tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20369616894038931892024-03-13T23:07:43.188-04:00r u n s . o n . s u n d a eRachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-41496369595373966942013-08-13T20:57:00.002-04:002013-08-14T20:08:27.731-04:00chocolate chip skillet cookie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Is anyone often overwhelmed by the amount of choices at the grocery store now? I personally don't mind spending hours browsing the aisles of the grocery store, but life doesn't really allow this. I have to go in with a list or I'm left disoriented by the number of options for my dietary needs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDLzzsAq-hxGFswYB2iiMbLmia5GdhH0DAHGJKpMmX9qNNxuoxfDgOgHVZisXzU88JmBHDmLfMkK-WVGGuBr8HVorH8g2JMc8EaHB5ybT_PDxtIeyRovlmoqRT0OFtU7BIrES-JbPGi6P/s1600/IMG_0808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDLzzsAq-hxGFswYB2iiMbLmia5GdhH0DAHGJKpMmX9qNNxuoxfDgOgHVZisXzU88JmBHDmLfMkK-WVGGuBr8HVorH8g2JMc8EaHB5ybT_PDxtIeyRovlmoqRT0OFtU7BIrES-JbPGi6P/s640/IMG_0808.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I ask this question as I sit with a box of Chocolate Chip Teddy Grahams next to me. I used to love finding these in my lunches as a kid, particularly the chocolate variety. I haven't had them in years, but I saw them on sale over the weekend and decided to bite. I was horrified though to discover Nabisco now offers a strawberry banana flavor. <i>Really?</i> How unnecessary. I love this flavor combination, but lets keep it within its domain. There is no need to artificially flavor graham crackers with this fruity taste. Elth. Just sounds so gross.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPRoiA1O5Msa8ZEXGQaFYXyVMq8x32ZWEy_Hg0rcWHRh7srkrIIJTsk0254yPkZtNk6gmWWMNAq_g1wsM7FWd0LQNRdQRChm_pAsFoDG56SMiZkG4EflmGe05uO9urkVkd8ZncgJUJnRs/s1600/IMG_0825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPRoiA1O5Msa8ZEXGQaFYXyVMq8x32ZWEy_Hg0rcWHRh7srkrIIJTsk0254yPkZtNk6gmWWMNAq_g1wsM7FWd0LQNRdQRChm_pAsFoDG56SMiZkG4EflmGe05uO9urkVkd8ZncgJUJnRs/s640/IMG_0825.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway, while I was in the processed snack food section, I decided to peruse the area. Do you know how many varieties of Oreos there are now? <i>Tons</i>. And no fruity flavors. The Oreo expansion is something I solidly support.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3J_qEKlVqAfznM5Vp2F_mosL9eZPx762djY_Cu-FhoCvJwEfcV-MuXfqHZFPlQER5HmPXL8hruQVpdk2fuh5a0npSp1hDSbu8TJGnfl_TKC9upk_7Pc-ZF-T5-sbiatxGQZDnne1qaHo/s1600/IMG_0811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3J_qEKlVqAfznM5Vp2F_mosL9eZPx762djY_Cu-FhoCvJwEfcV-MuXfqHZFPlQER5HmPXL8hruQVpdk2fuh5a0npSp1hDSbu8TJGnfl_TKC9upk_7Pc-ZF-T5-sbiatxGQZDnne1qaHo/s640/IMG_0811.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And this chocolate chip skillet cookie is something I definitely support. I've always loved cookie cake and while this isn't quite the same thing, it's quite delicious. Here is a giant thick chocolate chip cookie in cake form. This is a good idea. Adding a scoop of ice cream to it is an even better one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXMMyhX3eP8UxxMQjeC04guzrho9EQJd3yRMepNNEqPDNoKdjYk0A0JrSaXqy3PNqyREEWagH75kDcrZK6O5vSakgmBLdvaLPx3bvtojNdFPlAcRcOYaNyG0FQ9L5VgGoh9FFbA7OIQ6P/s1600/IMG_0817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXMMyhX3eP8UxxMQjeC04guzrho9EQJd3yRMepNNEqPDNoKdjYk0A0JrSaXqy3PNqyREEWagH75kDcrZK6O5vSakgmBLdvaLPx3bvtojNdFPlAcRcOYaNyG0FQ9L5VgGoh9FFbA7OIQ6P/s640/IMG_0817.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie</b><br />
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1 3/4 cups all purpose flour<br />
1/2 tsp baking soda<br />
1 tsp kosher salt<br />
1 3/4 sticks tablespoons unsalted butter<br />
1/2 cup granulated<br />
3/4 cups packed brown sugar<br />
2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 large egg<br />
1 large egg yolk<br />
1 10 oz bag chocolate chips<br />
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1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Whisk together dry ingredients in a large bowl and set aside. Whisk together the sugars in a small bowl and set aside.<br />
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2. Heat your butter over medium heat in a non-stick skillet until melted. Continue stirring the butter until it's golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Watch constantly until you begin to see brown specs at the bottom of the skillet. Remove from heat and let cool.<br />
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3. Once butter has cooled, whisk into sugar mixture with vanilla. Add in egg and yolk and whisk until no sugar lumps remain. Stir in flour mixture until just combined then fold in chocolate chips (reserve a about 20).<br />
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4. Transfer dough to a 12 inch cast iron skillet. Evenly spread the dough with a spatula. Dot the dough with remaining chocolate chips. Bake until cookie is golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on cookie while it bakes and use the toothpick test to determine if center is set. Let cookie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to serve. Wrap cookie slices in foil for storage.<br />
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<i>Source: <a href="http://www.marinmamacooks.com/2013/05/the-best-chocolate-chip-skillet-cookie/">Mama Marin Cooks</a></i><br />
<i>Linked at: <a href="http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2013/08/time-to-sparkle-22/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:%20InsideBrucrewLife%20(Inside%20BruCrew%20Life)">Time to Sparkle</a>, <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/08/tuesday-talent-show-97/">Tuesday Talent Show</a>, <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/08/14/whats-cookin-wednesday-32/">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a></i>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-86013392524587325812013-08-08T20:30:00.003-04:002013-08-08T20:34:27.403-04:00chocolate cake batter ice creamCake batter ice cream and I go way back. Back to my high school days. Which seem foreverrrr ago now. Which is fine by me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRS9tVyeEK5LT1Cp56z0-FC5ktlAxM5JiPsTnTywwMoPhnGHdmmaG2DaBlN9a6tiYyUBKHWdtfyuCOZPoDt-WL81Mo695LQjQH-QlNHcQ3rmJ6z0udRlmKnmQBckd-OlUax7pYGOnSxXe/s1600/IMG_0862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRS9tVyeEK5LT1Cp56z0-FC5ktlAxM5JiPsTnTywwMoPhnGHdmmaG2DaBlN9a6tiYyUBKHWdtfyuCOZPoDt-WL81Mo695LQjQH-QlNHcQ3rmJ6z0udRlmKnmQBckd-OlUax7pYGOnSxXe/s640/IMG_0862.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Well, I actually must preface my previous statement about our history together because it doesn't involve just any cake batter ice cream, but Cold Stone Creamery's. Oh my lord, I <i>love</i> Cold Stone. Sidebar, if you're one of those people who adds an "s" to the end, then I implore you to please <i>stop</i>. A major pet peeve of mine is adding an "s" to words. So bothersome.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxgCxOk8D_J-KWO02uH6r78O_01MDa_4hRebEYqFf-hujoEGa06nvuQQk3X-8GULVLPNnHZiFUzThS1Y6QUzq-WAmPcu4cZ4Jb3dlZKeY1zbrcpLHRwSXpGVznf5PGV7VcwI-AzuyMB2M/s1600/IMG_0844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxgCxOk8D_J-KWO02uH6r78O_01MDa_4hRebEYqFf-hujoEGa06nvuQQk3X-8GULVLPNnHZiFUzThS1Y6QUzq-WAmPcu4cZ4Jb3dlZKeY1zbrcpLHRwSXpGVznf5PGV7VcwI-AzuyMB2M/s640/IMG_0844.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cold Stone was a regular spot for my high school friends and I. We didn't really partake in the party scene during high school. A shocker, I know. No, my dear friends and I could be found indulging in massive portions of gluttonous ice cream on a Friday night. My sweet friend Anna always ordered the "Gotta Have It." She's the best.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGNtutNLwBoO-rp9sErU75rONYdEpREaV91fTYZ6Hhyphenhyphen6WPJlsLKsZumrCH0_4BuyRNrzzyW4aBfmhHiFvevW-bp3rXYZxN3_DnsOZmbnzpHkOpoynZjsc_AhwV_NRmkDwtat485d425Yt/s1600/IMG_0873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGNtutNLwBoO-rp9sErU75rONYdEpREaV91fTYZ6Hhyphenhyphen6WPJlsLKsZumrCH0_4BuyRNrzzyW4aBfmhHiFvevW-bp3rXYZxN3_DnsOZmbnzpHkOpoynZjsc_AhwV_NRmkDwtat485d425Yt/s640/IMG_0873.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway, without fail, I always ordered their cake batter ice cream with rainbow sprinkles. I don't know why, but I never ventured outside of my standard order. I just loved this flavor so much and nothing else would satiate my ice cream needs. This ice cream actually became my secret weapon to swimming fast at finals during swim competitions. Most athletes fuel up on power bars, quick breads, fruits, and other energy packed foods, but I responded well to an extreme sugar high. My sweet mother would run out while I was napping in between sessions to grab me cake batter ice cream (<i>with</i> sprinkles) to go. She's the best, too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSFVz90S3jKnH6LB_2NI-xsl0Vl1p6u8K7QTIT9O34LWVFttDSFY9qybhaez2rdiO2p8qwhrAOCptMRSDK_8wqRJOT-JLzbtPA7G_FWgd7HMHX61day9-lBmW9WtrlnCHjaAJBiibbBMZ7/s1600/IMG_0865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSFVz90S3jKnH6LB_2NI-xsl0Vl1p6u8K7QTIT9O34LWVFttDSFY9qybhaez2rdiO2p8qwhrAOCptMRSDK_8wqRJOT-JLzbtPA7G_FWgd7HMHX61day9-lBmW9WtrlnCHjaAJBiibbBMZ7/s640/IMG_0865.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So, this ice cream may not be the same as my favorite ice cream chain's, but it is quite a contender. Not only is it a chocolate version, but it's so easy to make. All of the ingredients are mixed in a blender and then you simply pour it into your ice cream maker. So quick and so delicious. What foods conjure about specific memories for you? My list is super extensive, but cake batter ice cream has a particular soft spot in my heart. Churn this up friends!</div>
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<b>Chocolate Cake Batter Ice Cream</b></div>
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1 cup heavy cream</div>
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1 cup milk (low fat or whole)</div>
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1/4 cup sugar</div>
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3 tbsp rainbow sprinkles</div>
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3/4 cup chocolate cake mix</div>
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1. Combine cream, milk, sugar, and cake mix into a blender and mix until well blended</div>
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2. Pour mixture into ice cream maker and churn according to your manufacturer's instructions</div>
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3. Once ice cream reaches ideal consistency, mix in sprinkles</div>
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4. Transfer ice cream to container and store in freezer for at least two hours until ready to serve </div>
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<i>Source: <a href="http://wonkywonderful.com/1/post/2013/07/chocolate-cake-batter-ice-cream-with-sprinkles.html">Wonky Wonderful</a></i></div>
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<br />Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-30974245764817348512013-08-06T20:43:00.002-04:002013-08-08T07:50:24.893-04:00cold chocolate snacking cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here is your solution to fighting the dog days of summer. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGSdOtznb2lQae0ZivBVyMFeYwhT0aKeTsZF3nmC_hIpqJO_1Dtw57rl0Hz2aXAgIgvg_uzk6RBADqOPQ9MTTjeXtwAOWuUPdyXkpEmJ0cW4bivNIbWrHdbr9HDMcqbAGBQg4CFlLzx6HP/s1600/IMG_0745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGSdOtznb2lQae0ZivBVyMFeYwhT0aKeTsZF3nmC_hIpqJO_1Dtw57rl0Hz2aXAgIgvg_uzk6RBADqOPQ9MTTjeXtwAOWuUPdyXkpEmJ0cW4bivNIbWrHdbr9HDMcqbAGBQg4CFlLzx6HP/s640/IMG_0745.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ok, so maybe cake isn't the first thing you'll want to reach for when coming inside from the heat, but I know you'll want a piece of this!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFkYWOA55UlPN77YjTR6zjcjAmulaQZJtqh7zrbMkyPhjNE9yjsvxSMfp0JfTm_wGRyA7vZsso6o4DauKjkmdrPXspdkyTAds3OjbZ6tXJf4kJwIKjcibiy_kUhjvq2k1Tj1wAUT-QVT-/s1600/IMG_0768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFkYWOA55UlPN77YjTR6zjcjAmulaQZJtqh7zrbMkyPhjNE9yjsvxSMfp0JfTm_wGRyA7vZsso6o4DauKjkmdrPXspdkyTAds3OjbZ6tXJf4kJwIKjcibiy_kUhjvq2k1Tj1wAUT-QVT-/s640/IMG_0768.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Are you supposed to refrigerate cake after serving? I'm not sure if there's an unspoken rule, but this seems to be the case with any leftover cake I've had the pleasure of eating. I personally love cold cake. The frosting thickens and fuses itself to the cake layers to form a richer, heavier, more delicious treat. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWtMqg7DD8M6Ic8jUFZupUmqwTTBDI3nwjkHtWt0y_xecSnxQHLJiboEaoOwUZaxX9IFMzXABr3zNCxEqDGt4T9H6L6NeleRdsOmfWQFf-GPbVODD5X6YDyaI456-N7d6399NxUl6Vv6iN/s1600/IMG_0742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWtMqg7DD8M6Ic8jUFZupUmqwTTBDI3nwjkHtWt0y_xecSnxQHLJiboEaoOwUZaxX9IFMzXABr3zNCxEqDGt4T9H6L6NeleRdsOmfWQFf-GPbVODD5X6YDyaI456-N7d6399NxUl6Vv6iN/s640/IMG_0742.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This cake is rich and thick on its own, so the time it takes to chill in the refrigerator only makes the chocolate flavor deeper and texture more fudgy. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMh3GgChJ2J0N1VBEvRq-H6TtR_XLbJClpDAend6lg4YiuZOvmiN1ykuZ-MmhHorjZS3-ONhiTWbXwRSbi0Pqu2qub1SBfLBhBAMlRB9a87IuHclkezJmr-wHZJhm64Hn1E5J2Xu__iiNC/s1600/IMG_0714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMh3GgChJ2J0N1VBEvRq-H6TtR_XLbJClpDAend6lg4YiuZOvmiN1ykuZ-MmhHorjZS3-ONhiTWbXwRSbi0Pqu2qub1SBfLBhBAMlRB9a87IuHclkezJmr-wHZJhm64Hn1E5J2Xu__iiNC/s640/IMG_0714.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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My will power was pretty pathetic during the photographing of this dessert. I first had a piece for quality assurance. Once determining that this recipe was a success, I cut another piece to stage for photos. See above. Then I ate that piece. Repeat. I finally decided that this cake looked best while being eaten, so that's what today's post is all about, me enjoying this decadent chocolate dessert. And enjoy it I <i>did</i>. A lengthy run ensued shortly thereafter. So worth it. </div>
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<b>Cold Chocolate Snacking Cake</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><i>For the Cake:</i></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">3/4 cup all-purpose flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">1/2 teaspoon baking powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">1/4 teaspoon salt</span><br />
<span style="border: 0px; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; orphans: 4; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature</span><span style="border: 0px; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; orphans: 4; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">1 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">3 large eggs</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">1/2 cup sour cream</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;"><i>For the frosting:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">1 cup heavy cream</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">6 oz semi sweet chocolate, finely chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">1/2 cup powdered sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">1/3 cup dark chocolate cocoa powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px; orphans: 4;">1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8x11 baking pan with cooking spray and set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together dry ingredients and set aside. In a large bowl beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and beat until </span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">incorporated then beat in vanilla. Stir in sour cream until combined. Stir in flour mixture until just combined. Pour into prepared baking pan and evenly spread with spatula. Bake 30-35 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">2. While cake is baking, make your frosting. Place heavy cream in microwave safe bowl and microwave until comes to a rolling boil. Remove from microwave and stir in chopped chocolate until fully melted. Whisk in sugar and coca powder until completely smooth. Refrigerate frosting for at least an hour. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">3. Once your cake is completely cooled, frost cake with chilled frosting and refrigerate for at least a few hours. Serve cold. Enjoy!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><i>Source: <a href="http://theviewfromgreatisland.com/2012/07/cold-chocolate-snacking-cake.html">The View From the Great Island</a></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><i>Linked at: <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/08/07/whats-cookin-wednesday-31/">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a>, <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/08/tuesday-talent-show-96/">Tuesday Talent Show</a>, <a href="http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2013/08/time-to-sparkle-21/">Time to Sparkle</a>, <a href="http://www.momontimeout.com/2013/08/your-creative-timeout-party-no-93/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:%20momontimeout/zXtr%20(Mom%20On%20Timeout)">Mom On Timeout</a></i></span></span><br />
<br />Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-62934669438933568982013-07-31T07:29:00.000-04:002013-07-31T21:10:49.748-04:00fudge brownie ice cream cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If there's one thing that I can't resist off of the dessert menu when dining out, it's a hot fudge brownie sundae.<br />
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Actually, I'm not really sure that statement is true, as I'm always able to find <i>something</i> to order on the dessert menu, but what I'm getting at is that I really love hot fudge brownie sundaes. Of course, I enjoy both ice cream and brownies well on their own, but when they compliment each other so perfectly, why not always enjoy the two together?<br />
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Ice cream cupcakes isn't a novel idea. I've heard about them for a while now and made mental notes to create my own homemade version, but it became one of those recipes that gets forgotten about. Sometimes I find myself rummaging through my pinterest boards in search of a new recipe, but I'm so overwhelmed by the volume of recipes I've accumulated that I just go bake a batch of chocolate chip cookies. Or maybe it's because I've become so hungry that I can't take the time to learn a new recipe. Hm.<br />
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In any case, after finally whipping together these decadent ice cream treats, I'm telling you that this recipe is not one to be missed! Oh my lord, these are <i>so good. </i>You have know idea what it was like photographing these cups of heavenly brownie ice cream bliss. They melt quickly so keep that in mind when deciding how/where to serve these. I believe that I had...five after ending the photo session. I couldn't control myself! My taste testers had little resolve to only eat one also, so I felt mildly better about my gluttony.<br />
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These are the perfect summer treat and I can't wait to try more flavor combinations. I think Ben and Jerry's Chubby Hubby ice cream would be a splendid version. Mmm, so many possibilities!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmVsfzy-Vgz04S4axrRQbWlA_xofyEa7nxQjRVtTzQNkee30B8D9455XppLnLiA3U2-IJTiBWAPTxJ4oV6uA8dfAkTq3j56LF2_RAVMiKS-HGsBLmy-aLp440JP11xp3Yyn4iljnOCkFk/s1600/IMG_0454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmVsfzy-Vgz04S4axrRQbWlA_xofyEa7nxQjRVtTzQNkee30B8D9455XppLnLiA3U2-IJTiBWAPTxJ4oV6uA8dfAkTq3j56LF2_RAVMiKS-HGsBLmy-aLp440JP11xp3Yyn4iljnOCkFk/s640/IMG_0454.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Fudge Brownie Ice Cream Cupcakes</b><br />
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1 box of brownie mix, plus ingredients listed on the back of the box<br />
1 gallon of vanilla ice cream<br />
1 tub of whipped topping (I used Cool Whip)<br />
chocolate syrup<br />
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1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin tin with liners or lightly grease with cooking spray. Prepare brownie batter as directed on the back of the box. Spoon two tablespoons of batter into muffin cups. Bake 8-10 minutes, or until batter is just set. Remove and let cool completely.<br />
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2. While cupcakes are cooling, let ice cream soften on the counter. Once cupcakes are cooled, add a scoop of ice cream to each cupcake and even spread with a spoon. Place cupcakes in freezer for a few hours.<br />
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3. When ready to serve, remove from freezer and quickly add whipped topping to cupcakes. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and/or garnish with sprinkles.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<i>Source: <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2013/06/fudge-brownie-and-coconut-ice-cream-cupcakes/">How Sweet It is</a></i><br />
<i>Linked at: <a href="http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2013/07/time-to-sparkle-20">Time to Sparkle</a>, <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/07/tuesday-talent-show-95?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ChefInTraining+%28Chef+in+Training%29">Tuesday Talent Show</a>, <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/07/31/whats-cookin-wednesday-30">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a>, <a href="http://www.momontimeout.com/2013/07/your-creative-timeout-party-no-92/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:%20momontimeout/zXtr%20(Mom%20On%20Timeout)">Your Creative Timeout</a></i>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-50567655485439113712013-07-29T15:48:00.002-04:002013-08-04T19:18:25.162-04:00oreo cheesecakeDid you all know that tomorrow is National Cheesecake Day? Most likely not, so I'm happy to inform you of this occasion. I only relay the important information.<br />
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When I first heard about this holiday, I realized that it was the perfect opportunity to break in my springform pan. I'm not sure if it was received as a wedding gift, or if I used a wedding gift card to purchase it, but this pan has been sitting in my cabinet taunting me for ages. It was definitely time that I truly embrace my housewife status and churn out a cheesecake, so that's precisely what I did on Friday night, as seen on <a href="http://ink361.com/app/#!/photo/ig-508851478711859406_6965861">instagram</a>. </div>
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We had to leave early on Saturday for a wedding in Philly, so I was unable to photograph this beauty until yesterday. Unfortunately, it was just a bad day for photography. All of the elements were against me. Bad lighting, low camera battery, poor camera cooperation with focusing, I was hungry. Very frustrating. These photos are definitely not to my satisfaction, but this cheesecake was too delicious not to share. I tried to replicate Cheesecake Factory's presentation by adding a whipped frosting and oreo garnish. I think it adds a little pizazz. </div>
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A thick oreo crust serves as the base for a thick creamy cheesecake filling with pieces of oreo chunks enjoyed in each bite. This dessert is so decadent, but worth every calorie, if you're concerned about that sort of thing. The recipe couldn't be an easier either, so no excuses! Bust out your spring form pan and bake yourself a cheesecake. If you don't have this kind of pan, then an 8x8 baking pan or even a 9x13 pan will suffice. Happy National Cheesecake Day!</div>
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<b>Oreo Cheesecake</b></div>
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<i>For the crust:</i></div>
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24 oreos</div>
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3 tbsp butter, melted</div>
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<i>For the cheesecake:</i></div>
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12 oz cream cheese, room temperature (3 packages)</div>
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1 cup granulated sugar</div>
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3 eggs</div>
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1/3 cup sour cream</div>
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1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract</div>
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15 oreos (I used double stuff), chopped into small pieces</div>
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1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees</div>
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2. Place oreos in a large ziploc bag and crush oreos into fine crumbs by rolling a rolling pin over the bag (or use a food processor). Pour melted butter into bag and evenly distributed. Press oreo mixture firmly onto bottom of 9 inch springform pan. Bake crust for ten minutes then remove from oven</div>
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3. While the crust is baking, prepare the cream cheese filling. In bowl of standing mixer, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Slowly add eggs one at a time and beat until well blended. Add sour cream mix until combined. Gently fold in oreo pieces. Pour onto prepared crust and smooth with a spatula in an even layer. Bake for 45 minutes or until center is almost set (giggles slightly) Allow cheesecake to cool on cooling rack, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<i>Source: <a href="http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/oreo-cheesecake/">My Baking Addiction</a></i></div>
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Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-67289620681023259762013-07-26T07:50:00.000-04:002014-02-04T09:39:55.572-05:00friday favorites<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Hello, hello. This week was an odd one. It felt slow and quick at the same time. The majority of my department was in systems training all week so there was a quiet vibe in the office and the week just felt off. Not to mention the </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">bizarre but delightful weather that blew in yesterday. No humidity, no steamy air. Just a cool clean breeze. I'm quite ready to say goodbye to summer, but not before my trip to Cape Cod next month!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Not much on the agenda this weekend, so on to my favorite finds from this week!</span></span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite indulgence: </b><a href="http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/chocolate-chip-stuffed-cinnamon-roll-ice-cream-with-vanilla-bean-brown-butter-sauce/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Chocolate Chip Stuffed Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I've visited a considerable amount of ice creameries in my 26 years of life and no one has ever offered this incredible ice cream flavor. Now that I've tackled making homemade ice cream, I'lll attempt to bake cinnamon rolls with the sole purpose of churning them in ice cream. Hm, maybe I'll start out with Pillsbury rolls to expedite getting this treat into my mouth.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6Hfl60Y0x1W6Atr270IeZorvBR4Ql3D0qqIyJUZgXxdwHDQo_I52K8qIJ3dIhETj9HdJ0BlUYSJOSOfvpt3VCq0YrOsPM0xi0XQHVyDG1yeTGuLwoYgSubwUk54pF0S_cyMT42q9mSaF/s1600/Chocolate-Chip-Stuffed-Cinnamon-Roll-Ice-Cream-with-Vanilla-Bean-Brown-Butter-Sauce-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6Hfl60Y0x1W6Atr270IeZorvBR4Ql3D0qqIyJUZgXxdwHDQo_I52K8qIJ3dIhETj9HdJ0BlUYSJOSOfvpt3VCq0YrOsPM0xi0XQHVyDG1yeTGuLwoYgSubwUk54pF0S_cyMT42q9mSaF/s640/Chocolate-Chip-Stuffed-Cinnamon-Roll-Ice-Cream-with-Vanilla-Bean-Brown-Butter-Sauce-10.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b style="background-color: white;">Favorite look: </b><a href="http://livekellyandmichael.dadt.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Turquoise and Purple</a><span style="background-color: white;">. My family and friends know that I'm obsessed with Kelly Ripa. I've been watching her for the last 12 years since she joined Live With Regis and Kelly. She can do no wrong in my eyes and this outfit is no exception. She looks phenomenal every day, but this look she wore on Wednesday caught my attention because I love the color combination. The colors don't translate as well when captured by my iphone camera, but I think it's a lovely color scheme. The beaded necklace is a cute accent piece as well. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCnLEBEpVZ_bqjZG5mbBiDaHZK1MCicaALQxWt__sIgf_HSK7qjAxDbBZ_xa297gIeVy8fKhApPmeVgBPocGttuEsnOMsE6GtI4xT0nJg8IG7bLDFZ-j1bKaetThyphenhyphen8oJL1AVg-2Q_aDOw/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCnLEBEpVZ_bqjZG5mbBiDaHZK1MCicaALQxWt__sIgf_HSK7qjAxDbBZ_xa297gIeVy8fKhApPmeVgBPocGttuEsnOMsE6GtI4xT0nJg8IG7bLDFZ-j1bKaetThyphenhyphen8oJL1AVg-2Q_aDOw/s640/photo.JPG" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="background-color: white;">Favorite meal: </b><a href="http://bakedbree.com/kale-and-ricotta-pasta" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Kale and Ricotta Pasta</a><span style="background-color: white;">. I confess that I've never had kale. It's such a trendy veggie now, so I'm surprised that I still haven't attempted incorporating it into one of our dinners or at the least ordering it off of the menu. I think that this is a good starter meal to introduce kale into my life. Creamy pasta? Yes, please.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj258p1aDe7zWO2pGEy8RBnNqq6rDK1q1J7Xut2GUYnv82_t8TI7g_6KqSvBfyrp05UQ6fduQMwN6ToqyxDTBezVgpaY7K8zn4XERcfIIGpr6vJb7kEyV74radDnWL8yUonGgCDch-yGRBx/s1600/kale-and-ricotta-pasta_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj258p1aDe7zWO2pGEy8RBnNqq6rDK1q1J7Xut2GUYnv82_t8TI7g_6KqSvBfyrp05UQ6fduQMwN6ToqyxDTBezVgpaY7K8zn4XERcfIIGpr6vJb7kEyV74radDnWL8yUonGgCDch-yGRBx/s640/kale-and-ricotta-pasta_13.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="background-color: white;">Favorite decor: </b><a href="http://justbesplendid.tumblr.com/post/276843416/love-the-window" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Floor to Ceiling Glass Windows</a><span style="background-color: white;">. I've loved floor to ceiling windows since seeing them for the first time in my wedding hotel suite. I'm not sure how well they work in a traditional home, but should I ever be able to purchase a home on the lake such as this, then I will request this feature.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5A1qAwBzFUN1DCNaSjTbpBGiNDmHq_3_OSNaarFwcaXi8Hal9mZAKQy4ckEaHYiNVc9buq_Axgkur1JZGp5MHIlSzHkSAe-9gyboCZvhZdIgLRUyLU9rEe6wIcK5XH3R_tmsbYoGwGfM/s1600/b4f8b990ade5b89f6a447fa2fcabab36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5A1qAwBzFUN1DCNaSjTbpBGiNDmHq_3_OSNaarFwcaXi8Hal9mZAKQy4ckEaHYiNVc9buq_Axgkur1JZGp5MHIlSzHkSAe-9gyboCZvhZdIgLRUyLU9rEe6wIcK5XH3R_tmsbYoGwGfM/s400/b4f8b990ade5b89f6a447fa2fcabab36.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="background-color: white;">Favorite Grill: </b><a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/roasted-red-pepper-hummus-avocado-feta-sandwich/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Grilled Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Avocado Feta Sandwich</a><span style="background-color: white;">. The avocado kick continues. I actually have been making myself a lunch similar to this one this week. Amazing flavor combinations happening between two pieces of grilled bread. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4RDh9kNACCSiC6qwOVAtVdA_miCTznIw-QIUZCRmTQwrmiFhpeX7tCej9nVMZZPALexd7n5nu4Qa-oPWpW-LE5w1MTwRmX4XFp855Yn9MYGSQ4ogiF2plQb5rZoIf2s8WxMXUFzdOjnV/s1600/Grilled-Roasted-Red-Pepper-Hummus-Avocado-Feta-Sandwich-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4RDh9kNACCSiC6qwOVAtVdA_miCTznIw-QIUZCRmTQwrmiFhpeX7tCej9nVMZZPALexd7n5nu4Qa-oPWpW-LE5w1MTwRmX4XFp855Yn9MYGSQ4ogiF2plQb5rZoIf2s8WxMXUFzdOjnV/s640/Grilled-Roasted-Red-Pepper-Hummus-Avocado-Feta-Sandwich-5.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="background-color: white;">Favorite pup: </b><a href="http://longislandpreppy.tumblr.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Cuddle Pup</a><span style="background-color: white;">. What a face. Dogs are such natural cuddlers and I wish I had one to nuzzle up against me on the couch right now.</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NfRINpSBa90cXThxoLQAlUDlniwUOzvvumLOQUTAwgL2xVgE2_mN8utY9LRd5nged1CRQ_NYnQqR32uZwigdCd6jTrxvvgmiSJAkupFulgChT001u6-rSh9tnUG8wMYT_AQFeGLCYLaR/s1600/tumblr_mjgtdiDsJv1r0ict1o1_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NfRINpSBa90cXThxoLQAlUDlniwUOzvvumLOQUTAwgL2xVgE2_mN8utY9LRd5nged1CRQ_NYnQqR32uZwigdCd6jTrxvvgmiSJAkupFulgChT001u6-rSh9tnUG8wMYT_AQFeGLCYLaR/s400/tumblr_mjgtdiDsJv1r0ict1o1_400.jpg" height="400" width="387" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="background-color: white;">Favorite sweet: </b><a href="http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2013/07/22/mississippi-mud-brownies/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Mississippi Mud Brownies</a><span style="background-color: white;">. Have you ever heard of these decadent treats? I've seen recipes for this in cake form, but brownies seem more up my alley because the richer the better. Chewy brownies are topped with marshmallows then a fudge frosting and sprinkled with pecans. I don't know if I could stop myself from devouring the entire pan. No, I know that I couldn't.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzTNM9v-9crKBkC4Xu8JjnytpypYHIacvmhfFttfh3uqtuVBCNdUI_5J8dgHVVqncpAnTVZWSRtxhyW_hD8BcQWzSZE5RLamoIwinQhyKxUFvEATweer1ggue2YRMlRxCNA-C3C6OFc00/s1600/fdb4fc1e55b45fd1da284e9148102a68.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzTNM9v-9crKBkC4Xu8JjnytpypYHIacvmhfFttfh3uqtuVBCNdUI_5J8dgHVVqncpAnTVZWSRtxhyW_hD8BcQWzSZE5RLamoIwinQhyKxUFvEATweer1ggue2YRMlRxCNA-C3C6OFc00/s640/fdb4fc1e55b45fd1da284e9148102a68.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="background-color: white;">Favorite read: </b><a href="http://nymag.com/thecut/2013/03/martha-stewarts-best-lesson-dont-give-a-damn.html" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Martha Stewart's Best Advice</a><span style="background-color: white;">. This read is a little lengthy, but it's a really interesting, funny and smart analysis of her career.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmufAiqa6SVIGAZVLoOp0FSZES-KrGfV5705IThrXmaQAqr5lGLQbIo680RfN1QbtcsGuRP2HljHYbCPKlKXeHblqa6U2NIVVHyxY6ulwQpjpqZbUNIcZl8ys7_EoEad2uRPUjre53iZQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-07-24+at+7.14.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmufAiqa6SVIGAZVLoOp0FSZES-KrGfV5705IThrXmaQAqr5lGLQbIo680RfN1QbtcsGuRP2HljHYbCPKlKXeHblqa6U2NIVVHyxY6ulwQpjpqZbUNIcZl8ys7_EoEad2uRPUjre53iZQ/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-07-24+at+7.14.49+PM.png" height="325" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="background-color: white;">Favorite Photo: </b><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/23/kate-middleton-leaves-hospital_n_3636940.html" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Three Peas in a Royal Pod</a><span style="background-color: white;">. As mentioned in my post about <a href="http://runsonsundae.blogspot.com/2013/07/no-bake-reeses-peanut-butter-bars.html">No Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars</a>, I followed along during the Royal Baby Watch. I hope you watched the video footage of them first leaving the hospital with their little peanut.They were so cute and endearing and I just love them. George though? Ugh, not pleased about that one.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<strong>Favorite Bite: </strong><a href="http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/blue-cheese-lobster-beignets-with-spicy-avocado-cream-garden-veggie-saute/#comment-22809" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Blue Cheese Lobster Beignets with Spicy Avocado Cream Garden Veggie Sauce</a><span style="background-color: white;">. Whew, that is a mouthful, but I love every word of it! This concept comes from an amazing blogger who is only 19. How can someone so young create something as sophisticated and delicious as these divine morsels is beyond me. I'll never be excited over regular seafood appetizers again. Shrimp cocktail? Meh.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><strong>Favorite Funny: </strong><a href="http://gossiponthis.com/2013/07/25/watch-colbert-report-stephen-mocks-royal-baby-news-coverage/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Stephen Colbert Mocks Royal Baby Coverage</a><span style="background-color: white;">. Speaking of the royal baby, Stephen Colbert did a very funny segment on the media coverage. Click the gray hyperlink to watch the video. </span></span></span></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="background-color: white;">Favorite quote: </b><a href="http://www.anamublog.com/words-worth-repeating-21/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Live Your Life</a><span style="background-color: white;">. So true.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-66770814300285842062013-07-24T18:15:00.001-04:002013-07-31T18:40:49.791-04:00zucchini breadMy sister came home the other day with the largest zucchini I've ever seen. It was picked from my aunt's garden and hand delivered to me with instructions to bake something with it. I suppose that I could have been more creative when choosing what to make with it, but this seemed like an easy solution for an overgrown vegetable.<br />
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">I actually don't automatically associate zucchini with savory dishes. I think it's because I was introduced to zucchini in muffin form. My mother used to purchase the most delightful zucchini muffins from my favorite bakery, Publix. They were incredibly moist and sweet and a staple in my diet throughout high school. These muffins would come in packs of four and I recall easily finishing all four within 24 hours. <i>Those</i> were the days. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfNmPTfuWIpnZzCXReQXUkHIGtPwtiO6DZ8giAQw2V9is7r_cVvr0srWVDNjgAT2fEsoqUOMKncIrSX1XdgduaruAQTiL0E-f-6dVPcPUa-DgduFroLFAKyW8S7CfIEpXaOldHjC2kLACP/s1600/IMG_0470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfNmPTfuWIpnZzCXReQXUkHIGtPwtiO6DZ8giAQw2V9is7r_cVvr0srWVDNjgAT2fEsoqUOMKncIrSX1XdgduaruAQTiL0E-f-6dVPcPUa-DgduFroLFAKyW8S7CfIEpXaOldHjC2kLACP/s640/IMG_0470.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I only recently introduced zucchini to my dinner plate after I discovered how delicious it is when it's properly seasoned and sautéed. I still, however, prefer my vegetables sugared and baked to perfection.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPNQT8qgME3fYUXer9aMsEu-XElbf91u87PS3dBX2KPOURYSzCoOtY-KOKQ7AMebvGYhiV89I6kw76rAjUGPz8dG9V7I2dnTSJLUp2Om72Y9ikvWhuJeTZtcYtHw7rCrqecpm5DJ9H2r-/s1600/IMG_0492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPNQT8qgME3fYUXer9aMsEu-XElbf91u87PS3dBX2KPOURYSzCoOtY-KOKQ7AMebvGYhiV89I6kw76rAjUGPz8dG9V7I2dnTSJLUp2Om72Y9ikvWhuJeTZtcYtHw7rCrqecpm5DJ9H2r-/s640/IMG_0492.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This zucchini bread comes from the infamous blog Smitten Kitchen. You can always trust Deb to deliver a delicious recipe. This one is simple and quite tasty. I overbaked mine slightly because I went to the gym while it was in the oven and asked my husband to remove it from the oven once the timer beeped and use his judgment to determine whether it was done (foolish, I know). I recommend pulling your bread out around 50 minutes and using the toothpick test to see if it's ready. Enjoy!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhb_XqVBNZNVy9Dy1rhdE-lGwvQANFsTrh-RfXVz7G3bbTDcXDr0Hz-ekmaZq7wdQbmhCcLRl3kzgpHhd-7A6ocHDl9NcmlKKTH21Sl9X4kDOTmKFN9azkGHV39lEk4j73aBHkIFxm086/s1600/IMG_0495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhb_XqVBNZNVy9Dy1rhdE-lGwvQANFsTrh-RfXVz7G3bbTDcXDr0Hz-ekmaZq7wdQbmhCcLRl3kzgpHhd-7A6ocHDl9NcmlKKTH21Sl9X4kDOTmKFN9azkGHV39lEk4j73aBHkIFxm086/s640/IMG_0495.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Zucchini Bread</b><br />
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3 cups all purpose flour<br />
3 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/8 tsp nutmeg<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1 3/4 cups sugar<br />
1 cup oil<br />
3 eggs<br />
2 cups grated zucchini<br />
2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees<br />
Grease two loaf pans and set aside<br />
In a large bowl, beat eggs with a whisk<br />
Mix in oil, sugar, and zucchini until well combined<br />
In a medium bowl, whisk together dry ingredients<br />
Slowly incorporate dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined<br />
Divide batter into prepared pans<br />
Bake loaves for 1 hour, minus/plus 10 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean<br />
Let cool completely on cooling rack before serving<br />
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*Note: recipe can easily be halved<br />
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<i>Source: <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2007/07/summer-of-the-bats/">Smitten Kitchen</a></i><br />
<br />Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-88314096153774906242013-07-22T19:31:00.000-04:002013-07-24T21:21:52.559-04:00no bake reese's peanut butter bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Did anyone else engage in the Royal Baby Watch? What a bunch of hoopla. The Today Show sent Natalie Morales across the pond 10 days ago to capture every minute leading up to the big push and it's been painful watching her try to fill air time with things to do. Clearly, the media misjudged her due date as Natalie's had nothing to do for about 7 days now. </div>
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But hooray! A little baby prince was born today. I've seen the list of possible baby names and I'm mostly opposed to the name "George." I don't know why, but I'm not a fan of that one. I do like one George Banks (I hope you don't need to look up this reference), but the name is just too formal for my liking. </div>
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Many people argue that the Royal Monarchy is antiquated and irrelevant, but I think it's quite nice. I wish we had a similar system that encouraged celebration and allowed time off from work in honor of a little bebe's birth. Seriously, did you catch the highlights of the British excitement on tonight's news? I'm trying to think of a similar occasion that would elicit such a boisterous commotion here, but I can't come up with one. Maybe my mind is just drawing a blank. Any thoughts?</div>
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Moving along to these bars. These bars are <i>good</i>. Really good. Look at those bites of chocolate peanut butter heaven!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYjjBv8_NTzFJVeC6hgTHupndX7X395FTQaHEcqDPU_2FUz5qHXWbhya1noU53VMBTU9ZvErb25JW1AgcNnKLM5gsdRgCVbyqs5MHRohmW-p5Zw5Bb217RuhyYWcx7tFMuZyCBfi-1Cn4Y/s1600/IMG_0376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYjjBv8_NTzFJVeC6hgTHupndX7X395FTQaHEcqDPU_2FUz5qHXWbhya1noU53VMBTU9ZvErb25JW1AgcNnKLM5gsdRgCVbyqs5MHRohmW-p5Zw5Bb217RuhyYWcx7tFMuZyCBfi-1Cn4Y/s640/IMG_0376.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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These no bake bars are your sweet solution to the insufferable heat wave. I'm sure you could guess that my oven has been on regularly throughout the summer, but I was so pleased to come across this recipe because they don't require heating up the kitchen <i>and </i>they're so simple. Melt some butter, crush up some graham crackers, mix those with peanut butter and powdered sugar, press into a pan, cover with an easy chocolate peanut butter coating. The hardest part is waiting for them to firm up in the refrigerator. These bars could be served at any number of occasions. Cookouts, parties, mid-afternoon snacking are a few ideas. A chocolate peanut butter bite to celebrate the royal baby? Sure, why not?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7J1oP2PhXPm5Jqet5da56T7uQGu-HL7EQ2QrRj4V9CWvi-ELYeB7P0jhFIWdhKngG76fesFq_Fv7eWhwtu7ec0-Vf9pL42WcyQmZxd9N6FLmia_pr4UGtS1IziJTqzZ8ksxTNAN1x6ul/s1600/IMG_0379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7J1oP2PhXPm5Jqet5da56T7uQGu-HL7EQ2QrRj4V9CWvi-ELYeB7P0jhFIWdhKngG76fesFq_Fv7eWhwtu7ec0-Vf9pL42WcyQmZxd9N6FLmia_pr4UGtS1IziJTqzZ8ksxTNAN1x6ul/s640/IMG_0379.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>No Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Bars</b><br />
<b><br /></b>1/2 cup butter, melted<br />
1 cup graham cracker crumbs (8 full sheets)<br />
1 cup powdered sugar<br />
3/4 cup+ 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter<br />
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips<br />
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Line an 8x8 pan with aluminum foil and set aside<br />
In a large bowl, mix together butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and peanut butter until combined<br />
Press peanut butter mixture into bottom of your prepared pan<br />
In a small bowl, combine remaining 2 tbsp of peanut butter and chocolate chips and microwave for 45 seconds<br />
Remove bowl from microwave and stir until smooth<br />
Evenly spread chocolate mixture over peanut butter layer<br />
Refrigerate bars for at least two hours before cutting and serving<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<i>Source <a href="http://sallysbakingaddiction.com/2013/07/02/no-bake-reeses-peanut-butter-bars/">Sally's Baking Addiction</a></i><br />
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<em>Linked at: </em><a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/07/tuesday-talent-show-94/"><em>Tuesday Talent Show</em></a>, <i><a href="http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2013/07/time-to-sparkle/">Time to Sparkle</a>, <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/07/24/whats-cookin-wednesday-29/">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a>, <a href="http://www.momontimeout.com/2013/07/your-creative-timeout-party-no-91/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:%20momontimeout/zXtr%20(Mom%20On%20Timeout)">Your Creative Timeout</a></i><br />
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<br />Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-69695747135549773542013-07-19T07:49:00.000-04:002013-07-19T21:02:31.933-04:00friday favorites<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh my lorrrrd, this week was a hot one! I'm told that a cold front is coming through this weekend, and I am thrilled for its arrival. We played kickball yesterday as a team building activity and it felt like the humidity was suffocating me. I'm not sure that weather in the 80's should be classified as a cold front, but I will gladly take it if I don't have to see 100 degrees on my car dashboard again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This weekend's plans include one of my favorite guilty pleasures. I'm going to see Taylor Swift. I accept your judgment. Think what you will, but her music is catchy and fun and I can't wait to rock out next to an eight year old. Other than that, we'll just be beatin' the heat!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On to my favorite finds from around the web this week!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite indulgence: </b><a href="http://lifeloveandsugar.com/2013/07/11/mint-oreo-brownie-ice-cream-cake/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Mint Oreo Brownie Ice Cream Cake</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I was just saying at work this week how much I love brownie ice cream sundaes. This cake combines some of the best flavors and desserts into the perfect summer indulgence.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihMKuUhYzdzMYLiLuQ_CIqxhZBuk3MtOu2cNUMEx1rPtcFzm1ilOSDvMLA6HzFAqWELfC65vesBwDUZBnNYRklgz-NE6MlzMYLa8R69RurxVNs3y8mxo6yyD4iPY_cCXi7j3eR3F2p9BTj/s1600/mint_oreo_ice_cream_cake1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihMKuUhYzdzMYLiLuQ_CIqxhZBuk3MtOu2cNUMEx1rPtcFzm1ilOSDvMLA6HzFAqWELfC65vesBwDUZBnNYRklgz-NE6MlzMYLa8R69RurxVNs3y8mxo6yyD4iPY_cCXi7j3eR3F2p9BTj/s640/mint_oreo_ice_cream_cake1.png" width="492" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite meal: </b><a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2013/07/easy-grilled-maple-dijon-salmon-with-bacon/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Grilled Maple Dijon Salmon with Bacon</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Salmon is one of my favorite fish, so it's quite upsetting that I married a man who doesn't care for it. I'm convinced that he enjoys anything that includes bacon, so I have a feeling that this is a delicious way to put salmon back into our dinner rotation. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNX6dneyWtDGsUOF9-_DCSj7KJmmNg391mxDdYVKbq1ewR2lrXY7xWd_sW-fhB3elD60dp53VqGOEEs0I0j1-noI1tgQTa8xHnd0pIndOB0oyVv862JNOqgP_XAgn0yvFT6FAqZXr-Yo-w/s1600/mmsalmon-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNX6dneyWtDGsUOF9-_DCSj7KJmmNg391mxDdYVKbq1ewR2lrXY7xWd_sW-fhB3elD60dp53VqGOEEs0I0j1-noI1tgQTa8xHnd0pIndOB0oyVv862JNOqgP_XAgn0yvFT6FAqZXr-Yo-w/s640/mmsalmon-3.jpg" width="514" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite Look: </b><a href="http://breakfastatyurmans.tumblr.com/post/50594685536" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Summer Comfort</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I love how this look is soft and dainty, but the light sweater adds a bit of casual comfort to the outfit.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiEpkKZun3doezdbTZHZ14Ev9lixcriALObbSk9nPNhRfN5Xob0cBudyB9DLiV0FxdCzYeLCeZSQ5oOolvY_i-CH0QBI2pD44w3SFXHNq_e1Ka6-TBka2sz0eiX7fBREmdFwZqTlPGdMDO/s1600/tumblr_mmfsj6dcyG1qbya53o1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiEpkKZun3doezdbTZHZ14Ev9lixcriALObbSk9nPNhRfN5Xob0cBudyB9DLiV0FxdCzYeLCeZSQ5oOolvY_i-CH0QBI2pD44w3SFXHNq_e1Ka6-TBka2sz0eiX7fBREmdFwZqTlPGdMDO/s640/tumblr_mmfsj6dcyG1qbya53o1_1280.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite DIY: </b><a href="http://picky-palate.com/2011/06/30/chocolate-peanut-butter-sandwiches-from-disneyland/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Disney World's Chocolate Peanut Butter Sandwiches</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I've only been to Disney World once in the last 10 years, but their dessert is something that I remember very well (shocking). These sandwiches are a homemade version of one of my favorite confectionary creations found only within the gates of Disney. Chocolatey, peanut buttery, graham crackery (?)- perfection. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNMdrtw5tVKXXZGOKFoiHxbZnQdfQ4HFSU-0XpCdp2zJdqhZgTXXYx62jxrOY_x2qsOuPgt4uLZcC6t2pOzA8H3qtZmvM8smlfnFjAKusVA7yns8mrzMmUopqFy1YPca0i9JLXQ-2ZEq2/s1600/20110628-113024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNMdrtw5tVKXXZGOKFoiHxbZnQdfQ4HFSU-0XpCdp2zJdqhZgTXXYx62jxrOY_x2qsOuPgt4uLZcC6t2pOzA8H3qtZmvM8smlfnFjAKusVA7yns8mrzMmUopqFy1YPca0i9JLXQ-2ZEq2/s400/20110628-113024.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite pup: </b><a href="http://prettystuff.tumblr.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Shopping Pup</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I'm not one to condone dressing dogs in clothing, but this dog was born to wear that hat, right?</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq9zvo5VVa8BOUg9ccojQyVsiN_Kn_dQvlFzghAJWx9isZIRNKsfs-R8VHtsy2TExXJjCvfrMSQxujT9ZXTVS2QjPFk8S7HaP0_QOWPi2Q9T3zixdI60Sg3bBqOcdGQHorvA_ASxtq7ivo/s1600/51d472ffcd2a52adb2f75d3522ec69bc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq9zvo5VVa8BOUg9ccojQyVsiN_Kn_dQvlFzghAJWx9isZIRNKsfs-R8VHtsy2TExXJjCvfrMSQxujT9ZXTVS2QjPFk8S7HaP0_QOWPi2Q9T3zixdI60Sg3bBqOcdGQHorvA_ASxtq7ivo/s640/51d472ffcd2a52adb2f75d3522ec69bc.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite funny: </b><a href="http://themetapicture.com/possibly-the-greatest-photo-of-all-time/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Royal Muggles</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. If you didn't already love these three, then surely this photo sways you.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPEUQ-nJNwKJm3xqLjq5VneYUoGzW4IzpUCp5CCCEl1C1pP7huiYgGK8J1zUuBzQmr0I8kPpAgL4kG4MA2q6V36UM_xi7GNCBwUDkzlESc0nTAc7pCcLfnV6XtH4HU3CHpWQcVSg8s2Dr-/s1600/funny-Prince-Harry-William-night-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPEUQ-nJNwKJm3xqLjq5VneYUoGzW4IzpUCp5CCCEl1C1pP7huiYgGK8J1zUuBzQmr0I8kPpAgL4kG4MA2q6V36UM_xi7GNCBwUDkzlESc0nTAc7pCcLfnV6XtH4HU3CHpWQcVSg8s2Dr-/s640/funny-Prince-Harry-William-night-party.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite bite: </b><a href="http://www.girlversusdough.com/2013/07/05/peach-gorgonzola-grilled-pizza/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Peach Gorgonzola Grilled Pizza</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I love seasonal adaptations on classics. This is a wonderful way to incorporate seasonal flavors and take advantage of grilling weather. Drizzled with balsamic vinegar? One bite will not suffice.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyFhg6cSe9oovkSg-dLGbmNZ4eNOm8Mrd_cUOo9WNNGi1okDxlFWHC6rWu24litmGoJeAZYEA3T02DIMFOalKtRf8ge-yAzZGZLucC79pXdd0D2f9c3cs8SbRBHVK_4ZnIOsJQGlitHoG9/s1600/9213369562_2dd4d64d04_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyFhg6cSe9oovkSg-dLGbmNZ4eNOm8Mrd_cUOo9WNNGi1okDxlFWHC6rWu24litmGoJeAZYEA3T02DIMFOalKtRf8ge-yAzZGZLucC79pXdd0D2f9c3cs8SbRBHVK_4ZnIOsJQGlitHoG9/s640/9213369562_2dd4d64d04_z.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite dessert: </b><a href="http://www.bakersroyale.com/cakes/strawberry-tuxedo-cake/comment-page-1/#comment-720368" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Strawberry Tuxedo Cake</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. For someone who really doesn't care for fruit in my dessert, </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">as </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">stated in my post about <a href="http://runsonsundae.blogspot.com/2013/07/blueberry-crumb-bars.html">blueberry crumb bars</a>, I was surprised how much this cake made me swoon. Maybe it's because it's so hot outside, but strawberries and chocolate sound like the most refreshing flavor pairing. I know that this cake is worth the effort. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Fb5JwEyQZlZ1YvJZ5bc1qiL7zuz6ntSRWs3Ppo219ZCYQkImLcNtBAtMyj1s7_2QCJApXzTmFA7_ihcSkTQ4M2Uo84IXQVQ17xBvTyGa5SIiXCDhyDhNEDtDARKWGI4RNu7ROPngypnH/s1600/Strawberry-Tuxedo-Cake-from-BakersRoyale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Fb5JwEyQZlZ1YvJZ5bc1qiL7zuz6ntSRWs3Ppo219ZCYQkImLcNtBAtMyj1s7_2QCJApXzTmFA7_ihcSkTQ4M2Uo84IXQVQ17xBvTyGa5SIiXCDhyDhNEDtDARKWGI4RNu7ROPngypnH/s640/Strawberry-Tuxedo-Cake-from-BakersRoyale.jpg" width="440" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite decor: </b><a href="http://homeideamaker.com/2013/02/16/long-box-of-dried-or-faux-hydrangeas-under-flat-screen-so-simple-but-so-pretty-could-also-work-along-a-mantle-or-dresser-or-casual-dining-room-table/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Long Box of Dried Hydrangeas</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I think that this is a beautiful simple idea to dress up a plain area of the home. This could work well along a mantle or hall table.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv9ExuXwEEcU0JO1kCE-Ah_aKgCvS6nYF24T0uMD0zhZjFQm8uWtVScgmcyi3WI-dCXyoB6jQ-MUsZ02g5FDOqOXfo8iwCAQduLaiLnV8pMeRcVoX3tJACtF5li_TG0UqyW0NhxIvuxatH/s1600/bc11f281a4ed40fe169ef0ff20a02f50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv9ExuXwEEcU0JO1kCE-Ah_aKgCvS6nYF24T0uMD0zhZjFQm8uWtVScgmcyi3WI-dCXyoB6jQ-MUsZ02g5FDOqOXfo8iwCAQduLaiLnV8pMeRcVoX3tJACtF5li_TG0UqyW0NhxIvuxatH/s640/bc11f281a4ed40fe169ef0ff20a02f50.jpg" width="425" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite quote: </b><a href="http://aestheticaspirations.tumblr.com/post/46199278004/image-from-sstellarr" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Don't Worry</a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. This was a bit of an emotional week here, so it's always nice to receive little reminders. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have a great weekend everyone!</span></div>
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Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-14618399814935544002013-07-15T19:55:00.002-04:002013-07-18T07:21:28.927-04:00frozen s'mores <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've never been a fan of camping. I suppose that I've never been <i>real </i>camping, but the camping I have experienced was close enough and that's what I'm basing this statement on. Bugs, sleeping on the floor, no modern day comforts. Count me out.<br />
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I do, however, love the idea of roasting marshmallows over a <i>camp</i>fire. I'll do many things that I don't like in the name of food. No surprise, I'm sure.</div>
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One of my favorite summer activities from my childhood was gathering at my neighbor's bonfire pit to make s'mores. It was buggy and hot, but nothing beats the flavor combination of toasted marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUzjgR4k4Zf1hKgxrMwBw4f-ytJzn4fVF3YWfW1Mi3l0xVR6w2JJsl1FTSyBUdQ8u4F_sWMdUmZNicbLwkR8m5n6NbzHBHzofQcnlN-vNT3wVsmCxpOSMpG96wd7ALtZeLlMud40YESxhc/s1600/IMG_0237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUzjgR4k4Zf1hKgxrMwBw4f-ytJzn4fVF3YWfW1Mi3l0xVR6w2JJsl1FTSyBUdQ8u4F_sWMdUmZNicbLwkR8m5n6NbzHBHzofQcnlN-vNT3wVsmCxpOSMpG96wd7ALtZeLlMud40YESxhc/s640/IMG_0237.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't think I've enjoyed a s'more since my firefly catching days, so I was very excited when I came across this variation on the traditional s'mores. This is one of the easiest desserts to put together and the outcome is truly delicious. I brought them to a Fourth of July party the other week and they were a hit. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivr-UO57iEIcAr6FA-764XeLKAuHJN9wVJ4y1e_WjMTRsj34Aqk0ETwzaMzmyP9J6CqEKY9qxD1ThGlwrd5BRpRXA3ZLvZ7jfbPqLW7tb31sQXkW2SIoVuhSPaiKcuf7t-4ueLEB-7tIlD/s1600/IMG_0244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivr-UO57iEIcAr6FA-764XeLKAuHJN9wVJ4y1e_WjMTRsj34Aqk0ETwzaMzmyP9J6CqEKY9qxD1ThGlwrd5BRpRXA3ZLvZ7jfbPqLW7tb31sQXkW2SIoVuhSPaiKcuf7t-4ueLEB-7tIlD/s640/IMG_0244.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Basically you cover one side of a graham crack with mini marshmallows then toast the marshmallows under a broiler until lightly browned. You take another graham cracker and sandwich it with the toasted marshmallow covered graham cracker. Then you spread melted chocolate over the top and sides of the marshmallow sandwich and place in the freezer to harden. That's it. So simple and so tasty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_EjKocUkOr3lvM_w73dHOe4k9vArLE2_0cdVwkKcp4I_UnGG-XROJRppx_YcKplL-yy6RTiVCAyV8X3KWSssdw8GAndT0YyWpEwPCulbAF25EjRD_TSZhLobyiM4cj_i0ddS8ublzREcq/s1600/IMG_0255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_EjKocUkOr3lvM_w73dHOe4k9vArLE2_0cdVwkKcp4I_UnGG-XROJRppx_YcKplL-yy6RTiVCAyV8X3KWSssdw8GAndT0YyWpEwPCulbAF25EjRD_TSZhLobyiM4cj_i0ddS8ublzREcq/s640/IMG_0255.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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What dessert screams "summer" more than a s'more? These are the perfect summer treat, but I don't doubt I'll find an excuse to make them during the cooler months. My only word of caution is to watch your marshmallows closely under the broiler. I may or may not have caused a fire in my oven during my first attempt at toasting marshmallows. Worth it. Make these.<br />
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<b>Frozen S'mores</b><br />
<b><br /></b>6 graham crackers<br />
3 oz semi sweet chocolate chips<br />
Mini marshmallows<br />
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Preheat your oven broiler and adjust top rack so that it's in the middle of the oven<br />
Line a baking sheet that fits in your freezer with parchment paper<br />
While oven is heating, melt chocolate chips in microwave by heating in 30 second increments and stirring until completely smooth<br />
Place three graham crackers on your baking sheet and top each graham cracker with mini marshmallows (enough to cover entire cracker)<br />
Place baking sheet under broiler and broil marshmallows until toasty brown, about 2-3 minutes*<br />
Immediately place remaining graham crackers on top of toasted marshmallows to make a s'mores sandwich<br />
Spread a thin layer of chocolate on top of each graham cracker and the sides<br />
Place in freeze for at least thirty minutes for chocolate coating to harden<br />
Cut each sandwich into halves or fourths to serve<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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*Marshmallows easily go from toasted to burned, so watch marshmallows very closely while broiling<br />
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<i>Source: <a href="http://www.marinmamacooks.com/2013/06/frozen-smores/">Mama Marin Cooks</a></i><i></i><br />
<i>Linked at: <a href="http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2013/07/time-to-sparkle-18/">Time to Sparkle</a>, <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/07/tuesday-talent-show-93/">Tuesday Talent Show</a>, <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/07/17/whats-cookin-wednesday-28/">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a>, <a href="http://www.momontimeout.com/2013/07/your-creative-timeout-party-no-90/">Your Creative Timeout</a></i><br />
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<br />Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-87385364388059565782013-07-10T19:19:00.000-04:002013-07-10T19:22:34.686-04:00baked banana doughnuts with vanilla glaze<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Does anyone else have multiple gift cards in their wallets? While I appreciate gift cards because they allow my exceptionally indecisive self to choose a practical gift on my own timeline, I’m almost never able to find something that spends the entire amount. I know, me and my problems again. What I’m getting at is that I’m left carrying around gift cards with unknown balances that I eventually forget about. Sound familiar?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I had been toying with the idea of buying a doughnut pan for quite a while when I finally decided that I <i>really</i> needed one. I rummaged through my wallet to see if I had any worthwhile gift cards and luckily, I found an old Crate and Barrel one. I’m sure I could have forfeited the $10 to buy one sans gift card, but now my doughnut pan feels infinitely more special because it’s <i>free</i>. I love free things.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAOQfNb3gDDA7q1otO4ECjo3wJMD8abjNgIagAxrhJKExQ9y-ahmi_G-wZx4aEPMspVlad2AyRzzxP39I4erkqam95OBmhxN20anbHmyml-zM-0IFDgheUcWM-SvnQBmocMEQPkop_N7-/s1600/IMG_0273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAOQfNb3gDDA7q1otO4ECjo3wJMD8abjNgIagAxrhJKExQ9y-ahmi_G-wZx4aEPMspVlad2AyRzzxP39I4erkqam95OBmhxN20anbHmyml-zM-0IFDgheUcWM-SvnQBmocMEQPkop_N7-/s640/IMG_0273.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">These banana doughnuts were delicious. The vanilla glaze quite didn’t set up with a crackly sugar coating like I expected it to (less liquid next time), but it still added a nice layer of sweetness to the doughnut. The doughnut itself is soft, moist, and very flavorful. The glaze soaked into the doughnuts as they sat in our tupperwear container and I actually preferred them this way. I love food that becomes more flavorful as it ages. My husband loved these doughnuts and he’s not one to give a lot of feedback. So, for my first attempt at baked doughnuts, I’ll deem these a success. I highly suggest you invest in a doughnut pan because your life could use more doughnuts. I'm sure of it.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJifmaNgEoniA7pDhyphenhyphenDEhkQ2fKG1SzyXMQIB5n4V1BXssUdsq2Vo7eSaHTftW-wxlwkEM3_bM3Gw0FPYTv2noZi1Tw_nf-ljzCMy59yZwAxJ7X-bcpeQuoJdESMGsuAHmfEChqSoHlHRWJ/s1600/IMG_0332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJifmaNgEoniA7pDhyphenhyphenDEhkQ2fKG1SzyXMQIB5n4V1BXssUdsq2Vo7eSaHTftW-wxlwkEM3_bM3Gw0FPYTv2noZi1Tw_nf-ljzCMy59yZwAxJ7X-bcpeQuoJdESMGsuAHmfEChqSoHlHRWJ/s640/IMG_0332.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Banana Baked Doughnuts with Vanilla Glaze</span></b><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Doughnuts:<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup flour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">¼ cup + 2 tbsp granulated sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tsp baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">½ tsp cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">½ tsp salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">¼ cup buttermilk* <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 ripe banana, mashed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 egg, beaten<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tsp vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">½ tbsp butter, melted<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Vanilla Glaze:</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup powdered sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1-2 tbsp milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tsp vanilla extract</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 325 degrees<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lightly grease donut pan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mix in buttermilk, banana, egg, vanilla, and butter until just combined<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Spoon mixture into pan until wells are about 2/3 full<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Allow doughnuts to completely cool before drizzling with glaze<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">To make glaze, measure powdered sugar into small bowl then stir in milk and vanilla until reaches desired consistency (add more sugar to make it thicker)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Drizzle doughnuts with glaze over a cooling rack so that excess glaze drips off </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Allow glazed doughnuts to sit on cooling rack until glaze has firmed up before serving or storing</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">*If you don't have buttermilk, you can use add 1 tsp white vinegar to regular milk</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Doughnuts source: <a href="http://sorumblyinmytumbly.blogspot.com/2013/06/baked-banana-donuts-with-brown-butter.html">Rumbly in My Tumbly</a></span></i>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-10913105566957373162013-07-08T07:45:00.000-04:002013-07-10T19:00:16.182-04:00blueberry crumb bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I'm not really a fruity dessert kind of girl. I love fruit, so I'm not sure why I have such an aversion to eating them in dessert, but I'll always pass over a peach cobbler for anything chocolate. I sometimes wonder why restaurants put so many fruit options on their dessert menu instead of more chocolate creations. My mother-in-law always orders key lime pie no matter what rich chocolate selections are offered. It's something that I'll never understand.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHm9NLsedlh2VJGi5clgdcRtbovfYOA0ktxh_r2wCB1_iSudQtx01mj5Ab8La2oEY7t8fHFLqSVszctEMlBt4QSt0-IGA1Of2oxH_zoZUwU53HEPaZggi2bMGHfEQqLXOF_j9SZJkDax-h/s1600/IMG_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHm9NLsedlh2VJGi5clgdcRtbovfYOA0ktxh_r2wCB1_iSudQtx01mj5Ab8La2oEY7t8fHFLqSVszctEMlBt4QSt0-IGA1Of2oxH_zoZUwU53HEPaZggi2bMGHfEQqLXOF_j9SZJkDax-h/s640/IMG_0211.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I was trying to decide on how I should use the leftover blueberries from my <a href="http://runsonsundae.blogspot.com/2013/07/cheesecake-stuffed-strawberries.html">cheesecake stuffed strawberries</a>, these blueberry crumb bars I had bookmarked a while back immediately came to mind.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIqvPcwhujPxfSReMdZ-kV1oMxDqz_6hQPiDmRjm0e36Qtdp4ry-wvOCGUmWrpOK4viPQoFlzf15dG3iVmRBkHQQexH6VbvMJhyGVbS9ap8YJR-uh2pz6hyphenhyphenFFeRtdj1E18yedN423ePls/s1600/IMG_0218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIqvPcwhujPxfSReMdZ-kV1oMxDqz_6hQPiDmRjm0e36Qtdp4ry-wvOCGUmWrpOK4viPQoFlzf15dG3iVmRBkHQQexH6VbvMJhyGVbS9ap8YJR-uh2pz6hyphenhyphenFFeRtdj1E18yedN423ePls/s640/IMG_0218.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I normally associate fruity crumb bars with the holidays because it's the only time of the year that my mom bakes her signature cranberry bars. I always make room on my chocolate-heavy dessert plate for those bars. They're so incredibly rich, buttery, and sweet. Much like these blueberry crumb bars.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIq9rdRMJTBZs4A1EMNawDlYl2ucFZt6hWoBziDeTUUgWFIHkhAkqoh4k5RK8S1wDtEKTk1BlZ4T9oJXqjazdfZyUcnoCQmvl0MR4VyXMZuZBNLlarPY_nZDOq-2iOxYlqWBc00R6Avdf0/s1600/IMG_0209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIq9rdRMJTBZs4A1EMNawDlYl2ucFZt6hWoBziDeTUUgWFIHkhAkqoh4k5RK8S1wDtEKTk1BlZ4T9oJXqjazdfZyUcnoCQmvl0MR4VyXMZuZBNLlarPY_nZDOq-2iOxYlqWBc00R6Avdf0/s640/IMG_0209.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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These bars have a sweet buttery shortbread crust that is layered with a sugary blueberry filling and shortbread crumbles. Each bite has the perfect ratio of blueberries that are still plump and juicy to those that burst during baking so that their sweet juices softened the crust. These were perfection. I was so satisfied with these bars that I didn't even need chocolate as post-dessert dessert (a common meal in my household).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2AaRDHKS7Ae48M6EZS3QazaIhWCIWx3bDG2FVmNz7WJCeLns3HfYloNIvfk9-4H1lZQlDvw1c1RhZZar1RvmhRTnyKnzGlVWhhT0h_zi31Xl1L6fkjYHp1Oh875AOSPNMH8mT1UnNywf/s1600/IMG_0219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2AaRDHKS7Ae48M6EZS3QazaIhWCIWx3bDG2FVmNz7WJCeLns3HfYloNIvfk9-4H1lZQlDvw1c1RhZZar1RvmhRTnyKnzGlVWhhT0h_zi31Xl1L6fkjYHp1Oh875AOSPNMH8mT1UnNywf/s640/IMG_0219.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know that these seem labor intensive, but they really are so easy to bake. The most challenging part is making the shortbread crust because you have to cut cold butter into a sugared flour mixture; however, you can easily use your hands to assist and your crust comes together very simply. These are a delightful summer treat to use your fresh blueberries, but I wouldn't mind enjoying a bar or three over the holiday season.<br />
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<b>Blueberry Crumb Bars</b><br />
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1 1/2 cups all purpose flour<br />
3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided<br />
1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/8 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp lemon zest<br />
1 large egg yolk<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/2 cup salted butter, chilled and cut into cubes<br />
2 tsp cornstarch<br />
1 tbsp lemon juice<br />
1 cups fresh blueberries, at room temperature<br />
11/2 tbsp sugar<br />
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees<br />
Butter an 8x8 baking dish, set aside<br />
In a large bowl, whisk to ether flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest<br />
In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolk and vanilla<br />
Add egg mixture and cubed butter to flour mixture and use a fork or pastry cutter (or your finger tips) to cut mixture together until it resembles coarse crumbles<br />
Gently press 2/3 of mixture into prepared baking dish<br />
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In separate mixing bowl, whisk together remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar and cornstarch<br />
Stirn in lemon juice then add blueberries and toss mixture to evenly coat<br />
Pour and spread blueberries evenly over crust<br />
Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over berry layer<br />
Sprinkle 1 1/2 tbsp of sugar evenly over topping<br />
Bake for 38-42 minutes until top is golden brown<br />
Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares*<br />
Store in airtight container for up to 1 week<br />
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*Note: I brought my bars to a party, so I was unable to try my preferred serving method, but I'm sure that these would be delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream<br />
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<i>Source: <a href="http://www.cookingclassy.com/2012/06/blueberry-crumb-bars/">Cooking Classy</a></i><br />
<i>Linked at: <a href="http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2013/07/time-to-sparkle-17/">Time to Sparkle</a>, <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/07/tuesday-talent-show-92/">Tuesday Talent Show</a>, <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/07/10/whats-cookin-wednesday-27/">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a></i>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-77040231955580764062013-07-05T07:41:00.001-04:002013-07-05T08:53:00.073-04:00friday favorites<span style="font-family: Arial;">How is everyone surviving the heat? Yesterday Kent and I made the misguided decision to walk to our friend's Fourth of July party. It's about a mile walk, so not difficult, but the heat was oppressive. We thought that the breeze from the harbor would make the trek manageable, but we arrived completely doused in sweat. My biggest grievance with this </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">city is that parking is impossible, so you're forced to make poor choices such as walking uphill through 93 degree heat with frozen s'mores (recipe next week!) and alcohol. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Our weekend plans are still up in the air right now, but I expect for us to remain indoors except when outdoor exposure is necessary. The next few weekends are busy for us, so I have no problem with a whole lot of nothing on the schedule. This sounds like a <i>good</i> decision. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">This week's favorite finds from around the web (click on gray hyperlink for source)!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong>Favorite indulgence: </strong><a href="http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/smore-doughnut-sandwich-with-easy-homemade-beer-marshmallows/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">S'more Doughnut Sandwiches</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; line-height: 18px;"><strong>.</strong> I actually had another doughnut selected for this week's favorite indulgence, but then I saw that this treat takes indulgence to a whole separate level and I had to share this creation. So decadent. So perfect.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpWIBoSERJOI021Xzjz5c95FtqJ1sNR4kuuBliTwAlOXzG8FTc_2Wu_E62LU2NZsdAxm1uINcAPJzBhJS7CWN6cjITxJ7uYzeApu0G2v8xkz75Ez7bWFsdtVMi-8fKB01SUjwu3kJqRXSD/s1200/Smore-Doughnut-Sandwich-With-Easy-Homemade-Beer-Marshmallows-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpWIBoSERJOI021Xzjz5c95FtqJ1sNR4kuuBliTwAlOXzG8FTc_2Wu_E62LU2NZsdAxm1uINcAPJzBhJS7CWN6cjITxJ7uYzeApu0G2v8xkz75Ez7bWFsdtVMi-8fKB01SUjwu3kJqRXSD/s640/Smore-Doughnut-Sandwich-With-Easy-Homemade-Beer-Marshmallows-5.jpg" width="426" /></a></span></span></div>
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</span><strong>Favorite meal</strong></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong>: </strong><a href="http://www.aspicyperspective.com/2013/06/ahi-tuna-burgers-grilled-pineapple.html" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Ahi Tuna Burgers with Grilled Pineapple</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>. </strong>Does this not sound like the most delightful summer dinner?</span> </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-f3dzWFhVjfpaCQF0hbTHBPXJPVdbEE5Ce3a6G_XF-XQ9M4gWs-JSG-j22e4ukaZcyjMlUfUDpwpF0PTD0NhP-EvHVmjvy3sqVSLeqO9FAYNJMrkPXRV4cr_nokcGMfwAJCq3Ye50FK0X/s900/IMG_0551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-f3dzWFhVjfpaCQF0hbTHBPXJPVdbEE5Ce3a6G_XF-XQ9M4gWs-JSG-j22e4ukaZcyjMlUfUDpwpF0PTD0NhP-EvHVmjvy3sqVSLeqO9FAYNJMrkPXRV4cr_nokcGMfwAJCq3Ye50FK0X/s640/IMG_0551.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Favorite funny</span>: </span></strong><a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/maxb7/things-millennial-girls-love-ak7l" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Things Millennial Girls Love</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Spot. On. Except for a few, of course.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxCkJDb7jsNYmhTm6kK_0V1yL_AyhUlwxwdMSe_0v-vvvM0jsL71NYqVrzsP9dGWg8jAFeryuYLTfqFLqlx_yD-DdamdkeXlrmP_6KR-XTvJBEJtlBKhJ_LurhHnov94kBvrxwKSUROZ2/s500/anigif_enhanced-buzz-19583-1370104131-7_preview.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxCkJDb7jsNYmhTm6kK_0V1yL_AyhUlwxwdMSe_0v-vvvM0jsL71NYqVrzsP9dGWg8jAFeryuYLTfqFLqlx_yD-DdamdkeXlrmP_6KR-XTvJBEJtlBKhJ_LurhHnov94kBvrxwKSUROZ2/s640/anigif_enhanced-buzz-19583-1370104131-7_preview.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Favorite bite</span>: </span></strong><a href="http://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/2012/08/smashed-avocado-tomato-basil-bruschetta/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Smashed Avocado Tomato Basil Bruschetta</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. As I told you <a href="http://runsonsundae.blogspot.com/2013/06/friday-favorites.html">last week</a>, I'm going through an avocado phase where I'm incorporating it into at least one of my daily meals. I had this for dinner the other night (with a side of my other recent obsession- Costco's tortilla chips), and these little creations are amazing. There is so much freshness and flavor packed into each bite. And they come together in less than 10 minutes. You'll thank me later for this easy healthy fix to a last minute entertaining idea or snack hankering!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHCvNORFcBoS1sM1SLuGXfTFIodrvtrz3q8A14gs_jiQix-8wHZRzn-pNBPrk6I8cB3Yl8vwSUBsFMnc22SgG_X9B8UVK-os98JTbJ0OgK1KxTXMN_clY9cxTZ4ttREXdlDE_NZ9FnglkL/s1024/IMG_4846-679x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHCvNORFcBoS1sM1SLuGXfTFIodrvtrz3q8A14gs_jiQix-8wHZRzn-pNBPrk6I8cB3Yl8vwSUBsFMnc22SgG_X9B8UVK-os98JTbJ0OgK1KxTXMN_clY9cxTZ4ttREXdlDE_NZ9FnglkL/s640/IMG_4846-679x1024.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Favorite look:</span> </span></strong><a href="http://livydahling.tumblr.com/post/29805214301" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Cut Offs</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">. </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Having just turned 26, I more cognizant of age appropriate attire. I'm pretty sure that I can still get away with shorts of this length for the right </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">occasion</span><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">, </span>but I find myself wearing shorts less and less. In any case, this is a cute look for summer.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSs_y_wdH1akuTGdsK_qEH7ozM3Cr2spqyA0xOhjJFzSv_eOthtWG4FxWt4cWmvb5XOtfcSxIuxOMYGIwQWCcB-z-lF-X80AE9K2PXI3Y9tX8EGE3MKTXQwv2SdOt2WSuvHDhEeBmzIjgu/s500/tumblr_lw3op3P26H1qd36rxo1_500.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSs_y_wdH1akuTGdsK_qEH7ozM3Cr2spqyA0xOhjJFzSv_eOthtWG4FxWt4cWmvb5XOtfcSxIuxOMYGIwQWCcB-z-lF-X80AE9K2PXI3Y9tX8EGE3MKTXQwv2SdOt2WSuvHDhEeBmzIjgu/s640/tumblr_lw3op3P26H1qd36rxo1_500.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Favorite bread:</span> </span></strong><a href="http://joythebaker.com/2013/06/homemade-hot-dog-buns/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Homemade Hot Dog Buns</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. <span style="font-size: small;">If you know me, then you know that I don't like hot dogs, but I <em>do</em> like bread. I'm certain that I could find something to fill these deliciously seasoned pillows of carby goodness with.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaTOKmvic00HaaC5q6LeVDQ4lFNLpnPFhhNbToS0_efnGtmUflSZcljd7gMo5Py5MdWXWEXUKV1f6OQs5Jeh2wpqHRKg4Kr8tMpJk_3SNURLPpQXZJe1O3j4dcKbuK57jYALy_NovAB4-q/s800/9174586599_176b0600ee_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaTOKmvic00HaaC5q6LeVDQ4lFNLpnPFhhNbToS0_efnGtmUflSZcljd7gMo5Py5MdWXWEXUKV1f6OQs5Jeh2wpqHRKg4Kr8tMpJk_3SNURLPpQXZJe1O3j4dcKbuK57jYALy_NovAB4-q/s640/9174586599_176b0600ee_c.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Favorite DIY:</span> </span></strong><a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/incredibly-simple-photoshop-hacks-everyone-should-know#_a5y_p=674408%EF%BB%BF" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Photoshop Your Child with Their Artwork</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Technology is so sophisticated! The link to this site explains how Photoshop can merge a picture of your child with a picture of their artwork. I'm not sure how many pieces of a child's artwork are worthy of this effort, but this seems like a simple way to achieve a special photo. </span></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite remix: </b><a href="http://www.seededatthetable.com/2013/07/02/chocolate-chip-banana-bread-french-toast/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Chocolate Chip Banana Bread French Toast</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Just when I thought that chocolate chips were the only way to make banana bread better, here we fry it up and add syrup to create chocolate chip banana bread french toast. It's a mouthful to say as these are to eat <em>I'm sure. </em>Why yes, I would like a little powdered sugar sprinkled on top.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite read: </b><a href="http://afoodiestaysfit.com/2013/07/lifes-formula/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Life's Formula</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. A quick little read by <a href="http://afoodiestaysfit.com/">A Foodie Stays Fit</a> on being happy where you are now (click gray hyperlink for full post).</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQuNIK7Wh1OjxgvnI8ycJSueoNNbzgrfPzoUjTGY38_KQ6SIr2YfiONkyKYfyzSaFQ3VMgPkzNrAThz2YDEtXaqc2lhHFQcUSr9ZP2YFuXmp-Fxahgdk0ZeW36_Sa00l0KHdh-tOsdCOgB/s714/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQuNIK7Wh1OjxgvnI8ycJSueoNNbzgrfPzoUjTGY38_KQ6SIr2YfiONkyKYfyzSaFQ3VMgPkzNrAThz2YDEtXaqc2lhHFQcUSr9ZP2YFuXmp-Fxahgdk0ZeW36_Sa00l0KHdh-tOsdCOgB/s640/Capture.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite quote: </b><a href="http://hamptonroadshappyhour.com/happy-hour-humor-272" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Chocolate is Better</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Ok, so I have two favorite funnies this week. I normally leave you with a thought-provoking quote for the weekend, so I wanted to leave you with something a little lighter. Here is one of the greater truths in life. </span><br />
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Have a great weekend everyone!Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-41325410331042281622013-07-03T18:12:00.000-04:002013-07-03T22:37:37.059-04:00peanut butter swirl chocolate chip blondiesIs anyone else struggling to fill time in the evenings during the week now that shows are on summer hiatus? It feels like the nights are moving very slowly. I suppose that I'm not really complaining about having more idle time at home (man, can it be stressful churning through my DVR'd shows after work! I know, feel sorry for me), but I'm more annoyed that these grossly overpaid actors/hosts/reality show fools don't have to show up to work every day like I do.<br />
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Life isn't fair, so I've been drowning my evenings in excess sugar. These peanut butter chocolate chip blondies are a product of this.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_4s8UPDvq0WCTsXO3H8GhL1WAYRdOWjsFJpykDbiO2uFVV5llYkVk6jZvC_UgNImswNgYnVxbxXyGnrzf702cyts_uYh72-EXKVUtO1LM3BgUMRoITeXszPUzfJK6OnIWc3IP4FBgnixW/s1600/IMG_0068.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_4s8UPDvq0WCTsXO3H8GhL1WAYRdOWjsFJpykDbiO2uFVV5llYkVk6jZvC_UgNImswNgYnVxbxXyGnrzf702cyts_uYh72-EXKVUtO1LM3BgUMRoITeXszPUzfJK6OnIWc3IP4FBgnixW/s640/IMG_0068.tif" width="640" /></a></div>
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What we have here is a chocolate chip cookie in bar form that is packed with flavor. These are not lacking in the sugar department, but their sweetness is balanced with an incredible top layer of peanut butter that adds the perfect amount of saltiness to these rich bars. The peanut butter is swirled throughout the bars, so its delicious flavor is infused into each bite. This recipe comes from Averie Sunshine's new cookbook, <u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Peanut-Butter-Comfort-Breakfasts-Featuring/dp/1620876213">Peanut Butter Comfort</a></u>. She intentionally removed the leavening agents used in typical baked goods to make these bars thick and fudge-like. See above photo for proof. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7_3chPeSaL7wID_l0bnixXONOSDkJEYINGxJZm9Wj9V3wHcjtU1xbFRcbbu3MMNHls9krrPbIsquufoJazqt1nVyBB6axSkP1tvxi6SOYCCL3qu6zR6JWqlUtNTqfx8m6UBN893qmHJb6/s1600/IMG_0114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7_3chPeSaL7wID_l0bnixXONOSDkJEYINGxJZm9Wj9V3wHcjtU1xbFRcbbu3MMNHls9krrPbIsquufoJazqt1nVyBB6axSkP1tvxi6SOYCCL3qu6zR6JWqlUtNTqfx8m6UBN893qmHJb6/s640/IMG_0114.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The treats are extremely easy to put together. You can make them in one bowl in less than thirty minutes. If you are a peanut butter lover, then you will <i>love</i> these. Think of them as squares of peanut butter bliss.<br />
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<b>Peanut Butter Swirl Chocolate Chip Blondies</b><br />
<b><br /></b>1 stick of butter, melted<br />
1 cup of brown sugar, packed<br />
1 egg<br />
2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 cup all purpose flour<br />
1 cup chocolate chips<br />
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees<br />
Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with foil and spray with cooking spray<br />
In a medium bowl, stir together melted butter and sugar together until combined<br />
Add the egg and vanilla and stir together<br />
Add the flour and mix until just combined<br />
Gently fold in 3/4 cup of the chocolate chips<br />
Pour cookie dough into prepared pan in one even layer<br />
Melt peanut butter in microwave for 45 seconds then mix with spoon until smooth<br />
Drizzle melted peanut butter over dough in back and forth fashion<br />
Take a knife and swirl the peanut butter through the batter<br />
Bake for 25-28 minutes until edges pull away from the pan (peanut butter layer will firm up as blondies cool)<br />
Let blondies cool in pan completely before cutting into bars<br />
Store in airtight container for up to one week<br />
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<i>Source: <a href="http://bakeat350.blogspot.com/2013/06/peanut-butter-swirl-chocolate-chip-blondies.html">Peanut Butter Comfort</a></i><br />
<i>Linked at: <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/07/tuesday-talent-show-91/">Tuesday Talent Show</a></i><br />
<b><br /></b>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-80230465553596814112013-07-01T17:26:00.000-04:002013-07-03T10:57:45.080-04:00cheesecake stuffed strawberriesI must preface this post by saying that this is not my kind of holiday treat. The abundant selection of fresh fruit in the produce department is difficult to resist lately, but when faced with the choice between a sweet melon and a cake shaped like watermelon, I'm going with the cake.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQHik7fZJ-A47snzEODsf_j-fj96D4w62govyOkAwqvMn_buU88B-DuxtnHaJrXc8lUET7Ei7ARe3yTV9l0sV4ExUX14C_LWJ9CRnkh90MxPeWOr_u53SNBnzEOrBGgDVv4JMxK5UiOST/s1600/IMG_0020.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQHik7fZJ-A47snzEODsf_j-fj96D4w62govyOkAwqvMn_buU88B-DuxtnHaJrXc8lUET7Ei7ARe3yTV9l0sV4ExUX14C_LWJ9CRnkh90MxPeWOr_u53SNBnzEOrBGgDVv4JMxK5UiOST/s640/IMG_0020.tif" width="640" /></a></div>
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With that said, these are a delicious dessert option for summer. I almost described them as "bikini friendly" because that's a buzz word around this time of year, but I hate that expression. What makes something bikini friendly? Can I not eat cake in a bikini? I can and I will.<br />
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These are obviously Fourth of July inspired, but you could forego the cheesecake filling and use Nutella to elevate these sweet little morsels. An idea to keep in your back pocket until February maybe? I actually have been tempted by Philadelphia's new Snack Delights. I'm sure you've seen them. They're containers in the refrigerated aisle with a photo of fruit or some other snack food being dipped into it's health's demise. One flavor deliciously pairs cream cheese and chocolate together and I would like to eat it plain with a spoon. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVPWEmJ6DnNr_fmv9seGDCVr9vO2nqjC3O49Aq94aWoeuaS4cFJHGzhrhuVT8-s8TWOGqKtSkaJigraZg-sA3Ukqxr5cYBjp4EQfhPyACnLu6xfvqQ_PuFMWZWY2PpSclTYMmO0M7jqX96/s1600/IMG_0054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVPWEmJ6DnNr_fmv9seGDCVr9vO2nqjC3O49Aq94aWoeuaS4cFJHGzhrhuVT8-s8TWOGqKtSkaJigraZg-sA3Ukqxr5cYBjp4EQfhPyACnLu6xfvqQ_PuFMWZWY2PpSclTYMmO0M7jqX96/s640/IMG_0054.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So in closing, these are a wonderful treat to bring to a Fourth of July party or barbecue that you may be attending this week. They are super easy to whip up and their festive presentation is darling. Most importantly, they taste sweet and fresh and you can enjoy without guilt!</div>
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<b>Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries</b></div>
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1 package of fresh strawberries</div>
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1 8oz package of cream cheese, softened to room temperature</div>
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1/4 cup confectioner's sugar</div>
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1 tsp vanilla extract</div>
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blueberries</div>
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Use a sharp knife to slice each strawberry twice perpendicularly along the tip almost entirely through, leaving a small bit uncut</div>
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In a medium sized bowl, use a handheld mixer to beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy</div>
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Transfer cream filling to a gallon sized bag and push filling to one corner</div>
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Snip a small piece of the corner off to pipe strawberries</div>
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Separate the 4 tips of the strawberry and gently push the filling in until it reaches the top</div>
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Top with a blueberry</div>
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Repeat with all of your strawberries</div>
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Store in refrigerator until serving*</div>
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*Note: best served the day you assemble</div>
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<i style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Source <a href="http://www.fifteenspatulas.com/cheesecake-twist-stuffed-strawberries/" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Fifteen Spatulas</a></i></div>
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<em>Linked up at <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/07/tuesday-talent-show-91">Tuesday Talent Show</a>, <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/07/03/whats-cookin-wednesday-26/">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a>, <a href="http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2013/07/time-to-sparkle-16/">Time to Sparkle</a></em></div>
<br />Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-33672647241452789522013-06-28T08:00:00.001-04:002013-06-28T08:00:33.855-04:00friday favoritesCan you believe that we've made it through the final week of June already? I'm sad to see June go as it's one of my favorite months. It's my birthday month, so I try to extend the celebration as much as possible. All this means is that I have more dessert than usual.<br />
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Each year June culminates with the celebration of my cousin's birthday in Ohio. We always have one cake to celebrate my birthday, one for his party, and a second for his birthday to be enjoyed by the family. Cake is serious business in my family. We typically order an ice cream cake for my cake, but this year we decided to try something different because my cousin requested not to have a Costco sheet cake for his party. This was a real curveball for my family because we (read: I)<i> love</i> Costco cake. To compensate for the lack of enormous sheet cake, we decided to switch things up and order a giant chocolate cake to commemorate my birthday. If you haven't already experienced Costco's All-American Cake, then pick one up for your next occasion. Or no occasion at all. I won't judge unnecessary cake consumption. It's a four layer chocolate cake with rich layers of ganache frosting and chocolate shavings to garnish. It was out of this world good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsQ4YX7pMoQ352cFOCK1KRYG5AsmNixx28vRHR20al-3ZAHWQJCcVFarVJNRI4lznbpco3cjy2v3ns7ysx9cyMxB_-hMPReUHrSvEeMZphvAxZBpZSabxHLbgIoGsGzP4O0GEQZjDI9M2/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsQ4YX7pMoQ352cFOCK1KRYG5AsmNixx28vRHR20al-3ZAHWQJCcVFarVJNRI4lznbpco3cjy2v3ns7ysx9cyMxB_-hMPReUHrSvEeMZphvAxZBpZSabxHLbgIoGsGzP4O0GEQZjDI9M2/s640/photo.JPG" width="476" /></a></div>
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Anyway, on to my favorite finds from around the internet this week (click on gray link for source)!<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite indulgence: </b><a href="http://www.heatherchristo.com/cooks/2013/06/25/smores-ice-cream-pie/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">S'mores Ice Ceam Pie</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I grew up eating ice cream pies, but I've never had an ice cream pie like this delicious creation. Chocolate and coffee ice cream sandwich a rich layer of fudge over a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with marshmallow infused whipped cream. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDv7dS2MwWPSu4Cog07GkHSUdm1uugT_0DjFgsEMi62yfg2Vs1l5qCY2usQ3AASY63cEeTp0fvPnh6L4mtrm9MC7KtB6urRsXSFEcgSp-UMgQWZ7iJOLfR0bcTspkpnDFsOemc9iglE81H/s1600/9141402090_219a17a3db.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDv7dS2MwWPSu4Cog07GkHSUdm1uugT_0DjFgsEMi62yfg2Vs1l5qCY2usQ3AASY63cEeTp0fvPnh6L4mtrm9MC7KtB6urRsXSFEcgSp-UMgQWZ7iJOLfR0bcTspkpnDFsOemc9iglE81H/s640/9141402090_219a17a3db.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></b><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite meal: </b><a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2013/06/26/maple-bacon-beer-burgers/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Maple Bacon Beer Burgers</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I've always been a proponent of eating my alcohol. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18M_Fwgr5mcc3q6SqH4PIZH8drsmZqAJg6sUNs-jRvJQe5AUJ-1rRH6B2-0WZ8m8O_n37QIBIwtfLph18U8Pdt80D27-Bdh2q-CYHo4TJneOlOl75BH4a_ji1_GrLoD9EcJkPt1Xz-D4J/s1600/Maple-Bacon-Beer-Burgers-01_mini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18M_Fwgr5mcc3q6SqH4PIZH8drsmZqAJg6sUNs-jRvJQe5AUJ-1rRH6B2-0WZ8m8O_n37QIBIwtfLph18U8Pdt80D27-Bdh2q-CYHo4TJneOlOl75BH4a_ji1_GrLoD9EcJkPt1Xz-D4J/s640/Maple-Bacon-Beer-Burgers-01_mini.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite concept: </b><a href="http://housedecorpins.com/2013/03/05/coffee-bar-keeps-your-counter-and-cupboard-space-clear-for-other-stuff/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Coffee Bar</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I don't drink coffee, but I love the idea of it and I think that this is such a cute and cool look for the kitchen.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3anqLbTryskXk16p08OeuCGhDRxmD3NqrRpKRDZhuhybdya0_qWNSbCPLZHWPgxn1xl5y9_cMOVAk0EOxGOTijA3bkOLymERJdFhjthMSdZYhOZwgZRjNEmWydOSCEdYCBHgOUUEk6DEz/s1600/4158631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3anqLbTryskXk16p08OeuCGhDRxmD3NqrRpKRDZhuhybdya0_qWNSbCPLZHWPgxn1xl5y9_cMOVAk0EOxGOTijA3bkOLymERJdFhjthMSdZYhOZwgZRjNEmWydOSCEdYCBHgOUUEk6DEz/s640/4158631.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite snack: </b><a href="http://whatsgabycooking.com/guacamole-cheese-toast/#.Uct-Br_Imp5" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Guacamole Cheese Toast</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I'm on a big guacamole kick lately. Such a simple way to combine two delicious foods.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQOUC609V7-vNBvfAqGISREYkLAH5O2MK6Nt1Hu3yPERY5_QurbOC06rxzaIPJrpDfMrnAo27ON1FHYGCIxEIc8N6plJfA415ZD20oT0zlu-d9MmKEWchAFrQ1AeAJ9VfvaxM5XZSg045C/s1600/IMG_1601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQOUC609V7-vNBvfAqGISREYkLAH5O2MK6Nt1Hu3yPERY5_QurbOC06rxzaIPJrpDfMrnAo27ON1FHYGCIxEIc8N6plJfA415ZD20oT0zlu-d9MmKEWchAFrQ1AeAJ9VfvaxM5XZSg045C/s640/IMG_1601.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite DIY: </b><a href="http://www.homewithbaxter.com/2013/05/house-tour-week-5-half-bathlaundry-room.html" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Counter Over Front Loading Washer & Dryer</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I'm all about organization, especially when it makes annoying tasks easier. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfeIBbqL4_S7qpmGXctU-Fm-CxjojdBXImiuyAA3eAxGfwfcfDDU3oBMhDq97gaUokHdaF6I6L7PacjeZTIvnMd8KNPuxLG09wPqR92z51BriaUxklVW2y1Sc5bihdTAn7WPpMHoPwoCOf/s1600/Laundry+Room+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfeIBbqL4_S7qpmGXctU-Fm-CxjojdBXImiuyAA3eAxGfwfcfDDU3oBMhDq97gaUokHdaF6I6L7PacjeZTIvnMd8KNPuxLG09wPqR92z51BriaUxklVW2y1Sc5bihdTAn7WPpMHoPwoCOf/s640/Laundry+Room+2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite sweet: </b><a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2013/06/movie-theater-candy-chocolate-bark/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Movie Theater Candy Bark</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Somehow I found myself married to a movie buff. The poor guy rarely gets to go because I'm not a fan of going to the movie theater. Admittedly, I am a child when it comes to food, though, and their candy is an effective bribe to get me to see a movie on the big screen.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaaGnNDhl_B64sUEDZBh-roEXyNlgG9lXeWedps0U43vE2CFE3NYmN4kduR4pJ_64jUoOVB1WGGvIK_AHEpKsvtuZ_aC4eSL5SQmoAg0SoJiyr9K2pNvY5ElD8hkGAPtHWMqUf-AOY2LLu/s1600/moviebark-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaaGnNDhl_B64sUEDZBh-roEXyNlgG9lXeWedps0U43vE2CFE3NYmN4kduR4pJ_64jUoOVB1WGGvIK_AHEpKsvtuZ_aC4eSL5SQmoAg0SoJiyr9K2pNvY5ElD8hkGAPtHWMqUf-AOY2LLu/s640/moviebark-2.jpg" width="498" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite look: </b><a href="http://www.lovethispic.com/image/15441/4th-of-july-scarf" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Festive Scarf</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I <i>love</i> holidays, but I'm not one to dress up for a holiday. This cute scarf is a subtle and cute way to keep in the spirit of the Fourth of July holiday.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlpoqsXBjzx6vNTtttUJu7oA_Vxal1b8FE0pqx7zRvF1tgvObNfmGCamTBTruwwzH0FlIDi1N3PeGsm-Sc37rf-83KSrV5UDon4uRscyKwgiP_3m9ucHsl6rFJEpIc494_bOqHe6KJQmS/s1600/15441-4th-Of-July-Scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlpoqsXBjzx6vNTtttUJu7oA_Vxal1b8FE0pqx7zRvF1tgvObNfmGCamTBTruwwzH0FlIDi1N3PeGsm-Sc37rf-83KSrV5UDon4uRscyKwgiP_3m9ucHsl6rFJEpIc494_bOqHe6KJQmS/s400/15441-4th-Of-July-Scarf.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><b>Favorite read:<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></b></span><a href="https://medium.com/the-blog-of-james-clear/d1cbaf5844a6" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">The Science of Positive Thinking</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. This is a wonderfully insightful article written by a psychology researcher at UNC. She discusses scientific evidence to explain how positive and negative thoughts affect your brain and how these thoughts relate to your success and happiness. I found the piece really interesting and encouraging. My favorite line of the article is "happiness is both the precursor to success and the result of it."</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKjrPSeLF7E6_kV7NvBeq7pIepUptodE2Wg9OT9PAMJe8tRq0keouq-ba7BX0KpV1d4wiEu7-ZbzdSWvYVwXRa1LgVdmQb8Lq5iaYV7Cj_lPrk-8-qxHafA66Be2I06_jm2ew7x_4AR9W/s588/Screen+Shot+2013-06-27+at+6.28.32+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKjrPSeLF7E6_kV7NvBeq7pIepUptodE2Wg9OT9PAMJe8tRq0keouq-ba7BX0KpV1d4wiEu7-ZbzdSWvYVwXRa1LgVdmQb8Lq5iaYV7Cj_lPrk-8-qxHafA66Be2I06_jm2ew7x_4AR9W/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-06-27+at+6.28.32+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite remix: </b><a href="http://www.ohbiteit.com/2013/05/apple-pie-fries.html" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Apple Pie Fries</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Is it too early to be thinking of Thanksgiving?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvw3016m3bA6sC6X5xOaXmydaXAhlUXq0YoFKvdXZLtM_B-He52n8QEnwhWa60qXFjO8jjL1G-5am0MiBqyLSmrbKeB02YBdeaVFO62hEqoC3RMXmUIwfXRK57G6VTgPTyMEcxYXzqJWO/s1600/afbet-650x568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="347" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvw3016m3bA6sC6X5xOaXmydaXAhlUXq0YoFKvdXZLtM_B-He52n8QEnwhWa60qXFjO8jjL1G-5am0MiBqyLSmrbKeB02YBdeaVFO62hEqoC3RMXmUIwfXRK57G6VTgPTyMEcxYXzqJWO/s400/afbet-650x568.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite pup: </b><a href="http://www.ohbiteit.com/2013/05/apple-pie-fries.html" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Pool Pup</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. </span>I haven't made my way to the pool yet, but I'm glad this cutie is keeping cool this summer.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtqtjBeIGJd2AafzLOqFVxnU1Iqf2HQOcnr5Dqqhfv_iW_89PS82-EiT-LRATZdjJ7UtOBt_FT_lpVGylZKfFKteulh8fR8yqX7P0Mx1IDsEp5rhX47y9CSib14E1lNbKACrhfagbYoiN/s1600/3df37b18e229e19f61c72d66e1b2ed77.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtqtjBeIGJd2AafzLOqFVxnU1Iqf2HQOcnr5Dqqhfv_iW_89PS82-EiT-LRATZdjJ7UtOBt_FT_lpVGylZKfFKteulh8fR8yqX7P0Mx1IDsEp5rhX47y9CSib14E1lNbKACrhfagbYoiN/s400/3df37b18e229e19f61c72d66e1b2ed77.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite quote: </b><a href="http://itslaurenslife.tumblr.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Life is a Balancing Act</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. </span><br />
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Have a great weekend everyone!</div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-16115564886803534642013-06-25T21:09:00.004-04:002013-06-26T15:11:35.020-04:00chewy chocolate chip cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Today I did something rather embarrassing. I wrote to my employer's catering company imploring them to give me their chocolate chip cookie recipe. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQAMD7-VHwyEVl003bZV8A86Fh_f7akQKRsmDIA-gL5jlThD8IoGcc8fFrE9rOctrhK-IYk6f6Tk5vhxvnFGvGSVV4CK79n3HCyfeyL5W9GrFA2slg2TE-7kBhQLqS_p1dxCBOO7XfGW4k/s1600/IMG_4382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQAMD7-VHwyEVl003bZV8A86Fh_f7akQKRsmDIA-gL5jlThD8IoGcc8fFrE9rOctrhK-IYk6f6Tk5vhxvnFGvGSVV4CK79n3HCyfeyL5W9GrFA2slg2TE-7kBhQLqS_p1dxCBOO7XfGW4k/s640/IMG_4382.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know, but you don't understand how good their cookies are! They are some of the best chocolate chip cookies I have ever tasted and if you know me at all, then you know that I have tried <i>a lot</i> of cookies. I'm a self-proclaimed chocolate chip cookie connoisseur. I am what I am.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPqvnJmBXV-5FcAFi9do4thfq6aIR0HNSNoBMC-n6_reDRz_Wh8qu4Y-jRcZgx-wJIiTQBORR2EnK3BlgfJPyxljKRXscKT1X70ajB8OjM-ARiJVfZaXUjDg0g18Z65MCPrfHKO8lEV4GH/s1600/IMG_4393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPqvnJmBXV-5FcAFi9do4thfq6aIR0HNSNoBMC-n6_reDRz_Wh8qu4Y-jRcZgx-wJIiTQBORR2EnK3BlgfJPyxljKRXscKT1X70ajB8OjM-ARiJVfZaXUjDg0g18Z65MCPrfHKO8lEV4GH/s640/IMG_4393.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Their cookies are thick, chewy, gooey in the middle with melted chocolate in every bite, but its structure is sturdy enough to not fall apart. They're simply the best, so I must obtain the recipe.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNoXBvl3Rywg1iU-qk0jTqjXm4lAXNuSUyMbcC5iUNsK47loJO2KgEXpJ8kksNeASDDgRsGzDb92BFL5X8HmqbXSQFKQX8BwQP5IdLDb9HFywfHaTug9eAz0EGXWOKs9PFkMqtIo6hzWk3/s1600/IMG_4374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNoXBvl3Rywg1iU-qk0jTqjXm4lAXNuSUyMbcC5iUNsK47loJO2KgEXpJ8kksNeASDDgRsGzDb92BFL5X8HmqbXSQFKQX8BwQP5IdLDb9HFywfHaTug9eAz0EGXWOKs9PFkMqtIo6hzWk3/s640/IMG_4374.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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According to the cashiers in the cafeteria, there have been many requests for the recipe (all women, I'm sure), but each was denied. They actually laughed at me when I innocently inquired about their recipe. Clearly, they know they're on to something with these cookies. I refuse to accept the answer no, though, so I wrote the most compelling email I could possibly craft and sent it to the man behind the recipe. We'll see what happens!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDrtmbJ7Ismx6SCb7dUCPq3FH7V-U9vXY4gi7Ypg8ECn3B7FqFihmWvGxemNGQkCySjT3LTuBISTVYFqltrWA1s-R4EmAwa1dXcPTml98SKcXsdba88LAMefNRQAiIgVDNfbpjbaR3AZe/s1600/IMG_4398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDrtmbJ7Ismx6SCb7dUCPq3FH7V-U9vXY4gi7Ypg8ECn3B7FqFihmWvGxemNGQkCySjT3LTuBISTVYFqltrWA1s-R4EmAwa1dXcPTml98SKcXsdba88LAMefNRQAiIgVDNfbpjbaR3AZe/s640/IMG_4398.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway, these cookies aren't quite at the level of awesomeness as the coveted cookies at work, but they're quite delicious nonetheless. I made them while I was visiting my family in Ohio over the weekend. I knew that they were a great recipe when my cousin, who has the pickiest palate <i>everrrr</i>, asked for seconds <i>and </i>thirds. He is a difficult one to please! Give them a shot my friends- you won't be disappointed.<br />
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Oh, and a big thanks to my wonderful aunt who let me play with her fancy DSLR camera and capture these pretty photos!<br />
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<b>Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies</b><br />
<b><br /></b>2 cups of all purpose flour<br />
1/2 tsp baking soda<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
12 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled<br />
1 cup packed brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup granulated sugar<br />
1 large egg and 1 egg yolk<br />
2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips<br />
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Preheat over to 325 degrees<br />
In bowl of standing mixer, beat together butter and sugars until light and fluffy<br />
While creaming sugars, whisk together dry ingredients in a medium bowl<br />
Once butter and sugar is fully mixed, add eggs one at a time and beat until combined<br />
Add in vanilla and beat until combined<br />
Slowly add your dry ingredients and mix until just combined<br />
Stir in chocolate chips<br />
Roll a scant half cup of dough<br />
Holding ball with finger tips of both hands, pull apart to equal halves, rotate 90 degrees, and with jagged sides facing up, place dough on prepared cookie sheets<br />
Bake 11-14 minutes, or until edges become lightly browned (do not overbake)<br />
Let cookies cool on cookie sheets before transferring to cooling rack<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<i>Source: Baking Illustrated</i><br />
<em>Linked up at: <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/06/26/whats-cookin-wednesday-25/">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a>, <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/06/tuesday-talent-show-90/">Tuesday Talent Show</a></em><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-13456062857322000592013-06-11T05:44:00.001-04:002013-06-11T05:56:42.330-04:00chocolate cake with vanilla frosting<span style="text-align: justify;">Today is our second wedding anniversary. It's hard to believe that two years have passed since that beautiful day in Atlanta, but a lot has happened during that time. A big move, new jobs, a trip to Europe, and lots of cake. So let's get to the cake.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I baked this cake to commemorate two years of marriage to the greatest guy I know. I asked him for input on what he wanted me to make him, but in typical fashion, he said that he wanted to be surprised. So not helpful. This is his answer to almost all questions that require extra thought. I can't figure out if he really likes surprises, or if he just doesn't want to take the time to think of an answer.</span></div>
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This recipes comes from a very trusted blogger over at <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/">Kevin and Amanda</a>. The cake is super moist and fudgy. Upon first bite, I almost thought I was devouring a brownie because it's so fudgy, but the texture is definitely that of a delicious chocolate cake. I <i>loved</i> the frosting too. It's made with shortening which yields a lighter frosting. It reminds me of the kind used on cakes from the grocery store. I know that some people are strongly against store bought cakes, but I really really love them, particularly for their frosting. Don't even get me started on Costco cakes. They are all that is right in the world. </div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">I'm a frosting fanatic. I'm always horrified when I see people scrape off the frosting from their cake. I mean really, what is cake without frosting?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiai5H2nffwQ5-PTYilWnBjFWfzayA2EQhx8BsK8WLoIGPV1Dp2VDYdYQNvcXJMagjSOBUk0ldbmlgtU72AoAPiZzPrpufnt4j9lbaCnxD8bUw8_y0k5N_7S_6NDmNnhDDobJ9V_kroX8cm/s1600/IMG_2292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiai5H2nffwQ5-PTYilWnBjFWfzayA2EQhx8BsK8WLoIGPV1Dp2VDYdYQNvcXJMagjSOBUk0ldbmlgtU72AoAPiZzPrpufnt4j9lbaCnxD8bUw8_y0k5N_7S_6NDmNnhDDobJ9V_kroX8cm/s640/IMG_2292.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Which side are you guys on? Frosting or no frosting?<br />
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P.S Happy 2nd anniversary to the light of my life!<br />
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<b>Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Frosting</b><br />
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1 box of Devil's Food Cake mix<br />
1 box chocolate instant vanilla pudding mix<br />
1 cup sour cream<br />
1 cup vegetable oil<br />
4 eggs<br />
1/2 cup milk<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
2 cups mini chocolate chips (1 bag)<br />
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1 cup shortening<br />
4-5 cups powdered sugar<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
1/3 cup heavy whipping cream<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees<br />
Prepare two eight inch pans with cooking spray<br />
In a large bowl, beat together cake mix, pudding mix, sour cream, oil, eggs, milk and vanilla until combined<br />
Stir in chocolate chips<br />
Evenly pour batter into prepared cake pans<br />
Bake for 45 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean<br />
Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting<br />
While cakes cool, prepare your frosting<br />
Beat shortening until light and fluffy<br />
Slowly beat in powdered sugar one cup at a time until completely incorporated<br />
Add in salt, vanilla, and whipping cream and beat until fluffy<br />
Frost cooled cakes<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<i>Source <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/recipes/dessert/the-best-chocolate-cake.html">Kevin and Amanda</a></i><br />
Linked up at <a href="http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2013/06/time-to-sparkle-13/">Time to Sparkle</a> & <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/06/tuesday-talent-show-88/">Tuesday Talent Show</a>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-12468779450598735602013-06-04T21:04:00.004-04:002013-06-09T14:18:52.662-04:00brownie peanut butter magic bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiK5r6u_aL38ZGvh2JCngbGhLlixk7lI1cWB4VVl6WENLI2JNY5jhIWlHmBlgeeiSbi__-u8fXxMcIYD-HGuym735EP6Ouqcvh8Ht10Ps_aufM75e2qjx9FY9Rrn8RCRMExFowhXr4tJDU/s1600/IMG_2194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiK5r6u_aL38ZGvh2JCngbGhLlixk7lI1cWB4VVl6WENLI2JNY5jhIWlHmBlgeeiSbi__-u8fXxMcIYD-HGuym735EP6Ouqcvh8Ht10Ps_aufM75e2qjx9FY9Rrn8RCRMExFowhXr4tJDU/s640/IMG_2194.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I suffered from baking withdrawals while out of the country. I found myself inexplicably irritable at times when walking the streets of Italy and I attributed it to my sugar cravings. Of course I had gelato with lunch and dinner, but it didn't satiate my sweet tooth quite like baking does.<br />
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Naturally, as soon as our bags hit the floor upon our arrival home last week, I pulled out my standing mixer and made two batches of my favorite chocolate chip cookie dough. I couldn't decide! I was feeling super denied of my beloved chocolate chip cookies, so two kinds were definitely in order.<br />
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Cookie baking transpired every night for the remainder of the week to make up for lost time, but I was feeling particularly motivated on Saturday night to try a new recipe. That's where these babies come into the picture.<br />
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Here we have brownie peanut butter magic bars. A dense fudgy crust serves as the base for a layer of chocolate peanut butter magic. If you're not familiar with (un)necessarily gluttonous desserts, then you may not know that sweetened condensed milk is the "magic" that makes a rich layer of decadence.</div>
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These bars are so simple to whip up. In the bowl of a standing mixer (or use an electric mixer) beat together a box of brownie mix, 1 stick of butter, and 1 egg. Your dough will be very thick. Press it down into a 9x13 inch greased pan then sprinkle half a bag of peanut butter chips and half a bag of chocolate chips onto your crust. Pour a can of sweetened condensed milk over the chips. Pop your pan into the oven for 30 minutes and you're in for a magical treat (I know, lame, but go with it).</div>
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No sugar cravings after these. Well, maybe some.</div>
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<b>Brownie Peanut Butter Magic Bars</b></div>
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<b><br /></b>1 box Brownie Mix</div>
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1 stick butter, softened</div>
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1 egg</div>
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8 Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, chopped</div>
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1 cup peanut butter chips</div>
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1 cup chocolate chips</div>
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1 can of sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can)</div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees</div>
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Prepare 9x13 baking pan with cooking spray or parchment paper</div>
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Beat together Brownie Mix, butter, and egg until combined (dough will be very thick)</div>
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Evenly press dough into bottom of greased pan</div>
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Sprinkle peanut butter cups, peanut butter chips, and chocolate chips over dough</div>
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Pour sweetened condensed milk over candy in an even back and forth fashion*</div>
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Bake for 30 minutes</div>
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Let cool completely before cutting into bars</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<i>Source <a href="http://www.crazyforcrust.com/2013/01/brownie-peanut-butter-magic-bars/">Crazy for Crust</a></i><br />
Linked up at <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/06/05/whats-cookin-wednesday-22/">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a> & <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/06/tuesday-talent-show-87/">Tuesday Talent Show</a><br />
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*Try not to concentrate the milk to the middle of the pan. </div>
Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-42910514720045150012013-05-31T05:42:00.002-04:002013-05-31T07:43:59.364-04:00friday favorites<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Oh hi! I'm back! I apologize for my unexpected hiatus. Life became a bit too chaotic, and I needed to unplug for a little while. I created this blog as a fun hobby and I want it to continue to be something I enjoy, so hopefully I'll be able to find a balance that allows me to post regularly without feeling too bogged down. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I can't believe it's already the last day of May, but I'm so excited for June. I love June because it involves a lot of family time and it's my birthday month, which means excessive amounts of cake. </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Kent and I just returned from 10 days in Italy, so we plan to catch up on sleep and laziness this weekend.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"> Not too different from most weekends, but we really need the R&R this time. At some point I plan to cut up my first watermelon of the season. Mmm, I can't wait to enjoy a slice in this glorious summer weather.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Anyway, on to my Friday Favorites where I share some of my favorite finds from around the internet this week (click on the gray link for the source):</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite indulgence: </b><a href="http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/hot-fudge-chocolate-chip-cookie-cookie-dough-ice-cream-sandwich/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Hot Fudge Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I know it's been a while, but I hope that you haven't forgotten about my love for cookie dough. Despite this affinity, I typically pass on cookie dough ice cream because I find that it mostly provides scant pieces of dry cookie dough. Bleh. A homemade version though is sure to deliver the quality of dough I crave. Sandwich it between two cookies and fudge and that my friends is a winning recipe.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsS-U_EO0mNIhbs6-wIuiQmsAjz5URZ_mg6hGiaphPfbRXWiuMpDQToq-gBJ9db5C4RvadE6D8JHmqKMtUru2T0QqIJLPNS6K6r7NEYtvjQ6ecHEsJL3jmzEPdyvhodmRIOUTuGIoVJ6r8/s1600/Hot-Fudge-Chocolate-Chip-Cookie-Cookie-Dough-Ice-Cream-Sandwich-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsS-U_EO0mNIhbs6-wIuiQmsAjz5URZ_mg6hGiaphPfbRXWiuMpDQToq-gBJ9db5C4RvadE6D8JHmqKMtUru2T0QqIJLPNS6K6r7NEYtvjQ6ecHEsJL3jmzEPdyvhodmRIOUTuGIoVJ6r8/s640/Hot-Fudge-Chocolate-Chip-Cookie-Cookie-Dough-Ice-Cream-Sandwich-2.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite DIY: </b><a href="http://theviewfromthegreatisland.blogspot.it/2013/05/cookies-and-cream-peanut-butter.html?m=1" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Cookies and Cream Peanut Butter</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. This post will be predominantly food related because I am dying to share some of the wonderful culinary finds I've stumbled upon during my hiatus. Does this not sound incredible? Pulse two sleeves of oreos together in a food processor with peanuts to create a creamy, decadent, chocolatey peanut butter. Slather that on a piece of banana bread and you're in food heaven. I suppose you could jazz up a piece of toast with it for a <i>lighter</i> option.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZiGhwCFQeMw-XNRERolCr75PoAkCD0NZDTtOdv1jZsHhlXbK-p5OQ5ZuX3j7c6w3w0svIdwz9pz635ieKbUTe3tnT1DnM3Klc2aGCPM9MCxspR3guzwo7GEcIfbHIqtnPGE-wM6CWD0y/s1600/086-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZiGhwCFQeMw-XNRERolCr75PoAkCD0NZDTtOdv1jZsHhlXbK-p5OQ5ZuX3j7c6w3w0svIdwz9pz635ieKbUTe3tnT1DnM3Klc2aGCPM9MCxspR3guzwo7GEcIfbHIqtnPGE-wM6CWD0y/s400/086-002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite look: </b><a href="http://www.washingtonian.com/blogs/shoparound/how-sydney-wears-it/how-sydney-wears-it-the-baseball-tee-3-ways.php?crlt.pid=camp.UEjpJUqZQJuM" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Baseball Tee</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I love the versatility of a baseball tee. It can be worn super casually or dressed up with the right accessories as seen here. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvR98ae-N6fko3lqk9OIEggacXgb7pzgUMum4MnWs56ixdDSxDJTdhqROv6B_E4AuXpexPedC4dDvuFUwm6e0RklnQEnngqmZn1WQsCj2UzYplOpFNd5mmR9w5ssArby2HsAAe_mOVDwu8/s1600/2012-07-03-sydney-jeans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvR98ae-N6fko3lqk9OIEggacXgb7pzgUMum4MnWs56ixdDSxDJTdhqROv6B_E4AuXpexPedC4dDvuFUwm6e0RklnQEnngqmZn1WQsCj2UzYplOpFNd5mmR9w5ssArby2HsAAe_mOVDwu8/s640/2012-07-03-sydney-jeans.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite bite: </b><a href="http://www.tablefortwoblog.com/2013/05/31/mini-open-faced-veggie-bites/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Mini Open Faced Veggie Bites</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. What a sweet and delicious idea for an appetizer or finger food. This recipe uses two types of cheeses and a medley of bell peppers to create a flavorful crunchy bite. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin3kPsuq58QdvulsjQ5vgU3J5x6yDCK5KVXvVVneM0LSklwIasaPxTSyJJhOOjHTYe7YUhdg9UyUnbpMUZeQHiw3wnwoADgHJkaU4JnLFufzVrQC3lXe3aRM7SMY-4L2u-IHwAv9UHlnZD/s1600/775de60bd0af5bfedcbede7b2c4911a1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin3kPsuq58QdvulsjQ5vgU3J5x6yDCK5KVXvVVneM0LSklwIasaPxTSyJJhOOjHTYe7YUhdg9UyUnbpMUZeQHiw3wnwoADgHJkaU4JnLFufzVrQC3lXe3aRM7SMY-4L2u-IHwAv9UHlnZD/s640/775de60bd0af5bfedcbede7b2c4911a1-1.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite meal: </b><a href="http://www.insockmonkeyslippers.com/burrata-with-white-wine-and-garlic-sauteed-tomatoes" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Burrata with White Wine and Garlic Sauteed Tomatoes</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">If you've never heard of </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">burrata, then please let me introduce you. The author of this delicious recipe describes this delicacy impeccably, "A pulled mozzerella wrapped around a blend of soft mozzarella and cream creating a luscious tantalizing cheese bomb when you break into it." Just glorious. </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliYYSbThCoE5P9PGVxh7n-t2OVn4tN4TTG5kna5rx82T9Y_6uSKIdWpKQWakPF4yOf1HYFoU28EhmcJfT2hKMwbw5sbIwU1atSNB3GMseTktSx3Ta8fMqxGztX5EckBBzdEPzdR4brJyW/s1600/burrata-sauteed-tomatoes-681x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliYYSbThCoE5P9PGVxh7n-t2OVn4tN4TTG5kna5rx82T9Y_6uSKIdWpKQWakPF4yOf1HYFoU28EhmcJfT2hKMwbw5sbIwU1atSNB3GMseTktSx3Ta8fMqxGztX5EckBBzdEPzdR4brJyW/s640/burrata-sauteed-tomatoes-681x1024.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Favorite decor: </b><a href="http://aglimpseofthegirlnextdoor.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-11-12T10%3A15%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=10" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-decoration: none;">Tabletop Over Machines</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">. This is a great idea for those who are forced to fold laundry on the couch, inevitably resulting in poorly folded clothes. It seems unlikely that you would have such a large and open laundry room as this photo suggests, but I would be happy to have a little working station in a closet of a laundry room if it meant I could have this level of organization.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm6Vv7XylVX07t2o0k9UpWSxOC-z2yQFO06ID6RAM8U4LulEBH7pyuok4djzakZuFArW_AwTmNuOJJAgSzK9PfEoi6y7D6_1ZqcP8FQn3LNz6MLWYjyzA1gLJ68oiFPYuY8ZZ0hrjPHsl7/s1600/90eed4fd2f1bc86a0922dfc1fbb551e8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm6Vv7XylVX07t2o0k9UpWSxOC-z2yQFO06ID6RAM8U4LulEBH7pyuok4djzakZuFArW_AwTmNuOJJAgSzK9PfEoi6y7D6_1ZqcP8FQn3LNz6MLWYjyzA1gLJ68oiFPYuY8ZZ0hrjPHsl7/s400/90eed4fd2f1bc86a0922dfc1fbb551e8.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite fake out: </b><a href="http://www.yourcupofcake.com/2013/05/snow-cone-cupcakes.html" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Snow Cone Cupcakes</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. So creative. I really thought that this blogger just scooped shaved ice into a cupcake liner, but she actually frosted and sprinkled a vanilla cupcake to mirror the appearance of a snow cone. Perhaps too much work for a cupcake, but I love this idea for a summer party.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE0krFAF87qgk0hN6X2CvU4iK58WsJ28xzWq3rDIuBIPtCUxRXHNNyYXeiBNbusI_2H5_tu7hbiTnG3cP2HJiMNwUBC3ak8-ZIC4GOucxtMpHJBX_taEXTK2GkUdeiPw8wMLICyAcZL1gb/s1600/Snow-Cone-Cupcakes-640x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE0krFAF87qgk0hN6X2CvU4iK58WsJ28xzWq3rDIuBIPtCUxRXHNNyYXeiBNbusI_2H5_tu7hbiTnG3cP2HJiMNwUBC3ak8-ZIC4GOucxtMpHJBX_taEXTK2GkUdeiPw8wMLICyAcZL1gb/s640/Snow-Cone-Cupcakes-640x1024.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite video: </b><a href="http://vimeo.com/16735601" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Saved By The Bell Finale Anniversary</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. The series finale of Saved By the Bell Aired twenty years ago this month. Is there any show like it today? I don't think so. How sad for today's kids who can't relate to the neuroses of Jessie Spano or envy the off-the-shoulder-sweatshirt-wearing Kelly Kapowski. Most people fondly remember the infamous scene where Jessie breaks down with Zach over her caffeine pills and exclaims that she's so excited. How can you not love that scene? In case you don't remember the circumstances surrounding her need to stay alert, then this video may jog your memory (trouble uploading the video, so click on gray link).</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkpgbITdQpqHBSS5s4ISZp05BR-rDiFyTv3lspsA1XTmnlQq0hzNgMPeiUebthBXN3uRQTDXjHUWsjN5AGkkkcZvwJib-Kmi-W9hyphenhyphenDD1UoKJUes7mLQtZtE2E7fhL75PfiSjQBZf-x5yG/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-05-30+at+7.54.46+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkpgbITdQpqHBSS5s4ISZp05BR-rDiFyTv3lspsA1XTmnlQq0hzNgMPeiUebthBXN3uRQTDXjHUWsjN5AGkkkcZvwJib-Kmi-W9hyphenhyphenDD1UoKJUes7mLQtZtE2E7fhL75PfiSjQBZf-x5yG/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-05-30+at+7.54.46+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite image: </b><a href="http://littlehawke1702.tumblr.com/post/36704116088/lake-hillier-western-australia" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Lake Hillier</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. This is a pink lake in Western Australia. A pink lake! While I think this is quite awesome, I will not be embarking on a trip around the world to see it despite my husband's desire to see the land down under.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhllcI5-Ek3LQ79VHsVI0oiUk4THkLsJICtZhGF9_fWRrOEU68rCUz0yaW4sKypuisQfYp3-repsmWd3-G9SdqqmA4h88IRnFZqPNEEdk8yJIBsc4Qu-aSTENlNAHbAR-XkMweOx2eK4b2o/s1600/tumblr_me6bh5HcsN1rzckufo1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhllcI5-Ek3LQ79VHsVI0oiUk4THkLsJICtZhGF9_fWRrOEU68rCUz0yaW4sKypuisQfYp3-repsmWd3-G9SdqqmA4h88IRnFZqPNEEdk8yJIBsc4Qu-aSTENlNAHbAR-XkMweOx2eK4b2o/s640/tumblr_me6bh5HcsN1rzckufo1_1280.jpg" width="513" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite remix: </b><a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/?utm_source=feed&utm_campaign=rss-no-more&utm_medium=rss" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Chocolate Waffles with Peanut Butter Sauce</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I don't vary my breakfast food nearly as much as I should. I love pancakes, casseroles, muffins, streusels, etc, but I'm a creature of habit (</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">and </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">convenience) and always choose oatmeal or cereal for breakfast. These waffles are something I can get behind for the extra effort they require, sans "yee haw" topper.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNkoPVsUIepvKrnp8mR8VyoXv2TEzfo7iFD8jAHgzRLI5Z28S0S4vYAOBEX3ppbyrgyxKSEXop82PN6x0J0bWz0FuagA2a-nsGEBLX46ND81qFCNjXLkWhcbzIYdDZQhtf36j2KoUvyQI/s1600/chocolate-waffle-with-peanut-butter-sauce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNkoPVsUIepvKrnp8mR8VyoXv2TEzfo7iFD8jAHgzRLI5Z28S0S4vYAOBEX3ppbyrgyxKSEXop82PN6x0J0bWz0FuagA2a-nsGEBLX46ND81qFCNjXLkWhcbzIYdDZQhtf36j2KoUvyQI/s640/chocolate-waffle-with-peanut-butter-sauce.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite funny: </b><a href="http://Kent and I just returned from 10 days in Italy, so we plan to catch up on sleep and laziness this weekend." style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Dinosaur Wedding Crasher</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Have you all seen this yet? There are so any cliche and corny wedding party photos that you see time and time again. Here is a fresh fun idea that I love. I wish we had been so creative. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinGA6q4opfhGfH5-49-ahPD6n-dE8s15MlFtvKX7GY4N1YVcWfS6L47pbdVtpFWER0hb1GxstHkJMIIlXgJlDgZsRNuh2Cr1l2SiX8Xhub8-OGb56OzYOkRmldN6-cQydQTpkmwbZOwv0V/s1600/S1mLm5M.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinGA6q4opfhGfH5-49-ahPD6n-dE8s15MlFtvKX7GY4N1YVcWfS6L47pbdVtpFWER0hb1GxstHkJMIIlXgJlDgZsRNuh2Cr1l2SiX8Xhub8-OGb56OzYOkRmldN6-cQydQTpkmwbZOwv0V/s640/S1mLm5M.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite treat: </b><a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2013/05/blueberry-muffin-ice-cream/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Blueberry Muffin Ice Cream</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. C'mon people. How good does this sound? Pieces of blueberry muffins in a creamy cinnamon ice cream. Someone <i>please</i> send me an ice cream maker. I will make you this ice cream. (Also, how cute is this food styling? <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/">Jessica</a> is an amazing food blogger.)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzUKzW5W3AQsrRbgPOJbtOlpHUSSdLYmYNDTRWxr-kyQNjwcBjUzcreZx2WcFoAu0o7G7meMJLxAWOfJkU2mqQ-ZMbAKUGwZDO5pzGrQkZuKH1xsouze7OGQgqiDzZ21t7xHmDh4BtPSYW/s1600/blueberryicecream-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzUKzW5W3AQsrRbgPOJbtOlpHUSSdLYmYNDTRWxr-kyQNjwcBjUzcreZx2WcFoAu0o7G7meMJLxAWOfJkU2mqQ-ZMbAKUGwZDO5pzGrQkZuKH1xsouze7OGQgqiDzZ21t7xHmDh4BtPSYW/s400/blueberryicecream-1.jpg" width="331" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite Pup: </b><a href="http://blogbyjoyce.tumblr.com/post/48862269739" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Sweet Tooth Pup</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Add a dog to the above, and you make a great photo even better. A dog after my own heart.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9MjYjYUg100dleNHAAC9Rhvnq0o0r_TwYRZp94BkSelFqzMxCfJro9BlimL3LcRe7NeoOdOSqF8OjwQz5Ow2Uylc1qWbA22hyphenhyphenkcM2IvNY-tfUL8y0azLL6EDZ6P7DfmKSULeHbiwDllqf/s1600/tumblr_ml403xsi4z1qa4bkpo1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9MjYjYUg100dleNHAAC9Rhvnq0o0r_TwYRZp94BkSelFqzMxCfJro9BlimL3LcRe7NeoOdOSqF8OjwQz5Ow2Uylc1qWbA22hyphenhyphenkcM2IvNY-tfUL8y0azLL6EDZ6P7DfmKSULeHbiwDllqf/s640/tumblr_ml403xsi4z1qa4bkpo1_500.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite quote: </b><a href="http://www.101woonstickers.nl/a-28021968/muurstickers-living/muursticker-buddha/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">What You Think</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. A provocative thought to leave you all with.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjWn_ZYwXbDEgA2r2S271T6keZkI9RLAyvFT0ntSXoAVQI9_31vh9D-vnh5brkEVo76wE7NFy00SNYJlYe-VeTVsocube9BRGmIo1q9usIOZzhKUzyrnCo1ZFmJI_AhEJKdcRq2e6e_1K/s1600/article28021961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjWn_ZYwXbDEgA2r2S271T6keZkI9RLAyvFT0ntSXoAVQI9_31vh9D-vnh5brkEVo76wE7NFy00SNYJlYe-VeTVsocube9BRGmIo1q9usIOZzhKUzyrnCo1ZFmJI_AhEJKdcRq2e6e_1K/s320/article28021961.jpg" width="269" /></a></div>
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Have a great weekend everyone!</div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-88096018297324360852013-04-19T08:06:00.000-04:002013-04-19T08:06:15.837-04:00friday favoritesHappy Friday everyone. I hope that you all had a good week. It's been a difficult week for our country to say the least. Monday's tragedy in Boston was absolutely horrific, but there were so many heroic acts performed by the runners, volunteers, and bystanders that demonstrated the strength and resilience of the human spirit. I'm still processing the senseless catastrophe, so I don't have too many thoughts to share, but this week's favorites feature many internet finds that relate to Monday's event.<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite image: </b><a href="http://bakeat350.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">We Heart Boston</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I told you on Sunday that I couldn't get in a long run because my knee was bothering me, but after hearing about the Boston Marathon, I told myself that if they could get through Monday's event then I could get through a run on the treadmill. I ran a little over 8 miles while watching coverage and it really was the easiest run of my life. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxxgE9vqTW4yrfZ0yHs11SWBK_jaVCjWETLPgY0RK2wIjhlV4pWeIfTnqhDnJeanTiXZBScVXCPcG7ut1U8rdOH20BhNr53rxbWztDYtXxCpHzxxQo1wiBOKoYcATg_ygWJtSGIFTMgIs/s1600/Boston.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxxgE9vqTW4yrfZ0yHs11SWBK_jaVCjWETLPgY0RK2wIjhlV4pWeIfTnqhDnJeanTiXZBScVXCPcG7ut1U8rdOH20BhNr53rxbWztDYtXxCpHzxxQo1wiBOKoYcATg_ygWJtSGIFTMgIs/s640/Boston.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite indulgence: </b><a href="http://chasingdelicious.com/salt-vinegar-chips-topped-chocolate-cake/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Salt & Vinegar Topped Chocolate Cake</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Sweet and salty isn't a novel idea, but <i>this</i> certainly is. Oh, this looks so good.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tIZWrLAGXwrDRquZ5Jjh_uAll0QrtCXJw44rSdk2lxY31hIgf1VIIfRwtvrXwefZPVait6zLNmcS_VgRPKIIO_OMcZu8GwoVjiT9hSgFRjor99S0lhW4DqpLJCr6c44HVloR0IqQdVny/s1600/chiptoppedcake-2-620x953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tIZWrLAGXwrDRquZ5Jjh_uAll0QrtCXJw44rSdk2lxY31hIgf1VIIfRwtvrXwefZPVait6zLNmcS_VgRPKIIO_OMcZu8GwoVjiT9hSgFRjor99S0lhW4DqpLJCr6c44HVloR0IqQdVny/s640/chiptoppedcake-2-620x953.jpg" width="416" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite DIY: </b><a href="http://www.brittanymakes.com/2013/04/09/craigslist-dresser-makeover/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Dresser Makeover</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. You should really click on this link to see how the dresser looked before. The blogosphere has introduced me to so many talented and creative people.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBl9YCJ-FHxnyJ2LMIXJTnXvAO71T2gdKk4wrJG8E64Yoq_KG40HgsV-MR2wMHMfmg2pOPY-Bl0VuEkkwdL_KyT_4SNJXwu000HUSoZRUGJDhSHT6x2cQpDelKB-JMiMuId6Aso_0kvQz/s1600/Coral_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBl9YCJ-FHxnyJ2LMIXJTnXvAO71T2gdKk4wrJG8E64Yoq_KG40HgsV-MR2wMHMfmg2pOPY-Bl0VuEkkwdL_KyT_4SNJXwu000HUSoZRUGJDhSHT6x2cQpDelKB-JMiMuId6Aso_0kvQz/s640/Coral_2.jpg" width="422" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite meal: </b><a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2013/04/15/healthier-smothered-sweet-potato-fries-how-to-make-ground-beef-go-farther/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Smothered Sweet Potato Fries</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Yep, yep, yep. This is definitely happening in my kitchen soon. Taco meat and sweet potato fries is a brilliant idea.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphen-CPHUomZG4jp7TolV_awmKx07uJ9t9KLHod7SmRa5vumaC0HwMSWPRhFdNkv_KZGNCjt50L-YUOSKLJ8GPcLECvwARJkoc4ObIAVIFs_CwhJt_cx6T6ttMLOrSCDgPsNVnxO23rrxtE/s1600/Smothered-Sweet-Potato-Fries-02b_mini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphen-CPHUomZG4jp7TolV_awmKx07uJ9t9KLHod7SmRa5vumaC0HwMSWPRhFdNkv_KZGNCjt50L-YUOSKLJ8GPcLECvwARJkoc4ObIAVIFs_CwhJt_cx6T6ttMLOrSCDgPsNVnxO23rrxtE/s640/Smothered-Sweet-Potato-Fries-02b_mini.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite video: </b><a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/people/2013/04/17/jon-stewart-stephen-colbert-salute-boston/2090667/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Stephen Colbert Salutes Boston</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Love this man.</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite look: </b><a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/leonoraepstein/28-toys-from-your-childhood-that-are-now-worth-bank" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">28 Toys From Your Childhood That Are Now Worth Bank</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">. Fashion Plates. </span></span><i style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">How</i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"> could I forget about my beloved fashion plates is beyond me. These were my life. As was that Little Tykes Cozy Coupe. Really this whole list is an aggregate of my childhood. Thanks Mom for showering me with these gems.</span></span></span></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite pup: </b><a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/the-most-important-pictures-of-a-baby-covered-in-french-bull" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Baby & Bulldogs</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. My heart has melted.</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite bite </b><a href="http://bevcooks.com/2013/04/roasted-ratatouille-toasts/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Roasted Rataouille Toast</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. This is a very good idea. I've never seen ratatouille presented in such a delicious manner before, but I would love to order this as an appetizer. </span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite concept: </b><a href="http://www.mykitchenescapades.com/2012/08/lunchbox-icepacks.html" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Luchbox Icepacks</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Saturate a sponge in water, lay flat in freezer, and throw in your lunchbox. As sponge melts, it absorbs the water, so you can throw it back in the freezer once you're home. Cheap and simple, people. </span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite sweet: </b><a href="http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/grilled-banana-bread-peanut-butter-smore-with-vanilla-marshmallows/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Grilled Banana Bread Peanut Butter S'mores</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I know. I have an addiction problem within my addiction to sweets and that is to s'mores inspired dessert. Just look. I can't even handle how badly I want this.</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite read: </b><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/18/opinion/a-senate-in-the-gun-lobbys-grip.html?hp&_r=1&" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">A Senate in the Gun Lobby's Grip by Gabby Giffords</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Along with many, I hope that the Senate is ashamed of themselves. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Despite your political views, this is an issue we <i>must</i> come together on. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Here is an article written by a true hero that is a cogent and excellent piece.</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite quote: </b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thechalkboardmag?group_id=0" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">There Are Always People Helping</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Have a great weekend everyone!</span>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-28213055883335103682013-04-16T07:30:00.000-04:002013-04-17T16:38:14.154-04:00peanut butter banana chocolate chip oatmeal bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT__j8fvDfro4hzRo1Bg1FJaKcLGwelhE-MvyIvjlEkZwaw7mcYpMYlxdazoJw-Pedbu4qOk3ZLhlWSURyagLkJ4j03tz2hmNdoyRxVVw1AA5BTkJ6PqqYY_dJoQN39vTpdUxHET5Uqyno/s1600/DSC03424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT__j8fvDfro4hzRo1Bg1FJaKcLGwelhE-MvyIvjlEkZwaw7mcYpMYlxdazoJw-Pedbu4qOk3ZLhlWSURyagLkJ4j03tz2hmNdoyRxVVw1AA5BTkJ6PqqYY_dJoQN39vTpdUxHET5Uqyno/s640/DSC03424.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Peanut butter banana chocolate chip oatmeal bars. Whew, that's a mouthful. A mouthful of goodness, though. And healthy goodness at that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_IelQfD0zQW7pU5b3sxlslAA3es4O_zXR4CAmu6_DU-A13MYGV_06ctlD-IPjZBeh_10ptHT2mV0_QPFpWLokJfRYNNwWmMWwAkSupgV-F8CEeTxH8l_cT99W074VnG2AyU6VKn1nemW/s1600/DSC03426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_IelQfD0zQW7pU5b3sxlslAA3es4O_zXR4CAmu6_DU-A13MYGV_06ctlD-IPjZBeh_10ptHT2mV0_QPFpWLokJfRYNNwWmMWwAkSupgV-F8CEeTxH8l_cT99W074VnG2AyU6VKn1nemW/s640/DSC03426.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Yes, this is a my first healthy dessert recipe that I'm sharing here on the blog. I've made them a few times since first testing the recipe because they're really a great treat. These bars taste rich and indulgent, but they use absolutely no butter. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ldGa1_9dLfP7XdoLTA9D9tOcrN0G9iRdyS_lVmGZTCvMyZ6Cs93NzzTzQM9HoDhY4qSiECaYC6ZZ3sBdE59wGJ0pJcjKlCf1grTtq5eC50ByPJJmuuvTVIvd4jGXK6NhAEWg9GBCHPRo/s1600/DSC03465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ldGa1_9dLfP7XdoLTA9D9tOcrN0G9iRdyS_lVmGZTCvMyZ6Cs93NzzTzQM9HoDhY4qSiECaYC6ZZ3sBdE59wGJ0pJcjKlCf1grTtq5eC50ByPJJmuuvTVIvd4jGXK6NhAEWg9GBCHPRo/s640/DSC03465.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The ripe banana and peanut butter work together to yield a soft and chewy texture that is exactly what I'm looking for in a dessert bar. In addition, they both provide a delicious flavor that pairs so well with the chocolate chips. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVRnBiQcn-rxdF5w4rCI_f-dDJGrvy1rcv760aeOvTWSSoleA2aGKjF7EqdCcGIR42_2DIKVuQ5asgX8w18hRt0-UhFPw14QciDpB3bs3ceXSqdIFCq22z8nI-Xlk8UjsRrVrXzNhzw_Zv/s1600/DSC03422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVRnBiQcn-rxdF5w4rCI_f-dDJGrvy1rcv760aeOvTWSSoleA2aGKjF7EqdCcGIR42_2DIKVuQ5asgX8w18hRt0-UhFPw14QciDpB3bs3ceXSqdIFCq22z8nI-Xlk8UjsRrVrXzNhzw_Zv/s640/DSC03422.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The banana acts as a natural sweetener, so not only are these bars sans butter, but they use considerably less sugar than traditional dessert bars.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDCYRPyB9vKdVOYUYS11ASxrxOEl5IXOTrSG_8i5-xrVpcsaSZ6D1uZ9kWMxvml0h2y8yi3DCXpN95KBimadwr9ZKp3XEEQuRTTWe5Fopzf_j8GgWfPaHuhkKBhkBA-3EqId-jy3mfoJd/s1600/DSC03448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDCYRPyB9vKdVOYUYS11ASxrxOEl5IXOTrSG_8i5-xrVpcsaSZ6D1uZ9kWMxvml0h2y8yi3DCXpN95KBimadwr9ZKp3XEEQuRTTWe5Fopzf_j8GgWfPaHuhkKBhkBA-3EqId-jy3mfoJd/s640/DSC03448.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Aside from being a treat that you can feel good about eating, I love how easy they are to make. You don't need any fancy equipment. Just a bowl, a spoon, and some muscle. Speaking of muscle, these are a great post-workout snack. Oats, banana, and peanut butter- I'm certain any nutritionist would advise that these as a good option for fuel for the body. Bake these up my friends! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT__j8fvDfro4hzRo1Bg1FJaKcLGwelhE-MvyIvjlEkZwaw7mcYpMYlxdazoJw-Pedbu4qOk3ZLhlWSURyagLkJ4j03tz2hmNdoyRxVVw1AA5BTkJ6PqqYY_dJoQN39vTpdUxHET5Uqyno/s1600/DSC03424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT__j8fvDfro4hzRo1Bg1FJaKcLGwelhE-MvyIvjlEkZwaw7mcYpMYlxdazoJw-Pedbu4qOk3ZLhlWSURyagLkJ4j03tz2hmNdoyRxVVw1AA5BTkJ6PqqYY_dJoQN39vTpdUxHET5Uqyno/s640/DSC03424.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars</b><br />
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2.5 cups old fashioned oats<br />
1/4 cup brown sugar<br />
1 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1/2 cup milk (I used skim)<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 large egg<br />
2 large ripe bananas, mashed<br />
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter<br />
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chip<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees<br />
Prepare 8x8 baking pan with cooking spray or parchment paper<br />
Whisk together dry ingredients in medium sized bowl; set aside<br />
Mix peanut butter and bananas together in large bowl<br />
Add milk, vanilla, and egg to banana mixture and mix until combined<br />
Slowly add dry ingredients to wet and mix until well combined<br />
Stir in chocolate chips<br />
Evenly spread mixture into prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes<br />
Let cool completely before cutting into bars<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<i>Source <a href="http://sallysbakingaddiction.com/2012/03/29/peanut-butter-banana-chocolate-chip-oatmeal-bars/">Sally's Baking Addiction</a></i><br />
Linked up at <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/04/tuesday-talent-show-80/#comment-40599">Tuesday Talent Show</a>, <a href="http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2013/04/time-to-sparkle-5/">Time to Sparkle</a>, <a href="http://www.bunsinmyoven.com/2013/04/17/whats-cookin-wednesday-15/">What's Cookin' Wednesday</a>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-60778890715778773662013-04-14T20:09:00.001-04:002013-04-14T20:09:41.626-04:00weekend reviewWe enjoyed a wonderful visit with my mom this weekend, so sit tight while I take you through the visit if you're interested.<br />
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I made a last minute venue change to our Friday dinner plans, and I'm so happy that I did. We ate at a restaurant called the Thames Street Oyster House. It's a cute small eatery located in Fells Point. I called during lunch to see if they were still accepting reservations, but I was notified that they book up two weeks in advance. I wasn't deterred and figured that if we went early enough then we could be seated. Apparently we were only seated due to a cancellation. All these signs indicated that we were in for a successful dining experience, and that it was. Here are some pictures from the meal:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwc80LOPiM3Jrn71iHDwbcBPrgHK2xMiR-GmRilRNU-JiZuq4770TpmPVfIb5LTOsmdPvSGpB7mjGjsrBfxC39AS_lMaOybcqycCyvAEmq3hA15k747fmXbolIyGddAz-gu6Xw7U1pYV_/s1600/DSC03564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwc80LOPiM3Jrn71iHDwbcBPrgHK2xMiR-GmRilRNU-JiZuq4770TpmPVfIb5LTOsmdPvSGpB7mjGjsrBfxC39AS_lMaOybcqycCyvAEmq3hA15k747fmXbolIyGddAz-gu6Xw7U1pYV_/s640/DSC03564.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Customized appetizer from the raw bar: jumbo shrimp and oysters</div>
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My mom and I ordered the scallops over a walnut goat cheese risotto- happiness on a plate</div>
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Kent ordered the monkfish over homemade gnocchi in a lobster bacon reduction sauce</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYweUubykyakosM_jeGLl_ZnkwpwYyYE1WQ0qaO2Xs2ad5PFHf13FCu8ID96LzC8BFB1QI3QtR9nI7PdQMGHofv8RM1zUaLPet8qbeiGFrQeyn89hd-fXi7IVNkJfFOokVbKynWquEvyp/s1600/DSC03580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYweUubykyakosM_jeGLl_ZnkwpwYyYE1WQ0qaO2Xs2ad5PFHf13FCu8ID96LzC8BFB1QI3QtR9nI7PdQMGHofv8RM1zUaLPet8qbeiGFrQeyn89hd-fXi7IVNkJfFOokVbKynWquEvyp/s640/DSC03580.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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My dessert was a chocolate ganache cake that was disappointing in size and "wow" factor. I should have gone with the cinnamon crumb cake with coffee ice cream</div>
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Kent ordered the caramel bread pudding. Don't let the appearance fool you- this dessert was incredible</div>
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A cute doggie bag, right?</div>
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You had to have known this was coming. I needed a second dessert because the first didn't satisfy me quite right. We live across from a Dunkin Donuts, so I got a vanilla creme donut to round out the night</div>
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Luckily, we woke up to blue skies on Saturday because Friday was a wash in terms of the weather. I struggled my way through a workout on the elliptical. I attribute my weakness to the over indulgence that took place the night before. Some cookies may or may not have followed the donut. Anyway, after lunch, we embarked on a self-guided walking tour around the harbor. Here are some snapshots:</div>
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If there is ever a day that Kent asks me to take a picture of him, my heart may stop</div>
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I spy a pirate ship</div>
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Just a mother and her favorite!</div>
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Our trek thoroughly tired us, so we plopped ourselves on the couch until dinner. Well, I baked cookies, but it was done out of leisure. For dinner, I decided on a nearby restaurant called Nick's Fish House that has waterfront dining and a great seafood selection. It's a casual place with indoor and outdoor seating. We were really happy with our dining experience, and we'll definitely frequent again during the summer. Here are some pictures from the meal:</div>
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Good lord I need a haircut</div>
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Kent started with the Maryland crab soup</div>
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My mom ordered a crab cake and sweet potato fries</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtH_ekJRa4zkra2oCeZWk8UYgm6wbBnf0Peq4nlIMG3DGLC4KqVM1hYsN8Fm2TicQBAwnhDW7M7bZwmrVeR3UlVNQiuL8-nix5HyERYxnXGlQIXDES0oF9CeJWSxZY6hautXzPd4roSTwX/s1600/DSC03628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtH_ekJRa4zkra2oCeZWk8UYgm6wbBnf0Peq4nlIMG3DGLC4KqVM1hYsN8Fm2TicQBAwnhDW7M7bZwmrVeR3UlVNQiuL8-nix5HyERYxnXGlQIXDES0oF9CeJWSxZY6hautXzPd4roSTwX/s640/DSC03628.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had the Seafood Cobb Salad- egg, cucumber, bacon, avocado, & tomatoes topped with jumbo lump crab and shrimp</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAItcHZVpGIJi4jUuCEql3_EtzYPffFeo-w-eomKCPrGqC8wW77ey7Ze4jinChTTH0OJB0YryvJG9gTxp4YqwYk6jlZShUSghtOyBwRXaw9nvo8MbASqA8XstNTqL5NX24tKMwwKE9Nu5v/s1600/DSC03629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAItcHZVpGIJi4jUuCEql3_EtzYPffFeo-w-eomKCPrGqC8wW77ey7Ze4jinChTTH0OJB0YryvJG9gTxp4YqwYk6jlZShUSghtOyBwRXaw9nvo8MbASqA8XstNTqL5NX24tKMwwKE9Nu5v/s640/DSC03629.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Kent's entree was the Crab Grilled Cheese Sandwich</div>
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The night quickly grew chilly, so we hurried home as soon as we were done eating. I didn't even order dessert; that's how cold I was. The remainder of the night was spent watching HGTV. Not exciting, but perfectly acceptable to me. </div>
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This morning my mom and I enjoyed a trip to the grocery store. Kent has been going with me lately to help with the number of bags I have to walk home, so it was nice to have a shopping buddy who wasn't so irked by my constant changes in direction. Our afternoon consisted of a walk at a nearby park and typical Sunday chores. We drove my mom to the airport late afternoon, then I headed to the gym for a good run that wasn't. I think all of the walking aggravated my knee because I couldn't run for more than two minutes without a sharp pain. I had been looking forward to this run all weekend (and I really needed a hard workout after my weekend gluttony), so I was disappointed that I had to move over to the elliptical for less impact. Meh, it happens. I can adapt. I'm hoping a run will be possible tomorrow, so we'll see.</div>
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As far as tonight goes, I'm looking forward to Mad Men. The season opener was good, so I hope that this season delivers. I love how they're still making January Jones fat Betty. Lots of good story lines taking place, so I'm excited to see how they play out. </div>
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I have a healthy treat to share this week, so stay turned. I hope everyone has a good week!</div>
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<br />Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-34610688448553603512013-04-12T20:11:00.000-04:002013-04-12T20:11:00.808-04:00friday favoritesFriday! I'm so happy it's finally here. The weather was beautiful and warm all week long, but of course storms rolled in over night and brought cooler temperatures to the area for the weekend. Sixty degrees will feel mighty chilly in comparison to the summer weather we experienced just yesterday. I never put my boots away, so not a huge deal. My mom arrived last night to visit us for a long weekend. We have plans to eat well and walk around the city. I'm looking forward to dining tonight at a nice restaurant that we lived by during our days in corporate housing. My workouts suffered during the week as a result of transitioning back to work mode, so I'm also excited to get my sweat on.<br />
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Here are some of my favorite finds from this week (click on gray link for source):<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite indulgence: </b><a href="http://www.confessionsofacookbookqueen.com/2013/04/mounds-layer-cake/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Mounds Layer Cake</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. If you saw my <a href="http://runsonsundae.blogspot.com/2013/04/almond-joy-cookies.html"><b><span style="color: #666666;">almond joy cookies</span></b></a> the other week, you know that I have a weakness for chocolate and coconut. Well, not unlike chocolate and peanut butter and all sweet combinations, but I really enjoy this flavor pairing. This cake looks and sounds phenomenal. Dark chocolate cake, coconut filling that resembles the filling of a mounds candy bar, coconut buttercream, and a dark chocolate ganache coating. Want. Badly.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcmXtELPn2jLQK0suKl5VwiCp2P0wRwt3b7gprVVX5DDyTzyUtYGw3lGafzvlu2LqkUqh2mtzs2cvTakx0TA_hi8Ezc3a8hdjQ_s9FRvMdHgSYpn3DNXFLSbJJrDE1qy3IhG7P9BSUSBT/s1600/8635670854_ae58604a74_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBcmXtELPn2jLQK0suKl5VwiCp2P0wRwt3b7gprVVX5DDyTzyUtYGw3lGafzvlu2LqkUqh2mtzs2cvTakx0TA_hi8Ezc3a8hdjQ_s9FRvMdHgSYpn3DNXFLSbJJrDE1qy3IhG7P9BSUSBT/s640/8635670854_ae58604a74_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite DIY: </b><a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/2013/04/11/diy-ever-changing-wall-art/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Ever Changing Wall Art</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I think this is self-explanatory, but what a simple and creative idea. Just buy a frame, twine, and some clips. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfaA71-7QUU_by0W_2NO0YsDrUWqjzbV7dLMu5MyHeg8BwE1DJO9fjLCQKMDwHRjEDL0zxOQPNawxVL2JoE3ZnT9SkB6-JnCB6vRvJES5x2bD5pRPLpcqi1zr_ZssyUStYsDdJ9ds4wFF/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-04-11+at+8.26.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfaA71-7QUU_by0W_2NO0YsDrUWqjzbV7dLMu5MyHeg8BwE1DJO9fjLCQKMDwHRjEDL0zxOQPNawxVL2JoE3ZnT9SkB6-JnCB6vRvJES5x2bD5pRPLpcqi1zr_ZssyUStYsDdJ9ds4wFF/s640/Screen+Shot+2013-04-11+at+8.26.39+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite meal: </b><a href="http://www.foodiecrush.com/2013/04/cobb-grilled-cheese/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Cobb Grilled Cheese</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Did you know that today is National Grilled Cheese Day? If I celebrated this event, then I think I would choose this to eat.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipd5boe9FyC8ax3J8XdJI6sCzSNV0kKzg5uv93qpg2oZI2qQlkfvqHBphXZfR7y2WiAH44NttJanqkb8K34bLLyVmFRj25AGRfZTk5GRsMxLiuTXrxZqbgGsHq8Alfo8_lQs6Ed8BSp4rz/s1600/Cobb-Grilled-Cheese-FoodieCrush.com-010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipd5boe9FyC8ax3J8XdJI6sCzSNV0kKzg5uv93qpg2oZI2qQlkfvqHBphXZfR7y2WiAH44NttJanqkb8K34bLLyVmFRj25AGRfZTk5GRsMxLiuTXrxZqbgGsHq8Alfo8_lQs6Ed8BSp4rz/s640/Cobb-Grilled-Cheese-FoodieCrush.com-010.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite look: </b><a href="http://prepaganda.tumblr.com/image/38940455763" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Spring Layers</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. While I rarely find myself in layers, I love when I see girls layering pieces that can be used to create several different outfits. The colors, textures, and patterns used here create a cohesive and fresh spring look.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzI8uBHqaAb0VyNUeHuFVpmlQHfAsiyH9iZlD5OHQ-JNPcNnebSEf-aMTwdadjq8bpahm6fwx9VD9K36Rqc_U1cqqi_7dWrfgRFckrVyRJnN_OaA093L9TRRdyCJZzTmcWhUVAruSLcS4u/s1600/tumblr_mfmk3gIFw21qfrtudo1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzI8uBHqaAb0VyNUeHuFVpmlQHfAsiyH9iZlD5OHQ-JNPcNnebSEf-aMTwdadjq8bpahm6fwx9VD9K36Rqc_U1cqqi_7dWrfgRFckrVyRJnN_OaA093L9TRRdyCJZzTmcWhUVAruSLcS4u/s640/tumblr_mfmk3gIFw21qfrtudo1_1280.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite funny: </b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ColumbiaCollege1754?fref=ts" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Columbia College References Mad Men</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. You don't see too much humor coming out of the Ivy League, so I appreciated this comedic effort. I wish my experience reading Dante's Inferno was on a beach.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYVWvDBgg_Ew2GHOrvlAj5hv7-PP9HEVNQYKn0foV4dLYxXSYGZ9CTJxtLKtl4JpPM2o-J2YU5zfljoV3MIuyG_lfB3iX2fKCOdquRO9YxJnSsXxUEaA5vIPPTPlSk0edB8mwmLNsuKQT/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-04-11+at+9.33.36+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYVWvDBgg_Ew2GHOrvlAj5hv7-PP9HEVNQYKn0foV4dLYxXSYGZ9CTJxtLKtl4JpPM2o-J2YU5zfljoV3MIuyG_lfB3iX2fKCOdquRO9YxJnSsXxUEaA5vIPPTPlSk0edB8mwmLNsuKQT/s640/Screen+Shot+2013-04-11+at+9.33.36+PM.png" width="578" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite bite </b><a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2013/04/10/thai-steak-lettuce-wraps/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Thai Steak Lettuce Wraps</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I have been pinning so many recipes lately that infuse Thai flavors. These sound like an easy and delicious way to attempt my first Thai dish.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEQnjz_fyU-fy5bX-R02XOxu_YfMiWtJVimQyif4hyz057ZmhrQpLAJw4yvPNAttbRz4VQEni1_nPsYYEHfmkcdBrZaI-NaVA2PW8sHSGwzgsezwe7nxR1HhCMKSQ3x6hJAVDBSP6fg7o/s1600/Thai-Steak-Lettuce-Wraps-02_mini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEQnjz_fyU-fy5bX-R02XOxu_YfMiWtJVimQyif4hyz057ZmhrQpLAJw4yvPNAttbRz4VQEni1_nPsYYEHfmkcdBrZaI-NaVA2PW8sHSGwzgsezwe7nxR1HhCMKSQ3x6hJAVDBSP6fg7o/s640/Thai-Steak-Lettuce-Wraps-02_mini.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite concept: </b><a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/whatsnew/crafts-projects/dog-crate-bumper-pads-sewing-pattern.html?_szp=282433" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Dog Crate Bumper Pads</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Dog crates look so uncomfortable and cold for your loving family member. Here's a stylish and inviting home for your pup. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoam68qZVOXbtFblFJkh27KFXCAy3WgxW4zAq8Lv6GMtcCWebjm0a65agT_f_amJyvxb2AdsNn-D22NioVdXgQ6TcOr8c67DjgP0vZcIX-M-rQXSAkuk7YDIxmNYRPKwssg2ZOm1nR8Xc/s1600/cratecovers11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoam68qZVOXbtFblFJkh27KFXCAy3WgxW4zAq8Lv6GMtcCWebjm0a65agT_f_amJyvxb2AdsNn-D22NioVdXgQ6TcOr8c67DjgP0vZcIX-M-rQXSAkuk7YDIxmNYRPKwssg2ZOm1nR8Xc/s640/cratecovers11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite sweet: </b><a href="http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2013/04/11/snickers-cake/" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Snickers Cake</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. Ok, I couldn't decide on my favorite dessert selection this week, so I had to create a new category to share this decadent cake. Here we have chocolate cake with peanut nougat filling and salted butter cream frosting topped with a milk chocolate ganache and garnished with chopped peanuts. Amazing.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlG8kw7HX2ZsiS1W5OithS-pJpxsC8wDvHHyxp35xwP1NCyzSVBf3a0jgZUR8WAC11SeQ8fG_3oSJb_t3eY0HCC6E3ggudjMFaTUij8VywXaoAut10VfUQNKjvOEBLODosDH7aGwhFx_i/s1600/snickers-cake-48-600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlG8kw7HX2ZsiS1W5OithS-pJpxsC8wDvHHyxp35xwP1NCyzSVBf3a0jgZUR8WAC11SeQ8fG_3oSJb_t3eY0HCC6E3ggudjMFaTUij8VywXaoAut10VfUQNKjvOEBLODosDH7aGwhFx_i/s640/snickers-cake-48-600.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite read: </b><a href="http://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/diet-tips/ask-diet-doctor-eating-too-much-protein-waste" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Is Eating Too Much Protein a Waste?</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I thought that this was an interesting article written by Dr. Mike Roussell who is a health contributor for Shape Magazine. Protein is such an important part of diet and fitness, so I think it's useful to understand how it functions in the body. I've heard from several sources that you shouldn't eat more than 30g of protein per meal, indicating that eating too much protein is bad for you, but it actually can provide your body with benefits. It's a quick read, so take a look if you're interested. </span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Favorite quote: </b><a href="http://goodbyebabylon.tumblr.com/page/2" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">You Can Do This</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. I think this attitude can apply to anyone's morning. Whether you're waking up to work out or go to work, we all have those mornings where we're completely lacking motivation, but just remind yourself of this. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Have a great weekend everyone!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2036961689403893189.post-40391201316468843372013-04-11T12:14:00.000-04:002013-04-11T12:14:27.265-04:00cake batter chocolate chip cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVtU6y_6EEQjSeDrxJJX_QbU8ln8sDporqNL4vn2FXfGEDqYio4rvnV0nHrrWkWjnEDf9FndbPo9sPb0jkonv202V4mxA8bg0EDuVuAfWlAkrBS3vKEg87IFQKEg5gkj3ubCe8iN6A9Jm/s1600/DSC03504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVtU6y_6EEQjSeDrxJJX_QbU8ln8sDporqNL4vn2FXfGEDqYio4rvnV0nHrrWkWjnEDf9FndbPo9sPb0jkonv202V4mxA8bg0EDuVuAfWlAkrBS3vKEg87IFQKEg5gkj3ubCe8iN6A9Jm/s640/DSC03504.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We received a preview of summer this week. The temperature hit 88 degrees yesterday, and it felt like a scorcher. For a rare sight, my car dashboard read that my tire pressure was too <i>high. </i>I can't win with this jeep I tell you. We're considering downsizing to one car because we rarely use our cars now that we're city dwellers. The idea of only have one car makes me slightly uneasy as the reality of it might not be as great as the theory, but we'll see. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmsSSaqYc8NHWOkWRA8WGBavqSq81mbxeKsiOYOcNKjETFFOm_Ku0HRvkmOHq2RrQLhbqV7dZSQrOoBc64SpfPTkmNzoJOqphJr02ZjgqH1tVGtsHeC3A5EV4Dw0kcSP8Z5YN6EbMxh-J9/s1600/DSC03543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmsSSaqYc8NHWOkWRA8WGBavqSq81mbxeKsiOYOcNKjETFFOm_Ku0HRvkmOHq2RrQLhbqV7dZSQrOoBc64SpfPTkmNzoJOqphJr02ZjgqH1tVGtsHeC3A5EV4Dw0kcSP8Z5YN6EbMxh-J9/s640/DSC03543.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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These cookies on the other hand <i>are</i> great. They're delicious! I was so pleased with the cake flavor. It's not overpowering, yet very much present in every bite. I was unsure if the overall taste would be too sweet with the chocolate chips, but it is the perfect balance of sweetness. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNz3AC3IHfWD_4QQZFNZyMroGGzIbb96tfz2pZEHIxBKW616Z7ZJoKS5QxalZjgOtHqBgrI4Aqg0bwDB8ZlnyY1RWyZ5DGL_UJLr8FxK6qKU0MC4pLYWtRorMJRWFzMOEe4VaD4WMUGZSA/s1600/DSC03483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNz3AC3IHfWD_4QQZFNZyMroGGzIbb96tfz2pZEHIxBKW616Z7ZJoKS5QxalZjgOtHqBgrI4Aqg0bwDB8ZlnyY1RWyZ5DGL_UJLr8FxK6qKU0MC4pLYWtRorMJRWFzMOEe4VaD4WMUGZSA/s640/DSC03483.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I decided to try something new for this post. A behind the scenes look at the step by step process of making these treats.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkyyEl977V0Dg0EE1Dr5b2bxPLaR1t0vCa9l4lGa6nAiZJXQshn4MO1NZZBi7kCiLa3-0f9_7Y5iWZDVwhpiENI9i-pa8rFXs6EUuVJxEn7r7kZNt7ZrqL6-rOmIzRjllQZJyznClP2sla/s1600/DSC03484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkyyEl977V0Dg0EE1Dr5b2bxPLaR1t0vCa9l4lGa6nAiZJXQshn4MO1NZZBi7kCiLa3-0f9_7Y5iWZDVwhpiENI9i-pa8rFXs6EUuVJxEn7r7kZNt7ZrqL6-rOmIzRjllQZJyznClP2sla/s640/DSC03484.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pay close attention to how tall these dough balls are. You want them to be taller than they are wide.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTKYl_ZIJujc5YR5kyufIHf4dMySXsxHPM9xPV1thwckPw4CjvqPoRvW-Ef0gL_LfmHouKEsenjcHb1o7aI8SdAclYn_ZgBNxGNNvxceJQibuusa2hBpZAXWICu9biFaq1PglsPhkYWUcS/s1600/DSC03496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTKYl_ZIJujc5YR5kyufIHf4dMySXsxHPM9xPV1thwckPw4CjvqPoRvW-Ef0gL_LfmHouKEsenjcHb1o7aI8SdAclYn_ZgBNxGNNvxceJQibuusa2hBpZAXWICu9biFaq1PglsPhkYWUcS/s640/DSC03496.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBseCUcXuVS-536QrRVdtsZb4FF9A6EYTlvi52vffELpiWkNrAr2vCaJvHEmo_P2QFoeUY2Is8Hq7PyabFIVhC5X4HdRP3Bkvf4n-L5PoePLzJbxZ1nIs3Uji7xGVWx8hfoeGoSA1odVS/s1600/DSC03509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBseCUcXuVS-536QrRVdtsZb4FF9A6EYTlvi52vffELpiWkNrAr2vCaJvHEmo_P2QFoeUY2Is8Hq7PyabFIVhC5X4HdRP3Bkvf4n-L5PoePLzJbxZ1nIs3Uji7xGVWx8hfoeGoSA1odVS/s640/DSC03509.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-NTK-t8zH93-eE9vqaYAMk1LCh2LJz3vRPwhf1_JMcaeS8db6PBfMIfriKY4db2qfNE6ZyX7sCuKLFTqWRDPtnxRO7voeYqn-jneTOg9kbdnqofO2-RgWjBnENq5Os0h8uMN7jU0fxaJR/s1600/DSC03534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-NTK-t8zH93-eE9vqaYAMk1LCh2LJz3vRPwhf1_JMcaeS8db6PBfMIfriKY4db2qfNE6ZyX7sCuKLFTqWRDPtnxRO7voeYqn-jneTOg9kbdnqofO2-RgWjBnENq5Os0h8uMN7jU0fxaJR/s640/DSC03534.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMryAVk8wfVFxJ6cv3v6CBLkpb8KClarXSbZY1pXNWAq6NOgEoZjHTCvHpcA7gs6yA5OljuZjDnhVLeuu-9akpPByWOWdvQrVCzIKejxIhJaxNx7IsUu1tYze6whv0RteG81B-ubdk6Q76/s1600/DSC03547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMryAVk8wfVFxJ6cv3v6CBLkpb8KClarXSbZY1pXNWAq6NOgEoZjHTCvHpcA7gs6yA5OljuZjDnhVLeuu-9akpPByWOWdvQrVCzIKejxIhJaxNx7IsUu1tYze6whv0RteG81B-ubdk6Q76/s640/DSC03547.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. The ratio of flour to butter is higher than normal, so they don't keep chewy for too long. Not a problem in my house as cookies disappear within 48 hours (even this is stretching it), but I just wanted to warn you that their shelf life isn't as long as most cookies, so eat up or share them!</div>
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<b>Cake Batter Chocolate Chip Cookies</b></div>
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1 1/4 cup all purpose flour</div>
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1 1/4 cup yellow boxed cake mix</div>
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1/2 tsp baking soda</div>
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3/4 cup butter, softened </div>
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1/2 cup sugar</div>
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1/2 cup brown sugar, packed</div>
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1 egg</div>
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1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract</div>
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1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips</div>
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1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles</div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees</div>
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In bowl of standing mixer, cream butter and sugars together until light and fluffy</div>
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In medium bowl, whisk together flour, cake mix, and baking soda</div>
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Add egg and vanilla extract to sugar mixture and beat until combined</div>
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Slowly add dry ingredients to wet mixture and mix until just combined</div>
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Stir in chocolate chips and rainbow sprinkles, do not overmix</div>
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Refrigerate dough for at least thirty minutes</div>
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Scoop tablespoon size balls onto cookie trays; shape balls to be taller than they are wide</div>
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges become lightly browned</div>
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Allow to cool on cookie trays for several minutes before moving to wired rack to cool completely</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<i>Source <a href="http://sallysbakingaddiction.com/2012/12/09/recipe-round-2-cake-batter-chocolate-chip-cookies/">Sally's Baking Addiction</a></i></div>
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<br />Rachel Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928487201487542603noreply@blogger.com0