Cooking at Café D

Quick and Tasty Couscous Dinner (Vegetarian, too!)

2012-01-26T19:04:00.009-06:00

Simple easy dinner inspiration.
Can we be honest?

In our home sometimes the violin lessons, track meets or church youth group take precedence over the homemade parmesan bread I would like to make. And, Greek pastitsio with sauce that cooks for hours and messing with paper-thin phyllo dough to make baklava won't be happening either.

Sometimes I'm looking for food that's quick, easy, tasty...and in my freezer and pantry. If I can make it in 30 minutes or less, I'm smiling. What if I told you that this meal is vegetarian? Are you smiling now, too?

Here's the team.
The Morningstar Chicken Patties are a staple in our home. (And, no this isn't a paid endorsement!) You've heard me talk about them before since I use them all the time in my Sizzler's Malibu chicken taste-alike recipe.

Here's the secret...they really aren't chicken. So, if you are looking for a "Meatless Monday" dinner, this is a nice option.

(My husband seriously loves these patties. They are perfect as a meatless Chicken Parmigiana, too. We wait for a super sale, save up coupons, then buy in bulk when they go on sale.)

After the fake-out chicken, we have the basil and herb couscous. Quick and easy. I mix a teaspoon of the herbs mix in the veggies.

Which veggies? The Green Giant antioxidant blend. Tossing in a little extra butter and a tad of garlic powder makes 'em even better.

Preheat the oven, toss the veggies in the microwave, couscous in a small pan. Doesn't get much easier than that. If you try it, let me know.

So, where the Friday FREE-FOR-ALL been?
Well, it's on hiatus for now. There are just too many projects and recipes I have in the works right now. Things I'm really excited about! Like the Jimmy John's kitchen we're making!

If you need more inspiration, check out the How Quick (Meals) button in the sidebar. And, of course there's How Healthy and How Tasty, too.

So, what is your "go-to" meal for something quick and healthy?
Click on the blue button and share your favorite meals!

10 Easy Steps to Finding Your Perfect Paint Color (Our Jimmy John's Kitchen Redesign - Part 2)

2012-01-23T00:02:00.013-06:00

When is the last time you chose a paint color?
Was it easy?
Did it take forever to choose a color?

We recently let you in on a secret - we're turning our kitchen into a Jimmy John's! You can read about that in Part 1.

A while back told you that if you look at the colors we've chosen they look like a banana split.

Yet, they're perfect on the walls!

Life is too short to live with a room color you hate.
This is a lesson I learned after 5 years in a strawberry pink room.
(No joke.)

Here's what I do so I:
Don't have to live with a color I hate.
Don't have to buy a second color.
Don't have to re-paint a room.

1. I usually go to the store and find 10 or so paint chips that I like.

2. I grab 3-4 copies of the same chips.
(Yes, I'm leaving with 30-40 chips.)

3. I cut out a chip I like, times 3, and tape 'em on the back so it's one big swatch of color.

4. Repeat for the other 9 choices.

5. Tape white paper together to make a large neutral canvas and tape it to the wall in question.

6. Tape each of the 10 swatches on the paper - leaving a lot of space in between.

7. Decide whether the rooms is used more in the daylight or the nighttime.

8. Look at the colors during the most used time. Remove the obvious "no's."

9. The next day, look at them a second time during the most used time.
(Narrow down the choices to 2 or 3 you can live with.)

10. Look at the remaining 2 or 3 chips during the OTHER time of the day.
(Choose the pretty one and buy it!)

NEVER. EVER. PICK A PAINT IN THE STORE.
Even using the fancy thingy they provide with the various types of lighting.
You might be sure it's the right color. Swatch it first. Trust me.

I've been searching high and low for my "in progress shots of our kitchen re-do. (We're 97% done now.) When I find the pics, I'll post em. The kitchen reveal is next Monday! Here's the deets.

Since the choosing our colors was so important in our design,
I figured the steps would be helpful.
Were they?

How do you choose?
(Click the blue button and scroll down to comment.)

Linking to:

Sausage Gravy Recipe - Biscuits Anyone?

2012-01-17T20:49:00.010-06:00

We were lucky enough to have a whole mess of fresh Italian sausage
we needed to cook. Darn. (We love sausage.)

So, we made some Zuppa Toscana using our Olive Garden taste-alike recipe.
(We have tweaked the recipe to give it even MORE flavor. Coming soon!)

Still, we were left with lots of sausage.

Hey...
Biscuits and gravy for dinner!

Sausage Gravy

About 1 cup of cooked sausage.
2 Tb. sausage fat
2 Tb. AP flour
2 cups of warm milk, or half n half
salt and pepper

First, I heated up my sausage fat in a cast iron skillet.
Tonight my fat was a combo of about 1 Tb. sausage fat and 1 Tb. butter.
(It was pretty lean sausage.)

Mixed an equal portion of AP flour into the fat.
In this case, I used 2 tablespoons.

While my roux is cooking (only about 2 minutes) till bubbly...
Our milk (I used half n half) is warming in the microwave.
(You don't have to warm it, but the gravy will be ready sooner.)

Added in the warm milk or half n half slowly and bring to a boil.
Reserve some liquid which you can add if needed.
Reduce the heat to a low simmer, added pepper.
Wait on the salt.

Added the cooked sausage. I usually take the pan off the heat. Cast iron retains the heat and continues to warm the sausage without thickening the gravy too much. If you need to, add additional milk to loosen it up. Now, after the sausage has had time to mingle with the gravy, I taste it and add salt to taste.

Grab yer biscuits. Usually I make mine. But, tonight it was a Pilsbury night. (Yeah, I said it.) There's nothing like real buttermilk biscuits hot out of the oven. And, they're easy and cheap. But, tonight the kitchen was already a disaster. So, I didn't. (Just keeping it real.)

Here, I'll distract you...
"Oooh, look at the grayyyyveeee."

Do you make your own biscuits and gravy?

Our Kitchen Redesign - A Jimmy John's Kitchen! (Part 1)

2012-01-16T20:06:00.023-06:00

Do I have your attention, yet?
Isn't this lovely?
Talk about a "before shot," eh?

We have been redoing our kitchen ~~for a year now~~ for a while now, and it's about time we got around to blogging it! The finished kitchen will be posted in 2 weeks.

(If you want to follow the progress, you can subscribe by email or follow us via Facebook, Twitter - links are all in the sidebar for you.)

We told you how our kitchen looks like a banana split.
These are the paint colors.

I never thought I would paint my kitchen those colors.
Then again, I certainly didn't think I would get married in my 40s
and find myself with 2 wonderful step-sons.

So now my life is filled with laughter & teenagers.
And, since we're just a little wacky....

We're making our kitchen into...
A Jimmy's John's Restaurant.

Why would we re-do our kitchen into a Jimmy John's?
I guess it would help to know a bit about us.

We love JJ's.
So much that we had our wedding rehearsal catered by Jimmy John's.

Well, we didn't really have a wedding rehearsal. We had a Game Night. We booked a small rustic hotel in the woods and invited our friends to bring their favorite board games. (Did I mention it was a very small hotel? Only 9 rooms. Two levels - huge front porches.) We had a smorgasbord of Jimmy John's sammies and lots of pickles to eat while we played games. It was a hit. You get the picture - we love JJ's.

Isn't that a great front porch for a rustic hotel?
(I loved those rocking chairs!)

Next, you should know that our family values fun.
Rip roaring, laugh till your orange crush comes out of your nose, fun.

Some would call us silly.
Some (I'm sure) call us crazy.
To us, it's normal.

So, I grabbed a camera and took some pictures to see if what we had in mind might work. Here were our rough ideas. Some things turned out exactly as planned. Some morphed a bit as it went along.

We hoped for something front and center to do JJ's proud.
And, set the tone.

We weren't sure how we would pull off the tile.
After all, it's ubiquitous in the restaurants, yet tile work can be expensive,
it's labor intensive - and it would be a (fairly) permanent upgrade.

We wanted Jimmy John's style signs to bring lightheartedness.

If I could muster the courage...
Red would be a bold choice and bring energy.

(But, would it be too overpowering?
Could we REALLY paint bright red in our kitchen?)

The JJ's signs have such color.
Maybe we could give them a big red backdrop?
Make the signs - pop?

Oh my! That's really red!

Those were our plans - along with incorporating lots of stainless steel like the JJ's stores have. Oh, and we had pretty much zero dollars to work with. Easy, right?

Here's the good news!
We are 99 percent done!

We will be blogging the progress over the next two weeks.
We'll be revealing our finished kitchen on the January 31st.

A big thank you to a few people.
First, Donna of Funky Junk Interiors has challenged her readers to finish a room and make it Picture Perfect. She'll be hosting a series of linky parties so readers can show off their finished projects. The first party will be on the 31st.

Also, a big "thanks for the encouragement" goes to a group of ladies who is hosting Imagine the Possibilities Challenge. They formed this awesome group and encouraged others to follow suit. I'll be linking up there, too.

For those with a keen eye -
The before pics are from a second kitchen we have, identical footprint, also in need of overhaul. Our kitchen was in a similar condition. Worse, actually. You can see some yucky before shots of our half done greenish-bleck colored walls in our 15 minutes to homemade donuts post.

So, are we nuts?
Do you WANT to see our finished project?
Did anyone actually get to the bottom of this post?
I'm seriously wondering...

Friday FREE-FOR ALL! (Linky Party #7)

2012-01-13T23:09:00.003-06:00

Here are the favorites from our last party!

Oh, I almost forgot - We have a new button!
So, if you are featured below, or have been in the past,
feel free to grab a "I was Featured!" button.
(There's a button section up top.)

Gosh, what can I say about this DIY Vintage Trunk Turned Coffee Table from
Simply Simplisticated. It's gorgeous. It's amazing. *swoon* *thud*

These Pesto Pinwheels from All That Brings Joy
make me wish the holidays were still around.
Of course I pinned them to our Food, Glorious Food Board
so I can find them when I need 'em.
The pesto pinwheels...

Remind me of the Kalamata and Feta Pinwheels we make all the time.
Quick, delicious. Be sure to make more than you expect to need.
They disappear in a snap.

One person's "ornament" is another person's everyday decor.
These Pinecone Ornaments made from maps - make me smile :)
Nice job, Turtles and Tails! So, cute. Creative. Simple.
I might make some of these, just to hang here and there
to to remind us of our travels.

Our family loves to take trips,
hence our travel blog, Feasting on Americana. (Geesh, I really need to show blog some love.)
Anyway...I have a special love for maps.

For Christmas we did a Map Star Garland - which has become our rustic travel garland...
and is simply hanging from the knob of the standing lamp in our living room.
LOL.

Raise of hands...how many of you made a prediction to eat healthier in the New Year?
Yeah, me too. This Hot Curried Fruit from Becki's Whole Life is a nice change of pace.
I wouldn't have thought to spice things up like this - I'm glad she linked up to our party.

If you are in the market for other healthy-ish recipes,
you can hop over to our How Healthy category in our sidebar.

Okay...now, It's Time to Party!

~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~

What should you link up?
Recipes! Craft or Home Decor Tutorials! Teachable moments!
But, no direct links to Etsy shops, please...
Instead, you can link up a post which featured your Etsy shop!

Be sure to link up your permalink - not just your blog.
What's a permalink? For example:
http://www.cookingatcafed.com/2009/04/grab-our-button.html
NOT - http://www.cookingatcafed.com

Link back to us!

Please put our "Friday FREE-FOR-ALL" button
or a link to our blog on your post.

If you are a new follower please let me know!
We love new followers!
Keep in touch with us via Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest,
Google Friend Connect, RSS, or Email subscriber, carrier pigeon...)

Please drop by a few folks who link up - and leave comments!
We all enjoy comments, right?
Speaking of comments...
Occasionally, you will see "Comments Disabled" on my blog.
Don't believe it!

In that case, just look for the purple bar near the bottom
that says "Click here to comment."

Tell the World!
Go ahead and Facebook, Twittter, Pinterest - let that carrier pigeon loose!
The more people know about the party...
The more people see your post!

Not really sure what a Linky Party is?
No worries!
Donna at Funky Junk has written simple step-by step directions for you!
Check 'em out!

Express Scripts & Walgreens - The Scoop

2012-01-13T17:54:00.004-06:00

This post brought to you by Walgreens. All opinions are 100% mine.

Got Questions?
Chances are good you've heard stories in the media about Walgreens and Express Scripts. For the past year, Walgreens has negotiated with Express Scripts for a new contract to continue as part of its pharmacy provider network. Those negotiations were unsuccessful, and the contract expired on Dec. 31.

But, what does that really mean?
Does it affect you?

Head to the Walgreens and Express Script AP article to find the info you are looking for.
Here's a snapshot - See the link above for the details.

Only patients with certain prescription insurance plans managed by Express Scripts are impacted. It is best to check with your local Walgreens pharmacist to find out for sure if you’re impacted. Patients also can check the back of their prescription insurance card – if it has Express Scripts’ name there, then they may be affected. If it doesn’t say Express Scripts, then they are not affected.

How is Walgreens trying to Help Their Patients?
Among the steps Walgreens is taking to minimize the disruption is offering a special discount on annual membership for its Prescription Savings Club.

So, what's the Walgreens Prescription Savings Club?

In a nutshell, For $10 a year, a family membership covers everyone in your immediate family, including a spouse, dependents 22 and younger and pets. Individuals may join for $5. Join and receive discount prices on your prescriptions.

Other benefits include:
* Savings on more than 8,000 brand-name and all generic medications
* Discounts on flu shots, pet prescriptions, nebulizers and diabetic supplies
* Bonuses when you purchase Walgreens brand products and photofinishing services
Click the link above for additional details.

You can also get the latest info through:
Walgreens on Twitter or Walgreens on Facebook.

I appreciate the convenience of my local Walgreens. My family trusts them, too. Years ago a Walgreens pharmacist found a possible drug interaction in my records and alerted my Doctor. That's why I like Walgreens.

Get the info and see if you are affected. Be sure you getting the real story. After all, nothing is more important than the health of your family.

2012 Home Goals

2012-01-10T19:23:00.018-06:00

BHG

2012 Home Goals.

Last year, we didn't set goals. Somehow we got a bunch of stuff done. But, I wonder how much more we could have accomplished if we had actually talked about it.

BTW, that's not my kitchen.
(I wish...)

Our kitchen is coming along nicely.
If all goes well, you'll see it by then end of the month.

I gave a sneak peek during our 31 Days to a More Organized Life series.
I'm pretty excited about the upcoming reveal.

So, today we sat down and talked.
My husband was ~~just thrilled~~ really patient as I asked questions about what worked and didn't in the various rooms. We talked about where we wanted to spend more time. And, we found some things that got in the way of chilling out and relaxing together. (One of our family values.)

Here's some of our goals.

Kitchen
Finish hanging the various decor
Finally blog the transformation

BHG

Living Room & Dining Room
Re-hang the curtains
Spray the old picture frame
Make a large blackboard
Replace the recliner with a new(er) chair
Maybe hang the TV on wall
Get an A/B switch for the DVD/Wii
Paint table black

BHG

Bathroom
Fix the ceiling (don't ask...)
Hang some shelves in creative space

Source

Hang new rod
Hang shelves
Re-paint the dresser
Purge and reduce the amount of family storage in his closet
Remove the wallpaper
Paint

Source

Younger teen
Hang new rod
Get smaller dresser
Paint room
Reduce the amount of family storage in his closet

Now, we might notget all of these done.
Yet, they're good goals to have and I'm looking forward to the progress.
Want to see what others have in mind?
Head to the Nester's to see.

Share YOUR 2012 Home Goals below!

Our Winter Mantel

2012-01-10T17:40:00.004-06:00

Well, the Christmas decorations are down.
Time to get back to normal.

You've seen our Autumn Mantel, our Road-Trip Inspired Mantel, and our Christmas Mantel.

Here's our Winter mantel.

Oh, wait...
EEK!

You can see that horrible job I did putting up the curtains and the old rod hanger up on that pic above. Oh, well. Life happens.

There ya go.
The magic of cropping.

I picked up the cute little frame with window shutters at a resale shop for a sweet $1.79. Love it. The milk glass is vintage and the cute tree was a nice 50% off deal at Michael's. (It's especially nice because it fits even though our faux mantel is really narrow.)

So, what's on your mantel?
Or, even faux mantel.

Schedule Your Next Doc Appt Online! Here's...Zoc Doc

2012-01-09T10:53:00.006-06:00

SUNDAYS?!
Can you see that?
Doctors and dentists available on...Sundays?

"Okay, tell me more," I thought.

So, here's the deal.
There's this new website called http://www.zocdoc.com.
And, I think it might be worth checking out...

IF:
1. You have a busy schedule.
2. You like info upfront.
3. Like you comparison shopping.
4. You sometimes need an appointment RIGHT NOW.
5. You like the flexibility of choosing your appointment date from a list.
6. Oh, so many more reasons...

I headed to Zoc Doc to check it out.
Just for grins I chose dentists. (Yeah, I might be having a bit of an issue. Who me? Nah.) I plopped in my zip code, easily chose my insurance plan from the drop down list and poof! Lots of dentists to choose from in my area.

Okay, so there are lots to choose from.
Do they accept my insurance?
Oh, wait. I already chose that option so they take mine.

Okay, so how about availability?
Well, lookee there. Lots of spots open this week.
Even today. Even this Sunday.

How about background and education, Board Certifications, etc.?
I clicked on a cardiologist and yep.
There was a listing of his board certifications, where he went to school, the whole package.

Lastly, how about feedback?
Yep. You can see what others have written and leave some yourself. And, they give ratings based on "Bedside manner," "Average Wait Time," and "Average Recommendation."

Here's my bottom line.

You and I know that there are few things as important as your family's health. And, I can only speak for myself. I love data. I love options. I hate sitting on the phone trying to schedule my next annual exam or teeth cleaning. I hate hearing, "We don't do cleanings on Saturday." "The next evening appointment we have is 2 months from now on a Friday." Ack!

I usually want to pull the receptionist's screen towards me...so I CAN SEE what options are truly available. That's is what this feels like.

I'm kinda excited.
Yeah, I know, you can tell - lol.

For those looking to keep that New Year's resolution to eat better and stay healthy, you might want to check out their Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ZocDoc for recipes, quick tips and giveaways.

Now, this was a sponsored review and there will be a disclaimer. You know your family and what works for them. I assure you, my excitement is just that. This is a good fit for us.

I was selected for this sponsored review by the Clever Girls Collective. To learn more about ZocDoc, please visit their website.

Friday FREE-FOR ALL! (Linky Party #6)

2012-01-06T10:08:00.009-06:00

Here are the favorites from our last party!

This Ice Wreath from Inspiring Pretty makes my heart joyful.
Perfect outside decor for winter months.

It reminds me of a Cranberry Wreath we featured a while back.
Simple. Colorful. Fun.

This Homemade Mercury Glass from Art Is Beauty...wow.
So creative - and inexpensive!

One of the tasty recipes posted in our last party was
a healthy Brown Rice Pudding from Raising Dieter. Yum.

While the holidays are behind us,
there's still time to pin our plans for next year!
(Do you Pinterest?)

This Dictionary Garland from Make It, Give It is so inspirational.
She has a whole LOT of ideas. *swoon*

Okay, it's Time to Party!

~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~

Please put our "Friday FREE-FOR-ALL" button
or a link to our blog on your post.

Martini Madness 3: The Minty Marshmallow

2011-12-29T13:00:00.009-06:00

It's almost New Year's Eve!
Are you ready for our third installment of Martini Madness?!

Today we have an original concoction.
We call it...

The Minty Marshmallow!

1.5 oz. Marshmallow Vodka*
1.5 oz. Peppermint Mocha creamer
.5 oz. Buttershots

* We used Pinnacle, but Smirnoff makes a delicious "Fluffed Marshmallow," too.

Shake in a Boston shaker with a little crushed ice.
This is perfect as a cocktail over the rocks, too.

For a little extra chocolate love,
you could line the glass like with did in The Perfect Pumpkin Martini.

Check out our whole series.

Martini Madness #1 - The Perfect Pumpkin Martini
Martini Madness #2 - The Gingerbread Martini
Martini Madness #3 - The Minty Marshmallow

Linking up to:

What Was in Your Stocking? Here's What I Got...

2011-12-28T19:46:00.006-06:00

Folks know that I'm a vintage loving gal.
And, while I adore many true vintage pieces,
I also have a penchant for retro reproductions.

And, of course, chocolate doesn't stink...

Dear husband surprised me with vintage style candies in my Christmas stocking!

What did you get in yours?
Press the purple button below and share :)

Our Christmas Message To You!

2011-12-23T11:37:00.007-06:00

Dear friends,
Well, it's upon us.
It's Christmas - what many of us have been longing for.

With the new year approaching I got to thinking about the past year.
It's been a good one.

Our blog has undergone design changes.
And, we've clarified our mission!

At Cooking at Cafe D we are frugal with the pennies - lavish with the love.
Providing tasty meals and decor tips - with a focus on the family.

And, we created categories for you, like "How Tasty" and "How Organized" and lined them all up in the sidebar.

Many folks connected with us on our facebook page, twitter, and it's been wonderful sharing pins with you on pinterest!

We tried our hand at homemade ravioli and found it good. (But, it wasn't quick as easy as when we tried spaetzle. Somehow we managed to announce the colors for our new kitchen - yet never posted it. D'oh! (Adding to my to do list..)

We survived a Chicago Snowpocaclypse. We started our Featured Artist Friday with interviews and giveaways. Gosh, how I adore those artists! (We haven't had one of those for a while. Keep an eye out next year, you just never know!)

Oh, and speaking of Giveaways, we were excited and honored to host a dress giveaway from the wonderful folks at Shabby Apple.

Our Friday FREE-FOR-ALL! has given YOU a chance to shine - showing us your recipes, decor & craft tutorials and even teachable moments. I just love featuring your work!

Together, we learned 25 ways to wear a scarf and a quick tip on how to be sure your email address is easy to find when you comment.

In October, we began our 31 Day Series 31 Minutes to a More Organized Life. (This series changed my life. Really. Not only did it make me buckle down and write each day, it also made me realize how much I really want to share with you - and learn from you, too.)

Our first couple of drinks were featured in Martini Madness - and we've got more in the wings for you!

And, we rounded things off with our Christmas Home Tour 2011 so you could see our handmade and vintage ornaments...and our faux mantle :)

Looking back has made me MORE EXCITED THAN EVER to have you here. And, I can't wait to bring many more tips and recipes to you in 2012.

From our family to yours,
May God Bless you.
Have a very merry Christmas!

Linking up to:

5 Minute Danishes with recipe!

2011-12-23T08:39:00.005-06:00

At Christmas, I look for quick and easy recipes.
Here's one of my favorites - a warm treat filled with your favorite sweets.

Our 5 Minute Crescent Kolachkies are a hit every time.
You can find the simple recipe there.

It's Friday.
Usually we hold our Friday FREE-FOR-ALL!.
We're taking the day off to make pastitsio and baklava.

Want more inspiration?
Check out our How Tasty section in the sidebar
or one of our many other categories.

What are YOUR easy Go-To appetizers or snacks?
Click the blue button below and tell us in the comments!

We Have a WInner! (Was it You?!)

2011-12-22T09:49:00.006-06:00

We have a...Winner!

This lovely Boogie Woogie dress will soon be on it's way to...

Kelly D. Saver! *ding* *ding*

(I honestly thought that was the name of a fun website offering frugal fare.
Apparently it's a real name. How cool is that?!)

Kelly, I've sent you an e-mail so we can get your pertinent info.

Don't forget!
Just for our readers -
Use coupon code CafeD10off and
Get 10% off your Shabby Apple order right now!

(As they say on TV - It's for a limited time, don't delay.)

5 Quick and Easy Holiday Centerpieces!

2011-12-21T11:17:00.010-06:00

Today is the last day to enter our giveaway.
Don't miss it!

Hopefully, by now all of your mantles are decorated -
whether real or faux.
And, *fingers-crossed* your stockings are hung,
with brown-paper packages laying under your tree.

Before you tuck away into your pumpkin or gingerbread martinis
I wonder...

Have you planned your holiday centerpiece?
There's still time!
Here are some simple tricks.

I dunno about you, but I pulled out our vintage Christmas plates
with the matching glasses only to discover I had no centerpiece planned.

Do you Pinterest?
It's so easy to get ideas there!

These Cinnamon Stick Candles Holders take only a glue gun.
Cassie, from Hi Sugarplum, has a trick..
Glue the sticks to each other, instead of the glass!

Donna, from FunkyJunk, reminds us that
anything we love can take center stage.
Here she uses vintage bottles and her twiggy garland
to raise the spirits of her stairway.
The same technique could easily be used for your centerpiece!

Silver, pewter, fruit, burlap -
anything that makes us smile can be our focus.
Carol at Raised in Cotton uses pomegranates which are perfect for Christmas!

Lastly, these simple burlap vases from Jason Home make me grin.
I'll be making a set of these before the weekend.
(They won't be as pretty as Jason's, though!)

What's your simple go-to for centerpieces?
Click the blue bar below...
Share your ticks in our comments.

21 Last Minute Gifts - Free Shipping - Tax Deductible!

2011-12-20T06:05:00.002-06:00

This year, someone on our list is getting a gift from Heifer International.
(Shh, don't tell. They don't know yet!)

Why do I love Heifer?
(And, why do I write about them year after year.)

Easy-breazy last minute gifts! Free shipping! Tax deductible!
You can give someone a FLOCK OF CHICKS!

Seriously, I love Heifer because...
They help families help themselves.
They blend 3 concepts:

"Teaching a Man to Fish for Himself"
"Paying it Forward" and
"They Tell 2 Friends..."

(If you recognize the commercial,
press the purple button and tell me in comments.)

You see, each recipient of a goat, or lamb, or honeybees...
Feeds his family with the product...
Milk, cheese, money from wool, honey, wax, etc.

THEN - AND THIS IS IMPORTANT -
Each Heifer family agrees to Pass on the Gift of
An animal offspring and training to another family in need...
Who then promise... to pass it along...and along...

The Heifer International Gift Catalog is amazing!

We have someone in our family,
who will really like this gift.
How about you?

Is there someone on your list who:
Has everything?
Wants nothing.
Would give you this shirt off their back?

Here's a video which tells a little about the organization.
And, if you DO decide to give a Heifer Gift this year,
please press the purple button below and
let us know in the comments so we can celebrate with you!

Our Golden Mantel - Spot the Vintage Christmas Bear!

2011-12-16T23:55:00.009-06:00

Happy Saturday.

While I've already shown you
our Christmas Home Tour 2011...
and our
road-trip inspired Christmas garland....

I finally completed the mantel I had pictured in my head.
Well, sorta completed.
Maybe.

Vintage cranberry glass, reproduction gold mercury glass candle holders.
And, I finally found a tall tree that isn't too wide for the mantel!

I think there still might be a vintage cheese box in store for it.
We'll see.

Such a cute vintage bear :)

Linking to:

Friday FREE-FOR ALL! (Linky Party #5)

2011-12-15T19:46:00.007-06:00

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First things first.
Have you entered our amazing giveaway?
You do not want to miss this!
~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~

So this is our 5th party.
Are you having fun looking at what others are up to?

If you want this party to continue,
please let us know in the comments
or be sure to link up a post or 2.

Speaking of comments...
Occasionally, you will see "Comments Disabled."
Don't believe it!

In that case, just look for the purple bar near the bottom
that says "Click here to comment."

And, if you want to pass along the word via FB and Twitter...
Well, let's just say I can pass along a good word to a jolly old fat man for you :)

Okay!
On to this week's favorites!

Aren't these silhouettes amazing?
And, there's NO PHOTOSHOP involved!
Thank you for the detailed tutorial from Ann-Kay Home.

Emily, from Musings From The North,
got our her handy glue gun and
went to work creating this NO SEW Tree Skirt.
I just love the burlap.
(If I ever get my pics posted, you might see my no sew tree skirt, too!)

Lastly, these Christmas Coasters from Vicky
at Mess for Less look both easy and fun!
I might have to try a few with vintage-inspired paper.

No recipes last week?!
Guess everyone was too busy decorating for the holidays!
I bet this week might be a big recipe week for the Linky Party.
We'll see!

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Are you ready to scroll down and link up?!

What can you link up?
Recipes! Craft or Home Decor Tutorials! Teachable moments!
But, no direct links to Etsy shops, please...
Instead, you can link up a post which featured your Etsy shop!

Be sure to link up your permalink - not just your blog.
What's a permalink? For example:
http://www.cookingatcafed.com/2009/04/grab-our-button.html
NOT - http://www.cookingatcafed.com

Link back to us!

Please put our "Friday FREE-FOR-ALL" button
or a link to our blog on your post.

If you are a new follower please let me know!
We love new followers!
Keep in touch with us via Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest,
Google Friend Connect, RSS, or Email subscriber, carrier pigeon...)

Please drop by a few folks who link up - and leave comments!
We all enjoy comments, right?

Tell the World!
Go ahead and Facebook, Twittter, Pinterest - let that carrier pigeon loose!
The more people know about the party...
The more people see your post!

Not really sure what a Linky Party is?
No worries!
Donna at Funky Junk has written simple step-by step directions for you!
Check 'em out!

GIVEAWAY! Hurry - Win This Amazing Dress!

2011-12-14T11:57:00.011-06:00

You can win this dress - Seriously!

Shabby Apple contacted us and asked if our readers would like to win a dress.
I responded with a resounding, "YES!"

I mean, come on, I'm already familiar with their stuff. Shabby Apple offers such cute women's dresses! Some are flirty, others are sleek and stylish. I just adore the vintage ones!

This is Spanish Steps - it makes me think of Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday. *Swoon*

Shabby Apple even even offers maternity dresses. (How cool is that?!)
And, if you have a wee one or need a gift, Shabby Apple also has little girl dresses.

Want special promotions and exclusive discounts?
Be sure you to *like* the Shabby Apple Facebook page!

This darling Inca Trail dress reminds me of our honeymoon in Arizona.
Love it.

Darling readers - What's in it for YOU?!

Just for our readers - use coupon code CafeD10off and get 10% off right now!
(As they say on TV - It's for a limited time, don't delay.)

Now for the GIVEAWAY!

This Boogie Woogie dress has vintage glamor...
Giving you a "Little Black Dress" with style!

The folks at Shabby Apple were sweet to let me choose it for you.
(I'll be asking Santa for mine. I've been good - really, I have!)

GIVEAWAY DETAILS!

The winner must have a U.S. shipping address.
There will be no exchanges for the winning dress - The Boogie Woogie.

Contest runs through Wednesday, December 21st at 8 p.m. (Central)
One winner will be randomly chosen and contacted via e-mail and have 48 hours to respond.

TO ENTER:
To win this amazing dress, simply visit shabbyapple.com,
then comment below telling me what your favorite dress is.

Note:
Occasionally, you will see "Comments Disabled " Don't you believe it!
In that case, just look for the purplish bar near the bottom of the post that says
"Click here to comment." Then just scroll down, and comment your heart out.

WANT 4 ADDITIONAL ENTRIES?

1. Like our Cooking At Cafe D Facebook page.

2. Follow our blog via Google Friend Connect or tell us how you follow.

3. Twitter - "Shabby Apple Dress - GIVEAWAY!
at http://www.cookingatcafed.com/2011/12/giveaway-hurry-win-this-amazing-dress.html"

4. Facebook status - "Shabby Apple Dress - GIVEAWAY!
at http://www.cookingatcafed.com/2011/12/giveaway-hurry-win-this-amazing-dress.html"

LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY.
Please be sure to either leave your e-mail address.
Or, be sure your e-mail address is easily found if I click on your comment.

GOOD LUCK!
Click the purple button below and tell us your favorite dress!

Smorgie - "Pin" Your Favorite RESTAURANTS!

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

This sponsorship is brought to you by Smorgie.com who we have partnered with for this promotion.

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First things first.
Have you entered our amazing giveaway?
You do not want to miss it!

(Go ahead and enter...
Then come back.
Cuz this is cool, too!)
~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~
Smorgie - heard of it?
The company asked me to check it out and give them, and you, an honest assessment.

Here's what I think.
It's gonna catch on fast.

You know that board out there where you pin recipes or home decor? (Oh, heck, it's Pinterest.) Well, I think of this as the restaurant version! (Even cooler cuz it has addresses, phone numbers, all sorts of info already there.)

You can "collect" all of your favorite restaurants into "My Places." Then, you can break them down further if you want.

Smorgie also gives you handy buttons for Facebook, Twitter, Email and Pinterest - in case you want to share your great restaurant find!

Smorgie asked for feedback.
So, here are a couple of things I noticed.

I love that you can make your own lists.
I chose "My favorites" and "Places to Try" to start off. Adding restaurants is simple. When I get more added I think I might break them down into casual or dressy. And, I think maybe I'll add a list for different family members. For example, there are places that our 14 year old wants to try. I could make him his own list of restaurants and he could add to it whenever he wanted!

When adding a restaurant, I find it's a good idea to add in the hyphens in the phone number. For the restaurants I selected, Smorgie already knew the phone numbers! But they were all one string of numbers. Since I'll probably use Smorgie when making reservations, I'm adding in the hyphens when I add the place to my list. No big deal.

There's a Friend section.
So I think you can link up your lists - If anyone wants to join, you can try searching for me at CookingAtCafeD

Try it...and tell us what you think of Smorgie!
Click on the purple button below and comment!

Our Christmas Home Tour 2011

2011-12-12T22:53:00.036-06:00

Welcome to our 2011 Christmas Home Tour.

Here's sneak peek - we're still decorating.
But, some things are just so cute I want to pass them along.

Oh, first a Public Service Announcement.
Later this week is a really nice Giveaway.
Really. Nice. Seriously.

Ready to start the tour?

If you are over 21,you can grab a Perfect Pumpkin Martini.

If you prefer, we've got a great non-alcoholic Pomegranate Granita for you.

This year our tree is mostly filled with homemade ornaments
and cute inside jokes that make us smile.
Like the hedgehog ;)

My hubby had a car nicknamed the hedgehog when we were in college.
It's a fun reminder.

The little wooden train was given to my husband when he was little.
Santa delivered it to his great-grandma's house.
(How ever does Santa know where to find us?!)

We really enjoy having a blend of old and new on our tree.

Yeah, we don't have a star on the top of our tree - or an angel.
We have a Santa Yoda Bobble-Head.
Of course, there's a back-story.
Santa Yoda goes along with...

Our Pez Christmas Tree ornament.
Remind us of...

Our crafty Pez Christmas Tree.

These little wooden birds have been around for years -
some have fared better than others.
They are so cute!

These Hallmark birds are actually new -
but have a vintagy feel to me.

Our "Visit Rock City" birdhouse is from our summer trip...
through IN, KY, TN and GA.

Since we don't have an honest-to-goodness fireplace, this will have to do.
(We love our salt dough ornaments, can ya tell?)
We do have a faux mantle, though.

This year we have a gold vintage inspired mantle.
(There's a hidden vintage Christmas Bear on it.)

More of our mantle is here.

These are our ticky-tacky trailer lights.
On our honeymoon, we stayed in an Airstream Trailer.

Can you see the tiny "Airstream" license plate?

This pair of reindeer was made for me by a dear co-worker when I was 17.
Mary, I'll always think of you when I put them out.

Tink, our Main Coon,
would like to wish you a very merry Christmas -
filled with love and laughter.

Thank you for visiting.
It's been great to have you with us.

Linking up with:

This Year's Christmas Mantle # 1

2011-12-09T20:06:00.007-06:00

First a reminder...
To visit us next week for a really nice Giveaway.
Really. Nice.
Seriously.

As in I want it for myself.
And, I might have to convince a jolly old fat man to get it for me!

This is one of our faux mantles this year.
Yeah, I took it in the dark so you can see the adorable nativity candles.
The wrought iron stocking holders were an after-Christmas special. Score!
I love the way they mirror the nativity silhouettes.

Here's a daytime shot. The antique silver tiered candy holder contains vintage Shiny-Brite ornaments. And, I'm a big fan of the grapevine tree.
The star on the wall is a new purchase from World Market. I think it will go so well with the twig garland I plan to make - using the tutorial from Donna at Funky Junk.

Speaking of awesome stuff from fellow bloggers...
Did you see the great marshmallow wreath, pine cone decor, and herb & garlic sweet potato fries we featured yesterday in our Friday FREE-FOR-ALL? The linky party is still open if you with to add something you want to share.

Who knows?
Maybe you'll be featured next Friday!

We're linking up to:

Friday FREE-FOR-ALL! (Linky Party #4)

2011-12-09T06:00:00.007-06:00

Welcome!

BE SURE...to visit us next week for a really nice Giveaway.
Really. Nice.
Seriously.
As in I want it for myself.
And, I might have to convince a jolly old fat man to get it for me!

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So this is our 4th party.
And, I'm not sure if we should continue, or not.
I think the fact that it's the holiday season means that we are all busier.
Yet, I think it's a time when we enjoy looking to see what others are doing, to inspire us.
(At least that's true for me!)

We'll try a few more weeks.
If you want this party to continue, please let us know in the comments
or be sure to link up a post or 2.

Speaking of comments...
Occasionally, you will see "Comments Disabled."
Don't believe it!

In that case, just look for the purple bar near the bottom
that says "Click here to comment."

And, if you want to pass along the word via FB and Twitter...
well, let's just say I can pass along a good word to a jolly old fat man for you :)

Okay! On to this week's favorites!

This Marshmallow Wreath
from Eclectically Vintage is such a tasty holiday adornment!

Speaking of tasty, we'll be trying these Herb & Garlic Sweet Potato Fries
from Sarah's Cucina Bella very soon!

I think Heidi from All The Brings Joy
was reading my mind with her Pine Cone Home Decor.
We have a LOT of pine cones,
and I was planning something like this.
Now I can glance at her's for tips!

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Are you ready to scroll down and link up?!

Please put our "Friday FREE-FOR-ALL" button
or a link to our blog on your post.

If you are a new follower please let me know!
We love new followers!
Keep in touch with us via Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest,
Google Friend Connect, RSS, or Email subscriber, carrier pigeon...)

Please drop by a few folks who link up - and leave comments!
We all enjoy comments, right?

Tell the World!
Go ahead and Facebook, Twittter, Pinterest - let that carrier pigeon loose!
The more people know about the party...
The more people see your post!

Not really sure what a Linky Party is? No worries!
Donna at Funky Junk has written simple step-by step directions for you!
Check 'em out!

Let's Plan a Girls' Night In!

2011-12-07T21:23:00.016-06:00

Thanks to Duncan Hines for sponsoring my writing. There's no limit to the baking possibilities, so grab your favorite Duncan Hines mix and Comstock or Wilderness fruit fillings and Bake On! www.duncanhines.com.

Ladies and Gentlemen, it's time to breathe.
If your home is anything like mine, you could use a break.

We've been running around from store to store - just to find Christmas lights! (Is it just me, or are plain old clear non-LED Christmas lights all sold out this year? We eventually found some.)

Our Ornament Tie-On Twine Balls

A Simple Plan.
The gift buying was easy. This year we're not doing any gag gifts. Only practical gifts that people will (hopefully) love. And, I'm buying mostly online.

And, this year my wrapping is a cinch. I'm using gingham craft paper from the local dollar store and twine. Done.

So, while the house is still in complete shambles, I know soon enough that the stockings will be hung by the faux mantle with care. The cookies, candies, and baked goods will be ready. And, the packages will be stacked up in the bedroom - waiting to be wrapped.

Here's my fear.

How It Was Supposed To Happen (Last Year)
Last year, on Christmas morning, we were supposed to be at someone's house at 6 am - crazy, I know - to open gifts. The car was supposed to be packed the night before - so we could drive 2 states to visit more family immediately following the sunrise present thingy.

What Really Happened.(Last Year)
Last year we were up till 3 am wrapping the last of our gifts. After catching a quick wink, when that 5:30 alarm went off I told hubby to go ahead. (It was his side of the family, and it wasn't a problem.) I stayed back, finished the gifts and packed the car. When we finally hit the road we were both exhausted.

Coffee Toffee Brownie Recipe

The Plan For This Year
I want a Girls' Night In...wrapping party.
Yep, think it's a great idea. Call the girls and book the date. Not too soon - cuz you want to give everyone time to finish shopping. And, not too late - cuz you'll want to see all the pretty packages under the tree.

What They Bring
All the gifts they want to wrap - have em toss them into their trunk. Their wrapping paper, bows - the works, if they want. And, comfy clothes - jammies - if they're game.

I'll Supply...
Extra wrapping paper, bows, TONS of tape, and lots of gift tags. (Am I the only one who ends up using scraps of wrapping paper as gift tags?)

Butter Pecan Pie Recipe

When each gal arrives.
Everyone goes out to empty their trunk. Easy-breazy. Many hands make light work. Don't forget our 2 quick tips to a more inviting home.

Be sure you have munchies on hand. And, don't forget the chocolate. Seriously, unless you are allergic, is there anyone who doesn't love chocolate?

Here's the fun part.
A couple of your friends probably love to wrap gifts. Others might hate it - but they really like choosing music or playing around in the kitchen. It's all good! The presents will get wrapped and you'll all have a blast!!

At the end of the evening, everyone helps pack the cars, you send them off with extra chocolate or goodies, and sit back and admire the lovely gifts - wrapped and under the tree. Success!

Remember to check out Duncan Hines' website www.duncanhines.com to find some great recipes for your holiday get-together! I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective.

Linking to: