The Kendal Companies Forum

Yummyday Tuesday - Homemade Pound Cake Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Sat, 29 Dec 2012 16:00:00 +0000

And here it is....my neighbor's famous Pound Cake Recipe (be sure to top it off with the Chocolate Gravy or Grand Berries recipes from last Tuesday's post!)

Renee's Famous Pound Cake
Shift Together:
Flour 3 ½ C
Salt ¼ Tsp.
Baking Powder ½ tsp.

Cream together short. & Sugar
Shortening 1 ½ C
Sugar 3 C.

Add Milk
Milk 1 ¼ C

Fold in eggs
Eggs, Beatened 5

Add Vanilla
Vanilla 2 tsp.

Mix Well
Bake in Bunt Cake Pan 325 degrees for about 40 minutes.

Serve warm with toppings!

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

Why Worry? Wednesday - Packing Up Your Holiday Decor

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Wed, 26 Dec 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Recyled post from December 2009:
AFTER Holiday but BEFORE New Years, TIPS
Now that the holidays are over, don't just stuff your trimmings in a box or take your trash to the dump - THINK about how you can re-think the way you end this holiday season and how it carries over to next year. When you only have a couple of days off - it's easy to throw it all back in the box but DON'T! Read through the following tips to tweak your routine in order to start the year off right - and get yourself better prepare for next Christmas!
Use these simple steps as a starting point to a great new way of Simpler Living...
As you starting pulling down your tree and gathering your other holiday decor, designate one area to collect and put everything there. I use the dining room table. I pull all my empty storage bins, tissue paper for wrapping delicate ornaments and my camera to the room. I go from room to room, gathering all the things to store and take them to the table. I try to separate the items into "piles" that will be stored together or stored by what room they go in. Example: All Christmas balls go in one storage bin so they are placed together. Everything that I use in the kitchen (cookie cutters, hand towels, etc) goes in one bin, so next year, when I start my holiday cooking , I can pull this one bin out to use if I haven't put up my other decor yet.
After I have been to each room and EVERYTHING is on the table (or surrounding floor!), I begin to pack. Each item is checked for damage and put in the "donate" pile if damaged or unwanted. Sometimes I go several years without using an item - when this happens I may keep it separate for a few years to see if I still want it. After a few years of not using it , I will offer it to my brother or it goes in the "donate" box. Last year my friends and I had a "Unloved Holiday Ornament Swap" where we exchanged good decorations with each other. I also make a list of what I may need for next year (lights, etc).

By carefully packing UP your items this year, it will make Unpacking them next year a breeze. I photo the inside of each bin and place the photo on the outside with a label. This helps me find items later.

TAKE STOCK NOW - not next December! Take a minute to make a mental list of what you need to restock for next year. Holiday wrapping supplies can be found at drastically reduced prices in January. Place gift wrap in tall kitchen trash cans that can be easily stored. Keep all your holiday wrapping supplies separated and stored with your holiday decorations. This keeps it from combining with your everyday wrap and handy when the holiday comes back around.

ORGANIZE your WRAP - Take loose rolls or scraps of ribbons and roll them around an empty paper towel cardboard roll. Use a paper towel stand to stack rolls of ribbons that have their own holders.
Use a clean small trash can to stack the long rolls of wrapping paper up. To keep rolls from unrolling and getting crushed, roll a rubber band around each roll, instead of taping the ends. This makes it easy to pull out what you need. Take a sturdy shoe box and fill it with everything you need to wrap - extra Scissors, multiple tape rolls, gifts tags, pens, etc. Any torn or unusable ribbon, save for kid's crafts in a clear tub. They can be used for homemade cards and crafts next year.

SORT your DECOR, as you put it away - Go through an examine each item before you store it. If it's broke, get rid of it. If it still holds sentimental value - then store it with other valuable items, NOT with your usable ornaments. Do you have tons of things you keep but don't use? Don't put it back in the closet. Collect these unwanted treasures in one box and donate them to a children's shelter for their use next year.
ORGANIZE your DECOR - Use everyday household items to retire your decor for the year. Egg crates can hold delicate ornaments. Tissue paper and gift bags from this year's gifts can be packed with holiday tins, towels, stuffed decor. Put all kitchen holiday utensils such as cookie cutters, snowman salt and pepper shakers and holiday paper plates all together and store OUT OF THE KITCHEN and with your decorations. You only use them once a year, keep them with the other holiday items. Keep all the same holiday items in clean, matching, PLASTIC tubs. Label the outside with a picture of the contents.
DONATE unwanted gifts - It's sounds terrible to "re-gift" but if you don't love it and it's only going to end up in the closet - move it out. Take it to the women's shelter. Donate to the military overseas. Give it to your mother - just move it from your house! This is YOUR year to de-clutter, don't start by keeping unwanted gifts.

Yummyday Tuesday - Lemon Scones, Chocolate Gravy and Grand Berries

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 25 Dec 2012 19:00:00 +0000

The following post is a contiuation of my Simple Party Planning Course and the menu items are from my Simple Brunch.

Final week in the Simple Brunch Menu Series. Links to the previous recipes and your printable grocery shopping list is at the end of this post!

My Secret Lemon Scones

You would not believe how many people BEG for this recipe - lucky for me, there' nothing to it!

One box of Duncan Hines Blueberry Muffin Mix
One Box of Duncan Hines Poppy Seed Muffin Mix
Bake the blueberry muffins, as directed, LEAVING OUT THE BLUEBERRIES, and use mini muffins cups
Use the Lemon Glaze out of the Poppy Muffin Box on top of the mini scones.

That's it! I came up with this recipe after I bought the Poppy Seed mix one time and forgot to put on the glaze. The next time I made scones and needed a glaze, I remembered the left-over glaze and used it. It was a hit and nothing I make compares!

Chocolate GRAVY - Serve warm on top of homemade Pound Cake (that recipe is for another day!)

1/3 Cup Cocoa

1/4 Cup Milk

1 Cup Sugar

1 tsp Vanilla

1 Stick Butter

1 box Powdered Sugar

Melt butter in milk on LOW - stirring constantly. Add sugars and cocoa - stir until melted. Add vanilla. You are now in Heaven!

Grand Berries - serve chilled on top of homemade pound cake (sorry - you still have to wait for that one!)

24oz Fresh blackberries - frozen will work if you must
1 MINI Grand Marnier
1 Tbsp Honey

Mix well and marinate overnight.

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

RECIPE LINKS:
Mimosas
Hot Russian Tea

Smoked Salmon

Served with Capers, Red Onions and Lagniappe

Maries' Cheese ball

Served with Artisan Crackers

Spicy Tomato Grits

Thick Cut Bacon and Sausage Patties

Sautéed Spinach with Onions and Garlic
Lemon Glazed Scones

Coffee Bar

PRINT OUT AND TAKE WITH YOU!
Grocery List
Fruit & Produce Section
Orange Slices – Three Oranges, sliced into circles
1 Lemon - or Lemon Juice
Grapes – Several Large bunches
Red Onion – One Medium, finely chopped
Onion – One large onion finely chopped
One large bag fresh spinach (apx. 2#)
Fresh Garlic – 6 cloves finely chopped, but not minced
Baking Goods Isle
Sugar - 4 Cups
Cinnamon Sticks – 3
Whole Cloves – 10-12 pieces
Lady & Sons Seasoning – see recipe
Accent – 3 Tbsp.
Worcestershire – 3 Tbsp.
Cheesecloth – for Tea
Grits – 1 cup QUICK-Cooking, but not instant
Blueberry muffin mix – Do not add the berries!
Poppy Seed muffin mix – Do not make the muffins, just need the glaze
Sugar Cubes
Mini Muffin Cups
Meat & Seafood
Beef Slices – See Recipe Notes
Bacon – One Package THICK CUT
Sausage – Two packages of 8 patties
Smoked Salmon – One large pre-packaged SMOKED
Dairy & Refrigerated Section
Cream Cheese – 4 oz. for the salmon plus 3 8pz. Bars for cheese ball
Eggs – 2, slightly beaten
Milk – 1 ¼ Cup
Velveeta – 6 oz.
Cheddar – 2 ½ Cup, shredded
Orange Juice – 2-64oz. Juice plus one Frozen OJ
Other Items
Capers – One small Jar
Rotel – 1 Can
Crackers – 1 large box of assorted crackers plus one box Tollhouse
Coffee & Tea Isle
Coffee – Foldgers Classic Roast or Blue Mountain
Individual Creamers
Tea – 1 Box of Regular Tea Bags
Stirrers

Champagne - 2 bottles

Okay, Okay! Here's the Oreo Ball Recipe!

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 13:45:00 +0000

Funny thing, that facebook....post how you're working on something and all the sudden you are bombarded with requests for the recipe/how to.

Luckily, I LOVE to share... I am finished with my bazillion Oreo balls for this season so have at it!

This original recipe comes from the famous http://www.bakerella.com/ so be sure to check out all her cool recipes too. There is also a slide show "how-to" on my website.

Ingredients: Makes apx. 3 dozen balls

1 Package of regular Oreos

6oz. Cream Cheese

1 bag of Chocolate Candy Melts (Hobby Lobby)

Twist the Oreos apart, leaving the cream on the cookies. Put into food processor and grind until they become fine crumbs. You do not want any large pieces. (Surprisingly, the crumbs will be dry even with the cream.)

Put the crumbs in a large bowl and add the softened cream cheese ½ at a time. Mix well WITH YOUR HANDS! Roll gumball sized balls in the palm of your hand and place on wax paper. FYI – These are really rich so if you make them any larger – it’s almost too much of a good thing.

Melt the chocolate melts according to package instructions. Put 4 or 5 balls in the chocolate at a time and roll them around to coat evenly. Using a fork and a spoon, remove the balls individually, tapping the excess chocolate off as you place them back on the wax paper. Before they harden, sprinkle with your favorite topping, if desired. No need to sprinkle them as soon as you put them on the paper.You can usually dip an entire bag before they dry out. Eat them all yourself or wrap them up and give away as gifts.

Green Tip:

For my teacher gifts, I dove into my clean recycle stash for wrapping ideas. I covered Velveeta cheese boxes with tissue paper, wrapped the Oreo balls in colored saran wrap and placed them in the box. Then I put the box in a gift bag. You can also reuse the original Oreo cookie plastic container (see photo). Just cover them with colored saran wrap and top with a bow. Easy and inexpensive!

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

Thinking Thursday - Party Countdown- Part 3 in a Series

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Thursdays are for "thinking" out of the box. Together with Yummyday Tuesdays and Why Worry? Wednesdays - Thursdays are a part of the Simple Party Planning Series I am posting this month.

Party Countdown Schedule - if you've been following the entire series - this countdown will help you prepare for your Holiday Brunch

The 10 days to 1 Week Before:
Make a guest list for 5 to 6 couples – what ever your table will comfortably accommodate. For a simple last minute brunch, no need to mail invites. Call, but do not email, your guests.

Look through your kitchen to see what items you have on hand and make a list of what you will need (use LIST below for recipe items.)

Check all dinnerware, crystal and utensils and wash everything that needs it. Use real dinnerware, not disposable for small intimate gatherings – it makes your guests feel important.

Polish any silver you plan to use

Two Days Before:

Survey your front walk and front door, use simple decorations

Iron your linen tablecloth and go ahead and place it on the table.

Set your table with correct place settings, add place cards for an added touch

Set up the food table – See HINT #2, chose what serving dishes and utensils you will need, place on table and label with a post-it note

HINT #1: When setting up the food table, go ahead and place the serving dish and serving utensil needed for each item on the table. Using a note card, label each piece so you know where everything will go. This will allow an early guest to help place food on the table while you are doing last minute things in the kitchen.

HINT #2 - Never deep clean your home before a party. The only time your guests will be alone to take note of your housekeeping is in the guest bathroom. Be sure to deep clean here, but the rest of the house should just get a light cleaning.

Go to the grocery store. (See Shopping List Below)

The Day Before:
Follow the Prep list below:
Slice the oranges into circles, cover and refrigerate
Chop Red Onion into fine pieces, place is small bowl. Cover – refrigerate

Put capers on a bowl that matches the red onion bowl, cover and refridge

Mix 4oz. Cream cheese with a dash of salt, pepper and garlic powder

Make the cheese ball - see recipe

Prep the grits, but do not bake yet

Bake the Scones - see recipe

Setup the coffee and tea station - Get the coffee pot ready, set out sugar, stirrers, and cups

Place a carafe for the tea

Chill the champagne

The Morning of:

HINT: If your brunch is set to start at 10:30, go ahead and shower first thing in the morning. Put on work clothes until 9:30, then change. If your party is a late brunch, wait until 1 ½ hour before starting time to shower – you’ll feel refreshed. You need to be dressed 1 hour before start time to ensure you have time to do all last minute details w/o worrying about finishing your makeup!

Make the Russian Tea – See Recipe – When finished, place in carafe

Bake the Grits – once done, leave in warm oven until time

Set out cheese ball so that it can come to room temp.

Place crackers on appropriate tray by the cheese ball

Set out capers, red onion and cream cheese dip

Place additional crackers near the salmon tray

Sautee the onions and garlic for the spinach – reserve for last minute

Bake the bacon IN THE OVEN – Line the pan with parchment paper, preferably on a rack. Be sure to use a pan that has sides to catch the grease.

Cook the Sausage – keep in warm oven until time

Last minute:

Start the coffee

Place Salmon on appropriate tray. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary
Take grits, sausage and bacon out of the oven and place on table

Pour the lemon glaze on cold scones, and then warm the scones in the microwave

Put the grapes around the cheese ball and salmon for garnishes

Sautee the spinach with the pre-cooked onions and garlic, drain on a paper-towel and add to table.
Double check that everything is out on the table

Open the front door if you have a storm/screen door

Last check to make sure the bathroom is freshened

Take a last minute look around, put on some lipstick, make yourself a mimosa and enjoy!

Next Thursday.....Final Notes..... For more party planning tips visit The Kendal Companies

Thinking Thursday - Reducing Packing Materials

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Living Green – Reduce Packing Waste

- Reuse a box instead of purchasing a new one for shipping gifts

- Use the smallest box possible to reduce packing materials

- Reuse bubble wrap and packing peanuts – NEVER throw peanuts away

- Create your own packing materials by using shredded newspaper

Why Worry Wednesday - What Food to Serve? Part 3 in the Series

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Part 3: "Why Worry? Wednesday-Holiday Party Planning Series". Please be sure to check out the Introduction and previous posts if you are new to my blog.

What to do before, during and after your event to get guests to crown you

“Hostess of the Year”

To continue with "Things Women Worry About When Planning A Party," let's discuss...

WHAT FOOD WILL I SERVE?

Food Selection

The biggest concern of all! Again, KEEP IT SIMPLE. The number one rule of thumb as a hostess – never look stressed and never stay in the kitchen. Select foods that can be prepared before your event – and I mean in the days before, not minutes before. Save one or two specialties for last minute, but the majority of our foods should be prepared early. Chose things that can stay at room temperature and that can be kept out for long periods. Also chose items that can be easily swapped out as they are depleted. As you remove an empty tray, have another tray ready to replace, or better yet, just fill in the empty space by moving around trays already on the table. People expect the food table to deplete as the night goes on. You don’t always have to have a full food table. Just keep it clean throughout the night.

- Beverage Options – Alcohol or not? This is also a personal preference and a large budget expense. My recommendation is to provide minimal selections and ask guests to bring their own beverage of choice

Be sure to check out Full Menus and Recipes that are posted on Yummyday Tuesdays or on my website!

Next Wednesday......What Will I wear?!

For more great recipes, visit The Kendal Catering Company

Yummyday Tuesdays - Spicy Tomato Grits Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 19:00:00 +0000

The following post is a contiuation of my Simple Party Planning Course and these menu tiems are from my Simple Brunch.

It's Yummyday Tuesday! If you've read our Intro to Party Planning, then you know how this works. If not, click over and start this party planning course from the beginning. Be sure to also read the Pre-Planning post as well. Now - on to the recipes!

My family LOVES this recipe - especially during the holidays.

Spicy Tomato Grits

Ingredients
2 cups water
1 1/4 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup quick cooking grits
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon butter
1/3 cup diced green onions
4 ounces processed cheddar cheese, cubed (suggested: Velveeta)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (suggested: Ro-Tel)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a saucepan, bring the water and milk to a boil. Add the salt and slowly add the grits and return to a boil, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Reduce the heat, cover, and cook for 3 minutes. While stirring the grits add the 1/2 cup of butter and stir until butter is melted. Cover and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the grits are thick and creamy. Remove from heat and set aside. Using a skillet, saute the onions in the remaining tablespoon of butter for 1 minute. Add the processed cheese, garlic powder, 1 1/2 cups cheddar, and onions to grits, and stir until the cheese is melted. Add the tomatoes and mix well. Pour the grits into a greased 8 by 11 by 2-inch casserole and bake for 40 minutes. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheese over the casserole for the last 5 minutes of cooking time.

TIPS:
The tips to creamy grits in the initial stirring of the pot. It may be tedious, but it is worth it. I use the Extra Hot Ro-Tel tomatoes. I sometimes place sliced tomatoes on the top before I cook it in the oven for added garnishment.

Garlic Sauteed Spinach

1 1/2 pounds baby spinach leaves

2 tablespoons good olive oil

2 tablespoons chopped garlic (6 cloves)

2 teaspoons kosher salt

3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Lemon

Sea or kosher salt, optional Rinse the spinach well in cold water to make sure it's very clean. Spin it dry in a salad spinner, leaving just a little water clinging to the leaves. In a very large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and saute the garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute, but not until it's browned. Add all the spinach, the salt, and pepper to the pot, toss it with the garlic and oil, cover the pot, and cook it for 2 minutes. Uncover the pot, turn the heat on high, and cook the spinach for another minute, stirring with a wooden spoon, until all the spinach is wilted. Using a slotted spoon, lift the spinach to a serving bowl and top with the butter, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkling of sea or kosher salt. Serve hot.

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

Thinking Thursday - Simple Party Decor - Part 2 in a Series

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Thursdays are for "thinking" out of the box. Together with Yummyday Tuesdays and Why Worry? Wednesdays - Thursdays are a part of the Simple Party Planning Series I am posting this month.

Simple Party Decor - Making Your Party Special For Everyone

- Use place cards to label the food for your guests. For cheeses, tape the place cards to toothpicks and stick directly into the cheese wedge. Nice touches make all the difference

•Set up your food table the day before. Decide where each serving dish will be placed, add corresponding serving utensils, and place a post-it note on each one to remind you what goes where. This is a great time saver!

•Use real dinnerware, crystal and utensils when possible. It makes the statement that your guests are important. It doesn’t take that much time to load the dishwasher and it reduces the amount of trash your party collects.

•If you don’t have enough real dinnerware to serve everyone, start with what you have then replace with clear disposable-wear. Buy purchasing all clear plates, cups and utensils, you can use the leftovers at any event. Instead of 10 plates in 10 different colors stacked in your cabinet, you will have something that matches it all.

•Use real linen, all-white tablecloths. Again, it makes a statement, can be used at all your events and is easily cleaned. Add layers of colored linens for dramatic (or subtle) décor. Make sure they are straight!

•Use clippings from your yard as décor in all areas. Magnolia, nandina with berries and pine are wonderful choices. Use fresh herbs such as rosemary to accent food such as creamy dips and cheese assortments. Store bought flower bouquets come across as cheesy – but taken apart, the single flowers of sunflowers, peonies and other large blooms are magnificent alone. Try placing one bloom in the bathroom on a plate for easy, classy décor. Using real décor also cuts down in the amount of decorations you need to store every year.

•If children are to be involved, have a special area just for them. They should have their own food table with special treats and an area full of activities to keep them busy. Try setting up a table where they can create their own gum-drop trees from Styrofoam cones.

•At the coffee station, use sugar cubes instead of regular sugar. You’ll be amazed how many people notice! Also offer Splenda, Sweet & Low and individual creamers as an added touch. All the leftovers can be saved for another party.

•Expand beyond the usual holiday balls in a bowl - Simple things like cranberries add color and create wonderful, simple displays.

•Take store bought foods and dips out of the container and put into nicer bowls and trays. It’s all about the PRESENTATION. Use grandma’s china – she did!

•Designate a “dirty dish” area. If guests can see where to place their dishes they are more likely to put them there than leave them laying around your home. Set up a bowl with warm soapy water for utensils and a trash can designated for trash/food. While working the room, casually pick up dishes and cups left laying around. This will cut down the time spent cleaning up later. NEVER load the dishwasher while you still have guests.

•Designate an area for coats and handbags.

•Simmer cinnamon sticks and whole cloves on the stove at the beginning – it will create a warm atmosphere.

Next Thursday....Party STARTER ideas. For more great ideas, please visit The Kendal Companies

Thinking Thursday - Reduce your gift shipping costs

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 14:00:00 +0000

From the Dec. 2009 issue of Better Homes and Gardens:

Give gifts you don't have to wrap or ship to save money, wrapping paper, postage and transport fuel such as:

Music and Movies from iTunes
Club Memberships
Charitable Contributions
Concert or Theatre Tickets purchased online
Virtual Gift Cards
Kindle Novels

Why Worry? Wednesday - Is My House Clean? Part 2 in the Series

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Part 2: "Why Worry? Wednesday-Holiday Party Planning Series". Please be sure to check out the Introduction and previous posts if you are new to my blog.

What to do before, during and after your event to get guests to crown you

“Hostess of the Year”

To continue with "Things Women Worry About When Planning A Party," let's discuss...

How clean is my house?

Quick tips for getting your house ready

The LEAST of your worries.

To simplify cleaning follow these basic steps:
Front Door and Entry

-Front walk, porch and door should be swept clear, brightly lit and simply decorated

-Make it warm and welcoming. Turn on all the outside lights or use luminaries.

-Use a simple wreath on the door.

-Make sure your entryway is clear of clutter. Remove everything possible and replace with
simple décor such as a bowl of unshelled nuts, a fresh poinsettia or a guest sign in book.

Guest Bathroom

This is the only time your guest will be alone and have time to look around. Be sure the guest bath is extra clean, fully stocked with paper (you don’t want guests looking through your cabinet while searching for more paper), simply decorated (use a scented candle) and has hand soap and a guest towel out. Yes, people WILL look behind the shower curtain and inside the closet – remove bath toys and straighten the linen closet.

The Entertaining area

No need to deep clean your party area. The room will be filled with guests. They will concentrate on the food table and talk with other guests instead of studying the dusty baseboards. Lightly dust and sweep or vacuum. The deep cleaning will be needed AFTER your guests leave!

The rest of the house:

There WILL be guests that have never been to your home and they will want to look around. Don’t panic – lightly clean the other rooms in your home and keep lights turned down (or use lamps and candles). This will hide any imperfections enough for a quick tour .

And a quick note on decorating....

Make it simple.
Use what you have. Wait to put out all your extravagant decorations until AFTER the party. What your family enjoys is not always what you what to accomplish when decorating for a party. A simple wreath on the door, a few pinecones and limbs on the table and a nicely scented candle in the guest bathroom goes much farther than 50 strand of lights and Christmas balls everywhere.

Next Wednesday......Simple Food to Serve.....

For more house keeping tips, visit The Kendal Companies

Yummyday Tuesdays - Beverages for your holiday party

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 19:00:00 +0000

The following post is a contiuation of my Simple Party Planning Course....

Welcome to the first Yummyday Tuesday. If you've read our Intro to Party Planning, then you know how this will work. If not, click over and start this party planning course from the beginning. Be sure to also read the Pre-Planning post as well. Now - on to the first set of recipes!

The holidays are a wonderful time to share with your friends.
Instead of a heavy meal, invite friends over for a mid-morning brunch. The following menu is simple but can be elegant with a few added touches. With a brunch your guests can relax and socialize and still have a full day to run those last minute Holiday errands. December's Yummyday Tuesdays will breakdown my Simple (but elegant) brunch menu, starting with.....

Beverages:

Mimosas
1 bottle Brut Champagne or sparkling white wine
1/2 gallon fresh squeezed orange juice, strained
In a large pitcher, mix the Champagne with the orange juice. Stir thoroughly. Garnish with fruit slices or sweet cherries.

Russian Tea
1 1/2 Gallon orange-flavored drink mix (e.g. Tang)
I Use Frozen OJ concentrate when I can't find the Tang
2 cups white sugar
12 COLD BREW Tea Bags
3 sticks Cinnamon
10-12 Whole Cloves
Orange Slices
Cheesecloth and String
In a pitcher, mix the Tang, or OJ, with water per container directions. Pour into a large pot. In the same pitcher, put tea bags in to seep with 1 quart water, then add to pot. In the large pot, heat the OJ (or Tang) and tea - add sugar and stir until dissolved. Wrap the cinnamon sticks and cloves in the cheesecloth, tie with the string and place in the pot. The longer the spices stay in the pot, the stronger the flavor. After apx. 30 minutes on LOW heat, taste test the tea. Add sugar or more tea/OJ as needed. Serve hot.

Coffee Bar
Brew your favorite coffee and serve with lots of condiments.
Try:
Flavored Creamers and Syrups
Marshmallows
Caramel

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

Thinking Thursday - Party Theme Ideas - Part 1 in a Series

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Thursdays are for "thinking" out of the box. Together with Yummyday Tuesdays and Why Worry? Wednesdays - Thursdays will be a part of the Simple Party Planning Series this month.

For our first Thinking Thursday, let's go over some great party themes and ideas.

•Create a poster or cork board with pictures of your guests from throughout the years. Ask guests to bring their own pictures to add and swap out. Your guests will love (and laugh) at pictures of themselves and others. To expand on this idea – try it with your neighbors. Many times neighbors do not exchange the many pictures they take throughout the year of each other’s children. It’s a great way to collect and exchange these photos.

•Have Santa make a surprise visit at your adult parties too. Guests can give Santa a wish list and have their photos taken. Great way to start the laughs – and maybe get what you really want this year!

•Arrange for the neighborhood kids or another group to stop by and Christmas carol for your guests. OR, have a Christmas Caroling party. When I was a child, we would meet at someone’s home and take a hayride to people’s homes to carol. Every third or fourth house we would go in for hot chocolate and treats before going on to the next house. After the last house, we would go back and the adults would socialize with Hot Rum while we decorated the tree. How I loved it!

•Have a Christmas Card Making or Baked-Good Baking Party – Gather your friends for pot-luck dinner while you all sign and address your Holiday cards or bake and package your baked gifts.

•For “Christmas in July” try the following: Place the lid of a large Rubbermaid tote on the center of your food table. Cover it with a tablecloth. Fill the lid with play sand. Add Barbies in swim suits, shells, and other summer items for décor. Suggest Hawaiian shirts, serve margaritas, mini BBQ sandwiches and homemade ice cream. Play Jimmy Buffet music and have everyone do the “limbo!”

•Create “stations” instead of a food table. Banana split bars, soup stations and taco bars are great easy to fix tables.

Next Thursday..... Holiday Party Decor. For more great party planning ideas, decor photos and recipes, visit The Kendal Companies

Why Worry? Wednesday - Who To Invite and Will Anyone Come?

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the first "Why Worry? Wednesday." This is a part of my Holiday Party Planning Series. Please be sure to check out the Introduction and previous posts if you are new to my blog.

The series begins this week with "Things Women Worry About When Planning A Party." Included in this series will be:

Who to Invite & WILL ANYONE SHOW UP?

What to do before, during and after your event to get guests to crown you “Hostess of the Year”

We begin with:

Who to Invite & WILL ANYONE SHOW UP?

There are many things you can do before, during and after your event to ensure your guests will attend, and will want to attend, your events.

GETTING THE GUEST TO ATTEND

Date Selection -Getting your guests to attend takes more than just an alluring invitation. Think about your own obligations and apply it to your guest list. Consider more than just choosing whether a Friday or Saturday will work. Scan the local newspaper or school websites to find out what is going on in the community that might be a conflict for your guests. Sports schedules, school concerts and local community events such as holiday parades and tree lightings should be taken into consideration.

Send an enticing invitation - Be creative! This is an example of how I used humor to get party guests from the Georgia Coast to come to a party in Northern Georgia:

Intrigue them with a creative theme -When choosing a theme, think outside of the box. Just because it’s the holidays doesn’t mean you have to have traditional themes. Try “July in Christmas” for a fun theme . With traditional parties, add another dimension by having a centralized event such as having Santa stop by or have Christmas carolers stop by. Focus more on what you can offer your guests that is different than just the theme’s décor.

GETTING THE GUEST TO PUT YOU ON THE TOP OF THEIR RSVP LIST

Simple Elegance during your event - Down play the decor. SIMPLE decorations make a stronger statement than lavish tinsel and bows.

Food that is different but wonderful - Add a few unusual items to your regular party table. Pickled watermelon Rinds or Okra Tea sandwiches are great conversation starters!

Make each guest feel they are the most important guest - take the time to sincerely thank each guest for attending. Everyone is busy during the holidays and they didn't have to take the time to stop by YOUR party. Be grateful!

Never let them see you sweat - Have everything ready so that you are out of the kitchen by the first ring of the doorbell.

Consistency is the KEY - Guest will remember and RETURN to your home for wonderful parties. Keep up the level of elegance at each function you host- whether it's the holidays or just afternoon tea.

AFTER THE PARTY

- Send a card, or email, with pictures of you guests from the party, thanking them for attending.

Next Wednesday.... Is My House Clean? For more great tips, visit The Kendal Companies.

For more great party planning tips, visit The Kendal Companies

Yummyday Tuesdays - Smoked Salmon Spread & Secret Cheese Ball Recipes

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 01:18:00 +0000

The following post is a contiuation of my Simple Party Planning Course and these menu items are from my Simple Brunch Selections.

It's Yummyday Tuesday! If you've read our Intro to Party Planning, then you know how this works. If not, click over and start this party planning course from the beginning. Be sure to also read the Pre-Planning post as well. Now - on to the recipes!

Smoked Salmon is a staple on my appetizer table. To add a "little something extra" I serve it with chopped red onion, capers and lagniappe (which means, a little something extra!)

Lagniappe (for Smoked Salmon)
4 oz. cream cheese
Lady & Sons Seasoning - add to taste (see Recipe below)

Lady & Sons Seasoning
1 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup fresh ground black pepper
1/4 cup garlic powder

Mix ingredients together and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Our Family Secret Cheese Ball
Cream Cheese 3 – 8oz. pkg. (room temp.)
Onion, Chopped 2 C. (1 Lg)
Worcestershire 3 Tbsp.
Accent 3 Tbsp.
Sandwich Beef, Chopped 4 Pkg. (Best if chopped in food processor)

Mix all ingredients together, using only 3 of the 4 packages of meat. Shape into ball and use the reserved meat to cover the outside. Served best with Tollhouse or Ritz Crackers

Coming up next Tuesday....Spicy Tomato Grits and Sauteed Spinach! For more great recipes, visit The Kendal Companies.

Thinking Thursday - RSVPs - What is that?!

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 22:08:00 +0000

We all are guilty of it. Not RSVPing, or waiting until the last minute to call, or worse - showing up after not RSVPing. Why do we do this and why is such a crime?

In my business, everything depends on the guest count. From how many tables and chairs to how many individual hand-made appetizers I have to roll - believe me, it matters.

Let's talk about why most of us have such a hard time picking up the phone, or emailing, or sending in the pre-stamped RSVP, or any other forms of letting the hostess know you will or won't be there:

Commitment phobia. What if something better comes along? What if I can't get a sitter? What if Brad Pitt shows up at my door and sweeps me away? What if? You can always call and let the hostess know (I promise she'll understand if you're on your way to France with Mr. Pitt.) The whole reason for RSVPS is so that the hostess can plan on how much food, beverages, chairs and space she will need AND how much money she needs to budget for all of it. If she knows she is having 100 guest instead of the 250 she invited, she may serve lobster instead of chicken. Likewise, if she does have all 250 RSVP, she knows she can never afford lobster for everyone and will have to go with the chicken.

You want to help the hostess with her budget. Don't try to save the hostess that per-person catering fee by saying "I won't eat" or "my child can share off my plate" because the truth is, you WILL pick up a couple of pieces of cheese and your five-year-old will visit the dessert table at least twice. If you show up unannounced and do eat, there may not be enough food. It's better to have too much food than to not have enough so go ahead and say "yes" even if it's a "maybe." If you wait or don't RSVP you could be left empty-handed. You CAN change your mind but at least you will be covered

You simply forgot. Solve this problem by immediately responding the minute you get the invite. Don't put it in the pile on your desk or leave it in the car. Go ahead and pick up the phone or mail in the card. If it's an Evite, immediately respond online. If your hostess was gracious enough to put a pre-stamped RSVP card in the invite, at least mail it back to her. That's alot of postage down the drain if you don't!

You're afraid you will hurt her feelings by responding "no." Yes, this is a possibility but hostess know that not everyone can attend her event. She does expect some "No's" but I also know that she would rather hear something from you than feel like you are avoiding her by not responding. For big events such as weddings, the hostess is going to make around of phone calls to those she has not heard from. Don't ingore her to save her feelings, save yourself (and her) the grief by simply being honest and RSVPing your regrets. You don't have to say "I'm going to Jenny's wedding instead." or "I'm allergic to your cat and can't come to you home Christmas party." Just a simple, NO on the RSVP will suffice.

Holiday Party Planning Course - PRE-PLANNING

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Wed, 21 Nov 2012 19:00:00 +0000

The following post is a contiuation of my Simple Party Planning Course....

So you’ve decided to have a party. Now What?

PRE-PLANNING

Don’t be overwhelmed by planning your event. Sit down and put the following down ON PAPER:

-DATE: Getting your guests to attend takes more than just an alluring invitation. Think about your own obligations and apply it to your guest list. Consider more than just choosing whether a Friday or Saturday will work. Scan the local newspaper or school websites to find out what is going on in the community that might be a conflict for your guests. Sports schedules, school concerts and local community events such as holiday parades and tree lightings should be taken into consideration.

-TIME & DURATION: For evening events your starting time should be late enough to give yourself time to prepare and give your working guests time to get home and change but should also be early enough that your party doesn’t run late into the night. 7 or 7:30 is usually standard for evening affairs. For afternoon events, be considerate and don’t choose time frames that take up your guest’s entire day. Plan for brunch time 10:30 – 1:30 or late afternoon 5 -7pm.. You will have more people attend if they see that they still have time to accomplish their own agendas.

LOCATION – It is most cost effective to host your party at your own home. Think about how many guests your home will accommodate. Consider removing furniture out of the entertaining rooms and place folding chairs around the areas. Everyone likes to show off their home décor, but scale back your cherished items for a crisper, cleaner look for entertaining. You will benefit more by saving your favorite collectible from being broken than from displaying it for your guests. If you are planning an outdoor party, be sure to think about the weather. On porches and in garages, bring in extra fans to circulate the air and keep bugs away. Outdoor tents are very elegant for winter outdoor parties and save your home from the mess, but can be expensive to rent.

THEME- When choosing a theme, think outside of the box. Just because it’s the holidays doesn’t mean you have to have traditional themes. Try “July in Christmas” for a fun theme (see Party Starter page for details.) With traditional parties, add another dimension by having a centralized event such as having Santa stop by or have Christmas carolers stop by. Focus more on what you can offer your guests that is different than just the theme’s décor.

ATTIRE (cocktail, casual, dinner) – This one is your personal preference. Most people like to have a reason to dress up a little bit, but sometimes you just want to be comfortable.

GUEST COUNT/LIST –Is this just neighbors? Your company holiday party? Don’t mix guest list. Business parties should not be combined with less formal occasions. No one wants to see their slightly obnoxious neighbor chatting with your biggest client. It is also too stressful to try to be professional and hang out with the girl next door at the same time. Again, consider how many your home will comfortable hold.

Coming Next..... the "Menu".......

Yummyday Tuesday - Sweet Potato Balls

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Sweet Potato Balls

Bake, Peel and Mash 4 large Sweet Potatoes

Mix together:
2/3 C. Brown Sugar
2 Tbsp. Orange Juice
1 tsp. Orange Zest
1/2 tsp. Nutmeg

Add to potatoes.

In a seperate bowl toss together:
2 C. Coconut
1/2 C. Sugar
1 tsp. Cinnamon

Press the mixture around a large marshmellow. Roll ball around in the coconut mixture. Place in a large paper cupcake wrapper and bake in muffin tin for 20 mins. at 350 degrees.

Be careful not to overcook or the marshmellows will pop.

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

YOU ASKED - YOU GOT IT - Holiday Party Planning Course

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 02:00:00 +0000

Last holiday season I did a series of seminars for local businesses and civic groups on simple holiday party planning. It was a great success and I have had emails from several attendees requesting a "reminder" course. I added a slideshow to my website and thought it would be a great idea to add it to my blog during the month of December.

Starting this week, I will be breaking down my series into three posts per week. On Tuesdays I will post "Yummyday Tuesdays" which will consist of recipes from my family, friends and personal catering company. I will start with the brunch menu I used as a guide in my seminars.

This will be complimented by "Why Worry? Wednesdays." These posts will cover the "Things women worry about the most when planning a party."

Finally, "Thinking Thursdays" will highlight party planning shortcuts and tips. Sort of my own "thinking out of the box" series.

By the end of the month you should be able to hold a simple, but elegant, brunch for the holidays or for a festive NewYears Eve Gala. If you are short on time and need to fast-forward, visit my website for the complete course via slideshow. To look ahead, in January, the topic will change from Simple Party Planning to Simplifying YOU and Your Clutter.

Simple (but Elegant!) Brunch INTRODUCTION/SCHEDULE

Yummyday Tuesdays:

MENU:

Beverages - Posting on Tuesday December 1st

Mimosas

Hot Russian Tea

Coffee Bar

Starters - Posting Tuesday December 8th

Smoked Salmon

Served with Capers, Red Onions and Lagniappe

Maries' Cheese ball

Served with Artisan Crackers

Main Course - Posting Tuesday December 15th

Spicy Tomato Grits

Thick Cut Bacon and Sausage Patties

Sautéed Spinach with Onions and Garlic

Sweets -Posting Tuesday December 22nd

Lemon Glazed Scones

Homemade Pound Cake Served with Chocolate Gravy and Grand Berries

Why Worry? Wednesdays4 Things Women Worry about When Planning a Party

Schedule:

Who to Invite and Will Anyone Show Up? - Wednesday December 2nd

How Clean Is My House? - Wednesday December 9th

What Food will I Serve? -Includes Printable Shopping List Wednesday December 16th

What Will I Wear? - Wednesday December 23rd

Thinking Thursdays

PARTY PLANNING TIPS AND SHORT CUTS

Schedule:

Party Themes - Thursday December 3rd

Decor Ideas - Thursday December 10th

Party Starter Ideas - December 17th

Final Notes - December 24th

I am very excited about this series and hope you will leave lots of comments for me! You can always visit The Kendal Companies for more great recipes, tips, crafts and more!

Stay tuned for the first post: Party Pre-Planning....

Yummyday Tuesday - Chilled Pumpkin Dip

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Chilled Pumpkin Dip
A wonderful lady from my Recipe Club brought this dip to last year's appetizer night. Thanks Heidi!

8 oz. Cream Cheese, softened
2 C. Powdered Sugar
1 Tbsp. OJ Concentrate
1/2 C. Sour Cream
15oz. Can of Pumpkin
1 Tbsp. Ground Cinnamon

Combine cream cheese, sour cream and sugar in a large bowl. Beat at medium speed until creamy. Reduce speed to low; add pumpkin and beat until combined. Stir in cinnamon and OJ. Refrigerate one hour before serving. Serve with gingersnaps, graham crackers or apple slices.

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

RECIPE Wrapped Pickled Watermelon Rind

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 16:58:00 +0000

If you are looking for a conversation starter - I have TWO great recipes that are attention getters. Mention "pickled watermelon rind" or "pickled okra sandwiches" and I promise you will get a sneer or at least a raised eyebrow - but I guarantee your guests will be pleasantly surprised how great these apps really are! Try them out this holiday season. Be sure to check out more great recipes and party planning tips at my website.

Watermelon Pops
1 Jar Pickled Watermelon Rind
6 Slice Bacon, cut in 1/2
Parchment Paper

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Use a baking sheet that has a lip on it (watermelon rind is a little juicy and will drip if you don't) and line it with parchment paper for easy clean up. Drain the rind WELL. Roll each piece in the 1/2 slice of bacon and place on cookie pan with the seam UP.

Bake until golden brown. DO NOT OVERCOOK. Transfer the pops on a tray and watch your guests try them out!

Note: I have found that each jar of rind is different. Some will only have 8-10 large pieces of rind while others can hold 20 pieces or more. If you are planning a party using the "bites per person" method, you may have trouble figuring how many jars to buy. I suggest planning on each jar holding 12 pieces so it will average out. many stores won't carry but a handful of jars at a time so I buy these throughout the year and keep them on hand for when I have a large party and need them.

PICKLED OKRA TEA SANDWICHES

These little tea sandwiches may get a sneer at their name and green toppings, but one bite and everyone will be hooked. I serve these at all my functions as an extra treat and they are gone in a flash! I do have to credit Paula Dean for the original recipe, but I am sure she would be glad to share it with you herself if you asked her!

24 oz. Loaf of Sliced White Bread
8 oz. Softened Cream Cheese
16 oz. Jar of Pickled Okra, drained
1 Cup Finely chopped Fresh Parsley

Remove crusts from bread. With a rolling pin or smooth glass, roll each slice very thin. Coat each slice with cream cheese and place an okra spear in the center; roll up. Spread a light coat of cream cheese on the outside of each rolled up sandwich. Roll sandwich with sparsely. Cut into thirds , if desired.

Quick Hints:
It easiest to use your fingers to spread the cream cheese on the outside of each roll. My little girl loves to help with this part!
Always use the best brands of cream cheese and the cheapest brands of bread.
I use HOT okra and everyone loves it!
Don't prepare these too early or the bread will dry out. They can be kept in the refrigerator for a short time if necessary. My niece uses flour tortillas and says they are just as good and can keep longer.

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

A FAST FUN Halloween Treat!

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 16:34:00 +0000

Make your own Halloween Chocolate Suckers!
Please visit my website for an AWESOME "How-to" slide show to see how fun and easy it is to upgrade your Trick-or-Treat Goodies! Here's the direct link to the slide show: For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

Witches Fingers and Toes! YUMMY!

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 16:55:00 +0000

Halloween is creeping in on us....are you ready? I have tons of great ideas for Halloween fun including recipes, craft ideas and last minute decorating on my website but here is a little taste:
Witches Fingers and Toes1 Can Pillsbury Bread Sticks
Whole Almonds
Red Food Coloring
Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
Little Sausages
Melted Butter

FINGERS:
Paint the end of each almond piece with a little water and red food coloring, lay to dry. Separate each bread stick and lay flat on a cookie sheet. Push together to create "knuckles" in three places on each "finger." Put the almond on the end of each piece to create the fingernails. Brush each piece with melted butter and bake as directed.
TOES:
Unroll the crescent rolls. Cut each section into 2 pieces. Starting at the corner of each piece, put a sausage on the dough and roll up, leaving a little piece sticking out for the toes. Bake as directed. Serve with a basic marinara sauce and label it "Blood Clot sauce!"

WITCH WINDOW SILHOUETTE

I used two black foam boards (from Hobby Lobby) tapes together and a stencil I printed off the Internet (try ww.marthastewart.com). I simply enlarged the stencil and marked off where to cut with a piece of chalk. I then used fishing line and thumb tacks to hang it in the front window.

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

On my website I even have a great slide show of how to make your own chocolate Halloween suckers and oreo balls. I got the oreo balls idea from http://www.bakerella.com/ so be sure to click over and check out her GREAT blog too!

Click over to http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/ before it's too late!

FYI - This week almost all of the candy coupons out there will expire on Saturday. CVS, Rtie Aid, even Ingles and Publix have great deals for Halloween candy. Check out http://www.southernsavers.com/ for the best deals. Use up your coupons this week for your child's school party, your trick-or-treater's candy, or donate the candy to your church fall festival or even just drop it off at the local children's or women's shelter for an added treat!

NOTE ON DONATING TO SHELTERS: For obvious safety reasons, I cannot post the addresses for these shelters. Please call the shelter for directions on dropping off the candies. Thanks!

Bartow County Children's Shelter - Call Patty @ ph 770-382-6180 (Advocates for Children)
Bartow Women's Shelter - Call 770-386-8093 (Tranquillity House)

Halloween Treats!

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 13:32:00 +0000

I LOVE Halloween. That's no secret - what is a secret is another one of my new obsessions: http://www.bakerella.com/ I've been making her Oreo Balls for awhile but she just keeps getting more and more great ideas. Check out what she does with her cake balls for Halloween: http://www.bakerella.com/trick-or-treats/

On my own website, I've added the recipe I use and a few photos of my own oreo balls and chocolate molds for Halloween.

You can buy the supplies and molds at Hobby Lobby and Michael's. Ebay has a HUGE selection of molds for about the same price (that's where I get most of mine). Don't forget to get the bags and twist ties too! Great for school Fall festivals and to give your Trick-or-Treater's! Make them ahead of time - they keep for months! Sometimes I even add a little tag to them (found in the card making section at Hobby Lobby) to personalize them. They are EASY AS PIE! Check out the "How-to" slide show on my website:

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html

Yummyday Tuesday - Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles

noreply@blogger.com (gapeach) — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Bundles and Chili Lime Sauce

Serves 10
2 lbs. Asparagus (Apx. 40 stalks)
40 Slices Prime Cut Bacon
1/4 Olive Oil

Sauce:
1/2 C. Mayo
2 tsp. Asian Chili Sauce (Sriracha)
3 Tbsp. Lime Juice
2 Tbsp. Fresh Cilantro

Wrap 3 stalks with one slice of uncooked bacon and secure with a toothpick. Lay on parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 450 degrees for 20 minutes, flipping 1/2 way through.

Wisk sauce ingredients together, adding salt and pepper to taste.

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html