Dear Friend | November Book Club

“Dear Friend: Daily Love Notes for Contemplation, Connection, and Clarity” is a lovely book by Michelle Maros, with a forward by her mother and podcasting partner, Barb Schmidt.

In Dear Friend, Michelle writes to you with the warmth and wisdom of a trusted friend, offering daily, bite-sized, loving notes that encourage connection, resilience, and true self-care.

This book will offer you a daily reprieve when you feel burned out, beaten down, or overwhelmed by the strains and stresses of modern life.

Michelle is the founder of “Peaceful Mind Peaceful Life,”, a nonprofit committed to enhancing mental health and fostering inner peace globally, and cohost of the widely loved podcast, “Life Happens with Barb & Michelle.”

The heart of Dear Friend began in the quiet mornings Michelle shared with Barb. Every day, they would sit together, reading affirmations or passages from Barb’s beloved books.

These small rituals—simple but powerful—set the tone for each day, grounding them in gratitude, hope, and love. Over time, these moments became a cornerstone of Michelle’s life, showing her the deep, transformative power of starting each day with intention, kindness, and a connection to what truly matters.

Dear Friend is an invitation for readers to feel the same support and connection Michelle found in those quiet moments, as they navigate their own paths with love and purpose; with 365 profound, heartfelt reflections offering inspiration as you navigate the ebbs and flows of life.

Here, you'll find encouragement to reconnect with your foundation and rebuild your strength from within. Because when you cultivate a deep connection from within yourself, you are equipped to manage all that comes your way.

It’s an absolutely beautiful book, with a gorgeous hard cover, a unique size, and a heft to it I appreciate. I’m going to be ordering multiple copies to give away for Christmas, and will keep a few on hand for birthdays, Mother’s Day, other special occasions - and of course one for myself! I suggest you do the same.

ORDER: Dear Friend

Does It Work???

For those who know us, you know my husband Paul cares about “function”.

Does something work?

A ten penny nail pounded in the wall next to the door; perfect key holder. Wading boots for fishing hanging on the living room wall; easy to get to if the fish are biting. He has never purchased or hung a piece of original art work in his 72 years of living…

And when I create my works of art? His usual observation is “cute.”

Rich, layered colors, deep textures, whimsical style, repeating themes… These nuances are lost on him but my soul craves creativity. I’m not so concerned about whether or not something works well, as I am does it look good?!? Does it please the eye? Does it touch the soul? I want BEAUTY! I want layers of beauty!

However, he was pleased with the new circular gathering space I designed, as it’s low maintenance and functional. I planned ahead and planted in the spring, so the landscaping is already established (“instant gratification” for him.) The level surface makes it easy for him to navigate (he’s lost some mobility), and the benches are the perfect height. In other words, it works.

Today we both got to enjoy the things we love at our ranch.

Christmas Jars Cookbook | October Book Club

The book “Christmas Jars” by Jason F. Wright, is an all-time favorite of mine! If you’ve not read it… A young journalist named Hope starts digging around to discover the truth about a local tradition of anonymously gifting money-filled jars to people in need during the holidays. When she learns who the family is that started it all, she’s faced with the dilemma of publishing their names or burying the story. A beautifully written book about faith, family, and the power of giving, it started a national phenomenon that has touched the lives of millions of people.  If you don’t have a copy, get one!

And now, Jason and his wife, Kodi Wright, are giving us a new gift of warmth and kindness this holiday season—one jar, one recipe, one story at a time, with the “Christmas Jars Cookbook”.

Inspired by the heartwarming tradition of Christmas Jars, Jason and Kodi have created a unique cookbook that celebrates the joy of giving through delicious homemade recipes.

But it includes more than just food—it's also filled with real-life stories from people who have given or received cash-filled Christmas Jars, fun and creative craft ideas, and the sharing of other much-loved holiday traditions that you might be inspired to adopt.

With humorous titles like Rudolph's Maple Carrot Cupcakes, Kason's Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip, and Christmas Movie Caramel Corn, the recipes are designed to be lovingly prepared and given away to friends, family, and neighbors, much like the tradition behind the movement.

Whether it's a jar of Sift and Gift Hot Chocolate mix, a batch of Ginger Cream Cookies, or a heartfelt craft like Hope's Mini Decorative Wreath, the ideas will help you spread love and holiday spirit.

Perfect for the giving season, the Christmas Jars Cookbook reminds us that the best gifts come from the heart—and sometimes, from the kitchen. Get yourself a copy, and pick up a few more for gift giving!

Christmas Jars Cookbook
(Available on October 14, Pre-Order Now!)

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree | Book Release

Back in 1958, sock hops were the rage, aluminum Christmas trees were the future, and 13-year-old singer Brenda Lee was recording the soon-to-be-classic "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree."

Now we have a delightful gift book—perfect for stockings, coffee tables, or under the tree—celebrating the song’s record-breaking revived popularity, with ideas for holiday parties, innovative decorations, cozy meals, and more.

Get the most out of your Yuletide celebrations and let the Christmas spirit ring with this full-color festive handbook to all things holiday! You’ll rock around your own Christmas tree this season with the beloved, nostalgic #1 chart-topping song as your guide to a host of holiday fun, from recipes and crafts to party games, decor ideas, and more!

At the Christmas party hop or hanging the mistletoe where you can see, you will get a sentimental feeling when you:

• Choose from over 30 recipes for food and cocktails such as pull-apart pastry puffs, Christmas morning casserole, ornament and gingerbread cookies, and a holly jolly espresso martini

• Welcome others into the celebration with fun games, party ideas, and a soundtrack for all your Christmas gatherings

• Relive your favorite Christmas memories as you dip into nostalgia and learn the fascinating history behind familiar traditions, such as hanging mistletoe, watching Christmas movies, or decorating cookies

• Make your home merry and bright with creative ways to decorate your door, set your table, and wrap your gifts

• Enjoy insights and stories from the song’s origins and legacy of singer Brenda Lee and songwriter Johnny Marks

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree gives you all the feels, fun, and festivities you love about the season. It’s an ideal gift for a family member or friend who goes all-out for the Christmas season and for yourself, because maybe YOU are that person!

Rock on in the new old-fashioned way!
Purchase Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree

Truly | a book by Lionel Richie

September 30

TRULY, a no-holds-barred memoir from the legendary Grammy, Oscar, and Golden Globe–winning superstar, Lionel Richie, is now available for purchase!

Beloved by audiences around the globe, Richie’s extraordinary journey has kept him at the top of his game for decades. He stands alone as a world-class showman, recording artist, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, philanthropist—and now, television icon, having just completed his eighth season as a celebrated judge on American Idol.

Richie has continually defied conventional odds—with an unstoppable, crossover, multi-genre mass appeal as timeless as it is timely. His vast catalog includes anthem hits from his years as a member of The Commodores and from his enduring solo career, as well as the record-breaking charity collaboration (co-written with Michael Jackson) “We Are the World,” one of the best selling singles of all time that’s raised millions for famine relief in Africa. He also has the remarkable distinction of having written No. 1 songs every year for 11 consecutive years, and he’s one of only two songwriters in pop history to claim solo credit (music and lyrics) for the most No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hits.  

​In this intimate, deeply candid memoir, Lionel seeks to inspire all who doubt themselves or feel their dreams don’t matter by chronicling lessons learned in the course of his most unlikely of success stories—from a painfully shy, “tragically” late bloomer grappling with ADHD to his dramatic transformation into a world-class entertainer and composer of love songs that have played like the soundtrack of our lives.  

Richie’s joyful message of encouragement is needed now more than ever. “I travel the world, and all people really want to hear is, ‘I love you,’” Richie says about what connects us most. “‘I love you’ is forever. And the day we realize we come as different tribes, but we all represent the global family of mankind… the day that happens, we will clearly be united, together, as one.”

Get your copy wherever books are sold. Get one - or a dozen - to give as gifts!
Order link: TRULY

Cherry Tomato Confit | Late Summer Delight!

First off, I had no idea what confit was, or how to pronounce it. I’d seen “Duck Confit” on menus but had no inclination to try it. But a friend served up this little side at a baby shower, and I was surprised when she told me it was Cherry Tomato Confit. Um, what???

Apparently confit (pronounced cone-fee) isn’t a someTHING, but a someHOW. It’s a French term that means “to cook slowly in fat”. I still don’t have a clue what that means for our fine feathered friends, but thankfully I now know what it means for the abundance of cherry tomatoes I have in the garden!

By roasting tomatoes in extra virgin olive oil, with the addition of garlic, salt, pepper and herbs, at 250 degrees for an hour or more, what you get is a savory topping that smells like Nona’s kitchen and tastes like a Tuscan summer.

You can use it as a topping for crostini or crackers, like my friend did, as a pairing with hummus and other dips, toss it with pasta for a main dish, or spoon some over your protein, be it chicken or beef.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of cherry tomatoes +/-

• 1 - 1 1/2 cups of extra virgin olive oil +/-

• 1 head of garlic, sliced in half horizontally

• Zest of one lemon

• Salt and Pepper, to taste

• Herbs of choice, to taste. (oregano, sage, basil and rosemary were in the garden - you can use dried herbs)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees F

2. Place tomatoes in single layer in shallow baking dish, add enough olive oil so the tomatoes are at least half-way covered.

3. Remove loose skin from garlic halves, then place, cut side up, in between tomatoes.

4. Add lemon zest, salt, pepper, and herbs.

5. Bake for one to two hours (depends on how large the tomatoes are), until tomatoes and garlic have softened. Do not cook so long that tomatoes turn to mush, they should still hold their shape.

6. Remove from oven.

7. When cool enough to handle, the garlic should slide right out of the husk. Recombine with tomatoes and serve warm or place in clean jars with enough of the oil to cover all tomatoes and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

8. Don’t even think of discarding the oil if there is some remaining once you’ve transfered to storage container. It’s so flavor packed! Use it in salads or to saute’ up some garden veggies!

Enjoy! (Or rather, bon appetit!. Or maybe even, "a tavola")

30 Minute Meals with Six Sisters Stuff | September Book Club

As summer winds down, school starts, and our lives take on a more steady rhythm and routine, “What’s for dinner?” becomes an all too familiar refrain. A sandwich or hot dog before heading to baseball practice isn’t going to do the trick anymore…

"30 Minute Meals" by Six Sisters' Stuff to the rescue.

It features over 100 family-friendly recipes like Chicken Street Tacos, Instant Pot Butter Chicken, and Air Fryer French Bread Pizza. All of which can be put together and ready to eat in about 30 minutes. (Hallelujah!)

No fancy ingredients that require shopping in specialty markets and no complicated instructions that need a a culinary arts degree to decipher.

Everything is easy-peasy, lemon-squeezy - and the results are delicious, home-cooked meals on the table without a spending an eternity in the kitchen!

Could there be anything sweeter than that?

Well, yes.

This sanity-saver doesn’t skip appetizers, sides, or desserts! Everything’s here to make your meal prep easier, dinners tastier, and more time to eat together as as family then get on with your evening.

With 5 kids in the house now, I’m going to be leaning heavily on this new cookbook as the school year gets under way. I really appreciate how simply things come together—so simply in fact, I can get the kids involved in the process. I’ve noticed how much more willing they are to try a new dish if they’ve had a hand in making it. Win, win!

Get your hands on your own copy and make your life easier!
(Would also make a great gift for anyone setting up an apartment or home or new parents!)

ORDER: "30 Minute Meals" by Six Sisters' Stuff

Laura Geller Beauty's "Blush Week"

There’s no doubt about it, life is better with Laura Geller Beauty! Her products are formulated for, ahem, “mature” skin, like mine! But that doesn’t stop my daughters from raiding my make-up bag every chance they get! It’s that yummy.

They’re so obvious with their pilfering of my supplies, it should make them blush - but they know I love to share and because Laura Geller’s makeup is so reasonably priced, I can, and do, order more. After all, they’re always coming up with new shades and kits I can’t resist.

Speaking of things that bring a flush to the cheeks, how ‘bout their upcoming “Blush Week”?!

August 18 - 24, all blushes are 60% OFF!
- - no code needed - -

With these options the only problem you’ll have is deciding which ones you want to try. (But hey, with a discount like this, maybe that’s not such a problem after all...)

• Laura Geller Beauty’s Baked Blush-n-Brighten Marbleized Blush is created by Italian artisans and baked on terracotta tiles for 24 hours, the iconic marbleized powder delivers fresh color on all skin tones. Infused with antioxidants Centella Asiatica and White Tea Extracts, the famous formula protects your skin with anti-inflammatory properties.

• Laura Geller Beauty’s Serum Blush Cheek Tint is infused with Hyaluronic Acid and Polysaccharide to keep skin hydrated and protect against moisture loss for youthful-looking, supple cheeks. The innovative serum texture dabs on smoothly without messing up makeup underneath. Go for a natural flushed finish or build it up for a more pigmented look. (Includes one replacement sponge applicator.)

• Laura Geller Beauty’s Italian Marble Blush Stick is a long-lasting creamy stick that glides on effortlessly and gives a natural flush of just-pinched color. The marbleized formula creates dimension for fuller, lifted-looking cheeks. Sodium Hyaluronate replenishes skin and Vitamin E helps restore skin cells. Get a healthy dose of color at home or on the go!

My shopping cart is going to be so full! This Geller Gal will be getting a little something for myself as well as building a stockpile of replacements for my sticky-fingered offspring. Don’t miss out on your chance to do the same!

Visit LauraGeller.com!

Summer Yummer | Lemon Tea Cakes

It’s full-on hot out. So hot, it’s difficult to think about food unless it's watermelon, or something equally cool… like these little treats. Yes, yes, you’ll have to turn your oven on, but do it in the early morning before the house really heats up, or in the evening when it’s cooled down a bit, then enjoy their lemony sweetness any other time during the day.

Lemon Tea Cakes, Mmmmmm…

Tea cakes were a staple at every baby or wedding shower I attended up until the early aughts when they seemed to have been forgotten by the food bloggers and recipe gurus that jostled for space on the internet. But they still reign supreme in my kitchen for a special event - or in this case, a sweet treat that doesn’t leave you feeling bogged down and heavier than you already do in the sweltering heat.

This recipe makes a very large batch, of somewhat small cookies. They practically melt in your mouth, yet have a satisfying chewiness that’s perfectly delectable. The sharp, refreshing tang of the lemon is what makes them perfect for the summer months. With a cup of hot tea in the morning, or a tall glass of iced tea in the afternoon. Suprise your guests and delight your family with a platefull!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter

• 2 cups sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla

• 2 eggs

• 2 tbsp lemon zest (about 1 medium lemon)

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 3 cups flour

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/4 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 cup powdered sugar +/-

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In small bowl, combine sugar and lemon zest, pinching and mixing to coat sugar in lemon oils. Transfer to larger mixing bowl then,

3. Cream butter and sugar/lemon zest in a large mixing bowl. Beat in vanilla, egg, and lemon juice.

4. Now combine flour, baking powder, soda, and salt in a small bowl and mix thoroughly. Add to creamed butter and sugar mixture and mix until well combined.

5. Roll dough by teaspoonfulls into 1" balls, then roll in powdered sugar. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.

6. Bake at 350 degrees for 9 – 11 minutes until till set and crackly. You don’t want bottoms to brown. Remove from oven and let sit for a couple of minute, then transfer to cooling racks to cool completely.

7. Eat immediately or store in air-tight container for up to a week.

8. Enjoy!

Strawberry "Poke" Cake (Repost)

Back by popular demand - my Strawberry Poke Cake recipe.

I wish I could take credit for coming up with the idea, but it’s been around for some time and is already pretty well known.

For those who have never been introduced, here’s the basic info. A light, moist, refreshing desert, using a box cake mix, jello, and topped with fresh strawberries as a bonus!

I’m always one to improvise based on what I have on hand, or if I think I might like to change things up a bit, and I encourage you to do the same. For example, since Independence Day is around the corner, top with strawberries AND blueberries for a red, white and blue feast for the eyes and the mouth.

Cream cheese frosting is a departure I made from the recipe when it was given to me. I think whipping cream is what’s traditional. Do what you think you’ll like best!

Ingredients:

• 1 box white, yellow (butter,) or even strawberry flavored box cake mix

• eggs, oil and water as called for on the box

• 1 (3 oz.) box Strawberry Jello

• 1 cup boiling water

• icing or whipped cream

• sliced strawberries, for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare cake batter according to the packaging directions:

2. Pour into greased 9x13 inch baking pan and bake, as directed.

3. Remove from oven. Let cool 30 minutes.

4. Using the handle of a large wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake.

5. In a medium bowl, stir together jello mix and boiling water until jello dissolves completely.

6. Carefully pour mixture evenly over the top of cake. Cover with plastic wrap and place in fridge to chill for 2 hours or until Jello is firm and set.

7. Remove from refrigerator and ice with cream cheese frosting (recipe below,) or whipped cream then garnish with fresh fruit.

8. Serve immediately, or return to refrigerator until served.

CREAM CHEESE FROSTING:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 8oz cream cheese

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 2 tsps vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Combine softened butter and cream cheese in medium bowl: beat on medium speed until well blended.

2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat until creamy.

Freedom Fudge (Repost)

Reprinted from June 2021

Am I the only one that gets a hankering for “out of season” foods? I think not. So when a friend said they were making “Freedom Fudge” to share at an Independence Day gathering, my eyes lit up and my mouth watered.

And besides, as someone who grew up in a coastal town summer tourism and fudge shops are pretty synonymous. But you don’t see fudge recipes circulating much in the summer time, they usually show up in our feeds around Thanksgiving. I mean to change that with this post!

This quick-fudge recipe that makes a plate-full of rich little morsels in a jiffy calls for only 3 ingredients.

It’s so quick and easy, you can make them any day of the year and the recipients will almost certainly erupt in smiles of gratitude.

My friend dressed them up for the 4th of July by drizzling melted white chocolate over the top and adding some red, white, and blue sprinkles. That seems like a lot of work to me, but if you want to, go ahead!

Ingredients:

• 1 12oz package semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 14oz can sweetened condensed milk

• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions:

1. Place sweetened condensed milk and butter in saucepan and heat on stovetop on medium heat until butter is melted.

2. Turn off heat and add chocolate chips, stirring until melted and mixed thoroughly.

3. Pour into 8”x8” baking dish lined with waxed paper.

4. Chill in refrigerator 3 hours or over night.

5. Cut into squares and serve.

Double this recipe for a larger crowd and use a 9”x13” pan. Feelin’ nutty? Add half a cup chopped walnuts. Going soft? Toss in a cup of mini-marshmallows. Trying to lighten up? Substitute white chocolate chips….

Keep it simple, or make it a show-stopper, ‘cuz hey, it’s a free country!

Freedom Fudge; your fudge, your way. Any time of the year!

Red White & Blue - Berry Bites

Reprinted from July 2020

Sharing again…

President’s Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, or Veteran’s Day… there are many designated holidays throughout the year that encourage us to celebrate the American Spirit. One way to do that is to serve up a little red, white, and blue on the buffet table.

I'm not quite sure that Red White & Blue - Berry Bites qualify as a "recipe" as much as it does as a "craft", but since it is definitely edible (very, deliciously edible) I'm filing under both categories.

Ingredients:

• Red ripe strawberries, rinsed, stem on

• White chocolate chips - melted

• Blue sugar crystals

• Waxed or parchment paper

Instructions:

1. Take a sweet, red, beautiful strawberry, holding the stem end in your fingers, dip the tip - up to about 3/4  of the berry into melted white chocolate, then immediately dip it again - leaving a band of white - into blue sugar sprinkles. Place on parchment or waxed paper to "set".  Voila! 

Friend, and Point Hope Director, Jan, made some up with daughter Erin and grandkids; while she thought that perhaps they weren't as picture perfect as the ones from a magazine, there's no doubt a ton of fun and even more love went into their creations.

This is an uncomplicated but showy display of patriotic pride with a berry big blast of flavor! Have fun with it!

Star Spangled Fruit Skewers (Repost)

Reprinted from July 2024

Headed to a 4th of July BBQ tomorrow and don't know what to contribute?

Take these red, white and bluuuuue fruit skewers and watch folks rocket themselves toward the buffet table!

Made with ripe red strawberries, sweet white nectarines, and sensational blueberries, it's a sweet treat that agrees with kids, parents, and most dietary considerations. For a little added pizzazz, these are topped with an angel food cake star, but that's completely optional.

Serve with some sweetened cream cheese fruit dip for an extra explosion of flavor.

Ingredients:

For the skewers -

• Fresh Strawberries

• Fresh White Nectarines (Substitute marshmallows or cubes of angel food cake)

• Fresh Blueberries

• Angle Food Cake, sliced and cut into star shapes (Optional!)

• 6” bamboo skewers

For the fruit dip -

• 8 oz (standard package) cream cheese

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
  

Directions:

For the Skewers -

1. Wash fruit.

2. Remove stems and cut strawberries in half, if desired. Leave whole if you prefer.

3. Cut nectarines in wedges, peel, then cut wedges in half.

4. String fruit onto skewsers in a red, white, and blue pattern.

5. Top with star shaped angle food cake piece.

6. Layer on serving tray.

For the dip -

1. Beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. 

2. Add powdered sugar and mix until well combined,

3. Add vanilla and combine

4. Then add in the lemon juice and beat until creamy, smooth, and irrisistable! 

Red, White, and Blueberry Beet Salad (Repost)

Reprinted from July 2019

Here’s a fun, festive, 4th of July salad for your holiday table. My sister made this one up just for the occasion (because she knows I LOVE beets, even if she doesn’t!)

It calls for 4 very basic ingredients as well as a basic vinaigrette dressing made with red-wine vinegar. You can whisk one up yourself, or use a bottled one you’ve purchased, whichever get’s the job done to your satisfaction and gets you out of the kitchen and back into the celebration as quickly as possible.

You’ll wow your guests (or your hosts) when you place this on the banquet table!

Red, White, and Blueberry Beet Salad

Ingredients:

• 5-6 large beets, peeled, cooked (you may boil or roast - your choice), cooled, and cubed

• 2 pints of blueberries, washed and drained

• 6-8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

• a bed of baby spinach

For the dressing:

• ½ cup olive oil

• 4 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup

• 2 medium cloves garlic, pressed or minced

• ¼ teaspoon fine kosher salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Make the vinaigrette dressing:

   1. In a liquid measuring cup or bowl, combine all of the ingredients except oil. Stir well with a small whisk.

   2. Drop a single drop of oil into the mixture and whisk briskly, add another drop and continue to whisk, then add remaining oil in a stream, continuing to whisk until well blended.

   3. Taste, and adjust as necessary.

2. Place cooked cubed beets in large bowl, add blueberries, pour viniagrette over top and mix well.

3. Place baby spinach leaves on serving platter.

4. Layer dressed beets and blueberries over the top of spinach, then sprinkle liberally with crumbled feta cheese.

5. Refrigerate until serving.

Enjoy this salad, bursting with red, white, and blue flavor, as we celebrate our great nation’s birthday! I hope your 4th full of your favorite ingredients, and mixes up to be a happy and safe holiday!

Let's Eat! | The Simplified Cookbook

Know any newly minted adults who suddenly find they’re in charge of feeding themselves? Or maybe someone who’s been practicing for a while but knows a limited number of filling and familiar recipes? How ‘bout busy parents who just need to get some wholesome meals into the kids and still have some energy left after the ordeal.

For the recent grads or those bored with the same-old, same-old, “The Simplified Cookbook”, by Emily Ley, is your ticket to gastronomic happiness.

Life's complicated. Dinner doesn't have to be. In a world of complex recipes and multi-hour cooking marathons, here's your culinary rebellion: 60 ridiculously simple meals that prove delicious doesn't mean difficult. Each recipe is a gift to your future hangry self – just 6 ingredients, 20 minutes, and zero culinary degrees required.

Think of this as your "I can't even" cookbook. Had a day? These recipes understand. They're the ones that show up in sweatpants, bring the good snacks, and don't judge you for eating straight from the pan. From quick-fix comfort foods to "how did you make this?" dinner party heroes, these 60 assembly-style recipes are your new kitchen best friends. One book. All the go-to meals. Because sometimes the most loving thing you can do for yourself is to keep it simple.

Try the quiche, found on page 36!

As a mom of three running a company, author Emily Ley understands the daily dinner struggle firsthand. She’s turned her talent for simplifying the complicated into a practical guide for anyone who wants to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.

I know a few 20-somethings that can use this, some 30-somethings that will want it, and some I-better-not-say somethings that will love it too!

Make someone’s day (maybe your own) and pick up some copies of “The Simplified Cookbook” to pass around! Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners, Desserts… and beyond. It’s all in,

ORDER: THE SIMPLIFIED COOKBOOK

Rockin' the Tic Tac Toe! | Craft

Tic Tac Toe… Got my ducks in a row!

I’m a little obsessed.

Recently, I picked up some flat rocks, grabbed my paints and brushes, and now I can’t stop making these rockin’ Tic Tac Toe games!

Join me? You could make a really clever Father’s Day or graduation gift using a theme or color scheme that had personal meaning to the recipient.

You’ll need 10 rocks with paintable surfaces, acrylic craft paints and brushes, and a can of spray sealer. You’ll also need something to paint a playing board on - I used wood rounds, but you coud use anything flat, like a ceramic tile, or a chunk of timber. Make sure you wash your rocks and let dry completely for best adhesion.

Paint half the rocks in one color or in such a way you can tell they are a group, like chicks - and 5 of an alternate color or group, such as eggs. (If you’re helping your littles make a gift for papa, just have them paint 5 rocks one color, and 5 rocks another. Or, if they are a little older, maybe paint 5 with X's and 5 with O’s.) Paint a Tic Tac Toe board using 2 verticle lines and 2 horizontal lines so there are 9 playing squares roughly the size of your rock playing pieces.

I’ve shared a few of my favorite designs with you... Yes. they’re corny. Yes, I crack myself up. But I’ve had so much fun making and gifting, and I’m sure you will too!

Be creative. Have fun!

Lemony Rhubarb Scones

Pamper Mom this Mother’s Day, starting off first thing in the morning with these oh-so-delicious Lemony Rhubarb Scones!

My gardens are lush with rhubarb this time of year, and I’m always looking for new ways to use the tart, beautiful stalks. Pies, alone or with other fruits like strawberries and blueberries. are of course a favorite, and I can’t tell you how much rhubarb sauce we go through topping pancakes, waffles, and ice cream! But I’d never thought about using them in scones until a friend recommended this recipe to me.

These two tarts - lemon and rhubard - are tamed with a sweet sugar glaze and the combination is melt-in-your-mouth, delish!

This is a basic scone recipe, which as you know, comes together pretty quickly because it has baking powder for leavening. All you have to do is add the lemon’s zest and juice and the chopped rhubarb to take them from Ho-Hum to Oh-Yum!

Deliver to Mom on a breakfast tray with her morning tea or coffee, a posie, and handmade card to start her day off right. Don’t forget to spoil her the rest of the day as well!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, frozen and grated

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh rhubarb

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.

2. Add grated butter and cut into dry ingredients with a pastry cutter or two forks until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add chopped rhubarb and stir.

4. In small bowl, mix wet ingredients; cream, vanilla, and lemon juice. Pour into the dry mixture and stir until just combined.

5. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface, knead a few times, and shape into disk approximately 1-inch thick.

6. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes - or overnight if you want warm scones in the morning!

7. Preheat oven to 400 degrees as dough is chilling and prepare a baking sheet with a large piece of parchment paper.

8. Cut chilled dough into 8 wedges and place them on prepared baking sheet.

9. Brush the tops with beaten egg

10. Bake for 20 minutes, until golden brown and no longer wet inside.

11. Cool on wire rack then drizzle with glaze.

Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 Tablespoons heavy cream or milk

1. Combine sugar and cream/milk, mixing well until thick and smooth. Add more sugar if too thin, or more cream/milk if too thick. Drizzle over cooled scones.

My Mother's Day Sweepstakes

Mom’s are special! Her day is coming up on Sunday, May 12th!

To celebrate the spring season, and the moms in our lives, I’ve put together another sweet little package to gift-away. This lovely collection is just a few of my favorite things, provided by a few of my favorite radio sponsors.

5 lucky winners will be selected between
Friday, April 25nd - Friday, May 9th.

To enter yourself or a deserving mom, no purchase is necessary, but you must send me a note telling me a little bit about yourself or the person you are nominating. Even though all winners will be chosen at random, I will LOVE reading your letters and learning more about you and/or the special mom you’re nominating!

Use the ENTER button to send me a note telling me who you’d like to see blessed by these delights and why. Make sure you include a full name and shipping address, and an email too.

Good luck and Happy Mother’s Day!

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The Geller Gals at Laura Geller have come up with a special little package for spring, “It’s A Pink Thing” Marbleized Makeup Collection.

It includes their Baked Blush-n-Brighten Marbleized Blush in Pink Praline and a creamy swirled Italian Marble Lipstick in Amarena (like the cherries).  Mom will be radiantly "in the pink' with this delightful duo!

Laura Geller was made for mature women, but that doesn’t stop my daughters from raiding my make-up collection. Their products are that divine, their formulas are that exquisite, and their palettes that up-to-the minute! A little touch of luxury, this gift will be used and appreciated!

Find all the “It’s A Pink Thing” choices,
and so many other delicious offerings at Laura Geller!

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Bigelow Tea, a family-owned business that brought us the citrus and spice delight, Constant Comment, back in 1945, still prepares each tea blend with the utmost care and attention.

This delicious collection of their caffeine free herbal teas makes a great gift for Mother’s Day or any occasion including get well, thinking of you, or simply a treat for any day you might need a moment for yourself. The Benefits Wellness Tea Collection gift box includes 8 tea bags each of Stress Free, Balance, Throat Defense, Sleep and 16 tea bags each of Stay Well & Calm Stomach.

Bigelow Benefits are everyday teas that fuel your body with good for you ingredients. Take a moment just for yourself this spring with Bigelow Tea.

Order the Wellness Tea Collection from Bigelow

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“Becoming Girlilla”, by Jennie Smythe, is my May Book Club pick and I’m dropping copies in my gift packages!

A digital marketing trailblazer, Jennie’s memoir is the unfiltered, inspiring story of her rise from unlikely beginnings to digital marketing powerhouse. Her experiences at Elektra, Disney’s Hollywood Records, YAHOO! Music, Warner Bros. Records, Clear Channel and more led her to launch her own Nashville-based firm, Girlilla Marketing, following a deathbed conversation with her estranged father.
 
Becoming Girlilla highlights how resilience, authenticity, and passion can make a meaningful impact both online and in real life as Jennie candidly shares her path to success, full of sometimes surprising and oftentimes laugh-out-loud moments.

Inspire someone special with a copy of “Becoming Girlilla” today!

______________________

“Shine Bright Anyway” by counselor, Faith Broussard Cade, is a beautiful book with 90 messages to inspire hope.

It was my January Book Club choice, and I’m adding it to my mom’s bundle too! Faith gained a large Instagram following when she started posting daily handwritten positive affirmations or “love notes” on her account as she grappled with recovering from a traumatic brain injury.

Following that success, Faith wrote her debut book which promises to show readers that they are enough even when the world says they’re not. The cheery cover hints at the bright and loving messages inside to lift Mom’s spirit.

Give the gift of “Shine Bright Anyway”.

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Founded in 1912 beneath magnificent Mount Rainier in Washington State, Brown & Haley Candy Co. has been a purveyor of fine confections for over a century.

Their flagship product, Almond ROCA Buttercrunch Toffee combines premium California almonds and pure vanilla with fresh local butter and a Signature Blend of cocoa beans for an irresistible taste sensation of buttery goodness. Each gift tin has individual foil wrapped pieces and is resealable for freshness.

Almond ROCA was my mothers favorite candy, and I can’t unwrap one of the gold foil confections without thinking of her. A beautiful spring Seattle Collectors Tin of Almond ROCA is included in my Mother’s Day bundle in addition to a selection of ROCA bites, in three delectable flavors. A treat for the sweetest of the sweet - Mom!

Surprise all those you love with a tin of Almond ROCA!

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Eyes of Faith® Optical creates eyewear that changes lives and reflects the hope within you.

Their glasses are thoughtfully designed with Biblical scripture printed inside, and every purchase supports meaningful causes like free glasses, shelter, and support for people in need around the world.

My dear friends are contributing a sleek and sporty aviator style pair of sunglasses, in their Reflect design. The classic shape flatters every profile and is finished with high-quality, comfortable spring hinges. The 2 Corinthians 3:18 passage "...see and reflect the glory of the Lord" , is printed inside the temple to remind you to seek and show God's love throughout your day.

Keeping the sun out of your eyes, and the Lord in your heart! Mom will love these!

Find an Eyes of Faith® showroom near you!

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Mercy Ships sends hospital ships filled with caring volunteer medical professionals to heal those without access to medical care in the farthest reaches of the world.

As I a little reminder of all the good they do, I’m dropping in some Mercy Ships swag perfect for the sunny season!

I’ve been helping to spread the word about Mercy Ships and encourage everyone to support their mission with monetary gifts, volunteering, and prayers because I believe in their mission. These gifts help provide free surgery and strengthen the healthcare infrastructure in the nations they serve., bringing hope and healing to children and families suffering from painful, disfiguring, and often preventable conditions.

For a limited time, you can make a greater impact on more children and families by giving monthly. When you make a monthly donation by April 30th, your first three gifts will be matched, up to $25,000, to go twice as far.

Learn more at MercyShips.org

Carrot Cornbread Muffins with Chili Honey

We’ll be setting our Easter brunch tables soon and I’m always looking for simple but tasty offerings to add to mine.

Alongside a spiral cut ham, scalloped potatoes, and assorted veggies and salads, I’m adding these Carrot Cornbread Muffins with a drizzle of Hot Chili Honey.

The muffin recipe is not my own, but the tried and true one that’s appeared on the back of my Albers Corn Meal box since I was old enough to follow written directions and be trusted with the oven. The easy addition of a cup of grated carrot makes them special in a few different ways.

The carrot adds moisture, texture, a hint of sweetness, and a dash of color, elevating the humble muffin to something a little bit special. (And sneaks in some added nutrition and fiber!) But the real star of this show is the the Hot Chili Honey you’ll use - along with a generous dollop of butter - to bring these to the next level!

There are many recipes out there for Hot Chili Honey, several of them call for fresh garlic or fresh peppers, and several more involve corn or potato starch, cooking time, and multiple ingredients. Not this one. Mine calls for honey, bottled hot sauce, and chili powder - with a dash of pepper flakes for show. That’s it.

One of the best things about this combination is that it is shelf-stable for about 3 months. (All those using fresh garlic must be refrigerated and consumed within a week.)

Give this simple, elegant, and tasty combination a go, and let me know how you like it!

Carrot Cornbread Muffin
Ingredients:

• 1 cup corn meal

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1 Tbsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup milk

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

• 1 large egg, slightly beaten

• 1 cup grated carrot

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400* F. Prepare 10-12 greased or paper-lined muffin tins.

2. Combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, bsking powder and salt in medium bowl.

3. Combine milk, oil, and egg in another medium bowl, adding grated carrots last.

4. Add milk/carrot mixture to cornmeal/flour mixture. Stir until just blended.

5. Spoon into prepared tins, filling 3/4 of the way full.*

6. Bake for 15 minutes or until an inserted toothpick come out clean

   * Hint - I like to use a gravy ladle to fill my cupcake and muffin tins.

Hot Chill Honey
Ingredients & Directions:

• 1/2 cup honey

• 3 Tbsp Hot Sauce of your choice

• 1/4 - 1/2 chili powder

• sprinkle of red pepper flakes

Simply combine all ingredients and let the flavors marry a while. Go lightly with the chili powder at first, until you know how hot you’d like your sauce to be. Pour into a sterilized container with air tight seal. Shelf stable up to 3 months.

Love this hot/sweet combo? Don’t think that carrot cornbread muffins is all you an enjoy it with! Sooo delicous on roasted veggies, pizza, chicken and with a charcuterie spread! Enjoy!!

Traditional Irish Brown Bread

‘Tis the month of March, when we’re all just a little bit Irish!

For as many years as I can remember, that means a hearty meal of Corned Beef, Boiled Potatoes, Cabbage, and Irish Soda Bread on the 17th. Mmmmmm.

But recent travelers to the Emerald Isle tell me traditional Irish brown bread is where the real goodness is! They said it was served at every meal, alone with a slathering of Irish butter, as well as alongside soups, stews, and even sometimes made into sandwiches.

It’s a hearty, somewhat sweet dense loaf that quickly comes together. No yeast or rising, but more like a banana bread or pumpkin loaf. Although you’ll need some ingredients you may not have on hand, like buttermilk, molasses, and Guinness Stout.

I hope you’ll think of adding this to your Saint Patrick’s Day meal… and maybe have it often througout the year!

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups whole wheat flour

• 3/4 cup old fashioned oats

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 2 Tbp dark brown sugar

• 1/2 cup molasses

• 1 cup Guinness Stout

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 2 Tbp melted butter

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Place all dry ingredients in large mixing bowl: flour, oats, salt, soda and brown sugar, combining well.

3. Make a well in dry mixture and add all wet ingredients: molasses, Guinness, buttermilk and melted butter. Stir together by hand - do not use a mixer as it’s easy to over mix.

4. Pour into a prepared loaf pan (sprayed liberally with cooking spray or lined with parchment paper.) Spread into corners, cut line through the middle with spatula, and sprinkle top with some oats if desired.

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-55 minutes until toothpick comes out clean.

6. Enjoy!

May the luck o’ the Irish be with ye!