Nancy Naigle's Blog, page 5
December 1, 2024
Novel Recipes from Nancy
This recipe is straight from the pages of my newest Christmas release,
CHRISTMAS IN CHESTNUT RIDGE.
Ingredients
16 oz. block of extra-sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
2 cups crisp rice cereal
Optional: Ground cayenne pepper, Tajin, or diced jalapeño peppers for extra kick.
Directions
Preheat the Oven to 350°F.
Grate the Cheese (yes, the entire block of cheddar by hand) Freshly grated cheese makes all the difference. Don’t shortcut the star of this recipe.
Mix the Dough in a large bowl, combine the grated cheese, butter, flour, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and any spices you like. Mix until the dough forms a ball, pulling in all the flour.
Fold in the Cereal gently to avoid crushing them. This is the secret to that extra-crispy texture.
Shape the Crisps into 1-inch balls and place them about 1 inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
Flatten the Balls with a fork in a crisscross pattern, or however you like.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until firm.
Cool crisps on baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve with a hot bowl of tomato soup or as a delightful snack on their own.
Bonus Idea These also freeze well, so keep some on hand for that last-minute hostess gift. Store in an airtight container and pair with a jar of candied bacon jelly or make a spread by mixing pepper jelly with cream cheese.
November 26, 2024
RECIPE: Left-overs OR Plan-overs
Call me crazy, but sometimes I like to plan my leftovers. Especially, following these big traditional meals when I know there'll be plenty of extras to deal with.
Here is one of my favorite Plan-overs for Thanksgiving turkey. In my opinion, you can't beat a good turkey sandwich for leftovers, but here's a soup with a mexican twist that will please your tastebuds in those days after.
TURKEY TACO SOUP
A quick Turkey Taco Soup that’s perfect from Thanksgiving leftovers and few kitchen staples. Switch it up with some of the optional suggestions for a nice change of pace with Mexican flavor. And the best part? This soup only takes 30 minutes to make!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
3 cups cooked turkey, shredded light or dark meat
6 cups chicken or turkey broth
1 cup water
1 can diced tomatoes or RoTel
1/2 tablespoon cumin to add a smoky taste
2 Tbs taco seasoning
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can corn, drained
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
juice of half of a lime
salt and pepper
Tortilla chips or strips
OPTIONAL: Diced jalapenos
Chopped onions
Can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Container of Pico de Gallo
Get creative!
Instructions
1. Add ingredients to large saucepan. Simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and add in cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and garnish tortilla strips.
Optional garnish:
a. Fresh cilantro
b. Sour cream
c. Diced avacado or scoop of guacamole
d. Shredded cheese
e. Chopped green onions
I hope you enjoy this quick and easy plan-over.
Nancy
Left-overs OR Plan-overs
Call me crazy, but sometimes I like to plan my leftovers. Especially, following these big traditional meals when I know there'll be plenty of extras to deal with.
Here is one of my favorite Plan-overs for Thanksgiving turkey. In my opinion, you can't beat a good turkey sandwich for leftovers, but here's a soup with a mexican twist that will please your tastebuds in those days after.
TURKEY TACO SOUP
A quick Turkey Taco Soup that’s perfect from Thanksgiving leftovers and few kitchen staples. Switch it up with some of the optional suggestions for a nice change of pace with Mexican flavor. And the best part? This soup only takes 30 minutes to make!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
3 cups cooked turkey, shredded light or dark meat
6 cups chicken or turkey broth
1 cup water
1 can diced tomatoes or RoTel
1/2 tablespoon cumin to add a smoky taste
2 Tbs taco seasoning
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can corn, drained
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
juice of half of a lime
salt and pepper
Tortilla chips or strips
OPTIONAL: Diced jalapenos
Chopped onions
Can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Container of Pico de Gallo
Get creative!
Instructions
1. Add ingredients to large saucepan. Simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and add in cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and garnish tortilla strips.
Optional garnish:
a. Fresh cilantro
b. Sour cream
c. Diced avacado or scoop of guacamole
d. Shredded cheese
e. Chopped green onions
I hope you enjoy this quick and easy plan-over.
Nancy
7-Day Gratitude Walk - DAY SEVEN
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✨ Welcome to day seven of our 7-Day Gratitude Journey! ✨
Day 7: Gratitude for Nature
Each day's prompt has meant to combine reflection, an actionable tip, and something tangible to engage with. I hope you've found this journey both meaningful and fun!
PART ONE of TWO
Question/Statement: What in nature do you feel most connected to, and how does it uplift you?
Tip: Spend 10 minutes outside, focusing on one thing you're grateful for, like the crisp air or golden leaves, bird watching, or watching the clouds go by.
I have always felt connected to the stars. If there's the slightest chance to see meteor showers, I'll set my alarm and go outside in the middle of the night to capture a glimpse of those shooting stars.
Another is lightning bugs, or fireflies, depending on where you're from. I can sit and watch them light up for hours. Did you know there are different colored lights in some regions? It's true. I'm from Virginia and we see lightning bugs flash not only the common yellow, but also blue, white, orange, green, and even a reddish color.
The most rare lightning bug is the blue ghost firefly. These rare fireflies emit a steady, eerie blue light instead of blinking. They can be found in the Appalachian Mountains.
Unlike other fireflies, blue ghost females don't fly, but instead stay on the forest floor and glow faintly.
Share your love for nature with someone today.
PART TWO OF TWO
Add-On:
Simple Craft: Nature Pressed-Leaf Bookmarks
Collect fallen leaves during a nature walk.
Press them between heavy books for a few days until flat and dry.
Decoupage to cardstock with watered-down white glue, or decoupage media.
Punch a hole for a ribbon.
Each time you use the bookmark, reflect on the beauty of nature.
Easy Recipe: Herbal Infused Water
Combine fresh mint, slices of cucumber, and lemon wedges in a pitcher of water.
Let it infuse for an hour, then serve for a simple way to celebrate nature’s bounty while staying hydrated.
As we wrap up this 7-day gratitude journey, I hope it’s brought you moments of reflection, joy, and connection. Whether you’re surrounded by many or spending the day in quiet solitude this Thanksgiving, may your heart be full of thankfulness for the blessings big and small.
Remember, gratitude is a gift we give ourselves—it turns the simplest of days into something extraordinary.
Wishing you a beautiful, thank-filled Thanksgiving filled with warmth, love, and peace.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Nancy
#GratitudeJourney #ThankfulHeart #CountdownToThanksgiving #Grateful
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November 25, 2024
7-Day Gratitude Walk - DAY SIX
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✨ Welcome to day six of our 7-Day Gratitude Journey! ✨
Day 6: Gratitude for Relationships
PART ONE of TWO
Question/Statement: Who has been your biggest supporter, and how can you show them gratitude this week?
Tip: Call for no reason. Plan a simple gesture of appreciation, like making their favorite dessert or spending quality time together.
PART TWO OF TWO
Add-On:
When we talk about relationships, it's natural to think of our spouse, best friends and family, but don't ignore other important relationships in your life.
Take a moment to extend your thoughts past your family tree and your best friends.
Other relationships we sometimes take for granted are:
The Mentor or Teacher Relationship
These individuals guide us, share their wisdom, and inspire us to grow, whether professionally, academically, or personally.
The Neighbor Relationship
Friendly neighbors can create a sense of community and belonging. They’re often there for casual chats or help in emergencies, yet their role in our lives can go unnoticed.
The Service Provider Relationship
People we see regularly, like baristas, mail carriers, or hairstylists, often bring consistency and small joys to our routines.
The Co-Worker or Work Acquaintance Relationship
These are the people we spend significant time with, sharing professional goals and challenges. They may not always become close friends, but they contribute to our work-life environment and well-being.
The Self Relationship
It's easy to put ourselves last when we're taking care of others, or we are busy, but the relationship with ourselves is fundamental. Taking time to nurture self-awareness, self-care, and self-compassion is crucial for overall well-being and balance.
Don't forget to add these people to your gratitude journal today.
I can't believe we only have one more day together,
Nancy
#GratitudeJourney #ThankfulHeart #CountdownToThanksgiving #Grateful
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November 24, 2024
7-Day Gratitude Walk - DAY FIVE
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✨ Welcome to day five of our 7-Day Gratitude Journey! ✨
Day 5: Gratitude for Small Joys
PART ONE of TWO
Question/Statement: What small, everyday thing brings you joy?
Tip: Don't overthink this. For me, it's the time my mom and I sit and enjoy a cup of coffee. No matter how busy I get, we take that time to ground ourselves for the day and be thankful for each other. Maybe for you it's getting that little nose nudge from your dog.
Spend a moment to smile and appreciate that small thing.
PART TWO OF TWO
Add-On:
Start a gratitude journal. It can be a sheet of paper or a flashy journal, but no matter what it's made of let it have a moment of your weekly schedule to reflect on old entries, put stars to the ones that are still bringing you joy and adding new ones.
Looking forward to catching up tomorrow—thank you for being my partner in gratitude,
Nancy
#GratitudeJourney #ThankfulHeart #CountdownToThanksgiving #Grateful
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November 23, 2024
7-Day Gratitude Walk - DAY FOUR
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✨ Welcome to day four of our 7-Day Gratitude Journey! ✨
Day 4: Gratitude for Challenges
PART ONE of TWO
Question/Statement: What is one challenge you've faced in the past few years and what has it taught you?
Tip: Write a letter to yourself, or sit quietly and meditate about how you've grown through that experience.
Stick with me on this one. I realize that challenges...well they are challenging!
But with enough time and thoughtful consideration, we can generally see that we've learned something during those difficult times that has made us better prepared, wiser, more empathetic, maybe even healthier.
PART TWO OF TWO
Add-On:
I love this Add-on. A gratitude wreath is a simple, heartfelt craft that’s perfect for this season of thankfulness! ✨ I'm going to teach you how to make a gratitude wreath. Don't think you have to do it alone. You can get the whole family involved.
What you'll need:
Any wreath
Strips of paper
Markers or pens
Optional Individually wrapped Candy Canes
Optional Clear Tape
Hang a holiday wreath on a door somewhere in your home. Write the things you are grateful for on the strips of paper. It might be a line or two about a specific thing, or it can be one word. Family. Health. Work. You get the idea.
Go simple and scroll the note and tuck it into the wreath.
OR...
Wrap the note around a candy cane, tape it to secure it, then tuck the candy cane into the wreath. At first glance, it's just a wreath with candy canes, but when the going gets tough, or you or a special someone needs a positive nudge, pull out one of those candy canes and be inspired and grateful over the thoughtful note.
I can't wait to hear how things are going.
Looking forward to catching up tomorrow—thank you for being my partner in gratitude,
Nancy
#GratitudeJourney #ThankfulHeart #CountdownToThanksgiving #Grateful #WriterGIrl
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November 22, 2024
7-Day Gratitude Walk - DAY THREE
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✨ Welcome to day three of our 7-Day Gratitude Journey! ✨
Day 3: Gratitude for Community
PART ONE of TWO
Question/Statement: Who in your community has made a positive impact on your life?
Tip: Write a thank-you note or text someone who has inspired or helped you. Your mailman, neighbor, a favorite waitress, or maybe your pastor. It could even be calling someone you haven't talked to in years.
PART TWO OF TWO
Add-On:
Deliver the thank-you with a tasty treat. It doesn't have to be more than 5-6 cookies on a little plate to be pretty. Your family recipe or slice-and-bake treats will do.
Have a joyful day,
Nancy
#GratitudeJourney #ThankfulHeart #CountdownToThanksgiving #Grateful #WriterGIrl
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November 21, 2024
"The Quicker Clicker" Shopping For YOU!
If you're like me this time of year is exciting...but exhausting.
I'm always on a budget, but want to find unique and fun things for the special people in my life. So this year, I'm going to pay it forward. As I find really fun things...I'm going to post them for you. I've employed this guy as my helper. You recognize him, right?
Yes! From A Heartfelt Christmas Promise! Inspired by the old Budweiser commercials with the handsome horse trainer and that trouble-finding puppy. All the warm & fuzzies.
I renamed him "The Quicker Clicker" for this assignment. (He works for bacon bits.)
I'll be adding new things right here on this post as time goes on. So bookmark and come back to see what's new on the list when you're stuck for ideas!
HERE WE GO!
FIRST ON THE LIST....my Santa hat...the one everyone adores that with a sweep of my hand can change the sequins on the front from naughty to nice.
So cute!
You get two sets. One for you and one for a friend! Sharing is caring.
NEXT UP .... perfect for your adult children, your best friends and co-workers and yourself. These whimsical ADULTING checklists are spiral bound and come in a pack of 6 for less than $14 ... so it's one sweet deal. They are only 5x7 so they will fit perfectly in a stocking, or sit nicely atop one of my Christmas novels (hint-hint) as a stackable easy-to-wrap gift.
My very favorite pajama sets and they are on sale!
I hope you catch the deal, but even if you don't SOMA INTIMATES has the best PJs (and you know I know my pajamas!)
Buy the COOL NIGHTS pajama set. You will not be disappointed and if you're in that night-sweat phase of your life...honey, these are your ticket to happiness!
I have to say that the JOYSPUN pajamas that run about $15 are surpringly comfortable and wash well. I have the pink and black "PAJAMAS ALL DAY" set, and I just bought extras. At that price you can't go wrong.
Search your local WalMart for a pair.
Pajamas are always a welcome gift!
Do you have a bunch of people you'd love to do something for? I know...it's hard to figure out. I've done this before and it never gets old. You can give it alone, or add it to a basket of other goodies, but I'm hear to tell you it's always met with appreciation.
Simmering potpourri jars. Here's the link to a 30pk of small mason jars with the 2-pc lids that are a really good deal. A buck a piece. So, this is very budget friendly and can be so pretty.
RECIPE FOR SIMMERING POTPOURRI
Here's my recipe for simmering potpourri. You can mix and match the ingredients to fit your budget and preference. I always add a stick of cinnamon, piece of orange peel, cinnamon candies and a little sprig of pine or fir because it makes it look Christmassy and smells good even if you don't add anything else.
Other beautiful fresh or dried herbs are Star of Anise, basil, thyme, rosemary. Adding fresh cranberries are pretty too.
Stuff whatever you like into the little jar. Add a pretty fabric or paper under the cap and a ribbon and you're ready to go. The instructions are simple. Toss in a pot on the stove with a couple of cups of water and let it fill the room with the aroma of the holidays. Don't let it evaporate dry! I usually bring mine to a boil and turn it off and let it simmer.
If you're not a QR Code clicker...here's the link straight to the jars. https://amzn.to/40UppBr
7-Day Gratitude Walk - DAY TWO
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✨ Welcome to day two of our 7-Day Gratitude Journey! ✨
Day 2: Gratitude for the Past
PART ONE of TWO
Question/Statement: What is a memory that brings you peace or joy, and why are you grateful for it?
Tip: Create a memory jogger by jotting down cherished moments on slips of paper and revisiting them on tough days. Put them in a mason jar and tie them with a ribbon for a decorative way to keep them on hand for when you need to add to it or seek comfort.
If writing down memories doesn't come easy to you today, spend the time to find a jar, box, or envelope and label it. You can add memories to it all month long. Trust me, once you get started, you will think of some to write down, and maybe make a few new ones too.
PART TWO OF TWO
Add-Ons:
Recipes are a wonderful way to keep connections.
I'm sharing one of my favorites and you are welcome to print it off to share with your friends, but consider sharing one of yours if you have one. Print off extra copies to hand off to friends and family.
This vibrant and refreshing dish is easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and adds a tangy-sweet burst of flavor to any Thanksgiving spread. It’s a great complement to turkey and other rich dishes. Since it freezes so well, make a double-batch and tuck some away to take as a hostess gift to a holiday party.
I look forward to touching base tomorrow.
With gratitude,
Nancy
#GratitudeJourney #ThankfulHeart #CountdownToThanksgiving #Grateful #WriterGIrl
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