Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Comfort Food: Macaroni and Cheese

One of blogs that I follow, Our Best Bites, had an entry this week on comfort foods, actually a recipe for chicken pot pie that looks terrific.  I love this site, by the way. Anyhow, the authors, Sara and Kate, mention that they haven't found the perfect recipe for macaroni and cheese.  Well, I'm not sure that this is the perfect recipe, but it is definitely my family's favorite.

     2 lb box of elbow pasta
     2-3 blocks of extra sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
     6-8 cups milk
     2 eggs
     salt and pepper to taste
     paprika

Cook pasta according to package instructions.  Layer pasta, cheese, pasta, cheese in 2 medium sized casserole dishes.  This is a double recipe...my family REALLY likes it alot.  In a bowl, beat eggs with a fork.  Add milk, salt, and pepper.  Pour milk mixture over pasta and cheese.  The milk should not completely cover the pasta, but be just visible as you look down through the pasta and cheese (so maybe a half inch from the top of the pasta).  Sprinkle top with paprika.

 
See the depth of the milk?

 Bake at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes until top is lightly browned.

Plain and Simple.

Yummy!


Saturday, September 19, 2009

Nurturing Creativity

I started taking a collage class this week from the Art Association of Harrisburg.  Elaine Brady Smith is the instructor.  I love her vintage collages.  I've been creating collages and mixed media pieces for the past few years, but I think it will be fun to learn some new techniques.

Last weekend, I decided that I needed a portfolio and a tote to carry my work in progress and supplies for class.  So this is what I came up with.  I was very happy with the results.















Monday, September 7, 2009

Relaxing Labor Day

It was a nice, long weekend.  Rachael was home for three days.  We had plenty of time to visit and play cards with family.

I even found time to sew a bit.  In honor of the approaching autumn, gold was the color for the weekend.  I made a really cute little tote and a lined backpack.