Saturday, December 25, 2010

Chocolate Charm Cookies

Merry Christmas to one and all! I have been celebrating the right way! I have been in the kitchen for most of the time I have been home. Currently, I am watching my little sister and mom stir the chicken and noodles and put the dinner rolls in the oven. The kitchen is filled with all kinds of wonderful smells. I just wish I had a latte in my hand...damn you Pawhuska for being so rural. Oh well, life goes on.

I am sharing a recipe with you all. It is called, "Chocolate Charms." They are just a little ball of chocolate heaven and I think they are easy enough for anyone to make them. It is a cookie that is acting like a truffle, don't know if anyone will understand that, worth a try.

Chocolate Charm Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, plus more for dusting
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract(optional)


Directions:
1. Sift together flour, cocoa, and salt into a bowl.
2. Place butter in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.Beat on medium speed until fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add sugar, and beat about 2 minutes more, until very light in color and fluffy, occasionally scraping down the sides of the bowl with a spatula. Add vanilla, if using. Add flour
mixture, and combine on a low-speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a spatula if necessary, until flour is just incorporated and dough sticks together when squeezed with fingers. Form dough into a flattened disk; wrap in plastic. Chill until firm, at least, 1 hour.
3. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
4. Using a spoon, form dough into 1-inch balls; place on prepared baking sheets. Bake until firm, 20-30 minutes ; rotating halfway through. Cool completely on wire rack. Dust with cocoa powder just before serving. Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week.


Look at these precious little things, right before they go into the oven.


Finished product! All dusted with awesomeness!

Well, one round of presents is completed. My family was up at the crack of dawn to watch Jack tear into presents. After that, we all enjoyed some Christmas pancakes, another family tradition. Now we are in the kitchen waiting on the rest of the family to arrive... I wish they would hurry because my stomach is growling....and they just walked in! Party time!


Tuesday, December 21, 2010

In My Orange High Heels

It's official, I am a college graduate!  I can't say that I feel an overwhelming sense of "I am a grown up now."  Who knows, maybe I will gain that feeling over time...

Graduation went flawlessly, I am so happy with how everything turned out.  My two best friends were not going to be in town, so I had this bright idea.  What if they could decorate my cap, so that way it was like they were there with me.  They did just that, Kayla and Kristin did a wonderful job.  It was covered in orange sequins and rhinestone--just screamed Lindsey and I could be spotted from a mile away.  Next on the list, orange high heels.  I  almost gave up on finding them because it seemed like I have tried every possible store.  Kristin came to the rescue again--she knew right where to go.  I found the perfect pair of orange high heels for my graduation!  Also, I did get to celebrate with family and friends, what more could a girl ask for?

 

How wonderful is that?  I kept my hat too, I want to do something cool with it? Shadow box maybe?



The OPI burlesque collection "The Show Must Go On" and my newest addition!  My beautiful graduation present from my parents!  I never wear rings...this is the only exception.  I might never take it off!  It is very special to me.  My dad gave it to my mom when she was 19!  Isn't that adorable? 

I feel like I have checked a lot of things off of my to-do list.  It is nice to have that accomplished feeling, just puts a smile on your face.  I just can not believe I am done with school, it is crazy how fast time goes by.  Now its time for Christmas!  I am ready to make gingerbread cookies and eat a lot of wonderful food during the holidays.  I do enjoy that the most about Christmas, it is nice to celebrate with a family who all holds the same feeling towards the Christmas season.

Well, I feel like that is almost everything that has been going on in my life.  I am happy with how things are playing out.  Still searching for a job, but I feel like I am getting closer to that! 

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Cupcake Recipe Testing

Last week I purchased that new wonderful cupcake cookbook and I could not wait to dig into it.  So, I picked out three new recipes and decided to take them on.  I am really impressed with the outcome.  I think they turned out really well.

 

My all time favorite a lemon cupcake with lemon icing garnished with lemon zest.  I have such a weakness for anything lemon.  There is just something about it, I love the feeling you get when you take your first bite.


Next, a simple vanilla cupcake with lime frosting topped with coconut. Very interesting flavors this little cupcake has.  It takes your taste buds for a whirl.


Last, a coffee cupcake, coffee buttercream, with a dark chocolate dust, topped with a chocolate covered coffee bean. Bliss!  Heaven!  Awesome!  It's like having the perfect coffee cake, but it's a cupcake instead.  If you are interested in the recipe, I can post that for you too. I just don't have my cookbook handy or I would.

Monday, December 6, 2010

The Ranchers Club’s In Stillwater

Do you like steak?  Do you have a sweet tooth?  Well, we should be friends because I do too!  This weekend a lot of good food was consumed. Taking some off time from the social scene never hurt anyone, it did me some good.  I blame it on my small business management class-I had a huge project due today and that consumed most of my time. It is now dead week and I have some free time!  It's time to celebrate and I plan on doing so; especially since this is my last dead week of my college career.

Friday night I went to dinner with my adeepi family, however, we were missing one g little, Lynna.  Ranchers Club was the dining location.  We had the most wonderful dinner and ate like Kings, well I guess Queens.  We ate like the little Queen B's that we are.  I will let you just look at the pictures. (I am sorry if you hate pictures...but I think it makes reading more fun).  It's like reading a little kids book again; one of my personal favorites--Rainbow Fish, just so you know.

 

Please take not that this t-bone is almost as big as my face, medium rare--one word=perfection. And don't  kid yourself, I ate the whole thing.

 

Then we decided to order a dessert for the whole table, in addition to what we already had.  It was a wonderful apple thing with ice cream on top.  It was like a funnel cake almost....well minus the powder sugar.


Kayla, Kristin, and Ciara had this one, it's a dark chocolate goodness!  It was so rich that portion was just enough


I decided to be different (imagine that) This was mine, all MINE! It started off with milk chocolate, then to peanut butter, then the a dark chocolate.  Then how could you forget the dark chocolate edible art?  What is not to love about this whole situation.  Sheer bliss!

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Haul Out the Holly!

Christmas music has been on blast nonstop today.  It has made it more bearable.  My two tests are out-of-the-way and I couldn't be happier about it!  Who doesn't love a little Christmas cheer?  If you answered me, I don't like Christmas Cheer... a) turn that frown upside down or b) stop reading now, trust me.  Now Playing: "We Need a Little Christmas Now" Glee Cast

Haul out the holly;
Put up the tree before my spirit falls again.
Fill up the stocking,
I may be rushing things, but deck the halls again now.
For we need a little Christmas
Right this very minute,
Candles in the window,
Carols at the spinet.
Yes, we need a little Christmas
Right this very minute.
It hasn't snowed a single flurry,
But Santa, dear, we're in a hurry;
So climb down the chimney;

 

Look it's Santa! I know him, I know him! ( the great thing about this picture, I saw this yard decoration and thought it was a perfect photo opp.  I don't even know the people.  I am sure they didn't mind, right?)

Speaking of Holly, in 5th grade I had a show heifer and her name was Holly.  She was the most wonderful black Maine heifer.  Who else has noticed that Target had the best black Friday/Christmas commercials?  That blonde lady is to die for, she is a nut case!  I love her!  We would be friends...I like shopping and crafts!

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Cupcake Confessions

This week is stressful for me and I am sure every other college student out there.  I have three tests and working on finishing up a project that is due Monday. One test got out of the way this morning, small business management. It went well, so that is a sigh of relief. After lunch I went back to studying...my brain was stuffed full of information. I had to take a break.

Now it's time for a little confession. I am a little odd, yes I know. What you are about to read may or may not surprise you. I decided to go into Hastings, I went directly to the cookbook section and just sat there. I grabbed every cupcake cookbook I saw. Like a little child on Christmas morning, eager and excited I flipped through the pages looking at all of the wonderful creations. This made me feel at peace as if all was right in the world for those 30 minutes . I also made a purchase and have another that I still have my eye on. I just couldn't justify buying two today. I will have to reward myself another day.


Since next week is dead week, maybe I will have time to dive into this! Fingers crossed! I am taking another study break.  Although, I am about ready to wrap up this evening and call it good.  It has been a very long day and I am so looking forward to this weekend.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Take Time

Everyone is talented at different things.  Not everyone is good at the same things that you are.  It is important for us to take time and notice what others strengths are and take the time to admire them for what they are worth.  This is something that kind of gets neglected because it seems that everyone is bogged down with their own things.


Here is a picture of us together, just so you can put a face with the name.

Last night I got to spend some time with Kristin and she showed me her project that she has been working on for the past couple of months.  I always have looked at her projects and given her my input on them.  Something was different this time, I was really taken back by it all.  It was mind-blowing, breath-taking, just awesome.  I am so impressed with her and I admire her a lot.  I do not think enough people give her major credit.  They just think she picks out pillows for a living, false people!  Here is an example of what I was looking at.


That's looking over a room of cubicles in an office.

One day, Kristin will design my house, that is if I can get her to come back to Oklahoma. (I have a feeling she will be somewhere fabulous because she will be soo famous!) Take time to notice what someone else is doing and give them some praise! (who knows maybe someone will do it to you)

Monday, November 29, 2010

Just Typical

Some things never change.  Monday is my least favorite day of the week.  In that respect, I like to think I am a lot like Garfield the cartoon cat.  We both: hate Mondays, enjoy having our hair played with, love food, and professionals at taking cat naps.  Guess I have more in common with him than what I would have thought.

You know me, I have been sitting at Starbucks trying to study for a small business management test while listening to the Glee Christmas Album. Even if you are not a Glee lover like myself, you should give this album a chance.  It might change your opinion on Glee.  Their Christmas songs are just amazing; you will catch yourself tapping your foot along while having a huge grin on your face!  What more could you want?

Look what they did to my latte!  They made it smile...That made my day a little brighter!

It's official, Thanksgiving is over and Christmas time is in full swing!  Bring on the tacky Christmas sweaters, Elf (one of my favorite movies regardless of the season), Christmas lights/trees, music, and crazy mall shoppers!  It is the most wonderful time of the year!  It is upon us, so like it or not, it is here!

Monday, November 22, 2010

Food Network Magazine

There seems to be a magazine for everything that you could ever want/need/desire.  If you think of a good idea, there is probably already a magazine about it.  Although, maybe it is just a girl thing.  I am sure that girls are the target audience for most magazines...except a few that I know of.

 

As we all know, I am a food junkie.  Today, when I was in the store one caught my eye and I had to pick it up!  It's kind of fitting seeing how yesterday I was raving about gingerbread cookies.  I am pretty sure if I was a gingerbread lady, I would be wearing that exact outfit.  She is glamorous in a gingerbread lady kind of way.


 How wonderful is that?  Doesn't that just make your eyes open wide with the joy of Christmas?  I know just looking at that makes me feel like a little girl again!  It really was just what I needed!  Sometimes it really is the small things in life that bring you the most joy.

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Not My Gum Drop Buttons

I am getting in the Holiday spirit, it may be the gingerbread latte's talking.  I can't help but imagine myself cutting out gingerbread cookies with my mom, Lauren, and Jack.  Just the thought of it makes me want to jump up and down with excitement!


It is exciting that this week only has two days of class!  Then it is Thanksgiving, one day in the year to stuff yourself so full you fall asleep shortly after lunch then wake up just in time to watch football!   Then to wrap up the day, turkey sandwiches on homemade hot rolls accompanied with slice after slice of homemade pie all for dinner.  Other than Christmas, this is the best time of the year.  Anytime I get the excuse to eat as much as I want without being looked down upon, is a good day in my book.

Once again my old lady ways have gotten the best of me.  It seems like everyone is catching on to it.  Granted, I am a Martha Stewart fan...but the whole Martha goes to jail thing is not my favorite memory of her.  I got called out via twitter:

@brookeclay it's true confession time: I love organizing stuff. It makes me feel better.
@LindseyLL of course you do, Martha. You're basically a house-wife minus the husband and children. :-)

Monday, November 15, 2010

Brown Sugar and Apple Pork Chops

This weekend I felt adventurous and was handed a new recipe to try.  I am not the biggest pork chop fan, but since my family raises pigs we always have a surplus of pork.  So, I am always looking for ways to make pork more tasteful/fun.  This recipe is: not hard, it makes your whole house smell wonderful, and needs to be added to your collection.

Brown Sugar and Apple Pork Chops
Ingredients:
2 pork chops (1" thick)
1 apple sliced or chopped into small pieces
1 stick of butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
dash of cinnamon

Directions:

  1. Slice pork chops into small, thin slices. Cut apple into small pieces.
  2. In a large skillet, add 3/4 stick of butter and brown sugar. Cook the pork chop strips on medium heat until pork is cooked through (I ended up doing that for 10 mins)
  3. Once the pork chops start looking done, add the rest of the butter and the apples until slightly softened but not limp. (I did this for 5 mins)



Here is the finished product!

Prepare yourself because you are about to be in food heaven!

Today I have already had three lattes, taken an exam, and now at work.  I would call it a productive day.  However, I have a 10-page ag policy paper due Thursday that I have not even started on.  It should be an interesting few days.  I appreciate all prayers and hugs.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Jack Turns Seven

I should currently be sitting in Ag Policy class but please notice I am blogging.  A certain someone (also known as me) decided to skip class because of a guest speaker.  This is how I see it, I had homework due today and I already had it done and turned in, so why go?  Today is such a pretty day I just want to play...I can not help it.  It is the little kid Lindsey coming out in me.

Speaking of my inner child, I miss my favorite little kid, Jack Long.  My youngest brother who is seven years old.  He might be the coolest seven-year-old on the whole planet.  At first, I was not his biggest fan, but over the years, he has really grown on me.  He is always happy to see me when I come home and always has to catch me up on his little life.  I don't know...I just see a little bit of myself in him and I can't help but to love him.

This is from football homecoming my Sr. year.  I taught him how to do a perfect kiss face.


We were playing on top of the round bales at the dairy farm.  "We are almost to the sky!"


Jack showing off his strength....he managed to pick me up.  Not sure how I feel about this.

It is just weird how he has grown up so fast, I feel bad because I am not around that much.  But when I am at home, there is never a dull moment, it is like we never skipped a beat.  I really hope that I can stay close to home for a little while longer so I can watch him grow into the handsome young man I know he will become.

Friday, November 5, 2010

My Baylor BFF

Today is FRIDAY!  You know what that means?  College football is only hours away, everything that is Orange and wonderful is just around the corner. I am currently wearing my new orange wool scarf that I got this past weekend and it just ties everything together so wonderfully.  I am quite excited for the weekend, like always.  What can I say, I love college just not the class part of college.

Me and the Baylor Bear @ last years football game

Looking at that picture makes me really miss two things 1)those sunglasses.  I am not really sure what happened to them, but they are nowhere to be found. I look like a Hollywood movie star. 2) My long-ish hair, I am currently working on growing it out... Anyways, tomorrow we play Baylor and that is one of the teams in the big twelve that I like.  I have made a lot of really good friends down there.  When I was recruitment chair for my sorority a couple of years ago, I went down to watch their recruitment.  I stayed at a sister's house (at that point was a complete stranger, we made arrangements over the phone) for that week and just watched it all happen.  Little did I know, I would become such good friends with Ellen Miller.  She is just a gem!  Ellen is smart, passionate, adorable, and fun.  She also made a road trip to the wonderful Okstate to watch our recruitment.  Then last year I went to the Baylor/OSU game.


Me, Brit and Ellen @ OSU Alpha Delta Pi Bid Day 2009

Yes I know, look at my pose--typical sorority girl sass right there.  That pose is every girls secret, oops secrets out.  I have never been that great at keeping secrets anyway...I have a few tricks up my sleeve but that's what makes life  interesting, a little surprise now and then!

I am looking forward to Christmas, I am so ready  for gingerbread cookies and lattes.  I know that Thanksgiving is wonderful and it gets overlooked but I can not help it.  Christmas is so wonderful.  Also, if you have any ideas for holiday cookies/cupcakes let me know.  Furthermore, I now have in my hands a gingerbread cupcake recipe.  If you would like to sample some, I will send some your way.  I am thinking about sending baked goods to my friends that live out-of-town with a Christmas card and maybe some Christmases blend coffee.  Who wouldn't love that?  I know I sure would.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Abacus In Dallas

Last week was a blur to me, it might have been the busiest I have ever been with school.  Three tests the week after homecoming and during my birthday week, not the best life choice for anyone, including me.  I survived and made it to Friday and really that is all that matters.  I am sorry for my lack of blogging...I promise not to do that again.  I just know that you missed reading my witty little outlooks on life.

This weekend was filled with first.  Friday I had my first massage, it was a thoughtful gift from a special someone.  It is nice to be pampered and also appreciated.  That is something I always wanted to do for myself, it just always has gotten overlooked.  Well after my 1-hour heavenly massage experience I have decided to become  regular.  I think that is something that everyone should have the chance to experience, just saying.  Then it was off for a birthday weekend celebration!  It started off with a night in, crab legs and shrimp were prepared just for me (only one of my all time favorites).  Needless to say, I was impressed.  Next it was off to Dallas for my super secret birthday weekend, I really did not have a clue what was planned or what was going on.  When we arrived I checked into the spa that was awaiting my arrival.  That's when the magic started to happen, I had: my first facial, massage, manicure and pedicure. Only one word can use to describe this wonderful situation: delightful I felt like a completely different person after it was all said and done.  *Note to self: anyone getting a deep tissue massage, drink lots of water before and after.  Learn from my mistake...because I have been sore for the past couple of days.





To wrap up my day of bliss, we ended at Abacus to have dinner.  This may be the best dining experience I have ever had in my twenty-two years of existence.  At one point "I literally might lick my plate" was stated.   If you live in the Dallas area or planning on visiting there anytime soon, you must put this on your to-do list.  You will not be sorry you did, trust me.  I will just let the pictures do the talking.  I felt as if I needed a wheelchair to get me out of the restaurant after the dining experience was concluded.  I could not move...I was in a food coma and it was totally worth it.

Sunday was filled with shopping and other goodies!  We mad a special stop at The Cupcakery!  I was pretty darn excited about this because let's be honest, I want to have a cupcake shop so bad I can hardly stand it!  This place was fantastic, I am a huge fan.  Everything about them was great, the texture,  color, flavor, and venue.  There was not more that I could really ask for.  Speaking of cupcakes, I also made a stop at Juicy Couture and snatched up a cupcake necklace that I have had my eye on for quite some time.  I have worn it every day since.  "When I look at your cupcake necklace, it is like I am looking at your soul."  That is just a sample of what people have been saying when they see it.



O.P.I nail polish can give you a completely different outlook on life.  Okay...that might be a little over dramatic, but not really if you are a girl you understand.   I went to the salon on Friday morning/afternoon right when I was checking out the newest O.P.I collection was sitting on the counter.  The Burlesque Holiday Collection is absolutely wonderful, it was love at first sight.  I ended up picking up two bottles, "The Show Must Go On" and "Let Me Entertain You."  Another thing I love about O.P.I. their clever names they come up with.  The lady giving me my manicure and pedicure wanted to buy this polish from me.  I held out, I couldn't give this nail polish up!  It was like it was made for me.  I have come to the conclusion that it is "like Dorthy shoes on my fingertips."  It's basically like instant happiness every time I look down and see my hands and feet.  It really is the small things in life that give you  joy.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Orange You Glad You Are A Cowboy?


Here is one of my all time favorite sites from homecoming.  I love that every homecoming week the library fountain turns orange.  How spectacular does that look?  It is just a sight to see, perfect for pictures and just all around happy.

Homecoming has come and gone for another year.  It is just sad that we (as in students) start planning a year in advance for the next one.  Soo much time and effort is put into homecoming.  Don't get me wrong, I did not put a lot of effort into this years house decoration but I feel like I have done my part, no matter what anyone else has to say about it. Don't mind my rant--For crying out loud I am graduating in less than 60 days, can you see why I have zero motivation to do anything that involves my sorority?  I have way more important things going on, like trying to find a job.  Anyways,  I hold homecoming near and dear to my little heart.  I am just ready for the campus to go back to normal and town to slow down.  The only thing that upset me a little bit about this past week, Starbucks was a zoo!  It took me way too long to get my daily caffeine fix, just saying.

 

I did happen to have the perfect opportunity for the most wonderful picture.  If you know me at all, you know that I am an extreme girlie girl.  The AGR/Theta house dec was just that, on one side of it anyways.  They had Mrs. Potato head, lots of flowers, OPI nail polish and lipstick!  How perfect is that?  It was also nice to see all of my old friends that now have big kid jobs come back to their "home."  I just realized that no matter where I end up going for my job or what I do, Oklahoma State will always be my "home."


Step 1) Dip fried okra into ranch!


Step 2) Chew, Chew, Chew, waiting on the verdict.
Step 3) Thumbs up! Excellent side choice

Ohh!  If you follow me on twitter (Lindseyll for those of you who don't) you noticed my twit pic from Saturday.  I made friends with a few Nebraska fans at Bad Brad's BBQ here is town.  The original is in my hometown so I am a little obsessed/crazy about this place.  It was an hour fifteen min wait...needless to say I had time to make friends.  After this chit-chat about the game, we got to talking about food and giving them my expert advice.  They told me they have never had fried okra in their life.  I almost fell over into my grave at that moment.  I told them they had to try their fried okra and get some ranch dressing to dip it in, that makes all of the difference, believe me!  So after they all got their food I went over to their table and wanted to see if they did, in fact, get okra with ranch dressing.  Guess what?  Every single one of them did!  It was priceless!  They were amazing with the taste!  I asked them if I could take a picture for my blog and they all started laughing hysterically, we made a scene...I am okay with it, though.

Breaking news--It is my birthday week!  So get out your stamps and Hallmark cards!  I'll be waiting by my mailbox!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Maroon 5 In Tulsa

Today is off to a wonderful start.  It feels like such a great fall day although I think it is going to feel like summer by the end of it.  Today is Wednesday but it feels so much like a Monday...it is just going by so slow.

Last night was wonderful!  One Republic was amazing, I was not that excited about them at first but they were really entertaining.  Maroon 5 was just amazing, words can not even describe how wonderful they were.  They played a lot of old stuff and that made me so happy.  They played the song "She Will Be Loved."  I can officially die happy now, maybe that's a little overdramatic, but really.  The only setback, I forgot my camera, thank you IPhone!

 

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Wise Words

Have you ever reached a point in your life when you felt like you could not take anymore and you just wanted to run, run far away?  I am at that point right now and it sucks. Everyone keeps telling me not to worry about it because God has a plan.  I know that, I never even questioned that.  I just want to know what path I need to take, there are so many options presenting themselves right now.  It really is overwhelming.  So, that is why I have been away for the past couple of days.  I have had a lot to deal with...

"Trust in the Lord and do good; so you will live in the land, and enjoy security. Take delight in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him." (Psalm 37:3-5)  I am trying to remember this passage every time I get stressed out about my life and where the future is going to take me.  I have a feeling others are experiencing the same thing right now, so there you go!


In other news, I now have Beauty and the Beast and the complete season 1 of Glee on DVD.  My life just got a little bit better.  All I need is some Ben and Jerry's Phish food, Pink Sweatpants, an oversized frat tee and I will be in heaven.  I am actually thinking that is how I am going to spend fall break or, at least, a portion of it will be going down that way.  Breaking news--Let's talk about how Oklahoma had an earthquake today....I never thought I would get to say I experienced one!  However, now I can state that as a fact, mark that off of the to-do list.






Like usual, I was at my second home (Starbucks) working on homework...I just had to share this.  Look at it melting down my cup.  I thought it made for a wonderful photo opportunity.

Friday, October 8, 2010

Black Bottom Heartache Cupcake

I decided to try a new cupcake recipe and I came across this one book that I picked up a while back ago.  Please note that I am not an avid lover of chocolate.  My sister must have stolen that all away from me because that girl LOVES her chocolate.  However, I do welcome any and all dark Godiva chocolate with a raspberry filling, I hold a special spot in my heart for that.  With that said, this cupcake is pure chocolate!  If you like, love, adore, and or worship chocolate, this is for you!  You need to go buy the ingredients now and make it ASAP.  That is a direct order.
Black Bottom Heartache

Ingredients: 

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar

5 tablespoons natural unsweetened coco powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup water

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 tablespoon white or cider vinegar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat over to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.  Place 12 paper liners in cupcake trays.

2. Whisk together flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt.

3. In separate bowl mix water, oil, vinegar and vanilla.

4. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and stir in the wet ingredients.  Mix until smooth.

5. Pour batter into paper liners.  Fill three-quarters of the way to the top.

6. Spoon a few tablespoons of the filling into the center of each cake.  The cupcakes will now be at the top of the paper.

7. Bake for 25 minutes.

8. Coll for 5 minutes and then place on a baking rack.

Filling

Ingredients:

8 ounces cream cheese

1/3 granulated sugar

1 egg

2 ounces bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped

Directions:

1. Cream sugar, cream cheese, and egg with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.

2. Fold in the chopped chocolate with a rubber spatula.

 

Everyone that tried this cupcake said that this was the best one they have ever had.  Kristin has sampled all of my cupcakes and she wants this one for her birthday, that is how good it is.  I took a plate to Starbucks for them to enjoy.  I like sharing my baked  goods with others, it gives me joy seeing their face light up.  There is just something about home-made goodies that you get...almost a warm fuzzy feeling.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

National 4-H Youth Science Day Experiment

Yesterday was National 4-H youth science day experiment.  I went to help out for a little while in between my classes.  It was so much fun!  The kids were so excited about it.  They were having a blast!  These were the two kids that I helped, they are brother and sister and 13 months apart.  The little girl is older.  It is almost like me and John Paul. Almost like twins...but not really.  I think they had a good time and learned a lot!

 

 


After the science experiment, I decided to enjoy the day.  I went for a manicure and a pedicure.  That was relaxing as always, a good personal investment.  Then I picked up Kristin from class and we spent the rest of the day together.  It is so nice to have a best friend that you can hang out with all the time.  It is never dull with us either, it is always fun and exciting.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Taylor Swift In OKC

I am pretty sure that as much as I do not want to admit it...Taylor Swift has a window into my soul. It is like she stole my diary or something. Her songs can pretty much sum up my life and it somewhat scary sometimes. I am sure every other girl in the world thinks the same thing but whatever, it's alright. Not many girls can say that they got to be front row at her concert but I can! My roommate and I went to see her in OKC last spring and it was awesome! We might have been the oldest girls here, but you know what I am perfectly okay with that. I do not mind one bit!


Tonight while having coffee with Kristin, she asked me if I have heard the new song "Speak Now". She told me that it sounds just like me. I kind of laughed it off because I was not sure what it was about because I have not heard it. So, as soon as I got home I downloaded it and to my surprise, it does sound just like me. Sometimes I feel like my life would make a hilarious romantic comedy with everything that has happened. Let's just hope it has a happy ending, I guess we will wait and see.

I do not really like Tuesdays at all this semester. This day feels like it has gone on forever! I think it is past my bedtime , maybe that is the other reason. I am such a grandma, I like to get a full nights rest. I do not function without sleep, I get a little cranky. I made a decision that I am going to try a new recipe every week. Tomorrow I am going to make dinner and a new cupcake for some friends. They will be the judges to see if the cupcake is a hit or miss. I'll post the review, recipe, and pictures tomorrow!

Monday, October 4, 2010

A Real Treat

This morning when I woke up it was 40 degrees!  Talk about sheer bliss, except for the fact that feels more like winter than it does fall--but I was okay with that.  Today I got to wear a cardigan, again!  An hour before my test off I went to Starbucks for morning coffee and a quick study session.  Who sat down beside me?  That's right, Coach Ford.  May I point out that this is not our first-morning coffee exchange.  We are pretty much besties...well okay, not really.  But I can dream, right?  My test went well, I am so glad it is out-of-the-way. Now it's just time to breathe...

It is initiation week in adeepi land.  It is a busy time, I took the high road and ordered my g littles presents.  I probably should have made them, but I really did not have the extra time to do that.  I hope the like them, I am sure they will!  Who does not like presents?  I know I sure do (a cough 24 more days until my birthday) excuse me, I have had a cold.



In other news, it's also National 4-H Week!  Not that I am an active member of 4-H anymore, but it hold 10 years of fond memories.  I am an avid supporter, I guess you could say.  Cheesy as that may sound...it's the truth.  Those are some pictures from my Sr. year in high school.  Everyone meet Sid the Sloth, who was really a show steer.  He might have been my best friend at that time in my life.  He loved cake (cattle cake), I kept some in my pockets at all time to give him. He just loved getting treats.  I don't think I have ever been more heartbroken at that moment when I put him on the truck.  You would have thought one of my family members passed away or something, I was a hot mess.  There is just something that you gain from growing up in the 4-H program.  I am happy I got to experience it.

Friday, October 1, 2010

Little known fact

 This weekend everyone is going home or on a little getaway.  I have a test on Monday, so I am not moving much.  I managed to make some note cards today, so I am making steps in the right direction.  This weather is awfully pretty, though, I want to play.  Maybe tomorrow I will go to the zoo or something like that.

Ps, by the way, It's now October my Birthday Month! Yippee!  I am kicking things off right with a dinner date with one of my Glittles tonight.  I can not wait to start receiving cards in the mail from family and friends.  I should work for hallmark or something....I LOVE birthday cards. I keep my cards...I don't know why, but I have all my cards either on a board in my room or a shoe box. There is a little-known fact for you. I like cards, the end.



Wednesday, September 29, 2010

National Coffee Day

Today is National Coffee Day!  Not that I drink black coffee...or any coffee at that matter.  I am more of an espresso girl myself.  My drink of choice, a caramel macchiato; freshly steamed milk with vanilla-flavored syrup, marked with espresso and finished with caramel sauce. Pretty much heaven in a cup if you ask me.


Other than that, today is not that exciting.  I am sick and that is not much fun at all.  It happens every year about this time.  The season change always gets me.  My sinuses can not handle it for some reason.  I stocked up on medicine and hot tea yesterday so I should be good in no time at all.  I am patiently waiting...With that said, I have been in my pajamas all day long.  I have not accomplished a whole lot but just enough to make me feel a little productive. I am now contemplating watching last night's Glee episode again on Hulu.  That episode was the best ever, I am obsessed with Britney, she did such a great job being B Spears.

Tomorrow is the OSU vs. Texas A&M football game.  Teachers think they are having class but in all actuality, they are not.  Parking will be a mess, tailgating will be in full swing, and students will not be going to class.  It's almost like a holiday!

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Magrarita, Hold the Salt Cupcakes

Margarita, Hold the Salt Cupcakes

Ingredients:

1/4 cup lime juice

1 1/2 teaspoons lime zest (1 lime)

1 cup soy milk (plain or vanilla)

1/4 cup vegetable oil

2 teaspoons tequila

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup sugar

1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

2 tablespoons potato starch

1/2 teaspoon finely ground salt, either sea or iodized

1 pint fresh raspberries

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.  Place 12 paper liners into cupcake trays.

2. In a large bowl, mix together lime juice, lime zest, soy milk, oil, tequila, vanilla, potato starch and sugar.

3. In a bowl, measure flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.  Whisk or sift together to ensure they are thoroughly combined.

4. Add dry ingredients to lime mixture and stir until just combined.

5. Gently fold fresh raspberries into the batter with a rubber spatula.


6.  Pour into paper liners.  Fill three-quarters of the way to the top.

7. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until a toothpick placed in the center of a cupcake come out clean.

8. Let cool for 5 minutes and then place on baking racks.

Yield:12 Cupcakes

Tequila Lime Frosting

Ingredients:

1/4 cup salted butter, room temperature

1 tablespoon soy milk

3 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon tequila

2 cups, plus more if needed, of powdered sugar

Directions:

1. Beat together butter, milk, lime juice, tequila, and 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

2. If the frosting is too thin, wait for 5 minutes.   It will thicken.

3. Spread the frosting on cupcakes.


These are some of the best cupcakes that I have ever made.  I am also a fan of raspberries.  If you do not like them, you should substitute your favorite fruit or maybe use half of the amount.  I am really pleased with the results.

Tonight is the Britney Spears Glee!  I can hardly contain my excitement.  B Spears is one of my favorites of all time and I am not ashamed to admit it!  I don't really want to go to class, I hate that feeling.  I know I need to go, so I will.  However, it is such a pretty day I would like to be out enjoying it.