Buffalo Chicken Shake- 30 Rock's drink

(I actually found the shake on Pinterest) 

Have you ever had a Buffalo Chicken Shake? Please say, "no!"

Really, if you are craving one you have to try the recipe. I think that I will stick to my Buffalo Chicken Dip  or Buffalo Chicken Sandwich .

Check out the video with 30 Rock's Buffalo Chicken Shake. I've  never watched 30 Rock but I'm wondering if they always have crazy food ideas on the show. If you watch it, let me know!

Teen Driver Safety- Top 5 things in an Emergency

Teen Driver Safety: Top Five Things to Remember if Your Vehicle Breaks Down

AutoMD.com offers teen drivers roadside safety tips during National Youth Traffic Safety Month

Carson, CA – May 17, 2012 – May is National Youth Traffic Safety Month, and with an average of 45 youths lost every summer weekend in motor vehicle crashes(1) AutoMD.com is providing teen drivers with important tips to stay safe both on and off the road if they encounter a breakdown.

“According to parents, a majority of teen drivers(2) are relatively ‘clueless’ about general auto repair and vehicle maintenance, including the simple task of filling the gas tank. We suspect that because teen drivers have limited experience on the road, they may also be ‘clueless’ on what to do and how to stay safe on the roadside if their car breaks down,” said Brian Hafer, VP of Marketing for AutoMD.com. “Our Teen Auto Repair and Maintenance Guide not only includes important tips on vehicle repair and maintenance, but also offers advice on what to do in the event of a break down while driving, and how to stay safe while they are on the side of the road.”

Top Five Things to Remember if Your Vehicle Breaks Down*

1.  Get your car off the road – If your car stops running properly, and if you can, move your vehicle to the right-hand side of the roadway as soon as possible. Avoid stopping your car in an active traffic lane. Once you have moved your car safely to the side of the road, apply your parking brake and turn your steering wheel in the opposite direction of the road so your vehicle doesn’t accidentally roll into traffic.

2.  Call for help – Make sure to have a working cell phone in your possession at all times, in case of an emergency. Have emergency assistance / roadside assistance numbers handy if your insurance provides it, or if you belong to AAA. AutoMD Mobile also offers auto repair info on-the-go, giving stranded drivers clues to diagnose their problem, and helps them find a local repair shop. And, like every good boy or girl scout, always be prepared – carry items such as flashlights, flares or hazard triangles, a first aid kit and blankets in your car – in case of a roadside breakdown.

3.  Alert others with lights and signals – Remember to immediately turn on your emergency flashers to signal a problem. Once stopped, if it is safe to exit the vehicle, use flares or hazard triangles to alert other motorists of a problem and place the flare or triangle approximately 50 feet behind your car to give other motorists adequate notice. Also, raise your car hood or tie a white cloth to your door handle as a signal for police help or assistance from passersby.

4.  Stay in your car unless it is absolutely unsafe to do so – It is best to stay in your car while waiting for help to arrive if your car is safely out of traffic. Stay inside the vehicle with your doors locked and your seatbelt fastened. Getting out of your car, even when parked along the roadside makes you a pedestrian and the roadway is no place for a pedestrian. According to a government report(3), 4,000 pedestrians are struck and killed each year, and about 700 of those pedestrians are people working in the roadway. Exercise caution when accepting help from strangers. If you are suspicious, don’t open your door. Instead, lower your window enough to talk and let them know help is on the way, or to ask them to make a phone call for you. If you absolutely must exit the car, use the door on the opposite side of the roadway, remember to NEVER step into the road, and always look out for traffic and moving cars around you.

5.  Tire trouble – If you have a flat tire or a tire blowout, pull onto a flat area if possible so that a car jack can be used safely and properly. If you have never changed a flat tire, do not attempt to try it for the first time when you are pulled over on the side of the road. AutoMD.com’s Teen Driver Car Maintenance and Repair Guide offers step-by-step instruction on how to change a flat tire, as well as other basic vehicle maintenance and repair instructions. Practice these repairs in advance with a parent or other responsible adult. Also, it is a good idea to carry tools in the event of an emergency, such as a jack, wrenches, screwdrivers, and be sure you have a properly inflated spare tire in your car – you might be surprised to learn that many automakers are not providing a spare tire in new vehicles(3).


AutoMD.com says that understanding the fundamentals of car repair knowledge is just as (if not more!) important for the safety of teen drivers as for the general population, which is why the company developed a car repair educational resource specifically for teens. Features of the guide include:

1)      A vehicle diagram and glossary to help teens identify key components of a car
2)      A Do-It-Yourself (DIY) vehicle maintenance checklist
3)      DIY vehicle repair instructions for basic maintenance/repair jobs
4)      A list of car maintenance and repair "Tips and Tricks"
5)      Car repair safety information
6)      Roadside safety tips
7)      A car maintenance quiz
8)      A Certificate of Commitment

To access the AutoMD.com Teen Driver Car Maintenance and Repair Guide, visit: www.automd.com/teen/.


* By using the AutoMD.Com Web site, accessing or utilizing the information and advice contained therein (including the Teen Driver Car Maintenance and Repair Guide), you agree to be bound by the Terms of Use(http://www.automd.com/default/tos/). The information and advice provided on the AutoMD.com Web site and the information in this press release is general and intended to be a starting point to gather information about auto repair and maintenance. You should not rely solely on such information as it may not be suitable for your particular automobile or situation. You acknowledge and agree that it is your sole responsibility to conduct an independent evaluation and otherwise verify the accuracy, suitability, and applicability of the information and advice for your situation, circumstances and purposes before relying or acting upon such advice. NO ADVICE OR INFORMATION OBTAINED BY YOU FROM AUTOMD.COM SHALL CREATE ANY WARRANTY NOT EXPRESSLY STATED IN THE TERMS OF USE.


This is a guest article.

Take a Bite Out of Dental Emergencies

How To Get Your Teeth Travel-Ready  Dr. Michael Tischler Takes a Bite Out of Dental Emergencies this Summer

www.tischlerdental.com

When you're browsing through travel Web sites, dental care probably isn't the first thing on your mind. It will be, though, if you end up with tooth pain that keeps you from enjoying the vacation you spent all that time and money arranging.  A painful toothache or other dental emergency far from home and your regular dentist can be a traveler’s nightmare. 

“Dental problems can ruin a vacation fast,” says Dr. Michael Tischler, listed as one of America's Top Dentists by the Consumer Research Council and co-founder of Tischler Dental in Woodstock, New York.  “Any dental emergency like an injury to the teeth or gums can be potentially serious and should not be ignored. Ignoring a dental problem can increase the risk of permanent damage as well as the need for more extensive and expensive treatment later on.” Fortunately, Dr. Tischler says there are a number of things you can do to make sure that doesn't happen.

Know Before You Go. Before you leave, get a routine check-up and have your teeth cleaned. If you're planning on flying within a few days after a dentist appointment, let your dentist know so they don't perform any procedures that could make your teeth sensitive to air pressure changes.

Toothaches. Toothaches can range from a distressing inconvenience to an intense, miserable experience. Severe, emergency dental pain may be as unrelenting as kidney stones or even labor contractions. Fortunately, the chance of an unforeseen dental crisis can usually be prevented by early detection and treatment of dental disease. When dental disaster does strike, (and it always seems to be at the most inopportune time) knowing how to alleviate the pain is invaluable information everyone can use.  

A toothache is any pain or soreness within or around a tooth, indicating inflammation and possible infection. Generally, a toothache occurs if tooth decay is very close to or has penetrated the pulp chamber that contains nerves and tiny blood vessels. Ideally, it’s best to undergo dental treatment at once.

According to Dr. Tischler, first, thoroughly rinse your mouth with warm water. Use dental floss to remove any lodged food. If your mouth is swollen, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek.  There are many over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers to cure toothaches that you can choose from. Most common are paracetamol, aspirin, and acetaminophen. If you feel that a small swelling has occurred, you may take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) for their inflammatory components, like ibuprofen, (Advil, Aleve) and mefenamic acid. However, those with a history of ulcers as well as pregnant women need a doctor's recommendation before taking NSAID and aspirin.  “Rubbing aspirin on your gums to numb an aching tooth isn't a good idea. In fact, it'll do more harm than good,” says Dr.  Tischler. He adds, “Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which can burn and damage gum tissue. For general pain relief, it's a better idea to simply swallow the aspirin. Or stop by a pharmacy for pain-relieving gels like Anbesol or Orajel.” 

Other home remedies for a toothache include rinsing your mouth with salt water or dabbing some clove oil directly on the bad tooth. Clove oil has bacteria-slaying properties, along with a remarkable numbing effect. “We've used clove oil in dentistry for years,” says Dr. Tischler.  “Years ago, we would dab clove oil over a tooth before putting a filling in it, but now we have better ways of decreasing the sensitivity.”

For another home remedy, there is numbing power in cooled peppermint tea. Swish, and then swallow if you like the flavor.  “People can try putting some ice on the area, but the temperature of the ice could send them over the edge,” cautions Dr. Tischler.  “Most challenging are toothaches that stem from inside a tooth,” he adds. But in cases where a lost filling or a broken tooth is causing the pain, "caulking" the sore tooth with softened chewing gum can ease the pain - covering the sensitive area until it can be repaired. 

Chipped or Broken Teeth. Save any pieces. Rinse the mouth using warm water; rinse any broken pieces. If there's bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth, cheek, or lip near the broken/chipped tooth to keep any swelling down and relieve pain.

Canker Sores. Dr. Tischler also receives frequent complaints about canker sores. He suggests that people with frequent canker sores check to see if their toothpaste contains sodium lauryl sulfate, or SLS. SLS is a foaming agent that in some studies has been linked to the development of canker sores. “Toothpaste that doesn't contain SLS usually makes a big deal about it by saying 'SLS free' on its label,” says Dr.  Tischler. 

An additional remedy for both canker sores and gum pain is tea tree oil. Tea tree oil should be applied directly to the infected site and can even be purchased in mouthwash form to soothe inflammation.  Another preventive measure for canker sores is to avoid eating chips and other jagged foods that can cause tiny cuts and scrapes, which can be an entryway for a virus to set up shop in your mouth. Besides that, stay away from foods that trigger canker sores. Potential troublemakers include whole wheat, rye, barley, shellfish, pineapple, chocolate and tomatoes, as well as salty or citrus fruits.

Gum Problems: Bleeding, Swollen, and Sore Gums.   According to the World Health Organization, reports showed that 85% of adults in the U.S. have a type of gum disease and most are not aware of it.  Various symptoms of gum disease include: swollen, red, tender, bleeding or receding gums; sensitive teeth; obvious plaque, tartar or calculus; persistent bad breath; spaces developing between teeth; or loose or mobile teeth.  Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is another common symptom.  Dr. Tischler says, “These symptoms occur because the body’s immune system is responding to an infection caused by bacteria in the gums.  People usually ignore the symptoms or don’t take them too seriously, since they probably cannot see the infected regions of the gums.”

Ginseng can be used to alleviate the pain associated with irritated gum tissue. A ginseng tonic can be directly applied to the gum to promote circulation and speed healing. An additional home remedy suggestion is to use a wet tea bag for tooth or gum pain. Tea contains astringent tannins, which have the power to shrink swollen tissue and stop bleeding.

How to Handle a Knocked Out a Tooth? Shake off debris (rinsing or scrubbing could remove important periodontal ligament), place it in a container of milk or back in its socket and try to reach the dentist within 30 minutes. “Unfortunately, not all teeth can be saved,” advises Dr. Tischler. “Alternative methods, such as the Prettau Zirconia Implant Bridge, may need to be considered.”

About Tischler Dental

Since 1971, Tischler Dental has been located in Woodstock, New York. To better fulfill our practice philosophy, we opened a new 10,000 square foot dental treatment center situated on nine scenic acres in the Hudson Valley with views of the majestic Catskill Mountains. Our state-of-the-art facility has 12 dental treatment rooms, each with large windows to capture our beautiful surroundings. Included in these treatment rooms is a surgical suite consisting of two surgical areas that will allow dental implant, bone grafting, periodontal surgery, sedation, and other surgical procedures to be performed in a separate area. We have one of the only dedicated implant surgical suites with its own CT machine in the Hudson Valley. This is the commitment Michael has to implant dentistry. Our dental practice serves Ulster County, Dutchess County, and the greater Hudson Valley area.

About Michael Tischler, DDS

 Michael Tischler, DDS and Maurice Tischler, DDS have been listed as one of America's Top Dentists by the Consumer Research Council. This accomplishment is based on their experience, training and membership in professional organizations. Dr. Michael Tischler is an internationally recognized leader in the dental field for his achievements in educating his colleagues through many lectures and over 30 published articles on the topic of dental implants and bone grafting and cosmetic dentistry. Reconstruction of his patient’s mouth and tooth replacement with dental implants. Dental Implants and cosmetics are Michael's true passion. He is appreciative that he can provide this service to his patients and that he truly enjoys planning and performing these miracles of dentistry.  He has placed and restored thousands of dental implants with the highest success rate and has received numerous awards for his skill as an implant and cosmetic dentist.

Michael received a Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from the Georgetown University School of Dentistry in Washington, D.C., before joining Tischler Dental in 1989. Dr. Tischler brings dental implant, bone grafting and gum surgery experience to the dental practice, in addition to prosthetic and cosmetic makeover dental procedures. Dr. Tischler lectures throughout the country to his colleagues and has had many articles published on the principles of implant dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and bone grafting in major dental journals. He is listed as a dental expert on Dental XP, the internationally recognized leading website for online education.  As one of the nation's leading implant and cosmetic dentists, his lecture schedule is vigorous. Dr. Tischler has been listed by "Dentistry Today," the nation's leading clinical news magazines for dentists, as a leader in continuing education since 2003 and is also on The CE Editorial Board for this widely read dental journal. He is also on the Editorial Advisory Board for The Journal of Implant and Advanced Clinical Dentistry. Dr. Tischler is also The Former Director of Implant Education for DaVinci Dental Studios in West Hills, CA. DaVinci is one of the most renowned dental labs in the country. Michael was also previously the Director Of Implant Education for the prestigious Nash Institute in Charlotte NC. Michael has been faculty for the UMDNJ Jersey Dental School AAID Maxi Course.

The is a guest article.

Calzone Bites easy recipe

Calzone Bites


Ingredients
15 Athens® Mini Fillo Shells
15 slices of pizza pepperoni
¼ cup pizza sauce
¾ cup finely shredded mozzarella
5 ounces pizza dough (1/2 tube)


Directions
1 teaspoon Italian seasoningPlace the shells on an ungreased baking sheet. Press one slice of pepperoni into each shell. Evenly distribute the pizza sauce among the shells followed by the cheese.

Roll out the pizza dough to the approximate size of the shell tray. With a small, round cookie cutter that is approximately the size of the shell, cut out 15 pieces. Place each piece of dough on top of the filling.

Sprinkle the shells with the seasoning and bake for 8-10-minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F. Serve immediately.Yield: 15 appetizersTips:

Create a vegetarian version using your favorite vegetable toppings instead of pepperoni.

Top with a dollop of sauce and garnish with strips of pepperoni.


1-2-3-4 Mini Fillo Shells Recipe contest - phyllo.com/contest/

Guest recipe from Athens®

DIY Bow using a Tie for Father's Day

What do you get your husband for Father's Day? One of my favorite gifts for him is food! Here is a yummy gift basket idea where I used some of his favorite snacks. To top off the gift basked I used a tie and made it into a bow. This tie also becomes part of the gift! It is SO EASY to make!

It is super easy to do and PERFECT for Father's Day or any male gift. You can use a tie that is already in your home or buy one! The tie can be a gift, too!

 Fold 24" of Bowdabra wire in half and add to the center of the Mini Bowdabra

 Start with the small end of the tie and add to the Mini Bowdabra. Keep folding it back in forth.

 You will need to push it in as it gets thick and keep a finger with moderate pressure on the center.

 When you have used all the tie that you want, keep one hand holding one side and pull up the Bowdabra Wire, loop the ends and tie off tight.

 Pull out of the Mini Bowdabra, flip over and knot it.

 I turned away for a second and one of my cats, Truffle, jumped up and started eating the Bowdabra Wire. It was really cute!

 Keep the extra Bowdabra Wire attached and use it to wrap around your gift basket, gift bag, etc.

 It is that simple! 

Easy S'mores Cups

What is your favorite smore recipe? Are you a traditional smore eater with 2 graham crackers, 1 toasted marshmallow and half a bar of Hershey chocolate? Or  are you a modernist and will try other forms of smores for the sport of it?  

Easy S'mores

Ingredients

3 tablespoons Jet-puffed Marshmallow Creme
1 1/2 teaspoons heavy cream
1/4 cup chocolate chips
3 tablespoons graham cracker crumbs
15 Athens® Mini Fillo Shells (1 box)

In a medium bowl mix marshmallow crème with heavy cream until smooth. Add chocolate chips and mix until evenly coated. Spoon a 1/2 teaspoon of the graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of each Fillo Shell. Fill shells with a heaping teaspoon of the marshmallow mixture. Arrange filled shells evenly on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for five minutes. Serve immediately.

Yield: 15 dessertsNote: Chocolate chips will retain their original shape but will be soft when eaten.

Guest recipe provided by Athens®. 

More Dessert Recipes

Bacon Brownies 
Best Ever Cup Cakes
Bloody Broken Glass Cupcakes 
Brown Butter Cereal Bars with Candied Bacon
Cake Batter Martini
Candy Apples
Candy Sushi
Cappuccino Caramel Oat Bars
Chai Brownie Cupcakes with Frothy Frosting

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Muppets Band-Aid Magic Vision App

So I bet you are wondering what Kermit the Frog is up to? Yes he is playing the banjo and singing on my iPad!  He is one of the featured Muppets along with Miss Piggy and Gonzo in the new app, Band-Aid Magic Vision. The Band-Aid Magic Vision application, uses Augmented Reality technology to merge your child's real-life surroundings with graphics displayed on the digital screen to unlock a special world where Disney's The Muppets characters come to life to distract your child from their boo boo.

Download the app within minutes on the iPad 2. Once the app is downloaded, use a Muppets Band-Aid Brand Adhesive Bandage to activate the app. To do this, just put the bandage or the box in the viewfinder and it will capture the image. I was amazed at this technology! We didn't have to snap a picture, the iPad just captured the image. If you look above, my daughter had the bandage on her jeans and the iPad captured the picture and up popped Kermit the Frog. The background is whatever you have under your iPad.

Once you activate the app with the picture of the bandage, you get Kermit swinging on your iPad and singing. If you tilt the iPad he will swing back and forth more! It is set up to distract your child from their boo boo. You can also select Miss Piggy or Gonzo. Of course. Gonzo is a hyper character and if you shake the device over and over until he tells you to stop you can release him from being stuck to your iPad. 

If that isn't cool enough, you can also take quick and easy screen shots to include your kid in the scene or of their boo boo. The pictures can be emailed and saved. I think that the one feature missing is the social media share. All the people who will use this app will have Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and more! It would have been awesome to share at least on Facebook so grandma and grandpa can see the boo boo and how well the child is doing. That is my ONLY recommendation with this awesome, high tech app!

I can see this app bringing more options in the future. What a fun app to have at daycare, the Dr. office or ER room. The app is available for the iPhone 4, 4S, iPad 2 and new iPad. We only tested it on the iPad 2. You need to get a box of Muppet Band-Aid Brand Adhesive Bandage, download the app and test it out.

This app is NOT just for little kids. My teens were loving it and so was I. My teens can take the bandages and app on their iPad or iPhone the next babysitting job! If the little kids get a boo boo, she can distract them, take care of their boo boo and help them feel better more quickly. She can also capture the photos to share or email to the parents. 

This last picture is of Gonzo. He goes a tad crazy and fake "breaks" your iPad or iPhone screen!  It looked REAL! So we decided that the iPad needed a bandage, too! 


I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Band-Aid Brand Adhesive Bandages and received a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

Gooseberry Patch The Christmas Table Cookbook Giveaway

Welcome to an early Christmas with a review of the new, up and coming release of The Christmas Table Gooseberry Patch Cookbook. Make your holidays extra special with their new, abundant collection of delicious seasonal recipes, creative tips and sweet memories.

As with all Gooseberry Patch cookbooks, this is another tasty one. As soon as I get a new cookbook, I grab my pack of post it notes and go off somewhere alone to enjoy the book. This was one especially FUN because I LOVE the entire Christmas season and go all out with decorations, host a huge open house and more! I love the sights and sounds of the season, the fun new foods to create as well as preparing the traditional foods.

As you can see by the below picture, I found just a FEW new ideas! I can't wait to try all of them. The book is geared toward Christmas but I found a lot of recipes that you could make anytime! So it isn't just for Christmas!

Chapter by Chapter Review- I love cookbooks and doing reviews of them. Below I list the chapters and some of the recipes that I want to try in each one. I hope some of them sound good to you, too!

Chapter 1- Cozy Christmas Brunch:Quiche Muffins, 24-Hour Never-Fail Cheese Souffle, Whole-Wheat Gingerbread Pancakes, Jenn's Creme Brulee French Toast (I am making this for Father's Day and will post the recipe & pictures after that), Jingle Bell Java, Snowflake Hot Cocoa, Kitchen Cupboard Waffles, and Snickerdoodle Muffins.

Chapter 2- Chill-Chasing Soups & Breads: Winter Artichoke Soup, Nana's Slovak Christmas Eve Soup with Homemade Noodles,  Poppy Seed-Cheese Bread, Easy Oatmeal Rolls, Lori's Kid-Friendly Chili, Fiesta Bubble Bread (making this on Friday and will post pictures & recipe), Holiday Posole, Mom's Lefse and Colonial Brown Bread.

Chapter 3-Caroling Party Supper: Swiss Alps Casserole (making on Friday and will post recipe and pictures after that), Brazilian Rice & Beans, Ginger-Panko Fried Chicken, Mexican Baja Quiche, Kentucky Hot Browns with Mornay Sauce (making this next week and will post pictures and recipe), Chicken Pizzaiola and Barbecups.

Chapter 4-Classic Christmas Dinner: Easy-Made Braciole, Winter Squash Risotto, Cauliflower Gratin and Red-Top Salad.

Chapter 5-Festive Holiday Fare: Bread-Bowl Crab Dip, Pine cone Cheese Ball, Figgy Tapenade, Snow-Covered Cranberries, Cannoli Dip, Blue Cheese & Buffalo Chicken Dip, Mushroom Poppers, Beer Cheese Spread, Evergreen Cheese Ball, Holly Jolly Kabobs, Vada's Christmas Eve Wassail, Snowed-In Snack Mix, Grinch Cocktail and Make-Believe Champagne.

Chapter 6-Sweet Treats to Share: Grusti, Fudgy Brownie Cookies, Grandma's Vanilla Balls, Cobblestone Cookies, Aunt Barbara's Gingerbread with Butterscotch Orange Glaze, Kipplens, Triple-Chocolate Coffee Brownies,
Coffee Cream Fudge, Tres Leches Cake, White Chocolate Mousse Trifle and last but surely not least, Peppermint Ice Cream Truffles!!

Here are a few recipes. Check back over the weekend and next week for a few more recipes that I have planned. Those recipes will count in the giveaway so you have to check them out to get your extra entries!

Jingle Bell Java-This mix also looks nice layered in a jar and makes the perfect gift. I will be doing these this year for my chocolate coffee loving friends!


2 c. powdered non-dairy creamer
1 1/2 c. baking cocoa
1 1/2 c. instant coffee granules
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. nutmeg


In a bowl, combine all ingredients, mixing well. Store in an airtight container. To serve, add 3 tablespoons to a mug and add boiling water to fill. Makes about 30 servings.


My take on the recipe: I topped mine off with whipped cream, more nutmeg and gingerbread marshmallows! Yummy! This is perfect for that afternoon pick-me-up anytime of the year. We bought extra gingerbread marshmallows at the end of the season and just keep them in our freezer to pull out for cups of coffee or hot cocoa all year long. I can't wait to give this as gifts.

Snowflake Hot Cocoa-This is for the slow cooker! How fabulous and great for my open house or any office party.


2 c. whipping cream
6 c. milk
1 t. vanilla extract
11-oz pkg. white chocolate chips
Garnish: whipped cream, chocolate syrup, candy canes, crushed creme de menthe things


In a slow cooker, combine all ingredients except garnish. Cover adn cook on low setting for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, until chocolate chips are melted. Stir before serving; garnish as desired. Makes 12 servings.


My take on the recipe: I love the idea of having this in the crock pot. I have a hot cocoa and hot drink station at my open house with Christmas mugs that I have collected over the years, people give me as gifts or from garage sales. I have about 100 mugs that I bring out every Christmas season. Each year people come and find their favorite mug and fill it with their favorite warm beverage. I also have all different toppings available including marshmallows, whipped creams and various chips and stirs.

 Oh and don't mess with this elf! She is jacked up on sugar! This past open house I had photo booth props and took pictures of all the guest. I then mailed them the pictures as a thank you for attending. It was a huge hit and one worth repeating!

Aunt Barbara's Gingerbread


1/4 c. boiling water
1/2 c. butter, softened
1 1/2 t. ground ginger
1/2 t. nutmeg
1/8 t. ground cloves
1/2 c. brown sugar, packed
1/2 c. light molasses
3 c. all purpose flour
1/2 t. baking soda
1 t. salt


In a large bowl, pour boiling water over butter. Add spices, brown sugar and molasses; mix well. Beat in flour; chill dough thoroughly. Roll dough out on a floured surface to a 1/4 inch thickness. Cut with cookie cutters; place on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 for 10-12 min. Cool completely. Frost or ice. Makes 2-4 dozen depending on size of cutters.


My take on the recipe: It is a good one! Everyone loves sweet gingerbread men. Make it fun and don't ice them. Instead let your guest do it when they come over to your home. They will have a lot of fun making their own gingerbread person or animal! 

Want to win a copy of The Christmas Table Gooseberry Patch? Enter below on the easy Rafflecopter form. I give you a lot of options so enter as few or as many as you want. Come back over the weekend and in another week because I will post more recipe from the cookbook which will give you more entry options! Good luck and Merry Christmas!

a Rafflecopter giveaway Thanks to Gooseberry Patch for sending me a copy of the cookbook to review and giveaway as part of their Early Reviewer Team. My own tasty words and opinions are expressed here. 

Menu Plan Monday & Happy National Burger Day

Happy Memorial Day for those stopping in on Monday! I hope you have had a great weekend and  have a great day today. Thank you to all the men and women who have and who are serving our Country. We love and appreciate your dedication and sacrifice for our well-being.

Monday- Happy National Burger Day-  celebrate with Fiesta Burger or Honolulu Burger, Buffalo Chicken Dip  and my Memorial Day Cupcakes & Toppers

Tuesday-Antipasto Platter and leftover burgers, Apple Crisp, quick & easy 

Wednesday- Best Ever Buffalo Chicken Burger, baked beans and fruit salad

Thursday-(party food) Chips & Dill Pickle Dip , Pizza Soup  and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls

Friday-Crab and Mushroom Cakes with Chipotle Aioli and Strawberry Spinach Salad

For other meal options, check my menu database.

Before you head out check my coupons that are about to expire for printing at the end of the month, Here and Here.

Link up your menu below. Next week you could be featured. I didn't have time this week to do it.

 I link up at orgjunkie.com and always check out 3 Boys and a Dog menu!

May Printable Coupons

I have two coupon post on my blog. This one and I did one yesterday. They both have different coupons on them! I hope you take advantage of them and print them off.

Have a super and save Memorial Day Weekend!

Automotive

• $1.00 OFF on any ONE (1) Armor All® Air Freshener (Redeemable at Walmart)

Baby & Toddler

• 75¢ OFF ONE Pampers Wipes 60 ct or larger / de descuento en UN paquete de toallitas Pampers de 60 unidades o más
• $1.50 OFF ONE Pampers Cruisers or Baby Dry Diapers (excludes trial/travel size) / de descuento en UN paquete de Pampers Cruisers o Baby Dr
• $1.50 OFF ONE Pampers Swaddlers or Swaddlers Sensitive Diapers (excludes trial/travel size) / de descuento en UN Pampers Swaddlers
• $1.00 OFF Any MAM Product
• SAVE $1.50 on any ONE (1) Feverall product
• SAVE $2.00 on any ONE (1) package of GOODNITES® Underwear (Jumbo Pack or Larger)

Beverages

• SAVE $1.00 on any ONE (1) 36 oz. V8 V-Fusion® Smoothie beverage. Find in the juice aisle.
• SAVE $3.00 on any two (2) Ensure Clear™ 4-packs (Redeemable at Walmart)
• SAVE $1.00 off any Welch's® Sparkling Juice Cocktail (any flavor) Available at Walmart

Foods

• Save 55¢ On any One (1) Litehouse® Product
• SAVE $1.00 when you buy any 1 package of belVita Breakfast Biscuit and a gallon of Milk (Walmart)
• $0.55 OFF ONE (1) ZonePerfect® Multipack (Redeemable at Walmart)
• SAVE $1.00 on any JOSÉ OLÉ® brand item, 16 oz. or larger
• SAVE $0.50 On Any Two (2) DOVE® Chocolate Singles Bars (1.44 oz.)
• SAVE $1.00 on the purchase of any two (2) HORMEL® COMPLEATS® microwave meals
• SAVE 75¢ on any ONE (1) package of KRAFT FRESH TAKE Cheese & Breadcrumb Mix (Find it in the Dairy Aisle)
• SAVE $1.00 on TWO (2) packages of any LUNCHABLES Lunch Combinations with Fruit
• Save $1.00 on any (1) IHOP at Home® Frozen Breakfast item
• SAVE $1.00 On any one (1) box of South Beach Diet® Bars
• $.55 off any Reser's Deli Salad
• $.55 off any Reser's Deli Salad
• SAVE $0.55 when you buy HOT POCKETS® brand SNACKERS (any size)
• SAVE 55¢ on any ONE (1) package of PHILADELPHIA INDULGENCE Cream Cheese Spread (8 oz.) (Find in the cream cheese section)
• SAVE 90¢ on any ONE (1) TEMPTATIONS by JELL-O or MOUSSE TEMPTATIONS by JELL-O
• SAVE $1.00 off any ONE (1) Honey Bunches of Oats Fruit Blends cereal - 18oz and larger (Walmart)

Health Care

• SAVE $4.00 on any Non-Drowsy Claritin-D® Allergy Product (15 count or larger)
• SAVE $3.00 on any Children's Non-Drowsy Claritin® Allergy Product (20 count Chewables)
• SAVE $2.00 on any Children's Non-Drowsy Claritin® Allergy Product (4 oz Syrup)
• SAVE $1.00 ON ANY (1) COLGATE® ORABASE®
• SAVE $5.00 on any size NasalCrom® allergy product (Walmart)
• SAVE $1.00 On LIttle Tummys® Gripe Water or any Little Remedies® Product (Walmart)
• SAVE $5.00 on any Non-Drowsy Claritin® Allergy Product (24 count or larger)
• SAVE $2.00 on any Lotrimin® or Lotrimin Ultra® product

Household

• Save $0.55 Bar Keepers Friend ® Cleanser 12 oz Available at groceries
• Save $20 on a Sweep debris & steam mop in 1 step with BISSELL Steam&Sweep™
• $2.00 off any FoodSaver® Heat-Seal Bag or Roll
• Save $1.00 On the Purchase of Spot Shot® Pet Aerosol 14oz (Redeemable at Walmart)
• $10.00 off any FoodSaver® Vacuum Sealing Appliance $69 or more.
• $2.00 OFF Any ONE Garden Safe® Brand Fungicide or Insecticide Item (Redeemable at Walmart)
• SAVE $1.00 on any OFF! Botanicals® Insect Repellent
• SAVE $1.00 on any Glade® PlugIns® Scented Oil twin refill or TWO single refills
• SAVE $1.25 on any Glade® PlugIns® Scented Oil warmer
• SAVE 75¢ on any Glade® Automatic Spray refill
• SAVE $1.00 on any TWO Glade® Sense & Spray® refills
• SAVE $3.00 on any Glade® Sense & Spray® starter kit
• SAVE $1.00 on any TWO Glade® 4 oz. Jar or Scented Oil Candle products
• Save $1.00 on any ONE (1) Cutter® Product

Personal Care

• Save $0.50 On ONE (1) roll of SAFESKIN* Kids Sport Wrap (Walmart)
• $1.00 OFF On 2 x 2 oz Size of RevitaLens OcuTec® Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution
• SAVE $2.00 On any two (2) Right Guard® Body Wash Products (Not to be combined with any other offer) (WALMART)
• $1.00 OFF ALMAY Cosmetics & Makeup Removers (Available at Walgreens)
• SAVE $1.00 on any one Coppertone® Suncare Product (except trial size)
• SAVE $2.00 on any (2) TWO Dial® or Dial® for Men Body Wash (6oz or larger)
• $1.00 OFF any New Skin® product
• SAVE $1.50 on 2 Lip Shimmers
• SAVE $2.00 on any L’Oreal Healthy Look Crème Gloss Hair Color
• SAVE $2.00 ON ANY ONE (1) GARNIER® MOISTURIZER PRODUCT
• $1.00 OFF on ANY purchase of adidas Deodorant, Anti-Perspirant, Body wash or Deo Body Spray Product At Your local Supercenter
• $1.00 OFF Any 10 oz or Larger Size of RevitaLens OcuTec® Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution
• $2 off Revlon® Just Bitten Kissable™ Balm Stain lip item (Redeem Only at Target)
• SAVE $5.00 on the purchase of any (2) NEOSPORIN® ESSENTIALS™ product (excludes individual trial sizes)

Pet Care

• SAVE $3.00 on Any SENTRY PHEROMONE BEHAVIOR PRODUCT. Available at Pet Specialty Retailers.
• SAVE $1.00 on any ONE (1) size or variety of Cat's Pride® cat litter