Mickey Mouse First Birthday Party

As I was going through pictures on my phone, I came across my son's first birthday pictures.  I thought I would share his first birthday party since his second birthday party is next month.  I know "nana" will enjoy seeing them since she is in another state.  My youngest son loved his Mickey Mouse party.  Here are just a few things on the Mickey Mouse themed menu.

I used a retired Mickey Mouse Wilton pan I found on ebay.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

These are so easy to make.  I found this recipe in an old cookbook my mother had given me when I went to college.  You will need 1/2 cup peanut butter, 3 tablespoons butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, and about 8 ounces of chocolate flavored candy coating (I used Wilton's candy melts).

Peppermint Candy Cane Bark

I love making candy for Christmas.  I especially enjoy making candy that my three-year-old can help me with.  His job today was smashing the candy canes.  I am not a professional candy maker, so I try and find recipes that are easy and tasty.  This recipe definitely fits both requirements.

Pete the Cat

My three-year-old keeps talking abut "Pete the Cat."  I had no idea who or what he was talking about.  After researching, I found several books his teachers are reading to him in preschool.  I found some videos that went along with some of the books they are reading and thought I would share with any other mommies out there who have a toddler who is obsessed with Pete the Cat.  I guess I know what my toddler will be getting for Christmas.

Vanilla Granola

My family and I enjoy our fair share of granola.  I eat it mixed with my yogurt for breakfast.  It's also good warm on ice cream or sprinkled over baked fruit for an added crunch.  My three year old loves it as a snack.  My husband usually has a cup with a glass of milk before bed.  Before discovering this recipe, I was spending $4-$5 for a bag of granola.  Now, I make this weekly and put it in a plastic bag for the week.  I have most ingredients readily available, so it makes it simple.  

You will need honey, cinnamon, pure vanilla, sliced almonds, quick oatmeal, and vegetable oil.

Homemade Maple Syrup

This is a quick recipe when you are in need of some maple syrup for pancakes, waffles, or other breakfast items. I found myself out of syrup one morning and my son wanted pancakes (again). I had remembered my mother-in-law making it when we were visiting and it tasted great so I thought I would give it a try. Now, I don't buy syrup. I usually have all the items in my pantry so I just make it and then store it in the refrigerator.  

Pumpkin Pancakes

It's that time of the year when I like pumpkin everything.  Pumpkin flavored coffee, bread, candles, you name it.  So, this morning when my 3-year-old asked for his usual breakfast consisting of pancakes.  I thought why not?  Let's make them pumpkin.  

Ingredients:  Milk, Brown Sugar, Ground Ginger, Ground Cloves, Ground Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Egg, Vegetable Oil, Vinegar, and Bisquick.