Germerican Christmas as in Merry Christmas, Frohes Fest & Food Traditions...

This year we celebrated another Germerican Christmas;  German, our own, and some American traditions are combined and make our Germerican Christmas.  -  I am not a traditionalist,  but this time of year I turn into one.  Yes. it basically starts in with Laternenparade for St. Martin's Day,  the next thing is the advent's wreath,  on December 1st, both girls get a advent's calendar each and St. Nikolaus visits December 6th every year.  Then of course there are the movies we watch.  Elf, Grinch, Lampoon's Family Vacation, Peanut Christmas, Christmas Story, not to forget Love Actually must all be watched before Christmas, the Elf starts visiting, cookies are baked and the rest of the family insists on a tree.  It is not that I do not want a tree but putting it up in early December?  When I grew up my parents decorated the tree and it was not revealed until Christmas Eve when not only saw the tree for the very first time but also the presents.  It was magical…such anticipation; now we get a tree and decorate it together plus we each pick out a new ornament at Santaland each year…

Presents…well, yes there are presents and we hang stockings by our chimney for each person celebrating.  In Germany the Christkind visits and brings present on Christmas Eve; so yes, our girlies are quite spoiled as it just also happens to visit our house after dinner and leaves a few presents.  Santa of course visits at night and we do follow him along on the Norad tracker it's so much fun. Christmas Day is a lazy one, spent unwrapping, trying on, playing and/or reading presents plus it has to involve a long family walk up  Mt.Tabor

Food - yes, there is food; the first few years after Alena was born was quite a steep learning curve as to how to modify recipes, knowing "safe foods" etc.  In the meantime reading labels, knowing which foods are safe, how to modify is second nature and at home no big deal. So what do we eat on Christmas?  Keeping with  German tradition Christmas Eve dinner is simple and it's Fleischkäse (thank you for a great German butcher in Portland) and Potato Salad. For Christmas Day we used to make a goose, potato dumplings, red cabbage but since neither of the girls really like it we have switched it up.  This year was the second in a row that we had Rouladen with Spätzle {scroll all the way down for recipe} served with oven roasted carrots, and red cabbage.  I have to admit that this year I got a jar of Hengstenberg Apfel Rotkraut {red cabbage with apple} and just heated it up; I may just stick to that tradition.

Green Gazpacho {#vegan #dairyfree} for #SundaySupper

Happy Sunday!!!  Summer is finally here and we are just about to hit the summer heat next week.  What is summer without hot days and the days when you rather eat chilled food than hot food.  At least to me something is missing without those days.  The theme for this week's #SundaySupper is Summer Chillin' and Alayio of Prescetarian Journal is having all of us around her virtual dinner table.

I we love soup any time of year and cold soups are not refreshing but also so quick and easy to make.  So far Gurkenkaltschale {Cucumber Cold Bowl} with cucumber, dill, and "cream", Asparagus Gazpacho, or Gazpacho Andaluz have been on our table.  Now a Green Gazpacho has not yet been served…well, that is until today.

All you need to make this no-fuzz, no-cook soup is chilled ingredients and a blender.  Yes, that's it…super easy, right?

Green Gazpacho

• 1 large cucumber app. {3/4 lb.}, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 2 celery stalks, well cleaned and cut into pieces
• 1 green pepper, cleaned, seeded and cut into chunks
• 1/2 - 1 full bunch of garlic scapes cut into pieces {depending on how much you like garlic - as alternative you can use 4-6 garlic cloves}
• 1/2 C ice cubes
• 1/3 C lemon juice
• 1-2 tsp salt to taste
• fresh ground pepper to taste
• 1 tomato cut into bite sized pieces for garnish

1. Place all ingredients except salt and pepper into a blender;
2. Turn blender to "chop" setting until all vegetables are all chopped up.
3. Add salt & pepper to taste and set blender to "mix" setting.  Mix until everything is thoroughly mixed up.  Adjust spices as needed.
4. Serve right away, or keep chilled in the fridge until you are ready to eat
5. For serving top with tomato pieces.

Are you ready for more chilled dishes and drinks to beat the heat?!  Take a look what the other #SundaySupper contributors are bringing...

  Brisk Beverages

• Blackberry and Peach Sparkling {Camping} Sangria from Simply Healthy Family
• Mocha Madness Milkshake from Desserts Required
• Savory Salted Cumin Mint Lassi With Greek Yogurt from Sue's Nutrition Buzz
• Skinny Watermelon Mojito from Peanut Butter & Peppers
• Southern Sweet Tea from Gluten Free Crumbley
• Strawberry Mango White Sangria from The Texan New Yorker
• The Polar Cap Drink from Seduction in the Kitchen
• Vanilla Root Beer Cream Soda from Feed Me, Seymour

Chilled Starters

• Avocado Hummus Dip from Shockingly Delicious
• Bak Kwa (Grilled Chili Pork Jerky) from Food Lust People Love
• Cucumber-Watercress Soup - Gazpacho Style from The Wimpy Vegetarian
• Gazpacho from Jelly Toast
• Green Gazpacho from The Not So Cheesy Kitchen
• Rabarbersuppe Med Vin (Danish Rhubarb Wine Soup from Culinary Adventures with Camilla
• Mexican Flag Guacamole from What Smells So Good?
• Polish Chilled Beet Soup (Chlodnik) from Curious Cuisiniere
• Tuna Tartare from Kimchi Mom
• White Gazpacho from The Little Ferraro Kitchen

Snappy Salads and Sides

• Antipasto Tortellini Pasta Salad from Neighborfood
• Broccoli Salad from Flavor Mosaic
• Cantaloupe Risotto from Confessions of A Culinary Diva
• Cold Peanut Noodles from girlichef
• Korean Salad from Noshing With The Nolands
• Layered Salad with Green Goddess Dressing from Delaware Girl Eats
• Pesto Pasta Salad from Supper for a Steal
• Picnic Orzo Salad from A Mama, Baby & Shar-pei in the Kitchen
• Spinach Salad with Curried Apple and Cashew Dressing from Peaceful Cooking
• Tortellini Pesto Pasta Salad from Serena Bakes Simply from Scratch
• Tuna and Potato Salad from Cindy's Recipes and Writings
• Quinoa Fruit Salad with a Creamy Yogurt Dressing from Simply Gourmet
• Watermelon, Mango and Arugula Salad from Take a Bite Out of Boca

Refreshing Main Dishes

• Buffalo and Blue Cheese Chicken Salad from Cupcakes & Kale Chips
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad from Cookin' Mimi
• Jalapeno Ham Salad from Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
• Shrimp Ceviche from Kudos Kitchen by Renee
• Surimi Salad from Pescetarian Journal
• Zucchini Lasagna from Nosh My Way

Cool Confections

• Berry Ice Cream Bomb from Jane's Adventures in Dinner
• Cherry Cream Cheese Ice Cream from Magnolia Days
• Lemon Curd Parfait from Life Tastes Good
• Lemon Thyme Ice Pops from Country Girl in the Village
• Mocha Latte Ice Cream from The Foodie Army Wife
• No Maker Required Berry Ice Cream from Hot Momma's Kitchen Chaos
• No-Bake Penuche Drop Cookies from Killer Bunnies, Inc.
• No-Bake Raspberry and Japanese Yuzu Citrus Bars from NinjaBaking.com
• No Churn Lemon Ice Cream {Dairy Free} from Healthy. Delicious.
• Nutella and Pistachio Gelato from La Bella Vita Cucina
• Olive Oil Gelato from The Girl in the Little Red Kitchen
• Pluot Ice Cream from Crazy Foodie Stunts
• Raspberries and Cream Panna Cotta from A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
• Salted Caramel Gelato from Manu's Menu
• Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Pie from That Skinny Chick Can Bake
• Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Sandwiches from The Redhead Baker
• Trio of Fruity Ice Cream Toppings from Foxes Love Lemons
• Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding from Pies and Plots
• White Chocolate Fruit Dip from Hezzi D's Book and Cooks

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET.  Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.


Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

It is May...

yes, it is true and next thing we know school is out for the summer.  I say it all the time but where does the time go?  It obviously passes by so quickly as I can find more grey hairs on my head, and both girls keep on growing.  To me it is a little like a double edged sword - I love seeing them grow, getting more mature and independent but somewhat on the other side I want them to stay innocent children for as long as possible.  Don't get me wrong…I think {or at least hope}it must be a dilemma many parents face.

All of us have been super busy these last few weeks.  Mia Rose participated in the Talent Show at school dancing with two of her friends to Roar…oh yes,  this Mama is quite proud

Alena on the other hand has been enjoying Girls Inc. and was so inspired that she set up shop in front of our house to sell her handmade Rainbow loom bracelets.  She sold quite a few and no, not just to our friends :)  I watched everything from the inside, as I - bad me - caught myself starting to micro manage her little store…

The parental units have been busy with work; and now I almost forgot - yesterday was the day that both ladies finally got ear rings.  They had talked about it for so long, asked and they just caught Ron at the right time when he promised them "yes, Wednesday after work we will get your ears pierced".  Lucky girls - their Mama was not quite ready yet :)  Anyway we made our way down to the piercing studio, met Ron and now both of our girls have earrings.  Yes, they are super proud…and Daddy scored a lot of points from his girlies…

Things & Red Pepper Corn Chowder #Vegan #Dairyfree

How is everyone?  All is fine here - I just have been in a - for lack of better words - little "lull"; you know just part of life, right?!

Time here seems to just fly by - please tell me that everyone is feeling like this.  How can it already be April? I love spring but at times it all just runs a little too quickly for me; it probably has always been as fast but I never paid as much attention to it.  My hair keeps getting more grey strands and the girlies are growing by - as you say - leaps and bounds.  No longer are they little girlies, but big girls…Wow!!! It is all good and I am certainly not complaining to see our girlies grow into little ladies.  Now please do not tell them that I referred to them as little…especially Mia Rose would be super upset :)

We have had another visit to our metabolic clinic, another blood draw, and Alena - now that she has turned ten - has had her first bone density scan.  Our visit was - as usual - great; the fantastic news is that new guidelines will be coming out allowing a lot more cheeses and casein will be okay. I cannot wait to see them..both of the girls GALT levels were good {YAY} however the Vitamin D was off the chart as in off the chart low :(.  That certainly was not the result we wanted to see but we are boosting Vitamin D with daily drops and another draw next month will {fingers crossed} show increased levels.  

The result of the bone density level was not as expected and it really did throw me for a loop questioning myself…I was so surprised because both girls eat quite a bit of cheese, Alena drinks at least two large glasses of fortified Chocolate Almond Milk everyday, takes a supplement and still the bone density was not were it should be.  The metabolic clinic however told us that they were not surprised since the Vitamin D level is so low.  The good news is that there another ten years to build up Alena's bones.  So boosting Vitamin D, more {soon} cheeses, and running {Ron started to take both girls with him} should bring us there.  Fingers crossed…

Now are you ready to hear about some delicious Red Pepper Corn Chowder?  Courtesy of delicious frozen corn, you are able to bring summer to your table anytime of year now.  I made it on a particular grey, cool, and rainy - albeit spring - day; it certainly brightened everyone's mood plus it is super easy, quick, and satisfying.

Red Pepper Corn Chowder

• 2 Tbs Olive Oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 large carrot, cleaned and diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 1 - 2 large red pepper(s), seeds removed and diced
• 4 C diced potatoes  
• 1 bag frozen corn
• 5 C water {or more}
• 1 vegan bullion broth
• 1/2 untreated lemon; zest & juice
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Green onion diced for garnish

1. Heat olive oil in a large stock pot.  Add onions, carrot, and celery together with a pinch of salt.
2. Sautee until onions begins to turn translucent.
3. Add pepper and sauté for another minute or so.
4. Add potatoes together with the corn and stir it all up for another minute
5. Add water, as well as the bullion cube.  Bring to a slow simmer, and cover.
6. Simmer for about 20 - 25 minutes until potatoes are soft
7. Using a hand blender, puree the soup to desired consistency.  When blending be very careful not to burn yourself as the liquid will splatter.
8. Add lemon zest, together with lemon juice and pepper. Adjust salt to taste.

Garnish with diced green onion; serve with a large side salad and some crusty bread!

Potato Chickpea Stew for #SundaySupper {#meatless #vegan}

Welcome to another #SundaySupper I am participating in. This week's theme is Meatless #SundaySupper; yes all recipes today are vegetarian some are vegan.  Isn't it a great theme?  Today's event is hosted by Tammi over at Mommasmeals.  Thank you so much for having us at your dinner table today.

Do you know that I was a vegetarian when I first met Ron?  I actually was a vegetarian for many years until - when we visiting Germany - my friend made a roasted pepper-meat Strudel and I just could not resist.  Yes, that was the end after years…today we eat a varied diet and I try to mix it up.  I do not set a goal as to one meatless meal a week it is just how it works out.  There are some weeks where every single meal is - inadvertently - vegetarian and other weeks where most meals include some sort of meat.   A varied diet is also important for our children,  it exposes them to different textures, tastes, flavors and expands their horizon.

The dish I bring to today's #SundaySupper table is Potato Chickpea Stew;  chickpeas aka garbanzo beans or Kichererbsen {giggle peas} as they are known in German and they are Alena's absolute favorite :).  It is the perfect dinner any time of year plus because it is made with canned chickpeas it is made in a snap. This dish is full of lemon, ginger, garlic, and can pack as much or little spice as you like.  As you may remember my family does not like spice, so I made mine very mild but added some extra spice to my own bowl.

Potato Chickpea Stew

• 4 Tbs canola oil
• 1  onion diced
• 1" fresh ginger, peeled, and minced
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1 untreated lemon; juiced, and zest grated
• 3 tsp cumin
• 3/4 tsp paprika
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (or more)
• 1-3/4 lb. yellow potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2-1/2 C canned Chickpeas drained and rinsed (large can, or two regular sized cans)
• 5 C water
• Salt & Pepper to taste
• 1/4 C fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish {optional}

1. Heat oil in a large pot and when hot
2. Add onion and sauté until they begin to soften then
3. Add ginger, garlic, lemon zest, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a good pinch of salt.  Saute until fragrant.
4. Add potatoes and combine with spice onion mixture.  On medium heat sauté potatoes for no more than five minutes until all have been mixed with the spices.
5. Add chickpeas and give it all a good stir; then
6. Add lemon juice, and water. Stir it up and bring to a slow simmer.  Cover and cook for about 25 minutes until potatoes are soft.
7. Adjust salt & pepper to taste
8. Ladle into bowls and top with cilantro.

Enjoy!

Now get ready to take a look at all of these amazing recipes the #SundaySupper contributors are brining today...

Salads, Soups, Stews and Starters

• Spicy Vegan Potato Salad by Killer Bunnies, Inc
• Veggie Salad Trio with Zucchini Noodles and Pesto by Hip Foodie Mom
• Olive Tapenade by MealDiva
• Chickpea Chile Soup with Greens and Grains by Shockingly Delicious
• Thai Coconut Curry Butternut Squash Soup by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
• Potato Chickpea Stew by The Not So Cheesy Kitchen
• "Beef" Stew with Potato Cake Tops by Jane's Adventures in Dinner
• Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup by Cindy's Recipes and Writings

"Meat"balls

• Teriyaki Quinoa "Meatballs" by The Foodie Patootie
• Black Bean "Meatballs" with Marinara by Foxes Love Lemons
• Spicy Vegetarian Meatballs by Mess Makes Food

Pastas, Pizzas and Casseroles

• Zucchini and Mushroom Skillet Lasagna by Curious Cuisiniere
• Four Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Shells by Melanie Makes
• Spicy Penne with Tomatoes and Havarti by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
• Cheesy Tomato Casserole by Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
• Deconstructed Vegan “Lasagna” by What Smells So Good?
• Ramen Stir Fry by Ninja Baking
• Roasted Red Pepper Lasagna by Cravings of a Lunatic
• Broccolini Macaroni and Cheese by Family Foodie
• Sundried Tomato and Zucchini Pizza with Goat Cheese by Healthy. Delicious.
• Creamy Parmesan Mushroom and Leek Pasta by Neighborfood
• Roasted Veggie Manicotti by Hot Momma's Kitchen Chaos
• Pasta Patate by Webicurean
• Spaghetti and Chickpeas and Roasted Tomato Sauce by The Wimpy Vegetarian
• Broccoli, Mushroom, and Rice Casserole by Momma's Meals
• Radicchio and Gorgonzola Tortelloni with Butter and Walnuts by Manu's Menu

Burgers

• Quinoa Black Bean Burger with Ginger Cilantro & Turmeric by Sue's Nutrition Buzz
• Garbanzo and Brown Rice Burgers by girlichef
• Tofu Burgers by Small Wallet, Big Appetite

Tacos & Everything Wrapped

• Blackened Tofu Tacos with Asian Slaw by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
• Mushroom & Poblano Tacos by La Cocina de Leslie
• Green Chile Enchiladas by Cookin' Mimi
• Beet and Goat Cheese Tacos with Avocado Cream by The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
• Black Bean and Avocado Flautas by Supper for a Steal
• Black Bean Spinach Quinoa Burritos by Alida's Kitchen

Other Main and Side Dishes

• Vegan, Gluten Free Breakfast Bars by Pies and Plots
• Mushroom and Lentil Cottage Pie by A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
• Mediterranean Tomato Tart by Magnolia Days
• Lentil Stuffed Peppers by Peanut Butter and Peppers
• Fontina Polenta with Sauteed Porcini Mushrooms by La Bella Vita Cucina
• Leek and Zucchini Tarte Tatin by Food Lust People Love
• Tofu and Peas Curry (Tofu Matar) by Soni's Food

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. Check out our #SundaySupper Pinterest board for more fabulous recipes and food photos. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Please meet Kai - #Galactosemia around the world #Germany {#Newbornscreening}

Welcome to the Galactosemia around the world kick-off post for 2014.  This is the third of - fingers crossed - many more to follow in 2014;  it is my goal for you to meet people from around the world who are living with Classic Galactosemia.  Once this disorder is diagnosed treatment must be immediately begin.  Treatment for  Classic Galactosemia is the elimination of Galactose {a long milk sugar} from the diet.  The baby must be immediately put on Soy formula, as galactose is also present in breast milk and can be deadly.  As the babies grow the elimination of Galactose from animal sources must continue. The tricky part about the diet is the many regional differences in recommendation etc. Not only treatment varies greatly, but also detection through newborn screening. Please contact me if you are interested in being featured {germanpdx (at) gmail . com}

In November Lisa from Italy was featured, in December you met Skadi from Berlin, and today please meet Kai.  Kai is three years old and lives with his Mama Stephanie, his Papa Dirk and sister Kira in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.

After a pregnancy with a couple of hick-ups Kai joined his big sister Kira ; the very next day Kai came down with a fever.  He was moved to the children's floor of the hospital.  Stephanie nursed Kai without any problems; he however drank very little and therefore a feeding tube was inserted.  By the third day of his life Kai had lost a lot of weight, and was jaundiced {yellow}.  The medical team became concerned decided to immediately perform the his newborn screen test and rushed.  Luckily the result  - positive for Classic Galactosemia - came back the very next day.  Kai was four days old.  His liver enzymes were very dangerously high elevated and Kai was immediately transferred to another hospital with a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit {"PICU"}.  Stephanie had to immediately stop nursing Kai and he was put on Soy formula.  Kai recovered fairly quickly and his family was able to take their new baby home when he was three weeks old.

Today, Kai is a happy and healthy three year old. The family is cared for by the metabolic team in Düsseldorf and he is allowed to eat cheeses that have a   carbohydrate level below 0.1 g.  Kai is allowed foods containing clarified butter {butter oil/Butterreinfett}, milk protein, in addition to all fruits, vegetables, beans, and legumes.

Even so Kai is only three years old he already knows safe foods from unsafe foods. The family does not only keep "safe" foods in their fridge but Kai knows exactly which pudding to grab :) .  When out he always declines food from others and waits until his parents give the "green light".  Kai does understand that he cannot eat certain things containing milk as they would make him sick!

Happy 2014 - Fun at Mt. Tabor & Tryon Creek

Happy 2014!!!  Did you all have a great start into the New Year?

We have started the New Year with a couple of family walks at our favorite spots in Portland;  Mt Tabor Park and Tryon Creek. Well, I should note that three out of four people in our house love to go on walks out in nature.  Do you know who really is not that excited about going out into nature?  Can you guess who?  - Okay it is our youngest MiaRose is just not so excited about at first but in the end she likes it as well.

So here are just a few pictures from the first, and second day of 2014

MiaRose walking up Mt. Tabor

Alena at Tryon Creek

The year 2013 - Review, Thanks, Thoughts

Here it is the recap of 2013; a post that I have written many times over in my head but for some reason my thoughts did not transfer into a post.  Now why not?!  Okay - not funny I get it and really is anyone really interested in my 2013 recap?! Well, for one I just need it get it out of my head because otherwise it will languish there forever...just like many other posts that were never written this year;  posts that were perfectly scripted in my head and I just never typed out.  The good news is, well they are still in there and a New Year is coming.  Right?!  Who says that I cannot write those posts in 2014?  That is right, because this is my little blog...remember just like "It's my party and I cry if I want to" just rephrase it to "It's my blog and I write if I want to".  Oh, to those of you that do not know me in person I have this...well, let me call it for lack of other term gift, okay in a way it is a gift.  Now what?!  A gift - what on earth - alright I will not keep you in suspense any longer and will share with you what it is.  Well - this sounds odd - songs will pop into my head out of no where.  Really, there are certain phrases and then it happens like just now.  Aren't you glad you know this little tidbit about me now?!  I know, it is just what you always wanted to know...

Now I have gotten completely off track - 2013 the year in review;  let me focus on what I promised.  This year has been a really, really good year.  Our children as well as the rest of the family is healthy.  I am now the mother of a 10 year old and a 7 year old; Alena graduated from 3rd to 4th grade and Mia Rose graduated from 1st to 2nd grade.  That is hard to believe - were they not just in preschool?   I continue to be an avid advocate for Newborn Screening, and Alena and Mia Rosie's newborn screening story was featured in the Oregonian, and by APHL to celebrate the 50 year Anniversary of Newborn Screening.  Alena's story was featured in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and included in an outstanding investigative report shedding light on the terrible practice of batching Newborn Screening tests at the hospital before sending them on to the State Lab. See, some hospitals wait for a couple of days before sending the tests to the labs, some labs are closed on the weekends, and sadly the result comes back too late for some of the babies.  Galactosemia is just one of those conditions that need an immediate response and this article made me realize again just how lucky we are.   Newborn Screening saves lives, and it is so important that all expecting parents learn as much as they can about the test before their baby is delivered. My last tidbit on newborn screening advocacy is that I have been appointed to serve a two year term on the Oregon State Newborn Screening Advisory Committee.

My little blog has continued to grow and 2013 was the year I changed the name from "Galactosemia in Portland" to "The Not So Cheesy Kitchen".  Truth be said, a) how many people know what Galactosemia is, and b) I have been concentrating a lot on the treatment i.e. the foods we eat :) a.k.a. Food Blog.  Now some thanks are in order to Ron, as well as our dear friends Larissa and Martin who helped come up with "The Not So Cheesy Kitchen" name of the blog.  Talking about my blog thank you Heather {a.k.a. Girlichef} for all the help and friendship. Oh, and yes I should mention that the girls are so used of me taking pictures of their dishes, them eating, them helping in the kitchen... I overheard Alena explain to her friend "my Mom takes pictures of all the foods we eat"...So thank you, girlies!

2013 also marked that year that I finally got back into running.  Yes, that is right after a almost 15 year break and with many failed attempts to get back into running I have finally made it.  I started back in May of this year and have not fallen off the "track".  Thank you to my dear friend Denise for coming up with a plan, is encouraging me and of course to Ron who makes sure that I make it out the door :).  Yes, I am slow but it clears my mind, lifts my mood...

This year was also the year we took a family vacation in Alto Adige {Northern Italy} after spending time in my hometown of Tuttlingen, Germany.  Danke, Mama :)  Talking about visits and vacations, we tried out snow shoeing {the girls were not fans}, discovered cross country skiing and took a couple of trips out to Sunriver, Oregon.  Then of course there was the surprise visit by my sister Kati...and yes,  it is hard living this far away from family.

Are any of you still here? Or did I loose you all by this long post?  Well, let me say this there are so many more people I should thank.  So I say Thank you to all of you...to every single one of you reading this.  I appreciate all of you.

Wishing all of you a Happy, Healthy, and Successful 2014.  May all your wishes for the New Year come true.  Cheers!!!

New Year's Brezel {#Dairyfree} for #SundaySupper

How can it be that 2013 is already coming to an end? Just a few days ago I was fretting that we were not prepared for Christmas. But you know what? It all turned out great. Santa brought presents,  dinner turned out well, we are all healthy so I must tell myself that there is no reason to fret :) This shall be my New Year's resolution...no fretting :)

With 2013 coming to an end I am sure you can guess the theme for this week's #SundaySupper.  It is Reflections and Resolution hosted by Constance a.k.a. The Foodie Army Wife.

Is New Year's Eve a big event for you?  Do you celebrate with a big party, or do you usually turn in before the New Year arrives?  I remember New Year's Eve being a big deal both as a child and as a young adult in Germany.  When I was a child we always drove to Karlsruhe to Omi's house.  My uncles, aunts and cousins were all there to ring in the New Year and to celebrate  Omi's birthday on January 1st.  It was a  tradition just like the food; the main dish always was baked carp, the appetizer - for the adults only - was fish soup, bubbly at midnight, and a New Year's Brezel for breakfast. The adults feasted while the kids played and got to stay up super late. At breakfast we all joined and shared the big New Year's Brezel.  Now this is not an ordinary brezel as they range in size from just slightly under a foot larger; it is made from a sweet yeast dough often covered with large sugar crystals {Hagelzucker}.  The New Year's Brezel symbolizes good luck and health for the New Year to all who share in eating it around the table.  I love this tradition together with the fond memories of  New Year's Eve parties and Omi's birthday's so many years ago.  The New Year's Brezel  is something we continue; it be no surprise that a New Year's Brezel is my #SundaySupper dish today.  I bring it to you along with wishes for a Happy and Healthy 2014 to you, and your entire family.

New Year's Brezel

• 4 C flour
• 2 Tbs sugar
• zest of an untreated lemon
• 1-1/4 tsp yeast
• 1/4 tsp cardamom
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 2/3 C dried unsweetened cranberries
• 1-1/4 C Almond milk
• 9 Tbs Earth Balance or other Vegan "butter"
• 1 egg yolk
• 2-3 Tbs water

1. Mix flour, sugar, lemon zest, spices, cranberries and yeast in a large mixing bowl
2. Warm "milk" on the stove - do not bring to a boil - and gently melt "butter" in the "milk"
3. Pour the heated liquid {combined "milk" & "butter"} over the dry ingredients.
4. Mix the ingredients using a dough hook until a soft dough forms.
5. Set dough covered into a warm spot and let it rise for at least 30 minutes
6. Preheat oven to 425F
7. When dough has risen, roll it into a large roll; it should be thicker in the middle and thinning at both ends.  Lay the roll flat onto a surface and shape it into a brezel, by bringing the ends towards the middle {thick} section of the dough. Twist the two ends, and place them each onto the middle section.
8. Combine the egg yolk with water; brush the egg water mixture onto the brezel.
9. Transfer the brezel to a baking sheet, and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until it is golden!

Happy New Year from our family to yours 

Now check out what the other contributors are bringing to our #SundaySupper table today.

Join us this weekend for Reflections and Resolutions! Breakfast

• Snowman Eggnog Pancakes from Shockingly Delicious
• Baked Oatmeal from In The Kitchen With Audrey and Maurene
• Chia Seed Breakfast Pudding from girlichef
• New Year's Brezel from The Not So Cheesy Kitchen

Appetizers & Snacks

• Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Popcorn from Cupcakes & Kale Chips
• Moroccan Cigars from Jane’s Adventures in Dinner
• Baked Camembert with Caramel and Pecans from That Skinny Chick Can Bake
• Pancetta & Goat Cheese Crostinis from Country Girl in the Village
• Sweet and Savory Mixed Nuts from Peanut Butter and Peppers
• Glazed Snickerdoodle Bars with Walnuts from Pies and Plots
• Champagne Shrimp and Pasta from Cindy's Recipes and Writings

Main Dishes & Sides

• Minestrone Any Way from Hot Momma’s Kitchen Chaos
• Pecan-Crusted Rainbow Trout from Small Wallet, Big Appetite
• Mushroom Risotto from Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
• Zapiekanka (Polish 'pizza') from Curious Cuisiniere
• Hoppin' John for Good Luck from The Wimpy Vegetarian
• Italian Vegetable Soup from The Foodie Army Wife
• Chicken stuffed with Mozzarella and Prosciutto from Family Foodie
• Black-Eye Pea and Greens Casserole and Wine Pairings from ENOFYLZ Wine Blog

Desserts & Drinks

• Candied Bacon Bourbon Bloody Mary from The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
• Peanut & Pretzel Bark from Killer Bunnies, Inc.
• Cherry Almond Blondies from Mess Makes Food
• Apricot Fizz from Magnolia Days
• Celebration Mimosas from Kudos Kitchen By Renee
• Dark Chocolate Cake Doughnuts from What Smells So Good?
• Gluten Free Cronuts from No One Likes Crumbley Cookies
• Spiced Cranberry Apple Crisp from Neighborfood
• Blood Orange Mimosas from Take A Bite Out of Boca

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. Check out our#SundaySupper Pinterest board for more fabulous recipes and food photos. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy! You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Christmas Muffins for Santa {#dairyfree}

The 2013 Christmas season will go down as the year of hardly any cookies.  Yes, it is true and I must confess.  There were four different batches of cookies this year and they are all gone.  Yup - and this year marks the year without Zimtsterne, Vanillekipferln or other of my usual standards.  For no particular reason but it just did not happen...however we do have a Christmas tree, we visited Santa, saw the beautiful tree downtown Portland

but still there is was a lack of Christmas spices filling the air. Now do not be sad for us, because we had the most delicious Christmas Muffins and Santa may just find those waiting for him by the chimney :)

Christmas Muffins
***Preheat oven to 325 and line 12 muffin cups

• 2 C flour
• 2/3 C sugar
• 2 Tb light brown sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cardamom
• 1/2 C whole Almond -> chopped in kitchen processor/chopper
• 1/2 C pecan pieces
• 1/3 C dried unsweetened cranberries
• 1 C Almond Milk {or your favorite "milk" beverage}
• 1 egg
• 1/4 C Canola Oil
• 1/4 semi-sweet chocolate chips {optional}

Note:  You will need to use two bowls.

1. In a large bowl combine the first seven ingredients (through cardamom} and mix it up thoroughly. Then add the chopped nuts as well as cranberries.
2. In another bowl mix the "milk" with the egg and oil.  Carefully mix it up.
3. Pour the liquid into the flour mix.  Stir it up quickly; be careful to not mix too much.
4. Next fold in the grated butternut squash until it is just incorporated into the dough.  
5. Using a spoon, fill the dough into the muffin tins until they are about 3/4 filled. If using, top the muffins with chocolate chips.
6. Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Butternut Squash & Onion Orecchiette {#12WksWinterSquash #Vegan}

Happy Monday and welcome to week 8 of 12 Weeks of Winter Squash the great even hosted by Heather and Joanne.  Can you believe that this is already the eighth week of this fun event?! Yes, there are only four weeks left...so let me ask you this,  are you ready?  That is if you celebrate...are you ready for the big event?  As for me us, the Santa presents are on their way {fingers crossed - I do not want to jinx it}, meat is ordered but we still need to run out to the store today as well as on Christmas Eve.  It will be all good...

With all the stress and business around my Winter Squash recipe is super easy, and will basically cook by itself in the oven while you work on wrapping presents, prepare other foods, or just sit by the fire with a nice glass of something.  Plus it is delicious.

Butternut Squash & Onion Orecchiette

• 4 C Butternut Squash {small to medium sized squash}
• 1 Splash Olive Oil {about a tablespoon}
• 1 Tbs rubbed Sage
• 4 Sage leaves
• 1 onion sliced
• salt & pepper
• 1 package of orecchiette or other pasta cooked according to directions
• 4 TB white balsamic vinegar
• Some fresh parsley for garnish

**** Preheat oven to 375F****

1. Heat Olive Oil in large ovenproof skillet {I use a cast iron pan}.  When hot,
2. Add Sage, Butternut Squash, onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté for a couple of minutes, be sure to give it a good stir. Then, 
3. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes.
4. Prepare pasta according to directions while squash is baking.
5. When onions are fragrant and squash has softened add about 4 Tablespoons of white balsamic vinegar. Return to the oven for about five minutes are so while the acid cooks off, then
6. Remove skillet from the oven,  add salt and pepper to taste.  Add drained pasta in batches to the skillet and mix it throughly with the vegetables. 
7. Garnish with parsley before serving

Do you have a Winter Squash recipe to share?  Yes? Then please feel free to add it to the linky below.

---

1. Acorn Squash and Chorizo Seco Tacos

2. Roasted Butternut Squash & Onion Orecchiette

3. Black Bean Guac Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

style="padding-bottom:0px;" src="http://linkyimg.arvixededicated.com//thumbnails2013/20131223/6f7c7ca3-f077-490f-ba2b-954ba9d457f5_thumb_BR_29.jpg" border="0" height="80" width="80" />

4. Sesame-Soy Butternut Bites

5. Butternut Butter

6. Roasted Vegetable Salad with Sriracha Vinaigrette

7. Spaghetti squash patties w/ cilantro-lemon yogurt

This linky list is now closed.

Linky Tools  |  target="_blank">Linky Blog 2013

Individual Meatloaves & Horseradish Mashed Potatoes for Mommies Little Piggies #SundaySupper

Happy Sunday and welcome to the Holiday Music and Movie Inspired #SundaySupper event.   This is fun event is hosted by Tammi of Momma's Meals.  Thank you for having us around your table this week.

Do you have a must watch movie for the holidays?  One that you just have to watch every single year? I just recently - okay by recently it is something like three years ago - have gotten into the habit of having to watch some movies and it is just not Christmas without them.  Yes, it is true I have succumbed and I love it...The movies on my must watch list include Christmas Vacation {ahhhhmmm this year I may be guilty of having watched it already twice...}, Love Actually, Elf, The Grinch who stole Christmas, and Christmas Story.  Yes, this is the absolute must list and I certainly do not mind any additions because this is the time to be merry...Oh, and you may not be surprised to hear that the girls are absolutely delighted that there are movies that must be watched ;)

Now on to #SundaySupper and my dish; it was quite hard to find something to fit the bill. I could not think of anything...but after dinner one Friday night we all brainstormed; my dear friend Larissa thought that it had to be meatloaf with mashed potatoes and Ron agreed.  So see - this is how it happened.  Now this is not the ordinary meatloaf you usually find here but this is not one but six individual loaves; packed with a mix of beef, pork, and lot's of vegetables.  The mashed potatoes are also a little more special as they are Horseradish Mashed Potatoes with just a little extra zing....Take a look at one of my little piggies eating her plate...

Individual Meatloaves

• Splash of Olive Oil
• 1 small onion diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1 medium green pepper, diced small
• 1 medium carrot, diced small
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp salt
• 2-3 Tb fresh rosemary coarsely minced
• 1-3/4 lb. ground beef
•    3/4 lb. ground pork
• 1 egg
• 1 - 1-1/2 C Matzo Meal {or other breadcrumbs that are dairy free}
• 1 C or more ketchup

*** Preheat oven to 375 F ***

1. Heat Olive Oil in a skillet and when hot 
2. Add onions, celery, green pepper, and carrot; sauté until vegetables are soft 
3. Add paprika as well as salt and sauté for another couple of minutes.  When vegetables are soft, take the skillet off the heat.
4. In a large bowl combine meats with egg and rosemary. Mix well.
5. Add cooled off vegetables; mix dough well then
6. Add Matzo Meal - you may need a little more, or less.
7. Form dough into six individual loaves and place them into one or two baking dishes.
8. Top each loaf with a generous amount of ketchup and place in the oven
9. Bake for 40 - 45 minutes 

While the meat loaves are baking in the oven prepare the

Horseradish Mashed Potatoes

•   2-3/4 lb yellow potatoes, scrubbed, and spots cut out
•   Generous pinch of salt
•   1 Tb. fresh rosemary coarsely minced
•   2 tsp. fresh horseradish grated
•   1-1/2 - 2 Tb {or more} prepared white horseradish {read label carefully some contain milk}
•   1 Tbs Earth Balance or other Vegan "Butter"
•   2 C "Milk" {I use Almond Milk} 
•   1/4 C fresh Italian Parsley chopped 

1. Place potatoes in a pot, add water until they are coved plus the salt and bring {covered} to a boil.  
2. Remove lid an cook for about 20 - 30 minutes until potatoes are soft
3. Drain the water from the potatoes.
4. Place potatoes into a kitchen machine and using the flat beater mix until potatoes are broken up for about a minute or so.
5. Add rosemary, horseradish, Earth Balance, and "milk".  Mix in the kitchen machine until the potatoes are smooth.
6. When potatoes have the desired consistency add parsley and - if needed - additional salt.

Serve individual meatloaves with the horseradish mashed potatoes, and a side salad.

And now it is time to see what everyone else is bringing for this fun event.

Party Appetizers & Snacks:

  Oven-Roasted Applesauce Scented with Rosemary & Vanilla-Inspired by the song "Christmas in the Trenches"- Shockingly Delicious
Roasted Chestnuts Inspired by the movie "The Christmas Song" - Food Lust People Love
A Popcorn Trio Inspired by the song "Let it Snow" - Hot Momma's Kitchen Chaos 
Chai Tea Abominable Snow Buddies Inspired by the movie "Rudolph" - Cupcakes & Kale Chips 
Raisin Bran Muffins for a Crowd Inspired by the movie "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" - In The Kitchen With Audrey and Maurene 
Icicle Candy and Reindeer Snacks Inspired by the movie "Snow" - Treats & Trinkets 
A Christmas Carol Plum Pudding Inspired by the movie "A Christmas Carol" - No One Likes Crumbley Cookies 
Yukon Mashed Potato Cakes Inspired by the movie "Rudolph" - Cookin' Mimi 
Christmas Pudding Inspired by the song "Over the River and Through the Woods" - A Kitchen Hoor    Pumpkin Pudding Inspired by the movie "Nightmare Before Christmas" - Basic N Delicious 
Elf-Inspired Christmas "Grams" Inspired by the movie "Elf" - MarocMama 
Sugarplums Inspired by the movie "The Nutcracker" - Happy Baking Days
Chai Spiced Roasted Nuts Inspired by the song "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire" - Take A Bite Out of Boca

Festive Main Dishes

Maple Syrup Spaghetti- Inspired by the movie "Elf"- Momma's Meals 

Who Hash Inspired by the movie "How The Grinch Stole Christmas" -girlichef 

Ginger Orange Glazed Cornish Hens Inspired by the song "The 12 Days of Christmas" -Sue's Nutrition Buzz 

NY Hot Dog with Sabrett-style Onion Sauce Inspired by the movie "Die Hard" - Small Wallet, Big Appetite 

Classic Caesar Salad Inspired by the movie "The Santa Clause" - The Little Ferraro Kitchen
Individuals Meatloaves & Horseradish Mashed Potatoes for Mommy's Little Piggies - Inspired by the movie "A Christmas Story" - The Not So Cheesy Kitchen 

Christmas Waffles Inspired by the TV special "A Claymation Christmas Celebration" - Curious Cuisiniere

Filthy Animal Pizza Inspired by the movie "Home Alone" - Foxes Love Lemons 

Chicken Orzo Soup Inspired by the song "12 Days of Christmas" - Family Foodie 

Brandied Candied Sweet Potatoes Inspired by the song "Christmas Is The Time To Say ‘I Love You’ " - Cindy's Recipes and Writings

Sweet Holiday Treats:

Gin and Tonic Cupcakes Inspired by Adam Sandler's " The Chanukah Song" - The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen

Chocolate Chip Shortbread Bars Inspired by the movie "Love Actually" - Magnolia Days   Gingerbread Marshmallows Inspired by the song "Marshmallow World" - Jane's Adventures in Dinner 

Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies Inspired by the movie "The Gremlins" - Killer Bunnies, Inc    White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Inspired by the song "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas" - Alida's Kitchen 

Snowball Cookies - Inspired by the movie "White Christmas" -The Foodie Army Wife 

Penuche Fudge Inspired by the movie "Elf" - Pies and Plots 

Hot Chocolate Cookies Inspired by the movie "Santa Clause" - Mess Makes Food 

South Pacific Coconut Tres Leche Cake Inspired by the movie "South Pacific" -The Ninja Baker    Cookies & Cream Fudge Inspired by the movie "Elf" - The Messy Baker

Cozy Drinks:

Toasted Coconut Hot Cocoa- Inspired by the song "Let It Snow"- Chocolate Moosey 

The Christmas Gram Inspired by the movie "Elf" - An Appealing Plan 

Eggnog Hot Chocolate Inspired by the movie "National Lampoons Christmas Vacation" - Peanut Butter and Peppers 

Vermont Hot Cocoa Inspired by the movie "White Christmas" - Kudos Kitchen By Renee 

Spiked Hot Chocolate Peppermint Ice Cream Floats Inspired by the song "Holly Jolly Christmas " -NeighborFood

This is Christmas; Wine Pairings for Holiday Themed#SundaySupper Recipes - ENOFYLZ Wine Blog

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. Check out our #SundaySupper Pinterest board for more fabulous recipes and food photos. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy! You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.