Writer and Advocate for Women

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

Easy Biscotti with White Chocolate

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!!!

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!!!

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!!!

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.

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.

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 ...