Einstein said it best….

“Life is like a bicycle, to keep your balance you must keep moving” Albert Einstein

And we do ride up (and down) hills – some more than others. We might get drizzled on or even have to go through storms. Very good advice…keep moving!!

Homemade treat for mom…

it’s simple, easy to assemble and less expensive than an ice cream cake from Cold Stone Creamery…Strawberry Shortcake, a fav in my home! The strawberries happened to be on sale which is always a good thing!

Use any kind of pound cake

Your favorite Vanilla ice cream

Fresh strawberries

Assemble last minute, serve & all will enjoy!!

Deli disaster @ShopRite… again!!!

My local ShopRite (on Mamaroneck Ave) in White Plains, NY is terrific in many ways but for some reason the deli counter employees seriously need training and oversight. They seem to resist packing orders as it should be…neatly!

However, George happens to be the absolute best employee behind the deli counter so when I see him I know my order will be packed as it should. Kudos George!! Unfortunately, with all others I have to go so far as to tell them to ‘stack” the slices or even between paper..it depends. But this time my darling husband shopped and told me George was not behind the counter so….guess what I found when I opened that package!? Yup, one big gooey mess of a pound of cheese!!

What will it take for the deli employees to actually pack/stack deli meats & cheese correctly!?? No excuses like “were busy” or “understaffed”…no one is cutting the prices for shoddy service and at close to $9 a pound…this is not acceptable!!

FREE codes

Pampers Gifts to Grow free codes

XJYFP6R69GPYC4YT (1o points)

XJYFR43WTYYX47Y (10 points)

Accumulate points for products or entries to sweepstakes. Codes can be found on the inside (or underneath) Pamper products like diapers, wipes etc.

My awesome win!!

OMG…I’m thrilled with my latest really fabulous win!! I rarely enter recipe contests but sure glad I entered this one! Thank you Johnsonville & Emile Henry for the generous prize!!

The prize includes this 5.5 Qt Stew Pot, a $1000 Gift Certificate to Emile Henry and a one years supply of Johnsonville products. I’ve already received the gorgeous Red Stew Pot…beautiful!! I decided I’m going to order everything in Cerese (Red) not practical White; this way each time I use any of the products that Red will jump out and I’ll be reminded of my fabulous win! They’ll be sending the free year supply of Johnsonville sausage in coupons, thankfully! Will be happy to share that with the local homeless shelter for women. Enter sweeps peeps!!

Working w/One Pound

I’m liking working on this baby blanket made with Caron One Pound. It’s soft and has a crisp look. I’m guessing it will take 1 1/2 lbs to complete.

Colorful Art

Leonid Afremov. I love the lively colors of his Art. On a recent trip to the Greenburgh Town Hall “Matters of the HeART” Art exhibit I spotted this beautiful work and knew it was inspired by Afremov.

Rich Products Corporation expands voluntary recall to all products produced at its Waycross, Georgia facility due to possible contamination with E. coli O121

Rich Products Corporation expands voluntary recall to all products produced at its Waycross, Georgia facility due to possible contamination with E. coli O121.

Hope this recall reaches folks before anyone gets sick!

FREE…

ShopRite is offering shoppers a Free 3.9 oz Single serve King size Oreo pack x 4/13. Go here and click on the yellow Munch Mania box in the center right side of page, enter your Shopper rewards card and it’ll be loaded onto your card for your next shopping trip. The offer expires on 4/13/13.

On the same page they’re also offering a chance to win a 80″ LCD TV! GL!!

Let me know if you win!

A twist on colorful Easter eggs

Another use for colorful excess yarn balls (and egg cartons). Pre dyed non edible *eggs*. Make your own out of any color(s)

My love of BIG

ELOW…
I had a great find at my local ShopRite when Bigelow tea went on sale last week for $1.49 a box – that’s more than half off! It was time to restock! As much as I enjoy a good cup of java I also love tea. Not so much “ordinary” tea but Chai, Green & many of the Herbal teas. These are my fav’s.

The best thing is they are all as yum served iced. During the heat of Summer their Spearmint/Mint is fabulous – I serve it iced to my guests who always comment how good and refreshing it is. The best part is I never have to add any sweeteners – it just doesn’t need it!

I’m off to enjoy my hot mug of deep red yummy Cranberry Hibiscus!

Cool find

Bumped into this great deal at Walmart today so I loaded up on the cotton (Peaches & Cream) as Market tote bag time is nearing. The baby soft Bernat will work well for baby items.

Chocolate …

So much easier making the large cookie then individual ones – from this non baker. I’m passing this along to the ladies @ our homeless shelter. Everyone could use a little chocolate sunshine.

Easter colors ….baa!!

Probably better to dye the wool afterwards.

It’s NC Month!

Thanks to Lion Brand Yarn for the wide variety of yarn – at reasonable prices!

Yes, it’s National Crochet Month (& Craft month) – time to celebrate all things Crochet! My Stitch & Bitch will be Crocheting in public promoting the art at a different setting, a Tea Shop. Tea, scones & Crochet = Joy! I’m looking forward to it!

Currently on my hook: baby hats & baby (NICU) blankets. A member of my Stitch & Bitch collects and donates to a local children’s hospital.

Proud to be a “Hooker”

Dahlia

Just remember…

in the Winter far beneath the bitter snow
Lies the seed
That with the sun’s love
In the Spring
Becomes the rose…

TY JM

A cup full

Not just today on Valentine’s Day but always!!

Simple heart

Simple Crocheted heart

Treasure the one’s dear to your heart

there are no guarantees

Celebrate and create lasting memories

Reflection

Sometimes, often after a passage of time (or years) we reflect on events/experiences and gain an understanding and appreciation of how and why things occurred they way they did. At times we interfere … with grace life plays out accordingly.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.

Inspiration book

Easy enough to take the load of my brain and place the ideas into a book. Spent the weekend sorting through items to place in my new inspiration book. I love textiles so it will include bits of fabric, colors, ideas, quotes etc. A mini hardcopy version of “Pinterest” book for daily inspiration. There are no rules/regs… no neat freaky rules to follow – just fun!

It’s a soup kind of weekend here in NY so that and homemade biscuits are what’s happening in my kitchen.

Also completing my last hat for my Stitch & Bitch charity project. We joined the “Beanies for Bravery” project to stitch up as many beanie hats for the children at Sandy Hook Elementary. Here is what we’ve made in a few weeks time – so proud of the ladies! Going to mail them tomorrow.

Waterlily

Just finished this cute hat, scarf & handbag set for my niece in some of her favorite colors. Red Heart w/Love Waterlily makes for a nice contrast.

Ringing in 2013

Had such a blast ringing in the New Year…a live band kept the crowd hopping & warm …they had a colorful confetti drop & fireworks @ midnight – fun, fun!!

Wishing everyone a healthy & blessed 2013!!

FREE Code

“ONE DAY MOVIE CODE from Redbox! Just text PANDORA to 727272 to get your code!! The code is valid until 1/8/12!”

Tibbet’s Park

held it’s 3rd annual Christmas Tree lighting tonight here in White Plains, NY. It was off the charts on the fun scale! Not only were there a number of free fun things for kids, mini go rounds, etc, short parade with marching band with Santa following, there was face painting, hot cocoa and popcorn for all, performances by children singing carols, gospel singers, etc – it was a blast!!

Directly across the street is a relatively new upscale restaurant – Gaucho Grill Argentinean food. My big eyes spotted banners along their entrance. At close look it read the FREE BURGERS …woot!! We darted across the street. Yup, there was free sliders and hot cider for all! VERY smart marketing Gaucho Grill!! I do believe they’ve gained a number of new customers – including us!

TD

Gorgeous foliage creeping vine covered a random building on E 68th street in NYC = perfection.

Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade …a must see!! It’s a gorgeous day here in NY, sunny and in the low 50′s.

I’ll be cooking up TD goods but not Turkey – we opted for Ham instead. We’ll be heading to E’s cousins home for dinner later today.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

In EVERYthing….

Give thanks.

I am grateful we were not directly affected by the devastation of Hurricane Sandy. Among other things I am grateful for a warm shelter, comfortable bed and food. I do not take it for granted. Life is up and down, it can take us on a twirling spin that requires serious faith and the ability to hold on…tightly!!

If life is calm now be VERY thankful. If things are chaotic and challenging…be thankful – NOTHING lasts forever! The lessons learned going through storms often help us to appreciate the day-to-day we too often take for granted. Difficulty is mistakenly seen as punishment …it is not…it is simply part of life! You can and you will get through tough times.

The uncertainly of life ought to keep us humble. Give when you can, in any way you can. Be of support and kind to others. You too will one day need the kindness of others.

Recently, a women told me (she is an unemployed Teacher) “I spent years working and giving to the “Angel Tree” and “Toys for Tots” every year and never, absolutely ever did I ever imagine I would one day need to use these programs for my child!! She is extremely thankful for the smallest of gestures.

Veterans Day

Thank you to all who have serve and who are continuing to serve our country!!
Continued gratitude and respect. With special recognition to my fabulous husband (US Army) and my pop (US Marine Corp)

CP adventures

I’m in Crock Pot mode these days and ISO (in search of) new recipes – particularly ones that don’t require too much of the oh so yum Campbell’s condensed soup. My fav is their celery soup and since it has celery that counts for one veggie! For me CP cooking = everything in – no additional cooking!

I adapted this recipe to suit my likes and thankfully, it came out great! I like spice, not necessarily “heat” but spice – I add more then most recipes call for.

D’lish Creamy chicken & rice:

3 pieces of Chicken – any will do (I used one breast & 2 thighs.)
1 16 oz can/bag of Corn
1 can of Condensed celery soup
1 cup of uncooked rice (I used brown)
1 cup of Shredded cheese (I used a Cheddar mix)
1 medium onion (any variety) chopped

Spices:
1/2 t salt
1 T of Sazon (or ANY of your favorite spice mix)
A sprinkle of Cayenne pepper
1/2 t Garlic powder
1 T of dried Onion soup mix
1 small Bay leaf

Lay the raw (defrosted) chicken in the Crock Pot, add Celery soup, chopped onions, cheese, rice & all of the spices. Add two cans of water (I used the emptied soup can). Cover the Crock Pot and set on high for 4 hours – stir once at some point. The chicken falls apart which can easily be shredded/ cut up before serving.

Feeds a hungry group or a lot of leftovers (as I have!)

Grateful…

It felt like this race would never end!! While I feel the joy of Obama’s victory I am sadden by the divisiveness. The hatred and lack of tolerance. I feel for those with opposing opinions because we all felt so desperate to get our choice for the next fours years in office. It is my hope everyone will work hard to create a more united and embracing society.

That said, on this afternoon of the next Nor’easter (snow flurries are coming fast and furious) here in NY – I’m off to make a crock pot dish (just my second time, I’m no crock pot pro, yet!)…will post details later.

Your chance to win…

Enter for a chance to win a $250 Pier 1 Imports – Good luck!!

www.getsubmit.com/enter/sweepstakes_refer/243/662

Hudson River

Morning view on the Hudson river “Commander” cruise boat, NY. Full Fall foliage is a few weeks to go yet but the mountains are gorgeous.

Random Act of Kindness

I’m thrilled to be the lucky recipient of a RAK!!! Thank you soooo very much to my Angel, Ms. Amina!!! <3

I am always in search of yarn!!! I’m currently stitching for my charity, http://tlcpacks.wordpress.com

BN

I love Butternut Squash! They are plentiful around here this time of year. I bought a medium-sized BN squash at the farmer’s market this week and the cooler temps are begging for warm soup – mmm
So today, inspired by a recipe on the Food Network web site I decided to go for it. Of course I added a little something more I wanted a recipe that did not call for milk or cream – I’m not a fan of either. So, this was my first time making it and OMG, it’s really so easy!! Not sure why I thought it was such a difficult thing to make…it is after all just soup!

Butternut Squash soup -

Ingredients

1 (2 to 3 pound) butternut squash, peeled and seeded
2 t olive oil (their recipe called for butter – I love olive oil!)
1 medium onion, chopped
*1/2 red pepper, chopped – *my addition. Next time I’ll also add a few cloves of fresh roasted garlic.
6 cups chicken stock
Nutmeg (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Cut squash into 1/2-inch chunks. In large pot melt butter. Add onion and cook until translucent. Add squash and stock. Bring to a simmer and cook until squash is tender, about 30 minutes. Remove squash chunks with slotted spoon and place in a blender/food processor and puree. Return blended squash to pot. Stir and season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Serve.

Now, back to Crochet…

What’s cookin…

It’s only the first week of the Fall season and I’ve already made my first hearty hot meal. I’m inspired by a number of food bloggers yum recipes. But this is my go to, quick and easy – no fuss dish. It will serve a hungry group. It’s also good as leftovers. I like spicy food but you could cut down adjusting to your taste.

Turkey Chili served with brown rice.

I use a large cast iron pan.

Saute, until wilted:
1 small Spanish onion, diced
1/2 large red/green pepper, diced
2 large cloves of garlic, minced

Add to the above and simmer until meat is cooked:
1 lb Ground Turkey
1 packet or, 1 t Chili powder, 1 t Onion powder, 1/2 t Salt, 1/4 t Cumin
1/4 t of Cayenne pepper – I like the “kick”
1 can of cooked Kidney beans
Stir in 1 small, 6 oz can of tomato sauce and 1/4 cup of water.

Add to the above a few minutes before you serve:
1/2 c frozen corn
4 oz shredded cheese (I used Cheddar)

For a simple dessert:

Dice a MacIntosh apple, sprinkle cinnamon & and drizzle with 1 T of maple sugar (can also use sugar free syrup). Heat in the micro for 40 seconds on high – serve warm.

Autumn

Autumn…Chrysanthemums – what gorgeous colors!!!

Furbaby

Not mine – but this chocolate pooch was a sweetheart. There I stood on E. 68 St today caring for a strangers furbaby while he ran an errand.

Coziness

I’m ready for cooler weather!! So pleased with my over-sized soft & cozy scarf made of Homespun (in Tudor)…I just love the colors!
I tried making a matching hat but I didn’t like the way it looked early on so I “frogged” it. Instead I’m using the leftover yarn and making a smaller version of this scarf (using larger hook, an N) which will be donated to the ladies shelter.

Traveling?…save this info

Recently I read a story of family stranded for days at the Airport with no food or money. Thankfully, after days of suffering a kindhearted stranger intervened to help them.

If you, or someone you know ever find yourself in need of emergency assistance while traveling this site is a good place to start. While it is not available at every airport/bus terminal they could probably offer helpful advice.
http://www.travelersaid.org/

My new planner…

Although I use my smartphone for just about everything, I like to have a dependable back-up, a day planner! Barnes & Noble always carries gorgeous planners. A 18 month Calender works for me! It took me awhile deciding on the size, the colors & style I would love looking at for the next year. I decided on this neat green, blue & purple nature theme. It’s pleasing to the eye. I’d also been waiting for one of their e-mail coupons…finally received one!! (15% off)

A trip through GCS

That’s New York’s Grand Central Station…

Not unlike the average New Yorker I find myself rushing through this bustling station on my way to or from somewhere important (always important! lol) It’s rare that I find myself with extra time to have a leisurely look around at the many shops and eateries. My train leaves ever 20 minutes so it’s not as though I must make a train. I tend to get caught up in the bustle to get out of the city and hustle alongside everyone else. However, I decided this time I’d slow down and take an extra half hour, window shop, stop for a quick bite and snap a few pics. I ate at, of all places, Zaro’s bakery! And now they serve grilled hot dogs and savory stuffed breads. This was perfect! So, for $2.99 I enjoyed a stuffed savory cheese & herb filled croissant. No need to sit in a restaurant or go through a menu trying to decide…this was perfect! And yes, it was rich and very yummy!

So, these pics are mostly from their Market area which has among other sections, a vibrant fruit & veggie section of local farmers produce, a gourmet cheese section, health foods, breads, bakery, snacks & nut mixes of every variety, a fish section, flowers, etc. Each stand was well stocked with fresh looking products. I need to make a trip into the city just to visit this market place…soon, I tell myself.

Lastly, on my way to my train with just 3 minutes to go I see this! I couldn’t resist *Dahlia*

Keurig Coffee Maker

Enter for a chance to win a $200 Keurig Coffee Maker!!

I’ve been using my Vue machine and enjoying the ‘brew over ice’ feature for iced coffee.

www.getsubmit.com/enter/sweepstakes_refer/237/674

Good Luck!!

Your quick Vote needed!!!

Please help me with a quick daily vote for me here, it expires 8/9. Oh, and feel free to share with others:

https://apps.facebook.com/promotionshq/contests/262350/voteable_entries/55561526#_=_

Thanking you in advance! <3

Emma’s

Enjoyed spending the afternoon
with a good friend today (my final bd lunch treat) @ Emma’s Restaurant here in White Plains.

I had thisTurkey burger which was spiced perfectly & this tasty salad with herbal dressing… yum!!

Great locale, great company & mmm food!! I am grateful.

HD is calling…

After seeing some of the DIY (do it yourself) projects friends are working on I am inspired. I’m looking to paint so this $200.00 Home Depot gift card would come in handy! I’m still not sure what color though. Good Luck!!

www.getsubmit.com/enter/sweepstakes_refer/232/1833

Homespun

Ok, so it’s hotter than anything and most folks want to just soak in a cool pool but I’m thinking cool weather!! So, I’ve started working on my very first cool weather project…it will be a scarf and hat set, for me! A few months back I visited the Lion Brand Yarn store and picked up a huge skein of this Homespun yarn. It’s very soft and the colors pleasing with some blue, light green, purple & cream colors. Unfortunately, it has no label with the color so I am at a lost when others ask. I’m not a huge fan of Homespun simply because I often find myself needing to “frog” (unravel and few rows) and it resists. But, so far so good!

This is the finished “mystery” project I mentioned awhile back. It was a surprise bd gift for my friend, Kim.

Destination unknown

We’re headed on the road this a.m…further upstate NY. Exact destination unknown. Hubs has planned a getaway to continue my week long birthday celebration.

Have a safe and happy fun-filled 4th of July!

Win a NEW Gas Grill & Omaha steaks gift card!!

A spanking new grill for the start of Summer.

I like the idea of a $50 gift card to Omaha Steaks since I prefer chicken/pork.
Enter here and pass it on! www.getsubmit.com/enter/sweepstakes_refer/230/35

Inspiration…

I’m finding it in the simplest of things, like colors as seen here in Linda S Artwork. It makes me want to paint some walls!! Embrace your inner Artist and paint!!

Up for grabs…

Enter for a chance to win:

Circulon Symmetry 11pc Gourmet Cookware set

Good Luck!!

 

 

I could use this…you?

Nice!!! This would look gr8 in my kitchen!! Hoping for a win here or for one of you!!!

http://bit.ly/N9u96D

Good Luck, all Summer long!!