"Suppers on the Porch" ...Project Progress ;-)

 Hey y'all...hope your week is going great. I'm so excited to share w/ y'all the last 2 squares of the "Fun-ctional" Table decor. I love this fabric "Porch Swing" by Riley Blake Designs. The prints & hues are stunning. So far we've completed the 4 "Octagon Bird Squares" on my quilting blog and next up is the 'fun-ctional" centerpiece square. You'll be using Insul-bright which is a thermo lining for hot/cold items. I love to insert insul-bright into a quilt block to use when entertaining. This design is a great space-saver too. Once we have completed the last step of the "fun-ctional centerpiece" you will be able to "stack" the squares when not in use. I will admit it's super cute for outdoor entertaining but would look great indoors too! You never know what the weather is going to be, so I love a multi-functional design :-) I'll be posting the last step of the runner soon on my quilt blog. If you still need supplies my link to Missouri Star Quilt Co. will save you 20% off $50. or more for the month of April. Also please follow MSQC website. They have great daily deals...tutorials for inspiration. I thank y'all so much for following and check back soon!

Blessed Quilting from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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"Suppers on the Porch" Fun-ctional Table Decor...Phase 3

 Hey y'all...hope your week is going well. I wanted to give you a "Sneek Peek" of how my Scrap-a-long "Suppers on the Porch" is coming along. I'm having a blast...the fabric "Porch Swing" by Riley Blake Designs is super fun & the Templates from Missouri Star Quilt Co are great to work with and great quality too. If you like entertaining outdoors...supper on the porch and listening to birds sing, then you will love this design. I hope you're having as much fun as me & it's not too late if you're just joining in. My designs are super easy & broken into Phases so you can come "Scrap-a-long" w/me anytime. Also, my link to MSQC will save you 20% off $50. or more for the month of April if you still need supplies. I hope you pop on over to their website for all the tutorials...daily deals & all the fun inspiration the "Doan Ladies" have to share with us. They are sew inspiring and tutorials are super fun & easy to follow along. Well, come join me on my quilting blog and let's create this super cute "Fun-ctional Table Decor" for your outside entertaining. If you're like me, you'll probably use indoors too :-) I thank y'all so much for following and can't wait to share the "center piece recipe" w/y'all once the runner is completed. Missouri Star Quilt Co gives their affiliates products to "give-a-way" so please follow me on Instagram & Facebook so you don't miss out. I also do my own "appreciation give-a-ways" for my followers too. I just gifted a super cute Car Coaster & Quilter's Luggage Tag & a "quilty-friend" won all the way from Pennsylvania. How exciting! Talk soon.

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Pics below of progress & how I alternated the "background fabrics" within the blocks...Super fun & easy w/my "Crazy-Scrap-Piecing technique"...no Paper-Piecing :-)

"Suppers on the Porch" Fun-ctional Table Decor!

 Hey y'all...hope you're having a great week. I wanted to let y'all know my Scrap-a-long..."Suppers on the Porch" has started on my quilt blog. This is such a easy design & fun-ctional. The fabric "Porch Swing" by Riley Blake designs was my inspiration. I love spring weather, eating & relaxing on the porch. This table decor is super easy & you'll be excited to decorate with for your porch entertaining. It is made up of 5 individual Octagon squares that come 2ther as a table runner. Four super cute bird squares using the Bird template by MSQC & one center Octagon square that is fun-ctional for hot/cold items. Phase 1 & 2 is up on quilt blog. Come join the fun and my link to Missouri Star Quilt Co. will save you 20% off $50. or more for the month of April on all supplies needed. I can't wait to share w/yall the recipe I have for the "center piece." hint hint.  Thanks so much for following!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Sneek-Peek of Phase 1 & 2... :-)

Project Peek of the Week..."Suppers on the Porch"

 Hey y'all...hope you had a great weekend. I'm super excited to share with you my new pattern "Suppers on the Porch." The fabric collection "Porch Swing" by Riley Blake Designs inspired my design. I love to sit outside listen to the birds and entertain. It's very relaxing for all. I will be featuring a "Fun-ctional Table Decor" for entertaining. Super fun & easy doing raw edge a-play-que. All the supplies from MSQC are listed on my quilt blog to get you started. You can also save 20% off $50. or more for the Month of April from MSQC.I hope you pop on over to my quilt blog and join in on the fun! I will also have a "super sweet" recipe to share w/y'all that will be the "center piece" once the runner is complete. It's Spring...so they say...still kinda crazy but you will love entertaining w/this fun-ctional table decor! We've been giving away items w/MSQC on Instagram & Facebook so I hope you're following me for all the fun events. Thanks so much for following & talk soon!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Happy National Scissor Day....& Scissor Give-a-Way!

 Hey y'all...hope your weekend is off to a great start. I'm thrilled to announce we are giving a way these lovely 8" Amelia Scissors by Missouri Star Quilt Co. All you need to do is pop on over to my "Facebook" page "Ihearditthroughthequiltvine" for all the details. I received one to use as an affiliate & one to give-a-way from MSQC. Sew exciting!Y'all they are so lightweight...textured Non-Slip Handle that provides a comfortable grip...reusable packing which is convenient for packing or those on the go quilting trips. & a protective plastic cover. Perfect gift for Mother's Day...Birthday or Just Because I love you! I will say they are sew easy to cut with...I used them recently to cut through the Lemon Canvas fabric by Art Gallery Fabrics and they were perfect! Easy to hold too w/my arthritic fingers :-) Don't forget these would make a great stocking stuffer too. My link will save you 20% off $50. or more for the month of April. So, pop on over to my "Facebook" page for all the details to win these amazing scissors by MSQC. Act quick...my giveaway closes at midnight on 4-14-24 @ midnight (Eastern Time)....Sew exciting! Thanks so much for following!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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"Better Together Aprons"...You're Never 2 old 4 Mother/Daughter Aprons!

 Hey y'all...hope all is going well and weather is being kind. My prayers to all going through this crazy "Spring Weather." Geeze...this has been nuts! I wanted to share w/y'all my recent project that would be a great Mother's day gift...graduation...birthday or just because I love you. The pattern "Better Together Aprons" by Missouri Star Quilt Company is super easy to follow & versatile too. Easily adjust the pattern for sizes and would make a super cute Mother/Son duo by just changing the fabric if needed. Speaking of fabric...I'm in Love w/the Sage Yuma Lemon Canvas by Art Gallery Fabrics. The quality is very easy to sew with that I even made the straps to coordinate. Yes, you can make the straps from the cotton twill tape that is stated on pattern project supplies. My goal was to challenge myself this year to step out of my comfort zone...try new things & I had a blast making the straps. These aprons are so special, and I can't wait to pack mine along when my daughter and I are cooking/baking together. I'm excited to share that MSQC extended their discount of 20% off $50. or more for the month of April. My link is on home page and it applies at checkout. Trust me it works...I just purchased some items for the upcoming Holidays :-) I know if you're like me you probably like to look "fashionable" when entertaining so don't forget to make one for yourself! I thank y'all for following and check back soon for more "fun-ctional projects." Enjoy!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Better Together Aprons pattern by Missouri Star Quilt Company...

Chuck loves his apron too :-)

Learn How to Make a "Ticker Tape" Quilt in This Free Quilting Tutorial V...

Hey y'all....hope your weekend is off to a great start. Spring is in the air along with Mother's Day approaching....graduation & all those summer birthdays. I wanted to share this awesome tutorial with you by Missouri Star Quilt Co. Jenny Doan is an amazing quilter. This design would make a great gift and scrap friendly too. I posted my fun projects on my quilt blog that I'll be hosting for the month of April along with my saving to MSQC. You can save 20% off $50. or more w/my affiliate link to MSQC for the month of April. My link to MSQC (upper right on home page) will take you to their website for daily deals...endless sewing/crafting/quilting supplies & tutorials. I hope you enjoy Jenny's tutorial & pop on over to my quilting blog for a super sweet month to kick of Spring. Also have some great recipes that I'll be sharing soon to make while you're working on those projects! :-) Thanks so much for following and talk soon!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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"Hexagon Heirloom Fun-ctional Table Runner"...Phase 1

 Hey y'all...hope your week is going great and looking forward to the weekend. Well, I'm starting a "fun-ctional" home decor on quilt blog today featuring this sweet embroidery kit in honor of Jenny Doan's grandmother Ingrid by MSQC. The kit...designs of wildflowers are stunning. Each of the 20 designs come with instructions for embroidery & tutorials on MSQC website. You will feel the love within every stitch you take. The kit comes with the original quilt design or you can create your own heirloom. I'll be hosting a fun-ctional table runner...gifts & decor using the embroidery designs. I love how therapeutic this has been for me...taking the time to relax and reflect on what's important. If you don't already have the kit MSQC is taking pre-orders on their website. You can also save 20% off $50. or more until March 31st. with my affiliate link (upper right on home page) So I hope you join me on my quilt blog as we cherish her legacy 2gether. Thanks so much for following & talk soon. Enjoy!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Cats Series..."Braiser 2 Table"..."Irish Stew w/Golden Potatoes"

 Hey y'all...hope you're having a great weekend and getting ready for St. Patrick's Day. This holiday is dear to my heart. It was my dear dad's favorite. We are an Irish family, so he like to have traditional moments but silly ones as well. I remember one Holiday we're he pinched me, and I said "hey...I'm wearing green1" He just shrugged his head and snickered. That was my dad! Fun memories. Well even if you're not of Irish decent you'll want to make this super easy stew. I love my Cuisinart Braiser pan it's so convenient for cooking then serving straight to the table. Plus, as you can see in the pic below it makes a statement when entertaining. I will share an old secret with y'all. I purchase an inexpensive piece of chuck roast because I let the meat simmer for several hours which makes the meat tender. Yes, I'm sure you could do the same in a crock pot but.... would that really make a great "statement" when serving. You would have to use a serving dish and for me that's just another dish to wash. The other secret is I use one packet of "Lipton Onion Soup Mix." Yup...has all the basic seasonings and inexpensive too. It's one of my "pantry staples" and your home will smell amazing :-) I wish y'all a Happy St. Patrick's Day & check back soon for more of my mini-series..."Braiser 2 Table." Thanks so much for following!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Note:...If you need any sewing/crafting/quilting supplies my link to Missouri Star Quilt Co. (upper right on home page) will save you 20% off $50. or more until March 31st. to celebrate National Quilting Month!

P.S....Today is National Quilting Day! Enjoy :-)

Here's all you need...

* Sm. Chuck roast or your preferred cut of meat

* Sm bag of Honey Gold bite size potatoes (of course I had to throw in the "Gold for St.Patricks Day"

* Sm. bag of mini carrotts

* 1 pkg. of Lipton Onion Soup Mix

* Salt/Pepper if desired

* Pinch of Humor :-)

Here's all you do...

* Coat the bottom of your braiser pan with olive oil or cooking oil. 

* Season your meat w/salt & Pepper and lightly sear on both sides on low-medium heat.

* Mix soup mix with 2 cups of warm water.

* Add potatoes & carrots to pan and cover with soup liquid.

* Bring to a slight boil then reduce heat to low....cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender. 

Tip...you will need to add warm water as it cooks which also makes the wonderful broth :-)

When meat is tender remove from pan...lightly shred or slice and place back in center of pan.

Makes a great presentation when serving :-)

Enjoy!

Cats "Sheet-pan Chicken Veggie Fajitas"

 Hey y'all...hope your weekend if off to a great start. I know a lot of you are excited about "Spring Break." I do miss planning outings & activities with my daughter. Seems like yesterday! Now I get to hear what they are planning with my grandson. I do remember evening dinners being a bit hectic after being gone all day. My chicken fajitas have been a weekly staple for me. I love how you can make a large amount...place in container and pull out...heat...make into quick tacos...salads...sandwiches...endless possibilities. Plus, they freeze well too. I use the "Perdue" chicken that comes individually wrapped. You can pull out as many needed if you're cooking for a small crowd. They are so convenient, and I actually tenderize them with my fingers while they are in the package. I'm a bit of a freak when it comes to chicken juice :-) You will love the smell as they are cooking due to the peppers, but you can add any veggies that your family desires. This is such an easy recipe...easy clean-up & baked in the oven. So, no worries about grilling if the weather is bad. I thank y'all so much for following. Don't forget if you need any sewing/crafting supplies MSQC is offering 20% off $50. or more until March 31st to celebrate National Quilting Month. (link upper right will take you to site & discount at checkout) I will say the smell of these fajitas is wonderful while sewing :-) Check back soon for a fun "series" that I'll be sharing in the kitchen. Have a great Spring Break!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Here's all you need...

* 1 pkg. Perdue individually wrapped Chicken Breasts (thawed)

* 2 small red...yellow...orange peppers (thinly sliced)

* 1 large zucchini (thinly sliced) or your desired veggies

* Fajita seasoning

Oil Mixture...blend 1/4 c zesty Italian dressing w/ 1 Tablespoon of olive oil.  Add Salt/pepper as desired.

Here's all you do...

* Pre-heat oven to 400*

* Line a baking sheet with Parchment paper & lightly spray w/cooking oil.

* Place chicken & veggies in pan.

* Brush oil blend mixture over all & season with fajita seasoning.

* Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes (ovens vary) ...carefully remove from oven (it will be juicy) and flip veggies and chicken over with tongs. 

* Repeat the oil blend and seasoning method and return to oven.

* Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until thoroughly cooked. (ovens vary)

* Slice chicken as desired.

Tip...I do small slices for the convenience of prepping with other meals.

Enjoy!

Talk soon,

Cat

Happy National Quilting Month plus a super deal from MSQC!

 Hey y'all....happy Friday! I'm always excited for the weekend but today is extra special. March is National Quilting Month & Missouri Star Quilt Co is offering 20% off $50 or more on orders all month long! Oh my gosh y'all...even if you don't quilt their website is full of supplies for all your sewing/crafting needs. I especially love their 'home decor" tutorials too. March will be a fun month...we're celebrating St. Patrick's Day & Easter! I'll be sharing some super sweet gifts plus a creative way to serve desserts and sides for the Holiday's. My affiliate link w/MSQC (upper right on home page) automatically applies the discount for you at checkout. I also would like to do a "shout out" for all to share the love of quilting with others. I've been sewing/quilting for many years, and I've enjoyed seeing how quilting has evolved throughout the years. It's so therapeutic & great skill to teach the kiddos. If you don't have a machine, try "hand embroidery." MSQC has wonderful tutorials to learn by & kiddos can embellish their own garments to wear. Check out especially how everyone is embellishing "tennis shoes & jackets." So, no matter your skill level or crafting desire pop over to MSQC website for inspiration. You will love it! I thank y'all so much for following and let's celebrate our love of quilting 2gether!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Embroidery 101: Hand Embroidery Basics for Beginners

Hey y'all...hope your weekend is going great. I wanted to share Natalie's tutorial with you. I love to personalize home decor or gifts and what better way than embroidery. Natalie will walk you through every step from supplies to techniques. You can view many of her tutorial on Missouri Star Quilt Co. website. My link (upper right on home page) will take you there and save 15% on supplies. Embroidery was one of the fist techniques that I learned as a child and I'm loving her tutorials. I'll be sharing fun projects soon using patterns from Missouri Star Quilt co. to personalize items for your home & gifts.

Enjoy! 

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Paid Partnership w/MSQC

Cats "Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese"

 Hey y'all...hope your week is off to a great start. Today is a bit chilly but sunny in Florida. Days like today make me want a grilled sandwich but not just an ordinary grilled cheese. Today I'm sharing my favorite grilled cheese with you that I believe you'll make anytime of the year. It does seem that when it's cold or rainy we gravitate to soup and sandwiches. It's that classic comfort food that we all love and probably had as a child like me. As I'm a "bit older" I've broadened my "grilled cheese" taste buds. Don't get me wrong I still love the classic especially paired with a hot bowl of tomato soup. But this recipe combines my favorite. Yes...I'm saying it.... dunking the grilled cheese into the tomato soup. Right? Oh my gosh...fun memories :-) We'll let me tell ya... you will get that same feeling with my "Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese". But no need for the soup unless you want. I love this grilled cheese especially because I'm using my fresh basil & favorite melting cheese. Store bought pesto would work great too. This sandwich brings back memories as a child but totally comforts you as an adult. Sometimes with those crazy hectic days we just want a bit of comfort but still easy & maybe a bit healthi-r :-) You can add your favorite meat if desired but please try it meatless first. I do love to eat it with a few walnuts in place of chips. I'm not a "vegetarian" but I will say this grilled cheese sandwich will totally warm your heart. It does me anyway :-) Thanks so much for following and pop over to my quilt blog for an exciting project happening soon. Don't forget to check out the "daily deals" from Missouri Star Quilt Co. for all your sewing/crafting/quilting needs. My link (upper right) on home page will save you 15% on most products at checkout. Stay warm y'all & talk soon!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Here's all you need...

* Favorite bread for grilling

* Roma tomato (thinly sliced)

* Fresh basil leaves

* Slice of Gouda & Mozzarella cheese (or your favorite)

* Pinch of Humor :-)

Here's all you do...

* Heat a non-stick skillet to medium

* Butter bread evenly

* Place bread butter side down...add one slice of cheese...then layer sliced basil & sliced tomatoes.

* Top with another slice of cheese then sliced bread...butter side up

* Grill to your desired liking then flip over until all cheese is melted.

* Remove and serve with a few nuts...chips...soup or salad. 

Enjoy! :-)

Cats Tip of the Day!..."Banana Bread Baking Tip"

 Hey y'all...hope you had a great Valentine's Day & your week is going well. I recently shared with y'all my favorite banana bread mix. I don't know about you, but I can make the same recipe and it comes out differently. I'm not sure if it's my oven or just because I made it on a Wednesday instead of Saturday. Who knows but this tip will help. Once my bread has been baking for the designated time and it still looks a bit undercooked in center I remove it from the oven, Shut the oven temp off...then wrap the pan in aluminum foil & place back in over for about 5 more minutes. Then I remove...keep the foil on and place on a trivet on counter for an additional 45 minutes to an hour. The steam will actually continue baking the bread and once it's cooled you will have a very moist banana bread. I know this might sound a bit tedious, but it works. I've even done this tip with brownies. :-) This is where I always say a "pinch of humor" on my recipes. Sometimes ya just need to laugh! Plus, a good tip can't go wrong either. I started doing this tip due to my dear grandmother that baked bread every morning. I could never understand why she always wrapped her bread in a "tea towel." More so of why she baked bread every morning. I guess that was her "thing" or being a sweet Irish woman. I believe she enjoyed giving some away to neighbors too. I will say waking up to the smell of freshly made bread while visiting will be a memory I'll cherish forever. I hope this tip helps. Also, we have exciting things happening on my quilt blog, so I hope you pop on over as well. Thanks so much for following and talk soon!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Don't forget to check out the "Daily Deals" from Missouri Star Quilt co. My affiliate Link (upper right on home page) will take you to their site and save you 15% on most products @ checkout...enjoy!

Havin' a Gnome-ful Year!..."Irish Gnome"

 Hey y'all....wanted to share a quick post with you. The Irish Gnome pillow wrap instructions was just posted on my quilting blog. Oh my gosh...this is such a fun series to follow. We'll be making a pillow wrap w/monthly gnomes from "The Whole Country Caboodle." I love to decorate the guest room for the holidays, but my storage space is limited. So this is my new series "One Pillow...Sew Many Ways" great space saving technique plus they fold easy for storage. The Valentine Gnome has been a hit so I hope you follow along with me. I'm super excited with these patterns. They are super adorable and easy to do. My kind of project. Plus, the cutest home decor ever :-) The February design was pretty basic then the "Irish Gnome" is using a charm pack or "Karat gem" by Willmington Fabrics. The fabric hues in this collection matches the Gnome perfectly. This pattern is a bit advanced, but you can always make as the February gnome if desired. I love to challenge myself, but you know me it will still be easy to follow. I do things a bit easier with my back issues but not giving up on what I love. Just in moderation. It's all about "thread and fabric therapy" for me. Takes my mind of pain even if it's just for a few minutes. I'll be hosting their collection all year and you can purchase the patterns from Missouri Star Quilt Co. Plus save 15% with my affiliate link (upper right on home page) I hope you join in on the fun & "Let's have a Gnome-ful year 2gether!"

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Best Banana Bread..."Mix-up!"

 Hey y'all...hope you had a restful weekend.  Seems Mondays come faster every week. I used to get frustrated starting a new week but now I try to challenge myself and think what I can accomplish. Trust me...not bragging,,,it's a short list. :-) I've always been a 'list person." It brings me joy when I scratch something off my list and if I have a few things left then I just carry them to next week or sometimes just say 'oh well." I will say Mondays are a bit more exciting for me lately due to "At Home w/Misty". She does tutorials on Mondays which motivates me for the rest of the week. I'm trying to post some of her tutorials, but you can google her for any you might have missed. Missouri Star Quilt co. does great weekly tutorials & have almost everything you need for your sewing...crafting supplies. I'm blessed to be part of their affiliate team so my link on upper right of blog will save you 15% on mostly all items. I know for me any savings these days is awesome. Check out the fun projects happening on my quilt blog too. So, here's a funny...I love banana bread and have tried many recipes and made a few of my own. Recently a sweet neighbor dropped by with some banana bread. It looked so moist that I insisted on getting the recipe. She laughed and proceeded to tell me where you get it in the produce section. I thought weird...she just said she made this. Hmmm. Well, this delish banana bread recipe is a "mix." I couldn't believe. it. It is now a staple in my pantry. I will say it sells out quickly. You will find the mix usually by your "bananas." :-) Don;t laugh,,,I actually asked where it was located in the store. Anyway, if you want a easy one bowl mix this defiantly will bring you joy. The bread is made with wheat flour so check your dietary needs. I do add a bit more ingredients that I'm sure you already have on hand. You could add nuts too. I try to make it weekly then slice and freeze for individual servings. With this crazy weather there is nothing better than a cup of coffee and a slice of banana bread. Enjoy!

Blessed Cooking from my Home to Yours,

Cat

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Here's all you need...

* 1 pkg. Chiquita Banana Bread Mix 

 With their stated ingredients of...

* 1 cup mashed bananas....approx. 2 over-ripe bananas

* 1 large egg (slighlty beaten)

* 1/3 c. water

I add...

* 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

* 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg

* Pinch of Humor (a must in the kitchen)

Here's all you do...

* Prepare & Bake as directed on Banana Bread Mix.

Enjoy!

Tip....ovens vary so check yours towards the last few minutes of baking time. 

I'll be trying a "hack" with this recipe soon so wish me luck!

Talk soon,

Cat

"Left-over Spaghetti Sauce w/a Twist!"

 Hey y'all...hope your week is going great. The weather is crazy, and I don't know about you but I'm still wanting comfort food. This morning it was foggy but in the 50"s and all I could think about was chili...or soup or anything hot. It's funny how the weather does predict what we make for dinner. Least in my crazy world. I had left-over spaghetti sauce recently but didn't want the same old thing. Sometimes I get in a rut and end up cooking the same things. Wouldn't it be nice to "ring a dinner bell" and everything would be done and all we had to do was sit at the table. Definitely a dream in my world. Well, the recipe I'm sharing with y'all is so easy that I almost decided not to share with y'all. Then I had to tell myself this might be what everyone is seeking...a 'change" with left-overs. Right? This would definitely be wonderful on those hectic dinner nights. I will say that when I make my spaghetti sauce, I do make a lot and freeze. Now instead of the same old spaghetti I do a "casserole" with the large stuff pasta shells. Don't laugh y'all...it actually looks "restaurant quality" when served. Perfect with a side salad or whatever your family desires. You can 'stuff" the shells with any cheese, but I did grated mozzarella in shells than as additional on top. I hope you give this one a try especially if you have kiddos. It's definitely a favorite in my house. Thanks so much for following and pop over to my quilt blog for some exciting projects that were recently posted. If you need any sewing/crafting supplies my link on upper right of home page will take you directly to Missouri Star Quilt co. where you can get a 15% discount at checkout. They have just about everything you need for all your sewing & crafting projects. Talk soon!

Blessed Cooking from my Home to Yours,

Cat

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Here's all you do....

* Pre-heat oven to 350*

* Pre-cook past until al dente...drain & set aside to cool.

* Spray a casserole dish with non-stick spray and coat bottom of dish with spaghetti sauce.

* Stuff each shell with your favorite cheese and layer in dish.

* Layer more sauce on top then grated cheese.

* Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes...remove foil then bake for additional 10m.

* Ovens vary so check to make sure the sauce is heated through. 

Tip...I like to place my dish on a baking sheet for easy removal from oven. Plus, it's safer :-)

This is a very filling dish so a side salad may be all you need to compliment the dish. 

Enjoy! 

"Leap Year...extra day of Sewing...Cooking & Quilting!"

 Hey y'all...hope your week is going great. Did you notice it's "Leap Year?" I'm super excited for an extra day because we have a lot of projects to do 2gether. I love the items that I will be sharing from Missouri Star Quilt Co. We'll be having a "Gnome-ful Year" 2gether using the adorable patterns by the Whole Country Caboodle. The Irish Gnome is so adorable. You'll use "One Pillow...Sew Many Ways!" As promised, we'll be celebrating "Quilt-mas Cheer all year!" making a table runner for entertaining using the Snowflake templates by MSQC. I'm also sharing tips on inheriting items from a loved one of how not to stress during this difficult time. As you know I lost my dear mom-in-law last year whom as an exceptional quilter. So, stay tuned of how I use a "charm pack" that I've inherited and using them with this fun & easy pattern "Hunter's Star" by MSQC. We'll be getting organized together with those adorable "binders" from MSQC and don't forget we are doing the "Summer Strolls Triple Play" block of the month together. Plus, we all need to eat..right? So, stay tuned for some healthi-r recipes too! Oh my gosh y'all...now you know why I'm super excited for an extra day :-) You can view more details on my quilt blog plus don't forget you can use my affiliate link from MSQC to save 15% on supplies. I thank y'all for following and lets "make" this month extra special 2gether. 

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Paid Affiliate with MSQC

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"Havin' a Gnome-ful Year!" Pillow wrap home decor!

 Hey ya'll....hope you had a great weekend. Mine went too fast as usual. I wanted to share a fun project that's happening on my quilt blog. I'm making a pillow wrap with these adorable Gnome patterns by "The Whole Country Caboodle." They are the cutest seasonal gnomes and pre-cut too. I'll be featuring monthly designs with techniques from beginner to advanced. But here's the kicker...we'll be using one pillow all year...that's right "One Pillow...Sew Many Ways!" If you're like me, I love to have decorated pillows out for the holidays, but I'm limited on space. So, this way we can have our cute decor out and when we're on to the next month we just fold the wrap for easy storage. I've designed this concept with previous pillows (my fish pillow using Christmas pillow) and love it. Even if I had tons of storage, I would still use this concept. I hate opening a closet and pillows come tumbling down :-) You can purchase these adorable patterns from Missouri Star Quilt Co. plus save 15% with my affiliate link too. Link on upper right will take you directly to their website and discount appears at checkout. My February wrap design is pretty simple, but you can totally put your spin on it. I did give him some super cute "pink highlights" in his beard using Aurifil thread :-) I can't wait for y'all to see the "March Gnome." He reminds me of my late dad. Super cute! Well minus the pink highlights...dear dad was a  military man :-)  So, pop on over to my quilt blog and let's have a "Gnome-ful year 2gether!" Thanks so much for following and check back soon for a pasta dish that will definitely warm you :-)

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Paid Partnership w/ MSQC

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Super cute "Hearts and Kisses" Trivet for Entertaining.

 Hey y'all...warm Sunday blessings to you. I wanted to share a quick design for Valentine's entertaining. I just posted on my quilt blog trivets using the "HEARTS AND KISSES" pattern by Missouri Star Quilt Co. y'all please follow along on my quilt blog to make these fun trivets. Oh my gosh you will be surprised of how fast and easy these blocks come together with their clever techniques. Also, if you need the pattern or any sewing/crafting supplies you can save 15% with my affiliate link from Missouri Star Quilt Co. Link upper right on block and discount will appear at checkout. I'm super excited to share home decor projects with y'all so keep following. I have more fun & easy projects to share w/y'all. In the meantime, try some of my easy soup recipes that I previously posted. They will definitely keep you warm in this crazy weather. Thanks so much for following and y'all stay safe & warm.

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

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Paid Partnership w/MSQC

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"Cats Creamy Chicken Soup w/drop Biscuits..!"

 Hey y'all...hope your weekend is off to a great start. I know a lot of us are dealing with crazy cold weather, so I wanted to share this family favorite recipe. I love making this recipe any time but especially when the weather is cold. It's super easy to make...easy on the budget and you can "sneak" a veg in for the kiddos. We're kind of basic on the veggies...it's mostly corn...carrots but tweak recipe to your family's needs. It will serve 3-4 easily but you can adjust amounts to accommodate a larger crew. While this is simmering the smell will warm you up a bit. Might even bring home some memories of Omas "Chicken and Dumplings." Yes...they were in the kitchen all day prepping but sorry y'all...this is made with a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Yup...super easy. Here's a hint...if you quietly ask your deli section for a "fresh cooked rotisserie chicken"...you just might get one hot right off the rotisserie! Sure, makes peeling it a lot easy when it's warm. I asked the other day, and nobody was around me...then he came back with my "hot bird", and I heard voices behind me "can i have one too." Needless to say, "I boogied." They do like to sell the ones already wrapped first although you can ask for the time when it was wrapped. O.K. enough of my O.C.D. with chicken :-) Oh if you haven't heard.....my discount link w/ Missouri Star Quilt co. is good for all month long. No longer a 1 x use. Oh my gosh...that's exciting plus they have daily deals on their site. I fully recommend signing up for their email so you can catch their special savings. My direct link is upper right on home page, and you will see me discount code and checkout to apply. Well, we have a lot going on this year and I appreciate y'all following me too. Remember do what you love whether it's cooking, sewing, crafting. Take time for yourself. I totally believe in "thread and fabric therapy." Helps me tremendously...even if it's just a minute or two. Take care y'all & be safe!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

MSQC Affiliate

Paid Partnership w/MSQC

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Here's all you need...

* 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (already cooked)

* 1 pkt. Herb ox sodium free chicken bouillon mixed w/2 cups warm water.

* 1 (10.oz ) can Campbells Cream of Chicken Soup

* 1 (15 oz.) can Del Monte Fiesta Corn (don't drain)

* 1 cup chopped carrots or your favorite veggies

* 1 can Grands Southern Homestyle Biscuits

* Pinch of humor! :-)

Here's all you do...

* In large non-stick stock pot heat on low-medium heat the shredded chicken, broth. veggies, cream of chicken soup & mix well.

* Bring to a medium boil then reduce heat and simmer until veggies are tender. 

* Then bring back up to a medium boil and "drop tiny pieces of biscuits" in....reduce heat and cook for about another 10 minutes. Stirring occasionally.

Tip...keep checking to see if you need to add more broth while the biscuits are cooking. The biscuits will give your creamy consistency that we all love so much in "Chicken and Dumplings."

Serve with a side salad or your family's favorite.

This recipe freezes well but you need to add more broth once it's thawed when re-heating.

Enjoy & talk soon,

Cat

Exciting News from Me 2 You!

 Hey y'all...hope your week has been great. I'm super excited to share a along with y'all that my affiliate link with Missouri Star Quilt Co. is great for saving 15% all month. Not just for one time anymore. I know when the weather is crazy it's fun to stay in and craft. So, whatever your sewing/quilting/crafting needs might be you will find it on their website. Missouri Star Quilt Co. has awesome quality products plus customer service. Win...win in my books! They also host daily deals too! My affiliate link is upper right on home page for your convenience. Also, follow on my quilt blog for a super fun & easy Valentines or Christmas "Scrap-a-long." I'm featuring "HEARTS AND KISSES" pattern by MSQC but I'm making a sweet baby quilt. I love to give a baby gift that is Christmas inspired so they can use it through the years. You know me..." 1 design...sew many ways!' This design is super fun and today I posted a "tip" of how to try new blocks in 2024. One block @ a time! Well, I'm wishing y'all a safe & warm weekend. Thank so much for following!

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

MSQC Affiliate

Paid Partnership w/ MSQC

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"Wishing us all a "Soup-r Year w/ Cats Spanish-Style-Soup!"

 Hey y'all...hope all is well and the weather is being kind in your area. I watch the weather channel every morning while doing my morning stretches. Funny how words change as you get older. Now it's called "stretches" :-) Anyway...when I think my weather is rough, I just look at what's going on in the world. Oh, my goodness...I survived -10 (one winter) in Indiana and that was enough for this Texas gal. Wow...that was the craziest winter for me and now the northern states are embracing for a doozie. I know when the weather is cold, I always gravitate to a hot soup. Not only is soup usually light on the budget but it's convenient for a hectic night as well. Most recipes you can let simmer while you tackle your tasks or even slow cooker friendly. Either way I'll be sharing some of my family favorite soups that are budget friendly and timesaving too. I love to cook mine slowly in my Cuisinart stock pot (5qt) but you adapt to your family's needs. Also, I have promised y'all more "home decor" projects so pop on over to my quilting blog for some exciting patterns/projects that have already started. With this crazy weather it sure makes staying in crafting/sewing/quilting. Plus, you can save 15% on supplies with my link from Missouri Star Quilt Co. (1 x use in January) and link upper right on home page for your convenience. Trust me whatever your crafting needs are I'm sure you can find it on their site. While you are enjoying their site please check out their "Summer Strolls Tripple Play" B.O.M. Oh my goodness y'all it is stunning. My post on quilting blog just might get you excited as me :-) My discount does not apply towards the monthly B.O.M. but sometimes ya just need to treat yourself. I've learned life is too short and sewing/quilting makes me happy plus I'll be making it as a gift. Win..win...for me...Christmas gift starting in January! Yup...first of many y'all. I promised you so keep following. I'll be posting fun & easy projects along with recipes to help with those hectic evenings. As always, I thank you so much for following & wishing us all a "Soup-r 2024!" 

Blessed Cooking from My Home to Yours,

Cat

MSQC Affiliate

Paid Partnership w/MSCQ

Follow on Instagram...Facebook & Pinterest (links upper right on home page)

Here's all you need...

* 1/2 of a store-bought rotisserie chicken (shredded)...theirs your time-saver folks!

* I Knorr Spanish Rice pkt.

* 1 pkt. Herb ox granulated chicken (sodium free bouillon) whisk w/ 2 cups hot water.

* 1 10oz. can Old El Paso red enchilada sauce

* 1 16oz. can Bush's best chili beans (mild)

* 1 16oz. can Bush's best black beans (drained)

* Pinch of love

Optional topping but d'lish........crumbled queso fresco on top or sour creme.

Here's all you do...

* In medium stock pot spray bottom w/cooking oil. On low heat warm chicken if needed.

Stirring constantly. 

* Add in chicken stock & Spanish rice pkt. (enjoy that smell as the seasons come 2gether)

* Stir well on medium heat until it comes to a light boil.

* Add in enchilada sauce...beans & mix well.

* Heat on low for a least 30 minutes. 

Note...rice will absorb liquid while it cooks so add more broth while cooking.

* You can add more seasoning if desired but the Spanish rice pkt has seasonings so taste as it cooks.

Crumble queso fresco on top just before serving. Corn bread is a great compliment for this recipe :-)

Enjoy!

Tip...if you have leftovers, you might notice that you no longer have liquid. The rice continues to absorb liquid but here's the fun....you now have a great filling for a burrito. Or just add more broth when heating but sometimes I love a great burrito filling :-)

Talk soon,

Cat

Happy New Year from My Home to Yours!

 Hey y'all....happy 2024! I hope everyone rang in the New year as you wished. I was blessed to have time with my daughter's family. Needless to say, this is one Happy Gege! I'm excited about the projects and recipes I have to share with y'all. As you know I love cooking and quilting. I'll be sharing designs and projects but also incorporating my love for healthi-r recipes as well. Yes, I'm still working on the weight-loss-journey but that's o.k. too. My son-in-law recently told me that it's a "lifestyle" change. I honestly never look at it that way. He stated you need to just make the time for you then it becomes a routine, and you don't even think about it...it just happens. My 13 yr. old grandson has this mental concept already and that' s why he achieves his goals as well. I can't state enough how proud I am of my daughter's family. They help keep me staying focused and I totally need that! :-) My projects will state my affiliate link with Missouri Star Quilt Company which will give you a 15% discount (one x use per month) for your sewing/quilting needs. The link is stated on upper right of blog for your convenience. I do receive a kick-back when you do so I appreciate it and will state they have great products & customer service. The first project pictured below is from Santa. The Measure once cuss twice pattern can be purchased from MSCQ. I definitely need to see this in my sewing room and obviously Santa did too :-) I thank you so much for following and looking forward to creating a Scrap-tacular year 2gether!

Blessings from My Home to Yours,

Cat

MSQC affiliate

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Happy New Year from Me & Chuck!

1st project of 2024! (starting mid-week)