A Busy Mom's Slow Cooker Adventures

Food For Gifts: Tips for Handmade Gifts - Guest Post

2013-05-17T21:47:00.002-04:00

Food For Gifts: Tips For Handmade Gifts

When we were younger (when we had no income and no means by which to buy our parents something that wouldn’t have come out of their own pockets), we used to make them gifts ourselves. In many ways, those might have been the most thoughtful and relational gifts we could have ever given.

Why? Because we put in the effort of making it with our own hands.

We live in a society that is getting increasingly “gift weary” because of the high amount of focus on birthday and holiday shopping. Gift cards, in particular, have made it easy to view gift giving as an obligation with little or no thought (or effort) required.

While you can give a gift card with thought and sincerity, you can still (even as an adult) make something yourself that will be considered far more thoughtful.

It’ll probably also cost you a lot less, so everybody wins.

Since food lends itself easily to this style of gift giving, let’s look at a few ideas for homemade gifts in that category.

1. Fruit Infused Vodkas

Finding a cute and attractive glass bottle to keep it in is easy and fairly inexpensive. The process to actually make the fruit flavored vodka is even easier. Essentially, just buy the vodka and add the fruit. You can find plenty of recipes and instructions online.

2. Jams and Preserves

Since these are so easy to make, it’s odd that you see people buying them as gifts so often. Making them yourself is a pretty simple process and you can get creative with flavors and the jars you use to present them. Pinterest is a great place to go for flavor and presentation ideas.

Your out of pocket expense will be pretty low for this one.

3. Spice and Dry Rub Mixes

It might sound a bit redundant for someone who probably already has an adequate spice rack, but having a spice or rub mix already made for you is great when you’re ready to cook a meal that calls for it.

The person you gift this to will appreciate the fact that you took the time to mix it all up. Like the vodka and preserves, you can present it in a variety of different “gifty” ways.

Try making a few different kinds, labeling each container and giving them in a gift basket. These are especially great if you know people who love to cook.

4. Flavored Sugars

Different flavored sugars are easy to make and, like the spice mixes, are best offered in different flavors or variety packs. These might be ideal for someone you know who drinks a lot of tea or coffee, or who likes to bake on a fairly regular basis.

5. Homemade Cookie Dough

Presentation is everything with this one. The best way to wrap it up is to make it into a log, like you will often see at the store. To start, use some kind of baking paper, then wrap that paper up in something decorative and tie it off at the ends. Once it’s all wrapped, add a decorative label and you’re good to go.

You could also reuse a gift box (i.e. wine box) or gift bag that you have received in the past for any of these homemade gifts.

One of these gifts is sure to please and the recipient will definitely appreciate the fact that you took the time to make the gift yourself (and it won’t burn a hole in your wallet!).

Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer from the Los Angeles area whose writing covers everything from healthy eating and cooking to technology and manufacturing. When it comes to budgeting, she enjoys saving money by making thoughtful handmade gifts for her friends and loved ones.

Cookbook Update from Hope 5-14-13

2013-05-14T11:27:00.001-04:00

It's been pretty quiet here as I've been editing away the manuscript of the cookbook! I can't believe I'm in the final stages of getting this cookbook to you! Here's what's going on:

This Week (May 13-18):
The Cover for the book is being developed!
Hope is editing the manuscript.
Hope will having fans vote on which author photos she will use in the book!

Next Week (May 19-25)
The ebook and print book will be formatted.
Back cover will be developed.
Hope will make final choices!

Somewhere around May 25-26 (maybe sooner, maybe later)
Hope will upload "Slow Cooker Recipes: 10 Ingredients or Less and Gluten-Free" to amazon.com.
Hope will start taking pre-orders for an autographed copy of "Slow Cooker Recipes: 10 Ingredients or Less and Gluten-Free"

Can you believe it's almost time for you to purchase MY cookbook?!!!! My goodness! I can hardly wait for you to see this!!!!!!!

Barbecue Brisket Slider Recipe - Guest Post

2013-05-08T21:07:00.000-04:00

Barbecue Brisket Slider Recipe

Everyone loves barbecues. But according to government run Food Safety councils across the globe, undercooked meat on a BBQ is one of the biggest health concerns in the developed world. This is because raw or uncooked meat contains germs that can cause life threatening levels of food poisoning. This is why using a slow cooker is a great way to ensure that not only is the meat well cooked, but it also helps the barbecues taste better because of the evenly applied heat.

In this article, we will teach you how to make barbecue brisket sliders using a slow cooker. Here are the ingredients you will need –

Ingredients:

1 flatly cut beef brisket

1 tablespoon of Cumin powder,

1 tablespoon of Onion powder

½ tablespoon of Garlic powder and Cumin

Smoked paprika

½ tablespoon of Cayenne pepper

12-16 small potato rolls

½ cup mayonnaise

½ cup honey barbecue sauce

½ cup brown sugar

Hamburger buns

Salt and pepper to taste

Above all, a slow cooker

How to make:

To start off, you will need to prepare the beef brisket. For this, take out the trimmed beef brisket and sprinkle it with a good amount of salt and pepper. Over this, evenly sprinkle the Cumin powder, Onion powder, garlic powder, Cumin and Cayenne pepper that we had listed in the ingredients. As you do this, remember to evenly spread the powder all over the surface of the brisket. This is not only to give a uniform taste but also helps the brisket absorb these tastes unto it which makes the brisket taste better overall. Apply these powders to both sides of the brisket.

Pour your honey barbecue sauce and brown sugar into the slow cooker and stir it to mix evenly. Once this is done, slowly dip the seasoned brisket into the sauce mixture. If you have a little sauce remaining, pour this on the top of the brisket. It is now time for the slow cooker to get at work. Close the cooker with its lid and let the brisket cook on low for 9-10 hours.

After this is done, the brisket is thoroughly cooked. Take it out of the cooker and slice off the top layer from the brisket. Now turn it upside down and run your knife against the grain of the brisket. This will shred the brisket into thin fragments.

In the meantime, the sauce from the slow cooker would begin to cool off and you should be able to notice the fat from the sauce rise to the top. Skim this layer off the sauce and discard.

Now drop the shreds of brisket back into the slow cooker that already contains the sauce with the fat skimmed out. Heat it for around an hour. You can add some water if you notice the sauce beginning to thicken up. Continue this till the meat is completely cooked.

Serve the shreds of the brisket on the hamburger buns. Add the potato rolls and mayonnaise for added taste. Your kids will love this food.

Fiesta Chicken with Rice and Beans - Guest Post

2013-05-07T20:22:00.002-04:00

Fiesta Chicken with Rice and Beans

Spring is here, meaning it’s time for fresh spring recipes that you can eat on the porch while you’re soaking up the sunshine. While many people pack up their slow cookers at the first sign of warm weather, there’s absolutely no reason to do so. Slow cookers are great kitchen tools all year round—in fact, you’ll actually be limiting your spring cooking options if you pack yours up until next winter!

While you will probably want to stay away from heavier winter staples like thick stews, pot roasts and creamy soups, there are dozens of ways to make lighter spring recipes in the slow cooker! They’re versatile enough to handle virtually any type of dish you’re craving; just use seasonal spring ingredients to keep your meals light so they won’t weigh you down.

This easy recipe for Fiesta Chicken with Rice and Bans is the perfect example of how warm-weather dinners are easy to make in cold-weather kitchen tools. It uses tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning mix and black beans for a burst of spicy spring flavor, and a chicken breast and rice combination that will fill you up. Eat it on its own, or put a fun spin on taco night and try spooning the fiesta chicken mixture into tortillas and taco shells.

Plus, tomato recipes like this one don’t require unhealthy cream or butter bases, making this a dish you can feel great about serving your family. Try it tonight and enjoy!

Fiesta Chicken with Rice and Beans

· PAM® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray

· 2 10 oz. cans Ro*Tel® Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, undrained

· 1 15 oz. Hunt’s® Tomato Sauce

· 1 15 oz. can Rosarita® Premium Whole Black Beans, drained and rinsed

· 1 cup frozen whole kernel corn

· 1 1.25 oz. package 30% less sodium taco seasoning mix

· 2 cups water

· 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 24 pieces

· 1 ½ cups parboiled white long-grain rice, uncooked

Spray the inside of a 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Place all remaining ingredients except for rice in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 ½ hours or until chicken is tender.

Add rice, stir and cook for 30 more minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Stir again before serving.

Author Bio: This is a guest post by Meredith K. on behalf of Hunt’s®. For more easy slow cooker recipes and dinner ideas from salads to easy meatloaf recipes, visit www.hunts.com.

An Update on the Cookbook

2013-05-02T16:54:00.000-04:00

Well, hello everyone!!!!!!! Happy Spring! It's been so beautiful here in Michigan.....and it's about darn time! There have been lots of exciting things happening the last few months and I want to give you a quick update.

I've been feverishly working on typing up my cookbook so I can submit it to editors.....(my die hard friends and family!) The week of May 13th, my graphic designer will work with me on designing the cover. The week of the 20th, the book will be formatted for eBook and Print. After that, I upload it to Amazon and, well......the rest is yet to come!

A few weeks ago, I had a cooking marathon at my house. I made 22 dishes in 2 days! YUP! Crazy, right?! I'll tell you....we have plenty of food for at least another 3-4 weeks in our freezer.

My photographer, Robert Wyse of Wyse Eyes Photography took tons of beautiful pictures of every recipe in my cookbook. We even took a few outdoor shots. It was cold....like 40 degrees.

As you can see.....we're pretty high tech using a laundry basket and what not! LOL

If you didn't get to see my "Behind the Scenes" videos I posted on facebook, you can find them below:

I cannot WAIT for you to see this cookbook! I'm so proud of it, and it's turning out just the way I envisioned! As an added bonus, because I've recently gone gluten-free, all of the recipes in my cookbook will either be naturally gluten free, or have adaptations as to how to make them gluten free. This book will appeal to anyone and everyone! I put in only recipes that anyone can make, with my usual witty comments and step-by-step instructions. Due to the cost of printing books with photography, I will not be adding step-by-step pictures, however. I want to keep the book affordable for you. I am busy making sure the directions are even more detailed so you'll know just what to do.

When I know what the book will cost, I will take pre-orders. All pre-orders will receive an autographed copy from me! :)

Thank you for all of your support and kind words while I've been working on this massive undertaking! I sincerely appreciate it!

Buffalo Chicken Sliders - Guest Post from The Country Cook

2013-04-29T22:00:00.001-04:00

I have another recipe fro you from Brandie at TheCountryCook.net. How do Buffalo Chicken Sliders sound?! Amazing, right?! If you're gluten free, just grab yourself some gluten free buns or rolls. These would still be equally delicious.

Brandi from TheCountryCook.net publishes a website dedicated to classic American recipes and quick and easy family favorites . Brandie is a working Momma who lives in the beautiful mountains of Virginia. She understands the challenges of today's families and shares many recipes that are quick and easy to prepare so families have more time to enjoy each other (and a tasty meal) together at the supper table.

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

For this incredible recipe, please click here.
And don't worry.....I'll be sharing more of Brandie's tasty recipes in the future!

Jesben Slow Cooker Sauces

2013-04-28T13:28:00.005-04:00

I had the pleasure of being contacted by Susie, President of Jesben LLC, to see if I would like to try her all natural sauces! I was so excited when she told me they are also GLUTEN FREE! Hooray! It's an added bonus! These sauces were absolutely delicious! All you have to do is add meat. That's it! You seriously plop your meat (or tofu) in your slow cooker, pour a jar of Jesben Slow Cooker Sauce over the top and turn it on! When you get home, you have a delicious and healthy dinner! What could be better than that?! My family loved both of these sauces.

There are currently two flavors of Jesben Slow Cooker Sauces: Original BBQ and Italian Tomato, Peppers & Herbs. Since I had the pleasure of trying both of them, I can tell you they are both equally delicious! They are currently in the process of developing additional flavors, which I am very excited for.

Their sauces are currently available in supermarkets in PA, OH, WV and MD, and are located near the seasoning packs and gravy. They are also gaining distribution in other stores throughout the U.S, (e.g., NY, NJ, IN) and are now are also available online at AbesMarket.com. I found them here. You can also visit their website www.jesben.com/home/ for recipes, videos and more!

I hope you give them a try! They are worth every penny!

Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore - Guest Post by Being Cheap Is Easy!

2013-04-18T21:13:00.001-04:00

I absolutely love Chicken Cacciatore! When Ashleigh of www.beingcheapiseasy.com contacted me with this recipe, I was more than happy to post it! I'm especially happy to see a recipe with FEW and HEALTHY ingredients! This is one of those "go-to" type recipes when you're in a pinch.

Ashleigh is a Michigan mom of 3 little ladies and hubby Ricky. Her blog shares tips on how to save money online and in stores, recipes for easy and inexpensive meals, gardening, music, decorating, etc. She's always finding new topics to talk about!

Chicken Cacciatore

For this awesome recipe, follow this link.

Comment below on what you think about this great recipe!

MDM Bowtique Personalized Letters

2013-04-09T20:51:00.001-04:00

I had the immense pleasure of receiving a beautiful set of Personalized letters from Amber of MDM Bowtique! First, Amber was wonderful to work with. She asked what the colors of the room I would be placing my letters were, then posted lots of sample paper for me to choose from. Once I let her know which papers I liked, she put together some sample combinations for me so I could visualize things a bit better.

When she finished, and added the beautiful embellishments, I was SOOOO pleased! They look absolutely beautiful! I was going to hang them above my fireplace, but decided they looked perfect right on my mantle. So, sorry about seeing me holding the camera in the pictures! LOL!

The letters are one of a kind works of art that can be customized to match just about any color or style.

*****For the month of April, you can get each (8") letter for $3.50 each or $20 for each connected word (family, love, welcome, laugh, faith.) Make sure to mention you saw this special here or on facebook to get this deal!!!!!!! You can find MDM Bowtique on facebook here. She has all sorts of examples and options for you to choose from there. You can also email her at owner@123child.com with any questions of special requests you might have.

*Disclosure: MDM Bowtique sent me the letters for free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may differ from others'.

Teriyaki Chicken - Guest Post from Mamma Maria's La Cucina

2013-04-08T21:43:00.000-04:00

No muss, no fuss! That's what I love about his recipe by guest poster Maria of Mamma Maria's La Cucina. Any recipe where I can just throw chicken in a slow cooker with some spices, I'm in!!!! I can't wait for you to try this, because everything from Mamma Maria is awesome!

A little bit about Mamma Maria......At the age of 10, Maria began cooking with her father and quickly developed a love for it! She enjoys mix-matching different spices and ingredients in different combinations to make unique tastes. Maria is a work at home mommy who LOVES to cook! Lucky for us, Mamma Maria has agreed to share several of her slow cooker recipes with us over the next few months! I'm excited to share the first one with you!

Teriyaki Chicken

Ingredients:

1lb chicken (sliced, cubed or however)

1c chicken broth

1/2c terriyaki or soy sauce

1/3c brown sugar

3minced garlic cloves

1/4 cup honey

1 Tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions:

Add ingredients to small crock stir, cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours

Serve with rice and zucchini , they were perfect accompaniment to this dish !!

Simple easy and delicious !!!

For Mamma's original post, with step by step pictures, click here.

CampusBookRentals.com

2013-04-05T06:30:00.000-04:00

Boy do I wish I had this option when I was in college!!!!! I would have been able to save a lot of money if I was able to rent my textbooks from CampusBookRentals.com! They even boast on their website that you can feel free to highlight in them as if you owned them. As if that isn't cool enough, they actually have online support! Phew! The more friends you refer to them, the more you "cash in!" You can also "rent back" your books when you're done by going to www.rentback.com. How cool is that?!

CampusBookRentals.com have partnered with Operation Smile and are donating over 1,000 life saving cleft lip surgeries this year to children in need. Awesome!

Go visit www.CampusBookRentals.com to see what it's all about for yourself!

*Disclaimer: I am being compensated for this post. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may differ from others'.

Health Benefits of Grass Fed Beef - Guest Post

2013-04-04T06:00:00.000-04:00

'Grass fed' means that the cattle that your beef comes from have eaten only grass and other foraged foods during their lifetime. It makes sense that what the cow eats makes a significant difference to the beef that it gives. The old adage 'you are what you eat' isn't just for children. Compared with traditional grain-fed beef, grass-fed beef has a much higher content of good fats, and much lower instances of bad fats. Understanding the difference between good and bad fats is a very important thing for your all-round health and well-being. It can be thought of as knowing the difference between what your body needs and what it doesn't. Omega-3 fatty acids and linoleic acid, antioxidant vitamins like vitamin E, are all found in high numbers in grass-fed beef, and are all indispensable elements to good health. For example, omega 3 fatty acids are essential for normal growth, and they play a big role in the prevention and treatment of nasty things like hypertension, coronary artery disease, arthritis, and cancer. Grass fed farming techniques are now practised and promoted by butchers like Cannings butchers, because there has recently been a big media discussion about the health elements of meat eating within the health industry.

Tests have shown us that when the ratio of omega 6 fats to omega 3 fats exceeds 4:1 in the food we eat habitually, health problems are likely to occur. To be healthy and have a strong healthy heart, this ration should be kept low. Grain-fed beef can have ratios that exceed 20:1 and grass-fed beef is down around 3:1, it's a big difference! This ratio of omegas can be easily overlooked, even though it's a very important health indicator. That means that lovely lean meat can actually lower your cholesterol levels! What's more, grass fed is that it is less likely to give a nasty food sickness, because levels of e coli are dramatically lower in grass fed cattle stomachs. Basically, you're much better off spending those extra few dollars on your grass fed beef. The cost is nothing compared with the benefits. Grass fed is the future.

This article was written by Danielle McAnn. You can find here in the following places

About.me/mcanndanielle

Connect with me on Google+

*Disclaimer: I have been compensated for posting this article. All opinions expressed here are those of Danielle McAnn.

"Falling Into You" by @Jasinda Wilder #Giveaway WINNER ANNOUNCED!

2013-04-03T21:59:00.001-04:00

Thank you to everyone who entered this awesome Giveaway!!! The giveaway tool randomly generated 3 winner for our Jasinda Wilder "Falling Into You" Giveaway!

Congrats to the following winners!

$25 Amazon Gift Card and Autographed Copy Winner - Amber L.

$10 Amazon Gift Card and Autographed Copy Winner - Julie S.

$10 Amazon Gift Card and Autographed Copy Winner - Maria S.

All 3 winners have been emailed and will need to respond withing 48 hours with their mailing address to claim their prizes, or a new winner will be selected.

Easter Slow Cooker Ideas

2013-03-25T21:18:00.002-04:00

First, thank you all of you for sticking with me during this cookbook process! It's been tough not to post new recipes for you every week! Just wait till you see these 2 cookbooks! They're going to be great!

Now, with Easter just a few days away, I thought I'd give you some ideas on things you could make in the slow cooker to save on oven space! Here are some sample menu items for you!

Main Course:
Brown Sugar and Honey Ham
Apple and Onion Pork Loin
Tropical Pork with Sweet Potatoes and Lemon Glazed Carrots

Side Dishes:
"Baked" Sweet Potatoes
Creamy Chive and Onion Mashed Potatoes
Greek Green Beans
Green Bean Casserole
Green Beans with Tomatoes, Bacon and Onions
Honey-Mustard Red Potatoes
Kickin' Beans
Slow Cooked Baked Beans

Desserts:
Apple Pear Delight
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
Coffee Caramel Cake
"Cookie" Divine
Irish Cream Brownies with Heath
Key Lime Cake
Orange Mint Cheesecake
Raspberry Lemon Cake
Rice Pudding
White Chocolate and Mixed Berry Cobbler
Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Leftover Ham:
The Best Bean and Ham Soup

Breakfast:
Cheese Strata
Egg Casserole
Turkey Bacon, Spinach and Gruyere Quiche
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Cinnamon French Toast Casserole
Mexican Breakfast Casserole
Slow Cooker Yogurt

Three-Bean Turkey Chili - Hamilton Beach Recipe

2013-03-24T20:34:00.000-04:00

It's still pretty darn cold here in Michigan, which means it's still time for Chili! This Three-Bean Turkey Chili sounds delicious! It's packed with lots of things that are healthy for you, and has a little bit of a "kick" too! Did I mention, it just "looks" delicious too?! I can almost smell it.......

For this hearty Three-Bean Turkey Chili recipe, click here.

For more great Hamilton Beach slow cooker recipes, click here.

How to Easily Make Any Recipe Gluten-Free - Guest Post by Bridgette Sandorford

2013-03-24T10:20:00.002-04:00

How to Easily Make Any Recipe Gluten-Free

Eating a gluten-free diet can be difficult: There seems to be gluten in just about all your favorite foods! Yet you know you can't eat gluten, either because you have a sensitivity or because you are trying to eat an overall healthier diet that is lower in carbs.

You don't have to resign yourself to eating broccoli and lettuce for every meal. You can enjoy many of your favorites by making some simple substitutions. Here are a few ideas for how you can make any recipe gluten-free:

Substitute the Flour

The primary ingredient in most recipes that contains gluten is the flour. You can easily fix this by substituting a gluten-free flour in the recipe. Some options may include:

Almond flour
Coconut flour

You will have to experiment with the ratios as you may not be able to substitute these flours one-for-one for typical all-purpose flour.

Opt for Flourless

You can get around the problem of the flour by omitting it from the recipe completely. Of course, this won't be an option for many dishes. However, you can easily find recipes online for flourless cake (http://allrecipes.com/recipe/flourless-chocolate-cake-ii/), flourless brownies (http://www.homemademommy.net/2013/01/flourless-brownies.html) and flourless cookies (http://babyparenting.about.com/od/snackrecipes/r/3ingpbcookies.htm). Search online to find flourless options of your favorite desserts.

Swap Out the Breadcrumbs

Sweet foods aren't the only ones harboring gluten. Savory fried treats often use breadcrumbs and batters that contain gluten. You can still enjoy crispy fried chicken and fish by making some simple swaps. You can use crushed nuts like almonds or make crumbs out of a gluten-free cereal. You can also bake instead of fry, which will make the dish healthier, as well.

Use Gluten-Free Condiments

Sauces and marinades like teriyaki, alfredo, or marsala can contain hidden gluten. There are ingredients that are added to thicken the sauces or to give them flavor, and these often contain gluten. You can easily swap these out for gluten-free varieties that you find in the grocery store. Just be sure to always read the labels! Yeast and "natural flavors" are found in a lot of these items.

Use Alternative Core Ingredients

You can enjoy "pasta" that's not really pasta and put a sandwich on a "bun" that's not really a bun. Try using spaghetti squash or spiralizing a zucchini for a healthy, gluten-free pasta dish, or wrap up your sandwich in a piece of lettuce instead of a bun. You'll have a naturally gluten-free dish that doesn't require any recipe substitutions or experiments.

Eating gluten-free doesn't have to be difficult. You can easily make any recipe gluten-free by simply following these basic tips.

How do you make recipes gluten-free? Share your tips in the comments!

About the Author:

Bridget Sandorford is a freelance food and culinary writer, where recently she’s been researching culinary arts schools in Michigan. In her spare time, she enjoys biking, painting and working on her first cookbook.

No Fail Barbecue Beef - Guest Post by 365 Days of Slow Cooking

2013-03-18T07:30:00.000-04:00

This awesome 7 Ingredient recipe for "No Fail Barbecue Beef" comes from guest blogger, Karen Peterson of 365 Days of Slow Cooking. With 7 Ingredients, you really can't go wrong!

Karen Petersen is a stay at home who began her slow cooking adventures in January 2009. She decided to try 365 different slow cooker recipes over the course of one year. She used her blog (365daysofcrockpot.com) to chart her progress and post the recipes, ratings and pictures. After the initial year of slow cooking, she continued blogging and developing new recipes. In March 2012, her cookbook "365 Days of Slow Cooking" was published. She enjoys thinking of new and innovative recipes for the slow cooker. She plans to write another cookbook in the future.

No Fail Barbecue Beef

Doesn't that look delicious?!!!! For this recipe, please head on over to 365 Days of Slow Cooking by clicking here.

Falling Into You by Jasinda Wilder - Book #Review and #Giveaway

2013-03-17T21:44:00.000-04:00

Before I begin, let me lead with a couple things.....

Jasinda Wilder is a very dear friend of mine and is an amazingly talented author.

*This book contains strong language and sexual content, so the book is not intended for those under 18 or those offended by this type of nature. Please do not read ahead if this type of thing might offend you.

Now, with that being said.....this is one of the most amazing books I have ever read!

Even though Jasinda is my friend, she pulled me in a long time ago when she started her Big Girls Series and then really grabbed me when she wrote Wounded. When I read Falling Into You.....I melted! What a BEAUTIFUL Book!!!!

If you've ever been loved...
If you've ever been in love...
If you ever hope to be loved...
If you've ever been hurt...
If you've ever loss someone you love...
If you've ever been scared...
If you've ever felt alone...
If you've ever felt guilty...
If you've ever felt a burden...
If you've ever felt like you can't feel any lower...
If you've ever felt like you can't feel....
Then this book is for you.

There were so many aspects of this book I could relate to. I don't want to spoil anything for you because the twists and turns in this book are meant to make you feel real, raw emotions and I'm so happy no one spoiled it for me before I read it. Grab your tissues, pull up a blanket, read and let yourself feel the beauty of this book. Did I mention the sex in this book? Jasinda's way with words are amazing! So eloquently written.

I'm sure Jasinda must have a continuation of this book planned for the future......can't wait to see what's next for Nell.

You can find this book in the following places:

Amazon US click here.

Amazon UK click here.

Barnes and Noble click here.

Kobo click here.

iTunes click here.

Now.....it's GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!!! Jasinda has graciously offered 3 awesome prizes!

1 lucky winner will win a $25 Amazon Gift Card plus a signed copy of Falling Into You.
2 winners will win a $10 Amazon Gift Card plus a signed copy of Falling Into You.

Rules and Conditions: You must enter the giveaway below through the Giveaway Tool. You must be 18 or older to enter and a U.S. Resident. Prize winners will be contacted via email and will have 48 hours to respond and claim their prize before a new winner is chosen.

*Disclosure: I am not being compensated for this giveaway. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may differ from others'.

Entry -Form

Healthy Cooking With Your Slow Cooker - Guest Post

2013-03-13T21:28:00.000-04:00

Healthy Cooking With Your Slow Cooker

Planning meals can be stressful enough. Why add more pressure with hard-to-prepare meals when a recipe can be prepared in the morning - letting your slow cooker do the work for you all day long? You can even place everything in the slow cooker the day before, cover and put in the refrigerator overnight, to begin the slow cooking first thing in the morning.

You may only think of your slow cooker for stews and soups, but it can be a useful tool when it comes to preparing delicious, easy and healthy meals for your any gathering. Slow cookers can be used for a number of different dishes, from roasts to seafood to yummy desserts. Using your slow cooker allows you the opportunity to put a little twist on your old favorites - finding you like them even better! Here are a few ideas and tips to get you thinking about how to incorporate the slow cooker this season:

Brunch: Try a Breakfast Bake with eggs, bacon (turkey for a healthier option, cheese (low-fat preferred) and your favorite veggies. Baking in a slow cooker can be slightly tricky but doable. Make sure to grease the pot before adding the ingredients. You will also want to lift and rotate the insert halfway through the baking to ensure even cooking.

The Main Course: Although most meat does not need browning, doing so will add a more developed taste to your dish. Ground beef and turkey should always be browned before adding to a slow cooker, as a dull gray color can make your meal look less appetizing. Wait until cooking is nearly finished to season your dish. Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking, as they can become blackened if cooked for very long.

Veggies cook slower than most meat, so they need to go on the bottom. Place meat on top of root veggies, like carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, celery and onions. Veggies that add flavor, such as peppers and tomatoes need to be added at the end – about half hour prior to serve.

To speed up the thicken of sauces with flour or cornstarch at the end of cooking, increase heat to high and cook for an additional 20 to 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can drain juices from the pot and stir in corn starch. Boil the juices in a sauce pan on the stove top, stirring to keep smooth. Return to pot when ready.

Sides and Sauces: Glazed carrots, roasted potatoes, sauteed brussel sprouts can all be made easily in the crock pot. Using your slow cooker for side dishes can free up space in your oven if you have multiple dishes to prepare. For sauces, think cranberry sauce or low-fat creamy sauces for meat or seafood. If you do plan on using a recipe that contains milk, cheese or other dairy products, be sure to add them at the end of cooking. Condensed soups can be substituted for milk and can cook for extended times.

Whatever is on your family meal menu, consider using your slow cooker to make things a little easier for any occasion!

Guest post by Jennifer Nordwall, freelancer for EverydayHealth.com and its recipe and calorie counter tools (http://www.everydayhealth.com/calorie-counter.aspx).

Crock Pot Chicken Chow Mein ala Mamma Maria - Guest Post from Mamma Maria's La Cucina

2013-03-05T21:40:00.000-05:00

One of my absolute downfalls is Chineese food! I love a good Chineese take-out! Chicken Chow Mein is one of my favorite dishes. I made a healthy version of this a while back, but this looks sinful and delicious! Personally, I can't wait to try it! You can find Mamma Maria's recipes on her Facebook page, so go give her a "like!"

A little bit about Mamma Maria......At the age of 10, Maria began cooking with her father and quickly developed a love for it! She enjoys mix-matching different spices and ingredients in different combinations to make unique tastes. Maria is a work at home mommy who LOVES to cook! Lucky for us, Mamma Maria has agreed to share several of her slow cooker recipes with us over the next few months! I'm excited to share the first one with you!

Crock Pot Chicken Chow Mein ala Mamma Maria

Ingredients :
1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts , cut thin
1 bunch of celery, chopped and leaves reserved for use in dish
4 onions, peeled and sliced thin
1 8ounce container mushrooms, sliced & chopped
3 green onions , chopped
3 garlic cloves, chopped fine
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can chicken gravy
1 can bean sprouts , drained
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon parsley flakes
1/2 cup water
1 Tablespoon soy sauce
additional & optional ingredients
steamed rice
chow mein noodles
green onion - optional topping
sesame seeds - optional
1 carrot, using a peeler add carrot curls to the vegetable portion of the recipe

Directions:

Slice your chicken thin, add 1 teaspoon soy sauce, s&p to taste, pinch of garlic & onion powders and set aside allowing the chicken to marinate so to speak.

Proceed to wash cut, chop all vegetables. Once finished turn the crock pot on high for 6 hours or low for 8 hours. Add the chicken , the scallions , mushrooms and the garlic, onions & celery. DONT forget the celery leaves !! They give such a wonderful added flavor !

Stir the mixture, then add the spices and the gravy & cream of chicken soup, the 1 Tablespoon soy sauce and 1/2 cup water, mix well.

Cover & cook 6 hours on high. In the last 5 minutes add the drained bean sprouts and stir together !

Serves about 6 adults , maybe more.

Mamma Maria has step-by-step pictures on her Facebook Page, so be sure to check out the original post!

Slow Cooker Chili - Guest Blog Post by "The Crazy Nuts Mom"

2013-03-03T08:04:00.002-05:00

I LOVE Chili! Especially at this time of year, those of us in the cold weather climates need a little warming up! This simple Recipe from Regina of The Crazy Nuts Mom has very few ingredients and steps. It would definitely be something you can quickly get into your crock, and you might not even have to take a trip to the grocery store!

Regina Sober is the owner of The Crazy Nuts Mom and has been blogging since April 2011. She is a married mom of two children (7 year old daughter and 5 year old son). She is passionate about helping others stretch their budget and make the most of their own lives by learning how to use coupons, get out of debt and live a full life.

The Crazy Nuts Mom is a family friendly website that oﬀers information on cost savings through the use of couponing, discounts and frugal finds to help people live a fuller life within their budget, along with giving back. The Crazy Nuts Mom also shares life as a mom with family cooking tips and recipes, gardening and life stories of being a mom and the challenges of being a parent.

You can find her at www.thecrazynutsmom.com.

Slow Cooker Chili

Doesn't that look yummy?! The recipe can be found here. After you make it, come on back and tell me how you liked it!

Winner Announced! Little Ways You Can Involve Your Children in the Everyday Parts of Life Guest Post for Jen and Barb Mom Life #MomLife

2013-02-25T23:06:00.000-05:00

And the Winner of the $25 Visa Gift Card for Tweeting a response to the video on my original post is:

@ErikaMyers

Congrats!

You have 48 hours to contact me via twitter or at ABusyCrockPotMom@yahoo.com or a new winner will be chosen.

New York Pizza Dip - Hamilton Beach Recipe

2013-02-24T21:56:00.000-05:00

This New York Pizza dip would make a great addition to any party, or just a fun family night appetizer! Pizza.....as a dip.....made in the slow cooker?!!!!!! YES PLEASE!!!!!!

Doesn't that look delicious?!!!!

For this EASY, Kid-Friendly Recipe, please click here.

For more great Hamilton Beach slow cooker recipes, click here.

* Disclaimer: I am being compensated for this post. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may differ from others.

Chicken Curry - Guest Post by Josette

2013-02-24T12:56:00.001-05:00

One of our long-time followers has come up with a delicious recipe to share with us! It's something I've yet to make in my Slow Cooker, but now that I have this recipe, it shall be in there soon!

Here is Josette's post for you:

Hi! My name is Josette, I am a busy mom of two and a middle school teacher in Northern Virginia. Keeping my busy family fed means that the crock pot in my friend. It has a permanent place on my kitchen counter. I hope you enjoy this Crock Pot Chicken Curry as much as we do!

Crock Pot Chicken Curry

Ingredients:

1 small bunch scallions, coarsely chopped

1 inch ginger, peeled and grated

2 large garlic cloves

1 T red pepper flakes

1/2 cup cilantro leaves

2 rounded tablespoons curry powder

¾ cup chicken stock

1 ½ lbs chicken thigh (thawed)

1/2 cup chunky peanut butter

1 cup Greek yogurt

Directions:

Place chicken into crock pot. In a blender mix together ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, cilantro, curry powder, chicken stock, and yogurt. Then pour over the chicken. On top of that mixture, add the chunky peanut butter and scallions. Cook on LOW for about 6 hours. Serve over basmati rice.

Once you've made this yummy sounding recipe, come on back and leave a comment! Tell us how it was! Thanks again for sharing this with us, Josette!

Staying Safe in the Kitchen - Some helpful tips!

2013-02-22T21:54:00.000-05:00

As I'm in my kitchen cooking more and more, I now realize how important it is to have first aid supplies available and close by! Just a couple weeks ago, I was chopping some onions and my knife slipped. I was a bit worried because the cut was pretty deep. Fortunately, I knew how important first aid kits were and had one near by.

Some accidents just happen, but it's important to be mindful of everything you do in the kitchen. Here are some of my tips on staying safe in the kitchen...

TIPS:

Always wear closed-toe shoes in the kitchen! If a sharp object drops, you'll want your toes protected!
Keep pan handles turned in or over the counter. If you have children, you don't want them grabbing the handle of something hot and it falling on them. Even if you don't have children, someone could walk by and accidentally run into that handle and be injured.
When chopping an onion, keep your finger tips curled inward, so your knuckles bend outward. This will prevent you from cutting your precious finger tips!
Make sure to properly disinfect all areas and surfaces where you are preparing raw meat. This includes your hands.
If you have children, keep childproof locks on all your cupboards so that children don't pull things out of your cupboards and injure themselves.
It's less dangerous to cut with a sharp knife than a dull knife, so keep those knives sharp.
If you're working with an appliance with blades, make sure it is unplugged before you go near the blades!
Don't wear long or baggy sleeves. Those could catch on fire :(

There are lots of other things you can do to be safe in the kitchen, but as I said before, accidents do happen....even to the best of us! So....what's that expression? "Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst?" Make sure you have a first aid kit near by so you're prepared "for the worst!"

*Disclosure: I was compensated in exchange for writing this dedicated post. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may differ from others'.