We’re in mid-January and the temperatures are dropping. For those cold winter evenings, the best is snuggling up with someone you love, but a good second choice is a hot steaming cup of chocolate.

Did you know the word chocolate is said to come from the Mayan word xocoatl; the word cocoa from the Aztec word cacahuatl? In addition, the Mexican Indian word chocolat comes from the words choco, meaning “foam” and atl, meaning “water.” I so love to research, and with my Shadow Warriors series focusing on Aztec mythology, I run across all kinds of … Read More »

Tom Cruise, mostly notable for being one of America’s top grossing actors has done it again! Mission Impossible, has done the possible. After five years on hiatus, the actor pulled out all the stops for this movie and made a hit! He even got himself in tip top condition to play the part.

Nice arms!

Now, I have to admit Tom Cruise isn’t my typical choice for hunk of the month, but there is something sweet and sincere about his smile that makes me nostalgic.

I can never forget my crush on Lestat. Yes, he was an evil vampire but … Read More »

The holidays are fast approaching. Got your shopping done? I’ve gotten a bit of this and a bit of that, but I’ve still got all those stockings fillers to find. Honestly, I love this season: the decorations, the carols, and the touch of magic in the air.

During the year, I don’t do a lot of baking. But come the holidays, I dig out my favorite recipes and give them a workout. Here is a Blueberry Crumble Coffeecake that is fabulous for that lazy morning when you want to relax and enjoy your coffee or tea. Or serve it when … Read More »

There is so much to do. Thanksgiving over and the last of the turkey finished off. All leftovers thrown out of the fridge. Yup, after a few days, mashed potatoes taste like glue and the ham begins to stink up the fridge.

Spent the long weekend hanging decorations, putting out a huge Santa on my front lawn. Fixing the tree and getting the necessary chocolate candy, my favorite is Advent chocolates, eating one a day for 27 days! And not to forget, the geld. My neighbor in NY used to give this every Hanukkah to my kids and now I … Read More »

Happy Thanksgiving for those of you who are celebrating the holidays. Hope they are filled with good cheer, laughter and lots of delicious food!

You’ll notice I’ve gotten a face lift. How do you like the new improved me? I took out the borders for a wider look, one that I think is easier on the eyes. I still list all my events on the home page, but you’ll also find the latest blog, too. The bookshelf is sleeker and better laid out. You’ll notice I’ve got several Shadow Warrior books lined up and I can’t wait to reveal those … Read More »

If there is one thing I dread it is whipping up a fancy feast.
Seriously, I love the holidays, but they can get complicated and messy and I’m not talking about all the emotional issues (we know how that can get).

I am talking about a big messy kitchen and dining room table. I hate the clean up afterwards and the mess in between (albeit fun) can be tiring, and I have no intention of spending the next 2 hours after cooking to clearing the table, sweeping, and washing 2 loads of dishes.

So, this year, I have employed a … Read More »

Rum Punch. Yum!

Raise your glass and come celebrate the end of Hispanic Heritage Month over at Samhain Cafe. Come join me and the chicas as we chat, share recipes and discuss culture.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/samhaincafe/

Question: What is your favorite yummy drink? … Read More »

Fall is in the air andI am in the mood for warm savory foods that make me feel full and toasty. Nothing goes better with turkey and pumpkin pie than cornbread. I found this recipe on allrecipes.com.

Homesteader Cornbread By: WILLOWSMOM99
“This recipe comes from my mother-in-law in Canada. It’s the most moist corn bread that I have ever tasted. It’s great with chili con carne or as stuffing for your holiday turkey.”
Prep Time: 15 mins
Total cook time: 30 mins

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups cornmeal 2 1/2 cups milk 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 … Read More »

This Friday’s recipe is courtesy of Maiysha Clairborne. You can find more her delicious and nutritious recipes at drlifespeaks.com

I have been craving butternut squash for awhile now, but I hesitated making it b/c squash has always been do difficult for me to prepare. So, I decided to face my fears head on and what emerged is a wonderful tasting masterpiece, and it falls within my 30 minute or less requirement! See if you can replicate it!

Ingredients

1 (2 to 3 pound) butternut squash, peeled and seeded
2 tablespoons ghee or olive oil spread
1 tsp cinnamon
3 cups … Read More »

Hey everyone, here is a new sweet recipe that’s perfect for beating what is left of the summer heat. It is also a sweet way to bring in the fall.

Recipe: Helado de Mango (Mango Sherbert)

Time: 25 min 20 min prep

1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1 dash salt
2 mangoes, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup light cream
1/4 cup lemon juice, fresh
2 egg whites
1/4 cup sugar

1.Combine water, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt in saucepan. Cook 5 minutes, and cool.

2. Combine mangoes and cream in blender container. Blend til smooth. (Or, mash mangoes with … Read More »