Are you interested in growing your Instagram account with highly engaged followers? Wouldn’t you love to know the best times and the right frequency for posting to your account? How about a platform that helps keep you organized, is easy to use and best of all saves you valuable time? Tailwind for Instagram is the answer and it is available now.

Tailwind’s most-used product is a visual marketing platform for businesses of all sizes, from bloggers and solopreneurs to large, multi-national companies. They are best known for Tailwind for Pinterest – a complete suite of tools to help marketers build, manage and optimize campaigns on Pinterest.

We signed up with Tailwind for Pinterest in late 2013. Using their tools and analytics has helped us grow our Pinterest following to over 187,000 highly engaged followers. The results of our growth on Pinterest has been tremendous. It has provided increased traffic to our blog, substantial growth in our email subscribers and expanded our influencer bandwidth and viability with brands and companies.

We have been patiently waiting for Tailwind to expand their analytics and scheduling tools to include Instagram. The wait is over, and the scheduling can begin. Here are a few of the features included with Tailwind for Instagram.

• Scheduling and analytics tool built on the same platform as Tailwind’s popular Pinterest marketing tool.  It is designed to enable bloggers, influencers and marketers to schedule their Instagram posts in advance on a desktop computer or a mobile device.  
• Tailwind for Instagram uses push notifications to alert members when it is time for them to post to Instagram. They need only swipe the screen and their scheduled post will be waiting for them to post with their desired caption copied to their clipboard.  
• Tailwind is an official Instagram Partner. Tailwind has been thoroughly vetted by Instagram. As an official partner, this means you can trust the quality of the software, that it abides by terms of use, and that your sensitive data will be secure and protected.
• For bloggers and small and medium-sized businesses, Tailwind for Instagram costs $9.99 per month if billed annually or $15 if billed monthly. Enterprise pricing is custom and features additional product enhancements like hashtag monitoring, community management, influencer identification and advanced analytics.
• You can start a free trial at Tailwind. (no credit card necessary)

Post to your Instagram in 3 easy steps!

In addition to quick and easy scheduling, you can see your posting schedule at a glance. Tailwind also analyzes best posting times of day/night then suggests those specific timeslots for higher engagement.

You can view your calendar visually and schedule posts on your desktop, tablet or phone.

Enjoy this short video to see how scheduling and posting to Instagram is 60% faster with Tailwind than without it.  That’s a one minute saving per post.  With the average brand posting to Instagram 1 to 2 times a day, that adds up to 6 to 12 hours saved per year.

The video also shows Tailwind’s bulk image upload and browser extension features being used to schedule 10 posts to Instagram in under a minute.  These features might be especially appealing to those who manage multiple Instagram accounts, who regram user-generated content, or who post content to Instagram from their website.

Tailwind for Instagram not only saves you time, it helps increase your following. Watch the Facebook live video below to find out how one company tripled their following!

Tailwind’s goal is to make marketing your business as seamless as possible. As business owners we have learned providing a great product is not enough. It needs to come with excellent customer support. This is where we feel Tailwind stands out above other companies.

When we have a question, it is answered in a timely manner. If we have a problem, it gets fixed with a quick turnaround time and follow-up. Tailwind has asked us multiple times “what can we do to make your experience better?”. We have responded with specific answers and seen many of our (reasonable) requests implemented. If you are serious about taking your Instagram following to the next level Tailwind has the all the tools and support to get you there.

Head on over and start your free trial, you won’t regret it!

The post Take Your Instagram To The Next Level With Tailwind appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Sharper Image for IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Sharper Image. All opinions are 100% mine.

With the holiday season upon us, I’m in the thick of working through my Christmas shopping list. I have learned over the years that the key to enjoying the holidays is to simplify as much as possible. If you’re like me, battling crowds while shopping for Christmas gifts is not an enjoyable experience. Fortunately, there is a better option. Have you tried shopping online at Sharper Image? You can find unique, high-quality items for everyone on your list without breaking your bank. Have someone on your list you’re wondering what in the world they would like? Here are five gifts from Sharper Image that anyone would love!

Sharper Image Pizza Box Oven

I have a 14-year- old son who handed me his Christmas list weeks ago. Can you guess what item is at the top of his list? A drone! His list also includes the exact features he wants in a drone. A quick trip to Sharper Image’s Drone Zone page provided me with 23 drones in different sizes, with various capabilities to choose from. The Quad Smart Drone has dual speed modes for excellent outdoor flying, even in moderate winds. The built-in gyroscope for stability means he can perform 360-degree maneuvers . . aka cool flips and aerial stunts. It charges easily via USB (included with purchase) or our AAA batteries.Sharper Image RC Video Camera Spy Car.

Sharper Image Remote Control Car

Sharper Image Lava Lamp

I remember the time my parents brought home a Lava Lamp when I was a young “tweener.” I’m not going to tell you how long ago that was! I appreciated its coolness factor and refused to admit that I enjoyed watching the different forms/colors of lava rise and fall.  Lava Lamps are just as “cool” today as they were when I was growing up.  They are an iconic piece of decor that is timeless and a great gift for anyone on my list (including picky teenagers)!

Sharper Image VR Headset

I have quite a few techies  on my Christmas list. Trying to find a gift they will love at a price I can afford is usually a challenge. Problem solved! With this Smartphone VR Headset with Earphones, my techies will love being submerged in a virtual reality 3-D experience. It’s light and sleek (no headaches with this one!), fully adjustable, and has built-in speakers and a touchscreen button. For a techie gift it’s easy to use. Simply place your smartphone into the tray, and enjoy hundreds of free 360-degree games, apps, or videos. I fully intend to use my RC Video Camera car to take humorous footage of my loved ones while they enjoy their virtual reality experience! Now that I have five (okay, four—the RC Car is for me) gifts crossed off my list, I have more time to enjoy the holiday season with family and friends!

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The post You’ll Love These Crazy Good Gift Ideas From Sharper Image appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

I love having a clean house. But, I do not love cleaning. You’d think the house cleans itself! One of my least favorite cleaning tasks is window cleaning. Ten years ago we moved to a larger home. Our kitchen and family room share a long wall with eight full-length windows and a sliding glass door. The living room and entryway have eight full-length windows, and the office has three. That’s a total of 20 full-length windows. (We have a two-story house, I don’t remember the last time I washed the upstairs windows).

I sure do have a love-hate relationship with my windows. When they are clean, I am the happiest and love looking through them to our beautiful front and backyard. I tend to hate them when they are dirty. Can’t even glare at them without some disgust. Since I hate dirty windows, one would assume I clean mine regularly. Wrong. Getting them clean takes what feels like a herculean effort on my part. I usually procrastinate washing them until they are filthy.

Magically Get Your Windows Cleaned

My window cleaning story is an interesting one.

Before knowing this method I will let you in on it shortly, I have tried using other tricks and items. Among them are newspapers and Windex, rubber gloves required to prevent getting ink on all over my hands, a professional cleaning tool with a sponge scrubber, squeegee, and non-lint cleaning cloths. No matter what I tried, it has been a long, tedious process. It always ended up with clean windows with streaks left behind. I was not happy with myself. Let alone my windows.

I finally gave up and decided it was best to ignore the streaks. Because getting perfectly cleaned windows was an impossibility. Then I found this quick, easy non-streak window washing method. And my clean-freak self could not be any happier.

Tools Needed for the Cleaning

For any cleaning to be perfect, you absolutely need the right tools. And they too have to be easily accessible and available at your local store. Good news, for the windows we only need just a few supplies. These are a bucket, a mop, water, Jet Dry, and Dawn dishwashing detergent.

Using this handy cleaning bucket on wheels and microfiber mop (14.75″ 360-degree rotating metal mop) helped keep my actual cleaning time down to just 10 minutes. Which is a great save of time, compared to the long hours I used to waste and end up getting poor results. Using the right tools does make a difference.

Our cleaning tip is not only a time-saver but also saves on costs in the long run. Which is a great plus for this method. Once you buy the supplies, you can use them for long before they get depleted. And you don’t have to use large quantities of them to get your cleaning right.  

The Cleaning Process

1/2 gallon warm water
1 Tablespoon liquid Jet Dry
2-3 Tablespoons Dawn dishwashing soap
Cleaning bucket
Microfiber mop

Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients above in a large bucket.
2. Spray windows down with your hose.
3. Wipe or brush cleaning solution onto windows, immediately hose off your window.

After getting my supplies, I followed my normal routine. I sprayed my windows, wiped them with the cleaning solution, and then rinsed them down. Those three steps only are what it takes. And I found it hard to believe the spots and streaks would dry without leaving some kind of visible residue.

Fifteen minutes later, I was surprised and thrilled to find perfectly cleaned windows! How long did it take me to clean one full sliding glass door and eight full-length windows? Ten minutes flat.

I was skeptical at first, now I am a believer! I hope you get to say the same thing once done with your cleaning too.

Here is how two of my windows looked after cleaning as they dried.

This window had one large water drip down the middle.

And as for this window, it had a lot of wet spots.

Hacks For Stubborn Stains or Streaks

That’s it! You are now done. The remaining water will sheet off, leaving clean streak-free windows. You won’t believe your eyes. It’ll be a dream come true for you.

Sparkling Windows at Last

How does it feel to have clean sparkly windows? Sure feels heavenly. Once I am done cleaning, I usually make myself a nice cup of coffee, mocha preferably. As a pat on my back and sit on the porch and admire the good work a grandma was able to do with her windows. I managed to do. You can steal my idea of celebrating yourself after a good cleaning break.

We can’t help but be grateful to 33 Barefoot Lane for the great cleaning idea! Now all you’ve got to do is keep up with the routine you have started. We are so happy we came through for you. Can’t wait to hear how the whole magic window cleaning process goes down for you. Be sure to leave your comments below. We will really appreciate it.

This was so much fun, guys! Now let’s get those windows all cleaned up!

The post The Magic Way to Clean Your Windows appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

I love finding ideas like this that get my kids outdoors doing something active, away from TV shows, video games, and movies. The idea for this post was inspired by Allison from All For The Boys.

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Debbie, Sherri and I have been working together to lose weight and get in shape. We have spent the last three months changing our poor eating habits. Goodbye, sugar, junk, and processed foods. Hello, healthy whole foods, lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and seeds. As of today, I have dropped 30 of the 50lbs I need to lose.

I remember my father telling me. “Losing weight is the easier half of a healthy lifestyle.” “Maintaining the weight loss permanently is the hard part.” I’ve proved him right by losing and regaining the same weight over the last 20 years.

Changing my eating habits alone will not be enough to get those last 20lbs pounds off and maintain my new physique long term.

The key to my success is adding daily exercise to my routine. Which brings me back to the question should I get a Fitbit? It seems like everyone around me owns one. After doing some research, I decided to take the plunge and purchased a Fitbit Flex.

The answer to my question is yes, using a Fitbit helps me achieve my fitness goals. I choose the Fitbit Flex, because I like the sleek design, and the price worked with my budget.

Over time, diet and exercise can become monotonous. Here is how my Fitbit gets me going and helps make the process more enjoyable.

It gets me MOVING!

When you get your Fitbit, the default goal for every member is set at 10,000. This number has been chosen because the medical community (domestic and international) have found exercising at this level helps to improve overall health and lower the risk of heart disease. It also aids in weight loss, lowering high blood pressure, decreasing waist size, and BMI.

I started with 2,000 steps per day. After finding out how easy it was to reach 2,000, I increased my steps a day to 6,000. I’m working towards 10,000 steps a day. Instead of parking as close as I can to any store when shopping, I choose to park at the last parking space instead. I skip elevators and take the stairs instead. It’s amazing how making simple changes like this help rack up the steps.

Motivation to Excercise – Compete with Friends and Family

You can use the Fitbit app to create groups of friends, family or co-works. Once everyone joins the group the Fitbit app provides a summary of everyone’s steps in order of highest to lowest. Each person in the group then competes to earn a spot at the top of the competition list. The more you compete, the healthier you get. Deb, Sherri and I are going to start a challenge with each other, and I intend to win!

Tracking Exercise and Weight

Before my Fitbit I used to color in the days I had worked out on my desk calendar. I tracked my weight on a separate spreadsheet in a secret location never to been seen by anyone but me! Now both my weight and exercise are recorded in one place on my Fitbit.

Sleep Patterns Tracked

When I crawl into bed, I put my Flex into sleep mode and my sleep patterns are recorded. If I forget, I can manually input when I went to bed and when I wake up. The summary displays when I was restless and when I was in my deepest sleep. Reviewing my sleep patterns helped me realize I need to be better about getting more zzzzz’s.

Customizable Food Log/Calorie Tracker

I can use it as a food log and calorie tracker. Even if I forget to add the calorie count for each item, looking at my daily food log helps me make healthier choices.
Adding food entries is easy, you can choose from an extensive list of groceries and restaurant food. You can also create custom lists of foods you eat on a regular basis.

The Design

I like the slim, sleek design, having a battery life of five to seven days, and it’s water resistant. I don’t have to take it off to shower or wash dishes. Different color bands are available to jazz it up if you get tired of the black band.

Silent Alarm

A silent alarm can be used so I will wake up on time without disturbing my husband.

Easy to Use

It only takes a couple of taps on the wristband for me to see where I stand at reaching my daily goal.

Let us know if you have a Fitbit, we’ll create a TGIF-This Grandma is Fun! group and invite you to join!

The post Will Fitbit Help You Get in Shape and Have a Healthier Lifestyle? appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

It is not going to take a lot of your time. Learn the benefits of grilling, how to keep your BBQ sparkling clean and ready for your backyard party. Put safety first and keep your cooking space spotless. 

Why do I prefer using a BBQ grill?

Especially in the summer, cooking with BBQ gives me a holiday and festive feeling. In fact, I love to BBQ for so many reasons. Instead of being in a hot kitchen, I can enjoy grilling in my backyard. 

Always enjoy being outdoors and spend more time in the sun. The grill adds a specific smoky flavor to the meals and makes them special.

Besides, outside of marinating the meat, BBQing takes little planning and time. It is a healthy way to diversify your meal plan and add some grilled veggies to the plate. 

Benefits of grilling

• it takes less time to prepare
• food tastes great
• provides quality time with the family
• great for a party outdoors
• helps spend time outdoors
• adds diversity into your menu
• improves your cooking skills
• helps cook healthier meals

It is also healthy. You can grill veggies, bread, meat, and fish. Eating at home saves money and tastes better. The main thing with grilling is that fat melts off. It is a lot healthier than frying. Moreover, when you cook the meat at a BBQ, it is a lot juicier and satisfying. Also, it comes with this specific smoked flavor.

Why should you clean your BBQ grills?

If you don’t have the habit to clean your grill, this can lead to accumulating excess grease. It is possible to cause a fire later on. You should clean your BBQ grills to help them last longer and cook better. Moreover, it reduces the chance of fire.

Are you hosting a party this weekend? You want to make a good impression, right? Well, a tidy, shiny, and sparkling clean BBQ grill is the one that you should use for your backyard family gathering or a weekend party. It is simple when you know how to clean it properly and maintain it clean for a longer time. 

Benefits of a clean BBQ grill

• the grill will last longer
• the grill will cook better
• removes harmful carcinogens
• reduces the chance of fire

A clean barbecue is an attractive view! It shows care and gives your guests the feeling that the food they eat is safe. Also, it shows that you maintain your kitchen tools and utensils. It can tell a lot about your character and cleaning habits. 

Dirty grills tend to accumulate bacteria that can cause disease. It is not healthy, and the food may get contaminated. There are food particles that stay on the grill and can get into your food. 

Don’t allow you or some of your guests to get sick because of your dirty grills. Here is how I get my BBQ grills sparkling clean with minimal effort. Ammonia is the “magic” ingredient that makes cleaning easier.

Supplies

• Ammonia
• Trash bag
• Rubberband
• Safety glasses
• Rubber gloves

Techniques to keep your BBQ grill clean

Scrape any food left on the grill. You can rub the cooking surface with a large piece of onion. It will help to get rid of burnt-on food. You can also use a wire brush. Using a grill cover will prolong the life of your grill. It prevents the grill from getting rusty.

Grilling safety tips

When you use the BBQ grill, have in mind these several tips and make sure your use it the right way and carefully. 

• Always use the grill outside.
• Beware not to burn yourself.
• Keep the little children away from the grill.
• Make sure your grill is on a flat surface.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Wear appropriate clothing – gloves and a cooking apron.
• Always clean your grill after use.
• Never use the same kitchen platters and utensils for raw and cooked meat.
• To prevent charring, remove the fat that can cause a flare-up.

Make sure you store your products the right way. To prevent foodborne illness, never use the same kitchen tools for raw and cooked meat. Keep everything clean and safe.

What is the magic ingredient for cleaning your BBQ grills?

Even if I heat the BBQ, brushing the hot grill can’t get all the leftover gunk off. A couple of times a year, I like to give them a good deep clean with as little effort as possible on my part. Hello, household ammonia!

Here is how I get my BBQ grills sparkling clean with minimal effort. Ammonia is the “magic” ingredient that makes cleaning easier.

How to clean your BBQ grills – the magic way?

Pour 1 cup ammonia in a thick garbage bag, place your BBQ grates inside the bag and seal tightly. I used a rubber band to seal my garbage bag. You should seal the bag tightly. It is the fumes from the ammonia that loosens all the gunk on your grates. If you do not seal your garbage bag tightly the fumes will escape, and your grill will be a lot more difficult to clean. 

Because ammonia is a toxic substance to animals, grass, and plants, I made sure the bag is sealed tight enough that no ammonia would leak out and cause any harm to the surrounding environment.

Be careful to turn your face away when you open your garbage bag the next day. The fumes will be strong and can make your eyes burn. Remove your grills from the bag, scrub them lightly if needed and rinse them off until cleaning begins. Thank you Life 123 for inspiring such a great cleaning method.

Proper disposal of ammonia

For proper disposal of ammonia, the Poison Control Center recommends disposing of it down a sink where there is plenty of ventilation, such as a garage sink. If you do not have a garage sink, Poison Control recommends opening a window(s) near the sink you are using for 10 to 15 minutes.

You also have the option of taking your ammonia to the nearest hazardous waste center and having them dispose of it for you. (The girl at Poison Control Center asked me if this method works. I told her “Yes.” She was excited to go home and give it a try!)

What types of food can you grill on a BBQ?

It is time to get your grill on! Grilling is not just for the main course. You can also grill appetizers, side dishes, and desserts. The best part is I usually use fewer pots and pans, which makes cleaning up faster. That only leaves one thing – cleaning the BBQ grills. 

I usually brush the grills and clean them right after cooking the meat. But every so often, I forget. And the next time I open my grill, I will find a mess.

Tips for having the perfect BBQ backyard party

First of all, clean your BBQ grills. Make sure you follow the steps explained in this article. Then plan and organize your party. 

These tips will guarantee you host the best family reunion ever! Keep your menu simple. For example, you can include hamburgers, hot dogs, salads, appetizers, desserts, veggies, and cool drinks on your menu. Think of some games that your guest can enjoy while you grill the food. 

Play some good music and let your guests enjoy the lovely food!

Provide:

• clean BBQ grill
• tasty and nutritious food
• cool drinks
• good music
• cozy and comfortable pillows
• table cloths
• table decorations
• pretty backyard lighting
• outdoor party games

Prepare some of the food before the guests arrive. This way, it will be less stressful for your to host the party. Make homemade lemonades of other fizzy drinks. Use table cloths, pillows, decorations, string lights to make the atmosphere cozier, relaxed, and friendly. 

Think of some party games for even more family fun and quality time spent outdoors. It will keep the grandkids busy for a while and will add to the excitement. 

In conclusion

Are you planning a family reunion? Make sure you clean your BBQ grills, first. Think about the health issues that may occur if you neglect your cleaning habits and do not take care of your BBQ grills. It is the same with all the kitchen equipment you use. 

In short, the food needs to be prepared with clean and safe kitchen tools. Cleaning your BBQ grills will help you reduce the chance of fire. Also, it prolongs the life of your grills and makes the food taste better. Use this “magic” way to clean it with minimum effort and enjoy your BBQ time!

There is only one thing you should do once your BBQ is sparkling clean – get grilling! Here are our top BBQ recipes to help get you started.

Appetizers
Mango BBQ Brisket and Brie Quesadillas
Glazed Ham and Pineapple Kabobs

Main Course
Applesauce BBQ Chicken
Stuffed Flank Steak Kabobs
Grilled Flatbread with Chorizo & Peppers
Grilled Hawaiin Chicken
Bacon Pineapple Burgers
Spiral Hot Dogs
Grilled Potatoes and Asparagus with Basil and Parmesan

Dessert
Campfire Banana Boats
Campfire Eclairs

Did you like our article about cleaning BBQ grills? You have to read these other cleaning tips here:

• The magic way to clean your windows
• Clean your iron the magic way
• Spring clean bathroom like a pro in 2 minutes
• Magic silver cleaner
• Best cleaning tips on Pinterest

The post Cleaning BBQ Grills the Magic Way appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Hair bows for little girls are like shoes for women, you can NEVER have enough! Enter Babewell, a subscription based company run by two mom’s Kaitlynn and Shannon who have little girls and love creating darling hair bows.

Signing up is easy, a monthly subscription provides you with 3 bows a month for $11.99 (+$3.50 shipping).

 

Kaitlynn and Shannon are two moms, two friends, and two business owners that are doing what they love.

How do they feel about their business?

“We’re here to promote bows, of course, but also here to promote happiness. We’ve gotten really good at piecing together the little happy moments that make for a happy life. That’s what we want to share with you. Simple pleasures”.

“Our company is simple. We sell bows. We sell that little fun package you get every month that makes your day a little better. I guess you could say we sell a little bit of happiness”.

Head on over to BabeWell now so you can start receiving your own little packages of happiness every month!

Tracy

The post BabeWell Hair Bow’s appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Supplies Needed

• 100% Cotton shirt in Dad’s size – buy here
• Contact paper
• Spray bottle
• Exacto knife and cutting board
• Marker or pen
• Bleach (small amount in spray bottle)
• Grandchild’s hand to trace for the shirt

This project is best if you spray the bleach on the  t-shirts outdoors away from anything that bleach might harm.

1. Cut a piece of contact paper into a square shape large enough for a child’s hand to fit. I used a plain piece of paper to practice cutting the heart out and then traced the paper cut out onto the contact paper.

If your grandchild is old enough allow them to trace their hand themselves. For the younger children trace their hand for them. Then draw a small heart in the palm of the hand.

Using a cutting board and an Exacto knife, cut out the handprint and heart.

Lay shirt on a smooth hard surface. Decide where you want your child’s handprint on the shirt. Usually right around the heart area is good.

Peel the backing off the contact paper and carefully place the clear contact paper onto the shirt. Smooth out any wrinkles as you go.    Make sure there is no hair or dust under the design. (If the contact paper is not attached well the bleach might seep beneath the hand print design.)

Place another piece of contact paper on the inside of the shirt to protect the back of the shirt from bleach seeping through.

Hang up your shirt.

Add some bleach into your spray bottle and spray bleach directly onto the shirt where the contact paper handprint is. Be CAREFUL not to use too much bleach or it will seep through to the back of the shirt. Do not allow smaller children to spray the bleach, do this part for them.

Allow the shirt to hang outside for 15 minutes to half an hour. Kids love to see how the bleach starts working in just a few minutes!

Place the shirt in the washing machine with the contact paper handprint still in place and wash according to the shirts washing directions.

Remove the shirt from the dryer and admire your handiwork! Have your grandkids help wrap it up for a fun Father’s Day gift.

Here is a close-up of how the darling handprint turns out!

Any Dad and/or Grandpa will be thrilled to wear this handmade Father’s Day gift!

Inspiration for this fun post is from Kim Bond at Spotted Pony

The post Easy Fathers Day Shirt appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

We have gathered 100 hundred delightful rainbow snacks, treats, and desserts you can make for your grandchildren. They are perfect for birthday parties celebrations and, of course, St. Patrick’s day. St. Patrick’s day is just around the corner. Sneaky leprechauns will be busy avoiding the many traps set for them so they can make it to the pot of gold at the end of a beautiful rainbow!

Secret Rainbow Cupcakes from Bloom Designs.

Rainbow JIGGLERS from Kraft.

Magic Rainbow Milk Experiment {scroll to bottom of page} from Bath Activities for Kids.

Egg-Free Rainbow Meringue Cookies {Vegan} from Nerdy Mama.

Rainbow Tie-Dye Ice Cream from Foodista.

Rainbow Fruit Cookie Cake by I am Baker.

Rainbow Smoothie from Sweet & Savory by Shinee.

Skittles Rainbow Fudge from Lemon Tree Dwelling.

Skittles Rainbow Ice Cream {Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free} from Nerdy Mamma.

Simple Homemade Marshmallows by Hoosier Homemade.

Rainbow Sugar Cookie Bark from Mom On Time Out.

Rainbow Birthday Cake from Meaningful Mama.

Rainbow Cake Trifle from The Kitchen Magpie.

Rainbow Cherry Jigglers from Jelly Shot Test Kitchen.

Rainbow Wrapped Marshmallows from Smart School House.

Rainbow Cake Roll from Hungry Happenings.

Rainbow Poke Cake from Sweet Pea’s Kitchen.

Rainbow Fruit Ice Cubes from Eats Amazing.

Rainbow Pinwheel Cookies from Mom on TimeOut

Sweetworks Rainbow Fish Cake from Modly Chic.

Salt Water Taffy Rainbow Kabab’s from Craftberry Bush.

Rainbow Jello Recipe from One Little Project.

Rainbow Ruffle Birthday Cake from I Am Baker.

Rainbow Cookies {Slice and Bake} from Crazy for Crust.

Rainbow Poptarts from Brooke Mclay at Babble.

Rainbow Peanut Butter Cookie Cups from Crazy for Crust.

Rainbow Peppermint Patties from Girl Who Ate Everything.

St. Patrick’s Day Cookies: Rainbows, Shamrocks and Gold and Gold from Amanda’s Cookin’.

Rainbow Palmiers from Crazy for Crust.

Layered Rainbow Cupcakes from Skinny Fitalicious.

Rainbow Cake Roll from Hungry Happenings.

Easy Rainbow Cake from Just a Taste.

Sweet & Salty Rainbow Popcorn from Frugal Foodie Mama.

St. Patrick’s Day Fruit Treat from Our Life with 10 Kids.

Cake Batter & Sprinkle Cookies from Ashlee Marie.

St. Patty’s Day Sweet Rainbow Kabobs from Teach Mama.

Rainbow Pudding for St. Patrick’s Day from Mad in Crafts.

Rainbow Water from Happy Hooligans.

Rainbow Flower Cookies Bakingdom.

Rainbow Rice Krispies Treat Pops from Love From the Oven.

Rainbow Crepes with Key Lime Whipped Cream from The Proper Blog.

Graham Cracker Rainbow Weather Snack from Capturing Joy.

DIY Rainbow Washi Tape Party Favors from No Biggie.

No Bake Rainbow Pie from Spend with Pennies.

Rainbow Bars from Bloom Designs.

Rainbow Swirl Bread from Girl Versus Dough.

Rainbow Pancakes from I Am Baker.

Whole Fruit Rainbow Popsicles from The View From Great Island.

Over The Rainbow Waffles from Mamma Told Me.

Mini Rainbow Doughnuts from Hoosier Homemade.

Double Rainbow Quick Pops from Zoku Blog.

Over The Rainbow Treats from Create Craft Love.

Rainbow Truffles from The Domestic Rebel.

Sparkly Rainbow Marshmallow Kabobs from The Decorated Cookie.

Rainbow with Clouds Cookies – Slice and Bake from Eugenie Kitchen.

Rainbow Brownie Bites from My Frugal Adventures.

Rainbow Cheesecake Dip {Skinny} from Crazy for Crust.

Rainbow Veggie Skewers from Gimme some Oven.

Rainbow Ribbon Salad {leave out the alcohol} from Jelly Shot Test Kitchen.

Rainbow Gelatin Orange Wedges from tbspSusan.

Rainbow Brownies from Tablespoon.

Rainbow Fudge From Tablespoon.

Rainbow Stuffed French Toast From I Am Baker.

Teeny Tiny Rainbow Cakes from Tablespoon.

Rainbow Lemon Mini Cheesecakes from Sunshine’s Kitchen.

Rainbow Macarons Recipe from Best Friends for Frosting.

Edible Rainbow Milk Homemade Paint Recipe from Learn ~ Play ~ Imagine.

Lucky Charms Leprechaun Hat Cake from Betty Crocker.

Rainbow and Race Cars Birthday Cookies from Glorious Treats.

Pot of Gold Cupcakes from baking a moment.

Easy Rainbow Pretzel Wands from Mom On Timeout.

DIY Rainbow Cake in a Jar from Juliette Laura.

Mini Rainbow Cupcakes from Hoosier Homemade.

Rainbow Fondant Cupcake Cups from Hungry Happenings.

Rainbow Ice Cubes from The Flavor Blender.

Colorful Rainbow Sugar Cookie Boxes from Foodista

Sparkly Rainbow Fruit Gummies from Our Best Bites

Easy Rainbow Candy Pops from The Decorated Cookie.

Skittles Straws from The Decorated Cookie.

Rainbow Crepe Cake from Girl Versus Dough.

Rainbow Party Chex Mix from Tablespoon.

Spring Rainbow Yogurt Tartlets from Girl Who Ate Everything.

Rainbow Pot O’ Gold Marshmallow Pops from Club Chica Circle

Rainbow Donuts from The First Year.

Homemade Rainbow Chocolate Chip Cookies from Incredible Recipes from Heave

Rainbow Chip Fudge from Betty Crocker.

Rainbow Bagels from What Jew Want to Eat.

Rainbow Cake Pops from The Crafting Foodie.

Rainbow Krispie Treat from Dessert Now Dinner Later.

Rainbow Fruit Skewers from Raining Hot Coupons.

Rainbow Pinata Cake from Hungry Happenings.

End-of-The-Rainbow Cookie Parfaits from Tablespoon.

Rainbow Vanilla Cheesecake Bars from Inside BruCrew Life.

Rainbow Meringue Truffle Cones from Sprinkle Bakes.

St. Patrick’s Day Rainbow Treat Bags from Cincy Shopper

Chocolate Covered Rainbow Strawberries from Love Bakes Good Cakes.

Rainbow Pretzel Sticks from Frosting and a Smile.

Rainbow Cookies from Pillsbury.

Melted Rainbow Cake from Hungry Happenings.

Rainbow Macaron Tower from Annie’s Eats.

Rainbow Fruit Pizza from The Idea Room

If you have a great rainbow idea we don’t have on our list please share it with us in the comments below!

The post 100 Rainbow Treat and Dessert Recipes appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Children learn important character lessons best when taught by example. All children are faced with situations where they need to have courage and bravery. Outside of situations that present physical danger, children need to learn courage and bravery in the social situations they will face in everyday life. They need the courage to stand up for what is right and bravery to stand up for those being mistreated. Most importantly they must learn to hold to their standards when faced with peer pressure. You can help your grandchildren learn these important character traits by sharing and reading books like these that explore different types of courage and bravery in engaging and powerful stories.

This post contains affiliate links to take you directly to the products listed.

Sheila Rae, the Brave by Kevin Henkes

Big sister Sheila Rae is not afraid of anything – She growls at stray dogs, and bares her teeth at stray cats. But it’s hard demonstrating courage without new and terrifying challenges. When Sheila Rae decides to go home from school a new way she gets lost and becomes lonely and….well, scared. Her younger sister Louise courageously helps her find her way home. The trip home is a triumph for both girls as they learn the value of courage and sisterly support. Written and Illustrated By Kevin Henkes.

Wildest Brother by Cornelia Funke Illustrated by Kerstin Meyer

Ben is a fearless young boy, Brave as a lion, strong as an elephant. When it comes to protecting his big sister, Ann, nothing can stand in his way! Gallantly he spends his day battling monsters and all sorts of ferocious beasts. Ben is a fearless young boy, Brave as a lion, strong as an elephant. When it comes to protecting his big sister, Ann, nothing can stand in his way! Gallantly he spends his day battling monsters and all sorts of ferocious beasts.

Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun: Having the Courage To Be Who You Are

By Maria Dismondy Illustrations by Kimberly Shaw-Peterson

How can Ralph be so mean? Lucy is one of a kind and Ralph loves to point that out. Lucy’s defining moment comes when Ralph truly needs help. Because she knows what she stands for, Lucy has the courage to make a good choice. This charming story empowers children to always do the right thing and be proud of themselves, even when they are faced with someone as challenging as Ralph.

The Bravest of Us All By Marsha Diane Illustrated by Brad Sneed

By Marsha Diane Illustrated by Brad SneedDaring ten-year-old Velma Jean walks barefoot over sandburs, swims in the new horse tank, even stands up to Alfred the Bull. Every day Velma Jean does something that amazes her siblings. To her sister Ruby Jane, she is the bravest of them all. But when a tornado sets down near the edge of their farm, Velma Jean is afraid to seek shelter in the dark storm cellar. It is Ruby Jane who stands up to the weather and brings her sister to safety.  

The Story Of Ruby Bridges: Special Anniversary Edition By Robert Coles, Illustrated by George Ford

This is the true story of an extraordinary 6-year-old who helped shape history when she became the first African-American sent to first grade in an all white school. This moving book captures the courage of a little girl standing alone in the face of racism.

Thank You, Mr. Falker By Patricia Polacco

Patricia Polacco is now one of America’s most loved children’s book creators, but once upon a time, she was a little girl named Trisha starting school. Trisha could paint and draw beautifully, but when she looked at words on a page, all she could see was jumble. It took a very special teacher to recognize little Trisha’s dyslexia: Mr. Falker, who encouraged her to overcome her reading disability.

Stuart’s Cape (pb) Illustrated by Martin Matje

A quirky, inventive chapter book featuring an unusual hero–an 8-year-old worrier. Now in paperback! Stuart’s got problems. It’s raining. He’s bored. And worst of all, he’s new in town, so he’s got a lot to worry about. What does a kid like Stuart need in order to have an adventure? A cape, of course!

Mirette on the High Wire By  Emily Arnold McCully

Mirette on the High Wire By  Emily Arnold McCullyMirette was always fascinated by the strange and interesting people who stayed in her mother’s boardinghouse. But no one excited her as much as Bellini, who walks the clothesline with the grace and ease of a bird. When Mirette discovers that fear has kept him from performing for years, she knows she must repay him for the kindness he has shown her — and show him that sometimes a student can be the greatest teacher of all. 

Not Afraid of Dogs by Susanna Pitzer Illustrated by Lary Day

Daniel is the bravest boy of all! Daniel isn’t afraid of spiders. He isn’t afraid of snakes. He isn’t even afraid of thunderstorms. And no matter what his sister says, he’s certainly not afraid of dogs ― he just doesn’t like them. But there’s no avoiding them when he comes home and his mother is babysitting his aunt’s dog. Susanna Pitzer’s humorous look into the nature of courage, fear, and friendship has a touching outcome for both the brave and the frail of heart.

Wallace’s Lists

Illustrated by Gerald Kruglik, Olof Landström

Wallace, a mouse, could do almost anything. Anything that is, as long as he had a list. Wallace is a shy mouse. He writes lists. Lists of recipes, funny words, and frightening experiences. Wallace meets his lively neighbor named Albert. His world is swiftly opened to new delights, such as painting and music. Wallace and Albert experience the excitement of an adventure, and Wallace discovers a new joy. Friendship. 

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig Illustrated by Patrice Barton

Meet Brian, the invisible boy. Nobody ever seems to notice him or think to include him in their group, game, or birthday party . . . until, that is, a new kid comes to class. When Justin, the new boy, arrives, Brian is the first to make him feel welcome. And when Brian and Justin team up to work on a class project together, Brian finds a way to shine.

Elmer by David McKee

Elmer the elephant is bright-colored patchwork all over. No wonder the other elephants laugh at him! If he were ordinary elephant color, the others might stop laughing. That would make Elmer feel better, wouldn’t it? The surprising conclusion of David McKee’s comical fable is a celebration of individuality and the power of laughter.

Hilda Hen’s Scary Night by Mary Wormell

Night has fallen and Hilda is late getting back to the henhouse. On her way she sees strange, mysterious shapes-a snake, a monster-lurking in the shadows. What are these creatures? Where do they go during the day? Children will soon identify the troublesome shapes as everyday objects found in the farmyard-things that can look a lot spookier at night.

Pete & Pickles by Berkeley Breathed 

Pete is a perfectly predictable, practical, uncomplicated pig. At least, he was . . . before a runaway circus elephant named Pickles stampeded into his life, needing a friend. Pickles is larger than life and overflowing with imagination. She takes Pete swandiving off Niagara Falls. (Sort of.) And sledding down the Matterhorn. (Sort of.) Pete goes along for the wild ride and actually begins to enjoy himself . . . until Pickles goes too far. And Pete tells her she must leave. Yet sometimes the simple life isn?t all it?s cracked up to be.

Willow Finds a Way by Lana Button Illustrated by Tania Howells

In this simple but substantial picture book by Lana Button, shy, quiet Willow silently wishes she could find a way to say no to her bossy classmate Kristabelle’s demands, but the words never seem to come when she needs them.Surprising everyone, even herself, Willow steps up and bravely does something shocking, and it changes the entire dynamic of the classroom.

 

The Story of Fish and Snail by Deborah Freedman

Every day, Snail waits for Fish to come home with a new story. Today, Fish’s story (about pirates!) is too grand to simply be told: Fish wants to show Snail. But that would mean leaving the familiar world of their book—a scary prospect for Snail, who would rather stay safely at home and pretend to be kittens. Fish scoffs that cats are boring; Snail snaps back. Is this book too small for the two feuding friends? Could this be THE END of The Story of Fish and Snail?

Brave Irene by William Steig

Brave Irene is Irene Bobbin, the dressmaker’s daughter. Her mother, Mrs. Bobbin, isn’t feeling so well and can’t possibly deliver the beautiful ball gown she’s made for the duchess to wear that very evening. So plucky Irene volunteers to get the gown to the palace on time, in spite of the fierce snowstorm that’s brewing– quite an errand for a little girl.

The Empty Pot (An Owlet Book) by Demi

A long time ago in China there was a boy named Ping who loved flowers. Anything he planted burst into bloom. The Emperor loved flowers too. When it was time to choose an heir, he gave a flower seed to each child in the kingdom. “Whoever can show me their best in a year’s time,” he proclaimed, “shall succeed me to the throne!” Ping plants his seed and tends it every day. But month after month passes, and nothing grows. When spring comes, Ping must go to the Emperor with nothing but an empty pot. Demi’s exquisite art and beautifully simple text show how Ping’s embarrassing failure is turned triumphant in this satisfying tale of honesty rewarded.

Rotten Teeth by Laura Simms, David Catrow

Speaking in front of the class isn’t easy for small people like Melissa Herman. Especially when there’s nothing very special to say about her house or her family or herself. But with the help of her older brother, Melissa borrows a bottle from her father’s dental office to take to show and tell. The teacher is appalled, but the children are intrigued.

The Princess Knight by Cornelia Funker, Illustrator Kerstin Meyer

Violetta is a princess. But she wants to be a knight. At night, she practices at becoming the best knight in the land. When her father, the king, stages a tournament for Violetta’s hand in marriage, she knows she must win the greatest battle yet, for the most important prize of all – herself.

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn Illustrator Ruth E. Harper & Nancy M. Leak

School is starting in the forest, but Chester Raccoon does not want to go. To help ease Chester’s fears, Mrs. Raccoon shares a family secret called the Kissing Hand to give him the reassurance of her love any time his world feels a little scary. This heartwarming book has become a children’s classic that has touched the lives of millions of children and their parents, especially at times of separation, whether starting school, entering daycare, or going to camp.

Little Polar Bear Lars and the Brave Little Hare by Hans de Beer

One quiet day at the North Pole, Lars, the Little Polar Bear, hears a cry coming from a deep hole in the ice. It‘s Hugo, a scared little hare, who is trapped and needs to be rescued. The two fast become friends, but Lars teases Hugo for being timid, and Hugo wishes Lars would be just a little more careful! Then Lars lands himself in trouble, and Hugo has to show just how brave he can be in an emergency.

Courage

by Bernard Waber

What is courage? Certainly it takes courage for a firefighter to rescue someone trapped in a burning building, but there are many other kinds of courage too. Everyday kinds that normal, ordinary people exhibit all the time, like “being the first to make up after an argument,” or “going to bed without a nightlight.” Bernard Waber explores the many varied kinds of courage and celebrates the moments, big and small, that bring out the hero in each of us.

Mystery of the Spooky Junkyard – A Tale of Courage (Auto-B-Good) by Phillip Walton

Mystery of the Spooky Junkyard – A Tale of Courage
A terrifying encounter with the spooky thing that lurks in the junkyard leaves EJ shaken up. But when a fast-talking ghost hunter shows up in town and promises to catch it for him — for a small fee, of course — EJ would do anything to avoid his fear. Back in the spooky junkyard, they all discover things are not as they seem and EJ finds the source of true courage.

Rainbow Fish to the Rescue by Marcus Pfister Illustrator Alison James

Being a Nana is the BEST!

The post 25 Children’s Books That Help Teach Your Grandchildren About Courage and Bravery appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

All five of our kids are home for Christmas break this year (including my two darling granddaughters 2 1/2 years old and four months old). Our home is currently what we like to call “a beautiful mess.” Dinner tonight is leftovers from our over crowded fridge. We are having a family game night tonight and eating more holiday treats. I’m not sure but I think there is a strong chance today is Thursday.

What I do know for sure is we have had a wonderful Christmas this year, and I’ve gained at least 4 pounds….probably more! I’m not stepping on a scale for at least a month.

Next Monday when I have to go back to reality these Meatball Appetizer Cups will be on the menu. They are perfect for football parties or a quick hearty after school snack.

Print

Meatball Appetizers

Author Adapted by Made From Pinterest

Ingredients

• 2 8 ounce cans crescent dough
• flour for dusting
• 5 ounces Cacique Queso Quesadilla Jalapeño shredded
• 16 frozen meatballs
• 1/2 cup garlic spaghetti sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350° F.
  
• Spray two regular size muffin tins (16 molds total) with non-stick cooking spray.
  
• Lightly flour working surface and extend dough onto it. Separate the dough triangles and press one triangle in each muffin mold. Cover the bottom and sides of the triangle mold. Make sure to press the dough up the sides of the muffin mold.
  
• Sprinkle each cup of dough with 1 teaspoon of shredded cheese. Place one meatball on top of the cheese. Lightly press the meatball down on the cheese and dough.
  
• Bake meatball cups for 10 minutes.
  
• Remove from oven and top with 1 tablespoon spaghetti sauce and 1 tablespoon shredded cheese. Place meatball cups back in oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted, golden brown and bubbly.
  
• Top with fresh chopped parsley, serve warm or cold.

Notes

Recipe inspired by Cacique

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I fried the tortillas for these Lemon Ricotta Dessert Stacks.  They turn out best for if you poke holes in them with a fork before frying. I also used a fork to press down on them while frying so they wouldn’t have bubbles or get too puffy. You can cut down on calories by baking them instead. Again I would recommend poking holes in them with a fork before baking.

Assemby is quick and easy; you can leave them in the fridge covered for up to 24 hours before serving. If you want to get really festive you could add red and green sprinkles and they would like little mini Christmas trees!

Print

Lemon Ricotta Dessert Stacks

Course Dessert

Author Made From Pinterest

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 - 3 tbls powdered sugar use 1 to 3 tbsp depending on how sweet you want your filling to be
• 3/4 tsp lemon juice
• zest of 1 or 2 lemons - I like two lemon zests for extra tartness
• 1/4 cup cold heavy cream - for ricotta mixture
• 1/4 cup cold heavy cream to fill raspberries and top of dessert cups
• 1 package TortillaLand flour tortillas
• extra powdered sugar for dusting
• fresh raspberries for the top of your dessert cups

Instructions

• For the Filling
• In a mini food processor or blender combine the ricotta, powdered sugar, lemon juice and zest. Blend well.
  
• Whip the whipping cream until stiff peaks form and fold into the ricotta mixture.
  
• For the Flour Flowers
  
• Stack 3 TortillaLand tortillas on a cutting board, use a flower cookie cutter to cut out 5 flowers per dessert cup.
  
• Use a fork to poke six holes in each flower. Fry in hot oil until golden brown.
  
• Lay on paper towels and blot off excess oil. Allow to cool completly
  
• For assembly
• Dip the petals of the flowers in powdered sugar.
  
• Put a spoonfull of lemon ricotta mixture on one flower flour tortilla. Place another flower flour tortilla over the lemon ricotta mixture. Repeat until you have 4 layers.
  
• Place a small cluster of lemon zest on the top flower flour tortilla, add a dollop of whipped cream.
  
• Slice a very small piece off the bottom of each raspberry so they will sit evenly on top of your dessert cups. Fill with whip cream and top with a small amount of lemon zest. Place filled raspberry on top of the lemon zest and whipped cream dollop.
  
• Place in refrigerator until ready to serve.

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I tasted my first homemade tortilla when our family was on vacation dirt bike riding at Mike’s Sky Ranch in Baja Mexico. I was about 9 or 10 years old and had wandered to the back door of the lodge. I stood at the door watching in awe as several ladies made corn and flour tortillas by hand. Eventually, one of them noticed me standing at the door and smiled. I must have looked hungry because she took a warm tortilla spread it with butter, rolled it up and handed it to me. I told her “gracias” (the only Spanish I knew at the time) and devoured the warm tortilla.

I didn’t know something as simple as a tortilla could taste so delicious. I managed to show up at the back door of the lodge every evening for the rest of our vacation. I always walked away with one or two warm buttered tortillas in my hand and a big smile on my face.Those sweet ladies from the lodge unknowingly taught me how incredible a homemade tortilla can taste. For years, I have craved the taste of light fluffy homemade tortillas. While on one of my oh so many regular trips to Costco I found TortillaLand tortillas in the refrigerator section. 

TortillaLand tortillas are uncooked and made with five simple ingredients, wheat/corn flour, water, canola oil, salt, and sugar. They fluff up when you cook them and have the fresh homemade taste and texture like the homemade tortillas I had years ago at Mike’s Sky Ranch. I’m hooked! I decided to create these Salted Chocolate Caramel Tortilla Chips as a special appetizer for this holiday season.
You can find out if your local Costco Club carries this product by visiting www.tortillafan.com and putting your zip code in the club finder. Additional recipes using TortillaLand tortillas from our fellow bloggers can also be found at Tortilla Fan.

Instructions for Salted Chocolate Caramel Tortilla Chips

Use star cookie cutters to cut tortilla into star-shaped chips. Using a fork to poke holes in each star tortilla.

Fry tortilla shapes in hot oil until golden brown. Place on paper towel and blot off excess oil. Cool completely.

Place flour tortilla starts on parchment or wax paper. Drizzle melted caramel over tortilla chips. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt. Drizzle melted chocolate over tortilla chips and sprinkle lightly with Sea Salt again.

Allow caramel and chocolate to cool completely before stacking on a plate or platter to avoid sticking.

Print

Salted Chocolate Caramel Tortilla Chips

Course Appetizer

Author Made From Pinterest

Ingredients

• 1 package Tortilla LandFlour Tortilla
• 1 bag caramels
• 1 tbsp water
• 8 oz chocolate chips
• Sea Salt

Instructions

• Cut TortillaLand Flour Tortillas out in 3 different sizes of star shapes.
  
• Fry in hot oil until golden brown. Drain excess oil off with paper towels.
  
• In a medium sauce pan melt 16 caramel squares with 1 tblsp water. Drizzle caramel over cooled tortilla chips.
  
• Sprinkle a small amount of sea salt over drizzled caramel before it hardens.
• Melt 8 oz chocolate chips and drizzle over tortilla chips.
  
• Sprinkle additional salt over melted chocolate.
• Allow to cool completely be for placing chips on a plate or platter so they will not stick together.

#tortillalandholiday #recipe #ad

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of TortillaLand. The opinions and text are all mine.

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The beloved PEANUTS gang are back! Charlie Brown, Patty, Snoopy, Woodstock, Linus, Schroeder, Sally and Pig-Pen have returned this holiday season in The PEANUTS Movie. I’m sure many of you I grew up like I did, watching Charlie and his friends in the Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas cartoon specials. The best part of the Sunday newspaper was reading and quoting the PEANUTS comic strip.

Nestle Crunch is celebrating their return in an array of fun whimsical treats adorned in festive holiday graphics. The holiday collection includes the NESTLÉ CRUNCH Gift Cardholder Bar this is perfect for a stocking stuffer. The oversized CRUNCH 1 lb. Candy Bar will surprise and delight candy lovers of any age.

Fill your decorative bowls with the NESTLÉ CRUNCH Jingles and NESTLÉ CRUNCH Miniatures.

Charlie Brown’s friend Lucy was known for saying “All you really need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” I have to admit I agree with Lucy on this one!

Quoting lines from favorite movies is something our kids have been doing for years. It won’t be long before they are quoting Charlie Brown’s most famous line, “Oh, Good Grief.”

I decided to celebrate the return of The PEANUTS gang by creating a new recipe, Peppermint Mousse Parfait Cups. They are a perfect holiday treat that you and the kids can whip up fast. Fluffy light peppermint mousse layered between crumbled NESTLE CRUNCH bars, topped with whip cream and a mini crunch bar. I think this is the kind of dessert Lucy would love!

Do you have a favorite quote from the PEANUTS gang? Share with us by leaving a comment below. OK, I can’t help it one more quote before I go.

“I think I’ve discovered the secret of life – you just hang around until you get used to it.” – Sally Brown

Print

Nestlé Crunch Peppermint Mousse Parfait

Course Dessert

Author Made From Pinterest

Ingredients

• For the crust
• ½ package Chocolate wafer cookies about 20 cookies
• 15 mini Nestlé Crunch candy bars chopped
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• For the filling
• 1 3- ounce box white chocolate instant pudding mix or 1 box french vanilla instant pudding or 1-ounce box sugar-free white chocolate instant pudding mix
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk or 2 cups for creamier mousse
• 1 8- ounce package cream <g class="gr_ gr_99 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_disable_anim_appear undefined Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="99" data-gr-id="99">cheese </g> softened to room temperature
• 1 3- ounce box instant cheesecake flavored pudding mix or 1-ounce box sugar-free cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix
• ½ teaspoon real peppermint extract do not use mint extract which is usually a combination of peppermint and spearmint
• 1 12- ounce container <g class="gr_ gr_95 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_disable_anim_appear undefined Grammar multiReplace" id="95" data-gr-id="95">frozen</g> whipped topping plus extra for garnish, if desired
• 1-2 drops of red food coloring optional
• Candy cane sticks Nestlé Crunch candy bars and crushed candy canes for garnish, if desired

Instructions

• Place the Nestlé Crunch candy bars and chocolate wafers in a food processor and pulse into fine crumbs. Add melted butter and pulse until combined.
  
• Spoon the crumbs into dessert cups of your choice. Place in refrigerator and prepare the mousse filling.
  
• Prepare the white chocolate pudding with the milk. Use 1 1/2 cups milk for thicker mousse, 2 cups for a thinner mousse. NOTE: Do not prepare the cheesecake pudding mix at this time. You will use it later in the recipe.
  
• Use a kitchen aid or standard mixer to beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy.
  
• Combine the dry cheesecake pudding mix, chilled prepared white chocolate pudding <g class="gr_ gr_159 gr-alert gr_gramm undefined Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="159" data-gr-id="159">mixture</g> and peppermint extract, beat until completely mixed. Be sure to scrape <g class="gr_ gr_146 gr-alert gr_gramm undefined Grammar only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="146" data-gr-id="146">down </g>the sides and bottom of <g class="gr_ gr_158 gr-alert gr_gramm undefined Grammar only-ins doubleReplace replaceWithoutSep" id="158" data-gr-id="158">bowl</g> to ensure all ingredients are mixed fully.
  
• Use a wire whisk attachment on slow speed to gently fold in the whipped talking. Add one drop of pink or red food coloring for light pink mousse, 2 drops for a darker pink mousse.
  
• Place mixture in <g class="gr_ gr_154 gr-alert gr_gramm undefined Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="154" data-gr-id="154">refrigerator</g> for one hour to chill.
  Use a spoon, pastry bag or ziplock bag with a large tip to top mousse on the crumb crust. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  
• When ready to serve top with additional whipped topping, crushed candy canes and crushed Nestlé Crunch mini candy bars.

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You can almost always find at least one canister of Progresso Bread Crumbs in my pantry. I usually buy two canisters, to make sure I never run out. Throwing a meal together is easier and faster when I have bread crumbs on hand.

Three of our five children are in college, and we have one married daughter. When the kids come home for the holidays, guess what they want the most? Mom’s home cooking and lots of it! Their requests for favorite recipes start coming in about a week or two before they come home. The anticipation for their favorite recipes is half the fun. Getting a text from one (or several of the kids) once they are on the road confirming their favorite recipe is on the menu is a normal occurrence!

We have given up offering to take our kids out to dinner on their visits home because they decline the offer every time. I don’t mind all the cooking; I cherish the time spent as a family enjoying each others company and creating memories at mealtimes. Leftovers, when we have them, are packed up and put in a cooler then taken back to college to be devoured later!

Recipe requests for the Christmas break have already started. I can’t wait for my crew to try this Macaroni and Cheese when they are home for the Christmas holidays. I know it will be a new favorite because it tastes incredible and makes enough to feed my family of seven and still have leftovers. I’m always looking for new recipe ideas, I’d love to hear about some of your favorite recipes using bread crumbs!

Print

Macaroni and Cheeses

Ingredients

• 1 cup Progresso Bread Crumbs
• 2 lbs elbow macaroni
• 12 eggs
• 1 cup cubed Velveeta cheese
• 1/2 lb butter 2 sticks
• 6 cups half and half
• 4 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese Reserve one cup for topping.
• 2 cups extra sharp white cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated asiago cheese
• 1 cup grated gruyere cheese
• 1 cup grated monterey jack cheese
• 1 cup grated muenster cheese
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  
• Spray a 9x13 pan with non-stick cooking spray.
  
• In a large sauce pan bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until it is al dente (about 9 to 10 minutes); drain and set aside to keep warm.
  
• Combine the Velveeta, butter, and 2 cups of the half and half in a large bowl. Add the drained warm macaroni until the Velveeta is melted.
  
• Wisk the eggs in a large bowl until frothy.
  
• Mix the remaining half and half with the frothy eggs.
  
• Add the egg, half and half and remaining grated cheeses, salt and pepper. Mix until completely combined.
  
• Pour half the mixture into the 9X13 baking dish, sprinkle 1/2 cup of the Progresso Bread Crumbs.
  Add remaining macaroni mixture and top with 1/2 cup of Progresso Bread Crumbs.
  Bake for 30 minutes. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup of yellow cheddar cheese and bake until golden brown on top, about 30 minutes more.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Progresso The opinions and text are all mine.

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Even though this recipe was chosen carefully, I knew my families first response to a different kind of lasagna would be skeptical at best or full retaliation at worst. Classic lasagna is an all round family favorite, it is always requested for birthday dinners and special occasions, we even made it for Christmas dinner one year. My crew is serious about their love of classic lasagna!

It was no surprise when I placed a big pan of White Chicken Lasagna on the table that I heard moans of disappointment. Followed by “what is this”? “where is your regular lasagna recipe”?  “there’s no such thing as White Chicken Lasagna”!  “If this is terrible do we have to eat it”? (outside of rare exceptions the answer is always yes.)

I ignored their questions and quietly placed some White Chicken Lasagna on each of their plates and waited.  A few moments later I heard “this is great” “I can’t believe how good this is”  “Mom you should definitely make this again.” It’s not often a new recipe is met with rave reviews from every single person in my family. The question now is which lasagna will get requested the most?

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White Chicken Lasagna Gluten Free

Author Mommy I'm Hungry

Ingredients

• 2 12 oz cans evaporated milk
• 1 1 oz pkg. Any Gluten Free Dry Ranch Salad Dressing (not the dip blend)
• 3 C. cubed cooked, chicken (about 2 large chicken breasts)
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• 2-3 C. uncooked gluten free penne or lasagna pasta
• 1 C cheddar <g class="gr_ gr_75 gr-alert gr_gramm Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="75" data-gr-id="75">cheese </g> grated
• 1 C mozzarella <g class="gr_ gr_74 gr-alert gr_gramm Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="74" data-gr-id="74">cheese </g> grated
• 1/2 Gluten free breadcrumbs
• 1/4 Green onions

Instructions

• Spray a 9x13 baking dish. Cook pasta until about 2 minutes under regular cook time (probably about 5-6 minutes). Drain, add to <g class="gr_ gr_76 gr-alert gr_gramm Grammar only-ins doubleReplace replaceWithoutSep" id="76" data-gr-id="76">prepared</g> dish.
• Combine evaporated milk, Ranch dressing and pepper in a <g class="gr_ gr_72 gr-alert gr_spell ContextualSpelling multiReplace" id="72" data-gr-id="72">3 quart</g> heavy saucepan. Bring it just to a boil then lower heat, stirring frequently until dry ingredients are dissolved. Simmer, uncovered, 25 minutes, stirring frequently. <g class="gr_ gr_69 gr-alert gr_gramm Grammar multiReplace" id="69" data-gr-id="69">Sauce</g> will thicken slightly.
• Layer pasta, chicken, sauce, and cheese into <g class="gr_ gr_73 gr-alert gr_gramm Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="73" data-gr-id="73">dish</g>. Bake uncovered at 350' for 25 minutes or until hot golden brown and bubbly. Remove lasagna from oven and sprinkle 1/2 cup gluten free bread crumbs on lasagna, return to oven and brown the bread crumbs for 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle 1/4 cup green onions before serving.
• Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Adapted from Mommy I'm Hungry

More recipes to try at Made From Pinterest!

Carmelita’s

Restaurant Steak

Baked Parmesan Tilapia

The post White Chicken Lasagna Gluten Free appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

DIY Kids Christmas Tree Ornament You are going to LOVE creating these DIY Kids Christmas Tree Ornaments! This is a quick and easy craft for you and your kids, you can make 7-10 trees in under an hour. Make your tree unique by using different paint colors and embellishments, the possibilities are endless. They cost pennies to make and will look darling on any Christmas tree!”
Mom would always catch me before too much damage was done and would send me on my merry way. We would wake up the next morning to a beautifully decorated tree!

These Craft Stick Christmas Tree Ornaments are darling and a quick easy craft that requires little or no patience!

Feel free to use the supplies listed below or decorate the Christmas with any craft items of your choice. They would also be fun when decorated with fruit loops cereal, gummy Bears, popcorn, yarn etc.

Supplies 

Jumbo Size Craft Sticks
2 mm Jute, 20lb by Bead Landing
Turf Green Paint from DecoArt Multi -Surface Satin Paint
Emerald Green Paint from DecoArt Ultra Fine Green Glitter Paint
White Fuzzy Sticks (pipe cleaners)
Sparkling White Fuzzy Sticks (pipe cleaners)
Yellow Scrapbook Paper
Brown Striped or Corrugated Scrapbook Paper
Scissors
Glue Gun and Glue Sticks

Embellishments
Coarse Glitter White by Martha Stewart
Paper Christmas Tree Jolee’s Boutique Embellishments
White Sugar Pearls by Wilton
Sprinkles White Sparkling Sugar by Wilton
Big Bag of Buttons from Favorite Findings 3.5 oz I

Instructions 

Figure out how many trees you are going to make, you will need 3 jumbo size craft sticks per tree. Paint your sticks the desired color, allow them to dry thoroughly.

Make a triangle with 3 sticks, gently lift up a corner and apply a small dab of hot glue, press down gently until the glue cools. Repeat the process with the other two corners of the triangle.

Glue your star and tree trunk on next.

Time to glue on an ornament hanger and buttons onto your tree.

We would love to hear one of your favorite Christmas memories! Please feel free to share one in a comment below.

Happy Holidays,

We are excited to be linking this post to Creative Family Fun and Simply Designing!

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When we were kids, my Uncle Dean (my Dad’s brother) would join us for Thanksgiving and Christmas day dinners when he wasn’t sailing around the world. He was an avid traveler and listening to him share stories about his latest adventures around the globe is a favorite memory of mine. It is not however my favorite memory of Uncle Dean.

My favorite memory was marveling at his ability to eat the largest amounts of food is the shortest amount of time. Whenever he was home for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, he would eat three times as much food as anyone at the table and be done eating before we even thought about having seconds.

When it came time for dessert to my utter amazement, Uncle Dean would put down several servings of pie. Followed by multiple large pieces of my Mom’s famous fudge.Uncle Dean always said traveling halfway around the world to be home with his family and to enjoy my Mom’s cooking was worth the trip!

Who knows maybe one of your grandchildren will gobble up their Rice Krispie Drumstick faster than my Uncle Dean could

Print

Rice Krispie Turkey Drumsticks

Author Adapted by This Grandma is Fun

Ingredients

• 6 pretzel rods
• White melting chocolate
• Mini marshmallows
• 2 Tbsp. butter
• 6 C. Cocoa Krispies or Cocoa Pebbles cereal

Instructions

• Break your pretzel rods in half. Scratch off salt from pretzel rods.
• Melt white chocolate and place one or two mini marshmallows on <g class="gr_ gr_47 gr-alert gr_gramm Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="47" data-gr-id="47">end</g> of <g class="gr_ gr_48 gr-alert gr_gramm Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="48" data-gr-id="48">pretzel</g> rod, dip pretzel rod with mini marshmallow in melted white chocolate. Place on wax paper to set.
• When pretzel rods have fully hardened melt butter and marshmallows in <g class="gr_ gr_51 gr-alert gr_gramm Grammar only-ins doubleReplace replaceWithoutSep" id="51" data-gr-id="51">large</g> saucepan. Stir in rice <g class="gr_ gr_50 gr-alert gr_gramm Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="50" data-gr-id="50"><g class="gr_ gr_53 gr-alert gr_spell ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="53" data-gr-id="53">krispies</g>,</g> turn <g class="gr_ gr_49 gr-alert gr_gramm Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="49" data-gr-id="49">heat</g> on low. Butter your hands and scoop about 1/2 cup of rice <g class="gr_ gr_54 gr-alert gr_spell ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="54" data-gr-id="54">krispies</g>. Shape into drumstick around the pretzel round. Place on wax paper to cool.

Notes

Adapted from Mommy Savers

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This year all of our children and two granddaughters will be home for Christmas. The last thing I want is to spend large amounts of time in the kitchen preparing complicated recipes. I want to spend as much time as I possibly can enjoying our kids and spoiling my granddaughters beyond reason. My list of fun holiday activities to do grows longer every day!

My goal this year is to find delicious recipes that are quick and easy to make. My family is going to love this Rosemary and Cranberry Cheese Ball. I’m a big fan of sweet dried cranberries, and I think just about anything tastes better with a little cream cheese. I was surprised to find the recipe calls for garlic salt. The combination of the garlic salt, rosemary and pecans give this spread a rich, robust flavor.

Serve this spread with bagel chips or your favorite crackers, it’s a great addition to any celebration or perfect for a decadent afternoon snack!

You can also find us on Pinterest │ Facebook │ Twitter │ Instagram │ StumbleUpon │ Hometalk

Print

Rosemary and Cranberry Cheese Ball

Course Appetizer

Author Adapted by Made From Pinterest

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream <g class="gr_ gr_55 gr-alert gr_gramm Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="55" data-gr-id="55">cheese </g> softened
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 tablespoons dried sweetened cranberries
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
• fresh cracked pepper and kosher salt
• 1 to 1 1/2 roughly chopped pecans

Instructions

• In a medium mix cream cheese, garlic powder, dried sweetened cranberries, rosemary, <g class="gr_ gr_52 gr-alert gr_gramm Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="52" data-gr-id="52">salt</g> and pepper.
• Serve with crackers or toasted baguette slices.

Notes

Recipe adapted from Life's Ambrosia

 Enjoy more fantastic appetizer recipes at Made From Pinterest!

Bacon Wrapped Tater Tot Bombs

Mississippi Sin Dip

Pineapple and Ham Cheese Ball

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Surprise your kids this holiday season with a fun dessert that looks like dinner! Instead of a piece of pie, put out a plate of Rice Krispie Turkey Drumsticks and watch them disappear!

I can’t believe that Thanksgiving is a little over a month away! Just thinking about a turkey dinner with all the trimmings makes my mouth water! It’s true I love the indulgent, gluttony of eating too much wonderful food in a day.

Then there are the leftovers that stretch out for the next week or so. The best turkey sandwich is the one you eat a couple days after Thanksgiving.

I love it when you open the fridge thinking the pie is all gone but upon further investigation, you find that one last piece of pie hiding behind the milk!

All joking aside, for me the best part of Thanksgiving is the opportunity to count my blessings while surrounded by my family and friends. I hope your year has been as rich and full as ours has!

Print

Rice Krispie Turkey Drumsticks

Course Desserts

Author Tracy

Ingredients

• 6 pretzel rods
• White melting chocolate
• Mini marshmallows
• 2 Tbsp. butter
• 6 C. Cocoa Krispies or Cocoa Pebbles cereal

Instructions

• Break your pretzel rods in half. Scratch off salt from pretzel rods.
• Melt white chocolate and place one or two mini marshmallows on end of pretzel rod, dip pretzel rod with mini marshmallow in melted white chocolate. Place on wax paper to set.
• When pretzel rods have fully hardened melt butter and marshmallows in large saucepan. Stir in rice krispies, turn heat on low. Butter your hands and scoop about 1/2 cup of rice krispies. Shape into drumstick around the pretzel round. Place on wax paper to cool.

Notes

Recipe adapted byMommy Savers

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I’m ready to wear warm fall clothing and start enjoying the all of the wonderful flavors of fall recipes.

Apple cider is a popular favorite around our house on chilly days. I knew apple cider cookies fresh out of the oven would be just as popular.

The original recipe doesn’t call for walnuts with caramel drizzled over them. The cookies taste amazing without it, but I couldn’t pass up going for a cookie that tastes like a caramel apple!

Adding the walnuts and caramel makes these cookies the perfect fall treat! My family LOVED them, the whole batch disappeared in a day.

Enjoy!

Print

Apple Caramel Cookies

Course Cookie, Dessert

Author Adapted by Made From Pinterest

Ingredients

• 1 cup softened butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 7.4 oz. box Alpine Spiced Apple Cider Instant Original Drink Mix
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 14 oz. bag Kraft Caramels

Instructions

• Use a medium bowl to whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside for later.
• Use an electric mixer on medium speed to mix butter, sugar, brown sugar, and all ten packs of apple cider, continue mixing until fluffy. About two three minutes.
• In a separate bowl beat eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla to the butter mixture.
• On a low speed add flour mixture in three portions, mixing each just until incorporated.
• Refrigerating the cookie dough for 1 hour will make forming the dough into balls easier, it is not required but recommended.
• Take an unwrapped caramel and place it into 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough that has been rolled into a ball. Seal the cookie dough all around the caramel square, flatten slightly and place on parchment lined cookie sheet.
• Bake in over at 350 degrees F for 12-14 minutes, be careful not to over bake. Remove from oven as soon as you notice the cookies start to brown along the edges. The bottom of these cookies burn easily.
• Slide the parchment paper and cookies off the cookie sheet directly onto your counter. Allow cookies to partially cool on parchment paper. Twist cookies off the parchment paper and allow them to finish cooling upside down,

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Sometimes the simple things in life are the best. This Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Spread is case in point! It is ridiculously simple to make, only three ingredients are needed and it’s perfect for any occasion.

If you are like our family you are enjoying both the professional and collegiate football season. If we have a lot in common than you are also enjoying some great food while watching your favorite teams play. I like to have a good balance of sweet and savory options to eat while we cheer our team on and yell at the bad plays. It gets pretty loud at our house when a really close game is being played.

I also like recipes that can be put together fast, with common ingredients and that taste great. This Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Spread will take you no more than 5 minutes to make and about 5 minutes or less before all of it disappears. Seriously it will disappear right before your eyes in minutes! If you have a big crowd I suggest making a double batch.

Print

Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Spread

Author Adapted from She Wears Many Hats

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• caramel sauce homemade or store-bought
• toffee bits
• sliced apples pears, pretzels for serving

Instructions

• Place the cream cheese on a serving dish.
• Pour desired amount of caramel sauce over cream cheese.
• Top with generous amount of toffee bits and chopped peanuts if desired.
• Serve with sliced apples, sliced pears and pretzels.

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In an effort to help all of us to be prepared for any gift giving need (for yourself or someone else!) LivingSocial Shop is giving YOU a gift of $5 towards any purchase of your choice! Click here to use your $5 gift!

LivingSocial Shop is the place where you can shop for more than beauty, fashion gadgets, home goods and jewelry. You can also purchase online educational courses, educational toys and health/workout classes all at deeply discounted prices.

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After my daughter’s surgery I brought her home from the hospital, gave her some pain medication and settled her in to rest and recover. Pain meds for her, cookie for me. A few minutes later I heard my husband rinsing something out in our laundry room sink. When I asked him what he was doing his answer was…”Oh, just cleaning up.”. He then made a valiant effort to nonchalantly walk into the kitchen. I immediately noticed a very large area of road rash on his elbow and blood running down his leg from a 1/2 inch gash on his shin.  I looked at him and said “you have got to be kidding me” and burst out laughing. He couldn’t resist and started laughing as well. I decided I NEEDED cookie before cleaning and dressing he wounds.

Why would we find this so funny? Because my husband and son had just completed a 3,000 mile (coast to coast) ride on their newly purchased Harley Davidson motorcycles. They managed this without either of them getting hurt. Not a single scratch or bruise. They would tell you it is because of their excellent riding skills; I say it is because I prayed for their safety 24/7 until they made it safely home! We both found it ironically funny that he sustained injuries on his Harley due to a malfunction while pulling out of our driveway and onto our street!

Turns out my sweet hubby got more than the road rash on his elbow and a cut on his shin. A few hours later my daughter (groggy from her pain meds) asked me if I was aware that “Dad” had also hurt his leg and knee. Pain medication is like truth serum for her, so keeping Dad’s secret wasn’t going to happen. A trip to urgent care revealed a possible hairline fracture in his Tibia and possibly a tear in his knee. After hearing this fabulous news, I skipped dinner and ate another cookie. Needless to say I have been busy nursing both of them back to good health. The next 48 hours went something like this, pain medication for patient 1, cookie for me. Pain medication for patient #2, cookie for me.

How many cookies did I eat in a 48 hour period of time?  Hard to say, I stopped counting after the first 24 hours! Seriously, they are divine! I can’t wait to make and share them with friends and family this holiday season.

Print

Gingersnap Cookie Recipe

Course Dessert

Author Made From Pinterest

Ingredients

• 2 cups sugar
• 1-1/2 cups canola oil
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 4 cups flour
• 4 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  
• In a large mixing bowl combine the sugar, canola oil, eggs and molasses
  
• In a separate bowl mix the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger and salt.
  
• Add and throughly mix the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
  
• Shape cookie dough into walnut-sized balls, roll in sugar and place on cookie sheet.
  
• Bake at 350 degrees for 7-9 minutes. These cookies are easy to over bake, be sure to check them at 7 minutes!
• Allow to completely cool and then dip cookies halfway into melted white, bittersweet or milk chocolate.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Save

The post Gingersnap Cookie Recipe appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

One of our friends at our BBQ has a darling 3 year old little boy. After eating 2 Buckeye Candy Balls his mom told him “no more”! Two  just wasn’t enough for for the little guy. He pulled every trick he could think of to have another one. Including standing right next to dessert table and giving us the cutest grin ever. It worked. We caved, gave him one more and moved the Buckeyes out of his range.

I am married to peanut butter chocolate addict! Give my hubby a choice of candy and he will choose a peanut butter chocolate combination every time. I decided to make some Buckeye Candy knowing he would love it. I chose this particular recipe from  One Hundred Eggs because it includes Rice Krispies.

I’m a texture person when it comes to my treats and adding Rice Krispies makes these Buckeyes so much better!

Enjoy!

Print

Buckeye Candy Balls

Author Adapted by Made From Pinterest

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter well softened
• 2 cups smooth peanut butter do nut use organic or natural
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 16 ounce box powdered sugar
• 3 cups puffed rice cereal such as Rice Krispies (optional)
• 1 pound coating chocolate
• Directions:

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl cream the butter and peanut butter until smooth.
  
• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mix well.
  
• Add and mix the rice krispies to the peanut butter mixture.
  
• Refrigerate for 1 hour.
  
• Scoop 1 to 1 1/2 tsp of the peanut butter and form into balls.
  
• Refrigerate of 15 minutes.
  
• Dip peanut butter balls into melted chocolate and place on wax paper.
  
• Chill until ready to serve.
  

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Learning how to use Yummly is easy! Here is a quick tutorial to get you stared.

Signing up For Yummly

Head on over to Yummly and create your account using the green box on the right of the site.

Sign up using your Facebook, Google or email account.

Be sure to fill out your profile – you can find it in the upper right hand corner. It will be a drop down box with your name on it. If you want a your photo to your profile you can fill out this form.

Bookmarklet

When you are done signing up you will want to install the Yummly bookmarklet on your browser. The bookmarklet can be found under the + in the upper right side of the site. If you want step by step instructions they can be found here.

How to Yum

Now you get to have fun! Whenever you are on a blog or website and you find a recipe you like, Yum the recipe by clicking on the Yum bookmarklet in your browser.

It will open a pop-up window that will add the recipe to your recipe box. It will tell you when it is done adding the recipe. you can then view the recipe and categorize by adding it to a collection of your choice.

Yummly Search

Yummly allows you to filter your results so you can find exactly what you want. Start by checking your diet preferences, allergies, favorite cuisines and your cooking skill level. Next make of list of ingredients/foods you do not like, this will exclude recipes with these ingredients in your search. You can also filter by holiday celebrations, nutrition, brands of ingredients, the source site of the recipe, cooking techniques, or how recently the recipe was added. Save your preferences and you are ready to go!Once you find your recipe, you will see links to the original recipe, nutritional information, taste rating, tags and more.

Join us on Yummly, we would love to have you add our recipes to your collection!

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How do you make something as good as fresh berries taste even better? Make delicious deviled berries!

Just like deviled eggs the key to success is all about the filling!

The filling is made with whipping cream, cream cheese, sour cream and a bit of lemon juice. The final touch is created by sprinkling crushed graham crackers over the filling and berries. The hint of lemon in the filling is the perfect companion with to any berry. My family DEVOURED every berry in one sitting! Thank you Teri and Jenny from Spoon Fork Bacon for the awesome recipe.

This Pin Rocks!

Print

Deviled Berries

Author Adapted by Made From Pinterest

Ingredients

• 1 8 ounce package of cream cheese, softened
• 2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons superfine sugar
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1 lemon zested
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
• 16 large strawberries tops cut and split in half lengthwise
• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs

Instructions

• Place room temperature cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla in a medium mixing bowl. Beat together with an electric mixer, until smooth.
• Scrape down sides of the bowl and set aside.
• In another chilled mixing bowl with use an electric mixer to beat the cream until stiff peaks form.
• Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
• Slice the backs of each strawberry, every so slightly, so they sit up straight. Using a small measuring spoon or melon baller, carefully hollow the inner center of each strawberry.
• Fill a piping bag or Zip Loc bag (fitted with a star tip) with the cream cheese mixture and pipe into each cut strawberry, raspberry and blueberry.
• Finish each with a sprinkle of crushed graham cracker crumbs and serve.

The post Deviled Berries Recipe appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

Authentic Hungarian Pinwheels

Sugar Crusted Lemon Cookies

Cream Cheese Lemon Cookie Bars

Mini Peanut Butter Chocolate Tarts

Fresh Blueberry Hand Pies

Layered Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars

Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Low Carb Key Lime Bars

Fresh Berry Dessert

World’s Best Cinnamon Rolls

Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies

No Bake Chewy Cookies and Cream Bars

Paula Deen’s Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Glazed Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Raspberry Tiramisu

Mascarpone Fruit Filled Pizzelle Cups

Irresistible Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Mousse Parfaits

Cheesecake Bites Recipe

Rhubarb Apple Pie

Indoor Smoreos

Strawberry Orange Banana Popsicles

Chocolate Pudding Poke Cake

Roasted Rice Krispie Treats

Mini Key Lime Pies

Individual Mini Baked Alaska Ding Dongs

Moist Lemon Cake Recipe

Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cake

Girl Scout Thin Mint Cookies

Gingerbread Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Lemon Icebox Pies

Cherry Cheesecake Dip with Cinnamon Pie Dippers

Brownie Swirl Chocolate Chip Cookies

Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

Peanut Butter Cookie Cheesecake Bars

Soft Lofthouse Style Sugar Cookies

Banana Crumb Cake

Peanut Butter Brownies

Chocolate Italian Cake

Strawberry Cookies with White Chocolate

Cherry Bars

Almond Joy Cupcakes

Glazed Lemon  Sugar Cookies

Coconut Crispy Balls

Chocolate Turtle Pie

White Chocolate Covered Cherries

Rockin’ Raspberry Bread Pudding

Nutella Pie Bites

Raw Salted Caramel Apple Pie

Oatmeal Raisin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Two Two Easy Peach Cobbler

Jello Shave Ice

Microwave Salted Caramels

Cookies and Cream Cake In A Mug

Rhubarb Dump Cake

Copycat Cosmic Brownies

Easy Blender Lemon Curd

 Million Dollar Bars

Coconut Cream Cheese Truffles

Easy Brownies For Two

Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

Red Velvet Blondies

Crazy Cake

White Chocolate Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies 

 Peanut Butter Pumpkin Cookies

Baklava Cookies

Chocolate Sauce

Peach Crisp In A Jar

Salted Caramel Brownies

Easy Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

 White Trash Bars

Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

Watermelon Cupcakes

Baked Peaches and Cream

Deviled Berries

Salted Caramel Chocolate Pillows

Rice Krispies Mint Chip Crunch Cake

Campfire Eclairs

Root Beer Float Cookies

Coconut Cream Cheese Cake

Chocolate Dipped Oreos

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Sandwich Cookies

Oreo Layer Cake

Lemon Berry Trifle with Lemon Curd Whipped Cream

Ritz Rolo Sandwich Cookies

This awesome post has been shared with Home Stories A to Z

The post Dessert Recipes Easy appeared first on TGIF - This Grandma is Fun.

I.

Love.

Lemons.

These Lemon Curd Muffins are going to make my fellow lemon luvrs extremely happy. I know this because I am a luvr of all things lemon and these muffins brought me great joy! Actually here at MFP we love the tangy sweet flavor of lemons so much we have created 14 of the best lemon recipes around. If you don’t want to get your lemon on with these amazing muffins, try one of  the other 14 lemon recipes!

Lemon cookies? Gotcha covered with Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies, Cream Cheese Lemon Bar Cookies and Chewy Lemon Cookies Glazed, Change up a classic and try Lemon Rice Krispies! Lemon curd? Ooh yes! You have to try Lemon Berry Trifle with Lemon Curd Whip Cream, Lemon Curd Tarts and Easy Blender Lemon Curd.

How about some lemon pancakes and bread. Then Strawberry Lemon Poppyseed Pancakes, Lemon Blueberry Poundcake and Glazed Lemon Zucchini Bread will be your new favorites.

What about the classics like lemon cake and pie. Well of course we have a recipe for each, Lemon Ice Box Pies and Moist Lemon Cake. No we couldn’t and didn’t forget….lemonade. Have the kids make a lemonade stand and they will make a fortune selling these two recipes Frozen Raspberry Lemonade and Lemonade Tycoon Freshly Squeezed Lemonade,

They are light and fluffy, the lemon curd has just the right amount of sweet to tart flavor ratio. The grated lemon rind on the lemon curd and sprinkling of powdered sugar over the muffin tops make them look like they came from a bakery. These Lemon Curd Muffins are currently my favorite lemon recipe!

Print

Lemon Curd Muffins

Ingredients

• 1 Box Gluten Free King Arthur Muffin Mix
• 1 10 oz Jar lemon curd
• 1/4 cup lemon curd - to be added into muffin mix before baking.
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar -
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup grated lemon rind

Instructions

• Follow directions on the King Arthur Muffin mix to make muffins, then add 1/4 cup of lemon curd to the muffin mix.
  Bake as directed. Allow to cool completely.
  Dig out a small hole in the top of each muffin and fill with lemon curd.
  Sprinkle suger over the edges of the muffin tops.
  Sprinkle grated lemon rind over the lemon curd. Serve and enjoy!

14 Additional yummy lemon recipies!

Cream Cheese Lemon Bar Cookies

Lemon Blueberry Poundcake

Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies

Moist Lemon Cake

Easy Blender Lemon Curd

Lemon Ice Box Pies

 Glazed Lemon Sugar Cookies

Lemon Berry Trifle with Lemon Curd Whip Cream

Strawberry Lemon Poppyseed Pancakes

Glazed Lemon Zucchini Bread

Lemon Curd Tarts

Frozen Raspberry Lemonade

Lemonade Tycoon Freshly Squeezed Lemonade

Lemon Rice Krispies!

This awesome post has been shared with Home Stories A to Z

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I have her recipe and I’ve made it many times. Alas, no matter how hard I try, they never turn out as good as hers! Seriously, among our circle of friends Lisa is famous for her Lemon Bars. What’s a girl to do? Scour Pinterest for a new lemon bar recipe.

Oh man, these Cream Cheese Lemon Bar Cookies from Girl.Inspired do not disappoint. I was surprised to find these bars are made with lemon cake mix. I had them in the oven in about 10 minutes!

The textures of the flaky crust and crumbled topping combined with the creamy lemon filling have made them a new family favorite. If you are a luvr of lemon these bars are a must!

Print

Cream Cheese Lemon Cookie Bars

Ingredients

• pkg. lemon cake mix I use Betty Crocker.
• 2 eggs 1 for crumble mixture, 1 for cream cheese mixture
• ⅓ C. vegetable oil
• ⅓ C. sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon peel
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 8- oz. package cream cheese softened

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
• Mix 1 egg, vegetable oil and 1 package of dry cake mix until crumbly.'
• Keep 1 cup of the crumbly mixture and set aside.
• Pat the rest of the mixture into a 9 X 13 inch baking pan. Bake for 12 minutes.
• In a different bowl mix together soft cream cheese, 1 egg, sugar, lemon peel and lemon juice.
• Beat until fluffy and smooth.
• Spread softened cream cheese mixture evenly over the baked crumbly mixture.
• Sprinkle the rest of the reserved crumbly mixture over the softened cream cheese mixture.
• Bake 15 minutes longer or until crumbly mixture starts to turrn light golden brown.
• Remove from oven, allow to cool completely. Cut into bars, serve and enjoy.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• Mix 1 package of dry cake mix, 1 egg, and vegetable oil until blended and crumbly.
• Reserve 1 cup of crumbly mixture; set aside.
• Pat remaining mixture into a 13 x 9 in. baking pan and bake for 12 minutes.
• In separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, 1 egg, sugar, lemon peel, and lemon juice.
• Beat until smooth and fluffy.
• Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over baked crumble mixture.
• Sprinkle reserved crumble mixture over the top of cream cheese layer.
• Bake 15 minutes longer or until crumb topping is just beginning to brown.
• Allow to cool completely, cut into bars, and eat up!!

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