tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91550204615012516722024-03-19T17:07:07.077-05:00'Tis a Blessing to BeJeremiah 29:11Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.comBlogger215125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-71888881168608822702017-02-25T15:45:00.000-06:002017-02-25T15:45:38.013-06:00The Cookie Sheet: Gooey Butter Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTmzkF0854kpKffQFv369c89FrnwxomBoIjhBvp_GiFS_b43l9crMpICzvmEeHSeBgTnLTSc9vSut9zDuQEvOW6iqmbIWMz7GN75tTQG0XxCg5oEkIJ2aHhzNY2neS-PQDxY1jqDYHYc/s1600/Soccer+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTmzkF0854kpKffQFv369c89FrnwxomBoIjhBvp_GiFS_b43l9crMpICzvmEeHSeBgTnLTSc9vSut9zDuQEvOW6iqmbIWMz7GN75tTQG0XxCg5oEkIJ2aHhzNY2neS-PQDxY1jqDYHYc/s320/Soccer+2.PNG" width="180" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Friday Night Lights for us this week were not on a football field, a baseball field but a SOCCER Field! Watching my nieces play soccer was fun although I admit that I don't know much about the game of soccer other than you get a point for kicking the ball into the net! Right?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At the "last minute" I thought it might be nice to take the team a treat since they had a break between games so I did a quick search to find some cookie recipe that didn't require a trip to Publix. Found this one - Gooey Butter Cookies! It met all the criteria - 1) ingredients on hand, 2) easy and 3) quick!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; margin: 0px;">Gooey Butter Cookies</span></b></div>
<div>
</div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">½ cup (1 stick)
butter, softened</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">8 oz. </span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">block of cream cheese, softened</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 egg</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 t. vanilla</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 box yellow cake mix</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 cup of powdered
sugar</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Combine butter, cream
cheese, egg and vanilla in a bowl and mix until light and fluffy. Stir in the dry
cake mix until the dough becomes thick but smooth. Pour powdered sugar into a
separate bowl and set aside. Scoop a spoonful of the cookie dough and roll into
a ball, then dip in the powdered sugar until fully covered. Place cookie balls
on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUeQuo0dZQqknBfCMcriJrUEMwad8NnVdi9ND0MXJHbi3mmJ34WaMhL9YOa5gRxpZg6ndg_T06h6T9AIzgESpGTLCM5fd24dHzUmiS042RMVwyTeq_q1SyVZQOOJhuFZcgDZQWTrvFeA/s1600/Soccer+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUeQuo0dZQqknBfCMcriJrUEMwad8NnVdi9ND0MXJHbi3mmJ34WaMhL9YOa5gRxpZg6ndg_T06h6T9AIzgESpGTLCM5fd24dHzUmiS042RMVwyTeq_q1SyVZQOOJhuFZcgDZQWTrvFeA/s320/Soccer+4.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/7b6aenanp0m31co/Recipe%20Gooey%20Butter%20Cookies.docx?dl=0">Printable Version</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It also passed the taste test and we deemed it a "keeper" and worthy of sharing with you! I used my</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.pamperedchef.com/pws/carriehendrix/shop/Bakeware/Pastry+%26+Baking+Tools/Medium+Scoop/2540">medium cookie scoop from Pampered Chef</a> and it made nice size cookies. The powdered sugar tended to absorb into the dough so I sprinkled more powdered sugar over the cookies after I placed them on my beautiful crystal (actually Dollar General plastic) plate! Wrapped in cellophane and tied with gold and black ribbon for presentation to the Fort Payne Lady Wildcats Soccer Team!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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/AVvXsEiDzwwJZqQb63i8uuEdkcgHNyNkoqTy3gHxE6Guoz-wwOyfJiwa2VzrTeqXvshkGryI1l4QuCuRlDiRCT9J-VLUM96ywqOjjW_Qgc-O4kYcP6n_-peLzndaQUS8O9zbMuoLKf-2AOjZc-8/s1600/Soccer+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzwwJZqQb63i8uuEdkcgHNyNkoqTy3gHxE6Guoz-wwOyfJiwa2VzrTeqXvshkGryI1l4QuCuRlDiRCT9J-VLUM96ywqOjjW_Qgc-O4kYcP6n_-peLzndaQUS8O9zbMuoLKf-2AOjZc-8/s320/Soccer+3.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wearing our Black and Gold to support Madeline and Margaret!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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/AVvXsEh_5inb9ZTi1n_CTlrEr9f9L-CnkgWASNkd4zz6ZdFnQ7cTst3w_sHb3BCgtKUCVdn96hVPb9qhudjLBAStvzIbTkbl4v_1AJoATSLE9hSDWn2GXM9iHWORlk0y6n1cglU01mYpBf8VQBc/s1600/Soccer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5inb9ZTi1n_CTlrEr9f9L-CnkgWASNkd4zz6ZdFnQ7cTst3w_sHb3BCgtKUCVdn96hVPb9qhudjLBAStvzIbTkbl4v_1AJoATSLE9hSDWn2GXM9iHWORlk0y6n1cglU01mYpBf8VQBc/s320/Soccer.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
Fun Friday night with our favorite soccer players!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5inb9ZTi1n_CTlrEr9f9L-CnkgWASNkd4zz6ZdFnQ7cTst3w_sHb3BCgtKUCVdn96hVPb9qhudjLBAStvzIbTkbl4v_1AJoATSLE9hSDWn2GXM9iHWORlk0y6n1cglU01mYpBf8VQBc/s1600/Soccer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-76443702332530066452017-02-18T21:14:00.000-06:002017-02-18T21:14:36.423-06:00Annie's Night to Shine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEjtTb5xG_1yiaumC6TU0bQJ-xEZc1FaeKIzK3A8irozsVi2f8W0FR6POUTjAaDOBOv4HeHMsuSRv7JGkBY8m-x9RCOilUHP6b1Q8qF1OyY4eteirBl295qzijYSmujTYuGPJZtoK_ScROQ/s1600/NTS+-+Elle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTb5xG_1yiaumC6TU0bQJ-xEZc1FaeKIzK3A8irozsVi2f8W0FR6POUTjAaDOBOv4HeHMsuSRv7JGkBY8m-x9RCOilUHP6b1Q8qF1OyY4eteirBl295qzijYSmujTYuGPJZtoK_ScROQ/s320/NTS+-+Elle.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Payton (Annie's Buddy), Annie and Elle (Annie's Sister)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There are so many stories from "Night to Shine" 2017 that a book wouldn't hold them - at least, not one you could lift, anyway. And that's just in Tuscaloosa! Multiple our stories times 375 locations, 75,000 guests and 150,000 volunteers and that's ALOT. Don't ask me to do the math-I just know it's ALOT.</div>
<br />
Night to Shine is an "unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God's love, for people with special needs." I have to say "Night to Shine" is even more than this. It's all about God's love before, during and after the one night event. It has been one week and a day since our Annie was an honored guest at "Night to Shine" in Tuscaloosa and LOVE still abounds. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
To quote a friend "This.Man's.Heart" Wow!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEi-khcKH3bzSQ4YQDyq2xY036nXdkgxoQLnNK0zeYkTcNb2b30B0z0z-FPiMLLO2bOg1iqLjHoXB498MTzB0G2MdVGEZlcHFmEne27EcgiuhNlj67AMi9NuTfP9KMdNpQIysiGN6-a5RXY/s1600/NTS+-+Tim2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-khcKH3bzSQ4YQDyq2xY036nXdkgxoQLnNK0zeYkTcNb2b30B0z0z-FPiMLLO2bOg1iqLjHoXB498MTzB0G2MdVGEZlcHFmEne27EcgiuhNlj67AMi9NuTfP9KMdNpQIysiGN6-a5RXY/s320/NTS+-+Tim2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was definitely a night we will never forget!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just today, someone said to me - God gave him the vision and Tim Tebow acted on that vision. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thank You, Tim!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Like I said already, God's love was shown more than just that one night! Let me share with you a few of our stories. We were thrilled when we found out that Big Sandy Baptist Church would be hosting "Night to Shine" with the Tim Tebow Foundation! Big Sandy is close to us and we have friends who go to church there. As word got out, more and more people I ran into told me they had signed up to be a volunteer or a buddy! Simple as that. People just loving people!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Chick Fil A hosted a "Night to Shine" Night. The Allen family doesn't need an excuse to go to Chick Fil A. It is a family favorite already! Didn't think I could like Chick Fil A any more. Just after placing my order, a sweet lady approaches me. I had told my Big Sandy friend that I would like to help with the prom. She had passed that along to Rhonda Walker, who was the prom "organizer". It was Rhonda who greeted me at Chick Fil A. We talked about the prom and her passion for the event and about my Annie being a guest. She had one prayer request - to pray about how to give the guests in wheelchairs the same experience as the limo riders, realizing that it would be difficult, if not impossible, for them to ride the limo.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The following morning, Annie's bus driver, Ms. Pat(as we call her), told me that she had signed up to volunteer at the prom. She also wanted to know if there would be any need at the prom for her bus. Her bus was equipped for 3 wheelchairs. <i>Answered prayers</i>! Rhonda contacted the Tuscaloosa County School System through Pat and the bus limo was created. Ms. Pat and Ms. Tammy would end up providing "limo" services to all the guests in wheelchairs. But that was not enough! The bus was decorated with balloon, stars, ribbons and special lighting to make it an amazing experience!</div>
<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/AVvXsEiHxmJaV2PCOR0A_CdLhIGxkyLFAAPOhaHlpxQWnaUR6xm_1jqh6MrF3gqFb-YQbr2ORnDsALz_PTaSwbmj9Kj8_ugyicpgx6lb5VILfH3YUzB14_3y0_jUI8k-Kx4E21ZHOg9qeWHNM4I/s1600/NTS+-+Bus+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxmJaV2PCOR0A_CdLhIGxkyLFAAPOhaHlpxQWnaUR6xm_1jqh6MrF3gqFb-YQbr2ORnDsALz_PTaSwbmj9Kj8_ugyicpgx6lb5VILfH3YUzB14_3y0_jUI8k-Kx4E21ZHOg9qeWHNM4I/s320/NTS+-+Bus+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ms. Pat even rolled out the red carpet on the bus!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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/AVvXsEiQd7-negeoTnAB40BvmuVsi_b1ruy0hDDmxjjHXPp3c9OzLdXmyJYoS3UkXsqh3eoxSgBQ8Bk3bmFmB0gNYDeSoUb0bTJXyXvXwZP4UokgIuSXcWi9pQ8-N4ZSqKNe9VBFYJ7L9mXoNrw/s1600/NTS+-+Bus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQd7-negeoTnAB40BvmuVsi_b1ruy0hDDmxjjHXPp3c9OzLdXmyJYoS3UkXsqh3eoxSgBQ8Bk3bmFmB0gNYDeSoUb0bTJXyXvXwZP4UokgIuSXcWi9pQ8-N4ZSqKNe9VBFYJ7L9mXoNrw/s320/NTS+-+Bus.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who knew a bus could look so fancy?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQd7-negeoTnAB40BvmuVsi_b1ruy0hDDmxjjHXPp3c9OzLdXmyJYoS3UkXsqh3eoxSgBQ8Bk3bmFmB0gNYDeSoUb0bTJXyXvXwZP4UokgIuSXcWi9pQ8-N4ZSqKNe9VBFYJ7L9mXoNrw/s1600/NTS+-+Bus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><br /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In that same conversation, Ms. Pat told me that she would like to get Annie's dress for her. Long and some shade of blue was my only request. I gave her a size "range" because Annie had never worn such a dress. It was just the sweetest thing ever that she wanted to do this for Annie. Cue the happy tears! She also wanted to do Annie's make up and Ms. Tammy, her bus assistant, wanted to do her hair. Now I was thinking......how sweet, but I'm not real sure just how much make up or hair doing Miss Annie would allow.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On Sunday, before the prom, Ms. Pat came by with some dresses. The one she wore was the only one she tried on. It was fabulous! No alterations needed except, of course, the hem. The dress was just perfect and so were the silver shoes! A fairly tale, for sure! One day that week, Annie came home from school with a book. She always has something (or two) in her hand and never a book, but there it was - Cinderella, of course!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<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/AVvXsEi0bikMixh0Ksfu3MW-uiwLwSUIKNrRjqBP_T-D70gDUaZc_LBWLjKmHkSjq-BS8tI-8TZdBqSPx2_aCetQEGsXBFJLe0hEADxnNA8CXQIusR-mFKVqT5N43vzt0238ezSG4SLNAbFLJ7E/s1600/NTS+-+Shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0bikMixh0Ksfu3MW-uiwLwSUIKNrRjqBP_T-D70gDUaZc_LBWLjKmHkSjq-BS8tI-8TZdBqSPx2_aCetQEGsXBFJLe0hEADxnNA8CXQIusR-mFKVqT5N43vzt0238ezSG4SLNAbFLJ7E/s320/NTS+-+Shoes.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect shoes - just like a fairly tale!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the weeks and days leading up to the prom, I prayed and prayed that Annie would have an awesome experience - that she would be happy and that we weren't involving her in this event just to make us happy. I talked to her about it a lot. If you don't know her....she is non verbal but she understands a lot more than she can express. She experiences joy and she gives joy! She has her own way of communicating. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's the day of the prom. We check out of school at noon. Isn't that what other teenagers do on prom day? At school, I marvel at the Mom who is taking 5 of her children to the prom. "Last year these children were in an orphanage, tonight, they are going to the prom!" <i>More answered prayers!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ms. Pat, and then later Ms. Tammy, arrive for the make up and hair session. They remembered everything, even a beautiful rose and a personalized handerchief for Annie to hold in her hand. Annie goes everywhere with a blanket or two. She did not even take a blanket as she held that beautiful handkerchief instead. A blanket would have covered up that gorgeous dress. So, everything that I said Annie wouldn't do, she did! Ms. Pat applied foundation, eye shadow, blush, lip gloss and even mascara without a hitch! Annie was all smiles! Ms. Tammy did her hair with a beautiful crown comb and some bobby pins! She never even tried to take them out of her hair - I mean not all night! And we were able to protect that beautiful dress from injury by the wheelchair! <i>More answered prayers!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<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;"><div>
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlutmnU1HrKEGX5-r-CRBC74MtdUbc7-VTqlREHilTgwgxmeWrwbpeTN4g2h6NJetIrTqbP1SWwHVLdI0sM7qFEZj9_Dhj8nEh-Fd4xOczFZDxuHfI8CC6-OzvzoYphOsEtMXuVI7vWAQ/s320/NTS+-+Make+Up.jpg" width="240" /></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The queen's make up session</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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/AVvXsEh0x-yy-7LhpibiQvZD3krqxpDah0jhpOp9EYYD7Q9kXOx2Vaa-fnWv2YZOvn9msgUEKzcXDwB2cXhns-qtDL-55zNhVNZ4Tnamb9EjKHuuKyI6iEjlWOUL4R5f4HaCpdJDRbscVMQRqPQ/s1600/NTS+-+Handerchief.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0x-yy-7LhpibiQvZD3krqxpDah0jhpOp9EYYD7Q9kXOx2Vaa-fnWv2YZOvn9msgUEKzcXDwB2cXhns-qtDL-55zNhVNZ4Tnamb9EjKHuuKyI6iEjlWOUL4R5f4HaCpdJDRbscVMQRqPQ/s320/NTS+-+Handerchief.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A treasure! Ms. Pat thought of every detail!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
So we leave from the prom and I've never seen a happier princess or </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Queen as she would later be crowned!</div>
<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/AVvXsEgdy_1YFUWi19rwQQZPT5x9PpCuMXv4TMSI07YITqLqI81H8pkkJKLHnhO-1j5iaOXLKXHnSbI5utI1eCuzhKsCuMcFh9kv44-zoH7NACpqAKKGIWEl-_MJwgvsg-UeajEgFM4-DXaDNS4/s1600/NTS+-+Car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdy_1YFUWi19rwQQZPT5x9PpCuMXv4TMSI07YITqLqI81H8pkkJKLHnhO-1j5iaOXLKXHnSbI5utI1eCuzhKsCuMcFh9kv44-zoH7NACpqAKKGIWEl-_MJwgvsg-UeajEgFM4-DXaDNS4/s320/NTS+-+Car.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She knew it was a special night!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Entering the elementary school where "Night to Shine" was held, Annie was greeted by people she knew and many she didn't know by such sweet words and lots of "oohs" and "ahs". Then we met our new friend - Payton. Beautiful Payton had signed up to be a "buddy" for the night. She greeted Annie with the sweetest smile and away they went to the middle of the dance floor, never once showing any hesitancy in hanging out with Annie all night! A perfect match! I decided she must have been a Special Education major but no, Public Relations/Communications. She would later post on her Instagram account "Oh Annie girl you shine so bright! Wouldn't have wanted to spend my Friday night anywhere else". This was a college girl yall!<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/AVvXsEgao2INBrAWAk2B9b4mT7WzfcnTRd5NLzG1SYQ03ox-MuHZyrcjdyhhOGKflP7kY1ZhFGpKKo-MjDf4QmHaaDz4AJTR93lXZB-gs9skNGPXN9dpbG2Kd0EBAkMr7ozrMFoJ_ZoLL9NPO0s/s1600/NTS+-+Sprayberry+Staff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgao2INBrAWAk2B9b4mT7WzfcnTRd5NLzG1SYQ03ox-MuHZyrcjdyhhOGKflP7kY1ZhFGpKKo-MjDf4QmHaaDz4AJTR93lXZB-gs9skNGPXN9dpbG2Kd0EBAkMr7ozrMFoJ_ZoLL9NPO0s/s320/NTS+-+Sprayberry+Staff.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome Party! Annie's "people" from school! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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/AVvXsEj3NjdNnWCh41bw_nSDaKqJWANBI8o8dqazYUUb33MDgFuC_TQpAHNnG0tDOZfZdYi3zjOZy3iRRRgBp1tzqUrh2YwkCK510vafgb_y8pMbofUIIkhIZkz44Sz6ljGPDWGGjj8fGqDl4Mw/s1600/NTS+-+Buddy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NjdNnWCh41bw_nSDaKqJWANBI8o8dqazYUUb33MDgFuC_TQpAHNnG0tDOZfZdYi3zjOZy3iRRRgBp1tzqUrh2YwkCK510vafgb_y8pMbofUIIkhIZkz44Sz6ljGPDWGGjj8fGqDl4Mw/s320/NTS+-+Buddy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Payton and Annie posing for photos on the red carpet!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
There were so many sweet moments but I will share a few. First of all, at dinner, Annie became a bit upset from some unknown reason. In a heartbeat, a sweet friend came over to tell her it was OK and that she loved her. Now that warmed this mother's heart! I didn't know the beautiful guest but apparently she and Annie rode the same bus at some point. She was Annie's true friend!</div>
<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/AVvXsEhciVXF-7nlzJZqLUByo-QtyFJUFMZQc7_6xg1NIkPsaKkvrAw3mXlhKCh2nNbFxZA4KKi1H2UM98XUbhz3g-jbmaVROIjtJ9VOMkUgz4i3XEmXvL5HUSOyu1ZOqvBryV8WxJgRKVPmimM/s1600/NTS+-+Becca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhciVXF-7nlzJZqLUByo-QtyFJUFMZQc7_6xg1NIkPsaKkvrAw3mXlhKCh2nNbFxZA4KKi1H2UM98XUbhz3g-jbmaVROIjtJ9VOMkUgz4i3XEmXvL5HUSOyu1ZOqvBryV8WxJgRKVPmimM/s320/NTS+-+Becca.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's a true friend!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another sweet moment was when Joey Pike stopped his "buddy", as she was pushing him on the dance floor, just to hang out with Annie. Then he took the handles of Annie's chair and they were "dancing" like everybody else. Annie and Joey don't know each other. I have known Joey since he was an infant. Joey is the inspiration for <a href="http://www.eagleswingsoftuscaloosa.org/">Eagle's Wings</a> a non-profit agency that provides day habilitation services for adults with mild, moderate, and severe intellectual and physical disabilities. <br />
Talk about God using our special children - Wow! Joey, whose life expectancy was about 2 years old, inspires people every day and on this night, he stole my heart as he made a new friend in Annie!<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/AVvXsEiMyG8CZS88MipPEiXxBbh95Pt-m-3mLdg00WKTf9lw0VN5UzwSQPfLO6dWT0fI7esRd81Ycz5qgXrc2gBOnyHWwpBzcmnbtLCFu0G2wwXr9EXKvLqd4tr5oELaHfjT488RgpU6uWe43Cw/s1600/NTS+-+Joey2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyG8CZS88MipPEiXxBbh95Pt-m-3mLdg00WKTf9lw0VN5UzwSQPfLO6dWT0fI7esRd81Ycz5qgXrc2gBOnyHWwpBzcmnbtLCFu0G2wwXr9EXKvLqd4tr5oELaHfjT488RgpU6uWe43Cw/s320/NTS+-+Joey2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No words for how sweet this is.....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigYkk4GlgHS8GpXXsezFI-WItX0T7X7ZpDfE8MkMCRrIQ8QFV7h_Wi6jpK9dGfnHrjg0UH-ZWKw3BeoI-SumFvUiMQQU98RMAmqqXVRgj0OKuG7ESCGaDe4ewmj8jZbuGgG6BxJfw0IxQ/s1600/NTS+-+Joey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigYkk4GlgHS8GpXXsezFI-WItX0T7X7ZpDfE8MkMCRrIQ8QFV7h_Wi6jpK9dGfnHrjg0UH-ZWKw3BeoI-SumFvUiMQQU98RMAmqqXVRgj0OKuG7ESCGaDe4ewmj8jZbuGgG6BxJfw0IxQ/s320/NTS+-+Joey.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Annie has an amazing group of "typical" friends at Valley View, our church. Some of those girls were volunteers at night to shine and, of course, in teenage girl fashion, there were photos!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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/AVvXsEiLG1kxjX2Hqn_gL28HFtHSAQk55sNMXnuvfEQT1hnOlb5rXtrm_hFwUpr49Q5WptfjcQlasO2n3qTXsWpj1sU3evvb_CKIW1-NNfCTyD0X_WGYzf3aiwCVIuGiyPN-YoOGcUbplcFIy1M/s1600/NTS+-+Matti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLG1kxjX2Hqn_gL28HFtHSAQk55sNMXnuvfEQT1hnOlb5rXtrm_hFwUpr49Q5WptfjcQlasO2n3qTXsWpj1sU3evvb_CKIW1-NNfCTyD0X_WGYzf3aiwCVIuGiyPN-YoOGcUbplcFIy1M/s320/NTS+-+Matti.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Matti!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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/AVvXsEj6mAeEA0M7Dt3GfDDSCe7jCeM_xlUTCF02LPljpC1kELW8K_-9OHyVIdclcZPZCuJIHuhLEMa39lkKBB5-WRGs6cFp_KCiIw0nfT0fm7Nc37pNFAkCkHu-CR6W7IOUBnqDjNqV45KLS0M/s1600/NTS+-+Emily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mAeEA0M7Dt3GfDDSCe7jCeM_xlUTCF02LPljpC1kELW8K_-9OHyVIdclcZPZCuJIHuhLEMa39lkKBB5-WRGs6cFp_KCiIw0nfT0fm7Nc37pNFAkCkHu-CR6W7IOUBnqDjNqV45KLS0M/s320/NTS+-+Emily.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Emily!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You know how, on prom night, groups meet and take group pictures? At least, around here, they do! So it just seemed fitting that our Sprayberry Stars should get together for a group photo. In that photo alone, are many beautiful stories! And behind all of them are families who were so happy for them having their Night to Shine! Our Stars shined brightly!</div>
<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;"><div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQPG7CvNjzsZE10_dEAJFKP9Tmy4l7PUMvrV2yxcynYlFjp5d50US-7Jq9DoFkY4cBS-v7KTN38NZZl18mBCSlkwCveF8ba6bzHDgclesTr6HysvB6nb1CMI_Dl03IxCwo9bvc2JrgOYA/s1600/NTS+-+Friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQPG7CvNjzsZE10_dEAJFKP9Tmy4l7PUMvrV2yxcynYlFjp5d50US-7Jq9DoFkY4cBS-v7KTN38NZZl18mBCSlkwCveF8ba6bzHDgclesTr6HysvB6nb1CMI_Dl03IxCwo9bvc2JrgOYA/s320/NTS+-+Friends.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Annie's friends from school - our Sprayberry Stars!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our sweet friend, Alex, actually got a "Promposal" delivered to her at school by her handsome date!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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/AVvXsEiUjiNMA5xg-NuTONwB3PqMsbEHWHZ3X5SVv6HOcASBXqLhWXFNJ6Uo8ZOVm5abuNPgAr9ul6XDyS5YPGtg7Z6eBnO4IWylTJ8bGy6GhJYqnvIeqyYgu0iOUA3-DdxP6sBY8qI82q1P4r4/s1600/NTS+-+Alex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjiNMA5xg-NuTONwB3PqMsbEHWHZ3X5SVv6HOcASBXqLhWXFNJ6Uo8ZOVm5abuNPgAr9ul6XDyS5YPGtg7Z6eBnO4IWylTJ8bGy6GhJYqnvIeqyYgu0iOUA3-DdxP6sBY8qI82q1P4r4/s320/NTS+-+Alex.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alex and Gavin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the days since "Night to Shine", it has been such a joy to see everyone's pictures, hear their stories and just smile as friends and family continue to comment on the photos from Annie's special night! The FB, Instagram and Twitter likes are too many to count! What really matters is how God's love shined before, during and after the event that was meant to show God's love to individuals with special needs. One Mom commented to me, "It just felt like Jesus". The hands and feet of Jesus were definitely busy! In the words of one of Annie's teachers, "this should be the norm"! </div>
<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/AVvXsEiYwlmZ3aqglkPIWtEnsNz28P629Y89qQ-P3qyELq79IUv2wG7TSGrX8gy8NEvkv2fNAYQUXwfw90DWWBQJ0Ztr6sIXphGAF_tVqhpOJA96R_HjaEAyGja5eALppRV1pgyt6G_WMNoRZbI/s1600/NTS+-+Crown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwlmZ3aqglkPIWtEnsNz28P629Y89qQ-P3qyELq79IUv2wG7TSGrX8gy8NEvkv2fNAYQUXwfw90DWWBQJ0Ztr6sIXphGAF_tVqhpOJA96R_HjaEAyGja5eALppRV1pgyt6G_WMNoRZbI/s320/NTS+-+Crown.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Queen is Crowned!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
THANK YOU</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
Tim Tebow - for loving people with special needs</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="https://www.timtebowfoundation.org/">Tim Tebow Foundation</a> - for sponsoring Night to Shine</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.bigsandybaptist.org/">Big Sandy Baptist Church</a> - for sponsoring Night to Shine</div>
<div align="center">
Rhonda Walker - for having the Passion and Organization</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://bigsandyelementary.tcss.net/">Big Sandy Elementary School</a> - for sharing your beautiful facility</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.tcss.net/">Tuscaloosa County School System</a> - for sharing your bus</div>
<div align="center">
Pat Bruner - for making a Queen and driving the Queen</div>
<div align="center">
Tammy Cook - for the Queen's hair and the fun bus ride</div>
<div align="center">
Elle Allen - for being there for her sister and being official photographer</div>
<div align="center">
Sprayberry Staff - for giving up off duty time to support your students</div>
<div align="center">
(Neal Guy, Jamie Evans, Traci Hollyhand, Diann Kearley)</div>
<div align="center">
Payton Cato - for being the best "buddy" anyone could ask for</div>
<div align="center">
Matti Morrow and Emily Watkins - for celebrating the night and volunteering your time</div>
<div align="center">
Joey Pike and Rebecca Walker - for being true friends</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="https://www.chick-fil-a.com/Locations/AL/Tuscaloosa-South">Chick Fil A</a> - for donating food at the event</div>
<div align="center">
Publix - for the beautiful flower corsages</div>
<div align="center">
Every Buddy and Every Volunteer</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
and most of all</div>
<div align="center">
to God for blessing this very special night!</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-50735920844826022912016-09-16T08:00:00.000-05:002016-09-16T08:00:30.253-05:00Friday Football Fare - Southwest Chicken Tortilla Pinwheels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QDIzCoQcI_E-OZ8aRNT5Xk2INEO_w_8ko0OBDMMrk9AY3fO8Humv1I4-ogEU7Hfhejqh7TeM3WK3caMvrEeSZ6rkavAg8gmQ1NGRPhdzkhXbH51M5FnS5GZcD8OOtt6RMpjTNdZoyIE/s1600/Southwest+Chicken+Tortilla+Pinwheels.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-QDIzCoQcI_E-OZ8aRNT5Xk2INEO_w_8ko0OBDMMrk9AY3fO8Humv1I4-ogEU7Hfhejqh7TeM3WK3caMvrEeSZ6rkavAg8gmQ1NGRPhdzkhXbH51M5FnS5GZcD8OOtt6RMpjTNdZoyIE/s320/Southwest+Chicken+Tortilla+Pinwheels.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is a savory treat for this weekend's games! These Southwest Chicken Tortilla Pinwheels were a hit at our house. Warning: they have a little "kick" to them, but they are really good. Of course, the jalapenos are optional. The best thing about them is they are very easy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Southwest Chicken Tortilla Pinwheels</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 8
oz. pkg. cream cheese</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">3 T.
sour cream</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 can
Rotel tomatoes, slightly drained</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">½ t.
minced garlic</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">½ t.
seasoning salt</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">½ t.
black pepper</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 C.
shredded cheese</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">5
green onions, thinly sliced</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chopped
jalapenos, to taste (Optional)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 can
chopped, cooked chicken, drained</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">5
large flour tortillas</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Combine
cream cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, garlic and seasonings. Stir in
cheese, green onion, jalapeno and chicken. Divide mixture between the tortillas
, spreading evenly, leaving a ½ inch border around the edge. Roll up tightly.
Wrap pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap and place in refrigerator to chill for,
at least, an hour or until ready to serve. Remove from refrigerator and slice
into 2 inch pieces.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/gn7hwsppk4b4rij/Recipe%20-%20Southwest%20%20Chicken%20Tortilla%20Pinwheels.docx?dl=0">PRINT</a></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">I saw a similar version of this recipe on "Tide and Tigers Today" this weekend and they used ham instead of chicken. That would work, too! Enjoy and may your team win this weekend!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-15872726834688141542016-09-14T23:42:00.000-05:002016-09-14T23:48:39.021-05:00Thankful Thursday - A New School for Annie<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/AVvXsEhiOeJD6DoIsaV0_fESECqsMtMMHJPAUu8TZNyo-X6ScEg1HlhOUNbtCJh0XnamSHALZvSqj627u7M0AozSCqcSGTnwVRnVX3D6l8DrTiWZRCXnyxQ9jMKR5eZmqMQMZ3Z_FCPcmKRemW4/s1600/Annie+Back+to+School+2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiOeJD6DoIsaV0_fESECqsMtMMHJPAUu8TZNyo-X6ScEg1HlhOUNbtCJh0XnamSHALZvSqj627u7M0AozSCqcSGTnwVRnVX3D6l8DrTiWZRCXnyxQ9jMKR5eZmqMQMZ3Z_FCPcmKRemW4/s320/Annie+Back+to+School+2016.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rolling out the red carpet for our students on the first day of school!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On Thursday, August 11, 2016, the doors opened at the Sprayberry Center at Lloyd Wood Education Center for the first time. Sprayberry has been Annie's school since she turned 3 and transitioned from Early Intervention with Community Service Programs of West Alabama. While Sprayberry is technically a "center", it is Annie's school and always will be!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.tcss.net/Page/65">Sprayberry Center at Lloyd Wood Education Center</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sprayberry Regional Education Center opened it's doors in 1974, under the direction of Dr. Charles Sprayberry, to serve the special needs population in Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties. Through the years, the population of students has changed and the needs are different than they were in 1974. Both the changing student population and the age of the building contributed to the need for a new facility to serve Annie and her fellow students.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There has been talk of a new facility for several years. The PTO committed a quite a while ago to not spending money on anything we could not move if and when we should ever get a new facility. I am thankful today for the leadership who made our dreams become a reality. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First of all, the last two principals who have served our students are men who truly care about our Sprayberry Stars! This initiative began under the leadership of John Barnacastle and was completed under the leadership of Neal Guy. For these guys, education is really all about the children. I am thankful for their dedication to serving our school. Incidentally, both of these men served our school previously, left for a period of time and came back to serve our Sprayberry Stars. I think that says a lot about our special students!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Less than a month after Dr. Elizabeth Swinford starting her job as Superintendent, a group of Sprayberry Staff met her for the first time at Nick's Kids Luncheon. We were all so anxious to move to a new facility (and we knew the former Lloyd Wood Middle School was available) that I was afraid we would bombard her with requests. Actually, it was Dr. Swinford who brought up the subject when she said, "I'm trying to get you guys moved to Lloyd Wood". For the first time, I felt like their was really hope that it would happen. I am thankful that Dr. Swinford saw the need immediately and had the vision for the beautiful new facility that now houses our special needs students. She was so excited when the Tuscaloosa County Commission approved sales tax funds to be used for the renovation and she shared that enthusiasm with our families. I am thankful to Dr. Walter Davie for seeing this project through to completion.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am thankful to the Tuscaloosa County Board of Education, past and present for deciding to invest in our students. I am personally thankful to Mark Nelson, past chairman of the board, for answering every phone call, every text and every email and answering questions in the grocery line at Publix or at La Gran Fiesta. He assured me it was going to happen and it did! I am especially thankful to the board for including the beautiful handicapped accessible playground in the construction cost, allowing us to spend PTO funds to equip our sensory-motor rooms and provide therapy equipment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij89jB0YTOnKViium8VHxGmx_Z1sIqmxzqDhSbHuSREMZ3AeAUrOX_f2jQTLj7mSCbbjHE2Rs46Eoz5Q_eb9Op1-AAh7Fde62s9u96BgBAvRCpwvxUeDBQEEdifzTY4uTKxD0405JMz5Q/s1600/DSCN2776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij89jB0YTOnKViium8VHxGmx_Z1sIqmxzqDhSbHuSREMZ3AeAUrOX_f2jQTLj7mSCbbjHE2Rs46Eoz5Q_eb9Op1-AAh7Fde62s9u96BgBAvRCpwvxUeDBQEEdifzTY4uTKxD0405JMz5Q/s320/DSCN2776.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzNdmRbqeeP5DAi6T-gHNi85z9dtK2KXnZ6aJy_6UyM-oWJtBRX5wG0tyFOev3_RK8hzGaVrQoRoRASEv18lkRoPZEpHd5shXyeUqcOOIXqmHZwSV7qgVEfhHEYo4lE1LYL9dfyBqa9o/s1600/DSCN2777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzNdmRbqeeP5DAi6T-gHNi85z9dtK2KXnZ6aJy_6UyM-oWJtBRX5wG0tyFOev3_RK8hzGaVrQoRoRASEv18lkRoPZEpHd5shXyeUqcOOIXqmHZwSV7qgVEfhHEYo4lE1LYL9dfyBqa9o/s320/DSCN2777.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZlqXWNlRmppCMMyamcQlrSfKd3v7ibi4nSJke6w8bByVjgmpIW__JOP0J73dwRg9qT5fq9vtarOFd6gsKm7LJG_39vMtWpblxJxcHaOXorgTku9ZNfR0n60eu4bNY-WZgkOGmLFdNkj8/s1600/DSCN2778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZlqXWNlRmppCMMyamcQlrSfKd3v7ibi4nSJke6w8bByVjgmpIW__JOP0J73dwRg9qT5fq9vtarOFd6gsKm7LJG_39vMtWpblxJxcHaOXorgTku9ZNfR0n60eu4bNY-WZgkOGmLFdNkj8/s320/DSCN2778.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTyRC9ty3R5HNwOWgvf-IXdTkGGDuxvjlTwq73gQSaMkGtqhIDjWX1HlQZ2tACnN3WHo-xxuQPaATophIUjSdkXTFYVoXfDaSbLNjFBo55lvLzpLneIip_AeDf28DVTUnNZTDf4Ilgw0/s1600/DSCN2779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTyRC9ty3R5HNwOWgvf-IXdTkGGDuxvjlTwq73gQSaMkGtqhIDjWX1HlQZ2tACnN3WHo-xxuQPaATophIUjSdkXTFYVoXfDaSbLNjFBo55lvLzpLneIip_AeDf28DVTUnNZTDf4Ilgw0/s320/DSCN2779.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sprayberry has never been about the building to me. It is the amazing people that take care of, train, and educate our children every day! Now we have the building to match and for that, I am most thankful! I was quite overwhelmed when I walked into the building for the first time - it's bright, shiny, spacious, colorful, and so much more than we dreamed! It will provide so many more opportunities for Annie and her friends! And I'm most thankful of all for the smiles on the faces of our staff and students, who really are what it's all about! I do believe the best is yet to come!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, here's to the Sprayberry Center at Lloyd Wood Education Center - wishing you many blessings as you have so blessed the life of our Annie! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-38915062038527875292016-09-12T21:10:00.002-05:002016-09-12T21:10:41.825-05:00Pumpkin Season: Pumpkin Pie Crescents<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xrF8i-bFnKkfFPq4rRKQ_MpY0R1CbO3M0ZFfAPfVy5tui_Uio5c8xVyu9LB4joHtMuG2D_uPxW9kzW4kuoIg9bYS8a1lS2dLxQpeBeN2Xz_qjxM43U5s1-NHlB94dhb8IUNP0iB3NBM/s400/Pumpkin+Pie+Crescents+2.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
If you are craving that awesome pumpkin pie flavor but you want to save the Pumpkin Pies for the holidays, here you go! A very quick and easy Pumpkin Pie Crescent!</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="ERSInstructions" id="recipe_btf_waypoint">
<div class="adunitwrapper" id="recipe_btf_wrapper" style="display: block; min-height: 264px; width: 300px;">
<div class="adunit" data-google-query-id="CNGw0sGsiM8CFQcZgQodNm0FfA" id="recipe_btf">
<div id="google_ads_iframe_/1030006/spendwithpennies_recipe_btf_0__container__" style="border-image: none; border: 0pt; display: inline-block; height: 250px; width: 300px;">
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Pumpkin Pie Crescents</span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 roll Pillsbury Crescent rolls</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">½ C. canned pumpkin pie filling</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">½ t. cinnamon</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 T. brown sugar</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 egg yolk</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Glaze</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">½ C. powdered sugar</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 T. syrup</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">½-1 T. milk</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine pumpkin pie filling,
egg yolk, cinnamon and brown sugar. Unroll crescents and place 1 slightly
heaping tablespoon of pumpkin pie mix on each crescent. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Roll into crescent fashion and bake according to
temperature on crescent package until rolls are browned well.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Mix glaze ingredients with a whisk until smooth.
Place in a Ziplock bag. Snip the corner of the bag to make a very small opening
and drizzle glaze over crescent rolls. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Serve and enjoy!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
</div>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="0" id="google_ads_iframe_/1030006/spendwithpennies_recipe_btf_0__hidden__" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1030006/spendwithpennies_recipe_btf_0__hidden__" scrolling="no" style="border-image: none; border: 0px; display: none; vertical-align: bottom; visibility: hidden;" title="" width="0"></iframe></div>
<div class="adunitlabel">
<div class="pubnation" data-target="recipe_btf">
<br /></div>
<div class="pubnation" data-target="recipe_btf">
<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/pcknde07i6fg23r/Recipe%20-%20Pumpkin%20Pie%20Crescents.docx?dl=0">PRINT</a></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQZhyZP-3atyZafKaWylLpom2-hpHB1xC96mMoJar3B3W5traS8jc7JvhjvYRNLjE30ixoGKVse0WZr8UdHdsWtqJMpGxH_QiQGHcrcLNBICgQqWPykMSYGFt2x2w9MTp64L3CaQNYKk/s1600/Pumpkin+Pie+Crescents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQZhyZP-3atyZafKaWylLpom2-hpHB1xC96mMoJar3B3W5traS8jc7JvhjvYRNLjE30ixoGKVse0WZr8UdHdsWtqJMpGxH_QiQGHcrcLNBICgQqWPykMSYGFt2x2w9MTp64L3CaQNYKk/s400/Pumpkin+Pie+Crescents.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Serve for breakfast, brunch, lunch or anytime treat with a cup of your favorite coffee!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
By the way, if you like Pumpkin Spice coffee, New England Coffee makes it and it is a BOGO this week at Publix!</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-83440001619688256082016-09-11T14:50:00.001-05:002016-09-11T14:50:26.195-05:00The Red Bandanna - Remembering 9/11/01<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXe88fxFd2MWZP1vBr_k_rJcMJAlqBgUetqYJxIUbML8WwIoU4FFJw27_weEGefgIfv5muEpAUODlB_EIWwB7ryRGje0b8_EY1eds8uUVkimzcOOKHZbGi-CHPvVpF9pu-GCyP-JNXokI/s1600/Red+Bandana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXe88fxFd2MWZP1vBr_k_rJcMJAlqBgUetqYJxIUbML8WwIoU4FFJw27_weEGefgIfv5muEpAUODlB_EIWwB7ryRGje0b8_EY1eds8uUVkimzcOOKHZbGi-CHPvVpF9pu-GCyP-JNXokI/s320/Red+Bandana.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Where were you on this day 15 years ago? I remember well that I was co-leading New Employee Orientation at DCH Regional Medical Center when some came in and told us the news. While I didn't have an active part in orientation at the time, I went back and forth to the PT department to keep up with the television reports and keep everyone posted. Disbelief and fear prevailed that this was happening in our country!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It will always be easy for me to remember how long ago this happened - it was the year my first child was born. She was almost 5 months old and all I could think about was what kind of country she was going to grow up in? I hurried home from work at the end of the day to hug her tightly and pray for our country - for her safety!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In 2012, on the 10th anniversary of the attack in New York City, Tom Renaldi of ESPN told this story of "The Man in The Red Bandanna". I ran across it again today. It is a beautiful story of a true servant who put others before himself and saved the lives of 12 people - a young guy named Welles Crowther, former Boston College athlete who worked in the 2nd tower. Listen to his story and be inspired by the heart of this young man!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/WC36eqR1nxg/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WC36eqR1nxg?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As my friend, Gina, reminded me, 15 years ago today,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>God was our refuge and strength and today he still is!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMC4wbVsIzTqGFmE3XJReiOE9yNKj1EecwxnRBBVd1G5zPo6Ah3nGZ__RKIZpZlpOEayydPGBviJVQAwDNHdCDeNPrcqU96TFG6rEjjE3SWvM9KWn6xW2g3Ld2TSNZvd4Ri0tdHAjxOk/s1600/New+York+and+Beach+096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMC4wbVsIzTqGFmE3XJReiOE9yNKj1EecwxnRBBVd1G5zPo6Ah3nGZ__RKIZpZlpOEayydPGBviJVQAwDNHdCDeNPrcqU96TFG6rEjjE3SWvM9KWn6xW2g3Ld2TSNZvd4Ri0tdHAjxOk/s320/New+York+and+Beach+096.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSbuxHSNRDRrEDNUiDZmprtEwYJLBuVIQhMsHNdqef8si3rnWBMgXkmJye88xadNhdHrklxgU5HijblUjwCPv0H-xINrevUHcNy7SePG5hZNQ79CWqKxpRR21w9tR9zlby1kiDCan430/s1600/New+York+and+Beach+098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSbuxHSNRDRrEDNUiDZmprtEwYJLBuVIQhMsHNdqef8si3rnWBMgXkmJye88xadNhdHrklxgU5HijblUjwCPv0H-xINrevUHcNy7SePG5hZNQ79CWqKxpRR21w9tR9zlby1kiDCan430/s320/New+York+and+Beach+098.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3DzP0NJVT8YleJTc313F1-zMOA68ZqHenKRy4IJmbtPO-WIh-tMnFSZCmPGbZK4DvzglHKsSRQvBgLVAMA004MwyMwb6BYkyM4lBhP4kiX3C0eL-rI8_HZas86Wyu-Ivq29pA1aaBfBU/s1600/New+York+and+Beach+099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3DzP0NJVT8YleJTc313F1-zMOA68ZqHenKRy4IJmbtPO-WIh-tMnFSZCmPGbZK4DvzglHKsSRQvBgLVAMA004MwyMwb6BYkyM4lBhP4kiX3C0eL-rI8_HZas86Wyu-Ivq29pA1aaBfBU/s320/New+York+and+Beach+099.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdIXCRVUixzQQcQjZlmHskUYWGXk2q4GZ4y1kxai4exdve_EB0fDGNJXGQ7fApsyaxc9_3s_DTfUuofRklP1qDzWZSthNsGP-o1U1cC-6YirsE9sf67FapgZmV2XWlw9qPNodkL1DVdE/s1600/New+York+and+Beach+101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdIXCRVUixzQQcQjZlmHskUYWGXk2q4GZ4y1kxai4exdve_EB0fDGNJXGQ7fApsyaxc9_3s_DTfUuofRklP1qDzWZSthNsGP-o1U1cC-6YirsE9sf67FapgZmV2XWlw9qPNodkL1DVdE/s320/New+York+and+Beach+101.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-zmNAekC-5ly1pspseZt1SVol15gzZRaCTsts1jebE-tuETLT_nkUwfyJSEyJGZquVtEmbaKJ3VzsZ2B_S7QLejdC0_cknGqDqFbY06SeffoCdyv3cn_WqZ8hJuimrLGS7e2teGRfq04/s1600/New+York+and+Beach+103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-zmNAekC-5ly1pspseZt1SVol15gzZRaCTsts1jebE-tuETLT_nkUwfyJSEyJGZquVtEmbaKJ3VzsZ2B_S7QLejdC0_cknGqDqFbY06SeffoCdyv3cn_WqZ8hJuimrLGS7e2teGRfq04/s320/New+York+and+Beach+103.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGbqcWmSfQE8Mfh4gYASVS3OsZCOfdmHA1_-TaxKBZftcWI4CXrJBfqMazzZblu_NvqwYnEHE_ZhB1TEQnYiAsp-LPCnNIQMhCKHolhQIDIagzpnnUqYeRC4qohntCB4ZLC0gNsp3wNuU/s1600/New+York+and+Beach+104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGbqcWmSfQE8Mfh4gYASVS3OsZCOfdmHA1_-TaxKBZftcWI4CXrJBfqMazzZblu_NvqwYnEHE_ZhB1TEQnYiAsp-LPCnNIQMhCKHolhQIDIagzpnnUqYeRC4qohntCB4ZLC0gNsp3wNuU/s320/New+York+and+Beach+104.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<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/AVvXsEhCqZbI-xjsfqRCeRn4dypqRUC2BYnjVYJXQBMNRKgsBgrLDp-mznBQJiTaonO9eBB_h4JOZCpffukCPmqZk26u06jMrDC_Xzg15fPPf31Nr0yS7b6GA80B0XfmAC1b3fgEPG_FJUJoqbk/s1600/Elle+Ground+Zero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCqZbI-xjsfqRCeRn4dypqRUC2BYnjVYJXQBMNRKgsBgrLDp-mznBQJiTaonO9eBB_h4JOZCpffukCPmqZk26u06jMrDC_Xzg15fPPf31Nr0yS7b6GA80B0XfmAC1b3fgEPG_FJUJoqbk/s320/Elle+Ground+Zero.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
My reminder that God answered my prayers for this precious child that day!</div>
<div>
Elle is 15 and loves NYC!</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In 2015, Barry, Elle and I were able to visit the 911 Memorial in New York City and able to see, up close and personal, the area affected and the names of everyone who perished that day. Wish I had known to look for Welles Crowther - "The Man in the Red Bandanna"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The video begins and ends with the question "What would you do if it were your last hour?" and "Who would remember you?" Questions to ponder..... so, I pulled out a red bandanna, put it in place in my kitchen where I would see it every day and be reminded to make it all to count for something. It may not be saving lives as Welles did, but we call all do more for others.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"If this country could pull together and have compassion that is has every year on 9/11, this country could truly be wonderful in every aspect."...... Katie Toxey</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well said, my friend!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-79111350383694329082016-09-09T07:30:00.000-05:002016-09-09T07:30:20.963-05:00Friday Football Fare - Crimson White Cookies<div style="text-align: center;">
It's almost Game Day - you're tailgating on campus, taking a road trip or watching games at home - here is a yummy cookie recipe for you to make. Typically, you see these cookies around Christmas but, who says we must wait for Christmas for these delicious soft batch cookies. They just so happen to include the colors of my team so I call them Crimson White Cookies. Everyone may not call them by that same name but everyone will call them good! See the link below for the recipe and listen when they say "do not over bake" - soft and chewy makes the best cookie! Enjoy!</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRIeshgNckbs4WwUGNpTbx23wx-JxncCw6qDVNMGdIrboFwyYdLqLXIOM52vrJfUMJ01BXX3mHFgLRzEQILBOE8AktV0ZH28wyVKbGo6ADfIRkjWGJkURL07277_mYEquugl9I4Kt6I0U/s1600/Blog+-+Crimson+White+Cookies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRIeshgNckbs4WwUGNpTbx23wx-JxncCw6qDVNMGdIrboFwyYdLqLXIOM52vrJfUMJ01BXX3mHFgLRzEQILBOE8AktV0ZH28wyVKbGo6ADfIRkjWGJkURL07277_mYEquugl9I4Kt6I0U/s320/Blog+-+Crimson+White+Cookies.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thedomesticrebel.com/2014/12/10/the-best-soft-chewy-cranberry-white-chocolate-chip-cookies/">Crimson White Cookies</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
from The Domestic Rebel</div>
Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-20513619360021810292016-09-05T17:39:00.000-05:002016-09-05T17:39:03.149-05:00Pumpkin Season: Pumpkin Sugar Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqOMs5QiU74VuBKOJU3Uv0w5RsrzrGAxRtfmnE4giQx6pELLl94sOKEhdCR-xt_O9i33d8LLApbMyoYNkV-X-LFzfEm8ns_llgRW9u8H7hp1toLsQhrx-k4XAxvwyFZGHHlEiSBI6Esu4/s1600/Pumpkin+Spice+Cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqOMs5QiU74VuBKOJU3Uv0w5RsrzrGAxRtfmnE4giQx6pELLl94sOKEhdCR-xt_O9i33d8LLApbMyoYNkV-X-LFzfEm8ns_llgRW9u8H7hp1toLsQhrx-k4XAxvwyFZGHHlEiSBI6Esu4/s320/Pumpkin+Spice+Cookies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well, I gave myself until Labor Day to starting decorating for fall and bring out the pumpkins. I didn't bring out the witches and ghosts but there is a lot of fall color around the house now. With the start of fall (I know it's technically not fall and it's still 100 degrees), it's time for PUMPKIN!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back at Starbucks!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts are back at Krispy Kreme!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Couldn't wait for the cool weather (which I hope is coming soon) to make these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies! Just a basic sugar cookie with some pumpkin puree added....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pumpkin
Sugar Cookies</span></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 ½ cups sugar +more for rolling</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 ½ cups all- purpose flour</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">½ t. baking powder</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">½ t. salt</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">½ t. cinnamon</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">14 T. Butter (1 ¾ stick) – room temperature</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 t. vanilla extract</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 egg yolk</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> ½ C. pure pumpkin
puree</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder,
salt and cinnamon. Set aside. Mix together the butter and sugar until light and
fluffy.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla. Add pumpkin and mix
well. Gradually mix in the flour until well combined. Refrigerate the cookie
dough for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll dough into 1 inch
balls. Roll in sugar. Place on a parchment lined cookie sheet, spacing the
cookies about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes but watch closely and
don’t overbake. Let cool on pan for a couple of minutes before removing to a
cooling rack</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
For a printable version of this recipe click <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/z2b0vc4wety7ev3/Recipes%20-%20Pumpkin%20Sugar%20Cookies.docx?dl=0">Here</a>! Thanks to <a href="http://www.wineandglue.com/2015/09/pumpkin-sugar-cookies.html">Wine and Glue</a> for the great recipe!</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
Just checked my Pinterest "stats" - I have 109 pumpkin recipes pinned - Look for more to follow in Pumpkin Season! Maybe the weather will cooperate soon! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-84581045216002571982016-09-01T21:39:00.000-05:002016-09-01T21:39:47.881-05:00Friday Football Fare - Ham and Cheese Party Rolls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So college football season begins and that means fun, family, friends, festivities and food! Whether you are planning to watch the game in person or at home, you've got to have some great game day recipes. This one is all over Pinterest and I've had it printed for a while, just waiting for the season. The season is here and these Ham and Cheese Party Rolls are just as good as they look. The best part is how quick and easy they are - less than 30 minutes from start to finish!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhURvtXZD88ZLXn-CDm6Cy9yaG18sMuqX60doDcOuINV-2_P0Fu3fapOI6iMfFvd1Xj9d-lrMjvhBfGlfMb0HMdG3PGHsJYmfM3JP6CmNd6CYaDEWdSPnzFAVIO0_okQS_pjoJfb82eos/s1600/Blog+-+Ham+and+Cheese+Party+Rolls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhURvtXZD88ZLXn-CDm6Cy9yaG18sMuqX60doDcOuINV-2_P0Fu3fapOI6iMfFvd1Xj9d-lrMjvhBfGlfMb0HMdG3PGHsJYmfM3JP6CmNd6CYaDEWdSPnzFAVIO0_okQS_pjoJfb82eos/s320/Blog+-+Ham+and+Cheese+Party+Rolls.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kevin and Amanda sure know how to get the season started! Get the recipe <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/hot-ham-cheese-party-rolls/">Here</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Good luck to your teams this season! Comment and tell me who you are cheering for!</div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-14408369326354467042015-06-07T23:25:00.000-05:002015-06-07T23:25:11.352-05:00Market to Menu - Peach or Blueberry?<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/AVvXsEjmdrYXfv1UZHh23erCnVWbvDBywtiWlU1csZOlWSW4wzuiqxeX1cQ97AL17ENtonYol4-a-sXfeuKDl0t6JSnBmlF0BARHfbjYTVPM5wK87zG9JNMNfSttG6a30X9K31rHJ4NncGGeKkc/s1600/Phone+286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmdrYXfv1UZHh23erCnVWbvDBywtiWlU1csZOlWSW4wzuiqxeX1cQ97AL17ENtonYol4-a-sXfeuKDl0t6JSnBmlF0BARHfbjYTVPM5wK87zG9JNMNfSttG6a30X9K31rHJ4NncGGeKkc/s320/Phone+286.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuscaloosa River Market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I just love going to the farmer's market on Saturday mornings! From fruit to vegetables to meat to baked good to flowers - they have it all! My problem is that I want to buy something from everybody. First of all, they are all so nice but also I realize how hard they worked to give us a great product. How do I decide that one person's blueberries are better than another? Tough decisions! Yesterday's purchases included strawberries, blueberries, green peppers (so shiny that they didn't look real), and pecans. Oh, and piece of Emily's pound cake. I wonder why it didn't make the picture? Yummy!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Xf727hSspOZQDaIgOCOwU6cH70Lwq0ea3T4kHBmTH2_33a7F6iy7uTkpIgB84yCnOaYbs1CUtdGvInd1LoczTnSDBafP_l8oykFclyQbaYI7Zsk-VesiRc-p7p3bk6MWNftRgGCTshU/s1600/Phone+290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Xf727hSspOZQDaIgOCOwU6cH70Lwq0ea3T4kHBmTH2_33a7F6iy7uTkpIgB84yCnOaYbs1CUtdGvInd1LoczTnSDBafP_l8oykFclyQbaYI7Zsk-VesiRc-p7p3bk6MWNftRgGCTshU/s320/Phone+290.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the gladiolus - buy these from he same sweet lady every year. She reminds me of my grandmother and she always throws in an extra. I got the blueberries and strawberries for making breakfast for my Sunday School class. And the pecans - well, I didn't need them but I couldn't resist. The sweet older man reminded me of my Papa. My Papa used to pick up pecans, shell them and give them to me in bread bags because I liked to bake. My Daddy also cracked and shelled many bazillion pecans for me (and everybody else in town - he was the "pecan man"). Sweet memories! I asked the man if he shelled them himself - he said, "every single one". How could I not buy them? Oh, well, I will use them!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, I didn't end up using the strawberries for my breakfast. I also had some peaches that I got at "Back Forty" in Demopolis this week so I made these two recipes. They were a big hit so thought I would share the recipes directly from these blogs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sallysbakingaddiction.com/2014/07/06/peach-streusel-muffins/">Peach Streusel Muffins from Sally's Baking Addition</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2013/02/blueberry-croissant-puff.html">Blueberry Croissant Puff from The Girl Who Ate Everything</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, blueberry or peach? Which is your favorite?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-18093087284811758962015-02-17T23:27:00.000-06:002015-02-17T23:27:17.345-06:00Let Me Tell You About Miss Beth<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/AVvXsEhvyGGMC41ydd_uKVGYFgTneshgeI_ib3yh2ych3ESaL5OI2FRDo7xL4GKIdKleuPanhRQ0-8YUFvf5I-UBka7n_nDlTWJ0in5dJEMTeFv-p6Qy8twUUxz4DRr419jpmmFuPHj_448LIVs/s1600/Special+Olympics+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvyGGMC41ydd_uKVGYFgTneshgeI_ib3yh2ych3ESaL5OI2FRDo7xL4GKIdKleuPanhRQ0-8YUFvf5I-UBka7n_nDlTWJ0in5dJEMTeFv-p6Qy8twUUxz4DRr419jpmmFuPHj_448LIVs/s1600/Special+Olympics+017.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beth, Debbie and Annie at Annie's first Special Olympics in April 2012<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Some time during my first few years in Tuscaloosa (mid 80s), I was blessed to meet the most precious little girl. Her name was Beth. Her Mom was a teacher at Oak Hill School where my roommate taught and where I provided Occupational Therapy services through a contract with DCH. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is where a friendship began with this sweet family! Some time back, Beth's Mom, Debbie, reminded me of the time that I took care of Beth when her Dad was injured very badly in a mining accident. Wow! Isn't it amazing how God puts people in your life when he knows it's just what you need. Now I am not talking about him putting me in their life to be able to take care of Beth. He put Beth and her parents in my life to show me how to take care of my Annie! I could not have known at the time the significance of that day for me, but I do now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You see, Annie and Beth have some similarities - the most notable in how they communicate with you without the use of words. Sometimes, it's just their smile that says it all! If the everyone could be as happy and content as these sweet girls, the world would be a better place!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To know Beth is to love her! You never see her without a smile...She enjoys life - love seeing her riding around the neighborhood on the golf cart....She has more friends than you can count....She loves her Crimson Tide.....She loves her fur babies.....She has an accomplished "career" as a Special Olympian (probably has more medals than you can count as well)......She is just simply one of the sweetest people you will ever meet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEjVXE0Uc5Gnn6L0r0sAfXDmD0uTjjSL_Hd9wGjR-KFdFs9PCCu6Ud9vdOndq9hVgLib7Yb2DmlgIxQZCOqAepO2UOSLMuOzLfwtc4eMhG2WRDXYVbyhwBmMN7NJLSExCOdE1ej74AomsyM/s1600/TWTS+2014+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXE0Uc5Gnn6L0r0sAfXDmD0uTjjSL_Hd9wGjR-KFdFs9PCCu6Ud9vdOndq9hVgLib7Yb2DmlgIxQZCOqAepO2UOSLMuOzLfwtc4eMhG2WRDXYVbyhwBmMN7NJLSExCOdE1ej74AomsyM/s1600/TWTS+2014+026.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful ladies - Miss Tuscaloosa, Caitlin Crowe, and Miss Beth at Sprayberry's "Tailgating with the Stars" 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Let me ask you to pray for Miss Beth who, some time ago, was diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor. It was determined that Beth was not a candidate for surgery. Most recently, Beth's parents were told that the tumor is fast growing and she is now receiving hospice care to help control the pain. Please pray specifically for decreased headaches and seizures and most of all for a miracle for this sweet girl!</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As a parent of a child with special needs, I always wonder if we are doing all we can do, if we are doing things right, what we would do when faced with certain situations - just so many questions! I only have to look down the street to see the BEST example of parenting a child with special needs! John and Debbie love Beth unconditionally, give her every opportunity available, provide her the best care, and they LIVE their life (the Anderson's have fun!) while displaying a very strong faith in Christ!</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks, Miss Beth, for showing me how take care of my Annie! Thanks, Debbie and John for showing me how to be Annie's Mom! Thanks to God for placing this family in my life way back when - before I even knew why!</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEjgXOCRgyFsrsKH4WkL1NRpilpSoBnovhK2UgC4bJehR4r3hY-UYsCgvzxXIL81hwjNHKTod8yv3b9smP3r_T7G6UxJy6-VyO_vD0Tfl-ZAldkN8zx7qDsl2iKDg6lZjbd-DeQCQ1Fa8Mk/s1600/Andersons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXOCRgyFsrsKH4WkL1NRpilpSoBnovhK2UgC4bJehR4r3hY-UYsCgvzxXIL81hwjNHKTod8yv3b9smP3r_T7G6UxJy6-VyO_vD0Tfl-ZAldkN8zx7qDsl2iKDg6lZjbd-DeQCQ1Fa8Mk/s1600/Andersons.jpg" height="400" width="370" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John, Beth and Debbie Anderson</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
John 14:27 <em>“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”</em></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Follow "Prayers for Miss Beth" on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/prayersforourangel">Facebook</a></div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-28951386647800085302015-01-24T15:41:00.000-06:002015-01-24T15:41:22.293-06:00Pinterest Printables Project - Winter Survival Kit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgVTvVusUt3n1w8k2dBDuLNZa1BI0mnKN2MZDekd4lMWz-_aOReUAheCjqY7PQbE-Nhbm_H1sVMWwAj6QkNsi4v5HCg6GVnyh8DhwV2iZTHmzR7R6dgxU_mPD_j79kBLpV3FtpaKEZMk4/s1600/IPhone+6+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgVTvVusUt3n1w8k2dBDuLNZa1BI0mnKN2MZDekd4lMWz-_aOReUAheCjqY7PQbE-Nhbm_H1sVMWwAj6QkNsi4v5HCg6GVnyh8DhwV2iZTHmzR7R6dgxU_mPD_j79kBLpV3FtpaKEZMk4/s1600/IPhone+6+009.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love Pinterest! I knew I had pinned quite a few ideas - recipes, gift ideas, cute fonts, inspirational messages and so much more but had never given thought to how many ideas I had pinned until today - over 4000! That's crazy, I know, but the good thing is that I always know where to find them. And there are some that I have actually done!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Loved this cute gift idea from <a href="http://corissanelsonart.com/corissa-nelson-art/2013/12/14/winter-survival-kit-tags-free-printable"> Corissa Nelson Art</a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9-xZXmZ3CQS7-2VaCXL5F07IjiChSf3qxp8JwvzbTnOm0bnbaWYH2qjY79i4rZR8jgNOSyxUVnl0URNWmf9J8kugS92X3zrHHe-kllK2-ZmUP8hvLKH4oI5o8iKNO3uVFk8yiBsGQI0/s1600/IPhone+6+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9-xZXmZ3CQS7-2VaCXL5F07IjiChSf3qxp8JwvzbTnOm0bnbaWYH2qjY79i4rZR8jgNOSyxUVnl0URNWmf9J8kugS92X3zrHHe-kllK2-ZmUP8hvLKH4oI5o8iKNO3uVFk8yiBsGQI0/s1600/IPhone+6+007.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had some mason jars left over from a Elle's that I filled with these things: Curel moisturizer, lip balms, colorful tissues, cute emory boards (found at Pier I) and some peppermints. I used some scrap fabrics for the topper and some twine to tie the tags! Just a fun little "happy" to share with a friend!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I like being creative but creativity is really made easy when you find something cute like this that has already been created for you. Pinterest has LOTS of printables - gift tags, organizers, planners, labels, décor, etc. to make it easier for you! Check out my Pinterest board for <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/missy3/printables/">"Printables"</a> to find something you can use!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-25890147577806745362015-01-10T16:06:00.001-06:002015-01-10T16:06:40.875-06:00Blessed Beyond Measure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv0_gQdz5Zssc8I0hO7LeUMS8WJs9D_667UWfp6lFLZyGmPdLNwdV4dKKwWPCBorwEhHm3nkX5Ff69YHqv3QTVn1PRhnNI7AvHDFd2QqqUNLxTWxnxn42uSSjVyXq2Ni28SS-hAopK5F4/s1600/Blessed+Beyond+Measure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv0_gQdz5Zssc8I0hO7LeUMS8WJs9D_667UWfp6lFLZyGmPdLNwdV4dKKwWPCBorwEhHm3nkX5Ff69YHqv3QTVn1PRhnNI7AvHDFd2QqqUNLxTWxnxn42uSSjVyXq2Ni28SS-hAopK5F4/s1600/Blessed+Beyond+Measure.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Let the celebration begin! TEN years ago today, I had either just completed or was very soon to start my bone marrow transplant for the treatment of multiple myeloma, cancer of the bone marrow. I can't remember the exact time but I remember that a small bag of frozen stem cells were brought into my room, thawed and hung like an IV and, in approximately 45 minutes, it was empty and transplant done!! While there was a sense of relief, it was quite an uneventful day! Of course, the worst was yet to come. The details that followed are not important. What IS important is the love and support of people who were with us (and I do mean us!) through this most difficult time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have been asked repeatedly, "how did you do it?" My reply, "how could I not do it?" First of all I had a strong FAITH, the most supportive FAMILY and the best FRIENDS in the world! There is no way in the world to have made it to this milestone without these 3 things!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First of all, thanks be to the Lord for his grace and mercy - for giving me the chance to continue living my life. I held tightly to Jeremiah 29:11, shared with me by my sweet friend, Gina Paulette. One of the first things that Dr. Foran, at UAB told me was "Live your Life". I had just been told I had cancer and their was no cure - these were very encouraging words!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXeqN83S9TpXoJFkkshcBHSYHX62pberqLZkyzMpiQ6xexSgYCDJ-txO_e8VXgl_09_Wi4jJarTy6o3wfYQc1IH1xYqUFbbqnLr9ihAs0T2GgNf1h0zIKRiJmXCLpkTMsVZERtC8QmhU/s1600/Jeremiah+29-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXeqN83S9TpXoJFkkshcBHSYHX62pberqLZkyzMpiQ6xexSgYCDJ-txO_e8VXgl_09_Wi4jJarTy6o3wfYQc1IH1xYqUFbbqnLr9ihAs0T2GgNf1h0zIKRiJmXCLpkTMsVZERtC8QmhU/s1600/Jeremiah+29-11.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my husband, Barry, thanks for being my rock! Thanks for being there for me every day that I was a UAB - while managing to work as well - and for being there for the girls at night! AND thanks for every word of encouragement before and since. It is the little things that get to him - but on this big thing, he never wavered! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my daughters, Elle and Annie, thanks for going with the flow! You have no idea how much you inspired me every day. I loved those sweet words from Elle on the phone and hearing Annie's sweet laugh. This Mama had to get well to watch these two beautiful, sweet girls grow up! The sweet Care Bear that Elle gave me when I went to the hospital still sits on my nightstand and I am reminded daily of the sweet encouragement of a 2 year old and how much that impacted my recovery!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my parents, Robert and Nell McLendon.... there are no words to describe the impact they made on this recovery. For 7 weeks straight, my sweet Mama stayed at my house - cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, taking care of the girls and so much more! During this time, we lost my dear Uncle Clinton but my Mama stayed in Tuscaloosa for me. My Daddy was back and forth, taking care of home and helping us out in Tuscaloosa. If there is one thing that I learned from my Daddy, it's dealing with what life gives you and doing it to the best of your ability. My Daddy's legacy will always be a part of my life. Oh, how I miss him saying that "everything will be alright."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my Allen family......thanks to my mother and father in law, Keith and Sue Allen, Barry's aunt, Deborah Turner, Barry's sister, Suzanne Camp, and her family - thanks for always being wherever needed. Your love and support means more to me than you will every know.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To our Sunday School Class at Circlewood Baptist Church and our church family at Circlewood....Wow! I couldn't begin to list the things you all did for us. Just know that every quarter for the parking garage, every meal, every prayer, every Christmas carol, every EVERYTHING will always be near to our heart! What a most encouraging "Circle of Friends"!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To our precious friends, Jane and Jerry Eure, who are like another set of parents to us......thank YOU for everything you did. We could always count on you!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my Class of 1978 of Pike Liberal Arts.... the medical spending account you all created was always there when we needed it most! How amazing, after 26 years, you all came together to support my family in this way. If that's not encouragement, what is? There is a lot to be said for a small school with a graduating class of 36. Wouldn't trade it for anything in the world! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my fellow DCH Employees.......Administration, Therapy Departments, Organizational Development and Education and others - the food, the cards, the flowers, the prayers, the PTO (PAID TIME OFF) and more will never be forgotten! Yes, friends at DCH shared enough of their personal leave for me to get paid for nearly 4 months when I had no PTO left. Absolutely amazing! I begged Human Resources to tell me who donated so that I could write thank you notes but they would not! SO...if you are reading this, please KNOW how very much I love you for doing this for me and helping to save my family from financial crisis! DCH will always have a special place in my heart and this is one big reason! A wealth of encouragement came from DCH!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my Alpha Gamma Delta alumnae sisters..... the collegiate sorority experience is awesome but it is nothing compared to the love and support that I received from our local Tuscaloosa alumnae group. I will never forget coming home one day and our sitter saying to me "Girl, we almost didn't get all that stuff in your freezer" to which I replied "what stuff?" My Alpha Gam sisters had packed my deep freezer FULL of meals that we could just take out and heat! This is not all they did for us and I could never thank them enough. More encouragement!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my childhood friends and the best friends anyone could ever ask for.....I will never forget seeing the faces of my dear friends, Pam Lawson Thompson and Tami Caldwell Meeks in my hospital room not long after I received that dreaded diagnosis. They continue to inspire and encourage me to this day. To the entire Lawson family, whom I have written about before.... there are no better friends!! Your love and encouragement meant the world to me! To Hank and Maria Strother, thank you for your support from the bottom of my heart!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my precious friend, Kim Marsh.....Kim organized meals to be delivered to my home every other night for 3-4 months. She organized house cleaning, monetary donations, and a fabulous welcome home celebration as well. All because she cared! Most importantly, she was a communication line for prayer requests and updates. We didn't really do Facebook, Caring Bridge, Take Them a Meal that we all use now. She did it the good old fashioned way - phone calls - all while taking care of her own family and her physical therapy private practice. What an amazing, encouraging friend!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To my college friend, Phyllis McCaleb Brasfield...... the love and encouragement of you and your family was amazing. Thanks for taking me to lunch, sewing classes and helping me to "live my life"!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To every person that prepared a meal, sent a gift card.....you can never understand how much that support means until you have experienced it. It was so helpful to not have to worry about meals. I wish I could name each and every one of you but I would for sure miss someone. Please know that everything was much appreciated and encouraged our family!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To the MANY prayer warriors...... I lived for the mail to come every day... every single card, prayer gram, prayer list, gift, pink basket, CD, cute hat, etc. that was sent to me meant something - every word encouraged me!! I still have every card! I can't say enough about your love and support!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To the medical staff who diagnosed my cancer and took care of me through this process..... All I can say is "So thankful for you!" When Dr. David Hinton gave me my diagnosis in December of 2003, I told him he must be in the wrong room - that I had a 2 year old and a 7 month old with a trach at home and it couldn't be me. He said to me, "There is so much hope in your situation with all that is going on in multiple myeloma research right now". I took that as encouragement and thus the journey began. I can't begin to describe how thankful I am for Dr. Hinton and the incredibly caring staff of the DCH Cancer Center (now the Manderson Cancer Center) and for the UAB Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, especially Dr. James Foran, Dr. Donna Salzman and Dr. William Vaughn who provide outstanding medical care which led to a successful transplant.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you have made it this far (there was no way to make this short!), I hope that you have seen just how much people living with cancer NEED your love and support. When I say "I couldn't have done it without you" I mean it! Whether you were mentioned by name in this blog or not, if you did anything - say a prayer, donate money, send a card, provide food, send a gift, encourage me or anyone in my family or anything else - know that you were a key to my success. Again, I am thankful to the Lord God Almighty for giving me new life on this day in 2005 and to you ALL for being the hands and feet of Christ! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am Blessed Beyond Measure!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Love and Blessings to you ALL!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Carla</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In Remembrance...... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
On the day that I was diagnosed, our family met a sweet new friend, Debra Lightsey. Debra had previously had a bone marrow transplant and she was my "guiding light" - Her words of encouragement to Barry and to me were a huge inspiration to us in the early days of my journey. Unfortunately, Debra's course required a second transplant and she was later called home to be with the Lord. What a life well lived! Loved this sweet lady!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Some years after my transplant, I found out that one of my childhood friends and fellow P.L.A.S. classmates, Jim Drinkard, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. No one has ever fought a braver fight with such a disease and inspired so many people in the process! After a three year battle and multiple transplants, Jim was also called home to be with the Lord as well. I had no words to explain this! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
There are others that I have met who encouraged me and whom I have encouraged that have not survived this disease. I can't describe the feeling that I have in knowing that I survived when others did not. While my heart is exploding with JOY on this 10th year, it still hurts for these precious families! Blessings to the families of these dear friends!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-12052730557873890562015-01-01T07:00:00.000-06:002015-01-01T07:00:03.119-06:00Growing Spiritually in 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXufpVPK_BNMNHuScPqRY0zcg-BNoDgV73rqFD2hA5lJ9uryPBYGGI6kwx_kO4RQssbHaO-E4vtWE9UNhl0yydyrKf1hb3xbHAmh6a_4KBK4KBKGF-A1InSLs3NQJtOmGyt8gbMBantU/s1600/Brunch+for+Honduras+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXufpVPK_BNMNHuScPqRY0zcg-BNoDgV73rqFD2hA5lJ9uryPBYGGI6kwx_kO4RQssbHaO-E4vtWE9UNhl0yydyrKf1hb3xbHAmh6a_4KBK4KBKGF-A1InSLs3NQJtOmGyt8gbMBantU/s1600/Brunch+for+Honduras+001.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I was a child, I remember watching a television show or movie about the "future" - it was set in 2000 and that seemed SO far away.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now it's 2015! Unbelievable! Thankful! Exciting! New Beginnings!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sometime last year, I ran across this article in the Tuscaloosa News and I clipped it for 2014 - as an inspiration for the new year ahead! Reading it now, I think I need to try again!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Great advice provided by Bryan Nash, minister at King Street Church of Christ in Beaufort, S.C.:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not only should you read from the Holy Bible daily, you should be part of a Bible study for enrichment. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You should learn how to communicate with God, knowing what to ask for and the process by which this should be done. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Taking time for worship - singing, praying and learning from God's word can set the pace for a well lived life. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spend time in quiet meditation to help set the course for the day. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spend time with others whose faith you share. This brings out goodness and love for each other. You should get strength and encouragement for living a good life. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Perform acts of kindness towards others. The willingness to help in situations of need shows the beauty of love for others. </div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>Columnist Ervena Faulkner - The Island Packet - Hilton Head, S.C.</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em></em> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
May this be your best year ever! Blessings to all in 2015!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-11232010660759053932014-12-28T13:44:00.000-06:002014-12-28T13:44:17.175-06:00Where was Instagram?<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/AVvXsEhwAvEnvhXni54e8lRh-IspuCailm8IVKraJ2VRgxJWpamZH0MMem8rR2j3jG2mf3AxeosM0NEwLRruTjE5l8Ic8B8BLnuZsj_-UTXxb3bJPPSWRhMGljbeQrUrJghiw5Dz4Q1mLbHbBr8/s1600/PHONE+261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwAvEnvhXni54e8lRh-IspuCailm8IVKraJ2VRgxJWpamZH0MMem8rR2j3jG2mf3AxeosM0NEwLRruTjE5l8Ic8B8BLnuZsj_-UTXxb3bJPPSWRhMGljbeQrUrJghiw5Dz4Q1mLbHbBr8/s1600/PHONE+261.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Memory of<br />
Willie Mae Pritchett Lawson<br />
March 25, 1937 - November 19, 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When this precious lady and dear friend passed away in November, my heart was flooded with sweet memories of growing up as her neighbor in Brundidge. The Lawson's lived two doors up the street from my us. She often recalled the time we first met when Pam said, "Mama, that little red haired girl is coming over here". She will always be "Miss Willie Mae" to me - though she went by Mae or "Mae Mae" later in her life. I wanted so badly to find photos that captured the spirit of this sweet lady and our awesome neighborhood but the truth is that we made relatively few pictures back then. Not to spark a debate over the use of social media, I'm just saying that one thing right about it is the documentation of precious memories. My teenage daughter documents everything in photos and she can always go back to those moments through pictures.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If we had Instagram "back then", I am sure there would have been photos of the countless trips to the "store" (Piggly Wiggly, Dime Store, Dykes Drugs, etc.) that "Miss Willie Mae" took us on! I am sure there would be pics of our "toys" or "coke floats" or whatever she got for us - in the same way Elle takes photos on every trip to Starbucks. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If we had Instagram "back then", I am sure we would have countless pics of the many spend the night parties at the Lawson home. Their home was like my second home - always very welcoming.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If we had Instagram "back then", we would have no doubt made pictures when sweet Pennie was born of Pam and I getting to hold her. "Miss Willie Mae" told us we could hold her when she woke up. Not sure if we ever told her that we shook the bassinet a little to get her to wake up! She was true to her word and let us hold her.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If we had Instagram "back then", we would have had pics from the "6th Grade Graduation Swim Party" that my parents, the Lawsons and hosted for us at the Country Club. It even made the newspaper - The Brundidge Banner! Everything made the Brundidge Banner!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If we had Instagram "back then", I'm sure their would be photos from the many trips to P.L.A.S. to football games, band camp, 21 Club, play practice, etc. - you know, the kind everybody takes now driving in the car.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If we had Instagram "back then", I am sure that Greg, Rita and I would have taken a photo of the pot of peas we cooked with "Miss Willie Mae's" help. She was the "stay at home Mom" in the neighborhood and we would go to her for everything when our Moms were at work. One time, Rue (Greg and Rita's Mom) had asked the housekeeper to cook a pot of peas to have ready when she got home from work. The housekeeper didn't show so we took it on ourselves to call "Miss Willie Mae" for help. They turned out great! She was always just a phone call away.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If we had Instagram and I Phones "back then", my phone would surely have run out of memory! We had some good times in our little neighborhood and, for me, so many of them involved the Lawson girls, who were really like sisters to me. You could always count on my Mother and "Miss Willie Mae" to confer and see that our "stories" were straight! She was always kind, encouraging, warm, loving, giving, an example for all to follow!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
At her funeral, her grandson Hunter recalled that their were 3 things he learned from her 1) Family first, 2) Keep traditions and 3)A pack of Lance Crackers and a Coke were always good for a meal! He talked about her strong faith - that was no surprise because of the way she lived her life.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The pastor told a story about a time when she was at an arts festival that little boy was going from person to person, asking for money. Not until he asked "Miss Willie Mae" did anyone give him money. When they were leaving she saw him buying food. As the pastor related the story, he said that her philosophy was always that she would rather know that someone took advantage of her than to know that someone needed her help and she didn't help them. Yes, that's the precious lady I knew!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As we grew up and lived in different towns, I have always felt as close to this family as I ever was. Time did not change our relationship at all. I am so glad that this little red haired girl walked through "the weeds" (that's what we called the empty lot between our houses that was there when we first met) to play with the Lawson girls. We didn't see each other that often, but just like when we were growing up, I always knew she was there! We will miss her terribly and my heart goes out to Pam, Patti, Pennie and all of her wonderful family. I know that she has a special place in heaven right there with Mr. Charlie. See <a href="https://tisablessingtobe.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=UJ8blEoBAAA.moqm7koIPmoVUjsP2RcdhA.ZVNSxr8A1lcK8PfWwTDIYA&postId=7375358938605601730&type=POST">Pop's Legacy</a> .These two left a special legacy that will be lived out in the lives of their precious daughters. To know this family is to love them and I love them very much!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-87689231052694672212014-06-10T22:13:00.000-05:002014-06-10T23:03:27.692-05:00Top Ten Things To Know About a Child with Special Needs<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/AVvXsEghQq1DfmlUuna4fS1xSsEDSmMEWOhVhUGE84h9iVcVNt7w5Cv4MFBJIiRVWWSNQFcDT-H9_BStwhq1TijagCwoTqXKSIlOxqFchBqE0MvmrTpEb5JPwuPWSENOazfrEZR27R02MpcPqCY/s1600/Annie+Birthday+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQq1DfmlUuna4fS1xSsEDSmMEWOhVhUGE84h9iVcVNt7w5Cv4MFBJIiRVWWSNQFcDT-H9_BStwhq1TijagCwoTqXKSIlOxqFchBqE0MvmrTpEb5JPwuPWSENOazfrEZR27R02MpcPqCY/s1600/Annie+Birthday+Collage.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">11 years with Annie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today, I had the opportunity to speak to Early Intervention parents and professionals about "Having That First Conversation with Families" - families of children with special needs. Having been on both sides of the fence - a parent and a professional - I offered my perspective. In preparation for my presentation, I read about a training for a disability ministry in which the ministerial student approached the presenter and here is what he said, "I feel better prepared to talk to parents of children whose child has died than to talk to parents of a child with a disability. I simply have no idea how to have that first conversation." Wow! What a statement!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have used this "Top Ten" list for several presentations to different groups so I thought I would share it here in hopes that it will give you the parent perspective of having a child with special needs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEhK3Pb1-hjrjmUmv0thvmMaiYKmx8L3_kdIpFn1rjhFPnbCQfLUP5TC9lH4RMIhiPglCxyC3YWJ61PuH8tmN29p_zxZx-diPkes4zfN7OAI5bzqdQdQIdKBtoHGS8WXDamEj1SVCf23MB4/s1600/Scan0044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3Pb1-hjrjmUmv0thvmMaiYKmx8L3_kdIpFn1rjhFPnbCQfLUP5TC9lH4RMIhiPglCxyC3YWJ61PuH8tmN29p_zxZx-diPkes4zfN7OAI5bzqdQdQIdKBtoHGS8WXDamEj1SVCf23MB4/s1600/Scan0044.jpg" height="245" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Name on her bed at Children's Hospital of Alabama<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1) A child with special needs has a name!..... Our daughter is officially Ann Olivia but to us she is "Annie". I shared the story in which Heather, our first NICU nurse at Children's Hospital, made this name tag for her bedside. I was so touched that it read "Annie" and not Ann or Ann Olivia or Baby Allen. It was a very personal approach to her care that we remember to this day! It means so much to us when people take the time to know her as "Annie" and not just the official name on her files.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5RAPrSEg8YsEPmzR5EcEOehIPBrCqof6LqNzpq9ErA85qyHxv57Hk-ym-4N5fs_wwDzPknd45JyRA2CCBY7XJSstLbz2bZCVp3VxvH5c5CLW-k7KNCqF9mjaNuRc7XeKyH0enFRfHYEk/s1600/Art+Show+2011+060.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/AVvXsEh5RAPrSEg8YsEPmzR5EcEOehIPBrCqof6LqNzpq9ErA85qyHxv57Hk-ym-4N5fs_wwDzPknd45JyRA2CCBY7XJSstLbz2bZCVp3VxvH5c5CLW-k7KNCqF9mjaNuRc7XeKyH0enFRfHYEk/s1600/Art+Show+2011+060.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our tired artist at the Sprayberry Art Show</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2) A child with special needs is busy!....Annie is not as "busy" as she used to be, thankfully! I am referring to the many doctor visits, therapy visits, case managers, early interventionists and more. It can be quite overwhelming at times.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEh1EHhJvhYEGOGO77HasAEf-Yl1Jjq0ILrrbP5mOsg9-GJg7koIjy3BdPMc6Z2N2-mMI1XG-IAJpu6Q2AziEBJUonqlQBWLJfNCDykWRvH-BX93Y0Dc2O9syvqCLgHW-TXhQbd-Zkjz0j4/s1600/Easter+034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1EHhJvhYEGOGO77HasAEf-Yl1Jjq0ILrrbP5mOsg9-GJg7koIjy3BdPMc6Z2N2-mMI1XG-IAJpu6Q2AziEBJUonqlQBWLJfNCDykWRvH-BX93Y0Dc2O9syvqCLgHW-TXhQbd-Zkjz0j4/s1600/Easter+034.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter 2013</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3) A child with special needs has a family with special needs!....I read the blogs of some parents of children with special needs and the found the following things to be pretty common in all of them - parents may be tired, scared, jealous, lonely/left out, stressed out, needing a break! We experience highs and lows. We are sometimes good at hiding things and sometimes not. We are stronger than you think and not as strong as you think. Of course, we don't experience all of these things all the time. The same goes for the rest of the family as well - like siblings. At the same time, we all experience joy!</div>
<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/AVvXsEg5xBcZIB2Uqtl7qRgUD-L1BOSHJXX_4VXPtGK8lCjWyHq19kYDznvAIpR7al8Zs-VPBEOvX7gTitIPRNP-haYKRTuvwN_nULCEdE__33PiMVir1n45EkzbWQoukhztrSlnicbt7hVfPo8/s1600/101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5xBcZIB2Uqtl7qRgUD-L1BOSHJXX_4VXPtGK8lCjWyHq19kYDznvAIpR7al8Zs-VPBEOvX7gTitIPRNP-haYKRTuvwN_nULCEdE__33PiMVir1n45EkzbWQoukhztrSlnicbt7hVfPo8/s1600/101.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favorites of these sweet sisters!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4) A child with special needs also needs attention - just like other children.... It warms our hearts for people to talk to Annie, even though she can't talk back. At the same time, it is important that the child with special needs doesn't get all the attention. Elle is equally as important in our family!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5) A child with special needs is expensive....financial needs can be a "special need" all it's own. Thankfully, there are resources available to assist families in this area.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEjNmYxS80EqWaVGHJqKQDI6tnq0eyB0xeBsY3mow4AHXEDwyFun6RbFCtel0y_QYiKIQTlndi3Xn64JrkZcmJ-Vuqk6ZV5Msx7RPs8ob2Y3Ypn7BWYr0v5kUfk5QuS2uCYGTXK21_yWZxY/s1600/Summer+2009+219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNmYxS80EqWaVGHJqKQDI6tnq0eyB0xeBsY3mow4AHXEDwyFun6RbFCtel0y_QYiKIQTlndi3Xn64JrkZcmJ-Vuqk6ZV5Msx7RPs8ob2Y3Ypn7BWYr0v5kUfk5QuS2uCYGTXK21_yWZxY/s1600/Summer+2009+219.JPG" height="200" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Papa and Granny</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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/AVvXsEhI61QQZ2FYBrRAHi7XsFy9zwSTAvIo7ahf5OCwspp7ouIQ-nsYp1CI8DxkBeTV_tJ4Sujet4Ja_LanL7OWhIbPSfsoeLgnoyHB_Krx5scy3JbmDFBGURa1d2PDuNwjBHxMlRC9zD8kisA/s1600/Beach+106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI61QQZ2FYBrRAHi7XsFy9zwSTAvIo7ahf5OCwspp7ouIQ-nsYp1CI8DxkBeTV_tJ4Sujet4Ja_LanL7OWhIbPSfsoeLgnoyHB_Krx5scy3JbmDFBGURa1d2PDuNwjBHxMlRC9zD8kisA/s1600/Beach+106.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nannie, Granddaddy, Madeline and Margaret</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6) A child with special needs has resources.....in Early Intervention, listing a families resources is an important part of the Individual Family Service Plan. We have been fortunate to have great resources for Annie.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7) A child with special needs is a challenge..... what child isn't? I recently read about a conversation between a dad and daughter. The daughter was about to have her first child - she said to her Dad, "Dad, I think we're ready" to which he replied "No, you're not". Is anybody ever really ready? We take one day at a time, always learning along the way.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEgp-U9NQwLOqa7WI16AMeh50tcgdzgcB8H5i_Wg7lkFZqX4bND8ZsIOhv0GWzZBn47iAxinbODLsIRHnm_ES3AnSgSw-JaBejH_I5LiKqJNWCiw1WQsC162AoIzisVu7EMsTyWvjCVQ2KY/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp-U9NQwLOqa7WI16AMeh50tcgdzgcB8H5i_Wg7lkFZqX4bND8ZsIOhv0GWzZBn47iAxinbODLsIRHnm_ES3AnSgSw-JaBejH_I5LiKqJNWCiw1WQsC162AoIzisVu7EMsTyWvjCVQ2KY/s1600/009.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friends and Family at Annie's 5th Birthday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8) A child with special needs takes a village..... Is it more than WE can handle? Sure, it is! That's why our "village" is so important. We handle it, first of all, because we have a great faith! God has placed some pretty special people in our life - grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins, teachers, para educators, doctors, nurses, principals, therapists, early intervention staff, friends, church members and more! So thankful for EVERYONE who has played a part in Annie's life movie so far!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEgsR6oaOdQWZFKMlL7uoEYFDXMS-vUS7-DO3xB-ylRkuxRg76TKX2xTJ9mK7ca1gfINtXJUp7ry2SUYKooxgZ48LBrYyn9oitAy_t49s5tfQZEba8HiEZRTgQCQMrMrp3UOrzhgQFcDHGE/s1600/Sprayberry+Baseball+at+the+Joe+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsR6oaOdQWZFKMlL7uoEYFDXMS-vUS7-DO3xB-ylRkuxRg76TKX2xTJ9mK7ca1gfINtXJUp7ry2SUYKooxgZ48LBrYyn9oitAy_t49s5tfQZEba8HiEZRTgQCQMrMrp3UOrzhgQFcDHGE/s1600/Sprayberry+Baseball+at+the+Joe+021.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sprayberry Night at Alabama Baseball 2013</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
9) A child with special needs can be happy.....if only the rest of the world would take a cue from Annie or my precious cousin, Wendell, who has cerebral palsy! Two of the happiest people I know!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<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/AVvXsEiW0aR8FCnoOiJDtmW1_O-6zR0rpxQpp87QXYV7RnOBsKY8ucTfLAqbsraolhg1rVpnEzQYLE7dhZkVyqIT24zZlkxE8Li9qYvY9cLwtuTUf_pUY8XPElDTH7MuqW1tZNCiEC_oLnmlgwU/s1600/Annie+-+NICU+Reunion.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0aR8FCnoOiJDtmW1_O-6zR0rpxQpp87QXYV7RnOBsKY8ucTfLAqbsraolhg1rVpnEzQYLE7dhZkVyqIT24zZlkxE8Li9qYvY9cLwtuTUf_pUY8XPElDTH7MuqW1tZNCiEC_oLnmlgwU/s1600/Annie+-+NICU+Reunion.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a stroll at Sprayberry!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
10) A child with special needs is a <strong>blessing</strong>....we just can't imagine Annie any other way. Do we wish she could walk and talk like other children? Of course, we do! But we love her for who she is - she's feisty, determined, funny, strong, and very active. We are so proud of all that she has accomplished and so thankful to everyone on her team!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-40929489960830143182014-06-09T17:00:00.000-05:002014-06-09T17:00:01.402-05:00Best Chicken Salad EVER<span class="userContent"><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_5394e59fa3d360e17613182">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIdjwpaLIWiQKrJNCUrYRfde_Tva0w3VmaSo6xIhIdIg_HIJwEZgZaDLpOfWZav3fboNt2jLqV-Or5AbLP5v8_WOsR7ZnTYJKzVQpMrEAICq7l5PAR9m2Cfk2JDLMdDlpTrtLtgdKK0o/s1600/Chicken+Salad+-+Kay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIdjwpaLIWiQKrJNCUrYRfde_Tva0w3VmaSo6xIhIdIg_HIJwEZgZaDLpOfWZav3fboNt2jLqV-Or5AbLP5v8_WOsR7ZnTYJKzVQpMrEAICq7l5PAR9m2Cfk2JDLMdDlpTrtLtgdKK0o/s1600/Chicken+Salad+-+Kay.jpg" height="233" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When my friend, Kay Fields, posted this recipe on her Facebook page, I couldn't wait to try it! In fact, I didn't - not yet anyway - I know it's good!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Best chicken salad EVER is how she describes it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;">
Here is the recipe for Kay's Chicken Salad in her words: 1) I boil ONLY white large chicken breasts and using scissors trim off all fat and gristle, if any, and boil slowly so all that AWESOME FLAVOR gets in, for several hours (Yes, I Do This). 2) after chicken just fa<span class="text_exposed_show">lls apart, set aside to cool a bit, 3) Drain liquid off and use hands to toss and the chicken just shreds up so nicely, 4)Add all these ingredients as much or little as I want to (I never measure): Kraft Mayo, Pecans (I cut them up myself - don't like them chopped), Green or Purple Seedless Grapes (I slice in half), Dill Pickle Chips (I cut these up as I see fit as well) and then 5) I pour some of the dill pickle juice over mixture to moisten if it's a little dry. I may or may not add more Mayo. That's it and I serve anyway I want - on regular bread, white or wheat, croissants, alone or with assorted crackers! YUMMY!!!!!! Then we eat it all up! If I ever have left overs - of course, cover and put back in fridge. Next day, I usually add either Mayo or pickle juice again because it may be a little bit dry. That's all!</span></div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span> </div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text_exposed_show"><a href="https://www.mediafire.com/?ng71aezoln0csuo">Printable Version</a></span></div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span> </div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text_exposed_show">Thanks, Kay, for sharing your recipe! If anyone else has fabulous recipes to share, send them to me with a photo and I would love to feature on this blog!</span></div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span> </div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span> </div>
</span>Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-22893851445949356652014-06-08T15:24:00.000-05:002014-06-08T15:26:37.838-05:00What's for Supper?<div align="center">
I have no idea! That is my usual response to the question "What's for Supper?" that I hear frequently. Unless I have done any amount of planning, I really don't know. It's not that there is not food in the freezer, it's just that I don't always plan ahead to have something thawed or ready to cook after work. Planning is the key! So...... I created this list to help me be prepared for the question next time!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmr_3qQZKXi9hqR0lDEwNiH0wcN3mdkN7AqG_-tROsG6UzrKL5h_ntSL1UJRAADurU9LCjhtfSJDpp9W0bE7pueEB-RirKbmsylDZaiCPmW2yxa5imFFRyb7wNy6UEmems9I5j1h6hTc/s1600/What's+for+Supper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmr_3qQZKXi9hqR0lDEwNiH0wcN3mdkN7AqG_-tROsG6UzrKL5h_ntSL1UJRAADurU9LCjhtfSJDpp9W0bE7pueEB-RirKbmsylDZaiCPmW2yxa5imFFRyb7wNy6UEmems9I5j1h6hTc/s1600/What's+for+Supper.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.mediafire.com/?nytlz9mb5nb84qb">Printable Version</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have to admit that I created this "list" a while back and I haven't really used it yet, but today's the day! Maybe you can use it, too! Use the link above to print your own copy. Maybe, when I get my own copy filled in, I can share some new recipes! Don't be surprised to see Chick Fil A, Walton's and others on still on my list, just hopefully not every night.... On my way to plan this week's dinner!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-24442852830958460842014-06-02T11:00:00.000-05:002014-06-02T11:00:04.613-05:00The Sweet Spot - S'mores Bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKV0j8UFokFAAtE-GzyrQHVH9dFiYdIXT9Nx4sHUYa9JsimGGWas-2KspL8V_0fnUjeWGtxwKkD9eT2jE9t0dadtpnJoGiThAKGyRvtICvSrvH84UENrDOXxya0vTct6lC15Odtq1fklg/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKV0j8UFokFAAtE-GzyrQHVH9dFiYdIXT9Nx4sHUYa9JsimGGWas-2KspL8V_0fnUjeWGtxwKkD9eT2jE9t0dadtpnJoGiThAKGyRvtICvSrvH84UENrDOXxya0vTct6lC15Odtq1fklg/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The <b>sweet spot</b> is a place where a combination of factors results in a maximum response for a given amount of effort. In <a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Racquet_ball" title="Racquet ball">baseball,</a> a given swing will result in a more powerful hit if the ball strikes the bat on the latter's sweet spot. OK, I' ve been watching too much baseball this weekend! It's that time of year when I love watching my favorite college teams on the road to the College World Series!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, I watch my favorite team, the Alabama Crimson Tide first! Then I find myself watching other SEC teams and more. I'm especially enjoying watching teams like Mississippi State, Ole Miss and Kentucky whose coaches recently contributed recipes to a baseball themed cookbook we compiled for a fundraiser for Annie's school (Sprayberry Education Center). You will, of course, here more about it soon! Never thought I'd be choosing a team by their recipes! Just very appreciative of their support!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My "sweet spot" during this baseball season, included these yummy S'mores Bars that I am sharing with you! I made them for some work friends who have birthdays but we were able to sneak a few right out of the oven to enjoy for ourselves!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 22pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">S</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 22pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">’</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 22pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">mores
bars</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 22pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">Crust:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">½ C. melted butter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">1 ½ C. graham cracker crumbs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">Dough:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">2 C. brown sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">2/3 C. salted butter,
softened<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">2 eggs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">2 ½ C. flour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">2 ¼ tsp. baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">½ tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">1 tsp. vanilla<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">1 C. semi-sweet chocolate
chips<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">1 C. mini marshmallows<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">Topping:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">1 Hershey’s chocolate candy
bar (broken into pieces)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">1 Graham Cracker (broken into
pieces)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">½ C. mini marshmallows<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees.
Combine melted butter and graham cracker crumbs. Line a 13 X 9 inch pan with
foil. Press graham cracker mixture into pan to form the crust. Cream butter and
sugar. Add in eggs and vanilla until combined. Mix the baking powder and salt
with 1 cup of flour. Add to the butter mixture and then add remaining flour.
Mix well. Stir in chocolate chips and 1 cup of marshmallows. Press dough into
pan on top of crust. Sprinkle broken chocolate pieces, broken graham crackers
and mini marshmallows on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned
or it tests done in the middle. Let bars cool before cutting into squares. </span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";"></span> </div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";"><a href="https://www.mediafire.com/?7596bzyi7swwsax">Printable Version</a></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2lgSDEm14xnZXlcj1l63wi7AravjYwslXOzp0IZqnx_QkaBcBD-9-Fv_gLd2V6mrKLBY7a2UhXCmOsrdiubxo3wOptuN7CaGygErd7YjCgcyEx-vHLjEail9tk1cptVZIijqztcTSj8/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2lgSDEm14xnZXlcj1l63wi7AravjYwslXOzp0IZqnx_QkaBcBD-9-Fv_gLd2V6mrKLBY7a2UhXCmOsrdiubxo3wOptuN7CaGygErd7YjCgcyEx-vHLjEail9tk1cptVZIijqztcTSj8/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have made S'mores Bars before using marshmallow crème. I like this version better - it is easier! Make these for any occasion and you're sure to hit a home run!</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";"></span> </div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-14589119768581506582014-06-01T22:39:00.001-05:002014-06-01T22:40:44.899-05:00What's for Breakfast? Sausage Swiss Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JkQnHbSaxU7kJnaWfZ7cRqqoHNMo4T5BYlFbxyFeukPS9sgzv06Ku-Gnp-BQCcTmZlsHDPskhXVYcBdDzAV2YI9LIjEzC7f-SURIlSaBmO0j3JemoHsKQqvPy2jyYhVsxT1n3PfXBfI/s1600/Sausage+Swiss+Muffins.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-JkQnHbSaxU7kJnaWfZ7cRqqoHNMo4T5BYlFbxyFeukPS9sgzv06Ku-Gnp-BQCcTmZlsHDPskhXVYcBdDzAV2YI9LIjEzC7f-SURIlSaBmO0j3JemoHsKQqvPy2jyYhVsxT1n3PfXBfI/s1600/Sausage+Swiss+Muffins.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
If you want a super simple breakfast recipe, this it. There is no need to cook the sausage for this recipe. Just buy Jimmy Dean fully cooked sausage crumbles. One package is just the amount you need. Just mix the ingredients and bake. You can serve warm, reheat later or even freeze and heat one at a time if you so desire! You can use any variety of cheese or spice. Another good thing about this recipe is that you can keep these ingredients on hand for a quick breakfast. This combination was really good! Served with some super sweet fresh cantaloupe, it was the perfect Saturday morning breakfast on the back porch!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPjvDcv1NNT56SWLkSDz3hDFXqNvSPq7LH5YsyKpAvAO2CpuSXARlozbxiJpTf5Jx6FQkw6Tq90O6Fo51tjkxjCZmsvW-rMHSwUlpW8yrvvZ0BNyQZCRSojvb-aSAQFf3NzKNkXhsne4/s1600/photo+(24).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPjvDcv1NNT56SWLkSDz3hDFXqNvSPq7LH5YsyKpAvAO2CpuSXARlozbxiJpTf5Jx6FQkw6Tq90O6Fo51tjkxjCZmsvW-rMHSwUlpW8yrvvZ0BNyQZCRSojvb-aSAQFf3NzKNkXhsne4/s1600/photo+(24).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 22pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Sausage Swiss Muffins</span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">1 pkg. fully cooked sausage
crumbles<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">1 ¾ C. Bisquick<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">½ C. shredded Swiss cheese
(or cheese of your choice)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">¼ tsp. thyme<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">1 large egg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">½ C. milk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";">Mix sausage crumbles,
Bisquick, cheese and thyme. Combine egg and milk and mix into other
ingredients. Fill muffin tins 2/3 full. Bake muffins at 375 degrees for 20
minutes or until browned. Serve warm. Makes 12 muffins. Muffins can be reheated
in microwave for 20-30 seconds. Serve with fresh fruit.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif";"><a href="https://www.mediafire.com/?81sifg29u03c0ds">Printable Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-45940407733932864052014-05-26T21:49:00.000-05:002014-05-26T22:13:26.113-05:00Memorial Day(or Any Day) Meal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4o1NXdr_8a_RQccZr83gjH5Iam5rnDisOjGkXsmu0L19FOyHU0skf7rDhauAFq-kvJRd50sv3CC9Gvt95JwEagLavFe0fU9BPakYG72xB9JPvh0ST0DJjKp3L2B-RHhQdEJU30IuYJQg/s1600/Phone+258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4o1NXdr_8a_RQccZr83gjH5Iam5rnDisOjGkXsmu0L19FOyHU0skf7rDhauAFq-kvJRd50sv3CC9Gvt95JwEagLavFe0fU9BPakYG72xB9JPvh0ST0DJjKp3L2B-RHhQdEJU30IuYJQg/s1600/Phone+258.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These recipes were too good and too easy not to share. A couple of weeks ago, Elle had to take a "Mediterranean" dish to school for Culture Day. We made Chicken and Grape Skewers for that day. It was so easy, I started planning to do the same at home. I changed it up a bit, but we celebrated Memorial Day (and my birthday again!) with Chicken Kabobs, Grilled Potatoes, Marinated Veggie Salad, Easy Fruit Salad.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 28pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Chicken Kabobs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p><a href="https://www.mediafire.com/?swdlqe9o1wwnfiz">Printable Version</a></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Skewers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 T. Olive Oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 garlic cloves, minced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ tsp. kosher salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ tsp. orange zest<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ tsp. chili powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ tsp. black pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">3 boneless chicken breasts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Fresh pineapple, cut into chunks *<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Red pepper, cut into chunks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Cut chicken breasts into cubes.
Whisk together olive oil, garlic cloves, salt, orange zest, chili powder and
black pepper. Pour over chicken cubes. Marinate in refrigerator overnight. If
using wooden skewers, soak in water prior to using to prevent skewers from
burning. Thread chicken, pineapple and red peppers onto skewers as desired.
Grill over medium heat until chicken is done. It doesn’t take very long to cook
these small pieces of chicken so watch carefully! Serve with white BBQ Sauce.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">* You can get fresh pineapple already cut into chunks from the Publix produce section. There chunks were pretty bit so I cut most of them in half.</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 26pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Quick
White BBQ Sauce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ c. mayonnaise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1/8 c. white vinegar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ tsp. black pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ tsp. garlic powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">¼ tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Whisk together until smooth. Serve
with chicken kabobs!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 28pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Grilled potatoes</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 28pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><a href="https://www.mediafire.com/?2gxn8romejr2xwo"><span style="font-size: small;">Printable Version</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
thin</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 medium onion, sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 stick butter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 /3 C. shredded cheddar cheese or
cheese of your choice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 T. Worcestershire sauce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Salt and pepper to taste<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1/3 C. chicken broth<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
Place the potatoes and onion on a
large piece of heavy duty aluminum foil; dot with butter. Sprinkle cheese over
the top. Add salt and pepper to taste. Fold foil up around potatoes. Combine
Worcestershire sauce and chicken broth and pour evenly over potatoes. Seal the
edges of the foil. Place on the grill over medium heat for 35-40 minutes,
covered or potatoes are tender.<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 26pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Marinated Veggie Salad</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 26pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/xincfd9o3m3nd79/Recipe_-_Marinated_Veggie_Salad.docx"><span style="font-size: small;">Printable Version</span></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 can green beans, drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 cans English peas, drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 can whole kernel corn, drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 small green pepper, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 onion, sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 cup sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">¾ c. white vinegar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ c. vegetable oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ t. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½ t. pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 t. garlic powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Mix the first 3 ingredients with the
green pepper and sliced onions. In a small saucepan, heat sugar, vinegar, oil,
salt, pepper and garlic powder. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until
sugar is dissolved. Do not over cook. Remove from heat and pour over veggies.
Refrigerate overnight!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
</div>
<o:p><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 28pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Easy Fruit Salad</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BirminghamElongated","sans-serif"; font-size: 28pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/pbst87zeo8ts773/Recipe_-_Easy_Fruit_Salad.docx"><span style="font-size: small;">Printable Version</span></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 can chunk pineapple, drained
(Reserve juice)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 can mandarin oranges, drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 red delicious apple, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 cup mini marshmallows<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 cup seedless grapes, sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Mix fruit and marshmallows. Pour
reserved pineapple juice over fruit and stir.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">This recipe is a slightly different version of the fruit salad my friend, Jane, served for my birthday celebration last week. It was a hit with my family!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Super easy meal - the fruit and veggies can be done the night before! You can just put the potatoes on the grill and forget about them - I just set a timer. The kabobs are easy to put together and don't take long at all to cook. I just put them on as soon as the potatoes were done. I just moved the potatoes to the top rack when the kabobs cooked. This meal will definitely be a summer "do again"! Enjoy the recipes!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2m8vd4LTrvtyKeeCP6LNdYWPA0vT9f3HytqqigeNW8uSLl9vyy-PpTs6rOcsULXgMT5M7hwIkvCAn3w1WaFBuXl5AeNsujkyF7tRLUohJ64rqkCbWw_eBNZbxG-71jXynF5XBHVm10o/s1600/Memorial+Day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2m8vd4LTrvtyKeeCP6LNdYWPA0vT9f3HytqqigeNW8uSLl9vyy-PpTs6rOcsULXgMT5M7hwIkvCAn3w1WaFBuXl5AeNsujkyF7tRLUohJ64rqkCbWw_eBNZbxG-71jXynF5XBHVm10o/s1600/Memorial+Day.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So thankful today for every man and woman (and their families) who have served our great country! My Daddy served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was also so very proud of his service. I am proud of him, too!</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
</o:p><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
</span><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "BakerSignet BT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-50127011486922886692014-01-01T15:39:00.001-06:002014-01-01T15:39:16.863-06:00Happy New Year 2014!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8SbsgY6Exlp8fWdjhW01LOctqVt3aJaEk3yY-0QXSSQ58_YVa0mhKGKf7aoOnGJHCebOSq8w2VPK_QHogH_8EiqfjJYPAqgM-GNrg5pgUYNNYCnekQeYM6xEG8C0n3q04ZworzrGxMM/s1600/Happy+New+Year+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8SbsgY6Exlp8fWdjhW01LOctqVt3aJaEk3yY-0QXSSQ58_YVa0mhKGKf7aoOnGJHCebOSq8w2VPK_QHogH_8EiqfjJYPAqgM-GNrg5pgUYNNYCnekQeYM6xEG8C0n3q04ZworzrGxMM/s200/Happy+New+Year+2014.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I remember when the year 2000 seemed so far into the future and here we are in 2014! New Year's Day at our house - our traditional waffle breakfast, lots of football, a big pot of chili in the crock pot and, of course, some black eyed peas. I don't really think about the "why" of black eyed peas - it's just what I've always done. So...I decided to do a little research and found this article on this <a href="http://www.sunherald.com/2013/12/31/5226633/black-eyed-peas-are-a-new-years.html">New Year's Day Tradition</a>!</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This year, my tradition is served in the form of a "Black Eyed Pea Dip". Some people call this "Texas Caviar" and there are several versions out there. Here's the one I have tweeked for my own.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiJgv8eBkhyyTclEUorLUwbGPi_LwaXgtDnhDGzDWngtbS2rpEEERYsVbEGviHLgtMPgiMJ8e3rLPtJwrl9CwdC9eW_L961J1Rfs-36gmQ_WHiIzZw3_OPzDsI9CiiWtmwhhAv9cZRQWQ/s1600/Black+Eyed+Pea+Dip.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiJgv8eBkhyyTclEUorLUwbGPi_LwaXgtDnhDGzDWngtbS2rpEEERYsVbEGviHLgtMPgiMJ8e3rLPtJwrl9CwdC9eW_L961J1Rfs-36gmQ_WHiIzZw3_OPzDsI9CiiWtmwhhAv9cZRQWQ/s320/Black+Eyed+Pea+Dip.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Happy New One"; font-size: 22pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Black-Eyed Pea Dip<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">2 (15-oz) cans black-eyed peas,
well drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1 (15-oz) can whole kernel corn, well
drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">2 cans Rotel tomatoes, well drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1 small or ½ large red pepper,
chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1 T. chopped jalepeno pepper,
fresh or from a jar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1 small onion, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1/2 c. red wine vinegar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1 T. balsamic vinegar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1 t. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1/2 t. freshly ground black pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1 T. Dijon mustard<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1/4 t. sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">Pinch dried oregano<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1/2 c. olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">1/2 c. vegetable oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">In a
large bowl, stir together the black-eyed peas, corn, Rotel, bell pepper,
jalapeño and onion. </span><span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">In a jar
fitted with a tight lid, mix together the vinegars, oils, salt, pepper,
mustard, sugar and oregano. Pour the dressing into the bowl, adding just enough
to coat the vegetables but not drench them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif";">Serve
with tortilla chips or corn chips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/s0syd7nauk0hd2k/Recipe%20-%20Black%20Eyed%20Pea%20Dip.docx">Printable Version</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 22pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">My Favorite Crock Pot Chili<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjyFwzfolR8x7_iLByexF6u8owjiyyvoi-JiFM6NGW2zuc952yoWzOQNFD4hwjsVatckk9U7ybYES2VMFJhsxVoDYAoNKEKzuVZJHuU0qjWGNVoOxtUfQtqkFgLaV3DP-Chgr73q6qhE/s1600/Chili.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjyFwzfolR8x7_iLByexF6u8owjiyyvoi-JiFM6NGW2zuc952yoWzOQNFD4hwjsVatckk9U7ybYES2VMFJhsxVoDYAoNKEKzuVZJHuU0qjWGNVoOxtUfQtqkFgLaV3DP-Chgr73q6qhE/s320/Chili.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 22pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 pounds ground beef</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span><span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 cans red kidney beans, rinsed and well drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 cans chopped tomatoes, well drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 small onions, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 green pepper, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 garlic cloves, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 T. chili powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 t. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 t. pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Brown the ground beef and drain. Place ground beef in
a large slow cooker. Add all other ingredients. Stir until blended. Cover and
cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8-10 hours. Garnish individual bowls as
desired – cheese, sour cream, chips, etc.</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Note: I used one can of regular chopped tomatoes and one can fire-roasted tomatoes so it is a bit spicy! This is a very "hearty" chili!</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/fk21vj2l8fogs85/Recipe%20-%20My%20Favorite%20Crock%20Pot%20Chili.docx">Printable Version</a></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Agency FB","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><strong>So, my research reminded me that black eyed peas symbolize prosperity! Wishing you a day of fun traditions, good food and a year of happiness and prosperity! Happy 2014!!</strong></span></div>
<br />
Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-27477616421888666072013-09-13T07:00:00.000-05:002013-09-13T07:00:01.173-05:00Friday Football Fare - Game Day Party Loaf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisieZ4hIt2NKEzQjgXlaGLOoltJun_M4IWHHsevZ8yYeAXFge0bQAIDejLuO6plUG1yrJTEKSqh6SbLqqgnLifVcVp4sAzyhWjp7SfDsomyZcRfoxIULPay1Cuw36KfxfjLnOGoIjORLo/s1600/Phone+172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisieZ4hIt2NKEzQjgXlaGLOoltJun_M4IWHHsevZ8yYeAXFge0bQAIDejLuO6plUG1yrJTEKSqh6SbLqqgnLifVcVp4sAzyhWjp7SfDsomyZcRfoxIULPay1Cuw36KfxfjLnOGoIjORLo/s400/Phone+172.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you need a simple Game Day recipes to make for your family or friends, here you go! You just have to remember the let the bread thaw out in plenty of time! You any kind or as much cheese as you like! I used cheddar and mozzarella. You could spice it up with some Monterrey Jack. I have seen something similar to this with onions and green peppers included. For my Game Day loaf, I just stuck to the cheese and bacon with ranch dressing for the dipping sauce. A keeper!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Game Day Party Loaf<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 loaf frozen bread dough, thawed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Cheese Slices or Shredded Cheese (Your
Choice)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">6 slices crisp cooked bacon, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">You favorite dipping sauce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Roll loaf into a circle and place into
the bottom of a sprayed Bundt pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise until
doubled in size. Remove wrap and bake at 350 degrees 20-25 minutes or until
lightly browned. Slice all the way around without cutting through the bottom
crust. Place on a baking sheet. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stuff the
cheese and bacon between the slices. Return to oven and bake an additional
15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve with your favorite dipping
sauce. You can place the sauce in the middle of the ring.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/tvoj64rom87sg5a/Recipe_-_Game_Day_Party_Loaf.docx">Printable Version</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: DomCasualD; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">May your team win this week unless you just happen to be an Aggie! :) Roll Tide!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-89093430997762611452013-09-08T22:00:00.000-05:002013-09-08T22:00:08.367-05:00Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Raisin Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBlM1yCliWK3OYWmzIB0BtXKFRZzehVeLDmUUfbM5VLE4TgcDvebbJ83yYcb8BihyphenhyphenxCHrIwaPXJSt6_rVSFaRJoFuzeD7Hs5brHy6IICGTzFOtvugwO8lBpG7SrlSopFVf-dRVfavOM2s/s1600/Phone+173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBlM1yCliWK3OYWmzIB0BtXKFRZzehVeLDmUUfbM5VLE4TgcDvebbJ83yYcb8BihyphenhyphenxCHrIwaPXJSt6_rVSFaRJoFuzeD7Hs5brHy6IICGTzFOtvugwO8lBpG7SrlSopFVf-dRVfavOM2s/s400/Phone+173.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
OK, it's not officially fall until September 22, but there have been a few mornings this past week that their was an ever so slight touch of fall in the air! So...... that means I bring out my pumpkin recipes! I even have a Pinterest board just for pumpkin recipes! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found this recipe at <a href="http://www.momontimeout.com/">www.MomOnTimeout.com</a> and it definitely got pinned to the pumpkin board! I used pecans instead of walnuts for my recipe. Either one would be great!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Raisin Cookies<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½</span><span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> cups all-purpose flour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½</span><span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> cup wheat flour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½</span><span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> cups old fashioned oats<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 t. baking soda<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 t. cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">½</span><span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> t. pumpkin pie spice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1/8 t. all spice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 C. butter, softened<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 C. granulated sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 C. brown sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 C. canned pumpkin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 egg, room temperature<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2 t. vanilla <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 C. chopped pecans<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1 C. raisins<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Combine
flour, oats, baking soda and spices in a medium bowl and set aside. Cream
together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and mix
until well combined. Add pumpkin, egg and vanilla and stir until well combined.
Slowly add flour mixture stirring just until combined. Stir in pecans and
raisins. Chill dough for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 350. Using a cookie scoop
(mine is from Pampered Chef), drop cookie dough onto lightly greased baking
sheets or baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Press dough down slightly
with back of spoon. This dough does not spread much when baking. Bake for 15-17
minutes or until cookies are just lightly browned. Cool slightly before
transferring to wire racks to cool completely.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/wdi4zds41d18d03/Recipe_Pumpkin_Pie_Walnut_Oatmeal_Raisin_Cookies.docx">Printable Version</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjK3dTpI-R-GrkKibRJNv9y3k_fklSJF_VU3tcgffb5fjtjpFcxuP46XwziygwXot5h9LllmKk-s8JFHfbSvWcqKVmc8yd_p4SZSvw_9p4tYuciSKhiVVeROmBLFu-EmsDjk5ZADnle_0/s1600/Phone+174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjK3dTpI-R-GrkKibRJNv9y3k_fklSJF_VU3tcgffb5fjtjpFcxuP46XwziygwXot5h9LllmKk-s8JFHfbSvWcqKVmc8yd_p4SZSvw_9p4tYuciSKhiVVeROmBLFu-EmsDjk5ZADnle_0/s400/Phone+174.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Make up a batch or two of these cookies for your family, your neighbors, or your friends at work! I packaged my in Ziplock snack bags and made a "bag topper" with my message.....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Fall Yall! (Even if it is a wee bit early!)</div>
<br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9155020461501251672.post-71705486217885315142013-09-06T07:00:00.000-05:002013-09-08T21:34:29.521-05:00Friday Football Fare - Cheesy Ranch Dip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPMHBX3B94HV-8EgKf1Zyw9tYpjHkfY1DgCe7n9EqcRI8re5Y4sAalBfrdSPNB0y9f3k5qZuE7zGZRk50n-iyOYZGVQSjb9T7zWU6fiQ7V3PYGdeGhQu8RHmcm7wN5kZrDOfM18KJcJ8/s1600/Football+Dip.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPMHBX3B94HV-8EgKf1Zyw9tYpjHkfY1DgCe7n9EqcRI8re5Y4sAalBfrdSPNB0y9f3k5qZuE7zGZRk50n-iyOYZGVQSjb9T7zWU6fiQ7V3PYGdeGhQu8RHmcm7wN5kZrDOfM18KJcJ8/s640/Football+Dip.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Football season is just getting started and it's time to get back into the tailgating mode! For a very quick and easy (and most of all, tasty!) dip for your Game Day menu, try this dip!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">Cheesy Ranch Dip</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;"></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></b><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:57.75pt;height:57.75pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Owner\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image001.png"
o:title="MC900441788[1]"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;"><o:p></o:p></span></b>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">2 cups sour
cream<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">1 packet ranch
dressing mix<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">1 cup shredded
cheddar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">1/2 cup
shredded mozzarella<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">4 slices bacon,
cooked crispy, and chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-no-proof: yes;">Mix all ingredients and refrigerate for several hours or
overnight. Serve with your choice of chips or fresh veggies. I used Tostitos Scoops!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-no-proof: yes;"><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/?8wtq749h55i5v5w">Printable Version</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Minya Nouvelle"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><br />Carla Allenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09446983341343771570noreply@blogger.com0