life in my empty nest

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Frozen Hot Chocolate - Pinterest Success #15

This Frozen Hot Chocolate would be the perfect treat for a Valentine's Day breakfast or snack tomorrow, or really anytime you are wanting to make something special for someone you love. The best part is, this is also the skinny version - low fat and low sugar. I was looking on Pinterest for a smoothie that would be fun on Valentine's Day and instead found this delicious frozen treat. I make fruit smoothies a lot, because they are healthy and easy to put together. But, let's face it, sometimes chocolate is the only way to go - especially on Valentine's Day.

The original pin and recipe can be found here. I did make a few changes to make this even healthier. I used sugar free chocolate Ovaltine and I doubled the ice to get the thicker, frozen consistency I was looking for. When you are a diabetic, chocolate does not have to be off limits. There are so many sugar free options, that still taste great.

What a great recipe success! It had a wonderful chocolate taste and felt quite indulgent - just perfect for any special occasion.

Happy Wednesday!

Linking with Katie and Stephanie for Saw It - Pinned It - Did It and I Love You More Than Carrots

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Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Proud

This past weekend was spent supporting Melissa and the Michigan State University Pompon team as they competed in the Collegiate Championship. It began Friday night with a dress rehearsal at MSU, followed by dinner to celebrate my sister's birthday. Melissa came home with us after dinner and was able to relax and recharge at home, on Saturday.

On Sunday, the day of the competition, the team met for a unity breakfast, then headed to check in at the arena. Melissa was nervous, but confident in her team and all the practice they had put in. They were ready, as returning champions, to defend their title.

After a great performance, it was up to the judges. When the results were announced, MSU placed 2nd in the competition and this is where we became proud as both parents and MSU alumni. Sometimes the greater test of character comes in how a loss is handled, rather than a win. The team showed tremendous class and made us proud to be Spartans. Melissa came away holding her head high, knowing they had given it their best, and that is the greatest accomplishment.

When your children participate in sports, over the years you see the highs and lows; both wins and losses. You give many pep talks and teach good sportsmanship. It is the hope that they will win, as well as lose with grace. These girls on Sunday, learned these lessons well, and made us extremely proud.

Have a great day!

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Monday, February 11, 2013

The Perfect Strawberry

The perfect Chocolate Dipped Strawberry is easy to make and I have the secret :-)

I first learned this secret when I was given the instructions at a Mother's Day Tea Party at my daughter's preschool, many years ago. We thought these strawberries were delicious, the chocolate was the perfect consistency and they looked beautiful. Now, I make these yummy strawberries for many occasions. My friends and family always ask me to bring these strawberries and they are the first thing gone from the buffet table.

Instructions for the Perfect Chocolate Dipped Strawberry

Use good quality chocolate. This time I used milk chocolate, but I also use dark and white chocolate. One chocolate bar will make one dozen dipped strawberries.
It is okay to melt chocolate in the microwave. Break the chocolate in pieces. Place in a small glass microwave bowl. Here is the secret - add 3 - 4 drops of cooking oil to chocolate pieces. This makes the chocolate shiny and adhere to the strawberry better. Also, when you bite the chocolate dipped strawberry, the chocolate does not break off, like some I am sure you have had.
Microwave for 30 seconds, stir and only put back in for 10 seconds at a time. When the chocolate is smooth, dip strawberries and place on a wax paper covered cookie sheet.

Place cookie sheet in refridgerator until chocolate hardens, about one hour.

Use this method, add the drops of oil and your strawberries will be beautiful and delicious.