Be of Good Cheer!

(photo courtesy of Christmasgifts.com)

At Christmas play and make good cheer, for Christmas comes but once a year.

-Thomas Tusser

The Christmas spirit is everywhere and with only 11 days until Christmas, it grows with each passing day. If you are not welcoming the spirit of Christmas into your heart, it's about time you had! Put away the troubles of the day and the negativity that surrounds our daily lives. Be of good cheer and embrace this season of love, warmth, and miracles.

Love,

Neah B

A miserable heart means a miserable life; a cheerful heart fills the day with song

Proverbs 15:15

"The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear"

- Buddy, Elf (2003)

A cheerful disposition is good for your health;
gloom and doom leave you bone-tired.

Proverbs 17:22

"If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world."

-J.R.R Tolkien

And that's about it, friends. Be cheerful. Keep things in good repair. Keep your spirits up. Think in harmony. Be agreeable. Do all that, and the God of love and peace will be with you for sure. Greet one another with a holy embrace. All the brothers and sisters here say hello.

2 Corinthinthians 13:11

" No matter what looms ahead, if you can eat today, enjoy today, mix good cheer with friends today enjoy it and bless God." 

 -Henry Ward Beecher

Worry weighs us down; a cheerful word picks us up

Proverbs 12:25

Neah B's Smoked Salmon and Dill Quiche

It doesn't have to be a special occasion for me to make a quiche. They are fun to make and simple enough for everyday. One of the best parts of making a quiche is creating my own recipes. This one in particular is inspired by my husband. My husband not only loves when I make quiche, but also loves smoked salmon! The both of us can literally go through one package without bagels or crackers; IT'S THAT GOOD! It's even better in this melt-in-your-mouth quiche. This will certainly be a hit at your Christmas brunch....and many brunches to come.

Love,

Neah B

serves 4-6

Pie Crust

(adapted From Farm Journal's Complete Pie Cookbook, 1965) 

1 cup flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/3 cup plus 1 tbs. shortening or lard

* I use butter ;)

2-2 1/2 tbs cold water

1) Combine flour and salt in mixing bowl.Cut in shortening with pastry blender or with two knives until mixture is the consistency of coarse cornmeal or tiny peas.

2) Sprinkle on cold water, 1tbs, at a time, tossing mixture lightly and stirring  with fork. Add water each time to the driest part of mixture.The dough should be moist enough to hold together when pressed gently with a fork;not sticky.

3) Shape dough into ball and roll out onto a lightly floured surface. When dough is spread out, place into greased pie dish and form crust.

Quiche Mixture

* fresh spinach ( 2 handfuls)

*eggs (3)

*half and half or heavy whipping cream (1/2 cup)

*dill weed (2 tbs)*Applewood Smoked Sockeye Salmon (3/4 cup-1 cup)

*shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup)

1) Set oven to 375 degrees.

2)Prepare pie crust  and place into greased pie dish.

*If pressed for time you can always but them already prepared

3) Saute spinach with olive oil over medium heat for  about a 2 minutes.

4)Blend eggs,cream, and dill weed. Add cheese and blend.

5)With poultry shears, cut salmon into strips and place into egg mixture and blend once more.

6) Pour mixture into pie shell and bake for 30-35 minutes (or until middle is set). When quiche is finished, let cool for 8-10 minutes. Slice and dig in.

Favorite Festive Flicks: White Christmas (1954)

(photo courtesy cduniverse.com)

It's Christmas Eve, 1944 and the world is still at war, but that doesn't stop Captain Bob Wallace(Bing Crosby) from entertaining and lifting the spirits of his fellow troops. He and the rest of the outfit are also paying tribute and saying goodbye to their dear leader, General Waverly (Dean Jagger) who unfortunately is being replaced as the troops are moving up.

Immediately after their "slambang" finish for the general, sudden combat breaks out. Amid the chaos, Captain Wallace is almost killed by a falling brick wall until Private Phil Davis saves his life (which he constantly uses to his advantage). Expressing his gratitude, Bob says if there's anything Phil needs, just tell him. Phil's request is that when war is over,that he and Bob form a song-and-dance team. Bob reluctanly accepts and the team of Wallace and Davis is born.

In the years to follow, Wallace and Davis become a huge act and even start producing their own shows. At the close of their show in Florida (and before Christmas vacation), they are invited to the Club Novello to see a perfomance by the up-and-coming Haynes Sisters; Judy (Vera- Ellen) and Betty (Rosemary Clooney). Bob and Phil's original plan was to travel up to New York right after the show but after meeting Judy and Betty (and Phil's desperate attempts to find Bob a wife), they end up heading out to where the girls are booked; The Columbia Inn in Pinetree, Vermont.

Hoping for snow and relaxation, they find 68 degree weather and that it hasn't snowed since Thanksgiving. The 2nd suprise is the owner of the inn...General Waverly himself! He informs them that business hasn't been good. In turn Wallace and Davis,and the Haynes sisters, decide to bring their act to the inn to help the General. Everything goes well until a misunderstanding almost destroys thier Christmas miracle...and romance. 

I absolutely love this movie and try my best not to watch it outside of the holiday season...but it's so good. I first saw it during my 1st December in my own apartment. I had no cable and was searching for something to watch and White Christmas was on. From then on, I've been enchanted with this film. It's such a beautiful movie; not only storywise, but quality even by today's standards. It's filmed in technicolor. It's also Paramount's first film in Vistavision; their version of Cinemascope,Todd-A-O, Cinerama,what have you. You can see this wonderful quality of work particularly in the numbers, "Mandy", "Choreography" and "Love You Didn't Do Right By Me". And for my 50's fashion fan's, the wardrobe/costumes for this movie are too fabulous! You can thank the legendary Edith Head for that!

As far as  Irving Berlin's classic tune's, it's so hard to pick a favorite. But my favorite  Christmas moments (besides the finale) is "Snow" and "Count Your Blessings" That scene by the fireplace is so cozy and comforting...and sexy;).

 

"Count Your Blessings"

White Christmas (1954)

Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney

"May your days be merry and bright, and may all your Christmases be white"

White Christmas-Irving Berlin 

Here's to your White Christmas...

Love,

Neah B

Sparkle All The Way

The holiday season is a time for decorating, food, family and festivities.It's also time for parties and gatherings which means it's time for you, like the tree, to shine. Here are some inspirations for your ensamble to look merry and bright.

Love,

Neah B

                                                   

*Belted Sateen Crop Trench- $32.99

www.charlotterusse.com

*Bow Glitter Pumps and Rosette Ruffle Pumps-$19.99

"red belted outfit"

www.catofashions.com

*Black Cutout Sweater Dress-$22.00
www.dots.com

* Satin Pointed-Toe Pump-$30.00

www.charlotterusse.com 

*Petal Clip-On Earrings-$4.80

www.forever21.com

*Fur Collar Wool Coat-$34.80

www.dots.com

Blog Lovin'

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Christmas Breakfast/Brunch: "Homemade" Powdered Doughnuts

This recipe was inspired by an episode of Sandra Lee's Money Saving Meals in which she made Mini Apple Spiced Glazed Doughnuts. I thought that using the refrigerated biscuit dough was genius and its simplicity blew me away. Instead of the apple glaze, I made a simpler powdered version. They're light and crisp; almost reminiscent of the little sugar doughnuts at the Chinese restaurants. Once you learn how to make these, you won't stop.

Enjoy,

Neah B

Makes 4-5 servings

( recipe can be doubled by buying more cans of dough)

* vegetable or canola oil (about 2 1/2- 3 cups)

*refrigerated biscuit dough( 1 can or however many doughnuts you'd like to make)

**Don't get flaky GRANDS biscuits. You won't get the same effect. Even the cheapest brand will be just as yummy.**

*sugar (1/4 cup)

*powdered sugar (1/2 cup)

*cinnamon or nutmeg (1 tsp)

* salt (1 tsp)

1) Heat vegetable/canola oil in a frying pan.

2) Place the biscuits on a cookie sheet. With a small circular cookie cutter (or shot glass),pierce the biscuits in the center, pull out  the center pieces and set aside.

*You can make doughnut holes with them later*

3)When oil is ready, place about 4 at a time in the pan. Fry each side until golden brown (which will take less than a minute so keep your eye on them!)

4) When they are done, place on cooling rack or napkin lined cookie sheet to absorb oil.

5) Mix together sugar, powdered sugar,cinnamon/nutmeg and salt. Powder both sides of your doughnuts and place on your favorite serving plate. Enjoy!



Christmas Breakfast/Brunch: Potato Pancakes with Bacon and Onions

I truly enjoy a nice stack of pancakes (and their many variations) anytime of the year, but even more so on a cozy Winter Saturday. I found this recipe in The Great Breakfast Book  from Nordicware. The title alone was enough for me to try it and it was definitely worth it. Once you smell the aroma of those sweet onions and bacon, you'll be ready to try this savory stack too.

Enjoy,

Neah B


Serves 2 (can be doubled)

prep time: 15 min
cooking time:28
(If potatoes aren't already prepared, it'll take a little longer)


5 slices of bacon
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1 large onion,chopped,divided
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Salt, to taste
3 cups cold mashed potatoes
1 large egg
2 tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour

1) In a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat,cook bacon until crisp. Drain, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat. Crumble bacon and set aside.

2) Heat the bacon fat with 1 tablespoon of butter. Add chopped onion, reserving 2 tablespoons, and the caraway seeds. Season with salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until onions are browned, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl, cover and keep warm.

3) Mix potatoes,egg, remaining onions and crumbled bacon in a bowl until well-combined. Sprinkle flour on wax paper. Form six pancakes with the potato mixture. Lightly coat both sides with flour.

4) Melt remaining butter in skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook pancakes for about 4 minutes per side, until pancakes are lightly browned.

5) Set pancakes on paper towels to wick away excess oil. Transfer to a serving platter. Serve with the cooked onion topping.


 

Favorite Festive Flicks: In the Good Old Summertime (1949)

(photo courtesy of moviegoods.com)

Don't let the title throw you... this is a Christmas movie. In fact it is MGM's beautifully, technicolored musical remake of the 1940 classic,The Shop Around The Corner. The stage is set in turn-of- the century Chicago involving head sales clerk, Andy Larkin (Van Johnson). His bachelor life is a simple one including work at Mr. Oberkugen's (S.Z."Cuddles"Sakall) Music Store and hanging with his buddy, Hickey (played by legendary silent film star, Buster Keaton). Andy's weekly highlight,however, is receiving romantic letters from his female pen-pal.

All is well, until the pretty and driven Veronica Fisher (Judy Garland) waltzes in seeking employment. Though Andy tries to dissuade her, Veronica proves herself by selling an awkward, high-priced harp and lands the job. Now she is outselling him and stealing his thunder, but he looks past that as he will soon be meeting his lovely correspondent soon. Unfortunately, he discovers that the woman he has been eager to meet, is none other than Ms.Veronica Fisher herself! Not sure what to make of his revelation, he withholds this secret to himself . As time goes by, he continues to fall in love with face behind the letters.

                        This wonderful Holiday Romance includes a wonderful cast and songs "Put Your Arms Around Me Honey", " I Don't Care" and of course "In the Good Old Summertime". This, unfortunately, is one of the last few films Judy made with MGM, but this film will always play on In the Good Old Summertime.

Enjoy,

Neah B

Favorite Festive Flicks: Shop Around The Corner (1940)

(photo courtsey of imbd.com)

This is the story of Matuscheck and Company-of Mr.Matuscheck and the people who work for him. It is just around the corner Andrassy Street.On Balta Street, in Budapest Hungary.

-The Shop Around the Corner (1940) 

Way before You Got Mail, there was  MGM's The Shop Around the Corner. It's the story of Alfred Kralik (James Stewart); a head sales clerk at Mr. Matusceck's (Frank Morgan)leather goods shop. Alfred is "at the point in his life where he wants to improve " himself and learn about the world outside of Balta street. He can't afford the new encyclopedia that he wants, but he does however stumble across an ad that reads...

"Modern girl wishes to correspond on cultural subjects anonymously with intelligent, sympathetic young man. Address "Dear Friend." Post office 15, Box 237."

The letters from this unordinary lady with "such ideals" inspire him throughout his normal daily routine. His thoughts and normal work-life,however, are soon interrupted by Klara Novak (Margaret Sullavan); a bright and fiery young lady seeking employment ( which is the last thing Alfred or Mr. Matushceck want). But, when she sells that hard-to-sell musical cigarette box, she's hired on the spot! She and Alfred are now quarreling co-workers. This doesn't discourage him however, because he still has hope for a raise and the chance to meet his mystery girl. When the opportunity for meeting his pen-pal comes, it comes as a shock because he finds out that it is Ms. Klara Novak herself!

This is a wonderful holiday love story. You will be sure to enjoy:

* The way Mr. Matuscheck's employees support their boss when he finds out that his wife has been  having an affair.

* Pepe (William Tracy-You may recognize him from Strike up the Band, 1940) and his comedic timing and wise cracks. The scenes that are given to him alone are hilarious!

Check it out this month on TCM (and Amazon.com)

Roll Film,

Neah B

Christmas Wish #7:SNOW!

I would loooove to have snow this Holiday Season as we did last year, however with this flip-flop 6o degree weather, I'm not sure. Meanwhile, I can dream............

Snowfully Yours,

Neah B

White Cristmas (1954) finale

The Peanuts gang explain their preference in snowflakes in A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) 

"Purple Snowflakes" by Marvin Gaye (1964) 

One of my favorite numbers from White Christmas(1954), "Snow"

I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm/Jing-A-Ling by Les Brown's Orchestra and The Starlighters

(Jing-A-Ling at 2:45)

 Snow Miser from Rankin/Bass's The Year Without a Santa Claus(1974)

Early stop-motion production of Suzy Snowflake (1953)

Al Caiola & Riz Ortolani "Holiday on Skis" (1967)

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year....

(photo courtesy of graphicsfairy.blogspot.com)

Season's Greetings Darlings!

Whether you have been decking your halls, trimming your tree, perusing for presents or simply kicking back with a cup of cocoa and a classic Christmas movie, I hope this season full of miracles and memories has gotten off to a wonderful start for you!

This month at Virtuously Vintage Vixen, I will be sharing yummy holiday recipes for Christmas breakfast/brunch and dinner as well as simple, sophisticated appetizers for New Year's Eve on Tasty Tuesday's Tips and Treats. On Retro Reels weekend, I will be reviewing my Favorite Festive Films that include White Christmas, Love Finds Andy Hardy, and It's a Wonderful Life. Thursday's Thoughts and Theories on Classic Beauty, I will be discussing classically chic and simple holiday party looks. Be inspired with peace, cheer, and the review of Stormie Omartian's book, The Power of Christmas Prayer on Wednesday Wisdom.  

In the meantime, enjoy the festivities, spend time with the one's you love, and fill your heart with the spirit of Christmas. Never forget the reason for the season as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

I wish you all a Merry, Merry Christmas,

Love,

Neah B 

 For a child is born to us a son is given to us.The government will rest on his shoulders.
And he will be called:Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6



Films for Family and Friends: Meet Me in St.Louis (1944)

(photo courtesy of imdb.com)

Meet Me in St. Louis is the classic that almost wasn't! 22-year-old Judy Garland was not interested in playing another teenage role in anyone's upcoming film. However after some coaxing from exectutives and director (and future husband)Vincente Minnelli, she accepted the offer to be involved in one of the most- loved musicals of all time!

Based on the book by Sally Benson, the movie Meet Me in St. Louis tells the story of a year in the life of the Smith family living in St. Louis, Missouri during 1903-1904. All is well for this tightly-knit brood; Lon Jr. (Henry  H.Daniels Jr.), the only Smith boy, has been accepted to study at Princeton University. Rose (Lucielle Bremer) has a few potential suitors, but has her heart set on Warren Sheffield (Robert Sully). Esther (Judy Garland) is busy capturing the eyes and heart of John Truitt (Tom Drake), the boy next door. Agnes and Tootie are the younger yet more brazen of the Smith clan who enjoy creating mild mischief.  Wisecracking Grandpa(Harry Davenport), no-nonsense Kate (Marjorie Main) and mother/wife Anna (Mary Astor) are the backbone at home while Alonzo (Leon Ames) keeps his family provided for. Everything is looking up for the Smith family until, Alonzo comes home with the news that he's been promoted and will be moving the family to New York; away from the friends and familiarity they've always known. This dissheartning news comes right before the holidays....and The World's Fair.

Meet Me in St. Louis  is a classic musical that:

* Showcases one of Judy's best performances

* Is best known for, "The Trolly Song"

* Intoduced the world to one of the most well-known holiday tunes,

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." 

* Has the best, and my favorite, rendition of "Skip to my Lou".

* Illustrates family and a simpler time in turn-of -the century America.

*You will surely love

Enjoy,

Neah B

Open House

Use hospitality one to another without grudging.

1 Peter 4:9

(picture courtesy of ipadforums.net)

As you all know, tomorrow is not only Thanksgiving but the kickoff of "The Holiday Season".

Friends and family will be arriving by the droves. It's time for opening your home and welcoming your guests with warmth and seasonal salutations. Let laughter and the smell of comfort food fill the air along with your favorite holiday tunes and shows. No matter how humble your home is, as long as it is clean and filled with holiday spirit you will make Thanksgiving and many holidays to come memorable for all who enter your abode.

"The joyous spirit of the season radiates from the home, where family and friends gather for fun and food."

-Celebrate the Holidays with Campbell Soup Company (1990)

"...Your home reflects who you are. When people leave your home, the should leave with a sense of knowing something they didn't know about you before. When people walk into your apartment or house, their mood should change.The atmosphere of your home should reflect peace and well -being. People should sense the presence of God in your home. It should be an oasis for thirsty,weary souls."

-The Power of being a Woman by Michelle Mckinney Hammond (2004)


Happy Thanksgiving,
Neah B

Homemade Cheddar Biscuits (a.k.a "Red Lobster Biscuits")

A definite favorite of mine to make and a favorite of all who come to dinner.

Whether you choose to make them as drop biscuits or roll them out, they are simple to make.

You may use your favorite biscuit recipe; I usually use the White Lilly Flour recipe but I decided to use the Clabber Girl Baking Powder recipe.

Hope you enjoy wour very own "Red Lobster Biscuits"

Love,

Neah B

Serve 8-10

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 tsp Clabber Girl Baking Powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/3 cup shortening
3/4 cup milk

1-2 cup cheddar shredded cheese
4 Tbs butter or margarine melted
2 tsp garlic powder or miced garlic
a few shakes of dried parsley, basil, or oregano

1) In a medium mixing bowl stir together flour baking powder and salt.
2) Using a pastry blender, cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3) Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Add the milk all at once. Using a a fork,
stir just until moistened and dough pulls away from the bowl (dough will be sticky).

* Add cheese and mix
* From here you can proceed to make drop biscuits by scooping small portions onto a lightly greased baking sheet and bake  at 475 degrees for 11-15 minutes

4) On a floured surface, lightly knead dough with floured hands for 30 seconds or until nearly smooth. Lightly roll to 3/4 inch thickness. Cut dough with a 2 1/2 inch biscuit cutter, dipping cutter into flour between cuts.

5) Place biscuits close together on a lightly greased baking sheet on 475 degrees for 11-15 minutes until golden brown.

* While biscuits are baking, place butter,garlic, and herbs into a small bowl and melt togther in microwave or in sauce pan over low heat. Brush butter mixture on buscuits when the are finished.
Serve and enjoy!

Sweet Potato Cheesecake

While perusing for a new addition for this years Thanksgiving recipe repetoire, I ran across this holiday  dessert worthy of trying. I  will be preparing this Sweet Potato Cheesecake recipe from the booklet Celebrate The Holidays with Campbell Soup Company (1990). I have a feeling that this will be a new favorite and I hope it will be for you too.

Love,

Neah B

Makes 16 servings

1 package (12 oz) Mrs. Paul's frozen candied candied sweet potatoes (or 2 small sweet potatoes)

1 1/2 cups light cream

2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 22 crackers)

1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted

1/2 cup sugar, divided

3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 eggs

1/2 teaspoon grated orange peel

Optional:

Whipped cream, mint leaves, candied violets, cranberries,

 orange peel and sugared rose petals for garnish

1) Prepare sweet potatoes according to packages directions; cool slightly.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In covered blender or food processor,combine cooked

sweet potatoes and cream. Set aside.

2) In small bowl, combine crumbs, butter and 1/4 cup of the sugar. Press mixture firmly onto bottom and 2 inches up sides of 9-inch springform  pan.

3) In large bowl with mixer at medium speed, beat cream cheese, vanilla and remaining sugar until

light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until smooth, scraping bowl. Add pureed sweet potato mixture and orange peel; beat until smooth. Pour into crumb crust; place on jelly-roll pan.

4) Bake 60 to 70 minutes or until center is just set. Cool on wire rack. Cover; refrigerate at least

8 hours. Garnish with the garnishes suggested above.

TIP: To make sugared rose petals, brush pesticide-free rose petals with lightly beaten egg white and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Let dry on wire racks for a few hours. Store in airtight containers.



Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce...from scratch!

I always wanted to make fresh cranberry sauce...and I finally did!

It's rediculously good and so simple to make you may not go back to canned!There are so many variations but I went with this one from Ocean Spray and its absolute heaven. Enjoy this homemade holiday staple from scratch.

Love,

Neah B

Makes 2 1/4

1 cup water

1 cup sugar

1 12oz package Ocean Spray fresh or frozen cranberries

1) Bring water and sugar to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add cranberries and return to a boil.

2) Reduce heat and boil gently for 10 minutes,stirring occasionally. Pour sauce into a bowl, cover and cool completely at room temperature.

3)Pour sauce into a bowl, cover and cool completely at room temperature.

4) Refrigerate until serving time.

To make jellied cranberry sauce...

Prepare as directed above. Before cooling, place a wire mesh strainer into mixing bowl. Pour contents of saucepan into strainer into. Mash berries with back of spoon, frequently scraping the outside of the strainer until no pulp is left. Stir contents of bowl. Pour into serving container. Cover and cool.

Note: I was able to use a regular collander over a mixing bowl. I also used a potato masher, mashed all the berries and returned them to the mixing bowl and comined all the contents for a rich sauce.



Films for Family and Friends: Little Women (1949)

(photo courtesy of allposters.com)

Jo- the aspiring author and determined tomboy (June Allyson). Amy-the glamorous drama queen and socialite- in- training (Elizabeth Taylor). Meg- the smart and lovely domestic diva (Janet Leigh). And Beth- the sweet petite pianist (Margret O' Brien). These are the March sisters; Growing into little women as they and thier mother Marmie (Mary Astor) hold down the fort while their father is fighting in the Civil War.

With all the changes brought on by the war, the girls (like the rest of the nation at that time) hope that life will return to the way it was. However, as inevitable as it is, time goes about its business and life progresses...especially for the March Family. Of all the girls, Jo takes it the hardest that nothing will ever be the same. She even pushes away Laurie (Peter Lawford), a dear friend who has fallen in love with her, just to avoid change in the relationship and their lives. Little does she realize, fighting change does not prevent it. Jo soon discovers that when you try to avoid life's alterations, you risk missing the good things to come...especially love. 

Enjoy this beautiful rendition of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel. The film is so charming and enjoyable at anytime of the year, but it (like hot cocoa) is most soothing during the holidays and winter months.Grab a blanket, turn on the Christmas lights and curl up with Little Women.

Happy Viewing,
Neah B

Films for Family and Friends: Four Daughters (1938)

(picture courtesy of eMoviePoster.com)

Four Daughters is the first installment of this Warner Bros. Classic Trilogy (Four Daughters, Four Wives, and Four Mothers) that has quickly become a new favorite series of mine! This wonderfully written story by Fannie Hurst called Sister Act made its way to Cosmopolitan Magazine and onto the big screen.

Four Daughters tells the tale of the musically talented Lemp family. Adam Lemp (Claude Raines) is a dean at the local Musical Foundation. He is also the stuffy, old- fashioned yet loving father and conductor of his beautiful quartet of equally talented daughters; Kay-Angelic Vocals (Rosemary Lane), Emma-Harp (Gale Page), Thea-Piano (Lola Lane) and Ann-Violin (Priscilla Lane). And of course, you have Aunt Etta (May Robson) who helps her brother Adam keep his head together.

Their usual routine is suddenly interrupted when Felix Deetz (Jeffrey Lynn), a young composer and fellow colleague at The Musical Foundation,comes to live with them.Felix is handsome, charming, talented, and kindhearted... and has smitten all of the Lemp sisters! However the one he has his marital sights on is Ann.When they announce their engagement and wedding plans, more surprises and changes come along...for better...and worse. Despite these changes, nothing can change the love and strength between Adam Lemp and his four daughters.

You will certainly enjoy this great, engaging, and unpredictable story of love and family.

What I like best is that they kept the same fabulous cast throughout the series and 3 of the 4 daughters (as you can tell by their last names) are real-life sisters! You can find this film and the rest of the series on Amazon.com and TCM.com.

Happy Viewing,

Neah B

And We're Back......

As you can see, I took a small break from the blogging/publishing world.With the birth of my nephew Jacoby and a long overdue visit from my dear Grandmother, I took a much needed break. But now I resume my duty to give you the best in vintage culture and inspiration.

Love,

Neah B 



Give Thanks, Give You

Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go.
Mother Teresa

A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

Proverbs 11:25

Thanksgiving (along with Christmas and New Years) is fast approaching. Although its a time of thankfulness and counting the blessings given to us, we often neglect the "giving" part of Thanksgiving. Like Chirstmas, Thanksgiving is about giving gifts, but of a different kind. This season give your kindness, your love, your thoughtfulness, your helping hand,or....YOURSELF.

Just your time, your presence or the sound of your voice will speak volumes to those who haven't seen you in awhile. So send a card, call them up or just show up!

I myself, experienced that today. My Grandmother Charlotte, who lives clear across the country, literally showed up on our doorstep! She was just going to send money but decided it was more important to send the give the gift of herself. She refused to miss the birth of her first great-grandson.

Along with the gift of self, don't forget to contribute to making someone else's holiday special by giving to shelters, donating food or time to serve food to those who won't have the bountiful feast that you have.

Give thanks, Give You, Give Love,

Neah B

The first year my husband and I held Thanksgiving at our home, I decided I wanted a different twist on standard stuffing. After much research, I hit the jackpot when searching the archives (November 2004) at http://www.cookinglight.com/. I loved the mushroom and sausage concept and thought that it would be a hit and it certainly was! I have been in love eversince! Hope you will be too!

Love,

Neah B

Herbed Bread Stuffing with Mushrooms and Sausage

Becky Luigart-Stayner; Melanie J. Clarke

Making your own bread cubes is easy and yields delicious results. You can prepare the toasted bread cubes two to three days before Thanksgiving; store at room temperature in a zip-top plastic bag. If there's space in the oven, bake the stuffing while the turkey roasts. Otherwise, bake it in the morning, and reheat it while the turkey stands.

Ingredients 

• 1 1/2 pounds peasant-style white bread
• 4 (4-ounce) links sweet turkey Italian sausage 
• 2 teaspoons butter
• 1 pound cremini mushrooms, quartered
• Cooking spray
• 2 cups chopped onion 
• 1 1/4 cups chopped carrot 
• 1 1/4 cups chopped celery 
• 1/2 cup minced fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh sage
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 
• 2 large eggs
• 1 (14-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth

Preparation

• Preheat oven to 400°.
• Trim crust from bread. Cut bread into 1 1/2-inch cubes. Arrange bread cubes in a single layer on 2 jelly-roll pans. Bake at 400° for 10 minutes or until toasted.
• Reduce oven temperature to 350°.
• Cook sausage in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat 10 minutes, browning on all sides. Remove from pan; cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices.

Melt butter in skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms; sauté 4 minutes. Combine bread cubes, sausage, and mushrooms in a large bowl.

Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add onion, carrot, and celery; sauté 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Add parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper; sauté 1 minute. Add to bread mixture. Combine eggs and broth, stirring with a whisk. Add to bread mixture; toss to coat. Spoon into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 45 minutes or until browned.

Diane Morgan, Cooking Light
NOVEMBER 2004

Grandma Carol's Corn Cassarole

This is not an original recipe,but it is my grandmother's take on it and it has always been a staple dish for just about every holiday and many a Sunday dinner (and weeknight dinner too!) eversince I can remember. Hope you enjoy this soft, golden, buttery treat.

Love,

Neah B.

Serves 8-10

Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix (2 boxes)

eggs (2)

milk (1/3 cup)

cream corn (1 can)

sour cream ( 8 oz container)

butter (1/2 stick)

Tip: Because this is not traditional cornbread, don't worry about it not being firm in the middle.

If you place a toothpick in the center of the casserole at the end of your 20-25 minutes and it doesn't come out clean that means you're on the right track. However, it should not be soupy either; So if your toothpick doesn't pierce anything, let it bake a little longer!

1) Preheat oven 425 degrees. Grease your favorite  pie dish or 9 x 12 casserole dish.

2) Blend Jiffy Mix, eggs, and milk.

3) Add cream corn, sour cream, and butter. Mix well.

4) Pour batter into greased casserole.Spread evenly and place into oven for about 20-25 minutes.

5) Take out to cool.If you'd like, you can spread 2 tbs of butter across the top of your golden beauty.

6) Cut a square (or triangle) and let it melt in your mouth!

Bring on the Food!

We are getting close to the time of the "Great Feast"!

Hope you're inspired these fun food clips....

Rosemary Clooney " Come on a my House"

1951.

Bing Crosby and Jane Wyman singing "In the cool cool cool of the evening" from the movie

 Here Comes The Groom

"Cheesecake" by Louis Armstrong

"A Knife, a Fork, and a Spoon" from the movie Pot O' Gold

Enjoy,

Neah B

Films for Family and Friends: Pot O' Gold (1941)

(photo courtesy of Wikipedia.com)

Jimmy Haskel (James Stewart) is truly content living his life as the heir and owner of his father's small town music store. However, his bubble is soon burst when his Uncle Charlie (Charles Winneger) blows into his shop telling him that he's wasting his time in "this whistle stop". He also feels that because he and Jimmy are the last of the Haskel name, they should carry it on in his healthfood business, not music. Uncle Charlie offers Jimmy a pot o' gold if he were to "stop chasing rainbows" and work for him. If that isn't enough, he is then served papers to pay rent (that he doesn't have) and is forced to close up shop.

Charlie Haskel further complicates things because because of his distaste in music.The McCorkle Boarding Home (which is next door to Haskel Health Food factory) is home to a fledling swing band accused (by Uncle Charlie of course) of "disturbing the peace". He not only wants to get rid of them, but buy the McCorkle property to expand his factory. Little does he know, his nephew Jimmy is a resident of this loud but loving home, has joined forces with the band and has fallen in love with in-house singer Molly McCorkle (Paulette Goddard).

Pot O' Gold is one of the first musicals my Mom introduced me to when I was 7 years old. I still enjoy the music, but most of all I enjoy the love and commradade of the bandmates, the McCorkle family, and Jimmy and vice versa. Although they weren't a literal family they stuck together as such. Join the battle for love and music in Pot O' Gold. 

Roll Film,

Neah B