Snow Ice Cream

We are home from school again for the third day in a row. I think that I am starting to get a little stir crazy. But, my kids are thrilled to be home to play in the snow another day. Yesterday I mentioned to my neighbor that I planned to try out a recipe for Snow Ice Cream that I had seen floating around on Facebook. He said to me, “I was always told, don't eat the first snow.” I grew up in Maine and I had never heard this before. But, yesterday afternoon when I spoke to my Aunt Shirley, who lives in Deleware, she said the same thing. So I did an internet search on it. Some people say that the first snow contains lots of germs, etc. However, I wasn't able to find any real proof of this.

We made the Snow Ice Cream anyway and we all loved it. We just stirred together the ingredients with a spoon and ate it immediately. I have a feeling my kids will want to make it again today.

Happy Birthday!

This week my oldest celebrated a birthday. For her birthday dinner she requested hot dogs and chips with nacho cheese dip. Not exactly “real” food choices, but I was happy to comply for my birthday girl. And, instead of a traditional cake, she asked for Chocolate Chip Cookies, which were homemade. (I will share my favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe soon.) I think that this was the most simple birthday meal I have ever prepared! And, my birthday girl was thrilled.

New Year's Kitchen Goal

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Last year I shared with you my New Year's Frugal Kitchen Goal. Overall, I feel like I have achieved that goal. However, I have to admit that I abandoned the part of my goal where I aimed to prepare more homemade convenience foods. Although this had worked for me in the past, I felt like it was unrealistic concerning my new family dynamic. 

This year, my goal is a bit different. In 2014, I plan to simplify my time in the kitchen. This means that I would like to cook meals with fewer ingredients, cook/bake less often, and provide school lunches with minimal fuss. Plus, I want to maintain my current grocery budget and my commitment to serving “real” food. 

I have already been prowling around my grocery store looking for new options. Over the last couple of months, I have introduced some new things to my kids and they have been pleased. For example, I have found that my kids really like natural cashews and pistachios. In the past, I had only bought peanuts, almonds, and pecans. 

Do you have some simple recipes or "real" food solutions that your family loves? If so, please share!