tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27150169085142082622012-01-28T12:54:07.098-08:00recipes for everyday livingRachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.comBlogger2841100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-80449798193414216592012-01-23T12:00:00.000-08:002012-01-23T12:06:40.573-08:00

I've been cooking with sprouted lentils for a little over a year. I love the way they taste and how quick they cook up. I'll stick a few recipes up later, but right now wanted to show how easy it is to sprout your own! Step 1: put 2 1/2 cups dry lentils into a half gallon jar. Fill with filtered water and allow to sit 8-12 hours. Here is what they look like after 12 hours. Step 2:

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-26688454385213079722012-01-13T12:00:00.000-08:002012-01-13T12:00:02.947-08:00

What better way to start a winter day than with some hearty granola?! This one is packed with proteins and healthy fats to keep you (or those hungry kids!) full longer and with plenty of energy to start the day. Harvest Spice Granola Ingredients: 9 c. oats 1 c. sliced almonds 1 c. walnuts* 1 c. almonds* 1 c. pecans* 1 c. cashews* 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1 c. pumpkin seeds

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-42177986996350954962011-11-21T09:45:00.001-08:002011-11-21T09:52:10.202-08:00

This was my best seller at the Farmer's Market this summer. And in all honestly, it's my favorite as well. I love the sweet vanilla crunchiness and the tart cherries. In fact, I have some in the oven right now making the whole house smell delicious! Cherry Vanilla 9 c. rolled oats 2 c. sliced almonds 1 c. butter 1 c. honey 1/2 tsp. salt 2-3 Tablespoons vanilla --- 1 c. dried tart

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-83060279992777196902011-11-05T05:27:00.000-07:002011-11-05T05:27:05.309-07:00

I  realized that it has been several months since I have posted anything in my blog. I have taken a bit of an unintentional break. I didn't mean to take so long between posting, though the farmer's market did take alot of my time and was quite exhausting. I ended up shifting all my energies to it in order to make it through till the end: Oct. 1. Over all, I think it was a good experience and I

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-44418955608811711612011-09-02T06:23:00.000-07:002011-09-02T06:26:47.282-07:00

From The Self Healing Kitchen Series by Nina Chanpreet Singh Detox, retox, rinse, repeat! Stuck in a post-Irene stupor? Recovering from too much T.V./FB/Twitter or power outages, sleepless nights, flooding, stormed in partying?  Nerves still wired?  Can’t seem to kick that headache, dull achy pain, or skin inflammation?   Changes in barometric pressure, such as the drop we experienced

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-44863452619929080062011-08-23T19:26:00.000-07:002011-09-17T15:25:32.322-07:00

The recipe you've been looking for! So, my non-gluten-free friends actually like these better than the regular ones I make! They did hit the spot! The texture is not a typical yeast bread texture, it's really hard to describe, but it seems to be that way with all the GF breads. I don't think I will ever enjoy GF as much as I enjoy yeast breads, but this is a close 2nd and an excellent substitute.

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-67530572169497956172011-07-16T09:42:00.000-07:002011-07-16T09:42:01.703-07:00

Being Swedish, I've known of lingonberries since I can remember, so when I first thought of all the different scones to make, I figured I should make a lingonberry scone. But it's not so easy to find them! I thought I could just get some dried, but couldn't find them anywhere. Not that it surprised me not to find them in Montana, but I went over to Washington state for a couple weeks, and I was

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-10974944582844920162011-07-09T09:57:00.000-07:002011-07-09T09:57:07.169-07:00

Apple Cinnamon Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 cup dried apple pieces 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*.  Put dry ingredients in food processor, whir slightly to mix. Cut butter into chunks and put in the food

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-14069977857991097522011-07-02T10:20:00.000-07:002011-07-02T10:20:29.360-07:00

These are nice, light and creamy. The candied lemon peel is perfect when fresh lemon peel is hard to come by or keep around. Scones with Candied Lemon Peel Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 2 tablespoons candied lemon peel 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a food

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-1732367970617399232011-06-18T06:16:00.000-07:002011-06-18T06:16:00.136-07:00

  This is a delicious blend! Perfect with a cup of coffee. Perfectly sweet for breakfast!     Double Chocolate Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 2 squares bittersweet baking chocolate 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1/3 cup semi sweet chocolate chips Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a food

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-56655276684293585972011-06-11T06:18:00.000-07:002011-06-17T14:45:07.818-07:00

Is there a better blend of flavors? Raspberry and dark chocolate... delightful! Raspberry and Dark Chocolate Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1/2 cup frozen raspberries 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*.  Put dry

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-16610846183970717172011-06-07T06:50:00.000-07:002011-06-07T06:50:00.319-07:00

This granola is really flavorful and packed with nutrients! The kids love it! Honey, Nut and Fruit Granola Ingredients: 8 cups old fashioned rolled oats 1 cup sliced almonds 1 cup pecan or walnut pieces 1 cup sunflower seeds 1 cup pumpkin seeds 1 cup coconut (shredded or flaked) 1 cup coconut oil 3/4 cup honey 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon sea salt --- after baked mix in ---1 cup

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-90898244869493095472011-06-04T06:24:00.000-07:002011-06-04T06:24:00.083-07:00

These smell incredible as they bake!! Everyone loved them while they were being eaten as well, so double score! Blackberry Vanilla Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup frozen blackberries Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-8649825378088193982011-05-31T13:40:00.000-07:002011-05-31T13:40:00.606-07:00

This is an awesome snack food! Lots of protein and a little bit of sweetness. I've left out the chocolate chips and let the kids eat as much as they want. They don't make me feel guilty at all! Grain Free [Gluten Free] Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients: 1 cup natural peanut butter 4 eggs 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1/4 cup coconut flour* Directions

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-34286238300642854862011-05-28T07:05:00.000-07:002011-05-28T07:05:00.122-07:00

These were just perfect! I have always loved raspberry scones and have been trying to achieve what I think a perfect raspberry scone was and I think I got it! You'll have to let me know what you think... The family loved them! Raspberry Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1/

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-15051522692064567502011-05-24T11:32:00.000-07:002011-05-25T07:00:53.933-07:00

Most of you know that I've been eating grain free now, since I learned that avoiding grains means avoiding migraines. *Happy Dance* These are excellent, especially since they are packed with protein! I feel good about starting the kids day with something so good for them. The texture is of course different than a wheat pancake, but they are good! Grain Free [Gluten Free] Pancakes Ingredients: 6

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-75590245076994399922011-05-21T08:59:00.000-07:002011-05-21T08:59:56.983-07:00

Blackberry Sage Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon dried sage 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1/2 cup frozen blackberries Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*.  Put dry ingredients in food processor, whir slightly to mix. Cut butter into chunks and put in the food

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-6225878123461204462011-05-14T17:57:00.000-07:002011-05-14T18:00:54.998-07:00

So, I have worked hard to be gluten-free and I am now relying on some "taste testers" for my scones... no one is complaining! Orange Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg zest from 1/2 an organic orange 2 tablespoons sugar (for sprinkling) Directions: The easiest way to do

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-22075835399395827222011-05-10T11:32:00.000-07:002011-05-21T12:45:49.557-07:00

I have had headaches since I can remember. I found out early on that I could not change my hairstyle unless I washed my hair first. If my hair dried down and I tried to put it in a pony tail, the roots of my hair would hurt and give me a headache. I actually have never been able to have a ponytail! I could not where halter type clothes of any kind, it strained my neck and I would get a headache.

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-6211952178997038632011-05-07T08:10:00.000-07:002011-05-09T14:33:16.724-07:00

These are delicious! I love berry scones! Triple Berry Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1 cup frozen triple berry mix (raspberry, marionberry and blueberry) divided Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*.  Put dry ingredients in food processor,

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-26753368002414054102011-04-30T09:26:00.000-07:002011-04-30T09:26:55.901-07:00

Oatmeal Cinnamon Scones with Maple Drizzle Ingredients: 2 cups regular rolled oats 1 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*.  Put dry ingredients in food processor, whir slightly to mix. Cut butter into chunks and put

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-32845702867482764312011-04-16T06:20:00.000-07:002011-04-16T06:20:00.394-07:00

This one is very traditional, I couldn't help but make some. I bought my currants at the health food store, they taste very similar to raisins, but are quite tiny. Currant Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1/3 cup dried currants 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg Directions: (Pictures below) The easiest way

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-4933845219530459312011-04-09T06:11:00.000-07:002011-04-09T08:11:01.674-07:00

I know, that's quite the title. But let me tell you- these are my most favorite yet! They were incredible! I wasn't sure how they would be, but figured- we're trying every other fruit, we should just do a pineapple.  And WOW! If you are having breakfast guests, I would recommend these to blow your guests away! Pineapple Scones of Awesomeness Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 3

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-7019833580524790542011-04-02T04:34:00.000-07:002011-04-02T04:34:00.095-07:00

1/2 cup dried strawberries Strawberry Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup dried strawberries 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1/2 teaspoon vanilla Directions: (Pictures below) The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*.  Put dry ingredients in food processor, whir slightly to mix. Cut

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-34919455451023930082011-03-26T04:35:00.000-07:002011-03-26T04:35:00.071-07:00

These are WONDERFUL! I was curious to try a savory seasoning with something sweet, but wasn't really sure how it would come out and was really impressed. I'd have to say this is one of my favorites now! 1/2 cup dried date pieces Date & Sage Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup dried date pieces 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-22284205072846855872011-03-22T06:32:00.000-07:002011-03-22T06:32:00.247-07:00

I have used this recipe for many years and everyone loves it. It's my basic pancake recipe, I change it slightly when I use different flours, so if you've followed my blog for a while, you will probably recognize it from my whole wheat pancake recipe. The Best Pancakes Ever Ingredients: 3 cups unbleached flour 1/4 cups sugar (optional- I leave this out) 2 tablespoons baking powder 1 teaspoon

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-55673603633729668182011-03-19T05:07:00.000-07:002011-03-19T05:07:00.074-07:00

Blueberry Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1 cup frozen blueberries Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*.  Put dry ingredients in food processor, whir slightly to mix. Cut butter into chunks and put in the food processor and whir until mixed and

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-21515005630584343652011-03-15T04:33:00.000-07:002011-03-15T04:33:00.665-07:00

In effort to make something "new" I did this. It was a definite hit... but pretty much anything that is called "cheeseburger" is a hit!! This does make 24 rolls, I use two 12 count muffin pans, if you only have 1 muffin pan, then 1/2 of the dough can be set aside and baked up as cinnamon rolls or plain dinner rolls. Stretch the pieces out in your hands to make as much of a circle as you can.

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-37474993371941528512011-03-12T05:45:00.000-08:002011-03-12T05:45:01.547-08:00

I love the look of this presentation. I am not a huge nut fan, so, I admit to just tasting these and not eating several. But it's ok- my boys scarfed ate them all. They were a favorite for them! Almond Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup sliced almonds 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 teaspoon almond

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-26850348342037256352011-03-11T07:04:00.000-08:002011-03-11T07:04:44.349-08:00

This is comfort food for me. My mom would make these when I was young and I think it was my absolute favorite breakfast! There isn't really a recipe, just a method. So here is what I do: Homemade Hashbrowns Scrub, wash, dry and grate several potatoes (approximately 1 per person). Heat several tablespoons of coconut oil in a frying pan (cast iron is nice, but anything else will work). Spread

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-48762214712211573772011-03-05T05:34:00.000-08:002011-03-05T05:34:01.277-08:00

I LOVED this scone. The lemon flavor was light and the scone was everything I look for in a scone- a perfect mix. Lemon Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1/2 teaspoon vanilla zest from 1/2 of an organic lemon Directions: The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*.

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-35905140798000732572011-03-01T16:14:00.000-08:002011-03-01T18:45:44.183-08:00

So, I know this is a little bland looking- but it's not bland tasting! I really like artichoke hearts. I get a huge jar from Costco. This was a hit with everyone in the family- the 2 littlest kids didn't eat the artichoke, but they ate the chicken and pasta. Chicken and Artichoke Penne Ingredients: 16 ounces pasta 4 chicken breasts, cubed 1 cup artichoke hearts 1/2 cup "juice" from the

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-51897939561484536522011-02-26T06:23:00.000-08:002011-02-26T06:23:00.217-08:00

Orange Cranberry Scones Add the cranberries, orange zest, and butter chunks Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup craisins (dried cranberries) 1/3 cup organic sugar Zest from 1 orange 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg Directions:The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*. Put dry ingredients in food processor, whir slightly

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-47997406942054805722011-02-19T05:40:00.000-08:002011-02-19T05:40:00.350-08:00

 I think the kids were the most excited about this one! The peanut butter dough was awesome- like eating a big peanut butter cookie. Definitely going to have to experiment with this one!! Peanut Butter & Jelly Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/4 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder Crumble the remaining dough overthe jelly 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 cup sour

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-3933067914119991302011-02-12T05:34:00.000-08:002011-02-12T05:34:00.166-08:00

This came out exactly like I had hoped!! I was wanting a scone similar to the Costco poppy seed muffins... and this does not dissapoint. Of course, it is a scone, so it's more dense than a muffin... but it is a perfect scone. Mmmmmmmm! Lemon Poppy Seed Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup organic sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-56725925684008468542011-02-08T06:16:00.000-08:002011-02-08T06:16:00.177-08:00

There is no limit to the possible varieties of muffins... but this are one of my favorites. Apple Cranberry Muffins Ingredients:2 c. unbleached flour1/2 c. soft wheat flour 2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. sea salt 1 c. milk1/4 c. honey 1/4 c. melted coconut oil 1 egg1 large apple, cored and diced 1/2 c. craisins Directions: Mix thoroughly and pour into greased or papered muffin tins. Bake 15 to 20

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-48652377861780916352011-02-05T05:50:00.000-08:002011-02-05T05:50:00.605-08:00

This one was delicious. At first I made it and thought it was too moist, but it tasted so good that way, I couldn't convince myself to mess with the recipe. Apricot Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup dried apricots 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg 1 teaspoon sugar - for sprinkling Directions:The

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-84697603558227346042011-02-01T06:09:00.000-08:002011-02-01T06:09:00.194-08:00

I love seafood. That would be a major perk to living on the west coast... or the east coast, I don't have experience as to what is available on the east coast, but I'm sure any fresh sea food would be wonderful. Instead we are land-locked and every now and then I'll splurge on some seafood and scampi ranks right up at the top of my list! Shrimp Scampi Ingredients:1 lb cooked/frozen diveined

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-9860456933405972572011-01-29T06:10:00.000-08:002011-01-29T06:21:48.205-08:00

These disappeared so fast! The kids loved them! Chocolate Chip Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg Directions:The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*. Put dry ingredients in food processor, whir slightly to mix. Add chocolate chips

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-12336048876778175012011-01-25T05:36:00.000-08:002011-01-25T11:58:44.896-08:00

I've been trying to serve fish once a week, it's been good. I didn't grow up eating much variety of fish, we had salmon, trout and sunfish. So it's been fun trying new things. This would be wonderful for a dinner party! I have it serving 8, but you can just mix the same amount of topping and put it over 4 filets, which would be delicious as well! Parmesan and Mushroom Tilapia 1/2 lb mushrooms,

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-62900224176103968232011-01-23T05:56:00.000-08:002011-01-23T13:52:39.242-08:00

So... today is National Pie Day. How great is that?! Pie is indeed wonderful. I'm glad we have a day to celebrate it!! As a kid my mom would make whatever we wanted for our birthday treat. I always wanted banana cream pie, but being able to decorate cakes made me pick a cake every time... even though I'm not very fond of cake. But you can't attempt frosting roses on pie... But when I did get

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-47438247531625623272011-01-22T06:18:00.000-08:002011-01-22T06:18:00.379-08:00

Cranberry Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/2 c. craisins (dried cranberries) 1/3 cup organic sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 egg Directions:The easiest way to do this is in a food processor*. Put dry ingredients and cranberries in food processor, whir slightly to mix. Cut butter into chunks and put in the food processor and

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-78672700734511222772011-01-18T06:27:00.000-08:002011-01-18T06:27:00.441-08:00

After doing our Refined Sweetener Free Challenge last year, I have been much more conscience of "sugar" being in things where it is not necessary. Taco seasoning is one of those. Taco Seasoning  Ingredients: 1/3 c. Chili Powder 2 tsp. onion powder 2 tsp. garlic powder 2 tsp. crushed red pepper 2 tsp. dried oregano 2 tsp. paprika 3 TB cumin 2 TB sea salt 1 TB ground black pepper Directions:

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-59188057229806744422011-01-15T05:38:00.000-08:002011-01-15T10:02:28.688-08:00

To start off our Saturday Scones... here is my basic recipe and the one that I will be changing slightly for all the other variations. This is really delicious as it is and if you like plain scones- this is an awesome recipe! One of our friends built me a window seat- for scones. They are just that good. Basic Scones Ingredients: 2 cup unbleached flour 1/2 cup butter 1/3 cup organic sugar 1

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-31792189219283036042011-01-13T20:40:00.000-08:002011-01-13T20:40:01.580-08:00

I've been a fan of Dawn Meehan's for several years. She has made me laugh so hard tears were streaming down my face! She is going through a very difficult time right now and I want to help spread the word- we can help her. Her website manager hijacked her blog and gave some excellent suggestions on how to help. You can also donate: Or support her work and help open doors for new writing

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-40084535337018239562011-01-13T07:26:00.000-08:002011-01-13T07:26:42.922-08:00

I sat down the other day thinking about scones. I like scones. I guess it started when I was a teenager and started collecting teacups and then continued when I got married and had my own home, where I would try all kinds of recipes. I made scones and had friends over for afternoon tea. I don't remember any of the scones being incredible, but I enjoyed them all. A few years ago when our daughter

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-53949957071413999772011-01-11T05:22:00.000-08:002011-01-11T11:32:18.752-08:00

I have been learning more about soaking grains making them easier to digest and have more nutritional value. So we can get more vitamins and minerals out of the grains! Soaked Wheat Pancakes 2 c. Milk 2 TB kefir, whey, lemon juice, or vinegar ---mix together than add: 2 c. soft wheat flour (if using lemon juice or vinegar, add another 1/2 c. flour) Mix well and allow to sit overnight in a warm

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-17401697809943697942011-01-07T06:46:00.000-08:002011-01-07T06:46:00.210-08:00

I love Muffins for breakfast with scrambled eggs and a glass of milk, or for lunch with fruit and cheese. They don't last too long at our house though if they are made in the middle of the day... too many people like to snack on them (ok, mainly Brian...) lol! Cinnamon Raisin Muffins 2 1/2 c. soft wheat flour 1/4 c. honey 2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 c. milk 1/4 c. melted

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-33209677552945239352010-12-31T05:49:00.000-08:002010-12-31T05:49:00.259-08:00

This is how I found the kids watching morning cartoons:Now, who could be mad about them raiding the food???

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-59728628105810884712010-12-24T06:11:00.000-08:002010-12-24T06:11:00.461-08:00

I love mushrooms. I just love them. Brian doesn't, but he supports my indulging. :-) These are the best stuffed mushrooms I have ever had. Absolutely wonderful! Stuffed Mushrooms 1 1/2 lbs mushrooms 1/3 c. butter, softened 2 TB flour 1/4 c. finely chopped onions 2 TB freshly chopped parsley 1 TB yellow mustard 3/4 tsp. salt 5 "shakes" cayenne pepper 1 c. heavy whipping cream (approximately)

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-7587080539335880482010-12-18T08:42:00.000-08:002010-12-18T09:45:02.056-08:00

I love family traditions!! Each year we have been getting together with some friends and decorating gingerbread houses. They are a bit of work to make, cut out, glue together, etc. But oh so worth it!!I use my gingerbread men recipe- because it's awesome. Gingerbread Men 1/4 c. boiling water1/2 c. butter1 tsp. Baking soda1 tsp. cinnamon1 tsp. ginger1/2 c. molasses3 c. flour1/2 tsp. salt1/4 tsp

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-53062981025788819652010-12-17T13:29:00.000-08:002010-12-17T13:41:04.094-08:00

Have you made these before? I remember seeing them when I was a kid, but we never made them. I decided to try it with Titus and Naomi- it was alot of fun!Clove Orange OrnamentsOrangesWhole ClovesRibbonStraight pinsI cut 2 lengths of ribbon, made an "X", placed the orange over it and wrapped the ribbon up around it and stuck a straight pin in to hold the ribbon in place on the bottom of the

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-23597702536159183672010-09-13T07:23:00.000-07:002010-09-13T07:58:37.693-07:00

One of my favorite things that I remember my mom making. I love it toasted with butter on it... and there is always one gooey spot, I would save that for last, because it was so yummy!I use my recipe for Basic White Bread:Basic White Bread2 c. warm milk (I often do 1 c. cold milk and 1 c. not quite boiling water)1 T. yeast1 T. honeyMix and let set for 10 min.Then add:2 tsp. salt2 T. olive oil,

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-82465267596737454522010-09-06T06:00:00.000-07:002010-09-06T06:00:08.339-07:00

A few months ago a friend of mine suggested we get together and make homemade deodorant, while she was looking for different recipes she also found one for lip balm. It was so easy and worked so well! We've used it now for a couple months and have loved it.We bought little tins from the health food store, but I had one chapstick tube that was almost empty, so I filled it up. It worked so well! So

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-25470193531473378612010-09-02T19:07:00.000-07:002010-09-02T19:49:49.119-07:00

I make 4 loaves, but have adjusted the recipe for just 2 loaves, since most people don't need 4 loaves at a time. I am not one to want to feed the kids all white bread, so don't make it often. But I am out of wheat and need to order it, school has started and homemade bread is cheaper and healthier- even if it's white, I make it with honey, avoiding processed sweeteners, preservatives and

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-11621029562857992632010-08-08T13:59:00.000-07:002010-08-08T14:25:36.790-07:00

My kids are eating more. I knew it would come, but they ate alot before, so it still surprised me just how much food we would go through. Brian is working a really physically demanding job now and he's eating more too... and on top of it all, I've been working at getting healthier foods into us. That seems to equal more $$. We didn't get any venison last year, so thankfully people have blest us

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-66597632364429070022010-07-30T08:16:00.000-07:002010-07-30T08:24:14.257-07:00

Like many of my favorite recipes they don't happen on purpose... I ran out of eggs and had to make a cake, so I had some extra pumpkin and decided to use it instead of eggs. It was really tasty! I figured it would be, as I love the pumpkin cookies. I (ashamedly) used a store bought can of chocolate frosting. I think it would be great with a cream cheese frosting too!Pumpkin Cake2 1/3 c. flour1 TB

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-25751339801193461762010-07-12T13:14:00.001-07:002010-07-12T13:29:36.730-07:00

This is a first for me. It was alot of fun! Everyone in the family cranked on the ice cream maker for a while... and we have a hand crank one, which I think adds to the deliciousness of the ice cream! I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was, as far as ingredients, etc.I used a basic recipe that I found online and I would credit them with it, but I can't find it now.I doubled the recipe to

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-22679559612507004792010-06-29T11:55:00.000-07:002010-06-29T16:30:07.209-07:00

We had this cake for Naomi's birthday this year, her little friend is allergic to eggs and milk, just so you know, I didn't frost her little friend's cupcake (since obviously the frosting isn't dairy free!). I also lowered the sugar in this cake, and was really happy with how it tasted.Egg Free & Dairy Free Vanilla Cake2 1/3 c. flour1 TB baking powder3/4 tsp salt1 c. sugar1/2 c. oil1/2 c.

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-14930328495139485172010-06-16T06:59:00.000-07:002010-06-16T07:13:00.254-07:00

The Local Cook is hosting "Cookin' Across America" contest to show different foods from different states. If you have a blog you can enter it this week and next week the voting starts.I entered my Mom's Whole Wheat Bread recipe, since it is made using grain from our State.

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-3240755491727886792010-06-09T08:38:00.000-07:002010-06-09T08:40:27.474-07:00

Just FYI, I am trying to change my blog around to a 3 column blog and I did something wrong, so I will probably be messing with it over then next few days, thanks for your patience!

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-12065012717226268362010-06-09T05:48:00.000-07:002010-06-09T06:43:21.056-07:00

I remember growing up my mom was not a fan of the ingredients in deodorants/antiperspirants. I didn't put much thought into it, I didn't really need deodorant. About 10 years ago I moved to a different climate and found that I didn't smell pretty. So I started using more deodorant. I never did use an antiperspirant, I really believe that God created sweat glands for a reason! Most antiperspirants

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-62279701415671575302010-06-02T06:08:00.001-07:002010-06-02T07:59:32.650-07:00

Since there is so many foods out there that have added sweeteners, I figured I would give you an example of some of the things we ate while trying so hard to avoid the processed sweeteners.I know we had more variety for dinner than I have listed here, but for the life of me, I can't think what! We did eat alot of chili and rice dishes. They were easier.Breakfasts:Scrambled eggs (typically we have

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-84014683588091318652010-05-28T07:21:00.000-07:002010-05-28T08:10:20.835-07:00

Last month our family did a "Refined Sweeteners Free Month" and it was just plan alot of work. I think it was great though. I learned alot more than I thought I would. I don't know that I want to do it again, I had to make pretty much everything from scratch and you know, that's alot of work! I make alot of things from scratch anyway, but everything had to be made from scratch. There was no last

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-14721259194956418432010-05-24T12:13:00.000-07:002010-05-24T14:31:32.371-07:00

I wasn't quite sure what to think of a sugar free month, but when Rachel said natural sugars were still allowed, I felt better. :) I did cheat a little though, I have lunch with a friend weekly at Subway and while I eliminated pop in favor of tea and gave up on having cookies, I was unable to avoid the sugars in the bread. The biggest thing that I think it pointed out to me as the month

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-26479631736249416642010-05-14T14:47:00.000-07:002010-05-14T14:57:38.757-07:00

Rules: Absolutely no refined sweeteners.Why did you decide to do this challenge?Because it sounded fun.What did you enjoy most about the month?The packed lunches.What was the most surprising thing about this month?How many meats have sugar in them- like jerky!How did people react if you told them?They said they wouldn't be able to do it.What was the thing you disliked the most?That I couldn't eat

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-73135057069006853062010-05-07T09:42:00.000-07:002010-05-07T14:20:01.219-07:00

Rules: Absolutely no refined sweeteners.Why did you decide to do this challenge?I decided to do this challenge because I wanted to raise my math scores.What did you enjoy most about the month?I enjoyed having more fruit sauce on my pancakes.What was the most surprising thing about this month?My math grade went up two letter grades.How did people react if you told them?"Aren't you malnourished?"

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-6407266543238964202010-04-30T15:10:00.000-07:002010-04-30T16:25:50.424-07:00

Rules: Absolutely no refined sweeteners.Why did you decide to do this challenge?Because I thought it would be interesting.What did you enjoy most about the month?We tried new food.What was the most surprising thing about this month?How much things had processed sweeteners in them.How did people react if you told them?they didn't, they already knew are family did stuff like this. What was the

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-12181050777120435242010-04-26T20:47:00.000-07:002010-04-26T21:06:53.165-07:00

First of all. Let me just say that I am tired of cooking. Everything. 3 meals each day (or making bread for the following day's lunch) and I am tired of it.Pepperoni: DextroseFrench Fries: DextroseBacon: Some form of sugar (though not all brands, they're are a couple that don't. I heard Albertson's brand doesn't have any sugar)Hot dogs: Um, yeah.We will be quitting a day early- April 29th will be

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-41254841051185406442010-04-22T10:25:00.000-07:002010-06-01T18:23:10.620-07:00

(Visit our Etsy Store here)I've been on a creative kick lately... maybe since I'm staying away from refined sweeteners I'm so oragnized that I have time to be creative. LOL Or, it could be that my husband has been out of work so I have more time to play around while he chases after Titus (who gets into everything!) I don't know. But I've been having fun! (BTW, he has found a job and I may fill my

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-74543903397238852392010-04-20T09:21:00.000-07:002010-04-20T09:42:24.507-07:00

So, Saturday Luke worked for a guy at church, doing outside stuff. He sent Luke home with a Jennie-O turkey. I was just going to make it for Sunday dinner and Brian started reading on it... they put a solution in it to make it "juicier" and the solution has sugar in it!! So... we couldn't eat the turkey. How crazy is that?!And it's not only flour tortillas that have sugar- corn tortillas have

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-62553818201955368952010-04-11T19:59:00.000-07:002010-04-11T20:16:57.777-07:00

That's right- Sundays are difficult. Nursery: Graham crackers. Kids Sunday School: Oreos or "fruit" snacks. Birthday surprise for Naomi: Airheads. Leaving church: Pastor's candy bucket (UGG!) Sunday Lunch: Invited to dinner. BBQ... um, hamburger buns have sugar in them. Ok, Spaghetti then... um, most spaghetti sauces have sugar in them. Meatballs. *Ding ding ding ding* we have a winner! Ok... but

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-77070766248416847932010-04-04T19:09:00.000-07:002010-04-04T20:06:46.964-07:00

This was a little harder. Not harder than I anticipated, I think it was a little easier than I anticipated, but still, hard to say no. We have a breakfast at church on Easter, so I signed up to bring a bread/pastry. Now, I can make some killer cinnamon rolls and I probably would have if we hadn't been doing this challenge.I made a coffee cake with whole wheat and honey instead of sugar and put

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-63695805685926396152010-04-02T07:48:00.000-07:002010-04-02T07:48:00.915-07:00

Each year we dye our Easter eggs red- and only red. I explain why in my Easter post in 2008. I mentioned on Facebook that I was going to dye my eggs red and my friend Christina mentioned onion peels. I was curious and I found this site.One problem- (this was last year) I only had 1 day till Easter and it called for the dry skins of 15 onions. I had 2 little onions. So, I peeled as much dry "paper

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-32238419483435851152010-04-01T19:04:00.000-07:002010-04-01T19:35:20.206-07:00

Are you with me?So far, so good... except we're spending a couple days up at my parent's. My mom does cook fairly healthy, but they have 5 kids still at home, and with our 5 and then my brother and his 4 will be there- so, with 20 people (14 being hungry kids), it's not always easy to make everything from scratch and sandwiches with store bought bread is much easier.Next hard day: Easter Sunday

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-63873815858194535812010-03-29T19:00:00.000-07:002010-03-29T19:10:57.378-07:00

Typically when I make meatloaf I do baked potatoes as well, so everything is baked in the oven and it's not much work to get dinner on the table. This is what I do if we have leftovers:Meatloaf SkilletCoconut oilBaked potatoesMeatloaf(it all varies on how much is left over)Heat 3-6 TB coconut oil in a frying pan/skillet on Med-high heat, chop or dice the baked potato and add it to the oil. Let

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-57852921785628908212010-03-22T18:19:00.001-07:002010-03-22T19:31:10.582-07:00

For the month of April we have decided to do a sugar-free challenge.Ok... now, this is probably a different type of challenge than you are thinking. This is not in favor of artifical sweeteners. This is an anti- refined sweetener challenge. After reading Real Food: What to Eat and Why I can't look at food the same again. She talks about how Americans have so much sugar in our diets and the

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-19970131050067850402010-03-04T13:48:00.000-08:002010-03-04T14:11:21.062-08:00

I have been learning so much about healthy eating lately and so I changed my roll recipe. Healthier than it was before, but still not as healthy as it could be... a little at a time though. :-)These take about 1 to 1 1/2 hours total, from the start to taking the last batch out of the oven. It's really a fast roll recipe. You don't have to wait for them to rise. The smaller you make your rolls the

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-68127281983576868792010-02-22T19:17:00.000-08:002010-02-22T19:23:21.583-08:00

I've been de-cluttering/organizing/rearranging quite a bit lately. I needed help with my spices and I was reading my friend Hanna's blog and saw what she did (Hanna's Spice Rack)... so I stole her idea. :-)

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-38087229140584951892010-01-20T08:04:00.000-08:002010-01-20T08:31:04.844-08:00

My friend Cara gave me Real Food for Mother and Baby: The Fertility Diet, Eating for Two, and Baby's First Foods to read. I have thoroughly enjoyed it. This is the book I searched for when I was pregnant with Naomi. I so wanted to know about nutrietion during pregnancy- I thought there had to be something! But the best book I could find was LET'S HAVE HEALTHY CHILDREN by Adelle Davis, REVISED AND

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-6254690817043880662010-01-04T07:29:00.000-08:002010-01-04T07:37:17.816-08:00

Monday: Fancy Chicken BakeTuesday: TacosWednesday: Meatloaf, fruit and veggiesThursday: Lentil ChiliFriday: Salsa BurritosSaturday: Lasagna (with homemade noodles)Sunday: Turkey Dinner (no, I haven't had enough turkey and yes, I need the freezer space!)For more visit Menu Plan Monday

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-13958447792117202232009-12-28T14:38:00.001-08:002009-12-28T14:47:42.490-08:00

Sorry it's after Christmas... but for Christmas I got a new camera, as my other one went out and it just wouldn't do justice to the Hobbit Hole to do pictures when the camera I was borrowing in between the going out of one and the buying of a new one. I used the same gingerbread recipe I have used before. We cut out the front and doors of gingerbread, cut some "logs" for the sides and used

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-36726336202576456622009-12-22T08:32:00.000-08:002009-12-22T08:48:26.530-08:00

It's that time of year again! I actually really enjoy this, I enjoy how pretty the treats look in the gift boxes, and I hope they enjoy getting them as much as I would. My love affair with food. *Grin*Here's what I put in there this year:"Cinnabon" Cinnamon RollsGingerbread Men (and fish, holly leaves, presents and Christmas trees)Crabapple JellyApricot JamZucchini BreadArtisan BreadPeppermint

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-3784933146341038162009-12-14T19:01:00.000-08:002009-12-14T19:20:32.953-08:00

Brian is a Scout Master for our church scout troop. One of the things they are supposed to learn as scouts is to eat healthy, I've done different snacks for them, carrots, apples, cookies, muffins, cinnamon rolls... Today, I wanted to make something healthier than I have the last few times...Oatmeal Apple Raisin Cookies3/4 c. coconut oil1 c. sugar2 T. molasses1 egg1/4 c. milk1 tsp. vanilla1 c.

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-42522419297726995912009-12-11T09:02:00.000-08:002009-12-11T09:04:10.476-08:00

*Reposting from 2007*It's that time of year again- I need to make this! My mom's side of the family is Swedish and one year my mom made this bread for Thanks-giving or Christmas and we all loved it- she has made it each holiday ever since and to me, it's just not a holiday without it! Serve with butter to spread on it.Swedish Raisin Rye1/4 c molasses 1 T. yeast3 c water1 c wheat flourmix and let

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-8959929897240874832009-12-09T06:52:00.000-08:002009-12-09T06:55:30.843-08:00

Mom's Whole Wheat Bread

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-12602831725682974332009-12-04T06:44:00.000-08:002009-12-04T06:44:00.697-08:00

The pharmaceutical industry toasts to your ill healthNovember 24, 2009By Ed SteeneYour good health translates into zero profit for the pharmaceutical industry. General well-being of the public and cures for disease would mean the collapse of the pharmaceutical industry since they must have illness to have demand for their drugs, in order to exist. This is the truth that drives political

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-52262714564383148632009-12-02T08:55:00.000-08:002009-12-02T10:52:35.378-08:00

Poor Titus, since he started eating solids when he was about 7 months old, has been wearing Naomi's bibs. Look how hard that has been on him- a boy, wearing purple. Sad.So I decided to make some more... only my sewing machines are all broken down. You know, it's just not our year for things running! Brian's car broke down, all 3 of my sewing machines, the camera went out (probably not much

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-30246475466921791002009-12-01T19:43:00.001-08:002009-12-01T19:49:39.022-08:00

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-30581550761632878572009-11-30T08:10:00.000-08:002009-11-30T08:47:38.377-08:00

***Don't forget to add your own gift ideas- leave a comment, or link to your own blogpost!***I love food gifts. I love food.When I love someone, I want to give them food. I feel loved when I get food.And a big plus: it doesn't clutter up the house.(I've been working on keeping things clean/decluttered and have been blogging about it here.)My friend Cara posted on her blog the other day, about

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-21144874190639970492009-11-30T08:06:00.001-08:002009-11-30T08:13:06.872-08:00

Monday: TortellniTuesday: Sausage SkilletWednesday: Chicken Mac & CheeseThursday: Pizza RollsFriday: Lentil ChiliSaturday: PizzaSunday: Whatchagot :-)For more visit I'm An Organizing Junkie.

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-82072961114555051392009-11-29T07:15:00.000-08:002010-08-08T13:57:07.370-07:00

I've been hearing alot about the health benefits of oils and fats and I've been hearing some wonderful things about coconut oil. Now, I hate coconut. I can't stand the smell, the taste, the texture- nothing. But the rest of the family likes it and Brian loves coconut.I typically use Extra Virgin Olive Oil for all my cooking. But then I started hearing things like this:The higher the temperature

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-39333043721923017702009-11-28T07:12:00.000-08:002009-11-28T08:13:23.312-08:00

This last year my friend Kristy and I had a Pampered Chef party. (If you need a consultant, let me know, I know a great one!)The special for the month was a spring form pan for a really amazing price. I've wanted one, but hadn't needed one... I justified it because it was such a good deal. So I finally pulled it out to try it.I had to double my regular recipe that I put in a pie pan in order to

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-47287046058970208362009-11-27T15:12:00.000-08:002009-12-03T13:28:37.406-08:00

Cara wrote about a coupon code for Tropical Traditions. I would encourage you to check out their Black Friday deal!! I'm going to be ordering some oil myself. She gets credit if you use her referral code, so I would encourage you to do that. :-)The $10 off coupon code is good till midnight Nov. 29th, so check it out!

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-83237749771669692172009-11-27T07:16:00.000-08:002009-11-27T07:16:00.094-08:00

My friend Kristy got a new cookbook, she's been coming over about once a month and we've made a few dishes to put in the freezer. I really enjoyed going through the book, the recipes are easy but don't have much with cream soups. I was most impressed with the pizza crust we made.We've made their Chicken Alfredo Pizza (that was delicious!!) and then we made more crust and put our regular toppings

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-70268256117050080292009-11-25T07:13:00.000-08:002009-11-25T07:17:52.997-08:00

A continuation from last week:For more visit Wordless Wednesday.

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-44855069465414718122009-11-25T06:43:00.000-08:002009-11-25T06:43:00.544-08:00

I don't know where I saw this done years ago- but I've been doing it this way ever since.Cut through to the seed and follow the line all the way around the avocado.Give a slight twist and pull the halves apart.Take a spoon and follow the meat going around the whole thing as close to the skin as possible.Tah Dah!

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-24698120050105609822009-11-24T08:57:00.000-08:002009-11-24T08:57:00.669-08:00

We eat mostly venison for our red meat. It's really healthy, organic (wild) and free range. :-) Some people do not like the gamey taste of wild game. I rarely notice it, if you treat your meat properly it's not overwhelming and most of the time one doesn't notice.We hang our deer before processing it. Which allows it to be more tender. When I take it out of the freezer, the day before I need to

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-57154291836435891332009-11-23T07:39:00.000-08:002009-11-23T07:39:00.136-08:00

With the turkey I made last Sunday, I made a soup stock and thought I would let you know what I did this time.Turkey Soup3/4 of a 10-12 qt. pot of stock (directions here under my other turkey soup post, just scroll down)1 onion chopped3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced1/2 of a celery bunch, chopped5 carrots, diced3 cups cooked, chopped turkey meat16 -32 oz. egg noodles (depending on how much or

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2715016908514208262.post-66971987200229759242009-11-20T08:33:00.000-08:002009-11-20T08:33:00.300-08:00

Broccoli and Chicken Alfredo16 oz penne (or whatever pasta you would prefer)2 c. broccoli (blanched)2 chicken breasts2 cloves of garlic1 1/2 c. heavy whipping cream1 c. grated parmesan cheeseFry chicken breasts in oil, (I chop them as they cook with the flat spoon) When almost done put in 2 cloves of garlic, pressed.Cut broccoli into bite sized pieces.Cook pasta according to package

Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11978979903448366922noreply@blogger.com0