June's Favorites

This month has gone by so fast. We returned from our Vacation in Florida. I started working almost full time and Alec has been working a construction job. We've been living in our apartment together, experimenting with recipes, exploring our new town and appreciating the time we get to spend relaxing after work.

Here are some of my favorite things from the month of June:

Monday's Menu: Week 1

Here is my first "Monday's Menu" post. Now that Alec and I are living in our own apartment and no longer eating college campus food, we are planning our meals weekly. This is saving us money at the grocery store and keeping us from rushing to fast food when we are hungry and have no idea what to have for dinner. 

Do you plan your menus out each week?

Perfect Pizza Dough

I have finally learned how to make homemade pizza dough. No more waiting for frozen bread dough to defrost. Say goodbye to trying to make box mix dough and ending up with more of it on your fingers than on the pizza pan. I've never made homemade dough before this recipe but I know I'm not going back. There is a special rewarding feeling that comes with biting into a slice of pizza that you made from mere ingredients in your kitchen. No more guessing what is really in the crust or how many preservatives were used. Just simple, fresh, delicious pizza.

40. Have a Candle Lit Dinner with Alec

First thing is first. My first giveaway winner has been chosen! Barb has won the two throw pillows and I've already sent her an email letting her know. Hoorah for Barb! Thank you to everyone that participated in the giveaway. I thought It was fun to host a giveaway and think I'll do another one soon. 

Next, I want to share an easy recipe for weeknight dinners. This simple twist on classic chicken and dumplings will be sure to feed your entire family and have them coming back for seconds.

My First Giveaway!

8.5" X 12.5"

8.5" X 8.5"

Saturday's Sweets: Mandarin Upside Down Cupcakes

Today I bring you a recipe that was a success on its first debut in our home. I got the idea from this post on the pineapple version of these cupcakes. The mandarin version is absolutely delicious. These little morsels are perfectly moist and sweet. The flavors of an upside down cake seem so delightful when they are portioned into cupcakes.

Refreshing Novels and Thoughts of Spring

Hello everyone.

I have finally got to spend some time relaxing in Florida. It was so refreshing to take a break from my stressful life and just exhale and breathe for a week in the sun. Luckily, I got to do some reading this past week and finished two books.