Christmas Time

Richard and I really enjoyed being able to see our family this Christmas. We were very fortunate to have Christmas Eve and Christmas Day off from work! We are truly blessed with such wonderful families!!

Here are some pictures...

I got Richard some Legos for his stocking and he had to build it right then!! Such a big kid at heart!

Christmas Eve at my Mom and Dad's house opening presents!!

My dad and brother all decked out in their hunting gear!!

Our tradition that started four years ago continued this year with a rice crispy house! We thought it turned out really good (and it tasted good too!!).

Richard's mom is taking care of some puppies and I fell in love!!! And I think Richard did too!!

Peppermint Bark

I tried this new recipe for Peppermint Bark and it turned out great! It is super easy and very festive for the holidays! I got the recipe online at Joy of Baking, but I modified the recipe a little.

Peppermint Bark

Ingredients:

• 6 ounces semi sweet chocolate (I used 12 ounces)
• 6 ounces white chocolate (I used 12 ounces of almond bark)
• 1/3 to 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 6 is plenty)

Directions:

• Line the bottom of a baking pan with aluminum foil and smooth the wrinkles out. (I used a 9 x 13)
• Melt the semi sweet chocolate in a microwavable glass bowl. Stir often
  so that it doesn't burn.
• Pour the melted semi sweet chocolate into the baking pan with the aluminum foil and spread over the entire pan.
• Place in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set.
• Melt the almond bark in the microwave and pour over the semi sweet chocolate.
• Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top.
• Place back in refrigerator for another 30 minutes or so.
• Break into bite sized pieces and enjoy!!!

I found these great little tins at Hobby Lobby for half off, so they were a great deal and super cute!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Christmas Goodies

Yesterday I was able to make some Christmas goodies with my mom and sister-in-law and her younger sister. Although we had quite a mess at one point (maybe even two points), we were able to make lots of wonderful goodies!! We made: Peanut Butter Balls, Martha Washington Balls, Orange Balls, Cheese Balls, Sausage Balls, White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups, Peanut Butter Cookies with White Chocolate, White Chocolate Covered Pretzel Sticks, Santa Cookies and Chex Mix. Needless to say, we were busy all day long, but we had a blast. Here are a few pictures.

I can't wait for Christmas!!!

Cake Mix Cookies

I wanted to share this recipe for some delicious cookies that I got from my aunt. They are quick and easy to make and taste great too!!

Cake Mix Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 Butter recipe boxed cake mix
• 1/2 cup self rising flour
• 2/3 cup oil
• 2 eggs
• 6-8 ounces of chocolate chips or peanut butter chips

Directions:

• Mix all the ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.
• Scoop out onto greased cookie sheet.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes.

ENJOY!!

These would also be a perfect cookie to leave for Santa on Christmas night!!