Bountiful Pantry and Fun Goodies and Gifts

 Hello all.  Getting a little later start this morning - last night was pretty much a no sleep kind of night.  I need to keep busy today and not nap - so I can sleep good tonight!  I sure hope you are well and safe this Thursday.

It was 48*F when I got up this morning - going to a big high of 49* today!  LOL

Last evening a big old storm blew in, and we had lots of really hard rain, hail, thunderstorms, and wind.  Luckily the kitties had their dinner over, and I had just come in.  Bits hid - he does not like the noises anymore!

Boy oh boy, are there some leaves down this morning!  UGH.  Had it looking decent last evening - well, now the ground is covered more than ever.  I will wait a few days on these - as we have more windy days ahead.

I had to laugh this morning when feeding the cats.  They were all waiting, then after all the yelling at me, they ate, and most walked across the sidewalk and climbed back into the doghouse.  They are experiencing cold and weather they aren't used to!  Going back to bed sounds good!

Indeed - we are so fortunate.  There is someone somewhere that would think each and every one of us is rich.  

I have to show something before I get started - it makes me smile and tastes so good still.

I took this picture yesterday!  I have at least that many more (prob. more) still ripening!  What a tasty blessing.

I have found some new recipes that I am going to make for the holidays this year.  I have one that will be made for my gift baskets, and others for yummies when family is around.

Yep, this is happening along with the grape jelly.  It sounds so darn yummy and very easy to make.  No pectin needed, and less sugar than my jelly recipes.  I think this will be a hit with the family.

I always make cookies, brownies, and cinnamon rolls when the family comes for Christmas - this year I am doing a new cookie and a different presentation of the rolls.

Cinnamon rolls - place in a pattern of a tree before baking.  You can use homemade rolls or canned.

Drizzle with your icing and I think I may add something else.  Maybe sprinkles or cherry pieces here and there just to brighten it up.  How fun?!!

Definitely doing these as well - and kind of making my own style of fig "newtons".  I will be using fig jam - I think this will be so tasty.  Super easy and you could use any kind of jam or preserves that you have.

Now here is a fun idea for breakfast, coffee, brunch or just a dessert.

I am a huge fan of jelly filled donuts - by far my favorites.  I also like hot biscuits (scones) and jelly.  I think this is the best of both worlds.  Make jelly filled donuts from biscuits!!!!!

You can make your own biscuits from scratch as well - if you choose.  Any type of jelly you have or like.

Oh my goodness, my mouth waters thinking about them!

*************

Now is the time to be watching for deals here in the U.S. with the Thanksgiving sales starting up.  There are many stores that are having dinner deals that can be purchased.  Like entire meal ingredients for the family for around $25 or $35. (feeds several)

I am starting to see local stores advertising turkeys cheaply.  Lowest I have seen so far is .48/lb.  That is cheap meat!!!!  You can't even think about buying cold cuts for that price.  It truly pays to buy an extra or 2 for eating during the next year.

Sweet potatoes, potatoes, cranberries, baking goods, celery, turkeys, breads and rolls, and even a lot of canned or frozen items will be on sale.  NOW is the time to stock up and prepare for the colder months ahead.

Have you found any great deals on turkey day foods yet?  The day is closer than we want to think about!

Let's get creative and fun with the holidays this year.

Have a wonderful day ahead.

Daily gratitude:  I am so thankful for the joy and happiness my sweet fur babies give me.  Thankful they are healthy and happy.  Life would be so boring without them all.  All God's creatures!!!!!