How to Turn Your Happy Planner Into Your Blog Planner

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Hey y'all!  Here we are, the day before the last day of 2015.  Like most of you I am reflecting on the past year, and thinking of how I want to grow in the coming one!  Part of that, for me anyway, is setting up my new Happy Planner.  

Last year my friend introduced me to the word of planners.  Yes, I do mean world.  There are Facebook groups designed around these things.  Washi tape, stickers, stamps, pens...OH MY!  I was totally sucked in, and am now a bonafide planner junkie!  Last year I purchased the Erin Condren Life Planner, but after using it for nearly a year I realized something.  I didn't need a planner to organize my life.  As a stay-at-home wife, with no children, my life really isn't all that hectic.  I did, however, realize that as my blog grew I needed more organization there.

So when it came time to purchase my 2016 planner, I, one, went with the Me & My Big Idea's The Happy Planner, and two, set out to discover how to set it up as my blog planner.  I chose The Happy Planner because it's set up very similarly to the Erin Condren, but, at retail will run you around $25.00 as opposed to the Erin Condren Life Planner, which can cost you $50.00+.  I also liked the fact that The Happy Planner operates on the Arc system which means you can remove the pages to write on them, AND you can also customize the planner to your personal needs by adding pages to it.  However, when it came to setting it up, I discovered something.  NO ONE had anything out there as to how they did it!  I watched HUNDREDS of videos on YouTube, and read countless blogs on the subject, and NOTHING.  So I began to take note of the things I liked from blog planners that I found on line and began to set up, what I think will be, a very functional and productive blog planner for 2016.

So enough of my rambling, let's get started!

7

Sweet and Spicy Glazed Ham

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ForTheLoveOfHam #CollectiveBias

I feel like the older I get, the more and more the holidays have been redefined.  It used to be that the world stopped on major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Everyone had a couple days to just sit back and enjoy time with their families.  However, times are changing. My family is moving to different parts of the country so it is getting harder and harder to get together. Businesses are staying open year round and people have to work. It seems like I am finding myself opening my home and table up to friends, as well as family, more often. And with everyone's schedules being all over the place I love keeping my holiday meals as simple as possible.  That is why I am IN LOVE with this Sweet and Spicy Glazed Ham.

With only three simple ingredients you are going to have one of the most delicious holiday hams to grace your table.  You aren't going to believe how easy it is and I can't wait to share it with you. 

To kick this holiday feast off, you are going to need a good base.  That base is going to be a great ham.  

 While shopping at Walmart I was really attracted to the beautiful packaging of the Hormel Cure 81 Cherrywood Smoked, bone in ham.  The cherrywood is going to provide and wonderful flavor base for my glaze, and the fact that it is already sliced is just going to make everything easier.

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Spicy Turkey Pinwheel Appetizer Recipe

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #KickUpTheFlavor #CollectiveBias

Picture this; You've made it through the holiday season.  The gifts have been opened, meals have been prepared and eaten, everything has been cleaned up.  Time to relax.  BUT WAIT!  All of the sudden you remember that the Joneses are having their annual New Year's Eve get together and you promised to bring a scrumptious appetizer that everyone will love.  The thing is you are out of time, out of money, and out of steam.  DON'T WORRY about it.  Sometimes some of the BEST appetizers for parties and ball games come from those every day items you have in your pantry.  Take my Spicy, Turkey Pinwheel Appetizer Recipe for example.  

By thinking outside of the box, we're #KickingUptheFlavor by using one of my favorite pantry staples, Pace® Chunky Salsa.  When I'm going through Walmart, I always swing through the salsa aisle. Pace® Salsa is great to have on hand for occasions just like this one!  Not to mention all of the other different ways you can use it to enhance your cooking.  

And because of that you aren't going to believe how simple and delicious these Spicy Turkey Pinwheel Appetizers are, or how quick they come together!  I can't wait to share them with you so...

Let's Get Started!

2

The Kitchen Essentials Gift Guide

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It's that gift giving time of year again, and many of us are wondering what to get the cooking enthusiasts in our lives.   Well, whether they are just starting out, or looking to upgrade what they already have, I've put together my Kitchen Essentials Gift Guide to help you out!





The items in this Kitchen Essentials Gift Guide are all things that I have tested and use in my kitchen on a daily basis, and recommend to anyone who asks me.  I know you are going to find it useful this holiday season and  I promise that no one will be disappointed to receive any of these items.

Let's Get Started!

15

Panzanella Salad Recipe

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #StouffersHoliday #CollectiveBias

Is it just me or has this holiday season been a little crazy?  It seems like for every one thing I accomplish, 3 more spring up.  That's why, I'll admit, when it comes to dinner, I take some shortcuts from time to time.  When I'm crazy busy like I've been lately, I've been known to pick up a STOUFFER’S® Lasagna to pop in the oven for dinner.  However, I always like to have something fresh on the table with it and this recipe for Panzanella salad is the perfect compliment!

Packed full of fresh veggies, feta cheese, and homemade bread crumbs, you just can't go wrong with this recipe and I know your going to love it!  So let's get started!

1

Spaghetti Carbonara Recipes

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #BaconDoneWright #CollectiveBias

Thanksgiving is now over, Black Friday-Cyber Monday has passed, and the holiday season is in full swing.   Everyone is busy and now is the time to have those great quick and easy recipes on hand. That is why I LOVE this recipe for Spaghetti Carbonara. So rich and satisfying and it only requires a few simple ingredients and about 15 minutes. 

Everyone knows that the base of any good carbonara sauce is bacon.  And you know that you're going to get #BaconDoneWright with Wright® Brand Bacon.  It's expertly crafted, rich robust flavor, and premium cuts of meat are going to really make this Spaghetti Carbonara shine.  

I went to Kroger to pick-up my favorite flavor, the Wright® Applewood Smoked and headed home to get started. 

2

Cheesy Olive Bread Recipe

I am always on the hunt for a great holiday recipe.  Nothing to fussy, but definitely something that stands out. That is why I love this recipe for Cheesy Olive Bread.

I was first introduced to this recipe last Christmas at a holiday party that a friend of mine was hosting.  It was cut into small slices on a platter and I have to admit that my first reaction was "Garlic Bread?  Really?"  But being a lover of all things cheese and carbs I gave it a try.  OH.EM.GEE!!!  It was seriously one of the most delicious things I have ever put in my mouth.  I immediately asked my friend for the recipe and I couldn't believe how easy it was.  I can't wait to share this one with you so...

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2

Easy Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Easy Chicken Cacciatore or hunter's stew is one of my very favorite comfort food dishes.  So simple, but so rich and full of flavor.  It's absolutely perfect for these cooler, rainy, autumn nights we have been having in the Mid-Ohio Valley.

I know that the idea of "cacciatore" can feel a little intimidating, but it seriously couldn't be easier.  I know you are going to love it so...

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8

Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe

It's Meatless Monday again, and I have a gem of a recipe for you today.  As we're moving further into fall so many people are asking me about what to do with the seasonal produce available to them.  Yes we have those big, beautiful apples, and various other fruits, but what about all of the pumpkins, gourds, and squashes? I know that looking at them can seem a little overwhelming, but it really isn't.  One of the best seasonal ingredients to start with is the butternut squash and I can't think of a better way to enjoy it than with my  Butternut Squash Risotto.  

This luscious rice dish is warm, hearty, and everything you want in a delicious fall inspired dish. And it is totally vegetarian!  I can't wait to share it with you so...

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2

A Walking Dead Dinner Party

 My husband is a HUGE fan of The Walking Dead Television Series on AMC.   To be honest, my husband is a fan of zombie movies in general.   So after the shocking revelation of Glen's (one of the original characters of the show) possible death, I knew I had to do something special for the mid-season finale.   That is when I decided to throw a Walking Dead Dinner party for him and our zombie loving friends!

But this wasn't just any get together.  No, this dinner party was complete with fun themed food, costumes, decorations, the whole nine yards.  The best part, I did the ENTIRE thing for UNDER $50.  I can't wait to share with you how I pulled it off so...

Let's Get Started!  But beware....The Dead Are Inside.....

4

Bacon and Blue Cheese Pasta

 

In case you didn't know this about me, I'm a foodie.  I know, shocker right!?!  So when the new movie Burnt came out last weekend, my girls and I planned a special night of food and fun, and went to see it!  Since this is a movie about a 2 Michelin Star chef, seeking redemption while going for three, we had to make things a little fancier than usual.  That is where my Bacon and Blue Cheese Pasta came into play!  

Salty, crisp bacon, tangy Castello Danish Blue Cheese rumbles, perfectly al dente pasta, and Bradley Cooper! You know it's going to be a good night!  I can't wait to share this recipe with you so...

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2

How to Make Perfect Fried Potatoes

The deeper into autumn we get, the more my soul longs for comfort food, and here in West Virginia it doesn't get any more comforting than a nice pig pan of Perfect Fried Potatoes.  

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And though it may seem like an easy task, perfect fried potatoes are an art form.  However, if you follow these simple steps I promise you will have potatoes that are soft and fluffy on the inside, but delightfully crisp on the out! I can 't wait to share this with you so...

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4

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

It's Monday, it's the beginning of the month, it was a BUSY weekend, and the last thing you want to do tonight is cook a big dinner.  The thing is though, you gotta eat, right?     It's at times like these I always think Asian food.  It's super fast to make and it always packed with flavor. My Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is  EXACTLY what the doctor ordered to pick up your Monday cooking blues.

This rich and zesty stir fry is not only delicious, but is ready to eat in UNDER 30 minutes!  You are going to love it and I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's get started!

2

Butterfinger Bark Recipe

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ReinventSweet #CollectiveBias

Halloween in just around the corner and we are all faced with parties, get togethers, and trick-or-treat that we need to prepare for.  A simple delight that I LOVE to make is my delicious Butterfinger Bark. 

It's sweet, salty, crunchy, absolute perfection and it is ready to go in no time!  I can't wait to show you how to make it, so...

Let's Get started!

5

Homemade Pear Ginger Ice Cream

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #FlavorsOfFall #CollectiveBias

Tonight is date night.  Studhubs and I don't have traditional date nights these days.  I think anyone who cares for someone else can relate to the fact that, whether it's children or an elderly parent, getting away is not always easy. So lately we have been doing a lot of after bed "Stay In" date nights.  But just because you're staying in doesn't mean it can't be special.  For example, tonight we're going to light up the fire pit, hook up the shop radio, and have a romantic evening under the stars.    I always try to have a special treat for these kind of evenings so tonight I am making a delicious Homemade Pear Ginger Ice Cream.  

The other day when I was walking through Giant Eagle I noticed they had this new #FlavorsOfFall line of food products.  That's one of the things I love about them.  They are so great about having   items that you just can't find anywhere else.  Anyway, as I was perusing through the aisles I saw this Pear Ginger Cider.  I immediately thought to myself "that would make a great ice cream". So I scooped it up and put it in my cart.  Then I saw the Gingersnap Granola and thought "that would make the perfect topping" so in the cart it went.  I picked up a couple more things that I needed and was on my way home to get started! 

2

Creamy Leek and Potato Soup Recipe

WOW!  The temperatures are really starting to drop around here, and that means soup is on the menu more often.   I honestly forget how the topic came up, but a friend of mine was asking me about leek recipes for her brother, and I told her that Creamy Leek and Potato Soup was one of my favorites.  

It's warm, hearty, and the leeks give it that great "onion" flavor without being to strong.  It is absolutely delicious and I can't wait to share it with you so...

LET'S GET STARTED!

2

How to Cook a Whole Chicken in Crockpot Recipe

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I love the idea of Sunday Supper, don't you?  Beautiful spread on the table, family gather around. But the reality of the situation is, Sunday is one of the busiest days of the week for me.  I have to be at church early for worship practice.  I'm usually there till 12:30, 1:00.  By the time I get home I'm in no mood to spend hours in the kitchen cooking.  That's why usually we eat out on Sunday.  But yesterday I decided to try something new.  I decided to try cooking a whole chicken in my crock pot. 

My good friend Catherine has been after me for a while to try this.  I was skeptical at best, but decided to go for it.  All I have to say is OH.MY.WORD!  This was literally THE BEST chicken I have EVER made!  It was tender, juicy, and every bit as good as a store bought rotisserie.  I am so excited to share with you how I made it so...

LET'S GET STARTED....

60

Baked Pumpkin Donuts with a Cafe Mocha Glaze

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #PurelySimple #CollectiveBias

I know that I've said this many, many times, but I am not a baker.  That's not to say I can't bake, but I just don't enjoy it as much as I do cooking.  So when the temperatures begin to drop and the urge to bake arises, I look for the easiest recipes possible.  That's why I LOVE these Baked Pumpkin Donuts w/a Cafe Mocha glaze.

With only three ingredients I can have these donuts out of the oven and in my belly in under 30 minutes.   Coat them with a delicious cafe mocha glaze and you have the PERFECT autumn treat!   I can't wait to share them with you so let's get started!

4

Mexican Fried Rice Recipe

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #YesYouCAN #CollectiveBias

If you have followed my blog for any amount of time, you know that I'm a hard core advocate of the pantry.  When your pantry is well stock, dinner on busy weeknights goes from "No I can't." to #YesYouCAN!  Take my easy Mexican Fried Rice Recipe.  Using a few simple ingredients from my pantry I not only have dinner for tonight, but some amazing take-two recipes as well!  

I know you're going to love this, and the best part it is ready in only 20 minutes!  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

7

2 Ingredient White Chicken Chili Queso Dip

Can I tell y'all something?  This girl LOVES her some Sunday football!  Oh yeah!  I sho 'nuff do! Here's the problem though.  For the last two weeks my favorite team has kicked-off at 1 o'clock.  By the time I get home from church there is NO TIME to make any of those delicious football snacks we all love. That was until I decided to make it a #ProgressoGameDay with my 2 Ingredient White Chicken Chili Queso using Progresso's new Chili and Stews.

That's right, I said it only takes TWO ingredients, and is ready in FIVE minutes.  You are going to go wild for  this recipe so...

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15

Perfect Crockpot Beef and Barley Stew

The temperatures here in Northern West Virginia have really begun to drop recently, the leaves on the trees are turning, and autumn is DEFINITELY in the air.  For me these temperatures awaken the need for heavier, heartier meals, and I can't think of anything more perfect to kick this season off with than a Perfect Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Stew.  

Big meaty portions of tender beef, delicious vegetables, savory beef broth, my mouth is literally watering just thinking about it.  The thing that I adore most about this recipe is that you can prepare it the night before and let it cook in the crock-pot all day long.  I know you are going to love the recipe so...

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0

#AD Butter Chicken Pasta

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #EverydayEffortless #CollectiveBias

School is back in session and fall sports are in full swing.  Life definitely gets busy this time of year. That's why I'm always looking for recipes to keep things #EverydayEffortless, but that I can still feel good about serving to to my family. My Butter Chicken Pasta is all of those things.  

It's delicious, ready in FIFTEEN minutes, and only requires ONE POT!  How great is that?!? I know you are going to love it so...

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0

Non Dairy Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer

Pumpkin season is here at last , and we are all jumping on the bandwagon!  However, so many of the coffee creamers on the market aren't very organic or vegan friendly.  After a discussion I had with a close friend of mine about it, I decided to create something for her so she could join the party too.  I was a little nervous about this at first, but I am pleased to say that my Non-Dairy Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer is right on the money!

It is slightly sweet, spicy, creamy everything you want in your pumpkin spice coffee creamer.  The best part is, it is totally non-dairy!  I know you are going to love it, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Let's get started!

3

Chicken Caprese Pasta

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This weekend I went on a girls trip to one of my favorite cities, Indianapolis. It was a great time, and on the way back home we stopped off in Columbus, OH at North Market.  North Market is this AMAZING farmer's market that is literally one of the most inspiring foodie spots I have ever experienced.  A new establishment to open there is called little eater, which is a restaurant and organic produce stand.  You see it as soon as you walk through the door, and instantly I was drawn to the rainbow of color before me.  

One of the first things I encountered were these stunning heirloom cherry tomatoes.  In the moment I saw them I knew I HAD to purchase them.  Not sure exactly how I would use them, I proceeded to walk around the market where I saw some beautiful, fresh, mozzarella and I knew instantly...Chicken Caprese Pasta.  This meal is colorful, healthy, fresh, and is ready in under 30 minutes.  I know you are going to love it and I can't wait to share with you how I made it so...

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0

How to Roast Broccoli

My husband and I have very different palettes when it comes to vegetables.  He tends to like his vegetables overdone and mushy, where I like for them to be al dente and still have a little bite to them.  But recently we were invited to my friend Catherine's house where she introduced us to Roasted Broccoli.  

John and I BOTH loved it and roasting is now our favorite way to eat it.  Magical things happen in the oven that totally transform the flavor of one of American's favorite veggies, and I can't wait to share with you how easy it is to make!

Let's Get Started....

4

Truffled Mac and Cheese

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A couple of weeks ago a friend of mine and I went to Chestnut Ridge Winery in Spencer, WV for a little picnic lunch.  It was a beautiful day, and a perfect lunch.  The thing that stood out to me the more, aside from their amazing wines, was the DELICIOUS truffle cheddar cheese my friend had bought from Aldi.  As soon as I tasted it I was in love and I knew I was going to make a Truffled Mac-and-Cheese when I got home.  

It sounds fancy and decadent, but I assure you that it couldn't be more simple to make.  And because you can find the cheese at Aldi for $3.00 it's easy on the wallet as well.  I can't wait to share with you how I made it so...

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2

Crockpot Pork Tacos w/ Pineapple Salsa

I'm the type of person that finds inspiration for recipes from all over, even on Facebook.  I recently became connected with another food blogger, Homemadezagat, who uses all of these great Caribbean inspired spices and fruit in her dishes.  It's not something I typically do, but I decided to give it a try and these Slow Cooker Pork Tacos w/ Pineapple Salsa were born!

They couldn't be easier to make and they are PACKED full of flavor.  You are going to love them and I can't wait to share the recipe with you so...

Let's Get Started!

0

Steak Marsala Recipe

As you know, I just returned from an amazing vacation in Myrtle Beach.  While there we ate at this place called Angelo's Steak & Pasta that we had heard about on the closed circuit t.v. in the hotel room.  Their signature dish is the Twin Fillets with a Marsala Sauce. 

It was CRAZY good and I knew in an instant I HAD to recreate this dish at home.  It took me a while to figure out, what I think, was in the sauce. But once I did...OH MAN!  I am so excited about this recipe so...

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0

Fiesta Ranch Chicken Tatchos

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #NaturallyCheesy #CollectiveBias

Football season is FINALLY here!  It just figures that opening day fell on the same day that we were traveling home from Myrtle Beach.  I knew we could possibly miss the first half so I logged into my provider, on my phone, and set our favorite team's game to record. If we fast forwarded through commercials we could catch up with the live stream in no time.   Since that was taken care of, I had to think of some great foodball food that wouldn't take a lot of time to prepare.  That's where the inspiration for Totcho Sunday came from!  And I can't think of a faster or tastier way to eat totchos than with my Fiesta Ranch Chicken Totchos!  What are totchos you ask?  Well, instead of using a tortilla chip for the base of your nachos, you use some delicious Ore Ida tater tots!  Oh believe me it's a GAME CHANGER and I can't wait to share with you how I whipped up this football delicacy in just minutes!  The first thing I had to do was run into Walmart to pick up the items that I needed.  I grabbed  bag of Kraft Mexican Four Cheese Blend Shredded Cheese, a bag of Ore Ida Tater Tots, a bottle of Kraft Ranch Dressing, some taco seasoning, and a rotisserie chicken from the deli.

  Now it's time to head home and get this party started!

0

Avocado Tuna Salad

As a mom, you're always looking for healthy lunchbox ideas for a your children, and Tuna Salad Sandwiches are a go-to for a busy lifestyle. However, what if you could give them their favorite tuna treat, but with the flavors and the nutrition amped up? My Avocado Tuna Salad is the PERFECT lunch time treat!  I will say that when shopping for tuna, I love Bumble Bee Albacore products because it's an easy and delicious way to add a variety of nutrients to your  child's diet including lean protein, healthy fat, and important vitamins and minerals.  Combine that with the super food that is avocado, and your child will be ready to conquer the world!  I can't wait to share this with you so...

Let's Get Started!

0

Cheesy Beef and Spinach Pasta Bake

School is back in session for many of you, and you are struggling to find balance in all of the "new" activities that now have to fit into your already busy day.  The last thing you want to be stressing over is dinner.  That is why it is good to have meals like my Cheesy Beef and Spinach Pasta Bake.  

With just a few simple ingredients you probably already have on hand in your pantry and refrigerator, you will have dinner ready and on the table is under 30 minutes.  Your are going to love this one, so...

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0

Reuben Wrap Recipe

It's Wednesday.  We're only half way through the week and it's already been crazy!  Throw in the fact that Studhubs and I are going on vacation next week, and I am feeling a little overwhelmed.  It's on nights like this that I really don't want to mess with cooking.  But, we gotta eat, and I have to make something, right?  Yes.  It's in times like these I turn to my mouthwatering Reuben Wrap Recipe.  

Studhubs loves reubens. Like LOVES them.  Any time we go to a sandwich shop you can guarantee that's what he is going to order.  His mind must be fixated on them because the other day I was making breakfast burritos and he says to me "You know what would be good in a wrap?  Reubens."  I chuckled because of course that's what he would say, but then I was like "You know what?  He's right."  So I played around with the concept and what I came up with is the perfect weeknight, no fuss, sandwich meal!  I can't wait to share it with you so ...

Let's get started!

0

Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes Recipe

Sometimes the best recipes come from simply experimenting.  That is how I came up with this recipe for my Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes.  

The other day I was getting dinner ready and had some potatoes I needed to use up.  I wasn't energetic enough to make mashed potatoes, and I didn't have the starchy russet potatoes that are good for frying, so I went to my spice cabinet for inspiration.  In the back of the cabinet I came across this packet of ranch salad dressing mix.  I thought to myself "This has some potential" so I grabbed it and decided to take a chance.  Let's just say that these Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes have since made a few appearances on my table and I can't wait to share with you how easy they are to make!

Let's Get Started!

0

BBQ Chicken Sliders

 This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ShareYourSpirit #CollectiveBias #ad

Football season is upon us, and that means one of my favorite food times of the year, TAILGATING!  There's just something special about getting together with family and friends, dressing in your favorite school or team colors, firing up the grill, and having a great time!  That's why I love my BBQ Chicken Sliders w/a Coca-Cola Sauce. 

With just a few simple ingredients you're going to have the perfect tailgating treat.  And the best part is you can do the cooking the day before to save yourself some time on game day!  I know you're going to love these and I can't wait to share with you my great idea for a family friendly beverage bar!

Let's Get's started!  

0

How to Make Kung Pao Chicken

When I've had a busy day I don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.  And being the end of the month, I don't have the extra money for take-out.  That's where my easy and delicious Kung Pao Chicken comes into play.  

It's literally ready in minutes and I dare say it is BETTER than the stuff you get from your local Chinese place.  You're going to go wild over this recipe and I can't wait to show you how to make it!

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4

A Coffee Bar Care Package

This post has be compensated by Lunchbox and its advertiser.  All opinions are mine alone.  #ad

It's an exciting time of year, back-to-school season!  My friend's son, whom I have know since he was three, is off to college, and I wanted to gift him something that was not only special, but useful as well.  That's when I decided to put together the ultimate dorm room gift!  A coffee bar care package!

Yes! I know! Perfect gift right!?!  I mean, what are college students if not caffeinated!  The base of any good coffee bar care package is the coffee maker and I can't think of a better machine for a college student than a Keurig.  It’s perfect for a student budget because it’s less expensive than going to a coffee shop every day. And it’s being offered at #Walmart for a special everyday low price.

I love that there are so many colors to choose from.  Red, orange, oatmeal, teal, etc.  He's a big gamer so I went with black.  Then I needed to choose what kind of coffee to send.  I couldn't believe how many great brands and flavors of K-Cups there are choose from! Everything from Lipton tea, hot chocolate, to every brew of coffee under the sun!  I ended up choosing the Green Mountain Breakfast Blend because it has a nice base for just about any coffee drink.  

I picked up some fun mugs (I love the PacMan one.  The board shows up when you pour the hot coffee in), his favorite flavored creamers, biscotti, some great syrups, and recipes for all his favorite drinks.  Oh, and just so he knows how much I care, I baked some delicious Turtle cookies.  I'm pretty sure any college student would be THRILLED with a Coffee Bar Care Package like this, so if you're interested in sending a certain college student one of your own, visit the Keurig at Walmart site to choose the color that matches their style and see how to build coffee bar of your own.

Happy Back-to-School and as always...

Happy Reading, Happy Eating, and Happy Living, 
~The Kitchen Wife~

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#AD Grilled Cornish Hen Recipe with a Orange Sauce Glaze

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #JuicyGrilledCornish #CollectiveBias

When you think of summertime grilling, usually you picture burgers and hot dogs.  But, if you're like me, occasionally you like to put a little black dress on your barbecue and do something special. That's how I came up with my Grilled Cornish Hen Recipe with an Orange Sauce Glaze.  A clever take on a beloved take- out dish.  It is Out of this world and you may never look at orange chicken the same way again.

The first thing I did was head on over to my local Walmart to purchase some Tyson® All Natural Cornish Hens and a Bottle of Kikkoman® Orange Sauce.  I chose these two products because Tyson Cornish Hens are All Natural with no artificial ingredients or preservatives, and Kikkoman's full line of sauces and marinades are perfect for easy grilling.  After grabbing a couple more items for sides, it was home to get grilling!  

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