I was lucky enough to receive a last minute invite to a fab cocktail party the other night. Of course I was attending and as everybody knows you can't show up without a hostess gift. I ran to my gift closet, yes, there were a few options available to me in there. I also look in the pantry as many times a tasty food item is calling - sauce, spice, oil, jam, stuffed olives (I like to make my own blue cheese stuffed olives, so yummy in a slightly dirty martini of course). Well this afternoon I had just made some white chocolate almond biscotti's!! So easy....
When next at the store buy a container of almond biscotti's, large or small and buy some white chocolate chips. Melt the white chocolate in the microwave, 1 1/2 minutes on medium high, stir continue to heat until melted. Dip half of the biscotti in the white chocolate and place on wax paper until dry. Place several in cellophane goodie bag tie with pretty bow and apply label if you have one. If not , no worries, the ribbon is decorative enough. Your hostess will love them and they are technically homemade!!! hurray for you.
Oh and by the way the Party of Fabulously Amazing...I met several new fun loving, creative and intelligent individuals. It's going to be a festive holiday season, hope yours is as well!!!
Writer and Advocate for Women
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style” Maya Angelou
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Sunday, November 27, 2011
The Simple Things in Life
I promise my road trip to the west coast will continue soon.
Today I am moved to share with you some wonderful experiences that bring joy, gratitude and peace to my life. They are simple sweet outings with my beloved black lab georgia belle. I live in Los Angeles, with plenty of bounty around me. I love to hop in my car and hit streets....yes there is traffic and lights that get in the way form time to time, patients is the word, also, I have learned to maneuver around town.
We have great parks to roam and of course there is always Beverly Hills. I just love strolling down the streets window shopping. When I get real excited I actually go in and have a look see. georgia belle is always welcomed with lots of petting and loving coming her way. One of my favorite stores is Tiffany, of course. Who doesn't love a Tiffany blue box. Next stop a great cup of coffee and some more people watching. There are so many choices; a seat in one of the amazing Hotel lobbies, a table at a sidewalk restaurant or the ever so prevalent coffee houses. Love having choices and all wonderful!! Today I chose a sidewalk restaurant. With georgia belle by my side we enjoyed an hour and a half of relaxation and refreshment. Then a simple stroll through the park to our car and homeward bound.
What a wonderful afternoon....
Hope you find and enjoy the simple pleasures in your life today and everyday!!!
Today I am moved to share with you some wonderful experiences that bring joy, gratitude and peace to my life. They are simple sweet outings with my beloved black lab georgia belle. I live in Los Angeles, with plenty of bounty around me. I love to hop in my car and hit streets....yes there is traffic and lights that get in the way form time to time, patients is the word, also, I have learned to maneuver around town.
We have great parks to roam and of course there is always Beverly Hills. I just love strolling down the streets window shopping. When I get real excited I actually go in and have a look see. georgia belle is always welcomed with lots of petting and loving coming her way. One of my favorite stores is Tiffany, of course. Who doesn't love a Tiffany blue box. Next stop a great cup of coffee and some more people watching. There are so many choices; a seat in one of the amazing Hotel lobbies, a table at a sidewalk restaurant or the ever so prevalent coffee houses. Love having choices and all wonderful!! Today I chose a sidewalk restaurant. With georgia belle by my side we enjoyed an hour and a half of relaxation and refreshment. Then a simple stroll through the park to our car and homeward bound.
What a wonderful afternoon....
Hope you find and enjoy the simple pleasures in your life today and everyday!!!
Friday, November 18, 2011
definitely catherine’s White Pizza
definitely catherine’s White Pizza
pizza dough
½ packet Lipton savory herb and garlic seasoning
Olive oil
Ricotta cheese
Whole milk mozzarella and smoked provolone cheese
Bake 450 approximately 15 minutes
Roll out dough, spread with olive oil and sprinkle
with seasoning. Spoon on dollops of
Ricotta and top with cheese.
Enjoy with a great bottle of bubbles!!!
pizza dough
½ packet Lipton savory herb and garlic seasoning
Olive oil
Ricotta cheese
Whole milk mozzarella and smoked provolone cheese
Bake 450 approximately 15 minutes
Roll out dough, spread with olive oil and sprinkle
with seasoning. Spoon on dollops of
Ricotta and top with cheese.
Enjoy with a great bottle of bubbles!!!
definitely catherine: Super Yummy Hot Crab Dip
definitely catherine: Super Yummy Hot Crab Dip: Just in time for Thanksgiving...One of my favorite cravings!! A sure crowd pleaser . I love to catch and crack my own crab, but canned from...
Super Yummy Hot Crab Dip
Just in time for Thanksgiving...One of my favorite cravings!!
A sure crowd pleaser. I love to catch and crack my own crab, but canned from your fish market is great as well.
definitely catherine’s Hot Baked Crab Dip
2 8-ounce packages reduced-fat Cream cheese, softened
8 ounces crab meat
2 Tbsp minces onion
11/2 Tbsp prepared horseradish
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp hot sauce
Ground paprika sprinkle on top after baking
Bake uncovered 375 degrees 20-25 minutes or until lightly
browned. Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Spread
in a 9-inch pie plate. Bake and serve with crackers or baguette.
A sure crowd pleaser. I love to catch and crack my own crab, but canned from your fish market is great as well.
definitely catherine’s Hot Baked Crab Dip
2 8-ounce packages reduced-fat Cream cheese, softened
8 ounces crab meat
2 Tbsp minces onion
11/2 Tbsp prepared horseradish
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp hot sauce
Ground paprika sprinkle on top after baking
Bake uncovered 375 degrees 20-25 minutes or until lightly
browned. Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Spread
in a 9-inch pie plate. Bake and serve with crackers or baguette.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Road Trip Anyone!!
The road is calling me. Load the cooler in the back seat, suitcase in the trunk and georgia belle wants to ride in the passenger seat. Our first big road trip was in late summer 2010, when we left Charleston heading for....destination unknown, seriously destination unknown. Do I head north to NYC or west to family and friends?????
Not sure so first stop Beaufort, South Carolina a short one and a half hours south. Stayed with a dear friend who has always been there for me when needed. Met him downtown Beaufort for some bubbles and good food to celebrate my BIG adventure!! Some would say I am a bit crazy to just take off without a plan. I say what have I got to lose. If things aren't working out and you have given it your all then sometimes its time to make a change for the better. Fear is what holds us back. It is important to make sure you aren't running from something. You have to face your challenges head on. Head held high always!!!!! Eye's on the road ahead!!! Great things are in front of you.
I love this phrase "Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much" yes, I do believe that life is meant to be lived and enjoyed and yes I do laugh often, Give it a try, laughter can be contagious.
Well need to sign off for now. Will continue my story tomorrow.
Not sure so first stop Beaufort, South Carolina a short one and a half hours south. Stayed with a dear friend who has always been there for me when needed. Met him downtown Beaufort for some bubbles and good food to celebrate my BIG adventure!! Some would say I am a bit crazy to just take off without a plan. I say what have I got to lose. If things aren't working out and you have given it your all then sometimes its time to make a change for the better. Fear is what holds us back. It is important to make sure you aren't running from something. You have to face your challenges head on. Head held high always!!!!! Eye's on the road ahead!!! Great things are in front of you.
I love this phrase "Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much" yes, I do believe that life is meant to be lived and enjoyed and yes I do laugh often, Give it a try, laughter can be contagious.
Well need to sign off for now. Will continue my story tomorrow.
Friday, November 11, 2011
definitely catherine: Southern Style Pimiento Cheese
definitely catherine: Southern Style Pimiento Cheese: Great comfort food and an all time favorite of mine. Grilled pimento cheese sandwich with potato chips, original Lays of course, or served ...
Southern Style Pimiento Cheese
Great comfort food and an all time favorite of mine. Grilled pimento cheese sandwich with potato chips, original Lays of course, or served on a Ritz cracker.....yum yum yum......
So simple to make
2 Cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 oz, cream cheese
4 oz. diced pimientos
1/2 cup mayo, or to your taste
dash of hot sauce
fresh ground pepper
optional green olives
mix all together, chill and serve.
Also makes a great hostess gift.
So simple to make
2 Cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 oz, cream cheese
4 oz. diced pimientos
1/2 cup mayo, or to your taste
dash of hot sauce
fresh ground pepper
optional green olives
mix all together, chill and serve.
Also makes a great hostess gift.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
definitely catherine: Peanut Butter Doggie Cookies
definitely catherine: Peanut Butter Doggie Cookies: What's better then a day at the beach with your best friend . For me it is spending time with my sweet black lab georgia belle....I must sa...
Peanut Butter Doggie Cookies
What's better then a day at the beach with your best friend
. For me it is spending time with my sweet black lab georgia belle....I must say, hanging at the beach with her is such a joy.
I wanted to introduce you to georgia belle as I am sure you will be hearing alot about her in the future.
Her favorite treats are homemade peanut butter cookies.
1 Cup Wholewheat flour
1 Cup Rolled Oats
1 Cup Peanut Butter
1 Cup warm water
1 Tbsp. baking powder
Mix all ingredients, spoon mounds onto ungreased cookie sheet. Make cross marks with a fork and bake for 20 minutes in 350 degree oven. Let cool, place in airtight container. Will last 3 weeks in refrigerator or 1 week at room temperature.
. For me it is spending time with my sweet black lab georgia belle....I must say, hanging at the beach with her is such a joy.I wanted to introduce you to georgia belle as I am sure you will be hearing alot about her in the future.
Her favorite treats are homemade peanut butter cookies.
1 Cup Wholewheat flour
1 Cup Rolled Oats
1 Cup Peanut Butter
1 Cup warm water
1 Tbsp. baking powder
Mix all ingredients, spoon mounds onto ungreased cookie sheet. Make cross marks with a fork and bake for 20 minutes in 350 degree oven. Let cool, place in airtight container. Will last 3 weeks in refrigerator or 1 week at room temperature.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Paying it Forward...There is Kindness in the World
For many their world is not what it use to be......times are tough and an everyday challenge......
We all know someone in need. They may be trying to hide it from you out of embarrassment, but if you stop and think I bet you can come up with at least 2 friends, neighbors, family members, or associates that are really struggling.
If you know someone who is struggling or in need don't wait for them to ask for help, offer it, or better yet do something nice for them just because. You can do it anonymously.
A few examples of kindness
Pay someones rent for a month.
Pay someones cell phone bill, gas bill, electric bill or cable bill. Simply call up the company and pay it.
Give Beauty certificates - hair, nails, massage
Give movie gift certificates so they can have some FUN!!!!
Invite a friend to dinner on you!!!
Drop off a bag of groceries or give a gift card.
Some of the most basic items are needed daily - toilet paper, paper towels, dish soap, laundry detergent (maybe a roll of quarters to go with), body soap, shampoo, conditioner, razors.
If a Pet is present. For me I am a DOG LOVER, then give them some dog treats and toys.
Use your imagination....You will receive great Joy your heart in return.
Today, while I was buying a delsih cup of coffee I decided to buy a gift card. I then turned around and presented it to the nice young man standing behind me. The reaction from all that were present was moving. It was completely spontaneous on my part and very fulfilling as I made an impact on others.
I would love to hear your own stories, ideas and thoughts....
defintiely catherine
We all know someone in need. They may be trying to hide it from you out of embarrassment, but if you stop and think I bet you can come up with at least 2 friends, neighbors, family members, or associates that are really struggling.
If you know someone who is struggling or in need don't wait for them to ask for help, offer it, or better yet do something nice for them just because. You can do it anonymously.
A few examples of kindness
Pay someones rent for a month.
Pay someones cell phone bill, gas bill, electric bill or cable bill. Simply call up the company and pay it.
Give Beauty certificates - hair, nails, massage
Give movie gift certificates so they can have some FUN!!!!
Invite a friend to dinner on you!!!
Drop off a bag of groceries or give a gift card.
Some of the most basic items are needed daily - toilet paper, paper towels, dish soap, laundry detergent (maybe a roll of quarters to go with), body soap, shampoo, conditioner, razors.
If a Pet is present. For me I am a DOG LOVER, then give them some dog treats and toys.
Use your imagination....You will receive great Joy your heart in return.
Today, while I was buying a delsih cup of coffee I decided to buy a gift card. I then turned around and presented it to the nice young man standing behind me. The reaction from all that were present was moving. It was completely spontaneous on my part and very fulfilling as I made an impact on others.
I would love to hear your own stories, ideas and thoughts....
defintiely catherine
Monday, November 7, 2011
definitelycatherine: Bubbles.......Lots and Lots of Bubbles....
definitelycatherine: Bubbles.......Lots and Lots of Bubbles....: Bubbles.......Lots and Lots of Bubbles.... effervescent , smooth, dry, tastes of raspberries, rose petals. It seduces and delights the s...
definitelycatherine: Bubbles.......Lots and Lots of Bubbles....
definitelycatherine: Bubbles.......Lots and Lots of Bubbles....: Bubbles.......Lots and Lots of Bubbles.... effervescent , smooth, dry, tastes of raspberries, rose petals. It seduces and delights the s...
Bubbles.......Lots and Lots of Bubbles....
Bubbles.......Lots and Lots of Bubbles....
effervescent, smooth, dry, tastes of raspberries, rose petals. It seduces and delights the senses.
I love bubbles, specially Rose Champagne!!! A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. There are so many to chose from. I am not particular, but my favorite one as of today is Tattinger Rose.
Other great choices are Drappier, Vueve Clicquot, Moet, Cristal, Dom
My budget says Prosecco from Italy or Cava from Spain. It is very easy to find a decent bottle for under $20, several great choices for around $10.
Prosecco: Ombra, Riondo, Mionetto
Cava: Condede Subirats, Cristalino, Segura Viudas
So Pop a bottle and ENJOY!!!
definitelycatherine: My special recipe is sure to delight...I promise!!...
definitelycatherine: My special recipe is sure to delight...I promise!!...: Delish homemade brownies!! My special recipe is sure to delight...I promise 1cup (2 sticks) butter, melted 2 cup sugar my secret ingred...
Friday, November 4, 2011
My special recipe is sure to delight...I promise!!!!
Delish homemade brownies!!
My special recipe is sure to delight...I promise
1cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
2 cup sugar
my secret ingredient 1/3 cup Kahlua, or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup HERSHEY'S Cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1 bag chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
1 Heat oven to 350°F. Grease 9 x 12 baking pan.
Melt butter in sauce pan, add cocoa. Mix together eggs, sugar and Kahlua(yum, it's OK to take a sip as well). Mix in butter and cocoa. Add dry ingredients, mix well. Add nuts and chocolate chips f desired. Pour into pan and bake for approximately 35 minutes, until toothpick comes out with moist crumbs on it. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and ENJOY!!!!
http://www.spaweek.com/
My special recipe is sure to delight...I promise
1cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
2 cup sugar
my secret ingredient 1/3 cup Kahlua, or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup HERSHEY'S Cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1 bag chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
1 Heat oven to 350°F. Grease 9 x 12 baking pan.
Melt butter in sauce pan, add cocoa. Mix together eggs, sugar and Kahlua(yum, it's OK to take a sip as well). Mix in butter and cocoa. Add dry ingredients, mix well. Add nuts and chocolate chips f desired. Pour into pan and bake for approximately 35 minutes, until toothpick comes out with moist crumbs on it. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and ENJOY!!!!
http://www.spaweek.com/
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
definitelycatherine: Shopping in Your Girlfriends Closet!!
definitelycatherine: Shopping in Your Girlfriends Closet!!: Great idea for discount shopping with lots of laughs and stories to be told...... I have a girlfriend who I get together with every week f...
Shopping in Your Girlfriends Closet!!
Great idea for discount shopping with lots of laughs and stories to be told......
I have a girlfriend who I get together with every week for a fun outing. This week we went shopping in her closet!! Wow did I score....
We popped a bottle of bubbles and went into the closet. As she pulled out item after item I tried them on, or not. Not all things are meant to be shared.....some things simply need to be donated....
After the closet we moved onto the armoire and more and more and more items of clothing came my way...dresses, skirts, tops, purses, shoes, accessories....I mean really is it time for lunch already!!
After a yummy lunch of homemade chicken salad and homemade pimento cheese. Oh, yes and the brownies from scratch we tackled one more closet.....It was truly a fabulous day of lunch and shopping with my favorite girlfriend and not a penny spent.
When the time came to transport my new finds we made several trips to my car with bags and bags of new clothes.
A great idea is to get a group of friends together and have everyone bring items they no longer want and have a clothes swap. You get something new to you.
Give it a try with household items as well...throw pillows, dishes, rugs, pictures...use your imagination and make an event out of it.....
Have Fun!!!!!
definitely catherine
I have a girlfriend who I get together with every week for a fun outing. This week we went shopping in her closet!! Wow did I score....
We popped a bottle of bubbles and went into the closet. As she pulled out item after item I tried them on, or not. Not all things are meant to be shared.....some things simply need to be donated....
After the closet we moved onto the armoire and more and more and more items of clothing came my way...dresses, skirts, tops, purses, shoes, accessories....I mean really is it time for lunch already!!
After a yummy lunch of homemade chicken salad and homemade pimento cheese. Oh, yes and the brownies from scratch we tackled one more closet.....It was truly a fabulous day of lunch and shopping with my favorite girlfriend and not a penny spent.
When the time came to transport my new finds we made several trips to my car with bags and bags of new clothes.
A great idea is to get a group of friends together and have everyone bring items they no longer want and have a clothes swap. You get something new to you.
Give it a try with household items as well...throw pillows, dishes, rugs, pictures...use your imagination and make an event out of it.....
Have Fun!!!!!
definitely catherine
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