CheeseandChocolate

A Haitus

2010-04-03T00:19:00.002-05:00

This blog will go on a haitus while I deal with some health issues. Once I am back up and running, this blog will be back. Hopefully the break will be brief. I will continue to keep up my other blog, Photographs From Here, as best as I can.

Take care,

Thoughtful Thursday- Miracle Max

2010-04-01T01:35:00.002-05:00

Have fun storming the castle.

~~Miracle Max from the Princess Bride

Thoughtful Thursday- William Arthur

2010-03-25T01:28:00.001-05:00

Flatter me, and I may not believe you. Criticize me, and I may not like you. Ignore me, and I may not forgive you. Encourage me, and I may not forget you.

~~William Arthur

Monday's Menu- Queso Blanco Dip

2010-03-22T01:06:00.000-05:00

I looked around the interwebs for a queso blanco recipe that had gotten good reviews. This one sounds wonderful, but DO NOT look at the calories per serving. Only look at the recipe and think of the yumminess it will create.

Queso Blanco Dip

Things to Celebrate

2010-03-21T05:25:00.004-05:00

March continues to speed by. This week is National Bubble Week. Bubbles remind me of Sponge Bob and Patrick. Those two have some great times. Get some bubbles this week and go out with your best friend and have some fun!

March 21- Memory Day (See. It is already working. I remembered to post this early in the day)
March 22- International Goof-Off Day (Oh, do I have plans for this day...)
March 23- National Chip and Dip Day (Yum. I love queso dip and tortilla chips. Unfortunately there are not in the house...Note to self...get some for Tuesday)
March 24- National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day (Gah! I abhor these things, but it is all I could find for this day)
March 25- National Letting Go of Stuff Day (Always a good reason for a day. Let go of bad feelings, stuff you don't use, or the balloons in your hand. Let it all go.)
March 26- Make Up Your Own Holiday Day (Mine will be called "Do Everything Your Mother Tells You To Day" or "Heavenly Day" for short)
March 27- Quirky Country Music Song Titles Day (I could not choose just one to list, so here are 5 good ones- "I Liked You Better Before I Knew You So Well", "I Want a Beer as Cold as My Ex-Wife's Heart", "You Done Tore Out My Heart and Stomped That Sucker Flat", "How Can I Miss You When You Won't Go Away", and "I'm so miserable without you, it's almost like having you here")

I almost forgot and let this pass...March 27 is National Joe Day. Call yourself "Joe" for the day and celebrate all of the "Joes" in your life. Joes are usually great guys! (Lin- this one's for you :)

Thoughtful Thursday- Unknown

2010-03-18T01:15:00.004-05:00

Persistence is far more important than perfection.

~~Unknown

Wordless Wednesday- Sweet Pea Stitch Markers

2010-03-17T00:50:00.003-05:00

Sweet Pea Stitch Markers by Cheese and Chocolate

Monday's Menu- Chocolate Macadamia Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

2010-03-15T07:18:00.001-05:00

Did you know that Godiva had recipes on their web site? Well, me neither. I was looking around and found this one that looks like a winner. Chocolate- check; peanut butter (of some form)- check; nuts (macadamia no less!)- check. Everything we need for some yummy cookies...

Enjoy.

Chocolate Macadamia Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

Things to Celebrate

2010-03-14T23:51:00.000-05:00

Chocolate Week is celebrated this week. One of my favorite weeks of the year. Make sure you celebrate this week with your whole heart! Just think of the possibilities...

March 14- Pi Day (Our pal, Pi. Celebrate today with some pie or something pie shaped. I had some cheesecake. It is cut in wedges like pie, so I say it counts)
March 15- Absolutely Incredible Kid Day (Do you have one or more of these in your life? Do something special for that incredible kid in your life)
March 16- Everything You Do Is Right Day (Don't you wish this happened every day?)
March 17- Submarine Day (Give a round of applause to those brave souls who have lived and worked on a submarine. Talk about not having much personal space. I don't think I would like that)
March 18- Forgive Mom & Dad Day (As parents, we seem to be constantly doing something- usually unintentionally- that embarrasses our children. Today give mom and dad a break and remember they love you)
March 19- National Chocolate Caramel Day (Yum)
March 20- Won't You Be My Neighbor Day (I loved Mr. Rogers. He was always so calm and peaceful. The perfect neighbor. Much better than say...Mr. Robinson- if you remember that SNL skit)

Thoughtful Thursday- Unknown

2010-03-11T00:38:00.001-06:00

When you find yourself in a hole, put the shovel down and stop digging.

~~Unknown

Wordless Wednesday- Serendipity Necklace

2010-03-10T00:33:00.000-06:00

Serendipity Necklace by Cheese and Chocolate

Monday's Menu- Crabmeat Au Gratin

2010-03-09T22:25:00.002-06:00

I had a senior moment and forgot to post Monday's Menu recipe yesterday. Never fear...I am here now with a good one. Crabmeat Au Gratin. Mmmmm. It is goooood. Maybe you can give it a try this week since we celebrate National Crabmeat Day today. Enjoy!

Crabmeat Au Gratin by Chef John Folse

Things to Celebrate

2010-03-07T22:17:00.003-06:00

This week is Celebrate Your Name Week. Do you have a common name or one that is original as you? I remember growing up I was always Merry S. because there were other Marys in the classroom. I would have loved to have been the only one. I have not heard of a child named Merry or Mary in a long, long time except when it is said together with the middle name, such as Mary Catherine. I like my name now, especially the spelling.

March 7- National Be Heard Day (Stand up and shout your wishes to the rafters!)
March 8- Panic Day (Some people celebrate this holiday every day. It you are not one of "those" people, today is your day to bring out the "drama llama")
March 9- National Crabmeat Day (I am not much for all of the work involved in picking crabs, but I do love me some crabmeat...Hooray for crabs!)
March 10- Paper Money Day (Go out today and celebrate by buying something expensive and be happy you didn't have to pay for it all in pennies)
March 11- Name Tag Day (Should you wear one today? I'll leave that up to you)
March 12- Middle Name Pride Day (Do you have a good old tried and true middle name or one that is exotic and different? Regardless have pride in that name today)
March 13- International Fanny Pack Day (Ok, you know you have worn one at least once. Maybe you still wear them as the activity dictates. Dig out that fanny pack and wear it proudly!)

Thoughtful Thursday- Mario Benton Ray

2010-03-04T00:21:00.005-06:00

Begin doing what you want to do now. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand and melting like a snowflake.

~ Mario Benton Ray

Wordless Wednesday- Opposites Attract

2010-03-03T14:06:00.002-06:00

Monday's Menu (on Wednesday)- Fantastic French Toast

2010-03-03T13:59:00.004-06:00

March is National Peanut Month, so here is a yummy recipe to try. It sounds delicious!

Fantastic French Toast

Things to Celebrate

2010-03-03T13:48:00.003-06:00

March is here! Will it come in as a lion or lamb? March is National Peanut Month, National Sauce Month, and National Noodle Month. If you go out and eat Pad Thai, I you can celebrate all three in one.

This week is Return Borrowed Book Week. Hurry up and finish that book. Someone else may be waiting for it!

I thought it would be fun to choose all food celebrations this week...

February 28- National Chocolate Soufflé Day
March 1- Peanut Butter Lover's Day
March 2- National Banana Cream Pie Day
March 3- National Mulled Wine Day
March 4- National Pound Cake Day
March 5- National Cheese Doodle Day
March 6- National Chocolate Cheesecake Day

Thoughtful Thursday- Unknown

2010-02-25T16:13:00.003-06:00

To get what you've never had, you must do what you've never done.

~Unknown

I have been a little scarce lately because I have been totally engrossed in the Winter Olympics and the Ravelympics on Ravelry.

Monday's Menu- Recipes using Girl Scout Cookies

2010-02-22T01:43:00.003-06:00

I was a Girl Scout Leader for 10 years before I "retired". My younger daughter is still active in a troop and I help out when needed. This year, what was needed was a "Cookie Mom". No problem. I picked up our troop's cookie order on Friday and had the parents come by this afternoon to pick up their daughter's cookies. These blasted cookies have been calling my name for the past 2 days. I can feel myself starting to bend to their will. It is only a matter of time...

This week I am offering you multiple recipes using Girl Scout cookies. Each one sounds delicious.

Girl Scout Cookie Recipes

Things to Celebrate

2010-02-21T23:11:00.003-06:00

February is almost over. Poor February. We just got to know ya and then you are gone.

Build a Better Trade Show Image is this week. I have nothing to say on this matter. Absolutely nothing. It speaks for itself.

February 21- Card reading Day (Head on over to your closest card shop and read some funny cards. I love reading cards.)
February 22- Single Tasking Day (Can you truly do just one task at a time?) and for all you Girl Scouts out there...today is World Thinking Day
February 23- Curling is Cool Day (Since the Olympics are on, try to catch a game of curling. It is very interesting to watch them sweep the ice)and for all you puppies in the house, it is also International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day (This is a huge event at our house)
February 24- Inconvenience Yourself Day (I am not sure how much fun this day will be)
February 25- Quiet Day (This brings back memories of my childhood and playing the quiet game. I never won.)
February 26- National Pistachio Day (Pistachios are something that you either love or don't. I fell into the don't category.)
February 27- No Brainer Day (One of the best days of the whole year!)

Monday's Menu- Magic Mint Chocolate Bark

2010-02-15T01:18:00.000-06:00

Friday is National Chocolate Mint Day. You knew I was going to find a recipe to celebrate this! Enjoy!

Magic Mint Chocolate Bark

Things to Celebrate

2010-02-14T01:01:00.003-06:00

The Winter Olympics are happening in Vancouver, B.C. and I am a very happy camper right now. Also if you are a knitter or crocheter, the Ravelympics are happening over on Ravelry.com

This week is Love a Mench Week and National Pancake Week. Take a mench out for pancakes sometime this week. You will be glad you did :)

February 14- Chinese New Year (It is the year of the Tiger)
February 15- National Gum Drop Day and the first day of the Westminster Dog Show (I love Westminster and gum too. Yea for both!)
February 16- Mardi Gras (It will be a party down here. Tomorrow will be ugly though)
February 17- My Way Day (Cerebrate Old Blue Eyes and do it your way)
February 18- Pluto Day (Poor Pluto...so misunderstood and a great dog too.)
February 19- Chocolate Mint Day (An excellent reason for a holiday...just sayin')
February 20- Hoodie Hoo Day (This holiday reminds me of Carla, a past contestant on Top Chef. I loved her)

Thoughtful Thursday- Buddhist Proverb

2010-02-11T00:57:00.002-06:00

If you are facing in the right direction, all you have to do is keep walking.

~~Buddhist Proverb

Wordless Wednesday- Simplicity Necklace

2010-02-10T23:54:00.001-06:00

Simplicity by Cheese and Chocolate

Monday's Menu- Pascal’s Manale BBQ Shrimp Recipe

2010-02-08T23:33:00.004-06:00

Since this is Saint's Celebration Week down here, I thought I would post a recipe for a wonderful recipe for BBQ Shrimp. This is Pascal's Manale Restaurant signature dish. It is so yummy. Lots of restaurants have this on their menus, but this is the one that started it all. Bon Appetit!

Pascal’s Manale BBQ Shrimp Recipe

Things to Celebrate

2010-02-08T23:08:00.005-06:00

This post is a little late due to the excitement of the Super Bowl yesterday. It was foremost on every one's mind.

This week is Celebration of Love Week. We all have persons, places, or things we love. Celebrated them all this week. We will be celebrating the Saints win down here! It is also Jell-O Week. If you love Jell-o, then you get points for a twofer.

February 7- Super Bowl Sunday! (Can you say Who Dat?)
February 8- Clean Out Your Computer Day (Now is a great time to go through your computer and clean out all of that old junk you don't need anymore. You know you have a ton of it. Once you are done, back that baby up!)
February 9- National Bagel and Lox Day (I love a bagel and cream cheese. Lox...not so much. If you love them both, go out and eat some for me)
February 10- Umbrella Day (Love your umbrella today. Love it because you don't have to use it or love it because you have one when you need it.)
February 11- Don't Cry Over Spilled Milk Day (I never understood why one would cry, but if you spill milk today, try not to cry.)
February 12- National Lost Penny Day (I am one of those people who will pick up a penny on the ground. So many people don't. I think it is fun to find money, especially in an old purse.)
February 13- Get a Different Name Day (Choose a different name today. Always wished you were named something else? Today is your day to have that name. I will go by Melissa on Saturday.)

Thoughtful Thursday- Robert H. Schuller

2010-02-04T00:10:00.001-06:00

Better to do something imperfectly than to do nothing flawlessly.

~~Robert H. Schuller

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-03T23:05:00.003-06:00

Carnelian Dreams by Cheese and Chocolate

Monday's Menu- Nutella Milkshake

2010-02-02T23:52:00.005-06:00

Friday is World Nutella Day. I know you are searching high and low for recipes to serve family and friends for this momentous occasion. I was surprised to find so many recipes that used Nutella. I have been out of the loop.

The Nutella Milkshake recipe looks very promising. Scroll down a bit to find the recipe at the end of the linked post. Let me know what you think.

Nutella Milkshake

Sorry this is a little late. I was tallying up Girl Scout cookie orders yesterday and forgot to post.

Things to Celebrate

2010-01-31T16:59:00.005-06:00

Well, hello February! Where did January go? February is Pull Your Sofa Off of the Wall Month and Spunky Old Broads Month (I am kinda partial to the later). So if you pull your sofa into the middle of the room and sit down for a chat with your favorite spunky old lady friend, you will have both covered!

National Patient Appreciation Week is celebrated this week. Does it count if I am say...standing in line at Wal Mart and I cam being patient because they don't have enough lines open? I would love to get some appreciation for that.

January 31- Inspire Your Heart with Art Day (Every day should include a love for the arts)
February 1- Give Kids a Smile Day (Hopefully your teenager will give you a smile back before storming to her room and slamming the door...I know nothing about this. Oh no not me...)
February 2- Sled Dog Day (Those silly puppies deserve a day of recognition along with a big juicy bone)
February 3- National Carrot Day (If you see Bugs, throw him a bunch from me)
February 4- Liberace Day (Our younger generation has no clue who this interesting man was. Take today to broaden their knowledge of showmanship and rhinestones)
February 5- World Nutella Day (A couple of year ago, Robyn's eyes were opened to the world of Nutella. We usually have a couple of jars in the house in case of emergencies)
February 6- Dump Your Significant Jerk Day (If you have a jerky significant other and were waiting for a reason to dump him or her, now is your chance. You can tell them you had to do it because it was the day for it and you had no choice)

Thoughtful Thursday- Edward Teller

2010-01-28T12:41:00.001-06:00

When you get to the end of all the light you know and it's time to step into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing that one of two things shall happen: either you will be given something solid to stand on, or you will be taught how to fly.

~~Edward Teller

Wordless Wednesday- I Believe Earrings

2010-01-27T00:35:00.000-06:00

I Believe Earrings by Cheese and Chocolate

Monday's Menu- Chocolate-Peanut Butter Layered Cupcakes

2010-01-25T23:21:00.000-06:00

You knew it was coming when you took a look at this week's calendar. You had to know. CHOCOLATE cake! I have a recipe that I am itching to try. Few things in life are better than chocolate and peanut butter. What more can I say?

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Layered Cupcakes

I Am Offering a Giveaway!

2010-01-24T14:09:00.003-06:00

Wouldn't you or your loved one look great in these earrings? I can see you shaking your head yes and you are 100% correct. I am offering these earrings as a giveaway on the Handmade Louisiana blog and you can be the lucky winner.

The earrings are created using Swarovski crystal and sterling silver and will go with everything.

Pop on over to the HML blog (www.handmadelouisiana.com) and enter to win.

Things to Celebrate

2010-01-24T13:56:00.004-06:00

This week is National Cowboy Poetry Gathering Week. Does this mean cowboys gather their poetry? Or do we gather poetry about cowboys? Or do we gather cowboys and then write poetry about it? Things to ponder...

January 24- National Compliment Day (Who doesn't love a good compliment! Make sure you hand them out right and left)
January 25- Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day (Bubble Wrap is one of the world's greatest inventions...along with Velcro)
January 26- National Speak Up and Succeed Day
January 27- National Chocolate Cake Day (Now here's a day after my own heart. Cake for everyone!)
January 28- National Kazoo Day (The only instrument I can play without embarrassing myself)
January 29- Fun At Work Day (It's a Friday after all)
January 30- National Croissant Day (mmmm)

Thoughtful Thursday- Unknown

2010-01-21T04:39:00.000-06:00

Forgiveness does not mean what you did is "ok" to me. It simply means I am no longer willing to carry around pain in response to your actions.

~~Unknown

Wordless Wednesday- Perfectly Silver

2010-01-20T00:33:00.001-06:00

Perfectly Silver by Cheese and Chocolate

Monday's Menu- Black-Bottom Chocolate Pie

2010-01-18T16:28:00.005-06:00

In honor of National Pie Day on Saturday, I thought a pie recipe would do nicely. As you know I am all about the chocolate, I bring you this goodie. This recipe might make me a pie convert after all.

Black Bottom Chocolate Pie

Things to Celebrate

2010-01-17T01:01:00.002-06:00

This week is National Thrift Week. Do something this week thrifty. From cutting your paper towels in half to making your own yarn from plastic shopping bags, there is always a way to make do and save.

January 17- Ditch New Years Resolutions Day (Did you make it this far? I quit making resolutions years ago.)
January 18- Winnie the Pooh Day (I am so happy A.A. Milne shared Winnie and friends with us. I love me some Tigger.)
January 19- National Popcorn Day
January 20- Penguin Awareness Day (Watch either "March of the Penguins" or "Happy Feet". It doesn't matter which just celebrate those cute little guys.)
January 21- National Hugging Day (Robyn has a friend who celebrates this every day. Yea Shelby!)
January 22- Answer Your Cat's Questions Day (I don't know if there is enough time in the day to do this, but I will try. I know Pretty's first question will be "When is everyone else in the house leaving?")
January 23- National Pie Day (Pie always reminds me of one of my favorite movies, "Michael". They have a great scene in the movie about pie...I am more of a cake person tho.)

Handmade Louisiana Craft A Long - Winter Wonderland

2010-01-14T08:10:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow is the last day to vote for the December Craft A Long- Winter Wonderland. There are 8 beautiful pieces entered; one of which is a pair of earrings by Cheese and Chocolate. Please come by, take a look at all of the entries and vote for your favorite!

Thoughtful Thursday- Henry David Thoreau

2010-01-14T01:08:00.000-06:00

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you've imagined.

~~Henry David Thoreau

Wordless Wednesday- Puzzled (Black Lab)

2010-01-13T01:04:00.000-06:00

Puzzled- Black Lab by Cheese and Chocolate

Monday's Menu- Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Ice Cream

2010-01-11T00:57:00.003-06:00

Since we celebrate National Strawberry Ice Cream Day this week, I thought a nice ice cream recipe would hit the spot. Combining strawberries and cheesecake into an ice cream? Genius!

Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Ice Cream

Things to Celebrate

2010-01-10T23:41:00.001-06:00

This week is Cuckoo Dancing Week. Does anyone out the know how a cuckoo dances?

January 10- Secret Pal Day
January 11- Clean Off Your Desk Day (I do this all of the time, but it just gets messy again!)
January 12- Working Woman's Appreciation Day (This should be everyday because we work everyday)
January 13- Make Your Dreams Come True Day
January 14- Dress Up Your Pet Day (if you dare...)
January 15- National Strawberry Ice Cream Day
January 16- Appreciate A Dragon Day (Makes sure you are friends before you get too close, ok?)

Thoughtful Thursday- Eleanor Roosevelt

2010-01-07T01:34:00.000-06:00

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.

~~Eleanor Roosevelt~~

Wordless Wednesday- Marissa Necklace

2010-01-06T01:30:00.001-06:00

Marissa Necklace by Cheese and Chocolate

Monday's Menu- English Toffee

2010-01-04T01:22:00.004-06:00

With English Toffee Day coming this week, I thought it would be fun to look up a recipe for toffee. I came across one on Cooking for Engineers. I loved just reading the recipe. I can just see a couple of engineers standing around the stove with all of their instruments out to get the details just right. I love engineers. My dad was one of the best!

Enjoy!

English Toffee

Things to Celebrate

2010-01-03T00:18:00.006-06:00

Have you said goodbye to 2009 yet? Time's a wasting and the new year is here.

This weeks is Someday We Will All Laugh About This Week. I am not quite sure what this week means, but I am always ready to laugh.

January 3- J. R. R. Tolkien Day (Put in your favorite of the Lord of the Rings trilogy in the machine and enjoy the day!)
January 4- Trivia Day (I love love trivia)
January 5- Bird Day (Celebrate your fine feathered friends)
January 6- Three Kings Day (In my part of the world, this also means it is time to break out the King Cake)
January 7- I'm Not Going To Take It Any More Day (Now if Publishers Clearing House is at your door with a gigantic check, take it)
January 8- English Toffee Day (Yummmm)
January 9- National Static Electricity Day (It will be hard to celebrate something so shocking)

Thoughtful Thursday- Miracle Max

2010-01-01T01:35:00.000-06:00

Have fun storming the castle.

~~Miracle Max from the Princess Bride

Thoughtful Thursday- Cara

2009-12-31T11:46:00.005-06:00

A conversation between father and daughter.

A father calls the house on his way home from work. His younger daughter answers the phone. She cuts him off because she is online talking to friends and wants to get back to them. Dad comes home annoyed because he was cut off.

Dad- I didn't appreciate you cutting me off when I called earlier. It could have been important. I could have driven off of the bridge and that was my only call for help.

Daughter- Oh. OK.

Next day, Dad calls the house on the way home from work. The same daughter answers the phone.

Daughter- Hi Dad. Before I hang up on you, did you drive off of the bridge?

Monday's Menu- Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup Clone

2009-12-28T23:52:00.005-06:00

I love to get this soup when I go to Outback Steak House. I have been known to get the soup as an appetizer and again as my entree. It is that good. I used to have a recipe for an excellent version of this soup, but it is hiding from me. Looking around the net, this one looks promising. Read the reviews for the substitutions others made when giving it a try. I will be giving this one a whirl.

Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Onion Soup

Things to Celebrate

2009-12-28T23:19:00.004-06:00

I am a little late this week due to being out of town for Christmas and not being fast enough to beat Cara to the computer. I give you permission for 2 passes this week to make up for posting late.

This week brings us the end of 2009 and the beginning of 2010. Will you say two thousand ten or twenty ten? I can see me saying both. I guess I will have to wait and see which one I stick with.

January is Bath Safety Month, Oatmeal Month, and Soup Month. See if you can celebrate each one.

This week is Diet Resolution Week. The first part of the week you get your mind around going on a diet and eat all of your favorite things. The later part of the week you kick yourself for adding those last extra pounds on.

December 27- Make Cut-out Snowflakes Day
December 28- Card Playing Day
December 29- Texas Admission Day (As someone who was born in Texas, I felt the need to share this for those not in the know :)
December 30- I can't find a celebration for this day...but the first color TV was sold on this date in 1953 for $1,175.00.
December 31- Make Up Your Mind Day
January 1- Z Day (another one I had to look up- Z-Day)
January 2- National Science Fiction Day (Kinda goes along with Z Day)

Thoughtful Thursday- Saint Francis de Sales

2009-12-24T02:54:00.002-06:00

Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections but instantly set about remedying them - every day begin the task anew.

~~Saint Francis de Sales~~

Wanna Be a Winner? Get Your Techie On!

2009-12-22T23:26:00.007-06:00

Handmade Louisiana is having another giveaway. This time it is for a full artisan domain name and support package for a full year! How cool is that? Very. Head on over to the Handmade Louisiana blog and check out the details. Do you know how amazing it would be to win this? I know you do.

Monday's Menu- Eggnog Quick Bread

2009-12-21T02:48:00.001-06:00

I love to make quick breads this time of the year. They made great gifts to have on hand to bring when you visit friends and relatives this time of year. In honor of Eggnog Day this week, I thought this would be a great recipe to try. I hope you enjoy it as well.

Eggnog Quick Bread

Things to Celebrate

2009-12-20T01:51:00.009-06:00

This week Halcyon Days are celebrated. I admit to not knowing what this was. Thankfully the Internet tells me everything I need to know ;P

December 20- Go Caroling Day (You don't have to go out and go caroling. Find a friend and sing your favorite carols.)

December 21- Look At The Bright Side Day (Always a good idea!)
December 22- National Haiku Poetry Day
December 23- Popcorn Popping Day
December 24- National Eggnog Day
December 25- Christmas Day
December 26- National Whiners Day (This is for those who were on Santa's naughty list.)

Thoughtful Thursday- Abraham Lincoln

2009-12-17T02:01:00.002-06:00

Most people are as happy as they make up their minds to be.

- Abraham Lincoln

Wordless Wednesday- Fall Comes Later Down Here

2009-12-15T14:16:00.001-06:00

Monday's Menu- Chocolate-Covered Cheesecake Squares Recipe

2009-12-14T01:43:00.000-06:00

Wednesday is Chocolate Covered Anything Day (just typing that makes me happy). So to give this day its due, I thought this would be a fun recipe. I can already tell I will probably cheat and buy store bought cheesecake, but then again...maybe not. Enjoy!

Chocolate-Covered Cheesecake Squares Recipe

Things to Celebrate

2009-12-13T01:51:00.001-06:00

Tell Someone They Are Doing A Good Job Week is celebrated this week. It is good to tell people this more often that once a year, but I know you are already doing this.

December 13- National Cocoa Day (now is a good time for hot chocolate)
December 14- Mini Golf Day
December 15- Cat Herders Day (one of my favorite videos explains this so well- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_MaJDK3VNE)
December 16- National Chocolate Covered Anything Day (Booyah!)
December 17- National Re-Gifting Day (label maker anyone?)
December 18- Wear a Plunger On Your Head Day (I so hope to see someone celebrating this day)
December 19- National Oatmeal Muffin Day

Thoughtful Thursday

2009-12-10T02:00:00.001-06:00

People may not remember what you did or what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel.

- Unknown

Wordless Wednesday- Hanging By a Thread

2009-12-09T23:20:00.001-06:00

Holiday Meme

2009-12-08T23:06:00.005-06:00

I am a sucker for memes. I love to read responses to the questions and get a look into how another person thinks. The holiday season is a great topic. I saw this meme on Duck and Wheel With String who saw it on Lola's Diner. Feel free to play along too.

1. What is your favorite holiday show/animated show?

My favorite holiday movie is "It's a Wonderful Life." I am a huge Jimmy Stewart fan. My favorite animated shows are "Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer" and "A Charlie Brown Christmas". I love them both. I couldn't choose just one.

2. What holiday character do you think you're most like?

Clarence Oddbody, AS2 (Angel Second Class, from "It's a Wonderful Life"

3. What holiday character does your spouse think you're most like?

Peppermint Patty from "A Charlie Brown Christmas"

4. Favorite Christmas/holiday song?

"We Three Kings" especially the version by the Barenaked Ladies with Sarah McLachlan (LOVE BNL)

5. Most hated Christmas/holiday song?

It is a toss up between "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer" (why would we want to sing about that) and "All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth" (I guess I am greedy...I want other things than that)

6. If you have an all holiday music radio station when do you start listening to it?

I would listen to it all year long if I could. I love Christmas music.

7. If you have an all holiday music radio station do you love it or hate it?

See #6

8. Have you ever wrapped yourself as a Christmas present? Come on...you can tell!

No, I am not going there.

9. Who is Rudolf The Red Nosed Reindeer's father?

According to the TV show, it was Donder, but I think they say Donner in the show.

10. Do you drive your neighborhood or one near you at night to look at other people's holiday decorations?

It is one of our family traditions to see who has the tackiest display. We refer to it as "the true meaning of Christmas".

11. When you see a heavily decorated house do you think, 'oh that's lovely'? Or do you think, 'oh criminy, that looks like Christmas threw up all over their lawn'?

Heavily? That usually falls in the "true meaning of Christmas category". No thank you.

12. Are you counting the days to Christmas with excited anticipation or dread?

Always excited anticipation. I am still a kid at heart.

13. When was the last time you had your photo taken with Santa? Did you sit on his lap?

When Cara was 2. She refused to take a Santa pic, so I sat on his lap with her.

14. Do you make a Christmas list for your spouse or significant other or do you rely on them to pick your gift(s) without a clue from you?

I make a list. I love Phillip, but picking out things I like is not his forte.

15. When do you put up your tree?

It is usually up by now, but this year we are slackers.

16. Real or fake?

Fake. I am allergic to most trees and would prefer breathing to a real tree.

17. When do you take your tree down?

If I had my way it would be after New Year's, but Scrooge, I mean, Phillip wants it down right after Christmas.

18. Do you shop the day after Christmas sales? What do you shop for?

Sometimes. I don't hit the big sales, but I might check out smaller places for wrapping paper, tags, bows, etc.

19. Is your work/office having a holiday party this year? Will you attend?

I will party with the dogs and cats at home.

20. Do you have your New Year's Eve Plans set yet?

Yes, we always have Phillip's brother and some friends over. They are usually gone by the time midnight arrives though. Phillip and I usually stand outside and watch the neighbors' fireworks.

Monday's Menu- Applebee's White Chocolate and Walnut Blondie Copycat

2009-12-07T01:27:00.000-06:00

National Brownie Day is on Tuesday. While searching for brownie recipes, this recipe came up time and time again. I wonder what is the excitement about. I know you think I am nuts. Merry is opting NOT to make a chocolate brownie? Yes, it is out of character for me, but my curiosity wins over chocolate sometimes (just sometimes). I think I will give this one a play. I hope it sounds good to you too.
Applebee's White Chocolate and Walnut Blondie

Things to Celebrate

2009-12-06T01:37:00.002-06:00

This week is National Handwashing Awareness Week. Are you creeped out too when people go to the restroom and then leave without washing their hands. The hair on my arms is standing up as I type this.

December 6- Put On Your Own Shoes Day (I guess I will have to wear shoes then)
December 7- Letter Writing Day (emails don't count...you remember paper and pencil don't you?)
December 8- National Brownie Day (if you stop by the bakery for a brownie, get a pastry for tomorrow)
December 9- National Pastry Day
December 10- Human Rights Day
December 11- International Mountain Day (if you don't live by a mountain, go in your family room, think of your favorite mountain and sing "The Sound of Music" like Julie Andrews did on her mountain top)
December 12- Day of the Horse

Thoughtful Thursday- Unknown

2009-12-03T01:55:00.003-06:00

Faith makes things possible...not easy.

- Unknown

Wordless Wednesday- Birthday Girl (with no sound just for Lin :)

2009-12-02T04:11:00.003-06:00

Monday's Menu- Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

2009-11-30T13:15:00.004-06:00

With National Cookie Day on Friday, I thought a great cookie recipe would be in order. I love this recipe. It makes the most wonderful soft cookies. I would have never thought about adding pudding to the mix, but it is the ingredient that makes it all possible. Enjoy!
Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

Past recipe review- Um, well... I admit it. I am a lazy cook. I have good intentions and then I don't always follow through. I don't do enough planning ahead of what I am cooking and then here it is Monday and I haven't tried the recipe. So I am not going to stress about not having tried the recipe by the time the post is due and just post when I have tried the recipe. I do plan to try all of the recipes I post...really.

Things to Celebrate

2009-11-29T23:16:00.005-06:00

Two more days until December. Where, I mean WHERE did the year go? It went fast most of the time. December is Read A New Book Month. I used to read like a fiend, but since I have started knitting, I haven't read much at all (do knitting books count?). I need to break one from the ever growing piles and curl up with a good read. Books are so wonderful.

Christmas Tree Week is celebrated this week. Do you have your tree up yet? We don't, but might by the weekend.

November 29- National Chocolates Day (it is celebrated here EVERY day)
November 30- Stay At Home Because You're Well Day (go ahead...we won't tell)
December 1- Eat a Red Apple Day
December 2- Special Education Day
December 3- Jazz Day (if you don't have any jazz to listen to listen to your favorite song and do some "jazz" hands)
December 4- National Cookie Day
December 5- International Ninja Day (pull out your ninja skills and go crazy)

With the girls off from school all last week, I took the week off from everything. I had a great time!

You still have time to get in on the Handmade Louisiana's November Give Away. Entries close on December 1st for the fabulous black and gold umbrella offered by the New Orleans Umbrella Company. With the Saints 10-0 (still can't believe it), this will be fun to have when they play in the Superbowl. In this neck of the woods, the Saints playing in the Superbowl is on every one's Christmas list this year.

Handmade Louisiana Give Away- November

2009-11-17T23:21:00.004-06:00

Want to win a cool New Orleans Saints inspired umbrella? It would be perfect for cheering on the Saints to another win on their way to the Super Bowl. Handmade Louisiana has a give away this month hosted by the New Orleans Umbrella Company. The umbrella is absolutely gorgeous! Check out the give away and enter to win!

Monday's Menu- French Toast with Vanilla Syrup and Pecans

2009-11-16T08:38:00.000-06:00

Thursday is Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day. Looking for a recipe for something made with Coke brought lots of choices. This one looks yummy!

French Toast with Vanilla Syrup and Pecans

Previous recipes- Cracker Candy- It was good but more time consuming than I wanted for what I wanted. Since I make a bunch of candy at Christmas, I tend more toward recipes that are less labor intensive. I will keep this one in the recipe file for later though.

Stacy's Chocolate Chip Cake- This was very good. It made great cupcakes and were a hit with everyone who tried one. Another one for the file.

Things to Celebrate

2009-11-15T20:18:00.005-06:00

This week is Bladder Health Week. This needs no explanation.

November 15- Pack Your Mom Lunch Day
November 16- Have a Party With Your Bear Day
November 17- Electronic Greeting Card Day
November 18- Married to a Scorpio Support Day (They must have created this just for me :)
November 19- Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day (I celebrate this everyday)
November 20- Traffic Light Day
November 21- World Hello Day

Sorry things were slack on the blog this week. I had jury duty and it threw me off. The good news is there is one less drug dealer out on the street.

Things to Celebrate

2009-11-08T18:53:00.005-06:00

This week is National Split Pea Soup Week. I have never understood the lure of Split Pea Soup. It icks me out looking at it.

November 8- X-ray Day Hopefully no one will need an x-ray today. Just be glad we have them in case we do.
November 9- Go To An Art Museum Today Day
November 10- Area Code Day I'm not quite sure what to do on this day, but give a shout out to your area code anyway.
November 11- National Sundae Day
November 12- National Pizza With The Works Except Anchovies Day There is a reason the anchovy gets no respect...I'm just sayin
November 13- International Day of Kindness
November 14- National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day

Wordless Wednesday- Finding the Perfect Nest

2009-11-05T00:42:00.000-06:00

Monday's Menu

2009-11-02T20:18:00.004-06:00

I like to make candy around Christmas to give to family and friends. I am always on the lookout for a good candy recipe. I have seen this candy on a couple of sites, but have never made it. So this week I will give Cracker Candy a try.

Last Monday's Menu recipe- Stacy's Chocolate Chip Cake. I still need to give this one a try. I promise I will. Really.

Things to Celebrate

2009-11-01T12:32:00.006-06:00

We are now in November. Where has this year gone? November is National Pepper Month. Whether it is black pepper, jalapeno peppers or something in between, make sure pepper is somewhere in your game plan.
National Art Week is celebrated this week. Give your favorite artist some props.

November 1- National Men Make Dinner Day (this should be every day)
November 2- Plan Your Epitaph Day
November 3- Sandwich Day (what would we have done if the Earl of Sandwich didn't want to stop playing cards?)
November 4- National Candy Day (if you don't have any Halloween candy left over, this is your excuse to run out and buy some more!)
November 5- National Doughnut Day (note to self: buy donuts on Thursday)
November 6- Marooned Without a Compass Day
November 7- Hug a Bear Day (I think giving a bear hug works too)

Wanna Be a Winner?

2009-10-30T22:04:00.003-05:00

This weekend is The VooDoo Experience, here in New Orleans. One thing about south Louisiana, we have great music and great music festivals. This one is no exception. One of the bands playing this weekend is the Benjy Davis Project. They are from Baton Rouge, just up the road from here. The band is offering a autographed CD and poster to one of readers of the Handmade Louisiana blog. To enter, head on over to Handmade Louisiana and check out the steps for entering the drawing. It's easy and you might win some great music from a great Louisiana band.

Where Have I Been

2009-10-29T23:14:00.004-05:00

I am still around. I am in a knitting frenzy. About 10 months ago, I started knitting again and the knitting bug has bitten me hard. I love everything about it, from the buying of the yarn, to browsing patterns on Ravelry, to binding off my finished work. I have not done much of anything else in my spare time other than knit. It brings me joy and joy is a good thing. I love making hats for cancer patients and scarves for troops overseas and for battered women. It is fun to knit prayer squares to send to Melfort Orphanage in Zimbabwe. I get on the computer and instead of coming here to post, I go to Ravelry to check out the patterns or look at the goodies on the online yarn stores. I completely forget to post. I apologize for not holding my end up on the blog. I will do better, but you might get tired of hearing about my knitting :)

Wordless Wednesday- Moo

2009-10-21T00:12:00.002-05:00

Handmade Louisiana Give Away- October

2009-10-20T23:35:00.003-05:00

Handmade Louisiana is hosting a give away for the month of October. What can you win, you ask? It is a yummy leaf shaped soap by Mamas Little Monkeys. The winner will get to choose from one of three options and each one smells heavenly. To get in on the action, check out the Handmade Louisiana blog and follow the directions for entries.

Good luck everyone!

Monday's Menu- Stacy's Chocolate Chip Cake

2009-10-19T12:10:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was Chocolate Cupcake Day. Since I was slow in posting this week's calendar, I gave everyone the permission to celebrate this day any day this week. I wanted to find a new chocolate cake recipe I could use for cupcakes and here it is. It sounds really yummy and it has that special ingredient you know I love, chocolate!

Stacy's Chocolate Chip Cake

Last Monday's Menu recipe: Patti LaBelle's Over-the-Rainbow Macaroni and Cheese

I so love this mac and cheese recipe. It is full of cheesy yumminess. I forgot to use ANY of the butter and it still tasted great. I think I will continue to forget the butter the next time I make this recipe. Did anyone else give it a try?

Things to Celebrate

2009-10-18T22:09:00.003-05:00

October 18 - 24
This week is National Chemistry Week. Chemistry was not one of my strengths in school, but I am happy to celebrate it and all of the wonderful benefits it has brought.

October 18- National Chocolate Cupcake Day (Since I was late in posting this, you all have the opportunity to celebrate this day anytime this week. Merry says it is OK.)
October 19- Evaluate Your Life Day
October 20- National Fruit Day
October 21- Caramel Apple Day
October 22- Used Car Day
October 23- IPod Day
October 24- National Bologna Day (OK, gather round, I will tell a story from my childhood...I was a flower girl for my uncle's wedding. At the rehearsal dinner, they served filet mignon.. I asked the server if I could have a bologna sandwich instead. I was six at the time. I assure you that I would choose the filet over the bologna sandwich now (although a good bologna sandwich is a heavenly thing.)

Monday's Menu- Mac and Cheese

2009-10-05T19:11:00.007-05:00

In honor of Moldy Cheese Day (October 9), I want to make my favorite mac and cheese recipe. I saw it made years ago on Oprah (when I still watched it). It is yummy. The only adaptation I make to the recipe is I use Velveeta slices instead of cubing the Velveeta. I think it spreads the yummy taste of the Velveeta around a lot better. Get your forks ready. This one is good.

Patti LaBelle's Over-the-Rainbow Macaroni and Cheese

Last week's recipe: Double Peanut Butter Cheesecake Swirled Brownies

These were good, but not a great as I had hoped. They were a lot of work. When you got a bite with the Reese's Cup on it, then it was heaven. If not, then it was just ok.

Things to Celebrate

2009-10-04T13:40:00.008-05:00

October 4 - 10

This week is World Space Week. Whether it is the great blue yonder or the area between your ears, celebrate the space in your life this week.

October 4- National Golf Day
October 5- Long Walk Day (Take a long walk today, but watch out for the piers)
October 6- Mad Hatter Day (Take every opportunity to think about Johnny Depp today since he is playing the Mad Hatter in Alice in Wonderland)
October 7- Bald and Free Day
October 8- National Fluffernutter Day
October 9- Moldy Cheese Day
October 10- Tuxedo Day

Amazing Artisans- Handmade Louisiana

2009-10-02T14:58:00.004-05:00

Handmade Louisiana is a group of wonderful artisans who have joined together to offer advice, support and information its members. We currently have a "Craft A Long" contest running. The theme is Education. Check out our blog and contest at Handmade Louisiana. Be sure to click on the tab at the top called "Where to Buy". There you can get a glimpse of many of the things our members have to offer. I am so proud to be a part of this group.

Thoughtful Thursday- Cara

2009-10-01T00:05:00.006-05:00

After watching "Glee" last night, Cara asked...

Cara: Who sang the song "Somebody to Love?"
Cara: Was it Prince?
Mom: No baby, it was Queen.
Cara: I was close. They are both royal.

She is right :)

Wordless Wednesday- Augustine

2009-09-30T14:12:00.002-05:00

Monday's Menu

2009-09-28T22:33:00.004-05:00

Wednesday is Homemade Cookies Day, so we will celebrate over here by making Double Peanut Butter Cheesecake Swirled Brownies. I know I am cheating. This is not a cookie or even a bar (which seems to get thrown in with cookies). I was looking for a good cookie recipe to try and I could not get this one out of my head. I decided that I would cave in and try it. Maybe I will make a cookie recipe for National Brownie Day.

Last week's recipe- Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread. It was very good. Nice and chocolaty. Definitely one to make again.

Things to Celebrate

2009-09-27T17:08:00.004-05:00

Since we overflow into October (my favorite month) this week, I wanted to let you know that October is Right Brainers Rule Month. Most of the people who use the right side of their brain are left handed and have learned to adapt to a right handed world. Celebrate your lefty friends (me included) this month. Left handed people are in their "right" mind.

September 27 - October 3

This week is Banned Books Week. Click on the link to check out what books are banned and which ones have been challenged. I was surprised to find out some of my favorites were on the challenged list.

September 27- Ancestor Appreciation Day
September 28- Love Note Day (you know you need to write one to someone you love)
September 29- National Mocha Day
September 30- National Woman's Health and Fitness Day
October 1- Homemade Cookies Day (we will be celebrating here)
October 2- National Denim Day
October 3- Change a Light Day

Amazing Artisan- David Trautrimas

2009-09-25T18:39:00.004-05:00

This week's amazing artisan is David Trautrimas. Mr. Trautrimas is a photographer who uses his digital photos to recreate architectural images. He takes ordinary, every day items and takes them completely apart. His latest series, Habitat Machines, involves taking micro photographs of each disassembled part and reassembling them to create images of futuristic buildings. I enjoy looking at his photos and try to figure out what the different parts of each structure used to be. Mr. Trautrimas has a wonderful eye and wit to his photos. Examples of his work can be found at his web site, David Trautrimas, as well as several other web sites like LE Gallery, Photo-Eye Gallery, and Environmental Graffiti. Enjoy!

Thoughtful Thursday- Albert Einstein

2009-09-24T07:48:00.002-05:00

The definition of insanity is continuing to do the same thing over and over, and then expecting different results.

- Albert Einstein

Wordless Wednesday- Me

2009-09-23T07:41:00.001-05:00

Monday's Menu

2009-09-21T23:46:00.002-05:00

Since Saturday is Johnny Appleseed Day, I thought I would give a recipe with apples a try. I didn't want to make a pie (I didn't realize there were so many apple pie recipes!), so I went with something that used applesauce. Also, since some of us (Me) are all about chocolate over here, I thought something with chocolate would go down smooth. This is the recipe I will try this week:

Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Last week's recipe: Creamy Double Decker Fudge. I plan on making this tomorrow. I bought all of the ingredients today, but didn't get around to making the fudge. I will be stuck home tomorrow, so the fudge will get made. I'll post a review when I give them a try.

ETA: The fudge was very good, but there was no way in the world I could have gotten 4 dozen pieces out of this recipe.

Things to Celebrate

2009-09-20T07:18:00.003-05:00

September 20- 26

This week is National Flower Week. Go out and buy yourself a bunch of flowers. You need to treat yourself.

September 20- Women's Friendship Day
September 21- Miniature Golf Day (Putt Putt anyone?)
September 22- Ice Cream Cone Day
September 23- Checkers Day (King me!)
September 24- National Bluebird of Happiness Day
September 25- National One-Hit Wonder Day (My favorite one-hit wonders- "I'm So Sexy" by Right Said Fred, "Too Shy", by Kajagoogoo, "Our House" by Madness, and "You Get What You Give" by the New Radicals)
September 26- Johnny Appleseed Day

What are your favorite one-hit wonders?

Amazing Artisan- Nikki McClure

2009-09-18T22:07:00.003-05:00

Tonight I went to a showing of the film, "Handmade Nation" by director/producer Faythe Levine. It is a wonderful documentary about artisans who create handmade goods and the indie craft movement. I was thrilled to see a large turn out for the viewing. Every seat was taken. If you get a chance to see the movie, please go see it.

One of the artisans featured in the movie was Nikki McClure. I was fascinated by Ms. McClure's art. Her paper cuttings are wonderful studies of human life and nature. She cuts her cuttings out of a single piece of paper using only an X-acto knife. It was interesting to see her create an image from a broad representation of an object drawn on the paper. Ms. McClure's website, Nikki McClure, offers a more detailed description of her work and where her work can be found.

Below is a video about Ms. McClure and her art. Enjoy.

Nikki McClure by Dicky Dahl from PatCastaldo on Vimeo.

Thoughtful Thursday- Unknown

2009-09-17T06:02:00.001-05:00

You don't have to see to believe, but you must believe to see.

- Unknown

Wordless Wednesday- What Is It About Countertops?

2009-09-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Monday's Menu

2009-09-14T23:37:00.003-05:00

Since posting that Friday is National Chocolate Day, I cannot get chocolate out of my head. I decided to look for a new fudge recipe to add to my repertoire. I make fudge and other assorted yummies to give as gifts each Christmas. It is hard to beat a microwave fudge. This one looks like it could be another winner.

Creamy Double Decker Fudge

Last week's recipe: Don's World Famous Gumbo

I didn't make any gumbo this week. Even though it was rainy so much this week, it is still too hot to eat gumbo (at least for me). I will be making it soon. I love it so.

Things to Celebrate

2009-09-13T23:58:00.002-05:00

September 13- 19

This week is Substitute Teacher Appreciation Week. Go out and appreciate those subs everywhere. It takes someone special willing to be in classrooms with 12-18 year olds.

September 13- Positive Thinking Day
September 14- Eat a Hoagie (or Po Boy if you are from round here) Day
September 15- Make a Hat Day
September 16- Collect Rocks Day
September 17- Citizenship Day
September 18- National Chocolate Day (it will be a big day at our house I can tell you)
September 19- International Talk Like a Pirate Day (The whole world will be saying "Arrrr"

Thoughtful Thursday- Jean Nidetch

2009-09-10T07:40:00.002-05:00

It is choice, not chance that determines your destiny.

~~Jean Nidetch