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Christmas Cut- Outs aka Sugar Cookies
 Snow is falling and there is a 2-hour delay. A day when everyone waits for the final call, will there be school or won't there. Is the weather man correct or does our area miss the storm? The kiddos are waiting to find out if playing outside is in their future or heading to school to learn. The teachers and staff are waiting to see if they are filling the brains of their amazing students or tackling the very long lists of things that need to be done before next Friday. There is the list of things to do at school with and for the kids. The list of things to get ready for when the break is over so they can enjoy their time off. Last and most important, the lists at home to prepare for time with their own family, kids, and friends. So, TODAY is the day, .IF and only IF, the day is called SNOW DAY! I have my list ready & used my 2-hour delay to cross a couple things off the list. I usually make cinnamon rolls on a snow day but today, whether it is or isn't - instead of making those, I'm making sugar cookie dough. Tomorrow is the annual Christmas baking day with my daughter and I look forward to it. I'm praying the storm doesn't keep my girl away. If it does, the cookie dough will wait. Today is the last official blog of the series but I think a few more recipes are coming your way next week. I've enjoyed sharing some of my favorites and trying new ones. My friends and family have truly enjoyed it, one bite at a time. Today's photo is of Heidi pulling our cousin in the sled. So many photos, memories, and love - I only shared a miniscule of the with you. I hope you enjoy! Today's YouTube video will appear here after recorded.What is your favorite sugar cookie (cut-out) recipe?
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12/15/2022 0 Comments Day 11: 12 Days of #HopeforHeidiAllen
Isn't this picture of my mom the best!? I know it is. Her smile is the same one Heidi wore every day too. The sweatshirt she is wearing is one I had made the first Christmas without Heidi. It says, "Always in our hearts". The same is true this year.... Heidi is forever in our hearts and NEVER forgotten. We won't stop sharing her memory, face, story, and hope with all of you and anyone listening.  There is one day left in this series, on one level I'm exhausted and on the other, I am inspired more than any the past few Christmases. I went through old photo albums and found this gem. It's my mom, with Heidi behind the A-frame and me, behind the barn. These Fischer Price toys were our favorites as kids from the moment we opened them on this Christmas morning. Fast forward to my daughter as a young child, she played with these same toys. They are stored away for when her future children are old enough to play with them. Tradition, and toys, passed down from generation to generation. I'm grateful to be in a family that still values tradition,  When we are young we don't open gifts like multiple Fischer Price thinking, "these are great, I can't wait to pass them on to my grandchildren." BUT thankfully, my parents and family raised us to appreciate and care for what we were given and had. It is because of this care that these toys have had the love of many children over the years and thanks to our upbringing, there are still generations of hands and love before them. This blog has returned a purpose to write and each time I sit down to start, I think of my mom. She enjoyed reading the blogs and commenting. She left me a legacy of her love, thoughts, and more through leaving comments. What legacies do you have available to remember those who went before you? What legacies are you leaving for those when you pass away? Have you even thought about this? If not, there is no better time than now. Rolled Molasses Drops |
IngredientsFull Recipe 1 cup shortening 1 cup brown sugar 1 egg 1 cup molasses 5 cups flour 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 3 tsp. cinnamon 3 tsp. ginger Half Recipe 1/2 cup shortening 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 egg 1/2 cup molasses 2 1/2 cups flour 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1 1/2 tsp. ginger | Directions1) Cream shortening and sugar together 2) Add egg and molasses 3) Add dry ingredients. 4) Chill for 1 hour 5) Roll into small balls then roll in flour and white sugar Preheat oven to 350 degrees Bake for 8 - 10 minutes on greased cookie sheet  |
Here is the YouTube video of me making this recipe
I noticed there are a lot of recipes with molasses
for the holidays...anyone else notice this too?
12/14/2022 0 Comments
Day 10: 12 Days of #HopeforHeidiAllen
 |  Today's recipe is a |
This Christmas season I put up a tree and decorated it with a smile on my face and joy in my heart. I went to the attic looking for the artificial tree to realize, we had gotten rid of the one we had. There was a time I would have thought, it's not meant to be, and I would have said, "We'll put it up next year." but thanks to this blog/cooking series, it kept me focused on the why - HOPE!
It's with hope that we:
Survive
Thrive
Keep putting our feet on the floor
Are able to smile
Have faith & the ability to push through the tough times
Can choose to focus on the rainbow instead of the rain and so much more!
It's with hope that we:
Survive
Thrive
Keep putting our feet on the floor
Are able to smile
Have faith & the ability to push through the tough times
Can choose to focus on the rainbow instead of the rain and so much more!
This photo of Heidi skating floods my heart and mind with so many memories. As kids, Heidi and I, and the cousins, spent hours clearing off the ice. The adults may helped when we were peanuts but if we wanted to skate (and we did) then we couldn't wait for the adults to finish chores, get home from work, or plowing.
Until writing this blog, I never viewed the clearing as work ~ it was fun and necessary to get to putting on our skates. Have you ever watched the movie, Ice Princess? The main character enjoys skating so much, she is willing to train (or try) for professional competitions on the bumpy-iced country pond. Each time I see this scene, I remember all the time spent with Heidi and my cousins. These were simpler times.
It was us, the snow, the ice, and hours of unlimited fun and laughter. There was a spot in the pasture, just inside the fence, close to my grandparents house. The water wasn't more than 4 inches deep, it even that deep - so we could skate without adult supervision. Well, not outside anyway. Our kitchen, Gram's kitchen and living room, not to mention the neighbors view meant we were NEVER unattended. It was comforting.
Until writing this blog, I never viewed the clearing as work ~ it was fun and necessary to get to putting on our skates. Have you ever watched the movie, Ice Princess? The main character enjoys skating so much, she is willing to train (or try) for professional competitions on the bumpy-iced country pond. Each time I see this scene, I remember all the time spent with Heidi and my cousins. These were simpler times.
It was us, the snow, the ice, and hours of unlimited fun and laughter. There was a spot in the pasture, just inside the fence, close to my grandparents house. The water wasn't more than 4 inches deep, it even that deep - so we could skate without adult supervision. Well, not outside anyway. Our kitchen, Gram's kitchen and living room, not to mention the neighbors view meant we were NEVER unattended. It was comforting.
Another location to skate was at the bottom the hill just beyond this first spot. Although Gram couldn't see us here, the others still could. We grew up in a town where neighbors looked out for each other, and their kids, as if they were their own. I miss those days.
One last spot was across the road and a little riskier to skate on because it was a part of the creek. It wasn't the actual creek, just the overflow that froze. It was deeper and we had strict instructions of how far and where we could skate due to the depth of the water and the current very near to where we skated. This skating adventure warranted adult supervision, "just in case".
If you weren't blessed enough to grow up with snow, backyard skating rinks, and family (blood relations and those you chose, or chose you, aka neighbors) then trust me when I let you know these were beautiful times and still are. I am the first to admit, I wasn't the mom outside with her daughter when it was frigid. My hubby cherished this time. I took her ice skating at the rink because the places I skated as a child growing up became a roadway when she was learning to walk.
A tradition I kept was being ready inside with hot chocolate, warm cookies from the oven, and a warmed blanket fresh out of the dryer to snuggle into when she got inside. Life is short, make the memories. Memories of skating and playing outdoors with my sister are a part of who I am and I'm thankful to share them, and her, with you, my readers. Where is YOUR favorite place to skate?
One last spot was across the road and a little riskier to skate on because it was a part of the creek. It wasn't the actual creek, just the overflow that froze. It was deeper and we had strict instructions of how far and where we could skate due to the depth of the water and the current very near to where we skated. This skating adventure warranted adult supervision, "just in case".
If you weren't blessed enough to grow up with snow, backyard skating rinks, and family (blood relations and those you chose, or chose you, aka neighbors) then trust me when I let you know these were beautiful times and still are. I am the first to admit, I wasn't the mom outside with her daughter when it was frigid. My hubby cherished this time. I took her ice skating at the rink because the places I skated as a child growing up became a roadway when she was learning to walk.
A tradition I kept was being ready inside with hot chocolate, warm cookies from the oven, and a warmed blanket fresh out of the dryer to snuggle into when she got inside. Life is short, make the memories. Memories of skating and playing outdoors with my sister are a part of who I am and I'm thankful to share them, and her, with you, my readers. Where is YOUR favorite place to skate?
Soft Gingerbread
Page 63 in the Heidi Allen Cookbook
Ingredients2 1/2 cups Flour 1 cup Molasses 1/2 cup Sugar 1/2 cup Shortening 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. cloves 1/2 tsp. ginger 1 tsp. baking soda 1 cup boiling water 2 eggs, well beaten Epic AlternativesOption 1: Simply mix Epicure's Gingerbread package as directed, let it set for 20 minutes, bake and serve. It's that easy! Order yours here Option 2: Swap out the cinnamon, ginger and cloves for Epicure's Gingerbread Spice. | Directions1) Dissolve baking soda in boiling water and set aside 2) Beat sugar and shortening then add: -molasses -water (from step #1) 3) Add flour and spices gradually, mixing as you go. 4) Add eggs last. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. Serve hot with whipped cream.  |
Here is today's YouTube recording of making the recipe
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12/13/2022 0 Comments
Day 9: 12 Days of #HopeforHeidiAllen
 Today's memory is another one focusing on family, fellowship, and good food. Each year the entire family went to my Aunt Kay and Uncle Buss' for Christmas dinner with our extended family: grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, great-aunts and uncles, second and third cousins, and significant others. It was so much fun! The ladies would congregate in the kitchen, around the very table you see in this first photo. The laughter coming from the kitchen filled the house and I looked forward to the day I'd be sitting in the kitchen alongside them. |  Today's recipe is a Chocolate Sheet cake and this is one reason I like our Epicure Sheet pans so much - wait until you see how easy it is to make, and clean up!  The men enjoyed whatever sport was on the television. Us kids, well, we were everywhere. The boys typically hung with the men and the girls, we kept busy. |
My aunt and uncle's home was a two bedroom with a full basement. I tried to decide my favorite place to play but can't.
The bedrooms were great because my cousin Mark's childhood bedroom was "so cool". I remember we jumped on the bed a little too much one year and broke it, lol. Oh goodness, the adults just laughed and fixed the bed. It was a joy-filled time and no one was upset.
When we were old enough, we were allowed to play in the basement. My Uncle Buss had bolts of upholstery from his business and work tables. In today's verbage, some would say he had a "man cave" down there on the other half of the room. We'd play hide-n-seek downstairs and Heidi was so little, she'd hide between the bolts and we never found her.
The years with snow on the ground, we arrived in our best Christmas outfit with a bag filled with our "outdoor clothes" and after we ate, we'd play outside until our snow pants soaked through or our lips were blue. The boys would play football in the snow some years, they didn't like to let us play. No matter what we were doing, we were all together and making memories.
We didn't have the luxury of a telephone/camera/computer in our purse or back pocket so the photos aren't in surplus yet the memories in my brain overflow.
What memories of your childhood holidays do you have? When you compare Christmas of today to yester-year, what makes you smile and why?
The bedrooms were great because my cousin Mark's childhood bedroom was "so cool". I remember we jumped on the bed a little too much one year and broke it, lol. Oh goodness, the adults just laughed and fixed the bed. It was a joy-filled time and no one was upset.
When we were old enough, we were allowed to play in the basement. My Uncle Buss had bolts of upholstery from his business and work tables. In today's verbage, some would say he had a "man cave" down there on the other half of the room. We'd play hide-n-seek downstairs and Heidi was so little, she'd hide between the bolts and we never found her.
The years with snow on the ground, we arrived in our best Christmas outfit with a bag filled with our "outdoor clothes" and after we ate, we'd play outside until our snow pants soaked through or our lips were blue. The boys would play football in the snow some years, they didn't like to let us play. No matter what we were doing, we were all together and making memories.
We didn't have the luxury of a telephone/camera/computer in our purse or back pocket so the photos aren't in surplus yet the memories in my brain overflow.
What memories of your childhood holidays do you have? When you compare Christmas of today to yester-year, what makes you smile and why?
Chocolate Sheet Cake
Page 62 in Heidi Allen Cookbook
Submitted by Marion Patchen, Watertown New York
Submitted by Marion Patchen, Watertown New York
Ingredients2 cups sugar 2 cups flour 1 stick margarine/butter 4 tbsp cocoa 1/2 cup oil 1 cup water 1/2 cup buttermilk 2 eggs, beaten 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. vanilla (topping) | Directions
Bake at 375 degrees at 425 degrees for 20 minutes in an 15 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1 inch sheet pan I recommend the Epicure Sheet Pan. |
Chocolate Sheet Cake Topping
Ingredients1 stick margarine/butter 4 tbsp. cocoa 1/2 cup milk 1 box confectioners sugar 1/2 tsp. vanilla nuts (optional) | Directions
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Here is my YouTube video to share this recipe being made
What is your favorite sheet cake recipe?
12/12/2022 0 Comments
Day 8: 12 days of #HopeforHeidiAllen
 Me and my Gram at my wedding, August 21, 1993. |  Today's recipe is a Molasses Crumb Cake on page 55 in the Heidi Allen Cookbook, submitted by Carol A. Fabian. My Gram's ability to see the good in the world, regardless of what happened combined with the words of wisdom you shared with me while growing were major influences in shaping me into the woman I grew into. |
When deciding what photos or memory to share today, my first thought was "So goes Monday, so goes the week." And as quick as I thought it, I knew today had to be something involving my Gramma Searles. This quote is one she shared with us every Sunday when we'd leave after the weekly Sunday supper.
If I complained on a Monday, she'd remind me to make the most off it because it was setting the tone for my week. This is one of many legacies this strong woman left with me, and our entire family. She led by example and in love, 24/7/365.
I mentioned my Gram's "words of wisdom" earlier. Some of these were Irish Proverbs, Old Wives Tales, and last and most importantly...she quoted Scripture verses to me and I never knew it. Well, at least not until after 2004 when I started reading the Bible.
My Gram new how to reach me and knew what would push me further from having a relationship with God. I accepted and enjoyed the Irish Proverbs and Old Wives Tales and looked forward to a hearing new ones, and some of them repeated often I was, and still am, a slow study at times.
The reason I share this is because my Gram was the next most important person to me when I grew up, outside of my parents. She was this important to our entire family, my sister included. While Heidi was completing her second year at Onondaga Community College,
Heidi moved in with my Aunt Nancy and Gramma to help care for Gramma while also going to school full-time and working. Heidi chose this because Gram and Nancy gave 110% to our family all the time and the least any of us could do was help when she accepted it. She was a stubborn Irish woman, I pray to be half the woman she was. She left so many legacies and one of those is my enjoyment to be in the kitchen. Thank you for joining me in the kitchen this month.
If I complained on a Monday, she'd remind me to make the most off it because it was setting the tone for my week. This is one of many legacies this strong woman left with me, and our entire family. She led by example and in love, 24/7/365.
I mentioned my Gram's "words of wisdom" earlier. Some of these were Irish Proverbs, Old Wives Tales, and last and most importantly...she quoted Scripture verses to me and I never knew it. Well, at least not until after 2004 when I started reading the Bible.
My Gram new how to reach me and knew what would push me further from having a relationship with God. I accepted and enjoyed the Irish Proverbs and Old Wives Tales and looked forward to a hearing new ones, and some of them repeated often I was, and still am, a slow study at times.
The reason I share this is because my Gram was the next most important person to me when I grew up, outside of my parents. She was this important to our entire family, my sister included. While Heidi was completing her second year at Onondaga Community College,
Heidi moved in with my Aunt Nancy and Gramma to help care for Gramma while also going to school full-time and working. Heidi chose this because Gram and Nancy gave 110% to our family all the time and the least any of us could do was help when she accepted it. She was a stubborn Irish woman, I pray to be half the woman she was. She left so many legacies and one of those is my enjoyment to be in the kitchen. Thank you for joining me in the kitchen this month.
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Ingredients1/2 cup dark molasses 1/2 cup Karo Syrup 2 1/4 cup boiling water 1 tsp. baking soda 4 cups flour 3/4 cup shortening 1/2 tsp salt 1 lb. light brown sugar Preheat oven to 350 degrees | Directions
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Video making this recipe on my YouTube channel
Do you have a molasses recipe you want to share?
 How are you doing this morning? Do I hear TGIF echoing from those pausing to read today's blog? It always amazes me at how time can sometimes move so slow, like 30 seconds of running when you first start feels like eternity. But after a few months, you are running more than walking. |  |
When I think about time, this is where my mind travels. I trained for the Hospice 5K many moons ago and this was the very moment I realized how long 30 seconds was. I used the Couch to 5K process, way before it was an app. It was fun, invigorating, and a challenge but I'm happy to say I completed the 5K at a run, slow, but a run. I achieved a goal and learned something about myself, running is not fun for me. LOL Even though I didn't LOVE it, I felt and slept better than I had in years. Maybe I should sign up for a Spring 5K just to train? Hmm....
Anyway, time is precious and the most valuable commodity any of has. You can have all the money in the world but if you don't have time to enjoy it with your family and friends, is it really worth it?
Today's photos are a then and then, lol. My two favorite K's - both with a sled Grandpa Ken in the sleigh and another from an afternoon with family at our Aunt Judy and Uncle Don's home. Fun memories! We weren't inside playing video games, of course most hadn't been created yet, but we wouldn't have been allowed to sit inside anyway. LOL I'm grateful for this.
Anyway, time is precious and the most valuable commodity any of has. You can have all the money in the world but if you don't have time to enjoy it with your family and friends, is it really worth it?
Today's photos are a then and then, lol. My two favorite K's - both with a sled Grandpa Ken in the sleigh and another from an afternoon with family at our Aunt Judy and Uncle Don's home. Fun memories! We weren't inside playing video games, of course most hadn't been created yet, but we wouldn't have been allowed to sit inside anyway. LOL I'm grateful for this.
 I found this gem of my Grandpa Ken out in the snow in this sleigh. I'm hoping some of my family will remember the horse's name and even the story that goes with this photo. It brought me a smile. First, look at all the snow! We didn't get a "snow watch" or "warning" because we were getting 4 - 8 inches of snow, people read the Farmer's Almanac or watched the news at 6 p.m. Simpler times....  One thing we had in common, we enjoyed being outside and being active. The way we did it was different but outside was our jam. Fresh air is so good for the soul and our health, not to mention the time of laughing, teasing, and bonding in the hours. I'll admit, as a mom I didn't do my daughter justice in this department BUT my husband excelled. He spent as many minutes out in the snow with her as he could. I'd go out and take pictures, take a trip or two down the hill and then head back in to make hot cocoa and cookies so to help them warm up when they were done. | This more recent photo, probably early 80's judging my Heidi's size and possible age. If you look in the background you can see a couple of the sleds (snowmobiles) and more peeps. My Uncle Don and Aunt Judy lived nearby, with many acres of land and trails in the woods. After a good "sledding snow", the family spent the next Saturday at their house. I was NOT a big snowmobile fan but I'd truck myself and my sled up and down the hill many times. I didn't mind getting pulled behind, as long as the driver didn't go too fast. I'm still the one reading a book on the bench while my family waits in line for the rides at the amusement park. I'm wimpy. Heidi on the other hand, LOVED to drive, ride, and pull me (way to fast LOL) - the faster the better. Her energy and fearlessness in such a tiny little girl always fascinated me. For every ounce of fear and hesitation I felt, she was on the opposite end of the spectrum ten-fold. She encouraged and pushed me when we were little, teased as we got older, and accepted as teens because there was no changing who we each were. She'd spend a Saturday off with Brett riding the jet skis - always inviting me, knowing I wouldn't go. I'd tell her, "Can I read a book at the dock?" She'd laugh, "You can do that at home." So I stayed home.  |
Until writing this blog I didn't make the connection that the "moms" weren't outside that long with us. I remember begging for her to stay "just one more" trip. Duh, I never thought that someone was inside making the cocoa and cookies for us! A revelation at 51 years of age. LOL Subconsciously my mind paid attention because I was the mom in the kitchen.
The only thing missing is my mom and Heidi. My mom was in my aunt's kitchen with her mom, aunts, sisters, and cousins. I picture them laughing, drinking some Port Wine or Boxed Riunite Wine with the sound of laughter and the smell of sweets and cigarette smoke filling the house. I may not have my blood sister or mom anymore BUT I have the best friends in the entire world. They share their time, their kiddos, and are HUGE parts of my adult memories. I'm so grateful for them.
No one can replace your missing loved ones yet God places others in our lives to help us enjoy our days...time is precious and life is short!
Make the most of it and make new memories everyday with no regrets in the morning.
The only thing missing is my mom and Heidi. My mom was in my aunt's kitchen with her mom, aunts, sisters, and cousins. I picture them laughing, drinking some Port Wine or Boxed Riunite Wine with the sound of laughter and the smell of sweets and cigarette smoke filling the house. I may not have my blood sister or mom anymore BUT I have the best friends in the entire world. They share their time, their kiddos, and are HUGE parts of my adult memories. I'm so grateful for them.
No one can replace your missing loved ones yet God places others in our lives to help us enjoy our days...time is precious and life is short!
Make the most of it and make new memories everyday with no regrets in the morning.
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Overnight Coffee Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Bowl 1 (coconut mixture)
1 cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup coconut flakes
1 tsp. cinnamon
½ cup chopped pecans
Bowl 2
2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
2 – 4 oz packages vanilla instant pudding
Bowl 3 (Mixer bowl)
1 cup water
¾ cup corn oil
1 tsp. vanilla extract
4 eggs
Directions
Chill over night - preheat oven to 325 degrees and bake for 40 - 60 minutes or until coffee cake tests done. Serves 15
Not Epicurizing this one - enjoy!
Bowl 1 (coconut mixture)
1 cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup coconut flakes
1 tsp. cinnamon
½ cup chopped pecans
Bowl 2
2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
2 – 4 oz packages vanilla instant pudding
Bowl 3 (Mixer bowl)
1 cup water
¾ cup corn oil
1 tsp. vanilla extract
4 eggs
Directions
- Combine ingredients for Bowl 1, Bowl 2, and Bowl 3 as listed above
- Bowl #1 and Bowl #2 – mix within their individual bowls
- Beat ingredients in bowl #3 at medium speed for 30 seconds on low and then for another 2 minutes (until creamy) on medium
- Add Bowl #2 mixture to #3 in the mixer bowl - beat 2 minutes, until creamy
- Layer 1/2 batter (bowl #3) in bottom of a greased 9 x 13 pan
- Layer 1/2 mix from bowl #1
- Add remaining batter
- Top with remaining 1/2 of coconut mixture (bowl #1)
- Cover
Chill over night - preheat oven to 325 degrees and bake for 40 - 60 minutes or until coffee cake tests done. Serves 15
Not Epicurizing this one - enjoy!
What memories of growing up compared to today can you share?
Today's recipe: Chocolate Mint Cookies
 |  6 days into this adventure and I'm praying the YouTube lives are going better. If you are watching live, I have the comments on so you can say "Hi". My comfort level and jam is in my Facebook group, Keeping it Real Cooking with Lisa. It isn't as comfortable as it is in my YouTube channel YET! |
In school, we teach and try to model the "Power of YET". After my first YouTube live I told hubby, "I'm not as comfortable on YouTube and I am in my FB group." and felt like I let you, my readers & viewers down then my quiet husband in wisdom reminded me, "You aren't there YET!" I love this guy, don't tell him I said that.
So hopefully as you are reading this, this week's lives have a flow to them and more of you are able to jump on live. Regardless of when you watch, thank you.
May you laugh at my YouTube learning curves, pray for Heidi's return, and learn the importance to cherishing your family as you make memories. Tomorrow is not a guarantee, don't let your eyes ever close with a regret. Life is short, enjoy it!
So hopefully as you are reading this, this week's lives have a flow to them and more of you are able to jump on live. Regardless of when you watch, thank you.
May you laugh at my YouTube learning curves, pray for Heidi's return, and learn the importance to cherishing your family as you make memories. Tomorrow is not a guarantee, don't let your eyes ever close with a regret. Life is short, enjoy it!
Chocolate Mint | Chocolate Mint |
Today's flashback takes us way back and is still one of my favorites. Yes it is because we are little and cute with the traditional Christmas backdrop.
We are old enough to have a little personality show in photos. When I look at this one, my sister's smile stands out. This smile and ability to make others smile was a characteristic her friends will tell you she still had in high school.
It breaks my heart to think that when she took her last breath, she did not have this beautiful smile on her face. Heidi was kidnapped, and presumed dead. Her death, as described in court documents based on witness statements and how others believe she died have induced more than one panic attack over the years.
I'll cherish this photo for my lifetime.
We are old enough to have a little personality show in photos. When I look at this one, my sister's smile stands out. This smile and ability to make others smile was a characteristic her friends will tell you she still had in high school.
It breaks my heart to think that when she took her last breath, she did not have this beautiful smile on her face. Heidi was kidnapped, and presumed dead. Her death, as described in court documents based on witness statements and how others believe she died have induced more than one panic attack over the years.
I'll cherish this photo for my lifetime.
 | I choose to remember Heidi's smile. Heidi suffered a painful and tragic death she didn't deserve. Rather than looking back and asking myself the "What if...?"s, I will remember her smile. Her smile, laughter, generosity, selflessness, and love for life is her legacy and those who were blessed to know her are better because she was in their lives. I know I'm better for having her as a sister. I can't say 100% what her last words were or if she was able to force the smile BUT I know this, she smiles now! Heidi's smile is eternal as she is held in the arms of Jesus, waiting until we see her again and I know with certainty, this day will come in God's time. |
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If so, you'll be notified when I go live.
If you've subscribed to my YouTube channel, you'll be notified when I go live.
In case you haven't, check back later and the video will be posted below.
In case you haven't, check back later and the video will be posted below.
"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances;
for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus...
May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you...
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials,
for we know that they help us develop endurance.
And endurance develops strength of character,
and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation."
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV; Numbers 6:25, NLT; Romans 5:3-4, NLT
for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus...
May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you...
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials,
for we know that they help us develop endurance.
And endurance develops strength of character,
and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation."
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV; Numbers 6:25, NLT; Romans 5:3-4, NLT
Do you have a chocolate mint cookie recipe to share?
If so, leave it in the comments for all of us.
Momma's Chocolate Cake
~ page 51 ~
 Oh my goodness, this photo fills me with so many emotions. Memories of Christmases long ago and then the couch - how many of you reading this remember this same couch at your house? I even think the gift she's opening is one of seasonal favorites today. It's nice to know some of the same things that brought us joy when we were little can still entertain and please children today.  This recipe is one shared on social media every year. The author and the first to share on social is a mystery too. I've never made this cake but love the nostalgic feel it lends for today's blog. If you give it a try, share it on social and remember to tag me so I can see too. If you have a favorite cake recipe, feel free to share it below. |  Today's recipe is chocolate cake from scratch, author unknown. I'm intrigued and a little nervous, I think I've only made chocolate cake from scratch twice in my lifetime. This is going to be an experience. My father and husband said they are willing to "take one for the team" and keep taste testing for this series. I hope they know what they're getting themselves into today. If I'm feeling brave, I might even try a homemade buttercream filling  The flyer in today's post shares relevant information about my sister's kidnapping. For some of you, this is the first time you've seen this and others, know it as well as we do. The Sheriff in now Don Hilton and the Lead Investigator is Tyler Morse - one thing ALWAYS remains the same, Heidi Allen remains missing until someone makes the call with the missing information to bring her home. Flyers are important when it comes to a missing person's case, this is the one thing that helps share the missing's photo, case information, and law enforcement contact information in one place. One flyer has the ability to bring home our missing and exploited children, One Child at a Time. |
Even though the person who shared . this recipe in the Heidi Allen Cookbook didn't include their name, I chose this one because it would honor someone else's mom and hopefully if he/she reads the blog, they'll remember Heidi and their Mom and lift a prayer in thanks for their wonderful Mom and #hopeforheidiallen.
While preparing the blog I decided to attempt the Buttercream Filling for the middle too, now to have the same confidence and courage to make it for the live on YouTube later today or catch it below after it airs. If you want to be notified when I go live, hit the subscribe button. I hope you are enjoying the blog and cooking series so far, we aren't even half way through yet. Share it with others who might enjoy.
While preparing the blog I decided to attempt the Buttercream Filling for the middle too, now to have the same confidence and courage to make it for the live on YouTube later today or catch it below after it airs. If you want to be notified when I go live, hit the subscribe button. I hope you are enjoying the blog and cooking series so far, we aren't even half way through yet. Share it with others who might enjoy.
Recipe for Momma's Chocolate Cake
Cookbook Page 51Ingredients 2 Sticks Oleo 4 Tbsp. cocoa 1/2 cup shortening 1 cup water 2 cups flour 2 cups sugar 2 whole eggs, beaten 1 Tbsp. vanilla 1/2 cup fresh buttermilk 1 tsp. baking soda Directions 1) Put oleo, cocoa, shortening, and water in saucepan and bring to a boil. 2) Mix together flour and sugar and then mix with liquid mixture. 3) Add baking soda to buttermilk. 4) Add eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk to mixture. 5) Pour unto greased and floured pan - either 13 x 9 inch or 2 8" round pans Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Don't overcook! Buttercream Filling | Chocolate Cake Epicure Style You have 2 options to Epicurize this one: Order your GF mix here for the easiest chocolate cake ever! Ingredients 2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking soda 1 tspCinnamon , optional 1 tsp salt 1 cup vegetable oil 1 cup buttermilk 1 cup cocoa powder 2 1⁄4 cups sugar 3 eggs 1 tsp vanilla 1 cup boiling water Preparation
Epicure Icing Options |
Check out today's recipe via YouTube here
Share your favorite chocolate cake
recipe in the comments below!
Today's Recipe: Seven Layer Cookies
 Today's recipe is one my Gramma Searles and one of my favorites. As I went through the cookbook and saw this recipe, I knew it had to be a part of this series. I can't remember the last time I made this and enjoyed eating it.  Heidi is four years younger than me. We shared a room for the majority of our childhood until I was in the middle school when my parents figured out how to remodel (put a thin 2 x 2 inch wall in the center of the room) and we each chose our paneling (yes, paneling used to be cool) and carpet. Heidi's room was purple flowers, a purple carpet, and I had to walk through her half of the room to get to my half. This was okay though because I had the window in my room. My room was also 2 inches wider, as she reminded me often. As we matured, she tended to hang in my room more often because it was cleaner. Heidi enjoyed being surrounded by clean.  |  Today's photos are of Heidi (yellow jacket) and I (blue & white coat) playing in the snow at my Gram and Aunt Nancy's house, next door. Our house is the in background of the photo when I'm pulling Heidi on the sled.  I was blessed to grow up with my Grandparents living next door. This allowed us the opportunity to spend countless hours surrounded my our family. Have you heard the phrase, "It takes a village"? We, Heidi and I, and our cousins, are products of our village.  While writing this blog I found myself staring into nowhere and lost in thought. I wasn't sure why or even what I was thinking about until a phone notification dinged, returning me to present time. Then I filled with sadness. Within minutes I was smiling, crying, and praying. Prayers of thanksgiving for good memories, prayers for Heidi's return, prayers for my Dad having to wake each day experiencing a pain I can't imagine, to sadness for my mom, Gram, and others who spent their last moments asking, "Where's Heidi?" or "Tell Heidi I couldn't wait." |
This series is a way to encourage, uplift, inspire, and share with you in true Lisa fashion, "Keeping it Real". I have no outline or script on what to write. The only thing planned is what recipe I'll make for the duration of this series. I spent a few days going through old photos and selected those I want to share without knowing what day they'd appear on.
I tell you this because when I started this blog and writing about the pictures of Heidi and I playing in the snow, I wasn't expecting the response I experienced. More importantly, I never planned to share how I was feeling after praying and writing about these memories. I contemplated deleting this portion and then decided, if I did that, I wasn't keeping it real, and I always want to Keep it Real.
This is reality. When we move forward, there will be times and moments of reflection and possibly even a tear or two. I won't apologize for this, instead, I want to encourage you, as you move through the holidays this year and in the future - embrace how are you feeling. Own your feelings. Process them and trust yourself to move forward stronger and better because of all you've endured, experienced, and survived. You are who you are today and it is something to celebrate.
Today, celebrate with seven layers of deliciousness!
Hope you can join me live on YouTube channel -
it will be fun. Stop at the grocery store this morning so you can bake alongside me.
I tell you this because when I started this blog and writing about the pictures of Heidi and I playing in the snow, I wasn't expecting the response I experienced. More importantly, I never planned to share how I was feeling after praying and writing about these memories. I contemplated deleting this portion and then decided, if I did that, I wasn't keeping it real, and I always want to Keep it Real.
This is reality. When we move forward, there will be times and moments of reflection and possibly even a tear or two. I won't apologize for this, instead, I want to encourage you, as you move through the holidays this year and in the future - embrace how are you feeling. Own your feelings. Process them and trust yourself to move forward stronger and better because of all you've endured, experienced, and survived. You are who you are today and it is something to celebrate.
Today, celebrate with seven layers of deliciousness!
Hope you can join me live on YouTube channel -
it will be fun. Stop at the grocery store this morning so you can bake alongside me.
Seven Layer Cookies | Seven Layer Cookies |
How does this recipe sound?
Who is giving this one a try?
  When you open the Heidi Allen Cookbook, this is the first page you see. Did you notice my Gram's note on the top, "Just the Grandmother"? This is evidence of my Gram's sense of humor. When the cookbooks were ordered, a few extras were ordered just in case. Those were sold before the order arrived and another printing was set into motion. Three printings later, everyone who wanted one had theirs and we, the family, also were able to get one. The abundance and overflowing love and support of our community and complete strangers remains a blessing for us. This selfless love and generosity is a reminder on the tough days that #hopeforheidiallen is eternal as long as our wonderful community is here. Thank you all so much! |  Monday December 5th, 2023 Day 3 in #HopeforHeidiAllen series Today's recipe: Glaced Spice Bars  This photo of me pulling my sister on the sled in my Gram and Aunt Nancy's driveway sums up our childhood. We had fun, laughed, and were always with family. I had the joy to live next door to my mom's parents, my grandparents, and my Aunt Nancy, who cared for them. Regardless of the weather, the kids were outside playing and the adults were inside baking, cooking, reading, and enjoying each other's company. These are times to be cherished because they don't happen like this as much today. Another reason I like this particular photo is because you can see our house in the background. If you were to recreate this photo today, County Route 1 runs through the fields. Growing up we didn't worry about cars traveling 65 mph or more, we simply walked next door. Our only concern when outside running and playing was when the warm cookies and hot chocolate would be ready on days like this. Today, there are a multitude of things we could focus on and miss the moments. I challenge you to pray for today and tomorrow as they come and pray you don't let the concerns outweigh the blessings and opportunities to give this next generation the same blessings. |
Glazed Spice Bars | Glazed Spice Bars |
This is a soft and healthier treat this holiday.
Do you have a favorite "healthier" treat recipe to share?
Today's recipe: Grama Searles' Magic Fudge
 Meet my Gram Searles ~ the woman who instilled a love to bake and spend time in the kitchen AND to read. Who inspired, or inspires you, to be the person you are today?  Prom...Gram celebrated the big and the little things with us. She emphasized the importance of family and togetherness. |  Christmas morning at Gram & Nancy's was a moment we all waited for. The ham cooked all night. Upon arrival, the house smelled delicious and everyone came. The house overflowed with people, food, and love. A tradition I still cherish.  I found this gem of working in the kitchen as little one. I remember this so well. The power of a photo, I guess I always enjoyed being in the kitchen. Cooking is fun and relaxing. |
Today's recipe is one of my Gram's from the Heidi Allen Cookbook. I am going to give it a try and praying for the best. As to date, my fudge making is less than adequate. To all of you who make fudge, kudos! Fudge is an art form.
Maybe if I can pull of Gram's Magic Fudge, I'll give my Mom's fudge another try. Worse case, Dad has fudge sauce for his ice cream again. LOL
Maybe if I can pull of Gram's Magic Fudge, I'll give my Mom's fudge another try. Worse case, Dad has fudge sauce for his ice cream again. LOL
Grama's Magic Fudge | Gram's Magic Fudge |
Do you have a fudge recipe to share?
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This is the cover and opening page of the cookbook compiled &organized by our amazing community after my sister's abduction.
Most of the recipes I share over the next 12+ days come from this recipe book and some my Gram stuffed in the back of her recipe book. There are many times when I'm looking for a recipe and know I have it written down "somewhere" and can't find it because it's in a "safe place", anyone else relate to this? Thankfully, most of my favorites can be found in this gem, the Heidi Allen Cookbook.
It was hard to pick just twelve so I decided to do twelve days of desserts - I still couldn't narrow it down to twelve so we'll have a few bonus recipes this month.
The twelve days of #hopeforHeidiAllen sharing some of my favorite sweet treats will post on weekdays at 7:42 a.m. est. The video may be empty when it first posts unless I get up early to bake, lol. The video will be added later in the day after I go live on my Youtube channel making the day's recipe.
Let's get this party started with recipe #1!
Most of the recipes I share over the next 12+ days come from this recipe book and some my Gram stuffed in the back of her recipe book. There are many times when I'm looking for a recipe and know I have it written down "somewhere" and can't find it because it's in a "safe place", anyone else relate to this? Thankfully, most of my favorites can be found in this gem, the Heidi Allen Cookbook.
It was hard to pick just twelve so I decided to do twelve days of desserts - I still couldn't narrow it down to twelve so we'll have a few bonus recipes this month.
The twelve days of #hopeforHeidiAllen sharing some of my favorite sweet treats will post on weekdays at 7:42 a.m. est. The video may be empty when it first posts unless I get up early to bake, lol. The video will be added later in the day after I go live on my Youtube channel making the day's recipe.
Let's get this party started with recipe #1!
Crisp | Crisp Gingersnaps |
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Available on Amazon.com
Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey * When the Waves Subside: There is Hope * Encourage Others: One Day at a Time No More Pain: I Can Fly * YOU are a Rainbow * Goal Setting for a Renewed You *Also available on Kindle* |
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