Raspberry Greek Yogurt Popsicles

One of the items on our Summer Bucket List is to make homemade popsicles.  I found these fun and inexpensive popsicle molds in the seasonal aisle at Kroger and immediately tossed them into the cart.  Last night we made our first batch.  I knew I wanted the ingredients to be simple, straight-forward, and include Greek yogurt. They set up overnight and are quite yummy...if I do say so myself.

What's for Dinner? [Vicky and Shala's World Famous Seasoned Green Beans]

A couple years ago some dear friends delivered a meal to Hubby and me.  Not only could we not have appreciated it more, it was delicious.  Hubby simply couldn't stop talking about the green beans.  They were kind enough to share the recipe and he requested them at least once a week...For months I heard, "How about the World Famous Green Beans tonight?" all. the. time.  They continue to be a favorite, and I think of their sweet friendship each time I make them, as I did tonight. 

What's for Dinner? [Three Envelope Roast]

I'm a big fan of the crock pot, but unfortunately Hubby is not.  Well, I should rephrase that...I'm a big fan of the convenience of the crock pot, but struggle to find recipes that are flavorful and not bland.  This recipe fits the bill perfectly.  (Although it is so extremely simple one can hardly call it a recipe.)

World's Greatest Daddy

Today I am reminded of just how lucky I am to have the World's Greatest Daddy.  He is my biggest fan, supporter, and cheerleader, all while encouraging me to be the best that I can be.  He is kind, generous, thoughtful, intelligent, and funny. He loves my brothers and me unconditionally.  I'm proud to be his daughter.  He is the first man I ever loved, and I love him with all my heart. In fact, I've tried and tried to put it down in words, just how much, but can never seem to do it or him justice.

Happy Father's Day, Pop!

Chow Down Midtown [Marco's Restaurant and Lounge]

Tonight Bestie KP and I celebrated her big accomplishments in her surgery recovery and enjoyed a yummy dinner at Marco's Restaurant and Lounge, which was participating in Chow Down Midtown.  Many different local restaurants participate in the couple week event in which restaurants offer a price fixed menu for three courses.  It is a great opportunity to visit try new places, but also visit some old favorites.  Marco's definitely fits into the latter.  I have been going there with my family since I was young, and it never disappoints.

It was a spectacularly lovely evening and we had a corner table on the patio, which is beautifully landscaped....

Source

Friday the Thirteenth

Hubby and I had our first date on the thirteenth and we married on the thirteenth.  The first year of marriage we celebrated the 13th of each month with a bottle of champagne.  (I mean let's be honest.....I love a good reason to drink champagne.)  As time has passed though, life has gotten in the way, and our 13th celebrations became fewer and further between.  With it being a rough couple weeks working long hours, the passing of Hubby's grandmother, and not being able to spend much time together, I decided this Friday the Thirteenth was the perfect time to start this little tradition back up again.  So.....TGIF the 13th!

Happy Weekend!!!

Ramblings

It's been a crazy start to summer, but I couldn't be happier that it's here!  I've been riding my bike to work.  I love it....although anyone that knows me will tell you I'm not a very proficient cyclist.....but I can take all back roads and a "rail trail" for cyclists and walkers.  So far, so good!

Summer Bucket List

Summer is finally here!  At the start of each summer I think of all the things I want to do during the warm, relaxed (?) months.  Sometimes they get done, sometimes they don't.  This year I decided to make a Summer Bucket List to serve as a reminder of the things we want to do.  Time seems to slip by so quickly, and hopefully this will help us to remember to slow down and enjoy our time together.  (In fact, to further prove my point that we need a reminder....this has been on my list of things to do for a while now, and the first week of summer vacation has already slipped by.  The good news is we have crossed off a few of the items.)

What's Not Going to be for Dinner Again? [Cheesy Pesto Chicken Thighs]

Well friends, I had planned for this post to be a recipe for Cheesy Pesto Chicken Thighs that I originally found on Pinterest.  I mean, it sounds great, right??  And it's wrapped in prosciutto, which should make it even better.  Ummmm.....not so much.  It ended up being a greasy, salty mess.  This is the second recipe using pesto that I've made that has been a flop.  And since I still have part of my Costco size jar of pesto left, I'm turning this post into a plea for help.....Anyone have any yummy recipes using pesto?? I'd be grateful if you'd share!  Thanks!!

P.S.  At least now you know I'm not going to post a recipe we don't really love :)

Happy Cooking!

Summer Relaxing

After working straight through the weekend with 13-14 hour days and some extremely long and hectic days to start the summer tennis program, I decided there was only one thing I could do....put everything on hold and do some fishing with Hubby.  We spent a nice, relaxing, gorgeous evening on the pontoon while we threw in a line or two.  The housework, laundry, weeding, and even blog writing didn't get finished, but it was exactly what the doctor ordered.  Not to mention, exactly what summer should be all about.  Hope you are yours are enjoying your start to summer the best way you know how, too! 

Wedding Season [Personalized Gift II]

The other day I mentioned the Personalized Wedding Bowls I love to gift to newlyweds, but I also have another go-to gift I'd like to share with you.  The personalized wedding silhouettes by Elaine's Prints are the perfect shower gift for a blushing bride.  I was lucky enough to receive one from Bestie S and her mom as a shower gift myself and I just adore it.  It hangs in a grouping with a framed wedding invitation (also a gift from a dear friend) and our Stefana and serves as a reminder of our special day. Both Bestie S and her mom also have their own hanging in their homes, too.



Elaine's Prints Esty Shop

Wedding Season [Personalized Gift I]

It's that time of year again....wedding season is upon us. Since shower and wedding invitations are starting to roll in I wanted to share a favorite gift I enjoy giving to the happy couple.  Heather Shadron Pottery creates personalized handmade pieces, which are just lovely, and are completely unique.   She is a Georgian artist who makes these one-of-a-kind beauties.




Heather Shadron Pottery