Shortcut is right! Such a simple, yummy recipe.
Shortcut Pumpkin Bread
Prep/Cook Time: 55 minutes
1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare it from package directions)
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup mashed bananas
1 tsp. cinnamon
Frosting:
4 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
Prepare yellow cake mix according to package directions, omitting water. Stir in pumpkin puree, bananas and cinnamon. Pour into greased 9" loaf pan; bake at 375 degrees for 50 minutes.
In a mixer bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Stir in vanilla and slowly add powdered sugar. Frost cooled bread; chill.
Yields: 16 slices
Printable Version
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Oreo Cheesecake Cookies
I made these for a cookie exchange, so good!
Oreo Cheesecake Cookies (courtesy of Tasty Kitchen)
Prep/Cook Time: 22 minutes
½ cups Unsalted Butter, Softened
3 ounces, weight Cream Cheese, softened
1 cup Sugar
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1 cup All-purpose Flour
½ cups Mini Chocolate Chips
1 cup Oreo Cookie Crumbs
½ cups White Chocolate Chips, Melted (optional)
Oreo Cheesecake Cookies (courtesy of Tasty Kitchen)
Prep/Cook Time: 22 minutes
½ cups Unsalted Butter, Softened
3 ounces, weight Cream Cheese, softened
1 cup Sugar
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1 cup All-purpose Flour
½ cups Mini Chocolate Chips
1 cup Oreo Cookie Crumbs
½ cups White Chocolate Chips, Melted (optional)
Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese using a hand mixer until they are well combined.
Add the sugar and vanilla and mix until ingredients are well combined. Add the flour and mix on low until the flour is incorporated. Stir in the mini chocolate chips.
Scoop the dough into 1″ balls (I used a scoop to insure all measured the same) and roll in Oreo cookie crumbs so cookie is covered. Place covered cookie balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the tops are slightly puffed.
Cool on the pan for two minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool. Once cool, drizzle cookies with melted white chocolate. Enjoy!
Yields: 20 cookies
Monday, December 27, 2010
Chicken-Bacon Stuffed Pizza Rolls
These were so yummy! Such a neat idea!
Chicken-Bacon Stuffed Pizza Rolls (courtesy of Our Best Bites)
1 roll refrigerated pizza dough* (or make your own)
1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing mix
2 T grated Parmesan cheese
1 T olive oil or melted butter
sharp cheddar cheese (I used 75% sharp cheddar and 25% mozzarella)
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
about 1 C shredded, cooked chicken.
3/4 C mayo
3/4 C milk
First take 1 teaspoon of your ranch dressing mix and combine it with 1 1/2 T parmesan cheese. Set aside. Combine the remaining ranch mix with 3/4 C mayo and 3/4 C milk and place in the fridge to chill.
Preheat oven to heat specified on pizza dough package. Usually it's 400-425 degrees.
Unroll your pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat or roll the dough so it's about 12" by 8". You're going to want to cut it into 24 squares, so just eyeball it if you need to. Use a pizza cutter to slice the dough into 24 squares.
Place cheese and desired toppings on each square.
When all of your dough squares have cheese and toppings on them, carefully lift up each square and wrap the dough around the toppings.
I grab the four corners first and then squeeze the seams shut. Then place them seam side down in a lightly sprayed pie pan (or similar sized dish). Brush with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with the parmesan-ranch mixture.
Place your rolls in the oven. I've noticed baking time really depends on the type of dough I'm using. Whether it's different brands from the store, or homemade dough, they all take different amounts of time. Set your timer for 10 minutes and check on them after that. They may take up to 15 or 20 to be done. Take them out when they're lightly golden on top.
Serve them warm with a side of freshly made ranch dressing for dipping.
Note:
These can also be baked individually in a mini-muffin tin. This might work better for serving depending on the situation. You're making 24 rolls, so it fills up the pan perfectly. They cook quicker this way than in a pie pan so keep an eye on them. Mine only took about 8 minutes whereas the ones in the pan took about 13-15.
Printable Version
Chicken-Bacon Stuffed Pizza Rolls (courtesy of Our Best Bites)
1 roll refrigerated pizza dough* (or make your own)
1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing mix
2 T grated Parmesan cheese
1 T olive oil or melted butter
sharp cheddar cheese (I used 75% sharp cheddar and 25% mozzarella)
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
about 1 C shredded, cooked chicken.
3/4 C mayo
3/4 C milk
First take 1 teaspoon of your ranch dressing mix and combine it with 1 1/2 T parmesan cheese. Set aside. Combine the remaining ranch mix with 3/4 C mayo and 3/4 C milk and place in the fridge to chill.
Preheat oven to heat specified on pizza dough package. Usually it's 400-425 degrees.
Unroll your pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat or roll the dough so it's about 12" by 8". You're going to want to cut it into 24 squares, so just eyeball it if you need to. Use a pizza cutter to slice the dough into 24 squares.
Place cheese and desired toppings on each square.
When all of your dough squares have cheese and toppings on them, carefully lift up each square and wrap the dough around the toppings.
I grab the four corners first and then squeeze the seams shut. Then place them seam side down in a lightly sprayed pie pan (or similar sized dish). Brush with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with the parmesan-ranch mixture.
Place your rolls in the oven. I've noticed baking time really depends on the type of dough I'm using. Whether it's different brands from the store, or homemade dough, they all take different amounts of time. Set your timer for 10 minutes and check on them after that. They may take up to 15 or 20 to be done. Take them out when they're lightly golden on top.
Serve them warm with a side of freshly made ranch dressing for dipping.
Note:
These can also be baked individually in a mini-muffin tin. This might work better for serving depending on the situation. You're making 24 rolls, so it fills up the pan perfectly. They cook quicker this way than in a pie pan so keep an eye on them. Mine only took about 8 minutes whereas the ones in the pan took about 13-15.
Printable Version
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Truffle Hot Chocolate Balls
I made some of these for Christmas gifts and it took all my willpower not to eat the mixture by itself!!
Truffle Hot Chocolate Balls (courtesy of My Kitchen Cafe)
12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips (about 2 cups)
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1/8 teaspoon salt
Printable Version
Truffle Hot Chocolate Balls (courtesy of My Kitchen Cafe)
12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips (about 2 cups)
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1/8 teaspoon salt
In a medium bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Microwave for one minute intervals, stirring often, until the mixture is combined and very smooth and silky. When you first start stirring, after the first minute or so, you'll wonder if this mixture will ever come together. It will look grainy and messy but after it heats thoroughly and is whisked to combine, it will magically become beautifully smooth. Be careful not to overheat as the chocolate can seize. The trick is to stir often since the mixture will blend together even when it looks like the chocolate chips haven't melted completely.
Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator until the ganache mixture is firm and scoopable, about 2-3 hours. Scoop out about 1/4-inch spoonfuls of the mixture and place them on a wax paper-lined baking sheet. My cookie scoop is about 1 1/2 tablespoons. I mounded two of the heaping cookie scoops full of ganache on top of each other to form one ball. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and let the mounds harden slightly, about 15-20 minutes. Roll the chilled mounds into balls and place on squares of plastic wrap (about 4 inches by 4 inches). Pull the sides of the plastic wrap over to cover the ball and place the balls in the freezer until ready to use.
To make the hot chocolate: pour 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups (depending on how rich you like your cocoa) milk into a microwave-safe mug. Carefully drop one unwrapped truffle hot chocolate ball in the milk. Microwave for about 2 minutes. Stir well until the chocolate is combined with the milk. Serve warm!
Yields: about 9-10 hot chocolate ballsPrintable Version
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Pecan Cheesecake Pie
I have never eaten regular pecan pie before, but this tasted so good it makes me want to try it!
Pecan Cheesecake Pie
1/2 (15 oz.) package refrigerated pie crusts (I used Pilsbury)
1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened
4 large eggs, divided
3/4 cup sugar, divided
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/4 cups chopped pecans
1 cup light corn syrup (I used Karo)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fit pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate according to package directions. Fold edges under and crimp.
Beat cream cheese, 1 egg, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla and salt with electric mixer until smooth. Pour cream cheese mixture into pie crust; sprinkle with pecans.
Whisk together corn syrup and remaining 3 eggs, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 tsp. vanilla; pour mixture over pecans. Place pie on a baking sheet.
Bake on lowest oven rack for 50-55 minutes or until pie is set. Cool completely on a wire rack (about 1 hour). Serve immediately, or over and chill up to 2 days.
Yields: 8-12 servings (depending on how big you slice it!)
Printable Version
Pecan Cheesecake Pie
1/2 (15 oz.) package refrigerated pie crusts (I used Pilsbury)
1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened
4 large eggs, divided
3/4 cup sugar, divided
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/4 cups chopped pecans
1 cup light corn syrup (I used Karo)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fit pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate according to package directions. Fold edges under and crimp.
Beat cream cheese, 1 egg, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla and salt with electric mixer until smooth. Pour cream cheese mixture into pie crust; sprinkle with pecans.
Whisk together corn syrup and remaining 3 eggs, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 tsp. vanilla; pour mixture over pecans. Place pie on a baking sheet.
Bake on lowest oven rack for 50-55 minutes or until pie is set. Cool completely on a wire rack (about 1 hour). Serve immediately, or over and chill up to 2 days.
Yields: 8-12 servings (depending on how big you slice it!)
Printable Version
Monday, December 20, 2010
Peanut Butter Fudge
This is super simple and so good! If you love peanut butter, you'll love this recipe!
Peanut Butter Fudge (courtesy of Tasty Kitchen)
Prep/Cook Time: 15 minutes
3-½ cups Powdered Sugar
6 Tablespoons Butter
2 cups Brown Sugar
½ cups Milk
¾ cups Peanut Butter
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Peanut Butter Fudge (courtesy of Tasty Kitchen)
Prep/Cook Time: 15 minutes
3-½ cups Powdered Sugar
6 Tablespoons Butter
2 cups Brown Sugar
½ cups Milk
¾ cups Peanut Butter
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Pour the powdered sugar into the bowl of your stand mixer (or into any other big bowl). Just keep it there for a while, it will patiently wait.
Melt butter in saucepan over medium-high heat.
Add in brown sugar and milk; stir to combine.
Bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes. (Stirring for, yes, the whole 2 minutes.)
Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter & vanilla extract.
Now! Time to re-visit the lonely powdered sugar! Pour the hot, peanut butter mixture over the powdered sugar.
Beat until smooth. (It won’t take long, especially if you have a stand mixer.)
Pour into an 8×8″ dish and stick it in the fridge for about 5 minutes to firm it up.
Try to resist the urge to eat the scraps left in the bowl and on the beater—it’s still quite hot! Let it cool, then eat the scraps.
Once the fudge is all nice and firm, it’s ready to eat! Just cut it up into chunks. I actually kinda like it cold, straight from the fridge, but you can let it sit on the counter for a few minutes if you like.
Yields: 36 pieces
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Damon is 5 months old!
Yes, my little guy is 5 months old today! I can't believe how fast the time has gone by.
He is such a wonderful baby, and even though he hasn't been as easy as Peyton was, he's still awesome. He sleeps through the night for the most part now, but will sometimes surprise me with a wake-up call still. He takes awesome naps usually and is happy unless he wants or needs something! He definitely loves to be held though, of course.
He can roll from his tummy to his back, and his back to his tummy and can even sit up by himself for very short periods of time. He drools a lot, and is still an excellent nurser. Peyton can always make him laugh and he LOVES to play with paper. He gets so excited he actually starts to shake!
Peyton: 3 years Damon: 5 months
And I just had to include these videos because they just make my heart happy.
He is such a wonderful baby, and even though he hasn't been as easy as Peyton was, he's still awesome. He sleeps through the night for the most part now, but will sometimes surprise me with a wake-up call still. He takes awesome naps usually and is happy unless he wants or needs something! He definitely loves to be held though, of course. 
He can roll from his tummy to his back, and his back to his tummy and can even sit up by himself for very short periods of time. He drools a lot, and is still an excellent nurser. Peyton can always make him laugh and he LOVES to play with paper. He gets so excited he actually starts to shake!
Peyton: 3 years Damon: 5 months 
And I just had to include these videos because they just make my heart happy.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Honey Butter
Nothing is better than a hot roll with honey butter on it!
Honey Butter
Prep/Total Time: 2 minutes
1 cup (2 sticks) real butter
2/3 cup honey
3/4 cup powdered sugar
Leave your butter out on the counter for about 20 minutes before mixing. If you let it get too soft, you will have a gooey mess. Mix together all ingredients with a hand mixer for about 30 seconds. Serve at room temperature. Store in the fridge.
Printable Version
Honey Butter
Prep/Total Time: 2 minutes
1 cup (2 sticks) real butter
2/3 cup honey
3/4 cup powdered sugar
Leave your butter out on the counter for about 20 minutes before mixing. If you let it get too soft, you will have a gooey mess. Mix together all ingredients with a hand mixer for about 30 seconds. Serve at room temperature. Store in the fridge.
Printable Version
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Mint-Chocolate Chip Cookies
These are A-MAZ-ING! Such a perfect holiday combo!
Mint-Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep: 20 minutes
Bake: 9 minutes/batch
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
2 cups mint chocolate chips OR semi-sweet chips (I used Andes Baking Chips)
Glaze:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
4-6 drops mint extract (depends on how minty you want them)
2 tbsp. + 1 tsp. water
Food coloring (optional)
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt into a medium-sized bowl. Beat butter in large bowl until creamy. Add brown and granulated sugars; beat until fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. On low speed, beat in flour mixture. Gently fold in chips.
Drop by heaping teaspoonfuls about 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 9-11 minutes (mine only took 9, be careful not to overcook and burn. Hard to tell sometimes when you are cooking chocolate dough!) Cool on sheet for 2 minutes. Transfer to wax paper or cooling rack to cool completely.
Glaze: Whisk all ingredients together until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies. Let stand until glaze is set.
Printable Version
Mint-Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep: 20 minutes
Bake: 9 minutes/batch
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
2 cups mint chocolate chips OR semi-sweet chips (I used Andes Baking Chips)
Glaze:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
4-6 drops mint extract (depends on how minty you want them)
2 tbsp. + 1 tsp. water
Food coloring (optional)
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt into a medium-sized bowl. Beat butter in large bowl until creamy. Add brown and granulated sugars; beat until fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. On low speed, beat in flour mixture. Gently fold in chips.
Drop by heaping teaspoonfuls about 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 9-11 minutes (mine only took 9, be careful not to overcook and burn. Hard to tell sometimes when you are cooking chocolate dough!) Cool on sheet for 2 minutes. Transfer to wax paper or cooling rack to cool completely.
Glaze: Whisk all ingredients together until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies. Let stand until glaze is set.
Printable Version
Books
Books I have read, but haven't posted a review about because I'm a) lazy and b) don't have time/don't feel like it. Also, I do realize these are basically all teen fiction...and I'm ok with that.
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Witch and Wizard by James Patterson
Worst Case by James Patterson
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
Hush Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Fallen by Lauren Kate
The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
House of Night Series by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast (a whole lot of hours I wish I could get back)
Evermore by Alyson Noel
Wake, Fade and Gone by Lisa McMann
Matched by Ally Condie
The Burning Within by Ranelle Wallace
These are all the ones I remember. I sure hope I'm not forgetting any...
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Witch and Wizard by James Patterson
Worst Case by James Patterson
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
Hush Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Fallen by Lauren Kate
The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
House of Night Series by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast (a whole lot of hours I wish I could get back)
Evermore by Alyson Noel
Wake, Fade and Gone by Lisa McMann
Matched by Ally Condie
The Burning Within by Ranelle Wallace
These are all the ones I remember. I sure hope I'm not forgetting any...
Monday, December 13, 2010
New Blog!
I know what you must be thinking. 'She hardly even updates this one, how on earth will she keep up 2?' Well, my new blog is all recipes. I know I've been sharing them on here, but since I have made this blog private, I thought I would create a new blog to share just recipes! I am no great chef, but I love to try new things and I figure I might as well share what works for me!! So head on over to Recipes from a Horvath Housewife (so original, I know!) and check it out!
Peachy Chicken
This recipe was contributed by my lovely sister, Lindsey!
Peachy Chicken
Prep/Total Time: 25 minutes
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 tbsp. butter
1 can sliced peaches, undrained
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1 envelope onion soup mix
Hot cooked rice (optional)
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil and butter. Brown chicken; remove and keep warm. Add peaches with juice, brown sugar, orange juice and soup mix to skillet; stir until combined. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Reduce heat; return chicken to pan. Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Serve over rice if desired.
Yield: 4 servings
Printable Version
Peachy Chicken
Prep/Total Time: 25 minutes
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 tbsp. butter
1 can sliced peaches, undrained
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1 envelope onion soup mix
Hot cooked rice (optional)
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil and butter. Brown chicken; remove and keep warm. Add peaches with juice, brown sugar, orange juice and soup mix to skillet; stir until combined. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Reduce heat; return chicken to pan. Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Serve over rice if desired.
Yield: 4 servings
Printable Version
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Update
I just realized it's been almost a month since I've updated! Ever since Thanksgiving, things have been going non-stop. I've been super bad at picture taking, so that's another reason I don't blog as much. I feel guilty for not having anything to show!
Here's Peyton eating spaghetti the messy way. She was getting frustrated trying to eat it normal so I said forget it and let her eat it her own way.
This was a drumstick hat Peyton made at the library just before Thanksgiving time. I thought it was such a fun idea!
Damon loves his bouncy seat, but I guess he wanted to sleep more.
This is an interesting story. Peyton woke up this morning with a little runny nose so I thought she might have been getting a cold. She was acting fine so I went about my errands, going to Target and getting gas. When we got to Costco, Peyton told me she didn't want to go to another store. I told her this was the last one then we would go home. Well, after about 5 minutes of being in Costco (and putting several groceries in my cart already) Peyton started to freak out. She was crying and saying her tummy hurt and right then it hit me: Peyton was about to throw up and there was nothing I could do to stop it. And of course, she did. I didn't know what else to do so I tried to catch it in my hands. There was probably about 8 people standing near me who did absolutely nothing but look at me. So I finally spotted a worker walking by and yelled for him to get some paper towels. Thank goodness he was a nice guy. He told me not to worry about it, and that he would clean up the floor. I told him I just needed to leave and he offered to put all my groceries away. What a sweet guy, and I sure hope he gets blessings out of that!! So Peyton was bathed and put into jammies and on the couch with a bowl next to her. She kept insisting that she was not sick anymore (mostly because she was hungry and wanted to eat) but I told her we needed to wait awhile until she could eat and put a movie on for her. I went in the other room and when I heard her movie was over, I was waiting for her to yell for me to turn it off, put another one in, etc. but she didn't. So I went in there and this is how I found her:
Poor thing.
Here's Peyton eating spaghetti the messy way. She was getting frustrated trying to eat it normal so I said forget it and let her eat it her own way.
This was a drumstick hat Peyton made at the library just before Thanksgiving time. I thought it was such a fun idea!
Damon loves his bouncy seat, but I guess he wanted to sleep more.
This is an interesting story. Peyton woke up this morning with a little runny nose so I thought she might have been getting a cold. She was acting fine so I went about my errands, going to Target and getting gas. When we got to Costco, Peyton told me she didn't want to go to another store. I told her this was the last one then we would go home. Well, after about 5 minutes of being in Costco (and putting several groceries in my cart already) Peyton started to freak out. She was crying and saying her tummy hurt and right then it hit me: Peyton was about to throw up and there was nothing I could do to stop it. And of course, she did. I didn't know what else to do so I tried to catch it in my hands. There was probably about 8 people standing near me who did absolutely nothing but look at me. So I finally spotted a worker walking by and yelled for him to get some paper towels. Thank goodness he was a nice guy. He told me not to worry about it, and that he would clean up the floor. I told him I just needed to leave and he offered to put all my groceries away. What a sweet guy, and I sure hope he gets blessings out of that!! So Peyton was bathed and put into jammies and on the couch with a bowl next to her. She kept insisting that she was not sick anymore (mostly because she was hungry and wanted to eat) but I told her we needed to wait awhile until she could eat and put a movie on for her. I went in the other room and when I heard her movie was over, I was waiting for her to yell for me to turn it off, put another one in, etc. but she didn't. So I went in there and this is how I found her: 
Poor thing.
Truth Tag
Truth Tag
I was tagged by my friend Amy over at Handprints of the Heart , so here goes.
No Lying!!! Share
Can you fill this out without lying? You've been tagged, so now you need to answer all the questions HONESTLY. At the end, choose at least 3 people to be tagged.
1. What was the last thing you put in your mouth? A grilled cheese sandwich
2. Where was your profile picture taken? At Mojave Narrows
3. Can you play Guitar Hero? YES!
4. Name someone who made you laugh today? My kids
5. How late did you stay up last night and why? 10:00pm. I usually stay up later but my husband was already in bed (he's been commuting really far and working long hours) so I just went to bed too
6. If you could move somewhere else, would you? Yes. Someday!
7. Ever been kissed under fireworks? Yes
8. Which of your friends lives closest to you on FaceBook? Probably my in-laws. They are less than a mile from here.
9. Do you believe ex's can be friends? Depends on the situation
10. How do you feel about Dr Pepper? MY FAVE!
11. When was the last time you cried really hard? I'm not sure. It's been a long time.
12. Who took your profile picture on fb? Jenolyn
13. Who was the last person you took a picture of? Peyton
14. Was yesterday better than today? YES! I went to exercise and got things accomplished at home. Today, I got thrown up on at Costco (story to come).
15. Can you live a day without TV? Heck yes!
16. Are you upset about anything? Just that Peyton is sick.
17. Do you think relationships are ever really worth it? DEFINITELY!
18. Are you a bad influence? I hope not!
19. Night out or night in? Definitely OUT!
20. What items could you not go without during the day? Diapers and wipes, lots of wipes
21. Who was the last person you visited in the hospital? Probably Angel, just after she had Emma!
22. What does the last text message in your inbox say? "Did you try to catch it?" Referring to the barf haha
23. How do you feel about your life right now? Pretty good! Just busy!
24. Do you hate anyone? No
25. If we were to look in your FaceBook inbox, what would we find? Probably a couple messages. I forget to delete them usually
26. Say you were given a drug test right now, would you pass? FOR SURE! Unless caffeine counts...
27. Has anyone ever called you perfect before? My hubby (but he's crazy!)
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Stats
The kiddos had doctor's appointment's today! They both were so good. Peyton had to get 1 shot and Damon had to get 3 (plus the one they drink). Peyton cried for about 30 seconds and Damon for about 10 seconds!! I was so afraid I'd be leaving the doctor's office with 2 screaming kids.
At 3 years old, Peyton is 3 feet 2.5 inches tall (she's grown 3 inches from last year) and 29 pounds (she's gained 0 pounds from last year!) She is in the 75th percentile for height, and the 25th for weight. We are in the middle of potty training her now, so hopefully she will be diaper-free soon!
At 4 months old, Damon is 2 feet 2.5 inches tall (only a foot shorter than his big sister!) and 16 pounds 4 ounces (3 pounds in 2 months). He is in the 95th percentile for height and the 75th for weight. Also, as soon as we got home from the doctor's, I put him down on the floor and he rolled from back to tummy!! Then proceeded to roll and roll across the floor!! All I can say is NOOOO! He needs to stay my baby longer and not be so mobile yet!! I tried to get a video, but of course, he was done rolling for the day apparently. So Instead, I got a video of him "talking".
I also got Peyton to sing some songs. She is so much fun!
Wheels on the bus:
4 Little Monkeys:
Monday, November 15, 2010
Stuff
We have had a busy week! On November 12th, Chris and I celebrated our 5th anniversary! It's crazy to think we have been married for 5 years already. I love that man more now than I did when I married him! He makes me so happy.
Peyton also turned 3 YEARS OLD yesterday! Holey moley, where has the time gone? I swear I just brought her home from the hospital. Her birthday is also the 3rd anniversary of me becoming a mom! I've kept a child alive for 3 years! And she's so cute I must be doing something right. We celebrated with a family dinner on the 7th and some cupcakes.
For her actual birthday, it wasn't so exciting, being Sunday and all. But we let her open her presents from Grandma and Grandpa Sullivan and we had cake and ice cream. She wanted a red cake with blue frosting and red sprinkles... I know, yikes right? I didn't think it was so bad and it was her birthday so it's her choice! She put the sprinkles on herself!
We also took family pictures, which I have to admit, I was afraid wouldn't turn out because the weather was SUPER windy and freezing. But you can go here to see them and let me know what you think. I love them!!
Family party on the 7th
Concentrating hard on making a wish...
Opening gifts.
After church on her actual birthday (the 14th).
The cake!
3 years old!
This is just a random picture I thought was so cute. Peyton is the best big sister!
Sharing her toys with her baby brother. Just look at those eyes, he loves her so much!
Peyton also turned 3 YEARS OLD yesterday! Holey moley, where has the time gone? I swear I just brought her home from the hospital. Her birthday is also the 3rd anniversary of me becoming a mom! I've kept a child alive for 3 years! And she's so cute I must be doing something right. We celebrated with a family dinner on the 7th and some cupcakes.
For her actual birthday, it wasn't so exciting, being Sunday and all. But we let her open her presents from Grandma and Grandpa Sullivan and we had cake and ice cream. She wanted a red cake with blue frosting and red sprinkles... I know, yikes right? I didn't think it was so bad and it was her birthday so it's her choice! She put the sprinkles on herself!
We also took family pictures, which I have to admit, I was afraid wouldn't turn out because the weather was SUPER windy and freezing. But you can go here to see them and let me know what you think. I love them!!
Family party on the 7th
Concentrating hard on making a wish...
Opening gifts.
After church on her actual birthday (the 14th).
The cake!
3 years old!
This is just a random picture I thought was so cute. Peyton is the best big sister!Sharing her toys with her baby brother. Just look at those eyes, he loves her so much!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Recipe Thursday: Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
I made these for our ward Halloween party and they are the BEST PEANUT BUTTER COOKIE EVER! Not even exaggerating.
*Image by My Kitchen Cafe
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies (courtesy of My Kitchen Cafe)
*Makes about 4-5 dozen
1 cup (16 tablespoons) butter, softened to room temperature
2 cups smooth or chunky peanut butter
1 ½ cups firmly packed light brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 ½ tablespoons milk
1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups chocolate chips (or a combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips)
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
In a large bowl combine the butter and peanut butter and beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy (you can do this with a hand mixer or with an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment). Add the brown and white sugars and mix until well combined. Add the eggs and mix for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is well combined and light in color. Add the milk and vanilla and mix. Add the dry ingredients and mix just briefly. While there are still large spots of flour, add the chocolate chips (or peanut butter chips or both) and mix until the flour is completely mixed in and the mixture is well combined. Let the cookie dough sit for 15 minutes before scooping onto the baking sheets. It will firm up as it sits.
When ready to bake, scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto silpat or parchment-lined baking sheets leaving about 1 to 2 inches in between the cookies to allow for spreading as they bake. Bake for 10-11 minutes, taking care not to overbake in the slightest! Leave the cookies on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes after baking before removing them to a cooling rack. This will help them set up and be firm enough to transfer without having them overbake in the oven. The cookies may look slightly underbaked but they will firm up as they cool. Resist the urge to eat them warm as they taste much better cooled.
I pop baked and cooled cookies into the freezer (in a large tupperware or freezer-safe ziploc bag) and they taste great out of the freezer, especially if they are left to sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
*Image by My Kitchen Cafe
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Halloween
We had our ward party on last night and it was a lot of fun! (As well as freezing cold and windy!!) Peyton was a princess and Damon was a dragon. They looked so cute. Chris and I recycled our costumes from 2 years ago.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Long Overdue
Life has been crazy-busy! Ever since Damon was born, I feel like I have hit the ground running and haven't stopped yet. I don't know if it's the addition of another child, or just life in general, but it's nuts.
So I thought it was time for a little update. Peyton is 2 years and 11 months old, I cannot believe she will be 3 next month! Then she'll be going to Primary in January! Peyton constantly amazes me with the things she says and does. When we were on our way to Disneyland last week, I spilled hot chocolate on my pants. Needless to say I was very irritated and Chris and I started having a bit of a "heated" discussion. All of a sudden Peyton bursts out, "Hey you guys! Let's just be nice and have a good day at Disneyland, ok?" haha That definitely broke the ice and we couldn't be upset anymore. She is such a little mom with Damon too. She talks to him and plays with him and just loves him to death. Right now we are working on number and letter recognition and she can spell her own name! (Out loud, not writing it). She loves to dance and sing and read books. She loves to play pretend and tell me crazy stories. She loves storytime at the library and doing the crafts there. We hope to put her in dance soon! We love our little girl!
Damon is already 3 months old!! He is getting so big so fast. I don't have his stats (I will when he goes in a month for his 4 month appointment). He is wearing 6-9 month clothes already and is in a size 3 diaper! He hasn't rolled over yet, but has come close many times. He can lift his head and chest up on his tummy and love to reach and grab anything that he can. He isn't the biggest pacifier fan, but loves to suck on his fingers. He drools a lot and has such a sweet laugh. He is a good sleeper at night (generally goes 5-8 hours) and has just started getting better at daytime naps. He loves his big sister and she can always make him laugh and smile. He is a definite mama's boy and I love it. He is so sweet and I am just grateful he is a part of our family now!
I have just been busy trying to keep up with my little ones for the most part! I am on the activities committee at church so that keeps me busy when an activity is coming up. I also just got another calling (yes, 2!) to be on the enrichment committee so that will bring some more busyness as well! I have been exercising 5-6 days a week and am proud to say I am back to where I was before I was pregnant with Damon! Now it's time to get back into pre-Peyton shape! I love the exercise class at my church and have started teaching sometimes and coming up with new routines, so fun! I have also still been working on trying new recipes and expanding my repertoire. I am seriously considering publishing my own cookbook, but am still unsure as far as that goes.
Chris has just been staying busy working and doing his calling with the Young Men! They are currently planning a bike trip for next summer down the coast of California. He is so excited to have a baby boy now, and says it's nice to have it even (2 boys, 2 girls).
So here are some pictures from this month (just a side note, I have basically given up in the picture department. I am tired of beating my self up for not taking pictures because I am living in the moment, so pictures are few and far between. I have also forgotten my camera for Damon's first trip to Disneyland, but that's ok! I'll remember it ;) )
A small trip to California Adventure at night:
We blessed Damon in church on 10-10-10! We had family and friends come, but didn't get a whole lot of pictures of everyone. Damon looked so cute in his little white outfit!
My cute kiddos just hanging out at home:
So I thought it was time for a little update. Peyton is 2 years and 11 months old, I cannot believe she will be 3 next month! Then she'll be going to Primary in January! Peyton constantly amazes me with the things she says and does. When we were on our way to Disneyland last week, I spilled hot chocolate on my pants. Needless to say I was very irritated and Chris and I started having a bit of a "heated" discussion. All of a sudden Peyton bursts out, "Hey you guys! Let's just be nice and have a good day at Disneyland, ok?" haha That definitely broke the ice and we couldn't be upset anymore. She is such a little mom with Damon too. She talks to him and plays with him and just loves him to death. Right now we are working on number and letter recognition and she can spell her own name! (Out loud, not writing it). She loves to dance and sing and read books. She loves to play pretend and tell me crazy stories. She loves storytime at the library and doing the crafts there. We hope to put her in dance soon! We love our little girl!
Damon is already 3 months old!! He is getting so big so fast. I don't have his stats (I will when he goes in a month for his 4 month appointment). He is wearing 6-9 month clothes already and is in a size 3 diaper! He hasn't rolled over yet, but has come close many times. He can lift his head and chest up on his tummy and love to reach and grab anything that he can. He isn't the biggest pacifier fan, but loves to suck on his fingers. He drools a lot and has such a sweet laugh. He is a good sleeper at night (generally goes 5-8 hours) and has just started getting better at daytime naps. He loves his big sister and she can always make him laugh and smile. He is a definite mama's boy and I love it. He is so sweet and I am just grateful he is a part of our family now!
I have just been busy trying to keep up with my little ones for the most part! I am on the activities committee at church so that keeps me busy when an activity is coming up. I also just got another calling (yes, 2!) to be on the enrichment committee so that will bring some more busyness as well! I have been exercising 5-6 days a week and am proud to say I am back to where I was before I was pregnant with Damon! Now it's time to get back into pre-Peyton shape! I love the exercise class at my church and have started teaching sometimes and coming up with new routines, so fun! I have also still been working on trying new recipes and expanding my repertoire. I am seriously considering publishing my own cookbook, but am still unsure as far as that goes.
Chris has just been staying busy working and doing his calling with the Young Men! They are currently planning a bike trip for next summer down the coast of California. He is so excited to have a baby boy now, and says it's nice to have it even (2 boys, 2 girls).
So here are some pictures from this month (just a side note, I have basically given up in the picture department. I am tired of beating my self up for not taking pictures because I am living in the moment, so pictures are few and far between. I have also forgotten my camera for Damon's first trip to Disneyland, but that's ok! I'll remember it ;) )
A small trip to California Adventure at night:
We blessed Damon in church on 10-10-10! We had family and friends come, but didn't get a whole lot of pictures of everyone. Damon looked so cute in his little white outfit!
My cute kiddos just hanging out at home: 
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