Cottage Cozy

A Pink Toy for Me

2012-01-27T08:00:00.001-08:00

I can't wait to try out my new vertical food stacker...

Hearts...just in time for Valentine's Day...

Oh the possibilities...

~stay cozy~

carrie

~a vintage birthday~

2012-01-24T23:11:00.000-08:00

Vintage candles...a puzzle cake,

Just put it together... no need to bake.

Candle holders from long ago

Ballerinas make the party glow..

Sweet decorations from way back when...

Make it special once again!

Happy Birthday to my niece, Meagan!

(you are hardly vintage)

Stay Cozy, Carrie

~ in the pink ~

2012-01-17T23:27:00.000-08:00

It is so much fun to craft with pink....

hmmm...what shall I create?

Happy Pink Crafting,

Carrie

Collectible Yellow.....

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

The sun was shining on my Vintage Finds today....

Yellow was in abundance...

Bright Daisy Yellow Metal Canisters...

...a golden yellow cake carrier...

...and a darling lemon yellow juice pitcher!

It was a truly mellow yellow kind of day!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Tasty Tuesday...

2012-01-10T19:56:00.000-08:00

I am joining "Tasty Tuesday" over at

33 Shades of Green
to bring you my Tuesday Night dinner...

Pan Sauteed Chicken Breast on a bed of

fresh spinach with tomato risotto!

A quick & tasty dinner...
so I can get back into my craft room!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Delicious Vitalicious!

2012-01-09T13:54:00.000-08:00

Have you ever tried Muffin Tops from Vitalicious?

They are fabulous !

I have been purchasing them online for years

I eat the chocolate ones right out of the freezer!

Now they are also available in many stores including my local Target!

But recently I purchase their muffin mix online!

.... it came with one of their silicone pans

for making the vita tops right at home!

They came out perfectly...and I have 12 okay 11(had to eat a warm one) of them in my freezer for a

chocolate satisfying low calorie healthy snack!

All Vitalicious products are Kosher certified and all natural with no
artificial additives or preservatives.

The deep chocolate VitaTops are made with real cocoa, egg whites, chocolate chips,

whole wheat & organic sugar.

Each muffin top contains 100 calories, 1.5g fat,

and a whopping 9 g fiber!

They come in a variety of delicious flavors...I have tried many of them...

and Vitalicious offers many other delicious products too.

*I am not getting paid by Vitalicious in any way for this endorsement...

I simply love their company, customer service and of course their products*

Give them a try!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

1950's mayonnaise making...

2012-01-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

So this was the way to make homemade Mayonnaise....
back in the day...

I found this Vintage Wesson Oil Mayonnaise maker
during my "saturday thrifting"

So cool ~ The recipe is embossed right on the jar...

~an egg, 2 tbls. lemon juice or vinegar, a teaspoon each

mustard, salt,sugar and a dash of pepper

Beat in thoroughly as you pour from can

one pint Wesson oil!

Once you were done adding all the oil, your mayonnaise was finished.

The lid was specially made so the oil would gradually drizzle down on the other
ingredients while you beat everything together.

This Vintage Find is listed in my EBAY shop!

Stay Cozy,
Carrie

Melmac Magic...

2012-01-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

Look what appeared on the shelf of my local

Vintage Store....

~ This fabulous set of vintage Melmac Dishes ~
Harmony House "Talk of the Town"

The colors...the shapes... just like rainbow sherbet!

and the entire set so complete!

Cool & Cozy,
Carrie

Visit lots of fun Pink Treasures at the Pink Party here!

A Post Christmas Birthday...

2012-01-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Daughter ~ Gracie ~ turned 22!

Cupcakes...Capellini.......and Congratulations!

Staying Cozy,

Carrie

Some New Year Prep...

2012-01-01T19:54:00.000-08:00

Today we worked around the house

getting ready for the new year....

Since we are limited on space...we found a little table

for $6.99 at the thrift store

and set up a small office area in the living room...

Then my husband worked outside trimming the bushes and
shrubs for the winter season...

While I straightened up the pantry.......

...and organized my extra dish/appliance

area in the garage...

I rewarded us both with some tuna burger

sandwiches... so we could kick off the new year

with a healthy & delicious meal!

It felt good to get things organized....

...now I'm off to tackle my craft room!

Happy New Year!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Need a quick gift?

2011-12-20T23:04:00.000-08:00

Try these....

Yummy little loaves filled with love!

They are easy to make and delicious to eat...

Cranberry-Pineapple-Nut Bread

That is if you don't eat all the batter....

I know...I know...it has raw eggs...but sometimes...well...

I made 16 15 sweet gifts in a snap...yes I ate one!

And I made a medium sized loaf and sent it to my mom & dad in California!

All from this one batch!

Here's the recipe:

3 Large Eggs
1 cup canola oil
2 cups granulated sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
12 oz bag cranberries – put in the food processor for just a whirl to chop
1 cup (8 oz can) crushed pineapple – drained
3 cups flour
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp each: cinnamon, ginger, nutmegor use allspice
*You can add 3/4 cup raisins if you like...I used walnuts instead

Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare loaf pans with non-stick cooking spray

Beat the eggs, oil, sugar, vanilla for about 3 minutes. Stir in the chopped cranberries and the crushed pineapple.

Sift the flour, baking soda, powder, salt and the spices and stir JUST TO COMBINE – DON’T OVER MIX into the eggs/fruit mixture.

Pour into the prepared pans and bake for 1 hour 10 minutes or until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

I'm melting...

2011-12-15T21:29:00.000-08:00

Is this not the cutest Christmas cookie?

~the "melting" snowman~

For a "how-to" visit Meaghan at The Decorated Cookie!

...where you will find some fabulous creations!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Last Minute Cookie Packaging...

2011-12-13T22:42:00.000-08:00

Cookies make adorable gifts...

when packaged up in paper CD envelopes.

bhg.com

free printable labels

Martha Stewart's Cookie Book

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Tangy Treats

2011-12-06T11:58:00.000-08:00

Lemon Snow Brownies

A treat to share at my office/staff party tonight!

Tangy & Yummy...and so easy to make.

Here's the recipe!

Lemon Brownies
1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) butter; room temperature
4 eggs
Juice from 1/2 lemon
Zest from 1 lemon

Glaze

1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Preheat oven to 350 degrees/ Line the bottom only of a 9X13X2-inch baking dish with parchment paper and spray with Pam. In a mixing bowl, stir together flour, sugar and salt; add butter. Stir together eggs, juice from 1/2 lemon and zest from 1 lemon; stir into batter and pour into prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until set, use a toothpick to check. Remove from oven and cool on a rack. Drizzle with glaze and add "snow"!

Stay Cozy & Warm

(It is 34 degrees here right now)

Love, Carrie

Simple Bling

2011-12-02T21:22:00.000-08:00

While everyone seems to have their tree up and their home decorated for the holidays...

I am stil contemplating the kind of tree I want this year.

My husband wants a real tree for sure,

Our space is limited so it will have to be quite narrow!

That won't be a problem ~ there is an abundance of

fir trees here in Oregon!

My dilema is ~ how I am going to decorate it?

I am striving for a simple Christmas.

A season of truly celebrating Jesus' birth, His life on the earth

and His death on the cross for our salvation!

I love the season and all of the celebrations to come...

but I have challenged myself to slow down, "do" less of the things that don't really matter,

enjoy special time with family and friends....and for me...spend time in my kitchen baking treats to

share with those I love and those I have yet to meet.

So here we are...back at the beginning...

what shall my tree be?

A tree of fruit & popcorn?

~or perhaps everything in red!

~ white decorations are simple & pretty ~

~ or maybe even snow ~

I could decorate my tree with cards?

Last year my tree was small and colorful and covered in paper umbrellas!

Hmmm ~ well we are off to cut down a tree this weekend ~

please let me know if you have any suggestions!

I will share my decorated tree with you soon!

In the meantime ~ Stay Cozy ~

and enjoy the Season!

Warmly,

Carrie

A White Wednesday Winnings...

2011-11-27T16:05:00.000-08:00

I am so lucky to have won Spencer's giveaway at Bellamere Cottage!

I am the new owner of the most fabulous goodies....

Don't you agree?

I hit the "giveaway jackpot"!

I adore it all, Spencer...

I can't thank you enough!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Paper Roses...

2011-11-22T22:53:00.000-08:00

I have been having fun making these "paper bag" flowers.

You can use them to decorate a gift bag, as I have done...

string them together to create a garland...

add a place card with a clothespin for your table setting....

all kinds of fun!

Visit Emily at 52 Mantels to see the instructions.

She did a fabulous job with these fun flowers!

Stay Cozy....and...

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

Carrie

A Pink Surprise...

2011-11-16T17:43:00.000-08:00

I just sent this "Sandra Magsamen" Pink Christmas tree to my sister

for her birthday.

I thought it would make a perfect addition to her sweet, little,

"Pink Plum Cottage"!

Sweet Wishes to a "Grown Up" Princess!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

I am on a "pumpkin" roll....

2011-11-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

Mini "Pumpkin Butter" Cheesecakes

12 vanilla wafer cookies (for crust)
8 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
8 oz fat-free vanilla Greek yogurt
2 large egg whites
1 tbsp all purpose flour
3/4 cup"Pumpkin butter" ( I found mine at Trader Joe's)

Heat oven to 350°. Line cupcake tin with liners. Place a vanilla wafer at the bottom of each liner.

Gently beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until smooth using an electric mixer.

Gradually add in fat-free yogurt, egg whites and flour. Do not over beat.

Fill cupcake liners about one half full.

Top each with 1 tbsp of the pumpkin butter.

Swirl the pumpkin butter into the cream cheese mixture for a marbling effect.

Bake 30 mins. Cool to room temperature.

Chill in refrigerator and top with fat free whipped cream if desired!

It's Smashing....

2011-11-10T19:52:00.000-08:00

~2 Smashing things to make with Pumpkin Puree~

Pumpkin Pancakes (serves 4)

Prepare 1 cup dry pancake mix according to the packagedirections.

Whisk in 1/3 cup canned pumpkin puree.

Pumpkin Whipped Cream (makes 2 cups)

Beat together 1 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar,

and 1 tablespoon canned pumpkin puree until soft peaks form.

I love pumpkin...especially at this time of year!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

My "Forever" Calendars....

2011-11-07T13:01:00.000-08:00

...are my ..."perpetual calendars" ...

A perpetual calendar (or forever calendar) is a calendar which is

good for a span of many years.

They come in many different styles & designs...

and can be a true work of art!

This one is a Lisa Kaus design!

There is just something lovely & comforting about

the daily routine of a perpetual calendar.

I enjoy moving the markers to their new positions

each morning to mark the new day!

They are much like "old reliable friends"!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

'tis the start of the season...

2011-11-01T18:35:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful surprise to walk into Starbucks today

and be greeted by the "Christmas Cup"!

My first ~Pumpkin Spice Latte~ this year!

A perfect treat on this gorgeous Fall Day!

(by the way...the mini cupcake is one that I baked!)

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

What is your favorite Halloween Candy?

2011-10-31T12:17:00.000-07:00

Mine???

York Peppermint Patties for sure!

I love them any time of year...

but especially the pumpkin and bat versions at Halloween!

And you can use them in many ways too...

Make a little spider...

or top off a cupcake...

Create a monster....

(visit here for instructions)

or add them to brownies....

Yum....

Or do what I do and just eat them from the freezer!

What is your Favorite Halloween Candy?

Happy Halloween,

Carrie

What a Crock!

2011-10-26T18:24:00.000-07:00

Today was a comfort food kind of day.

And what better way to cook comfort food then in my crock pot!

There's just nothing quite better than walking in the door

to the wonderful aroma of a crock pot meal!

And it's so easy....almost no preparation at all!

I put a pork loin roast into the pot, added a half dozen chunky

sliced potatoes, a chopped onion, a bag of fresh mushrooms,

and a can of cream of celery soup.

It magically becomes a delicious, good-for-the soul,

cottage cozy meal.

Add a salad or a scoop of veggies and you are good to go!

DID YOU KNOW.....

Since 1970, the Crock Pot has been making meal preparation so much easier for many of us, but the funny thing is that it was actually a 'what if' byproduct of an earlier invention, the "beanery", intended for use in the cooking of beans.

Soon enough it became clear that the beanery appliance had another potential use: it could be used to cook various types of meat, and what's more, it could do so better than it did with beans. Soon after the modern Crock Pot slow cooker was born!

The first Rival Crock Pot slow cooker was released to the domestic market in 1971.

It came with a basic crock interior, a glass lid, and a bright red exterior.

What do you like to toss into your crock pot?

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

A Sweet Surprise....

2011-10-24T20:46:00.000-07:00

What a pleasure it was to return from my trip to California...

to find this sweet little gift waiting for me!

Thank you for such a warm welcome home...

my sweet friend, Elizabeth @ Creative Breathing!

Your creations are always such a whimsical "delight"!

How lucky to be showered with blessings from afar!

Fondest Wishes,

Carrie

You Can Go Home Again...

2011-10-05T12:01:00.000-07:00

Off to visit family in California today!

Nothing like a dose of Mom & Dad to fill your heart!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Frosting cupcakes the easy way...

2011-09-22T18:40:00.000-07:00

Piping frosting onto cupcakes, instead of simply spreading it on, can really change the look of your desserts.

Making neat little swirls creates a pretty and more professional finished look!

I have all the Wilton decorating tips and bags, etc...

...but the easiest way to pipe on frosting is to use a regular plastic bag.

(even a zip lock)

Just scrape the frosting into the bag with a spatula, twist the bag at the top and snip off the corner.

Happy Icing,

Carrie

A Green Tomato Surprise...

2011-09-20T15:58:00.000-07:00

What can you do with a vine full of green tomatoes that have

no plans of turning red anytime soon?

Here's one idea...
Green Tomato Cake...yup cake...

It is one of our favorites!

It is moist and dense and chewy and delicious! Similar to carrot cake...

I added a cream cheese icing with a touch of pineapple!

Yummy!

Ingredients

4 cups chopped green tomatoes
1 tablespoon salt
1/2 cup butter
2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

Place chopped tomatoes in a bowl and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon salt. Let stand 10 minutes. Place in a colander, rinse with cold water and drain.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs and beat until creamy.
Sift together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, soda and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add raisins and nuts to dry mixture; add dry ingredients to creamed mixture. Dough will be very stiff. Mix well.
Add drained tomatoes and mix well. Pour into the prepared 9 x 13 inch pan.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes in the preheated oven, or until toothpick inserted into cake comes out clean.

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

We remember....

2011-09-11T22:09:00.000-07:00

An original post from September 11, 2009

On September 11, 2001 our nieces' husband, John, was killed in the brutal attack on the World Trade Center and on America. Our family waited for hours and then days, weeks and months for some sign that John had survived the attack, hoping he would be found injured in one of the hospitals or even in the rubble of the buildings. This, of course, would never be. The only thing ever found was his unclaimed car in a nearby parking garage. John, as well as thousands of others are missed terribly, especially today as we honor their memories. Please take a minute to read John's story...

On September 11, 2001 John P. Salamone, a broker in preferred stocks for Cantor Fitzgerald, died in the attacks at the World Trade Center. He worked on the 104th floor of Tower 1. True to his competitive nature, John left his office with a few of his friends and tried valiantly to escape the horror. While he could not defeat the magnitude of the disaster, there is no doubt no one tried harder to get home to his family and children.

John Patrick Salamone was born on January 25, 1964 at Fort Hood, Texas. He grew up in Fairfield, and graduated from West Essex Regional High School where he excelled in the classroom and on the athletic field. At Oglethorpe University in Atlanta he earned a business administration degree and later graduated from Fordham University with an MBA degree. John worked at Shearson Lehman Brothers, Kidder Peabody and Quick and Reilly before moving to Cantor in 1998.

The town of Fairfield was John's home for 26 years. He later moved to West Caldwell and then for three years resided in North Caldwell with his wife and three young, beautiful children. John enjoyed nothing so much as spending time with Alex, Aidan and Anna. Anna thought of her father as "Prince Charming." For all of them he was the light of their lives.

John chose soccer as his sport at an early age and quickly developed his skills. He was a talented soccer player on both the interscholastic and intercollegiate level. He was a three-year letterman at West Essex and is among the school's best all-time players. At Oglethorpe John was captain of the team and was twice named All-District as well as twice selected for the All-South team. In 2002 he was inducted into the Oglethorpe University Sports Hall of Fame. Oglethorpe's long-time soccer coach called John "the finest soccer player I ever coached." In October of 2002 the soccer field was named in his honor. A soccer tournament is held annually at his alma mater to raise funds for the John P. Salamone Endowed Scholarship for students exemplifying his spirit.

No one loved life, family and friends more than John. And that love was reciprocated by the more than one thousand people who came to pay their respects at his memorial services. It was truly a testament to his character. Most of all everyone remembers his amazing sense of humor, his contagious personality and his undaunting character. In any serious situation, he would find the lighter side of it and make you laugh about it. He could hurt you and make you laugh about that, too. He rarely lost at anything and called you "sucker" to remind you. He was always one of the first ones chosen once the real games started. These are only a few of the words to describe him--funny, charming, competitive, athletic, sincere, loving, happy-go lucky, sarcastic, talented, caring. What best sums up who John was is this statement by one of his Oglethorpe friends. " He was the glue to our team and our friendships. Everyone wanted to be around him."

John's athletic accomplishments were many, but his most significant accomplishments were the type of person he was, the way he cared for his fellow man, and the love devotion and loyalty he exhibited to family and friends. We are saddened by having to endure his loss, yet we are grateful for having been enriched by his presence.

For his courage and his determination, for his love and his friendship, we will remember and honor him always in our thoughts, and through the John P. Salamone Memorial Foundation.

John and Mary Ellen's three beautiful children.

Our niece, Mary Ellen and her three children along with her parents, my husband's brother and his wife.

Ground Zero Memorial made by some of the surviving children.

These are the memorial plaques the children made that are a permanent part of the World Trade Center Memorial at Ground Zero.

This one was made by Aiden.
by Alex
...and by Anna.

A special Memorial in Essex County, New Jersey.
To my dear family in New Jersey...you are in our thoughts and prayers today as we, as well as our country, remember all those lost in this terrible tragedy.

We miss you, John.

Carrie

Blackberries... an Oregon treasure

2011-09-02T15:14:00.000-07:00

In late summer here, the blackberries quickly ripen.

Blackberries can be found free for the taking along fences, roadsides, clearings,

and fields throughout much of the Pacific Northwest.

My husband loves to head down the block to harvest these delicious sun-warmed,

juicy berries.

With his bucket now filled.... he returns home and I set out to

make mini blackberry almond tarts!

The scent of summer lingers in the kitchen as the golden treasures bake.

~It is time to enjoy this tasty fruit~

What kind of fruit are you enjoying these last days of summer?

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

All things enamelware...

2011-08-31T11:58:00.000-07:00

It was all things metal this past weekend

as I made the rounds at some local garage sales!

This canister set really caught my eye...

And this enamel pan hasn't a single flaw!

I fell in love with this "French" teapot....

...and this yellow one too!

But finally these metal "Daisy Canisters"

were just pure sunshine!

(Grand Total $7.50)

I am linking with "Vintage Thingie Thursday" today...

Go over and see all the lovely vintage goodies here!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Crepes & Coffee

2011-08-24T10:37:00.000-07:00

Vivace...a wonderful place in Portland
with some French flair...

Savory.....
feta, spring greens,
tomato, walnuts, mozzarella cheese &
creme pesto

...or Sweet,
with whipped creme cheese &
fresh raspberry jam!

...and a coffee treat!
yummy "Stumptown" Coffee

Belle et délicieuse!

(beautiful & delicious)

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

I'm Stuck on This....

2011-08-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

My New Magnetic Knife Holder

It is fabulous...and I love it so much!

It makes preparing meals, baking & cooking even more fun!

And better yet...it was only $8.99 at Ikea!

It doesn't take much to put a smile on my face!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

Some Vintage Kitchen Fun!

2011-08-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Isn't it cool...I just love it!

It's a Salton "Hot Basket" made in 1980!

It looks just like a picnic basket.

And it appears to have never been used....the cord is still wrapped up

with its original twist tie in place.

As the brochure says: A wonderful way to keep everything from apple turnovers

to baked potatoes fresh, hot and delicious!

The "Hot Basket" will keep your dinner rolls serving hot throughout the meal!

Not only will it keep them hot and fresh...

it will even refresh yesterday's baked goods.

After a busy day...pick up some "finger lickin' good" chicken & ribs

and keep them serving hot in the "Hot Basket" until everyone's home for dinner.

The more you use it the more uses you'll find for it!

I am looking forward to making some homemade bread to put inside!

P.S....forgot to say...I bought it for $2.00 at my local thrift store!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

2011-08-15T21:15:00.000-07:00

I was given a bag of small pears the other day...

and as you know...they ripen quickly...

So I made this Fresh Pear Cake!

So moist & tasty...it doesn't need icing!

I made a large sheet cake size!

I sent a plate to my neighbor to says thanks

for a really nice gesture she made over the weekend!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

(go here for the recipe)

Lazy Boy...Retro Style

2011-08-09T17:40:00.000-07:00

My husband has been pinning for a recliner....

But our space is limited and most are rather large and cumbersome...

The moment he saw this turquoise retro beauty at a nearby vintage store...

...he just had to have it!

What do you think? Does it work?

It is in perfect condition...and is very comfortable!

One of our kids said it looked like a "grandpa chair"...another said

"Open your mouth for the dentist"!

A third said that it looked as though it came right out of a hospital room.

But then again my niece, another daughter and a friend of mine loved it...

(at least that's what they said)

I guess its a matter of preference....

So tell me...I can take it...what do you think???

Staying Cozy,

Carrie

Our Potted Garden...

2011-08-01T21:10:00.000-07:00

Because of our rather "unexpected" downsizing last year...

all of my veggie gardening has to be done in pots on our deck.

But it works...

Come let me show you...

We have Yellow Squash & Green Zucchini,

Blueberries,

Tomatoes,

and Herbs.

There's room for Succulents,

Roses,

and a "Hot Tub" too!

We may have gotten "smaller"...

But we are truly blessed!

Staying Cozy,

Carrie

The Final Day In: The Life (& death) of a Giant Zucchini

2011-07-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

Zucchini - Basil Pesto

Fresh...fresh...fresh!

This pesto turned out just wonderful!

I can't really give you a recipe...because much of my creating is not

an exact science!

I used my last 2 cups or so of shredded zucchini...added some basil from the garden,

walnuts, plain non-fat yogurt, a little cottage cheese, olive oil and spices!

It is a yummy spread or dip!

(By the way when I say "garden" all of my gardening is done in containers on a small patio!)

I will share photos of my garden soon...

Well there you have it...my zucchini is gone....
I hope you have enjoyed my recipes and perhaps it has inspired you to
get creative with your zucchini bounty too...
or maybe even a zucchini that may be dropped off on your door step!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Day 6: A day in the life (& death) of a Giant Zucchini

2011-07-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

Double Chocolate Zucchini Brownies

Wow...day six...one more day to go...

I cheated a little today...

I used a boxed brownie mix...but instead of the usual oil,

I substituted 1/2 cup non-fat plain yogurt and 1/2 cup finely shredded zucchini!

They come out so dense and wonderful...and a bit more healthy too.

I also added chocolate chips to the top prior to baking!

These wonderful bites of chocolatey goodness won't last long!

I have two *special little visitors in the house

that will help gobble them up!

*my grand-niece & nephew have moved here with their mom from California!

My Giant Zucchini is almost gone...one more recipe for tomorrow!

See you then :)

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Day 5: a day in the life (& death of a GIANT zucchini)

2011-07-18T15:47:00.000-07:00

Spinach Zucchini Lemon Dill Salad

Because my zucchini is so large...

I cute about 5" off the end and quartered it before thinly slicing.

I added lemon zest and the juice from 2 lemons.

I also chopped some fresh dill from my garden...

and added some tomatoes.

Some olive oil and vinegar...and pepper too!

I found these wonderful "Kohn" cruets recently...they work so well...

...no drips at all...

They twist several times to change the size of the opening.

(T.J. Maxx $5.99 ea.)

Let this salad marinate a bit before serving...

it is fresh & wonderful....

There is still more to come...that Giant Zucchini just won't die!

See you tomorrow!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

Day 4: A day in the life (& death) of a Giant Zucchini!

2011-07-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Baked Zucchini Parmesan Rings

These are easy...just slice the zucchini, drizzle with olive oil,

sprinkle with parmesan cheese and season as desired.
I used a orange/lemon/pepper zest & seasoning salt.

Bake at 375 degrees for about 15-20 mins.
Voila! Yummy & Healthy!

Are you sick of zucchini yet...there is still more to come!
See you for Day 5!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

Day 3: A day in the Life (&death) of a Giant Zucchini

2011-07-15T12:27:00.000-07:00

Zucchini Banana Muffins

I just had to make this zucchini staple...

(makes 12 large muffins + 12 mini muffins)

1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1 cup reg. flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
½ cup canola oil
1/2 cup non-fat plain yogurt
1 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs (or egg substitute)
2 1/2 cups grated zucchini
1 cup mashed banana (2 med bananas)
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts (Optional)

Preheat oven to 350°.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Beat with electric mixer: egg, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla. Stir in zucchini and banana. Add dry ingredients into wet ingredients. Careful not to over mix. Scoop batter into 12 lg. paper-lined muffin cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Then scoop remainder of batter into mini muffin cups (12) and bake for approx. 12-15 mins.

Come back and join us for Day #4!

I still have 1/2 of the zucchini left!

Hmmm...what will it be?

Stay Cozy, Carrie

The Life (&death) of a Giant Zucchini: Day 2

2011-07-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

Zucchini Pancakes

Simple & Delicious!

Shred zucchini (skin & all) about 1 1/2 cups.

I used my food processor

Add these ingredients to the shredded zucchini.

1 rice cake or other low fat cracker (finely crumbled)

1 egg or 1/4 c. egg substitute

1 tbl. parmesan cheese (dried or fresh)

1/2 tea. lemon pepper

1 tbl. non-fat plain yogurt for topping.

Mix the ingredients (except the yogurt)

Spoon into pan coated with canola or olive oil spray

...to form two large pancakes.

Saute on a med. heat for approx. 5 mins each side.

...resist the urge to flip prematurely or they may fall part.

Serve with some non-fat plain yogurt and enjoy!

They are really yummy...healthy and low in fat & calories!

See you tomorrow for Day 3!

...remember it's a "GIANT" zucchini!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

A day in the life (& death) of a "giant" zucchini?

2011-07-12T12:50:00.000-07:00

Day One:

Zucchini Burger Sandwich

Cut the large end of the zucchini for the amount of servings needed.

Create 1 inch slices and place in fry pan with olive oil.

Saute until tender...sprinkling with your favorite spices!

Serve on Toasted Whole Grain Bread
...adding condiments as desired...
(the zucchini is the "star"... the "meat")

I like sliced tomatoes, fresh basil pesto,
lettuce & onions
You can forget the cheese and you will really cut the calories!

Come back for "Day 2" tomorrow!

After all...this is one GIANT zucchini!

I am linking up with "Night Owl Crafting" today for her "Hoo are You" #47!

Leslie has a list of different questions to answer...
so we can all get to know each other better!

The question that I am answering is:

3. What types of food do you tend to eat more of in the summer?

Can you guess? More fruits and vegetables...like zucchini of course!
How about you?

Stay Cozy, Carrie

Guilt Free - Chocolate Day!

2011-07-07T18:59:00.000-07:00

July 7th is Chocolate Day!

It's the perfect opportunity to eat you favorite chocolates...
...in ample portions of course.

Do you really need another excuse to indulge with your favorite food treat?

Try this...for a "guilt free" chocolate treat...

At only 60 calories and 2.5 g of fat this is a great way to enjoy chocolate...

You just have to "doll it up" a bit...

I took a knife around the edges...flipped it over on to a pretty plate...

...added a little whipped cream and some mini-chocolate chips!

Ahh...so indulgent...and maybe only 100 calories tops!

I don't need to tell you what to do to celebrate this day, do I?

Eat a little Chocolate!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Heaven's Doors...

2011-07-06T21:46:00.000-07:00

God is the greatest artist
To whom no one can compare.

♥ I took this picture from our balcony at the Oregon Coast.

It looked like the doors of heaven shining down ♥

stay cozy,

Carrie

Street Fair Season...

2011-07-01T13:19:00.000-07:00

Had a nice night at the Alberta Street Last Thursday Faire....

Here are some of the sights...

That's Portland for you...

After all... the new motto is...

"Keep Portland Weird"

♥

Carrie

Bra-Vo!

2011-06-28T18:37:00.000-07:00

A Friend Is Like A Good Bra...

...hard to find,
...supportive,
...comfortable,
...always lifts you up,
...never lets you down or leaves you hanging,
...and is always close to your heart!

How is your bra fitting these days....does it need a little tightening or loosening?

Do you need to add some pizzaz...some bling?

Have you let it get too neglected...or just taken it for granted?

Take some time to give your bra and your friends some TLC...

Upon a little examining you may notice a bit of fraying around the edges, a small hole or two.

You might even discover that a new style has been long overdue.

Remember...your bra and your friend can benefit from a little "lift" now & then!

Stay Cozy & "Uplifted",

Carrie

Hair today...gone tomorrow...

2011-06-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

My hair grows really fast...and before I knew it...I had "long" hair...

So what does a girl do???

She cuts it........so fickle!

Good thing my daughter is a hairdresser!

Wishing you a "good" hair day,

Carrie

A Purse Score!

2011-06-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

Browsed some Friday garage sales
....and I scored these two bags!

A red patent leather "Perlina" and a black suede "Maxx"
For a grand total of $2!
Score...

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

A 1930's cupcake...

2011-06-02T08:48:00.000-07:00

Cupcakes may indeed be the "craze"...but of course they have been around forever...

Here is a simple cupcake from an O'Keefe & Merritt Cookbook from 1937!

Complete with advice for the housewife suffering from

"kitchen fog"!

Cupcakes

Sift 2 cups flour, 2 tsps. baking powder and 1/2 tea. salt. Cream 1 cup sugar and 2 eggs.

Add 1 cup cream or sour cream and the flour mixture and blend until very light and fluffy!

Bake at 375 degrees for 20 - 30 mins. Makes about 18 cupcakes.

Nothing fancy...just a simple cupcake from the past!

Imagine having this brand new spangled oven back then!

With all the latest "bells & whistles"?

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Back to the Gym!

2011-05-24T18:49:00.000-07:00

I renewed my membership at the gym....

today was my first day back.

Ready to get back in shape!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Fruity Cuties...

2011-05-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

Felt creations have been around forever...

Look at these vintage cuties...

Each tiny fruit was hand stitched and included a magnet on the back!

Aren't they funny?

I found them tucked inside a 1940's

vintage sewing tin

I came across!

4.5 point Weight Watchers dinner...

2011-05-17T09:10:00.000-07:00

Shrimp Fajita Tacos....

very light, super healthy and terrifically yummy!

A simple olive oil stir fry of

thinly sliced green peppers,

matchstick cut carrots,

chopped onions and white corn.

Add some frozen peeled shrimp and some Shiraz sauce for spice...and there you have it!

Fajita shrimp tacos on soft corn tortillas!

You will never miss the cheese!

Finely shredded cabbage and fresh lemon tops it off!

Although I am not on the points plan I calculated this dinner to help anyone

out there keeping track!

Perhaps you will add this recipe to your repertoire!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Fluffy Yogurt Scones

2011-05-14T12:43:00.000-07:00

A basket for a friend filled with fluffy cranberry scones.
Ready to eat with...a small jar of berry jam, a spoon & a knife.

Light and Delicious!

They were a hit!

Preheat Oven to 425 degrees.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Sift together 2 cups all purpose flour, 2 tea. baking powder, 1/4 tea. salt and 2 tbl. sugar.
Place in a food processor or mixer.

Add 1/4 cup butter and mix until you have coarse crumbs.

Turn into a bowl and stir in a 1/2 cup dried cranberries.

Make a well and add 3/4 cup plain yogurt and mix just til moistened.

Turn onto a floured board and knead gently for 30 secs.

Form dough to about 2 inches thick and cut into 10-12 rounds with a cookie cutter.

Place the scones on to the baking sheet and brush the tops with yogurt.

Sprinkle with sugar and bake for 12-15 mins. until lightly brown on top.

Cool and eat or freeze up to 3 months.

Grab Bags...

2011-05-13T11:22:00.000-07:00

Remember when you could go to the "Five & Dime" Store

and buy a "grab bag" for .25 cents?

It was all about the "unknown"!

You were just certain you would end up with a fabulous treasure!

It was so much fun to see what was inside....

but even more fun was the exhilarating anticipation before the bag was even opened!

Oh I know...most of the time the prize itself was kinda dumb and chintzy...

but the surprise made it all worth it.

Well as an adult I find "grab bags" at my Thrift Store too....

In this case the partial view through the plastic bag was just enough to be tempting....

enabling me to see some of its contents...

....but not quite everything...

Most times, I am thrilled by the hidden booty!

Getting home and dumping out the bag is just as much fun

as it was when I was a kid!

Here is a bag I recently purchased for only two dollars!

I could see that it was filled with lots of sequins and trims...

But how much and what kinds?

I'll be right back....

I'm gonna go check out what's inside...

Wow...it's a "jackpot" of trims!

...sequins and beads...

... feathers and tassels...

I'm gonna have to list most of this in my ebay and etsy stores!

Stay Cozy & Find a Grab Bag Today,

Carrie

The Cadillac of Cutting Boards...

2011-05-09T09:32:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when I found this at the thrift store.

Yes...I said the thrift store....yet it was brand new!

Take a look at this wonderful addition to my kitchen counter!

It's the original index-style chopping board set from Joseph Joseph

It has four color-coded chopping boards with non-slip feet

on both sides and index-style tabs.

And it retails for $65.00!

I guess they would be a bit surprised to know that I bought it

for only $2.99....but it got me to go over and visit their website....

...where they have some really cool contemporary kitchen products.

I just love new kitchen gadgets...

and with this one I scored "big time"!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Mother's Day (pillowcase) ApronTutorial

2011-05-05T07:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick & easy gift you can whip up for your mom or a friend!

Start with a standard size pillowcase...

(I used a flannel one this time)

Lay down the pillowcase and fold up the bottom of the shorter side about 7".

Then, flip the pillowcase over and fold up another 7" segment...

...creating three layers.

Stitch around the two sides and the bottom going through all three layers.

Now mark the center of the apron from the bottom to the top of the

newly made pocket section and stitch up this line...again going through

all three layers.

This will create the two pockets.

Choose a trim or ribbon for the tie and cut a 2 yd. piece.

Center the trim and sew it to the top edge of the apron.

And there you have your apron!

Easy Peasy!

I added a couple of buttons to the front of the pockets....

But you can embellish it however you would like.

I was reminded of this wonderful apron idea at Betz White where
she has some fabulous craft ideas and tutorials!
My mom used to make these aprons years ago too!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

QUILTING...Piece by Peace

2011-05-04T11:13:00.000-07:00

A "quilt top" finished....

...patchwork hearts

...and prairie points...

...but now the real work begins...

Piecing the top of a quilt is very peaceful for me...

the sound of the machine, guiding the fabric under the needle, the repetitive motions, the time alone to think and ponder....but when the top is completed...well that is when the work really starts for me.

Does somebody want to help me sandwich, quilt and bind this beauty?

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Hidden Craft Room Space....

2011-04-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

Just when you think you have run out of room

for storage in your craft room...

...there's always the back of the door!

Just grab one of these wire racks from "Home Depot"

and you've got tons more space!

I've got one on my pantry door too!

...see you've got more room than you think...

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Brownie Pops

2011-04-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

This years Easter Basket treats for my family....

Bake brownies according to package directions in an 8 X 8 pan

so they will be thicker.

When finished baking, cool just to the touch...

then scoop out some of the baked brownie while still warm

and form into balls.

Place in fridge to completely cool...

then poke with a lollipop stick, dip in melted chocolate and sprinkle as desired!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

J'aime la cuisine française

2011-04-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

I went to a fun & free Cooking demo given by a local French trained chef here in Portland!

It was put on by "Mix" magazine

Chef Louisa Neumann

It was a demonstration of a handful of fresh summer dishes.

And we were able to taste each dish as it went along....

Here a few of my favorites...

Open-Face Radish Sandwiches
(I was surprised at how much I liked this one!)

Summer Vegetable Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce

Tomato and Cucumber Panzanella Salad

What a fun afternoon...

Be on the lookout for these kind of free events in your area.

This was sponsored by our local Standard Appliance Store.

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Funfetti Fun...

2011-04-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

My daughter wanted us to make "Funfetti" cupcakes to welcome

her two little cousins who just arrived in town for Easter!

When she discovered that we didn't have any Funfetti cake mix in the pantry...

I told her..."No worries...we can make them from scratch"

"We can?", she asked....quite surprised!

"Of Course!"

And here they are!

And they taste so much better than from a box...

Preheat Oven to 350 degrees

Cream 1 stick butter and 1 1/4 c. sugar. Beat in 2 eggs and 8 oz. plain
yogurt for 1 minute. Add 2 c. flour and 1 tea. baking soda into the creamed
mixture until moist. Add 1 tsp. vanilla and 1 tsp. lemon juice.
Fold in approx. 1/4 c. sprinkles.
Bake 18-21 mins.

My Recipe for frosting changes according to what I have on hand.
This time I used 8 oz. cream cheese, 1/3 c. sour cream, 1/4 c. plain yogurt,
about 2 tsp. lemon juice and 1/2 tsp. vanilla.
Slowly add enough powdered sugar until desired consistency!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

{A Little Late Night Baking}

2011-04-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

♥ A simple Apple Cake to tame your "sweet tooth" ♥

...and this hit the spot without being too sweet...

Mix together 1 c. plain flour, 1/2 tsp. baking powder, 1/4 tsp. baking soda and 1/4 tsp. salt and set aside.

In bowl of mixer, whisk together 2 eggs and 1/2 c. sugar, then add 1/3 c canola oil and blend that in.

Add the dry ingredients just to mix. Add 1 c. thinly sliced apple (about one apple) and 1/2 c. walnuts.

Stir into the mix. Pour mixture into a greased square or round baking dish.

Bake at 350• for about 30-35 mins.

Enjoy!

{See Carrie Shop}

2011-04-12T07:30:00.000-07:00

At her local Goodwill Stop...

with a budget of $20... tops!

A pricey professional cake stand she has been eying for quite some time..

Today only $4.99

Add these 4 cobalt blue egg coddlers to the cart...

A collectible Kool-aid pitcher and cups.

This golden embossed vintage jewelry treasure box...

A lunchbox filled with William Sonoma A-Z Cookie Cutters!

Two darling Baby Shower Cake Toppers!

A bag filled with these glass & glitter birds!

Some little "ducky" candle holders!

A great "new" Starbucks to-go coffee urn.

And a fabulous vintage pie plate with a rotating remover!

and the total is...$19.22!

♥ Such a deal ♥

{Beckoning Spring}

2011-04-07T11:49:00.000-07:00

I couldn't find a springtime wreath that I liked...

so I created this one.

The little fuzzy chicks can be easily removed when Easter is over!

Now all we need is some sunshine!
Hurry up, Spring...we're ready!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

Simple Crockpot Cooking

2011-04-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

I just love my crockpot...nothing fancy....I've had it for years....

Just fill it up, set it for high or low and let it do its job!

This morning at 8:30am before I left for Bible Study

I put in a 3 1/2 lb. Boneless Beef Chuck Roast...

added three apples sliced (skin and all)

one large red onion sliced

Sprinkled some "Johnny's Seasoning Salt" and "Lemon-Pepper"

and poured in a 1/2 can of chicken broth...

And when I came in the door at 1:30...

I was greeted by an awesome aroma...

and this...

The combination of the apples & the onions is SO tasty!

And if you are watching your carbs...

it is great alone (no rice or potatoes needed)

My daughter and her friend get home from school soon

and they will be hungry...

I have already had a bowl full...

Hope it lasts 'til dinner time!

I am participating in the...

Heart of the Home Party here at Note Songs
Favorite Kitchen Cupboard
So Many fantastic ideas!!

Click here to see my favorite kitchen cupboard !

Stay Cozy, Carrie

Sweet Lollies

2011-04-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

...Pretty pastel eggs with Easter shapes...

sweet little lollies to celebrate...

Target $1.99/bag

Congratulations to Chanda from

"Front Porches-Sweet Tea & Old Aprons"

She is the winner of my giveaway!

Thanks to everyone for joining in on the fun!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

Merry Merry Christmas...april fools!

2011-04-01T16:17:00.000-07:00

My "Scottie Dog" giveaway will be announced tomorrow...

Hope I made you giggle!

♥I have fun on April Fool's Day...
just ask my family♥

Only 3 more days....

2011-03-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

Until my "scottie dog" Giveaway!

Join the fun today!

{Vintage School Card Fun}

2011-03-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

Vintage Flash Cards are so fun to use for

"altered art" & scrapbook projects!

Don't pass them up this Garage Sale Season!

Little Black Dress Kit Club

Zunky Chic

My Sparrow

Stay Cozy & Create,

Carrie

A Loyal Friend

2011-03-24T15:30:00.000-07:00

It looks like I am hooked on little "Scotties" lately!

After making my polka-dot Scottie plush for my giveaway....

I made this primitive tea-dyed Scottie-Dog embroidered wall hanging too!

They are just so cute!

I just added this to my etsy shop CottageCozyBoutique!

The Scottish Terrier is a lot of personality in a little body: brave, curious, feisty, and opinionated.

He's the only breed to live in the White House three times.

A dog who will want to watch TV with you and sleep in your bed!

Please visit my giveaway post to be a part of the fun!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

It's Rednesday....

2011-03-23T12:07:00.000-07:00

My Springtime Gift
Don't miss out on my Giveaway!

Little Scottie is ready to come to your home!

And the color "red" just had to be part of it.

I ♥ Red!

Link here to view my Giveaway Post and join the fun!

Then pop on over and visit It's a Very Cherry World

for some more "Rednesday" goodness!

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

A Giveaway for You!

2011-03-21T16:16:00.000-07:00

My Springtime Gift

In honor of my sweet little "best friend" puppy, Pearl,
I have put together a doggone fun giveaway for you all.
I found some great fabric to make this cute standard size pillow case.
Then using a cotton kitchen towel, I handcrafted a little "Scottie Dog" soft sculpture.
I couldn't resist adding these Mary Engelbreit notecards too!

Thanks so much for including my blog in your

list of blogs that you enjoy following!

This giveaway is for all the wonderful bloggers that have been followers here already...

and anyone that might choose to add this blog to their "follower" list today!

leave a comment telling us all about your favorite dog or pet!

I will choose a winner on March 31st!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

Fun Vintage Finds

2011-03-19T11:43:00.000-07:00

Mod '60's Paper Mache Eggs (Great for Easter!)

A Fabulous Red Leather Jewelry Box

A Pink Melamine Sugar & Creamer Set

Two Vintage "Poseables"

These have all been listed in either my ETSY or EBAY shops!

Stay Cozy, Carrie

{Spring Inspirations}

2011-03-18T06:30:00.000-07:00

I have had the urge to create some

Spring & Easter decorations in my studio!

I have added them to my etsy shop...Cottage Cozy Boutique!

After all Spring has almost sprung!

{Irish Wishes}

2011-03-17T10:24:00.000-07:00

♣ Happy St Patrick's Day...my friends! ♣

Stay "pinch proof"... don't forget to wear green!

Cupcakes courtesy of Myldred!

2011-03-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

A Carrot-Walnut-Raisin Recipe from my new kindred spirit....Myldred.

See This Post for the story!

INGREDIENTS

1 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup oil

1 (8-oz.) can crushed pineapple in unsweetened juice, undrained

1 egg

1 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup raisins

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

DIRECTIONS

Heat oven to 375°F. Grease bottoms only of 16 muffin cups or line with paper baking cups. In large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; mix well.
In small bowl, combine oil, pineapple and egg; blend well. Add to flour mixture; stir just until dry ingredients are moistened. Stir in carrots, raisins and walnuts. Fill greased muffin cups 3/4 full.
Bake at 375°F. for 18 to 22 minutes or until muffins are light brown and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes; remove from pan.
I added a cream cheese frosting!

Thanks...Millie!

An Easter Nest

2011-03-12T13:16:00.000-08:00

I just completed this "Spring Fever" Easter piece!

The yellow and green combination just sung to me.

The rustic nest is a perfect spot to hold a candle...

while a sweet little bird keeps watch close by...

This whimsical creation was added to my ETSY shop offerings today!

☼ Spring is in the air ☼

{I struck gold}

2011-03-10T16:48:00.000-08:00

I just love this "jewel" I found on my recent trip to my

Goodwill Store...

It's an antique accordian file filled with delightful recipes!

There are wonderful old booklets...dating back to 1913!

Handwritten recipes on cards, envelope flaps....etc.

from the 1930's 40's and 50's!

One of the recipes was written on a sheet of personal stationary...

could these recipes all have belonged to Myldred?

Through vital records I discovered that she was born in 1897

and died in 1984 at the age of 87!

She lived close to where my daughter lives now!

More vintage recipes she had collected were found

under the lids of Spry shortening containers...

Many of her recipes were cut out from

newspapers and magazines!

What made her choose each one?

She even started this list of the hit radio songs of the day

from the Chesterfield Cigarette Radio Show 1944!

I just love looking through this treasure chest of memories and recipes...

glimpsing into bygone days....

What was Myldred thinking as she chose her favorites and cooked for her family?

Did she have the same concerns, hopes and dreams as we do today!

I feel honored to hold each piece in my hand admiring her hand writing

and reading her suggestions and instructions!

I can't wait to get starting cooking & baking

from this wonderful collection!

Thanks, Myldred

{Hello Spring}

2011-03-05T16:44:00.000-08:00

It never ceases to amaze me how Spring always seems to find a way

to push itself up through the Winter....just like this sweet little heliotrope on my patio

Lesson learned....

We too can push our way through our many obstacles...

No matter how difficult and cold they may seem!

My Irish Banner...

2011-03-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

My "Irish Kisses" Banner is for sale HERE in my Etsy Shop...

I made two... one for me and one for you!

I will ship it out right away so you can decorate for the "Green"!

Irish and Cozy, Carrie

{Irish Kisses}

2011-03-02T13:59:00.000-08:00

I just finished this "St Patrick's Day" Banner!

"Irish Kisses"

There is a lot of Irish blood in this house!

Gotta celebrate the "Green"!

{I ♥ Snow}

2011-02-24T10:56:00.000-08:00

We haven't had snow since Thanksgiving....

until this morning!

Late February Snow!

The sun came out and it began to melt all too soon...

but it was still a "no school" Snow Day!

Snow showers expected throughout the day and then...

only 18 degrees tonight!

Brrrrr.....

Staying Warm & Cozy,

Carrie

{Some Fun Baking Pans}

2011-02-22T16:26:00.000-08:00

I found these wonderful baking pans at

my local Goodwill....they were only $3.99!

I have been having fun trying them out

making mini meat loaves,

cake and chocolate chip

brownies.

These pans are perfect

for brownie

"edge" lovers!

Greek Mini Meatloaf

1 1/2-1 3/4 pounds Lean Ground Beef
1/4 cup Italian Style Dry Breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Milk
2 oz. Tomato Basil Feta Cheese, crumbled
2 Eggs, beaten
1 Yellow Onion, diced
3 Green Onions, diced
2 cloves Garlic, diced
3 oz. Carrot, shredded
1 teaspoon salt & pepper & oregano

Saute onions till golden. Add garlic cook 1 minute. Set aside to cool. Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 1 minute. Beat eggs. Add eggs and soaked breadcrumbs to ground beef. Add cooled veggies, carrots, seasonings, cheese. Mix till combined. Divide into 8 equal mounds.

Bake for 45 minutes in a 350 oven.

Banana Cake

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about two; 12 oz. total)
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
ginger
ground cloves

1. In a large bowl, mix eggs, sugar, sour cream, bananas, and vanilla until well blended. In another bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Stir flour mixture into banana mixture just until well blended. Scrape batter into a buttered and floured pan.

2. Bake in a 350° regular or convection oven until top springs back when gently pressed and a skewer inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs attached, 30 to 35 minutes.

Stay Cozy,

Carrie

{Grab what you have Soup}

2011-02-16T12:11:00.000-08:00

I'm the kind of cook that doesn't have to measure everything or follow a recipe...

Many days I simply use what I have on hand when

creating a new dish or meal.

Hence...This Yummy Soup I made last night....

The ingredients I found were:

1 bag of frozen peas

a partial bag of frozen edamame

1 can of spinach

a package of soft tofu

1/2 onion chopped

salt & pepper

citrus seasoning

some sweet chili sauce

1 can of fat free chicken broth

1/2 cup non-fat milk

I put the first 8 ingredients in one of my favorite tools ever:

My Kitchen Aid Food Processor...and pureed them!

Then I emptied it into a pan on the stove and added the broth and milk

and let it simmer for about 20 mins!

A dallop of sour cream and some fresh chopped scallions

finished it off!

And so good for you!

Stay Cozy & Healthy, Carrie

Cottage Cozy

~~A Pink Toy for Me~~

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