snacks & the city

Two Pumpkins Cookies for the Price of One!

2010-11-06T17:21:00.001-05:00

In my opinion, pumpkin is delicious. So in the last few weeks, I made two different kinds of pumpkin cookies. One was an old recipe from Real Simple and one was from JoytheBaker. Both were yummy, but this time my vote goes to Real Simple. Reasons being, I am not really a soft cookie kind of gal and secondly, I don't want my pumpkin flavor to be overpowered by sweetness. I found the cookie from Joy was a bit too sweet (maybe it was the addition of butterscotch chips) and just too soft. But do not be put off by these large cookies, the crowd went wild for these and did not take my side on either the sweetness or softness factors. So, you be the judge.

Enjoy the season and my your fall be filled with cider, pumpkin, and love.

Pumpkin Cream Sandwiches
From: Real Simple November 2007


They look like min-hamburgers, don't they?

I have wanted to try this recipe for a long time and finally did thanks to the extra pumpkin in the fridge and a impromptu party. People enjoyed them, making me wish I made a double-batch.

Ingredients:
3 Tbsp unsalted butter; room temperature
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 egg
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/4 tsp salt
2/3 cup cream cheese; room temperature
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup confectioners' sugar

Heat over to 350 degrees

Beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in an electric mixer until smooth. Add the pumpkin, vanilla, and egg and beat until combined.

Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a medium bowl. Slowly add the flour mixture to the sugar/butter mixture and beat on medium-low speed until fully Incorporated.

Spoon heaping tablespoons of the mixture 2 inches apart (about 9 on a pan) onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake until puffed and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes.

Clean the mixer, as the cookies bake, and beat the cream cheese, heavy cream, and confectioners' sugar until smooth and spreadable.

Spread the flat sides of the half cooled cookies with the cream and top with the remaining cookies.

*Jenny note: I use apple pie spice because that's all I had, no complaints here. Secondly, I used a cookie scooper to make the cookies and they came out a little more perfect and less organic then if I used just a regular spoon. Just so you know. Lastly, I dusted mine with powdered sugar for looks.*

Makes 12 cookie sandwiches.

--:--
Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies
From: Joy the Baker

Ok so people liked these, but I think they look like aliens, were SUPER soft, and SUPER sweet. If you're into any of those things (aliens included) you may love these. The recipe is linked above to JoytheBaker. She's awesome and you should read her blog and make her food. Yummy stuff ladies and gents.

Hope this finds you well!

Happy Birthday, Court!

2010-11-03T06:56:00.000-05:00

Today is my dear friend Courtney's birthday! We are just one day a part and I love her so much! This girl has been such a gift of laughter, joy, and fun in my life! We have done so many fun things together; led WL camp together, gone on spring break together, traveled together, and just had really good times. She is one I will always carry in my heart.

Happy Birthday, my dear friend!

Happy Birthday, Suz!

2010-10-19T06:40:00.000-05:00

Happiest Birthday to my dear friend, Susan! What better way to come back from a 3 week blog lull than to celebrate Suz? She is a wonderful woman of God, compassionate friend, and strong presence. She is bright, warm, and caring. All in all, Susan is simply great.

Happy Birthday my far away friend!

Music on a Monday

2010-09-20T18:57:00.000-05:00

This week is the Pygmalion Festival in the great C-U. I was thinking out some of my favorite people I have seen at this festival and Andrew Bird came to mind. Now, if your name is Courtney and you went to this Pygmalion show with me and Mr. S, then you would remember it as an emotional day to say the least, but I have seen him other times and I was in a much better emotional state.

Andrew Bird is an Illinois-native and is a true musician. He has an incredible, fluid voice and is probably the best whistler in the musical world. He has a fascinating style and is a one-man band, playing violin, guitar, banjo, harmonica, and bevy of other strange instruments he brings with him. This Windy City man is interesting, haunting, and takes you from the loud world we often are a part of and brings you into a quiet state of swelling sound.

Check him out.

Oh and P.S., he looks and talks like my friend, Stephe. I have always wondered if they are one of those long-lost brother stories you see on 60 Minutes. Hmmm...

Music on a Monday

2010-09-13T19:19:00.000-05:00

This is Ray. I love him. Not like I love my husband, but I love him. He has music that can speak to my soul. I listen to him when I am happy or sad, on my birthday or worst day, rainy or sunny, and so many days and times in between. Ray is a man who sings from his soul and has a voice that is unlike many others. I discovered him on a soundtrack (A Lot Like Love) and instantly want to hear more from him. I remember listening to the soundtrack with my dear friend, Liz and then going out and buying his full album, Trouble. This was his debut and he has put out 2 other albums and recently an album with his bluegrass band, The Pariah Dogs. I have them all and had Mike and I not both fallen in love with Red Right Ankle by The Decemberists, I would have gone with a Ray song for our wedding dance.

Ray LaMontagne is such a wonderful and talented musician. Check out his albums Trouble, Till the Sun Goes Black, Gossip in the Grain, and most recently God Willin' & the Creek Don't Rise. The first three are just him and beautifully painful and the album with The Pariah Dogs is more upbeat and bluegrass.

Check out him out for sure and tell him I sent you :)

Three things I think are cool.

2010-09-12T09:27:00.000-05:00

1. I think my banana-blueberry muffins are cool.

I found these muffins on tastespotting from a blog called Sweet Tooth. She said that these muffins "might actually make an appropriate and semi-healthy breakfast". The thoughts that went through my brain were, "I like to bake, I like to eat, but I'm on a diet. These may fit meet all the following criteria and still satisfy my belly." So off to the store I and my students went (As a sidenote, I teach high school students with moderate to severe disabilities and we go into the community. Why not purchase some of your own items while these guys do the same? It only seems fair).

These have bananas and blueberries, whole-wheat flour, wheat germ (or flax seed), and all these other good for you things. The muffins are dense enough to last you through the morning, but still cakey so you'll actually want to eat it. The banana flavor was a bit pronounced, but I didn't mind that. I think they brought a nice amount of moistness to the muffin, that otherwise would have been missed. I also liked that they had a little bit of all purpose flour in them because sometimes too much whole wheat flour leaves your food feeling crumbly and dry. Overall these are winners and my whole family liked them :)

Her recipe says it makes 12, but I squeezed out 18, but from looking at her photos I think I skimped on filling the muffin tins. Oh well! It made for even distribution amongst the sibs, as they are the only ones who can regularly eat carbs.

Hit up Sweet Tooth for the recipe and note that I didn't have my wheat germ with me, so I used ground flax seed (I was at the 'rents house). They still had a heartiness and nice fiber content. So make these and start your day off right with a "semi-healthy" breakfast.

2. I think these cards are cool.
I went to Michael's yesterday because Mr. S wanted to play Madden at Best Buy. I asked to be dropped off, so I could meander through a craft store. Luckily, I had enough time to make it all the way to the $1 bins. I found these funny cards and bought several packs, but much to my surprise they are half-off! So, I bought 7 packs of 8 cards for $3.50. That was a bargain and these are hilarious.

3. I think my cat is cool.
Those of you cat-haters out there need not apply because my cat is cool. She is funny looking, fluffy, and so adorable. She loves spring and fall because we can leave the door open and there is no worries of air conditioning or heat. This is her, enjoy.

Cooking on a Saturday

2010-08-28T15:57:00.001-05:00

This is one of my favorite times of year. As teachers, we are hopeful and ready to begin "the best year yet", the weather is beautiful (windows open, yes please!), and I have a renewed sense of purpose and excitement. I just love the late summer/early fall and I think it loves me back.

In celebration of my good feelings, I made a few things this morning/afternoon to enjoy throughout the week. Make one if you are in need of good vibes, or already have them, these are yummy treats for both states of mind and body.

Really Easy Hummus
Adapted from The Best Recipe and The Moosewood Cookbook

2 cans of chickpeas (low sodium, usually organic)
2-3 cloves of minced garlic
1/2 cup tahini (usually cheapest at ethnic grocers)
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 of a bunch of cilantro
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
lemon juice, to taste

Put all of this into a blender or food processor, mix it up until you like the consistency and taste. If it is too thick or not blending well, add a little water, start with 1/4 cup and go from there.

Note to you: This makes a lot of hummus, so if it's just you or you don't want a ton cut this in half.

Second note to you: Try out different herbs and add-ins to spice this up. I usually make this with scallions and parsley, but this time did cilantro and extra lemon. What about some jalapenos? red peppers? sun-dried tomatoes? Try the base ingredients and then go from there.

Angel Food Cake
Found in Everyday Food Magazine

1 cup cake flour (spooned and leveled)
1/4 tsp salt
12 large egg whites (room temperature)
1 tsp cream of tartar
1 1/4 cup sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
2. Sift flour and salt into a bowl and set aside.
3. With a mixer, preferably a stand mixer with whisk attachment, beat the egg whites on med-high for 1 minute until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and beat until soft peaks form.
4. Continue to beat while adding sugar gradually and beat until stiff peaks form. Add the vanilla and beat until combined.
5. Sift the flour and salt over the egg white mixture. While turning the bowl, fold the flour into the egg whites by slicing your rubber spatula through the center and coming up the side. Continue until all the flour is fully combined.
6. Spoon the batter into an angel food cake pan, ungreased, and smooth the top. Run a knife through the batter to pop any bubbles.
7. Bake 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Cool while inverted, after 1 hour run a knife around the pan to release the cake and unmold.
9. Eat and enjoy with some fruit and whipped cream (make your own, take my word for it).

Another note to you: This is not a particularly easy recipe, but when you make your first 'perfect' angel food cake, you will be so proud of all your hard work and skill. Be proud of your mad baking skills, girlfriend.

My cake with spiced whipped cream.

Happy Birthday, Liz!

2010-08-17T06:00:00.001-05:00

My dear friend, Liz, is celebrating her birthday today! She and I have taken so many silly pictures together over the years and that is one of the things I love most about her. She brings light and laughter to my life and the lives of so many others as well. She is a wonderful friend and some one I will always carry in my heart no matter how close or far away we are. Loveyou LizFay.

Saturday, Egg Day

2010-08-14T14:23:00.001-05:00

I made an egg casserole today. It was good and I don't even like eggs.

I got up early today in order to be getting ready for the school year and promptly went to the Farmer's Market. The zucchinis looked good so I got a couple. I then used some tomatoes we received from a student's family and I made a zucchini-tomato and basil egg casserole found at Simply Recipes. She's a great cook and I truly enjoy her story and food. This casserole was not too egg-y tasting, could have been the 4 egg whites and 2 whole eggs I used, and had a delicious amount of veggies. I grated two zucchinis with a potato peeler, cubed 5 tomatoes, and used 15 leaves of basil. Instead of the grated parm, I used the green canister version (you know the kind) and it was still lovely. This tasty treat was consumed by Mike, Brendan, and myself and it meets the abs diet powerfoods guidelines. That was another very happy aspect!

As a sidenote- Mike, Brendan, Bob, and Tom are all playing with our friends Elsinore at their CD release show TONIGHT at the Canopy Club. Come out and support a great local band, my husband, and our friends. Oh and if you can't be there buy their album, it's great and Mike and I are on it.

Second sidenote- Two posts in two days?! I know, I really like blogging and should/will do more. It is good for the soul to do things you like.

Snack for you & Friend for me.

2010-08-13T09:16:00.001-05:00

Snack for you

Friend for me

I truly enjoy eating. As you can see from the roundness of my face, it is a true joy. That being said, Mr. S and I are trying (I'm trying my best, he is doing) to follow the abs diet by the editor of Men's Health, David Zinczenko. So, I am now truly banished from making and eating (just that combination) many a foods that have led to such a roundness in said face. But I love to cook and bake, what is a girl to do???

I make food for other people, take one small taste, and give it away. The small bite thing is a bummer, but making other people happy is a major plus, so it's kinda a win-win (according to my head, my stomach is another question).

I made this snack, Ultimate Snack Mix, for the secretaries at my new school. I wasn't necessarily trying to bribe them, but more butter them up, in both senses of the phrase. I found this recipe in the back of a Christmas Cookie magazine from 2007. I bought the magazine during my first year of teaching in Chicago when we were having a cookie exchange. I didn't know what to make, so I bought this in Jewel hoping to find inspiration. I went with an Ohio classic, the buckeye, but not without burning chocolate in my microwave first. Ever burnt chocolate in your microwave or anywhere for that matter? No? Well don't try it, it smells soooo bad and lingers for days. Anywho, I went through the magazine, pulled out the recipes that I liked and filed them away in the green book of magazine recipes. This one I tried subsequently after and have loved it ever since.

This tasty treat has lots of yummy carbs, golden raisins, worcestershire sauce, and garam masala! So good! Here's the recipe.

Ultimate Snack Mix: Fitness Magazine, Christmas Cookie 2007 (really?! Fitness magazine?!)

1.5 cups Rice Chex
1.5 cups Wheat Chex
1 cup pretzels, any shape
1 cup coarsely broken sesame rice crackers (instead I used Wasa crackers)
1 cup coarsely broken whole-wheat crackers
1/4 cup dry-roasted peanuts, lightly salted
3 Tbsp butter, melted
1 Tbsp worcestershire sauce
2 1/4 tsp sugar
2 1/4 tsp garam masala
1/4 tsp salt
1/3 cup golden raisins

1. Heat oven to 250 degrees.
2. Combine the first 6 ingredients in one bowl. Combine all the remaining ingredients except raisins in another bowl.
3. Pour the wet mixture over the cereal mixture.
4. Coat a roasting pan with spray and lay the now coated mixture on the pan in a single layer.
5. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring twice.
6. Cool on a wire rack and stir in raisins.

So now you got a snack and I get a friend. This is my friend, Emily, and her boyfriend, Scott. Emily was a TA in my classroom this year and we have become fast friends. Emily is so very smart and kind and I have loved spending this year with her. She is leaving our great town to go to grad school in St. Louis, so one day she can be an audiologist and better yet, Dr. Love. She is a lifer in my book and while it makes me sad that she is leaving, I know we have developed the kind of friendship that will last over distance, lost time, and phone calls. Best of luck and I will miss you my dear friend.

Why I love food.

2010-06-28T18:07:00.000-05:00

I love food. You must know it by now and if not, well there it is.
Food is truly the way to my heart.

Food is many things to many people, but to me, food is home.

Food can actually bring you home.

And it can make you feel like you're home.

Food brings people together that are making a home for themselves,

And it can also comfort those who are lost and without a home.

Food is for celebrating birthdays and holidays,

And for welcoming newest additions to the world!

Food brings the sense that you are in a safe place and space, to be who you want to be.

Food is home.

Home is where the heart is.

"When I speak of home I speak of the place where - in default of a better- those I love are gathered together; and if that place were a gypsy's tent, or a barn, I should call it by the same good nae notwithstanding." -Dickens

Hello..

2010-03-31T06:50:00.002-05:00

So I have a lot to tell you about (food, travel, life), but 6:50 am on a school morning isn't the time.

But, I found this and it made me think of my friend, Liz. She is so crafty and cool! She could totally make this mobile and will probably do so at sometime. Love her.

Ten on Tuesday

2010-03-09T20:38:00.004-06:00

1. I am really excited for spring break! We're going to Portland, OR and I cannot wait to see a new place, smell different air, and see a fabulous new city!

2. I have been on a granola kick lately. I made crunchy granola bars two weeks ago for my staff and last week I made chewy granola bars for the LOST watchers. Chewy is the way to go and I am almost always a crunchy texture fan. Try them out, you won't be disappointed!

3. I went to Chicago for a day this past weekend for a class at UIC and dinner with some friends. I love that city and NEED to get there more, it will be good for my soul.

4. My family is coming this weekend for a BIG harp recital. I am really looking forward to seeing them because I have been thinking about them a ton lately. I went through some of our wedding photos tonight and it makes me so joyful seeing my parents so happy together and with friends that day. Weddings are cool because they aren't just about the bride and groom but can be such a great day for so many others.

5. I'm running a 5k in Cincy in a couple of weeks and I am way out of shape. Dad, think KHS soccer open fields. It's not good!

6. I was invited to a book club by my friend and school speech pathologist, Melissa. I feel like that was a prayer being answered.

7. Speaking of prayers, while "running" today I was listening to Regina Spektor's album "Far". Listen to the lyrics of the song "Laughing With". It made me want to pray more, be less wish-washy in my faith, and look to God in good and bad. Music touches my soul.

8. Speaking of music, my brother's fabulous girlfriend, Stephanie, has a harp recital on Sunday at 5:30 in Smith Hall. If you're in Champaign and read this blog (small pool, I know), come. She is amazing and is just a cool girl! I would love for her to be my other sister :)

9. My current and only sister is cool. You should meet her.

10. My students are frickin' hillarious!

Bryan: Coming in from extra recess "Go to Mrs. S's room?"
Mrs. S: "Yes, but walk safely please."
Bryan: "Ok. Where my packpack?"
Mrs. S: "In your classroom"
Bryan: turns to Ms. Love, TA and wonderful person, "Ms. Love, get my packpack (flicks hand)"
Ms. Love: "Ummm ok" and sulks off
Mrs. S: looks at Bryan in SHOCK
Bryan: "Mrs. S, where my packpack? Ms. Love get it?"
Mrs. S: "So it seems, Bryan, so it seems."

Definitely not the most funny example of my day to day interactions, but that made me laugh today. While adults make me crabby and feel bad about myself, these kids will always make me smile. I truly am grateful for getting to work with kids everyday. They are the salt of this earth and the light of my life.

Good week dear friends.

Sunday Catch-Up

2010-02-28T14:57:00.004-06:00

Here are three items I have made within the last month.

1. Chocolate Mint Patty Cupcakes
I made these for our neighbors, Joel and Sarah, as well as Mike's co-workers. It was a recipe from the Food Network magazine and the flavors were modeled after a York Peppermint Patty. The cupcakes were moist and tasty. The making of the peppermint patty was so interesting. If my high school chemistry class was like this, I would have done WAY better! You put some ingredients into your mixer and all of a sudden they become tasty and edible playdough. So cool! Then I drizzled the chocolate glaze on top instead of making a chocolate disk (by instead, I mean I couldn't figure out how to make that work). P.S. Mikes co-worker, Besset, thought I put a York on top of the cupcake, that was an awesome compliment because I made them :)

2. Lime Meltaways
Martha and Me Cookie #16
For: Susan and Matt McAndrew

My dear friend Susan has been an acquaintance through YL, Bible Study friend, roommate, bridesmaid, and best friend. She is such a wonderful woman of God, loyal, smart, and kind. She is a kindred spirit in so many ways. Oh and I love her husband because he is a wonderful man and great friend. He is good to Suz and she is good to him. I just love them.

Susan is from Florida, so citrus flavors remind me of her. These cookies just said "Suz" to me. They were light, sweet, and tasty. I think I overmixed them, thus making them a little more cumbly than expected. That made them tough to roll into a log and consequently cut into pretty rounds. Luckily, you douse these in powdered sugar making any imperfections better. I was so glad to send these to the McA's in North Carolina as a special surprise and a congrats to Matt for rocking the DAT.

Can't wait until we can celebrate our very own
Dr. Matthew McAndrew DDS!

3. Cream Puffs with Lemon Cream

I saw these on tastespotting.com, a website Court turned me on to. They looked good and wanted a reason to make them. Luckily, we had an impromptu birthday dinner/party for our friend Brendan on Friday and I made these bad-boys. They were sooo good! They were light, not too sweet, and had a slight hint of lemon. Brendan said the lemon made them and I would agree.

Happy Birthday to our friend Brendan,
such a funny dude and great friend!

Ossie

2010-02-18T06:26:00.001-06:00

February 18- My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers

"Never let the sense of past failure defeat your next step."

best.

2010-02-13T17:43:00.005-06:00

This is my favorite picture of my best friend, Katie, and I. We were leaving for college weeks after this and had just cried in Fazoli's talking about being away from each other. I remember so clearly wanting to soak up our time together. She is a woman of integrity, faith, love, and joy. We met in 7th grade (thanks to GS) and became better friends as time went on. Today, I am proud to say we have survived high school, college (apart), marriage, and beginning careers. In short, she means the world to me.

The Lord has blessed my life with so many amazing friends; women and men that inspire me daily to be better, love more, and laugh lots. I am reminded that God is good when I look at the love my friends show me. Friends, I love you.

Ten on Tuesday

2010-02-09T16:07:00.006-06:00

1. Mike and I bought a new car! We bought a 2010 Mazda5. It has 6 seats, hatch, sliding doors, and is much nicer/more reliable. We are really excited and feel blessed to have made some financial decisions that have allowed us to make this feasible.

2. Don Juan turned 21 last week! I am proud to call this wonderful man my brother.

3. This is an awesome blog/website. What a fun and positive idea!

4. Our friends, Elsinore, have put out a new EP. You can hear Mike on trumpet and moi on track 5 with Ryan's wife. Jody. What a fun experience, great friends, and wonderful musicians!

5. I made two more Martha cookies in the last two weeks.
Cookie #14 Cappuccino-Chocolate Bites
For: Katharine Fettig and Jamie Icenogle (student-teacher last semester and this semester)

The LBS-1 program is very stressful and I thought both Ms. F and Ms. I could use a little pick-me-up. These yummy little guys had espresso in them and were sandwiched around a delicious milk chocolate ganache. I think I might try the milk chocolate ganache as a frosting. Yum! While the star cutter was a bad choice, these are winners.

Cookie #15 Dried Cr anberry Shortbread Hearts
For: Julie for Valentine's Day

I made these for a care package for Jules (Hope she doesn't read this before it gets there). They are sweet, crumbly, and just plain delicious. I used my heart cutter for that little touch and because Martha did too. I will definitely be making them again!

6. Mike played in the Great Cover-Up here in Champaign. He played with both the Mike Ingram Band and Kayla Brown. See the videos of him playing with Kayla here.

7. My students make me laugh, cry, smile, and feel special. That cry of "Mrs. S!" with a hug is unmatched by anything else.

8. Mike has been excited since December to do our taxes; he would make Susan proud!

9. BroomBowl 2010 happened last weekend and we had a great time! Stephanie joined Don, Mike, and I on our trip to meet mom and dad in Bridgeman, MI. We played some broomball on the more frozen pond. Some how Steph and I got mildly injured and Don and Mike came home only sore. Hmmm...

10. My cats are the cutest! They have smushy faces and fluffy fur.

Mini-cheesecake love

2010-01-23T15:10:00.001-06:00

For Christmas, Mike got me a mini-cheesecake pan. It looks like a mini-muffin pan, but has removable bottoms. I used my new cookbook (Thanks Tom&Sandy!), I Heart Cheesecake, to make my mom a special little treat. She LOVES lemons! So, I made her mini creamy lemon cheesecakes with a graham cracker crust and lemon spiked whipped cream. They were dreamy, just like my husband.

Creamy Lemon Cheesecake (found in I Heart Cheesecake)
adapted for the mini pan

Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
5 tablespoons butter, melted
3 tablespoons sugar

Place crumbs in a mixing bowl and add butter and sugar, mix well. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Lemon Filling:
24 ounces cream cheese
1/4 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
3 large eggs
1 egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons lemon extract
1/2 cup sour cream
4 ounces frozen concentrated lemonade, thawed
1 teaspoon lemon peel, finely grated

In your electric mixer, beat cream cheese, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Add eggs and yolk one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla and lemon extracts, mix well. Stir in sour cream, lemonade, and lemon peel.

1. Place 1 tablespoon of the crust into each cup and pack down with the spoon.
2. Pour the filling into the prepared crusts.
3. Bake at 350 for 12-14 minutes.
4. Let cool completely.
5. Remove from the pan easily by using a wooden spoon and lifting gently.
6. Keep in an air tight container and top with sweetened whipped cream prior to serving.

Note: You might want to cut this by a third so you don't have a million mini-cheesecakes. If you're into that kind of thing.

Buffalo=cold & sweet

2010-01-23T14:59:00.001-06:00

A photo diary of our trip to Buffalo for Christmas. Gracious hosts, lots of laughs, good eats, and many cat-urdays. We'll be back soon.

Gone so long.

2010-01-23T14:10:00.000-06:00

I'm sorry I have neglected you for this last month. Here are so photos of my recent cooking adventures.

Much love and more attention.
j

Clockwise from top left: decorated gingerbread cookies; white chocolate-pumpkin cheesecake;thumbprints cooking; crispy potatoes; cauliflower-goat cheese gratin; chocolate thumbprint (Martha #11); decorated gingerbread house; chocolate fudge pie; double chocolate brownies (Martha #12); pecan tassies (Martha #13)

Tasty Tuesday

2009-12-08T06:33:00.004-06:00

These are so tasty. I had one last night and you probably didn't,
so even out the score and get one tonight.

Thanks to be given

2009-12-01T21:37:00.005-06:00

This year, Mike and I spent Thanksgiving in Cincinnati with the Amfahr clan. We had a great time, except for Mike getting some kind of food poisoning the day before. Despite the illness, we were able to celebrate by eating, game playing, going to the UI-Cincinnati football game, picking out a Christmas tree, and taking family photos. We are most certainly thankful for many things, but most of all our families.

Bread, Birthday, and Martha

2009-11-22T22:11:00.003-06:00

Sorry I've been gone for a few weeks. Here are a few things I have made and enjoyed throughout that last two weeks.

1. My parents came to Champaign to celebrate my birthday. I made olive-rosemary bread from Cooking Light. I would make it again if in the mood for a savory bread.
2. I turned 24! Mike took me to Luna for dinner and we dined like adults in nice clothes and had a great dinner. If you got the bucks, Luna is your place.
3. Ryan and Katie Sawrie came to visit the day after they finished the Indy marathon! Congrats to them and to celebrate I made a Pumpkin-White Chocolate Cheesecake. Oh, and then I made it again a few days later for a small dinner party we had (pictured).
4. I made two Martha cookies.

Martha Cookie 9 of 175: Lemon Squares

Listened to: Glee Volume 1
For: Mom

I love my mom, she loves lemons, thus I made her some lemon squares.

These were tasty and enjoyable. I enjoyed the crust because it was crisp and crunchy. To make it, you actually have to grate frozen butter. That was weird and a first, but well worth it. I would like to add more lemon flavor to the custard, maybe some lemon zest? Anyone have any other ides for making these more lemon-y?
Martha Cookie 10 of 175: Vanilla Malt Cookie

Listened to: Adult Alternative music channel
For: Originally, Jim Dorsey, but due to the failure they were split between Bob and us.

For my birthday, Mike got me a cookie press. It was a great and thoughtful gift that he thought of himself. I was excited to find a Martha cookie that I would be able to use my new gadget with. These cookies had so much potential. They included malt powder, a vanilla bean, and the use of a cookie press. Everything came together until I pulled the new toy out. There was cookie batter all over the place and may or may not have been a few tears. In the end, I made them into drop cookies and dipped them in a quick glaze with sanding sugar. They tasted fine, but were ugly and not of high enough standard to give to Bob's dad. So, to Bob and us they went.

I am determined to conquer the cookie press and will report back when that feat has been met.

So to close, good eats to you and your family.

Kids.

2009-11-22T22:11:00.002-06:00

My kids are freakin' adorable.

P.S. Wanna know how I got that spot on my pants?
I put a half-eaten banana in my pocket and then sat down.
Mrs. S had to clean out the mush from my sweatpants pocket;
she loves me.

Happy Birthday, Court!

2009-11-03T05:58:00.002-06:00

Happiest Birthday wishes to you C! Courtney is a dear friend who I have had the pleasure of living with, traveling with, and just hanging out with. She has a wonderful sense of humor, great taste in music, and an urge to know and learn more. I have loved my years of knowing her and look forward to so many more years to come. Hope today is great, C-Biz!

Book Club

2009-10-25T14:15:00.002-05:00

I am currently reading Retarded Isn't Stupid, Mom! by Sandra Kaufman for my grad class. I highly recommend it. I think it is an honest presentation of raising a child with a disability in the 60s and 70s and the fight that it takes each day to make the world more inclusive, accepting, and compassionate. I have been inspired and hope that you will be as well.

Martha & Me Cookie 8 of 175

2009-10-25T13:56:00.002-05:00

Cookie: Chocolate Waffle Cookies
To: Mom and Dad
Special Location: Amfahr kitchen

My mom gave me her waffle iron when I was in college. My dad has since whined and complained that he needed his waffle iron back. I have stood firm and my mom stood firm for a while. She has since bought him a "new" waffle iron. These cookies were an ode to my dad and his love of this old and rickety waffle iron.

I was far from a fan of these cookies, if you could even call them that. They were very waffle-y and less cookie like. My dad says he liked them, my mom told me to make the brownies I had made for my sister instead, and I was in a state of disappointment. They were a good joke, but I wouldn't make them again.

Happy Birthday, Suz!

2009-10-19T06:00:00.003-05:00

Happiest Birthday wishes to my dear Suz! While she is far away, she is so close to my heart. Susan is a friend that understands me and I her. She is a gift and I am grateful for all the wonderful memories we have shared together; from New Orleans to getting married, they are all precious.

Martha & Me Cookies 7 of 175

2009-10-11T14:17:00.007-05:00

Cookie: Truffle Brownies
Listened to: My mom talking to me :)
For: Julie's 19th birthday family celebration

My sister Julie turned 19 on Thursday. She is my sister and my friend. I love her because she can make me laugh like no one else. I was so excited to have her come to visit me and Mike to celebrate!

Julie, my parents, and her boyfriend, Jamey came to visit last weekend for a family birthday celebration. Her request for a birthday treat was "a fancy Martha cookie". I searched and found these truffle brownies. They were winners!! Mike even said "these could have come from a restaurant". That made me feel really good! I love that cooking can make people feel good and satisfied. These brownies are a traditional chocolate brownie with a delicious chocolate ganache on top. I topped these with non-pareils in the shape of a heart. Julie loved them, my family loved them, and I was filled with love for my family. It was a good weekend and proud baking moment. Thanks Martha for bringing us together.

She seemed pleased!

P.S. You MUST use Dutch-processed cocoa powder. Martha says so, and so do I.

Martha & Me Cookies 6 of 175

2009-10-11T13:59:00.004-05:00

Cookie: Mocha Shortbread
For: Katie & Ryan Sawrie

Katie is my best friend. Enough said. She is a wonderful woman of faith, love, and generosity. She has been a rock in my life for so many years and I am grateful for her. She and I meet for dinner about once every other month in Crawfordsville, IN at the Creekside Lodge. I brought her these cookies for a treat to munch on while driving home and if he was lucky, her husband at home.

I really wanted to make Katie and Ryan some cookies, but it had been a long week and we had no eggs or milk, so I had to be creative in finding my cookie recipe for them. Martha would never let me down and had some egg and milk free cookie recipes. Thanks Martha!

These were easy, tasty, and well-portioned. I have been looking for instant espresso in town, but have not been able to find it. So, I used instant coffee in these cookies and they tasted pretty good. I read the reviews of this cookie and people were not fans. I would only make these for coffee-lover friends. Mine were not too crumbly, or dry. They were a good shortbread texture and a "crowd" pleaser. Katie texted me on the way home and told me she really enjoyed the shortbread. The only worry I have is, did Ryan get any?

Porkchops and Applesauce.

2009-10-11T13:49:00.004-05:00

Porkchops

We have a new member to our family. Her name is Porkchops and she is really funny looking. Porkchops is from the Humane Society and is also a Himalayan. The one difference between her and Applesauce is she was shaved while staying at the CCHS. She looks like an alien-cat and we love her.

And of course, Applesauce.

Happy Birthday, Jules Verne.

2009-10-08T06:20:00.003-05:00

HB little girl. It was such a wonderful thing to see you this weekend and see what a fabulous woman you are becoming. I am so very proud of you little sister.

Some photos to highlight the last few months.

2009-09-24T22:08:00.008-05:00

Langston Wedding at the Niagara Falls Country Club

'Take my picture, take my picture!"

Me and my new baby.

Schroeder wedding at the Morton Arboretum. I so miss Matt and Suz.

My husband, the blacksmith.

Broiler + marshmallow + top rack = BIG fire in new oven

Hanging a baby on a sculpture in Grant Park. So weird/unsafe.

You know it, but we bought a house and love it.

Martha & Me Cookies 5 of 175

2009-09-24T17:52:00.006-05:00

Cookie: Snickerdoodle
Listened to: Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus on repeat (thanks to Mike)
For: Sandy Slagor, Deb DiFranco, and Kim Gallivan (the 3 other women in Mike's life :))

Some people (Kim) were asking why I didn't bring any cookies to my first weekend trip to Buffalo. I simply stated that there were only so many hours in the day. But I knew that there was going to be hell to pay if I didn't bring something the next weekend. (Oh yeah, you read that right. We drove to Buffalo two weekends in a row.) Kim, Sandy, and Aunt Deb mean so much to Mike and I can tell exactly why. They are great women of strength and love and I am blessed to have them in my life.

Ok so I swore to Mike that if these didn't turn out they work out/were perfect, I wasn't bringing them. I brought them and they were soooo good (if I do say so myself)! OMG! These cookies are delish. They are soft, sweet, and huge. So the weird thing about this recipe is the one on Martha's website is not the same as the one in her book. I loved these so much that I don't think I'm straying from this recipe.

2 3/4 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 1/2 cups sugar plus 2 tablespoons
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl. Put butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Mix in the egg. Reduce speed to low; gradually mix in four mixture.

2. Stir together cinnamon and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar in a small bowl. Shape dough into twenty 1 3/4 inch balls; roll in cinnamon-sugar. Space 3 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.

3. Bake cookies, rotating sheet halfway through, until edges are golden, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool on sheets on wire racks. Cookies can be stored between layers of parchment paper in airtight containers at room temperature up to 3 days.

Soooo, when I read back through this I definitely strayed a bit due to a lack of supplies/reading skills. 1. I used 1 stick of unsalted and 1 stick salted butter and reduced the additional salt, 2. I used equal parts sugar and cinnamon (3 teaspoons of each), 3. I made about 24 cookies.

Make these, you won't regret it.

Martha & Me Cookies 3 and 4 of 175

2009-09-05T11:39:00.005-05:00

So school takes over my life. Here are the updates on cookies 3 and 4

Cookie 3: Cakey Chocolate Chip Cookies
Listened to: Gossip in the Grain by Ray Lamontagne
To: The Krein family

Daniel Krein was a student in Mike's class at Central. His mom, Sheila, donated several generous materials for my classroom. One of those items is a water-filled glass tube that has plastic fish in it. When you turn it on, the fish float and light up. My students LOVE it! These were a thank you to the Kreins.

These were tasty, but nothing special to be honest. I am a bit frustrated because my cookies keep going flat after baking. I think maybe I need to better store my baking soda. Overall, these cookies are a great staple and who doesn't like chocolate chip cookies? These were fun to give because they were a surprise and actually a "saving grace". Sheila sent Mike and email telling the story of their Thursday. Long story short, the Kreins needed a snack to bring to a Boy Scout event and had nothing in the house. They took the cookies and many were able to enjoy them. So, all in all I am so happy that my cookies put a smile on someones face.

Cookie 4: Rocky Ledge Bars
To: C-U YoungLife leaders and Stratton SPED staff

YoungLife is something that is so important to me and my growth as a person. I spent some of my best times in high school with YoungLife and met my best friends from college leading YoungLife. It has been something that has been a part of my life for so long and has truly changed me. Mike and I were so excited to have the space to welcome the YoungLife leaders into our home for their leadership meeting and dinner. We had a yummy taco bar and to top it off I made these Rocky Ledge Bars and an angel food cake.

These bar cookies are to die for! I used semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and Milk Maid caramels for all the extra sweets in it. Don't forget to use dark brown sugar, not light, you'll be glad you did! The Rocky Ledge Bars are sticky, chewy, and leave little pieces of caramel in your teeth. The paraprofessionals in my classroom kept saying that they were to die for and everyone had to try one. Also, they were a good workout. You have to hand mix these, so my arms were feelin' it. Make these, enjoy them, and make them again :)

Bye Bye Baby

2009-08-26T19:29:00.004-05:00

My baby sister, Julie, is going to college tomorrow. She will be attending Kenyon College in Gambier, OH. And while she in not an Illini we are all so proud of our Lady of Gambier. Go Lords and Ladies!

First Day Jitters

2009-08-20T05:57:00.002-05:00

It's the first day of school. I don't think I will ever feel totally ready on the first day. But in the end, it's just about making kids feel welcome, loving them well, and setting the tone of teamwork.

Go Jaguars!

Happy Birthday, Liz!

2009-08-17T23:40:00.004-05:00

I always forget Liz's birthday because it is right in the thick of crazy school set-up. We have always had so much fun together, laughed so hard, cried on each other's shoulders, and have made so many great memories. Liz, I love you and am so blessed to have you as a friend!

Martha & Me: Cookie 2 of 175

2009-08-16T23:12:00.006-05:00

Cookie: Chocolate Pistachio Biscotti
Listened to: Mike talking to me while making dinner :)
For: Ben Keller and Kyra Tichacek

I met Ben at Randy and Tammy Greiner's wedding the weekend before Mike and my wedding. Ben was studying for the bar exam and skipped the ceremony to study, came to the reception, did not drink, and left early. He told me that he would be much more lively (and drunk) at the Slamfahr wedding. He did not disappoint and that is where I met Kyra. While brief, it was lovely. Kyra and Ben live in New York City and are hardworking lawyers. Just 2 weeks ago, they got engaged. These are congratulatory cookies for two great people.

I chose the biscotti because one they were being sent, two Ben and Kyra work crazy hours and need a cookie that will travel and last for longer than a day, and three biscotti seemed like a good challenge. The baking process is unique as you make the dough, bake it in a log (poop-y looking), cool it, cut it (biscotti-y looking), bake it again, and cool to eat.

I have definitely gone to a new level of dork because I have been reading all the comments people leave under the recipes on marthastewart.com. There were 21 comments for this little guy. But, I learned a lot and took some good "test kitchen" advice. I made two batches of these; one for a Mad Men party with some of Mike's poker friends and the other for Ben and Kyra. The first batch, I followed some comment advice and cut them in half due to the sheer size; much to my surprise when removing them from the oven I forgot to cut two of them. The full sized ones were much more beautiful and presentable even if they are quite large. Because my relationship with Ben and Kyra is so limited I went with presentable over sensible. I want them to like me...errr... my cookies. So, make these, keep them whole, and experiment as these are an easy base cookie. Congratulations to Ben and Kyra, we are so happy for you both!

P.S. First time sending something to NYC, so that was fun too!

Martha & Me: Cookie 1 of 175

2009-08-10T08:09:00.008-05:00

Cookie: Carrot Cake Cookies
Listened to: Plans by Death Cab for Cutie
To:Bob Dorsey and Matt Lammers

Bob Dorsey, dear friend of ours that Mike met through poker in 2005. He was a groomsman at our wedding and a wonderful man. He saw Julie & Julia with us.

Matt Lammers, another great friend of ours that I met in YoungLife in 2003. Matt and I were partners in crime all through college and have so many wonderful memories.

I let Mike have the honors of choosing the first cookie to be made for the Martha & Me project. He chose Carrot Cake Cookies. Martha describes them as "tiny inside-out carrot cakes, with the signature cream cheese frosting in the inside and spiced 'cake' on the outside". I think they lived up to her description. I followed the teachings in the back of my book about letting butter and eggs come to room temperature which did seem to help the creaming process. The only place I truly struggled was keeping the cookies in a more uniform and dense circle. My cookies came out flatter than what I had hoped and expected. The cream cheese frosting is to die for, so that was a definite plus. I would make these again and maybe try cutting the cookies out with a cookie cutter and see the results. Pictures to come with the revelation of my camera cord.

What I learned from this cookie:
1. Parchment paper is amazing
2. Let your cookies fully chill before baking
3. Let your cookies fully cool before removing from the baking sheet

On a sidenote, I moved around the appliances on my counters so I could keep my KitchenAide on the counter at all times with my Martha Stewart's Cookies sitting right beside it. Already this is becoming a slight obsession. My husband has Lost and I have cookies.

Martha & Me

2009-08-09T23:21:00.005-05:00

A few summers ago, I listened to the book Julie & Julia on the way to Maine for a family vacation. I loved the book and the idea of being committed to your hobby. I was so excited to see that a movie was being made of the book and I just had to see it.

Fast forward to a couple of days ago when I was in Borders with my student, Becca. We were simply browsing the cookbook section when I ran into Martha Stewart's Cookies. Then and there I was inspired to begin my own culinary adventure. Martha is my Julia; she cooks, organizes, decorates, and photographs in a style that resonates with me.

175 cookie recipes.

I will make at least one a week and send them off to family and friends. Be on the lookout because the one condition Mike had for this project was "get them out of our house!". Every Monday I will report on the great Martha successes or failures.

I give you Martha & Me.

Jeanine wins

2009-08-07T09:05:00.005-05:00

One of my favorite shows is So You Think You Can Dance and my dear husband has watched and voted with me all summer long. Last night's finale was filled with some of my favorite dances from the season, not to mention the crowning of America's favorite dancer (for this season at least). Jeanine was the lovely winner and while I wanted Melissa or Ade to ultimately win, Jeanine was a worthy winner in my book. Here are a few of my favorite dances in case you missed them.

Vitamins for your health

2009-08-06T21:20:00.003-05:00

I went to the doctor today and Dr. B told me a little something that married woman should know. She told me that women who are at risk of becoming pregnant should be taking a daily vitamin or a folic acid pill for the chance that you may become pregnant. Dr. B said that you may not be aware that you are pregnant for longer than you would want your baby to be without the vital brain forming vitamins. So, I went to Walgreens and bought some adult chewable vitamins. So ladies- head out to Walgreens and get yourself some vitamins; your maybe-baby will appreciate it.

Missing camera cord and books to read.

2009-07-30T18:28:00.012-05:00

Well, I have had so many things I have wanted to share with you, namely food items I have created, but my camera cord is missing. I will bring you pictures, recipes, and stories when the cord is found. But alas, I will share with you some more books to add to your list to read.

Steve Almond and quickly becoming one of my favorite authors for his humor, voice, and sheer ability to be so conversational in written word. He is fantastic! I bought his book Candyfreak! while in college and fell in love. It so really interesting, not to mention hilarious. Almond regales his readers with stories from childhood through adulthood all surrounding his love of candy. He never leaves the reader bored.

I am now reading his collection of essays, (Not that You Asked). He writes about everything from "how this book became an official 'Oprah's Book Club' pick (not that you asked)" to "how I became a baby daddy (not that you asked)". I am half-way through and he has kept me captivated. Beware, Steve Almond leaves nothing out. He's cynical, uses crude analogies, make sexual references, and swears a lot. But with all that, he tells stories of his love of literature, what makes him love his wife, and how he became a writer. I would say he is a modern-romantic, whimsical in thought with a splash of obscenity. He makes me laugh, feel connected, and the swearing part makes me think of my friend Liz.

I highly suggest both Candyfreak! and (Not that You Asked) to you because I like you.

North Woods and Cakes

2009-07-22T09:09:00.011-05:00

I went on a lovely 5-day ladies trip to Wisconsin with 3 co-workers. It was such a nice, relaxing time. While there I read The Jane Austen Book Club. I have seen the movie and was looking for a light and easy read for my trip. It was enjoyable and just a fun little read. If you need a quick pick- me-up, look for it at your library. Side note: Isn't it so interesting how books can be transformed by a movie? There are scenes and characters in the book that are blown-up, vamped, and made to be the proverbial mountain out of molehill. The book is sweet, the movie is sweet, but in different ways. While I was gone a beautiful little thing happened. I had a NEW oven and dryer delivered from Sears. My new oven is not only clean and new, but has a ceramic top, 5 working and smell-free burners, a steady temperature in the oven, and there's a light! I love it! The dryer is great too. It runs in a normal amount of time and makes a nice loud 'ding' sound when done. So happy!

Which brings me to my next point. I made a delicious honey vanilla pound cake with cherries as the inaugural bake in the new oven. It was so yummy.

Here's the recipe from Ina Garten, THE Barefoot Contessa.

Honey Vanilla Pound Cake (Ina Garten)

½ pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
1¼ cups sugar
4 extra-large eggs at room temperature
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
2 cups sifted cake flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ a jar of maraschino cherries or another fruit of choice, cut in half (my own addition)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease the bottom of an 8½ x 4½ x 2½ inch loaf pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper, then grease and flour the pan.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar on medium speed for 3 to 4 minutes. Meanwhile, put the eggs, honey, vanilla, and lemon zest in a glass measuring cup but do not combine. With the mixer on medium-low speed, add the egg mixture, one egg at a time, scraping down the bowl and allowing each egg to become incorporated before adding the next egg.

Sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder. With the mixer on low speed, add it slowly to the batter until just combined. Finish mixing the batter with a rubber spatula and add the fruit by folding gently. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 15 minutes, turn out onto a baking rack, and cool completely.

Good eats to you and to my "roomies".

Here's the results if you cook like Ina and photograph like Quentin Bacon
(I kid you not, a food photographer named Bacon).

Mi casa es su casa.

2009-07-14T18:46:00.004-05:00

Here are some highlights from our new home. Including a picture of Mike's mom in front of our house after her visit, our very comfy living room, kitchen (in which we are getting a NEW ceramic top range), dining room filled with band posters, and our adorable cat, Applesauce. Like cats or not, she is fluffy and adorable.

We love our new house and love visitors even more. Please come to our lovely city and we will happily put you up in a fine guest quarters (ask Don Juan) and feed you well.

Welcome!

2009-07-14T18:41:00.004-05:00

Well, I have long enjoyed blogging (in secret) with friends as a way to stay in touch and just express joy, sorrow, laughter, and life in another way. As of late, I have outed myself as a blog-writer and blog-reader, as well have been inspired by friends who have begun their blogging journeys. So, here it is; snack-sized pieces of life with Mike in Champaign.