A Romantic Evening at Home for Mom and Dad- We become parents, and take on the responsibility of raising and caring for our children. This is a special task with hardships, and yet wonderful rewards. But, what happened to those two people who met and fell in love? Did you turn into Mama and Daddy with no hope of another romantic evening alone?
Appetizers- The holidays bring all kinds of opportunities for munching. Whether you are entertaining a crowd or simply looking for some fun recipes, these will do the trick.
Berry Crumble Muffins- Create a nice surprise for Mother's Day by baking Mom
a batch of these berry muffins. Say "I Love You" by
serving them to her in bed along with her favorite coffee
or tea.
Bite Size Zucchini Muffins- Serve these muffins as a quick, on-the-go breakfast, a lunchbox treat or an after school snack. There's so much flavor packed into these little snacks that your kids won't even know that they are eating something with a vegetable in them!
Cheesecake Filled Chocolate Covered Strawberries- These plump strawberries filled with cheesecake, dipped in chocolate and then drizzled are perfect for birthdays, parties, celebrations, and holidays. Summer is the perfect time for these chocolately decendant fruits.
Cherry Delight Breakfast Cake- This cherry cake is great for breakfast or dessert. It will make a nice surprise breakfast for Mom on Mother's Day. Don't forget a cup of coffee or tea to go along with it.
Chocolate Cookies Made with Love- Chocolate cookies made in your own kitchen are the perfect gift for Mother's Day, Valentine's Day or anniversaries. They also work wonderfully for wedding showers or a welcome back gift for returning honeymooners. Light, but delicious, they bring smiles with every bite.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars- A great way to get kids involved in the kitchen, is by preparing a recipe that will satisfy their sweet tooth. Many children love the opportunity to measure, mix, and bake, and don't even mind the clean up afterward. Try this tasty treat with your kids.
Conversation Heart Cookies- Originally intended for Valentine's Day these cookies are a perfect gift for mom! Add your special message and she'll adore this treat from the heart.
Dreamy Chocolate Cake Balls- If you are looking for a decadent and delicious recipe that will look great and your kids can help make, then this is it. Rich and swet, these cake balls are a perfect gift plain or dressed up with drizzle.
Fancy Chocolate Covered Mini Pretzels- What mom doesn't love chocolate? This sweet treat is easy to make and sends a message of love. Make a big batch for mom this Mother's Day.
Give 'Em A Big Kiss!- Looking for something fun to do in the kitchen with mom or dad? Make rice krispy kisses in all kinds of sizes for your favorite person!
Linzer Heart Torte- This spectacular cake, perfect for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day or anytime you want to say "I Love You," has the flavors of a traditional Linzertorte. The rich hazelnuts are as perfect a contrast to the sweet-tart raspberry flavors as the creamy white icing is to the jewel toned raspberry jam on top.
Liven Up Your Iced Tea- Iced tea is a traditional refreshing drink during the warm months, and one of my favorites. However, there is so much more you can do with tea to liven up your days and nights! Remember, too that presentation makes all the difference, whether you are entertaining others or treating yourself during a busy day.
Mini Cucumber Sandwiches- These mini open faced cucumber sandwiches have been around for as long as I can remember. From office parties to family gatherings, they are a tasty and refreshing addition to any appetizer tray.
Nanaimo Bars- These delicious cookies are a staple of local cafes in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. These bars freeze well, so it's nice to make extras to keep in the freezer for anytime you want a quick treat. Before cutting the bars, if you dip your knife into hot water to heat it, it will help make the process neater and cut easily through the chocolate.
Pancake Recipes- Pancakes have existed for centuries in just about every culture in the world, in one form of another. But for most people in the western world, the power of pancakes lies in their ability to get a day off to a great start. You just know something great could happen when your day starts with a freshly made stack, hot of the griddle.
Savory Steak Dinner for Two- The kids are tucked in bed and you've rented a movie. Don't stop there... plan a late-evening dinner for grown-ups! Light some candles, share a bottle of red wine and make this delicious, classic dinner for two.
Sweetheart Breakfast- This Valentine inspired breakfast is perfect for Mother's Day. Put together this special treat for mom and serve it to her in bed. She'll love the attention!
Ultimate Lemon Bars- This recipe takes lemon bars, that lunchbox and bake sale favorite, to whole new levels. I served them at a New Year's Party dessert buffet, and everyone declared them a favorite (they even beat out cheesecake and chocolate tarts!).
Thanksgiving
The leaves are almost done falling and Thanksgiving is quickly approaching! Whether you are looking for fun crafts, great recipes, or costume ideas, you'll find it all here. Here are a few examples to get you started...
Family Matters Radio
FMR is a nationally syndicated radio program developed to help you live your best life, hosted by Caroline & Jacquie. No rants and raves - you get enough of that from your kids. Choose a segment below to begin listening!