Katherines Corner blog has moved

Please Join Me At The New Location

2011-09-23T18:57:00.003-06:00

Please click the image or CLICK HERE to join us at the new location

Put a bow on it!

2011-04-02T16:12:00.002-06:00

You know when people say "put a fork in it" ( it's done)? Well, I'm putting a bow on it! It just seems more fitting that way.
I am done chasing my tail ( I can't catch it!) I've been trying to let everyone know this blog has moved without disturbing the giveaway in progress and it has me shouting "Stop The Insanity" ( remember Susan Powter?).

So I stray completely away from my original plan to "double blog it" and I bring you this important message.

All new blogs are now posted at Katherine's Corner's new home.

How will this effect the giveaway you ask? It won't! I have all entries from this blog recorded already. Just click here to enter the giveaway and then please head over HERE to follow along with the new blog. So much more will be happening there!
Meanwhile I will continue notifying each of you individually until you all find your way to the new digs.
I think this will be easier for everyone.I hope you agree. See you soon!
With heartfelt appreciation and

Kitchen Change Up Finale

2011-04-01T02:44:00.009-06:00

Well it's the big taa daa moment.
I've finished with the kitchen changes. It feels light and springy and I really like it! I liked the old Tuscan look but this one is definitely turning out to be my favorite. Here are the before and afters.
What do you think?

The top of the cabinets Before

Rust and golds and I do love the long scrolled Italian planter in the middle

The top of the cabinets After

I bought that lovely antique white bicycle planter years ago ( top left),

and now it has a home on top of the cabinets holding some lovely greenery

Counter one Before

Simple and nice, only thing missing was a cake in the cake plate.

Counter one After

Now a little something extra, but no cake in the plate here either.

Hmm, might be time to break out the mixer.

Counter two Before

Simple again, but I love that plate!

My husband bought it for me at an art show years ago. Love it!

Counter two After

Loving this giant glass holder. I filled it with lovely greens and whites.

The green plate was another gift from my husband.

A very talented potter in our area uses natural elements to create his art.I love this too.

There are leaf imprints in it.

Here's a close up.

I'm also making a few changes in the dining room too.

The buffet Before

The buffet After

Oh and here are the kitchen mats you can't see in the final photo. I added new curtains in the dining room too. So that's it. Now I need to create a nice centerpiece for the dining table.

For more of my kitchen change up please Click Here and Here

Don't forget to join me at the new location Katherine's Corner.com this post is there too and I'd love it if you left your comments there.

Dot Com

2011-03-31T03:33:00.002-06:00

You all know how happy and sincerely grateful I am to have so many lovely followers.
You honor me and I am humbled by your friendship and participation!
Would you be willing to follow me if I moved this blog to a dot com?
I sure hope so.... I am merging this blog onto KatherinesCorner.com.
Unfortunately the merge does not allow me to bring my followers along too.
I ask you all to follow me there too. Please! Pretty please!

Don't forget to enter the contest that celebrates YOU!!!!!!!!!

If you currently have my button on your blog will you please replace it with the new codes ( I have changed my buttons on this blog). I will continue to post HERE and at the KatherinesCorner.com until all of you have made it to my new location.

Wordless Wednesday Tranquility

2011-03-30T02:50:00.001-06:00

Please follow me HERE too!

High School Memories

2011-03-29T03:21:00.004-06:00

I thought this would be fun. I've listed a few things about me from high school. I loved going to school, it was my sanctuary. I was a sponge, I still am. I loved learning!

I'm hoping you will list a few things you remember from high school too.
Okay here goes....

I didn't belong to any one particular group of friends. I was friends with everyone. The brains, the jocks, the parking lot crew, the quiet ones, the loud ones, the artists and the theater crowd.

I took college courses while in high school.

I created artwork for the school magazine.

I never bought lunch from the cafeteria.

I used to speak French, Spanish and Turkish

I loved classic films and jazz music

I took extra credit courses during the summer. One year I spent three weeks recording deer droppings for the wildlife resources department!

Yes that's my high school graduation photo! Okay now its your turn!

Read 25 things you probably don't know about me HERE

Please follow me HERE too , thank you

Meatless Monday Recipe Katie's Spinach Omelet Roll

2011-03-28T03:43:00.024-06:00

Sorry about the photo it is an old one from my photo album ( I thought I was going to write a cookbook someday)

What You’ll Need
12 Eggs separated (yolks in one bowl whites in another)
1 Cup milk
2 10 oz packages frozen spinach (chopped)
1 Cup swiss cheese (shredded)
2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp all purpose white flour
½ tsp Salt
½ tsp Black pepper
1 Cup salsa (your favorite) or fresh tomatoes and onions (chopped)
Non stick cooking Spray
15 ½ x 10 ½ Jelly Roll Pan
Wax Paper
Saucepan
Whisk
1 Medium mixing bowl
1 Large mixing bowl
Hand mixer
Cloth towel
Before You Start: Line jelly roll pan with wax paper and spray with cooking spray. Preheat oven to 350°.

Let’s Make It! In a saucepan over medium high melt butter, and add flour, milk, salt and pepper, whisk well to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened. Reduce heat to low. In a medium mixing bowl whisk egg yolks well.

Slowly add egg yolks to saucepan mixture and increase heat to medium low, stir often and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and allow to cool for about 15 minutes. In a large bowl beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Using a rubber spatula gently fold the cooled yolk mixture into the egg whites.

Spread into jelly roll pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Prepare spinach according to package directions and drain well. Place a clean cloth towel onto your counter and invert the omelet onto the towel. Peel away the wax paper. Spread spinach evenly over the omelet, sprinkle evenly with cheese, and roll up. Cut into slices and serve with salsa( or chopped tomatoes and onions) on the side.

Serves 4-6

**Katie’s Tid Bits** Need it quicker? Use leftover spinach. Make and omelet in your skillet as usual, spoon in leftover spinach, (cooked bacon if you don't want it meatless) and cheese. Fold and eat.

Please follow me HERE too , thank you

Giveaway, Celebration, Win It

2011-03-26T03:06:00.002-06:00

We did it! Katherine's Corner has 1500 followers! I am over the moon, thrilled , grateful beyond words, I am gob smacked and just plain joy filled!

Thank you to all of you for your friendship, your participation and for making my blog such a great place to spend time.

With my appreciation I present you with the newest giveaway.

The prize is a fun ( adult sized) apron covered with sweet donuts treats, a tea towel covered in loving thoughts, a cute as can be little bird note holder and two sweet flower kitchen magnets made by yours truly!

Okay here are the rules ( we must have a few)

For One Entry- Mandatory- You must be a Katherine’s Corner blog follower ( please also follow at the new location) to enter.Please leave a comment that you are a follower here and at the new location.

For One Entry -Tweet about this giveaway and leave a comment with the link ( only one tweet per day please)

For One Entry -Post this giveaway on facebook and leave a comment where I can find it ( one per day please)

For Two Entries -Post the giveaway button on your blog sidebar and comment that you’ve posted it and where I can find it.

For Three Entries-Visit one of my online shops Blue Iris Gifts, shop Polka Dots , Be Well Gifts My Online Avon Shop or Gifts By Katherine and leave a comment about something you like.

For Three Entries- Have a friend become a follower. They need to leave a comment saying you sent them.
That’s it lots of ways to enter.

Do one, or do them All.

Good Luck!
For your own internet safety please DO NOT leave your email address on your comment. If your email is not provided on your profile please check back at the end of the giveaway to see who wins . I will contact you if your email is available. If not please contact me if you are the winner.
You will have 72 hours to claim the prize or a second drawing will be held.

Grab the Giveaway Button!

Starts today Saturday March 26th and ends at midnight Friday April 15th.
Drawing for the winner through random.org.

Please follow me HERE too , thank you

Giveaway, I Won and You Can Too

2011-03-24T03:16:00.001-06:00

Many Thanks to Nancy at The Brambleberry Cottage for her recent giveaway.
I won a $40 CSN gift card!

I ordered this Simple Human Sensor Soap Dispenser

I think it'll be great in the kitchen. You all know how much I love to cook! No more touching the faucet handles with yucky (yes I said yucky) hands. I'll probably write a review on this product in the future.

Now on to You winning something. I am so incredibly grateful that Katherine's Corner is sooo very close to the 1500 follower goal. I can barely contain myself. So as a little motivation I thought I'd post a little peek at the prize I'm giving away. Here is the tease, giggle just a peek at the main prize , invite your friends to join us and help get to the 1500 followers goal!

Please follow me HERE too , thank you

Wordless Wednesday Rustic Elegance

2011-03-23T03:07:00.000-06:00

Dear Katie Exfoliate

2011-03-22T06:14:00.000-06:00

Dear Katie, Can you tell me how to cure my dry itchy winter skin? Thanks Ruthie

Dear Ruthie, the dry heat, cold, and wind of winter can wreak havoc on your skin. Using a humidifier and drinking plenty of water help. But don't forget the importance of regular exfoliation ( an important part of your skin care regimen) and moisturize, moisturize moisturize! Keeping your skin hydrated is a year round objective.You don't need to buy expensive things to help your skin feel great.

Keep your "hot" showers and baths to a minimum.
Buy an inexpensive exfoliating mit, glove, or pad ( see photo below).
Use a mild cleanser ( look for a cleanser made with moisturizers).

You can make your own inexpensive exfoliate by combining 2 rounded Tbsp of oatmeal, 1 tsp of baking soda and a little bit of water in a bowl. Mix the oatmeal and baking soda together and add enough water to make a sticky paste. Double the ingredients if you need more. Gently scrub your face and body in circular motions, massaging it onto your skin.Then rinse it off with lukewarm water, end with a splash of cold water and pat your skin dry, then moisturize!

Ruthie, if your dry skin persists, or if you have itchy red patches, or unusual looking dry spots, please see your health care provider. Thank you for your question

Meatless Monday Banana Cake

2011-03-21T00:31:00.001-06:00

One of my husbands favorites!

What You Need

* Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

4 Tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature

2 Tbsp vegetable oil

3/4 cup sugar

2 large eggs plus 1 large egg white, at room temperature

1 tsp vanilla extract

4 large ripe bananas

1/4 cup milk

* Frosting:

4 oz. cream cheese (at room temperature)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar

2 Tbsp chopped toasted walnuts (optional)

8 inch baking pan

Non stick cooking spray

Potato masher

Large mixing bowl

2 Medium mixing bowls

Wire cooling rack

Electric mixer

Before You Start: Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray baking pan with cooking spray.

Let’s Make It: Combine flour, baking powder and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl combine butter, oil and sugar and mix well using an electric mixer. Beat in eggs and egg white, then vanilla. In a separate bowl using a fork or potato masher, mash bananas with milk. Stir half of dry ingredients into butter mixture, then stir in banana mixture. Mix in remaining dry ingredients. Pour batter into baking pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean. Let cake cool in pan on a wire rack. Make frosting- With an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and vanilla. Reduce speed and gradually beat in confectioners' sugar. Spread cake with frosting and sprinkle with walnuts, if desired.

Serves 12

Spring Has Sprung or Dirt Under My Nails

2011-03-20T04:02:00.000-06:00

Spring has sprung.

" Spring Is Calling", and we answered the call!

Sparky turned the soil and I planted the seeds.

There's something truly wonderful about the scent of fresh turned earth.

Together we covered them up. Prefect team work!

We plan to build a second box garden this year.

But the peas are always the first thing to be planted.

So, it's official, spring has sprung, and the peas are in!!!!

My spring blooms are reaching for the sunshine, look at these lovelies.

I hear spring calling you too. Will you answer?

Happy Spring!

Kitchen Change Up Part Two and Hydrangea Topiary Craft

2011-03-18T02:01:00.001-06:00

You saw the craft pile ( inspiration from Wordless Wednesday below). Well I was inspired. I made a lovely hydrangea topiary for the kitchen change up.

Before

After

Now Let's Make that cute Hydrangea Topiary!

Hydrangea Topiary

What You Need

Styrofoam Ball ( you decide what size, mine is 4 inches in diameter)

Toothpicks

Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Wire cutters

Silk flowers ( hydrangea) you will need enough to cover the ball. (a four inch ball used 65 petals)

Green paint

Paint brush

Cardboard box (empty shoe box or empty egg carton)

Lets Make It

Poke a toothpick into the styrofoam ball (this will be your handle when you have painted most of the ball) paint your styrofoam ball to match ( or come close to) the color of your flower petals ( mine are pale green).

Poke it into a cardboard box, egg carton or other container to hold the ball upright while it dries.

Remove the hydrangea petals using your wire cutters, leaving about a 1/4 inch stem.

After the ball has dried, heat up your glue gun, poke a small hole in the styrofoam with the tooth pick, dip the end of your petal stem into the glue and poke it into the hole, push gently. I think it works best to work in a random pattern as you cover the ball with petals rather than in rows. But this is your choice. Do not put your hot glue gun directly onto the styrofoam ball it will melt. Continue covering the ball. ( if you want to hang it be sure to leave a little space to attach the ribbon and then cover it with petals).

That’s it! Oh so simple. Or as we say in our home, easy peasy! Now you can make several and put them in bowls, or scatter them about, place one on top of a candle holder like I did, or hang it from a ribbon.

Happy Saint Patricks Day an Irish Blessing

2011-03-17T05:38:00.000-06:00

“May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.”

Wordless Wednesday Inspiration

2011-03-16T04:18:00.001-06:00

What Can You Do

2011-03-15T07:27:00.000-06:00

The disaster in Japan and the pacific is clearly on all of our minds. For those of you who read my blog regularly you know that it is a "close to home" issue for me. My beautiful sister June and her family live in Tokyo. They are safe. But the news coming from Japan continues to be terrible. The Tsunami is now being overshadowed by the unprecedented breakdown of four nuclear reactors. Although the feeling of helplessness can easily overcome me there is something I can do.

America is sending urgently needed funds and help to Japan. You can contribute to by going to the official American Red Cross website. Please remember when any tragedy occurs there are unscrupulous people who will take advantage of your good intentions. Please be sure to make your contributions to a verified "official site" . If you can not help monetarily your prayers are worth more than gold.

Meatless Monday Twisted Peas and Rice

2011-03-14T05:11:00.002-06:00

I'm starting something new this week, " Meatless Monday" Recipes. I will still share recipes with meat in them though. Just thought this would be fun for a while.
What You’ll Need
1 1/2 Cups Edamame ( it’s okay to use frozen just thaw first)
4 1/2 Cups vegetable broth
1 medium white onion
2 Tbsp olive oil (not extra virgin)
2 Cups white rice (uncooked *not instant)
1 Lemon (washed and zested)
1 Tbsp tarragon (chopped)
1 Cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Black pepper
Large saucepan with lid
Lemon zester ( or grater)
Before You Start remove edamame beans from pods

Let’s Make It! Place olive oil in saucepan, add onion and cook over medium heat until soft (about 4 to 5 minutes), stir in the vegetable broth, slowly add the rice stirring well, reduce heat to medium and cover with the lid , cook on low for about 25 minutes ( or until the rice absorbs all of the broth). Remove from heat and add, Edamame, lemon zest, tarragon, 3/4 cup of parmesan ( reserve the rest for topping) salt and pepper and toss together well. Sprinkle with remaining parmesan. cheese when you serve it.
Serves 4

Kitchen Change Up Part One

2011-03-11T04:14:00.002-07:00

Every once in a while I like to change things up around the house. My husband ( Sparky) doesn't understand it, but that's okay. giggle. As long as I stay out of his garage, he is loved and fed, he doesn't care how I decorate. LOL.

Right now I'm focusing on the kitchen. We've had a rust and gold color scheme and a Tuscan kind of feel throughout for quite some time now. I am leaning towards antique whites and light greens with this change up.
When I'm out and about at the shops I often find things on sale that I like. I just tuck them away until the mood strikes me to make some changes.

I decided to blog about the change up at the last minute, fun right? I always enjoy reading the blog posts and seeing the photos when you decorate. Let me apologize up front for neglecting to straighten the mat in the before shot. Planning would have prevented that.

I'm breaking the posts up into parts. It seems so much more dramatic and "taa daa" worthy that way.

I started with the top of the fridge. An often unnoticed area.

Before: warm rich colors

After: light with a spring time touch.

Little changes can make a big difference.

Did you notice the chopsticks in the planter pots? I reuse everything! The wood rabbit on the right side was carved by Sparky's Grandfather. He made it many years ago as a gift for his Grandmother. She bequeathed it to Sparky when she passed away. I love it! So that's part one, little mini taa daa!

Wordless Wednesday Beauty In Thorny Places

2011-03-09T05:20:00.000-07:00

Button

2011-03-07T16:52:00.005-07:00

I'm not sure how this post "re-posted itself". But, I'll just go with it, giggle. I'm happy to add your buttons to the blog love page. Please let me know if you post my button. Big hugs for sharing the love!
just copy and past the html code

I'm happy to add your buttons to the the blog love page. Please let me know if you post my button. Big hugs for sharing the love!

Or One Of These

OR

Or this new one!

blatant self promotion here...if you don't have a blog button MADE IT FOR YOU can help!

My Recent Merger

2011-03-07T03:01:00.003-07:00

Hello fabulous bloggy friends! I'm smiling large right now. Feeling a little giddy really. Light as air, floating on a cloud....just plain tickled.
A couple of weeks ago I invited you to join me at my new blog for my graphics website. I was thrilled that so many of you came along. Just another reason to be so darn happy. Thank you so much for your support. You are the best bunch of bloggy friends a gal could ever ask for.

This week I can hardly contain my enthusiasm as I announce yet another change. Many of you know that I have a website called Gifts By Katherine. Well I have been juggling that website and it's blog for quite some time now, and frankly, I'm a little tuckered out. So the only logical solution was to merge them together. One big happy website complete with bloggy stuff too.

Now, this in know way, will effect the joy I receive from Katherine's Corner. In fact, it's my hope that it will allow me even more time for bloggy fun here. It is one of my favorite places after all.So here it is, an invitation to join me at Gifts By Katherine . So grab my hand and lets head on over. I can't wait to hear what you think of it.

Slow Cooker Corn and Shrimp Chowder

2011-03-04T07:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's recipe had a rather luke warm reception. This slow cooker recipe is sure to be a hit!

What You Need

4 cups chicken broth

4 cups corn (fresh or frozen kernels)

1 medium onion (finely chopped)

1 red bell pepper (seeded and diced)

1/2 cup carrots (sliced thinly)

2 russet potatoes (peeled and diced)

1 bay leaf

salt and pepper

1 Lb. Medium shrimp (peeled and de-veined)

1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

slow Cooker

blender or food processor

Lets Make It! In your slow cooker combine chicken broth, corn, onion, bell pepper, carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, 1 cup water and 1 tsp. salt . Cover and cook on low until vegetables are tender, about 6 hours. Puree 3 cups of soup in a blender and return to slow cooker. Stir in shrimp. Cover and cook until shrimp are pink and firm about 10 to 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Serves-4-6

Katie’s Tid Bits* for a creamy soup add ½ a cup of heavy cream during the last five minutes the shrimp are cooking.

Parsnips the Unnoticed Vegetable Make Spicy Parsnip Pancakes

2011-03-03T03:46:00.003-07:00

What You need

1 cup parsnips (cleaned, peeled and grated)

1 tsp cumin

2 green chilies (seeded and finely chopped) your choice depending on your favorite

1 tsp ground coriander

1/2 tsp ground turmeric

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup flour

1/4 cup corn flour

1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)

1 tsp ginger (grated)

Salt and pepper

4Tbsp olive oil (not extra virgin) for frying

Nonstick Frying pan or flat griddle

Lets Make It!

In a mixing bowl combine parsnips, cumin, chilies, coriander, turmeric, baking powder, flour, corn flour, onion and ginger, salt, pepper and 1/3 cup of cold water ( dribble it in slowly you might not need all of it). Mix until a thick batter is formed. Add about I tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and heat on medium high heat. When the oil is hot, place a few large tablespoons of the mixture into the skillet to form a round pancake about 1/2 inch thick. You can cook 2 or 3 at a time and keep them warm in a low oven while you make the rest. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip over and cook the other side until browned. Should make about 8 pancakes. Serve the pancakes with the honey, honey mustard, ranch dressing ,or salsa.

Serves 2

Wordless Wednesday Lily Pad

2011-03-02T03:59:00.005-07:00

Pretty Little Boxes

2011-02-28T07:00:00.003-07:00

I had to restrain myself when I was at the shop the other day. I'm usually pretty good about buying just what is needed. I try not to stray to far from the list. But,I am drawn like a magnet to pretty boxes. I just love them. There's just something wonderful about putting something ordinary into something, well... extraordinary!

I managed to keep my money in my wallet and just ooh-ed and ahh-ed a bit.

When I came home I started looking around and realized that I really do have a lot of pretty little boxes..... everywhere. In just about every room and cupboard. I even keep my tea bags in one!

There are some in the master bath closet

Some velvet covered ones in our master clothes closet ( no you're not seeing double) I have two of the same boxes. I actually have several duplicates throughout the house.

There are some baskets too.

Some in the guest's linen closet.

I have a few baskets in the den closet holding greeting cards.

My favorite boxes have a little ribbon on them, or a beach scene ( the beach always makes me think of time well spent).

As long as there is stuff, I'm sure I'll need pretty boxes.

Do you have a lot of boxes, baskets or other containers that you like to keep things in? What draws you like a magnet when you go into the shops?

* we're only 98 followers away from a giveaway!!

Here Kitty Kitty a Teapot Cozy Craft

2011-02-26T03:33:00.011-07:00

I found this old pattern and thought those of you who enjoy sewing would like to give it a try.

What You Need
1/2 yard plain fabric

1/2 yard lining fabric

1/2 yard batting

8 inch x 4 inch contrast (fabric for the ears)

Embroidery floss (similar color to the ears looks nice)

Needle

Pins

Sewing machine

Iron, ironing towel or clean cloth

Lets Make It!

The template for the tea cozy is below. You will need to scale it to the correct size for your teapot. My tea cozy measured 12” along the bottom to fit my four cup pot.

Cut two pieces of plain fabric, two pieces of lining fabric and two pieces of batting. Then cut two 4” x 4” squares in contrasting fabric for the cat’s ears.

Using the template create the pattern onto one of your plain pieces of fabric. Stitch the features using back stitches, French knots and stem stitches. Take a moment to press the embroidered features with a towel and warm iron.

Then take one 4 inch 4 inch square of fabric and fold it in half diagonally right side out, then fold again so you have a triangle. Repeat with the other fabric square. Position your ears onto your embroidered fabric and then pin into place. The center points of the triangle should point inwards. Any raw stitches will not be noticeable after you stitch the pieces together.

Place your embroidered piece face-up, place the other plain fabric piece face-down on top of the embroidered piece and pin together. Machine stitch around the long curved edge and trims any excess fabric, particularly in the ear area, to avoid uneven bulking. Turn right-side out and set aside

Place batting on reverse side of lining fabric. Hold in place by basting a stitch along the edges ( or use temporary spray adhesive)Baste together each side with batting and lining in place. Stitch around the long curved edge leaving a 4” gap at the top to turn the cozy right side out. Trim away excess fabric/batting from the seam. Place the cozy interior inside the exterior, right sides together. Match side seams and pin the bottom edges together. Sew around the bottom edge. Turn the cozy right side out

( pull through the gap you left in the lining.) Top stitch the opening in the lining closed, and then place the lining into the exterior, pushing into place. Top stitch around the bottom seam to tidy it up.

Ta Daa you now have a cozy teapot.

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You all know how much I enjoy blogging. Sharing with you all makes me smile. With so many wonderful bloggy friends,ideas and comments shared it can make my heart sing.

Like you I'm hoping people will find my blog and in turn I'll discover new blogs too. I am always on the lookout for ways to get noticed. I tweet, not to be confused with toot. But I do that too, giggle (don't tell) and I facebook a little too. But, did you know that you can get your blog listed for free in the blog directory? The fine people of The Blog Guidebook have a section where you can list your blog! So buzz on over and add your blog to the list today!

P.S. please think of me when you're ready to redecorate your blog. Don't mind me "tooting" my own horn........Made It For You

Made It For You and You're Invited

2011-02-24T03:13:00.001-07:00

Hello sweet bloggy friends, A quick plea for help today. I created another blog called Made It For You and I sure could use some visitors.

You're invited to visit and leave a comment and maybe follow along too. Hope to see you there too.

Wordless Wednesday Blue Iris

2011-02-23T05:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Katie Velcro Fuzz

2011-02-21T03:42:00.002-07:00

Dear Katie, both of my children have velcro shoes. I have a hard time picking the sock fuzzies out of the velcro. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks Jill

Dear Jill, I found the best way to get rid of the fuzz stuck in velcro is to use a small crochet hook. It removes the fuzz easily with a few swipes of the hook end. Try to keep the velcro fastened when the shoes aren’t being worn to help avoid having to de-fuzz too often.

Thank you for your question, Katie

Our Day Out A Photo Blog

2011-02-17T01:49:00.006-07:00

Saturday we went for a drive and I always take my camera. Here are a just a few of the things we saw on our impromptu adventure. We were on the look out for America's majestic bird, the Bald Eagle.

We found him and a few friends too. I wish I had a telephoto lens on my little camera. But, as you can see from the wordless Wednesday post I was still able to catch some wonderful photos.

The bay was frozen and it was cold but we watched and waited for the sun to come up and he soon arrived with a golden eagle by his side.

It took a while for him to fly close enough for me to get a snap of him

After we were frozen through and through we headed home.

We decided to stop by the park near our home and there was a lot of activity.

I was laughing when I saw the ducks cuddled up in all of the cattail fluff.

Some of the running water and part of the pond wasn't frozen.

So Sparky couldn't resist throwing his line in the water.
So I wandered around a bit.

I found this little guy poking his head up out of the water.

Sadly just up the stream I found this.......

This chubby little guy was being shy!

As we drove home all we could say is what a blessing it is to see so much of God's handy work in one day.

Wordless Wednesday American Bald Eagle A Majestic Bird

2011-02-16T03:30:00.002-07:00

Button Swap

2011-02-15T06:29:00.006-07:00

Is anyone interested in a button swap?Please let me know if you grab my button.
Right click on the code beneath the image , click copy and paste to your blog or website.
Or highlight code and enter ctrl c and then enter ctrl v to paste it to your blog or website.

I'm happy to add your buttons to the the blog love page. Please let me know if you post my button. Big hugs for sharing the love!

Or One Of These

OR

Or this new one!

all of my buttons are created at Made It For You

*please let me know if you ever have any trouble with any of my buttons

Valentines Day Its All About Love

2011-02-14T01:55:00.001-07:00

What is it about valentines day that makes some people panic ( mostly men, sorry to those fellas who read my blog). I don't think my husband feels any pressure on valentine's day. If he does he has never expressed it.

He always picks a beautiful card and writes something sweet inside that usually makes me cry...sigh... he has a way of sharing his heart through words that always brings a tear of delight.
He usually buys me flowers. I love carnations. They are often referred to as the poor mans rose. But I just love them. He does like to give me roses too. Because he likes the tradition. Then we have a nice dinner. We either make something we both enjoy ( this year steamed crab legs and seared scallops) or he has me pick a restaurant. Easy peazy.

For me I usually make him something. His favorite over the years was a simple jar wrapped with ribbon and filled with little notes. Each note had something I love about him written on it. I think I wrote on about a hundred pieces of paper that year. I could have kept writing, but it's nice to save some things for another time. I have made cards,pies,cookies,cakes, videos, paintings,drawings,photographs, written poems, etc. He prefers something I make, and it always feels good to know that I created something just for him.

So what's the big fuss? Relax, tell someone you love them. Give them a sweet note or card and spend some quality time together. If you're feeling crafty make a little something. It'll be the best valentines day ever.

If you don't currently have a partner ( or want one) it's the perfect time to do something special for yourself. Read a great book, watch a movie, soak in the tub. The possibilities are limitless.

Happy Valentines Day everyone!

Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

2011-02-11T10:57:00.002-07:00

Two recipes this week!
What You Need

1 Cup cake flour ( you may need a pinch more if the batter looks to thin)

3/4 Cup sugar

2 Lemons ( zest only)

1 Tbsp poppy seeds (toasted)

3 eggs

1/2 Cup vanilla ( or plain) yogurt

1/2 Cup butter (melted and cooled )

Muffin tin ( 12 cup)

Muffin/Cupcake liners

Wire cooling rack

Large mixing bowl

Medium mixing bowl

Whisk

FOR THE ICING

1 Cup butter (softened)

1 3/4 Cup powdered sugar (sifted)

1 lemon ( juice only)

Yellow food coloring

Electric mixer

Piping bag with large star nozzle ( or ziplock style bag with tip cut off)

Premade icing flower, to decorate ( found in the baking aisle at your market)

Before You Start Preheat oven to 350 ° and line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper liners

Lets Make It! In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, lemon zest and poppy seeds together and mix. In a medium bowl using a whisk beat the eggs into the yogurt, add to dry ingredients , mix well and add the cooled melted butter.( If batter is to runny add a few more pinches of flour and mix well)Mix together with a whisk until smooth, then divide equally into baking cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a wooden toothpick poked in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and (tops are pale not golden)cool for 5 minutes in the muffin tin, then carefully lift onto a wire rack to finish cooling.

Make the icing

In a large bowl beat the butter on medium high speed until creamy, gradually added powdered sugar and lemon juice. Stir in a few drops of yellow food coloring.(Stir in enough food coloring for a pale lemon color) Then spoon the icing into a piping bag with a large star nozzle ( or place in a ziplock bag and twist until you have a corner tip. Cut a very small piece off of the corner.)

Pipe one spiral of icing around the edge, then pause to break the flow before moving the nozzle towards the center slightly and piping a second, smaller spiral that continues until there are no gaps in the center. Slightly rest ( make a dot) the nozzle into the icing as you stop squeezing to finish neatly. Repeat to cover all the cakes, then top with icing flower.

Serves 12

Simple Smoked Salmon Wrapped Asparagus

2011-02-10T00:05:00.000-07:00

A simple recipe that's one of our a favorites.

What You Need
   Fresh asparagus spears ( about 20 with ends trimmed)
    2 Tbsp olive oil ( not extra virgin)

    1 Tbsp fresh rosemary leaves (chopped)
    1/4 tsp salt
    1/4 tsp black pepper
    6 oz thinly sliced smoked salmon (you need one for each asparagus spear)
Non stick cooking spray

baking sheet

Before You Start Preheat the oven to 400 and spray the baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray

Let’s Make it! Lay the asparagus onto the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with rosemary, salt, and pepper. Roast until cooked ( about 10 minutes) Look for nicely browned edges. Let cool. Once the asparagus have cooled, wrap each spear in a slice of smoked salmon. Yum!

Serves 4

Wordless Wednesday In An Ivory Birdcage

2011-02-09T00:52:00.000-07:00

Dear Katie, A New Blog Feature,Remove Candle Wax

2011-02-07T00:12:00.004-07:00

Many of you know that I have a website called Go Ask Katie. It was suggested to me recently that I should include some of my questions and answers here at Katherine's Corner too. So after giving it some thought I decided to start adding Dear Katie questions here once in a while. If you enjoy it then I will continue. It was difficult to select the first question. But, I decided on this one from the House and Home Category

If you'd like to ask a question Click Here to be redirected to my website.

Dear Katie, We had a romantic candle light dinner last night. But candle wax dripped on my table cloth can you help?

Thanks Kathy

Dear Kathy, I know this may sound a bit silly. But, put the tablecloth in the freezer. The wax will freeze and it'll be easier to remove.

After a few hours. Take the tablecloth out of the freezer and using a plastic spoon or another dull utensil gently begin to scrape away the frozen wax. It will most likely just start to crumble.

If some wax still remains you will do the opposite of freezing. Heat your iron to medium high setting and place a clean dry cloth on top of the wax ( a cloth you can throw away afterward). Place the cloth on top of the wax and gently run the iron over the the cloth moving the cloth a bit with each pass until the wax is soaked into the cloth. Be careful not to transfer the wax back onto the cloth.

Then spray with a spot remover and wash normally. This should work.

I hope you'll continue to have many romantic evenings, Katie

Hey Baby Whats Your Sign

2011-02-06T02:10:00.001-07:00

I was born Nov 1^st at approximately 8:00am (this is just a guess no one knows for certain) in England 50 years ago.

Scorpio traits-

Born: October 23 – November 21

Element: Water – emotional and intuitive

Symbol: The Scorpion

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Lucky Number: 2 and 4

Special Color: Shades of red, the color of passion

More Traits:Passionate, intense, jealous, volatile, determined, loyal , emotionally profound, need to be in control, insatiable lover, passionate, relaxed exterior, intuitive, curious, complex mind, hard worker,

Best Careers: scientist, spiritual leader, mechanic, engineer, miner, policeman, psychologist, psychiatrist, reporter, lab technician, and criminologist.

Love Match: Cancer or Pisces

I’ve often read my horoscope over the years; admit it, you read yours too. I always read it at the end of the day and then compare it to the events of the day. I never really felt I had all of the Scorpio traits. But it is always fun to read.

On Jan 13, 2011 the horoscope world did a star sign swap. The Zodiac apparently made and astronomical shift in the western world. An astronomer at a planetarium in Minnesota brought to light information stating that the star signs did not match up to their zodiac signs. Apparently astrology is not predicted by the movement of the sun in relation to the stars. But, is based on the movement of the sun and planets through the seasons.

So what does this mean you may ask? It is my understanding that your sign is no longer your sign. Instead you are the sign prior to yours on the chart. So I’m no longer a Scorpio, but instead I am a Libra.

Libra Traits-

Born: September 23 – October 22

Element: Air – communicative and logical

Quality: Cardinal, the quality that signifies change and movement

Symbol: The Scales

Lucky Day: Friday

Lucky Number: 6 and 9

Special Color: Blue and lavender, the colors of harmony and refinement

More Traits:Charming, indecisive, diplomatic, easygoing, vulnerable, idealistic, seeker of balance, good in a crises, good taste, idealistic, attractive, social, indulgent with money, socially graceful, romantic

Best Career: lawyer, artist, interior decorator, banker, social worker, beautician, antiques dealer, administrator, mediator, landscaper, and academic counselor.

Love Match: Gemini or Aquarius.

Since I am clearly a bit of both, and not all of one, or the other. I'm going to start reading both horoscopes from now on. What do you think? Baby what’s your sign....now?

Ruffle Heart Craft Project

2011-02-03T00:23:00.004-07:00

What You Need

Felt (10 pieces of 12x12 squares) your color choice

Cardboard (or light wood) cut into a heart shape ( or pre-made heart shape) This project uses a cardboard heart measuring 4 ½ inches in diameter

1 piece of paper Ribbon about 8 inches

Scissors

Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Compass or something to draw a circle (use the bottom of a shot glass or something similar)

Before your Start: Draw and cut out a small circle template using your compass , shot glass or something similar that measures approximately 1 inch in diameter.

Let Make It! Lay your template onto your felt and cut out 100 felt circles (you may need more if your cardboard heart is bigger, it takes about 6-8 circles to fill approximately a 2 inch area. Heat your glue gun. Glue your ribbon onto each side of the heart to form a loop. To make the ruffles fold a circle in half and then in half again. Place a dollop of glue on the bottom (see image below) .

Apply the felt ruffle to your cardboard cutout ruffle side up. Continue this process until your heart is covered. This takes time. Snuggle each piece up against each other (not to snug) and move across the cardboard heart until it is completely filled.

Then cover the edges using the same method. Turn the heart over and repeat on the back. Hang it up for Valentine ’s Day or just because.

*Katie’s Tid Bits Add a little bit of glitter to the edges of some of the ruffles for a little extra sparkle.

Wordless Wednesday From The Heart

2011-02-02T06:45:00.000-07:00

I'm in the Spotlight At The Elephant's Trunk

2011-01-31T04:18:00.000-07:00

What a fabulous way to start the week! Lauren at The Elephant's Trunk has posted a lovely blog featuring yours truly. I invite you to stop by for a visit. Being recognized is always a wonderful way to make you feel valued.

I value each of you. Your participation and comments help to make my blog a wonderful place to spend time. I am honored to share with you.

A new week of possibilities ahead!

P.S> many thanks to those of you who recognize Katherine's Corner with blog awards, I am always grateful.

A Sister For Katie

2011-01-27T03:16:00.003-07:00

Growing up is tough, we’ll all agree to that. For some it’s tougher than others. Without getting to heavy, or calling out the little violins to soon. I will just say growing up for me was in deed tough. I grew up far too fast and skipped over the “being a kid” part completely.

I was raised in a very strict household. Children were to be seen and not heard, etc. Only A’s were allowed and extracurricular activities had to be academically valued. Being the eldest I carried a lot of responsibilities (along with stress) and actually developed my first ulcer at a very early age (another story perhaps for another day). My younger brother is several years my junior and we lacked that wonderful sibling connection so many share growing up. No matter how hard I tried over the years we never connected. We are two people, so very different from one another. Every time I have extended my love and support it has always been rejected (do I hear violins yet?)

I used to envy the sibling connections I’d see in my friend’s families. I used to spend a lot of time alone. I often wrote in my diary about how nice it would be to have a sister to confide in. Someone closer to my age, someone to lean on, and share confidences with. I always had very strong friendships and a diverse group of friends. But, there still was no substitute for the sister I had always wanted.

A recent announcement on the Oprah Winfrey show regarding the discovery of her half-sister brought forward something I never thought I’d write a blog about…….

I too have a sister! I learned of her and met her for the very first time in 1999! She is beautiful, talented, successful, and artistic. She spent her whole life thinking she was an only child. Although we found each other late in our lives we now have the sister we had both wished for. We haven’t seen each other since 1999. But, we stay connected through emails, letters and facebook!

You see, she lives in Tokyo! ……………………………

You may wonder why I have a photo of Blythe dolls on this post. My big sister’s company created Blythe. My sister is an extraordinary woman. She has many successful ventures and is also a hula teacher. I am proud to know her and to love her and to call her my sister.

Wordless Wednesday Making Memories

2011-01-26T04:13:00.001-07:00

Basil and Corn Tart Recipe

2011-01-24T07:14:00.001-07:00

Basil is still happily growing in the windowsill and there's still corn in the freezer from summer. I thought I'd share this veggie recipe with you today. This recipe makes a nice addition to a brunch menu or serve for a light lunch.

What You Need

1/3 cup butter, softened

2 Tbsp Sugar

1/2 tsp Salt

3 Eggs

2/3 Cup Yellow Cornmeal

2/3 Cup All-purpose flour

1 Cup half-and-half (or light cream)

1-1/2 Cups Corn kernels (fresh or thawed if using frozen)

1/2 Cup coarsely chopped fresh basil (plus a few small leaves for garnish, optional)

1/2 tsp Salt

1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Electric Mixer

9 inch Tart Pan (or round cake pan )

Aluminum Foil

Plastic Wrap

Tomato ( chopped for garnish, optional)

Before You Start: This recipe requires refrigeration of the crust prior to completion. Make the crust (see below) preheat oven to 350® after removing crust from the refrigerator.

Lets Make It! In medium bowl, beat butter with electric mixer on medium speed to blend (about 30 seconds). Add sugar and 1/2 tsp salt. Beat until combined. Beat in 1 egg until combined. Add in cornmeal and as much of the flour as you can with the mixer; stir in any remaining flour. Form dough into a Frisbee looking disc and wrap in plastic. Chill for about an hour (until it’s easy to handle).

After dough has cooled, press and pat dough evenly into bottom and sides of tart pan. Cover pastry with double thickness of foil and bake 10 minutes; remove foil. Bake 4 to 6 minutes more.

In medium bowl whisk together 2 eggs and half-and-half. Stir in corn, basil, 1/2 tsp salt and the pepper. Pour into corn crust. Bake 35 to 40 minutes (or until set, no jiggling). Let stand 10 minutes. Sprinkle with tomato and additional basil. To garnish before serving

Serves 6-8

Lace Hoop Sachet Craft Project

2011-01-20T04:09:00.003-07:00

What You Need

Embroidery hoop (I used a 4 inch hoop)

Lace or tulle (about 12 inches square, may vary depending on embroidery hoop size)

Ribbon

Glue gun

Embellishments

Scissors

Fragrance beads or dry lavender

Before You Start : Heat up your glue gun. Take your embroidery hoop apart (remove the top pin by unscrewing)

Lets Make It! Place your inside loop onto a piece of lace or tulle and cut it about 1 inch larger in diameter than your embroidery hoop.

Lay your inside loop over the lace fabric and begin to proceed to glue the fabric to the loop using your hot glue gun all around the outside edge, gently pressing the lace fabric onto the glued edge. Work a little bit at a time ( hot glue dries quickly) moving slowly until the entire hoop is covered.

Using scissors trim any excess fabric from loop. Repeat this same process with the outside loop.

Place dried lavender or fragrance beads into the outside loop and place the inside loop back into the outside loop. It will fit snugly.

Cut a piece of ribbon long enough to cover the outside loop edge. Using your glue gun, glue the ribbon to the outside edge of the embroidery hoop. Using, beads, ribbon, flowers and other embellishments glue trim around the face of the hoop. Finish with a ribbon bow through the holes at the top of the loop (where you removed the screw.) Hang your hoop sachet in your closet, or on your door knob, or give it as a gift. Do not place directly on your clothing (sometimes fragrance beads can stain).

@Bobskatie Enterprises-Katherine’s corner

Wordless Wednesday The View From Here

2011-01-19T04:39:00.001-07:00

A Few Random Thoughts

2011-01-17T07:19:00.002-07:00

Random thoughts bounced through my mind this morning as I sipped my hot cup of tea. Both good and bad they made their way in and hung out for a while. I'm posting them today, feel free to add your responses and your own random thoughts.

It's Martin Luther King Day, we celebrate an amazing man with a vision for our world to live in peace.

Love can be felt through the internet, it has great power.

I wonder how all of the victims in Arizona and their families are doing. I know our prayers, love and light are felt by them.

Does anyone read my tweets?

Are flowers in the bathroom a weird thing to do?

The first kiss in the morning from my sweet husband is the best way to start the day.

Hot tea makes me smile.

A hug can make an entire day of yucky dissolve in an instant.

Someone ( anonymous) left a negative comment on my blog the other day ( I deleted it)
Why did they have to leave it as anonymous?

The Golden Globes need to rethink the way they place the tables so the winners don't have to go through a maze to get to the stage.

When did shoulder pads come back?

I pray my two youngest grandchildren will feel better soon.

Thank you God for all the blessings in my life.

I think I'll blog these thoughts, I love my blog community.

Now, I need more tea............

Comfort Food Spicy Tomato Soup

2011-01-14T09:03:00.003-07:00

What You Need
1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 small onion (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (crushed)
coarse salt and ground pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground coriander
4 cups roasted tomatoes (canned, jarred or made by you see recipe below)
1/2 tsp sugar
1/2 cup cream ( half n half or milk is fine too)
1 Tbsp unsalted butter
Fine mesh sieve or food mill
Blender
Additional, your choice of one or all :Fresh cilantro leaves, croutons and red-pepper flakes, for serving

Let’s Make It! In a saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is soft (about 12 minutes). Add cumin and coriander; cook, stirring, until fragrant. Add tomatoes, sugar, and 1/2 cup of cream and 1/2 cup of water water, stir well and cook until warmed through. In batches, puree soup in a blender until smooth (use caution when blending hot liquids). Strain through a fine-mesh sieve. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper. Serve soup with crusty croutons, chopped cilantro (or cilantro leaves) and red-pepper flakes.
Serves 4

Roasted Tomatoes
2 cans (28 oz. each) whole peeled tomatoes
3 garlic cloves (crushed)
3 Tbsp olive oil
Large roasting pan

Before You start: Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Let’s Make it! Place tomatoes in a large roasting pan. With your hands or a large fork, roughly tear each tomato into 1-inch strips. Add garlic and drizzle oil over top. Roast until mixture thickens and holds a trail when you run a knife through it60-90 minutes) rotate the roasting pan halfway through the cooking time. Use immediately, or let cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container, up to 1 week.

Just Good To Know Dishwasher Duty

2011-01-13T03:27:00.003-07:00

My husband and I have always had the agreement whoever cooks doesn’t clean up. That means 99.9 percent of the time he loads the dishwasher. He is an expert at it! I thought I’d share some tips with you today.

First tip-Turn your kitchen tap on until the water runs hot before starting the dishwasher. With heated pipes the dishwasher is ready to go!

Pre-rinse dishes only if they're going to sit in the machine all day. But, if you're running a cycle right away, just scrape off the food and load into the dishwasher.

Secure all plastics. If you don't, blasts of water may cause these pieces to flip over, fall onto the heating element and melt. You may want to just hand wash them. Never stack items. The water spray won't be able to reach the dishes that are on top.

Let’s Load!

Bottom Rack

Load plates and bowls so that the dirty sides face the water spray. Pots, pans and casseroles should angle down for the best cleaning results. * Watch out for utensils with long, thin handles. They might slip through the rack and prevent the spray arm from spinning freely.

Tuck flat pans and platters along the sides and back of the rack. Never place them in front, by the door -- they'll keep the detergent from reaching the dishes.

* Make sure the forks and spoons don't nest together. Place some handles up and others down so that all surfaces get washed.Always separate your stainless steel and silver (or silver-plated) flatware. If the two types touch in the wash, a reaction may occur and the silver could pit.

Top Rack

Place glasses and mugs between the tines( not on top of the tines.) The tip of the prong can leave a water spot.

Angle cups as much as the rack design will allow keeping water from pooling on the base of the upside-down cups.

Arrange wineglasses carefully. To help prevent breakage, don't let them bump against one another or the top of the dishwasher. I usually hand wash these.* crystal stemware does not belong in the dishwasher

*Katie’s Tid Bit: For extra side space, move your flatware basket to the center if possible. Unload the bottom rack first to avoid the drip-down from the top rack
**an extra note left in a comment from Debby, use dishwasher soap only, giggle

Wordless Wednesday On Frozen Pond

2011-01-12T04:24:00.003-07:00

Gardens Under Glass A Craft Project

2011-01-08T01:55:00.002-07:00

The winter weather and post holiday blues may be creeping in on you, so here’s a fun way to bring some life to a blue day.

What You Need
A glass container with a large mouth and a base with a deep enough bottom to hold soil and rocks (apothecary and bell jars work great)

Plants

Potting soil (African violet mix works well)

Horticulture charcoal (available in the houseplant and garden section)

Pebbles (3/8 inch is a nice size)

Anything you’d like to add to give your terrarium some personality ( this is optional you can just use plants if you prefer)

Lets make It! Choose your plants. Any green plants will thrive. Other favorites include members of the Peperomia family, pileas, miniature fern, coleus, cuban oregano, penta, tradea scentia, miniature mums. Even collector plants like African violets, orchids or small begonias are great!

Place one to two inches of pebbles in the base of your container, add a small handful of charcoal ( wearing gloves helps to keep you and things clean)and mix them in with the pebbles. Level off the layer. Spread a layer of 2 to 3 inches of soil and gently pat it down. Dig a small hole in the soil, tuck in your plant and pat down the soil around it. Make sure no roots are exposed. Repeat this process for each plant. Don’t crowd to many plants in one terrarium, and make sure you have room for any additional decorations you may want to add.
Lightly water the plants and put a lid on your garden. DO NOT place it in direct sunlight. Rotate the terrarium occasionally to make sure all of the plants get light. Condensation means your garden under glass is doing well. Every couple of weeks take the lid off of your terrarium for a few hours.

* If you do not see any condensation add a spritz of water.

That’s it. Taa daa, winter blues just met a bit of early springtime.

Click Here for another post holiday pick me up

Veggie Recipe Potato Pie

2011-01-06T03:24:00.001-07:00

What You Need
1 ½ cup cheddar cheese (½ coarsely grated, ½ cut into small chunks)
¾ cup sour cream (crème fraîche works best)
Premade pie crust (from your markets refrigerator section)
2 lbs potatoes, (thinly sliced)
2 medium white onions thinly finely sliced)
1 bunch spring onions- about 6 (roughly chopped)
1 ¼ tsp nutmeg (grated)
1 tsp paprika
1 egg (beaten)
Salt and Pepper
10 x 10 baking pan
Non stick cooking spray
Basting brush
Baking sheet

Before You Start: preheat oven to 375˚ and spray inside baking dish with non stick cooking spray.

Lets Make It! In a small bowl, mix the grated cheddar with the crème fraîche, then set aside. Roll out one pie crust on a lightly floured surface until large enough to line the baking dish with a little over hang. Place into baking dish and begin filling with one layer of potatoes evenly distributed throughout, then a layer of onions, spring onions and chunks of cheese. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg and paprika. Repeat layering over more potatoes, onions and cheese, then spread over half the crème fraîche mix. Repeat with 2 more layers (the potatoes will come up way above the pastry), pushing the filling down slightly, then finish with the remaining crème fraîche mix. Roll the remaining pastry so it fits over the potatoes. Brush the sides with egg, then lay the pastry over the top. Squeeze the edges together and trim with a knife. Crimp the sides and brush the top all over with egg. Place the pie on a baking sheet, bake for 30 minutes then reduce the temperature to 325 and continue baking for 1 hr until golden, If it starts to get to dark cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Leave the pie to rest for 10 minutes and serve
Serves 4
*Katie’s Tid Bit try using phyllo dough and make small individual tarts. Reduce cooking time to about 40 minutes.

Wordless Wednesday Tea For One

2011-01-05T03:31:00.003-07:00

Giveaway!

2011-01-04T10:52:00.003-07:00

Have you entered the giveaway at my other blog yet? Click Here
There are only a few entries so far.
Pop over for a visit and get in it to win it!
Good Luck!

I'll have another giveaway here at Katherine's Corner when the followers reach 1500.

Resolutions Schmezalutions

2011-01-01T09:31:00.000-07:00

Every year I make them, and every year I break them. So, this year no resolutions!

Instead I’ll just keep trying to…..

get rid of my menopause middle, and

I will continue to express positive optimism.

I will continue to try and worry less.

I will continue to try and write more.

I will continue to try and wear more shoes with laces instead of my slip ons or clogs.

I will continue to greet each new day with gratitude.

I will continue to limit my cups of tea to three.

I will continue to use, instead of look at, my elliptical machine.

I will always work at creating the best blogs, shops and websites I can.

I will continue to do the things that make me smile

I will continue to extend my hand in friendship to all who will receive it.

So, I resolve, to not make any resolutions, what about you?………

New Years Rockin Eve

2010-12-31T07:21:00.002-07:00

It's New Years eve! Time to express gratitude for the past year and time to celebrate a new year of possibilities.

Plans have been made, champagne ( or sparkling cider) is chilling and a lot of you will be hosting parties, or attending get together's to ring in the new year.

Sparky ( my husband Bob) and I will be snuggled up on our couch under a warm blanket. I'll be clutching my box of tissues (I'm ringing in the new year with a bad head cold) and he'll be trying to snuggle without getting cooties, giggle. We'll watch Dick Clark's Rockin' Eve and try and keep our eyes open long enough to see the ball drop.
We'll raise our glass to each of you and send Happy New Years wishes your way. May it be filled with abundant love, happiness and good health.

Thank you all for a lovely year here at Katherine's Corner. Happy New Year everyone!

Please assign a designated driver, Do Not Drink and Drive, hugs!

Snow Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

Answer to What Was In The Box

2010-12-28T05:09:00.000-07:00

If you read my previous post " What's In The Box" you might be curious to know the answer.
First a little background. My wonderful husband is an avid fisherman. He's what I affectionately call a" blade of grass fisherman" ( I should probably trademark that term). He will get himself into all kinds of positions, balance on one foot on the top of a rock, climb down the rocky side of a cliff, stand on a blade of grass outstretched over the river,etc. all to get to the perfect fishing hole. Fishing does not slow down for my husband when the temperature drops below zero, that's actually just another opportunity to go fishing. He will drive to the frozen lake in a blizzard, drag his gear to the perfect spot, drill a hole and he is a happy fella. This year to make it easier to haul all of his gear I bought him ,drum roll please,.......... An ice fishing sled! Taa Daaa, that's right I packed it in a big box wrapped with gold paper and tied with a bow. He was so thrilled with his surprise. Sorry no photos of him allowed, he reused to let me post the photos of him in his Christmas morning attire and with his wild and woolly hair, giggle.

I loved your guesses and the emails you sent. Thank you for always participating in my blog, it really does make me smile.

I hope you all received something special and maybe a surprise or two under your tree this year.

Post Christmas Pecan Cake

2010-12-26T02:42:00.000-07:00

The holiday can easily be extended with this delicious concoction. I hope you enjoy this yummy pecan cake with rum frosting.

What You Need
3/4 cup unsalted butter ( at room temperature, plus a bit more to butter the pan)
1 1/4 cups pecans
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
3/4 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 cups confectioners' sugar
2 Tbsp heavy cream
1 tsp dark rum
1/2 tsp baking soda
8 inch square baking pan
Food processor
Electric Mixer
Wire cooling rack

Before You Start : preheat oven to 350° and butter sides and bottom of baking pan.

Lets Make It! In a food processor finely grind 1 cup of the pecans. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt and pulse to combine; set aside. Using an electric mixer, beat 1 stick of the butter with the brown and granulated sugars until light and fluffy, 5 to 6 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Gradually add the pecan mixture, mixing until well combined. Stir in the buttermilk and 1 tsp of the vanilla. Transfer the batter to the baking pan. Bake until golden brown (and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean) about 30 to 35 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes, and then transfer to a rack to cool completely. In a bowl beat the remaining butter with the confectioners' sugar and cream using an electric mixer, beat until fluffy. Beat in the rum and the remaining vanilla. Spread on cake. Chop the remaining pecans and sprinkle on top.

Serves 8

A Simple Message

2010-12-24T04:51:00.001-07:00

A very simple message sent with sincerity, gratitude, and hugs. Wishing each of you a very Merry Christmas. May your holiday be abundant with love, laughter, friendship and joy filled memory making.
Hugs and God Bless, Katherine

Yummy Holiday Gingerbread Loaf Recipe

2010-12-23T03:52:00.001-07:00

You saw it in the wordless Wednesday post above, now you can make some too.

What You Need

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup whole wheat flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp ginger (ground)

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp cardamom ( ground)

1/4 tsp cinnamon (ground)

1/4 tsp nutmeg (ground)

1 cup low-fat milk (warmed to 100° to 110°)

1/2 cup molasses

1/4 cup canola oil

3 Tbsp prunes (puréed)

2 large eggs (lightly beaten)

3/4 cup dark brown sugar (packed)

1/2 cup golden raisins

Non stick cooking spray

2 Tbsp finely chopped walnuts

Large Mixing Bowl

Medium mixing bowl

Whisk

9x 5 loaf pan

Wire cooling rack ( optional)

Thermometer

Before You Start : Preheat oven to 350°. Spray inside of loaf pan with cooking spray.

Let’s Make It! In a large mixing bowl combine flours, baking powder, ginger, baking soda, salt, cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix together. In a medium mixing bowl combine milk molasses, canola oil, prunes, and eggs. Mix well with a whisk stirring until well blended. Add sugar, stirring until well blended. With the back of a spoon or your hand make a well in center of flour mixture. Add milk mixture to flour mixture; stir just until combined. Stir in raisins. Scrape batter into loaf pan .Sprinkle walnuts in a 2 1/2-inch-wide strip down center of loaf. Bake about an hour ( or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.) Cool loaf in pan (on a wire rack works best)

Serves about 12 slices

*Katies Tid Bits-try using a jar of prunes baby food instead of the puréed prunes

Wordless Wednesday Gingerbread

2010-12-22T06:46:00.000-07:00

And The Winner Is

2010-12-21T09:59:00.001-07:00

Thank you for participating in my Pretty Things Giveaway.
I hope you will always continue to visit my blog.
I enjoy your comments and your friendship so much.
I look forward to providing another giveaway for you in the future.
Please join me in congratulating the winner.

The random number generator was used to determine the winner.

Drum roll please...Congratulations to # 49 the fab blogger at

the Red Head Riter.com

If you liked the prizes in this giveaway you can still own one of these lovely pieces by visiting my shop at etsy shop Polka Dots

I will have another giveaway when followers reach 1500. Please invite your friends to join us and follow along.

P.S. on an unrelated note...I just added google follow to my main website GO ASK KATIE please stop by and help to get me started. wink, wink, nudge nudge...giggle, please

Snowflake Decorative Ornament Craft

2010-12-20T01:47:00.003-07:00

What You Need

Rotary cutter ( scissors)
cutting mat
ruler
12x12-inch square of card stock ( white)
Quilling tool ( or small dowel with a slot cut in the end)
Craft glue
Adhesive spray
Fine glitter: ( I like silver)

Let’s make It! Using a rotary cutter, cut seven 1/4x12-inch strips from white card stock. From these strips, cut the following: one 6-inch-long strip (center round); eight 3-inch-long strips (arms); four 6-inch-long strips (scrolls); four 3-inch-long strips (teardrops); and four 2-inch-long strips (marquise shapes).
For round: Using a quilling tool, begin rolling a 6-inch strip from one end. Roll strip into a tight circle. Finished center round should be 5/8 inch wide. Use a dot of glue to secure end; let glue dry.
For arms: Roll one end of a 3-inch strip around quilling tool twice. At opposite end, roll strip around tool until finished arm is 1 inch long. Make eight. Glue arms together in pairs (see above photo). Glue the bottom of arms in place around the center circle.
For scrolls: Fold a 6-inch strip in half. Roll each end to the center. Make four.
Glue bottoms of scrolls to bottoms of arms near the center round, as shown. Let glue set. Glue sides of scrolls to arms, as shown.
For teardrops: Using a 3-inch strip, make a 1/2-inch round. Pinch one side into a point. Make four.Glue the teardrops between rolled ends of scrolls.
For marquise shapes: Using a 2-inch strip, make a 1/2-inch round. Pinch opposite sides into points. Make four.
Glue marquise shapes to ends of arms. Let it dry overnight.

Spray one side of ornament with adhesive and sprinkle with glitter; let dry. Turn over ornament and repeat on opposite side.

Takes time but the end result is worth the wait. Add it to your gifts, tie it on your tree, or tie it anywhere you want to decorate. It's not just for Christmas.

For something a little simpler Try this simple snowflake ornament ( I bet you used to make them as a child)

Pipe Cleaner Snowflake

What You Need
Wire cutter or pair of old scissors
Three 6-inch pieces of pipe cleaner, plus six 2 1/2-inch pieces, six 2-inch pieces, and six 1 1/2-inch pieces
Needle nose pliers

Cord or ribbon

Let’s Make It!
Using a wire cutter (or old scissors) cut three 6-inch pieces of pipe cleaner. Then cut six 2 1/2-inch pieces, six 2-inch pieces, and six 1 1/2-inch pieces. Twist 6-inch pieces together at their midpoints to make a six-spoked asterisk. Tighten twist by clamping down with needle nose pliers. Center one 2 1/2-inch piece at the midpoint of a spoke, and twist onto spoke. Tighten twist with needle nose pliers. Repeat on remaining 5 spokes. About 1/2 inch from an arm attached in step 3 (toward spoke's tip), center one 2-inch piece, and twist onto spoke. Tighten twist with needle nose pliers. Repeat on remaining 5 spokes. About 1/2 inch from an arm attached in step 4 (toward spoke's tip), center one 1 1/2-inch piece, and twist onto spoke. Tighten twist with needle nose pliers. Repeat on remaining 5 spokes. Trim arms if needed.

To hang, glue a loop of ribbon or cord to the back of a spoke.

Last Chance to ENTER THE GIVEAWAY ends at midnight tonight!

What Is In The Box?

2010-12-19T01:17:00.002-07:00

I know some of you will be able to relate to this post. Every year I'm faced with the same dilemma. What do I buy for the man who has everything ( my wonderful husband.) He never asks for anything, except socks and underwear!
Every year without fail I try and come up with something unique and fun that he may have shown an interest in during the year, or something I just know he'll like. This year I found it more challenging than most. But, I think I did it.
I thought I'd make this fun and ask you to guess "What's in the Box."
The big box to the right of the fireplace, you can't miss it!

So without any clues at all, I challenge you to guess "What's in the box?"

After it has been opened on Christmas morning I'll post the answer. Have fun guessing.I can't wait to read your comments on this post.

Don't Forget To ENTER THE GIVEAWAY!

That Festive Feeling.

2010-12-16T15:38:00.002-07:00

Everyone who reads my blog knows I've got the Christmas spirit....(Don't tell, but I try and have it all year long)

That glorious festive feeling that sends tingles from your head to your toes.
I'm spreading it like a virus to everyone I know.
I give it to family, to friends, to bloggers galore.
To strangers, to store greeters and I'll give even more.
I spread the Christmas spirit to everyone I meet.
I want them to feel it from their head to their feet.
The glorious love that abounds from within as I celebrate Christmas with you and my kin.

A little cheesy I know but I started and couldn't stop, giggle.

Merry Christmas from my home to yours.

See that package on the right. Stop by on Sunday for my next post.

Our living room is mostly cream and gold this year, not too many decorations.

But enough to make it look like Christmas time.

My Favorite angel comes out every year to rest in front of the fireplace

The Dining room and family room are decorated mostly for our grandchildren.

Except for this handsome reindeer who rests on our dining table

Mr and Mrs Clause stand guard at the back door

Snow people are on display in the family room, up high and down low.

There's even Mr Clause in our bathroom downstairs.

He'll cover his eyes when someone's in there.Wow, I'm rhyming a lot in this blog.

There's more but you get the idea. We even have one of those rocking and singing reindeer.

hee,hee....more rhyming

Wordless Wednesday Nativity

2010-12-15T03:59:00.001-07:00

please pause music player on the right sidebar before watching

Let's Play With Our Food

2010-12-13T03:48:00.005-07:00

The holidays are the perfect time to play with your food. I hope you'll enjoy this delicious macaroon recipe, and these food craft ideas. They should all help to make the season bright and add some wonderful memories too. Enjoy!

Macaroon Snowmen
What You Need
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 tsp salt
3-1/2 cups sweetened flaked coconut
3/4 cup macadamia nuts ( finely ground)
16 (5-inch) wooden skewers
16 mini gift boxes ( available in the bakery dept)
Cookie sheets
Parchment paper
Cooling racks
Electric mixer
Pretzel sticks
Ribbon or fabric scraps

Before You Start : Preheat oven to 350 ˚Line 3 large cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Let’s make it! Beat egg whites in a large bowl on high speed until foamy, about 1 minute. Add sugar, extract, and salt, beating to stiff peaks, about 5 minutes. Gently fold in 2 cups coconut, then the nuts, until just combined. Roll with damp hands into 32 balls (3/4 inch in diameter) for bottom and middle of snowmen, and 16 balls (1/2 inch in diameter) for the heads. Roll balls in remaining 1-1/2 cups coconut, coating well. Carefully transfer to cookie sheets, placing 1 inch apart. Bake macaroons in upper and lower thirds of oven, switching positions halfway through, until bottoms are pale golden ( about 12 to 15 minutes) Transfer macaroons from cookie sheets to racks and cool completely.
To assemble snowmen: Push 1 skewer into the center of each box and carefully thread 2 of the larger macaroons through the skewer to sit on the box; top with a smaller macaroon for the head. Add pretzels, ribbon,fabric, etc for embellishments if desired. Fill the box with cookies. Makes 16 snowmen.

Gum Drop Trees

What you need
Styrofoam cones
Plastic wrap
Gum drops
Tooth picks
Lets Make them
Wrap the Styrofoam cones with plastic wrap. Insert tooth picks into the gum drops, poke the toothpick covered gum drops into the plastic wrapped trees. Be creative, use different colors add frosting for ribbon. It's edible fun.

Edible Snowman ( post from 2009) Click Here

Candy Cane Bark Two Recipes

2010-12-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

Some people call it candy cane or peppermint bark, others call it peppermint brittle, whatever you call it, I know you'll call it yummy. Here are two recipes I hope you'll enjoy making this holiday season. Great to fill holiday tins with and give to friends and neighbors too.

Recipe One

6 oz. chocolate-flavor candy coating (chopped)

3 oz. milk chocolate bar (chopped)

6 oz. vanilla-flavor candy coating (chopped)

3 oz. white chocolate baking squares (chopped)

1/4 cup ( about four) peppermint candy canes (crushed)

Baking sheet (should accommodate a 10 x 8 rectangle)

Foil

2 Small saucepans ( thick bottomed)or double boilers

Spatula

Before You Start Line a large baking sheet with foil.

Let’s Make It! In a small saucepan or double boiler, melt chocolate-flavor candy coating and milk chocolate bar, stirring over low heat until smooth. Pour onto baking sheet and spread into a 10x8-inch rectangle; set aside. In another saucepan or double boiler, melt vanilla-flavor candy coating and white chocolate baking squares, stirring over low heat until smooth. Slowly pour white mixture over chocolate mixture on baking sheet. With a thin spatula, swirls white candy mixture into chocolate mixture. Shake baking sheet gently for even thickness. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes. Chill in refrigerator 30 minutes or until firm. Use foil to lift candy from baking sheet; break candy into pieces.

Katie’s Tid Bits *Try substituting milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and/or white chocolate baking squares with cocoa butter for candy coating.

Makes 1-1/4 pounds. Store in air tight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Or try this simpler recipe using white chocolate…..

What You Need

12 large candy canes

2 Lbs white chocolate ( chopped into 1/2-inch pieces)

1/2 tsp peppermint oil

Large baking sheet ( 11x 17 works well)

Parchment paper

Knife or meat tenderizer and cutting board

Double Boiler

Before You Start Line the baking sheet with parchment; set aside.

Let’s Make It!Using a chef's knife or meat tenderizer, cut or smash candy canes into 1/4" pieces. In the top of a double boiler, melt white chocolate, stirring constantly. Remove from heat as soon as the chocolate is melted. Stir candy cane and peppermint oil into the chocolate. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet; spread evenly. Refrigerate until firm, 25 to 30 minutes. Break into pieces, and serve.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Wordless Wednesday Believe

2010-12-08T07:54:00.001-07:00

Giveaway Win These Pretty Things

2010-12-07T05:30:00.014-07:00

As promised it’s time for a giveaway. The goal of 1000 followers has been reached. Thank you everyone!
I’m calling this giveaway Pretty Things. You can win all these elegant and pretty silver and pearl pieces, made exclusively for this giveaway by yours truly. Prize Value $50.00. One pair of earrings, One angel wing necklace and One bracelet. Wear them together, or separately. Give them as gifts or keep them for yourself. Dressed up or down, these pieces are a lovely way to accessorize your outfit. *

Now for the Rules: You must be a Katherine’s Corner blog follower to enter. (It’s easy to follow just click to follow at the top of the page)

There are a lot of ways to enter:
For One Entry- Leave a comment that you are a follower
For One Entry -Tweet about this giveaway and leave a comment with the link
For One Entry -post this giveaway on facebook and leave a comment where I can find it
For Two Entries -Post the giveaway button on your blog sidebar and comment that you’ve posted
For Two Entries-Visit one of my online shops Blue Iris Gifts, shop Polka Dots , Be Well Gifts or Gifts By Katherine and leave a comment about something you like
For Three Entries- Have a friend become a follower. They need to leave a comment saying you sent them.
That’s it lots of ways to enter.

Do one, or do them all. But, ONLY ONCE FOR EACH TYPE OF ENTRY.

If you do each type of entry that will give you ten chances to win!

Good Luck.
For your own internet safety please don't leave your email address on your comment. If your email is not provided on your profile please check back at the end of the giveaway to see who wins . I will contact you if your email is available. If not please contact me if you are the winner.

Copy and paste the code to place the giveaway on your blog.

Starts today Tuesday December 7th and ends at midnight Monday Dec 20th.

* wrapped gift box not included. Giveaway open to US and Canadian residents only, sorry.

A Simple Craft Holiday Napkin Ring

2010-12-06T06:39:00.002-07:00

Starting the week off with excitement at meeting my 1000 followers, Thank you all!. As promised a giveaway will be posted this week. Meanwhile. Here's a simple craft with elegant results.

What You Need ( for each napkin ring):
Scissors
Colored ribbon, 2" x 6"
Jeweled trim, 6" length
Hot-glue gun ( or needle and thread)
Let's Make It!
Cut 6" length ribbon and 6" length jeweled trim. Use glue gun to draw a thin line on ribbon; position trim along top edge of ribbon and press to secure.
Overlap ends slightly, trimming excess if needed. Glue ends (or sew) together to form ring.

Toasted Pecan Mounds and Soft Sugar Cookies

2010-12-04T07:00:00.017-07:00

It's National Cookie Day!

What You need
1 cup pecans ( toasted and cooled)
1 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
2 sticks (1 cup) cold unsalted butter
cut into small pieces)
2 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
Baking sheet
Food processor

Before You start preheat oven to 325°F.

Lets Make It! Pulse pecans with 3/4 cup of the sugar in food processor until finely ground (do not overprocess). Add butter, vanilla and salt; process, scraping bowl often, to blend. Add flour; pulse just until dough forms a ball. Lightly flour your hands and lightly roll into 1-inch. balls. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes or until tops are dry and set and bottoms are light brown. Cool cookies on sheet 10 minutes. Gently (they’re extremely fragile) roll warm cookies in remaining 1 cup confectioners’ sugar to coat. Cool, then roll in sugar again.

*Katies Tid Bits Storage Tip: Store airtight with wax paper between layers at cool room temperature up to 2 weeks. makes about 2 dozen

Soft Sugar Cookies

What You Need

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (room temperature)

2 cups sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Whisk

Electric Mixer

Cookie baking sheet

Wire Cooling Racks

Sifter

Before You Start: Heat oven to 350°

Lets Make It! In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugars on medium-high speed until fluffy (about 2 to 3 minutes). One at a time, beat in the eggs, and then add the vanilla. Reduce speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined (do not over mix). Drop heaping Tbsp of the dough onto baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake, rotating the baking sheets halfway through, until the cookies are golden, (about 12 to 15 minutes) Cool slightly on the baking sheets, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Frost or leave plain. Makes about two dozen