Except for exchanging gifts with my parents who are coming in a few days, Christmas is now over and while part of me is depressed another part is a bit relieved. It is nice to take a breather from the shopping, gift wrapping, baking and cleaning. And since we had Christmas Eve dinner with my sister and her family and Christmas day dinner with my in laws I hadn’t planned on preparing a big meal. However, since I didn’t have my traditional Christmas ham dinner I decided to make my own holiday menu at the last minute the day after Christmas which turned into dinner for 12. Read more »

Baked corn, corn pudding, scalloped corn, whatever you choose to call it, this recipe is always a hit at most holiday meals. It goes well with our turkey on Thanksgiving as well as our Easter and Christmas ham. If you haven’t had what we usually refer to as simply baked corn, you are really missing out. This is a favorite for both children and adults. Try it at your next holiday party. Read more…

For some reason when I think of lemon poppy seed bread I think of Spring.  There is really something special about it that makes it perfect for either company or to serve every day.  This quick and easy bread is actually more of a cake and that would be delicious served on Easter with brunch or as a light dessert after dinner.  I have also included a quick and easy punch to serve along with your get together. Read more »

Even though it is just 20 degrees out as I am typing this I know that spring is right around the corner.  One of my favorite vegetable in the springtime is asparagus.  I always serve it at Easter time either steamed or roasted and even though asparagus is sometimes a bit pricey I usually find it on sale Easter week.  This is a great asparagus recipe to serve as a side dish or even a light lunch. Read more »

I love making dump cake and here are two variations that are both popular for family get togethers. Save money by stocking up on the ingredients when on sale since canned and boxed goods often have a long shelf life. I normally keep coconut and nuts in the freezer so that they will last longer. I also store the leftovers in the refrigerator. Read more »

For a nice Southern New Year’s dish serve up some Hoppin John, which is another way to serve black eyed peas in the South.  Try serving with ham, cooked greens and corn bread. Read more »

I think I made this buffalo chicken dip for the first time over Memorial Day. Ever since I have been asked to bring this to every family function or holiday and someone always asks for the recipe. Some like to use bleu cheese dressing instead of ranch but since this has quite a kick to it I prefer the ranch. This really does taste like chicken wings but without the mess! Read more »

I am not from the South, however I have friends who are and they always eat black eyed peas for New Year’s.   Since black eyed peas are economical and easy to prepare why not make up some for New Year’s day.  Read more »