Gobble It Up Cheeseball

Republished from November 2018

My sis was cruising the internet the other day looking for some holiday party inspiration and found this fine not-so-feathered fella.

He's so cheesy! And completely nuts! In fact, he's gone crackers! (And that is how I humor myself friends...) So if you find this appetizer funny, and clever, and aren't worried about your teenagers groaning and rolling their eyes when you present him with a proud-as-a peacock (er, turkey) flourish. Then get your nutty cheese on as she did!

Ingredients:

• Your favorite cheese ball recipe (There’s a recipe below if you don’t have one. Don’t be afraid to improvise and add/subtract spices and ingredients.)

• Red, yellow, and orange bell pepper slices (the mini's do the trick!)

• Pecan Halves

• Almond Slices

• Pumpkin Seeds

• Crackers for tail feathers - oblong work best

• Pepper Corns (or other edible "eyes".)

Directions:

1. Make your cheese ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until firm.

2. Remove from fridge, place on center of serving plate.

3. Insert "tail feathers" in a wide fan - place a smaller number in front and in back of the wide row.

4. Press Pecans in at the "shoulders" working down and toward the back.

5. Press the sliced almonds in near the tail feathers.

6. Press the pumpkin seeds in in front of the almonds.

7. Cut a slice of the Orange Bell Pepper to form a "head and neck (experiment with this) and press into the front of the cheese ball.

8. Cut a "wiggly" slice of Red Bell Pepper and "glue" to the neck with a bit of the cream cheese.

9. Cut a tiny bit of Yellow Bell Pepper for the beak. Use the tip of a paring knife to poke a hole in the "head" and insert a bit for the beak.

10. Find some "eyes." A bit of cracker is used h ere, but pepper corns would work too. “Glue” the eyes on with another little bit of cream cheese.

11. Now, present that proud fine "bird" with a bowl of crackers and shake your tail feathers!!!

Cheese Ball Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature.

• 3/4 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese.

• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon bacon bits.

• 1 tablespoon chives, chopped.

• 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt

• Pinch cayenne pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke

Directions:

1. Mix together all ingredients by hand, or using a mixer, in large bowl until well blended and an even consistency.

2. Form into a ball inside the bowl.

3. Wrap the ball in plastic wrap.

4. Place in the refrigerator until firm (about 2-3 hours.) Use the freezer for 30 minutes if you rarely think ahead (like me.)

5. Decorate your bird! OR

6. Roll in almond slices and serve with a basket of crackers.
   

Spinach & Feta Orzo with Fresh Dill

With the arrival of autumn my taste buds crave savory comfort foods. I’m always on the lookout for delicious new dishes that fit the season, aren’t so difficult to prepare, (that I spend twice as long making it than our time around the dinner table lasts) and will appeal to my kiddos.

This creamy orzo dish loaded with fresh spinach (rich in iron, vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C and folate, as well as being a good source of manganese, magnesium, and vitamin B2!) boasting of fall flavors like garlic and dill, is just the ticket!

The feta cheese makes it somewhat filling, while the lemon zest keeps it light enough to pair along side a salmon or chicken fillet, or even some pork tenderloin medallions.

This dish comes courtesy of my nephew Dalton, who loves to try new recipes and is happy enough to share those that delight with me, and I in turn, with you.

This recipe serves about 4. I triple it for my brood!

Enjoy!

Spinach & Feta Orzo with Fresh Dill

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced

• 2 large garlic cloves, minced

• 8 ounces spinach leaves (about 8 cups), coarsely chopped

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 ¾ cups vegetable stock

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

• zest of one lemon

• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese, plus a bit more for garnish

• 1 cup chopped fresh dill

Directions:

1. Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and scallions (reserving a bit of the green for garnish,) - cook until softened.

2. Stir in chopped spinach and about 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until spinach is wilted, (about 5 minutes.)

3. Pour in stock and bring to a simmer.

4. Add orzo, lemon zest, and another 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir together well, then cover and simmer over medium-low heat until orzo is plump and most of the stock is absorbed, (10 to 15 minutes.)

5. The last step is to stir in crumbled feta cheese and the chopped dill, then cover and cook for about another minute or two, so that the cheese begins to melt into the mixture.

6. To serve, dish onto plates, garnish with reserved scallions and another sprinkle of feta cheese.

New Christmas Movie | "Journey To Bethlehem"

A young woman carrying an unimaginable responsibility. A young man torn between love and honor. A jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown…

“Journey To Bethlehem” is a live-action Christmas musical adventure for the entire family that weaves classic Christmas melodies with humor, faith, and new pop songs in a retelling of the greatest story ever told—the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus.

Screenplay by: Adam Anders & Peter Barsocchini

I got a sneak-peak and was thrilled with it! It's the first musical recounting Mary and Joseph's journey and our entire family was absolutely mesmerized from start to finish. It has some really incredible talent; Fiona Palomo, Milo Manheim, Joel Smallbone (from one of our favorite musical groups, for King & Country!), singer/rapper, Lecrae, AND... Academy-Award Nominee, Antonio Banderas portraying the jealous ruler we love to hate, King Herod.

This movie was directed by Adam Anders, and written by Adam and Nikki Anders. Adam is a four-time Grammy nominee and two-time People’s Choice Award winner. For many years, he served as the executive music producer of “Glee”, and you'll see his writing and directing credits extend to an impressive variety of television, movie and music projects. 

Award-winning recording artist and songwriter, Nikki, has written, performed, or produced for many major motion pictures and television shows, including the Golden Globe-winning hit TV series “Glee.” This talented and passionate husband and wife powerhouse joined me on a recent podcast episode that you can listen to HERE.

You will absolutely LOVE this unique new entry into the collection of holiday classic movies, this epic Christmas musical is unlike any before it.

See “JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM” in theaters beginning November 10
The Greatest Story Ever COMES ALIVE!

Rated PG for Thematic Elements

Garlic and Sumac Roasted Broccoli with Sweet Dates

From the Live Life Deliciously cookbook, by Tara Teaspoon - comes this tasty selection perfect as a Thanksgiving - or weeknight dinner - side; Garlic and Sumac Roasted Broccoli with Sweet Dates.

Kids and adults alike will absolutely gobble this up!

My sis is always the one to bring a big roasting pan of veggies to our holiday gatherings but perhaps I’ll do her proud by tossing this together and serving it up alongside that beautiful bird this year.

Garlic and Sumac Roasted Broccoli with Sweet Dates
4-6 servings
10 Minutes Hands-On / 20 Minutes Total Time

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds broccoli

• 3 tablespoons olive oii

• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 1 teaspoon sumac

• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 4-5 dates sliced crosswise on the bias

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 450 degrees F. Place a rimmed baking sheet in the oven to heat while you prepare the broccoli.

2. Cut broccoli into small florets, slicing large florets in half. (You’ll need 6-7 cups of florets.) In a large bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, garlic, sumac, salt, and pepper.

3. Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and transfer the broccoli mixture to the baking sheet, using a rubber scraper to get all the goods bits out of the bowl.

4. Return pan to the oven and roast broccoli until tender and a bit charred, about 15 minutes.

5. Add dates and serve broccoli immediately.

For more information on Live Life Deliciously, and buy links to purchase your own, visit my Book Club blog HERE.

Fall Book Craft | Paperback Pumpkins!

Some time back, I posted a picture of some adorable paper pumpkins made out of book pages on my Facebook page. Everyone seemed to LOVE the idea!

So I enlisted my niece, Charisa, who caught the crafting bug at an early age - and terrifically out-does her aunties by wide margins these days, (book craft - “wide margins” - see what I did there?!) and I ask her to see how easy this little project really was.

She took an old paperback, tore the cover off, and just started cutting the pages, rounding the corner at the top, with a bit of a dip towards the spine, kind of like when you fold a piece of paper in half and cut out a heart - but not so narrow and pointy at the bottom.

She cut all the pages of the book, then coaxed the pages around and connected front to back with some double-sided craft tape. She actually wrinkled the pages up a bit to make the pumpkin appear fuller, and to give it some stability.

More double-sided tape was used where needed to get the pages to behave like she wanted them to.

She added a stick from her yard for a stem, and a pretty piece of ribbon at the top.

In the photo I’d found on the internet, the crafter had used spray paint to make the pumpkins orange, but Charisa decided she loved the look of the type on printed pages and left her sample in its pure state and color.

She’s not sure if she wants to add more embellishments or leave it as-is. I think it’s perfect!

Will you try it?

Here’s a link to some instructions I found on line Paperback Pumpkins - or you can be like Charisa and just make it up as you go along!

Kneaders Bakery & Cafe | October Book Club

Wow! Wow! Wow! Have I chosen the PERFECT book for my October Book Club!

Kneaders Bakery & Cafe: A Celebration of Our Recipes and Memories by Colleen Worthington.

This big, heavy, hard cover volume contains all the recipes you’ll need to see you through the coming months (including the holidays!) and beyond! So many delicious artisan and sweet breads, as well as the soups, sides, and salads you want to go with them! Then they add scrumptious sandwiches, dips, and desserts too. And if that weren’t enough, there’s a whole section on drinks and smoothies!

The recipes are accompanied by the most stunning full-page, color photographs that will make your tastebuds tingle just looking at them.

How does Turkey Curry Chowder sound on a cold winter’s eve? That’s one of the many soup recipes I’m looking forward to trying with and on my big brood! I’m sure it will be a hit, especially paired with the Kaiser Rolls (which we could also use for sandwiches or burger buns.) There are just so many intriguing ideas between the covers of this book!

“The story of Kneaders Bakery & Cafe began with Colleen and Gary Worthington baking traditional European bread in their kitchen. After mastering old-world bread-baking techniques and testing countless recipes, Colleen, Gary, and their growing team of bakers moved onto their signature artisan bread.

But bread is just the beginning. Kneaders is well-known for their mouth-watering soups, sandwiches, and breakfast as well as their delectable pies, cakes, and pastries. For the first time, home cooks have access to popular recipes such as Overnight Chunky Cinnamon French Toast, Artichoke Portobello Soup, and Blueberry Sour Cream Pie. Beautiful and appetizing photos accompany each recipe.

What began in Colleen Worthington’s kitchen a little more than twenty-five years ago has grown into a successful family-owned bakery and cafe business with time-tested, delicious recipes gathered in this one-of-a-kind cookbook.

Kneaders also has 48 restaurant locations.
Find the one closest to you here: KNEADERS LOCATIONS

You’ll want your own copy of Kneaders Bakery & Cafe: A Celebration of Our Recipes and Memories of course and I suggest you waste no time before placing your order!

ORDER: Kneaders Bakery & Cafe

Sweet Treat | Fairy Bread

Fairy Bread, that Down-Under-Come-Northward treat, seems to be all over our social media feeds these days; white bread, slathered with a thick layer of butter, covered in rainbow sprinkles...

But did  you know it's origins are nearly one hundred years old?!

No? Neither did I until my Googling fingers got itchy and I did a little internet sleuthing. From Wikipedia:

"The first known reference to this dish as Fairy Bread was in the Hobart Mercury in April 1929. Referring to a party for child inmates of the Consumptive Sanitorium, the article proclaimed that "The children will start their party with fairy bread and butter and 100s and 1,000s, and cakes, tarts, and home-made cakes..."

The origin of the term is not known, but it may come from the poem 'Fairy Bread' in Robert Louis Stevenson's A Child's Garden of Verses published in 1885, and had been used for a number of different food items before the current usage.”

Sprinkles have a culinary moniker some of us may remember from our childhood, nonpareils. (Look up that word and it's a little confusing as to why it's used for little candy bits.) I remember my mother’s baking cupboard had a container of shiny round silver candies labeled nonpareils - they were used sparingly and we were always warned not to eat them, because although “edible” they’d probably break a tooth! Rainbow sprinkles are a favorite with children, and a peak at any baking aisle shows they come in all kinds of shapes, flavors, and sizes. ( A lot like the people who enjoy them!)

Other countries have different terms for them. In Australia and New Zealand, where Fairy Bread hails, for  example, they're called "Hundreds & Thousands."  And in Holland, they're "Hagelslag" (hail storm).  In fact, the Dutch have their own version of Fairy Bread that also originated way back in the 1920's. It’s basically the same, a slice of bread — though a denser country bread is typically used — coated with butter, and liberally sprinkled with chocolate hagelslag.

My granddaughters demonstrating that half the fun is making it themselves!

My readings also tell me that hagelslag is a bit different than our American sprinkles. They are larger and the chocolate variety used in this tasty example, according to The Spruce Eats, must contain at least 32 percent cocoa. I don’t think you’ll find the same to be true here.

… and the rest of the fun comes from eating it!

Does any of this sound remotely yummy to you? Well, kids LOVE it! And because I know I'll get a lot of backlash if I were to ever recommend it as a super easy, novel, after-school-treat, I won't do that.

(But you know, what happens in your kitchen with your kiddos is between you and their dentist!)

Come up here, O dusty feet!
Here is fairy bread to eat.
Here in my retiring room,
Children, you may dine
On the golden smell of broom
And the shade of pine;
And when you have eaten well,
Fairy stories hear and tell.

~ RLS

Not That Fancy | September Book Club

Anyone that knows me knows that I’m not that fancy. Really. And apparently neither is one of my biggest inspirations, Ms. Reba McEntire.

Her new book, “Not That Fancy, Simply Lessons on Living, Loving, Eating, and Dusting Off Your Boots” tells it like it is.

Plain. Simple. And down to earth. Just like Reba… with some amazing talent, hard work, and tenacity thrown into the mix!

The best things in life are really not that fancy. This photo-driven book featuring all-things-Reba invites you to get back to the basics of life: fun, food, friends, and family. In her first book in over two decades, actress and country music legend Reba McEntire takes you behind the scenes and shares the stories, recipes, and Oklahoma-style truths that guide her life.

“Not That Fancy“ includes:

• Nearly 200 photographs from Reba’s childhood, career, and personal life—many of which are straight from Reba’s phone

• Never-before-told stories from rodeoing with her family to pranks with Brooks & Dunn to falling in love over a plate of tater tots

• Behind-the-scenes anecdotes from her music and acting career, with inspiration on how to follow your passion, trust your gut, and take a chance on yourself

• More than 60 recipes of appetizers, mains, sides, desserts, and cocktails from Reba’s personal kitchen, from friends and family, and from her restaurant, Reba’s Place

• Lighthearted lifestyle tips on how to achieve Reba’s signature hairstyle, plan a down-to-earth date night, throw an effortless dinner party, and more.
  

  WATCH the behind the scenes SNEAK PEAK

This heavy, hard bound volume is as beautiful as Reba herself. It’s going to look gorgeous on your coffee table right next to a little autumn decor, begging to be opened and read.

It’s available on October 10, so pre-order yours now so you have it in hand to lend all the fall inspo you need for recipes, relationships, and realizing your self-worth!

 Pre-Order HERE

Great American Family | Christmas In July

There’s a new kid in town, and they love Christmas as much as I do!

Great American Family is America’s destination for family friendly TV, holiday movies, rom-coms , fan-favorite series… and Christmas, Christmas, Christmas!!!

Great American Family presents the second annual Great American Christmas in July beginning June 30 with 24/7 Christmas movies and the world premiere of A Belgian Chocolate Christmas! Join them for this all-new original premiere on July 8 at 8/7c.

In A Belgian Chocolate Christmas, a photographer takes her best friend's place at a Belgian culinary school during the holidays and connects with the chocolatier leading the class. A case of mistaken identity impacts their blossoming romance

You can find Great American Family on your provider or streaming service by visiting their channel finder at greatamericanfamily.com.

Then, Great American Autumn returns this September with all-new, fall-themed original movies followed by Great American Christmas beginning in October!

Follow along on Great American Family’s social media and newsletter for special announcements and movie schedules!

I’m a firm believer that Christmas is something to be celebrated all the year through, and I’m looking forward to several July evenings with the kids (maybe some mornings too!) having a little “down-time” from our activity-packed summer, watching Christmas movies on Great American Family! How does that sound to you?

Red, White, and Blueberry Beet Salad

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 (and 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!

Freedom Fudge

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 (and almost fully open) country!

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

Red White & Blue - Berry Bites

Reprinted from July 2020

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!

Aquarium Birthday Party Splash!

One of my granddaughters wanted an Aquarium theme for her 5th birthday party and this grandma delivered!

I spent weeks painting sea creatures and cutting them out to fill an aquarium (mounted on the inside of a window) and then got started on party games.

• I painted an aquarium scene on a sheet that, when draped over a curtain rod, made a perfect fishing booth. (A couple of dowels with string and an alligator clip at the end were poles for catching little sea creature stuffies… )

• A corn hole board painted over with a shark’s gaping mouth, and bean bags I sewed together - again in the shape of sea creatures - saw a lot of tossing action.

• And there was blindfold fun with Pin the Shell on the Otter game!

I also made several giant jelly fish out of paper lanterns, ribbon, netting and whatnots, cut and glued eyes onto red felt circles and toothpicks for crabby sandwiches (turkey and cheese on mini croissants) and brought blue table clothes, and shell table scatters for the final touch.

My daughter created a magical coral reef using pool noodles cut, shaped, and wired into place that set the stage for it all. Her party favors were sand buckets with sea themed crafts and sea creature face masks.

An inflatable pool/ slide /spray park was a giant hit! And a cake made by my sister was as tasty as it was creative.

The sun shone brightly, the kids went wild, and one little girl exclaimed "This is the best day of my whole ENTIRE life!" That’s saying quite a lot since she’s been here for five whole years!

Ok, Ok, I did go a little overboard, and I’m not recommending that every kid needs an over-the-top (or under-the-sea) blowout birthday party, but I loved having something to pour my creative energies into and loved seeing how happy it made her and the new group of friends she made in Pre-K this year.

Are you more “party” or “pooper”??? I hope you have some fun planned for the summer!

Cauliflower 'Faux-tato' Salad

Reposted from June 2019:

My potato salad is famous (or perhaps infamous, not sure which…) and I’ll make it for any occasion; BBQ’s, birthdays, bar mitzvah’s… but (confession session) sometimes I crave a lighter dish.

Enter this delicious “faux-tato” salad made with steamed cauliflower florets - it’s so so tasty, but far lower in carbs. It’s got everything you want for a great picnic salad except all the starch. Go ahead, give it a try!

Ingredients:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets

• 1/2 cup bacon bits (about 6 rashers of bacon)

• 1/2 c. sour cream

• 1/4 c. mayonnaise

• 1 tspn stone-ground mustard

• 1 tbsp. dill pickle brine (vinegar or lemon juice work too!)

• Salt and Pepper

• 1 1/2 c.  cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1/4 c. chives, chopped small

Directions:

1. Add cauliflower florets to about 1” of boiling water in large pot or pan. Cover and allow to steam until tender - about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, drain, and cool. Set aside.

2. Cook bacon rashers until crispy, turning to crisp each side. Drain on paper towels then break or chop into bits.

3. Mix together, sour cream, mayonnaise, mustard, pickle brine (or vinegar or lemon juice) in a large bowl. Add the steamed and cooled cauliflower florets and gently stir to coat. Season with salt and pepper, then fold in bacon, cheddar, and chives. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Of course, like most of my recipes, they’re more suggestion than anything else. If you have a particular way you like to dress your potato salad, give it a try only use the cauliflower florets instead of starchy ‘taters.

I’m always interested in what you think - so tell me if you try this, any adjustments you might make to it, and most importantly, what was the cause of your gathering and celebration?! I’m nosy that way!

You're Going To Make It | May Book Club

YOUR’E GOING TO MAKE IT

Ohhhh life! Such a beautiful, bizarre, complicated, thrilling, confusing jumble of glorious existence! While I’m firmly committed to the belief that we must choose positivity and create our own happiness, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Throw in some profound loss and times of inevitable loneliness, things can get downright murky!

We need tools, and skills, and intentional practices to help us maintain balance and perspective - and JOY!

I’ve found something to help us all, and have made it my May Book Club choice:

“You’re Going To Make It; 50 Morning and Evening Devotions to Unrush Your Mind, Uncomplicate Your Heart, and Experience Healing Today”, by New York Times #1 bestselling author, Lysa TerKeurst.

In her newest devotional Lysa TerKeurst helps us stay connected to God and continue loving others even in the middle of discouraging, disappointing, or even devastating circumstances.

It’s a GORGEOUS hardbound book created with all the little details that make my heart trill when I hold it in my hands; beautiful gold lettering, a satin ribbon marker, stunning graphics and serene photography.

Each of the 50 daily devotionals provide grounded and faith-based insight and comforting reassurance to reflect back on throughout the day.

Each evening a “statement to remember” is provided, along with a space reserved for the reader to make a notation of “Something to release back to God from today.”

This devotional is such a gift from Lysa and will be accepted with gratitude to whomever you decide to share it with. Start with yourself.

Spring is the time for new beginnings and if you were wondering how you might get started, here’s your answer.

Find a lovely note from Lysa, more information about the devotional, and purchase information here:

YOU’RE GOING TO MAKE IT

Mother's Day Sweepstakes

Mother’s, and those with mother’s hearts, are very special! So many women (and men) have held space for me, providing love, guidance, and shelter from the storms of life. They became even more important when my own beautiful mother passed when I was still a young woman.

This Mother’s Day - May 14th - I want to celebrate you all, and so do some of my incredible radio sponsors!

We’ve put together this bundle of goodies and will be gifting it away to 5 lucky sweepstake recipients.

Use the ENTER button at the bottom of this page to send me a note telling me who you’d like to see blessed by this bundle and why. Make sure you include full name, shipping address, and an email.

Please share all your stories of love and mothering with me.

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Laura Geller Beauty products are specially formulated for women over 40, but loved by women of all ages. (My daughters can’t keep their hands out of my makeup bag!) They’ve gathered some of their most popular products to include in our bundle.

It begins with their luxurious Spackle Skin Perfecting Primer in Original Clear; it feels sooo good as it glides onto your bare skin! Their Baked Blush-n-Brighten Marbelized Blush in Tropic Hues will brighten your cheeks and your day! The eyes have it with the The Ultimate Palette Hidden Gems 31 baked eye shadows, and the Deep Charcoal Kajal Longwear Eyeliner that I’ve come to love! (It’s infused with caffeine to reduce puffiness around the eyes!) Finishing off the look is Modern Classic Waterproof Lip Liner in Magic Mauve, and their luscious Modern Classic Cream Lipstick in a light and lovely, Berry Bliss.

Visit Laura Geller Beauty to see all their amazing offerings, get a few things for yourself, and something for a special lady in your life!

LAURA GELLER BEAUTY

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Oooooooh, Cariloha, how spoiled I feel when wrapped in your luxuriousness - and you will too! Cariloha products, which include bed, bath, and apparel, are made of sustainable bamboo-viscose that provides luxurious comfort while also helping to save the environment. Making you feel good inside and out!

Cariloha’s contribution to our pampering package is an oh-so-yummy Sherpa Bamboo Knit Throw that will take the chill off these still nippy spring mornings and is simply perfect to wrap up in for some Netflix at night!

Do yourself a favor and check out Cariloha - Where the style of the Caribbean meets the spirit of aloha.™ - and get to know all their incredible offerings. Your Mother’s Day shopping just got easier!

CARILOHA
(Use promo code LOVE for 35% off your order!)

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Our besties at Bigelow Tea have come through for us with this charming duo: A generous sampling of signature tea blend, Constant Comment, and an adorable 12 ounce distressed-look Warm Hugs Teapot.

Created to “give a warm hug” and honor those served at the Norma Pfriem Breast Center and women and families everywhere as they overcome the challenges of breast cancer, you’ll enjoy snuggling up with this warm little teapot and taking 15 minutes to yourself to sip, breathe, and relax.

Stop by Bigelow Tea to see their incredible selection of hot teas, Bigelow Benefits blends, and their refreshing Cold Water Infusions that will be perfect for the approaching warmer weather! Mom will love this thoughtful (re)treat.

BIGELOW TEA

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My good friends at Eyes of Faith Optical are providing these gorgeous sunglasses in the Delilah Shadow style frame.

Eyes of Faith, a company founded on the three principals of Purpose, Passion & Style, places a bible scripture on the inside of each frame to remind us to go forward each day with eyes of faith. Their frames are both beautiful and durable, and a portion of each purchase helps to make the world a better place through their many charitable works and good deeds.

You’ll want to take a look at all they have to offer, and ask your favorite optician to do the same!

EYES OF FAITH OPTICAL

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Years ago I paired up with Balsam Hill and it’s been a match made in heaven. Their faux Christmas trees, greenery, spring and fall florals are so realistic even my florists friends have been awed!

This spring the Balsam Hill Villa Cucina Foliage collection caught my eye, and I knew you’d love it too!

The Hanging Door Basket will greet your guests as cheerfully as the chirping robins we’re hearing in the mornings! This handcrafted beauty is stuffed with olive sprays, olives, lemons, kumquats, and citrus blossoms, and hung by a wide burlap ribbon and bow. The look will instantly transport you to the Italian countryside.

Pay Balsam Hill a visit to see the rest in the Villa Cucina Collection, and all their spring delights! Pick something out for Mom and for yourself while you’re there!

BALSAM HILL

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Moms do. it. all. This package is for her.

Picture her on the veranda on a crisp sunny spring morning feeling glam wearing some gorgeous cosmetics, wrapped up in a cozy throw, sipping the citrusy warmth of the first blended tea in America, sporting stylish sunglasses and gazing upon her lush basket of spring florals… It’s quite the image, because she’s quite the special lady!

Our sweepstakes will be open for entries Friday, April 28 through Friday, May 12. To enter, click the button below and send me a note telling me who you feel deserves all these special gifts and WHY. Winners will be chosen at random, but I would like to share your stories with our listeners.

Best of luck to everyone!

May | National Stroke Awareness Month

May is National Stroke Awareness Month and I’m doing all I can to help raise awareness of the Number 5 cause of death (Number 3 for women!) and the leading cause of disability in the U.S.

I’ve been talking to my friends at the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, and I’m passing along some information they’ve shared.

Thankfully, a large majority of stokes can be prevented. It goes without saying that we should take good care of ourselves; proper nutrition and exercise, along with getting the right amount of Zzzz’s is so important!

You and your health care professional should act as a team! Having a good relationship with your family doctor and understanding your risk factors is another step you can take to reduce your chance of a stroke.

Some risk factors are controllable and treatable, while others aren’t. Things like knowing where your blood pressure’s at and taking measures to keep it in a healthy range can help to keep you healthy, happy and here with your loved ones for years to come. High blood pressure is the Number 1 preventable cause of stroke and there are safe and effective treatments available to keep it in check.

Not to be alarmist, but stroke actually kills more women than men. In fact, one in five women between the ages of 55 and 75 will have a stroke. Take this seriously my friends. Learning how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T. could save a life - maybe your own!

• F- Face Drooping

• A- Arm Weakness

• S- Speech Difficulty

• T- Time to Call 911

A stroke can happen to anyone, at any age, but most of us don’t know the F.A.S.T. warning signs. Because strokes need immediate medical help, recognizing the signs and acting F.A.S.T. can minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death.

Having a stroke puts you at higher risk for a second one. This stroke month let’s come together to defeat stroke by acting F.A.S.T. Your health is in your hands. There’s loads of information and support at Stroke.org/StrokeMonth including checklists and information for healthy living tips. Visit them today.

April showers have delivered May flowers and this timely message. The HCA Healthcare Foundation is proud to be a national supporter of the American Stroke Association’s Together to End Stroke®.

Sending heartfelt wishes for happy and healthy days ahead,

20-40-60 Minute Dinners | April Book Club

When daylight starts stretching into the evening hours, it’s time to celebrate! It’s also time to start doing all the things we forgot about during the winter months. Like gardening, Little League and Spring Soccer practices, and all kinds of other fun activities! But then the dinner hour sneaks up on us and all of a sudden we’re cruising through a drive-through groaning inwardly or outwardly…

That’s why I’ve chosen “20-40-60 Minute Dinners; Meals to Match The Time You Have” for my book club this month - to help take the anxiety around “what to fix for dinner?!” down a notch or two!

Arranged by the time it takes to prepare a meal, rather than alphabetically, author Kate Otterstrom, (who also, btw, is the creator of the Dinner in Real Time blog,) has put together a beautiful and oh-so-helpful cookbook full of meals to match the time you have to get them on the table! Kate is the busy mom of four, so you know that she’s got some practice at pulling together tasty and healthful meals in-between demanding schedules!

Anyone who finds themselves getting take-out far more often than they’d like will appreciate the abundance of fabulously simply ideas found between the pages of 20-40-60 Minute Dinners. I’ll be gifting a copy to one of my daughters, herself a mom of two active littles, because I know she’ll love the ideas it holds, and also because the recipes include gluten-free alternatives, which she must adhere to.

I appreciate how there’s nothing fussy about this cookbook, because delicious food that meet our dietary requirements does not have to be fussy! Even for folks like me, who’ve been at this dinner game for too many years to confess, will find some great reminders between its pages. For example, bagels with lox and cream cheese with a green salad? Yes! Perfect. A quick, filling, and fun dinner when you need to throw together something FAST. Kate suggests too, that served make-your-own bar style gets her kids more excited and up for trying new things like a sprinkling of capers. Note taken!

Here’s to a beautiful spring and summer and to getting dinner on the table, deliciously, in the time that you actually have, be it 20, 40, or 60 minutes!

Pick up your copy - and another for a gift - here: 20-40-60 Minute Dinners

Rise Today | March Book Club

RISE TODAY

March is a frenzied and chaotic month, wind, rain, sleet, hail, snow, and sunshine… sometimes all within 5 minute of the other! Don’t things always feel somewhat topsy-turvy when something profound is about to take place? Like the month before spring’s arrival, bringing rebirth and renewal. And like our lives as we navigate difficult or challenging circumstances.

Feeling a bit frenzied and chaotic yourself? Have I got a balm for you! My March Book Club pick,“RISE TODAY - Trusting God and His Promise”, by Jason F. Wright.

It’s a precious little hardback book, rightly likened to an “illustrated extended greeting card with a message that offers hope in dark times.” Absolutely perfect for tucking into an Easter basket, into a loved one’s hand, or into a padded envelope for the outgoing mail. RISE TODAY has full-color graphics between all 32 pages.

Author Jason F. Wright, who also penned the NYT bestselling novel,“Christmas Jars”, has been a guest preacher at many churches throughout the country, sharing motivational and inspiring messages while also doing outreach to people temporarily without housing or in financial difficulties.

He graciously accepted my invitation to be a guest on my popular podcast series, “LOVE SOMEONE with Delilah” and when the episode is published you’ll definitely want to pull up a chair and have a listen.

Jason is one of the most positive, caring, kind, and inspirational people you’ll ever meet. His joy is infectious and you come away from every encounter with him feeling calm and hopeful.

That’s what his writing does for you as well. It’s why I feature his books so often in my book club, like “Even The Dog Knows,” from last August.

I’ve leafed through RISE TODAY, so many times since I received my early copy from the publishers. When I’m feeling anxious I find myself reaching for it, enjoying the comfort and inspiration that wash over me. I love the 5 specific suggestions it contains to help folks like me rise above life’s doldrums. Because, let’s be honest, we ALL find ourselves there from time-to-time. Jason offers advice he’s come by while striving to live a Christ-centered life and through worshipping with many different congregations together in churches across the country.

It begins simply enough. “He. Is. Risen. “

“Those three words are more than a headline,” says the author. “They are a promise. Because He is risen, we too shall rise again. Every child of God has moments when it feels as if a giant rock has been rolled in front of our path. You may feel emotionally whipped by winds beyond your control. You may be thinking your own saving miracle is too far away to lean on. If you feel alone, in the dark, or powerless, remember that rising again doesn’t need to wait until body and soul reunite. HE IS RISEN so we can rise . . . TODAY.”

Pick up your copy
(and copies for everyone you want to share this beautiful message with) here:
RISE TODAY

Dutch Babies

When my kids or my brother’s kids visit our sister, their auntie, they always ask for Dutch Babies.

She’s been serving them these puffy golden treats for years. As children they were fascinated with the way they puff up so impressively in the oven, and deflate once removed.

They can be topped with all sorts of sweet concoctions, fresh fruits and berries in the summer time, apples and cinnamon in the winter, lemon curd in the spring… jams, jellies, or sometimes just more butter and powdered sugar. (Zack preferred them with chocolate chips, whipped cream, and chocolate syrup!)

She uses a very simple recipe that calls for 1/4 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of flour for every egg, adjusted for pan size, and lots and lots of butter. She advocates for a few more minutes in the oven than many recipes advise because folks in this family don’t appreciate the “custardy” taste or texture that others do. You do you.

She recently cooked up a batch and made them “fun size” in individual muffin tins. This would make a delightful Valentine's Day breakfast served with your sweetie’s favorite fruit toppings, more butter, powdered sugar and/or syrup. (Much as you would a Belgian Waffle.)

The serving pictured here is topped with raspberry jam and whipped cream. Mmmmm.

The quantities below will work for 12 muffin tins or a 9” pie dish.

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs

• 3/4 cup milk

• 3/4 cup flour

• 1/2 cup (1 cube/ 24 teaspoons) of butter

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Place 2 teaspoons of butter in the bottom of each muffin tin. Place in oven the last few minutes it is preheating until butter is melted and bubbling, but do not let it brown. Remove from oven.

3. In a blender (a smoothie Bullet works well) combine eggs and milk, followed by flour added a 1/4 cup at a time.

4. Pour batter over hot, melted butter, filling each cup about 1/2 full.

5. Place in 400 degree oven and bake 15-20 minutes until puffed and a deep golden color.

6. Remove from oven, top with favorite toppings, and serve.
   

   Notes:

   1. If using a 9x13 pan, use 5 eggs, 1 1/4 cup milk, 1 1/4 cup flour, and a full cube of butter cut into pieces.

   2. Serve alongside bacon, sausage or other protein. They are delicious but won’t take you to lunch time on their own.

   3. Fun fact. Yorkshire Pudding is made with the same batter, but “drippings” are used in place of butter and they are served with gravy, making them savory instead of a sweet side. Try both!