Saturday Share Recipe: Perfect for New Year Breakfast

Today's Saturday Share Recipe is something you might want to make and have ready for the morning of New Year's Day.

That is, unless you plan on going to bed early on New Year's Eve so you won't feel like death warmed over on the first day of the New Year.

Breakfast Granola Crumble Cake is a favorite with all those I personally know with whom I've shared the recipe. It's easy to make and can be served for breakfast or for snacks. Just rumble it in a bowl and pour milk over it or eat it like a granola bar.

You can even freeze portions in zipper storage bags and heat in the microwave before serving.

I posted it on Smart Girls Read Romance blog and thought I'd post it here so you could whip up a batch to have a no-brainer breakfast on New Year's Day.

Breakfast Granola Crumble Cake

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup molasses
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
4 eggs
1 cup whole wheat flour and 1 cup APC flour (or use 2 cups APC flour)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup Bob's Red Mill Wheat Germ (order from Amazon or find at your local store)
1 cup uncooked rolled oats
1 cup raisins or dried cranberries or other dried fruit of your choice (I actually put in 1/2 cup each of dried apples and raisins)
1 cup coarsely chopped nuts (your choice, I use pecans)

Instructions

1. Prepare a 13" x 9" x 2" rectangular baking dish with baking spray and preheat oven to 350 degrees F. (177 degrees Celsius)
2. Cream butter until fluffy then beat in molasses and sugar.
3. Beat in the eggs and mix into the butter mixture.
4. Stir flours, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl and add a litt at a time, mixing well after each.
5. Add the wheat germ, oats, dried fruit, and nuts, mixing well after each addition.
6. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake 20 to 30 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and cool in the pan.
8. When cool, cut into 2-inch squares, split, and butter. Serve as a granola square or crumble into a bowl and serve with milk.

Takeaway Truth

Are you doing the 24 for 24? If you haven't heard of it, it's simply making a list of 24 things you want to do in 2024. I'll be blogging about that on New Year's Day so stop by and see what I plan to do. Also, enter my January 2024 Giveaway for a $5.00 Amazon Gift Card. Details given in the January 1, 2024, post.

Joan participates in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising designed to help websites earn advertising fees by linking to products on Amazon. If you click links in her post, she may receive a small commision at no extra cost to you.

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Retailer for AlphaSmart

I don't think I followed up on my post about my quest for a replacement AlphaSmart 3000.

I blogged about finding an AlphaSmart 3000 on Amazon in August 2022. I ended up returning that device to Amazon for a refund.

(TIP: Never buy anything from Amazon that doesn't have a free refund policy.)

This past summer, I found another AlphaSmart 3000  on a website called Porter Electronics for $99.00. 

(This is not a sponsored post for Porter Electronics. I bought an AlphaSmart 3000 from them and am happy to tell others about it.)

You may think $99.00 is a bit high for a refurbished device that doesn't even surf the web, but, in my opinion, the AlphaSmart is a writer's best friend.

Why Buy an AlphaSmart?

If you want to know why I wanted to replace a 20-year old device that died, read my August post.

When I received the AlphaSmart I'd purchased, I didn't get around to using it until a couple of months ago. (Long boring story. I was sick—blah, blah, blah.) I was surprised that it looked new and performed like new which is why I thought I'd do a followup post today.

Unlike laptops or notebooks, this baby is easy to fit into a purse or tote bag without worrying you might bang it around and damage it. It's rugged and saves what you input without having to click Save, runs almost forever on AA batteries, and most importantly, isn't dependent on WiFi/internet or the Cloud. It connects via a USB cable to my computer so I can easily download what I've written.

I find it's so much easier to use than a notebook or tablet when riding in the passenger seat as we travel. I can pound out a chapter in the time it takes us to get from our house in Houston to our house in the country.

If you're looking for an AlphaSmart 3000 or similar, haunt the Porter Electronics website. Today, there are 3 AlphaSmarts on there: 1 AlphaSmart 3000, 1 AlphaSmart Neo, and 1 AlphaSmart Neo2.

Takeaway Truth

When you want something, it pays to be patient and persistent and to pass the information on when you find something that's good.

Joan participates in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising designed to help websites earn advertising fees by linking to products on Amazon. If you click links in her post, she may receive a small commision at no extra cost to you.

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A Christmas Card for the World

This year raced through my life like a comet flashing across a night sky. Before I knew it, Christmas Eve was here. 

The year held many challenges including nearly mourning the loss of my dear sister-in-law and three months this summer of sickness for me. I'm still trying to catch up on, well, just about everything. I think my year is best characterized by the phrase, "Better late than never.”

In the Holiday Letter I send with Christmas cards—completed yesterday—I enclosed this bit of advice that I want to share with you.

Be brave. Be bold. Love deeply. Laugh often. Think optimistically.

Accept the past, but do not let it limit your future.

You are a child of God and have the right to be happy, healthy, and successful.

Love yourself because you are lovable and worthy of being loved.

 If you ever feel down and discouraged, tell yourself these magic words,

“I am worthy. I love myself and others love me. I love my life.”

Make those words your mantra by saying them often.

Like the pastor at our church always says in benediction,

“Go in Peace. Love God. Serve His Children.”

Takeaway Truth

Thank you for reading SlingWords, buying my books, and reviewing them. I'm truly grateful for your support. Merry Christmas—and Happy Holidays to those who celebrate differently.

Bookworm's Guide to Organizing and Showcasing Book Collections

Today's post is by Emily Watson, a bibliophile and organizational enthusiast, who shares her expertise in curating and presenting book collections.

Drawing from her love for literature and interior design, she offers practical advice and creative ideas to help fellow book lovers beautifully organize and display their cherished reads.

Enjoy transforming your space into a reader's haven!

9 ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR ORGANIZING AND SHOWCASING BOOK COLLECTIONS

For every passionate bookworm, their collection is not just an assembly of books but a cherished treasure trove of knowledge, adventures, and memories. Each book, whether a dog-eared paperback or a leather-bound classic, holds a special place.

However, the challenge for many book lovers isn't just accumulating books; it's about presenting them in a way that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing. To truly honor your collection, you need to follow certain guidelines. This guide will delve into eight valuable tips for organizing and showcasing book collections in your home, ensuring your personal library is both a reflection of your love for reading and a practical space for enjoyment.

1. Categorize with Care

Organizing your books starts with categorizing them thoughtfully. Think of your bookshelves as a mini-library where finding a book should be intuitive and simple. Group your books by genre, author, or even color, depending on your preference.

No matter the size of your collection,

careful categorization makes navigating

and enjoying each book effortless.

For a visually appealing shelf, mix different book sizes and orientations.

You can place larger, heavier books on the bottom shelves for stability and smaller, lighter ones at the top.

This not only makes your collection easy to navigate but also transforms it into a visually captivating display.

2. Maximize Space Creatively

Limited space shouldn't limit your book collection. Utilize vertical space by installing shelves up to the ceiling, and consider wall-mounted shelves to free up floor space. 

Corner shelves can turn an unused nook into a cozy reading spot. If you're a fan of eBooks, dedicating a digital tablet or e-reader solely for reading can save physical space for those special print editions you treasure.

3. Incorporate Personal Touches

Your book collection is a reflection of your personality. So don't be afraid to scatter personal items like photos, souvenirs, or art pieces among the books. This not only breaks the monotony of rows of books but also gives your visitors a glimpse into your world. A shelf with a mix of books and personal items becomes more than just storage – it's a story in itself.

4. Lighting Matters

Good lighting enhances the appeal of your book collection. Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Strategically placed lamps can highlight specific sections of your library, while softer, ambient light provides a comfortable environment for reading.

5. Create a Reading Nook

Every book lover dreams of a perfect reading spot. Choose a comfortable chair, add a plush throw, and ensure there's ample light. Place a small table nearby to hold a cup of tea or coffee. This dedicated space will not only showcase your love for books but also invite you to spend more time reading.

A cozy reading nook, an essential part of organizing

and showcasing book collections, invites

immersion into literary worlds.

6. Seasonal Themes and Sounds

One creative way of organizing and showcasing book collections is to embrace seasonal themes in your display.

As the seasons change, rotate your books to reflect the time of year, like showcasing bright, airy novels in the summer or cozy, atmospheric reads during winter.

This is also the perfect time to organize your collection while listening to timeless summer hits, adding a fun and relaxing backdrop to the task. It's a delightful way to engage with your collection regularly, keeping your love for books alive and ever-evolving.

 

7. Maintenance is Key

Regularly dust and care for your books to keep them in good condition. Avoid placing books in direct sunlight to prevent fading. If you love lending books, consider creating a simple check-out system to keep track of them. A well-maintained collection is not just about aesthetics; it's about preserving your books for future generations.

 

8. Prepare for the Future

As your collection grows, it's wise to think about how to prepare your home library for relocation or reorganization. Knowing how to pack books for a move is crucial. Use sturdy boxes and pack books tightly to prevent damage. Label each box with the content and room destination for easy unpacking.

Maintaining your books in prime condition is vital,

ensuring they remain vibrant and inviting for years to come.

Your Personal Library: A Lasting Impression

 Creating an inviting and well-organized book collection is a rewarding endeavor. It's not just about storage; it's about crafting a space that inspires and delights.

Whether it's a book that makes you sit and write a glowing online review or a rare find at a second-hand bookstore, each book in your collection has a story. 

By organizing and showcasing book collections with care, you're not just arranging pages and covers; you're creating an environment that celebrates the joy of reading. Remember, your library is a testament to your journey through the world of literature – make it uniquely yours.

Photographs Used and Provided by Post Author

https://unsplash.com/photos/books-on-shelf-G-4wX5tZNuE

https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-finding-some-book-to-read-mbKApJz6RSU

https://unsplash.com/photos/photo-of-gel-candle-on-board-beside-pillow-u_z0X-yrJIE

https://unsplash.com/photos/books-on-brown-wooden-shelf-Ik8hRvVQzFo

Takeaway Truth

Thanks to Emily Watson for today's post. I love content that's clear and concise, don't you? Be sure and leave a comment if you reorganize your home library following Emily's tips.

Make Me, New Release by Bonnie Edwards

One of my favorite authors, Bonnie Edwards, has a new book that published this week. (Links to Amazon in other countries can be found at the end of this post.) 

Make Me, a Last Chance Beach Romance, is based on the single parent trope, or theme. One reason it attracts readers is because the parents in the story are usually older than early 20s.

Why Readers Love Single Parent Romance

If you think readers who want to be parents are the target audience, you're only partly correct. Readers who are already parents love these romances because they like seeing parents get a happily ever after.

About MAKE ME

The worst thing that could happen to a man who doesn’t want children is to inherit two little boys. The next worst thing would be to have a nanny with a child of her own.

Archie Jones, a wealthy playboy who’s never stayed more than two weeks in any one place finds himself saddled with an old friend’s four- and six-year-old boys.

When his brother suggests desperate Archie hire his wife’s sister, Archie can’t say no.

Equally desperate Beth Matthews is appalled that a man who can’t remember her name, or show up for family events, is now responsible for the lives of two adorable orphans. When he proposes she join him in a co-parenting partnership, she’s torn between her dislike of the man and the obvious needs of the children. Not to mention she’s a broke single mom with an explosive secret.

In this forced proximity, enemies-to-lovers romance set in the charming beach town of Last Chance Beach Archie and Beth must find a way to compromise, live together, and always put the needs of their children first.

Archie soon learns he’s underestimated mousy Beth while she finds new appreciation for the footloose man who does all he can to build a loving family despite his many failings.

But when Archie suddenly abandons them, will Beth have faith in the changes she’s seen in him or will she believe he’s returned to his wandering ways?

In Last Chance Beach love always finds a way.

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bonnie Edwards has been writing all her life, starting with a poem about Santa suffering with gout. She was seven, Santa was a thousand years old.

Delighted with writing, she went on to write family sagas, humorous contemporary romance, romantic suspense, erotic paranormal ghost romances and more.

Published by Kensington Books, Harlequin Books, Carina Press, and Robinson (UK) Bonnie’s stories stretch from short stories to novellas and novels. Now, she’s happy to be publishing her work herself.

With 40+ titles to her credit, she has been translated into several languages and sold books worldwide.

Learn about more exciting releases and get a free romance by subscribing to her newsletter, Bonnie’s Newsy Bits

Cheers and happy reading!

Follow Bonnie Online: 

Amazon 

Website 

BookBub 

Facebook 

Instagram

MAKE ME AT KINDLE SHOPS

USA - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP8GRC1F

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CP8GRC1F

Canada - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CP8GRC1F

Australia - https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CP8GRC1F

MAKE ME AT OTHER ONLINE BOOKSHOPS

Apple

 Nook

 Kobo & More

TAKEAWAY TRUTH

I've got my copy of Make Me loaded in my Kindle. I'll be posting a review in a few days. The weekend is here so do yourself a favor and grab a copy of Bonnie's new book today.

Joan participates in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising designed to help websites earn advertising fees by linking to products on Amazon. If you click links in her post, she may receive a small commision at no extra cost to you.

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Saturday Share Recipe - Beverage Gift Mixes in Jars

Some people started shopping back in the summer with the first Amazon Prime Day specials.

Some love to hit the stores to shop for holiday presents.

Then there are those who really like to give something from their home and heart—sharing a recipe with a gift in a jar, or in fancy holiday containers that can be purchased just about anywhere.

Gifts like this are delightful because you don't have to worry if the recipient has one like it already, and the recipient doesn't end up with something they don't want or need but feel as if they have to keep it. 

Today, I'm offering 2 beverage mixe recipes that are easy to make and delicious. You'll need glass jars with well-fitting lids, plastic containers, bags, or boxes.

It's also nice to use holiday fabric, ribbon, and cards and/or envelopes for ingredient lists and instructions which you'll handwrite or print on cardstock or paper and tuck into a small envelope tied to the gift.

Christmas Cappuccino Mix

Ingredients

8 ounces of instant coffee granules (Choose Starbucks Premium Instant Coffee or the low-cost alternative Great Value Classic Roast Instant Coffee from WalMart which was rated by Tasting Table as 1 of the 13 best instant coffees.)

16 ounces of Laird Superfood Vanilla Creamer (On Amazon, this non-GMO, vegan choice is $14.24 each. You can select a much less expensive vanilla nondairy creamer of your choice.)

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 cup powdered sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

(1) Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Spoon into a clean 1 quart jar and cover tightly with a lid. Cut a circle of holiday fabric with pinking sheers and tie onto the neck of the jar. Attach a card with the ingredients on one side and instructions for making a cup of the cappuccino on the other side.

Instructions: Cup of Cinnamon Vanilla  Cappuccino

Spoon 2 tablespoons of the mix into a mug. Add 6 to 8 ounces of boiling water. Stir. Add a cinnamon stick for garnish if you wish. Enjoy! 

Mistletoe Mocha Mix

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups nonfat dry milk powder

1 1/3 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup chocolate nondairy creamer (Nestle Chocolate Creme Coffeemate)

1/3 cup Hershey's Cocoa Powder

1/4 ccup instant coffee granules

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Spoon into a clean 1 quart jar. Cover tightly with a lid. Cut a circle of holiday fabric with pinking sheers and tie onto the neck of the jar. Attach a card with the ingredients on one side and instructions for making a cup of the cappuccino on the other side.

Instructions: Cup of Mistletoe Mocha

Place 1/3 cup of the mix into a mug. Add 6 to 8 ounces of boiling water. Stir well, sip, enjoy!

Takeaway Truth

In families where kids and grandkids have everything they need, a gift like this is a welcome surprise because it shows you took time, the most precious commodity of all, to create something just for them.

Joan participates in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising designed to help websites earn advertising fees by linking to products on Amazon. If you click links in her post, she may receive a small commision at no extra cost to you.

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Friday Facts About December

On the first day of December, I'm serving up some fun facts about this month.

1. December is the 12th month in our modern Gregorian calendar, and it was also the last month in the former Julian calendar, but it's name derives from Latin for 10, not 12.

That's because in the Roman calendar which preceded the Julian, there were only 10 months with December being the last month hence it's Latin name for 10th.

2. Another fun fact, the winter months actually didn't have names because there was little military, agricultural, or civilian activity then. Calendars were set up to mark events in those areas as well as in civilian life.ve time for military, agriculture, or civil life.

3. Weather folklore about December says if there's frost on the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, that the winter will be a hard one.

4. On December 13, if the sky is clear, go outside that night and look up. You might be able to see the Geminid meteor shower.

5. Anglo-Saxons of old called December Winter Monath or Yule Monath. Obviously, Monath meant month. When they all converted to Christianity, they renamed the month Heligh Monath, meaning Holy Month.

Takeaway Truth

Everyone is always super busy in December. Try to take time each day to appreciate the quiet moments in life. Enjoy each and every day and look forward rather than backward.

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Celebrate Stay Home Because You're Well Day

Today is a long-awaited special day—drumroll please—Stay Home Because You're Well Day.

I'm not making that up. It really is a named special day, and I hope you're able to celebrate it.

Most of us who work in a job away from home only stay home if they're sick. You never have the luxury of just taking a day off to rest, relax, and regenerate.

I guess that's why this day was created by Thomas and Ruth Roy who have created several rather silly "special" days to celebrate.

According to the entity that knows all, Google, the couple urges everyone to "call in well" today. I guess for most who can take a day off when they need one that would be taking a vacation day.

If you can do that, go for it. Call if a mental vacation day, self-help day, or just an escape from the never ending emails, texts, phone calls, etc. If you're already at work, maybe you can take the afternoon off.

How to Celebrate

Do sleep late or take a nap at some point.

Do have coffee with a friend or loved one.

Do visit someone you haven't seen in a while.

Do watch a movie you've been wanting to see.

Do read a book.

Do take a walk or engage in some kind of phyical activity you normally don't have time for.

Do NOT go shopping. Why set yourself for that exhaustion?

Do NOT go on social media. Take a true mental health break from the crazies.

Do NOT answer emails that may be upsetting. You know the kind I mean.

By the way, if you want to read a book that will make you smile, try JUST ONE LOOK, a zany romantic comedy that's on sale for only 99¢.

Takeaway Truth

Since it's a cold, rainy day here on the Gulf Coast, I think staying at home is a grand idea. Whatever you do, enjoy the day!

Joan participates in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising designed to provide a way for websites to earn advertising fees by linking to products on Amazon. If you click links in her post, she may receive a small commision at no extra cost to you.

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Holiday Gifts for Barbie Fans

Barbie is back!

Truthfully, she never went away and has been part of pop culture since she was introduced back in 1959.

Women in their 70's love Barbie as much as little girls today. That's why the Barbie movie this past summer was such a big hit.

Smart marketing has kept Barbie viable during the new millennium, i.e., the image of a woman who can be glamorous, beautiful, smart, popular, rich, and happy.

In other words, Barbie has it all, and that's something women want even though it's impossible to attain.

The movie's popularity has given birth to countless products for those who adore Barbie. Here are a few gift ideas found on Amazon for the Barbie fan in your life.

These 3 items—that come in many different styles and designs—are just the tip of the Barbie iceberg. 

Barbie Pink and Magenta Crystal Martini Glasses

I have to admit these are pretty, and they're embellished with the signature Barbie branding. This set of 2 martini glasses is $44.99 and qualifies for Prime shipping.

Barbie Socks for Women

There are all kinds of Barbie socks for women. I think I'll be ordering some of these for a special young lady.

Barbie T-shirts for Women and Girls

"Come on, Barbie, Let's Go Party" tee comes in white, black, and pink.

TAKEAWAY TRUTH

There are coffee mugs, insulated carry cups, games, shirts, shoes, jewelry, books, and so much more as well as dolls for those who play or for those who collect.

Barbie is here to stay!

Joan participates in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising designed to provide a way for websites to earn advertising fees by linking to products on Amazon. If you click links in her post, she may receive a small commision at no extra cost to you.

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Go For Cyber Monday?

Hurray! Cyber Monday is here!

What's that you say? You're exhausted from online bargain shopping? I hear you, sister.

It seems as if the Christmas holiday sales started with Amazon's second Prime Day back in October. At that same time, other big retailers had big sales.

November rolls around and Black Friday started a week before Thanksgiving and continues until the 29th.

So why Cyber Monday?

Tradition? Maybe. Or a last ditch effort to tap those shoppers who abstained from the previous 8 weeks of special price sales.

Personally, I can't think of anything else to buy. My list has already been completed.

Then I saw these Swarovsky Pink Crystal earrings. 

To Bling Or Not To Bling

Oh, dear. They're on sale for $80.69, and I know someone who loves pink stones as well as Swarovsky Crystal anything.

All of those darling pieces of jewelry are on sale. Oh, my. What to do, what to do? I guess I will be shopping Cyber Monday today after all, but not for anything techie. Going for the bling.

TAKEAWAY TRUTH

When I was in Hong Kong many years ago on the street lined with businesses that sold loose gemstones, there was a sign in the store where I was buying a couple of emeralds and some small diamonds. "Go broke saving money."

Oh, what wisdom there is in those five words.

Joan participates in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising designed to provide a way for websites to earn advertising fees by linking to products on Amazon. If you click links in her post, she may receive a small commision at no extra cost to you.

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Holiday Mystery: Where Did November Go?

Yes, that's a real mystery? Where did November go? For that matter, where did 2023 go?

The days, weeks, and months seemed to disappear faster than one can turn the pages of a calendar.

Like Dr. Seuss said:

"How did it get so late so soon? It’s night before it’s afternoon. December is here before it’s June. My goodness how the time has flewn. How did it get so late so soon?"

Seriously, I'm beginning to think the days are passing at warp speed. What if I go to sleep tonight, wake up tomorrow, and it's Christmas Eve?

Yikes! Give us a break Father Time! By the way, why is it Father Time? Why not Mother Time? She might be more benevolent. 

Time waits for no one. Time flies. Yada yada yada. Forget about the time that has already passed. Charles F. Kettering said, "You can’t have a better tomorrow if you are thinking about yesterday all the time."

TAKEAWAY TRUTH

Regretting the wasted time is simply a great way to waste more time. You can't make up for time you lost. Just plan to use your time more effectively and efficiently in the future. Now that's a good thought to start the new week.

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Saturday Share Recipe - Hot Pot Medley

Do you still have Thanksgiving leftover turkey, ham, or roast beef in the fridge?

You served leftovers yesterday. Today you may make sandwiches, stew, or chowder, but there will still be leftover meat hanging out in the fridge?

Don't despair, and don't throw it out because you're already tired of eating it.

The best thing about leftovers is that they can be transformed into something new and delicious.

Here's a recipe that's a quadruple threat: (1) it uses leftover meat (2) it tastes delicious (3) it's easy to make (4) it can be prepared, frozen, and defrosted at a future date when you want a hot meal but you're too tired to cook.

Hot Pot Medley (Serves 6-8)

Ingredients - Meat

2 cups turkey, ham, or beef, trimmed and diced

Ingredients - Vegetables

1 medium to large onion, diced

2 carrots, sliced

1 -2 stalks celery (depends on how well you like celery) sliced

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon ground bllack pepper

1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/8 teaspoon Tabasco (only is you like it spicy)

3 sliced potatoes (like you'd cut for scalloped potatoes)

Ingredients - Liquid 

1 1/2 - 2 cups leftover gravy for turkey or beef. For ham, use a cheese sauce, bechamel, or mushroom sauce. You can use cream condensed soup mixed with milk if you don't object to those or an Organic Alfredo Sauce mix.

Not enough leftover gravy? Make more using a mix like Organic Turkey Gravy Mix or the beef version from Amazon.

Directions

(1) Spray a casserole dish with a baking spray or butter the dish.

(2) Preheat oven to 350 Fahrenheit (approximately 177 Celsius).

(3) In a large bowl, mix the meat and vegetables—except potatoes—together.

(4) Sprinkle the seasonings over the mixture and pour into the prepared baking dish.

(5) Layer the thinly-sliced potatoes over the top of th mixture

(6) Pour the gravy over everything in the dish.

(7) Bake at 350 Fahrenheit (approximately 177 Celsius) for 35 minutes.

By the way, I have fancy baking dishes, but I usually use the plain glass ones with snap-on plastic tops like the ones shown here.

They're rectangular and take up less space than round ones, and they go from freezer to oven (but not the lids!!) and are dishwasher safe. Since they're clear, I can also see when the sauce begins "bubbling" while baking.

Amazon has this 8-piece set on a Cyber Monday deal. The set with plain gray top is around $35. The colored tops cost a little more.

To Freeze for Later Baking

(1) Put the whole thing together except for the potato layer and the gravy or sauce.

(2) Place the dish into a freezer storage bag or use heavy duty aluminum foil to wrap completely around the dish and seal the foil properly. Also freeze the leftover gravy if that's what you're using for the liquid component.

(3)  When ready to serve it, thaw and remove the dish and the sauce.

(4) Place sliced potatoes on top, pour the gravy or sauce you've made over the potatoes.

(5) Bake as directed above.

Takeaway Truth

Leftovers are a great thing for a busy cook. A little time space from the original serving of the item and a little transformation make for a great new meal.

A 99¢ Escape

If you're tired and need a break, grab a copy of a romantic comedy that's on sale until the end of November.

JUST ONE LOOK (a KU free read for subscribers) will make you smile and lift your spirits.

Joan participates in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising designed to help websites earn advertising fees by linking to products on Amazon. If you click links in her post, she may receive a small commision at no extra cost to you.

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Black Friday Specials for Readers

Image by Basim Miller of Pixabay

Once upon a time, I avoided Black Friday sales. I'm not much for the pushing and shoving of crowds all looking to score bargains—not to mention the whole driving around and searching for a parking spot.

Backstory of Black Friday

When online shopping began, I changed my mind about Black Friday, now a national shopping day that was named by the Philadelphia police back in the 1950s when they noticed the huge crowds who came to the city the day after Thanksgiving simply to shop.

Black Friday Ongoing

Since Amazon and other retailers started Black Friday early this year, it's lost a little of its impact. I've already completed my post-Thanksgiving shopping.

Sales continue until the 27th I believe, but here are a few things I think Readers would be especially interested in.

Black Friday Specials for Readers

The Amazon Fire 7 Tablet is about the best bargain I've found. It has over 12,000 reviews averaging 4.5 stars. Fits in your hand and perfect for kids. Parental controls available.

You can read ebooks with it and go online too. This model is an unbelievable $39.95 and has a 10-hour battery life and 16 gb of storage.

You can get this tablet in black, denim, and rose. This one displays ads on the lockscreen. If you want a model without the ads, the cost increases to $54.99.

Amazon Fire 8HD

If you want one for yourself, this is the perfect model for streaming, reading ebooks, checking social media, etc. It's lightweight and has 13 hours of battery life and can have the storage upgraded.

Kindle Ereader

If you want a dedicated ereader that has a built-in light, this is the latest version and a great buy at $99.99 for the version with lockscreen ads. Without lockscreen ads, you'll pay $119.99. A single charge lasts weeks, not hours. It comes in black and denim, and you can get a discount if you trade in an older Kindle.

Relax on Black Friday

JUST ONE LOOK, my first bestseller on Amazon that sold more than 50,000 copies the year it was published on Kindle, is on sale now for 99¢.

(I think it sold almost twice that many, but I don't have time to go check my old spreadsheet.)

"This story gripped me and didn't let go. I finished it in five hours! It was fast-paced and filled with emotion and very HOT moments.  The hero -- Matt -- is delicious and sweet. Very enjoyable read." 5 Stars —MWatson Review

Check back daily because I'll have sales throughout the rest of the year on my books and books by author friends.

Takeaway Truth

I hope you grab some of the Black Friday bargains to enhance your reading time. If you read one of my holiday books, please do me a favor and leave a review—just a couple of sentences saying what you liked about the story. Happy bargain shopping.

 Joan participates in Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising designed to help websites earn advertising fees by linking to products on Amazon. If you click links in her post, she may receive a small commision at no extra cost to you.

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