The Munch

Who doesn’t like spaghetti & meatballs? I know… it’s so, um… kiddie. Well, yeah, it is (!) and that makes it a perfect meal in my household. I usually make this dish with store bought turkey meatballs and sauce out of the jar (so easy, but kinda expensive). Now that I have a little more time on my hands, I decided to try the classic dish from scratch. Man… if I could kiss myself, I would. WORD.

I am amazed at how quickly this dish came together (it tasted like I slaved over this all day.) See how a few ingredients turned a regular Tuesday night dinner into something special.

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Today’s breakfast was simple: eggs, bacon, toast, fruit & juice. Other than cereal or Toaster Streudels, this meal is a sure bet in my family. I’m working on my eggs and they’re getting better ;). Nothing special to this dish other than baking the bacon, but that is so easy, it’s really not worth a corresponding photo.

I think I really wanted to post this is because I have to acknowledge the family for being supportive of my cooking obsession. They clear the table and wait to eat, just so mommy can get a shot for her blog. They also try almost everything I put before them. Very cool. And I’m extra blessed for having such a talented husband - he captures all of my work! Click for photos! (more…)

Ok, I have been on a pancake kick this month. I honestly think its because Probe is enjoying them so much. This last batch I made were a combination of Probe’s favorite flavors (for pancakes at least), so by special request, the blueberry banana pancake was born. As usual, (more…)

Even though I was dying to get in the kitchen, I had no idea what to make. I asked Probe what he felt like eating and he said a sandwich. I’m always thrown off by sandwiches - it’s just not food that I tend to crave. So, happy to have some direction, I head to the grocery store.

I of course baked my bacon and prepared my veggies. I toasted the bread slices, trimmed the edges and seasoned the mayo. I served it with a side salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, croutons and the raspberry dressing from the other night. I don’t want to waste anything - I’ve developed this habit of using as much of the food that I buy and not waste anything.

I called it the Christie Club because my friend Christie loved it, but it really could have been named the Kia Club or the Probe Club or the Haze Club. We all really enjoyed it!

Here’s a shot of today’s breakfast, banana pancakes w/chopped walnuts and a side of bacon. This was Probe’s plate.

While I love seeing the food on the plate, it’s a much better sight when the plate is completely empty. I love it that Probe “can’t” eat plain pancakes anymore. He must have a flavor, confectioners sugar and all…

Yes! I am talking about popcorn, the glorious, low calorie, easy-to-make snack for all ages. I originally bought this popcorn maker so my kids could make it by themselves. For one, I was over buying popcorn from the store every day (what a rip off!!) and for two, I hated making it, whether in the microwave or stove, every time they had a craving.

Anyway, I have come to love this machine. It is so inexpensive (I paid $15 on sale at Walmart) and it pops nearly every kernel every time. In less than 2 minutes, the kids have a big ass bowl to watch their favorite show with or to split amongst themselves. The clean-up is a cinch and I have the option of adding salt or butter. Most times I do, but sometimes I can get the kids to eat it with no toppings at all. Win win for everyone.