Nothing says Happy Memorial Day like...

new boat shoes!!!

So I have noticed my blog has become all about my sweet Hayes. I'm sure everyone enjoys this....however, I have a new topic tonight!

I recently did a magazine purge in my life. At one point, I was subscribed to 8 different magazines. Where are they now? Stacked in corners of my house. I decided it wasn't fair to the environment...or my housekeeping to continue this trend. Eventually, I hope to have a Nook or Kindle that I can read my magazines on. Until then, I am sticking with 2. Food Network Magazine and Better Homes and Gardens. I love BHG! It always has simple recipes and realistic home decor ideas. My mom introduced me to FNM and it is my most favorite source for recipes (besides The Pioneer Woman, of course). FNM has a fun feature every month called "Mix & Match." In this section, you start with one dish and pick from a variety of ingredients to make the final product to your liking. June's dish was Pasta Salad...and we made an amazing one! We actually doubled the recipe and ate it for several meals throughout the week. I loved this dish because it is cold and perfect for warm weather. It's also easy to make!

Make Your Own Pasta Salad:

1. Start with 1/2 lb of pasta. 

[We used Fusilli]

2. Add 1 cup protein, if you wish.

[We used diced ham. Other options...chicken, shrimp, eggs]

3. Add 2 cups of vegetables!

[We used corn and asparagus. Blanch vegetables for best results*]

4. Add 1/2 cup of any mix-in you like.

[We added sundried tomatoes. Other options...olives, cheese, nuts]

5. Add your dressing. We made a Creamy Parmesan.

Mix 1/4 cup mayo, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tbsp lemon juice, minced garlic, 3/4 cup parmesan and salt and pepper to taste.

Once you have mixed all of your ingredients, chill for 3 hours. And done!

*To blanch vegetables, boil until crisp-tender, then drain and cool in ice water

Enjoy your week! And enjoy this face...it makes me smile.