tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19273173887581987012024-03-18T23:16:53.075-04:00One Smart CookieTeaching and Baking... that's what I do <a href="http://pinterest.com/kje2011/"><img src="https://s-passets-ec.pinimg.com/images/about/buttons/follow-me-on-pinterest-button.png" width="169" height="28" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest"></a>KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-39747535471711536562015-04-29T17:41:00.004-04:002015-04-29T17:41:52.391-04:00Removing Recipes...Hey Friends,<br />
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It's with a heavy heart that I am going to have to inform you that I am going to remove my lactation boosting recipes from my blog. It has recently come to my attention that cookies are being sold using my recipes. I usually would not mind, but no credit is being given to the original source. Maybe it's the middle school English teacher in me, but I was really bummed when I found out that no credit for the creations were being given to me. Maybe the irony is that I am currently teaching my middle school students about the art of researching and sourcing. I guess I know what my lesson will include tomorrow... a little first hand experience with the frustration of not being given credit for something that you lovingly made.<br />
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I got into the blogging scene as a way to record my recipes because I was incredibly forgetful. I love to bake, and I am constantly tweaking my recipes in order to make the best possible product. I got into the lactation cookie business after struggling with supply myself. I began to bake lactation goodies to help me keep up with my daughter's demands after I went back to work when she was 4 months old. I spent 1.5 years baking for free for all my friends, relatives, and random people I met when they were struggling with supply. I spent close to two years perfecting my recipes before selling them. I do this for the love of baking and my passion for helping nursing mothers. I do not make much money at all on my product. I make enough to take my sweet hubby on a few dates each month.<br />
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I greatly appreciate all the love given on this blog for my recipes and my lactation boosting treat recipes. The ones posted on this blog are not ones that I currently sell in my shop. I posted them with the hopes of helping other mamas struggling with supply that could not afford to pay for others to bake for them. I think of my baking for mamas as part of my vocation and ministry in life. I love more than anything to craft new cookie flavors for mamas. I love that my cookies and recipes bring such joy to others. I like to take a mama's favorite regular cookie flavor and turn it into a lactation treat. I love to come up with ideas for lactation goodies that aren't in the "norm" so that each mom feels like the treats are made just for her. That is how the Cheesecake Lactation Cookies came to be. That is how the Ginger Molasses got their start.<br />
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I find that it is so important in this digital age to remember to always identify your source. I know I don't have a copyright on my recipes. I know that I put them out here in the blogosphere, so I shouldn't be upset that they are being used. I really and truly do know this. I am really only upset that others are passing the recipes off as their own and not identifying my blog as the source. <br />
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I wish everyone happy baking and nursing on this beautiful spring day! I can't wait to go nurse our sweet baby girl after a long day at work. Nothing cures being bummed better than sweet, little squish snuggles and mommy milk smiles!KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-11911979379740267562015-01-24T13:22:00.000-05:002015-01-24T14:00:10.735-05:00Let It Be: The Birth of Mary Maeve**warning** Grab a cup of coffee and a snack, this is going to be a long one...<br />
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Two years ago, 18 months after the birth of our first daughter via scheduled cesarean section, I wrote a <a href="http://onesmartcook.blogspot.com/2013/01/ap-our-way-birth-bonding.html" target="_blank">blog post</a> about attachment parenting and the importance of birth bonding. My first birth was difficult, and it took me months to process exactly what had happened. I had been encouraged by my OB/GYN to schedule a c section, but it wasn't until months after her birth that I realized that it was completely unnecessary. I had a horrible case of PPD/PPA, and I was angry. Why did I willingly do this? What will the future of our family be due to my choice? I was in shock-- if this is what birth is like, I DEFINITELY did not want any more children. How does this play into our spiritual life? We are Catholic, so more babies were supposed to be (God willing) in our future. It took me about two years to decide that I, in fact, did want another child. I was weary, and I was scared. Would I have PPD/PPA again? Would I be able to cope? Is it fair to put my family through that again? I decided I needed to do anything and everything in order to prepare myself mentally, spiritually, physically, and emotionally for the birth of a second child. I knew that I never wanted to experience having a cesarean section again, and I was terrified about the fight I would now need to face in order to attempt a vaginal birth.<br />
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We decided to start trying to expand our family in June of 2013. When I didn't become pregnant right away we decided that God had a plan for our lives, and we started to live our faith more and rely on His direction for our family. When I used hear "everything happens for a reason" I would automatically roll my eyes, but after that summer, I can definitely say that everything, in fact, does happen for a reason: His reason.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivn3rOolrCpNAJ_pOkTUOnTTlQJJNtdPdOjhQrIMEHrw2N4W_-9XpEdZ_csBFiQWm_4kLAe2VoMHMJgQtgRRmH8-WVHlfUulDTVJBhftSmoV9d6xKlRlfxR08qQCRHBhpS-_v3jYe59ng/s1600/1924640_10101452486263011_4331220280732558067_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivn3rOolrCpNAJ_pOkTUOnTTlQJJNtdPdOjhQrIMEHrw2N4W_-9XpEdZ_csBFiQWm_4kLAe2VoMHMJgQtgRRmH8-WVHlfUulDTVJBhftSmoV9d6xKlRlfxR08qQCRHBhpS-_v3jYe59ng/s1600/1924640_10101452486263011_4331220280732558067_n.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>My anxiety returned that summer, and I was forced to face it head on. It was the most difficult two months of my life, but I am happy to say that I came out on the other side stronger, and believe it or not, thankful for my hardships. That summer brought me back to Him. It made me realize that He has the most amazing plan for my life, and that I needed to be patient and accepting of His path. I became very devoted to the Blessed Mother during the fall of 2013, and I found my way to the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche (Our Lady of the Milk and Happy Delivery) in St. Augustine, FL. It became my refuge, and she became my rock. I purchased a religious medal, had it blessed, and wore it every day to remind me to thank her for walking with me each day. I felt her presence in my life, and she helped me to become a better mother through her example. I prayed the novena on a regular basis, and I took every opportunity presented to me to walk with Jesus, and be his hands and feet in my community. I was shy and introverted, but by answering the call I was finally able to break free from my social anxiety and become involved in my parish community. I attended a Christ Renews His Parish weekend, and met with many wonderful women each week for a year. My relationship with those women helped me to continue my spiritual growth, and I felt like my life was on the path he had prepared for me.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE1RJWDv1hxj0aqtv0uxjLIINxowtTm3guU6TM6eHQ9lFAgt5JEVqYMWBM5lXvJPCmjBm24acQy2_co4fU_PyDAk7OzSDrRy1_ORBr46Ct8aKlVFbAb_AJP8TdcJmH5Zb3dubf3hHBzHU/s1600/10590575_10101745134264071_2730175263226965404_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE1RJWDv1hxj0aqtv0uxjLIINxowtTm3guU6TM6eHQ9lFAgt5JEVqYMWBM5lXvJPCmjBm24acQy2_co4fU_PyDAk7OzSDrRy1_ORBr46Ct8aKlVFbAb_AJP8TdcJmH5Zb3dubf3hHBzHU/s1600/10590575_10101745134264071_2730175263226965404_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><br />
In the Spring of 2014 we were given the gift we knew we needed to be patient to receive; I was pregnant. We were going to be parents again, and it couldn't have been a better time. Had I have conceived during the summer of 2013, I would have had many personal difficulties to face during my pregnancy. Everything certainly happens in His time.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjuQqex31Uvnh_C0O6zJqFkcvIML9jG4RkzT7RKJkdiJ9esDaq4vbCKgl_ldAQpIqV2M0MggJfFXkI7omSBHXNsTOXnW7AyakNfMlU03IeGzQFSB1LII4yC7erGmBYKrSneoDSAhPNk0/s1600/1908077_10101706572961231_3701782400444584488_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjuQqex31Uvnh_C0O6zJqFkcvIML9jG4RkzT7RKJkdiJ9esDaq4vbCKgl_ldAQpIqV2M0MggJfFXkI7omSBHXNsTOXnW7AyakNfMlU03IeGzQFSB1LII4yC7erGmBYKrSneoDSAhPNk0/s1600/1908077_10101706572961231_3701782400444584488_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><br />
I was pregnant, so now I knew I needed to prepare. I had spent the previous 18 months saving money so that I could experience birth in a different way the second time, and I had saved up enough money to pay for midwifery care, homebirth supplies, Hynpnobirthing classes, a doula, chiropractic care, and a placenta encapsulation specialist to ward off the unwanted PPD/PPA.<br />
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My husband and I spent the months leading up to my labor and delivery praying and prepping. We felt blessed to be given this beautiful gift, and we were going to do everything we could to welcome her into the world in a loving and peaceful way. I read all the Ina May books I could get my hands on, and we made several trips to the shrine of Our Lady of La Leche to light candles and pray for our unborn child.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqM-cFmBtZvWVcEf5YCTAMabVd8Fb0x5UZBfTycqTfNGnJ24hL7syYwJj79BIhzd-tFyK4fmaE1Sz9G4KwpXZ7MeWIgxR0O-61B0RWgsGWzBalkodk0uuo-4TheBaz55Uxvj0io-gGl9k/s1600/10435133_10101855755133961_8736746564268925527_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqM-cFmBtZvWVcEf5YCTAMabVd8Fb0x5UZBfTycqTfNGnJ24hL7syYwJj79BIhzd-tFyK4fmaE1Sz9G4KwpXZ7MeWIgxR0O-61B0RWgsGWzBalkodk0uuo-4TheBaz55Uxvj0io-gGl9k/s1600/10435133_10101855755133961_8736746564268925527_n.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4olj-o0mCp9yPOEha_8wP5bdc9aJTWVXsdjzvDkiVpXPBFrq483XiOIG6i9Yc23kDnqmyACT7ZcfNRLrTWBh3sH4KZN6t1shOCLfXAiMSwxqujCFehF-b9n1LdDXHC4gBNecNjV_IYs/s1600/10301517_10101615859561611_7056293041029453541_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4olj-o0mCp9yPOEha_8wP5bdc9aJTWVXsdjzvDkiVpXPBFrq483XiOIG6i9Yc23kDnqmyACT7ZcfNRLrTWBh3sH4KZN6t1shOCLfXAiMSwxqujCFehF-b9n1LdDXHC4gBNecNjV_IYs/s1600/10301517_10101615859561611_7056293041029453541_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>I was due November 7th, so I decided that I would stop teaching on that Friday knowing full well that I could still have up to two weeks until our daughter would be born. My husband and I created a birth play list, I hung up all the birth inspiration art and artifacts I had been creating and gathering throughout my pregnancy, and we waited. On the Monday after my due date, Doodle Bug came down with a nasty stomach bug. To say I "freaked out" would be an understatement. I thought-- this was it-- I will catch this stomach bug, and my shot at a VBAC will go out the window. I called my midwife in tears. She told me to rest, and that even if I caught it I could still have a vaginal birth. That many women have given birth while having a cold or bug, and that if I needed it, I could get an IV of fluids. Her reassuring words put me at ease, and I began to clean, clean, clean the house again. Nesting-- you've never seen a pregnant woman nest like I did after that bug. I prayed in thanksgiving that I had not gone into labor before this bug-- what would we have done with a newborn and a very ill toddler? I reminded myself once again that it all happens in His time.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eiiSpmAp8yoaT6pI7Ufma_wjIr48mgh2rqNBqMFj2JEqHj5QOZhSlW8nJIn0eT5zigDv6iuojKBiN4WtM6361myVxnD7aWMSTJiJd55PCPxDdut6iAzSE0YpSsKPBLBz3XEVoy8lj3A/s1600/10462794_10101805996226211_3430645329706599850_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eiiSpmAp8yoaT6pI7Ufma_wjIr48mgh2rqNBqMFj2JEqHj5QOZhSlW8nJIn0eT5zigDv6iuojKBiN4WtM6361myVxnD7aWMSTJiJd55PCPxDdut6iAzSE0YpSsKPBLBz3XEVoy8lj3A/s1600/10462794_10101805996226211_3430645329706599850_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">41 weeks 2 days</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After I had cleaned the house top to bottom for what felt like the 100th time, I finally felt like I could leave the house, and I begin attending daily mass while I was waiting for our sweet baby girl to make her way into the world. I loved going to daily mass and seeing many of the women from my CRHP group. I knew that I was approaching my "time out" date of 42 weeks, so seeing those women and being joined in prayer each day helped me keep my mind focused. I began going to the chiropractor every few days, and I hoped and prayed that she would be coming soon-- at this point I really felt great, and felt like I would be pregnant forever! She showed no real signs of being ready until about 41 weeks when I started getting warm up contractions that would start strong in the evening and fizzle out while I was sleeping.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6inWwBJi55hOdAuBBVDIGGMlhjBpIEQBRYraqYYQ3MXdY6ju40AhIdCFlTPTIZmbV0hFf4viCluvOZEenqBEl7zeJjIplXrpBdBnoa9EcxLfQvTPYOmPT5E7btpeZ2-hnIqyTRyYW5iM/s1600/10409553_10101855755168891_7966485906574804173_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6inWwBJi55hOdAuBBVDIGGMlhjBpIEQBRYraqYYQ3MXdY6ju40AhIdCFlTPTIZmbV0hFf4viCluvOZEenqBEl7zeJjIplXrpBdBnoa9EcxLfQvTPYOmPT5E7btpeZ2-hnIqyTRyYW5iM/s1600/10409553_10101855755168891_7966485906574804173_n.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>At 41 weeks 3 days I went into the hospital for procedural intermittent monitoring because I had gone past 41 weeks. They told me that she and I both looked "perfect" and that we could go home. I had been dreading this trip because most people before me said that they had a horrible experience at the hospital, and that they had wanted to admit them and induce labor. The fact that it went so well and that we saw such wonderful doctors and nurses that day was not a coincidence in my eyes. I knew He was looking out for us, and at 41 weeks 4 days I scheduled a relaxing "come out baby" massage and had my membranes swept for the first time. I was not effacing, and not dilating like I needed to, so I took an herbal supplement suggested by my midwives to help encourage effacement. They reassured me that they had never had to transfer a client due to timing out, and it wasn't going to start with me.<br />
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At 41 weeks 5 days I decided that I needed to stay in for the day. After my massage the day before, I knew I needed to rest and allow her to feel like I was ready for her to come. I was tired of being around people because they kept asking me what my back up plan was. I did not want to talk about the back up plan. I did not want to envision a need for an alternative. I stayed in bed that day listening to music (mostly <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifCWN5pJGIE" target="_blank">"Mary Did You Know"</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8_475FKJWQ" target="_blank">"Breath of Heaven"</a>) on repeat, and I cried. I cried a good, long, hard cry. After my cry, I felt a release. I needed to let go, and let God. I finally knew why it was taking me so long to do this-- I was terrified of what would happen after her birth. Would I experience the same pain? Would I fall into the depths of depression again? I had to believe and trust in Him. I had to put my faith in the fact that He had prepared me, and that I would not be abandoned during my hour of need. I prayed that I would be held in His loving embrace during the PP period. I got out of bed, picked up my daughter from her grandparents' house, and I was confident that baby would come soon. <br />
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At 41 weeks 6 days my husband started paternity leave, and we went back to the chiropractor for a quick adjustment and some encouragement and then off to my midwifery appointment to check on my progress. I was finally effacing, and was 3 cm dilated!! My membranes were swept again, and I could not contain my excitement. I would not time out, I would get the homebirth I hoped and prayed for. We went to lunch at our favorite sushi spot, picked up our daughter from preschool, and decided to walk around Target to get my contractions to kick into high gear. I was given tips to try doing <a href="http://www.milescircuit.com/" target="_blank">Miles Circuit Positions </a> to help encourage baby girl to get into the correct position in my pelvis. I started losing my plug, and I knew it was only a matter of time. I had gone into labor-- I had NOT timed out!<br />
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At around 12 or so in the morning the contractions really started to pick up, so we called our doula and hubby assembled the birth pool. I felt like I better eat something to keep up my energy, so my husband made me a peanut butter sandwich and some trail mix. I snacked, and the contractions started to pick up and become more powerful. We decided to try to watch a movie, but I became distracted. I started to silently panic again. This baby is coming-- I will be postpartum soon. My mild panic attack halted my contractions. I did not let anyone know what I was feeling, so we all decided that the doula should go home and that we should all try to get a little rest. After she left, I knew I couldn't sleep, so I shared with my husband my fears. He held me close, and reassured me (as he always does-- I am so incredibly lucky to be married and best friends with such an amazing man). We prayed the OLLL Novena, I clutched my rosary, and we slept (as best we could through contractions).<br />
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At 7 A.M. my hubby got our daughter ready for school, and dropped her off with the grandparents. We did not tell her I was in labor, and knew it would be a great surprise for her later. My contractions were about 3-5 minutes apart, so we called the doula, and she came back. She alerted the midwife, and Shea came to check me at around 10. I was only 4 cm dilated, so Shea needed to go back to the birth center for some appointments, but would be back to check on me soon. At around that time my amazing chiropractors came to check on me and adjusted my pelvis. They left to go help some mamas in St. Augustine, but promised to come back later in the day if needed.<br />
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At this time the intensity of my contractions picked up, and it was torture to be on my back. My midwives came back (BOTH of them were at my birth-- I felt so honored that they both-- even though having delivered 4 babies in 40 hours-- wanted to be there with me). I labored around the house being supported by my doula and husband. When they became too powerful to walk though, my doula suggested leaning over my birth ball on my bed. Up until this point I was able to communicate and laugh after the pass of each powerful wave. When I got back to my room and comfortable on the ball, the contractions became increasingly intense. This was the turning point for me. I knew that I would not be able to just "breathe through" them, and there was NO turning back. I did not expect the pain to be this intense. I had suffered with migraines for 15 years. I had taught myself to breathe through pain and could put myself to sleep when needed. I had planned to apply this practice to labor, but I knew at this point I would not be able to do so. I had been used to constant, long term pain. I had never experienced short bursts of intense pain before, and I didn't know what I should do to make the pain manageable. I refused to allow myself to panic, so I thought I would just need to pray. I asked my husband to retrieve my novena prayer card and to lead me in prayer. We said the novena during about 2 contractions, and I asked him to leave the card with me and prop it up on the pillow in front of my birth ball. I knew I what I needed to face this pain. I needed to surrender, and pray for intercession. I clutched my necklace, and I prayed.<br />
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During each contraction I silently prayed the final prayer of the <a href="http://our.lady.of.la.leche.tripod.com/unp.htm" target="_blank">Novena</a>.<br />
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Cherished Virgin, Heaven's Queen, chosen before all women to be the mother of the son of God. Mary, my mother, who in your maternity so sanctified the state of holy motherhood, imploringly I come to you; humbly I beseech you; Confidently I trust in you. I know that by your powerful intercession you can help me in my need. In you I take refuge, dear virgin. Poor and needy I turn devoutly to you and place all my hopes confidently in your hands. Accept my humble trust, hear my petitions and come to my aid, dear Mother of mothers.<br />
Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord.<br />
<b>Let it be done unto me according to your word.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNS8jSMqxfXkkm3ZSzuAjjxVk1uBs6s2jPMYUpUGYwmCUqfEuKTUgtMqcLI1ZYsMJYeQRQY6JFhdpjsw2_a4HuB6sSjoHvo0Z8rzi1RFYNPXZOHMMU_qTgRIPRRuFxou7Hw9SMy569JQ/s1600/1012943_10101855755084061_8953186118930878125_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNS8jSMqxfXkkm3ZSzuAjjxVk1uBs6s2jPMYUpUGYwmCUqfEuKTUgtMqcLI1ZYsMJYeQRQY6JFhdpjsw2_a4HuB6sSjoHvo0Z8rzi1RFYNPXZOHMMU_qTgRIPRRuFxou7Hw9SMy569JQ/s1600/1012943_10101855755084061_8953186118930878125_n.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>At this point I am not exactly sure how many hours elapsed. My husband believes it was approximately 6-7 hours of silence. In the beginning of my meditation I prayed the entire prayer, but as the contractions intensified and I moved to the birth pool, I began to focus each contraction on particular pieces of the prayer. I felt nauseated during contractions and would point for someone to bring me a bucket (though I never actually needed it-- thank goodness) or a glass of water.<br />
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Imploringly I come to you<br />
Humbly I beseech you<br />
Confidently I trust in you<br />
I know that you can help me in my need<br />
In you I take refuge<br />
I turn devoutly to you<br />
I place all my hopes confidently in your hands.<br />
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This beautiful and desperate plea for help kept me focused, and it was around this time that my doula was called to another birth. She is an amazing birth photographer as well, and her other client went into labor 3 weeks early while I went into labor two weeks late. I knew she had a replacement coming to be with me, and since I couldn't speak, I gave her a thumbs up to let her know I was okay. Shea decided to check me again, and this time I was at a 9. My doula's back up came, and she jumped right in, lovingly helping me back to the tub, fixing my hair, applying counter pressure, and feeding me sips of water. She was absolutely amazing. A short while later I was told that my chiropractor was coming to see me again. When she arrived I spoke for the first time in quite awhile, and I think it shocked those around me. I said, "I'm sorry, but I don't think I can get out." Everyone laughed and realized I was speaking to Dr. Nicole. It took a few minutes and a few contractions for me to get out of the tub and walk the maybe 10 steps to the adjustment table she set up in my living room. Being on my back and side for the adjustment were excruciatingly painful, but the adjustment to my pelvis and neck immediately made me feel better. I asked to stand up, and as I held on to the back of my couch, I had a massive contraction, and my water broke!<br />
<br />
As I was helped back into the tub, my doula (also a Hypnobirthing instructor and former midwife-- seriously, how lucky was I?!) explained to me how to do J breathing, and positioned me in the tub on all fours. I began to focus on the final part of the prayer... "Come to my aid, dear Mother of mothers." I needed Mary's intercession now more than ever. My doula told me that when I felt the contraction coming on I needed to bear down and rock back to my heels like I was doing child's pose in yoga. I did this for a few contractions, but since I figured I would have HOURS of pushing ahead of me, I decided to turn over and have a short rest. After all, I thought I was just practicing pushing. I did not feel any pressure or added pain. With the next contraction I "practiced" my j breathing again, and I started to feel some pressure. I thought my midwife was internally checking me, so I started to wave my hands and told her to "get outta there!!". She started laughing and holding up her hands. In my haze I heard Shea say, "It's not me! That's your baby. Reach down and touch her hair!" I replied with, "That's not possible, my babies don't have hair!" I decided to take her word for it though, and I was shocked with what I found. THIS WAS HAPPENING! This is real! My baby is almost here!! With the next contraction her head came out. I felt no "ring of fire." What I felt instead was her head MOVING. I started to laugh. "She's turning her head!! This feels so weird!, and with the next contraction at 5:37 P.M., Mary Maeve Elizabeth was out and on my chest. I was told I pushed for only 18 minutes.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGorQm-2WuHrONb2i-mgISfOMmwXGWcJfJknmZ7rchubjyd6ze8cLbImHoe147orDqG72u6i0MgBg8c7_UOKEL0-SSUu4bIHP_frMxw_zjxW2aXJLyps4jK9yJB7MUxsS8hcO1gDL4ak/s1600/10370367_10101855755014201_3551325553499358390_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGorQm-2WuHrONb2i-mgISfOMmwXGWcJfJknmZ7rchubjyd6ze8cLbImHoe147orDqG72u6i0MgBg8c7_UOKEL0-SSUu4bIHP_frMxw_zjxW2aXJLyps4jK9yJB7MUxsS8hcO1gDL4ak/s1600/10370367_10101855755014201_3551325553499358390_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a>I can't adequately explain in words what I was feeling in that moment. She was here. I did it. My body was, in fact, made to grow, birth, and nourish my babies. I had my loving husband, my fantastic midwives Hope and Shea, my encouraging chiropractor Nicole, and my amazingly supportive doulas Lori and Emily all cheering me on and praising me for what I had done. I knew I could not have achieved this beautiful, redemptive birth without each one of them and their loving and supportive roles. I sat back, and the lyrics of "Let It Be" by The Beatles flooded my mind. "When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me... speaking words of wisdom... let it be." What a perfect song for our beautiful gift to be brought into this world to. I had to learn that lesson time and time again while I was preparing for her birth as well as during my labor. I had to let go, let it be, and trust in the plan God had for me. I had to lean on Mary. I had to have faith in her intercession. Best part of all? She was born on November 21st. She was born on the feast day of the Presentation of Mary. She knew exactly when she wanted to be born, and she waited for the absolutely perfect day to make her arrival!<br />
<br />
After the placenta was birthed (this, to me, was actually harder than pushing out Mary Maeve-- I already had my prize in my arms, and the contractions had subsided... how was I going to push any more??), we moved back to our bedroom. She latched on to nurse, we chatted, and celebrated with a toast of a lovely Irish Meade, and she was weighed and checked out. 8 lbs 2 oz... a whole pound bigger than her sister. My body ROCKED this VBAC. I felt as though I could fly. After awhile, everyone left, and we cuddled in bed with our beautiful baby girl-- birth bonding at its finest :)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNpbFA86zA98BgS_okCIJedNzUjwyVHE0p-AMbaDzSjxnZnFAZPDNzOHn3J8kqtColPomHLnBh7mgfpttU4ixkfcZeHEVJGZqZUck5us1cSw00K53Jg9VpB9otz3LpVWaaYznn_rx_HA/s1600/10422086_10101938943084641_7520653453865338877_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNpbFA86zA98BgS_okCIJedNzUjwyVHE0p-AMbaDzSjxnZnFAZPDNzOHn3J8kqtColPomHLnBh7mgfpttU4ixkfcZeHEVJGZqZUck5us1cSw00K53Jg9VpB9otz3LpVWaaYznn_rx_HA/s1600/10422086_10101938943084641_7520653453865338877_n.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwoXAahm8gTthV1FqmQvKQgsXfL20EMF0QWa652gk0fbA2dRbRSqKIdryplXUJEmh2tjw0qnM267KDcSc1JhX7qpJzo3chyLvnTvWbqmnIoYI0_vPYQ4uU03W6A0NXy-HTF_bCO4qMLw/s1600/10930069_10101938942770271_3445134123850481090_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwoXAahm8gTthV1FqmQvKQgsXfL20EMF0QWa652gk0fbA2dRbRSqKIdryplXUJEmh2tjw0qnM267KDcSc1JhX7qpJzo3chyLvnTvWbqmnIoYI0_vPYQ4uU03W6A0NXy-HTF_bCO4qMLw/s1600/10930069_10101938942770271_3445134123850481090_n.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0fJXR2D7hW-DQzWE6Tk86s6RdBfXXeIJTZ1NvDlljzwsv2ws6Prn-Hu8VMXySZLS7tDqlcrRUflk73tQzKGlzxL2ELqXhdRgOg2WOxgNY0bn0Jy1FZIVQCxCpKX1OkV70npN9P2xH1dk/s1600/10888530_10101874357359951_5816278136906500375_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0fJXR2D7hW-DQzWE6Tk86s6RdBfXXeIJTZ1NvDlljzwsv2ws6Prn-Hu8VMXySZLS7tDqlcrRUflk73tQzKGlzxL2ELqXhdRgOg2WOxgNY0bn0Jy1FZIVQCxCpKX1OkV70npN9P2xH1dk/s1600/10888530_10101874357359951_5816278136906500375_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>Two months have passed since her birth, and I am still on the "birth high." I am no longer afraid to have babies. I could definitely have more. I know that God is in control of my life, and that He has made me whole again. I am happy to report that I did not have any PPD/PPA this time, and I know that it was because I was prepared, guided, and held in the loving embrace of Mother Mary and God the Father. I remind myself of their role in this beautiful experience every day, and when I say my daughter's name, I think of Mary... listening to my call and coming to my aid. Everything happens for a reason, and everything happens in His time. She will be baptized at the shrine of Our Lady of La Leche this spring. My heart overflows with love for this sweet child of God.KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-749341916474324762015-01-24T10:06:00.003-05:002015-01-24T10:06:47.710-05:00Back to BakingWell, I hate to say that it has been far too long since I have last updated my blog. Our home computer kicked the bucket about a year and 1/2 ago, so no blogging for me for quite a while. I have greatly missed it-- mostly because it was where I stored all of my recipes. I admit that I started this blog merely for selfish reasons. I have always had wonderful intentions of recording my homemade recipes in the adorable recipe card books I have been gifted throughout the years, but alas it never happens. I love the idea of a blog because I know exactly where to go to find my recipes again, and it makes it ever so easy to share my recipes. I have lost far too many recipes to the great abyss that is my ever constant mind in the year and 1/2 since I have blogged. I am beyond happy to say that I'm back, and I'm ready to bake (more like ready to record my recipes so that I can no longer forget how I tweaked something to make it "better").<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRWCkOLGiwQAb3ySqfspNPUY12BooyZ3DAkKlOLB7XCp3hvnunVH-A9MYeD-M97jTsTz-dOXr6os76h0bne-qw1FywgTGtMHaDSvb2ZSj_fvkaXtK11gUfdCeeEycLFI9M-c26W-SDj0/s1600/Obrien-010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRWCkOLGiwQAb3ySqfspNPUY12BooyZ3DAkKlOLB7XCp3hvnunVH-A9MYeD-M97jTsTz-dOXr6os76h0bne-qw1FywgTGtMHaDSvb2ZSj_fvkaXtK11gUfdCeeEycLFI9M-c26W-SDj0/s1600/Obrien-010.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family of four </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So, what has happened in my absence? Quite a bit has changed in our lives. This past November we welcomed a 4th member to our family. Doodle Bug has a little sister: Love Bug. I am so excited to update my blog with her amazing birth story. It will be our Birth Bonding Redo :) I have also learned to knit and crochet-- how was my life complete before this?? I absolutely love fiber arts, and I plan to record some of my favorite patterns on my blog as well.<br />
<br />
I am so sorry to everyone that sent in comments on my recipes while I was away. I know it's late, but I plan to get back to each one of you :)<br />
<br />
Happy 2015, and let the baking and crafting commence!KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-91139843810646205182013-10-04T16:00:00.000-04:002013-10-04T16:00:03.755-04:00Simple and Sweet Pumpkin Muffins<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtrmoRmsJcBdc1Bq-wJQFmV501T3kbPQjteatvEsiRbpiceYpU7l8mhxNuCuzf43ohOmkja1c1-hDptCig_apvc9kwXsf9T32lmXOWmbioKhbx13VeK3bf6Gcjm6jEJH8Nd0JpSfmo-A/s1600/photo+1(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtrmoRmsJcBdc1Bq-wJQFmV501T3kbPQjteatvEsiRbpiceYpU7l8mhxNuCuzf43ohOmkja1c1-hDptCig_apvc9kwXsf9T32lmXOWmbioKhbx13VeK3bf6Gcjm6jEJH8Nd0JpSfmo-A/s200/photo+1(3).JPG" width="200" /></a>Fall inspired baking commenced this past weekend. Saturday morning Doodle Bug woke up with a hankering for a pumpkin muffin. I didn't want to eat at Panera's again (where I knew they had pumpkin muffins), so off we went on a Mother-Daughter quest for the elusive pumpkin muffin. We first went to Sweet Theory, a local amazing vegan bakery, but they were not open. We then walked down the street and around the corner to the fabulous Cool Moose Cafe. Cool Moose has FABULOUS muffins that they slather with butter and GRILL for your gluttonous pleasure, but blueberry and morning glory muffins were not on Doodle Bug's immediate agenda (no matter that mom's mouth was watering at the thought of the crunch of the grilled muffin crust). So, off we went to Einstein Bagels, where at long last, the pumpkin muffin was discovered. She gobbled up her muffin in record time while I sipped my pumpkin spice coffee and reflected on the fun that we had seeking out our breakfast.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLr-vkjCU0WGxVn0QM_EdTUfRIcGMAhyfeaViW6KNttsAD1vplvOcsrJeDdBeoud_VdgFnrmZ3ROJ6ggFo35SfIFCnJe9sQi-OyItthOGkA9aYFOQidvSZoaM_1QSLrQtoQAW80Xd7gXs/s1600/photo(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLr-vkjCU0WGxVn0QM_EdTUfRIcGMAhyfeaViW6KNttsAD1vplvOcsrJeDdBeoud_VdgFnrmZ3ROJ6ggFo35SfIFCnJe9sQi-OyItthOGkA9aYFOQidvSZoaM_1QSLrQtoQAW80Xd7gXs/s200/photo(1).JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally! A pumpkin muffin!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Doodle Bug LOVES pumpkin. Have I mentioned that before? Probably at least 20 times by now. We first recognized her affinity for all things pumpkin last fall. I, on the other hand, do not enjoy the taste of pumpkin. I adore the spices used in fall baking, but the taste and texture of pumpkin does not strike my fancy. I find it hysterical that our little super, super, S-U-P-E-R picky eater loves pumpkin. It's great for her nutritionally, so I encourage the regular intake of this orange/slimy food (blasphemy, I know).<br />
<br />
So, after our morning fun I decided to take a shot at my own pumpkin muffins for her. I found a great recipe online, and I just adapted it to make it a little healthier for my toddler that doesn't understand portion control when it comes to pumpkin.<br />
<br />
Okay, so on with the recipe already....<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyHJs3UCAsSZ2Y6Uf6NUFRz52zIDSTzV-VncdKMvLmeFs7lzJbi2RXQzId7v1l1oElT7Ih4Wc36JJO8L8DxCSnHA7IcmD4E0PK4M989agLLPs6dJjGX4lVP6lw3cNBGlXS3f7WvoG98g/s1600/photo+3(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyHJs3UCAsSZ2Y6Uf6NUFRz52zIDSTzV-VncdKMvLmeFs7lzJbi2RXQzId7v1l1oElT7Ih4Wc36JJO8L8DxCSnHA7IcmD4E0PK4M989agLLPs6dJjGX4lVP6lw3cNBGlXS3f7WvoG98g/s200/photo+3(2).JPG" width="200" /></a>
<li>1 can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie)</li>
<li>A few TBSP maple syrup (because our family has a slight obsession with the maple goodness)</li>
<li>2 eggs</li>
<li>1-1/2 cup applesauce</li>
<li>2-1/2 cups flour</li>
<li>1/2 cup sugar white sugar</li>
<li>1/4 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1 TBSP pumpkin pie spice</li>
<li>1/2 tsp salt</li>
<li>1 tsp baking soda</li>
</ul>
<b>Maple Vanilla Glaze Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>A TBSP maple syrup</li>
<li>1/4 tsp good vanilla extract (I just Mexican vanilla) </li>
<li>a little confectioners sugar (maybe a TBSP) </li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 350.</li>
<li>In your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine pumpkin, applesauce, sugars, and maple syrup.</li>
<li>add in eggs and beat until combined. </li>
<li>sift together flour, pumpkin pie spice,salt, and baking soda.</li>
<li>Slowly add dry ingredients to wet- just mixing enough to incorporate all ingredients. </li>
<li>Use a large scoop and prepare muffin pans (either use paper cups or spray)</li>
<li>Bake for 25 or so minutes (until inserted tooth pick comes out clean).</li>
<li>Cool on wire racks before storing. </li>
<li>Combine ingredients for glaze and drizzle over top.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSPcgdE3J7U74-in6SXHKIrkBKS4MKczUOaUUgZhH6ar2i5oTjSKDOYZGgIUSgeNXivPAeTD_mPHPbrxn1K2BBvMaho2eGir4gdoDBT-nzcQTKqmVAA5esIJDB3cFJ3vZ0Dxz8nziorpE/s1600/photo+2(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSPcgdE3J7U74-in6SXHKIrkBKS4MKczUOaUUgZhH6ar2i5oTjSKDOYZGgIUSgeNXivPAeTD_mPHPbrxn1K2BBvMaho2eGir4gdoDBT-nzcQTKqmVAA5esIJDB3cFJ3vZ0Dxz8nziorpE/s200/photo+2(3).JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">little minis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
</ol>
<b>Yield:</b> 24 muffins; about 80 mini muffins (bake minis for 10-15 minutes)<br />
<br />
<br />
I have also made this recipe adding in chocolate chips-- that was a hit with my middle school students!<br />
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Enjoy! KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-33153765909581024222013-10-02T13:36:00.000-04:002013-10-08T12:49:33.019-04:00Scones for the FallSo, I have been on a scone baking kick for the past few weeks, and I think I have found my favorite recipe yet. It is officially October, so I can bust out the fall flavors and kick them into high gear!<br />
<br />
My husband has a work breakfast once a month, and this month I told him to sign me up for scones. They were so easy to make that I thought it would be the perfect easy addition to their breakfast buffet. Well, last night he informs me, "AH... tomorrow is breakfast club." I had a meeting at my church, so I knew I would have to whip up something simple when I got home. I came home at around 8:30, and the house was empty. Doodle Bug, dad, and Archer (the whippet) had gone for a walk. I decided to take this opportunity to create a fun scone flavor instead of just making my previous recipe.<br />
<br />
I found an interesting recipe for <a href="http://www.a-kitchen-addiction.com/maple-glazed-french-toast-scones/" target="_blank">French Toast Scones with a Maple Glaze</a>, so I thought I would take some ideas from this recipe as well as substituting some ingredients for what I had at home (no time to run to the grocery store!) and the flavors I like best. <br />
<br />
This recipe was super easy and produced the best scones I have ever tasted! It is definitely a must try during these fall months!<br />
<br />
Just a tip-- use Ceylon cinnamon-- there is absolutely NO comparison! <br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
<br />
<b> For the scones:</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDzMl5Sf1ZiAlb4lR6erl7iMSadaM1Ym6M8jJPGiHNolqwYY-vLlRZkdqjAma79I7XE1poZ96EYDpZYdbIkYCnje1xXUHfHR0aMkGo_tKV5RZ_GhfTrV3WkSiIxkuJH4T5sTm7VcuIU-I/s1600/photo+2(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDzMl5Sf1ZiAlb4lR6erl7iMSadaM1Ym6M8jJPGiHNolqwYY-vLlRZkdqjAma79I7XE1poZ96EYDpZYdbIkYCnje1xXUHfHR0aMkGo_tKV5RZ_GhfTrV3WkSiIxkuJH4T5sTm7VcuIU-I/s320/photo+2(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>2 cups flour</li>
<li>1/4 cup sugar</li>
<li>2 TBSP brown sugar</li>
<li>1 tsp baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 tsp baking soda</li>
<li>1/2 tsp salt</li>
<li>2 tsp cinnamon</li>
<li>1/4 tsp all spice</li>
<li>1/4 tsp ginger</li>
<li>1/8 tsp clove</li>
<li>1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice</li>
<li>1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)</li>
<li>1 cup heavy whipping cream</li>
<li>1/4 tsp vanilla</li>
<li>1 egg, beaten</li>
</ul>
<b>For the cinnamon sugar topping</b>:<br />
<ul>
<li>2 TBSP sugar</li>
<li>1/4 tsp cinnamon </li>
</ul>
<b>For the glaze:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 tsp pure organic amber honey</li>
<li>1-2 tsp pure maple syrup</li>
<li>2 tsp milk</li>
<li>1 tsp heavy whipping cream (or more if needed)</li>
<li>1 pinch cinnamon and all spice</li>
<li>1 TBSP or more powdered sugar (to thicken) </li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 350.</li>
<li>In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, all spice, clove, and pumpkin pie spice.</li>
<li>Cut cold butter into the four mixture. You can use a pastry fork or two forks. mixture should look like small crumbs. I always grate my butter first (just makes it easier to evenly distribute). </li>
<li>In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together heavy whipping cream, egg, and vanilla. </li>
<li>Make a well in the center of the flour and butter mixture. Pour cream mixture in the center and fold in so that all the ingredients are combined. </li>
<li>I wanted to make more than 8 scones for this recipe, so I used a medium scoop. Scoop onto pan lined with parchment paper.</li>
<li>Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture on top and brush with heavy cream. </li>
<li>Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned (I always rotate my pans 1/2 way through baking because I have a gas oven). </li>
<li>Take scones out and let cool on a wire rack.</li>
<li>Prepare glaze: combine all glaze ingredients together and drizzle over cooled scones. Allow glaze to set before storing.</li>
<li>Best eaten within 24 hours. </li>
</ol>
<b>Yield:</b> 18 small round scones. <br />
<br />
These are DELISH!<br />
<br />KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-87389416618960560242013-09-14T14:42:00.000-04:002013-09-14T14:43:02.474-04:00Scones for the KiddosI'M BACK! Man, I can't believe it's been since April that I have posted! My laptop, the gentle green girl (that I have had since the spring of 2007), finally crashed for the last time this summer. Actually, the cord literally broke off into the computer. No use trying to spend any money saving that bad boy.<br />
<br />
The husband and I are both teachers, so we have iPads and nice school computers, so we didn't think it would be necessary to really have a home computer. Well, I didn't take into account that I would have to "check in" my school laptop for the summer, so no blogging for me for a few months. There are so many awesome recipes that I wish I could have shared (honestly, mainly for my own selfish reasons, because I ALWAYS forget the recipes which is why I started the blog in the first place). I thought that if I typed them up and posted them out on the blogosphere they could never be lost again. So far, it has worked-- with the minor exception of this summer.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlMFpiPuNJmqdq0GHjClAnUJwP-wy-PqpBkWwiASeAeRpl3U_e2n60VDW0-apVzkDPHsWKyrYihdf5e330h9eAx4c62s67MviSNWqiyijNgNS5rotCBJpll_yyrKpioR6upTqS-SyAZg/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlMFpiPuNJmqdq0GHjClAnUJwP-wy-PqpBkWwiASeAeRpl3U_e2n60VDW0-apVzkDPHsWKyrYihdf5e330h9eAx4c62s67MviSNWqiyijNgNS5rotCBJpll_yyrKpioR6upTqS-SyAZg/s200/image.jpeg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cover to my book :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, we are 1/2 way through the first quarter, and I can't believe how fast time is passing. I say this every year, but it is true every year. One of the many reasons why I love what I do is that time passes quickly. I am constantly moving, changing, adapting, and growing, and my students are doing the same. I get to do something completely different every day, and get paid to talk about all the geeky things I love. It doesn't get much better than that! I am still (5 years into it) at the point in my career where I firmly believe on each pay day, "I can't believe I just got paid for that!" Granted, a teacher does not a millionaire (or anywhere close to one) make. I don't need a million dollars though; I'm not even sure what I'd spend that kind of money on... well, I'm sure I could find SOME use for it if I had to... maybe copper cookware, an extra ( or larger) bathroom (we just have the ONE, tiny bathroom), a European adventure for the whole family, lactation support for all women that need it, etc. Who knows?? I digress...<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFHZrCSWR51gE-Tvz4PrWl3ezFiewRC7oIUy7c3jHerboXhQ6a0JPzK7wOWu1WPqYNXBxo4OEznldOZ46uRG5kHSN3uni0FDureGqDT7CROQEoTAQuuUccV_LXwoTGQnDQIIzQ924Ugs/s1600/image(1).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFHZrCSWR51gE-Tvz4PrWl3ezFiewRC7oIUy7c3jHerboXhQ6a0JPzK7wOWu1WPqYNXBxo4OEznldOZ46uRG5kHSN3uni0FDureGqDT7CROQEoTAQuuUccV_LXwoTGQnDQIIzQ924Ugs/s200/image(1).jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sample student work</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcF4pfI1UjSyqm9S0bfUNyIGQx6pVjqqvYrvEyybEH2ZKutpcxgaN93Shpa7qEEQcDjbFWka8aSl7hUrVepqrjVYXWNheEQe66IDKpbs4uBjxVT7nlZa506m7-7tu9I8WnMEkkbKnDBS4/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcF4pfI1UjSyqm9S0bfUNyIGQx6pVjqqvYrvEyybEH2ZKutpcxgaN93Shpa7qEEQcDjbFWka8aSl7hUrVepqrjVYXWNheEQe66IDKpbs4uBjxVT7nlZa506m7-7tu9I8WnMEkkbKnDBS4/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My model for the Literary Genre assessment</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllKlX7dghrJBtHrb3UOyS03xUxsj9G_ADdtqbdCQQ8yGGTC2MEGzJD3JoxDiSVNBB4rq6__ZtgA8t3kIX6T1s30cMrJX5LjH2UFpUfcj3CvtNS-YAkwytHwguCak-YtbnjbdX2jJBuaE/s1600/image(2).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllKlX7dghrJBtHrb3UOyS03xUxsj9G_ADdtqbdCQQ8yGGTC2MEGzJD3JoxDiSVNBB4rq6__ZtgA8t3kIX6T1s30cMrJX5LjH2UFpUfcj3CvtNS-YAkwytHwguCak-YtbnjbdX2jJBuaE/s200/image(2).jpeg" width="200" /></a>I had to bring my computer home this weekend to work on some lessons for my 7th grade Reading classes. I am totally revamping my curriculum this year for 7th grade, so I practically feel like a first year teacher again. All the LONG hours gathering supplies and creating my models have re-energized my teacher spirit. I had forgotten how much fun it was to create something new! This year I'm implementing Interactive Student Notebooks with my 7th Reading classes. The DAY before school started I was browsing Pinterest-- nothing new about that haha--, but this time I came across a brilliant idea, the ISN. I found the blog, <a href="http://everybodyisageniusblog.blogspot.com/p/interactive-notebooks.html" target="_blank">Everybody is a Genius</a> and became hooked. I had ONE day, but I knew I HAD to to this! I barely slept that first week of school. I bought resources from <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Lovin-Lit" target="_blank">I'm Lovin Lit's</a> Teachers Pay Teachers store (she has fantastic freebees, too!). The student examples are from the unit I purchased from her. I dove in, and I haven't looked back. It has been fantastic so far-- it keeps the students organized, and allows them to use their particular interests and learning styles to express their knowledge of the subject. I could go on and on about how much I love this notebook, but I'll save that for another blog post.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE_vTM5j8y7k3piyHlUn0KP8vPF6nmLo7qH4uWlAi9bKghkLCiSv-cEhMVIV5nYdIvCkwuvHPsopusAfp-gwD_nlBZ194GMrNwqaKHmMuDz6CYjZIpTt8qg5Er8OghPiIuz6rgN-PjX6w/s1600/scones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE_vTM5j8y7k3piyHlUn0KP8vPF6nmLo7qH4uWlAi9bKghkLCiSv-cEhMVIV5nYdIvCkwuvHPsopusAfp-gwD_nlBZ194GMrNwqaKHmMuDz6CYjZIpTt8qg5Er8OghPiIuz6rgN-PjX6w/s200/scones.jpg" width="200" /></a>So, the scones already, right?! Well, about two weeks ago doodle bug started school and subsequently had her first cold ever (how did we make it 2 years??), and ended up with an ear infection... only took 1 day at preschool to get sick. I had to leave work early to take her back to the doctor yesterday to make sure she was all healed up and ready to fly next weekend. I can imagine that an ear infection and planes do not mix well. She was all clear, and according to my sub (who also happens to be my lovely mother), my homeroom students were "angels." I told them before I left that if they were 100% perfect for my mother (whom would never lie to me), then I would make them breakfast for Monday. That was all it took-- the promise of a baked good. So, scones it is. I had actually never attempted scones before, but was excited to finally give it a proper shot.<br />
<br />
I found an amazing recipe on Food Network's website. Tyler Florence's <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/blueberry-scones-with-lemon-glaze-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">Blueberry Scones Recipe</a> looked too delicious to pass up. I pretty much followed his directions and recipe. I did not make the glaze (it looks delicious, but would be too messy for the classroom), but instead added lemon zest to the dough. I also used the same base recipe but swapped the blueberries for chocolate chips for the second batch. I needed about 24 scones. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Blueberry Scones</b></div>
<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>2 cups all purpose flour</li>
<li>1 TBSP baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 tsp salt</li>
<li>2 TBSP sugar</li>
<li>5 TBSP unsalted cold unsalted butter (I grated this because I did not have a pastry tool to help me incorporate it into the dough)</li>
<li>1 cup blueberries (I used frozen)</li>
<li>lemon zest to taste </li>
<li>1 cup heavy whipping cream (plus more for brushing on top)</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions:</b> <br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 400</li>
<li>sift together dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar</li>
<li>Using a fork (or pasty tool), cut in butter. I grated my butter first. The butter coats the flour and the mixture should look like course crumbs. </li>
<li>fold in blueberries and lemon zest-- be careful not to smash! I may have squished one in the process ;)</li>
<li>Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in cream. </li>
<li>Fold everything in just to incorporate-- do NOT over mix! </li>
<li>Line baking sheet with parchment, and use large scoop to distribute mixture. </li>
<li>Brush with cream and sprinkle with sugar </li>
<li>Bake for 15 or so minutes (until lightly brown)</li>
</ol>
They came out SO delicious!<br />
<br />
For the chocolate scones I followed the same recipe-- I just used 1 cup chocolate chips in place of blueberries. I did a mixture of white, milk, dark, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. <br />
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I will use this recipe again and again! I hope you like it, too! Happy Baking :)KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-65066834800448546022013-04-29T17:37:00.000-04:002013-04-29T17:37:23.247-04:00Husband's *Favorite* Chocolate Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh44ilamtXIe1woe3_h3PP5MyjaXJ0rf7VRoMNH_0LR5rWJweMbetaNzfvzmD-XW7_D0eiSgbhO6u-hodVEr1tefeG3dvCnmLHBFhfxqgnvq-UkfuRWpUE-tvik8cdJUtwpIuHMDKIT8sQ/s1600/cupcakes1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh44ilamtXIe1woe3_h3PP5MyjaXJ0rf7VRoMNH_0LR5rWJweMbetaNzfvzmD-XW7_D0eiSgbhO6u-hodVEr1tefeG3dvCnmLHBFhfxqgnvq-UkfuRWpUE-tvik8cdJUtwpIuHMDKIT8sQ/s320/cupcakes1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The husband celebrates one more lap around the sun tomorrow, and when I asked him what he would like as a treat to celebrate such a milestone, he responded with, "chocolate cupcakes with coffee buttercream!" I didn't really need to ask, because the answer is the same every year. He loves this cake so much that I instinctively purchase the ingredients every April. I wish I could say that I am to credit for the recipe of his FAVORITE dessert, but alas, I am not.<br />
<br />
When my husband and I were first married I looked far and wide for a chocolate cake recipe for his birthday. I wanted to wow him with my baking skills AND put to work my new Kitchen Aid stand mixer that I was able to purchase with wedding gift cards (thanks to awesome friends and family). I stumbled upon <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/beattys-chocolate-cake-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">Barefoot Contessa</a>'s Beatty's Chocolate Cake recipe and haven't looked back. It's a winner EVERY time, and it's ridiculously easy (so much for showing off my skills)!<br />
<br />
I don't even eat chocolate (GASP-- I know, what kind of a woman doesn't eat chocolate? But if you suffered from severe migraines due to food allergies, you wouldn't be eager to eat chocolate either-- I'm<br />
happy avoid it!), so when I make this recipe I freeze about 1/2 of the cupcakes/ cake for future events.<br />
<br />
**Fun fact-- the first time I made this cake my husband ate so much of it in one day that he made himself sick-- really, I'm shocked he even still likes it** <br />
<br />
Usually I follow Ina's recipe exactly... sometimes I will add a little a little ceylon cinnamon to add a little spice.<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 3/4 cups all purpose flour</li>
<li>2 cups granulated sugar</li>
<li>3/4 cup good cocoa powder (I use the special dark because my husband LOVES dark chocolate)</li>
<li>2 teaspoons baking soda</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1 teaspoon kosher salt</li>
<li>1 cup buttermilk (shaken)</li>
<li>1/2 cup vegetable oil</li>
<li>2 extra large eggs (room temperature-- you don't want cooked eggs in your cupcakes!)</li>
<li>1 teaspoon pure (good) vanilla extract-- I use Madagascar vanilla from <a href="http://www.greenmangourmet.com/" target="_blank">Green Man Gourmet</a> in Avondale-- they are awesome!</li>
<li>1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee (brings out the rich flavor of the chocolate-- cake doesn't taste much like coffee believe it or not)</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 350 and line muffin tins. </li>
<li>In your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, mix: flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa on low until combined.</li>
<li>In a small mixing bowl, stir together the buttermilk, eggs, oil, and vanilla. </li>
<li>With the mixer on low, slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry. </li>
<li>Add the cup of hot coffee and stir only to combine (make sure to scrape down sides and bottom of bowl). </li>
<li>Pour batter into a glass measuring cup with spout (this will make pouring batter into muffin tins easier-- batter is very thin). Fill each muffin tin 1/2 full (no more or cake will spill over). </li>
<li>Bake for about 15 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out clean. </li>
<li>I swear it is just that easy!</li>
</ol>
**I usually make 1-2 dozen cupcakes and then pour the rest of the batter into small rounds, bake for about 25-30 minutes, and freeze for later occasions** <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Vanilla Coffee Buttercream </b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's taken me a few times to perfect my attempts with coffee buttercream, but I do believe that this recipe is my favorite so far! I used the base of the recipe from <a href="http://www.thekitchenismyplayground.com/2011/07/best-vanilla-cupcake-best-coffee.html" target="_blank">The Kitchen is my Playground</a> and then just made it work with what I had in my kitchen. I didn't have instant coffee, so I adapted the recipe using fresh brewed and then chilled coffee. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Ingredients: </b></div>
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAq9UnOemvWQQKa4shOfiUGSgCzo5QAvCgjMgtFW89eb2N7CdvvZZS8DmRciIuE9yWeFm33wIs91T17IlJBO5Zye6qq_2AhWYl4OS5SiODrpnBkZj5mnHcQzjVKWPRLZdUT9ZD8gVGbY/s1600/cupcakes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAq9UnOemvWQQKa4shOfiUGSgCzo5QAvCgjMgtFW89eb2N7CdvvZZS8DmRciIuE9yWeFm33wIs91T17IlJBO5Zye6qq_2AhWYl4OS5SiODrpnBkZj5mnHcQzjVKWPRLZdUT9ZD8gVGbY/s320/cupcakes2.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<li>4 Tablespoons freshly brewed and chilled coffee </li>
<li>1 Tablespoon real Madagascar vanilla extract </li>
<li>3 sticks unsalted (softened) butter</li>
<li>3 cups confectioners sugar</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<ol>
<li>Beat softened butter in bowl of stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on medium speed for about 1 minute or until fluffy. </li>
<li>Turn speed to low and add confectioners sugar one cup at a time (scrape down sides and make sure it is fully incorporated).</li>
<li>Increase speed to medium and beat for about 3 minutes.</li>
<li>Add coffee and beat on low speed to combine. Scrape down sides and increase speed to medium and beat for about 4 minutes. </li>
<li>Fill pastry bag and have fun piping away! I added a little dark chocolate chip to the top just for a little extra decoration. </li>
</ol>
**should make enough to frost 24 cupcakes** <br />
<br />
Happy 31st birthday to the best husband in the whole entire world. Doodle Bug and I are so lucky to have you! <br />
KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-61151207001635328222013-04-20T11:20:00.000-04:002013-04-20T11:20:53.407-04:00The Adventures in Potty TrainingSo the day has finally come... and much earlier than we expected... Doodle Bug is interested in the potty.<br />
<br />
We decided awhile back that we were just going to wait and follow her cues to see when she wanted to start potty training. We didn't want to rush anything, and thought that we would just let nature and curiosity run its course. Last weekend we followed her cues... right to the toilet.<br />
<br />
For about two months or so we have been concerned thinking that DB was constipated. She seemed like she was having a hard time going and looked to be very uncomfortable. We upped her Greek yogurt intake, added more dried fruit (especially raisins-- her fav!), encouraged an increase in her water consumption, and laced her sippy cup with a daily probiotic. I increased my water intake as well, and encouraged her to nurse more often, but with all our efforts she STILL seemed to be uncomfortable. What were we to do?? Well, we had our answer last weekend.<br />
<br />
Last Friday, while at work, my MIL sent me a text message.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Ev just took off her diaper and peed on the floor!" </b></blockquote>
I couldn't help but respond with,<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"bahahahah"</b></blockquote>
Everyone at school thought that for sure this was a sign of readiness to toilet train, but I was skeptical. I am a first time mom, and certainly 21 months is too early to know to potty train, right?? I mean, okay, maybe the girl just likes a little fresh air on her cheeks? So, the husband and I got a little laugh out of the floor peeing at Grammy's house episode, and then we shrugged it off as toddler exploration. Until Saturday morning that is...<br />
<br />
DB likes to wake up at the same time every day. She has her set routine (one that neither my husband nor I could take credit for setting) and likes to stick to it. She has been going to sleep between 9-10 P.M. and waking for the day at around 7 A.M. since 3 weeks old (she still wakes to night nurse as well). So, at around 7 in the morning last Saturday DB and I went to go play in her room. I left to make my coffee, and when I returned I could tell she was struggling to have a BM. Her little face gets so red, and she arches her back, and it just looks like an all around horrible experience. I was frustrated-- why was she STILL struggling after all the changes to her diet??? And then I realized something, maybe she just doesn't WANT to go. Maybe she doesn't like the feel of poop in her diaper... I mean, who would??<br />
<br />
With my new found revelation on hand, I decided to put my theory to work. Recently (with in the past month or two) DB's communication skills have taken off. She went from saying only a few words (dada, mommy, pup, Nana, Pop, Granky (for Grampy), ball, egg, etc.) to speaking in full sentences. Last week she turned to me and said, "I'm going to go read a book." I almost cried. I mean my daughter, my "little tiny baby" as we call her is speaking-- fluently. Plus, the English teacher inside jumps for joy anytime I see her WANTING to read. I digress.<br />
<br />
I decided to ask DB questions to see if I could get to the bottom of her uncomfortable situation. I asked, "do you need to go poopy?" She nodded yes. I continued. "Would you like to go sit on the big potty like mommy and daddy do when they need to use the restroom?" She nodded yes. Now, she knows all about the toilet because we always take her into the bathroom to flush the waste from her dirty diapers. She waves "bye, bye," and we flush. She also sometimes accompanies me to the bathroom when my husband has late track meets or soccer games. She is a wild one, and if left alone for even 1/2 a minute she will have found a way to scale a wall, or the entertainment center, or dining room table (yes, this has happened- more than once). She loves to flush the toilet and always claps and says, "yay! I did it!" <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyLy6Ax_kvr2sVKF5BNiNKGQwSEYMr5tfL7Pt1newEhAfRILlMS9TINPQKmDJ2WHL0_Rq89cPpPHnQ7RMqT_DC9TZRiN0mPHNVX0D8ydu9-Yom3vq1vA4AtNLupl30oMRfHSlCE7mIlc/s1600/298024_10100874763459141_1650345067_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyLy6Ax_kvr2sVKF5BNiNKGQwSEYMr5tfL7Pt1newEhAfRILlMS9TINPQKmDJ2WHL0_Rq89cPpPHnQ7RMqT_DC9TZRiN0mPHNVX0D8ydu9-Yom3vq1vA4AtNLupl30oMRfHSlCE7mIlc/s200/298024_10100874763459141_1650345067_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">not actually using the restroom here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, without hoping TOO much, I took her to the restroom. I sat her on the pot, and within a minute... well, it's all history from there! I was right... she wasn't constipated anymore! She was literally holding it in because she didn't want to poop her pants. She didn't have the vocabulary to ask us to go to the potty, but now she does.<br />
<br />
I went and bought the most adorable froggy training potty for her, and we have been working on encouraging her to use it. She understands what it is used for, but has only really had one other successful attempt-- though she did need a little help from her friend<i> Go Dog Go</i>. **she is not actually using the restroom in the picture to the right. She is reenacting the 2nd successful potty event from Thursday night. I read her the book while she sat on the pot, and then yesterday she ran back to the potty with her book to read... haha!**<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCYc8m2nU4yvPwUCMYHZn1oJtSegqxEJpXKN09sWh8hPabj1Vvfi7i4ND08q_v9GdlcuHEIS9nUHSWiifhlSkOXNhuZN2F6dpARY_Wmv426kVqVD23l1qmwKcmEyUa5cyGVj0cq3Z18BQ/s1600/DSC03979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCYc8m2nU4yvPwUCMYHZn1oJtSegqxEJpXKN09sWh8hPabj1Vvfi7i4ND08q_v9GdlcuHEIS9nUHSWiifhlSkOXNhuZN2F6dpARY_Wmv426kVqVD23l1qmwKcmEyUa5cyGVj0cq3Z18BQ/s320/DSC03979.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DB's Montessori Room</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On Monday she asked to go "pee pee" and ran to her room. We have a Montessori style playroom/ bedroom for her, so the toilet area is in her room. I opened her door, took off her diaper, and she placed herself on the potty. About a minute later she got distracted by her own image in the mirror (vain much??) and stood up to go talk to "the baby." Needless to say, she peed on the floor. But, at least she asked to go to the potty, right?<br />
<br />
So, the adventure in potty training has just begun in our home, but since we are following her cues and not forcing the issue, it has not been difficult or stressful. We just take it (like everything else that accompanies parenting) one day at a time. My mom told me I was her earliest to potty train, and that I showed an interest at about 23 months and was potty trained by my 2nd birthday. Maybe big girl underwear will be in the works as a 2nd birthday present :)<br />
<br />KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-51372502502267786042013-04-15T20:01:00.001-04:002013-04-15T20:04:16.229-04:00Track Meet MuffinsWhat to do with leftover bananas from the husband's high school district track meet? Make banana muffins! I didn't already have a recipe that I LOVED, so I searched banana muffin recipes on my All Recipes app on my nifty I Phone until I found one that I could use as a base recipe. The recipe I decided on had a five star rating (with 2,058 ratings under its belt)! Wow, if that many people were impressed, I knew I just had to try it!<br />
<br />
This was a use whatever is in the pantry/ refrigerator recipe, so I tried to add a little something for each one of us to make it incorporate our favorite flavors. For Doodle Bug I added raisins, for the husband I added my homemade spice blend, and for myself I added dried apricots and craisins. I always like to add in yummy extras to suit my family's taste buds.I also took the liberty of squeezing in a little iron and omega 3 by adding flax :)<br />
<br />
This recipe is super easy! I'll include the original recipe ingredient list first-- then I will add my extra ingredients spin on it. <br />
<br />
<b>Base recipe from All Recipes: </b><br />
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uSr7VzQi8by_ZU7k47pv8_XaAddFQMl6mWBns7X3ZXQFmNw0PktNr5zUv0a5bfUAuoxv4nXL4gKxWCboZwq6NgWAQVi-vly1YvuvuOQ7LQ61Ui0heIlqRp8F0Fgn5Lh53mY1dBPJS24/s1600/banana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uSr7VzQi8by_ZU7k47pv8_XaAddFQMl6mWBns7X3ZXQFmNw0PktNr5zUv0a5bfUAuoxv4nXL4gKxWCboZwq6NgWAQVi-vly1YvuvuOQ7LQ61Ui0heIlqRp8F0Fgn5Lh53mY1dBPJS24/s320/banana.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<li>1 1/2 cup all purpose flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>3 large bananas, mashed</li>
<li>3/4 cup granulated sugar</li>
<li>1 egg </li>
<li>1/3 cup butter (softened)</li>
</ul>
<b>What I added: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>1/2 cup organic flaxseed meal </li>
<li>a handful of rasisins</li>
<li>a handful of craisins </li>
<li>a handful of dried apricots</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon homemade Pumpkin Pie spice blend (you can find my recipe <a href="http://www.onesmartcook.blogspot.com/2012/10/pumpkin-pie-spice-cookies.html" target="_blank">here</a>)</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon ceylon cinnamon (once you go Ceylon, you NEVER go back!)</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon Madagascar vanilla extract </li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>Preheat oven to 350 and prepare muffin tins.</li>
<li>In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment,cream softened butter and sugar</li>
<li>add mashed banana</li>
<li>add vanilla extract </li>
<li>add egg</li>
<li>In a small bowl, sift together flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and spice blend.</li>
<li>Fold in flour mixture, dried fruit, and flax (do not over mix-- will make tough muffins)</li>
<li>For large muffins-- bake for 20-25 minutes or until inserted toothpick is clean </li>
</ul>
<b>Yield:</b> approximately 17 large muffins <br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-90682625718001661422013-03-23T22:53:00.004-04:002013-03-23T22:57:39.003-04:00AP Our Way: BreastfeedingOften times: I second guess myself, I worry...I worry some more which leads to panic, I doubt my abilities, and I lack the ability to make a simple decision. But with all the self doubt clouding my judgement, one confident decision I made has subsequently changed my life forever.<br />
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**I WILL breastfeed my daughter.**</div>
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I researched, read books, and watched countless video tutorials (BOOBIES!! J/K I'm totally a visual/ kinesthetic learner-- smacked you real quick with my teacher lingo). I needed the books and videos because I did not have anyone in real life to ask for advice from. My mom and grandmothers did not nurse. I was the first of my sisters to get married and have a baby. Only a few of my close friends were married, and none of them were even thinking about birthing and lactating. Everyone that I talked to about nursing always used the verb *tried*. I didn't want to <b><i>try</i></b>.<br />
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I knew it was the right choice for our family, and was ready to put up the personal fight to make it happen. It was a spiritual journey for me, and I wish I had started this blog before my pregnancy-- really just so I could look back and laugh at my transformation. <br />
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<b>Transformation #1</b>-- choosing to breastfed in general. I was "that girl" that thought breastfeeding was gross. It made me uncomfortable; it made me cringe. I had not grown up with learning about nursing. All my baby dolls had pacifiers and bottles. I had a boyfriend in high school that had a mom that was still nursing her toddler, and I seriously thought it was absurd (give that baby a fork and a spoon). I knew nothing, and was not interested in enlightening myself. <br />
<br />
I have two specific memories from my early adult years that I now, when I think back and remember, I cringe for different reasons... I cringe out of embarrassment for my lack of knowledge at the time. <br />
<ol>
<li>I was in college, and while shopping I saw a mother nursing her child. She was on an aisle by herself, but for some reason I was bothered when I saw her breastfeeding. I can't wrap my head around why other than to think that it was due to my lack of knowledge and judgmental attitude. I never said anything to her, but I did judge her. Now I wonder how many people judge me when they see me nursing in public. I hope they are blessed enough to "learn" about the wonders of breastfeeding one day, too. </li>
<li>My husband and I were in Mass with our family when I noticed a new mom wearing a nursing cover and breastfeeding not far from us. I was confused-- why not just give the baby a bottle? All I could think about was that this woman had her boob out in church! Now, when I see scantly clad teenagers in Mass, I often think back to that mom... why was I sexualizing her desire to nourish her child? </li>
</ol>
One day while on Facebook (way before the thought of Doodle Bug entered our minds) a friend of ours posted a picture of her toddler's first solids feeding. She mashed up avocado with breast milk, and took pictures of the mess her cutie made trying to "eat" the new food. I.WAS.APPALLED. I told my husband that day that I hoped he didn't expect me to breastfeed-- because it was <strike>not</strike> NEVER going to happen. Never say never, right??<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMAj4Ww7I7DnYOPhf-XBJMumf7OD51HX6b1SWGJsZA6ayZPl87XLFEqZyg_vfMK6T5znlLymz6_y6n8mMrLWoOdeCeSfJKMFUo3CbJpOL0lMM-CTdxfNmfTXce7Ue-4xWnPZL9DX6qDwg/s1600/milk2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMAj4Ww7I7DnYOPhf-XBJMumf7OD51HX6b1SWGJsZA6ayZPl87XLFEqZyg_vfMK6T5znlLymz6_y6n8mMrLWoOdeCeSfJKMFUo3CbJpOL0lMM-CTdxfNmfTXce7Ue-4xWnPZL9DX6qDwg/s320/milk2.png" width="320" /></a>The transformation began when, in my first trimester, I started thinking about where the hell we would keep all of the baby junk that would be needed to raise our child (later I realized most of this "junk" was senseless and useless, and that expert marketing advertisements try to make the first time parent believe they CAN'T survive parenting without stuff). Our house was built in the 1940s and is about 1200 square feet. We have three small bedrooms, one tiny bathroom, and a kitchen that's about 100 sf. The answer was: we have no room for bottle/ formula storage.<br />
<br />
Then I started to think about waking in the middle of the night to feed. Did I really want to walk to the kitchen, make the bottle, warm the bottle, feed the now WIDE awake infant, and then TRY to get said infant back to sleep, while trying to make sure I had enough sleep to teach 100 students each day? The answer was: <strike>no</strike> HELL NO. <br />
<br />
Okay, so I was going to breastfeed, and since I knew nothing at all, I had to hit the books (and the web) hard.<br />
<br />
I became engulfed in the literature. I was amazed-- the science of breastfeeding still awes me to this day. I was learning, and through the knowledge I gained I started my transformation to mother-- mind, body, and soul.<br />
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<b>Cool facts that I learned about breastfeeding from WHO:</b></div>
<b>Did you know (because I certainly didn't): </b><br />
<ol><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioI1Yf08YSbQixztrgncgtsJClGKxToO3sopwQcUGZIWXmZbZLL1VlfosmG7vXkbFLv1Y9AoT6VanZtZgihuKFibz-nz131UyynzE9abZidHoN76wu8pUZZ8t0LQO4lj-J9V4nGAkpEak/s1600/bfinglogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioI1Yf08YSbQixztrgncgtsJClGKxToO3sopwQcUGZIWXmZbZLL1VlfosmG7vXkbFLv1Y9AoT6VanZtZgihuKFibz-nz131UyynzE9abZidHoN76wu8pUZZ8t0LQO4lj-J9V4nGAkpEak/s200/bfinglogo.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li>BM contains antibodies that protects the newborn/infant/toddler from common childhood illnesses that increase child mortality worldwide.</li>
<li>BFing can act as natural family planning (a natural form of birth control). Your body prevents itself from getting pregnant in those first few months in order to protect the newborn's nutritional needs.</li>
<li>BFing can decrease mom's chance of getting breast cancer and ovarian cancer. </li>
<li>BM lowers the chance of childhood obesity. </li>
<li>Adults who were breastfed as babies often have lower blood pressure and
lower cholesterol, as well as lower rates of overweight, obesity and
type-2 diabetes.</li>
<li>There is evidence that people who were breastfed perform better in intelligence tests.</li>
</ol>
I mean, after reading all that, how could I still say "no"?<br />
<br />
My passion to have a successful breastfeeding relationship led me to question my ability to birth, and resulted in a scheduled C-Section. You can read more about my daughter's <a href="http://www.onesmartcook.blogspot.com/2013/01/ap-our-way-birth-bonding.html" target="_blank">birth</a> in a prior post. In recovery she was placed in my arms, and I was instructed by the recovery nurse to "stick it out." She advised me that "the first two weeks were the worst," and that I would be happy later when I stuck it out. I am so glad she told me this... because those first two weeks were worse than I had ever expected!<br />
<br />
I kept my daughter at the breast anytime she was awake. I was cracked, sore, and bleeding by the end of the first week. I had to firmly grasp the side of my glider and bite down on my giant straw every time she latched. It. was. miserable. My husband was amazing-- he made appointments with the lactation consultants, drove us to the appointments, and even called my OB/GYN when we realized that I was having severe PPA. I seriously don't know if I would have been able to "stick out" those first few weeks without his love and support. By week two, just as the nurse had suggested, Doodle Bug and I were both starting to get the hang of it. I didn't expect the journey to be so difficult. I didn't realize it was a learning process for both mother AND baby... as a matter of fact, just the other day when Doodle Bug accidentally bit down while nursing and talking I had to remind myself that it is STILL a learning process. Isn't that parenthood in general though? <br />
<br />
<b>What I love about breastfeeding: </b><br />
<ol><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYCG-qp26Oc2219e3l2XpzXC2Oz7WCWaY_1w5jZdS6jGM30IiYaTO5LR4WiX8Ei6VhsbEE0kXMJlzT7NnoM2v5YaeGuGmg4sFnnlSGHk3TcWujx0OEj4wH-KMcrtO2LrUTxaaudVTGHY/s1600/nurse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYCG-qp26Oc2219e3l2XpzXC2Oz7WCWaY_1w5jZdS6jGM30IiYaTO5LR4WiX8Ei6VhsbEE0kXMJlzT7NnoM2v5YaeGuGmg4sFnnlSGHk3TcWujx0OEj4wH-KMcrtO2LrUTxaaudVTGHY/s320/nurse.jpg" width="252" /></a>
<li>I love that my body (pretty much exclusively) was able to sustain the life of my child for the first year of life.</li>
<li>I love that my daughter has been completely healthy for the first 21 months of her life.</li>
<li>I love that when I now see a mom nursing her baby my heart overflows with the love I feel for my child.</li>
<li>I love that we were able to easily travel with her (milk on tap!)</li>
<li>I love that when she falls down, scratches her knee, gets scared, etc I can easily comfort her. </li>
<li>I love that she intuitively knows how to increase/ alter my milk supply to fit her nutritional needs (this STILL amazes me).</li>
<li>I love that when I was exhausted due to the job of nursing a wiggly toddler (she was about 16 months old) she climbed down off me and the couch went to go play, but hesitated and turned back around and said "tank choo, mama."</li>
<li>I love that she giggles now when after a long day of mom working all day we are finally able to sit down on the couch to nurse. </li>
<li>I love when I hear her trying to hum a tune while nursing and tracing her finger on my chest making little shapes. </li>
<li>I love the confidence in myself, my body, and my decisions this amazing breastfeeding relationship has provided me.</li>
</ol>
** what don't I love?? THE PUMP. That thing can die. twice. 11 months of pumping multiple times a day while at work... THAT is exhausting! I have an insane amount of respect for moms that exclusively pump!**<br />
<br />
Oh, and biting and hair pulling, too-- those are no fun as well. <br />
<br />
I am so happy with my decision, and I love advocating for breastfeeding. I started up my <a href="http://smartlactationcookies.webs.com/" target="_blank">Lactation Cookie Company</a> in January so that I could help other moms that might have been in the same boat as me-- wanting to nurse, and reaching out for help from those around them.<br />
<br />
I truly believe that breastfeeding has made me a more confident woman, and subsequently a confident mother.<br />
<br />
Now I better go get some rest... my toddler will be up for her midnight snack in just a few short hours :) Our philosophy? When the baby cries... Feed it-- that's our approach to AP and BFing. No need for a schedule. She lets us know when she is hungry, tired, needs to be changed, wants to be held... we are just here to follow her cues.<br />
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KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-63753719629540988622013-03-18T21:18:00.000-04:002013-03-18T21:36:01.985-04:00Not your average politically incorrect brownie <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobaulx6G1-1GK7fc__P6uptDea2PdJe8k3OfK6WAT2R-vHWBvaNJt2-bVVrquT4szP2QF_ULL6oUArAUJ66nqF_0XWyHSHOF_KUhQd52qUw1WvmNCNgYcehyphenhypheny7EI4JreJT-rmAHyRSxY/s1600/jameson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobaulx6G1-1GK7fc__P6uptDea2PdJe8k3OfK6WAT2R-vHWBvaNJt2-bVVrquT4szP2QF_ULL6oUArAUJ66nqF_0XWyHSHOF_KUhQd52qUw1WvmNCNgYcehyphenhypheny7EI4JreJT-rmAHyRSxY/s200/jameson.jpg" width="151" /></a>St. Patrick's Day was quickly approaching this year, and I wanted a a new recipe to try. I love a good Car Bomb (I mean the tasty kind that comes from a pint glass of Guinness and shot glass full of Jameson and Bailey's), so I trolled pinterest until I found something that spiked my interest-- <a href="http://www.aspicyperspective.com/2012/03/irish-car-bomb-brownies.html" target="_blank">A Spicy Perspective's</a> Brownies. I had every intention of following her recipe exactly-- take one look at her photos and you would want an exact replica as well, but my body had other plans for me.<br />
<br />
I woke up Sunday morning feeling exhausted; I had spent all day Saturday (literally 12 hours) at a lactation convention passing out samples of my <a href="http://smartlactationcookies.webs.com/" target="_blank">Smart Lactation Cookies</a> and talking about a mile a minute about my product. Overall, it was such a fantastic day and a wonderful opportunity to get my name and product "out there", but boy was I tired! After packaging up some cookies for sale and meeting a repeat customer-- YAY!!--, I headed off to my school's annual Carnival fundraiser to work the booths and socialize with the masses. About two hours after arriving I had to leave, and my husband had to tuck me into bed-- I had a fever. I stayed in bed for about 4 hours, and when I woke up and was fever free all I could think about was how I <strike>wanted to </strike>promised the guys I would make these delicious brownies.<br />
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The husband and his friends went to the grocery store to pick up my supplies, but I was not geared up for a "from scratch" dessert, so I asked for a brownie mix instead to help speed things along.<br />
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The original recipe seems AMAZING, and next year I might just give it a shot because usually I really love baking from scratch, but if you aren't a freak like me, my simplified rendition of A Spicy Perspective's decadent dessert will have your family and friends toasting their Irish Coffee and asking for more.<br />
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** I know that the name of the cake is incredibly politically incorrect, and I in NO way agree of promoting the heinous act that inspired the name, BUT I do love the mixture of Guinness, Jameson, and Baileys... so, can we think of a more appropriate name for this delicious beverage already??** <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ2xp0pxm4aQiJkh8JxXBaqYnCD0Oja_hR7PkuAzdAlodO_eXtZH94yKewYB8OqL872_A5-BHQkZAf_fOcFPP2GQuNBg9d-FsmhRwWC8jIpSO9LLE_J8mdib0UWv7H8TzYOxQCABqUKbQ/s1600/baileys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ2xp0pxm4aQiJkh8JxXBaqYnCD0Oja_hR7PkuAzdAlodO_eXtZH94yKewYB8OqL872_A5-BHQkZAf_fOcFPP2GQuNBg9d-FsmhRwWC8jIpSO9LLE_J8mdib0UWv7H8TzYOxQCABqUKbQ/s200/baileys.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<b>Ingredients for Brownies (will depend on brand purchased):</b><br />
<b>I bought Ghirardelli Double Chocolate </b><br />
<ul>
<li> 1 egg</li>
<li>1/3 cup vegetable oil</li>
<li>Recipe on box calls for 1/4 cup water, <b>but instead use 1/2 cup Guinness </b></li>
</ul>
<b>Ingredients for Cream Cheese Swirl (same from A Spicy Perspective):</b><br />
<ul>
<li>8 oz cream cheese softened</li>
<li>1/3 cup sugar</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>1/4 cup Bailey's Irish Cream </li>
</ul>
<b> Ingredients for Jameson's Ganache:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 bar of dark chocolate</li>
<li>1/2 shot of whiskey </li>
<li>1/4 cup heavy whipping cream</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-b4UDiAB1nsWAKLsgPbq53Bq4w4gMdMD1OCuB6ZbrLPM8XXBywKX4RlF_WFHucgOmgawdoqzKKChYGc22JTR9mlQe68TvEa1wYsTdBH3sTLO42qRfWDnmuwgtkoJmX42ZmY5DoEqU6E/s1600/576032_10100836428692321_1185139996_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-b4UDiAB1nsWAKLsgPbq53Bq4w4gMdMD1OCuB6ZbrLPM8XXBywKX4RlF_WFHucgOmgawdoqzKKChYGc22JTR9mlQe68TvEa1wYsTdBH3sTLO42qRfWDnmuwgtkoJmX42ZmY5DoEqU6E/s200/576032_10100836428692321_1185139996_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh from the oven</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 325 (or whatever your boxed brownie mix suggests), and butter and prepare your brownie pan</li>
<li>Stir together all the brownie mix ingredients in a medium mixing bowl and set aside. </li>
<li>In your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened cream cheese and sugar. Add the egg and Bailey's (mix until completely smooth and incorporated). </li>
<li>Pour 1/2 of brownie mix into prepared pan.</li>
<li>Drizzle cream cheese on top</li>
<li>Pour the rest of the brownie mix into the pan and use a spatula to "swirl" the ingredients (do not over mix).</li>
<li>Bake for 30 minutes or until inserted tooth pick comes out clean.</li>
<li>While brownies are baking make the ganache.</li>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzeH5E3nh8RsSknBRTy6C9xmosrsYxvyQ-M-TuPCJ7H9xq0hDaJ4N4rkVNVPKDsMquKhRGaAov4iGTqQTX9HF2tWi7BM0vOsOa0Zj0UFNTWlQK2dwvkBAZDrYz4DIwywP3Pz6kwxcF70/s1600/482355_10100836428647411_786712658_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzeH5E3nh8RsSknBRTy6C9xmosrsYxvyQ-M-TuPCJ7H9xq0hDaJ4N4rkVNVPKDsMquKhRGaAov4iGTqQTX9HF2tWi7BM0vOsOa0Zj0UFNTWlQK2dwvkBAZDrYz4DIwywP3Pz6kwxcF70/s200/482355_10100836428647411_786712658_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With ganache </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ol>
<li>In a double boiler melt together the baking bar and heavy cream, add the whiskey and stir until completely incorporated. </li>
</ol>
<li>After brownies are cooled pour on the ganache (I made them last minute because I wasn't feeling well, so I popped them into the deep freezer for about 10 minutes to allow the ganache to set before cutting the brownies). </li>
</ol>
Serve with your favorite Irish Coffee and enjoy!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQLBGbvjsCDo1FIXmJTpekUwluhI2EWmsJs8WlMnmwHLcAahzo-Spwh5A008XRYeYZlVN9pAAfQqeYs_pshHHJHGxEAGiJ1PEhkLv2Q6IN41zUF4TbP09UnSRi6U4A-Sj23RRynwmRp-A/s1600/carbomb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQLBGbvjsCDo1FIXmJTpekUwluhI2EWmsJs8WlMnmwHLcAahzo-Spwh5A008XRYeYZlVN9pAAfQqeYs_pshHHJHGxEAGiJ1PEhkLv2Q6IN41zUF4TbP09UnSRi6U4A-Sj23RRynwmRp-A/s1600/carbomb.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the tasty beverage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-43414634483766013532013-02-18T20:22:00.002-05:002013-02-18T20:23:08.220-05:00One Smart Mini CookieI am beyond excited about my newest purchase, and I had to share! A friend of mine found the most adorable graphic t-shirt at The Children's Place, and it had Doodle Bug's name ALL OVER IT! I loved this little shirt so much that I immediately purchased it in three different sizes (24 months, 2T, and 3T). If I were not such a thrifty lady I probably would have purchased it in Every Single Size they offered. Okay, enough hype...<br />
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Drum roll please............................................................................................................. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJT7rHI0jEeeUTADy9005x1YroNCvsq0g9PxTB8XasgOrPmhHWdvibQa-F42ArcRqfirvwK6msERTfodLfoIz7Tc86QXAx5Fkg8bj_skS3TED5jyOTq_qvzEz40Lo0XuVo2LzAKgEbVnI/s1600/027084_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJT7rHI0jEeeUTADy9005x1YroNCvsq0g9PxTB8XasgOrPmhHWdvibQa-F42ArcRqfirvwK6msERTfodLfoIz7Tc86QXAx5Fkg8bj_skS3TED5jyOTq_qvzEz40Lo0XuVo2LzAKgEbVnI/s200/027084_s.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I mean, come on, right?!?! How could I pass this up? I certainly hope she likes the shirt... she will definitely get her wears worth. :)<br />
<br />
So excited for it to come in the mail! Will post pictures in action when the shirts arrive! My favorite part is that there is milk on the front :) LOVE, L-O-V-E, L.O.V.E.KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-162435422001689782013-01-29T21:23:00.000-05:002013-01-29T21:23:21.143-05:00AP Our Way: Birth Bonding<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnaGkLi4jxCxCTote0vaoqESpAp8ychDQlbmzYPfDfsTqEFcZxTCOqGkuNPHfOfmRx6ZEyXXpZdm_hWuSF_Blqua4qdLCslkC721wK3OUP7q-EyuXhjmeCHo1Hnx1tRTLvvRFxHY_Zu7k/s1600/DSC00969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnaGkLi4jxCxCTote0vaoqESpAp8ychDQlbmzYPfDfsTqEFcZxTCOqGkuNPHfOfmRx6ZEyXXpZdm_hWuSF_Blqua4qdLCslkC721wK3OUP7q-EyuXhjmeCHo1Hnx1tRTLvvRFxHY_Zu7k/s200/DSC00969.JPG" width="200" /></a>This will probably be my most difficult post on AP. I was so determined to bond with Doodle Bug after birth and establish our breastfeeding relationship that I completely ignored my body and it's ability to birth a baby without modern medical intervention. In true first time mom form.... I PANICKED, and Doodle Bug was soon evicted at 39 weeks 5 days. <br />
<br />
I was told at my 36 week appointment by my OB/GYN that I had a "narrow pubic arch" and that my baby might be too big to fit through my pelvis by the time I reached full term. These words scared me... I had read the research and was concerned about failed labor resulting in a Cesarean section. I was terrified that this would happen to me. What I was most afraid of was that by attempting labor and failing, I might jeopardize a strong nursing relationship. I continued to go to my weekly appointments, and each time I was told the same thing... only now it was added that, "baby has not dropped," "your pelvis has not spread," "Your placenta is prematurely aged." I was told that I could "attempt" a vaginal delivery, but it would most likely end in failed labor and emergency c-section. I even brought my husband to the final appointment just to make sure I wasn't overreacting-- he also became nervous. We weighed the options, and quickly scheduled the c-section.<br />
<br />
We had no close friends with kids, and neither of us really knew what to expect when it came to birth. We took a birthing class at our local hospital, bought tennis balls, packed a bag, but had no real idea of what might actually happen. I used to be the "just stick that needle in my back" woman. I have suffered with chronic migraines since I was 15, so I know endurance and pain. I always thought, "why would I want to willingly put myself through that much pain when I already experience pain on a regular basis? If there is modern medicine to spare me the pain, then sign me up!" Oh how the times have changed... I WISH I had started this blog when I first became pregnant... the transformation to mom has been such a magical adventure.<br />
<br />
I posted a picture of my baby belly a few days before eviction on my FB listing the number of days I
had left... I'm not going to lie- when a few FB friends saw that I was
having a section-- they offered their advice, but I was so convinced by
my own fears that I ignored it. I honestly didn't think I was the mom that scheduled their c-section. I thought, not it's not "scheduled," but suggested by my doctor.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgxfhDRzNVyj0oA-MZHYQlYMkZ1kvnybZcis4GHcWPen0bbpGwL2QGcXG6o88UsFMyWIXMPKG0KbbpQ63XVl9G_9q7hcNezc05TMu9KmiJ4EYYSgjVSCWYrtB1c_9BzSEYdRCQr08bqQ/s1600/DSC00978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgxfhDRzNVyj0oA-MZHYQlYMkZ1kvnybZcis4GHcWPen0bbpGwL2QGcXG6o88UsFMyWIXMPKG0KbbpQ63XVl9G_9q7hcNezc05TMu9KmiJ4EYYSgjVSCWYrtB1c_9BzSEYdRCQr08bqQ/s200/DSC00978.JPG" width="200" /></a>The C-Section was scheduled for 7:30 on the morning of July 7th. We arrived at the hospital and were kindly met by the doctor. We were prepped and anxiously awaiting the birth of our little girl. 7:37 AM. She was out- 7 lbs 3 ounces (not quite the big baby that was projected). She was healthy... and the weight of the world was on my shoulders. I am a mother. I am her mother. She is my daughter. What will the rest of my life be like? Am I going to be able to take on such an enormous task of raising a loving, kind, well-adjusted, respectful, and moral daughter? They handed her to me and it was hard to support her weight. I was lying there feeling helpless-- I couldn't hold her, I couldn't snuggle. All I wanted to do was nurse her, but also get someone to take her from me because it was too hard to hold her--- the numbing sensations were creeping up my arms and making them tingle. Daddy took Doodle Bug to the nursery to get cleaned up, and my insides were put back in order and my abdomen stapled. If you look at the pictures I look more bonded with her while she is still in me than I do after the c-section. It happened so fast my mind didn't have time to adjust to my new role as mother!<br />
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I was wheeled into recovery and Daddy and Doodle quickly returned. The recovery nurses were amazing-- they gave me tips for nursing, helped me do skin to skin, told me "just push through these first two weeks and I promise all will be fine." I used that mantra to keep my spirits up and force myself to get out of bed, walk around the hospital, take a shower, etc.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3kWpWlw9g1w8Mw9ko0xGSEqWCYqa5NJhtTacDljkTiSSfhNC2cO8Qj8Yl0KadbiWdC7-Y1N9ylCgqPNrJcJxAud5bY6MV1p9If-8REFDJqQDwx6ABTMCnCnRAKE_jG9Fi2Mh3xxgKso/s1600/eve1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3kWpWlw9g1w8Mw9ko0xGSEqWCYqa5NJhtTacDljkTiSSfhNC2cO8Qj8Yl0KadbiWdC7-Y1N9ylCgqPNrJcJxAud5bY6MV1p9If-8REFDJqQDwx6ABTMCnCnRAKE_jG9Fi2Mh3xxgKso/s320/eve1.jpg" width="320" /></a>The Lactation Consultants were fantastic as well, and I was able to have bonding time with my little girl. One woman joked that I needed to give my daughter a pacifier, because every time she came to check on us she was nursing. I just smiled and kept right on nursing. She wanted to be next to me... and I was eager and willing to oblige. We were able to establish a strong nursing relationship-- one that is still going strong 18 months later. But, I felt like something was missing... I was anxious and out of sorts due to all the medication I had to take. The anxiety was crippling, and it was so out of character for me that I didn't know how to respond. I thought I was failing as a mother, and as if having a newborn isn't hard enough... I was recovering from major abdominal surgery! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZkqXn1P9BUNoYUK6XuPXSTP2v4FYm8jJxQz4LnVmWg2Wpij9Y6i7rcIFUrVWRUwMU3z6bg-s5BPSfZC93IYgRVezA-ObPkcoabFUIV-3qEhanLMe3V5bBd2kU3uCtEkAsL7yZmeGGUo/s1600/eve6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZkqXn1P9BUNoYUK6XuPXSTP2v4FYm8jJxQz4LnVmWg2Wpij9Y6i7rcIFUrVWRUwMU3z6bg-s5BPSfZC93IYgRVezA-ObPkcoabFUIV-3qEhanLMe3V5bBd2kU3uCtEkAsL7yZmeGGUo/s320/eve6.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Now, reflecting on my experiences, I am at peace with my decision to schedule my c-section. I wasn't at peace with this for quite a few months after my daughter was born (which resulted in a nasty case of PPA & PPD), but now that I see that she is truly healthy and happy I have no regrets. I have learned from my uneducated "mistakes", and my knowledge of birth and birth options has vastly expanded. <br />
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Hopefully one day (in a few years God-willing) with #2 I can post an entirely different blog about birth bonding. One where baby is born peacefully in an environment surrounded by love and serenity... not blue curtains and scalpels. I am excited by the possibility of having a VBAC one day... if that day comes I will share my experience, and I'm hoping I can put my new birth education to work. Hypnobabies, water birth, placenta encapsulation, delayed cord clamping... the whole works. Yes, you read that correctly <a href="http://placentabenefits.info/" target="_blank">Placenta Encapsulation</a>... we are mammals after all. ;)KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-29188461253515983392013-01-27T19:21:00.000-05:002013-01-27T19:28:18.803-05:00Attachment Parenting: Our WayAwhile back I wrote a blog post about preparing for baby while not <a href="http://www.onesmartcook.blogspot.com/2012/10/baby-on-budget.html" target="_blank">breaking the bank</a> where mentioned that we follow many of the principles of Attachment Parenting that are outlined by <a href="http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/attachment-parenting/what-ap-7-baby-bs" target="_blank">Dr. Sears</a>. We pick and choose what works for us and our family and just roll with it. Due to our beliefs we often get slack from some of our friends and family members. People are under the common misconception that AP is some <i><b><span style="font-size: large;">new-age-hippie-cultish phenomenon</span></b></i> that strong arms women into attending to their child's every need. In fact, it is quite the opposite- women are encouraged to listen to their bodies and the bodies of their children, and by listening and being responsive, a child's basic needs can be quickly and lovingly met.<span style="color: purple;"> <span style="background-color: #f4cccc;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>AP is natural</b></span></span></span>; it's as old as time, and it is not interpreted the same way for every family, or even every child. AP means you are lovingly attentive and responsive. It does NOT mean you spoil your child. It does NOT mean you hinder your child's independence. AP encourages you to embrace your infants dependence, and nurture your toddler to promote a strong sense of independence. <br />
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As AP style parents we take each day as it comes, and embrace each opportunity to grow into a loving and supportive little family. We learn from our daughter, and as time passes we continue to follow her cues. We don't have the "secret" to successful parenting. We aren't perfect. We just do what we feel comes naturally to us and just go with the flow...<br />
<br />
I've decided that I will do a post on each of these <b>"tools" </b>and
highlight how we've made them work for our family. Overall, the beauty
of parenting is that it is personal to you and your family unit. You get
to pick and choose what works best in your home. Many people give
unsolicited parenting advice; Please do not misconstrue my posts for
"advice"... I am merely describing what has worked for us so far. :)<br />
<br />
I will post in the order outlined by Dr. Sears, but tried and tested by millions of women since the dawn of time... You know Eve nursed those babies and wrapped them on her back. <br />
<br />
<b>The 7 B's of AP, what Sears refers to as "Attachment Tools" are:</b><br />
<ol>
<li>Birth Bonding</li>
<li>Breastfeeding</li>
<li>Babywearing</li>
<li>Bedding close to baby</li>
<li>Belief in the language of your baby's cry</li>
<li>Beware the baby trainers</li>
<li>Balance in your family</li>
</ol>
<span style="background-color: #f4cccc;"><span style="font-size: small;">**DISCLAIMER: After publishing this blog post, One Smart Cookie summoned mother earth by calling on the spirits of the four winds while chanting around a fire and nursing her toddler in a woven wrap**</span></span> <br />
<br />KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-19979004723909010332013-01-23T21:07:00.001-05:002013-01-23T21:07:33.473-05:00Baking up a Storm<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjgOOYOd6-KBcP79XOhDHY93uZvs9Jfep2_lMMfT-6v4k9VMu5a_YAjHk1XtG9G_BEjppZNfWFV_AIQdxJOmHI-RY3iXuACMa_5GwogETujTatatjWRZQQg2YAikA8qZHirTOGLwbcivg/s1600/IMG_0295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjgOOYOd6-KBcP79XOhDHY93uZvs9Jfep2_lMMfT-6v4k9VMu5a_YAjHk1XtG9G_BEjppZNfWFV_AIQdxJOmHI-RY3iXuACMa_5GwogETujTatatjWRZQQg2YAikA8qZHirTOGLwbcivg/s320/IMG_0295.JPG" width="320" /></a> January has been a whirlwind to say the least. I came up with a bight idea over Christmas break (probably because I had the down time to think and process my ideas without also having to simultaneously instill an education in 100 middle schoolers) that I should start selling my lactation cookies. I have made numerous dozens of cookies over the past year and 1/2 for myself and others, and decided that it would be win-win to make a little extra money doing something I love (baking) while also promoting a cause I am passionate about (breastfeeding)!<br />
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I spent the last few days of Christmas break formatting and designing my <a href="http://smartlactationcookies.webs.com/" target="_blank">business website</a>, perfecting some of my recipes, and ordering pastry boxes and labels. I launched the Smart Cookies site and only a few days later I had my very first customer. I was proud of myself for making this dream of owning my personal "bakery" business a reality, but I was also anxious. Would she like the cookies? Would they help her to increase supply? Would she think I was a charlatan? I knew the cookies had given <b>me</b> the boost I needed when I returned to work and suffered with low supply. I knew they had helped countless friends establish adequate supply post birth. I knew they were yummy. I had just never <b>SOLD</b> any cookies before. I waited a day or two and was slightly discouraged because I was afraid the cookies had not worked for her. I went to school on a Friday and had a tough day with apathetic students unwilling to put the effort into achieving their own personal success and came home feeling defeated. I logged onto my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/katie.obrien.31" target="_blank">facebook</a> and was bombarded with messages and notifications. <span style="font-size: large;"><b>THE COOKIES WORKED</b></span>.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV03aKWfVnt-6XQTgExYBm-yizNWgG2DxO-zFbTScjF7paeOoDK0LeXMIdexKskmNTDao-AdoMdie0Mb6t-zWudWiFKiTYbCJd09dNAL5fA-5WONbAk_8wCiHVp5mgg4inC2jvaAJCs3w/s1600/IMG_0290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV03aKWfVnt-6XQTgExYBm-yizNWgG2DxO-zFbTScjF7paeOoDK0LeXMIdexKskmNTDao-AdoMdie0Mb6t-zWudWiFKiTYbCJd09dNAL5fA-5WONbAk_8wCiHVp5mgg4inC2jvaAJCs3w/s200/IMG_0290.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GF & DF Smart Cookies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The woman who ordered my very first official Smart Cookies batch had success. She posted about my cookies in many different support groups and moms circles. It made my heart happy to hear that I was able to help her. I found a renewed confidence in myself, and I was ready to hit the kitchen hard in order to bring this success to other local moms.<br />
<br />
Business is booming- in ways I never expected. People that I have helped by making cookies for in the past have started creeping out from the woodwork and promoting my business. I never expected this much support, and I feel blessed to be able to share my knowledge and product with other women.So far I have sold enough cookies to cover the cost of all my ingredients, packaging materials, and business cards with plenty to spare! I have made vegan cookies (a first for me) as well as dairy free-gluten free cookies (also a first). <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1UbKEUvV7ysRPCkZMrDENyLXaxZ8z6qUESQ8wM72c_b4sudcDhmx_SKiQ_3IA3CR4ANqGtRVVipr3wIlfR4k17VgOUiKaX4vqb03yLIR4NTG23AqYdAhyFqTsM77Hf7hOkByPBM3lKZ4/s1600/IMG_0285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1UbKEUvV7ysRPCkZMrDENyLXaxZ8z6qUESQ8wM72c_b4sudcDhmx_SKiQ_3IA3CR4ANqGtRVVipr3wIlfR4k17VgOUiKaX4vqb03yLIR4NTG23AqYdAhyFqTsM77Hf7hOkByPBM3lKZ4/s200/IMG_0285.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fan Fav: Letdown Madness</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So, my blog does not have very many updates for January 2013, but my Kitchen Aid stand mixer has seen her fair share of baking in the past few months. Proficiency, I have found, is key. Next weekend I will have a baker's organizational day where I will measure out all my dry ingredients and bag them up by the dozen so I can quickly whip up a batch when one is ordered. <br />
<br />
I love the feeling of personal success I have found in baking. It brings joy to my life- that is multiplied with each new batch of cookies fresh from the oven.KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-67088701078283991062013-01-01T21:41:00.001-05:002013-01-01T21:41:48.733-05:00Vita-Mixin' it up<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmDSqRCYUHIx0X6rGSpA6ugvk2gCtIXWU1C0IZf-0MX5IQ4M91ySmAVhts5oywMlr-z7GOIrWguHJ41Aq1nsJg-R-pcjdwknUOVHYazkGHhJ4jA2SA1UFrVxrFL5x_LnkEjP5HgpTHzI/s1600/5200-standard-modular-package.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmDSqRCYUHIx0X6rGSpA6ugvk2gCtIXWU1C0IZf-0MX5IQ4M91ySmAVhts5oywMlr-z7GOIrWguHJ41Aq1nsJg-R-pcjdwknUOVHYazkGHhJ4jA2SA1UFrVxrFL5x_LnkEjP5HgpTHzI/s320/5200-standard-modular-package.jpg" width="320" /></a>The husband and I decided to <b>gift</b> ourselves a bit early this year when Amazon had an unbelievable, jaw-dropping, nonnegotiable, kick-ass deal on the <a href="https://secure.vitamix.com/default.aspx?COUPON=07-0063&gclid=CMz0i4jNyLQCFQf0nAodDDkA8w" target="_blank">VITAMIX</a>. We have been lusting after one of these for <strike>awhile</strike>, let's be honest-- YEARS! We are both teachers and have a child, so we always thought there was no possible way we could ever justify sending a small fortune ($600) on a blender. But, it is so much <b>more </b>than a blender... you can make just about <a href="https://www.vitamix.com/Find-Recipes" target="_blank">anything</a> in the Vitamix-- <a href="https://www.vitamix.com/Find-Recipes/Search?sort=NAME&cat=Soups" target="_blank">soups</a>, <a href="https://www.vitamix.com/Find-Recipes/Search?sort=NAME&cat=Green+Smoothies" target="_blank">healthy smoothies</a>, <a href="https://www.vitamix.com/Find-Recipes/W/H/Whole-Fruit-Margarita" target="_blank">MARGARITAS</a> (can I get a "Yes, please!"?), <a href="https://www.vitamix.com/Find-Recipes/P/E/Peanut-Butter" target="_blank">nut butters</a>, ice cream, dips, flour... the possibilities are endless. So, when I saw that the blender of our dreams was on sale for 40% off... I just <b>HAD</b> to buy it, and boy are we glad I did!<br />
<br />
So, why haven't I been blogging over my Christmas break? Because we have been too busy cranking out food using our fun new toy and traveling to visit family! <br />
<br />
We received our beautiful package in the mail on Christmas Eve, and left
town to visit family on the 26th. We returned from NC on the 30th...
and yet we still managed to create all this yumminess:<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMeo8rTFfOHxcsfNwss0ZMXbXmWB9EIC0sDIAeoCxJazyFXm6zOnmtSGn9Ex-B7kRf_hCXlwHS-L1B6MJVIkLVk51WVf6vBMuk0mJ6BIfn6o_BcX-dkf8ApaILp8Cly8VZYh24R5gclFs/s1600/wholefruitmargaritamainjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMeo8rTFfOHxcsfNwss0ZMXbXmWB9EIC0sDIAeoCxJazyFXm6zOnmtSGn9Ex-B7kRf_hCXlwHS-L1B6MJVIkLVk51WVf6vBMuk0mJ6BIfn6o_BcX-dkf8ApaILp8Cly8VZYh24R5gclFs/s320/wholefruitmargaritamainjpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">images from Vitamix.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>What we have made using recipes from Vitamix:</b><br />
Thai Pumpkin Soup<br />
Spinach Artichoke Dip (2x because it was so darn good the first time!)<br />
Whole Fruit Margaritas-- absolutely <i><b>delicious</b></i><br />
Peanut Butter<br />
assorted fruit smoothies<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-27660383260540781492012-12-23T21:34:00.001-05:002012-12-23T21:34:26.212-05:00Vodka Infusion... take two<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCD_S2VUG2qhfXhnW7iPmPRLh34yhjf9dYl2amZMjEFSRpoJjol5mE5-ERaZKTA4d3c1kS25wTzXwlsxeINf8inBSvgV9zp0gW56LawOcr0TtP5k4PrKILnQH0_LE84Nm5LiO08St7V0/s1600/IMG_0082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCD_S2VUG2qhfXhnW7iPmPRLh34yhjf9dYl2amZMjEFSRpoJjol5mE5-ERaZKTA4d3c1kS25wTzXwlsxeINf8inBSvgV9zp0gW56LawOcr0TtP5k4PrKILnQH0_LE84Nm5LiO08St7V0/s320/IMG_0082.JPG" width="240" /></a>What to get guy friends for Christmas other than booze? I mean really?? I can't just gift a bottle of liquor... The crafty side of me just cringes at the thought of that. So... the husband and I decided to give it a kick. We read that infused vodkas are really easy to make... so a few months back we gave it a shot. We both like sweet and spicy (which is why we love Thai food), so we decided to make a crushed red pepper flake and blackberry infused vodka. Sounds great, right? Well, the math teacher of the pair (not to name names or anything) thought the directions said to allow the flavors to absorb for 2 weeks... um, no, they were only supposed to infuse for 2 DAYS! The infused vodka is still in our freezer... and we only bust it out for the rare occasion of a bloody mary. Some days we volunteer ourselves for immediate infliction of pain by just curiously allowing the liquid to hit our lips once again (it MUST NOT be as spicy as I remember...) It always is.<br />
<br />
Our vodka fail was a joke among our friends, so we thought we would redeem ourselves with a little Christmas inspired infusion.<br />
<br />
<b>Vodka infusion Take Two...</b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Candy Cane Vodka </span></b></div>
<br />
We bought a one liter bottle of Smirnoff (you don't want to go too cheap because the burn of the vodka will mask the flavor that you are trying to infuse). Next time... because this one WAS successful (wahoo), we will spring for an even pricier bottle. We have class (most of time... we do live on the Westside afterall).<br />
<br />
One bottle was enough vodka to fill two pint size mason jars.<br />
<br />
We bought <b>one box</b> of peppermint candy canes and used all but two in the infusion (<b>saved two</b> for packaging-- this wasn't even my idea... I think my craftiness is starting to rub off).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhbmuSHGm5UJWLe66rucZ3e9CUykWpV2LOkb4tEisrfJjXfIQZ2Hf0WYT1i3Su4R-1tyA-HjnBTLWlHtB0UaNvyvg5gRchN7n4-EQZpZqTZxc_0Nej-5VSwE1BgdBatscCYeOZoctxB4/s1600/IMG_0080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhbmuSHGm5UJWLe66rucZ3e9CUykWpV2LOkb4tEisrfJjXfIQZ2Hf0WYT1i3Su4R-1tyA-HjnBTLWlHtB0UaNvyvg5gRchN7n4-EQZpZqTZxc_0Nej-5VSwE1BgdBatscCYeOZoctxB4/s320/IMG_0080.JPG" width="240" /></a>We took about <b>two</b> or so shots out of the bottle so that we would have enough room to add the candy canes. Just enough to make a stiff screw driver for the mixologists. We added the candy canes and put the bottle in the refrigerator for <b>two days</b>. Every time we opened the refrigerator to get something we would give the bottle a little shake. The candy canes dissolved after about a day, so we knew it was ready to be packaged.<br />
<br />
I had some craft paper left over from when I packaged the <a href="http://onesmartcook.blogspot.com/p/purchasing-lactation-goodies-from-osc.html" target="_blank">Homemade Hot Cocoa</a>, so I busted out the Cuttlebug machine and used the largest circle die to make the labels for the lids. I used mod podge to adhere, hemp to adorn decorative candy cane and gift tag, and <i>voilĂ ... </i>a booze gift that One Smart Cookie is proud to give.<br />
<br />
The boys that were on the receiving end of this vodka infusion were also my taste testers for the Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix. My husband and I had about 1 shot of candy cane vodka left over, so he made a Hot Cocoa with Candy Cane Vodka... let's just say he finished the cup in about two minutes flat. <br />
<br />
Score two for the O'Briens... DIY Christmas success! KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-86148573379673954022012-12-18T22:34:00.000-05:002012-12-21T16:43:33.250-05:00It's a DIY Christmas <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuP_5jYIkdkwsdn3M28SdditzPrbE9SpaI0_T45Md57vZTYOKC6scK4xWyyqT5c4ZIwUiAcpSZdb4IENZoEMnxEHNyxj5BsZyMKYxJc7rnVnWjufx0O2fVdnTyYk1SoXnrr1vm1GosOKM/s1600/IMG_0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuP_5jYIkdkwsdn3M28SdditzPrbE9SpaI0_T45Md57vZTYOKC6scK4xWyyqT5c4ZIwUiAcpSZdb4IENZoEMnxEHNyxj5BsZyMKYxJc7rnVnWjufx0O2fVdnTyYk1SoXnrr1vm1GosOKM/s320/IMG_0014.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
It's something about the season of Christmas, and the thick cloud of holiday cheer, that beckons my crafty and creative alter-ego to surface and shine for the month of December. Many nights (like tonight) I end up staying up late to organize and devise plans for my Christmas DIY gifts. I walk through the crafting stores consumed by my eagerness to get to work, and overwhelmed by endless possibilities that await on each aisle. I am indecisive enough as it is... give me 500 different colors and patterns of craft paper to choose from and I'm done for!<br />
<br />
I love to create, and I love to gift my creations. I have always preferred to give and receive thoughtful homemade items... and I can remember being enveloped by this urge as a child as well. I love the consideration and time that goes into the art of the home good... thinking about how and what to make is the most fun.<br />
<br />
Last year because money was a little tight I decided to make all the women in our family and my 6th grade room moms scented sugar scrubs. This year it's Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix!<br />
<br />
I took the idea from <a href="http://penniesonaplatter.com/2012/02/10/homemade-hot-cocoa-mix/" target="_blank">Pennies on a Platter's</a> Hot Cocoa mix (originally <a href="http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2010/12/09/homemade-hot-cocoa-mix/" target="_blank">The Brown Eyed Baker</a>'s Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix), and then I just revised it based on what I had available in my pantry. <br />
<br />
This recipe is SUPER easy to make-- all you need is a <span style="font-size: large;">powerful </span>food processor or blender and some canning jars for your finished product.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyoqn48LU6O16Gt3jBeWyEgZqFhjXqO7MdqwkQsWsmW5ZX8ZRsDDg2loyls-7BdwI1OGEAgC7bBOfVx388hq3hWJg8kkKnHRglb55NQcrOAvzKB2DVKxZhJH-E9GvofImaeaC6HzskB4c/s1600/IMG_0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyoqn48LU6O16Gt3jBeWyEgZqFhjXqO7MdqwkQsWsmW5ZX8ZRsDDg2loyls-7BdwI1OGEAgC7bBOfVx388hq3hWJg8kkKnHRglb55NQcrOAvzKB2DVKxZhJH-E9GvofImaeaC6HzskB4c/s320/IMG_0019.JPG" width="240" /></a>Ingredients:<br />
<ul>
<li>3 cups dry milk powder</li>
<li>2 cups powdered sugar</li>
<li>1 cup unsweetened dark chocolate cocoa powder</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips</li>
<li>1/2 cup chocolate chips</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
</ul>
Directions:<br />
<ol>
<li>Stir all ingredients together in a large mixing bowl</li>
<li>Blend in a food processor in small batches until all is combined and chocolate is finely ground.</li>
<li>Transfer into small air tight canning jars </li>
<ol>
<li> I decorated my canning jars with Christmas craft paper and mod podge (gotta love the mod podge!), instructions, and a ribbon with gift tag</li>
</ol>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Yield:</b> about <b>20 servings</b> </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsgS_xBHY-TN6WyexDrk3MHTKYqXqV-AFkEnheIvltWS6bN4vv-WeMnp10p8e6iy7gZ-5_oeKNW6RYfQrOYuLgD2dbLcBtOi-KnwcnWCXhALjqH4Gh5shXU4f-Nv2gTg6Em_fmjSRqEyw/s1600/IMG_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsgS_xBHY-TN6WyexDrk3MHTKYqXqV-AFkEnheIvltWS6bN4vv-WeMnp10p8e6iy7gZ-5_oeKNW6RYfQrOYuLgD2dbLcBtOi-KnwcnWCXhALjqH4Gh5shXU4f-Nv2gTg6Em_fmjSRqEyw/s200/IMG_0017.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot Cocoa, Anyone?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Good for up to <b>three</b> months.<br />
<br />
<b>To make:</b> Mix 1/3 cup of cocoa mix with 1 cup warm milk. Enjoy :) KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-30806889813217380772012-12-17T16:42:00.003-05:002012-12-17T16:45:44.759-05:00It's the most wonderful time of the year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9kg9g5LXHV1Dtizv88Sb6LVC1nT2UcBXztR6__PojSmfdlxQ9crt-HlddO_EPVzhb-MdJaDKtIPAa8VMiD0wZDswMmdVeVNtiQzv-olEts8gykzSphrGnLSz0zIPD2ttFq6jUyeZEw8/s1600/IMG_9969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9kg9g5LXHV1Dtizv88Sb6LVC1nT2UcBXztR6__PojSmfdlxQ9crt-HlddO_EPVzhb-MdJaDKtIPAa8VMiD0wZDswMmdVeVNtiQzv-olEts8gykzSphrGnLSz0zIPD2ttFq6jUyeZEw8/s640/IMG_9969.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #93c47d;"><span style="color: #660000;"><br /><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BvMgR89cq4ix0oHgw-KQ3jxvOmvucNpZ5jcGDCF0fB2DuJ2nYnwxIJgS8jfgBeplZ7o87ltVSdA7FZkv-_0K5HcyI9hGQNKg1E81CsM_SnVRF8D1qMha13v22lLzHvlgEoF0H0MYgng/s1600/IMG_0031(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BvMgR89cq4ix0oHgw-KQ3jxvOmvucNpZ5jcGDCF0fB2DuJ2nYnwxIJgS8jfgBeplZ7o87ltVSdA7FZkv-_0K5HcyI9hGQNKg1E81CsM_SnVRF8D1qMha13v22lLzHvlgEoF0H0MYgng/s200/IMG_0031(1).JPG" width="133" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJt-XHDh8Av2tsjtDXOmFk3ZsXeWAG93g5iIwck38iz_-n6jNjrStYz8iXhyphenhyphenJwgwWtYvWbznh2bN3SvV3inNjxn_afeonZpWT8ygfEbghmsb694lieOqUASBZMbKMikZAh_w-Wz-RRog/s1600/IMG_9991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJt-XHDh8Av2tsjtDXOmFk3ZsXeWAG93g5iIwck38iz_-n6jNjrStYz8iXhyphenhyphenJwgwWtYvWbznh2bN3SvV3inNjxn_afeonZpWT8ygfEbghmsb694lieOqUASBZMbKMikZAh_w-Wz-RRog/s200/IMG_9991.JPG" width="133" /></a>The Christmas tree is decorated, the stockings are hung, the house smells of ginger and cinnamon, the ceramic light tree glows softly in the background, the dog scratches at the back door because it is too cold for a Whippet to stay outside, Doodle Bug, mom, and dad cuddle close to keep warm and sneak extra snuggles, checking the mail becomes the daily excitement... it is Christmas... and we are so blessed to have what we have, and possess no want for anything more.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #93c47d;"><span style="color: #660000;">Merry Christmas from our family to yours!</span></span></span></div>
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KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-78766443295381030712012-11-24T08:22:00.001-05:002012-11-24T08:22:34.796-05:00Cabernet Cranberry SauceBlasphemy: I do not like Thanksgiving turkey- at all. I am a ham and sides gal... have been my whole life, and cranberry sauce from a can?? That does NOTHING to improve my odds of enjoying a piece of lovingly roasted and hand carved turkey. I do not relish in the prospects of next day leftover turkey sandwiches either-- I know I am a freak! All of that changed this year... and we can give all credit to- the. best. cranberry. sauce. ever. I didn't even think I <strike>liked</strike> loved cranberry sauce, but I do! This recipe makes a TON, but can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two months. We were going to THREE Thanksgivings, so we made this larger batch... you could easily half or quarter the recipe to fit your own needs. <br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 1/4 cup granulated sugar</li>
<li>1 cup Cabernet </li>
<li>zest of one tangerine</li>
<li>juice of one tangering</li>
<li>12 ounce package of cranberries </li>
<li>1 cinnamon stick</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger root (or more-- add based on your own taste)</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<ol>
<li>In a medium sauce pan on medium low heat, bring sugar and cabernet to a boil (stir constantly).</li>
<li>Once the sugar mixture has come to a boil, add cranberries, cinnamon stick, tangerine zest, tangerine juice, and grated ginger. </li>
<li>Partially cover and allow to reduce for 10 minutes or so. Skins of cranberries will burst when they are done.</li>
</ol>
Serve warm or cold! I have eaten it three times in the past two days-- with TURKEY! Yum :) KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-35439506339157475832012-11-22T11:48:00.001-05:002012-11-24T08:22:46.851-05:00Cranberry White Chocolate Bread Pudding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3C212MSYKJKw3DigQpJM-z8ClIDHW969LMDKWIkxBFyMzZLxpQ9CreWEDfCNUnf74IXKgiUMwPOeh1ZuZDJkHCJ8BERaQZ0I5VE0W4briWoAMtnqtETttXzYfeECj6ena959x7ek_0k/s1600/cranberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3C212MSYKJKw3DigQpJM-z8ClIDHW969LMDKWIkxBFyMzZLxpQ9CreWEDfCNUnf74IXKgiUMwPOeh1ZuZDJkHCJ8BERaQZ0I5VE0W4briWoAMtnqtETttXzYfeECj6ena959x7ek_0k/s320/cranberry.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
While I am waiting for noon to come around so we can head across the street to my MIL's house for Thanksgiving #1, I thought I would share a recipe for a tasty little treat my husband and I whipped up this morning. My husband LOVES bread pudding, but I was not a fan until last year when he made <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/the-best-bread-pudding-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">Paula Deen's "The Best Bread Pudding"</a>. As you can imagine, since it is a Paula Deen recipe, the amount of butter in this recipe will make your arteries tremble in fear. This year we decided to give her recipe a Thanksgiving themed <strike>improvement</strike> makeover.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="background-color: #f4cccc;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cranberry White Chocolate Bread Pudding with a Cranberry Brandy <span style="font-size: large;">Driz</span>zle</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>2 cups granulated sugar</li>
<li>5 beaten large eggs</li>
<li>2 cups milk</li>
<li>2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract</li>
<li>3 cups cubed Italian bread (cube the night before and allow to stale overnight)</li>
<li>1/2 cup packed light brown sugar</li>
<li>1/4 cup (1/2 stick) softened butter</li>
<li>1 cup chopped walnuts</li>
<li>3/4 12 ounce bag of fresh cranberries</li>
<li>6 ounces white chocolate chips</li>
</ul>
<b>Ingredients for the drizzle:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 cup granulated sugar</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>1 stick butter</li>
<li>2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract</li>
<li>1/4 cup brandy</li>
<li>leftover 1/4 bag of cranberries </li>
</ul>
<b>Directions:</b><br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 350, and grease and flour pan(s). We used two square pans (8x8 and 6x6) because we are taking them to two separate dinners. </li>
<li>Mix together granulated sugar, milk, and eggs in a large bowl. Add vanilla. </li>
<li>Pour egg mixture over cubed bread; add cranberries and white chocolate and let sit for 10 minutes. </li>
<li>In a small bowl crumble together softened butter, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts.</li>
<li>Pour bread mixture into prepared pan(s).</li>
<li>Sprinkle brown sugar crumble over the top, and bake for 35-45 minutes. </li>
</ol>
<b>Directions for Drizzle:</b><br />
<ol>
<li> Whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla. </li>
<li>Heat mixture in a sauce pan (stirring constantly) over medium heat until sugar is melted. </li>
<li>Add cranberries and brandy and cook until the skins of the cranberries pop.</li>
<li>Transfer mixture into a blender, and pulse until all ingredients are incorporated. </li>
<li>Drizzle over top of bread pudding for decoration. We also put the remainder in a squeeze bottle to allow each person to add the amount of drizzle they desire. </li>
</ol>
Serve warm or cold! KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-72012370778655182802012-11-21T14:33:00.001-05:002012-11-24T08:23:01.813-05:00It's beginning to smell a lot like ThanksgivingThe Thanksgiving baking commences... This year we will be celebrating two Thanksgivings on Thanksgiving day... let's just say that even if our pants don't agree, we have a great deal to be thankful for this year. My husband and I are both incredibly lucky to have our parents and many family members living in town, and this year we are extra blessed because my sisters are going to be in town as well. My MIL is usually very kind and invites my small family to join hers, but this year there will be too many Lynskeys to fit in the O'Brien home! So... two Thanksgivings it will have to be!<br />
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Our mothers are in charge of the majority of the cooking, but I have volunteered to bring the dessert. One dessert I will bring is a <span style="background-color: #ffe599;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Gingerbread Trifle</span></span></span>. Here is how I made it-- very simple and semi-homemade.<br />
<br />
Bake two boxes of gingerbread and set aside to cool. Once cool, break the gingerbread into crumbles.<br />
<br />
Prepare one large box of vanilla instant pudding (takes 3 cups of milk) and let sit in the refrigerator to firm up. Once pudding is set, mix in one 29 ounce can of pumpkin puree. Add 3 teaspoons cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon all spice and stir together. Refrigerate mixture until ready to assemble trifle.<br />
<br />
Evenly layer half of the gingerbread, then 1/2 of the pudding, and then 1/2 of the cool whip (repeat). Garnished with chopped pecans and a heart made of cranberries. KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-30585758821419970392012-11-06T17:46:00.001-05:002012-11-24T08:23:11.162-05:00Thanksgiving Desserts, oh the choices!Okay, so I MAY be on a personal sabbatical from the kitchen and my trusty stand mixer, but that doesn't keep me off Pinterest, or stop me from gathering ideas for Thanksgiving desserts. My MIL will be cooking the dinner at her house, and then everyone will walk across the street to our home for dessert. I think it's safe to say that though I can bake, I am NO cook.<br />
<br />
My husband loves to cook, and that man can cook circles around me! This is the same man that ate pizza every night for dinner during his first few years of teaching and bachelor living. He ate off paper plates and drank from solo cups because he didn't want to break out the dishes and turn on the sink. How did he transform into a kitchen mastermind? Well all I can say is that one wonderful aspect of Doodle Bug's constant fussiness during the hours of 5-9 PM each night was that the husband had to learn how to prepare the meals. I was stuck on the couch with a nursling that would only calm down when I fed her. He began with making curries (a staple in our home), and slowly started to branch out to pastas with homemade sauces, stuffed squash, roasted garlic asparagus, etc. I have become one lucky lady... and 16 months later I still love to sit back and watch him create new dishes. <br />
<br />
So, today my mission was securing Thanksgiving desserts to please each palate. My husband, SIL, and MIL LOVE dark chocolate, my FIL and myself prefer white chocolate, and of course... PUMPKIN needs to make an appearance!<br />
<br />
Narrowed down choices include:<br />
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="background-color: #f9cb9c;">Pumpkin Gingerbread Trifle</span> </span>(Gingerbread cake, pumpkin butterscotch pudding, toffee, whipped cream<span style="background-color: white;">)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: white;"><span style="background-color: #990000;">Cranberry White Chocolate Bread Pudding</span></span> (WOW!)</li>
<li><span style="color: #fff2cc;"><span style="background-color: #b45f06;"> Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Pumpkin Pie Frosting </span></span></li>
</ol>
I may not want to bake just yet, but MAN-- these sound delicious! KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-45155389955429198272012-11-05T17:44:00.002-05:002012-11-05T17:49:21.316-05:00Post Bake Sale Baking HaitusLast week I spent 6 days in Virginia visiting my family. My Grandmother passed away on Thursday the 25th, and I flew out with Doodle Bug and my dad on Friday the 26th to celebrate her life with my mom's family. While I was in Courtland (a tiny town with the population of about 2,000 at most) I was able to flip through some of my Grandmother's cookbooks. I came home with many different southern recipes and my Great-Grandmother's recipe for caramel icing (I can't wait to try). My Grandfather gave me a rolling pin and one of my Grandmother's 8x8 baking dishes as well. I know that every time I roll out my cookies she will be smiling down at me.<br />
<br />
When I returned to work on November 1st, I knew I had my work cut out for me. I had grading, recording, and organizing of papers that would take days to complete. I was overwhelmed before the first bell even rang. All of my anxiety quickly melted away as my 6th graders began to enter the classroom. They smiled, ran over, and hugged me (the real genuine kind). I felt so blessed to have such a wonderful class to come "home" to. They made me card,s and throughout the day different students would randomly place them on my desk. I think they must have known that I needed their love and encouragement to get through my first day back in one piece. This is the kind of class that career teachers will teach for 20 years just waiting for. It's the kind of class that one dreams of having... and I am beyond appreciative of them.<br />
<br />
After returning to school on Thursday, I had to rush home and start up a baking storm. I signed up in September to be the co-chair of our MOMS (Ministry of Mothers Sharing) Group Bake Sale. We needed to raise close to $1,000 in one weekend in order to obtain our goal of buying Christmas gifts for multiple children from two local charities. I offered to bake for many different people and was planning to bake all the items over the course of a week. Considering I had spent my baking week in Virginia, I knew I had to kick in full gear in order to complete the task at hand. I stayed up until midnight on Thursday night baking <a href="http://www.onesmartcook.blogspot.com/2012/10/lovin-from-ovens-smores-cookie-bars.html" target="_blank">S'mores Bars</a>, Cinnamon Walnut Oat Bars, Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies, <a href="http://www.onesmartcook.blogspot.com/2012/09/chewy-brownie-cookies.html" target="_blank">Brownie Cookies</a>, <a href="http://www.onesmartcook.blogspot.com/2012/09/not-your-normal-sugar-cookie.html" target="_blank">Lemon Sugar Cookies</a>, and Cinnamon Walnut Cookies.<br />
<br />
On Friday after school I had to rush home to bake it up a little more. I made White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies, and then went to my friend's home (who has the most AMAZING DOUBLE OVEN) to work with other MOMS friends to finish our baking. We made bread, muffins, pies, cookies, mini pies, etc. She also had these little nifty contraptions that made mini pies, cake pops, and muffins!<br />
<br />
Over the course of the weekend Masses at church we were able to sell about $800 with of baked goods. We were happy to come so close to our goal and were very impressed with the generosity of our fellow parishioners. We know now that next time we need to bake more pies, bread, and larger cakes-- we were blown away by how many requests there were for these items.<br />
<br />
Okay, so enough rambling... here's a recipe that I tried for the first time during my baking frenzy. After this past weekend the whisk, stand mixer, my recipe books are locked in the pantry for at least a week... I need to regain a little sanity and stop the dreams of cupcakes that overflow their wrappers... Darn muffin tops-- We women and bakers hate them for SO many reasons.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Cinnamon Walnut Oat Bars</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>I got the base of the recipe off the back of the bag of cinnamon chips with a little One Smart Cookie rendition </b></div>
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 cup butter softened </li>
<li>1 cup packed light brown sugar</li>
<li>1/3 cup granulated sugar</li>
<li>2 large eggs</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups all purpose flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice</li>
<li>1 dash cinnamon </li>
<li>2 cups rolled oats</li>
<li>3/4 cup raisins and craisins mixed </li>
<li>1/2 cup chopped walnuts</li>
<li>1 package 12 oz Hershey's cinnamon chips</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 350 and lightly grease and flour a 9x11 inch pan.</li>
<li>In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugars.</li>
<li>Add eggs one at a time mixing well between each addition. </li>
<li>Add vanilla and mix until all ingredients are incorporated. </li>
<li>In a large mixing bowl sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and pp spice.</li>
<li>Slowly add dry ingredients to wet mixing well between each addition. </li>
<li>Stir in cinnamon chips, walnuts, and raisins/crasins. </li>
<li>Add oats last.</li>
<li>Bake for 25 minutes or until inserted tooth pick comes out clean.</li>
</ol>
These are SUPER yummy! Enjoy :) KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1927317388758198701.post-26712500495870884912012-10-24T18:38:00.000-04:002012-10-24T18:38:00.084-04:00Jalapeno Jack Cornbread <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3czXIBAgbcDDQhSNOYg4qWTnbYaRyeHC0D1KzIUnepnizYU0Ea_TdN_El8h69rorKWY_TCAsy_SIoyhtHMHhuiGX5PuU8rvTjXKHKF3pSI7yO5ImmZlLUkbHEhrd1snWkrQOSMBv2Mcg/s1600/DSC04412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3czXIBAgbcDDQhSNOYg4qWTnbYaRyeHC0D1KzIUnepnizYU0Ea_TdN_El8h69rorKWY_TCAsy_SIoyhtHMHhuiGX5PuU8rvTjXKHKF3pSI7yO5ImmZlLUkbHEhrd1snWkrQOSMBv2Mcg/s200/DSC04412.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
Today we decided that since the weather forecast predicted less than hellish temperatures in Florida, it was finally time to bust out the crock pot and dust off the chili recipes. We set it all up this morning and went on our way to work. I decided on the way home from work that nothing tastes better with chili than cornbread, so I pulled out my corn meal and got to work.<br />
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We LOVE spicy foods in our house, so jalapeno was a necessary ingredient. The inspiration came from my the supervising teacher during my teaching internship in Georgia in 2008. She was such an amazing cook-- she always made sure I was fed, and fed well.<br />
<br />
Having grown up in the South, I have had my fair share of cornbread, but I will go out on a limb here to make the claim that this is BY FAR the best damn cornbread I have ever had! <br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHN4skIAgM1qy94k4jfRJy-IBDv0dP1pF9MCXV-rO5-EpHruwkTY2nfGR-1U5ZkLcCzMfGTr8kEF2Qncwi8yeSIXtjnBDBVgEfn59mKA9NkhKICWRJHBo3NCswTYFNs07xmKupYiIgUk/s1600/DSC04413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHN4skIAgM1qy94k4jfRJy-IBDv0dP1pF9MCXV-rO5-EpHruwkTY2nfGR-1U5ZkLcCzMfGTr8kEF2Qncwi8yeSIXtjnBDBVgEfn59mKA9NkhKICWRJHBo3NCswTYFNs07xmKupYiIgUk/s320/DSC04413.JPG" width="240" /></a>
<li> 1 medium size jalapeno (remove seeds and chop finely)</li>
<li>1 1/4 cups all purpose flour</li>
<li>3/4 cup corn meal</li>
<li>1/4 cup sugar</li>
<li>2 teaspoons baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/8 teaspoon cracked black pepper</li>
<li>1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper</li>
<li>1/8 teaspoon paprika </li>
<li>1/2 cup whole milk</li>
<li>1/2 cup shaken buttermilk</li>
<li>1/4 cup vegetable oil</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>1 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese (grated) </li>
</ul>
<b> Directions: </b><br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 400 and seed and dice up jalapeno.</li>
<li>In a large mixing bowl combine flour, corn meal, sugar, baking powder, salt, pepper, cayenne, paprika, jalapeno, and grated cheese. </li>
<li>In a small mixing bowl whisk together milk, buttermilk, oil, and egg.</li>
<li>Pour liquid mixture into dry mixture and stir together (just until dry ingredients are moist).</li>
<li>Spray muffin tins and fill 3/4 full.</li>
<li>Bake for 15-18 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out clean.</li>
</ol>
Serve warm and ENJOY! KJE0707http://www.blogger.com/profile/04149338683678048634noreply@blogger.com0