First Day Of Spring Lunch

Dirt cup
Via She is Dallas

It is the first day of spring! It is hard to see any signs of spring through the brutal cold and piles of snow. That is why I am making a special lunch for Bean that is full of signs of spring. I am hoping it will add a little sunshine to his day!

Wormy apple
Via Pinterest

Flower-shaped sandwich
Via Kelley Hospitality

Farmhouse Finds: Kitchen

My mother-in-law probably spends about 15 hours a day in the kitchen.  No matter what time of day it is, delicious smells are luring family and friends to sit down at the kitchen table for an apple turnover and some conversation.  There is something very comforting about the slap of the screen door, the sound of a boiling pot on the stove and the dog curled up at your feet.  It feels like home.  Here are a few things to bring a little "modern country"  to your kitchen.

These pretty bowls remind me of china passed down  in families

This tray is perfect for when your eggs don't come in  a carton

I swear that a honey dipper makes the honey taste even better

A kitchen compost pail means less trips to the compost pile

Ceramic fruit baskets are great for fresh-picked fruit

An Easy Romantic Dinner

Last night my husband asked me if I was making a special dinner for Valentine's day.  The answer is yes.  I am planning on making a romantic dinner for two tomorrow night.  I would love to say I am making something super complicated (like beef wellington) but I would be lying.  The kids have been wearing me out lately and by the time I was done cooking, I would be too crabby to enjoy it.  I am keeping the food simple, lighting a few candles, creating a romantic playlist and buying a bottle of champagne.  Here is my super simple menu.  If even this seems like too much work for you, skip it and just buy the champagne.  You won't even miss the food after a few drinks!

The Menu
Clinton Kelly's Beef Stroganoff 
Garlic bread bought at the bakery and thrown in the oven
Roasted red potatoes and broccoli
-Heat oven to 400.  Toss 1/2 lb of broccoli and 1 lb of red potatoes (cut in half) with 2 tbs. of olive oil and salt and pepper.  Roast for 18-20 minutes.
Ice cream pie
-Buy a cookie crumb pie shell and fill it with your favorite ice cream.  I am using a coffee flavor.  Drizzle hot fudge or caramel over the top.