tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87369587210218482024-03-18T05:17:11.291-05:00Home Made AustinHomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.comBlogger130125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-9377008143436663172018-05-24T15:22:00.001-05:002018-05-24T15:22:18.086-05:004 things that happened when I gave up sugar for 30 days<br />
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Pretty sure I'm the last person anyone would think would give up sugar for 30 days. I've loved sugar forever. We're BFFs. My Mom also had a sweet tooth, and loved making desserts when I was a kid & I don't think we've ever had a celebration, extended family dinner or holiday without something sugary at the center. Andrew & I often have nibble candy on weeknights. We keep sodas in the house. I am always up for an office donut or an afternoon coffee with a slice of cake. New ice cream shop? Count me in! <br />
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I didn't think I could do it, but somehow, I did it. For the month of April, I gave up sugar (with the exception of fruit). Here's what happened...<br />
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1. Nothing. </h3>
No weight loss (boo!) but no headaches or withdraws (yeah!). I really expected both of those things to happen, and I have to be honest, I was kinda bummed to not lose anything. But, I did allow myself several savory treats because I was being so 'good' & I think that's why I didn't see a difference on the scale.<br />
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I was so thankful to not have any headaches, hugely intense cravings or any other gnarly symptoms. I was a little more tired than normal, but that was the only downside I noticed. And that could just be due to work being busier than normal in April. My sugar consumption had gotten way outta control and I fully expected to be a rage monster when I gave up the sweet stuff. <br />
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2. It was easier than I expected. </h3>
ALOT easier. I fully intended this to be freaking hard. And while it wasn't a breeze, I quickly got into the habit of telling myself no. I had to remind myself like, 15 times a day, but I was able to walk away, or pull my hand back without feeling super deprived.<br />
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One thing that I think really helped was telling my co-workers. They were amazing through the whole journey, cheering me to keep going, telling me I was doing good. It helped tremendously. <br />
I also had one planned cheat. At work, we had an appreciation ice cream social planned around the middle of April, and I told myself it was my one allowance. Having that treat to look forward to helped me say no to the leftover cake or store bought cookies, that wouldn't taste as good as that <a href="http://amysicecreams.com/">Amy's</a> Mexican Vanilla scoop with hot fudge & sprinkles was going to. I may have planned exactly what I was going to have a couple of weeks before the event. I'm only human!<br />
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3. I proved to myself that I can accomplish something if I really want it.</h3>
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Normally, I'm the queen of good intentions and bad follow-through with personal goals. I can come up with a fool-proof plan, but when it comes to really doing the work, I blow it. Quickly, I lose my motivation, or I'll forget to meal prep for a day and it's all downhill faster than you can say 'Cookies in the breakroom!' </div>
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Giving up sweet treats for a month is really hard for a sugar-holic like myself, but I have to say I'm really happy that I set an intention and succeeded! I really wanted a win and I was able to get it. I have high hopes that it'll keep me motivated to move forward with other healthy habits. </div>
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4. It's way too easy to hop back on the sugar train. </h3>
I celebrated my first week after the 30 sugarless days with my favorite Godiva chocolate truffles, cookies & cupcakes from the new Lamar location of <a href="https://hayleycakesandcookies.com/">Hayley Cakes & Cookies</a> & a pint of ice cream from the grocery store. Damn. That's probably not how it should've gone. To keep myself from going overboard on the sweet stuff again, I have plans of going sugar free three or four days each week from now on. Because eating cookies for breakfast is easier than you think.<br />
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com97tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-55978306824817168142018-02-07T15:54:00.003-06:002018-02-07T15:54:55.456-06:00Easy Clueless Inspired ValentinesWe're a little short of a week 'till V-day! Are you ready? I don't know about you, but I feel like holidays always sneak up on me. I come up with a list of great ideas, gifts & to-dos, and never end up having enough time to make them all happen.<br />
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These sweet little 90's inspired goodies are perfect if you're short on time! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgru_2HJJoclcF6VqiBHM8_sqjiKOIiP1sq0T0cBy_n4OsyiFIlGlfVXv7gS8vUOC5mvvQ55HnkpgndLQgweTgMoKQC2-rxxKi51TvhYIfmteILu9n5K4-_XbgUSftDcjJhR804gQNI7jA/s1600/IMG_7039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgru_2HJJoclcF6VqiBHM8_sqjiKOIiP1sq0T0cBy_n4OsyiFIlGlfVXv7gS8vUOC5mvvQ55HnkpgndLQgweTgMoKQC2-rxxKi51TvhYIfmteILu9n5K4-_XbgUSftDcjJhR804gQNI7jA/s640/IMG_7039.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was watching Clueless the other day, for the first time in a long time and fell in love with the movie all over again. I was transformed to my former 13-year-old self....mesmerized by the creative outfits, intrigued by the vocabulary & loving how much fun I was having. So I promptly got on amazon to see if I could hunt down feather pens. <br />
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I was in luck, they are readily available & pretty cheap. So, prime yourself some pens, pick out your favorite Clueless lines & make your friend's day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7k3w6K8KQPprxngc-fK0JFl_k9KEcjuixL7ErWORbSGns3nBkli49-DgoHNxw-5iGWsPgSHOCqAzICmc7k_zzB3OluJ9JK6-XbxaibFvi1z4ZDYuk2BVTKIbx84-khW87xzABxUwjRU/s1600/IMG_6998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7k3w6K8KQPprxngc-fK0JFl_k9KEcjuixL7ErWORbSGns3nBkli49-DgoHNxw-5iGWsPgSHOCqAzICmc7k_zzB3OluJ9JK6-XbxaibFvi1z4ZDYuk2BVTKIbx84-khW87xzABxUwjRU/s640/IMG_6998.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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To make these fun Galentines, all you really need are <a href="https://www.amazon.com/U-S-Toy-Childrens-Drawing-Pens/dp/B0087QI132/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1517591548&sr=8-3&keywords=fuzzy+pens&dpID=41YSCFH02SL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch">feather pens</a>. Print or handwrite your notes, making them as fancy or as simple as you want, secure them onto the pen with a piece of cute washi or regular tape & you're done!</div>
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-25534845301298138422017-10-27T11:30:00.001-05:002017-10-31T09:46:52.859-05:00Fall Polenta Bowls with Pumpkin-Seed Crusted Chicken<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="text-align: start;">This post is sponsored by Wheatsville Food Co-op. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.</i></div>
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I've worn a cardigan two mornings in a row....and even though I've had to shift to A/C on my commute home each day....I'm calling it; I think it's Texas Fall y'all! Which means my meals are shifting towards winter squash, pomegranate seeds, soups & all the sweet potatoes I can manage.</div>
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These cheesy, creamy polenta bowls are overflowing with warm, roasted seasonal veggies, & finished off with a sweet zing from pomegranate seeds; one of my favorite ways to add a bit of fall to any dish. Pumpkin seed & tortilla chip covered chicken bites round out the bowl & I really love how they turned out. Just a bit crunchy & even though they are oven baked, there was no soggy breading to be found. And to season everything, I used fresh thyme. Fresh herbs have become such a go-to in my kitchen. I love the earthiness & flavor they add to dishes.</div>
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When I was creating this recipe, I wanted to make it quick enough for a weeknight, so I decided to cook everything but the polenta on a sheet pan. Wow, there's really something to sheet pan dinners. Chop everything, including the chicken, into small pieces & everything is on the table in about 30 minutes. Hard to beat. </div>
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One of my favorite places to get delicious, often local, mostly organic, fall veggies is <a href="https://wheatsville.coop/">Wheatsville Food Co-op</a>. They always have a super fresh selection of produce & I just feel healthier when I step inside. You really can't get any more 'Austin' than Wheatsville. They are the only retail food co-op in Texas & opened their doors in the Capital City in 1976, with a focus on local, organic, sustainable food options.</div>
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Last week, Andrew & I popped in to the South Lamar Wheatsville location with a mission: polenta bowls topped with as many roasted, seasonal veggies as I could. Pumpkin-seed crusted chicken bites were also on the menu. We've been wanting to try making our own breaded chicken for a while & I thought it would pair well with the fall produce & comforting, Parmesan filled polenta.</div>
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Wheatsville had a ton of ripe fall produce that we quickly added to our cart, along with a package of pre-marinated chicken breast. I thought the Wheatsville Chipotle Garlic & Honey Marinated Chicken Breast would go perfectly with the pumpkin seed/tortilla chip crust I was planning. Bingo! The slight spice from the chipotle & the sweet honey made for a super moist, flavor-packed bite. And I love that Wheatsville has these marinated packages ready to go. We're not great about remembering to marinate, but it's an important step to getting tender, tasty meat. They made it easy.</div>
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We then stopped by the bulk isle & grabbed some polenta & pumpkin seeds. Bulk bins are my favorite, because you can get just the right amount for a meal. And the prices are usually much better than what you can get in a package! Millagro tortilla chips, made right here in Austin, also went in the cart. I blended them with the pumpkin seeds & they added just the right pop of crunch to the chicken bites.</div>
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*CONTEST NOW CLOSED*</h2>
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I'm giving away a $30 giftcard to Wheastville Food Co-op over on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/homemadeaustin/">my instagram account</a> (<a href="http://instagram.com/homemadeaustin">@homemadeaustin</a>). Head over any time before Monday, October 30th at 10pm &, look for the photo that says Wheatsville Contest! on it to enter to win!</h2>
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Fall Polenta Bowls with Pumpkin-Seed Crusted Chicken</h2>
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1 package (2 breasts) Wheatsville Chipotle Garlic & Honey Marinated Chicken Breast, diced into 1 inch pieces<br />
2 eggs, beaten<br />
2 tablespoons milk<br />
salt & pepper<br />
2 teaspoon fresh thyme<br />
1 cup pumpkin seeds<br />
1 1/2 cups tortilla chips (I recommend local favorite El Milagro, available at Wheatsville)<br />
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1 small butternut squash, peeled & diced into small pieces, about 1/2 inch<br />
1/2 red onion, sliced thin<br />
2 purple sweet potatoes, peeled & diced into small pieces, about 1/2 inch<br />
1 large handful fresh green beans, trimmed & diced into small pieces, about 1/2 inch<br />
1 bunch fresh thyme<br />
4 teaspoons olive oil<br />
salt & pepper<br />
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2 cups cooked polenta, prepared according to package directions<br />
1 tablespoon butter<br />
1/2 cup grated Parmesan<br />
salt & pepper<br />
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1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds<br />
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Boil water or stock for polenta, turn oven to 400 degrees. Grease a large sheet pan.<br />
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Dice chicken, & create a dredging station. In one bowl, beat eggs, milk, salt, pepper & a few fresh thyme sprigs, stems removed. Grind together pumpkin seeds & tortilla chips using a food processor, then pour into a separate bowl. Season with salt & pepper. Dredge chicken in egg mixture, then seed/chip mixture, making sure to cover each piece fully in crumbs. Transfer each piece to the sheet pan, keeping them all in the middle.<br />
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Dice all veggies, then toss with olive oil, fresh thyme, salt & pepper. Arrange on sheet pan. <i>Note: you can toss each vegetable with olive oil, spices & herbs & arrange separately, or mix them all together.</i><br />
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Bake veggies & chicken until chicken is completely cooked through, 25-35 minutes. Cook polenta according to package directions. Once cooked, whisk in butter, Parmesan, salt & pepper.<br />
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Spoon polenta into bowls, then arrange chicken & veggies on top. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds.<br />
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<h3>
<a href="https://wheatsville.coop/">Wheatsville Food Co-op</a></h3>
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3101 Guadalupe</div>
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Austin, TX 78705</div>
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Open Daily, 7:30am - 11pm</div>
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4001 S. Lamar</div>
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Austin, TX 78704</div>
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Open Daily, 7:30am - 11pm</div>
HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-36882360782585440612017-07-14T00:52:00.000-05:002017-07-14T12:21:28.292-05:00Week-ending (7/15/17)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrc9Tw3hLYOvCOP7zCx27VvE9UzbbTQejoK1biNGuLLT5btm3gZJDvLIogjR028pE2J6BAA2yuJ0GtkXD3hv987L4Kvi1cOcMqMqRLmFKmVnhcqFFJrgW9oVrvuXKbHC2sDw6e5R4braU/s1600/IMG_9128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrc9Tw3hLYOvCOP7zCx27VvE9UzbbTQejoK1biNGuLLT5btm3gZJDvLIogjR028pE2J6BAA2yuJ0GtkXD3hv987L4Kvi1cOcMqMqRLmFKmVnhcqFFJrgW9oVrvuXKbHC2sDw6e5R4braU/s400/IMG_9128.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I wanted to give y'all a little peek into my week, with a new series I'm starting called 'Week-ending.' It's a sampling of things I'm obsessing over, the open tabs on my iPad, recipes I'm trying, what's going on in Austin & more. Have something I need to try/buy/read? Let me know in the comments, I'm always looking for new loves. <br />
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<h2>
It's my Jam</h2>
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This week, I'm totally digging:</div>
<ul>
<li>I'm don't usually crave cold treats (I prefer my sugar in cookie form) but I need to make <a href="http://www.awwsam.com/2017/04/rainbow-marbled-ice-cream.html">this ice cream</a> from <a href="http://www.awwsam.com/">AwwSam</a> to survive Summer. </li>
<li>Foam Rollers. I've had one for a while, used it off & on, but recently my neck/back have been killing me. It's now my new best friend. Check out some beginner tips <a href="http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/foam-rolling-exercises-beginners">here</a>. </li>
<li><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/538732185/among-the-wildflowers-gouache?ref=shop_home_active_6">This print</a> from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TalulaChristian?ref=l2-shopheader-name">TalulaChristian's etsy page</a> just made my wish list. Little by little I've been creating a gallery wall of fierce lady art in my bathroom & this print needs a spot in the collection.</li>
<li>Daily commutes are infinitely better & much more nostalgic now that I've discovered the <a href="https://fangirlfridayspodcast.podbean.com/">Fan Girl Fridays Podcast</a>. They discuss all kinds of TV, but focus on shows from the 90s & my inner teenager is LOVING IT! They've inspired me to re-watch Daria with Andrew, which is more awesome than I even remember.</li>
<li>This <a href="http://www.akailochiclife.com/2017/07/decorate-it-floral-and-succulent-filled.html">floral & succulent themed party</a> from Kara at <a href="http://www.akailochiclife.com/">A Kalio Chic Life</a> is making me want to have a get-together ASAP.</li>
<li>Speaking of parties, I have a couple of upcoming baby showers to attend & the new <a href="https://www.target.com/c/oh-joy-baby-clothing/-/N-4u960?lnk=OhJoybabyclothi">Oh Joy! baby clothing collection at Target</a> is bright, completely adorable & must be included in the next few baby gifts I buy.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrYcuUtgIz0xPtOlBYyO0B4Vuw_nR9CQTBZEyKVVFTJsAqj-zTd1SakM0lzlIjJibRoyJwGn_XJjOzXuvT_JC_spTEBstVloGj6B6qvY7zbkjLG_Cmf9iE9aAkMtbrLstXnvb902zILI/s1600/IMG_8986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrYcuUtgIz0xPtOlBYyO0B4Vuw_nR9CQTBZEyKVVFTJsAqj-zTd1SakM0lzlIjJibRoyJwGn_XJjOzXuvT_JC_spTEBstVloGj6B6qvY7zbkjLG_Cmf9iE9aAkMtbrLstXnvb902zILI/s400/IMG_8986.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Bookmarked</h2>
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Articles I came across that have my thinking:</div>
<ul>
<li>I need some much more of this in my life, <a href="http://totalmetox.com/2017/07/07/5-steps-to-not-giving-a-fuck/">5 Steps to Not Giving A Fuck</a> via <a href="http://totalmetox.com/">Me-Tox</a></li>
<li>Want Inspiration? The profiles of 5 awesome, creative immigrant women workin' it will put you in the mood to kick some ass, <a href="https://www.brit.co/tag/from-the-outside-in/?utm_content=2017-07-06-From-the-Outside-In-Launch-Email_05&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=From%20the%20Outside%20In%20(7%2F10)&utm_term=Brit%20%2B%20Co%20News">From the Outside In</a> via <a href="https://www.brit.co/">Brit + Co</a> </li>
<li>I like this perspective on spending <a href="http://www.bravelygo.co/why-you-need-values-based-spending-in-your-life-asap/">Why You Need Values Based Spending in Your Life ASAP</a> via <a href="http://www.bravelygo.co/">Bravely</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.homemadeaustin.com/2017/06/summer-reading-list.html">My summer reading list</a> is going well (2 books read, 1 in progress, 2 to go). I'm almost done with Beth Behrs <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Total-ME-Tox-Ditch-Your-Diet/dp/1602863083/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500050619&sr=8-1&keywords=me+tox">Me-Tox</a>. I'm really liking her laid-back, judgement-free style & it's getting me in the mood to up my health game</li>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl9tw6enjafFE7aCWeeIYjeITZp7g1ihC7W22gis7b8_6xABLnLmx5gkc55x3l4_25DOctdInQ3YEjpL9KGVV6NXA1rr4o1Aib3YFhnshnqO1LSw5Fnk1P_DvzRKTcmvAUob7rOhEUCQk/s1600/IMG_9125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl9tw6enjafFE7aCWeeIYjeITZp7g1ihC7W22gis7b8_6xABLnLmx5gkc55x3l4_25DOctdInQ3YEjpL9KGVV6NXA1rr4o1Aib3YFhnshnqO1LSw5Fnk1P_DvzRKTcmvAUob7rOhEUCQk/s640/IMG_9125.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bruschetta from Sophia's on West 6th Street</td></tr>
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<h2>
What we ate</h2>
Making meals during the week can be so hit or miss, but I'm hoping putting our weekly run-down on the blog will help me be motivated to cook a real dinner. <br />
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<ul>
<li>Monday: Went with a quick & easy go-to: toast with pesto, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes & fresh mozzarella, melted for just a minute under the broiler. Delicious & comes together in a minute.</li>
<li>Tuesday: We tried a new recipe: Chicken & Spinach Saagwala from Beth Behrs new book, Me-Tox. It was very tasty & I'm so glad I tried something new! The meal was slightly intense for a spice wimp like me, without much experience with Indian flavors, but it was delicious.</li>
<li>Wednesday: On Tuesday, we grilled several chicken breasts, so tonight was Tex Mex Bowls: rice with black beans, leftover chicken, sauteed onions & peppers, avocado, feta & a quick cilantro/yogurt/lemon (outta limes!) sauce. I love this kind of 'kitchen sink' meal.</li>
<li>Thursday: I had a Austin Food Blogger's Alliance happy hour at <a href="http://sophiasaustin.com/">Sophia's</a> on West 6th, so dinner was appetizers, drinks & dessert. I love these monthly get-togethers with my foodie friends & the bites were great. My favorites were the bruschetta (above) & the butter cake. </li>
<li>Friday: I picked up groceries earlier in the week for this <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-pesto-pasta-with-lemon-spinach-almonds-vegetarian-weeknight-dinner-recipes-from-the-kitchen-145783">Lemony Pesto Pasta with Edamame & Almonds</a> recipe from <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/">kitchn</a>, but I'm not sure we'll make it tonight. It's been a long week & energy is in short supply. If it doesn't get made tonight, we will have it over the weekend. </li>
</ul>
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<h2>
Get Outta the House</h2>
Weather is a factor this weekend, as it's slated to be in the upper 90s with rain chances, so most likely, we will be indoors as much as possible, but here's what's on my short-list of possibilities:<br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://zilker.org/">Wizard of Oz at Zilker Hillside Theater</a>. It starts every evening around 8:15pm & runs Thurs - Sunday, through Aug. 12</li>
<li>Food Crawl! I've been itching to try some of my friend <a href="http://girleatsworld.curious-notions.net/">Linda</a>'s picks for the best Tater Tots in Austin. Check out her tour at <a href="http://girleatsworld.curious-notions.net/best-tater-tots-atx/">Girl Eats World</a>. </li>
<li>It's damn hot outside, which is a great excuse to start a new book! Half Price Books is running an awesome coupon sale through July 16th & I may have to pick up something new. Sign up to receive their coupons <a href="http://hpb.com/join">here</a>.</li>
<li>Not happening this week, but my *favorite* comic, Whitney Cummings is going on a tour to promote her <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fine-Other-Lies-Whitney-Cummings/dp/0735212600/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500048920&sr=8-1&keywords=whitney+cummings+book">new book</a> & tickets for her October 16th show at the <a href="https://tickets.austintheatre.org/single/EventDetail.aspx?p=2945">Paramount</a> go on-sale today....I'm so excited!</li>
</ul>
HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-17496334181573418052017-06-21T10:14:00.003-05:002017-06-21T10:14:26.255-05:00Summer Reading List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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How is it already the middle of June? And why is it already 100 outside?!? I'm going to need alot of pool time this year. And with lots of pool lounging comes plenty of reading. </div>
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My book club is taking the summer off, so I thought that I would challenge myself to read a few books with intention. All six of the authors I chose are female, with unique perspectives, discussing a variety of topics. After being captivated with the Wonder Woman movie earlier this month, I am looking forward to engulfing myself in other women's stories. The future is female y'all. </div>
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What are you reading this summer? I'd love to hear your picks! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAHGCkBxwzhZkvotg5NzsvGvIO0fhGEn8lmXAdOslD6fjrhOQ8z0IOALc_h5qaru4pm4Bx_iUsWmOpAUYj-GpsL9_3UHIiXY4d7rTcstsd-zTai1QNNRHbXdM5o57g9y0RYq9-1CNjaY/s1600/IMG_8871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" height="451" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAHGCkBxwzhZkvotg5NzsvGvIO0fhGEn8lmXAdOslD6fjrhOQ8z0IOALc_h5qaru4pm4Bx_iUsWmOpAUYj-GpsL9_3UHIiXY4d7rTcstsd-zTai1QNNRHbXdM5o57g9y0RYq9-1CNjaY/s640/IMG_8871.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Total-ME-Tox-Ditch-Your-Diet/dp/1602863083/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497276279&sr=8-1&keywords=total+me+tox+book">The Total ME-Tox</a>, <i>Beth Behrs</i><br />
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I must confess that this book first peaked my interest because <a href="http://www.cbs.com/shows/2_broke_girls/">Two Broke Girls</a> is my jam & I love Beth Behrs...I mean, after kinda stalking her instagram page, seeing her feminist leanings, love of outdoors & boho style, I'm pretty sure if we met, we'd be friends. And you have to buy your bestie's book, right?<br />
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Right. In all seriousness, I'm intrigued & very interesting in exploring this book. Behrs focuses on small, simple healthy changes, & there are three parts to the book: ditching your diet (liking the sound of this already!), move your body and love your life. Yes, yes and yes. After a hectic spring that included me taking a month to recover from surgery, my household could handle a big 'ol dose of wellness. And the Amazon page for the book says it's meant to 'inspire even the laziest among us.' Umm, was this written just for me? Because that line worked on my ultra-sluggish self & I added the book to my cart immediately.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMytvu1beadhSztWDoj80_zF2QeHAUKW9sqHBWOm6lt0JoR-t8hmwVXdr3dKLg5l28EFJLzHieKOBg1fBhztVamh68mZkDti1A5Pknyo05c2lVFX6mdwZpAcQ2A8RuBEy5-RLP12t7CY/s1600/IMG_8864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMytvu1beadhSztWDoj80_zF2QeHAUKW9sqHBWOm6lt0JoR-t8hmwVXdr3dKLg5l28EFJLzHieKOBg1fBhztVamh68mZkDti1A5Pknyo05c2lVFX6mdwZpAcQ2A8RuBEy5-RLP12t7CY/s640/IMG_8864.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Pray-Love-Everything-Indonesia/dp/0143038419/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497276338&sr=8-1&keywords=eat%2C+pray%2C+love">Eat, Pray, Love,</a><i> Elizabeth Gilbert</i><br />
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Liz Gilbert is one of my favorite people to seek out when I'm in need of inspiration. Her words, whether in a book, on her <a href="https://www.elizabethgilbert.com/magic-lessons/">Magic Lessons podcast</a> or in a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GilbertLiz/">facebook</a> post are always positive, thought provoking & real. I've read Eat, Pray, Love before & adore Liz's story of traveling to 3 countries (Italy, India, Indonesia) in the hopes of being her best self. With each read, I come away with something different & a renewed sense of personal motivation. Summer feels like the perfect time to dive back into the 'finding yourself' pool. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3b7CJtaRTYv7Uiph6C2qBWHlDN3kURPCZZSYrR8ZxBLzO-LMMkOT2rtipF1o6OT2-TXBfi50n39w3mjhRP_mXf5JRmbdDQ48_jTYQxrYOMlJojsBshynuN3KaPtOW1BmhwVmM0MnInc/s1600/IMG_8868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3b7CJtaRTYv7Uiph6C2qBWHlDN3kURPCZZSYrR8ZxBLzO-LMMkOT2rtipF1o6OT2-TXBfi50n39w3mjhRP_mXf5JRmbdDQ48_jTYQxrYOMlJojsBshynuN3KaPtOW1BmhwVmM0MnInc/s640/IMG_8868.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Are-You-There-God-Margaret/dp/148140993X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497276388&sr=8-1&keywords=are+you+there+god+it%27s+me+margaret">Are Your There God? It's Me, Margaret,</a><i> Judy Blume</i><br />
<i><br /></i>This book is a right of passage for every young girl, right? I hated junior high with a passion (f--- you 7th grade!), but I remember reading, loving & relating heavily to this book. For the life of me, I can't really remember the storyline, but when I saw this on the shelf at <a href="http://www.bookpeople.com/">Book People</a>, I couldn't help myself. I am pumped to relive this Judy Blume story & maybe even a few cringe-worthy moments from my early teens. Thankfully, I don't have braces, awkward growth spurts or mean girls to deal with this go around. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpRVkk6QQpe4QxT81z1X1hJIPryZpCZDElwmmBU3j659CVZbnxiMGYJxLcEHhRPqrS3dPuwoAyvduRQEyvypD3ZaNu8AZ4VLHhMfJ4XZ4ZAdNn2h-gStZIxfOt716A_CMFC0i5srU6GfU/s1600/IMG_8869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpRVkk6QQpe4QxT81z1X1hJIPryZpCZDElwmmBU3j659CVZbnxiMGYJxLcEHhRPqrS3dPuwoAyvduRQEyvypD3ZaNu8AZ4VLHhMfJ4XZ4ZAdNn2h-gStZIxfOt716A_CMFC0i5srU6GfU/s640/IMG_8869.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Kristys-Great-Idea-Full-Color-Baby-Sitters/dp/0545813875/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1497276452&sr=8-3&keywords=babysitters+club+graphic+novel+set">The Baby Sitter's Club, Kristy's Great Idea,</a><i> Ann M. Martin and Raina Telgemeier</i><br />
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As a kid, my Mom bought me a mail subscription to The Baby Sitter's Club. IT WAS AWESOME. I received a book in the mail each month & as soon as it arrived, I would devour it. Claudia, the artsy one in her girl squad, was my favorite character & I got overly excited when a book focused on her. I was in <a href="https://www.target.com/">Target</a> the other day when I came across these new graphic novel versions & <b><u>had</u></b> to grab the first one. I got so giddy, I called my sister as I was leaving the store, book in hand. The first four stories of the series have been published -- I may just have to read all of them.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/House-Mango-Street-Sandra-Cisneros/dp/0679734775/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497276556&sr=8-1&keywords=the+house+on+mango+street">The House on Mango Street</a>,<i> Sandra Cisneros</i><br />
<i><br /></i>I didn't read this one in school, so I'm really looking forward to reading this story of a young Latina girl in Chicago, trying to find her way. I'm fascinated with the experience of growing up in large cities, as it's so different from the small, isolated community I was raised in. Sandra Cisneros is known for a poetic, flowing style (love this type of writing!) & is one of the reasons I picked up the book. The story is told in vignettes, each describing an event in the main character's life & I think that will make for a very interesting, realistic read. <br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/How-Be-Woman-Caitlin-Moran/dp/0062564749/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497276580&sr=8-1&keywords=how+to+be+a+woman">How to Be a Woman</a>,<i> Caitlin Moran</i><br />
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Since my summer is all about the world through women's eyes, my final summer book is feminist focused. How to Be a Woman is a mix of personal accounts & commentary on the modern woman's experience. Caitlin Moran's work is known for being bold, funny & smart. I'm sold. <br />
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<i><br /></i>HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-72977255931612341332017-06-19T16:05:00.000-05:002017-06-21T16:51:54.707-05:00Charred Corn Flatbread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Charred corn is one of our favorite summer go-tos. It's so easy to make & it pairs with almost anything. Not to mention, corn is cheap, cheap in the summer months. We grill up several pieces at once on Sunday & use them all week long in salads, as-is, or our new obsession...as an awesome pizza topper!<br />
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The burnt bits of the corn & grilled red onions are full of smoky flavor & the tomatoes, lime & basil add a pop of bright freshness. If you're not a basil fan, you could totally swap that out for cilantro & it would be just as delicious. We have only eaten the pizza by ourselves so far, but I think that if you sliced it into smaller pieces, it would make the perfect appetizer for a fajita night with friends. (Mentally adding that to my to-do list now).<br />
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Charred Corn Flatbread</h3>
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1/4 batch of your favorite pizza dough (We use the <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Joy-of-Cooking/dp/0743246268/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498078826&sr=8-1&keywords=joy+of+cooking">Joy of Cooking</a></i> recipe or <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/pizza-dough-recipe-1921714">this recipe from Bobby Flay</a>)<br />
olive oil spray<br />
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella (or 12 ounces fresh mozzarella)<br />
2 ears of corn, shucked, soaked, grilled & cut off the cob<br />
1/3 medium red onion, sliced thin & grilled<br />
handful of cherry tomatoes, diced into quarters<br />
lime wedge<br />
grated parmesan for topping<br />
large handful basil, chopped<br />
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Preheat oven and pizza stone to 475 degrees. Flour your surface and roll out dough thin to form a circle about 12 inches or so in diameter. Poke a few holes in your dough with a fork & spray dough with olive oil spray. <br />
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Top liberally with mozzarella cheese, then add charred corn, onions & tomatoes. Bake on pizza stone for 6 - 8 minutes, until cheese starts to bubble & the dough begins to brown. Top with squeeze of lime, sprinkling of parmesan & chopped basil. Slice & serve immediately.<br />
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-89342981015179070742017-06-12T03:19:00.000-05:002017-07-03T16:09:24.909-05:00Nerfetti Cream Cheese Frosting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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As my tastebuds have altered as I age, I have developed an affection for the combo of sweet & sour. I still can't handle lip-puckering super sour treats, but a little bit of zing with dessert always makes me happy. A few years ago, I created a decorate-your-own-cupcake bar for a party & it was a big hit. I filled the table with several different candies, sprinkles & more. After the party was over, I was cleaning up & created a little combo of regular buttercream, mini chocolate chips & some NERDs candy sprinkled on top. It was so delicious, I wrote it down in my idea notebook & forgot about it.<br />
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In March, I always make chocolate cupcakes with green frosting for Andrew's cousin Marty's birthday. Often, I just make plain green buttercream frosting, but this year, I wanted to mix it up a little bit & remembered my cupcake bar creation. I mixed up this fruity, slightly sour concoction & I think it turned out great! The rich cream cheese frosting with the punch from the candy makes for a unique flavor combo.<br />
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<h3>
Nerdfetti Frosting</h3>
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened<br />
1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened<br />
1 lb. Powdered Sugar, sifted<br />
1 teaspoon Vanilla<br />
5 ounce box <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_2_11?url=search-alias%3Dgrocery&field-keywords=nerds+candy&sprefix=nerds+candy%2Caps%2C156&crid=32L5AH5YRPEKY">Nerds Candy</a>, plus more for decoration<br />
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Cream butter & cream cheese together until smooth. Slowly, in batches, mix in the powdered sugar. Once all sugar is incorporated, add in vanilla & mix until smooth. By hand, stir in candy. Frost as desired.<br />
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Note: I tried using a piping bag & star tip to frost cupcakes, but the tip kept getting clogged with the candy bits. I had a very hard time with it & abandoned the idea quickly, so frosting by hand is probably best.<br />
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com147tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-77773832074564095702017-03-02T11:08:00.004-06:002017-03-02T11:08:38.501-06:00#ATXBESTEATS A round-up of Great Austin CookiesAs a kid, I was never really sheltered from dessert. I grew up with a fine appreciate for sweets, especially homemade. Often on the weekends, my mom would make cobblers, pies or cookies & we would d-e-v-o-u-r them. My mom was a great cook, but she really loved baking. Her love of sugary confections showed in every cookie, slice & spoonful that came out of her oven. I've told you a little bit about her famous <a href="http://www.homemadeaustin.com/2016/11/diy-decorate-it-yourself-sugar-cookies.html">sugar cookies </a>before on the blog. <br />
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So, I blame my deep affection for cookies on her. :) As part of the <a href="http://austinfoodbloggers.org/best-places-to-eat-in-austin/">AFBA City Guide</a> this year, I decided to tell you about some of my favorite cookies around Austin. Because, we could all use a treat now & then, right?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baked by Amy's</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.bakedbyamys.com/">Baked by Amy's</a></h3>
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<b>13265 North Hwy. 183; Sunday - Thursday, 10am - 8pm, Friday - Saturday, 10am - 9pm</b></div>
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If you want true Austin charm in cookie form, look no further than Baked by Amy's. You have to try their Austin-centric, Texas shaped sugar cookies. 1. They are absolutely adorable, with 'your my better half,' 'i love you so much,' 'don't mess with Texas' & plenty of other fun Austin designs. 2. They are some of the best bakery sugar cookies I have ever had! These guys are thick, but surprisingly soft, with a great flavor. Bonus: These cookies come packaged, so they would be perfect for a mid-week treat for loved ones or an Austin-themed basket for someone missing the River City!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Crema Bakery & Cafe<br />
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<h3>
<a href="http://cremabakerycafe.com/">Crema Bakery & Cafe</a></h3>
9001 Brodie Lane, Sunday - Wednesday, 7am - 5pm, Thursday - Saturday, 7am - 7pm<br />
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A local favorite of ours, Crema always has a full case of beautiful sweet treats. Nestled in a little shopping center on Brodie Lane, Crema is a fun place to sit & read a book, while satisfying your sweet tooth. Try the oatmeal cookie with a latte & you'll be happy. I'm also partial to their chocolate chip, or on occasion, their decorated shortbread. You really can't go wrong with anything from their case.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kellie's Baking Co.<br />
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<a href="http://www.kelliesbakingco.com/"> Kellie's Baking Co.</a></h3>
5245 Burnet Rd., Monday - Friday, 10am - 6pm, Saturday, 10am - 3pm, Closed Sundays<br />
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This sweet, colorful shop on Burnet Rd. brings the goods. Try the Brookie, for a decadent, shareable bite. This stellar treat is a brownie, topped with a chocolate chip cookie, covered in marshmallow goodness. Droll worthy, right? Now, when it comes to something you'll want to save all for yourself...try the Peanut Butter or chocolate chip cookie stuffed with caramel & chocolate. They're large & most definitely in charge. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">La Mexicana Bakery<br />
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<a href="http://www.la-mexicana-bakery.com/">La Mexicana Bakery</a></h3>
1924 S. 1st Street, Open 24 hours<br />
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If you've never been to a Mexican bakery, I highly recommend trying La Mexicana Bakery on S. 1st. It's open 24 hours & always has smiling faces behind the counter. I love La Mexicana because their cookies are just slightly sweet (which means you can eat more!) & always so bright & colorful. I always go for the ones with sprinkles, or Mexican wedding cookies. <br />
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Quack's 43rd Street Bakery</div>
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<a href="http://www.quacksbakery.com/home">Quack's 43rd Street Bakery</a></h3>
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411 E. 43rd Street, Monday - Friday, 6:30am - 11pm, Saturday, 7am - 11pm, Sunday, 7:30am - 11pm</div>
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With fun combos like Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk, Nutella filled Tea Cookies & Chocolate Ginger, Quack's cookies are perfect if you're wanting to try something new. And the hearty dose of laid-back Austin attitude makes you feel right at home. They also have ever-changing decorated cookies, that are always cute & original. You have to try one, & just to rub it in that you're eating something so tasty...you gotta instagram it.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sugar Mama's Bakeshop</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.sugarmamasbakeshop.com/">Sugar Mama's Bakeshop</a></h3>
1905 S. 1st Street, Tuesday, - Saturday, 10am - 9pm, Sunday, 10am - 6pm<br />
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Sugar Mama's Mexican Wedding Cookies may be one of my favorite cookies. They are soft, tender, buttery, full of pecan pieces & just the right size. You need to try these; while strolling down S. 1st street with a good cup of coffee in one hand, & your cookie in the other. Also, make sure you pick up a Salted Caramel Snickerdoodle & an Everything Cookie, filled with peanut butter, oats & chocolate.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweetish Hill</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.sweetishhill.com/">Sweetish Hill Bakery</a></h3>
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1120 W. 6th Street, Monday - Saturday, 6:30am - 7pm, Sunday 6:30am - 3pm<br />
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An Austin institution, Sweetish Hill has been a go-to of mine for years. Their cute shop is along the quieter side West 6th street & is a wonderful place to spend some time. I love their nutty, pecan-filled sand tarts & of course, the 'Deep in the Heart of Texas' shortbread. Also try the black & white or the palmier.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Walton's Fancy & Staple<br />
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<a href="https://www.waltonsfancyandstaple.com/">Walton's Fancy & Staple</a></h3>
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609 W. 6th Street, Monday - Saturday, 7am - 7pm, Sunday 8am - 4pm</div>
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A great afternoon can be spent sipping a cup of coffee with a salty oats cookie on your plate, sitting in one of the outdoor tables with a little sun shining. After enjoying your sweet Walton's treat, I recommend walking through Book People, Whole Foods or Waterloo Records, as they're all within eye-sight. And take a ginger cookie with you for later, they are over-sized, chewy, sweet & zingy.</div>
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Be sure to check out the rest of the <a href="http://austinfoodbloggers.org/best-places-to-eat-in-austin/">AFBA City Guides</a> that cover great places throughout the city!</div>
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HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-17177730208042275262017-03-02T08:32:00.000-06:002017-03-03T12:27:37.048-06:00#ATXBESTEATS Deep South Austin<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
A few years ago, when we moved in to our first 'real' home in deep, deep South Austin (almost in Manchaca, but still rooted in Austin), there was very little in the way of local restaurants in our neighborhood. Or good restaurants for that matter. Fast food chains & a couple of not-so-good take out places seemed to be our only options.</div>
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Recently, though, delicious Austin-owned eateries have been popping up all over between William Cannon & Slaughter Lane, keeping our bellies & mouths happy! And if the last few months have been any indication, we are hopeful that many more restaurants are on their way.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a6ncp6QBdwR219poSags_LZtHqNwLVDGKrKVDxyD7A5L7aY1AvCJTOzHDlxI__KH6s8xd6zzNK4oQWR44dvR4plDr7vLReLQ06HPHmlmy4T43s7hBXv1N_HT3dmGv1Dim3qklJKFomI/s1600/IMG_0597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a6ncp6QBdwR219poSags_LZtHqNwLVDGKrKVDxyD7A5L7aY1AvCJTOzHDlxI__KH6s8xd6zzNK4oQWR44dvR4plDr7vLReLQ06HPHmlmy4T43s7hBXv1N_HT3dmGv1Dim3qklJKFomI/s640/IMG_0597.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aviator Pizza, South Congress Ave.</td></tr>
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Below are my picks for great eats in deep South Austin. What are yours? I'm always looking for great places that are close, so if I've left off your favorite, please let me know! </div>
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And if you're looking for more tasty fare that's a little further North, but still firmly in South Austin, check out <a href="http://www.southaustinfoodie.com/">South Austin Foodie</a>'s awesome addition to the 2017 AFBA City Guide, <a href="http://www.southaustinfoodie.com/2016/02/the-best-restaurants-in-south-austin.html"><i>Best of South Austin Restaurants</i>.</a> You can also check out the rest of the AFBA City Guides that cover great eats throughout the city, <a href="http://austinfoodbloggers.org/best-places-to-eat-in-austin/">here</a>!</div>
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Breakfast/Brunch</h2>
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<a href="http://cremabakerycafe.com/">Crema</a></h3>
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9001 Brodie Lane, Monday - Saturday, 7 am - 9 pm</h4>
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Solid breakfast/brunch options, delicious pastries & a good cup of joe. With a large variety of cake balls, cookies & cupcakes that'll sooth your sweet tooth, you'll leave with a smile on your face. They also serve up tasty sandwiches, salads & soups.<br />
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<a href="http://www.kerbeylanecafe.com/">Kerbey Lane</a></h3>
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4301 William Cannon, 24/7</h4>
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Austin weird meets arguably the best breakfast in town. They have a full menu, but their omelets, varieties of eggs benedict & pancakes are tops. Plus, it's fun to have breakfast anytime. With weekly flapjack specials, seasonal menus, lots of vegan options & dang good queso, they've got something for everyone. Try the baked potato omelet, a sandwich with sweet potato fries off the seasonal menu or the buttermilk pancakes with lots of butter. No syrup needed.</div>
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<a href="http://rivercitydonut.webs.com/">River City Donuts</a></h3>
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1945 William Cannon, 7 days a week, 5 am - 9 pm</h4>
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Simple, tasty, consistent donuts & sausage kolaches. Strike up conversation with the older men drinking coffee while you're waiting in line & make sure you get at least a few of the Bavarian cream donut holes. They're worth the calories.</div>
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<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/macho-taco-austin">Macho Taco</a></h3>
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12110 Manchaca Rd., Monday - Thursday 6:30 am - 5 pm, Friday 6:30 am - 7 pm, Saturday 7 am - 7 pm, Sunday 8 am - 5 pm</h4>
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Inexpensive traditional Tex-Mex known for their breakfast tacos, lunch specials & more. The juevos rancheros is my go-to, along with the make-your-own breakfast tacos. The service is always friendly, and while there is alot of seating, it fills up around popular breakfast hours, so be prepared to wait a few minutes.</div>
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<a href="http://www.wholybagelatx.com/">Wholy Bagel</a></h3>
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4404 William Cannon, Weekdays 6 am - 3 pm, Weekends 7 am - 3 pm</h4>
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Incredible, no frills New York style bagels & delicious specialty cream cheeses. Many claim Wholy Bagel to be best in town. Very few would argue. Be sure to get there early to make sure you get your favorite flavor! Very limited seating, but lots of parking.</div>
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<h2>
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<h2>
Quick Bites</h2>
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<h3>
<a href="http://www.tinosgreekcafe.com/">Tino's Greek Cafe</a></h3>
<h4>
<b>9905 Brodie Lane, Monday - Saturday, 11 am - 9 pm, Sunday, 11 am - 8 pm</b></h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">You'll find all of your Greek favorites with quick service. I usually go for the Vegetarian Platter which includes 5 sides of your choice. The falafel & hummus are always among my picks.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizBTwWvEs9_gTznsRMbltFNir5bOOIvhpnDfjpj1pKaJmHJIJ1BXpC1YTbFp8LMQUDgFBZxze7YoRm0uZQmvU3WVh3XyebRtGOwV2JzmJbChW-xQxFbs1e7KkTwKBg5vluCbPFOPiHMQE/s1600/IMG_3856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizBTwWvEs9_gTznsRMbltFNir5bOOIvhpnDfjpj1pKaJmHJIJ1BXpC1YTbFp8LMQUDgFBZxze7YoRm0uZQmvU3WVh3XyebRtGOwV2JzmJbChW-xQxFbs1e7KkTwKBg5vluCbPFOPiHMQE/s400/IMG_3856.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Tino's Greek Cafe</td></tr>
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</h3>
<h3>
<a href="http://torchystacos.com/">Torchy's Tacos</a></h3>
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4301 William Cannon, Monday - Thursday 7 am - 10 pm, Friday 7 am - 11 pm, Saturday 8 am - 11 pm, Sunday 8 am - 10 pm</h4>
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Killer queso, inventive tacos & fried deep fried chocolate chips cookies. Bonus: real sugar sodas from <a href="http://maineroot.com/">Maine Root</a>. There's lots of seating, but be prepared...it will be packed if you go around standard meal times. Try whatever the taco of the month is. The Scarecrow, a frequent October pick, is my favorite taco. Ever.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0-n2FbO5m6SXx8QRiihF2i6bYRxRU_WTN4n_AJ7lAS9nyl4SKoqKRMABg0uiWVqG49024K7kZZosl1FOf7cjD2HjgL3M5Y1eUzTB1wNYKp6qxksAXKm-4eBaGsNFP0zEdKe5jFBSiYE/s1600/IMG_7712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0-n2FbO5m6SXx8QRiihF2i6bYRxRU_WTN4n_AJ7lAS9nyl4SKoqKRMABg0uiWVqG49024K7kZZosl1FOf7cjD2HjgL3M5Y1eUzTB1wNYKp6qxksAXKm-4eBaGsNFP0zEdKe5jFBSiYE/s400/IMG_7712.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Torchy's Tacos</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.thicketaustin.com/">Thicket Food Trailer Park</a></h3>
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<div style="font-size: medium;">
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<b>7800 S. 1st Street, Monday - Sunday, 7am - 9pm</b></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">In a shady little oasis sits Thicket, a fun food trailer park just off of South 1st & Dittmar. There are several stellar food trailers, including Granny's Kitchen, specializing in comfort food that will warm your belly & your heart. Try their Chicken & Dumplings, with a side of mac & cheese & it'll definitely take you back to dinners at your grandparents house. Their is an amazingly delicious variety of grilled cheese sandwiches at Grilled Chi & you have to try a drink for the coolest trailer around, Level Up. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRw4StLZZOh41AszhCsIZKBq-8xiAWr5hmbVV4rUajoEfEP8RkRn4KQJaMZwzxzcuw0wrwugOqlEiImOOXB5KON4pgg6rlQHmIQOPY1P6qDFsO7O0qbyRMzCtiFn93EDZjkQD7dpQj2gM/s1600/IMG_0455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRw4StLZZOh41AszhCsIZKBq-8xiAWr5hmbVV4rUajoEfEP8RkRn4KQJaMZwzxzcuw0wrwugOqlEiImOOXB5KON4pgg6rlQHmIQOPY1P6qDFsO7O0qbyRMzCtiFn93EDZjkQD7dpQj2gM/s400/IMG_0455.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled Chi at Thicket</td></tr>
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<a href="http://thundercloud.com/">ThunderCloud Subs</a></h3>
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3601 William Cannon, Monday - Friday 10:30 am - 9 pm, Saturday/Sunday 11 am - 9 pm</h4>
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1807 Slaughter Lane, Monday - Friday 10:30 am - 9 pm, Saturday 10:30 am - 9 pm, Sunday 11 am - 8:30 pm</h4>
<h3>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;">
True Original Austin, ThunderCloud Subs, embraces Austin weird, friendly service & boasts a large list of above average sandwiches that are always fresh. Thundercloud is one of my husband Andrew's favorite go-tos for a quick meal. Say yes to Thunder Sauce.</div>
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<h3>
<a href="http://www.pho-natic.com/">PhoNatic</a></h3>
<h4>
9900 S IH 35 (Southpark Meadows), Monday - Sunday 11 am - 9 pm</h4>
<h3>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;">
Tasty Vietnamese fare including build-your-own Pho, vegetarian goodies & a wide variety of drink choices. Try the bahn mi sliders as an appetizer to share or a light lunch. The Vietnamese coffee and The '403' with shrimp, wontons, bok choy & egg noodles are among my favorites.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSCjRaB32Ot8C5044Fcj2wyN1G5d_jKiJ8T1LtMAZ6swUH0Hpu_KXPrRo0ih6HBYYtE7338brzVVe9G1esZDKpPd7xuoW33QbrvWL6XzOJ8xyNNTgY3fDVj1TXbpZLZWt2ItPEzcc7uoM/s640/blogger-image--890751174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSCjRaB32Ot8C5044Fcj2wyN1G5d_jKiJ8T1LtMAZ6swUH0Hpu_KXPrRo0ih6HBYYtE7338brzVVe9G1esZDKpPd7xuoW33QbrvWL6XzOJ8xyNNTgY3fDVj1TXbpZLZWt2ItPEzcc7uoM/s640/blogger-image--890751174.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PhoNatic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
<a href="http://www.bamboobistroonline.com/index.html">Bamboo Bistro</a></h3>
<h4>
6818 Westgate, Monday - Sunday 10:30 am - 10:30 pm</h4>
<h3>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;">
Dependable Asian food available for delivery, dine-in or drive-thru. The service is always friendly & quick & their Cantonese Crispy Noodles are the perfect comfort food. They also make a killer General Tso's chicken & my trip is never complete without getting an order of Crab Won Tons.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdtosqhhGIO_9Qn2jOFNwbi1DatT4WB8GFtT9k61D2vEq1U_uSn-f8L8FkxJ2bce9P7BmqCtdtcaOr_tzrn1172e5O0b8Zbh3r8o9yXT4bRzLRdc1Q-MoS5AULPoxoVa4NwsezAkg1Bc/s1600/IMG_0832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdtosqhhGIO_9Qn2jOFNwbi1DatT4WB8GFtT9k61D2vEq1U_uSn-f8L8FkxJ2bce9P7BmqCtdtcaOr_tzrn1172e5O0b8Zbh3r8o9yXT4bRzLRdc1Q-MoS5AULPoxoVa4NwsezAkg1Bc/s400/IMG_0832.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Bamboo Bistro</td></tr>
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</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<a href="http://www.greenmesquite.net/">Green Mesquite</a></h3>
<h4>
9900 S IH 35 (Southpark Meadows), Sunday - Thursday, 11 am - 9 pm, Friday/Saturday 11 am - 10 pm</h4>
<h3>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;">
Traditional Texas BBQ, Southern favorites & daily specials. The meat is good & the sides are tasty.<br />
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</h3>
<h3>
<a href="http://www.brooklynpie.com/">Brooklyn Pie Company</a></h3>
<h4>
9500 S IH 35 (Southpark Meadows), Monday - Wednesday 11 am - 10 pm, Thursday - Saturday 11 am - 11 pm, Sunday 12 pm - 10 pm</h4>
<h3>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;">
Delicious pizzas, calzones, salads & more made with natural & preservative-free ingredients. Available for delivery, carry out or dine-in, but their seating is very limited.</div>
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<h3>
<div style="font-size: medium;">
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<h3>
<a href="https://www.rosascafe.com/">Rosa's Cafe</a></h3>
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</h3>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
509 W. Slaughter Lane, Sunday - Thursday 10:30 am - 11:00 pm, Friday - Saturday 10:30 am - 12 am</h4>
<div>
I am pretty biased, as Rosa's is a West Texas staple that kept me sustained throughout most of my college years at Texas Tech, but they are a Texas-based chain, so I'm mentioning it. Solid, stand Tex-Mex dishes done quick, & more importantly, drive-thru friendly. Their fajita family plate, guacamole & fresh tortillas are among my go-tos. If you're looking for an enchilada, a quick queso fix or a good Taco Tuesday deal, Rosa's is your new friend. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOm1Yw3PQuLEExcS6-PqCCNNcz6rO9fmgOEMqt8iQsTcZNCARRyoKh9hcjMddZwfxZ59P9cf_UKfdWAfpH7H5w-ZiYbFtqA_Rdde8mlAr7BpNJ6fWwhLVbYD8xeUfRbNbtiZ1dGzk_qQ/s640/blogger-image--11378971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOm1Yw3PQuLEExcS6-PqCCNNcz6rO9fmgOEMqt8iQsTcZNCARRyoKh9hcjMddZwfxZ59P9cf_UKfdWAfpH7H5w-ZiYbFtqA_Rdde8mlAr7BpNJ6fWwhLVbYD8xeUfRbNbtiZ1dGzk_qQ/s640/blogger-image--11378971.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosa's Cafe</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.valentinastexmexbbq.com/">Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ</a></h3>
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<div>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;">
<b>11500 Manchaca Rd., Monday - Sunday, 8am - Sold Out</b><br />
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Famous for good reason. Valentina's recently moved down to my neighborhood & we could not be more elated. A hybrid of two Texas traditions done right. I recommend the Ultimate Bean & Cheese, for a taco that's filled with BBQ, beans, cheese & salsa. It will leave you satisfied for hours. Also, always order the guac, because...guac! Be sure to get there early, as the secret is out about just how good Valentina's is.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5NB8yxZRT_i2lpEBmzorU8XBKMW0E0P8I4hvnmG0PhAKHGo8KLRlU3_qV1YfT4wsY-f3uCIb594vdJZRct0r4DyLAkwFHjSKMrMUka7Bd3SqSJ93GJSxrZP1aki8EaLfl2Il1qSMOTI/s1600/IMG_7398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5NB8yxZRT_i2lpEBmzorU8XBKMW0E0P8I4hvnmG0PhAKHGo8KLRlU3_qV1YfT4wsY-f3uCIb594vdJZRct0r4DyLAkwFHjSKMrMUka7Bd3SqSJ93GJSxrZP1aki8EaLfl2Il1qSMOTI/s400/IMG_7398.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ</td></tr>
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<h2>
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</h2>
<h2>
Dinner</h2>
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<a href="http://aviatorpizza.com/austin/index.html">Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse</a></h3>
<div>
<b>6501 S. Congress Ave., Sunday - Thursday, 11am - 9:30pm, Friday & Saturday, 11am - 11pm</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Aviator is new to the deep South Austin scene, and it is worth checking out. Their pizzas are fresh, with a nice thick crust & a long list of fun topping combos. We love the South Austin, with prosciutto, arugula, goat cheese & honey. It's a tasty twist on a classic. Also be sure to try the hearty salads, calzones & the cinnamon pecan dessert. And don't forget about the beers & wines on-tap.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0tdtEIxWq_6w_mO-GIUyrMP3rU9tc8tEa_eNG0vtQIC8HCFqTk-9itAgzeENCs5jkHZRPIUyQ7t1cB1_cO7TY9Q6er7g8u7OSJ3dX9g51UpCPOCB0uAv6b1YGJ_32kTl0f8kqgTpChg/s1600/IMG_0606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0tdtEIxWq_6w_mO-GIUyrMP3rU9tc8tEa_eNG0vtQIC8HCFqTk-9itAgzeENCs5jkHZRPIUyQ7t1cB1_cO7TY9Q6er7g8u7OSJ3dX9g51UpCPOCB0uAv6b1YGJ_32kTl0f8kqgTpChg/s640/IMG_0606.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
<h3>
<a href="http://www.floresmexican.com/home.aspx">Flores</a></h3>
<h4>
4625 William Cannon, Monday - Thursday 11 am - 10 pm, Friday 11 am - 12 am, Saturday 9 am - 11 pm, Sunday 9 am - 10 pm</h4>
<div>
An old favorite, Flores is great for happy hour margaritas & queso, or an easy meal out with the family. Their William Cannon location is nice & new, with rustic decor touches, plenty of seating, with a large bar & even a playground for the kiddos. I love their combo plates & the La Flor Margarita, with a splash of orange juice & a cherry on top.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoETNF8WjDH1YDTeW8gGu__mO_znevdhMCymVYgvEGbQs-wZsgvPBOk2wBxy7d2PyDf33lsGR_TEANilfoyxKMviDniAte2WRy7JQOv-6B6JkKcoEUnZV0pY6mAvK4i5tOF2fieAScCE/s640/blogger-image-1715088001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoETNF8WjDH1YDTeW8gGu__mO_znevdhMCymVYgvEGbQs-wZsgvPBOk2wBxy7d2PyDf33lsGR_TEANilfoyxKMviDniAte2WRy7JQOv-6B6JkKcoEUnZV0pY6mAvK4i5tOF2fieAScCE/s640/blogger-image-1715088001.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flores Mexican Restaurant</td></tr>
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</div>
</h3>
<h3>
<a href="http://www.haohaoaustin.com/Homepage.html">Hao Hao</a></h3>
<h4>
1901 W William Cannon, Tuesday - Friday 11 am - 2:30 pm, 5 pm - 9:30 pm, Saturday 12 pm - 9:30 pm, Sunday 12 pm - 9 pm</h4>
<div>
All of your standards, plus an extensive list of veggie options, Hao Hao has been a Mullins family favorite for years. The service is friendly, and their delivery is quick.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_JLjsOgPhLdVnH2jaRLvdhnUPdP0jKMZq7qEZ8dKHU7A30vHCXI5gCl-hFKJ_7Orp493v4Kp9k0xfIhXRzDKZDGNN2CngXbQi7DmgDuhsNR9FIZZuJkBpRUfRlTl05hgWR7unt3W9GY/s1600/IMG_3736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_JLjsOgPhLdVnH2jaRLvdhnUPdP0jKMZq7qEZ8dKHU7A30vHCXI5gCl-hFKJ_7Orp493v4Kp9k0xfIhXRzDKZDGNN2CngXbQi7DmgDuhsNR9FIZZuJkBpRUfRlTl05hgWR7unt3W9GY/s400/IMG_3736.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Hao Hao</td></tr>
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</h3>
<h3>
<a href="http://mandolasmarket.com/">Mandola's Italian Market</a></h3>
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<div>
4301 William Cannon (Arbor Trails) 11 am - 9 pm daily<br />
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<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">A wide selection of pastas, thin-crust pizzas, small bites, desserts & coffees. They have two large dining areas, a small market full of Italian goods & bocce ball on the patio. Try the parma pizza, calamari & zucchini fritti for quick bite, or the lemon ricotta cookies with a fresh coffee for dessert.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67AcSny8m5S9Dky5amG8vxgKwDFta8xIYXBcr2YbDTII0yF9f8wfQUjPqjBKHBBfoLN9ZAMSNqz_sXXTnGGcQFGFzcCwpgjIEFNCA3WlyhYj8VV-W62_aFt-yaAZ73NP3TMbyqf7v5ks/s640/blogger-image--159354597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67AcSny8m5S9Dky5amG8vxgKwDFta8xIYXBcr2YbDTII0yF9f8wfQUjPqjBKHBBfoLN9ZAMSNqz_sXXTnGGcQFGFzcCwpgjIEFNCA3WlyhYj8VV-W62_aFt-yaAZ73NP3TMbyqf7v5ks/s400/blogger-image--159354597.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Mandola's Italian Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBeZYjBEEAlAzL9V7uTQ4KVrL_3KB_06XeKjIPa7f5aNpDXArihFPtyBoN8wk26q2tCi2JlOK_xPlFNgcQ9BuZmtDbMMpB05CkGn02X4MNp6ZYv4LvBzI5YppKrZrlWGo_hdbzbXyNm50/s1600/IMG_4191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBeZYjBEEAlAzL9V7uTQ4KVrL_3KB_06XeKjIPa7f5aNpDXArihFPtyBoN8wk26q2tCi2JlOK_xPlFNgcQ9BuZmtDbMMpB05CkGn02X4MNp6ZYv4LvBzI5YppKrZrlWGo_hdbzbXyNm50/s320/IMG_4191.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Mandola's Italian Market</td></tr>
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<h3>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Independence-Fine-Foods/563394570372167">Independence Fine Foods</a></h3>
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1807 Slaughter Lane, Monday - Saturday 7 am - 8:30 pm</h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">A variety of salads, soups, desserts, coffees & other offerings available from the deli counter as well as a rotating carving-station meal for evening service. Their meats are locally sourced & as your taste buds will confirm, everything is made fresh. Sandwiches, burgers & breakfast options served daily. Try the juicy burger with truffle fries or anything from the bakery case.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdNkVDvTZV2xL8-Q4W5ELXtffaaQH28-_B1I01XJopu4a1EZ_RoClIXbmJg5OT0-uHdp1YfzZK-mAv3iORURFkgBE_HNGZAMcTEmR0jMEdv95c3HvvkVxJ5KuXvXQ76wPnoZoy9SOua8/s1600/IMG_3871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdNkVDvTZV2xL8-Q4W5ELXtffaaQH28-_B1I01XJopu4a1EZ_RoClIXbmJg5OT0-uHdp1YfzZK-mAv3iORURFkgBE_HNGZAMcTEmR0jMEdv95c3HvvkVxJ5KuXvXQ76wPnoZoy9SOua8/s400/IMG_3871.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Independence Fine Foods</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.amayastacovillage.com/">Amaya's Taco Village</a></h3>
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9900 S IH 35 (Southpark Meadows) </h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Tex-mex usuals, but the crispy beef tacos are the stand-out on the menu. Sometimes I get enchiladas too, but I always have a taco. <u>Always</u>. Puffy, hearty corn tortillas take these old favorites to a new level.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Amaya's Taco Village</td></tr>
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<a href="http://via313.com/">Via 313</a></h3>
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<b>6705 Hwy. 290, Sunday - Thursday, 11 am - 10 pm, Friday - Saturday, 11 am - 11 pm</b></div>
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Detroit style pizza that is one of our favorites in town. Large square slices with crispy, cheesy edges & sauce on top, these unique slices are perfection every time. I have a soft spot for the Rocket, with Soppresatta, Arugula & Shaved Parm, but I also love a good slice of The Stooges, bar style (thin, crispy crust) with Artichokes, Spinach, Shallots & Parm Crisps. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmiUMEsnmygpTuuIRTEUYUFqTWhHUUMPAd12Dx-FeC1QnGbjOeGSprgzKhZu9fowDFdqK8Fe8E_eOf4JGlhSz4votufW7aKqY4BBZMojdS0L2jNECYnsaR-noL1YTiAKBvTusjLjNg0k/s1600/IMG_3660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmiUMEsnmygpTuuIRTEUYUFqTWhHUUMPAd12Dx-FeC1QnGbjOeGSprgzKhZu9fowDFdqK8Fe8E_eOf4JGlhSz4votufW7aKqY4BBZMojdS0L2jNECYnsaR-noL1YTiAKBvTusjLjNg0k/s400/IMG_3660.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Via 313</td></tr>
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HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-23570255676884832232017-01-30T16:52:00.000-06:002017-10-06T10:52:42.510-05:00Birthday Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjutwlkTESEng_vRe1hdggEj8ar2nAD_IBBK1_NHmQM9WB0gRdUso_uUTlYJiN2_dJo_CJNlbl4VZoBIQKuc8Tpr7OyO_A5GE1zCH038JCaMjVBibIoSb3eTGNODyoWIKoM33JHU3MA5Vc/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjutwlkTESEng_vRe1hdggEj8ar2nAD_IBBK1_NHmQM9WB0gRdUso_uUTlYJiN2_dJo_CJNlbl4VZoBIQKuc8Tpr7OyO_A5GE1zCH038JCaMjVBibIoSb3eTGNODyoWIKoM33JHU3MA5Vc/s640/IMG_0343.JPG" width="554" /></a></div>
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Cake is always a good idea. Always.</div>
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This Sunday was my wonderful mother in-law Colleen's birthday. We celebrated by heading up to Round Rock to celebrate at Andrew's sister Katie's house. Katie made a delicious batch of Green Chili Enchiladas & asked me to make the cake! I haven't made a layered cake in a while & wanted to add a little zing to the normal cream cheese frosting, so I came up with this recipe.</div>
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It's got a little zing from the lemon zest, but it's not too tart & perfect for those of us (Me!) who can't handle much sour. Give it a try & let me know what you think.</div>
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Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting</h2>
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8oz. Cream Cheese, softened</div>
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1/2 cup (1 stick) Butter, softened</div>
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Zest from 1 medium Lemon, organic</div>
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1 lb. Powdered Sugar, sifted</div>
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1 teaspoon Vanilla</div>
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Whip Cream Cheese, Butter and Lemon Zest together until well combined. Working in batches, mix in Powdered Sugar. Add in Vanilla and mix until fluffy. Use on your favorite cookies or cake. </div>
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HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-1652723007915018572016-12-31T01:58:00.000-06:002016-12-31T01:58:06.896-06:00Top 5 Posts of 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As 2016 comes to a close, it's always fun to look back on the year & see what posts were favorites. Here's a list of the top 5 posts from the year. Here's to hoping 2017 is even more delicious!</div>
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In no particular order...</div>
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<a href="http://www.homemadeaustin.com/2016/02/deep-south-austin-eats-2016-afba-city.html">1. Deep South Austin Eats: 2016 AFBA City Guide</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwuVhDH6dHScKdbH_lp1vTUCJuo_2-uGztJf-NRFRHoKRF5vic4-IDQ0Snjy16ojN41bj7sTqnAC28XE-rVAzomoCqb9PQnhOQfAVsAGsIPPZG79B2fgAFcKJ8Na6wMomVb8AFjVEK7Y/s1600/IMG_2589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwuVhDH6dHScKdbH_lp1vTUCJuo_2-uGztJf-NRFRHoKRF5vic4-IDQ0Snjy16ojN41bj7sTqnAC28XE-rVAzomoCqb9PQnhOQfAVsAGsIPPZG79B2fgAFcKJ8Na6wMomVb8AFjVEK7Y/s640/IMG_2589.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homemadeaustin.com/2016/03/how-to-put-in-new-lawn.html">2. How to Put in a New Lawn</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmXGkJj7Ee817l5orElC94y9WWn_LPYPpM4ehHqzlZ36xN5vM9HOUTjqYa9Zy-KjOkDNWEf0uON3tl1Ak7-0guL4KwWzl_ehdBuuPofwhGZXe97I-2BE6LALsNUPUjmlVQTEuL9KVld8/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmXGkJj7Ee817l5orElC94y9WWn_LPYPpM4ehHqzlZ36xN5vM9HOUTjqYa9Zy-KjOkDNWEf0uON3tl1Ak7-0guL4KwWzl_ehdBuuPofwhGZXe97I-2BE6LALsNUPUjmlVQTEuL9KVld8/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homemadeaustin.com/2016/06/pecan-cookies-with-oats-coconut.html">3. Pecan Cookies with Oats & Coconut</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdiSWJqyzpEulOq0VM8ggixHtKDgUuKbIyz143NSpssiOqVKH5FRSvpK3FEJd2Uk3rP4S3Y88NnkR2tZrF8UmleL3porEyEkzn3C8FKF1tarcELWgP_l9e4jW2OAquYJubP22nqNB-KGo/s1600/IMG_7355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdiSWJqyzpEulOq0VM8ggixHtKDgUuKbIyz143NSpssiOqVKH5FRSvpK3FEJd2Uk3rP4S3Y88NnkR2tZrF8UmleL3porEyEkzn3C8FKF1tarcELWgP_l9e4jW2OAquYJubP22nqNB-KGo/s640/IMG_7355.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homemadeaustin.com/2016/08/smores-drop-scones-with-kerbey-lane-mix.html">4. S'mores Drop Scones with Kerbey Lane Mix</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqTAgMJmzNcddKsOCHT6j_DddgH5fv-SOzLb3CER48nlgYY3TsFOODzZxeBP3sjG9L5RqFaP1yew4eSVNQHlCf3lMnsSOSJaBABbdLe_xuH2LPWIzi141EaaQ-wnjI3MD91Lwtn-b9zs/s1600/blogger-image-1333012617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqTAgMJmzNcddKsOCHT6j_DddgH5fv-SOzLb3CER48nlgYY3TsFOODzZxeBP3sjG9L5RqFaP1yew4eSVNQHlCf3lMnsSOSJaBABbdLe_xuH2LPWIzi141EaaQ-wnjI3MD91Lwtn-b9zs/s640/blogger-image-1333012617.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homemadeaustin.com/2016/01/easy-citrus-almond-green-beans.html">5. Citrus Almond Green Beans</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJKLTXk4wt8peGQLBWSPrm5KF4joh26j0K4b42vKZZoG35-O6vG_IeH0qmxFODoMHWcs9EvuhS-w5BboRxD8cdD7I-DPHKTQ8TEFLsbvD7VqhBmEFhPUaveaxoZ__Jw9xY6kO2vgQ1Zsg/s1600/blogger-image--861246282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJKLTXk4wt8peGQLBWSPrm5KF4joh26j0K4b42vKZZoG35-O6vG_IeH0qmxFODoMHWcs9EvuhS-w5BboRxD8cdD7I-DPHKTQ8TEFLsbvD7VqhBmEFhPUaveaxoZ__Jw9xY6kO2vgQ1Zsg/s640/blogger-image--861246282.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-9916089759767917022016-12-29T14:04:00.000-06:002016-12-30T14:48:33.976-06:00Merry, merry 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Merry Christmas! Here's a little peak into how the holiday went for us.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTz9bdRaI6ktCGA8mMLZl5Tcew24xt-Uf3bl0snfXN8P4NxbSBpZ9i5qtvXwne2n5ZJbanL89MqO-WwcoOubdmY-OJjDnCPWDwx1mnaFOpHOvRp5pukUzV5XHZIGkEi5-3Z_DHUa7WjP0/s1600/IMG_9788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTz9bdRaI6ktCGA8mMLZl5Tcew24xt-Uf3bl0snfXN8P4NxbSBpZ9i5qtvXwne2n5ZJbanL89MqO-WwcoOubdmY-OJjDnCPWDwx1mnaFOpHOvRp5pukUzV5XHZIGkEi5-3Z_DHUa7WjP0/s640/IMG_9788.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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It's been a little crazy around here, as I'm sure most of you can agree, the holiday season can be hectic! It also seems like both Andrew & I have had less time off this year, which I think is making everything feel just a little more nuts.</div>
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But, we've had a great Christmas & I'm excited about heading back out to West Texas to celebrate a little more this weekend. Here's a little bit of the food & fun we've been up to...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwGXHckephR0aETi4ZNh48HHZzjZDrKNQ95X35EZsz9lZlUssHX3qJBsDhjRMmj4N2jhm53OATN4tF86zEvk8wa29LVSVc6aKOxd9twDETJafTn2YhDGigHpL-VUMl7U9TFYqcwhG6Oo/s1600/IMG_9795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwGXHckephR0aETi4ZNh48HHZzjZDrKNQ95X35EZsz9lZlUssHX3qJBsDhjRMmj4N2jhm53OATN4tF86zEvk8wa29LVSVc6aKOxd9twDETJafTn2YhDGigHpL-VUMl7U9TFYqcwhG6Oo/s640/IMG_9795.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Indulging in a little <a href="http://via313.com/">Via 313</a> with friends to start things off right!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-c-ZJEpGEXUjbJAn47zvCfJ-C2vjOIDf7Yp-4DhEVK6yfLQmFD6TSMchg-E3aPy79c52eEXj7qghtI8aGja8a7YrP_Rs0J2CeJq_7U4F54QyZ13H794MjdeLmnSORlqq1heuqR_tGCw/s1600/IMG_6258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-c-ZJEpGEXUjbJAn47zvCfJ-C2vjOIDf7Yp-4DhEVK6yfLQmFD6TSMchg-E3aPy79c52eEXj7qghtI8aGja8a7YrP_Rs0J2CeJq_7U4F54QyZ13H794MjdeLmnSORlqq1heuqR_tGCw/s640/IMG_6258.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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We also took every opportunity to drive around looking at lights. This house in the Barton Hills neighborhood was my favorite. So magical...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxw_45NK9-kBrJV074iQlmjIamJXG3JTtL9u8B1J9jJIbZim_ouBmiLyGaFrRzpHu9rWMYH2M_kFycLgvzJsC-ypQ2ATjs8fK6Zgullsk6vs1sXoHCJDnGFS1lcQUy6fGUHpsMDxW7M4/s1600/IMG_6302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxw_45NK9-kBrJV074iQlmjIamJXG3JTtL9u8B1J9jJIbZim_ouBmiLyGaFrRzpHu9rWMYH2M_kFycLgvzJsC-ypQ2ATjs8fK6Zgullsk6vs1sXoHCJDnGFS1lcQUy6fGUHpsMDxW7M4/s640/IMG_6302.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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We made sure our tree was in tip, top shape.</div>
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And had several cups of hot cocoa.</div>
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We trimmed the presents with care.</div>
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And got fun treats from office friends. These cute reindeer cookies were made by my super fly co-worker Coral!</div>
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I spent some time at my favorite crafty spot in Austin, <a href="http://www.thepapercraftpantry.com/">Paper Craft Pantry</a>, planning my vision for an awesome, productive 2017.</div>
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I got some fun things for Andrew, & he got me cool i-phone gadgets, wrapped up with self esteem boosting packaging. I love a good sticker. :)</div>
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I traveled out West, to see my family, make some Christmas candy & bake up my Mom's famous sugar cookies with my sister Brandi. You can grab the recipe <a href="http://www.homemadeaustin.com/2016/11/diy-decorate-it-yourself-sugar-cookies.html">here</a>. They're soft & fluffy & remind me of home in the best possible way. </div>
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Our family also kept up the Christmas Eve tradition of presents, all you can eat snacks & games. This year, we played dominoes.</div>
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And of course, Christmas Day was spent at my grandmothers, where the game is always spades. Dad & I lost in the final round of the tournament. It was a great day.</div>
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This year, Andrew stayed in Austin, so he could attend his family's Christmas Eve party. They always have a theme for the gift exchange & this year was recycle. Isn't that a fun idea to have a new theme every year? I love it. </div>
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Nothing could be new & Andrew ended up with the beautiful paintings that were made by his cousin Lucas' uncle. They are awesome & I can't wait to hang them up. </div>
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I hope your year was wonderful Here's to more love, joy & HOPE in 2017!</div>
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-849280698365258322016-12-23T08:40:00.000-06:002016-12-30T08:42:08.228-06:00Boho Trimmings: Making Your Presents Pop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy almost Christmas! Today, I'm sharing a couple of quick & easy wrapping ideas that'll give your packages some fun, boho flair.</div>
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When it comes to getting presents ready, Andrew & I like to take a team approach. He often wraps the gifts, then I take over & add the fun stuff, bows, feathers, ornaments & just about anything else I can think of & figure out how to secure to the box.</div>
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This year, I decided to buy a few color coordinated papers from Target, in black, white, gold & a little blush pink. I love that they are a little modern, and the colors pair well with any bright trimmings I have around the house. The best part though, is that I can use all of these throughout the year, not just at holiday time!</div>
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This year, instead of the 'curling' ribbon or tulle I often use, I decided to mix it up & go for something more soft & bohemian. I've been really getting into the eclectic, boho home style & thought that making my gifts look a little more in line with the style would be really fun.</div>
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And, I was able to use things that I had hanging out in my craft room. It's always a plus when I don't have to buy anything new! I grabbed a bunch of yarn, feathers & a few ribbons from my closet & got to work. Below are my favorite ideas.</div>
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1. Feathers</h3>
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I keep a big box of feathers, in a variety of sizes, textures & colors on hand at all times in my craft room. They're pretty versatile & can dress just about anything up. This is the first year I've used feathers on my Christmas packages & I really love they way they look!</div>
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Take some ribbon, yarn or other trimming, wrap it around your present & then secure it with a bow or even just a knot like in the first picture of this post. Tuck in a few feathers & you've got a quick, easy & pretty look. </div>
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2. Yarn, all of it!</h3>
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For alot of these packages, I got really into braiding yarn ropes. They are fun & just take a few minutes, but I think they bring alot of impact to the packages. In my yarn stash, I found a fun cream & gold, very textured yarn that I ended up using in most of the braids because I think it added a glittery punch. </div>
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For some presents, I simply wrapped the yarn braid around the box & tied it in a knot, though you can also tie smaller braids into a bow, like the last photo. I do really love the look in the middle though, which was done by secure a wider gold ribbon to the package first, then I tied the yarn braid on top to create a layered effect.</div>
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-64307576875128908222016-12-15T09:23:00.000-06:002016-12-30T16:49:19.481-06:00Celebrating in Alpine, TX<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last Friday, my sister Brandi graduated with her Master's Degree in Education from Sul Ross State University. And on Saturday, she turned 30.</div>
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After spending the day before in Marfa, Andrew & I joined my sister, Dad & the rest of family to celebrate these two very special days. Because we hadn't been to Alpine before, we decided to spend Friday night at the <a href="http://themaverickinn.com/">Maverick Inn</a>, and Saturday at the <a href="http://thehollandhoteltexas.com/">Holland</a>. Both were unique & cozy; I'm so glad we decided to divide it up.</div>
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We started off by checking into the rustic <a href="http://themaverickinn.com/">Maverick Inn</a>. It's a smaller hotel, with fun rustic-style furniture, large clean rooms, a great bathroom & a sweet neon sign. Because it's only got a few rooms, we were able to pull our car right up to the front door to park, which meant I got to spend a few extra minutes soaking in the garden tub before having to get ready for Brandi's graduation.</div>
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Brandi graduated!</div>
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We celebrated her graduation with pizza & pasta at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GuzziUp/">Guzzi Up</a>, a fun, local place with tasty fare. I had the ravioli & a slice of Andrew's pepperoni pizza & both were great. </div>
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Though it's one of the larger towns in the area, Alpine has alot of small town charm. There is an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants & bars with a variety of local hand-made art & pottery. </div>
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We had an early lunch at <a href="https://www.reata.net/alpine/">Reata</a>, a sweet little restaurant with delicious dishes. I had a salad filled with Texas goat cheese, pecans from San Saba & a tasty, creamy dressing that kept me going back for bite after bite.</div>
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After lunch, we walked around popping into the galleries & shops, & of course, I had to grab a cup of coffee. Just around the corner from the restaurant was <a href="http://cedarcoffeesupply.com/">Cedar Coffee Supply</a>, which was modern, friendly & made an amazing latte.</div>
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After a little shopping, we stopped in at the <a href="http://saddleclubalpine.com/">Saddle Club</a> to celebrate Brandi's 30th birthday. The Saddle Club was a really cute, fun place to stop in for a few drinks & fun conversation. </div>
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Happy 30th Brandi!</div>
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We walked down the street & checked into our hotel for the evening, the <a href="http://thehollandhoteltexas.com/">Holland Hotel</a>. This boutique hotel has alot of vintage charm & old West decor. It was a really fun place to stay.<br />
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After settling in, we headed over to <a href="http://www.bigbendbrewing.com/">Big Bend Brewing Company</a>, for a tour & tasting. The wide variety of beers were flavorful & the tour was really interesting. They even have a nice patio, with fire pits were you can enjoy your brew. </div>
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After taking in some local Mexican food & enjoying the nightlife at Railroad Blues (definitely recommend!) to round out the day, we slept in & grabbed a really good cup of coffee at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PlaineCoffee/">Plaine Coffee</a> the next day, before heading back to Austin.</div>
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HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-39497052361226955552016-12-13T14:02:00.000-06:002016-12-19T14:03:48.100-06:005 Foodie Stocking Stuffers<br />How's your holiday shopping going? I feel like December has come on fast & furious this year, but I think I'm juuuuust about done with all of my gifts. Something I always love hunting for, though I often wait until the last minute, is stocking stuffers.<div>
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I love finding lots of little things that fit the personalities of friends & family. Today, I compiled a few items that are perfect for the food lovers in your life. What's your favorite item to tuck into stockings?</div>
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1. Easy custom tee</h3>
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With a set of old-school, iron-on felt letters from the craft store, a clothing iron & a plain colored tee, you can make a gift that is totally personalized. 'Pizza is for Lovers,' 'Just add Sprinkles,' 'Avocado on Everything,' possibilities = endless. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0yaSs6suOaK7qh0y2uE_4bmBv-GsaIkr5M3_nGxJN9X3_gik2OYsh34STZShMCiaC3gGFwyA8yBRqUwPOGNuHWil38WYVv9iifDQW_xdlyykf3gPQBQOpJ3JzDMcIR3_97bslX7AlO4/s1600/IMG_9817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0yaSs6suOaK7qh0y2uE_4bmBv-GsaIkr5M3_nGxJN9X3_gik2OYsh34STZShMCiaC3gGFwyA8yBRqUwPOGNuHWil38WYVv9iifDQW_xdlyykf3gPQBQOpJ3JzDMcIR3_97bslX7AlO4/s640/IMG_9817.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iron-On Felt Letters can be found at Michaels, JoAnn or Hobby Lobby<br /></td></tr>
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2. Keychain joy</h3>
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Wear your love on your keys. I adore this candy-colored, gold crusted (literally, ha!) pizza slice keyring. I may or may not have picked up one for myself on my last Target run.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NpNymioWx-h6UMooYipZzjsqzr5udN98yN5iI-0iec9lSTQY4-rcPuVkcWhLRJt2E2rAOCvow1bgn6oAr6MnaKEYFCuMpasIBRRRTyMdrkJ6vLEmVwLoxcx_YnAhbLFLQs9M1zzM7wM/s1600/keychain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NpNymioWx-h6UMooYipZzjsqzr5udN98yN5iI-0iec9lSTQY4-rcPuVkcWhLRJt2E2rAOCvow1bgn6oAr6MnaKEYFCuMpasIBRRRTyMdrkJ6vLEmVwLoxcx_YnAhbLFLQs9M1zzM7wM/s640/keychain.JPG" width="560" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Pizza Keychain, <a href="http://www.target.com/p/women-s-lightly-stuffed-pu-key-chains-pizza-slice-multi-combo/-/A-51502562">Target $5.99</a><br /></td></tr>
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3. Perfect for anyone </h3>
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Any art from <a href="http://www.starlamichelle.com/">Starla Michelle</a> makes for a wonderful gift, but the monogram mugs from this year's Anthropologie collection are especially pretty. Great for office mornings and lazy Sundays. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPJWwpglY9bMFxgJl0nxuJtMXeEWSEhgvaUDi249BmJmCVIzIDLWRiMMSIV9-K1j940nf7JE56Xb4sMHEBzt3vYJG0QXxWcYNXuoaYExeAqrcQRYkneD6PKzLvmBj7z5U9lF_Tx3RSzk/s1600/cups.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPJWwpglY9bMFxgJl0nxuJtMXeEWSEhgvaUDi249BmJmCVIzIDLWRiMMSIV9-K1j940nf7JE56Xb4sMHEBzt3vYJG0QXxWcYNXuoaYExeAqrcQRYkneD6PKzLvmBj7z5U9lF_Tx3RSzk/s640/cups.JPG" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starla Michelle Petal Pallete Monogram Mug, <a href="https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/petal-palette-monogram-mug2?category=SEARCHRESULTS&color=901">Anthropologie $10.00</a></td></tr>
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4. Ultimate sweet treat</h3>
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<br />I picked up a Crispycake at <a href="http://www.centralmarket.com/">Central Market</a> after a particularly bleh day & my spirits perked right up. Giant, soft marshmallow treats that come with a variety of sweet toppings, what more do you need?<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39X8ONouPEE6iFDihNfKTDO66oDULdLVA3tj0Upytm0HgQ-C1zDadJAJTR_2K_xVpKOeueobI0fwaqf1IY0EVu9nb3RZPELK-ut4d_MltGC1k8AJ_N7BpiI4slQLpHXAVnYpHUFqaGAw/s1600/IMG_9754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39X8ONouPEE6iFDihNfKTDO66oDULdLVA3tj0Upytm0HgQ-C1zDadJAJTR_2K_xVpKOeueobI0fwaqf1IY0EVu9nb3RZPELK-ut4d_MltGC1k8AJ_N7BpiI4slQLpHXAVnYpHUFqaGAw/s640/IMG_9754.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Crispycakes from <a href="https://www.thecrispery.com/">The Crispery</a>, available at all Central Market locations<br /></td></tr>
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5. Start 'em early</h3>
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This tiny, super-cute soft book is perfect for the foodie-in-training who can't quite handle solid foods yet. There are 3-D attached pieces & it's completely machine washable.</div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgti2Zg6TbJon-fw48W1xeZXdRZPRxqHNyMu6fLlT-7TT8sniQgapjkTQzETLJPhQNx1kD4JmaSS2dLZXLUPeSvKiI7BU5Dj8hZOaeU6eXq6rfC-B4fJ39d4LLG1ilfoLd9QBxVmaWGnNY/s1600/book.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="590" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgti2Zg6TbJon-fw48W1xeZXdRZPRxqHNyMu6fLlT-7TT8sniQgapjkTQzETLJPhQNx1kD4JmaSS2dLZXLUPeSvKiI7BU5Dj8hZOaeU6eXq6rfC-B4fJ39d4LLG1ilfoLd9QBxVmaWGnNY/s640/book.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Melissa & Doug Soft Activity Baby Book - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JBJ0C54/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1P44NHRGJ6WIQ&coliid=I11QQCBMJELEL6">Little Chef, Amazon $10.39</a><br /></td></tr>
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HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-17840697962548260402016-12-13T11:07:00.000-06:002016-12-30T12:50:40.366-06:00A chilly trip to Marfa, TX<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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We recently took a trip down to Marfa & I am ready to go back! I hadn't been since I was a kid, going to Girl Scout Camp at Mitre Peak in Ft. Davis, which was always a highlight of the summer. I remember horseback riding, swimming & even repelling during one summer. It was great.</div>
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I don't know why it took me so long to get back that far West, but I assure you, the break is over.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3f-luMBsYR1cmV7sVRlADRYxo-ewlvVuxZUxERC88EHjbAKFDfxQUngw2uCc7AFUdT86PZAXpF1IXn22i4ekRg-6IQxIQ6Y3UdNhbQCPJfTXmzBeeZv6D3GVfzO0786JcdqY0ZU4zl8/s1600/IMG_5710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3f-luMBsYR1cmV7sVRlADRYxo-ewlvVuxZUxERC88EHjbAKFDfxQUngw2uCc7AFUdT86PZAXpF1IXn22i4ekRg-6IQxIQ6Y3UdNhbQCPJfTXmzBeeZv6D3GVfzO0786JcdqY0ZU4zl8/s640/IMG_5710.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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My sister was graduating from Sul Ross University in Alpine last Friday, so we took the opportunity to head down a little early & check out Marfa on Thursday. </div>
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We knew it would be a little chillier than we were used to, but boy were we in for some weather changes. On the drive down, we started running into snow flurries around Ozona & by the time we got to Alpine, we were in full-on winter mode!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_9bBAR916nt07FKMs-kBpmHFALePYovuvpdxpX2-vTFpkGOEYLPyvyimUdWO2aF5oOvIVVM8-2W_-cIttpm_-2F_WQalp92E-GtXKAZvq1AW6LTOb6pB03_2Vr53Evk-7X0bmKxTgLk/s1600/IMG_5641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_9bBAR916nt07FKMs-kBpmHFALePYovuvpdxpX2-vTFpkGOEYLPyvyimUdWO2aF5oOvIVVM8-2W_-cIttpm_-2F_WQalp92E-GtXKAZvq1AW6LTOb6pB03_2Vr53Evk-7X0bmKxTgLk/s640/IMG_5641.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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We had to pull over & check out the Winter Wonderland that we were suddenly engulfed in. It was incredible how quickly the terrain changed from a couple of flurries to white frost everywhere, & once we passed through Alpine, how quickly it went back to just a few flecks of snow in the air. By the time we reached Marfa, there was nothing but cold.</div>
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It was about 25 degrees by the time we reached <a href="http://elcosmico.com/">El Cosmico</a>, our home for the night, & we were a little worried that our little teepee was going to be pretty frigid. But, a blanket warmer & a fire pit at the foot of your bed can do great things, y'all.</div>
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We settled into our teepee & then headed out to explore. The El Cosmico grounds are awesome, with little ecentric touches everywhere that are just so fun. I would describe it as a much slower, laid-back community, with an Austin feel. We were in love as soon as we drove onto the property.</div>
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I would love to go back when we havea few more days (we were only able to stay one night) & take in more of the atmosphere. I've heard of reading retreats & I think El Cosmico would be a perfect place to cozy up with a few good books & a strong drink.</div>
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We headed off to dinner at Jett's Grill inside the historic <a href="http://hotelpaisano.com/">Hotel Paisano</a>. I had been told by many friends to be sure & make dinner reservations, as restaurants can fill up, but it turns out we didn't need one that night (we had made one just to be sure though!) I think that it might have been so quiet because of the sudden temperature drop.</div>
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Drinks & appetizers were first, & did not disappoint. We tried the fried artichoke hearts, along with a glass of Prosecco (my go-to) & a Tequila Cowboy for Andrew. The Tequila Cowboy was a sweet & spicy blend of honey, lemon, tequila & habanero hot sauce. It had a pretty big kick, but I really enjoyed the swigs I took.</div>
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The fried artichokes were crispy on the outside, creamy creamy on the inside & came with a delightful chipotle ranch. It was the perfect bite to start with after a long day on the road.</div>
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We then moved on to entrees, & they were just as tasty. Andrew had the pork & I ordered a vegetable pasta. Both were awesome & large portions. The pork was well seared & the sauce paired really well. My pasta was dressed with a bright pesto & the vegetables had just enough crunch left in them to compliment the starchy pasta. </div>
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After dinner, we bundled up & headed over to <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57784c8fd2b857e1fab29f81/t/5779b030d1758e240175cc56/1467592771582/stellina_menu_p1.pdf">Stellina</a> for coffee & dessert. When you're only in town for one night, you have to hit up several places for each meal! The coffee was rich & strong & the chocolate cheesecake was dense & delightful.</div>
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Around 6am, I woke up to go to the bathroom (thankfully the staff had left the inside bathroom open for us, so that we didn't have to brave a 25 degree toliet seat in the outdoor bathrooms!) & decided to stay up to see what I could capture with my camera. After several failed attempts, I got some pretty cool pictures of our teepees & the community areas on the grounds.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVwpM9SwfSl750RKbIH_XWlM7xDAkwLc5KfRBy_QR4WifKsdSheKkgfPCeHhyMdgYFx7VS2tpIPaeML1OKAcLsxwJn8f4gRxpQyd7BXMtyxEBPrUGBZAHNnVRSUXOHLE0qz9ndN8CT4U/s1600/IMG_5990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVwpM9SwfSl750RKbIH_XWlM7xDAkwLc5KfRBy_QR4WifKsdSheKkgfPCeHhyMdgYFx7VS2tpIPaeML1OKAcLsxwJn8f4gRxpQyd7BXMtyxEBPrUGBZAHNnVRSUXOHLE0qz9ndN8CT4U/s640/IMG_5990.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Post-photo shoot, we headed over to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bunsnrosesmarfa/">Buns N' Roses</a> for breakfast. They had a fun tire snowman greeting us & I couldn't resist getting a pic. </div>
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Staff was friendly, coffee was abundant & the food was killer. While we waited for our order, we shared a homemade chocolate glazed donut that was soft & delicious. Andrew got waffles, eggs & bacon, which was so plentiful, it could've fed both of us. The waffle was a good combo of crispy & fluffy.</div>
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My dish was the real star of the morning, eggs, cheesy grits & the best toast I've had in a long time. The bread was perfectly made & toasted so well. Though Andrew had more than enough food, he kept sneaking bites of my cozy, creamy grits & eggs. If you're in the area, I think it's a must-try.</div>
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I wish we would've had more time to explore the art museums, but we did have a chance to stop by the <a href="https://www.chinati.org/">Chinati Foundation</a>.</div>
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And afterwards, we stopped in to <a href="http://www.moonlightgemstones.com/">Moonlight Gemstones</a> & fell in love. This quirky, fun little shop is full of treasures. The owners told us about the various local agates & showed us several varieties. It's amazing how much just a few miles can change the look of a gem. We ended up coming home with one of those big 'ol pretty rose quartz pieces.</div>
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After some browsing & exploring around town, we grabbed tasty sandwiches, & a couple of coffees at <a href="http://www.squeezemarfa.com/">Squeeze Marfa</a> before heading out to Alpine.</div>
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-6271341524742024562016-11-25T11:27:00.000-06:002016-12-30T14:49:02.905-06:00A Cozy Thanksgiving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The holidays are officially in full swing! Here's a peak at our Thanksgiving.</div>
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This year, our Thanksgiving was so relaxing. We had dinner at my in-laws & in usual style, everything was laid-back & absolutely delicious. For my contribution to the meal, I made <a href="http://www.cookingchanneltv.com/recipes/kelsey-nixon/carmelitas.html">Kelsey Nixon's Carmelitas</a>. They were so easy, but full of fall flavor.</div>
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It was my first time making caramel from scratch & let me tell you, it made me feel like a rockstar. The gooey caramel, paired with the pecans, chocolate & oats made for a decadent, warm bite. I will be making these again & again.</div>
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We took our time in the morning, me making the Carmelitas & then Andrew whipping up his Corn Pudding. He's been making this fluffy, corn souffle dish since we've been together (I think maybe even longer). The eggs are so voluminous & rich, with lots of cream, cheese & corn sprinkled throughout.</div>
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In the early afternoon, we went over to the in-law's where we munched on delicious appetizers, including this fresh, fun shrimp cocktail from Andrew's Aunt Debbie.</div>
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Pre-dinner, there was the annual potato-peeling contest, which Andrew, his sister Katie & cousin Lucas have been holding since they were young. I'm not sure who the winner was this year, but they are all impressive with a peeler.</div>
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And of course, there were arts & crafts! I brought along some paper plates, scissors & markers for making fun, adult & kid friendly animals. </div>
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Andrew's Aunt Honoria (<a href="http://honoriastarbuck.com/">check out her amazing work here</a>), set up a holiday card-making station, which produced several works of art!</div>
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We had a lovely, relaxing & tasty Thanksgiving that finished up with drinks by the fire. A good day in my book! How was your turkey day?</div>
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HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-78161585760605355842016-11-03T14:00:00.001-05:002016-11-03T14:00:39.002-05:00DIY (Decorate It Yourself!) Sugar Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Halloween is quickly becoming one of my favorite holidays. The last couple of years, we have thrown a party either on, or around October 31st & I've loved it. We get to see all the kiddos in their costumes, hang out with loved ones, put up creepy decor & make tasty treats! </div>
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This year, we created a cookie decorating station to satisfy everyone's sweet tooth. For the cookies, I used a revised version of the sugar cookies my Mom always made. These sugar cookies were one of my Mom's trademarks & were mandatory at every family Christmas, celebration & any other gathering we could get her to make them for. </div>
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My Mom never cared very much about the decorating part, but it's something I always look forward to. Which is why I thought a DIY, Decorate Your Own, cookie station sounded like a great time! And it saved me from having to frost two huge batches of cookies, haha! </div>
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I made up a big bowl of frosting & mixed it up into a few Halloween colors, picked out a some holiday candies & let everyone make their own treat.</div>
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Let's talk candy for a minute. I knew that the toppings selection would be very important for these sweet treats. Because: extra excuses to eat CANDY! I wanted a few creepy choices, some fun ones & a mix of flavors. I started with gummy body parts, bloody bones, sour spiders & gummy teeth. All of these goodies where found in the bulk bins at <a href="http://www.centralmarket.com/Home">Central Market</a>. </div>
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I also grabbed eyeball gum (<a href="http://target.com/">Target</a>), Halloween sprinkles (two kinds), a sparkly mix of colored sugars, & a few fruity, cinnamon & chocolate choices from the grocery store selection of movie theater candy. Throw each type in a cup or container & you're ready! </div>
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For the icing, I decided to use buttercream. It's one of my favorites because it's thick, creamy & easy to spread, but doesn't run off the sides. It's a good choice for kiddos. And it's tasty! My go-to buttercream recipe is the Wilton version, which you can find <a href="https://www.allinonebakeshop.com/recipesandideas.asp">here</a>.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666360; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: medium; text-align: start;"><b>Soft Sugar Cookies</b></span></div>
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<i>Adapted from Valeria Hoelscher's recipe in </i></div>
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<i>St. Theresa Altar Society Cookbook, 2008, St. Lawrence, Texas</i></div>
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<b>1/2 cup Shortening</b></div>
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<b>1 cup Granulated Sugar</b></div>
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<b>1 teaspoon Salt</b></div>
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<b>2 teaspoon Baking Powder</b></div>
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<b>1 Egg</b></div>
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<b>1 teaspoon Clear Mexican Vanilla</b></div>
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<b>1/4 cup Cream</b></div>
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<b>2 - 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour</b></div>
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees.</div>
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Cream shortening in stand mixer or using electric beaters. Add sugar in stages and mix well. Add salt, backin powder, egg, vanilla and cream, mixing completely. Sift flour. Slowly, and in stages, add in the entire sifted flour mixture. <i>Note: It will take between 2 and 2 1/2 cups of flour. Check texture after you add each bit of flour, you want the dough to be 'dry' enough to roll out, but you do not want it to crumble. If dough is too 'wet' and won't roll out, add flour a tablespoon or two at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.</i></div>
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Turn dough out onto a well-floured surface. Roll dough out to 1/8 inch thickness and use your favorite cookie cutter(s) to cut out cookies. Put on greased or parchment lined cookie sheet and bake for 5-8 minutes, switching racks half-way through cooking time. Remove from oven and let cookies cool completely on a rack. Frost cookies with desired icing.</div>
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The yield of these cookies is hard to determine, since it all really depends on what size cookie cutter you use, but you can usually count on about 2 dozen per batch if you're using medium sized cutters.</div>
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There are a variety of icing styles you can use for sugar cookies, and you can find recipes just by hopping on pinterest or googling the type you're looking for. My sister loves the thin, powdered sugar/milk icing, while my favorite is a nice thick buttercream (used for these Halloween cookies). If you're looking to make intricate designs, royal icing is a good choice, but keep in mind that they can take quiet a while (typically 6-8 hours) to completely dry & harden. </div>
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A few creations from the party:</h4>
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-14493752759731560082016-09-22T11:23:00.000-05:002016-10-28T11:07:31.558-05:00Kerbey Lane Fall Menu is Here!<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">Please note that I sampled these dishes as part of a Kerbey Lane Fall Menu Tasting. As always, all thoughts & opinions are honest & my own. </i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdqlITyeflM5gWLuqgVN1FqPVOPvjS834PehxmTv74xUuKDTSxDbR1K16shEP43mxBJaP75nh2cqDlFMS2Wk8fo3DhmgC3Q1JGors71X3TaEtX8ByU9gOEExQYtA5x3eNVENb3vEKs9_o/s1600/IMG_8413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdqlITyeflM5gWLuqgVN1FqPVOPvjS834PehxmTv74xUuKDTSxDbR1K16shEP43mxBJaP75nh2cqDlFMS2Wk8fo3DhmgC3Q1JGors71X3TaEtX8ByU9gOEExQYtA5x3eNVENb3vEKs9_o/s400/IMG_8413.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Even though it's still a toasty 90+ degrees most days in Austin, fall is on it's way. Soon(ish) we'll be able to go outside without melting, & my morning cup of hot coffee won't leave me blasting the AC in the car during my commute. <br />
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But, we don't have to wait for temps to dip below 80 to enjoy the Kerbey Lane Fall Menu. It's now available at all locations! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSkKE4AX06n3iE8IX1mF0x0Uskfk-d8h5n7mY_CTAeNhhF36srfZubnM43E8KA2GdB96IeiZQr4UOJWLQJTsOpHsWaf6lBb7SQasCufGi8zg3g_AfmEL_GXlIBLyziwEm-6xJIVNlL1vs/s1600/IMG_8418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSkKE4AX06n3iE8IX1mF0x0Uskfk-d8h5n7mY_CTAeNhhF36srfZubnM43E8KA2GdB96IeiZQr4UOJWLQJTsOpHsWaf6lBb7SQasCufGi8zg3g_AfmEL_GXlIBLyziwEm-6xJIVNlL1vs/s640/IMG_8418.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We recently ventured over to the South Lamar location to try a few Fall Menu items out. You need to get yourself to the nearest Kerbey Lane and try some of these Autumn-inspired goodies. We were so pleased with the everything we tasted!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-1ej6JEKCxfiWPD6dKurleVUnovnJcLsZc8u9aHUX6CQkdenZBkVLDkUMLHe5IELJLLgXn-yd814ZsT5yi8fhMzYdgHq1CmKTALcCaTZ_t0lWaZl30Z3NL4rYrtMTfi8R4qUmaVtVgw/s1600/IMG_8411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-1ej6JEKCxfiWPD6dKurleVUnovnJcLsZc8u9aHUX6CQkdenZBkVLDkUMLHe5IELJLLgXn-yd814ZsT5yi8fhMzYdgHq1CmKTALcCaTZ_t0lWaZl30Z3NL4rYrtMTfi8R4qUmaVtVgw/s640/IMG_8411.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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We started out by sampling the Frito Pie, which was filled with Akaushi beef. Just like the Frito Pies you had at Friday night football games....but so much better. Akaushi beef, a Japenese Wagyu breed of cattle from <a href="https://heartbrandbeef.com/">HeartBrand Beef</a>, is raised locally & featured throughout the Fall menu. You can really taste the quality. HeartBrand Beef is raised hormone & antibiotic free & their cattle are fed an all-natural, vegetarian diet.<br />
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We then moved on to the Texas Benedict. I always love trying the different Eggs Benedict that are part of the seasonal Kerbey Lane menus, but this guy may be my favorite version. Two huge pieces of sweet, thick cornbread topped with queso, pico, Akaushi steak, avocado & of course two perfectly poached eggs. It's decadent, delicious & all I could want in breakfast. A must-try.<br />
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Texas Street Tacos, again featuring Akaushi steak, were a great mix of flavors & textures. Warm corn tortillas are stuffed with steak, caramelized onions, tomato, bright cilantro & topped with queso fresco. A refreshing guacamole salad is served on the side....because what taco isn't made tastier with a little avocado?<br />
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Our final entree of the evening was a creamy, cozy Pork Belly Mac & Cheese. I was immediately enamored with how oozy, gooey, cheesy the mac & cheese was. If you think everything is better with a little more cheese (me!) you will be very happy. It reminded me of my Mom's cheesy macaroni. And that's a very good thing.<br />
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I loved the addition of pimentos & fresh parsley, it added a nice pop of brightness to the dish.<br />
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Kerbey Lane Cafe</h3>
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For locations visit: <a href="http://kerbeylanecafe.com/">KerbeyLaneCafe.com</a><br />
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-9366757052259696012016-08-30T12:18:00.000-05:002016-09-12T12:22:04.667-05:00Rainy Day Baking: Chocolate & Cream Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Is there anything better than baking on a rainy day? One of my favorite things to do when the weather is a little dreary, especially if said day happens to fall on a weekend, is bake up a batch of cookies. If I'm really having my way, I'm still wearing my pj pants & there is a movie I know every word to playing in the living room. <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0106220/">Addams Family Values</a> anyone?</div>
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So when all of the recent storms came through, I pulled on my trusty, worn snowflake flannels & got to work. I decided to add white chocolate & some crushed Oreos (double stuf of course) to my go-to chocolate chip cookie. It was a good decision. The best decision, really. These cookies are decadent, with a little crunch & a lotta chocolate. </div>
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I'm normally not a huge fan of white chocolate, but it blends so well with the milk chocolate, almost mimicking the Oreo cream & cookie. Speaking of the Oreo cream, it melts into the batter & makes for an extra special bite that melts in your mouth. Add in a few crispy bits of crushed chocolate Oreo sandwich cookie & it's quite a treat.</div>
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<b>Chocolate & Cream Cookies</b></h2>
3/4 cup butter, softened<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup granulated sugar<br />
2 teaspoons cornstarch<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1 egg<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla<br />
2 cups flour<br />
1/2 white chocolate chips<br />
1/2 mini chocolate chips<br />
12 Double Stuf <a href="http://www.oreo.com/">Oreo</a> sandwich cookies<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
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Cream together butter & both sugars. Stir in cornstarch, baking soda, salt, egg & vanilla. Slowly mix in flour, just until incorporated. Add in both white & mini chocolate chips, as well as the Oreo cookies, breaking each on into a couple of pieces before adding it to the mixture. Mix just until the Oreo cookies break up & the chips are mixed throughout the dough.<br />
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Using a cookie scoop or two teaspoons, portion out cookies onto parchment lined cookie sheets, leaving a couple of inches between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through. Once baked, leave the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before placing on a cooling rack.<br />
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-74646633869341748242016-08-15T16:08:00.000-05:002016-10-28T11:37:10.456-05:00S'mores Drop Scones with Kerbey Lane Mix<br />
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S'mores Drop Scones. What better summer treat to celebrate on this super-hot August day?<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">Please note that I was given Kerbey Lane Pancake Mix to use for this recipe. As always, all thoughts & opinions are honest & my own. </i><br />
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As a girl, one of my favorite things about going on camping trips as a Girl Scout was making ooey, gooey s'mores. The sleeping in a tent part was ok & starting a fire was fun, but I loved the taste of a warm marshmallow & melty chocolate. Best part of camping? I think so. :) I even had a fascination with burning giant marshmallows on our gas stove as a pre-teen. Because the only thing better than a toasty marshmallow is a crispy on the outside, liquid on the inside burnt marshmallow. Ammiright?<br />
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These days, I prefer s'mores inspired baked treats. Less messy & you can make them anytime. No campfire required!<br />
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Today's treat is made even simpler, with the help of <a href="http://kerbeylanecafe.com/store#!/Pancake-Mix/c/16563291/offset=0&sort=normal">Kerbey Lane Buttermilk Pancake Mix</a>. If you've ever had the pleasure of eating in one of Austin's Kerbey Lane Cafes, I hope you tried the pancakes. Light, fluffy with a hint of sweet (no syrup required!) Kerbey Lane's Buttermilk Pancakes are delicious. Which is why I thought their easy pancake mix would make for a great base for these scones.<br />
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Man, I was right. Along with the mallow bits (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jet-puffed-Mallow-Vanilla-Flavor-Marshmallows/dp/B007HS7CRW">find them here</a>) and mini chocolate chips, the pancake mix makes for a not overly sweet scone that's big on flavor, but has no added sugar. And it pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdUdKwt0kye_YXer7mT8IqypEo1G4bXFTzu_7SMJo9_DuW7SnhHjDW5qm50epUGU9WQzrnMN4TWVah0ifW8go1lQRwuv1OL-yJWmr8_g2Xk4f6Pwf_8iLUoOORF-JYFybkWkYReCdsp8/s640/blogger-image--1489511901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdUdKwt0kye_YXer7mT8IqypEo1G4bXFTzu_7SMJo9_DuW7SnhHjDW5qm50epUGU9WQzrnMN4TWVah0ifW8go1lQRwuv1OL-yJWmr8_g2Xk4f6Pwf_8iLUoOORF-JYFybkWkYReCdsp8/s640/blogger-image--1489511901.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b>S’mores Drop Scones</b></h4>
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Makes 12 - 15 large scones</div>
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1 box <a href="http://kerbeylanecafe.com/store#!/Buttermilk-Pancake-Mix/p/59947620/category=16563291">Kerbey Lane Buttermilk Pancake Mix</a></div>
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1/2 cup finely crushed graham crackers</div>
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2 teaspoons baking powder</div>
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1 teaspoon salt</div>
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3/4 cup <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jet-puffed-Mallow-Vanilla-Flavor-Marshmallows/dp/B007HS7CRW">mallow bits </a>(plus extra for topping)</div>
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3/4 cup mini chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)</div>
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1 to 1 1/4 cups half and half</div>
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees.</div>
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Whisk pancake mix, crushed graham crackers, baking powder and salt. Add in mallow bits and mini chocolate chips, reserving a few extras to top the scones with before baking. Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, mix in half and half. Avoid over-mixing, and start by adding 1 cup of half and half. If the mix is overly dry, add a little more half and half, a tablespoon at a time. Once everything is incorporated, take two large clean spoons & drop scones onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Be sure to leave ample room between each scone on the baking sheet. After portioning out scones, top with extra mallow bits and mini chocolate chips. This is key!</div>
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Place scones in oven and bake for 14 - 16 minutes, or until golden brown. These are best served day-of.</div>
HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-85148419752080237412016-06-14T14:46:00.002-05:002016-06-14T14:46:28.957-05:00Pecan Cookies with Oats & CoconutLast week, Andrew, being the sweet husband that he is, brought me home a surprise from work. The gift shop inside the hospital where he works had cookies & he got a pecan coconut cookie for us to share after dinner.<br />
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I thought it'd be a nice little treat, but I did not expect it to be really, <u>really</u> good. Y'all, this was one of the best cookies I've had in a long time. Cookies are my favorite dessert & very rarely do I turn down a tasting opportunity...so I feel I'm a little bit of an expert on cookie goodness.<br />
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This gift shop jem was soft, bursting with pecans chunks & had just enough coconut to make it super moist & chewy. Absolutely delicious. I didn't want to share with Andrew, but since he was nice enough to bring it home...I had too.<br />
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Since I wasn't able to indulge in the whole cookie....or the 10 others I'm pretty sure I could've gobbled up, I set out to make a similar cookie from scratch. I decided to start with a soft oatmeal cookie & fill it up with lots of pecans & some unsweetened coconut flakes. </div>
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I think I did pretty well. The cookie stays soft, & the coconut, pecan mixture sets in with the oatmeal to create a nutty bite that still has a touch of chewiness. I made these Sunday & brought them in to work, where they were gone before lunch.</div>
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This recipe comes together in just a few minutes too, as long as you remember to soften your butter ahead of time. I always forget & have to delay my batch!<br />
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<h2>
Pecan Cookies with Oats & Coconut</h2>
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Makes about 4 dozen<br />
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1 cup butter, softened<br />
1 cup packed dark brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup granulated sugar<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
1 tablespoon vanilla<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 cup old fashioned rolled oats<br />
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans<br />
1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
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In a large bowl, cream together butter & both sugars. Mix in baking soda, salt, cinnamon, vanilla & eggs. Slowly add in flour. Fold in oats, pecans & coconut, just until everything binds together, try to avoid over-mixing.<br />
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On parchment or silicon mat lined baking sheets, spoon out cookies using either a small scoop or two teaspoons, leaving an inch or so in between each cookie.<br />
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Bake 8 - 10 minutes. Upon removing the cookies from the oven, leave them on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before moving them onto a cooling rack.<br />
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<br />HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-26796950725444194392016-06-02T09:52:00.000-05:002016-06-09T13:40:00.809-05:00Quick Eats: Austin's Pizza now in H-E-B! + Instagram Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>* Instagram contest has now closed *</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQQpi_EJIbXOFxQrRGa-JvOmDnWWMpg15KTIeqjK_I4toWeqB8JZin4SdQUFG9iRXJxX6hs9wC1orj4QEO7sjAUY8jyJJj5QbNWRXSbFVYGWBmyTcHH4uCE0cKN_QmYQ9BNFE8FmX5xE/s1600/IMG_7223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQQpi_EJIbXOFxQrRGa-JvOmDnWWMpg15KTIeqjK_I4toWeqB8JZin4SdQUFG9iRXJxX6hs9wC1orj4QEO7sjAUY8jyJJj5QbNWRXSbFVYGWBmyTcHH4uCE0cKN_QmYQ9BNFE8FmX5xE/s400/IMG_7223.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i>Please note that the pizza I sampled & giveaway prize were provided by Austin's Pizza. As always, all thoughts & opinions are my own.</i><br />
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Pizza, is there anything better? I love going out to pizza parlors, making homemade pies with Andrew & even, for those nights when you need dinner NOW, frozen pizzas. We try to always keep a pizza in our freezer for those occasions, but we've struggled to find a brand that we really like.<br />
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That's why I'm SO excited that one of our favorite local go-to's <a href="http://www.austinspizza.com/">Austin's Pizza</a>, now has frozen pies, right in your local H-E-B freezer section!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9D1-kp2JIhz9BeELNojXNOhb0ZfJnonfxPYPM__FuQGL3WU4g5qrlNHXS0NG3G3DaxCi6Rd_W6Fsi9wjNfAZQ-VEzrbEw4pW5Kz4Yv6mdT8sirvy_dQwBDHCJTpfh6aQP4zw-qzVTXks/s1600/IMG_7224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9D1-kp2JIhz9BeELNojXNOhb0ZfJnonfxPYPM__FuQGL3WU4g5qrlNHXS0NG3G3DaxCi6Rd_W6Fsi9wjNfAZQ-VEzrbEw4pW5Kz4Yv6mdT8sirvy_dQwBDHCJTpfh6aQP4zw-qzVTXks/s640/IMG_7224.JPG" width="440" /></a></div>
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There are four varieties to choose from:<br />
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<h4>
- classic pepperoni</h4>
<h4>
- Brazos (Canadian bacon, pepperoni, onions, green peppers, jalapenos & feta)</h4>
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- Downtown Special (pepperoni, sausage, black olives & mushrooms)</h4>
<h4>
- MoPac (Canadian bacon, pepperoni, sausage, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms & olives)</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWCe0iGBplAVOBb-r8vM9DY6cRh4IHgMvmtzj0V4Z_kPZO6VGydrBvneLJaJ9Ltn2jICXukyCRVxkZ_H7unT_dI6ABCGD9jWJ04qscXd_VpxxVdffY3QTMOsWzdsVX-err_Xmfa22ndk/s1600/IMG_7226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWCe0iGBplAVOBb-r8vM9DY6cRh4IHgMvmtzj0V4Z_kPZO6VGydrBvneLJaJ9Ltn2jICXukyCRVxkZ_H7unT_dI6ABCGD9jWJ04qscXd_VpxxVdffY3QTMOsWzdsVX-err_Xmfa22ndk/s640/IMG_7226.JPG" width="508" /></a></div>
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Last night we tried the MoPac & man, was it tasty. Especially when you consider it was frozen! This is not your typical grocery store pizza.<br />
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The thin crust got toasty & crispy & the entire pie was loaded with toppings that tasted incredibly fresh. The meats combined with all of the veggies, especially the bites of tomato, made for a not too heavy, delicious meal that went from box to table in less than 20 minutes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQowNTAsoGYs3UGSXMVd4mYaWX86nMOUPczUn7Bo1z5rExWVwwiUSIElpaauBRzLJw-_NH1-BTBmKCs1LgdrwxDWjLhaS4xE68jRhb3A9KgJUdC5rcZdfGmxMpHQayvFBtgCC8e-qCacI/s1600/IMG_7225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQowNTAsoGYs3UGSXMVd4mYaWX86nMOUPczUn7Bo1z5rExWVwwiUSIElpaauBRzLJw-_NH1-BTBmKCs1LgdrwxDWjLhaS4xE68jRhb3A9KgJUdC5rcZdfGmxMpHQayvFBtgCC8e-qCacI/s640/IMG_7225.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can find Austin's Pizzas exclusively in the frozen food aisle of H-E-B stores in the Austin, San Antonio, Houston & San Marcos areas.<br />
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<i style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">* Instagram contest has now closed *</i></h3>
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Also, I'm giving away a coupon for a FREE Austin's Frozen Pizza, over on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/homemadeaustin/">instagram page</a>, so you can try this awesomeness for yourself. I'll be picking a winner on Friday at 5pm CST, so be sure to enter!</h3>
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HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-1635020758673033622016-04-28T16:30:00.001-05:002016-04-28T16:30:33.484-05:00Sunday Adventuring along Hwy. 290Sometimes you just get the urge to wander. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKv3A5TrQ5z5Locg-RKZmEwAogYIlco5BZs6pG7EtG49w_7C6c5EYFg14cxz4XedeIeNkCBsZMhA-SfgLhw7bE7Rp7_ZxomBGx-onUYwSjmU-IsgbwGEpzGz0GoKSYTlYUxXLwM8nxDQ/s1600/IMG_2121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKv3A5TrQ5z5Locg-RKZmEwAogYIlco5BZs6pG7EtG49w_7C6c5EYFg14cxz4XedeIeNkCBsZMhA-SfgLhw7bE7Rp7_ZxomBGx-onUYwSjmU-IsgbwGEpzGz0GoKSYTlYUxXLwM8nxDQ/s640/IMG_2121.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildseed Farms</td></tr>
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I often get the itch to roam in the springtime, when it's warm but not scorching & the hill country begins filling up with wildflowers. Moving to Austin was always in my plans, but it's not until I actually arrived here that I realized my favorite Central Texas wonder: the wildflowers. There's something so magical about bar ditches filled with yellow blooms, bluebonnet fields & front yards adorned with poppies. If you follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/homemadeaustin/">instagram</a>, you will see my infatuation is real. I have many, many photos of wildflowers sprinkled throughout my feed. <br />
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Recently, Andrew & I decided we needed to do a little Hill Country wandering. We headed down Hwy. 290 on a breezy Sunday morning with two things in mind: pastries & poppies. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmtMH9TEKTu8Hp6d0eX_Re0-m4xdzQM5HqkFqNwkYL1X7GwNP0SVwR9jihWVz8S6Qfc5AkFXP-T_HPo1WwhkEk6KPWkR1onIJ57m9DsZ23f5QSUELdeVxQZ2tXEUFYX6bQLH3t2zvVPk/s1600/IMG_1472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmtMH9TEKTu8Hp6d0eX_Re0-m4xdzQM5HqkFqNwkYL1X7GwNP0SVwR9jihWVz8S6Qfc5AkFXP-T_HPo1WwhkEk6KPWkR1onIJ57m9DsZ23f5QSUELdeVxQZ2tXEUFYX6bQLH3t2zvVPk/s400/IMG_1472.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pie-e-tea</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdeMJzW-2SFNegQkLbVPMu307sMtbMSX3OhwEQs4ov6_AjhTYihXm8LrU8fMuLR9si5KQ3VAFynp-tzrQoKCmaXTba0FrdxbwwXlMJ5joLkYPKrG4fxqEtH3bvpu07Zl0Ybb5Ra6YJ6I/s1600/IMG_2126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdeMJzW-2SFNegQkLbVPMu307sMtbMSX3OhwEQs4ov6_AjhTYihXm8LrU8fMuLR9si5KQ3VAFynp-tzrQoKCmaXTba0FrdxbwwXlMJ5joLkYPKrG4fxqEtH3bvpu07Zl0Ybb5Ra6YJ6I/s640/IMG_2126.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildseed Farms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We stopped at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Pieous">Pie-e-tea</a> for a few goodies before heading on to <a href="http://www.wildseedfarms.com/">Wildseed Farms</a>, to check out their famous poppy fields. Neither destination disappointed. The flaky, rich pastries at Pie-e-tea would have been worth the trip alone & my latte was equally decadent & delicious.<br />
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Wildseed Farms, which is always on my list if we head down Hwy. 290, was overflowing with poppies & people. We arrived to a packed parking lot, but the crowds weren't nearly as bad as we imagined when we pulled in. We roamed around the giant grounds, checking out all of the gorgeous plants & pots for sale, before making our way to the fields. Wildseed Farms has several fields of poppies, as well as rows of various other blooms scattered around the back section. <br />
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Walking among the wildflowers is a wonderful way to spend the day. And though it was a little early for us to take advantage of, <a href="https://weddingoakwinery.com/visit-us-in-fredericksburg">Wedding Oak Winery</a> now has a tasting room set up on the Wildseed Farms grounds. We will definitely be back to try out their wine. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYr2aoIIrnUghKITbj5P1aaC_Gu6OpV-HxftT_NU4dOxrm0kHEskkurhFii1BTg1Xb_jEPEC82VAh2Oltw0BavdyvYyrOU1lmiy_CfxN9x9JyVQmtgSN9H4-VA9blLKsomp1JCvgFYS0/s1600/IMG_2124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYr2aoIIrnUghKITbj5P1aaC_Gu6OpV-HxftT_NU4dOxrm0kHEskkurhFii1BTg1Xb_jEPEC82VAh2Oltw0BavdyvYyrOU1lmiy_CfxN9x9JyVQmtgSN9H4-VA9blLKsomp1JCvgFYS0/s640/IMG_2124.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildseed Farms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEal6IkhbT1N_ueYqW-xLtuGxHHKJEQE9NVbdZnW8XspadtoPH5ic8r3NPN_nApnNQSMXdEzAuiw8drLcZHKVa-oBgBqyWRpB0J42HRsj2rLAjVOpLjw86BMxr1bluA4CS0ZglxRlyPSo/s1600/IMG_2123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEal6IkhbT1N_ueYqW-xLtuGxHHKJEQE9NVbdZnW8XspadtoPH5ic8r3NPN_nApnNQSMXdEzAuiw8drLcZHKVa-oBgBqyWRpB0J42HRsj2rLAjVOpLjw86BMxr1bluA4CS0ZglxRlyPSo/s640/IMG_2123.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildseed Farms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOS7Cd4StL66TnBntWZQTZWoT9JedgHVrU29XXpM33cZjV4rz0d0oOJkOY2WIszGD6JUWQnj0PVAv2MFIsbFHiMoFBQktBpUbJhR4uZDfua3FDqr-gUdCJAm1YSpwjIXSKcgA7EWTD6vk/s1600/IMG_2120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOS7Cd4StL66TnBntWZQTZWoT9JedgHVrU29XXpM33cZjV4rz0d0oOJkOY2WIszGD6JUWQnj0PVAv2MFIsbFHiMoFBQktBpUbJhR4uZDfua3FDqr-gUdCJAm1YSpwjIXSKcgA7EWTD6vk/s640/IMG_2120.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildseed Farms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWFlIN72E8A-UHFS0O6vSshwE1gClgheN5nz0w9jsxwms47TWrYANcfhnqDpeAcly_wUwq6K4sIAfT02p6irKMnEbAg4q2uWdP1-SMPWLC9wzx8bV2KEG45hkgySrKnkx2_YghkRpiYc/s1600/IMG_2119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWFlIN72E8A-UHFS0O6vSshwE1gClgheN5nz0w9jsxwms47TWrYANcfhnqDpeAcly_wUwq6K4sIAfT02p6irKMnEbAg4q2uWdP1-SMPWLC9wzx8bV2KEG45hkgySrKnkx2_YghkRpiYc/s640/IMG_2119.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildseed Farms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzM-xLIURROfyP59gXMsdRTW3dVR8EsKtEI-HsU8lo1sbnpvr72SPMzKz2mzSgpr5VvAR2NseKj3O88cDpLqFeR06yGnNuAOlSg3dkOEokEPXdiKnoC1x3R0YgLvmPqjh5bxu0gVObao/s1600/IMG_2114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzM-xLIURROfyP59gXMsdRTW3dVR8EsKtEI-HsU8lo1sbnpvr72SPMzKz2mzSgpr5VvAR2NseKj3O88cDpLqFeR06yGnNuAOlSg3dkOEokEPXdiKnoC1x3R0YgLvmPqjh5bxu0gVObao/s640/IMG_2114.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildseed Farms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFxg81yIeqpHw1YUzabKL5b4_Oc-_4IUDhhwtB3M0D8VacK1VGDRD8NdNCJOooCEMv3ZjiQAOzoFDoMBlh16lVv2t6C2R-LWZtW1uRhfVYdCVoqCJ3HcxGd_0Kdik6elpF19jSv12Sd0/s1600/IMG_2125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFxg81yIeqpHw1YUzabKL5b4_Oc-_4IUDhhwtB3M0D8VacK1VGDRD8NdNCJOooCEMv3ZjiQAOzoFDoMBlh16lVv2t6C2R-LWZtW1uRhfVYdCVoqCJ3HcxGd_0Kdik6elpF19jSv12Sd0/s640/IMG_2125.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildseed Farms</td></tr>
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On our way back in to Austin, we decided to stop in & take the driving tour of the LBJ Ranch. It's a really peaceful way to see a little piece President Johnson's life. We walked around the original buildings, including the school house pictured below & even saw a few Longhorns & wildflowers. <br />
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Our day ended on a tasty note with BBQ from Stubb's at Graceland Grocery, a fun roadside stop along Hwy. 290. A huge outdoor space houses lots of tables, a volleyball court & room for kiddos to run around. We happily munched on nachos & a brisket sandwich with a side of mashed potatoes, while reflecting on our fun day trip. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJIExHhE0wGOa4EZhuzrghuamXfMaUUBdO93uXBmOL3rSdYXTYNTda5d7uEN-b_piCgdX69htm5dnCZbZOUK3e_MHtm16uZCu82hz-8VfYdfGdjM5e5webqRROe-D6eH5BU7t_mM6jk0/s1600/IMG_2113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJIExHhE0wGOa4EZhuzrghuamXfMaUUBdO93uXBmOL3rSdYXTYNTda5d7uEN-b_piCgdX69htm5dnCZbZOUK3e_MHtm16uZCu82hz-8VfYdfGdjM5e5webqRROe-D6eH5BU7t_mM6jk0/s640/IMG_2113.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LBJ Ranch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Gd8lauQvnT66LDbOAKaUuqYlGwZASLzztDazrc1uehgaqpxT5TXbq5TdZ3JTiBXf9X2dtysoQIb9icNl4jyI_ukjA7ZVb3aLbEpnn5lz6NNsr2OWLhtXSWqMXdp632CQ2907ynQCOhs/s1600/IMG_2116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Gd8lauQvnT66LDbOAKaUuqYlGwZASLzztDazrc1uehgaqpxT5TXbq5TdZ3JTiBXf9X2dtysoQIb9icNl4jyI_ukjA7ZVb3aLbEpnn5lz6NNsr2OWLhtXSWqMXdp632CQ2907ynQCOhs/s640/IMG_2116.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LBJ Ranch</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuS6NHMDgkFbGyBHi3DicGGrEXgI0duuWe0k3I3Wzd8DFn_oL4zLKDO3PvbnTHriJ3kDWDyjtvsXg6E1BlzfrS2Iv0qJNMVOyBkaXj1ST0XJnO1GBUW4oG_sv2BXms62-h2-vCpeN9EQ/s1600/IMG_2115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuS6NHMDgkFbGyBHi3DicGGrEXgI0duuWe0k3I3Wzd8DFn_oL4zLKDO3PvbnTHriJ3kDWDyjtvsXg6E1BlzfrS2Iv0qJNMVOyBkaXj1ST0XJnO1GBUW4oG_sv2BXms62-h2-vCpeN9EQ/s640/IMG_2115.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LBJ Ranch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5iJsOPCuWQoFXSL74FoR9yg8w8DvtNPVCz8kmaI2vhavEayl3DsXnY9WKTxT6GDnmcd9fT0fj2v6NW7TXlFrlb_S1FNyqQWIEcH9qjWWOVETRUd_ouH0CqCqCgJtrZJnndN1FoAIEFw/s1600/IMG_2110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5iJsOPCuWQoFXSL74FoR9yg8w8DvtNPVCz8kmaI2vhavEayl3DsXnY9WKTxT6GDnmcd9fT0fj2v6NW7TXlFrlb_S1FNyqQWIEcH9qjWWOVETRUd_ouH0CqCqCgJtrZJnndN1FoAIEFw/s400/IMG_2110.JPG" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stubb's at Graceland Grocery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Pieous">Pie-e-tea</a></b></h3>
12005 W. Hwy. 290<br />
Austin, TX<br />
512.394.7041<br />
6am - 4pm<br />
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<h3>
<b><a href="http://www.wildseedfarms.com/">Wildseed Farms</a></b></h3>
100 Legacy Drive<br />
Fredericksburg, TX<br />
800.848.0078<br />
9:30am - 5pm<br />
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<h3>
<b><a href="https://www.nps.gov/lyjo/planyourvisit/visitlbjranch.htm">LBJ Ranch</a></b> </h3>
100 Ladybird Lane<br />
Johnson City, TX<br />
830.868.7128<br />
9am - 4:30pm<br />
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<h3>
<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/stubbsgraceland/">Stubb's at Graceland Grocery</a></b></h3>
8600 W. Hwy. 290<br />
Austin, TX<br />
512.792.9778<br />
11am - 9pmHomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736958721021848.post-47260310750482203452016-04-12T21:29:00.000-05:002016-04-13T16:52:43.538-05:00Quick Eats: Caprese Panini Style Sandwiches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQonnVf_nWZ1HHKWHutQ3A5WFBzFNU0HNZ8AjAAqTDE6v3wI2EmrLo3tqGAdknwQcbA6B8jNprZeJkSL0NeKqOwxlYhAcbg_GM7PEJbvQbX7euJ7E4GaOM-J1yY1B817VLvW2wL5xIQQ/s1600/grilledcheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQonnVf_nWZ1HHKWHutQ3A5WFBzFNU0HNZ8AjAAqTDE6v3wI2EmrLo3tqGAdknwQcbA6B8jNprZeJkSL0NeKqOwxlYhAcbg_GM7PEJbvQbX7euJ7E4GaOM-J1yY1B817VLvW2wL5xIQQ/s640/grilledcheese.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Did you know that it's National Grilled Cheese Day today? These social media food holidays can be goofy, but when I hear about them it really gets my inspiration going. After seeing some posts earlier today, I decided we need to observe this fun day with sammies for dinner. Because cheese & bread are awesome. And why not celebrate?<br />
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But we couldn't have just regular 'ol grilled cheese. We needed <u>fancy</u> grilled cheese. I love to make things complicated. :) So, I came up with a little take on one of my favorite restaurant orders: Caprese Sandwiches. We had shredded mozzarella leftover from homemade pizzas a few days ago, cherry tomatoes in the fridge & even some basil from a plant I had picked up over the weekend (Trying to grow some indoors herbs this year, wish me luck!) so after a quick trip to the store for ciabatta rolls, we were set. I decided to add some balsamic to the bread at the last minute & I'm really glad I did. It adds a nice depth of flavor to the sandwich & I love balsamic on just about anything. It's delicious.<br />
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We made the sandwiches really shine but cooking them up panini-style. We don't have a panini press, so any time we feel like making them, I just use two of our cast-iron skillets & the heaviest canned good I can find from our pantry. You heat up your largest pan, load it up with the sammies, place the second pan on top & then add your unopened can to the top of your second pan to press down the sandwich. It's a really simple method & makes delicious, crispy edged, gooey on the inside sandwiches, minus one more thing to store in my already cramped kitchen.<br />
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These quick sandwiches would be a great lunch, but they make for an even better, incredibly quick, tasty dinner that's made in literally minutes. I ate mine while finishing up my reading (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Why-Not-Me-Mindy-Kaling/dp/0804138141/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1460583931&sr=8-1&keywords=why+not+me">Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling</a>) for this week's book club & it made for the perfect reading companion. <br />
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<i>(P.S. I've been attending The <a href="http://www.thepapercraftpantry.com/">Paper Craft Pantry</a>'s book club hosted by Stephanie Hinrichs of <a href="http://www.interlacedgoods.com/">Interlaced Goods</a> & it's so good & so fun. If you're in the Austin area, you should join! All of the info can be found on Paper Craft Pantry's website.)</i><br />
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<h3>
Caprese Sandwiches</h3>
(Serves 2)<br />
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Ciabatta Rolls (4, cut lengthwise)<br />
Balsamic Vinegar<br />
Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups shredded or one large ball fresh, sliced)<br />
Tomatoes, diced (I used 3 or 4 cherry tomatoes per sandwich)<br />
Fresh Basil (1 bunch, diced)<br />
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Utensils: 2 cast iron skillets or heavy pans, the largest canned good item from your pantry (35 oz. cans of crushed tomatoes work well, but anything big will be great)<br />
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Slice ciabatta rolls lengthwise, shred/slice cheese & dice tomatoes & basil if necessary. Heat your largest skillet/pan over medium high heat while assembling the sandwiches. Take each piece of ciabatta bread & liberally sprinkle the inside portions with balsamic vinegar. Then, arrange about 1/4 cup of cheese on each 'bottom' piece of bread. Evenly add in tomatoes & top with basil. Add on another 1/4 cup or so of cheese & finish the sandwich with the 'top' piece of bread.<br />
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Carefully place the sandwiches in the largest skillet/pan. <i>You may need to cook these in batches, depending on how large your top skillet/pan is. You need the top skillet to completely cover the sandwiches, so that they can press down the sandwich to melt the cheese & help create a panini effect. </i>Carefully, place your second skillet/pan directly on top of your sandwiches. Place your unopened canned good from the pantry on top of the skillet/pan. This will help press down the sandwich.<br />
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Cook over medium high heat for 1-2 minutes, then very carefully remove the canned good & top skillet, & flip the sandwich over. Replace the top skillet/pan & canned good & cook for another 1-2 minutes. The cheese should be melted completely & the outside of the rolls should be toasted.<br />
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Once the cheese has completely melted, carefully remove the canned good & top skillet. Remove sandwiches from the pan, cut on the diagonal if you wish & serve!HomeMadeAustinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468540496501135513noreply@blogger.com5