Homemade Playdough

Easy to make jello scented homemade playdoh

:: Homemade Playdough ::

We love summer, but sometimes it can get a little busy.  How about some Homemade Playdough for those days when you spent a too much time in the sun! 

The kids and I have had our share of the pool and beach time.  In fact lately, I think I might have experienced a little too much sun.  Yes, I have been responsible reapplying the sunscreen but after dozens of loads of beach towels, I decided it might be a good time to stay inside during the rain and make some Homemade Playdough. [Read more…]

Red White and Blueberry Cupcakes

Red White and Blueberry Cupcakes. A fun festive dessert for the 4th of July.

:: Red, White, and Blueberry Cupcakes ::

It’s officially summer! These Red, White, and Blueberry Cupcakes scream 4th of July! With our easy Whipped Cream Frosting, blueberries, shortbread, and raspberry topping, these patriotic treats are a great way to end your summer barbecues!  It’s crazy to think how quickly this year has flown by.  What is even crazier, is as I blog this post, we aren’t even out of school yet. Tomorrow is the last day of 1st grade for my son, and Wednesday is the last of preschool for Madeline.  I actually think at this moment, I should be doing a post about a celebratory drink that is being enjoyed over a few little tears.  I can’t believe my baby will be in kindergarten next year, and my oldest in second grade.  Though they are almost taller than me, I still think of them as little babies.  Okay, enough about that…..let’s get ready to rock 4th of July next week, with these Red White and Blueberry Cupcakes! [Read more…]

Pan-Fried Onion Dip

Pan-Fried Onion Dip. Perfect for the summer. Spicy and tangy this onion dip is a must make.

:: Pan-Fried Onion Dip ::

I will run I will take an additional yoga class all to eat this Pan-Fried Onion Dip!  I promise you this will be the BEST onion dip you will ever make. It will have your doing back flips!  My friend Erica brought this amazing dip to a girl’s night I had a few years ago.  Just an excuse to get together with a couple of girl friends to watch a little Real Housewives of Orange County.  Yes, I know mindless television, but it allowed for us to catch up and hang out.  A couple of fun drinks plus some appetizers, made this for the perfect girls night in.  [Read more…]

Tres Leches Cupcakes

Tres Leches Cupcakes. Perfect for Cinco De Mayo. Topped with Walkers Vanilla Shortbread and Whip Cream.

:: Tres Leches Cupcakes ::

Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Sara, happy birthday to you!!! Oh my friends, you don’t know how much I appreciate my co-author and dear friend Sara! Today is her birthday, and we are going to celebrate with one of her favorite recipes, Tres Leches Cupcakes.  Honestly, I don’t know what I would do without my partner in crime.  She balances our Simply Happenstance in ways you don’t see.  We created Simply as a place to share our favorite things {food+family+lovelies}. It has grown because of our lovely readers and it keeps chugging away because of our partnership.  I am so very grateful for Sara.  I hope today turns out to be a relaxing and special with family. Soon Sara, we will have some Tres Leches together, maybe at Cafe Rio {wink}.  Happy birthday my friend!!! [Read more…]

Creamy Tomato Soup

Creamy Tomato Soup

:: Creamy Tomato Soup ::

There is nothing like Creamy Tomato Soup on a cold winter’s day.  It truly can warm the soul.  I myself love soup and I look forward to cold days when I can make a batch.  I often like to double my soup recipes, and save half for later.  It’s best enjoyed when I can’t think of what to make myself for dinner… when the kids are covered, and my husband is away for work.  When I have a plan, like homemade soup in the freezer, it makes life that much more enjoyable!

I know at this point in your lives, you have tasted a million Creamy Tomato Soups.  You have your favorite go-to place that you like to buy a bowl with lunch or dinner. Hey my favorites are Sundried Tomato and Paradise Bakery!  This Creamy Tomato Soup tastes much like one of my favorites, and that is why I love it so!  I had a severe addiction to Tomato soup during my pregnancies. 

It only takes a few key ingredients and a little bit of love and you’ll have yourself a steamy bowl of Creamy Tomato Soup in the comfort of your cozy kitchen!  A perfect start to any meal {such as Valentine’s Day}, or add a salad and some crusty sourdough, and you have a simple yet delicious meal on a Tuesday night.

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Burrata and Roasted Tomato Appetizer

Burrata and Roasted Tomato:: Burrata and Roasted Tomato Appetizer ::

The stockings are hung by the chimney with care, as the calendar continues to get filled by things here and there.  Are you feeling a bit like me?  Hoping to take in these small moments to enjoy what the season is all about, but have been asked to bring an appetizer to an event.  This Burrata and Roasted Tomato Appetizer is a win win for all.  It’s simple, tasty, and doesn’t require too much prep time or cook time.  It really is that easy. 

I have to be honest with you, I more often than not love an appetizer that requires multiple steps and takes a bit of time to prepare.  I feel those are the dishes that taste the best and look the best on a platter, but that is entirely the wrong approach when it comes to the holidays.  The company we keep and the family we see is what should require the most of our time.  Simple is best right?!? Good flavors and a nice glass of wine paired with a lovely dish really can make an evening worth the run around.

[Read more…]