Thanksgiving Table

Thanksgiving/Fall Table Topper

This is a quick, easy centerpiece that can be less than $10, maybe even less, using store bought and in home items. Not only is it simple, it is elegant and actually brings somewhat of a relaxing viper to the table.

Items:

• Circle or Square Placemat in fall colors
• 1 Pillar Candle holder, medium to tall (could even be a hurricane with small pumpkins inside)
• 1 Garland of Fall Leaves
• 2-3 Small Holiday Candles

Directions:

Place the pillar in the center of the placemat with a decorative pumpkin or a candle on top. Bunch the garland of leaves up against one side of the pillar with some on top (or around the pillar). Add candles to the other side if desired.

And there is a quick, easy, inexpensive tip for a Thanksgiving centerpiece. Happy Holidays!

 

Whipped Pumpkin Pie

Whipped Pumpkin Pie

Looking for a light, melt in your mouth, flavorful pumpkin pie recipe for the holidays, look no further! Forget the evaporated milk or heavy cream, this pumpkin pie uses whipped cream topping in the mix and is truly easy to put together and is the first pumpkin pie this baker has made that came out cooked and set in the cooking time as directed on the back of the pumpkin purée can. For those who want a festive desert for the holidays, this is it.

 



Ingredients:

• 30 oz. can Pumpkin Pie Purée (yes, pumpkin pie purée)
• 1-1 1/4 cup Whipped Cream (found in the freezer section beside pie shells)
• 1/4 cup Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
• 2 Eggs, beaten
• 1 Tablespoon Cinnamon
• 1/2 Teaspoon Nutmeg
• 1 or 2 Deep Dish Pie Shells

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degree Fahrenheit, as directed on the pie shell package, poke some holes around the bottom of the shells (to keep from bubbling up), place on a cookie sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
2. While the shell/shells cook, mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl until well combined.
3. Once the shells are cooked, wait about 5 minutes and then pour the pumpkin mixture into one or two shells.
4. Cook on 425 degree Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, then turn the heat down to 350 degree Fahrenheit and cook for 50-60 minutes until the pie is set.
5. Once cooked, let cool for 10 minutes, cut and serve and relax.

A good pumpkin pie will have folks coming back for more over and over and this one will do that. Not only good for the holidays, but also for holiday cooking functions, covered dishes, and pie or desert meets. Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!!!

Thanksgiving Planning

Thanksgiving Planning

Thanksgiving is one of the best holidays because it really is all about the food, but sometimes that food can be pretty expensive depending on the number of people, what is being served, and when the food items are bought. Planning for the big dinner few weeks in advance is a good way to reduce stress, better plan the menu, and helps the cook not to over do it on the menu. Here are several tips to help the Thanksgiving cook save money and stress during Thanksgiving.

Items to Buy Before or During Thanksgiving:

• Pick up canned goods several weeks in advance-canned goods last for years at a time and there are often sales at grocers, go ahead and grab the canned goods while grocery shopping a few weeks before the week of Thanksgiving according to the dishes for which they are needed.
• Wait to buy canned cranberry sauce until the end of October, beginning of November-if buying canned goods early, Cranberry Sauce is one to wait on because the sales on the delicious fruit do not start until the holiday season, before sales it is one of the more expensive canned items, so it pays to wait.
• Get boxed items, including sugar and flour, throughout grocery shopping trips. If using boxed stuffing, go ahead and buy it and store it, it can be bought months in advance, much like canned goods, and saved for the holidays.
• Get Onion Straws for Green Bean Casseroles or any other casserole during the holidays, like cranberry sauce, it seems like the best sells for this item is during the season, so go ahead and stock up for next season as well-that at least eliminates one year of buying the yummy crisp onions the next time.
• Turkey and canned pumpkin, buy it during the season, lowest prices seem to occur at this time.
• Use paper plates, paper cups, paper napkins, and disposable silverware, especially for large gatherings. These items are very decorative now and can be found for as low as $1 for 12 paper plates, will reduce the amount of dishes to wash, and Michaels has a huge sale on a large variety of these, including unbreakable Thanksgiving wine glasses (probably want to safe those for years to come).
• Decorations, buy at the end of October, beginning of November, including tablecloths or placemats. All the fall items have giant sales on them at this point and it is a great opportunity to pick up decorative items, serving platters, and towels for dishes and for the bathroom. In fact, Kohl's and Target are just among the few with prices on Halloween and Thanksgiving items marked anywhere from 40%-80% below the original sales price, and some places are even offering an extra 10% or 20% off the already marked down sales price.

Planning the Menu:

Plan the menu at least two weeks in advance, try not to make a lot of changes when it comes to the main course and side dishes, but try to keep deserts to a maximum of three. If guests are bringing food, contact everyone 2 weeks and then again at 1 week before Thanksgiving to be sure everyone knows what to bring and what is on the menu. If cooking for a small group (4-6 people) keep the sides at maximum three (not including rolls, cranberry sauce, and gravy), and if cooking for a larger crowd, keep the sides to a maximum of five or six, but make a cut in the desert area if doing six sides. Also, do not be afraid or embarrassed to use store bought rolls (also on sale during the holidays), frozen pies (Edwards is mouth watering good) and gravy in a jar. There is no shame in saving time and money and washing of extra pans and mixing bowls.

• Determine number of guests
• Look at Serving sizes on planned recipes in order to know how much of it to make.
• Two items to cook more of than needed, Turkey and Stuffing-both go really fast at the Thanksgiving table, and during the weekend
• If feeding 4 people, a 12 pound Turkey should be fine, for 8-10, a 15-18 pound turkey, if feeding more than 10 people, instead of one large bird, grab 2 or 3 fifteen to eighteen ponders, or to make it easier, get turkey breasts which can be cooked side by side two at a time and for a shorter time period.
• If serving drinks, keep specialty drinks to two choices, make one a Sangria (very easy to make), or let guests BYOB, and be sure to have something for the non-drinkers.

Cooking the Thanksgiving Meal

• Prepare any items that need to be chilled the day before, including the cranberry sauce and also go ahead and make the deserts, the oven needs to be good to go when it comes to the turkey and side items on the big day.
• Get the turkey in asap on Thanksgiving morning, if using turkey breasts-the cook time is less-so enjoy some coffee, talk shows, some of the parade, and then start cooking (gotta love Thanksgiving made easier while still tasting good).
• While the bird cooks, make side items on the stove, go ahead and prepare the casseroles and dressing for the oven as well.
• Cook other items in the oven once the turkey is done, while turkey cools a bit.
• Heat rolls last, set timer to avoid burning.

No matter if one uses plastic and paper ware or the best China, cooking everything from scratch or the box, or using a pre-cooked bird or frozen, it is good to plan before hand and double check the day before to be sure no one is trying to find an open store or wondering through Walgreens hoping to find an item on Thanksgiving Day. Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Maple Pumpkin Monkey Bread

Pumpkin Maple Monkey Bread

Finished Monkey Bread

A sweet treat for dessert, brunch, breakfast, or a gathering, this monkey bread is perfect for the season of fall and there is a sweet way and a savory way to make this treat. The first involves pumpkin spice cream cheese and the second involves maple sausage. Both of these recipes were inspired by Sandra Lee's Fall 2015 magazine, and the first follows the same steps, with a few ingredient changes.

Pumpkin Maple Monkey Bread

Ingredients:

• 4 cans 7.5oz biscuit dough
• 8 oz. container pumpkin spice cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/4 cup Maple Syrup
• 3/4 stick butter
• 1 Tbsp. Cinnamon
• 1 Tbsp. Apple Cider
• 1/2 cup chopped Walnuts (optional)
• Cooking Spray

Directions:



pumpkin cream cheese mixture

Pumpkin Mix goes into center of biscuit dough

Folded Dough

1. Preheat Oven to 375 degree Fahrenheit.
2. Spray a Tube Pan (Bundt Cake Pan) or an 8X8 baking dish lightly with Cooking Spray.
3. If using Walnuts, sprinkle along the bottom of the pan or baking dish.
4. Mix the pumpkin spice cream cheese and 1 Tablespoon of Maple Syrup together in a small bowl.
5. Place a Teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each biscuit and stretch the dough around it, pinching the ends to seal.
6. Put the Balls of dough into the tube pan  around the bottom and on top of each other (if using a baking dish only use 2 tubes of biscuit dough).
7. Heat and stir the rest of the syrup, the butter, the Apple Cider, Cinnamon, and Sugar over Medium low heat until melted and mixed together. Stir often.
8. Pour the mixture over the dough balls and bake for 25-35 minutes.
9. Let cool for five minutes, then flip the pan onto a serving platter or plate and enjoy.

Maple Sausage Monkey Bread

Ingredients:

• 4 cans 7.5oz of Biscuit Dough
• 1 lb. Sausage
• 1/2 cup Maple Syrup
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 stick Butter
• 1 lb. Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Cooking Spray

Directions:

1. Follow directions 1 and 2 of the Pumpkin Maple Monkey Bread Recipe.
2. Cook sausage in a pan over medium heat, smashing it as it cooks, until brown. Drain and return to heat and turn the heat to low.
3. Add 1/4 cup of the maple syrup to the sausage, stir together, let it heat through for a minute, turn off heat and stir again.
4. Place a little over a teaspoon of the sausage in the center of the biscuits along with a bit of sharp cheddar cheese (don't worry if the cheese sticks out, it will be good). Wrap the edges around the sausage and cheese, pinch together to seal, and place into a tube pan.
5. Heat the Butter, Brown Sugar, and the rest of the Maple syrup in a small pan over medium low heat, stir and heat until everything is melted and combined.
6. Pour the syrup and sugar mix over the biscuit dough and bake 25-30 minutes.
7. Let cool for 5 minutes, turn over onto a serving plate and enjoy.

Both these recipes would be a great addition to a Thanksgiving meal or a Christmas Brunch, but most of all, they are delicious comfort food great for the season.

Pumpkin Pie Bars with Graham Cracker Crust

Pumpkin Pie Bars with Cream Cheese and Graham Cracker Crust

pumpkin pie bar with whipped cream

Pumpkin is the ingredient of the Fall and Holiday season. It seems to go into everything from coffee to lasagna, and the public loves every delicious sweet and savory sip or bite. One  of the most enjoyed desserts of the holidays happens to be pumpkin pie. Thanksgiving and Christmas just aren't the same without pumpkin pie, but sometimes it is nice to switch things up a bit and this pumpkin pie bar is the perfect substitute for the normal pie and for those who are not all that fond of the pie (yes, there are people who eat pumpkin but not in pie form), and the recipe includes ingredients already in the house and can be made for less than $10, even $5 (depending on where one shops and how many of the items are already at home).






Ingredients:

Crust:

Walnut Graham Cracker Crust

• 2 1/2 cups Graham crackers (broken up)
• 1/2 cup Walnuts
• 1/4-1/2 cup melted butter

Filling:

• 15 oz. can of pure pumpkin purée
• 12 oz. whipped cream cheese
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1/2 tablespoon nutmeg
• 2 eggs, beaten

Directions:

Crust:

Cream Cheese and Sugar Mixture

1. Place broken graham crackers into a food processor (a small, 3 cup, one works fine), pulse on high till finely chopped.
2. Add the walnuts, pulse on high till everything is finely chopped.
3. Pour the crust mix into a medium bowl, add the melted butter, and stir together until the crust mixture is moist.
4. Spray a 9x9 baking dish with baking spray and press the crust into the bottom of the pan.

The pumpkin mixture poured on top, going into the oven

Filling:

baked pumpkin pie bars

1. Preheat Oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the whipped cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, microwave on high for 30 seconds to a minute, just until warm enough to easily stir.
3. Add 1/4 cup of the sugar to the cream cheese, stir until well combined.
4. Pour half of the cream cheese and sugar mix onto the crust and spread it out.
5. Combine the remaining ingredients in a large mixing bowl, stir very well, and pour onto the cream cheese. Spread the top to even it out along the edges.
6. Bake for 1-1 1/2 hours, until a toothpick comes out clean from the middle or until set.
7. Let cool about 10 minutes before cutting.

The taste of this pumpkin pie bar is sweet and savory, thanks to the cream cheese and spices, and one will even taste a little hit of honey which really makes the pumpkin flavor pop! So, heat up some cider, tea, or coffee, and enjoy the taste of a favorite dessert made new. Happy Holidays!!!

Halloween Snacks for Kids

Halloween Snacks for Kids

Easy to make, kid friendly, snacks for the Halloween season. These are great for kids to help create. These treats are made out of apples, celery sticks, peanut butter (cheese can be substituted), pumpkin granola bars, and some semi-sweet morsels, and will have kids coming back for seconds throughout the Halloween season.

Creepy Crawlers

Using Celery Sticks and Peanut Butter and Pretzels, let the kids have some fun creating centipedes, bats, spiders, and maybe a made up creepy crawler. Raisins can be used as eyes, if desired.

Pumpkin Face Apples

Adults:

• Cut an apple into fours (cut each side off of the apple)
• Using a paring knife, cut out a pumpkin face on the flesh side, gently, without piercing all the way to the skin
• Let the kids place semi-sweet morsels into the mouth and eyes (can also use raisins)

Sweet and Salty Pumpkin Granola

Ingredients=1 serving:

• 1 Sun-Belt pumpkin Granola Bar
• 2-3 Tablespoons semi-sweet or butterscotch morsel
• 2 Tablespoons peanuts

Directions:

Let the children break up their granola bars into a bowl, mix in the remaining ingredients, and serve along side some cold or hot cider for an after school snack.

There are so many fun creative things to do with food during this time of year, and it is always fun to hand a child some food items just to see what they will come up with and it may even shock parents to see what their kids will eat when it is their creation. Happy Fall!!!

Apple Cider Quick Bread

Easy Apple Cider Quick Bread

Apple Cider and Pumpkin are not only for fall, these culinary pleasures are used for the entire holiday season in breads, cakes, drinks, and even main courses. One of the most popular uses for each is, quick bread and this Apple Cider Quick Bread uses ingredients easily found in the cabinets and will have everyone asking for more.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Butter, softened/at room temperature
• 1 cup Sugar
• 2 Eggs
• 1 cup Apple Cider
• 2 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (for sprinkling)
• 1 Tbsp. Cinnamon
• 1/2 Tbsp. Baking Soda
• 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
• 2-3 Large Green Apples, washed, peeled, and cut into thin slices
• Baking Spray or Butter Spray

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degree Fahrenheit.
2. Cream the butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl, add the eggs, mix well, set aside.
3. Sift the dry ingredients together in a medium bowl (if there is no sifter, use a fork to mix the ingredients).
4. Add half the dry ingredients to the sugar mixture, stir, and add half of the cider. Stir Again.
5. Add the rest of the dry ingredients and the cider and mix together.
6. Spray a bread pan lightly with butter spray and line 1/2 of the apple slices along the bottom, sprinkle with half of the brown sugar.
7. Pour the batter over the apple slices and smooth the top.
8. Place remaining slices on the top of the batter and sprinkle with sugar.
9. Cook for 60 to 75 minutes, until set. Spread some melted butter, thinly, over the top after 45 minutes of cooking and right after it is finished.

Fall Decorating using Mason Jars

Fall Decorating using Mason Jars

Mason jars can be used as storage or for decorating. With the ability to buy in bulk, utilizing mason jars for tables, mantles, counters, or as lanterns is easy and fun.

Fall Flowers in Mason Jars

• Place a bundle of flowers into Mason Jars (can be a variety of sizes)
• Tie a fall colored ribbon around the top of the jar
• Display the jars outside beside pumpkins or inside on tables or fireplace mantles

If desired, before placing the flowers into the jars, kids or adults can use sharpies and draw fall sayings or pictures on the jars. Also, change water out daily to reduce molding on the plant's stem and for a nice fresh look.

Fall Leaf Lights

• Place a piece of clear tape on the bottom of a bagged leaf from the craft store and gently slide the leaf into the jar
• Once the leaf is in place, use a plastic spoon or knife to press the tape to the inside of the jar and place another piece of tape at the top of the leaf
• Place a LED battery powered candle or a bunch of LED string lights (small-also available at Michael's) to place inside the jars
• Use the lights as a pathway to the house, along the mantle or throughout the home

Turn them into hanging lanterns using twine. There are several ways in which to tie the twine but here is an example:

1. Cut 40-42 inches of twine.
2. Wrap the twine around the top of the jar, leaving one end longer than the other-only leave about six inches on the smaller side and tie into a knot.
3. Wrap the longer side around again and tie in a knot.
4. With the remaining twine, go over the top of the jar to the other side and loop under/through the wrapped twine, tie into a knot (loop again if desired.
5. Hang the jars and use LED candles or lights inside.

Mason jar decorating is easy, Fun, and even the kids can get involved! Happy Fall!!

Hallmark's Autumn Premiere's

Hallmark's Autumn Premiere's

The time of year where Hallmark graces the television with seasonal movies is finally here! Instead of waiting for the Christmas Premiere's (beginning Oct. 31st), the countdown to the countdown begins with Autumn movies, plus a special "Good Witch" season 2, two hour event. To kick off the Autumn movie premiere is, Autumn Dreams, a story about a couple who marry young (despite their parents disapproval), get a divorce only to find out years later, according to something in the paperwork, they are still married, and each have to find a fix quick because both are getting married to other people. True to Hallmark form, the couple is forced to work as a couple to get the matter resolved, will sparks fly between the two or will they split for good?

The next new movie is, Harvest Moon. A young woman looses a fortune and tries to regain it by fixing a struggling pumpkin farm in the country, but discovers pumpkin is not only for jack-o-lanterns and pies, but can also be used as a beauty product. Along the way, she meets the handsome farm manager and love fills the air under the Harvest Moon.

The third movie premiere, October Kiss. A nanny is hired by a handsome over working executive who needs help with his kids close to Halloween. She ends up teaching the family there is more to life than work, school, and chores, and soon the handsome executive might find that he has fallen for a fun, adventurous woman. 

The fourth premiere, perhaps the most anticipated, The Good Witch Season 2, two hour special! The Good Witch movies and television show have become the hit of Hallmark and if there is one special before the Christmas movie event that is a must see, this one is it. No one knows what may take place in the charming and busy town of Middleton, but it will be a fall event to remember and one that needs not be missed.

Of all the years, this seems like one of the most anticipated in terms of Saturday night events and Premiere's going all the way to Christmas on The Hallmark Channel. So, have a get together, bring out the cider and pumpkin pie and cozy up with what will soon be fall favorites on Saturdays in October. Happy Fall!!!!

Fall Kid Crafts: Leaf Garland and Pumpkin Turkey

Leaf Garland and Pumpkin Turkey
Fall seems to bring out the craft masters in everyone, even children. This is one of the most magical times of the year leading up to one of the most favorite holidays, Christmas, and it is the time to let the craftiness shine. Using fake (or real) pumpkins, packages of loose colorful leaves, fall colored ribbons, fall colored clothes pins, twine, a marker, and tape, the indoors can be transformed into the colorful outdoors for children to enjoy all season long.

Leaf Garland

Materials:

• Fall Colored Twine or Ribbon
• Fall Colored Clothe pins (found at craft stores)
• Plastic or Metal Hooks or Large River Rocks (depending on where the garland is to be hanged)

Directions:

1. Determine where to hang the leaf garland, then cut the twine, leaving 6 to 8 inches extra on each end (a little less if using river rocks to hold on a mantle or shelf).
2. Tie the ends in a double knot on each hook and place leaves along the twine using the clothes pins.

Instead of leaves, a message on burlap triangles or squares or card stock can be made, or both can be used. This is a great idea for shelves around the house and in a child's room.

Pumpkin Turkey

This is a fun fall craft and can even be turned into a "turkey bank" (piggy bank). The best part, no glue or staples or anything sharp or sticky involved, except for clear scotch tape and child safe scissors. Even so, parents, this means, easy clean-up (SCORE!).

Materials:

• 1 Small or Medium plastic pumpkin for each child
• 1 Package of Fall Leaves (available at Michael's or other craft stores)
• 1 brown or black marker
• A roll of Scotch Tape, clear
• Scissors
• Some Fall Colored Ribbon (optional)

Directions:

1. Determine which end of the pumpkin sits best on a surface.
2. Hold the pumpkin upside down while the kids use tape to place the leaves on it in layers-tape along the bottom and sides of leaves (it really does not take too much tape).
3. Set pumpkin on a flat surface, draw eyes.
4. Tape fall colored ribbon around the middle of the pumpkin and display.

Both of these crafts are well under $10 a child, and the leaf garland is under $5 a child. They are kid friendly fall activities that kids can most definitely do and be proud of as well as enjoy. Happy Fall!

Fall Sign Craft

Fall Sign

This is a great fall craft for children, young and old. Creating a fall sign, thanks to help from local craft stores, is fun and kids will love having their sign placed on a door, in the hall, or anywhere on the wall. All that is needed is some paint, letter stencils, paint brushes, a plain wooden sign with string attached (if string is not attached , just drill two holes and cut a long piece of twine, loop through the front and tie a knot behind each hole), and fall stickers.

Materials:

• 1 Wooden Sign with string attached for each person
• Fall Colored Craft Paints
• Letter Stencil
• Paint Brushes
• Fall Stickers

(all items available at craft stores)

Directions:

1. Paint the sign Orange or Yellow and let dry (if using craft paint, probably an hour or two).
2. Decide what to write on the sign and where to put it. Use a sponge brush or a small brush and the stencils to paint the letters, use a darker color than the background.
3. Let dry.
4. Place autumn leaf stickers on the corners and 3-D stickers throughout the sign.
5. Hang the sign and add some fall to the home.

If desired, use real leaves that have been pressed and placed between clear paper and mod podge. Place a thin layer of mod podge on one side, place on the sign, let dry a while, and then lightly coat the top side with mod podge and let dry.

There are so many ways to create a sign for fall, all of which will be enjoyable and put all involved in the mood for the season.

Pumpkin Pie Banana Pudding, Parfait, and Treats

Pumpkin Pie Banana Pudding, Parfait, and Treats

Pumpkin everything is here! It is one of the best times of the year, when comfort foods begin to heat up the kitchen and sweet treats at the end, or beginning, of the meal is a must. Thanks to the pumpkin craze, many pumpkin treats can simply be bought and enjoyed by themselves, but pair some of these new pumpkin goodies with old favorites such as Banana Pudding and Parfaits is easy and delightful.

Pumpkin Pie Pudding

Ingredients:

• 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding (3.4 oz.)
• 4-5 cups of milk (depends on how think one likes the pudding)
• 2 bags of Pepperidge Farm Pumpkin Spice flavored Milano Cookies
• 8-10 ripe bananas, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 8 oz. tub of cool whip
• Nutmeg for sprinkling

Directions:

1. Prepare the two pudding mixes as directed on the boxes. Once the mix is thick, add the pumpkin pie spice and stir well. Set aside.
2. Using a large bowl, layer the cookies, bananas and pudding mix. Cover the bottom of the bowl with cookies, place bananas on top, then spread pudding, do the same layering again (usually twice is enough but sometimes a third layer can be added).
3. Spread cool whip on top, sprinkle with nutmeg and chill in the fridge for 4 hours before serving.

This is a great way to add a touch of fall to an American classic, by making 2 or 3 small changes and utilizing the special products only available during the fall and Christmas seasons.

Pumpkin Yogurt Parfait

This parfait is perfect for breakfast or a snack and uses Sunbelt's pumpkin spice bars and the new Chobani Greek yogurt pumpkin spice flavored (which can be substituted with pumpkin spice ice cream if desired.

Ingredients (serving size: 1 parfait):

• 1 Pumpkin flavored Greek yogurt
• 2 Sunbelt Pumpkin Spice bars, crumbled
• 1/4 cup vanilla or chocolate flavored yogurt
• Pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for sprinkling

Directions:

Place some crumbled pieces of the bar in the bottom of a small glass or parfait glass. Top with half the pumpkin spice yogurt, then with more crumbled pumpkin bar, then 1/4 of vanilla yogurt, more crumbled bar, place the remaining pumpkin spice yogurt on top, and sprinkle with pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.

Both of these make good treats to serve at a Halloween, Harvest, or Thanksgiving gathering, especially popular with children.

Pumpkin Treat Suggestions:

Here are a few more ideas on how to take advantage of these treats while they are out:

• Line a plain store bought frosted cake with pumpkin spice cookies and write Happy Harvest on top using Pecan Pie M&M's
• Use the sunbelt pumpkin spice bars crumbled into Corn Flake or Special K cereals (even Raisin Brand) to add some fall flavor to the morning
• Make parfaits with vanilla and pumpkin spice ice cream and Milano Pumpkin Spice cookies crumbled, top with whip cream and pumpkin flavored seasonal treats
• Bake a favorite sugar cookie recipe adding M&Ms to the top or finely crush up the pumpkin spice Milano cookies and mix them into the recipe

Happy Fall!!!

 

Fall Decorating 2015

Fall Decorating 2015: Keeping it Simple

When it comes to decorating the home for Fall and Christmas, keeping it simple is not easy to do. It is so much fun to go overboard, buying little items for each room, pumpkins for every corner of the floor, and miscellaneous fall items for bookcases and fireplaces and maybe even the kitchen counter. It's fun until time to pack up or time to clean around all the extra items, but it can also look cluttered. Instead of over doing it, these tips will help give the house a cozy fall look, without the extra expenses and clutter.


Fall Decorating: Pumpkins

Pumpkins are probably top on the list when it comes to fall decorating, some simple tips include:

• Clay flower pots, painted or not painted, with a small tree-add small pumpkins to the pot placed around the tree, tie a piece of autumn colored twine around the pot.
• Place a variety of different sized pumpkins on one side of the steps or porch. Place a large or medium pot of mums on the last step with larger pumpkins with fall ribbons tied around them on the porch.
• Spray paint pumpkins with Chalk Board Spray (wash and dry before hand-and to preserve the pumpkin, wipe a thin coat of "paste wax" over it, let dry), place outside or inside and write messages such as "Welcome," "Happy Fall," or "Falling for Fall."
• Paint pumpkins and then paint polka dots on them, use as table decorations or on the fireplace mantle or even on counters.

All of these can be done with real or fake pumpkins, if considering placing a flower pot inside a pumpkins, a big suggestion is use the fake one, but be sure to cut two or three small hole in the bottom for the water to drain out if needed.

Fall Decorating: Table and Dining Room

• Flowers in a large pot, vase, or decorative pitcher with fake leaves and pumpkins added in make a lovely center piece and is quick, simple, and easy to take care of.
• Fake leaf garland-take advantage of the sales on these at Michael's and use them to add color to any room, doorway, or even ceiling in the house. A favorite is using them almost like streamers, especially for an autumn get together.
• Place a decorative pumpkin with an empty and cleaned out wine bottle in the center of the table, place some twigs of leaves (fake or real in the wine bottle)

Fall Decorating: Fireplace and Living Room

• Place a pumpkin in the center of the coffee table with an autumn magazine beside it
• Place two candles, one tall one short pillar, on a fall colored charger ($1.99 at Michael's), place a small pumpkin beside the unlit candles, along with some fake bagged leaves under the pumpkin
• String leaf garland over the windows and fireplace mantle, place a row of different sized and colored pumpkins along the mantle or just a few in the center of the mantle
• Place a long rectangular basket in the center of the mantle, add fall potpourri and place a few fake leaves around the sides of the basket
• Center a large or small autumn flower arrangement on the mantle, add family pictures from autumns past or present on both sides, as many as desired

All of these tip are super easy, inexpensive, and bring the warmth of the season to and into the home. Enjoy this glorious part of the year, leading up to the holidays, and make autumn decorating enjoyable. Happy Fall!

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

Tis the season to eat pumpkin and this pumpkin cupcake recipe is as "semi-homemade" as it gets. These will be a hit at any fall gathering, birthday party, or school event, and there is no batter or icing making from scratch, making this a go to desert recipe for any parent. The biggest plus, people will think hours of prep work was spent on these cupcakes, when in truth, there was some help from Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines.

Ingredients:

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 3/4 cup canned pumpkin pie mix
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 4 eggs
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar (this adds a nice extra kick)
• 24 cupcake liners (Craft stores usually offer good deals on holiday liners and a better selection than the local market)

For the Icing:

• 1 1/2 containers whipped or Butter cream, white, or Vanilla Frosting
• 2 1/2 Tablespoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 24 Chocolate Pumpkins (such as Russell Stover Pumpkin Pie, Snickers or Reese Pumpkin shapes, or even Pumpkin spice M&M's) for topping

Directions:

1. Spray 24 cupcake pan very lightly with baking spray (this can be skipped, this is just a precaution and usually makes it easier to get the liner out)
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Place liners in the cupcake pan.
4. Mix the cake mix, pumpkin pie mix, water, vegetable oil and eggs in a large bowl, with a standing mixer, hand mixer, or whisk (helps get the lumps out). For 2 minutes on medium speed.
5. Using a Ladle, place about half a ladle into the cupcake liners until each is full and all are evenly filled.
6. Sprinkle the brown sugar on top of the cupcakes and bake 19-25 minutes.
7. Let cool completely (2 hours is usually good, 3 might be better).

Frosting:

1. Mix the frosting and pumpkin pie spice by hand in a large bowl.
2. Using a spatula or butter knife or even bagging the icing, spread a generous amount onto each cupcake.
3. Place chocolate candy on top and prepare to serve.

Instead of mixing the pie spice in with the frosting, it could be sprinkled on top of the cupcakes. Also, if using M&M's. Hershey Kisses, or Reese, those could be baked into the cupcake, giving it an extra sweet surprise when bitten into. Happy Fall Ya'll!!

Halloween Candy

Halloween Candy!

Yesterday, I thought, does Dunkin Donuts have their Pumpkin Spice Coffee yet? So, did some research and found out, yes, they do. That's right, the item is not on the main menu but ask and ye shall receive. That's right people, the season is so close, stores are already putting out Halloween candy and in some cases, Christmas items.

Magazine in store

There is no better time of year than the holidays. Nothing beats the crisp air, the magic of fall, mysteries of Halloween, and kicking off the Christmas season with countdown's to Christmas and a ginormous Thanksgiving meal. The best part, being able to walk into stores and find favorite foods, pumpkin everything, fall colors, and warm clothes, and in some cases (especially with the help of coupons) holiday items at a decent price.

This time of year is the decorating season, which means spending and it can become tough not to be tempted by all the seasonal items. For example, while in Kohl's (love that store), there were several autumn dishes and serving dishes that I just wanted, but they were not on sale at all, yet. However, several tablecloths, some Halloween items, dish towels, and floor mats were. Unfortunately, the sale on the Autumn home goods, decorative items, were not so great either. However, Fall has not officially begun and by Fall these goodies will be half+ off, and if looking for a bargain, try out Big Lots, Wal-Mart, Target, or even look online.

Big Lots had Fall outside mats for $4! Much of their decorations were very fairly priced, $12 and under and they had a good amount of Thanksgiving products. Target has some good prices, but one has to look for them.

Fall Cereals in Ingles

Target seems to be good at hiding some of their sales in with the actual price items. It is a bit annoying, but look for the red and white sticker with a lower price than the rest of the surrounding objects. Also, check the end of the isles, that is where most of the bigger sales end up. Also, Kohl's and Target offer much more when it comes to coupons and savings. There is usually a promo every week and, despite what some sales clerks say, multiple coupons can be used and do work in many cases. Every once in a while, no, but most of the time it works.

Wal-Mart is always a safety net when it comes to low prices, but be careful, it is easy to walk out with $100 worth of products and buyers remorse. However, got to admit, when it comes to Halloween and Christmas candy, Wal-Mart is my go to destination. I do not know if it is the isle of candy stacked high on the shelves or the fact that they seem to sell certain candies that are not available at other retailers or the fact the prices for what is being bought is actually fair. Whatever it is, when it comes to certain products such as fake pumpkins (yea, that hurt to write a little), leaf garland-sometimes-seasonal candle holders and table accents, and candy, this is my store to find savings (especially in October).

Fall items in Kohls

Other stores to check out, Crafty ones. Michaels, surprisingly, has good sales because everyone who crafts is usually ahead of the season so by mid September Fall items are as high as 80% off and by mid-October, Halloween items are right there with them and even some of the Christmas items go on sale. Baskets, Fake Pumpkins, and Garland are three things to look for sales in, and the sales are always awesome. Also, look for their ads and coupons online and in-store.

Well, the season is here-the craziness is about to begin and holiday madness is coming, but first, lets enjoy the beauty and fun of fall, raise a glass of coffee, eat some cake, and relax. Happy Fall!!!

Autumn Light

Autumn Light

Autumn is the time of year to enjoy hues of orange, yellow, red, and brown, along with a nice cup of cider or seasonal coffee, not just outdoors but indoors as well. Turning the house into an autumn wonderland and creating a warm glow is simple. The best part, it can be done without having to buy a bunch of decorations. Using some ribbons, colorful place mats, tealights, votives, and other items, a magical autumn feel can be brought into the home.

Autumn Lamps:

• Decorative fall ribbon, wired edged ribbon, or different colored burlap long enough to wrap around the lamp shade
• Velcro Fasteners (optional)
• Plan colored lamp shade, white or off white
• Autumn colored placemat or Cloth Napkin (optional)
• A Decorative Autumn item (pumpkin, plaque with a saying, or a picture)

Directions:

1. Wrap the ribbon around the center of the lamp to determine length, cut and place Velcro fasteners on the ends (depending on the size, may need two fasteners on each end).
2. Wrap the ribbon around the lamp and fasten the Velcro.
3. Place the lamp on a fall colored placemat beside a decorative fall item.

If desired, layer the ribbons starting from the bottom. Leave about 1/4 of an inch overlap at the bottom and just layer up to the top.

Also, instead of using Velcro, use one ribbon around the center and tie into a bow. This is an easy way to add some Autumn to your home without spending a bunch of money. Use what is around the house, leftover from years past, and placemats can be found on sell at almost any retailer for less than $3 (found some at Target under $1.50). Something so simple can add so much character to a room and will definitely add some warmth along with an Autumn glow.

Happy Fall!!!

Fall Treats

Fall Treats

Fall means shelves upon shelves of pumpkin everything!! It also means pies, caramel apples, caramel, and tasty treats and savory dinners galore. As everyone knows, most companies have taken advantage of this season, rather successfully. M&M's and Hershey's have their candy corn flavors, Hershey Kisses have pumpkin and candy corn, Russell Stover has several different candy bars including pecan pie, and even cereals and items in the frozen food section transform into pumpkin or apple something. Well, this year..... get ready for 17 new treats, including pecan pie M&M's!!! (recipes to come after these hit shelves). Even Beef Jerky and lie Diamond Almonds are transforming there goods into delicious fall flavor (no, not pumpkin flavored jerky).

Many of the fall items will be out by the end of August and throughout the season, some through Christmas. Also, be on the lookout for the Pumpkin Spice coffees and, of course, the lattes! So, enjoy, stock up and Happy Fall!!!

Fall Camping

Fall Camping

Camping in the Fall can be a great way to enjoy some family time around a campfire while roasting marshmallows, telling stories, or just sitting back and listening to the sounds of the outdoors. Fall camping is especially nice due to moderate temperatures during the day and often at night (depending on location), not to mention that not much can beat waking up to a world of colorful leaves. The best part about camping during this time, it does not take much prep work, does not need to be made complicated, is warm enough for short sleeves at points, but cool enough for a jacket and pajamas and night, and is a great idea for a quick weekend adventure.





Tips For Fall Camping

• Take warm weather and cold weather clothes, be prepared for either
• Keep food simple-take hand food, sandwich supplies, plenty of water, a small grill if planning on fishing, tin foil and vegetables and oil or butter for making "poor boy" aka Hobo packet meals, nuts and trail mix, cooler with plenty of ice (Reminder: keep all food sealed and stored)
• Pillows and Sleeping Backs a must, extra blankets and throws just in case
• Tent and a tarp to place under the tent (tarp can be optional)
• Firewood-never leave home on a camping trip without it
• Matches
• Flashlights, Lanterns
• Foldable chairs
• Books, Games, Footballs, Fishing Polls
• Insect repellent
• An Emergency kit
• Just a reminder: always be sure any fire is completely out

Depending on the campsite or where the camping is taking place, plan on relaxing as well as going on an outdoor adventure. Try to find a spot with hiking trails, maybe a creek or lake, and maybe even a town nearby just to stop by on the way in or out of the campsite.

What to Do on a Fall Camping Trip

1. Go for a walk or hike and just enjoy the crisp air and the colorful scenery
2. Collect leaves. Take a large Ziploc bag and collect leaves for pressing into a leaf book or using for fall crafts.
3. Picnic. Go for a walk thru woods and find a spot to picnic and play Frisbee or football.
4. Go Apple Picking or find a pumpkin at a nearby farm.
5. Carve Pumpkins while camping
6. Plan on telling Ghost Stories (for those old enough to handle it)
7. Plan on camping during a Fall harvest festival occurring in a nearby town and enjoy a day at the festival and an evening by the fire.

Dupont State Forest

Where to Camp in the Fall

Being southern, this is kind of a personal preference, the southeast, especially north Georgia, upstate S.C., or Western N.C. Of course, the Blue Ridge or the Smokey Mountains are awesome areas to camp during this time and there are many events throughout these areas in the fall, from pumpkin patches and corn mazes, to fairs and festivals. Helen, Georgia, always has Oktoberfest and one of the kick offs to the fall season (kind of pre-fall) is the Apple Festival in Hendersonville, N.C.

Of course, there are many other areas throughout the country to enjoy some fall beauty, or at least fall feel. For those living in CA, Big Sur has an abundance of campgrounds and offers some amazing sky views and the harvest moon is huge, and cities such as Monterey, have fall events for families.

Another good area to camp at in fall, the Adirondacks. When camping in fall, it may be best to go early in the season because chances are by late October, it will be very cold and possibly snowy (also true for the Smokey Mountains and also some of the Blue Ridge in N.C. and V.A.).  There is plenty of apple picking, pumpkin patching, and corn-mazing to be found, but a really cool event to witness is the Balloon Festival. The festival features live music, craft and furniture fairs, activities for families and kids, lots of food, and hot air balloons.

Bridge in Big Sur

Some other areas recommended, the eastern coast. Yes, from Maine (even though it is chilly) to Savannah, GA. If looking to venture out and explore some history or go on a ghost tour, check out campsites near Charleston, South Carolina, Williamsburg, VA, or Savannah, GA. About an hour, maybe a little more, from Charleston is Lake Marion, and it is a great area in which to camp and explore. One of the best reasons to go during the fall to places such as Georgia, South Carolina, Louisiana and some of the other southern states, it is still pretty warm during the day, but cool enough at night to enjoy a campfire, the sound of a football game on a portable weather radio, and get a nice nights sleep.

No matter where the campsite is, check out local events, when the fall foliage is supposed to peak, what the weather is usually like or will be like, and be prepared to check in to a cabin or hotel if the weather is too cold or too rainy (especially for those who have kids, it is good to be close enough to a town or city if needed). Even so, just remember that camping in the fall is all about experiencing the outdoors during one of the most colorful times of the year, so go on a kayak or rafting adventure or a hike or just hang at the site talking, and just relax and thank God for the beautiful season of Autumn!

Recommended Fall Camping List:

These are a few, personal recommendations, but there are many great locations around the U.S. Talk to friends, family, and do some research to be certain.

Kinkade Village, Gatlinburg, TN

1. Cascade Lake Recreation and Campground-very family friendly-hiking trails, kayaking, fishing-located: DuPont State Forest
2. Black Forest Family Camping Resort-south of Brevard, NC
3. KOA-Anderson, S.C.-located near Lake Hartwell, very clean, cozy, great staff, and the nearby town of Pendleton has an absolutely awesome bakery-if planning on a visit to a Clemson game, check out this KOA.
4. KOA-Charleston-located on a plantation, as a guest of the campground, take a hayride and get a tour of the grounds.
5. Smith Mt. Lake State Park-nice area, on a lake, beautiful VA mountains, cruises and pontoon tours, in Huddleston, VA
6. Camp LeConte-yes, it is an experience and this place is beyond awesome and located in Gatlinburg, TN-great place to visit in the fall and at Christmas. From camp and RV sites to tree houses, a very unique experience.
7. Skidaway Island-Savannah, GA-trails, tours and family events-great family camping.