The Shady Porch

Rock 'N Share #19

2012-03-07T00:31:00.000-05:00

WELCOME!

In case you missed a recent post...Click on the photo to view! (opens in a new window)

Cornbread Salad...a meal or a side dish.

Porch Parade: Features, Menu, Tips & Pins.

Orange Julius Smoothie

The Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery inductees were announced on my new Sunday post. You can check them out here at the Porch Parade: Favs, Pins, Menus' & Tips #4! Congrats to the new inductees and don't forget your R 'N S Gallery button on my new button page!

Let's Rock & Share!

Here are the rules for the party:

The only requirement is a link back! (No link back = No features)--- a text link at the bottom of your post, a Rock 'N Share button (see new button page) or you may Copy & Paste the text link below onto your blog post.
The Shady Porch

Follow The Shady Porch! - I would love to have you follow The Shady Porch adventures! I have Facebook, Linky Followers, Google+ and Twitter too! I always FOLLOW BACK; just leave me a note so I'll know!

I also ask ...

*Everything be family friendly!

*Link up your own projects...something that you've created.
Please only post projects new to the Rock 'N Share...please, no repeats from
previous parties!

* Link to a specific post - NOT your Home page! No Etsy shops or other businesses, please.

* Mingle! Introduce yourself (comment) on other party projects! Be kind! Make new friends!

I reserve the right to remove links that are in violation of these requests!

***PARTY BENEFITS***

I will be sharing my favorite posts on my Facebook page throughout the week!
The party posts with the most views will be added to the Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery!
Be sure to check the Porch Parade: Favs, Pins, Menus' & Tips #4 each Sunday to see if you've been featured!

Cornbread Salad...a meal or side dish

2012-03-06T20:39:00.000-05:00

Cornbread Salad

Years ago, while cooking with a friend for our church Homecoming celebration, I learned that Cornbread Salad was an expected standard at church social events in our region.

I was both amazed and amused that the components basically added up to a typical country pinto bean dinner except it all got mixed up in one bowl together...with a dressing, of course (it is a salad, after all)!

Obviously, this salad is hearty and can serve as a meal by itself or as a refreshing side dish with the pop of delicious Ranch flavor. As with any bean dinner, if there are leftovers, the flavors actually get better on day 2.


Cornbread Salad ingredients (partial) - corn, cheese, pinto beans, diced onions, tomatoes, peppers and Ranch dressing mix

Cornbread Salad

2 -16 oz. cans of pinto beans, drained

1 round of cornbread

1 lb bacon, fried and crumbled

1 bag frozen whole kernel corn, thawed (or 1 can, drained)

1 pkg. Ranch Dressing mix
1 cup of mayonnaise
1 cup of sour cream
4-5 green onions, cleaned & chopped
1-2 tomatoes, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 - 16oz bag of shredded cheddar cheese or a blend

Directions - This is a layered salad...up until it's time to serve, so it's very pretty if you assemble it in a clear serving bowl so the layers are visible. Just before serving, stir the salad.

In a medium bowl combine Ranch dressing mix, sour cream and mayonnaise. Set aside.

In another bowl, mix corn, onions, tomatoes, and bell pepper. Set aside.

Mixed and ready to serve

Crumble 1/2 of the cornbread into bottom of serving dish.
Add one can of pinto beans, spread evenly over cornbread layer.
Add layer of mixed vegetables using 1/2 of mixture - corn, tomatoes, etc.
Sprinkle 1/2 of the crumbled bacon and 1/2 of the cheese to form the next layer.
Add 1/2 of the dressing.
Repeat layers as above, then cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

Serves 10-12

[Variations - since the first time I made this, I've had several variations. For instance, if you prefer, red kidney beans can be swapped for the pinto beans. Also, red onion is a good substitute for the green onions. The bacon can be omitted all together, if desired. Finally, about 2 cups of bottle Ranch Dressing can be used instead of the Ranch mix used above.]

I'm sharing this recipe at these great parties -

Mommy By Day, Crafter By Night, The DIY Dreamer, Frugally Sustainable, Savvy Southern Style,
Uncommon Design, Permanent Posies, Adventures of a DIY Mom, Lines Across My Face,
Measured By The Heart, I Gotta Create, 36th Avenue, Get Outta My Head,

Porch Parade: Faves, Pins, Menus & Tips #4

2012-03-04T22:08:00.000-05:00

What a great party we had this week! It was the biggest Rock 'N Share party we've had so far and the diversity of projects was impressive. No matter your interests, there was something for everyone. As always, thank you for making the Rock 'N Share such a fun party! You are all amazingly talented and I enjoy reading your posts. Thank you!

Rock 'N Share Gallery

The Rock 'N Share party projects that had the most page views this week, and are now entered into the Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery are....

[A Word About Pinterest - If you would like to Pin any of the Rock 'N Share Featured projects below, please go directly to their link (given in the photo captions ) & post from their site, this insures the Pin will have the proper source!]

Vintage Transformation:Baby or Beach Cottage by
You Are Talking Too Much

Size Matters...with Fabric Rosettes by Miss Kopy Kat

Blinds, Drapes, Occasional Table..Oh My! by Little House in the Big D

Congratulations!

Check out all of the Rock 'N Share Gallery Inductees here!

(Don't forget your feature button! (see button page)

Dinner Menu for week of 3-05

Omelets w/Waffle Iron Hash Browns (yep...cook 'em in the waffle iron!(the shredded kind))
Flat bread Pizza & Salad
BBQ Chicken Breasts & Roasted Cauliflower, Garlic & Onion
Build your own Deli Sandwich & Macaroni Salad
Cheesy Ham Pasta
Chicken Quesadillas & Black Bean & Corn Salsa
Sloppy Joes & Slaw
Sweet & Sour Pork Chops/Garlic & Bacon Green Beans

Roasted Cauliflower, Garlic & Onion

De-Clutter & Organization Quest
This was my worst year EVER for filing and organizing our paperwork for tax season. Basically, I didn't do it at all. I usually keep everything organized in a notebook with pocket pages and when tax time rolls around I pull it out and just get to work on our taxes. I am ashamed to share the BEFORE picture of the ~~paper mess~~ fire hazard I cultivated in 2011!

BEFORE - This is the pile of receipts and other paperwork we accumulated in 2011, by neglecting to purge, sort and file regularly.
AFTER - 50 Minutes later...after purging all of the non-essential paper. This is all that's needed to do our taxes!

About the AFTER picture [above], I went through the manilla envelopes and various bags of receipts and statements, etc. purging and this is what I had left. Now I have all of the necessary receipts, invoices and other documents needed for tax preparation, I just need to sort them into categories like; medical, giving and educational, after that it's just a matter of doing the math.

This photo [left] is of my tax notebook. I dusted it off and am already using for it for 2012. It will now hold the various tax related receipts, etc. we will accumulate this year. I have it alphabetically indexed and each section has clear pocket pages to hold the documenting paperwork the IRS requires.

Favorite Pinterest Pins of the Week!


SOURCE: HOUZZ by Wendy Resin via Pinterest [if you'd like to REPIN - CLICK here]

I'm hoping this summer we can build our own fire pit in the backyard. This pinned photo is similar to what I have wishfully envisioned. I found this picture on a really cool site that has over 16,000 landscaping ideas broken down by category...such as modern, eclectic, Asian, contemporary and traditional to name a few. The photos are conveniently presented in slide show form and they even offer a 3D view. It's scary fun just how many ideas you can get from a site like this! By the way, they have interior home ideas too!


SOURCE: ETSY by LivingSewBeautiful via Pinterest [if you'd like to REPIN - CLICK here]

I saw this clever desk caddy a while back and thought it would be handy in so many places besides the office...for instance, in the kitchen to hold utensils, the bathroom for cosmetics or shaving items or even the garage for the rulers, pencils, etc. It looks rather easy to make and the decorating possibilities are endless to match any decor! Of course, if you would rather purchase it, I tracked down the original source of this creative desk caddy and finally found it on the Etsy site (kinda like Ebay but they sell handmade items).

Orange Julius Smoothie...a blast from the past!

2012-03-02T01:22:00.003-05:00

Cold, Frothy, Delicious, Orange Julius

Like ~~most~~ all girls, I loved going to the mall! One of my favorite stops at the mall was the Orange Julius store where you could get that wonderful cold, frothy, orange goodness! It was refreshing and delicious, so when I ran across the 'Perfect Orange Julius Smoothie' recipe at sweettreatsmore.com, I was hooked!

My hubby eats 2-3 oranges at a time, so I knew he would love this too! We hooked up the blender and whipped up this treat in little time. It was as good as I'd hoped and remembered, it would be! It's very reminiscent of the Orange Julius at the mall, except it's a smoothie. Whether you're familiar with Orange Julius or not, I think you'll enjoy this refreshing goodness in a glass.

Concentrate, Ice & Splenda

Orange Julius Smoothie - Serves 3-4

1 cup of milk (your preference - skim, 2%, etc. )

1 cup cold water

3-4 T. Sugar or Splenda

1 t. vanilla, if desired (I'm omitting this next time)

4-5 ice cubes (we used more)

12 oz frozen orange juice concentrate

Put it all in the blender and mix until the ice has been crushed and the mix is smooth and frothy!

ENJOY!

I shared this great drink at these parties - Stuff & Nonsense, The Shabby Creek Cottage,
Delightful Order, Hear The Bells, Whipperberry, The Shabby Nest, At the Picket Fence,
A Little Knick Knack, One Artsy Mama, Tatertots & Jello, DIY Dreamer,
Mommy By Day, Crafter By Night, Savvy Southern Style, Uncommon Design, 36th Avenue,
Permanent Posies, Adventures of a DIY Mom, Lines Across My Face, Measured By The Heart,
Get Outta My Head,

Rock 'N Share #18

2012-02-29T00:08:00.000-05:00

In case you missed a recent post...Click on the photo to view! (opens in a new window

St. Patrick’s Day Wreath.

Porch Parade: Faves, Menu, Tips & Pins.

Saltine Toffee…Best of Salty & Sweet.

WELCOME to this week's Rock 'N Share party!

Unbelievably, it's already Wednesday! I am blown away with how fast time flies by! This weekend I helped the hubby with grading and it is already middle of the 3rd term! It's that time of year when talk turns to prom, baseball, and spring break. Then, before you can blink, it's graduation and the summer is upon us! All I can say is, "hold on to your hats...March is nearly here!"
I wanted to visit everyone this week to express my gratitude for your participation in the Rock 'N Share party; if I inadvertently missed you, I'm sorry, but please know I appreciate you! I truly love reading your posts and seeing your talents displayed!

The Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery inductees were announced on my new Sunday post. You can check them out here at the Porch Parade: Favs, Pins, Menus' & Tips #3! Congrats to the new inductees and don't forget your R 'N S Gallery button on my new button page!

Now to get the Rock 'N Share Rockin' here are a few rules:

I also ask ...

*Everything be family friendly!

*Link up your own projects...something that you've created.
Please only post projects new to the Rock 'N Share...please, no repeats from
previous parties!

* Link to a specific post - NOT your Home page! No Etsy shops or other businesses, please.

* Mingle! Introduce yourself (comment) on other party projects! Be kind! Make new friends!

I reserve the right to remove links that are in violation of these requests!

***PARTY BENEFITS***

I will be sharing my favorite posts on my Facebook page throughout the week!
The party posts with the most views will be added to the Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery!
Be sure to check the Porch Parade: Favs, Pins, Menus' & Tips #3 each Sunday to see if you've been featured!

St. Patrick's Day Wreath made of Scarves!

2012-02-27T21:42:00.000-05:00

Late last year, a relative traced the Sexton name (my maternal family) all the way back to Dennis Sexton, who lived in Limerick, Ireland in 1524, so this year the St. Patrick's holiday is more meaningful to me. I love genealogy research, especially due to the tidbits of information one can gather along the way. For instance, the research stated that most of the Irish Sexton men stood well over 6-feet tall. Our earliest descendants in America were makers of coaches and wagons. Fun stuff!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Being new at being Irish, and wanting to better understand the St. Patrick's Day celebration, I did a little research and found that St. Patrick's Day originated as a celebration of Christianity coming
to Ireland. I also read that the shamrock was a tool St. Patrick used to teach about the Holy Trinity. I wonder if we have St. Patrick to thank for our family name. Sexton means 'a keeper of a church.' Anyway, after reading this, I could happily get on board with St. Patrick's Day.

So in celebration, I made a wreath for our front door. I found three at the Dollar Tree to provide the seasonal color for a pretty wreath. Two had shamrocks on them and the other was brightly striped green and white.

I already had a oval grapevine wreath to use, so I covered it in velvet green ribbon so there would be no bare spots. Then I proceeded to hot glue the scarves to the ribbon-covered wreath. I fluffed and puckered the scarves until it appeared suitably full, then I added the green beads for a little sparkle.

Finally, I cut petals out of green felt and assembled a flower by attaching the petals to a base circle of green felt, then I glued the flower to the wreath. I already had the wooden shamrock and I just stenciled the word "Welcome" on it and hung it in the middle of the wreath. I used white tulle tied in a bow to hang it on my door. I love how festive it looks, especially now that I can really celebrate St. Patrick's Day...now that I am Irish!

I shared this wreath project at these parties - Cozy Home Scenes, Coastal Charm, 2805,
Sugar Bee Crafts, Not Just A Housewife, Tip Junkie, I Gotta Create, Lil Pink Pocket,
Uncommon Designs, Adventures of a DIY Mom, Jillify It, Whipperberry, The Shabby Nest,
At the Picket Fence, A Little Knick Knack, One Artsy Mama, Tatertots & Jello, Itsy Bitsy Paper,

Porch Parade: Faves, Pins, Menus & Tips #3

2012-02-26T21:15:00.000-05:00

Welcome!

I'm excited about sharing this week's Fav's, Pins, Menu & Tips! It's been a good week ( I hope you had a good week, too!) and here are all of the highlights!

Rock 'N Share Gallery

Thank you to everyone that joined and visited the Rock 'N Share party this week. A theme that seemed to stand out on a couple of the most popular posts in this week's Rock 'N Share, were about money, specifically saving it or making $$. Most people will agree the need to save, and cutting back on spending is on every one's mind. (These were some of the first posts I read this week, too.) Of course, holidays are always popular, especially with a FREE printable for St. Patrick's Day, and, finally, the ever popular makeovers, this time using homemade chalk paint on several household items. These were this week's most viewed posts and are now in the Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery.

Re: Pinterest

If you would like to Pin any of the Rock 'N Share Featured posts, please go directly to their link
(given in captions below) & post from their site, this insures the Pin will have the proper source!

Ten ( Legal ) Ways to Make Some Extra Cash from Your Home
by More Style Than Cash

My Top Ten Budget Tips and a Fabulous Weekend

by Desire Empire

St. Patrick's Day Subway Art Printable by Maiden D'Shade

I'm In Love With Chalk Paint (Before & After Pics) by Sherry's Bees Nest

Congratulations!

Check out all of the Rock 'N Share Gallery Inductees here!

(Don't forget your feature button! (see button page)

Dinner Menu for week of 2-27

Spaghetti - new recipe for the Cooking Challenge on March 7th!
Grilled Ham & Cheese Sandwiches w/Crockpot Corn Chowder (new recipe)
Chicken Dumpling Casserole *new updates*
Stuffed Burgers w/Baked Onion Rings
Soft Taco's w/Black Bean & Corn Salsa
Breakfast or Homemade Italian Subs
Italian Pork Chop w/Steamed Veggies & Baked Potato

Chicken Dumpling Casserole

De-Clutter & Organization Quest

A big reason for my organization quest to find solutions for my clutter pockets is my belief that it will afford me more time to do other things of my choosing. If I have to muddle through clutter to find what I need to finish a project, it eats up time. So this week, I attacked one of my biggest problems...email! My personal email account has been in operation with this carrier for some years now and as a result, I was receiving mail from sources I no longer wanted. Although I had rerouted many of these items to junk mail, I always felt like I had to review them before deleting and that takes time! So I had an afternoon of "UNSUBSCRIBE-ing." I lost count, but I would say I easily did 15-20 unsubscribes and, on several more, I altered the frequency settings. Because many of the sources would send multiple messages each week, it is hard to say how many emails I will no longer have filling up my Inbox and Junk box each day/week/month, but I know that it will reap tangible time savings!

Another organizational task completed was an inventory of our chest freezer which will allow me to plan future meals around the harvest we still have on hand from last year. I try to coordinate the emptying of the freezer and the time of the new harvest. I see fried apples, zucchini bread, homemade tomato sauce, stir-fry and slaw on our horizon, all made from produce of our last garden.

Favorite Pinterest Pins of the Week!

I have so many pins I want to share with you that I had a hard time deciding this section. I am still in the flower and garden mode, but with a creative craftiness to it this week! The folks that imagined and created the Pinterest pins I'm sharing today are truly artists. I'm sure I've said it before, but nevertheless, I thank God for giving the gift of imagination!

Table Leg Dragonflies by Lucy Design via Karla Hayden on Pinterest

[if you'd like to repin - CLICK here ]

Dragonflies! When I grew up in Florida, I wasn't afraid of dragonflies the same way I was frogs and lizards. I had no problem catching the dragonflies to get a closer look; I guess that's why I still love them today. When I ran across these beauties, I wondered how I could incorporate them in my yard since I don't have a big wood fence for display (...I'm still pondering that one!). I really love the imagination that saw these dragonflies in discarded table legs and ceiling fan blades. I love the creativity!

Now for this next pin, if you looked quickly at the picture, perhaps you were as surprised as I was that these roses are made out of duct tape! They look stunningly realistic. I've made duct tape flowers before, but I now see that roses are the ideal duct tape flowers. I really think it's great that there is no need to remember to water these to assure they won't wilt.

Source: MAKE via TheShadyPorch on Pinterest

[if you'd like to repin - CLICK here]

“With rushing winds and gloomy skies The dark and stubborn Winter dies:

Far-off, unseen, Spring faintly cries, Bidding her earliest child arise; March!”

~Bayard Taylor

I shared this post at these great parties...Alderberry Hill, The Girl Creative, Flamingo Toes, Homemaker On A Dime, Nifty Thrifty Things, Under The Table & Dreaming, Hear The Bells,

Saltine Toffee...the best of both Salty & Sweet!

2012-02-24T21:55:00.000-05:00

As I've mentioned before, I've only recently discovered the popular taste combo of salty and sweet, so when I ran across this candy recipe I thought it might be a hit among friends and family, too. I like having something on standby for when company drops by, and this recipe stores well for such occasions (or so I've read). This takes little time and effort to prepare which is fine by me! Salty, Sweet, Chocolaty goodness (this I can attest to)...Enjoy!

Saltine Toffee

Ingredients:

1-2 sleeves of saltine crackers, (depends on size of cookie sheet you're using)

1 stick of butter

1 cup of packed brown sugar
( I used Splenda brown sugar blend)

2 cups of chocolate chips

(Note - added sprinkled pecan pieces over mine, too)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Arrange crackers in single layer on cookie sheet Covering the entire sheet with no space between crackers

Heat the butter and brown sugar in small saucepan over medium heat. Stir and heat to boil.

Once the mixture boils for about 2 minutes, turn down the heat and simmer for another 1-2 minutes, until mixture is thicker and the sugar has has dissolved.

Now carefully pour butter-sugar mix (toffee) over the crackers, try to cover all of the crackers. Spread it out, if possible. If not, don't worry the toffee will spread in the oven.

Bake the toffee crackers for 5 minutes. Carefully remove and allow to cool 1 minute.

Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the hot toffee, allow to sit until chips have melted. Take spatula and spread the melted chocolate over entire surface of toffee in an even layer. While chocolate is still soft, sprinkle with cracker crumbs, or pecan pieces, as desired.

Refrigerate the pan of toffee for 15-30 minutes. Once the chocolate has set break toffee into small uneven pieces like peanut brittle and serve.

Store leftover toffee in an airtight container for up to a week...if it lasts that long!

This recipe is from About.com

I shared this recipe at ....Country Momma Cooks, Thrifty Decorating, Lolly Jane Boutique,
Tatertots & Jello, Six Sisters' Stuff, Grocery Cart Challenge, The Sweet Spot, My 1929 Charmer,
Serenity You, Alderberry Hill, The Girl Creative, Flamingo Toes, Homemaker On A Dime,
Nifty Thrifty Things, Under The Table & Dreaming, Hear The Bells, Cozy Home Scenes,
Coastal Charm, 2805,

If you haven't already, be sure to "linky" follow - let me know and I'll follow you back!

Rock 'N Share #17

2012-02-22T00:10:00.000-05:00

Howdy! It's so good to see you here!

Before we begin allow me a moment to say THANKS! Thanks for being here! Thanks for sharing your talents, your time spent with loved ones, your homes, your humor and your time! I appreciate it!

Just as a reminder, I announced the Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery inductees on my new Sunday post. You can check them out here at the Porch Parade: Favs, Pins, Menus' & Tips #2! Congrats to the new inductees and don't forget your R 'N S Gallery button on my new button page!

Now to get the Rock 'N Share Rockin' here are a few rules:

Follow The Shady Porch! - I would love to have you follow The Shady Porch adventures! I have Facebook, Linky Followers, Google+ and Twitter too! I always FOLLOW BACK, just leave me a note so I'll know!

I also ask ...

*Everything be family friendly!

*Link up your own projects...something that you've created.
Please only post projects new to the Rock 'N Share...no repeats from previous
parties!

* Link to a specific post - NOT your Home page! No Etsy shops or other businesses!

* Mingle! Introduce yourself (comment) on other party projects! Be kind! Make new friends!

I reserve the right to remove links that are in violation of these requests!

***PARTY BENEFITS***

I will be sharing my favorite posts on my Facebook page throughout the week!
The party posts with the most views will be added to the Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery!
Be sure to check the Porch Parade: Favs, Pins, Menus' & Tips #2 each Sunday to see if you've been featured!

Shepherd's Pie aka Cottage Pie

2012-02-21T23:05:00.000-05:00

Shepherd's Pie aka Cottage Pie

We love Shepherd's Pie at our house and, though tradition says it began as a way to use leftovers, we rarely wait for leftovers to make ours. It is said that imitation is the highest form of flattery, so whether it's a British dish or Irish, I am sharing my Americanized version here. I've read many recipes for the dish and I've added my tweaks and tips to get the dish prepared in less time without sacrificing anything in flavor. In my hunt for ideas and methods to better the dish, I ran across a story about Donovan's Pub in Queens, NY, where the Donovan brothers have been preparing their American-Irish version for the past 46 years, it looks awesome and I would love to visit Donovan's to try it one day!

(video link - Source: Shepherd's Pie At Donovan's Pub via CHOW by: Liza de Guia).

My starting point, rather than the traditional lamb (from which the dish draws its name), for my version of this dish has always been ground sirloin. I have also heard the dish called Cottage Pie, suggesting humble beginnings as a poor man's dish. I have no problem with that as I am a fan of inexpensive and tasty!

Here is my version of Shepherd's Pie aka Cottage Pie

2 lbs ground sirloin

6 lg. Idaho potatoes - chopped & rinsed (I used what I have on hand, but really any variety of potatoes make a great mash.)

Shepherd's Pie with Cheddar cheese on top

1/2 c. milk or cream ( I use buttermilk, if I have it on hand.)

2 T. butter

1/4 c. sour cream

4 T. olive oil

2-4 cloves finely chopped garlic

3/4 c. chopped onion

1- 12oz. pkg - Mixed Vegeables (corn, peas, carrots, green beans) - frozen

1 can whole kernel corn, drained

1 1/2 c. beef broth

3 T. ketcup or cocktail sauce

1/2 c. cheddar cheese, shredded

1/4 c. flour (SR or all-purpose, it really doesn't matter)

salt and pepper, to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Prepare 9x12 casserole dish with cooking spray. Set aside.

Saute onion and garlic in olive oil until lightly browned. Add ground sirloin and cook until well browned. Drain beef, if needed.

Place chopped and rinsed potatoes in Ziploc Zip 'N Steam bag(s). I used 2 steamer bags. I no longer peel my potatoes since we've learned the skin is where the bulk of a potato's nutrients come from. It's such a great time savings, too! Cook in microwave, according to steamer bag directions. My brand called for 8 minutes (each bag).

Once the potatoes are out of the microwave, I microwave my frozen vegetables according to the instructions on the packaging. Once cooked, add the drained can of corn and mix well.

To prepare the beef gravy - Add flour to drained, well browned beef. Stir in and cook for a minute or so. Add beef broth and ketchup to the meat mixture. If you like peppery gravy, now is the time to add about 1/2 teaspoon. Simmer for 6-7 minutes.

To prepare the mashed potatoes - Be careful opening the steam bags (the escaping steam can be surprisingly hot..even if allowed to rest for a couple of minutes.) Empty bag(s) into large mixing bowl. Beat with mixer until potatoes are in little pieces. Add butter, milk (cream or buttermilk), sour cream, salt and pepper. Beat until fluffy and lump free. Add milk as needed until the desired consistency of your mashed potatoes is reached.

Shepherd's Pie Layering Steps - #1 Beef & Gravy, #2 Mixed Veggies & #3 Mashed Potatoes

To assemble in the prepared cooking dish -

Even layer of meat-gravy mixture.
Next, top with an even layer of the mixed vegetables.
Finally, finish with a layer of the mashed potatoes.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until the top gets a little crusty or begins to brown.
In the final minutes sprinkle the cheese on top and bake until it melts and browns up.

This recipe makes 10-12 servings. We like to store leftovers in single serving-sized containers for lunches that week! Just microwave to reheat! My hubby thinks it sure beats cafeteria food! (He also thinks shepherds eat pretty well, as a rule!)

NOTE: You might want to put a cookie sheet under the dish in case it bubbles over during cooking.

I shared this yummy recipe at these great parties! Join me!Permanent Posies, The Sweet Spot, Lines Across My Face, Not Just A Housewife, Polka Dots on Parade, Sew Much Ado, Uncommonly Yours, Organize & Decorate Everything, Savvy Southern Style, I Gotta Create, Blissful & Domestic, Two Yellow Birds Decor, Miz Helen's Country Cottage, Country Momma Cooks, Thrifty Decorator, Lolly Janes Boutique, Serenity You, Tatertots & Jello, Six Sisters' Stuff, Grocery Cart Challenge, My 1929 Charmer,

Porch Parade: Faves, Pins, Menus & Tips #2

2012-02-19T20:30:00.000-05:00

In case you missed it...last Sunday, I announced the new recurring post called The Porch Parade! Each Sunday, I will share the Rock 'n Share Gallery features from last week's linky party, my weekly menu, my 2012 de-cluttering progress, and, finally, some of my favorite Pinterest pin(s)!

Rock 'N Share Gallery
This week's Rock 'N Share had a wide array of projects! We really had something for everyone...Recipes, Makeovers, Tutorials, Sewing, Photography and Printables. I love the diversity displayed each week, so thanks to all for sharing your gifts and talents! Now the most viewed posts of the week were....

Lodge Look Pillow

by Suppers, Youngans & Thangs

Homemade Spaghetti-O's

by Big Bear's Wife

Love Is....by Just Paint It White

Congrats Ladies!

Check out all of the

Rock 'N Share Gallery Inductees here!

(Don't forget your feature button! (see button page)

Dinner Menu for week of 2-20

Lasagna Soup w/Fire & Ice Salad
Stuffed Sole w/Baked Potato/Salad
Homemade Pizza Night or Breakfast for Dinner
Crockpot Turkey Breast w/Dressing & Green beans
Homemade Charley's Philly Chicken Sandwiches w/baked Steak fries
Shepherd's Pie
Chicken Lo Mein with Peanut Sauce

Lasagna Soup

Less Mess = Less Stress...I believe this!!

K-Cup storage dilemma

I am attacking the pockets of clutter that plague our home in 2012! I am not just cleaning up; I am finding solutions that will eliminate these problem areas for good! (fingers crossed!)

The problem I tackled this week was actually a new (and very nice) problem to have. We received a Keurig coffee machine for Christmas, and soon realized, with all of the coffee flavors we liked to have on hand, we were losing valuable counter space! This being February, you can see there was no rush to finding a solution.

K-cup clean-up complete

I thought about making something to house the K-cups, or using something already on hand, but nothing arose to solve
the problem. Then one day, I saw a catalog item with slide out tray designed to sit under the Keurig machine. This required no additional counter space since it fit neatly under the machine exactly where the coffee should be. However, I was not a fan of the $25 (plus $8 shipping) price. So, my quest changed... to find a similar solution, but for less $$.
Just this weekend, we found a plastic drawer unit, almost like the catalog item. Before victory could be proclaimed, we had to address a few issues: 1. Could it hold the weight of the machine full of water? 2. Was there a danger of the plastic getting hot and compromising the stability (or worse, causing a fire?) and 3. Would it look good?
Victory proclaimed! We painted the clear plastic drawer black to match the coffee maker and reinforced the top with a scrap piece of concrete backer board (also painted black) The backer board serves two purposes - it stabilizes the top and separates any heat issues between the Keurig and the plastic drawer! Problem solved for a little over $9! Sweet! (and it holds over 30 K-cups!)

Favorite Pinterest Pins of the Week!

"It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want - oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!" ~Mark Twain

Mr. Twain has diagnosed my symptoms, and now I know...I have Spring Fever! Although, winter never really arrived, I am pining for Spring and it is evident in my pinning!


Source: SCIENCEPHOTOLIBRARY via Hilary Gaston at Pinterest

This picture single-handedly caused my fever to spike! This photo takes me back to childhood at my grandma's house in Florida! All of the wood had this gray weathered look and I can just see myself as a child sitting on this old log in her backyard, probably eating grapes from her arbor. I would love to have this old log in my backyard so I could sit, ponder and pray. I also love how the gray wood works as the perfect background to an explosion of flowers, that could even make a grumpy man (or woman...but most likely a man) smile.


Source: 9GAG via joe brady at Pinterest

I guess I'm a bit nostalgic as I share these pins because this photo of the flowers spilling down the hill (photo called Spilt Milk) makes me think of my Kentucky gran. She was a gardener - flowers, veggies, indoors, outside, hanging,... it didn't matter, she could make it grow! Nan would have loved this, and, had she seen this, would have likely done the same on her own hillside when I was growing up. I want to copy it myself...I have the perfect hillside! Now, I just need to find an old milk container and and a hollow log and I am ready to start my Spring!

Are you pining for the winter that never arrived or are you ready for Spring?

I shared this post at these great parties! - Six Sister's Stuff, Happy Go Lucky, Sassy Sites, Permanent Posies, The Sweet Spot, Lines Across My Face, Not Just A Housewife, Organize & Decorate Everything,
Polka Dots On Parade,

Guest Bedroom: Makeover In The Making

2012-02-17T21:49:00.001-05:00

Recently, we started a makeover project in our guest bedroom. When we moved in we removed the carpet to expose the hardwood in every room but this one. I can't remember the logic in that decision now, however, we want to unify the flooring throughout the house so that was step 1 of our makeover - remove carpet and finish hardwood floor. I'll share the results of Step 1 when it is completed.

I have been pinning to get ideas for the makeover. I thought I would share some of my inspiring Pinterest pins to show you the design plan I'm favoring.

This is the color palette I've chosen for the room. I've always tried to keep the bedrooms a nice balance of feminine and masculine. I think that gray and yellow is a perfect His & Her color combination.

Source: COLOURLOVERS on Pinterest

Here is an example of the colors working together in another bedroom makeover.

LOVE IT!!

Source: Craftaholics Anonymous via Kate Burtenshaw on Pinterest

I am thinking of adding a gloss-on-matte paint technique to the focal wall behind the headboard...possibly pulling a design from the bedding I choose. Here are some examples of the wall treatment I am referring to.

Source: Mod Remod on Pinterest

[Photo on Left]

Source: Paperblog on Pinterest

[Photo on right]

Here are some of the bedding options that we like. The hubby and I have always gravitated to contemporary, graphic designs, especially in our bedding. I am going to use the gray/black/white colors in the bedding and yellow in the accents in the room.

Source: BedBathHome - Talon - Triangle Home Fashions via Pinterest

Source: Macys - Manuscript by Martha Stewart on Pinterest

Source: Home Decorating Co.com - Clearwater Bedding by Nautica on Pinterest

Well that covers the basics for now...I will keep you posted until the BIG reveal!

What do you think of the color palette ?

Do you like the gray/yellow combo? I think it's restful and gender friendly, do you agree?

Which one of the bedding options do you prefer?

I shared this Makeover in the Making at these great parties - Tatertots & Jello, Country Momma Cooks,
The Shabby Nest, Whipperberry, Blissful & Domestic, Serenity You, I Gotta Create, Six Sister's Stuff,

Rock 'N Share #16

2012-02-15T00:15:00.000-05:00

FYI - Pretty cool blog hop called Spreading Love Weekend Blog Hop at Gumdrop Pass! Link up your blog, FB page, Pinterest, +1, etc! Check it out!

Welcome to the Rock 'N Share!

In case you haven't heard, I am now announcing the Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery inductees on my new Sunday post. You can check them out here at the Porch Parade: Favs, Pins, Menus' & Tips! Congrats to the new inductees and don't forget your R 'N S Gallery button on my new button page!

Now to get the Rock 'N Share Rockin' here are a few rules:

Follow The Shady Porch! - Although, it's not a requirement, I would appreciate it & I will always follow back! **Just leave me a comment, so I'll know!**

I also ask ...

* Everything be family friendly!

* Link up your own projects...something that you've created. Please only post projects new to the Rock 'N Share...no repeats from previous parties!

* Link to a specific post - NOT your Home page! No Etsy shops or other businesses!

* Mingle! Introduce yourself (comment) on other party projects! Be kind! Make new friends!

I reserve the right to remove links that are in violation of these requests!

***PARTY BENEFITS***

I will be sharing my favorite posts on my Facebook page throughout the week!
The party posts with the most views will be added to the Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery!
Be sure to check the Porch Parade: Favs, Pins, Menus' & Tips each Sunday to see if you've been featured!

Apple Coffee Cake

2012-02-14T23:37:00.000-05:00

Moist and Delicious, yet so easy to prepare - Apple Coffee Cake

Have you ever read a review of a movie and rushed right out to see it...and it was every bit as good as you hoped it would be? Then you understand how I felt when I read about this cake at Aunt Nubby's Kitchen. I had to make it! It is one of those easy cakes that tastes so good, your guests will think "It's probably too hard to make so I won't bother asking for the recipe." Hee-hee-hee! I love those recipes...although, as my friends and family know, I'll spill the beans and tell my secrets every time! (I try to apply the "freely you have received, freely give" (Matt.10:8) verse to all aspects of my life, even recipes.)

So...here's the delicious, yet easy, Apple Coffee Cake recipe -

Ingredients :

1 box of Spice cake mix

1/4 c. water (if I have it on hand, I use buttermilk)

2 T. oil

3 eggs

3/4 c. sour cream

1 t. almond extract

1 1/2 t. ground cinnamon

1 can Apple Pie filling

1c. walnuts, chopped (if desired)

Glaze

2/3 cup confectioners' sugar

2 -3 teaspoons milk

Glazed Apple Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare a tube pan or bundt pan with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, water, oil, eggs, sour cream, cinnamon and almond extract - beat until blended.
Add pie filling; beat for 2 minutes. Stir in walnuts, if desired.
Pour batter into prepared pan; bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
Glaze - While cake is cooling in the pan prepare the glaze - combine confectioners' sugar and milk in a small bowl, mix until smooth.
Remove cake from pan.
Drizzle glaze over cooled cake.

Enjoy!

Original recipe is from - Taste of Home Almost Homemade Cookbook

I shared this recipe at - Make Ahead Meals, This Chick Cooks, 733 Blog, Bizzy Bakes,
Lil Luna, The Sweet Spot, Hear The Bells, Our Delightful Home, Fireflies and Jellybeans,
Made In A Day, Fantastical Sharing of Recipes, Big Bear's Wife, Blissful & Domestic,
House of Hepworths, Craftionary, The Frugal Girls, Tatertots & Jello, The Shabby Nest,
Whipperberry, Serenity You, Serenity Now, Thirty Handmade Days, The Grocery Cart Challenge,
I Gotta Create, Happy Go Lucky, Sassy Sites,

Porch Parade: Favs, Pins, Menus & Tips

2012-02-12T23:44:00.000-05:00

I said I would, and so I am...

Welcome to the first Shady Porch Weekly recurring post, The Porch Parade.

Each Sunday, The Porch Parade will highlight four facets of my blog life in one, central location. First, I will announce the most viewed posts from the previous week's Rock 'n Share linky party. These weekly featured posts will still be added to the Rock 'N Share Gallery on Pinterest. My favorites of the week will still be featured on my Facebook page as well.

In addition to the Gallery features, I will include our Weekly Menu. I never felt like my menu choices warranted a post all their own, so it will be the second feature of The Porch Parade.

Next, I've been working on cutting clutter in 2012, so I will share my Clutter Reduction Tips during The Porch Parade. This will mean including some of my (shameful) Before & (so proud) After photos to document my de-cluttering progress! Be sure to let me know if these help (mainly so I will know I am not alone in my battle with junkiness!)

Finally, I will share my Favorite Pin of the Week. If you've been by my Pinterest page, you have seen I am a huge fan! I have 104 Boards - 2974 Pins and 32 Likes!

Let's get the Parade started...

This week's Rock 'N Share Gallery Inductees are...

Operation: Organization-Personal
Information by Home: Made

Chocolate Bliss Cake by
Chocolate, Chocolate & More Chocolate

New Tray Turned Old Tray
by A Little Knick Knack

Congrats Ladies!

Check out all of the

Rock 'N Share Gallery

Inductees!

(Don't forget your feature button! (see sidebar)

Now for The Shady Porch Weekly Menu...
Now I can give you what's on the menu for the week, but I truly cannot say what day it will be prepared. I cannot lock myself down that tight or I start to squirm....you know what I mean, right? I just have to go with what sounds good that day and run with it. Bottom line...I know that I have what I need to prepare these meals and therefore that's what's on the menu this week.

Dinner Menu for week of 2-13

Cobb Salad with the Olive Garden dressing (new recipe)
Chicken Parmesan (new recipe)
Chicken Gyros
Homemade Pizza/Salad
Breakfast for Dinner
Italian Sausage Sandwiches
Salisbury Steak

My Clutter Reduction - This weeks clutter reduction addresses a common aggravation: measuring cups/spoons. At one time I kept my measuring utensils in a drawer. The cups were held together on a ring, but once a cup was used, getting back ON the ring was unlikely and all of the loose cups cluttered the drawer. So I decided to keep my measuring cups and spoons on the ring on a magnetic hook under my range hood. Every time I wanted to use a one I would remove the ring from the hook and then the specific spoon/cup from the plastic ring. Maybe I just needed to exercise better patience, but I'll confess it really bugged me having to stop what I was doing to flip through those spoons, and thread it off the ring when all I wanted to do is cook!

So to solve my problem...we stained 2 pieces of scrap wood, attached them to the underside of my kitchen cabinets (hidden, but perfectly positioned corner), and drove small finishing nails in a staggered pattern along the wood pieces and hung the measuring utensils individually. Now, when I want a specific spoon or cup, that is the ONLY ONE I need to mess with. (And I think they look cool.) Problem solved!

My Favorite Pinterest Pin(s) of the Week ....did you really think I could stop at just one?

The Most Common Cooking Mistakes
by Cooking Light

This Pin caught my eye because of the title more than the picture. Most of our meals are home-cooked and I thought this Pin could help me be a better cook. For instance, I was guilty of #23 - You pop meat straight from the fridge into the oven or onto the grill! Oops! I did not know or maybe I forgot, this causes the meat to cook unevenly! There are 40 Common Mistakes in this eyeopening post. Even if you've been cooking for ages, like me, this article is a great refresher course.

Reader Request: Sewing Room Ideas

by Belclaire House

I pinned this next pic because I am about to makeover my workspace (used for crafting, clerical, etc). My current space is a former closet and, although not unique, it is unusual so when I ran across this inspiring pic, I had no choice but to Pin it! I will have makeover pics when I get the project completed...promise!

I shared this post at these great parties - Alderberry Hill, Get Outta My Head, Lines Across My Face,

Sassy, Playful Valentine Decorations

2012-02-11T20:45:00.001-05:00

I crafted several Valentine's Day decorations to add some color and playful romance to the house. I think this is the only time of year I can get away with splashes of pink, polka dots and doilies around the house without hearing about it. Lol! We are gender neutral in our home decor which is usually fine with me.


Basket of 'heart flowers' with the sentiment, "One hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you."

I've already shared my Hugs & Kisses door decoration with you. I used my burlap wreath for the 'O' and crafted the 'X' using paint stir sticks and coffee filters. I wanted something other than a traditional wreath and I think this served well...greeting my guests with a Hug & a Kiss!

Once I had the door decoration finished, I faced a dilemma...I had a heart-shaped basket, made to be a door hanging, that was perfect for the season of love. Because of its design, it needed help to stay vertical, so I created a stand out of an empty cardboard ribbon spool. First, I cut a 'v' notch in it so the entire basket might be seen. Next, I hot glued pink stones to the spool to create a glimmering shell. Then, I painted the basket pink and filled it with 'heart flowers' made of felt and pipe cleaners. Finally, to the flower bunch, I added a dangling wood heart with the sentiment, "One hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you."

Pink & Polka Dots

Next, I placed a large, white 3-wick candle on a silver candle stand. I wrapped the candle in a pink and white polka dot ribbon and embellished the stand with a white paper doily and a stenciled wood sign declaring, "You Light Up My Life."

Valentine Subway Art board

Since I began blogging, I have created a subway art piece for each holiday, so, using the same steps used in the first subway art this Fall, I created a Valentine Romance piece. The Valentine clip art, the colors, and paper doily edging give a Victorian vibe to this heartfelt subway art board.

My final project was a homemade Valentine for my hubby (yes, he got his a little early this year). We had been discussing the ruckus in the news about the predictions of the end of the world coming Dec. 21, 2012, based on prophecies connected with the Mayan calendar. Not long after that discussion, I thought of the following sentiment.

"I'll Love You Till The End of Time...Oh, I Know Some Say That's Only Months Away... But Don't Worry Baby...You Will Always Be MAYAN (mine)."

My cerebral logophile hubby - who is a hopeless punner - totally got it (declaring it "brilliant") and we have laughed about it numerous times since I shared it with him. I couldn't have been happier with his response.

Happy Valentine's Day!

You can find these projects on my Pinterest Valentine board too!
I linked up at these great parties! Join me! - Six Sisters' Stuff, 5 Minutes Just For Me,
Along For the Ride, Days of Chalk and Chocolate, Whipperberry, I Gotta Create, Tatertots and Jello, Gingerbread, I Heart NapTime, Stuff and Nonsense, Funky Junk Interiors, Be Different Act Normal, The Shabby Nest, My 1929 Charmer, Alderberry Hill, Get Outta My Head, Lines Across My Face,

Linky Follower Blog Hop

2012-02-11T01:48:00.000-05:00

Rumors abound regarding the elimination of GOOGLE Friend Connect

on Feb 29 for anyone that doesn't use Blogspot & eventually Blogspot users too!

We all know how we love our blog followers and the idea of losing them is unsettling to say the least! SO what to do? There is an answer.... Linky Followers ...and it's FREE!

You can have both GFC (for as long as it's available) and Linky Followers!

You can grab the party button code in the FOOTER at Its So Very Cheri

There are lots of great features...for example, you can view all your followers and their profiles, there is a scrolling feed of the blogs you're following, and it's easy to add the Linky Followers widget to your blog, just to name a few!

So to celebrate this fun new blogging tool...I'm hosting a party!

This BLOG HOP is an opportunity to join Linky Followers and to add new Linky 'Followers' to your blog!

BLOG HOP MUST DO's...

1. Obviously, you MUST have a Linky Followers account and widget on your site to participate.

2. You MUST follow the host of the blog hop as a Thank You for hosting!

3. MUST add your blog button, URL and blog name to the linky party below.

4. MUST add the BLOG HOP code to your party post, if you decide host the blog hop on your site!

You will find the BLOG HOP CODE at the very bottom of the Linky Party where it says CLICK HERE TO ENTER– just under that it says:
WHAT IS A BLOG HOP?
GET THE CODE HERE Click on GET THE CODE HERE and enter it into a post (html) on your site.

5. Now go follow other bloggers and leave each one of the blogs that you follow a comment letting them know you are following them and ask them to follow you back!

BTW - I ALWAYS FOLLOW BACK! ;)

Rock 'N Share #15

2012-02-08T09:52:00.001-05:00

If you're looking for the Crazy Cooking Challenge (vote for my by clicking on #60) you can find it HERE!

Welcome to the Rock 'N Share! I'm running late but hopefully you're still ready to party!

Presenting this week's Rock 'N Share Stars now in the

Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery!

Feel free to pick up a Feature button on the sidebar.
Congratulations!

Fruit of the Spirit – Free Printable by Fruit of the Spirit

Apple Pie Crescents by Mess For Less

Chalkboard Paint & Terra Cotta Pots by A Lapin Life

Love & Valentine Greetings Mailbox Planter by Timeless Treasures

These are all wonderful blogs that you will find interesting and inspiring!

Stop by and say, hi! They'll make you feel welcome!

Thank You for joining the party!

Now to the Party!

The only requirement is a link back! (No link back = No features)--- a text link at the bottom of your post, or a Rock 'N Share button (see below)! You may copy and paste the text link provided below onto your blog post, in the event you are not sure how to do it otherwise. The Shady Porch

Please follow The Shady Porch!

Although, it's NOT a requirement, I would appreciate it & I will always follow back!

**Just leave me a comment, so I'll know!**

I also ask ...

* Everything be family friendly!

* Link up your own projects...something that you've created. Please only post projects new to the Rock 'N Share...no repeats from previous parties!

* Link to a specific post - NOT your Home page! No Etsy shops or other businesses!

* Mingle! Introduce yourself (comment) on other party projects! Be kind! Make new friends!

I reserve the right to remove links that are in violation of these requests!

I will be sharing my personal favorites on my Facebook page throughout the week!

Most viewed posts make the weekly Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery!

Be sure to check back each Wednesday to see if you've been featured!

I apologize for my tardiness but we've had another aunt go home to be with the Lord and I lost a day somewhere along the way.

Chocolaty Chocolate Cake

2012-02-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome! I would love for you to vote for me by clicking on#60!

I look forward to the Crazy Cooking Challenge each month...and so does my family! This month was especially pleasing to them since they LOVE anything chocolate! We've been fans of the moist, chocolaty, Hershey's Perfectly Chocolate cake for a while so I looked for blogs that had prepared and highlighted the recipe and chose my source using that approach.

Moist, and delicious...Chocolaty, Chocolate Cake

I found the Hershey's recipe at Christy's blog, The Girl Who Ate Everything. (Isn't that just a great name for a food blog?!) The first things I noticed at Christy's blog were her outstanding photos! Just by looking at the pictures, I found several recipes I can't wait to try! Then her story about wanting a chocolate birthday cake and her hubby's preparation of it and the ensuing mishap was both endearing and humorous...they end up 'blowing it to smithereens.' You really should read the whole story! If you stop by, let her know you found her through the Crazy Cooking Challenge.

A perfect bite of Chocolaty, Chocolate Cake!

Chocolaty Chocolate Cake
(as adapted from the Hershey's Perfectly Chocolate Cake recipe on the cocoa box)

2 cups of Splenda Blend

1 3/4 c. self-rising flour

3/4 c. Hershey's cocoa powder

2 eggs

1 c. buttermilk

1/2 c. vegetable oil

2 t. vanilla extract

1 c. boiling water

Directions - Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large mixing bowl, stir together sugar, flour, cocoa. Add eggs, milk, oil and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water, the batter will be thin.. Pour into prepared pans.

Bake 30 minutes or until wooden toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before icing cake.

Icing :

1/2 c. butter

2/3 c. Hershey's cocoa powder

3 cups confectioners sugar

1/3 c. milk

1 t. vanilla extract

Directions - In medium mixing bowl- melt butter then stir in cocoa. Alternately add powdered sugar and milk, beating to spreading consistency. Add small amount additional milk, if needed. Stir in vanilla.

I shared this recipe at these great parties too! - The Shabby Creek Cottage,

Hugs & Kisses Valentine Door Decoration

2012-02-06T02:04:00.002-05:00


Some of the supplies I used - coffee filters, paint sticks, white paint

Regular visitors to the Porch probably recognize the red burlap wreath by now...I've used it as a Game Day wreath (this post explains how I made the burlap wreath), and a Christmas wreath and, as promised, here it is again for Valentine's Day! I decided to go with the age old XOXO, hugs and kisses sentiment for this year's Valentine wreath and I'm pretty happy with the results!


Paint stir sticks rubber banded to form the X

Did you know there is some debate as to which symbol is the Hug and which stands for the Kiss? I thought I knew until I tried to verify it online and I just ended up confused! Do you think the X is for Kisses or the O?

Anyway... to make the X, I took two paint sticks and rubber banded them into the X pattern and then I took coffee filters and folded them into a triangle, then I folded the tip at a right angle and hot glued it to the stick overlapping the coffee filter tips as I glued them on. The last section to complete was the middle of the X and I simply filled it in as much as I could and then used my wooden hearts to embellish the wreath/door decoration.

I painted the wooden hearts white and then using Microsoft Power Point, I typed up the Hugs and Kisses and added some heart clip art. Then I printed the PPT slide on Grafix Rub-Onz transfer sheets (I am not being compensated for this by the Grafix folks...it is just a product that I love!) creating a rub-on transfer. There are 3 steps to the process: print it on their paper, add the adhesive sheet to the paper in Step 1, and finally rub it on (transfer) the surface (paper, chipboard, transparencies, glass, wood, & non-porous) you want. To finish, I used red tulle to tie the X and O together and again to hang it on the door.

I hope your Valentine's Day is extra special and filled with Hugs & Kisses!

I shared this project at these great parties! - Tatertots & Jello, Lisa's Craft Blog,
Mad In Crafts, Get Outta My Head Please, You're Talking Too Much, Cheap Crafty Mama,
DIY Home Sweet Home, So Very Creative, Ask Anna, 3 Mango Seeds, I Gotta Create, Marcia's Crafty Sewing & Quilting, My 1929 Charmer, Thrifty Decor Chick, Lines Across My Face, Alderberry Hill,
Natural Mother's Network, Savvy Southern Style, The Shabby Creek Cottage, Saved by Love Creations,
Homework, Just A Little Creativity,

Creamy Peanut Butter Dip & Super Bowl Munchies!

2012-02-03T00:00:00.002-05:00

I thought I would share a roundup of some of the yummy snacks and appetizers I recommend for the Super Bowl! The fellas...and gals, too...can work up an appetite what with all of the cheering, laughing, and general fan behavior (and that is just for the COMMERCIALS!) Therefore, it's needful to have something on hand to sustain the fans until the final whistle! All of these recipes are really easy to prepare and are sure to please your crowd!

#1 Creamy Peanut Butter Dip

Creamy Peanut Butter Dip

This is a recipe for a easily prepared bowl of YUM! With only 4 ingredients, this dip can be whippped up lickety-split if guests arrive or anytime the munchies strike! It is delicious with apples, pretzels or celery...and probably anything else you like to dip! Some of you might remember the Truly Easy and Awesome Apple Dip recipe, which was a caramel based dip. This one is peanut butter based and both are equally awesome!

Ingredients & Directions

1 8oz pkg cream cheese, softened*

1 cup of creamy peanut butter

1/2 Splenda brown sugar (you can use regular brown sugar, also light or dark, it doesn't matter)

1/4 to 1/2 cup of milk, depends on how creamy you want your dip.

*To soften cream cheese in a hurry, just open and place in a microwavable bowl and nuke it for 15-20 seconds. It won't be totally soft but it's enough mix it easily!

Original recipe from AllRecipes.com

The following recipes are perfect for any party gathering and have been tested and have received great accolades from friends and family!

#2 Calzone Rolls

#3 Pizza Pops

#4 Mozzarella Sticks

#5 Cheesy Potato Poppers

I can't say that I've ever watched an entire Super Bowl game...I'm just not a big fan of NFL football. Of course, "our team" (my hubby's and my brother's) has not been to the Super Bowl in modern history! (Dad is a Bengals fan, and, although they have been to The Game (twice), the outcome was not good...at all! lol!) I have enjoyed some of the Super Bowl commercials in the past and I've seen some of the half-time shows over the years. Nevertheless, I love nearly any opportunity to entertain friends and family, and I hope you get to spend time with yours this weekend, too.

Go Team!!

I shared these great Super Bowl munchies at these cool parties! -

Hear The Bells, Marcia's Crafty Sewing, House of Hepworth, Fireflies and Jellybeans, Sassy Sites, Happy Go Lucky, One Artsy Mama,Stuff and Nonsense, At The Picket Fence, Country Momma Cooks, I Gotta Create, Kid's Delight hosted by Edible Entertainment,

My 1929 Charmer,

Rock 'N Share #14

2012-02-01T00:02:00.000-05:00

Hey Everybody! Come on in and let's get this party started! I am so excited to see all of the wonderful ideas you have for the Super Bowl, Valentine's Day and any other day of the week! You're all so gifted and you're an inspiration to me and many others...So don't hide it under a bushel, share it with us here!

Presenting this week's Rock 'N Share Stars now in the

Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery!

Feel free to pick up a Feature button on the sidebar.
Congratulations!


*Fabric Wall Appliques! by Whimsy-Ma-Blog*

House Tour by A Place to Call Home

Easiest Baby Blanket Ever by I Can't Stop Crafting

Cherry Charms by Lily Pad Quilting

These are all wonderful blogs that you will find interesting and inspiring!

Stop by and say, hi! They'll make you feel welcome!

Thank You for joining the party!

Now to the Party!

Please follow The Shady Porch!

Although, it's NOT a requirement, I would appreciate it & I will always follow back!

**Just leave me a comment, so I'll know!**

I also ask ...

* Everything be family friendly!

* Link up your own projects...something that you've created. Please only post projects new to the Rock 'N Share...no repeats from previous parties!

* Link to a specific post - NOT your Home page! No Etsy shops or other businesses!

* Mingle! Introduce yourself (comment) on other party projects! Be kind! Make new friends!

I reserve the right to remove links that are in violation of these requests!

I will be sharing my personal favorites on my Facebook page throughout the week!

Most viewed posts make the weekly Rock 'N Share Pinterest Gallery!

Be sure to check back each Wednesday to see if you've been featured!

Jalapeno Cornbread Pancakes and Chili

2012-01-30T23:54:00.000-05:00

Jalapeno Cornbread Pancakes with Chili

I made chili the other night and served it our favorite way - over spaghetti. If you haven't tried chili spaghetti, I recommend it! We top ours with shredded cheddar, onions, jalapeno peppers, and sour cream. It's really delicious.

However, I recently found

a new way to serve chili and thought it would be nice to change things up...especially since it involved making my jalapeno cornbread, too!

The idea I found was to make chili toppers using a cornbread recipe. These chili toppers were pictured sitting atop the bowl of chili. Brilliant? Sure...but I decided to take it a step further. I used my Jalapeno cornbread batter to make full sized pancakes! We had chili pancakes for dinner tonight! I set out the same toppings we usually have with the chili spaghetti and it was awesome! It was a fun way to serve the chili and it was nice to get a bite of jalapeno pancake in each bite too. My hubby and brother were actually licking their plates...that's right chili on a plate...how weird is that?

Jalapeno Cornbread Pancakes

Both recipes, my Very, Very Good Chili and the Jalapeno Cornbread have been posted previously, so I won't share the recipes on this post again. To make the pancakes, I prepared the cornbread according to recipe, but instead of baking, I used our electric griddle and fried them. Cornbread pancakes cook the same way regular pancakes do, so watch for the bubbles then flip them.

To serve, I layered a pancake and then a spoon of chili and then another pancake and then more chili and, finally, topped it with my favorite toppings. It was fun to change up the presentation of our traditional chili dinner! Have you ever changed the presentation of a family favorite? If so, what? How was it received?

For the original "Cornbread Topper" idea, click here.

Yummy bite of Chili and Jalapeno Cornbread Pancakes

** I didn't post a menu this week because we didn't get to fix last weeks menu. We were on the road much of last week due to the "homegoing" of my precious aunt. I thank God that we live with a hope of a reunion one day!

I shared this yummy idea and recipes at - Lines Across My Face, Tatertots and Jello, My 1929 Charmer,
The Grocery Cart Challenge, Get Outta My Head, Permanent Posies,

Cheesy Potato Poppers...great as a meal or a snack!

2012-01-29T20:55:00.000-05:00

This is dish is ideal to serve at your Super Bowl party or the fast approaching NCAA March Madness! These poppers make a great presentation when cut on the diagonal and piled high on a platter next to a bowl of sour cream. Sour Cream with Chives would boost the flavor even more! This dish is so hearty, it can be served as an entree or an appetizer.

Cheesy Potato Poppers...perfect for the big game

Cheesy Potato Poppers

Ingredients:

3 cups frozen, diced potatoes or hash browns (fresh diced potatoes would work well too)

2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1-16oz. container sour cream, divided
3/4 cup cooked bacon pieces
1/3 cup green onions, chopped
Salt & Pepper to taste
2 T. melted butter
14 flour tortillas

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cook potatoes according to package directions (we baked ours

Stir together cooked potatoes, cheese, 1 cup of sour cream, bacon, onions, salt and pepper.

Warm tortillas (a microwave steamer is ideal for this).

Next, spoon mixture into the center of each tortilla and roll burrito-style.

Brush with butter* and place seam-side down on baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool for 3-5 minutes, cut diagonally into halves and serve with remaining sour cream.

Refrigerate any leftovers. Serves 12-14, depending on the number of tortillas you use and how you slice them. *Ours didn't brown as well since we forgot the butter...still tasted great!

A hearty appetizer...Potato Poppers

I shared this yummy recipe at these great parties! Join me! - Country Momma Cooks, The Grocery Cart Challenge, The Girl Creative, Flamingo Toes, Tatertots and Jello, Nifty Thrifty Things, Serenity You,
Natural Mother's Network, My 1929 Charmer, Get Outta My Head, Junk In Their Trunk,
Permanent Posies,

Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini

2012-01-27T00:19:00.001-05:00

The perfect crunchy sandwich with the perfect crunchy side dish.

We love sandwiches at our house! I think a warm grilled sandwich is one of the great comfort foods. (Grilled cheese immediately comes to mind, along with a big YUM!) The panini is a toasted Italian sandwich filled with various combinations of meats, cheeses, and usually vegetables. This particular recipe combines the delicious flavors with chicken, cheddar cheese, bacon, Ranch dressing and Dijon mustard. It is quick and easy to prepare making it a great weekday dinner choice for busy families!

Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini

Ingredients

8 slices Crusty Italian Bread

4 T. butter, softened

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Dijon Mustard or your favorite spicy mustard

Ranch Dressing

4 thick slices Sharp Cheddar Cheese

8 slices cooked Bacon

Instructions:

Cook bacon, set aside.

Cook chicken breasts using your preferred method (I usually bake mine or use the Foreman grill, but, today, I pan fried them.). Slice into strips and set aside.

Slice Italian bread - 8 slices needed

To assemble sandwiches - spread Ranch dressing on one bread slice and Dijon on the other. Be generous... the mustard and Ranch dressing combine to become a "sauce" for the sandwich. Arrange chicken, bacon and cheese on the bottom slice and then add the top slice. Generously butter both sides of the sandwich, grill in panini maker, if you have one. If not, (and I do not...) here's how I made mine. I placed the sandwich in a hot skillet, then pressed it with a foil-wrapped cast iron skillet set on top of the sandwich. The pressing helps brown the bread. Next, flip the sandwich, re-set the cast iron skillet, and brown the other side, too. Slice in half and serve immediately with your favorite sides (pickle spears, chips, tater tots or potato salad, etc.)

Recipe from the Tasty Kitchen

Join me at these great parties - I Gotta Create, Made In A Day, Country Momma Cooks, The Grocery Cart Challenge, The Shabby Nest, Miz Helen's Country Cottage, Hear The Bells, Tatertots & Jello,