Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Leftover Thanksgiving Meal Ideas

I love leftover Thanksgiving turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, and various vegetable casseroles, but after a couple of days, I’m ready for some new flavors. Try adding some zing to your leftovers for a whole new flavor sensation.

Leftover turkey ideas:
• Make turkey tacos by swapping out ground beef for shredded turkey.
• Toss some leftover turkey, a can of diced tomatoes, and a couple cans of mixed vegetables into a pot and simmer for delicious and healthy soup.
• Mix shredded leftover turkey with your favorite Italian sauce and serve over pasta.
• Dice leftover turkey and add diced celery, onions, and bell pepper with a dollop of mayonnaise for a healthy turkey salad. Mix well and serve over a bed of lettuce. Top your salad with halved cherry tomatoes.

Leftover sweet potato and vegetable ideas:
• Mix 1 cup of mashed sweet potatoes with 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir in a little bit of cinnamon and add sugar to taste. Fill tart size puff pastries and bake in a 350 degree oven until the pastries are golden brown.
• Mix mashed sweet potatoes with cinnamon sugar and roll into small flour tortillas. Fry in canola oil until they turn golden brown. Drain and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
• Spray a large baking pan with cooking spray. Mix all your vegetables and vegetable casseroles in a large mixing bowl. Add a can of diced tomatoes and stir well. Pour into the baking pan. Top with bread crumbs and bake in a 350 degree oven for approximately 30 minutes.


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Monday, November 29, 2010

CONTEST - Tomorrow's the last day!


Tomorrow is the last day to enter this contest!



I am so proud to be an author for one of the most respected publishers in the CBA. In addition to the awesome fiction line that I’m part of, Abingdon Press has just released The Common English Bible New Testament. The cool thing is that it’s not a revision or an update of an existing translation; it’s a bold new translation designed specifically for Christians who desire to dig deeper into the New Testament. It’s written at a comfortable level for more than half of all English readers. I think anything that brings a heart for Jesus closer to Him through understanding of His word … Well, that’s something I can really get behind.

If you would like to have a hard copy of this amazing book, I’ve cooked up a little giveaway with Kay Strom.

Here are the simple rules for the contest:

Post a comment on one (or both!) of our blog posts about the contest that tells us your favorite scripture verse and why (in just a few sentences). At the end of November, we’ll each choose one winner at random. That winner will win an autographed copy of our latest novel AND a copy of Abingdon’s Common English Bible New Testament.

*Don’t forget to include your email address so I can contact you!*

BONUS BONUS BONUS: If that winner has posted a review of one of our novels on Christian Book Distributors, they will receive A SECOND COPY of this innovative Bible to give away to a friend. Perhaps as a Christmas gift?

It’s that simple for you to own your very own copy of Abingdon’s CEB New Testament. So let’s hear it! What’s your life verse of scripture, and why?


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Saturday, November 27, 2010

CONTEST - Reminder!

I'll be repeating this post throughout the month as a reminder to enter this fabulous contest!



I am so proud to be an author for one of the most respected publishers in the CBA. In addition to the awesome fiction line that I’m part of, Abingdon Press has just released The Common English Bible New Testament. The cool thing is that it’s not a revision or an update of an existing translation; it’s a bold new translation designed specifically for Christians who desire to dig deeper into the New Testament. It’s written at a comfortable level for more than half of all English readers. I think anything that brings a heart for Jesus closer to Him through understanding of His word … Well, that’s something I can really get behind.

If you would like to have a hard copy of this amazing book, I’ve cooked up a little giveaway with Kay Strom.

Here are the simple rules for the contest:

Post a comment on one (or both!) of our blog posts about the contest that tells us your favorite scripture verse and why (in just a few sentences). At the end of November, we’ll each choose one winner at random. That winner will win an autographed copy of our latest novel AND a copy of Abingdon’s Common English Bible New Testament.

*Don’t forget to include your email address so I can contact you!*

BONUS BONUS BONUS: If that winner has posted a review of one of our novels on Christian Book Distributors, they will receive A SECOND COPY of this innovative Bible to give away to a friend. Perhaps as a Christmas gift?

It’s that simple for you to own your very own copy of Abingdon’s CEB New Testament. So let’s hear it! What’s your life verse of scripture, and why?


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Friday, November 26, 2010

Moist Leftover Turkey

If you’re like most people, you have enough turkey left over to have several more meals of turkey soup, turkey sandwiches, turkey hash, or any of a number of delicious dishes. One of the biggest complaints I hear is that turkey becomes dry after refrigerating or freezing it. That isn’t necessary if you’ll just take a few minutes to steam the leftover turkey before putting it away for another time.

Here’s a simple method I use:
• Cover the bottom of a roasting pan with approximately 1/2 inch of water. You may add 1 cup of turkey stock for additional flavor.
• Layer the sliced turkey in the pan.
• Cover the pan with a sheet of aluminum foil.
• Bake in a 350 degree oven for approximately 30 minutes.
• Remove the turkey from the oven and let it cool before sealing it in zip-lock bags.
• You may refrigerate the turkey, and it will be good for up to 3 days or you may freeze it for up to six weeks.



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Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Roasting a Turkey


Roasting a turkey isn’t difficult, but it does require some basic math skills. Remember that a stuffed turkey will take longer to reach the desired temperature than an unstuffed turkey.

Simple steps:
• Before you roast a turkey, remove the bag of giblets from the cavity.
• Rinse the turkey and pat it dry.
• Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up.
• Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest section of the thigh.
• Brush the turkey skin with oil or butter to help it develop a rich color as it roasts.
• Place the turkey in a 325 degree oven.
• The turkey is done when the thermometer registers 180 degrees.

The general rule of thumb for the amount of time it takes to roast a turkey is approximately 20 minutes to 1/2 hour per pound, depending on the size of the turkey and whether or not it is stuffed. Start checking the thermometer 1/2 hour before you think it will be done.

Approximate times for an unstuffed turkey:
• 6 to 8 pound turkey – 2-1/2 to 3 hours
• 8 to 12 pound turkey – 3 to 4 hours
• 12 to 16 pound turkey – 4 to 5 hours
• 16 to 16 pound turkey – 5 to 5-1/2 hours
• 20 to 24 pound turkey – 5-1/2 to 6 hours


For a stuffed turkey:
• 6 to 8 pound turkey – 3 to 3-1/2 hours
• 8 to 12 pound turkey – 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 hours
• 12 to 16 pound turkey – 4-1/2 to 5-1/2 hours
• 16 to 20 pound turkey – 5-1/2 to 6 hours
• 20 to 24 pound turkey – 6 to 6-1/2 hours

Keep in mind that all ovens are different, so cooking times may vary. After you remove your turkey from the oven, allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes. Otherwise, all the juices will run out, and the turkey will seem dry.


Don't forget to enter the contest for the free autographed copy of my latest novel AND a copy of Abingdon’s Common English Bible New Testament!


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Monday, November 22, 2010

Thawing a Turkey

Knowing the proper way to thaw a turkey is essential if you want everyone to enjoy their meal and not get sick. Most frozen turkeys come with directions on the label.

Here are some basic rules and guidelines for thawing a frozen turkey:
• Never thaw a turkey at room temperature.
• Thaw your turkey in the refrigerator, allowing one day per four pounds. For example if you have a 20-lb. turkey, you’ll need to thaw it in the refrigerator for 5 days. A 10-lb. turkey will need 2-1/2 to 3 days to thaw.
• If you don’t have that much time, you may thaw your turkey in cold water. Replace the water every few hours until the turkey has thawed. Then refrigerate until time to cook it.



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Friday, November 19, 2010

CONTEST - Reminder!

I'll be repeating this post throughout the month as a reminder to enter this fabulous contest!



I am so proud to be an author for one of the most respected publishers in the CBA. In addition to the awesome fiction line that I’m part of, Abingdon Press has just released The Common English Bible New Testament. The cool thing is that it’s not a revision or an update of an existing translation; it’s a bold new translation designed specifically for Christians who desire to dig deeper into the New Testament. It’s written at a comfortable level for more than half of all English readers. I think anything that brings a heart for Jesus closer to Him through understanding of His word … Well, that’s something I can really get behind.

If you would like to have a hard copy of this amazing book, I’ve cooked up a little giveaway with Kay Strom.

Here are the simple rules for the contest:

Post a comment on one (or both!) of our blog posts about the contest that tells us your favorite scripture verse and why (in just a few sentences). At the end of November, we’ll each choose one winner at random. That winner will win an autographed copy of our latest novel AND a copy of Abingdon’s Common English Bible New Testament.

*Don’t forget to include your email address so I can contact you!*

BONUS BONUS BONUS: If that winner has posted a review of one of our novels on Christian Book Distributors, they will receive A SECOND COPY of this innovative Bible to give away to a friend. Perhaps as a Christmas gift?

It’s that simple for you to own your very own copy of Abingdon’s CEB New Testament. So let’s hear it! What’s your life verse of scripture, and why?


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Thursday, November 18, 2010

Quick Thanksgiving Decorating Tips

Candle holders – If you don’t have as many candle holders as you need, use miniature pumpkins, artichokes and other sturdy vegetables and fruits. Just carve out a hole to fit the candle snugly in the top.

Table runner – Buy an inexpensive fabric remnant in an autumn color, tuck the raw edges under, and sew or glue them down. Decorate them with ribbons or other notions from the clearance bins in a craft or fabric store.

Tablecloth – Pull out an old harvest-gold bed sheet and use it as a tablecloth. If you don’t have one, check local thrift stores.

Pillow covers – Cover decorative throw pillows with orange, gold, yellow, brown and rust colored fabrics.

Leaf accent – Purchase a bag of silk leaves and tuck them around different areas throughout your house.

Scented candles – Buy pumpkin and spice scented candles from the dollar store and place them throughout your house. You won’t even have to light them to have your house smelling like you’ve been baking all day.


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Monday, November 15, 2010

Creamy Fudge with Secret Ingredient

I used to make this fudge for my children when they were in elementary school. Until they walked in on me one day, they had no idea I had a secret ingredient.

Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup of butter
• 4 oz. Velveeta cheese
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
• 16 oz. powdered sugar
• 2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Directions:
1. Combine cocoa and powered sugar in a large mixing bowl.
2. Put butter and Velveeta cheese in a glass bowl and microwave on 50% power until it is melted. You may use a double boiler, but it’s much faster in the microwave.
3. Add the butter and cheese mixture to the cocoa and sugar.
4. Add vanilla and nuts and mix quickly.
5. Spread the mixture in a buttered or sprayed shallow 9 by 9 in. pan or dish.
6. Refrigerate until firm.
7. Cut into squares and serve.

I recommend refrigerating this fudge—that is, if you have any left. It’s creamy and delicious, and no one will guess there’s cheese in it!


Don't forget to enter the contest for the free autographed copy of my latest novel AND a copy of Abingdon’s Common English Bible New Testament!


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Friday, November 12, 2010

CONTEST - Reminder!

I'll be repeating this post throughout the month as a reminder to enter this fabulous contest!

I am so proud to be an author for one of the most respected publishers in the CBA. In addition to the awesome fiction line that I’m part of, Abingdon Press has just released The Common English Bible New Testament. The cool thing is that it’s not a revision or an update of an existing translation; it’s a bold new translation designed specifically for Christians who desire to dig deeper into the New Testament. It’s written at a comfortable level for more than half of all English readers. I think anything that brings a heart for Jesus closer to Him through understanding of His word … Well, that’s something I can really get behind.

If you would like to have a hard copy of this amazing book, I’ve cooked up a little giveaway with Kay Strom.

Here are the simple rules for the contest:

Post a comment on one (or both!) of our blog posts about the contest that tells us your favorite scripture verse and why (in just a few sentences). At the end of November, we’ll each choose one winner at random. That winner will win an autographed copy of our latest novel AND a copy of Abingdon’s Common English Bible New Testament.

*Don’t forget to include your email address so I can contact you!*

BONUS BONUS BONUS: If that winner has posted a review of one of our novels on Christian Book Distributors, they will receive A SECOND COPY of this innovative Bible to give away to a friend. Perhaps as a Christmas gift?

It’s that simple for you to own your very own copy of Abingdon’s CEB New Testament. So let’s hear it! What’s your life verse of scripture, and why?




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Thursday, November 11, 2010

Simple Thanksgiving Centerpiece Ideas



Fill a punchbowl with varying sizes of pumpkins, squashes and gourds. For more color, add sprigs of greenery.

Nest a group of orange, red, and cream colored candles on a large platter. Sprinkle a selection of nuts around the base.

For a touch of whimsy, make a pinecone turkey centerpiece by tucking some colorful feathers into the wide end of a pinecone. Cut a teardrop shape out of brown construction paper and add wiggly eyes for the face. Glue it to the smaller end of the pinecone. Cut a smaller yellow teardrop shape and glue it to the face for the beak.

Monday, November 8, 2010

Deadline Dinner – Shrimp Scampi

Many shrimp scampi recipes are complicated, but this one is so easy your kids can probably make it without any help from you.

Ingredients:
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds medium uncooked shrimp
• 1/2 cup of garlic or lemon spice marinade
• 1/2 cup of chopped onions

Directions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet.
2. Add the shrimp and marinade and cook until the shrimp turn pink. You’ll want to stir it to make sure they cook evenly.
3. Add the onions and stir until they are translucent.

Serve the shrimp scampi over rice or pasta. Add a tossed salad and a side of bread for a quick and easy nutritious meal.



Don't forget to enter the contest for the free autographed copy of my latest novel AND a copy of Abingdon’s Common English Bible New Testament!


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Friday, November 5, 2010

CONTEST - Reminder!

I'll be repeating this post throughout the month as a reminder to enter this fabulous contest!

I am so proud to be an author for one of the most respected publishers in the CBA. In addition to the awesome fiction line that I’m part of, Abingdon Press has just released The Common English Bible New Testament. The cool thing is that it’s not a revision or an update of an existing translation; it’s a bold new translation designed specifically for Christians who desire to dig deeper into the New Testament. It’s written at a comfortable level for more than half of all English readers. I think anything that brings a heart for Jesus closer to Him through understanding of His word … Well, that’s something I can really get behind.

If you would like to have a hard copy of this amazing book, I’ve cooked up a little giveaway with Kay Strom.

Here are the simple rules for the contest:

Post a comment on one (or both!) of our blog posts about the contest that tells us your favorite scripture verse and why (in just a few sentences). At the end of November, we’ll each choose one winner at random. That winner will win an autographed copy of our latest novel AND a copy of Abingdon’s Common English Bible New Testament.

*Don’t forget to include your email address so I can contact you!*

BONUS BONUS BONUS: If that winner has posted a review of one of our novels on Christian Book Distributors, they will receive A SECOND COPY of this innovative Bible to give away to a friend. Perhaps as a Christmas gift?

It’s that simple for you to own your very own copy of Abingdon’s CEB New Testament. So let’s hear it! What’s your life verse of scripture, and why?


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Thursday, November 4, 2010

Holiday Tips and Recipes






Starting next week, I plan to add quick and simple holiday tips and recipes. I'll offer some of my favorite helpful hints that I've learned over the years. If you have suggestions, please send me an email at debby@debbymayne.com. My goal is to share ways to simplify lives that have become crazy-busy yet still enjoy some of the fun aspects of the holiday season.

I'll bring you some recipes, decorating tips, gift ideas, and other holiday hints that won't cost a fortune or take all day. You'll still have plenty of time to spend with family and friends.

Don't forget to enter the contest for the free autographed copy of my latest novel AND a copy of Abingdon’s Common English Bible New Testament!


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Monday, November 1, 2010

Deadline Dinner – Pizza Salad

Your kids will willingly eat their veggies if you serve them in a pizza salad. You may substitute any of the ingredients for your favorite pizza toppings. Most grocery store produce departments offer washed and cut veggies that will make the preparation a breeze!

Ingredients:
• 1 bag of washed and torn romaine lettuce
• 1 cup each of broccoli, bell peppers, onions, fresh mushrooms and sliced pepperoni or Canadian bacon
• 1 cup of shredded cheese
• 4 tortillas
• 1 cup of red Italian sauce

Directions:
1. Mix the lettuce, other vegetables, and cheese in a large bowl.
2. Pour the Italian sauce into a serving bowl and place on the table.
3. Give each family member a tortilla to make their own individual pizzas.


You and your family can eat the salad and use the tortillas as a side of bread, roll the salad into the tortillas, or place the salad on top of the tortillas and eat them open face.


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