The Great Cookie Exchange – And You’re Invited!

Posted on December 4, 2021 by HelenFern

cookie exchange

There was a time that I went to Christmas cookie exchanges every year. It was so much fun. You make a big batch of two or three kinds of cookies, then everyone goes around the table and fills their tray with a variety of sweet treats – for the family and to share with friends and neighbors. I miss doing that.

But I still like to bake cookies to share.

These little treats have been around for centuries!  The word cookie comes from the Dutch word, “koekie”, which means little cake.  Most of the original cookies weren’t as sweet as our modern versions because sugar was more of a luxury than a staple!  It is believed that the cookie originated in Persia in the 7th century – and in the next 700 years they spread all over Europe.

The Christmas cookie tradition started not long after.  Gingerbread (lebkuchen) was one of the first to be associated with Christmas.  Cookie cutters were introduced by the Dutch and Germans, popularizing the fancy shaped treats.  Sugar was so expensive, molasses was used to sweeten the cookies.  And the original animal crackers were edible tree ornaments! Continue reading →

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Holiday Cheese Balls – Throw Back Thursday

Posted on December 2, 2021 by HelenFern

The holidays are here! If you’re planning on having a holiday party with  appetizers, these cheese balls are easy and delicious!

The first cheese ball is recorded to have been created in the 1800s – and it was a big one!! Over 1000 pounds of cheese!!

Cheese balls started in popularity in the 1940s when it was first shown in print in a cookbook called, Food of My Friends. Holiday parties had to be frugal as much food was rationed. They continued to be a party favorite until the 1970s.  A New York Times article likened them to disco balls, lava lamps and shag carpet – and they fell out of favor.

holiday

They have recently had a resurgence with all the artisan cheeses that are now flooding the market. This recipe has three variations – and you can change it up to suit your own tastes! Are you ready to  holiday cheese ball? Continue reading →

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Deli Chicken Burrito Bowl

Posted on November 30, 2021 by HelenFern

Are you looking for a super easy yet hardy and delicious meal? Here is an easy burrito bowl that’s made with deli chicken and canned beans.  Easy, quick and really delicious!

burrito

This recipe is for a single serving, but you can buy a whole deli chicken and more of the other toppings to serve the whole family!!   Continue reading →

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Want To Impress With Your Christmas Party? Use These Tips

Posted on November 28, 2021 by HelenFern

Christmas

Christmas is the season to spend time with friends and family. Throughout this time, there’ll likely be a lot of gifts exchanged. There could also be a few parties and holiday events taking place. If you’re throwing one, I know you’ll want to impress.

There’s a lot more involved in this than many people think. If you don’t know what to do, you could feel a little overwhelmed. Nobody wants to disappoint, after all.

You’re not the only person to be worried about this. Almost everyone that throws a party has had the same thoughts. While some people might be somewhat gifted at this, most of us aren’t. That’s led to tips and tricks being created to help.

You might want to take advantage of these when you’re planning your Christmas party. Continue reading →

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What’s for Dinner? Sunday Link up #343

Posted on November 28, 2021 by HelenFern

Another crazy week, but far more fun that last!! I’m getting used to using a wireless keyboard (although the laptop will randomly drop some characters) and my little buddy has been home a week. Yesterday he started acting normal again! Thanksgiving is behind us, Christmas is filling the room and Happy Hannukah – and I’m running a bit behind.

Sorry the party is late, again. Hope everyone had a wonderful thanksgiving! There are more events ahead and so much to do – So please help us figure out…

what's for dinner?

 And bring your friends~

This is a collaboration of ideas ~ And we want yours! Bring your food related posts!

It’s What’s for Dinner!

So come on in and party with us!

Share as many as FIVE food related posts you haven’t shared recently (in the last month)!

Please post to your blog post only – no instagram or facebook please.

(Many people do not use those platforms)

             Please DO NOT link to Etsy or other sales sites. 

 Here are the some delicious ideas that were shared last week (and not just for dinner!). You pick the winners just by visiting the page! 

dinner features

 Please stop by and visit our featured bloggers. Show us your favorite by visiting their site – and next week might be you! It doesn’t have to be just for dinner.

Side Note: In order to be featured we must be able to copy your pictures to the post. We were unable to feature a couple of great recipes – Darn!!

Continue reading →

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