This is why I love, Blondie! Recipes, tips, tales of an every day life so different to my own.Congrats on winning the lovely cards and MK products, it couldn't have happened to a nicer person, lovely post Jane.
Sounds like a wonderful dinner! I noticed your silver utensils .. I promised myself that this year I would actually break out the beautiful china and silver that my mother in law passed down to me and well.. sadly, at the last minute I chose Chinette and plasticware once again. : ) WTG on the win!!!! Have fun decorating!!!
Your Thanksgiving table is awesome! Love the food pics, they are making me hungry this morning! Have a blessed day decorating with your daughter! Sending HUGS and PRAYERS your way!
Always love visiting your blog, a little of this a little of that. The food sounds so yummy!! I admire you for polishing all that silver. My MIL passed some of hers on to me and I really need to get them all cleaned up. And, congrats on winning all those goodies.
Blondie, It all looks so nice. I like the simple cheese and fruits. Lucky you winning some very nice gifts. I love that you are helping your daughter, then she will help you. That sure makes it more fun. Bless you, xoxo,Susie p.s. Hope your hands are like new. I like polished silver much better. :)
Jane, your cheeses are making me hungry! Love your table. And Brussels sprouts are one of my favorites...hubby hated them until I thinly sliced, cored and layered them with garlic, cream, Parmesan cheese, toasted bread crumbs and a little butter. I think one reason so many don't like them is if they are overcooked they become bitter. Have a wonderful week.
Oh those brussel sprouts look amazing! I love them too and always looking for another way to dress them up. Your table looks beautiful and sounds wonderful that you and your daughter can help each other decorate! Miss Bloomers
Good Morning Jane, I an trying to catch up with friends this morning. I have enjoyed reading your blog and seeing what you have been doing. I see we have finally hit 28 degree after 61 yesterday, but so far lucky to miss the bad weather. Christmas will be here before we are really ready. I like brussel sprouts. My daughter made the ding dong cake for Thanksgiving along with the traditional pumpkin pie. It was yummy. Have a great day. Hugs and Prayers from Your Missouri Friend Shirley.
Your table looked beautiful and your food - YUM! I pinned both the Brussel sprouts recipe (I love them, too) and that bacon-blue cheese dip. In fact, I have some blue cheese leftover in the fridge, so I just may have to make this dip for me and Brian ASAP. ;-) I can't believe you polished all that silver, especially with recently having hand surgery. Ow! The giveaway you won...fabulous. The $100 gift card is just in time for you to use for Christmas presents! Like you, I'm going very slow on the Christmas decorating. No rush here, so it's all good.
Hi Jane, Your table looks lovely. The brussels sprouts sound good too. We had some for lunch today. I cut them and drizzled them in olive oil and sea salt, then baked them at 350 for 20 minutes. Very good, very simple, and healthy too. Glad you had a nice holiday! :) Hugs, Beth
Jane, All looks inviting and wonderful. Glad you used the Wrights, there is nothing better, I love how you "go with the flow" and make everything merry and bright, Xoxo, Vera
You ARE indeed lucky! Wow, a GC and products too?!
I think you saw my cheese platter from a few weeks ago. For some reason, cheese, or maybe trying different cheeses, really helps to break the ice if you happen to be somewhere where you don't know the other guests too well. I know that wasn't the case with you, but it does sound like your cheeses were the 'bell of the ball'.
I have a Brussels sprout recipe that is similar. It uses three different cheeses so I guess you could throw out 'healthy' when describing it! lol
Hi, Your dinner sounded wonderful. I love brussel sprouts too, after I learned how to cook them up. Yay, for you on your wins. Have fun decorating. Carla
That's amazing how pretty your silver turned out! I bet you're still sore from all that polishing though. :) That recipe sounds amazing...bacon, cream cheese, blue cheese...yes, please!!! Yum!
I can't believe you polished all that silver with your hands in their condition. It sounds like you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I think I'll make your baked cheese spread for my Christmas party…it sounds good.
Hi Jane... so glad you had such a nice Thanksgiving... your table setting looks so pretty!... and the food looks yummie... I LOVE brussel sprouts!... congratulations on your giveaways wins... wow, $100 to splurge on yourself with!... I would be so excited!... hope your hand is much better and you are enjoying getting your home ready for Christmas... thanks so much for your visits, they mean the world to me!... xoxo... Julie Marie
Wow--I know I commented here, Jane! The Internet going nuts? I love Brussels sprouts, but can't get anyone else in the family to even try the. I like tossing them in a little olive oil, pouring them out on a rimmed cookie sheet, and roasting them with a bit of sea salt til just tender. Love asparagus the same. Your hands are so busy, they must be doing well, I'm happy to think. And your winning the wonderful giveaways? Wow! So very glad to hear your Thanksgiving was so nice and that you were, as were we, with loving family--the very best part! xxx, Trudy
December 6, 2014 at 2:30 PM
[Image]We've had a few days to digest the "white" food and carbs so I feel it just might be okay to talk about food...mainly, the delicious dishes we had at our Thanksgiving celebration. I'm not so good at photographing food; you faithful longtime readers know that, so I'll keep those pictures at a minimum. I decided to start with something pretty and that's the table I did that was just a bit different than the one I did for "practice" a few posts ago. I had to make room for more guests so I just made a few changes. The salad plates were removed at the last minute to become dessert plates. I'm sneaky like that. The napkins were on the plates. Still pretty...just more practical.
<a data-pin-do="embedUser" href="http://www.pinterest.com/blndy9/"data-pin-scale-width="80" data-pin-scale-height="200" data-pin-board-width="400">Visit Jane Boudreau's profile on Pinterest.</a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script type="text/javascript" async src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
[Image]I changed the centerpiece out so we could see one another (Ha!). I lit the candles early, too, (not seen here) so it was more comfortable when they burned lower, I was able to get my hands on a big bouquet of flowers for $11 the day before and made several bouquets with them. I forgot to take pictures of the others. :(
[Image]I knew my silver was bad, but I kept plugging along with the idea that it was the patina that mattered, I got wise, asked for advice and finally did the old soak in aluminum foil and baking soda. Oh yes, a few splashes of white vinegar helps. And then I polished each and every piece, all 80 of them, with Wright's Silver Polish (thank you, Mary). You can see the difference from the top picture to the bottom. I was just so happy, but boy, my hands were not happy at all. I'm foolish. I was just going to do enough for my place settings, then I thought it was crazy not to do it all since I was soaking them in big pans. Well, whatever, I've recovered somewhat. :)
I made the ever elusive apple pie (for me), and it turned out scrumptious. Just not so pretty. I think I'm going to move on to cakes. If you turn your head to the right, that's a little heart I cut out. :}
[Image]
[Image]I absolutely adored this recipe. Not too many people like Brussels sprouts but I do and it wasn't until recently that I learned of all the ways you can prepare them. This recipe seems involved but don't let the steps fool you. Bits of panchetta, Gruyere cheese, all melted in a smooth white sauce and poured over blanched Brussels sprouts. Seconds anyone? Here's the link...keep this in mind for a Christmas side dish. We loved it!
[Image]I went last minute shopping at a new grocery store that has a great cheese and wine department. I decided to choose a few cheeses, some I've never tried. This is a goat cheese with Bosc pears in the center. Heavenly! It really is cool for me when my family tries new things. And they did! In addition, my son's fiancee, Deirdre brought a plate of cheese stuffed dates wrapped in bacon...seriously delicious!! Just neat to try different foods.
[Image]I had a nice variety of cheeses...Wisconsin Farmhouse Cheddar, Provolone, Blue cheese...and a few more. An assortment of crackers and some fruit; pears, apples and red grapes. I really loved how our guests stood around the island and tried different combinations. It made me happy that something so simple and easy made them smile. :)
[Image]This is a recipe that I have to share...it really was a great hit and so simple. You can do it ahead and it makes a pretty presentation.
1) Cook 7 pieces of bacon. Drain and set aside.
2) Drain off all but 1 T. of drippings and saute 2 T chopped garlic cloves for one minute.
3) Beat 2 8 oz. cream cheese (softened) until smooth. 4) Beat in 1/3 c Half & Half.
Stir in bacon, 1 t garlic, 4 oz. blue cheese, and 2 T chopped chives.5) Spoon into a small baking dish and bake at 350 for 15 minutes (you can refrigerate and do this prior to serving). Sprinkle the top with 2 T chopped walnuts before serving with crackers and/or fruit.
[Image]It never ceases to amaze me when I win a giveaway. In my six years of blogging, I've been so fortunate to win so many. And I recently won this bounty after joining in at Top This Top That blog. Sponsored by Mary Kay Cosmetics and BlogHer, I won a bunch of Mary Kay products, from make up brushes to lipsticks. And the big one was a $100 Visa card. I am beyond belief!! How did I get so lucky? I love the cosmetics of course, and it's going to take me awhile to figure out how to use the card. Thank you so much, Laura!!
[Image]The last time I posted I mentioned a blogger whose photography I so much admire. And I also admire so many of you ladies that love the photography/writing connection...I think you know who you are. Sylvia not only takes the most stunning photos, her writing is outstanding and I totally get "lost" in her posts. I am absolutely mesmerized by the way she weaves within her photos... her stories. Please pay her a visit. And have a look at her cards, all graced with her beautiful, rustic pictures. I recently won a giveaway from her, five of her holiday cards Do me a favor...visit Sylvia, it would mean the world to me.
And that's all I have. Tomorrow I'm helping my daughter Emily get some of her Christmas decorations up, and on Monday she will help me. I'm just doing a bit at a time...our "live" tree won't come until the second week of December...that's when I get in the festive mood!
I'll get back to you on the bathroom and office reveal...The Husband is slow going on getting the office in order and I haven't had time to take photos of the bath. Much sleep needed here! :)
Jane xx
posted by Blondie's Journal at 11:56 PM on Nov 29, 2014
"THANKSGIVING TABLE AND RECIPES"
30 Comments -
This is why I love, Blondie! Recipes, tips, tales of an every day life so different to my own.Congrats on winning the lovely cards and MK products, it couldn't have happened to a nicer person, lovely post Jane.
November 30, 2014 at 12:32 AM
Looks like a delicious meal eaten on your beautiful table.
Congratulations on the wins. Have fun shopping! ;-)
November 30, 2014 at 12:34 AM
Sounds like a wonderful dinner! I noticed your silver utensils .. I promised myself that this year I would actually break out the beautiful china and silver that my mother in law passed down to me and well.. sadly, at the last minute I chose Chinette and plasticware once again. : )
WTG on the win!!!!
Have fun decorating!!!
November 30, 2014 at 5:20 AM
Sounds like you guys had a fabulous Thanksgiving and the receipes sound delicious too. Love the different cheeses.
November 30, 2014 at 5:38 AM
I love brussel sprouts too! :) ok off to visit sylvia :)
November 30, 2014 at 6:17 AM
Your Thanksgiving table is awesome! Love the food pics, they are making me hungry this morning! Have a blessed day decorating with your daughter! Sending HUGS and PRAYERS your way!
November 30, 2014 at 7:57 AM
Always love visiting your blog, a little of this a little of that. The food sounds so yummy!! I admire you for polishing all that silver. My MIL passed some of hers on to me and I really need to get them all cleaned up. And, congrats on winning all those goodies.
November 30, 2014 at 8:11 AM
Jane, love your mix of cheese appetizers!! I want to try those for my family!
And Sylvia's cards made me want to immediately jump there - I've added her to my blog list of reads - wonderful photographs.
Lucky you with the Mary Kay stash! I have a couple sisters who wear MK almost exclusively, and I know you love trying new things - have fun!
Lastly, we women always seem to overdo when we know what's best for us, but I sure love how your flatware turned out.
xo
Rita
November 30, 2014 at 8:37 AM
Blondie, It all looks so nice. I like the simple cheese and fruits. Lucky you winning some very nice gifts. I love that you are helping your daughter, then she will help you. That sure makes it more fun. Bless you, xoxo,Susie
p.s. Hope your hands are like new. I like polished silver much better. :)
November 30, 2014 at 8:51 AM
Jane, your cheeses are making me hungry! Love your table.
And Brussels sprouts are one of my favorites...hubby hated them until I thinly sliced, cored and layered them with garlic, cream, Parmesan cheese, toasted bread crumbs and a little butter. I think one reason so many don't like them is if they are overcooked they become bitter.
Have a wonderful week.
November 30, 2014 at 10:51 AM
Oh those brussel sprouts look amazing! I love them too and always looking for another way to dress them up. Your table looks beautiful and sounds wonderful that you and your daughter can help each other decorate!
Miss Bloomers
November 30, 2014 at 11:35 AM
Good Morning Jane, I an trying to catch up with friends this morning. I have enjoyed reading your blog and seeing what you have been doing. I see we have finally hit 28 degree after 61 yesterday, but so far lucky to miss the bad weather. Christmas will be here before we are really ready. I like brussel sprouts. My daughter made the ding dong cake for Thanksgiving along with the traditional pumpkin pie. It was yummy. Have a great day. Hugs and Prayers from Your Missouri Friend Shirley.
November 30, 2014 at 11:49 AM
Beautiful Thsnksgiving table Jane. The food looked so delishish, but that Apple pie, yum yum.Blessings Francine.
November 30, 2014 at 12:18 PM
Your table looked beautiful and your food - YUM! I pinned both the Brussel sprouts recipe (I love them, too) and that bacon-blue cheese dip. In fact, I have some blue cheese leftover in the fridge, so I just may have to make this dip for me and Brian ASAP. ;-) I can't believe you polished all that silver, especially with recently having hand surgery. Ow! The giveaway you won...fabulous. The $100 gift card is just in time for you to use for Christmas presents! Like you, I'm going very slow on the Christmas decorating. No rush here, so it's all good.
November 30, 2014 at 1:04 PM
PS - I bookmarked Sylvia's blog and will look at it in-depth later. Just from scanning through it a bit, I can see that her photos are gorgeous.
November 30, 2014 at 1:04 PM
Sounds like you had a great time and the new recipes look really, really good! Get some rest!
November 30, 2014 at 1:32 PM
Glad to hear the silver process worked well.
November 30, 2014 at 1:32 PM
Glad to hear the silver process worked well.
November 30, 2014 at 1:33 PM
Hi Jane, Your table looks lovely. The brussels sprouts sound good too. We had some for lunch today. I cut them and drizzled them in olive oil and sea salt, then baked them at 350 for 20 minutes. Very good, very simple, and healthy too. Glad you had a nice holiday! :)
Hugs, Beth
November 30, 2014 at 2:26 PM
Jane,
All looks inviting and wonderful. Glad you used the Wrights, there is nothing better, I love how you "go with the flow" and make everything merry and bright,
Xoxo,
Vera
November 30, 2014 at 5:06 PM
You ARE indeed lucky! Wow, a GC and products too?!
I think you saw my cheese platter from a few weeks ago. For some reason, cheese, or maybe trying different cheeses, really helps to break the ice if you happen to be somewhere where you don't know the other guests too well. I know that wasn't the case with you, but it does sound like your cheeses were the 'bell of the ball'.
I have a Brussels sprout recipe that is similar. It uses three different cheeses so I guess you could throw out 'healthy' when describing it! lol
I'm visiting your friend now. :)
xxx
November 30, 2014 at 5:48 PM
Hi,
Your dinner sounded wonderful. I love brussel sprouts too, after I learned how to cook them up.
Yay, for you on your wins.
Have fun decorating.
Carla
November 30, 2014 at 7:34 PM
Sounds like a lovely Thanksgiving...and after seeing your wonderful photos, I'm hungry!
November 30, 2014 at 10:46 PM
I think your apple pie is beautiful! So glad you had a lovely Thanksgiving!
December 1, 2014 at 12:20 AM
All fun stuff...delicious and beautiful Thanksgiving...lovely giveaway...so nice!
December 1, 2014 at 8:04 PM
Sounds like you had a great celebration! My SIL hosted this year, so I didn't even have to set the table. Have a great week!
December 2, 2014 at 6:01 AM
That's amazing how pretty your silver turned out! I bet you're still sore from all that polishing though. :) That recipe sounds amazing...bacon, cream cheese, blue cheese...yes, please!!! Yum!
December 2, 2014 at 8:30 AM
I can't believe you polished all that silver with your hands in their condition. It sounds like you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I think I'll make your baked cheese spread for my Christmas party…it sounds good.
December 2, 2014 at 10:38 AM
Hi Jane... so glad you had such a nice Thanksgiving... your table setting looks so pretty!... and the food looks yummie... I LOVE brussel sprouts!... congratulations on your giveaways wins... wow, $100 to splurge on yourself with!... I would be so excited!... hope your hand is much better and you are enjoying getting your home ready for Christmas... thanks so much for your visits, they mean the world to me!... xoxo... Julie Marie
December 2, 2014 at 1:55 PM
Wow--I know I commented here, Jane! The Internet going nuts?
I love Brussels sprouts, but can't get anyone else in the family to even try the. I like tossing them in a little olive oil, pouring them out on a rimmed cookie sheet, and roasting them with a bit of sea salt til just tender. Love asparagus the same.
Your hands are so busy, they must be doing well, I'm happy to think. And your winning the wonderful giveaways? Wow!
So very glad to hear your Thanksgiving was so nice and that you were, as were we, with loving family--the very best part!
xxx, Trudy
December 6, 2014 at 2:30 PM