crayons

Use #3 In the Office:

Use these boxes to store envelopes, note cards, pens, and pencils

Store memory cards or CD's

Other great uses:

Turn one box into an easy to access first aid kit

You can also fit about 40 plastic shopping bags, folded and the air squeezed out, in one of these boxes.(We should be all using our recycable shopping bags!!!)

The ideas for using these containers is unlimited , so get your thinking cap on ..Well everyone have a great day and just to let you know it is lightly snowing up here... Hope I do not have to shovel the driveway today that was not in my plans.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

CROCKPOT WEDNESDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

I see where some of you woke up to snow this morning.. Well just to let you know that we have blue skys underneath our fast moving clouds... Only in the Cowichan Valley, (land of the sun). To all of you that went to the Elton John concerts I am in envy and I am glad that you had a great time.. I never heard one person say it was not great...

SWEET AND

SOUR CHICKEN

4 tablespoons butter, melted
3/4 c. ketchup
1/2 c. white vinegar
3/4 c. brown sugar
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
salt and pepper, to taste
dash red pepper flakes or ground cayenne pepper
1 1/2 c. chicken broth
6 boneless chicken breast halves, or cut in cubes

1 can (8 ounces) pineapple chunks, drained
Preparation:
Wash chicken; pat dry. Place chicken in slow cooker. Combine melted butter, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt and pepper, hot pepper, chicken broth; pour over chicken. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 7 hours, until chicken is tender but still moist. Add pineapple and cook for 20 minutes longer. Serves 6

Next week I am going to do some healthier recipes.. Andrea is training to do the 1/2 marathon so I thought I would help her out with the nutritional part of it... I got all my warm clothes washed and ironed , so now all I have to do is pack and I am ready for the sun and great times with great friends..

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

TIPSY TUESDAY

MORNING EVERYONE

Hoping everyone had a nice Valentines yesterday.. My husband came home with lovely flowers and I had cooked a nice dinner and a bottle of red wine , so my evening was perfect....But today like usual it is work and a quick trip to town to do errands and maybe a special coffee... I'll see.

SAUSAGE

PENNE

Ingredients
12 ounce(s) whole wheat penne pasta
1 large bunch broccoli, cut into florets
12 ounce(s) hot Italian turkey sausage ( Can be mild)
1 pint(s) grape tomatoes, each cut in half (those are the little tomatoes)
1/2 cup(s) (loosely packed) fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup(s) freshly grated Romano cheese (or Parmasen)
Directions
Heat large saucepot of salted water to boiling on high. Add pasta and cook for 8 minutes, adding broccoli when 3 minutes of cooking time remain. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water; drain pasta and broccoli.
Meanwhile, thinly slice sausage on the diagonal. In 12-inch nonstick skillet, cook sausage on medium 7 to 8 minutes or until it begins to brown, stirring occasionally. Add tomatoes and cook 5 minutes longer, stirring.
Stir pasta, broccoli, and 1/4 cup pasta cooking water into sausage mixture in skillet; heat through, adding additional cooking water if needed. Remove from heat; stir in basil and cheese.

TIP

FOR

TUESDAY

I came across this poem the other day and know how much my stepdaugher Krysta loves Audrey Hepburn . Apparently this was one of Audrey's favorite poems and it was the last poem that she read to her grandkids before she died...

"Beauty Tips for Women"
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair, let a child run his or her fingers through it once a day.

For poise, walk with the knowledge you’ll never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed. Never throw out anybody.
Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you’ll find one at the end of your arm.

As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.
The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair.

The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.

The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole, but true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul.

It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows, and the beauty of a woman with passing years only grows!

For those who went to the Elton John Concert last night , I am jealous but on the other hand I am glad that you got to enjoy the show..One more thing done off of your bucket list.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

MENU MONDAY

HAPPY VALENTINES EVERYONE

Not sure what everyone is up to today for Valentines , but whatever you chose is great, just make sure you tell your loved ones how extra special they are today as well as very special everyday.....I put a card in Grumpy's shoes when he left for work this morning and going to cook a nice roast beef dinner for supper .... Other then that it is laundry day, work day and maybe even do some packing of my suitcase for our holiday in a couple of weeks.

MONDAY Tequila Lime Chicken

TUESDAY Sausage Penne

WEDNESDAY Crock Pot Sweet and Sour Chicken

THURSDAY Swiss Steak and Gravy

FRIDAY Shredded Beef Tacos

TEQUILA

LIME

CHICKEN

Ingredients
1/2 cup gold tequila
1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (5 to 6 limes)
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (2 oranges)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon minced fresh jalapeno pepper (1 pepper seeded)
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic (3 cloves)
1 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 whole (6 split) boneless chicken breasts, skin-on

Directions
Combine the tequila, lime juice, orange juice, chili powder, jalapeno pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken breasts. Refrigerate overnight.
Heat a grill with coals and brush the rack with oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, sprinkle well with salt and pepper, and grill them skin-side down for about 5 minutes, until nicely browned. Turn the chicken and cook for another 10 minutes, until just cooked through. Remove from the grill to a plate. Cover tightly and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Now if you do not use your barbacue just use your frypan and brown the chicken like you would normally do on the skin side and then if your frypan is oven proof flip the chicken over and put in a 350 oven for about 20 minutes to finish cooking.. You can also do this chicken just on the stove top as well .. Serve with a salad or rice..

Well again everyone have a nice Valentines day and remember:

Love will put fun in together,

Sad when you are apart, and

Always joy in your heart.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny

PS: Love you Grumpy!!!

SIT DOWN SUNDAY

MORNING EVERYONE
Sorry that there was not post yesterday , just got so busy getting stuff ready for our company for the evening and doing some shopping with Grumpy... so today you get :

SHOPPING LIST
DESSERT RECIPE
3C'S CRAFT

SAFEWAY
Green grapes 5 lbs for $5.00
Pork Back Ribs fresh $5.00 lb
Pork Tenderloin $5.00 lb
Kraft dressings 3 for $5.00
Fresh Chicken Breast $5.00 lb
Garden Select Pasta Sauce 2 for $5.00
Uncle Bens Bistro Express 2 for $5.00
Green Giant Canned Vegetables 5 for $5.00
Aluminun foil buy 1 get 1 free
Motts Fruit Sensation buy 1 get 1 free
Roma Tomatoes 5 lb for $5.00
Blueberries 2 for $5.00

SuperStore
Fruit Loops, Frosted Flakes 485 g for $2.98
Fresh Pineapple $1.96 each
Catellini Pastas 300 -375gr 3 for $5.00
Avocado 5 for $2.48
Honey dew melons $2.95 each
Kiwi 4 for $1.00
Red Peppers 4 per bag $1.98

Thriftys
Aspargus $1.99 lb
Green peppers $.99 lb
Sweet bell peppers $1.99 lb
Yellow onions $.49 lb
Lunch Mates $2.69
Turkey Breast Deli Meat $2.59 100 gr
Canned Delmonte fruit $.99
Kraft Peanut butter 700gr- 1 kg $3.99
Snack Pack Puddings 700g-1kg $3.00
Ragu 700ml Pasta Sauce $1.99
1kg Bisquick $2.69
English Muffins 2 for $5.00
Minute Maid Juice 1 litre 3 for $5.00
Thrifty Tortilla Wraps 2 for $5.00
Danore Yourgourt 2 for $9.00

Walmart
2 pack fresh whole chickens $12.00
Strawberries 1 lb $2.47
Sidekicks $1.25
Beef Sirloin Bonelss Seasoned Roast $12.00
Gala Apples 3 lb bag $1.97
5 lb of Russet Potatoes $1.47
Knorr Sauce Mixes $1.00 (great for slow cooker ones)
Heinz beans , alphagettis etc, $.77
Crispy Minis , and rice cakes $1.25 (my girls, dads favorites with cheese )
Heinz infant cereals 227 gr $2.46 (for Easton)
Heinz organic baby food 128ml $.83( lunch and dinner for Easton)

Well the shopping is done now it is time for dessert.. Lets see what should I post ,how about something for Valentines day..I got it




Lots of Lovin``
Cinnamon Rolls



Dough Ingredients:(or use a loaf of frozen bread dough, let is rise, and join us at assembly directions)
Dry ingredients
4-5 cups unsifted unbleached floured
¼ c sugar
1 Tbs salt
2 packages of active dry yeast
In sauce pan heat up (until just warm, not boiling):
2 ¼ c. milk
¼ c. cooking oil
Dough Directions:
Mix dry ingredients together in a large mixing bowl. Add 1 egg to flour mixture along with warmed liquid from sauce pan.Beat it for 30 sec. on low speed, followed by 3 minutes on medium speed.
By hand, gradually stir in 4-5 cups of flour to make a soft dough.
Kneed it on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 1 minute.After kneeding let it rise covered in a warm place until doubled (45-60 minutes).

Assembly Directions:Punch down dough. Separate dough into two equal portions. Roll out to form two large squares (about 9 x 11 inches). Spread ¼ c. melted butter on top of dough. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar to heart’s desire (be generous with cinnamon and sugar). I like to mix the two together and then sprinkle on the dough.

Starting at each long end, roll the dough tightly in a roll toward the center and then stop at the center.. roll the opposite end toward the center and then pinch them together.
Slice rolls with dental floss about 1 ½ inches thick(that belongs in Tipsy Tuesday). Pinch bottom to form heart shape and indent the top for the heart. Place on greased cookie sheets. Cover and let rise for another 45-60 minutes.

Bake for 13-18 minutes at 350 degrees. Frost with your favorite icing tinted with just a drop of red food coloring. You can use buttercream icing, (click on to get recipe) but cream cheese is good too...

3C`S Craft... Feelings




Now your craft for today: It is a little different. I have been making my sock monkeys for my Pay it Forward and I do not use any buttons for faces just incase the people I give them too want them for kids so what I have been doing is embroidering their faces and I came across this image and I thought this is great to keep on hand. I know that some of you do do painting for crafts so I thought I would forward it on to you as well..

Well my blogging for today is done.. It has taken awhile cause when I went to post it I accidentally deleted it and had to start all over.. But that is okay cause the sun has come out the roads are getting dry and we are going for a ride in the hotrod.. Yippee !!! Talk to you tomorrow and thank you Danny and Marilyn for a great evening last night.. I love my FRIENDS you have a great holiday with the kids and talk to you when you get back..
Enjoy
Cheers
Granny

FASTFOOD FRIDAY

AFTERNOON EVERYONE

Well not much happened today... Did a delivery then went to our Liquidation World and bought some great small frames for pictures.. I love to have pictures of my family and friends around my home..Not that I ever have any extra space for them I like to rearrange the photos that I have and put them in different frames every once in awhile and it makes me feel that I have redecorated and it is on a budget... Our new Liquidation World is in the old Canadian Tire up here and there is so much more room and everything is arranged so nice on the shelves not like the old one where everything was in boxes all over the place...

HOMEMADE

PIZZA

PINWHEELS

Ingredients:
1 can (235 g) Pillsbury* Crescents

2 tbsp (25 mL) grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (75 mL) finely chopped pepperoni

1/3 cup (75 mL) finely chopped green pepper

1/2 cup (125 mL) shredded Italian cheese blend

1/2 cup (125 mL) pizza sauce.

Method:
STEP 1 - Heat oven to 350°F. Unroll dough and separate into 4 rectangles; firmly press perforations.(Courtenay you can do this to help mommy make this pizza)
Step 2 - Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, pepperoni, pepper and Italian cheese blend over each rectangle. Roll up each rectangle (starting from the short end); cut into 6 slices and place on a lightly greased baking sheet.
STEP 3 - Bake about 15 minutes or until edges are golden brown and cheese is melted. Serve with warmed pizza sauce for dipping.

We are off to the Capitals game tonight only got 5 left and they are batteling for a playoff spot... Hope that happens for the boys so their season does not end early for them... The weather is not good enough to golf yet, so Lets Play Hockey instead.

Enjoy

Cheers

Granny