Summer Squash, Corn and Bacon Chowder

I finally took some time over the weekend to go through all of the recipes I've ripped out of Food Network Magazine, Cooking Light and Rachael Ray Magazine over the past three years. I probably have about 300 recipes but only 100 of them are filed in a binder. I'm sure I'll never get around to trying every recipe (or even filing the rest of the recipes), but you never know what kind of recipe an occasion or event will call for.

Summer Strawberry Sour Cream Pie

So you may have noticed (or maybe you haven't), that I've been MIA from the blog and social networking world for a few months. It's not because I don't like to blog or tweet or obsessively stalk Instagram, it's just that the past two months have been filled with some big life changes. After four years as a communications coordinator for a membership association in Harrisburg, I decided it was time for a career change. I liked my job and I loved the people that I worked with, but I wasn't going anywhere and I needed a challenge. So, I said goodbye to Harrisburg and said hello to a new career in public relations for the largest healthcare system in central and northeastern Pennsylvania. It turns out I wasn't the only one who needed a change and within the same week, Will took a new job in electrical engineering. So, together we packed up the dogs and made the move to his hometown of Mifflinburg.

Peanut Butter Chia Seed Cookies

Let me introduce you to my newest little friends - chia seeds. And because I know you're wondering, yes, chia as in the pet. Not only can these little seeds grow a lush head of green hair, but they also are considered a superfood, high in fiber, protein and omega-3s. One of the most versatile seeds of its kind, chia seeds can be used in baked goods, drinks or puddings or used to add a crunch to salads. When added to liquids, chia seeds can expand to 10x their size and have a gelatinous texture, almost like tapioca. Since they're said to be most nutritious in their gel form, I've been adding chia seeds to my greek yogurt for some added nutrition, or to a class of orange juice.

Birthday Cake Chex Mix

I love chex mix. Whether it's sweet or savory, I can't keep myself from reaching for a big handful of it at a party. My favorite chex mix has always been the chocolate peanut butter muddy buddies or puppy chow as some people call it. A unique twist on muddy buddies, I found this recipe for cake batter flavored chex mix on Pinterest and decided to whip it up for a friend's birthday cookout. Being for a birthday party, I decided to dub it Birthday Cake Chex Mix to fit the occasion.