Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Memorial Day

                            

When most of us think about Memorial Day the first thing that pops in our mind is barbeque's with family and friends, a three day weekend and the beginning of summer. This federal holiday, which is a day of remembrance for those who died in our nation's service, was originally known as Decoration Day. Please take a moment this weekend and remember the men and women who sacrificed everything for this great nation. Have a safe and fun Memorial Day weekend while being mindful of our fallen. 
The DFW area has some great activities planned. Listed below are some of the events you can enjoy with your family  I found these at http://dallas.about.com/od/arts/tp/MemorialDay2010.htm.

1. May 28: Fireworks Over Grapevine

Angela Patterson
What: Enjoy a free Fireworks show
When: 9:30 p.m. every Friday night from Memorial Day to Labor Day (May 28 - Sept 3,2011).
Where: Fireworks can be seen from any Lake Grapevine Park. Also check out the Summerblast Party on the Gaylord Parking Garage Roof Top. Fireworks will continue rain or shine. If there is extreme weather or heavy rain at 9:30 p.m. the fireworks show will start after the weather has passed.

 Monday, May 30, 2011: Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery

What: Flags will honor our veterans.
When: Don't miss the 11 a.m. service Monday, May 30, 2011 with patriotic music and a 21-cannon salute.
Where: Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75211. 214-467- 3374.

 May 30: Memorial Day Car Show

What: Memorial Day Car Show
When: Monday, May 30, 2011 from 12 noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Lynn Smith Chevrolet, 925 N. Burleson Blvd., Burleson, Texas 76028
The guys move out the cars and we have lots of wonderful parking, food and fun. 

Many awards, including Best Of Show, Best Of Show Truck, Under Construction, Special Interest, Cycle, Late Moels. Family friendly. 

Cost: Free. $10 to register, open class, everyone is welcome. Drive it, drag it, push it, tow it or shove it we will register you if you can get it to the show.

All events are subject to change or weather conditions, profits go to D & D Christmas for Kids 2011 Project. Hosted by D & D Rockin’ Rods Classic Car Shows, call 817-797-1197

.May 30: Dallas Symphony Orchestra's Memorial Day Concert at Flagpole Hill

What: Dallas Symphony Memorial Day Concert with fireworks and an Americana-themed program that pays tribute to America's Armed Forces. Mezzo-soprano and Texas native Pamela King will join the DSO for American the Beautiful.
Where: Flagpole Hill, 8100 Doran Circle, Dallas, TX 75238
When: Monday, May 30, 2011 at 8 p.m.
Cost: Free

 21st Annual Memorial Day Run

What: 21st Annual Memorial Day Run, 20K and 5K Runs
When: Monday, May 30, 2011 at 7:30 a.m.
Where: Bath House Cultural Center parking lot, White Rock Lake, 500 E. Lawther, Dallas, TX
Parking: Do not park on the shoulder of Northcliff. Plenty of parking is available at the Bath House parking lot. Early arrival at the race site is encouraged to avoid congestion.

 ENERGY STAR Tax-Free Weekend 2011

It's ENERGY STAR's tax-free weekend. If you are in the market for some energy-efficient appliances, now's the time to save. From ceiling fans to washers to light bulbs, save money this weekend. Read more for the list of what appliances are included.

Monday, May 23, 2011

GET SQUASHED


YUMMY! Some of the best vegetables are abound right now. I was recently at my in-laws home and found these beautiful squash and zucchini  sitting on the kitchen counter. I automatically assumed it came out of their garden but was not surprised to learn that these goodies were grown by her sister and brother-in -law at their home in east Texas.It must be in their genes as their father was legendary for the garden he maintained. I was fortunate enough to bring home a bag full of yellows and greens. Talk about being in the right place at the right time...SCORE!!!! This got me me thinking of all recipes that are floating around out there for these super delicious veggies. Please share your favorite method for cooking zucchini and squash. I can't wait to see what you will cook up!

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Even-So-Sweet Boutique : Custom Clothing and Design by Jennifer Even


   
    The Even Family
A recent decision to stay home and pour herself into her family sparked an unexpected opportunity for Jennifer Even. Anybody who has ever met Jennifer realizes quickly that she gives one hundred percent to any thing she does. 
Jennifer recently began making custom creations. Her work is adorable and she can customize any color combination.  Most importantly, the quality of her work is exceptional. If you can dream it, she can make it! Keep watching my blog for an in depth look on Jennifer's story and fabulous home. You won't want to miss this one!
Check out her Facebook page:
E for excellent!
Clipboard's can be hand painted for $30 and mod podged for $20



CUTE!!!!



LOVE IT!
Onesies starting at $15 ; Burp cloth starting at $10
           Set of onesie and burpcloth starting at $24






Blankets range from $35 -$48
Onesies starting at $15



      Letters $7 each
     Custom Tshirts starting at $20
                                                        

                                    Standard shipping rates apply to all orders.
                                                 (Jennifer will find the best rate possible)
             
* Don't forget... Jennifer can create any color and design combination you desire.

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

I learned the love of cooking from my grandmother, Grandma Anne. She inspired me in so many areas of my life.
Some of the best food I have ever eaten came out of a simple kitchen on Limerick Lane, the street on which my grandparents lived.. 
As I got older (and braver), I began to experiment with recipes of my own just as Grandma Anne had done most of her married life. I will always remember calling or going to see her and sharing my latest concoction.
This recipe is dear to me as my grandmother loved it and always encouraged me to publish it or enter it into a contest. She said it was a sure winner. I hope you enjoy it as much as she did.

Southwest Chicken Wraps

1 pkg. large tortillas (plain,tomato basil, jalapeƱo cheddar, etc.)
1 pkg. chicken breast / or 2 lg cans chicken breast
2 tbs. olive oil
3 – 4 cloves garlic (minced) or 1tsp
3-4 stalks green onion (chopped)
1/4 cup (heaping) chopped cilantro (1 bunch)
I can rotel tomatoes (drained)
I can black beans (drained)
1cup summer crisp corn 
1/2 cup (heaping) shredded cheddar (I prefer sharp)
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1/8 tsp. red pepper
Pinch of salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large skillet heat olive oil .
Next add chicken and cook until done. (7-10 minutes). (skip if you use canned chicken)
Mix remaining ingredients in a large bowl and then set aside.
When chicken is done (shred/chop chicken) then add them to mixture and stir well.
(if you do not cook chicken add olive oil with other ingredients)
Spoon mixture into middle of tortillas and wrap up the sides.
Place wraps onto foil lined baking sheet (this makes for easy clean up) and bake until slightly toasted.


Vicki's Super Salsa


1  28oz (1lb) can diced tomatoes
1  tsp crushed red pepper
1  tsp salt
3 heaping tsp vinegar
1 bunch green onions (chopped)
1 bunch cilantro (chopped)
1/4 tsp powdered garlic (if desired)


Put all ingredients in a blender and blend until desired consistency is reached.
Refrigerate at least two hours before serving.
Serve with tortilla chips,your favorite mexican dish, and on salads.
Mmmm! That's what I'm talking about!